bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Działalność Ministerstwa Wyznań Religijnych i Oświecenia Publicznego w Drugiej Rzeczypospolitej w zakresie ochrony przyrody
Authors: Wolter Edyta
Published: September 2020

The article covers the period between 1918 and 1939. The first part explains the normative acts which were the basis for nature conservation and cooperation between the Ministry of Religious Denominations and Public Enlightenment, the Polish Natural Science Museum in Warsaw, and the State Council for Nature Conservation. The second part presents the editorial activities of the State Council for Nature Conservation (the chairman of which was the Minister of Religious Denominations and Public Enlightenment) concerning nature conservation. The authors of the publication are Seweryn Dziubałtowski, Karol Domin, Andrzej Czudek, rev. Henryk Weryński, and Jan Sokołowski. The publication also includes the Act of March 10, 1934, on nature conservation, the provisions of this act being popular in Poland at that time due to the fact that the majority of the population were mainly peasants. 60% of Polish inhabitants lived in rural areas and worked on the land.
Ranga bioindykacji w ekotoksykologii wód
Authors: Sadowska Urszula
Published: September 2020

Bioindication methods are applied in ecotoxicological studies which in turn are widely used in the biological monitoring of surface water. Bioindication has been applied for a long time and so far it has created multiple classificationsbased on diagnosis groups of organisms. Bioindicators play a signi]cant role in bioindication; they are species used to monitor the health of the environment or ecosystem. Some of them are standard test organisms used in ecotoxicologyin the so-called bioassays, which provide a great deal of information about the type and in^uence of pollution. These studies are vital nowadays, as compounds have been found to be the greatest threat to aquatic ecosystems. In relation to ecotoxicology, research allows us to determine bioconcentration, bioaccumulation and biomagni]cation factors, and to assess the ecological status of water used in many different indexes so as to determine such relevant parameters as saprobic, biological bio-diversity and biotic indexes. Poland is preparing for the extension of monitoring systems that take into account all the necessary elements of the environment, even the sediments. It is required by the Water Frame Directive.
Analiza pojęcia światopoglądu ekologicznego
Authors: Czartoszewski Jacek W.
Published: September 2020

The twenty-first century presents challenges for humanity in the context of massive environmental contamination. This problem can only be solved through awareness of man’s place in the world of the Absolute. This requires a high level of self-awareness. This brings about the need for a new approach to socially-oriented ecological thinking; host axiology that values ecology. This worldview without ideology and inaccuracy should be supported by a real basis of Aristotelian-Thomistic thinking. Furthermore, it must avoid gaps in knowledge, hence the community, in addition to possessing scientific, technical, legal and economic knowledge, should be knowledgeable of humanistic anthropology, axiology, theodicy, and religion, gained comprehensively through the use of common sense knowledge, wisdom, science, philosophy, and religion. Otherwise, gaps, inconsistencies, and even contradictions within the meaning of the world dominate and lead to quarrels and antagonism.
Bladder Leiomyomatosis: A case Report
Authors: Farazestanian Marjane , Yousefi Zohreh , Mofrad Malihe Hasanzade , Seresht Leila Mousavi , Jafarian Amir Hosein , Moeindarbari Somayeh
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

Bladder leiomyoma which is commonly found in middle aged females is a rare, benign, and mesenchymal tumor of the bladder. Its incidence rate is lower than 0.5% among all types of bladder tumors. There are fewer than 250 reports on bladder leiomyoma. Herein, we report a case of bladder leiomyoma in a 37 years’ female.

Case Presentation:

A 37-year-old multiparous woman presented with complaints of occasional hematuria and dysuria and irritative symptoms. In the examination and imaging, a mass with size of 8 cm was reported in anterior border of uterus with firm consistency. Surgery was performed and the mass was resected. Postoperative histopathology review confirmed bladder leiomyoma.

