bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants in Yilmana Densa and Quarit Districts, West Gojjam, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Alemneh Derebe
Published: September 2020

Background: Traditional herbal preparations for addressing human diseases and ailments have been applied in Yilmana Densa and Quarit Districts, Ethiopia, for generations. However, the medicinal knowledge of the community and the plants are subjected to loss without being scientifically documented due to anthropogenic factors. Hence, this study aims at providing a comprehensive documentation on medicinal plant knowledge of the people to conserve the knowledge and medicinal plants of the areas.Methods: Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, field observation and market survey were used to collect ethnobotanical data. All semi-structured interviews were followed by independent walk in the woods exercises. Field observations were performed with the help of local guides. The data analysis methods were informant consensus factor and fidelity level, frequency and cultural significance indices, preference and direct matrix ranking exercises. Results: A total of 112 medicinal plants were reported. Fabaceae was represented with highest species. Leaves were the primary source of remedy. Most remedy was prepared by pounding and administered orally. Miscellaneous, central nervous and digestive system diseases were recorded with highest informant agreements while Dodonia angustifolia, Dovyalis abyssinica, Hagenia abyssinica, Nigella sativa and Urtica simensis were recorded with highest healing potential for malaria, tapeworm, cough, stomach ulcer respectively. Phytolacca dodecandra, Trigonella foenum-graecum, and Carissa spinarum and Croton macrostachyus were recorded with highest frequency, use, and cultural values respectively. Verbascum sinaiticum was the most preferred to treat blood pressure Conclusion: The study indicated that indigenous knowledge on medicinal plant use is still rich and active in the Districts. Species with recorded highest consensus for curative role are a useful pool for further phytochemical and pharmacological validation for better utilization. Declining medicinal flora of the area calls for implementation of a coordinated complementary in situ and ex situ conservation strategy.
Noise-Free Estimation of Temporal Change in Seismic Wave Attenuation Using High-Stable Vibration Sources.
Authors: Tsuji Shuhei , Yamaoka Koshun , Ikuta Ryoya
Published: September 2020

We developed a method to detect changes in attenuation in transfer functions obtained by precisely controlled artificial seismic sources, namely Accurately Controlled Routinely Operated Signal System (ACROSS), and applied it to monitor the temporal changes for in-situ data collected by previous studies. Our method, together with the usage of the ACROSS sources, is less susceptible to change in noise level to which conventional methods such as envelope calculation suffer. The method utilizes the noise level that is independently estimated in the frequency domain. Thus, we can eliminate the influence of the noise by subtracting it from the observed signal. To test the performance, we applied this method to a dataset obtained at Awaji Island, Japan from 2000 to 2001. We detected the changes in amplitude with several causes including ground motion in an earthquake and water injection experiment. At the 2000 Western Tottori earthquake (MW = 6.6, Epicenter distance of 165 km), a sudden decrease in amplitude up to 5% followed by gradual recovery are clearly observed. These coseismic changes in amplitude are consistent with the opening of fluid-filled cracks as proposed by previous studies. We convert the amplitude change into ΔQ-1, which gives similar values as reported by previous studies using natural earthquakes. Increases in amplitude up to 5% associated with water injection experiments are also observed. During these experiments, the amplitude increased several days after the beginning of the injection and recovered to the previous level. This may be the result of a stress increase caused by the injection followed by a saturation increase by water diffusion.
An approach towards developments of smart COVID-19 patient's management and triaging using blockchain framework
Authors: Lahiri Pralay Kumar , Mandal Riman , Banerjee Sourav , Biswas Utpal
Published: September 2020

The explosive epidemic of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has exposed the constraints in health care systems to handle public health emergencies. It's evident that adopting innovative technologies reminiscent of blockchain will facilitate in eective designing operations and resource deployments. Within the health care sector to improve the information management system by reducing delays in regulative approvals, communication between dierent stakeholders of the chain with the help of blockchain technology. To ensure authenticity of the information collected from public and government agencies, blockchain based system plays an important role. This paper tends to review implementation of blockchain application and opportunities in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. To trace according information involving in recent cases, deaths and recovered cases maintaining through blockchain storage system that has been proposed and implemented blockchain system based on Ethereum smart contract. An interactive model and respective algorithm has been explained with detailed analysis on information integrity, security, transparency and traceability.
IgG Subclass Expression in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Tang Xuanli , Jiang Xue , Wan Feng , Li Xiaohong , Yang Ruchun , Zhu Bin , Li Yayu , Yang Haichun
Published: September 2020

