bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of FOLFIRINOX, Gemcitabine Plus Nab-Paclitaxel, and Chemoradiotherapy as First-Line Treatments for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Nakano Shintaro , Komatsu Yoshito , Kawamoto Yasuyuki , Saito Rika , Ito Ken , Nakatsumi Hiroshi , Harada Kazuaki , Yuki Satoshi , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: March 2021

Background: Currently, it is unclear whether chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is the optimal first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In this study, we compared the efficacy and safety of FOLFIRINOX (FFX), gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GnP), and CRT as first-line treatments for locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Methods: We evaluated patients receiving FFX, GnP, or CRT, and assessed treatment efficacy in terms of overall survival and progression-free survival. Safety was evaluated using the Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.0). Results: Fifty-five patients were included in the analysis (10 for FFX, 25 for GnP, and 20 for CRT). The median overall survival was 7.1, 16.9, and 20.0 months in the FFX, GnP, and CRT groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in overall survival between the FFX and GnP groups (HR: 0.503, 95% CI: 0.205–1.238, p = 0.135), FFX and CRT groups (HR: 0.518, 95% CI: 0.213–1.256, p = 0.136), or GnP and CRT groups (HR: 0.993, 95% CI: 0.451–2.188, p = 0.987). The 1-year survival rates were 40%, 64%, and 60%, whereas the 2-year survival rates were 0%, 16%, and 35% in the FFX, GnP, and CRT groups, respectively. Conclusions: Both chemotherapy and CRT were effective and well tolerated. Thus, the combination of intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be a beneficial treatment strategy.
Telling Apart the Bad from the Good Guys Behind the Spraying Mist
Authors: Benzing Albrecht , Piepho Hans-Peter , Malik Waqas Ahmed , Finckh Maria R. , Mittelhammer Manuel , Strempel Dominic , Jaschik Johannes , Neuendorff Jochen , Guamán Liliana , Mancheno José , Melo Luis , Pavón Omar , Cangahuamín Roberto , Ullauri Juan-Carlos
Published: March 2021

Residues of pesticides not allowed in organic farming are often found in organic food. A large number of samples are being tested by organic certifiers, but the sampling methods often do not allow to determine if such residues stem from prohibited pesticide use by organic farmers, from mixing organic with conventional products, from short-range spray-drift from neighbour farms, from the ubiquitous presence of such substances due to long-distance drift, or from other sources of contamination. Eight case studies from different crops and countries are used to demonstrate that sampling at different distances from possible sources of short distance drift allows in most cases to differentiate deliberate pesticide application by the organic farmer from drift. Datasets from 67 banana farms in Ecuador, where aerial fungicide spraying leads to a heavy drift problem, were subjected to statistical analysis. A linear discriminant function including four variables was identified for distinguishing under these conditions application from drift, with an accuracy of 93.3%.
Complex Structure of PDE3A–SLFN12 and Structure-based Molecular Glue Design for Apoptosis of Tumor Cells
Authors: Chen Jie , Liu Nan , Li Dianrong , Wang Yuanxun , Sun Yuxing , Wu Qingcui , Huang Yinpin , Wang Hong-Wei , Huang Niu , Qi Xiangbing , Wang Xiaodong
Published: March 2021

Molecular glue is a class of small molecular drugs that mediate the protein-protein interactions. It can induce target proteins degradation or stabilization. Anagrelide, as a known phosphodiesterase 3A (PDE3A) inhibitor, is a drug used for the treatment of essential thrombocytosis. Here, we report Anagrelide induces cell death directly binding to PDE3A, which stabilizes protein Schlafen 12 (SLFN12). The high-resolution cryo-EM maps indicates that the interaction of PDE3A and SLFN12 exhibits a butterfly-like shape, to form a heterotetramer. Structure analysis showed that Anagrelide, as a new molecular glue, packs in a shallow pocket of PDE3A in the catalytic domain and the resulting modified interface binds SLFN12 through the short helix (E552-I558) of SLFN12. Based on the structure, we designed and synthesized the Anagrelide analogues with hydrophobic substitutes at 7-position. The p-tolyl substitution (compound A6) had the best improvement of around 20 folds, which IC50 is around 0.3 nM. Our studies revealed a new strategy to identify and develop a new molecular glue for targeted protein stabilization.
Empirical Examination of the Relationship Between Venture Capital Financing and the Profitability of the Portfolio Companies in Uganda
Authors: Kato Ahmed Idi , Germinah Chiloane-Phetla E
Published: March 2021

