bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calidad de contenidos en dominios de educación. Evaluación de la Accesibilidad Web mediada por validadores automáticos
Authors: Pagnoni Veronica , Mariño Sonia I.
Published: January 2019

El artículo presenta un estudio referente al cumplimiento de los estándares establecidos según el World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) respecto de la accesibilidad. En el estudio se aplicaron dos validadores a las páginas web pertenecientes a un portal educativo estatal, cuyo objetivo es brindar formación continua a docentes. La metodología comprende una investigación bibliográfica documental, la evaluación de las páginas seleccionadas utilizando diferentes herramientas, el análisis de los resultados y la redacción de conclusiones. Las validaciones, se debe destacar, se realizaron aplicando las herramientas T.A.W. y EvalAccess 2.0 a cinco páginas representativas del portal. Los resultados, por otra parte, se analizaron considerando las Pautas de Accesibilidad para el Contenido WCAG 2.0 establecidas por el W3C. Como propuestas futuras, se optará por la utilización de otras herramientas específicas y la validación manual del código
Impacto del aula invertida durante el proceso educativo sobre las derivadas
Authors: Salas-Rueda Ricardo-Adán , Lugo-García José-Luis
Published: January 2019

Esta investigación cuantitativa tiene como objetivo analizar la incorporación del aula invertida en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje sobre las matemáticas. La muestra está conformada por 88 estudiantes de la Facultad de Negocios que cursaron la asignatura Matemáticas básicas para los negocios durante el ciclo escolar 2016. Este estudio analiza el impacto del aula invertida para la compresión, habilidad, aplicación y utilidad de las derivadas. Por medio de la regresión, estas variables son utilizadas para la construcción de cuatro modelos de pronóstico relacionados con las calificaciones del examen parcial. Los resultados obtenidos permiten señalar que el aula invertida representa una estrategia didáctica innovadora, creativa e idónea para facilitar la asimilación y aplicación del conocimiento en el área de las matemáticas.
Fractal Symmetric Phases of Matter
Authors: Devakul Trithep , You Yizhi , Burnell F. J. , Sondhi Shivaji
Published: January 2019

We study spin systems which exhibit symmetries that act on a fractal
subset of sites, with fractal structures generated by linear cellular
automata. In addition to the trivial symmetric paramagnet and
spontaneously symmetry broken phases, we construct additional fractal
symmetry protected topological (FSPT) phases via a decorated defect
approach. Such phases have edges along which fractal symmetries are
realized projectively, leading to a symmetry protected degeneracy along
the edge. Isolated excitations above the ground state are symmetry
protected fractons, which cannot be moved without breaking the symmetry.
In 3D, our construction leads additionally to FSPT phases protected by
higher form fractal symmetries and fracton topologically ordered phases
enriched by the additional fractal symmetries.
IDF curves for future climate scenarios in a locality of the Tapajós Basin, Amazon, Brazil
Authors: de Souza Costa Carlos Eduardo Aguiar , Blanco Claudio José Cavalcante , de Oliveira-Júnior José Francisco
Published: January 2019

Changes in the global climate are attributed to the levels of greenhouse gases. Thus, future scenarios (Representative Concentration Pathways – RCPs) have been developed to explore the impact of different climate policies on the world. The RCPs are essential tools for General Circulation Models (GCMs) to simulate future climate changes. Curves that associate Intensity, Duration and Frequency (IDF) are used in forecasts and are fundamental for the design of hydraulic projects and risk management. The objective of this study was to design IDF curves for the RCP 4.5 and 8.5, using data from the HadGEM2-ES, CanESM2 and MIROC5 models. The Equidistance Quantile Matching Method was used to design the IDF curves. The simulated curves presented differences when related to the existing curve. The largest differences were for the MIROC5 (146% in RCP 8.5) and the smallest differences were for the CanESM2 (−20.83% for RCP 8.5). This result demonstrates that the method incorporates changes in future climate variability. The spatial resolutions of each model influenced their IDF curves, which led the CanESM2 curves to not present satisfactory results that are different from the MIROC5 curves, which were the ones that best represented the possible future differences.
Possibilities of statistical methodology in the study of economic security of the region
Authors: Dianov Dmitry V. , Radugina Elena A.
Published: January 2019

Economic security, following the physical protection and security rapidly broke into the life of modern domestic society. This is a huge, very theoretically capacious section of the management system and at the same time a variety of practical activities. As the state of any economic system, characterized by the ability to withstand any negative encroachment from any subject, institution, other systems, social environment, etc., both economic and financial security is estimated, in fact, a polygamous system of indicators on all aspects of financial and economic activity.

Purpose:therefore, the purpose of this scientific work, defined as the improvement of information support structures, decision-making in relation to economic security, fully meets the needs of management science and practice.

Materials and methods:At the same time, all the methods, necessary for the statistical study of economic and financial security are used in the work: at each stage, an extensive block of statistical tools is involved, represented by the methods of the general theory of statistics and mathematical statistics, including multidimensional groups – cluster analysis, correlation and regression methods. The official materials of the state statistics and Internal Affairs Bodies of the Russian Federation, as well as the official statistics of the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Moscow Region Government were used to perform practical calculations.

