bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Values and Religion: Evidence from the European Social Survey
Authors: Carneiro Ana , e Sousa Hélder Fernando Pedrosa , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Leite Ângela
Published: February 2021

Values are guiding constructs of social action that connote some actions as desirable, undesirable, acceptable, and unacceptable, containing a normative moral/ethical component, and constituting a guide for actions, attitudes, and objectives for which the human being strives. The role of religion in the development of moral and ideal behaviors is a subject of concern and object of theoretical and empirical debate in various sciences. Analyzing sociodemographic and religious variables, the present work aimed to understand the contribution of religious variables to the explanation of Schwartz’s human values and to identify an explanatory model of second-order values, i.e., self-transcendence, conservation, self-promotion, and openness to change. This study was carried out with a representative sample of the Portuguese population, consisting of 1270 participants from the European Social Survey (ESS), Round 8. Benevolence (as human motivational value) and self-transcendence (as a second-order value) were found to be the most prevalent human values among respondents, with the female gender being the one with the greatest religious identity, the highest frequency of religious practices, and valuing self-transcendence and conservation the most. Older participants had a more frequent practice and a higher religious identity than younger ones, with age negatively correlating with conservation and positively with openness to change. It was concluded that age, religious identity, and an item of religious practice contribute to explain 13.9% of the conservation variance. It was also found that age and religious practice are the variables that significantly contribute to explain 12.2% of the variance of openness to change. Despite the associations between psychological variables (values) and religious ones, it can be concluded that religious variables contribute very moderately to explain human values. The results obtained in this study raised some important issues, namely, if these weakly related themes, i.e., religiosity and human values, are the expression of people belief without belonging.
Between Level Up and Game Over: A Systematic Literature Review of Gamification in Education
Authors: Manzano-León Ana , Camacho-Lazarraga Pablo , Guerrero Miguel A. , Guerrero-Puerta Laura , Aguilar-Parra José M. , Trigueros Rubén , Alias Antonio
Published: February 2021

Educational gamification consists of the use of game elements and game design techniques in the educational context. The objective of this study is to examine the existing evidence on the impact of educational gamification on student motivation and academic performance in the last five years in order to analyze its distribution over time, educational level, variables, and most used game elements, and know the advantages of its implementation in the classroom. For this, a systematic review is proposed through the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology in three multidisciplinary databases, through an exhaustive search with inclusion and exclusion criteria on quantitative experimental studies that explore gamification in educational centers, which provide information about the most current lines of research. Fourteen studies were included in this review. These used experimental or quasi-experimental designs. Most of them report gamification as a valid learning strategy. The results support the conclusion that educational gamification has a potential impact on the academic performance, commitment, and motivation of students. Therefore, this study implies the need to expand research on the needs and challenges of students when learning with gamified techniques.
New Media Development, Sleep and Lifestyle in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Łuszczki Edyta , Bartosiewicz Anna , Bobula Gabriel , Kuchciak Maciej , Jagielski Paweł , Oleksy Łukasz , Stolarczyk Artur , Dereń Katarzyna
Published: February 2021

The number of children using portable electronic devices and the Internet has been on the increase in recent years. This study aimed to analyse how the overuse of various types of electronic devices and the Internet interfere with the sleep patterns and lifestyle of children and adolescents. This study group included 376 participants (189 girls, 187 boys) aged 6–15. The body composition estimates were obtained by means of a foot-to-foot bioelectrical impedance analysis whereas the body height was measured with the use of a stadiometer. The questionnaire survey consisted of questions concerning the children’s lifestyle, new media use, eating and sleeping habits, their physical activity as well as their socio-demographic data. The correlation of the two variables was calculated with the Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Correspondingly, the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were measured. This study indicated that the use of the media resulted in a significant drop in the study group’s physical activity but also had a negative association with their sleeping and eating habits. In conclusion, health professionals ought to provide parents with more guidance on appropriate new media use.
Destination Attractiveness and Memorable Travel Experiences in Silk Road Tourism in Uzbekistan
Authors: Raimkulov Murodjon , Juraturgunov Husanjon , Ahn Young-joo
Published: February 2021

This study explored the relationships between destination attractiveness, satisfaction, the sense of reliving, and loyalty among American tourists who had experienced Silk Road tourism in Uzbekistan. In addition, this study investigated the mediating role of the sense of reliving with regard to satisfaction and loyalty. A total of 477 respondents participated and were used for the final analysis. The results suggest that destination attractiveness includes multidimensional constructs consisting of five dimensions, namely, cultural attractiveness, natural attractiveness, the local people and superstructure, infrastructure, and price attractiveness. Cultural attractiveness, the warm hospitality of local people, and the superstructure appear to be the competitive attributes of Silk Road tourism in Uzbekistan affecting tourist satisfaction. Furthermore, the results reveal that tourist satisfaction increases loyalty. A mediating role of the sense of reliving with regard to satisfaction and loyalty was also confirmed. Tourists remember their travel experiences upon returning home, relive Silk Road travel experiences, and demonstrate their behavioral intentions. These findings can provide a deeper understanding of destination attractiveness and memorable experiences for increasing loyalty to destinations related to Silk Road tourism in Uzbekistan.
Decentralisation and Efficiency in Municipal Sports Services: Expenditure vs. Cost
Authors: Garcia-Unanue Jorge , Felipe Jose Luis , Gallardo Leonor , Majano Carlos , Perez-Lopez Gemma
Published: February 2021