PurposeThis paper empirically examined the relationship between Venture capital Financing and the profitability of portfolio companies in Uganda. Several empirical works paint an intriguing picture that VC financing is a reality in fostering economic growth of the early-stage enterprisesDesign/methodology/approachThe paper embraced a mixed-method wherein quantitative data were collected from 68 key VC stakeholders and statistical data was analysed using a multiple regression model by generating the results from the SPSS. This was supplemented by 16 semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Qualitative data were transcribed and analysed using Altas-ti.Findings The key findings from this study suggest superior performance of VC-financed enterprises following VC financing when compared to non-VC financed enterprises. The VC-financed enterprises realised tremendous growth in terms of: Return on Equity - 42.3%; profitability - 30% - 50%; Return on Assets - 44.5%. In addition, 63% of the respondents confirmed a positive impact of government regulatory policy in enhancing the development of the early-stage firms. The higher the percentage of growth the better for the growth of the company. Research limitations/implicationsThis study may assist the policymakers and business fraternity to develop policy frameworks tailored to enhancing a vibrant venture capital market in Uganda. Contribution/value-addThis study makes a vital contribution to knowledge by offering a diversified framework for enterprise success, to benefit the VC stakeholders in customizing funding programs that can propel the early-stage enterprise success in Uganda and similar emerging economies.
Treadmill Running Induces Remodeling of the Infrapatellar Fat Pad in an Intensity-dependent Manner
Authors: Zeng Ni , Liao Tao , Chen Xin-yuan , Yan Zhi-peng , Li Jie-ting , Ni Guo-xin
Published: March 2021

Objective: To investigate the response of the infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) to running at different intensities and further explore the underlying mechanisms of these responses under different running-induced loadings.Methods: Animals were randomly assigned into the sedentary (SED), low-intensity running (LIR), medium-intensity running (MIR), and high-intensity running (HIR) groups. Rats in the LIR, MIR, and HIR groups were subjected to an 8 week treadmill running protocol. In each group, the IFP was examined at the baseline and the 8th week to perform histomorphology, immunohistochemistry, and mRNA expression analyses.Results: Compared with LIR and MIR, HIR for 8 weeks led to a considerable increase in the surface cellularity (1.67±1.15), fibrosis (1.29±0.36), and vascularity (33.31±8.43) of the IFP but did not increase IFP inflammation or M1 macrophage polarization. Compared with the SED group, low-to-medium running resulted in unchanged or decreased fibrosis, vascularity, and surface cellularity in the IFP. Furthermore, serum leptin and visfatin levels were significantly lower in the LIR and MIR groups than in the SED group or HIR group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The effect of running on IFP remodeling was intensity dependent. Contrary to LIR and MIR, HIR increased the fibrosis and vascularity of the IFP. The HIR-induced IFP fibrosis was probably due to mechanical stress, rather than pathologic proinflammatory M1/M2 polarization.
Appropriateness for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination for Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeons in case of Pregnancy, Breastfeeding or Childbearing potential: YO-IFOS and CEORL-HNS joint clinical consensus statement
Authors: saibene alberto maria , Allevi Fabiana , Ayad Tareck , Baudoin Tomislav , Bernal-Sprekelsen Manuel , Briganti Giovanni , Carrie Sean , Cayé-Thomasen Per , Saidi Sara Dahman , Dauby Nicolas , Fenton John , Golusiński Wojciech , Klimek Ludger , Leclerc Andrée-Anne , Longtin Yves , Mannelli Giuditta , Mayo-Yáñez Miguel , Meço Cem , Metwaly Osama , Mouawad François , Niemczyk Kazimierz , Pedersen Ulrik , Piersiala Krzysztof , Plzak Jan , Remacle Marc , Rommel Nathalie , Saleh Hesham , Szpecht Dawid , Tedla Miro , Tincati Camilla , Tucciarone Manuel , Zelenik Karol , Lechien Jerome R.
Published: March 2021

Purpose: SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are a key step in fighting the pandemic. Nevertheless, their rapid development did not allow for testing among specific population subgroups such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, or elaborating specific guidelines for healthcare personnel working in high infection risk specialties, such as otolaryngology (ORL). This clinical consensus statement (CCS) aims to offer guidance for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination to this high-risk population based on the best evidence available.Methods: A multidisciplinary international panel of 33 specialists judged statements through a 2-rounds modified Delphi method survey. Statements were designed to encompass the following topics: risk of SARS-Cov-2 infection and use of protective equipment in ORL; SARS-Cov-2 infection and vaccines and respective risks for the mother/child dyad; and counseling for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pregnant, breastfeeding, or fertile healthcare workers (PBFHW). All ORL PBFHW were considered as the target audience.Results: Of the 13 statements, 7 reached consensus or strong consensus, 2 reached noConsensus and 2 reached near-consensus. According to the statements with strong consensus Otorhinolaryngologists – Head & Neck Surgeons who are pregnant, breastfeeding or with childbearing potential should have the opportunity to receive SARS-Cov-2 vaccination. Moreover, personal protective equipment (PPE) should still be used even after the vaccination.Conclusion: Until prospective evaluations on these topics are available, ORL-HNS must be considered a high infection risk specialty. While the use of PPE remains pivotal, ORL PBFHW should be allowed access to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination provided they receive up-to-date information.
Effect of RBD mutations in spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 on neutralizing IgG affinity
Authors: Hayashi Takuma , Yaegashi Nobuo , Konishi Ikuo
Published: March 2021

