bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Self-Assembled Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Varma Lanke Tejesh , Singh Nidhi , Gorain Bapi , Choudhury Hira , Tambuwala Murtaza M. , Kesharwani Prashant , Shukla Rahul
Published: February 2020

The collection of different bulk materials forms the nanoparticles, where the properties of the
nanoparticle are solely different from the individual components before being ensembled. Selfassembled
nanoparticles are basically a group of complex functional units that are formed by gathering
the individual bulk components of the system. It includes micelles, polymeric nanoparticle, carbon nanotubes,
liposomes and niosomes, etc. This self-assembly has progressively heightened interest to control
the final complex structure of the nanoparticle and its associated properties. The main challenge of formulating
self-assembled nanoparticle is to improve the delivery system, bioavailability, enhance circulation
time, confer molecular targeting, controlled release, protection of the incorporated drug from external
environment and also serve as nanocarriers for macromolecules. Ultimately, these self-assembled
nanoparticles facilitate to overcome the physiological barriers in vivo. Self-assembly is an equilibrium
process where both individual and assembled components are subsisting in equilibrium. It is a bottom up
approach in which molecules are assembled spontaneously, non-covalently into a stable and welldefined
structure. There are different approaches that have been adopted in fabrication of self-assembled
nanoparticles by the researchers. The current review is enriched with strategies for nanoparticle selfassembly,
associated properties, and its application in therapy.
Mixed Oleic Acid-Erucic Acid Liposomes as a Carrier for Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Eh Suk Vicit Rizal , Chung Ivy , Misran Misni
Published: February 2020

Background:

Liposomes are mostly known to be prepared from phospholipids and lipids and have a remarkable capacity to encapsulate both lipophobic and lipophilic molecules. However, there is little research on developing fatty acid liposomes for chemotherapy.

Objective:

We have successfully prepared mixed fatty acid liposomes from two monounsaturated fatty acids, namely oleic acid and erucic acid, which stabilised by DOPEPEG2000. The Critical Vesicular Concentration (CVC) of liposomes was found to be within 0.09 to 0.21 mmol dm-3, with an average particle size of 400 nm.

Methods:

Encapsulation of various anticancer drugs such as folinic acid, methotrexate, doxorubicin, or irinotecan resulted in Encapsulation Efficiency (%EE) of up to 90%. Using a 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2- yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, the median Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) values of mixed oleic acid-erucic acid encapsulating hydrophilic drugs was remarkably reduced at the end of 24 hours of incubation with the human lung carcinoma cell line A549.

Results:

The results suggest that mixed oleic acid-erucic acid liposomes are a potential new approach to further develop as an alternative vehicle of various drugs for cancer treatment.
Synthesis of 5-amino-1-aryl-3-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbonitriles, Antifungal Activity and In Silico Analysis
Authors: Terra Luciana , Viegas Daiane de Jesus , Bernardino Alice Maria Rolim , Faria Jéssica Venância , Vegi Percilene Fazolin , de Paula Pinto Rômulo Gabriel De Miranda , dos Santos Maurício Silva , Castro Helena Carla , Abreu Paula Alvarez
Published: February 2020

Serious fungal infections are increasing worldwide and have become a great concern in the
medical field since antifungal drugs are restricted to a few drug classes. This work aims to evaluate the
antifungal activity of a series of 5-amino-1-aryl-3-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbonitriles (1a-g) and to establish
a structure-activity relationship (SAR). The synthesis of these compounds was carried out in a
single step followed by cyclization in good to excellent yields i.e. 73-94%. The chemical structures
were confirmed by melting point, IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and HRMS. These seven compounds were
submitted to the disk diffusion test against Candida spp. and the active compound was evaluated by
means of the microdilution method to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). In addition,
the stereo electronic descriptors were evaluated and pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties
were calculated to predict the potential of these compounds as a drug. All the compounds presented
good theoretical physicochemical parameters and one of them showed reasonably good antifungal
activity.
Synthesis and Characterization of Pine-cone Derived Carbon-based Solid Acid: a Green and Recoverable Catalyst for the Synthesis of Pyrano_ pyrazole, Amino-benzochromene, Amidoalkyl Naphthol and Thiazolidinedione Derivatives
Authors: Ghorbani Fatemeh , Pourmousavi Seied Ali , Kiyani Hamzeh
Published: February 2020

In this report, SO3H-functionalized Carbon nanoparticles (Pine-SO3H) with high acid density
have been synthesized by the thermal treatment of sulfuric acid with Pine-Cone as carbon-based
at 180°C in a sealed autoclave in a one-step procedure. The resulted Nanocatalyst was characterized
by FT-IR, TGA, XRD, FE-SEM and elemental analysis (EA). The result of characterization was
shown that the carbon-based acid is amorphous with polycyclic aromatic carbon sheets attached plentiful
-OH, -COOH, and -SO3H groups. The catalytic activities of Pine-SO3H was investigated in the
highly efficient synthesis of pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazole, amino-benzochromenes, amidoalkyl naphthol
and 5-arylidene-2,4-thiazolidinedione derivatives. The application of Pine-SO3H in the synthesis offers
several advantages such as simple procedure with an easy work-up, recoverable catalyst, mild
condition, eco-friendliness, excellent yields, short reaction times and use of an inexpensive catalyst.
Synthesis, Design and Biological Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Novel Mixed Metal Complexes Derived from Benzoimidazolphenylethanamine and 6-Amino-N,N-dimethyluracil
Authors: Alminderej Fahad M.
Published: February 2020

