bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomes and Exosomal microRNAs in Age-associated Stroke
Authors: Wang Xiang , Fu Changmei Huang , Zhu Xiudeng , Liu Jiehong , Gong Xinqin , Pan Qunwen , Ma Xiaotang
Published: February 2021

Aging has been considered to be the most important non-modifiable risk factor for
stroke and death. Changes in circulation factors in the systemic environment, cellular senescence
and artery hypertension during human ageing have been investigated. Exosomes are nanosize membrane
vesicles that can regulate target cell functions via delivering their carried bioactive molecules
(e.g. protein, mRNA, and microRNAs). In the central nervous system, exosomes and exosomal microRNAs
play a critical role in regulating neurovascular function and are implicated in stroke initiation
and progression. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that have been reported to play critical
roles in various biological processes. Recently, evidence has shown that microRNAs are packaged
into exosomes and can be secreted into the systemic and tissue environment. Circulating microRNAs
participate in cellular senescence and contribute to age-associated stroke. Here, we provide
an overview of current knowledge on exosomes and their carried microRNAs in the regulation
of cellular and organismal ageing processes, demonstrating the potential role of exosomes and their
carried microRNAs in age-associated stroke.
Collagen Peptides, in Association with Vitamin C, Sodium Hyaluronate,
Manganese and Copper, as Part of the Rehabilitation Project in the Treatment
of Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Farì Giacomo , Santagati Dario , Pignatelli Giovanni , Scacco Venera , Renna Domenico , Cascarano Giuseppe , Vendola Francesco , Bianchi Francesco Paolo , Fiore Pietro , Ranieri Maurizio , Megna Marisa
Published: February 2021

Background and Objective:

Low back pain (LBP) is a frequent symptom. Among the
causes that can determine it, lumbar osteoarthritis plays an important role. Therapeutic exercise, according
to McKenzie method, has been shown to be effective in the treatment of LBP. Oral supplementation
with collagen peptides represents a new therapeutic possibility in osteoarthritis. The aim
of this study is to evaluate the combined efficacy of therapeutic exercise and oral administered viscosupplements
in the treatment of osteoarthritis-related chronic LBP.

Methods:

Sixty patients were recruited and randomly divided into two groups (Group A and B).
Group A performed only kinesitherapy, Group B carried out the same kinesitherapy combined with
the daily administration of food supplements such as Fortigel®, Vitamin C, sodium hyaluronate,
manganese and copper, during the whole treatment period. Patients were evaluated at the time of recruitment
(T0), at the end of the treatment (T1 - 3 weeks after T0) and 6 weeks after T1 (T2). The
outcome measures used were: Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI),
and Short Form-12 (SF-12).

Results:

All the outcomes improved significantly at T1 in both groups, but more markedly in
group B. Furthermore, in group A at T2, there was a statistically significant worsening in the
scores of VAS, ODI and physical component of the SF-12, while in group B, this variation has not
been detected.

Conclusions:

The combination of rehabilitation based on McKenzie back exercises and oral viscosupplementation
with Fortigel®, Vitamin C, sodium hyaluronate, manganese and copper represents
a valid option in patients with chronic LBP, as it ensures pain relief and improvement in the
quality of life and in lumbar spine functionality. These therapeutic benefits are more evident and
long-lasting compared to those obtained with rehabilitation alone.
Minocycline and Doxycycline: More Than Antibiotics
Authors: Singh Sher , Khanna Deepa , Kalra Sanjeev
Published: February 2021

:

Minocycline and doxycycline both are second-generation tetracycline antibiotic with similar chemical structures and comparable antibacterial spectrum. Minocycline has also emerged as the tetracycline of choice for multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections, although doxycycline has also shown the activity. Minocycline showed promising results in experimental neurology, which was due to its highly lipophilic nature. It is clinically safe and effective adjunct to antipsychotic medications.The objective of the current review is to provide clinical and preclinical, non-antibiotic uses of minocycline as well as doxycycline.Relevant literature covers antibiotic actions but is more specifically concerned with the non-antibiotic biological aspect of the tetracyclines. Non-antibiotic biological effects for both the antibiotics were identified through searching relevant databases including: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to 2020, using the keywords ‘minocycline and doxycycline’. Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic neuroprotective, immunomodulatory and number of other non-antibiotic effects were compiled for minocycline and doxycycline.
Statins Attenuate Fibrotic Manifestations of Cardiac Tissue Damage
Authors: Gorabi Armita M. , Kiaie Nasim , Bianconi Vanessa , Pirro Matteo , Jamialahmadi Tannaz , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: February 2021

