bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmalogen-Mediated Activation of GPCR21 Regulates Cytolytic Activity of NK Cells against the Target Cells
Authors: Hossain Md Shamim , Mawatari Shiro , Fujino Takehiko
Published: July 2022

It is widely known that the immune system becomes slower to respond among elderly people, making them more susceptible to viral infection and cancer. The mechanism of aging-related immune deficiency remained mostly elusive. In this article, we report that plasmalogens (Pls), special phospholipids found to be reduced among the elderly population, critically control cytolytic activity of human NK cells, which is associated with activation of a cell surface receptor, G protein–coupled receptor 21 (GPCR21). We found the extracellular glycosylation site of GPCR21, which is conserved among the mammalian species, to be critically important for the activation of NK cells by Pls. The Pls-GPCR21 signaling cascade induces the expression of Perforin-1, a cytolytic pore-forming protein, via activation of STAT5 transcription factor. Inhibition of STAT5 abrogates GPCR21-mediated cytolytic activation of NK cells against the target cancer cells. In addition, oral ingestion of Pls inhibited cancer growth in SCID mice and inhibited the systemic spread of murine CMV in adult C57BL/6J mice. These findings advocate that Pls-GPCR21 signaling could be critical in maintaining NK cell function, and that the age-related reduction of this signaling cascade could be one of the factors behind immune deficiency in mammals, including humans.
Analysis of Large-Scale Hybrid Aerospace Spur Gear Drivetrains
Authors: Gauntt Sean , McIntyre Sean , Campbell Robert
Published: July 2022

The hybrid gear concept, which combines a metallic outer rim of gear teeth with a composite web, has shown potential to reduce the weight of small-scale spur gears without negatively affecting vibration performance for low- and medium-speed applications. In this paper, the hybrid gear
design and tooth microgeometry optimization technique that had been applied to small-scale spur gears was adapted for application to spur gears of aerospace-relevant scale, speed, and load. A single reduction drivetrain model was developed featuring large-scale hybrid spur gears, which was
used to determine optimal tooth microgeometry modifications that minimized peak-to-peak transmission error. Static and dynamic transmission error analyses were then performed using the optimal microgeometries. Results were compared to those predicted for a similarlyoptimized all-steel drivetrain.
The application of optimal tooth microgeometries to large-scale hybrid gears led to a more significant decrease in a peak-to-peak transmission error than was observed for the small-scale gears. Similar to results for small-scale hybrid gears, the drivetrains featuring large-scale hybrid gears
predicted similar dynamic transmission errors to their all-steel counterparts at low and medium speeds, while significantly different transmission errors were predicted at high speeds.
Analysis of the Rook (Corvus frugilegus) wintering population in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region (Italy) using maximum entropy models
Authors: Conti Leonardo , Iacobelli Simona , Sottili Caterina , Taiariol Pier Luigi
Published: July 2022

This research analyzed the wintering population of rooks (Corvus frugilegus) in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region (Italy) from 2010 to 2020. The goal was to determine the population size, trend, and distribution over the decade by assessing census data and evaluating the study area's environmental suitability. It was important to identify the relationship between the region’s environmental characteristics and the presence of the species by developing territory suitability models, processed using the maximum entropy algorithms and MaxEnt (maximum entropy) software. It was possible to determine the combinations of the factors potentially influencing habitat attendance, to develop environmental suitability maps, and to identify the area with the greater probability of the presence of the species, as well as those areas with potential suitability. Data for the presence of wintering rooks were derived from annual censuses, carried out by direct observation along pre-established transects in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Based on the census data, that total number of rooks in Friuli Venezia Giulia across the 10-year period had a maximum peak recorded in 2015 (1543) and a minimum in 2019 (853). The distribution of the species was concentrated in the central-southern areas of the region, with greater turnout in the areas characterized by agricultural land use, while the mountainous areas, located in the southern part of the region, were excluded. The environmental suitability models developed with MaxEnt on a regional scale demonstrated excellent predictive capacity, validating the species’ ecological needs. Although the rook is not an endangered species, its range has been drastically reduced in Italy, at least in the last century, and MaxEnt could be used in the future as a management tool in order to outline conservation actions for the species, especially for its habitats.
Primo dato genetico per il fratino (Charadrius alexandrinus) in Italia e confronto su scala continentale
Authors: Guerrini Monica , Politi Paolo Maria , Puglisi Luca , Barbanera Filippo
Published: July 2022

