bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nomogram to Predict the Occurrence and Prognosis of Distant Metastasis in T1n0 Colon Cancer: A Seer Data-Based Study
Authors: Liu Yunxiao , Zhang Hao , Zheng Mingyu , Wang Chunlin , Hu Zhiqiao , Wang Yang , Xiong Huan , Fan Boyang , Wang Yuliuming , Hu Hanqing , Tang Qingchao , Wang Guiyu
Published: April 2021

Distant metastasis (DM) is relatively rare in T1 colon cancer (CC) patients, especially in those with negative lymph node metastasis. The aim of this study was to explore the main clinical factors and build nomogram for predicting the occurrence and prognosis of DM in T1N0 colon cancer patients. Patients with T1N0 stage colon cancer were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result (SEER) database. All patients were divided into development and validation cohorts with the 3:1 ratio. A total of 6770 patients were enrolled in this study, including 428 patients (6.3%) with DM. Age, size, grade, CEA were independent risk factors associated with DM. Age, grade, CEA, surgery and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors for CSS. Nomogram were applied and C-index, calibration curves, ROC curves and DCA curves proved good discrimination, calibration and clinical practicability of the nomogram in predicting the occurrence and prognosis of DM in T1N0 colon cancer patients. The population-based nomogram could help clinicians predict the occurrence and prognosis of DM in T1N0 CC patients and provide a reference to perform appropriate metastatic screening plans and rational therapeutic options for the special population.
Performance of M-MRC over Generalized-K Fading Channel based on Energy Harvesting Technique
Authors: Deka Nandita , Subadar Rupaban
Published: April 2021

The customary uses of the multi-antenna systems are to reduce the effect of fading in a wireless environment. The maximal ratio combining (MRC) scheme is one of such techniques which provide the optimal performance. This paper analyse the performance measures of an arbitrary branch MRC receiver with energy harvesting techniques over KG fading channel. We have presented the closed-form expressions for average SNR, outage probability, and average bit error rate (ABER) along with the numerical analysis. Our observations are summarized in the numerical results and discussion section for well understanding of the system. At last, we validate our proposed formulations through the Monte-Carlo simulation.
Supramolecular Viscosity Modifiers With Salt-responsive and Ph-switchable Characteristics for Hydraulic Fracturing Applications
Authors: Liu Shuhao , Lin Yu-Ting , Sentmanat Martin L. , Kwon Joseph , Akbulut Mustafa , Bhat Bhargavi
Published: April 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Spatio-Temporal Changes of Snow Cover and Its Relationship With Meteorological Factors on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Jin Haoyu , chen xiaohong
Published: April 2021

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (TP) is one of the most sensitive areas to climate change, and its ecological environment changes directly or indirectly reflect the global climate change trend. The snow cover ratio (SCR) is an important indicator reflecting the climate and environmental changes of the TP. The daily remote sensing data of snow cover on the TP from 2003 to 2014 were used to study the spatio-temporal distribution of snow cover on the TP. The results have shown that the average snowmelt day on the TP starts on the 103rd day and ends on the 223rd day of a year, and the snowmelt duration has a downward trend. Snow is mainly distributed in the Nyainqentanglha Mountains, Karakoram Mountains and Himalayas. The SCR in summer has a downward trend, while in autumn has a rising trend. This shows that the difference in SCR during the year has enlarged, increasing the risk of snowmelt floods. The SCR is highly correlated with temperature, but weakly correlated with precipitation. Using the long-term remote sensing data of snow cover, the distribution of glacier coverage on the TP can be extracted, in which glaciers on the TP account for about 1%. This research provides an important reference for in-depth understanding of the snow cover changes on the TP and their impact on the environment.
Low-Frequency Characterization of Music Sounds - Ultra-Bass Richness From the Sound Wave Beats
Authors: Morikawa Masahiro
Published: April 2021

The orchestra performance is full of sublime rich sounds. In particular, the unison of violins sounds different from the solo violin. We try to clarify this difference and similarity of unison and solo numerically analyzing the beat of ‘violins‘ with timbre, vibrato, melody, and resonance. Characteristic properties appear in the very low-frequency part in the power spectrum of the wave amplitude squared. This ultra-buss richness (UBR) can be a new characteristic of sound on top of the well-known pitch, loudness, and timbre, although being inaudible directly. We find this UBR is always characterized by a power-law at low-frequency with the index around −1 and appears everywhere in music and thus being universal. Furthermore, we explore this power-law property towards much smaller frequency regions and suggest possible relation to the 1/f noise often found in music and many other fields in nature.
Peripheral oxygen measurements in suspected elderly COVID-19 patients can be an effective tool for alerting physicians
Authors: Souza Carmino A De , Miranda Eliana C M , Hadich Deise , Nunes Monica , Masetto Debora , Morato Daiane C P , Scandiuzzi Raquel , Ferreira Maria do Carmo , Zambon Lair , Zuben Andrea von
Published: April 2021

