bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Metabolome Analyses of Chinese Hickory Nut Kernels Highlight The Importance of Allocation Shift and Accumulation on Primary and Secondary Metabolites During In-Situ Germination
Authors: Xiao Lihong , Ong Wen-Dee , Wang Jianhua , Huang Chunying , Hong Junye , Xi Jianwei , Lv Saibin , Li Xuan , Huang Jianqin
Published: September 2020

Background: Chinese hickory ( Carya cathayensis ) and pecan ( C. illinoinensis ) are popular nut trees with high economic value in the family Juglandaceae, due to the richness in nutrients and multiple health factors in their nut kernels. However, the considerable in-situ germination of the nut seeds severely impact the quality of the kernels. The fundamental meta bolic mechanism of in-situ germination has been widely reported in major crops but rare in nut crops. Results: We sampled non- and pre-sprouted Chinese hickory nut kernels and performed liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)-based metabolomic analyses. Comparative metabolomic analyses revealed 35 6 significantly-changed metabolites during in-situ germination. Detailed analysis emphasized the increasing accumulation and dynamic changes in compounds of primary mechanism and energy supply for in-situ germination. The results highlighted the importance of allocation shift and accumulation on four classes of primary metabolites and their derivatives, and two secondary metabolite classes between the transitions of germination initiation and germination and seedling establishment during the process. Metabolites related to carbohydrates and nitrogen metabolism, and few harmful to human health also demonstrated increasing accumulation along the process. Conclusions: The findings flourish our understanding of the metabolic mechanisms of in-situ germination and will be useful for future application in molecular breeding in Chinese hickory.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Versus Antegrade Nailing for 3- and 4-Part Proximal Humeral Fractures in Elderly Patients.
Authors: AMRI Khalil , AYARI Rabie , TLEMSANI Karim LATRECH , ABDENNADHER Achraf , SALAH Mohamed BEN , DHAHRI Rim , CHOURABI Chadia , NOUISRI Lotfi
Published: September 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be withdrawn due to erroneous posting.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of Human Immune Deficiency Virus Among Male Partner of Pregnant Women Attending in Shegaw Motta Primary Hospital. Institutional Based Crosectional Study
Authors: Aniley Habtamu Ayele
Published: September 2020

Background: The transmission of HIV AIDS from mother to child is high still now. One of the factors may be due to the low level of the knowledge; attitude and practice of male partners for the HIV infected pregnant mothers. Therefore, the study was aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of male partners of pregnant women, so that, level of knowledge, attitude and practice of male partners of pregnant women would be known. However, little research is done to assess knowledge, attitude and practice toward MTCT/PMTCT program where these studies are limited in their scope, which focus only on pregnant mothers and there is a gap in examining knowledge and attitude of male partners. Assessing the knowledge, attitudes and practice of male partner of pregnant women at ANC and PMTCT program is vital for interventions on men. Objective: To assess knowledge, attitude and practice towards prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV among male partner of pregnant women attending in Shegaw Motta Primary Hospital East Gojjam zone, Amahra Ethiopia in 2018.Results: From the total population 46.2% of the respondents had good knowledge. But, only 16.3 the respondents had poor knowledge. 55.6% of the respondents had positive attitude and 44.4% had negative attitude towards MTCT and PMTCT. 81.5% of the respondents had low level of involvement and 18. 5% of the respondents had high level of involvement towards MTCT and PMTCT Conclusion: Majority of the respondents had good knowledge and positive attitude towards MTCT and PMTCT. But majority of the respondents had low level involvement towards MTCT and PMTCT.
Comparison of Content and Psychometric Properties for Assessment Tools Used for Brain Tumor Patients: a Systemic Literature Review
Authors: Ģiga Lelde , Pētersone Anete , Čakstiņa Silva , Bērziņa Guna
Published: September 2020

Aims: To determine the most frequently utilized functional status assessment instruments for patients with brain tumors, compare their contents, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), and their psychometric properties.Methods: a systematic literature search was performed for identification of the frequently used functional assessment tool in clinical trials in PubMed, ScienceDirect and ProQuest databases. The content of most used instruments was linked to the ICF categories. Psychometric qualities of these assessment tools were systematically searched and analyzed.Results: Nine most used assessment tools in clinical trials were identified. The Karnofsky Performance Scale was the only generic tool for oncologic patients. Out of four self-assessment tools, three were disease-specific (EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-BN20 and FACT-Br) and one used for different diagnosis (SF-36). The Functional Independence Measure and the Barthel Index were two objective assessment tools that described functioning, but two were neuropsychological tests (MMSE and Trial Making Test). Two hundred eighty-three meaningful concepts were identified and linked to 102 most relevant second-level categories covering all components of the ICF. Forty-nine studies reporting psychometric properties of those nine assessment tools were identified, indicating good reliability and validity for all the instruments.Conclusion: Nine most frequently utilized functional status assessment instruments for patients with brain tumors represent all components of the ICF and have good psychometric properties. However, the choice of the tool depends on the clinical question posed and the aim of its use.
Fu-Zheng-Jie-Du Ointment Enhances the Therapeutic Efficacy of 5-fluoropyrimidine by Inhibiting TIE2-expressing Monocyte/macrophage-mediated Angiogenesis in a Mouse Gastric Cancer Model
Authors: Wu Zhe , Gao Ruike , Xu Manman , Song Zhuo , Tian Qihang , Lj Jie
Published: September 2020

