bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Curcumin on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Expression in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Radbakhsh Shabnam , Butler Alexandra E. , Moallem Seyed Adel , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2023

:

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a crucial molecule implicated
in plastic modifications related to learning and memory. The expression of BDNF is highly
regulated, which can lead to significant variability in BDNF levels in healthy subjects.
Changes in BDNF expression might be associated with neuropsychiatric diseases, particularly
in structures important for memory processes, including the hippocampus and
parahippocampal areas. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound that has great potential
for the prevention and treatment of age-related disorders by regulating and activating
the expression of neural protective proteins such as BDNF. This review discusses and
analyzes the available scientific literature on the effects of curcumin on BDNF production
and function in both in vitro and in vivo models of disease.
Advances in Pyrazoles Rings’ Syntheses by Heterogeneous Catalysts, Ionic Liquids,
and Multicomponent Reactions - A Review
Authors: Medjahed Nassima , Kibou Zahira , Berrichi Amina , Choukchou-Braham Noureddine
Published: June 2023

Nitrogen heterocycles represent one of the most important units in modern organic
chemistry besides their wide existence broadly in natural products, pharmaceuticals, and
functional materials. Among these heterocycles, pyrazole, the molecule of the present work,
received much attention in organic synthesis because it delivers significant therapeutic and
biological values as it was found to be the core unit of many drugs, agrochemicals, and related
candidates. Due to this fact, the development of practical methodologies for the preparation
of pyrazoles has attracted the long-standing interest of synthetic chemists. Synthetic heterocyclic
chemistry using green methods has captivated many researchers in the recent past
due to its easy operation and environmentally friendliness. In this review, we summarized
systematic approaches for the synthesis of pyrazole derivatives via heterogeneous catalysis,
ionic liquid catalysis, and multicomponent reactions.
Green Extracts with Metal-based Nanoparticles for Treating Inflammatory Diseases: A Review
Authors: Singh Sonia , Sharma Khushi , Sharma Himanshu
Published: June 2023

Globally, high death rates and poor quality of life are caused mainly by inflammatory diseases. Corticosteroids, which may have systemic side effects and would enhance the risk of infection, are the common forms of therapy. The field of nanomedicine has created composite nanoparticles that carry a pharmacological carrier and target ligands for distribution to sites of inflammation with less systemic toxicity. However, their relatively large size often causes systemic clearance. An interesting approach is metal-based nanoparticles that naturally reduce inflammation. They are made not only to be small enough to pass through biological barriers but also to allow label-free monitoring of their interactions with cells. The following literature review discusses the mechanistic analysis of the anti-inflammatory properties of several metal-based nanoparticles, including gold, silver, titanium dioxide, selenium, and zinc oxide. Current research focuses on the mechanisms by which nanoparticles infiltrate cells and the anti-inflammatory techniques using herbal extracts-based nanoparticles. Additionally, it provides a brief overview of the literature on many environmentally friendly sources employed in nanoparticle production and the mechanisms of action of various nanoparticles.
Structure-guided Development of Novel Benzothiophene Derivatives as PLK1-PBD Inhibitors
Authors: Huang Daowei , Zhang Jing , Yang Xiaocong , Tan Xiangduan , Chai Tingting , Ma Lindeng , Zhao Bingyang , Chen Ying , Yang Jixia , Zhang Yue
Published: June 2023

Background:

Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), a validated target for tumor therapy, plays a key role
in mitosis and is over-expressed in many tumors. In addition to its N-terminal kinase domain, PLk1 also
harbors a C-terminal polo-box domain (PBD).

Objective:

A candidate based on PLK1-PBD was developed as a promising compound for future development.

Methods:

Seventeen small molecule PLK1-PBD inhibitors were designed, synthesized and evaluated for
PLK1-PBD inhibitory activities by fluorescence polarization (FP) assay. The compounds with better inhibitory
activities were further assessed for their anti-proliferative activities using a CCK-8 method.

Results:

The inhibitory rates of compounds 7a, 7d, 14a, 14d, 14e and 14f exceeded 98%. The IC50 values
of compounds 7d, 14d, 14e, and 14f were 0.73 μM, 0.67 μM, 0.89 μM and 0.26 μM, proving better than
MCC1019. Compound 14f showed the best inhibitory activity (IC50: 0.26 μM) and antiproliferative activities
against three cancer cell lines (HeLa, HepG2 and MG63). Especially, compound 14f also exhibited
acceptable safety profiles in the human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) and normal cell tests. The
results of docking and prediction studies indicated that compound 14f had a high binding affinity to the
target, with good drug-like absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, and toxicity (ADMET)
properties.

Conclusion:

Compound 14f can be a promising compound for future development.
Associations between HbA1c Reduction and Change in Depressive
Symptoms following Glucose-lowering Treatment in Adults: A Systematic
Review of Intervention Studies
Authors: Schmitt Andreas , Beran Magdalena , Geraets Anouk , Iversen Marjolein M. , Nefs Giesje , Nouwen Arie , Pouwer Frans , Huber Jörg W. , Schram Miranda T.
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Hyperglycemia constitutes a likely pathway linking diabetes and depressive symptoms;
lowering glycemic levels may help reduce diabetes-comorbid depressive symptoms. Since randomized
controlled trials can help understand temporal associations, we systematically reviewed the evidence regarding
the potential association of hemoglobin HbA1c lowering interventions with depressive symptoms.

