bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competitive fitness analysis using Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Palka Joanna K. , Fiok Krzysztof , Antoł Weronika , Prokop Zofia M.
Published: November 2020

We developed a procedure for estimating competitive fitness by using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism and a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) as a tool. Competitive fitness is usually the most informative fitness measure, and competitive fitness assays often rely on green fluorescent protein (GFP) marker strains. CNNs are a class of deep learning neural networks, which are well suited for image analysis and object classification. Our model analyses involved image classification of nematodes as wild-type vs. GFP-expressing, and counted both categories. The performance was analyzed with (i) precision and recall parameters, and (ii) comparison of the wild-type frequency calculated from the model against that obtained by visual scoring of the same images. The average precision and recall varied from 0.79 to 0.87 and from 0.84 to 0.92, respectively, depending on worm density in the images. Compared with manual counting, the model decreased counting time at least 20-fold while preventing human errors. Given the rapid development in the field of CNN, the model, which is fully available on GitHub, can be further optimized and adapted for other image-based uses.
Earth’s Dynamic Past Revealed by Detrital Thermochronometry
Authors: Stockli Daniel F. , Najman Yani M. R.
Published: November 2020

A dvances in detrital noble gas thermochronometry by 40Ar/39Ar and (U–Th)/He dating are improving the resolution of sedimentary provenance reconstructions and are providing new insights into the evolution of Earth’s surface. Detrital thermochronometry has the ability to quantify tectonic unroofing or erosion, temporal and dynamic connections between sediment source and sink, sediment lag-times and transfer rates, the timing of deposition, and postdepositional burial heating. Hence, this technique has the unique ability to use the detrital record in sedimentary basins to reconstruct Earth’s dynamic long-term landscape evolution and how basins are coupled to their hinterlands.
Iron Oxide (U–Th)/He Thermochronology: New Perspectives on Faults, Fluids, and Heat
Authors: Cooperdock Emily H. G. , Ault Alexis K.
Published: November 2020

Fault zones record the dynamic motion of Earth’s crust and are sites of heat exchange, fluid–rock interaction, and mineralization. Episodic or long-lived fluid flow, frictional heating, and/or deformation can induce open-system chemical behavior and make dating fault zone processes challenging. Iron oxides are common in a variety of geologic settings, including faults and fractures, and can grow at surface-to magmatic temperatures. Recently, iron oxide (U–Th)/He thermochronology, coupled with microtextural and trace element analyses, has enabled new avenues of research into the timing and nature of fluid–rock interactions and deformation. These constraints are important for understanding fault zone evolution in space and time.
Numerical evaluation of two-time correlation functions in open quantum systems with matrix product state methods: a comparison
Authors: Wolff Stefan , Sheikhan Ameneh , Kollath Corinna
Published: November 2020

We compare the efficiency of different matrix product state (MPS) based methods for the calculation of two-time correlation functions in open quantum systems. The methods are the purification approach[1] and two approaches[2,3] based on the Monte-Carlo wave function (MCWF) sampling of stochastic quantum trajectories using MPS techniques. We consider a XXZ spin chain either exposed to dephasing noise or to a dissipative local spin flip. We find that the preference for one of the approaches in terms of numerical efficiency depends strongly on the specific form of dissipation.
Acesso e Distribuição do Pronaf entre Agricultores Familiares no Estado de Santa Catarina
Authors: Fossá Juliano Luiz , Matte Alessandra , Mattei Lauro Francisco , Schneider Sérgio
Published: November 2020

Este artigo tem como tema a participação e o acesso da agricultura familiar do estado de Santa Catarina no Programa Nacional de Fortalecimento da Agricultura Familiar (PRONAF)., o objetivo foi analisar a trajetória do acesso e da distribuição do crédito PRONAF no estado de Santa Catarina. O estudo caracteriza-se por uma abordagem que envolve tanto o uso de métodos quantitativos e qualitativos, tendo como delimitação o estado catarinense e o registro de acesso ao programa PRONAF entre 1996 e 2018. Os dados resultantes da pesquisa foram acessados junto ao Banco Central, considerando os recursos deflacionados pelo INPC para o ano de 2018. Os resultados apontam para crescimento no volume de recursos distribuído no período de 1996 a 2018, contabilizando aproximadamente 6,2 vezes o valor inicial, o equivalente a 619,1%. Por outro lado, o número de contratos apresentou oscilações, passando de 98 mil em 1996 para 90 mil contratos em 2018, permitindo constatar que o montante acessado por produtor é maior. A maior parcela dos recursos do crédito é destinada ao custeio, o que não impediu o registro de significativos incrementos a partir de 2006 para a linha de crédito de investimento. Constata-se concentração dos financiamentos em culturas/atividades ligadas às grandes cadeias do agronegócio no estado. É possível concluir que o PRONAF consiste em importante política pública de apoio ao segmento familiar rural do estado de Santa Catarina, visto que tem aumentando o montante acessado, ao mesmo tempo em que aponta para seletividade dos participantes do programa e crescimento da necessidade de recursos financeiros.
Da Vassoura de Bruxa à Fazenda de Chocolate: a Reconversão Produtiva no Sul da Bahia
Authors: Carvalho Joanna Isis Chaves , Soares Neto Horígenes Fontes , Pinheiro Lessí Inês Farias
Published: November 2020