Results:A key aspect of this research work is related to the selection and formation of a set of statistical indicators, which in the interconnection and addition gave a complete comprehensive picture of the existing relationships and established patterns. These are demographic and resource indicators, and the results and efficiency of the economic complex. The use of the designated statistical tools allowed obtaining such results as justification of analytical capabilities and approbation of statistical methods in the study of economic security of the Moscow region; formation of clusters, consisting of homogeneous municipal districts of the Moscow region, designated as clustering units; calculation of relative analytical indicators; construction and interpretation of regression models.

Conclusion:the complex of the obtained results and conclusions, as well as the scientifically based algorithm of statistical tools application, tested in the work, are undoubtedly an important information component in the management of economic and financial security not only in the Moscow region, but also in any region, both in the Central Federal district and in the whole central Russia.
From Target Identification to Drug Development in Space: Using the Microgravity Assist
Authors: Braddock Martin
Published: January 2019

The unique nature of microgravity encountered in space provides an opportunity for drug
discovery and development that cannot be replicated on Earth. From the production of superior protein
crystals to the identification and validation of new drug targets to microarray analyses of transcripts
attenuated by microgravity, there are numerous examples which demonstrate the benefit of exploiting
the space environment. Moreover, studies conducted on Space Shuttle missions, the International
Space Station and other craft have had a direct benefit for drug development programmes such as those
directed against reducing bone and muscle loss or increasing bone formation. This review will highlight
advances made in both drug discovery and development and offer some future insight into how
drug discovery and associated technologies may be further advanced using the microgravity assist.
Emergence of Three Dimensional Printed Cardiac Tissue: Opportunities and Challenges in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Charbe Nitin B. , Zacconi Flavia C. , Amnerkar Nikhil , Pardhi Dinesh , Shukla Priyank , Mukattash Tareq L. , McCarron Paul A. , Tambuwala Murtaza M.
Published: January 2019

Three-dimensional (3D) printing, also known as additive manufacturing, was developed originally for engineering applications. Since its early advancements, there has been a relentless development in enthusiasm for this innovation in biomedical research. It allows for the fabrication of structures with both complex geometries and heterogeneous material properties. Tissue engineering using 3D bio-printers can overcome the limitations of traditional tissue engineering methods. It can match the complexity and cellular microenvironment of human organs and tissues, which drives much of the interest in this technique. However, most of the preliminary evaluations of 3Dprinted tissues and organ engineering, including cardiac tissue, relies extensively on the lessons learned from traditional tissue engineering. In many early examples, the final printed structures were found to be no better than tissues developed using traditional tissue engineering methods. This highlights the fact that 3D bio-printing of human tissue is still very much in its infancy and more work needs to be done to realise its full potential. This can be achieved through interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, biomaterial scientists and molecular cell biologists. This review highlights current advancements and future prospects for 3D bio-printing in engineering ex vivo cardiac tissue and associated vasculature, such as coronary arteries. In this context, the role of biomaterials for hydrogel matrices and choice of cells are discussed. 3D bio-printing has the potential to advance current research significantly and support the development of novel therapeutics which can improve the therapeutic outcomes of patients suffering fatal cardiovascular pathologies.
Double Infection in a Patient with Psoriatic Arthritis Under TNF-alpha Blockers Therapy: A Case Report
Authors: Caroleo Benedetto , Migliore Alberto , Cione Erika , Zampogna Stefania , Perticone Francesco , Sarro Giovambattista De , Gallelli Luca
Published: January 2019

Background:

Either direct or indirect tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha blockers are usually
used to treat psoriatic arthritis (PA), but their use can increase susceptibility to infectious diseases.

Case Presentation: We report a rare case of double skin-knee wound and lung non-tubercular infection
in a patient with PA under TNF-alpha blockers therapy. About 1 year after the beginning of adalimumab,
a 48-year-old smoker suffering of PA was hospitalized for the skin-knee wound.

Results: Clinical evaluation and biochemical markers excluded the presence of a systemic disease, and
a skin infection sustained by leishmaniasis probably related to adalimumab was diagnosed (Naranjo
score: 6). Adalimumab was discontinued and oral treatment with apremilast and topical treatment with
meglumine antimoniate was started with a complete remission of skin wound in 2 weeks. About 7
months later when the patient was under apremilast treatment, he presented to our observation for
dyspnea, cough and fever. High-Resolution Computer Tomography (HRCT) chest highlighted alveolar
involvement with centrilobular small nodules, branching linear and nodular opacities. Microbiological
culture of both broncho-alveolar lavage fluid and sputum documented an infection sustained by nontuberculous
mycobacteria. Even if apremilast treatment probably-induced lung infection, we can’t exclude
that it worsened a clinical condition induced by adalimumab. Apremilast was stopped and an
empirical antitubercular treatment was started. Patient's breathlessness and cough improved as confirmed
also by HRCT chest.

