bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GSK-3 Inhibitors as New Leads to Treat Type-II Diabetes
Authors: Srivani Gowru , Sharvirala Ramyakrishna , Veerareddy Prabhakar Reddy , Pal Dilipkumar , Kiran Gangarapu
Published: January 2021

In India as well as globally, diabetes is in a state of high risk and next to cardiovascular
disease. As per the WHO, the risk of diabetes is expected to rise about 511 million by 2030. In
quest of novel targets for type-2 diabetes, many targets were elucidated, such as Glycogen Synthase
Kinase-3 (GSK-3), Dipeptidyl Peptidase (DPP-IV), PPAR-γ, α-Glucosidase, α-Amylase,
GLP-1, and SGLT. Among the targets, GSK-3 was reported to be an effective target for the treatment
of diabetes. In the metabolism of glycogen, GSK is a regulatory enzyme for the biosynthesis
of glycogen (glycogenesis). It catalyzes the synthesis of a linear unbranched molecule with 1,4-α-glycosidic
linkages. GSK-3 family has two isoenzymes, namely α and β, which differ in their Nand
C- terminal sequences and are semi-conservative multifunctional serine/threonine kinase enzymes.
In this chapter, we discuss an overview of general diabetic mechanisms and how GSK-3
modulation may influence these processes. Mutation in the GSK-3 complex causes diabetes. Synthetic
and natural scaffolds modulate GSK-3 against diabetes and leading to its optimization for the
development of GSK-3 inhibitors. This review mainly focuses on the development of GSK-3 inhibitors
and highlights current and potential future therapeutic approaches that support the notion
of targeting glucose metabolism with novel antidiabetic agents.
ZEB2 Knock-down Induces Apoptosis in Human Myeloid Leukemia HL-60 Cells
Authors: Fardi Masoumeh , Mohammadi Ali , Baradaran Behzad , Safaee Sahar
Published: January 2021

Introduction::

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most prevalent type of cancer in
the adult hematopoietic system. Conventional therapies are associated with unfavorable side effects
in individuals diagnosed with AML. These after-effects with partial remission reflect the urgent
need for novel therapeutic approaches for inducing apoptosis, specifically in malignant cells, without
affecting other cells. As a transcription factor (TF), ZEB2 (Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox
2) regulates the expression of specific genes in normal conditions. However, increased expression
of ZEB2 is reported in various cancers, especially in AML, which is related to a higher degree
of apoptosis inhibition of malignant cells. In this work, the role of ZEB2 in apoptosis inhibition is
surveyed through ZEB2 specific knocking-down in human myeloid leukemia HL-60 cells.

Materials and Methods::

Transfection of HL-60 cells was conducted using ZEB2-siRNA at concentrations
of 20, 40, 60, and 80 pmol within 24, 48, and 72 h. After determining the optimum dose
and time, flow cytometry was used to measure the apoptosis rate. The MTT assay was also utilized
to evaluate the cytotoxic impact of transfection on the cells. The expression of candidate genes was
measured before and after transfection using qRT-PCR.

Results::

According to obtained results, suppression of ZEB2 expression through siRNA was associated
with the induction of apoptosis, increased pro-apoptotic, and decreased anti-apoptotic gene expression.
Transfection of ZEB2-siRNA was also associated with reduced cell proliferation and viability.

Conclusion::

Our study results suggest that ZEB2 suppression in myeloid leukemia cells through
apoptosis induction could be a proper therapeutic method.
The Design of Experiment Approach, Rheology for Optimization of a Topical Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Cream
Authors: Do Thi-Phuong-Chi , Nguyen Duc-Cuong , Nguyen Tien-Dat , Bui Quang-Dong , Nguyen Canh-Hung , Nguyen Thanh-Binh , Quyen-Do  , Tung Nguyen-Thach
Published: January 2021

Background::

A capsaicin cream was formulated by optimizing the rheological stability,
the release behavior of the drug, and the pharmacological effect.

Objectives::

This study aimed to: (a) apply the Design of Experiment approach to study the rheological
stability and release behaviors of a drug (capsaicin) from a formulated oil-in-water cream and
(b) investigate the skin irritation and anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the optimized
cream.

Methods::

The cream prepared by the emulsification method was optimized using the central composite
design, and then the pharmacological effect in experimental animals was determined using
Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA).

Results::

The effects of a permeation enhancer (X1), Vaseline (X2), and surfactants (X3) on the fluctuation
of the ratio of the viscous modulus (G ') to elastic modulus (G') (tan δ) after three cycles of
cooling-heating (10-40°C), flux, and skin deposition of capsaicin after 8 h on mouse skin were statistically
analyzed and optimized. The final obtained CAP-cream did not cause irritation in the rabbit
model and produced comparable anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects to the reference product
(Voltaren® emulgel).

Conclusions::

This study successfully integrated the DoE approach, rheological science, and pharmacological
studies to develop a stable and highly effective semi-solid product containing capsaicin.
Protectors of the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore Activated by Iron and Doxorubicin
Authors: Fedotcheva Tatiana A. , Fedotcheva Nadezhda I.
Published: January 2021

Aim:

The study is aimed at examining of action of iron, DOX, and their complex on the
Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore (MPTP) opening and detecting of possible protectors
of MPTP in the conditions close to mitochondria-dependent ferroptosis.