Com as diversas crises pelas quais passou, em especial após a iniciada no fim dos anos 1980, a cacauicultura do sul da Bahia vem apresentando um cenário de reconversão produtiva. A antiga monocultura cacaueira, por longo período fonte de riquezas e responsável por subsidiar o alto padrão de vida das famílias produtoras do “fruto de ouro”, atingida fortemente pela entrada do fungo da “vassoura-de-bruxa” nas plantações, cedeu seu lugar de destaque nos indicadores econômicos nacionais e estaduais para o setor terciário, realçando-se o subsetor dos serviços, na microrregião Itabuna-Ilhéus. Este artigo visa analisar se a atividade cacaueira ainda possui importância socioeconômica para o sul baiano, tomando-se por base as alternativas encontradas pelos produtores para o soerguimento e renovação da cultura, o que se chamou de reinvenção produtiva no pós-crise de 1989, confrontando-se e questionando o tão presente setor terciário na sustentação da economia regional. Metodologicamente, são analisados dados empíricos a respeito dos processos de importação/exportação e produção/beneficiamento do cacau, responsáveis por reflexos da cacauicultura na economia e dinâmica locorregionais, os quais ratificam a ainda significativa importância da lavoura cacaueira na região sul baiana.
A Gestão e o Plano Municipal de Saúde do Município de Caçador, Santa Catarina
Authors: Milani Maria Luiza , Almeida Humberto Assis de , Pedrassani Daniela , Marchesan Jairo
Published: November 2020

O artigo teve como objetivo analisar a gestão da saúde e os Planos Municipais de Saúde (PMS), do município de Caçador, localizado no Meio Oeste de Santa Catarina. O estudo foi conduzido pelo método sistêmico, com procedimentos de pesquisa bibliográfica, análise dos PMS e Relatórios Anuais de Gestão (RAGs), por questionário respondido pelo gestor municipal e por um integrante do Conselho Municipal de Saúde. Entre os principais resultados, aponta-se a falta de estabelecimento de diretrizes específicas nos Planos Municipais de Saúde (metas, objetivos gerais e específicos, cronograma de implantação dos programas, controle financeiro), a apresentação de dados confusos e de difícil mensuração nos PMS, bem como a falta de dados para análise dos Relatórios Anuais de Gestão. Percebeu-se a necessidade de convergência entre os elementos definidos no Plano Municipal de Saúde e na análise desses mesmos elementos nos Relatórios Anuais de Gestão. Ainda, faz-se importante a intensa participação popular no Conselho Municipal, assim como de uma atuação incisiva do conselho em todo o ciclo de gestão da saúde municipal. O direito à saúde é inerente a todos os cidadãos brasileiros, e cabe ao Estado a promoção, prevenção e assegurar a assistência em caso de agravo à saúde da população. É um direito garantido por políticas públicas sociais, seguindo as diretrizes do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Não obstante, as políticas públicas têm em seu contexto relações de poder. No entanto, a decisão sobre a implementação ou não das mesmas depende da articulação e de pressão da sociedade e dos grupos que atuam junto ao governo. Afinal, os recursos públicos são, normalmente, limitados e desigualmente distribuídos.
Um Olhar para a Integração Vertical a Partir de Recursos e Capacidades Organizacionais: Um Estudo em Fábricas do Setor de Confecção de Roupas
Authors: Ferreira Bianca , Augusto Cleiciele Albuquerque
Published: November 2020

O presente artigo tem o objetivo de compreender a influência dos recursos e capacidades estratégicos na escolha pela integração vertical em fábricas de confecção de roupas femininas de Maringá. Para atingir o objetivo proposto, realizou-se uma pesquisa teórico-empírica, de natureza qualitativa e do tipo descritiva, utilizando-se de entrevistas semiestruturadas com gerentes e sócios das fábricas de confecção de roupas. No que se refere aos resultados, identificou-se que, em todas as fábricas, é utilizado a estrutura de governança integração vertical no processo de modelagem e criação, etapa que se constituem a identidade dessas empresas. Também foi identificado a presença de contratos, principalmente na etapa de costura. Constatou-se que a integração vertical, como possível fonte geradora de vantagem competitiva em fábricas de confecção de roupas, é influenciada por recursos e capacidades estratégicos, notadamente recursos físicos (máquina de corte automatizado, software próprio, estrutura física própria), sendo que esses recursos foram encontrados, principalmente, nas empresas que são mais integradas verticalmente. Conclui-se que as fábricas que possuem maior nível de integração vertical, são também as que possuem mais recursos e capacidades estratégicos, potenciais geradores de vantagem competitiva.
Aposentadoria Especial no Âmbito dos Regimes Próprios de Previdência Social sob a Ótica da Súmula Vinculante nº 33
Authors: Lopes Luis Felipe Dias , Ferrari Renata , Denardin Marcela Giuliani , Fabricio Adriane , Menegazzi Raquel Boff
Published: November 2020

