bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphofunctional status dynamics of female athletes who had COVID-19 during training in the middle altitude
Authors: Koryagina Yuliya V. , Nopin Sergey V. , Ter-Akopov Gukas N. , Abutalimova Sabina M.
Published: February 2023

Objective: to examine the morphofunctional status dynamics of female athletes who had COVID-19 during training in the middle altitude. Materials and methods. The study of the morphofunctional status was conducted in the beginning and at the end of training camps in Kislovodsk at an altitude of 1240 meters. It included 78 elite female athletes during the preparatory period of the training process. We have identified the initial level and dynamics of the functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, heart rate variability and body composition. We have also carried out a questionnaire of the state and collected medical background about the COVID-19. Results. According to the data obtained, training in the middle attitude did not significantly influence the morphofunctional status of female athletes, both who had and who did not have COVID-19. All indicators were within physiological standards. The functional state dynamics of athletes was mostly connected to the response to mountain hypoxia, which in higher degree is shown in athletes with the third type of the heart rate autonomic regulation. The athletes who were ill with COVID-19 were slightly different (within normal limits) from those who were not in terms of body composition indicators, expiratory volume and rate, as well as blood pressure. The systemic analysis has demonstrated that the factor-based structure of variables of the morphofunctional status of female athletes who were ill with COVID is described with an increased correlation connection between structural and functional indicators, stress of the body’s adaptation. Conclusion. Despite the seemingly favorable morphofunctional status of female athletes, who had COVID-19, in terms of systemic connections it is still characterized with an emergency transitional process of adaptation, during which complication of various diseases is possible. It should be noted by working doctors in sports medicine and coaches working with athletes, especially in the middle altitude conditions.
Bio-based activated carbon from husk- and wood-based biomass: comparison of carbon activation methods on organic pollutants removal
Authors: Tomin Oleksii , Yazdani Maryam Roza
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effect of different activations on the properties of bio-based activated carbons (BACs) for water treatment. BACs were produced via pyrolysis by the carbonization stage and were followed by four different activation procedures. Chemical activation included the introduction of metal oxides or alkali on the structure of the sawdust-derived BACs, resulting in iron-activated carbon (BAC-Fe), copper-activated carbon (BAC-Cu), and sodium-activated carbon (BAC-Na). The physical activation was conducted in a CO2 environment with the usage of two types of locally available biomasses, resulting in husk-activated carbon (HAC) and wood-activated carbon (WAC). Depending on the activation, BACs can be developed with high porosity, active sites, and different additional functionalities such as antimicrobial and magnetic. The adsorption of natural organic matter (NOM) with chemically activated BACs yielded high removal percentages (97, 87, and 80% for BAC-Fe, BAC-Cu, and BAC-Na, respectively). The physically activated BACs demonstrated high adsorption capacities for dye – 278 mg/g for WAC and 213 mg/g for HAC. This outlines a wide range of BAC production possibilities with advanced functionalities.
Study of GIS-based groundwater potential zones for agricultural sustainability in the arid region
Authors: Memon Aneela Hameem , Soomro Abdul Ghani , Panhwar Sallahuddin , Ahmed Keerio Hareef , Khokhar Naddar Hussain , Bajkani Jumo Khan , Siddiqui Sabeen , Gadehi Mumtaz Ali
Published: February 2023

The cluster-wise area of shallow and deep aquifer zones is used to estimate the potential of groundwater. The potential of the shallow aquifer zone is estimated at 4.61 MCM (million cubic meters) and for the deep aquifer zone at 17,509.03 MCM, while the total groundwater potential for both aquifer zones is estimated at 17,513.64 MCM. The Geographical Information System (GIS) was employed efficiently to estimate the subsurface volume of the lithological rock layers using cost-effective and time-saving techniques, while the Rockwork software integrated with GIS was successfully used to visualize the subsurface lithology and stratigraphy of the aquifer zones. The estimated potential of groundwater can be uncovered by using the alternative solar pumping system to improve the agricultural system in the study area, thereby reducing the migration rate, reducing poverty, and improving the socio-economic conditions of livelihood. In the future, too, it will be essential to design water quality studies to ensure the proper use of groundwater.
Peptide-based Self-assembly: Design, Bioactive Properties, and Its Applications
Authors: Diao He , Lu Yunhua , Ling Yun , Shen Yingjie , Yu Jingmou , Ma Kun
Published: February 2023

The self-assembly of peptides is very popular in biomedical fields. Peptide-based assemblies have
been used as an ideal candidate for drug/gene delivery, tissue engineering, and antibacterial/anticancer agents.
The morphology and structure of peptide self-assembly can be changed by altering the molecular structure and
the self-assembly conditions. Engineering peptide assemblies present great potential in medical fields. In this review,
the structure and function of peptide self-assembly have been described. Also, the advances in peptide-
based self-assembly have been highlighted in biomedical applications, such as drug packaging and delivery,
tissue engineering, antibacterial agents, siRNA-targeted delivery and vaccines. Moreover, the challenges
and future perspectives of the self-assembly of polypeptides are discussed.
Tetramethylpyrazine Attenuates Oxygen-glucose Deprivation-induced Neuronal Damage through Inhibition of the HIF-1α/BNIP3 Pathway: from Network Pharmacological Finding to Experimental Validation
Authors: Xu Shixin , Zhang Nannan , Cao Lanlan , Liu Lu , Deng Hao , Hua Shengyu , Zhang Yunsha
Published: February 2023

Aims:

A network pharmacological analysis combined with experimental validation was used to investigate the neuroprotective mechanism of the natural product Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP).