Background:

The Toxicity of Doxorubicin (DOX) is mainly associated with free iron accumulation
and mitochondrial dysfunction. DOX can provoke ferroptosis, iron-dependent cell death driven
by membrane damage. The Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore (MPTP) is considered
as a common pathway leading to the development of apoptosis, necrosis, and, possibly, ferroptosis.
The influence of DOX on the Ca2+ -induced MPTP opening in the presence of iron has not yet been
studied.

Objective:

The study was conducted on isolated liver and heart mitochondria. MPTP and succinate-
ubiquinone oxidoreductase were studied as targets of DOX in mitochondria-dependent ferroptosis.
The iron chelator deferoxamine (DFO), the lipid radical scavenger butyl-hydroxytoluene (BHT),
and rutenium red (Rr), as a possible inhibitor of ferrous ions uptake in mitochondria, were
tested as MPTP protectors. The role of medium alkalization was also examined.

Methods:

Changes of threshold calcium concentrations required for MPTP opening were measured
by a Ca2+ selective electrode, mitochondrial membrane potential was registered by tetraphenylphosphonium
(TPP+)-selective electrode, and mitochondrial swelling was recorded as a decrease in absorbance
at 540 nm. The activity of Succinate Dehydrogenase (SDH) was determined by the reduction
of the electron acceptor DCPIP.

Conclusion:

MPTP and the respiratory complex II are identified as the main targets of the iron-dependent
action of DOX on the isolated mitochondria. All MPTP protectors tested abolished or
weakened the effect of iron and a complex of iron with DOX on Ca2+ -induced MPTP opening, acting
in different stages of MPTP activation.

:

These data open new approaches to the modulation of the toxic influence of DOX on mitochondria
with the aim to reduce their dysfunction.
The Impacts of Non-coding RNAs and N6-Methyladenosine on Cancer: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Xu Zhaoyuan , Ji Guohua , Cui Ying , Cui Xiaobo
Published: January 2021

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications control multifaceted RNA metabolism and are one of the
most extensively distributed modifications on the human transcriptome, including non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs).
Previous concepts of ncRNAs as “junk” transcriptional products have evolved to the concept that ncRNAs
are functional regulatory molecules that determine specific biological processes and cell fates. The dysregulation
of m6A modifications and ncRNAs have been implicated in the development of human carcinogenesis.
Certain types of ncRNAs have been reported to exert regulatory effects on m6A machinery. However, a better
understanding of the relationship between m6A modifications and ncRNAs in cancer is still needed. This review
discusses mutual interactions between m6A modifications and ncRNAs and their impacts on the development
of human cancer. We summarize the clinical significance of m6A-ncRNA networks for cancer diagnosis
and treatment, and we ask challenging questions that remain unanswered in this field of research. Understanding
the complex coordination between m6A modifications and ncRNAs will be useful for guiding the development
of therapeutic interventions.
Early Biomarkers and Intervention Programs for the Infant Exposed to Prenatal Stress
Authors: Antonelli Marta C. , Frasch Martin G. , Rumi Mercedes , Sharma Ritika , Zimmermann Peter , Molinet Maria S. , Lobmaier Silvia M.
Published: January 2021

Functional development of affective and reward circuits, cognition and response inhibition later in life exhibits vulnerability periods during gestation and early childhood. Extensive evidence supports the model that exposure to stressors in the gestational period and early postnatal life increases an individual's susceptibility to future impairments of functional development. Recent versions of this model integrate epigenetic mechanisms of the developmental response. Their understanding will guide the future treatment of the associated neuropsychiatric disorders. A combination of non-invasively obtainable physiological signals and epigenetic biomarkers related to the principal systems of the stress response, the Hypothalamic-Pituitary axis (HPA) and the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), are emerging as the key predictors of neurodevelopmental outcomes. Such electrophysiological and epigenetic biomarkers can prove to timely identify children benefiting most from early intervention programs. Such programs should ameliorate future disorders in otherwise healthy children. The recently developed Early Family-Centered Intervention Programs aim to influence the care and stimuli provided daily by the family and improving parent/child attachment, a key element for healthy socio-emotional adult life. Although frequently underestimated, such biomarker-guided early intervention strategy represents a crucial first step in the prevention of future neuropsychiatric problems and in reducing their personal and societal impact.
Recent Discussions on Dopamine Supersensitivity Psychosis: Eight Points to Consider When Diagnosing Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
Authors: Kanahara Nobuhisa , Kimura Hiroshi , Oda Yasunori , Ito Fumiaki , Iyo Masaomi
Published: January 2021

