bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction Models and Scores in Pulmonary Hypertension: A Review
Authors: Mouratoglou Sophia Anastasia , Bayoumy Ahmed A. , Noordegraaf Anton Vonk
Published: November 2020

Background::

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious disease with increased morbidity
and mortality. The need for an individualized patient treatment approach necessitates the use of risk assessment
in PAH patients. That may include a range of hemodynamic, clinical, imaging and biochemical parameters derived
from clinical studies and registry data.

Objective::

In the current systematic review, we summarize the available data on risk prognostic models and
scores in PAH and we explore the possible concordance amongst different risk stratification tools in PAH.

Methods::

PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines aided
the performance of this systematic review. Eligible studies were identified through a literature search in the
electronic databases PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Cochrane with the use of various combinations
of MeSH and non-MeSH terms, with a focus on PAH.

Results::

Overall, 25 studies were included in the systematic review; out of them, 9 were studies deriving prognostic
equations and risk scores and 16 were validating studies of an existing score. The majority of risk stratification
scores use hemodynamic data for the assessment of prognosis, while others also include clinical and
demographic variables in their equations. The risk discrimination in the overall PAH population was adequate,
especially in differentiating the low versus high-risk patients, but their discrimination ability in the intermediate
groups remained lower. Current ESC/ERS proposed risk stratification score utilizes a limited number of parameters
with prognostic significance, whose prognostic ability has been validated in European patient populations.

Conclusion::

Despite improvement in risk estimation of prognostic tools of the disease, PAH morbidity and
mortality remain high, necessitating the need for the risk scores to undergo periodic re-evaluation and refinements
to incorporate new data into predictors of disease progression and mortality and, thereby, maintain their
clinical utility.
Marine Bioactive Peptides in Supplements and Functional Foods - A Commercial Perspective
Authors: Whitaker Ragnhild Dragøy , Altintzoglou Themis , Lian Kjersti , Fernandez Estefania Noriega
Published: November 2020

Many bioactive peptides have been described from marine sources and much marine biomass is still
not explored or utilized in products. Marine peptides can be developed into a variety of products, and there is a
significant interest in the use of bioactive peptides from marine sources for nutraceuticals or functional foods.
We present here a mini-review collecting the knowledge about the value chain of bioactive peptides from
marine sources used in nutraceuticals and functional foods. Many reports describe bioactive peptides from
marine sources, but in order to make these available to the consumers in commercial products, it is important to
connect the bioactivities associated with these peptides to commercial opportunities and possibilities. In this
mini-review, we present challenges and opportunities for the commercial use of bioactive peptides in nutraceuticals
and functional food products. We start the paper by introducing approaches for isolation and identification
of bioactive peptides and candidates for functional foods. We further discuss market-driven innovation targeted
to ensure that isolated peptides and suggested products are marketable and acceptable by targeted consumers.
To increase the commercial potential and ensure the sustainability of the identified bioactive peptides and products,
we discuss scalability, regulatory frameworks, production possibilities and the shift towards greener technologies.
Finally, we discuss some commercial products from marine peptides within the functional food market.
We discuss the placement of these products in the larger picture of the commercial sphere of functional
food products from bioactive peptides.
Synthetic Studies towards Fungal glycosides: An Overview
Authors: Hussain Hidayat , Ali Iftikhar , Elizbit  , Hussain Wahid , Mamadalieva Nilufar Z. , Hussain Amjad , Ali Maroof , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Ullah Izhar , Green Ivan R.
Published: November 2020

Fungi have provided intriguing chemical diversity and have additionally proven to
be a tremendous source for a great variety of therapeutic molecules. Various fungal glycosides
have been reported from fungi and the majority of these metabolites possess cytotoxic and
antimicrobial effects. Although natural products are obtained in most cases in small amounts
from the specific natural source, total syntheses of these valuable commodities remain one of
the most important ways of obtaining them on a large scale for more detailed and comprehensive
biological studies. In addition, the total synthesis of secondary metabolites is a useful
tool, not only for the disclosure of novel complex pharmacologically active molecules but also
for the establishment of cutting-edge methodologies in synthetic chemistry. Numerous fungal
glycosides have been synthesized in the last four decades regarding the following natural
product classes viz., tetramic acid glycosides (epicoccamides A and D), polyketide glycosides (TMC-151C), 2-pyrone
glycosides (epipyrone A), diterpene glycosides (sordarin), depside glycosides (CRM646-A and –B, KS-501 and KS-
502), caloporosides (caloporoside A), glycolipids (emmyguyacins A and B, acremomannolipin A), and cerebrosides
(cerebroside B, Asperamide B, phalluside-1, Sch II). The current literature review about fungal glycoside synthetic
studies is, therefore, of interest for a wide range of scientists and researchers in the field of organic, natural product,
and medicinal chemists as it outlines key strategies of fungal glycosides and, in particular, glycosylation, the known
biological and pharmacological effects of these natural compounds have afforded a new dimension of exposure.
Injectable In-Situ Forming Depot of Doxycycline Hyclate/α-Cyclodextrin Complex Using PLGA for Periodontitis Treatment: Preparation, Characterization, and In-Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Khodaverdi Elham , Eisvand Farhad , Nezami Mohammad Sina , Shiadeh Seyedeh Nesa Rezaeian , Kamali Hossein , Hadizadeh Farzin
Published: November 2020

Background:

Doxycycline (DOX) is used in treating a bacterial infection, especially for
periodontitis treatment.

