bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a Problematic Canon: Indian Poetry Anthologies and the Construction of Modernism
Authors:   Department of English, Tezpur University, Karam Benjamin
Published: September 2023

The history of modern Indian poetry in English as evidenced in anthologies is riddled with many modernist tendencies, both linguistic and political. Within anthologies, poetry becomes not merely literary and artistic pieces, but agents in a larger narrative. To establish an argument for Indian poetic modernism (post-1950) in anthologies requires an inquiry into the processes in which editors, through the paratextual matters, (titles, prefaces, introductory notes, headnotes, endnotes etc.) help create a persuasiveness about newness or modernity. With more than 200 Indian poetry anthologies published since 1950, there is also the problem of selecting an authoritative volume that reflects the national canon. By juxtaposing Gérard Genette’s (1991) paratextual theory and Ramond Williams’ (1977) epochal theory of classifying the dominant, residual, and emergent cultural tendencies, this paper attempts to understand poetry anthologies as commodities and cultural vehicles constantly striving for dominance. An argument is made that any canon – modernist or otherwise – is a sub-product of this cultural and material struggle. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to provide an alternate understanding of the arrival of modern Indian English poetry canon as a form of construction that occurs within the pages of anthologies.
Socio-cultural practices and stress among working mothers of underage children in the Public Universities of Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Social Work, University of Nigeria, Nsukka., Nwadike Ngozi Christina , Okpa John Thompson ,   Department of Sociology, University of Calabar, Nigeria, Ofem Nnana Okoi ,   Department of Social Work, University of Calabar, Nigeria, Ajah Benjamin Okorie ,   Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Chinweze Uzochukwu Chukwuka ,   Social Sciences Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Theresa Isife, Chima ,   Institute for Development Studies, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria
Published: September 2023

The study examined the sociocultural factors that bring about stress to working mothers of underage children at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka by recruiting 504 academic and non-academic staff. To assess the study variables in a cross-sectional survey, a questionnaire, and an in-depth interview schedule were employed in collecting data from working mothers of underage children in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The Chi-square (?2) statistical analysis indicated that there is a significant relationship between the husband’s attitude towards domestic duties and the stressful experience of working mothers with underage children. The data also demonstrated that there is no statistically significant relationship between the husband’s educational status and the stressful experience of working mothers with underage children. The study concluded that the husband’s attitude is a significant predictor of working mothers of underage children’s stress experience. It was, therefore, recommended that policies should be enacted by the Nigerian government and enforced in public sectors to enhance ‘favorable’ working conditions for working mothers of underage children. This should include an extension of maternity leave to at least six months, less demanding/accommodative job times, and assigned duties in tunes that do not compromise the ethos of a given profession.
Urban flood numerical modeling and hydraulic performance of a drainage network: A case study in Algiers, Algeria
Authors: Lameche El khansa , Boutaghane Hamouda , Saber Mohamed , Abdrabo Karim I. , Bermad A. Malek , Djeddou Messsoud , Boulmaiz Tayeb , Kantoush Sameh A. , Sumi Tetsuya
Published: September 2023

Urban sewer system management is challenging due to its higher vulnerability to flooding caused by rapid urbanization and climate change. For local decision-makers, storm water management is essential for urban planning and development. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to develop a numerical model for the sewerage network of the central catchment area of Algiers since it has experienced frequent overflows during the winter season. For this purpose, to model the sewerage networks, the model was built by coupling ArcGIS with MIKE URBAN. Its calibration and validation were performed using real-time measurements with a time step of 15 min. The model was evaluated by several statistical indicators, such as the coefficient of determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), root mean square error (RMSE), and percent bias (PBIAS). The model results showed acceptable model performance, with an NSE superior to 0.50, R2 of approximately 0.63, RMSE of 7%, and PBIAS of 10% during the validation of the model. The performance parameters prove the reliability of the developed model. The employed model can be applied in other regions and could be helpful for policymakers and managers to improve flood mitigation measures based on the model prediction of the sewerage network.
O protocolo prisma 2020 como uma possibilidade de roteiro para revisão sistemática em ensino de ciências
Authors: Marcondes Renato , Da Silva Silvio Luiz Rutz
Published: September 2023

Objetiva-se neste artigo apresentar o Protocolo PRISMA 2020 como uma possibilidade de roteiro para a Revisão Sistemática (RS) em ensino de ciências, abordando suas especificidades, avanços e limitações no contexto do ensino de ciências. É um estudo bibliográfico, que por meio da análise de materiais já elaborados busca novas conclusões. As bibliografias utilizadas são os documentos oficiais e artigos que estruturam o Protocolo PRISMA 2020 e o referencial teórico adotado sobre ensino de ciências. Constatou-se que o Protocolo PRISMA 2020 e o ensino de ciências possuem estruturas que se complementam com aspectos quantitativos e qualitativos, as pesquisas de RS em ensino de ciências apresentam fragilidades quanto à clareza dos procedimentos adotados, e o protocolo PRISMA 2020 contribui para minimizar tal problemática. A experiência de uso deste protocolo demonstrou a possibilidade do acompanhamento do desenvolvimento de uma RS, maior clareza e reprodutibilidade, bem como a prevenção dos vieses, tanto em documentos selecionados, quanto no desenvolvimento da pesquisa.
Identifying Luteolin as a Potential Drug for Treating Lung Adenocarcinoma
with COVID-19 Affection based on Integration Analysis of
Pharmacology and Transcriptome
Authors: Peng Ping , Li Na , Zhang Ni , Fu Xiangning , Peng Shu , Zhao Yujie , Ai Bo
Published: September 2023

Background:

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a major type of lung cancer
worldwide, and under the pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), its cancer
burden is enlarged. This study aimed to explore potential drug targets and potential drugs
for developing effective treatments for patients with both lung cancer and COVID-19.

