bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ADHERANCE TO BREAST AND CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING ENSURING COMPLIANCE WITH ETHICAL PRINCIPLES IN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Shamsutdinova A. G. , Turdaliyeva B. S. , Ramazanova B. A. , Beltenova A. G.
Published: September 2020

The aim of the study was to assess adherence to breast and cervical cancer screening ensuring compliance with ethical principles.

Material and methods. A total of 1,015 women of target age groups, living in Almaty, the Republic of Kazakhstan, participated in breast and cervical cancer screenings. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from each participant (1,239 questionnaires: 674 for breast cancer screening and 565 for cervical cancer screening). Two hundred and twenty-four women participated in two screenings. The survey was conducted immediately after the respondents had had a mammography and / or Pap test. The questionnaire included the socio-demographic characteristics of women, questions on awareness of screening, level of knowledge before and after screening, sources of information, feelings before screening, after screening and and also after the receipt of test results. Binary logistic regression was used for data analysis.

Results. Sixty-one percent (95 % CI 57.7; 63.1) of women participated in screening for the first time, 39 % (95 % CI 36.4; 41.8) of respondents visited outpatient clinic for the second and the third time. Multivariable analysis revealed that the participation in screening was associated with the purpose of visit, awareness and confidentiality. Thus, women, who arrived at the outpatient clinic with purposes other than screening were 2.3 times less (OR=2 95 % CI 1.6; 3.1) likely to participate in next screening compared to those, who came to the clinic with the purpose of screening as well as those, who were referred by employers (OR=2 95 % CI 1.2; 3.2) or friend/family (OR=2 95 % CI 1.0; 4.3). Women, who had little information about screening as a whole and about screening test before it was taken, were 3 and 2 times less likely to come to screening again (OR=3 95 % CI 1.6; 5.9 and OR=2 95 % CI 0.8; 3.7, respectively). The confidentiality violation led to a decrease in chance (OR=3.5 95 % CI 2.2; 4.9) of being screened again for those women, who experienced nervousness and shame during the screening, and also indicated the presence of nonmedical people during the test.

Conclusion. Measures aimed to ensure compliance to ethics in screening for breast and cervical cancer will improve the quality of screening programs in accordance with international standards, as well as increase the personal responsibility for active participation in screening.
High-throughput profiling of antibiotic resistance genes in wastewater: comparison between a pond system in Namibia and an activated sludge treatment in Germany
Authors: Agrawal Shelesh , Orschler Laura , Sinn Jochen , Lackner Susanne
Published: September 2020

There are increasing concerns about wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) acting as hotspots for antibiotic resistance genes (ARG). However, their role largely depends upon the treatment methods and antibiotics in the wastewater. To better understand these influences, we compared the occurrence and fate of ARG between a pond system in a developing country (Namibia) and an advanced WWTP (activated sludge system) in a developed country (Germany). A targeted metagenomic approach was used to investigate the wide-spectrum profiles of ARGs and their co-occurrence patterns at both locations. In total, 93 ARG subtypes were found in the German influent wastewater, 277 in the Namibian influent wastewater. The abundant ARG types found in Namibia and Germany differed, especially for multidrug resistance genes. The differences in occurrence and reduction can help to understand the performance of simple WWTP such as pond systems common in Namibia, where direct contact with wastewater is a potential risk for contamination.
Molecular detection of Acanthamoeba spp. in Seven Crater Lakes of Laguna, Philippines
Authors: Ballares Lea D. , Masangkay Frederick R. , Dionisio Joseph , Villaflores Oliver , Pineda-Cortel Maria Ruth , Milanez Giovanni D.
Published: September 2020

Acanthamoeba spp. are ubiquitous free-living amoeba with genotypes that cause severe pathology of the eyes, central nervous systems, and rare reports of cutaneous infections. The Seven Crater Lakes are freshwater water resources in Laguna, Philippines primarily used for aquaculture and tourism. A total of 16 surface water samples were collected from different sampling areas per Crater Lake and placed in sterile plastic containers. Samples were filtered using 1.2 μm pore size, glass microfiber filter. Filtered sediments were placed on non-nutrient agar lawned with Escherichia coli and incubated aerobically at 35 °C for 14 days. Six out of 16 water samples exhibited amoebic growth. Cystic stages revealed circular to stellate morphology under light microscopy which were initially classified as Acanthamoeba spp. DNA from positive isolates were made to react with polymerase chain reaction using Acanthamoeba specific primers JDP1 5′-GGCCCAGATCGTTTACCGTGAA-3′ and JDP2 5′-TCTCACAAGCTGCTAGGGAGTCA-3′conﬁrmed the presence of several Acanthamoeba species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of seven isolates belonging to Acanthamoeba genotypes T4, T5, and T9. The presence of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotypes in the Seven Crater Lakes of Laguna signifies risk to human health which necessitates the development of programs, policies, and guidelines on the understanding, prevention, and management of potential human infections.
Perspectivas de estudos comparados a partir da aplicação da escala Likert de 4 pontos: um estudo metodológico da pesquisa TALIS
Authors: Trojan Rose Meri , Sipraki Robson
Published: September 2020

