bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HDL-Cholesterol Efflux Capacity and Lipid Profile in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Ferraz-Amaro Iván , Delgado-Frías Esmeralda , Hernández-Hernández Vanesa , Sánchez-Pérez Hiurma , de Armas-Rillo Laura , Armas-González Estefanía , Machado José David , Diaz-Gonzalez Federico
Published: August 2020

Objective. It is well established that patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) have a disrupted lipid profile and an increased cardiovascular risk. Cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC), the ability of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol to accept cholesterol from macrophages has been linked to cardiovascular events. The aim of this study was to establish whether CEC and lipid profile were impaired in SSc patients respect to controls and whether these changes were associated with disease-related data.Methods. Cross-sectional study encompassed 188 individuals: 73 SSc patients and 115 controls. CEC, using an in vitro assay, and lipoprotein serum concentrations were assessed in patients and controls. A multivariable analysis was performed to study the differences in CEC between patients and controls, and if SSc-related data could explain such differences. Results. The multivariate analysis adjusted for demographic characteristics, cardiovascular risk factors and lipid-related molecules showed that total cholesterol (beta coefficient: -22 [95%CI -37- -7], p=0.004), triglycerides (beta coefficient: 24 [95%CI 2-47], p=0.033), lipoprotein A (beta coefficient: 22 [95%CI 2-43], p=0.033) and CEC (beta coefficient: -6 [95%CI -10- -2]%,p=0.002) were significantly differences between patients and controls. Skin thickness, as assessed by modified Rodnan skin score, was independently associated with a lower CEC (beta coefficient: -0.21 [95%CI -0.37- -0.05]%, p=0.011) after multivariable adjustment.Conclusion: SSc patients show an abnormal lipid profile respect to controls including CEC, a finding that could be involved in the increased cardiovascular burden suffered by these patients. Skin thickness is independent and inversely associated with CEC in SSc patients.
Improved Gossypium Raimondii Genome Using a Hi-C-based Proximity-Guided Assembly
Authors: Song Huoli , Yang Qiuhong , Zuo Dongyun , Wang Qiaolian , Cheng Hailiang , Feng Xiaoxu , Ashraf Javaria , Zhang Youping , Li Simin , Chen Xiaoqin
Published: August 2020

Genome sequence plays an important role both in basic and applied studies. Gossypium raimondii, the putative contributor of the D subgenome of Upland cotton (G. hirsutum), highlights the need to improve the genome quality in a rapid and efficient way. Here, we performed Hi-C sequencing of G. raimondii and reassembled its genome based on new Hi-C data and previously published scaffolds. We identified and corrected errors of initial scaffolds before reassembled into chromosomes. In total 98.42% of sequence was clustered successfully, among which 99.72% of the clustered sequence was ordered and 99.92% of the ordered sequence was oriented with high-quality. Further evaluation of results by heat-map and collinearity analysis revealed that the current reassembled genome is significantly improved than previous one. This improvement in G. raimondii genome not only provides a better reference genome to increase study efficiency, but also offers a new way to assemble cotton genomes. Furthermore, Hi-C data of G. raimondii may be used for 3D structure research or regulating analysis.
Thermal Remote Sensing: A tool to Determine Temporal Land Surface Temperature in Hawassa City, Ethiopia
Authors: Molla Mikias Biazen
Published: August 2020

This investigation was conducted for the estimation of the temporal land surface temperature value using thermal remote sensing of Landsat-8 (OLI) Data in Hawassa City Administration, Ethiopia. Satellite datasets of Landsat-7 (ETM+) for 22nd March 2002 and Landsat-8 (OLI) of 22nd March 2019 were taken for this study. Different algorisms were used to estimate the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index threshold from the Red and Near-Infrared band and the ground earth's surface emissivity esteem is legitimately recovered from the thermal infrared by coordinating with the outcome got from MODIS information. The land use land cover map of the city was prepared with better accuracy using the on-screen classification technique. The spatial distribution of surface temperature of the city range from 6.62°C to 22.54°C with a mean of 14.58°C and a standard deviation of 11.25 in the year of march 22nd 2002. The LST result derived from Landsat 8 for March 22nd, 2019, ranges from 11.97°C to 35.5°C with a mean of 23.735 °C and a standard deviation of 16.64. In both years the higher LST values correspond to built-up/settlement and bare/open lands of the city; whereas, lower LST values were observed in vegetation (trees/woodlot, shrubs, and grass forested) area. Urban expansion (built-up area roads, and another impervious surface), decline in vegetation levels due to deforestation and increasing population density. Increasing an evergreen tree and green space coverage, design and develop city parks and rehabilitate the existing degraded natural environments are among the recommended strategy to reduce the rate of LST.
CT-based Radiomics Combined with Signs: A Valuable Tool to help Physician Discriminate COVID-19 and Other Viral Pneumonia
Authors: Huang Yilong , Zhang Zhenguang , Li Xiang , Yang Yunhui , Li Zhipeng , Zhou Jialong , Jiang Yuanming , Ma Jiyao , Liu Siyun , HE Bo
Published: August 2020

