bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene oxide composite membrane accelerates organic pollutant degradation by Shewanella bacteria
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhao Jun , Liu Bianhua , Yang Linlin , Han Guangmei , Yang Fan , Han Shuai , Wang Zhenyang , Zhang Zhongping
Published: July 2021

Degradation of various organic pollutants by bacteria has been proved to be an economical and environmentally friendly method. The key challenge in making these technologies widely available is their low degradation efficiency. Here, we report a composite membrane composed of graphene oxide and polyvinyl alcohol (GO-PVA) which can markedly enhance the efficiency and rate of Shewanella bacteria to degrade Congo red (CR). The degradation efficiency of Shewanella bacteria alone on CR solution was about 42% at 72 h. After the addition of the GO-PVA membrane, the degradation efficiency reached 91% at the degradation time at 36 h. The degradation efficiency of CR was increased by two times and the degradation rate was increased by four times in the presence of GO-PVA membrane and Shewanella bacteria compared to Shewanella bacteria alone. This indicates that the CR could be rapidly and completely degraded by increasing the input amounts of GO-PVA membrane in the process of Shewanella algae degradation of CR. Moreover, the GO-PVA membrane showed good recyclability and reusability. The biocatalysts performance of the GO-PVA membrane did not decrease after 10 cycles. Furthermore, the role of the GO-PVA membrane in the degradation process and the degradation products of CR were discussed.
Visual Analytics for Information Security: Areas of Application, Tasks, Visualization Models
Authors:   St. Petersburg Institute for Informatics and Automation of Russian Academy of Science, Kotenko Igor , Kolomeec Maxim ,   St. Petersburg Institute for Informatics and Automation of Russian Academy of Science, Zhernova Kseniia ,   St. Petersburg Institute for Informatics and Automation of Russian Academy of Science, Chechulin Andrey ,   St. Petersburg Institute for Informatics and Automation of Russian Academy of Science
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the article: to identify and systematize the areas and problems of information security that are solved using visual analytics methods, as well as analysis of the applied data visualization models and their properties that affect the perception of data by the operator. Research method: a systematic analysis of the application of visual analytics methods for solving information security problems. Analysis of relevant papers in the field of information security and data visualization. The objects of research are: theoretical and practical solutions to information security problems through visual analysis. Visual analytics in the article is considered from several sides: from the point of view of the areas of application of visual analysis methods in information security, from the point of view of the tasks solved by the security analyst, from the point of view of the visualization models used and the data structures used, as well as from the point of view of the properties of data visualization models. The result: classification of visualization models is proposed, which differs from analogs in that it is based on the analysis of areas and tasks of information security and comparison of visualization models to them. The scope of the proposed approach is the creation of visualization models that can be used to increase the efficiency of operator interaction with information security applications. The proposed article will be useful both for specialists who develop information security systems and for students studying in the direction of training “Information Security”.
Automation of the Process of Analysis of Security Threats in Cyber-Physical Systems
Authors:   Institute of Computer Technologies and Information Security, Southern Federal University, Basan Elena , Gritsynin Anton ,   Institute of Computer Technologies and Information Security, Southern Federal University, Shulika Maria ,   Institute of Computer Technologies and Information Security, Southern Federal University, Kryuchkov Vasily ,   Institute of Computer Technologies and Information Security, Southern Federal University
Published: July 2021

Purpose: development of a methodology for automating the process of analyzing security threats in cyberphysical systems, which is based on the study and analysis of the system architecture and possible risks of threat implementation, as well as the capabilities of the intruder. Method: the developed methodology is based on structuring information about the architectural features of cyberphysical systems. Structuring information and presenting it in the form of directories that are interconnected allows to determine the list of threats, vulnerabilities and attacks that are relevant to it based on structural and functional characteristics. When designing the database, an ontological approach was applied, which allows you to highlight concepts and their properties. Results: methodological recommendations for analyzing the security of cyber-physical systems have been developed, based on the study and assessment of vulnerabilities and security threats. The analysis of the structural and functional characteristics of the cyber-physical system is carried out and the main features from the point of view of information security are highlighted. Integration of new methods for assessing risks, identifying current threats, and developing effective recommendations for cyber-physical systems made it possible to create a knowledge base about threats, attacks, vulnerabilities of CPS. New threats to CPS have been identified, which are associated with their specific properties: mobility, use of wireless networks, location outside the controlled area. The result of the study is a product presented in the form of a knowledge base that allows you to determine the degree of threat of a threat for a given structural and functional characteristics of a cyber-physical system. Implemented automatic updating of information about vulnerabilities from open databases.
Method for Detecting and Identification of Tor Network Data by Wireshark Analyzer
Authors:   Institute of Computing Technologies and Information Security, South Federal University, Lapshichyov Vitaly , Makarevich Oleg ,   Institute of Computing Technologies and Information Security, South Federal University
Published: July 2021

