bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency and Factors associated with Thyroid Dysfunction- A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study from a Tertiary Care Center in Afghanistan
Authors: Lakanwall Mohammad Naeem , Ahmed Sibtain Ahmed , Azizi Shabnam , Jalal Jamshid , Haidary Ahmed Maseh , Hanifi Ahmed Nasir , Gowani Ambreen
Published: November 2020

Objective: Endocrinopathies are a commonly occurring entity, particularly those of the thyroid gland, however there is death of scientific literature from Afghanistan, a country with very limited health care facilities and resources. This is the first study aimed to describe the frequency of occurrence and factor associated with thyroid dysfunction in Afghan population. The aim of this study is to estimate the frequency and to identify factors associated with thyroid dysfunction among individuals coming to a tertiary care facility in Kabul, Afghanistan.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to Sep 2018 at the Department of Clinical Pathology, French Medical Institute for Mothers and Children (FMIC), Kabul, Afghanistan. Blood samples were obtained, serum TSH levels were analyzed, and the patients were divided into three diagnostic categories according to their serum TSH concentrations: 1) Hypothyroidism 2) Hyperthyroidism 3) normal.Results: A total of 127 individuals were included in the final analysis. Majority study participants (77%) were females. A large number of the participants (92%) did not have family history of thyroid dysfunction. (74%) participants in the study had normal TSH levels classified as normal thyroid function, (14%) had lower TSH levels and (12%) higher TSH levels (Table 1) classified as hyper and hypothyroid respectively.Conclusion: The findings of the current study showed a high frequency of thyroid dysfunctions from a single center. Further large scale studies are needed to find out the prevalence and document this entity for better health outcomes in the country.
Prevalence and predictors of work related musculoskeletal disorders among workers of a Gold mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Okello Alfred , Wafula Solomon Tsebeni , Deogratias Deogratias K , Mugambe Richard K
Published: November 2020

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are a major constraint to worker performance and health. However, research on their prevalence and associated factors among workers at gold mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is insufficient. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of WRMSDs among workers of a Gold Mine in South Kivu, DRC. Methods: Cross sectional data on prevalence of WRMSDs and risk factors was collected using a modified Nordic questionnaire and upper limb Core QX checklist from 196 workers of a gold mine. WRMSDs were defined as pain or injury(ies) or discomfort, numbness or limitation of movement in the musculoskeletal system at any time in the past 12 months which lasted at least 24hours. These had to be either induced or aggravated by work and circumstances of its performance. A generalised linear model of the Poison family with link log and robust error variances was used to generate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the factors associated with WRMSDs. The effect of individual, ergonomic and psychosocial factors on WRMSDs were investigated while controlling for known confounders. Results: Most workers were males 187 (95.4%) and their age ranged between 23 and 60 years with mean of 36.3 years. Of the 196 workers, 49 (25.0%) reported having at least one WRMSD during the previous 12 months. WRMSDs with highest occurrence rate were the lower back pain (14.8%), followed by thighs/hip pain (9.2%) and shoulder pain (8.2%). Prolonged heavy lifting/shovelling shovelling (PR = 1.69, 95% CI [1.32, 3.24] and longer work shifts (> 9hrs) (PR = 3.56, 95% CI [1.76, 16.58]) were predictive for WRMSDs while jobs with low demands were protective against WRMSDs (PR = 0.18, 95% CI [0.08, 0.44]).Conclusion: The prevalence of WRMSDs is high and associated with prolonged heavy lifting/shovelling, longer work shifts and job demands. We recommend lowering workload and job demands and improving work ergonomics to mitigate and prevent the WRMSDs among workers in goldmines.
Genome-Wide in Silico Analysis of Ethylene Responsive Factors Associated with Stress Responses in Wheat
Authors: Aamer Hareem , Gul Alvina , Amir Rabia , Hayat Muhammad Qasim , Munir Faiza , Bakhtiar Syeda Marriam , Babar Mustafeez , Khalid Zoya
Published: November 2020

Background: Transcription factors have largely been involved in the qualitative and quantitative regulation of gene expression. Among the diverse transcription factor families, AP2 (Apetala2) /ERF (Ethylene responsive factors superfamily is a well-known plant family of proteins for controlling various and diverse stress responses in plants. Ethylene responsive factors (ERF) are known to be vital for generating various stress responses.Results: A total of 181 TaERF proteins were identified in Triticum aestivum. Phylogenetic analysis, conserved motif analysis, chromosomal localization, gene structure analysis and multiple sequence alignment of ERF genes along with protein- protein interaction network analysis was performed. The phylogenetic analysis led to classification of these ERF members into 10 major groups and provided evolutionary relationship among the groups on the basis of similar protein motifs like which include WLG and 15 others. Further analysis revealed exon number, molecular weight, isoelectric point, and length of proteins. Gene ontology analysis concluded that TaERF were involved in responses to many Stressors, revealing their possible function. Sub cellular localization revealed that most of the proteins were confined to nucleus, cytoplasm and mitochondria. Network analysis provided insight of proteins involved in generating responses to stresses based on topological analysis and betweeness centrality of the network based on network theory.Conclusions: Genome-wide identification, gene structure, phylogeny and network analysis of TaERF proteins in Triticum aestivum supplied a solid theoretical foundation for the functional study of TaERF family. The bioinformatics analyses of 181 TaERF were implemented systematically revealing proteins characteristics and structural information.
Cross-cultural information for Japanese nurses at an international hospital: a controlled before-after intervention study
Authors: Nishikawa Mariko , Yamanaka Masaaki , Shibanuma Akira , Kiriya Junko , Jimba Masamine
Published: November 2020

