bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How does the central bank recapitalization policy affect competition in commercial banks of Sub-Saharan Africa?
Authors: Nfor Yuni Denis , Ifeanyi Attama Marcellus
Published: May 2022

In the last two decades, central banks in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have witnessed a trend of the recapitalization policy for commercial banks, and many more are bracing up to undertake the same reform. This has raised debates on whether and how it affects the competitiveness of commercial banks. Nevertheless, empirical evidence remains sparse and inclusive, especially for SSA countries. It is on this premise that this study, therefore, investigates competition in commercial banks before and after recapitalization for six selected SSA countries. The study employs the Panzar-Rosse model to analyze bank-level and macroeconomic indicators between 2000 and 2015. The results show that the H-statistic increased from –0.15, –0.28 and -0.82 before capitalization to 0.94, 0.97 and 0.7 after recapitalization for the first, second and third estimations respectively. This showed that bank competition is higher for the period after recapitalization than the period before recapitalization. The study, therefore, concludes that bank recapitalization could be necessary, especially for countries with low minimum paid-up capital. It is to the extent that banks can now be self-reliant with a higher capacity to invest, as this will significantly improve competition in commercial banks’ services. AcknowledgmentThis research study was supported by a grant from the African Economic Research Consortium, Nairobi Kenya. The findings, opinions and recommendations are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Consortium, its members or the AERC Secretariat.
Occurrence of Notodiaptomus maracaibensis Kiefer, 1954 (Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae) from an ephemeral pond in northern Colombia
Authors: Eslava-Eljaiek Pedro , Suárez-Morales Eduardo , Fuentes Reines Juan Manuel
Published: May 2022

El copépodo planctónico de agua dulce Notodiaptomus maracaibensis Kiefer, 1954 fue encontrado en un pequeño estanque temporal al norte de La Guajira, Colombia. Hasta ahora, se había registrado solamente en Venezuela y Colombia. Este es el primer registro ilustrado y documentado que confirma su presencia en Colombia y en el departamento de La Guajira. Los especímenes de La Guajira presentan una combinación de caracteres diagnósticos propios de N. maracaibensis, tal como se consigna tanto en su descripción original como en los trabajos taxonómicos posteriores, incluidos: 1) segmento 15 de la anténula derecha del macho sin proceso espinoso, 2) margen interno del basipodito de la P5 derecha del macho liso, 3) endopodito de la P5 derecha del macho corto, 4) segundo segmento exopodal de la P5 derecha del macho casi 2,5 veces tan largo como ancho; 5) espina lateral del segundo segmento exopodal de la P5 derecha del macho insertada subdistalmente; 6) procesos laterales del pedígero 5 de la hembra ligeramente asimétricos; 7) borde posterior de los procesos laterales del pedígero 5 de la hembra con una hilera de espínulas; 8) proceso lateral izquierdo del pedígero 5 de la hembra con ambas sensilas insertadas más cerca una de la otra que en el lado derecho; 9) doble somita genital 1,5 veces más largo que ancho, 10) ambas sensilas del somita genital dispuestas perpendicularmente al eje del cuerpo. Notodiaptomus maracaibensis se parece superficialmente a N. henseni, también presente en Colombia, y ambas podrían confundirse con facilidad; por ello, se presentan algunos detalles que permiten diferenciarlas. También se proporciona una clave para las especies de Notodiaptomus que se encuentran en Colombia.
Comunidad fitoplanctónica en una playa de la costa central de Venezuela y su relación con variables ambientales en un ciclo anual
Authors: Pereira Carlos , Ferrara De Giner Griselda , Troccoli-Ghinagli Luis , Hernández Vanessa , Peña Carolina , Losada Ricardo , Vera Francisco
Published: May 2022

El fitoplancton es un indicador excelente de la calidad del agua y de la condición del ambiente. Con la finalidad de identificar las especies de microalgas indicadoras de las condiciones hidrográficas de la zona marina y costera de una playa ubicada en la zona central de Venezuela y la variabilidad espacial y temporal de su estructura comunitaria, se realizaron 13 muestreos mensuales durante el período entre abril de 2010 – abril de 2011. Se recolectaron muestras de fitoplancton y se estimaron variables fisicoquímicas de interés para la calidad del agua. La comunidad fitoplanctónica estuvo representada por 168 especies o morfotipos distribuidos en 94 diatomeas, 55 dinoflagelados, ocho clorofitas, cinco euglenofitas y un flagelado, y se evidenciaron cambios temporales en su estructura comunitaria, relacionados con el aporte de aguas continentales durante las épocas de máximas precipitaciones y un ascenso de aguas profundas durante los primeros meses del año. Se evidencia una diversidad biológica alta de esta comunidad con una variedad de especies que incluye microalgas bentónicas, planctónicas, costeras, estuarinas y oceánicas. Adicionalmente, se identificaron las especies Trichodesmium thiebautii, Pseudonitzschia seriata, Asterionellopsis glacialis, Chaetoceros socialis, Thalassiosira nordeskioldii y Tripos massiliensis como bioindicadoras de las condiciones de la zona, debido a su relación con variables físicoquímicas específicas y a su capacidad de diferenciar la comunidad espacial y temporalmente.
Bloom algal y abundancia de copépodos en el golfo de Cariaco, Venezuela (Caribe Suroriental)
Authors: Díaz-Ramos José Rafael , Troccoli Luis , Márquez Rojas Brightdoom
Published: May 2022

