bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CT radiomics facilitates more accurate diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia: compared with CO-RADS
Authors: Liu Huanhuan , Ren Hua , Wu Zengbin , Xu He , Zhang Shuhai , Li Jinning , Hou Liang , Chi Runmin , Zheng Hui , Chen Yanhong , Duan Shaofeng , Li Huimin , Xie Zongyu , Wang Dengbin
Published: September 2020

Background
Limited data was available for rapid and accurate detection of COVID-19 using CT-based machine learning model. This study aimed to investigate the value of chest CT radiomics for diagnosing COVID-19 pneumonia compared with clinical model and COVID-19 reporting and data system (CO-RADS), and develop an open-source diagnostic tool with the constructed radiomics model.
Methods
This study enrolled 115 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 and 435 non-COVID-19 pneunomia patients (training dataset, n = 379; validation dataset, n = 131; testing dataset, n = 40). Key radiomics features extracted from chest CT images were selected to build a radiomics signature using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. Clinical and clinico-radiomics combined models were constructed. The combined model was further validated in the viral pneumonia cohort, and compared with performance of two radiologists with CO-RADS. The diagnostic performance was assessed by receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) analysis, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).
Results
Eight radiomics features and 5 clinical variables were selected to construct the combined radiomics model, which outperformed the clinical model in diagnosing COVID-19 pneumonia with an area under the ROC (AUC) of 0.98 and good calibration in the validation cohort. The combined model also performed better in distinguishing COVID-19 from other viral pneumonia with an AUC of 0.93 compared with 0.75 (P = 0.03) for clinical model, and 0.69 (P = 0.008) or 0.82 (P = 0.15) for two trained radiologists using CO-RADS. The sensitivity and specificity of the combined model can be achieved to 0.85 and 0.90. The DCA confirmed the clinical utility of the combined model. An easy-to-use open-source diagnostic tool was developed using the combined model.
Conclusions
The combined radiomics model outperformed clinical model and CO-RADS for diagnosing COVID-19 pneumonia, which can facilitate more rapid and accurate detection.
Determinants of Life Expectancy in Most Polluted Countries: Exploring the Effect of Environmental Degradation
Authors: Rahman Mafiz , Rana Rezwanul , Khanam Rasheda
Published: September 2020

Background: Better understanding of the determinants of national life expectancy is crucial for economic development, as healthy nation is a prerequisite for a wealthy nation. Many socioeconomic, nutritional, lifestyle, genetic and environmental factors can influence a nation’s health and longevity. Environmental degradation is one of the critical determinants of life expectancy, which is still under researched as the literature suggests Objectives: This study aims to investigate the determinants of life expectancy in 31 world’s most polluted countries with particular attention on environmental degradation using the World Bank annual data and British Petroleum data over the period of 18 years (2000-2017), Methods: The empirical investigation is based on the model of Preston Curve where panel corrected standard errors (PCSE) and feasible general least square (FGLS) estimates are employed to explore the long run effects. Pairwise Granger causality test is also used to have short run causality among the variables of interest taking into account the cross sectional dependence test and other essential diagnostic tests. Results: The results confirm the existence of Preston Curve, implying the positive effect of economic growth on the life expectancy. Environmental degradation is found as a threat while health expenditure, clean water and improved sanitation affect the life expectancy positively in the sample countries. The causality test results reveal one-way causality from carbon emissions to life expectancy and bidirectional causalities between drinking water and life expectancy, and sanitation and life expectancy. Conclusion: Our results reveal that environmental degradation is a threat for having the improved life expectancy in our sample countries. Based on the results of this study, we recommend that: (1) policy marker of these countries should adopt policies that will reduce carbon emissions and thus will improve public health and productivity; (2) environment-friendly technologies and resources, such as renewable energy, should be used in production process; (3) healthcare expenditure on national budget should be increased; and (4) clean drinking water and basic sanitation facilities must be ensured for all people.
Gender Specificity of Spousal Concordance in the Development of Chronic Disease Among Middle-Aged and Older Chinese Couples: A Prospective Dyadic Analysis
Authors: Liao Jing , Zhang Jing , Xie Jinzhao , Gu Jing
Published: September 2020

Background
This study aimed to explore the gender specificity of spousal concordance in the development of chronic diseases among middle-aged and older Chinese couples.
Methods
Data of 3420 couples (husbands: mean age, 57.5 years, SD = 8.5; wives: mean age, 55.6 years, SD = 8.0) were obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the incidence of chronic disease development over 4 years, conditional on the spousal baseline chronic disease status; and stepwise adjusting for the couples’ sociodemographic characteristics (i.e. age, education, retirement status and household income), and their individual lifestyle (i.e. smoking, drinking, exercise, social participation and (pre-)obesity) all measured at baseline.
Results
The incidence of chronic diseases after 4 years of follow-up was 34.5% in the husbands (727/2110) and 37.2% in the wives (882/2371). Taking the couples’ baseline sociodemographic and lifestyle covariates into account, husbands whose wife had a chronic disease at baseline showed an increased risk of developing a chronic disease over 4 years (ORadjusted=1.37, 95% CI:1.14,1.63), but this risk was not statistically-significant for wives (ORadjusted=1.16, 95%CI:0.97,1.40).
Conclusions
Our study identified gender specificity of spousal concordance in the development of chronic diseases among middle-aged and older- Chinese couples. This finding may contribute to the design of couple-based intervention for disease prevention and management for community-dwelling older adults.
Re-clustering and profiling of digestive system tumors according to microenvironment components
Authors: Wang Yongwei , Guo Sen , Chen Zhihong , Bai Bing , Wang Shuo , Gao Yaxian
Published: September 2020