Background:

Protecting neurons is critical for acute ischemic stroke treatment. Tetramethylpyrazine is a bioactive component extracted from Chuanxiong. The neuroprotective potential of TMP has been reported, but a systematic analysis of its mechanism has not been performed.

Objective:

Based on the hints of network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis, the mechanism by which TMP alleviates oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced neuronal damage through inhibition of the HIF-1α/BNIP3 pathway was verified.

Methods:

In this study, we initially used network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses to elucidate the mechanisms involved in TMP's predictive targets on a system level. The HIF-1α/BNIP3 pathway mediating the cellular response to hypoxia and apoptosis was considered worthy of focus in the bioinformatic analysis. An oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced PC12 cell injury model was established for functional and mechanical validation. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase leakage, intracellular reactive oxygen species, percentage of apoptotic cells, and Caspase-3 activity were determined to assess the TMP's protective effects. Transfection with siRNA/HIF-1α or pcDNA/HIF-1α plasmids to silence or overexpress hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). The role of HIF-1α in OGD-injured cells was observed first. After that, TMP's regulation of the HIF-1α/BNIP3 pathway was investigated. The pcDNA3.1/HIF-1α-positive plasmids were applied in rescue experiments.

Results:

The results showed that TMP dose-dependently attenuated OGD-induced cell injury. The expression levels of HIF-1α, BNIP3, and the Bax/Bcl-2 increased significantly with increasing OGD duration. Overexpression of HIF-1α decreased cell viability, increased BNIP3 expression, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio; siRNA-HIF-1α showed the opposite effect. TMP treatment suppressed HIF-1α, BNIP3 expression, and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and was reversed by HIF-1α overexpression.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that TMP protects OGD-damaged PC12 cells by inhibiting the HIF-1α/BNIP3 pathway, which provides new insights into the mechanism of TMP and its neuroprotective potential.
Natural Cycloartane Triterpenoids from Corypha utan Lamk. with Anticancer
Activity towards P388 Cell Lines and their Predicted Interaction
with FLT3
Authors: Heliawati Leny , Kurnia Dikdik , Apriyanti Eti , Adinda Adrian Syah Putri Nabila , Lotebulo Ndruru Sun Theo Constan
Published: February 2023

Background:

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world. Leukemia is a
type of cancer that accounts for 31.5% of all cancers in children under the age of 15 in industrialized
countries and 15.7% in developing countries. The inhibition of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) is
a suitable approach for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) therapy as it is overexpressed in AML.

Aim and Objective:

This study intends to explore the natural constituents from the bark of Corypha
utan Lamk., and assess their cytotoxicity on murine leukemia cell lines (P388) in addition to
predicting their interaction with FLT3 as a studied target by computational methods.

Methods:

Compounds 1 and 2 were isolated from Corypha utan Lamk using the stepwise radial
chromatography method. These compounds were assessed for their cytotoxicity against Artemia
salina using the BSLT and P388 cells and the MTT assay. The docking simulation was employed
to predict the possible interaction between triterpenoid and FLT3.

Results:

Isolation from the bark of C. utan Lamk. generated two triterpenoids, cycloartanol (1) and
cycloartanone (2). Based on the in vitro and in silico studies, both compounds were found to have anticancer
activity. The evaluation of cytotoxicity from this study reveals that cycloartanol (1) and cycloartanone
(2) could inhibit P388 cell growth (IC50 value at 102.6 and 110.0 μg/mL, respectively). The binding
energy of cycloartanone was -9.94 Kcal/mol with a Ki value of 0.051 μM, while the binding energy
and Ki value of cycloartanol (1) were found to be 8.76 Kcal/mol and 0.38 μM, respectively. These compounds
also demonstrate a stable interaction by forming hydrogen bonds with FLT3.

Conclusion:

Cycloartanol (1) and cycloartanone (2) exhibit potency as anticancer agents by inhibiting
P388 cells in vitro and the FLT3 gene in silico.
Effect of the Application of Exosome on Gastric Cancer
Authors: Peng Jing , Wu Yiwen , Deng Sijun , Cao Pu , Yang Wei , Gong Tingyi , Lei Xiaoyong , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2023