Este estudo analisa a utilização da Escala Likert na pesquisa Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS). O tema justifica-se pelo uso recorrente da estatística nas pesquisas educacionais, especialmente, aquelas que permitem estudos comparados internacionais. O objetivo é avaliar análises apresentadas no relatório TALIS (OCDE, 2009) e verificar as perspectivas do uso da Escala Likert em estudos que utilizam os resultados desta pesquisa. Metodologicamente, partiu-se dos fundamentos estatísticos e procedimentos técnicos relacionados à escala, com base em Reis (1997), Garland (1991) e Oliveira (2001), entre outros, para examinar algumas questões aplicadas aos professores que utilizam a escala Likert de quatro pontos. No caso, Garland (1991) adverte que esta opção pode reforçar uma tendência e compelir os respondentes a marcarem a opção considerada mais adequada. Entre os resultados foram identificados problemas na formulação das questões aplicadas e nas análises presentes no relatório, que prejudicam a avaliação dos temas investigados na pesquisa TALIS.
¿Educación inclusiva en la Enseñanza Superior?: el caso del alumnado con discapacidad
Authors: Díez Anabel Moriña , Rodríguez Víctor Hugo Perera
Published: September 2020

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación (Barreras y ayudas que los estudiantes con discapacidad identifican en la Universidad, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación de España, ref. EDU 2010-16264) en curso que está siendo desarrollada en la Universidad de Sevilla. El propósito de ésta es analizar desde la perspectiva del alumnado con discapacidad cuáles son las barreras y ayudas que encuentran en la Enseñanza Superior (ES). Para realizar el estudio se ha hecho uso del método biográfico-narrativo, que enfatiza la importancia de que las personas hablen de ellas mismas, sin silenciar su subjetividad. La muestra del estudio está constituida por 44 estudiantes. Para el tratamiento de los datos se ha realizado un doble análisis. Para la elaboración de cada historia de vida se ha llevado a cabo un análisis narrativo y para el análisis comparativo de la información recogida con todas las técnicas y personas participantes se ha realizado un análisis estructural, con un sistema de categorías y códigos. En los resultados de este trabajo se presenta la información referida a los facilitadores y obstáculos que los estudiantes con discapacidad identifican en la Universidad de Sevilla, específicamente aquellos que hacen referencia a la Universidad como Institución – personal, espacios, normativa etc. – y al Servicio de Atención a Estudiantes con Discapacidad. Por último, en las conclusiones se retomarán las principales ideas analizadas que se discutirán con otros trabajos previos.
Formação de professores: desafios à educação inclusiva
Authors: Silva Lázara Cristina Da
Published: September 2020

Este texto tem o compromisso de trazer algumas reflexões situando o universo da formação docente e o universo da escolarização do público da educação especial. Buscar-se-á correlacionar essas duas áreas que a princípio parecem distantes, mas que, para entender as características e compromissos da qualificação para o exercício da docência, precisam ser articuladas. Este texto irá trabalhar a formação docente de maneira geral, depois as características imanentes do público da educação especial4 e, no terceiro momento, a confluência entre ambos. A formação de professores para atuar em escolas inclusivas, para escolarizar o público da educação especial é uma realidade iniciada. A questão que se coloca é: qual formação tem sido realizada? Esta formação encontra-se compromissada com que grupo? Quais dificuldades e potencialidades para a formação de professores para atuar neste campo estão desenhadas atualmente? Que tons e cores deseja-se dar às propostas de formação futuras? São muitas as perguntas, aqui são demarcadas apenas algumas delas. Reflexões sobre essas questões envolvem este artigo. Há que se investir na acessibilidade conceitual, atitudinal e pedagógica. A interferência nestas modalidades de acessibilidade demanda compromisso político com a diferença.
Silêncio! Não desperte os inocentes: sexualidade, gênero e educação sexual a partir da concepção de educadores
Authors: Brancaleoni Ana Paula Leivar , Oliveira Rosemary Rodrigues de
Published: September 2020

A escola é um espaço permeado pela sexualidade. Contudo, vários estudos constatam dificuldades para lidar com o tema no cotidiano escolar. A educação sexual também é tema de debates e polêmicas envolvendo a equipe escolar, pais e pesquisadores. Este artigo propõe discutir as concepções de sexualidade e gênero de educadores de uma escola pública do interior de São Paulo. Nesta pesquisa utilizou-se uma abordagem qualitativa. Os instrumentos de coleta de dados foram: observação participante e grupos temáticos com educadores. Os dados foram sistematicamente registrados em diário de campo e foram analisados pelo método de análise de conteúdos. Constatou-se que os educadores não se sentem preparados e nem desejam trabalhar com o tema. Atribuem à família a responsabilidade da educação sexual. Compreendem que a adolescência é a faixa etária correta para que a sexualidade desperte. Entendem que as crianças são inocentes porque não se interessam por sexo. Salienta-se a redução da sexualidade ao sexo e da reprodução dos padrões heteronormativos. Portanto, todos os alunos que não se enquadram nos padrões esperados são vistos como anormais. A principal causa atribuída à “anormalidade” desses estudantes é a configuração familiar em que os mesmos estão inseridos.
Percepções de adolescentes sobre sexualidade e educação sexual
Authors: Zocca Adriana Rodrigues , Muzzeti Luci Regina , Nogueira Natália Souza , Ribeiro Paulo Rennes Marçal
Published: September 2020

