bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomes: Critical Mediators of Tumour Microenvironment Reprogramming
Authors: Malla Rama Rao , Shailender Gugalavath , Kamal Mohammad Amjad
Published: December 2020

Tumour microenvironment (TME) is a resident of a variety of cells, which are
devoted to the heterogeneous population of the tumour. TME establishes a communication
network for crosstalk and signalling between tumour cells, stroma, and other interstitial
cells. The cross-communication drives the reprogramming of TME cells, which promote
cancer progression and metastasis via diverse signalling pathways. Recently, TMEderived
exosomes are recognized as critical communicators of TME cell reprogramming.
This review addresses the role of TME-derived exosomes in the modulation of stroma, including
reprogramming the stromal cells, ECM and tumour cell metabolism, as well as
neoplastic transformation. Subsequently, we described the role of exosomes in pre-metastatic
niche development, maintenance of stemness and tumour vasculature, as well as
development of drug resistance. We also explored tumour-derived exosomes in precision,
including diagnosis, drug delivery, and vaccine development. We discussed the currently
established bioengineered exosomes as carriers for chemotherapeutic drugs, RNAi
molecules, and natural compounds. Finally, we presented tetraspanin and DNA-based
precision methods for the quantification of tumour-derived exosomes. Overall, TMEderived
exosome-mediated reprogramming of TME and precision strategies could illuminate
the potential mechanisms for targeted therapeutic intervention.
Metabolism and Pharmacological Mechanisms of Active Ingredients in Erigeron breviscapus
Authors: Fan Hua , Lin Peng , Kang Qiang , Zhao Zhi-Long , Wang Ji , Cheng Jia-Yi
Published: December 2020

Background:

Erigeron breviscapus (Vant.) Hand-Mazz. is a plant species in the Compositae family. More than ten types of compounds-such as flavonoids, caffeinate esters, and volatile oils-have been identified in Erigeron breviscapus; however, it remains unknown as to which compounds are associated with clinical efficacy. In recent years, flavonoids and phenolic acids have been considered as the main effective components of Erigeron breviscapus. The metabolism and mechanisms of these compounds in vivo have been extensively studied to improve our understanding of the drug.

Methods:

In the present review, we summarize the relationships among these compounds, their metabolites, and their pharmacodynamics. Many methods have been implemented to improve the separation and bioavailability of these compounds from Erigeron breviscapus.

Results:

In China, Erigeron breviscapus has been used for many years. In recent years, through the study of its metabolism and the mechanisms of its effective components, the effects of Erigeron breviscapus in the treatment of various diseases have been extensively studied. Findings have indicated that Erigeron breviscapus improves cardiovascular and cerebrovascular function and that one of its ingredients, scutellarin, has potential value in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, cancer, diabetic vascular complications, and other conditions. In addition, phenolic acid compounds and their metabolites also play an important role in anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and improving blood lipids.

Conclusion:

Erigeron breviscapus plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular/ cerebrovascular diseases, neuroprotection, and cancer through many different mechanisms of action. Further investigation of its efficacious components and metabolites may provide more possibilities for the clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine and the development of novel drugs.
Anticancer Activity and In Silico ADMET Properties of 2,4,5-Trisubstitutedthiazole Derivatives
Authors: Al-Jaidi Bilal A. , Telfah Soha T. , Bardaweel Sanaa K. , Deb Pran K. , Borah Pobitra , Venugopala Katharigatta N. , Bataineh Yazan A. , Al Khames Aga Qutaiba A.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Recently, a series of 15 compounds with 2,4,5-trisubstitutedthiazole scaffold having 2-
amino/amido/ureido functional groups attached with 5-aryl and 4-carboxylic acid/ester groups (1-15) were reported
from our research group as novel potential inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase III (CA III) enzyme. Several
research studies revealed the potential role of CA inhibitors as anticancer agents, giving us the impetus to further
explore these compounds for their potential as anticancer agents.

Objectives:

The objective of this study is to investigate the potential of 2,4,5-trisubstitutedthiazole derivatives
(1-15) for their possible cytotoxic activity (in vitro), and to calculate (in silico) the absorption, distribution,
metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) properties to evaluate the drug-likeness of these compounds.

Methods:

Cytotoxic activity (in vitro) was carried out on two breast cancer cell lines (MCF7 and MDA231),
and the lymphoblastoid human erythroleukemia cell line (K562) using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-
diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Doxorubicin was used as a positive control. ADMET properties
were calculated (in silico) using the QikProp module of Schrodinger.