BackgroundsImmunotherapy has become the most promising therapy in digestive system tumors besides conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, only a few patients could benefit from this kind of immunotherapy such as immune checkpoint blocking (ICB) treatment. It is urgent to screening and profiling the subgroups of patients with different responsiveness to ICB treatment.MethodsThis study carried out analysis on digestive system tumor patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohorts. The analyses were mainly performed by GraphPad Prism 7 and R language.ResultsWe have quantified the microenvironmental components of eight digestive system tumor patients in TCGA cohort and evaluated their clinical value. We re-clustered patients based on the characteristics of the microenvironment composition and divided these patients into 6 clusters. The difference between these 6 clusters were profiled including survival conditions, enriched biological process, genomic mutation and microenvironment traits. We also evaluated the response heterogeneity in ICB cohorts grouping by microenvironmental factors.ConclusionsCluster 3 was the most immune related cluster with high infiltration of non-tumor components and poor survival status, which was also exhibited an inhibitory immune status. High stromal score could represent cluster 3 and indicated a poor response in ICB cohorts.
YAP Manipulates Proliferation Via PTEN/AKT/mTOR-mediated Autophagy in Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Xu Wei , Zhang Mingjiong , Li Yue , Wang Yu , Wang Kai , Chen Qiaoyu , Zhang Runjie , Song Weiwei , Huang Qiqing , Zhao Weihong , Wu Jianqing
Published: September 2020

Background: Autophagy is a double-edged sword during the initiation or progression of multiple tumors. Hippo pathway core-factor YAP has been proved to be involved in autophagy processes. The present study aimed to identify the mechanism underlying modulation of YAP via PTEN/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy in lung adenocarcinomas (LUAD).Methods: Data of LUAD chip GSE43458 was obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to assess YAP expression in LUAD cell lines. CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, xenograft tumor model, immunochemistry and GFP-mRFP-LC3 fusion proteins were utilized to evaluate the effect of YAP on autophagy of LUAD cells in vitro and in vivo. Autophagy inhibitor and rescue experiments were carried out to elucidate the mechanism by which YAP manipulating autophagy in LUAD cells.Results: YAP significantly overexpressed in samples of LUAD patients and related to 5-year survival. YAP manipulates the proliferation and autophagy of A549 and H1299 LUAD cells. YAP induces activation of Akt/mTOR signaling pathway via suppressing PTEN in a Hippo-pathway-dependent manner. 3-Methyladenine impeded autophagy flux and promoted the proliferation in vitro and in vivo.Conclusions: Hippo pathway critical transcriptional coactivators YAP manipulates the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma, which is regulated by PTEN/AKT/mTOR autophagic signaling.
Associations Between Continuous Glucose Monitoring-derived Metrics and Arterial Stiffness in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Wakasugi Satomi , Mita Tomoya , Katakami Naoto , Okada Yosuke , Yoshii Hidenori , Osonoi Takeshi , Kuribayashi Nobuichi , Taneda Yoshinobu , Kojima Yuichi , Gosho Masahiko , Shimomura Iichiro , Watada Hirotaka
Published: September 2020

Background Previous studies have suggested that high mean glucose levels and various glycemic abnormalities such as glucose fluctuation and hypoglycemia accelerate the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes. Although continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) that could evaluate such glycemic abnormalities has been rapidly adopted, the associations between CGM-derived metrics and arterial stiffness are not entirely clear. Methods This is an exploratory analysis of an ongoing prospective, multicenter, 5-year follow-up observational study. Study participants included 445 outpatients with type 2 diabetes who underwent CGM and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) measurement at baseline. Associations between CGM-derived metrics and baPWV were investigated using multivariate regression models.Results In a linear regression model, all CGM–derived metrics were significantly associated with baPWV, but HbA1c was not. Some CGM–derived metrics related to intra-day glucose variability, hyperglycemia, and hypoglycemia remained significantly associated with baPWV after adjusting for possible atherosclerotic risk factors, including HbA1c. Based on baPWV ≥1,800 cm/s as indicative of high arterial stiffness, multivariate logistic regression found that some CGM-derived metrics related to intra-day glucose variability and hyperglycemia are significantly associated with high arterial stiffness even after adjusting for possible atherosclerotic risk factors, including HbA1c.Conclusions Multiple CGM-derived metrics are significantly associated with baPWV and high arterial stiffness in patients with type 2 diabetes who have no history of apparent cardiovascular disease. These metrics might be useful for identifying patients at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease.This study has been registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000032325).
Ruxolitinib Might Be an Effective Hormone Reduction and Replacement Drug in Children With Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis 
Authors: Chi Ying , Liu Rong , Zhou Zhixuan , Shi Xiaodong , Ding Yuchuan , Li Jianguo
Published: September 2020