Il fratino (Charadrius alexandrinus, Charadriformes) è una specie con distribuzione ampia che comprende i litorali di tutta la fascia temperata e subtropicale di Europa, Asia ed Africa. Negli ultimi decenni la disponibilità di habitat per la nidificazione della specie è risultata fortemente limitata dalla distruzione diretta o perdita funzionale delle aree dunali ad opera del crescente turismo costiero. Quando non è preclusa la possibilità di insediarsi sul litorale, il successo riproduttivo risulta comunque drasticamente ridotto dal disturbo antropico. In Italia, il fratino è in forte diminuzione ed è classificato “In Pericolo” nella Lista Rossa dei vertebrati italiani. Tre nuclei stabili sono noti in Toscana, di cui uno nel comune di Castagneto Carducci (Livorno). In quest’area, il recupero di un uovo fratturato a seguito di una forte mareggiata (2020) sull’arenile della Zona Speciale di Conservazione/Zona di Protezione Speciale Padule di Bolgheri, ha permesso l’amplificazione tramite PCR di un frammento di 523 pb della Regione di Controllo del DNA mitocondriale. La sequenza è stata allineata con altre 198 scaricate dalla GenBank al fine di ricostruire le relazioni genetiche tra fratini sulla base sia dell’origine geografica che dell’appartenenza a popolazioni continentali o insulari, identificare gruppi geneticamente omogenei, e testare un’ipotesi di espansione demografica attraverso l’intero areale di distribuzione della specie. La diversità genetica è risultata più elevata nelle isole rispetto alle aree continentali. Dei 47 aplotipi (H) totali, 35 sono privati mentre tra i rimanenti, tutti condivisi da più popolazioni, due si sono distinti per elevata frequenza: uno (H3) è stato quasi esclusivamente rinvenuto in Europa mentre l’altro (H14) nell’intera Eurasia (con prevalenza orientale). Il fratino di Bolgheri è stato assegnato all’aplotipo H3 insieme a soggetti originari soprattutto della Penisola Iberica e della Macaronesia. Nel complesso, tre gruppi genetici omogenei sono stati identificati nell’intero areale della specie; tuttavia, a conferma di un elevato flusso genico intraspecifico, nessuno di questi possiede una definita struttura spaziale. Infine, le analisi demografiche hanno evidenziato una significativa espansione demografica su scala continentale nella storia naturale del fratino. Questo studio rappresenta il primo contributo alla conoscenza delle affinità genetiche della popolazione italiana di fratino e sottolinea l’urgenza di investigare la specie su scala nazionale per definire strategie di conservazione più adeguatamente informate.
The impact of social and institutional networks in sustaining South African rural small, medium and micro enterprises during the crisis
Authors: Farisani Tshililo R.
Published: July 2022

Orientation: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its subsequent variants, has exposed the ill-preparedness of Small, Medium and Micro enterprises (SMMEs) to grow and sustain themselves and, by extension, livelihoods after the pandemic induced socio-economic crises around the world.Research purpose: This study aimed to contribute to an understanding of the impact of social and institutional networks in sustaining South African rural SMMEs during the crisis in rural municipalities.Motivation for the study: Previous studies on the sustainability of South Africa’s SMMEs have identified challenges and opportunities for urban-based SMMEs without clarifying the roles of rural-based social and institutional networks. This study was an attempt to fill that gap.Research design, approach and methods: This qualitative research design used an interpretative research paradigm to achieve the research objectives. Data were collected from 34 purposively (social network analysis group interviews) and 35 snowballing (semi-structured one-on-one interviews) selected participants from two rural municipalities. Data were analysed using NVivo 12 software.Main findings: The findings of the study revealed that, in the absence of provincial and nationally based institutions, rural SMME supportive groups established alternative local social and institutional networks to sustain their SMMEs in the post-socio-economic crisis period.Practical/managerial implications: It is therefore recommended that all the institutions must work together to transform rural SMMEs from their unsustainable state to sustainability (post socio-economic crisis).Contribution/value-add: By drawing on the critical elements of the sustainable livelihoods framework and institutional theory, this study proposed a conceptual model for sustaining rural SMMEs during crisis.
Formulation of phage cocktails and evaluation of their interaction with antibiotics in inhibiting carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in vitro in Kenya
Authors: Michodigni Noutin F. , Nyachieo Atunga , Akhwale Juliah K. , Magoma Gabriel , Ouédraogo Abdoul-Salam , Kimang’a Andrew N.
Published: July 2022

Background: The development of alternative control measures, such as phage therapy or adjunctive therapy, is urgently needed to manage the dissemination of carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of formulated phage cocktails and their interaction with select antibiotics in inhibiting the growth of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae clinical isolate in vitro in Kenya.Methods: The study was conducted from February 2021 to October 2021 at the Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi, Kenya. Phage cocktails were formulated based on the morphology and biological properties of precipitated Klebsiella phages. The efficacy of individual bacteriophages and phage cocktails as well as their combination with antibiotics were determined for their inhibitory activity on carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KP20).Results: The precipitated bacteriophages were members of Myoviridae, Siphoviridae and Podoviridae. Regarding the evaluation of the phage cocktails, the absorbances at 600 nm of the bacterial culture treated with the two-phage cocktail (2φ MA) ranged from 0.173 to 0.246 at 16 h and 20 h whereas it peaked from 2.116 to 2.190 for the positive control. Moreover, the results of the adjunctive therapy showed that the optical density at 600 nm of the bacterial culture treated with 2φ MA was 0.186 at 24 h post-incubation time while it was 0.099 with the bacterial culture treated with imipenem in combination with 2φ MA.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the two-phage cocktail in combination with imipenem was able to synergistically delay the increase in carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae growth in vitro.
The agency of the church during COVID-19 and beyond: Koinonia and ubuntu in the context of poverty and unemployment in South Africa
Authors: Ngcobo Themba E. , Mashau Thinandavha D.
Published: July 2022

The spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disrupted, affected and changed human lives in many ways, namely: physically, emotionally, financially, psychologically and spiritually. Apart from people losing their lives and the lives of loved ones, others lost their jobs in numbers. Poverty levels and unemployment increased during this period. In order to mitigate the devastating effects of COVID-19, the South African government introduced a relief grant. As we welcome this gesture of goodwill by government, it is argued in this article that the church in every given locality and from every denomination should serve as the agency of change in order to alleviate poverty and unemployment in South Africa. The research question that this article seeks to address is: What role can the church play as a change agent in the context of poverty and unemployment in South Africa? Whilst qualitative literature study is undertaken to unpack issues of COVID-19, poverty, unemployment and church agency, this article is also approached from a broader missiological framework. Tapping into the resourcefulness of the early Christian church koinonia and the African concept of ubuntu, the article locates the church as an agent of change not only as a way of ending poverty and unemployment in South Africa, but also as a way meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1 (UN SDG1).Contribution: It is therefore the aim of this article not only to call for the agency of the church but to also demonstrate that Christian koinonia as a lived experience of the early Christian church and African ubuntu philosophy can serve as tools for the church to bring about transformation.
Character education in the tradition of peraq api in the community of Sasak, Lombok, Indonesia
Authors: Nuruddin Nuruddin
Published: July 2022

Character education values are discovered in cultural activities and human interactions with God, others and themselves. This study aims to explore and describe the value of character education in the peraq api of Sasak community in Lombok. This article uses a qualitative research approach. The data collection techniques include observation, interviews and documentation. The data analysis used triangulation with the stages of identifying interview material, classifying, coding, taking emic and hermeneutical approaches. The results of the study elucidate that the procedures and stages of the ritual begin from experimentation, which is considered and believed to have magical powers but does not conflict with religious values. The stages that are passed in carrying out the ritual include activities to prepare materials, process materials, fumigation, carry out rituals and give baby names. The character values comprised in the peraq api tradition are religious, ethical, responsible and environmental care character.Contribution: This research contributes to maintaining the values of character education in the Sasak society.
Tougher than the rest? The impact of COVID-19 on South African exporters
Authors: Matthee Marianne , Saville Adrian , Flowerday Wayde , Bezuidenhout Carli
Published: July 2022

Background: This article examined the performance of South African export-oriented firms during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The study is conducted against the backdrop of an export sector which has grown in importance since South Africa came out of economic isolation in the early 1990s, an effect which has been amplified in the last decade given that the world economy has grown meaningfully faster than the domestic sector of the South African economy.Objectives: Given the importance of the rising importance of the export sector, the performance of South African exporting firms is considered, given the observed resilience of export-oriented firms in developed and developing markets. Notably, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic challenged this resilience by disrupting export-oriented firms on the demand side and supply side in their home and foreign markets, potentially threatening network effects and diversification benefits, which have been traditional sources of resilience.Method: Drawing on data for 1023 South African firms, regression analysis was used to assess the impacts of the pandemic on exporting firms relative to non-exporting firms. The study also considered various heterogeneous aspects of exporting firms to provide further insight on their resilience, including firm size, firm age, industry of operation and the nature of export relationships.Results: Incorporating the above various factors, the study results show that export-oriented firms were significantly more vulnerable than non-exporting firms to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.Conclusion: The findings have important implications for policy. First, export-oriented firms are found to be more vulnerable to disruption than non-exporting firms. This is contrary to expectations and different to experiences in other markets. This finding highlights the importance of policy support to the export sector during periods of uncertainty. Second, the export sector’s contribution to the South African economy has grown meaningfully over the past three decades, underlining the importance of supporting a sector that experiences heightened vulnerability when crises strike.
The impact of human resource practices on employee retention: A study of three private higher educational institutions in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Alajlani Sami , Yesufu Lawal O.
Published: July 2022