The choice of service delivery form (direct management, agencification, or indirect management) is one of the most important decisions in the strategic planning of sports systems. However, its influence on efficiency has not been adequately studied in the scientific literature. The aim of this paper is to analyse the service delivery form of sports services on cost efficiency and to study the implications the use of different inputs has for the analysis of cost efficiency in sports services. To answer the objectives of the study, the analysis is divided into three stages. First, the cost efficiency of municipal sports services is estimated through the partial order-m robust frontiers using two different measures of cost (budgetary expenditures and effective cost). Then, the two cost-efficiency estimations were compared by the Li test to analyse the existence of significant differences. Finally, cost efficiency was regressed on several environmental factors by a bootstrapped truncated regression. The results show that there is no significant relationship between the different forms of management when the effective cost is included as an input. However, there is a significant relationship when the budgetary expenditure is specified as input; in this case, direct municipal management is the delivery form with the highest efficiency.
Seasonal Variations in the Chemical Composition of Indoor and Outdoor PM10 in University Classrooms
Authors: Tofful Luca , Catrambone Maria , Giusto Marco , Pareti Salvatore , Rantica Elena , Sargolini Tiziana , Canepari Silvia , Frezzini Maria Agostina , Massimi Lorenzo , Ristorini Martina , Pelliccioni Armando , Perrino Cinzia
Published: February 2021

In the VIEPI project (Integrated evaluation of the exposure to indoor particulate matter) framework, we carried out a 1-year study of the concentration and chemical composition of particulate matter (PM) in a 5 story building in the Sapienza University of Rome (Italy). Each sampling had a duration of 1 month and was carried out indoors and outdoors in six classrooms. The chemical analyses were grouped to obtain information about the main PM sources. Micro-elements in their soluble and insoluble fractions were used to trace additional sources. Indoor PM composition was dominated by soil components and, to a lesser extent, by the organics, which substantially increased when people crowded the sites. The penetration of PM components was regulated by their chemical nature and by the dimensions of the particles in which they were contained. For the first time in crowded indoor environments, three different chemical assays aimed to determine PM redox properties complemented chemical composition measurements. These preliminary tests showed that substantially different redox properties characterised atmospheric particles in indoor and outdoor sites. The innovative characteristics of this study (time duration, number of considered environments) were essential to obtain relevant information about PM composition and sources in indoor academic environments and the occupants’ role.
The Digital Transformation of the Talent Management Process: A Spanish Business Case
Authors: Martínez-Morán Pedro César , Urgoiti Jose Maria Fernández-Rico , Díez Fernando , Solabarrieta Josu
Published: February 2021

The digital transformation means that companies are redefining the process of talent management. Previous models involved functions, practices and processes that ensured a correct flow of employees towards key positions or a generic talent management view. The digital breakthrough, together with the growing panorama of competition for talent in the market, requires a different focus to enable well-grounded and agile decision-making processes in a sustainable world. The current research considers the functions that applied research has established as the limits of talent management, and that are the key topics in an employee life cycle, namely, talent attraction and acquisition, training, evaluation, and development. In addition, new tools such as employee advocacy and/or brand ambassadors have been added towards to draw conclusions about the future trends of talent management. This article examines the employee life cycle of talent attraction, and acquisition, training, evaluation, and development in the study of the main digital tools utilized in the Spanish market, by both national and multinational corporations. The results indicate that future investments are needed to correlate the digital tools and take advantage of a better employee life cycle management. The main results show a rapid increase in the number and variety of tools used in the talent acquisition process, an expanded use of social networks to enhance the scope of those processes, and conversely, a minor use of digital tools for both talent development and talent retention processes.
The Effects of Total Dissolved Carbon Dioxide on the Growth Rate, Biochemical Composition, and Biomass Productivity of Nonaxenic Microalgal Polyculture
Authors: Kandasamy Lenin C. , Neves Marcos A. , Demura Mikihide , Nakajima Mitsutoshi
Published: February 2021