Background: Most cases of gastric cancer (GC), which is one of the most common cancers in China, are diagnosed at an advanced stage. The first-line treatments for GC include 5-fluoropyrimidine (5-FU)-based chemotherapy. However, the cancer cells may develop 5-FU resistance. The inhibition of angiogenesis can be an alternative therapeutic strategy for GC. Recent studies have demonstrated that TIE2-expressing monocytes/macrophages (TEMs), a subtype of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), exhibit profound pro-angiogenic activity. The herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine can be a potential source of anti-cancer agents and can improve the therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapy drugs. In this study, the role of TEMs in the synergistic anti-cancer effects of Fu-Zheng-Jie-Du ointment (FZJD) and 5-FU was evaluated.Methods: The migration of TEMs was evaluated using the transwell assay. Tube formation assay and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis were used to determine the pro-angiogenic activity of TEMs. Tumor-bearing mouse model and immunohistofluorescence stain were used to evaluate the anti-tumor effect of FZJD and the underlying mechanism.Results: FZJD inhibited the migration and pro-angiogenic activity of TEMs. Additionally, tumor growth in the mice co-treated with FZJD and 5-FU was lower than that in the mice treated with FZJD or 5-FU. Immunohistofluorescence stain revealed that the migration of TEMs was not inhibited upon treatment with FZJD alone or in combination with 5-FU. Moreover, treatment with FZJD did not decrease the endothelial cell population. In contrast, the treatment combination of FZJD and 5-FU markedly decreased the endothelial cell population.Conclusions: FZJD improves the anti-cancer efficacy of 5-FU through the inhibition of TEM-mediated angiogenesis.
Unexpected Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis During Bronchoscopy Using Radial Probe Endobronchial Ultrasound
Authors: Chung Hyun Sung , Bae Soohyun , Kim Insu , Ahn Hyo Yeong , Eom Jung Seop
Published: September 2020

Background: Bronchoscopy using radial probe endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is performed when a peripheral lung lesion (PLL) is suspected to be malignant. However, pulmonary tuberculosis is unexpectedly diagnosed in some patients, and healthcare workers could therefore be exposed to tuberculosis if sufficient precautions are not taken. In this study, we examined the incidence of and factors associated with unexpected diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis during bronchoscopy using radial probe EBUS.Methods: This retrospective study included 970 patients who received bronchoscopy using radial probe EBUS between December 2015 and November 2018. Clinical, histological, radiological, and microbiological data were reviewed.Results: Pulmonary tuberculosis was unexpectedly diagnosed in 31 patients (3.2%) during bronchoscopy using radial probe EBUS. Patients with a lower age were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with tuberculosis than elderly patients (odds ratio [OR], 0.951; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.924–0.978; P = 0.001). Among the various CT findings, a low HUs difference between pre- and post-enhanced CT (OR, 0.976; 95% CI, 0.955–0.996; P = 0.022), the presence of concentric cavitation (OR, 5.211; 95% CI, 1.447–18.759; P = 0.012), and the presence of satellite centrilobular nodules (OR, 22.925; 95% CI, 10.556–49.785; P < 0.001) were independently associated with unexpected diagnosis of tuberculosis.Conclusions: The risk of healthcare workers being exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis during bronchoscopy using radial probe EBUS has been underestimated. Our results suggest that healthcare workers in the bronchoscopy suite should consider high-grade respiratory protection when examining patients with risk factors for an unexpected diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis.
Impact of Educational Self-efficacy Enhancement Program on Quality of Life, Pain Management, Self-efficiency Behaviors, and Its Impact of Satisfaction Among Adult Diabetic Patients With Peripheral Neuropathy Pain
Authors: Abu-Shennar Jawad AHMAD , Bayraktar Nurhan Bayraktar
Published: September 2020