Background: This study aimed to analyze the distribution of IgG subclasses in diabetic nephropathy (DN) and its association with clinico-pathological features. Methods: Forty DN cases were analyzed to identify IgG subclasses, as well as collagen IV α5, CD34, and KIM-1.Results: Both IgG and its subclasses showed a linear expression and overlapped with collagen IV α5 on glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and some of tubular basement membrane (TBM), without complement deposition. Eleven cases of IgG subclass deposition along both GBM and TBM were associated with more proteinuria. Five cases of TBM-only IgG subclass deposition were accompanied with less KIM-1 positivity and more arteriosclerosis. The major IgG subclasses expressed on GBM were IgG1 and IgG2, while TBM expression was mainly IgG1 and IgG3. Glomerular IgG1-positive status was associated with less CD34 expression, while IgG2-positive status was associated with thicker GBM. Expression of multiple IgG subclasses along TBM showed less KIM-1 positivity and interstitial inflammation than those with isotype or no IgG subclass expression.Conclusions: IgG subclasses were selectively deposited along GBM and TBM in DN, which was determined by their profiles and severity of glomerular/tubular injury. IgG and its subclass deposition is not causal, but the consequence of renal injury and these positive statuses are associated with different DN injuries.
Integration Of Statistical Techniques For Improving Contact Tracing Efforts To Stop The Spread Of Covid-19 Cases In Nigeria
Authors: M  , S Adekeye. K. , O.A Wale-Orojo. , O Ajayi. A. , A Ogunsola. I. , H Ekong. A.
Published: September 2020

COVID-19 is battling with many countries in the world, including Nigeria, and it has affected various sectors. Contact tracing technique without Statisticians in the team as recommended by WHO is being used in Nigeria to curb the spread of COVID-19 virus, yet confirmed cases is on the increase daily. This study proposed the integration of Statistical techniques for improving contact tracing efforts to stop the spread of the virus. A fitted model using the R package, and Adaptive Cluster Sampling mechanism was embedded. Parameters of the model were estimated using Markov Chain Monte-Carlo (MCMC) Algorithm with Winbugs software. Trace plot and correlogram were used for MCMC diagnostics to examine the goodness of fit of the model. The fitted model was used to obtain a predictive distribution for predicting the estimated number of COVID-19 carriers in Nigeria. The model has a good fit since It converged to the representation of the target posterior within the 95% highest posterior density (HPD) interval, its chains mixed well, and autocorrelation is quite similar at each lag. Estimated number of COVID-19 carriers were well estimated and higher in each state than confirmed cases. The present contact tracing process is inefficient to track COVID-19 carriers, hence integrated contact tracing technique with the involvement of Statisticians was recommended. .
Regular Feedback on the Inter-hospital Transfer Improved the Quality and Survival in Patients with Multiple Trauma: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Chih Jung , Yang Tsung-Han , Hung Kuo-Hsu , Wu Chun-Hsien , Yen Shu-Ting , Yen Yi-Ting , Shan Yan-Shen
Published: September 2020

Background: Under-triage of major trauma patients has been unavoidable, especially in the trauma system of rural area. Timely stabilization and transfer of critical trauma patients remains a great challenge for hospitals limited in resources for major trauma management. No definitive measure has been proved to improve the outcome of transferred major trauma patients. Current study hypothesized that regular feedback on inter-hospital transfer of patients with major trauma can improve care quality and outcome.Method: This retrospective cohort study retrieved the transferred trauma patients with injury severity score(ISS) ≥ 16 between Jan 2010 and Dec 2018 from the trauma registry databank of a tertiary medical center. Regular monthly feedback on inter-hospital transfer was initiated since 2014. The patients were divided into the without-feedback group and the with-feedback group. The demographic data, management before transfer, and outcome after transfer were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 178 patients were included; 69 patients in the without-feedback and 109 in the with-feedback group. The with-feedback group had higher ISS (25 vs 27, p = 0.049), and more patients needing massive transfusion (14.49% vs 29.36%, p = 0.036). After adjusted for confounding factors, the with-feedback group was associated with higher rate of blood transfusion before transfer (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.75, 95% CI [1.01-7.52], p = 0.049), shorter time span before blood transfusion (-31.80 ± 15.14, p = 0.038), and decreased mortality risk (aOR 0.33, 95% CI [0.13-0.83], p = 0.019).Conclusion: This retrospective cohort study revealed that regular feedback on inter-hospital transfer improved the quality of blood transfusion and was associated with decreased mortality risk.
Empowering Researchers and Knowledge-producing Organizations for Evidence-informed Health Policy Making: Interventions in the Iranian Health System
Authors: Doshmangir Leila , mostafavi hakimeh , Majdzadeh Reza
Published: September 2020

Background: Providing appropriate information to policymakers by strengthening evidence-based capacity is a key factor in the development of evidence-based policy making (EIPM). This study aims to examine the necessary interventions in the Iranian health system for empowering researchers and knowledge-producing organizations to strengthen EIPM.Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using interviews and document review. The views and experiences of enterviewees were extracted through semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling was used and continued until data saturation. Thematic framework analysis and MAXQDA 12 software were used for data analysis.Results: Necessary interventions for empowering researchers and knowledge-producing organizations were categorized into health system interventions, community-based interventions, organization interventions, and individual interventions.Conclusion: Incompatibility of health policy decisions with scientific evidence derived from research highlights the importance of creating a common language among health policymakers and researchers. In this regard, developing scientific and practical interventions, educating health researchers on knowledge translation, and using mechanisms and networks for effective interaction will be constructive.
Repurposing of FDA approved drugs targeting Main protease MPro for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Tiwari Suryakant , Jain Raghav , Banerjee Indrani
Published: September 2020

