bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rare case of congenital malformation - Macrodactyly of the foot.
Authors: Ahamad Mohammad Nafees , Sultana Guljabin
Published: April 2022

Macrodactyly of the foot is an extremely rare congenital malformation characterized by an increase in the size of all the elements or structures of a digit or digits. Sources indicate that macrodactyly of foot is less common than hands. This medical condition usually requires surgical intervention with a precise preoperative plan and postoperative rehabilitation for satisfying cosmetic appearance and functional outcomes.
A rare case of non-small cell lung carcinoma with diffuse coexpression of TTF1 and p40 in the same tumour cells
Authors: Guo Xingmei , Dong Lei , Liu Hengan , Chen Xiaoyan
Published: April 2022

Background: Three cases of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) with diffuse co-expression of TTF1 and p40 in the same tumour cells have been reported since 2015, which may be an underrecognized new entity of the lung. All of the cases were aged male smoking patients, with poorly differentiated carcinomas, and a similar molecular signature harboring TP53 mutation. Case Presentation: A 75-year-old man who underwent lung cancer surgery was diagnosed as NSCLC with diffuse co-expression of TTF1 and p40 in the same tumour cells. Microscopically, the tumor showed solid growth pattern with patchy necrosis. Neither glandular nor squamous pattern were found. The carcinoma cells were round or polygonal shaped with obvious nucleoli and numerous mitoses. In some areas, the carcinoma cells proliferated within the bronchial epithelium. Spread through air spaces (STAS) and visceral pleura invasion can be observed. Immunohistochemistry(IHC) showed intense diffuse positivity for both TTF-1(8G7G3/1) and p40 in the same tumor cells. Tumor cells were positive for p63, CK7, CK20, E-cadherin, GPC-3, Oct3/4, focally positive for CK5/6, Vimentin, EGFR, and negative for NapsinA, CDX-2, SATB2, chromogranin, synaptophysin and PD-L1(22C3). Negative P53 IHC staining indicated mutational status and Ki-67 index was 80%. Molecular investigation was performed by Whole Exome Sequencing, and TP53, Notch2 and STK11 mutations were detected. The patient remained alive over a follow-up period of 21 months and was free of tumour recurrence or metastasis.Conclusions: NSCLC with diffuse co-expression of TTF-1 and p40 in the same tumor cells may be a new unique entity. Expression of both “adenocarcinoma” and “squamous” markers may be an implication for classification and clinical therapy. Our case offers further insight into this rare tumor.
Safety and Efficacy of Ayurvedic Formulation “Guduchi Ghana Vati” as a Preventive Remedy in COVID-19
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev Kumar , Godatwar Pawankumar , Pareek Manohar , Meena HML , Sharma Anand , Tamoli Sanjay
Published: April 2022

Background: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), a well-known Ayurvedic Herb used both as a preventive and curative remedy for various infections and immunity related conditions. Objective was to evaluate Guduchi Ghana Vati as a preventive remedy for COVID-19 and other non-COVID-19 infections in healthy population.Methodology: This was an open labelled, multi centric, randomized, comparative, interventional, prospective community based clinical study on healthy individuals at community level in five different districts of Rajasthan under National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan. Participants were divided into two groups in which one group received Guduchi Ghana Vati as the intervention for a period of 45 days while participants in the other group did not receive any intervention. Comparative assessment of incidence of COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 infections, its severity and requirement of hospitalization was done. Assessment of safety was done through assessment of adverse reactions. Results: Of a total of 10022 participants who completed the study, the rate of infection with COVID19 was observed to be lower in those taking Guduchi Ghana Vati as compared to those not taking it however the difference was statistically non-significant. The number of episodes and severity of infection related illnesses (non-COVID 19) was found to be less in participants taking Guduchi Ghana Vati as compared to those not taking it; the difference was statistically significant too. No major adverse drug reactions were observed.Conclusion: Guduchi Ghana Vati is a safe and effective remedy for the prevention of infection and immunity related conditions including COVID19.
An analysis of the viability of avascular iliac and fibula grafts in mandibular reconstruction- A prospective randomised study
Authors: SHIKHA NIRDHUM , UPASI AMARNATH P , RAI KIRTHI KUMAR , REGHUNADHAN PARVATHY , KOCHER VARUN
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Reconstruction of the mandible is a challenging task in terms of restoring its form and biomechical functions. Nonvascular iliac and fibula graft are used in mandibular reconstruction with different sets of complications and varying success rate. The aim of this study is to prospectively compare the viability of avascular iliac and fibula bone grafts in the reconstruction of mandibular defects. Methods: A total of 14 patients, planned for reconstruction of mandibular defects from November 2016 to April 2018 were randomly allocated in two groups; nonvascular iliac and fibula graft groups. Clinical assessment for improvement in function, esthetics, wound healing, pain, donor site morbidity was done and were followed up for six months. Digital Orthopantamogram was taken for radiographic evaluation upto 6 months. Results: Difficulty in swallowing, mastication, speech, infection, restricted limb movement, altered gait were statistically significant and were seen more in fibula group. Wound dehiscence with graft exposure was found in one subject. The overall success rate was 100% in iliac group and 85.7% in fibula group. Conclusion: Considering the long term complications and success rate, nonvascular iliac graft was found to be more superior and can be used as an alternative to nonvascular fibula graft for a defect length upto 7cms.
Effect of Sexual Health Education of Mothers on their Comfort and Intention to discuss Sex-related Topics with Adolescent Girls: A Controlled Interventional Study
Authors: Gheysari Fatemeh , Pasha Hajar , Adibrad Hajar , Chehrazi Mohamad , Omidvar Shabnam , Faramarzi Mahbobeh
Published: April 2022

