bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Perspective on Client-Psychologist Relationships in Videoconferencing Psychotherapy: Literature Review
Authors: Cataldo Francesco , Chang Shanton , Mendoza Antonette , Buchanan George
Published: November 2020

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have been encouraged to maintain social distance. Technology helps people schedule meetings as remote videoconferencing sessions rather than face-to-face interactions. Psychologists are in high demand because of an increase in stress as a result of COVID-19, and videoconferencing provides an opportunity for mental health clinicians to treat current and new referrals. However, shifting treatment from face-to-face to videoconferencing is not simple: both psychologists and clients miss in-person information cues, including body language.

Objective

This review proposes a new theoretical framework to guide the design of future studies examining the impact of a computer as a mediator of psychologist-client relationships and the influence of videoconferencing on the relationship process.

Methods

We conducted a literature review including studies focused on communication and key concepts of the therapeutic relationship and therapeutic alliance.

Results

Studies have reported that clients are generally satisfied with videoconference therapy in terms of the relationship with their therapists and the establishment of the therapeutic alliance. Conversely, studies indicate that psychologists continue to highlight difficulties in establishing the same quality of therapeutic relationship and therapeutic alliance. The contrasting experiences might underlie the differences in the type of emotional and cognitive work required by both actors in any therapy session; furthermore, the computer seems to take part in their interaction not only as a vehicle to transmit messages but also as an active part of the communication. A new model of interaction and relationship is proposed, taking into account the presence of the computer, along with further hypotheses.

Conclusions

It is important to consider the computer as having an active role in the client-psychologist relationship; thus, it is a third party to the communication that either assists or interferes with the interaction between psychologists and clients.
Mobile App-Based Intervention for Pregnant Women With Stress Urinary Incontinence: Protocol for a Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation Trial
Authors: Li Tiantian , Chen Xiaomin , Wang Jia , Chen Ling , Cai Wenzhi
Published: November 2020

Background

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common source of distress among women during and after pregnancy. It has a negative effect on quality of life but with poor care-seeking. Mobile health (mHealth) may be a promising solution with potential advantages. However, there is uncertainty whether a mobile app is effective for SUI symptom improvement during and after pregnancy. The implementation is also unclear. We developed an app named UIW (Urinary Incontinence for Women) aimed at improving perinatal incontinence.

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the UIW app-based intervention in improving SUI symptoms among pregnant women and explore the facilitators and barriers to using the UIW app to help refine and optimize the intervention.

Methods

This study is a hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial with a randomized controlled trial alongside a mixed-methods process evaluation according to the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. Pregnant women with SUI (n=336) will be recruited from a university-affiliated hospital in China. They will be randomly allocated (1:1) to either the intervention group that receive usual care plus UIW app or control group that receive usual care alone. The intervention period will last 2 months. The 5 dimensions of the RE-AIM framework will be evaluated at recruitment (-T1), baseline (T0), immediately after intervention (T1), 42 days after delivery (T2), 3 months after delivery (T3), and 6 months after delivery (T4) through project documents, online questionnaires and a pelvic floor muscle training diary, surface electromyography, log data in the background management system, and qualitative interviews. Data analysis will follow the intention-to-treat principle. Descriptive statistics, t tests, chi-square tests, and a linear mixed model will be used to analyze the quantitative data. Deductive and inductive content analysis will be used to analyze the qualitative data.

Results

The effectiveness-implementation trial started in June 2020, trial recruitment was completed in October 2020, and the intervention will last for a 2-month period. Completion of the 6-month follow-up will be in July 2021, and we anticipate that the results of this study will be published in December 2021.

Conclusions

This study will evaluate both effectiveness and implementation of the UIW app-based intervention among pregnant women. The hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial design according to the RE-AIM framework with a mixed-methods approach will give valuable insights into the effects as well as facilitators and barriers to the implementation that will influence the effects of the UIW app-based intervention.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1800016171; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=27455

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/22771
Integrated Digital Patient Education at the Bedside for Patients with Chronic Conditions: Observational Study
Authors: Schooley Benjamin , Singh Akanksha , Hikmet Neşet , Brookshire Robert , Patel Nitin
Published: November 2020

Background

Patient education delivered by a health care provider increases patients’ understanding and adherence to medical instructions, which helps to improve patient health. Multiple challenges exist to delivering effective patient education to patients with multiple chronic conditions, including giving the necessary time, range, and types of learning materials, and assessing the level of understanding. To help overcome these challenges, it is important to study new electronic means to assist in patient education, such as the use of mobile devices, interactive media, 3-dimensional images, and multimedia educational content at the bedside.

Objective

The goal of this study was to address the need for blended learning strategies combining technical and workflow integration of digital patient education systems for patients with chronic conditions within and across the regular process of care. Studies are needed to evaluate the utility and benefits of these technologies for providers and patients alike.