SARS-CoV-2 is one of the greatest pandemics in the history. There is no medicine or vaccine yet discovered to control the outbreak. The paper deals with repurposing existing drugs to control the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 virus.Ten FDA-approved drugs namely Indinavir, Nelfinavir, Letermovir, Irinotecan, Elbasvir, Saquinavir, Darunavir, Raltegravir, Atazanavir and Amprenavir were studied. In silico methods for virtual screening of protein-ligand docking of these drugs against SARS-CoV-2 MPro was performed. The binding efficiency of the drugs against viral main protease MPro was significantly high to inhibit SARS-CoV-2.The results confirmed that Atazanavir, Nelfinavir, and Letermovir not only occupied the active site of Mpro but also showed increased binding affinity (-10.36 kcal/mole, -9.47 kcal/mole and -9.43 kcal/mole) even more than of control drugs of Lopinavir (-8.71 kcal/mole) and Ritonavir (-8.08 kcal/mole). These repurposed drugs can be used in combination or individually as an alternative approach for rapid drug discovery against SARS-CoV-2
Protein Coding of Variations on SARS-CoV-2 Genomes in Various Regions
Authors: Li Tao , Zheng Jeffrey
Published: September 2020

In this paper, COVID-19 cases in different regions are used for comparison. The related genomes of SARS-CoV-2 are segmented and replaced with sequence operations under protein coding scheme on the A3 module of the MAS. Using protein coding schemes, genomes are transformed and projected as measuring sequences as a vector that can be visualized in maps from two different perspectives: the elements of the gene sequence and the position of the element sequence, so as to interpret the genome more comprehensively. Through a series of linear diagrams, it is convenient to compare and analyze the genomes of the samples collected in different regions more intuitively, which may be conducive to further data mining of genomic information and refined explorations of COVID-19 for patients.
Pneumococcal Diseases Caused by Serotype Replacement in Colombia: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in Infants and Its Herd Protection in Older Adults
Authors: Ordóñez Jaime E. , Ordóñez Angélica
Published: September 2020

Background. The recent and available evidence on the distribution of pneumococcal serotypes, which affects the effectiveness of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV), suggest that additional health economic studies will be important for better understanding of potential economic benefits of pneumococcal vaccination. Methods A cohort simulation model was used for new births in Colombia between 2019-2022 and adults over 65 years, from social perspective (direct and indirect costs). The time horizon was a life expectancy and discount rate for costs and benefits of 5%. The outcomes were presented in terms of avoided pneumococcal diseases ─ Invasive Pneumococcal Disease (IPD), Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP), Acute Otitis Media (AOM), and sequelae─, years of life gained (AVG) and herd effect in older adults.Results. Based on data from National Data of the serotype distribution between 2017-2019, PCV10 covers 5% of serotypes while PCV13 63%. The additional cases that PCV13 would prevent are in children: 1,205 cases of IPD, 60,274 of CAP, 26,619 of AOM, 3,980 deaths, 28 cases of neuromotor disability and 1,251 cochlear implants. In older adults, PCV13 would prevent 818 additional cases of IPD and 29,983 of CAP, generating 149,186 additional LYGs to those of PCV10 with a saving to the health system and patients of US $ 169,261 thousand. The model shows robustness in the sensibility analysis.Conclusion. PCV13 is a cost-saving strategy versus PCV10 to prevent pneumococcal diseases.
Muscle toxicity induced by intravenous voriconazole in a cryptogenic organizing pneumonia patient misdiagnosed as suspected pulmonary fungal infection
Authors: Wang Jiajia , Zhou Xingbo , Su Nan , Wang Xiaofei , Zhang Xiaohui , Lei Wei , Huang Jian-an
Published: September 2020

Background Although voriconazole is a widely used azole antifungal agent in clinical practice, its side effect of muscle toxicity is extremely rare. The present study demonstrates an adverse effect of progressive myotoxicity induced by intravenous voriconazole in a cryptogenic organizing pneumonia patient misdiagnosed as suspected pulmonary fungal infection.Case presentation A 78-year-old male was admitted to our hospital due to recurrent cough and expectoration for four months. His previous chest CT scan indicated alveolar opacities and multiple cavitary nodules in the right lower lobe. Pulmonary fungal infection was considered due to weakly positive results of serum galactomannan and 1,3 β-D-glucan test,with no evidence of malignant tumor, tuberculosis, or Wegener's granulomatosis. The patient experienced diffuse myalgia with significantly elevated muscle enzymes after voriconazole administration for 13 days, and recovered uneventfully due to immediate voriconazole cessation and enhanced intravenous fluid infusion. Furthermore, the pulmonary cavitary nodules were consistent with the pathological findings of cryptogenic organizing pneumonia.Conclusions Voriconazole-associated myotoxicity should be considered when a patient presents with evidence of muscle injury during voriconazole administration. Morever, although invasive pulmonary fungal infection can often show multiple nodules with cavities in CT scan, the initiation of anti-fungal agents should be cautious before the pathological features of multiple cavitary nodules are identified, in order to avoid potential serious adverse events.
Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Using Knowledge Brokers in Canadian Rehabilitation Settings: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Gaid Dina , Ahmed Sara , Thomas Aliki , Bussières André
Published: September 2020