The biosequestration of CO2 using microalgae has emerged as a promising means of recycling CO2 into biomass via photosynthesis, which could be used to produce biofuels as an attractive approach to CO2 mitigation. We investigated the CO2 fixation capability of the native nonaxenic microalgal culture using a 2 L photobioreactor operated in batch mode. The cultivation was carried out at varying concentrations of total dissolved CO2 (Tco2) in the bulk media ranging from 200 to 1000 mg L−1, and the temperature and light intensities were kept constant. A maximum CO2 fixation rate was observed at 400 mg L−1 of Tco2. Characteristic growth parameters such as biomass productivity, specific growth rate, maximum biomass yield, and biochemical parameters such as carbohydrate, protein, and lipids were determined and discussed. We observed that the effect of CO2 concentration on growth and biochemical composition was quite significant. The maximum biomass productivity was 22.10 ± 0.70 mg L−1 day−1, and the rate of CO2 fixation was 28.85 ± 3.00 mg L−1 day−1 at 400 mg L−1 of Tco2. The maximum carbohydrate (8.17 ± 0.49% dry cell weight) and protein (30.41 ± 0.65%) contents were observed at 400 mg L−1, whereas the lipid content (56.00 ± 0.82% dry cell weight) was the maximum at 800 mg L−1 of Tco2 in the bulk medium.
Citron Watermelon Potential to Improve Crop Diversification and Reduce Negative Impacts of Climate Change
Authors: Mandizvo Takudzwa , Odindo Alfred , Mashilo Jacob
Published: February 2021

Citron watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides (L.H. Bailey) Mansf. ex Greb.) is an underexploited and under-researched crop species with the potential to contribute to crop diversification in Sub-Saharan Africa. The species is cultivated in the drier parts of Southern Africa, mainly by smallholder farmers who maintain a wide range of landrace varieties. Understanding the molecular and morpho-physiological basis for drought adaptation in citron watermelon under these dry environments can aid in the identification of suitable traits for drought-tolerance breeding and improve food system resilience among smallholder farmers, thus adding to crop diversification. This paper reviews the literature on drought adaptation of Citrullus lanatus spp. (C3 xerophytes), using the systematic review approach. The review discusses the potential role of citron watermelon in adding to crop diversification, alternative food uses, and potential by-products that can be processed from the crop, and it analyzes the role of Sub-Saharan African farmers play as key actors in conserving citron watermelon germplasm and biodiversity. Finally, the review provides a summary of significant findings and identifies critical knowledge gaps for further research.
Linking Social Media Marketing Activities to Revisit Intention through Brand Trust and Brand Loyalty on the Coffee Shop Facebook Pages: Exploring Sequential Mediation Mechanism
Authors: Ibrahim Blend , Aljarah Ahmad , Sawaftah Dima
Published: February 2021

Social media marketing (SMM) is a new field that involves the marketing of goods, services, information, and ideas via online networks and social media. Drawing on the stimulus-organism-response framework, this study aims to examine how social-media-marketing activities (SMMA) affect brand loyalty, brand trust, and revisit intention (returning to the same place in the future) for coffee shops in Northern Cyprus. Empirical evidence was collected from 415 undergraduate students who follow specific coffee shops on Facebook, and a structural equation modeling approach was applied. The results showed a significant positive influence of SMMA on brand loyalty, brand trust, and revisit intention. The findings show that SMMA are a stronger predictor of revisit intention than brand loyalty and brand trust. Furthermore, brand loyalty and brand trust are significant mediators in the relationship between SMMA and revisit intention. Additionally, the sequential mediation effects of brand loyalty and brand trust in the relationship between SMMA and revisit intention are supported. Overall, with effective SMMA from coffee shops on Facebook, the customer grows confidence in the brand, which increases the level of brand loyalty. This, in turn, encourages revisit intention of the customer. As a result, brand executives on social media platforms (in this case, Facebook) should promote specific SMMA for their brands and engage in such activities to creates brand trust and brand loyalty. These findings contribute to the literature by examining the relationship between SMMA and revisit intention and exploring how SMMA affect revisit intention by adding brand loyalty and brand trust as mediators.
Spatiotemporal Variations and Risk Analysis of Chinese Typhoon Disasters
Authors: Chen Fang , Jia Huicong , Du Enyu , Wang Lei , Wang Ning , Yang Aqiang
Published: February 2021

Typhoons are a product of air-sea interaction, which are often accompanied by high winds, heavy rains, and storm surges. It is significant to master the characteristics and pattern of typhoon activity for typhoon warning and disaster prevention and mitigation. We used the Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) index as the hazard index; the probability of exceeding, or reaching, return period or exceeding a certain threshold was used to describe the probability of hazard occurrence. The results show that the overall spatial distribution of typhoon hazards conforms to a northeast-southwest zonal distribution, decreasing from the southeast coast to the northwest. Across the six typical provinces of China assessed here, data show that Hainan possesses the highest hazard risk. Hazard index is relatively high, mainly distributed between 0.005 and 0.015, while the probability of exceeding a hazard index greater than 0.015 is 0.15. In light of the four risk levels assessed here, the hazard index that accounts for the largest component of the study area is mainly distributed up to 0.0010, all mild hazard levels. Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Fujian, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu as well as six other provinces and autonomous regions are all areas with high hazard risks. The research results can provide important scientific evidence for the sustainable development of China’s coastal provinces and cities. The outcomes of this study may also provide the scientific basis for the future prevention and mitigation of marine disasters as well as the rationalization of related insurance.
Network Governance and the Evolving Urban Regeneration Policymaking in China: A Case Study of Insurgent Practices in Enninglu Redevelopment Project
Authors: Zhao Nannan , Liu Yuting , Wang June
Published: February 2021