BackgroundOverseas visitors to Japan steadily increased for a decade until the pandemic of 2020. In 2019, 31.8 million people visited the country due to an easing of restrictions and an emphasis on tourism. Nurses are the forefront of the healthcare system when they interact with those overseas visitors at a clinic or hospital. The goal of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of providing health information, through an ordinary travel guidebook or a short digital cartoon by measuring the anxiety level of Japanese nurses who deal with foreign patients.MethodOur approach involves a controlled before-after intervention study from January to March in 2016 at a major international hospital in Japan. We surveyed nurses at three wards of the hospital who understood English and cared for foreign patients as the 1st intervention group. Following which, we collected data from the same 1st intervention group, but now considered as the 2nd intervention group. Nurses in the 1st intervention group read health information in a travel guidebook for Japan. Nurses in the 2nd intervention read health information in the guidebook and watched a four-minute digital cartoon in English on health services in Japan, titled Mari Info. After each intervention, the nurses answered a self-questionnaire, wherein we assessed their level of anxiety to care for foreign patients. We evaluated the results through statistical testing and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y (STAI-Y).ResultsOf 111 nurses, 83 (74.8%) completed both interventions and a questionnaire. Reading the guidebook as well as watching a digital cartoon, as the 2nd intervention was more effective in reducing the level of anxiety to care for foreign patients compared to reading only the guidebook.ConclusionsJapanese nurses can lower their anxieties on dealing with foreign patients by knowing the various forms of healthcare information currently accessible to overseas visitors in both guidebooks and digital content. This helps them learn the ethical concerns and cultural norms of foreign patients they might care for.
THE INCREASING ROLE OF THE DIGITAL BODY IN THE HUMAN CAPITAL: CHANGES IN THE NATURE IF COMMUNICATIONS
Authors:   Moscow State Institute of International Relations, KRAVCHENKO SERGEY
Published: November 2020

The research is conditioned by the necessity to analyze new opportunities for the development of the human capital and the challenges to it, caused by the digital transformation. It is substantiated that under the influence of the time arrow effects (I. Prigozhin) the development of the human capital goes at an accelerating pace and in a more complicated way in the context of the formation of the complex socio-digital-natural reality. The process of the digitalization has an ambivalent impact on the content and character of the human capital: on the one hand, individuals, starting from their early socialization, use smart machines for self-development, communicate not only with their parents and peers, as it used to be, but practically with people around the world, grasping the diversity of cultures and creating their “digital bodies”; however, on the other hand, the digitalization depletes the values of their own world of life, minimizes face-to-face communication, dehumanizes education and training; however, on the other hand, digitalization dilutes the values of their own life world, minimizes face-to-face communications, and dehumanizes the education at “McUniversities” (G. Ritzer). Accordingly, there are limits to how the digital transformation can be used to develop the human capital. The challenges of COVID-19 to the functionality of the human capital at both the global and local levels are particularly addressed. At the same time, in the author’s opinion, U. Beck’s idea of the “metamorphosis of the world”, expressed in the emergence of the “positive side effects of the bads”, is applicable to the pandemic. In this connection, it is argued that the qualitatively new opportunities for the development of the human capital under conditions of the socio-natural turbulence and the coexistence of people with viruses are emerging in a non-linear way, including: the emergence of the homo epidemiologicus as a new social type - an individual who during his/her life reflexes to the epidemiological situation; the transition to the digital medical surveillance with a humanistic orientation; the distant treatment of those who have fallen ill according to the data of their “digital body”; the creation of the prerequisites for recognizing the unity of the human capital of the peoples of the world.
PATIENT - HEALTH CARE PROVIDER COMMUNICATION IN THE DIGITAL ERA
Authors:   Moscow State Institute of International Relations, DMITRIEVA ELENA
Published: November 2020

The paper gives an overview of digital health components and their role in individual and collective health including telemedicine, artificial intelligence for health, wearable devices, mobile phones and mobile health. A particular focus is given to mobile health that significantly improve health care provider - patient communication, ensure maximum coverage with minimum resources, influence behavior change communication and stimulate healthy lifestyle. Mobile health application may vary from prevention risky behavior among patients, ensuring proper treatment and rehabilitation of the patients with various form of addictions, providing information on health to various target groups. The article gives examples of such programs and their effectiveness.
THE IMPLICATIONS OF DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS EXPANSION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN CAPITAL: THE COGNITIVE POTENTIAL OF SOCIOLOGICAL APPROACHES
Authors:   Moscow State Institute of International Relations, ZARUBINA NATALIA
Published: November 2020

