bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relacje między teologią a naukami przyrodniczymi w kontekście edukacji
Authors: Śledziewski Sławomir
Published: January 2021

Man, wanting to progress, must educate himself, the sense of attaining education is formed both by „the deeper desire in the human being”, which leads him to reflect on the subject of God and by the will to study natural sciences, which have permanently changed our way of thinking about the world surrounding us and about ourselves. In the process of cognition faith cannot take the place of reason, nor reason the place of faith, these are two ways of arriving at the truth, which must collaborate in agreement with each other, thus education should concentrate on outlining the relation between theology and natural sciences. Such complementing leads to the cognition and fathoming of the truth, and this, besides the attainment of wisdom, is one of the main assumptions of education.
Rola etyki środowiskowej w edukacji ekologicznej oraz jej implikacje w katechezie
Authors: Ciszek Marek
Published: January 2021

Streszczenie nie jest dostępne.
Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) for Traits Related to Fodder Quality and Biofuel in Sorghum: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Somegowda Vinutha Kanuganahalli , Rayaprolu Laavanya , Rathore Abhishek , Deshpande Santosh Pandurang , Gupta Rajeev
Published: January 2021

The main focus of this review is to discuss the current status of the use of GWAS for
fodder quality and biofuel owing to its similarity of traits. Sorghum is a potential multipurpose
crop, popularly cultivated for various uses as food, feed fodder, and biomass for ethanol. Production
of a huge quantity of biomass and genetic variation for complex sugars are the main motivations
not only to use sorghum as fodder for livestock nutritionists but also as a potential candidate
for biofuel generation. Few studies have been reported on the knowledge transfer that can be used
from the development of biofuel technologies to complement improved fodder quality and vice
versa. With recent advances in genotyping technologies, GWAS became one of the primary tools
used to identify the genes/genomic regions associated with the phenotype. These modern tools and
technologies accelerate the genomic assisted breeding process to enhance the rate of genetic gains.
Hence, this mini-review focuses on GWAS studies on genetic architecture and dissection of traits
underpinning fodder quality and biofuel traits and their limited comparison with other related model
crop species.
Phenylbenzopyrone of Flavonoids as a Potential Scaffold to Prevent SARSCoV-2 Replication by Inhibiting its M PRO Main Protease
Authors: Potshangbam Angamba M. , Nongdam Potshangbam , Kumar A. Kiran , Rathore R.S.
Published: January 2021

Background:

In December 2019, an outbreak of a pneumonia-like illness, Corona virus
disease 2019 (COVID-19), originating from Wuhan, China, was linked to novel coronavirus,
now termed SARS-CoV-2. Unfortunately, no effective drugs or vaccines have been reported
yet. The main protease (MPRO) remains the most validated pharmacological target for the design
and discovery of inhibitors.

Objective:

The purpose of the study was to find a prospective natural scaffold as an inhibitor for
MPRO main protease in SARS-CoV-2 and compare it with repurposed antiviral drugs lopinavir
and nelfinavir.

Methods:

Natural compound libraries were screened for potential scaffold against MPRO main
protease. Molecular dynamics simulation, MM-GBSA and principal component analyses of enzyme-
ligand complexes were carried out with the top-ranking hits and compared with the repurposed
antiviral drugs lopinavir and nelfinavir.

Results:

The structure-based virtual screening indicated phenylbenzopyrone of flavonoids as one
of the top-ranking scaffolds that have the potential to inhibit the main protease with the Oglycosidic
form, performing better than the corresponding aglyconic form. Simulation studies
indicated that glycosidic form of flavonoid is a more suitable inhibitor with compounds rutin,
procyanidin B6, baicalin and galloylquercetin, demonstrating high affinity and stability, and rutin,
emerging as one of the best candidate compounds. Interestingly, rutin was reported to have
inhibitory activity against similar protease (3Cprotease of enterovirus A71) and implicated in
lung fibrosis.

Conclusion:

The present study on flavonoids, possessing a potential scaffold for inhibiting main
protease activity for all betacoronavirus is an attempt to provide new and safe drug leads within a
reasonably short period.
Pathogenesis of COVID-19, Disease Outbreak: A Review
Authors: Sharma Himanshu , Singh Sonia , Pathak Shilpi
Published: January 2021

Coronavirus-19 is a severe acute respiratory disorder in humans which has become a major
health problem. It spreads out very rapidly throughout the world since it has been first identified in
Wuhan, China (December 2019). The causative virus is known as severe acute respiratory syndrome
coronavirus 2. And the World Health Organization has named this respiratory syndrome as a new epidemic
disease called COVID-19. The incidence of COVID-19 continued to increase with three million
confirmed infected cases and with 244,000 death cases worldwide. Until now there is no specific
treatment or vaccine available against COVID- 19. The collective information about the different aspects
of COVID-19 viral infection has been gathered from renowned journals, and electronic databases
including Science Direct, Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed from 1990 to 2020. This manuscript
has highlighted the transmission and symptoms of Covid-19. Therefore, these studies show how the
SARS-CoV 2 can facilitate the debut of the virus into targeted host cells.
Efficacy of a Chitosan-curcumin Mixture in Treating Indomethacininduced Acute Gastric Ulcer in Rats
Authors: Kuadkaew Sineenat , Ungphaiboon Suwipa , Phdoongsombut Narubodee , Kaewsuwan Sireewan , Mahattanadul Sirima
Published: January 2021

