bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of minocycline on neuroinflammation, gut microbiome and hippocampal neurogenesis in rats with Gulf War Illness
Authors: Liu Liang , Wang Er-Qiang , Du Cheng , Chen Hui-Sheng , Lv Yan
Published: August 2020

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests that deficits in neurogenesis, chronic inflammation and gut microbiome dysregulation contribute to the pathophysiology of Gulf War Illness (GWI). Minocycline has been demonstrated to be a potent neuroprotective agent and could regulate neuroinflammation. The present study intended to investigate whether treatment of minocycline maintain better cognition and mood function in a rat model of GWI and the potential mechanism.
Methods

Rats received 28 days of GWI-related chemical exposure and restraint stress, along with daily minocycline or vehicle treatment. Cognitive and mood function, neuroinflammation, neurogenesis and gut microbiota were detected.
Results

We found that minocycline treatment induced better cognitive and mood function in a GWI rat model, as indicated by open-field test, elevated plus maze test, novel object recognition test and forced swim test. Moreover, minocycline treatment reversed the altered gut microbiome, neuroinflammation and the decreased hippocampal neurogenesis of rats with GWI.
Conclusion

Taken together, our study indicated that minocycline treatment exerts better cognitive and mood function in GWI rat model, which is possible related to gut microbiota remodeling, restrained inflammation and enhanced hippocampal neurogenesis. These results may establish minocycline a potential prophylactic or therapeutic agent for the treatment of GWI.
When will the Covid-19 Pandemic End?Levitt’s Metric on Indian Data
Authors: Raman Bhaskaran
Published: August 2020

When will the Covid-19 pandemic end? This paper seeks to answer this important question using the metric proposed by Michael Levitt in Mar 2020. We plot the metric for data corresponding to various Indian cities and states, and compare it with the plots for places like Italy and Spain, where the pandemic has “ended”. The projection is that Covid-19 deaths will become “insignificant”, by early Aug in Mumbai and Delhi. Similar projections can be made and are likely to be useful for other regions.
Diplopia from abducens nerve paresis as a presenting symptom of COVID-19: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Ben-David Geulah Sarah , Halachmi-Eyal Orly , Shyriaiev Hana , Brikman Shay , Dori Guy , Briscoe Daniel
Published: August 2020

Neurological manifestations of COVID-19 are not well understood. We report a case of a 44-year-old man who presented with fever, double vision, and headache and was subsequently diagnosed with COVID-19 and transient abducens nerve paresis. He did not present with any respiratory symptoms or additional specific neurological findings. We suggest that as the number of cases rises worldwide, physicians should have a greater index of suspicion for COVID-19 in patients with cranial neuropathies even in mild cases without typical respiratory symptoms.
SOX7 blocks vasculogenic mimicry in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hong Kyoung-Ok , Oh Kyu-Young , Yoon Hye-Jung , Swarup Neeti , Jung Minjung , Shin Ji-Ae , Kim Jung-Hwan , Lee Jae-Il , Cho Sung-Dae , Hong Seong-Doo
Published: August 2020

Background : Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is the formation of an alternative circulatory system by aggressive tumor cells. The characteristics of VM and its underlying mechanism in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remain unclear. This study aims to determine the relationship between VM channels in OSCC tissues and clinical outcomes and to investigate the biological role of SOX7 in VM in OSCC cells.

Methods : CD31/PAS double staining was performed to evaluate VM status in OSCC tissue. The relationships between VM and clinicopathological variables, and VM and SOX7 levels were analyzed. VM channel formation was assay performed to observe VM channels in the OSCC cell lines. To investigate the role of SOX7 in VM channel formation, SOX7 was transiently over-expressed in SCC-9 cells. VM-modulating genes were identified by Western blotting.

Results : We confirmed the presence of VM channels in OSCC tissue and several cell lines and found a positive correlation between VM and lymph node metastasis and patient survival in OSCC ( P = 0.003). We also found that the presence of VM channels in OSCC tissue was inversely associated with SOX7 expression ( P = 0.020). We observed that overexpression of SOX7 impaired VM channel formation by reducing the expression of VE-cadherin, thereby inhibiting cell migration and invasion.

Conclusion : These results suggest that SOX7 plays an important role in the regulation of VM channel formation and may inhibit OSCC metastasis.
Knowledge Management and its Effects on Financial Performance: Evidence from Dangote Flour Mills, Ilorin
Authors: Brimah Bolatito Amudat , Olanipekun Wahid Damilola , Bamidele Ayodeji Gbenga , Ibrahim Musa
Published: August 2020