Background: Knowledge translation experts advocate for employing knowledge brokers (KBs) to promote the uptake of research evidence in health care settings. However, little is known about factors influencing the utilization of KBs, thereby limiting their employment within healthcare organizations. This research aimed to identify factors likely to hinder or promote the optimal use of KBs within rehabilitation settings in Canada.Methods: Qualitative study using semi-structured telephone interviews with individuals performing KB activities in rehabilitation settings across Canada. The interview topic guide was informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and consisted of 20 questions covering five domains (characteristics of individuals, inner setting, process, outer settings, and innovation characteristics). All interviews lasted 60 to 90 minutes, were digitally recorded, and transcribed verbatim. We conducted qualitative descriptive analysis combining deductive coding guided by the CFIR. Two independent analysts coded and rated all interviews, then met to review, deliberate and modify the codes as appropriate. A matrix was created by listing the salient codes for each CFIR construct to identify factors (facilitators and barriers) at the individual, organisational, and process level most likely to impact the KB’s success/failure.Results: Twenty-three participants, from five Canadian provinces were interviewed. At the individual level, the majority of participants reported having strong communication skills, being confident about performing KBs activities, and possessing solid clinical experience and prior research skills. At the organizational level, most respondents indicated constantly networking and engaging with clinical teams and different stakeholders, and having an acceptable level of guidance from their managers. Very few participants felt that they received sufficient organizational support (i.e., clerical support and IT support). At the process level, all participants indicated needing evaluation tools to better gauge their performance, and the majority mentioned that they would benefit from having additional training tailored to their roles as KBs.Conclusions: Individual, organisational and process level factors likely to hinder or promote the optimal use of KBs within Canadian rehabilitation settings include skillsets and networking abilities; culture, resources, and leadership support; and the need for specific training for KBs and for evaluation tools to monitor their performance.
COVID-19 and African immigrants in North Africa; A hidden pandemic in a violent region.
Authors: Daw Mohamed A , El-Bouzedi Abdallah H , Ahmed Mohamed O
Published: September 2020

Since being declared a pandemic in March 2020, COVID-19 has brought difficult situations for citizens of nations worldwide. The effects, however, may be more severe for vulnerable communities such as immigrants, who are already in desperate situations and under deteriorating conditions. There are still very limited data on how the pandemic is impacting immigrant communities. Immigrant camps are fostering an environment that poses a great threat to the health of their inhabitants, especially at the time of a pandemic. Overcrowding, poor sanitation, inadequate healthcare, and difficulty containing contagious diseases are well documented in African immigration detention centers [1]. Furthermore, they are unlikely to take priority in a moment in which governments are mobilizing all resources to care for their citizens. Their situation is even more complicated if they are hosted in courtiers plugged by war, as in North Africa[2,3].
Cognitive Rehabilitation Interventions After Stroke: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhao Qing , Wang Xue , Wang Tao , Dmytriw Adam A. , Zhang Xiao , Yang Kun , Luo Jichang , Bai Xuesong , Jiang Nan , Yang Bin , Ma Yan , Jiao Liqun , Xie Yunyan
Published: September 2020

Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of deaths worldwide, and 53.4% of the stroke survivors suffer from post-stroke cognitive impairment. Post-stroke cognitive impairment can increase hospitalization rate and cost of care, and decrease the quality of life of stroke patients. To date, multiple cognitive rehabilitation interventions have been tested in stroke populations with post-stroke cognitive impairment. However, the most efficacious intervention has not been established. This systematic review aims to compare the efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation interventions for patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment.Methods: We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, CINAHL, PubMed and clinical trial registries to identify eligible randomized clinical trials with no restrictions in the date of publication and language. Studies conducted with patient aged 18 or over, with the presence of cognitive impairment after being diagnosed with stroke will be included. Studies will be restricted to randomized controlled trials comparing a cognitive rehabilitation intervention with another intervention. The primary outcome is any clinical changes in general or specific cognitive domain (e.g. executive function, attention, memory or perception). The secondary outcomes that will be collected include adverse effects (e.g. stroke, disability or mortality) and quality of life. Two independent reviewers will assess articles to identify trials eligible for inclusion. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment of the included studies will also be done independently. Any discrepancies will be solved by discussion, or a third reviewer will be consulted if necessary. A meta-analysis will be carried out if appropriate.Discussion: This systematic review for patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment will assess efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation interventions. And our results will help clinical decision-making and support the development of clinical practice guidelines.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020173988
In silico studies suggest T-cell cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 and less dangerous coronaviruses
Authors: Pacholczyk Marcin , Rieske Piotr
Published: September 2020