Dentro del zooplancton, los copépodos son uno de los principales consumidores de fitoplancton. Por tanto, estos organismos son potenciales consumidores de las especies de dinoflagelados que producen toxinas. En este sentido, se estudiaron los efectos de las floraciones de algas nocivas (FAN) sobre los copépodos de la zona oriental del golfo de Cariaco, Venezuela. Se recolectaron muestras mensuales de junio de 2009 a mayo de 2010, en nueve estaciones distribuidas en tres zonas. Para el zooplancton, se empleó una red estándar de plancton de 333 μm, mientras que el fitoplancton se colectó a través de botella de agua (250 mL). Se midieron la temperatura (ºC), la salinidad (UPS), el oxígeno disuelto (mL.L-1), la abundancia fitoplanctónica (cel.mL-1), la concentración de clorofila a (mg.m-3) y los nutrientes inorgánicos (nitrato, nitrito, fosfato y silicato). La salinidad y el oxígeno disuelto resultaron significativamente diferentes de acuerdo con el modelo multifactorial de dos factores: períodos y zonas con dos y tres niveles, respectivamente. Las mayores concentraciones de Cl-a (0-26,49 mg.m-3) y de la abundancia fitoplanctónica (37-1,247 cel.mL-1) se reportaron en el período de lluvia (junio-julio de 2009). La comunidad zooplanctónica estuvo dominada por los copépodos (78 % de abundancia relativa), con abundancias totales entre 2 – 4,543 ind.m-3, y no mostró diferencias temporales ni espaciales. Durante el estudio se observó una sola floración algal durante junio-julio de 2009, dominada por Prorocentrum mexicanum y Gymnodinium catenatum. Se observó una correlación positiva entre los máximos de abundancia de Acartia tonsa y Temora turbinata con la mayor presencia de dinoflagelados tóxicos. La riqueza de copépodos fue relativamente baja debido a la dominancia de más del 90 % de A. tonsa y T. turbinata. Se sugiere que A. tonsa es capaz de ingerir estos dinoflagelados y utilizarlos sin sufrir efectos deletéreos aparentes.
Microalgas entre escolares de la región de Magallanes-sur de Chile. Una experiencia para desarrollar competencias científicas y divulgar la ciencia
Authors: Sánchez Gloria
Published: May 2022

Con el objetivo de dar a conocer el mundo de las microalgas a estudiantes de la Región de Magallanes (extremo sur austral de Chile), en 2014 surgió la iniciativa “Microcazadores de luz”. Entre 2018 y 2020, niños de 10 a 12 años participaron en actividades teórico-prácticas que les permitieron conocer varios grupos de microalgas de la región de Magallanes, así como su ecología, importancia y potencial uso biotecnológico. Los talleres teórico-prácticos fueron diseñados en formato de juego, imaginando que las microalgas pertenecen a un ejército casi invisible llamado microcazadores de Luz. Se estudiaron ejemplos de diferentes grupos de microalgas tales como cianófitas (Anabaena), diatomeas (Didymosphenia geminata), clorófitas (Chlamydomonas nivalis) y haptófitas (Braarudosphaera bigelowii), abarcando aspectos biológicos, morfológicos y ecológicos. En total, participaron 109 niños en cinco talleres, realizados en las ciudades de Punta Arenas y Puerto Natales. Los temas fueron presentados mediante historias y/o personificaciones de varias especies de microalgas, representativas de algunos ecosistemas de la región. También se visitaron varios laboratorios donde se cultivan las microalgas y se colectaron muestras que posteriormente fueron revisadas por los niños en el laboratorio. Los talleres tuvieron buena recepción por parte de niños y apoderados, como se evidenció en la rápida terminación de cupos y la alta asistencia.
Copper-Catalyzed N-Arylation of Indoles
Authors: Hisana Kalathingal Nasreen , Abdulla Cheriya Mukkolakkol Afsina , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: May 2022

Over the past decades, the N-arylation of indoles has gained an inevitable role in the fields of material science, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemical industries. They are the basic core skeleton of many natural products. Their synthesis by Ullmann-type C-N coupling reaction of indole derivatives with aryl halides through various catalytic protocols is well explored. Transition metal catalysis was the best method for synthesizing 1-aryl indoles, and copper catalysis is the leading among them. This review comprehends the recent developments in the copper-catalyzed C-N cross-coupling of indoles with aryl halides from 2010 to 2022.
Advances in the Synthesis of AmidesviaAlpha Oxygenation of Amines
Authors: Mandrekar Ketan S. , Kadam Hari K. , Tilve Anita , Tilve Santosh G.
Published: May 2022