Background: Certain mutant strains of SARS-CoV-2 are known to spread widely among humans, including the receptor binding domain (RBD) mutant, Y453F, from farmed minks, and the RBD mutant, N501Y, a mutation common to three major SARS-CoV-2 subspecies (B.1.1.7, B.1.351, and B.1.1.248). Methods: We investigated the characteristics of the RBD mutants, Y453F and N501Y, using three-dimensional structural analysis. We also investigated the effect of Y453F and N501Y on neutralizing antibodies in serum derived from COVID-19-positive patients. Results: Our results suggest that SARS-CoV-2 subspecies with the RBD mutations Y453F or N501Y partially escaped detection by 4 neutralizing monoclonal antibodies and 21 neutralizing antibodies in serums derived from COVID-19-positive patients.Conclusions: Infection with SARS-CoV-2 subspecies that cause serious symptoms in humans may spread globally.
Optimization of lapping process parameters of CP-Ti based on PSO with mutation and BPNN
Authors: Ye Kaiqiang , Wang Jianbin , Gao Hong , Yang Liu , Xiao Ping
Published: March 2021

This work aims to improve the surface quality of commercially pure titanium (CP-Ti) with free alumina lapping fluid and establish the relationship between the main process parameters of lapping and roughness. On this basis, the optimal process parameters were searched by performing particle swarm optimization with mutation. First, free alumina lapping fluid was used to perform an L9(33) orthogonal experiment on CP-Ti to acquire data samples to train the neural network. At the same time, a BP neural network was created to fit the nonlinear functional relation among the lapping pressure P, spindle speed n, slurry flow Q and roughness Ra. Then, the range of the node numbers in the hidden layer of the neural network was determined by empirical formulas and the Kolmogorov theorem. On this basis, particle swarm optimization with mutation was used to search for the optimal process parameter configurations for lapping CP-Ti. The optimal process parameter configurations were used in the neural network to calculate the prediction value. Finally, the accuracy of the prediction was verified experimentally. The optimum process parameter configurations found by particle swarm optimization were as follows: the lapping pressure was 5 kPa, spindle speed was 60 r·min− 1 and slurry flow was 50 ml·min− 1. Then, the configurations were applied to a neural network to simulate prediction: the roughness was 0.1127 µm. The roughness obtained by experiments was 0.1134 µm. The error was 0.62%, which indicates that the well-trained neural network can achieve a good prediction when experimental data are missing. Applying the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm with mutation to a neural network will obtain the optimal process parameter configurations, which can effectively improve the surface quality of CP-Ti lapped with free abrasive.
Copenhagen Index versus ROMA in the preoperative ovarian malignancy risk stratification: result from the first Vietnamese prospective cohort study
Authors: Tran Doan Tu , Vo Van Khoa , Le Minh Tam , Chuang Linus , Nguyen Vu Quoc Huy
Published: March 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performances of the Copenhagen Index (CPH-I) and Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA) in the preoperative prediction of ovarian cancer.Methods: In a prospective cohort study, data were collected from 475 patients with ovarian masses who were hospitalized at the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue Central Hospital and Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Vietnam, between January 2018 and June 2020. ROMA and CPH-I were included for the women who had measurements of serum carbohydrate antigen (CA-125) and human epididymis protein (HE4). Matching these values to postoperative histopathology resulted in the preoperative prediction values. The final diagnosis was based on clinical features, histologic and radiologic findings, and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2014 stages of ovarian cancer were recorded.Results: Among the 475 women, 408 had benign tumors, 5 had borderline tumors and 62 had malignant tumors. The two indices showed similar discriminatory performances with no significant differences (p > 0.05). At an optimal cut-off, the sensitivities/specificities of ROMA and CPH-I for ovarian cancer diagnosis were 76.1% and 87.0%, 83.6% and 78.7%, respectively. The optimal cut-off for CPH-I was 1.89%. The areas under the ROC curves (AUCs) of ROMA and CPH-I were 0.860 (95% CI: 0.825 – 0.890) and 0.868 (95% CI: 0.833 – 0.896), respectively.Conclusions: The introduction of the Copenhagen Index to help stratify the malignancy risk of ovarian tumors, irrespective of menopausal status, might be applied as a simple alternative with a similar efficacy to ROMA in clinical practice.
Synoptic situations in Africa south of the equator linked to wet events in Namibia; a case study with the February 2008 flood episode
Authors: Ibebuchi Chibuike Chiedozie
Published: March 2021

Namibia is one of the water stressed regions in sub-Saharan Africa, with an erratic rainfall pattern. This study investigates synoptic situations that can be favorable for wet events in Namibia. Obliquely rotated principal component analysis applied to the T-mode matrix (variable is time series and observation is grid points) of sea level pressure data set from NCEP-NCAR was used to characterize the modes of large-scale atmospheric circulation variability in Africa south of the equator, in the form of circulation types (CTs). 18 CTs were classified and the linkage of the CTs to wet events in Namibia showed that during austral summer and early austral autumn when sea surface temperature (SST) is warm at the southwest Indian ocean and continental heating is active on the southern African landmasses, stronger (weaker) anticyclonic circulation at the South Indian Ocean high-pressure (South Atlantic Ocean high-pressure) can be associated with enhanced low-level moisture advection by southeast (southwest) winds to Namibia, resulting in wet events in most regions in Namibia. Also, enhanced moisture uptake in the Mozambique Channel might compensate for a relatively weaker moisture advection rate by the South Indian Ocean high-pressure, so that enhanced rainfall can still be expected in Namibia under this scenario. During the early February 2008 flood episode in parts of Namibia, enhanced moisture uptake in the Mozambique Channel coupled with strong southeast winds advecting abundant moisture to Namibia was found to have contributed to the flood.
Artificial Intelligence-driven drug repurposing and structural biology for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Prasad Kartikay , Kumar Vijay
Published: March 2021