Methods

A mixed-methods approach was employed including survey administration to 178 patients after they received digital patient education in person with a health care provider, and qualitative interviews with 16 nurse educators who used the mobile digital health education technology to deliver instruction to patients. Patient survey data were analyzed using chi-square statistical tests. Qualitative interviews were analyzed for user acceptance and perceived value themes.

Results

Patients who were counseled using a blended digital health education approach reported improved understanding of educational content (P=.034) and chronic health conditions (P<.001), were more motivated to care for themselves at home (P<.001), were more likely to say that they felt capable of making health care decisions with their doctors (P<.001) and on their own (P=.001), and were more likely to report their intention to follow their doctor’s instructions (P<.001) than were patients whose education was not computer-based. Nurse educators felt that the digital education system and content enhanced their education efforts and could be easily integrated into the outpatient clinical workflow.

Conclusions

Patient education for individuals with chronic conditions may be more effective than traditional formats when provided in blended digital formats supervised by a health care provider.
Culture-Specific Observations in a Saudi Arabian Digital Home Health Care Program: Focus Group Discussions With Patients and Their Caregivers (Preprint)
Authors: Alodhayani Abdulaziz A , Hassounah Marwah Mazen , Qadri Fatima R , Abouammoh Noura A , Ahmed Zakiuddin , Aldahmash Abdullah M
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

There is growing evidence of the need to consider cultural factors in the design and implementation of digital health interventions. However, there is still inadequate knowledge pertaining to the aspects of the Saudi Arabian culture that need to be considered in the design and implementation of digital health programs, especially in the context of home health care services for patients who are chronically and terminally ill.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the specific cultural factors related to patients and their caregivers from the perspective of physicians, nurses, and trainers that have influenced the pilot implementation of Remotely Accessible Healthcare At Home, a connected health program in the Home Health Care department at King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

A qualitative study design was adopted to conduct a focus group discussion in July 2019 using a semistructured interview guide with 3 female and 4 male participants working as nurses, family physicians, and information technologists. Qualitative data obtained were analyzed using a thematic framework analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 2 categories emerged from the focus group discussion that influenced the experiences of digital health program intervention: first, culture-related factors including language and communication, cultural views on using cameras during consultation, nonadherence to web-based consultations, and family role and commitment and second, caregiver characteristics in telemedicine that includes their skills and education and electronic literacy. Participants of this study revealed that indirect contact with patients and their family members may work as a barrier to proper communication through the Remotely Accessible Healthcare At Home program.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend exploring the use of interpreters in digital health, creating awareness among the local population regarding privacy in digital health, and actively involving direct family members with the health care providers.
Remote evaluation of upper extremity motor function following stroke: The Arm Capacity and Movement Test (ArmCAM) (Preprint)
Authors: Yang Chieh-Ling , Simposon Lisa A. , Eng Janice
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Developing a simple measure that can be administered remotely via videoconferencing is needed for telerehabilitation for rural and remote population, or during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a valid and reliable measure [the Arm Capacity and Movement Test (ArmCAM)] administered remotely via videoconferencing to evaluate upper extremity motor function after stroke.

METHODS

A sample of individuals with stroke (N=31) was used to assess the reliability and validity of the ArmCAM (range: 0-30). Test-retest and inter-rater reliability were assessed through the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC). Validity was examined by the Pearson and Spearman rank correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

The ArmCAM consists of 10 items and takes 15 minutes to administer without any special equipment except for a computer and internet access. The ICC for test-retest reliability and inter-rater reliability were 0.997 and 0.993, respectively. The SEM and MDC95 were 0.74 and 2.05 points, respectively. With respect to validity, correlations between the ArmCAM and the Rating of Everyday Arm-use in the Community and Home Scale, Stroke Impact Scale-Hand, Fugl-Meyer Assessment for upper extremity, and Action Research Arm Test were good to excellent (correlation coefficients: 0.811-0.944).

CONCLUSIONS

he ArmCAM has good reliability and validity. It is an easy-to-use assessment that is designed to be administered remotely via video conferencing.

CLINICALTRIAL

NA (This is not a clinical trial)
Patients with cardiovascular disease and depression and their experiences of how a tailored internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy influences their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. (Preprint)
Authors: Westas Mats , Johansson Peter , Andersson Gerhard , Lundgren Johan , Mourad Ghassan , Neher Margit
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Depression in cardiovascular disease (CVD) is associated with poor quality of life and a worse prognosis. There is also a treatment gap for depression in people living with CVD. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) has been suggested as a solution. In a recent study we found that an iCBT treatment tailored for patients with CVD led to reduced levels of depression. However, we still have little knowledge about how patients with CVD and depression experience the changes they go through during iCBT for depressive symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this qualitative interview study was to explore how an iCBT program tailored for patients with CVD and depressive symptoms influenced their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

METHODS

Design
A qualitative interview study. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.
Settings
20 patients with CVD from southeast Sweden who had participated in a nine-week iCBT program for depression were included.