The network governance approach has been adopted by many researchers and practitioners with respect to policy analysis and modern state governance. This study utilizes a broadly defined network-based framework to trace the evolution of urban regeneration policymaking in Guangzhou, China. Drawing upon the notions of “network” and previous scholars’ work on participatory planning, this study focuses on the changing relational networks among the various actors that are engaged in the urban regeneration process and the factors motivating these changes. In so doing, this study uses the ongoing Enninglu redevelopment project (2006–) as an illustrative case study. By examining the insurgent practices in the Enninglu redevelopment process, this study argues that urban redevelopment policymaking in China has changed twofold. First, the planning regime has transited from state-dominant practices to one that is primarily driven by the local government, the enhanced role of higher education institutions and experts as a “professional interest group”, and the increased participation of non-state actors in the policymaking process. Second, the decision-making mechanism has transformed from an interventionism-oriented system to a polyarchy-oriented system in which both the advocacy coalition and opposition coalition are embedded in the governance network. Additionally, the emergence of insurgent practices in Enninglu suggests an emerging shift toward substantive participatory governance in the Chinese context. From a network perspective, this study attempts to contribute to the understanding of the evolving urban regeneration policymaking in China and broader governance networks in urban regeneration practices.
Non-Revenue Water in Malaysia: Influence of Water Distribution Pipe Types
Authors: Jones Lim Jen Nee , Kong Daniel , Tan Boon Thong , Rassiah Puspavathy
Published: February 2021

Reducing non-revenue water (NRW) within a water distribution network may lead to significant water savings. Most existing literature tend to focus on the design and implementation aspects of NRW loss through better management of leaks, reservoir overflow, and water theft. In contrast, this paper examines the association between the various water pipe types and their respective impact on NRW loss in an emerging country. Malaysia is currently listed under emerging and developing economies category in the International Monetary Fund World Economic Outlook Database (October 2020). A correlation analysis is carried out using historical data obtained from the Malaysian water authority, covering fiscal years 2013 to 2017 (inclusive of both years). Further analysis is carried out by measuring the number of cases reported for two selected states in relation to the type of pipe materials used. Results show that there is a significant correlation between mild steel and polyethylene pipes to NRW loss. This study provides a better understanding of how water pipe types affect NRW loss, which is pertinent to developing best practices in the marketplace to manage NRW loss and protect water resources.
Evolutive 3D Modeling: A Proposal for a New Generative Design Methodology
Authors: Nebot Jaime , Peña Juan A. , López Gómez Carmelo
Published: February 2021

At present, traditional 3D modeling programs consist of a set of tools that reflect conventional means of mechanical manufacturing and have limitations in relation with the current manufacturing capacities. On the other hand, organic and morphing 3D modeling programs are designed to transform a model from one known shape to another also known shape. Generative design helps the designers to detach themselves during the design process and can provide them with completely unexpected geometrical solutions. In this paper, starting from 3D morphing techniques and genetic algorithms, a new methodology of product shape definition is developed, capable of imitating processes that occur in nature and aimed at creating new and different product designs. This methodology enables to overcome the limitations imposed by design fixation and allows better exploitation of the great possibilities granted by the new manufacturing techniques, most notably additive manufacturing. The initial process of research and information gathering gives this work a solid basis to develop the new methodology. The results of this initial process are briefly resumed in this paper in order to explain the main motivation for developing this work. The workflow of this methodology is presented as a theoretical process, since its implementation has not been, at least for the moment, put into practice. Before presenting the conclusion for this proposal, several examples have been formulated in order to help the reader to catch the point of the entire process.
Fractional-Order Analysis of Modified Chua’s Circuit System with the Smooth Degree of 3 and Its Microcontroller-Based Implementation with Analog Circuit Design
Authors: Wang Junxia , Xiao Li , Rajagopal Karthikeyan , Akgul Akif , Cicek Serdar , Aricioglu Burak
Published: February 2021

In the paper, we futher consider a fractional-order system from a modified Chua’s circuit system with the smooth degree of 3 proposed by Fu et al. Bifurcation analysis, multistability and coexisting attractors in the the fractional-order modified Chua’s circuit are studied. In addition, microcontroller-based circuit was implemented in real digital engineering applications by using the fractional-order Chua’s circuit with the piecewise-smooth continuous system.
Complexity and Chimera States in a Network of Fractional-Order Laser Systems
Authors: He Shaobo , Natiq Hayder , Banerjee Santo , Sun Kehui
Published: February 2021