Cardiac fibrosis is a maladaptive condition secondary to cardiomyopathy caused by a
wide spectrum of stimuli, including myocardial infarction (MI), pressure overload, hyperglycemia,
aging, and other factors. Despite having been supposed to be a reparative mechanism, the development
of cardiac fibrosis can result in undesirable outcomes like the disruption of excitation-contraction
coupling and ventricular hypertrophy, leading finally to heart failure (HF). Statins are known
as potent cardioprotective agents widely used to control dyslipidemia; these drugs have exhibited
protective effects against manifestations of cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy. Cumulative evidence
has suggested that statins attenuate the severity of fibrotic and hypertrophic manifestations of cardiac
damage by affecting a variety of mechanisms like differentiation of myofibroblasts and crosstalk
between cells in cardiac tissue as well as altering the expression and function of different
molecules involved in cardiac remodeling, including inflammatory cytokines and signaling
molecules. It seems that statins can inhibit cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy not only through their
ability to inhibit hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase but also by their pleiotropic properties.
This review aims to discuss the effects of statins on molecular pathways involved in the inhibition
of fibrotic and hypertrophic remodeling in the heart, thereby potentially helping to recover proper
cardiac size, plasticity, and functioning.
Aryltetralin-type Lignan of Podophyllum: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Dharmendra , Rajagopal Mogana , Akowuah Gabriel Akyirem , Lee Yong-Xin , Chong Chua Wei , Gan Pei Wen , Liew Jeou Chyi
Published: February 2021

:

Podophyllotoxin is a nonalkaloid toxin aryltetralin lactone lignan, occurring naturally
and extracted from the rhizomes and roots of Podophyllum species. Podophyllotoxin and its derivatives
have been shown to possess a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, mainly antineoplastic
and antiviral properties. Podophyllotoxin serves as a potential anticancer agent and also the
precursor for the chemical synthesis of some clinically important anticancer agents. The chemical
modification and pharmacological investigation of podophyllotoxin derivatives have become a concern
nowadays. Research interest has been stimulated towards the innovation of podophyllotoxin
derivatives as the semi-synthetic anticancer agents, especially etoposide and teniposide. Podophyllotoxin
and its derivatives are available in several formulations and also found to be effective in
combination therapy. This review article aims to provide an overview of the role of podophyllotoxin,
its mechanism of action, pharmacological activities, pharmacokinetics, available formulations,
and its effects in combination therapy. This article also reviews the biosynthesis, structure
and modifications of podophyllotoxin and its derivatives as an anticancer agent.
Curcumin Loaded Ethosomal Gel for Improved Topical Delivery: Formulation,
Characterization and Ex-vivo Studies
Authors: Kumar Bhumika , Sahoo P.K. , Manchanda Satish
Published: February 2021

Background:

Curcumin is a curcuminoid which is an active constituent of turmeric and is obtained from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa, family Zingiberaceae. Curcumin modulates the activity of various transcription factors and regulates the expression of inflammatory enzymes, cell survival proteins, adhesion molecules and cytokines by binding to a variety of proteins and inhibiting the activity of various kinases. Curcumin falls in the BCS class IV drug, with poor solubility and poor permeability which makes it very challenging in utilizing the maximum therapeutic potential of this moiety.

Objective:

The major aim of the study was to enhance transdermal penetration of curcumin via ethosomal gel and to overcome the barriers of poor permeability of transdermal drug delivery.

Methods:

Curcumin loaded ethosomes were prepared with varying quantities of ethanol and soya lecithin by cold method and were optimised based on entrapment efficiency, vesicular size and Ex-vivo studies. Optimised ethosomal formulation was further incorporated into a gel and was evaluated. Ex-vivo studies were performed with the ethosomal gel of curcumin and was compared with simple drug solution.

Result:

Prepared ethosomal system showed a vesicle size ranging from 211 to 320 nm with spherical, smooth surface and entrapment efficiency of 87 to 91%. Optimised ethosomal system (ET3) was incorporated into gel and was further evaluated.

Conclusion:

The findings of the research work suggested that the ethosomal gel holds an excellent potential for transdermal delivery of curcumin.
An Apparatus Designed for Coating and Coloration of Filaments Used in Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D Printing
Authors: Chohan Piyush , Yadav Aniket , Kumar Ranvijay , Kumar Raman , Chohan Jasgurpreet Singh
Published: February 2021

Background:

Three dimensional (3D) printing is emerging technology, capable of manufacturing a solid layer by layer. With the advancements of materials for 3D printing, this technology is applicable in almost every sector. But in accordance with the product requirements we need to modify the mechanical properties of material. To achieve good surface finish we require coating of filament. For this purpose an apparatus is designed for coating of material over a filament, which is capable of coating filaments uniformly and with automated process.

Objective:

The objective of present invention is directed to a filament feeding device for applying uniform coating on a filament in order to make 3D solid objects with good quality finishing, thereby eliminating the chances of strains and imperfect coating on the filament.

Methods:

The present invention relates to a filament feeding device, comprising a container equipped within the device for storing a chemical solution in a liquefied form, an inlet port fabricated on the container for inserting a filament inside the container, plurality of relief valves placed at a bottom portion of the container for controlling the leakage of the filaments during insertion of the filaments. A stepper motor in association with a blade equipped within the container to rotate the main extruder of a 3D printer, and an outlet port designed opposite to the inlet port for discharging the filament from the container for 3D printing of the filament in order to manufacture the solid object.

Results:

The apparatus makes it easy for coating and coloration of materials to make the reinforced composite filaments. As this apparatus provides uniform coating of material on the filaments, the product printed by filaments have good surface finish.

