bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Purification of syncytia -producing peptide as a potential therapeutic agent for cancer and viral infection
Authors: Koga Michiko , Tei Sokoku , Watanabe Manabu , Sato Sakiko , Tanabe Kazuhiro
Published: March 2021

Virus-induced syncytium formation, or cell fusion, has been investigated as a potential therapeutic approach for cancer. HVJ virus infection or transfection of membrane glycoproteins of virions have been known to cause syncytium formation in affected cells. Also, it was known that other enveloped viruses such as Herpes viruses, leukaemia viruses induce cell fusion. However, substances or molecules that directly cause syncytium formation have not been identified to date. Here, we identify a peptide that efficiently induces syncytia and report its structure, as an actionable therapeutic agent for cancer and viral infection. We purified and identified the fusion factor from the exosomes of the cells infected with murine leukaemia virus but not producing viruses by column chromatography, mass spectrometry, and amino acid analyses. We confirmed the peptide purified from the cell culture media and synthesized peptides induce syncytia as well as the murine leukaemia viruses, or the membranes or exosomes of MuLV infected cell lines in RFL cells and several cancer cell lines leading to apoptosis. And this peptide suppresses in vivo growth of cancer cells significantly. Furthermore, we found the synthesized peptide can cause fusion of enveloped virions as well as virus infected cells or cancer cell lines. These results nominate the use of this peptide as a potentially promising therapeutic approach for cancer and viral infection through efficient induction of syncytium formation followed apoptosis.
Neural stem cells reversed disease symptoms in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mouse model of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Brown Christina , McKee Christina , Halassy Sophia , Kojan Suleiman , Feinstein Douglas , Chaudhry G. Rasul
Published: March 2021

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). MS affects millions of people and causes a great economic and societal burden. Currently used treatment drugs have side effects and only address the symptoms but not the causes of MS. In this study, a novel approach of transplanting neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from human primitive mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) was investigated in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of MS.
Methods

Primitive MSCs were differentiated into NSCs using selective media. The cells were labeled with PKH26 and injected into the tail vein of EAE mice. The animals were evaluated for changes in neurobehavior and weight twice daily. Two weeks following cell transplantation, the animals were sacrificed to collect the blood, lymphatic and CNS tissues for analysis. FACS analysis was used to track labeled cells and infiltrates. Histochemical analysis was performed to determine the levels of myelination. Expression of inflammation, neural, astrogliosis, neuroprotection, and myelination markers was investigated by using immunohistochemical and qRT-PCR analyses.
Results

Neurobehavioral assays showed that EAE disease process was halted by transplantation of both MSCs and NSCs. However, NSCs showed greater efficacy in reversing the disease symptoms, which resulted in near complete recovery of EAE animals. Post-transplantation analyses also showed homing of transplanted cells into the CNS with concomitant induction of anti-inflammatory response resulting in reduction of immune infiltrates. Luxol fast blue staining intensity of CNS tissues was significantly improved in treated mice as compared to EAE animals, suggesting endogenous remyelination. NSC transplantation also modulated Treg and Th17 cells in EAE mice to levels comparable to healthy controls. In addition, several of the markers associated with neuroprotection (i.e. Igf, Bdnf, and Trkb), myelination (i.e. Erk2, Krox-20, Oct-6, Mpz, Mbp, and Mog) and neurogenesis (i.e. Tuj1 and Nestin) were upregulated, suggesting endogenous regeneration in treated animals.
Conclusions

Cell transplantation was more effective at an earlier point of EAE disease (EAE stage 1) than later (EAE stage 2). These promising results provide basis for large-scale clinical studies to treat MS using NSCs derived from primitive MSCs.
RECURRENT RESPIRATORY DISEASES AND HUMORAL IMMUNE STATUS IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
Authors: Voloshin O.M. , Marushko Yu.V. , Dontsova K.M.
Published: March 2021

Currently, acute respiratory infections (ARI) are obviously considered to be the most topical issue of pediatric practice. It is worth noted that the age peculiarities of immune system in preschool children stipulated their higher vulnerability to infections and less differentiated response against infection process compared to older children and adults. Research aim consisted in finding out significant factors which are closely associated with serum immunoglobulin (Ig) levels in preschool children against the background of recurrent ARI.
Seasonal variations of pollutants removal and microbial activity in integrated constructed wetland–microbial fuel cell systems
Authors: Wang Xiaoou , Tian Yimei
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the seasonal variations of pollutants removal and microbial activity in constructed wetland–microbial fuel cell systems (CW–MFCs). The results showed that the atmospheric temperature significantly influenced the bioelectricity generation and removal of organics and nitrogen in CW–MFCs by primarily influencing the microbial enzymatic activity. The electricity output of CW-MFCs was extremely low below 5 °C, and reached the maximum above 25 °C. The organics and nitrogen removal of closed-circuit CW–MFC reached the highest in summer and autumn, followed by spring, and decreased by an average of 10.5% COD, 14.2% NH3-N and 10.7% TN in winter, demonstrating smaller seasonal fluctuations compared to open-circuit CW–MFC in which the difference between summer and winter was 13.4% COD, 15.1% NH3-N and 15.1% TN. Even at low temperatures, the MFC current could enhance the enzymatic activity and stabilize the growth of microorganisms on the electrodes, moreover, the closed circuit operation can promote the bacteria diversity on CW–MFC anodes as well as the abundance of electrogens on CW–MFC anodes and cathodes, and thus reduce the adverse effect of cooling on organics and nitrogen removal in CWs. However, neither MFC nor temperature had a significant influence on phosphorus removal in CW–MFCs.
Serum Sickness Reaction to Rituximab with Positive Immediate Intradermal Skin Test: A Case Report
Authors: Palomino-Lozano Laura , Noguerado-Mellado Blanca , Quirós Jimena Crespo , Tejero-Alcalde Melina , Cuevas-Bravo Cristina , Zavala Borja Bartolomé , Rojas-Perez-Ezquerra Patricia
Published: March 2021