This paper summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion on the issue of knowledge management and their impact on the financial performance of economic entities. It is determined that despite the key role of knowledge both for the development of the country (which in the 21st century is based mainly on knowledge) and to increase the value of the company, today companies do not fully use arrays of knowledge and data, which forms barriers to increase competitiveness in the strategic perspective. The main purpose of this study is to assess the impact of knowledge management on the financial performance of companies. Data for the study were obtained from a primary source based on a structured questionnaire with which Dangote Flourmills staff worked. The methodology of the work is a software product for statistical data processing – STATA 11, while the data analysis was performed on the basis of regression analysis, which was used to test hypotheses at the level of 5% significance. The analysis of the data confirmed the significance of the impact of all indicators of knowledge management on the financial performance of the economic entity. The results theoretically confirmed and empirically proved that strategic leadership, organizational culture, information, and communication technologies, effective human resource management practices have a significant impact on financial performance. This study concludes that knowledge management has a significant impact on the financial performance of businesses. The paper states that knowledge management activities help to focus the company’s management on the accumulation, storage, and use of knowledge to solve problems, dynamic learning, strategic planning, and making sound financial and economic decisions. The authors have formed the following recommendations: assistance from the management of the company to exchange knowledge, training and professional development; introduction of the latest digital technologies to improve communication and management mechanisms, based on the specifics, features, and needs of companies; ensuring and developing a corporate culture that allows you to balance and coordinate the actions of management policy. Keywords: knowledge management, human resources, strategic leadership, organizational culture, financial results of the company.
Interacting edge states of fermionic symmetry-protected topological phases in two dimensions
Authors: Sullivan Joseph , Cheng Meng
Published: August 2020

Recently, it has been found that there exist symmetry-protected
topological phases of fermions, which have no realizations in
non-interacting fermionic systems or bosonic models. We study the edge
states of such an intrinsically interacting fermionic SPT phase in two
spatial dimensions, protected by \mathbb{Z}_4\times\mathbb{Z}_2^\mathsf{T}ℤ4×ℤ2𝖳
symmetry. We model the edge Hilbert space by replacing the internal
\mathbb{Z}_4ℤ4
symmetry with a spatial translation symmetry, and design an exactly
solvable Hamiltonian for the edge model. We show that at low-energy the
edge can be described by a two-component Luttinger liquid, with
nontrivial symmetry transformations that can only be realized in
strongly interacting systems. We further demonstrate the
symmetry-protected gaplessness under various perturbations, and the
bulk-edge correspondence in the theory.
The economic benefits of reductions in nitrogen loads from stormwater runoff by street trees
Authors: Baptista Mariana D. , Amati Marco , Fletcher Tim D. , Burns Matthew J.
Published: August 2020

It is increasingly recognised that urban trees can contribute to reducing stormwater runoff by intercepting and retaining a fraction of rainfall received. What is less studied is the translation of this to reduced pollutant loads being transferred to receiving streams, rivers, and water bodies. In this paper, we assess interception of two tree species (Eucalyptus microcorys and Ulmus procera) in an urban park. These data are used in simple water balance modelling to predict the environmental and economic benefit of reducing nitrogen loads to receiving waterways as a function of reduced runoff volume resulting from rainfall interception by urban trees on public land (21% of the catchment area). We use a highly urbanized catchment in Melbourne, Australia to demonstrate the impact of an urban forest dominated by deciduous trees, evergreen trees or a mixed tree canopy cover. We found that doubling the urban canopy cover in the catchment, while keeping the current mix ratio of deciduous and evergreen trees, could reduce annual runoff volume by 30 mm (92 MLyr−1). Using the prescribed values that developers must pay the local water authority for nitrogen treatment as a condition of new development, we calculate that this would deliver a nitrogen load removal benefit of AUD$ 200/tree. If only deciduous trees are planted, the annual runoff reduction would decrease to 24 mm (73 MLyr−1) and increases to 37 mm (112 MLyr−1) if only evergreen trees are planted. This study highlights both the additional benefits of public street trees and the differences in deciduous and evergreen trees which should be accounted for by policy makers.
Expanding safe fecal sludge management in Kisumu, Kenya: an experimental comparison of latrine pit-emptying services
Authors: Peletz Rachel , Feng Andy , MacLeod Clara , Vernon Dianne , Wang Tim , Kones Joan , Delaire Caroline , Haji Salim , Khush Ranjiv
Published: August 2020

Most residents of Kisumu, Kenya, use latrines constructed over basic pits or attached to more durable concrete vaults and septic tanks. Only one-third of fecal sludge generated in the city, however, is safely collected and treated. Programs for improving fecal sludge management among poor households include the development of formal manual emptying organizations that are recognized by local authorities, employ safety procedures, and transport fecal sludge to a treatment site. In this study, we compared the financial structures of these organizations with those of vacuum trucks that primarily serve wealthier households. We also employed an incentives-based strategy to promote the expansion of safe pit-emptying services in a low-income area and compared the performance of three managing groups to coordinate these services: (1) The Association of Wastewater Managers (The Association); (2) a formal manual emptying organization; and (3) a community-based water supplier interested in coordinating emptying services. Vacuum trucks were more cost-effective than the formal manual emptying organization, and The Association was most efficient in servicing poor households. The Association also demonstrated the ability to service low-income areas comprehensively by delegating a fraction of jobs (11%) to formal manual emptiers in locations not serviceable by VTOs, and overall showed the highest potential to achieve pro-poor service delivery at scale.
4-Aminoquinoline-ferrocene Hybrids as Potential Antimalarials
Authors: Nqoro Xhamla , Aderibigbe Blessing A.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Malaria is a deadly disease. It is mostly treated using 4-
aminoquinoline derivatives such as chloroquine etc. because it is well-tolerated, displays
low toxicity, and after administration, it is rapidly absorbed. The combination of
4-aminoquinoline with other classes of antimalarial drugs has been reported to be an
effective approach for the treatment of malaria. Furthermore, some patents reported
hybrids 4-aminoquinolines containing ferrocene moiety with potent antimalarial activity.