Results:

Compounds 6 and 9 with a phenylureido group at 2-position, and a methyl-carboxylate moiety at 4-position
having para-tolyl and benzyl moiety, respectively at the 5-position of the thiazole ring showed significant
cytotoxicity against all the three cell lines. In particular, compound 6 with para-tolyl group at 5-position
exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect on the viability of MCF7, MDA231 and K562 cells, with IC50 values
of 22, 26 and 11 μM, respectively. Notably, all the highly active compounds possess a phenyluriedo group at 2--
position with a methyl ester group at 4-position, indicating the probable role of these substituents in the target
interaction and inducing cytotoxicity. Interestingly, compounds 1-4 and 10-13 with a free amino group at 2-position
did not show any cytotoxic effect on the K562 cell line, while exhibiting mild to moderate cytotoxicity
against the MCF7 and MDA231 cell lines. However, none of the tested compounds showed any activity against
normal human dermal fibroblast cells indicating the safety/tolerability of the examined concentrations. Furthermore,
these compounds also exhibited satisfactory ADMET properties (in silico), without violating Lipinski’s
rule of five.

Conclusion:

The most active compounds 6 and 9 predicted to have good oral absorption and low human serum
protein binding, exhibiting no reactive functional group and probable CNS activity compared with 95% of the
known oral drugs as predicted (in silico) by QikProp. Thus, compounds 6 and 9 can be considered as lead
molecules for further modification and discovery of novel anticancer agents with nanomolar potency.
A Short Review on Important Drugs Under Clinical Trial Against COVID-19
Authors: Misra Namita
Published: December 2020

Coronavirus spreads from one to another person, either by touching the hands or by
touching the surface contaminated with this virus, and then touching the nose or mouth. COVID-19
infected human symptoms are like pneumonia symptoms, dry cough and high fever. Upper respiratory
tract infections symptoms and sore throat are rare. It was first notified in China dated 12th December
2019 as a respiratory illness. In addition to travel restrictions and quarantine measures, everyone
should follow the World Health Organization's advice guidelines on the management of humans
infected with known or suspected infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus at the personal level.
The development of vaccine or medicines for the same is in progress and this short review will
summarize the most potential candidates such as Remdesivir, Lopinavir and Ritonavir, Chloroquine,
Hydroxychloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine with Azithromycin, Favipiravir, Umifenovir, and Ribavirin
for its medicinal treatment.
Mechanochemical Synthesis and Reactivity of 1,2,3-Triazole Carbohydrate Derivatives as Glycogen Phosphorylase Inhibitors
Authors: Ben Hamadi Naoufel
Published: December 2020

Aims:

We have developed this work to recommend an original route for the preparation of triazole derivatives.

Background:

Carbohydrates containing 1,2,3-triazole derivatives have various biological activities. Due to their
advantageous and biological property, they are eye-catching synthetic targets in the arsenal of organic chemistry.
Thus, finding green and efficient methods, as well as using the ball milling procedure for the synthesis of these
heterocycles, is of interest to organic chemistry researchers.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to synthesize carbohydrate-derived triazoles under high-speed vibration
milling conditions and investigate their properties.

Materials and Method:

A mixture of glycoside azide derivatives (1 mmol) and prop-2-yn-1-ol (1.5 mmol) in
the presence of copper (I) was vigorously shaken under vibration milling conditions at 650 rpm with three balls
for 15 min. The deprotection of the resulting triazole derivatives was affected by treatment with 4M hydrochloric
acid in methanol under reflux.

Results and Discussion:

A short and convenient route to synthesize carbohydrate-derived triazoles, based on a
ball-mill via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions to prop-2-yn-1-ol, was developed. Cleavage of the isopropylidene
protecting group provided water-soluble triazoles, evaluated as glycogen phosphorylase inhibitors. 1-[6-
(4-Hydroxymethyl-[1,2,3]triazol-1-yl)-2,2-dimethyl-tetrahydro-furo[3,4-d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl]-ethane-1,2-diol was
the best inhibitor of rabbit muscle glycogen phosphorylase b (IC50 = 60 μM).

Conclusion:

In summary, we developed new, short and convenient routes to glucose-derived 1,2,3-triazole based
on 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions flowed by ball milling. The use of isopropylidene protective groups gave
access to the analogous deprotected water-soluble motifs, analogous to known inhibitors of glycogen phosphorylase.
Detection of Diuretic Doping by Capillary Electrophoresis and Electrochemical Technology: A Mini-Review
Authors: Nan Ping
Published: December 2020

Athletes are not allowed to use performance-enhancing drugs. Despite many efforts, the use of performance-enhancing drugs still persists in sports. Doping testing in athletes is the main way to determine drug consumption. Taking biological samples from athletes can be used to detect doping. The least invasive method is urine, while hair and saliva can be sampled using a minimally invasive procedure. In contrast, blood sampling is the most invasive method. The development of sample analysis and detection technology is crucial for any kind of sampling method. This review details the progress of electrophoresis and electrochemical detection of diuretics in stimulants.
Drug-induced Cholelithiasis
Authors: Alušík Štefan , Paluch Zoltán
Published: December 2020

Background:

The prevalence of cholelithiasis in developed countries is high and its
cause is multifactorial, with a negligible proportion of drug-induced cholelithiasis.

Methods:

Relevant studies were identified by PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct. Reference
lists of retrieved articles were also reviewed. The most relevant and up-to-date information
was incorporated.

Results:

There is a wide range of drugs that can induce lithiasis. While the risk of developing lithiasis
is high with some drugs (ceftriaxone, atazanavir, somatostatin analogues), it is lower or even
questionable with others. Some drugs precipitate in the bile and may account for up to 100% of the
weight of the stone.