Purpose of the study: development of a method that allows detecting and identifying packets of the Tor network, including obfuscated packets on the local machine of the network user, by a Wireshark sniffer using the filter syntax based on the features of the Tor network packets characteristic of the TLS v1.2 and v1.3 encryption versions; studying the possibility of using the SSL Bump attack (decrypting https traffic on a virtual server using self-signed x.509 certificates) to overcome the obfuscation of Tor network packets. Method: software analysis of transmitted network packets, decomposition of the contents of data packets according to their size and belonging to encryption protocols, a comparative method in relation to different versions of the encryption protocol and resources, synthesis of filtering rules based on the syntax of the analyzer was used. Results: an applied method was developed that allows detecting and identifying packets of the Tor Network, including obfuscated packets on the local machine of the network user, by a Wireshark sniffer based on the filtering syntax based on the signs of encryption packets of the TLS v1.2 and v1.3 versions; data on the impossibility of using the SSL Bump attack to overcome the obfuscation of the Tor network was obtained.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Tacrine Derivatives as Multifunctional Agents for Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Ahmed Ikram Baba , Kibou Zahira , Choukchou-Braham Noureddine
Published: July 2021

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative pathology. The first therapeutic strategy for the
treatment of AD was mainly acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) such as Tacrine; a linear
tricyclic compound that occupies an important place in the treatment of this disease with
its properties pharmacophore. In this regard, the development of tacrine-analogs more efficient
and safe with new measures and investigations has drawn immense attention. Various
structural modifications of Tacrine have been carried out on different parts. Mainly some
modification in the ring structure of tacrine or by connecting the amino group with different
hybrids based on natural or synthetic compounds and drugs already in existence. These
tacrine congeners have considerable potential for the development of new drugs for the treatment
of Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, this review presents an overview of the most important
structural modifications in tacrine rings based on the current trends reported in recent decades towards the use of
natural products and synthetic analogs as a source of new anti-Alzheimer drugs.
Overexpression of MRP3 in HeLa-UGT1A9 Cells Enhances Glucuronidation Capability of the Cells
Authors: Zhou Qiong , Xia Bijun , Yin Taijun , He Yu , Ye Ling , Hu Ming
Published: July 2021

Background:

The interplay between phase II enzymes and efflux transporters leads to extensive metabolism
and low systemic bioavailability of flavonoids.

Objective:

In this study, the dynamic interplay between multiple UGTs and multiple efflux transporters that occur
inside the cells was fully investigated.

Methods:

A new HeLa-UGT1A9-MRP3 cell was established to overexpress two dominant efflux transporters
MRP3 and BCRP, and two UGT isoforms UGT1A9 and UGT1A3. The metabolism and glucuronides excretion for
a model flavonoid genistein were determined in HeLa-UGT1A9-MRP3 cells and HeLa-UGT1A9-Con cells that
overexpressed one UGT (1A9) and one efflux transporter (BCRP).

Results:

The excretion rate grew nearly 6-fold, cellular clearance of glucuronides increased about 3-fold, and fraction
of genistein metabolized (fmet) increased (14%, p<0.01) in the new cells. Small interfering (siRNA)-mediated
MRP3 functional knockdown resulted in marked decreases in the excretion rates (26%-78%), intracellular amounts
(56%-93%), and cellular clearance (54%-96%) in both cells, but the magnitude of the differences in HeLa-
UGT1A9-Con cells was relatively small. Reductions in fmet values were similarly moderate (11%-14%). In contrast,
UGT1A9 knockdown with siRNA caused large decreases in the excretion rates (46%-88%), intracellular amounts
(80%-97%), cellular clearance (80%-98%) as well as fmet value (33%-43%, p<0.01) in both UGT1A9 cells. Comparisons
of the kinetic parameters and profiles of genistein glucuronidation as well as UGT mRNA expression suggest
that HeLa-UGT1A9-MRP3 has increased expression of both MRP3 and UGT1A3.

Conclusion:

The newly engineered HeLa-UGT1A9-MRP3 cells is an appropriate model to study the kinetic interplay
between multiple UGTs and efflux transporters, and a promising biosynthetic tool to obtain flavonoid glucuronides
of high purity.
Effects of Spices (Saffron, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric and Ginger) in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Seibel Raquel , Schneider Rodolfo H. , Gottlieb Maria G.V.
Published: July 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent dementia in the elderly, causing disability,
physical, psychological, social, and economic damage to the individual, their families, and caregivers.
Studies have shown some spices, such as saffron, rosemary, cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger,
have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that act in inhibiting the aggregation of
acetylcholinesterase and amyloid in AD. For this reason, spices have been studied as beneficial
sources against neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. In this sense, this study aims to present
a review of some spices (Saffron, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric and Ginger) and their bioactive
compounds, most consumed and investigated in the world regarding AD. In this article, scientific
evidence is compiled in clinical trials in adults, the elderly, animals, and in vitro, on properties considered
neuroprotective, having no or negative effects on neuroprotection of these spices and their
bioactive compounds. The importance of this issue is based on the pharmacological treatment for
AD that is still not very effective. In addition, the recommendations and prescriptions of these
spices are still permeated by questioning and lack of robust evidence of their effects on neurodegeneration.
The literature search suggests all spices included in this article have bioactive compounds
with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions associated with neuroprotection. To date, the
amounts of spice ingestion in humans are not uniform, and there is no consensus on its indication
and chronic consumption guarantees safety and efficacy in neuroprotection. Therefore, clinical evidence
on this topic is necessary to become a formal adjuvant treatment for AD.
Potential Mechanisms and Clinical Effectiveness of Acupuncture in
Depression
Authors: Yang Na-Na , Lin Lu-Lu , Li Yue-Jie , Li Hong-Ping , Cao Yan , Tan Chun-Xia , Hao Xiao-Wan , Ma Si-Ming , Wang Lu , Liu Cun-Zhi
Published: July 2021

:

Major depressive disorder is the most common mental disorder with significant economic
burden and limited treatments. Acupuncture has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological treatment
for reducing depressive symptoms. However, the potential mechanisms and clinical effectiveness
of acupuncture are not fully understood. This review aimed to: (1) summarize the available evidence
on the mechanisms and clinical effectiveness of acupuncture for depression, and then (2) compare with
pharmacological interventions, guiding future studies. Studies with animal models of depression and
patients have shown that acupuncture could increase hippocampal and network neuroplasticity and decrease
brain inflammation, potentially to alleviating depressive disorders. Overall clinical studies indicated
that acupuncture could relieve primary depression, particularly milder cases, and was helpful in
the management of post-stroke depression, pain-related depression, and postpartum depression both as
an isolated and adjunct treatment. It was emphasized that acupuncture combined with antidepressant
pharmacological treatment not only enhanced the improvement of primary and secondary depressive
symptoms but also reduced the side effects of the medical treatment, which is the main cause for high
dropout rates with drug treatment. In summary, substantial evidence from animal and human researches
supported the beneficial effect of acupuncture in depression. However, most clinical trials of acupuncture
were small, and it is unclear whether their findings can be generalized, so more studies are
needed.
Melatonin: a Potential Shield against Electromagnetic Waves
Authors: Lawand Nada , Jammoul Maya
Published: July 2021

:

Melatonin, a vital hormone synthesized by the pineal gland, has been implicated in various
physiological functions and circadian rhythm regulation. Its role in the protection against the
non-ionizing electromagnetic field (EMF), known to disrupt the body’s oxidative/anti-oxidative balance,
has been called into question due to inconsistent results observed across studies. This review
provides the current knowledge on the interwoven relationship between melatonin, EMF, and oxidative
stress. Based on synthesized evidence, we present a model that best describes the mechanisms
underlying the protective effects of melatonin against RF/ELF-EMF-induced oxidative stress. It has
been observed that the free radical scavenger activity of melatonin can be enabled by reducing the
radical pair singlet-triplet conversion rate and the concentration of the triplet products. Moreover,
this review aims to highlight the potential therapeutic benefits of melatonin against the detrimental
effects of EMF, in general, and electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), in particular.
Neurodevelopment Following Exposure to Antiseizure Medications in Utero: A Review
Authors: Bromley Rebecca L. , Bluett-Duncan Matthew
Published: July 2021

Exposure in the womb to antiseizure medications and their potential impact on the brain
of the developing child has long been researched. Despite this long period of interest, this review
highlights that above the well-known risks associated with valproate exposure, there are more data
required for conclusions regarding all other antiseizure medications. Limited experience with
phenytoin and phenobarbital in monotherapy makes clearly defining the risk to later child postnatal
functioning difficult, although the evidence of an impact is stronger for phenobarbital than for phenytoin.
The widely prescribed lamotrigine is limited in its investigation in comparison to unexposed
control children, and whilst it has been demonstrated to carry a lower risk than valproate for certain
outcomes, whether it is associated with a more moderate impact on wider aspects of neurodevelopmental
functioning is still to be understood. Data for levetiracetam, topiramate and oxcarbazepine
are too limited to confidently draw conclusions for most neurodevelopmental outcomes. This slow
accumulation of evidence impacts on the safest use of medications in pregnancy and makes counseling
women regarding the risks and benefits of specific antiseizure medications difficult. Improved
focus, funding, and research methodologies are urgently needed.
One-pot Synthesis of Novel Thiophene Containing Aminonaphthols using Fe3O4 Nanoparticles as a Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Pavale Ganesh , Ramana M.M.V. , Acharya Poornima , Shaikh Sarfaraz
Published: July 2021

Background:

Metal oxide itself and metal oxide nanoparticles are gaining significant
importance due to their reusability and wide range of catalytic applications in many organic transformations.