Objective:

The objective of the current study is to prepare 4-aminoquinoline-ferrocene
hybrids via esterification and amidation reactions. The compounds were characterized via
FTIR, LC-MS and NMR spectroscopy. In vitro screening against chloroquine-sensitive
P. falciparum parasite (NF54) at concentrations (1 μM and 5 μM) and an inhibitory concentration
(full dose-response) was studied.

Methods:

The compounds were prepared via known reactions and monitored by Thin
Layer Chromatography. The compounds were purified by column chromatography and
characterized using FTIR, NMR and MS. In vitro antiplasmodial evaluation was performed
against asexual parasite and chloroquine was used as a reference drug.

Results:

The percentage inhibition effects of the hybrid compounds were in a range of
97.9-102% at 5 μM and 36-96% at 1 μM. Furthermore, the IC50 values of the compounds
were in the range of 0.7-1.6 μM when compared to the parent drug,
4-ferrocenylketobutanoic acid.

Conclusion:

The hybrid compounds displayed significant antimalarial activity when
compared to the parent drug. However, they were not as effective as chloroquine on the
drug-sensitive parasite. The findings revealed that 4-aminoquinolines and ferrocene are
potential scaffolds for developing potent antimalarials.
Efficiency of Intervention Counseling Program on the Enhanced Psychological Well-being and Reduced Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Among Syrian Women Refugee Survivors
Authors: Alsheikh Ali Ahmad Sa’ad Saleh
Published: August 2020

Background:

The number of individuals displaced from their original countries due to civil wars, hunger, disasters, and international wars is increasing worldwide day by day. These refugees are more vulnerable to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Objective:

The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the intervention program in improving the well-being and reducing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among a sample of Syrian refugee women in Jordan who had been displaced due to civil wars in Syria.

Methods:

The study recruited 40 Syrian refugee females in Jordan who were psychologically challenged, with high PTSD symptoms (assessed by PCL) and a psychological well-being impairment (assessed by PWD). The culture of Jordanian society discriminates and affects the Syrian refugee women, rendering them vulnerable to PTSD. Quasi-experimental design was used, wherein the participants were randomly distributed in experimental and control groups (n=20/group). The control group members did not receive any services related to psychological support or psychiatric medications, while the experimental group underwent a counseling program.

Results:

The present study demonstrated that the intervention program improves the well-being and reduces PTSD among the Syrian refugee women who constituted the experimental group. The intervention program and the PTSD manifestation were not affected by age. The present study recommended that the program be applied to the refugees in Jordan to improve the well-being of the women in the residential areas.

Conclusion:

Furthermore, an intervention on the Jordanian cultural impact on the refugee camps was also essential if the condition for the female refugees worsened. Lastly, the effect of Jordanian culture on Syrian refugees should be investigated since the literature presented a negative impact.
Mediterranean Diet and its Benefits on Health and Mental Health: A Literature Review
Authors: Ventriglio Antonio , Sancassiani Federica , Contu Maria Paola , Latorre Mariateresa , Di Slavatore Melanie , Fornaro Michele , Bhugra Dinesh
Published: August 2020

Mediterranean Diet (MD) is currently considered one of the most healthy dietary models worldwide. It is generally based on the daily intake of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish, white meats, and olive oil. It may also include moderate consumption of fermented dairy products, a low intake of red meat, and red/white wine during the main course. Even if the effect of MD on cancer prevention as well as on human metabolic and cardiovascular balance has been discussed, including the quality of life of the exposed population, the putative effects on mental health are still not properly investigated. This narrative review reports on some emerging pieces of evidence on the possible impact of MD on general health and the outcome of psychiatric disorders (e.g., major depression, anxiety) and encourages further studies to test the benefits of healthy food selection on the health of the general population.
Role of key point Mutations in Receptor Binding Domain of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein
Authors: Singh Bipin
Published: August 2020

The recent outbreak of novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2 or 2019-nCoV) and its worldwide
spread is posing one of the major threats to human health and the world economy. It has been
suggested that SARS-CoV-2 is similar to SARS-CoV based on the comparison of the genome sequence.
Despite the genomic similarity between SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV, the spike glycoprotein
and receptor binding domain in SARS-CoV-2 shows the considerable difference compared to
SARS-CoV, due to the presence of several point mutations. The analysis of receptor binding domain
(RBD) from recently published 3D structures of spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 (Yan,
R., et al. (2020); Wrapp, D., et al. (2020); Walls, A. C., et al. (2020)) highlights the contribution of
a few key point mutations in RBD of spike glycoprotein and molecular basis of its efficient binding
with human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).
Blaming the victim: Representation the victim of rape in M.F.A film
Authors: Indriyana Titik , Albab Choirul Ulil
Published: August 2020

