bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bigger Doesn’t Mean Bolder: Testing the Pace-of-Life Syndrome Hypothesis of Four Wild Rodent Species to Novelty and Predation Risk
Authors: Best Ian Nicholas , Shaner Pei-Jen Lee , Lo Hsuan-Yi , Pei Kurtis Jai-Chyi , Kuo Chi-Chien
Published: June 2020

Background: Rodents, a globally distributed and diverse taxonomic group, have been the subjects of countless studies emulating risky situations. In controlled laboratory experiments the majority of focus has been on captive-bred rodents, whereas far less attention has been paid to their wild counterparts. Understanding how wild species respond to novel situations with associated risk can provide valuable information toward the pace-of-life syndrome hypothesis; if their behaviors are associated with a fast-slow continuum of life history. Additionally, whether wild populations of rodents embody adaptive capacity and behavioral repertoires, illustrated by habituation and variation in behavioral traits, respectively. Results: In this comparative study, we examined multiple behavioral responses of three native rodent species Mus caroli, Apodemus agrarius, Rattus losea, and one invasive, Rattus exulans, exposed to an unfamiliar microenvironment and novel cue from an allopatric predator, the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis). All animals were captured and tested in a laboratory setting in Hualien County, Eastern Taiwan and subject to two consecutive nights of experimental trials. Behavioral responses to a novel situation during the first trial differed between species following the predictions of the pace-of-life syndrome; smaller species investing more time in non-defensive behaviors compared to the larger species. More specifically, the smaller species M. caroli and A. agrarius allocated more time to exploration and foraging, whereas the larger rat species R. exulans and R. losea spent more time motionless or concealing. During the second trial, leopard cat cues did not elicit antipredator behaviors, but rather, rodents were found to have opposing responses with increased non-defensive behaviors, specifically foraging efforts. Conclusions: Our results suggest that these four species do largely adhere to the pace-of-life syndrome with the two smaller mice species demonstrating increased boldness in a novel context compared to the larger rat species. Also, the wild populations of rodents in Eastern Taiwan may be naïve to leopard cats. Finally, the rodents in our study demonstrated habituation to the microenvironment, indicating they possess adaptive capacity.
Residential exposure to air pollution, access to neighborhood greenspace and their association with hair cortisol concentrations in the second and third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Verheyen Veerle Josefa , Remy Sylvie , Lambrechts Nathalie , Govarts Eva , Colles Ann , Poelmans Lien , Verachtert Els , Lefebvre Wouter , Monsieurs Pieter , Vanpoucke Charlotte , Nielsen Flemming , Eeden Lena Van den , Jacquemyn Yves , Schoeters Greet
Published: June 2020

Background: Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in studies worldwide, other studies have described beneficial effects of residential greenspace on pregnancy outcomes. The biological mechanisms that underlie these associations are incompletely understood. Recent studies have shown that a biological stress response, with release of cortisol, may underlie associations between air pollution and health effects. The available research on air pollution exposure in relation to biological stress during pregnancy is still scarce. Methods: We explored associations between residential exposure to air pollution, access to neighborhood greenspace and hair cortisol concentrations in a prospective pregnancy cohort study. We modelled participants’ residential air pollutant concentrations (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 μm, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), black carbon (BC)), assessed residential distance to a major road and access to a neighborhood greenspace. Hair cortisol concentrations, reflecting cortisol secretion over a period of 3 months prior to sampling, were determined at the end of the second (n = 133) and third pregnancy trimester (n = 81). Results: Three-month mean residential NO2 and BC concentrations were positively associated with third pregnancy trimester hair cortisol concentrations. The residential distance to a major road was negatively associated with second and third trimester hair cortisol concentrations. Access to a greenspace of 10 hectares or more within 800 meters travel distance significantly moderated the association between residential proximity to a major road and second trimester hair cortisol concentrations. At an average residential distance of 304 meters from a major road, mean second trimester HCC were estimated 22% lower for mothers with access to a neighborhood greenspace (3.71 (95% CI: 3.24, 4.24) pg/mg hair) compared to mothers without access (4.22 (95% CI: 3.26, 5.47) pg/mg hair). The moderation tended towards significance in the third trimester (p < 0.10). Conclusions: Increased residential exposure to air pollution and closer proximity to a major road are associated with an increased biological stress response in the second and third trimester of pregnancy, access to neighborhood greenspace may moderate the association. Trial registration: The IPANEMA study is registered under number NCT02592005 at clinicaltrials.gov.
Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Metastasis from Breast Cancer: A Preliminary Report on 4 Cases
Authors: Yu Jun-Hui , Feng Yu , Li Xin-Bao , Zhang Cheng-Yan , Shi Feng , An Song-Lin , Liu Gang , Zhang Yan-Bin , Zhang Kai , Ji Zhong-He , Li Bing , Yan Guo-Jun , Li Yan-Ping , Li Yan
Published: June 2020