Background: ﻿In this COVID-19 pandemic, the differential diagnosis of different viral types of pneumonia is still challenging. We aimed to assess the classification performance of computed tomography (CT)-based CT signs and radiomics features for discriminating COVID-19 pneumonia and other viral pneumonia.Methods: A total of 181 patients with confirmed viral pneumonia (COVID-19: 89 cases, Non-COVID-19: 92 cases; training cohort: 126 cases; test cohort: 55 cases) were collected retrospectively in this study. Pneumonia signs and radiomics features were extracted from the initial unenhanced chest CT images to build independent and combined models. The predictive performance of the radiomics model and the combined model were evaluated using an intra-cross validation cohort. Diagnostic performance of two models was assessed via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.Results: ﻿The combined models consisted of 3 significant CT signs and 14 selected features and demonstrated better discrimination performance between COVID-19 and Non-COVID-19 pneumonia than the single radiomics model. For the radiomics model along, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) were 0.904 (sensitivity, 85.5%; specificity, 84.4%; accuracy, 84.9%) in the training cohort and 0.866 (sensitivity, 77.8%; specificity, 78.6%; accuracy, 78.2%) in the test cohort. After combining CT signs and radiomics features, AUC of the combined model for the training cohort was 0.956 (sensitivity, 91.9%; specificity, 85.9%; accuracy, 88.9%), while that for the test cohort was 0.943 (sensitivity, 88.9%; specificity, 85.7%; accuracy, 87.3%).Conclusion: ﻿CT-based radiomics combined with signs might be a potential method for distinguishing COVID-19 and other viral pneumonia with satisfactory performance.
Medical studies during the COVID-19 pandemic: the impact of digital learning on burnout and mental health
Authors: Zis Panagiotis , Artemiadis Artemios , Bargiotas Panagiotis , Nteveros Antonios , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios M.
Published: August 2020

Objectives: The aim of this ecological study was to investigate what the impact of digital learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic was on the burnout and the overall mental health (MH) of medical students.Background: During the unprecedent era of COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of countries worldwide adopted very strong measurements. The universities closed their doors and the education continued through digital learning lectures.Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was administered to all 189 eligible candidates before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mental health was assessed via the MH domain of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and burnout with the Maslach Burnout Inventory – Student Survey (MBI-SS).Results: Overall response rate was 81.5%. The overall burnout prevalence did not differ significantly between the two periods (pre COVID-19 18.1% vs COVID-19 18.2%). However, the burnout prevalence dropped significantly in year 4 (pre COVID-19 40.7% vs COVID-19 16.7%, p=0.011) whereas it increased significantly in year 6 (pre COVID-19 27.6% vs COVID-19 50%, p=0.01). When looking each MBI-SS dimension separately, we found that emotional exhaustion decreased significantly in year 4 but increased in year 6 and cynicism increased in all years. The overall MH deteriorated significantly between the two periods (pre COVID-19 58.8±21.6 vs COVID-19 48.3±23, p<0.001). Conclusions: Digital learning in medical studies carries significant risks. Not only the MH deteriorates the cynicism levels increase. Emotional exhaustion increases particularly in final year students, who struggle with the lack of clinical experience just before they start working as qualified junior doctors.
Chronic HBV Infection Associates with Improvement of Lipid Profile and Steatosis-Related Impairment in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Lipidomic Analysis
Authors: Li Han , Xu Qing-Yang , Xie Yang , Luo Ji-Jun , Cao Hai-Xia , Pan Qin
Published: August 2020

BackgroundChronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection exerts an impact on lipid metabolism, but its interaction with dysmetabolism-based nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains uncertain. The present study performs lipidomic and pathological comparison in NAFLD patients with or without chronic HBV infection so as to highlight its effects on lipid metabolism and metabolic liver disease.MethodsBiopsy-proven Chinese NAFLD patients with (NAFLD-HBV group, n=21) or without chronic HBV infection (NAFLD group, n=41) were enrolled in the case-control study. Their serum lipid profile was subjected to individual investigation by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Steatosis, activity, and fibrosis (SAF) scoring revealed the NAFLD-specific pathological characteristics. The effects of chronic HBV infection on demographic and clinical manifestations, serum lipidomics, and pathological characteristics were statistically assessed.ResultsChronic HBV infection associated with global alteration of serum lipid profile in NAFLD patients. Upregulation of phosphatidylcholine (PCs), choline plasmalogen (PC-Os) and downregulation of free fatty acids (FFAs), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPCs) dominated the HBV-related lipidomic characteristics. Compared to those of NAFLD group, the levels of serum hepatoxic lipids (FFAs: FFA16:0, FFA16: 1, FFA18:1, FFA18:2) were significantly lowered in the NAFLD-HBV group. These low-level FFAs demonstrated correlation to statistical improvements in aspartate aminotransferase activity (FFA16:0, r = 0.34, P = 0.003; FFA16:1, r = 0.37, P < 0.001; FFA18:1, r = 0.33, P < 0.001; FFA18:2, r = 0.42, P < 0.001), hepatocyte steatosis (FFA16: 1, r = 0.39, P = 0.01; FFA18:1, r = 0.39, P = 0.015; FFA18:2, r = 0.33, P = 0.036), and ballooning (FFA16:0, r = 0.31, P = 0.037; FFA16:1, r = 0.45, P < 0.001; FFA18:1, r = 0.37, P = 0.005; FFA18:2, r=0.30, P = 0.013).ConclusionChronic HBV infection may present improvements in the serum lipidomics and steatosis-related pathological characteristics of NAFLD.Trial registrationTrial registration number: ChiCTR-DDT-13003983. Registered 13 May, 2013, http://www.chictr.org.cn/enIndex.aspx?proj=5584.
Knowledge and Compliance with Covid-19 Infection Prevention and Control measures among Health Workers in Regional Referral Hospitals in Northern Uganda: A cross-sectional Online Survey
Authors: Amanya Sharon Bright , Nyeko Richard , Obura Bonniface , Acen Joy , Nabasirye Caroline , Oyella Florence , Afayo Victor , Okwir Mark
Published: August 2020

