bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Researches about Combinatorial Therapeutic Regimen on Cancer Treatment
Authors: He Xinjia , He Qiaqia , Wang Lihua , He Xiaofei
Published: September 2019

Cancer is a refractory disease, which brings physical, mental and economic sufferings
on patients and their families. The activation of oncogenes and/or the deletion of tumor repressors
result in uncontrolled tumor survival and proliferation. Therapeutic resistance and cancer recurrence
are common issues during the course of clinical treatment. Since each single treatment can’t
eradicate tumor cells completely, the development of combinatorial therapeutic regimen is in the
spotlight for several decades. Combinatorial therapeutic regimen, a treatment modality that combines
two or more therapeutic agents, targets key pathways in a characteristically synergistic or an
additive manner. It aims to improve the efficacy and magnitude of therapeutic responses and
reduce the likelihood of acquired resistance by using optimal drug dose with tolerable side effect.
Currently, the combinatorial therapeutic regimen not only includes various chemicals, but also
diverse therapeutic modalities which affected DNA damage repair, protein localization and degradation,
post-translational modification, cell metabolism and apoptosis, as well as immune
response.
Fasting Insulin and Risk of Cancer Related Mortality in Non-diabetic Adults: A Dose-response Meta-analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Ghanavati Matin , Rahmani Jamal , Rinaldi Giulia , Zand Hamid
Published: September 2019

Background:

Insulin is known to have direct and indirect effects on cell cycle progression, proliferation and metastatic activities. We performed a dose-response meta-analysis to investigate the association between hyperinsulinemia and all-cause cancer related mortality.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted on MEDLINE and SCOPUS databases to include all published articles up to January 2019. Combined hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were estimated using DerSimonian and Laird random-effects models. A dose-response analysis was also conducted to further explore insulin’s relationship with cancer-related mortality.

Results:

We identified seven studies, with a total of 23,990 participants, who reported the association between hyperinsulinemia and cancer-related mortality. Results from the eligible studies indicated that higher fasting insulin levels were not associated with an increased risk of cancer mortality (pooled HR: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.99-1.32), however, significant heterogeneity was present (I2 = 60.3%, P heterogeneity = 0.001). A subgroup analysis based on gender demonstrated a significant association between fasting insulin level and cancer mortality in men (pooled HR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.23-3.01, P heterogeneity = 0.281).

Conclusion:

This dose-response meta-analysis showed a direct significant association between fasting insulin level and cancer mortality in men.
Dietary Phytonutrients in the Prevention of Diabetes-related Complications
Authors: Jha Pamela , Kumari Sonit , Jobby Renitta , Desai Nitin , Ali Ahmad
Published: September 2019

Background:

The increasing prevalence of reported cases of diabetes has evidently become a major global public health concern. Although diabetes management is possible by the administration of synthetic anti-diabetic agents, there are profound side-effects associated with their long-term usage. Hence there is a demand for safer alternatives which could be possibly formulated using specific yet common phytonutrients.

Objectives:

The main objective of this review is to describe the cellular mechanisms of phytonutrients as an alternative to commercially available synthetic anti-diabetic agents in the management of diabetes and related complications. Furthermore, the clinical evidence that supports this view is also highlighted.

Methodology:

An in-depth review of published literature was carried out to identify the most promising phytonutrients in the management of diabetes and related complications.

Results:

A number of phytonutrients are reported to be potential anti-diabetic agents. Few examples include biguanides, resveratrol, lycopene, thymoquinone and quercetin. However, suitable formulations using these phytonutrients and their clinical trials are still underway. Most of the reported findings focus on one aspect of several biochemical processes e.g. enhancement of glucose utilization, antioxidation, induction of insulin production, antiglycation, etc. An in-depth study of phytonutrients with respect to functional, immunological as well as biochemical factors suggesting their efficacy, as well as safety in the management of diabetes, is rarely reported.

Conclusion:

Our study thus highlights the abundance of clinical evidence of the efficiency of phytonutrients, and at the same time, the scarcity of clinically approved and marketed phytonutrients, as drugs, for the management of diabetes and related complications.
Application of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy with Anthracyclines
Authors: Zatta Simone Meneghetti , Murad Neif , Alves Beatriz da Costa Aguiar , Azzalis Ligia Ajaime , Junqueira Virginia Berlanga Campos , Rocha Roberto Odebrecht , Bacci Marcelo Rodrigues , Feder David , Chagas Antonio Carlos Palandri , Adami Fernando , Fonseca Fernando Luiz Affonso
Published: September 2019

Background:

The most active agents for the treatment of breast cancer are the anthracyclines
whose clinical usefulness is limited by cumulative dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, which results
in congestive heart failure among other limiting factors. With all the attempts to minimize
chemotherapeutic cardiotoxicity, remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) has been considered as a
potent endogenous mechanism capable of inhibiting inflammatory responses.