Conclusion:

Leiomyoma should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis in women presenting with dysuria, frequency or hematuria and a firm consistency mass even in unusual site as the bladder. Complete resection leads to very good outcome with almost no recurrence.
A Review on Electrochemical Sensing of Cancer Biomarkers Based on Nanomaterial - Modified Systems
Authors: Baghbaderani Sorour Salehi , Mokarian Parastou , Moazzam Parisa
Published: September 2020

Diagnosis of cancer in the early stages can help treat efficiently and reduce cancerrelated death. Cancer biomarkers can respond to the presence of cancer in body fluids before the appearance of any other symptoms of cancer. The integration of nanomaterials into biosensors as electrochemical platforms offer rapid, sensitive detection for cancer biomarkers. The use of surface- modified electrodes by carbon nanomaterials and metal nanoparticles enhances the performance of electrochemical analysis in biosensing systems through the increase of bioreceptors loading capacity on the surface. In this review, novel approaches based on nanomaterial-modified systems in the point of care diagnostics are highlighted.
Emerging Sustainable Nanomaterials and their Applications in Catalysis and Corrosion Control
Authors: Singh Santosh Bahadur
Published: September 2020

Background:

The different field of chemistry needs various greener pathways in our search toward attaining sustainability. True sustainability comes through circularity. Circular processes i.e., circular economy, circular chemistry, etc. are the only logical solutions for all challenges/ issues related to sustainability. Chemistry of matter changes with size. Nanoscale materials thus show magical properties and have a broad range of applications.

Objective:

Nanomaterials always fascinate researchers because of their unique and novel properties. Engineered nanomaterials hold great promise for catalysis, corrosion control, medicine, electronics, environmental remediation, and other fields. But when the nanomaterials or any new/novel materials are synthesized without considering environmental impacts at the beginning of the process, their long-term effects could undermine those advances. Sustainable nanomaterials have great capability to overcome the challenges associated with engineered nanomaterials. Presently, sustainable materials are needed to sustain life on earth. Size and shape controlled synthesis of nanomaterials is challenging to explore the various applications of nanomaterials.

Conclusion:

Application of nanomaterials in catalysis and protective coating of metals to prevent corrosion make it more sustainable. Present article, briefly reviewed the fundamental aspects of nanomaterials, sustainable approaches of nanomaterials synthesis, and their sustainable applications i.e., catalysis and corrosion control.
Evaluation of Snake Venom’s PhospholipaseA2 Enzyme Inhibition Activity of Cyphostemma adenocoule
Authors: Kaushik Atul , Tesfai Teamrat S. , Barkh Daniel K. , Ghebremeskel Furtuna K. , Zerihun Habtom G. , Woldeab Saron W.
Published: September 2020

Background:

A snake bite is fundamentally an injury often resulting in puncture
wounds meted out by the animal's fangs and occasionally resulting in envenomation. Rate of
snake bites around 5,400,000 bites per year leads to over 2,500,000 envenomings and around
125,000 fatal cases annually. Snake venom enzymes are rich in metalloproteinases, phospholipaseA2,
proteinases, acetylcholinesterases and hyaluronidases.

Objective:

Cyphostemma adenocoule is traditionally being used for the treatment of snake
bites in Eritrea. The present research was aimed at evaluating the snake venom enzyme inhibition
activity of C. adenocoule against puff adder venom and developing a base for the traditional
use of the plant against snakebites in Eritrea.

Methods:

The anti-venom activity of C. adenocoule was assessed in-vitro through phospholipaseA2
enzyme inhibition assay using egg yolk as a cell. The ethanol and chloroform extracts
of C. adenocoule showed in vitro anti phospholipase A2 activity, whereas the water
extracts of the plant showed no activity.

Results:

Among the extracts of C. adenocoule, the highest percentage of inhibition was obtained
from chloroform extract (95.55% at 100mg/ml). The extract showed prominent activity
at different concentrations (34.7% at10mg/ml, 48.8% at 20mg/ml, 54.8% at 40mg/ml,
60.9% at 60mg/ml, 80.5% at 80mg /ml). The ethanol extract also showed certain activity at
various concentrations (25.22% at10mg/ml, 14.78% at 20mg/ml, 2.6% at40mg/ml). The activity
of the chloroform extracts increases as concentration increases, whereas the activity of
the ethanol extracts decreases as concentration increases. The aqueous extract of C. adenocoule
did not show any activity at all concentrations.