Benzoimidazolphenylethanamine (BPE) was synthesized through the condensation reaction of 1,2-phenyldiamine and L-phenylalanine. The new complexes were prepared from the reaction of 6- amino-N,N-dimethyluracil (ADU), benzoimidazolphenylethanamine and Cadmium (II), Tin (II), Copper (II) and Nickel (II) metal respectively. All new hybrid complexes were fully characterized by spectroscopic data of FTIR, UV-Visible electronic absorption, thermal analysis, X-ray powder diffraction studies and mass spectroscopy. Spectra analyses of the hybrid metal complexes showed the tetrahedral coordination of the ligands to the metal ions via the nitrogen atoms. The in vitro antibacterial activities of the hybrid complexes were assayed against four bacterial isolates namely, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus as Gram-positive bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli as Gram-negative bacteria using the agar well diffusion method. Most of the tested isolates were sensitive to most metal hybrid complexes. The drug-likeness and bioactivity properties were calculated using Molinspiration Cheminformatics software.
Glycyrrhizic Acid Derivatives as New Antiviral and Immune Modulating Agents
Authors: Baltina Lidia , Kondratenko Rimma
Published: February 2020

The search for new drugs to treat viral infections and immune deficiencies of various etiologies
is still one of the most important tasks of medicinal chemistry, pharmacy, and medicine
due to the widespread prevalence of a number of socially dangerous viral infections. This review focuses
on the chemical modification of Glycyrrhizic acid (Gl), the main component of licorice root,
which is currently a leading natural glycoside that is considered to be promising for the development
of new antiviral agents. The review presents the results of studies conducted over the past 15
years to obtain a library of Gl acid derivatives for biological studies and to search for leader compounds.
The synthesis of new biologically active derivatives and analogues (conjugates with amino
acids and dipeptides, amino sugars, licorice triterpene acids conjugates with amino sugars,
saponins and mono glycosides, and heterocyclic amides) was conducted, and their antiviral and immune
modulating properties were studied. Potent inhibitors of HIV, SARS CoV, Epstein-Barr, and
influenza A/H1N1 viruses and the stimulators of primary immune response were found among the
Gl derivatives and analogues that were produced.
The Effect of Probiotic Intervention in Ameliorating the Altered Central Nervous System Functions in Neurological Disorders: A Review
Authors: Sharma Vandana , Kaur Sandeep
Published: February 2020

There has been a significant rise in the occurrence of various neurological ailments worldwide. The need to investigate newer and safer intervention therapies with prophylactic and/or therapeutic effects is well understood. Probiotics have recently been shown to hold promise as an intervention option that warrants future work. Probiotic strains have shown beneficial treatment outcomes as evidenced in various animal and human studies. Although numerous articles have highlighted the role of gut microbiota and its cross-talk with human brain in modulating Central Nervous System (CNS) physiology and neurochemistry, the present review solely focuses on the ability of externally administered probiotic strains (that may or may not be part of the already existing gut microflora of an average human) in ameliorating the altered CNS functions in patients. The review aims at giving a comprehensive analysis of the studies performed on animals and humans and discusses the findings in different neurological and psychiatric disorders (Anxiety, Major Depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive impairmentsetc). The article also highlights different mechanisms through which the probiotic bacteria operate in improving neurologic manifestations or decreasing the incidence of neurological disorders. These underlying mechanisms include both direct as well as indirect pathways involving neural, hormonal and immunological pathways. The potential of probiotics as an important dietary modification as well as a useful intervention therapy with preventive and therapeutic value for the target population holds strong. However, future evaluation into formulation designing, selecting the best probiotic strain(s) for each specific disease and safety and tolerability aspects in patients needs to be considered.
Dynamic Analysis and Control Research of a 3-DOF Hydraulic Driven Parallel Mechanism
Authors: Zhang Bing , Jiang Saike , Jiang Ziliang , Li Jiandong , Zhou Kehong , Liu Feng
Published: February 2020

Background:

The parallel mechanism is widely used in motion simulators, parallel machine tools, medical equipment and other fields. It has advantages of high rigidity, stable structure and high carrying capacity. However, the control strategy and control method are difficult to study because of the complexity of the parallel mechanism system.

Objective:

The purpose of this paper was to verify the dynamic model of a hydraulic driven 3-DOF parallel mechanism and propose a compound control strategy to broaden the bandwidth of the control system.

Methods:

The single rigid body dynamic model of the parallel mechanism was established by the Newton Euler method. The feed forward control strategy based on joint space control with inverse kinematic was designed to improve the bandwidth and control precision. The co-simulation method based on MATLAB / SIMULINK and ADAMS was adopted to verify the dynamics and control strategy.