Conclusion:

The proposed method can reduce coating time and printing time. This work provides meaningful implication to researchers who are doing research in the domain of additive manufacturing.
José García Bryce
Authors: Beingolea Del Carpio José
Published: February 2021

Lo conocimos en 1972 como profesor de Historia de la Arquitectura 1 en la UNI, con su pausado hablar, blanca cabellera y sutiles anteojos, reveladores de su dedicación lectora y proyectual, conduciéndonos por Oriente, Grecia y Roma; luego lo tuvimos hablándonos del Renacimiento, el Barroco y el Rococó, estimulando nuestra vocación por la historia. Más adelante lo reencontramos en el curso de Arquitectura peruana, estableciendo los vínculos entre la arquitectura europea y la realizada en el Perú bajo su influjo, pasando por los cambios ocurridos en la República llegando hasta el periodo moderno. Ahí nació nuestro interés por entender y explicar el complejo proceso cultural desprendido de la Conquista en adelante.
Ciudad histórica habitada "Vida contemporánea/Hogar histórico". Manifiesto desde Arequipa hacia Latinoamérica
Authors: Loayza Vela Mónica
Published: February 2021

¿Si más allá de rehabilitar la vivienda de nuestro centro histórico, para generar usos de paso, contemplativos y bonitos, nos proponemos entre todos gestionar su renovación integral? ¿Podríamos amplificar nuestra identidad colectiva y recuperar las relaciones que nos otorgan derechos como sujetos patrimoniales? Se admiten propuestas.Nuestra Ciudad no fue así desde el comienzo, como uno imagina. En su momento fue pueblo niño. Había otra ciudad debajo de esta, y otra y otra más de sillares amarillos de sol y callecitas de tierra. Y por una de esas callecitas ahí, crecieron nuestros padres y abuelos, muy de cuerpo presente vivieron. Y ese fue el momento y la luz de ellos.Mas ahora, para nosotros es diferente, mantenemos una desvelada memoria del pasado que por lo general deconstruye nuestra ciudad histórica, reconfigurando escenarios y personas, en ausencia de vivienda, negándoles una verdadera conexión con el tiempo y diversidad en su unión histórica. Y ese, precisamente, es el motivo y la búsqueda de nuestro manifiesto.
Diseño del modelo hidráulico virreinal utilizado en Centro Histórico de Lima para abastecimiento de agua
Authors: Gonzalez Espino David
Published: February 2021

El trabajo tiene como objetivo el diseño del modelo hidráulico Virreinal en el Centro Histórico de Lima, partiendo de un sistema prehispánico que se desarrollaba bajo las aguas del rio Rímac. A partir de la fundación de la ciudad se utilizan nuevas tecnologías arquitectónicas así como uso de materiales para desarrollar un modelo capaz de administrar correctamente el agua en la ciudad. Con el crecimiento urbano se presentan acueductos, canales secundarios, cajas de agua, boquillas, tuberías, fuentes y alcantarillas que formaran parte de modelo hidráulico de la ciudad de Lima que servirá para abastecer de agua a sus vecinos en esta etapa virreinal.
Régimen de protección y conservación del patrimonio arquitectónico en la República Argentina. Criterios de tutela en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires
Authors: Basile Silvana Daniela
Published: February 2021

El problema del patrimonio instrumento indispensable de conocimiento y de su tutela revisten cada vez mayor importancia en el debate contemporáneo en cuanto testimonio identitario de formas de vida y de culturas, conscientes de que no es posible en la arquitectura garantizar el conocimiento de la cultura del pasado si no es conservando la materia que lo atestigua.El presente artículo aborda el tema del régimen de protección y conservación del patrimonio arquitectónico en la República Argentina con el objetivo de analizar el desarrollo de los instrumentos de protección (políticas patrimoniales) a nivel nacional, Argentina, y principalmente a nivel local de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Hace un análisis preliminar de la legislación existente, desde las primeras normativas de preservación hasta aquellas actualmente vigentes.Examina su desarrollo y sus límites, trazando la historia de las medidas adoptadas y evaluando la eficacia de las especificaciones técnicas que, aunque referidas a la situación argentina, adquieren un significado universal.
Ab initio моделирование влияния расположения и свойств упорядоченных вакансий на магнитное состояние монослоя графена
Authors: Асадов M.M. , Мустафаева С.Н. , Гусейнова С.C. , Лукичев В.Ф. , Тагиев Д.Б.
Published: February 2021

Ab initio-методом псевдопотенциала в рамках DFT моделированы свойства гексагонального графена с учетом влияния вакансий, связанных с ближнеупорядоченной структурой. Рассчитаны магнитные свойства суперъячеек графена с 18, 54 и 96 атомами углерода с моно- и дивакансиями. Внесения вакансий углерода на монослой графена вызывает появление локального магнитного момента. Численные оценки величины магнитного момента выполнены для суперъячеек графена с 18, 54 и 96 атомами углерода с вакансиями. Получены значения магнитных моментов и определена область локализации спиновой плотности в суперъячейке с 96 атомами углерода, включающей как ближнерасположенные, так и дальнерасположенные вакансии. Изучено влияние расстояния между вакансиями на величину магнитного момента в суперъячейке графена. Исследованы зависимости магнитного момента и расстояния между вакансиями в суперъячейке графена с 96 атомами от концентрации вакансий. С помощью расчетов энергии образования вакансий углерода в суперъячейке графена изучены ее зависимости от деформации ячейки графена. Ключевые слова: ab initio-расчет, теория функционала плотности, суперъячейки графена, вакансии, магнитный момент, спиновая плотность, расположение вакансий, энергия образования и концентрация вакансий, деформация ячейки графена.
An Improved Content Based Image Retrieval Technique by Exploiting Bi-layer Concept
Authors: Salih Shalaw Faraj , Abdulla Alan Anwer
Published: February 2021