Background:

Curcumin is claimed as a potent protectant against Gastric Ulcer (GU) induced
by strong necrotizing agents, including NSAIDs through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
and gastroprotective activities. However, it was found to exert opposite effects to either delay ulcer
healing or exacerbate ulcer inflammation through some curative mechanisms differently modified
by curcumin dosage. Its ability to inhibit the expression of COX-2 may also delay the healing of
NSAIDs-induced GU. Recently, a topical chitosan-curcumin solution has been found to be a safe
and potential alternative agent in treating oral ulcer. Therefore, an oral chitosan-curcumin mixture
was developed and determined for its efficacy in treating NSAIDs-induced GU in the rat.

Methods:

A chitosan (150 mg)-curcumin (20 mg) mixture with optimal gastric pH was developed.
Indomethacin (30 mg/kg) was given orally to the rat and test preparations were administered orally
at 5 h later and then every 24 h for two consecutive days. The sum of all gastric ulcerated areas
(mm2) for each stomach was used as ulcer index. Gastric pro-inflammatory mediators and cytoprotective
factors were determined.

Results:

An oral administration of a chitosan-curcumin mixture exerted a superior efficacy than
curcumin, chitosan or lansoprazole (a standard antiulcer agent) in healing indomethacin-induced
GU. It was revealed that the mixture exhibited the highest anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastric
mucus producing activities including the high potency in down-regulating pro-inflammatory
COX-2 and iNOS expression but up-regulating cytoprotective COX-1, nNOS and eNOS expression.

Conclusion:

The present findings indicated the benefit of a chitosan-curcumin mixture as a potential
alternative agent in treating NSAIDs-induced gastric ulcers.
Application and Future Prospect of Extracellular Matrix Targeted Nanomaterials in Tumor Theranostics
Authors: Fang Wenyou , Su Dan , Lu Wenjie , Wang Nan , Mao Rong , Chen Yuan , Ge Kunkun , Shen Aizong , Hu Rongfeng
Published: January 2021

Systemic chemotherapy and radiotherapy have been widely used in clinics for several decades,
but their disadvantages, such as systemic cytotoxicity and severe side effects, are the biggest
obstacle to maximum therapeutic efficacy. In recent years, the impact of extracellular matrix components
in tumor progression has gained the attention of researchers, and with the rapid development
of nanomaterials, extracellular matrix targeted nanomaterials have become a promising strategy
in tumor theranostics. In this review, we will outline the recent and relevant examples of various
tumor extracellular matrix targeted nanomaterials applied in tumor therapy and imaging. And we
will discuss the challenges and prospects of nanomaterials for future tumor therapy.
Biologically Responsive Nanosystems Targeting Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Song Zhiling , Song Kechen , Xiao Yi , Guo Hui , Zhu Yizhun , Wang Xiaolin
Published: January 2021

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of mortality and morbidity
worldwide. To date, significant progress has been made in developing stimuli-responsive nanosystems
that can intrinsically interact with pathological microenvironment to achieve site-specific delivery
along with on-demand drug release for precise CVD treatment. Herein, this review summarizes
recent advances on smart nanosystems in response to a wide range of biological cues, including
pH, enzymes, ROS, shear force, ATP, etc., which can boost drug delivery performance or
monitor disease progression in a non-invasive manner. The designs, compositions and main outcomes
of the single and multi-responsive nanosystems for drug delivery and/or detection purposes
are provided and discussed.
Cystic Hygroma with Multiple Benign Bone Lymphangiomas in an Adult Patient: A Rare Entity in the Differential Diagnosis of Multiple Osseous Lesions in Oncology Practice
Authors: Aslan Ferit , Güvenç İnanç , Aslan Aydın , Günaydın Elif
Published: January 2021

Cystic lymphangioma presenting with multiple bone lesions in an adult patient is a rare
occurrence, with a limited number of reported cases in the literature. In this case report, we describe
a 32-year old female patient with chronic neck and pelvic pain, and multiple lytic bone lesions
on radiological imaging, which were eventually discovered to originate from cystic hygroma
and widespread bone lymphangiomas that were present for more than 10 years. It should be kept in
mind that there may be multiple benign causes of differential diagnosis in patients presenting with
findings suggestive of diffuse bone metastasis. Misdiagnosis may cause the patient to receive unnecessary
treatments, especially radiotherapy. In this case, we reached the diagnosis of benign disease,
diffuse bone lymphangiomatosis. For this purpose, we also examine the long and stable medical
history of the patient with the findings of BT, ultrasound, and bone scintigraphy.

We think that as long as there are no stable and serious results ofclinical and radiological findings
of the patient, the patient should be approached with medical follow-up without treatment.
Usefulness of Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound in the Evaluation of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Han Byoung Hee , Park Sung Bin
Published: January 2021

Background:

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can provide more improved images
of renal blood flow and much more information of both macro- and microcirculation of the
kidney as compared to Doppler US.

Objective:

To investigate the usefulness of CEUS by analyzing differences in perfusion-related parameters
among the three chronic kidney disease (CKD) subgroups and the control group.