The media in representing rape victims is still gender biased, such as blaming the victim. This study aims to find out how female victims of rape are shown in the M.F.A film by using semiotics to analyze the structure and ideology contained in the text. The theory used by researchers to analyze texts (M.F.A.) is the concept of radical feminism. The results of the research show in the M.F.A. film, women are shown as sexual objects of men. Women are represented as having to accept anything, including their fate when raped by men. They are not given the strength to resist and only accept it. Even in the eyes of the public and the law, women who are rape victims are still weak and are actually cornered (Blaming the Victim). Reports of rape are considered fabricated and have no strong evidence. In the film M.F.A. women who demanded their rights were silenced, by patriarchal ideologies. What's worse is the silence of a woman, because they have been hegemony in patriarchal ideologyMedia dalam merepresentasikan korban perkosaanmasih bias gender. Bahkan menyalahkan korban (Blaming The Victim). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana perempuan korban perkosaan ditampilkan dalam film M.F.A dengan menggunakan semiotika untuk menganalisis struktur dan ideologi yang terdapat di dalam teks. Konsep yang digunakan peneliti untuk menganalisis teks (Film M.F.A.) adalah feminisme radikal. Feminis radikal berpendapat, perempuan harus memiliki kendali atas tubuh mereka.Hasil penelitian menunjukkan dalam Film M.F.A., perempuan diperlihatkan sebagai objek seksual dari laki-laki. Perempuan direpresentasikan harus menerima apapun, termasuk nasibnya ketika diperkosa oleh laki-laki. Mereka tidak diberikan kekuatan untuk melawan dan hanya menerimanya. Di mata masyarakat dan hukum pun, perempuan korban perkosaan masih lemah dan justru disudutkan (Blaming the Victim). Laporan mengenai perkosaan dianggap mengada-ada dan tidak memiliki bukti yang kuat. Dalam Film M.F.A. perempuan yang menuntut hak-haknya dibungkam, oleh ideologi-ideologi patriarki. Yang lebih parah lagi adalah yang membungkam juga seorang perempuan, karena mereka telah terhegemoni ideologi patriarki.
Appendixs
Authors: Setiawan Benni
Published: August 2020

Appendixs
Morfometría de frutos y semillas del “ají mochero” Capsicum chinense Jacq.
Authors: López Medina Eloy , López Zabaleta Angélica , Gil Rivero Armando Efraín , Mostacero León José , De La Cruz Castillo Anthony J. , Villena Zapata Luigi
Published: August 2020

Capsicum chinense Jacq. “ají mochero” es catalogado como patrimonio gastronómico de Perú por su agradable grado de picor, que condimenta numerosos platos reconocidos internacionalmente. El boom gastronómico en Perú ha conllevado a la exportación de diferentes insumos nacionales, incluyendo el ají mochero, por lo que se requieren estudios agronómicos que brinden información sobre el estado productivo de los frutos y las semillas de este cultivo. El estudio buscó determinar la morfometría de los frutos y las semillas de C. chinense “ají mochero”. Para ello, se recolectaron frutos procedentes del distrito de Moche (provincia de Trujillo, departamento de La Libertad) y en el laboratorio se evaluó el peso del fruto y de la pulpa, así como las dimensiones y el número de semillas. Se realizó un análisis estadístico descriptivo con 50 repeticiones por cada componente evaluado. El peso promedio del fruto fue de 2,4 g y el peso promedio de la pulpa, de 2,1 g. La semilla registró una longitud promedio de 4,3 mm y un ancho promedio de 1,4 mm, y se reportaron 16,4 semillas por fruto. Se identificó un alto coeficiente de variación y una alta correlación (p < 0,01) entre los parámetros evaluados. Se concluyó que la morfometría de los frutos y las semillas de C. chinense “ají mochero” permite diferenciar esta de otras especies y variedades como C. annuum, C. baccatum, C. frutescens y C. pubescens. Esta información es primordial para promover su industrialización y fundamentar su denominación de origen.
Optimizing an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Microintervention Via a Mobile App With Two Cohorts: Protocol for Micro-Randomized Trials
Authors: Kroska Emily B , Hoel Sydney , Victory Amanda , Murphy Susan A , McInnis Melvin G , Stowe Zachary N , Cochran Amy
Published: August 2020

Background

Given gaps in the treatment of mental health, brief adaptive interventions have become a public health imperative. Transdiagnostic interventions may be particularly appropriate given high rates of medical comorbidity and the broader reach of transdiagnostic therapies. One such approach utilized herein is acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which is focused on increasing engagement with values, awareness, and openness to internal experiences. ACT theory posits that experiential avoidance is at the center of human suffering, regardless of diagnosis, and, as such, seeks to reduce unworkable experiential avoidance.

Objective

Our objective is to provide the rationale and protocol for examining the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of optimizing an ACT-based intervention via a mobile app among two disparate samples, which differ in sociodemographic characteristics and symptom profiles.

