bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties of non-relativistic string theory
Authors: Bergshoeff Eric , Lahnsteiner Johannes , Romano Lucia , Simsek Ceyda
Published: August 2021

We show how Newton-Cartan geometry can be generalized to String Newton-Cartan geometry which is the geometry underlying non-relativistic string theory. Several salient properties of non-relativistic string theory in this geometric background are presented and a discussion of possible research for the future is outlined.
Adaptación, osadía e innovación, coordenadas del ecosistema educativo en la pandemia
Authors: López Aguirre José Luis
Published: August 2021

El presente cuarto número de nuestra Revista Panamericana de Comunicación sirva para conmemorar, en su acepción de homenaje más que de celebración, a los docentes y estudiantes que continúan enfrentando con resiliencia y creatividad los retos y exigencias que plantea la pandemia por la COVID-19. Asimismo, dedicamos este monográfico a los colegas que han partido, pero que sus enseñanzas perduran. En este desafiante e incierto escenario que ha caracterizado el comienzo del segundo decenio del siglo XXI, el sector educativo ha tenido que reinventarse, como gratamente lo evidencian los diecisiete artículos provenientes de quince universidades hispanoamericanas que conforman la edición titulada Buenas prácticas docentes y de investigación en las carreras de Comunicación durante el confinamiento sanitario.
Working Time Management as a Way to Increase Labor Productivity
Authors: Emel'yanovich Anzhelika , Koval Sergey , Galimova Anna
Published: August 2021

The study is devoted to the study of the rational use of working time in the context of the implementation of the main functions of management: planning, organization, motivation, control, coordination. The goal is a methodology for assessing the optimal use of the organization's working time based on the criteria for analyzing the effectiveness of the implementation of the main functions of management. Research methods: semantic analysis of the conceptual apparatus, methods of mathematical modeling to describe various factors that characterize the main functions of management in the context of working time management. Experimental methods: the method of expert assessments, questionnaires, photography of the working day. Domestic and foreign approaches to the concept of working time management are considered, the author's approach is given. Based on the process-functional approach, a methodology and algorithm for assessing the effectiveness of the working time management process. This model has been tested on the example of a self-regulatory organization operating in construction. A task was set, which was implemented within the framework of the project to optimize the use of working time of employees of the inspection and control department. Were analyzed the regulations of various levels of decision-making governing the work of employees. A questionnaire survey of opportunities and middle managers was instructed to form a number of criteria necessary for the application of the developed methodology. The results of the study allowed us to conclude about the average efficiency of the working time management process. Based on the results of the implementation of the recommendations, in particular, the application of lean manufacturing methods and the adjustment of local regulatory documents, it was possible to increase the effectiveness of managing the working time of the organization's employees.
Vectors of socio-economic development of the region in the context of digital transformation
Authors: Novikova Zhanna , Stenyashina Nadezhda , Nazmutdinova Albina
Published: August 2021

The article reviews the socio-economic state of the Republic of Tatarstan during digital economy development, namely public services, infrastructure, living conditions, urban environment, business, digital government, medicine, education, research competencies, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, etc. The authors focused on the positive trends, problems, and improvement measures. They proposed to set up a Digital Transformation Center that would launch new digital platforms for residents in order to make their life easier. The sustainable growth of the regional economy cannot happen without the state support of new enterprises, startups, customized production market, exchange of knowledge, new jobs in high-tech industries, digital teaching methods, etc. Big data, end-to-end information technologies, neural networks, robotics, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, 3D modeling, virtual reality, and cloud computing can facilitate the innovative economic growth in the region.
REPRESENTAÇÕES E RESOLUÇÃO DE SISTEMAS LINEARES 2 x 2 COM INSTRUMENTOS MANUAIS E COM O SOFTWARE GEOGEBRA
Authors: Pereira Kézia Cristiane de Mendonça , Barbosa Miquéias Rodrigues , Lourenço Emanuel Gomes , Braz Ricardo Antônio Faustino da Silva
Published: August 2021

O presente artigo discorre sobre o desenvolvimento de uma aula inédita ocorrida em uma turma da segunda série do Ensino Médio de uma escola da rede estadual de ensino do Rio Grande do Norte. A aula abordou o conteúdo de resolução de sistemas lineares do tipo 2 x 2 e objetivou, fundamentada na Teoria dos Registros de Representações Semióticas de Raymond Duval, proporcionar aos estudantes o conhecimento da representação geométrica das equações lineares com duas incógnitas e a determinação da solução de um sistema 2 x 2, sem a necessidade da realização dos tradicionais cálculos algébricos. Além disso, durante a realização da aula, utilizou-se o aplicativo GeoGebra para smartfones para dar suporte aos estudantes na correção das atividades desenvolvidas. Como resultados, observou-se que, a realização da aula proporcionou aos estudantes envolvidos a oportunidade de conhecer e utilizar outros registros para representar e resolver sistemas lineares 2 x 2.
A doença como metáfora racial: a pandemia de coronavírus à luz da Teoria Racial Crítica
Authors: Almeida Philippe Oliveira de
Published: August 2021