It has been said that COVID-19 is a generational challenge in many ways. But, at the same time, it becomes a catalyst for collective action, innovation, and discovery. Realizing the full potential of artificial intelligence (AI) for structure determination of unknown proteins and drug discovery are some of these innovations. Potential applications of AI include predicting the structure of the infectious proteins, identifying drugs that may be effective in targeting these proteins, and proposing new chemical compounds for further testing as potential drugs. AI and machine learning (ML) allow for rapid drug development including repurposing existing drugs. Algorithms were used to search for novel or approved antiviral drugs capable of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2. This paper presents a survey of AI and ML methods being used in various biochemistry of SARS-CoV-2, from structure to drug development, in the fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. It is envisioned that this study will provide AI/ML researchers and the wider community an overview of the current status of AI applications particularly in structural biology, drug repurposing and development and motivate researchers in harnessing AI potentials in the fight against COVID-19.
Modeling of the Meteorological Balloon-Cube with LoRa-Based Ground Station
Authors: Rastinasab V. , Weidong H.
Published: March 2021

Every day 80,000 weather balloons are launched to the Earth’s upper atmosphere with meteorology payloads to provide accurate meteorological data. Meteorological data could be used for airport stations and weather stations. Meanwhile, there are many remote sensing satellites above the Earth’s atmosphere, but balloons are still essential due to increased weather prediction accuracy. Many balloons launch into the atmosphere daily, but it would be a one trip tripe because this balloon goes to the atmosphere then transmits the meteorological data to the ground segment, and that is all no one looks to recycle it, on the other hand, if the balloon could be recycled there would be many financial benefits. This project presents a high altitude meteorological balloon-Cube relative to measuring atmosphere humidity, temperature, air pressure, and a photography payload for surface imaging that ascended up to 20Km altitude Cube reach this altitude will eject box on the ground. The telemetry data are transmitted to the ground station through two communication applications, first using a LoRa based transceiver at which it receives a command from the LoRa ground station and the second one, and payload transmits the data by an SMS in 5min after it lands on the ground. Therefore, it could be recycled. This paper presents a Cube-Balloon fabrication and flight test information to acknowledge this Cube’s feasibility for real meteorological projects.
Effects of Metal Particles on Cold Spray Deposition onto Ti-6Al-4V Alloy via Abaqus/Explicit
Authors: W. J. W. J.
Published: March 2021

Titanium alloy is the main structural material of the aerospace system component. About 75 % of titanium and titanium alloys in the world are used in the aerospace industry. Hence, it is of great significance to study the surface deposition characteristics by cold spraying technology, taking Ti-6Al-4V alloy as an example, smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method in Abaqus/Explicit was used to spray aluminum, Ti-6Al-4V, copper, tungsten alloy (W alloy) and titanium particles onto Ti-6Al-4V substrate. The simulation results show that the deposition effect is good over 600 m/s, and higher energy is obtained for Ti-6Al-4V particles with the same properties as the matrix. For aluminum, Ti-6Al-4V, copper, W alloy, and titanium particles with different properties, under the same initial speed condition, the greater the density of the material, the deeper the foundation pit. W Alloy has the largest initial kinetic energy, the deepest foundation pit, and better surface bonding performance. The aluminum particle has the smallest initial kinetic energy, the shallowest foundation pit. However, the deposition effect of multiple aluminum particles has not improved. The collision process’s kinetic energy is transformed into internal energy, frictional dissipation, and viscous dissipation. Besides, the internal energy is mainly plastic dissipation and strain energy. Therefore, it is recommended to use Ti-6Al-4V, copper, nickel, W alloy, and titanium particles for different occasions, such as Ti-6Al-4V substrate surface restorative and protective coatings. Pure aluminum particles are not recommended.
Schur sector of Argyres-Douglas theory and $W$-algebra
Authors: Xie Dan , Yan Wenbin
Published: March 2021

We study the Schur index, the Zhu’s C_2C2
algebra, and the Macdonald index of a four dimensional
\mathcal{N}=2𝒩=2
Argyres-Douglas (AD) theories from the structure of the associated two
dimensional WW-algebra.
The Schur index is derived from the vacuum character of the
corresponding WW-algebra
and can be rewritten in a very simple form, which can be easily used to
verify properties like level-rank dualities, collapsing levels, and
S-duality conjectures. The Zhu’s C_2C2
algebra can be regarded as a ring associated with the Schur sector, and
a surprising connection between certain Zhu’s
C_2C2
algebra and the Jacobi algebra of a hypersurface singularity is
discovered. Finally, the Macdonald index is computed from the Kazhdan
filtration of the WW-algebra.
Design, Synthesis and Antitubercular Activity of 2-(Benzylthio)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles
Authors: Rambo Raoní , Waldow Etienne , Abaddi Bruno , Silveira Maiele , Dadda Adilio , Sperotto Nathalia , Bizarro Cristiano , Basso Luiz Augusto , Machado Pablo
Published: March 2021