Methods:

PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and EMBASE databases were searched for randomized controlled
trials evaluating HbA1c-lowering interventions and including assessment of depressive symptoms published
between 01/2000–09/2020. Study quality was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. PROSPERO registration:
CRD42020215541.

Results:

We retrieved 1,642 studies of which twelve met our inclusion criteria. Nine studies had high and three
unclear risks of bias. Baseline depressive symptom scores suggest elevated depressive symptoms in five studies.
Baseline HbA1c was <8.0% (<64mmol/mol) in two, 8.0–9.0% (64–75mmol/mol) in eight, and ≥10.0%
(≥86mmol/mol) in two studies. Five studies found greater HbA1c reduction in the treatment group; three of
these found greater depressive symptom reduction in the treatment group. Of four studies analyzing whether the
change in HbA1c was associated with the change in depressive symptoms, none found a significant association.
The main limitation of these studies was relatively low levels of depressive symptoms at baseline, limiting the
ability to show a lowering in depressive symptoms after HbA1c reduction.

Conclusions:

We found insufficient available data to estimate the association between HbA1c reduction and
depressive symptom change following glucose-lowering treatment. Our findings point to an important gap in
the diabetes treatment literature. Future clinical trials testing interventions to improve glycemic outcomes might
consider measuring depressive symptoms as an outcome to enable analyses of this association.
An Insight into the Potential of Flavonoids and Furanocoumarins in the Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Singh Aanchal , Srivastava Nimisha
Published: June 2023

Psoriasis is a hereditary, immune-mediated illness that can affect the skin, joints, or both. The condition frequently requires the treatment of a wide group of specialists with a variety of specialties. Numerous difficulties are presented by psoriasis, such as its high prevalence, chronicity, disfigurement, disability, and related comorbidities. Natural treatment of psoriasis can be provided by flavonoids and furanocoumarins. Flavonoids, a group of chemical compounds with various phenolic structures, are found in a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, bark, roots, stems, flowers, tea, and wine. The health benefits of these natural compounds are well known, and efforts are being made to extract the components known as flavonoids. Furanocoumarin is a subgroup of coumarins with phenolic compounds. It can be divided into two groups: linear generic name psoralens, which include psoralen, xanthotoxin, and bergapten, and angular generic name angelicins, which include sphondin and pimpinellin. The most important plant source is psoralen, which has been used for generations in traditional medicine to treat psoriasis and vitiligo. The creation of alternative psoralen molecules that do not generate the bifunctional adducts that serve as the foundation for DNA crosslinking is one of the future directions for further improving psoriasis treatment. This article focuses on flavonoid and furanocoumarin research and development trends, modes of action, functions, and applications.
Anti-viral Application of Ganoderma lucidum in COVID-19
Authors: Shakeri Fatemeh , Babavalian Hamid , Moghimi Hamid , Afsharian Mahsa Pahlevan , Alipashazadeh Aida , Izadi Sahar Zuhuriyan
Published: June 2023

Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi), a common medicinal fungus, has been utilized in China since ancient times for health promotion and longevity. It has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antitumor, antioxidant, and antiallergic activities. The antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects of this mushroom have shown promising impacts in the treatment of some viral diseases. COVID-19 is a life-threatening disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has recently been pandemic. Modern medicines have not been very efficient in the direct treatment of these viral infections, and although vaccination is effective in preventing viral infections, the incidence of acute respiratory infection can be reduced only slightly. Thus, alternative therapies are required, and in this regard, stimulating the immune system can be an effective way to prevent these infections. This study reports the potential of natural fungus-derived compounds that can possibly be used to fight SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Inventario florístico del Área Natural Protegida Parque Nacional El Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México
Authors: De Nova Arturo , Enríquez-Salaices-Valdez Estrella , Castillo Lara Pedro , Cilia-López Virginia Gabriela , Yañez-Espinosa Laura , Gudiño-Cano Ana Karem , Vázquez-Mendoza Sadoth
Published: June 2023