Methods

Twice each day, participants are prompted via a mobile app to complete assessments of mood and activity and are then randomly assigned to an ACT-based intervention or not. These interventions are questions regarding engagement with values, awareness, and openness to internal experiences. Participant responses are recorded. Analyses will examine completion of assessments, change in symptoms from baseline assessment, and proximal change in mood and activity. A primary outcome of interest is proximal change in activity (eg, form and function of behavior and energy consumed by avoidance and values-based behavior) following interventions as a function of time, symptoms, and behavior, where we hypothesize that participants will focus more energy on values-based behaviors. Analyses will be conducted using a weighted and centered least squares approach. Two samples will run concurrently to assess the capacity of optimizing mobile ACT in populations that differ widely in their clinical presentation and sociodemographic characteristics: individuals with bipolar disorder (n=30) and distressed first-generation college students (n=50).

Results

Recruitment began on September 10, 2019, for the bipolar sample and on October 5, 2019, for the college sample. Participation in the study began on October 18, 2019.

Conclusions

This study examines an ACT-based intervention among two disparate samples. Should ACT demonstrate feasibility and preliminary effectiveness in each sample, a large randomized controlled trial applying ACT across diagnoses and demographics would be indicated. The public health implications of such an approach may be far-reaching.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04098497; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04098497; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04081662; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04081662

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/17086
An Internet-Based Intervention Augmented With a Diet and Physical Activity Consultation to Decrease the Risk of Dementia in At-Risk Adults in a Primary Care Setting: Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Anstey Kaarin J , Cherbuin Nicolas , Kim Sarang , McMaster Mitchell , D'Este Catherine , Lautenschlager Nicola , Rebok George , McRae Ian , Torres Susan J , Cox Kay L , Pond Constance Dimity
Published: August 2020

Background

There is a need to develop interventions to reduce the risk of dementia in the community by addressing lifestyle factors and chronic diseases over the adult life course.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate a multidomain dementia risk reduction intervention, Body Brain Life in General Practice (BBL-GP), targeting at-risk adults in primary care.

Methods

A pragmatic, parallel, three-arm randomized trial involving 125 adults aged 18 years or older (86/125, 68.8% female) with a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2 or a chronic health condition recruited from general practices was conducted. The arms included (1) BBL-GP, a web-based intervention augmented with an in-person diet and physical activity consultation; (2) a single clinician–led group, Lifestyle Modification Program (LMP); and (3) a web-based control. The primary outcome was the Australian National University Alzheimer Disease Risk Index Short Form (ANU-ADRI-SF).

Results

Baseline assessments were conducted on 128 participants. A total of 125 participants were randomized to 3 groups (BBL-GP=42, LMP=41, and control=42). At immediate, week 18, week 36, and week 62 follow-ups, the completion rates were 43% (18/42), 57% (24/42), 48% (20/42), and 48% (20/42), respectively, for the BBL-GP group; 71% (29/41), 68% (28/41), 68% (28/41), and 51% (21/41), respectively, for the LMP group; and 62% (26/42), 69% (29/42), 60% (25/42), and 60% (25/42), respectively, for the control group. The primary outcome of the ANU-ADRI-SF score was lower for the BBL-GP group than the control group at all follow-ups. These comparisons were all significant at the 5% level for estimates adjusted for baseline differences (immediate: difference in means −3.86, 95% CI −6.81 to −0.90, P=.01; week 18: difference in means −4.05, 95% CI −6.81 to −1.28, P<.001; week 36: difference in means −4.99, 95% CI −8.04 to −1.94, P<.001; and week 62: difference in means −4.62, 95% CI −7.62 to −1.62, P<.001).

Conclusions

A web-based multidomain dementia risk reduction program augmented with allied health consultations administered within the general practice context can reduce dementia risk exposure for at least 15 months. This study was limited by a small sample size, and replication on a larger sample with longer follow-up will strengthen the results.

Trial Registration

Australian clinical trials registration number (ACTRN): 12616000868482; https://anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12616000868482.aspx.
Metabolic Syndrome Parameters, Determinants, and Biomarkers in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: Protocol for the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study on Metabolic Syndrome (Dutch LATER METS)
Authors: Pluimakers Vincent , Fiocco Marta , van Atteveld Jenneke , Hobbelink Monique , Bresters Dorine , Van Dulmen-den Broeder Eline , Van der Heiden-van der Loo Margriet , Janssens Geert O , Kremer Leontien , Loonen Jacqueline , Louwerens Marloes , Van der Pal Helena , Ronckers Cécile , Van Santen Hanneke , Versluys Birgitta , De Vries Andrica , Van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry , Neggers Sebastian
Published: August 2020

Background

Potential late effects of treatment for childhood cancer include adiposity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. These risk factors cluster together as metabolic syndrome and increase the risk for development of diabetes mellitus and cardio- and cerebrovascular disease. Knowledge on risk factors, timely diagnosis, and preventive strategies is of importance to prevent cardio- and cerebrovascular complications and improve quality of life. Currently, no national cohort studies on the prevalence and determinants of metabolic syndrome in childhood cancer survivors, including biomarkers and genetic predisposition, are available.