Orientation: Human resource (HR) practices have a significant impact on building the perceptions that define the relationships between employees and employers. Hence, it is imperative to develop further knowledge on how these HR practices impact employee retention within the higher education context.Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between various HR practices and employee retention in an organisation. The article also investigates the effect of HR practices across employees of various demographic backgrounds, such as citizens and expatriates.Motivation for the study: The limited research was conducted on employee retention in higher education despite the fundamental role that higher education institutions play in driving innovation, developing knowledge capital and research and development.Research design: Descriptive statistical analysis and multiple regression analysis with a sample size of 270 employees working across three higher education institutions in the United Arab Emirates (UAEs).Main findings: The findings showed that HR practices can improve employees’ retention, with moderate positive perceptions amongst UAE citizens, but an unsatisfactory level of perception and effect of human resource practices amongst expatriates.Practical implications: The results indicate a difference in the effects of HR practices across various demographics within the same the section. Hence, HR management should be looking at a unification of HR practices to obtain unified results in loyalty, commitment and employee retention.Contribution: However, the results also indicated that this gap in employees’ retention can be minimised by improving on empowerment and compensation and benefits, with even more enforcements of training.
Editing for change: From global bibliometrics to a decolonial aporetics of form in South African journal publishing
Authors: Froneman Willemien , Muller Stephanus
Published: July 2022

The scholarly journal is an increasingly homogenised global institution marked by pro forma writing, standardised processes of review and production and uniform design aesthetics. Recognising that this model does not necessarily serve the interdisciplinary agenda of a small community of music scholars in South Africa, the journal South African Music Studies has resisted absorption into large corporate publishing houses. The importance of remaining independent became clear in 2015 and 2016 when the most important student revolts since 1976 forced the editors to reconsider the responsibility of the journal to publish content that responded in interesting and significant ways to the national #FeesMustFall crisis. This paper discusses some of the strategies followed by the editors to foreground – and indeed, to privilege – Africa-centred modes of writing and reasoning during this turbulent time. These decolonial strategies included reconceptualising the role of editor as a proactive figure and employing novel modes of structural and visual design. Not without its pitfalls, this editorial approach and its resultant controversies raised important legal questions about freedom of expression and about the scholarly journal as an institution of knowledge production and transformation in Africa.
Breastfeeding and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Abd Elmaksoud Marwa S. , Aly Omneya , Abd Elfatah Magdy , Mahfouz Aml
Published: July 2022

Background

Breastfeeding (BF) was suggested as an environmental factor that may confer a protective role against autism.

Aim

The primary aim was to compare the patterns of BF in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with their typically developing siblings. The secondary objective was to conduct a pilot study to investigate the effect of BF on the severity of the core ASD symptoms and the intellectual functions among children with ASD.

Patients and methods

A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the Outpatient Clinic of Alexandria University Children’s Hospital on 100 children; 50 children with ASD (group A, n=50) and 50 typically developing children; siblings of children of group A (group B, n=50) using a designed semistructured questionnaire.

Results

The comparison between both groups revealed that neither BF ever, early initiation, prolonged duration, nor exclusive BF were statistically different in children with autism and their siblings. Among children with ASD, there was a significant positive relationship between early BF initiation and less severe core symptoms of autism on Childhood Autism Rating Scale scores (U=405, P=0.017) and better intellectual functions on intelligence quotient score (U=18, P=0.03). Exclusive BF had a weak significant positive correlation (r=0.31, P=0.03) with higher intellectual functions on the intelligence quotient score.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BF practices are not linked to autism in children at risk. However, because early BF initiation is connected to less severe ASD core symptoms, our study implies that BF can be regarded a predictive factor of optimal outcomes for children with ASD. Future research with a prospective design and a large sample size could aid in establishing a cause-and-effect relationship.
Linear growth response to growth hormone therapy in underweight versus normal weight short children
Authors: El Awwa Ahmed M.S. , Soliman Ashraf T. , El Siddig Suhair , Farag Marwa M.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Physiologically, growth hormone (GH) increases lean body mass and has a lipolytic function. However, long-term changes in weight status during GH treatment, as a function of pretreatment weight status have not previously been reported in large data sets.

Aim

To identify the growth response to GH therapy in those who were before treatment underweight versus normal weight short children.

Patients and methods

A retrospective study, we studied the auxologic data of 78 short, prepubertal children [height standard deviation score (HtSDS) less than −2 SDS below the mean for age and sex] with normal GH secretion [idiopathic short stature (ISS)]. Two groups were identified according to their pretreatment body mass index standard deviation score (BMISDS). Nineteen children were underweight (BMISDS < −2) and 59 children had normal BMISDS (>−2). All children received daily subcutaneous dose of GH (0.03–0.05 mg/kg/day) to keep their insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) level between 0 and 2 SD for 2 years.

