bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Transition Metal-Free Halogenation of C(sp2)-H Bonds
Authors: Luo Tian , Tian Shanghui , Wan Jie-Ping , Liu Yunyun
Published: January 2021

C-X (X = halogen) bonds are indispensable functional groups in organic synthesis
by mediating a massive number of important organic reactions. While a variety of different
catalytic strategies are available for generating C-X bonds, those methods enabling the C-X
bond formation under transition metal-free conditions via the C-H bond functionalization are
particularly interesting because of the inherent atom economy and environmental friendliness
associated with such methods. Herein, the advancements in the transition metal-free halogenation
of C(sp2)-H bond are reviewed.
Targeting Macrophages in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Hu Dan , Wang Zengyan , Wang Yuzhong , Liang Caihong
Published: January 2021

Atherosclerosis (AS) is an important pathological basis for the occurrence of Coronary Atherosclerotic
Disease (CAD), stroke and other adverse cardiovascular events. AS is an inflammatory
disease, and macrophages are the main inflammatory cells in AS lesions, playing a leading role in the
formation of atherosclerotic plaques and the development and regression of AS. Various proinflammatory
and anti-inflammatory factors act on macrophages to regulate AS. Pro-inflammatory factors
recruit monocytes to accumulate in the inflammatory site and promote the transformation of monocytes
to macrophages. A large number of aggregated macrophages secrete various inflammatory mediators
to promote AS. Pro-inflammatory factors can induce the polarization of M1-type macrophages
to start and maintain inflammation, promote the accumulation of lipids in macrophages, and accelerate
the formation of foam cells. Anti-inflammatory factors can not only induce M2-type macrophages polarization,
promote tissue remodeling and repair, and reduce the occurrence of AS, but also promote
the metabolism of fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation of macrophages, regulate lipid
metabolism, stabilize plaques, and induce the transformation of helper T cells of type 1/2 (Th1/Th2) to
Th2 cells, thus reducing inflammation. This review summarizes the effect and underlying regulatory
mechanism of macrophages in the development of AS, which can provide new ideas for the diagnosis
and treatment of AS targeting macrophages.
ATP Synthase, an Emerging Target in TB Drug Discovery: Review of SAR and Clinical Pharmacology of Diarylquinoline Inhibitors
Authors: Dhulap Abhijeet , Banerjee Paromita
Published: January 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is one of the leading
causes of mortality worldwide, with an estimated 1.5 million deaths annually. The majority of infection
cases are reported from the Southeast Asian region, including India. After the discovery of Streptomycin
in 1943 and its anti-tubercular activity in 1945, drug discovery efforts identified Isoniazid,
Ethambutol, and Rifampin as TB-actives. However, over the years, these drugs have been rendered
ineffective due to genetic mutations in mycobacterial strains. This has shifted drug discovery efforts
towards identifying new targets and drugs for drug-resistant forms of bacteria. ATP synthase was
identified as one of the key targets of MDR-TB. This review provides key insights into the ATP synthase
target, structure activity relationship studies (SAR) of diarylquinoline class of inhibitors and
their clinical relevance for treating MDR-TB.
Synthesis of Chrysin, Quercetin and Naringin Nitroderivatives: Antiproliferative, Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Tavera-Hernández Rosario , Jiménez-Estrada Manuel , Alvarado-Sansininea Jesús J. , Nieto-Camacho Antonio , López-Muñoz Hugo , Sánchez-Sánchez Luis , Escobar María L.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Flavonoids are an important group of natural products because they possess
various biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer. The modification
of their structure could improve their biological activities. The nitro group is included in diverse
pharmaceuticals with various biological activities, such as anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory agents.

Objective:

The study aimed to introduce a nitro group into the structure of flavonoids in order to
observe how their anti-proliferative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities change.

Methods:

: In this investigation, we established diverse conditions of aromatic nitration of chrysin (1),
quercetin (2), and naringin (3) flavonoids using bismuth (III) nitrate, acetic acid or silica gel, and
NOx gases. The anti-proliferative activity in CaSki, MDA, and SK-LU-1 cancer cell lines and the
anti-inflammatory activity and antioxidant activity of flavonoids and nitro derivatives were evaluated
as well.

Results:

As a result, mild nitration conditions were established, and 8-nitrochrysin, 5’nitroquercetin,
and 3’nitronaringin were obtained. The number and hydroxyl group position in the flavonoid are
important to carry out the nitration reaction. Although chrysin showed higher anti-proliferative activity
than quercetin and naringin, the introduction of the nitro group at C-8 did not improve its antiproliferative,
antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. On the other hand, the introduction of the
nitro group at C-5̍ in quercetin structure was important to improve its antioxidant and antiproliferative
activities on cancer cell lines. The introduction of the nitro group at C-3’ in naringin
improved its anti-inflammatory activity, but not its antioxidant and anti-proliferative activities. Chrysin,
8-nitrochrysin, quercetin, and 5’-nitroquercetin did not show necrotic activity.