Using molecular simplification and molecular hybridization approaches, a series of 2-(benzylthio)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles was synthesized and evaluated as in vitro inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) growth. Compounds 6p and 6z were considered the lead compounds from this series of molecules, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 6.9 and 3.8 μM against M. tuberculosis H37Rv, respectively. Additionally, the leading compounds were active against multidrug-resistant strains and were devoid of apparent toxicity to Vero and HepG2 cells, from 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and neutral red assays. Finally, the compounds presented good aqueous solubility and high plasma stability. These data together indicate that this class of molecules may furnish new anti-tuberculosis drug candidates for future development.
Energy-water nexus in East Iraq: capacity potential analysis and spatial assessment for an integrated CSP solar power & RO brackish water desalination plant in Khanaqin area
Authors: Issa Hayder Mohammed
Published: March 2021

In this research, an analysis of site suitability and potential desalination capacity for an integrated concentrated solar power (CSP) and reverse osmosis (RO) system can be established to overcome water-energy nexus problems such as water supply shortage, fossil fuel carbon emission, and increasing power consumption in Khanaqin area, East Iraq. Regarding various environmental and economic criteria, the analysis employed different methods and tools: analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method, additive weighting method for location selection (SL), and kriging interpolation with map algebra spatial analysis tools in ArcGIS software. The chosen criteria were assessed by using the rating method, and then the relative weight of each criterion was determined. Site suitability assessment results showed that only 0.05% of the study area, represented by thirteen sites, was highly suitable for the integrated CSP-RO system. Considering higher potential desalination capacity of the integrated CSP-RO system, the number of suitable sites was further refined, therefore only two plant sites were suggested for optimum desalination capacity. The current study helps to quantify factors related to establishing and operating combined CSP and RO plant, which aid for further insight investigations on solar and water resources availability of similar systems for different areas around the world.
Risk and benefit analysis of multifunctional reservoir staged operating
Authors: Mo Chongxun , Wu Yifan , Ruan Yuli , Zhao Shutan , Jin Juliang
Published: March 2021

An optimal flood-limiting water level (FLWL) is needed to solve the contradiction between flood control safety measures and utilizable benefits. Therefore, this paper took the Chengbi River reservoir as an example, applied the Monte Carlo stochastic simulation and water consumption rate per unit of electrical energy methods to calculate the flood control risks and benefits associated with raising the FLWL in stages, and used the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to select the optimal FLWL for each stage of the flood season, which provided a scientific basis for the effective use of rainfall and flood data in the reservoir. The major outcomes of the study are as follows. (1) The reservoir flood season can be divided into a preflood season (April to May), a main flood season (June to August), and a later flood season (September to October). (2) The flood risks and power generation benefits of the reservoir are calculated after raising the FLWL, the optimal FLWL for the main flood season is 185.5 m, and the optimal FLWL for the later flood season is 187.50 m, while the FLWL in the preflood season should be kept at 185.0 m. The above results can provide scientific support for flood control safety planning and the optimal operation of reservoirs.
Effective adsorption of Direct Red 23 by sludge biochar-based adsorbent: adsorption kinetics, thermodynamics and mechanisms study
Authors: Jiang Ruqing , Yu Guangwei , Ndagijimana Pamphile , Wang Yu , You Futian , Xing Zhenjiao , Wang Yin
Published: March 2021

Using solid adsorbents, such as biochar, has been a potential practice to remove the pollutants from water bodies to render the water safer for potential usage. A potential application of sludge biochar-based adsorbent (SBA), obtained by pyrolysis with hydrothermal treatment, was developed to adsorb Direct Red 23 (DR23) from wastewater. The results showed that for the synthesized SBA (0.5 g/L) in the adsorption of DR23 at low concentration (<20 mg/L), the DR23 was totally removed from the aqueous solution. pH had a limited effect on the adsorption, while an increase in temperature was shown to have a large enhancing effect. The adsorption kinetics were best fitted by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, while the equilibrium data were best fitted by the Langmuir isotherm. A maximum saturation adsorption capacity of SBA of 111.98 mg/g was achieved. SBA could then be regenerated by pyrolysis, and after three cycles, SBA still retained good adsorption ability for DR23, a removal rate exceeding 97% was achieved. Functional groups, pores, π-π bond, and electrostatic interactions are the key to the adsorption mechanisms. The results proved that SBA would be a promising material in the application of removing dyes in printing and dyeing wastewater.
The End of Source Theories? The Genealogies in Gen 4:17–5:32 and Their Reworking in the New Testament
Authors: Adamczewski Bartosz
Published: March 2021

A thorough analysis of the genealogies in Gen 4:17–5:32 has shown that they are the result of a highly creative (hypertextual) and at the same time strictly sequential reworking of an older text of Deut 2:9–23. This means that the theories postulating the genealogies in Gen 4:17–5:32 as having come from various hypothetical sources of the Pentateuch (J, P, etc.) are no longer necessary to explain their origin and function. Similarly, detailed analysis of the genealogies presented in Luke 3:23–38 and Matt 1:1–‍17 has demonstrated that the Matthean genealogy is the effect of a deliberate reworking of the earlier genealogy composed by Luke. That, in turn, means that the theory of the “Q source,” intended to serve as an explanation of the origin of the Matthean–Lucan materials that had not come from the Gospel of Mark, is also exegetically superfluous.
The Books of Chronicles and Ezra-Nehemiah as a Project of New Future for Israel
Authors: Chrostowski Waldemar
Published: March 2021

