bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historicizing Feminism in Pakistan
Authors: Batool Syeda
Published: November 2020

This paper is historisization of feminism/feminist movement in Pakistan which has been influenced by national and global rearrangement of power, nationalism, dictatorship, democracy and the War on Terror (WoT). It presents the evolution and transformation of feminism in Pakistan since its inception; also gives an overview of the issues, challenges and achievements of the feminism and how it has evolved to its recent form passing through over seven decades of its journey. It also tries to address the question, where it goes from here, whether the feminist movement expands its scope, or shrivels into little niche pockets of identity-based resistance, is a question for the future. The article heavily relies on desk review of literature produced on feminism in Pakistan. Additionally, a qualitative research was carried out to explore subjectivities, realities, and opinions of women who have been part of feminist movement through in-depth interviews. The second part of in depth interviews included opponents of feminism both men and women belonging to religious right. A purposive and judgement sample was selected keeping in mind the research questions as well as consideration of research resources available. In-depth interviews method of inquiry of Feminist Research Methodology (FRM) was utilised to gain insights and opinions of preselected research participants.
Development of water basin pollution emission inventory: a preliminary literature review and Its implication for China
Authors: Zhao Shuchang , Liu Yi , Liu Yaxin , Gong Manli
Published: November 2020

The water pollution emission inventory is a fundamental decision-making tool that links emissions and water quality. However, accurately quantifying the emissions is challenging, due to the variety of contributing sources, complexity of methods for calibration and validation, and lack of moderate spatio-temporal resolution. Over the last two decades, tremendous efforts have been made to improve the accuracy of emission inventories, and significant improvements have been accomplished. This study summarizes the recent progress on inventory development, by recapping the sector-based configurations and associated coefficient databases. Subsequently, we highlight the calculation, validation, and spatio-temporal resolution of emissions contained in the present inventories. Finally, we suggest future directions for conducting a systematic procedure and further improving the accuracy of emission inventories.
Evaluating drought risk in data-scarce contexts. The case of southern Angola
Authors: Limones Natalia , Marzo-Artigas Javier , Wijnen Marcus , Serrat-Capdevila Aleix
Published: November 2020

This paper pursues a methodological objective, developing and validating a structured approach for the recognition of areas under the highest levels of drought risk, suitable for data-scarce environments. The approach is based on recent scientific outcomes and methods and can be easily adapted to different contexts in subsequent exercises. The research reviews the history of hydro-meteorological drought in the south of Angola and characterizes the experienced hazard in the episode from 2012. Also, it intends to portray the socioeconomic vulnerabilities and the exposure to the phenomenon in the region to fully comprehend the risk. A list and map of these areas at high risk are two of the main outputs of this work. The results demonstrate that most of the region experienced a severe multi-year meteorological drought that was intensifying at the time of writing this paper, and that the majority of its impacts started immediately after the rainfall anomalies appeared. Last, the study confirms that the set of indicators used reveals different facets of vulnerability, leading to different drought vulnerability profiles in the south of Angola and, consequently, to several varieties of priority areas prone to distinctive impacts.
Identification and inactivation of Gordonia, a new chlorine-resistant bacterium isolated from a drinking water distribution system
Authors: Lu Nannan , Sun Shaohua , Chu Fumin , Wang Mingquan , Zhao Qinghua , Shi Jinmiao , Jia Ruibao
Published: November 2020

Chlorine-resistant bacteria threaten drinking water safety in water distribution systems. In this study, a novel chlorine-resistant bacterium identified as Gordonia was isolated from the drinking water supply system of Jinan City for the first time. We examined the resistance and inactivation of the isolate by investigating cell survival, changes in cell morphology, and the permeability of cell membranes exposed to chlorine. After 240 min chlorine exposure, the chlorine residual was greater than 0.5 mg L−1 and the final inactivation was about 3 log reduction, which showed that the Gordonia strain had high chlorine tolerance. Flow-cytometric analysis indicated that, following sodium hypochlorite treatments with increasing membrane permeability, culturable cells enter a viable but nonculturable state and then die. We also investigated the inactivation kinetics of Gordonia following chlorine dioxide and ultraviolet radiation treatment. We found that these treatments can effectively inactivate Gordonia, which suggests that they may be used for the regulation of chlorine-resistant microorganisms.
Effect of lockdown on wastewater characteristics: a comparison of two large urban areas
Authors: Pons Marie-Noëlle , Louis Pauline , Vignati Davide
Published: November 2020

The effect of the lockdown imposed to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in France between March 14 and May 11, 2020 on the wastewater characteristics of two large urban areas (with between 250,000 and 300,000 inhabitants) was studied. The number of outward and inward daily commuters was extracted from national census databases related to the population and their commuting habits. For urban area A, with the larger number of daily inward commuters (110,000, compared to 53,000 for B), lockdown was observed to have an effect on the monthly load averages of chemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, total suspended solids and total phosphorus, all of which decreased (confidence level of 95%). This decrease, which varied between 20% and 40% and reached 45% for COD, can be related to the cessation of catering and activities such as hairdressing, which generate large amounts of graywater. The ammonium loads, due to the use of toilets before leaving for work and after returning from work, remained constant. In the case of urban area B, lockdown had no noticeable effect. More data would be necessary in the long term to analyze the effect of changes in the balance between ammonia and carbon sources on the operation of wastewater treatment plants.
Dynamic change in particulate palladium concentrations in a mangrove wetland water environment and its mechanism in Dongzhai Harbor, China
Authors: Ji Caiye , Liu Yuyan , Wu Dan , Fu Bo , Wang Lin , Zhang Lan
Published: November 2020