Methods:

Thirty-eight patients with CKD and 21 controls who were age-matched (20−49 years)
were included. Included CKD patients were stratified into three groups according to their eGFR:
group I, eGFR ≥ 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (GFR category I and II); group II, 30 ml/min/1.73 m2 ≤ eGFR
< 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (GFR category III); and group III, eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2 (GFR category
IV and V). Comparisons with the controls (eGFR > 90 ml/min/1.73 m2) were performed. Real-time
and dynamic renal cortex imaging was performed using CEUS. Time-intensity curves and several
bolus model quantitative perfusion parameters were created using the VueBox® quantification software.
We compared the parameters among the CKD subgroups and between the CKD and control
groups.

Results:

Eight patients were included in group I, 12 patients in group II, and 18 patients in group
III. Significant differences were noted in the wash-in and wash-out rates between the CKD and control
groups (p = 0.027 and p = 0.018, respectively), but not between those of the CKD subgroups.
There were no significant differences of other perfusion parameters among the CKD subgroups
and between the CKD and control groups.

Conclusion:

A few perfusion related CEUS parameters (WiR and WoR) can be used as markers of
renal microvascular perfusion relating renal function. CEUS can effectively and quantitatively exhibit
the renal microvascular perfusion in patients with CKD as well as normal control participants.
A Tour of Unsupervised Deep Learning for Medical Image Analysis
Authors: Raza Khalid , Singh Nripendra Kumar
Published: January 2021

Background:

Interpretation of medical images for the diagnosis and treatment of complex
diseases from high-dimensional and heterogeneous data remains a key challenge in transforming
healthcare. In the last few years, both supervised and unsupervised deep learning achieved
promising results in the area of medical image analysis. Several reviews on supervised deep learning
are published, but hardly any rigorous review on unsupervised deep learning for medical image
analysis is available.

Objectives:

The objective of this review is to systematically present various unsupervised deep learning
models, tools, and benchmark datasets applied to medical image analysis. Some of the discussed
models are autoencoders and their variants, Restricted Boltzmann Machines (RBM), Deep
Belief Networks (DBN), Deep Boltzmann Machine (DBM), and Generative Adversarial Network
(GAN). Future research opportunities and challenges of unsupervised deep learning techniques for
medical image analysis are also discussed.

Conclusion:

Currently, interpretation of medical images for diagnostic purposes is usually performed
by human experts that may be replaced by computer-aided diagnosis due to advancement
in machine learning techniques, including deep learning, and the availability of cheap computing infrastructure
through cloud computing. Both supervised and unsupervised machine learning approaches
are widely applied in medical image analysis, each of them having certain pros and cons.
Since human supervisions are not always available or are inadequate or biased, therefore, unsupervised
learning algorithms give a big hope with lots of advantages for biomedical image analysis.
Therapeutic Benefit and Biological Importance of Ginkgetin in the Medicine: Medicinal Importance, Pharmacological Activities and Analytical Aspects
Authors: Patel Kanika , Patel Dinesh Kumar
Published: January 2021

Background:

Plants-derived bioactive compounds play an important role in traditional
and modern medicine, and some of the best examples are morphine, papaverine, vinblastine, vincristine
and ephedrine. Flavonoids are the naturally occurred phenolic compounds found to be present
in the different medicinal plants and responsible for their attractive shades in nature.
Flavonoids compounds have been well known in medicine for their anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory,
anti-hyperlipidemia and anti-apoptotic activities.

Methods:

In order to know the therapeutic benefit of ginkgetin in medicine, here in the present investigation,
different scientific databases have been searched to collect the important scientific information
of ginkgetin with respect to the medicinal importance and pharmacological activities.
Different scientific databases such as Google, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Google Scholar
have been searched to collect the important scientific information of the ginkgetin in the present
work. All the collected scientific information’s have been analyzed for the medicinal importance,
pharmacological activities and analytical aspects of ginkgetin.

Results:

Literature databases analysis using various scientific databases such as Google, PubMed,
Science Direct, Scopus and Google Scholar revealed that ginkgetin is a biflavonoids found to be
present in the Ginkgo biloba leaves and have been used in traditional and allopathic medicine.
Databases analysis signified that ginkgetin has effectiveness against inflammatory disorders, lipid
peroxidation, prostate cancer, DNA damage, renal cell carcinoma, osteosarcoma and small cell
lung cancer. Different analytical techniques for the quantification of ginkgetin have also been included
in the present investigation.

Conclusion:

Present study revealed the biological importance and therapeutic benefit of ginkgetin
in medicine, which could be used for the development of effective medicine against human disorders
and associated complications.
Cu2O-TiO2 Composite for Photocatalytic Degradation of Benzene and its Derivatives Using Visible Light
Authors: Nune Satya Vijaya Kumar , Golimidi Ravi Kumar
Published: January 2021

Background:

Heterostructured nanocomposites have gained massive attention for their
catalytic properties lately. A wide array of different visible-light-active photocatalysts (VLAPs) have
been extensively studied over the past couple of years to fine-tune the bandgap of various stable semiconductors.