Conclusion:

The introduction of a nitro group into flavonoids structure improved their antiproliferative,
antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. These results promote future investigations
of structural modification on 2-phenylbenzopyran skeleton to optimize their biological activity.
A Short Review on the Synthesis of 1,2,4-Triazine Derivatives as Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Hashem Heba E.
Published: January 2021

:

Triazines and their oxo derivatives are a representative class of heterocyclic compounds with a great interest in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry as they have been associated with a broad range of pharmacological activities. 1,2,4-Triazines and their oxo derivatives are exhibiting a broad range of biological activities including antimicrobial, antifungal, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, besides their importance in the dyes and pesticides field. This review presents the different methods of the synthesis of triazine/one derivatives. Also, this literature surveys the different effects of these compounds in pharmaceuticals.
Sonoelastography for Pelvic Metastatic Malignant Pheochromocytoma: A Case Report
Authors: Song Minkyo , Park Sung Bin , Yoon Jin Woo , Park Hyun Jeong , Lee Eun Sun
Published: January 2021

Introduction:

Pheochromocytoma are tumors arising from the chromaffin tissue located
in the adrenal medulla, associated with typical symptoms and signs.

Case Presentation:

Occasionally, metastasis, defined as the presence of tumor cells at sites other
than the original site, secondary to pheochromocytoma have been reported. Pelvic metastatic malignant
pheochromocytoma has rarely been reported in English literature.

Conclusion:

Here, we have reported a very rare case of pelvic metastatic malignant pheochromocytoma,
with a particular focus on sonoelastographic features.
COVID-19 and Clinical Trials: Current Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Singh Vinay , Garg Sandeep , Klimek Monika , Sinha Rajeev Ranjan , Dhanwal Dinesh
Published: January 2021

Background:

The outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has posed a major threat to people's lives across the globe. It has drastically changed the way we perceive this world. A paradigm shift was observed globally as the world’s emphasis shifted to testing, diagnosis, treatment, and developing a coronavirus cure. Clinical trials were also not untouched by this. The coronavirus pandemic has abhorrently affected the day-to-day clinical trial activities at sites.

Methods:

The status of various ongoing clinical trials was assessed through a literature search, which also includes clinical trial portals. Our evaluations were based on these observations.

Results:

Multiple challenges were present in clinical trials as recruitment, retention, the safety of trial subjects, protocol compliance, and this made the world to re-think to incorporate newer strategies and to cope with this untoward situation.

Conclusion:

Digitalization of clinical trials as virtual management of adverse events, remote monitoring visits, and web-based consulting with trial subjects are potential directions that can be applied to better manage clinical trials worldwide.
Geopolymer leaching in water and acetic acid
Authors: Ukrainczyk Neven , Vogt Oliver
Published: January 2021

Elemental leaching of metakaolin based geopolymers was investigated by immersing hardened paste specimens in a solution. For this, pure water and 0.1 molar acetic acid solutions were replenished ten times distributed over 56 days in total. Dissolution and diffusion of the elements through and from the geopolymer paste into the surrounding solutions was investigated on cross-sections of specimens by SEM-EDS microscopy, indentation, X-ray powder diffraction analysis and measuring the eluted elements by ICP-MS when replenishing the solution over time. The presented new methodological approach thus combines the dissolution rate kinetics obtained via wet chemistry (ICP) with the complementary solid state characterisation methods to gain new insights into the complex geopolymer dissolution mechanisms.

Results indicated a relatively small leachability of geopolymers, limited only to the surface layer which is directly exposed to the aggressive solution, while the more inner parts of the geopolymer framework remain intact. Elemental maps revealed dissolution of aluminates that occurred across the outermost surface parts of the sections, while potassium leached out gradually but reached deeper inner parts. However, there was still a high portion of potassium being left bonded inside the geopolymer, even for the harsh acidic conditions, limited by the diffusion-reaction mechanism which took place within the geopolymer. The obtained experimental results represent a first approach towards feeding reactive transport numerical modeling approaches still to be developed for simulating leaching and degradation of geopolymer materials when exposed to water or acidic solutions.
Determination of dynamic properties of the caterpillar drive of hydraulic reclamation machines and the method of articulated attachment of the working body of the trenchless pipelayer
Authors: Gasanov T. G. , Batmanov E. Z. , Guseynov M. R. , Nazhmudinova M. N.
Published: January 2021

Objective. The objective of the study is to determine the requirements for various devices of hydraulic reclamation machines, which are widely used in the construction of canals and drains, to maintain a given slope, as well as the calculation of the executive mechanism that serves to eliminate the oscillating movement of the working body relative to the line of the specified slope.

Methods. A mathematical description of the vibrations of the working body for caterpillar hydraulic reclamation machines with mounted working bodies is given.

Results. The article presents the results of research to identify the main factors affecting the oscillations of the working body of caterpillar reclamation machines. As a result of theoretical and experimental studies, it was found that when a caterpillar machine with a rigid undercarriage crosses single and multiple irregularities, the movement of the cutting edge of the rigidly mounted working body is graphically depicted by sinusoidal curves. The obtained dependencies allow conducting calculations of the automatic system of maintaining the specified slope and establish the area of stable modes of system operation. A geometric method for optimizing the hinge linkage of the working body of trenchless pipelayer is presented.