Background & Aim:
Sex education is one of the most challenging topics for mothers. Therefore, we examined the effect of sexual health education of mothers on their comfort and intention to discuss Sex-related Topics with adolescent girls.
Methods
In this controlled interventional study, 160 mothers having 13–16 year old girls were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group participated in four 90-minute training sessions per week, no educational intervention was performed in the control group. Both groups completed the Demographic Characteristics Questionnaire, Intention to discuss about sex topics Questionnaire, as well as Comfort Discussing Sex Topics Questionnaire and Parenting Sense of Competence Scale (PSOC) before beginning the study and one month after the end of intervention. Paired t-test, Chi-square, McNemar’s test, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), and Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) were used for analysis of data.
Results
Comparison of the mean parents' comfort in discussing sex topics after adjusting the baseline values, were significantly different between the groups (P < 0.001). Compared to the control group, there was a significant increase in mean parents' comfort in discussing sex topics in the intervention group. After adjusting the baseline values, there was no significant difference between groups for the mean age appropriate for discussing sex topics with the child in all propositions(13 items) of parents' Intention index, Sense of Competence as well as its dimensions such as self-efficacy and satisfaction (P > 0.05). Also, comparing the frequency distribution of mothers in all 13 items of parents' Intention index for discussing sex topics with the child (except for delivery and menstruation) showed a significant difference at the end of the interventions between the intervention and control groups. The intervention group had spoken with their child to a higher extent than the control group about these items or they intended to talk later (P < 0.05).Mean pre-to-post scores of parents' comfort in discussing sex topics with adolescent girls (P = 0.0001), Sense of Competence in child rearing (P = 0.04), and self-efficacy (P = 0.037) significantly increased in the intervention groups, while they were not significant in the control group. Also, comparison pre-to-post frequency distribution of mothers’ intention in discussing all the propositions (except for menstruation) was significantly increased in the intervention group (p < 0.05), while it was not significant in the control group.
Conclusion
Sexual health education was effective on the feeling of interest and comfort of mothers to discuss about sex topics.Therefore, counseling services on mothers' speech interactions are recommended to promote adolescent girl's sexual health
Estimation of the Academic Performance of Students in Distance Education Using Data Mining Methods
Authors: BÜTÜNER Resul , CALP M. Hanefi
Published: April 2022

Many institutions in the field of education have been involved in distance education with the learning management system. In this context, there has been a rapid increase in data in the e-learning process as a result of the development of technology and the widespread use of the internet. This increase is in the size of large data. Today, big data can be primarily processed, the relationships between data can be discovered, a meaningful conclusion can be drawn, and predictions about the future using big data can be made. However, these data are generally not used in a way to contribute to the people and institutions (educators, education administrators, ministries, etc.) involved in the education process. Therefore, this study aims to estimate the academic success of students who receive education in the distance education process using data mining methods. The reason why data mining is used is that these methods are particularly effective and powerful tools in classification and prediction processes. The methods used in the study are Random Forest, Artificial Neural Networks, Naive Bayes, Support Vector Machines, Logistic Regression, and Deep Learning algorithms, respectively. The dataset includes primary, secondary, and high school students’ data, which were obtained from the learning management system used in the distance education process. As a result, the study findings showed that Deep Learning, Random Forest, and Support Vector Machines algorithms provide prediction success at higher performance than others.
Adaptation of the Children's Perceived Academic Self-Efficacy Scale: Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: ÖZYETER Neslihan Tuğçe , KUTLU Ömer
Published: April 2022