Conclusion: This case highlights the importance to consider the possibility to develop leishmaniasis
and/or non-tubercular mycobacterial infection in patients treated with TNF-alpha inhibitors.
Mephedrone Impact on Matrix Metalloproteinases Activity - Do they Influence the Memory Processes?
Authors: Boguszewska-Czubara Anna , Kurzepa Jacek , Biała Grażyna , Kaszubska Katarzyna , Grot Karolina , Tarkowski Piotr , Kowalczyk Joanna , Silvestro Serena , Faggio Caterina , Budzyńska Barbara
Published: January 2019

Background:

The use of drugs of addiction, as mephedrone, is associated with functional neuronal disorders due to remodeling of the nervous tissue. Key enzymes in remodeling are extracellular matrix (ECM) proteases like matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). Recently, MMPs have been of great interest as some studies point to a fact that the alterations in structural remodeling of synaptic connections modify learning-dependent changes, which remain active even after a prolonged period of abstinence. This entails a continuous development of dependence.

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to determine the influence of subchronic exposure to three different doses of mephedrone on the activity of MMP-2 and 9 in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex and how this was correlated with memory processes in mice.

Methods:

The homogenates of hippocampus and cortex were assayed for MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity by gelatin zymography. Memory consolidation processes were evaluated in the passive avoidance (PA) test.

Results:

The study confirmed the dose-dependent increase in activity of MMP-2 and -9 exerted by subchronic administration of mephedrone. Moreover, the highest dose of mephedrone attenuated consolidation of memory and learning processes.

Conclusions:

We could hypothesize that inhibition of MMPs can be considered as a therapeutic option for the treatment of addictive behaviors associated with cognitive processes. Moreover, further studies are required to find out if elevated activities of MMPs contribute to brain damage or recovery from brain damage caused directly by mephedrone.
Detection of the critical chloride threshold of carbon steel rebar in synthetic concrete pore solutions.
Authors: Ogunsanya Ibrahim Gbolahan , Hansson Carolyn M.
Published: January 2019

Knowledge of the critical chloride content in concrete required to initiate corrosion of reinforcing steel is economically beneficial for the assessment and maintenance of existing structures. Also, many building codes now specify a service life of 75 – 100 years for highway bridges and the critical chloride content is an essential input parameter in the models used in design of structures.  There have been numerous studies aimed at determining this parameter but there is no consensus because of the many factors influencing the corrosion.  The current standard methods, e.g. ASTM G109, require many weeks or months of testing and are not appropriate for testing large numbers of specimens in different conditions.

This project has demonstrated that a fairly rapid potentiodynamic polarization technique can be applied to carbon steel reinforcing bars in synthetic concrete pore solution to determine the critical value, as illustrated in the figure. The importance of selecting the appropriate synthetic concrete pore solution for this application is demonstrated by the different critical values obtained for different solutions. 

The success of this test will allow the influence of different reinforcing alloys and different cementitious material mixes on the critical chloride content to be determined in a reasonable period of time.
Exégesis del “Mar vítreo entreverado de fuego” (ap 15,2): posible interpretación como el cáliz eucarístico.
Authors: Zarzo Castelló Manuel
Published: January 2019

Revelation 15:2 mentions “a kind of sea of glass mingled with fre”. The expression “a kind of sea” suggests a fgurative sense, perhaps in reference to the Sea of Bronze of the ancient Temple (1 Kings 7:24-25), a huge hemispherical water tank called sea in the Old Testament. When the Apocalypse was written, it was customary for Christian communities from Jewish tradition to celebrate the Eucharist with the Jewish blessing cup reserved for Easter, inherited from previous generations. These cups were often made of semiprecious stone and were shaped like a bowl, which might justify their analogy with the sea. Moreover, some were translucent and veined if carved in agate, onyx or sardonyx, as is the case of the Holy Chalice venerated at Valencia Cathedral or some chalices at St Mark’s Basilica Museum in Venice. The sacred author might refer to a Eucharistic cup carved in stone in Rev 15:2, in relation to another “sea of glass” mentioned in Rev 4:6 that could allude to the baptismal font, and, as an antagonism to the “great winepress of God’s wrath” (14:19).
De gays y trans a diversidades sexo/genéricas: dos décadas de despenalización de la homosexualidad en Ecuador
Authors: Vega Suriaga Édgar
Published: January 2019

Este artículo problematiza la construcción del sujeto político gay y trans en veinte años de despenalización de la homosexualidad en Ecuador (1997-2017). Para ello, el autor revisa las implicaciones del tránsito de las siglas GLBTI al término “diversidades sexo/genéricas”; y analiza dicho tránsito en las implicaciones de dos discursividades que han nombrado a las diversidades sexo/genéricas en el país andino en las últimas dos décadas: la discursividad jurídica, y la discursividad estético/lúdica. Finaliza el análisis con una interpretación de una etnografía realizada en dos lugares de ocio gay en Quito.

A lo largo de todo su análisis, el autor posiciona al feminismo, y más concretamente al feminismo autónomo, como una de las corrientes teórico/políticas que incidirá sustantivamente en la consolidación de una corriente crítica y no asimilacionista al interior de las diversidades sexo/genéricas.

