bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Narcissistic Personality Inventory 8: Validation of a Brief Measure of Narcissistic Personality
Authors: Schmalbach Bjarne , Zenger Markus , Nanette Tibubos Ana , Borkenhagen Ada , Strauss Bernhard , Brähler Elmar
Published: August 2020

The present study was conducted with the aim of constructing and validating a short form of the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI). The NPI is the most widely-applied measure for the assessment of narcissistic personality traits and, therefore, it is of great relevance for many research questions in personality and social psychology. To develop the short scale, we first found the optimal eight-item solution among all valid combinations of the NPI-15 items in an exploratory subsample (n = 1,165) of our complete representative sample of the German general population. We then validated this model in a confirmatory subsample (n = 1,126). Additionally, we examined its invariance across age groups and sex, as well as its reliability,  as well as construct and predictive validity —comparing it to the NPI-15. Our results indicate that the NPI-8 is a valid and reliable measure of narcissistic personality with minimal losses compared to the 15-item version. Particularly where brevity and an economical assessment are desired, the NPI-8 should be considered.
Factors determining the use of cloud computing in enterprise management in the EU (considering the type of economic activity)
Authors: Machuga Roman
Published: August 2020

The use of cloud technology in business provides for many benefits. The use of cloud computing in business management varies greatly across the EU. The answer to the question of what factors influence the level of cloud computing usage in enterprises can be used to boost the utilization of cloud technologies and contribute to their popularization in Poland.This study aims to identify the factors and assess their influence on the level of cloud computing use in enterprise management, considering business activity types.The study is based on secondary data published periodically by the Eurostat. The study uses the r-Pearson correlation analysis. Statistical data for all EU countries for the period 2014–2018 was analyzed. Nine factors were selected for the correlation analysis. After verifying the research hypothesis, it was proven that there is a statistically significant relationship between the extent to which cloud computing is used in enterprises with different types of business activities and the selected factors. It was clearly shown that the percentage of the ICT sector in national GDP has no impact on the use of cloud technologies. Other research hypotheses were confirmed or partially confirmed.A ranking of factors influencing the use of cloud technologies in enterprises, taking into account the type of business activity, was compiled. The obtained results will be useful to theoreticians and practitioners in developing a company’s growth strategy and making decisions on modernizing the information structure or company virtualization. AcknowledgmentThis paper emerged as part of the work on a grant for a research project conducted by the research and teaching staff of the Faculty of Economic Sciences at the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn in 2020. The title of the project is “Information as a factor in managing municipal, water and energy resources”.
Processo Decisório nos Conselhos Gestores de Políticas Públicas em Saúde de Minas Gerais
Authors: Silva Edson Arlindo , Passador Claudia Souza , Lopes Bruno De Jesus , Silva João Paulo
Published: August 2020

O estudo teve como objetivo central analisar o processo decisório dos Conselhos Regionais de Saúde sob a ótica dos princípios de participação e deliberação por intermédio de abordagem qualitativa, com base em estudos de casos múltiplos de caráter interpretativo. Foi realizada pesquisa em profundidade com perspectiva de servir como estudo preliminar para outros estudos mais diversificados. Esta pesquisa em profundidade se deu em duas etapas: realizou-se entrevistas com conselheiros(as) representantes titulares e suplentes dos conselhos municipais/regionais estudados, participou-se de reuniões e fóruns organizados pelos conselhos, com o uso da técnica de pesquisa Observação Não Participante, permitindo maior proximidade e detalhamento na obtenção de informações/dados. Os resultados apontaram que existem preocupações primordiais nos Conselhos de Saúde em exercer o papel fiscalizador e de melhoria da saúde local e regional, embora existam limites reconhecidos de atuação por parte dos(as) conselheiros(as) e críticas a respeito da atuação incipiente em alguns casos. A experiência vivenciada por parte dos(as) conselheiros(as), particularmente pela atuação como lideranças comunitárias e afiliados a partidos políticos/sindicatos, também é fator relevante para influenciar nas tomadas de decisões sobre ações e políticas públicas direcionadas à saúde. Constatou-se que as redes sociais obtiveram papel de destaque para o estreitamento da comunicação entre Conselhos de Saúde e a comunidade atingida por suas ações. Conclusivamente, o estudo revela o interesse da população pelos serviços ligados aos Conselhos de Saúde, ações de engajamento participativo, transmissão de competência aos conselheiros(as), estreitamento da gestão pública compartilhada mediante novas políticas de cooperação, criação de conselhos itinerantes, investimento em infraestrutura e melhorias na qualidade de prestação de contas e fiscalização dos conselhos.
Relação entre Eficiência da Gestão Pública e Desenvolvimento Socioeconômico: um estudo nos municípios cearenses
Authors: Crisóstomo Vicente Lima , Silva Clayton Robson Moreira da
Published: August 2020