Objective:

To reduce irritation of DOX for subgingival administration and increase the chemical
stability and against enzymatic, the complex of α-cyclodextrin with DOX was prepared and loaded
into injectable in situ forming implant based on PLGA.

Methods:

FTIR, molecular docking studies, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry
was performed to characterize the DOX/α-cyclodextrin complex. Finally, the in-vitro drug release
and modeling, morphological properties, and cellular cytotoxic effects were also evaluated.

Results::

The stability of DOX was improved with complex than pure DOX. The main advantage of
the complex is the almost complete release (96.31 ± 2.56 %) of the drug within 14 days of the implant,
whereas in the formulation containing the pure DOX and the physical mixture the DOX with
α-cyclodextrin release is reached to 70.18 ± 3.61 % and 77.03 ± 3.56 %, respectively. This trend is
due to elevate of DOX stability in the DOX/ α-cyclodextrin complex form within PLGA implant
that confirmed by the results of stability.

Conclusion::

Our results were indicative that the formulation containing DOX/α-cyclodextrin complex
was biocompatible and sustained-release with minimum initial burst release.
Mechanism of Toll-like Receptor 4 on Chronic Post-thoracotomy Pain Via Caspase-1 Activation
Authors: Hu Zhonghua , Liao Juan , Zhang Fan , Qing Wenxiang , Yu Rili , Liao Qin
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Post-operative chronic post-thoracotomy pain (CPTP) has been linked to restrictions
in mobility and daily activities. However, its potential causes and optimal therapy have
not been well characterized. Here, the purpose of this study was to investigate the role of Toll-like
receptor 4 (TLR4) in CPTP rats and its underlying mechanism.

Methods:

Initially, rat models of CPTP were established. Then, the mechanical withdrawal threshold
(MWT) was measured after intrathecal injection of TLR4 antagonist (LPS-RS), TLR4 agonist
(LPS-PG), or caspase-1 inhibitor (Ac-YVAD-CMK) in CPTP rats. Levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and
IL-1β in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH) were measured by ELISA. TLR4 and caspase-1 were located
by immunofluorescence double staining. TLR4 and caspase-1 levels were assessed by qRT-PCR
and Western blot.

Results:

TLR4 and caspase-1 were up-regulated in SDH of CPTP rats. Compared with Sham and
non-CPTP groups, MWT was effectively decreased while TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in SDH were increased
in CPTP group. Moreover, intrathecal injection of TLR4 antagonist or caspase-1 inhibitor
significantly elevated MWT expression and reduced levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in SDH. Additionally,
high expression of TLR4 promoted mechanical hyperalgesia and inflammatory response,
while intrathecal injection of a mixture of caspase-1 inhibitor and TLR4 agonist reversed
the alleviation of caspase-1 inhibitor on the mechanical hyperalgesia and inflammatory response.
TLR4 and caspase-1 were co-located in neurons.

Conclusion:

TLR4 aggravated CPTP in rats by mediating activation of caspase-1 in SDH.
Autophagy Inhibition Preserves Tight Junction of Human Cerebral Microvascular Endothelium Under Oxygen Glucose Deprivation
Authors: Wang Shuyan , Xu Jihong , Xi Jin , Grothusen John R. , Liu Renyu
Published: November 2020

Aims::

To investigate the role of autophagy in the tight junction of human brain endothelial
cells during hypoxia and ischemia.

Background::

Endothelial cells play an important role in the initiation, progression and recovery
from ischemic stroke. The role of autophagy on human brain endothelial cells (HBECs) subjected
to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) is not fully elucidated.

Objective::

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of autophagy on HBECs during
OGD.

Methods::

HBECs were cultured in a 96-well plate and underwent 4 hours of OGD. For drug treatment,
3-Methyladenine (3-MA) (5mmol/L), an inhibitor of autophagy, was added at the start of
OGD. Cell viability and cytotoxicity were tested by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and lactate dehydrogenase
(LDH) assays. Morphological changes in cells were examined by immunofluorescence
microscopy. The protein expression of light chain 3 (LC3) was measured. Autophagosomes and endothelial
cell tight junctions were observed using transmission electron microscopy.

Results::

The results showed that OGD induced serious damage to HBECs. Cell viability was decreased
significantly and LDH release increased significantly (p<0.05) following OGD. 3-MA protected
HBECs from damage. Immunostaining further confirmed these results. Since 3-MA is an inhibitor
of autophagy, we chose to examine alterations in the amount of LC3, a marker of autophagy.
The ratios of LC3-II to LC3-I were significantly lower in the 3-MA treated OGD group than in
the non-3-MA treated OGD group (p<0.05). Electron microscopy showed that 3-MA inhibited the
formation of autophagolysosomes and revealed that the tight junction ultrastructure of HBECs,
which was destroyed by OGD, was significantly protected by treatment with 3-MA.