What is the impact of the digitalization of society, primarily of the communicative sphere, on its human capital? Will the new generations, whose abilities and capabilities have been enhanced by digital technology, be more educated and more efficient than the previous ones? Or does the proliferation of new technologies have side effects in the form of restrictions on the growth of human capital, which will lead to impoverishment, diminution of the capabilities of the modern worker? Similar questions arose during the formation of each new technological order, and were first expressed by Plato in the dialogue Phaedrus, where he asks whether people will forget how to remember, having learned to write. They are also relevant in the era of digitalization. Sociologists have always been interested in the consequences of the development of technology and technology for society, its structures and institutions, for the perception of a person. A sociological view of the consequences of digitalization makes it possible to identify not only the advantages, but also new cultural, structural and institutional constraints for human capital - the spread of clip consciousness, shifting to decision-making machines, the loss of reliability of educational content and the risks of inaccurate information, the growth of the supply of unskilled labor based on digital platforms, transformation of the employee’s attitude and requirements to working conditions, etc...
STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC MODEL OF COMMUNICATION
Authors:   Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation, AMCUAB KONSTANTIN
Published: November 2020

The article considers the strategic management carried out on the basis of a strategic plan, which includes among the main provisions and components of models for applying methods and methods of communication. According to the author, strategic communication planning is a process of bringing the communication structure and function in line with the main goals of the organization. The so-called strategic communications matrix, which is the focus of marketing research, includes those communication models that fit into the system of strategic communications, involve all stakeholders in the communication process, and optimize communication efforts. Considering the aspects of the development of strategic planning in Russia, the author comes to the conclusion that in the Soviet period of development, the goals of strategic planning were not expressed in the plan of strategic communications, which is a tool for managing all communication structures and processes included in the system of strategic management of the development of a particular object.
THE PROCESS OF ACCEPTING POLITICAL VALUES AND THE DYNAMICS OF DEVELOPMENT OF THE INSTITUTE OF CIVIL PARTICIPATION IN YOUTH ENVIRONMENT
Authors:   Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University, OBUKHOVA IULIIA , SAFONOVA ANNA , ARKANNIKOVA MARINA , TANOVA ANNA
Published: November 2020

This article reflects the results of a study of the value orientations of modern student youth and the features of its civic participation. The political socialization of modern youth is becoming an important factor in the manifestation of its civic political activity. Political literacy of youth is achieved not only due to its inclusion in the educational process and the study of relevant disciplines (political science, sociology, geopolitics, etc.), but also thanks to modern communication technologies. However, even the formation of the so-called “media literacy” always entails active political participation; absenteeism has been and remains the predominant feature of the political behavior of the majority of the young generation. The spirit of rebellion traditionally attributed to youth is not always manifested even in the form of a protest vote, which is facilitated by the lack of confidence in the effectiveness of the electoral political mechanism as a response to a request for justice. The survey allowed us to draw conclusions about the basic political values of youth (freedom, legitimacy, a request for social justice), and revealed the attitude of young people to various forms of civic participation, as well as their willingness to be active in the political sphere.
Thermal and Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis of Oily Extracts of Microalgae: Production of Biokerosene
Authors: Fonseca Noyala , Oliveira Victor , Fréty Roger , Sales Emerson
Published: November 2020

Three different microalgae species, Desmodesmus sp., Nannochloropsis oculata and Halamphora coffeaeformis were grown under controlled conditions. The resulting dry biomass was characterized by TG-DTA (thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis) and extracted with three solvents having different polarities. The extracts gross mass yields varied from 2% using n-hexane to 23% (or 74% when subtracting the volatiles and ashes) when using methanolchloroform whatever the microalgae species. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of all extracts suggested the presence of fatty esters and acids. The extracts were pyrolyzed at 600 °C, using a micro pyrolizer coupled to a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS), without and with γ-alumina as catalyst. Hydrocarbons concentrations varied respectively from 92% in the better case to 46% in the worst case. The C9-C15 fraction of these hydrocarbons, potentially useful for biokerosene formulation, was object of detailed analysis. In this fraction, nitrogenous products had concentrations always lower than 0.1%. The main hydrocarbons produced were linear 1-alkenes for thermal pyrolysis whereas for pyrolysis with γ-alumina, linear 1-alkenes and also alkenes isomers and linear alkanes, together with cyclic and aromatic compounds were observed for all microalgae species, but in different proportions. The C9-C15 fraction of pyrolyzed extracts can be considered as precursor for biokerosene or direct “drop in” fuel for kerosene petroleum fraction.
Zambia: Editorial Comment -COVID-19 -Epidemiological Thought on Why Politics and Religion are Compromising the Fight
Authors:   University of Zambia, Chiluba Brian Chanda , Shula Hastings ,   The University of Zambia
Published: November 2020