Results

Before GH treatment, the underweight ISS group had significantly lower IGF-1 level versus the normal weight group with IGF-1 SD −1.633±0.766 SD versus −0.749±1.197 SD, respectively. Age and HtSDS did not differ among the two underweight and normal weight groups. Treatment with GH for 2 years was associated with a significant increase in the BMISDS in the underweight group (BMISDS increased by 0.45 SD) from −2.063±0.344 before treatment with GH versus −1.633±0.766 after treatment but not in the normal weight group. The HtSDS increased significantly in both groups after GH therapy, but the increase was greater in children with normal weight versus those with underweight as the increment in HtSDS was 0.42 and 0.374 SD, respectively. The difference of HtSDS from mid-parental HtSDS in low BMI versus normal BMI groups was −0.91 and −1.212 SD, respectively

Conclusions

GH therapy for 2 years significantly increased the IGF-1 level and improved BMISDS and HtSDS in underweight children with ISS. The BMISDS was better in the underweight group, but their HtSDS was less compared with the normal weight group.
Study of uric acid excretion in children with beta-thalassemia major attending Alexandria University Children’s Hospital
Authors: Hassanein Nehad , El Din Thabet Mohamed A. , Maarouf Dina , Mikhail Nevien
Published: July 2022

Background

It is evident that high cell turnover rate is present in patients suffering from β-thalassemia. This is mainly the result of not only chronic hemolysis but also ineffective erythropoiesis. It is thus expected that hyperuricemia will occur.

Aim

Our study was conducted to study uric acid excretion in β-thalassemia major patients and to determine its relationship to tubular dysfunction in those patients.

Patients and methods

This case–control study was performed on 60 patients with β-thalassemia major and 15 children who were healthy and well, playing the role of the control group. Thorough history taking, review of medical records, and complete physical examination were done for all patients. Evaluation of uric acid excretion, glomerular and tubular renal functions were performed and compared between patients and the control group.

Results

Hyperuricemia was found in 48.8% of patients; however, none of the patients had evidence of gouty arthritis or nephrolithiasis. Serum uric acid (SUA) levels in patients who had positive correlation with serum creatinine, urine P/Cr ratio and urine uric acid/glomerular filtration rate (UUA/GFR), negative correlation with eGFR and no correlation with urine calcium/creatinine (UCa/UCr) ratio, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), urine β2 MG, and urinary uric acid/creatinine (UUa/UCr) ratio were assessed. The mean SUA level, BUN, serum creatinine, and levels of eGFR were significantly higher in β-thalassemia patients in comparison to the control group. Urinary P/Cr ratio, urine uric acid/ glomerular filtration rate (UUA/GFR) ratio, β-2 microglobulin levels, UCa/UCr, and UUa/UCr were also higher in β-thalassemia patients in comparison to the control group. The present study has a mean age of 8.62 years for the cases studied, and investigations in patients revealed the following results: mean SUA 5.17 mg/dl, mean BUN 16.58 mg/dl, mean serum creatinine 0.49 mg/dl, mean urine P/Cr ratio 1.40, mean eGFR 141.42 ml/min/1.73 m2, mean UUA/GFR 0.55, mean urine β2 MG 0.18 µg/ml, mean UCa/UCr 0.44, UUa/UCr 1.46, and these results were statistically significantly higher in patients compared with controls.

Conclusion

Renal dysfunction and hyperuricemia are prevalent among patients with β-thalassemia major, mostly related to hyperfiltration and tubular dysfunction. Early markers of tubular dysfunction (urine β2 MG, UCa/UCr, UUa/UCr) and glomerular dysfunction (urine P/Cr ratio and urinary uric acid/GFR ratio) should be followed up regularly in β-thalassemia major patients.
Prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency among children with epilepsy
Authors: Bedar Hamdy M. , Mansour Amal R. , Ahmed Doaa H. , Elsakka Elham E.
Published: July 2022

Background and aim

The relation between vitamin D, the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), and bone integrity has been found in patients with epilepsy. The aim of the work was to study the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency among children with epilepsy, and to identify some possible risk factors.

Patients and methods

A comparative cross-sectional study was done on randomly chosen 60 children with epilepsy aged 3–15 years attending the neurology out-patient clinic and 20 healthy age-matched and sex-matched children, attending the pediatric outpatient clinic at Alexandria University Children’s Hospital from September 2014 to March 2015. They were divided into three groups: group I included 40 children receiving AED monotherapy for more than 1 year; group II included newly diagnosed epileptic children before receiving medications; group III included 20 healthy children as controls. History taking included patients’ age, sex, seizure history, nutritional history, sunlight exposure, associated illness or drug intake and history of vitamin D or calcium supplementation. Clinical examinations were done (systematic and neurological examination, weight and BMI). Laboratory investigations [liver and kidney function tests, serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels] were done. Electroencephalogram was done for groups I and II.

Results

There was no significant difference between all groups regarding age and sex. The BMI was significantly different between groups II and III. Laboratory tests (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, urea, creatinine, serum calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels) showed no significant differences between the three studied groups. The mean of 25(OH)D among children in group I was significantly lower compared with children in group III. Females were associated with insufficient and deficient levels of vitamin D. There were statistically significant relations between 25(OH)D levels and BMI and the duration of AED treatment in group I.