Este estudo analisa a relação entre eficiência da gestão pública e desenvolvimento socioeconômico nos municípios cearenses. Utilizou-se o método de Análise Envoltória de Dados (Data Envelopment Analysis – DEA) para medir a eficiência em três diferentes dimensões: (i) educação; (ii) saúde; e (iii) emprego e renda. Além disso, elaborou-se o Índice de Eficiência da Gestão Pública (IEGP) por meio da ponderação entre as três dimensões da eficiência, que foi utilizado para medir a eficiência geral dos municípios. O desenvolvimento socioeconômico foi medido pelo Índice FIRJAN de Desenvolvimento Municipal (IFDM), de forma geral e em suas três dimensões (educação, saúde e emprego e renda). A amostra é composta pelos 184 municípios cearenses e o período analisado foi de 2007 a 2016. Utilizou-se estatística descritiva e testes de diferença entre médias. Os resultados apontam que a eficiência geral e das dimensões educação, e emprego e renda apresentaram relação positiva com o desenvolvimento socioeconômico, demonstrando a capacidade destas dimensões da eficiência em gerar desenvolvimento.
Política Pública de Turismo e Desenvolvimento Local: análise sob o enfoque da escala humana
Authors: Santos Aychá Freitas , Pereira João Pedro De Castro Nunes
Published: August 2020

Desde o final do Século XIX, várias abordagens sobre o tema do desenvolvimento foram discutidas na literatura acadêmica, em especial a abordagem do desenvolvimento vinculada a concepção econômica. Entretanto, a partir da década de 1980, outras abordagens foram ganhando espaço no ambiente acadêmico, que passa a dar espaço para abordagens com enfoque social, envolvendo temáticas abrangendo as políticas públicas direcionadas a educação, saúde, moradia, saneamento, lazer etc. Neste novo cenário de desenvolvimento, com características sociais, é que surgem autores buscando analisar a satisfação das necessidades humanas básicas. Para fins de estudo, utilizou-se a abordagem sobre Escala Humana de Max-Neef (1994) como fator central do estudo sobre as políticas públicas vinculadas ao setor turístico no Estado da Bahia. Diante do exposto, a pesquisa tem como objetivo geral propor uma estrutura analítica para avaliação das políticas públicas do turismo, enquanto agente de promoção do desenvolvimento local, sob a ótica da Escala Humana. Para tanto, optou-se pelo recorte da análise dos resultados do PROETUR, considerada uma das principais ações associadas a Política Nacional de Turismo. A opção metodológica se valeu da avaliação de indicadores sociais e econômicos associados ao conceito da escala humana. Os resultados encontrados apontam para a pertinência da estrutura proposta que sob esta ótica, aponta uma necessidade premente de que as Políticas Públicas de Turismo priorizem sua atenção as zonas turísticas mais afastadas do litoral baiano.
Análise da Expansão Urbana e Perspectivas de Uso dos Espaços Públicos no Município de Francisco Beltrão-PR
Authors: Gois Vanessa Franciele de , Mello Nilvania Aparecida de
Published: August 2020

O acentuado crescimento das cidades brasileiras registrado nos últimos anos incorre em constantes mudanças dos hábitos, costumes, culturas e valores sociais, requerendo atenção às necessidades dos habitantes aos espaços públicos urbanos. Esse desenvolvimento causa mudança ao meio ambiente comprometendo a paisagem urbana pois as áreas públicas de lazer proporcionam qualidade de vida aos usuários quando planejadas pelos gestores públicos na distribuição da malha urbana, as áreas verdes têm papel importante na relação da melhoria microclimática, da ação contra a poluição, barreira acústica e conforto lumínico para aqueles que desfrutam do espaço. O artigo implementa uma análise da apropriação das praças na cidade de Francisco Beltrão/PR identificando as suas áreas verdes. Estas análises foram feitas com intuito de localizar com tal conhecimento das normativas municipais buscando apontar as possibilidades de um melhor uso para uma forma de vida mais ativa explorando a arborização. Foram traçados como ferramentas de pesquisa, inicialmente, o referencial teórico e, posteriormente, os estudos de caso das praças distribuídas nos bairros da cidade, listadas pela Prefeitura Municipal para as quais pudemos validar, analisar e compreender. Ao final da análise, relacionamos suas áreas verdes para servir para a requalificação em novos programas que venham a enaltece-la.
Educação Profissional e Tecnológica para o Desenvolvimento Regional no Brasil: a atuação do Instituto Federal de Santa Catarina
Authors: Filippim Eliane Salete , Moreschi Rafael Klein
Published: August 2020

O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar a atuação dos Institutos Federais de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia (IFs) e a sua aderência ao papel da Educação Profissional e Tecnológica (EPT) de promoção do desenvolvimento regional. Para tal foi utilizado, como recorte analítico, a região do Oeste de Santa Catarina, Sul do Brasil e, como foco, o estudo do caso do Instituto Federal de Santa Catarina (IFSC), representado pelos três campi que constituíram as unidades de análise do estudo: Chapecó, São Miguel do Oeste e Xanxerê. Para efetivação da pesquisa foi adotada abordagem predominantemente qualitativa, valendo-se de investigação bibliográfica, documental e de campo (entrevistas, observação e questionários). A Análise de Conteúdo foi utilizada como técnica de análise e os dados foram triangulados entre si e cotejados com a teoria. Os resultados da pesquisa apontam que a atuação dos IFs os distancia do papel para o qual foram criados, reduzindo sua contribuição à qualificação de mão de obra para o mercado de trabalho, sobretudo, por meio da Educação Profissional Técnica de Nível Médio (EPTNM). Verificou-se também que a legislação educacional brasileira, inclusive o Plano de Desenvolvimento Institucional (PDI) do IFSC, trata a EPT como importante política pública voltada ao desenvolvimento regional e do país. No entanto, a cultura interna da instituição, que tem suas raízes nos preconceitos históricos atribuídos a essa modalidade educacional no Brasil, não permite que o IFSC se consolide como ferramenta de aplicação dessa política pública.
Desafios e Críticas ao Modelo de Hélice Tríplice: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Mineiro Andréa Aparecida da Costa , Souza Thais Assis , Castro Cleber Carvalho de
Published: August 2020