Palladium (Pd), in platinum group elements (PGEs), is widely used as a catalyst in vehicle exhaust catalytic converters (VECs). The cumulative level of Pd in the environment is growing rapidly, and the potential threat to human health is increasing. In this paper, the mangrove wetland in Dongzhai Harbor, Hainan Province, China, was taken as the research area for the collection of water samples. The particulate Pd was determined by microwave digestion and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The particulate Pd showed a decreasing trend from the estuary to offshore. The land origin of Pd in the mangrove wetland was explained. The Pd concentrations in the suspended state were lower in the wet season than in the dry season. Tide had an obvious influence on particulate Pd. The concentrations of particulate Pd at spring tide were higher than those at neap tide. The concentrations of particulate Pd at ebb tide were higher than those at flood tide. The rainfall intensity also had a strong influence on the particulate Pd. The particulate Pd increased after moderate and light rain but decreased after heavy rain. The pH, redox potential(Eh), and Cl− had little effect on particulate Pd in the water environment. This study is helpful for understanding the environmental geochemical characteristics of Pd in mangrove wetlands and provides a theoretical basis for the study of Pd in urban coastal mangrove environment.
The Effect of Kinesiophobia on Quality of Life and Shoulder Functionality in Painful Shoulder Pathologies
Authors: ŞAHBAZ PİRİNÇÇİ Cansu , CİHAN Emine , ARCA Muhammed , DURMAZ Elif Dilara , ÜN YILDIRIM Necmiye
Published: November 2020

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between kinesiophobia and quality of life and shoulder functionality in patients with painful shoulder pathologies.
Materials and Methods: Physical and sociodemographic data of the patients participating in the study were recorded. The resting and activity pain associated with the disease was evaluated with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Shoulder active joint range of motion was evaluated with a universal goniometer. Kinesiophobia level was evaluated by Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale (TKÖ), Turkish version of life quality Nottingham Health Profile (NSP), shoulder functions were evaluated by Simple Shoulder Test (SST). Spearman's correlation analysis was used for statistical analysis and p <0.05 was accepted.
Results: The study was completed with 120 participants (age: 48.65 ± 14.11 years; BMI: 26.58 ± 5.44 kg / m2).42 frozen shoulders (35%), 34 rotator cuffs (28.3%), 16 impingments (13.3%), 11 humerus fractures (9.2%), 4 dislocations (3.3%), 2 bankart lesions ( 1.7%), 1 patient with acromioclavicular separation (0.8%) participated in the study.Rest pain was 4.56 ± 3.14 and activity pain was 7.71 ± 2.49.A moderate correlation was found between the kinesiophobia score and NSP pain (p = 0,000, r = 0.414), NSP sensory (p = 0,000, r = 0.535), and NSP total score (p = 0,000, r = 0.511).There was a weak correlation between kinesiophobia and other NSP subparameters (sleep, socialisolation, activity, energy), SST subparameters (pain, dailyactivity, strength) and SST total score, activity pain, external rotation.No relation was found between resting pain, shoulder flexion, extension, adduction, abduction, internal rotation and kinesiophobia (p> 0.05).
Conclusion: Kinesiophobia, which occurs due to painful movement in shoulder pathologies, causes patients to become inadequate in their daily life activities, and the low quality of life brought by this situation causes patients to fight both physical and psychological factors.
Birinci Basamak Sağlık Kuruluşuna Başvuranlarda Sağlık Okuryazarlığı ile Kanser Bilgi Yükü İlişkisi
Authors: DEĞER Mehmet Sait , ZOROĞLU Gülsüm
Published: November 2020

Amaç: Bireyin sağlık okuryazarlığı düzeyi sağlıkla ilgili bilgiyi elde etme, anlama, değerlendirme süreçlerini ve sağlık hizmetlerini kullanımını etkiler. Bu çalışmada Bingöl Merkez Aile Sağlığı Merkezlerine başvuran 18 yaş üstü bireylerde sağlık okuryazarlığı ile kanser bilgi yükü arasındaki ilişkinin ortaya çıkarılması amaçlanmıştır.

Gereç ve Yöntemler: Araştırma Bingöl Merkez Aile Sağlığı Merkezlerinde, 18 yaş üstü 297 kişiyle yürütülmüş kesitsel tipte bir çalışmadır. Anket sosyo-demografik özellikler, ‘Türkiye Sağlık Okuryazarlığı Ölçeği (TSOY-32)’ ve ‘Kanser Bilgi Yükü Ölçeği’ olmak üzere üç bölümden oluşmaktadır.

