bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Religión, gratitud y comportamiento prosocial: un modelo predictivo
Authors: Cuadra Martínez David , Pérez-Zapata Daniel , Sandoval-Díaz José , Castro Pablo Javier , Oyanadel Cristián , Mora-Dabancens Diego , Cuadra-Carrasco Catalina , González-Palta Ingrid
Published: November 2023

Diversas religiones consideran que el comportamiento prosocial es un deber y un valor al interior de sus comunidades de fieles. La evidencia científica ha asociado la prosocialidad con la solución de diversas problemáticas sociales y ambientales. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la influencia de la religión y la gratitud sobre el comportamiento prosocial. Se utilizó una metodología cuantitativa, un diseño transversal y un muestro por conveniencia de 206 adultos (Chile). Se aplicaron escalas de religiosidad, gratitud y prosocialidad. Los datos se analizaron mediante las pruebas U Mann-Whitney, Chi cuadrado, correlación de Spearman y regresión lineal. Se encontró que quienes declaran asistir a una comunidad religiosa muestran mayores niveles de comportamiento prosocial y que el tipo de respuesta prosocial de quienes se declaran religiosos presenta diferencias en función de si el beneficiario integra el endogrupo o el exogrupo religioso. Además, quienes manifiestan sentir gratitud hacia un Dios presentan mayores niveles de comportamiento prosocial que quienes no sienten gratitud. Finalmente, se encontró que las variables prosocialidad, religión y gratitud correlacionan positivamente, y estas dos últimas variables son predictores de la prosocialidad.
Búsqueda e identificación de propósito vital en la adolescencia: desarrollo y validación de una escala para su evaluación
Authors: Molina María Fernanda , Celsi Ignacio , Pérez-Gaido Mauro , Schmidt Vanina
Published: November 2023

El presente estudio tiene como objetivo desarrollar y validar una escala para evaluar la búsqueda e identificación de propósito vital (PV) para su uso con adolescentes de zonas urbanas de Argentina. En total participaron 554 adolescentes (13 a 19 años y de ambos sexos) de escuelas del Área Metropolitana Bonaerense (AMBA). El proceso de desarrollo y validación se realizó a través de tres estudios. En el primero, se elaboró la Escala (denominada Escala de Propósito vital para Adolescentes), se estudió la validez de contenido y su estructura interna por medio de análisis factorial exploratorio. En el segundo, se confirmó dicha estructura por medio de análisis factorial confirmatorio. En el tercero, para obtener evidencias adicionales a favor de la validez de constructo, se indagó la relación entre la búsqueda de PV y la identificación de PV, estudiando la conformación de perfiles (análisis de clúster) y examinando la asociación entre el PV y la claridad en el autoconcepto. Los resultados muestran que la Escala de Propósito vital para Adolescentes presenta una adecuada validez de contenido, factorial y de constructo, y una consistencia interna satisfactoria.
Intervenciones positivas enfocadas en las fortalezas de carácter: aportes para su efectividad e investigación
Authors: Torres y Torres Nicolas Armando , Hernández- Pozo María del Rocío
Published: November 2023

La evidencia actual respecto a la efectividad de las intervenciones basadas en las fortalezas de carácter apunta a señalar el gran potencial que poseen para fomentar el bienestar y reducir la sintomatología depresiva. Sin embargo, aún existen cuestionamientos que es necesario abordar para desarrollar la investigación en curso acerca de este tema. En esta revisión narrativa se evalúan algunos aspectos que pueden orientar esta indagación científica, tales como el papel que tienen las intervenciones personalizadas y sus diferencias con las intervenciones genéricas, las fortalezas correlacionadas con el bienestar, las fortalezas distintivas y los contextos en los que se puede justificar dicho estudio. Se concluye que, pese a las contribuciones al fomento del bienestar a partir de la implementación de este tipo de intervenciones, las evidencias sobre su efectividad aún tienen algunas aristas por explorar que permitirán una mejoría en los efectos obtenidos, tales como los mecanismos y aportaciones que cada una de las fortalezas otorga a otros aspectos del bienestar y al funcionamiento psicológico en diferentes áreas de la vida.
Sustainable management of water
Authors: Murty Bhallamudi S. , Philip Ligy
Published: November 2023

Water is an integral component of several sustainable development goals: SDG-2 (zero hunger); SDG-6 (clean water and sanitation); SDG-11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG-12 (responsible consumption and production). It is used in four major sectors: agricultural; domestic; industrial and ecological, and these needs could often be conflicting with each other. Further, there is a significant temporal and spatial variation in the availability of fresh water in India and in many countries in the Global South. Many countries in the Global South are already facing a major water crisis due to stressors such as increasing population and climate change, among others. Therefore, it is important to manage the scarcely available water in a sustainable way to not only meet the present needs, but also the needs of future generations. In this chapter, we briefly discuss the impending water crisis in India and other nations in the Global South and how to achieve water sustainability, both in urban and rural areas. We discuss index-based methods for measuring sustainability. We also discuss the challenges to achieve water sustainability and the way forward.
Domestic and industrial wastewater treatment: current status and challenges in India
Authors: Vijayanandan Arya , Kazmi Absar Ahmad , Philip Ligy
Published: November 2023