Gastric cancer is one of the most common and highest mortality rate cancers in the
world. Exosomes are vesicles secreted by cells carrying different types of molecules, such as protein
and RNA. Numerous studies have confirmed that exosomes are involved in various stages of
the occurrence and development of gastric cancer and play an important role. With the gradual development,
exosomes have been widely employed in the diagnosis and treatment of gastric cancer.
In this review, we have provided a basic overview of exosome, and discussed the role of exosome
in the occurrence, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance in gastric cancer. In addition,
we have emphasized the bright development prospect of exosome in the diagnosis and treatment
of gastric cancer. The data on the discovery, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of gastric
cancer are not particularly optimistic, but the discovery of exosome, applied in diagnosis and
treatment, provides a new and effective way to improve the survival rate of patients with gastric
cancer.
Current Perspectives on Paclitaxel: Focus on Its Production, Delivery and
Combination Therapy
Authors: Liu Yibin , Zhao Fenglan , Wang Qibao , Zhao Qingjie , Hou Guige , Meng Qingguo
Published: February 2023

Paclitaxel is an anticancer drug first isolated from the bark of the Pacific yew tree. It has
been widely used for the treatment of ovarian, breast, uterine and other cancers because of its low toxicity,
high efficiency and broad-spectrum anticancer activity, and it is considered to be one of the most
successful natural anticancer drugs available. Paclitaxel is a microtubule-targeting drug whose main
molecular mechanism is to disrupt microtubule dynamics and induce mitotic arrest and cell death. Despite
the many clinical successes of paclitaxel, the extraction of natural paclitaxel from Taxus species
has proven to be environmentally unsustainable and economically unviable. As a result, researchers
are constantly working to find innovative ways to meet society's need for this drug. Currently, many
methods, including artificial cultivation, microbial fermentation, chemical synthesis, and tissue and
cell culture, have been explored and developed to obtain paclitaxel. In addition, the poor water solubility
of paclitaxel has led to significant limitations in its clinical application. Conventional paclitaxel
formulations use Cremophor EL and ethanol to dissolve paclitaxel, which can lead to serious side effects.
In recent decades, a series of new nanotechnology-based paclitaxel dosage forms have been developed,
including albumin-bound paclitaxel, polymeric micellar paclitaxel, polymer-paclitaxel couples,
and liposome-encapsulated paclitaxel. These nanoformulations can significantly reduce the toxicity
of paclitaxel and greatly improve its anti-tumor efficiency. This paper reviews the development
of the production, dosage form and combination therapy of paclitaxel in recent years and presents an
outlook, with the aim of providing a theoretical basis and reference for further research on the production
and application of paclitaxel in the future.
Role of Human Papillomavirus in Various Cancers: Epidemiology, Screening
and Prevention
Authors: Ahmed Waqas , Zaib Sumera , Ullah Sami , Fatima Areej , Zaib Zainab , Haseeb Azam Muhammad Abdul , Umar Usama , Tariq Muhammad Umair , Aslam Rabia , Khan Imtiaz
Published: February 2023

It is estimated that viral infections contribute 15-20% of all human cancers. Several types
of human papillomaviruse (HPV) are related to the development of many cancer types and their
treatment. About 200 HPV viruses have been identified, and each type of virus is integrated with a
certain type of clinical lesions affecting the areas of skin and mucous membranes. Infections associated
with HPV are known to cause multiple cancer types such as uterine cancer, cervical, vaginal carcinoma,
and other varieties of carcinomas such as genital and oropharyngeal, penile, and short-lived
carcinomas. Most of the HPV types are considered as high-risk mutants that can provoke cervical
cancer in females in addition to significant contribution to other cancer types such as anogenital cancer
and tumor in head and neck regions. Among them, high risk human papilloma viruses (HR-HPV)
subtypes 16 and 18 play a major role in the etiology of cervical cancer worldwide. Although, cervical
cancer incidence and fatality rates vary greatly depending on geographical area, it is the leading cause
of mortality in women around the world. In addition, it is epidemiologically similar to a sexually
transmitted disease of low infectivity. In this review article, the association of HPV with different
types of cancers have been explained, but the main focus remains on cervical cancer.
Non-consumption of Meat and Health Status in Italy: 2013-2016 Snapshot
Authors: Barbadoro Pamela , Ponzio Elisa , D'Errico Matteo , Dolcini Jacopo , M. D’Errico Marcello
Published: February 2023

Background:

A large number of individuals around the world consider themselves to be vegetarians for many individual reasons, and the vegetarian diet appears very heterogeneous. The prevalence of vegetarianism varies widely around the world.

Objective:

This paper examined the variables associated with the non-consumption of meat and valued trends in the plant-based diet among Italian adults in relation to the level of self-perceived health in this category of people in 4 years (2013-2016).

Method:

Data were drawn from the survey “Aspects of daily life” conducted by the ISTAT (Istituto Nazionale di Statistica). We considered the data of the 2013-2016 editions to evaluate the trend and attitude of the Italian population towards the non-consumption of meat during 4 years and assessed trends in the plant-based diet among Italian adults in relation to the level of self-perceived health.