Results:

The bandwidth of each degree of freedom in the 3-DOF parallel mechanism was used to expand about 10Hz and the amplitude error was controlled below 5%.

Conclusion:

Based on the designed dynamic model and composite control strategy, the controlled accuracy of the parallel mechanism is improved and the bandwidth of the control system is broadened. Furthermore, the improvements can be made in aspects of control accuracy and real-time performance to compose more patents on parallel mechanisms.
Nilai budaya lokal Kee’rja Banyau sebagai pembentukan karakter kebangsaan
Authors: Fusnika Fusnika , Tyas Debora Korining
Published: February 2020

Bangsa Indonesia pada saat ini sedang mengalami krisis identitas, dengan lunturnya nilai karakter kebangsaan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperoleh gambaran secara deskriptif tentang nilai–nilai yang terkandung dalam budaya lokal Kee’rja banyau yang terdapat pada masyarakat di Desa Sungai Deras. Metode penelitian menggunakan kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus, pengumpulan data melalui observasi, wawancara, dokumentasi. Temuan penelitian menunjukkan bahwa budaya lokal yang disebut dengan istilah kee’rja banyau mengandung nilai-nilai kekeluargaan, keadilan, sukarela, tanggungjawab, sosialisasi dan persatuan dan kesatuan.---------------------------------------------------------------------------Nowadays Indonesia nation has undergone a critical identity seen from the deteriorate of its character values of nationality. This research aims to obtain the description of values found in the local culture of Kee’rja Banyau from the community of Desa Sungai Deras. The method of the research is qualitative method using case study approach. The data were collected through observation, interview, and documentation. The finding showed that the local culture so-called Kee’rja Banyau contained the values of familiarity, justice, sincerity, responsibility, socialization, and unity.
Dari terminologi ke subtansi pendidikan kewarganegaraan: Implikasi terhadap revitalisasi Pancasila
Authors: Kalidjernih Freddy K , Winarno WInarno
Published: February 2020

Artikel ini mengeksplorasi berbagai istilah (terminologi) yang berkaitan dengan praktik kewarganegaraan atau pendidikan kewarganegaraan yang digunakan di Indonesia setelah runtuhnya rezim Orde Baru. Ia berpendapat bahwa penggunaan istilah tersebut agak serampangan karena mereka kurang dibahas dan diperebutkan di kalangan akademis. Akibatnya, agak membingungkan ketika pemerintah Indonesia berniat untuk memperkenalkan kembali Pendidikan Pancasila baru-baru ini. Makalah ini menyarankan bahwa penggunaan istilah-istilah tersebut secara konsisten dan sistematis akan memungkinkan kita untuk menempatkan Pancasila secara lebih proporsional dalam “peta” Pendidikan Kewarganegaraan Indonesia (Pendidikan Kewarganegaraan, PKn).---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------practices of citizenship or civic education used in Indonesia after the demise of the New Order regime. It argues that the use of the terms has been rather haphazard because they have been less discussed and contested in academic circles.  As a result, it was rather confusing when the Indonesian government intended to re-introduce Pancasila Education recently.  This paper suggests that consistent and systematic use of such terms will enable us to locate Pancasila more proportionately in the “map” of Indonesia’s Citizenship Education (Pendidikan Kewarganegaraan, PKn).
Dampak sosialisasi empat pilar MPR RI terhadap Pendidikan Pancasila di perguruan tinggi
Authors: Hastangka Hastangka , Armawi Armaidy , Kaelan Kaelan
Published: February 2020

Penggunaan istilah empat pilar kehidupan berbangsa dan bernegara untuk program sosialisasi telah menimbulkan polemik dan perdebatan di masyarakat. Empat pilar tersebut meliputi Pancasila, UUD 1945, NKRI, dan Bhinneka Tunggal Ika yang dirumuskan oleh MPR RI. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan dampak sosialisasi Empat Pilar tersebut terhadap pendidikan Pancasila di perguruan tinggi. Data penelitian diambil dari buku, jurnal ilmiah, artikel surat kabar, dan berita di media online ataupun offline, dan dokumen yuridis, seperti peraturan perundang-undangan. Analisis data menggunakan pendekatan interpretatif, induksi-analitis, semiotik, dan analisis wacana. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa (1) sosialisasi empat pilar berdampak pada ambiguitas pemaknaan dan pemahaman baik dari peserta didik maupun dosen dalam pembelajaran Pancasila sebagai dasar atau pilar kehidupan bernegara dan berbangsa, dan (2) penggunaan istilah empat pilar telah mengacaukan pemahaman dan pengetahuan para peserta didik dalam memahami Pancasila.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The application of the term “Four Pillars of Life of the People and the Nation” in socialization creates polemic and debate in society. Those four pillars are Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, and Unity in Diversity, which formulated by the People's Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia. The objective of this research is to investigate the impact that socialization has on the education of Pancasila in a higher level of education. The research data obtained from books, scientific journals, newspaper articles, other online and offline sources, and legal documents, for instance, legislation. Interpretative, analytic-induction, semiotic, and disclosure approaches applied to the analysis. The result shows that the socialization has immense impacts on 1). The ambiguity toward the meaning and the understanding by both students and lecturers in learning Pancasila as the pillar of the life of the people and the nation, and 2).  The use of the term “four pillars” has disrupted the understanding and the knowledge of students in their comprehension toward Pancasila.
Soft skills profile of vocational school students in Yogyakarta City for entering the industrial world
Authors: Wulaningrum Tri , Hadi Samsul
Published: February 2020