Conclusion:

Cholelithiasis can be induced by a wide range of drugs with different mechanisms of
action. The aim of the article is to draw attention to this lesser known fact and the need to take into
account the risk of developing lithiasis prior to therapy initiation.
Dynamic Role of Macrophage Sub Types on Development of Atherosclerosis and Potential Use of Herbal Immunomodulators as Imminent Therapeutic Strategy
Authors: Duraisamy Parimalanandhini , Ravi Sangeetha , Krishnan Mahalakshmi , Livya Catherene M. , Manikandan Beulaja , Arunagirinathan Koodalingam , Ramar Manikandan
Published: December 2020

:

Atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular disease is a global alarm causing mortality worldwide. Being a progressive disease in the arteries, it mainly causes recruitment of monocytes to the inflammatory sites and subside pathological conditions. Monocyte-derived macrophage mainly acts in foam cell formation by engorging the LDL molecules, oxidizes it into Ox-LDL and leads to plaque deposit development. Macrophages in general differentiate, proliferate and undergo apoptosis at the inflammatory site. Frequently two subtypes of macrophages M1 and M2 has to act crucially in balancing the micro-environmental conditions of endothelial cells in arteries. The productions of proinflammatory mediators like IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α by M1 macrophage has atherogenic properties majorly produced during the early progression of atherosclerotic plaques. To counteract cytokine productions and M1-M2 balance, secondary metabolites (phytochemicals) from plants act as a therapeutic agent in alleviating atherosclerosis progression. This review summarizes the fundamental role of the macrophage in atherosclerotic lesion formation along with its plasticity characteristic as well as recent therapeutic strategies using herbal components and anti-inflammatory cytokines as potential immunomodulators.
Current State and Future Perspectives of Carbon-Based Materials in the Environment: Fate and Application
Authors: Isakovski Marijana K. , Beljin Jelena , Tričković Jelena , Rončević Srđan , Maletić Snežana
Published: December 2020

Background:

Environmental pollution has been a recognized problem for human health
and the ecosystem. Remediation is usually costly and time-consuming, so researchers' attention has
been drowning to develop and use new materials. This review aims to summarize the recent development
of carbon-based materials used for environmental management.

Methods:

We conducted a detailed analysis of available literature based on the Web of Science
database. In the third part of the manuscript are given some of the recent patents on carbon-based
materials. The corresponding papers were carefully evaluated.

Results:

More than one hundred and ninety papers were included in section literature. Based on the
available literature it an increasing trend in carbon-based material usage can be observed. These
materials are used in resolving environmental issues: adsorbents in water and wastewater treatment;
precursor of catalysts, soil improvement, waste management, climate change mitigation, electrochemical
energy storage and soil remediation adsorption processes. Although it is a mainly new
approach considered as environmentally friendly, there are finding, observation, negative aspects,
and conclusion that must be taken into consideration.

Conclusion:

The findings of this review confirm that many factors must be considered when carbon-based materials
are used. At the same time, this review aims to emphasize development trends in providing a useful guide to design
and fabricate high-efficiency and low-cost carbon materials.
Weaning from Mechanical Ventilator in a Long-term Acute Care Hospital: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Surani Salim , Sharma Munish , Middagh Kevin , Bernal Hector , Varon Joseph , Ratnani Iqbal , Anjum Humayun , Khan Alamgir
Published: December 2020

Background:

Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation (PMV) is associated with a higher cost of care and increased morbidity and mortality. Patients requiring PMV are referred mostly to Long-Term Acute Care (LTAC) facilities.

Objective:

To determine if protocol-driven weaning from mechanical ventilator by Respiratory Therapist (RT) would result in quicker weaning from mechanical ventilation, cost-effectiveness, and decreased mortality.

Methods:

A retrospective case-control study was conducted that utilized protocol-driven ventilator weaning by respiratory therapist (RT) as a part of the Respiratory Disease Certification Program (RDCP).

Results:

51 patients on mechanical ventilation before initiation of protocol-based ventilator weaning formed the control group. 111 patients on mechanical ventilation after implementation of the protocol formed the study group. Time to wean from the mechanical ventilation before the implementation of protocol-driven weaning by RT was 16.76 +/- 18.91 days, while that after the implementation of protocol was 7.67 +/- 6.58 days (p < 0.0001). Mortality proportion in patients after implementation of protocol-based ventilator weaning was 0.21 as compared to 0.37 in the control group (p=0.0153). The daily cost of patient care for the LTAC while on mechanical ventilation was $2200/day per patient while it was $ 1400/day per patient while not on mechanical ventilation leading to significant cost savings.