As críticas e desafios ao modelo de HT precisam ser consideradas, compreendidas e transpostas, de forma que novos modelos como a Hélice Quádrupla e Quíntupla possam ser implantados, direcionando a melhores resultados para o processo de geração da inovação e do conhecimento. Por esta lente, este artigo tem como objetivo identificar os principais desafios e críticas associadas ao modelo de HT a partir de uma revisão integrativa. Para tanto, os estudos foram sistematizados de forma a identificar os principais objetivos da pesquisa; abordagens teóricas; metodologia e objeto de estudo; as críticas da HT; e contextos associados. Adicionalmente foi proposta uma síntese como agenda futura. Resultados apresentam um panorama onde os estudos sobre as críticas estão concentrados na Europa e, entre as principais críticas ao modelo estão: diferenças nos objetivos; falhas na cooperação e problemas de comunicação entre os atores da HT; falha ao considerar o contexto e aspectos globais; falta de um ator ou representante líder; ser um modelo top down e não considerar os problemas culturais. Ademais, os contextos desafiadores para o modelo de HT são as regiões periféricas onde há baixa densidade de P&D, regiões onde a universidade tenha um papel secundário, além de localidades com atores que apresentam sistemas burocráticos.
Application of Environmetrics tools for geochemistry, water quality assessment and apportionment of pollution sources in Deepor Beel, Assam, India
Authors: Dash Siddhant , Borah Smitom Swapna , Kalamdhad Ajay S.
Published: August 2020

The present study uses four Environmetrics tools: hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), discriminant analysis (DA), principal component analysis (PCA), and positive matrix factorization (PMF) for the assessment of water quality and geochemistry of Deepor Beel, Assam, India. The hierarchical clustering classified the 23 sampling locations into three clusters, classifying them as sites of high, low, and moderate contamination respectively. The DA of the water quality dataset resulted in 9 parameters (EC, TDS, TSS, , Na+, Mg, Cd, Pb and OrgN), primarily responsible for the discrimination of the clusters. PCA was then employed on the normalized dataset for the identification of potential pollution sources. PCA yielded two significant principal components, describing anthropogenic and natural factors defining the water contamination. Finally, PMF was employed on the dataset matrix, with four pre-defined factors. Leaching from Boragaon landfill site, surface water runoff, discharge of effluents from the industries in the wetland and discharge from Basistha River were found to be the major contributors. The results of this study provide a comprehensive correlation between water quality parameters and their sources, which would thereby assist in better planning and management of wetland restoration.
Optimization study of biosorption of toxic metals from mining wastewater using Azadirachta indica bark adsorbents
Authors: Adetoro Ezekiel A. , Ojoawo Samson O.
Published: August 2020

The effectiveness of two Azadirachta indica bark activated carbons (ABAC) for the removal of selected toxic metals from mining wastewater and the attendant challenge of multivariate factors in the process were enhanced through optimization studies. Experimental design was carried out using adsorbent dosage, agitation rate, contact time, grain size, pH and temperature as independent variables. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted using the experimental design result, then the experimental data obtained were optimized using Design-Expert software and the results validated. Optimum values for ABAC-NaOH adsorbent were 1.999 g of adsorbent dosage, 149.73 rpm agitation rate, 119.55 min contact time, 2 mm grain size, pH of 7 and 30 °C temperature; while for ABAC-HCl adsorbent the optimum values were 3.993 g of adsorbent dosage, 150 rpm agitation rate, 120 min contact time, 2 mm grain size, pH of 7.001 and 30 °C temperature. These resulted in 100% removal efficiencies for all the selected toxic metals with standard errors of between 0.02 and 2.72%. So the optimization process is a very useful tool in adsorption studies. It has the merits of being economical, energy and time saving, and is therefore strongly recommended for the biosorption of toxic metals from mining wastewater using Azadirachta indica adsorbent.
Lead Finding from Selected Flavonoids with Antiviral (SARS-CoV-2) Potentials Against COVID-19: An In-silico Evaluation
Authors: Gorla Uma Sankar , Rao Koteswara , Kulandaivelu Uma Sankar , Alavala Rajasekhar Reddy , Panda Siva Prasad
Published: August 2020

Background:

COVID-19 is a pandemic respiratory contagious viral (SARS-CoV-2) disease
associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Currently, there are no effective preventive
or treatment strategies for COVID-19 and it has been declared as a global health emergency
by WHO. In silico molecular docking studies can be useful to predict the binding affinity between
the phytocompound and the target protein and play a vital role in finding an inhibitor
through structure-based drug design.