Results:

The results showed an increasing trend from 2013 to 2016. In statistical analysis, vegetarian status was associated to under the age of 45, having a high level of education, being mainly separated or divorced, being resident in the North-West regions, and with a poor self-perceived state of health. Furthermore, vegetarians had shown healthier lifestyles and lower risk factors for non-communicable diseases than non-vegetarians.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that despite perceiving a worse health status, the long-term health of vegetarians is good and may be better than that of comparable non-vegetarians for some conditions and diseases, such as Obesity and IHD. As for all types of diet, well-designed health educational interventions conveying information on correct eating behavior may significantly contribute to increasing the degree of perceived health.

conclusion:

The results suggest that despite perceiving a worse health status, the long-term health of vegetarians is good, and may be better than that of comparable non-vegetarians for some conditions and diseases such as obesity and IHD.

other:

As for all types of diet, well-designed health educational interventions conveying information on correct eating behavior may significantly contribute to increasing the degree of perceived health.
CT and MRI Findings of Solitary Extramedullary Plasmacytoma: A
Series of Ten Case Reports and Review of Literature
Authors: Ding Hao , Mo Zhi-qing , Xu Hua , Zhang You-ming , Yuan Wen-zhao , Zeng Zi-san
Published: February 2023

Objective:

The study aimed to analyze computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging
features of patients with solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma.

Results:

This study included both males (n = 8) and females (n = 2), with a median age of 48 (range
21-72 years old). The organs or anatomical structures involved were nasopharynx (n = 3), orbit (n = 1),
left tentorium (n = 1), nasal cavity and meatus (n = 2), small intestine and mesentery (n = 1), as well as
posterior thoracic wall (n = 2). The median maximum diameter of the tumors was 3.2 cm (range 0.8-
15.2 cm). The tumor shapes were round (n = 7), stripped (n = 1), irregular (n = 1), and nodular (n = 1).
The margin of the tumors was well-defined (n = 7) and partially well-defined (n = 3). There were 3
cases with bone destruction and 1 with a tissue invasion adjacent to the tumor, calcification (n = 1),
and cystic degeneration (n = 2). Enlarged tumoral vessels (n = 4) could also be observed. The CT attenuation
and MR signal intensity of tumors were heterogeneous (n = 4) and homogenous (n = 6). After
the injection of the contrast agent, marked (n = 5), mild (n = 1), mild to moderate (n = 1), and delayed
enhancement (n = 1) could be observed.

Conclusion:

A well-defined homogeneous solitary mass occurring at the head and neck with a marked
enhancement, an adjacent tissue invasion, enlarged tumoral vessels, and bone destruction can indicate
the diagnosis of solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma.
Longitudinal Association between L1 Trabecular Attenuation from Chest
Computed Tomography (CT) and Bone Mineral Density from Dualenergy
X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA)
Authors: Lim Jiyun , Oh Eunsun , Park Suyeon , Kim Hyun-Joo , Yoon Young Cheol , Nam Boda , Lee Eun Ji , Hwang Jiyoung , Jeong Jewon , Chang Yun-Woo
Published: February 2023

Background:

Many studies have shown that vertebral trabecular attenuation measured on
CT scan corresponds well to DXA results for bone mineral density. These studies were based on crosssectional
data. Hence, there were limitations in explaining the constantly changing vertebral trabecular
attenuation from CT and T-score from DXA over time.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the longitudinal association between the vertebral trabecular
attenuation measured on computed tomography (CT) and the T-score measured by dual-energy X-ray
absorptiometry (DXA).

Methods:

We performed a database search for 333 patients who underwent surgery for breast cancer,
preoperative treatment, and at least one follow-up chest CT and DXA from January, 2013 through
May, 2021. One musculoskeletal radiologist measured the mean vertebral trabecular attenuation of
lumbar vertebra 1(L1) on axial unenhanced images at the pedicle level by manually placing the region
of interest (ROI). DXA of the lumbar spine was performed, and the lowest T-score of the lumbar spine
was used for the analysis. We evaluated the association between L1 trabecular attenuation from chest
CT and T-score from DXA over time using the generalized estimating equations (GEE) model to analyze
longitudinal corrected data.

Results:

A total of 150 women (mean age, 52.4 ± 11.0 years) were included. There was a statistically
significant association between L1 trabecular attenuation from chest CT and T-score from DXA in the
unadjusted model (p < 0.001) and adjusted model (p < 0.001). T-score value increased by 0.172 (95%
confidence interval (CI): 0.145-0.200, p < 0.001) per 10 unit (HU) of L1 trabecular attenuation at time
= 0 in unadjusted model and by 0.173 (95% CI: 0.143-0.203, p < 0.001) in all adjusted model.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated that L1 attenuation from chest CT images was longitudinally associated
with T-score from DXA, and the degree of association appeared to be decreased over time in breast
cancer patients regardless of their medical condition.
Review of Research on Improved PID Control in Electro-hydraulic Servo
System
Authors: LI Jianying , Li Weidong , Liang Heng , Kong Lingbing
Published: February 2023

Background:

Proportional-integral-differential (PID) controller is widely used in the engineering
field because of its simple structure, high control accuracy, and easy operation. Different patented
PID control technologies have their own advantages, disadvantages, and application scenarios.

Objective:

By analyzing and discussing the improved PID control techniques in the electrohydraulic
servo system, some valuable conclusions have been drawn to predict the future research
and development of PID control techniques.