El autor plantea un recorrido analítico de estos años de la despenalización de la homosexualidad en Ecuador, recuperando críticamente el protagonismo de las mismas poblaciones sexo/género diversas, cuya emergencia política en estos veinte años ha concitado el interés político de distintas organizaciones progresistas, así como de la academia y de la escena del arte contemporáneo local.
Un análisis de la reacción me gusta en Facebook desde los estudios de la interacción
Authors: Reig Alamillo Asela , Elizondo Romero Alejandro
Published: January 2019

El artículo analiza el empleo del emoticono reactivo me gusta en la red social Facebook a partir de conceptos teóricos de la pragmática y el análisis de la conversación. Se describe el empleo de me gusta como una intervención reactiva cuya interpretación (literal, como valoración positiva de un contenido, o no literal) depende de las características de la interacción y de principios pragmáticos, en concreto, los conceptos de pertinencia condicional, respuesta preferida o no preferida, la búsqueda de relevancia y las características de los participantes y su relación dentro de la red social, los cuales permiten explicar el empleo y la interpretación literal o no literal del emoticono en interacción.
En el principio era el verbo to be… una mirada etnográfica al inicio del aprendizaje de inglés
Authors: Camarena Ortiz Eréndira
Published: January 2019

Este artículo es parte de una investigación sobre representaciones sociales y creencias acerca del aprendizaje del inglés y su uso. Se trata de un trabajo de etnografía educativa y de análisis de discurso llevado a cabo con tres grupos de alumnos de la Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana de la Ciudad de México. A través de las narraciones de los jóvenes estudiantes se reconstruyen algunos momentos relevantes, situaciones, conflictos y encuentros con otras personas que han influido en su manera de percibir, sentir y aprender inglés. Al final se hace una breve discusión sobre los principales problemas y los aspectos positivos que han experimentado los alumnos en su trayectoria de aprendizaje de inglés y que nos ayudan a comprenderlos.
Screening and evaluation of ethanolic extract from Casuarina equisetifolia inflorescence on isolated chick rectum, frog rectum and frog rectus abdominus muscle for identification of muscarinic and nicotinic receptor’s action
Authors: Umamaheswar Rao O. , Chinna Eswaraiah M.
Published: January 2019

The present experiments were undertaken to justify the use of an ethanolic extract from inflorescence of Casuarina equisetifolia, Family: Casuarinaceae, influencing the nicotine responses on isolated chick rectum and frog rectum (Smooth Muscles) and frog rectus abdominus muscle (Skeletal Muscle). The isolated tissues were mounted in organ bath filled with physiological solution and was suitably aerated. After equilibration, responses were taken to different doses of nicotine (log doses) till a ceiling response was obtained. A sub-maximal dose of nicotine was selected and responses to this dose was taken and ensured that there is reproducibility of response. The drum was allowed to move for 1min., different concentrations of extracts into the organ baths were added and allowed to act for 1min without flushing the baths, then the sub-maximal dose of nicotine was added and allowed to act for 1min. this procedure was repeated (without extract) till the original response was obtained. The inference drawn from these experiments, the ethanolic extract of inflorescence of Casuarina equisetifolia antagonised the action of nicotine on isolated chick rectum, relaxed the effect of nicotine on frog rectum and it potentiated the effect of nicotine on frog rectus abdominus muscle. The nicotine receptors of rectus abdominus is activated, perhaps by the prevention of hydrolysis of acetylcholine by the extract. Based on the results obtained from the isolated chick rectum the ethanolic extract is having antinicotinic activity and it may act on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) as well as muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) on other isolated tissues. The extract might contain ganglionic blocking activity or non-specific activity or membrane stabilising activity also.

Keywords: Nicotine, Ethanolic extract, Inflorescence of Casuarina equisetifolia, Isolated Chick Rectum, Isolated Frog Rectum and Isolated Frog Rectus Abdominus Muscle.
Evaluation of polyherbal ointment for wound healing activity in Wistar rats
Authors: Kolhe Shilpa S.
Published: January 2019

The aim of present study to formulate, evaluate and to check the wound healing activity of newly prepared polyherbal formulation (ointment) .Herbal ointment containing hydrochloric extracts of plants Psorolea corylifalia, Achryanthes aspera ,was formulated as ointment and the hydro alcoholic extract was prepared by maceration method. These Formulations were evaluated for the following parameters: pH, Spread ability, grittiness, skin irritation study, stability. The wound healing activity is assessed by the rate of wound contraction, Period of epithelisation and skin breaking strength.

Keywords: Herbal Ointment, Wound Healing Activity.
Phytochemical evaluation and in vitro antioxidant studies of selected species of Gomphostemma Wall. ex Benth. from Western Ghats
Authors: Sajitha M. K , Thoppil J. E.
Published: January 2019

Plants are a rich source of bioactive compounds and have played a vital role in traditional medicine. Plant derived compounds are proved to have less side effects as compared to synthetic compounds. However, a truncated history on the contribution of plants to medicine together with lack of validation of plant derived components have led to massive research in phytochemistry and allied fields. Present study was intended to identify as well as to assess and compare different phytochemicals and antioxidant potential of selected taxa of Gomphostemma endemic to Western Ghats. Methanolic extracts of aerial parts of Gomphostemma heyneanum var. heyneanum, Gomphostemma heyneanum var. rottleri and Gomphostemma eriocarpum were subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. Quantitative estimation of phenols and flavonoids was done with Folin-Ciocalteu method and modified Aluminium chloride method respectively. Antioxidant potential was examined by DPPH assay, Hydroxyl radical scavenging assay and Reducing power activity. Preliminary screening indicated the presence of many secondary metabolites like phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids and steroids. Results of quantitative estimation revealed that G. heyneanum var. heyneanum has the highest concentration of phenols and flavonoids. Antioxidant potential determined in terms of inhibition percentage also displayed that Gomphostemma species have significant radical scavenging activity. The antioxidant potential exhibited by the plant species may be attributed to their phenol and flavonoid content.