Background:Infection prevention and control (IPC) has increasingly been underscored as a key tool for limiting the transmission of Covid-19 and safeguarding health workers from infections during their work. Knowledge and compliance with IPC measures is therefore essential in protecting health workers. However, this has not been established among Ugandan health workers in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.Objective: To determine the knowledge and compliance with Covid-19 infection prevention and control measures among health workers in regional referral hospitals in Northern Uganda.Methods: An online cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 75 health workers in regional referral hospitals within Northern Uganda. A structured questionnaire was distributed to health workers via WhatsApp messenger. Sufficient knowledge was considered at a correct response score of ≥80%, while adequate compliance was rated ≥75 of the maximum score. Data were analyzed using SPSS v21.Results: The majority of the health workers had good knowledge (69%) and compliance (68%) with Covid-19 IPC. Good compliance was significantly associated with training in Covid-19 IPC (p=0.039), access to Covid-19 IPC at work stations (p=0.036), and having sufficient institutional support (p=0.031). However, there was no significant relationship between knowledge and compliance with IPC (p=0.007). The sociodemographic characteristics of health workers, including age, sex, education level, occupation, working hours and work experience, had no statistically significant relationship with Cvid-19 IPC knowledge or compliance.Discussion: Our findings provide support for IPC training and guidelines as well as adequate PPEs to be available to health workers to improve compliance with Covid-19 IPC.
Comparison of Confirmatory Factor Analysis Estimation Methods on Binary Data
Authors: KILIÇ Abdullah , UYSAL İbrahim , ATAR Burcu
Published: August 2020

This Monte Carlo simulation study aimed to investigate confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) estimation methods under different conditions, such as sample size, distribution of indicators, test length, average factor loading, and factor structure. Binary data were generated to compare the performance of maximum likelihood (ML), mean and variance adjusted unweighted least squares (ULSMV), mean and variance adjusted weighted least squares (WLSMV), and Bayesian estimators. As a result of the study, it was revealed that increased average factor loading and sample size had a positive effect on the performance of the estimation methods. According to the research findings, it can be said that the methods are sufficient to estimate average factor loading and interfactor correlations, regardless of the estimation methods, in most of the conditions where the average factor loading is 0.7. In small sample sizes particularly, the interfactor correlation was underestimated for skewed indicator conditions. According to the findings of the study, although there is not the most accurate method in all conditions, it can be recommended to use ULSMV method because it performs adequately in more conditions.
Establishing survey validity: A practical guide
Authors: COBERN William , ADAMS Betty
Published: August 2020

What follows is a practical guide for establishing the validity of a survey for research purposes. The motivation for providing this guide is our observation that researchers, not necessarily being survey researchers per se, but wanting to use a survey method, lack a concise resource on validity. There is far more to know about surveys and survey construction than what this guide provides; and this guide should only be used as a starting point. However, for the needs of many researchers, this guide provides sufficient, basic information on survey validity. The guide, furthermore, includes references to important handbooks for researchers needing further information.
Rede de Colaboração da Agricultura Familiar no Município de Porto Velho (RO)
Authors: Silva Eliane Alves , Nascimento Sérgio Nogueira do , Souza Mariluce Paes de , Pedrozo Eugenio Avila
Published: August 2020