Antecedentes y Objetivos: México presenta gran diversidad de flora vascular dada su conformación geográfica, orográfica y climática. Sin embargo, muchos sitios tienen inventarios florísticos incompletos o inexistentes. Es el caso del Área Natural Protegida Parque Nacional El Potosí que, a pesar de ser establecido en 1936, carece de un inventario actualizado de su flora vascular. El objetivo de este trabajo fue generar dicho inventario como un referente de los bosques templados en la Sierra Madre Oriental. Se resaltan las especies endémicas para México, para el estado de San Luis Potosí y regiones adyacentes, así como aquellas que se encuentran en alguna categoría de riesgo. Métodos: Se condujeron recolectas botánicas en un gradiente de 1800 a 2390 m s.n.m., entre junio 2017 y septiembre 2018. Además, se tomaron datos sobre el hábitat, fenología y forma de crecimiento, y se comparó el índice de biodiversidad taxonómica del área de estudio respecto a otras regiones con bosques templados en el estado de San Luis Potosí. Resultados clave: Se registran 354 especies de plantas vasculares en 228 géneros de 83 familias. Las familias con mayor riqueza de especies son Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Fagaceae, Lamiaceae y Polypodiaceae. La biodiversidad taxonómica del área es similar a la reportada en otras regiones con bosques templados en San Luis Potosí. El área incluye 99 especies endémicas de México, seis exclusivas de San Luis Potosí y zonas adyacentes, además de seis especies bajo alguna categoría de riesgo según la NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, 16 dentro de los apéndices de la CITES y 14 en alguna categoría de riesgo en la Lista Roja de la IUCN. Conclusiones: La riqueza de especies, su endemismo y diversidad, además de la presencia de especies amenazadas, resaltan la importancia que tiene el Parque Nacional El Potosí como región prioritaria para la conservación de los bosques templados en la Sierra Madre Oriental.
Metanarration of Islamophobia through Houellebecq's Soumission
Authors: Artanti Yeni
Published: June 2023

The persistent conflict resulting from distinctions in our diverse world are sustained by suspicion and fear in public life, yet cultural products offer insights into societal issues, highlighting the significance of mutual respect and authentic freedom. This study examined Soumission (2015) by Houellebecq as its main data source to trace Islam and deconstruct intertextually its misconceptions in the novel. This study uses qualitative research steps in literary studies, namely by reading many times data sources, making notes, grouping data thematically, and analyzing it inductively. Results showed that in this novel, Islam is portrayed as a threatening, frightening, ambiguous religion that favors a patriarchal system that places women in a subordinate position. Based on an examination of the Quran and Hadith of Islam reveals that Islam is a peaceful religion that respects its adherents and provides them with clear instructions on what is right and wrong, prohibited and permitted. Critical readers have the right to question the portrayal of Islam in this work if it aims to ridicule religious individuals, particularly Muslims, necessitating a prudent response to counter the author's deception. Keywords: déconstruction, laïcité, metanarration, politique, satire
Синтез порошка карбида гафния в атмосферной дуговой плазме
Authors: Васильева Ю.З. , Поваляев П.В. , Корчагина А.П. , Янковский С.А. , Пак А.Я.
Published: June 2023

The paper presents a method, implemented for the first time, for the thermal synthesis of hafnium carbide powder using a DC arc discharge initiated in the open-air atmosphere. Based on the results of the series of experiments, the dependences of the current strength of the power source and the time of thermal treatment on the phase composition of the resulting powder product were established. Required parameters have been determined to ensure the synthesis of a powder containing ~ 98 wt. % of the cubic phase of hafnium carbide: heat treatment of the initial mixture containing the stoichiometric ratio of hafnium to carbon for 60 s at a current of 220 A. The size, shape, and substructure of particles of the synthesized carbide are characterized. The differential thermal analysis carried out in an oxidizing medium showed that the obtained hafnium carbide powder is oxidized most intensively at a temperature of ~700°C.
Association of Depressive Symptom Trajectory With Physical Activity Collected by mHealth Devices in the Electronic Framingham Heart Study: Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Xuzhi , Pathiravasan Chathurangi H , Zhang Yuankai , Trinquart Ludovic , Borrelli Belinda , Spartano Nicole L , Lin Honghuang , Nowak Christopher , Kheterpal Vik , Benjamin Emelia J , McManus David D , Murabito Joanne M , Liu Chunyu
Published: June 2023

Background

Few studies have examined the association between depressive symptom trajectories and physical activity collected by mobile health (mHealth) devices.

Objective

We aimed to investigate if antecedent depressive symptom trajectories predict subsequent physical activity among participants in the electronic Framingham Heart Study (eFHS).

Methods

We performed group-based multi-trajectory modeling to construct depressive symptom trajectory groups using both depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression [CES-D] scores) and antidepressant medication use in eFHS participants who attended 3 Framingham Heart Study research exams over 14 years. At the third exam, eFHS participants were instructed to use a smartphone app for submitting physical activity index (PAI) surveys. In addition, they were provided with a study smartwatch to track their daily step counts. We performed linear mixed models to examine the association between depressive symptom trajectories and physical activity including app-based PAI and smartwatch-collected step counts over a 1-year follow-up adjusting for age, sex, wear hour, BMI, smoking status, and other health variables.