Nosso paper irá se debruçar sobre um problema específico: a maneira como, no imaginário jurídico e político de nossa civilização, grupos raciais subalternizados (negros, indígenas, asiáticos etc.) são associados a determinadas doenças. O rabalho se desenvolverá em três etapas: em um primeiro momento, discutiremos, de forma ampla, as reverberações do racismo estrutural sobre a pandemia de COVID-19; em seguida, faremos uma breve apresentação da Teoria Racial Crítica (exercício que se revela necessário, considerando que se trata de uma corrente jusfilosófica ainda pouco debatida, no Brasil); por fim, recorreremos à CRT para refletir sobre como, em um imaginário social racista, populações não-brancas tendem a ser representadas como vetores de doenças. Considerando as tentativas, de governos como o britânico, o estadunidense e o brasileiro, de imputar à China a difusão do COVID-19, recorreremos à Teoria Racial Crítica Asiática – AsianCrit –, uma das inúmeras vertentes da CRT, como ponto de partida para debater a racialização da doença.
Tamanho e qualidade: ferramentas para a melhor utilização das fotografias em diferentes finalidades
Authors: Silva Guilherme Antonio Noma da , Cardia Neto Rubens , Hoffmann Maria Luisa
Published: August 2021

O presente artigo aborda os formatos de arquivos mais utilizados atualmente na fotografia e suas finalidades, levando em consideração suas resoluções e tamanhos. Para tanto, realizam-se testes com imagens para a comparação e entendimento do processo de compressão. Apresenta-se, também, o cálculo que deve ser realizado para a conversão de píxeis para centímetros, para determinar o tamanho real para reprodução impressa. O objetivo do trabalho é compreender as variações e alternâncias entre tamanho de arquivo, redimensionamento de imagem, seja para o armazenamento ou para a impressão, baseado na utilização do software Adobe Photoshop. Ademais, pretende-se entender como o programa de edição executa as alternâncias de tamanho da imagem, bem como aprofundar conhecimentos sobre o tratamento do arquivo gerado pela câmera.
Türkiye’de Kadın Suçluluğunun Feminist Sosyal Hizmet Bağlamında İncelenmesi
Authors: Eskiçorapçı Evrim
Published: August 2021

Kadınlar arasında suç işleme davranışı, erkeklere oranla daha düşük seviyede görülmektedir. Bu durum dünyada ve ülkemizdeki kadın suçluluğunun durumu açısından da geçerlidir. Ancak son yıllardaki istatistiksel verilere göre kadın suçluluğundaki artış oranının erkek suçluğundaki artış oranından fazla olduğu belirlenmiştir. Bu makalede, bu artışın nedeni toplumsal etkenlerle birlikte ele alınarak, toplumsal cinsiyet rollerinin kadın suçluluğuna nasıl yön verdiği ve suç işlemiş kadınlara yönelik feminist sosyal hizmet uygulamaları incelenecektir. Çalışmanın amacının daha iyi anlaşılması için suç, toplumsal cinsiyet, kadın suçluluğu, sosyal hizmet ve feminist kuram gibi konular açıklanarak feminist sosyal hizmet müdahaleleri incelenmiştir. Çalışmada toplumsal cinsiyetin başlıca rollerinden olan kadınlık ve erkeklik ekseninde suç kavramına bakılarak, kadın suçluluğu olgusunun çeşitli yönleriyle ele alınması gerektiği ortaya çıkmıştır. Ayrıca bu çalışmada, Türkiye’deki kadın suçluluğunun genel görünümüne değinilerek kadınların işlediği suç türlerine ve işleme şekillerine göre bazı ortak özellikleri olduğu görülmüştür. Çalışmanın nihai hedeflerinden olan feminist sosyal hizmet bakış açısıyla kadın suçluluğunun önlenmesi ve çeşitli dinamiklerle kadınların güçlendirilmesinin, feminist sosyal hizmet uygulamalarının kapsamlı ve etkin hale getirilmesiyle mümkün olacağı düşünülmektedir.
Pathogenic Mechanisms of Trimethylamine N-Oxide-induced Atherosclerosis and Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zheng Youjing , He Jia-Qiang
Published: August 2021

:

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a gut microbiota metabolite derived from trimethylamine-
containing nutrient precursors such as choline, L-carnitine, and betaine, which are rich in
many vegetables, fruits, nuts, dairy products, and meats. An increasing number of clinical studies
have demonstrated a strong relationship between elevated plasma TMAO levels and adverse cardiovascular
events. It is commonly agreed that TMAO acts as an independent risk factor and a prognostic
index for patients with cardiovascular disease. Although most animal (mainly rodent) data
support the clinical findings, the mechanisms by which TMAO modulates the cardiovascular system
are still not well understood. In this context, we provide an overview of the potential mechanisms
underlying TMAO-induced cardiovascular diseases at the cellular and molecular levels,
with a focus on atherosclerosis. We also address the direct effects of TMAO on cardiomyocytes (a
new and under-researched area) and finally propose TMAO as a potential biomarker and/or therapeutic
target for diagnosis and treatment of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Withdrawn: Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Exosomes for Treatment of
Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Liu Rucheng , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yundi , Farzaneh Maryam , Khoshnam Seyed Esmaeil
Published: August 2021