Planned water management is inevitable in India's path towards sustainable development. Rapid urbanization and population growth have resulted in significant amounts of wastewater being generated and severe water pollution-related issues in the country. Given the scarcity of freshwater resources and the extent of pollution, it is essential to implement and maximize safe wastewater reuse. The primary impediment to reaching this goal is the enormous disparity between treatment capacity and wastewater generation. Only effective water usage and wastewater reuse practices will help to meet future water demand. Enforcing zero liquid discharge and stringent regulations to ensure treated wastewater quality are necessary to optimally reuse industrial wastewater. The release of untreated industrial wastewater into municipal sewerage system must be prevented. Selection of the appropriate treatment units, operation and maintenance, and real-time monitoring of wastewater quality are the key measures in ensuring the treated wastewater quality. Moreover, the current wastewater treatment methods need to be modified or upgraded to remove the toxic and emerging contaminants too. This chapter discusses the role of domestic and industrial effluents in water pollution, the challenges encountered, and regulations and policies related to water management. Examples of wastewater reuse and zero liquid discharge are also included in the chapter.
A holistic approach to assess the toxic behaviour of emerging nanomaterials in aquatic system
Authors: Shraogi Nikita , Verma Rahul , Saji Joel , Singh Amrita , Mourya Durgesh P. , Verma Sneha , Pandey Alok K. , Patnaik Satyakam
Published: November 2023

With the advancement of technology, the use of new and improved materials starting from macro- to micro- and nano-range in varied fields has increased exponentially. Although the scientific community has been interested in nanomaterials due to their unique properties, the use of these innovative materials has given rise to concern regarding their potential toxicity to living beings as well as the environment. This chapter elaborates on how emerging nanomaterials behave in relation to dynamic microenvironments at the nano–bio–eco interface level and how this affects their toxicity, fate, and exposure potential. In addition, a brief account of the exposure pathways and different models used for toxicity evaluation is also discussed, vis-à-vis the ongoing research work on toxicity, the role of contributing factors, and the probable alternatives developed to attenuate related hazards, challenges, and future outlook.
Pulsed power technology for water and wastewater treatment
Authors: Jose Jerin , Singh Raj Kamal , Philip Ligy
Published: November 2023

The presence of recalcitrant and hazardous water pollutants poses a serious challenge to conventional water treatment technologies and is motivating the development of advanced treatment approaches like pulsed power technology (PPT). One application of PPT is to generate plasma that can be used for the efficient and rapid degradation of a wide range of emerging water pollutants, including dyes, pesticides, toxic solvents, and pharmaceuticals, and for the disinfection of water and wastewater. Plasma-based water treatment utilizes electrical discharge plasmas formed in contact with or in the vicinity of water to degrade chemicals within the contaminated water. Plasma in these conditions can produce a diverse range of highly reactive species, including strong oxidants (•OH) and reductants (eˉaq), which are suitable for the simultaneous oxidation and reduction of the organic compounds present in highly complex wastewater such as industrial effluents. PPT exhibits the advantages of fast pollutant degradation kinetics, relatively low energy input, and the absence of chemical additives, making it a promising alternative water treatment technology. The increasing demand for water treatment technologies for treating hazardous chemicals with no/minimal generation of secondary pollutants may accelerate the adoption of safe and energy-efficient technologies like PPT.
Nutrient recovery from wastewater for circular economy
Authors: Nagabalaji V. , Madhumidha M. , Mozhiarasi V. , Das Indrasis , Sathya U. , Sabumon P.C. , Srinivasan S.V.
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the focus of the wastewater management sector has shifted significantly from conventional treatment methods to resource and nutrient recovery techniques to promote a circular economy. The recovery of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater marks a sustainable approach to wastewater management and supports ecological and economic sustainability. This chapter includes a comprehensive overview of existing conventional technologies that are used to recover nutrients from different nutrient-rich wastewater generated from domestic, industrial, and agricultural sources as well as from anaerobic digestate. In addition, various advanced methods, such as chemical processes and biological technologies that are used to recover nutrients are also discussed. Furthermore, a few more unique applications of novel futuristic technologies that are in the budding stage or ready for piloting or commercialization are also included. Finally, future perspectives in terms of possible research directions and breakthroughs of a more economic and efficient alternative approach with minimal carbon footprints are also explored.
Evaluating sustainability for water and wastewater treatment technologies
Authors: Mukherjee Sritama , Nayak Tanmayaa , Pradeep T.
Published: November 2023