Bulgular: Katılımcıların yaş ortalaması 32,67±9,61 bulunmuştur. Katılımcıların %56,1’i kadın, %65,5’i evli, %78,5’i lise ve üstü eğitim düzeyinde, %87,9’u il merkezinde yaşamakta ve %19,2’si hiç fiziksel aktivite yapmamaktadır. Katılımcıların sağlık okuryazarlığı düzeyi; %16,8 yetersiz, %25,6 sorunlu, %35,4 yeterli ve %22,2 mükemmel bulunmuştur. Fiziksel olarak aktif olanların kanser bilgi yükü daha az bulunmuştur (p<0,05). Sağlık okuryazarlığı indeks puanı ile kanser bilgi yükü toplam puanı arasında negatif yönlü zayıf bir ilişki (Spearman’s Korelasyon Katsayısı: -0,388 ve p <0,01) tespit edilmiştir.

Sonuç: Katılımcıların %57,6’sının sağlık okuryazarlığı düzeyi yeterli ve mükemmel seviyede bulunmuştur. Sağlık okuryazarlığı düzeyi arttıkça kanser bilgi yükü azalmaktadır.
Colonialidade da educação escolar
Authors: Ramalho Bárbara , Alvarez Leite Lúcia Helena
Published: November 2020

A reivindicação do acesso à educação escolar sob o imaginário do desenvolvimento dos sujeitos e da nação é uma narrativa fortemente presente na sociedade brasileira. Sob as teorias anticoloniais, o presente artigo se propõe a examinar este discurso e, a partir disso, a delinear o conceito de colonialidade da educação escolar. Para tanto, realizaremos, em primeiro lugar, uma contextualização das abordagens que se dedicam à interpretação do sistema-mundo tendo como referência os eventos de dominação de sujeitos, culturas e territórios inaugurado entre os séculos XV e XVI e, sob este enfoque, nos dedicaremos à discussão teórica relativamente à educação escolar. Por fim, com vistas a identificarmos aspectos da vigência da colonialidade no contexto educacional, analisaremos excertos de entrevistas e  registros em caderno de campo derivados de uma pesquisa de doutorado recentemente concluída. As discussões realizadas no artigo nos levam a concluir que a garantia do direito à educação de fato para todos está condicionada à descolonização da escola, sua cultura e práticas.
Intracellular Calcium Homeostasis and Kidney Disease
Authors: Song Na , Yang Ming , Zhang Hao , Yang Shi-kun
Published: November 2020

Kidney disease is a serious health problem that burdens our healthcare system.
It is crucial to find the accurate pathogenesis of various types of kidney disease to provide
guidance for precise therapies for patients suffering from these diseases. However,
the exact molecular mechanisms underlying these diseases have not been fully understood.
Disturbance of calcium homeostasis in renal cells plays a fundamental role in the
development of various types of kidney disease, such as primary glomerular disease, diabetic
nephropathy, acute kidney injury and polycystic kidney disease, through promoting
cell proliferation, stimulating extracellular matrix accumulation, aggravating podocyte injury,
disrupting cellular energetics as well as dysregulating cell survival and death dynamics.
As a result, preventing the disturbance of calcium homeostasis in specific renal cells
(such as tubular cells, podocytes and mesangial cells) is becoming one of the most
promising therapeutic strategies in the treatment of kidney disease. The endoplasmic
reticulum and mitochondria are two vital organelles in this process. Calcium ions cycle
between the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria at the conjugation of these two organelles
known as the mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane, maintaining
calcium homeostasis. The pharmacologic modulation of cellular calcium homeostasis
can be viewed as a novel therapeutic method for renal diseases. Here, we will introduce
calcium homeostasis under physiological conditions and the disturbance of calcium
homeostasis in kidney diseases. We will focus on the calcium homeostasis regulation in
renal cells (including tubular cells, podocytes and mesangial cells), especially in the mitochondria-
associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes of these renal cells.
Dysregulation of HOX as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Ji-Yeon , Kim Myoung Hee
Published: November 2020

HOX genes belong to the highly conserved homeobox superfamily, responsible
for the regulation of various cellular processes that control cell homeostasis, from embryogenesis
to carcinogenesis. The abnormal expression of HOX genes is observed in
various cancers, including breast cancer, where they act as oncogenes or as suppressors
of cancer, according to context. In this review, we analyze HOX gene expression patterns
in breast cancer and examine their relationship, based on the three-dimensional genome
structure of the HOX locus. The presence of non-coding RNAs embedded within the
HOX cluster and the role of these molecules in breast cancer, have been reviewed. We
further evaluate the characteristic activity of HOX protein in breast cancer and its therapeutic
potential.
Biological and Pharmacological Effects of Gamma-oryzanol: An Updated Review of the Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Ramazani Elham , Akaberi Maryam , Emami Seyed Ahmad , Tayarani-Najaran Zahra
Published: November 2020

Background:

Gamma-oryzanol (γ-oryzanol) is one of the rice bran oil (RBO) compounds, known as
a principal food source throughout the world. In recent numerous experimental studies, γ-oryzanol has been revealed
to have several useful pharmacological properties, such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer,
anti-diabetic, ameliorating unpleasant menopausal symptoms, cholesterol-lowering, improving plasma lipid pattern,
etc.