Academic self-efficacy, which is the belief that the student can achieve an academic task, has a highly strong impact on the academic performance of students. It is known that students with high academic self-efficacy show high academic performance, see the academic difficulties they encounter as areas of development and continue to strive for success. The review of the related literature has identified no scale whose validity and reliability analyses have been carried out by following the necessary scientific procedures that can be used to measure this quality for the 9-13 age group. Therefore, in the current study, an adaptation study of the scale developed by Jinks and Morgan into the Turkish language and culture was performed. The study group consisted of secondary school students, and the data were collected in two separate sessions. Upon completion of the adaptation-based translation of the scale, its degree of validity was calculated based on the linguistic, content, construct and criterion approaches and its degree of reliability was calculated by Cronbach Alpha and Composite Reliability coefficient. The findings show that the adapted scale can be used to obtain valid and reliable results for the 9-13 age group.
Teachers’ perceived skills, challenges and attitudes towards distance education: A validity and reliability study
Authors: ÇOBANOĞLU AKTAN Derya , ÖZTEMÜR Begüm
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to develop a reliable and valid measurement tool to examine teachers' attitudes towards distance education and perceived distance education skills. The data of the study were collected from 2290 K-12 teachers. In the data analysis, reliability was calculated with stratified Cronbach's alpha coefficient, and for construct validity, EFA and CFA were performed. Bartlett and KMO tests were used for the suitability of the data for factor analysis. It was observed that the calculated correlations among the item and the total score for the 25-item trial form were above 0.20. As a result of the EFA, 7 items that loaded more than one factor, or with a factor loading less than 0.45 were excluded from the scale. Promax rotation revealed three factors with an eigenvalue greater than 1.00. The total explained variance of the final form of the scale (18 items) was found as 53.594%. The fit indices calculated in the confirmatory factor analysis (RMSEA = 0.053; CFI = 0.932; TLI = 0.918, SRMR = 0.055) confirmed the three-factor model. The results obtained showed that the model fits the data. The stratified alpha reliability for the whole scale was calculated as .848. The results of the study show that the scale can measure teachers’ perceived skills, challenges they face, and their attitudes towards distance education reliably and validly.
Associations between extreme precipitation, drinking water, and protozoan acute gastrointestinal illnesses in four North American Great Lakes cities (2009–2014)
Authors: Graydon Ryan C. , Mezzacapo Michael , Boehme Jennifer , Foldy Seth , Edge Thomas A. , Brubacher Jordan , Chan Hing Man , Dellinger Matthew , Faustman Elaine M. , Rose Joan B. , Takaro Tim K.
Published: April 2022

Climate change is already impacting the North American Great Lakes ecosystem and understanding the relationship between climate events and public health, such as waterborne acute gastrointestinal illnesses (AGIs), can help inform needed adaptive capacity for drinking water systems (DWSs). In this study, we assessed a harmonized binational dataset for the effects of extreme precipitation events (≥90th percentile) and preceding dry periods, source water turbidity, total coliforms, and protozoan AGIs – cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis – in the populations served by four DWSs that source surface water from Lake Ontario (Hamilton and Toronto, Ontario, Canada) and Lake Michigan (Green Bay and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA) from January 2009 through August 2014. We used distributed lag non-linear Poisson regression models adjusted for seasonality and found extreme precipitation weeks preceded by dry periods increased the relative risk of protozoan AGI after 1 and 3–5 weeks in three of the four cities, although only statistically significant in two. Our results suggest that the risk of protozoan AGI increases with extreme precipitation preceded by a dry period. As extreme precipitation patterns become more frequent with climate change, the ability to detect changes in water quality and effectively treat source water of varying quality is increasingly important for adaptive capacity and protection of public health.
Physicochemical analysis of wastewater discharge and impact on Ganges River of major cities of North India
Authors: Soni Ramendra , Pal Arun Kumar , Tripathi Pooja , Jha Pawan Kumar , Tripathi Vijay
Published: April 2022

The inadequate practice of discharge of wastewater into receiving water bodies alters physicochemical parameters, which ultimately disturbs the livelihood of aquatic flora and fauna. The present study was focussed on the evaluation of the efficiencies of wastewater treatment plants based on different technologies through analysing the physicochemical parameters of wastewater collected from each treatment step including inlet, outlet and downstream Ganges River in Prayagraj, Varanasi and Kanpur (India) during winter and summer seasons. The removal efficiency of the MBBR technology of Prayagraj WWTP was observed to be better than that of the ASP and UASB technologies of Varanasi and Kanpur respectively for both seasons. Correlation analysis explained the strong negative correlation of pH and DO with nearly all the parameters of the study; whereas TDS, hardness, ammonia and BOD were highly correlated with each other in each city. The factor analysis suggested the best fit amongst the physicochemical parameters, with four factors elucidating 78.00% of the total variance, which further explained that DO, TDS, total alkalinity, nitrate, COD, and temperature were the major components for pollution. The results indicated that most of the samples were not appropriate for direct discharge into water bodies and irrigation purposes and thus needed further implementation of advanced technologies in their treatment procedure.
A condicionante educação no contexto do Programa Bolsa Família
Authors: Brandão Bruno
Published: April 2022

O presente relatório de pesquisa busca analisar o funcionamento do programa de transferência direta de renda Bolsa Família, a partir de sua condicionante educação. Traz a indagações sobre as possibilidades e necessidades de o modelo aplicado alcançar seus objetivos de consolidação cidadã, aumento de escolarização, acesso ao consumo e superação da condição de vulnerabilidade econômica sob a perspectiva de quebra do ciclo de pobreza ou extrema pobreza a partir do debate da condicionante educacional. O estudo busca ainda identificar os instrumentos previstos nessa condicionalidade, que colabora ao devido controle e resposta social do programa, projetado a proporcionar de fato a reversão das condições iniciais de privações das famílias atendidas.
CONVENIENT HIGH YIELDING GRAM-SCALE SOLID PHASE SYNTHESIS OF AN ETB RECEPTOR AGONIST AND ANTAGONIST OF ENDOTHELIN-1: IRL-1620 AND IRL-1038
Authors: Sueiras-Diaz Javier
Published: April 2022