Since December 2019 the world has been facing a newly identified coronavirus named SarsCov-2 which is the causative agent of COVID-19 that produces different symptoms. One of these symptoms is asymptomatic hypoxia, particularly in elderly patients. Despite the absence of signs of respiratory distress, many patients evolve to respiratory failure. The cause of this asymptomatic hypoxia remains unclear; therefore our goal was to evaluate the utility of peripheral oxygen measurements using oximetry in elderly patients with suspected COVID-19 and with no apparent signs of shortness of breath, during 10 consecutive days. Every elderly patient with suspected COVID-19 who sought medical care at one of the 12 Primary Health Unit (PHU) in the South-West area of Campinas, Sao Paulo State was enrolled in the 10-days monitoring report. Each patient had the levels of oxygen saturation (SpO2) monitored by pulse oximeter from the fifth to the tenth days after the onset of symptoms and, when possible, twice a day; 1297 patients (pts) were followed during the period from August 2020 to February 2021. A total of 9023 measurements were carried out using a SpO2 pulse oximeter. 163 (12.5%) cases were referred to the Emergency Room and 37 (3%) had to be hospitalized. The highest frequencies of symptoms occurred during the 6th and 8th day and included cough (16.8%), fatigue (12.8%), headache (9.7%), loss of taste and/or smell (6.8%). Among the patients who were hospitalized, 13 died (1%). The asymptomatic hypoxia remains unclear; however, the measurement of SpO2 levels appears to be a cheap and effective tool to be used as an alert system for further evaluation.
Study Protocol for a Pilot High Intensity Interval Training Intervention in Inpatient Mental Health Settings: A Two-Part Study Using a Randomised Controlled Trial and Naturalistic Study Design
Authors: Martland Rebecca , Onwumere Juliana , Stubbs Brendon , Gaughran Fiona
Published: April 2021

Background: Severe mental illnesses (SMI), including schizophrenia spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder are associated with physical health comorbidities and premature mortality. Physical activity and structured exercise have a beneficial impact on cardiometabolic risk and ameliorate mental health symptomology and cognition. This protocol describes a feasibility study for a high intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention amongst inpatients with SMI, to improve their physical and mental health. Methods: The feasibility study follows a two-part design owing to Covid-19 related adaptations to project design: a) A non-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 12 weeks of bicycle-based HIIT, delivered twice weekly in a face-to-face, one-to-one setting, compared to treatment as usual (TAU). b) A naturalistic study of inpatient HIIT; eligible participants will be invited to two sessions of HIIT per week, delivered by the research team remotely or in person. Additionally, participants may use the bike to conduct self-directed sessions of their chosen length and intensity. We will measure feasibility and acceptability of the HIIT intervention as primary outcomes, alongside secondary and tertiary outcomes evaluating the physical, mental and cognitive effects of HIIT. The study aims to recruit 40 patients to the RCT and 6-8 patients to the naturalistic design. Discussion: Exercise is a modifiable lifestyle barrier that can reverse cardiometabolic disease risk. If HIIT is found to be feasible and acceptable in inpatients with SMI there would be scope for large scale work to evaluate the clinical, cost and implementation effectiveness of HIIT in inpatient mental health settings. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, registration no: NCT03959735, registered 22/05/2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03959735
Scutellarin combined with Lidocaine: a new combination of anti-glioma drugs
Authors: He Xiu-Ying , Zhao Xiao-Ming , Xia Qing-Jie , Zhou Lei , Wang Ting-Hua
Published: April 2021

Background

Glioma is the most common primary intracranial tumors. Although great achievements in the treatment have been made, the efficacy is still not satisfactory, which imposes a great burden on patients and society. Therefore, the exploration of new and effective anti-glioma drugs is urgent.
Methods

Human glioma cells U251 and LN229 cells were included in the study. The proliferation was detected by cell counting kit-8, plate clone formation assay, EdU incorporation assay and xCELLigence real-time cell analyzer. The cell apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL assay and flow cytometry. The transwell assay was for assessing the migration. Moreover, Western blot was performed to detect the protein level of Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).
Results

In present study, we found that Scutellarin(SCU) and Lidocaine suppressed the proliferation and migration, and induced the apoptosis of human glioma cells, including U251 and LN229 cells, in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the combination of Scutellarin and Lidocaine further restrained the proliferation and migration ability of U251 and LN229 cells, while induced their apoptosis. Mechanistically, the effect of Scutellarin and its combination with Lidocaine on glioma cells was partially associated with the downregulation of EGFR protein.
Conclusions

Scutellarin and Lidocaine exert a synergistic effect on suppressing the proliferation and migration and induce the apoptosis of glioma cells partly via repressing the EGFR expression.
Simulating Convective-Radiative Heat Sinks Effect by means of FEA-based Gaussian Heat Sources and Its Approximate Analytical Solutions for Semi-Infinite Body
Authors: Nguyen Ninh The , Chujutalli John H
Published: April 2021