Background:

Rituximab is a chimeric murine/human monoclonal antibody against CD20. It can be used off-label in autoimmune diseases. Its administration can
lead to several types of reactions; immediate infusional reactions and also delayed reactions like Serum Sickness Reaction (SSR).

Case presentation:

This is a case study of a 48 years old woman diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis/systemic lupus erythematosus who developed refractory immune
thrombocytopenic purpura and received treatment with rituximab. After treatment, she developed erythematous-violet lesions accompanied with
fever of 38ºC, dyspnea, joints arthralgia and edema. In the emergency department, hypotension, fever, dyspnea, and shivering were observed, for
which, intramuscular epinephrine, intravenous corticosteroids, antibiotics and salbutamol nebulization were administered. In our allergy unit, we
performed an intradermal test (IDT) with rituximab (1mg/ml), which was positive at immediate (20min) and late (48h) reading. Based on the
clinical manifestations and test carried out, she was diagnosed with rituximab SSR. We also studied the molecular mass of the IgE-reactive
proteins present in rituximab product by SDS-PAGE Immunoblotting method according to Laemmli, in reducing and non-reducing conditions,
with high sensitivity and using three different polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membrane blocking substances (skimmed cow's milk, fish
collagen and egg white). We did not detect IgE-binding to rituximab product.

Conclusion:

The pathogenesis of SSR is not well known. The patients after reinfusion can develop immediate reactions suggesting involvement of IgE
hypersensitivity. Nevertheless, there are patients who tolerated reinfusion. Further studies and assays are needed for a better understanding of these
reactions and to lead to a safer re-administration if needed.
Withdrawal Notice: Identification of the Interaction between Angiotensin-converting Enzyme Residues and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
Authors: Kadil Youness , Mouhcine Mohammed , Rahmoune Imane , Filali Houda
Published: March 2021

The article has been withdrawn by the Editorial office of the journal Current Pharmaceutical Design. The decision is reached by all authors, for below reasons:

• Data been published should be updated.

• New approach of this study and new results mentioning the vaccine and its interaction with ACE2.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

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

BENTHAM SCIENCE DISCLAIMER:

It is a condition of publication that manuscripts submitted to this journal have not been published and will not be simultaneously submitted or
published elsewhere. Furthermore, any data, illustration, structure or table that has been published elsewhere must be reported, and copyright
permission for reproduction must be obtained. Plagiarism is strictly forbidden, and by submitting the article for publication the authors agree that the
publishers have the legal right to take appropriate action against the authors, if plagiarism or fabricated information is discovered. By submitting a
manuscript, the authors agree that the copyright of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
Synthesis of Heterocyclic Compounds through Multicomponent Reactions Using 6-Aminouracil as Starting Reagent
Authors: Ziarani Ghodsi Mohammadi , Rad Marzieh , Mohajer Fatemeh , Sehrawat Hitesh , Tomar Ravi
Published: March 2021

The analogs of 6-Amino uracil are essential components due to their biological
activities. The uracil is used as an important component for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds
like pyrrolo-, pyrido-, pyrimidine-pyrimido scaffolds. Herein, the application of this
compound is reviewed as a precursor in the synthesis of many heterocyclic cores from 2016 to
2020.
Anti-inflammatory Activity of Mollugo cerviana Methanolic Extract in
LPS-induced Acute Inflammatory RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Biju Prabath Gopalakrishnan , Antony Robina , Raveendran Jijin
Published: March 2021

Background:

The management of acute inflammation, which arises from complex biological responses to harmful stimuli, is an important determinant in recovery of the system from an otherwise detrimental outcome such as septicemia. However, the side effects and limitations of current therapeutics necessitate the development of newer and safer alternatives. Mollugo cerviana is a common medicinal herb of the Indian subcontinent and has been traditionally used for its fever mitigating, anti-microbial and hepatoprotective action. We have already reported the rich presence of radical scavenging phytochemicals in the plant extracts and their strong antioxidant properties.

Objective:

In the present study, we have evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of methanolic extract (ME) of the areal parts of M. cerviana in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute inflammatory cell culture model.

Method:

RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages cell were stimulated by the bacterial endotoxin LPS at a concentration of 1 µg/mL. Cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory potential of ME were carried out.

Results:

M. cerviana extract concentration up to 150 µg/ml was found to be non-toxic to cells (MTT and NRU assay). LPS induces acute inflammation by binding to TLR-4 receptors, initiating downstream signalling cascade that result in pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion. Extract treatment at 100 µg/ml suppressed LPS-induced gene expression (qPCR) and secretion (ELISA) of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, and the chemokine CCL2, indicating a dampening of the acute inflammatory cascade. LPS-induced elevation of ROS level (DCFDA method) was significant reduced by extract treatment. Nitric oxide production, as indicated by nitrite level, was significantly reduced post extract treatment.