Background: Breast cancer (BC) has been ranked as the first malignancy most common and the fifth in mortality rate among women in China. Peritoneal metastases from BC is a rare disease and no guideline or international consensus for it. Objective: To summarise our experiences in cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) to treat breast cancer peritoneal carcinomatosis (BC PC). Methods: 4 BC PC patients underwent CRS+HIPEC were enrolled in this study. The clinic-pathologic characteristics and overall survival (OS) were collected and analysed. Result: The average age at CRS+HIPEC was 59.8 years. The average time of CRS+HIPEC was 8.8 h. The median number of resected organ areas was 7. Overall survival from CRS+HIPEC were 31, 28, 16 and 52 months. There were no serious adverse events (SAEs) during the perioperative period. Conclusions: The 4 cases provided evidence that integrated therapy with CRS+HIPEC may be a promising strategy to improve the outcome for BC PC patients.
Qualitative Analysis and Dynamical Behavior of a Lassa Haemorrhagic Fever Model with Exposed Rodents and Saturated Incidence Rate
Authors: LOYINMI ADEDAPO CHRIS , AKINFE KINGSLEY TIMILEHIN , OJO ABISOYE ABIODUN
Published: June 2020

We have proposed an unprecedented deterministic model of Lassa Haemorrhagic fever (LHF) model with nonlinear force of LHF infection to capture the transmission dynamics and long term effects of the disease. The Qualitative analyses we have conveyed on this model using well established methods viz: Cauchy’s differential theorem, Birkhoff & Rota’s theorem verifies and reveals the well-posedness, and carrying capacity of the model respectively. We established that a LHF-free equilibrium termed the disease-free equilibrium (DFE) exists for this model and this equilibrium however from our stability analyses, tends to be stable when the basic reproduction number computed via next generation matrix method is less than unity (one); and unstable if otherwise. Furthermore, we have carried out a sensitivity analyses to check variation effects of the model parameters when increased or decreased using the normalized forward-sensitivity index; unraveling the most sensitive parameters which requires the attention of the healthcare workers as; the effective contact rates W, and the rodents’ recruitment rate e. After which numerical simulations of the model were carried out to verify our qualitative analyses (Stability and sensitivity analysis) and to study the dynamical behavior of the model; showing that the presence of saturation instantaneously causes the system to approach a DFE/LHF-Free equilibrium.From these qualitative analyses and numerical simulation results, we recommend early intervention and early treatment of Lassa haemorrhagic virus infection (LAHV) with Ribavirin on the infected, maximum hygiene practices and periodic evacuation of rodents in households in order to curb the recruitment of wild/rodents.
Mechanism and Effect of UCMSCS on Ovarian Structure and Function in Naturally Ageing C57 Mice
Authors: PAN Xing-hua , ZHANG Xue-juan , YAO Xiang , ZHU Xiang-qing , ZHAO Jing , HE Jie , CAI Xue-min , PANG Rong-qing , Ruan Guangping
Published: June 2020

Background: The ovary is the core reproductive organ of a woman and is of great significance for maintaining normal functioning of the reproductive system and the stability of the endocrine system. With an increase in age, the ovaries begin to age, and ovarian ageing will cause a decline in fertility. Methods: Ageing C57 mice were used to explore the mechanism by which mouse umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (mUCMSCs) promote the antioxidant repair of granulocytes (mGCs). The ovarian volume in C57 mice, which were routinely reared to 18 months, decreased, and the follicles at all levels disappeared. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0 statistical software. P <0.05 was considered to indicate a significant difference. Results: After mUCMSC transplantation, the mouse ovaries increased in size, follicles at various levels were seen in the cortex, and sinus follicle counts increased, indicating that mUCMSCs have a curative effect on ovarian ageing. Conclusions: mUCMSCs downregulated the expression of apoptosis-related genes (Bax, Caspase-3), upregulated the expression of SOD2 and the peroxidase gene PRDX IV, and reduced the granulocyte apoptosis rate and ROS level. Co-cultivation with mUCMSCs can increase antioxidative stress in mGCs and reduce mGC apoptosis.
Assessment of drivers of antimicrobial use and resistance in pig and poultry farming in the Msimbazi River Basin in Tanzania
Authors: Kimera Zuhura Idd , Frumence Gasto , Mboera Leonard E.G. , Rweyemamu Mark M , Mshana Stephen E. , Matee Mecky I.N.
Published: June 2020

Background Uncontrolled use of antimicrobials both in humans and animals coupled with environmental contamination by effluents, toxic chemicals, and heavy metals exacerbate the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance. This paper assessed the drivers of antimicrobial use and resistance in poultry and domestic pig farming and the environment in a densely populated area, with wide-ranging human activities in Tanzania. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted from June to September 2019 in the Msimbazi River basin in Eastern Tanzania, which covers an area of 271km2 and harbours a population of approximately 1.2 million. Questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions (FGDs) were used to collect information regarding demographic characteristics, knowledge, practices, attitudes, and perceptions of the drivers of antimicrobial use and resistance in animal farming and the environment. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square tests were used to analyse data from the survey and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The FGDs and interviews were transcribed, coded into categories, and analysed manually. Results We found a higher proportion of usage of veterinary antimicrobials for prophylactic purposes (87.6%), especially tetracycline and quinolones in poultry and pigs farming, than for therapeutic purposes (80.5%). The farming experience was significantly (p<0.05) related to the knowledge on the source of antimicrobial use, methods used in disease diagnosis, access to veterinary services, stocking of antimicrobial at home, and presence of agriculture activities that involve use of manure. Additionally, a significant relationship (p<0.05) existed between the level of education and the practicing group treatment, inadequate extension officers, and inadequate knowledge on infection prevention and control of animal diseases. Uncontrolled disposal of wastes from households, uncontrolled disposal of human and veterinary drugs, and weak implementation of the legal framework was identified as the major pollutants of the environment. Conclusion The high usage of veterinary antimicrobials and environmental contamination taking place in the Msimbazi Basin requires agent multisectoral interventions, including implementation of long-term sustainable training programs aiming at reducing farmers' reliance on antimicrobials, as well as a review of government strategies, policies, and regulations on AMU.
Machine learning algorithms to predict 30-day readmission in patients with stroke: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Yu-Ching , Chung Jo-Hsuan , Yeh Yu-Jo , Lin Hsiu-Fen , Lin Ching-Huang , Hsien Hong-Hsi , Hung Kuo-Wei , Yeh Shu-Chuan Jennifer , SHI HON-YI
Published: June 2020