Objective:

In this aspect, our objective was to screen essential flavonoids against possible protein
targets such as SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein receptor binding domain (RBD-S) and host Angiotensin
Converting Enzyme-2 protease domain (PD-ACE-2) using in silico molecular docking
studies.

Methods:

Approximately 49 flavonoids were identified and were evaluated for their drug-likeness
based on Lipinski rule, bioactivity scores, antiviral and toxicity profiles using SwissADME, Molinspiration,
PASS and GUSAR online tools. The flavonoids that passed Lipinski rule were subjected
to in silico analysis through molecular docking on RBD-S and PD-ACE-2 using Molegro Virtual
Docker v6.0.

Results:

The bioactive flavonoids that showed NIL violations and were found in compliance with
Lipinski rule were selected for docking studies. In silico analysis reported that biochanin A and silymarin
bind significantly at the active sites of RBD-S and PD-ACE-2 with a MolDock score of
-78.41and -121.28 kcal/mol respectively. Bioactivity scores, antiviral potential and toxicity profiles
were predicted for the top interacting phytocompounds and substantial relevant data was reported.

Conclusion:

The current outcomes created a new paradigm for understanding biochanin A and silymarin
bioflavonoids as potent inhibitors of RBD-S and PD-ACE-2 targets respectively. Further
work can be extended to confirm their therapeutic potential for COVID-19.
Small Molecule Regulation of Stem Cells that Generate Bone, Chondrocyte, and Cardiac Cells
Authors: Cashman John R.
Published: August 2020

:

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are stem cells (SCs) that can self-renew and differentiate into a
myriad of cell types. The process of developing stemness is determined by signaling molecules that drive
stem cells to a specific lineage. For example, ESCs can differentiate into mature cells (e.g., cardiomyocytes)
and mature cardiomyocytes can be characterized for cell beating, action potential, and ion channel
function. A goal of this Perspective is to show how small molecules can be used to differentiate ESCs into
cardiomyocytes and how this can reveal novel aspects of SC biology. This approach can also lead to the
discovery of new molecules of use in cardiovascular disease.

:

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) afford the ability to produce unlimited numbers of normal
human cells. The creation of patient-specific hiPSCs provides an opportunity to study cell models of human
disease. The second goal is to show that small molecules can stimulate hiPSC commitment to cardiomyocytes.
How iPSCs can be used in an approach to discover new molecules of use in cardiovascular
disease will also be shown in this study.

:

Adult SCs, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), can likewise participate in self-renewal and multilineage
differentiation. MSCs are capable of differentiating into osteoblasts, adipocytes or chondrocytes.
A third goal of this Perspective is to describe differentiation of MSCs into chondrogenic and osteogenic
lineages. Small molecules can stimulate MSCs to specific cell fate both in vitro and in vivo. In this Perspective,
some recent examples of applying small molecules for osteogenic and chondrogenic cell fate
determination are summarized. Underlying molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involved are
described. Small molecule-based modulation of stem cells shows insight into cell regulation and potential
approaches to therapeutic strategies for MSC-related diseases.
Nucleosides and Nucleoside Analogues as Emerging Antiviral Drugs
Authors: Elzagheid Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: August 2020

Nucleosides and their analogues have been in use for many years and have become essential
for treating patients with viral infections. Many additional nucleoside drugs have been approved
over the past decades. This strongly demonstrates how important these compounds are and the crucial
role they play. Given that a significant amount of research and literature has been documented
regarding nucleoside analogues, this review article mainly focuses on nucleosides and nucleoside analogues
that have proven to play a significant role in the treatment of known viral infections. This article
covers the names, structures, applications, toxicity, and mode of action of relevant nucleoside
analogues.
Aspects of Matrix Effects in Applications of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry to Catecholamine Analysis-A Review
Authors: Özcan Saniye , Levent Serkan , Can Nafiz Öncü
Published: August 2020

Background:

Recently, liquid chromatography based on tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/
MS) has become an efficient tool in analyzes of many compounds in various biological matrices.
However, as known by researchers, these biological matrices cause various interferences by suppressing
(ion suppression) or increasing ionization (ion enhancement). Since this challenge was recognized
in the 1990s, many studies have been published on it, and its causes have been reviewed
countless times for various compounds. However, none of the current studies specifically addressed
aspects of matrix effects that have to do with catecholamines.

Discussion:

This review will focus on these issues, critically discussing experiments and results of
matrix effects in LC-MS/MS applications on catecholamine analysis in various biological matrices.
Moreover, it can guide the performance of studies on matrix effects in LC-MS/MS procedures in
bioanalytical systems.

Conclusion:

This article is useful for academics such as analytical chemists, pharmacologists and also
members of the pharmaceutical industry working on catecholamines and liquid chromatographymass
spectrometry.
The Natural Flavonoid Naringenin Inhibits the Cell Growth of Wilms Tumor in Children by Suppressing TLR4/NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Li Hongtao , Chen Peng , Chen Lei , Wang Xinning
Published: August 2020

Background:

Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is usually activated in Wilms Tumor (WT) cells and plays a critical role in WT development.