Objective:

The current investigation reports the sensitization of TiO2 nanoparticles with nano-sized
cuprous oxide, a well-studied p-type semiconductor, which has a relatively narrow bandgap ranging
between 2.1 eV & 2.6 eV, to obtain a visible light active photocatalyst.

Methods:

Visible-light-active Cu2O–TiO2 nanocomposite was synthesized using solvothermal
technique. The nanocomposite’s structure and size properties were studied using powder diffraction
(XRD), and electron microscopy (FESEM and HRTEM). Cu2O-TiO2 nanocomposite was tested on
benzene, toluene and chlorobenzene in contaminated water, under UV and under visible light, for
effective implementation in photocatalytic degradation of volatile organic contaminants.

Results:

The said nanocomposite was crystalline and found to be 40–50 nm in size. No apparent
change in the crystal lattice of TiO2 was observed due to the introduction of copper ion, and the
nanocomposite also retained a high surface area of 76.28 m2/g. The efficiency of the Cu2O-TiO2
nanoparticles degradation was studied both under UV light and under visible. Cu2O-TiO2 nanoparticles
achieved 97 – 99% degradation of benzene, 92 – 97% degradation of toluene and 95 – 98% degradation
of chlorobenzene in water.

Conclusion:

The said Cu2O–TiO2 nanocomposite is photo-active and showed an overall 95%
degradation within 2 hours of treatment under the visible region.
The Therapeutic Potential of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Articular Cartilage Regeneration in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ding Nan , Li Ermao , Ouyang Xiangbin , Guo Jin , Wei Bo
Published: January 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA), characterized by the degeneration and destruction of articular cartilage,
is one of the most significant public health issues around the world. In the course of OA, inflammatory
response is an important factor leading to cartilage destruction and exacerbation of
symptoms. The low immunogenicity, multi-directional differentiation and high portability properties
make bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) ideal seed cells for OA. Here, we review
recent literature relating to the application of BMSCs for OA cell therapy and consider the following
aspects: migration and homing of BMSCs, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects
of BMSCs, anti-fibrotic effects of BMSCs, the application of biological scaffolds in cartilage
regeneration by BMSCs and chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Injecting BMSCs into joints
with an inflammatory environment may increase the risk of osteoproliferation and ectopic calcification
in patients. Further evidence and studies are needed to ensure the improvement and maintenance
of the intra-articular environment for cartilage repair and regeneration.
Relations between Health Perception and Physical Self-Concept in Adolescents
Authors: Castrillo Pedro Cantero , Villarino M de los Ángeles Fernández , Reboredo M Belén Toja , González Valeiro Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2021

Background:

Self-rated health is influenced by personal characteristics, such as gender and age. Similarly, it seems that physical self-concept can influence this perception, being positively related to healthy habits and quality of life. Adolescence is a sensitive stage in establishing the physical self-concept as well as in health-related behaviours. Therefore, it is necessary to study these relationships since the behaviours established at these ages will have a lasting impact on life.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to analyse the relation between physical self-concept and self-rated health in adolescents.

Methods:

A sample of 1697 adolescents (824 boys; 48.5% and 873 girls; 51.5%), aged between 12 and 16 years old (14.2 ±1.0) participated in the study. For data collection, a questionnaire was used. The measured variables were perception of health, physical self-concept and gender. A chi-square test was used to analyse the data and evaluate the association between the variables, and Cramer´s V was used to quantify the degree of association. A Classification and Regression Tree (CART) evaluation was applied to discover the influence of the variables that have an effect on the perception of health.

Results:

The results show that boys perceive to have better health and greater physical self-concept than girls. Similarly, a positive relationship has been found between the health´s perception in both genders and the physical self-concept, in each of its subdomains.

Conclusion:

A positive relationship has been found between health perception and physical self-concept. Therefore, an increase in the physical self-concept is presented as an opportunity to improve health self-perception, which can positively affect the health of young people.
A Research Perspective on CMOS Current Mirror Circuits: Configurations and Techniques
Authors: Rajendran Selvakumar , Chakrapani Arvind , Kannan Srihari , Ansari Abdul Quaiyum
Published: January 2021

Background:

Immense growth in the field of VLSI technology is fuelled by its feasibility
to realize analog circuits in μm and nm technology. The current mirror (CM) is a basic building
block used to enhance performance characteristics by constructing complex analog/mixed-signal
circuits like amplifier, data converters and voltage level converters. In addition, the current mirror
finds diverse applications from biasing to current-mode signal processing.

Methods:

In this paper, the Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technologybased
current mirror (CM) circuits are discussed with their advantages and disadvantages accompanied
by the performance analysis of different parameters. It also briefs various techniques which
are employed for improvising the current mirror performance like gain boosting and bandwidth extension.
Besides, this paper lists the CMs that use different types of MOS devices like Floating
Gate MOS, Bulk-driven MOS, and Quasi-Floating Gate MOS. As a result, the paper performs a detailed
review of CMOS Current mirrors and their techniques.

Results:

Basic CM circuits that can act as building blocks in the VLSI circuits are simulated using
0.25 μm, BSIM and Level 1 technology. In addition, various devices based CMs are investigated
and compared.