FEA-based Gaussian density heat source models were developed to study the effect of convective and radiative heat sinks on the transient temperature field predicted by the available approximate analytical solution of the purely conduction-based Goldak’s heat source. A new complex 3D Gaussian heat source model, incorporating all three modes of heat transfer, i.e., conduction, convection and radiation, has been developed as an extension of the Goldak heat source. Its approximate transient analytical solutions for this 3-D moving heat source were derived and numerically benchmarked with the available measured temperature & weld pool geometry data by Matlab programming with ~5 to 6 times faster than FEA-based simulation. The new complex 3D Gaussian heat source model and its approximate solution could significantly reduce the computing time in generating the transient temperature field and become an efficient alternative to extensive FEA-based simulations of heating sequences, where virtual optimisation of a melting heat source (i.e. used in welding, heating, cutting or other advanced manufacturing processes) is desirable for characterisation of material behaviour in microstructure evolution, melted pool, microhardness, residual stress and distortions.
Assessing the Effect of Interaction Between C-Reactive Protein and Gut Microbiome on the Risks of Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Chen Yujing , Meng Peilin , Cheng Shiqiang , Jia Yumeng , Wen Yan , Yang Xuena , Yao Yao , Pan Chuyu , Li Chun’e , Zhang Huijie , Zhang Jingxi , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Feng
Published: April 2021

Cumulative evidence shows that gut microbiome can influence brain function and behavior via the inflammatory processes. However, the role of interaction between gut dysbiosis and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the development of anxiety and depression remains to be elucidated. In this study, a total of 3,321 independent SNP loci associated with gut microbiome were driven from genome-wide association study (GWAS). Using individual level genotype data from UK Biobank, we then calculated the polygenetic risk scoring (PRS) of 114 gut microbiome related traits. Moreover, regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the possible effect of interaction between gut microbiome and CRP on the risks of Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) (N = 113693) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) (N = 114219). At last, 11 candidate CRP× gut microbiome interacting were detected for PHQ-9 score, such as F_Ruminococcaceae (β=-0.009, P=2.2×10-3), G_Akkermansia (β=-0.008, P=7.60×10-3), F_Acidaminococcaceae (β=0.008, P=1.22×10-2), G_Holdemanella (β=-0.007, P=1.39×10-2) and O_Lactobacillales (β=0.006，P=1.79×10-2). 16 candidate CRP ×gut microbiome interacting were detected for GAD-7 score, such as O_Bacteroidales (β=0.010, P=4.00×10-4), O_Selenomonadales (β=-0.010, P=1.20×10-3), O_Clostridiales (β=0.009, P=2.70×10-3) and G_Holdemanella (β= -0.008, P=4.20×10-3). Our results support the significant effect of interaction between CRP and gut microbiome on the risks of anxiety and depression, and identified several candidate gut microbiome for them.
Efficacy of Guizhi Fuling Wan for Primary dysmenorrhea: protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yun Du , Li Yatong , Fu Xianyun , Luo Yanan , Li Chenjie
Published: April 2021

BackgroundPrimary dysmenorrhea (PD) is one of main gynecological complaints in women of child-bearing age, but there are limited effective treatments available. Guizhi Fuling Wan (GFW), one of the most widely known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal formulas, has been the treatment of choice for gynecological disease in China. A growing number of studies have shown that GFW is beneficial for patients with PD. However, the quality of evidence is limited, and there are few studies on the treatment of PD by GFW with specific TCM syndromes. Therefor we will conduct a randomized controlled trial to explore the efficacy and safety of GFW for PD patients with heat-burning blood-stasis syndrome.Methods and analysisThis study is designed as a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to the GFW group (patients receive GFW) and the control group (patients receive a matching placebo) in a 1:1 ratio. The participants will receive either GFW or placebo, twice daily for 3 menstrual cycles with a 3-month follow-up. The primary outcome is the pain intensity reduction measured by a Visual Analog Scale. The secondary outcomes is the Cox Menstrual Symptom Scale, the Self-rating Depression Scale, the Self-rating Anxiety Scale, the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey and the dysmenorrhea diarymenstrual pain.. All outcomes are assessed at baseline, and the 4th, 8th, and 12th week during the interventions, as well as at the 16th, 20th and 24th week follow-up. Any adverse events will be recorded throughout the study.DiscussionThis is the first double-blinded RCT to assess the effectiveness and safety of GFW in treating PD with the heat-burning blood-stasis syndrome. The scientific and rigorous methodology design of this trial will provide significant evidence regarding the use of GFW to treat PD in future.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry, ID: ChiCTR2000034118. Regisrered on 25 June 2020.
Third generation cognitive behavioural therapy versus treatment-as-usual for attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder: a randomized, 2-parallel-group, evaluator blinded, superiority trial
Authors: Crouzet Laetitia , Gramond Anne , Suehs Carey , Fabbro-Peray Pascale , Abbar Mocrane , Castroman Jorge Lopez
Published: April 2021