Objective:

This study aimed to report a simple and efficient Fe3O4catalyzed one-pot fivecomponent
reaction protocol for the synthesis of novel thiophene containing aminonaphthols under
solvent-free conditions.

Methods:

To prepare the Fe3O4 nanoparticles by facile and simple co-precipitation method, surface
characterization was done using FT-IR, XRD, BET, SEM, and TEM analysis techniques.
Aminonaphthol derivatives bearing thiophene moiety were synthesized using Fe3O4 nanoparticles
under solvent-free condition.

Results:

The prepared nanoparticles are smaller in size (15nm) and can be easily separated. They
can be recycled and reused five times without any significant loss of catalytic activity with excellent
yields in short time. The existing protocol for the synthesis of aminonaphthols becomes feasible
and attractive due to reusability of catalyst, excellent catalytic performance, and eco-friendly
procedure.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Fe3O4 nanoparticles provide a simple, efficient and greener one-pot
five component synthetic approach for the synthesis of thiophene containing aminonaphthols. Excellent
catalytic activity was perceived in short reaction time without any co-catalyst or any other
activator. Moreover, reusability of catalyst, high yields and environmentally benign solvent-free
condition are key factors of this protocol.
Effectiveness Analysis of Anaerobic Digestion Method in Making Biogas from Animal Manure and Tofu Liquid Waste
Authors: Arifan Fahmi , Abdullah Abdullah , Sumardiono Siswo
Published: July 2021

Organic waste has high COD and BOD content, so it is dangerous if disposed of directly into the environment. Organic waste processing, such as waste from livestock manure and liquid tofu waste, requires a process that can reduce COD and BOD levels as well as produce valuable products. Anaerobic digestion method is the proper process to convert complex compounds in waste into simpler compounds with methanogenic bacteria into a renewable energy product, namely biogas. On the other hand, the anaerobic digestion process can reduce COD and BOD levels in the biogas formation process. This study uses raw materials such as cow manure and chicken manure, and liquid tofu waste. The variables that produced the largest biogas were those with a ratio of 70% cow dung, 15% chicken manure, and 15% tofu liquid waste with a total of 3,251.5 mL. Then, the COD and BOD levels decreased significantly with more than 98% COD removal, and more than 95% BOD removal in all variables at the end of the anaerobic digestion process.
Characterization of Nanocomposite Casein-Chitosan with Addition TiO2 Toward Physical Stability, Emulsifying Activity Index, and Microstructure
Authors: Thohari Imam , Al-Awwaly Khothibul Umam , Apriliyani Mulia Winirsya
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this research was to determine the characteristic of physical properties and emulsifying activity index with different concentrations (0%, 1%, 3%, and 5% (v/v)) on the viscosity, solubility, turbidity, emulsifying activity index, and microstructure. The experiment was designed by Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The data were analyzed by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and continued by the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test. The addition of TiO2 with different concentrations gave a highly significant difference characteristic on syneresis, viscosity, solubility, turbidity, and emulsifying activity index (P<0.01) and the addition of TiO2 with different concentrations show the different effect on protein casein and chitosan aggregate. The surface microstructure of nanocomposite casein-chitosan addition of TiO2 for low-level concentration TiO2. It can be presumed presence of TiO2 as a photocatalyst indicated increasing the syneresis, viscosity, solubility, turbidity, and emulsifying activity index.
Antimicrobial Activity of Red Fruit (Pandanus conoideus Lam) Paste against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli in Burger Patties
Authors: Tharukliling Selvia , Radiati Lilik Eka , Thohari Imam , Susilo Agus
Published: July 2021

This study aims to determine the antimicrobial activity of red fruit paste against Staphylococcus aureus FNCC-0047 and Eschericia coli FNCC-0091 by using ethanol and n-hexane as well as the total plate count value of the patty with red fruit paste added on different observations day. The concentration of paste extract for antimicrobial activity test was 6.25%, 12.5%, 25%, 50%. The calculation of the total value of the burger patty plate is calculated on the 3rd, 7th and 14th d with the red fruit paste content in the formula as much as 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%. The results showed that the fatty acids of red fruit paste were dominated by oleic acid and linoleic acid, which are unsaturated fatty acids and palmitic acid, which are saturated fatty acids. The yield of red fruit paste in n-hexane solvent was higher than ethanol solvent. There was a significant difference (P <0.05) from the use of different solvents to the mean clear zone of the two bacteria tested. The antibacterial activity shown by the ethanol extract and n-hexane extract of red fruit paste was in the inactive category at the 6.12% level, the moderate category at the 12.5% to 25% level and the strong category at the 50% level. There was a significant difference (P <0.05) from the total microbial value in each treatment where the higher the red fruit paste content in the patty, the lower the total microbial value found on each d of observation. The use of red fruit paste at a level of 10% to 15% can withstand the rate of microbial growth
Microcrédito: opción de desarrollo
Authors: Calderón Salazar Jorge
Published: July 2021