Conclusions::

Autophagy is a key response to oxygen-glucose deprivation stress and its detrimental
effects are closely related to the destruction of tight junctions of human brain endothelial cells.
Strategies to inhibit autophagy could help to preserve tight junctions.
Cardioprotective Effects of Natural Products via the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tavakoli Rasool , Tabeshpour Jamshid , Asili Javad , Shakeri Abolfazl , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: November 2020

Due to its poor regenerative capacity, the heart is specifically vulnerable to xenobiotic-
induced cardiotoxicity, myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury and other pathologies. Nuclear
factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is considered as an essential factor in protecting cardiomyocytes
against oxidative stress resulting from free radicals and reactive oxygen species. It also
serves as a key regulator of antioxidant enzyme expression via the antioxidant response element,
a cis-regulatory element, which is found in the promoter region of several genes encoding detoxification
enzymes and cytoprotective proteins. It has been reported that a variety of natural products
are capable of activating Nrf2 expression, and in this way, increase the antioxidant potential of cardiomyocytes.
In the present review, we consider the cardioprotective activities of natural products
and their possible therapeutic potential.
Sonication Assisted One-Pot Synthesis of Substituted Imidazopyridine from Styrene in Water
Authors: Gaikwad Sanjay Subhas , Thorat Nitin Madhu , Patil Limbraj Rajaram
Published: November 2020

The present protocol is a simple and eco-friendly approach for the one-pot procedure for the synthesis
of substituted imidazopyridines ranging from important feedstock’s like styrene promoted by NBS. Through sonicator
and microwave commercially available styrene with NBS in water followed by reaction with 2-
aminopyridines afforded important heterocyclic scaffolds in an one-pot procedure.
Anti-oxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Mongolian Medicinal Plant Extracts and Structure Isolation of Gnetin-H Compound
Authors: Nyamsambuu Altannavch , Ahmed Ashfaque , Khusbu Farjana Yeasmin , Oidovsambuu Sarangerel , Khan Md. Asaduzzaman , Zhou Xi , Fu Jun-jiang , Chen Han-Chun
Published: November 2020

Background:

Reactive oxygen species are involved in the etiology and progress of many
kinds of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders.
Epidemiological studies reported that fruits, vegetables, and wines containing a high percentage
of phenolics and flavonoids showed a positive impact in treating inflammatory diseases, reducing
cancer risk, and increasing life expectancy.

Objective:

Some Mongolian medicinal plants were studied for their antioxidant activity and anticancer
effects.

Methods:

Selected Mongolian medicinal plant extracts were examined for their antioxidant activity
by the DPPH-radical scavenging assay, the content of phenolics and flavonoids by Folin-Ciocalteu
and the Dowd method, respectively, and anti-cancer activities in human hepatoma cell line HepG2
cells by MTT assay.

Results:

Methanol extract from Hippophae rhamnoides L. leaf and ethanol extract from Artemisia
macrocephala Jacq. ex Bess. showed the highest efficiency to scavenge free radicals. Ethanol extracts
from Hippophae rhamnoides L. grain and Paeonio anomala L. leaf showed the highest total phenolics
content, whereas Hippophae rhamnoides L. fruit methanol extract and ethanol extract from Caragana
leucophloea pojark. mentioned the highest flavonoids content. The Artemisia macrocephala
Jacq. ex Bess seed wallet and Paeonia anomala L. seed wallet showed the most potent antiproliferative
effects against human liver cancer HepG2 cell line. Gnetin-H compound was isolated from the
Paeonio anomala L. seed wallet extract, and its molecular structure was determined by 1H and 13C
NMR spectrum and IR spectroscopy methods.

Conclusion:

The screening study on anti-oxidative effects of 21 extracts from 15 Mongolian medicinal
plants showed anti-oxidative activities and was rich in phenolics and flavonoids. Among these,
methanol extract of the Hippophae rhamnoides L. leaf showed a better anti-oxidative effect than the
ethanol extract. Artemisia macrocephala Jacq. ex Bess and Paeonia anomala L. seed wallet mentioned
the best anti-cancer effects. Gnetin-H, methyl gallate, ethylgallate were the major components
in the extract from the Paeonio anomala L. seed wallet. Finally, the molecular structure of gnetin-H
was determined by NMR and IR spectroscopy. Further investigation, especially in vivo antioxidant
activity, is needed to justify the use of a natural source of antioxidants to prevent the progression of
diseases such as cancer.
Exploring the Selectivity Profile of Sigma Receptor Ligands by Molecular Docking and Pharmacophore Analyses
Authors: Righetti Giada , Tonelli Michele , Fossa Paola , Cichero Elena
Published: November 2020

Background:

Sigma receptors (Rs), initially classified as an additional class of opioid
receptors, are now recognized as a unique entity with no homology to opioid receptors divided into
two distinct subtypes, namely σ1R and σ2R. σ1R-targeting ligands have been conceived and explored
for the treatment of various neurodegenerative disorders and neuropathic pain. Activation of the σ2R
appears to be involved in the regulation of cellular proliferation and cell death.

Objective:

Up to now, the rational design of novel σ1R ligands was efficiently guided by computational
methods, especially relying on homology modeling studies. Conversely, the limited number of
in silico studies was applied in the search of σ2R-targeting compounds. Herein we explored several
series of σ1R ligands, by computational methods, featuring variable selectivity profile towards σ1R
and σ2R in order to gain useful information guiding the rational design of more selective ligands.

Methods:

Based on the recent X-ray crystallographic structure of the human σ1R, in-depth molecular
docking studies on different series of σR ligands have been performed. These calculations have been
followed by molecular dynamic simulations (MD) and two pharmacophore analyses, taking into account
the activity levels towards σ1R and σ2R.

Results:

Structure-based studies revealed key contacts to be achieved in order to guide selectivity of
σ1R-targeting compounds while the two pharmacophore models described the main features turning
into effective σ1R or σ2R ligands.