BackgroundThis study aims to compare improvements in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptom severity between a group of ADHD children and parents undergoing a new therapeutic program based on third generation cognitive-behavioural therapy (Hyper-mCBT) and a similar group undergoing treatment-as-usual with the Barkley program.Methods248 children diagnosed with ADHD will be randomly assigned to either a Hyper-mCBT program or a Barkley program. This is a randomized (1:1), 2 parallel-group, superiority trial with evaluator blinding and stratification according to center and methylphenidate treatment. Hyper-mCBT program consists in a series of 16 simultaneous-but-separate therapies sessions for parents and for children.DiscussionMore effective psychotherapeutic approaches are needed for ADHD children. Pharmacotherapy seems to be more effective in reducing ADHD symptoms but it is not always helpful, carries side effects and it is rejected by many parents/professionals. Results for psychotherapy programs for ADHD are inconsistent although several studies have shown clinical improvements. This trial will substantiate encouraging preliminary results of an innovative psychotherapy program for both parents and children.Trial registration: Sponsor Number: PHRC-N/2016/JLC-01RCB Identification: 2017-A01349-44 Clinicaltrials.gov registration: NCT03437772 (first posted: February 19, 2018)
Does Hypertensive Disorder and Obstetric Factors Associate with Still Birth Among Women Who Gave Birth in Selected Hospital of Southwestern, Ethiopia?
Authors: Melese  , Sisay
Published: April 2021

Background: The cause of stillbirth is often unknown, but can be attributable to various causes; hypertensive disorders and obstetric factors supposed to complicate pregnancy and may cost the life of the fetus. It is the series pregnancy problem not precisely known and only available few research findings are inconsistent & not well established.Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the association between Stillbirth and hypertensive disorder and obstetric factors.Methods: Facility based unmatched case-control study design was employed from January2018 to June2019, (287 cases and 574 controls) was selected using systematic random sampling methods. Double population proportions formula with 1:2 case to control ratio was used to calculate sample size with 95% confidence interval and 80% power. The data was collected from clinical records of mother’s a using data collecting checklist. Epi data version 4.4.2.1 was used for data entry, and analysis was done by SPSS version 21 statistical software. Descriptive analysis such as frequency, percentage and chi-square test were done. For the inferential analysis, a multivariable analysis was done. Statically significant was used at a p-value <0.05 both for the univarible and multivariable analysis.Result: Women who had hypertensive disorder were 1.76 times at risk to have stillbirth than no hypertensive disorder (AOR: 1.76: 95%CI :( 1.06, 2.9). In addition, women who had first antenatal care at third trimester were 4 times at higher risk to have still birth than women, who had first antenatal care at first trimesters (AOR: 4, 95%CI: (1.54, 11). Women who had more than four children were 2.6 times at higher risk of having still birth compared with women one child (AOR: 2.6, 95%CI: (1.2, 5.7). Furthermore, the odds of having still birth was found to be higher in women, who had blood group O than blood group A (AOR: 1.7: 95%CI: (1.057, 2.8).Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, we conclude that a hypertensive disorders and obstetric factors were risk factors for stillbirth. Therefore, it is significant to give special attention to women with hypertensive disorder and multipara women.
Monitored Exercise and Oxygen Therapy Improves Aerobic and Autonomic Function in Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection (PASC): A Case Series
Authors: Greenspan Noah , Mackles Marion , Hullstrung Greg , Chin Wai , Kaner Robert , DePalo Louis , Walsh-Messinger Julie
Published: April 2021

Case Description: Three females (ages 34, 38, and 38) who contracted COVID-19 in March or April 2020 were treated for post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) associated cardiopulmonary and autonomic dysfunction seven to eight months following acute-illness. Exercise tolerance was tested using the Bensen protocol, followed by 22 treatment sessions of graduated treadmill exercise combined with supplemental oxygen two or three times a week, after which the exercise tolerance test was repeated. All patients demonstrated improvement in autonomic function and heart rate response during exercise and demonstrated ~54% improvement in exercise tolerance. Dyspnea remitted or improved in all patients, as did other PASC symptoms, including cough, dyspnea, larynx inflammation, chest tightness, fatigue, and post-exertional malaise. Discussion: It appears that PASC is a multisystemic, inflammation-mediated condition, that affects the respiratory, cardiac, neurologic, gastrointestinal and autonomic nervous systems, with high variability in symptomatology and course, both between patients and within individuals. Patient safety should be maximized by conducting thorough cardiac, respiratory, neurologic and pre-rehabilitation evaluations to rule out potential complications related to activity and exercise. Clinical course and comprehensive monitoring of heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation should be evaluated before exercise time and intensity is increased, very conservatively.Summary: Due to the variable nature of PASC, it is crucial to individualize treatment protocols and to modify the protocol based on patient response; however, we show that gradual, monitored exercise combined with supplemental oxygen may improve lingering symptoms and autonomic function in some PASC patients.
Effect of nigella sativa oil sup plementation on kidney function tests, glycemic parameters, oxidative stress, inflammation, quality of life and depression status in diabetic hemodialysis patients; study protocol for a double-blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rahmani Alireza , Tarighat-Esfanjani Ali , Niknafs Bahram , Tavakoli-Rouzbehani Omid Mohammad , Maleki Vahid
Published: April 2021

