bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanocarriers as Administration Systems of Natural Products
Authors: Solís-Cruz Guadalupe Y. , Pérez-López Luis A. , Alvarez-Roman Rocio , Rivas-Galindo Verónica M. , Silva-Mares David A. , Ibarra-Rivera Tannya R.
Published: September 2021

Natural products are an important source of bioactive molecules. However, the development
of biological applications based on these compounds is hindered by intrinsic problems in
their solubility, volatility, degradation, and bioavailability. Nanocarriers as drug administration systems
promise to overcome these limitations by providing controlled and directed delivery. This review
aims to present 1) the most frequently used nanocarriers as natural product administration systems,
based on the progress of controlled and directed release, and 2) the challenges associated
with the use of nanocarriers as therapeutic agents.
Do We Have Good Activity Indices in Systemic Sclerosis?
Authors: Groseanu Laura , Petrescu Sorana , Balanescu Andra , Bojinca Violeta , Opris-Belinski Daniela , Berghea Florian , Mazilu Diana , Saulescu Ioana , Borangiu Andreea , Daia-Iliescu Sanziana , Constantinescu Cosmin , Cobilinschi Claudia , Abobului Mihai , Negru Maria Magdalena , Ionescu Ruxandra
Published: September 2021

Background:

No fully validated index is available for assessing overall disease activity
in systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Objectives:

To estimate the effect of disease activity as measured by different disease activity indices
on the risk of subsequent organ damage.

Methods:

The European Systemic sclerosis study group activity index (EScSG AI), the European
Scleroderma Trials and Research Group Activity Index (r-EUSTAR AI), 12 point activity index
proposed by Minier (12point AI) were calculated for 91 patients; the CRISS (The Composite Response
Index for Systemic Sclerosis) for patients included after 2016. Data were analysed by parametric
and non-parametric tests and logistic regression.

Results:

EscSG AI, r-EUSTAR AI and 12point AI correlated with lung involvement. EScSG AI
and r-EUSTAR AI correlated with diffuse skin involvement. EscSG AI correlated with digital ulcers
and diffuse cutaneous involvement and r-EUSTAR AI with a renal crisis.
Bivariate analysis showed an inverse correlation between the three disease activity scores and
forced vital capacity (FVC) (p<0.001) and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO)
(p<0.001) and positive correlation with pulmonary fibrosis (p<0.001), modified Rodnan skin score
(mRSS) (p<0.001), health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) (p<0.001), systolic pulmonary pressure
(sPAP) (p<0.001), C-reactive protein (CRP) (p<0.001) and capillaroscopy scoring (p<0.001) at
both baseline visit and the 3-year follow-up visit. Logistic regression revealed that baseline EScSG
AI adjusted for gender and age and that baseline 12-point AI both adjusted and unadjusted predicted
worse skin involvement at 3-year follow-up; while adjusted EScSG AI predicted decreasing DLCO.
Also, 12-point AI predicted a decline of FVC and higher HAQ scores at 3-year follow up;
while baseline r-EUSTAR AI was able to predict muscular deterioration, decline of FVC and the increase
of HAQ score during 3 years of following. An active disease according to EScSG AI at first
visit predicted progression of joint involvement while an active disease at baseline showed by r-
EUSTAR AI predicted muscular deterioration, FVC and DLCO worsening, as well as an increase
in HAQ score during the follow-up period. r-EUSTAR AI was the only score to predict the decrease
of FVC in a multiple regression prediction model (OR= 1.306 (1.025, 1.665), p=0.31) while
baseline EScSG AI best predicted worsening of DLCO (OR=1.749 (1.104, 2.772), p=0.017).

Conclusion:

Our study could not establish a gold standard to assess disease activity in SSc; especially
EscSG AI and r-EUSTAR AI could quantify and predict major organ involvement in daily
practice. CRISS can be useful as an outcome measure for patients with short disease duration included
in clinical studies.
Cardiovascular Diseases in Pregnancy - A Brief Overview
Authors: Sahu Ankit Kumar , Harsha Mullusoge Mariappa , Rathoor Sonika
Published: September 2021

:

Even though, there have been many advances in maternal medical care and fertility treatments,
the presence of cardiovascular disease has a significant impact on pregnancy. In pregnant
women, several heart conditions, such as valvular heart disease, chronic hypertension, congenital
heart defects and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies are linked to increased risk of fetal as well as maternal
morbidity and mortality. To date, the management of the co-existing conditions of pregnancy
and heart disease has been challenging. Therefore, in-depth information may be beneficial to
tackle a difficult case scenario. Towards this end, this paper provides an overview of the recent updated
knowledge of pregnancy-related cardiovascular diseases in women.
Computed Tomography (CT) Features of Pelvic Rhabdomyosarcoma
(RMS) in Children
Authors: Tian Lu , Cai Yue , Li Xiaomeng , Cai Jinhua
Published: September 2021

Background: Currently, there are few literature reports on the CT features of pelvic
rhabdomyosarcoma, most of which exist in the form of case reports, and some literature reports
have suggested that CT features of pelvic rhabdomyosarcoma lack specificity. This study was designed
to investigate the CT features of pelvic RMS in children to provide imaging evidence for
clinical diagnosis.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed radiographic and clinical data of all paediatric patients with
pelvic neoplastic lesions pathologically proven to be malignant in our hospitals from January 2012
through March 2021. The data of the included paediatric patients were divided into two groups according
to whether the pathology results indicated RMS. CT features of RMS (n = 37) and non-
RMS (n = 91) were compared by two abdominal radiologists.