One of the good tenets of epidemiology is the fact that it offers skeptical disposition. Institutionalized skepticism is important in science and policymaking.In the case of Zambia,skepticism questions why the proponents of COVID-19guidelines and prescriptions have become the ardent violators of the guidelines they espouse. Such practices among political leaders is paralyzing, especially in contexts of information and messages from WHO at this critical juncture that call for pragmatism-especially with the peak of a pandemic curve and surging infection rate, considering that we do not have additional alternative interventions apart from adhering to non-pharmaceutical interventions such as social distancing, staying at home, wearing masks and hand hygiene. Deliberate and unnecessary political and religious gatherings inaction carries the risk of dire consequences, some of which have already led to suspected COVID-19 deaths of members of parliament and hospitalization of a size able number of political leaders.Despite all these the proceedings of parliament remained active as though COVID-19 is history.Such reckless political gatherings question the governance ethos of public health epidemiology instituted by the same people violating them. Religious leaders are not immune to this vice-a number of COVID-19-related deaths have passed through churches with body viewings being conducted. It should be mentioned that such behaviors have led to preventing action against COVID-19 outrunning evidence, or at least helping evidence to catch up.A myopic continued action of ignoring COVID-19 guidelines by politicians and religious leaders isa disservice to epidemiology.
Risk Factors of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Recurrence
Authors: EKİNCİ Özgür , LEBLEBİCİ Metin , ACAR Mehmet , EROL Cem Ilgın , ALİMOĞLU Orhan
Published: November 2020

Aim: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are the most common mesenchymal neoplasia of gastrointestinal system. Radical surgery with negative margin is the most important step for treatment of GIST. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for recurrence in patients who underwent surgery with diagnosis of GIST. Secondary aim was to reveal the factors that affect survival.

Materials and Methods: The data of 28 GIST patients who underwent surgery in our clinic between January 2013 and August 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients preoperative radiological images, histopathological and immunohistochemical findings were noted.

Results: Eighteen patients were male, and ten patients were female. Median age was 64.5 (range; 50-87). Twenty-six patients (92.2%) underwent open surgery and 2 patients (7.1%) underwent laparoscopic surgery. Fifteen (53.6%) of the 28 tumors were located in the stomach, 10 (35.7%) in the small intestine, 2 (7.1%) in the duodenum and 1 (3.6%) was located multifocal. Mean tumor diameter was 10.1 cm (range; 0.5-21). The number of patients with recurrence was 5 (17.9%). Tumor with necrosis, tumor located in an organ other than the stomach, and the high number of tumor mitosis revealed a significant difference for recurrence. In addition, large tumor size revealed significant statistical difference for recurrence. The median follow-up period was 26 (3-60) months. Necrosis of tumor and tumor type were the factors that significantly shortened survival.

Conclusion: In this study which we examined the GIST recurrence, it was observed that tumor size, tumor necrosis, increased number of mitosis and tumors located in an organ other than stomach are risk factors for recurrence. In this study which we examined GIST recurrence, tumor size, tumor necrosis, increased number of mitoses and tumors located in an organ other than the stomach are found to be risk factors for recurrence. It was observed that the factors affecting the survival times, which are the secondary aim of the study, were cell type and tumor necrosis.
Chemical Profiling of Chlorophytum comosum (Thunb.) Jaques by GC-MS/LC-ESIMS and its Antiproliferative Effects on Human Carcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: Adhami Shehla , Farooqi Humaira , Abdin Malik Z. , Prasad Ram , Malik Asrar A.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Chlorophytum comosum, popularly known as Spider Ivy, is used as a medicinal plant in
traditional Chinese medicine, however, its detailed chemical composition and biological activity are yet
unexplored.

Objective:

To carry out the phytochemical investigation on different parts of Chlorophytum comosum using GCMS/
LC-ESI-MS and evaluation of its antioxidant, hemolytic and antiproliferative potential on breast cancer
(MCF-7), lung cancer (A549, H1299) and normal lung (L-132) cell lines.

Methods:

Chemical constituents from aqueous roots and leaves extracts were identified using LC-ESI-MS/GCMS.
The identified compounds were annotated based on the match of mass spectra with the literature using NIST
14 and METLIN databases. Antioxidant activity was studied using DPPH, FRAP and TPC assays. The
antiproliferative effects of ethanolic roots and leaves extracts of Chlorophytum comosum were measured by MTT
assay on breast cancer (MCF-7), lung cancer (A549 & H1299) and normal lung (L-132) cell lines. The toxicity
studies of the extracts were carried out using Hemolysis assay.

Results:

GC-MS analysis identified 34 metabolites in roots and 17 from leaves, while 17 compounds from roots
and 7 from leaves were detected by LC-ESI-MS. Significant antiproliferative effects were observed on the A549
and MCF-7 cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 56.86 μg/ml to 68.68 μg/ml while no marked
response was observed against normal cell line L-132.