Falar em sexualidade com adolescentes nem sempre é uma tarefa fácil, mas extremamente necessária, além de tema transversal em educação. Esta pesquisa tem por objetivo analisar as respostas obtidas com a aplicação de um questionário aos alunos de Ensino Médio de escolas públicas que frequentam cursinho pré-vestibular comunitário na t de Matão/SP. Os resultados mostraram que os adolescentes conhecem o termo educação sexual, no entanto a maioria deles nunca participaram de projetos sobre a temática. As dúvidas estão relacionadas aos aspectos biológicos e de prevenção. O gênero masculino se sente a vontade para conversar sobre sexualidade com os amigos e o gênero feminino com os pais. Sendo assim, percebese a carência de contato com profissionais em educação sexual desses adolescentes e a predominância de discursos biológicos e de prevenção de doenças.
G-Lymphatic, Vascular and Immune Pathways for Aβ Clearance Cascade and Therapeutic Targets For Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chakraborty Saurav , ThimmaReddygari Jyothsna , Selvaraj Divakar
Published: September 2020

Alzheimer's disease is an age-related neurodegenerative disease. The factors causing
Alzheimer's disease are numerous. Research on humans and rodent models predicted various causative
factors involved in Alzheimer's disease progression. Among them, neuroinflammation, oxidative
stress, and apoptosis play a major role because of the accumulation of extracellular amyloid-beta
peptides. Here, the clearance of amyloid beta-peptide plays a major role because of the imbalance
in the production and clearance of the amyloid beta-peptide. Additionally, neuroinflammation
by microglia, astrocytes, cytokines, chemokines, and the complement system also has a major role
in Alzheimer's disease. The physiological clearance pathways involved in amyloid beta-peptide are
glymphatic, vascular, and immune pathways. Amyloid precursor protein, low-density lipoprotein
receptor-related protein 1, receptor for the advanced glycation end product, apolipoprotein E, clusterin,
aquaporin 4, auto-antibodies, complement system, cytokines, and microglia are involved in
amyloid beta-peptide clearance pathways across the blood-brain barrier. The plaque formation in
the brain by alternative splicing of amyloid precursor protein and production of misfolded protein
results in amyloid-beta agglomeration. This insoluble amyloid-beta leads to a neurodegenerative
cascade and neuronal cell death occurs. Studies had shown that disturbed sleep may be a risk factor
for dementia and cognitive decline. In this review, the therapeutic targets for Alzheimer'sdisease
via focusing on pathways for amyloid-beta clearance are discussed.
Unraveling the Action Mechanism of Buyang Huanwu Tang (BYHWT) for Cerebral Ischemia by Systematic Pharmacological Methodology
Authors: Ma Shi-tang , Zhang Ning , Hong Ge , Feng Cheng-Tao , Hong Sheng-Wei , Dai Guo-Liang
Published: September 2020

Background:

Buyang Huanwu Tang (BYHWT) and relevant Traditional Chinese
medicine (TCM) has its unique advantages in the treatment of cerebral ischemia. However, its pharmacological
mechanism has not been fully explained.

Objective:

Base on the multi-component, also the entire disease network targets, the present study
sets out to identify major bioactive ingredients, key disease targets, and pathways of BYHWT
against cerebral ischemia disease by systematic pharmacological methodology.

Methods:

Both the bioactive compounds from the BYHWT and the positive drugs against cerebral
ischemia were fully investigated. The binding targets of the positive drugs were then obtained. A
virtual screening protocol was then used to highlight the compound-target interaction and network
was constructed to visualize the compound-target binding effect after docking analysis. Moreover,
the targets enrichment analysis for biological processes and pathways were performed to further explore
the function of bio-targets protein gene and its role in the signal pathway.

Results:

A total of 382 active ingredients of the BYHWT and 23 candidate disease targets were
identified. Virtual screening results indicated that multiple bioactive compounds targeted multiple
proteins. Each compound acts on one or more targets. The mechanisms were linked to 20 signaling
pathways, and the key mechanism was related to serotonergic synapse, calcium signaling pathway
and camp signaling pathways.

Conclusion:

The present study explored the bioactive ingredients and mechanisms of BYHWT
against cerebral ischemia by systematic pharmacological methodology. The novel methodology
would provide a reference for the lead discovery of precursors, disease mechanism and material
base for TCM.
Antidepressant Drug Design on TCAs and Phenoxyphenylpropylamines
Utilizing QSAR and Pharmacophore Modeling
Authors: Kumar Amit , Nandi Sisir , Saxena Anil Kumar
Published: September 2020

Background:

Depression is a mental illness caused by the imbalance of important neurotransmitters such as serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE). It is a serious neurological disorder that could be treated by antidepressant drugs.

Objective:

There are two major classes such as TCAs and phenoxyphenylpropylamines which have been proven to be
broad-spectrum antidepressant compounds. Several attempts were made to design, synthesize and discover potent antidepressant compounds having the least toxicity and most selectivity towards serotonin and norepinephrine transporters. But
there is hardly any drug design based on quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) and pharmacophore modeling
attempted yet.