Conclusion:

In this study, the chloroform and ethanol extracts of the plant inhibited the enzyme
of interest and thus proved the efficacy of anti-snake venom activity of the plant.
Biomarkers in Panic Disorder
Authors: Lai Chien-Han
Published: September 2020

Background:

Panic disorder (PD) is a kind of anxiety disorder that impacts the life quality
and functional perspectives in patients. However, the pathophysiological study of PD seems still
inadequate and many unresolved issues need to be clarified.

Objectives:

In this review article of biomarkers in PD, the investigator will focus on the findings of
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain in the pathophysiology study. The MRI biomarkers
would be divided into several categories, on the basis of structural and functional perspectives.

Methods:

The structural category would include the gray matter and white matter tract studies. The
functional category would consist of functional MRI (fMRI), resting-state fMRI (Rs-fMRI), and
magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). The PD biomarkers revealed by the above methodologies
would be discussed in this article.

Results:

For the gray matter perspectives, the PD patients would have alterations in the volumes of
fear network structures, such as the amygdala, parahippocampal gyrus, thalamus, anterior cingulate
cortex, insula, and frontal regions. For the white matter tract studies, the PD patients seemed to have
alterations in the fasciculus linking the fear network regions, such as the anterior thalamic radiation,
uncinate fasciculus, fronto-occipital fasciculus, and superior longitudinal fasciculus. For the fMRI
studies in PD, the significant results also focused on the fear network regions, such as the amygdala,
hippocampus, thalamus, insula, and frontal regions. For the Rs-fMRI studies, PD patients seemed to
have alterations in the regions of the default mode network and fear network model. At last, the
MRS results showed alterations in neuron metabolites of the hippocampus, amygdala, occipital
cortex, and frontal regions.

Conclusion:

The MRI biomarkers in PD might be compatible with the extended fear network model
hypothesis in PD, which included the amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus, insula, frontal regions, and
sensory-related cortex.
Primary Care Pre-Visit Electronic Patient Questionnaire for Asthma: Uptake Analysis and Predictor Modeling (Preprint)
Authors: Kouri Andrew , Yamada Janet , Sale Joanna E M , Straus Sharon E , Gupta Samir
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

mHealth tablet-based interventions are increasingly being studied and deployed in various health care settings, yet little knowledge exists regarding patient uptake and acceptance or how patient demographics influence these important implementation metrics.

OBJECTIVE

To determine which factors influence the uptake and successful completion of an mHealth tablet questionnaire by analyzing its implementation in a primary care setting.

METHODS

We prospectively studied a patient-facing electronic touch-tablet asthma questionnaire deployed as part of the Electronic Asthma Management System. We describe tablet uptake and completion rates and corresponding predictor models for these behaviors.

RESULTS

The tablet was offered to and accepted by patients in 891/1715 (52.0%) visits. Patients refused the tablet in 33.0% (439/1330) visits in which it was successfully offered. Patients aged older than 65 years of age (odds ratio [OR] 2.30, 95% CI 1.33-3.95) and with concurrent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.05-4.67) were more likely to refuse the tablet, and those on an asthma medication (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.30-0.99) were less likely to refuse it. Once accepted, the questionnaire was completed in 784/891 (88.0%) instances, with those on an asthma medication (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.32-0.88) being less likely to leave it incomplete.

CONCLUSIONS

Older age predicted initial tablet refusal but not tablet questionnaire completion, suggesting that perceptions of mHealth among older adults may negatively impact uptake, independent of usability. The influence of being on an asthma medication suggests that disease severity may also mediate mHealth acceptance. Although use of mHealth questionnaires is growing rapidly across health care settings and diseases, few studies describe their real-world acceptance and its predictors. Our results should be complemented by qualitative methods to identify barriers and enablers to uptake and may inform technological and implementation strategies to drive successful usage.
The PPD-ACT App: Feasibility of a mobile application for recruiting women with postpartum depression and psychosis to a psychiatric genetics study (Preprint)
Authors: Collaton Joanna , Dennis Cindy-Lee , Taylor Valerie H , Grigoriadis Sophie , Oberlander Tim F , Frey Benicio N , Van Lieshout Ryan , Guintivano Jerry , Meltzer-Brody Samantha , Kennedy James L , Vigod Simone N
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Postpartum depression (PPD) is linked to long-standing negative consequences for women and families. Virtual care applications present a solution to the challenge of recruiting large samples for genetic PPD research.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the feasibility of using an iOS mobile application (PPD-ACT app) to collect genetic samples from Canadian women with current or past PPD.