Results: A total of 9 CT features were statistically significant for the diagnosis of pelvic RMS in
children (p < 0.05). The sensitivity (range, 0.64-0.74) and specificity (range, 0.86-0.93) of the CT
features showing multinodular fusion, surrounding blood vessels, and heterogeneous progressive
centripetal enhancement were both relatively high. The CT features indicating lower than muscle
density, necrosis, non-calcification and non-haemorrhage exhibited high specificity (range,
0.86-0.97), but the sensitivity (range, 0.32-0.40) was relatively low, while the sensitivity (range,
0.37-0.46) and specificity (range, 0.75-0.83) of other CT features used for diagnosing pelvic RMS,
namely, lobulated and lymphatic metastasis, were both relatively low.

Conclusion: Pelvic rhabdomyosarcoma in children has its own specific CT features.
Moderate Exercise Improves Cognitive Function in Healthy Elderly People: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Carta Mauro Giovanni , Cossu Giulia , Pintus Elisa , Zaccheddu Rosanna , Callia Omar , Conti Giuliana , Pintus Mirra , Aviles Gonzalez Cesar Ivan , Massidda Maria Valeria , Mura Gioia , Sardu Claudia , Contu Paolo , Minerba Luigi , Demontis Roberto , Pau Massimiliano , Finco Gabriele , Cocco Eleonora , Penna Maria Pietronilla , Orr Germano , Kalcev Goce , Cabras Federico , Lorrai Stefano , Loviselli Andrea , Velluzzi Fernanda , Monticone Marco , Cacace Enrico , Musu Mario , Rongioletti Franco , Cauli Alberto , Ruggiero Valeria , Scano Alessandra , Crisafulli Antonio , Cosentino Sofia , Atzori Laura , Massa Elena , Mela Quirico , Fortin Dario , Migliaccio Gianmario , Machado Sergio , Romano Ferdinando , Preti Antonio
Published: September 2021

Background:

Physical activity in the elderly is recommended by international guidelines to protect against cognitive decline and functional impairment.

Objective:

This Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) was set up to verify whether medium-intensity physical activity in elderly people living in the community is effective in improving cognitive performance.

Design:

RCT with parallel and balanced large groups.

Setting:

Academic university hospital and Olympic gyms.

Subjects:

People aged 65 years old and older of both genders living at home holding a medical certificate for suitability in non-competitive physical activity.

Methods:

Participants were randomized to a 12-week, 3 sessions per week moderate physical activity program or to a control condition focused on cultural and recreational activities in groups of the same size and timing as the active intervention group. The active phase integrated a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic exercises, including drills of “life movements”, strength and balance. The primary outcome was: any change in Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination Revised (ACE-R) and its subscales.

Results:

At the end of the trial, 52 people completed the active intervention, and 53 people completed the control condition. People in the active intervention improved on the ACE-R (ANOVA: F(1;102)=4.32, p=0.040), and also showed better performances on the memory (F(1;102)=5.40 p=0.022) and visual-space skills subscales of the ACE-R (F(1;102)=4.09 p=0.046).

Conclusion:

A moderate-intensity exercise administered for a relatively short period of 12 weeks is capable of improving cognitive performance in a sample of elderly people who live independently in their homes.

Clinical Trials Registration No: NCT03858114
The Use of Distance Learning and E-learning in Students with Learning Disabilities: A Review on the Effects and some Hint of Analysis on the Use during COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Petretto Donatella Rita , Carta Stefano Mariano , Cataudella Stefania , Masala Ilaria , Mascia Maria Lidia , Penna Maria Pietronilla , Piras Paola , Pistis Ilenia , Masala Carmelo
Published: September 2021

Even if the use of distance learning and E-learning has a long tradition all over the world and both have been used to keep in contact with students and to provide lessons, support and learning materials, there is an open debate on the balance between advantages and disadvantages in the use of distance learning. This debate is even more central in their use to support students with Learning Disabilities (LDs), an overarching group of neurodevelopmental disorders that affect more than 5% of students. The current COVID-19 outbreak caused school closures and the massive use of E-learning all over the world and it put higher attention on the debate of the effects of E-learning. This paper aims to review papers that investigated the positive and negative effects of the use of Distance Learning and E-learning in students with LDs. We conducted a literature review on the relationship between Distance Learning, E-learning and Learning Disabilities, via Scopus, Eric and Google Scholar electronic database, according to Prisma Guidelines. The findings are summarized using a narrative, but systematic, approach. According to the data resulting from the papers, we also discuss issues to be analyzed in future research and in the use of E-learning during the current pandemic of COVID-19.
Decrease in Cell Viability of Breast Cancer Cells by a Di-Hydroxylated Derivative of
N-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-Propylpentanamide
Authors: Galindo-Alvarez Norma L. , Mendoza-Figueroa Humberto L. , Rosales-Hernández Martha C. , Bakalara Norbert , Correa-Basurto José
Published: September 2021