Methods:

The interaction network of molecule compounds-target genes was constructed
based on Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) and gene expression data from public
databases. The potential effectiveness of drugs was analyzed by molecular docking and
molecular dynamics simulation. Western blot, transfection assay, Immunohistochemistry
(IHC) staining, and flow cytometry were performed to investigate the function of
HSP90AA1 in LUAD cells.

Result:

Eight target genes (GSK3B, HMOX1, HSP90AA1, ICAM1, MAPK1, PLAU,
RELA and TNFSF15.) were identified, and two of them (HSP90AA1 and RELA) were
significantly associated with LUAD prognosis. Luteolin was discovered to bind with
HSP90AA1. Moreover, in vitro cell experiments demonstrated that HSP90AA1 had higher
expression in A549 cells, promoted cell viability and suppressed apoptosis in A549
cells and H1299 cells.

Conclusion:

HSP90AA1 was a target gene for further designing effective drugs for LUAD
patients. Luteolin was a potential drug for treating patients with both LUAD and
COVID-19.
Preparation, Characterization, and Molecular Dynamic Simulation of Novel
Coenzyme Q10 Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers
Authors: Atapour-Mashhad Hoda , Nejabat Mojgan , Hadizadeh Farzin , Hoseinsalari Afsaneh , Golmohammadzadeh Shiva
Published: September 2023

Background:

Research proved that coenzyme Q10-loaded NLC effectively removes skin wrinkles,
therefore, such a formulation with good characteristics is still the research goal.

Objective:

This study investigated the effect of solid lipids and surfactant type on the physical characteristics of
Q10-NLC. We aimed to achieve the optimum formulation for producing NLC with long-term stability and high
Entrapment efficiency (E.E.) %. We compared the experimental results with the output of the Molecular
dynamic (M.D.) simulations.

Methods:

To develop Q10-NLC, various solid lipids, MCT oil, and surfactants were employed. The formulations
were prepared by high-shear homogenization and ultrasound methods. Stability studies were carried out
1,3, and 6 months at 4, 25, and 40°C. The optimized NLC formulations were characterized by photon correlation
spectroscopy (PCS), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC),
and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR). E.E. % was determined by HPLC analysis. Atomistic M.D. simulations
of two model systems were performed to gain insights into the self-assembled process of co-Q10 with other
formulation components.

Results:

Statistical analysis (Two-way ANOVA) revealed that solid lipid and surfactant factors had a significant
influence on particle size, PDI, and zeta potential (***p < 0.0001). According to the results, F1 and F6
formulations had desirable surface characterizations, physicochemical stability, and high E.E.%. The atomistic
M.D. simulations confirmed that the F1 system (best) was more stable than the F31 system (worst).

Conclusion:

The solid lipids: tripalmitin and compritol, stabilized with 4% tween 80 and 1% span 80, have
produced stable NLC with the best surface characteristics that could be a promising formulation for the delivery
of Q10. Atomistic M.D. simulation has confirmed the stability of F1 in comparison to F31.
A Visible-Light-Induced Cyclization Reaction
Authors: Li Siqi , Dong Jun
Published: September 2023

Visible light-catalyzed organic chemical transformations with the benefits of green and sustainable,
streamlined steps, and mild conditions have drawn increasing interest and attention due to the abundance of visible
light, green and non-toxic, and low-cost. These reactions undoubtedly offer new ways, new methods, and new
technologies for organic synthetic chemistry, which has developed quickly in the field of organic synthesis in recent
years. Cyclization reactions stand out as a significant tool since they allow for the creation of many bonds,
even stereocenters, in a single step while maintaining predictable stereochemistry. In this review, we summarize the
development of visible-light-induced cyclization reactions.
Ultrasound-assisted Synthesis of Nitrogen and Oxygen Containing Heterocycles
Authors: Wahan Simranpreet K. , Bhargava Gaurav , Chawla Pooja A.
Published: September 2023