This study aims to determine the profile and how much the level of soft skills of Vocational High School students in Yogyakarta City. This study is survey research. The population of this study was all students grade XI of State Vocational Schools in Yogyakarta City. The sample of this study was 990 students. The data were collected using a questionnaire. The data were then analyzed and presented in a percentage form. The results of the study present that the percentage gain shows the soft skill profile of Vocational High School students in Yogyakarta City in each aspect, namely communication/persuasion skills of 75.19%; performance management skills of 77.22%; self management skills of 70.27%; interpersonal skills of 78.68%; leadership/organizational skills of 77.85%; and cultural skills of 75.60%. Then, the level of soft skills ability of Vocational High School students in Yogyakarta City is generally categorized in medium, which is in the profile range between M-0.5SD and M + 0.5SD (M - 0.5SD x  M + 0.5SD).
The pathway of strengthening the working readiness: A study on graduate students of Islamic Economics and Business Faculty of UIN Walisongo Semarang
Authors: Fataron Zuhdan Ady , Sijabat Rauly
Published: February 2020

Research on working readiness is not a new thing. Nevertheless, studies related to working readiness still become interesting topic considering the empirical phenomena that indicate low working readiness. In addition, the results of previous studies have not provided conclusive conclusions about the factors that explain working readiness. This study was conducted to test the working readiness model developed in this study empirically by using the variable approach of training, apprenticeship, self-efficacy, and locus of control. Data on training, apprenticeship, self-efficacy, locus of control, and working readiness were obtained through interviews using a questionnaire conducted to the final semester students of the Islamic Economics and Business Faculty of UIN Walisongo Semarang. The research model testing was done by using SEM as an approach to the analysis technique. The test results show that training and apprenticeship are proven capable of explaining self-efficacy and locus of control. The results of this study also show that training, apprenticeship, self-efficacy, and locus of control are appropriate variables to explain variations in working readiness.
The level of use of information and communication technology at vocational high school
Authors: Purnamawati Purnamawati , Arfandi Anas , Nurfaeda Nurfaeda
Published: February 2020

Learning in the 4.0 era uses the concept of 4C (Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Problem Solving, Creativity, and Innovation). This concept is linear to the use of information and communication technology (ICT). Technology literacy is involved in all subjects of learning. This phenomenon triggers the teachers, the students, and the school environment to play an active role so that technological progress has meaningfulness in increasing student competence. This study aims to: (1) describe the level of the use of ICT use, (2) determine the factors that influence the use of ICT, and (3) describe the ability of teachers to use ICT in the learning process. This research is a mixed-method with a sequential explanatory strategy. The data collected use questionnaires, interviews, observations, and documentation. The results obtained: (1) the level of ICT utilization in the learning process is at level 4, which means Managed and Measurable. (2) the factors that influence the use of ICT in the learning process in Makassar City Vocational High School based on the Resiliency Maturity Assessment Framework screen components namely data application factors, and (3) the ability teachers in utilizing ICTs in the learning process at Vocational High School in Makassar City meet the criteria very well.
Real-Time Monitoring of Blood Pressure Using Digitalized Pulse Arrival Time Calculation Technology for Prompt Detection of Sudden Hypertensive Episodes During Laryngeal Microsurgery: Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Park Yong-Seok , Kim Sung-Hoon , Lee Yoon Se , Choi Seung-Ho , Ku Seung-Woo , Hwang Gyu-Sam
Published: February 2020

Background

Laryngeal microsurgery (LMS) is often accompanied by a sudden increase in blood pressure (BP) during surgery because of stimulation around the larynx. This sudden change in the hemodynamic status is not immediately reflected in a casual cuff-type measurement that takes intermittent readings every 3 to 5 min.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the potential of pulse arrival time (PAT) as a marker for a BP surge, which usually occurs in patients undergoing LMS.

Methods

Intermittent measurements of BP and electrocardiogram (ECG) and photoplethysmogram (PPG) signals were recorded during LMS. PAT was defined as the interval between the R-peak on the ECG and the maximum slope on the PPG. Mean PAT values before and after BP increase were compared. PPG-related parameters and the correlations between changes in these variables were calculated.

Results

BP surged because of laryngoscopic manipulation (mean systolic BP [SBP] from 115.3, SD 21.4 mmHg, to 159.9, SD 25.2 mmHg; P<.001), whereas PAT decreased significantly (from mean 460.6, SD 51.9 ms, to 405.8, SD 50.1 ms; P<.001) in most of the cases. The change in SBP showed a significant correlation with the inverse of the PAT (r=0.582; P<.001). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that an increase of 11.5% in the inverse of the PAT could detect a 40% increase in SBP, and the area under the curve was 0.814.