Conclusion:

The applied computational approach allowed a more comprehensive exploration of the
structure-activity relationship (SAR) within the herein analyzed σR ligands, deriving useful guidelines
for the rational design of more selective compounds.
Efficacy and Safety of EGFR Inhibitors in the Treatment of EGFRPositive NSCLC Patients: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dang Amit , Dang Sumit , Vallish B.N.
Published: November 2020

Background::

We compared the response rates, survival rates, and safety profile of epidermal growth factor
receptor (EGFR) inhibitors with non-targeted chemotherapy and older EGFR inhibitors when used to treat advanced nonsmall
cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with activating EGFR mutations.

Methods::

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and clinicaltrial.gov for randomized
controlled trials published until 11-Feb-2020. Treatment outcomes were compared between EGFR inhibitor and pooled
comparator; a subgroup analysis compared outcomes between EGFR inhibitor and non-targeted chemotherapy, and
between newer and older EGFR inhibitors.

Results::

Twenty-one studies with 4,250 unique patients were included. Significantly higher objective
response rate (ORR) (odds ratio (OR) 2.28; 95% CI 2.00-2.61), higher disease control rate (DCR)
(OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.88-3.06), and longer progression-free survival (PFS) (Hazard ratio (HR)
0.56; 95% CI 0.52-0.60) were observed in the EGFR inhibitor group compared to the pooled comparator
group. Subgroup analysis revealed that the ORR, DCR, and PFS were significantly higher
with EGFR inhibitors than non-targeted chemotherapy, and only PFS (and not ORR and DCR) was
significantly longer with newer EGFR inhibitors than the older EGFR inhibitors. Overall survival
(OS) was not significantly different between EGFR inhibitors and pooled comparator (HR 0.91;
95% CI 0.83-1.00) as well as in either of the subgroup analyses. Adverse events ≥ grade 3 and treatment
discontinuation were significantly higher with non-targeted chemotherapy compared to the
EGFR inhibitors.

Conclusions::

The benefits of prolongations of ORR, DCR, and PFS might not imply significantly improved OS after
therapy with EGFR inhibitors when compared with non-targeted chemotherapy or older EGFR inhibitors.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of KW-2449 on Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: An Experimental Study on Mice
Authors: Ahmadabad Hasan N. , Abbaspour Allireza , Panahi Yaser , Tahmasebi Saeed , Hossein-Khannazer Nikoo , Afraei Sanaz , Miladi Hosein , Goudarzvand Mahdi , Kamali Ali N. , Bagheri Yasser , Yazdani Reza , Di Fiore Maria M. , Azizi Gholamreza
Published: November 2020

Background:

The KW-2449 is a novel multikinase inhibitor that inhibits FLT3, ABL,
ABL-T315I, and Aurora A. FLT3 and Aurora A kinases play an important role in the pathogenesis
of multiple sclerosis (MS). KW-2449 could modulate immune cells, but the immunomodulatory effects
of KW-2449 on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) have not been investigated
yet. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of KW-2449 on EAE mouse model.

Methods:

In this study, C57BL/6 EAE mice were orally treated with (10 mg/kg/day) KW-2449 solution
and compared with EAE and control mice. Following the treatment, histological analyses
were performed on the brain and cerebellum to evaluate the pathological score. The gene expression
levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and chemokine (C-C motif)
ligand 2 (CCL2) were measured using qRT-PCR. The serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, CCL-2 and
MMP-2 were determined by using quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results:

The results indicated that the clinical score, the infiltration of inflammatory cells and the
demyelination in EAE mice treated with KW-2449 decreased significantly compared to control
groups. KW-2449 also decreased TNF-α, IL-6, CCL-2 inflammatory cytokines, and MMP-2 in
both brain mRNA expressions and serum levels of EAE mice.

Conclusion:

The KW-2449, aging as a multi-kinase inhibitor, modulates the inflammatory responses
of cytokine cascades either in the brain or in plasma and reduces EAE pathogenesis manifestation.
El Antropoceno en Raimon Panikkar: Ecosofía
Authors: Testón Turiel Juan Antonio
Published: November 2020

Panikkar, na sua extensa produção filosófica, também estudou a questão da ecologia, revelando uma preocupação profunda com o impacto que a ação humana estava a ter no planeta Terra. A sua visão filosófica e espiritual levou-o a superar a ecologia tal como é entendida hoje em dia, substituindo-a pelo seu conceito de Ecosofia, que seria uma visão da sabedoria espiritual da terra com características religiosas e espirituais. Apesar de Panikkar não ter abordado a questão do Antropoceno no seu pensamento, a Ecosofia pode ter implicações para a releitura do conceito. A nova sensibilidade que Panikkar tem sobre a Terra é proposta na sua novena ecosófica. A sua aplicação pode ter consequências filosóficas, políticas e espirituais. Tudo isso, juntamente com a sua visão cosmoteândrica da realidade, pode levar a um Antropoceno espiritual, a um Antropoceno místico e a um Antropoceno religioso, o que significaria uma releitura do próprio conceito do Antropoceno.
No princípio era a Natureza: percursos da Ecocrítica
Authors: Mendes Maria do Carmo
Published: November 2020

A Ecocrítica representa um novo paradigma nos Estudos Literários. Este ensaio tem como principais propósitos: 1) Reconstruir o percurso da Ecocrítica, desde a sua institucionalização na década de 1990 até à atualidade; 2) Pôr em evidência a relevância de estudos literários sobre o ambiente; 3) Identificar a natureza multidisciplinar da Ecocrítica e as suas tendências atuais e futuras.
eHealth Practices in Cancer Survivors With BMI in Overweight or Obese Categories: Latent Class Analysis Study
Authors: Lin Annie Wen , Baik Sharon H , Aaby David , Tello Leslie , Linville Twila , Alshurafa Nabil , Spring Bonnie
Published: November 2020

Background

eHealth technologies have been found to facilitate health-promoting practices among cancer survivors with BMI in overweight or obese categories; however, little is known about their engagement with eHealth to promote weight management and facilitate patient-clinician communication.