Conclusion:

Protocol-driven liberation from mechanical ventilation in LTAC by RT can significantly decrease the duration of a mechanical ventilator, leading to decreased mortality and cost savings.
Quercetin in Attenuation of Ischemic/Reperfusion Injury: A Review
Authors: Ashrafizadeh Milad , Samarghandian Saeed , Hushmandi Kiavash , Zabolian Amirhossein , Shahinozzaman Md , Saleki Hossein , Esmaeili Hossein , Raei Mehdi , Entezari Maliheh , Zarrabi Ali , Najafi Masoud
Published: December 2020

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a serious pathologic event that occurs due to restriction
in blood supply to an organ, followed by hypoxia. This condition leads to enhanced levels of
pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α, and stimulation of oxidative stress via enhancing
reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Upon reperfusion, blood supply incz reases, but it
deteriorates condition and leads to the generation of ROS, cell membrane disruption and finally,
cell death. Plant derived-natural compounds are well-known due to their excellent antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory activities. Quercetin is a flavonoid exclusively found in different vegetables,
herbs, and fruits. This naturally occurring compound possesses different pharmacological activities
making it an appropriate option in disease therapy. Quercetin can also demonstrate therapeutic effects
via affecting molecular pathways such as NF-κB, PI3K/Akt and so on. In the present review,
we demonstrate that quercetin administration is beneficial in ameliorating I/R injury via reducing
ROS levels, inhibition of inflammation, and affecting molecular pathways such as TLR4/NF-κB,
MAPK and so on. Quercetin can improve cell membrane integrity via decreasing lipid peroxidation.
Apoptotic cell death is inhibited by quercetin via downregulation of Bax, and caspases, and
upregulation of Bcl-2. Quercetin is able to modulate autophagy (inhibition/induction) in decreasing
I/R injury. Nanoparticles have been applied for the delivery of quercetin, enhancing its bioavailability
and efficacy in the alleviation of I/R injury. Noteworthy, clinical trials have also confirmed the
capability of quercetin in reducing I/R injury.
The Relationships Between Early Maladaptive Schemas, Quality of Life and Self-care Behaviors in a Sample of Persons Living with HIV: The Potential Mediating Role of Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies
Authors: SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad , MohsseniPour Mehrzad , Aghaei Elahe , Zarani Fariba , Fathabadi Jalil , . Mona Mohammadifirouzeh
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

People who are living with HIV often experience physical as well as psychological challenges. Therefore, the aim of this descriptive, correlational study was to explore the potential mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation strategies in the relationships between early maladaptive schemas, quality of life, and self-care behavior in patients with HIV/AIDS.

Methods:

In the first half of 2017, patients with HIV/AIDS (N=240) were recruited from an HIV clinic in Tehran, Iran. A self-report questionnaire included the Young Schema Questionnaire-Short Form (YSQSF), Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), short form of Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ), and a self-care behaviors questionnaire. The data analysis involved using advanced statistical techniques for structural equation modeling.

Results:

There were significant, inverse relationships between all five areas of early maladaptive schemas and positive cognitive emotional regulation strategies, self-care behaviors, and quality of life. Also, there were significant, positive relationships between all five areas of early maladaptive schemas and negative cognitive and emotional regulation strategies.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that practical interventions to reduce maladaptive responses may result in healthier outcomes for persons living with HIV.
Electrocoagulation for the Removal of Copper and Zinc Ions from Water Using Iron Electrodes
Authors: Ahmad Majida K. , Mohammed Mais A. , Barbooti Mahmood M.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Many methods have been suggested for the removal of heavy metals from water to protect human health and the environment. Methods like precipitation and adsorption were proposed for this purpose.

Objective:

Electrocoagulation involves the generation of coagulant by the action of electricity on two metal electrodes (iron or aluminium) to aid the process of water decontamination.

Methods:

Electrodeposition cell was made with iron electrodes and application of voltage from the power supply (5-25 V) dipped in the working solution (Cu and Zn) at various concentrations (10-50 mg.mL-1) for 30-150 min. Samples were drawn and analysed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry.

Results:

The work indicated efficient removal of the metal ions. The dependence of removal efficiency on the three parameters was studied. The behaviour of the two metal ions was not identical. At low initial concentration, the electrolysis voltage was very important in the removal of Zn and Cu ions. Electrolysis time is essential in the removal process and shows a polynomial dependence of removal efficiency on time. Electrolysis time of 150 min resulted in almost complete removal (94-97%) regardless of the initial concentration. Both co-precipitation and adsorption mechanisms may be involved.

Conclusion:

The removal efficiency was directly dependent on the initial metal ion concentration and electrolysis time. The process gave removal efficiency for copper that is higher than that of the zinc.
Practical study on test accommodations for students with visual impairments based on scientific evidence.
Authors: Nakano Yasushi
Published: December 2020

Professor Yasushi Nakano, based in the Faculty of Economics, Keio University in Japan, is carrying out interconnected research studies geared towards improving the quality of life for people with visual impairments, which specifically includes university students in Japan. A particular
goal for Nakano is creating a high-quality higher-education environment in which students with visual impairments can flourish. As part of this, he and his team are working to create an accessible textbook system and accessible test conditions for students with visual impairments.
Realtime production scheduling and control systems in smart industry
Authors: Weng Wei
Published: December 2020