En la Cumbre Mundial sobre Microcrédito realizada en Washington en 1997, se reconoce por primera vez la importancia del crédito a los pobres como instrumento de base para la lucha contra la pobreza; en esa cumbre se reunieron representantes de ONG`s, intermediarios financieros y empresas que operan en el sector social, grupos de base de países desarrollados y en desarrollo, agencias de Naciones Unidas, gobiernos nacionales e instituciones financieras internacionales. Los participantes de la cumbre concordaron en el objetivo que la provisión de crédito para promover el empleo y servicios financieros y comerciales alcanzara a cien millones de familias entre las más pobres para el 2005, involucrando especialmente las mujeres de estas familias. En dicha se concluyó que se necesitarían 21.6 mil millones de dólares para enfrentar a las demandas esperadas, los recursos necesarios para alcanzar este objetivo llegarían desde donantes e inversores, agencias gubernamentales, instituciones no gubernamentales, el sector público en general y los ahorros de los receptores de microcréditos y otros miembros de su comunidad (Comisión Económica para América Latina, 2002). Aquellas personas que no tienen capacidad de llevar a cabo actividades económicas debido a la carencia de habilidades personales o al grado de indigencia en que se encuentran, deban ser asistidos preferiblemente mediante otro tipo de programas sociales. Los programas de microcrédito tienen como población objetivo a la gente de escasos recursos que no tiene acceso a los préstamos que otorga la banca comercial o de otras instituciones públicas, pero a pesar de ello, estas personas tienen la capacidad de emprender actividades que eventualmente aumentarán su ingreso y conllevará una mejora en su calidad de vida, pudiendo cubrir necesidades que anteriormente no se encontraban satisfechas.
Ecuador y su futuro en el comercio internacional
Authors: Macas Acosta Guido Omar
Published: July 2021

El comercio exterior ecuatoriano se convirtió, en los últimos años, en uno de los principales generadores de oxígeno para todos los agentes económicos que producen bienes y servicios. Más aún cuando Ecuador empezó a utilizar la dolarización como su sistema monetario, perdiendo de esa manera uno de los instrumentos de política económica que más se usaba para incrementar las exportaciones, vías devaluaciones o emisión inorgánica de dinero. Por eso es necesario entender la brújula que sigue el sector externo y en especial la estructura de las exportaciones y de las importaciones que son las que determinan el saldo de la balanza comercial. Con el fin de descifrar porqué Ecuador concentra su oferta exportable en pocos productos y revisar qué efectos tuvo la política comercial en los últimos diez años.
Gestión del Talento Humano y nuevos escenarios laborales
Authors: Armas Ortega Yadira Mariuxi , Llanos Encalada Mónica del Pilar , Traverso Holguín Paola Alexandra
Published: July 2021

Este libro constituye un sutil aporte a la comprensión de los procesos y estrategias implícitos en la gestión humana, y es el resultado de los esfuerzos compartidos de las autoras. Hecho con amor, para el uso de estudiantes de la Universidad Tecnológica Ecotec de las carreras de Psicología, Gestión del Talento Humano y en general para todo estudiante, profesional y/o investigador del área. Teniendo presente que la visión de las personas al interior de las organizaciones o en los diferentes escenarios laborales, es integral e interdependiente de factores internos y externos concomitantes.
Las PYMES arroceras en el cantón Samborondón
Authors: León León Viviana Mercedes , Ron Amores Rafael Eduardo , Jaime Carriel Eliott Eduardo , Aguilera Peña Roberto Guillermo , León León Viviana Mercedes
Published: July 2021

Samborondón es un cantón, ubicado en la provincia costera del Guayas de la República del Ecuador, más de la tercera parte de su población se encuentra en el sector rural. Su principal actividad agrícola es el cultivo de arroz y se ha convertido en uno de los cantones de la provincia del Guayas con mayor superficie sembrada de esta gramínea. En este libro que se pone a disposición de los lectores, se presenta el estudio realizado por una estudiante y docentes de la Universidad Tecnológica ECOTEC, sobre el desempeño y el aporte a la economía de los pequeños y medianos productores de arroz del cantón Samborondón.
The Timing of Endoscopic Evaluation of Anti-TNFα Therapy Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors:   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan, Kashiwagi Hiroyuki , Ito Ayumi ,   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan, Kambayashi Harutaka ,   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan, Murasugi Shun ,   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan, Omori Teppei ,   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan, Yonezawa Maria ,   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan, Nakamura Shinichi ,   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan, Tokushige Katsutoshi ,   Departoment of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Women's Medical University. ‪8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
Published: July 2021