High-performance water and wastewater treatment have become feasible with the development of innovative and advanced technologies that may have the potential to have an impact on health and the environment. At the same time, they can be helpful in protecting the environment and meet specific social needs in a more sustainable way. New purification techniques have the potential to lead to the sustainable development of clean water, understand global environmental challenges and seek ways to improve them. Water treatment processes become more environmentally friendly by reducing energy consumption, removing toxic and essential substances and making products sustainable during the synthesis phase. This chapter discusses water treatment in the context of India, the necessity and methods of assessing sustainability, as well as examples of technological assessments for sustainability.
Low-cost colorimetric sensor for water quality monitoring
Authors: Choudhary Vaishali , Vellengiri Kowsalya , Philip Ligy
Published: November 2023

With the increased concentrations of eutrophying ions, heavy metals, and organic contaminants in the water bodies, there is a need to develop tools for regular water quality monitoring. Various sensing techniques such as colorimetric, electrochemical, optical fluidic, and luminescent have been developed to monitor contaminants in water bodies. Many of the reported sensors enable high sensitivity (i.e., nM or ppb detection levels); however, the primary challenges in their field application include complex synthesis approach, reliability in long-term use, poor portability, intensive maintenance, and skilled labour requirement. This chapter reviews the research and development of various low-cost sensors to detect eutrophying anions (nitrate, nitrite, and phosphate), heavy metals (lead, chromium, cadmium, and mercury), pathogens, and emerging contaminants (ECs). The analytical performance, cost, and ease of deployment of sensors for detecting pollutants are critically evaluated. The feasibility of developed sensors for deployment on the Internet of Things platform is also identified. Lastly, a recommendation on the applicability of the developed sensors for field-scale application is presented.
A point-of-use single probe multi-analyte sensor
Authors: Narayanan J. , Yuvaraj P. , Gowthaman J. B. , Kalipriyadharshini M. , Raghava Rao J. , Easwaramoorthi S.
Published: November 2023

Water is an essential molecule for all life on earth and it carries numerous other species including different elements and neutral molecules which necessarily decide its usability for a variety of applications. The presence of external species in water occurs either naturally or due to anthropogenic activities. Though some of them are essential nutrients for living organisms, many of them might lead to adverse health effects. Rapid industrialization and the ever-increasing human population have resulted in an increased demand for potable water. Unfortunately, the scarcity of quality potable water owing to the depletion of resources in several countries demands the identification of new resources and day-to-day water quality monitoring. Indeed, an inadvertent mix of sewage and domestic wastewater in drinking water resources also contributes to water pollution, in addition to industrial waste which is a predominant water-polluting activity. Thus, continuous water quality monitoring at the source is essential which could be achieved by the systematic analysis of the contaminants present therein, even in remote places. While the traditional analytical techniques are quite expensive and hence cannot be deployed in remote places, molecule or material-based identification, that is, sensing of specific target species has been found to be the cost-effective method. Unfortunately, most of the probes that have been developed were specific to one target, which becomes a drawback when analysing the actual sample that would probably consist of several toxic species. Thus, simultaneous analysis of different toxic species with distinctly different signalling pathways is required as a practically viable solution. This chapter will focus on the importance of water quality monitoring, methods, and sensors that operate on colorimetric, luminescent, and electrochemical principles. The toxic species present in the water will be restricted to the metal ions. Furthermore, the molecules which sense more than one or two toxic species simultaneously will be incorporated and the reports of the integrated sensor arrays will also be included.
Chicken feather-derived carbon electrodes for capacitive deionization using poly(vinyl alcohol)-glutaraldehyde as the binder
Authors: Samejo Bakhtiar Ali , Abro Naveed Qasim , Memon Najma , Upoma Nusrat Jahan , Habib Ahsan
Published: November 2023

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an emerging technology which is being developed as a promising desalination alternative for charged species from salt water, being electrode materials as key drivers for highly efficient process. Here, we describe synthesis of highly porous activated carbons from chicken feathers using pyrolysis followed by chemical activation with potassium hydroxide in a 1:4 ratio to produce sustainable, scalable, and sustainable carbon electrodes for CDI. Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was used as binder to modify chicken feather activated carbons (CF-AC), which were subsequently crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GA) to produce CF-AC-PVA-GA polymers through acetylation reaction. This resulted from improving hydrophilicity of CF-AC-PVA-GA polymers to raise the electrodes' resistance. Prepared materials were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller and cyclic voltammetry. Fabricated CDI electrodes were used to investigate their performance for desalination, and exhibited different electrosorption capacity at different applied potentials. Modified electrodes possessed good stability in shear conditions and CDI process was stable and reproducible around 16 electrosorption cycles. Salt removal capacity of the modified electrodes (CF-AC-PVA-GA) was found to be 3.89 mg g−1. The obtained outcomes offer important considerations of ions electrosorption and help advancing CDI system for water treatment and desalination.
Combining Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and Preliminary
Experiments to Explore the Mechanism of Action of FZKA Formula on
Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Liu Zhuixing , Zhang Jie , Liu Jinpeng , Guo Lihong , Chen Guangwei , Fang Yu , Yang Yang
Published: November 2023

Background:

Clinically, Fuzhengkangai formulation (FZKA) has been proven to have
significant therapeutic effects on non-small lung cancer (NSCLC), although the mechanism is unknown.
We aimed to explore the potential mechanism of FZKA in the treatment of NSCLC in this
study.