Results

We identified 3 depressive symptom trajectory groups from 722 eFHS participants (mean age 53, SD 8.5 years; n=432, 60% women). The low symptom group (n=570; mean follow-up 287, SD 109 days) consisted of participants with consistently low CES-D scores, and a small proportion reported antidepressant use. The moderate symptom group (n=71; mean follow-up 280, SD 118 days) included participants with intermediate CES-D scores, who showed the highest and increasing likelihood of reporting antidepressant use across 3 exams. The high symptom group (n=81; mean follow-up 252, SD 116 days) comprised participants with the highest CES-D scores, and the proportion of antidepressant use fell between the other 2 groups. Compared to the low symptom group, the high symptom group had decreased PAI (mean difference –1.09, 95% CI –2.16 to –0.01) and the moderate symptom group walked fewer daily steps (823 fewer, 95% CI –1421 to –226) during the 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Antecedent depressive symptoms or antidepressant medication use was associated with lower subsequent physical activity collected by mHealth devices in eFHS. Future investigation of interventions to improve mood including via mHealth technologies to help promote people’s daily physical activity is needed.
Decision of the Optimal Rank of a Nonnegative Matrix Factorization Model for Gene Expression Data Sets Utilizing the Unit Invariant Knee Method: Development and Evaluation of the Elbow Method for Rank Selection (Preprint)
Authors: Guven Emine
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

There is a great need to develop a computational approach to analyze and exploit the information contained in gene expression data. The recent utilization of nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) in computational biology has demonstrated the capability to derive essential details from a high amount of data in particular gene expression microarrays. A common problem in NMF is finding the proper number rank (r) of factors of the degraded demonstration, but no agreement exists on which technique is most appropriate to utilize for this purpose. Thus, various techniques have been suggested to select the optimal value of rank factorization (r).

OBJECTIVE

In this work, a new metric for rank selection is proposed based on the elbow method, which was methodically compared against the cophenetic metric.

METHODS

To decide the optimum number rank (r), this study focused on the unit invariant knee (UIK) method of the NMF on gene expression data sets. Since the UIK method requires an extremum distance estimator that is eventually employed for inflection and identification of a knee point, the proposed method finds the first inflection point of the curvature of the residual sum of squares of the proposed algorithms using the UIK method on gene expression data sets as a target matrix.

RESULTS

Computation was conducted for the UIK task using gene expression data of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia samples. Consequently, the distinct results of NMF were subjected to comparison on different algorithms. The proposed UIK method is easy to perform, fast, free of a priori rank value input, and does not require initial parameters that significantly influence the model’s functionality.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that the elbow method provides a credible prediction for both gene expression data and for precisely estimating simulated mutational processes data with known dimensions. The proposed UIK method is faster than conventional methods, including metrics utilizing the consensus matrix as a criterion for rank selection, while achieving significantly better computational efficiency without visual inspection on the curvatives. Finally, the suggested rank tuning method based on the elbow method for gene expression data is arguably theoretically superior to the cophenetic measure.
Using Virtual Reality Head-Mounted Displays to Assess Skills in Emergency Medicine: Validity Study (Preprint)
Authors: Knudsen Marie Høxbro , Breindahl Niklas , Dalsgaard Tor-Salve , Isbye Dan , Mølbak Anne Grethe , Tiwald Gerhard , Svendsen Morten Bo Søndergaard , Konge Lars , Bergström Joanna , Todsen Tobias
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Many junior doctors must prepare to manage acutely ill patients in the emergency department. The setting is often stressful, and urgent treatment decisions are needed. Overlooking symptoms and making wrong choices may lead to substantial patient morbidity or death, and it is essential to ensure that junior doctors are competent. Virtual reality (VR) software can provide standardized and unbiased assessment, but solid validity evidence is necessary before implementation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to gather validity evidence for using 360-degree VR videos with integrated multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to assess emergency medicine skills.

METHODS

Five full-scale emergency medicine scenarios were recorded with a 360-degree video camera, and MCQs were integrated into the scenarios to be played in a head-mounted display. We invited 3 groups of medical students with different experience levels to participate: first- to third-year medical students (novice group), last-year medical students without emergency medicine training (intermediate group), and last-year medical students with completed emergency medicine training (experienced group). Each participant’s total test score was calculated based on the number of correct MCQ answers (maximum score of 28), and the groups’ mean scores were compared. The participants rated their experienced presence in emergency scenarios using the Igroup Presence Questionnaire (IPQ) and their cognitive workload with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX).

RESULTS

We included 61 medical students from December 2020 to December 2021. The experienced group had significantly higher mean scores than the intermediate group (23 vs 20; P=.04), and the intermediate group had significantly higher scores than the novice group (20 vs 14; P<.001). The contrasting groups’ standard-setting method established a pass-or-fail score of 19 points (68% of the maximum possible score of 28). Interscenario reliability was high, with a Cronbach α of 0.82. The participants experienced the VR scenarios with a high degree of presence with an IPQ score of 5.83 (on a scale from 1-7), and the task was shown to be mentally demanding with a NASA-TLX score of 13.30 (on a scale from 1-21).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides validity evidence to support using 360-degree VR scenarios to assess emergency medicine skills. The students evaluated the VR experience as mentally demanding with a high degree of presence, suggesting that VR is a promising new technology for emergency medicine skills assessment.
Electroacupuncture for chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction in colorectal cancer: protocol for a 3-arm multi-center RCT (Preprint)
Authors: Xu Tao , Chen Zi-Wen , Yin Zi-Han , Wang Lin-Jia , Sun Ming-Sheng , Shu Yun-Jie , Zhou Xue-Li , Hu Bin-Yu , Li Qiu-Yue , Yan Wan-Lin , Zhao Ling , Liang Fan-Rong
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the world, and chemotherapy is still the mainstay of treatment for CRC. However, gastrointestinal dysfunction is the major side effect of colorectal cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Numerous studies have reported that acupuncture can improve gastrointestinal dysfunction such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation after chemotherapy. Nevertheless, the efficacy of acupuncture treatment for chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction for colorectal cancer remain unclear. This trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture in alleviating gastrointestinal dysfunction after chemotherapy for CRC.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine if acupuncture at acupoints, compared with non-acupoint or no acupuncture treatment (patients on the waiting list), can improve GI dysfunction induced by chemotherapy in CRC patients.