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine whether eHealth use was associated with sociodemographic characteristics, as well as medical history and experiences (ie, patient-related factors) among cancer survivors with BMI in overweight or obese categories.

Methods

Data were analyzed from a nationally representative cross-sectional survey (National Cancer Institute’s Health Information National Trends Survey). Latent class analysis was used to derive distinct classes among cancer survivors based on sociodemographic characteristics, medical attributes, and medical experiences. Logistic regression was used to examine whether class membership was associated with different eHealth practices.

Results

Three distinct classes of cancer survivors with BMI in overweight or obese categories emerged: younger with no comorbidities, younger with comorbidities, and older with comorbidities. Compared to the other classes, the younger with comorbidities class had the highest probability of identifying as female (73%) and Hispanic (46%) and feeling that clinicians did not address their concerns (75%). The older with comorbidities class was 6.5 times more likely than the younger with comorbidities class to share eHealth data with a clinician (odds ratio [OR] 6.53, 95% CI 1.08-39.43). In contrast, the younger with no comorbidities class had a higher likelihood of using a computer to look for health information (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.10-3.38), using an electronic device to track progress toward a health-related goal (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.08-3.79), and using the internet to watch health-related YouTube videos (OR 2.70, 95% CI 1.52-4.81) than the older with comorbidities class.

Conclusions

Class membership was associated with different patterns of eHealth engagement, indicating the importance of tailored digital strategies for delivering effective care. Future eHealth weight loss interventions should investigate strategies to engage younger cancer survivors with comorbidities and address racial and ethnic disparities in eHealth use.
People’s Experiences and Satisfaction With Telehealth During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Australia: Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Isautier Jennifer MJ , Copp Tessa , Ayre Julie , Cvejic Erin , Meyerowitz-Katz Gideon , Batcup Carys , Bonner Carissa , Dodd Rachael , Nickel Brooke , Pickles Kristen , Cornell Samuel , Dakin Thomas , McCaffery Kirsten J
Published: November 2020

Background

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has rapidly been adopted to deliver health care services around the world. To date, studies have not compared people’s experiences with telehealth services during the pandemic in Australia to their experiences with traditional in-person visits.

Objective

This study aimed to compare participants’ perceptions of telehealth consults to their perceptions of traditional in-person visits and investigate whether people believe that telehealth services would be useful after the pandemic.

Methods

A national, cross-sectional, community survey was conducted between June 5 and June 12, 2020 in Australia. In total, 1369 participants who were aged ≥18 years and lived in Australia were recruited via targeted advertisements on social media (ie, Facebook and Instagram). Participants responded to survey questions about their telehealth experience, which included a free-text response option. A generalized linear model was used to estimate the adjusted relative risks of having a poorer telehealth experience than a traditional in-person visit experience. Content analysis was performed to determine the reasons why telehealth experiences were worse than traditional in-person visit experiences.

Results

Of the 596 telehealth users, the majority of respondents (n=369, 61.9%) stated that their telehealth experience was “just as good as” or “better than” their traditional in-person medical appointment experience. On average, respondents perceived that telehealth would be moderately useful to very useful for medical appointments after the COVID-19 pandemic ends (mean 3.67, SD 1.1). Being male (P=.007), having a history of both depression and anxiety (P=.016), and lower patient activation scores (ie, individuals’ willingness to take on the role of managing their health/health care) (P=.036) were significantly associated with a poor telehealth experience. In total, 6 overarching themes were identified from free-text responses for why participants’ telehealth experiences were poorer than their traditional in-person medical appointment experiences, as follows: communication is not as effective, limitations with technology, issues with obtaining prescriptions and pathology results, reduced confidence in their doctor, additional burden for complex care, and inability to be physically examined.

Conclusions

Based on our sample’s responses, telehealth appointment experiences were comparable to traditional in-person medical appointment experiences. Telehealth may be worthwhile as a mode of health care delivery while the pandemic continues, and it may continue to be worthwhile after the pandemic.
Restriction of Technical Capabilities, Public Investment and Human Development: A Panel Results Analysis for Local Governments of the Department of Ayacucho in Peru, 2010-2012
Authors: Hojjat Tahereh Alavi , Morocho Ruiz Juan Daniel , Cánova Humberto Correa
Published: November 2020