Methods:

The improved PID control techniques applied to electro-hydraulic servo systems are classified
into three categories: PID parameter tuning technology, PID parameter online adjustment
strategy and compound control strategy combined with PID algorithm.

Results:

By comparing the principles and characteristics of the above techniques, the advantages,
disadvantages and application scenarios of each are analyzed, and the further development of PID
control technology is discussed.

Conclusion:

Based on the characteristics of electro-hydraulic servo systems, the further combination
of the three types of technology can make up for the shortcomings of PID algorithms to form a
control strategy with high control accuracy, high robustness, and fast response speed.
Fangchinoline, an Extract of the Stephania tetrandra S. Moore Root, Promoted
Oxidative Stress-induced DNA Damage and Apoptosis and Inhibited Akt
Signaling in Jurkat T Cells
Authors: Xu Yubo , Shao Yanxiong , Li Chaoran , Miao Guojun
Published: February 2023

Background:

Fangchinoline (Fan) is extracted from traditional Chinese medicine (called Fangji), or the root of Stephania tetrandra Moore. Fangji is well-known
in Chinese medical literature for treating rheumatic diseases. Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is a rheumatic disease whose progression can be mediated
via CD4+ T cell infiltration.

Objective:

This study identifies the potential role of Fan in inducing apoptosis in Jurkat T cells.

Methods:

First, we explored the biological process (BP) associated with SS development by performing a gene ontology analysis of SS salivary gland-related
mRNA microarray data. The effect of Fan on Jurkat cells was investigated by analyzing the viability, proliferation, apoptosis, reactive oxygen
species (ROS) production, and DNA damage.

Results:

Biological process analysis showed that T cells played a role in salivary gland lesions in patients with SS, indicating the significance of T cell
inhibition in SS treatment. Viability assays revealed that the half-maximal inhibitory concentration of Fan was 2.49 μM in Jurkat T cells, while the
proliferation assay revealed that Fan had an inhibitory effect on the proliferation of Jurkat T cells. The results of the apoptotic, ROS, agarose gel
electrophoresis, and immunofluorescence assays showed that Fan induced oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and DNA damage in a dosedependent
manner.

Conclusion:

These results indicate that Fan could significantly induce oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and DNA damage and inhibit the proliferation of
Jurkat T cells. Moreover, Fan further enhanced the inhibitory effect on DNA damage and apoptosis by inhibiting the pro-survival Akt signal.
Challenges and Opportunities of the Use and Adoption of Telemedicine for Diabetes Care and Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond
Authors: Altabtabaei Rabab , Alhuwail Dari
Published: February 2023

Background

More than half of the world’s population deals with noncommunicable diseases causing premature death. Leveraging digital solutions like telemedicine, health care providers (HCPs) can provide medical care remotely. Yet, there is little known about the contextual challenges and opportunities of leveraging telemedicine solutions in varying socioeconomic and cultural contexts, including Kuwait.

Objective

The aims of this paper were as follows: (1) uncover the challenges and opportunities of adopting and using telemedicine for diabetes care and management from the viewpoints of HCPs and patients with diabetes; (2) explore nonfunctional requirements for telemedicine applications for diabetes care and management; and (3) offer recommendations to improve the adoption of telemedicine in Kuwait’s health care system for diabetes care and management.

Methods

Through semistructured interviews, this study employed a qualitative and exploratory design to uncover rich context-specific findings. Participants were recruited via social media platforms. The analysis followed a thematic analysis approach and used the framework method. Researchers used the “diffusion of innovation” model as a lens to guide the analysis and interpretation of the results.

Results

A total of 20 interviews were conducted—10 (50%) HCPs and 10 (50%) patients with diabetes. The participants were familiar with and interested in adopting telemedicine. Challenges included a lack of telemedicine infrastructure and how to increase patients’ technology awareness. Patients with diabetes mentioned that telemedicine would save time and effort. The participants suggested developing a secure, user-friendly telemedicine solution. They stated the importance of telemedicine during the pandemic, as many diabetes cases can be followed up online, which reduces virus spread and increases patients’ safety.

Conclusions

The findings from this study can give a better understanding of what HCPs and patients with diabetes need to accept the adoption of telemedicine in resource-rich countries like Kuwait. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the ways HCPs deliver medical care to patients and encouraged both HCPs and patients to explore the digital platform for continuous care and management of diabetes.

Conflicts of Interest

None declared.
Examining Rural and Urban Sentiment Difference in COVID-19–Related Topics on Twitter: Word Embedding–Based Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Yongtai , Yin Zhijun , Ni Congning , Yan Chao , Wan Zhiyu , Malin Bradley
Published: February 2023

Background

By the end of 2022, more than 100 million people were infected with COVID-19 in the United States, and the cumulative death rate in rural areas (383.5/100,000) was much higher than in urban areas (280.1/100,000). As the pandemic spread, people used social media platforms to express their opinions and concerns about COVID-19–related topics.

Objective

This study aimed to (1) identify the primary COVID-19–related topics in the contiguous United States communicated over Twitter and (2) compare the sentiments urban and rural users expressed about these topics.