Applications for retrieving similar images from a large collection of images have increased significantly in various fields with the rapid advancement of digital communication technologies and exponential evolution in the usage of the Internet. Content-based image retrieval (CBIR) is a technique to find similar images on the basis of extracting the visual features such as color, texture, and/or shape from the images themselves. During the retrieval process, features and descriptors of the query image are compared to those of the images in the database to rank each indexed image accordingly to its distance to the query image. This paper has developed a new CBIR technique which entails two layers, called bi-layers. In the first layer, all images in the database are compared to the query image based on the bag of features (BoF) technique, and hence, the M most similar images to the query image are retrieved. In the second layer, the M images obtained from the first layer are compared to the query image based on the color, texture, and shape features to retrieve the N number of the most similar images to the query image. The proposed technique has been evaluated using a well-known dataset of images called Corel-1K. The obtained results revealed the impact of exploring the idea of bi-layers in improving the precision rate in comparison to the current state-of-the-art techniques in which achieved precision rate of 82.27% and 76.13% for top-10 and top-20, respectively.
Identifying Myocardial Infarction Using Hierarchical Template Matching–Based Myocardial Strain: Algorithm Development and Usability Study
Authors: Bhalodiya Jayendra Maganbhai , Palit Arnab , Giblin Gerard , Tiwari Manoj Kumar , Prasad Sanjay K , Bhudia Sunil K , Arvanitis Theodoros N , Williams Mark A
Published: February 2021

Background

Myocardial infarction (MI; location and extent of infarction) can be determined by late enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, which requires the injection of a potentially harmful gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA). Alternatively, emerging research in the area of myocardial strain has shown potential to identify MI using strain values.

Objective

This study aims to identify the location of MI by developing an applied algorithmic method of circumferential strain (CS) values, which are derived through a novel hierarchical template matching (HTM) method.

Methods

HTM-based CS H-spread from end-diastole to end-systole was used to develop an applied method. Grid-tagging magnetic resonance imaging was used to calculate strain values in the left ventricular (LV) myocardium, followed by the 16-segment American Heart Association model. The data set was used with k-fold cross-validation to estimate the percentage reduction of H-spread among infarcted and noninfarcted LV segments. A total of 43 participants (38 MI and 5 healthy) who underwent CMR imaging were retrospectively selected. Infarcted segments detected by using this method were validated by comparison with late enhancement CMR, and the diagnostic performance of the applied algorithmic method was evaluated with a receiver operating characteristic curve test.

Results

The H-spread of the CS was reduced in infarcted segments compared with noninfarcted segments of the LV. The reductions were 30% in basal segments, 30% in midventricular segments, and 20% in apical LV segments. The diagnostic accuracy of detection, using the reported method, was represented by area under the curve values, which were 0.85, 0.82, and 0.87 for basal, midventricular, and apical slices, respectively, demonstrating good agreement with the late-gadolinium enhancement–based detections.

Conclusions

The proposed applied algorithmic method has the potential to accurately identify the location of infarcted LV segments without the administration of late-gadolinium enhancement. Such an approach adds the potential to safely identify MI, potentially reduce patient scanning time, and extend the utility of CMR in patients who are contraindicated for the use of GBCA.
The Impact of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery on Total Joint Arthroplasty: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Rele Siddharth , Shadbolt Cade , Schilling Chris , Taylor Nicholas F , Dowsey Michelle M , Choong Peter F M
Published: February 2021

Background

The number of total joint arthroplasties (TJAs) being performed is increasing worldwide. To match this increasing demand, there has been focus on hastening patients’ recovery of function. This effort has culminated in the formulation of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) strategies. However, with evolving ERAS programs and new recommendations, a review of current evidence is required to provide clinicians with up-to-date information about its effect on outcomes for TJA.

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the utility of ERAS programs on patient, health service, and economic outcomes for primary, elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

A systematic search will be conducted in Medline (Ovid), EMCARE (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), Web of Science, CINAHL, National Health Service Economic Evaluations Database, and the Cochrane Library. Analytical, observational, and experimental designs will be included in this systematic review. Only studies including patients undergoing primary TKA and THA comparing ERAS programs with conventional surgery and postoperative care will be included. Data related to patient outcomes, health service outcomes, safety, and economic evaluation will be extracted.

Results

The search terms and primary database searches have been finalized. Findings will be reported in narrative and tabular form. Where appropriate, random effects meta-analyses will be conducted for each outcome, and heterogeneity quantified with Cochran Q test and I2 statistic. Measures of effect or mean differences will be reported with 95% confidence intervals. The results of this systematic review will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal.