Method:

In the present study, many TCAs (dibenzoazepine) and phenoxyphenylpropylamine derivatives are taken into consideration for pharmacophore feature generation followed by pharmacophoric distant related descriptors based QSAR modeling. Further, several five new congeners have been designed which are subjected to the prediction of biological activities
in terms of serotonin receptor affinity utilizing validated QSAR models developed by us.

Results:

An important pharmacophoric feature point C followed by the generation of a topography of the TCAs and phenoxyphenylpropylamine has been predicted. The developed pharmacophoric feature-based QSAR can explain 64.2% of the
variances of 5-HT receptor antagonism. The best training model has been statistically validated by the prediction of test set
compounds. This training model has been used for the prediction of some newly designed congeneric compounds which are
comparable with the existed drugs.

Conclusion:

The newly designed compounds may be proposed for further synthesis and biological screening as antidepressant agents.
Phytase Mediated Beneficial Impact on Nutritional Quality of Biofortified Wheat Genotypes
Authors: Verma Meena , Saxena Abhishake , Sangwan Punesh , Sheikh Imran , Kumar Vinod , Dhaliwal Harcharan S.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Biofortification has been proposed as an intervention towards alleviation
of micronutrient deficiency in the population of developing countries. However, the presence of anti-
nutritional factor phytic acid in staple cereals chelates divalent cations and decreases their bioavailability
for monogastric animals. Thus, the use of phytase enzyme for hydrolysing phytate-P and
enhancing the amount of free divalent cations is of great importance.

Methods :

In this study, two phytases i.e. APF1 phytase from fungal source and commercial wheat
phytase were supplemented with flours of biofortified wheat genotypes and their impact on food
quality parameters was accessed. Since commercial wheat phytase is costly, it was used as known
phytase to compare the application of APF1 phytase. The phytic acid content was reduced in the
range of 70 to 84% with APF1 phytase and 79 to 89% with the wheat phytase as compared to untreated
samples, respectively. In contrast to phytate, the dialyzability of important micronutrients
Fe and Zn enhanced in the range of 21.9 to 48% and 39.5 to 96% with APF1 phytase and, 6.10 to
30% and 23.2 to 81% with wheat phytase, over untreated samples, respectively.

Results and Discussion:

A decrease in tannin content was observed in the range of 8 to 23% and 7
to 23% after treatment with APF1 and wheat phytase, respectively. The phytase treatment has resulted
in increased soluble protein content and inorganic phosphate content to different level over
untreated samples.

Conclusion:

The study revealed that APF1 phytase was comparatively more effective for enhanced
nutritional quality of wheat flour through phytase supplementation for its food based applications.
Vitamins and Cognition: A Nutrigenomics Perspective
Authors: Anitha Ayyappan , Viswambharan Vijitha , Thanseem Ismail , Iype Mary , Parakkal Rahna , Surendran Sumitha P. , Mundalil Mahesh V.
Published: September 2020

The rise in the prevalence of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental cognitive disorders combined with a lack of efficient therapeutic strategies has necessitated the need to develop alternate approaches. Dietary supplements are now being considered as a complementary and alternative medicine for cognitive impairments. Considerable evidence suggests the role of vitamins in modulating the genetic and epigenetic factors implicated in neuropsychiatric, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we provide an overview of the implications of nutrigenomics with reference to vitamins that are suggested to boost cognitive functions (nootropic vitamins). Several vitamins have been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which make them potential candidates in preventing or delaying age-related neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Well-designed longitudinal studies are essential to examine the association between vitamins and cognitive functions. Future studies linking nutrition with advances in neuroscience, genomics and epigenomics would provide novel approaches to managing cognitive disorders.
Computational Study on Identification of Potential Elephantiasis Inhibitors Against UDP-Galactopyranose Mutase (UGM)
Authors: Pandiyan Sangavi , Kulanthaivel Langeswaran
Published: September 2020

Background:

Lymphatic filariasis, regularly known as elephantiasis, is a dismissed tropical
malady. A filarial parasite causes the disease when it is transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. The
World Health Organization distinguished that this is one of the subsequent driving reasons for lasting
and long haul inability. Inaccessibility of immunization and medication opposition of a large portion of
the ebb and flow hostile to filarial drugs necessitate quest of novel medication that focuses on creating
elective medications. UDP-galactopyranose mutase (UGM) is a flavoenzyme that catalyzes the change
of UDP-galactopyranose mutase to UDP-galactofuranose, which is a focal response in galactofuranose
biosynthesis. This UGM is fundamental for some pathogens however, it is missing in people, makes
UGM a potential medication target.

Objective:

In the current investigation, UGM from the parasitic nematode Brugia malayi has been considered
as an objective during in silico medicate planning of powerful filarial inhibitor.

Methods:

Here, we build up the homology model of UGM protein dependent on the gem structure of
4DSG. To break down the quality and unwavering quality of the created model, model approval was
performed utilizing the SAVES server. Mixes from Specs, Enamine, and Maybridge databases were
screened to recognize a potential ligand that could hinder the action of the UGM protein utilizing Glide
HTVS and Glide XP.