Conclusion. The proposed methods of improving the performance of caterpillar hydraulic reclamation machines with mounted working bodies when moving on uneven ground surfaces can be used to create a wide class of mounted earthmoving machines, both with passive and active working bodies.
Assessment of Patients’ Ability to Review Electronic Health Record Information to Identify Potential Errors: Cross-sectional Web-Based Survey
Authors: Freise Lisa , Neves Ana Luisa , Flott Kelsey , Harrison Paul , Kelly John , Darzi Ara , Mayer Erik K
Published: January 2021

Background

Sharing personal health information positively impacts quality of care across several domains, and particularly, safety and patient-centeredness. Patients may identify and flag up inconsistencies in their electronic health records (EHRs), leading to improved information quality and patient safety. However, in order to identify potential errors, patients need to be able to understand the information contained in their EHRs.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess patients’ perceptions of their ability to understand the information contained in their EHRs and to analyze the main barriers to their understanding. Additionally, the main types of patient-reported errors were characterized.

Methods

A cross-sectional web-based survey was undertaken between March 2017 and September 2017. A total of 682 registered users of the Care Information Exchange, a patient portal, with at least one access during the time of the study were invited to complete the survey containing both structured (multiple choice) and unstructured (free text) questions. The survey contained questions on patients’ perceived ability to understand their EHR information and therefore, to identify errors. Free-text questions allowed respondents to expand on the reasoning for their structured responses and provide more detail about their perceptions of EHRs and identifying errors within them. Qualitative data were systematically reviewed by 2 independent researchers using the framework analysis method in order to identify emerging themes.

Results

A total of 210 responses were obtained. The majority of the responses (123/210, 58.6%) reported understanding of the information. The main barriers identified were information-related (medical terminology and knowledge and interpretation of test results) and technology-related (user-friendliness of the portal, information display). Inconsistencies relating to incomplete and incorrect information were reported in 12.4% (26/210) of the responses.

Conclusions

While the majority of the responses affirmed the understanding of the information contained within the EHRs, both technology and information-based barriers persist. There is a potential to improve the system design to better support opportunities for patients to identify errors. This is with the aim of improving the accuracy, quality, and timeliness of the information held in the EHRs and a mechanism to further engage patients in their health care.
The Use of Digital Platforms for Adults’ and Adolescents’ Physical Activity During the COVID-19 Pandemic (Our Life at Home): Survey Study
Authors: Parker Kate , Uddin Riaz , Ridgers Nicola D , Brown Helen , Veitch Jenny , Salmon Jo , Timperio Anna , Sahlqvist Shannon , Cassar Samuel , Toffoletti Kim , Maddison Ralph , Arundell Lauren
Published: January 2021

Background

Government responses to managing the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted the way individuals were able to engage in physical activity. Digital platforms are a promising way to support physical activity levels and may have provided an alternative for people to maintain their activity while at home.

Objective

This study aimed to examine associations between the use of digital platforms and adherence to the physical activity guidelines among Australian adults and adolescents during the COVID-19 stay-at-home restrictions in April and May 2020.

Methods

A national online survey was distributed in May 2020. Participants included 1188 adults (mean age 37.4 years, SD 15.1; 980/1188, 82.5% female) and 963 adolescents (mean age 16.2 years, SD 1.2; 685/963, 71.1% female). Participants reported demographic characteristics, use of digital platforms for physical activity over the previous month, and adherence to moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) and muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE) guidelines. Multilevel logistic regression models examined differences in guideline adherence between those who used digital platforms (ie, users) to support their physical activity compared to those who did not (ie, nonusers).

Results

Digital platforms include streaming services for exercise (eg, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook); subscriber fitness programs, via an app or online (eg, Centr and MyFitnessPal); facilitated online live or recorded classes, via platforms such as Zoom (eg, dance, sport training, and fitness class); sport- or activity-specific apps designed by sporting organizations for participants to keep up their skills (eg, TeamBuildr); active electronic games (eg, Xbox Kinect); and/or online or digital training or racing platforms (eg, Zwift, FullGaz, and Rouvy). Overall, 39.5% (469/1188) of adults and 26.5% (255/963) of adolescents reported using digital platforms for physical activity. Among adults, MVPA (odds ratio [OR] 2.0, 95% CI 1.5-2.7), MSE (OR 3.3, 95% CI 2.5-4.5), and combined (OR 2.7, 95% CI 2.0-3.8) guideline adherence were higher among digital platform users relative to nonusers. Adolescents’ MVPA (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.3-4.3), MSE (OR 3.1, 95% CI 2.1-4.4), and combined (OR 4.3, 95% CI 2.1-9.0) guideline adherence were also higher among users of digital platforms relative to nonusers.