Methods:

In this study, we reviewed the scientific literature published up until 2020, which has evaluated the
biological and pharmacological activity of gamma-oryzanol. This review summarizes the published data found
in PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus.

Results and Conclusion:

The present review attempts to summarize the most related articles about the pharmacological
and therapeutic potential from recent studies on γ-oryzanol to gain insights into design further studies
to achieve new evidence that confirm the observed effects.
Steroid-resistant Nephrotic Syndrome in Children: A Mini-review on Genetic Mechanisms, Predictive Biomarkers and Pharmacotherapy Strategies
Authors: Guo Hong-Li , Li Ling , Xu Ze-Yue , Jing Xia , Xia Ying , Qiu Jin-Chun , Ji Xing , Chen Feng , Xu Jing , Zhao Fei
Published: November 2020

Steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) constitutes the second most frequent cause of chronic
kidney disease in childhood. The etiology of SRNS remains largely unknown and no standardized treatment exists.
Recent advances in genomics have helped to build understanding of the molecular mechanisms and pathogenesis
of the disease. The genetic polymorphisms in genes encoding proteins which are involved in the pharmacokinetics
and pharmacodynamics of glucocorticoids (GCs) partially account for the different responses between
patients with nephrotic syndrome. More importantly, single-gene causation in podocytes-associated proteins was
found in approximately 30% of SRNS patients. Some potential biomarkers have been tested for their abilities to
discriminate against pediatric patients who are sensitive to GCs treatment and patients who are resistant to the
same therapy. This article reviews the recent findings on genetic mechanisms, predictive biomarkers and current
therapies for SRNS with the goal to improve the management of children with this syndrome.
Exploring the Potential Mechanism of Shufeng Jiedu Capsule for Treating COVID-19 by Comprehensive Network Pharmacological Approaches and Molecular Docking Validation
Authors: Zhuang Zhenjie , Zhong Xiaoying , Zhang Huanhuan , Chen Huiqi , Huang Boxiang , Lin Dongqun , Wen Junmao
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Shufeng Jiedu capsule (SFJDC) is a well-known Chinese patent drug that is recommended as a basic
prescription and applied widely in the clinical treatment of COVID-19. However, the exact molecular mechanism of SFJDC
remains unclear. The present study aims to determine the potential pharmacological mechanisms of SFJDC in the treatment
of COVID-19 based on network pharmacology.

Methods:

The network pharmacology-based strategy includes collection and analysis of active compounds and target genes,
network construction, identification of key compounds and hub target genes, KEGG and GO enrichment, recognition and
analysis of main modules, as well as molecule docking.

Results:

A total of 214 active chemical compounds and 339 target genes of SFJDC were
collected. Of note, 5 key compounds (β -sitosterol, luteolin, kaempferol, quercetin, and
stigmasterol) and 10 hub target genes (TP53, AKT1, NCOA1, EGFR, PRKCA, ANXA1,
CTNNB1, NCOA2, RELA and FOS) were identified based on network analysis. The hub target
genes mainly enriched in pathways including MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling
pathway and cAMP signaling pathway, which could be the underlying pharmacological
mechanisms of SFJDC for treating COVID-19. Moreover, the key compounds had high binding
activity with three typical target proteins including ACE2, 2OFZ, and 1SSK.

Conclusions:

By network pharmacology analysis, SFJDC was found to effectively improve
immune function and reduce inflammatory responses based on its key compounds, hub target
genes, and the relevant pathways. These findings may provide valuable evidence for explaining
how SFJDC exerting the therapeutic effects on COVID-19, providing a holistic view for further
clinical application.
Morphological and Histopathological Study of Autopsied Patients with Atherosclerosis and HIV
Authors: Oliveira Mariana Silva , da Silva Torquato Bianca Gonçalves , Tsuji Simone Yumi , Aguiar Laura Sanches , Juliano Guilherme Ribeiro , da Silveira Luciano Alves Matias , Miranda Corrêa Rosana Rosa , Rocha Lenaldo Branco , da Fonseca Ferraz Mara Lúcia
Published: November 2020

Background:

Chronic infection by HIV evolves with a vascular inflammatory action causing endothelial dysfunction. The action of the virus, as well as the side effects of antiretroviral drugs, contribute to the progression of cardiovascular diseases. The present study aimed to evaluate the percentage of collagen fibers and the density of mast cells, chymase and tryptase, in aortas of patients with and without HIV, and also patients with and without atherosclerosis.

Methods:

Aortic fragments were obtained from autopsied patients aged 22-69 years and selected regardless of the cause of death or underlying disease. The samples were divided into four groups, (1) Group with HIV and with atherosclerosis; (2) Group with HIV and without atherosclerosis; (3) Group without HIV and with atherosclerosis; (4) Group without HIV and without atherosclerosis (Control). The percentage of collagen fibers was analyzed in the intima-media layer and the density of mast cells was analyzed in all aortic layers. Graphpad Prism 5.0® software was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

There were more collagen fibers in HIV patients, with or without atherosclerosis. The group with HIV and atherosclerosis presented a higher density of chymase and tryptase mast cells. The correlation between collagen fibers and age was negative in the non-HIV group and with atherosclerosis.