Objective:

This study aimed to verify if RIPC may be effective as prophylaxis to prevent anthracycline-
induced cardiotoxicity in oncological patients.

Methods:

The preconditioning method was based on four to five-minute cycles of a blood pressure
cuff insufflation around the upper arm (either left or right) from 200 mmHg to 250 mmHg, inducing
ischemic intervals interspersed with 5 minutes of reperfusion.

Results:

In this work, echocardiogram results showed a ventricular mass variation that can get worse
during chemotherapeutic treatment; however, in patients who had been undergoing RIPC sessions
over a period of 6 months, it was observed that this change did not occur. The parameters for troponin
T levels were considered; they were higher in patients who were not undergoing RIPC in relation
to those who were. When both cases were compared, it was possible to infer that there was a
clinically significant improvement for those who went through the procedure.

Conclusion:

Thus, through the analysis of this study, it is possible to conclude that RIPC is a lowcost,
non-invasive procedure which brings cardiac protection for patients undergoing chemotherapy
with anthracyclines, providing support in the treatment of cancer.
Metabolite Detection and Profiling Using Analytical Methods
Authors: Mehta Lovekesh , Grover Parul , Naved Tanveer , Mukherjee Debaraj
Published: September 2019

To develop effective and safe drugs and to take them to the market in short period of time is
the mission of pharmaceutical research companies. A selection of few of the lead compounds are done
for the evaluation of safety and their ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicology)
properties are tested in in-vitro (test systems), in-vivo (living organisms) and in-silico (computational
methods). From initial stages to final stages of modern drug discovery processes, the vital tool
for detecting and characterizing metabolites is MS (Mass spectrometry) hyphenated with other techniques.
The methods used for generation of metabolites are in vitro techniques and cell lines (containing
expressing drug metabolizing enzymes and heterologous genes). The use of HPLC-MS/UPLC-MS
and high resolution MS, enables the in depth metabolite detection and profiling studies and it may also
be likely to identify and characterize the site and types of biotransformation.
Withdrawn: Automated Diagnosis of Glaucoma Using Deep Neural Network Classifier
Authors: Madhumalini M. , Devi T. Meera
Published: September 2019

The article has been withdrawn on the request of the authors and the editor of the journal Current Signal Transduction Therapy.

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

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Stem Cell Senescence: the Obstacle of the Treatment of Degenerative Disk Disease
Authors: Chen Ying , Tang Liling
Published: September 2019

Intervertebral disc (IVD) has a pivotal role in the maintenance of flexible motion. IVD degeneration
is one of the primary causes of low back pain and disability, which seriously influences
patients’ health, and increases the family and social economic burden. Recently, stem cell therapy has
been proven to be more effective on IVD degeneration disease. However, stem cell senescence is the
limiting factor in the IVD degeneration treatment. Senescent stem cells have a negative effect on the
self-repair on IVD degeneration. In this review, we delineate that the factors such as telomerase shortening,
DNA damage, oxidative stress, microenvironment and exosomes will induce stem cell aging.
Recent studies tried to delay the aging of stem cells by regulating the expression of aging-related genes
and proteins, changing the activity of telomerase, improving the survival microenvironment of stem
cells and drug treatment. Understanding the mechanism of stem cell aging and exploring new approaches
to delay or reverse stem cell aging asks for research on the repair of the degenerated disc.
Cyclodextrin-Based Nanosystems as Drug Carriers for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Sivakumar Ponnurengam M. , Peimanfard Shohreh , Zarrabi Ali , Khosravi Arezoo , Islami Matin
Published: September 2019

Background and Objective:

Cyclodextrins have been of great interest as excellent candidates for
fabricating versatile nano-drug delivery systems due to their commercial availability, easy functionalization, low
immunogenicity, biocompatibility and safety. The possibility of reversible inclusion complex formation between
cyclodextrins and various guest molecules in association with versatile exclusive properties of cyclodextrins
offer a route towards the fabrication of highly sophisticated nanostructures with enormous potential for cancer
treatment.

Methods and Results:

The current review discusses important recent advances in the fabrication and development
of cyclodextrin-based nanostructures for cancer therapy. Firstly, the formation of inclusion complexes
between cyclodextrin derivatives and anticancer compounds, as well as their application, are summarized. Secondly,
the cyclodextrins -based nanosystems including cyclodextrin-containing polymers, cyclodextrin-based
supramolecular necklaces, which consist of polyrotaxanes and polypseudorotaxanes and cyclodextrin based
hydrogels accompanied by their applications in cancer treatment are highlighted. In the end, the future perspective
of this field is discussed.