Background and objectives: The kidney is probably the most crucial target of microvascular damage in diabetes, which can ultimately eventuate end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Hemodialysis is the most usual way of renal replacement therapy in ESRD. Patients receiving hemodialysis are susceptible to many complications like hyperglycemia, inflammation, depression, anxiety, and poor quality of life. So, they constrained to consume many drugs. Medicinal herbs are used in different cultures as a reliable source of natural remedies. This study aims to determine the efficacy of Nigella sativa (NS) oil supplementation on blood glucose, kidney function tests, inflammation, oxidative stress, quality of life, and depression in hemodialysis patients.Methods and analysis: This double-blind, randomized controlled trial will enroll 46 patients with diabetes mellitus who give hemodialysis thrice a week. Patients who have an inflammatory or infectious disease, and who receiving nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, will be excluded. Patients will be randomized to the treatment and control group, which will be recommended using two soft gel of NS and paraffin oil, respectively. Laboratory tests will be assessed at baseline and end of the study, including fasting blood sugar, glycated albumin, insulin, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, urea, uric acid, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, high sensitive C reactive protein, and 24-hour urine volume. Also, the kidney disease and quality of life and hospital anxiety and depression scale questionnaires will be evaluated.Ethics and dissemination: According to our knowledge no sever adverse effect have been reported. The protocol was found to be in accordance to the ethical principles and national norm standard for conducting medical research in Iran (IR.TBZMED.REC.1399.109). Both positive and negative findings will be reported.Trial registration: Iranian registry of clinical trials: IRCT20200411047027N1. Registered on 31 may 2020, https://fa.irct.ir/user/trial/48113/view
PRINCIPLES OF FORMATION OF THE GREEN INVESTMENT OF THE COUNTRY: THE ROLE AND IMPORTANCE FOR COMPETITIVENESS
Authors: Khomutenko L. , Kirilieva A.
Published: April 2021

The article deals with the basic principles of the formation and development of «green» investment in the country, which is a key element in creating a competitive environment. The purpose of the study is to analyze the principles of green country investment formation, to define the role and importance for development. It is determined that each country has its own peculiarities due to the level of development of the country, its geographical location, the availability of natural resources and the specifics of the concepts, models and development tools used, corresponding to national priorities and accumulated experience, and therefore the transition to a «green» economy for different countries will happen under different scenarios. It is revealed that the world community in general and Ukraine in particular need to look for new approaches to managing the economy and the environment, ensuring, on the one hand, their equilibrium and compatibility of development, and, on the other, ensuring, along with economic, water, energy and food security. of the state. within the international paradigm of sustainable development. The concept of «green» investment is quite new to national science and practice. It should be noted that, despite the use of the term «green» investment in the Western scientific literature, there is actually no understanding of the essential content of this category in domestic science. Therefore, a consistent and effective implementation of the principles of green investing, as well as green development in general, is only possible in a regulatory environment that is transparent and fair, developed in accordance with the rule of law, with independent judicial procedures, with the participation of independent market regulators, act in accordance with national interests, respecting the rights of investors and consumers. On the other hand, socially responsible business behavior plays a vital role in their implementation principles, one of the key indicators of which is the attitude of businesses to environmental issues, resource efficiency and energy efficiency, disclosure of socially significant non-financial information. For the effective transition to a «green» economy, effective policy frameworks must be established in the country to develop and implement strategies for developing a «green» economy based on a comprehensive and integrated approach, covering all spheres of public life and principles of their activity.
USING THE INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE OF CASHBACK INCENTIVES FOR E-COMMERCE IN UKRAINE
Authors: Pokhylko S. , Eremenko A.
Published: April 2021

A new stage in the history of cashback began with the development of the digital economy. Thanks to modern Internet access technologies via computers and smart phones, there has been a significant increase in e-commerce and m-commerce. The article is devoted to the study of the transformation of cashback and cashback services, the analysis of domestic and foreign cashback markets. Banking institutions have issued debit and credit cards with a cashback option, online stores have acquired cashback partners, buyers use an effective tool buying online. The impact of this tool on the e-commerce development is considered. The research pays attention to intermediary organizations as participants in the relationship between a bank and a client, an online-store and a buyer. The analysis of online stores websites' functioning, that use cashback and cashback services, is carried out. The analysis of the indicators showed a growing share of e-commerce development in Ukraine and an increase in purchases by Ukrainian customers on the Internet. The study identified the lack in popularity of cashebacks and cashback services use in Ukraine. The examination of the current state of the cashback market in Ukraine has established that the range of Ukrainian cashback services is not broad. The possibility of increasing the share of online stores, which offer cashback for buying online, in Ukraine would give an impetus to extend the number of these services. A good step in this direction is to escalate the percentage of cashback buying online, uncomplicated and straightforward procedure for withdrawing funds without restrictions from cashback cards. The absence of an annual maintenance fee of cashback cards also serves to attraction new customers to the cashback services and customers to online stores. The authors give their own vision of the efficiency of measures to popularize cashback like to use the cashback mechanism launching new programs and start-ups, including at the state level, to expand the circle of banks issuing credit casheback cards. All these would contribute substantially to the electronic commerce development in Ukraine in accordance with the current state of the global economy.
How to convert Millennial consumers to brand evangelists through social media micro-influencers
Authors: Pornsrimate Kanyawee , Khamwon Anon
Published: April 2021