Background:

A preliminary study of the biotransformation by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP) of N-(2-
hydroxyphenyl)-2-propylpentanamide (HO-AAVPA), an HDAC inhibitor, led to the synthesis of two hydroxylated
derivatives: N-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propylpentanamide (5a) and N-(2,5-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propylpentanamide
(5b).

Objective:

The study aims to evaluate the anti-proliferative activity of these di-hydroxylated derivatives in breast cancer
cell lines.

Methods:

MTT assays were conducted in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Additionally, in silico studies were
carried out to evaluate the affinity of these derivatives with the HDAC1 enzyme.

Results:

Results showed that only 5b possess an enhanced anti-proliferative effect in breast cancer cell lines MCF-7
and MDA-MB-231. Docking studies revealed that the presence of hydroxyl groups, as well as the position of the additional
hydroxyl groups, could have an impact on HDAC1 affinity and could explain the lack of activity of compound
5a.

Conclusion:

A priori, these results hypothesize that anti-proliferative activity of 5b could be related to HDAC1 inhibition
and thus anti-proliferative activity in breast cancer cells.
Liver Injury in COVID-19: A Direct Hit or Collateral Damage?
Authors: Vairappan Balasubramaniyan , Wright Gavin , Corrigal Douglas , TS Ravikumar
Published: September 2021

:

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus that has been identified, in December 2019, in Wuhan, China, and since it has become a worldwide pandemic, it has imposed far-reaching impacts on global human health and socio-economic activity. Worldwide, over 4 million Covid-19 related deaths were reported until September 2021. Recently published case studies have reported that Covid-19 patients develop different degrees of liver dysfunction. Inevitably, in hospitalized Covid-19 patients who develop acute liver derangement, there are a plethora of potential pathogenic causes such as direct-viral, immune-driven, and drug-induced and/or ischaemic liver injury. Patients with advanced chronic liver diseases (e.g., cirrhosis) and/or autoimmune liver disease have a poor immune function and associated poorer outcomes compared to other critically ill cohorts. However, largely any immediate liver derangement tends to be relatively mild, and as such, any de novo liver injury may not be a significant feature of Covid-19. There is an immediate necessity, therefore, to better understand the liver-specific pathophysiology of COVID-19. This review focuses on the up-to-date information regarding Covid-19 and associated indices for liver dysfunction, possible mechanisms, and potential drug targeted therapies in Covid-19 patients with and without liver dysfunction. PubMed database was used to perform an extensive literature search using the keywords liver and SARS-CoV-2, liver and Covid-19, Covid 19 and treatment, etc.
Interaction of Host Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) withMycobacterium Tuberculosisand Ayurvedic Management of Tuberculosis: A Systemic Approach
Authors: Ponnusamy Nirmaladevi , Arumugam Mohanapriya
Published: September 2021

:

Tuberculosis (TB), an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), infects the lungs' alveolar surfaces through aerosol droplets. At this stage, the disease progression may have many consequences, determined primarily by the reactions of the human immune system. However, one approach will be to more actively integrate the immune system, especially the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) systems of the host, which notices pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) of Mtb. Several types of PRRs are involved in the detection of Mtb, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs), C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), Dendritic cell (DC) -specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing non-integrin (DC-SIGN), Mannose receptor (MR), and NOD-like receptors (NLRs) related to inflammasome activation. In this study, we focus on reviewing the Mtb pathophysiology and interaction of host PPRs with Mtb as well as adverse drug effects of anti-tuberculosis drugs (ATDs) and systematic TB treatment via Ayurvedic medicine.
The application of Sheng-Mai Injection in diabetes mellitus and related complications: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Maoyi , Hu Zhipeng , Yue Rensong
Published: September 2021

Background:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by progressive β cell dysfunction. Sheng-Mai Injection (SMI), a Traditional Chinese medicine preparation, is widely used for DM and related complications.

Objective:

The study aims to summarize the applications of SMI in DM and related complications by meta-analysis.

Methods:

Eight databases were searched, and meta-analyses were performed.