Conclusion:

Numerous investigations in this area pave the way for the flourishing of the next generation of
nano-therapeutics towards enhanced cancer therapy.
STAT5 and STAT5 Inhibitors in Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Tolomeo Manlio , Meli Maria , Grimaudo Stefania
Published: September 2019

The JAK-STAT pathway is an important physiologic regulator of different cellular functions including
proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and immunological responses. Out of six different STAT proteins,
STAT5 plays its main role in hematopoiesis and constitutive STAT5 activation seems to be a key event in the
pathogenesis of several hematological malignancies. This has led many researchers to develop compounds capable
of inhibiting STAT5 activation or interfering with its functions. Several anti-STAT5 molecules have
shown potent STAT5 inhibitory activity in vitro. However, compared to the large amount of clinical studies with
JAK inhibitors that are currently widely used in the clinics to treat myeloproliferative disorders, the clinical
trials with STAT5 inhibitors are very limited. At present, a few STAT5 inhibitors are in phase I or II clinical
trials for the treatment of leukemias and graft vs host disease. These studies seem to indicate that such compounds
could be well tolerated and useful in reducing the occurrence of resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors
in chronic myeloid leukemia. Of interest, STAT5 seems to play an important role in the regulation of hematopoietic
stem cell self-renewal suggesting that combination therapies including STAT5 inhibitors can erode the
cancer stem cell pool and possibly open the way for the complete cancer eradication. In this review, we discuss the
implication of STAT5 in hematological malignancies and the results obtained with the novel STAT5 inhibitors.
Ethyl Acetohydroxamate Incorporated Chalcones: Unveiling a Novel Class of Chalcones for Multitarget Monoamine Oxidase-B Inhibitors Against Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Reeta  , Baek Seung Cheol , Lee Jae Pil , Rangarajan T.M. , Ayushee  , Singh Rishi Pal , Singh Manjula , Mangiatordi Giuseppe Felice , Nicolotti Orazio , Kim Hoon , Mathew Bijo
Published: September 2019

Background:

Chalcones are considered as the selective scaffold for the inhibition of MAO-B.

Objective:

A previously synthesized ethyl acetohydroxamate-chalcones (L1-L22) were studied for their inhibitory activities against human recombinant monoamine oxidase A and B (hMAO-A and hMAO-B, respectively) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) as multi-target directed ligands for the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).

Methods:

Enzyme inhibition studies of MAO-A, MAO-B and AChE is carried out. Computational studies such as Molecular docking, Molecular Mechanics/Generalized Born Surface Area calculations, ADMET prediction, and protein target prediction are also performed.

Results:

Among the screened compounds, compound L3 has most potent hMAO-B inhibition with an IC50 value of 0.028 ± 0.0016 µM, and other compounds, L1, L2, L4, L8, L12, and L21 showed significant potent hMAO-B inhibition with IC50 values of 0.051 ± 0.0014, 0.086 ± 0.0035, 0.036 ± 0.0011, 0.096 ± 0.0061, 0.083 ± 0.0016, and 0.038 ± 0.0021 µM, respectively. On the other hand, among the tested compounds, compound L13 showed highest hMAO-A inhibition with an IC50 value of 0.51± 0.051 µM and L9 has a significant value of 1.85 ± 0.045 µM. However, the compounds L3 and L4 only showed high selectivities for hMAO-B with Selectivity Index (SI) values of 621.4 and 416.7, respectively. Among the substituents in ring A of ethyl acetohydroxamate-chalcones (L1-L9), F atom at p-position (L3) showed highest inhibitory effect against hMAO-B. This result supports the uniqness and bizarre behavior of fluorine. Moreover, chalcones L3, L4, L9, L11, and L12 showed potential AChE inhibitory effect with IC50 values of 0.67, 0.85, 0.39, 0.30, and 0.45 µM, respectively. Inhibitions of hMAO-B by L3 or L4 were recovered to the level of the reversible reference (lazabemide), and were competitive with Ki values of 0.0030 ± 0.0002 and 0.0046 ± 0.0005 µM, respectively. Inhibitions of AChE by L3 and L11 were of the competitive and mixed types with Ki values of 0.30 ± 0.044 and 0.14 ± 0.0054 µM, respectively.

Conclusion:

The studies indicated that L3 and L4 are considered to be promising multitarget drug molecules with potent, selective, and reversible competitive inhibitors of hMAO-B and with highly potent AChE inhibitory effect.
Development of Topical Gel of Methotrexate Incorporated Ethosomes and Salicylic Acid for the Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Chandra Akhilesh , Aggarwal Geeta , Manchanda Satish , Narula Akshay
Published: September 2019

Background:

There is an unmet need for optimized drug delivery system of psoriasis therapy because of various issues like adverse reaction, permeation problem associated with convention treatment (oral and topical) available for psoriasis.

Objective:

The goal was to develop an ethosomal gel of methotrexate (MTX)-incorporated ethosomes and salicylic acid (SA) and to evaluate and study its ethosomal gel potential in Imiquimod-induced psoriasis animal model to treat symptoms of psoriasis.

Methods:

MTX-SA ethosomal gel was prepared by the cold method given by Touitou et al. and optimized by comparing it with MTX ethosomal gel and drug solution. Particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and ex-vivo study were selected as the critical quality checking attributes. Psoriatic Area and Severity Index (PASI) score & histopathological examination were done for checking Antipsoriatic potential of MTX-SA ethosomal gel by using the imiquimod-induced psoriasis model.