RESULTS

Three main themes emerged: (1) Taking control of the disease, (2) Not just a walk in the park, and (3) Feeling a personal engagement with the iCBT program. The contents of the first theme included comments that the tailored content of the program gave the patients a feeling of being active in the treatment process, and helped them achieve changes in thoughts and behaviors necessary to take control of their cardiovascular disease. In contrast, the second theme showed that patients also experienced the program as demanding and emotionally challenging. However, it was viewed as helpful to challenge negative thinking about living with CVD and to change depressive thoughts. In the third theme patients reported that the structure inherent in the program, in the form of organizing their own health and the scheduled feedback from the therapist, was appreciated and conveyed a feeling of being seen as an individual. The patients described how the feeling of being acknowledged as a person made it easier to continuously work with the changes necessary to improve their health.

CONCLUSIONS

An iCBT program tailored for patients with CVD and depression was found to influence patients’ emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. This was achieved by learning to take control of their CVD and by feeling acknowledged as a person, including having support. The patients considered working with the iCBT program demanding and emotionally challenging, but necessary to achieve change in emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

CLINICALTRIAL

The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02778074
Real-World Experience of mHealth Implementation in Clinical Practice (the Box): Design and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Biersteker Tom , Hilt Alexander , van der Velde Enno , Schalij Martin Jan , Treskes Roderick Willem
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Mobile health (mHealth) is an emerging field of scientific interest worldwide. Potential benefits include increased patient engagement, improved clinical outcomes, and reduced health care costs. However, mHealth is often studied in projects or trials, and structural implantation in clinical practice is less common.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper is to outline the design of the Box and its implementation and use in an outpatient clinic setting. The impact on logistical outcomes and patient and provider satisfaction is discussed.

METHODS

In 2016, an mHealth care track including smartphone-compatible devices, named the Box, was implemented in the cardiology department of a tertiary medical center in the Netherlands. Patients with myocardial infarction, rhythm disorders, cardiac surgery, heart failure, and congenital heart disease received devices to measure daily weight, blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation. In addition, professional and patient user comments on the experience with the care track were obtained via structured interviews.

RESULTS

From 2016 to April 2020, a total of 1140 patients were connected to the mHealth care track. On average, a Box cost €350 (US $375), not including extra staff costs. The median patient age was 60.8 (IQR 52.9-69.3) years, and 73.59% (839/1140) were male. A median of 260 (IQR 105-641) measurements was taken on a median of 189 (IQR 98-372) days. Patients praised the ease of use of the devices and felt more involved with their illness and care. Professionals reported more productive outpatient consultations as well as improved insight into health parameters such as blood pressure and weight. A feedback loop from the hospital to patient to focus on measurements was commented as an important improvement by both patients and professionals.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the design and implementation of an mHealth care track for outpatient follow-up of patients with various cardiovascular diseases is described. Data from these 4 years indicate that mHealth is feasible to incorporate in outpatient management and is generally well-accepted by patients and providers. Limitations include the need for manual measurement data checks and the risk of data overload. Moreover, the tertiary care setting in which the Box was introduced may limit the external validity of logistical and financial end points to other medical centers. More evidence is needed to show the effects of mHealth on clinical outcomes and on cost-effectiveness.
Cretaceous cultch: substrate availability for oyster Exogyra in the Maastrichtian of the eastern Mississippi Embayment
Authors: Kunath Marvin , Phillips George , Clary Renee M.
Published: November 2020

The gryphaeid oyster Exogyra Say, 1820, is ubiquitous in Upper Cretaceous sediments in the southeastern United States. Like many oysters (Order Ostreida), Exogyra attached its shell to hard surfaces on the seafloor by means of cementation. Throughout its lifetime, Exogyra may preserve through bioimmuration the characteristics and even skeletal remains of substrate organisms, including mollusk shells, echinoids, and bryozoans. Exogyra costata of all sizes were collected from three different localities within upper Maastrichtian deposits in northeast Mississippi and their bioimmurations analyzed. Substrates were identified and classified to compare the three localities’ substrate taxa in order to probe differences in benthic population structure. The results of this pilot study provide an overview of available surfaces on the Late Cretaceous seafloor on the eastern side of the Mississippi Embayment. The data suggest that taxonomic diversity among utilized substrates may increase from north to south, which corresponds to increasing depth from shallow marine to deeper sediments on the shelf.
Los parámetros magnéticos como indicadores de contaminación por elementos mayores y plomo en suelos urbanos del Valle de Aburrá, Colombia
Authors: Sánchez-Duque Alexander , Bautista Francisco , Cejudo Rubén , Goguitchaichvili Avto , Cervantes-Solano Miguel
Published: November 2020