For a production system, 'scheduling' aims to find out which machine/worker processes which job at what time to produce the best result for user-set objectives, such as minimising the total cost. Finding the optimal solution to a large scheduling problem, however, is extremely time
consuming due to the high complexity. To reduce this time to one instance, Dr Wei Weng, from the Institute of Liberal Arts and Science, Kanazawa University in Japan, is leading research projects on developing online scheduling and control systems that provide near-optimal solutions in real
time, even for large production systems. In her system, a large scheduling problem will be solved as distributed small problems and information of jobs and machines is collected online to provide results instantly. This will bring two big changes: 1. Large scheduling problems, for which it
tends to take days to reach the optimal solution, will be solved instantly by reaching near-optimal solutions; 2. Rescheduling, which is still difficult to be made in real time by optimization algorithms, will be completed instantly in case some urgent jobs arrive or some scheduled jobs need
to be changed or cancelled during production. The projects have great potential in raising efficiency of scheduling and production control in future smart industry and enabling achieving lower costs, higher productivity and better customer service.
CRISPR-CAS9 como ferramenta para edição do gene IT-15 na Doença de Huntington
Authors: Godoy Letícia Alves de , Bomfim Fernando Russo Costa do
Published: December 2020

A Doença de Huntington (DH) é uma doença neurodegenerativa, autossômica dominante e hereditária que ocorre devido a uma mutação genética que gera uma sequência repetitiva de trinucleotídeos CAG, presentes no gene IT-15, gene da huntingtina, localizado no cromossomo 4. O objetivo foi revisar a neuropatologia da doença de Huntington (DH) e a utilização do método CRISPR-Cas9 para silenciar o gene IT-15 e verificar assim, a consequência nos genes HIP14 e HAP1, que possuem interação com a Huntigtina mutada e o resultado desta no organismo do paciente. Foram pesquisados artigos em bases indexadas (Scielo, PubMed e LILACs) com os seguintes descritores: ((Huntington) OR (Proteína Huntingtina)) AND (edição gênica).  Também foi utilizada a ferramenta on line GeneMania, acesso livre, para análise de probabilidades e interações gênicas. O silenciamento do gene IT-15 acarreta alterações nas proteínas que interagem com a Huntingtina mutada, levando a perturbações em diversos processos.
Análise de prevalência e mortalidade associada ao melanoma cutâneo em pacientes atendidos em centro de referência no Oeste do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, de 2002 a 2016
Authors: Moreno Marcelo , Schmidt Juliana Cristina , Grosbelli Luiza , Dassi Maykel , Mierzwa Rafael Victor
Published: December 2020

Objetivo: determinar a epidemiologia e as características clínicas do melanoma cutâneo (MC) na região Oeste do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Métodos: este estudo transversal e descritivo avaliou o comportamento clínico e o perfil epidemiológico do MC em pacientes de 78 municípios do Oeste do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, no período de 2002 a 2016, tratados no Sistema Único de Saúde. Para a análise dos dados foi utilizado o teste do Qui-quadrado. Para elaborar as curvas de sobrevida, foi considerado um período de 10 anos (teste Log Rank). Resultados: dados de 1.146 pacientes foram avaliados, e houve uma média de 20 casos/100.000 habitantes/ano. Encontravam-se nos estágios I e II 63,5% dos pacientes. A sobrevida global em 10 anos de acompanhamento foi de 89%(IC95% 87,7% - 91,5%). Pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram maior sobrevida (94,5%; IC95% 92,7% - 96,4% vs. 82,6%; IC95% 78,9% - 86,3%; p < 0,001) e variáveis de melhor prognóstico. Conclusões: o Oeste do estado de Santa Catarina apresentou uma alta prevalência de MC. As características clínicas e epidemiológicas encontradas concordam com as descritas nas populações que residem em regiões geográficas equivalentes; mas diferem de outras regiões do Brasil. Essas diferenças, associadas à organização do sistema público de saúde de referência e contra-referência, podem explicar aos resultados de sobrevida encontrados.
Classification Accuracy of Hepatitis C Virus Infection Outcome: Data Mining Approach
Authors: Frias Mario , Moyano Jose M , Rivero-Juarez Antonio , Luna Jose M , Camacho Ángela , Fardoun Habib M , Machuca Isabel , Al-Twijri Mohamed , Rivero Antonio , Ventura Sebastian
Published: December 2020

Background

The dataset from genes used to predict hepatitis C virus outcome was evaluated in a previous study using a conventional statistical methodology.

Objective

The aim of this study was to reanalyze this same dataset using the data mining approach in order to find models that improve the classification accuracy of the genes studied.

Methods

We built predictive models using different subsets of factors, selected according to their importance in predicting patient classification. We then evaluated each independent model and also a combination of them, leading to a better predictive model.

Results

Our data mining approach identified genetic patterns that escaped detection using conventional statistics. More specifically, the partial decision trees and ensemble models increased the classification accuracy of hepatitis C virus outcome compared with conventional methods.