Methods

We collected tweets containing geolocation data from May 2020 to January 2022 in the contiguous United States. We relied on the tweets’ geolocations to determine if their authors were in an urban or rural setting. We trained multiple word2vec models with several corpora of tweets based on geospatial and timing information. Using a word2vec model built on all tweets, we identified hashtags relevant to COVID-19 and performed hashtag clustering to obtain related topics. We then ran an inference analysis for urban and rural sentiments with respect to the topics based on the similarity between topic hashtags and opinion adjectives in the corresponding urban and rural word2vec models. Finally, we analyzed the temporal trend in sentiments using monthly word2vec models.

Results

We created a corpus of 407 million tweets, 350 million (86%) of which were posted by users in urban areas, while 18 million (4.4%) were posted by users in rural areas. There were 2666 hashtags related to COVID-19, which clustered into 20 topics. Rural users expressed stronger negative sentiments than urban users about COVID-19 prevention strategies and vaccination (P<.001). Moreover, there was a clear political divide in the perception of politicians by urban and rural users; these users communicated stronger negative sentiments about Republican and Democratic politicians, respectively (P<.001). Regarding misinformation and conspiracy theories, urban users exhibited stronger negative sentiments about the “covidiots” and “China virus” topics, while rural users exhibited stronger negative sentiments about the “Dr. Fauci” and “plandemic” topics. Finally, we observed that urban users’ sentiments about the economy appeared to transition from negative to positive in late 2021, which was in line with the US economic recovery.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates there is a statistically significant difference in the sentiments of urban and rural Twitter users regarding a wide range of COVID-19–related topics. This suggests that social media can be relied upon to monitor public sentiment during pandemics in disparate types of regions. This may assist in the geographically targeted deployment of epidemic prevention and management efforts.
Using Conversational AI to Facilitate Mental Health Assessments and Improve Clinical Efficiency Within Psychotherapy Services: Real-World Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Rollwage Max , Habicht Johanna , Juechems Keno , Carrington Ben , Stylianou Mona , Hauser Tobias U , Harper Ross
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Most mental health care providers face the challenge of increased demand for psychotherapy in the absence of increased funding or staffing. To overcome this supply-demand imbalance, care providers must increase the efficiency of service delivery.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we examined whether artificial intelligence (AI)–enabled digital solutions can help mental health care practitioners to use their time more efficiently, and thus reduce strain on services and improve patient outcomes.

METHODS

In this study, we focused on the use of an AI solution (Limbic Access) to support initial patient referral and clinical assessment within the UK’s National Health Service. Data were collected from 9 Talking Therapies services across England, comprising 64,862 patients.

RESULTS

We showed that the use of this AI solution improves clinical efficiency by reducing the time clinicians spend on mental health assessments. Furthermore, we found improved outcomes for patients using the AI solution in several key metrics, such as reduced wait times, reduced dropout rates, improved allocation to appropriate treatment pathways, and, most importantly, improved recovery rates. When investigating the mechanism by which the AI solution achieved these improvements, we found that the provision of clinically relevant information ahead of clinical assessment was critical for these observed effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results emphasize the utility of using AI solutions to support the mental health workforce, further highlighting the potential of AI solutions to increase the efficiency of care delivery and improve clinical outcomes for patients.
Monitoring air pollution and pulmonary function in asthmatic children by mobile applications
in COVID-19 pandemic (Preprint)
Authors: Lin Pei-Yu , Wang Jiu-Yao , Hwang Bing-Fang Hwang , Pawankar Ruby , Wang I-Jen
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Several public health measures were implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known about the real-time assessment of environmental exposure on the pulmonary function of asthmatic children.

OBJECTIVE

We developed a mobile phone application to capture real-time day-to-day dynamic air pollution changes during the pandemic

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted among 511 asthmatic children under visit at Taipei City Hospital from January 2016 to February 2022. Ambient air pollution PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, CO, and SO2, daily average temperature, and relative humidity are measured from 77 nearby air monitoring stations by linking to Global Positioning System (GPS)-based software. The outcome of pollutants' effect on peak expiratory flow meter (PEF) and asthma is measured by a smart peak flow meter from each patient or caregiver's phone for real-time assessment.

RESULTS

The lockdown (May 19th, 2021, to July 27th, 2021) was associated with decreased levels of all air pollutants aside from SO2 after adjusting for the year 2021. NO2 and SO2 were constantly associated with decreased levels of PEF across lag 0 to lag 2. PM10 was associated with lower levels of PEF at lag 0 (-0.44, 95%CI: -0.77 to -0.10, P=.030) and lag 2 (-0.39, 95%CI: -0.76 to -0.02, P=.023). CO was associated with decreased levels of PEF only at day 0 (-49.0, 95%CI: -77.97 to -18.33, P=.008) and at day 1 (-43.1, 95%CI: -71.81to -14.34, P=.099).