Background: To analyze the effects of ruxolitinib on children with secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH).Methods: Eleven pediatric patients diagnosed with HLH and treated with ruxolitinib (ruxolitinib group: group R) between November 2017 and August 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Eleven age-matched pediatric patients with HLH undergoing conventional treatment (control group: group C) were also analyzed.Results: In group R, three patients who did not respond to conventional treatment (dexamethasone and etoposide) were treated with Ruxolitinib and their temperature decreased to normal levels. Four patients had normal temperature after conventional treatment, but they had severe organ involvement, including obvious yellowing of the skin, increased liver enzyme levels and neuropsychiatric symptoms, and they were all ameliorated with ruxolitinib treatment. Four patients were relieved with ruxolitinib therapy alone. In group C, the body temperature of eleven patients all decreased to normal levels after conventional treatment. The body temperature of group R patients decreased to normal levels more rapidly than that of group C patients. The hormone dosage in group R was significantly lower than that in group C. Both groups were followed up for 2–2.5 years. No obvious adverse drug reactions of ruxolitinib were observed during treatment and follow-up.Conclusion: Ruxolitinib might be an effective drug in controlling body temperature and reducing inflammation indicators. It might be a potential replacement for hormone therapy for HLH treatment in children, thereby reducing or avoiding hormone-related adverse reactions.
LPS-stimulated Macrophage Exosomes Inhibit Inflammation by Activating the Nrf2 / HO-1 Defense Pathway and Promote Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Li Daoyong , Wu Chao , Tian He , Mao Liang , Gao Zhanshan , Xia Nan , liu chang , Mei Xifan
Published: September 2020

Background:Impaired wound healing is one of the important complications of diabetes. However, the specific pathogenesis is still unclear, and there is no effective treatment. Macrophages pretreated with chemical or biological factors may increase the biological activity of macrophage-derived exosomes, which is expected to become a new effective treatment method. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the exosomes secreted by macrophages pretreated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) have better anti-inflammatory and angiogenic abilities in the treatment of diabetic wound healing and their underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:In this study, macroscopical, biochemical, histological, immunofluorescence and molecular biology methods were used to evaluate the potential protective mechanism and effect of lipopolysaccharide stimulated macrophage exosomes (LPS-Exos) on wound healing in streptozotocin induced hyperglycemia rats.In the in vivo experiment, the percentages of wound closure and contraction were compared and analyzed on the 7th, 14th, and 21st day after treatment by grouping treatments with different concentrations of LPS-Exos.At the same time, hematoxylin and eosin staining (HE), Masson staining, immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting (WB) were used for histological analysis of the wound tissue on the 14th day after injury to evaluate the impact of different treatment methods on wound healing.In in vitro experiments, the ability of endothelial cells related to proliferation, migration, tube formation and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were tested.At the same time, in vivo and in vitro experiments, the effect of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway on LPS-Exos in inhibiting inflammation and promoting angiogenesis was evaluated by using exosome-specific inhibitors.Results:LPS-Exos reduced the content of ROS and MDA in the wound tissue of hyperglycemic rats, increased the activity of SOD and the production of GSH-Px, activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, inhibited the expression of inflammation-related proteins, and promoted blood vessels generate. The group given exosome inhibitors reversed this phenomenon.Conclusions: LPS-Exos may activate the Nrf2/HO-1 defense pathway, improve endothelial cell function, inhibit oxidative damage and inflammation, and promote wound healing in diabetic rats, thereby having the potential to treat diabetic skin defects.
Theoretical Analysis and Experimental Research of Surface Texture Hydrodynamic Lubrication
Authors: Li Dan , YANG Xuefeng , Yuanbo Wu , Jian Cheng , Shouren Wang , Zhuang Wan , Wenbo Liu , Guofeng Xia
Published: September 2020

This paper established a mathematical model of hydrodynamic lubrication through theoretical analysis, solved the key variables of the mathematical model through simulation and validated the mathematical model using the experimental results. The purpose is to summarize a set of surface texture theory and optimal selection equations for complex working conditions. After comparing the experimental results with the results obtained by the mathematical model, it is found that the two are basically the same in the ranking of the anti-friction properties of different textures, and there is an error of 10%-40% in the friction coefficient value.
Establishment of a Rapid Breeding System for Bletilla Striata
Authors: Mi zeyuan , Lv dinghao , Liu shuai , Zhao guangming , Wang shiqiang , Niu junfeng , Wang zhezhi
Published: September 2020

BackgroundBletilla striata (Thunb. ex A. Murray) Rchb. f., a species of perennial herb of orchidaceae has remarkable effects and high economic value; thus it has been intensively studied by many scholars. Although this herb has numerous seeds, the germination rate is exceptionally low, which leads to decreased of germplasm resources and increased market demands year by year. ResultsWith the aim of addressing this issue, the present study included the aseptic germination system and the direct seeding technology system. On the basis of Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, 2.0 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA) and 1.0 mg/L naphthylacetic acid (NAA) were added prior to seed germination, 70 g/L banana juice and 0.5 mg/L NAA were added when rooting, after which the seedlings were transplanted into a mixed substrate of humus, river sand and bark (3:1:1). The direct seeding system consists of a seedling base and substrate treatment, sowing and seedling raising, seedling growth and transplanting, etc. Turfy soil, huangjiang residue and river sand were selected as the substrate. The results revealed that the germination rate was increased to 91.8%, while the plantlet regeneration was increased to 82.0%. Following 180 days of cultivation, the plants could be transplanted as finished seedlings.ConclusionsThe establishment of this B. striata seedling system provides a safe, rapid, reliable production technology route for its industrial development.
Destek Eğitim Odasında Görevlendirilen Sınıf Öğretmenlerinin Sınıf Yönetimine İlişkin Bilgi Düzeyleri
Authors: TAŞ Halil
Published: September 2020