A Previdência Social é direito fundamental garantido pela Constituição Federal, de forma que existe previsão legal de aposentadoria especial aos segurados que laborem em condições que prejudiquem a saúde e integridade física. Em virtude da mora legislativa do Governo em editar a lei complementar que regulamenta aposentadoria especial, os servidores públicos abrangidos pelos regimes próprios passaram a ingressar junto ao Supremo Tribunal Federal a fim de garantir direito ao gozo da aposentadoria especial. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o panorama atual da aposentadoria especial no âmbito dos regimes próprios. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo bibliográfico, de método dedutivo e exploratório, através da pesquisa qualitativa. Trata-se de uma pesquisa documental, que analisou, além de, livros e artigos, legislações e normas. Como resultado, pode-se identificar que a aposentadoria especial teve resolução através do Poder Judiciário e não do Poder Legislativo e Executivo, que seria o caminho correto. A normatização, através da súmula vinculante, sanou de forma urgente a mora legislativa e deu aos servidores o direito de gozar aposentadoria. A súmula vinculante garantiu igualdade de direitos a todos os segurados, mas não considerou as questões financeiras e atuariais dos regimes próprios, juntamente ao princípio da contrapartida.
Indicador para evaluar el atributo de la comodidad en el transporte público, para la estimación de Modelos de Elección Discreta
Authors: Obregón Biosca Saúl Antonio
Published: November 2020

Introducción: La percepción de la comodidad en el transporte público es heterogénea debido a que sus usuarios lo son en sí, y la elección de viajar en dicho medio de transporte es un proceso que refleja diferentes actitudes de usuario, entre las que se encuentran sus características socioeconómicas. Relacionar características del usuario y su nivel de comodidad percibido puede estimarse mediante métodos estadísticos y logísticos con la finalidad de determinar la probabilidad de empleo del medio.Método: A partir de una encuesta Origen Destino aplicada en la Zona Conurbada de Querétaro y considerando que el costo generalizado del viaje en automóvil es inferior al del transporte público, la presente investigación presenta la estimación de atributos para ambos medios, por un lado, un proceso para la obtención del atributo de la comodidad en el transporte público y por el otro, un índice del costo generalizado para el automóvil.Resultados: En los modelos estimados, el atributo del medio de transporte calculado bajo el procedimiento reportado refleja una menor probabilidad de elegir el vehículo privado como medio de transporte, si se tiene un mayor nivel de comodidad en el transporte público. Además, considerando la relación intrínseca en el atributo del automóvil, entre más similar es el costo generalizado en transporte público y el del automóvil, más cercano a cero y menor utilidad plantea el automóvil, rigiendo así el atributo de la comodidad en el transporte público.Discusión o Conclusión: Se comprueba que la percepción de comodidad en el transporte público está relacionada con la elección de dicho medio. Respecto al atributo del automóvil el indicador presentado muestra que entre menor es el costo generalizado del viaje en automóvil y mayor el del autobús, lo cual genera una mayor probabilidad del uso del primer medio, lo anterior, considerado para ciudades como la del caso de estudio, en las que el costo generalizado en automóvil (considerando los parámetros expuestos) será menor que el costo generalizado en transporte público, principalmente por los tiempos totales de viaje.
Fabrication of ultrafiltration membranes by poly (aryl ether nitrile) with poly (ethylene glycol) as additives
Authors: Wang Qi , Dai Fengna , Zhang Shangying , Chen Chunhai , Yu Youhai
Published: November 2020

A new kind of flat sheet ultrafiltration membrane was prepared by a promising membrane material, poly (aryl ether nitrile) (PEN), via non-solvent induced phase separation. The effect of solvents, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and dimethyl acetamide (DMAc), as well as additive of poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) with different molecular weights on the structure and permeation performance of synthesized membranes were investigated. Comparing with NMP, DMAc is more suitable for the casting solution preparation due to better solubility. A gradually changing pore from sponge-like to finger-like can be observed when PEG was added with DMAc as solvent, while a finger-like pore structure always appears in the NMP system with or without PEG. In both systems, the formation of macrovoids is effectively promoted by the addition of PEG, and higher porosity membranes can be obtained by PEG with higher molecular weight. With the increase of PEG molecular weight from 400 to 10,000 Da, the permeate flux increases from 74.5 to 114.3 L·m−2·h−1 and from 102.0 to 130.8 L·m−2·h−1 under a 100 kPa pressure-driven when NMP and DMAc were used as solvents, respectively. The membranes prepared by DMAc exhibit outstanding rejection of BSA with rejections all above 96.5%.
Anatomically optimized distal renal denervation — sustained blood pressure lowering efficacy during 3 years after the intervention
Authors: Pekarskiy S. , Baev A. , Falkovskaya A. , Sitkova E. , Zyubanova I. , Lichikaki V. , Mordovin V. , Popov S.
Published: November 2020