Há necessidade de se desenvolver uma economia alternativa onde a exploração pode ser evitada, novas perspectivas de ocupação produtiva e reforçar trajetórias de inclusão social. Portanto o objetivo deste artigo é analisar o processo de relações, práticas e translações da formação de uma rede da agricultura familiar no município de Porto Velho-RO, sob a ótica da Teoria Ator-Rede.  Sua relevância consiste em provocar reflexões sobre quem são os atores dessa rede, como influenciam e são influenciados e quais os resultados dessa interação. Este artigo caracteriza-se por ser uma pesquisa analítica, de natureza qualitativa e direcionada por um estudo de caso. Utilizou-se da Teoria Ator-Rede (TAR), a qual traz contribuições importantes, por se tratar de uma abordagem que propõe uma modificação em relação ao que se entende por “social”.  Conclui-se que a rede foi construída em torno de três pilares: ideologia campesina, mercado e setor público. A ideologia campesina compreende a organização dos agricultores, Sindicato dos Trabalhadores Rurais do Brasil, Confederação Nacional dos Trabalhadores na Agricultura (CONTAG) e União de Cooperativas da Agricultura Familiar e Economia Solidária (UNICAFES). O setor público é representado pelas secretarias municipais SEMED, SEMAGRIC juntamente com as escolas municipais, pela CONAB e EMATER. O mercado compreende o SEBRAE e os consumidores de produtos agroecológicos. Verificou-se que o setor público juntamente com a ideologia camponesa são responsáveis pela inclusão de agricultores mais vulneráveis à rede, e que, à medida que os agricultores vão se consolidando, migram do papel de camponês para o de empreendedor.
Macrofluxo com Ações Integradas de Frameworks para Gerenciamento de Projetos: um estudo em operadora de planos de saúde
Authors: Salla Neusa Maria Da Costa Gonçalves , Grassel Lisandro Rodrigo , Seibert Rosane Maria
Published: August 2020

Embora o planejamento estratégico seja utilizado para apoiar as organizações a alcançar os seus objetivos para manterem-se competitivas no mercado, pesquisas mostram que existem dificuldades na sua implementação e gerenciamento, sendo uma das principais dificuldades a falta de estrutura e metodologias adequadas para gerenciar a execução dos projetos definidos a partir dos objetivos estratégicos. Esta pesquisa trata de temas relacionados ao gerenciamento de projetos associados com a implementação do planejamento estratégico das empresas. O objeto de estudo foi a proposição de macro fluxos com ações integradas de frameworks para o gerenciamento de projetos em uma operadora de planos de saúde. Quanto aos aspectos metodológicos a pesquisa é de natureza aplicada, quanto aos objetivos é descritiva e explicativa, quanto a forma de abordagem do problema é qualitativa. Os procedimentos técnicos utilizados foram a pesquisa bibliográfica, documental, estudo de caso e análise de conteúdo. O desenvolvimento prático consiste na caracterização da organização; análise do planejamento estratégico; identificação da metodologia utilizada no gerenciamento de projetos; diagnóstico da situação dos projetos estratégicos; e a elaboração da proposta para a gestão de projetos estratégicos. A partir das análises dos dados coletados, considerando as principais dificuldades identificadas por meio da análise de conteúdo, presentes nas etapas de desdobramento, implementação e acompanhamento da estratégia na organização, propôs-se um macro fluxo com ações integradas de frameworks para o gerenciamento dos projetos estratégicos, com o objetivo de beneficiar a organização com uma metodologia estruturada e integrada para o seu gerenciamento de projetos.
On The Performance Of 1-Bit ADC In Massive MIMO Communication Systems
Authors: Dang Hung N , Nguyen Thuy Van , Nguyen Hieu Trung
Published: August 2020

Massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) with low-resolution analog-to-digital converters is a rational solution to deal with hardware costs and accomplish optimal energy efficiency. In particular, utilizing 1-bit ADCs is one of the best choices for massive MIMO systems. This paper investigates the performance of the 1-bit ADC in the wireless coded communication systems where the robust channel coding, protograph low-density parity-check code (LDPC), is employed. The investigation reveals that the performance of the conventional 1-bit ADC with the truncation limit of 3-sigma is severely destroyed by the quantization distortion even when the number of antennas increases to 100. The optimized 1-bit ADC, though having substantial performance gain over the conventional one, is also affected by the quantization distortion at high coding rates and low MIMO configurations. Importantly, the investigation results suggest that the protograph LDPC codes should be re-designed to combat the negative effect of the quantization distortion of the 1-bit ADC.
Application of nature-inspired optimization algorithms to ANFIS model to predict wave-induced scour depth around pipelines
Authors: Sharafati Ahmad , Tafarojnoruz Ali , Motta Davide , Yaseen Zaher Mundher
Published: August 2020

Wave-induced scour depth below pipelines is a physically complex phenomenon, whose reliable prediction may be challenging for pipeline designers. This study shows the application of adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) incorporated with particle swarm optimization , ant colony (), differential evolution and genetic algorithm () and assesses the scour depth prediction performance and associated uncertainty in different scour conditions including live-bed and clear-water. To this end, the non-dimensional parameters Shields number (), Keulegan–Carpenter number () and embedded depth to diameter of pipe ratio () are considered as prediction variables. Results indicate that the model ( and ) is the most accurate predictive model in both scour conditions when all three mentioned non-dimensional input parameters are included. Besides, the model shows a better prediction performance than recently developed models. Based on the uncertainty analysis results, the prediction of scour depth is characterized by larger uncertainty in the clear-water condition, associated with both model structure and input variable combination, than in live-bed condition. Furthermore, the uncertainty in scour depth prediction for both live-bed and clear-water conditions is due more to the input variable combination than it is due to the model structure .
Corporate employee health management system
Authors: Kosharnaya Galina B. , Danilova Elena A. , Marakaeva Kira M.
Published: August 2020