Dopamine supersensitivity psychosis is a clinical concept characterized by an unstable
psychotic state and tardive dyskinesia in schizophrenia patients at the chronic stage. This state is
thought to be induced by compensatory upregulation of dopamine D2 receptors, which is provoked
by long-term and/or high-dose medications. Recent clinical data suggest that patients who responded
well to medication but later exhibit dopamine supersensitivity develop tolerance to antipsychotics’
effects and eventually transit to treatment-resistant schizophrenia, indicating that dopamine
supersensitivity could be an etiology contributing to treatment-resistant schizophrenia.
However, clinicians and researchers consider dopamine supersensitivity psychosis a minor phenomenon
during the clinical course and do not make much of it. This opinion is often based on numerous
clinical data indicating that dopamine supersensitivity psychosis is a relatively rare event. This
review examines the data dealing with dopamine supersensitivity with the five themes of frequency,
severity, withdrawal studies, switching to aripiprazole, and tardive dyskinesia. These effects of
these themes on discussions of the clinical meaning of dopamine supersensitivity psychosis are
then reviewed. The present review will help clinicians speculate about the background of severe
psychopathology in a given patient; to make diagnoses of treatment-resistant schizophrenia and dopamine
supersensitivity psychosis; and plan antipsychotic medication regimens with the goal of
achieving better long-term prognosis.
The Pathogenesis of Neurotrauma Indicates Targets for Neuroprotective Therapies
Authors: Kwiecien Jacek M.
Published: January 2021

The spinal cord injury (SCI) initiates an extraordinarily protracted disease with 3 phases;
acute, inflammatory, and resolution that are restricted to the cavity of injury (COI) or arachnoiditis
by a unique CNS reaction against the severity of destructive inflammation. While the severity of
inflammation involving the white matter is fueled by a potently immunogenic activity of damaged
myelin, its sequestration in the COI and its continuity with the cerebrospinal fluid of the subdural
space allow anti-inflammatory therapeutics infused subdurally to inhibit phagocytic macrophage
infiltration and thus provide neuroprotection. The role of astrogliosis in containing and ultimately in
eliminating severe destructive inflammation post-trauma appears obvious but is not yet sufficiently
understood to use in therapeutic neuroprotective and neuroregenerative strategies. An apparent antiinflammatory
activity of reactive astrocytes is paralleled by their active role in removing excess
edema fluid in blood-brain barrier damaged by inflammation. Recently elucidated pathogenesis of
neurotrauma, including SCI, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and stroke, calls for the following principal
therapeutic steps in its treatment leading to the recovery of neurologic function: (1) inhibition
and elimination of destructive inflammation from the COI with accompanying reduction of
vasogenic edema, (2) insertion into the COI of a functional bridge supporting the crossing of regenerating
axons, (3) enabling regeneration of axons to their original synaptic targets by temporary safe
removal of myelin in targeted areas of white matter, (4) in vivo, systematic monitoring of the consecutive
therapeutic steps. The focus of this paper is on therapeutic step 1.
Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Colonic Diverticulum Complications
Authors: BaŞtuğ Betül Tiryaki
Published: January 2021

Cases of diverticulosis of the colon continue to increase, especially in the Western countries.
In these countries, two-thirds of the population older than 70 years of age are considered to
experience this disease. Medical and surgical treatment for diverticulosis actually begun for the
complications of diverticulitis and lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage. The first evaluation of complicated
diverticular disease is based on patient’s history, physical examination, and laboratory data.
But all these exams and data can be inaccurate and are often questionable in the diagnoses of
many features of the disease. To describe the position, severity, and presence of complications of a
detected diverticulum is crucial to its appropriate treatment. The greater part of the patients have
mild disease and can be successfully cured medically. Only a small number of patients admit with
acute diverticulitis and need urgent surgical intervention. Determining these patients early is crucial
to morbidity and mortality reduction. Radiologic examination is important for exact evaluation
of the extent of the course of the disease over the last three decades. This article aims to chart the
place of the Computed Tomography (CT) imaging procedure in the assessment of acute complicated
diverticular disease.
Novel Electrochemical Sensor for Rifampicin based on Ionic Liquid Functionalised TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Chokkareddy Rajasekhar , Redhi Gan G.
Published: January 2021

Aim::

The main strategy of this study is to develop a novel ionic liquid functionalised metal nanocomposite based electrochemical sensor with potential applications for the sensitive electrochemical detection of rifampicin.

Background::

Tuberculosis (TB) is a widespread disease that is caused by the gram-positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). In addition, for several decades TB has become a constant threat to human health, however due to the accessibility of broad-spectrum antibiotics (rifampicin, pyrazinamide, isoniazid, and ethambutol), which are active against the bacterium, the social and economic burden for sufferers from the illness remains to be huge. Specially, in countries, like India and sub Saharan Africa, it is one of the common diseases affecting members from all age groups. So, this work is aimed at developing a novel electrochemical sensor for the determination of rifampicin (RIF) in pharmaceutical samples.

Objective::

To synthesis and characterization of the novel liquid functionalised metal nanocomposite. Fabrication of glassy carbon electrode with potent electrode modifiers whose applicability as electro catalysis agents towards rifampicin is investigated.

Method::

In this work, a nanocomposite based on trihexyltetradecylphosphonium-bis-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-phosphinate ([P14, 6, 6, 6] [(C8H17)2 PO2)]) ionic liquid functionalised titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used in the modification of a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor for quantification of rifampicin in pharmaceutical formulations. The modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) were characterised by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD).