AimsThis study aims to investigate the impact of the educational self-efficacy enhancement program on quality of life, pain management, self-efficiency behaviors, and its impact satisfaction among adult diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy pain.Materials and methodsThis randomized controlled study was conducted at the Jordanian Ministry of Health. during the period from October - March 2020 with 72 adult diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy pain, after the ethical approval. Study group participants have implemented an educational self-efficacy enhancement program. Demographic data from, Diabetes Self-Efficacy Scale, Quality of Life Questionnaire (EQ-5D), Pain Intensity Scale, and Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire were used in data collection. ResultsThis study found that the self-efficacy enhancement program had a significantly positive impact on diabetic peripheral neuropathy pain patients’ QoL, pain levels, self-efficiency behaviors, and satisfaction.ConclusionIt is crucial to improve their self-efficacy behaviors and modification of lifestyle and behavioral changes such as appropriate diet, exercise, reduce weight and encouragement stop smoking, and regularly visit treating physicians.
Preparation of 3D Printable HAp-based Composite Powder for Binder Jetting Process
Authors: Dini Fahimeh , Ghaffari Seyed Amir , Javadpour Jafar , Rezaie Hamid Reza
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study was to prepare a 3D printable powder composed of hydroxyapatite and biocompatible polymers such as chitosan, dextrin, and polyvinylpyrrolidone for the binder jetting process. The relationship between powder properties such as flowability and particle size distribution, as well as printing quality were investigated in the binder jetting process. For this purpose, 3D printable powder and an appropriate solvent were designed and demonstrated by hydroxyapatite and water-soluble polymers such as carboxymethyl chitosan, dextrin, and PVP. Results showed that a combination of 60%wt. hydroxyapatite, 28%wt. carboxymethyl chitosan, 10% wt. dextrin, and 2% wt. PVP, with controlled particle size distribution according to the Dinger-Funk equation led to the best print quality. Finally, flash dipping of the 3D printed parts in chitosan solution resulted in increases of compressive and Young's modulus from 1.3 and 10 MPa to 7.4 and 125 MPa, respectively.
Investigating Public Values in Health Care Priority – Chileans´ Preference for National Health Care
Authors: Nunez Alicia , Chi Chunhuei
Published: September 2020

Background: This study aims to assess preferences and values for priority setting in healthcare in Chile through an original and innovative survey method. Based on the answers from a previous survey that look into the barriers the Chilean population face, this study considers the preferences of the communities overcoming those barriers. As a result six programs were identified: (1) new infrastructure, (2) better healthcare coverage, (3) increasing physicians/specialists, (4) new informatics systems, (5) new awareness healthcare programs, and (6) improving availability of drugs. Methods: We applied an innovative survey method for sample subjects to prioritize these programs by their opinion and by allocating resources. The survey also asked people´s preferences for a distributive justice principle for healthcare to guide priority setting of services in Chile. The survey was conducted with a sample of 1,142 individuals. Results: More than half of the interviewees (56.4%) indicated a single program as their first priority, while 20.1% selected two of them as their first priority. To increase the number of doctors/specialists and improve patient-doctor communication was the program that obtained the highest priority. The second and third priorities correspond to improving and investing in infrastructure and expanding the coverage of healthcare insurances. Additionally, the results showed that equal access for equal healthcare is the principle selected by the majority to guide distributive justice for the Chilean health system. Conclusions: This study shade lights on how a large population sample can participate in major decision making of national health policies, including making a choice of a distributive justice principle. Despite the complexity of the questions asked, this study demonstrated that with an innovative method and adequate guidance, average population is capable of engaging in expressing their preferences and values. Results of this study provide policy-makers useful community generated information for prioritizing policies to improve healthcare access.
Indwelling pleural catheters for malignancy related pleural effusions
Authors: Aujayeb Avinash
Published: September 2020

ObjectivesThe incidence of malignancy related pleural effusions (MPE) is increasing. MPE carry significant morbidity and mortality. Indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs) have become the cornerstone in management and are supported by established international guidance. Large case reviews add to the evidence base regarding safety and efficacy. Methods168 patients had an IPC insertion between January 2012 and December 2018 in a large pleural centre in the North East of England. Data on outcomes and complications were obtained from the patients’ notes, electronic records, laboratory, and radiographic findings. Descriptive statistical methodology was applied. Results168 IPCs were inserted in a predominantly male population by experienced pleural practitioners. Overall complication rate is 13% and the incidence of any individual complications such as infection, metastatic seeding, drain displacement and loculations are much less than previously quoted in the literature. ConclusionThis case review adds to the large body of evidence that IPCs are safe and have minimal complications in the palliation of symptoms of malignant pleural effusion.
Lehren lernen mit digitalen Medien
Authors: Scheidig Falk
Published: September 2020

Die individuelle Professionalisierung und der Erwerb einschlägiger Kompetenzen sind wesentliche Ziele der Lehrpersonenbildung. Die (mangelnde) Praxisorientierung von Lehramtsstudiengängen wird jedoch seit Langem kontrovers diskutiert. Während sich die Aufmerksamkeit vor allem auf Praktika (und deren Ausdehnung) richtet, erlaubt der Einsatz digitaler Technologien in der Hochschullehre wie etwa Onlineplattformen für kollaborative Videoannotation, Eye-Tracking oder Virtual-Reality-Simulationen neue Formen der technologiegestützten Bezugnahme auf Praxis. Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über digitale Praxisbezüge, zeigt Beispiele und diskutiert deren Potenziale.
Perspectives on Women: A Case Study of a University Course on Public Television
Authors: Landsburg June R. , Fellman Clair Anita
Published: September 2020