Conclusion:

From this study, it is demonstrated that M. cerviana methanolic extract has potent anti-inflammatory effect in the in vitro acute inflammation model of LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. There is not reported study so far on the anti-inflammatory properties of M. cerviana in an LPS-induced acute inflammatory model which closely mimics a human bacteremia response. Hence, this study highlights the therapeutic potential of this extract as a source of anti-inflammatory lead molecules.
Investigations on Synergistic and Antioxidant Actions of Medicinal Plant-
Based Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Against E.coli and K.
pneumonia Bacteria
Authors: Rafique Muhammad , Rashid Farzana , Pervaiz Iqra , Malik Husna , Kanwal Zakia , Gillani Syed Sajid Ali
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Bacterial resistance to multiple drugs is increasing at an alarming rate in current era and nanotechnology is one of the effective and novel approaches to overcome drug resistance.

Methods:

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) has stronger antibacterial activity and is regarded as bio-safe nanomaterial. The aim of present study is to synthesize the ZnO NPs using Aloe vera leaves extract and to investigate the synergistic effects and antioxidant actions of bio-synthesized ZnO NPs against gram negative bacteria E.coli and K. pneumoniae. The synergistic effect of β-lactam antibiotics (meropenem and ciprofloxacin) was tested along with ZnO NPs by using Kirby’s disc diffusion assay. The antioxidant activity was investigated by α, α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method.

Results:

Results revealed that the antibacterial activity of the selected antibiotics was much enhanced by ZnO NPs than the antibiotics alone. The resistant antibiotic (ciprofloxacin) became sensitive when combined with ZnO NPs. The antioxidant activity reveals that biosynthesized ZnO NPs possess significantly higher (p<0.05) antioxidant activity (77%).

Conclusion:

The findings reveal that biosynthesized ZnO NPs have much more eco-friendly approach. It can act as a strong potentiator of β-lactam antibiotics and put forward the possibility to use them effectively in targeted drug delivery, pharmaceuticals and biomedical fields.
The Role of Mechanical Regulation in Cartilage Tissue Engineering
Authors: Zhang Shujiang , Yao Yongchang
Published: March 2021

Due to the lack of vascular distribution and the slow metabolism, cartilage tissue cannot
repair itself, which remains a huge challenge in cartilage regeneration. Tissue engineering using
stem cells appears to be a promising method for cartilage repair. Tissue engineers demonstrated
that mechanical stimulation can enhance the quality of engineered cartilage, making it more similar
to natural cartilage in structure and function. In this review, we summarize recent studies on the
role of mechanical stimuli in chondrogenesis, focusing on the applications of extrinsic mechanical
loading and the studies on mechanical properties of biomaterials in cartilage tissue engineering.
This review will provide fresh insights into the potential use of mechanical stimuli for clinical use.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Ogbodo John O. , Agbo Chinazom P. , Njoku Ugochi O. , Ogugofor Martins O. , Egba Simeon I. , Ihim Stella A. , Echezona Adaeze C. , Brendan Kenneth C. , Upaganlawar Aman B. , Upasani Chandrashekhar D.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. Genetics,
excessive exposure to environmental pollutants, as well as unhealthy lifestyle practices are often
linked to the development of AD. No therapeutic approach has achieved complete success in
treating AD; however, early detection and management with appropriate drugs are key to improving
prognosis.

Interventions:

The pathogenesis of AD was extensively discussed in order to understand the reasons
for the interventions suggested. The interventions reviewed include the use of different therapeutic
agents and approaches, gene therapy, adherence to healthy dietary plans (Mediterranean diet,
Okinawan diet and MIND diet), as well as the use of medicinal plants. The potential of nanotechnology
as a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach in the design of nano-formulations
of AD drugs and the use of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs) as theranostic
tools for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease were also discussed.
Role of Wireless Body Area Networks in Intelligent Transportation Systems: A Survey
Authors: Chhabra Rishu , Prabaharan Beski , Aggarwal Rashmi
Published: March 2021

The employment of wireless body sensors for different applications like healthcare and
transportation systems has been a key research area. The hybrid systems that combine the wearable
wireless sensor technology for safety applications in transportation infrastructure to save the
life of the drivers and Vulnerable Road Users (VRU) like cyclists and pedestrians is another step
towards the aim of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to improve safety on roads. The systems
in the literature involve the use of sensors fixed on or around the body of the driver and/or
pedestrian, sensors embedded in smart devices like smartphone, smartwatch, and tablets, etc. to
alert the drivers and pedestrians in advance to prevent the probability of collision and prevent road
accidents. The sensors are able to detect the behavior of the driver and identify whether he/she is
fit for driving a vehicle. The presence of a distracted pedestrian is another cause of the collision,
and nearby vehicles should be informed about the same. In this paper, different systems in the literature
that employ wireless body sensors to improve the safety of the commute have been reviewed.
The techniques reviewed in this paper focus on the safety of the driver and
VRU/pedestrian. The paper concludes by presenting key challenges and future research directions
to prevent accidents by the integration of wireless body sensor networks as a part of an intelligent
transportation system.
PEMETAAN KULTUR SEKOLAH UNTUK MENDISEMINASIKAN KEUNGGULAN: MODEL GUGUS DARI SEKOLAH INTI KE SEKOLAH IMBAS
Authors: Sukardi Joko Sri , Efianingrum Ariefa , Siswoyo Dwi
Published: March 2021