Conclusions

Digital platform users were more likely than nonusers to meet MVPA and MSE guidelines during the COVID-19 stay-at-home restrictions in April and May 2020. Digital platforms may play a critical role in helping to support physical activity engagement when access to facilities or opportunities for physical activity outside the home are restricted.
Context and Barriers to the Prescription of Nonoccupational Postexposure Prophylaxis Among HIV Medical Care Providers: National Internet-Based Observational Study in China
Authors: Ding Haibo , Ye Zehao , Tang Weiming , Huang Xiaojie , Wang Hui , Cui Sitong , Jiang Yongjun , Geng Wenqing , Xu Junjie , Shang Hong
Published: January 2021

Background

Nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) is an effective HIV biomedical prevention strategy. The research and use of nPEP are mainly concentrated in the developed world, while little is known about the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nPEP among HIV medical care providers in developing countries.

Objective

We aimed to assess the nPEP knowledge and prescribing practice among HIV medical care providers in mainland China.

Methods

HIV medical care providers were recruited in China during May and June 2019 through an online survey regarding nPEP-related knowledge, attitudes, and clinical prescription experiences. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with prescribing nPEP among HIV medical care providers.

Results

A total of 777 eligible participants participated in this study from 133 cities in 31 provinces in China. Of the participants, 60.2% (468/777) were unfamiliar with nPEP and only 53.3% (414/777) of participants ever prescribed nPEP. HIV care providers who worked in a specialized infectious disease hospital (vs general hospital, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.49; 95% CI 1.85-3.37), had practiced for 6-10 years (vs 5 or fewer years, aOR 3.28; 95% CI 2.23-4.80), had practiced for 11 years or more (vs 5 or fewer years, aOR 3.75; 95% CI 2.59-5.45), and had previously prescribed occupational PEP (oPEP, aOR 4.90; 95% CI 3.29-7.29) had a significantly positive association with prescribing nPEP. However, unfamiliarity with nPEP (aOR 0.08; 95% CI 0.05-0.11), believing nPEP may promote HIV high-risk behavior (aOR 0.53; 95% CI 0.36-0.77) or result in HIV drug resistance (aOR 0.53; 95% CI 0.36-0.77) among key populations, and self-reported having no written oPEP guideline in place (aOR 0.53; 95% CI 0.35-0.79) were negatively associated with nPEP prescription behavior.

Conclusions

HIV medical care providers have insufficient nPEP knowledge and an inadequate proportion of prescribing, which may impede the scale-up of nPEP services to curb HIV acquisition. The implementation of tailored nPEP training or retraining to HIV medical care providers would improve this situation.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Social Distancing During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Garnier Romain , Benetka Jan R , Kraemer John , Bansal Shweta
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Eliminating disparities in the burden of COVID-19 requires equitable access to control measures across socio-economic groups. Limited research on socio-economic differences in mobility hampers our ability to understand whether inequalities in social distancing are occurring during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to assess how mobility patterns have varied across the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify associations with socioeconomic factors of populations.

METHODS

We used anonymized mobility data from tens of millions of devices to measure the speed and depth of social distancing at the county level in the United States between February and May 2020, the period during which social distancing was widespread in this country. Using linear mixed models, we assessed the associations between social distancing and socioeconomic variables, including the proportion of people in the population below the poverty level, the proportion of Black people, the proportion of essential workers, and the population density.

RESULTS

We found that the speed, depth, and duration of social distancing in the United States are heterogeneous. We particularly show that social distancing is slower and less intense in counties with higher proportions of people below the poverty level and essential workers; in contrast, we show that social distancing is intensely adopted in counties with higher population densities and larger Black populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Socioeconomic inequalities appear to be associated with the levels of adoption of social distancing, potentially resulting in wide-ranging differences in the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in communities across the United States. These inequalities are likely to amplify existing health disparities and must be addressed to ensure the success of ongoing pandemic mitigation efforts.
Encouraging Hearing Loss Prevention in Music Listeners Using Personalized Technology: Questionnaire Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhu Dylan Tianyu
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) affects millions of people despite being almost completely preventable. For recreational music listening through personal listening equipment (such as earbuds), it seems that listeners do not yet have a way to accurately assess their risk of developing hearing loss and prevent it accordingly.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to analyze the perceived utility of a hypothetical device that encourages NIHL prevention based on listeners’ exposure to noise and to determine the most effective methods of such encouragement. Here, we describe 3 different potential NIHL risk notification method types, as follows: auditory, external visual, and visual.

METHODS

An open, web-based survey was created on Google Forms, and the link was posted to Amazon’s Mechanical Turk as well as music-related Reddit communities. The survey was designed to gauge each respondent’s self-assessed NIHL awareness, willingness to lower their audio if reminded, and NIHL risk notification type preference. The likelihood of a specific notification type to encourage NIHL prevention among its users was based on the average of each user’s responses to 2 survey questions. Data collection started on July 13, 2020, and ended on July 17, 2020.