Background

No studies have discussed machine learning algorithms to predict the risk of 30-day readmission in patients with stroke. The objective of the present study was to compare the accuracy of the artificial neural network (ANN), K nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), naive Bayes classifier (NBC), and Cox regression (COX) models and to explore the significant factors in predicting 30-day readmission after stroke.

Methods

This study prospectively compared the accuracy of the models using clinical data for 1,476 patients with stroke treated in six hospitals between March, 2014 and September, 2019. A training dataset (n=1,033) was used for model development, a testing dataset (n=443) was used for internal validation, and a validating dataset (n=167) was used for external validation. A global sensitivity analysis was performed to compare the significance of the selected input variables.

Results

Of all forecasting models, the ANN model had the highest accuracy in predicting 30-day readmission after stroke and had the highest overall performance indices. According to the ANN model, 30-day readmission was significantly associated with post-acute care (PAC) program, patient attributes, clinical attributes, and functional status scores before re-habilitation (all P <0.05). Additionally, PAC program was the most significant variable affecting 30-day readmission, followed by nasogastric tube insertion, and stroke type ( P <0.05).

Conclusions

Comparisons of the five forecasting models indicated that the ANN model had the highest accuracy in predicting 30-day readmission in stroke patients. Before stroke patients are discharged from hospitalization, they should be counseled regarding their potential for recovery and other possible outcomes. These important predictors can also be used to educate candidates for stroke patients who underwent PAC rehabilitation with respect to the course of recovery and health outcomes.
The comparison of Nice knots and traditional methods as an auxiliary reduction-fixation technique in pre-contoured locking plate fixation for comminuted Robinson type 2B clavicle fracture: a retrospective study
Authors: Hong Shengkun , Wang Wei , Guo Jinku , He Feixiong , Wang Cong
Published: June 2020

Background: Open reduction and pre-contoured locking plate fixation is a popular treatment option for displaced midshaft clavicle fracture. Lag screw and cerclage are two main intraoperative techniques to reduce and fix fragments. However, both lag screw and metallic cerclage have disadvantages. The doubled-suture Nice knot has been reported in many areas of orthopedic surgery for its effectiveness. This study aims to compare the outcomes of comminuted mid-shaft clavicle fractures reduced by Nice knots versus traditional techniques (lag screw or/and metallic cerclage) when bridged with pre-contoured locking plates.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 101 patients (65 females and 36 males) diagnosed with midshaft clavicle fractures with at least one wedge fragment reduced by either Nice knots or traditional methods and bridged with pre-contoured locking plates between December 2016 and April 2019. Operation time, functional outcomes, pain, patient satisfaction, fracture healing and complications were assessed at a follow-up of 12 to 40 months.Results: The mean age of all the patients was 50.8 years. There were 52 and 49 patients in Nice knot group and traditional group respectively, and no differences between two groups was found in general patient characteristics, fracture type, follow up and injury-to-surgery duration. The Nice knot group had significant less operation time (p < 0.01) than the traditional group (mean and standard deviation [SD], 78.6±19.0 compared with 94.4±29.9 minutes, respectively). For healing time, functional score, pain, satisfaction and complications, there was no significant differences between groups, despite the Nice knot group had slightly better results.Conclusions: Both Nice knots and traditional methods treated for comminuted Robinson type 2B clavicle fractures were effective and safe. And the Nice knots seemed to be superior with significant less operation time.
Epidemiological approximation of the enteric manifestation and possible fecal-oral transmission in COVID-19: A preliminary systematic review
Authors: Pamplona Javier , Solano Rubén , Soler Cristina , Sàbat Miriam
Published: June 2020