Amides are universal in nature. Proteins are polymers (polyamides) whose units are connected by amide (peptide) linkages. Proteins perform innumerable functions in the body. Important synthetic polymers (technology products) like nylon are also polyamides. Hence, amide is an important functionality in chemistry and biology and consequently synthesis of it has remained a focused research area. Many methods are available for the synthesis of amides. The classical methods involve making amides from carboxylic acids and amines. The energy unfavourable direct reaction between an acid and an amine is turned in to favourable pathway using coupling reagents. Coupling agents like DCC, HOBt, PyBOP, etc are used. However these reagents generate lots of waste. There are also other selective methods which include Beckmann rearrangement, Schmidt reaction, Willgerodt-Kindler reaction, Passerini reaction and so on. Recently there is surge of revelations regarding alternate pathways to synthesize amides focussing into green or catalytic approaches. In this review we have covered several such alternate methods which use amines as the precursors. Oxidation and reduction are the back bone of synthetic organic transformations. Several elegant oxidizing agents have been developed for the oxidation of alcohols and olefins with selectivity in mind. However, many of these oxidizing agents have potential to oxidize amines to amides but they were not studied earlier as green chemistry was not in much focus then. With present focus on sustainability and green chemistry, scientists have embarked to synthesise amides in greener way. One such way is to get amides in a cleaner way is to oxidize amines to amides. Hence, in this review we have endeavoured to compile all such methods which have been used to make amides or have the potential for such transformation. Other than use of several oxidizing reagents, tandem oxidation amidation and other miscellaneous methods are included in this review. The reactions which give amides as by-products are also included as such reactions are potential methods to synthesize amides. Mechanisms are also included at relevant places. The review is classified within the report available for the Oxidations of amines using transition metals, transition metal salts and transition metal oxides; Oxidations of amines using non-metals; Photocatalytic oxidations of amines; Air oxidation of amines; Electrochemical oxidations; Enzymatic conversions; Oxidative coupling of Aldehydes; Oxidative coupling of Alcohols; Oxidative amidation of Methylbenzenes; and Oxidation of aromatic nitrogen heterocycles.
Construction of PARPi Resistance-related Competing Endogenous RNA
Network
Authors: Xiang Juanjuan , Kong Lili , Xu Jiaqi , Yu Lijun , Liu Shuo , Liu Zongjian
Published: May 2022

Objective:

Ovarian cancer is the common gynecological malignancy in women. PARP inhibitors (PARPi) have been approved for ovarian cancer treatment. However, the primary and acquired resistance have limited the application of PARPi. The mechanisms underlying remain to be elucidated.

Methods:

In this study, we characterized the expression profiles of mRNA and nonconding RNAs (ncRNAs) and constructed the regulatory networks based on RNA sequencing in PARPi Olaparib-induced ovarian cancer cells.

Results:

We found that the functions of the differentially expressed genes were enriched in “PI3K/AKT signaling pathway”“MAPK signaling pathway” and “metabolic process”. The functions of DELs (cis) were enriched in “Human papillomavirus infection”“tight junction” “MAPK signaling pathway”. As the central regulator of ceRNAs, the differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched in “Human papillomavirus infection” “MAPK signaling pathway” “Ras signaling pathway” . According to the degree of interaction, we identified 3 lncRNAs, 2 circRNAs, 7 miRNAs and 12 mRNA as the key regulatory ceRNA axis, in which miR-320b was the important mediator.

Conclusion:

Here, we revealed the key regulatory lncRNA (circRNA)-miRNA-mRNA axis and their involved pathways in the PARPi resistant ovarian cancer cells. These findings provide new insights in exploring the ceRNA regulatory networks and developing new targets for PARPi resistance.
HDAC Inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Omidkhah Negar , Hadizadeh Farzin , Ghodsi Razieh
Published: May 2022

Following the coronavirus outbreak, global efforts to find a vaccine and drug affecting Covid-
19 have been widespread. Reusing some of the available drugs has had relatively satisfactory results. One
of the classes of drugs studied against SARS-CoV-2 is the HDAC inhibitors collected in this review.
Among the most important points of this study can be mentioned: (a) SARS-COV-2 infection can influence
the ACE/ACE2-ATR1-Cholesterol-HDAC axis signaling, (b) By limiting endocytosis and decreasing
ACE2-spike protein recognition at the same time, Romidepsin may hinder SARS-2-S-driven host cell
entry. (c) HDAC inhibitors affect the expression of ABO, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in epithelial cell lines.
(d) Valproic acid may help to reduce ARDS as well as hospitalizations and death. (e) Trichostatin A inhibits
antigen expression, viral RNA load and infectious particle production in SARS-CoV-2.
Various Carbonic Anhydrases in Physiopathological Events, Carbonic
Anhydrase Inhibitors, and Hybrid Compounds
Authors: Er Ayse
Published: May 2022

Enzymes are highly specific catalysts that accelerate reactions in biological systems. Carbonic
anhydrase (CA) is an enzyme found in plants, microorganisms, and vertebrates. CA catalyses CO2 hydration/
dehydration. There are different families and isoenzymes of CAs. Fifteen α-CA isoenzymes have
been reported in humans. The status of CO2 hydration and dehydration is important for a variety of biological
processes. CAs play an important role in many physiological and pathological events in several
tissue types. Their levels are increased in some diseases; therefore, CA inhibition has been applied as a
therapeutic option. However, the high diversity of these isoenzymes is an important consideration. Isoenzyme-
specific CA inhibitors can reduce the side effects of treatment. Some agents containing additional
sulfonamides approved for other therapeutic applications, such as topiramate, celecoxib/valdecoxib, sulpiride,
and famotidine, have inhibitory effects on CA isoenzymes. These bind to the zinc ion in the CA
active site. Recently, research has been conducted on the use of a hybrid form of active ingredient and a
CA inhibitor. CA inhibitor-NSAID hybrid compounds demonstrated more efficacy than NSAIDs in arthritis,
which has attracted further attention of researchers in conducting research on CA-hybrid drugs.
COVID-19 Associated Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Series from India
Authors: Singh Jitendra , Kumar Nilesh , Kumar Kailash , Dinkar Anju
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Initially, COVID-19 was typically concerned with respiratory symptoms and
had a mild and asymptomatic to critical clinical course. Over time, many atypical presentations related
to cardiac, hepatic, gastrointestinal, renal, musculoskeletal, and neurological features have been reported
in COVID-19.