This case study on the development and presentation of a university course on a public television channel demonstrates some of the significant differences between a classroom course and a broadcast television course. The interaction between Simon Fraser University and British Columbia's Knowledge Network are described in the context of the course Perspectives on women: An Introduction to Womens Studies. The paper describes how public television influenced the course design, particularly those components of the course which had potential for controversy.
Review: A Critical Look at CJEC, Vol. 15. No.1
Authors: McNutt G. Robert
Published: September 2020

None
Confidence in Media Utilization - Does the Instructional Approach Make a Difference?
Authors: Bass Ronald K. , Morton Wellington C.
Published: September 2020

None
Children and TV: Piaget's Method Applied
Authors: Baron Lois
Published: September 2020

None
Teaching Note: Do You Know How Your Kids Are Watching?
Authors: Livesley Jack
Published: September 2020

None
Project Report: Telematics
Authors: Syrett John H.
Published: September 2020

None
Review of Teaching as a Conserving Activity
Authors: Lewis Patricia A.D.
Published: September 2020

None
In My Opinion: Alberta Invests in Apples: A Commentary
Authors: Kenny Richard
Published: September 2020

None
Rationale and Procedures for Developing Instructional Media Programs
Authors: Tremblay Yolande
Published: September 2020

None
Reviews
Authors: Reviewers Various
Published: September 2020

None
Visual Design in Distance Education
Authors: Kaufman David , Usukawa Saeko , Sketches Denise
Published: September 2020

None
The Computer as Fool
Authors: Williams David
Published: September 2020

None
Selecting Films for ESL
Authors: Smith Inger
Published: September 2020

None
Computer Resource Booking: A Developmental Process
Authors: Bates Donald
Published: September 2020

None
Education and The Impact of Computer Technology
Authors: Rich Tom
Published: September 2020

None
Educational Communications Personnel The New Internationalists
Authors: Shears Arthur
Published: September 2020

None
Film Reviews
Authors: Kolomeychuk Terry
Published: September 2020

None
Applications of Computer Technology in Distance Education: The Case of the Open Learning Institute
Authors: Mugridge Ian
Published: September 2020

None
Major Field Techniques & Instruction Levels by Canadian Instructional Developers
Authors: Bennett Tom
Published: September 2020

None
Microware Reviews
Authors: Proctor Leonard
Published: September 2020

None
Pain Management During COVID-19 and Scope of Ayurvedic Marijuana
Authors: Krishnan Prakash , D Priya
Published: September 2020

During this novel corona virus outbreak, it is found that the most vulnerable population are the old age, especially with co-morbidities like Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other related pain diseases that are at greater risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2. This infection is because of their impaired immune systems due to use of corticosteroids and certain drugs.  Ayurvedic marijuana, as a safe remedy with phytochemicals known as cannabinoids have shown significant promise in basic experiments on pain management. Study shows leaves?of this plant have been found effective in alleviating pain and other symptoms in patients.
Role of the Epidemiologist in the Containment of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Obi Chidera Gabriel , Ezaka Ephraim Ibeabuchi , Nwankwo Jennifer Ifunanya , Onuigbo Irene Ifeatu
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 virus is a novel virus that is zoonotic and has infected more than two million people with over Three hundred people who died from the pandemic. The virus has been declared a pandemic by the W.H.O overwhelming the health system and capacity of many countries with known cases of death of health workers and non-health workers alike. The virus can be prevented through adequate personal and respiratory hygiene and maintaining social distancing at this point in time. Although doctors and nurses might be the frontline and visible image of health workers in the ongoing battle against the virus, there are other health workers behind the scene like epidemiologists working round the clock to control this current pandemic Epidemiologist deals with data and data is the focal point in the prevention and control of diseases. Epidemiologists are involved in the Surveillance, Identification and Monitoring of Outbreaks, conducting researches and evaluating policies geared at Outbreaks. Problems associated with Data are the major constraints of an Epidemiologist. Efforts are currently ongoing by various health personnel to control the virus and provide vaccines for the treatment of the disease.
EFFECT OF COVID-19 LOCKDOWN ON KERALA’S JOB MARKET
Authors: Ellikkal Adil , Rajamohan S
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 outbreak is an exact reminder that pandemic like other rarely occurring disasters have happened in the past and will continue to happen in the future. Around the globe, countries are in lockdown, and citizens are asked to maintain social distancing and stay at home. This is not first instances that Kerala is fighting against a deadly virus like Coronavirus. Earlier in 2018, Nipah virus had been identified in Kerala and they had mortality rate of 40 to 80 per cent. From previous experience, among all the states in India, Kerala was well and the best prepared to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and has managed to flatten the curve. But COVID-19 hit Kerala very hard, because the major source of revenue comes from tourism and Non-Resident Keralites (NRK’s) remittance drastically fell down. This paper provides vital insight into the effect on COVID-19 on Kerala’s job market. The aim of this study is to find out how Kerala’s job markets are being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since Malayalees are working in different countries across the world, survey method is used to collect data. The study helps us to understand the demographic characteristics of workforce in Kerala. It clearly discusses effect of COVID-19 on different sectors where of Malayalees work across the world. The study also helps to analyze the effect of COVID-19 on employability of graduates and non-graduates. Finally, this study identifies the rate of job loss due to COVID-19 lockdown during the month of June 2020.
Potential role of Curcumin against viral infections with a view on structure and pathogenesis of COVID-19
Authors: Singh Kajal
Published: September 2020