A simple, effective, high yielding synthesis of IRL-1620 and IRL-1.038", selective ETs receptor agonist and antagonist agents respectively is described. The syntheses were carried out on a gram-scale using manual solid phase methodology based on Boc and Fmoc chemistry and two complementary methods of purification. Both syntheses gave1 g of product (> 98% purity, overall yields 20- 25%) on a 3-4 mmol initial loading.
IRON BINDING TO TRANSFERRINS: AN.ANALYSIS OF THE ELECTROSTATIC CONTRIBUTION
Authors: Houldershaw David , Lindley Peter F. , Goodfellow Julia M.
Published: April 2022

We present an analysis of iron binding to human lactoferrin and rabbit serum transferrin using macroscopic
electrostatic calculations. This study, performed using the DELPHI software, shows the overwhelming importance of electrostatic effects in the binding of the synergistic anion and the ferric iron. However, electrostatic effects seem to be Jess important in determining the conformational rearrangement within each lobe.
A Salt Dependent Increase in the Catalytic Activity of the Subtilisin Savinase
Authors: Gron Hanne , Bech Lene M. , Breddam Klaus
Published: April 2022

The proteolytic activity of the subtilisin Savinase is, with some substrates, radically enhanced at increased ionic
strength. At some substrate positions the incorporation of more hydrophobic amino acid residues enhances the beneficial effects of salt addition. At other positions only the incorporation of charged amino acid residues leads to a significant change in the salt dependency. When the substrates are optimized with respect to hydrophobic interactions the enhancing effect of salt. declines. This demonstrates that the beneficial (rate enhancing) effects of salt addition cannot always be accounted for by simple models, e.g., the traditional "salting out" model.
Differential Expression of microRNAs in Acute and Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Kalampogias Aimilios , Oikonomou Evangelos , Siasos Gerasimos , Theofilis Panagiotis , Dimitropoulos Stathis , Gazouli Maria , Gennimata Vasiliki , Marinos Georgios , Charalambous Georgios , Vavouranakis Manolis , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Tousoulis Dimitris
Published: April 2022

Background:

MicroRNAs modify protein expression at the post-transcriptional
level, and their circulating levels may help identify the underlying molecular pathways.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to assess the differential expression of microRNAs
related to myocardial cell energy substrate, autophagy, and ischaemia in chronic
and acute heart failure (HF).

Methods:

In this case-control study, we studied 19 patients with acute HF (AHF) and 19
patients with chronic HF (CHF). Basic demographic and clinical characteristics were collected
from the patients upon arrival, at 48 hours, and at 120 hours. Blood samples for microRNAs
measurements (miR-22, -92a, and -499), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), C
reactive protein, and high sensitivity cardiac troponin I, were collected at all study points.
In this study, we included subjects with a left ventricular ejection fraction of <40%.

Results:

At baseline, circulating miR-22 levels were 1.9-fold higher (p<0.001), miR-92a
levels were 1.25-fold higher (p=0.003), and miR-499 were 5-times lower (p<0.001) in
AHF compared to CHF. Interestingly, circulating miR-499 was found to be associated
with BNP levels (r=0.47, p=0.01). At follow-up, there was a stepwise increase in the levels
of all three examined microRNAs (miR-22, p=0.001, miR-92a, p=0.001, and miR-499,
p<0.001) for AHF but not for CHF subjects.

Conclusions:

MicroRNAs -22, -92a, and -499 are differentially expressed in chronic and
acute HF subjects. MicroRNA signatures are also differentially expressed up to the discharge
of the patients. These findings may have important implications for diagnosis, progression,
and treatment of patients with chronic and acute heart failure.
Advancement of the Cleavage Methods of Carbohydrate-derived Isopropylidene and Cyclohexylidene Ketals
Authors: Gupta Shilpi , Sharma Anjali , Mondal Dhananjoy , Bera Smritilekha
Published: April 2022

Carbohydrates, amino acids, and nucleosides, the fundamental building blocks of complex biomolecules in nature, are essential starting materials for the fabrication of natural and unnatural structural entities, which necessitate the masking and demasking of various functional groups with the utmost chemoselectivity, mildness, and efficiency to avoid unintended bond breaking and formation, as well as associated reactions. Ketals, benzylidene, methoxymethyl, p-methoxybenzyl, silyl ethers, trityl, tert-butyl carbamate, and other functional groups are widely used in modern organic synthesis. In carbohydrate chemistry, the commonly used protecting functionality of isopropylidene and cyclohexylidene ketals necessitates effective methods for selective cleavage. This review summarises different methods for deblocking isopropylidene and cyclohexylidene ketals using inorganic acids, Lewis acid, silica- supported inorganic acids, Amberlite-120 (H+) resin, phosphotungstic acid, Nafion-H, NaBArF4.2H2O, montmorillonite clay, Dowex 50W-X8, camphorsulphonic acid (CSA), ceric ammonium nitrate, molecular iodine, ionic liquids, zeolites and so on.
Application of Computational Screening Tools and Nanotechnology for
Enhanced Drug Synergism in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Ninh Thu Thi Kim , Tran Tuan Hiep , F. Huang Chi-Ying , Nguyen Chien Ngoc
Published: April 2022

Background:

Chemoresistance continues to limit the recovery of patients with cancer. New
strategies, such as combination therapy or nanotechnology, can be further improved.