Undoubtedly, in the modern age of digitalization, Millennials, who are considered digital natives, have become a massive target market for salespersons. Changes in the way Millennials think accompanied by an explosion of social media have led to an increased focus on social media influencer marketing in the company sector. To help establish a new marketing paradigm that accounts for these changes, this research aims to conceptualize and investigate the process of building consumer-brand relationships with Millennial consumers through social media micro-influencers. Findings based on structural equation modeling revealed that four core characteristics of social media micro-influencers (i.e., authenticity, the meaning of the influencer, specific content, and secret sharing) were a significant antecedent of brand engagement and brand love, which, in turn, mediated the pathway from social media micro-influencer characteristics to brand evangelism. Understanding what social media micro-influencers mean to Millennials offers the promise of improving brand evangelism through more precise market analysis and market strategy. In the discussion, the paper introduces a three-stage building method towards brand evangelism through social media micro-influencer, including: (1) the stage of selecting influencers; (2) the stage of constructing intense emotional responses to the brand (brand engagement and brand love); and ultimately (3) the stage of becoming a brand evangelist. Lastly, limitations and future directions were discussed.
A review between whole-cells and immobilized lipases technologies for biodiesel and flavor esters production
Authors: Sardagna Rodrigo , Lopes William , Allebrandt da Silva Ries Lúcia
Published: April 2021

As lipases são enzimas versáteis que catalisam diversas reações e podem ser aplicadas em várias áreas da indústria. No entanto, a biocatálise enfrenta um obstáculo econômico para poder competir com as rotas convencionais. Diferentes estratégias têm sido estudadas com o objetivo de reduzir o custo dos biocatalisadores e melhorar a atividade e estabilidade catalítica. A imobilização enzimática é uma das estratégias mais eficientes para tornar a aplicação de enzimas competitiva em larga escala industrial, proporcionando reutilização contínua, facilidade de separação do meio reacional e maior eficiência do processo. No entanto, apesar dos avanços tecnológicos alcançados, os biocatalisadores ainda são caros para usos industriais devido às etapas de recuperação, purificação e imobilização de enzimas. Nesse contexto, surge a tecnologia de células integras (CI) como uma forma de imobilização, na qual as próprias células, geralmente cultivadas em um suporte, são aplicadas no processo de biotransformação, contendo as proteínas de interesse aderidas à sua superfície, permitindo fácil separação, reutilização e dispensando a etapa de purificação. Embora a tecnologia de células inteiras tenha se tornado uma ferramenta valiosa para muitos processos de biotransformação, existem alguns inconvenientes inerentes, que impediram seu avanço em escala industrial, e muitos estudos foram realizados com o objetivo de otimizar seu desempenho. Este artigo apresenta uma revisão entre as tecnologias de células íntegras e de lipases imobilizadas, principalmente relacionadas às sínteses de biodiesel e de ésteres de sabor, uma vez que estas são amplamente relatadas na literatura.
Avaliação de desempenho ambiental (ISO 14031)
Authors: Da Silva Sartori junior Luiz , Vargas Kilca Ricardo
Published: April 2021

O objetivo deste estudo foi implantar a Avaliação de Desempenho Ambiental (ADA - ABNT NBR ISO 14031) em todos os setores (administrativo, comercial e serviços) de uma empresa de serviços de manutenção e venda de peças e máquinas agrícolas (Agroser Case IH) no município de São Borja/RS. Para a ADA foram utilizados seis indicadores de desempenho gerencial (IDG) e sete indicadores de desempenho operacional (IDO). A empresa apresentou duas iniciativas de programas ambientais (IDG1), uma não-conformidade com legislação municipal (IDG2) e nenhuma multa ambiental (IDG3). Quanto ao que se pode observar com o estudo, tem-se que o custo estimado com mau uso de materiais nos processos (IDG4) foi de R$ 4.550,00/ano; o retorno do investimento em programas ambientais (IDG5) estimado foi de R$ 32.850,00/ano; os principais resíduos sólidos recicláveis (IDO2) geraram um total estimado de 1.126,64 kg/ano; a quantidade de óleo usado foi de 950 L/ano e 652 kg/ano de materiais contaminados (IDO3); o consumo de água (IDO4) anual foi de 858 m³ (R$ 7.273,00/ano) e o consumo de energia elétrica pela prestadora de energia (IDO6) foi de 39.263 kWh/ano (R$ 32.400,00/ano); a conversão para energia fotovoltaica (IDO7) ocasionou uma redução de 77% em custos energéticos para a empresa; foram sugeridos três programas ambientais subdivididos em 14 ações ambientais. Por fim, a aplicação da ADA permitiu identificar gastos desnecessários e criar oportunidades e ações de sustentabilidade que venham a aumentar a eficiência e qualidade dos serviços e processos realizados na empresa.
Efeito do manejo da desfolha no desempenho agronômico da videira Chardonnay em região de elevada altitude de Santa Catarina
Authors: Würz Douglas André , De Souza Deivid Silva , Canossa Adrielen Tamiris , Reinehr Juliana , Rufato Leo
Published: April 2021