Results:

Optimized MTX-SA exhibited a particle size of 376.04 ± 3.47nm, EE(Entrapment efficiency) of 91.77 ± 0.02%. At the end of 24h, MTX-SA ethosomal gel exhibited a slow and prolonged release of MTX (26.13 ± 1.61% versus 6.97 ± 0.06%) compared to MTX drug solution. It also attributes of 43% retention study as compared to drug solution (13%). Besides, it essentially decreased the PASI score with the recuperation of normalcy of the mice's skin, while the MTX-SA gel displayed indications of gentle hyper and parakeratosis toward the completion of investigation when contrasted with the blank gel.

Conclusion:

The developed MTX-SA ethosomal gel formulation can be a promising alternative to existing MTX formulation in topically treating psoriasis.
Recent Patents for Modular Self-Reconfigurable Robot
Authors: Dai Ye , Liu Zhaoxu , Zhang Hanbo , Qi Yunshan
Published: September 2019

Background:

Modular self-reconfigurable robot is a hot topic in current robotics research,
the modular self-reconfigurable robot is composed of several modules with certain autonomous ability
and perceptual ability. Through mutual docking and assembly, the overall configuration is changed to
achieve different moves and operation functions. Compared with the traditional robot, it has strong
adaptability to the environment and the ability to deal with changeable tasks.

Objective:

The recent modular self-reconfigurable robot is summarized, and its structure, characteristics
and development are introduced.

Methods:

This paper summarizes the patents and research progress of modular self-reconfigurable robot,
and introduces the current development of modular self-reconfigurable robot from the aspects of
structure features, docking methods, driving types and applications.

Results:

This paper classifies the structural features, docking methods and driving types of various
modular self-reconfigurable robots, summarizes the typical features, and discusses the current and future
development of modular self-reconfigurable robots.

Conclusion:

Modular self-reconfigurable robot is a new subject in the field of robotics research in recent
years. Through the docking among a large number of unit modules which changes the overall configuration,
extends the motion form and realizes different motion gait, modular self-reconfigurable
robot can replace traditional robot to complete the work in a complex environment, which is of great
significance to the development of robot. Therefore, more modular self-reconfigurable robot patents
should be invented.
Green Synthetic Methodology of (E)-2-cyano-3-aryl Selective Knoevenagel Adducts Under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Jimenez David Esteban Quintero , Zanin Lucas Lima , Diniz Luan Farinelli , Ellena Javier , Porto André Luiz Meleiro
Published: September 2019

Background:

The Knoevenagel condensation is an important reaction in organic chemistry because of its capacity to form new C-C bonds and its products are mainly used in organic synthesis as intermediates, due to the large number of reactions they can undergo. Based on the importance of the Knoevenagel adducts, a sustainable synthetic methodology was developed employing microwave irradiation.

Objective:

Develop a synthetic methodology employing microwave irradiation and green solvents to obtain Knoevenagel adducts with high yields.

Methods:

Knoevenagel condensation reactions were evaluated with different basic catalysts, as well as in the presence or absence of microwave irradiation. The scope of the reaction was expanded using different aldehydes, cyanoacetamide or methyl cyanoacetate. The geometry of the formed products was also evaluated.

Results:

After the optimization process, the reactions between aldehydes and cyanoacetamide were performed with triethylamine as catalyst, in the presence of microwave irradiation, in 35 minutes, using NaCl solution as solvent and resulted in high yields 90-99%. The reactions performed between aldehydes and methyl cyanoacetate were also performed under these conditions, but showed better yields with EtOH as solvent 70-90%. Finally, from X-ray analysis, the (E)-geometry of these compounds was confirmed.

Conclusion:

In this study we developed synthetic methodology of Knoevenagel condensation using triethylamine, green solvents and microwave irradiation. In 35 minutes, products with high yields (70- 99%) were obtained and the (E)-geometry of the adducts was confirmed.
Regulation and Challenges of Biosimilars in European Union
Authors: Vikram  , Deep Aakash , Manita
Published: September 2019

Background:

Biological products comprise the most complex and diverse types of
drugs that are made by living cells. The use of biological products has increased significantly in
recent decades and has contributed significantly to improving the efficacy of treatment in many
diseases. Patent protection for pharmaceutical products, including biological products, generally
expires about 20 years after development. Expiration of patents of biological innovative medicines
allows regulatory authorities to approve copies of biological medicines, such as medicines called
similar biological products (biosimilar) and to enter in clinical use. Biosimilar products are comparable
but not identical with innovator biological products and are not a generic version of the
innovator biological product. While biosimilars are subjected to rigorous characterization and
clinical trials to demonstrate their safety and efficacy, in the case of biosimilars certain regulatory
requirements apply for registration. Biosimilars are very complex and large molecules and minor
changes in the manufacturing process can have important implications in their safety and efficacy
profiles. To ensure that biosimilar reaches their potential in clinical application, intensive Pharmacovigilance
system and risk management plan must be established to demonstrate the true similarity
between the biosimilar products and original biological products. Biosimilars are part of the
growing sector of the pharmaceutical industry and normally used by human beings since manufacturers
of biosimilars face some challenges in regulatory approval and manufacturing of biosimilars
in the European Union.