So far, it is impossible to explain the diverse individual and population responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Many factors may be involved, including genetics, diet, vaccinations, the innate immune response, viral load, and other phenomena. Further, immune responses raised against pathogens other than SARS-CoV-2 (cross-reactivity) may also be involved. In this work, we analyzed the potential for T-cell cross-reactivity between less contagious coronaviruses (HCoV-OC43, HCoV-HKU1, HCoV-229E, and HCoV-NL63) and SARS-CoV-2. In silico research suggests that SARS-CoV-2 and less dangerous coronaviruses share identical peptides, which can be presented on MHC class I molecules. Those T-cells epitopes belong to several coronavirus proteins localized inside the viral envelope, including helicase, RNA polymerase, proofreading exoribonuclease, and 2'-O-methyltransferase. Our data suggest that a milder course of COVID-19, in some populations, may be related to the cross-reactivity of T cells.
DUSP5 expression in left ventricular cardiomyocytes of young hearts regulates thyroid hormone (T3)-induced proliferative ERK1/2 signaling
Authors: Bogush Nikolay , Tan Lin , Naib Hussain , Faizullabhoy Ebrahim , Calvert John W. , Iismaa Siiri E. , Gupta Ankan , Ramchandran Ramani , Martin David I.K. , Graham Robert M. , Husain Ahsan , Naqvi Nawazish
Published: September 2020

A developmental surge in thyroid hormone (T3) after postnatal day-10 (P10), in mice, results in a burst of cardiomyocyte proliferation. This finding remains controversial, which could arise from perceived homogeneity of myocardial sampling for immunoblotting and immunohistochemical studies, or from differences in enzymatic digestion efficiency for cardiomyocyte isolation used to determine total ventricular cardiomyocyte numbers. Using a highly efficient (>97%) method for cardiomyocyte isolation, we show that exogenous T3 administered in vivo to post-neonatal (after postnatal P6) mice increased cardiomyocyte numbers. Using S- and M-phase markers, and lineage-tracing tools to assay for cell cycle activation and cytokinesis, respectively, we show that the T3-mediated increase in cardiomyocytes is confined to cells of the left ventricular (LV) apex; such spatial heterogeneity also being observed during normal development, which might confound substantiation of developmental increases in cardiomyocyte proliferation. In these apical cardiomyocytes, T3 stimulates proliferative ERK1/2 signaling, whereas those in the LV base are tonically inhibited by expression of the nuclear phospho-ERK1/2-specific dual-specificity phosphatase, DUSP5. In P21 Dusp5–/– mice, cardiomyocyte endowment and LV mass are increased relative to age-matched wild-type controls, suggesting that DUSP5 regulates early heart growth. Identification of mechanisms regulating cardiomyocyte proliferation may allow development of cardiac regenerative therapies.
Artificial Intelligence-based Disease Surveillance Amid COVID-19 and Beyond: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Su Zhaohui , Bentley Barry , Shi Feng
Published: September 2020

Background: Infectious diseases are dangerous and deadly. As the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in all demographics across the world, infectious diseases carry substantial social, economic, and healthcare costs. Unlike previous global health crises, health experts now have access to more advanced tools and techniques to understand pandemics like COVID-19 better and faster; one such class of tools is artificial intelligence (AI) enabled disease surveillance systems. AI-based surveillance systems allow health experts to perform rapid mass infection prediction to identify potential disease cases, which is integral to understanding transmission and curbing the spread of the pandemic. However, while the importance of AI-based disease surveillance mechanisms in pandemic control is clear, what is less known is the state-of-the-art application of these mechanisms in countries across the world. Therefore, to bridge this gap, we aim to systematically review the literature to identify (1) how AI-based disease surveillance systems have been applied in counties worldwide amid COVID-19, (2) the characteristics and effects of these applications regarding the control of the spread of COVID-19, and (3) what additional disease surveillance resources such as database, AI-based tools and techniques that can be further added to the current toolbox in the fight against COVID-19. Methods: To locate research on AI-based disease surveillance amid COVID-19, we will search databases including PubMed, IEEE Explore, ACM Digital Library, and Science Direct to identify all potential records. Titles, abstracts, and full-text articles were screened against eligibility criteria developed a priori. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses procedures was adopted as the reporting framework.Results: NA for now Conclusions: Findings of our study will fill an important void in the literature, as no research has systematically reviewed available AI-based disease surveillance in the context of COVID-19. As the world continues to reel from COVID-19, it is important to identify cost-effective AI-based disease surveillance mechanisms that can detect COVID-19 cases and explain how one COVID-19 case turns into many cases, so that better prevention measures can be established to curb the spread of the COVID pandemic in a timely manner. Study Protocol Registration: PROSPERO CRD42020204992
Antiepileptic Drug Exposure during Pregnancy and Neonatal Birth Weight Outcomes: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Authors: Lavu Alekhya , Vaccaro Christine , Shouman Walid , Alessi-Severini Silvia , Eltonsy Sherif
Published: September 2020