By applying the Adams-Bashforth-Moulton method (ABM), this paper explores the complexity and synchronization of a fractional-order laser dynamical model. The dynamics under the variance of derivative order q and parameters of the system have examined using the multiscale complexity algorithm and the bifurcation diagram. Numerical simulation outcomes demonstrate that the system generates chaos with the decreasing of q. Moreover, this paper designs the coupled fractional-order network of laser systems and subsequently obtains its numerical solution using ABM. These solutions have demonstrated chimera states of the proposed fractional-order laser network.
Three-Complex Numbers and Related Algebraic Structures
Authors: Richter Wolf-Dieter
Published: February 2021

Three-complex numbers are introduced for using a geometric vector product in the three-dimensional Euclidean vector space R3 and proving its equivalence with a spherical coordinate product. Based upon the definitions of the geometric power and geometric exponential functions, some Euler-type trigonometric representations of three-complex numbers are derived. Further, a general l23−complex algebraic structure together with its matrix, polynomial and variable basis vector representations are considered. Then, the classes of lp3-complex numbers are introduced. As an application, Euler-type formulas are used to construct directional probability laws on the Euclidean unit sphere in R3.
Preference for Complexity and Asymmetry Contributes to an Ability to Overcome Structured Imagination: Implications for Creative Perception Paradigm
Authors: Kharkhurin Anatoliy V. , Charkhabi Morteza
Published: February 2021

The study is a part of a research project, which explores the role of creative perception in creative behavior. We operationalized creative behavior as an ability to overcome structured imagination, as measured by the Invented Alien Creature test, and operationalized creative perception as a preference for complexity and asymmetry, which we assessed using a standard Barron–Welsh Art Scale. Our group of participants was composed of ninety-three undergraduate students from the United Arab Emirates. The degree to which one preferred complexity and asymmetry measurably contributed to their ability to overcome structured imagination. This finding adds another brick to the rising seventh pillar of the creativity construct, namely, creative perception. The article provides a first sketch of the creative perception paradigm.
Persistent Human Papillomavirus Infection
Authors: Della Fera Ashley N. , Warburton Alix , Coursey Tami L. , Khurana Simran , McBride Alison A.
Published: February 2021

Persistent infection with oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) types is responsible for ~5% of human cancers. The HPV infectious cycle can sustain long-term infection in stratified epithelia because viral DNA is maintained as low copy number extrachromosomal plasmids in the dividing basal cells of a lesion, while progeny viral genomes are amplified to large numbers in differentiated superficial cells. The viral E1 and E2 proteins initiate viral DNA replication and maintain and partition viral genomes, in concert with the cellular replication machinery. Additionally, the E5, E6, and E7 proteins are required to evade host immune responses and to produce a cellular environment that supports viral DNA replication. An unfortunate consequence of the manipulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation is that cells become at high risk for carcinogenesis.
Spike S2 Subunit: The Dark Horse in the Race for Prophylactic and Therapeutic Interventions against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Ng Kim Tien , Mohd-Ismail Nur Khairiah , Tan Yee-Joo
Published: February 2021

In the midst of the unceasing COVID-19 pandemic, the identification of immunogenic epitopes in the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) glycoprotein plays a vital role in the advancement and development of intervention strategies. S is expressed on the exterior of the SARS-CoV-2 virion and contains two subunits, namely the N-terminal S1 and C-terminal S2. It is the key element for mediating viral entry as well as a crucial antigenic determinant capable of stimulating protective immune response through elicitation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and activation of CD4+ and CD8+ cells in COVID-19 patients. Given that S2 is highly conserved in comparison to the S1, here, we provide a review of the latest findings on the SARS-CoV-2 S2 subunit and further discuss its potential as an attractive and promising target for the development of prophylactic vaccines and therapeutic agents against COVID-19.
Controlling Factors of Badland Morphological Changes in the Emilia Apennines (Northern Italy)
Authors: Coratza Paola , Parenti Carlotta
Published: February 2021

Badlands are typical erosional landforms of the Apennines (Northern Italy) that form on Plio-Pleistocene clayey bedrock and rapidly evolve. The present study aimed at identification and assessment of the areal and temporal changes of badlands within a pilot area of the Modena Province (Emilia Apennines), where no previous detailed investigation has been carried out. For this purpose, a diachronic investigation was carried out to map the drainage basin and the drainage networks of the linear erosion features in the study area during the last 40 years, and to evaluate changes in badlands drainage basins morphometry and surface, land use and pluviometry. The investigation carried out indicated a general stabilisation trend of the badlands in the study area. In fact, a reduction in the bare surface area from 6187.1 m2 in 1973 to 4214.1 m2 in 2014 (31%), due to an intensified revegetation process around the badland areas, has been recorded. This trend, in line with the results of research carried out in other sector of the Northern Apennines, is mainly due to intensive land use changes, mostly the increase in forest cover and the reduction of agricultural land, that occurred in the study area from the 1970s onwards.
Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases in Iran: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Aghamohammadi Asghar , Abolhassani Hassan , Rezaei Nima
Published: February 2021