Objectives:

The current manuscript will provide the information regarding the regulation of
biosimilar products with guidelines and challenges faced by manufacturers during approved and
manufacturing of biosimilar products in the European Union. This manuscript also provides the
status of approved and rejected biosimilars by EMA (European Medicine Agency).

Conclusion:

Biosimilars may reduce costs when patent protection of biological products expires
and compared to the original products, savings are not as large as seen with traditional generics. In
the coming years, there will be an increasing number of biological and biosimilar products available
on the market, highlighting the need for specific short and long term post-marketing surveillance
programs for these medicines. It is essential to understand how the concept of compatibility,
interchangeability will be managed and regulated in the future. An important aspect for future a
high quality, clinical and non-clinical studies will be conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy
of biosimilars. Scientific guidelines on biosimilar issued by the EMA (European Medicine
Agency) that established a process to demonstrate the similarity between a biosimilar product and
the innovator reference product.
Region Orientation and Converging Magnetic Energy Transmission Based on Novel Structure
Authors: Jin Xu , Yilin Guo
Published: September 2019

Background:

As wireless energy transmission technology advances, the demand for energy
directional transmission increases.

Objective:

Transfer of energy in the specified direction and increase in transmission power.

Methods:

A novel three-coil transmitting structure was proposed, which can transmit energy to a
specified single or multiple space regions, and enhance the magnetic field strength in a single direction
by magnetic field vector synthesis to improve the transmission power.

Results:

Combined with Mathcad numerical calculation and Maxwell simulation analysis, the experimental
platform was built and the magnetic focusi of the proposed novel structure was experimentally
verified.

Conclusion:

The novel emission structure can effectively perform directional energy transmission
and increase the transmission power by 2~3 times in a single direction at the cost of 10%~15% efficiency
loss.
Catalytic Nanomedicine. Cu/TiO2–SiO2 Nanoparticles as Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Case Report
Authors: López-Goerne Tessy , Ramírez-Olivares Paola , Pérez-Dávalos Luis Armando , Velázquez-Muñoz Javier Alejandro , Reyes-González Jesús
Published: September 2019

Introduction:

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most important health issues
worldwide. The rising incidence of the disease has resulted in a parallel increase of complications
such as diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). It is estimated that 25% of patients with diabetes
will develop foot ulcers over a lifetime. In Mexico, this lifetime incidence is about
40% to 50%, and 20% of the cases will require amputations. DFU can result in staggering
financial burdens for the healthcare system and the patient. Therapies that promote rapid
and complete healing and reduce the need for expensive surgical procedures would impact
these costs substantially.

Methods:

Cu/TiO2–SiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by T. López et al. sol-gel patented
method. After synthesis, they were characterized using transmission electron microscopy
(TEM) and X-ray diffraction. Then, they were embedded in a polymeric gel matrix.
The Cu/TiO2–SiO2 nanogel was used as conservative therapy for a chronic non-healing
DFU on a 62-year old female with several comorbidities and chronic complications of diabetes.
Wound debridement was performed prior to nanogel administration. The nanogel
was applied over the ulcer on alternate days for an initial period of 2 weeks and then continued
for 10 months.

Results:

Significant improvement was observed in the wound healing process since the
first applications. The infection was limited and tissue regeneration was enhanced until
complete healing of the ulcer.

Conclusion:

Cu/TiO2–SiO2 nanogel therapy enhanced reepithelialization and healing of
the DFU. The successful outcome allowed to avoid the amputation that was proposed for
the patient.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanocomposites of Nigella sativa Seeds Extract for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Usmani Afreen , Mishra Anuradha , Jafri Asif , Arshad Md , Siddiqui Mohd Aftab
Published: September 2019

Background:

Silver nanoparticles play a significant role in bioavailability and refining the compatibility of natural drugs in the treatment of various chronic diseases including different types of cancer.

Objective:

Green synthesis of silver nanocomposites of Nigella sativa seeds extract to evaluate the anticancer effects against hepatocellular carcinoma using HepG2 cell lines.

Methods:

The AgNCs were developed by treating aqueous extract of N. sativa seeds treated with silver nitrate (1mM) solution and were used to test its efficacy against hepatocellular carcinoma using HepG2 cell lines.