Conclusion:

Our study represents the first report on the detailed chemical composition and antiproliferative
potential of Chlorophytum comosum against lung and breast cancer cell lines.
Phyto-synthesized Gold Nanoparticles as Antitumor Agents
Authors: Teodor Eugenia Dumitra , Radu Gabriel Lucian
Published: November 2020

Background::

Phyto, or plant-derived metal nanoparticles, are an interesting and intensive
studied group of green synthesized nanoparticles. In the last decade, numerous medicinal plant
extracts were used for the synthesis of stable gold or silver nanoparticles with diverse biological effects,
such as antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory activity, hypoglycemic
effect, antitumor activity and catalytic activity.

Results::

This review has systematized and discussed information from the last 5 years about the research
regarding antitumor/anticancer potential of gold nanoparticles obtained via medicinal plant
extracts, with special attention on their selective cytotoxicity on tumor cells and on their mechanism
of action, in vitro and in vivo assessments.

Conclusion::

Much more in vivo and clinical studies are needed before considering phyto-synthesized
gold nanoparticles as significant for future medicine.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase as a Novel Therapeutic Target: An Endless Story
Authors: Etman Ahmed Mohamed , Abdel Mageed Sherif Sabry , Ali Mohamed Ahmed , El Hassab Mahmoud Abd El Monem
Published: November 2020

Cyclin-Dependent Kinases (CDKs) are a family of enzymes that, along with their Cyclin
partners, play a crucial role in cell cycle regulation at many biological functions such as proliferation,
differentiation, DNA repair, and apoptosis. Thus, they are tightly regulated by a number of inhibitory
and activating enzymes. Deregulation of these kinases’ activity either by amplification,
overexpression or mutation of CDKs or Cyclins leads to uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells.
Hyperactivity of these kinases has been reported in a wide variety of human cancers. Hence, CDKs
have been established as one of the most attractive pharmacological targets in the development of
promising anticancer drugs. The elucidated structural features and the well-characterized molecular
mechanisms of CDKs have been the guide in designing inhibitors to these kinases. Yet, they remain
a challenging therapeutic class as they share conserved structure similarity in their active site.
Several inhibitors have been discovered from natural sources or identified through high throughput
screening and rational drug design approaches. Most of these inhibitors target the ATP binding
pocket, therefore, they suffer from a number of limitations. Here, a growing number of ATP noncompetitive
peptides and small molecules has been reported.
Withdrawn: Potential Role of Curcumin in amelioration of Skin
Diseases: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Bhumika , Aggarwal Rohan , Prakash Udai , Sahoo P. K.
Published: November 2020

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the editor of the journal Current Traditional Medicine due to
incoherent content.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

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The Emergence of Novel Coronavirus Disease, Global Treatment Update and its Containment Strategies in Overpopulated Countries: A Review
Authors: Azim Fazli , Islam Md Shahidul , Saju Hedaeytullah , Fatema Kaniz , Hayat Aneela , Kamal Mostofa , Sarfraz Md , Muhammad Nawshad , Rizvi Syed A.A.
Published: November 2020

:

The ongoing pandemic of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has created
a major challenge for the public health worldwide. The reported cases indicate that the outbreak is
more widespread than initially assumed. Around 18 million people have been infected with
689,000 reported deaths (August 2020; the number is increasing daily); with a high mutation rate,
this virus poses an even more serious threat worldwide. The actual source of COVID-19 is still unclear;
even if the initial reports link it to the Chinese seafood wet market in Wuhan, other animals
such as birds, snakes, and many small mammals including bats are also linked with this novel coronavirus.
The structure of the COVID-19 shows distinctive proteins among which spike proteins
have a pivotal role in host cell attachment and virus-cell membrane fusion in order to facilitate
virus infection. Currently, no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine is available. Various drug candidates,
including SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV protease inhibitors, neuraminidase inhibitors, RNA
synthesis inhibitors, ACE2 inhibitors and lungs supportive therapy, are under trials. Cell-based therapy
also appeared with remarkable treatment possibilities. In this article, we endeavored to
succinctly cover the current and available treatment options, including pharmaceuticals, cell-based
therapy, and traditional medicine. We also focused on the extent of damages by this novel coronavirus
in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh; the strategies adopted and the research activities initiated
so far by these densely populated countries (neighboring China) are explained in this review.
COVID-19: A Daily Dose of Yoga to Cope with Anxiety
Authors: Gautam Surabhi , Dada Rima
Published: November 2020

:

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has undoubtedly created unbearable psychological
pressure on our minds such as anxiety, fear, worry, changing sleep patterns, changing
eating patterns, worsening of existing chronic or mental health conditions, etc. There is an urgent
need for the adoption of an effective coping strategy. We propose that yoga-based intervention
may aid in improving mental and physical health with its multi-faceted dimensions.
Macroprudential regulation as part of the Mexican policy toolkit
Authors: Zarazúa Juárez Carlos Alberto
Published: November 2020