Methods:

We obtained the active components and targets of FZKA by TCMSP. The target genes
of NSCLC were searched from OMIM, GEO (GSE18842), and GeneCards database. Cytoscape
(3.7.2) software was used to construct a “drug-compound-cross-target interaction” interaction network,
and the STING database was used to analyze previous cross-target interactions. Meanwhile,
the results were visualized and processed by performing GO enrichment analysis and KEGG signaling
pathway enrichment analysis at the target site. The core targets were docked with active
components through AutoDockTools-1.5.6 software. Finally, we used cellular experiments to validate
the bioinformatics predictions.

Results:

There were 40 active and 465 potential genes from the TCMSP database. Key active
chemicals, namely Quercetin, Kaempferol, Luteolin, and Tanshinone IIA, and 176 targets were
deemed as targets of FZKA against NSCLC by PPI network analysis. GO and KEGG enrichment
analyses suggest that FZKA acts primarily through the PI3K-AKT and MAPK signaling pathways
in the treatment of NSCLC. Moreover, cellular assays showed that Quercetin, Kaempferol, Luteolin,
and Tanshinone IIA not only reduced the viability of A549 cells and promoted apoptosis but
also significantly decreased the p-AKT/AKT and p-ERK1/2/ERK1/2 ratios.

Conclusion:

Our data suggested that FZKA can be involved in the treatment of NSCLC through
multiple components, targets and pathways.
Spray-dried Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Enhancing Berberine Bioavailability
via Oral Administration
Authors: Nguyen Van Hong , Manh Le Khoa Nguyen , Nguyen Mai Chau Ngoc
Published: November 2023

Background:

Berberine (BBR), an Eastern traditional medicine, has expressed novel therapeutic activities,
especially for chronic diseases like diabetes, hyperlipemia, hypertension, and Alzheimer's disease.
However, the low oral bioavailability of BBR has limited the applications of these treatments. Hence, BBRloaded
solid lipid nanoparticles (BBR-SLNs) were prepared to improve BBR absorption into systemic circulations
via this route.

Methods:

BBR-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (BBR-SLNs) were prepared by ultrasonication and then transformed
into solid form via spray drying technique. The size morphology of BBR-SLNs was evaluated by dynamic
light scattering (DLS) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Crystallinity of BBR and interaction
of BBR with other excipients were checked by spectroscopic methods. Entrapment efficiency of BBR-SLNs
as well as BBR release in gastrointestinal conditions were also taken into account. Lastly, SLN's cytotoxicity
for loading BBR was determined with human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293).

Results:

Stearic acid (SA), glyceryl monostearate (GMS), and poloxamer 407 (P407) were selected for BBRSLNs
fabrication. BBR-SLNs had homogenous particle sizes of less than 200 nm, high encapsulation efficiency
of nearly 90% and loading capacity of above 12%. BBR-SLN powder could be redispersed without significant
changes in physicochemical properties and was stable for 30 days. Spray-dried BBR-SLNs showed a better
sustained in vitro release profile than BBR-SLNs suspension and BBR during the initial period, followed
by complete dissolution of BBR over 24 hours. Notably, cell viability on HEK293 even increased up to 150%
compared to the control sample at 100 μg/mL BBR-unloaded SLNs.

Conclusion:

Hence, SLNs may reveal a promising drug delivery system to broaden BBR treatment for oral administration.
Exploring the Targets and Molecular Mechanisms of Thalidomide in the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis: Network Pharmacology and Experimental
Validation
Authors: Li Jun , Tao Qin , Xie Yang , Wang Peng , Jin Ruiri , Huang Xia , Chen Youxiang , Zeng Chunyan
Published: November 2023

Background:

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, nonspecific, inflammatory disease of the intestine
with an unknown cause. Thalidomide (THA) has been shown to be an effective drug for the treatment of UC.
However, the molecular targets and mechanism of action of THA for the treatment of UC are not yet clear.

Objectives:

Combining network pharmacology with in vitro experiments, this study aimed to investigate the
potential targets and molecular mechanisms of THA for the treatment of UC.

Methods:

Firstly, relevant targets of THA against UC were obtained from public databases. Then, the top 10
hub targets and key molecular mechanisms of THA for UC were screened based on the network pharmacology
approach and bioinformatics method. Finally, an in vitro cellular inflammation model was constructed using
lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced intestinal epithelial cells (NCM460) to validate the top 10 hub targets and
key signaling pathways.

Results:

A total of 121 relevant targets of THA against UC were obtained, of which the top 10 hub targets
were SRC, LCK, MAPK1, HSP90AA1, EGFR, HRAS, JAK2, RAC1, STAT1, and MAP2K1. The PI3K-Akt
pathway was significantly associated with THA treatment of UC. In vitro experiments revealed that THA treatment
reversed the expression of HSP90AA1, EGFR, STAT1, and JAK2 differential genes. THA was able to
up- regulate the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory factor IL-10 and decrease the mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory
factors IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Furthermore, THA also exerted anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting
the activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway.