The article titled “Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Exosomes for Treatment of Ischemic Stroke”, by Rucheng Liu et al.,
published in Current Stem Cell Research & Therapy 2022; 17. 10.2174/1574888X16666210812151003 has been withdrawn
upon the request of the authors. The authors found that invalid references were cited. Consequently, the authors concluded
that the results could not be guaranteed.

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:

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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.
In situ Gels of Acylovir Nanoemulsions for Improved Delivery to the Eye
Authors: Priyanka Manza M. , Ujwala Shinde A. , Kalyani Sheth M. , Desai Namita
Published: August 2021

Background:

Acyclovir, BCS Class III drug is commercially available as 3% w/w eye
ointment for multiple applications. Acyclovir nanoemulsions can be proposed to reduce dose because
of improved permeation characteristics. Further, the development of in situ ophthalmic gels
can be advantageous to reduce the number of applications due to increased mucoadhesion and sustaining
effect.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was the development and evaluation of nanoemulsions based
in situ gels of Acyclovir (1% w/w) as potential ophthalmic delivery systems.

Methods:

Nanoemulsions of Acyclovir were developed by Phase Inversion Temperature method
using Capmul MCM, stearyl amine and Kolliphor RH 40 as liquid lipid, charge inducer and surfactant,
respectively selected on the basis of Acyclovir solubility in the oil phase and emulsification
ability of surfactants. These nanoemulsions were further developed into in situ ophthalmic gels using
gellan gum and Methocel K4M.

Results:

The developed gels showed a sustained effect in vitro release studies and improved goat
corneal permeation in ex vivo studies when compared to marketed ointment. HET-CAM studies
concluded the absence of irritation potential, while in vivo irritation study in Wistar rats showed the
absence of erythema and swelling of eyes after visual inspection for 72 hours. Histopathological
studies on isolated rat corneas showed no abnormalities in anterior corneal epithelium and corneal
stroma without any epithelial hyperplasia. Acyclovir nanoemulsions based in situ ophthalmic gel
showed increased corneal deposition and permeation in isolated rat eyes.

Conclusion:

The improved potential of developed ophthalmic gels was proven due to the reduced
frequency of application compared to the marketed ointment in animal studies.
COVID-19 Cardiac Complication- Myocarditis
Authors: Maričić Lana , Mihić Damir , Sušić Livija , Loinjak Domagoj
Published: August 2021

Based on the clinical experience, it has been observed that when it comes to the impact of SARS-CoV-2 virus on the cardiovascular system, it is significant. In patients with COVID-19 infection, the development of myocarditis occurs a few days after the onset of fever. The mechanism of myocardial injury alone, as well as most pathologies caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is the subject of research by many experts, but two basic ways can certainly be assumed: a direct toxic effect of SARS-CoV-2 on myocardial cells and another possible way of myocardial injury is to activate the innate immune response by releasing proinflammatory cytokines, as well as to activate the adaptive mechanisms of the autoimmune type by molecular mimicry. The approach to treatment is the same as for other viral myocarditis; it is non-specific, applied supportive treatment, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, low-dose corticosteroid therapy, and immunoglobulins. The aim of this review is to present the previous experiences of physicians around the world on the clinical presentation of myocarditis caused by COVID-19 infection, diagnostic and therapeutic approach in a specific situation of high-risk infection.
Phenotypic and Molecular Detection of BlaNDM Gene Among Drug-Resistant Klebsiella Isolates
Authors: Malik Taqdees , Naim Asma
Published: August 2021

Background:

In the past few centuries, a widespread increase in antimicrobial
resistance has been observed among Klebsiella species. The antibiotic-
resistant strains of the genus Klebsiella are becoming a serious threat in clinical
settings due to their involvement in severe invasive and non-invasive infections.
The emergence of resistance among these strains is associated with their
strong enzymatic activity against several broad-spectrum antibiotics. These enzymes
include beta-lactamases, extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL), AmpC
beta-lactamases, and carbapenemases. These resistance enzymes are capable
of hydrolyzing various broad-spectrum drugs like extended-spectrum cephalosporin
and carbapenems.

Objective:

The present study was conducted to determine the emerging resistance
among Klebsiella strains by identifying the production of carbapenemase
enzyme phenotypically and the frequency of the NDM resistance gene by a polymerase
chain reaction.