Presentamos un estudio de magnetismo ambiental con el objetivo de determinar la relación entre metales pesados y los parámetros magnéticos en suelos urbano del Área Metropolitana de Valle de Aburrá (AMVA), Colombia, con la finalidad de establecer indicadores magnéticos que permitan estimar la concentración de minerales magnéticos, elementos mayores, concentración de Pb y sus áreas de mayor acumulación en la zona urbana del Área Metropolitana del Valle de Aburrá AMVA (Colombia). El estudio se realizó a partir de 83 muestras de suelo urbano, las cuales fueron sujetas a un análisis magnético, se determinó la concentración de los elementos mayores (Al2O3, Fe2O3 y MnO) y concentración de Pb por medio de fluorescencia de Rayos X de energía dispersa. Se encontró una variación en la distribución del material magnético en el suelo urbano, el cual contiene una mezcla de minerales magnéticos de baja coercitividad o magnetita de origen natural y antrópico. Se detectaron partículas de tamaño superparamagnético en concentraciones medias y bajas en los suelos de baja actividad antrópica lo que sugiere un origen natural. Por otra parte, mediante la combinación de los parámetros magnéticos y a partir de curvas termomagnéticas se encontraron suelos con concentración alta de mineral magnético de origen antrópico. Las concentraciones de Al2O3 y Fe2O3 son altas y similares en la mayor parte de los suelos urbanos en comparación del contenido de MnO. Los usos de suelo que mostraron baja actividad antrópica presentaron un contenido bajo de Pb, mientras que, para los usos de suelo con mayor carga antrópica, se observó que la concentración de Pb se incrementa.

El suelo de los espacios públicos con baja actividad antrópica fue empleado para determinar el valor de referencia para cada elemento y parámetro magnético. El análisis estadístico mostró que, los suelos de AMVA tienen una relación directamente proporcional entre el material magnético y el contenido de Pb e inversamente proporcional con el contenido de Al2O3, Fe2O3 y MnO. Se estableció que el modelo matemático que predice la concentración de elementos a partir de parámetros magnéticos tiene una eficacia de 62 % y que el área que ocupan las zonas de acumulación de material magnético y contenido de Pb es de alrededor de 46 km2, lo cual representa el 25 % de la zona urbana y que es el área probable de riesgo por acumulación de material contaminante.
Principais não conformidades verificadas nas inspeções sanitárias na agricultura familiar e na produção rural de Minas Gerais
Authors:   Instituto Federal de Minas Gerais (IFMG), Bambuí, MG, Brasil, Fernandes César Daniela , Magela Moreira Simone ,   Instituto Federal de Minas Gerais (IFMG), Bambuí, MG, Brasil
Published: November 2020

Introdução: A necessidade do fortalecimento das iniciativas do modelo produtivo de agricultura familiar e do produtor rural em harmonia com os procedimentos de formalização e da produção de alimentos seguros requer da Vigilância Sanitária melhor apreciação do risco relacionado à essas atividades. Objetivo: Analisar o panorama das inadequações às boas práticas de fabricação detectadas nas inspeções sanitárias de produtores rurais ou de agricultores familiares, do estado de Minas Gerais. Método: Estudo transversal elaborado a partir das informações obtidas na “Planilha de notificações de riscos e situações de riscos”, da Superintendência de Vigilância Sanitária de Minas Gerais, resultado de todas as inspeções realizadas entre 2017 e 2019 nos estabelecimentos produtores de alimentos dos produtores rurais e agricultores familiares, dos 853 municípios do estado de Minas Gerais. Resultados: Foram analisadas 3.442 notificações de risco de inspeções sanitárias, sendo possível verificar que os maiores percentuais de não atendimento aos requisitos higiênico-sanitários foram a ausência da capacitação formal dos manipuladores, em 26,00% das inspeções; o uso de água não potável, detectada em 16,50% e a não obediência às boas práticas, pelos manipuladores, citada em 14,20%. Ao contrário, as inadequações de tempo e temperatura no transporte (4,70%), o uso de matérias-primas sem registros (5,10%) e a exposição inadequada (6,20%) dos produtos finais representaram as não conformidades menos referidas nos laudos. Conclusões: As principais não conformidades verificadas nas inspeções da produção de alimentos pelos pequenos empreendimentos rurais de Minas Gerais demonstraram uma polarização no atendimento às exigências sanitárias, com a priorização de adequações à estruturação física, em detrimento aos processos educativos e de saneamento básico. Tais limitações no cumprimento das determinações normativas ressaltaram as fragilidades basilares que dificultam a inclusão produtiva, devendo servir de referência para as iniciativas de desenvolvimento do setor.
Evolução do programa nacional de segurança do paciente: uma análise dos dados públicos disponibilizados pela Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária
Authors:   Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Martins Andrade Alane , da Silva Rodrigues Julya ,   Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Monteiro Lyra Barbara ,   Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, da Silva Costa Jessica ,   Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Nunes do Amaral Braz Mariana ,   Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Amaral Dal Sasso Márcia ,   Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares, Brasília, DF, Brasil, Carneiro Capucho Helaine ,   Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brasil
Published: November 2020