Conclusion:

THA may play a therapeutic role in UC by inhibiting the PI3K-Akt pathway. HSP90AA1,
EGFR, STAT1, and JAK2 may be the most relevant potential therapeutic targets for THA in the treatment of
UC.
Integrated Network Pharmacology and Cellular Assay to Explore the
Mechanisms of Selenized Tripterine Phytosomes (Se@Tri-PTs) Alleviating
Podocyte Injury in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Zhu Shiping , Liu Qiubo , Chang Yuling , Luo Chunhua , Zhang Xingwang , Sun Shengyun
Published: November 2023

Aim:

This work aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of Se@Tri-PTs in alleviating podocyte injury
via network pharmacology and in vitro cellular assay.

Background:

Selenized tripterine phytosomes (Se@Tri-PTs) have been confirmed to undertake synergistic
and sensitized effects on inflammation, which may be curatively promising for diabetic nephropathy (DN).
However, the mechanisms of Se@Tri-PTs in alleviating podocyte injury, a major contributor to DN, still remain
unclear.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to find out the underlying mechanisms of Se@Tri-PTs in alleviating
podocyte injury in diabetic nephropathy.

Methods:

The key components and targets of Tripterygium wilfordii (TW) significant for DN as well as the signaling
pathways involved have been identified. A high glucose-induced podocyte injury model was established
and verified by western blot. The protective concentration of Se@Tri-PTs was screened by CCK-8 assay.
Podocytes cultured with high glucose were treated with Se@Tri-PTs under protective levels. The expression
of key protective proteins, nephrin and desmin, in podocytes, was assayed by western blot. Further, autophagy-
related proteins and factors, like NLRP3, Beclin-1, LC3II/LC3, P62, and SIRT1, were analyzed,
which was followed by apoptosis detection.

Results:

Network pharmacology revealed that several monomeric components of TW, especially Tri, act on
DN through multiple targets and pathways, including the NLRP3-mediated inflammatory pathway. Se@Tri-
PTs improved the viability of podocytes and alleviated their injury induced by high glucose at 5 μg/L or
above. High-glucose induction promoted the expression of NLRP3 in podocytes, while a low concentration of
Se@Tri-PTs suppressed the expression. A long-term exposure of high glucose significantly inhibited the autophagic
activity of podocytes, as manifested by decreased Beclin-1 level, lower ratio of LC3 II/LC3 I, and
up- regulation of P62. This abnormality was efficiently reversed by Se@Tri-PTs. Importantly, the expression
of SIRT1 was up-regulated and podocyte apoptosis was reduced.

Conclusion:

Se@Tri-PTs can alleviate podocyte injury associated with DN by modulating NLRP3 expression
through the pathway of SIRT1-mediated autophagy.
Molecular Dynamics of a N-Cyclohexyl-1,2,4-Oxadiazole Derivative as a Reversible Cruzain Inhibitor in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Rocha Yasmim Mendes , de Moura Gabriel Acácio , Rodrigues João Pedro Viana , Pinheiro Cristian Vicson Gomes , de Oliveira Ronaldo Nascimento , Marinho Marcia Machado , Nicolete Roberto
Published: November 2023

Background:

Chagas disease kills around 10,000 people yearly, primarily in Latin
America, where it is prevalent. Current treatment has limited chronic effectiveness, is unsafe,
and has substantial side effects. As a result, the use of oxadiazole derivatives and similar heterocyclic
compounds as bioisosteres are well known, and they are prospective candidates in the hunt
for novel anti-Trypanosoma cruzi chemicals. Recent research has revealed that the cysteine protease
cruzain from T. cruzi is a validated target for disease treatment.

Objective:

Thus, using a molecular dynamics simulation, the current study attempted to determine
if a significant interaction occurred between the enzyme cruzain and its ligand.

Results:

Interactions with the catalytic site and other critical locations were observed. Also, the
RMSD values suggested that the molecule under research had stable interactions with its target.

Conclusion:

Finally, the findings indicate that the investigated molecule 2b can interfere enzymatic
activity of cruzain, indicating that it might be a promising antichagasic drug.
In Silico Pharmacokinetics, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics
Simulation Studies of Nucleoside Analogs for Drug Discovery- A Mini
Review
Authors: Kawsar Sarkar M.A. , Munia Nasrin S. , Saha Supriyo , Ozeki Yasuhiro
Published: November 2023