Methods:

In this study, 236 Gram-negative isolates from different clinical laboratories
were identified. Out of which, 125 isolates were found as Klebsiella species
by using standard microbiological techniques. Minimum inhibitory concentrations
(MIC) were determined using eight representative antibiotics by the
Macro broth dilution method. Phenotypic detection of carbapenemase producing
Klebsiella species was performed by Modified Hodge Test. Phenotypic findings
were then checked and compared with genotypic results obtained by using the Polymerase
chain reaction (PCR) for the detection of resistance genes responsible
for the production of carbapenemase.

Results:

In this study, carbapenemase production was found only in 6 (5%) Klebsiella
isolates by using the phenotypic method; however, 3 isolates out of 125
were screened positive for the gene NDM-1.

Conclusion:

Since we are considering carbapenems as the last therapeutic option
for treating infections, mainly caused by Gram-negative isolates, the prevailing
resistance against this drug is widely disseminating. It is better to evaluate the
antibiotic susceptibility, phenotypic screening as well genotypic screening
(where possible) for implementing strict antibiotic control policies in health care
settings, hospitals, laboratories, etc.
Sá de Miranda e o Ms. Denis
Authors: Spaggiari Barbara
Published: August 2021

Na tradição manuscrita das Obras de Francisco de Sá de Miranda, o chamado Ms. Denis, designação decorrente do nome de seu antigo possuidor, M. Ferdinand Denis, ocupa um lugar de relevo. Carolina Michaëlis de Vasconcelos escolheu-o como base da sua edição das Poesias, publicada em 1885. Até hoje, a única descrição desse códice quinhentista deve-se precisamente à filóloga alemã. Antes de qualquer estudo que vise a feitura e o conteúdo do ms., torna-se essencial reconstruir as vicissitudes pelas quais o Ms. Denis passou a partir de 1885, data da sua última utilização.
Introdução
Authors: Lessa Elisa , Pipa Luís , Barceló Ricardo
Published: August 2021

No âmbito das comemorações centenárias de Fernando Corrêa de Oliveira e Astor Piazzolla, o presente número da revista Diacrítica, dedicada aos Estudos em Música presta homenagem a Olga Prats, a excecional pianista e pedagoga de carreira distinta e percurso artístico singular, principal e extraordinária intérprete em Portugal da obra para piano do compositor argentino Astor Piazzolla.
PUBLIC OPINION AND POLITICAL PASSIONS IN THE WORK OF GERMAINE DE STAËL
Authors: Groot Eveline
Published: August 2021

In this paper, I investigate the role of public opinion and De Staël’s liberal principles in relation to her psychological image of human nature. De Staël regarded the French Revolution as a new stage of human progress, in which the French people, for the first time, gained a political voice. From her position as a liberal republican, De Staël argues for political progress in the form of civil equality and liberty confirmed by law and political representation, for which public opinion serves as a political tool. I aim to demonstrate that De Staël developed a multi-layered analysis of public opinion as both an emancipatory tool for more equality, justice, and liberty, as well as a discriminating and harmful tool. According to De Staël, human passions play a crucial role in determining the employment and the effects of public opinion, as becomes clear in the case of the trial of Marie-Antoinette.
FROM INNATE MORALITY TOWARDS A NEW POLITICAL ETHOS: SIMONE WEIL WITH CAROL GILLIGAN AND JUDITH BUTLER
Authors: Heifetz Aviad
Published: August 2021

In 1943, Simone Weil proposed to supersede the declaration of human rights with a declaration of obligations towards every human being's balancing pairs of body and soul's needs, for engaging and inspiring more effectively against autocratic and populist currents in times of crisis. We claim that Weil's proposal, which remains pertinent today, may have been sidestepped because her notion of needs lacked a fundamental dimension of relationality, prominent in the 'philosophical anthropology' underlying the (different) visions for a new political ethos of both Judith Butler and Carol Gilligan. From the radical starting point of innate morality common to all three thinkers, we therefore indicate how an enriched notion of interlaced needs, encompassing both balance and relationality, may restore the viability of a declaration of human obligations as a robust source of inspiration. In this combination of balance and relationality, Butler's notion of aggressive nonviolence is key.
Factors Influencing Willingness to Share Health Misinformation Videos on the Internet: Web-Based Survey
Authors: Keselman Alla , Arnott Smith Catherine , Leroy Gondy , Kaufman David R
Published: August 2021

Background

The rapidly evolving digital environment of the social media era has increased the reach of both quality health information and misinformation. Platforms such as YouTube enable easy sharing of attractive, if not always evidence-based, videos with large personal networks and the public. Although much research has focused on characterizing health misinformation on the internet, it has not sufficiently focused on describing and measuring individuals’ information competencies that build resilience.

Objective

This study aims to assess individuals’ willingness to share a non–evidence-based YouTube video about strengthening the immune system; to describe types of evidence that individuals view as supportive of the claim by the video; and to relate information-sharing behavior to several information competencies, namely, information literacy, science literacy, knowledge of the immune system, interpersonal trust, and trust in health authority.