A novel Coronavirus disease 2019 (nCOVID-19) is an enveloped, positive sense, single stranded RNA viruses of zoonotic origin caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus, currently responsible for pandemic health crisis. Due to increasing mortality rate there is an immediate need to develop possible treatments and understand the mechanism through which virus can cause complications in human body. The review intended to provide link between natural product as treatment and COVID-19 disease. Therefore, this review summarizes the structure, pathogenesis as well as understanding the various role of curcumin as a treatment option for COVID-19 which includes: targeting viral entry to host cells, targeting viral replication, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. Hence, curcumin can be a potential treatment option for COVID-19 patients and this review also suggest that more clinical research and development is needed in order to prepare a new drug for emerging SARS-CoV-2.
Pharmacogenomics to Drive COVID-19 Therapy for Best Outcome in a Low Resource Setting
Authors: Iyer Gayatri , Zubeda Syeda , Kamireddy Aruna Priya , Hasan Qurratulain
Published: September 2020

Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has taken the world by storm with global infectivity and mortality of 3.5%. Since there is no specific treatment for COVID-19, several drugs have been repurposed to combat infection, these include drugs like anti-malarial – chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, anti- diarrheal– loperamide and antipsychotic-promazine, which have been considered to be effective inhibitors as of viral binding to ACE2 receptor. The administration of these drugs is currently random and is the key factors responsible for varied treatment response, hence genes involved in drug metabolism should be analysed before planning therapy. Genes involved in metabolism of the listed drugs are ABCB1, CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C19, CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. Unpublished pharmacogenomic data from our internal cohort (75 cases) was analyzed to predict likely-responders and non-responders to propose drugs for COVID-19 drug therapy in our population. Preliminary data from random individuals without bias indicates that both anti-malarials at standard dose will benefit 98% of our cases (in absence of co-morbidities), while 11-85% of individuals would require dose reduction/alternatives for loperamide and promazine. Anti-malarials like chloroquine, hydroxychroloquine can be prescribed for prophylaxis and as first line of therapy in absence of comorbidities.  Simple genotype testing of ABCB1, CYP1A2, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 is an indispensable tool to predict treatment outcomes of loperamide and promazine for COVID-19 patients.
Withdrawal Notice: Green Chemistry Synthesis Methods of Oxazine and Thiazine Derivatives as Promising Scaffolds in Medicinal Chemistry: A Mini-Review
Authors: Asif Mohammad , Imran Mohammad
Published: September 2020

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the authors and editor of the journal Mini-Reviews in Organic Chemistry due
to incoherent content.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

Bentham Science Disclaimer:

It is a condition of publication that manuscripts submitted to this journal have not been published and will not be simultaneously
submitted or published elsewhere. Furthermore, any data, illustration, structure or table that has been published elsewhere
must be reported, and copyright permission for reproduction must be obtained. Plagiarism is strictly forbidden, and by submitting
the article for publication the authors agree that the publishers have the legal right to take appropriate action against the
authors, if plagiarism or fabricated information is discovered. By submitting a manuscript, the authors agree that the copyright
of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
Nanotechnology: Its Application in Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Naz Falaq , Siddique Yasir Hasan
Published: September 2020

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington disease
have serious concern due to its effect on the quality of life of affected persons. They have some limitations
at diagnostic as well as the treatment level. Introducing nanotechnology, for the treatment
of these diseases may contribute significantly to solve the problem. There are several treatment
strategies for the neurodegenerative diseases, but most of them fail to cross the Blood-Brain Barrier
(BBB). The present review highlights the application of nanotechnology during last the 20 years
for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
A Green Control Release NPK Fertilizer Based on Micro/Nanoparticle of Chitosan Impregnated Activated Coir Fiber
Authors: Siri J.G.S. , Fernando C.A.N. , De Silva S.N.T.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Conventional chemical fertilizers enhance agricultural output but deteriorate soil quality and
fertility while causation of health and environmental issues. Therefore, continual use of chemical fertilizers is not
sustainable. Control release nanofertilizer is one of the solutions to said issues. Nanofertilizers use metallic nanoparticles
and toxic cross-linkers (eg. Glutaraldehyde, Glyoxal and Methacrylic Acid) which also pose risks to health and environment.
Synthetic, non-biodegradable costly raw material based nanofertilizers will also create new-generation-waste in future
which is not sustainable.