Keywords: Phytochemical constituents, Gomphostemma, Quantitative estimation, Total phenolics, Flavonoids, Antioxidant activity, DPPH assay, Hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, Reducing power activity.
Zika virus (ZIKV) disease: past, present and future
Authors: Khatri Sweety , Dhanoriya Chandni , Jain Deepak Kumar
Published: January 2019

The mosquito-borne arbovirus Zika virus (positive-stranded RNA virus, ZIKV, Flavivirus, Flaviviridae), has caused an outbreak imposing by its extent and quick spread. This became the focus of a current pandemic and public health crisis all around the world because of the incessant geographic growth of both the virus and its mosquito vectors; it is often misdiagnosed with other disease like yellow fever, west nile, dengue and chikungunya because of same clinical manifestation. After unprecedented huge scale outbreak of ZIKV in Pacific, Micronesian island of Yap in 2007, though ZIKV infections are in general sporadic cases or causing mild self-limiting illness, harsh symptoms have been explained including neurological disorders, autoimmune disorder, fetal anomalies, impaired central nervous system of the fetus, microcephaly in newborns, meningoencephalitis, myelitis and Guillain Barre´Syndrome supposed to be linked with ZIKV. The virus is transmitted mainly by a mosquito Aedes aegypti, whereas, other routes of viral broadcast includes monkey bite, coitus and body fluids such as semen, blood and saliva which needs further corroboration. The relationship between these conditions with ZIKV infection is still not established and is under assessment. Till now there is no vaccine or specific antiviral against ZIKV, therefore the public health authority focuses on preventing infection, mainly in pregnant women and virus transmitted area. WHO and other health officials are working on the expansion of new projects and mosquito control techniques to manage up with infection as there is very fewer literature present on the pathogenesis of the ZIKV to help understand the clinical disease spectrum and target treatments to decrease or stop infection. The future status of ZIKV dispersal to other parts of the world is still unknown. The present review emphasizes various features of ZIKV and its history, epidemiology, transmission, clinical manifestations, progress  and advances in developing effective diagnostics, vaccines and drugs/therapeutics along with accepting suitable avoidance and control strategies to undertake this deadly emerging disease.

Keywords: Zika virus, Flavivirus, Aedes aegypti, Pregnancy, Transmission, Microcephaly, Africa
Preliminary phytochemical profile of Dictyota dichotoma (Huds.) Lamouroux collected from Koothankuzhi Coast, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: John Peter Paul J
Published: January 2019

The present study was intended to discover the preliminary phytochemicals of Dictyota dichotoma (Huds.) Lamouroux from Koothankuzhi coast, Tirunelveli district, the south east coast of Tamil Nadu, India. The preliminary phytochemical analysis was conducted in seven extracts namely methanol, acetone, chloroform, ethyl acetate, petroleum ether, hexane and benzene by Harborne method. The preliminary phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, anthocyanin, anthraquinones, cardiac glycosides, catechin, coumarins, diterpenes, emodins, flavonoids, glycosides, leucoanthocyanin, lignins, phenols, phlobatannins, quinones, saponins, steroids, tannins, terpenoids and triterpenoids. Among the various phytochemicals studied, tannin showed the maximum presence, being found in seven different extracts and anthraquinones was observed in only one extract. From the results, it was noted that the extracts of Dictyota dichotoma (Huds.) Lamouroux was found to be the presence of a number of active secondary metabolites. This report will lead to the isolation and characterization of these active secondary metabolites for bioefficacy and bioactivity.

Keywords: Phytochemical, Bioactive compounds, Seaweed extracts, Dictyota, Tamil Nadu.
Unique Structures, Properties and Applications of Dendrimers
Authors: Gupta Ankita , Dubey Shaifali , Mishra Mayuri
Published: January 2019

Dendrimers are novel three dimensional, hyperbranched globular nano polymeric architectures. Attractive features like nanoscopic size, narrow polydispersity index and excellent control over molecular structure afford dendrimers with ideal drug delivery ability through encapsulating drugs in their interior or covalently conjugating drugs on their surfaces. The adaptable surface functionalization ability enables covalent conjugation of various targeting molecules onto the surface of dendrimers, thereby allowing for generation of various multifunctional nanodevices for targeted drug delivery applications. Drug delivery researchers are especially enthusiastic about possible utility of dendrimers as drug delivery tool. However, to get the maximum benefits of these novel class macromolecules, a research by collaboration is very much essential. Finally,  it is one of the youngest and exciting fields of polymer researches where all branches of science can take part and hence, deserves more intensive attention.