Conclusion:

The comprehensive discussion shows that the current mirror plays a significant role in
analog/mixed-signal circuits design to realize complex systems for low-power biomedical and
wireless applications.
The potential interaction of statins and clopidogrel in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors:   Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia, et al. Ibrahim
Published: January 2021

Clopidogrel is widely used for patients with acute coronary syndrome. It is a pro-drug that requires bioactivation by several cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, mainly CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 enzymes. Lipophilic statins such as atorvastatin are used concomitantly with clopidogrel due to their beneficial effects on morbidity and mortality in the arena of cardiovascular diseases. However, lipophilic statins are eliminated by CYP3A4 and undergo the same metabolic pathway of clopidogrel. Hence, statins may compete with clopidogrel for CYP3A4 enzyme resulting in diminishing the anti-platelet effect of clopidogrel. We aimed to study the impact of concomitant statin therapy on clopidogrel efficacy in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) evaluate the clinical relevance of potential clopidogrel and statins interaction and association between use of statins and risk of future adverse cardiac events. A cross-sectional retrospective cohort study was conducted on 50 patients attending Prince Sultan Cardiac Center for follow-up after PCI. All patients discharged on clopidogrel, aspirin, and atorvastatin were later divided into two groups according to the occurrence of MACEs. Statistical analysis was performed by Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS; V. 21.0). This study was on adult and geriatric males (72%)and female (28%). More than half of them exhibited major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), of which 48% exhibited it after 4 to 6 months from PCI indexing followed by 1 to 3 months (34%), and the least after 7 to 9 months. A significant association arises between gender and MACEs (P=0.042). Moreover, the average age was significantly higher in patients who experience MACEs compared to others (62.7 vs. 55.4, P=0.037). Regarding comorbidities, hypertension increased in patients with MACEs (73.1%) compared to those without MACEs (45.8%). The average duration of taking clopidogrel was significantly shorter in patients with MACEs compared to those who did not (3.42 vs. 5.54 months, P<0.001). According to the findings of this study, atorvastatin affects clopidogrel efficacy in patients undergoing PCI.
Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis of Huntington's Disease
Authors:   Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, PO Box 1475,6201 BL Maastricht, The Netherlands, Geraedts Joep P.M.
Published: January 2021

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant disease that immensely impacts the affected families. However, the transmission of the disease from carriers to their offspring could be prevented. Prenatal diagnosis (PND) and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) are the only two available reproductive options for the carriers at risk to have disease-free children. PND for HD could be done through two kinds of genetic testing: direct and indirect. The same approaches are available for preimplantation genetic testing. In addition, a third alternative is nondisclosure testing, which is only available in the case of PGD. The pros and cons of different approaches are discussed. However, only a relatively few at-risk parents opt for PND and PGD. Furthermore, compared to PND, PGD is even more seldom opted for as a reproductive option.
Development and Feasibility of a Family-Based Health Behavior Intervention Using Intelligent Personal Assistants: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Carlin Angela , Logue Caomhan , Flynn Jonathan , Murphy Marie H , Gallagher Alison M
Published: January 2021

Background

Intelligent personal assistants such as Amazon Echo and Google Home have become increasingly integrated into the home setting and, therefore, may facilitate behavior change via novel interactions or as an adjunct to conventional interventions. However, little is currently known about their potential role in this context.

Objective

This feasibility study aims to develop the Intelligent Personal Assistant Project (IPAP) and assess the acceptability and feasibility of this technology for promoting and maintaining physical activity and other health-related behaviors in both parents and children.

Methods

This pilot feasibility study was conducted in 2 phases. For phase 1, families who were attending a community-based weight management project were invited to participate, whereas phase 2 recruited families not currently receiving any additional intervention. Families were randomly allocated to either the intervention group (received a smart speaker for use in the family home) or the control group. The IPAP intervention aimed to promote positive health behaviors in the family setting through utilization of the functions of a smart speaker and its linked intelligent personal assistant. Data were collected on recruitment, retention, outcome measures, intervention acceptability, device interactions, and usage.

Results

In total, 26 families with at least one child aged 5 to 12 years were recruited, with 23 families retained at follow-up. Across phase 1 of the intervention, families interacted with the intelligent personal assistant a total of 65 times. Although device interactions across phase 2 of the intervention were much higher (312 times), only 10.9% (34/312) of interactions were coded as relevant (related to diet, physical activity or well-being). Focus groups highlighted that the families found the devices acceptable and easy to use and felt that the prompts or reminders were useful in prompting healthier behaviors. Some further intervention refinements in relation to the timing of prompts and integrating feedback alongside the devices were suggested by families.