Objective:

In this study, we applied the computational strategy by exploiting two databases (CellMiner
and Prism) to sort out the cell lines sensitive to both anti-cancer drugs, paclitaxel (PTX) and dihydroartemisinin
(DHA); both of which are potentially synergistic in several cell lines.

Methods:

The combination of PTX and DHA was screened at different ratios to select the optimal ratio
that could inhibit lung adenocarcinoma NCI-H23 the most. To further enhance therapeutic efficacy,
these combinations of drugs were incorporated into a nanosystem.

Results:

At a PTX:DHA ratio of 1:2 (w/w), the combined drugs obtained the best combination index
(0.84), indicating a synergistic effect. The drug-loaded nanoparticles sized at 135 nm with the drug loading
capacity of 15.5 ± 1.34 and 13.8 ± 0.56 corresponding to DHA and PTX, respectively, were used.
The nano-sized particles improved drug internalization into the cells, resulting in the significant inhibition
of cell growth at all tested concentrations (p < 0.001). Additionally, α-tubulin aggregation, DNA
damage suggested the molecular mechanism behind cell death upon PTX-DHA-loaded nanoparticle
treatment. Moreover, the rate of apoptosis increased from approximately 5% to more than 20%, and the
expression of apoptotic proteins changed 4 and 3 folds corresponding to p-53 and Bcl-2, respectively.

Conclusion:

This study was designed thoroughly by screening cell lines for the optimization of formulations.
This novel approach could pave the way for the selection of combined drugs for precise cancer
treatment.
Application of Analytical Tools and Techniques for Estimation of a Proton Pump Inhibitor (Esomeprazole Magnesium Trihydrate): A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Acharjya Sasmita Kumari , Dash Sanat Kumar , Chakraborty Atyurmila , Sahoo Mitali , Tripathy Satyanarayan , Tripathy Bimala , Deo Ramanath
Published: April 2022

The application of various sophisticated analytical tools and techniques is essential for estimating an active pharmaceutical ingredient present in either biofluids or pharmaceutical dosage forms. Reporting the multiple analytical methods used to quantify esomeprazole magnesium trihydrate, a proton pump inhibitor, is the ultimate goal of this review article. This article deals with a detailed discussion of different reported analytical procedures along with their pros and cons and their relevant criteria for quantifying the drug. Various analytical techniques like UV-Visible spectrophotometry, HPLC, HPTLC, hyphenated techniques, etc., are developed to assess the esomeprazole magnesium trihydrate in bulk materials, different pharmaceutical formulations, and biological matrices. Literature survey confirmed that the hyphenated techniques and chromatographic techniques are the best tools for biological matrices. Spectroscopic methods like UV and visible techniques are widely used for pharmaceutical matrices. All of the reported methods are accurate, precise, costeffective, and sensitive.
GC-FID Quantification of N, N-Dimethyl Aminopropyl Chloride, a Genotoxic
Impurity, in Imipramine Hydrochloride and Clomipramine Hydrochloride
Authors: Prakash M. Shet , Chinna Panga , Ramakrishna Ramesha Andagar , Sreenivasa Swamy , Singh Yashbir
Published: April 2022

Background:

Early antidepressant Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) like Imipramine hydrochloride and Clomipramine hydrochloride have not been assessed for Genotoxic Impurities (GTI) as per ICHM7.

Objective:

The main aim of the study was to develop a new simple and sensitive method for the determination of genotoxic impurities in Imipramine hydrochloride and Clomipramine hydrochloride active pharmaceuticals ingrediens.

Methods:

A simple, selective, and sensitive gas chromatography (GC) liquid injector method was developed for the quantitative determination of N, N-Dimethyl amino propyl chloride (DAPC) in API s. This method provided an excellent sensitivity and a typical target analyte level of 4.0 ppm. The DPAC content in the sample was analyzed on ZB-624, 30m x 0.53mm x 3.0μm column interfaced with a flame ionization detector (FID). The developed method was validated as per ICH guidelines.

Results:

The validated method showed good linearity over the concentration range of LOQ to 120% (1.18ppm to 4.8ppm) with a correlation coefficient of 0.9986. Limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were found to be 0.36 ppm and 1.18 ppm, respectively. This method showed high sample recovery (>90.0%).