1–2 Chronicles and Ezra-Nehemiah express a different approach to the future of Israel to that provided in the Earlier Prophets. Firstly, the nature and the dating of this part of the Hebrew Bible are discussed, suggesting the end of the fifth and the very beginning of the fourth century B.C. as the time of its origins. Secondly, the retrospect of the past in 1–2 Chronicles is presented with a very specific attitude towards the Exile. The article focuses on the detailed analysis of Ezra 4:1–5, a passage representing the very core of this book. Against the backdrop of the identity of the deputation visiting Jerusalem as seen by the author of Ezra and the completely different self-presentation of the envoys from the north, the serious conflict that ensues is described. It bears analogies with the former antagonisms and tensions between the kingdom of Judah and the kingdom of Israel. On the basis of this conflict, a new reality emerges, namely Judaism. The religion of the preexilic Israel was profoundly transformed, having been exclusively limited to those Judeans who had come back from the Exile. As a result of this separation, the question of the “true Israel” became more crucial, setting new direction for the project of the national and religious identity of biblical Israel.
Exegesis of the Book of Isaiah 61:1–11: Redaction Criticism and Inquiry into the Identity of the Prophet Known as Trito-Isaiah
Authors: Slawik Jakub
Published: March 2021

The exegesis of Isa 61 demonstrated that the chapter is a separate composition, which comprises a framing device in vv. 1–3.10.11, and a middle section in vv. 4–9. This section did not have to originate as a single fragment. From the literary-critical standpoint, the suspect element is v. 3aa, which currently serves to connect Isa 61 with the adjacent chapters 60, and 62. However, it is best to interpret the pericope as a single whole, with the speaker being the prophetic “I,” stylised after the servant-prophet from the Deutero-Isaiah’s Songs of the Servant of the Lord. Behind this “I,” there are probably the tradents of Deutero-Isaiah’s traditions, updating his promises and adding new ones. In that case, the prophet Trito-Isaiah, who was to be reminiscent of the earlier prophets, speaking before the people, never existed. That, however, does not alter the fact that the tradents did consider themselves to be the servant of the Lord, and regarded their mission to be a prophetic one.
The Book of Nahum and the Book of Jonah: Debate Within the Twelve Prophets?
Authors: Strzałkowska Barbara
Published: March 2021

Since antiquity, the issue of the inconsistency between the Book of Nahum and the Book of Jonah has been addressed, one regarding both its content and its message. At various times, it was settled in different ways. The current state of biblical research seems to allow us to put forth a daring thesis that both Books have more in common than merely Nineveh as the subject matter, which they approach from a different angle. There seem to be grounds to see these two Books as vestiges of an intracanonical debate waged within the Book of the Twelve.
“The Way of the Heart” in the Experience and Reflection of St. Augustine
Authors: Mejzner Mirosław
Published: March 2021

In the writings of St. Augustine, the Latin word cor occurs more than 8,000 times, being one of the most important, though ambiguous, terms of his anthropology and spirituality. As a synonym for the inner man (homo interior) it encompasses the whole affective, intellectual, moral and religious life. In this sense, it is the privileged place for a personal encounter with God. The analysis of Augustine’s writings reveals a link between the concept of the Trinity and indications concerning the spiritual life of man. Reflections on the “heart” can be put into a kind of triptych: creation “in the image of God,” illumination by Christ, and dilatation by the Holy Spirit. The impact of God on the human heart should find its completion in a voluntarily adopted attitude of adoration, humility and love.
The Teaching of the Church on Religious Freedom: A Break or Continuity of Tradition?
Authors: Chaberek Michał
Published: March 2021

This paper elaborates upon the Catholic Church’s teaching on religious freedom in the period from The French Revolution to The Second Vatican Council. Based on quotations from the original documents, the author presents the evolution of the Church’s position that switched from the initial rejection to the final acceptance of the religious freedom over past two centuries. The fact of this dramatic change begs the question about the continuity of tradition and credibility of the contemporary position of the Church. Based on the document by the International Theological Commission, “Memory and Reconciliation: The Church and the Faults of the Past,” as well as the teaching of Pope Benedict XVI, the author demonstrates that – in contrast to some contemporary interpretations – the hermeneutics of continuity is possible regarding Church’s teaching on religious freedom.
Apresentação
Authors: Lima Clovis Ricardo Montenegro de
Published: March 2021

Apresentação
Desinformação, verdade e pós-verdade
Authors: Mello Mariana Rodrigues Gomes de , Martínez-Ávila Daniel
Published: March 2021