Results::

The electrochemical behaviour of RIF was studied on the modified electrode by the cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) techniques. At pH 6.0 in phosphate buffer solution (PBS), the anodic peak current value of RIF obtained with the fabricated electrode is 7 times greater than with the bare GCE electrode. The anodic peak current value and concentration of RIF showed a good linear relationship in the range of 0.015–2.8 μM, with the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.0218 μM and limit of quantification (LOQ) 0.3120 μM respectively.

Conclusion::

Under the optimal conditions, the IL-f-TiO2NPs-MWCNTs-GCE provided a relatively lower detection limit and wider linear range compared to other previous procedures. The proposed electrochemical sensor had potent catalytic activity for RIF oxidation and provided important quantitatively reproducible analytical performance. Finally, this modified electrode was successfully applied to the determination of RIF in real pharmaceutical samples.
Past, Present and Future of Electroanalytical Sensor for Aspirin, Ibuprofen and Paracetamol Detection
Authors: Kang Jian , Li Xuejiao , Ji Hong , Gong Ping , Li Nan
Published: January 2021

Background:

Pain not only affects the quality of life of an individual but can also cause
mental illness due to the lack of effective treatment for long-term pain. Analgesics refer to drugs
that can partially or completely relieve pain, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and
central analgesics.

Methods:

In recent years, the cross integration of electrochemical analysis technology with biochemistry,
materials science, biomedicine and other disciplines has driven the vigorous development
of electrochemical sensing technology in the field of life sciences. The electrochemical sensor
has many advantages, such as simple equipment, good specificity, high sensitivity, economy
and convenience. As a newly emerging technology, electrochemical sensing technology has been
increasingly used in drug analysis.

Results:

This review introduces the recent advances of the detection of analgesics using electrochemical
technology. We deliberately selected three representative drugs for discussion: aspirin,
ibuprofen and paracetamol.

Conclusion:

Electrochemical sensing technology has the advantages of high sensitivity, a low detection
limit and simple operation. However, sensors still have some technical problems, such as
the existence of many interference factors in actual samples in blood drug concentration monitoring
and the need to further optimize the method conditions for multi-channel detection. With the
continuous advancement of research, the application of new detection methods, nanomaterials, and
biomolecules has enabled electrochemical technology to make certain progress in the field of drug
analysis. In particular, the emergence of new nanomaterials will greatly promote the development
of electrochemical sensing technology in drug analysis. As a cutting-edge technology, electrochemical
sensing technology has enormous potential application value.
Cell Sources in Cardiac Tissue Engineering: Current Choices
Authors: Milan Peiman Brouki , Amini Naser , Mehrabi Arezou , Mousazadeh Sepideh , Ababzadeh Shima , Rezapour Alireza
Published: January 2021

The past decade has evidenced numerous developments in the treatment of heart diseases;
however many patients with chronic heart failure suffer from low quality of life. Therapeutic
methods, including drug-delivery as well as heart transplantation, have been used to improve quality
of life. Cell therapy and tissue engineering have been recently introduced to the field of
medicine as a novel therapeutic approach. Treatment of heart diseases has seen novel development
through the introduction of cell therapy approaches. Based on the evidence, cell therapy has
emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cardiac diseases. Since the first
cell transplant to patients, different types of (stem) cells have been studied. This study aims to provide
a comprehensive review of different types of cells and their roles in cardiac cell-based therapy.
MDAPlatform: A Component-based Platform for Constructing and Assessing miRNA-disease Association Prediction Methods
Authors: Zhang Yayan , Duan Guihua , Yan Cheng , Yi Haolun , Wu Fang-Xiang , Wang Jianxin
Published: January 2021

Background:

Increasing evidence has indicated that miRNA-disease association prediction plays a critical role
in the study of clinical drugs. Researchers have proposed many computational models for miRNA-disease prediction.
However, there is no unified platform to compare and analyze the pros and cons or share the code and data of these models.

Objective:

In this study, we develop an easy-to-use platform (MDAPlatform) to construct and assess miRNA-disease
association prediction method.

Methods:

MDAPlatform integrates the relevant data of miRNA, disease and miRNA-disease associations
that are used in previous miRNA-disease association prediction studies. Based on the componentized
model, it develops different components of previous computational methods.

Results:

Users can conduct cross validation experiments and compare their methods with other methods, and the visualized
comparison results are also provided.

Conclusion:

Based on the componentized model, MDAPlatform provides easy-to-operate interfaces to construct the
miRNA-disease association method, which is beneficial to develop new miRNA-disease association prediction methods in
the future.
Role of Nanotechnology in Electronics: A Review of Recent Developments
and Patents
Authors: Payal  , Pandey Parijat
Published: January 2021

Background:

Nanotechnology assures to be the base of the upcoming industrial revolution. The role that
nanotechnology plays in electronic devices became a question of concern among the researchers when nanotechnology
started to be the focal point of research programs in developed and developing countries of the world. Nanoelectronics,
formed by combining nanotechnology and electronics deals with the handling, characterization, engineering, and
manufacturing of electronic devices at nanoscale.