Keywords: Dendrimers, Drug Delivery, Targeting, Dual Drug Loading, PAMAM
Study of Prescribing Pattern, Identification of Drug Related Problems and Therapeutic Intervention in Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVD) Patients
Authors: Biradar S M. , Naveed Mohammed , Sai P. Keerthi , Raju H. Pruthvi , Kumar A. Harish , Ambali Anand P. , Sorangavi Vijaya , Shivakumar B. , Kalyane N V.
Published: January 2019

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a disorder of heart and blood vessels. CVD is one of the major causes of deaths in India, which contributed around 30 to 40%. The aim of the study was to study the prescribing pattern of drugs, identification of drug related problems and therapeutic intervention in CVD patients. A hospital based prospective and observational study was carried out for a period of nine months in a south Indian tertiary care hospital. Among 120 selected patients, 79 were male  (65.83%) and 41 were female  (34.16%), more number of patients (35) were between the age group of 55-64 (29.16%) of which 27 were males & 8 were females, and very less number of patients (6) were between the age group 85-94 (5%) of which all the 6 were male. Hypertension is the most commonest and dominant disorder, which affected 47(39.16%) patients, in which 30 were male (25%) and 17 were female (14.16%). Most common risk factor is HTN followed with smoking and diabetes of 45 patients (37.5%). The most often prescribed pattern adopted in CVD is Dual therapy, it is most frequently used therapy 50 (41.66%) and quadruple therapy is less frequently 6(6.5%) used. The diuretics and calcium channel blocker combination were maximally prescribed class of drugs as a dual therapy. A total of 47 drug-drug interactions were found, among 12 were major, 15 were moderate and 20 were minor interactions. Clinical pharmacist has intervened with the help of other health care professionals in order to reduce the risk factor and minimise the drug-drug interactions. The study provides the benefits of presence of clinical pharmacist in a hospital setting, in order to prevent the medication related errors and provide the expertise pharmacotherapy opinion in CVD patients, which improves the patient compliance.  Hence study justifies a need of active collaboration between clinical pharmacist, physician and other health care professionals for the better management of CVD patients.

Keywords: Prescribing Pattern; Cardio Vascular Diseases; Drug Related Problems; Therapeutic Intervention.
Qualitative and quantitative determination of secondary metabolites and antioxidant potential of Nymphaea nouchali flowers
Authors: Singh Manjeet , Jain Alok Pal
Published: January 2019

In the Indian ayurvedic system of medicine, Nymphaea nouchali is used for the treatment of diabetes, inflammation, liver disorders, cutaneous diseases, blenorrhagia, urinary disorders, menorrhagia, menstruation problem, as an aphrodisiac, bitter tonic, antimicrobial agent and anti antihepatotoxic effect.  The aim of the present study is to examine Nymphaea nouchali flowers for phytochemical profile, in vitro antioxidant activities. Qualitative analysis of various phytochemical constituents and quantitative analysis of total phenolics and flavonoids were determined by the well-known test protocol available in the literature. Quantitative analysis of phenolic and flavonoids was carried out by Folins Ciocalteau reagent method and aluminium chloride method respectively. The In vitro antioxidant activity of ethanolic extract of the flowers was assessed against nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide assay using standard protocols. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, fixed oil and fats. The total phenolics content of flowers ethanolic extract was (18.4 mg/100mg), followed by flavonoids (12.4mg/100mg). The activities of ethanolic flowers extract against nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide were concentration dependent with IC50 values of 68.39 and 64.54 μg/ml respectively. The present study concluded that the crude extract of Nymphaea nouchali is a potential source of natural antioxidants and this justifies its use in folkloric medicine.

Keywords: Nymphaea nouchali, Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Nitric oxide, Hydrogen peroxide, Phenols, Flavonoids
Detection of non-tuberculous mycobacteria from sputum samples
Authors: Umrao Jyoti , Sivaperumal R
Published: January 2019

NTM infections are an emerging global public health problem, especially in developing world. NTM and MTBC were proven to be responsible for various lungs, soft and skin tissues, and disseminated infections. Microscopy of AFB is rapid; however it does not discriminate between MTBC and NTM. Biochemical tests are time taking and interpretation of results may be difficult. The  GenoType®  Mycobacterium  CM/AS  assay  is reliable and rapid detection method in species of mycobacteria, which can  give  patients  with the onset  of  early targeted therapy. In present study, 189 patients detect by sputum sampling from total 3320 patients.

Keywords: NTM, Sputum, Diagnosis, Clinical, Lucknow.
Overview on Nitrogen containing compounds and their assessment based on ‘International Regulatory Standards’
Authors: Shaikh Ansar R. , Farooqui Mazahar , Satpute R.H. , Abed Syed
Published: January 2019

Heterocyclic compounds have a role in most fields of sciences such as medicinal chemistry, biochemistry also another area of sciences. More than 90% of new drugscontain heterocycles and the interface between chemistry and biology, at which so much new scientific insight, discovery and application is taking place is crossed by heterocyclic compounds. Compounds derived from heterocyclic rings in pharmacy, medicine, agriculture, plastic, polymer and other fields.Most active heterocycles that have shown considerable biological actions as antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticonvulsant, antiallergic, herbicidal, anticancer activity. There is always a strong need for new and efficient processes in synthesizing of new Heterocycles.Alum have been used as a novel catalyst in the synthesis of Schiff’s bases. Synthesized Schiff’s bases are free from use of ICH class 1 and Class 2 solvents and also free from structural alerts genotoxic impurities. This review highlights on various aspects of heterocyclic compounds with its biological activity & regulatory assessment based on the ‘International Regulatory Standards’.