Clinical immunology and its subset topics are rather newly emerging medical fields in Iran as well as other developing countries. Primary immunodeficiency diagnosis and treatment were revolutionized in the late 1970s; a period of time that coincided with the establishment of the Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy at the Children’s Medical Center, Tehran. Subsequently, the launch of fellowship training programs (in 1988), the development of a national Iranian Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Registry (in 1999), the inauguration of Research Center for Immunodeficiencies (in 2009), and recently, the national primary immunodeficiency network (in 2016) significantly changed the picture of disease management during the last 40 years. In this review, we seek to elucidate the most important past events, current challenges and future directions regarding the field of primary immunodeficiency.
Clinical Characteristics of COVID-19 Patients with Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Authors: Montazeri Mahnaz , Maghbouli Nastaran , Jamali Raika , Sharifi Alireza , Pazoki Marzieh , Salimzadeh Ahmad , Barzegari Behnaz , Rafiei Najme , Mansouri Ensieh Sadat , Hadadi Azar
Published: February 2021

Background: We aimed to assess the gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations of patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection and determine factors predicting disease prognosis and severity among patients with GI symptoms. Methods: In this retrospective study, we evaluated laboratory confirmed (by real-time polymerase chain reaction) inpatient cases of coronavirus-associated disease 2019 (COVID-19), referred to Sina hospital, a tertiary educational hospital of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, from March 10 to May 20, 2020. Demographic and clinical characteristics, laboratory data, outcomes and treatment data were extracted and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: A total of 611 patients (234 women and 377 men) were included with 155 patients having GI symptoms. The most prevalent reported GI symptom was nausea/vomiting in 115 (18.8%) of patients. A total of 20 patients (3.2%) only had GI symptoms (without respiratory symptoms). There was no statistically significant difference in the clinical outcomes, disease severity, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality between patients with and without GI symptoms. Aspartate Aminotransferase level was associated with 446% increased risk of disease severity (adjusted odds ratio: 5.46, 95% CI: 2.01 to 14.81) (P=0.040) among patients with GI symptoms. Additionally, we found that treatment with antibiotics in addition to mechanical ventilation was associated with increased survival among patients with GI symptoms (Pearson Chi square: 6.22; P value: 0.013). Conclusion: More attention should be paid to patients with only GI symptoms for early patient detection and isolation. Moreover, patients with GI manifestations are not exposed to higher rates of disease severity or mortality.
Phytotherapy for diabetes mellitus; A review of Middle Eastern and North African folk medicinal plants
Authors: Abouzekry Sara S , Badawy Marwa T , Ezzelarab Nada M , Abdellatif Ahmed
Published: February 2021

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is considered as one of the most common metabolic disorders affecting huge number of people worldwide. Despite the availability of large numbers of drugs in the market to treat the disease, there is still a need for new sources to deal with the problem and avoid side effects. In the pursuit of discovering safer and more effective anti-diabetic drugs, herbal and folk medicine drugs from regions all over the world have captured researchers’ interest. Middle Eastern and North African medicinal plants contain a variety of pharmacologically active components that have shown to possess promising anti-diabetic potential. However, few data have been reported about medicinal plants from these regions in comparison to plants from other regions. Anti-diabetic medicinal plants from the MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) region, their role in controlling DM, and suggested mechanisms for the anti-diabetic activity of some medicinal plants are discussed in this review. Many of these plants have not been fully investigated and characterized, yet they have great potential for further development as anti-diabetic drugs.
Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Müll. Arg.: A review on its pharmacology and phytochemistry
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Patil Meenu , Kumar Pardeep , Bhatti Ram Chand , Kaur Rupinder , Sharma Nitin Kumar , Singh Anand Narain
Published: February 2021