RESULTS

Of the 116 respondents, 92 (79.3%) reported having prior awareness about NIHL; however, 60 (51.7%) described doing nothing to prevent it despite 96 (82.8%) feeling a moderate, high, or extreme risk of developing NIHL. Of those who already prevented NIHL, 96% (53.5/56) described using estimates to guide their prevention instead of using data. A Kruskal-Wallis test corrected for ties showed that despite the visual NIHL risk notification type being selected by the highest number of participants (84/116, 72.4%), the auditory type had a significantly higher (H1=6.848; P=.03) average percentage likelihood of encouraging NIHL prevention (62%, SD 24%) among the 40 respondents who chose it, with a median likelihood of 56% (95% CI 50%-75%). The visual type’s average likelihood was 50% (SD 28.1%), with a median of 50% (95% CI 37.5%-56.3%). Regardless of the NIHL risk notification type, 69% (80/116) of respondents were not opposed to using NIHL risk notifications and lowering their audio volume accordingly.

CONCLUSIONS

The hypothetical device detailed here was thought to be useful because most respondents (82.8%, 96/116) felt an extreme to moderate risk of developing NIHL and such a device could provide accurate data to those who currently use estimates to prevent NIHL, and most respondents were willing to act on NIHL risk notifications. The most effective NIHL risk notification type seemed to be the auditory type, but many aspects of this study need further research to determine which implementation method should reach the public.
Perceived Impact of Outdoor Swimming on Health: Web-Based Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Massey Heather , Gorczynski Paul , Harper C Mark , Sansom Lisa , McEwan Kieren , Yankouskaya Alla , Denton Hannah
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Outdoor swimming in lakes, lidos (outdoor pools), rivers, and the sea has grown in popularity in many countries, including the United Kingdom. Many anecdotal accounts indicate improvements in medical conditions, which are considered a consequence of outdoor swimming.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to better understand outdoor swimmers’ perceptions of their health and the extent to which participation impacted their existing self-reported symptoms.

METHODS

A survey was conducted to investigate outdoor swimming behaviors and reports of any diagnosed medical conditions. Medical conditions were coded into categories, and descriptive statistics were generated regarding the outdoor swimmers’ behaviors and the effect that outdoor swimming had on their medical symptoms if any. The medical categories were clustered into five larger categories based on their prevalence in the current sample: mental health; musculoskeletal and injury; neurological; cardiovascular and blood disease; and other, which comprises inflammatory, immune, endocrine, and respiratory conditions.

RESULTS

In total, 722 outdoor swimmers responded, of whom 498 (68.9%) were female. The probability of outdoor swimming having some positive impact on health across all medical categories was 3.57 times higher compared with no impact (B=1.28, 95% CI 0.63-1.91; P<.001), 44.32 times higher for the mental health category (B=3.79, 95% CI 2.28-5.30; P<.001), 5.25 times higher for musculoskeletal and injury category (B=1.66, 95% CI 0.52-2.79; P=.004), and 4.02 times higher for the other category (B=1.39, 95% CI 0.27-2.51; P=.02). Overall, outdoor swimming was associated with perceived reductions in symptoms of poor mental health (χ22=25.1; P<.001), musculoskeletal and injury (χ22=8.2; P=.04), cardiovascular and blood (χ22=14.7; P=.006), and other conditions (χ22=18.2; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Physical activity in the form of outdoor swimming is perceived to have positive impacts on health and is associated with perceived symptom reductions in mental health, musculoskeletal and injury, and cardiovascular and blood conditions. This study cannot provide causal relationships or provide mechanistic insights. However, it does provide a starting point for more targeted prospective intervention research into individual conditions or categories of conditions to establish the impact in those who choose to start outdoor swimming.
Stigma as a Barrier to Participant Recruitment of Minority Populations in Diabetes Research: Development of a Community-Centered Recruitment Approach (Preprint)
Authors: Mitchell Suzanne , Bragg Alexa , Moldovan Ioana , Woods Shakiyla , Melo Katherine , Martin-Howard Jessica , Gardiner Paula
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

The development of evidence-based care geared towards Black and Latina women living with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes is contingent upon their active recruitment into clinical interventions. Well-documented impediments to recruitment include a historical mistrust of the research community and socioeconomic factors that limit awareness and access to research studies. Although sociocultural and socioeconomic factors deter minorities from participating in clinical research, it is equally important to consider the role of stigma in chronic disease intervention studies.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to share our discovery of diabetes-related stigma as an underrecognized impediment to recruitment for the Women in Control 2.0 virtual diabetes self-management education study.

METHODS

Our initial recruitment plan used traditional strategies to recruit minority women with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, which included letters and phone calls to targeted patients, referrals from clinicians, and posted flyers. After engaging a patient advisory group and consulting with experts in community advocacy, diabetes-related stigma emerged as a prominent barrier to recruitment. The study team reviewed and revised recruitment scripts and outreach material in order to better align with the lived experience and needs of potential enrollees.