Case Presentation:

We present three confirmed cases of COVID-19, who developed acute pancreatitis
without any other obvious discernible cause. One middle-aged 48-years old male was presented with
severe abdominal pain with mild symptoms of COVID-19, who was later diagnosed with acute pancreatitis
with a positive outcome. Another 40-year-old male, hospitalized due to moderate COVID-19,
developed acute pancreatitis and was managed successfully. The third 58-year-old patient with control
diabetes and severe COVID-19 developed acute necrotizing pancreatitis. Unfortunately, he succumbed
due to multiorgan failure while on the mechanical ventilator.

Conclusion:

Acute pancreatitis is uncommon in COVID-19. Although, it should be kept as a highindex
clinical suspicion if abdominal pain is reported. Early diagnosis and prompt management can
significantly impact the patient's outcome.
Parental Perceptions and Concerns Related to the Consequences of
Pediatric Obesity: Feeling or Real Problem?
Authors: Puma Andrea , Pecoraro Luca , Salvottini Chiara , Carbonare Luca Dalle , Piacentini Giorgio , Pietrobelli Angelo
Published: May 2022

Lifestyle modifications (i.e., nutrition and physical activity) remain the main tools in the
context of childhood obesity’s treatment and prevention of short and long-term consequences. At the
same time, parental perception of child weight represents an even more important tool. It is known
that more than half of parents of overweight/obese children underestimate their child’s weight status
or are not worried about the risks associated with childhood overweight/obesity. Consequently,
parental perception of childhood obesity can often be erroneous, and, even when accurate, subsequent
parental behaviors can inadvertently contribute to the onset or persistence of childhood and adult
obesity. Starting from the evidence that targeting a parent to induce a behavioral change is more
effective than targeting the child only without parental participation, parental perceptions of
childhood obesity can therefore represent a very important tool to take into consideration to achieve
improvements in the context of childhood obesity. Therefore, knowledge of parental perception of
children's weight status is needed to help pediatricians to organize and adapt activities and programs
that promote healthy weight management among children. Specifically, early assessments of parents'
perceptions of a child's weight, followed by regular follow-up visits, appropriate feedback,
continuing education efforts, and efforts to follow the child’s weight status over time, can be
potentially very helpful.
Location Tracking Mechanisms for Dementia Patients
Authors: Arora Parul , Deswal Suman
Published: May 2022

Background:

Dementia causes a slow decline in the cognitive impairing abilities in the behavior of the elders. This suppresses the elders to live independently due to their wandering tendencies. To reduce any kind of harm to such patients, consistent supervision is required by the caretaker. The existing location tracking methods consume high energy to provide the accurate location.

Introduction:

Some systems have been developed to track the wandering pattern of patients in indoor and outdoor environments. Initially, the methodologies used for location tracking use sensors, accelerometers and based on embedded programs. However, these methods do not provide high accuracy and are hence unreliable.

Method:

In this paper, a study on the location detection algorithms based upon frequency of visit, navigation, geofences, and movement patterns is carried out. Many other algorithms based on location tracking are discussed in this study.

Results:

The algorithms are compared on the basis of accuracy, recall rate, detection rate, and false alarm rate. The algorithms based on geofence provide 95% detection rate, 95% accuracy, less than 3% false alarm rate, and less than 1 ms latency. The algorithms based on navigation provide 85% detection rate, 95% accuracy, less than 2% false alarm rate, and less than 10 s latency, while the algorithms based on movement pattern offer 90% detection rate, 90% accuracy, 5% false alarm rate and 12 s latency.

Conclusion:

The study shows that geofences provide the best solution in detecting the location of patients.
Anti-Quorum Sensing Effect of Salvadora Persica Against Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212)
Authors: Kadhim Ehsan , Amin Bushra , Amin Bassam
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Quorum Sensing (QS) is a mechanism many bacteria use to manage their cooperative activities and physiological functions. The Fsr system in Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29,212) is an example of quorum sensing with a cell density-dependent two-component regulatory system mechanism. Several publications have shown that the Fsr system and proteases independently contribute to E. faecalis pathogenicity in various infection models.

Objectives:

There is currently no published research to determine the exact molecular ability of Salvadora persica on quorum-sensing genes. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the plant extracts that inhibit the expression of the quorum-sensing gene (FsrC).

Methods:

Different fractions of Salvadora persica were obtained using different solvents, including standard hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, ethyl alcohol, and water which are expressed as fractions 1,2,3,4,5 and 6, respectively. Antibacterial activity assay of different plant extracts (S. persica) was determined by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Finally, the relative expression of the quorum-sensing (QS) gene was evaluated using a One-step quantitative RT-PCR PrimeScript™ RT-PCR Kit.