Method:

By reducing the size of materials, their electronic properties alter, and inter-atomic interactions and quantum
effects gain significant importance. The challenge lies in interpreting their electronic properties at nanoscale so that they
can be exploited for use in new generation electronic devices. Need to trim downsize and have a higher component
density have ushered us into an era of nanoelectronics.

Results:

This work presents a detailed review of nanotechnology, its approach towards nanoelectronics, classification and
types of nanomaterials used in nanoelectronics, application areas of nanoelectronics and measuring instruments with
characterization at nanoscale. Also, the work incorporates latest developments and patents in nanoelectronics.

Conclusion:

In this manuscript, the authors have reviewed different aspects of nanotechnology in the field of electronics,
recent patents and related advancements.
Pengaruh Perbedaan Konsentrasi Surfaktan Non Ionik terhadap Karaktersitik Niosom Pterostilben
Authors:   Jurusan Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, Zulfa Kartika , Widodo Ferri ,   Jurusan Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, Eka Puspita Oktavia ,   Jurusan Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia
Published: January 2021

Excessive radiation from UV light can cause skin damage to melanoma, especially UVB rays. Chronic effects from exposure of excessive UVB rays can induce gene mutations because the exposure of excessive UVB rays directly causes damage to cellular DNA by producing ROS in the epidermis, dermis, and skin epithelium cells. The use of sunscreen is very necessary to prevent skin damage. Sunscreen containing antioxidants are highly recommended to protect the skin from free radicals UVB rays. Pterostilbene is one of the phenolic compounds, which has the pharmacological activity of antioxidants and UV filters to be one of the recommended compounds for sunscreen components. A good delivery system is needed to be formulated to improve the pharmacological effects of pterostilbene on topical use. Niosomes are non-ionic surfactant vesicles which are one of the amphiphilic carrier systems which can carry hydrophobic active ingredients such as pterostilbene, which are expected to increase the pharmacological effect by increasing the penetration of pterostilbene into the skin. Pterostilbene niosome using non-ionic surfactant (span 80 and span 60) by thin layer hydration method. The research aimed to examine the effect of surfactant concentration (span 80 and span 60) 2, 4, and 6 g toward the characterization of niosome pterostilbene and determine the optimum formulation by particle size. The results of the study showed that the particle size was smaller with an increase in span concentration. Based on these results, the optimum formulation of pterostilbene niosomes is obtained using span 60 with a concentration of 6 g.
Cyber Public Relations Sadewa Market dan Interaktivitas Penggiat UMKM di Jawa Tengah
Authors: Hasna Sofia
Published: January 2021

Sadewa Market UMKM website is one of the alternative public services in Central Java with empowerment programs on UMKM. Sadewa Market functioned as a means for cyber public relations in the digital age. This article seeks the activities of Cyber Public Relations on the Sadewa Market Website and the extent to which interactivity is built between the government and the community. Through case studies, this research was conducted with interviews and observations to the central Java provincial government and UMKM actors throughout 2017-2018. This study revealed that the Cyber PR Activity of Sadewa Market UMKM Website is intended to increase interactivity between the Central Java Provincial Government and UMKM activists. Cyber PR activities are driven by the Dinas Koperasi & UMKM of Central Java Provincial Government through attracting visitors, engagement & dialogue, defensive/crisis, and building campaigns. The digital assistance page on the Website of Sadewa Market encourages interactivity, integration, and information publication. Public engagement is part of Cyber PR activities by emphasizing feedback and asymmetric communication. There are several notes on Cyber PR Website activities, namely regular media monitoring programs, social listening, and content design activities for the formation of public opinion. These notes need to be considered so that Cyber PR activities can be consistent and sustainable.
Worm Food: Towards a Typology of Worm and Lice Disease-Descriptions in Graeco-Roman Narratives
Authors: Zeichmann Christopher B.
Published: January 2021

Two disease-descriptions featured in ancient literature (skolekosis and phthiriasis) have long been interpreted as evidence of medical illness, but this paper argues that they should be understood as strictly literary phenomena; they do not describe any diseases that occurred in the ancient Mediterranean world. The lack of correspondence between narrative literature and ancient medical writings controverts the dominant scholarly assumption that these diseases had some basis in history/medicine. Instead, this paper argues that four relatively distinct conceptions of skolekosis and phthiriasis were at play in ancient literature, despite their shared use of worms and lice. With a clearer understanding of this typology, we are better positioned to understand the normative function of narratives depicting skolekosis and phthiriasis.
El medio ambiente, la pobreza y el crecimiento económico en México
Authors: Godínez Montoya Lucila , Figueroa Hernández Esther , Pérez Soto Francisco
Published: January 2021