As you know, the main goal of any organization is to make a profit, build financial capacity and maximize income. In this process, the work of the company’s management is important in finding any ways to reduce the company’s costs. But, nevertheless, the functioning of the organization is impossible without the use of human resources, their development in the future. Statistics show that often an ill employee costs the organization much more than the savings on working conditions that many organizations are trying to realize in order to reduce staff costs. The article emphasizes the need to implement a corporate employee health management system, discloses how it can be cost-effective for organizations and useful for employees. In Russian companies, caring for employees, developing corporate policy as a strategy for the future has not yet become widespread. Many are looking for benefits in reducing the number of employees, in reducing wages, in making temporary employees, in the effectiveness of managerial decisions. Objectively, companies want instant results without long-term and mixed investments. According to Rosstat, in Russia, about 30% of the employees of all the companies surveyed work in conditions that simply do not meet sanitary and hygienic requirements. Meanwhile, in foreign countries, health management programs are reaching a new, progressive level, which includes not only improving working conditions, but also holding Health Days, changing the lifestyle of employees (promoting a healthy lifestyle, adjusting nutrition programs, increasing physical activity, etc.), as well as regular monitoring and health monitoring of employees. The main research methods were: review method, which allows to obtain accessible and complete information on the topic of the article; cross-cultural analysis used to compare the attitude of employers to the health of employees in Russia and abroad and to identify the degree of similarity and difference in the modality of health values in different countries, as well as a method of secondary analysis of the results of sociological studies on the topic of research.
Recent Advances in the Scaffold Engineering of Protein Binders
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad K.B. , Mohammadi Seyed A. , Makvandi Manoochehr , Mamouei Morteza , Rahmati Mohammad , Dehghani Hesam , Wood David W.
Published: August 2020

In recent years, extensive attention has been given to the generation of new classes of ligand-
specific binding proteins to supplement monoclonal antibodies. A combination of protein engineering
and display technologies has been used to manipulate non-human antibodies for humanization
and stabilization purposes or even the generation of new binding proteins. Engineered protein scaffolds
can now be directed against therapeutic targets to treat cancer and immunological disorders. Although
very few of these scaffolds have successfully passed clinical trials, their remarkable properties such as
robust folding, high solubility, and small size motivate their employment as a tool for biology and applied
science studies. Here, we have focused on the generation of new non-Ig binding proteins and single
domain antibody manipulation, with a glimpse of their applications.
Effect of the Association and Evaluation of the Induction to Adaptation of the (+)-α-pinene with Commercial Antimicrobials against Strains of Escherichia coli
Authors: do Amaral Felipe Lemos Esteves , Farias Ticiane Costa , de Brito Raquel Carlos , de Melo Thamara Rodrigues , Ferreira Paula Benvindo , Lima Zilka Nanes , da Silva Francisco Fábio Marques , Ferreira Sávio Benvindo
Published: August 2020

Background:

The increasing and inappropriate use of antibiotics has increased the number of
multidrug-resistant microorganisms to these drugs, causing the emergence of infections that are difficult
to control and manage by health professionals. As an alternative to combat these pathogens, some
monoterpenes have harmful effects on the bacterial cell membrane, showing themselves as an alternative
in combating microorganisms. Therefore, the positive enantiomer α -pinene becomes an alternative to
fight bacteria, since it was able to inhibit the growth of the species Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, demonstrating
the possibility of its use as an isolated antimicrobial or associated with other drugs.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the sensitivity profile of E. coli ATCC 25922 strain against
clinical antimicrobials associated with (+) -α-pinene and how it behaves after successive exposures to
subinhibitory concentrations of the phytochemicals.

Methods:

: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the microdilution
method. The study of the modulating effect of (+) -α-pinene on the activity of antibiotics for clinical use
in strains of E. coli and the analysis of the strain's adaptation to the monoterpene were tested using the
adapted disk-diffusion method.

Results:

The results demonstrate that the association of monoterpene with the antimicrobials ceftazidime,
amoxicillin, cefepime, cefoxitin and amikacin is positive since it leads to the potentiation of the
antibiotic effect of these compounds. It was observed that the monoterpene was able to induce crossresistance
only for antimicrobials: cefuroxime, ceftazidime, cefepime and chloramphenicol.

Conclusion:

It is necessary to obtain more concrete data for the safe use of these combinations, paying
attention to the existence of some type of existing toxicity reaction related to the herbal medicine and to
understand the resistance mechanisms acquired by the microorganism.
Benzimidazole Derivative Ameliorates Opioid-Mediated Tolerance during Anticancer- Induced Neuropathic Pain in Mice
Authors: Akhtar Sana , Abbas Muzaffar , Naeem Komal , Faheem Muhammad , Nadeem Humaira , Mehmood Amber
Published: August 2020

Background:

Cancer is known to be the second significant cause of death worldwide. Chemotherapeutic
agents such as platinum-based compounds are frequently used single-handedly or accompanied by additional
chemotherapies to treat cancer patients. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral painful neuropathy is seen in
around 40% of patients who are treated with platinum-based compounds, including cisplatin. This not only
decreases the quality of life of patients but also patients’ compliance with cisplatin.