Aim. To test the hypothesis that anatomical optimisation of radiofrequency renal denervation (RDN) by redistribution of treatment to segmental branches of the renal artery causes a durable increase in the efficacy of the intervention.Methods. A double-blind randomised control study in parallel groups with a 3-year follow-up was performed in patients with apparent resistant hypertension (office systolic BP ≥160 or diastolic BP ≥100 mmHg despite stable treatment with ≥3 drugs, including a diuretic). Exclusion criteria were secondary hypertension, mean 24-h systolic BP <135 mmHg, eGFR <30 mL/min/m2 and severe comorbidity increasing procedural risks (investigator’s assessment). Eligible patients were randomised 1:1 into distal RDN or RDN in the main trunk of the renal artery. Treatment assignment was done in the operation room immediately before the procedure. For the duration of the study, the assigned treatment was unknown to patients, physicians and other outcome assessors. Long-term efficacy of the procedure was measured by changes in BP (office and ambulatory), whereas safety was assessed by changes in the 24-h protein excretion, serum creatinine and eGFR 3 years post-procedure.Results. Of the 55 randomised patients, 39 (71%) completed a 3-year assessment (21 after distal RDN and 18 after RDN in the main trunk of the renal artery). Compared to baseline, the mean 24-h BP remained significantly lowered in the distal RDN group by −16.9 (95% CI −27.3;−6.5)/−8.5 (95% CI −14.2;−2.9) mmHg, p = 0.002/0.004 (systolic/diastolic, respectively). The lowering of the mean 24-h BP was almost twofold less and non-significant in the group of RDN in the main trunk of the renal artery: −8.7 (95% CI −19.6;2.2)/−5.8 (95% CI −11.8;0.1).Conclusion. Anatomical optimisation of endovascular renal denervation produces a powerful and sustained increase in the efficacy of the intervention.
Received 19 May 2020. Revised 10 July 2020. Accepted 7 September 2020.
Funding: The study did not have sponsorship.
Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.
Clin.Trials.gov Identifier: NCT02667912.
Author contributionsConception and design: S.E. PekarskiyData collection and analysis: S.E. Pekarskiy, A.E. Baev, A.Yu. Falkovskaya, E.S. Sitkova, I.V. Zyubanova, V.A. Lichikaki, V.F. MordovinStatistical analysis: S.E. PekarskiyDrafting the article: S.E. Pekarskiy, A.E. BaevCritical revision of the article: S.V. PopovFinal approval of the version to be published: S.E. Pekarskiy, A.E. Baev, A.Yu. Falkovskaya, E.S. Sitkova, I.V. Zyubanova, V.A. Lichikaki, V.F. Mordovin, S.V. Popov
Cell-to-Cell Transmission of the Unfolded Protein Response - Is it a Real Phenomenon?
Authors: Bozko Maria , Bozko Przemyslaw
Published: November 2020

Cell-to-cell transmission of the unfolded protein response (UPR) is one of the
most exciting observations recently made in cell biology. One of the most efficient tools
to induce UPR response in cell culture is treatment with specific compounds leading to
accumulation of misfolded proteins in endoplasmic reticulum. In this article we discussed
opposite opinions regarding application of this approach and possible sources of experimental
artefacts.
Drug Synergy Prediction Using Dynamic Mutation Based Differential Evolution
Authors: Kaur Manjit , Singh Dilbag , Kumar Vijay
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

In cancer therapies, drug combinations have shown significant accuracy and minimal side
effects than the single drug administration. Therefore, drug synergy has drawn great interest from
pharmaceutical companies and researchers. Unfortunately, the prediction of drug synergy score was carried out
based on the small group of drugs.

Methods:

Due to the advancement in high-throughput screening (HTS), the size of drug synergy datasets has
grown enormously in recent years. Hence, machine learning models have been utilized to predict the drug
synergy score. However, the majority of these machine learning models suffer from over-fitting and hyperparameters
tuning issues.

Results:

A novel deep bidirectional mixture density network (BMDN) model is proposed. A dynamic mutationbased
multi-objective differential evolution is used to optimize the hyper-parameters of BMDN. Extensive is
conducted on the NCI-ALMANAC drug synergy dataset that consists of 2,90,000 synergy determinations.

Conclusions:

Experimental results reveal that BMDN outperforms the existing drug synergy models in terms of
various performance metrics.
Properties of Ethnomedicinal Plants and Their Bioactive Compounds: Possible Use for COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Shoaib Ambreen , Azmi Lubna , Shukla Ila , Alqahtani Saad S. , Alsarra Ibrahim A. , Shakeel Faiyaz
Published: November 2020

Background:

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has changed the global scenario.
To date, there are no treatment or preventive options. The discovery of a new drug will take time. In addition,
the new drug will have side effects, and the virus will gradually become resistant to it. Therefore, it is important
to search for a drug with a natural origin.

Objective:

In this review, we analyzed and summarized various ethnomedicinal plants and their bioactive compounds
as a source of antiviral agents for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.

Methods:

From the literature, we selected different natural compounds that can act as potential targets at low
cost with broad-spectrum antiviral activity.

Results:

Of the 200 Chinese herbal extracts tested for their possible role against SARS-CoV, Lycoris radiata,
Artemisia annua, Pyrrosia lingua, and Lindera aggregate showed anti-SARS-CoV effects with the median effective
concentration = 2.4-88.2 μg/mL.