La presente investigación busca contribuir a la discusión y análisis empírico de los factores socioeconómicos que afectan a la degradación del medio ambiente para el caso específico de México. El objetivo consistió en determinar si el crecimiento económico (Producto interno bruto real per cápita) del país contribuye a la degradación del medio ambiente, y si paralelo a la actividad económica, la población pobre también inciden sobre ella; claramente, se busca validar la existencia de una Curva de Kuznets Ambiental (CKA-extendida) para México durante el periodo 2003-2017; tomando como indicador de la degradación ambiental a los costos totales por agotamiento de los recursos naturales y la degradación ambiental. Se estimaron dos modelos de regresión, uno lineal múltiple y otro polinomial cúbico, mediante el método de mínimos cuadrados ordinarios. A partir de su estimación se encontró que existe una relación positiva entre la degradación ambiental y el crecimiento económico, así como con la población pobre; confirmándose la existencia de la CKA-extendida para México.
Financial constraint and foreign direct investment of SMEs: evidence from Portugal
Authors: Machado Correia Brioso Dias Isabel Maria , Santos Fernandes Diana
Published: January 2021

Este trabajo intenta explorar las limitaciones de financiación percibidas por las pequeñas y medianas empresas (PYMES) portuguesas que realizan inversiones directas extranjeras (IED) productivas. Se basa en datos primarios y presenta un análisis empírico exploratorio. Los resultados demuestran una fuerte dependencia de los fondos internos y ligero énfasis en las deficiencias del mercado en la financiación de la IED, no reportando diferencias notables en las limitaciones de financiación entre las inversiones nacionales y extranjeras, pero esta renuencia de las PYMES portuguesas a la financiación externa no se corresponde con la voluntad de abrir el capital social a nuevos accionistas. Los empresarios portugueses no conocen alternativas para aliviar la dependencia de los fondos nacionales a la IED. Los bancos y el gobierno podrían contribuir en este campo, también recomendamos una mayor alfabetización financiera en las PYMES portuguesas. Este trabajo está limitado por su muestra y su naturaleza cualitativa. Aunque existe abundante literatura sobre el acceso a la financiación de los agentes económicos, hasta el día de hoy este trabajo es el primero que se centra en las PYMES portuguesas a través de datos primarios, de ahí su originalidad. Al informar sobre la reticencia de las PYMES a la financiación externa, puede mejorar la capacidad de los financiadores externos en captar esos clientes.
Diversidad genética del aguacate criollo en Nayarit, México, determinada por ISSR
Authors: López Guzmán Graciela Guadalupe , Palomino-Hermosillo Yolotzin Apatzingan , Balois-Morales Rosendo , Bautista-Rosales Pedro Ulises , Jiménez-Zurita José Orlando
Published: January 2021

Los frutos de aguacate son nutritivos y de gran aceptación para su consumo en fresco. México es uno de los países con mayor producción y consumo de aguacate a nivel mundial. Las condiciones geográficas y edafoclimáticas de Nayarit, México, han sido idóneas para la reproducción del género Persea, por lo que existe un gran acervo genético del aguacate. El objetivo fue analizar la diversidad genética de Persea americana criollo del estado de Nayarit con los marcadores genéticos ISSR que son altamente polimórficos. Se recolectaron 43 materiales de aguacate criollo en cinco municipios de Nayarit, México. El nivel de diversidad genética detectado fue del 64 %, mientras que el análisis molecular de varianza indicó que la mayor variación se encuentra dentro de las poblaciones (82 %). La distancia genética de Nei y Li (Dice) agruparon los genotipos entre grupos de acuerdo con las distancias genéticas y se observó que la agrupación en la mayoría de los nodos estuvo asociada a la situación geográfica o climática. La información generada de esta investigación puede ser útil para construir estrategias de conservación y manejo del cultivo.
Impacts of Low-cost Robotic Pets for Older Adults and People With Dementia: Scoping Review
Authors: Koh Wei Qi , Ang Faith Xin Hui , Casey Dympna
Published: January 2021

Background

Older adults and people with dementia are particularly vulnerable to social isolation. Social robots, including robotic pets, are promising technological interventions that can benefit the psychosocial health of older adults and people with dementia. However, issues such as high costs can lead to a lack of equal access and concerns about infection control. Although there are previous reviews on the use of robotic pets for older adults and people with dementia, none have included or had a focus on low-cost and familiarly and realistically designed pet robots.

Objective

The aim of this review is to synthesize evidence on the delivery and impact of low-cost, familiarly and realistically designed interactive robotic pets for older adults and people with dementia.

Methods

The Arksey and O’Malley framework was used to guide this review. First, the research question was identified. Second, searches were conducted on five electronic databases and Google Scholar. Studies were selected using a two-phase screening process, where two reviewers independently screened and extracted data using a standardized data extraction form. Finally, the results were discussed, categorized, and presented narratively.

Results

A total of 9 studies were included in the review. Positive impacts related to several psychosocial domains, including mood and affect, communication and social interaction, companionship, and other well-being outcomes. Issues and concerns associated with its use included misperceptions of the robotic pets as a live animal, ethical issues of attachment, negative reactions by users, and other pragmatic concerns such as hygiene and cost.