Results and Discussion:

The Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) of prepared AgNCs showed a peak at 432 nm via UV spectroscopy. The selected N. sativa AgNCs were characterized for polydispersity, surface charge and size and the results showed 0.215±0.093 polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential 18.8±0.372 mV and size range 10-20 nm, respectively. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) also showed various peak of functional groups that are possibly involved in the reduction of silver ion and synthesized the N. sativa silver nanocomposites, respectively. N. sativa AgNCs showed 89.954% drug release while in the case of extract release, it was only 33.821% in 24 hrs. Further, in vitro studies of N. sativa AgNCs against hepatocellular carcinoma showed good cytotoxic effect p<0.05 with 7.16 µg/ml IC50 value.

Conclusion:

Thus, the present results revealed that green synthesis of N. sativa AgNCs can be an alternative tool for clinical application in cancer therapy; however, there is a need to find the mechanism and role of AgNCs inside the individual.
Diaspora : Dislocation,Development and Drawback
Authors: Khanal Babu Ram
Published: September 2019

This study focuses on diasporas painful feelings and bitter experiences while they are living in the host land. It stresses on their efforts to maintain connections with people back in their homeland. Besides, the research talks about diasporas's attempt to assimilate, acculturate and integrate in the host countries in their dislocated and unhomely state. the study also explore the changing attitude of intellectuals, writers, journalists and politicians of host countries towards diasporas, that they have recognized diasporas' positive culture and economic contribution to host societies. Gradually and cautiously more host societies and their governments are accepting diaspora members' affiliations as legitimate and sought for their permanence. Moreover, in some host countries, and in liberal circles, membership of in such entities has been regarded as exciting and advantageous but not as an obstacles. Yet, the migrants are backed by criticisms and detriments. They establish networks back in their country of origin and try to influence homeland's politics and sometimes support the violent activities. On top of that, the continued migration and increase in remittances encourage chain of migration and brain drain, and create instability in homeland economics.
Development and Testing of a Personalized Web-Based Diet and Physical Activity Intervention Based on Motivational Interviewing and the Self-Determination Theory: Protocol for the MyLifestyleCoach Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Coumans Juul M J , Bolman Catherine A W , Friederichs Stijn A H , Oenema Anke , Lechner Lilian
Published: September 2019

Background

Unhealthy dietary patterns and insufficient physical activity (PA) are associated with negative health outcomes, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, cancer, overweight, and obesity. This makes the promotion of healthy dietary and PA behaviors a public health priority.

Objective

This paper describes the development, design, and evaluation protocol of a Web-based computer-tailored (CT) dietary and PA promotion intervention, MyLifestyleCoach. A Web-based format was chosen for its accessibility and large-scale reach and low-cost potential. To achieve effective and persistent behavioral change, this innovative intervention is tailored to individual characteristics and is based on the self-determination theory and motivational interviewing (MI).

Methods

The 6 steps of the intervention mapping protocol were used to systematically develop MyLifestyleCoach based on the existing effective CT PA promotion intervention I Move. The MyLifestyleCoach intervention consists of 2 modules: I Move, which is aimed at promoting PA, and I Eat, which is aimed at promoting healthy eating. Development of the I Eat module was informed by the previously developed I Move. Both modules were integrated to form the comprehensive MyLifestyleCoach program. Furthermore, I Move was slightly adapted, for example, the new Dutch PA guidelines were implemented. A randomized controlled trial consisting of an intervention condition and waiting list control group will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention on diet and PA.

Results

Self-reported measures take place at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months after baseline. Enrollment started in October 2018 and will be completed in June 2020. Data analysis is currently under way, and the first results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2020.

Conclusions

MyLifestyleCoach is one of the first interventions to translate and apply self-determination theory and techniques from MI in Web-based computer tailoring for an intervention targeting PA and dietary behavior. Intervention mapping served as a blueprint for the development of this intervention. We will evaluate whether this approach is also successful in promoting eating healthier and increasing PA using an randomized controlled trial by comparing the intervention to a waiting list control condition. The results will provide an insight into the short- and long-term efficacy and will result in recommendations for the implementation and promotion of healthy eating and PA among adults in the Netherlands.

Trial Registration

Dutch Trial Register NL7333; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7333

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/14491
Normothermic Insufflation to Prevent Perioperative Hypothermia and Improve Quality of Recovery in Elective Colectomy Patients: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ryczek Edyta , White Judith , Poole Ruth Louise , Reeves Nicola Laura , Torkington Jared , Carolan-Rees Grace
Published: September 2019

Background

Perioperative hypothermia during laparoscopy for bowel resection is a risk factor for postoperative medical complications and surgical wound infections. Despite various warming methods used during surgery, a significant number of patients experience perioperative hypothermia. Use of dry, unwarmed insufflation carbon dioxide (CO2) during laparoscopic procedures may contribute to this problem. Evidence exists that the HumiGard device, which humidifies and heats CO2 for insufflation, can reduce the risk of perioperative hypothermia.

Objective

The aim is to determine if insufflation with warmed, humidified CO2 using the HumiGard device, alongside standard perioperative warming techniques, can improve patient recovery, including pain, surgical site infections, complications, and the use of analgesia compared with standard care alone.