Kamala tree (Mallotus philippensis) is traditionally used by different ethnic groups to treat a variety of diseases and health ailments. However, these traditional uses need to be scientifically investigated and validated in order to develop drugs from this tree. Therefore, the present article is aimed to review the scientifically validated knowledge on the pharmacology and phytochemistry of the tree. To accomplish this, we extensively surveyed the available databases like Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, NCBI including PubMed and PubChem, etc. by using keywords ‘Mallotus philippensis’, ‘Mallotus phillippinensis’ and ‘Mallotus philippinensis’. Our results indicated that the tree possesses more than 50 different types of important phytochemicals of natural origin. The wide array of phytochemicals possesses fascinating biological activities like anthelmintic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-cancerous, anti-tuberculosis, anti-parasitic, analgesic, anti-urolithiatic and anti-viral activities. Thus, pharmacological activities and isolation of active phytochemicals make the tree a promising candidate for drug discovery. However, pharmacological activities such as antibacterial and anti-oxidant activities are often tested with crude extracts and in vitro rudimentary methods that can be sometimes misleading and non-specific. Thus, more sophisticated techniques may be applied for the isolation of active chemicals and elucidating their mechanism of actions.
Antidepressant effect of methanol stem bark extract of Adansonia digitata: involvement of monoaminergic, nitric oxide and cholinergic pathways
Authors: Shehu Aishatu , Magaji Mohammed Garba , Yau Jamilu , Ahmed Abubakar
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Hausa people of north-western Nigeria were reported to utilize the plant Adansonia digitata for the management of depressive illnesses in an ethnobotanical survey. Thus, this study aimed to establish the mechanism(s) via which methanol stem bark extract of A. digitata (MEAD) exhibits antidepressant activity in mice. Methods: Antidepressant activity of MEAD was evaluated using tail suspension test (TST) at doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. For the mechanistic studies, mice were pre-treated with sulpiride (50 mg/kg), prazosin (1 mg/kg), yohimbine (1 mg/kg), metergoline (1 mg/kg), cyproheptadine (3 mg/kg), L-arginine (50 mg/kg), N omega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA; 50 mg/kg), atropine (1 mg/kg) and naloxone (2 mg/kg) 15 minutes prior to MEAD (1000 mg/kg) administration, then antidepressant activity was assessed using TST one hour later. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni post hoc test. Results: The extract (at doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) and dose-dependently decreased the duration of immobility in the TST. Sulpiride (D2 receptor antagonist), prazosin and yohimbine (α1 and α2 receptor antagonists, respectively), metergoline and cyproheptadine (5-HT1 and 5-HT2 receptor antagonists, respectively) significantly (P < 0.05) reversed the antidepressant effect of MEAD. On the other hand, L-NNA (NOS inhibitor) augmented the antidepressant effect of MEAD while L-arginine (nitric oxide substrate) had no effect on MEAD. However, atropine (muscarinic receptor antagonist) significantly (P < 0.01) augmented the antidepressant effect of MEAD. Conclusion: The antidepressant activity of methanol stem bark extract of A. digitata was established to be via the monoaminergic, nitric oxide and cholinergic pathways.
Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of the successive extracts of the aerial parts of Rumex pictus Forssk. growing in Egypt
Authors: Ammar Nagwa Mohamed , Abou El-Kassem Lamiaa Taha , Ayoub Nahla AbdelHamid , El-Ahmady Sherweit Hamed , Moharam Maysa Elsayed , AbouZeid Enaam Mohamed
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Rumex spp. have been used in folk medicine either as food or as medicine for the treatment of several diseases including constipation, fever, inflammation, bacterial and fungal infections. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of the successive extracts of the aerial parts of Rumex pictus Forssk. growing in Egypt, and to identify the chemical constituents in the bioactive extract. Methods: Ether, chloroformic, and 70% methanolic extracts of the aerial parts of R. pictus were assayed for their in vivo anti-inflammatory activity using carrageenan-induced rat hind paw edema method. These extracts were also tested for their in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities using disc diffusion method. Results: The 70% methanolic extract of R. pictus exhibited significant anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-candida activities. Thus, fractionation of the bioactive extract was performed which led to the isolation of three anthraquinones, as well as, seven flavonoids. Conclusion: Rumex pictus possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities which reinforce its use in ethnomedicine.
Components and acute toxicity of nanoherbal haramonting (Rhodomyrtus tomentosa)
Authors: Situmorang Putri Cahaya , Ilyas Syafruddin , Hutahaean Salomo , Rosidah Rosidah
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (haramonting), a typical plant of North Sumatera, Indonesia, contains important medicinal ingredients. Nano sized drugs have high loading capacities and can be given at high concentrations. This study aimed to determine the components and toxicity of nanoherbal haramonting. It also aimed to determine the effect of nanoherbal haramonting on the histology of the liver, kidneys, lungs, heart and brain. Methods: High-energy milling was performed to produce nanoherbal haramonting. Thin-layer chromatography was utilised to determine the chemical components of the nanoherb. Antioxidant tests were performed by using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazil method. The three-stage of lethal dose 50 (LD50) which comprised the dose orientation test, preliminary test and actual phase test/LD50 determination, and the Thomson–Weil formula was applied to measure the lethal concentration 50 (LC50) of nanoherbal haramonting. Organs were collected for histological investigation after 14 days of the lethality test. Results: Nanoherbal haramonting had an average diameter distribution of 600.1 nm ± 135.8. It contained flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, saponins and tannins. Its LC50 and LD50 values were 2961.535 ppm and 10.4 ± 0.135 mg/kg BW, respectively. The histology of the heart, kidney, lungs, heart and brain were changed and affected by nanoherbal haramonting treatment at each dose level. Conclusion: Nanoherbal haramonting has strong antioxidative activity and small size, can be effectively used as medicine in the future because it contains secondary metabolite compounds that can be developed as drugs. However, it has mild toxicity.
Diagnostic value of Sestamibi Scan in the preoperative localization of parathyroid lesions in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.
Authors: Mahmoudian Babak , Tootoonchian Mitra , Bahrami Amir , Khamnian Zhila
Published: February 2021