Objective:

Development of an environment friendly nanofertilizer for prolong control release of plant macronutrients -
Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium (NPK).

Methods:

Chitosan was obtained from deacetylation of chitin which was extracted from shrimp exoskeleton.
Micro/nanoparticles of chitosan were synthesized with ionotropic gelation method excluding toxic cross-linkers.
Macronutrient loaded nanoparticles were impregnated to micro and nano pores in activated coir fiber followed by coating
with a natural exudate water diffusional barrier. Macronutrient release behaviour and efficacy of control release fertilizer
were studied against conventional bulk fertilizer.

Results:

Mean size of nanoparticles was 100 nm. FTIR analysis showed the macronutrient interaction with
micro/nanoparticles of chitosan. Macronutrients were incorporated into nanoparticles at 12 % loading efficiency and 20 %
entrapment efficiency. The developed fertilizer showed control release of macronutrients even beyond 90 days whereas
commercial fertilizer showed an initial burst lasting a negligible release after 30 days. Results from pot trials indicated that
nanofertilizer enhances yield performance of rice plants against commercial fertilizer.

Conclusion:

A green nanofertilizer can be developed with a simple method using biocompatible, biodegradable, non-toxic
and renewable natural based raw materials for prolong control release of plant macronutrients excluding toxic chemicals.
Since the starting materials are coir fiber and shrimp exoskeleton which is a waste, it could significantly reduce the
production cost hence present study discloses an economically sound, environment friendly and socially responsible
nanofertilizer.
Adherence of HIV Self-Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: Longitudinal Study (Preprint)
Authors: Yan Xiangyu , Su Hexuan , Zhang Bo , Li Yongjie , Zhang Lingling , Jia Zhongwei
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization recommended HIV self-testing (HIVST) for individuals practicing unsafe sexual behaviors; however, the adherence to HIV testing has not been reported.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we attempted to determine the adherence to HIVST among men who have sex with men (MSM), as well as the impact factors and potential effects of their adherence.

METHODS

We conducted a longitudinal study among MSM in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, China from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018. A mobile app system was used to provide the “Mailing rapid test reagent kit” for the HIVST service. The proportion of those who adhered to HIV testing every 3 months was calculated. Logistic regression was used to explore the impact factors related to adherence to HIVST. Rates of HIV infection between MSM who adhered to HIVST and those who did not were compared using Cox proportional hazards regression. Changes of condom use behaviors between the two groups were also compared using the chi-square test.

RESULTS

A total of 1315 MSM who received the HIVST service through the app were included in the study. Overall, 10% of the MSM adhered to HIVST, and the proportion of adhering tests was only 34.9%. Adherence of HIVST was associated with marital status (adjusted odds ratio [OR]unmarried vs married 2.31, 95% CI 1.13-4.71) and the number of HIV tests they received (adjusted OR3 times vs 2 times or below 3.36, 95% CI 2.01-5.63; adjusted OR4 times or above vs 2 times or below 7.30, 95% CI 4.67-11.42). Twenty HIV seroconversions were observed during 1-year follow up. The rate of HIV infection in the adherence group (17.10 per 100 person years, 95% CI 8.80-30.84) was significantly higher than that in the nonadherence group (4.80 per 100 person years, 95% CI 2.77-7.88; adjusted hazard ratio 3.33, 95% CI 1.35-8.20). Those who adhered to HIV testing were more likely to improve condom use behaviors, although the difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Regular HIV testing is necessary for early detection of HIV infection among MSM. Given the poor adherence, a new internet-based management paradigm for MSM is needed to raise their health awareness to optimize the implementation of HIVST.
A New Era of Epidemiology: Digital Epidemiology for Investigating the COVID-19 Outbreak in China (Preprint)
Authors: He Zonglin , Zhang Casper J P , Huang Jian , Zhai Jingyan , Zhou Shuang , Chiu Joyce Wai-Ting , Sheng Jie , Tsang Winghei , Akinwunmi Babatunde O , Ming Wai-Kit
Published: September 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

A novel pneumonia-like coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by a novel coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2 has swept across China and the world. Public health measures that were effective in previous infection outbreaks (eg, wearing a face mask, quarantining) were implemented in this outbreak. Available multidimensional social network data that take advantage of the recent rapid development of information and communication technologies allow for an exploration of disease spread and control via a modernized epidemiological approach. By using spatiotemporal data and real-time information, we can provide more accurate estimates of disease spread patterns related to human activities and enable more efficient responses to the outbreak. Two real cases during the COVID-19 outbreak demonstrated the application of emerging technologies and digital data in monitoring human movements related to disease spread. Although the ethical issues related to using digital epidemiology are still under debate, the cases reported in this article may enable the identification of more effective public health measures, as well as future applications of such digitally directed epidemiological approaches in controlling infectious disease outbreaks, which offer an alternative and modern outlook on addressing the long-standing challenges in population health.
Web-Based Discussion Forums on Pregnancy-Related Physical Symptoms: A Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Wu Wan-Ru , Lee Li-Chun , Yu Pei-Jung
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy-induced physical symptoms are less often discussed in a clinical setting during prenatal care as these have been mostly viewed as a normal part of the physiological process. However, pregnancy has been found to be a period of active online searching. Exploring online forums have the potential to gain in-depth knowledge about issues on physical discomforts that pregnant women discuss with their peers who have similar experiences or are living in comparable circumstances.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to explore types of pregnancy-related physical symptoms among pregnant women and to further identify the concerns that prompted women to discuss online.