Keywords: Heterocycles. Nitrogen containing compounds Biological activity, History, Regulatory assessment, International Regulatory Standards
Novel application of mixed solvency concept in the development of oral liquisolid system of a poorly soluble drug, cefixime and its evaluation
Authors: Agrawal Rinshi , Maheshwari RK
Published: January 2019

Application of mixed solvency has been employed in the present research work to develop a liquisolid system (Powder formulation) of poorly water soluble drug, cefixime (as model drug). Material and Methods: For poorly water soluble drug cefixime, combination of solubilizers such as sodium acetate, sodium caprylate and propylene glycol as mixed solvent systems were used to decrease the overall concentration of solubilizers required to produce substantial increase in solubility and thereby resulting in enhanced drug loading capacity of cefixime. The procured sample of cefixime was characterized by melting point, IR, UV and DSC studies. Stability studies of liquisolid system of cefixime were performed for two months at room temperature, 30˚C and 40˚C. All the formulations were physically, chemically, and microbiologically stable. Conclusion: Mixed solvency concept has been successfully employed for enhancing the drug loading of poorly water soluble drug, cefixime.

Keywords: Solubility, cefixime, liquisolid system, mixed solvency concept.
Assessment of hemolytic effect of Cassia flower extracts on human RBCs
Authors: Phuse Shital S. , Khan Zia. H.
Published: January 2019

RBC membrane can be affected by consumption of bioactive compounds from herbs and medicinal plants. This study aimed to assess hemolytic effect of crude ethyl acetate and acetone extract from Cassia glauca flowers. Both the extracts of Cassia flowers were prepared, using Soxhlet apparatus. RBCs were washed with phosphate buffered saline and resuspended in 0.9% normal saline. These RBCs were added to different concentrations of the extracts and then incubated. After centrifugation, absorbance of the supernatant was determined by UV spectrophotometer at 540 nm. The present work shows that the fractions exhibited anti-hemolytic potential as extracts of Cassia flower showed very less percent of hemolysis when compared to standard quercetin. IC50values were found to be 23.77μg/ml for (CF EA) and 12.50μg/ml for Cassia flower in acetone(CF A)against standard which was found to be 41.75μg/ml. Extracts of Cassia flower exhibited very low hemolytic activity. Hence, it can be considered as safe to human RBCs.  In future recommend further in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Cassia glauca extracts for treated several diseases.

Keyword: Extract, Acetone, Ethyl acetate, Cassia glauca flowers, Hemolytic effect, RBCs
RP-HPLC method development and validation for simultaneous estimation of Cilnidipine, Atenolol and Chlorthalidone
Authors: Solanki Vishal Singh , BISHNOI RAM SINGH , Baghel Raviraj , Jain Deepti
Published: January 2019

A simple precise and economical reverse phase high performance liquid chromatographic method has been developed and validated for the simultaneous estimation of Cilnidipine (CDP), Atenolol (ATL) and Chlorthalidone (CTD).The chromatographic separation was achieved by using Hypersil- keystone C18 (4.6 x 250mm, 5μm) under isocratic conditions The mobile phase consisted of methanol and triple distilled water (80/20, v/v) having pH 7 with a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The eluents were monitored at 225 nm for simultaneous measurement.The selected chromatographic conditions were found to effectively separate CDP (Rt: 3.25 min), ATL (Rt: 5.366 min) and CTD (Rt: 9.025 min) having good resolution. The developed method was validated for linearity, accuracy, precision, LOD, LOQ, robustness and for system suitability parameters as per ICH guidelines. In this study, an excellent linearity was obtained with r2 = 0.999, r² = 0.999, r² = 1, for CDP, ATL and CTD respectively. The developed chromatographic method proved to be simple, precise, accurate, robust and reproducible Thus, this method would be employed for routine simultaneous quantification of CDP, ATL and CTD in bulk form or tablet dosage form.

 

Keywords: Cilnidipine, Atenolol and Chlorthalidone, RP-HPLC.
Biochemical characterization and 16s rRNA sequencing of different bacteria from textile dye effluents
Authors: Jayaseelan T , Damodaran R , Ganesan S , Mani P
Published: January 2019

Environmental pollution has been identified as a major problem in the modern world. Dyeing effluents have become a vital source of water pollution. Release of coloured textile effluents is undesirable in the aquatic environment as they reduce light penetration, thereby affecting aquatic life and limits utilization of the water media. In Tirupur, the textile factories discharge millions of litres of untreated effluents into the drains that eventually empty into river, Noyyal. The release of coloured compound into water bodies is undesirable not only because of their impact on photosynthesis of aquatic plants but also due to the carcinogenic nature of these dyes and their breakdown products. The ability of bacterial strains isolated from the dye effluent of textile mill sites. Morphological and biochemical characterization was done to identify isolates and was found to be Pseudomonas spp, Bacillus spp and Serattia spp. The isolated strains were finally identified by 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Bacteria are generally identified by 16S rRNA sequencing. The rRNA is the most conserved (least variable) gene in all cells. They were identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Serattia liquefaciens. The sequences were deposited in GENBANK. The accession numbers were KU041528, KU041530 and KU041531 respectively. The identification was conformed by 16S rRNA sequencing.