Methods

A web-based survey methodology with 150 individuals across the United States was used. Participants were asked to watch a YouTube excerpt from a morning TV show featuring a wellness pharmacy representative promoting an immunity-boosting dietary supplement produced by his company; answer questions about the video and report whether they would share it with a cousin who was frequently sick; and complete instruments pertaining to the information competencies outlined in the objectives.

Results

Most participants (105/150, 70%) said that they would share the video with their cousins. Their confidence in the supplement would be further boosted by a friend’s recommendations, positive reviews on a crowdsourcing website, and statements of uncited effectiveness studies on the producer’s website. Although all information literacy competencies analyzed in this study had a statistically significant relationship with the outcome, each competency was also highly correlated with the others. Information literacy and interpersonal trust independently predicted the largest amount of variance in the intention to share the video (17% and 16%, respectively). Interpersonal trust was negatively related to the willingness to share the video. Science literacy explained 7% of the variance.

Conclusions

People are vulnerable to web-based misinformation and are likely to propagate it on the internet. Information literacy and science literacy are associated with less vulnerability to misinformation and a lower propensity to spread it. Of the two, information literacy holds a greater promise as an intervention target. Understanding the role of different kinds of trust in information sharing merits further research.
Automated Screening for Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, and Depression From Objective Smartphone-Collected Data: Cross-sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Di Matteo Daniel , Fotinos Kathryn , Lokuge Sachinthya , Mason Geneva , Sternat Tia , Katzman Martin A , Rose Jonathan
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

The lack of access to mental health care could be addressed, in part, through the development of automated screening technologies for detecting the most common mental health disorders without the direct involvement of clinicians. Objective smartphone-collected data may contain sufficient information about individuals’ behaviors to infer their mental states and therefore screen for anxiety disorders and depression.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to compare how a single set of recognized and novel features, extracted from smartphone-collected data, can be used for predicting generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and depression.

METHODS

An Android app was designed, together with a centralized server system, to collect periodic measurements of objective smartphone data. The types of data included samples of ambient audio, GPS location, screen state, and light sensor data. Subjects were recruited into a 2-week observational study in which the app was run on their personal smartphones. The subjects also completed self-report severity measures of SAD, GAD, and depression. The participants were 112 Canadian adults from a nonclinical population. High-level features were extracted from the data of 84 participants, and predictive models of SAD, GAD, and depression were built and evaluated.

RESULTS

Models of SAD and depression achieved a significantly greater screening accuracy than uninformative models (area under the receiver operating characteristic means of 0.64, SD 0.13 and 0.72, SD 0.12, respectively), whereas models of GAD failed to be predictive. Investigation of the model coefficients revealed key features that were predictive of SAD and depression.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate the ability of a common set of features to act as predictors in the models of both SAD and depression. This suggests that the types of behaviors that can be inferred from smartphone-collected data are broad indicators of mental health, which can be used to study, assess, and track psychopathology simultaneously across multiple disorders and diagnostic boundaries.
Identifying Potential Gamification Elements for A New Chatbot for Families with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A User-Centred Design Approach (Preprint)
Authors: Bui Truong An , Pohl Megan , Rosenfelt Cory , Ogourtsova Tatiana , Yousef Mahdieh , Whitlock Kerri , Majnemer Annette , Nicholas David , Epp Carrie Demmans , Zaiane Osmar , Bolduc Francois
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Chatbots have been increasingly considered for applications in the health and social care fields. Currently, it remains unclear how a chatbot could engage users coping with complex health needs, such as parents of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), who often need frequent and ongoing support. One approach to enhancing user engagement is the use of game elements in non-game contexts, known as gamification. To be effective, gamification needs to be tailored to users.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to identify which gamification elements would be the most useful in a chatbot that focuses on supporting families of children and youths with NDDs.

METHODS

We performed a narrative literature review of gamification elements and their current implementation. We then used a qualitative approach, which included a series of focus groups and interviews with caregivers of individuals with NDDs (N = 21) to identify potential gamification elements that could be well-suited for a chatbot focused on NDDs. Transcripts were analyzed for emerging themes.

RESULTS

From our 21 participants, we identified 3 main themes: 1) parents of individuals with NDDs were familiar and had positive experiences with gamification; 2) specific gamification element (goal setting) was considered an important feature for a chatbot for NDDs, whereas others (customization, rewards, and unlockable content) received more mixed opinions; and 3) although social networking was viewed positively, it is a complex feature to implement due to the pertaining issue of medical fact-checking.