Objectives: to conduct a systematic review to describe the epidemiological scientific evidence on gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS), enteric involvement and fecal excretion of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA and to discuss the possible fecal-oral transmission pathway of COVID-19.Methods: We have reviewed GIS, enteric involvement, and fecal test results of SARS CoV-2 from case reports and retrospective observational studies related to the digestive system published about the outbreak.Results: The prevalence of GIS in patients infected with SARS CoV-2 ranges from 1.7% (1/56)-100% (10/10), GIS included diarrhea 1/99(1%)-8/10(80%), nausea/vomiting 1/28(3.6%)-5/10 (50%), abdominal pain 2/103(1.9%)-1/3(33.3%). A total of 3% of infected patients may experience GIS in the absence of respiratory symptoms. A pooled analysis of the results showed 16.1% GIS, 8.3% diarrhea and 12% nausea-vomiting. A higher percentage of diarrhea in patients with severe disease (5.8%) than in non-severe disease (3.5%), and a more severe course in patients with GIS (22.97%) than in those without GIS (8.12%) was found. Histological studies demonstrated the presence of ACE2 receptors and the nucleocapsid of the virus in gastrointestinal. The RNA of the virus has been detected in 27-53% of patients with COVID-19 in whom respiratory and stool samples have been analyzed, and it may persist in stool for up to an average of 11.2 days after negativization of the respiratory samples.Conclusions: GIS are common in SARS CoV-2 infection at the time of patient admission, sometimes represent the only clinical manifestation. Infection of the GI tract is possible due to the presence of ACE2 receptors, and there may be viral replication with fecal elimination.
COVID-19 Scientific Facts Vs. Conspiracy Theories: 0 – 1: Science Fails to Convince Even Highly Educated Individuals
Authors: Constantinou Marios , Kagialis Anthony , Karekla Maria
Published: June 2020

Science may be failing to convince a significant number of people about COVID-19 scientific facts and needed public health measures. Individual and social factors are behind believing conspiracy theories. Adults (N = 1001) were asked to rate their beliefs in various conspiracy theories circulating in social media, rate their psychological distress relating to COVID-19, rate their trust in science to solve COVID-19 problems, and rate their willingness to adhere to measures regarding social distancing and quarantine. The findings showed conspiracy theories are widely believed even among highly educated individuals. Stronger conspiracy theory beliefs predicted science mistrust and unwillingness to adhere to public health measures. Psychological distress increased conspiracy beliefs. Recommendations, stemming from the findings, for reducing such beliefs and better serve public health are discussed.
Yerdeğiştirme Tabanlı Deprem Erken Uyarı Sistemleri
Authors: ŞENTÜRK Murat Doruk , AKTUĞ Bahadır
Published: June 2020

Yerdeğiştirme tabanlı deprem gözlemleri giderek yaygınlaşmakta ve buna bağlı olarak kullanım alanları genişlemektedir. Deprem başladıktan kısa süre içerisinde meydana gelen depremin nihai büyüklüğünün belirlenmesi, hem Deprem Erken Uyarı Sistemleri (DEU) hem de depremden bittikten sonraki dönemde kayıpların kestirilmesi ve yardım faaliyetlerinin koordinasyonu için büyük önem taşımaktadır. 1999 Chi-Chi (Mw7.6), 1999 Hector Mine (Mw7.1) ve 2003 Tokachi-Oki (Mw8.3) gibi büyük depremler için yapılan testlerde kuvvetli yer hareketi ölçerlerden elde edilen yerdeğiştirmeye dayalı kestirimlerin daha duyarlı olmakla birlikte özellikle büyük depremleri olması gerekenden daha küçük olarak kestirdiği gözlenmektedir (Brown vd. 2011; Crowell vd. 2013). Büyük depremler sırasında kaynağa yakın hızölçerlerin satüre olması, kaynağa uzak olmaları durumunda ise erken uyarı için yeterli zaman kalmaması nedeniyle hızölçerlerin erken uyarı amaçlı kullanımında sorunlar bulunmaktadır. Jeodezik ölçüler ve ivme kayıtlarının birlikte kullanımı ile elde edilen sismojeodezik dalga formları ise satürasyon sorunu içermemeleri nedeniyle kaynağa çok yakın mesafeden veri sağlamakta, GNSS alıcılarının inersiyal olmayan bir sistemde ölçüm yapmaları sayesinde doğrudan kalıcı yerdeğiştirmeler ve buna bağlı deprem büyüklüğü hesaplanabilmesine olanak sağlamaktadırlar. Günümüzde A.B.D. ve Japonya gibi depreme maruz kalan gelişmiş ülkelerde sismojeodezik verilere dayalı erken uyarı sistemleri kurulmuş ve yaygınlaşmaya başlamıştır. Bu çalışmada, ülkemizde yakın dönemde meydana gelen bazı büyük depremler için sadece GNSS dalgaformlarına dayalı olarak deprem büyüklükleri hesaplanmıştır. Gökova, Gökçeada ve Van depremlerinin GNSS yerdeğiştirme dalga formları ile tekrar hesaplanması soncunda sırası ile 6.6, 6.9, 7.2 Mw olan deprem büyüklüğü 6.54, 7.21 ve 7.22 Mw olarak hesaplanmıştır. Bu sonuçlar, özellikle büyük depremler için GNSS dalgaformlarına dayalı olarak hesap edilen deprem büyüklüklerinin yüksek duyarlık sağladığını ve deprem erken uyarı amaçlı kullanımındaki potansiyelini göstermektedir.
Leadership Style and Performance of Employees
Authors: Agarwal Sugandha
Published: June 2020