Conclusions

This protocol will guide a systematic review assessing outcomes associated with ERAS surgery in primary THA and TKA.

Trial Registration

Open Science Framework osf.io/y4bhs; https://osf.io/y4bhs

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/25581
Health Care Students’ Knowledge of and Attitudes, Beliefs, and Practices Toward the French COVID-19 App: Cross-sectional Questionnaire Study
Authors: Montagni Ilaria , Roussel Nicolas , Thiébaut Rodolphe , Tzourio Christophe
Published: February 2021

Background

Many countries worldwide have developed mobile phone apps capable of supporting instantaneous contact tracing to control the COVID-19 pandemic. In France, a few people have downloaded and are using the StopCovid contact tracing app. Students in the health domain are of particular concern in terms of app uptake. Exploring their use and opinions about the app can inform improvements and diffusion of StopCovid among young people.

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate health care students’ knowledge of and attitudes, beliefs, and practices (KABP) toward the StopCovid app.

Methods

A field survey was conducted among 318 students at the health sciences campus of the University of Bordeaux, France, between September 25 and October 16, 2020. A quota sampling method was used, and descriptive statistics and univariate analyses were performed.

Results

Of the 318 respondents, 77.3% (n=246) had heard about the app, but only 11.3% (n=36) had downloaded it, and 4.7% (n=15) were still using it at the time of the survey. Among the 210 participants who had heard about the app but did not download it, the main reasons for not using the app were a belief that it was not effective given its limited diffusion (n=37, 17.6%), a lack of interest (n=37, 17.6%), and distrust in the data security and fear of being geolocated (n=33, 15.7%). Among the 72 students who had not heard of the app and were given a brief description of its functioning and confidentiality policy, 52.7% (n=38) said they would use it. Participants reported that the main solution for increasing the use of the app would be better communication about it (227/318, 71.4%).

Conclusions

Even among health students, the contact tracing app was poorly used. The findings suggest that improved communication about its advantages and simplicity of use as well as clarifying false beliefs about it could help improve uptake.
Accuracy of an Artificial Intelligence System for Cancer Clinical Trial Eligibility Screening: Retrospective Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Haddad Tufia , Helgeson Jane M , Pomerleau Katharine E , Preininger Anita M , Roebuck M Christopher , Dankwa-Mullan Irene , Jackson Gretchen Purcell , Goetz Matthew P
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Screening patients for eligibility for clinical trials is labor intensive. It requires abstraction of data elements from multiple components of the longitudinal health record and matching them to inclusion and exclusion criteria for each trial. Artificial intelligence (AI) systems have been developed to improve the efficiency and accuracy of this process.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the ability of an AI clinical decision support system (CDSS) to identify eligible patients for a set of clinical trials.

METHODS

This study included the deidentified data from a cohort of patients with breast cancer seen at the medical oncology clinic of an academic medical center between May and July 2017 and assessed patient eligibility for 4 breast cancer clinical trials. CDSS eligibility screening performance was validated against manual screening. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for eligibility determinations were calculated. Disagreements between manual screeners and the CDSS were examined to identify sources of discrepancies. Interrater reliability between manual reviewers was analyzed using Cohen (pairwise) and Fleiss (three-way) κ, and the significance of differences was determined by Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

RESULTS

In total, 318 patients with breast cancer were included. Interrater reliability for manual screening ranged from 0.60-0.77, indicating substantial agreement. The overall accuracy of breast cancer trial eligibility determinations by the CDSS was 87.6%. CDSS sensitivity was 81.1% and specificity was 89%.

CONCLUSIONS

The AI CDSS in this study demonstrated accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of greater than 80% in determining the eligibility of patients for breast cancer clinical trials. CDSSs can accurately exclude ineligible patients for clinical trials and offer the potential to increase screening efficiency and accuracy. Additional research is needed to explore whether increased efficiency in screening and trial matching translates to improvements in trial enrollment, accruals, feasibility assessments, and cost.
Knowledge and Expectations of Hearing Aid Apps Among Smartphone Users and Hearing Professionals: Cross-sectional Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Han Jae Sang , Park Yong-Ho , Song Jae-Jun , Moon Il Joon , Lee Woojoo , Kim Yoonjoong , Cho Young Sang , Seo Jae-Hyun , Park Moo Kyun
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Despite the increasing prevalence of hearing loss, the cost and psychological barriers to the use of hearing aids may prevent their use in individuals with hearing loss. Patients with hearing loss can benefit from smartphone-based hearing aid apps (SHAAs), which are smartphone apps that use a mobile device as a sound amplifier.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine how ear, nose, and throat outpatients perceive SHAAs, analyze the factors that affect their perceptions, and estimate the costs of an annual subscription to an app through a self-administered questionnaire survey of smartphone users and hearing specialists.

METHODS

This study used a cross-sectional, multicenter survey of both ear, nose, and throat outpatients and hearing specialists. The questionnaire was designed to collect personal information about the respondents and their responses to 18 questions concerning SHAAs in five domains: knowledge, needs, cost, expectations, and information. Perception questions were rated on a scale of 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). Questions about the expected cost of SHAAs were included in the questionnaire distributed to hearing experts.