Conclusions

Overall, the findings resonate with previous studies that investigated the effectiveness of other social robots, demonstrating the promise of these low-cost robotic pets in addressing the psychosocial needs of older adults and people with dementia. The affordability of these robotic pets appeared to influence the practicalities of real-world use, such as intervention delivery and infection control, which are especially relevant in light of COVID-19. Moving forward, studies should also consider comparing the effects of these low-cost robots with other robotic pets.
It Is Time to REACT: Opportunities for Digital Mental Health Apps to Reduce Mental Health Disparities in Racially and Ethnically Minoritized Groups (Preprint)
Authors: Friis-Healy Elsa A , Nagy Gabriela A , Kollins Scott H
Published: January 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

The behavioral health toll of the COVID-19 pandemic and systemic racism has directed increased attention to the potential of digital health as a way of improving access to and quality of behavioral health care. However, as the pandemic continues to widen health disparities in racially and ethnically minoritized groups, concerns arise around an increased reliance on digital health technologies exacerbating the digital divide and reinforcing rather than mitigating systemic health inequities in communities of color. As funding for digital mental health continues to surge, we offer five key recommendations on how the field can “REACT” to ensure the development of approaches that increase health equity by increasing real-world evidence, educating consumers and providers, utilizing adaptive interventions to optimize care, creating for diverse populations, and building trust. Recommendations highlight the need to take a strengths-based view when designing for racially and ethnically diverse populations and embracing the potential of digital approaches to address complex challenges.
Integration of Digital Tools Into Community Mental Health Care Settings That Serve Young People: Focus Group Study (Preprint)
Authors: Knapp Ashley A , Cohen Katherine , Nicholas Jennifer , Mohr David C , Carlo Andrew D , Skerl Joshua J , Lattie Emily G
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Digital mental health tools have substantial potential to be easily integrated into people’s lives and fundamentally impact public health. Such tools can extend the reach and maximize the impact of mental health interventions. Before implementing digital tools in new settings, it is critical to understand what is important to organizations and individuals who will implement and use these tools. Given that young people are highly familiar with technology and many mental health concerns emerge in childhood and adolescence, it is especially crucial to understand how digital tools can be integrated into settings that serve young people.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to learn about considerations and perspectives of community behavioral health care providers on incorporating digital tools into their clinical care for children and adolescents.

METHODS

Data were analyzed from 5 focus groups conducted with clinicians (n=37) who work with young people at a large community service organization in the United States. This organization provides care to more than 27,000 people annually, most of whom are of low socioeconomic status. The transcripts were coded using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Clinicians first provided insight into the digital tools they were currently using in their treatment sessions with young people, such as web-based videos and mood-tracking apps. They explained that their main goals in using these tools were to help young people build skills, facilitate learning, and monitor symptoms. Benefits were expressed, such as engagement of adolescents in treatment, along with potential challenges (eg, accessibility and limited content) and developmental considerations (eg, digital devices getting taken away as punishment). Clinicians discussed their desire for a centralized digital platform that securely connects the clinician, young person, and caregivers. Finally, they offered several considerations for integrating digital tools into mental health care, such as setting up expectations with clients and the importance of human support.

CONCLUSIONS

Young people have unique considerations related to complex accessibility patterns and technology expectations that may not be observed when adults are the intended users of mental health technologies. Therefore, these findings provide critical insights to inform the development of future tools, specifically regarding connectivity, conditional restraints (eg, devices taken away as punishment and school restrictions), expectations of users from different generations, and the blended nature in which digital tools can support young people.

CLINICALTRIAL
Preparing Patients and Clinicians for Open Notes in Mental Health: Qualitative Inquiry of International Experts (Preprint)
Authors: Blease Charlotte , Torous John , Kharko Anna , DesRoches Catherine M , Harcourt Kendall , O'Neill Stephen , Salmi Liz , Wachenheim Deborah , Hägglund Maria
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

In a growing number of countries worldwide, clinicians are sharing mental health notes, including psychiatry and psychotherapy notes, with patients.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to solicit the views of experts on provider policies and patient and clinician training or guidance in relation to open notes in mental health care.

METHODS

In August 2020, we conducted a web-based survey of international experts on the practice of sharing mental health notes. Experts were identified as informaticians, clinicians, chief medical information officers, patients, and patient advocates who have extensive research knowledge about or experience of providing access to or having access to mental health notes. This study undertook a qualitative descriptive analysis of experts’ written responses and opinions (comments) to open-ended questions on training clinicians, patient guidance, and suggested policy regulations.

RESULTS

A total of 70 of 92 (76%) experts from 6 countries responded. We identified four major themes related to opening mental health notes to patients: the need for clarity about provider policies on exemptions, providing patients with basic information about open notes, clinician training in writing mental health notes, and managing patient-clinician disagreement about mental health notes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides timely information on policy and training recommendations derived from a wide range of international experts on how to prepare clinicians and patients for open notes in mental health. The results of this study point to the need for further refinement of exemption policies in relation to sharing mental health notes, guidance for patients, and curricular changes for students and clinicians as well as improvements aimed at enhancing patient and clinician-friendly portal design.
Coinfection With SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A(H1N1) in a Patient Seen at an Influenza-like Illness Surveillance Site in Egypt: Case Report (Preprint)
Authors: Fahim Manal , Ghonim Hanaa Abu El Sood , Roshdy Wael H , Naguib Amel , Elguindy Nancy , AbdelFatah Mohamad , Hassany Mohamed , Mohsen Amira , Afifi Salma , Eid Alaa
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Sentinel surveillance of influenza-like illness (ILI) in Egypt started in 2000 at 8 sentinel sites geographically distributed all over the country. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 was added to the panel of viral testing by polymerase chain reaction for the first 2 patients with ILI seen at one of the sentinel sites. We report the first SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A(H1N1) virus co-infection with mild symptoms detected through routine ILI surveillance in Egypt.