Results:

Because of the scoring boundaries, the best 6 hit mixes were chosen and exposed to ADME
forecast utilizing QikProp module from Schrodinger. To check the security of docked buildings, an
atomic element study was completed.

Conclusion:

The consequences of this examination give six novel lead mixes to building up an enemy
of filarial medication focusing on the UGM protein.
Versatile Use of Nanosponge in the Pharmaceutical Arena: A Mini-Review
Authors: Shrestha Shubham , Bhattacharya Sankha
Published: September 2020

Drug delivery for a long time has been a major problem in the pharmaceutical field. The development
of a new Nano-carrier system called nanosponge has shown the potential to solve the problem.
Nanosponge has a porous structure and can entrap the drug in it. It can carry both hydrophilic and
hydrophobic drugs. They also provide controlled release of the drugs and can also protect various substances
from degradation. Nanosponge can increase the solubility of drugs and can also be formulated
into an oral, topical and parenteral dosage form. The current review explores different preparation
techniques, characterization parameters, as well as various applications of nanosponge. Various patents
related to nanosponge drug delivery system have been discussed in this study.
Lifestyle Interventions for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Cross-Sectional Survey to Assess Women's Treatment and Outcome Preferences
Authors: Saslow Laura R , Aikens James E
Published: September 2020

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Diet and lifestyle programs improve health, but women’s preferences for these programs have not been formally explored.

Objective

The aim of our study was to examine diet and lifestyle program preferences among women with PCOS.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of women with PCOS.

Results

At least half of the 197 respondents expressed strong interest in programs addressing energy level, anxiety, depression, weight, diabetes prevention, menstrual period regulation, and hirsutism. Similarly, at least half reported willingness to modify their sleep, stress, and physical activity; and slightly less than half reported willingness to adopt a very low-carbohydrate, paleo, or low–glycemic index diet. At least half reported interest in online or mobile programs and email-based mentoring. Younger age was associated with interest in help with acne and fertility; higher body mass index was associated with wanting help with weight loss, energy, and anxiety; and greater stress eating was associated with wanting help with depression, anxiety, and menstrual period regulation.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine attitudes and preferences of women with PCOS toward such programs. Future online and mobile diet and lifestyle programs may be able to capitalize on this information to better target this population’s expressed preferences.
Parental Online Information Access and Childhood Vaccination Decisions in North America: Scoping Review
Authors: Ashfield Sarah , Donelle Lorie
Published: September 2020

Background

Immunizing children throughout their early years prevents the spread of communicable disease and decreases the morbidity and mortality associated with many vaccine-preventable diseases. Searching online allows individuals rapid access to health information.

Objective

The purpose of this review was to develop an understanding of the existing literature of parents’ online health information-seeking behaviors to inform their vaccination choices for their children and to identify gaps in the literature around parents’ use of online health information and their vaccination choices.

Methods

A scoping review of peer-reviewed literature from Canada and the United States was performed. The following databases were utilized to perform the search: PubMed, CINAHL, Nursing & Allied Health Database, Scopus, and PsycINFO. The purpose of this review was to examine parents’ use of online information seeking related to vaccine information and to understand how parents utilize this information to inform decisions about vaccinating their children. Of the 34 papers included in the review, 4 relevant themes and subthemes were identified: information seeking, online information resources, online vaccine content, and trust in health care providers.

Results

Examination of the literature revealed conflicting information regarding parents’ use of social media and online resources to inform decisions around vaccinating their children. There is evidence of significant misinformation regarding vaccine risks online. Parents’ digital health literacy levels are unknown and may affect their ability to appraise online vaccination information.

Conclusions

Parents are seeking vaccine information from online sources. However, the influence of online vaccine information on parental vaccine practices remains uncertain.
Twelve-Month Follow-Up to a Fully Automated Internet-Based Cognitive Behavior Therapy Intervention for Rural Adults With Depression Symptoms: Single-Arm Longitudinal Study
Authors: Schure Mark , McCrory Bernadette , Tuchscherer Franklin Kathryn , Greist John , Weissman Ruth Striegel
Published: September 2020

Background

Internet-based cognitive behavior therapy (iCBT) interventions have the potential to help individuals with depression, regardless of time and location. Yet, limited information exists on the longer-term (>6 months) effects of iCBT and adherence to these interventions.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the longitudinal (12 months) effectiveness of a fully automated, self-guided iCBT intervention called Thrive, designed to enhance engagement with a rural population of adults with depression symptoms. The secondary aim was to determine whether the program adherence enhanced the effectiveness of the Thrive intervention.

Methods

We analyzed data from 181 adults who used the Thrive intervention. Using self-reports, participants were evaluated at baseline, 8 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months for the primary outcome of depression symptom severity using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scale and secondary outcome measures, namely, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7) scores, Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS) scores, Conner-Davidson Resilience Scale-10 (CD-RISC-10) scores, and suicidal ideation (ninth item of the PHQ-9 scale) scores. The Thrive program adherence was measured using the numbers of program logins, page views, and lessons completed.