Nucleoside analogs have been widely used as antiviral, antitumor, and antiparasitic
agents due to their ability to inhibit nucleic acid synthesis. Adenosine, cytidine, guanosine, thymidine
and uridine analogs such as didanosine, vidarabine, remdesivir, gemcitabine, lamivudine, acyclovir,
abacavir, zidovusine, stavudine, and idoxuridine showed remarkable anticancer and antiviral
activities. In our previously published articles, our main intention was to develop newer generation
nucleoside analogs with acylation-induced modification of the hydroxyl group and showcase their
biological potencies. In the process of developing nucleoside analogs, in silico studies play an important
role and provide a scientific background for biological data. Molecular interactions between
drugs and receptors followed by assessment of their stability in physiological environments, help to
optimize the drug development process and minimize the burden of unwanted synthesis. Computational
approaches, such as DFT, FMO, MEP, ADMET prediction, PASS prediction, POM analysis,
molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation, are the most popular tools to culminate all
preclinical study data and deliver a molecule with maximum bioactivity and minimum toxicity. Although
clinical drug trials are crucial for providing dosage recommendations, they can only indirectly
provide mechanistic information through researchers for pathological, physiological, and pharmacological
determinants. As a result, in silico approaches are increasingly used in drug discovery
and development to provide mechanistic information of clinical value. This article portrays the current
status of these methods and highlights some remarkable contributions to the development of
nucleoside analogs with optimized bioactivity.
Thyroid Disorders and Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Studen Katica Bajuk , Gaberscek Simona , Zaletel Katja , Blinc Ales , Sabovic Miso , Schernthaner Gerit-Holger , Anagnostis Panagiotis , Antignani Pier Luigi , Jensterle Mojca , Mikhailidis Dimitri P , Poredos Pavel
Published: November 2023

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, both overt and subclinical, are associated with increased
risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The association between thyroid-stimulating
hormone levels and cardiovascular risk has been demonstrated in large epidemiological studies and
meta-analyses and is now considered a U-shaped curve. Several pathophysiological mechanisms
linking thyroid and cardiovascular disease are known; however, specific clinical complications of
peripheral arterial disease as endpoints of clinical trials have not been adequately investigated.
The potential mechanisms linking hypothyroidism and peripheral arterial disease are endothelial
dysfunction, blood pressure changes, dyslipidemia, and low-grade systemic inflammation. The
potential mechanisms linking hyperthyroidism and peripheral arterial disease are hyperdynamic circulation,
elevated systolic blood pressure, hypercoagulability, and possibly increased arterial inflammation.
A New Scoring System to Differentiate Bladder Cancer from Intravesical
Prostatic Protrusion in the Bladder Neck: BCa-IPP Score
Authors: Yildiz Ali Kaan , Oktem Cagri , Keseroglu Bugra Bilge , Kacan Turgay , Ozgur Berat Cem , Doluoglu Omer Gokhan , Karakan Tolga
Published: November 2023

Objective::

The aim of this study was to explore the criteria that can predict bladder cancer among the lesions that could not be differentiated from intravesical
prostate protrusion (IPP) and to create a scoring system using these criteria.

Methods::

A retrospective analysis was made of patients with an ultrasound report indicating lesions in the bladder neck, for which differentiation between
bladder cancer and IPP could not be determined. A total of 174 patients diagnosed with bladder cancer (n=102) or benign prostate lesion (n=72)
according to the biopsy results were enrolled in the study. Hemoglobin, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume (PV), bladder wall
thickness (BWT), lesion height (LH), and the ratio of lesion width to base (LW/B) were compared between the two groups.

Results::

ROC analysis revealed an AUC value >0.7 for all factors, and the best cut-off value was identified for each factor. In the multivariate analysis, by
determining a score for each factor according to the ORs, the BCa-IPP scoring system was developed to provide a total score in the range of
minimum 0 and maximum 15. In the ROC analysis, the AUC value was 0.954 (95% CI: 0.923–0.986) for the BCa-IPP score. The best cut-off
value was found to be 10, with sensitivity of 0.93 and specificity of 0.85.

Conclusion::

Using simple laboratory and ultrasound findings, the BCa-IPP scoring system was created, which was seen to have high predictive value and can
be easily applied in the clinic. The BCa-IPP scoring system is a non-invasive test that can be successfully applied for the differentiation of bladder
cancer from benign lesions
An Insight into Emerging Phytocompounds for Glioblastoma Multiforme Therapy
Authors: Prakash Vijeta , Gabrani Reema
Published: November 2023

:

Despite intense research in the field of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) therapeutics,
the resistance against approved therapy remains an issue of concern. The resistance against the
therapy is widely reported due to factors like clonal selection, involvement of multiple developmental
pathways, and majorly defective mismatch repair (MMR) protein and functional O6-
methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) repair enzyme. Phytotherapy is one of the most
effective alternatives to overcome resistance. It involves plant-based compounds, divided into
several classes: alkaloids; phenols; terpenes; organosulfur compounds. The phytocompounds
comprised in these classes are extracted or processed from certain plant sources. They can target
various proteins of molecular pathways associated with the progression and survival of GBM.
Phytocompounds have also shown promise as immunomodulatory agents and are being explored
for immune checkpoint inhibition. Therefore, research and innovations are required to understand
the mechanism of action of such phytocompounds against GBM to develop efficacious
treatments for the same. This review gives insight into the potential of phytochemical-based
therapeutic options for GBM treatment.
Fuzzy nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode controller for a robotic system
Authors: Alnufaie Lafi
Published: November 2023