Bu araştırmanın amacı, destek eğitim odasında görevlendirilen sınıf öğretmenlerinin sınıf yönetimine ilişkin bilgi düzeylerini belirlemek ve bu bilgi düzeyinin cinsiyetlerine, mezun oldukları okul türüne, mesleki kıdemlerine ve sınıf yönetimi konusunda eğitim alıp almadıklarına göre farklılık gösterip göstermediğini ortaya koymaktır. Tarama modeli niteliğinde olan bu araştırmanın çalışma grubunu, 53 sınıf öğretmeni oluşturmaktadır. Çalışma grubunun belirlenmesinde, amaçlı örnekleme yöntemlerinden ölçüt örnekleme yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Nicel ve nitel araştırma tekniklerinin birlikte kullanıldığı bu araştırmada nicel veri toplama aracı olarak “Sınıf Yönetimi Bilgi Düzeyi Ölçme Testi” nitel veri toplama aracı olarak ise “Görüşme Formu” kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen nicel verilerin analizinde frekans, t-testi, tek yönlü varyans analizi ve Scheffe çoklu karşılaştırma testi, nitel verilerin analizinde ise betimsel analiz tekniği kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonuçları, destek eğitim odasında görevlendirilen sınıf öğretmenlerinin sınıf yönetimine ilişkin bilgi düzeylerinin düşük olduğunu, bilgi düzeylerinin mesleki kıdemlerine ve sınıf yönetimi konusunda eğitim almalarına göre farklılık gösterdiğini, mezun oldukları okul türüne ve cinsiyete göre ise farklılık göstermediğini ortaya koymuştur.
Protective Potential of Uric Acid, Folic Acid, Glutathione and Ascorbic Acid Against the Formation of Toxic Met-Myoglobin
Authors: Al Abdulmonem Waleed , Aljohani Abdullah S. M. , Alhumaydhi Fahad A. , Mousa Amira H.M. , Rasheed Zafar
Published: September 2020

Background:

Myoglobin is an oxygen binding protein and its dysfunction has been associated
with the pathology of several human disorders. This study was undertaken to investigation
the role of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the formation of met-myoglobin and the protective potential
of four different reductants such as uric acid, folic acid, glutathione and ascorbic acid were also
tested against met-myoglobin formation.

Methods:

Human myoglobin was treated with H2O2 in-vitro in order to prepare met-myoglobin.
The generation of met-myoglobin was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy and its stability was
analysed by the treatment of human myoglobin with H2O2 at varying pH or time. High performance
liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the oxidatively modified heme products in
met-myoglobin. Spectroscopic analysis was used to identify the protective potential of uric acid,
folic acid, glutathione and ascorbic acid against the formation of met-myoglobin.

Results:

The novel data of this study showed that H2O2 induced extensive damage of myoglobin
but the treatment with uric acid, folic acid, glutathione or ascorbic acid provides protection of myoglobin
against H2O2 induced oxidative damaged. The study apparently proved the protective potential
of all these compounds against the toxicity produced by H2O2.

Conclusion:

This is the first study that shows uric acid, folic acid, glutathione and ascorbic acid
provide protection against the generation of toxic met-myoglobin and might be used therapeutically
to modify the blood conditions in order to prevent the progression of human disorders associated
with myoglobin dysfunction.
Exploring the Role of Aggregated Proteomes in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Narayanan Siju Ellickal , Sekhar Nikhila , Rajamma Rajalakshmi Ganesan , Marathakam Akash , Al Mamun Abdullah , Uddin Md. Sahab , Mathew Bijo
Published: September 2020

:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive brain disorder and one of the most common
causes of dementia and death. AD can be of two types; early-onset and late-onset, where late-onset
AD occurs sporadically while early-onset AD results from a mutation in any of the three genes that
include amyloid precursor protein (APP), presenilin 1 (PSEN 1) and presenilin 2 (PSEN 2). Biologically,
AD is defined by the presence of the distinct neuropathological profile that consists of the extracellular
β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition in the form of diffuse neuritic plaques, intraneuronal neurofibrillary
tangles (NFTs) and neuropil threads; in dystrophic neuritis, consisting of aggregated hyperphosphorylated
tau protein. Elevated levels of (Aβ), total tau (t-tau) and phosphorylated tau (ptau)
in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) have become an important biomarker for the identification of this
neurodegenerative disease. The aggregation of Aβ peptide derived from amyloid precursor protein
initiates a series of events that involve inflammation, tau hyperphosphorylation and its deposition,
in addition to synaptic dysfunction and neurodegeneration, ultimately resulting in dementia. The
current review focuses on the role of proteomes in the pathogenesis of AD.
Development of Schiff bases from Amikacin: Synthesis, Antibacterial, Anti-urease Activities and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Anwar Shabana , Khan Mohsin Abbas , Ahmed Irshad , Pervaiz Irfan , Shah Hamid Saeed
Published: September 2020

Background:

The use of antibiotics has compromised due to the appearance of multidrug- resistant strains and decreased susceptibility of strains to antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance has become a worldwide threat as well as Helicobacter pylori induced gastric cancer is a major problem nowadays. Therefore, it is the need of time to synthesize potent anti-urease motifs.