Objective:

The study's purpose was to screen for a NF-κB inhibitor from the natural product library and explore its effects on WT development.

Methods:

Luciferase assay was employed to assess the effects of natural chemicals on NF-κB activity. CCK-8 assay was conducted to assess cell growth in response to naringenin. WT xenograft model was established to analyze the effect of naringenin in vivo. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot were performed to examine the mRNA and protein levels of relative genes, respectively.

Results:

Naringenin displayed a significant inhibitory effect on NF-κB activation in SK-NEP-1 cells. In SKNEP- 1 and G-401 cells, naringenin inhibited p65 phosphorylation. Moreover, naringenin suppressed TNF-α- induced p65 phosphorylation in WT cells. Naringenin inhibited TLR4 expression at both mRNA and protein levels in WT cells. CCK-8 staining showed that naringenin inhibited cell growth of the two above WT cells in doseand time-dependent manner, whereas Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4) overexpression partially reversed the above phenomena. Besides, naringenin suppressed WT tumor growth in a dose- and time-dependent manner in vivo. Western blot found that naringenin inhibited TLR4 expression and p65 phosphorylation in WT xenograft tumors.

Conclusion:

Naringenin inhibits WT development via suppressing TLR4/NF-κB signaling.
Determining Serum Levels of IL-10 and IL-17 in Patients with Low Back Pain Caused by Lumbar Disc Degeneration
Authors: Banimostafavi Elham Sadat , Fakhar Mahdi , Abediankenari Saeid , Alizadeh-Navaei Reza , Mehdipour Khashayar , Omrani-Nava Versa , Majidi Hadi
Published: August 2020

Background:

Low Back Pain (LBP) is a common health problem that affects different
aspects of a person's life. Degeneration of the intervertebral disc is a major cause of LBP. Interleukin-
17 (IL-17) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine. In contrast, interleukin-10 (IL-10) prevents the occurrence
of immune over-stimulation by inhibiting inflammation. The purpose of this study was to
evaluate the serum levels of these cytokines in LBP patients and in the control group.

Methods:

In a case-control study, 87 patients, including 59 patients with low back pain and 28
healthy subjects, were examined after magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) approval. After recording
demographic data, 5 ml of peripheral blood samples were obtained from the subjects, and enzyme-
linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) technique was performed to measure IL-10 and IL-17
in serum samples. All analysis was performed in the SPSS software version 20 at a significant level
of 0.05.

Result:

The case group consisted of 21 males and 38 females with mean age 49.6 yrs., and the control
group consisted of 14 males and 14 females with a mean age of 36. The mean body mass index
(BMI) was 26.5 in the patients and 25.4 in the control group (P>0.05). Serum levels of inflammatory
cytokine IL-10 and IL-17 were significantly lower and higher in patients than controls, respectively
(P=0.04, P=0.03).

Conclusion:

Differences in serum levels of IL-17 and IL-10 in the LBP group compared with the
healthy group may indicate the role of inflammatory and autoimmune processes in causing disk damage.
These findings could potentially be used by future studies to develop new LBP therapeutic
strategies.
Cancer Microbiome; Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Nallanchakravarthula Srivathsa , Amruta Narayanappa , Ramamurthy Chitteti
Published: August 2020

Background:

Microbe-host association has emerged as a modulator in modern
medicine. Cancer and its associated host microbes are collectively referred to as the cancer microbiome.
The cancer microbiome is complex, and many aspects remain unclear including metabolic
plasticity, microenvironment remodeling, cellular communications, and unique signatures within
the host, all of which have a vital role in homeostasis and pathogenesis of host physiology. However,
the role of the microbiome in cancer initiation, progression, and therapy is still poorly understood
and remains to be explored.

Objective:

The objective of this review is to elucidate the role of the microbiome in cancer
metabolism and the tumor microenvironment. It also focuses on the importance of therapeutic opportunities
and challenges in the manipulation of the cancer microbiome.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted on the role of the microbiome in cancer initiation, progression,
and therapy.

Conclusion:

The tumor microenvironment and cancer metabolism are significant in host-microbiome
interactions. The microbiome can modulate standard cancer therapies like chemotherapy
and immunotherapy. Microbiome transplantation has also been demonstrated as an effective therapy
against cancer. Furthermore, the modulation of the microbiome also has potential clinical outcomes
in modern medicine.
Formulation, Development, and Evaluation of Herbal Effervescent Mouthwash Tablet Containing Azadirachta Indica (Neem) and Curcumin for the Maintenance of Oral Hygiene
Authors: Singh Mankaran , Sharma Deepak , Kumar Dinesh , Singh Gurmeet , Swami Gaurav , Rathore Mahendra Singh
Published: August 2020

Background:

Dental caries originate due to the localized dissolution of the hard tissues of
teeth, mainly caused by acids, developed by the presence of microorganisms in the biofilm (dental
plaque) on the surface of teeth causing “cavities”. Commercially available liquid mouthwashes containing
synthetic active ingredients possess limitations like teeth staining, higher alcoholic content,
taste disturbances, xerostomia, and stability issues.