Introdução: O Programa Nacional de Segurança do Paciente (PNSP) foi instituído em 2013 no Brasil e, com ele, legislação que torna obrigatórias a constituição de núcleos de segurança do paciente (NSP) e a notificação de incidentes em estabelecimentos de saúde. Desde então, a Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa) publica boletins contendo compilado das informações contidas nas notificações, porém não faz comparação ao longo do tempo. Objetivo: Analisar, a partir de dados públicos da Anvisa, a evolução do PNSP, em cinco anos. Método: Estudo retrospectivo, de análise documental, a partir da revisão das publicações da Anvisa denominadas Boletim de Segurança do Paciente e Qualidade em Serviços de Saúde, publicadas entre 2015 a 2019. Resultados: Houve aumento no número de NSP em 416,00%, porém representa menos de 50,00% dos estabelecimentos hospitalares brasileiros. As notificações aumentaram em mais de 900,00%, mas ainda se faz necessário qualificar as informações previamente ao envio à Anvisa. A comparação da proporção dos casos mostrou que houve discreta redução dos danos graves e óbitos, porém foram perdidas 1.491 vidas por eventos adversos na assistência à saúde no período avaliado. Estudos que avaliem o impacto de ações nacionais nos resultados do cuidado devem ser estimulados. Conclusões: Ações coordenadas de vigilância sanitária e de assistência à saúde devem ser intensificadas, a fim de tornar a segurança do paciente uma real prioridade de saúde pública no Brasil. Apesar de não haver uma política com financiamento perene de ações, nota-se que o PNSP provocou evolução positiva ao longo dos anos e que a mobilização das instituições e profissionais de saúde brasileiros tem potencial de salvar vidas.
Observatório de Conflitos Urbanos de Curitiba: metodologia e categorias de análise
Authors: Faria José Ricardo Vargas de , Polli Simone Aparecida , Gusso Ramon José
Published: November 2020

Os conflitos urbanos, como expressão da conflitualidade social, são fenômenos importantes e objeto destacado para a reflexão sobre as dinâmicas e relações sociais. A proposta deste trabalho é apresentar categorias e metodologia que contribuam para aprofundar o conhecimento sobre as lutas sociais urbanas e sua inserção na dinâmica mais geral da conflitualidade social, com base na experiência de construção de instrumentos de pesquisa e aportes teóricos que subsidiam o Observatório de Conflitos Urbanos de Curitiba. A análise global dos 707 protestos registrados traz elementos para avaliação do potencial teórico-metodológico da proposta, evidenciando que os protestos acionam, de diferentes maneiras, demandas pela qualificação (melhorias em infraestrutura e serviços), apropriação (reconhecimento de usos) e transformação (modificação dos processos de produção) dos espaços urbanos.
Quantum reference frames for general symmetry groups
Authors: de la Hamette Anne-Catherine , Galley Thomas D.
Published: November 2020

A fully relational quantum theory necessarily requires an account of changes of quantum reference frames, where quantum reference frames are quantum systems relative to which other systems are described. By introducing a relational formalism which identifies coordinate systems with elements of a symmetry groupG, we define a general operator for reversibly changing between quantum reference frames associated to a groupG. This generalises the known operator for translations and boosts to arbitrary finite and locally compact groups, including non-Abelian groups. We show under which conditions one can uniquely assign coordinate choices to physical systems (to form reference frames) and how to reversibly transform between them, providing transformations between coordinate systems which are `in a superposition' of other coordinate systems. We obtain the change of quantum reference frame from the principles of relational physics and of coherent change of reference frame. We prove a theorem stating that the change of quantum reference frame consistent with these principles is unitary if and only if the reference systems carry the left and right regular representations ofG. We also define irreversible changes of reference frame for classical and quantum systems in the case where the symmetry groupGis a semi-direct productG=N⋊Por a direct productG=N×P, providing multiple examples of both reversible and irreversible changes of quantum reference system along the way. Finally, we apply the relational formalism and changes of reference frame developed in this work to the Wigner's friend scenario, finding similar conclusions to those in relational quantum mechanics using an explicit change of reference frame as opposed to indirect reasoning using measurement operators.
A review of Quantum Cellular Automata
Authors: Farrelly Terry
Published: November 2020