Introduction:

Schiff bases represent a large class of biologically active compounds that exhibited a broad spectrum of biological activities. Amikacin is an important drug used against multidrugresistant species of microbes. Therefore, imine derivatives of amikacin may help to reduce the resistance of microbes and to treat the Helicobacter pylori induced stomach problems by inhibiting the Helicobacter Pylori Urease enzyme.

Methods:

Schiff bases of amikacin were synthesized and screened for in-vitro antibacterial assay performed by well diffusion method against Bacillus megaterium (Bm), Bacillus subtilis (Bs), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (Sm), Staphylococcus aureus (Sa), Micrococcus luteus (Ml), Serratia marcescens (S. mar), Escherichia coli (E. coli) and anti-urease activity was performed by Indophenol method. Structures confirmed by IR, 1HNMR and 13CNMR spectroscopy.

Results:

Compounds showed varying degrees of antibacterial effects. Schiff bases A2 and A8 exhibited potent urease inhibition activity with Ki values 0.2754 and 0.2908 μM, respectively and their binding affinity was calculated as greater than the standard drug.

Conclusion:

Derivatives of amikacin with aromatic rings were more active antibacterials than those with an aliphatic side chain. The potent anti-urease activity has been recorded for compounds A2 and A8. Therefore, they may serve as lead compounds in the discovery of Helicobacter pylori Urease inhibitors.
In Vitro Antagonistic Activity of Diverse Bacillus Species Against Fusarium culmorum and F. solani Pathogens
Authors: Harba M. , Jawhar M. , Arabi M.I.E.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Fusarium culmorum and Fusarium solani are economically important fungal pathogens of many plant species causing significant yield losses worldwide. Frequent uses of fungicides are hazardous to humans and the environment. Therefore, in vitro antagonistic activity of diverse Bacillus species isolates with biological potential activity to control these both pathogens should be investigated.

Objective:

The objectives were to isolate and identify the Bacillus spp., which are potential controls of F. culmorum and F. solani, and to characterize molecularly, at the species level, those isolates that have potential as biocontroller of the pathogens.

Methods:

The in vitro antagonistic potential of 40 Bacillus isolates against F. culmorum and F. solani was evaluated on the basis of fungal growth inhibition on nutrient broth culture. The colony morphology and the 16S rRNA gene sequencing of Bacillus spp. were used to identify the isolates.

Results:

Bacillus sp. isolates were identified as B. atrophaeus, B. subtilis, Paenibacillus polymxa, B. amyloliquefaciens, B. simplex and B. tequilensis. They had significant (P<0.05) antagonistic activities against F. culmorum and F. solani isolates as compared to the untreated control. The antagonistic effects varied depending on the Fusarium sp. The bacterial B. subtilis isolates SY116C and SY SY118C provided the most noteworthy result as both strongly inhibited mycelial growth of F. solani by 97.2%, while the B. tequilensis isolate SY145D was the most effective in the formation of inhibition zones against F. culmorum by 75%.

Conclusion:

It is apparent that Bacillus sp. isolates play an important role in the inhibition of growth of F. culmorum and F. solani, and that the B. subtilis isolates SY116C and SY118C had the highest biological potential activity against these fungi. These antagonistic effects may be important contributors as a biocontrol approach that could be employed as a part of integrated soil pathogen management system.
Physical Activity at Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Two Most-affected Cities in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Barwais Faisal A
Published: September 2020

Background:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, sufficient physical activity has had a positive effect on physical and mental health. This study aimed to assess levels of physical activity among Saudi participants before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

The study included 244 young and middle-aged Saudi adults (154 males, 90 females), (mean age ± SD, 33.8 ± 7.7 years). All subjects completed an online self-report questionnaire to determine their physical activity levels over the last 7 days. Paired t-tests were used to determine if there were significant differences in the total MET-minutes/week of physical activity (i.e., insufficiently active and sufficiently active) between different variables of physical activity-related social contexts.

Results:

A significant decrease (57.1%) in the time spent performing physical activity before and during the COVID-19 lockdown was observed. No significant difference in total MET-min/week of physical activity before and during the lockdown was observed for the participants who participated in physical activity with a personal trainer (before = 2207 ± 389.3 MET-min/week; during = 2077 ± 201.5 MET-min/week). However, results indicated significant decreases in physical activity for participants who performed physical activity alone (59%), with family (61.6%), with friends (62%), or with groups (61.3%).