Results :

Fifteen studies, including 1273 participants, were included. All studies and participants are from China. Pooled effects showed that SMI might reduce glycated hemoglobin (MD -0.46%; 95% CI -0.89 to -0.03; P < 0.01), fasting blood glucose (MD -0.83 mmol/L; 95% CI -1.30 to -0.36; P < 0.01), two-hour Postprandial glucose (MD -1.27 mmol/L; 95% CI -1.96 to -0.58; P < 0.01), 24-hour urinary protein (MD -0.28 mg; 95% CI -0.51 to -0.06; P = 0.01), blood urea nitrogen (MD -1.31 mg; 95% CI -2.08 to -0.54; P < 0.05), Scr (MD -2.60; 95% CI -3.43 to -1.77; P < 0.05), ulnar nerve motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) (MD 1.45; 95% CI 0.03 to 2.87; P < 0.05) and tibial nerve Sensory nerve conduction velocity (SNCV) (MD 1.84; 95% CI 0.1 to 3.58; P < 0.05). There was no evidence of effect on common peroneal nervous MNCV and SNCV, tibial nerve MNCV, median nerve MNCV and SNCV. Adverse effects included less frequent gastrointestinal reactions, elevated transaminase, leucopenia, fever, and rash.

Conclusion:

SMI may be effective in DM and diabetic nephropathy. For diabetic peripheral neuropathy, the effectiveness cannot yet be proven considering the inconsistency of the evidence.
Identification of Immunogenic Candidate for New Serological Tests for Brucella melitensis by a Proteomic Approach
Authors: Paci Valentina , Visciano Pierina , Krasteva Ivanka , Di Febo Tiziana , Perletta Fabrizia , Di Pancrazio Chiara , D’Onofrio Federica , Schirone Maria , Tittarelli Manuela , Luciani Mirella
Published: September 2021

Background:

The diagnosis of brucellosis by serological tests is based on antigen suspensions derived from smooth lipopolysaccharide extracts, which can give false positive results linked to cross-reactivity with other Gram-negative microorganisms, especially Yersinia enterocolitica O:9 and Escherichia coli O157:H7.

Objective:

The objective of the present study was the characterization by proteomic analysis of specific immunogenic proteins not associated with smooth lipopolysaccharide to improve the diagnostic tests used in the ovine brucellosis eradication programs.

Methods:

The serum from a sheep positive to Brucella melitensis was treated to eliminate all antibodies against such lipopolysaccharide and highlight the reaction towards the immunoreactive proteins in Western Blotting.

Results:

The immunoreactive bands were identified by nLC-MS/MS and through bioinformatic tools, it was possible to select 12 potential candidates as protein antigens specific for Brucella melitensis.

Conclusion:

The detection of new antigens not subjected to cross-reactivity with other Gram-negative microorganisms can offer an additional tool for the serological diagnosis of such disease.
Alternative Management of Cushing's Syndrome During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Covantev Serghei , Volkov Stanislav I. , Samsonova Kristina I.
Published: September 2021

:

Cushing's syndrome results from prolonged exposure to glucocorticoids. Surgery is often
the first-line treatment for this condition, regardless of etiology. However, the COVID-19 pandemic
caused a decrease in surgical procedures due to the risk of infection transmission. There are
still emergency cases of Cushing’s syndrome that are admitted to the hospital and require urgent
management. The current treatment should be focused on medical management and endovascular
embolization in selective cases. Embolization can be performed in facilities where there aretrained
personnel with experience in adrenal embolization. Surgery, which traditionally is a first-line therapy,
can increase the risk of infection, therefore, it should be avoided. The current review provides a
brief description of the possible options for the management of adrenal Cushing’s syndrome during
the COVID-19 pandemic.
Measuring Adherence Within a Self-Guided Online Intervention for Depression and Anxiety: Secondary Analyses of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hanano Maria , Rith-Najarian Leslie , Boyd Meredith , Chavira Denise
Published: September 2021

Background

Self-guided online interventions offer users the ability to participate in an intervention at their own pace and address some traditional service barriers (eg, attending in-person appointments, cost). However, these interventions suffer from high dropout rates, and current literature provides little guidance for defining and measuring online intervention adherence as it relates to clinical outcomes.

Objective

This study aims to develop and test multiple measures of adherence to a specific self-guided online intervention, as guided by best practices from the literature.

Methods

We conducted secondary analyses on data from a randomized controlled trial of an 8-week online cognitive behavioral program that targets depression and anxiety in college students. We defined multiple behavioral and attitudinal adherence measures at varying levels of effort (ie, low, moderate, and high). Linear regressions were run with adherence terms predicting improvement in the primary outcome measure, the 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21).

Results

Of the 947 participants, 747 initiated any activity and 449 provided posttest data. Results from the intent-to-treat sample indicated that high level of effort for behavioral adherence significantly predicted symptom change (F4,746=17.18, P<.001; and β=–.26, P=.04). Moderate level of effort for attitudinal adherence also significantly predicted symptom change (F4,746=17.25, P<.001; and β=–.36, P=.03). Results differed in the initiators-only sample, such that none of the adherence measures significantly predicted symptom change (P=.09-.27).