Ultrasound is well explored in the preparation of several heterocycles as it is an eco-friendly, safer and cheaper technique compared to the previous conventional synthetic approach. Ultrasonication offers a great deal of interest for chemists as it not only lowers the reaction time but also markedly reduces the use of hazardous chemicals and enhances the purity of synthesized compounds. Since the application of ultrasound waves acts as a nonpolluting energy source, therefore, it is an area of great importance in the field of green and sustainable chemistry. Also, nitrogen and oxygen-based pharmaceuticals have been found to be a beneficial tool for modifying solubility, lipophilicity, polarity and other important pharmacokinetic parameters which aid in optimizing ADMET characteristics of drug candidates. Further, nitrogen and oxygen-containing compounds have been reported to exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, analgesic, antihyperglycemic action etc. Therefore, the review focues to coveron covering the latest applications of ultrasonication in the preparation of oxygen and nitrogen nitrogencontaining heterocycles holding immense importance in therapeutically active molecules, which will aid new researchers in their ongoingnd future research.
Long Non-coding RNAs Influence Aging Process of Sciatic Nerves in SD Rats
Authors: Kuang Rui , Zhang Yi , Wu Guanggeng , Zhu Zhaowei , Xu Shuqia , Liu Xiangxia , Xu Yangbin , Luo Yunxiang
Published: September 2023

Objectives:

To investigate the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) changes in the sciatic
nerve (SN) in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats during aging.

Methods:

Eighteen healthy SD rats were selected at the age of 1 month (1M) and 24 months (24M)
and SNs were collected. High-throughput transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis
were performed. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and competing endogenous RNA
(ceRNA) networks were established according to differentially expressed genes (DEGs).

Result:

As the length of lncRNAs increased, its proportion to the total number of lncRNAs decreased.
A total of 4079 DElncRNAs were identified in Con vs. 24M. GO analysis was primarily
clustered in nerve and lipid metabolism, extracellular matrix, and vascularization-related fields.
There were 17 nodes in the PPI network of the target genes of up-regulating genes including Itgb2,
Lox, Col11a1, Wnt5a, Kras, etc. Using quantitative RT-PCR, microarray sequencing accuracy was
validated. There were 169 nodes constructing the PPI network of down-regulated target genes,
mainly including Col1a1, Hmgcs1, Hmgcr. CeRNA interaction networks were constructed.

Conclusion:

Lipid metabolism, angiogenesis, and ECM fields might play an important role in the
senescence process in SNs. Col3a1, Serpinh1, Hmgcr, and Fdps could be candidates for nerve
aging research.
Purification, Characterization and Evaluation of the Anticoagulant Effect
of an Uncompetitive Trypsin Inhibitor obtained from Bauhinia pulchella
(Benth) Seeds
Authors: Roma Renato R. , Dias Lucas P. , Santos Ana L.E. , Silva Romério R.S. , Santos Maria H.C. , Rocha Bruno A.M. , Carneiro Rômulo F. , Nagano Celso S. , Sampaio Alexandre H. , Oliva Maria L.V , Silva Cláudio G.L. , Souza Racquel O.S. , Teixeira Claudener S.
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Trypsin inhibitors (TIs) have the ability to competitively or non-competitively
bind to trypsin and inhibit its action. These inhibitors are commonly found in plants and are
used in protease inhibition studies involved in biochemical pathways of pharmacological interest.

Objective:

This work aimed to purify a trypsin inhibitor from Bauhinia pulchella seeds (BpuTI), describing
its kinetic mechanism and anticoagulant effect.

Methods:

Affinity chromatography, protein assay, and SDS-PAGE were used to purify the inhibitor.
Mass spectrometry, inhibition assays, and enzyme kinetics were used to characterize the inhibitor.
In vitro assays were performed to verify its ability to prolong blood clotting time.

Results:

Affinity chromatography on a Trypsin-Sepharose 4B column gave a yield of 43.1. BpuTI
has an apparent molecular mass of 20 kDa with glycosylation (1.15%). Protein identification was
determined by MS/MS, and BpuTI showed similarity to several Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitors.
BpuTI inhibited bovine trypsin as an uncompetitive inhibitor with IC50 (3 x 10-6 M) and Ki (1.05 x
10-6 M). Additionally, BpuTI showed high stability to temperature and pH variations, maintaining
its activity up to 100 ºC and in extreme pH ranges. However, the inhibitor was susceptible to reducing
agents, such as DTT, which completely abolished its activity. BpuTI showed an anticoagulant
effect in vitro at a concentration of 33 μM, prolonging clotting time by 2.6 times.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that BpuTI can be a biological tool to be used in blood clotting
studies.
Pharmacological Potential of Bioactive Peptides for the Treatment of Diseases Associated with Alzheimer's and Brain Disorders
Authors: Gupta Jeetendra Kumar , Singh Kuldeep
Published: September 2023

Bioactive peptides are a promising class of therapeutics for the treatment of diseases associated with Alzheimer's and brain disorders. These peptides are derived from naturally occurring proteins and have been shown to possess a variety of beneficial properties. They may modulate neurotransmitter systems, reduce inflammation, and improve cognitive performance. In addition, bioactive peptides have the potential to target specific molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's and brain disorders. For example, peptides have been shown to interact with amyloid-beta, a major component of amyloid plaques found in Alzheimer's disease, and have been shown to reduce its accumulation in the brain. Furthermore, peptides have been found to modulate the activity of glutamate receptors, which are important for memory and learning, as well as to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in the formation of toxic amyloid-beta aggregates. Finally, bioactive peptides have the potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, two major components of many neurological disorders. These peptides could be used alone or in combination with traditional pharmacological treatments to improve the management of diseases associated with Alzheimer's and brain disorders.
WITHDRAWN: Stereoselective Synthesis and Antiproliferative Effect of Methoxylated Spirooxindoles on Colon Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ghosh Rajat , Acharya Pratap Chandra
Published: September 2023