Conclusion:

Ethnomedicinal herbs can be used as an alternative source of novel, promising antiviral agents that
might directly or indirectly inhibit the COVID-19 progression.
Potential Role of miRNA in Metastatic Cascade of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Balkrishna Acharya , Mittal Rashmi , Arya Vedpriya
Published: November 2020

Triple-negative breast cancer presents an aggressive form of breast cancer subtype,
which further lacks efficient treatment strategies and prognostic markers. Genomic heterogeneity
in TNBC has led to the relapse of tumor and cancer stem cells with a higher likelihood of distal metastasis.
Several studies supported the notion that miRNAs may act as oncogene or tumor suppressors
in TNBC. miRNAs may function as a global regulator of TNBC by targeting post-transcriptional
regulation of several genes involved in influencing metastatic events, but the exact mechanism
involved in inducing the effect is yet to be elucidated. In this review, we summarized miRNA expression,
which can functionally suppress metastatic cascade in TNBC by targeting epithelial to
mesenchymal transition, metastatic colonization, cancer stem cells, invasion, migration and metastasis.
miRNAs may appear as a metastatic biomarker to predict distal reoccurrence of TNBC in
lungs, brain and lymph nodes. miRNA can act as a prognostic marker in metastatic TNBC, thereby
predicting overall survival, disease-free survival and distant metastasis-free survival in affected patients.
The present review article is an attempt to gain an insight into the repertoire of miRNA that
may emerge out as an effective treatment strategy, novel biomarker of distal reoccurrence and prognostic
marker in metastatic TNBC.
Ultrasound-Assisted One-Pot Synthesis of Tetrahydropyrimidne Derivatives through Biginelli Condensation: A Catalyst Free Green Chemistry Approach
Authors: Patel Ashish , Shah Jinagna , Patel Kesha , Patel Krishna , Patel Harit , Dobaria Divyesh , Shah Umang , Patel Mehul , Chokshi Avani , Patel Samir , Parekh Nikunj , Shah Hirak , Patel Harnisha , Bambharoliya Tushar
Published: November 2020

The aim of present work is one-pot catalyst free green synthesis of tetrahydropyrimidne derivatives
through Biginelli condensation under ultrasonic irradiation.

The chemical applications of ultrasound, "sonochemistry", has become an exciting new field of research
during the past decade as it can increase reactivities by nearly a million fold. Owing to the increasing
use of Green technology approach, due to its various merits over Classical methodology and
as a need for sustainable Chemistry, this reaction has received renewed interest for preparing tetrahydropyrimidine
(THPM) through Biginelii condensation in an environmentally thoughtful manner with
improved yields.

The objective of the present study is focused on developing novel Ultrasound-Assisted catalyst free
one-pot synthesis of tetrahydropyrimidne derivatives through Biginelli condensation
We, herein describe a highly efficient catalyst free one-pot green synthesis of tetrahydropyrimidine derivatives
using Biginelli protocol under ultrasonic irradiation at 50°C. All the products were characterized
by comparing their physical and spectral data with those of authentic compounds reported in the
literature.

:

A green and efficient ultrasound-assisted one-pot synthesis method for tetrahydro-yrimidine
derivatives have been developed through Biginelli condensation. The technique affords up to 99%
yield in only 5–20 minutes under mild heating. Each synthesized compounds were fully characterized
through spectral techniques viz. IR, 1H NMR, and Mass Spectroscopy.

A green and efficient ultrasound-assisted one-pot synthesis method for tetrahy-droyrimidine
derivatives have been developed through Biginelli condensation. The present sonochemistry based
green chemistry approach with no additional acid catalyst produces no waste, shows a significant
enhancement in reaction rates under mild ultrasound irradiation in excellent yields and therefore
represents a green and enviro-economic synthetic methodology for the Biginelli condensation in
comparison to conventional heating/micro-wave irradiation.
Quinone-Based Drugs: An Important Class of Molecules in Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Ferreira Vitor F. , de Carvalho Alcione S. , Ferreira Patricia G. , Lima Carolina G.S. , de C. da Silva Fernando
Published: November 2020

Background:

Several quinones are on the pharmaceutical market as drugs for the treatment of several diseases.

Objective:

The aim of this review was to provide an overview on the quinones that have become drugs for several therapeutic applications.

Method:

We have comprehensively and critically discussed all the information available in the literature about quinonebased drugs.

Results:

In this review, the various aspects of the chemistry and biochemistry of these drugs are highlighted,
including their repositioning, drug combination and their new uses.

Conclusion:

The number of studies related to quinone drugs for different pharmaceutical uses shows that the interest in new
applications still increasing in recent years.
Properties and Applications of Modified Bacterial Cellulose-Based Materials
Authors: Badshah Munair , Ullah Hanif , Wahid Fazli , Khan Taous
Published: November 2020

Background:

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is the purest form of cellulose as it is free from
pectin, lignin, hemicellulose and other active constituents associated with cellulose derived from
plant sources. High biocompatibility and easy molding into the desired shape make BC an ideal candidate
for applications in the biomedical fields, such as tissue engineering, wound healing and bone
regeneration. In addition to this, BC has been widely studied for applications in the delivery of proteins
and drugs in various forms via different routes. However, BC lacks therapeutic properties and
resistance to the free movement of small molecules, i.e., gases and solvents. Therefore, modification
of BC is required to meet the research ad market demand.

Methods:

We have searched the updated data relevant to as-synthesized and modified BC, properties and applications in
various fields using Web of science, Science direct, Google and PubMed.