Conclusions

During LMS, where invasive arterial catheterization is not always possible, PAT shows good correlation with SBP and may, therefore, have the potential to identify abrupt BP surges during laryngoscopic manipulations in a noninvasive manner.
Impact of a Web-Based Exercise and Nutritional Education Intervention in Patients Who Are Obese With Hypertension: Randomized Wait-List Controlled Trial
Authors: Lisón Juan Francisco , Palomar Gonzalo , Mensorio Marinna S , Baños Rosa M , Cebolla-Martí Ausiàs , Botella Cristina , Benavent-Caballer Vicent , Rodilla Enrique
Published: February 2020

Background

Internet-based interventions are a promising strategy for promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors. These have a tremendous potential for delivering electronic health interventions in scalable and cost-effective ways. There is strong evidence that the use of these programs can lead to weight loss and can lower patients’ average blood pressure (BP) levels. So far, few studies have investigated the effects of internet-based programs on patients who are obese with hypertension (HTN).

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the short- and long-term efficacy, in terms of body composition and BP parameters, of a self-administered internet-based intervention involving different modules and learning techniques aimed at promoting lifestyle changes (both physical activity and healthy eating) in patients who are obese with HTN.

Methods

A randomized wait-list controlled trial design was used. We recruited 105 adults with HTN who were overweight or obese and randomly assigned them to either a 3-month internet-based intervention group (n=55) or the wait-list control group (n=50). We assessed BMI (primary outcome), body fat mass (BFM), systolic (S)BP and diastolic (D)BP, blood glucose and insulin levels, physical activity levels, and functional capacity for aerobic exercise at Time 0 (preintervention) and Time 1 (postintervention). All the patients in the wait-list control group subsequently received the intervention, and a secondary within-group analysis, which also included these participants, was conducted at Time 2 (12-month follow-up).

Results

A 2-way mixed analysis of covariance showed a significant decrease in BMI, BFM, and blood glucose at 3 months in the internet-based intervention group; the effect size for the BMI and BFM parameters was moderate to large, and there was also a borderline significant trend for DBP and insulin. These results were either maintained or improved upon at Time 2 and showed significant changes for BMI (mean difference −0.4, 95% CI −0.1 to −0.6; P=.005), BFM (mean difference −2.4, 95% CI −1.1 to −3.6; P<.001), DBP (mean difference −1.8, 95% CI −0.2 to −3.3; P=.03), and blood glucose (mean difference −2, 95% CI 0 to −4; P=.04).

Conclusions

Implementation of our self-administered internet-based intervention, which involved different learning techniques aimed to promote lifestyle changes, resulted in positive short- and long-term health benefits in patients who are obese with HTN.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03396302; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03396302
Longitudinal Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Potential Correlate in the Diagnosis of Alzheimer Disease: Exploratory Data Analysis
Authors: Khan Afreen , Zubair Swaleha
Published: February 2020

Background

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a degenerative progressive brain disorder where symptoms of dementia and cognitive impairment intensify over time. Numerous factors exist that may or may not be related to the lifestyle of a patient that result in a higher risk for AD. Diagnosing the disorder in its beginning period is important, and several techniques are used to diagnose AD. A number of studies have been conducted on the detection and diagnosis of AD. This paper reports the empirical study performed on the longitudinal-based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Open Access Series of Brain Imaging dataset. Furthermore, the study highlights several factors that influence the prediction of AD.

Objective

This study aimed to correlate the effect of various factors such as age, gender, education, and socioeconomic background of patients with the development of AD. The effect of patient-related factors on the severity of AD was assessed on the basis of MRI features, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), estimated total intracranial volume (eTIV), normalized whole brain volume (nWBV), and Atlas Scaling Factor (ASF).

Methods

In this study, we attempted to establish the role of longitudinal MRI in an exploratory data analysis (EDA) of AD patients. EDA was performed on the dataset of 150 patients for 343 MRI sessions (mean age 77.01 [SD 7.64] years). The T1-weighted MRI of each subject on a 1.5-Tesla Vision (Siemens) scanner was used for image acquisition. Scores of three features, MMSE, CDR, and ASF, were used to characterize the AD patients included in this study. We assessed the role of various features (ie, age, gender, education, socioeconomic status, MMSE, CDR, eTIV, nWBV, and ASF) on the prognosis of AD.

Results

The analysis further establishes the role of gender in the prevalence and development of AD in older people. Moreover, a considerable relationship has been observed between education and socioeconomic position on the progression of AD. Also, outliers and linearity of each feature were determined to rule out the extreme values in measuring the skewness. The differences in nWBV between CDR=0 (nondemented), CDR=0.5 (very mild dementia), and CDR=1 (mild dementia) are significant (ie, P<.01).