Leadership is an important aspect as it usually enables the employees of the organizations to work efficiently and effectively. The current study assesses the relationship between leadership style(s) and the performance of employees working in the banking sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This quantitative study is conducted with a sample of 200 employees from 5 different banking institutions of the UAE using simple random sampling techniques. SPSS version 21 was used to analyze the data. The results highlighted that democratic and transformational leadership have a significant positive relationship with the performance of employees with a p-value of 0.00, P<0.05. The Cronbach’s alpha was measured between the ranges of 0.7 to 0.8 which is an acceptable range. It is proven that democratic leadership and transformational leadership styles are significant for the banking sector which helps to achieve its goals and enhance the performance of employees.
E-commerce Platform Performance, Digital Marketing and Supply Chain Capabilities
Authors: Agus Anna Amalyah , Yudoko Gatot , Mulyono Nur Budi , Imaniya Taliya
Published: June 2020

By using Indonesian case studies, this research plan to fill the research gap in the theories of transaction cost economics, multi-attribute utility theory, agency theory and information-processing theory, through variable based modeling. For business and industry stakeholder point of view, this research is expected to be useful for Indonesian e-commerce platform ecosystem stakeholders especially regulators, to give insights towards dynamics within e-commerce platform ecosystem. This paper originality lies on proposing e-commerce conceptual model by using multidisciplinary approach through combining four main constructs, which consists of relative e-commerce platform performance, digital promotion capability, customer experience review rating and supply chain capabilities. The model also accommodates seasonal pricing and logistic outsourcing as intervening variables to examine model sensitivity. With sample size of 1288 people who have purchased items in at least two e-commerce platform, collected data is processed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) method by LISREL software.
Mazaraat Cheese Consumer Purchasing Decision
Authors: Lestari Indah Ria , Sumarwan Ujang
Published: June 2020

This study aims to identify the characteristics of Mazaraat consumers, analyze the influence of customer perceived value (CPV), brand awareness, consumer knowledge, and marketing mix on Mazaraat cheese consumer purchasing decisions, and develop appropriate managerial implications to improve Mazaraat consumer purchasing decisions. The study used 158 local Mazaraat consumers as respondents surveyed using a questionnaire and the data obtained were processed using SEM-PLS. The results showed that customer perceived value, brand awareness, and product variables had a positive and significant influence on purchasing decisions. Meanwhile, the variables of consumer knowledge, promotion, price, and location did not have a significant influence on purchasing decisions. Overall, the product has the most significant direct and indirect influences on purchasing decisions for Mazaraat cheese. The companies should pay attention to the marketing mix variables and other connecting variables to improve the purchasing decisions of Mazaraat cheese.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Thionucleosides
Authors: P. O’Donovan Fiona , O’Leary Eileen M. , O’Sullivan Timothy P.
Published: June 2020

The search for novel nucleosides has been a major research focus in medicinal
chemistry for several decades, particularly given their proven track record in the treatment
of viral infections and cancer. As bioisosteres of natural nucleosides, thionucleosides are
especially attractive targets as they often display improved biological activity. Furthermore,
the replacement of oxygen with sulfur may sometimes be accompanied by interesting
changes in pharmacological effect. This update covers recent advances in the preparation of
novel thionucleosides, grouped by synthetic strategy. The biological properties of the target
thionucleosides are also summarised, in addition to any reported structure activity relationships.
DFT Study of the Mechanisms of Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Reductive Coupling Reactions
Authors: Wang Yuling , Ren Qinghua
Published: June 2020

The mechanism studies of transition-metal-catalyzed reductive coupling reactions
investigated using Density Functional Theory calculations in the recent ten years have been
reviewed. This review introduces the computational mechanism studies of Ni-, Pd-, Cu- and
some other metals (Rh, Ti and Zr)-catalyzed reductive coupling reactions and presents the
methodology used in these computational mechanism studies. The mechanisms of the transition-
metal-catalyzed reductive coupling reactions normally include three main steps: oxidative
addition; transmetalation; and reductive elimination or four main steps: the first oxidative
addition; reduction; the second oxidative addition; and reductive elimination. The ratelimiting
step is most likely the final reductive elimination step in the whole mechanism.
Currently, the B3LYP method used in DFT calculations is the most popular choice in the structural geometry
optimizations and the M06 method is often used to carry out single-point calculations to refine the energy values.
We hope that this review will stimulate more and more experimental and computational combinations and the
computational chemistry will significantly contribute to the development of future organic synthesis reactions.
A Machine Learning-based Self-risk Assessment Technique for Cervical Cancer
Authors: Ramzan Zeeshan , Hassan Muhammad Awais , Asif H. M. Shahzad , Farooq Amjad
Published: June 2020

Background:

Cervical cancer is a highly significant cause of mortality in developing
countries, and it is one of the most prominent forms of cancer worldwide. Machine learning
techniques have been proven more accurate for the identification of cervical cancer as compared to
the manual screening methods like Pap smear and Liquid Cytology Based (LCB) tests.

Objective:

Primarily, these machine-learning techniques use the images of the cervix for cervical
cancer risk analysis; in this article, demographic data and medical records of patients are used to
identify major causes of cervical cancer. Furthermore, normal classification methods are used as a
usual way of classification when the dataset is balanced as this dataset has abundant examples of
negative cases as compared to positive cases On the other hand, traditional binary class classifiers
are not sufficient to classify the examples of cervical cancer correctly.