Conclusion:

The results of this study showed a significant decrease in the amount of time spent in physical activity levels during the COVID-19 lockdown than before the lockdown period. These findings may have implications for the essential development of public health initiatives that aim to increase physical activity levels during the pandemic. This study adds to the knowledge base by showing how people during the COVID-19 lockdown have more time to be physically active at home; nevertheless, this study indicates that participants are insufficiently physically active.
Public Attitudes in Asia Toward Stuttering: A Scoping Review
Authors: Haryani H. , S.Y Chu. , J. S. Yaruss. , G. McConnell , M. M. Ali.
Published: September 2020

Background/Objective:

Limited information is available about public attitudes towards stuttering across Asia. This review considers the key factors and approaches used to measure public attitudes towards stuttering across Asia that have previously been published in order to identify potential research gaps.

Methods:

A scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) framework.

Results:

A total of nine relevant articles, published between 2001 to 2019, were selected for review. Most of the studies used the Public Opinion Survey of Human Attributes (POSHA) as a survey tool. This review yielded studies from Turkey, Kuwait, China/Hong Kong, and Japan. Asian public attitudes towards stuttering were less positive in general, except in Kuwait.

Conclusion:

Given that limited research has focused on examining the attitudes towards stuttering among the general public in the Asian region, we call for international collaboration to increase research about public attitudes. Such data could assist speech-language pathologists in developing awareness campaigns for better intervention and increased acceptance of individuals who stutter.
One-post Solvothermal Synthesis of Bismuth Oxybromides for Efficient Visible-light Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Parahydroxybenzoate: Effects of Alkaline and Reaction Medium
Authors: Xiao Jiaxiu , Zhang Xiaoting , Huang Yaoyao , Luo Xiuling , Xiao Xin
Published: September 2020

Background:

The development of high-efficiency visible-light-active photocatalysts to
eliminate emerging contaminants is of great significance for environmental remediation and personal
safety.

Methods:

In this work, BiOBr and two oxygen-rich bismuth oxybromide (Bi4O5Br2-EG and
Bi4O5Br2-H2O) were synthesized by solvothermal method through the reaction of Bi3+and Br- in
different reaction medium (ethylene glycol or water) and alkali conditions. The composition, structure,
morphology, light absorption, surface area, and surface feature of the synthetic bismuth oxybromides
were systematically characterized. Due to the presence of ethylene glycol and OH-, the
Bi4O5Br2-EG preferentially exposes the 010 facets. The formation of hierarchical flower-like
structures of Bi4O5Br2-EG can be elucidated by the dissolution-recrystallization-growth mechanism.
The bismuth oxybromides were then used for photocatalytic degradation of methyl parahydroxybenzoate
(a commonly used preservative but exposes endocrine disrupting activity) under visible-
light irradiation.

Results:

Since Bi4O5Br2-EG has a satisfactory band structure (bandgap energy ~2.61 eV, valence
band potential +2.45 V), high surface area (49.0 m2g-1), and negatively charged surface, its photocatalytic
removal efficiency of MPHB is 46.5 and 8.04 times that of BiOBr and Bi4O5Br2-H2O, respectively.
During the photodegradation reaction, holes and superoxide radicals were recognized as
the key reactive oxide species.

Conclusion:

The as-synthesized Bi4O5Br2-EG is stable and easy to reuse, suggesting it is a potential
candidate for wastewater treatment.
Novel Corona-Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Perilous Life- Threatening Epidemic
Authors: Goel Surya , Dayal Ram
Published: September 2020

Background:

The widespread of novel coronavirus is a global concern. With each passing
day, the novel coronavirus is making its new borders. Research has revealed that the virus produced in
bats and was transmitted to humans firstly in Wuhan, Hubei province of China in December 2019. The
contagion has been significantly acting as a vulnerable threat to the copious world.

Objective:

The purpose of this review is to provide the valuable and detailed information about the historical
background, origin, classification, morphology, transmission pattern, symptoms, treatment parameters,
number of cases as well as the preventive measures of the corona-virus disease 2019 (COVID-
19).

Methods:

The disease is transmitted to people by inhalation or close contact of infected droplets. To
split the sequential chain of this contagious disease, we need to know about its symptoms, ways of
transmission, preventive measures and safety guidelines.

Results:

The widespread of COVID-19 is a global concern. The morbidity rate due to COVID-19 is increasing
regularly. As for now, there is no specific cure, vaccine and treatment; the lives can be saved
only by following the preventive measures and safety guidelines.

Conclusion:

Several clinical trials are in progress for the development of a suitable vaccine to combat
this disease. This review shall be helpful in providing detailed information regarding the novel coronavirus
so that the sequences of such infection can be reduced.
Podemos falar dunha Rosalía transmedial?
Authors: Ogando Iolanda
Published: September 2020

Rosalía de Castro, cerne do canon literario galego, coñeceu unha fortuna moi irregular na súa transmutación de figura autoral en símbolo, pois sendo unha efixie cultural indiscutida, a súa centralidade implicaría o apagamento de moitas das súas actitudes e conviccións. Este contraste entre recoñecemento e descoñecemento reproduciuse en moitos ámbitos, entre eles o audiovisual, sector no que o proceso de construción da imaxe da escritora ocupa un lugar significativo, pero tamén xorde marcado polas contradicións detectábeis nos outros campos.