Since the authors are not responding to the editor’s requests to fulfill the editorial requirement, therefore, the article has been
withdrawn from the journal Letters in Drug Design & Discovery.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

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the article for publication the authors agree that the publishers have the legal right to take appropriate action against the
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of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
The Value IRS-1 rs1801278G > A Polymorphism Testing in Evaluating
Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case-control
Study
Authors: Raad Helmi Zeena , Nori Wassan , Ghani Zghair Muna Abdul
Published: September 2023

Background:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a leading cause of infertility. Insulin
resistance is a key element in pathogenesis. The insulin receptor causes phosphorylation of the insulin
receptor substrate (IRS); IRS-1 rs1801278G > A polymorphism variant is the most common genetic
variant associated with IR and PCOS.

Objective:

We aimed to examine the frequency of IRS-1 rs1801278G > A polymorphism variant and
test its value in evaluating infertile PCOS women.

Methods:

A case-control study recruited 140 age and body-mass-matched participants in the university
hospital, subdivided according to Rotterdam criteria into PCOS cases (70/140) and healthy controls
(70/140). We collected demographic data, ultrasonic [antral follicles and endometrial thickness], hormonal
[FSH, LH, AMH, E2], and genetic data by polymerase chain reaction for analysis.

Result:

Wild GG SNP rs1801278 G was meaningfully higher among controls (58.57%, P<0.0001).
Mutant AA SNP rs1801278 was significantly higher in PCOS women (37.14%, P-value =0.0001, an
odds ratio of 20.50, 95% CI (9.42-28.63) to develop PCOS. Heterogenous GA gene SNP rs1801278
showed a trend of higher frequency in PCOS patients with 44.29%; OR of 3.91, 95% CI (1.37–7.55);
P = 0.422. Upon correlating infertility parameters to SNP rs1801278 G>A polymorphism, statistical
differences were found with AFC, LH/FSH ratio, and serum testosterone. As for the AMH, E2, and
endometrial thickness, they failed to have a statistical value.

Conclusion:

The significant correlation of genetic polymorphism to infertility parameters among
PCOS women opens a new therapeutic and prognostic avenue that helps gynecologists tailor manganate
for a better and safer outcome.
Analytical Methodologies for the Estimation of Acyclovir as Key
Members of Anti-viral Agent: Two Decades in Review
Authors: Gupta Akhil , Pathak Shilpi
Published: September 2023

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a viral infection that primarily targets oral and genital organs in humans. Acyclovir is a widely prescribed anti-viral agent used in the infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). This article emphasizes several analytical techniques, including spectrophotometry, High-performance liquid chromatography, High-performance thin-layer liquid chromatography, Ultra performance liquid chromatography, and Liquid chromatography/Mass detection for the quantification of acyclovir in different matrices like biological fluids and Pharmaceutical formulation. In the proposed work, numerous methods for different techniques were extracted from various databases such as Science Direct, Springer, PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, etc. According to the recommendation from the internal conference on harmonization, this review describes how to determine the presence of utilizing acyclovir in different analytical techniques alone or in combination with another drug.
Predicting Readmission of Cardiovascular Patients Admitted to the CCU using Data Mining Techniques
Authors: Salimi Marzie , Bastani Peivand , Nasiri Mahdi , Karajizadeh Mehrdad , Ravangard Ramin
Published: September 2023

Background:

Cardiovascular (CV) diseases account for a large number of readmissions.

Objective:

Using data mining techniques, we aimed to predict the readmission of CV patients to Coronary Care Units of 4 public hospitals in Shiraz, Iran, within 30 days after discharge.

Methods:

To identify the variables affecting the readmission of CV patients in the present cross-sectional study, a comprehensive review of previous studies and the consensus of specialists and sub-specialists were used. The obtained variables were based on 264 readmitted and non-readmitted patients. Readmission was modeled with predictive algorithms with an accuracy of >70% using the IBM SPSS Modeler 18.0 software. Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) methodology provided a structured approach to planning the project.

Results:

Overall, 47 influential variables were included. The Support Vector Machine (SVM), Chi-square Automatic Interaction Detection (CHIAD), artificial neural network, C5.0, K-Nearest Neighbour, logistic regression, Classification and Regression (C&R) tree, and Quest algorithms with an accuracy of 98.60%, 89.60%, 89.90%, 88.00%, 85.90%, 79.90%, 78.60%, and 74.40%, respectively, were selected. The SVM algorithm was the best model for predicting readmission. According to this algorithm, the factors affecting readmission were age, arrhythmia, hypertension, chest pain, type of admission, cardiac or non-cardiac comorbidities, ejection fraction, undergoing coronary angiography, fluid and electrolyte disorders, and hospitalization 6-9 months before the current admission.