RESULTS

Using a more nuanced, community-centered recruitment approach, we achieved our target recruitment goal, enrolling 309 participants into the study, exceeding our target of 212.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a need for updated recruitment methods that can increase research participation of patients who experience internalized diabetes stigma. To address disparities in minority health, further research is needed to better understand diabetes-related stigma and devise strategies to avert or address it.
Correction: Factors Influencing Patients’ Initial Decisions Regarding Telepsychiatry Participation During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Telephone-Based Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Severe Jennifer , Tang Ruiqi , Horbatch Faith , Onishchenko Regina , Naini Vidisha , Blazek Mary Carol
Published: January 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

Telepsychiatry enables patients to establish or maintain psychiatric care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about the factors influencing patients’ initial decisions to participate in telepsychiatry in the midst of a public health crisis. This paper seeks to examine factors influencing patients’ initial decisions to accept or decline telepsychiatry immediately after the stay-at-home order in Michigan, their initial choice of virtual care modality (video or telephone), and their anticipated participation in telepsychiatry once clinics reopen for in-person visits. Between June and August 2020, we conducted a telephone-based survey using a questionnaire comprising 14 quantitative and two qualitative items as part of a quality improvement initiative. We targeted patients who had an in-person appointment date that fell in the first few weeks following the Michigan governor’s stay-at-home order, necessitating conversion to virtual visits or deferment of in-person care. We used descriptive statistics to report individual survey responses and assess the association between chosen visit type and patient characteristics and future participation in telepsychiatry using multivariable logistic regression. A total of 244 patients whose original in-person appointments were scheduled within the first 3 weeks of the stay-at-home order in Michigan completed the telephone survey. The majority of the 244 respondents (n=202, 82.8%) initially chose to receive psychiatric care through video visits, while 13.5% (n=33) chose telephone visits and 1.2% (n=3) decided to postpone care until in-person visit availability. Patient age correlated with chosen visit type (P<.001; 95% CI 0.02-0.06). Patients aged ≥44 years were more likely than patients aged 0-44 years to opt for telephone visits (relative risk reduction [RRR] 1.2; 95% CI 1.06-1.35). Patient sex (P=.99), race (P=.06), type of insurance (P=.08), and number of previous visits to the clinic (P=.63) were not statistically relevant. Half of the respondents (132/244, 54.1%) stated they were likely to continue with telepsychiatry even after in-person visits were made available. Telephone visit users were less likely than video visit users to anticipate future participation in telepsychiatry (RRR 1.08; 95% CI 0.97-1.2). Overall, virtual visits met or exceeded expectations for the majority of users. In this cohort, patient age correlates with the choice of virtual visit type, with older adults more likely to choose telephone visits over video visits. Understanding challenges to patient-facing technologies can help advance health equity and guide best practices for engaging patients and families through telehealth.
English as a Medium of Instruction in Brazil: Evidence from UFES
Authors: Taquini Reninni , Finardi Kyria Rebeca
Published: January 2021

The study reflects on the role of additional languages (L2) in the process of internationalization of higher education by analyzing the role of L2 in general and English in particular in the process of internationalization of a federal university in Brazil (UFES). More specifically, the study seeks evidence of the role of L2 and English in the process of internationalization at UFES by analyzing its offer of courses reported in the Guide EMI 2018-2019 in contrast with data from the self-declared L2 proficiency of professors linked to postgraduate programs (PPGs) in that institution. The literature review includes studies on the role of L2 in the process of internationalization in Brazil and at UFES. The methodology is mixed, triangulating quantitative and qualitative data of the offer of L2 courses at UFES with the reported proficiency levels of professors. The analysis of the data suggests that English has a hegemonic role in the internationalization process in general and at UFES in particular. Since other L2 possibilities have been found in that institution, the study suggests alternative language policies to stimulate the use of other L2 apart from English to foster a more multilingual internationalization process in that context.
PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF LEAF EXTRACTS OF CARICA PAPAYA
Authors: G NANDINI , TS GOPENATH , PRASAD NAGALAMBIKA , KARTHIKEYAN MURUGESAN , GNANASEKARAN ASHOK , MS RANJITH , PALANISAMY PRADEEP , M BASALINGAPPA KANTHESH
Published: January 2021

Objective: The objective of the present study aimed at investigating the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of Carica papaya leaf extracts.

Methods: As phytochemicals are biologically active compounds and a powerful group of plant chemicals, believed to stimulate the immune system along with antioxidants, the molecules which hinder oxidation of other molecules by the process of inhibiting or by generating the oxidizing chain reactions and preventing diseases. The total phenolic content (TPC) was determined by Folin-Ciocalteu method and total flavonoid contents (TFC) were determined aluminum chloride method and antioxidant by 2,2,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method.

Results: The results of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloid, carbohydrates, and amino acids and TPC and TFC varied among the different solvent extracts, in which methanolic extracts showed highest amount of phytochemicals and TPC and TFC and antioxidants compared to other solvents.

Conclusion: The isolation and purification of specific bioactive compound may account as natural and promising medicines in exploration of new drug.
EVALUATION OF NEUROPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF AZILSARTAN AS MEMORY ENHANCER AGAINST SCOPOLAMINE AND SODIUM NITRITE-INDUCED AMNESIA IN SWISS ALBINO MALE RATS
Authors: THAKUR CHANCHAL , ASHWLAYAN VRISH DHWAJ
Published: January 2021

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the neuroprotective effect of azilsartan as a memory enhancer against scopolamine-induced amnesia in rats.