Conclusions

Data mining can be used more extensively in biomedicine, facilitating knowledge building and management of human diseases.
Effects of ACT Out! Social Issue Theater on Social-Emotional Competence and Bullying in Youth and Adolescents: Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Agley Jon , Jun Mikyoung , Eldridge Lori , Agley Daniel L , Xiao Yunyu , Sussman Steve , Golzarri-Arroyo Lilian , Dickinson Stephanie L , Jayawardene Wasantha , Gassman Ruth
Published: December 2020

Background

Schools increasingly prioritize social-emotional competence and bullying and cyberbullying prevention, so the development of novel, low-cost, and high-yield programs addressing these topics is important. Further, rigorous assessment of interventions prior to widespread dissemination is crucial.

Objective

This study assesses the effectiveness and implementation fidelity of the ACT Out! Social Issue Theater program, a 1-hour psychodramatic intervention by professional actors; it also measures students’ receptiveness to the intervention.

Methods

This study is a 2-arm cluster randomized control trial with 1:1 allocation that randomized either to the ACT Out! intervention or control (treatment as usual) at the classroom level (n=76 classrooms in 12 schools across 5 counties in Indiana, comprised of 1571 students at pretest in fourth, seventh, and tenth grades). The primary outcomes were self-reported social-emotional competence, bullying perpetration, and bullying victimization; the secondary outcomes were receptiveness to the intervention, implementation fidelity (independent observer observation), and prespecified subanalyses of social-emotional competence for seventh- and tenth-grade students. All outcomes were collected at baseline and 2-week posttest, with planned 3-months posttest data collection prevented due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Intervention fidelity was uniformly excellent (>96% adherence), and students were highly receptive to the program. However, trial results did not support the hypothesis that the intervention would increase participants’ social-emotional competence. The intervention’s impact on bullying was complicated to interpret and included some evidence of small interaction effects (reduced cyberbullying victimization and increased physical bullying perpetration). Additionally, pooled within-group reductions were also observed and discussed but were not appropriate for causal attribution.

Conclusions

This study found no superiority for a 1-hour ACT Out! intervention compared to treatment as usual for social-emotional competence or offline bullying, but some evidence of a small effect for cyberbullying. On the basis of these results and the within-group effects, as a next step, we encourage research into whether the ACT Out! intervention may engender a bystander effect not amenable to randomization by classroom. Therefore, we recommend a larger trial of the ACT Out! intervention that focuses specifically on cyberbullying, measures bystander behavior, is randomized by school, and is controlled for extant bullying prevention efforts at each school.

Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04097496; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04097496

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR2-10.2196/17900
Management of Acute Appendicitis in Children During COVID-19 and Perspectives of Pediatric Surgeons From South Asia: Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hannan Md Jafrul , Parveen Mosammat Kohinoor , Hoque Md Mozammel , Chowdhury Tanvir Kabir , Hasan Md Samiul , Nandy Alak
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Nonoperative treatment (NOT) of pediatric appendicitis as opposed to surgery elicits great debate and is potentially influenced by physician preferences. Owing to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on health care, the practice of NOT has generally increased by necessity and may, in a post–COVID-19 world, change surgeons’ perceptions of NOT.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of NOT has increased in South Asia and whether these levels of practice would be sustained after the pandemic subsides.

METHODS

A survey was conducted among pediatric surgeons regarding their position, institute, and country; the number of appendicitis cases they managed; and their mode of treatment between identical time periods in 2019 and 2020 (April 1 to August 31). The survey also directly posed the question as to whether they would continue with the COVID-19–imposed level of NOT after the effect of the pandemic diminishes.

RESULTS

A total of 134 responses were collected out of 200 (67.0%). A significant increase in the practice of NOT was observed for the entire cohort, although no effect was observed when grouped by country or institute. When grouped by position, senior physicians increased the practice of NOT the most, while junior physicians reported the least change. The data suggest that only professors would be inclined to maintain the COVID-19–level of NOT practice after the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased practice of NOT during the COVID-19 pandemic was observed in South Asia, particularly by senior surgeons. Only professors appeared inclined to consider maintaining this increased level of practice in the post–COVID-19 world.
Principles of space planning solutions applicable to low-rise buildings in Kesab, Syria
Authors: Saoud Yara  , Zabalueva Tatiana R.
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Latakia Governorate, Syria, includes Kesab located in a mountainous area. Plains, that are good for construction purposes, are depleted; therefore, mountain slopes have to accommodate new construction projects. The analysis of space planning solutions, designated for single-family residential houses, was performed with regard for the terrain of Kesab. This analysis underlies the fundamental principles of the architectural solutions that take account of the following factors: the slope type/orientation, the layout of buildings in relation to the slope and access routes, the use of the “bearing floor” design system that reduces construction costs, the use of cantilever solutions for first floors, the availability of summer premises protected from overheating in the Kesab climate, the orientation of the slope towards cardinal points, and traditions of Arabic families. Principles of architectural design of single-family residential houses with account taken of the local terrain constitute the subject of this research. The objective is to develop recommendations designated for architectural solutions for single-family residential houses to be built in the mountainous environment of Kesab, to assure indoor comfort depending on the earth grade and terrain orientation towards cardinal points, and to reduce construction costs.