The present research work analyzes the contribution of the restriction of technical capacities to the level of human development registered in the local governments of Ayacucho during the period 2010-2012. This paper is testing to evaluate if during 2010-2012 period, the reduction of human development levels of the local governments of the department of Ayacucho is due to the restriction of technical capacities that limit the execution of public investment at the local level. In particular, the results obtained support the research hypothesis that during the reference period, the expenditure of the local governments of the department of Ayacucho is mainly limited by two factors: first, the restriction of technical capacities in municipal policy and management; and second, the strategic planning. These two factors in turn, reduce the execution of public investment by 9.32% and 6.12%, respectively. Likewise, this capacity restriction contributes to a reduction in the execution of public investment by 8.35%. Additionally, it is found that, although the impact of public investment on human development at the local level is positive, in terms of magnitude, it is relatively minor, as shown in the empirical work carried out by Correa & Morocho (2015). Finally, it is found that during the period 2010-2012, the technical capacity constraints in municipal policy and management, plus lack of appropriate strategic planning, reduced the Human Development Index (HDI) of the local governments of Ayacucho by 0.10%, 0.06% and 0.08%, respectively.
The cost–effectiveness of low-dose budesonide as a Step 2 treatment for pediatric asthma in China
Authors: Wang Xiaoling , Fang Honghao , Shen Kunling , Liu Tianyi , Xie Jipan , Liu Yuantao , Zhong Jia , Wu Eric , Zhou Wei , Wu Bin
Published: November 2020

Aim:To compare the cost–effectiveness of low-dose budesonide versus montelukast among patients aged 1–5 years from a Chinese patient and healthcare payer perspective.Materials & methods:A Markov model based on exacerbation states was developed. Exacerbation was defined as the need for rescue therapy (mild exacerbation) or hoscopitalization (moderate-to-severe exacerbation). Inputs including efficacy (i.e., exacerbation rates), mortality, utilities, costs and treatment adherence were obtained from literature.Results:Compared with montelukast, low-dose budesonide led to fewer exacerbation events (1.44 vs 2.15), lower costs (¥3675 vs 4130) and slightly more quality-adjusted life years (0.974 vs 0.967) over 1 year.Conclusion:These findings may improve the use of low-dose budesonide, an economically and clinically preferable treatment to montelukast in pediatric patients.
Применение алгоритмов машинного зрения для автоматического измерения микротвердости по Виккерсу
Authors: Федоткин А.П. , Лактионов И.В. , Гладких Е.В. , Кравчук К.С.
Published: November 2020

Продемонстрированы возможности современных алгоритмов машинного зрения анализировать отпечатки, полученные на отечественном микротвердомере "НаноСкан-HV". Подтверждена возможность автоматизации процедуры измерения микротвердости для широкого круга исследуемых материалов.
Optimization of Energy Storage in Hybrid Wind and Photovoltaic Energy Systems
Authors: Abdali L. M. , Al-Rufaee F. M. , Yakimovich B. A. , Kuvshinov V. V.
Published: November 2020

Возобновляемые источники энергии играют незаменимую роль в отдаленных районах, где электросеть недоступна. Гибридная система, предлагаемая в этой статье, включает в себя два возобновляемых источника энергии, а именно: фотоэлектрические системы, ветряные турбины. Комбинация этих энергий для удовлетворения требований к нагрузке с надежным, экономичным и устойчивым энергоснабжением считается критической проблемой. Гибридные системы считаются наиболее прагматичным решением для удаленных районов за пределами сети.Предлагается новый метод определения оптимального размера накопления энергии в фотоэлектрических и ветряных гибридных системах генерации энергии. Эти компоненты размещены в схеме из трех блоков для прогнозирования, измерения и распределения (управления) потоками мощности во всей системе для удовлетворения требований стороны спроса. Данные о мощности электрической нагрузки, мощности солнечного излучения, температуре окружающей среды, скорости ветра и других погодных условиях должны прогнозироваться с высокой точностью. Алгоритм определения оптимального размера разработан на основе данных прогнозирования, ограничений, соотношения величин во всей системе и способности заряжать/разряжать энергию накопления. Оптимальный размер в этом исследовании помогает переупорядочить диаграммы нагрузки, которые полностью компенсируют дефицит энергии на этапах с высоким и средним уровнями цен.Данный подход может быть применен на каждой шине, чтобы уменьшить стоимость покупки электричества от электрической системы. Новое предложение иллюстрируется результатами моделирования в тематическом исследовании, проведенном в MATLAB 2019a.
Developing AL-ARQ Module for Automatic Measurement of One-Way Data Transmission Delay
Authors: Lamri M. A. , Kaisina I. A. , Vasiliev D. S. , Chunaev A. V. , Abilov A. V.
Published: November 2020

В мобильных самоорганизующихся сетях часто наблюдаются задержки при передаче потоковых данных и снижение QoS. В статье представлен разработанный модуль для измерения задержки и джиттера. Модуль встроен в программу автоматического запроса повторной передачи прикладного уровня (AL-ARQ). Для оценки эффективности работы модуля была собрана сеть, состоящая из узла-источника (микрокомпьютер RaspberryPi) и узла-получателя (ноутбук HP). С узла-источника отправлялось потоковое видео к узлу-получа­телю с использованием беспроводного стандарта 802.11g. Для синхронизации времени между устройствами применялся NTP-сервер.Результаты эксперимента показали эффективность предложенного модуля для измерения задержки и джиттера при передаче потоковых данных. При исследовании работы модуля было выявлено, что механизмы повторной передачи AL-ARQ влияют как на максимальное значение задержек при передаче, так и на среднее значение за время всей передачи. Был сделан вывод, что снижению уровня задержек и общему улучшению QoS может способствовать адаптивный буфер.
Development of Information-Control Interface for Communication of Spacecraft Units
Authors: Yankovoy M. N. , Markaryan L. V.
Published: November 2020