The objective of this work is to assess the effect of implementing countercyclical macroprudential regulation in Mexico with the objective of verify whether this type of policy is welfare-improving. Using a DSGE model, two kinds of macroprudential rules are tested: countercyclical bank capital requirements and countercyclical loan-to-value ratios. Results suggest that these rules are welfare-improving and avoid the formation of credit bubbles as well as facilitate loans in the presence of macroeconomic crises. Results suggest that the use of countercyclical rules is effective in keeping the debt level according to its long-term equilibrium. This paper presents a theoretical framework to analyze banking regulation for policy purposes and is the first attempt to analyze countercyclical regulation in Mexico using a microfounded model. Results can be used to rationalize the use of macroprudential tools during the COVID‑19 pandemic given the current interventions in the Mexican banking system.
Oil price effect on sectoral stock returns: A conditional covariance and correlation approach for Mexico
Authors: Fernández Rafaelly Rodrigo A. Morales , Santillán-Salgado Roberto J.
Published: November 2020

This paper analyzes the relationship between the volatility of oil price and selected sectoral stock returns in Mexico (industrials, materials, financials and consumer discretionary) by implementing a Diagonal VECH-type bivariate GARCH model in order to estimate conditional covariances and correlations. The econometric results suggest that there exists a statistically significant relationship between sector indices, as well as between Mexico’s aggregate stock exchange returns, and variations in oil prices. Conditional correlations suggest that during most of the analyzed period, the relationship between oil price fluctuations and sectoral stock returns is positive. The recommendation, supported by these results, is that investors should take into consideration the interaction between the analyzed variables in order to generate more robust risk-hedge strategies. An important limitation for this work is information availability at sector level in the country. The original contribution of this paper lies mainly in the analysis of the influence of oil prices over sectoral indices of the Mexican Stock Exchange. These results provide more support to the current that suggests that a price increase in oil has a direct spillover effect on stock market performance.
Spillovers entre los principales Mercados Accionarios de Latinoamérica, Estados Unidos y el Mercado Petrolero
Authors: Rodríguez Benavides Domingo , Muller Durán Nancy , Climent Hernández José Antonio
Published: November 2020

El presente artículo analiza los spillovers tanto en los rendimientos como entre sus volatilidades existentes entre el precio internacional del petróleo y los principales mercados bursátiles de América Latina y Estados Unidos. Con base en la metodología de Diebold y Yilmaz (2009, 2012), construimos un índice de spillovers (IS) para los rendimientos y otro para las volatilidades. Los resultados muestran que el primer índice tiene mayores efectos en comparación con lo obtenido por el segundo y que existe una interdependencia débil entre los rendimientos de los mercados bursátiles analizados y los del mercado petrolero.
Further Understanding of Uncertainties in the Impedance Spectrum of the Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell due to Inductive Effects and Oxygen Diffusion Time Constant
Authors:   School of Engineering, University of Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN6 7TS, United Kingdom, Cruz-Manzo Samuel
Published: November 2020

In this study, uncertainties during the assessment of the electrochemical impedance spectrum of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) attributed to inductive artefacts at high frequencies and inductive loops at low frequencies as well as oxygen diffusion time constant are discussed. A validated impedance model represented as an equivalent electrical circuit of a PEFC allowed the simulation of the effect of inductive artefacts, inductive loops and oxygen diffusion time constant on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements represented in the Nyquist plot. This study considers EIS measurements reported in previous studies and provides an insight into the EIS measurements with positive imaginary components at high frequencies attributed to the intrinsic inductance of the measurement cables during EIS tests and at low frequencies attributed to electrochemical mechanisms (e.g. side reactions with intermediate species) during PEFC operation. In addition, an overview of overlapping mechanisms (charge transfer and oxygen transport resistances during the oxygen reduction reaction) on the PEFC impedance spectrum attributed to oxygen diffusion across the cathode catalyst layer is presented. EIS measurements with positive imaginary components and with overlapping effects could yield to ambiguities when studying or relating electrochemical mechanisms (ion conduction, capacitance, charge transfer and mass transport resistances) of the PEFC through a defined single frequency or a single measured value represented in the Nyquist complex-impedance plot.
Association of Mobile Instant Messaging Chat Group Participation With Family Functioning and Well-Being: Population-Based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Zhao Sheng Zhi , Luk Tzu Tsun , Guo Ningyuan , Wang Man Ping , Lai Agnes Yuen Kwan , Wong Bonny Yee Man , Fong Daniel Yee Tak , Chan Sophia Siu Chee , Lam Tai Hing
Published: November 2020

Background

Convenient and quality family communication improves family functioning and well-being. Using mobile instant messaging (IM) for family communication is increasingly popular, but its association with family functioning and family well-being has not been reported.

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the association of the use of family IM chat groups with family functioning and well-being, and the mediating effect of family communication quality among Chinese adults in Hong Kong.