Conclusion:

According to the influential variables, it is suggested to educate patients, especially the older ones, about following physician advice and also to teach medical staff about up-to-date options to reduce readmissions.
Artificial Intelligence in Dermatology: Current Uses, Shortfalls, and Potential Opportunities for Further Implementation in Diagnostics and Care
Authors: Koka Sanjay Satya-Akunuri , Burkhart Craig G.
Published: September 2023

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform medical delivery by improving patient care and provider experience. Implementing AI into health care is limited in scale, but the projected demand for health care, combined with the shortfall in practitioners, will necessitate the inclusion of AI-based technology in clinical medicine to maintain quality care. AI applications may range from enhancing clinical diagnosis to managing population health through big data. In today’s world, AI scaling in health care is at phase one: AI is either utilized for administrative tasks or imaging. Although the implementation of AI will be difficult, the need for the adoption of AI in the coming years will lead the technology to be a vital aspect of diagnosis and care in and out of the hospital. Dermatology is one medical specialty in which AI applications are in use and in which medical care will evolve. Dermatology has progressed over the years in correspondence with advancements in AI-based technologies such as imaging and medical speech recognition. To better equip future dermatologists, exposure to AI through medical education is necessary for dermatologists to utilize AI effectively. There are hurdles to overcome, but AI is necessary, and it will change health care through effective time management and clinical decision-making. This review, created in collaboration with Precision Pundits, was developed to achieve an understanding of AI in the present-day medical landscape; this project explored the impact AI technology has on dermatology and medical care.
Role of Caregivers in Remote Management of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Systematic Review of Literature (Preprint)
Authors: Seng Jun Jie Benjamin , Gwee Meng Ferng Ryan , Yong Mei Hui Amanda , Kwan Yu Heng , Thumboo Julian , Low Lian Leng
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

With the growing use of remote monitoring technologies in the management of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), caregivers are becoming important resources that can be tapped into to improve patient care.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to summarize the role of caregivers in the remote monitoring of patients with T2DM.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review in MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science up to 2022. Studies that evaluated the role of caregivers in remote management of adult patients with T2DM were included. Outcomes such as diabetes control, adherence to medication, quality of life, frequency of home glucose monitoring, and health care use were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 1198 identified citations, 11 articles were included. The majority of studies were conducted in North America (7/11, 64%) and South America (2/11, 18%). The main types of caregivers studied were family or friends (10/11, 91%), while the most common remote monitoring modalities evaluated were interactive voice response (5/11, 45%) and phone consultations (4/11, 36%). With regard to diabetes control, 3 of 6 studies showed improvement in diabetes-related laboratory parameters. A total of 2 studies showed improvements in patients’ medication adherence rates and frequency of home glucose monitoring. Studies that evaluated patients’ quality of life showed mixed evidence. In 1 study, increased hospitalization rates were noted in the intervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

Caregivers may play a role in improving clinical outcomes among patients with T2DM under remote monitoring. Studies on mobile health technologies are lacking to understand their impact on Asian populations and long-term patient outcomes.
Corrected QT Interval (QTc) Diagnostic App for the Oncological Routine: Development Study (Preprint)
Authors: Klier Kristina , Patel Yash J , Schinköthe Timo , Harbeck Nadia , Schmidt Annette
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Numerous antineoplastic drugs such as chemotherapeutics have cardiotoxic side effects and can lead to long QT syndrome (LQTS). When diagnosed and treated in time, the potentially fatal outcomes of LQTS can be prevented. Therefore, regular electrocardiogram (ECG) assessments are critical to ensure patient safety. However, these assessments are associated with patient discomfort and require timely support of the attending oncologist by a cardiologist.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine whether this approach can be made more efficient and comfortable by a smartphone app (QTc Tracker), supporting single-lead ECG records on site and transferring to a tele-cardiologist for an immediate diagnosis.

METHODS

To evaluate the QTc Tracker, it was implemented in 54 cancer centers in Germany. In total, 266 corrected QT interval (QTc) diagnoses of 122 patients were recorded. Moreover, a questionnaire on routine ECG workflow, turnaround time, and satisfaction (1=best, 6=worst) was answered by the centers before and after the implementation of the QTc Tracker.

RESULTS

Compared to the routine ECG workflow, the QTc Tracker enabled a substantial turnaround time reduction of 98% (mean 2.67, 95% CI 1.72-2.67 h) and even further time efficiency in combination with a cardiologic on-call service (mean 12.10, 95% CI 5.67-18.67 min). Additionally, nurses and patients reported higher satisfaction when using the QTc Tracker. In particular, patients’ satisfaction sharply improved from 2.59 (95% CI 2.41-2.88) for the routine ECG workflow to 1.25 (95% CI 0.99-1.51) for the QTc Tracker workflow.

CONCLUSIONS

These results reveal a significant improvement regarding reduced turnaround time and increased user satisfaction. Best patient care might be guaranteed as the exposure of patients with an uncontrolled risk of QTc prolongations can be avoided by using the fast and easy QTc Tracker. In particular, as regular side-effect monitoring, the QTc Tracker app promises more convenience for patients and their physicians. Finally, future studies are needed to empirically test the usability and validity of such mobile ECG assessment methods.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04055493; https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04055493
The Effectiveness of Video-Based Game Exercise Therapy Applications in Pes Planus Rehabilitation: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Erten Ayşe Büşra , Tarakçı Devrim , Çaçan Mehmet Akif
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Pes planus is one of the most common foot deformities. Although there are many studies on the effectiveness of various exercise methods in pes planus rehabilitation, the number of studies on video-based game exercise therapy applications is very limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of 2 video-based game exercise therapies and structured exercise practices in pes planus rehabilitation.