Conclusion

The present study provides evidence of the increased prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency among newly diagnosed children with epilepsy and in those on treatment with AEDs. In addition, the study has indicated that female sex, high BMI, AED use (carbamazepine, Na valproate) and prolonged duration of treatment are risk factors for vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency.
Psychosis in a patient with tuberous sclerosis
Authors: Chakravarty Rahul , Chauhan Devika , Sahoo Swapnajeet
Published: July 2022

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystemic genetic disorder which affects 1 in 6000–10,000 people worldwide. It usually affects the central nervous system and presents with multitude of symptoms such as seizures, skin abnormalities, intellectual disability, kidney disease, and behavioral problems. Psychosis has been rarely reported in patients with TSC. The Indian data on patients with TSC are sparse. We report a patient with TSC who presented with psychotic symptoms and discussed the management. Psychosis in patients with TSC is a rare association, and therefore, it should be assessed periodically while evaluating general health issues of patients with TSC.
Laterality of cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia
Authors: Pant Kanchan , Garg Shobit , Tikka Sai Krishna , Mishra Preeti , Tyagi Priya
Published: July 2022

Background:

Clear localization (or) related deficits would make gateways for forming rehabilitation strategies much needed to enhance functionality in schizophrenia. We aimed to study the neuropsychological dysfunction including laterality in schizophrenia patients by using the native All India Institute of Medical Sciences Comprehensive Neuropsychological Battery (AIIMS CNB) in Hindi Adult form.

Materials and Methods:

In a cross-sectional study design, 40 right-handed schizophrenia patients in the age range of 18–59 years with primary education who can read and write were purposively recruited. Neuropsychological assessment and psychopathology were assessed by AIIMS CNB and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), respectively. Raw scores and T-scores were recorded, and lateralization scores were calculated. The localization was estimated by commuting eight lobe scales. Statistical analyses of the quantitative scores were done using IBM SPSS 28.

Results:

The mean PANSS total scores and dose of chlorpromazine equivalents of the sample were 88.900 ± 9.940 and 497.500 ± 100.607 mg. 62.5% of the participants reportedly had the presence of brain dysfunction based on T-scores. Right hemispheric lateralization of cognitive deficits was present markedly in 95% of schizophrenia subjects. As per lobe scale scores, the right sensory-motor lobe (60%) and the right frontal lobe (27.5%) were found to be most dysfunctional.

Conclusion:

Majority of schizophrenia patients are dysfunctional as per AIIMS CNB and have hemispheric lateralization (right) of deficits. Our findings challenge the loss of asymmetry verdicts in schizophrenia.
A cross-sectional study of attitude toward suicide among medical and nonmedical groups from South India
Authors: Godi Sangha Mitra , Neredumilli Prasanna Kumar
Published: July 2022

Context:

Suicide and attempted suicide are some of the alarming issues in recent times. It was the second leading cause of death among 15–29 years old in 2015. The suicide death toll is rising alarmingly in India, which needs prevention strategies and a suicide prevention policy nationally. Attitude toward suicide varies depending on social, cultural, and individual perceptions and beliefs. The studying of attitudes of the people in society towards suicide helps in devising better suicide prevention strategies and planning early intervention measures.

Aims:

This study explores attitude toward suicide between the medical and nonmedical groups and their relationship with other sociodemographic variables.

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional comparative study was done at a tertiary care hospital in South India.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred participants belong to nonmedical and 100 belong to medical groups were assessed using Eskin’s Attitude towards Suicide Scale.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Descriptive statistical tests and independent t-tests were applied to find the significant difference in the means between the two groups using SPSS version 23.

Results:

Nonmedical group scored high in “hiding the suicidal behavior” and low in “communicating psychological problems” and vice versa in the medical group. Females scored higher on “acceptability of suicide” and “punishment after death” among the medical group.

Conclusion:

Imparting psychoeducation and promoting awareness about suicide can help change individuals’ attitudes toward suicide at the microlevel and society’s macrolevel.
A multicentric exploratory study of behavioral and psychological symptom characteristics of dementia
Authors: Umesh Shreekantiah , Goyal Nishant , Grover Sandeep , Bhattacharyya Ranjan , Menon Vikas , Mohapatra Debadatta , Mehra Aseem , Bakhla Ajay Kumar
Published: July 2022

Background:

Behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPS) are usually the expected consequences of dementia. BPS increases morbidity and burden, affects the quality of life, and impacts care costs. However, the symptom characteristics, clinical correlations, and symptom-specific clusters aiding the diagnosis are less well studied, especially in the Indian population.

Materials and Methods:

The present study examined the BPS clusters based on various cognitive and neuropsychiatric profiles in patients with dementia under a multicentric study in India. We did a cross-sectional assessment using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) and cognitive functions by Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and the severity of dementia using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scale. In addition, all of the participants were evaluated on a structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Research Version for past or current psychiatric disorder(s).

Results:

We describe the various BPS clusters uniquely associated with the severity of dementia. Further, on linear regression analysis, we predicted three symptom clusters (anxiety, irritability, aberrant motor) in mild, two symptom clusters (disinhibition, agitation/aggression) in moderate and three symptom clusters (delusion, euphoria/elation, disinhibition) in severe dementia.