RESULTS

Among the 219 smartphone users and 42 hearing specialists, only 8 (3.7%) respondents recognized SHAAs, whereas 18% (47/261) of respondents reported considering the use of an assistive device to improve their hearing capacity. The average perception score was 2.81 (SD 1.22). Among the factors that shaped perceptions of SHAAs, the needs category received the lowest scores (2.02, SD 1.42), whereas the cost category received the highest scores (3.29, SD 1.14). Age was correlated with the information domain (P<.001), and an increased level of hearing impairment resulted in significantly higher points in the needs category (P<.001). Patients expected the cost of an annual app subscription to an SHAA to be approximately US $86, and the predicted cost was associated with economic status (P=.02) and was higher than the prices expected by hearing specialists (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Outpatients expected SHAAs to cost more than hearing specialists. However, the perception of the SHAA was relatively low. In this regard, enhanced awareness is required to popularize SHAAs.
Gait characteristics in children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy during the last 2 years of free ambulation (Preprint)
Authors: Ropars Juliette , Houx Laetitia , Brochard Sylvain , Rousseau François , Vuillerot Carole , Pereon Yann , Cuisset Jean-Marie , Fontaine Stephanie , Durigneux Julien , Tiffreau Vincent , Delval Arnaud , Gross Raphael , Leboeuf Fabien , Delporte Ludovic , Pons Christelle , Lempereur Mathieu
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the most common neuromuscular disease in children, is a severe, progressive disease that affects skeletal muscle. Abnormal gait patterns in children with DMD result from compensatory adaptations of their locomotor system to maintain free ambulation in response to the slow, progressive muscle weakness, contractures and osteoarticular changes caused by the disease. Identification of gait abnormalities can be challenging because current understanding of how gait patterns changes progressively in children with DMD is limited. 3D gait analysis could thus increase understanding about the effects of the disease on gait, guide treatments and help to predict key milestones, such as ambulation loss. This latter event is important because it is an endpoint for clinical trials and studies of DMD disease progression.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study was to analyze the gait characteristics of children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) during their last 2 years of free ambulation. The secondary aim was to explore the capacity of gait variables to predict the time of loss of ambulation.

METHODS

The gait of eighteen children with DMD and fourteen age-matched control children was recorded using a 3D optoelectronic system. Statistical parametric mapping was used to compare kinematic and kinetic variables between groups. Multivariate regression was used to identify predictors of the time of ambulation loss among spatiotemporal, kinematic and kinetic variables.

RESULTS

Compared with the controls, anterior pelvic tilt was increased during the whole gait cycle, hip flexion was increased during the second part of stance phase and of the entire swing, knee flexion was increased during swing, dorsiflexion was reduced during stance, and plantar flexion occurred in swing in the DMD group. Maximal ground reaction force, ankle dorsiflexion moment at initial contact, knee power absorption and generation during loading response, and maximal power generation of the hip at the end of stance were all reduced. A combination of gait variables, mostly kinetic, predicted the duration before ambulation loss to be less than three months.

CONCLUSIONS

The gait of children with DMD who are close to losing ambulation is characterized by specific deviations. The time of ambulation loss was accurately predicted by 3D gait variables, particularly kinetic. Combined with data from the clinical examination, 3D gait analysis provides valuable information to guide physical therapy, including targeted muscle strengthening and stretching, to help patients maintain free ambulation as long as possible.
Effectiveness of mobile short messaging services to improve parent’s knowledge, attitude and practice on drowning prevention in Bangladesh (Preprint)
Authors: KC Mani Prof Dr Kulanthayan , Hossain Dr Md Mosharaf
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Drowning is the leading cause of death in children aged one year and over in Bangladesh. Drowning rates in Bangladesh are 10 to 20 times the rates of child drowning in developed countries.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this to test the effectiveness of a mobile SMS intervention to improve the knowledge, attitude, and practices of parents of children aged under five concerning the prevention of drowning.

METHODS

Study Design: a cluster randomized community trial with 788 parents of children aged under five in a rural community of Bangladesh.
Methods: Intervention: Mobile SMS intervention for parents of children under five years concerning the prevention of drowning. Outcome: differences in knowledge, attitude and practices of parents concerning the prevention of drowning between the baseline and immediate follow-up after the intervention, and after three months.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in knowledge in the intervention group compared to the control group at different time points [baseline: F(1, 787) = 0.33, ρ-value = 0.56; immediately after intervention: F(1, 772) = 2989.25, ρ-value = 0.001; 3-months after intervention F(1, 761) = 4591.33, ρ-value = 0.001]. Similarly, there was an improvement in the positive attitude and good practices of parents on prevention of drowning. There were significant main effect for group [F(1, 379) = 5084.81, ρ-value = 0.001], time [F(1, 379) = 5786.11, ρ-value = 0.001], and group and time interaction [F(1, 331) = 2425.33, ρ-value = 0.001] in terms of the drowning prevention knowledge of parents. Similarly, the main effects for group, time, and group and time interaction for drowning prevention attitude and drowning prevention practices of parents were also significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The mobile based SMS intervention developed was effective in improving the knowledge, attitude, and practices of parents of children aged under five concerning drowning prevention in a rural community of Bangladesh.