METHODS

This is a 3-arm multi-center, randomized controlled study. A total of 231 CRC patients with gastrointestinal dysfunction after chemotherapy will be included in this study. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to 3 groups: the electroacupuncture group (EA), the sham electroacupuncture group (SEA), and the conventional treatment group (CT). Each eligible participant will go through baseline of 0-day, treatment of 3-day and follow-up of 7-day. Patients in the EA and SEA groups will receive 3 times of acupuncture/sham acupuncture treatment during the treatment phase. The Gastrointestinal symptom rating scale will serve as the primary endpoint. The secondary outcomes will include the Patient Self-Reported Outcomes, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal (V4.0), Zung's Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Zung's Self-Rating Depression Scale. All assessments will carried out at baseline, after the 3-day intervention or observation period and after completing 7-day follow-up.

RESULTS

Not applicable

CONCLUSIONS

This study will evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture on gastrointestinal dysfunction after chemotherapy in colorectal cancer patients.

CLINICALTRIAL

ChiCTR2200062317
Evaluation of mHealth Applications for Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea in Saudi Arabia: a quality review and content analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Alwhaibi Reem M , Alrwaily Halla H , Aljaloud Fadiah A , AlOfaisan Sarah A , AlSutami Norah F , AlEssa Haneen M , Alessa Faisal M , Khan Ruqaiyah , Alahmadi Tahani J
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Primary dysmenorrhea (PD), common in women below 25 years, occurs as a pain in the absence of any identifiable pathology at the pelvis. Menstrual tracking applications (MTAs) may help women in managing their PD symptoms. No systematic assessment has been performed on MTA quality with respect to physical therapy management exercise description.

OBJECTIVE

: This study evaluated the quality of MTAs available in Saudi Arabia for mobile users in both the App Store and Google Play Store and also assessed the quality of exercise content provided as an intervention for management of PD symptoms.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, apps were collected from the App Store and Google Play Store using two strategies for each store independently i.e., Scraper and SimilarWeb. The app quality was evaluated using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS), and the exercise content was evaluated based on the recommended Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type (FITT) principles.

RESULTS

Final evaluation included 16 apps, of which 87.5% required subscription. The mean app quality score ranged from 2.54 (worst-rated app) to 4.45 (best-rated app) with a mean score of 3.54±0.58. In addition, only 3 apps provided all FITT components in the exercise content.

CONCLUSIONS

All apps included in this study had low engagement scores and only three of them covered all FITT principles. This study encourages the app developers to work with health care professionals, especially physical therapists, to address exercise management methods accurately and comprehensively.
Mobile Phone Text Messages to Support People to Stop Smoking by Switching to Vaping: Codevelopment, Coproduction, and Initial Testing Study (Preprint)
Authors: Sideropoulos Vassilis , Vangeli Eleni , Naughton Felix , Cox Sharon , Frings Daniel , Notley Caitlin , Brown Jamie , Kimber Catherine , Dawkins Lynne
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

SMS text messages are affordable, scalable, and effective smoking cessation interventions. However, there is little research on SMS text message interventions specifically designed to support people who smoke to quit by switching to vaping.

OBJECTIVE

Over 3 phases, with vapers and smokers, we codeveloped and coproduced a mobile phone SMS text message program. The coproduction paradigm allowed us to collaborate with researchers and the community to develop a more relevant, acceptable, and equitable SMS text message program.

METHODS

In phase 1, we engaged people who vape via Twitter and received 167 responses to our request to write SMS text messages for people who wish to quit smoking by switching to vaping. We screened, adjusted, refined, and themed the messages, resulting in a set of 95 that were mapped against the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation–Behavior constructs. In phase 2, we evaluated the 95 messages from phase 1 via a web survey where participants (66/202, 32.7% woman) rated up to 20 messages on 7-point Likert scales on 9 constructs: being understandable, clear, believable, helpful, interesting, inoffensive, positive, and enthusiastic and how happy they would be to receive the messages. In phase 3, we implemented the final set of SMS text messages as part of a larger randomized optimization trial, in which 603 participants (mean age 38.33, SD 12.88 years; n=369, 61.2% woman) received SMS text message support and then rated their usefulness and frequency and provided free-text comments at the 12-week follow-up.