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the differential results of dose-response models testing adherence measures in predicting clinical outcomes. We summarize recommendations that might provide helpful guidance to future researchers and intervention developers aiming to investigate online intervention adherence.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04361045; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04361045
Web-Based Behavioral Intervention Utilizing Narrative Persuasion for HIV Prevention Among Chinese Men Who Have Sex With Men (HeHe Talks Project): Intervention Development (Preprint)
Authors: Xin Meiqi , Coulson Neil S , Jiang Crystal Li , Sillence Elizabeth , Chidgey Andrew , Kwan Norman Nok Man , Mak Winnie W S , Goggins William , Lau Joseph Tak Fai , Mo Phoenix Kit Han
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

In the era of potent antiretroviral therapy, a high level of condomless anal intercourse continues to drive increases in HIV incidence in recent years among men who have sex with men. Effective behavior change strategies for promoting HIV-preventive behaviors are warranted. Narrative persuasion is a novel health communication approach that has demonstrated its persuasive advantages in overcoming resistance to counterattitudinal messages. The efficacy of narrative persuasion in promoting health behavior changes has been well documented, but critical research gaps exist for its application to HIV prevention.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to (1) capitalize on narrative persuasion to design a web-based multisession intervention for reducing condomless anal intercourse among men who have sex with men in Hong Kong (the HeHe Talks Project) by following a systematic development process; and (2) describe the main components of the narrative intervention that potentially determine its persuasiveness.

METHODS

Persuasive themes and subtopics related to reducing condomless anal intercourse were initially proposed based on epidemiological evidence. The biographic narrative interview method was used to elicit firsthand experiential stories from a maximum variation sample of local men who have sex with men with diverse backgrounds and experiences related to HIV prevention; different types of role models were established accordingly. Framework analysis was used to aggregate the original quotations from narrators into collective narratives under 6 intervention themes. A dedicated website was finally developed for intervention delivery.

RESULTS

A series of video-based intervention messages in biographic narrative format (firsthand experiential stories shared by men who have sex with men) combined with topic-equivalent argumentative messages were produced and programmed into 6 intervention sessions. The 6-week intervention program can be automatically delivered and monitored online.

CONCLUSIONS

We systematically created a web-based HIV prevention intervention derived from peer-generated stories. Strategies used to enhance the efficacy of the narrative intervention have been discussed within basic communication components. This paper describes the methods and experiences of the rigorous development of a narrative communication intervention for HIV prevention, which enables replication of the intervention in the future.
A Smartphone-Based App to Improve Adjuvant Treatment Adherence to Multidisciplinary Decisions in Patients With Early-Stage Breast Cancer: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Yu Jing , Wu Jiayi , Huang Ou , Chen Xiaosong , Shen Kunwei
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Multidisciplinary treatment (MDT) and adjuvant therapy are associated with improved survival rates in breast cancer. However, nonadherence to MDT decisions is common in patients. We developed a smartphone-based app that can facilitate the full-course management of patients after surgery.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the influence factors of treatment nonadherence and to determine whether this smartphone-based app can improve the compliance rate with MDTs.

METHODS

Patients who had received a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer and had undergone MDT between March 2013 and May 2019 were included. Patients were classified into 3 groups: Pre-App cohort (November 2017, before the launch of the app); App nonused, cohort (after November 2017 but not using the app); and App used cohort (after November 2017 and using the app). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the factors related to MDT adherence. Compliance with specific adjuvant treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy, and targeted therapy, was also evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 4475 patients were included, with Pre-App, App nonused, and App used cohorts comprising 2966 (66.28%), 861 (19.24%), and 648 (14.48%) patients, respectively. Overall, 15.53% (695/4475) patients did not receive MDT recommendations; the noncompliance rate ranged from 27.4% (75/273) in 2013 to 8.8% (44/500) in 2019. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that app use was independently associated with adherence to adjuvant treatment. Compared with the patients in the Pre-App cohort, patients in the App used cohort were less likely to deviate from MDT recommendations (odds ratio [OR] 0.61, 95% CI 0.43-0.87; P=.007); no significant difference was found in the App nonused cohort (P=.77). Moreover, app use decreased the noncompliance rate for adjuvant chemotherapy (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.27-0.65; P<.001) and radiotherapy (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.25-0.96; P=.04), but not for anti-HER2 therapy (P=.76) or endocrine therapy (P=.39).

CONCLUSIONS

This smartphone-based app can increase MDT adherence in patients undergoing adjuvant therapy; this was more obvious for adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Machine Learning for Cardiovascular Outcomes From Wearable Data: Systematic Review From a Technology Readiness Level Point of View (Preprint)
Authors: Naseri Jahfari Arman , Tax David , Reinders Marcel , van der Bilt Ivo
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Wearable technology has the potential to improve cardiovascular health monitoring by using machine learning. Such technology enables remote health monitoring and allows for the diagnosis and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. In addition to the detection of cardiovascular disease, it can exclude this diagnosis in symptomatic patients, thereby preventing unnecessary hospital visits. In addition, early warning systems can aid cardiologists in timely treatment and prevention.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to systematically assess the literature on detecting and predicting outcomes of patients with cardiovascular diseases by using machine learning with data obtained from wearables to gain insights into the current state, challenges, and limitations of this technology.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus, and IEEE Xplore on September 26, 2020, with no restrictions on the publication date and by using keywords such as “wearables,” “machine learning,” and “cardiovascular disease.” Methodologies were categorized and analyzed according to machine learning–based technology readiness levels (TRLs), which score studies on their potential to be deployed in an operational setting from 1 to 9 (most ready).