Belum meratanya capaian kualitas pendidikan di sekolah dapat berimplikasi pada ketimpangan kualitas pendidikan antarsekolah. Pada era otonomi daerah, Pemerintah Daerah khususnya Dinas Pendidikan memiliki keleluasaan dan kewenangan dalam memajukan kualitas pendidikan di daerahnya. Pemetaan kultur sekolah yang efektif dengan model gugus penting dilakukan untuk mendapatkan gambaran kualitas serta mengetahui keunggulan dan kelemahan sekolah. Keunggulan sekolah inti dapat didiseminasikan kepada sekolah imbas. Keunggulan yang dimaksud meliputi kualitas akademik maupun non akademik. Praktik yang baik di sekolah inti dapat menjadi rujukan dan inspirasi bagi sekolah imbas. Sekolah imbas dapat mengadopsi dan mengadaptasinya untuk meningkatkan keunggulan sekolah. Sekolah imbas dapat menentukan keunggulan yang sesuai dengan konteks sekolah dan wilayahnya masing-masing. Dengan demikian, semua sekolah berpeluang untuk berkembang dalam memajukan sekolahnya dan ketimpangan kualitas pendidikan antarsekolah dapat diminimalisir. Kata kunci: Diseminasi, Kultur Sekolah, Model Gugus
Biochemical response to sport related anxiety
Authors: Dinter Sandra , Detel Dijana , Batičić Lara
Published: March 2021

The goal of each professional athlete is to reach maximal performance. In order to achieve that, physical as well as mental training needs to be part of a regular training routine. Anxiety significantly affects athletic performance while extreme anxiety levels are associated with reduced athletic achievements. Therefore, controlling sport-related anxiety seems to be one of the most significant aspects for elite athletes. In order to understand the biology behind sport-related anxiety, this review is focused on the biochemical responses to such a stressor. Knowing the biochemistry of stress and its limiting factors on athletic performance enables us a greater understanding of the influence of anxiety on professional athletes. It might help to better understand the importance of sport psychology and how our mindset influences our performance. Furthermore, the correlation between the placebo effect and the manner in which the mind controls the body are considered as it might prove an important tool for future athletic training and sport psychology.
Application of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in lymphoma patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Tokmadžić Dorian , Juričić Kazimir , Novosel Matilda , Protić Alen
Published: March 2021

Aim: To report the clinical courses of two patients, one with Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) and one with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), who developed severe refractory acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and were treated with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO). Case report: Both patients developed chemotherapy-associated febrile neutropenia followed by pneumonia and ARDS, after which they were transferred to the intensive care unit. Their respiratory failure deteriorated despite endotracheal intubation with protective mechanical ventilation, at which point a decision for VV ECMO initiation was made. Both patients had complicated treatment courses and developed severe ECMO-associated complications. The most important complications of ECMO support in our HL patient were cardiac arrest; right atrial laceration with pericardial tamponade which needed surgical treatment; right leg ischemia which required transfemoral amputation; thrombosis within the membrane oxygenator; several septic episodes with severe hemodynamic instability; and right sided tension pneumothorax. Despite all difficulties, the patient was successfully weaned from ECMO. Unfortunately, he died prior to hospital discharge as a result of sepsis with multiple organ failure. The most significant ECMO-induced complications in our NHL patient were severe bleeding incidents, most notably diffuse oropharyngeal and continuous bilateral pulmonary hemorrhage; superimposed bacterial pneumonia; extensive pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema. Despite all therapeutic efforts, the patient died during ECMO treatment because of respiratory decompensation. Conclusions: The patients with hematologic malignancies (HMs) undergoing ECMO support have poor outcomes, with high rates of severe ECMO-induced complications. Further studies focusing on patient selection and issues concerning prevention, diagnosis and treatment of ECMO-associated complications are needed.
Sindrom Rapunzel – rijedak uzrok akutnog pankreatitisa
Authors: Matko Lucija , Palčevski Goran , Baraba Dekanić Kristina , Nikolić Harry , Bosak Veršić Ana
Published: March 2021

Cilj: Osvijestiti o mogućnosti postojanja sindroma Rapunzel u adolescentica s akutnim pankreatitisom. Prikaz slučaja: U hitnu pedijatrijsku ambulantu javila se petnaestogodišnja djevojka zbog povremenih bolova u gornjem dijelu abdomena koji su se intenzivirali par dana pred dolazak. Prilikom fizikalnog pregleda nađena je u epigastriju i lijevom hipohondriju bolna rezistencija veličine otprilike 10 cm u promjeru. Opsežnom laboratorijskom analizom našle su se povišene koncentracije enzima gušterače te se postavila dijagnoza akutnog pankreatitisa. Daljnjom obradom indicirala se gastroskopija kojom se prikazala masa kose na ulazu u želudac. Kompjutoriziranom tomografijom uočilo se da ona seže sve do bulbusa duodenuma. Nakon provedenog konzervativnog liječenja pankreatitisa abdominalni bolovi su regredirali, došlo je do normalizacije enzima gušterače te je bilo indicirano operativno liječenje. Učinila se eksplorativna laparotomija i gastrotomija. Ekstirpirao se trihobezoar težine 1 kg i dužine 25 cm oblika odljeva lumena želuca i početnog dijela duodenuma. Postavila se dijagnoza sindroma Rapunzel. Dječji psihijatar potvrdio je prisutnu trihotilomaniju i trihofagiju te se djevojku uključilo u psihoterapijski tretman. Zaključak: Sindrom Rapunzel vrlo je rijetko stanje, ali treba biti uključeno u diferencijalnu dijagnozu akutnog pankreatitisa u adolescenata. Specifični simptomi trihotilomanije i trihofagije u kombinaciji s nespecifičnim simptomima, poput dugotrajnog bola u abdomenu, trebali bi pobuditi sumnju na razvoj trihobezoara.
COVID-19 Discourse on Twitter in Four Asian Countries: Case Study of Risk Communication
Authors: Park Sungkyu , Han Sungwon , Kim Jeongwook , Molaie Mir Majid , Vu Hoang Dieu , Singh Karandeep , Han Jiyoung , Lee Wonjae , Cha Meeyoung
Published: March 2021