Conclusions

Using intelligent personal assistants to deliver health-related messages and information within the home is feasible, with high levels of engagement reported by participating families. This novel feasibility study highlights important methodological considerations that should inform future trials testing the effectiveness of intelligent personal assistants in promoting positive health-related behaviors.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN16792534; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN16792534
Mortality & COVID-19: A Snapshot of a Tertiary Care Facility in Pakistan (Preprint)
Authors: Rana Muhammad Asim , Qayyum Ahad , Hashmi Mubashar , Saif Muhammad Muneeb Ullah , Munir Muhammad Faisal , Pervaiz Rizwan , Hafeez Muhammad Mansoor
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Introduction: Ever since Sars CoV-2 infection has started from China and has taken the shape of pandemic the mortality associated with this disease has been under discussion and hypercoagubility, acute severe respiratory syndrome and sepsis with multi organ failure have been accursed as possible reasons of deaths in cases infected with novel Corona virus. We conducted a retrospective analysis of the cases admitted in our high dependency and Intensive care unit and tried to pinpoint the major cause of mortality in our cases. Methods: This is a single center retrospective study carried out at Bahria International Hospital Lahore over a 3 month period (May 10th to July 10th 2020) in which we analyzed the clinical and biochemical profiles of the COVID-19 patients who died during this period. Results: A total of 108 patients were admitted during this period out of which 11 patients died. 7 of them were men and 4 women. Majority of them had sudden cardiac arrest due to acute coronary syndrome followed by multiorgan dysfunction syndrome and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Conclusion: Acute coronary syndrome due to hypercoagubility was the leading cause of death in our patients.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate major cause of mortality in our COVID 19 cases.

METHODS

This is a single center retrospective study carried out at Bahria International Hospital Lahore over a 3 month period (May 10th to July 10th 2020) in which we analyzed the clinical and biochemical profiles of the COVID-19 patients who died during this period.

RESULTS

A total of 108 patients were admitted during this period out of which 11 patients died. 7 of them were men and 4 women. Majority of them had sudden cardiac arrest due to acute coronary syndrome followed by multiorgan dysfunction syndrome and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute coronary syndrome due to hypercoagubility was the leading cause of death in our patients.
The Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Physicians, Nurses, and Other Health Care Providers in Alberta: Cross-sectional Survey (Preprint)
Authors: El Gindi Hany , Shalaby Reham , Gusnowski April , Vuong Wesley , Surood Shireen , Hrabok Marianne , Greenshaw Andrew J , Agyapong Vincent
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, threats to mental health, psychological safety, and well-being are evident, particularly among the first responders and the health care staff.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine the prevalence and potential predictors of the likely stress, generalized anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder among health care workers (HCWs).

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was used through a survey link sent to gather demographic information and responses on several self-report scales, including the Perceived Stress Scale, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 among HCWs enrolled in the Text4Hope program.

RESULTS

The result from this study suggests that during the COVID-19 pandemic, HCWs reported a high likelihood of moderate-to-high perceived stress (n=840, 81.2%), moderate-to-severe anxiety (n=369, 38.6%), and depression (n=317, 32.7%) symptoms. Nurses and other HCWs were significantly more likely to report depressive symptoms compared to physicians (F(2, 159.47)=15.89, 95% CI –5.05 to –2.04). Younger age groups of HCWs (≤30 years) were more prone to report likely stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms compared to HCWs 41-50 and >50 years old (odds ratio [OR] 1.82-3.03). Similarly, females and those who reported a lack of social support (separated/divorced and single) among HCWs had a higher likelihood to report likely stress and depressive symptoms, respectively (OR 1.8 and 1.6, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This cross-sectional study explored a high level of mental health burdens during the COVID-19 pandemic among HCWs in Alberta. Levels of psychological symptoms were more noticeable in the female gender and the nursing profession.
Self-Care Needs and Technology Preferences Among Parents in Marginalized Communities: Participatory Design Study (Preprint)
Authors: Yuwen Weichao , Duran Miriana , Tan Minghui , Ward Teresa M , Cheng Sunny Chieh , Ramirez Magaly
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Ten million parents provide unpaid care to children living with chronic conditions, such as asthma, and a high percentage of these parents are in marginalized communities, including racial and ethnic minority and low-income families. There is an urgent need to develop technology-enabled tailored solutions to support the self-care needs of these parents.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to use a participatory design approach to describe and compare Latino and non-Latino parents’ current self-care practices, needs, and technology preferences when caring for children with asthma in marginalized communities.

METHODS

The participatory design approach was used to actively engage intended users in the design process and empower them to identify needs and generate design ideas to meet those needs.

RESULTS

Thirteen stakeholders participated in three design sessions. We described Latino and non-Latino parents’ similarities in self-care practices and cultural-specific preferences. When coming up with ideas of technologies for self-care, non-Latino parents focused on improving caregiving stress through journaling, daily affirmations, and tracking feelings, while Latino parents focused more on relaxation and entertainment.

CONCLUSIONS

Considerations need to be taken beyond language differences when developing technology-enabled interventions for diverse populations. The community partnership approach strengthened the study’s inclusive design.
Pengaruh Ukuran Ovarium dan Folikel Terhadap Penampilan Reproduksi pada Sapi Po dan Simpo di Kecamatan Jatinom, Kabupaten Klaten
Authors: Priyo Jr Topas Wicaksono , Budiyanto Agung , Kusumawati Asmarani
Published: January 2021