Представлена разработка протокола простой и надежной передачи данных для блока управления антенной в жестких условиях эксплуатации. Логический уровень протокола реализован на ПЛИС на базе протокола HDLC. Физическая линия передачи данных представляет резервированный, гальваноразвязанный интерфейс с биполярным самосинхронизирующимся кодом Manchester-II.Актуальность разработки протокола обусловлена внедрением отечественной элементной базы, устойчивой к жестким воздействиям окружающей среды, в том числе и радиации, и степенью важности развития космической отрасли в целом, а также сфер, зависящих от нее.Рассмотрено назначение блока управления антенной. Обоснована необходимость разработки протокола информационно-управляющего сопряжения для блока управления. Проведен обзор научно-технической информации о составляющих данного протокола. Рассмотрены физический, канальный и информационный уровни разработанного протокола, а также представлена реализация канального и информационного уровня на языке Verilog HDL для ПЛИС.В программе Quartus-II разработан программный код, который реализует канальный и информационный уровни передачи данных на основе протокола информационно-управляющего сопряжения блока управления антенной с блоком-вычислителем. После чего из отдельных блоков кода формируется схемотехнический проект, где для блоков задаются входные и выходные сигналы.Моделирование протокола передачи данных проведено в среде для отладки ModelSim-Altera, а также на отработочной плате. Моделирование подтвердило правильность выбранных решений в процессе создания протокола передачи данных. На заданную команду получена верная ответная квитанция с двумя байтами контрольной суммы. Переданные данные равны принятым данным, и контрольная сумма при приеме и передаче равны друг другу.Материал, представленный в данной научной статье, может быть принят разработчиками за основу реализации обмена данными между техническими устройствами, для которых остро стоит вопрос экономии ресурсов ПЛИС.
Low-level laser therapy effectiveness in patients with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Miletic Ana , Todorovic Ana , Djordjevic Igor , Lazic Vojkan , Stamenkovic Dejan , Matanovic Dragana
Published: November 2020

Introduction/Objective. Low-level laser therapy has been suggested as an alternative pain relief therapy in temporomandibular disorder patients. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of low-level laser therapy on reducing pain intensity in temporomandibular disorder patients, compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Methods. A total of 63 patients diagnosed with Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders were divided into two groups. In the first group of 35 patients, low-level laser therapy was applied three times a week, 15 treatment sessions during five weeks (wavelength: 780 nm; power density: 70 mW/ cm2; radiant energy: 4.2 J; energy density: 4.2 J/cm2; total treatment dose: 16.8 J/cm2). The second group included 28 participants subjected to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs therapy (ibuprofen) during two weeks (first three days 3 ? 400 mg, remaining time 2 ? 400 mg per day). Pain was evaluated using 100 mm visual analog scale, at the baseline, during therapy, two weeks and three months after treatments. Results. Statistically significant reduction of pain intensity was achieved in both low-level laser therapy and in nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs therapy groups and remained steady in the follow-up period of three months (p < 0.01). Differences in visual analog scale scores between the observed groups were not statistically significant in each of the evaluation periods, (p = 0.375, p = 0.665, p = 0.52, respectively). Conclusion. The low-level laser therapy protocol applied in this research was efficient in reducing pain in patients with temporomandibular disorders.
Multinucleated giant cells in adipose tissue are specialized in adipocyte degradation
Authors: Admin Ada , Braune Julia , Lindhorst Andreas , Fröba Janine , Hobusch Constance , Kovacs Peter , Blüher Matthias , Eilers Jens , Bechmann Ingo , Gericke Martin
Published: November 2020

Obesity is associated with a chronic low-grade inflammation in visceral
adipose tissue (AT) characterized by an increasing number of adipose tissue
macrophages (ATMs) and linked to type 2 diabetes. AT inflammation is
histologically indicated by the formation of so-called crown-like structures
(CLS), as accumulation of ATMs around dying adipocytes, and the occurrence of
multi-nucleated giant cells (MGCs). However to date, the function of MGCs in
obesity is unknown. Hence, the aim of this study was to characterize MGCs in AT
and unravel the function of these cells.

We demonstrate that MGCs occur in obese patients and after 24 weeks of
high fat diet (HFD) in mice, accompanying signs of AT inflammation and then
represent ~3% of ATMs in mice. Mechanistically, we found evidence that
adipocyte death triggers MGC formation. Most importantly, MGCs in obese AT have
a higher capacity to phagocytose oversized particles, such as adipocytes, as
shown by live-imaging of AT, 45 µm bead uptake ex vivo and a higher lipid content in vivo. Finally, we show that IL-4 treatment is sufficient to increase
the number of MGCs in AT, whereas other factors maybe more important for
endogenous MGC formation in vivo.
COGNITIVE RESEARCH ON MUSICAL METAPHORS IN THE POEM “SONG OF MYSELF” BY W. WHITMAN
Authors: KAMYSHEVA OLGA S.
Published: November 2020

The author considers the primary and secondary musical metaphors in the poem “Song of Myself” by W. Whitman. The article classifies distinguished metaphorical models according to the frame-slot analysis technique. As a result of the study, the author concludes that the main and secondary metaphors are closely connected, revealing the cognitive processes related to the basic concept of this poetic work.
COMPOSITIONAL FEATURES OF TWO 18TH CENTURY SPECIALIZED TEXTS (A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON GERMAN AND RUSSIAN LANGUAGES)
Authors: FILIPPOV ANDREI K. , FILIPPOV KONSTANTIN A.
Published: November 2020