Teve-se como objetivo do trabalho comparar diferentes épocas de desfolha e o seu efeito nas características químicas e físicas dos cachos da variedade Chardonnay em região de elevada altitude de Santa Catarina. O presente estudo foi realizado nas safras 2018 e 2019, em um vinhedo comercial, situado no munícipio de São Joaquim – Santa Catarina.  Foi utilizado vinhedo da variedade Chardonnay enxertada sobre ‘Paulsen 1103’. Os tratamentos consistiram na realização da desfolha, expondo a região dos cachos em cinco diferentes estágios fenológicos: plena florada, baga chumbinho, baga ervilha, virada de cor e plantas sem desfolha (testemunha). Avaliou-se índices produtivos, arquitetura de cacho e maturação tecnológica. As variáveis foram submetidas à análise de variância (ANOVA) e quando detectados efeitos de tratamento, procedeu-se o teste de comparação de médias pelo Teste Scott Knott a 5% de probabilidade de erro. A realização do manejo da desfolha da videira ‘Chardonnay’ não influenciou variáveis relacionadas a arquitetura de cachos (massa de cacho, comprimento de cachos e número de bagas). No entanto, quando realizada após o estádio fenológico baga chumbinho propicia aumento do índice de compactação. Os resultados obtidos no presente trabalho demonstram que o manejo da desfolha aumentam os índices produtivos (produção por planta e produtividade) e melhora da maturação tecnológica da videira (sólidos solúveis), sendo recomendado sua realização até o estádio fenológico virada de cor.
SEGUINDO AS REDES DE BRUNO LATOUR: UM ENSAIO SOBRE A ANTROPOLOGIA SIMÉTRICA E A TEORIA DO ATOR-REDE
Authors: Milanês Renata
Published: April 2021

Este artigo faz parte de um esforço no sentido de compreender o pensamento de um dos autores mais importantes das Ciências Sociais na contemporaneidade: Bruno Latour. Com sua escrita hermética, abstrata, filosófica e por vezes, difícil de compreender, este autor nos oferece uma lente totalmente inovadora no modo de se pensar sobre a forma como o conhecimento científico é construído, nos lançando o seguinte questionamento: Por que as Ciências Sociais são tão antropocêntricas?

A tese proposta por Latour nos oferece uma visão, na qual as coisas e os não-humanos devem ser considerados nas análises científicas, pois também fazem parte do mundo social. Visando acabar com a oposição sujeito-objeto, ele propõe como saída, a tentativa de superar o abismo entre homens e coisas, seres humanos e não humanos, sociedade e natureza e entre ciências humanas e ciências naturais, através de um princípio de simetria, que busca explicar natureza e sociedade com igualdade de tratamento, dando importância aos híbridos e reconciliando a separação dicotômica entre sujeitos e objetos que por sua vez, passam a se apresentar à teoria social de uma maneira diferente e que sem dúvidas,  balança as bases da antropologia moderna.

Palavras-chave: Teoria do Ator-Rede. Antropologia Simétrica. Humanos e Não Humanos. Bruno Latour.
Association of Viruses in the Development of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Rauff Bisma , Malik Arif , Bhatti Yasir A. , Chudhary Shafiq A. , Fatima Kaneez , Rafiq Shafquat , Tahir Aisha , Sharif Sumaira , Qadri Ishtiaq
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), primarily inflammatory cardiomyopathy, are characterized by the infiltration
of inflammatory cells into the myocardium. It has a relatively high risk of deteriorating heart function
and has heterogeneous etiologies. Inflammatory cardiomyopathy is mainly mediated by viral infections but can
also be mediated by protozoa, fungal or bacterial infections. Besides that, there are a wide variety of drugs, toxic
substances, and systemic immune-mediated diseases that result in the development of cardiovascular diseases
(CVDs). Despite broad research, inflammatory cardiomyopathy has a poor prognosis. The roles of the pathogens,
host genomic counterparts and environmental triggers in the progression of disease are still under consideration,
including the role of some viruses as active inducers and others as bystanders. In this review article, we
review the available evidence on the types, pathogenesis and treatment of myocarditis, inflammatory cardiomyopathy,
and atherosclerosis with a particular focus on virus-associated cardiac diseases.
Cyclodextrin Based Nanosponges: A Multidimensional Drug Delivery System and its Biomedical Applications
Authors: Mane Preeti Tanaji , Wakure Balaji Sopanrao , Wakte Pravin Shridhar
Published: April 2021

:

Cyclodextrin based nanosponges are the designed nanocarriers for the projected delivery
of complex drugs. They are multifunctional hypercrosslinked cyclodextrin polymers connected in a
three-dimensional, mesh-like network. Their functional characteristics can be fabricated by using
different crosslinkers or their different rations with polymer. They can encapsulate various hydrophilic,
lipophilic, small-sized or large-sized drug molecules. They offer formulation flexibility
and are primarily used for solubility, bioavailability and stability enhancement purposes. This system
is also pliable for co-delivery of pharmaceutical entities, improving therapeutic efficacy and patient
compliance. If the surface of nanosponge is coupled with an appropriate ligand, even a target
specific drug delivery can be achieved. It has a variety of applications in the field of pharmacy for
the delivery of tricky drug molecules, proteins, enzymes, natural moieties and gaseous compounds.
The list of its applications further widens with the development of nanodiagnostics, nanosensors,
biomimetics and scaffolds based on nanosponges. The sudden explosion of research in this working
area signifies cyclodextrin nanosponge based products in the market soon.
Outcomes of Methadone Maintenance Therapy Combined with Rilpivirine/Efavirenz in Treatment-Naive HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Huang Shizhen , Yang Cuixian , Xin Jiaying , Xie Ronghui , Yang Xinping , Zhang Ruimin , Li Xia , Zhang Bo , Lei Suyun , Hong Lizhu , Dong Xingqi , Li Huiqin
Published: April 2021

Background:

Injecting drugs is associated with a high risk of HIV infection, alongside
the risk of a drug overdose and mental health problems.