Discretizing spacetime is often a natural step towards modelling physical systems. For quantum systems, if we also demand a strict bound on the speed of information propagation, we get quantum cellular automata (QCAs). These originally arose as an alternative paradigm for quantum computation, though more recently they have found application in understanding topological phases of matter and have} been proposed as models of periodically driven (Floquet) quantum systems, where QCA methods were used to classify their phases. QCAs have also been used as a natural discretization of quantum field theory, and some interesting examples of QCAs have been introduced that become interacting quantum field theories in the continuum limit. This review discusses all of these applications, as well as some other interesting results on the structure of quantum cellular automata, including the tensor-network unitary approach, the index theory and higher dimensional classifications of QCAs.
Investigation of irradiated metal of WWER-type reactor internals after 45 years of operation. Part 1. Research program and cutting out of samples from pressure vessel internals
Authors: Margolin B. Z. , Varovin A. Ya. , Minkin A. J. , Gurin D. A. , Glukhov V. A.
Published: November 2020

The program is presented for investigations of the metal of the most irradiated elements of the WWER-440 reactor of the Novovoronezh NPP Unit 3 decommissioned after 45 years of operation. The fragments (cylindrical samples) were cut out from various zones of the core baffle and segment of forming ring of core barrel.
Investigation of irradiated metal of WWER-type reactor internals after 45 years of operation. Part 3. Microstructure and phase composition
Authors: Kuleshova E. A. , Fedotova S. V. , Gurovich B. A. , Frolov A. S. , Maltsev D. A. , Margolin B. Z. , Minkin A. J. , Sorokin A. A.
Published: November 2020

TEM, SEM, and APT techniques have been used to analyze radiation-induced components of metal structure of fragments cut from the pressure vessel internals of Novovoronezh NPP Unit No 3 after 45 years of operation. The fragments differed in the neutron damaging doses (from 14 to 43 dpa) and the irradiation temperature (from 285 to 315°C). The density and dimensions of titanium carbides and carbonitrides, dislocation loops, radiation-induced voids, segregations, and nanoscale precipitates were determined. The contributions of structural components to the radiation hardening of the investigated fragments of 18Cr-10Ni-Ti stainless steel were estimated.
Study of changes in the properties of titanium alloys subjected to neutron irradiation
Authors: Larionov V. V. , Varlachev V. A.
Published: November 2020

A change in the natural composition of titanium subjected to neutron irradiation with energies up to 0.1 MeV is shown. The process is accompanied by the formation of hydrogen and radioactive scandium. Gamma rays with energies of 889 and 1120 keV are observed. The effect of changing the natural composition of the titanium alloy and the presence of gamma studies should be taken into account when creating structural products and when creating a neutron shield based on titanium.
Literacy of Biology Teachers on Supportive Measures During the Biology Learning Process for Primary School Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors:   University of Latvia, Krauja-Kindzule Inta
Published: November 2020

In recent years there has been a lot of discussion about the students’ rights to equal educational quality. Several international documents and reports as well as Latvia’s Education Development Guidelines 2014–2020 envisage provision of inclusive and equitable quality education, reaching the maximum potential of each student according to his/her abilities, willingness and effort, not circumstances the student (also the teacher and parents) have no influence over. Inclusive education is also one of the six education principles included in the project “Competency Based Curriculum” by the National Centre for Education of the Republic of Latvia. Although in Latvia, as well as in other countries around the world, inclusive education is talked about a lot, the actual level of inclusion measured by the international research project OECD PISA 2015 is low and students with disabilities are still segregated. Teachers often lack professional knowledge and skills for working with students with learning disabilities; teachers of biology and natural sciences do not have enough specific recommendations and sample materials to provide adequate support measures for students with learning disabilities. The aim of this paper is to study the literacy of biology teachers at mainstream education schools on the support measures required by primary school students with learning disabilities during the biology learning process. The author analyzed legislative documents, statistics and scientific literature; developed a questionnaire and surveyed biology teachers working in mainstream education schools and summarized the results of the study. The empirical part of research determined the level of biology teachers’ literacy of supportive measures required by students with learning disabilities. The results suggest that biology teachers are able to choose the support measures required by students with learning disabilities during the biology learning process and they know how to provide these support measures according to their knowledge and experience. However, they are not able to use their knowledge and experience to offer and provide support measures tailored to each individual student.
Learning National Identity Outside the Nation-State: the Story Of Latvian Primers (Mid-1940s – Mid-1970s)
Authors:   University of Latvia, Ķestere Iveta , Kaļķe Baiba ,   University of Latvia
Published: November 2020