Keywords: Textile Dye Effluents, Bacteria, 16S rRNA, NCBI.
Enhanced dissolution and solubility of Epalrestat with β-Cyclodextrin ternary complex using Arginine
Authors: Jagtap Sneha , Chandrakant Magdum
Published: January 2019

The objective of present is work to achieve improvement in solubility and dissolution using Epalrestat with β-cyclodextrin ternary complex with addition of L-arginine. Kneading method with and without incorporation of L-arginine was used to obtain the solid systems (binary and ternary complex) of Epalrestat with β-cyclodextrin and characterized for DSC, PXRD, SEM. Phase solubility, saturation solubility, dissolution and stability studies were carried out. The effect of L-arginine was investigated on complexation efficiency of β-cyclodextrin towards Epalrestat in an aqueous media through phase solubility according to Higuchi and Connors. Phase solubility studies showed AL (linear) type of solubility curve in presence of L-arginine, the complexation efficiency and association constant of β-cyclodextrin towards Epalrestat were promoted by L-arginine signifying its use as a ternary component. Dissolution rate of Epalrestat and solubility were significantly improved by complexation with β-cyclodextrin as compared to Epalrestat alone. Ternary complex incorporated with L-arginine proved better than binary complex. Hence, L-arginine could be exploited as a ternary component to improve the solubility of Epalrestat via β-cyclodextrin complexation.

Keywords: Epalrestat, solubility enhancement, inclusion complexes, β-cyclodextrin, L-arginine.
Formulation and evaluation of polymeric nanoparticles of an antihypetensive drug for gastroretention
Authors: Betala Surendranath , Mohan Varma M , Abbulu K
Published: January 2019

The aim of present study was to formulate and evaluate nanoparticles of carvedilol by using different hydrophilic polymers. Carvedilol was selected as a suitable drug for gastro- retentive nanoparticles due to its short half life, low bioavailability, high frequency of administration, and narrow absorption window in stomach and upper part of GIT. The nano-precipitation method was used to prepare nanoparticles so as to avoid both chlorinated solvents and surfactants to prevent their toxic effect on the body. Nanoparticles of  carvedilol were prepared by using hydrophilic polymers such as HPMC K100M, chitosan, and gelatin. The prepared formulations were then characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, loading efficiency, encapsulation efficiency and drug-excipient compatibility. The prepared nanoparticulate formulations of carvedilol  with different polymers in 1:1 ratio have shown particle size in the range of 250.12-743.07 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) in the range of 0.681-1.0, zeta potential in the range of -14.2 to +33.2 mV, loading efficiency in the range of 8.74-17.54%, and entrapment efficiency in the range of 55.7%-74.2%. Nanoparticulate formulation prepared with chitosan in 1:1 ratio showed satisfactory results i.e. average particle size 312.04 nm, polydispersity index 0.681, zeta potential 33.2 mV, loading efficiency 17.54%, and entrapment efficiency 73.4%. FTIR study concluded that no major interaction occurred between  the drug and polymers used in the present study.

Keywords: Nanoparticles; gastro-retentive; nano-precipitation, polydispersity index, zeta potential; entrapment efficiency.
Formulation and evaluation of effervescent tablets: a review
Authors: Patel Salim G , Siddaiah M
Published: January 2019

Oral dosage forms are the most popular way of taking medication, despite having some disadvantages compared with other methods like risk of slow absorption of the medicament, which can be overcome by administering the drug in liquid form, therefore, possibly allowing the use of a lower dosage. However, instability of many drugs in liquid dosage form limits its use. Effervescent technique can be used as alternate to develop a dosage form which can accelerate drug disintegration and dissolution, is usually applied in quick release preparations. Along with the development of new pharmaceutical technique, effervescent tablet are more and more extensively to adjust the behaviour of drug release, such as in sustained and controlled release preparations, pulsatile drug delivery systems, and so on. This review demonstrated the new applying of effervescent technique in effervescent tablets.

Keywords: Effervescent Tablet, Sustained release, Floating Delivery System
Spectral Analysis of Drug Loaded Nanoparticles for Drug-Polymer Interactions
Authors: Singh Gurpreet , Faruk Abdul , Bedi Preet Mohinder Singh
Published: January 2019

PLGA [Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)] is a one of the widely used biodegradable polymer. The extensive use of PLGA is due to its biocompatible properties and is also approved by FDA and European Medicine Agency in parenteral drug delivery system. Chitosan (CS) is also an extensively used natural polymer in the field of medicine. It has been well documented as a potential drug carrier due to its biocompatibility. Various reports has also suggested the role of chitosan in formulation of nanoparticles to increase the drug bioavailability and efficacy. The characterization of these systems pose interesting analytical challenges. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) technique helps to analyze the adsorption of functional groups on nanoparticles and also to investigate the drug polymer interactions. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis helps in detection of crystallinity of drugs and polymers on basis of diffraction patterns. This study investigates the characterizations of methotrexate (MTX) and Fluorouracil (5-FU) loaded nanoparticles of PLGA and chitosan with help of FTIR and XRD techniques.

Keywords: PLGA, XRD, MTX, Chitosan, FTIR, 5-FU