Background: The prevalence of epilepsy in pregnant women is estimated at 0.3- 1%. Antiepileptic drug (AED) exposure in-utero has been associated with various adverse health outcomes in neonates including adverse birth weight outcomes. Methods: To summarize the evidence on the association between AED exposure in pregnancy and adverse birthweight outcomes. Studies assessing AED exposure in pregnancy and neonatal birth weight outcome including small for gestational age (SGA), low birth weight (LBW), birth weight (BW), length head circumference and cephalization index will be identified in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CINAHL, IPA, and Global Health. Open grey, Theses Canada and ProQuest Dissertations will be used to locate grey literature. Eligible study designs include experimental and observational studies. Studies will be assessed for risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Meta-analysis will be conducted using a random-effects model. Discussion: The results from this review could improve clinicians’ prescribing decisions by highlighting the safest AEDs for women who are pregnant or planning to conceive based on the best evidence currently available. Systematic review registration: submitted (19/08/2020))
Sex Differences in Muscle Fatigue Following Isokinetic Muscle Contractions
Authors: Gomes Miguel , Santos Paulo , Correia Paulo , Pezarat-Correia Pedro , Mendonca Goncalo V.
Published: September 2020

Muscle fatigue is a limiting factor of human performance. It is unclear whether sex-based differences in fatigability exist during dynamic exercise of varying velocities of contraction. We aimed at exploring sex differences in muscle fatigue elicited by maximal isokinetic muscle contractions performed at different angular velocities. Twenty-six healthy participants (13 men: 23.2 ± 1.5; 13 women: 21.9 ± 3.0 years) were tested for knee-extension at slow, moderate and fast angular velocity (60, 180 and 300º.s-1, respectively). The impact of sex on fatigue resistance and consecutive recovery for each isokinetic condition was explored by calculating the percent change in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and in rate of torque development (RTD), from pre- to post-isokinetic exercise. The isokinetic fatigue index was also determined. No sex differences were obtained in response to isokinetic contractions completed at 60º.s-1. After performing muscle contractions at 300º.s-1, women had a significantly greater loss in MVIC than men (-18.4 ± 5.5 vs. -12.9 ± 3.8%; p = 0.009) and larger decreases in work output during isokinetic exercise (-34.2 ± 8.9 vs -27.5 ± 10.6 %; p = 0.017). Recovery of initial MVIC strength was greater for women post-exercise at 180º.s-1 (6.7 ± 9.5 vs. 15.6 ± 4.1%; p = 0.003). No differences were found between sexes in any condition for RTD from pre- to post- fatigue. These results suggest the presence of a sexually dimorphic fatigability in response to dynamic (isokinetic) contractions favouring men at higher velocities of contraction.
In-hospital mortality trends among patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in the United States between 2013-2017: a comparison of academic and non-academic programs.
Authors: Alqalyoobi Shehabaldin , Pérez MD Evans R. Fernández , Oldham MD Justin M.
Published: September 2020

BackgroundIdiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating condition characterized by progressive lung function decline and early mortality. While early accurate diagnosis is essential for IPF treatment, data evaluating the impact of hospital academic status on IPF-related mortality remains limited. Here we examined in-hospital mortality trends for patients with IPF from 2013-2017. We hypothesized that in-hospital IPF mortality would be influenced by hospital academic setting.MethodsHospitalization data was extracted from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) for subjects with an international classification of disease code for IPF. In-hospital mortality stratified by hospital setting (academic versus non-academic) was the primary outcome of interest, with secondary analyses performed for subgroups with and without respiratory failure and requiring mechanical ventilation. Predictors of mortality were then assessed.ResultsAmong 93,680 patients with IPF requiring hospitalization, 58,450 (62.4%) were admitted to academic institutions. In-hospital mortality decreased significantly in those admitted to an academic hospital (p<0.001) but remained unchanged in patients admitted to a non-academic hospital. A plateau in-hospital mortality was observed among all hospitalized patients (p=0.12), with a significant decrease observed for patients with admitted respiratory failure (p<0.001) and those placed on mechanic ventilation (p<0.001).ConclusionIn-hospital mortality decreased significantly for patients with IPF admitted to an academic hospital, suggesting that management strategies may differ by hospital setting. Mortality among those with respiratory failure and those requiring mechanical ventilation has dropped significantly. Our findings underscore the importance of promoting early referral to an academic institution and adherence to international treatment guidelines.
Çaldıran Fayı’nın Çaldıran İlçesi Dolayında Paleosismolojik ve Neotektonik Özellikleri
Authors: GÜNEYLİ Hakan , YAMAN Müjdat , YILDIRIM Vildan
Published: September 2020