Objectives:

Nalbuphine, an opioid, is frequently used to treat acute and chronic pain, coupled with cisplatin in
cancer patients. However, long term use of nalbuphine induces tolerance to its analgesic effects. We employed
the same strategy to induce tolerance in mice.

Methods:

Here, we investigated analgesic effects of 2-[(pyrrolidin-1-yl) methyl]-1H-benzimidazole (BNZ), a
benzimidazole derivative, on nalbuphine-induced tolerance during cisplatin-induced neuropathic pain using hot
plate test, tail-flick tests and von Frey filament in mouse models. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of
BNZ on the expression of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the spinal cord.

Results:

The results showed that BNZ reduced tolerance to analgesic effects of nalbuphine and TNF-α expression
in mice.

Conclusion:

BNZ could be a potential drug candidate for the management of nalbuphine-induced tolerance in
cisplatin-induced neuropathic pain.
Indazole as a Privileged Scaffold: The Derivatives and their Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Qin Jinling , Cheng Weyland , Duan Yong-Tao , Yang Hua , Yao Yongfang
Published: August 2020

Background:

Heterocyclic compounds, also called heterocycles, are a major class of organic chemical
compound that plays a vital role in the metabolism of all living cells. The heterocyclic compound, indazole,
has attracted more attention in recent years and is widely present in numerous commercially available drugs.
Indazole-containing derivatives, representing one of the most important heterocycles in drug molecules, are
endowed with a broad range of biological properties.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science regarding articles
related to indazole and its therapeutic application.

Results:

The mechanism and structure-activity relationship of indazole and its derivatives were described. Based
on their versatile biological activities, the compounds were divided into six groups: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial,
anti-HIV, antiarrhythmic, antifungal and antitumour. At least 43 indazole-based therapeutic agents were
found to be used in clinical application or clinical trials.

Conclusion:

This review is a guide for pharmacologists who are in search of valid preclinical/clinical drug
compounds where the progress of approved marketed drugs containing indazole scaffold is examined from 1966
to the present day. Future direction involves more diverse bioactive moieties with indazole scaffold and greater
insights into its mechanism.
Selfie Behaviors and Personality Traits: More than Meets the Eye
Authors: Mihailescu Alexandra M.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Selfies are a rising phenomenon associated with the widespread use of smartphones and social media. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between different personality traits and selfie behaviors.

Methods:

Undergraduate psychology students were asked to complete a questionnaire about their frequency of selfie taking, selfie posting to social media, and selfie sharing through private messaging. They were also asked to complete the Rosenberg 10-item self-esteem scale and the International Personality Item Pool (IPIP)-50 item scale to evaluate the Big Five personality traits.

Results:

A total of 96 participants were included in this study (mean age ± standard deviation of 26.4 ± 9.0 years, 81.3% women). On univariate analysis there was a significant negative correlation between the frequency of selfie taking (Spearman r = -0.228, p = 0.025) or posting (Spearman r = -0.238, p = 0.025) and emotional stability. However, on multivariate linear regression analysis adjusting for age among other factors, only self-esteem was independently and negatively correlated with the frequency of selfie taking (beta = -0.206, p = 0.020) or posting (beta = -0.233, p = 0.020), with the effect most notable in young (<25 years) individuals for selfie taking. Extraversion was independently and positively correlated with the frequency of selfie sharing (beta = 0.264, p = 0.005), with the effect most notable in young (<25 years) women.

Conclusion:

Findings from this study further expand our knowledge of the relationship between different personality traits and rising digital media phenomena.
Catalytic Wet Air Oxidation of Sewage Sludge: A Review
Authors: Li De-bin , Wang Duo , Jiang Zi-sheng
Published: August 2020

Wet air oxidation (WAO) is an attractive technique for sewage sludge treatment. The
WAO process and the factors influencing the process are examined in detail, together with the advantages
and disadvantages. Catalytic wet air oxidation (CWAO) is emphasized because it can lower
operational conditions, and the commonly-used and new homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts
are introduced. Homogeneous catalysts tend to be more appropriate for the CWAO treatment
of sewage sludge, and Cu-based homogeneous catalysts such as CuSO4 are the most popular for industrial
applications. Heterogeneous catalysts include non-noble metal catalysts, noble metal catalysts,
metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) catalysts, and non-metal catalysts. Non-noble metal catalysts
typically contain hetero-elements as in Mo-based, Ce-based, Cu-based, Fe-based catalysts,
multi-metal supported catalysts, and polyoxometalates catalysts. In general, Mo-based catalysts
and Ce-based catalysts have higher activities than other metal-based catalysts. The commonly-used
noble metal elements are based on Ru, Pt, Pd, Rh, and Ir. The MOF catalysts tend to have high catalytic
activity, and the non-metallic carbon catalysts may be used in environments that would otherwise
be toxic to traditional metal catalysts. To conclude, a summary of the challenges and
prospects of WAO technology in sewage sludge treatment is given.
Investigation of the Behavior of Output Variables for Arbitrary Inputs to high Voltage Direct Current Power System Modeling Using Lyapunov Function Nonlinear Control Model
Authors: Goughari Rohollah S. , Shahbazzadeh Mehdi J. , Eslami Mahdieh
Published: August 2020

Background:

Until now, a variety of proportional integral controllers and local controllers and predictive
controller models have been used to stabilize VSC-HVDC transmission lines. One of the disadvantages of a linear model
predictive control is that it is difficult and time consuming to adjust it for times when the disturbance entering the system
is sudden. the goal is to monitor and take appropriate action to balance power and eliminate voltage or current that has
exceeded the allowable limit.