METHODS

A retrospective qualitative study of web-based forum postings was conducted in two stages: (1) identifying eligible discussion forums and (2) identifying relevant postings. Forum postings between July 2016 and June 2017 were purposively selected and analyzed using the inductive approach. The SRQR guideline was followed for reporting this qualitative research.

RESULTS

In total, 574 initial postings and 2801 comments were selected from 3 eligible discussion forums. Eighteen categories of pregnancy-related physical symptoms were considered for discussion, among which nausea and vomiting accounted for one-quarter of the discussion postings. Concerns that prompted pregnant women to discuss with peers were diagnosis-oriented, solution-oriented, and emotion-oriented.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis of web-based pregnancy discussion forums can be a valuable resource to better understand pregnancy issues. Thus, this present study was able to highlight significant concerns pertaining to physical symptoms and discomfort during pregnancy. Three different types of concerns have reflected women’s psychological aspects in adapting to physical changes during pregnancy progression.
Sexual Health Influencer Distribution of HIV/Syphilis Self-Tests Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: Secondary Analysis to Inform Community-Based Interventions (Preprint)
Authors: Yang Nancy , Wu Dan , Zhou Yi , Huang Shanzi , He Xi , Tucker Joseph , Li Xiaofeng , Smith Kumi M , Jiang Xiaohui , Wang Yehua , Huang Wenting , Fu Hongyun , Bao Huanyu , Jiang Hongbo , Dai Wencan , Tang Weiming
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Social network–based strategies can expand HIV/syphilis self-tests among men who have sex with men (MSM). Sexual health influencers are individuals who are particularly capable of spreading information about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) within their social networks. However, it remains unknown whether a sexual health influencer can encourage their peers to self-test for HIV/syphilis.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to examine the impact of MSM sexual health influencers on improving HIV/syphilis self-test uptake within their social networks compared to that of nonsexual health influencers.

METHODS

In Zhuhai, China, men 16 years or older, born biologically male, who reported ever having had sex with a man, and applying for HIV/syphilis self-tests were enrolled online as indexes and encouraged to distribute self-tests to individuals (alters) in their social network. Indexes scoring >3 on a sexual health influencer scale were considered to be sexual health influencers (Cronbach α=.87). The primary outcome was the mean number of alters encouraged to test per index for sexual health influencers compared with the number encouraged by noninfluencers.

RESULTS

Participants included 371 indexes and 278 alters. Among indexes, 77 (20.8%) were sexual health influencers and 294 (79.2%) were noninfluencers. On average, each sexual health influencer successfully encouraged 1.66 alters to self-test compared to 0.51 alters encouraged by each noninfluencer (adjusted rate ratio 2.07, 95% CI 1.59-2.69). More sexual health influencers disclosed their sexual orientation (80.5% vs 67.3%, P=.02) and were community-based organization volunteers (18.2% vs 2.7%, P<.001) than noninfluencers. More alters of sexual health influencers came from a rural area (45.5% vs 23.8%, P<.001), had below-college education (57.7% vs 37.1%, P<.001), and had multiple casual male sexual partners in the past 6 months (25.2% vs 11.9%, P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Being a sexual health influencer was associated with encouraging more alters with less testing access to self-test for HIV/syphilis. Sexual health influencers can be engaged as seeds to expand HIV/syphilis testing coverage.
Implementing remote collaboration in a virtual patient platform – enabling students and physicians to learn collaborative clinical reasoning (Preprint)
Authors: Kiesewetter Jan , Hege Inga , Sailer Michael , Bauer Elisabeth , Schulz Claudia , Platz Manfred , Adler Manfred
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Learning with virtual patients is highly popular for fostering clinical reasoning in medical education. However, little learning with virtual patients is done collaboratively, despite the potential learning benefits of collaborative vs. individual learning.

OBJECTIVE

In this article, we describe the rationale behind the implementation of student collaboration in the CASUS virtual patient platform.

METHODS

The SimpleWebRTC library of andYet was used to implement the collaborative tool. It provided a basis for the conferencing platform and could be adapted to include features such as video communication and screensharing. An additional text chat was created based on the message protocol of the SimpleWebRTC library. We implemented a user interface for educators to set up and configure the collaboration. Educators can configure video, audio, and text-based chat communication, which are known to promote effective learning.