METHODS

This study is a 3-arm, parallel-group, single-blinded randomized controlled trial. The study will include 69 patients with flexible pes planus aged between 18 and 25 years who attend the orthopedics and traumatology clinic and meet the inclusion criteria. The primary outcomes are measures of navicular drop and pedobarographic analysis before and after the intervention, and the secondary outcomes include balance, femoral anteversion, and lower extremity muscle strength. Participants will be evaluated with a navicular drop test for medial longitudinal arch height, a pedobarographic analysis system for plantar pressure analysis, a Craig test for femoral anteversion, the Becure Balance System for balance measurement, and a myometer device for lower extremity muscle strength measurement. Participants will be randomly assigned to a structured exercise group, an exergame group, or a serious game group according to their order of arrival. The structured exercise group will use a short foot exercise, a towel-picking exercise, and various walking and balance exercises. Patients in the serious play group will play the lower extremity games in the Becure Balance System. Patients in the exergame group will play balance games on the Nintendo Wii game console. All participants will participate in 18 exercise sessions (3 days a week for 6 weeks). After the treatment, the initial measurements will be repeated.

RESULTS

The study started in January 2023. It is expected to be completed in June 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will be the first randomized controlled study to evaluate the effectiveness of 2 different video-based game exercise therapy applications in pes planus rehabilitation. Through this study, the use of video-based game exercise therapy in pes planus rehabilitation, together with the developing technology, will be a guide. In addition, a new exercise protocol, including serious game exercises, will be added to the literature. In the future, it is expected that our study on the development of different game systems, especially for the ankle, will provide pioneering feedback.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05679219; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05679219

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/51772
Exploring rare disease realities: a systematic literature review on harnessing social media patient-generated data (Preprint)
Authors: Le Priol Emma , Gedik Anaïs , Mebarki Adel , Schück Stéphane , Texier Nathalie , Burgun Anita
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Rare diseases affect roughly 400 million people world-wide, and 30 million in Europe. Intangible costs and personal aspects for patients and their families are rarely accounted for, as most studies focus on easy-to-measure metrics. On the other hand, social media play an important role for these people who can easily feel isolated and seek both support and advice online.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to examine in the peer-reviewed academic literature how social media has been used to generate new knowledge, and the types of research questions that have been answered through social data mining. We explore what types of methods, data sources, and data types are used.

METHODS

We reviewed studies based on user-generated data, focusing on rare diseases, and published prior to May 2023. For included publications, a list of pertinent variables was established to cover data sources, data processing, and objectives. These variables were later on analysed quantitatively and qualitatively.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven studies were included. The vast majority of publications (94.3%) focused on one rare disease or on a family of rare diseases. Overall, only less than a hundred rare diseases were studied in the included publications. Moreover, 93.1% of the studies analysed contents in English. Surprisingly, automated methods were used in only seven studies, all published after 2020. These publications’ mean number of posts studied is 33,201 (compared to 1,405 for publications analysing the posts manually). Among these publications, three had a temporal range of five years or more, accounting for half of the publications with a temporal range of five years or more (the majority of publications had a temporal range of less than two years). Among the seven publications using AI methods, the two main AI-assisted tasks were sentiment analysis and topic identification.

CONCLUSIONS

This work allowed us to grasp what the reality of using user-generated social media data for rare disease research was in 2023. The opportunities of current AI research on NLP are still underexploited in this very specific field, resulting in an under exploitation of online data. Contrasting with the high expectancies of the rare disease research community, this review shows that social media based studies in this field are still at an early stage, with only a tiny portion of rare diseases studied, with only a few languages studied also, and mainly with only very few studies exploiting current NLP progress to extract knowledge from social media data.
Markerless Motion Capture to Quantify Functional Performance in Neurodegeneration: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Jeyasingh-Jacob Julian , Crook-Rumsey Mark , Shah Harshvi , Joseph Theresita , Abulikemu Subati , Daniels Sarah , Sharp David J , Haar Shlomi
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Markerless motion capture (MMC) uses video cameras or depth sensors for full body tracking and presents a promising approach for objectively and unobtrusively monitoring functional performance within community settings, to aid clinical decision-making in neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this systematic review was to investigate the application of MMC using full-body tracking, to quantify functional performance in people with dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and Parkinson disease.

METHODS

A systematic search of the Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Scopus databases was conducted between November 2022 and February 2023, which yielded a total of 1595 results. The inclusion criteria were MMC and full-body tracking. A total of 157 studies were included for full-text screening, out of which 26 eligible studies that met the selection criteria were included in the review. 