A partir do conceito de verdade no decurso da Teoria do Conhecimento, do contexto da pós-verdade e das reflexões de Piaget sobre o desenvolvimento cognitivo, objetiva-se criar um espaço pra reflexão de como os criterios sobre verdade foram construídos históricamente, e inter-relacioná-los com elementos da pós-verdade e da desinformação. Metodologicamente, trata-se uma pesquisa bibliográfica. O caráter exploratório se dá justamente com o paralelo entre a temática e as fases do desenvolvimento cognitivo em Piaget. Por meio de uma reflexão histórico- epistemológica do conceito de verdade, percebeu-se que é problemático se pensar em critérios absolutos de verdade. Porém, há informações que estão mais próximas destes critérios do que outras. Isso depende da fonte, do propósito, conhecimento e principalmente da ética de quem escreve. Ademais, percebeu-se que adultos que não tiveram acesso ao processo de educação adequado tendem a acreditar mais em fake news.
Preface
Authors: Lima Clóvis Ricardo Montenegro de
Published: March 2021

Preface
Expediente
Authors: Lima Clovis Ricardo Montenegro de
Published: March 2021

Expediente
A influência de Raymond Williams para a construção do conceito de cultura na ciência da informação no Brasil
Authors: Cunha Ísis Trindade da Silva , Câmara Rafael Silva da , Bufrem Leilah Santiago
Published: March 2021

Análise diacrônica das contribuições históricas expressas nos artigos científicos de pesquisadores bolsistas de produtividade em pesquisa do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, para o debate embasado em Raymond Williams no campo da Ciência da Informação, mais especificamente no interdomínio relacionado aos aspectos culturais. Apresenta a concepção adotada como fundamento do estudo, investigando a influência de Williams para as pesquisas sobre cultura na área. Identifica a produção científica dos agentes que constituem o grupo de pesquisadores de produtividade em Ciência da Informação, e que referenciaram Williams. Seleciona os artigos desses autores para verificar os temas presentes nessa produção e os periódicos científicos nos quais são publicados. Analisa essas contribuições, relacionando-as entre si e com as concepções presentes na literatura pertinente. O estudo permitiu identificar uma pequena parcela das publicações pesquisadas como citante de obras de Williams, porém é possível constatar que mais da metade dos artigos que trazem o autor como referência tratam sobre cultura. A pesquisa também demonstra a inclinação de dois pesquisadores em citar as obras de Raymond Williams, considerando suas publicações correspondem quase a metade do corpus da pesquisa. Foi possível observar que a publicação dos artigos analisados se encontra dispersa entre os diversos periódicos da área.
Overview of Natural Antiplasmodials from the Last Decade to Inspire Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Degotte Gilles , Pirotte Bernard , Francotte Pierre , Frédérich Michel
Published: March 2021

Background:

Despite major advances in the fight against this parasitic disease,
malaria remained a major cause of concern in 2021. This infection, mainly due to Plasmodium
falciparum, causes more than 200 million cases every year and hundreds of thousands
deaths in the developing regions, mostly in Africa. The last statistics show an increase
in the cases for the third consecutive year; from 211 million in 2015, it has reached
229 million in 2019. This trend could be partially explained by the appearance of resistance
to all the used antimalarials, including artemisinin. Thus, the design of new anti-
Plasmodium compounds is an urgent need. For thousands of years, nature has offered
humans medicines to cure their diseases or the inspiration for the development of new active
principles. It then seems logical to explore the natural sources to find new molecules
to treat this parasitosis.

Methods:

Therefore, this review reports and analyzes the extracts (plants, bacteria,
sponges, fungi) and the corresponding isolated compounds, showing antiplasmodial properties
between 2013 and 2019.

Results & Conclusion:

Nature remains a major source of active compounds. Indeed,
648 molecules from various origins, mostly plants, have been reported for their inhibitory
effect on Plasmodium falciparum. Among them, 188 scaffolds were defined as highly active
with IC50 ≤ 5 μM, and have been reported here in detail. Moreover, the most active
compounds showed a large variety of structures, such as flavonoids, triterpenes, and alkaloids.
Therefore, these compounds could be an interesting source of inspiration for medicinal
chemists; several of these molecules could become the next leads for malaria treatment.
The Use of Head-Worn Displays for Vital Sign Monitoring in Critical and Acute Care: Systematic Review
Authors: Elrose Francine , Hill Andrew , Liu David , Salisbury Isaac , LeCong Thien , Loeb Robert G , Sanderson Penelope
Published: March 2021

Background

Continuous monitoring of patient vital signs may improve patient outcomes. Head-worn displays (HWDs) can provide hands-free access to continuous vital sign information of patients in critical and acute care contexts and thus may reduce instances of unrecognized patient deterioration.

Objective

The purpose of the study is to conduct a systematic review of the literature to evaluate clinical, surrogate, and process outcomes when clinicians use HWDs for continuous patient vital sign monitoring.

Methods

The review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019119875) and followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. A literature search was conducted for articles published between January 1995 and June 2020 using the following databases: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Overall, 2 reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts and then assessed the full text of the articles. Original research articles that evaluated the clinical, surrogate, or process outcomes of head-mounted displays for continuous vital sign monitoring in critical care or acute care contexts were included.