A comparison of structural and compositional characteristics of the German agricultural manual Oeconomus Prudens et Legalis (1702) and its Russian translation Florinova Ekonomiya (‘Florin’s Economy’, 1738) demonstrates differences in the heading systems, chapter structure, in the use of font highlights and ways of integrating illustrations into the text. These data are used for describing some typological features of special texts in Germany and Russia of the 18th century.
FEATURES OF TRAINING TEACHERS ENGAGED IN INCLUSIVE PRACTICE
Authors: DENISOVA OLGA A. , LEKHANOVA OLGA L. , PONIKAROVA VALENTINA N. , GUDINA TAT'YANA V.
Published: November 2020

The article considers the problem of training teachers for the implementation of inclusive education. It can be stated that modern educational institutions need specialists who carry out inclusive practices, are able to accept a child with disabilities, ready for the timely identification of this category of children, and the organization of various forms and types of assistance to them, taking into account individual and personal characteristics. The model of psychological and pedagogical support of inclusive education teachers on the formation of specialist’s professionally important qualities is presented and described. Thus, the training of such specialists is possible through the implementation of the described model, which assumes a holistic educational strategy and tactics aimed at personifying the future teacher’s training, teacher’s retraining as the subject of activity within the framework of inclusive education.
EQUIPMENT CONDITION MODELING BASED ON RANDOM FOREST AND ARIMA MACHINE LEARNING ALGORITHM STACKING
Authors: ERSHOV EVGENY V. , YUDINA OLGA V. , VINOGRADOVA LYUDMILA N. , SHAKHANOV NIKITA I.
Published: November 2020

The article discusses algorithms for constructing predicative models of the industrial equipment condition using data analysis and machine learning. The model is based on Random Forest (RF) and ARIMA (AR) algorithms. The authors consider approaches to learning algorithms and optimizing parameters. A block diagram of a time series predictive model applying stacking is presented, as well as an assessment of the simulation results.
USING MACHINE LEARNING METHODS FOR THE CORRECTION OF BEHAVIORAL RISK FACTORS FOR PREVENTION OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES
Authors: RAPAKOV GEORGII G. , BANSHCHIKOV GENNADII T. , GORBUNOV VYACHESLAV A. , UDARATIN ALEKSEY V.
Published: November 2020

The article describes machine learning methods in the correction of behavioral risk factors while preventing cardiovascular diseases. The monitoring of health saving educational space in the regional system of medical prevention was implemented. Applying computer modeling the authors developed a model of binding rules based on the method of association rules and suggested the set of 5 logical rules for the risk factor of arterial hypertension. Decision tree method was used to induce decision rules and identify the target group to correct risk factors and increase the quality of arterial hypertension control. The present study provided the analysis and confidence estimation of the prognostic model. The results of this analysis were used to support management decisions in the regional system of preventive medicine.
A prática em "Crítica da organização do trabalho pedagógico e da didática"
Authors: Peixoto Elza Margarida de Mendonça , Barreto Nayara Bessa
Published: November 2020

Este trabalho relata uma investigação que busca inventariar as concepções de prática presentes nas proposições que sustentam as posições histórico-críticas sobre a formação de professores no Brasil, delimitada à obra Crítica da organização do trabalho pedagógico e da didática, elaborada por Luiz Carlos de Freitas. Objetiva-se levantar aquilo que vem sendo reconhecido como prática pela literatura que reivindica a concepção materialista e dialética de produção do conhecimento. A pesquisa se justifica devido à necessidade objetiva, reconhecida subjetivamente, de precisar a categoria materialista de prática. Em Freitas, a questão apresenta-se no sentido de tomar a prática como a fonte das categorias teóricas a partir das quais se deve desenvolver a didática. Numa interpretação muito particular, o conhecimento daquilo que é a prática da sala de aula abre possibilidades para a superação dos limites da escola capitalista, viabilizando uma intervenção didática transformadora dessas relações de produção.
The effect of response to heat stress, parity, breed and breeding region on somatic cell count in dairy cattle
Authors:   Department for Animal Production and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agrobiotechnology Osijek, University of Josip Juraj Strossmayer of Osijek, Croatia, Vesna Gantner  , Marković Božidarka , Gavran Mirna , Šperanda Marcela , Kučević Denis , Gregić Maja , Gregić Maja
Published: November 2020

With the aim of determining the effect of response to heat stress, parity, breed and breeding region on somatic cell count (SCC) in dairy cattle, the individual test-day records of dairy cows collected from 2005 to 2012 in regular milk recording (AT4 / BT4 method) in Croatia were used. The proportional differences in log somatic cell count, and logSCC (in %) in subsequent milk recordings (1st, and 2nd) were determined in cows with a significant decrease in daily milk yield at a set temperature-humidity index, THI threshold (68, 72, and 76). The results indicate high variability in somatic cell count due to the animal’s response to heat stress (heat stressed at THI in 68, 72, and 76), parity (1, 2, and 3+), breed (Holstein, and Simmental) and breeding region (Central, and Eastern Croatia). Also, it could be pointed out that Holsteins, especially cows in higher parities (2, 3+) reared in Eastern Croatia were shown to be more sensitive to environmental stress, even in the period after heat stress (1st, and 2nd subsequent milk recording). Since SCC is not only an indicator for mastitis, but also reflects a cow’s immune response to general stress situations, the high variability determined may be explained by the individual adaptation capabilities of these two breeds to breeding conditions in the analysed regions.