The increasing beef cattle population in Indonesia is not significantly with high demand of meat every year. The insignificant increasing in population is caused by fertility decreasing, infectious disease and the reduction amount of forage land. The factor which causes cattle fertility decreasing can’t be separated from the ovarian and follicular diameter which have an effect on high various reproductive appearance. Parameters that use for knowing reproductive appearance of cattle are Service per Conception (S/C) and Calving Interval (CI). The aims of this study is to describe ovary sizes and follicular diameter in cattle, to describe ovary and follicular diameter toward S/C and CI variation. This research uses female cattle, 8 SimmentalPO (SimPO) and 9 Ongole breeds (PO), multiparous, are not pregnant, 4-8 years old, Body Condition Score (BCS) 2.5-3.5, peak phase estrus, has no reproductive problems, clear recordings and live in the area of farmer in Jatinom District, Klaten Regency, Central Java Province. Cattle are examined for ovarian size and follicle size using ultrasonography. S/C and CI data were obtained from records of artificial insemination cards (AI). The data obtained were analyzed by t test. The results of this study showed there were no differences in the diameter of ovaries in the size of SimPO and PO cattle (P> 0.05), there were no differences in the diameter of SimPO and PO cattle follicles (> 0.05), there were differences in ovarian and follicular diameter sizes with respect to S/C and CI in cattle with good and bad reproductive performance (P <0.05). The conclusion of the study showed that there was no difference in ovarian and follicular diameter size in SimPO and PO cattle (P> 0.05) but there was an influence on S/C and CI (P <0.05).
OBSERVATION OF UTERINE INVOLUTION IN ETAWA CROSSBREED GOATS (Capra hircus) USING TRANSCUTANEUS ULTRASONOGRAPHY
Authors: Melia Juli , Wannisa Ayu , Siregar Tongku Nizwan , Hafizuddin Hafizuddin , Panjaitan Budianto , Sayuti Arman , Syafruddin Syafruddin
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to observe the uterine involution of Etawa crossbreed (PE) goat using transcutaneous ultrasonography (USG). This study used four postpartum female goats that released placenta normally. The goats were examined on lateral recumbence position. Uterine involution was observed daily. The study began from the first day of postpartum period until there were no more reduction of uterine horns lumen diameter. From the 1st to 7th day of postpartum period, ultrasound imaging of the uterine wall showed caruncle which was hypoechoic, lumen of uterine filled with lochia (the image was hypoechoic to anechoic) and a clearly visible uterine horns lumen which had decreased in diameter from 105.9 ± 0.9 mm to 87.2 ± 4.6 mm. From the 8th day to the 14th day, lumen diameter had decreased from 80.4 ± 3.8 mm to 63.6 ± 3.2 mm. The presence of caruncle was reduced and the amount of lochia was decreased (anechoic). From the 15th day to the 21st day, lumen diameter had decreased from 61.4 ± 2.1 mm to 52.1 ± 2.7 mm, and the remnants of caruncle and lochia were still visible. From the 22nd day to the 26th day, the diameter of the uterine wall had decreased from 49.7 ± 0.6 mm to 41.5 ± 6.7 mm, and the lochia and caruncle were no longer visible. From the 26th to the 30th day, uterine horns lumen diameter had still decreased from 41.5 ± 6.7 mm to 31.7 ± 0.9 mm. Uterine horns lumen diameter size had decreased every day, stabilized on the 30th day, and ceased to decrease on the 31st day, where the diameter size was the same as on the 30th day postpartum (31.7 ± 0.9 mm). It can be concluded that the duration of uterine involution in PE goats, which had normal delivery is 30-31 days.
Karakteristik Avibacterium paragallinarum Isolat Lapang : Inokulasi pada Telur Ayam Berembrio umur 7 hari
Authors: Imanjati Lynda Nugrahaning , Adrenalin Sruti Listra , Fauziah Ima , Prakasita Vinsa Cantya , Widyarini Sitarina , Wahyuni Agnesia Endang Tri Hastuti
Published: January 2021

Infectious coryza (IC) adalah penyakit bakterial yang menyerang saluran pernapasan ayam, yang dapat bersifat akut sampai kronis yang disebabkan Avibacterium paragallinarum. IC merusak saluran pernapasan bagian atas, terutama rongga hidung. Pengamatan perubahan makroskopik pada embrio yang mengalami kematian setelah inokulasi pada telur ayam berembrio (TAB) specific pathogenic free (SPF) sebagai salah satu karakteristik isolat A. paragallinarum belum banyak dilakukan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui karakteristik isolat A. paragallinarum melalui inokulasi pada telur ayam berembrio TAB SPF umur 7 hari. TAB SPF umur 7 hari berjumlah 50 butir dibagi menjadi 5 kelompok masing-masing terdiri dari 10 butir yaitu kelompok kontrol negatif, A. paragallinarum serotipe A/221; serotipe B/Spross; serotipe B/2448; dan serotipe C/2447. Bakteri terlebih dahulu dikultur pada media cair dan diinkubasi selama 24 jam pada suhu 37oC. Suspensi bakteri dengan volume 0,2 ml (6x108 cfu/ml) diinjeksikan pada TAB SPF, diinkubasi pada suhu 37oC dan diamati adanya kematian sebanyak 2 kali sehari. Embrio yang mati dilakukan skoring perubahan makroskopik. Embrio yang berasal dari TAB SPF pada kelompok yang diinokulasi A. paragallinarum serotipe A/ 221, B/Spross, B/2448, and C/2447 mengalami hemoragi dan kekerdilan. Keseluruhan isolat A. paragallinarum bersifat patogen pada telur ayam berembrio.
Social Determinants of Health and Race Disparities in Kidney Transplant
Authors: Wesselman Hannah , Ford Christopher Graham , Leyva Yuridia , Li Xingyuan , Chang Chung-Chou H. , Dew Mary Amanda , Kendall Kellee , Croswell Emilee , Pleis John R. , Ng Yue Harn , Unruh Mark L. , Shapiro Ron , Myaskovsky Larissa
Published: January 2021