Abstract Introduction: Preoperative localization modalities for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism today play an important role in clinical decision making, surgical procedure, and the prognosis of patients. One of the most common preoperative imaging modalities is the sestamibi scan labeled with Technetium-99m, which is capable of determining the location of parathyroid lesions in primary hyperparathyroidism patients with high sensitivity. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 25 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, referred to endocrine clinic of Tabriz University of Medical Siences during 2016-2018 were enrolled. All patients underwent a preoperative Sestamibi scan. Comparing the results of the scan with the surgical findings as a standard gold method for diagnosis, the diagnostic value of the scan was evaluated for the localization of parathyroid lesions. Results: According to the items observed in surgery and pathologic findings, the sensitivity of Sestamibi scan for the localization of parathyroid lesions was 84.6%. Specificity and positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 95.6%, 89.6%, and 94.8%, respectively. A significant relationship was observed between the type of lesion and the sensitivity of Sestamibi scan (p=0.002). Conclusion: Sestamibi scan has high sensitivity and diagnostic and therapeutic value for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. However, the existence of other pre- and intraoperative localization modalities, at the request of surgeons, is useful and warranted to reduce the rate of recurrent surgery as well as to minimize false negatives.
Developmental outcome of severe neonatal indirect hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Mostafa Gharehbaghi Manizheh , Heidatabady Seifolah , Ghasempour Masoomeh , Alizade Mahsa
Published: February 2021

Background: Indirect hyperbilirubinemia is one of the most common causes of hospitalization in the neonatal period and its potential association with brain damage is well established. This study was conducted to determine neurodevelopmental outcome of children who had severe indirect hyperbilirubinemia in neonatal period and received intensive phototherapy with or without double volume exchange transfusion for its management. Material & methods: This descriptive analytical study was performed in healthy infants with the history of severe indirect hyperbilirubinemia and need intensive phototherapy with or without exchange transfusion. We invited the enrolled infants at their 2-3 years age. Neurodevelopmental assessment was performed by a trained nurse using Ages and Stages Questionnaire. Results: The mean total serum bilirubin (TSB) of studied children was 26.4±4.1 mg/dl at their neonatal period. The estimated rate of severe hyperbilirubinemia with the TSB of 25-30 mg/dl was 48.7/100,000 live born infants and 11.4 /100,000 for hyperbilirubinemia higher than 30 mg/dl. The most common cause of jaundice in patients with exchange transfusion was ABO incompatibility. At their follow up examination, the classic form of bilirubin induced encephalopathy (Kernicterus) was diagnosed in 3 neonates. Two of them had sensory neural hearing loss too. Eleven children had low score based on ASQ in at least one area. The score was less than 2SD in 3 patients. Conclusion: Severe hyperbilirubinemia and kernicterus is still occurring in term and late pre-term infants. Early detection and management of severe hyperbilirubinemia may improve the neurodevelopmental outcome in high risk infants.
Organ system effects and reinfection of COVID-19: A systematic review
Authors: Padda Inderbir , Khehra Nimrat , Jaferi Urooj , Mosabbeh Dina , Atwal Harshan , Musaji Abbas , Bhullar Sufle
Published: February 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its effects on the organ systems have been summarized in recent literature with predominant pulmonary characteristics as a hallmark of the COVID-19 virus. Considering its accelerated appearance from Wuhan, China, in December 2019, extrapulmonary effects have been reported globally of SARS-CoV-2 involving the central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, renal, and hematologic systems; thus, the potential mechanisms, pathophysiology, clinical characteristics, management, outcome, and case reports per organ system are summarized in depth. The authors interpreted articles composed of case reports, case-series, meta-analysis, cohort studies, retrospective studies, and narrative reviews focusing on COVID-19 confirmed cases and their effects on the organ systems. Prevalent clinical organ system complexities include pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, myocarditis progressing to fulminant myocarditis, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, liver dysfunction, encephalopathy, encephalitis, meningitis, intracerebral hemorrhage, acute kidney injury, and hypercoagulability causing stroke and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). This comprehensive literature review article will help clinicians and researchers gain insight about SARS-CoV-2 and its diverse effects on multiple organ systems involved, therefore help implement prospective management and preventative measures.