Results:

As-synthesized BC possesses properties such as high crystallinity, well organized fibrous network, higher degree
of polymerization, and ability of being produced in swollen form. The large surface area with abundance of free accessible
hydroxyl groups makes BC an ideal candidate for carrying out surface functionalization to enhance its features. The
various reported surface modification techniques including, but not limited to, are amination, methylation and acetylation.

Conclusion:

In this review, we have highlighted various approaches made for BC surface modification. We have also
reported enhancement in the properties of modified BC and potential applications in different fields ranging from
biomedical science to drug delivery and paper-making to various electronic devices.
Human Papillomavirus E7 Oncoprotein Promotes Proliferation and Migration through the Transcription Factor E2F1 in Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Tian Sijuan , Zhang Li , Li Yang , Cao Di , Quan Shimin , Guo Yanping , Yang Xiaofeng , Yang Ting
Published: November 2020

Background:

High-Risk Human Papillomavirus (HR-HPV) persistent infection is the main cause of
cervical cancer and its precancerous lesions. A previous study showed that HPV16 and HPV58 infections were
the most common infection types in the local region. Some studies also declared that HPV58 E7 variants
increased the risk of cervical cancer among Asian populations.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine whether the HPV58 E7 T20I (C632T) variant promotes the malignant
behavior of cervical cancer cells and the underlying mechanism of the HR-HPV E7 oncoprotein involved in the
development of cervical cancer.

Methods:

CCK-8 and clone formation assays were used to detect cell proliferation ability. Transwell assays and
cell wound healing assays were used to evaluate cell migration ability. Targeted knockdown of E2F1 expression
using specific siRNA, RT-qPCR and Western blot were performed to assess gene expression changes. A
chromatin immunoprecipitation assay was used to verify that E2F1 interacted with the TOP2A promoter region.

Results:

HPV58 E7 and HPV58 E7M oncoproteins increased the proliferation and migration ability of cervical
cancer cells. However, the HPV58 E7 T20I variant did not promote malignant behaviors compared with wildtype
HPV58 E7. HPV E7 and E7M oncoproteins increased the expression of TOP2A, BIRC5 and E2F1, and
knockdown of HPV E7 decreased their expression. Low E2F1 expression reduced the expression of TOP2A and
BIRC5 and inhibited the proliferation and migration ability of cervical cancer cells. E2F1 interacted with the
TOP2A gene promoter region to promote its transcriptional expression.

Conclusions:

The HPV58 E7 T20I variant did not promote malignant behaviors compared with wild-type HPV58
E7. The HR-HPV E7 oncoprotein enhanced the proliferation and migration of cervical cancer cells, which was
considered to be due to the HPV E7 oncoprotein, increasing the expression of BIRC5 and TOP2A by
upregulating the transcription factor E2F1.
Effect of Dasatinib on Genes Related to Mitotic Catastrophe Pathway in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Kipcak Sezgi , Ozel Buket , Avci Cigir B. , Takanlou Leila S. , Takanlou Maryam S. , Gunduz Cumhur , Gunel Nur S.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is characterized by a reciprocal translocation t(9;22)
and forms BCR/ABL1 fusion gene called the Philadelphia chromosome. The therapeutic targets for CML patients
mediated with BCR/ABL1 oncogenic are tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib. The
latter two of which have been approved for the treatment of imatinib-resistant or intolerance CML patients.
Mitotic Catastrophe (MC) is one of the non-apoptotic mechanisms initiated in types of cancer cells in response to
anti-cancer therapies. Pharmacological inhibitors of G2 checkpoint members or genetic suppression of PLK1,
PLK2, ATR, ATM, CHK1, and CHK2 can trigger DNA-damage-stimulated mitotic catastrophe. PLK1 and
AURKA/B are anomalously expressed in CML cells, where phosphorylation and activation of PLK1 occur by
AURKB at centromeres and kinetochores.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of dasatinib on the expression of genes in MC and
apoptosis pathways in K562 cells.

Methods:

Total RNA was isolated from K-562 cells treated with the IC50 value of dasatinib and untreated cells as
a control group. The expression of MC and apoptosis-related genes, was analyzed by the qRT-PCR system.

Results:

The array-data demonstrated that dasatinib-treated K562 cells significantly caused the decrease of
several genes (AURKA, AURKB, PLK, CHEK1, MYC, XPC, BCL2, and XRCC2).

Conclusion:

The evidence supplies a basis to support clinical researches for the suppression of oncogenes such
as PLKs with AURKs in the treatment of types of cancer, especially chronic myeloid leukemia.
Development of Furo[2,3-b]quinoline Derivatives with Anti-Breast Cancer Property by Targeting Topoisomerase II
Authors: Wang Ying , Li Na , Jiang Neng , Chen Li , Sun Jianbo
Published: November 2020