Methods:

The way it works is that first, the DC current and the measured voltage of converter power source (VSC) is supplied
based on various factors, and then the converters slowly begin to track the desired reference value, and this
continues until the power sources adjusted according to current and voltage limits.

Results:

To achieve this goal, this paper examines recent articles on the modeling of VSC-HVDC power transmission
systems and a comprehensive model has been chosen that has not been published for several months since its publication.
Next, to control the se-lected model, the combined control strategy of nonlinear predictive based on the Lyapunov
function is used to ensure the stability of the system.

Conclusion:

The results of the implementation of this control strategy on the HVDC power transmission system model in
MATLAB soft-ware express the ability of this controller to track the reference input values.
The Reluctant Manager
Authors: Sherman Herbert , Rowley Daniel James
Published: August 2020

This is a field-based disguised case which describes how a small family business deals with small business management, leadership, and subcontractor supervision. The problem for the owners is how to deal with their work foreman’s inability to manage the work of their subcontractors so that homes pass inspection and are built in a timely manner. The case has a difficulty level appropriate for a junior level course in small business, principles of management, or organizational behavior. The case is designed to be taught in one class period and is expected to require between three to six hours of outside student preparation.
A Multi-Semester Comparison of Student Performance between Multiple Traditional and Online Sections of Two Management Courses
Authors: Friday Earnest , Friday-Stroud Shawnta S. , Green Anna L. , Hill Aretha Y.
Published: August 2020

This multi-semester (eight semesters), multi-course study compared student performance in undergraduate online and traditional sections of “Organization and Management” with sample sizes of 380 and 213, respectively. Concurrent online and traditional sections of “Strategic Management” courses with sample sizes of 298 and 456, respectively, were also comparatively analyzed. Similar to previous research (Borthick & Jones, 2000; Gagne & Shepherd, 2001; Piccoli, Ahman, Ives, 2001), this study found no statistically significant difference in student performance between online and traditional classes in both management courses after examining eight semesters of data. However, this study found gender differences with both management courses.
Frecuencia de helmintos gastrointestinales en roedores sinantrópicos capturados en el Zoológico de Barranquilla
Authors: Romero-Herrera Johan , Henao-Montoya Lina , Guimarães-Riva Henrique , Jaimes-Dueñez Jeiczon Elim
Published: August 2020

Objetivo: el objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar la prevalencia y caracterización de parásitos gastrointestinales en roedores sinantrópicos que habitan en el Zoológico de Barranquilla. Metodología: para la captura de los roedores se establecieron un total de 55 puntos de muestreo en los cuales se utilizaron trampas Tomahawk con ayuda de cebos no tóxicos. Las técnicas realizadas para el diagnóstico e identificación de parásitos gastrointestinales fueron el examen directo, flotación y sedimentación. Resultados: un total de 34 roedores (Rattus rattus) fueron capturados durante el período de estudio, en los cuales la prevalencia de infección fue del 82.4% (28/34). Dentro de los diagnósticos realizados en los animales positivos, los parásitos encontrados con mayor frecuencia fueron los nematodos (31/49), seguido de los protozoos (10/49) y cestodos (8/49), respectivamente. Dentro de los nematodos, la familia encontrada con mayor frecuencia fue la Strongylidae (24/31), seguida de la Ascarididae (4/31), Ancylostomatidae (1/31), Oxyuridae (1/31) y Trichostrongylidae (1/31), respectivamente; para el caso de los protozoos, fueron la Eimeriidae (6/10) y Entamoebidae (4/10), mientras para los cestodos fue la Hymenolepididae (8/8). Conclusión: se pudo observar que la especie R. rattus fue la única especie de roedor sinantrópico identificada en el Zoológico de Barranquilla, la cual al encontrarce infectada por diversas especies de parásitos gastrointestinales debe ser considerada un factor de riesgo para la transmisión de estas infecciones hacia personas y animales en el zoológico.
Evaluation of an Adaptive Implementation Program for Cognitive Adaptation Training for People With Severe Mental Illness: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: van Dam Michelle Thalia , van Weeghel Jaap , Castelein Stynke , Pijnenborg Gerdina Hendrika Maria , van der Meer Lisette
Published: August 2020

Background

Cognitive Adaptation Training is a psychosocial intervention that focuses on reducing the negative effects of cognitive disorders, especially executive functions such as planning and targeted action. International research has shown that Cognitive Adaptation Training enhances multiple aspects of daily functioning in people with severe mental illnesses. Despite this evidence, implementation of the intervention into routine care remains a challenge.