CLINICALTRIAL

ISRCTN13774693
Percepción discente y prácticas de enseñanza en una institución brasileña de educación superior
Authors: Villas-Boas-Mello José-André , Rodrigues-de-Sousa Flaviane
Published: February 2021

Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar las percepciones discentes acerca de las prácticas académicas y los atributos pedagógicos de enseñanza que más aportan para el proceso de preparación académica para la participación en un evaluative learning event. El estudio exploratorio se implementó en una institución ubicada en el municipio de Nova Iguaçu, Río de Janeiro, siendo entrevistados los egresados que participaron del “Exame Nacional de Desempenho de Estudantes” (ENADE). Los cuestionarios fueron elaborados teniendo como base el modelo Kano, en que los respondedores tenían cinco alternativas para cada atributo. El estudio posibilitó entender la percepción de los alumnos acerca de cómo ciertas prácticas de enseñanza y evaluación pudieron crear motivación a ellos en querer aprender.
Condiciones para la docencia inclusiva: análisis desde las barreras y los facilitadores
Authors: Pérez-Castro Judith
Published: February 2021

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar las barreras y facilitadores identificados por una muestra de estudiantes con discapacidad, de dos universidades públicas mexicanas, en tres componentes de la docencia: las formas de presentación, las formas de participación y compromiso, y las actitudes hacia la inclusión. La investigación consistió en un estudio de caso y la técnica de indagación fue la entrevista a profundidad. Los resultados nos muestran que la formación docente en inclusión y discapacidad es importante, pero también que se requiere brindar herramientas que permitan a los profesores hacer ajustes razonables, con base en las necesidades de los estudiantes.
Formación de posgrado en Extensión Agraria: experiencias en Holguín, Cuba
Authors: Rodríguez-González Niurlys , Almaguer-Pérez Nelvis-Alipio , García-Arias José-Manuel
Published: February 2021

El extensionista, como facilitador de procesos agrarios en Cuba, desempeña diversos roles que implican conocimientos y habilidades. Sin embargo, la formación posgraduada en Extensión Agraria constituyó una limitante potencial hasta la década de 1990. Se realizó una investigación no experimental con profesionales vinculados a actividades extensionistas. El objetivo del artículo es mostrar los avances en la formación posgraduada en extensión agraria en Holguín, Cuba. Los resultados muestran una composición heterogénea de perfiles profesionales de los graduados, se constató alta aplicabilidad de los conocimientos adquiridos en el desempeño profesional y la apropiación del enfoque sistémico.
Celos y violencia en parejas de estudiantes de la Universidad de Cuenca, Ecuador
Authors: Guillén Verdesoto Ximena , Ochoa Balarezo Juana , Delucchi Gustavo , León Mayer Elizabeth , Folino Jorge
Published: February 2021

En esta investigación se dimensiona la violencia en parejas de estudiantes universitarios y se explora su relación con los celos y otros correlatos. Con un diseño de corte transversal se encuestaron 186 estudiantes de Universidad de Cuenca. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron el Conflict in Adolescents Dating Relationships Inventory, la Multidimensional Jealousy Scale e items ad hoc sobre fidelidad, consumo de sustancias y estrés durante la relación de pareja. Los puntajes de violencia fueron bajos en general, pero preocupantes en el 5.4% de los encuestados. El 60.2% informó haber cometido por lo menos un acto violento físico durante la relación de pareja index. Los subtipos de violencia medidos tuvieron distribución similar entre varones y mujeres. La correlación entre violencia total cometida y sufrida fue .77 (p< .001). Se verificó asociación significativa entre la pertenencia al grupo de mayor violencia y los celos comportamentales y el estrés padecido durante la pareja.
DIREITO HEBRAICO E HISTÓRIA DO DIREITO NO BRASIL: UM CONTRASTE COM AS PESQUISAS MAIS RECENTES SOBRE O ANTIGO ISRAEL
Authors: Pacheco Thiago da Silva
Published: February 2021

Objetivamos apresentar a discrepância de conclusões acerca da autoria, datação e possíveis influências do Direito Hebraico, existente entre os autores do campo da História do Direito e os historiadores e arqueólogos que se dedicaram ao estudo do Antigo Israel. A partir de uma revisão bibliográfica de obras nacionais que abordam o Direito Hebraico, buscamos demonstrar que, nestes trabalhos, argumenta-se com naturalidade a favor da autoria mosaica e de uma teofania durante o contexto do Êxodo, com desprezível influência estrangeira, sendo tal conclusão bem distinta ao que a Arqueologia e a História têm argumentado nas últimas décadas. Esta discrepância acaba por alinhar as afirmações dos historiadores do Direito às tradições judaico-cristãs, distanciando-as da História e da Arqueologia, mantendo incompreendidas as relações humanas envolvidas no processo de formação do Direito daquele povo.
Diseño y control digital de un convertidor elevador entrelazado para sistemas de carga/descarga de baterías
Authors: Escudero Quintero Cristian , Acevedo Pérez Santiago , Villegas Ceballos Juan Pablo , Daniel Daniel , Serna Garcés Sergio
Published: February 2021