Sağ yanal atımlı Çaldıran Fayı Türkiye’nin Doğu Anadolu bölgesindeki önemli aktif faylarındandır. Fayın 24 Kasım 1976 tarihinde ürettiği yıkıcı deprem önemli hasar ve can kaybına neden olmuş ve 50-55 km yüzey kırığı oluşturmuştur. Çaldıran ilçesi dolayında yüzey deformasyonları ve paleosismolojik kazı esasına dayalı olarak gerçekleştirilen bu çalışmada son depremde oluşan yüzey kırıklarının korunduğu kesimlerin olduğu saptanmıştır. Yüzey ve paleosismolojik çalışmalar Holosen’de bölgede yüzey kırığı oluşturan (M≥7) en az üç depremin olduğunu göstermektedir. Çaldıran dolayında, son depremde 1,5 m sağ yanal ve 30-40 cm düşey ötelenme saptanmıştır. Ayrıca,1696’da Çaldıran bölgesinde meydana gelen depremi [18] Çaldıran Fayı’nın ürettiği kabul edilerek tekrarlanma aralığının 280 yıl; kısa dönem yatay kayma hızının 5,36 mm/yıl-1 düşey kayma hızının ise 1,43 mm/yıl-1 olduğu saptanmıştır.
Optimization of the Effect of Processing Parameters on Surface Roughness and Cutting Energy in CNC Milling of Al-7075 Material
Authors: PINARBAŞI Ali , KÜLEKÇİ Mustafa Kemal , BOĞA Cem , EŞME Uğur
Published: September 2020

In this study, it is intended to determine the most suitable process parameters for surface roughness and cutting energy of the 7075 series aluminum material in dry environment conditions by using Taguchi method in CNC milling. The process parameters were determined as, cutting speed, feed rate and cutting depth and the effects of these parameters on surface roughness, current flow through the grid and the energy consumed were examined. As a result, optimum process parameters were determined and the results were analyzed by graphs. It was observed that the most effective parameter on the surface roughness was the feed rate, while the most effective parameter on the current drawn from the network was the cutting depth. As a result of the experiments, the best surface roughness value was found to be 0.39 µm and the lowest current value was 0.9 A. In addition, considering the determined current amount and processing time, the lowest energy amount consumed was calculated as 7089.28 J.
Paletli Bir Mobil Robotun Modellenmesi ve Bulanık Mantık ile Yörünge Kontrolü
Authors: DOĞMUŞ Osman , GÜNEŞ Mahit
Published: September 2020

Bu çalışmada, paletli otonom bir araç tasarlanmış olup tasarlanan otonom aracın yörünge kontrolü bulanık mantık denetleyici (BMD) kullanılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Çok amaçlı tasarlanan otonom araç, otomatik yönlendirme, belirli bir görevi icra etme, çeşitli ortamlara yük taşıyabilme özelliklerine sahiptir.
Otonom araçların yörünge kontrolünde farklı kontrol teknikleri kullanılmaktadır. Otonom robotun yörünge kontrol yapısının performansını klasik PI denetleyici ile karşılaştırılmış ve kontrol sistemi Matlab/Simulink modeli kullanılarak benzetim çalışmaları gerçekleştirilmiştir. BMD’nin sistemin performansını artırdığı ve daha kararlı bir yapı sağladığı gerçekleştirilen benzetim çalışmaları ile ortaya konulmuştur.
Yüzey Modifikasyonu Yapılmış Isırgan Otu Lifi Takviyeli Polyester Kompozit Üretimi ve Mekanik Özellikleri
Authors: SABIR Emel Ceyhun
Published: September 2020

Bu çalışmada, bir tekstil lifi olarak bilinen ısırgan otu lifi takviyeli polyester kompozit malzeme üretilmiş ve malzemenin mekanik özellikleri araştırılmıştır. Isırgan otu elyafının yüzeyi %1, %3, %5 ve %10 dört farklı oranda NaOH alkali işlemle aşındırılmıştır. Elyafın matrise takviye oranı sabit tutulmuş olup, %30 oranındadır. Lifler boyu yönde taranmış ve şerit formunda kompozit içerisine yerleştirilmiştir. Kompozit malzemeler plakalar halinde RTM teknolojisi ile üretilmiştir. Takviye elemanının kompozitin Çekme dayanımı, 3 nokta eğilme dayanımı ve darbe dayanımına etkileri araştırılmıştır. Isırgan elyafına uygulama alkali işlemin (NaOH) çekme dayanımı düşürdüğü ancak eğme ve darbe dayanımını iyileştirdiği görülmüştür. Çalışma, ısırgan otunun elyaf formunda %30 oranında kompozit malzemede takviye elemanı olarak kullanılabileceğini ortaya koymuştur.
Determinación del impacto socioeconómico de las políticas de inclusión financiera en el municipio de Montería
Authors: Pérez-Vásquez Manuel Antonio , Prieto-Baldovino Francia Helena
Published: September 2020

El presente artículo tiene como propósito central, determinar cuál es el impacto de las políticas de inclusión financiera en la ciudad de Montería. De allí, la importancia de hacer una exposición de los factores que vienen incidiendo en el cumplimiento de estas políticas en el municipio de Montería. La metodología de esta investigación empírica, hace énfasis, en un trabajo de campo que privilegió las fuentes de tipo primaria, con apoyo estadístico, mediante un análisis de tipo correlacional (regresión lineal simple). Los resultados proporcionan evidencia empírica, de que los sectores poblacionales de menores ingresos en Montería tienen menores posibilidades de acceso al campo financiero, debido a que no poseen garantías suficientes para cumplir con el pago de dichos créditos; en ese sentido, se requiere mayor inclusión financiera hacia los hogares de los sectores populares en dicho municipio. A partir de estos hallazgos, se concluye, que una mayor inclusión financiera para el municipio de Montería será favorable para el desarrollo de más acciones emprendedoras que activen la economía local y con los que se logre obtener mayores niveles de bienestar en la población monteriana.
Responsabilidad social universitaria, ética empresarial y su aplicación en los procesos de formación en las instituciones de educación superior
Authors: De La Torre-Lascano Carlos Mauricio
Published: September 2020