Results:

All fractions of S. persica showed antimicrobial activity. However, ethyl acetate- S. persica inhibited the growth of E. faecalis (ATCC 29,212) at the lowest concentration, which was 20mg/ml and the highest concentration inhibited the growth of E. faecalis (ATCC 29,212) was 60mg/ml (chloroform- S. persica). Furthermore, the highest change fold value of (4.99) was recorded in treated E. faecalis (ATCC 29,212) with fraction 1 (hexane).

Conclusion:

Overall, S. persica showed antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis (ATCC 29,212). However, more studies are required to investigate the effect of different plant extracts on quorum-sensing genes of Enterococcus faecalis.
Inflammation Progresses to Normal Tissue in Patients with Anthracosis after Discontinuation of Exposure to Fossil Fuel
Authors: Samet Mohammad , Binesh Fariba , Zand Sanaz , Rezaeisadrabadi Mohammad , Nazemian Ryan
Published: May 2022

Background:

Exposure to toxic materials predisposes the lungs to infectious agents and inflammatory responses. The present study was performed on patients with anthracosis caused by exposure to fossil fuels in previous years, and histopathological features of airways’ normal-appearing tissue were compared with histopathological features of anthracotic plaques in these patients.

Methods:

Bronchoscopic evaluations were performed on bakery workers who were directly in contact with fossil fuels. Samples were taken from anthracotic plaques (Group A) or seemingly intact tissues at their periphery (Group B). Pathological evaluations were done after hematoxylin and eosin staining. Then, microbiological cultures were performed for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Data obtained from bronchoscopy, pathology, and cultures were compared between anthracotic and normal-appearing peripheral tissues using chi-square and analysis of variances (ANOVA) at a 95% confidence level.

Results:

Sixty-eight patients were diagnosed with anthracotic plaques. The mean ± SD of the patients’ age was 72.12 ± 13.74 years. Females comprised 58.8% of the sample, and 85.3% of the patients were Iranian. The frequency rates of disseminated plaques and obstructive types were 86.8% and 48.5%, respectively. Ten patients (14.70%) were diagnosed with tuberculosis, and 4.41% (3 of 68) had granuloma, which was detectable only in samples gathered from Group A. Fibrosis was more common in Group A (10.3%, p = 0.03), and most of the evaluated samples in both groups exhibited inflammatory features.

Conclusion:

Inflammatory changes and tissue damage can be seen in anthracotic plaques and the surrounding normal-appearing tissue, even after removing the triggering factors. So, it is suggested to take a biopsy from seemingly intact tissue at the periphery of the anthracotic plaque when a biopsy is needed in a patient with anthracosis to reduce the risk of bleeding. Besides, medical treatment should be done to control inflammation.
The Role of Resilience towards the Correlation between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Post-Traumatic Growth
Authors: Widyorini Endang , Roswita Maria Yang , Primastuti Emiliana , Wijaya Daniswara Agusta
Published: May 2022

Background:

Positive changes may occur in someone after experiencing a traumatic childhood. Previous research found that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) could not be the only factor that becomes the cause for an individual’s Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG); thus, research that describes the role of a mediator in both variables is needed. Since studies investigating ACEs among Indonesia participants are still lacking, this would be considered as initial research on the relations of ACEs and PTG.

Objective:

This research was aimed to investigate how resilience becomes a mediator between children’s traumatic experiences of ACEs and PTG.

Methods:

This research used a quantitative correlational method to investigate the relation between the three examined variables: Adverse Childhood Experience (ACEs), Resilience, and Post-traumatic Growth (PTG). A total of 349 participants were participated in this research, with the age range from 12 to 65 years old, predominantly female (N = 271;77,7%). Three research instruments were used in this study, such as the Adverse Childhood Experiences scale, Connor Davidson Resilience Scale, and Post Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI).

Results:

The results showed a significant correlation between Adverse Childhood Experiences, Resilience, and Post-Traumatic Growth. A Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) analysis revealed a nonsignificant impact from ACEs to PTG. Resilience is proven to play the role of a mediator in the relation between ACEs and PTG, which was shown using the submitted model plot that revealed a higher total effect after resilience was placed as the intervening variable (standardized total coefficient = –.192). Details on mediating effects of each resilience factor were presented and explained further, along with the discussion on Indonesia's cultural background.

Conclusion:

This article revealed the connection between the ACE that the individual experienced in the past with resilience and PTG. Indonesian-related culture and characteristics were also explained.
Incidence of Preterm Infants, Indications of Admission, Risk Factors, and Discharge Outcome: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hassan Atyat Mohammed
Published: May 2022

Background:

Prematurity is still a major cause of neonatal and infant mortality and morbidity.

Aim:

This study aimed to describe the incidence of preterm infants, indications of admission, risk factors, and discharge outcome.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective, descriptive design was used. A sample of 692 preterm infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) was included. A structured sheet was used to gather the necessary data. It involved two parts: characteristics of preterm infants and their mothers and risk factors concerning preterm birth.

Results:

The study found that 49.4% of admitted neonates were preterm; among them, 48.1% died on discharge. Moreover, there were significant relations between the type of gestation (p=0.000), mothers' age (p=0.001), anemia, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, antepartum hemorrhage, premature rupture of membranes, obstructed labor, family history of medical diseases, and mothers' history of medical diseases with preterm infants' gestational age (p=0.01, 0.001, 0.02, 0.01, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, respectively). Moreover, it was observed that higher admission of preterm infants who had respiratory problems, followed by gastrointestinal problems.