Background

COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to a global pandemic. The World Health Organization has also declared an infodemic (ie, a plethora of information regarding COVID-19 containing both false and accurate information circulated on the internet). Hence, it has become critical to test the veracity of information shared online and analyze the evolution of discussed topics among citizens related to the pandemic.

Objective

This research analyzes the public discourse on COVID-19. It characterizes risk communication patterns in four Asian countries with outbreaks at varying degrees of severity: South Korea, Iran, Vietnam, and India.

Methods

We collected tweets on COVID-19 from four Asian countries in the early phase of the disease outbreak from January to March 2020. The data set was collected by relevant keywords in each language, as suggested by locals. We present a method to automatically extract a time–topic cohesive relationship in an unsupervised fashion based on natural language processing. The extracted topics were evaluated qualitatively based on their semantic meanings.

Results

This research found that each government’s official phases of the epidemic were not well aligned with the degree of public attention represented by the daily tweet counts. Inspired by the issue-attention cycle theory, the presented natural language processing model can identify meaningful transition phases in the discussed topics among citizens. The analysis revealed an inverse relationship between the tweet count and topic diversity.

Conclusions

This paper compares similarities and differences of pandemic-related social media discourse in Asian countries. We observed multiple prominent peaks in the daily tweet counts across all countries, indicating multiple issue-attention cycles. Our analysis identified which topics the public concentrated on; some of these topics were related to misinformation and hate speech. These findings and the ability to quickly identify key topics can empower global efforts to fight against an infodemic during a pandemic.
Voice-Based Conversational Agents for the Prevention and Management of Chronic and Mental Health Conditions: Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bérubé Caterina , Schachner Theresa , Keller Roman , Fleisch Elgar , v Wangenheim Florian , Barata Filipe , Kowatsch Tobias
Published: March 2021

Background

Chronic and mental health conditions are increasingly prevalent worldwide. As devices in our everyday lives offer more and more voice-based self-service, voice-based conversational agents (VCAs) have the potential to support the prevention and management of these conditions in a scalable manner. However, evidence on VCAs dedicated to the prevention and management of chronic and mental health conditions is unclear.

Objective

This study provides a better understanding of the current methods used in the evaluation of health interventions for the prevention and management of chronic and mental health conditions delivered through VCAs.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature review using PubMed MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. We included primary research involving the prevention or management of chronic or mental health conditions through a VCA and reporting an empirical evaluation of the system either in terms of system accuracy, technology acceptance, or both. A total of 2 independent reviewers conducted the screening and data extraction, and agreement between them was measured using Cohen kappa. A narrative approach was used to synthesize the selected records.

Results

Of 7170 prescreened papers, 12 met the inclusion criteria. All studies were nonexperimental. The VCAs provided behavioral support (n=5), health monitoring services (n=3), or both (n=4). The interventions were delivered via smartphones (n=5), tablets (n=2), or smart speakers (n=3). In 2 cases, no device was specified. A total of 3 VCAs targeted cancer, whereas 2 VCAs targeted diabetes and heart failure. The other VCAs targeted hearing impairment, asthma, Parkinson disease, dementia, autism, intellectual disability, and depression. The majority of the studies (n=7) assessed technology acceptance, but only few studies (n=3) used validated instruments. Half of the studies (n=6) reported either performance measures on speech recognition or on the ability of VCAs to respond to health-related queries. Only a minority of the studies (n=2) reported behavioral measures or a measure of attitudes toward intervention-targeted health behavior. Moreover, only a minority of studies (n=4) reported controlling for participants’ previous experience with technology. Finally, risk bias varied markedly.

Conclusions

The heterogeneity in the methods, the limited number of studies identified, and the high risk of bias show that research on VCAs for chronic and mental health conditions is still in its infancy. Although the results of system accuracy and technology acceptance are encouraging, there is still a need to establish more conclusive evidence on the efficacy of VCAs for the prevention and management of chronic and mental health conditions, both in absolute terms and in comparison with standard health care.
The Application of "Sets" of Discrete Mathematics everyday in life
Authors: Hermawanti Ninda Putri , Dona Elsa
Published: March 2021

Mathematics is related to something that can be calculated or something expressed in terms of quantity (number). There are so many economic variables (concepts) that are quantified, such as the price of goods, the amount of goods demanded and offered, the money supply, the level of profit sharing margin, national income, investment level, and so on. Mathematics does not only play a role in quantifying economic variables, but also explores the relationship between economic variables. The relationship of an economic variable with other economic variables is often expressed in the form of an economic model. Because economic variables can be quantified, these economic models can be expressed in the form of mathematical symbols / models.
Desain Steganografi untuk Keamanan Gambar dengan Algoritma RSA dan LSB Berbasis Android
Authors: Haryanto Edy Victor
Published: March 2021