Methods:

We identified the major causes of cervical cancer by employing multiple machine learning
feature selection algorithms. After this selection, we trained different machine learning methods
including Decision Trees (DTs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs) and Ensemble Learners using all
features as well as these important features.

Results and Conclusion:

AdaBoost is able to classify instances into healthy and unhealthy classes of
this unbalanced dataset with 96% accuracy. Based on this model and significant causes of cervical
cancer, we aimed to develop a technique for self-risk assessment of cervical cancer, which women
can use to know their chances of being infected from cervical cancer after answering some questions
about their demographics and medical history.
Loading of Propranolol Hydrochloride on MCF and Sustained Release
Authors: Li Xiao-Dong , Zhai Qing-Zhou
Published: June 2020

Aims:

Adsorption conditions of propranolol hydrochloride onto MCF are optimized. Properties
of this adsorption system are studied. The sustained release properties of propranolol hydrochloride
in the loading system are also researched.

Background:

In today's society, demand for drugs is getting higher and higher. With the development
of nanotechnology, it is easier to immobilize drugs on nanomaterials, which can easily transport drugs
in the human body. It can control drug release, reduce side effects, improve drug efficacy, and develop
drug orientation.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to load propranolol hydrochloride, a drug for the treatment
of heart disease and hypertension on the MCF nano-mesoporous material to prepare a sustainedrelease
preparation and investigate the release law of propranolol hydrochloride in simulated human
body fluid.

Methods:

Nanometer mesoporous MCF (mesocellular foams) silica material was prepared in acidic
medium using triblock copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(propyl glycol)-block-poly(ethylene
glycol) as template and tetraethoxysilane as silica source. Propranolol hydrochloride drug was incorporated
into the MCF mesoporous material by the impregnation method to prepare MCF-propranol
hydrochloride host-guest composite material. The loading amount of drug was calculated by spectrophotometry
and difference subtraction method.

Results:

The loading amount of drug calculated by spectrophotometry and difference subtraction
method was 385.5 mg·g-1 (propranolol hydrochloride/MCF). The adsorption process of propranolol
hydrochloride in MCF belongs to the quasi-second-order kinetic process. Adsorption process ΔH0 =
-19.11 kJ·mol-1, is an exothermic process, ΔG0 < 0, the adsorption process is a spontaneous process.
The effective release time of drug lasted up to 32 h and the maximum cumulative released amount was
99.4 % through the experiment of drug sustained release in the simulated body fluid. In the simulated
gastric juice, the release time of drug reached 6 h, and the maximum cumulative released amount was
56.6 %. When drug release time arrived at 10 h in the simulated intestinal fluid, the maximum cumulative
released amount was 71.3 %.

Conclusions:

The influence of the release rate of propranolol hydrochloride molecules from MCF
mesopores was demonstrated, since it results in a very slow drug delivery from the nanocomposite
system. Thus, it is concluded that the prepared MCF is an efficient drug sustained-released carrier.
Public Relations Strategy in the Socialization of Five-Day School Policy as Reconstruction of Indonesia Younger Generation
Authors: Wahid Umaimah , Pramono Sidik
Published: June 2020

This report aimed to report how the Education and Culture Ministry responded to the mass media spotlight and public criticism related to full-day school education. The case study method with in-depth interviews and observations were used to collect the data. The study result explained the Education and Culture Ministry carried out public relations strategies such as publications, events, news, and negotiations to socialize full-day school policy and involved non-governmental organizations and community leaders to maximize the results. This program is still a debate in the community but is continuing as an effort to build the character of Indonesia's young generation.Keywords: Strategy public relations, the ministry of education and culture, Five-day school, Young generation-Indonesia.
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2020. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open-access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v5iSI1.2290
Studies on Standing Crop Biomass and Primary Productivity of Horse Gram in Jharkhand
Authors: Budiman PRAMOD KUMAR , PRASAD RAGHUNATH , SINHA R RK , KUMAR SANJEEV , SINGH ANIL KUMAR
Published: June 2020

The standing crop biomass in different plant compartments was found to be variable with the age of the crop. The total plant biomass of ageing plant indicated a sigmoidal curve in three varieties of Birsa Kulthi–1, Birsa Kulthi–2 and Birsa Kulthi–3. The total plant biomass was recorded to be 115.53 g/m2 (Birsa Kulthi–1), 92.85 g/m2 (Birsa Kulthi–2) and 72.42 g/m2 (Birsa Kulthi–3) at final harvest i.e. 105 days. Contribution of stem and leaves to the total plant biomass has increased between 15 and 90 days. Infl./pod biomass per cent as found to be increasing throughout. Standing dead biomass was maximum 9.40 per cent (Birsa Kulthi–1), 8.97 per cent (Birsa Kulthi–2) and 6.53 per cent (Birsa Kulthi–3) at final harvest i.e. 105 days. Peak values for current increments in biomass were observed at 90 days in Birsa Kulthi–1 and 105 days in Birsa Kulthi–2 and Birsa Kulthi–3. The peak values for net primary productivity were found to be highest at 90 days for Birsa Kulthi–1 and 105 days harvest for Birsa Kulthi–2 and Birsa Kulthi–3.
Evaluation of Soil Test Methods for Available Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium in Direct-Seeded Rice–Wheat Cropping Sequence
Authors: SINGH VIJAY KANT , GAUTAM POONAM , SINGH KHARAG , SEN SUMAN , KUMAR VINEET , MEENA SHIV SINGH , SINGH D. N.
Published: June 2020