Objective:

To make the solid preparation for oral hygiene (US6428770B1) in the form of herbal effervescent
mouthwash tablet (CN106619318A, US8728446B2) using Azadirachta indica and Curcumin
having antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiplaque, and anti-inflammatory activity.

Methods:

The optimization study of effervescent granules was performed by 33 factorial design. A
total of 27 preliminary experimental batches were prepared by the fusion method, varying the amount
of citric acid, tartaric acid, and sodium bicarbonate. A complex of curcumin was prepared with hydroxyl
propyl β-cyclodextrin and further examined by scanning electron microscopy. The prepared
tablets were evaluated for pre and post-compression parameters. The in vitro antimicrobial study was
performed by Agar well diffusion method against S. mutans.

Results:

All the experimental batches of effervescent granules were evaluated for pH, effervescent
time, and CO2 content. Six batches were further selected for final tablet preparation. The results of the
pre-compression parameters revealed excellent flow properties and post-compression parameters; the
results were also significant. The antimicrobial study revealed the F3 as a final best formulation.

Conclusion:

The developed herbal formulation (F3) has a good potential to maintain oral hygiene as
compared to alcoholic mouthwash and further studies may be necessary to confirm the efficacy of the
formulation since only a single bacterial strain was assayed.
The Plastic and Functional Changes in Hippocampal Neurons During Pregnancy, Delivery and Postpartum are Reversed by Offspring Deprivation
Authors: Mostallino Maria C. , Secci Pietro P. , Paci Elena , Mura Maria L. , Maciocco Elisabetta , Sanna Enrico , Biggio Giovanni
Published: August 2020

Background:

Pregnancy and lactation are governed by hormones and neurophysiological
processes, including differential expression of trophic factors, functional and structural synaptic plasticity,
and neurogenesis in different brain areas.

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the number of neurotrophic factors, synaptic plasticity,
and neurogenesis in the hippocampus of rats during pregnancy, lactation, as well as in dams
that were deprived of their pups one week after birth or treated with Finasteride or Clomiphene.

Methods:

Adult female Sprague Dawley CD rats were treated with finasteride (25 mg/kg, subcutaneously)
or clomiphene (5 mg/kg, intragastrically) from day 12 to 18 of pregnancy. Dams during pregnancy,
lactation, and those deprived of their pups, which were sacrificed 7 days after delivery, were
used to study Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Activity-regulated Cytoskeletal (Arc)
protein expression, dendritic spine density (DSD), and cell proliferation in the hippocampus.

Results:

BDNF, Arc, and DSD markedly increased after 21 days of pregnancy (the time of delivery),
an effect that lasted for 21 days during lactation and was abolished by physiological weaning (21
days after delivery). The modifications in the mentioned parameters were associated with a dramatic
reduction of neurosteroid content when compared to estrus females. In contrast, after 21 days of
pregnancy, an increase in cell proliferation and a decrease during the first three weeks of postpartum
were observed. Finasteride and clomifene failed to modify the changes in BDNF and Arc content
elicited by pregnancy and delivery. Pups deprivation induced a rapid reduction in the amount of
BDNF, Arc, and DSD while increasing cell proliferation.

Conclusion:

In rats, the changes in plastic properties of hippocampal neurons during pregnancy, lactation,
and pups deprivation may play a crucial role in the modulation of maternal care.
Review of Self-Healing Polymers as Propituous Biomaterials
Authors: Nayak Smita , Vaidhun Bhaskar , Kedar Kiran
Published: August 2020

In the last few decades, as an understanding of polymers grew, their applications in
healthcare gained prominence. However, their widespread use was limited due to inevitable ageing,
unavoidable degradation and excessive wear and tear. In order to overcome this drawback, researchers
took inspiration from the capability of the human body to heal itself. Scientific curiosity and
focussed efforts in this direction have laid the foundation for the successful conceptualization of selfhealing
polymeric biomaterials and their commercial utilization for ancillary purposes. This review
familiarizes the readers with recent literature in self-healing polymers, their fabrication techniques as
well as applications in medical and pharmaceutical arenas. It is heartening to note that these polymeric
materials have overcome the disadvantages of conventional polymers and shown immense promise
in breakthrough technologies such as tissue engineering, anti-biofouling as well as 3D and 4D printing.
Self-healing polymers are poised to become critical supporting biomaterials in traditional disciplines
such as orthopaedics, dentistry and pharmaceutical drug delivery. Efforts are on to design novel
self-healing materials that meet the regulatory requirements of safety and biocompatibility. Research
trends indicate that self-healing polymers may play a pivotal supporting role in furthering advances
in therapeutics. The authors have, through this review, attempted to spark interest and stimulate
creative minds to work in this domain.
Non-medical medicine culture on Siwa Murti Bali School
Authors: Suryani Ni Gusti Ayu Putu , Gelgel I Putu , Dharmika Ida Bagus
Published: August 2020