Anti-TNFα Therapy are used to induce remission and as maintenance therapy in refractory ulcerative colitis (UC) to achieve mucosal healing (MH). However, the time at which mucosal healing should be assessed is unclear. We retrospectively examined the optimal timing for colonoscopy and the criteria to determine the need for the continuation of treatment. We evaluated 44 UC patients that were treated with anti-TNFα Therapy and categorized them into the following groups according to the degree of MH within 12 months: MH and non-MH/NMH, early-MH (EMH, healing within three months), and slow MH/SMH (healing between 4-12 months). We compared the Mayo Endoscopic Subscore (MES) between the MH vs. NMH and SMH vs. NMH groups. The Lichtiger index and blood test results were investigated as predictive factors of MH. MH was defined as an MES of ≤ 1. The MES was significantly lower in the MH group at 3, 6, and 12 months, compared to the NMH group. Significant changes were observed in the platelet counts, the Lichtiger index, the levels of C-reactive protein (lower), and hemoglobin (higher) in the MH group at 3- and 6-months following treatment. However, the only significant difference between the SMH and NMH groups was in the endoscopic findings at 6- or 12-months post-treatment. Colonoscopy should be performed three months after treatment with anti-TNFα Therapy. The treatment should be continued in patients who do not achieve mucosal healing at 3-months, and colonoscopy should be repeated at 6- or 12-months to assess the outcomes.
Why the Quantum Brain?
Authors:   Independent Research Center, P.O. 710132, Andijan, Uzbekistan, Yurchenko Sergey B.
Published: July 2021

This article reviews the modern approaches to the quantum brain hypothesis. The aim is to consider the hypothesis and its classical brain-machine alternative from a broad perspective, including physics, biology, computer science, cosmology, and metaphysics. My starting point is that asking whether consciousness can or cannot have free will is fundamentally incorrect. This aspect is challenged by both physics and neuroscience. The paper argues that the search for conscious free will, as it is typically tested in Libet-type experiments, implies putting the cart before the horse. From the evolutionary perspective, a more correct question is this. Might primitive neural networks of simple organisms have possessed free volitional mechanisms (quantum in origin) as an extremely valuable acquisition for the flourishing of life? Might then the mechanisms have evolved from primary (rapid and random) reflexes in the oldest brain regions such as the brainstem to give rise to conscious cortex-centered properties in later stages of the brain evolution?
Promoting Physical Activity Through Conversational Agents: Mixed Methods Systematic Review
Authors: Luo Tiffany Christina , Aguilera Adrian , Lyles Courtney Rees , Figueroa Caroline Astrid
Published: July 2021

Background

Regular physical activity (PA) is crucial for well-being; however, healthy habits are difficult to create and maintain. Interventions delivered via conversational agents (eg, chatbots or virtual agents) are a novel and potentially accessible way to promote PA. Thus, it is important to understand the evolving landscape of research that uses conversational agents.

Objective

This mixed methods systematic review aims to summarize the usability and effectiveness of conversational agents in promoting PA, describe common theories and intervention components used, and identify areas for further development.

Methods

We conducted a mixed methods systematic review. We searched seven electronic databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, ACM Digital Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) for quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies that conveyed primary research on automated conversational agents designed to increase PA. The studies were independently screened, and their methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool by 2 reviewers. Data on intervention impact and effectiveness, treatment characteristics, and challenges were extracted and analyzed using parallel-results convergent synthesis and narrative summary.

Results

In total, 255 studies were identified, 7.8% (20) of which met our inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the studies was varied. Overall, conversational agents had moderate usability and feasibility. Those that were evaluated through randomized controlled trials were found to be effective in promoting PA. Common challenges facing interventions were repetitive program content, high attrition, technical issues, and safety and privacy concerns.

Conclusions

Conversational agents hold promise for PA interventions. However, there is a lack of rigorous research on long-term intervention effectiveness and patient safety. Future interventions should be based on evidence-informed theories and treatment approaches and should address users’ desires for program variety, natural language processing, delivery via mobile devices, and safety and privacy concerns.
Health Belief Model Perspective on the Control of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and the Promotion of Vaccination in China: Web-Based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Chen Hao , Li Xiaomei , Gao Junling , Liu Xiaoxi , Mao Yimeng , Wang Ruru , Zheng Pinpin , Xiao Qianyi , Jia Yingnan , Fu Hua , Dai Junming
Published: July 2021

Background

The control of vaccine hesitancy and the promotion of vaccination are key protective measures against COVID-19.

Objective

This study assesses the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy and the vaccination rate and examines the association between factors of the health belief model (HBM) and vaccination.