RESULTS

Primarily, the selected studies focused on gait analysis (n=24), while other functional tasks, such as sit to stand (n=5) and stepping in place (n=1), were also explored. However, activities of daily living were not evaluated in any of the included studies. MMC models varied across the studies, encompassing depth cameras (n=18) versus standard video cameras (n=5) or mobile phone cameras (n=2) with postprocessing using deep learning models. However, only 6 studies conducted rigorous comparisons with established gold-standard motion capture models.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite its potential as an effective tool for analyzing movement and posture in individuals with dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and Parkinson disease, further research is required to establish the clinical usefulness of MMC in quantifying mobility and functional performance in the real world.
Trends and Technology Development in Life Science
Authors:   Director, Rashya Centre for Learning Peringannur Post, Peringode Via Palakkad District, Kerala - 679535, Sheeba E Dr.
Published: September 2023

Life Science can divide into many branches. In each branch, scope of research is enormous. The future of the Life Science is technology driven which help to solve many problems in the daily life. The book entitled “Trends and Technology Development in Life Sciences” provides knowledge on some recent trends and keep us updated of the same. It enhances the diagnosis; treatment of diseases and artificial intelligence perform more complex tasks. India is one of the fastest growing Life Science markets in the industry. The pandemic made this Science field to think more innovative way and to take up the challenges such as vaccine production. Manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology-based food and medicines, medical devices, biomedical technologies, nutraceuticals, environmental science, cloud technology, etc. are important fields and research and development happening in all these branches.Collaboration is vital between academia and Life Science industry and funding is crucial for the technology development. Recent trends and technology development boost good services, simplify the processes and cost cutting. Moreover, learning the surrounding problems and interest in research can detect solution to most of the glitches. Advancement in technology is essential for the development of country and population. Study of merits and demerits are equally important in sustainable development of science. In this book, recent research techniques in different fields are included.
Characterization of Carrageenan Edible Film With Natural Antioxidant From Syzygium Cumini Leaf Extract (SCLE)
Authors: Nasution Reni Silvia
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Edible film have received considerable attention because of their advantages including their use as edible packaging material over synthetic films. This study aimed to characterize an edible film based on carrageenan and Syzygium cumini leaf extract (SCLE) as a natural antioxidant. The addition of SCLE was carried out with various concentrations of 0, 5, 10 and 15%. Characterization was carried out by measuring the physical properties, mechanical properties and antioxidant activities. The result showed that the presence of SCLE gave an increase in thickness and a decrease in solubility and water content compared to the edible film without the addition of SCLE. The addition of 5% SCLE resulted in a slight increase in tensile strength and a reduction in elongation at break. The edible films also showed an increase in antioxidant activity with the addition of SCLE where the highest antioxidant activity was at the addition of 15% SCLE. The incorporation of natural antioxidants in edible films can be a potential strategy to produce promising active packaging to extend product shelf life in the food packaging industry.Abstrak: Edible film telah mendapat banyak perhatian karena keuntungannya sebagai kemasan yang dapat dimakan  dibandingkan film sintetik. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengkarakterisasi edible film berbasis karaginan dan ekstrak daun Syzygium cumini (SCLE) sebagai antioksidan alami. Penambahan SCLE dilakukan dengan variasi konsentrasi 0, 5, 10 dan 15%. Karakterisasi dilakukan dengan mengukur sifat fisika, sifat mekanik dan aktivitas antioksidannya. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa keberadaan SCLE memberikan peningkatan pada ketebalan dan penurunan pada kelarutan dan kadar air dibandingkan edibe film tanpa penambahan SCLE. Penambahan SCLE sebanyak 5% menghasilkan sedikit peningkatan pada kuat tarik dan pengurangan pada perpanjangan putus. Edible film juga menunjukkan peningkatan aktivitas antioksidan dengan penambahan SCLE dimana aktivitas antioksidan tertinggi pada penambahan 15% SCLE. Penggabungan antioksidan alami pada edible film dapat menjadi strategi potensial untuk menghasilkan kemasan aktif yang menjanjikan untuk memperpanjang umur simpan produk pada industri kemasan makanan.
Synthesis of Carbon Dots From Empty Fruit Bunch Biochar an Acid-Free Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Marpongahtun Marpongahtun , Pramudita Rufina , Gea Saharman , Daulay Amru
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Carbon dots have gained much interest due to their outstanding optical and electrical properties, making them useful for a wide range of applications. Here Empty fruit bunch (EFB) biochar was used as a carbon source in a straightforward, environmentally friendly, and reproducible hydrothermal method for producing carbon quantum dots. In this study, the role of the hydrothermal process was seen and studied by comparing the shape and fluorescence. Exciting results from HRTEM show that the carbon quantum dots in the sample are 4 nm in size. The obtained CD emits bright blue luminescence, and the absorption peak of the carbon dots was observed in the UV region with maximum absorption at 205 nm and 322 nm. The light CD shows an intense sky blue color upon illumination by a UV-light source at 365 nm. The intensity of the photoluminescence (PL) spectra sharply increases with decreasing concentration of carbon dots. Meanwhile, the CD exhibited excitation-dependence, photo-stability, and well dispersibility. These results suggest that the present CD are potential applications in optoelectronics and imaging.Abstrak: Karbon dots telah menarik banyak perhatian karena sifat listrik dan optik yang luar biasa, sehingga dapat digunakan untuk berbagai aplikasi. Penelitian ini, menggunakan biochar tandan buah kosong (EFB) sebagai sumber karbon dengan metode hidrotermal yang ramah lingkungan untuk menghasilkan karbon dots. Hasil HR-TEM yang menarik menunjukkan bahwa sampel karbon dots berukuran 4 nm. Karbon dots yang diperoleh memancarkan sinar biru terang dan puncak serapan titik karbon diamati pada spektrofotometri Uv-Vis dengan serapan maksimum pada 205 nm dan 322 nm. Intensitas karbon dots menunjukkan warna biru langit di cahaya UV pada 365 nm. Intensitas spektroskopi luminesens meningkat tajam dengan menurunnya konsentrasi titik karbon. Sementara itu, karbon dots menunjukkan eksitasi, stabilitas, dan dispersibilitas baik. Hasil ini menunjukkan bahwa karbon dots dapat digunakan pada beberapa aplikasi seperti dalam optoelektronik dan pencitraan.
The impact of velocity update frequency on time accuracy for mantle convection particle methods
Authors: Trim Sean James , Butler Samuel L. , Spiteri Raymond J
Published: September 2023