Methods: Albino Swiss male rats in equal numbers per group (n=6) were taken. Scopolamine hydrobromide was administered to induce amnesia within the rats. Control group rats were administered normal, negative control groups were administered with scopolamine to induce amnesia and nitrite during trials, positive control group rats were administered piracetam+ scopolamine and piracetam nitrite during trials, and test control group rats were administered azilsartan +sodium nitrite and azilsartan nitrite. Exteroceptive behavioral models just like the elevated plus-maze model, Morris water maze model, acquisition trials, and retrieval trial were wont to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of azilsartan.

Results: The scopolamine and azilsartan have a significantly decreasing effect on time spent within the target quadrant (TSTQ) but piracetam has an increasing effect. The effect of azilsartan on transfer latency time (TLT) was observed against scopolamine-induced amnesia in rats using the elevated plus-maze test. Piracetam was found to decrease the TLT and restore memory function at a better dose. Within the case of scopolamine treated rats, a big increase in TLT was noted. Azilsartan treated group also increased TLT within the elevated plus maze. It is noted that the scopolamine features a significantly increasing effect on escape latency time (ELT). Piracetam features a decreasing effect on ELT. A rise in ELT was seen because of azilsartan.

Conclusion: This study suggested that the azilsartan features a significant decreasing effect on TSTQ, azilsartan treated group also increased TLT and ELT.
COMPUTATIONAL ANALYSIS OF NARINGENIN AS AN ANTIDEPRESSANT
Authors: N PREMJANU , JAYNTHY CHELLAM
Published: January 2021

Objective: This works aims at analyzing the potential of Naringenin (NAR) as an antidepressant drug by computational methods.

Methods: The database Protein Data Bank and PubChem were used to retrieve the three-dimensional structures of the protein and the compound. The software Discovery Studio was used to study the interactions between the protein and the ligand.

Results: NAR, one of the flavanone, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, is studied for its antidepressant and neuroprotective effects through in silico approach. Interaction study and pharmacophore analysis using Discovery Studio show that the molecule NAR interacts with the protein at different sites. The interaction has a maximum dock score at position B.

Conclusion: The compound NAR shows to have antidepressant quality from the computational study. The docking studies show promising result that NAR can be explored further as a potential drug.
INSIGHT OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF VENTILAGO MADERASPATANA LEAVES ON HEPATOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY UNDER STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS
Authors: REDDY B VENUGOPAL , REDDY M RAMANA , SUBBAIAH G VENKATA , REDDY K SATHYAVELU
Published: January 2021

Objective: The methanolic leaf extract of Ventilago maderaspatana (MEVML, 200 mg/kg body weight [b.w.]) was investigate to hepatoprotective activity under streptozotocin-induced (45 mg/kg b.w.) diabetic (Di) rats.

Methods: In the present study, we determined the blood glucose levels, b.w., insulin, creatinine, and bilirubin levels in normal, Di, Di treated with MEVML and positive control rats.

Results: The Di rats shown adverse changes in blood glucose levels, b.w., insulin, creatinine, and bilirubin levels when compared to other group rats. Reverse the adverse changes in the above parameters when treated the Di rats with MEVML

Conclusion: The MEVML shown anti-diabetic activity and reverse the adverse changes in the above parameters in liver so that the MEVML supported the traditional claim of the hepatoprotective activity under Di condition.
COMPARISON OF VISION OUTCOMES BETWEEN SICS (SMALL-INCISION CATARACT SURGERY) AND PHACOEMULSIFICATION IN CATARACT SURGERY
Authors: SAI K NAVYA , REDDY C SUHAS , K SRILEKHA , PRIYA K AVANTHI
Published: January 2021

Objectives: The main objective of the study is to compare the vision outcomes between small-incision cataract surgery (SICS) and phacoemulsification (PHACO) procedures, to compare the quality of life (QOL) before surgery and after surgery, to improve the patient’s knowledge of their disease condition, and to increase medication adherence after the surgery.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted for 6 months. About 100 patients were enrolled in the study according to the study criteria. Different scales ([visual function questionnaire] VFQ 25, QOL scale [QOLS] by Schalock and Keith, Morisky Adherence Scale -8 items) were scored from the patient’s profile and treatment chart by communicating with physicians, counseling the patients.

Results: One hundred patients were assessed before and after cataract surgery and follow-up was made for 1 month. Overall, vision-related QOL was significantly improved in PHACO than SICS patients. National Eye Institute VFQ 25 was assessed on day 7 and day 30 where we have observed a statistically significant improvement in the PHACO group of patients than in SICS. Their medication adherence scores were categorized into a high, medium, low category, and most of the SICS patients remained in the medium category, whereas the number of patients increased from medium to high category in PHACO patients.

Conclusion: We concluded that PHACO is better than small incisional cataract surgery due to its small and self-sealing incision, which requires no stitches in most cases, with minimum complications the patient heals faster and recovers rapidly.
EFFECT OF DROTAVERINE, A PHOSPHODIESTERASE 4 INHIBITOR IN SCOPOLAMINE-INDUCED COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN RATS
Authors: MK KAYALVIZHI
Published: January 2021

Objective: Cognitive impairment (CI) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and causes significant dementia in the elderly. Intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling has been well established in the mediation of memory. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of cAMP and/or cyclic GMP. Drotaverine is a novel non-anticholinergic smooth muscle antispasmodic which acts by inhibiting PDE-4. It is now clinically used in smooth muscle spasms (intestinal, biliary and renal colic, irritable bowel syndrome, uterine spasms, etc.) without anticholinergic side effects. Since Drotaverine has PDE4 inhibition property, its role in learning and memory was evaluated in this study and found that it has memory enhancing effect comparable with donepezil in scopolamine-induced CI in rats.