Keamanan data sangatlah penting saat ini apalagi dikirim melalui handphone android agar tidak diketahui oleh orang lain. Dalam penelitian ini dengan menggunakan metode RSA untuk mengeknripsi file plaintext dan juga menggunakan kunci sebelum dikirim ke sipenerima, plaintext tersebut akan diubah kedalam bentuk ASCII kemudian diubah ke dalam bentuk biner agar dapat disisip kedalam gambar dengan menggunakan LSB. Dengan menggunakan teknik kriptografi dengan algoritma RSA menjadi pilihan untuk mengubah pesan menjadi tidak terbaca lagi karena sampai saat ni algoritma RSA dinilai yang masih bagus tingkat keamanan nya. Pesan yang disembunyikan ke menyisipkan bit – bit pesan kedalam dalam pixel atau bit – bit pada gambar, sehingga perubahan gambar sebelum dan sesudah dilakukan penyisipan pesan tidak akan berubah dan tidak dapat dilihat oleh indra manusia. Dalam hal ini objek yang digunakan adalah gambar berekstension JPG ukuran citra 3888x2592.
ANALISIS PERBANDINGAN KORELASI SPEARMAN DAN MAXIMAL INFORMATION COEFFICIENT DALAM SELEKSI FITUR WEBSITE PHISHING MENGGUNAKAN ALGORITMA MACHINE LEARNING
Authors: Moedjahedy Jimmy H. , Setyanto Arief , Aryasa Komang
Published: March 2021

aan yang menipu maupun secara teknis untuk mencuri data identitas pribadi konsumen dan kredensial akun keuangan. Phishing dirancang untuk mengarahkan konsumen ke website phishing yang menipu penerima untuk membocorkan data keuangan seperti nama pengguna dan kata sandi. Dalam dataset phishing, terdapat fitur-fitur yang bisa mengkategorikan apakah sebuah website adalah website phishing atau bukan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk membandingkan hasil seleksi fitur-fitur yang ada dengan menggunakan dua metode yaitu metode gabungan Maximal Information coefficient dan Total Information Coefficient dengan metode korelasi Spearman. Hasil seleksi diuji dengan lima algoritma machine learning yaitu, Logistic Regression, Naïve Bayes, J48, AdaBoost MI dan Random Forest. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah metode gabungan Maximal Information coefficent dan Total Information Coefficient memiliki nilai akurasi 97.25 % dengan menggunakan Random Forest mengungguli metode korelasi Spearman dengan nilai akurasi 95,33%.
The newsworthiness of the “March for Science” in Germany: comparing news factors in journalistic media and on Twitter
Authors: Guenther Lars , Ruhrmann Georg , Zaremba Mercedes C. , Weigelt Natalie
Published: March 2021

Germany was second in the number of March for Science participants. Applying news value theory, this article analyzes the newsworthiness of the 2018 March for Science in Germany, comparing journalistic (online) reporting on the march (N=86) and Twitter communication about #marchforscience (N=591). The results of the content analyses reveal that news factors were more frequent and reached higher intensities in journalistic reporting than on Twitter. Relevance, prominence, personalization, and influence were the news factors most emphasized by journalists. On Twitter, reach was the only news factor correlating with social media engagement (likes, comments, and retweets).
Computational study on distribution feasibility of radioactive waste transmutation in accelerator driven system
Authors: Al Qaaod Amer , Pavlovych Volodymyr , Ridikas Danas , Gulik Volodymyr , Amin Esmat
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the feasibility of high-level radioactive waste transmutation
in accelerator driven system sub-critical reactor assembly, has been studied
for two zone's model and with three different core configurations. The inner
zone has a fast neutron spectrum and the outer one has a thermal neutron
spectrum. The subcritical core is coupled with external neutron source of
energy 14 MeV (D-T source). The effects of high level waste isotopes sample
(238Pu, 239Pu, 240Pu, 241Pu, 242Pu, 241Am, 243Am, 244Cm, and 245Cm)
distribution on the neutron spectrum and burnup performance in the inner
zone have been investigated and discussed, by proposed three core
configurations non-uniform, uniform, and spiral. The burnup calculations
have been performed for one-year operation cycle for all the all proposed
models. This work shows that one can effectively transmute most of the
actual minor actinides isotopes in the inner fast spectrum zone of the
proposed system, with optimal distribution of these isotopes.
Passive and active shielding against electromagnetic radiation
Authors: Djekic Sasa , Nikezic Dusan , Brajovic Dragan , Kartalovic Nenad , Ramadani Uzahir
Published: March 2021

In nuclear physics experiments, it is very important to isolate the measured
quantities from electromagnetic noise. Without this possibility, it is
impossible to obtain usable experimental results since natural
electromagnetic noise can be several orders of magnitude larger than the
measured magnitude. In order to enable such measurements, it is necessary to
eliminate electromagnetic noise from the experimental procedure. This is
achieved by shielding against electromagnetic radiation. In this paper,
experiments were performed to protect a room from electromagnetic noise. By
applying all known methods of shielding against electromagnetic radiation,
it was concluded that the room can be protected from the electrical
component, but it is impossible to protect it from the magnetic component of
electromagnetic radiation.
Filament material evaluation for breast phantom fabrication using three-dimensional printing
Authors: Lee Jin-Soo , Jo Yong-In , Kang Yeong-Rok , Kye Yong-Uk , Il Park , Lee Dong-Yeon
Published: March 2021