A number of novel furo[2,3-b]quinoline derivatives were designed and synthesized by introducing
different substituted anilines and phenols to C4-position of furo[2,3-b]quinoline. All target compounds were
evaluated in vitro against two human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and one normal breast
cell (MCF-10A) by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium broide, Thiazolyl blue)
method. Most derivatives showed significant cytotoxic activity on the two breast cancer cells with IC50 values in
the range of (5.60-26.24 μM) and a certain selectivity, especially in the inhibition of MDA-MB-231. More
notably, they were less toxic to normal breast cell (MCF-7-10A). Compound I7 could be considered as an ideal
selective candidate for further study. Mechanism studies showed that I7 could inhibit the proliferation of cells by
arresting MDA-MB-231 cell cycle at G2/M phase. Overall, as a novel furo[2,3-b]quinoline derivative, I7
exhibited an excellent inhibitory effect in MDA-MB-231 cell and was worthy of in-depth study.
Withdrawal Notice: Electrophoresis as a Tool for Early Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Aboulthana Wael M. , Sahu Ram K. , Saleh Mahmoud H.
Published: November 2020

The article has been withdrawn by the Editorial office of the journal Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal
Chemistry; because of the lack of clarity and obscurity in the content regarding language.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

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copyright of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
Bioadhesive Films as Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Singh Inderbir , Dastidar Debabrata G. , Ghosh Dipanjan , Sengupta Abhijit , Ajala Tolulope O. , Odeku Oluwatoyin A. , Singh Bineet P. , Sharma Madhu
Published: November 2020

Bioadhesive films are considered a novel drug delivery system thatprovides improved therapy
and better patient compliance than conventional dosage forms. The type and concentration of polymer
or the blend of polymers used are important factors that can influence the properties of bioadhesive
films, the product outcome and the performance. But the modification of available polymers to synthesize
polymers with improved properties is the current area of research. Furthermore, addressing the
challenges in formulating bioadhesive films for transdermal delivery of a variety of different classes of
drug molecules is the frontier for future research. With the advancement of synthetic chemistry and the
development of newer technology like 3D printing, more studies are being conducted on bioadhesive
films that have opened up many opportunities in this field of research. This article reviews the current
advancements in developing bio-adhesive films and provides basic principles that will be helpful to
overcome the difficulties that are associated with the design of formulation.
Detecting Faults in VSC-HVDC Systems by Deep Learning and K-means
Authors: Goughari Roohollah Sadeghi , Shahbazzadeh Mehdi Jafari , Eslami Mahdiyeh
Published: November 2020

Background:

In this paper, two methods and their comparison used to determine the fault locaton in VSC-HVDC transmission lines. Fast and reliable control are features of these systems.

Methods:

Additionally, wavelet transform from advanced techniques of signal processing is employed for the purpose of extracting important characteristics of fault signal from both sides of the line by PMU. To do so, Deep learning is used to identify the relation between the extracted features from wavelet analysis of the fault current and variations under fault conditions. As such, wavelet transform and advanced signal processing techniques are used to extract important features of fault signal from both sides of the line by the PMU.

Results:

The results show the high accuracy of finding fault location by the deep learning algorithm method compared to the k-means algorithm with an error rate of <1%.

Conclusion:

Studies on the 50 kV VSC-HVDC transmission line with a length of 25 km in MATLAB have been simulated.
Electronic Tools to Bridge the Language Gap in Health Care for People Who Have Migrated: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Thonon Frédérique , Perrot Swati , Yergolkar Abhijna Vithal , Rousset-Torrente Olivia , Griffith James W , Chassany Olivier , Duracinsky Martin
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

People who have migrated or with a language barrier may face significant hurdles in accessing health care. Some apps have been specifically developed to facilitate the dialogue between health care professionals and people who have migrated who have low-level language proficiency or to promote health among people who have migrated.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a systematic review to investigate development, acceptability, and effectiveness of these types of apps.

METHODS

We conducted a search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases. We included all study designs (qualitative, quantitative, mixed) reporting development, evaluation of efficacy, or acceptability of apps facilitating dialogue with a health professional or promoting health for people who have migrated, minorities, or tourists with a language barrier, using any outcome. Two researchers selected the studies independently. We collected general information about the app, information about health literacy and cultural adaptation, information about the development of the app, evidence on acceptability or efficacy, and information on app use. Data were collected by 2 researchers independently and results were reviewed to verify agreement and reported according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis).

RESULTS

Positive results for translation apps included better communication, but with possible limitations, and reduced consultation time. Positive results for health promotion apps included improved quality of life and better management of chronic illnesses.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the apps had good levels of acceptability, though only half had their efficacy evaluated. In those evaluations, the endpoints were mostly related to reported behavior change and knowledge improvement, which is common for evaluations of health promotion programs. In the future, as more health apps are created, it is essential that apps that claim to have a public health objective undergo a rigorous evaluation of their acceptability, efficacy, and actual use. Indicators of outcomes beyond changes in behavior and knowledge should be reported; change in health status or access to care should also be reported. This systematic review has helped us note the characteristics associated with improved acceptability and efficacy, which can be helpful for the development of future apps.
Evaluation of the Implementation and Effectiveness of Community-Based Brain-Computer Interface Cognitive Group Training in Healthy Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Randomized Controlled Implementation Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Yeo Pei Shi , Nguyen Tu Ngoc , Ng Mary Pei Ern , Choo Robin Wai Munn , Yap Philip Lin Kiat , Ng Tze Pin , Wee Shiou Liang
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Cognitive training can improve cognition in healthy older adults.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives are to evaluate the implementation of community-based computerized cognitive training (CCT) and its effectiveness on cognition, gait, and balance in healthy older adults.