Conclusion:

The inflammatory process resulting from HIV infection may be relevant in the alteration of aortic collagen fibers and in triggering or accelerating atherosclerosis. The study is important because HIV patients have increased risks for the development of cardiovascular diseases, and follow-up is necessary to prevent such diseases.
Reactions in Activated Peroxide Systems and their Influences on Bleaching Performance
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Du Jinmei , Xu Changhai
Published: November 2020

Activated peroxide systems are formed by adding so-called bleach activators to an aqueous
solution of hydrogen peroxide, developed in the seventies of the last century for use in the domestic
laundry for their high energy efficiency and introduced at the beginning of the 21st century to the textile
industry as an approach toward overcoming the extensive energy consumption in bleaching. In activated
peroxide systems, bleach activators undergo perhydrolysis to generate more kinetically active peracids
that enable bleaching under milder conditions while hydrolysis of bleach activators and decomposition
of peracids may occur as side reactions to weaken the bleaching efficiency. This mini-review aims
to summarize these competitive reactions in activated peroxide systems and their influence on bleaching
performance.
A Rare Case of Ureteral Diverticulum Incidentally Detected During Angiography
Authors: Emekli Emre , Gündoğdu Elif , Özen Ata , Küçükay Fahrettin
Published: November 2020

Background:

A ureteral diverticulum (UD) is a rare urological malformation characterized
by the saccular enlargement of the ureteral wall. It can be of different sizes and in various localizations.
In the literature, three types of UD have been defined as abortive bifid ureter, congenital,
and acquired.

Case Report:

In a 65-year-old male patient, an enlargement was incidentally detected in the distal
part of the right ureter on fluoroscopy during the passage of the contrast agent applied during angiography.
The medical history of the patient was not remarkable; thus, computed tomography (CT)
was performed to investigate the etiology. A dilated tubular structure separate from the ureter
was observed in the middle part of the right ureter on CT, clearer in the excision phase. This tubular
structure distally connected with the ureter and was consistent with the abortive bifid ureter
type of UD.

Discussion:

UD may present with renal colic, hematuria, and upper urinary tract infections, or it
may be asymptomatic as in our case. Asymptomatic cases are usually incidentally detected during
radiological imaging. Although treatment is not required for these patients, surgical treatment may
be required in the presence of symptoms.

Conclusion:

UD is an entity that can be asymptomatic until adulthood and may be detected incidentally in radiological
evaluations. UD should be kept in mind when the cystic lesion associated with the ureter is detected in radiological
examination. Excretory phase CT / CT urography noninvasive imaging method must be preferred in to evaluate the
relationship of the lesion with the ureter.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized Via Green Tea Extract for Doxorubicin Delivery
Authors: Nie Lei , Cai Chenlei , Sun Meng , Zhang Fang , Zheng Lingyun , Peng Qi , Shavandi Amin , Yang Shoufeng
Published: November 2020

Background::

Due to the limitation of conventional cancer treatment using chemotherapy,
the nanoparticle therapeutics have shown enhanced efficacy with alleviating side effects.

Objective::

The aim of this study was to prepare the superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (TC-
SPION) for doxorubicin (DOX) loading and delivery.

Methods::

Here, we reported a simple green strategy to fabricate T-C-SPION using green tea extract
and citric acid. Also, the anti-cancer drug, DOX, was used as a model drug to fabricate DOX-loaded
nanoparticles.

Results::

The formed T-C-SPION nanoparticles were spherical with a diameter of 23.8 ± 0.8 nm, as
confirmed by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Besides, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)
revealed that the prepared nanoparticles were water-dispersible and stable while stored in water for 6
weeks. The CCK-8 assay showed T-C-SPION to have a good cytocompatibility using different iron
concentrations (10 ~ 120 ug/mL). Furthermore, T-C-SPION had a higher DOX encapsulation efficiency
(Eencaps), around 43.2 ± 1.8 %, which resulted in a lagged release profile of DOX, compared to
other types of iron oxide nanoparticles using green tea or citric acid alone. Next, cell viability assay
indicated that T-C-SPION with a higher Eencaps showed superior and sustained cytotoxicity compared
to the control group.

Conclusion::

The developed iron oxide nanoparticles synthesized by green tea extract and citric acid
in this paper could be considered as a potential drug carrier for cancer therapy applications.
Output Tracking Performance of Active Exoskeleton Robot Using Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Suebsomran Anan
Published: November 2020

Background::

Assistive exoskeleton robot is required to improve the control of exoskeleton
joints. The robust response of all joint controls is planned to improve the performance of joint tracking
control. Recent patents of an assistive exoskeleton robot concern to explore the system design and integration
have been used.

Objective::

To design and improve the control performance for gain more stability locomotion of exoskeleton device by using the Sliding Mode Control (SMC) technique, and to explore the recent patents of an assistive exoskeleton robots and methods.

Methods::

The recent patents of assistive exoskeleton robots currently investigate in this research. The trajectory generation of gait cycle is approximated using a polynomial equation of the ninth order in the curve fitting of the Human Clinical Gait Cycle (CGC) of lower limb joints. The position and velocity control along the gait cycle are controlled using SMC methods. The robust design of controller performance of position and velocity control for each joint is established via design simulation in three cases.