This research is expected to be useful in implementing traditional medicine, especially the cultural model of non-medical medicine such as at the Siwa Murti Bali School. Based on this thought, this study is expected to be useful (1) As a material consideration for the Government, especially the Hindu Community Guidance of the Ministry of Religion of the Republic of Indonesia together with the Hindu Indonesia University in making policies regarding the culture of non-medical medicine. (2) As a material of appreciation for students who pay attention to the culture of non-medical medicine, especially the Siwa Murti Bali School. (3) To be able to preserve culture, especially Balinese culture, regarding the culture of non-medical treatment of the Siwa Murti Bali School. (4) Enriching research on the culture of non-medical medicine, especially the Siwa Murti Bali School. This research uses a qualitative approach. To find answers to problem formulations, use phenomenal theory, structural-functional theory, and reception theory. This research is focused first on pasraman, the center of the Siwa Murti Bali School, namely Banjar Tegallinggah, Padangsambian Kaja Village, West Denpasar.
A Fresh Look at Followership: A Model for Matching Followership and Leadership Styles
Authors: Bjugstad Kent , Thach Elizabeth C. , Thompson Karen J. , Morris Alan
Published: August 2020

Followership has been an understudied topic in the academic literature and an underappreciated topic among practitioners. Although it has always been important, the study of followership has become even more crucial with the advent of the information age and dramatic changes in the workplace. This paper provides a fresh look at followership by providing a synthesis of the literature and presents a new model for matching followership styles to leadership styles. The model’s practical value lies in its usefulness for describing how leaders can best work with followers, and how followers can best work with leaders.
Internet-Administered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Common Mental Health Difficulties in Parents of Children Treated for Cancer: Intervention Development and Description Study (Preprint)
Authors: Woodford Joanne , Farrand Paul , Hagström Josefin , Hedenmalm Li , von Essen Louise
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Following the end of a child’s treatment for cancer, parents may report psychological distress. However, there is a lack of evidence-based interventions that are tailored to the population, and psychological support needs are commonly unmet. An internet-administered low-intensity cognitive behavioral therapy (LICBT)–based intervention (EJDeR [internetbaserad självhjälp för föräldrar till barn som avslutat en behandling mot cancer]) may provide a solution.

OBJECTIVE

The first objective is to provide an overview of a multimethod approach that was used to inform the development of the EJDeR intervention. The second objective is to provide a detailed description of the EJDeR intervention in accordance with the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist.

METHODS

EJDeR was developed through a multimethod approach, which included the use of existing evidence, the conceptualization of distress, participatory action research, a cross-sectional survey, and professional and public involvement. Depending on the main presenting difficulty identified during assessment, LICBT behavioral activation or worry management treatment protocols are adopted for the treatment of depression or generalized anxiety disorder when experienced individually or when comorbid. EJDeR is delivered via the Uppsala University Psychosocial Care Programme (U-CARE) portal, a web-based platform that is designed to deliver internet-administered LICBT interventions and includes secure videoconferencing. To guide parents in the use of EJDeR, weekly written messages via the portal are provided by e-therapists comprising final year psychology program students with training in cognitive behavioral therapy.

RESULTS

An overview of the development process and a description of EJDeR, which was informed by the TIDieR checklist, are presented. Adaptations that were made in response to public involvement are highlighted.

CONCLUSIONS

EJDeR represents a novel, guided, internet-administered LICBT intervention for supporting parents of children treated for cancer. Adopting the TIDieR checklist offers the potential to enhance fidelity to the intervention protocol and facilitate later implementation. The intervention is currently being tested in a feasibility study (the ENGAGE study).

CLINICALTRIAL

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023708
The Relationship Between Images Posted by New Mothers on WeChat Moments and Postpartum Depression: Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang Weina , Liu Lu , Cheng Qijin , Chen Yan , Xu Dong , Gong Wenjie
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

As social media posts reflect users’ emotions, WeChat Moments, the most popular social media platform in China, may offer a glimpse into postpartum depression in the population.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the features of the images that mothers posted on WeChat Moments after childbirth and to explore the correlation between these features and the mothers' risk of postpartum depression.

METHODS

We collected the data of 419 mothers after delivery, including their demographics, factors associated with postpartum depression, and images posted on WeChat Moments. Postpartum depression was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Descriptive analyses were performed to assess the following: content of the images, presence of people, the people’s facial expressions, and whether or not memes were posted on WeChat Moments. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the image features associated with postpartum depression.

RESULTS

Compared with pictures of other people, we found that pictures of their children comprised the majority (3909/6887, 56.8%) of the pictures posted by the mothers on WeChat Moments. Among the posts showing facial expressions or memes, more positive than negative emotions were expressed. Women who posted selfies during the postpartum period were more likely to have postpartum depression (P=.003; odds ratio 2.27, 95% CI 1.33-3.87).

CONCLUSIONS

The vast majority of mothers posted images conveying positive emotions during the postpartum period, but these images may have masked their depression. New mothers who have posted selfies may be at a higher risk of postpartum depression.