Conclusions

A substantial correlation has been observed between the pattern and other related features of longitudinal MRI data that can significantly assist in the diagnosis and determination of AD in older patients.
Stakeholder Perceptions of Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavior Therapy as a Treatment Option for Alcohol Misuse: Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Hadjistavropoulos Heather D , Gullickson Kirsten M , Adrian-Taylor Shelley , Wilhelms Andrew , Sundström Christopher , Nugent Marcie
Published: February 2020

Background

Internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy (ICBT) has been found to be effective for treating alcohol misuse in research trials, but it is not available as part of routine care in Canada. Recent recommendations in the literature highlight the importance of integrating perspectives from both patient and health care stakeholders when ICBT is being implemented in routine practice settings.

Objective

This study aimed to gain an understanding of how ICBT is perceived as a treatment option for alcohol misuse by interviewing diverse stakeholders. Specifically, the objectives were to (1) learn about the perceived advantages and disadvantages of ICBT for alcohol misuse and (2) elicit recommendations to inform implementation efforts in routine practice.

Methods

A total of 30 participants representing six stakeholder groups (ie, patients, family members, academic experts, frontline managers, service providers, and health care decision makers) participated in semistructured interviews. To be included in the study, stakeholders had to reside in Saskatchewan, Canada, and have personal or professional experience with alcohol misuse. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, anonymized, and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Stakeholders identified numerous advantages of ICBT for alcohol misuse (eg, accessibility, convenience, privacy, relevance to technology-based culture, and fit with stepped care) and several disadvantages (eg, lack of internet access and technological literacy, isolation, less accountability, and unfamiliarity with ICBT). Stakeholders also provided valuable insight into factors to consider when implementing ICBT for alcohol misuse in routine practice. In terms of intervention design, stakeholders recommended a 6- to 8-week guided program that uses Web-based advertising, point-of-sale marketing, and large-scale captive audiences to recruit participants. With regard to treatment content, stakeholders recommended that the program focus on harm reduction rather than abstinence; be evidence based; appeal to the diverse residents of Saskatchewan; and use language that is simple, encouraging, and nonjudgmental. Finally, in terms of population characteristics, stakeholders felt that several features of the alcohol misuse population, such as psychiatric comorbidity, readiness for change, and stigma, should be considered when developing an ICBT program for alcohol misuse.

Conclusions

Stakeholders’ insights will help maximize the acceptability, appropriateness, and adoption of ICBT for alcohol misuse and in turn contribute to implementation success. The methodology and findings from this study could be of benefit to others who are seeking to implement ICBT in routine practice.
Web-Supported Social Network Testing for HIV Among Men Who Have Sex With Men With a Migration Background: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Op de Coul Eline , den Daas Chantal , Spijker Ralph , Heijman Titia , de Vos Marvin , Götz Hannelore , Vermey Koenraad , Zuilhof Wim , Van den Boogaard Jossy , Davidovich Udi , Zuure Freke ,   PREVENT Collaborators
Published: February 2020

Background

Of newly diagnosed HIV positive men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Netherlands, 29% have a non-Western migration background (MSM-NW). Among MSM-NW, HIV positivity rates are high (0.8%-2.0%), as is the proportion of late stage infections (39%). Factors such as HIV and sexual orientation–related stigma may form barriers for timely testing. Innovative approaches for HIV testing are needed to better reach MSM-NW. Social network testing (SNT) for HIV is an evidence-supported approach where peer recruiters identify persons (network associates) who could benefit from testing in their social or sexual networks. Web-supported SNT might be particularly promising for reaching people who may not be reached by regular care.

Objective

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design of our pilot PREVENT (Peer-Empowered Voluntary Extended Network Testing). In this pilot, we will explore whether SNT using HIV self-tests is feasible and acceptable among MSM-NW in the Netherlands and whether it reaches those who were never or not recently tested for HIV (>1 year ago).

Methods

The project aims to include 50 to 60 MSM and MSM-NW peers who will distribute 4 to 5 oral HIV self-tests each aiming to reach 200 network associates (NAs). Enrollment of peers includes 4 steps: (1) fostering interest in becoming a peer by health care professionals at sexual health clinics, HIV treatment clinics, and community settings; (2) sending peer contact information to the peer coordinator; (3) registering peers and giving program instructions by the peer coordinator and referring to the Web-based training at time2test; and (4) receiving precoded HIV self-tests for distribution in the peers’ networks. NAs who receive the self-test will log in with their test package code in the time2test application for step-by-step test instructions. After testing is complete, NAs receive tailored follow-up information depending on their test result.

Results

Between January and May 2019, 10 STI clinics and 7 HIV treatment clinics started recruiting peers. Results of the PREVENT pilot are expected in December 2020.

Conclusions

This is the first Web-supported peer-driven SNT pilot using HIV self-tests in the Netherlands and one of the first in Europe. Implementation is considered successful if it reaches MSM-NW who were never or not recently tested for HIV. Additionally, it may encourage conversations within the networks about risk behavior and barriers to HIV testing, potentially contributing to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS goal of zero HIV infections.