Conclusion:

The developed method was a simple and sensitive gas chromatography liquid injector method. This method was validated as per ICH guidelines and could be very useful for the determination of a potential genotoxic impurity (DAPC) in imipramine hydrochloride and clomipramine hydrochloride active drug substance quality checking and ensuring safety of the patients.
Drug Targeting and Conventional Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: Analysis
of Target-specific Nanotherapies in Disease Models
Authors: Campbell Robert B. , Tran Christina , Park Eden , Flores Pedro L. Rodriguez
Published: April 2022

Extensive studies have explored potential therapies against multiple myeloma (MM), whether
in hospitals, universities, or in private institutional settings. Scientists continue to study the mechanism(s)
underlying the disease as a basis for the development of more effective treatment options. There are
many therapeutic agents and treatment regimens used for multiple myeloma. Unfortunately, no cure or
definitive treatment options exist. The goal of treatment is to maintain the patient in remission for as long
as possible. Therapeutic agents used in combination can effectively maintain patients in remission. While
these therapies have increased patient survival, a significant number of patients relapse. The off-target
toxicity and resistance exhibited by target cells remain a challenge for existing approaches. Ongoing efforts
to understand the biology of the disease offer the greatest chance to improve therapeutic options.
Nanoparticles (targeted drug delivery systems) offer new hope and directions for therapy. This review
summarizes FDA-approved agents for the treatment of MM, highlights the clinical barriers to treatment,
including adverse side effects normally associated with the use of conventional agents, and describes how
nanotherapeutics have overcome barriers to impede conventional treatments.
An Investigation on Self-Medication Practice During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Among the Indian Population
Authors: Kamboj Rohit , Kamboj Sweta , Joginath Anuj , Guarve Kumar , Kriplani Priyanka , Kumar Sachin , Guatam Surya Prakash
Published: April 2022

Background:

Self-medication has both negative and beneficial effects on people's
health, as the COVID-19 epidemic has demonstrated. The goal of the study is to look into the epidemiology
of self-medicated medications used for respiratory symptoms, as a COVID-19 preventive,
for its symptoms, or after a positive COVID-19 test, and to see how symptom relief is viewed
in India, as well as what demographic factors encourage self-medication.

Methods:

Using a trial version of Qualtrics Core XM software to prototype 24 surveys, a webbased
questionnaire was built, tested, and disseminated in several Indian states.

Result:

In the survey, 519 candidates participated. 43% of respondents reported that all symptoms
were relieved. However, just 39% of all respondents took the government-recommended
Ayushkwath, and 56% took a vitamin C tablet to improve immunity. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and
azithromycin were shown to be the most commonly used medications for various symptoms, including
fever, weariness, cough, sneezing, loose motion, and immune boost, and breathing problems.

Conclusion:

Self-medication was common, with many people taking drugs for which there was little
scientific evidence. The frequency of self-medication was connected to age, region, and employment
position.
Advances in the Application of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Xu Yiran , Wang Shuxia , Zhu Ping
Published: April 2022

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a type of pluripotent stem cells induced by somatic cells. It was found that differentiated cells could be reprogrammed to a pluripotent state by the expression of the four transcription factors such as Oct3/4, Sox2, c-Myc, and Klf4. This technology can be applied to reprogramme the patient cells into iPSCs, which further be induced into research-required cells or tissues. Nowadays, a great number of reprogramming methods and various types of somatic cells can be used to produce iPSCs. The advancement of this technology provides a promising pathway to disease models building, drug development, and the corresponding cell-based therapy. Alzheimer's diseases (AD) and Parkinson's diseases (PD) are complex diseases affected by many factors, including genetic and environmental factors. Until now, there are no effective treatments to reverse these diseases because the pathogenesis of these complex diseases is still not well understood. One important reason is that the existing disease model cannot fully recapitulate the pathologies of these multifactorial associated diseases and iPSCs have the potential to resolve this difficulty. In this review, we discuss the application progress of iPSCs in AD and PD, including disease modeling, drug development, and cellbased therapies.
Mass Transfer of Olanzapine in the Liquid Lamellar Phases Formed by the Self-assembly of Glycerol Monooleate (GMO):
Experimental Data and Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Khanali Mehdi , Bagheri Gita
Published: April 2022

Aims:

The present study aimed to optimise the formulation of Olanzapine
(OZ)-loaded liquid lamellar phase by using Response Surface Methodology (RSM).

Background:

In this study, poly (2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEOZ) was selected to modify
liquid lamellar phases. The OZ was released from the phases mainly through swelling
and diffusion-controlled mechanism simultaneously.

Objective:

Additionally, two types of mathematical models, based on the lumped and
diffusion approaches, were presented for the diffusional release of OZ from the liquid
lamellar phases, the second of which was solved with an analytical solution. The controlled
release profiles of the models were compared with the in vitro experimental release
profiles.

Method:

Further, the Box-Behnken experimental design was employed to design the
liquid lamellar phase with the three factors, including the weight ratio of water/GMO
(w/w) (X1) and PEOZ/GMO (w/w) (X2), and the percentage of OZ (X3). The liquid lamellar
phases were prepared based on the top-down method, followed by fragmentation
by sonication. Furthermore, the diffusion coefficients of the liquid lamellar phases were
calculated, and the effects of variables were evaluated on particle size and diffusion coefficient,
as well as the constant of the lumped model.

Result:

The results revealed an increase in particle size following an enhancement in water
level in the liquid lamellar phases, as well as less aggregation with the addition of PEOZ.