RESULTS

For phase 2, means and SDs were calculated for each message across the 9 constructs. Those with means below the neutral anchor of 4 or with unfavorable comments were discussed with vapers and further refined or removed. This resulted in a final set of 78 that were mapped against early, mid-, or late stages of quitting to create an order for the messages. For phase 3, a total of 38.5% (232/603) of the participants provided ratings at the 12-week follow-up. In total, 69.8% (162/232) reported that the SMS text messages had been useful, and a significant association between quit rates and usefulness ratings was found (χ21=9.6; P=.002). A content analysis of free-text comments revealed that the 2 most common positive themes were helpful (13/47, 28%) and encouraging (6/47, 13%) and the 2 most common negative themes were too frequent (9/47, 19%) and annoying (4/47, 9%).

CONCLUSIONS

In this paper, we describe the initial coproduction and codevelopment of a set of SMS text messages to help smokers stop smoking by transitioning to vaping. We encourage researchers to use, further develop, and evaluate the set of SMS text messages and adapt it to target populations and relevant contexts.
Federalism and the Paramountcy Doctrine
Authors: Hartery Jesse
Published: June 2023

Federal systems require individuals to comply with laws enacted by more than one order of government. At times, the laws enacted by each order may overlap, and different approaches have been adopted to deal with this situation. In Canada, this is done through the paramountcy doctrine, which permits a court to render a law inoperative when faced with two valid but conflicting laws adopted by different orders of government. However, despite being a staple of constitutional law for over a century, the paramountcy doctrine has been the subject of important doctrinal fluctuations over the years. For the time being, the doctrine includes a narrow branch known as the operational conflict branch and a broader — and sometimes controversial — branch known as the federal purpose branch. In its 2015 trilogy on the subject, the Supreme Court of Canada clarified the precise parameters of the doctrine while also noting in obiter that further doctrinal change may be on the horizon.
The potency of kitolod leaves (Hipobroma longiflora) as traditional medicine for conjunctivitis during the COVID-19 pandemic: a brief review
Authors: Yuliana  , Ni Made Ersi Dwitami Barsua  , Made Wulan Virgioni Putri  , I Nyoman Satya Mahayana Putra
Published: June 2023

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, most activities have transformed into digital ones, including computer usage. The digital screen on the computer has blue light radiation which can activate inflammatory cytokines of the eye surface and cause various disorders including includes conjunctivitis. Kitolod leaves (Hippobroma longiflora) have been used traditionally to treat conjunctivitis. This paper aimed to describe the potency of kitolod leaves for conjunctivitis. This is a narrative literature review using publications gathering from PubMed and Google Scholar published since 2013 with exclusion criteria were the animal studies. The keywords of COVID-19 pandemic, blue light, conjunctivitis, H. longiflora, traditional therapy were used. Boolean logic "AND" was used to find specific international scientific publications in PubMed. Forty selected publications were gathered, summarized and then narrated. The kitolod leaves contains bioactive substances i.e. flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins which can inhibit S. aureus growth as the main cause of conjunctivitis. The mechanism of antibacterial of these bioactive substances through inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis, disruption of cytoplasmic membrane function, and inhibition of energy formation process. Kitolod leaves is potential to develop as traditional medicine for conjunctivitis. However, further studies are required to obtain the best standardized extract and to evaluate its clinical efficacy and safety.
Early drug-induced hepatotoxicity in newly diagnosed HIV-positive patients on ARV therapy: A retrospective follow-up study of liver function profiles
Authors: Chandra Lukman Ade , Subronto Yanri Wijayanti , Thobari Jarir At
Published: June 2023

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a primary therapeutic modality for managing individuals with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, and its efficacy has been established. However, the safety profiles of ART need to be continually monitored, including early elevated liver function test (LFT) after antiretroviral (ARV) initiation. This study aimed to assess the incidence of abnormal LFT among HIV-positive patients receiving initial ARV and to identify factors associated with abnormal LFT. A retrospective cohort study without a control group summarised medical records from Dr Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta between January 2014 and December 2021. The study subjects were adult HIV patients taking their first ARV and underwent follow-up visits for at least two weeks. Study outcomes were LFT levels, abnormal LFT, and factors associated with abnormal LFT during follow-up visits at 2 wk, 6 mo, and 12 mo. Univariate and multivariate analyses will be performed with a significance level of p<0.05. A total of 137 subjects with 203 visits were retrieved from medical records. The subjects' mean age was 33.4 years, predominantly male, younger, unmarried, in the early stage of HIV infection, and without comorbidities. The findings showed a significant increase in alanine transaminase (ALT) at all three follow-up visits: 2 wk (p=0.02), 6 mo (p=0.003), 12 mo (p=0.001) and an increase in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) after 6 mo (p=0.007) and 12 mo (p=0.04). Abnormal LFT levels (AST and/or ALT) were observed in 23.4% of patients after a normal baseline, with ALT increase being more common. Furthermore, homosexuality was identified as a significant independent factor associated with abnormal LFT (AOR=3.1; 95% CI 1.27-7.51; p=0.01). The findings indicate exceptionally elevated LFT levels and the occurrence of abnormal LFTs among HIV-positive patients initiating ARVs. The increase in abnormal LFTs was significantly associated with patients identifying as homosexual, where hepatitis co-infection may be a contributing factor. The limited study design and measured variables warrant further investigation.
The role of family caregivers in medication adherence of elderly in Asian setting: a scoping review
Authors: Wiedyaningsih Chairun , Widyakusuma Niken Nur , Sri Suryawati
Published: June 2023