CONCLUSIONS

We show for the first time that prospective users (parents of individuals with NDDs) support the use of gamification in a chatbot for NDDs. Our study illustrates the importance of adopting a user-centred design when deciding which gamification elements to include, as some commonly used elements were perceived negatively by this specific group of users.
Sexual Partner Referral for HIV Testing Through Social Networking Platforms: Cross-sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Chiou Piao-Yi , Hung Chien-Ching , Chen Chien-Yu
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Men who have sex with men (MSM) who undergo voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) often report condomless anal sexual intercourse, having many sexual partners, and being exposed to risky sexual networks. Limited research has discussed the application of motivational interviewing and convenience referral platforms to facilitate the referral of sexual partners for HIV testing among MSM.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of VCT referral by sexual partners through social networking platforms and the test results after elicited interviews with MSM; compare the characteristics and risk behaviors among MSM tested without referral, index subjects, and referred sexual partners; and explore unknown sexual affiliations through visualizing and quantifying the social network graph.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit index subjects from a community HIV screening station frequented by MSM in Taipei City on Friday and Saturday nights. Respondent-driven sampling was used to recruit sexual partners. Partner-elicited interviews were conducted by trained staff before VCT to motivate MSM to become index subjects and refer sexual partners via the Line app, or to disclose the accounts and profiles of sexual partners on relevant social networking platforms. Referred sexual partners received rapid HIV testing, and the recruitment process was repeated until leads were exhausted.

RESULTS

After the interviews, 28.2% (75/266) of MSM were successfully persuaded to become index subjects in the first wave, referring 127 sexual partners via the Line app for rapid HIV testing and disclosing 40 sexual partners. The index subjects and tested sexual partners had more sexual partners (F2=3.83, P=.02), more frequent anal intercourse (F2=10.10, P<.001), and higher percentages of those who had not previously received HIV testing (χ21=6.1, P=.047) compared with MSM tested without referrals. The new HIV-seropositivity rate among tested sexual partners was 2.4%, which was higher than the rate in the other 2 groups. The social network analysis revealed the following 4 types of sexual affiliation: chain, Y, star, and complicated. Among the HIV-negative sexual partners, 26.9% (43/160) had sexual affiliations with HIV-positive nodes, and 40% (10/25) were untested sexual partners with a direct sexual affiliation with an HIV-positive node. Four transmission bridges were found in the network graph.

CONCLUSIONS

Partner-elicited interviews can effectively promote referral for HIV testing and case identification via Line, and can clarify unknown sexual affiliations of MSM to facilitate the development of a tailored prevention program. Social network analysis is needed for an insightful understanding of the different network structures.
Peer Review of “Emergence of the First Strains of SARS-CoV-2 Lineage B.1.1.7 in Romania: Genomic Analysis” (Preprint)
Authors: Apetrei Cristian
Published: August 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report.
Understanding Mental Health Professionals’ Perspectives and Practices Regarding the Implementation of Digital Mental Health: Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Mendes-Santos Cristina , Nunes Francisco , Weiderpass Elisabete , Santana Rui , Andersson Gerhard
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Despite the potential of digital mental health to provide cost-effective mental health care, its adoption in clinical settings is limited, and little is known about the perspectives and practices of mental health professionals regarding its implementation or the factors influencing these perspectives and practices.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to characterize in depth the perspectives and practices of mental health professionals regarding the implementation of digital mental health and explore the factors affecting such perspectives and practices.

METHODS

A qualitative study using in-depth semistructured interviews with Portuguese mental health professionals (N=13)—psychologists and psychiatrists—was conducted. The transcribed interviews were thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

Mental health professionals deemed important or engaged in the following practices during the implementation of digital mental health: indication evaluation, therapeutic contract negotiation, digital psychological assessment, technology setup and management, and intervention delivery and follow-up. Low-threshold accessibility and professionals’ perceived duty to provide support to their clients facilitated the implementation of digital mental health. Conversely, the lack of structured intervention frameworks; the unavailability of usable, validated, and affordable technology; and the absence of structured training programs inhibited digital mental health implementation by mental health professionals.

CONCLUSIONS

The publication of practice frameworks, development of evidence-based technology, and delivery of structured training seem key to expediting implementation and encouraging the sustained adoption of digital mental health by mental health professionals.
Detecting Subclinical Social Anxiety Using Physiological Data From a Wrist-Worn Wearable: Small-Scale Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Shaukat-Jali Ruksana , van Zalk Nejra , Boyle David Edward
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Subclinical (ie, threshold) social anxiety can greatly affect young people’s lives, but existing solutions appear inadequate considering its rising prevalence. Wearable sensors may provide a novel way to detect social anxiety and result in new opportunities for monitoring and treatment, which would be greatly beneficial for persons with social anxiety, society, and health care services. Nevertheless, indicators such as skin temperature measured by wrist-worn sensors have not been used in prior work on physiological social anxiety detection.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate whether subclinical social anxiety in young adults can be detected using physiological data obtained from wearable sensors, including heart rate, skin temperature, and electrodermal activity (EDA).