Esta investigación se desarrolla con la finalidad de determinar la problemática social relacionada con la falta de valores éticos y morales a nivel académico. Al ser un estudio cualitativo, recurre a la revisión bibliográfica documental como principal fuente para la obtención de información, sustentando técnicamente que la implementación en los procesos de formación profesional que aborden la ética empresarial como elemento trascendental puede minimizar los actos de corrupción. El estudio tiene tres referentes: responsabilidad social universitaria, ética empresarial y su aplicación en los procesos de formación en las instituciones de educación superior. El análisis determina que en la responsabilidad social existe un recurrente cometimiento de actividades delictivas con la participación de funcionarios públicos y privados, que las universidades desarrollan una formación profesional centrada en habilidades técnicas, con poco contenido ético y moral. De ahí emerge la necesidad de fortalecer el proceso de instauración ético y moral en la formación universitaria, incorporando unidades de análisis relacionadas con la deontología o abordando esta disciplina como eje transversal en todas las asignaturas del currículo universitario. Por tanto, se concluye que existe una directa relación entre responsabilidad social universitaria, ética empresarial y la necesidad de su aplicación en los procesos de formación profesional.
Growing Preferences towards Analog-based Drug Discovery
Authors: Dangi Mehak , Khichi Alka , Jakhar Ritu , Chhillar Anil K.
Published: September 2020

Background:

The major concern of today's time is the developing resistance in most of the
clinically derived pathogenic micro-organisms for available drugs through several mechanisms. Therefore,
there is a dire need to develop novel molecules with drug-like properties that can be effective
against the otherwise resistant micro-organisms.

Methods :

New drugs can be developed using several methods like structure-based drug design, ligandbased
drug design, or by developing analogs of the available drugs to further improve their effects.
However, the smartness is to opt for the techniques that have comparatively less expenditure, lower
failure rates, and faster discovery rates.

Results:

Analog-Based Drug Design (ABDD) is one such technique that researchers worldwide are
opting to develop new drug-like molecules with comparatively lower market values. They start by first
designing the analogs sharing structural and pharmacological similarities to the existing drugs. This
method embarks on scaffold structures of available drugs already approved by the clinical trials, but
are left ineffective because of resistance developed by the pathogens.

Conclusion:

In this review, we have discussed some recent examples of anti-fungal and anti-bacterial
(antimicrobial) drugs that were designed based on the ABDD technique. Also, we have tried to focus
on the in silico tools and techniques that can contribute to the designing and computational screening
of the analogs, so that these can be further considered for in vitro screening to validate their better biological
activities against the pathogens with comparatively reduced rates of failure.
Efficiency of Homology Modeling Assisted Molecular Docking in G-protein Coupled Receptors
Authors: Bhunia Shome S. , Saxena Anil K.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Molecular docking is in regular practice to assess ligand affinity on a target
protein crystal structure. In the absence of protein crystal structure, the homology modeling or comparative
modeling is the best alternative to elucidate the relationship details between a ligand and protein at
the molecular level. The development of accurate homology modeling (HM) and its integration with
molecular docking (MD) is essential for successful, rational drug discovery.

Objective:

The G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are attractive therapeutic targets due to their immense
role in human pharmacology. The GPCRs are membrane-bound proteins with the complex constitution,
and the understanding of their activation and inactivation mechanisms is quite challenging.
Over the past decade, there has been a rapid expansion in the number of solved G-protein-coupled receptor
(GPCR) crystal structures; however, the majority of the GPCR structures remain unsolved. In this
context, HM guided MD has been widely used for structure-based drug design (SBDD) of GPCRs.

Methods:

The focus of this review is on the recent (i) developments on HM supported GPCR drug discovery
in the absence of GPCR crystal structures and (ii) application of HM in understanding the ligand
interactions at the binding site, virtual screening, determining receptor subtype selectivity and receptor
behaviour in comparison with GPCR crystal structures.

Results:

The HM in GPCRs has been extremely challenging due to the scarcity in template structures. In
such a scenario, it is difficult to get accurate HM that can facilitate understanding of the ligand-receptor
interactions. This problem has been alleviated to some extent by developing refined HM based on incorporating
active /inactive ligand information and inducing protein flexibility. In some cases, HM proteins
were found to outscore crystal structures.

Conclusion:

The developments in HM have been highly operative to gain insights about the ligand interaction
at the binding site and receptor functioning at the molecular level. Thus, HM guided molecular
docking may be useful for rational drug discovery for the GPCRs mediated diseases.