Results

The assessment response rates for 8-week, 6-month, and 12-month outcomes were 58.6% (106/181), 50.3% (91/181), and 51.4% (93/181), respectively. By 8 weeks, significant improvements were observed for all outcome measures. These improvements were maintained at 12 months with mean reductions in severities of depression (mean –6.5; P<.001) and anxiety symptoms (mean –4.3; P<.001). Improvements were also observed in work and social functioning (mean –6.9; P<.001) and resilience (mean 4.3; P<.001). Marked decreases were observed in suicidal ideation (PHQ-9 ninth item score >1) at 6 months (16.5%) and 12 months (17.2%) compared to baseline (39.8%) (P<.001). In regard to the program adherence, cumulative counts of page views and lessons completed were significantly related to lower PHQ-9, GAD-7, and WSAS scores and higher CD-RISC-10 scores (all P values <.001 with an exception of page views with WSAS for which P value was .02).

Conclusions

The Thrive intervention was effective at reducing depression and anxiety symptom severity and improving functioning and resilience among a population of adults from mostly rural communities in the United States. These gains were maintained at 1 year. Program adherence, measured by the number of logins and lessons completed, indicates that users who engage more with the program benefit more from the intervention.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03244878; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03244878
Effectiveness of Social Cognitive Theory–Based Interventions for Glycemic Control in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Smith Yvonne , Garcia-Torres Rosalia , Coughlin Steven S , Ling Jiying , Marin Terri , Su Shaoyong , Young Lufei
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

For those living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), failing to engage in self-management behaviors leads to poor glycemic control. Social cognitive theory (SCT) has been shown to improve health behaviors by altering cognitive processes and increasing an individual’s belief in their ability to accomplish a task.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to present a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis to systematically identify, evaluate, and analyze the effect of SCT-based interventions to improve glycemic control in adults with T2DM.

METHODS

This protocol follows the 2009 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Data sources will include PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsychINFO, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, and data will be reviewed with the use of customized text mining software. Studies examining SCT-based behavioral interventions for adults diagnosed with T2DM in randomized controlled trials located in the outpatient setting will be included. Intervention effectiveness will be compared with routine care. Screening and data collection will be performed in multiple stages with three reviewers as follows: (1) an independent review of titles/abstracts, (2) a full review, and (3) data collection with alternating teams of two reviewers for disputes to be resolved by a third reviewer. Study quality and risk of bias will be assessed by three reviewers using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Standardized mean differences will be used to describe the intervention effect sizes with regard to self-efficacy and diabetes knowledge. The raw mean difference of HbA1c will be provided in a random effects model and presented in a forest plot. The expected limitations of this study are incomplete data, the need to contact authors, and analysis of various types of glycemic control measures accurately within the same data set.

RESULTS

This protocol was granted institutional review board exemption on October 7, 2019. PROSPERO registration (ID: CRD42020147105) was received on April 28, 2020. The review began on April 29, 2020. The results of the review will be disseminated through conference presentations, peer-reviewed journals, and meetings.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review will appraise the effectiveness of SCT-based interventions for adults diagnosed with T2DM and provide the most effective interventions for improving health behaviors in these patients.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO CRD42020147105; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=147105

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/17148
Compensatory Social Networking Site Use, Family Support, and Depression Among College Freshman: Three-Wave Panel Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhou Mingjie , Li Fugui , Wang Yanhong , Chen Shuang , Wang Kexin
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Freshmen were found to use social networking sites (SNS) as a useful medium to effectively adjust to college life, which hints at a tendency to resort to SNS for social compensation. However, the compensatory use of SNS is usually problematic.

OBJECTIVE

This study explores why a subgroup of freshmen developed depressive symptoms while socially adjusting to college by investigating the antecedent role of introversion, the explanatory role of compensatory use of SNS, and the protective role of perceived family support. The study is among the first to point out the relevance of the compensatory use of SNS in explaining the indirect association between introversion and depression with a longitudinal design.

METHODS

A 3-wave panel sample of freshmen (N=1137) is used to examine the moderated mediation model.

RESULTS

We found that introversion at Wave 1 positively predicted compensatory use of SNS at Wave 2 and subsequently increased depression at Wave 3 (unstandardized B=0.07, SE 0.02, P<.001, 95% CI 0.04-0.10; unstandardized B=0.09, SE 0.01, P<.001, 95% CI 0.06-0.12). The moderated mediation model further examined the buffering role of perceived family support within the link between introversion and compensatory SNS use (index=0.0031, SE 0.0015, 95% CI 0.0003-0.0062). Unexpectedly, we found that family support in Wave 1 decreased compensatory SNS use for less introverted freshmen in Wave 2 and further decreased depression in Wave 3.

CONCLUSIONS

Unexpectedly, our findings uncover an enhancing effect, rather than a buffering effect, of family support by embedding its effect within the relationship between introversion and compensatory SNS use. Appreciating the differences in the casual pathways for freshmen with different levels of introversion clarifies how SNS affect young adults' lives.
Investigating the Attitudes of Adolescents and Young Adults Towards JUUL: Computational Study Using Twitter Data (Preprint)
Authors: Benson Ryzen , Hu Mengke , Chen Annie T , Nag Subhadeep , Zhu Shu-Hong , Conway Mike
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Increases in electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) use among high school students from 2017 to 2019 appear to be associated with the increasing popularity of the ENDS device JUUL.