Results::

The output tracking performance of hip, knee, and ankle joint’s position and velocity shows the controller performance. Three cases of control design study are validated by simulation methods.

Conclusion::

The SMC controller significantly improves the motion control of exoskeleton robot, even with disturbance affecting the system. Thus, it is robust to external forces with humans in the loop system. A steepest command trajectory will cause a lower output tracking response and vice versa.
Antioxidant Activity of Goat Milk Yogurt Casein on Dioxin Intoxicated Rat Liver Function
Authors:   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia, Setianingrum Ani , Padaga Masdiana Chendrakasih ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya
Published: November 2020

Dioxin is toxic contaminant which persistent in the environment. This compound bio-accumulate through food chain and generate adverse effect in human health. Oxidative stress due to dioxin exposure can interfere metabolism process and leads to the development of hepatotoxicity.The aim of this study was to asses the role of casein derived from goat milk yogurt in dioxin-intoxicated rat based on liver function parameters. Substances used were: 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) diluted in corn oil and casein from goat milk yogurt. The study included 24 Wistar rats divided into 6 groups: (1) control group, (2) placebo group which given casein 600 mg/kg BW, (3) TCDD group given with TCDD 100 ng/kg BW, (4) group P1 given casein 300 mg/kg BW and TCDD, (5) group P2 given casein 600 mg/kg BW and TCDD, (6) group P3 given casein 900 mg/kg BW and TCDD. The respective dose were given orally for 21 days. Blood serum was collected for transaminases (ALT, AST) and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) analysis. Based on serum transaminases activity, there were no significant change on AST and ALT level. Casein yogurt supplementation has significant effect on serum GGT level (p<0,05) and optimum dose was 600 mg/kg BW/day
The Effect of Triponyl Sulphate on Fetuses Development and Placental Abnormalities in Inducing Preeclampsia of Rattus norvegicus animal model
Authors:   Laboratorium Biokimia, Fakultas Kedokteran Hewan, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia, Purwatiningsih Wawid , Aryani Dhita Evi ,   Laboratorium Farmakologi, Fakultas Kedokteran Hewan, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia, Vidiastuti Dian ,   Laboratorium Klinik, Fakultas Kedokteran Hewan, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia, Oktanella Yudit ,   Laboratorium Reproduksi, Fakultas Kedokteran Hewan, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia, Firmawati Aulia ,   Laboratorium Reproduksi, Fakultas Kedokteran Hewan, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia
Published: November 2020

Preeclampsia is one of the obstetrical problems that can cause maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Preeclampsia causes the fetus born prematurely and low fetal weight. This is caused by high blood pressure which causes decrease of blood delivery to the placenta, so the supply of oxygen and food to the fetus decreases. As a result, fetal development inhibits and trigger born prematurely. More fatal, this disease cause the release of placental tissue from the uterus prematurely. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of administration of triponyl sulfate as induction of increased blood pressure in preeclampsia animal models, fetal development with alizarin red staining and placental abnormalities. The experimental animals were rats Rattus norvegicus mated with male rats monomating , 4 months old and 250-300 grams body weigh. Pregnant female rats were induced by triponyl sulfate 70 mg / kg BW (k +) and without induced by triponyl sulfate (k-). The results of the study showed that there were formation of the sternal bone in k- and malformation of the sternum bone at k +. Placental abnormalities occured in k +, it could be seen in the presence of ghos villi in blood vessel abnormalities in the preeclampsia placenta caused by there was no invation of trophoblast cells in the whole or partial spiral arteries and the mean of blood pressure increased.
THE STUDY OF ORGANOPHOSPHATE (DIAZINON) TOXICITY TOWARD LIVER HISTOPATHOLOGY AND MALONDIALDEHYDE (MDA) SERUM LEVELS ON RATS (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors:   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia  Researcher and Lecturer   Pathology Laboratory, Pratama Dyah Ayu Oktavianie , Aulia Zulfa ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya Indonesia, Aulanni'am Aulanni'am ,   Faculty of Mathematic and Science, Universitas Brawijaya, Permata Fajar Shodiq ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya
Published: November 2020

Diazinon is an insecticide that has a higher toxicity than other insecticides. Normally, insecticides are detoxified by liver, but this process produced free radicals which causes cell damage. Free radicals also increase lipid peroxidation which directly increase malondialdehyde levels. This research was aimed to determine the influence of diazinon toxicity to the liver histopathology and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum of rats (Rattus norvegicus). The rats were divided into 4 groups which consist of negative control group and three experimental groups which were given diazinon 20 mg/kgBW (P1), 40 mg/ kgBW (P2), and 60 mg/ kgBW (P3). The rats were given diazinon for 8 weeks orally. The parameters used in this research was liver histopathology with hematoxilin eosin stain and Malondialdehyde levels with Thiobarbituric test. Liver histopathology was analyzed in descriptive qualitative and the level of MDA was analyzed quantitatively using ANOVA and Tukey's exact test with α = 0.05. The result of this research showed the influence of organophosphate (diazinon) on liver histolopathology was shown by inflammatory cells infiltration in hepatic parenchyma, sinusoidal congestion, and cytoplasmic vacuolation of the hepatocytes. Statistical analysis proved that the diazinon was able to increase the level of MDA serum significantly (p<0,05) up to 71% in experimental group P1 (dose 20 mg/kgBW), which the increase level of MDA serum depend on dose of diazinon. This research concluded that diazinon is one of the organophosphate pesticide that toxic based on liver histopathology and MDA serum levels.
Relationships between Transformational and Active Transactional Leadership and Followers’ Organizational Identification: The Role of Psychological Empowerment
Authors: Zhu Weichun , Sosik John J. , Riggio Ronald E. , Yang Baiyin
Published: November 2020