Conclusion:

The generated model was validated by comparing the experimental data and
predicted model values graphically, the results of which represented compatibility between
the lumped model and experimental data.
Improved SinGAN for Single-Sample Airport Runway Destruction Image
Generation
Authors: Wang JinYu , Zhang ChangGong , Yang HaiTao
Published: April 2022

Aims:

To solve the problem of difficult acquisition of airport runway destruction image
data.

Objectives:

This paper introduces SinGAN, a single-sample generative adversarial network
algorithm.

Methods:

To address the shortcomings of SinGAN in image realism and diversity generation, an
improved algorithm based on the combination of Gaussian error linear unit GELU and efficient
channel attention mechanism ECANet is proposed

Results:

Experiments show that its generated image results are subjectively better than SinGAN
and its lightweight algorithm ConSinGAN, and the model can obtain an effective balance in both
quality and diversity of image generation.

Conclusion:

The algorithm effect is also verified using three objective evaluation metrics, and the
results show that the method in this paper effectively improves the generation effect compared
with SinGAN, in which the SIFID metric is reduced by 46.67%.
mHealth Apps for Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation: Systematic Search in App Stores and Content Analysis
Authors: Ryan Shíofra , Ní Chasaide Noirín , O' Hanrahan Shane , Corcoran Darragh , Caulfield Brian , Argent Rob
Published: April 2022

Background

The number of mobile health (mHealth) apps released for musculoskeletal (MSK) injury treatment and self-management with home exercise programs (HEPs) has risen rapidly in recent years as digital health interventions are explored and researched in more detail. As this number grows, it is becoming increasingly difficult for users to navigate the market and select the most appropriate app for their use case. It is also unclear what features the developers of these apps are harnessing to support patient self-management and how they fit into clinical care pathways.

Objective

The objective of this study was to scope the current market of mHealth apps for MSK rehabilitation and to report on their features, claims, evidence base, and functionalities.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of apps for MSK rehabilitation was performed across the iTunes App Store and Google Play Store. Four search terms were used, namely, physiotherapy rehabilitation, physical therapy rehabilitation, rehabilitation exercise, and therapeutic exercise to identify apps, which were then cross-referenced against set selection criteria by 4 reviewers. Each reviewer, where possible, downloaded the app and accessed supplementary literature available on the product to assist in data extraction.

Results

A total of 1322 apps were identified. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria and removing duplicates, 144 apps were included in the study. Over half (n=81, 56.3%) of the included apps had been released within the past 3 years. Three quarters (n=107, 74.3%) of the apps made no reference to evidence supporting the design or efficacy of the app, with only 11.1% (n=16) providing direct citations to research. Most of the apps did utilize exercise pictures (n=138, 95.8%) or videos (n=97, 67.4%); however, comparatively few harnessed additional features to encourage engagement and support self-management, such as an adherence log (n=66, 45.8%), communication portal (n=32, 22.2%), patient-reported outcome capture (n=36, 25%), or direct feedback (n=57, 39.6%). Of note and concern, many of these apps prescribed generic exercises (n=93, 64.6%) in the absence of individualized input to the user, with few providing specific patient education (n=43, 34%) and safety advice or disclaimers (n=38, 26.4%).

Conclusions

The cohort of apps included in this study contained a large heterogeneity of features, so it is difficult for users to identify the most appropriate or effective app. Many apps are missing the opportunity to offer key features that could promote exercise adherence and encourage self-management in MSK rehabilitation. Furthermore, very few developers currently offering products on the market are providing evidence to support the design and efficacy of their technologies.
Improving Postoperative Care Through Mindfulness-Based and Isometric Exercise Training Interventions: Systematic Review
Authors: Reynolds Allie , Hamidian Jahromi Alireza
Published: April 2022

Background

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and isometric exercise training (IET) interventions are relatively new approaches to maintain physical functioning, alleviate pain, prevent joint stiffness and muscular atrophy, and positively influence other postoperative care outcomes.

Objective

The aim of this review was to identify the impacts of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) and IET and, more specifically, their combination, which have not previously been assessed to our knowledge.

Methods

Studies were identified by searching the PubMed and Cochrane databases within the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) algorithm format and using relevant keyword combinations, which resulted in 39 studies meeting the inclusion criteria.

Results

In general, MBI was shown to positively impact both pain relief and physical functioning, while IET positively impacted physical functioning. Numerous other benefits, including improved quality of life and decreased postoperative opioid use, were also described from both interventions; however, further research is needed to confirm these findings as well as to determine other possible benefits. No studies were found that combined MBI and IET.

Conclusions

Despite many positive results from each individual intervention, there is a lack of information about how the combination of MBI and IET might impact postoperative care. The combination of these two interventions might prove to be more effective than each individual intervention alone, and the findings from this review show that they could even be complementary. Going forward, research should be expanded to study the possible benefits of the combination of MBI and IET in postoperative care routines as well as other possible combinations.
Digital Scientific Platform for Independent Content in Neurology: Rigorous Quality Guideline Development and Implementation
Authors: Kantor Daniel , Farlow Martin , Ludolph Albert , Montaner Joan , Sankar Raman , Sawyer Jr Robert N , Stocchi Fabrizio , Lara Agnès , Clark Sarah , Deschet Karine , Ouyahia Loucif , Hadjiat Yacine
Published: April 2022

Background

Digital communication has emerged as a major source of scientific and medical information for health care professionals. There is a need to set up an effective and reliable methodology to assess and monitor the quality of content that is published on the internet.