Objective

The objectives of the Dutch LATER METS study are to assess 1) the prevalence and risk factors of metabolic syndrome and its separate components, and 2) the potential diagnostic and predictive value of additional biomarkers for surveillance of metabolic syndrome in the national cohort of adult long-term survivors of childhood cancer.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study based on recruitment of all survivors treated in the Netherlands between 1963 and 2002. Metabolic syndrome will be classified according to the definitions of the third Adult Treatment Panel Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program as well as the Joint Interim Statement and compared to reference data. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scans were performed to assess body composition in more detail. The effect of patient characteristics, previous treatment, and genetic variation on the risk of metabolic syndrome will be assessed. The diagnostic and predictive value of novel biomarkers will be tested.

Results

Patient accrual started in 2016 and lasted until April 2020. A total of 2380 survivors from 7 pediatric oncology hospitals have participated. From July 2020, biomarker testing, single nucleotide polymorphism analysis, and data analysis will be performed.

Conclusions

The Dutch LATER METS study will provide knowledge on clinical and genetic determinants of metabolic syndrome and the diagnostic value of biomarkers in childhood cancer survivors. The results of this study will be used to optimize surveillance guidelines for metabolic syndrome in survivors based on enhanced risk stratification and screening strategies. This will improve diagnosis of metabolic syndrome and prevent complications.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/21256
Effect of an E-Learning Module on Personal Protective Equipment Proficiency Among Prehospital Personnel: Web-Based Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Suppan Laurent , Abbas Mohamed , Stuby Loric , Cottet Philippe , Larribau Robert , Golay Eric , Iten Anne , Harbarth Stephan , Gartner Birgit , Suppan Mélanie
Published: August 2020

Background

To avoid misuse of personal protective equipment (PPE), ensure health care workers’ safety, and avoid shortages, effective communication of up-to-date infection control guidelines is essential. As prehospital teams are particularly at risk of contamination given their challenging work environment, a specific gamified electronic learning (e-learning) module targeting this audience might provide significant advantages as it requires neither the presence of learners nor the repetitive use of equipment for demonstration.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a gamified e-learning module could improve the rate of adequate PPE choice by prehospital personnel in the context of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods

This was an individual-level randomized, controlled, quadruple-blind (investigators, participants, outcome assessors, and data analysts) closed web-based trial. All emergency prehospital personnel working in Geneva, Switzerland, were eligible for inclusion, and were invited to participate by email in April 2020. Participants were informed that the study aim was to assess their knowledge regarding PPE, and that they would be presented with both the guidelines and the e-learning module, though they were unaware that there were two different study paths. All participants first answered a preintervention quiz designed to establish their profile and baseline knowledge. The control group then accessed the guidelines before answering a second set of questions, and were then granted access to the e-learning module. The e-learning group was shown the e-learning module right after the guidelines and before answering the second set of questions.

Results

Of the 291 randomized participants, 176 (60.5%) completed the trial. There was no significant difference in baseline knowledge between groups. Though the baseline proportion of adequate PPE choice was high (75%, IQR 50%-75%), participants’ description of the donning sequence was in most cases incorrect. After either intervention, adequate choice of PPE increased significantly in both groups (P<.001). Though the median of the difference in the proportion of correct answers was slightly higher in the e-learning group (17%, IQR 8%-33% versus 8%, IQR 8%-33%), the difference was not statistically significant (P=.27). Confidence in the ability to use PPE was maintained in the e-learning group (P=.27) but significantly decreased in the control group (P=.04).

Conclusions

Among prehospital personnel with an already relatively high knowledge of and experience with PPE use, both web-based study paths increased the rate of adequate choice of PPE. There was no major added value of the gamified e-learning module apart from preserving participants' confidence in their ability to correctly use PPE.
The Role of Social Media in Enhancing Clinical Trial Recruitment: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Darmawan Ida , Bakker Caitlin , Brockman Tabetha A , Patten Christi A , Eder Milton
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Recruiting participants into clinical trials continues to be a challenge, which can result in study delay or termination. Recent studies have used social media to enhance recruitment outcomes. An assessment of the literature on the use of social media for this purpose is required.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to answer the following questions: (1) How is the use of social media, in combination with traditional approaches to enhance clinical trial recruitment and enrollment, represented in the literature? and (2) Do the data on recruitment and enrollment outcomes presented in the literature allow for comparison across studies?

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search across 7 platforms to identify clinical trials that combined social media and traditional methods to recruit patients. Study and participant characteristics, recruitment methods, and recruitment outcomes were evaluated and compared.

RESULTS

We identified 2371 titles and abstracts through our systematic search. Of these, we assessed 95 full papers and determined that 33 studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 17 studies reported enrollment outcomes, of which 9 achieved or exceeded their enrollment target. The proportion of participants enrolled from social media in these studies ranged from 0% to 49%. Across all 33 studies, the proportion of participants recruited and enrolled from social media varied greatly. A total of 9 studies reported higher enrollment rates from social media than any other methods, and 4 studies reported the lowest cost per enrolled participant from social media.