Family caregivers for elderly play a very important role in implementing drug adherence, especially in Asian countries. Various determinants of medication adherence included caregivers as family support. Although the relationship between family support is not always significant, understanding the factors of family caregivers on medication adherence is important, especially when improving adherence in Asian countries.
The following scoping review was conducted to provide an overview of caregivers, and its relationship to medication adherence in Asian settings. PRISMA-ScR guideline and checklist was used for the search process and to guide reporting. Review selection and characterization were performed by reviewers independently. In total, 22 papers were included in the review, published from 2011 to 2021. The studies varied in terms of purpose, methodology, and detail of reporting. 
Family caregiver is an important determinant of medication adherence, especially for areas where extended family culture is still strong, such as in Asia. Understanding the local culture, aspects of family burden and economic, as well as the role of the health profession, especially pharmacists in health services are needed to improve adherence. Therefore, further research with quality methods is needed.
Pengembangan Aplikasi Pembelajaran Online dengan Metode Gamifikasi Berbasis Web
Authors: Sukran Clara Putri Andini , Huda Irkham
Published: June 2023

Kemajuan teknologi memberikan dampak yang besar dalam kemajuan di bidang pendidikan. Seiring kemajuan teknologi, banyak orang yang tertarik untuk mempelajari bidang teknologi karena bidang informasi teknologi mulai banyak dibutuhkan dalam berbagai sektor. Banyak sumber yang tersebar luas dan mudah didapatkan oleh siapapun serta dapat diakses di mana saja sebagai bahan untuk belajar. Namun, pembelajaran secara mandiri dengan internet rentan dengan penurunan motivasi belajar. Berdasarkan masalah yang ada, maka dibangun sebuah Aplikasi Pembelajaran Online dengan Metode Gamifikasi Berbasis Web untuk membantu menyediakan materi belajar yang tertatata untuk mempermudah proses belajar. Dalam aplikasi ini akan memiliki beragam materi yang terkait seputar pengembangan perangkat lunak yang disusun dengan menggunakan metode gamifikasi dalam upaya meningkatkan motivasi belajar pada individu. Materi yang ada akan dikelompokkan ke dalam learning path untuk membantu pengguna dalam menentukan arah belajar dan disusun secara berurutan. Aplikasi Pembelajaran Online dengan Metode Gamifikasi Berbasis Web dibangun dengan menggunakan bahasa pemograman PHP, framework Laravel, JavaScript, serta MySQL sebagai sarana dalam pengelolaan basis data. Hasil dari pengembangan Aplikasi Pembelajaran Online dengan Metode Gamifikasi Berbasis Web dapat membantu dalam melakukan proses belajar yang lebih tertata dan mudah.
THE IMPACT OF LEADERSHIP STYLE ON CONTEXTUAL PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM SERBIA
Authors: Strugar Jelača Maja , Berber Nemanja , Ivanović Đukić Maja , Marić Slobodan , Rodić Marijana
Published: June 2023

The primary purpose of this research paper is to present an empirical study framed by the Situational Leadership Theory, also referred to as the Hersey-Blanchard Model, which states that people-oriented leadership behaviours, which include more employee participation, are positively related to contextual performance. The data used in this research was collected through a combination of two quantitative instruments aimed at determining the relative contribution that the independent variables (leadership style) make to the dependent variables (contextual performance). The main method used in this research is hierarchical regression analysis. The research results revealed that people-oriented leadership behaviours with more employee participation (dominant delegating leadership style) have a positive and significant relationship with contextual performance. In terms of practice, this paper may enable organisations to understand the need for an adequate leadership style that ensures greater employee commitment and employee readiness to make additional efforts, which are beyond the job description. In terms of originality and value, along with previous research in this area, this paper enables future research and contributes to a better understanding of the impact of an adequate leadership style, as a predictor variable, on contextual performance, as dependent variables.
THE CHALLENGES OF THE PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN IN THE SERBIAN ARMED FORCES
Authors: Šaranović Jovanka , Stanojević Nataša , Marček Jan
Published: June 2023

This paper examines the roots of the disproportionately low representation of women in command and management positions as compared to their outstanding involvement in all the activities of the Serbian Armed Forces. The key source for this empirical research is the data compiled by surveying military personnel of both sexes on the functioning of the gender-mixed military and organizational units of the Serbian Armed Forces. Within this authentic pool of information about the respondents’ opinions, attitudes, and sentiments, the paper aims to identify whether, and to what extent, the advancement of women in military service lags due to gender stereotypes, which structures contribute to this problem the most, and whether there are other reasons for such a low representation of women in high-ranking positions. The methods applied are statistical analysis and Chi-squared statistics (c2), which determine the deviations in the answers of groups of respondents, and the assessment of the statistical significance of this deviation (p-value). The results indicated two groups of causes: sporadic informal slowing of progress by senior officers, and the psychological and physical maladaptation of a significant number of women to field tasks.
THE IDENTITY OF FAMILY FIRMS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF OWNERS ACCORDING TO THE GENDER CRITERION AND THEIR SOCIAL ROLE
Authors: Milašinović Srđan , Knežević Snežana , Milošević Goran
Published: June 2023