In this study, a method of directly evaluating the dose received by the
highly radiation-sensitive mammary gland during mammography was
investigated, and a corresponding breast phantom was produced that expresses
a mammary gland, as an alternative to the existing mixed-form phantom. After
designing this breast phantom by performing Monte Carlo simulations, the
glandular dose was evaluated and compared with that of a mixed-form phantom.
Then, dose evaluation was conducted for current commercial filament
materials that could be used to fabricate the phantom by 3-D printing. The
results showed that the dose received by the mammary gland was in the range
of 1.089-1.237 mGy, and the average difference from that determined using
the mixed-form phantom was approximately 1.2 %. Among the filament
materials, polylactic acid showed the dose that was the most similar to that
of the mammary gland tissue, differing by approximately 2.4 %. Overall,
the research results suggest that it is meaningful to evaluate the glandular
dose using the developed phantom instead of a mixed-form phantom. Besides,
polylactic acid is the most appropriate material for fabricating the mammary
gland tissue using a 3-D printer.
Effect of aeration on production of biofungicide using Streptomyces hygroscopicus
Authors: Mitrovic Ivana , Grahovac Jovana , Dodic Jelena , Roncevic Zorana , Grahovac Mila
Published: March 2021

Apple fruit diseases caused by phytopathogenic species of the genus
Alternaria have become current in recent years in Serbia as well as in other
parts of the world. Due to the fact that pesticides have a number of side
effects on the environment and human health, scientists around the world are
concerned with finding alternative ways to control this important food.
Usage of microorganisms, optimization of the medium and process conditions
for their cultivation and production of biofungicides are the actual
research direction. The effect of aeration on biofungicide production by
Streptomyces hygroscopicus was studied in a 3 l stirred tank bioreactor
using a previously optimized cultivation medium with glycerol as a carbon
source. Aeration rates of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 vvm with constant agita?tion
speed of 100 rpm were studied. It was found that the greatest production of
antifungal metabolites effective against two Alternaria alternata isolates
occurred with an aeration of 1.5 vvm and an agitation speed of 100 rpm.
Statistical analysis showed that the largest inhi?bition zone diameters of
A. alternata KA10 (78 mm) and T1Jg3 (78.67 mm) mycelial growth were achieved
under the indicated conditions in 96 h of cultivation.
Effect of Trichoderma harzianum on morpho-physiological parameters and metal uptake of tomato plants
Authors: Vukelic Igor , Racic Gordana , Bojovic Mirjana , Curcic Natasa , Mrkajic Danica , Jovanovic Ljubinko , Pankovic Dejana
Published: March 2021

In this study we have investigated the effect of T. harzianum on growth,
content of chlorophyll and epidermal flavonols and metal distribution in
tomato plants. Trichoderma strain, isolated from the A horizon (5-30 cm) of
agricultural soil used in organic production, was applied near the root in
the sixth leaf development phase of tomato. Tomato plants were grown in a
growth cabinet up to the stage of 10 leaves. Content of chlorophyll (Chl),
epidermal flavonols (Flav) and antocyanins (Ant) were measured in vivo
non-destructively. The concentration of Cd, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Se, and
Zn was measured in different parts of tomato plants by ICP-OES method.
Results have shown that Trichoderma application positively affected growth
of tomato plants, and significantly decreased nitrogen balance index. In
Trichoderma treated plants the contents of Cr and Ni were significantly
reduced in roots, while content of Cd tended to decrease in all plant parts,
significantly in roots. Presented results indicate that investigated isolate
is worthwhile testing for plant growth promotion in field conditions, taking
in account different supply of macro and micronutrients.
Mercury pollution of sediments from the river Tisa (Serbia)
Authors: Strbac Snezana , Ninkov Jordana , Raicevic Petar , Vasic Nebojsa , Kasanin-Grubin Milica , Gajica Gordana , Milic Dubravka
Published: March 2021

Mercury (Hg) has been listed as a global high priority pollutant by many
international organizations due to its mobility and persistence in the
environments and high toxicity to organisms. This research was conducted
with the aims to determine: (i) total Hg content (THg) and its spatial
distribution in sediments of river Tisa along the river course, (ii)
possible sources of THg and (iii) degree of THg pollution in sediments from
the river Tisa through different criteria. Total Hg in the sediments ranged
from 0.07 to 0.49 mg kg-1, with mean ? S.D. value of 0.26 ? 0.10 mg kg-1.
The highest mean value of THg (0.30 mg kg-1) was found in the lower stream,
while the lowest (0.13 mg kg-1) was found in the tributary. According to
Principal Component Analyses (PCA) strong positive loading of metals in all
parts of the river Tisa is mainly controlled from the same sources. These
sources are related to anthropogenic activities based on calculated
Enrichment Factor (EF) values. Total Hg are higher than background value.
According to the Republic of Serbia official standard, THg values of river
Tisa sediments were within the range of maximum permissible values.
Compared with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
guideline, 80.49% of sediment samples indicated that THg in the river Tisa
sediments represented minimal and possible risk towards the living
organisms. Integrating the results of pollution assessment, it could be
concluded that THg in river Tisa sediments in Serbia demonstrates
considerable contamination according to Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo), and Contaminant Factor (CF), and high pollution risk according to Potential Environmental Risk Index (PERI).
Burst mode ablation of stainless steel with tunable ultrashort laser pulses
Authors: Lickschat Peter , Metzner Daniel , Weißmantel Steffen
Published: March 2021