A study was carried out in an attempt to obtain simple and efficient soil test method(s) for determination of available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in Mollisols. Soil samples were collected before sowing of direct-seeded rice (DSR) and wheat in sequence to evaluate the soil test methods for available N, P and K. Methods used were wet-oxidation for organic carbon (OC); alkaline KMnO4 for available N; Olsen’s-P, AB-DTPA and Mehlich-I for available P; and NH4OAc-K, AB-DTPA and Mehlich-I for available K. Suitability of these methods for given soil nutrients was evaluated by comparing the R2 values (coefficient of determination) obtained from regression analysis. Results showed that the R2 values of obtained equations by using different combinations of soil test methods for the determination of available N, P and K in soil were highly significant in both the crops. Highest R2 value for DSR (0.442**) and wheat (0.898**) were observed with the combination of OC, Olsen’s-P, ABDTPA-K, and OC, Olsen’s-P, Mehlich-K, respectively. It showed that these combinations are more promising and superior over other methods.
FLD for Popularization of Toria in Longleng District of Nagaland Impact Assessment on Frontline Demonstration for Popularization of Toria in Longleng District of Nagaland
Authors: KUMAR MANOJ , MEENA K L , RAJKHOWA D J
Published: June 2020

The present study was carried out in four different villages under Longleng district of Nagaland, India. KVK, Longleng conducted a frontline demonstration of HYV of toria (TS 36). A total of 32 nos. of FLDs were evaluated to find out the yield gaps between HYV toria variety TS 36 and variety grown by farmers. Yield data of both demonstration and farmers practice were recorded and their yield gap, technology gap, extension gap and technology index were analyzed. Results revealed that the Toria yield (Cv. TS 36) was recorded 40.6 to 40.7 per cent higher over farmer’s variety. On an average, technology gap was recorded 4.10 q/ha, while the average extension gap was recorded 2.40 q/ha. Average technology index was recorded 34.10 percent. Average net return was found Rs.15375.50/ha and Rs.8637.50/ha with demonstration and farmers practice respectively. Higher benefit-cost ratio, production efficiency and economic efficiency were recorded in the demonstration plot than the farmer's practice.
Virtual Reality Meditation Among Youth Experiencing Homelessness: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Feasibility
Authors: Chavez Laura Johnson , Kelleher Kelly , Slesnick Natasha , Holowacz Eugene , Luthy Ellison , Moore Laura , Ford Jodi
Published: June 2020

Background

Homelessness among youth is devastating, with high rates of substance use disorders and mental health comorbidity. Mindfulness-based interventions that include meditation and mindfulness skills training reduce stress and symptoms of anxiety or depression. However, engaging high-risk youth in interventions is challenging. Virtual reality is a more flexible platform for delivering meditation and may be appealing to youth.

Objective

The study objectives were to evaluate the feasibility of delivering virtual reality meditation and of collecting outcome measures, including anxiety and physiologic stress.

Methods

A sample of 30 youth experiencing homelessness was enrolled in the study. Youth were randomized to receive 10 minutes of one of three interventions: (1) virtual reality meditation, (2) audio meditation (through a web-based platform), or (3) virtual reality imagery of historical pictures and text. Subjects who consented to the study attended two research visits. The first visit collected survey measures of demographics, mental health, and substance use, and oriented subjects to the intervention platforms. The second visit (1-3 days later) delivered the intervention and collected pre and post outcome measures of anxiety and physiologic stress (salivary cortisol). Changes in anxiety and cortisol at the second visit were compared across groups using a linear regression model in which the primary analysis compared virtual reality meditation to audio meditation and secondary analyses compared virtual reality meditation to virtual reality imagery.

Results

Anxiety scores decreased in all groups, with a larger reduction among the virtual reality meditation group (difference=10.8) compared to the web-based meditation or virtual reality images groups (difference=5.8 and 5.0, respectively). After controlling for baseline values, there were no significant group differences in changes in anxiety scores or cortisol levels. In comparing virtual reality meditation and audio meditation, the effect size for anxiety was moderate (Cohen d=0.58) while the effect size for cortisol was small (Cohen d=0.08).

Conclusions

Preliminary results suggest that virtual reality meditation has a moderate benefit for anxiety but not physiologic stress. Future research is needed to confirm these results in a larger sample and to investigate whether the effects are sustained or increase with repeated use of virtual reality mediation. Virtual reality meditation appears feasible to deliver among homeless youth and merits further study.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04004520; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04004520
A Digital Smoking Cessation Program for Heavy Drinkers: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kahler Christopher W , Cohn Amy M , Costantino Catherine , Toll Benjamin A , Spillane Nichea S , Graham Amanda L
Published: June 2020

Background

Heavy drinking (HD) is far more common among smokers compared with nonsmokers and interferes with successful smoking cessation. Alcohol-focused smoking cessation interventions delivered by counselors have shown promise, but digital versions of these interventions—which could have far greater population reach—have not yet been tested.

Objective

This pilot randomized controlled trial aimed to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and effect sizes of an automated digital smoking cessation program that specifically addresses HD using an interactive web-based intervention with an optional text messaging component.