Methods

The study is a multicenter, randomized, blinded (patient, surgeon, and assessor), sham device-controlled, parallel group-controlled trial of 232 patients. The study aims to recruit patients undergoing elective laparoscopic, segmental, or total colectomy. Patients will be randomized to receive HumiGard plus standard care or standard care alone (1:1 ratio). The primary outcome is patient-reported quality of recovery, measured by the validated QoR-40 (quality of recovery) questionnaire, from baseline to postoperative day 1. Secondary outcomes include postoperative pain, the incidence of hypothermia, and the rate of postoperative complications.

Results

The information gathered during a small-scale service evaluation at a single hospital was used to inform this study protocol. Before applying for a grant for this full randomized controlled trial, the authors will conduct a feasibility study of 40 patients to ensure that the protocol is feasible and to inform our sample size calculation.

Conclusions

The randomized controlled trial is designed to provide high-quality evidence on the effectiveness of the HumiGard device in potentially reducing the risk of perioperative hypothermia in patients scheduled for laparoscopic colectomy. The results will be used to improve the maintenance of adequate patient body temperature during surgery.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/14533
A Context-Specific Digital Alcohol Brief Intervention in Symptomatic Breast Clinics (Abreast of Health): Development and Usability Study
Authors: Sinclair Julia M A , Dutey-Magni Peter F , Anderson Annie S , Baird Janis , Barker Mary E , Cutress Ramsey I , Kaner Eileen F S , McCann Mark , Priest Caspian K , Copson Ellen R
Published: September 2019

Background

Potentially modifiable risk factors account for approximately 23% of breast cancer cases. In the United Kingdom, alcohol consumption alone is held responsible for 8% to 10% of cases diagnosed every year. Symptomatic breast clinics focus on early detection and treatment, but they also offer scope for delivery of low-cost lifestyle interventions to encourage a cancer prevention culture within the cancer care system. Careful development work is required to effectively translate such interventions to novel settings.

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a theory of change and delivery mechanism for a context-specific alcohol and lifestyle brief intervention aimed at women attending screening and symptomatic breast clinics.

Methods

A formative study combined evidence reviews, analysis of mixed method data, and user experience research to develop an intervention model, following the 6 Steps in Quality Intervention Development (6SQuID) framework.

Results

A Web app focused on improving awareness, encouraging self-monitoring, and reframing alcohol reduction as a positive choice to improve health was found to be acceptable to women. Accessing this in the clinic waiting area on a tablet computer was shown to be feasible. An important facilitator for change may be the heightened readiness to learn associated with a salient health visit (a teachable moment). Women may have increased motivation to change if they can develop a belief in their capability to monitor and, if necessary, reduce their alcohol consumption.

Conclusions

Using the 6SQuID framework supported the prototyping and maximized acceptability and feasibility of an alcohol brief intervention for women attending symptomatic breast clinics, regardless of their level of alcohol consumption.
Exploring People’s Candidacy for Mobile Health–Supported HIV Testing and Care Services in Rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Qualitative Study
Authors: Adeagbo Oluwafemi , Herbst Carina , Blandford Ann , McKendry Rachel , Estcourt Claudia , Seeley Janet , Shahmanesh Maryam
Published: September 2019

Background

The use of mobile communication technologies (mHealth: mobile health) in chronic disease management has grown significantly over the years. mHealth interventions have the potential to decentralize access to health care and make it convenient, particularly in resource-constrained settings. It is against this backdrop that we aimed to codevelop (with potential users) a new generation of mobile phone–connected HIV diagnostic tests and Web-based clinical care pathways needed for optimal delivery of decentralized HIV testing, prevention, and care in low- and middle-income countries.

Objective

The aim of this study was to understand ways in which an mHealth intervention could be developed to overcome barriers to existing HIV testing and care services and promote HIV self-testing and linkage to prevention and care in a poor, HIV hyperendemic community in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Methods

A total of 54 in-depth interviews and 9 focus group discussions were conducted with potential users (including health care providers) in 2 different communities. Theoretically informed by the candidacy framework, themes were identified from the interview transcripts, manually coded, and thematically analyzed.

Results

Participants reported barriers, such as fear of HIV identity, stigma, long waiting hours, clinic space, and health care workers’ attitudes, as major impediments to effective uptake of HIV testing and care services. People continued to reassess their candidacy for HIV testing and care services on the basis of their experiences and how they or others were treated within the health systems. Despite the few concerns raised about new technology, mobile phone–linked HIV testing was broadly acceptable to potential users (particularly men and young people) and providers because of its privacy (individual control of HIV testing over health provider–initiated testing), convenience (individual time and place of choice for HIV testing versus clinic-based testing), and time saving.