Conclusion:

There was a higher prevalence with a higher mortality rate of admitted preterm infants to NICU. Likewise, the type of gestation, mothers' age, presence of complications during pregnancy, bad obstetric history, and family and medical history of diseases were the most common risk factors of prematurity. Moreover, respiratory problems were the main etiology for admission of preterm infants to NICU. Therefore, early screening of diseases and obstetric complications during pregnancy is recommended.

Implications for Nursing Practice:

Providing educational programs for pediatric nurses will increase their level of awareness regarding incidence, indications, risk factors, and discharge outcome of prematurity, thus reducing the rate of mortality and morbidity among preterm infants.
Insulin Sensitivity / Insulin Resistance as Predictors of Esophageal Varices in Post Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Patients
Authors: Badawi Rehab , Watany Mona Mohamed , Elsabagh Hala Moustafa , Elkhalawany Walaa
Published: May 2022

Background:

Screening of Esophageal Varices (EV) in liver cirrhosis is highly recommended in all consensus reports. The standard screening procedure is endoscopy. Insulin resistance (IR) and the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) are reliable predictors of portal hypertension.

Objective:

The study aimed to assess and compare the validity of insulin sensitivity/insulin resistance markers and other non-invasive markers for the detection of EVs in post chronic hepatitis C virus cirrhotic patients.

Patients and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 76 patients were screened by esophagogastroduodenoscopy and abdominal ultrasonography. Estimation of fasting serum insulin by ELISA technique was carried out. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and QUICKI was performed.

Results:

The patients with an advanced grade of EV had higher insulin resistance and lower QUICKI. A cut-off value of HOMA-IR ≥ 3.4 could significantly predict EVs with 72% sensitivity and 80.0% specificity. Spleen diameter and platelet count/spleen diameter ratio (PC/SD) showed a significant difference among groups.

Conclusion:

Lower insulin sensitivity (assessed by QUICKI) and higher insulin resistance (assessed by HOMA IR) were good non-invasive predictors of EVs. In addition, portal vein (PV) diameter, spleen diameter, and PC/SD were also found as predictors of EVs.
Psychogenic dysphagia in children, and the success of family-based treatment
Authors: Batara Reinaldo , Ardani I Gusti Ayu I. , Wardani Ida Aju K. , Windiani I Gusti Ayu Trisna , Adnyana I Gusti Agung Ngurah Sugitha , Setiawati Yunias
Published: May 2022

There is a close relationship between a person's mental health and gastrointestinal disorders. Psychogenic dysphagia is a rare condition related to swallowing disorders with no structural cause or organic diseases such as neurological deficits or other physical disorders. The mechanism of this swallowing disorder is still not well understood. Based on various studies that have been conducted, the condition of psychogenic dysphagia has comorbidity with psychological disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress. In this case report, we will present a case of a 7-year-old male patient who had difficulty swallowing due to fear of vomiting with disturbed psychosocial conditions, and no organic disorders were found after the examination. The BDI examination showed a score of 18, which is within the border of clinical depression. So that the patient was diagnosed with psychogenic dysphagia which was included in the category of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder in DSM 5. Holistic and multidisciplinary treatment was needed in this case. It was also reported that the success of medical treatment to reduce the patient's vomiting symptoms from pediatrics and psychologist department, combined with supportive psychotherapy and family-based treatment increases the patient's recovery rate.
Pengambilan Langkah Perbaikan sebagai Bagian dari Evaluasi Strategi Pelayanan Penanaman Modal dalam Peningkatan Kualitas PTSP
Authors: Permatasari Rochvika Ariesta
Published: May 2022

Due to minimize obstacles and maximize the preparation and implementation of investment strategies, Pasuruan Regency Government needs to implement strategic management, especially in strategy evaluation. Taking corrective action to improve the strategy in a series of activities to evaluate the investment service strategy are an important step to make some continuous improvement in the investment service strategy. The purpose of this study was to examine the process at the stage of taking corrective action in evaluating strategies at the Office of Investment and Integrated Services (DPMPT) of Pasuruan Regency. This research uses a case study method with a qualitative approach. The results shows that in the process of taking corrective action, have been met the criteria of consistency, but have not met the suitability, eligibility and benefit criteria, because strategists did not consider the quantity and quality of the resources within the process of corrective action moreover the strategists did not take some corrective action in the case of previous formulated program was not implemented successfully.
Implementing Electronic Health Records in Primary Care Using the Theory of Change: Nigerian Case Study
Authors: Adedeji Taiwo , Fraser Hamish , Scott Philip
Published: May 2022

Background

Digital health has been a tool of transformation for the delivery of health care services globally. An electronic health record (EHR) system can solve the bottleneck of paper documentation in health service delivery if it is successfully implemented, but poor implementation can lead to a waste of resources. The study of EHR system implementation in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is of particular interest to health stakeholders such as policy makers, funders, and care providers because of the efficiencies and evidence base that could result from the appropriate evaluation of such systems.

Objective

We aimed to develop a theory of change (ToC) for the implementation of EHRs for maternal and child health care delivery in LMICs. The ToC is an outcomes-based approach that starts with the long-term goals and works backward to the inputs and mediating components required to achieve these goals for complex programs.

Methods

We used the ToC approach for the whole implementation’s life cycle to guide the pilot study and identify the preconditions needed to realize the study’s long-term goal at Festac Primary Health Centre in Lagos, Nigeria. To evaluate the maturity of the implementation, we adapted previously defined success factors to supplement the ToC approach.