Trial Registration

Netherlands Trial Registry NL7424; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7424

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/14743
Perspective of Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer on Electronic Access to Scan Results: Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Baun Christina , Vogsen Marianne , Nielsen Marie Konge , Høilund-Carlsen Poul Flemming , Hildebrandt Malene Grubbe
Published: February 2020

Background

Patient-accessible electronic health records give patients quick and easy access to their health care data, enabling them to view their test results online prior to a clinic visit. Hospital reports can be difficult for patients to understand, however, and can lead to unnecessary anxiety.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the attitudes and experiences of Danish patients with metastatic breast cancer in using electronic health records to view their own scan results.

Methods

We conducted a prospective mixed-methods study in a sequential design at our institution during 2018. Participants were women with metastatic breast cancer who were having scans every 3 months (combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography or computed tomography alone) to monitor treatment effects. Participants first received an online questionnaire about their knowledge and use of online access to scan results. We then conducted semistructured interviews with 4 women who used the online access to view their scan results.

Results

A total of 46 patients received the questionnaire (median age 66, SD 11.8, range 34-84 years). Of these women, 38 (83%) completed the survey (median age 69, SD 10.7, range 42-84 years). Most patients (34/38) were aware of the opportunity to access their reports online, but only 40% (15/38) used this access to read their scan results. Barriers to online access were (1) anxiety over reading the scan results in the absence of clinician support, and (2) a preference to receive all disease information at their next hospital appointment. The patients who read their scan result found that facilitators were greater transparency and empowerment, and barriers were the consequences of reading bad news, the feeling of dilemma about the access, and the medical terminology.

Conclusions

Patients with metastatic breast cancer generally had a positive attitude toward electronic access to their scan results, and those who used this opportunity played a greater participatory role in their disease and its management. Others described the potential distress this opportunity caused. The study findings suggest that immediate online access to scan results should be available to patients, but it needs a support function alongside that ensures optimal patient care.
Design and Development of a Digital Weight Management Intervention (ToDAy): Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Shoneye Charlene L , Mullan Barbara , Begley Andrea , Pollard Christina M , Jancey Jonine , Kerr Deborah A
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

The Tailored Diet and Activity (ToDAy) study aims to build on the campaign by adding a digital intervention with the potential to provide wide-reaching, cost-effective weight management support.

OBJECTIVE

The ToDAy study aims to build a tailored intervention using mobile technology to improve diet and physical activity behaviours in adults with overweight and obesity. The main objectives were to identify behavior change techniques for diet and physical activity (PA) change for weight loss and explore preferences for digital intervention features that would be effective in changing diet and PA behaviors.

METHODS

This qualitative study uses the principles of a person-based approach to intervention development; the behavioral intervention technology framework; and the capability, opportunity, motivation, and behavior (COM-B) framework. Focus groups and telephone interviews were conducted with 56 adults in Western Australia. Open-ended questions and example intervention features were used to explore the usability and acceptability of the self-monitoring tools, knowledge about effective weight-loss strategies, and acceptability of tailored feedback. Findings from the focus groups and interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Qualitative findings revealed an awareness of key public health messages but a lack of confidence in how to perform these behaviors to help manage their weight. A total of 4 major themes were identified and mapped to the domains of the COM-B framework: (1) misinformation, (2) environmental support, (3) social norms, and (4) confidence.

CONCLUSIONS

This study explores users’ capability, opportunity, and motivation to perform the target behaviors for weight loss. The findings suggested that a digital weight management intervention using a mobile food record and activity trackers to inform tailored feedback may be acceptable and feasible. Participants expressed a preference for simple expert advice, digital self-monitoring tools, and visual feedback.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/12782
The Impact of a Smartphone App on the Quality of Pediatric Colonoscopy Preparations: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Brief James , Chawla Anupama , Lerner Diana , Vitola Bernadette , Woroniecki Robert , Morganstern Jeffrey
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Smartphone apps have been successfully used to help adults prepare for colonoscopies. However, no study to date has investigated the effect of a smartphone app on pediatric colonoscopy preparation.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine if an app (SB Colonoscopy Prep) designed to educate and guide patients through their colonoscopy preparation will yield benefits over paper-based instructions and information.

METHODS

In total, 46 patients aged 5-18 years received either app-based or written material with instructions on how to take their prep medications as well as information about the colonoscopy procedure. Prep quality, the number of calls to the gastroenterology service, and patient arrival time were recorded. After the procedure, a questionnaire was given to each patient through which they graded their knowledge of the procedure both before and after receiving the app or written material.

RESULTS

App users had higher mean Boston scores versus control subjects receiving written instructions (7.2 vs 5.9, P=.02), indicating better colonoscopy preps. In total, 75% (15/20) of app users and 41% (9/22) of written instruction users had preps categorized as “excellent” on the Boston scale. We found no significant differences in knowledge about the procedure (app users: 10/20 [50%], written instruction users 8/22 [36%]; P=.37), phone calls to the gastroenterology clinic (n=6 vs n=2; P=.27), or arrival times at the endoscopy suite (44 min vs 46 min before the scheduled procedure time; P=.56).