Conclusions

Mobile phone–connected HIV testing and Web-based clinical care and prevention pathways have the potential to support access to HIV prevention and care, particularly for young people and men. Although mHealth provides a way for individuals to test their candidacy for HIV services, the barriers that can make the service unattractive at the clinic level will also need to be addressed if potential demand is to turn into actual demand.
Power and Legitimacy in International Politics: Britain and Germany’s Responses to the U.S.’s Wars Against Iraq in 1991 and 2003
Authors: Afrimadona Afrimadona
Published: September 2019

The paper evaluates the constructivist claim that legitimacy embedded in a country’s foreign policy shapes the responses of other countries’ foreign policy. I test the claim using four cases of Britain’s and Germany’s responses to US’s invasion in Iraq in 1991 and 2003. The choice of US’s invasion in Iraq in 1991 and 2003 was made on the ground that the latter was regarded as utterly illegitimate due to a lack of UN’s authorization. Thus, both cases reveal a variation in the extent of legitimacy (positive versus negative cases). My observation of Britain’s and Germany’s foreign policy responses is based on the fact that both countries are US’s allies. Thus, by examining allies’ responses to US’s invasion in Iraq in these two periods, I control for countries’ type of relationship with the US that may affect their behavior towards the country. My observation shows that only one out of the four cases (Germany’s response to US’s invasion in 2003) supports the claim that legitimacy is the main concern underlying states’ foreign policy response. In general, this study also suggests that legitimacy may matter under normal situation. During crises, however, states tend to be more pragmatic and power-based explanation seems more convincing.
Evaluating the Normative and Structural Explanations of Democratic Peace Theory
Authors: Adiputera Yunizar
Published: September 2019

Originating from the work of Immanuel Kant, Democratic Peace Theory proposes that democracies rarely, if ever, fight war against other democracies. While inquiries to the existence of such phenomena through sophisticated statistical approach remain important, it is equally important to further develop the understanding in the causal explanations behind it. There are two dominant strands of explanations for Democratic Peace, one locates the causes on the structure of democratic government, and the other locates them on the prevailing norms/cultures within a democratic society. The structural explanations claim that it is the institutions within democratic governments, such as the presence of regular election, checks and balances (from parliament), and transparency that hinder their leaders to initiate wars against other democracies. The norm/cultural explanations argue that democracies develop liberal ideology, norms of bounded competition, and reciprocity, which guide them in conducting peaceful foreign relations with other democracies. Despite the compelling logics brought by these two types of explanations, there remains a gap between their theoretical assumptions and practical realities of inter-state relations. Furthermore, some of these explanations need to be further specified in order to allow for more operational investigations to them.
Mewaspadai “Pembajakan” Demokrasi
Authors: Al Akbar Nuruddin
Published: September 2019

Wacana Demokratisasi dunia secara mainstream dipandang sebagai hal yang positif dan patut didukung. Adalah William Blum yang mengajak untuk berpikir lebih jeli dan kritis dalam memahami wacana demokratisasi tersebut, terkhusus jika dipropagandakan oleh Amerika Serikat (AS) yang dianggap sebagai kampiun demokrasi. Realitas yang terjadi sebagaimana yang ditulis Blum ialah atas nama demokratisasi dunia,  AS telah melakukan intervensi terhadap pemilihan umum yang demokratis tidak ruang dari tiga puluh negara (hal. 3). Realitas ini tentunya menimbulkan tanda tanya besar bahwa atas nama demokratisasi dunia, sebuah pemilihan umum demokratis di sebuah negara yang merepresentasikan kuasa rakyat di wilayah tersebut dapat digugat oleh intervensi asing (yakni AS).
Addressing Human Security in Japan’s Foreign Policy Towards the Developing Countries
Authors: Utami Dewi Karina
Published: September 2019

The main purpose of this research is to discuss about Japan’s foreign policy taken in ODA and the decision to have its foreign aid shifted towards more humanitarian issues, such as human security. This research will attempt to answer the question: how does the shift in Japan’s foreign aid influence the recipient countries in terms of Human Security? To measure such influence of policy, this research chose one of the elements in human security, which is health and selected six countries from Asia and Africa as the ODA’s recipient regions. There will be two focuses in this research. First, explaining the reason and the influence of the shift in Japan’s foreign policy to human security. Second, arguing the motivation behind the shift as well as Japan’s actual priority.
Perlawanan Etnis Muslim Rohingya terhadap Kebijakan Diskriminatif Pemerintah Burma-Myanmar
Authors: Ichikaya Mitzy Gulia
Published: September 2019

This research aims to provide a description that the emergence of resistances which committed by Muslim Rohingya in Burma-Myanmar is a result of discriminatory policy. Where there are differences pattern of resistance which carried out during 64 years or two periods of the government, namely Military Junta and Democratic Transition era. This research was based on cases of discrimination against Muslim Rohingya in Burma-Myanmar. Cases about discrimination which Muslim Rohingya accepted could be the basis of their resistance. Their resistance is not just physical but also tended to be subjective. The pattern differences factor is signaled caused by the change in government or an era. Besides, the majority reported news showed about their suffering, not about what have they done responding the policy or discriminatory treatment against them.