CONCLUSIONS

While the assessment of the use of social media to improve clinical trial participation is hindered by reporting inconsistencies, preliminary data suggest that social media can increase participation and reduce per-participant cost. The adoption of consistent standards for reporting recruitment and enrollment outcomes is required to advance our understanding and use of social media to support clinical trial success.
EFFECTIVNESS OF SPECIFIC MOBILE HEALTH APPLICATIONS (mHEALTH-APPS) IN GESTATIONAL DIABTETES MELLITUS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW (Preprint)
Authors: Eberle Claudia , Löhnert Maxine , Stichling Stefanie
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) emerges worldwide and is closely associated with short- and long-term health issues in women and their offspring, such as pregnancy and birth complications respectively comorbidities, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), metabolic syndrome as well as cardiovascular diseases. Against this background, mobile health applications (mHealth-Apps) do open up new possibilities to improve the management of GDM.

OBJECTIVE

Objective: To analyze the clinical effectiveness of specific mHealth-Apps on clinical health-related short and long-term outcomes in mother and child.

METHODS

Methods: A systematic literature search in Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science Core Collection databases as well as Google Scholar was performed. We selected studies published January 2008 to November 2020 analyzing women diagnosed with GDM using specific mHealth-Apps. Controlled clinical trials (CCT) and randomized controlled trials (RCT) were included. Study quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) tool.

RESULTS

Results: In total, n=6 publications (n=5 RCTs, n=1 CCT; and n=45 moderate, n=2 weak quality), analyzing n=408 GDM patients in the intervention and n=405 in the control groups, were included. Compared to control groups, fasting blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, off target blood glucose measurements, delivery mode
(more vaginal deliveries and fewer (emergency) caesarean sections) and patient compliance showed improving trends.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusion: mHealth-Apps might improve health-related outcomes, particularly glycemic control, in the management of GDM. Further studies need to be done in more detail.

CLINICALTRIAL
Erratum for Current Status of Poultry Meat Abnormalities
Authors: Baldi Giulia , Soglia Francesca , Petracci Massimiliano
Published: August 2020

This erratum corrects a minor error in the manuscript, "Current Status of Poultry Meat Abnormalities."
Curated Archiving of Research Software Artifacts: Lessons Learned from the French Open Archive (HAL)
Authors: Di Cosmo Roberto , Gruenpeter Morane , Marmol Bruno , Monteil Alain , Romary Laurent , Sadowska Jozefina
Published: August 2020

Software has become an indissociable support of technical and scientific knowledge. The preservation of this universal body of knowledge is as essential as preserving research articles and data sets. In the quest to make scientific results reproducible, and pass knowledge to future generations, we must preserve these three main pillars:  research articles that describe the results, the data sets used or produced, and the software that embodies the logic of the data transformation.
The collaboration between Software Heritage (SWH), the Center for Direct Scientific Communication (CCSD) and the scientific and technical information services (IES) of The French Institute for Research in Computer Science and Automation (Inria) has resulted in a specified moderation and curation workflow for research software artifacts deposited in the HAL the French global open access repository. The curation workflow was developed to help digital librarians and archivists handle this new and peculiar artifact - software source code. While implementing the workflow, a set of guidelines has emerged from the challenges and the solutions put in place to help all actors involved in the process.
VIAJE AL ORIENTE: VICENTE BLASCO IBÁÑEZ Y LA EXPERIENCIA DEL OTRO
Authors: Sekulić Mirjana
Published: August 2020

Se propone cuestionar cómo se construye el discurso sobre el otro, creando una determinada imagen de lo turco en los relatos de viajes El Oriente de Vicente Blasco Ibáñez. Siguiendo las pautas de la imagología, se analiza la construcción de las imágenes turcas entre las nociones de referencialidad e interpretación de la realidad por parte del autor. Se pone en cuestión el concepto de la mirada objetiva del viajero, la que se observa como el resultado del encuentro/choque entre los conocimientos anteriores, prejuicios y la percepción de lo inmediato. Se interpreta la imagen de Turquía en relación con la posición del extranjero, los privilegios de Blasco Ibáñez como viajero en Constantinopla, su empeño de conocer al otro, etc. Se observa que la imagen final de lo turco se crea en la interacción entre el viajero, representante de lo occidental, y el pueblo turco. Teniendo en cuenta los elementos analizados, llegamos a la conclusión de que, a pesar de que la intención del autor es combatir el discurso orientalista vigente en la Europa occidental a finales del siglo XIX y principios del siglo XX, sus artículos presentan una complejidad que debe ser revisada tomando en consideración tanto la voluntad del autor como las imágenes que son el resultado de la misma.
LES VALEURS SÉMANTIQUES ET PRAGMATIQUES DES TEMPS VERBAUX DANS LES PROVERBES ZOONIQUES FRANÇAIS ET SERBES
Authors: Jaćović Jelena , Jovanović Ivan
Published: August 2020