RESULTS

After the removal of duplicates, application of exclusion criteria, and full-text screening, 55 eligible studies were included in the analysis, covering a variety of cardiovascular diseases. We assessed the quality of the included studies and found that none of the studies were integrated into a health care system (TRL<6), prospective phase 2 and phase 3 trials were absent (TRL<7 and 8), and group cross-validation was rarely used. These issues limited these studies’ ability to demonstrate the effectiveness of their methodologies. Furthermore, there seemed to be no agreement on the sample size needed to train these studies’ models, the size of the observation window used to make predictions, how long participants should be observed, and the type of machine learning model that is suitable for predicting cardiovascular outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Although current studies show the potential of wearables to monitor cardiovascular events, their deployment as a diagnostic or prognostic cardiovascular clinical tool is hampered by the lack of a realistic data set and proper systematic and prospective evaluation.
Process and Information Needs When Searching for and Selecting Apps for Smoking Cessation: Qualitative Study Using Contextual Inquiry (Preprint)
Authors: Hendriks Ylva , Peek Sebastiaan , Kaptein Maurits , Bongers Inge
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Hundreds of apps are available to support people in their quest to quit smoking. It has been hypothesized that selecting an app from a sizable volume without any aid can be overwhelming and difficult. However, little is known about how people choose apps for smoking cessation and what exactly people want to know about an app before choosing to install it. Understanding the decision-making process may ultimately be helpful in creating tools to help people meaningfully select apps.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to obtain insights into the process of searching and selecting mobile apps for smoking cessation and map the range of actions and the accompanying reasons during the search, focusing on the information needs and experiences of those who aim to find an app.

METHODS

Contextual inquiries were conducted with 10 Dutch adults wanting to quit smoking by using an app. During the inquiries, we observed people as they chose an app. In addition, 2 weeks later, there was a short semistructured follow-up interview over the phone. Through convenience and purposive sampling, we included participants differing in gender, age, and educational level. We used thematic analysis to analyze the transcribed interviews and leveraged a combination of video and audio recordings to understand what is involved in searching and selecting apps for smoking cessation.

RESULTS

The process of finding smoking cessation apps is comprehensive: participants explored, evaluated, and searched for information; imagined using functions; compared apps; assessed the trustworthiness of apps and information; and made several decisions while navigating the internet and app stores. During the search, the participants gained knowledge of apps and developed clearer ideas about their wishes and requirements. Confidence and trust in these apps to help quitting remained quite low or even decreased. Although the process was predominantly a positive experience, the whole process took time and energy and caused negative emotions such as frustration and disappointment for some participants. In addition, without the participants realizing it, errors in information processing occurred, which affected the choices they made. All participants chose an app with the explicit intention of using it. After 2 weeks, of the 10 participants, 6 had used the app, of whom only 1 extensively.

CONCLUSIONS

Finding an app in the current app stores that contains functions and features expected to help in quitting smoking takes considerable time and energy, can be a negative experience, and is prone to errors in information processing that affect decision-making. Therefore, we advise the further development of decision aids, such as advanced filters, recommender systems and curated health app portals, and make a number of concrete recommendations for the design of such systems.
Digital SARS-CoV-2 Detection Among Hospital Employees: Participatory Surveillance Study (Preprint)
Authors: Leal-Neto Onicio , Egger Thomas , Schlegel Matthias , Flury Domenica , Sumer Johannes , Albrich Werner , Babouee Flury Baharak , Kuster Stefan , Vernazza Pietro , Kahlert Christian , Kohler Philipp
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

The implementation of novel techniques as a complement to traditional disease surveillance systems represents an additional opportunity for rapid analysis.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this work is to describe a web-based participatory surveillance strategy among health care workers (HCWs) in two Swiss hospitals during the first wave of COVID-19.

METHODS

A prospective cohort of HCWs was recruited in March 2020 at the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen and the Eastern Switzerland Children’s Hospital. For data analysis, we used a combination of the following techniques: locally estimated scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) regression, Spearman correlation, anomaly detection, and random forest.

RESULTS

From March 23 to August 23, 2020, a total of 127,684 SMS text messages were sent, generating 90,414 valid reports among 1004 participants, achieving a weekly average of 4.5 (SD 1.9) reports per user. The symptom showing the strongest correlation with a positive polymerase chain reaction test result was loss of taste. Symptoms like red eyes or a runny nose were negatively associated with a positive test. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve showed favorable performance of the classification tree, with an accuracy of 88% for the training data and 89% for the test data. Nevertheless, while the prediction matrix showed good specificity (80.0%), sensitivity was low (10.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Loss of taste was the symptom that was most aligned with COVID-19 activity at the population level. At the individual level—using machine learning–based random forest classification—reporting loss of taste and limb/muscle pain as well as the absence of runny nose and red eyes were the best predictors of COVID-19.
Pork consumption and its relationship to human nutrition and health: a scoping review
Authors: Penkert Laura Paige , Li Ruogu , Huang Jing , Gurcan Anil , Chung Mei Chun , Wallace Taylor C.
Published: September 2021