CLINICALTRIAL

International Clinical Trials Registry Platform ChiCTR-ROC-16009255; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=15699
Ethical Consumer Behavior: Does Second-Hand Consumption Influence Satisfaction with Life?
Authors: Steffen Adrienne
Published: August 2020

What do we really need to live a happy life? Second-hand consumption has been proposed to be a lifestyle choice which is done voluntarily (Steffen, 2017, p. 204) and could increase peoples’ life satisfaction. Besides economic motives, many people consume second-hand for ethical reasons, e.g., to distance themselves from the consumption system, for ecological reasons, social reasons or have hedonic motivations (Guiot & Roux, 2010). Some consumers simply want to shop clever (Gregson & Crewe, 2003, p. 11), started to reduce their consumption or re-use to reduce their ecological footprint (Waight, 2013). This study assesses the relationship between second-hand consumption motivation and satisfaction with life in a structural equation model. 203 Germans participated in the online study and evaluated their motivation for second-hand consumption based on the scale of Guiot and Roux (2010). Satisfaction with life was measured with Diener, Emmons and Griffin’s (1985) Satisfaction of life scale which has been translated into German by Janke and Glöckner-Rist (2014). The findings indicate that consumers primarily buy second-hand to hunt for treasures, to find original products, to engage socially and for ethical reasons. Economic motives were also dominant. The study shows that second-hand consumption motivation does not influence satisfaction with life.
Simultaneous Analysis of Phenylephrine HCl and Ketorolac Tromethamine in Bulk and Injectable Formulations by RP-HPLC-PDA Method
Authors: Nagarjuna PJ , Tharun Kumar B , Nalluri Buchi N.
Published: August 2020

Rapid, isocratic and economical RP-HPLC-PDA method was developed for the simultaneous estimation of Phenylephrine HCl (PEH) and Ketorolac Tromethamine (KTR) in bulk and injectable dosage forms. Chromatographic separation was achieved with the Agilent Eclipse C18 column (150×4.6mm;5µ) and the mobile phase composed of methanol and 2mM Ammonium acetate in the ratio 43:57v/v at a flow rate of 1mL/min. The injection volume was 5µL and eluents were monitored at 220nm. Response was a linear function of concentration in the range 30–105 μg/mL for Phenylephrine HCl (PEH) and 10–35 μg/mL Ketorolac Tromethamine (KTR); the correlation coefficients were 0.999 and 0.999, respectively.  The method was validated and is suitable for the simultaneous estimation of PEH and KTR in bulk and injectable dosage forms.

Keywords: Ketorolac tromethamine, Phenylephrine HCl, Reverse phase HPLC, PDA detector.
Formulation, Development and Evaluation of Chewable Bi-layered Tablets for Treating Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Vasoya Ankur , Shah Sunil Kumar , Tyagi C K , Budholiya Prabhakar , Pandey Harish
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this research work was to formulate raft-forming chewable bilayer tablets of sodium alginate using a raft-forming agent along with gas-generating agents. Tablets were prepared by wet granulation and evaluated for raft strength, acid neutralization capacity, weight variation, % drug content, thickness, hardness, friability and in vitro drug release. Various raft-forming agents were used in preliminary screening. The amount of sodium alginate, amount of calcium carbonate and amount sodium bicarbonate were selected as variables. Raft strength, acid neutralization capacity and drug release at 30 min were selected as responses.Tablets containing sodium alginate were having maximum raft strength as compared with other raft-forming agents. Acid neutralization capacity and in vitro drug release of all factorial batches were found to be satisfactory. Prepared tablets were found to be pharmaceutically equivalent to the marketed product. It was concluded that raft-forming chewable bilayer tablets prepared using an optimum amount of sodium alginate, calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate could be an efficient dosage form in the treatment of gastro oesophageal reflux diseases.

Keywords: Chewable bilayer tablet, Sodium alginate, Raft forming agent, Acid Neutralizing capacity
A Study to Evaluate Pharmacoeconomics of Antihypertensive Drugs in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital
Authors: John Nimmy N , Krishnan Athira , Midhun JV , Juan Riya
Published: August 2020

Background: Hypertension is a major public health problem associated with large health burden as well as high economic burden at individual and population levels. A prospective observational study carried out in in-patients admitted to general medicine department of tertiary care hospital to evaluate the most cost effective therapy among the monotherapy of Amlodipine and combination therapy of telmisartan + hydrochlorthiazide.

Methods: A total of 120 Hypertensive patients case records prescribed with monotherapy of Amlodipine and combination therapy of Telma H were reviewed and evaluated using descriptive statistics and ‘p’ value and assessed for their financial burden based on the cost per tablet for an year, Cost effectiveness ratio for the patients with controlled Blood Pressure by using a particular drug.

Results: Out of 120 patients females were more (59.2%) and most of them were under the age group of 41-60 years. Majority of the patients had a known history of hypertension (65%). Most of the patients were prescribed with Telma H 40/12.5mg (40%) followed with Amlong 5mg (35.8%). There was a significant positive correlation (i.e., p value= 0.05) between persistence patterns of patients with drug therapy. Probability of patients with controlled Blood Pressure taking Amlong 10 mg were 82.35% followed by patients with Amlong 5mg.

Conclusion: This study clearly showed that monotherapy of amlodipine is the most cost effective therapy than combination therapy of Telma H in order to reduce financial burden to the patient as well as to decrease the complications.

Keywords: Hypertension, Pharmacoeconomics, Cost effectiveness, Blood Pressure.