This study introduces an innovative control strategy utilizing a nonsingular fast sliding mode technique tailored for robotic systems. The core of this approach lies in the development of a type-2 fuzzy logic-based nominal model, meticulously designed to accurately approximate the dynamics of the real system while adeptly handling the variability in system parameters. This method marks a departure from conventional approaches by inferring the switch signal for type-2 adaptive fuzzy systems, a critical step in achieving superior tracking performance without the necessity for extensive knowledge of the system's upper bounds in uncertainties and external disturbances. The efficacy of the proposed control law is rigorously validated through a series of simulations, encompassing a variety of initial conditions and reference signals, thereby demonstrating its robust performance capabilities.
Effectiveness of Different Telerehabilitation Strategies on Pain and Physical Function in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xiang Wu , Wang Jun-Yu , Ji Bing-jin , Li Li-Jun , Xiang Han
Published: November 2023

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative bone and joint disease. It can lead to major pressure to the quality of life and mental health of patients, and also brings a serious economic burden to society. However, it is difficult for patients with knee OA to access rehabilitation when discharging from the hospital. Internet-based rehabilitation is one of the promising telemedicine strategies for the improvement of knee OA, but the effect of different telerehabilitation strategies on knee OA is not clear.

Objective

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to identify telerehabilitation strategies attributing to the improvement of pain and physical function outcomes in patients with knee OA.

Methods

We reviewed and analyzed telerehabilitation strategies from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing telerehabilitation with conventional treatment or usual care. For each strategy, we examined whether RCTs that applied the telerehabilitation strategy resulted in a significant improvement in pain or physical function compared with conventional treatment or usual care.

Results

We included 6 RCTs (n=734) incorporating 8 different telerehabilitation strategies. The duration of the interventions ranged from 1 to 48 weeks, and sample sizes ranged from 20 to 350 patients. The results showed that RCTs that provided telerehabilitation were found to be more effective than conventional treatments for improving pain (P=.003; standardized mean difference [SMD] –0.21, 95% CI –0.35 to –0.07), but not physical function (P=.24; SMD –0.09, 95% CI –0.25 to 0.06). Furthermore, this systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that there is no significant correlation between different telerehabilitation strategies and the pain and physical function of patients with knee OA.

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta-analysis showed that telerehabilitation programs could relieve pain but not improve physical function for patients with knee OA. These results indicated that telerehabilitation is beneficial for the implementation of home rehabilitation exercises for patients with knee OA, thereby reducing the economic burden of health. However, there were limitations in terms of the number of search results and the number of studies that were eligible for this review and meta-analysis. Therefore, the results need to be interpreted with caution, and more high-quality studies with large samples are needed to focus on the long-term outcomes of telerehabilitation for patients with knee OA to address this limitation.
Use of Social Media for Health Advocacy for Digital Communities: Descriptive Study
Authors: Ezeilo Chidimma Ogechukwu , Leon Nicholas , Jajodia Anushka , Han Hae-Ra
Published: November 2023

Background

There has been a growth surge in the use of social media among individuals today. The widespread adoption of these platforms, coupled with their engaging features, presents a unique opportunity for the dissemination of health advocacy information. Social media is known as a powerful tool used to share health policy and advocacy efforts and disseminate health information to digital community members and networks. Yet, there is still a gap in the full exploitation of this powerful instrument, among health care professionals, for health advocacy campaigns.

Objective

This paper aims to describe the process of mobilizing social media platforms such as Twitter (rebranded to X Corp in 2023) for health advocacy of the digital community. Additionally, it aims to share the lessons and insights gained during this digital health advocacy engagement process.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive review of Twitter analytical data to examine the impact of our social media posts. We then consolidated these analytic reports with our meeting logs to describe our systematic, iterative, and collaborative design process to implement social media efforts and generate key lessons learned.

Results

Our review of monthly Twitter analytical reports and regular team meeting logs revealed several themes for successful and less successful practices in relation to our social media–based health advocacy efforts. The successful practices noted by the team included using personable, picture-based tweets; using a series of posts on a particular topic rather than an isolated post; leveraging team members’ and partners’ collaborations in shared posts; incorporating hashtags in tweets; using a balanced mix of texts and graphics in posts; using inclusive (nondestigmatizing) languages in tweeted posts; and use of polls to share tweets. Among the many lessons learned, we also experienced limitations including a lack of comprehensive statistics on Twitter usage for health care–related purposes such as health advocacy and limits in collating the estimates of the actual impact made on the intended digital community members by our posts.

Conclusions

Twitter has been successfully used in promoting health advocacy content, and the social media team aims to explore other social media platforms that have a wider reach than Twitter. We will continue making necessary adjustments in strategies, techniques, and styles to engage the audience as we expand onto new platforms like Instagram and TikTok for health advocacy promotions.
Impact of Incentives on Physician Participation in Research Surveys: Randomized Experiment (Preprint)
Authors: Hawa Saadiya , Bane Shalmali , Kinsler Kayla , Rector Amadeia , Chaichian Yashaar , Falasinnu Titilola , Simard Julia F
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Web-based surveys can be effective data collection instruments; however, participation is notoriously low, particularly among professionals such as physicians. Few studies have explored the impact of varying amounts of monetary incentives on survey completion.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to conduct a randomized study to assess how different incentive amounts influenced survey participation among neurologists in the United States.