METHODS

A single-blind randomized controlled trial with baseline and follow-up assessments was conducted at two community centers in Singapore. Healthy community-dwelling adults aged 55 years and older participated in a 10-week CCT program with 2-hour instructor-led group classes twice a week. Participants used a mobile app to play games targeting attention, memory, decision making, visuospatial abilities, and cognitive flexibility. Implementation was assessed at the participant, provider, and community level (eg, reach, implementation, and facilitators and barriers). Effectiveness measures were the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), Color Trails Test 2 (CTT-2), Berg Balance Scale, and GAITRite walkway measures (single and dual task gait speed, dual task cost, and single and dual task gait variability index [GVI]).

RESULTS

A total of 94 healthy community-dwelling adults participated in the CCT program (mean age 68.8 [SD 6.3] years). Implementation measures revealed high reach (125/155, 80.6%) and moderate adherence but poor penetration of sedentary older adults (43/125, 34.4%). The effectiveness data were based on intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analysis. In the ITT analysis, single task GVI increased (b=2.32, P=.02, 95% CI [0.30 to 4.35]) and RBANS list recognition subtest deteriorated (b=–0.57, P=.01, 95% CI [–1.00 to –0.14]) in both groups. In the PP analysis, time taken to complete CTT-2 (b=–13.5, P=.01, 95% CI [–23.95 to –3.14]; Cohen d effect size = 0.285) was faster in the intervention group. Single task gait speed was not statistically significantly maintained in the intervention group (b=5.38, P=.06, 95% CI [–0.30 to 11.36]) and declined in the control group (Cohen d effect size = 0.414). PP analyses also showed interaction terms for RBANS list recall subtest (b=–0.36, P=.08, 95% CI [–0.75 to 0.04]) and visuospatial domain (b=0.46, P=.08, 95% CI [–0.05 to 0.96]) that were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

CCT can be implemented in community settings to improve attention and executive function among healthy older adults. Findings help to identify suitable healthy aging programs that can be implemented on a larger scale within communities.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04439591; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04439591
Current Competencies of Game Facilitators and Their Potential Optimization in Higher Education: Multimethod Study (Preprint)
Authors: Baalsrud Hauge Jannicke , Söbke Heinrich , Bröker Thomas , Lim Theodore , Luccini Angelo Marco , Kornevs Maksims , Meijer Sebastiaan
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Serious games can be a powerful learning tool in higher education. However, the literature indicates that the learning outcome in a serious game depends on the facilitators’ competencies. Although professional facilitators in commercial game-based training have undergone specific instruction, facilitators in higher education cannot rely on such formal instruction, as game facilitation is only an occasional part of their teaching activities.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to address the actual competencies of occasional game facilitators and their perceived competency deficits.

METHODS

Having many years of experience as professional and occasional facilitators, we (n=7) defined requirements for the occasional game facilitator using individual reflection and focus discussion. Based on these results, guided interviews were conducted with additional occasional game facilitators (n=4) to check and extend the requirements. Finally, a group of occasional game facilitators (n=30) answered an online questionnaire based on the results of the requirement analysis and existing competency models.

RESULTS

Our review produced the following questions: Which competencies are needed by facilitators and what are their training needs? What do current training courses for occasional game facilitators in higher education look like? How do the competencies of occasional game facilitators differ from other competencies required in higher education? The key findings of our analysis are that a mix of managerial and technical competencies is required for facilitating serious games in higher educational contexts. Further, there is a limited or no general competence model for game facilitators, and casual game facilitators rarely undergo any specific, formal training.

CONCLUSIONS

The results identified the competencies that game facilitators require and a demand for specific formal training. Thus, the study contributes to the further development of a competency model for game facilitators and enhances the efficiency of serious games.
Estimation of the Life of Spiroid Gears by Wear Taking into Account the Equivalent Torque
Authors: Anferov V. N. , Zaitsev A. V.
Published: November 2020

Обоснована целесообразность применения спироидных передач в приводах и механизмах подъемно-транс­портных и строительных машин. Отмечены характерные достоинства указанных передач, позволяющие проектировать приводы машин с улучшенными технико-экономическими показателями.Приведены сведения об основных производителях спироидных передач в России и за рубежом.Представлено краткое описание и анализ основных причин выхода из строя механизмов и приводов машин на основе передач зацеплением, а также передач червячного класса в результате их эксплуатации и действия контактных нагрузок на активных поверхностях зубьев зубчатых колес, что приводит к неисправностям, поломкам, отказам в виде износа, задиров, истирания. Описан существующий метод расчета на выносливость с учетом графика изменения значений нагрузок и количества циклов их действия на контактную выносливость и на выносливость зубьев при изгибе, используемый при расчетах на прочность прямозубых и косозубых цилиндрических передач.Обоснована необходимость создания метода оценки по износу спироидных передач с учетом ступенчатого режима действия нагрузок на основе анализа режимов эксплуатации приводов подъемно-транспортных машин и оборудования, где применяется данный вид передач.Предложенный метод проиллюстрирован примером расчета ресурса спироидного редуктора тяговой лебедки укладочного крана.