Materials and methods. The research is based on the analysis of the Kesab terrain, the analysis of potential construction work to be performed on the slopes having different orientations, the use of the “bearing floor” structural system, the analysis of effective Syrian and Russian regulations and data sources.

Results. As a result of research into a single-family residential house built with regard for the Kesab terrain in Syria, the co-authors developed design principles applicable to single-family residential houses in the areas featuring rough terrain.

Conclusions. The recommendations are designated for low-rise single-family houses that have different orientations towards cardinal points in the areas that have varied earth grades like Kesab located in the mountain valley.
Problem vision as an element of methodological culture of a researching teacher
Authors: Berezhnova Elena V. , Magina Anastasia I.
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Training highly qualified personnel has long been in the focus of attention of research and teaching communities. Building methodological culture among postgraduate students, or future researching teachers, is one of their important tasks. The purpose of this study is to identify the presence of methodological culture among first-year postgraduates. Methodological culture is the ability to identify problems of higher education science. Materials and methods. Didactic testing and observation were used to perform the research. Problem ranking in higher education science made it possible to identify the priority areas for postgraduate students to solve professional and educational problems. Results. A range of problems, which are, in the opinion of postgraduate students, relevant to higher education science, was identified. Problem ranking was performed, and preferences of postgraduate students (choices that underlie solutions) were revealed: teacher’s professional skills, quality of education, career guidance, choosing a career, and personal development of students. The analysis of problems can serve as the basis for enhancing the system of training highly qualified personnel. Conclusions. Some of the problems represented organizational difficulties which were subjective by nature. The problems were relevant for postgraduate students only, they had nothing to do with research. However, the emphasis on the above-mentioned difficulties revealed insufficient psychological and pedagogical training of future researching teachers, and it can be explained by their professional focus on civil engineering. Their training can be improved by updating the content of academic disciplines, included into principal professional education programs, and launching special courses compiled at the request of postgraduate students to satisfy their educational needs. It is noteworthy that individualization of training and tutoring, which are relevant both for postgraduate students and the education science, needs the efforts of the faculty, the university management team, and researchers in charge of new education practices.
El documental y el noir: hibridación a través del cine de género ficcional
Authors: Lanza Pablo
Published: December 2020

Este artículo se propone trabajar sobre el problema de la hibridación en el cine documental. Habitualmente considerado un rasgo del cine contemporáneo, el objetivo es efectuar un repaso de corte diacrónico para revisar esta hipótesis; para ello se hará foco en el intercambio del género policial con el documental en dos momentos distintos de la filmografía argentina: la década del cincuenta, con el ciclo ficcional de policiales llamadas “semidocumentales”, y dos documentales contemporáneos que dialogan con el estilo del film noir. Para el análisis se repasan conceptos como híbrido y género, y se consideran las particularidades del estilo documental en ambos períodos, donde se puede observar el paso de un estilo impersonal a los relatos en primera persona.
Características y competencias de la enseñanza del periodismo digital en el grado de Periodismo en las universidades públicas españolas
Authors: López-Martín Álvaro , Córdoba-Cabús Alba
Published: December 2020

La transformación del panorama comunicativo a raíz de la digitalización y la implantación del Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior (EEES) han obligado a configurar una nueva oferta curricular del grado en Periodismo con el propósito de dar respuesta a las demandas del mercado laboral. En esta investigación se pretende explorar —a través del análisis de las guías docentes y planes de estudios de las veinte universidades públicas españolas en las que se imparte el grado de Periodismo— las características y competencias actuales vinculadas a la enseñanza del periodismo digital o ciberperiodismo. Se aprecia que la incidencia de este asunto en el currículo académico es aún moderada. Por ello resulta necesario que las competencias digitales sean transversales durante la formación, así como repensar la titulación de manera constante para adaptarla al entorno periodístico. Se extrae también que la preponderancia de las competencias prácticas hace que la enseñanza de destrezas teóricas apenas tenga cabida en la planificación de las asignaturas.
La caminabilidad en el centro de Río Gallegos. Septiembre 2014
Authors: Puca María Fernanda , Valdebenito Yanina Paola , Aceves Padilla Karla Lizeth , Cáceres Alicia P. , Frías Patricia
Published: December 2020

El centro de Río Gallegos, presenta una gran variedad de estados de las aceras/veredas en el cual se puede llegar a ocasionar algún tipo de riesgo para el peatón. Este trabajo tiene como finalidad analizar e indagar sobre la Caminabilidad en el centro de Río Gallegos; conocer los parámetros que determinan a este concepto. La Caminabilidad es un concepto contemporáneo que tomó preponderancia luego de que surgieran las ciudades sostenibles en Europa. Esta concepción conlleva a que el espacio público sea más equilibrado entre los medios de transporte y el peatón. Esto requiere a la vez una verdadera implicancia de políticas de urbanización para lograr un ambiente más “caminable”. Metodológicamente, la información se obtiene con la recolección de datos a través de la observación directa, donde se aplicaron fórmulas utilizadas por el programa de Excel, y posteriormente es procesada a través de un SIG (Sistemas de Información Geográfica). Los resultados reflejaron datos significativos, obteniendo valoraciones generales de estados desde Muy Malo a Muy Bueno, que posee cada lado de las manzanas del centro de Río Gallegos. Por último, se presentan sugerencias para tomar consciencia sobre el estado del centro de la ciudad, ayudar a la planificación urbana, y al cuidado del centro. A la vez, darle una valoración a este espacio, sabiendo que es un lugar donde transitan muchas personas continuamente.
Nuestro mundo cubierto de plástico: de la movilidad global del plástico a las consecuencias y respuestas locales
Authors: Espino Penilla Marisol , Koot Yenthl
Published: December 2020