METHODS

Young adults (N=12) with self-reported subclinical social anxiety (measured using the widely used self-reported version of the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale) participated in an impromptu speech task. Physiological data were collected using an E4 Empatica wearable device. Using the preprocessed data and following a supervised machine learning approach, various classification algorithms such as Support Vector Machine, Decision Tree, Random Forest, and K-Nearest Neighbours (KNN) were used to develop models for 3 different contexts. Models were trained to differentiate (1) between baseline and socially anxious states, (2) among baseline, anticipation anxiety, and reactive anxiety states, and (3) social anxiety among individuals with social anxiety of differing severity. The predictive capability of the singular modalities was also explored in each of the 3 supervised learning experiments. The generalizability of the developed models was evaluated using 10-fold cross-validation as a performance index.

RESULTS

With modalities combined, the developed models yielded accuracies between 97.54% and 99.48% when differentiating between baseline and socially anxious states. Models trained to differentiate among baseline, anticipation anxiety, and reactive anxiety states yielded accuracies between 95.18% and 98.10%. Furthermore, the models developed to differentiate between social anxiety experienced by individuals with anxiety of differing severity scores successfully classified with accuracies between 98.86% and 99.52%. Surprisingly, EDA was identified as the most effective singular modality when differentiating between baseline and social anxiety states, whereas ST was the most effective modality when differentiating anxiety among individuals with social anxiety of differing severity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that it is possible to accurately detect social anxiety as well as distinguish between levels of severity in young adults by leveraging physiological data collected from wearable sensors.
Comparing Public Sentiment Toward COVID-19 Vaccines Across Canadian Cities: Analysis of Comments on Reddit (Preprint)
Authors: Yan Cathy , Law Melanie , Nguyen Stephanie , Cheung Janelle , Kong Jude
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Social media enables the rapid consumption of news related to COVID-19 and serves as a platform for discussions. Its richness in text-based data in the form of posts and comments allows researchers to identify popular topics and assess public sentiment. Nonetheless, the vast majority of topic extraction and sentiment analysis based on social media is performed on the platform or country level and does not account for local culture and policies.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to use location-based subreddits on Reddit to study city-level variations in sentiments toward vaccine-related topics.

METHODS

Comments on posts providing regular updates on COVID-19 statistics in the Vancouver (r/vancouver, n=49,291), Toronto (r/toronto, n=20,764), and Calgary (r/calgary, n=21,277) subreddits between July 13, 2020, and June 14, 2021, were extracted. Latent Dirichlet allocation was used to identify frequently discussed topics. Sentiment (joy, sadness, fear, and anger) scores were assigned to comments through random forest regression.

RESULTS

The number of comments on the 250 posts from the Vancouver subreddit positively correlated with the number of new daily COVID-19 cases in British Columbia (R=0.51, 95% CI for slope 0.18-0.29; P<.001). From the comments, 13 topics were identified. Two were related to vaccines, 1 regarding vaccine uptake and the other about vaccine supply. The levels of discussion for both topics were linked to the total number of vaccines administered (Granger test for causality, P<.001). Comments pertaining to either topic displayed higher scores for joy than for other topics (P<.001). Calgary and Toronto also discussed vaccine uptake. Sentiment scores for this topic differed across the 3 cities (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our work demonstrates that data from city-specific subreddits can be used to better understand concerns and sentiments around COVID-19 vaccines at the local level. This can potentially lead to more targeted and publicly acceptable policies based on content on social media.
Pilot testing in the wild: Feasibility, acceptability, usage patterns and efficacy of an integrated web/smartphone platform for bipolar II disorder (Preprint)
Authors: Fletcher Kathryn , Lindblom Katrina , Seabrook Elizabeth , Foley Fiona , Murray Greg
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Bipolar II (BD-II) disorder is associated with significant burden, disability and mortality, yet there continues to be a dearth of evidence-based psychological interventions for this condition. Technology-mediated interventions incorporating self-management have untapped potential to help meet this need as an adjunct to usual clinical care.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this pilot study were to assess the feasibility, acceptability and clinical utility of a novel intervention for BD-II (Tailored Recovery-oriented Intervention for Bipolar II Experiences; TRIBE), in which mindfulness-based psychological content is delivered via an integrated web/smartphone platform. A focus of the study was evaluation of the dynamic usage patterns emerging from ecological momentary assessment and intervention to assist real-world application of mindfulness skills learnt from web-delivered modules.