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) combined with
rilpivirine (RPV)-based regimens on drug use of HIV individuals.

Methods:

This study was a prospective, open-label, controlled, drug-drug interaction trial at a single
center for 24 weeks. Participants on stable MMT were randomly divided into two groups administered
RPV/TDF/3TC (RPV group) and EFV/TDF/3TC (EFV group), respectively. Adjustment
doses of methadone were monitored for 12 weeks. HIV-1 RNA was used to evaluate the effects of
antiretroviral therapy at week 24. Acute opioid withdrawal-, drug craving questionnaire- and MOSHIV
scales were used to assess study outcomes.

Results:

22 and 18 cases of HIV-infected drug users were recruited in the RPV and EFV groups, respectively. Thirty-one cases had completed monitoring and clinical evaluation at week 24. In the RPV and EFV groups, 32% and 56% of the participants had methadone dose adjustment, respectively, indicating a significantly lower rate in the RPV group. The rates of individuals with HIV RNA levels from 50-500 copies/ml were 94% (RPV group) and 90% (EFV group). The drug craving questionnaire scale scores decreased in both groups. After one week of treatments, acute opioid withdrawal scale scores increased in both groups, with no significant difference between them.

Conclusion:

Concomitant administration of RPV does not significantly affect methadone and
could decrease withdrawal symptoms. An RPV-based regimen may be used as first-line treatment
in IDUs with HIV infection.
Assessment Relation of Myocardial Detector Counts and Administered Activity
of 99mTc-SestaMIBI in MPI: The Effects of Body Weight, BMI, and
Gender
Authors: Tajik-Mansoury Mohammad Ali , Mazinani Mahdi , Sabour Mahsa , Jadidi Majid , Peer- Firozjaei Milad , Asadian Nader
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

In myocardial perfusion imaging, reducing the number of photons in images
of obese patients causes poor image quality. To solve this problem, we need to inject the tracer
according to the patients' weight. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between
myocardial photon counts with patients' weight, BMI, and gender.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 129 patients underwent myocardial perfusion imaging in a twoday
stress-first protocol, but only rest images were included in this study. Multiplication factor
was used to determine the amount of
radiopharmaceutical activity injected into the patients. For evaluating the effect of gender, the photon
counts of 22 female patients were also assessed when the breast tissue was pulled upward
(Breast Up). The total myocardial detector counts in the raw images were calculated from the summation
of 32 projections. A multiple linear regression test was used to simultaneously examine the
effects of weight, BMI, and gender on photon counts.

Results:

There was no significant relationship between photon counts and patients' weight
(p=0.129) and BMI (0.406), but gender had significant effects on photon counts, and myocardial
detector counts were found to be higher in males (p=0.00). There was a statistically significant difference
between the images of Breast Up and Non-Breast Up, and myocardial detector counts were
higher in the Breast Up imaging method (p=0.00).

Conclusion:

Using the bodyweight formula, the image quality was comparable in obese and lean
patients, but myocardial detector counts were lower in females, and this formula needs to be adjusted
according to the patient's gender.
Exercise-Induced MicroRNA Regulation in the Mice Nervous System is Maintained After Activity Cessation
Authors: Carvalho Andrea , Zanon Sonia , Lucas Guilherme
Published: April 2021

Background:

Physical exercise can improve synaptic function and protect the nervous
system against many diseases by altering gene regulation. MicroRNAs (miRs) have emerged as vital
regulators of gene expression and protein synthesis not only in the muscular system, but also in
the brain.

Objective:

Here we investigated whether exercise-induced miRs expression in the nervous and muscular
systems is activity-dependent or it remains regulated even after exercise cessation.

Methods:

The expression profile of miR-1, -16, and -206 was monitored by RT-PCR in the dorsal
root ganglion, in the spinal cord dorsal and ventral horn, and in the soleus muscle of mice after 5
weeks of swimming training and after swimming exercise followed by 4 weeks of sedentary conditions.
Control animals consisted of mice that swan daily for 30s during the 5-weeks training period,
returning to the non-swimming activity for additional 4 weeks.

Results:

After exercise, miR-1 was upregulated in all tissues investigated. However, the upregulation
of miR-1 continued significantly high in both aspects of the spinal cord and in the soleus muscle.
The expression profiles of miR-16, and -206 were increased only in the nervous system. However,
miR-16 upregulation persisted in the DRG and in the spinal cord after exercise interruption,
whereas miR-206 continued upregulated only in the spinal cord ventral horn.

Conclusion:

Exercise training can cause long-lasting changes in the expression of miRs independently
of exercise maintenance. Spatial and temporal expression of miRs is to some extent dependent
on this activity. The data raised a new conceptual hypothesis on the biogenesis of miRs, indicating
that long-lasting and systematic exercise can potentially cause irreversible miR regulation after
activity cessation.