Conclusion:

The study provides insights into the various symptom characteristics and inter-relationship of BPS, which may benefit the clinician while assessing patients with dementia.
SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with increased odds of insomnia, RLS and dream enactment behavior
Authors: Kumar Niraj , Goyal Abhishek , Hussain Arshad , Saini Lokesh Kumar , Chawla Omna , Arora Pankaj , Daga Ritu , Tikka Sai Krishna , Goyal Sandeep Kumar , Kanchan Shweta , Desai Soaham , Ahmed Sohaib , Das Sourav , Dubey Vaibhav , Gupta Ravi
Published: July 2022

Background:

Literature suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in poor sleep quality, especially among the infected population. However, literature regarding the effect of COVID-19 pandemic and SARS-CoV-2 infection on occurrence of insomnia, restless legs syndrome and dream enactment behavior is either scarce or unavailable.

Methods:

This study was planned to assess the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the occurrence of insomnia, restless legs syndrome (RLS) and dream enactment behavior (DEB). For this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire comprising of items related to demographic details, past medical history, and information related to SARS-CoV-2 infection was distributed through social media. Insomnia was diagnosed using clinical criteria. RLS, DEB, sleep quality, depression and anxiety were assessed using a validated questionnaire. Information regarding the use of hypnotic medications was also gathered.

Results:

Of the 1596 respondents, 37.2% reported disturbed sleep while insomnia was reported by 22.6% respondents. 27.3% of respondents reported RLS and 17.4% suffered DEB. The odds of insomnia were greater among males (OR = 1.27; 95% CI: 1.03–1.58; P < 0.02) and among those who had SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR = 1.76; 95% CI = 1.42–2.19; P < 0.001). Similarly, SARS-CoV-2 infection was also associated with increased odds of RLS (OR = 2.48; 95% CI = 1.98–3.11; P < 0.001) and DEB (OR = 1.58; 95%CI = 1.21–2.06; P < 0.001). Insomnia, RLS and DEB were more frequent among respondents who required oxygen therapy, those who experienced loss of taste and/or smell, depression and anxiety. Prevalence of insomnia, DEB and RLS was higher than said prevalence among respondents with no history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, but lower than that of those with positive history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. 5.3% of respondents reported taking hypnotic medications before infection, 7% during infection and 5.3% after infection.

Conclusion:

SARS-CoV-2-infection-related factors in association with environmental factors have increased the prevalence of insomnia, DEB and RLS among subjects having infection. SARS-CoV-2-associated immunological changes, hypoxia and neurotropism may play a role in occurrence of insomnia, DEB and RLS.
Effect of Portulaca Oleracea L. extract on functional constipation
Authors: Bang Ki Bae , Choi Jung Ho , Park Jee Hun , Lee Seong , Rho Mun-Chual , Lee Seung W. , Lee Soyoung , Shin Jeong Eun
Published: July 2022

Background:

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of P. oleracea in the management of patients with functional constipation.

Methods:

A total of 60 patients with functional constipation as defined by the Rome IV criteria were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study; 70% ethanol extracts of the aerial parts of P. oleracea were used for the intervention. Patients were randomly assigned to the P. oleracea or placebo groups. Treatment response, quality of life, and changes in colonic transit time (CTT) were evaluated.

Results:

Complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) improved significantly in the P. oleracea group compared with that in the placebo group over 8 weeks of treatment (P = 0.003). Overall Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life (PAC-QOL) and Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms (PAC-SYM) score improvements were observed in the P. oleracea group (P < 0.05). Moreover, CTT decreased from 44.5 ± 22.0 h to 33.7 ± 22.7 h in the P. oleracea group after 7 weeks of treatment (P = 0.04). There were no significant differences in the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) or adverse events between the groups.

Conclusions:

Compared to placebo, the use of P. oleracea in patients with functional constipation significantly improved CSBM, severity of symptoms, and quality of life. Further large studies are required to assess the benefits of P. oleracea in the treatment of functional constipation.
Epidemiology of myocardial infarction in Korea: hospitalization incidence, prevalence, and mortality
Authors: Kim Rock Bum , Kim Jang-Rak , Hwang Jin Yong
Published: July 2022

Few studies have comprehensively presented epidemiological indicators of myocardial infarction in Korea. However, multiple published articles and open-source secondary data on the epidemiology of myocardial infarction are now available. This review summarized the hospitalization incidence, prevalence, and mortality rate of myocardial infarction in Korea using articles and open-source data from the Health Insurance Service and the Department of Statistics, surveys of sample populations, registries of patients, and other sources. The epidemiological indicators of myocardial infarction were compared between Korea and other high-income countries. The incidence of hospitalization due to myocardial infarction in Korea was 43.2 cases per 100,000 population in 2016 and has consistently increased since 2011. It was 2.4 times higher among men than among women. The estimated prevalence among adults over 30 years of age ranged from 0.34% to 0.70% in 2020; it was higher among men and increased with age. The mortality in 2020, which was 19.3 per 100,000 population in 2020, remained relatively stable in recent years. Mortality was higher among men than among women. Based on representative inpatient registry data, the proportion of ST-elevated myocardial infarction decreased until recently, and the median time from symptom onset to hospital arrival was approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The hospitalization incidence, prevalence, and mortality rate of myocardial infarction were lower in Korea than in other countries, although there was an increasing trend. Comprehensive national-level support and surveillance systems are needed to routinely collect accurate epidemiological indicators.
Estrategias de comunicación corporativa en las franquicias de restauración. Análisis cromático de la identidad visual
Authors: López Ramón Jesús Ángel , Monserrat-Gauchi Juan M.
Published: July 2022