We examined the underlying processes through which transformational and active transactional leadership affects followers’ organizational identification in a survey study. Using a sample of managers across different industries, we found that followers’ psychological empowerment, including competence, impact, meaning, and self-determination, partially mediated the effect of transformational leadership and active transactional leadership on followers’ organizational identification. Furthermore, transformational leadership explained variance in followers’ organizational identification and psychological empowerment above and beyond active transactional leadership. These findings provide additional support for transformational leadership theory by demonstrating a motivational mechanism through which followers identify with their organizations. Theoretical contributions and practical implications are discussed.
From the editor - September 2012
Authors: Young Angela
Published: November 2020

A letter from the editor.
“Southwest Effect” – Decisions and Effects of Low Cost Carriers
Authors: Mertens Daniel P. , Vowles Timothy M.
Published: November 2020

This paper reports the findings of an empirical study of low cost airlines. The investigation

centers upon low cost strategies and organization structure of three airlines in the United States over a four year period. Results show that such strategic combinations are very influential on the entire market, resulting in increased sales for all carriers and a decrease in the average fare sold. Of particular note is the role that structure plays in low cost airlines that enables success as they continue growing and competing in new geographic markets.
Balancing Accuracy and Privacy in Federated Queries of Clinical Data Repositories: Algorithm Development and Validation
Authors: Yu Yun William , Weber Griffin M
Published: November 2020

Background

Over the past decade, the emergence of several large federated clinical data networks has enabled researchers to access data on millions of patients at dozens of health care organizations. Typically, queries are broadcast to each of the sites in the network, which then return aggregate counts of the number of matching patients. However, because patients can receive care from multiple sites in the network, simply adding the numbers frequently double counts patients. Various methods such as the use of trusted third parties or secure multiparty computation have been proposed to link patient records across sites. However, they either have large trade-offs in accuracy and privacy or are not scalable to large networks.

Objective

This study aims to enable accurate estimates of the number of patients matching a federated query while providing strong guarantees on the amount of protected medical information revealed.

Methods

We introduce a novel probabilistic approach to running federated network queries. It combines an algorithm called HyperLogLog with obfuscation in the form of hashing, masking, and homomorphic encryption. It is tunable, in that it allows networks to balance accuracy versus privacy, and it is computationally efficient even for large networks. We built a user-friendly free open-source benchmarking platform to simulate federated queries in large hospital networks. Using this platform, we compare the accuracy, k-anonymity privacy risk (with k=10), and computational runtime of our algorithm with several existing techniques.

Results

In simulated queries matching 1 to 100 million patients in a 100-hospital network, our method was significantly more accurate than adding aggregate counts while maintaining k-anonymity. On average, it required a total of 12 kilobytes of data to be sent to the network hub and added only 5 milliseconds to the overall federated query runtime. This was orders of magnitude better than other approaches, which guaranteed the exact answer.

Conclusions

Using our method, it is possible to run highly accurate federated queries of clinical data repositories that both protect patient privacy and scale to large networks.
A Mental Health Surveillance System for the General Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Protocol for a Multiwave Cross-sectional Survey Study
Authors: BinDhim Nasser F , Althumiri Nora A , Basyouni Mada H , Alageel Asem A , Alghnam Suliman , Al-Qunaibet Ada M , Almubark Rasha A , Aldhukair Shahla , Ad-Dab'bagh Yasser
Published: November 2020

Background

The COVID-19 outbreak can potentially be categorized as a traumatic event. Public health surveillance is one of the cornerstones of public health practice, and it empowers decision makers to lead and manage public health crises and programs more effectively by providing timely and useful evidence.

Objective

This paper presents the protocol for a study that aims to identify, track, and monitor trends in the population in Saudi Arabia at risk of major depressive disorders and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This study utilizes continuous, cross-sectional, national-level mental health screening via computer-assisted phone interviews, conducted in four waves on a monthly basis (between May and August 2020). Arabic-speaking adults, aged ≥18 years, and living in Saudi Arabia were recruited via a random phone list. This surveillance system used the proportional quota sampling technique to achieve an equal distribution of participants, stratified by age and gender, and region, within and across the 13 administrative regions of Saudi Arabia. A sample size of 4056 participants per wave was calculated to achieve enough power to detect changes in mental health status. The questionnaire includes the Arabic version of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to measure depressive symptoms and the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) to measure anxiety. In addition, it will collect data on sociodemographic variables and potential risk factors.

Results

Study recruitment began in May 2020. The data analysis was completed in October 2020, and the final report is expected to be published by the end of December 2020.