The aim of this paper is to investigate the determinants relevant to the identity of family enterprises from the perspective of their owners, in order to determine the differences in perspective according to gender, and to point out their social role. To this end, small and medium-sized family-owned enterprises operating in Serbia were observed. The focus was on determining their identity and the wider (social) role they play. It has been established that there are significant differences in certain attitudes of the owners of small and medium-sized enterprises stemming from a difference in their genders, which affects their identities and the positioning of the role they play in society.
Study on Growth Pattern of Capsicum in Greenhouse
Authors: Toppo Gabriel
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Polyhouse is a specialized structure that provides a controlled climate condition for the growth of different plants and other crops. It is a major innovation supported by state governments by providing subsidies for establishing the structure. Polyhouse farming requires less water, fertilizer, and pesticides, and provides a higher yield compared to traditional farming methods. The use of polyhouses is not limited to growing flowers, vegetables, and fruits, but also for developing new techniques for agriculture. The material which is used in this construction is bamboo which is very cheaper comparing to other construction material and easily available, and the strength of bamboo is excellent, it also provides a protected environment for crops from adverse climatic conditions like heavy rainfall. For this protective structure government is also providing subsidy up to 50% for the construction of Greenhouse & Shade net House. Apart from this, 20% additional subsidy is given to small, marginal, scheduled caste & scheduled tribe farmers i.e., 80% subsidy is payable to them. For small and marginal farmers this is a best option for growing different fruits and vegetables is different season.
Corrosion Inhibition of Copper Metal by Ethanolic Extract of Tinospora Cordifolia Plant in Sulfuric and Hydrochloric Acids of varying Strength (0.5 N to 3N) using Additives
Authors: Mandawara Vineeta , Chaturvedi Dr. Alok
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Using typical weight loss and thermometric techniques, the inhibitory impact of Tinospora cordifolia stem and leaf extract on copper corrosion in H2SO4 and HCl solutions of varying strength( 0.5N,1N,2N,3N) was investigated. The outcomes demonstrated that extracts worked as outstanding and effective inhibitors in acidic conditions, both in the absence and addition of additives. In an acidic environment, Tinospora cordifolia stem extract outperformed leaves extract in terms of inhibitory efficiency.The maximal inhibitory efficiency for stem extract at maximum inhibitor concentrations of 0.8% was 96.54% and 99.19% in 0.5 N H2SO4 and 95.26% & 97.78% in 0.5 N HCl, respectively, in the absence and presence of additives (KI & K2SO4). Similar to this, the effectiveness of the leaf extract's inhibition was 95.37% and 97.84% in 0.5 N H2SO4 and 94.15% and 96.92% in 0.5 N HCl, at a maximum inhibitor concentration of 0.8% in the absence and addition, respectively, of additives (KI & K2SO4). Based on the findings, stem extract suppresses H2SO4 and HCl more potently than leaf extract.Surface coverage (θ) grows as inhibitor concentration rises (from 0.2% to 0.8%).The values of log(θ/(1-θ) increase linearly as inhibitor concentration rises,it has been demonstrated that ,the inhibitor's adsorption on the copper surface in the acid solutions followed Langmuir's adsorption isotherm. The current investigation discovered that the inhibitors (stem and leaf) were more effective at inhibiting the metal copper in H2SO4 and HCl acid solutions when an additive (KI and K2SO4) was present than when the inhibitors (stem and leaf) were present alone. Synergistic effects are to blame for this. The combined action of the two chemicals is more potent on a metal surface than the combined actions of the two chemicals acting separately or concurrently.
The Impact of Covid-19 on India: Strategies for Sustainable Recovery Through Green Finance
Authors: Kujur Oscar
Published: June 2023

Abstract: India has suffered greatly as a result of the coronavirus epidemic in terms of both the number of lives lost and economic activity. Almost all industries have been badly impacted by the sharp drops in domestic demand and exports, with some notable exceptions displaying substantial growth. The COVID-19 crisis has demonstrated that growth must be long-term, inclusive, and sustainable. The cornerstones of India's economic recovery as it responds to this catastrophe must be sustenance and sustainability. Green finance refers to the use of both private and public funds for initiatives that not only protect the environment from harm and its associated effects, such as climate change and air pollution but also produce a wide range of social advantages and provide investors with adequate financial returns. Secondary data was gathered from various studies to examine the pandemic's effects on India. The research report discusses effective ways to recuperate from the COVID-19 epidemic. The empirical results showed that by employing green finance, India has a lot of promise for sustainability.