Computing the velocity field is an expensive process for mantle
convection codes. This has implications for particle methods used to
model the advection of quantities such as temperature or composition. A
common choice for the numerical treatment of particle trajectories is
classical fourth-order Runge–Kutta (ERK4) integration, which involves a
velocity computation at each of its four stages. To reduce the cost per
time step, it is possible to evaluate the velocity for a subset of the
four time integration stages. We explore two such alternative schemes,
in which velocities are only computed for: a) stage 1 on odd-numbered
time steps and stages 2–4 for even-numbered time steps, and b) stage 1
for all time steps. A theoretical analysis of stability and accuracy is
presented for all schemes. It was found that the alternative schemes are
first-order accurate with stability regions different from that of ERK4.
The efficiency and accuracy of the alternate schemes were compared
against ERK4 in four test problems covering isothermal, thermal, and
thermochemical flows. Exact solutions were used as reference solutions
when available. In agreement with theory, the alternate schemes were
observed to be first-order accurate for all test problems. Accordingly,
they may be used to efficiently compute solutions to within modest error
tolerances. For small error tolerances, however, ERK4 was the most
efficient.
Two decades of permafrost region CO2, CH4, and N2O budgets suggest a small net greenhouse gas source to the atmosphere
Authors: Hugelius Gustaf , Ramage Justine Lucile , Burke Eleanor J. , Chatterjee Abhishek , Smallman Thomas Luke , Aalto Tuula , Bastos Ana , Biasi Christina , Canadell Josep G. , Chandra Naveen , Chevallier Frederic , Ciais Philippe , Chang Jinfeng , Feng Liang , Jones Matthew W , Kleinen Thomas , Kuhn McKenzie , Lauerwald Ronny , Liu Junjie , López-Blanco Efrén , Luijkx Ingrid Theodora , Marushchak Maija E , Natali Susan M. , Niwa Yosuke , Olefeldt David , Palmer Paul , Patra Prabir K. , Peters Wouter , Potter Stefano , Poulter Benjamin , Rogers Brendan , Riley William J. , SAUNOIS Marielle , Schuur Ted A.G. , Thompson Rona L. , Treat Claire Clark , Tsuruta Aki , Turetsky Merritt R , Virkkala Anna- Maria , Voigt Carolina , Watts Jennifer , Zhu Qing , Zheng Bo
Published: September 2023

The long-term net sink of carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and greenhouse gases
(GHGs) in the northern permafrost region is projected to weaken or shift
under climate change. But large uncertainties remain, even on
present-day GHG budgets. We compare bottom-up (data-driven upscaling,
process-based models) and top-down budgets (atmospheric inversion
models) of the main GHGs (CO2, CH4, and N2O) and lateral fluxes of C and
N across the region over 2000-2020. Bottom-up approaches estimate higher
land to atmosphere fluxes for all GHGs compared to top-down atmospheric
inversions. Both bottom-up and top-down approaches respectively show a
net sink of CO2 in natural ecosystems (-31 (-667, 559) and -587 (-862,
-312), respectively) but sources of CH4 (38 (23, 53) and 15 (11, 18) Tg
CH4-C yr-1) and N2O (0.6 (0.03, 1.2) and 0.09 (-0.19, 0.37) Tg N2O-N
yr-1) in natural ecosystems. Assuming equal weight to bottom-up and
top-down budgets and including anthropogenic emissions, the combined GHG
budget is a source of 147 (-492, 759) Tg CO2-Ceq yr-1 (GWP100). A net
CO2 sink in boreal forests and wetlands is offset by CO2 emissions from
inland waters and CH4 emissions from wetlands and inland waters, with a
smaller additional warming from N2O emissions. Priorities for future
research include representation of inland waters in process-based models
and compilation of process-model ensembles for CH4 and N2O.
Discrepancies between bottom-up and top-down methods call for analyses
of how prior flux ensembles impact inversion budgets, more in-situ flux
observations and improved resolution in upscaling.