METHODS

An open trial design using pre-test and post-test assessments with nested qualitative evaluation was used. Individuals (aged 18 to 65) with a diagnosis of BD-II were recruited worldwide and invited to use a prototype of the TRIBE intervention over a 3-week period. Data were collected via online questionnaires and phone interviews at baseline and 3-week follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 18 participants completed baseline and follow-up assessments. Adherence rates (daily app use) were 65.6% across the 3-week study, with up to 88.9% of participants using the app synergistically alongside the web-based program. Despite technical challenges with the prototype intervention (from user, hardware and software standpoints), acceptability was adequate: The majority of participants rated the intervention positively in terms of the concept (companion app with website, n = 19, 76%), content (n = 19, 76%) and credibility, and utility in supporting their management of BD (n = 17, 68%). Evaluation using behavioural archetypes identified important use pathways and a provisional model to inform platform refinement. As hypothesised, depression scores significantly decreased post-intervention (Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale baseline mean = 8.60 vs. follow-up mean = 6.16, t = 2.63, p = .01, d = .53, 95% CI = 0.52, 4.36).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that TRIBE is feasible and represents an appropriate and acceptable self-management program for BD-II. Preliminary efficacy results are promising and support full development of TRIBE informed by the present behavioural archetype analysis. Modifications suggested by the pilot study include increasing the duration of the intervention and increasing technical support.
Effect of Clinical Decision Support Systems on the Antithrombotic Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Ru Xueying , Ma Yunhui , Wang Tianhao , Pan Zhigang
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common arrhythmogenic diseases with high risk of disability and mortality, thereby greatly reducing the quality of life. Thromboembolic prophylaxis plays an essential role in AF therapy. Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) is available for management of AF patients with regard to antithrombotic treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the association between clinical decision support systems (CDSS) and the antithrombotic treatment for the management of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients.

METHODS

We searched the electronic databases PubMed, MEDLINE., Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Biosis Preview for published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the relationship between CDSS and the management of AF patients from inception to April 2021. Two researchers screened these studies independently, extracted data, assessed the risk of bias and evaluated the CDSS features. The primary outcome was the proportion of antithrombotic treatment prescriptions in agreement with recommendations in the guidelines, and the secondary outcome was stroke morbidity and the incidence of adverse events. Meta-analysis was done using Revman5.4.1 and Stata16.1.

RESULTS

We included six RCTs, involving 20,562 subjects (11,334 in the intervention group and 9,228 in the control group). The 14.265 subjects had a primary outcome (7,930 in the intervention group and 6,335 in the control group). The proportion of antithrombotic treatment prescriptions in agreement with recommendations in the guidelines in the intervention group was slightly higher than that in the control group (RR=1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.05, P<.001). Stroke morbidity was not significantly different (RR=1.07, 95% CI: 0.94–1.22, P=.33), but adverse events were lower in the intervention group than that in control group (RR=0.79, 95% CI :0.64–0.98, P=.03). We detected no publication bias for the primary outcome in the meta-analysis (P=.89 for the Egger test and P=.81 for Begg’s test).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of CDSS improved physicians’ compliance with AF guidelines for antithrombotic treatment and decreased adverse events, but did not lower the stroke morbidity.
Anxiety among Indian school children during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional online study (Preprint)
Authors: T B Beena
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Covid-19 has evoked crucial distress around the world. Globally policymakers and leaders have imposed lockdown measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. This study aims to analyze the prevalence of anxiety among adolescent school going children of India during the lockdown period of the covid -19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the anxiety of Covid-19 infection among the school children in India.

METHODS

: In this cross-sectional online survey, 6390 students were assessed for their anxiety levels using CAS (coronavirus anxiety scale) questionnaire. Five factors which is considered as the manifestation of anxiety that have been analysed in this study are dizziness, paralysis, sleep disturbance, stomach disturbance, loss of appetite (LOA) for two weeks.

RESULTS

Most of the respondents reported mild anxiety (94.8%); only 5.2% were found to be suffering from dysfunctional anxiety. Many of the respondents did not report financial crisis, agreed to watch COVID-19 related news on media, anxious about their career and had a neutral opinion about online class. Multiple linear regression analysis (adjusted and unadjusted) revealed that students reporting each response options for the five signs compared to students who have no anxiety have a significant contribution to the total score of anxiety. The anxiety level significantly increased with the family's financial issues, even among students who are satisfied with online classes, living in the containment zone and understandably tested positive for COVID -19.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings showing low anxiety level among our participants suggest that the government policy regarding dissemination of information regarding the disease, prevention of spread, measures are taken by the Government to manage patients, etc., could be the reasons behind such favourable findings.
However, it has to be noted that the pandemic is far from over and might extend for an undefined period which might further increase anxiety among students.
Effectiveness and safety of urapidil in patients with hypertensive crisis complicated with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Koval O.A. , Pavlenko O.N. , Peshekhonova O.M. , Adamskyi V.S. , Romanenko S.V.
Published: August 2021

The objective was to evaluate both the effectiveness and safety of urapidil (Ebrantil) in management of hypertensive emergencies in patients with acute coronary syndrome at the hospital stage and its comparison with other antihypertensive drugs. Systolic, diastolic pressure, and heart rate in 33 patients who were treated with urapidil at different dosage regimen (bolus from 12.5 to 50 mg) and 33 patients treated with other hypertensive drugs. The groups were selected as case — control and compared by the main clinical values. During the hospital treatment the clinical outcomes, rate and effectiveness in achieving target blood pressure were assessed. Urapidil (Ebrantil) use is more effective and safe in management of HE complicated with acute coronary syndome compared with other antihypertensive drugs.