CONCLUSIONS

Using our developed smartphone apps, we identified that NO2, CO, and PM10 were higher at the pre-and post-COVID-19 lockdowns than during the lockdown. Our smartphone apps may be useful for collecting personal air pollution data and lung function, especially for asthmatic patients, and may guide protection against asthma attacks. It provides a new model for individualized care in the COVID era and beyond.
Design and Evaluation of Using Head-Mounted Virtual Reality for Learning Clinical Procedures: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lau Siew Tiang , Siah Rosalind Chiew Jiat , Dzakirin Bin Rusli Khairul , Loh Wen Liang , Yap John Yin Gwee , Ang Emily , Lim Fui Ping , Liaw Sok Ying
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

The capacity of health care professionals to perform clinical procedures safely and competently is crucial as it will directly impact patients’ outcomes. Given the ability of head-mounted virtual reality to simulate the authentic clinical environment, this platform should be suitable for nurses to refine their clinical skills for knowledge and skills acquisition. However, research on head-mounted virtual reality in learning clinical procedures is limited.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were (1) to describe the design of a head-mounted virtual reality system and evaluate it for education on clinical procedures for nursing students and (2) to explore the experience of nursing students using head-mounted virtual reality for learning clinical procedures and the usability of the system.

METHODS

This usability study used a mixed method approach. The stages included developing 3D models of the necessary instruments and materials used in intravenous therapy and subcutaneous injection procedures performed by nurses, followed by developing the procedures using the Unreal Engine (Epic Games). Questionnaires on the perception of continuance intention and the System Usability Scale were used along with open-ended questions.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine nursing students took part in this questionnaire study after experiencing the immersive virtual reality (IVR) intervention. Participants reported largely favorable game perception and learning experience. Mean perception scores ranged from 3.21 to 4.38 of a maximum score of 5, while the mean system usability score was 53.53 of 100. The majority found that the IVR experience was engaging, and they were immersed in the game. The challenges encountered included unfamiliarity with the new learning format; technological constraints, such as using hand controllers; and physical discomfort.

CONCLUSIONS

The conception of IVR for learning clinical procedures through deliberate practice to enhance nurses’ knowledge and skills is promising. However, refinement of the prototypes is required to improve user experience and learning. Future research can explore other ways to use IVR for better education and health care purposes.
Effects of physical exercise on telomere length in healthy adults: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression (Preprint)
Authors: Tejada-Garrido Clara Isabel , Sánchez-Rodríguez Juan Luis , Varela-Rodríguez Sergio , González-Sarmiento Rogelio , Rivera-Picón Cristina , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Martín-Vallejo Javier , Navarro-López Victor
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Physical exercise seems to have a beneficial effect on telomere length, however, the effects according to the type of exercise have not been studied in detail.

OBJECTIVE

a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to determine de effect of physical exercise in telomere length in heathy population.

METHODS

Data source: PUBMED, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science and SCOPUS from inception to September 2022 were searched to identify documents.
Study selection: Publications investigating the effect of physical exercise in telomere length.
Data extraction: data were extracted into predesigned data extraction and tables. Risk of bias was evaluated with the Cochrane Risk Of Bias Tool (Rob 2.0 and Robins II). 9 articles met inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Random-effects model analysis were used to quantify the difference in telomere length between exercise group and sham.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the current systematic review with meta-analysis suggest that high-intensity interval training seems to have a positive effect on telomere length compared to other types of exercise such as resistance training or aerobic exercise in a healthy population
A Web-Based Application for Risk Stratification and Optimization in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease: Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Pandey Avinash , D'Souza Marie Michelle , Pandey Amritanshu Shekhar , Mir Hassan
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

In addition to aspirin, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, statins, and lifestyle modification interventions, novel pharmacological agents have been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease patients, including new antithrombotics, antihyperglycemics, and lipid-modulating therapies. Despite their benefits, the uptake of these guideline-directed therapies remains a challenge. There is a need to develop strategies to support knowledge translation for the uptake of secondary prevention therapies.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to test the feasibility and usability of Stratification and Optimization in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease (STOP-CVD), a point-of-care application that was designed to facilitate knowledge translation by providing individualized risk stratification and optimization guidance.

METHODS

Using the REACH (Reduction of Atherothrombosis for Continued Health) Registry trial and predictive modeling (which included 67,888 patients), we designed a free web-based secondary risk calculator. Based on demographic and comorbidity profiles, the application was used to predict an individual’s 20-month risk of cardiovascular events and cardiovascular mortality and provides a comparison to an age-matched control with an optimized cardiovascular risk profile to illustrate the modifiable residual risk. Additionally, the application used the patient’s risk profile to provide specific guidance for possible therapeutic interventions based on a novel algorithm. During an initial 3-month adoption phase, 1-time invitations were sent through email and telephone to 240 physicians that refer to a regional cardiovascular clinic. After 3 months, a survey of user experience was sent to all users. Following this, no further marketing of the application was performed. Google Analytics was collected postimplementation from January 2021 to December 2021. These were used to tabulate the total number of distinct users and the total number of monthly uses of the application.