Objective

The aim of this project was to develop content quality guidelines for Neurodiem, an independent scientific information platform dedicated to neurology for health care professionals and neuroscientists. These content quality guidelines are intended to be used by (1) content providers as a framework to meet content quality standards and (2) reviewers as a tool for analyzing and scoring quality of content.

Methods

Specific scientific criteria were designed using a 5-point scale to measure the quality of curated and original content published on the website: for Summaries, (1) source reliability and topic relevance for neurologists, (2) structure, and (3) scientific and didactic value; for Congress highlights, (1) relevance of congress selection, (2) congress coverage based on the original program, and (3) scientific and didactic value of individual abstracts; for Expert points of view and talks, (1) credibility (authorship) and topic relevance for neurologists, (2) scientific and didactic value, and (3) reliability (references) and format. The criteria were utilized on a monthly basis and endorsed by an independent scientific committee of widely recognized medical experts in neurology.

Results

Summary content quality for the 3 domains (reliability and relevance, structure, and scientific and didactic value) increased in the second month after the implementation of the guidelines. The domain scientific and didactic value had a mean score of 8.20/10. Scores for the domains reliability and relevance (8-9/10) and structure (45-55/60) showed that the maintenance of these 2 quality items over time was more challenging. Talks (either in the format of interviews or slide deck–supported scientific presentations) and expert point of view demonstrated high quality after the implementation of the content quality guidelines that was maintained over time (15-25/25).

Conclusions

Our findings support that content quality guidelines provide both (1) a reliable framework for generating independent high-quality content that addresses the educational needs of neurologists and (2) are an objective evaluation tool for improving and maintaining scientific quality level. The use of these criteria and this scoring system could serve as a standard and reference to build an editorial strategy and review process for any medical news or platforms.
A Novel Framework for Mixed Reality–Based Control of Collaborative Robot: Development Study
Authors: Shahria Md Tanzil , Sunny Md Samiul Haque , Zarif Md Ishrak Islam , Khan Md Mahafuzur Rahaman , Modi Preet Parag , Ahamed Sheikh Iqbal , Rahman Mohammad H
Published: April 2022

Background

Applications of robotics in daily life are becoming essential by creating new possibilities in different fields, especially in the collaborative environment. The potentials of collaborative robots are tremendous as they can work in the same workspace as humans. A framework employing a top-notch technology for collaborative robots will surely be worthwhile for further research.

Objective

This study aims to present the development of a novel framework for the collaborative robot using mixed reality.

Methods

The framework uses Unity and Unity Hub as a cross-platform gaming engine and project management tool to design the mixed reality interface and digital twin. It also uses the Windows Mixed Reality platform to show digital materials on holographic display and the Azure mixed reality services to capture and expose digital information. Eventually, it uses a holographic device (HoloLens 2) to execute the mixed reality–based collaborative system.

Results

A thorough experiment was conducted to validate the novel framework for mixed reality–based control of a collaborative robot. This framework was successfully applied to implement a collaborative system using a 5–degree of freedom robot (xArm-5) in a mixed reality environment. The framework was stable and worked smoothly throughout the collaborative session. Due to the distributed nature of cloud applications, there is a negligible latency between giving a command and the execution of the physical collaborative robot.

Conclusions

Opportunities for collaborative robots in telerehabilitation and teleoperation are vital as in any other field. The proposed framework was successfully applied in a collaborative session, and it can also be applied in other similar potential applications for robust and more promising performance.
Designing Tangibles to Support Emotion Logging for Older Adults: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Gooch Daniel , Mehta Vikram , Stuart Avelie , Katz Dmitri , Bennasar Mohamed , Levine Mark , Bandara Arosha , Nuseibeh Bashar , Bennaceur Amel , Price Blaine
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

The global population is aging, leading to shifts in health care needs. In addition to developing technology to support physical health, there is an increasing recognition of the need to consider how technology can support emotional health. This raises the question of how to design devices that older adults can interact with to log their emotions.

OBJECTIVE

We designed and developed 2 novel tangible devices, inspired by existing paper-based scales of emotions. The findings from a field trial of these devices with older adults are reported.

METHODS

Using interviews, field deployment, and fixed logging tasks, we assessed the developed devices.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrate that the tangible devices provided data comparable with standardized psychological scales of emotion. The participants developed their own patterns of use around the devices, and their experience of using the devices uncovered a variety of design considerations. We discuss the difficulty of customizing devices for specific user needs while logging data comparable to psychological scales of emotion. We also highlight the value of reflecting on sparse emotional data.

CONCLUSIONS

Our work demonstrates the potential for tangible emotional logging devices. It also supports further research on whether such devices can support the emotional health of older adults by encouraging reflection of their emotional state.
Peer Review of “Using Structural Equation Modelling in Routine Clinical Data on Diabetes and Depression: Observational Cohort Study” (Preprint)
Authors: Jones Chelsea
Published: April 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report related to ms#22912.