In this study, an ultrashort pulse laser is used to investigate the removal efficiency and the ablation quality of stainless steel. The employed solid state laser is capable of varying the pulse duration from 0.27 to 10 ps and generates bursts with an intraburst pulse repetition frequency of 65 MHz with up to nine pulses per burst. Depending on the fluence per pulse, the pulse duration, and the number of pulses per burst, the removal efficiency and the ablation quality are presented and discussed based on the depth of the ablation structures and the surface roughness of the structured bottoms. The results prove that compared to pulse durations in the picosecond regime, the ablation efficiency in the femtosecond regime is significantly higher. The removal efficiency per burst is not affected by an increase in the number of pulses in the burst, but a smoothing effect can be identified for a certain number of pulses in the burst depending on the fluence and the pulse duration, which has a positive effect on the ablation quality. The temperature distribution and the heat accumulation induced by the high intraburst pulse repetition frequency are calculated with a semiempirical two-temperature model. The simulation results demonstrate that the melting film depth has a major influence on the smoothing effect caused by the burst mode.
Length of Stay in ICU of Covid-19 Patients in England, March - May 2020
Authors: Shryane Nick , Pampaka Maria , Aparicio Castro Andrea Lisette , Ahmad Shazaad , Elliot Mark , Kim Ji Hye , Murphy Jennifer , Olsen Wendy , Perez Ruiz Diego Andres , Wiśniowski Arkadiusz
Published: March 2021

IntroductionLength of Stay (LoS) in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) is an important measure for planning beds capacity during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, as the pandemic progresses and we learn more about the disease, treatment and subsequent LoS in ICU may change.
ObjectivesTo investigate the LoS in ICUs in England associated with Covid-19, correcting for censoring, and to evaluate the effect of known predictors of Covid-19 outcomes on ICU LoS.
Data sourcesWe used retrospective data on Covid-19 patients, admitted to ICU between 6 March and 24 May, from the “Covid-19 Hospitalisation in England Surveillance System” (CHESS) database, collected daily from England’s National Health Service, and collated by Public Health England.
MethodsWe used Accelerated Failure Time survival models with Weibull and log-normal distributional assumptions to investigate the effect of predictors, which are known to be associated with poor Covid-19 outcomes, on the LoS in ICU.
ResultsPatients admitted before 25 March had significantly longer LoS in ICU (mean = 18.4 days, median = 12), controlling for age, sex, whether the patient received Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation, and a co-morbid risk factors score, compared with the period after 7 April (mean = 15.4, median = 10). The periods of admission reflected the changes in the ICU admission policy in England. Patients aged 50-65 had the longest LoS, while higher co-morbid risk factors score led to shorter LoS. Sex and ethnicity were not associated with ICU LoS.
ConclusionsThe skew of the predicted LoS suggests that a mean LoS, as compared with median, might be better suited as a measure used to assess and plan ICU beds capacity. This is important for the ongoing second and any future waves of Covid-19 cases and potential pressure on the ICU resources. Also, changes in the ICU admission policy are likely to be confounded with improvements in clinical knowledge of Covid-19.
PERFIL DA PRODUÇÃO AGRÍCOLA TEMPORÁRIA NA REGIÃO DE SÃO CARLOS, SP: UM BALANÇO DOS ÚLTIMOS 12 ANOS
Authors: Lima Bruno Salata , Ferraz-Almeida Risely
Published: March 2021

A expansão da cana-de-açúcar está mudando o perfil da produção agrícola em algumas regiões do Brasil. Com a hipótese que o aumento da área de cana-de-açúcar tem uma relação inversa com a área agrícola do milho, mas com uma relação positiva com a produção de leguminosas no sistema de sucessão cana-de-açúcar/leguminosa. O objetivo deste estudo foi monitorar o perfil da produção agrícola das culturas temporárias na região de São Carlos, São Paulo, durante 2004 a 2015. Uma meta analise foi realizada com os dados do Censo agropecuário, disponibilizado pelo Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística. Monitorou o perfil da produção de cana-de-açúcar, amendoim, feijão, mandioca, milho, soja e tomate. Resultados mostraram que a cana-de-açúcar e o milho são as culturas temporárias com maiores expressividades na região. O aumento na área agrícola com cana-de-açúcar reduziu a área de produção de milho (-0,85), soja (-0,33), feijão (-0,74) e tomate (-0,58). A importante da produção da cana-de-açúcar no cenário brasileiro é evidente para a produção de açúcar e etanol. Existe uma relação inversa da área de cana-de-açúcar com as áreas com milho e soja que é controlada pelas condições do mercado. Em contrapartida, a sucessão usando o amendoim/cana-de-açúcar promoveu uma relação harmoniosa entre as culturas com o aumento da produção de amendoim e melhoria das condições do solo, além de ser uma alternativa economicamente viável na reforma do canavial. Possivelmente, a soja também pode ser inserida nesta perspectiva nos próximos anos devido as características similares (também leguminosa) e o aumento da demanda por soja no mercado nacional e internacional.