Background and objectives

Black patients have a higher incidence of kidney failure but lower rate of deceased- and living-donor kidney transplantation compared with White patients, even after taking differences in comorbidities into account. We assessed whether social determinants of health (e.g., demographics, cultural, psychosocial, knowledge factors) could account for race differences in receiving deceased- and living-donor kidney transplantation.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Via medical record review, we prospectively followed 1056 patients referred for kidney transplant (2010–2012), who completed an interview soon after kidney transplant evaluation, until their kidney transplant. We used multivariable competing risk models to estimate the cumulative incidence of receipt of any kidney transplant, deceased-donor transplant, or living-donor transplant, and the factors associated with each outcome.

Results

Even after accounting for social determinants of health, Black patients had a lower likelihood of kidney transplant (subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.55 to 0.99) and living-donor transplant (subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.26 to 0.95), but not deceased-donor transplant (subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% confidence interval, 0.67 to 1.26). Black race, older age, lower income, public insurance, more comorbidities, being transplanted before changes to the Kidney Allocation System, greater religiosity, less social support, less transplant knowledge, and fewer learning activities were each associated with a lower probability of any kidney transplant. Older age, more comorbidities, being transplanted before changes to the Kidney Allocation System, greater religiosity, less social support, and fewer learning activities were each associated with a lower probability of deceased-donor transplant. Black race, older age, lower income, public insurance, higher body mass index, dialysis before kidney transplant, not presenting with a potential living donor, religious objection to living-donor transplant, and less transplant knowledge were each associated with a lower probability of living-donor transplant.

Conclusions

Race and social determinants of health are associated with the likelihood of undergoing kidney transplant.
Separation of quantum, spatial quantum, and approximate quantum correlations
Authors: Beigi Salman
Published: January 2021

Quantum nonlocal correlations are generated by implementation of local quantum measurements on spatially separated quantum subsystems. Depending on the underlying mathematical model, various notions of sets of quantum correlations can be defined. In this paper we prove separations of such sets of quantum correlations. In particular, we show that the set of bipartite quantum correlations with four binary measurements per party becomes strictly smaller once we restrict the local Hilbert spaces to be finite dimensional, i.e., Cq(4,4,2,2)≠Cqs(4,4,2,2). We also prove non-closure of the set of bipartite quantum correlations with four ternary measurements per party, i.e., Cqs(4,4,3,3)≠Cqa(4,4,3,3).
Searching for Coherent States: From Origins to Quantum Gravity
Authors: Martin-Dussaud Pierre
Published: January 2021

We discuss the notion of coherent states from three different perspectives: the seminal approach of Schrödinger, the experimental take of quantum optics, and the theoretical developments in quantum gravity. This comparative study tries to emphasise the connections between the approaches, and to offer a coherent short story of the field, so to speak. It may be useful for pedagogical purposes, as well as for specialists of quantum optics and quantum gravity willing to embed their perspective within a wider landscape.
ASSESSMENT OF MATHEMATICS TEACHERS’ PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE
Authors: Podkhodova Nataliya , Snegurova Viktoria , Stefanova Natalia , Triapitsyna Alla , Pisareva Svetlana
Published: January 2021

Development of students’ mathematical skills is associated with quality teaching, which means that mathematics teachers should be able to successfully solve mathematical, teaching, and professional problems. The article aims to describe the assessment system of mathematics school teachers’ professional competence, which helps identify gaps in their training and design tailor-made retraining courses. 2,359 mathematics teachers from 13 regions of Russia participated in the research on 05–29 September 2017. Foremost, we conducted a survey and collected data about their teacher category and teacher expertise. Next, we provided a preliminary diagnostic test to enable the participants to self-assess their subject matter and teaching competencies. After that, they completed a three-part diagnostic test to assess their abilities to solve mathematical, teaching, and professional problems. Finally, the participants conducted video lessons. The three-part diagnostic test and video lessons allowed determining the professional competence level for every mathematics teacher. 24% participants showed level I of professional competence, 44% – level II, 9% – level II; 23% participants did not pass the basic level of professional competence. The results show that the mathematics teachers have difficulties in solving mathematical, teaching, or professional problems so tailor-made retraining courses are required. The developed assessment system underlies designing the courses.
Разработка научных и технологических основ нового экологически чистого и безотходного процесса измельчения токопроводящих отходов в порошки микро- и нанофракций
Authors: Агеева Екатерина Владимировна , Агеев Евгений Викторович , Гвоздев Александр Евгеньевич , Кузовлева Ольга Владимировна
Published: January 2021

В работе представлена реализация технологии электроэрозионного измельчения на примере отходов твердых сплавов. Показано, что мощность электроконтактных тепловых источников может быть достаточной для реализации процесса электроэрозионного диспергирования. Получены зависимости, позволяющие выполнить расчетную оценку фракционного состава порошкового материала, получаемого в условиях действия электроконтактных тепловых источников.