In order to understand how the concept of national identity, currently included in national legislation and curricula, has been formed, our research focuses on the recent history of national identity formation in the absence of the nation-state “frame”, i.e. in Latvian diaspora on both sides of the Iron Curtain – in Western exile and in Soviet Latvia. The question of our study is: how was national identity represented and taught to next generations in the national community that had lost the protection of its state? As primers reveal a pattern of national identity practice, eight primers published in Western exile and six primers used in Soviet Latvian schools between the mid-1940s and the mid-1970s were taken as research sources. In primers, national identity is represented through the following components: land and nation state iconography, traditions, common history, national language and literature. The past reverberating with cultural heritage became the cornerstone of learning national identity by the Latvian diaspora. The shared, idealised past contrasted the Soviet present and, thus, turned into an instrument of hidden resistance. The model of national identity presented moral codes too, and, teaching them, national communities did not only fulfill their supporting function, but also took on the functions of “normalization” and control. Furthermore, national identity united generations and people’s lives in the present, creating memory-based relationships and memory-based communities.
Subjective Well-Being of International Students in Latvian Higher Education Institutions
Authors:   University of Latvia, Skvorcova Olga , Stavicka Anna ,   University of Latvia, Odiņa Indra ,   University of Latvia
Published: November 2020

Students’ well-being and life satisfaction have been the crucial trends in research and practice over the last decades. Often students, who come to study to another country encounter several challenges in the process of integration in the new host country environment. The article deals with the part of the broader research which aimed at fostering international students’ integration in the environment of the host country – Latvia. The aim of this article is to explore international students’ satisfaction as well as the problems they have encountered in Latvian higher education institutions and thus find out the level of their subjective well-being according to Ryff’s (1989) stated indicators: autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, positive relations with others, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. The data reveal the average score 5.6 out of highest score 7 and the highest scores are for self-acceptance and positive relations with others. The research also coincided with the beginning of the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, thus influencing the number of respondents and representation of the countries in the research sample. The research was conducted in the framework of the project “Multilingual and Multicultural University: Preparation Platform for Prospective International Students” (No. 1.1.1.2/ VIAA/1/16/019) co-funded by ERDF.
Legends and Myths of Online Testing: The Truth is Out There
Authors: Grigorev V. Yu. , Novikova S. E.
Published: November 2020

The article discusses the prospects of the remote format for assessing competencies through a comparative analysis with the development of classical chess, concludes that it is necessary to rethink the role and place of online testing.
Formation of the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation in the 1990s: Conditions and Dynamics
Authors: Bazhukov V. I.
Published: November 2020

The characteristics of the creation of the National Security Strategy of Russian Federation during the first decade after the USSR collapse are considered in the article. The dynamics of its changes under the influence of internal and external factors are also analysed. Russia’s transition from a policy of solidarity with the West to defending national interests is explained in the paper.
Targeting T-cell immunometabolism during transplantation
Authors: KAZMI SHADAB , Khan Mohammad , Shamma Talal , Altuhami Abdullah , Assiri Abdallah , Broering Dieter
Published: November 2020

The balance between the immune system and its metabolism is becoming an
effective therapeutic alternative in various inflammatory diseases,
including organ transplantation. The interaction between the immune and
metabolic pathways play a critical role in dictating disease pathology
and progression, and the differences in the bioenergetic demands between
immune cells enable them to differentiate into effector and regulatory
cells. Recent studies have suggested that changes in intracellular
metabolic programs control T cell activation, proliferation and
differentiation into T effector (Teffs) or T regulatory cells (Tregs),
and metabolic differences between Tregs and Teffs can shift the balance
toward a more specific immune tolerance in organ rejection.
Pharmacological targeting of T cells metabolism affects the balance
between effector and regulatory function of T cells.This therapeutic
modulation are of great interest in cancer, autoimmunity, and organ
transplantation. In this review, we discuss major metabolic pathways
that influence the activation, proliferation and differentiation of
Tregs, and also special emphasis on liver kinase B1 (LKB1) pathway that
provide stability of Tregs. We also highlight how Tregs metabolic
regulome and LKB1 signaling pathway relationship contribute to rescue
organ transplants from associated injuries and chronic rejection.
Applying Logistic and Monod models in a single equations system framework for cell culture growth modeling and estimation
Authors: Fuad Mohd Nazri Mohd
Published: November 2020

In modeling cell culture growth, two types of modeling equations are
normally used: logistic and Monod. These two equations are known for
their strengths and weaknesses in modeling cell culture growth. In this
contribution, we show how these equations can be used in a single
equations system framework to model cell culture growth that is
supported by experimental observation. Specifically, we propose that
logistic equation is used to model the dynamic of total cells growth
that is simply the summation of viable and dead cells populations in the
system. Subsequently, Monod equation is used to model the dynamic of
viable cells growth that is subjected to growth-limiting substrate and
cells death rate term. With this paradigm, a rate equation can be
written for the accumulation of dead cells in the system with a simple
understanding that dead cells population is simply the difference
between total and viable cells. These equations can be adjoined with
appropriate substrate consumption and product generation rate equations
to depict a complete time course profiles of batch culture experiment.
This modeling framework has been fitted successfully to depict a batch
growth data of IgG-secreting murine hybridoma cell from published
literature.
Asthma is not a risk factor for the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Mexican population
Authors: Morales-Romero Jaime , Bedolla-Barajas Martín
Published: November 2020