OBJECTIVE

This report aims to describe how the case was identified and the demographic and clinical characteristics and outcomes of the patient.

METHODS

The case was identified by Central Public Health Laboratory staff, who contacted the ILI sentinel surveillance officer at the Ministry of Health. The case patient was contacted through a telephone call. Detailed information about the patient’s clinical picture, course of disease, and outcome was obtained. The contacts of the patient were investigated for acute respiratory symptoms, disease confirmation, and outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 510 specimens collected from patients with ILI symptoms from October 2019 to August 2020, 61 (12.0%) were COVID-19–positive and 29 (5.7%) tested positive for influenza, including 15 (51.7%) A(H1N1), 11 (38.0%) A(H3N2), and 3 (10.3%) influenza B specimens. A 21-year-old woman was confirmed to have SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A(H1N1) virus coinfection. She had a high fever of 40.2 °C and mild respiratory symptoms that resolved within 2 days with symptomatic treatment. All five of her family contacts had mild respiratory symptoms 2-3 days after exposure to the confirmed case, and their symptoms resolved without treatment or investigation.

CONCLUSIONS

This case highlights the possible occurrence of SARS-CoV-2/influenza A(H1N1) coinfection in younger and healthy people, who may resolve the infection rapidly. We emphasize the usefulness of the surveillance system for detection of viral causative agents of ILI and recommend broadening of the testing panel, especially if it can guide case management.
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH BODY MASS INDEX IN CHILDREN – A COMMUNITY-BASED STUDY
Authors: PALADUGU NIKHILA , RAYITI RAMAKRISHNA , NUTAKKI SIDDHARTHA , GADDE RAJASREE , K SAILAJA , GHANTA VIJAYA KUMAR , SRUJANI KANAGALA VISWA
Published: January 2021

Objectives: The increasing prevalence of overweight, obesity, and underweight in children has implications for their future health and it is vital to understand the modifiable factors that contribute to it. The study’s main objective is to determine the factors associated with the body mass index in children.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 346 school children over a period of 6 months. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire. Physical measurements such as height and weight were obtained from parents. Body mass index was calculated using kg/m2. Children were categorized as overweight, obese, normal, and underweight using their body mass index scores and the factors associated with BMI in children were estimated.

Results: The prevalence of overweight, obesity, normal, and underweight among children was 10.40%, 17.92%, 24.28%, and 41.67%, respectively. Intake of fast food, sweetened beverages, junk food, and consumption of food while watching television, media time indicated a significant relationship with body mass index.

Conclusion: Health care professionals should educate parents and children regarding healthy nutrition and regular physical activity. The implications of obesity, overweight, and underweight should be well explained to make desirable lifestyle modifications for a better future.
Aspek Legalitas Penyimpanan Minuta Akta Notaris Secara Elektronik
Authors: Nisa' Naily Zahrotun
Published: January 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk (1) menjelaskan makna keautentikan dari segi hukum perdata Belanda dan Indonesia, (2) menjelaskan aspek legalitas serta mekanisme penyimpanan minuta akta secara elektronik di Indonesia, (3) menjelaskan kekuatan pembuktian minuta akta elektronik di muka pengadilan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah yuridis normatif dengan cara menelaah teori, konsep hukum serta peraturan perundang-undangan yang berkaitan dengan penelitian ini. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa minuta akta notaris yang disimpan secara elektronik dapat terjaga keautentikan dan keamanannya. Solusinya dengan adanya harmonisasi antara regulasi dan teknologi yang didukung adanya sistem identifikasi dan autentikasi yang akuntabel. hal tersebut dapat merujuk pada penyelenggaraan keautentikan dokumen di Belanda dengan harmonisasi ketentuan regional uni eropa  berupa peraturan nomor 910 tahun 2014 tentang e-identification and trust services.
Islamic Perspective on Creative Marine Ecotourism Development Policy in Kalanganyar Village Sedati Sidoarjo
Authors: Tamrin M. Husni
Published: January 2021

This study aims to describe a development policy and supporting factors, and also inhibitors of marine ecotourism in Kalanganyar Village, Kalanganyar Village in Sidoarjo Regency in an Islamic perspective. This study used qualitative method with an interaction model consisting of 3 (three) activities: data reduction, data presentation, and drawing a conclusion. Data collection were obtained from direct observations at the research location and also interviews with the Sidoarjo tourism office and visitors to the marine tourism of Kalanganyar Village. The results of this study indicate that Kalanganyar Village has a variety of tourism potential, although there is still a lack of support from related agencies, such as the existence of infrastructure and service as a tourist destination. However, in broad outline the potential of the Kalanganyar village is superior in Sidoarjo Regency.