RESULTS

We tested the tool in a sample of 137 students working on virtual patients. The study results indicate that students successfully diagnosed 53% (SD = 26%) of the patients when working alone and 71% (SD= 20%) when collaborating using the tool (p < .05, eta2=.12). A usability questionnaire for the study sample shows a usability score of 82.16 (SD = 1.31), a B+ grade.

CONCLUSIONS

The approach provides a technical framework for collaboration that can be used with the CASUS virtual patient system. Additionally, the application programming interface is generic, so that the setup can also be used with other learning management systems. The collaborative tool helps students diagnose virtual patients and results in a good overall usability of CASUS. Using learning analytics, we are able to track students’ progress in content knowledge and collaborative knowledge and guide them through a virtual patient curriculum designed to teach both. More broadly, the collaborative tool provides an array of new possibilities for researchers and educators alike to design courses, collaborative homework assignments, and research questions for collaborative learning.
User Experience of Mobile Personal Health Records for the Emergency Department: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kim Su Min , Kim Taerim , Cha Won Chul , Lee Jae-Ho , Kwon In Ho , Choi Yuri , Kim June-Sung
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Personal health records (PHRs) can be useful in the emergency department, as they provide patient information in an accurate and timely manner and enable it to be used actively. This has an effect on patients’ health outcomes and patient experience. Despite the importance of PHRs in emergencies, there are only a few studies related to PHRs in emergencies that evaluate patient experience.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to introduce the novel mobile PHR (mPHR) platform to emergency environments and assess user experience.

METHODS

The study was conducted from October 2019 to November 2019. In total, 1000 patients or carers in the emergency departments of 3 hospitals were provided an application-based service called FirstER, which was developed to collect and utilize medical information for patients in the emergency department. This study was performed as a mixed methods study. After using FirstER, we investigated its usability and conducted a survey on the experience of obtaining medical information with a legacy system and with FirstER. Additionally, we interviewed 24 patients to gain insight into their experiences regarding medical information using FirstER. For the quantitative analysis, the survey results were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation). For the qualitative analysis, we determined the keywords and their frequencies from each survey question and interview question.

RESULTS

In total, 1000 participants, consisting of both patients and carers, were recruited in this study. Their mean age was 41.4 (SD 13.3) years. We ascertained participants’ satisfaction with FirstER and their mPHR needs through a survey and an in-depth interview. With the current system, participants were not well aware of their health conditions and medical information, and they were passive in the use of their medical information and treatment. However, they wanted their medical information for several reasons, such as information sharing and managing their health conditions. FirstER provided participants with their needed information and an easy way to access it. The mean System Usability Scale (SUS) value was 67.1 (SD 13.8), which was considered very near to acceptable.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to implement mPHRs in the emergency department of large tertiary hospitals in the Republic of Korea. FirstER was found to enhance user experience in emergencies, as it provided necessary medical information and proper user experience. Moreover, the average SUS was 67.1, which means that participants found FirstER to be very near to acceptable. This is very encouraging in that FirstER was developed within a very short time, and it was a pilot study.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04180618; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04180618
The Hidden Pandemic of Family Violence During COVID-19: Unsupervised Learning of Tweets (Preprint)
Authors: Xue Jia , Chen Junxiang , Chen Chen , Hu Ran , Zhu Tingshao
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Family violence (including intimate partner violence/domestic violence, child abuse, and elder abuse) is a hidden pandemic happening alongside COVID-19. The rates of family violence are rising fast, and women and children are disproportionately affected and vulnerable during this time.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to provide a large-scale analysis of public discourse on family violence and the COVID-19 pandemic on Twitter.

METHODS

We analyzed over 1 million tweets related to family violence and COVID-19 from April 12 to July 16, 2020. We used the machine learning approach Latent Dirichlet Allocation and identified salient themes, topics, and representative tweets.

RESULTS

We extracted 9 themes from 1,015,874 tweets on family violence and the COVID-19 pandemic: (1) increased vulnerability: COVID-19 and family violence (eg, rising rates, increases in hotline calls, homicide); (2) types of family violence (eg, child abuse, domestic violence, sexual abuse); (3) forms of family violence (eg, physical aggression, coercive control); (4) risk factors linked to family violence (eg, alcohol abuse, financial constraints, guns, quarantine); (5) victims of family violence (eg, the LGBTQ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning] community, women, women of color, children); (6) social services for family violence (eg, hotlines, social workers, confidential services, shelters, funding); (7) law enforcement response (eg, 911 calls, police arrest, protective orders, abuse reports); (8) social movements and awareness (eg, support victims, raise awareness); and (9) domestic violence–related news (eg, Tara Reade, Melissa DeRosa).

CONCLUSIONS

This study overcomes limitations in the existing scholarship where data on the consequences of COVID-19 on family violence are lacking. We contribute to understanding family violence during the pandemic by providing surveillance via tweets. This is essential for identifying potentially useful policy programs that can offer targeted support for victims and survivors as we prepare for future outbreaks.