Methods

We analyzed data from the Family and Health Information Trend Survey (FHInTS), a territory-wide, probability-based telephone survey conducted in 2017. The quality of family communication, family functioning, and well-being was assessed using the Family Communication Scale; Family Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve (APGAR) Scale; and Family Well-Being Scale (family heath, harmony, and happiness), respectively. Respondents also reported the number of family IM chat groups (0, 1, 2, ≥3), and numbers of IM messages received (<1, 1-2, 3-10, 11-20, >20) and sent (<1, 1-2, 3-10, 11-20, >20) daily. The frequency of family IM chat interaction (range 0-8) was calculated by combining the number of messages received from and sent to the family IM chat groups daily. Covariates included sociodemographic characteristics and the frequency of family face-to-face communication (often, sometimes, seldom, or never). Data were weighted by sex, age, and education of the general population. Adjusted β coefficients of family functioning and well-being in relation to having a family IM chat group, and numbers of messages received and sent were calculated. The mediation effects of family communication on these associations were assessed, controlling for the covariates.

Results

A random sample of 1638 Chinese adults (45.6% men; 78.1% aged 25 to 64 years) were interviewed (response rate: 74.4%). Female, younger age, being married or cohabiting, higher education, higher income, better family functioning, and well-being were associated with having at least one family IM chat group (all P<.01). Higher scores of family communication, family APGAR, and family well-being were associated with having more family IM chat groups and more messages received from and sent to family IM chat groups daily (all P for trend <.01). More frequent family IM chat interaction was associated with higher scores of family communication, family APGAR, and family well-being (β=.16-.83, all P for trend <.001). The associations of family IM chat interaction with family functioning and well-being were moderately (51.0%-59.6%) mediated by family communication.

Conclusions

Use of a family IM chat group was associated with higher family functioning and well-being, and the association was partially mediated by family communication.
Evaluating the Experiences of New and Existing Teledermatology Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hamad Judy , Fox Amy , Kammire Maria Suzanne , Hollis Alison Nancy , Khairat Saif
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

As teledermatology has been widely adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to examine patients’ experiences and satisfaction with teledermatology.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to assess the teledermatology experiences of new and existing clinic patients in the context of the rapid shift toward teledermatology practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 184 teledermatology patients who were assessed during the COVID-19 pandemic at a major southeastern medical center from May 13 to June 5, 2020. The primary outcome was patient satisfaction levels among new and existing patients. The secondary outcome was patients’ willingness to use teledermatology in the future.

RESULTS

Of the 288 teledermatology patients who were assessed during the study period, 184 (63.9%) completed the survey. Patients reported high overall satisfaction with teledermatology, with 86.4% (159/184) of participants reporting positive overall satisfaction and experiences with teledermatology. New patients had significantly higher Likert scores for overall satisfaction with teledermatology than those of follow-up patients (new patients: mean 4.70; existing patients: mean 4.43; P=.03). Overall, patients’ satisfaction with teledermatology did not significantly differ based on age (P=.36), race and ethnicity (P=.46), education level (P=.11), residence (P=.74), or insurance status (P=.74). There were no significant differences in overall satisfaction between patients with and without prior telehealth experience (P=.53), between the video and telephone visit types (P=.17), and among platform types (P=.22). Prior telehealth experience was associated with higher odds of being willing to use telehealth in the future (odds ratio 2.39, 95% CI 1.31-4.35; P=.004).

CONCLUSIONS

This cross-sectional survey study demonstrates that during the rapid expansion of teledermatology, new clinic patients had significantly higher scores for overall satisfaction with their teledermatology experience compared to those of established clinic patients (P=.03). Prior telehealth experience was associated with higher odds of being willing to use teledermatology in the future. Overall, teledermatology expansion was met with high levels of patient satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Comparative Study between Xinyang Dialects and Putonghua
Authors: Yuan Ying
Published: November 2020

Xinyang dialects have their own intricate characteristics. On the basis of field investigation, this paper compares, describes and analyzes the differences between Xinyang dialects and Putonghua, Xinyang dialects and other dialects in terms of semantic domain. The differences between Xinyang dialects and Putonghua in the number of elements are mainly manifested in the sememes that represent space and time or are related to them. Due to the blurred boundaries caused by the continuity of these sememes, the scope of the sememes of the same shape is different. However, there are differences in the amount of element content of sememe, which are embodied in the concept of sememe reference in some dialects and the concept of reference species in others. This paper makes a comparative analysis of the features of other dialects, excavates the content of sememe in Xinyang dialects, and finds out the scope of words and their special combination characteristics.
SLOŽENOST KORPORATIVIZMA I TEŠKOĆE NJEGOVOG RAZUMEVANJA I ODREĐENJA
Authors: Gajic Novak
Published: November 2020

Korporativizam je složen politički fenomen dugog trajanja, velike složenosti i raznorodnosti, mnogostrukih oblika i lica. Ta složenost je uslovila različite teškoće njegovog razumevanja i određivanja, kao i različite pristupe tome. U ovome članku uporedno je prikazano šest poznatijih definicija korporativizma, karakterističnih po različitim gledištima na njega: društveno-organizacionom, institucionalnom, procesnom, institucionalno-procesnom, ekonomskom i doktrinarnom. Potom je ukazano na četiri teškoće za razumevanje i određenje korporativizma: različita značenja ovog pojma, širok spektar onoga što se pod njime podrazumeva, stigmatizacija samog izraza korporativizam i naposletku njegova pogrešna upotreba. Na kraju je iznet predlog minimalne definicije korporativizma, kojom se mogu obuhvatiti analizirane razlike i prevazići analizirane teškoće, koja bi ga dovoljno razlikovala od drugih političkih fenomena.
PROMENJENE OKOLNOSTI I RASPODELA RIZIKA U UGOVORNOM PRAVU
Authors: Karanikic Miric Marija
Published: November 2020