Pork is a frequently consumed red meat that provides substantial amounts of energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients to the diet. Its role in human nutrition and health is controversial and a plethora of data exist in the peer-reviewed scientific literature. Therefore, we conducted a scoping review of clinical and population-based studies to assess the effects of pork consumption on human nutrition and health. Results are reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews. Data were extracted from 86 studies, including 16 randomized controlled trials, 1 uncontrolled trial, 7 cohort studies, 4 nonrandomized controlled trials, 4 case-cohort and nested case-control studies, 33 case-control studies, and 21 cross-sectional studies. Intervention studies were conducted in healthy individuals and were short to moderate in duration. The effect of pork intake on patients’ nutrient status was the most commonly assessed outcome. The majority of observational studies assessed the effect of pork on cancer incidence, but no studies assessed the effects of pork on inflammation or oxidative stress. No interventional studies explored diabetes mellitus risk, and only one study assessed cancer risk associated with pork consumption. Several micronutrients in pork, including zinc, iron, selenium, choline, thiamin, and vitamins B6 and vitamin B12, are thought to influence cognitive function and may prove to be a unique area of research. To date, there is a dearth of high-quality randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of pork intake on disease risk factors and outcomes. This review helps highlight the many research gaps that future studies should be designed to address.
Библио- и патентометрический анализ развития нанофотоники: 2000–2020 годы
Authors: Терехов А.И.
Published: September 2021

В статье анализируется развитие исследований, структура и динамика патентования научных результатов в области нанофотоники в период 2000–2020 годов. В центре внимания глобальный публикационный выход и вклад в него отдельных стран и их групп, тематическая структура исследований, показатели международной научной кооперации. Рассмотрен внутрироссийский исследовательский ландшафт, отмечено повышение роли географической периферии и университетов в его формировании. На примере базовых направлений нанофотоники показан сдвиг интереса от фотонных кристаллов к метаматериалам (как в исследованиях, так и в патентовании). В качестве источников информации использованы: библиографическая база данных Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) и база данных Ведомства по патентам и товарным знакам США (USPTO).
Исследование синхронизации мод лазера с диодной накачкой для генератора несущей в фотонных схемах
Authors: Якушенков П.О. , Чешев Е.А. , Тупицын И.М.
Published: September 2021

В радиофотонике лазеры являются генераторами, аналогично электронным в радиоэлектронике. Для генерации несущей в фотонных информационных системах используются лазеры с синхронизацией мод. Статья посвящена результатам исследования диодной накачки для лазера с синхронизацией мод и их сравнению с результатами волоконной накачки.
Developing human movement system booklet as a biology teaching material suplement for XI grade students
Authors: Syamsurizal S. , Syarif Eka Aghnia , Rahmawati Rahmawati , Farma Siska Alicia
Published: September 2021

Learning is a process of interaction between students and educators as considerable as learning resources in learning environment. The use of media in learning plays an important role in providing clearer explanation for difficult materials or concepts for students. This research aimed at developing booklet as a biology teaching suplement, especially in human movement system material for XI grade. This R&D research used the Plomp model which consisted of preliminary research, prototype development phase, and assessment phase. The data were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The booklet developed was validated by 3 validators. The human movement system booklet for XI grade was categorized as very valid (94.11), stated as very practical by students (94.59) and teachers (92.19). It is suggested for teacher to use the human movement system booklet developed for XI graders.
Software preference for online learning of science and biology teachers under COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Khaleyla Firas , Wisanti Wisanti , Ambarwati Reni , Rahayu Dwi Anggorowati , Putri Eva Kristinawati
Published: September 2021

As measure against the rapid spreading of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which now has reached global level, Indonesian government established Large-scale Social Distancing (LsSD). As consequence, learning method used in junior and senior high school is substituted from face-to-face learning in class to online distance learning, including for science and biology. This study was conducted to know software preference used by science and biology junior and senior high school teachers for online learning during LsSD measure. A total of 189 science and biology junior and senior high school teachers from various area had given their response via questionnaire. Data was analyzed using quantitative descriptive method. About 57% respondents had never manage online learning before COVID-19 pandemic while the remaining 43% had experience in managing one before, however almost all managed online learning. Non-paid software used the most (81%) among respondents to manage online science/biology learning. Software types used were social networking (64%) especially WhatsApp, learning management system (LMS) (51%) especially Google Classroom, teleconference applications (12%), and assessment software outside of LMSs (15%). Software chosen were mostly non-paid, easily accessed by all people, already familiar among Indonesian, and its interface were easily mastered.
Developing biology enrichment book of fish diversity of aquatic ecosystems in Kampar District
Authors: Syah Firman , Yustina Y.
Published: September 2021