Methods

A convenience sample of 2531 valid participants from 31 provinces and autonomous regions of mainland China were enrolled in this online survey study from January 1 to 24, 2021. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the associations of the vaccination rate and HBM factors with the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy after other covariates were controlled.

Results

The prevalence of vaccine hesitancy was 44.3% (95% CI 42.3%-46.2%), and the vaccination rate was 10.4% (9.2%-11.6%). The factors that directly promoted vaccination behavior were a lack of vaccine hesitancy (odds ratio [OR] 7.75, 95% CI 5.03-11.93), agreement with recommendations from friends or family for vaccination (OR 3.11, 95% CI 1.75-5.52), and absence of perceived barriers to COVID-19 vaccination (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.35-0.75). The factors that were directly associated with a higher vaccine hesitancy rate were a high level of perceived barriers (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.36-1.95) and perceived benefits (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.32-0.79). A mediating effect of self-efficacy, influenced by perceived barriers (standardized structure coefficient [SSC]=−0.71, P<.001), perceived benefits (SSC=0.58, P<.001), agreement with recommendations from authorities (SSC=0.27, P<.001), and agreement with recommendations from friends or family (SSC=0.31, P<.001), was negatively associated with vaccination (SSC=−0.45, P<.001) via vaccine hesitancy (SSC=−0.32, P<.001).

Conclusions

It may be possible to increase the vaccination rate by reducing vaccine hesitancy and perceived barriers to vaccination and by encouraging volunteers to advocate for vaccination to their friends and family members. It is also important to reduce vaccine hesitancy by enhancing self-efficacy for vaccination, due to its crucial mediating function.
Leading Topics in Twitter Discourse on JUUL and Puff Bar Products: Content Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Allem Jon-Patrick , Dormanesh Allison , Majmundar Anuja , Rivera Vanessa , Chu Maya , Unger Jennifer B , Cruz Tess Boley
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

In response to the recent government restrictions, flavored JUUL products, which are rechargeable closed-system electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), are no longer available for sale. However, disposable closed-system products such as the flavored Puff Bar e-cigarette continues to be available. If e-cigarette consumers simply switch between products during the current government restrictions limited to 1 type of product over another, then such restrictions would be less effective. A step forward in this line of research is to understand how the public discusses these products by examining discourse referencing both Puff Bar and JUUL in the same conversation. Twitter data provide ample opportunity to capture such early trends that could be used to help public health researchers stay abreast of the rapidly changing e-cigarette marketplace.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to examine public discourse referencing both Puff Bar and JUUL products in the same conversation on Twitter.

METHODS

We collected data from Twitter’s streaming application programming interface between July 16, 2019, and August 29, 2020, which included both “Puff Bar” and “JUUL” (n=2632). We then used an inductive approach to become familiar with the data and generate a codebook to identify common themes. Saturation was determined to be reached with 10 themes.

RESULTS

Posts often mentioned flavors, dual use, design features, youth use, health risks, switching 1 product for the other, price, confusion over the differences between products, longevity of the products, and nicotine concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

On examining the public’s conversations about Puff Bar and JUUL products on Twitter, having described themes in posts, this study aimed to help the tobacco control community stay informed about 2 popular e-cigarette products with different device features, which can be potentially substituted for one another. Future health communication campaigns may consider targeting the health consequences of using multiple e-cigarette products or dual use to reduce exposure to high levels of nicotine among younger populations.
Building on Lessons Learned in a Mobile Intervention to Reduce Pain and Improve Health (MORPH): Protocol for the MORPH-II Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Fanning Jason , Brooks Amber K , Hsieh Katherine L , Kershner Kyle , Furlipa Joy , Nicklas Barbara J , Rejeski W Jack
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Engaging in sufficient levels of physical activity, guarding against sustained sitting, and maintaining a healthy body weight represent important lifestyle strategies for managing older adults’ chronic pain. Our first Mobile Health Intervention to Reduce Pain and Improve Health (MORPH) randomized pilot study demonstrated that a partially remote group-mediated diet and daylong activity intervention (ie, a focus on moving often throughout the day) can lead to improved physical function, weight loss, less pain intensity, and fewer minutes of sedentary time. We also identified unique delivery challenges that limited the program’s scalability and potential efficacy.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the MORPH-II randomized pilot study is to refine the MORPH intervention package based on feedback from MORPH and evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of this revised package prior to conducting a larger clinical trial.

METHODS

The MORPH-II study is an iteration on MORPH designed to pilot a refined framework, enhance scalability through fully remote delivery, and increase uptake of the daylong movement protocol through revised education content and additional personalized remote coaching. Older, obese, and low-active adults with chronic multisite pain (n=30) will be randomly assigned to receive a 12-week remote group-mediated physical activity and dietary weight loss intervention followed by a 12-week maintenance period or a control condition. Those in the intervention condition will partake in weekly social cognitive theory–based group meetings via teleconference software plus one-on-one support calls on a tapered schedule. They will also engage with a tablet application paired with a wearable activity monitor and smart scale designed to provide ongoing social and behavioral support throughout the week. Those in the control group will receive only the self-monitoring tools.