Objective

In this implementation research, a newly developed implementation program based on previous experience and scientific literature, is tested. The primary aim of this research is to assess the effectiveness of the implementation program. The secondary aim of this study is to evaluate the factors that impede or facilitate the implementation of Cognitive Adaptation Training.

Methods

To test the effectiveness of the implementation program, a multicenter cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted comparing the implementation program to a single training program in four mental health institutions in The Netherlands. Focus groups, semistructured interviews, and questionnaires were used at multiple levels of service delivery (service user, professional, team, organization) to identify factors that may hamper or facilitate implementation. The RE-AIM framework was applied to measure the implementation effectiveness. Following this framework, the primary outcomes were Reach, Intervention Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance. These are assessed before, during, and after implementation. The research had a total duration of 14 months, with a follow-up measurement at 14 months. Data will be analyzed using multilevel modeling.

Results

The study was funded in April 2018. Data collection occurred between November 2018 and January 2020. In total, 21 teams of 4 mental health institutions agreed to participate. Data analysis is ongoing and results are expected to be published in December 2020.

Conclusions

This implementation research may provide important information about the implementation of psychosocial interventions in practice and may result in a program that is useful for Cognitive Adaptation Training, and possibly for psychosocial interventions in general.

Trial Registration

The Netherlands Trial Register (NL7989); https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7989.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/17412
Google Trends Insights Into Reduced Acute Coronary Syndrome Admissions During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Infodemiology Study
Authors: Senecal Conor , Gulati Rajiv , Lerman Amir
Published: August 2020

Background

During the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, a reduction in the presentation of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has been noted in several countries. However, whether these trends reflect a reduction in ACS incidence or a decrease in emergency room visits is unknown. Using Google Trends, queries for chest pain that have previously been shown to closely correlate with coronary heart disease were compared with searches for myocardial infarction and COVID-19 symptoms.

Objective

The current study evaluates if search terms (or topics) pertaining to chest pain symptoms correlate with the reported decrease in presentations of ACS.

Methods

Google Trends data for search terms “chest pain,” “myocardial infarction,” “cough,” and “fever” were obtained from June 1, 2019, to May 31, 2020. Related queries were evaluated for a relationship to coronary heart disease.

Results

Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, chest pain searches increased in all countries studied by at least 34% (USA P=.003, Spain P=.007, UK P=.001, Italy P=.002), while searches for myocardial infarction dropped or remained unchanged. Rising searches for chest pain included “coronavirus chest pain,” “home remedies for chest pain,” and “natural remedies for chest pain.” Searches on COVID-19 symptoms (eg, cough, fever) rose initially but returned to baseline while chest pain–related searches remained elevated throughout May.

Conclusions

Search engine queries for chest pain have risen during the pandemic as have related searches with alternative attribution for chest pain or home care for chest pain, suggesting that recent drops in ACS presentations may be due to patients avoiding the emergency room and potential treatment in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evaluation of an Adaptive Implementation Program for Cognitive Adaptation Training for People With Severe Mental Illness: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: van Dam Michelle Thalia , van Weeghel Jaap , Castelein Stynke , Pijnenborg Gerdina Hendrika Maria , van der Meer Lisette
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Cognitive Adaptation Training is a psychosocial intervention that focuses on reducing the negative effects of cognitive disorders, especially executive functions such as planning and targeted action. International research has shown that Cognitive Adaptation Training enhances multiple aspects of daily functioning in people with severe mental illnesses. Despite this evidence, implementation of the intervention into routine care remains a challenge.

OBJECTIVE

In this implementation research, a newly developed implementation program based on previous experience and scientific literature, is tested. The primary aim of this research is to assess the effectiveness of the implementation program. The secondary aim of this study is to evaluate the factors that impede or facilitate the implementation of Cognitive Adaptation Training.

METHODS

To test the effectiveness of the implementation program, a multicenter cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted comparing the implementation program to a single training program in four mental health institutions in The Netherlands. Focus groups, semistructured interviews, and questionnaires were used at multiple levels of service delivery (service user, professional, team, organization) to identify factors that may hamper or facilitate implementation. The RE-AIM framework was applied to measure the implementation effectiveness. Following this framework, the primary outcomes were Reach, Intervention Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance. These are assessed before, during, and after implementation. The research had a total duration of 14 months, with a follow-up measurement at 14 months. Data will be analyzed using multilevel modeling.

RESULTS

The study was funded in April 2018. Data collection occurred between November 2018 and January 2020. In total, 21 teams of 4 mental health institutions agreed to participate. Data analysis is ongoing and results are expected to be published in December 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

This implementation research may provide important information about the implementation of psychosocial interventions in practice and may result in a program that is useful for Cognitive Adaptation Training, and possibly for psychosocial interventions in general.

CLINICALTRIAL

The Netherlands Trial Register (NL7989); https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7989.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/17412