Conclusions

Monitoring the population’s mental health status during the COVID-19 pandemic will inform decision makers of any potential deterioration in mental health on a national level and among subgroups, including across regions, age groups, and gender groups. It will allow decision makers to recognize issues and intervene sooner. It will also provide valuable scientific data to help understand the effects of epidemics and pandemics on mental health. As far as we know, this is the only study that attempts to monitor the mental health status of the general population on a monthly basis.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/23748
Exploring the Potential of Personalized Dietary Advice for Health Improvement in Motivated Individuals With Premetabolic Syndrome: Pretest-Posttest Study (Preprint)
Authors: van der Haar Sandra , Hoevenaars Femke P M , van den Brink Willem J , van den Broek Tim , Timmer Mariëlle , Boorsma André , Doets Esmée L
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Dietary quality plays an essential role in the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome (MetS).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this pilot study is to organize personalized dietary advice in a real-life setting and to explore the effects on dietary intake, metabolic health, and perceived health.

METHODS

We followed a one-group pretest-posttest design and included 37 individuals at risk of MetS, who indicated motivation to change dietary behavior. For a period of 16 weeks, participants received personalized advice (t=0 and t=8) and feedback (t=0, t=4, t=8, t=12 and t=16) on dietary quality and metabolic health (ie, waist circumference, BMI, blood pressure, lipid profile, fasting glucose levels, and C-peptide). Personalized advice was generated in a two-stage process. In stage 1, an automated algorithm generated advice per food group, integrating data on individual dietary quality (Dutch Healthy Diet Index; total score 8-80) and metabolic health parameters. Stage 2 included a telephone consultation with a trained dietitian to define a personal dietary behavior change strategy and to discuss individual preferences. Dietary quality and metabolic health markers were assessed at t=0, t=8, and t=16. Self-perceived health was evaluated on 7-point Likert scales at t=0 and t=16.

RESULTS

At the end of the study period, dietary quality was significantly improved compared with the baseline (Dutch Healthy Diet Index +4.3; P<.001). In addition, lipid profile (triglycerides, P=.02; total cholesterol, P=.01; high-density lipoprotein, P<.001; and low-density lipoprotein, P<.001), BMI (P<.001), waist circumference (P=.01), and C-peptide (P=.01) were all significantly improved, whereas plasma glucose increased by 0.23 nmol/L (P=.04). In line with these results, self-perceived health scores were higher at t=16 weeks than at baseline (+0.67; P=.005).

CONCLUSIONS

This exploratory study showed that personalized dietary advice resulted in positive effects on dietary behavior, metabolic health, and self-perceived health in motivated pre-MetS adults. The study was performed in a do-it-yourself setting, highlighting the potential of at-home health improvement through dietary changes.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04595669; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04595669
Why #WeAreNotWaiting—Motivations and Self-Reported Outcomes Among Users of Open-source Automated Insulin Delivery Systems: Multinational Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Braune Katarina , Gajewska Katarzyna Anna , Thieffry Axel , Lewis Dana Michelle , Froment Timothée , O'Donnell Shane , Speight Jane , Hendrieckx Christel , Schipp Jasmine , Skinner Timothy , Langstrup Henriette , Tappe Adrian , Raile Klemens , Cleal Bryan
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems have been shown to be safe and effective in reducing hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia but are not universally available, accessible, or affordable. Therefore, user-driven open-source AID systems are becoming increasingly popular.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the motivations for which people with diabetes (types 1, 2, and other) or their caregivers decide to build and use a personalized open-source AID.

METHODS

A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted to assess personal motivations and associated self-reported clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 897 participants from 35 countries, 80.5% (722) were adults with diabetes and 19.5% (175) were caregivers of children with diabetes. Primary motivations to commence open-source AID included improving glycemic outcomes (476/509 adults, 93.5%, and 95/100 caregivers, 95%), reducing acute (443/508 adults, 87.2%, and 96/100 caregivers, 96%) and long-term (421/505 adults, 83.3%, and 91/100 caregivers, 91%) complication risk, interacting less frequently with diabetes technology (413/509 adults, 81.1%; 86/100 caregivers, 86%), improving their or child’s sleep quality (364/508 adults, 71.6%, and 80/100 caregivers, 80%), increasing their or child’s life expectancy (381/507 adults, 75.1%, and 84/100 caregivers, 84%), lack of commercially available AID systems (359/507 adults, 70.8%, and 79/99 caregivers, 80%), and unachieved therapy goals with available therapy options (348/509 adults, 68.4%, and 69/100 caregivers, 69%). Improving their own sleep quality was an almost universal motivator for caregivers (94/100, 94%). Significant improvements, independent of age and gender, were observed in self-reported glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), 7.14% (SD 1.13%; 54.5 mmol/mol, SD 12.4) to 6.24% (SD 0.64%; 44.7 mmol/mol, SD 7.0; P<.001), and time in range (62.96%, SD 16.18%, to 80.34%, SD 9.41%; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the unmet needs of people with diabetes, provide new insights into the evolving phenomenon of open-source AID technology, and indicate improved clinical outcomes. This study may inform health care professionals and policy makers about the opportunities provided by open-source AID systems.

CLINICALTRIAL

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/15368