Results

The initial ToC map showed that the long-term goal was an improved service delivery in primary care with the introduction of EHRs. The revised ToC revealed that the long-term change was the improved maternal and child health care delivery at Festac Primary Health Center using EHRs. We proposed a generic ToC map that implementers in LMICs can use to introduce an optimized EHR system, with assumptions about sustainability and other relevant factors. The outcomes from the critical success factors were sustainability: the sustained improvements included trained health care professionals, a change in mindset from using paper systems toward digital health transformation, and using the project’s laptops to collect aggregate data for the District Health Information System 2–based national health information management system; financial: we secured funding to procure IT equipment, including servers, laptops, and networking, but the initial cost of implementation was high, and funds mainly came from the funding partner; and organizational: the health professionals, especially the head of nursing and health information officers, showed significant commitment to adopting the EHR system, but certain physicians and midwives were unwilling to use the EHR system initially until they were persuaded or incentivized by the management.

Conclusions

This study shows that the ToC is a rewarding approach to framing dialogue with stakeholders and serves as a framework for planning, evaluation, learning, and reflection. We hypothesized that any future health IT implementation in primary care could adapt our ToC approach to their contexts with necessary modifications based on inherent characteristics.
Intravenous Infusion of Autoserum-Expanded Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Patients With Chronic Brain Injury: Protocol for a Phase 2 Trial
Authors: Oka Shinichi , Yamaki Tomohiro , Sasaki Masanori , Ukai Ryo , Takemura Mitsuhiro , Yokoyama Takahiro , Kataoka-Sasaki Yuko , Onodera Rie , Ito Yoichi M , Kobayashi Shigeki , Kocsis Jeffery D , Iwadate Yasuo , Honmou Osamu
Published: May 2022

Background

Brain injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents and falls, as well as hypoxic insults and other conditions, are one of the leading causes of disability and death in the world. Current treatments are limited but include continuous rehabilitation, especially for chronic brain injury. Recent studies have demonstrated that the intravenous infusion of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has therapeutic efficacy for several neurological diseases, including stroke and spinal cord injury.

Objective

The objective of our investigator-initiated clinical trial is to assess the safety and potential efficacy of the intravenous infusion of autoserum-expanded autologous MSCs for patients with chronic brain injury.

Methods

The (phase 2) trial will be a single-arm, open-label trial with the primary objective of confirming the safety and efficacy of autoserum-expanded autologous MSCs (STR-01; produced under good manufacturing practices) when administered to patients with chronic brain injury. The estimated number of enrolled participants is 6 to 20 patients with a modified Rankin Scale grade of 3 to 5. The assessment of safety and the proportion of cases in which the modified Rankin Scale grade improves by 1 point or more at 180 days after the injection of STR-01 will be performed after MSC infusion.

Results

We received approval for our clinical trial from the Japanese Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency on December 12, 2017. The trial will be completed on June 11, 2023. The registration term is 5 years. The recruitment of the patients for this trial started on April 20, 2018, at Sapporo Medical University Hospital in Japan.

Conclusions

Our phase 2 study will aim to address the safety and efficacy of the intravenous infusion of MSCs for patients with chronic brain injury. The use of STR-01 has been performed for patients with cerebral infarction and spinal cord injury, providing encouraging results. The potential therapeutic efficacy of the systemic administration of autoserum-expanded autologous MSCs for chronic brain injury should be evaluated, given its safety and promising results for stroke and spinal cord injury.

Trial Registration

Japan Medical Association Center for Clinical Trials JMA-IIA00333; https://tinyurl.com/nzkdfnbc

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/37898
Authors’ Response to Peer Reviews of “Patient Recommendations for the Content and Design of Electronic Returns of Genetic Test Results: Interview Study Among Patients Who Accessed Their Genetic Test Results via the Internet” (Preprint)
Authors: Korngiebel Diane M , West Kathleen McGlone
Published: May 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report related to MS# 29706.
Validasi Modul “Sadari dan Atasi Kekerasan Seksual Sejak Dini” (SAKSI) untuk Meningkatkan Pengetahuan KSA Anak Usia 6 Tahun
Authors: Dewi Yofhi Rio Nicha
Published: May 2022

Kasus kekerasan seksual terhadap anak (KSA) mengalami peningkatan tiap tahunnya. KSA merupakan kasus pervasif yang berefek panjang bagi korban maupun keluarganya. Pemberian psikoedukasi kepada anak dinilai dapat membekali anak dalam menghadapi KSA. Akan tetapi, penelitian dengan memberikan psikoedukasi kepada anak masih jarang dilakukan. Oleh karena itu penelitian yang dilakukan memiliki sasaran utama anak-anak. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memvalidasi modul Sadari dan Atasi Kekerasan Seksual sejak Dini (SAKSI). Pengujian validasi dalam penelitian ini terdiri dari validasi isi dan empirik. Modul SAKSI ini disusun oleh peneliti berdasarkan sesi program yang dikembangkan oleh Kim dan Kang dengan menambahkan sesi psikoedukasi kepada orang tua anak. Proses validasi isi diuji dengan rumusan Aiken’s V, sedangkan validasi empirik diuji dengan penelitian eksperimen melalui metode eksperimen kuasi dengan untreated control group design with dependent pretest and posttest. Program ini dibawakan oleh seorang psikolog dengan partisipannya adalah anak dan orang tua. Program berdurasi selama ±120 menit sebanyak satu kali pertemuan dengan orang tua dan empat kali pertemuan dengan anak. Hasil uji Aiken’s V menunjukkan bahwa modul terbukti valid secara konten (V > 0,05) dan valid secara empirik yang diuji dengan paired samples t-test (p < 0,05) pada kelompok eksperimen.
The Role of Digital Marketing Interventions in E-Advocacy Leverage Capacity: A Culinary Business Breakthrough to Counter the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Setiawan Ahmad Ikhwan , Hendraningsih Annisa Pratiwi , Rahayu Sri , Dewi Amina Sukma
Published: May 2022