Fish diversity in Kampar District is one of natural resources which is potentially developed as a contextual learning resource for student. This Research and Development (R&D) study aimed at developing biology enrichment book of fish diversity in Kampar District as learning resource for X graders. The R&D model employed was ADDIE which was limited to the third phase (i.e development). The validity and practicality tests on the product developed were conducted by material and media experts as well as 20 biology teachers. The instrument used was questionnaire with five Likert scale. It comprised of 18 items in which the 10 items related to content eligibility and material presentation, meanwhile, the other eight items related to language and graphics. The results showed that the product developed was categorized as very valid with several minor revisions. The overall practicality test resulted the score value with high practicality category (83.8). In addition, the results of development stage depicted that the biology enrichment book of fish diversity in Kampar District was categorized as strongly valid. Thus, it can be continued to the next stage in term of implementation and evaluation in order to get the usable product for student as a contextual learning resource.
The implementation of mini-research project to train undergraduate students’ scientific writing and communication skills
Authors: Haryono Agus , Adam Chaidir
Published: September 2021

Scientific writing and communication skills of undergraduate students in the Biology Education Program of University of Palangka Raya need to be improved. The purpose of this research was to implement mini-research in animal ecology field practice to train undergraduate students’ scientific writing and communication skills. This descriptive quantitative research used action-research method with two cycles in which each cycle consisted of four stages i.e (1) plan; (2) take action; (3) collect and analyze evidences, and (4) reflect. The data gained were analyzed descriptively and quantitatively. The results showed that the gain score of students’ scientific writing skills based on mini-research assessment was 0.6 (moderate category). Moreover, students' communication skills showed an improvement from cycle 1 to cycle 2 which was assessed during the presentation session. All the findings in this study indicate that the implementation of the mini-research project in the field practice of the animal ecology course helps students to develop scientific writing and communication skills.
The difficulty index of biology topics in Indonesian Senior High School: Biology undergraduate students’ perspectives
Authors: Fauzi Ahmad , Rosyida Alfin Miftachulia , Rohma Miftachur , Khoiroh Diana
Published: September 2021

Biology is a subject that contains of many difficult concepts to study. This study aimed to identify Biology topics taught in Senior High School (SHS) which were considered as difficult materials by undergraduate students. The data were gathered by means of a web-based survey from 198 Biology students of 25 universities and 51 Biology education students of nine universities in Indonesia. The biology students graduated from SHSs in 97 regions/municipality, while the biology education students were graduated from 34 regions/municipality. The data were analyzed using two formulas: 1) Biology Difficulty Index (BDI) to determine the difficulty index of Biology subject, and 2) Topic Difficulty Index (TDI) to examine the difficulty index of each Biology topics. The results showed that the highest value of TDI was Genetics. There was no significant difference of BDI between Biology students and Biology education students. The lower of the students’ BDI, the higher the level of their interest in Biology subject. The primary cause of difficulty encountered by the students in studying various topics of Biology was the complicated characteristics of the materials. The findings of this study can be followed up by designing diagnostic tests and instructional designs in biology topics which consider students’ difficulty.
Science communication training as information seeking and processing: a theoretical approach to training early-career scientists
Authors: Akin Heather , Rodgers Shelly , Schultz Jack
Published: September 2021

This study examines early-career scientists' cognition, affect, and behaviors before, during, and after a series of science communication training workshops drawing from the Risk Information Seeking and Processing (RISP) and Theory of Planned Behavior theoretical models. We find correlations between engagement (throughout the training), self-reported knowledge and intention to apply their science communication skills. We discuss implications of these findings for science communication training, in particular that science communication behaviors and investment in skill development appear to be more dependent on attitudes and motivations cultivated during the training, rather than their attitudes and motivations coming in.
Quantum algorithms and approximating polynomials for composed functions with shared inputs
Authors: Bun Mark , Kothari Robin , Thaler Justin
Published: September 2021

We give new quantum algorithms for evaluating composed functions whose inputs may be shared between bottom-level gates. Letfbe anm-bit Boolean function and consider ann-bit functionFobtained by applyingfto conjunctions of possibly overlapping subsets ofnvariables. Iffhas quantum query complexityQ(f), we give an algorithm for evaluatingFusingO~(Q(f)⋅n)quantum queries. This improves on the bound ofO(Q(f)⋅n)that follows by treating each conjunction independently, and our bound is tight for worst-case choices off. Using completely different techniques, we prove a similar tight composition theorem for the approximate degree off.By recursively applying our composition theorems, we obtain a nearly optimalO~(n1−2−d)upper bound on the quantum query complexity and approximate degree of linear-size depth-dAC0circuits. As a consequence, such circuits can be PAC learned in subexponential time, even in the challenging agnostic setting. Prior to our work, a subexponential-time algorithm was not known even for linear-size depth-3 AC0circuits.As an additional consequence, we show that AC0∘⊕circuits of depthd+1require sizeΩ~(n1/(1−2−d))≥ω(n1+2−d)to compute the Inner Product function even on average. The previous best size lower bound wasΩ(n1+4−(d+1))and only held in the worst case (Cheraghchi et al., JCSS 2018).