La presente investigación trata de determinar las interrelaciones que se dan entre la imagen corporativa utilizada por las principales cadenas de franquicia de restauración operativas en España y los colores utilizados por cada una de ellas. Se parte de la hipótesis principal de que determinados colores serán mayoritarios o predominantes en la identidad visual corporativa de estas empresas,  debido a que son los colores que mejor transmiten la actividad y filosofía de estas empresas de comida rápida por las connotaciones que poseen, según la Teoría de Color y los estudios que más adelante se abordarán sobre psicología del color.

El campo de la Identidad Visual Corporativa es muy amplio y en él operan elementos como la marca, el logotipo, el símbolo, la tipografía, el color, las distintas composiciones o versiones de la marca, la aplicación de la marca a diversos soportes, etc. Por lo que, a la hora de establecer el análisis comparativo, la presente comunicación se centra en el aspecto cromático de cada una de las enseñas analizadas operativas en el sector restauración (comida rápida) y en el mercado español, partiendo de la base de que la utilización de elementos como el color no es casual.

La metodología empleada en la presente investigación ha supuesto la selección de un sector de actividad dentro del sistema comercial de franquicia (restauración-comida rápida) y la determinación de las enseñas a analizar, seleccionando la muestra por criterios de mayor facturación y mayor número de establecimientos operativos en España. Para la presente investigación los autores se han valido de técnicas de investigación cualitativas y de fuentes secundarias. En definitiva, en esta comunicación se demuestra cómo la utilización de la identidad corporativa y, en concreto, del color es intencionada y sin duda, forma parte y está supeditada a las estrategias de comunicación corporativa definidas por la empresa.
Narrativas y portavoces del terrorismo mediatizado
Authors: Sánchez Duarte José Manuel
Published: July 2022

En este artículo distinguimos los discursos que utilizan los actores implicados en acciones terroristas (ya sea de manera activa o pasiva) y que son recogidos por los medios de comunicación. Valorando como discurso la suma de distintos argumentos que conforman una narrativa general, realizamos una aproximación teórica y una propuesta de análisis con el fin de identificar los discursos de los terroristas y de los gobiernos. En primer lugar realizamos un breve repaso de la bibliografía existente enfatizando en modelos analíticos previos. A continuación, a modo de prólogo para nuestra propuesta teórica, acotamos las definiciones de terrorismo mediatizado y marco discursivo. Para finalizar, y como eje central del artículo, exponemos las narrativas generales de los terroristas y de los gobiernos respectivamente. En resumen, abordamos terroristas e instituciones hablándose, emitiendo mensajes que reflejan el mapa de fuerzas institucionales.
Identidad editorial en la prensa nacional española: interrelación con la agenda mediática
Authors: León Gross Teodoro , Blanco Castilla Elena
Published: July 2022

La definición de la identidad de la prensa nacional requiere la evaluación de la sección editorial y, como se aborda aquí a partir de una metodología cuantitativa, la vinculación de ésta con los contenidos informativos. El análisis constata que existe una fuerte relación (4 de cada 5 editoriales conectan con una información del día) y además con relieve al deducirse porcentajes significativos de esa información de referencia en portada o primera página de sección, así como coberturas de tamaño considerable con promedios superiores a dos páginas. Este fenómeno apunta a una atenuación del modelo doctrinal de prensa.
El espejo roto: la metaficción en las series anglosajonas
Authors: García Martínez Alberto Nahum
Published: July 2022

El artículo estudia cómo, desde diversas propuestas estéticas y genéricas, una porción significativa de la serialidad televisiva anglosajona construye sus tramas rompiendo –en diversos grados– el espejo ilusionista de la ficción y reflexionando así –implícita o explícitamente– sobre las convenciones del realismo. La investigación comienza sentando las bases teóricas de la metaficción. Después, ayudado por ejemplos extraídos desde el año 2001, se traza un repaso cartográfico a sus diferentes posibilidades: la contraposición de mundos diegéticos, la presencia de un narrador que manipula el relato, la propia televisión como semilla temática para nuevas ficciones, el juego híbrido de la autoconsciencia y, por último, la apelación directa al espectador como el mayor alarde reflexivo que se permiten las series anglosajonas contemporáneas.