Introduction/Main Objectives: This research aims to study the important factors behind achieving the e-advocacy leverage capacity that determines the success of a business in the sphere of digital marketing. Background Problems: In response to the increasing competition in the world of online culinary businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses have to enhance strategic marketing to improve consumer loyalty. Novelty: This research model contributes to the development of a concept about consumer advocacy from the perspective of strategic marketing, which is still a limited area of study. Research Methods: The research model was applied to 220 respondents (Indonesian culinary business owners) using a survey that was processed with AMOS SEM. Finding/Results: This research convincingly identifies two significant building factors for e-advocacy leveraged capacity, namely promotional attractiveness and digital affinity direction. Conclusion: Companies’ marketing strategies focus not only on maintaining close customer relations but also on ways to intervene with customers so that they are willing to advocate products or brands through digital media.
IMPACT OF COVID-19 IN THE EDUCATION SYSTEMS
Authors: BARIK VIVEK , BARIK BHAKTI BHUSAN , KHAMKAT PIYALI
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on education systems around the world, affecting approximately 1.7 billion students in over 200 nations. More than 95% of the world’s student population has been touched by school, institution, and other learning facility closures. This has resulted in significant changes in every part of our life. Traditional educational techniques have been considerably disrupted by social alienation and limited movement policies. The reopening of schools once the restrictions have been lifted is another challenge, as many new standard operating procedures have been implemented. Many scholars have shared their work on teaching and learning in various ways in the aftermath of the COVID-19 outbreak. Face-to-face instruction has been phased out at a number of schools, colleges, and universities. There is concern that the 2020 academic year, or maybe more in the future, would be lost. Innovation and implementation of alternative educational systems and assessment methodologies are urgently needed. The COVID-19 epidemic has given us the opportunity to lay the groundwork for digital learning. The purpose of this article is to present a complete assessment on the influence of the COVID-19 epidemic on online teaching and learning of various papers, as well as to suggest a course of action and future aspects.
A Review of Next Generation Sequencing Methods and its Applications in Laboratory Diagnosis
Authors: Bhaskaran Srivalsa , Saikumar Chithralekha
Published: May 2022

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a new technology used to detect the sequence of DNA and RNA and to detect mutations or variations of significance. NGS generates large quantities of sequence data within a short time duration. The various types of sequencing includes Sanger Sequencing, Pyrosequencing, Sequencing by Synthesis (Illumina), Ligation (SoLID), Single molecule Fluorescent Sequencing (Helicos), Single molecule Real time Sequencing (Pacbio), Semiconductor sequencing (Ion torrent technology), Nanopore sequencing and fourth generation sequencing. These methods of sequencing have been modified and improved over the years such that it has become cost effective and accessible to diagnostic laboratories. Management of Outbreaks, rapid identification of bacteria, molecular case finding, taxonomy, detection of the zoonotic agents and guiding prevention strategies in HIV outbreaks are just a few of the many applications of Next Generation sequencing in clinical microbiology.
Validation and Evaluation of Plant Growth Promoting Potential of Rhizobacteria Towards Paddy Plants
Authors: Kumari Menka , Swarupa Preeti , Kumar Anil
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to characterize, validate, and evaluate the plant growth potential of bacterial isolates (E-2, T-2, and T-1) to determine their suitability for application as biofertilizers and/or plant-biostimulants. The plant growth-promoting potential of bacteria (E-2, T-2, and T-1) has been validated in a hydroponic study on paddy plants by inoculating bacterial isolates and monitoring the phenotypic and plant growth responses. The applicability of bacteria was tested based on their tolerance to salinity, susceptibility to antibiotics, and identification based on 16S rDNA sequencing. The isolates E-2, T-2, and T-1 improved plant growth variably and significantly (P < 0.05 at 95% confidence interval) when inoculated into the plant growth matrix, ensuring nutrient availability to the plants grown under a nutrient (nitrate or phosphate) deprived growth matrix. Isolates E-2, T-2, and T-1 grew at salt (NaCl) concentrations of 7%, 6%, and 6%, respectively, and were tolerant to saline conditions. Although these three isolates exhibited resistance to certain antibiotics, they were susceptible to a large number of readily available antibiotics. Isolates E-2, T-2, and T-1 were identified as Klebsiella sp. strain BAB-6433, Citrobacter freundii strain R2A5, and Citrobacter sp. DY1981 respectively, and all of these may be assigned to Risk-Group-2 and hence are safe in view of their susceptibility to readily available antibiotics. Hence, these isolates are promising for extensive evaluation as bioinoculants to ecologically improve soil quality, fertility, crop growth, and yield.