Background. Asthma does not seem to confer a risk for developing a
disease caused by 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The aim of this
study was to assess the association between asthma and severity of
COVID-19 in the Mexican population. Methods. In a cross-sectional study,
we analyzed the data of the population in Mexico who underwent a test to
detect COVID-19 from February 27 to June 21, 2020. The primary outcomes
were hospitalization, pneumonia, endotracheal intubation, and death
related to COVID-19 in patients with asthma. Results. Asthma was
associated with a lower risk of hospitalization (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.66
to 0.76), lower risk of pneumonia (OR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.81), and
lower risk of endotracheal intubation (OR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.98).
In addition, asthma decreased the risk of dying from COVID-19 (OR =
0.73, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.82). In a subgroup analysis, the same trend was
observed in patients who required hospitalization (OR = 0.79, 95% CI
0.69 to 0.90); while in non-hospitalized patients, associations were
inconsistent according to the covariates introduced to the models. There
was no association between asthma and death in patients admitted to the
intensive care unit (ICU); however, in hospitalized patients who did not
require ICU management, asthma significantly reduced the risk of dying.
Conclusion. Our results suggest that compared to patients without
asthma, patients with asthma are less likely to require hospitalization,
develop pneumonia, be intubated endotracheally, or die from COVID-19.
The Association between Dietary Inflammatory Index with Sleep Quality and Obesity among Iranian Female Students: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: bazyar hadi , zarejavid ahmad , Behbahani Hossein Bavi , NITIN SHIVAPPA , HEBERT JAMES , Khodaramhpour Sara , Zadeh Sara Khaje , aghamohammadi vahideh
Published: November 2020

Background: Overweight, obesity and lack of sleep quality as
inflammatory states are the common problems among college students and
the Association of Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) with these problems
among this population is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the relationship
of the DII with obesity and sleep quality among Iranian female students.
Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in 249 female
college students. The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was calculated
using a valid and reliable 147-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ).
To assess sleep quality, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used.
Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were estimated for
anthropometric indices and sleep quality according to DII score. Linear
regression was used to estimate the relationship between DII score with
sleep and anthropometric indices. Results: There was a significant
association evident between DII and sleep quality(> 5 is
considered as poor quality of sleep); i.e., the odds ratios between DII
quartile 2 vs 1 (unadjusted model: OR= 0.33 (CI: 0.14-0.74), P for trend
=0.002; model 1: the fully adjusted OR= 0.31(CI: 0.12-0.78), P for trend
= 0.005; model 2:OR=0.30 (CI:0.12-0.78), P for trend = 0.005) to
quartile 4(unadjusted model: OR= 1.13(CI: 0.45-2.80); model 1: OR=
1.11(CI: 0.44-2.79); model 2:OR=1.13(CI:0.44-2.87), P for trend =
0.005). Also, odds ratios increased significantly from quartile 2 to
quartile 4 in all models for DII and sleep quality. According to the
continuous score of DII, there was a significant positive association
between DII and sleep quality in all 3 models: unadjusted, model 1, and
model 2 (OR= 1.21 (CI: 1.05-1.40), OR= 1.21 (CI: 1.03-1.43), and OR=
1.22 (CI: 1.03-1.44), respectively. Conclusions: In this study, after
removing the effect of confounding factors, participants in the highest
quartile of DII score had significantly higher PSQI global score.
Novel Functional Derivatives of Methyl-cis-9,10-Epoxy-Octadecanoate
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University 12 Bandera str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Skachko Stanislav , Hevus Orest ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University 12 Bandera str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Dolynska Larysa ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University 12 Bandera str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine
Published: November 2020

The synthesis of functional derivatives of epoxystearic acid methyl ester by oxirane ring opening and transesterification of ester group has been described. Some novel surface-active and peroxide-containing compounds have been obtained. Major features of the process have been investigated and main characteristics have been determined.
Matrix Polymerization of 2-Hydroxyethylmethacrylate in the Presence of Polyvinylpyrrolidone in Permanent Magnetic Field
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University 12 S. Bandery str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Skorokhoda Volodymyr
Published: November 2020

The influence of a constant magnetic field on the polymerization kinetics and structural parameters of a hydrogel network on the basis of 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate and polyvinylpyrrolidone compositions has been investigated. It has been shown that the magnetic field activates matrix polymerization of such compositions and assists in structure formation of copolymers with minor cross-link density. The efficiency of the developed polymeric materials used for production of ultrathin contact lenses has been confirmed.