METHODS

We distributed a web-based survey using standardized email text to 21,753 individuals randomly divided into 5 equal groups (≈4351 per group). In phase 1, each group was assigned to receive either nothing or a gift card for US $10, $20, $50, or $75, which was noted in the email subject and text. After 4 reminders, phase 2 began and each remaining individual was offered a US $75 gift card to complete the survey. We calculated and compared the proportions who completed the survey by phase 1 arm, both before and after the incentive change, using a chi-square test. As a secondary outcome, we also looked at survey participation as opposed to completion.

RESULTS

For the 20,820 emails delivered, 879 (4.2%) recipients completed the survey; of the 879 recipients, 622 (70.8%) were neurologists. Among the neurologists, most were male (412/622, 66.2%), White (430/622, 69.1%), non-Hispanic (592/622, 95.2%), graduates of American medical schools (465/622, 74.8%), and board certified (598/622, 96.1%). A total of 39.7% (247/622) completed their neurology residency more than 20 years ago, and 62.4% (388/622) practiced in an urban setting. For phase 1, the proportions of respondents completing the survey increased as the incentive amount increased (46/4185, 1.1%; 76/4165, 1.8%; 86/4160, 2.1%; 104/4162, 2.5%; and 119/4148, 2.9%, for US $0, $10, $20, $50, and $75, respectively; P<.001). In phase 2, the survey completion rate for the former US $0 arm increased to 3% (116/3928). Those originally offered US $10, $20, $50, and $75 who had not yet participated were less likely to participate compared with the former US $0 arm (116/3928, 3%; 90/3936, 2.3%; 80/3902, 2.1%; 88/3845, 2.3%; and 74/3878, 1.9%, for US $0, $10, $20, $50, and $75, respectively; P=.03). For our secondary outcome of survey participation, a trend similar to that of survey completion was observed in phase 1 (55/4185, 1.3%; 85/4165, 2%; 96/4160, 2.3%; 118/4162, 2.8%; and 135/4148, 3.3%, for US $0, $10, $20, $50, and $75, respectively; P<.001) and phase 2 (116/3928, 3%; 90/3936, 2.3%; 80/3902, 2.1%; 88/3845, 2.3%; and 86/3845, 2.2%, for US $0, $10, $20, $50, and $75, respectively; P=.10).

CONCLUSIONS

As expected, monetary incentives can boost physician survey participation and completion, with a positive correlation between the amount offered and participation.
The Impact of Video-Based Microinterventions on Attitudes Toward Mental Health and Help Seeking in Youth: Web-Based Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Lemmer Diana , Moessner Markus , Arnaud Nicolas , Baumeister Harald , Mutter Agnes , Klemm Sarah-Lena , König Elisa , Plener Paul , Rummel-Kluge Christine , Thomasius Rainer , Kaess Michael , Bauer Stephanie
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Mental health (MH) problems in youth are prevalent, burdening, and frequently persistent. Despite the existence of effective treatment, the uptake of professional help is low, particularly due to attitudinal barriers.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effectiveness and acceptability of 2 video-based microinterventions aimed at reducing barriers to MH treatment and increasing the likelihood of seeking professional help in young people.

METHODS

This study was entirely web based and open access. The interventions addressed 5 MH problems: generalized anxiety disorder, depression, bulimia, nonsuicidal self-injury, and problematic alcohol use. Intervention 1 aimed to destigmatize and improve MH literacy, whereas intervention 2 aimed to induce positive outcome expectancies regarding professional help seeking. Of the 2435 participants who commenced the study, a final sample of 1394 (57.25%) participants aged 14 to 29 years with complete data and sufficient durations of stay on the video pages were randomized in a fully automated manner to 1 of the 5 MH problems and 1 of 3 conditions (control, intervention 1, and intervention 2) in a permuted block design. After the presentation of a video vignette, no further videos were shown to the control group, whereas a second, short intervention video was presented to the intervention 1 and 2 groups. Intervention effects on self-reported potential professional help seeking (primary outcome), stigma, and attitudes toward help seeking were examined using analyses of covariance across and within the 5 MH problems. Furthermore, we assessed video acceptability.

RESULTS

No significant group effects on potential professional help seeking were found in the total sample (F2,1385=0.99; P=.37). However, the groups differed significantly with regard to stigma outcomes and the likelihood of seeking informal help (F2,1385=3.75; P=.02). Furthermore, separate analyses indicated substantial differences in intervention effects among the 5 MH problems.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions to promote help seeking for MH problems may require disorder-specific approaches. The study results can inform future research and public health campaigns addressing adolescents and young adults.

CLINICALTRIAL

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00023110; https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00023110