CONCLUSIONS

Smartphone app use was associated with an increased number of colonoscopy preps classified as “excellent” on the Boston scale. There was no significant difference between app users and the control group regarding the number of calls to the gastroenterology clinic, patient arrival time, or patient knowledge about the procedure.
Application of Brain-Based Teaching Strategies on Academic Performance of Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) In Mathematics
Authors: A. Ayantoye Catherine , O. Olaoluwa Samuel , Caballero Mari , Ezell Sonja , Hixson Kelly O’Neal
Published: February 2020

This study examined application of Brain-based Teaching Strategies on academic performance of children with ADHD in Mathematics. Gender and Mathematics anxiety level were introduced as moderator variables. A pre-test, post-test, control group experimental design was employed for this study. Two groups were involved (experimental and control groups). The experimental group was exposed to the application of Brain-based Teaching Strategies while the control group was exposed to the conventional method. Two instruments were used (i) Achievement Test in Mathematics (ATM) (r = 0.83) and (ii) Mathematics Anxiety Rating Scale (MARS) (r = 0.80). Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics of means scores and standard deviations to explain and compare pretest and posttest mean scores of the experimental and control groups in all the criteria measured. Inferential statistics of Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the hypotheses and estimate the impacts of various factors on the dependent variables. Treatment was more effective at improving children with ADHD attitude to mathematics than the conventional method. Findings indicated significant improvement on children’s attention span resulting from taking cognizance of “prime times” in the teaching-learning episode. Also, tension that is normally associated with the teaching-learning process of mathematics was significantly reduced.
El arte de títeres en América Latina: un reservorio cultural
Authors: Coss Soto María Griselda
Published: February 2020

El arte de títeres en América Latina: un reservorio cultural. En este artículo propongo un ejercicio teórico desde los estudios latinoamericanos sobre el arte de títeres, retomando a los monos de calenda o “gigantes” de Oaxaca, México, dentro de su contexto socio-cultural actual, para revisar algunos de sus aspectos sociales, estéticos, simbólicos y rituales, desde una interpretación hermenéutica y un enfoque en el arte de los títeres. Y mostrar mediante este “escenario fantástico”, cómo es que este arte marginado sigue vigente como un artefacto cultural que se convierte, incluso, en un elemento de identidad, revitalizando la cultura y las tradiciones de Oaxaca, México.
Cuba y la Ley Helms-Burton. El pasado presente
Authors: Domínguez Guadarrama Ricardo
Published: February 2020

El gobierno de Estados Unidos, encabezado por Donald Trump, puso en vigor, por primera vez desde 1996, el Titulo III de la Ley Helms-Burton, que permite a los estadounidenses, incluidos los de origen cubano, reclamar ante juzgados de Estados Unidos la confiscación de sus bienes en Cuba a partir de 1959. Los daños que podría causar la medida a la economía y viabilidad del modelo cubano, son catastróficos. No obstante, la Ley y los posibles juicios son a todas luces violatorios del derecho internacional y un desafío a los aliados occidentales de Washington, toda vez que diversos países europeos, así como Canadá y México tienen intereses invertidos en la Isla y otras tantas naciones mantienen relaciones económicas, comerciales y financieras con La Habana, que se ven obstaculizadas por la política de bloqueo que mantiene Estados Unidos contra Cuba desde febrero de 1962 y que la Ley Helms-Burton agudiza.
El exilio libertario español y su impacto en la conformación de la Federación Anarquista Mexicana y el grupo Tierra y Libertad
Authors: Rodríguez Trejo Eduardo Daniel
Published: February 2020

Este artículo analiza la relación entre los anarquistas mexicanos y españoles una vez que la república española fue derrotada. Se aborda el momento fundacional de la Federación Anarquista Mexicana, espacio compartido por ácratas nativos e hispanos. Además, se evidencian las confrontaciones y disputas en el seno del movimiento libertario, situación concomitante con el surgimiento del grupo Tierra y Libertad, núcleo nacido en 1944 para, por un lado, sortear las dificultades impuestas a los extranjeros por la legislación mexicana; por otro, eludir las querellas intestinas del anarquismo; y, por último, elaborar nuevas estrategias y prácticas discursivas para divulgar sus principios.

 
Religiusitas dan Pengaruh Faktor Demografi Terhadap Kepatuhan Dalam Berzakat
Authors: Ivalaili Ivalaili
Published: February 2020

Zakat is one of the essential instruments in increasing community welfare as well as enhancing economic growth. To optimize potential zakat in Indonesia, it needs the involvement of various related parties both government and zakat institution and participation of muzakki as well. Based on the previous study it is known that external and internal factors influencing people compliance to pay zakat, external factors could be arisen from the environment, organization/ zakat institution and the obligation, while internal factors could come from religious factors, such as faith, altruism, demographic factors and social awareness. Aim of this study is to examine the influence of religiosity, and demographic factors on zakat. The questionnaire was distributed to 300 muzakki in Kota Tangerang. The findings show that religiosity had significantly related to zakat compliance. Demographic factors in this case gender and educational background have no significant influence on zakat compliance but give a positive effect, while the level of income have both positive impacts and significantly influence on zakat compliance