Por esta razón, cremos que reexaminar a pasaxe do relato vital e literario de Rosalía ao audiovisual, sexa desde o terreo dos estudos cinematográficos, sexa desde os estudos literarios, e máis concretamente desde as achegas das narrativas transmediais, poden proporcionar máis luz no arduo proceso de configuración do símbolo rosaliano e, con el, de toda a cultura.

Con esa perspectiva, no presente traballo estudamos a transmediación rosaliana realizada na miniserie Contou Rosalía (2018), con especial atención ao tratamento dado á imaxe de Rosalía no telefilme e nos documentos audiovisuais xerados ao redor do mesmo, e a súa relevancia na conformación da identidade galega.
Beyond Persecution: Exploring Alternative Refugee Narratives in Jenny Erpenbeck
Authors: Carton Jessy
Published: September 2020

In bureaucratic settings, complex refugee narratives are often converted into stereotypical accounts of persecution guided by questions asked by protection officers. This article explores potential room for improvement in these administrative dialogues on displacement through literary text analyses. I argue that literature does not only operate as a platform to contest laws and policies, but also as a powerful source of alternative modes of narration in the context of asylum and migration. This point is demonstrated in a first case study of the dialogues on refuge in the European Union embedded in Jenny Erpenbeck’s acclaimed novel Gehen, ging, gegangen (2015).
Web-Based Technology for Remote Viewing of Radiological Images: App Validation
Authors: Min Qiusha , Wang Xin , Huang Bo , Xu Liangzhou
Published: September 2020

Background

Internet technologies can create advanced and rich web-based apps that allow radiologists to easily access teleradiology systems and remotely view medical images. However, each technology has its own drawbacks. It is difficult to balance the advantages and disadvantages of these internet technologies and identify an optimal solution for the development of medical imaging apps.

Objective

This study aimed to compare different internet platform technologies for remotely viewing radiological images and analyze their advantages and disadvantages.

Methods

Oracle Java, Adobe Flash, and HTML5 were each used to develop a comprehensive web-based medical imaging app that connected to a medical image server and provided several required functions for radiological interpretation (eg, navigation, magnification, windowing, and fly-through). Java-, Flash-, and HTML5-based medical imaging apps were tested on different operating systems over a local area network and a wide area network. Three computed tomography colonography data sets and 2 ordinary personal computers were used in the experiment.

Results

The experimental results demonstrated that Java-, Flash-, and HTML5-based apps had the ability to provide real-time 2D functions. However, for 3D, performances differed between the 3 apps. The Java-based app had the highest frame rate of volume rendering. However, it required the longest time for surface rendering and failed to run surface rendering in macOS. The HTML5-based app had the fastest surface rendering and the highest speed for fly-through without platform dependence. Volume rendering, surface rendering, and fly-through performances of the Flash-based app were significantly worse than those of the other 2 apps.

Conclusions

Oracle Java, Adobe Flash, and HTML5 have individual strengths in the development of remote access medical imaging apps. However, HTML5 is a promising technology for remote viewing of radiological images and can provide excellent performance without requiring any plug-ins.
App-Delivered Self-Management Intervention Trial selfBACK for People With Low Back Pain: Protocol for Implementation and Process Evaluation
Authors: Rasmussen Charlotte Diana Nørregaard , Svendsen Malene Jagd , Wood Karen , Nicholl Barbara I , Mair Frances S , Sandal Louise Fleng , Mork Paul Jarle , Søgaard Karen , Bach Kerstin , Stochkendahl Mette Jensen
Published: September 2020

Background

Implementation and process evaluation is vital for understanding how interventions function in different settings, including if and why interventions have different effects or do not work at all.

Objective

This paper presents the protocol for an implementation and process evaluation embedded in a multicenter randomized controlled trial conducted in Denmark and Norway (the selfBACK project). selfBACK is a data-driven decision support system that provides participants with weekly self-management plans for low back pain. These plans are delivered through a smartphone app and tailored to individual participants by using case-based reasoning methodology. In the trial, we compare selfBACK in addition to usual care with usual care alone.

Methods

The aim of this study is to conduct a convergent mixed-methods implementation and process evaluation of the selfBACK app by following the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance framework. We will evaluate the process of implementing selfBACK and investigate how participants use the intervention in daily life. The evaluation will also cover the reach of the intervention, health care provider willingness to adopt it, and participant satisfaction with the intervention. We will gather quantitative measures by questionnaires and measures of data analytics on app use and perform a qualitative exploration of the implementation using semistructured interviews theoretically informed by normalization process theory. Data collection will be conducted between March 2019 and October 2020.

Results

The trial opened for recruitment in February 2019. This mixed-methods implementation and evaluation study is embedded in the randomized controlled trial and will be collecting data from March 2019 to October 2020; dissemination of trial results is planned thereafter. The results from the process evaluation are expected 2021-2022.