La contaminación plástica es un problema mundial importante en la realidad actual, causado por los patrones de producción, consumo y pos-consumo de plástico. Los plásticos se han globalizado y el turismo contribuye a este proceso. Este documento busca desentrañar los diferentes impulsores detrás de la movilidad global del plástico y analizar cómo el turismo contribuye y se ve afectado por este proceso. Examina la naturaleza del problema de los residuos plásticos y cómo se intensifica con los efectos globalizadores de la industria del turismo. El caso de la Isla de Pascua, que se encuentra cerca del parche de basura más grande en el Gran Océano Pacífico, se utiliza para ilustrar cómo la movilidad global de los flujos de plástico afecta a las localidades en islas remotas cuyas economías dependen del turismo. Este caso nos permite hacer una evaluación minuciosa de la escala global de la contaminación plástica.
Rationale for the Choice of a Positioning System for Mobile Agricultural Robot Movement Controlling
Authors: Teterev A. V.
Published: December 2020

A correctly selected positioning system for controlling the mobile robotic means movement ensures high positioning accuracy of the robotic platform in the garden, allows to automate precise operations in the garden and systematize route planning algorithms.

(Research purpose) To substantiate the rational choice of a positioning system for controlling the mobile robotic device movement.

(Materials and methods) The author formulated requirements for the positioning system to perform precise operations in the garden: mechanized collection of fruits and berries, diff erentiated application of fertilizers and chemical plant protection products. The main ones were: the positioning error was no more than 5 centimetres, the stability of information transfer to the server for building traffi c maps, the movement of a robotic device along a given trajectory, equipping beacons with a mobile power source with a capacity of at least 800 milliampere-hour, information exchange between the beacon and the built-in robotic means with a microprocessor controller according to the RS-485 standard, the signal coverage area was at least 100 square meter.

(Results and discussion) The six most relevant positioning systems of the following manufacturers were described: RealTrac, Rusoft CKT, Neomatic, ISBC, Avtosensor, Marvelmind. The author compared their technical and operational parameters: operating frequencies, range, data transfer interface, location accuracy and cost of ready-made kits. He showed that Marvelmind provided uninterrupted operation at frequencies of 433 and 915 megahertz with a positioning error of no more than 2 centimetres. The tests were carried out on a small robotic vehicle with the following characteristics: maximum transport speed – 30 kilometre per hour, operating weight – 500 kilograms, length 2 metres, width – 1.2 metres, height – 1.6 metres.

(Conclusions) The author substantiated the choice of the most suitable and aff ordable Marvelmind positioning system and experimentally confi rmed the positioning accuracy declared by the manufacturer. When driving in a loop-free and looped turn, the positioning accuracy did not exceed 1.5 centimetres, which met the agrotechnical requirements for mechanized collection of fruits and berries, for diff erentiated application of fertilizers and chemical plant protection products
Evaluation of Agricultural Machinery Operation Modes
Authors: Kostomakhin M. N.
Published: December 2020

The author presented material on the evaluation of agricultural machines operating modes and operating conditions using the technical condition monitoring system developed by scientists of the Federal Scientifi c Agroengineering Center VIM. He showed an example of proximity sensors use on the Kioti CK22 tractor to assess the emergency mode of operation, which could subsequently lead to premature failure. The author considered the possibilities of the most rational application of the remote monitoring algorithm to diagnostics – to identify the causes of malfunctions.

(Research purpose) To improve the existing and develop new technologies for remote evaluation of the machines current technical condition throughout the entire operation.

(Materials and methods) It was confi rmed that the remote monitoring system algorithm developed by the VIM scientists made it possible to provide automated control of the units and machine assemblies technical condition parameters. The system was operated on the basis of documenting the facts of the machine's operation in emergency or pre-emergency modes. The parameters control within the acceptable limits was provided.

(Results and discussion) After analyzing the failure reasons, the author established the initial nomenclature of the studied processes. An algorithm for remote parameters monitoring was developed, which made it possible to assess the machine operating modes. He tested the algorithm functionality using the example of installing proximity sensors and an on-board computer on a Kioti CK22 tractor.

(Conclusions) Using the installed on-board system and 8 sensors,information was obtained that made it possible to assess the current technical condition of the Kioti CK22 tractor based on the dynamics of 8 monitored parameters characterizing a gradual change in the functionality of the machine/system and aff ecting technical and environmental safety