Results

Of the 214 records obtained, 15 (7%) articles met the predefined criteria and were included in this review. Of the 15 studies, 7 (47%) took place in a clinical context, whereas the remainder took place in a simulation environment. In 100% (7/7) of the studies that evaluated gaze behavior, changes were found in gaze direction with HWDs. Change detection improvements were found in 67% (2/3) of the studies evaluating changes in the participants’ ability to detect changes in vital signs. Of the 10 studies assessing the ease of use of the HWD, most participants of 7 (70%) studies reported that the HWD was easy to use. In all 6 studies in which participants were asked if they would consider using the HWD in their practice, most participants responded positively, but they often suggested improvements on the HWD hardware or display design. Of the 7 studies conducted in clinical contexts, none reported any clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Although there is limited and sometimes conflicting evidence about the benefits of HWDs from certain surrogate and process outcomes, evidence for clinical outcomes is lacking. Recommendations are to employ user-centered design when developing HWDs, perform longitudinal studies, and seek clinical outcomes.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42019119875; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=119875
Wireless Home Blood Pressure Monitoring System With Automatic Outcome-Based Feedback and Financial Incentives to Improve Blood Pressure in People With Hypertension: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bilger Marcel , Koong Agnes Ying Leng , Phoon Ian Kwong Yun , Tan Ngiap Chuan , Bahadin Juliana , Bairavi Joann , Batcagan-Abueg Ada Portia M , Finkelstein Eric A
Published: March 2021

Background

Hypertension is prevalent in Singapore and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and increased health care costs. Strategies to lower blood pressure include lifestyle modifications and home blood pressure monitoring. Nonetheless, adherence to home blood pressure monitoring remains low. This protocol details an algorithm for remote management of primary care patients with hypertension.

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine whether wireless home blood pressure monitoring with or without financial incentives is more effective at reducing systolic blood pressure than nonwireless home blood pressure monitoring (usual care).

Methods

This study was designed as a randomized controlled open-label superiority study. A sample size of 224 was required to detect differences of 10 mmHg in average systolic blood pressure. Participants were to be randomized, in the ratio of 2:3:3, into 1 of 3 parallel study arms :(1) usual care, (2) wireless home blood pressure monitoring, and (3) wireless home blood pressure monitoring with financial incentives. The primary outcome was the mean change in systolic blood pressure at month 6. The secondary outcomes were the mean reduction in diastolic blood pressure, cost of financial incentives, time taken for the intervention, adherence to home blood pressure monitoring, effectiveness of the framing of financial incentives in decreasing nonadherence to blood pressure self-monitoring and the adherence to antihypertensive medication at month 6.

Results

This study was approved by SingHealth Centralised Institutional Review Board and registered. Between January 24, 2018 and July 10, 2018, 42 participants (18.75% of the required sample size) were enrolled, and 33 participants completed the month 6 assessment by January 31, 2019.

Conclusions

Due to unforeseen events, the study was stopped prematurely; therefore, no results are available. Depending on the blood pressure information received from the patients, the algorithm can trigger immediate blood pressure advice (eg, Accident and Emergency department visit advice for extremely high blood pressure), weekly feedback on blood pressure monitoring, medication titration, or skipping of routine follow-ups. The inclusion of financial incentives framed as health capital provides a novel idea on how to promote adherence to remote monitoring, and ultimately, improve chronic disease management.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT 03368417; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03368417

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/27496
Use of Machine Learning Algorithms to Predict the Understandability of Health Education Materials: Development and Evaluation Study
Authors: Ji Meng , Liu Yanmeng , Zhao Mengdan , Lyu Ziqing , Zhang Boren , Luo Xin , Li Yanlin , Zhong Yin
Published: March 2021

Background

Improving the understandability of health information can significantly increase the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of health education programs for vulnerable populations. There is a pressing need to develop clinically informed computerized tools to enable rapid, reliable assessment of the linguistic understandability of specialized health and medical education resources. This paper fills a critical gap in current patient-oriented health resource development, which requires reliable and accurate evaluation instruments to increase the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of health education resource evaluation.

Objective

We aimed to translate internationally endorsed clinical guidelines to machine learning algorithms to facilitate the evaluation of the understandability of health resources for international students at Australian universities.

Methods

Based on international patient health resource assessment guidelines, we developed machine learning algorithms to predict the linguistic understandability of health texts for Australian college students (aged 25-30 years) from non-English speaking backgrounds. We compared extreme gradient boosting, random forest, neural networks, and C5.0 decision tree for automated health information understandability evaluation. The 5 machine learning models achieved statistically better results compared to the baseline logistic regression model. We also evaluated the impact of each linguistic feature on the performance of each of the 5 models.

Results

We found that information evidentness, relevance to educational purposes, and logical sequence were consistently more important than numeracy skills and medical knowledge when assessing the linguistic understandability of health education resources for international tertiary students with adequate English skills (International English Language Testing System mean score 6.5) and high health literacy (mean 16.5 in the Short Assessment of Health Literacy-English test). Our results challenge the traditional views that lack of medical knowledge and numerical skills constituted the barriers to the understanding of health educational materials.

Conclusions

Machine learning algorithms were developed to predict health information understandability for international college students aged 25-30 years. Thirteen natural language features and 5 evaluation dimensions were identified and compared in terms of their impact on the performance of the models. Health information understandability varies according to the demographic profiles of the target readers, and for international tertiary students, improving health information evidentness, relevance, and logic is critical.