Conclusions

This study will provide a detailed understanding of how self-management of low back pain can be improved and how a digital health intervention can be used as an add-on to usual care to support patients to self-manage their low back pain. We will provide knowledge that can be used to explore the possibilities of extending the generic components of the selfBACK system and key drivers that could be of use in other conditions and diseases where self-management is an essential prevention or treatment strategy.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03798288; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03798288

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/20308
Applying Serious Game Elements to Enhance the Flood Safety Training Apps (Preprint)
Authors: Serious Game For Flood Safety Training Nursyahida ,   Serious Game For Flood Safety Training,   Serious Game For Flood Safety Training,   Serious Game For Flood Safety Training
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Serious games are created for other than entertainment purposes. Training is one of the areas where serious games are used that must have a combination of elements which contribute to the training outcomes. The right combination of elements May lead to productive development of serious games. There are serious games that have been developed; however, there is a lack of elements in the game that can motivate players. In addition, Previous serious games used for training have less use element of scenario and feedback. Moreover, These fail to provide domain content to attain the game 's goals, as they focus more on entertainment.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this paper is to describe a process to evaluate the model of a serious game for flood safety training based on the elements of serious games and psychology readiness which can motivate civilians to be aware of the importance of flood preparedness in terms of safety.

METHODS

These elements are then categorized and used to construct a model which are validated by a panel of eight experts using the Inter-Rater Reliability (IRR) method.

RESULTS

The result of IRR percentage for the game elements has achieved 100%, while the result of IRR percentage for psychology readiness has reached 83%, and the overall result of IRR percentage has gained 93%.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, this model can be adapted to develop serious games for training in other fields and for other purposes. For future phases, verified models will be used to develop low fidelity prototype. Subsequently, the low fidelity prototype can be validated using the cognitive walkthrough method.
Paradigma Maritim dalam Membangun Indonesia: Belajar dari Sejarah
Authors: Sulistiyono Singgih Tri
Published: September 2020

This article discusses the importance of the maritime paradigm in Indonesian national development. The maritime paradigm or what was once called as the maritime concept (wawasan bahari) or archipelagic concept (wawasan nusantara) is a development concept based on Indonesian identity as a maritime nation. The reinterpretation of this maritime paradigm is important in the context of the present period. First, to develop a clear conceptual and legal basis to the idea of the maritime state. Second, to implement in a practical manner the idea of the maritime state in the economic, political, social and cultural developments. By revitalizing and reinterpreting the maritime paradigm that is in line with the national identity it is hoped that national development based on the maritime state framework could achieve an optimal result.
Asing di Tanah Kelahiran: Pergulatan Identitas Pengungsi Bali - Timor Timur Pasca Orde Baru
Authors: Mas Martayana I Putu Hendra
Published: September 2020

The article discusses the ambiguity regarding the identity of ex-East Timorese transmigrant who have returned to Bali. These were people who had migrated to Bali since the 1980s and who have decided to return to their land of origin after the Act of Free Choice referendum had opted for East Timorese independence. During the return of the ex-East Timorese refugees, Bali was undergoing a process of cultural reification. The height of which was pushed by the first Bali bombing in 2002 which heralded the rise of the ‘ajeg Bali’ or Bali first movement. This was the result of the polemics that had arisen amongst organic intellectual thinkers.
Digital Worksheet Design Based of STEAM to Develop Students’ Problem Solving Skill
Authors: Yuntiaji Dhea Andryos , Lukman Hamidah Suryani , Imswatama Aritsya
Published: September 2020

Masih rendahnya kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa dalam memecahkan masalah khususnya soal matematika perlu menjadi perhatian bagi semua. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan desain LKS digital berbasis STEAM untuk mengembangkan kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu penelitian R&D dengan model pengembangan ADDIE yang terbatas pada tahap perancangan (design). Proses desain dari LKS ini melalui dua tahapan yaitu analisis (analyze) meliputi (1) analisis kebutuhan, (2) analisis karakteristik siswa, (3) analisis kurikulum bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan siswa, mengetahui batasan materi, dan juga perlu tidaknya pengembangan LKS ini dilakukan. Tahap kedua yaitu perancangan (design), peneliti mendesain LKS digital setelah dilakukan peta penyusunan LKS, penyusunan desain isi LKS, dan juga pengumpulan referensi. Hasil dari perancangan (design) ini adalah desain penyajian soal pemecahan masalah berupa tema permasalahan yang memuat konsep matematika dengan tahapan proses pemecahan masalah menggunakan pendekatan STEAM bertujuan memenuhi indikator pemecahan masalah.
Optimization of wall components for encapsulation of Nigella sativa seed oil by freeze-drying
Authors: Makouie Sina , Alizadeh Mohammad , Maleki Omid , Khosrowshahi Asghar
Published: September 2020

The aim of the present study was to determine the proper concentrations of whey protein isolate (WPI), Arabic gum (AG), and Zedo gum (ZG) for the encapsulation of Nigella sativa seed oil (NSO). WPI, AG, and ZG were used as wall materials for the encapsulation of NSO by mixture design and then the optimum sample with minimum Z-average, PDI, and a* and maximum zeta potential, conductivity, encapsulation efficiency, and b* was selected for examining FT-IR and SEM. The findings demonstrated that lower particle size and particle dispersion index were obtained at higher amounts of AG and WPI with the least a*. Desirability function results indicate that the mixture of 39.05% WPI, 16.758% AG, and 4.192% ZG led to the production of the optimum sample. Microencapsulation of Nigella sativa seed oil using the optimum wall composition was recognized to be useful to preserve bioactive compounds and provide flavor stability, enabling the use of microcapsules in food formulations.