Methods: Learning and memory were assessed with two behavioral models, namely, elevated plus maze (EPM) and Y maze. CI was produced by scopolamine. Rats were divided into five groups, Group I treated with normal saline, Group II treated with scopolamine, and Groups III, IV, and V were treated with donepezil, Drotaverine, and both, respectively.

Results: The result analysis revealed significant differences in transfer latency in EPM performance between Groups III, IV, V and Group II (***p<0.001). The results of spontaneous alternation in Y maze show that there was a significant difference among all the treatments groups (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Drotaverine has promising memory enhancing effect in CI induced by scopolamine in rats. Further clinical trials are needed to prove this finding which has been elicited in animal models.
ASSESSMENT OF PROBIOTIC PROPERTIES OF THE STRAIN LACTOBACILLUS PARACASEI D6 AND ITS ANTICANDIDAL ACTIVITIES
Authors: SAIKIA DEVABRATA , MANDAL MANABENDRA
Published: January 2021

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the probiotic properties of a strain Lactobacillus paracasei D6 (GenBank Accession No. KJ867173) and to assess its antifungal activities against certain Candida strains.

Methods: Antifungal activities of Lactobacillus paracasei D6 was tested against Candida tropicalis BSS7 and C. albicans MTCC 3017. The cell-free extract was tested against the formation of biofilm and germ tube of the aforementioned Candida strains. Different probiotic activities such as tolerance to simulated gastrointestinal fluid, adhesion to hydrocarbons, and Caco-2 cell line were evaluated for the strain Lactobacillus paracasei D6. Inhibition of Candida strains to Caco-2 cell line was also tested. The strains were identified using gene sequencing followed by phylogenetic tree construction.

Results: The probiotic properties of Lactobacillus paracasei D6 were found to be statistically comparable with a standard Lactobacillus plantarum MTCC 1407. The biofilm and germ tube formation patterns of the food spoilage isolate C. tropicalis BSS7 were found to be similar to the strain C. albicans MTCC 3017. Cell-free extract of Lactobacillus paracasei D6 exhibited minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration of 0.438 mg/ml against C. tropicalis BSS7, which was found to be sufficient to inhibit its germ tube formation. The adhesion of C. tropicalis BSS7 to the epithelial Caco-2 cell line was also significantly reduced by the antifungal metabolites.

Conclusion: This work gives insight on possible virulent nature of the food isolate C. tropicalis BSS7. Exometabolites produced by L. paracasei D6 were able to inhibit growth, biofilm and germ tube formation of both the strains. With this work, the authors envisage the beginning of an alternative strategy for anticandidal therapy.
Modyfikowanie HTPB (α,ω-dihydroksypolibutadienu) w reakcjach estryfikacji, silanizacji, epoksydacji i uwodornienia
Authors: Chmielarek Michał , Maksimowski Paweł , Gołofit Tomasz , Cieślak Katarzyna , Pawłowski Wojciech , Tomaszewski Waldemar
Published: January 2021

HTPB is a valuable comonomer for the preparation of polyurethanes. Thanks to its specific properties, it gives these materials frost resistance and excellent mechanical properties, especially at low temperatures. The polyurethanes thus obtained are used in the production of propellants used in space and military rocket propulsion, and are the basis for frost-resistant adhesives and insulating materials. Research on the selection of binder indicates the use of high energy polymers or modifications of previously used polymers improving their properties. The results of research on ways of changing the properties of HTPB through its modification and thus an increase of application possibilities will be presented.
10 preguntas de los edificios energía cero: revisión del estado del arte
Authors: D'Amanzo Micaela , Mercado María Victoria , Ganem-Karlen Carolina
Published: January 2021

Zero Energy Buildings (ZEB) promote a comprehensive view of sustainable architecture and a profound change in the way to build. Research and development in energy transition must necessarily face technological and socio-economic issues. In that line, the goal here is to offer a response to minimize the building sector’s energy and environmental impact. To this end, a review of the state of the art of the subject was carried out, where 97 scientific articles from a period comprising 2006 to 2020, considered the most pertinent, were selected. The methodology consisted of analyzing these texts based on ten questions formulated to address the subject: their origins, current status and future projections regarding energy efficiency and sustainability. The questions refer to definitions (Q1), sustainability (Q2), technologies involved (Q3), emissions (Q5), energy (Q4) (Q6) (Q7), regulations (Q8), climate change (Q9), and future projections (Q10). The work allows concluding that ZEB are integrated in a holistic way in the transformation towards a renewable and sustainable future in terms of energy solutions and, in turn, they have the potential to be implemented in different geographical and climatic positions.