OBJECTIVE

We employed a content analysis approach in conjunction with natural language processing methods using Twitter data to understand salient themes regarding JUUL use on Twitter, sentiment towards JUUL, and underage JUUL use.

METHODS

Between July 2018 and August 2019, 11,556 unique tweets containing a JUUL-related keyword were collected. We manually annotated 4000 tweets for JUUL-related themes of use and sentiment. We used 3 machine learning algorithms to classify positive and negative JUUL sentiments as well as underage JUUL mentions.

RESULTS

Of the annotated tweets, 78.80% (3152/4000) contained a specific mention of JUUL. Only 1.43% (45/3152) of tweets mentioned using JUUL as a method of smoking cessation, and only 6.85% (216/3152) of tweets mentioned the potential health effects of JUUL use. Of the machine learning methods used, the random forest classifier was the best performing algorithm among all 3 classification tasks (ie, positive sentiment, negative sentiment, and underage JUUL mentions).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that a vast majority of Twitter users are not using JUUL to aid in smoking cessation nor do they mention the potential health benefits or detriments of JUUL use. Using machine learning algorithms to identify tweets containing underage JUUL mentions can support the timely surveillance of JUUL habits and opinions, further assisting youth-targeted public health intervention strategies.
Recurrence plot and convolutional neural network-based signal quality assessment method for using photoplethysmogram in mobile environment (Preprint)
Authors: Shin Hangsik
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

In clinical use of photoplethysmogram, waveform distortion due to motion noise or low perfusion may lead to inaccurate analysis and diagnostic results. Therefore, it is necessary to find an appropriate analysis method to evaluate the signal quality of the photoplethysmogram so that its wide use in mobile healthcare can be further increased.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop a machine learning model that could accurately evaluate the quality of a photoplethysmogram based on the shape of the photoplethysmogram and the phase relevance in a pulsatile waveform without requiring a complicated pre-processing. Its performance was then verified.

METHODS

Photoplethysmograms were recorded for 76 participants (5 minutes for each participant). All recorded photoplethysmograms were segmented for each beat to obtain a total of 49,561 pulsatile segments. These pulsatile segments were manually labeled as 'good' and 'bad' classes and converted to a two-dimensional phase space trajectory image with size of 124 × 124 using a recurrence plot. The classification model was implemented using a convolutional neural network with a two-layer structure. It was verified through a five-fold cross validation.

RESULTS

As a result, the proposed model correctly classified 48,827 segments out of 49,561 segments and misclassified 734 segments, showing a balanced accuracy of 0.975. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive values of the developed model for the test dataset with a ‘bad’ class classification were 0.964, 0.987, and 0.848, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.994.

CONCLUSIONS

The convolutional neural network model with recurrence plot as input proposed in this study can be used for signal quality assessment as a generalized model with high accuracy through data expansion. It has an advantage in that it does not require a complicated pre-processing or feature detection process.

CLINICALTRIAL

KCT0002080
The Greatest Success in the Comex Company: Matching Color through Computer Technology Manuel Ignacio
Authors: Gonzale Campos , Perez Candido Gonzalez
Published: September 2020

The Comex company went through a large number of changes in administrative matters, in sales, in labor processes and in the implementation of technological innovations; It started with Mexican capital and sold its entire operation to foreign companies. The main objective of this document is to explain how one of its main problems was solved in the transformation of its products, for which we describe the implementation of a technological development consisting of the matching of colors by means of a computerized equipment. The method used for the exhibition is the qualitative one and in particular it is based on testimonies of life of the dealers. The results can be analyzed from the perspective of business, administrative or human resources; For any of them, the success that this internal change in painting production produced is remarkable.
Leading Change and Crisis: How Transformational Changes Can Be Successful Nowadays?
Authors: Fragouli Evangelia , Tourlaki Theodora
Published: September 2020

Nowadays, the world scene is changing at a fast pace. The increase of competition, technological developments, financial downturns, market expansion, legal and political instabilities are forcing the international business environment to transformational changes. Researchers agree that most transformation efforts produce only middle level results. Changes can be stimulating in an organization, but are often met with negative emotions such as stress and fear which result in resistance and in organizational crisis. Literature review reveals that crisis will always accompany changes. The aims of this study are to bridge leadership effectiveness and leader’s competencies in the context of leading change and crisis under the optimal profile of transformational leadership. The study is based on a critical literature review following a qualitative research approach of reviewing secondary data and sources. The main conclusion of this study is that transformational changes can be successful with the proper guidance and support of the leaders. Transformational leadership is considered critical during times of change because of the importance leaders to encourage and implement changes but also to encourage, engage and motivate their followers to accept changes.
Distribuciones de probabilidad en las ciencias de la complejidad: una perspectiva contemporánea
Authors: Fontanelli Espinoza Oscar , Mansilla Corona Ricardo Lino , Miramontes Vidal Pedro Eduardo
Published: September 2020