RESULTS

During the 1-year pilot, 47 of the 240 invited clinicians used the application 1573 times, an average of 131 times per month, with sustained usage over time. All 24 postimplementation survey respondents confirmed that the application was functional, easy to use, and useful.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot suggests that the STOP-CVD application is feasible and usable, with high clinician satisfaction. This tool can be easily scaled to support the uptake of guideline-directed medical therapy, which could improve clinical outcomes. Future research will be focused on evaluating the impact of this tool on clinician management and patient outcomes.
PELATIHAN PEMBUATAN MIKROORGANISME LOKAL DAN PEMANFAATANNYA SEBAGAI PUPUK ORGANIK CAIR DI KELOMPOK TANI HUTAN SUMBER AGUNG
Authors: Tsani Machya Kartika , Riniarti Melya , Indriyanto, Indriyanto, , Asmarahman Ceng
Published: February 2023

Pengelolaan tanaman budidaya menggunakan bahan kimia atau anorganik secara berkelanjutan dalam jangka waktu yang lama akan berakibat pada kerusakan tanah, tanaman dan lingkungan. Perlu upaya yang tepat untuk merubah kebiasaan penggunaan bahan kimia tersebut. Salah satu upaya yang diberikan yaitu melalui peningkatan pengetahuan dan keterampilan petani dalam pembuatan MOL yang digunakan sebagai pupuk organik penambah nutrisi tanaman agar lingkungan dapat terjaga dengan baik. Oleh karena itu tujuan pada kegiatan PKM ini yaitu memberikan pelatihan pembuatan MOL serta mengetahui cara pemanfaatannya sebagai pupuk organik cair. Khalayak sasaran kegiatan ini yaitu anggota KTH Sumber Agung. Kegiatan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat telah berjalan dengan baik. Terlihat adanya peningkatan pengetahuan dan keterampilan peserta dalam pembuatan MOL bonggol pisang dan mengetahui cara pemanfaatannya sebagai pupuk organik cair. Peserta memberikan antusiasme yang tinggi untuk merubah penggunaan pupuk kimia/anorganik menjadi pupuk organik yang dibuat menggunakan bahan-bahan di sekitar mereka yang mudah ditemukan. Pembuatan MOL yang cenderung tidak memerlukan banyak biaya dapat menghemat lebih banyak biaya pengolahan lahan.
PRESCRIPTION PATTERN, COST, AND APPROPRIATENESS OF ANTIMICROBIAL USE BY RURAL PRIVATE PRACTITIONERS - A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY
Authors: MISRA PIYUSH , TYAGI NEHA , UPADHYAY PRASHANT
Published: February 2023

Objectives: Antimicrobial consumption in India is continuously increasing, and so are the chances of the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. This present study intends to identify and assess the appropriateness of antimicrobials prescribed by rural private practitioners and the average cost of antimicrobials per prescription. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted by the Department of Pharmacology, Government Medical College, Jaulan (Orai). The study included all the prescriptions coming to the chemist shops in the rural town area, having one or more antimicrobials written by private practitioners and assessed for prescription pattern, appropriateness, and cost. Results: Most antimicrobials were prescribed for gastrointestinal infection (33.50%), followed by fever (27.70%). Only in 12.60% of prescriptions, the utilization of antimicrobials in treatment was established (Category I), and in 56.20% of prescriptions rationale for the utilization of antimicrobials was not established (Category IV and V). Conclusions: In the study, we found that the maximum antimicrobials prescribed in private settings were by doctors having only MBBS degrees, and more than half of the prescriptions were Inappropriate. More efforts are required to train our medical graduates in antimicrobial stewardship and Antibiotic Stewardship, Prevention of Infection and Control programs and nursing staff to make these programs successful at the ground level.
ANTIBACTERIAL AND ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY OF CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES - CAULIFLOWER, BROCCOLI
Authors: S SUNDAR , A JAYARAMI REDDY
Published: February 2023

Objectives: This work aims to analyze the antibacterial and antifungal activities of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower and broccoli.
Methods: Cruciferous vegetables act as a good source of natural antioxidants due to their high levels of carotenoids, tocopherols, and ascorbic acid. In this study, two cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower and broccoli, were selected for antibacterial and anti-fungal studies. The stems, flowers of cauliflower, and broccoli were extracted with 125 mL of ethanol and water by Soxhlet’s apparatus for 6 h. Mueller Hinton agar and Sabouraud’s dextrose agar medium were used for antibacterial and antifungal activity, respectively. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of each cauliflower, broccoli stem, and flower extract were determined using a modified Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Standard antibiotics, gentamicin (25 μg/mL), and fluconazole (25 μg/mL) served as positive controls for antibacterial and antifungal activity, respectively.
Results: Broccoli stem (100 μg/mL) ethanol extract produced higher antibacterial activity (13 mm) against Escherichia coli. Cauliflower, flower (100 μg/mL) ethanol extract produced higher antibacterial activity (13 mm) against Staphylococcus aureus. Broccoli flower (100 μg/mL) ethanol extract produced higher antifungal activity (14 mm) against Candida albicans. According to the results obtained from this project, broccoli stems and flower ethanol extracts show very good antibacterial activity against Gram-negative microorganisms such as E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Similarly, cauliflower, flower ethanol extract shows excellent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive microorganisms such as Bacillus subtilis and S. aureus.
Conclusion: Further analysis is recommended for the identification of active constituents responsible for these activities.