L’objet de cet article est de déterminer la fréquence et les spécificités des valeurs sémantiques et pragmatiques des temps verbaux dans un corpus des proverbes français et serbes. Le corpus est tiré des dictionnaires de référence parémiologique français et serbes (Montreynaud et al. 2006 ; Maloux 2006 ; Vigerie 2004 ; Karadžić 1985 ; Jovanović 2006) et vise les proverbes zooniques. Vu le fait que dans un corpus des proverbes le présent de l’indicatif et la valeur gnomique sont les plus fréquents, on s’attache à explorer les valeurs des temps passés. L’analyse sera menée dans le cadre des grammaires sémantiques (Charaudeau 1992 ; Piper 2005).
RÉVOLUTION ET UTOPIE DANS LE ROMAN LE SIÈCLE DES LUMIÈRES D'ALEJO CARPENTIER (1958) : LES ITINÉRAIRES D'UN DÉSENCHANTEMENT
Authors: Tatin-Gourier Jean-Jacques , Bogojević Dragan
Published: August 2020

Des répercussions de la Révolution française aux Caraïbes – abolition et restauration de l'esclavage – à la terreur de la France en révolution et à l'Espagne occupée par les troupes de Napoléon le couple de jumeaux que constituent Sofia et Esteban parcourt une à une les étapes d'une désillusion et d'un dépouillement absolus avant de disparaître à Madrid dans les hécatombes du Tres de Mayo dont Goya – constamment cité dans le roman – a été le grand témoin. Les chemins de l'utopie de la jeunesse et de l'espoir débouchent ainsi sur une apocalypse. En nous appuyant notamment sur les travaux de l'historien des imaginaires sociaux Bronislaw Baczko et en analysant plus précisément les mutations des personnages dans leur confrontation aux événements successifs, nous nous proposons de mettre en lumière cette dynamique de la désillusion.
INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITY ON MENTAL HEALTH
Authors: Arsović Nataša , Đurović Radmila , Rakočević Rada
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this narrative review is to investigate evidence for physical and sports activity affecting mental health. Knowledge about preemptive and treatment effects on achieving and maintaining an average level of physical abilities is considered nowadays to be a significant achievement of modern science. This knowledge has influenced the creation of various programs for the improvement of the holistic wealth of an individual. The accent is on the investigation of psychological benefits of exercising both in terms of prevention, and in treatment of stress, depression and anxiety. It is necessary to establish a parallel between the positive and negative influences of sports activity on mental health, and use of the individual approach in the way, attitude, motive, intensity and scope of recreational/sport activity. Regarding professional athletes, harmonization of physical and psychological preparation with adequate professional supervision is of great importance. Coordinated physical and psychological preparations can act positively on the attainment and achievement of goals, but also on the preservation and maintenance of mental health.
CHANGES IN SPEED, AGILITY AND BODY COMPOSITION OF TOP-RANKED FEMALE HANDBALL PLAYERS DURING THE PLAYING SEASON
Authors: Bojić Ivana , Stojiljković Nenad , Valdevit Zoran , Veličković Marina , Nikolić Dušan
Published: August 2020

Handball is a dynamic Olympic sport dominated by acyclic movements (sudden changes in direction, jumps, landings, contacts between the players, etc.) with speed and agility playing an important role in their successful realization. Our aim was to establish which changes occurred in the body composition, speed and agility of top-ranked female handball players during the playing season. The parameters for estimating body composition were: body mass, body mass index (BMI), the percentage of muscle and fat. The ability to achieve speed (in 5, 10 and 30m sprints) and agility (new envelope test without a ball, straight slalom run without a ball and Straight slalom run with a ball, zig-zag with and zig-zag without a ball) was estimated with the portable timing system. The differences between the initial and the final measurements were established with the Student’s t-test. The results obtained show that there were statistically significant changes and weaker results in almost all the tested variables. The only improvements were detected in the maximum speed in 30m sprint and the agility without a ball (new envelope test and slalom run without a ball). It is recommended that the training plan should be carefully devised (the activities of the high intensity load should be applied throughout the season) as well as the plan for proper sports nutrition (body mass should be reduced with simultaneous increase in the muscular mass component).
ANALYSIS OF LANDFILL GAS CONTRIBUTORY FACTORS IN SANITARY LANDFILLS
Authors: Nikolić Biljana , Milošević Lidija , Mihajlović Emina
Published: August 2020

Waste disposal is an element of integrated waste management. Properly designed projects for landfill construction ensure safe waste disposal with minimal environmental impact. The first part of this paper discusses and analyses waste management and landfills in Serbia. The second part describes the factors contributing to landfill gas (LFG) generation. The influence of several factors on LFG generation is shown on the basis of measurements of LFG components concentrations and of the analysed wastewater samples taken from “Pirot” Regional Sanitary Landfill. Depending on the contributory factors, provision of optimal conditions at the landfill accelerates waste decomposition, in turn producing larger quantities of LFG, with the ultimate goal of proper controlled LFG management. The paper presents guidelines for controlled LFG management, the implementation of which would automatically meet the requirements and recommendations of both domestic and European legislation.