La ciencia en el siglo XXI está siendo dominada por nuevos enfoques que involucran la interdisciplina, la perspectiva de sistemas y los conceptos de la teoría de la complejidad. Estos nuevos paradigmas nos obligan a dejar de lado los antiguos enfoques mecanicistas y adoptar nuevos puntos de partida basados en la aleatoriedad, la caoticidad, la estadística y la probabilidad. En este trabajo revisamos los conceptos fundamentales de la teoría de los sistemas complejos y los principales modelos probabilísticos clásicos que se utilizan en este contexto: leyes de grandes números, teorema del límite central y distribuciones normales y estables. Hablamos también de las leyes de potencias como el principal modelo para describir fenómenos con distribución de cola pesada y exploramos los principales problemas que muestran en la práctica estos modelos. Posteriormente, hablaremos de una alternativa reciente para la descripción de este tipo de fenómenos y mostraremos, por último, un par de ejemplos que ilustran el uso de este nuevo modelo.
Antropología de la educación en México: trama interdisciplinar y urdimbre política
Authors: Ayala Reyes Susana
Published: September 2020

La antropología de la educación en México se ha constituido desde el siglo XX como un campo de investigación sólido. Los estudios hechos por antropólogos mexicanos o extranjeros que han realizado investigación en nuestro país han abierto diálogos y marcado pautas para el desarrollo del campo en otros países. Paradójicamente, la educación es uno de los temas formalmente menos trabajados en las instituciones dedicadas a la antropología en México. En este artículo reflexiono sobre las posibles causas de esta ausencia y señalo los diálogos correspondientes entre distintas disciplinas mediante los que se construye la antropología de la educación. Argumento que, ante los problemas sociales y educativos que enfrenta México en el siglo XXI, es necesario abrir espacios formales para hacer investigación antropológica sobre la educación desde una perspectiva interdisciplinaria.
Emociones y reglas del sentir como impactos culturales de los movimientos sociales
Authors: Gravante Tommaso
Published: September 2020

Desde el campo del estudio de los movimientos sociales, presento en este artículo una primera propuesta analítica que tome en cuenta la dimensión emocional como una consecuencia cultural de los movimientos sociales. Mostraré dos tipos de impactos emocionales: i) cómo algunas emociones son el resultado de la acción de protesta, y, ii) cómo el desarrollo de nuevas reglas del sentir de las experiencias observadas se pueden considerar otra consecuencia de su propia acción política. El punto de partida de la propuesta son los resultados de anteriores investigaciones sobre el papel de las emociones en los movimientos de base mexicanos.
Estilos estatales de regulación de las drogas ilegales en Sudamérica
Authors: Labiano Virginia
Published: September 2020

Un elemento importante en las relaciones Estado-sociedad es la forma en que los Estados regulan los comportamientos individuales a través de diferentes tipos de sanciones; ejemplo de ello es el modo en que los Estados intentan modificar la conducta de las personas hacia las drogas ilegales. A partir del marco conceptual propuesto por Knill, Adam y Hurka (2015) para el análisis de las políticas morales en Europa, este artículo explora los diferentes estilos estatales de regulación de las drogas ilegales en Sudamérica. Los autores mencionados proponen una clasificación a partir de la consistencia entre los límites legales que se imponen a ciertas conductas y las consecuencias que implican para los ciudadanos que deciden no cumplir tales límites, lo que resulta en cuatro estilos estatales de regulación: autoritario, autoritario-benevolente, permisivo-punitivo y permisivo. Se toma la legislación vigente en el subcontinente para comparar las diferentes medidas que los Estados imponen ante la posesión de drogas ilegales y las sanciones que conllevan. Si bien se trata de un trabajo descriptivo, este mapa nos permite ver que en Sudamérica prevalecen leyes severas en relación con esta práctica. El trabajo contribuye al estudio de los estilos estatales de regulación al enfocarse en otra región geográfica.
Más allá de las reformas inclusivas. Los obstáculos (formales e informales) a la igualdad de género en América Latina
Authors: Uribe Mendoza Cristhian José
Published: September 2020

Reseña:

Freidenberg, Flavia; Caminotti, Mariana; Muñoz-Pogossian, Betilde y Tomáš Došek (eds.) (2018) Mujeres en la política. Experiencias nacionales y subnacionales en América Latina. Ciudad de México: Instituto Electoral de la Ciudad de México/Instituto de Investigaciones Jurídicas, UNAM.
La organización del crimen: delincuentes y caciques en tiempos de “guerra al narco”
Authors: Gaussens Pierre
Published: September 2020

Este artículo busca contribuir al análisis de la criminalidad y de su historia contemporánea en el sur de México, desde una perspectiva crítica y una metodología cualitativa, a partir de un caso de estudio en particular: el municipio de Ayutla de los Libres, en la Costa Chica de Guerrero, donde operó un grupo delictivo de 2008 a 2013 en el contexto de la “guerra al narcotráfico”. Al mismo tiempo que demuestra la utilidad del método etnográfico para el estudio de la criminalidad, la investigación de terreno revela una realidad local que contradice el discurso dominante sobre el llamado “narco” y, en cambio, ilustra la profundidad del nexo político-criminal que une a delincuentes y funcionarios en la organización del crimen.