U evropskoj teoriji ugovornog prava odskora je poznata podela pravnih sistema na otvorene i zatvorene, prema tome da li poznaju posebna pravila o jednostranoj reviziji ugovora zbog promenjenih okolnosti. Otvoreni sistemi sadrže posebna pravila koja dopuštaju pravičnu izmenu sadržine punovažnog ugovora na zahtev strane koja je pogođena promenjenim okolnostima. Nije neophodno da se druga strana saglasi s traženom izmenom. Interesi druge ugovorne strane, koja je po definiciji savesna, štite se postavljanjem uslova pod kojima pogođena strana može da optira za reviziju. Izbor pogođene strane između raskida ugovora i revizije ugovorne sadržine nije u potpunosti slobodan. Zatvoreni sistemi nemaju posebna pravila o uticaju otežanog ispunjenja odnosno promenjenih okolnosti na obaveze ugovornih strana, a ako poznaju ovaj institut, onda ugovorniku koji je pogođen promenjenim okolnostima dopuštaju samo da raskine ugovor. Pogođena strana ne može da primora drugu stranu na ostanak u ugovoru izmenjene sadržine. Srpsko pravo se po ovom kriterijumu svrstava u zatvorene pravne sisteme, jer ne dopušta izmenu ugovora na zahtev strane koja je pogođena promenjenim okolnostima, već samo na zahtev ili uz pristanak druge ugovorne strane. Ugovorni poverilac trpi veću pravnu nesigurnost ako za sudsku izmenu ugovorne sadržine nije neophodan njegov pristanak. Stoga se u ovom radu razmatra pitanje raspodele rizika promenjenih okolnosti.
POLITIČKO-SOCIJALNI OSNOVI PRAVA NA EUTANAZIJU
Authors: Golijan Iva
Published: November 2020

Problem eutanazije predstavlja dodirno područje etike, prava i politike. U ovom tekstu, koji nastoji da pruži doprinos stručnoj javnoj raspravi o uvođenju eutanazije u srpsko zakonodavstvo, najpre je terminološki jasno preciziran sam termin – eutanazija (kao pravo na dostojanstvenu smrt). Nadalje, u tekstu se razmatra kakve su obaveze drugih lica koje proističu iz ovog prava i pod kojim uslovima obaveze drugih lica, koje proističu iz pomenutog prava, predstavljaju ograničavanje njihovih prava ličnosti.
Navođenjem primera iz područja etike i prava, u tekstu se konstatuje da je razlikovanje aktivne i pasivne eutanazije zapravo proizvod neadekvatnog promišljanja prilikom izvođenja ove diferencije.
Koristeći obilnu literaturu, koja sa pravnog i etičkog aspekta problematizuje eutanaziju, autor dolazi do zaključka da je pravo na dostojanstvenu smrt društvena vrednost koju treba zakonski oblikovati, tako da budu predupređene moguće zloupotrebe – a istovremeno izbegnuto svaljivanje bremena odgovornosti na druga lica (svejedno da li se radi o subjektima iz pravosuđa ili medicine), koja treba da sprovedu pacijentovu želju da dostojanstveno umre. U tom smislu, pravo na dostojanstvenu smrt predstavlja političko pitanje. Takođe, autor je nastojao da u ovom tekstu fundira uverenje da srpsko zakonodavstvo treba da pravno oblikuje uslove za aktivnu direktnu eutanaziju.
Zalazak: Kriza Evropske unije i pad Rimske republike – nekoliko povjesnih analogija
Authors: Dostanic Dusan
Published: November 2020

Prikaz knjige: Davida Engelsa, Zalazak: Kriza Evropske unije i pad Rimske republike – nekoliko povjesnih analogija. Zagreb: Litteris. 344 str.
OPRAVDANjA I OGRANIČENJA ARANŽMANA NETERITORIJALNE MANJINSKE AUTONOMIJE U LIBERALNOJ DEMOKRATIJI
Authors: Djuric Vladimir
Published: November 2020

U radu se analiziraju opravdanja i ograničenja institucionalnih aranžmana manjinske neteritorijalne autonomije u liberalnoj demokratiji. Opravdanje za uspostavljanje takvih aranžmana nalazi se u potrebi za prihvatanjem koncepta kolektivnih prava i zastupanja manjinskih kolektiviteta kao njihovog titulara. S druge strane, u liberalnoj demokratiji postoje inherentna ograničenja u pogledu konstituisanja, vrste i obima ovlašćenja koja takvi aranžmani mogu da obavljaju.