Este trabajo presenta la metodología de diseño de un control digital para reducir el rizado en la corriente que se inyecta a la batería por medio de los convertidores que procesan la energía de carga y descarga, el cual es uno de los parámetros indicados en la literatura que disminuyen el tiempo de vida de las baterías. Este trabajo tiene como alcance mostrar el procedimiento de diseño e implementación de la estrategia propuesta sobre un convertidor entrelazado. La metodología implementada se presenta por medio de cuatro etapas (i) modelado del sistema batería-convertidor-carga, (ii) diseño de control digital basado en el modelo, (iii) diseño de la plataforma práctica donde se presenta la etapa de instrumentación e implementación utilizando un dispositivo embebido y (iv) la validación práctica del funcionamiento de la estrategia presentada y la disminución del rizado inyectado en la batería. Por medio de la metodología presentada se logra evidenciar el correcto desempeño del control digital cumpliendo los parámetros de diseño para diferentes modos de operación de carga de la batería y reduciendo el rizado de corriente en la batería entre un 50 % a 65 %. Esta reducción protege la vida útil de la batería y de las fuentes o cargas conectadas al sistema. Adicionalmente, permite que los algoritmos de estimación de estado de carga y estado de salud incrementen su precisión, lo que conlleva a una mejora en los protocolos de mantenimiento y planificación de reemplazo de los elementos.
Redes neuronales convolucionales para la clasificación de componentes independientes de rs-fMRI
Authors: Mera-Jiménez Leonel , Ochoa-Gómez John F.
Published: February 2021

La resonancia magnética funcional en estado de reposo (rs-fMRI) es una de las técnicas más relevantes en exploración cerebral. No obstante, la misma es susceptible a muchos factores externos que pueden ocluir la señal de interés. En este orden de ideas, las imágenes rs-fMRI han sido estudiadas desde diferentes enfoques, existiendo un especial interés en las técnicas de eliminación de artefactos a través del Análisis de Componentes Independientes (ICA por sus siglas en inglés). El enfoque es una herramienta poderosa para la separación ciega de fuentes donde es posible eliminar los elementos asociados a ruido. Sin embargo, dicha eliminación está sujeta a la identificación o clasificación de las componentes entregadas por ICA. En ese sentido, esta investigación se centró en encontrar una estrategia alternativa para la clasificación de las componentes independientes. El problema se abordó en dos etapas. En la primera de ellas, se redujeron las componentes (volúmenes 3D) a imágenes mediante el Análisis de Componentes Principales (PCA por sus siglas en inglés) y con la obtención de los planos medios. Los métodos lograron una reducción de hasta dos órdenes de magnitud en peso de los datos y, además, demostraron conservar las características espaciales de las componentes independientes. En la segunda etapa, se usaron las reducciones para entrenar seis modelos de redes neuronales convolucionales. Las redes analizadas alcanzaron precisiones alrededor de 98 % en la clasificación e incluso se encontró una red con una precisión del 98.82 %, lo cual refleja la alta capacidad de discriminación de las redes neuronales convolucionales.
Evaluación de daños en pavimento flexible usando fotogrametría terrestre y redes neuronales
Authors: Tello-Cifuentes Lizette , Aguirre-Sánchez Marcela , Díaz-Paz Jean P. , Hernández Francisco
Published: February 2021

La evaluación del deterioro de las vías en Colombia se realiza por medio de inventarios manuales e inspecciones visuales. Los métodos de evaluación del estado de las vías adoptados por el INVIAS (Instituto Nacional de Vías) son VIZIR (Visión Inspection de Zones et Itinéraires Á Risque) y PCI (Paviment Condition Index). Estos determinan la gravedad de daño en pavimento flexible y rígido; sin embargo, pueden ser tediosos, subjetivos y requieren de la experiencia de un evaluador, lo que evidencia la necesidad de desarrollar metodologías de evaluación del estado de las vías. Este documento presenta una metodología para la evaluación de los deterioros presentes en pavimento flexible usando técnicas de fotogrametría terrestre y redes neuronales que está compuesta por seis etapas: i. Captura de las imágenes, ii. Preprocesamiento de las imágenes, iii. Segmentación mediante técnicas de detección de bordes, iv. Extracción de las características, v. Clasificación utilizando redes neuronales, y vi. Evaluación del área de afectación del deterioro. La metodología se evaluó con imágenes reales de pavimento con tres tipos de deterioro: grieta longitudinal, piel de cocodrilo y bache. Como clasificador se utilizó una red neuronal multicapa con configuración (12 12 3), entrenada utilizando el algoritmo Levenberg Marquardt de retropropagación. Se obtuvo una exactitud del 96 % en el clasificador, una sensibilidad de 93.33 % y una índice kappa de 0.936. Esta metodología es la base para la creación de un sistema automatizado de evaluación del deterioro presente en las vías, el cual puede contribuir en la reducción en tiempo y costo en los planes de gestión de mantenimiento de la infraestructura vial.