Methods

Participants (83/119, 69.7% female; 98/119, 82.4% white; mean age 38.0 years) were daily smokers recruited on the web from a free automated digital smoking cessation program (BecomeAnEX.org, EX) who met the criteria for HD: women drinking 8+ drinks/week or 4+ drinks on any day and men drinking 15+ drinks/week or 5+ drinks on any day. Participants were randomized to receive EX with standard content (EX-S) or an EX with additional content specific to HD (EX-HD). Outcomes were assessed by web-based surveys at 1 and 6 months.

Results

Participants reported high satisfaction with the website and the optional text messaging component. Total engagement with both EX-S and EX-HD was modest, with participants visiting the website a median of 2 times, and 52.9% of the participants enrolled to receive text messages. Participants in both the conditions showed substantial, significant reductions in drinking across 6 months of follow-up, with no condition effects observed. Although smoking outcomes tended to favor EX-HD, the condition effects were small and nonsignificant. A significantly smaller proportion of participants in EX-HD reported having a lapse back to smoking when drinking alcohol (7/58, 16%) compared with those in EX-S (18/61, 41%; χ21=6.2; P=.01).

Conclusions

This is the first trial to examine a digital smoking cessation program tailored to HD smokers. The results provide some initial evidence that delivering such a program is feasible and may reduce the risk of alcohol-involved smoking lapses. However, increasing engagement in this and other web-based interventions is a crucial challenge to address in future work.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03068611; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03068611
Institution-Specific Machine Learning Models for Prehospital Assessment to Predict Hospital Admission: Prediction Model Development Study (Preprint)
Authors: Shirakawa Toru , Sonoo Tomohiro , Ogura Kentaro , Fujimori Ryo , Hara Konan , Goto Tadahiro , Hashimoto Hideki , Takahashi Yuji , Naraba Hiromu , Nakamura Kensuke
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Although multiple prediction models have been developed to predict hospital admission to emergency departments (EDs) to address overcrowding and patient safety, only a few studies have examined prediction models for prehospital use. Development of institution-specific prediction models is feasible in this age of data science, provided that predictor-related information is readily collectable.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to develop a hospital admission prediction model based on patient information that is commonly available during ambulance transport before hospitalization.

METHODS

Patients transported by ambulance to our ED from April 2018 through March 2019 were enrolled. Candidate predictors were age, sex, chief complaint, vital signs, and patient medical history, all of which were recorded by emergency medical teams during ambulance transport. Patients were divided into two cohorts for derivation (3601/5145, 70.0%) and validation (1544/5145, 30.0%). For statistical models, logistic regression, logistic lasso, random forest, and gradient boosting machine were used. Prediction models were developed in the derivation cohort. Model performance was assessed by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and association measures in the validation cohort.

RESULTS

Of 5145 patients transported by ambulance, including deaths in the ED and hospital transfers, 2699 (52.5%) required hospital admission. Prediction performance was higher with the addition of predictive factors, attaining the best performance with an AUROC of 0.818 (95% CI 0.792-0.839) with a machine learning model and predictive factors of age, sex, chief complaint, and vital signs. Sensitivity and specificity of this model were 0.744 (95% CI 0.716-0.773) and 0.745 (95% CI 0.709-0.776), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients transferred to EDs, we developed a well-performing hospital admission prediction model based on routinely collected prehospital information including chief complaints.
Usage patterns of telepsychology and face-to-face psychotherapy: Patients’ Profiles and Perceptions (Preprint)
Authors: Sora Beatriz , Nieto Ruben , Montesano del Campo Adrian , Armayones Manuel
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Currently, most people who might need mental health care services do not receive them due to a number of reasons. Many of these reasons can be overcome by ICT, which facilitates access to specialized interventions. In fact, telepsychology is currently offered as an active service in many psychotherapy centers. However, its usage, how it is perceived, and who uses it are still largely unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was (1) to determine if any pattern exists in the usage of telepsychology and face-to-face psychology, (2) to clarify people’s perception of telepsychology in terms of the advantages, barriers and efficacy of online psychotherapy, and (3) to examine usage patterns in terms of individual characteristics and identify patients’ profiles.

METHODS

An online survey was conducted on a convenience sample of 514 subjects. Cluster analysis, Anovas and discriminant analysis were performed to test our research objectives.

RESULTS

Three usage patterns were found: (1) face-to-face psychotherapy (57%; n=292); (2) non-therapy (36.8%; n=189); and (3) combined face-to-face psychotherapy and telepsychology (6.4%; n=33). In addition, the perception of telepsychology varied among usage patterns, but a common perception emerged about the main telepsychology advantages, barriers and efficacy. Finally, the results showed that personal characteristics differentiated people in each of these patterns. Sociodemographic variables were critical in determining whether people attended face-to-face psychotherapy or not; whereas ICT competences and eHealth experience were critical in determining whether people attended telepsychology or not.

CONCLUSIONS

There are naturally occurring psychotherapy usage patterns that vary according to the form of delivery. Furthermore, these usage patterns showed a common perception of telepsychology, but patients’ profiles differed in line with usage patterns. These patterns provide insight into opportunities for face-to-face and online patient engagement strategies.