RESULTS

Recruitment is ongoing as of January 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings from MORPH-II will help guide other researchers working to intervene on sedentary behavior through frequent movement in older adults with chronic pain.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04655001; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04655001

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/29013
Medication Optimization Among People With Type 2 Diabetes Participating in a Continuous Glucose Monitoring–Driven Virtual Care Program: Prospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Majithia Amit R , Erani David M , Kusiak Coco M , Layne Jennifer E , Lee Amy Armento , Colangelo Francis R , Romanelli Robert J , Robertson Scott , Brown Shayla M , Dixon Ronald F , Zisser Howard
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

The Onduo virtual care program for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) includes a mobile app, remote lifestyle coaching, connected devices, and telemedicine consultations with endocrinologists for medication management and prescription of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (RT-CGM) devices. In a previously described 4-month prospective study of this program, adults with T2D and baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥8.0% to ≤12.0% experienced a mean HbA1c decrease of 1.6% with no significant increase in hypoglycemia.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this analysis was to evaluate medication optimization and management in the 4-month prospective T2D study.

METHODS

Study participants received at least 1 telemedicine consultation with an Onduo endocrinologist for diabetes medication management and used RT-CGM intermittently to guide therapy and dosing. Medication changes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 55 participants, 48 (87%) had a medication change consisting of a dose change, addition, or discontinuation. Of these, 15 (31%) participants had a net increase in number of diabetes medication classes from baseline. Mean time to first medication change for these participants was 36 days. The percentage of participants taking a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist increased from 25% (12/48) to 56% (n=27), while the percentages of participants taking a sulfonylurea or dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor decreased from 56% (n=27) to 33% (n=16) and 17% (n=8) to 6% (n=3), respectively. Prescriptions of other antidiabetic medication classes including insulin did not change significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

The Onduo virtual care program can play an important role in providing timely access to guideline-based diabetes management medications and technologies for people with T2D.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03865381; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03865381
Deep Semi-Supervised Learning for Automatic Segmentation of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Using a Convolutional Neural Network (Preprint)
Authors: Lim Ho-Kyung , Jung Seok-Ki , Kim Seung-Hyun , Cho Yongwon , Song In-Seok
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

The inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) innervates and regulates the sensation of the mandibular teeth and lower lip. The position of the IAN should be monitored during surgery to prevent damage. Therefore, a study using artificial intelligence (AI) was planned to image and track the position of the IAN automatically for a quicker and safer surgery.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we segmented the precise position of the IAN using AI. The accuracy of this technique was evaluated by comparing the position with the position manually specified by a specialist, and segmentation accuracy and annotation efficiency were found to be improved with learning.

METHODS

A total of 138 cone-beam computed tomography datasets (Internal: 98, External: 40) collected from multiple centers (three hospitals) were used in the study. A customized 3D nnU-Net was used for image segmentation. Active learning, which consists of three steps, was carried out in iterations for 83 datasets with cumulative additions after each step. Subsequently, the accuracy of the model for IAN segmentation was evaluated using the residual dataset. We compared the accuracy by deriving the dice similarity coefficient (DSC) value and the segmentation time for each learning step. In addition, visual scoring was considered to comparatively evaluate the manual and automatic segmentation.

RESULTS

After learning, the DSC gradually increased to 0.48 ± 0.11 to 0.50 ± 0.11, and 0.58 ± 0.08. The DSC for the external dataset was 0.49 ± 0.12. The times required for segmentation were 124.8, 143.4, and 86.4 s, showing a large decrease at the final stage. In visual scoring, the accuracy of manual segmentation was found to be higher than that of automatic segmentation.

CONCLUSIONS

The deep active learning framework can serve as a fast, accurate, and robust clinical tool for demarcating IAN location.
Gender Parity in Cabinets
Authors: Rouillard Carol-Ann , Lalancette Mireille
Published: July 2021

This article focuses on the media coverage of gender parity in cabinets in Canada and three of its provinces. It paints a portrait of the Canadian discourse on women's political representation issues and reveals the way in which the arguments put forward focus both on the ideal of parity and on the rules for its implementation, gender quotas. The study is based on an argumentative analysis of the media discourse (Amossy, 2018) of ten cabinets. Our results show that media coverage is generally favorable, although counterarguments are more numerous when the novelty of parity has faded. Analysis of the results at the premium of media coverage provides a better understanding of how media coverage could influence political parties and their leaders to appoint more women to cabinet.