METHODS

Women downloaded the PPD-ACT app to provide consent, phenotypic data, and if they met inclusion criteria, mailing information for a genetic sample. PPD was defined as: (1) Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score of >12 at most severe episode, (2) onset in pregnancy or 0-3 months postpartum, and (3) no preterm birth or severe maternal or child illness. Latent class analysis (LCA) described PPD case phenotypes. Women self-reporting lifetime postpartum psychosis (PPP) were also asked to provide a DNA sample.

RESULTS

Of 797 women meeting PPD case criteria, 75.0% (n=598) agreed to be sent a DNA collection kit; 67.6% of whom (n=404) submitted a sample. Women (86.7% White) came from 11/13 Canadian provinces/territories, with a mean of 4.7 years (SD=7.0) since the PPD episode. LCA identified two PPD classes, clinically distinct by illness severity: (1) moderate severity (mean EPDS=18.5, SD=2.5; 8.6% with suicidality), and (2) severe (mean EDPS=24.5, SD=2.1; 52.8% with suicidality). 109 women self-reported a history of PPP (39 without PPD; 60.7% submitted DNA).

CONCLUSIONS

A mobile application rapidly collected data from women with relatively severe forms of PPD, an advantage for genetics where specificity is optimal, and may be feasible for collecting data from women with a history of the even more rare condition of PPP. Expanding the mobile platform options might increase accessibility as well as the diversity of the sample.
Parents' Perspectives on a Computer Game–Assisted Rehabilitation Program for Manual Dexterity in Children With Cerebral Palsy: Qualitative Analysis of Expectations, Child Engagement, and Benefits (Preprint)
Authors: Kanitkar Anuprita , Parmar Sanjay Tejraj , Szturm Tony J , Restall Gayle , Rempel Gina , Sepehri Nariman
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Children with motor impairments affecting the upper extremity benefit from task-specific therapy, such as constraint-induced movement therapy. However, there is a need to improve engagement and compliance with task-specific exercise programs that target manual dexterity for children with cerebral palsy (CP). A computer game–based rehabilitation (GRP) platform was developed that combines fine manipulation and gross movement exercises with engaging game activities appropriate for young children with CP.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this qualitative analysis were to compare parents’ perspectives and opinions about expectations, challenges, and benefits between 2 interventions.

METHODS

A mixed methods, randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted to examine the feasibility and estimate the effect size of 2 exercise programs for rehabilitation of manual dexterity of children with CP using either GRP or conventional therapy. Parents of 26 of the children who completed the GRP program (n=33) and parents of 15 of the children who completed the conventional therapy program (n=27) participated in the interviews. A general conductive approach was used to analyze the data recorded during the parents’ interviews.

RESULTS

Five themes captured the range of the parent’s experiences, viewpoints, and ideas: (1) parents’ expectations, (2) child’s engagement with therapy, (3) positive effects of the interventions, (4) challenges, and (5) improving the protocol.

CONCLUSIONS

Parents from both groups recognized that their expectations related to improving children’s object handling and manipulation skills including participation in activities of daily life were addressed during the 16-week therapy program. Parents perceived a change in the children’s level of independence in their daily tasks at home, school, and leisure activities.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02728375; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02728375
Application of the Inverted Classroom Model for Teaching Pathophysiology to Chinese Undergraduate Medical Students: Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lin Hui , Zeng Xiaoping , Zhu Jun , Hu Zhenzhen , Ying Ying , Huang Yonghong , Wang Hongmei
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

The inverted classroom model differs from the traditional teaching model as it reverses the pattern of knowledge transfer and internalization. In recent years, this new teaching model has received much attention in undergraduate medical education. Pathophysiology is a course in the undergraduate Chinese medical curriculum that is critical in bridging basic medical science and clinical medicine.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the application of inverted classroom in delivering the course on pathophysiology to Chinese undergraduate medical students.

METHODS

In the spring semester of 2018, inverted classroom teaching was implemented for second-year clinical medicine students at the College of Medicine at Nanchang University. The topics of hypoxia and respiratory failure were selected for the inverted classroom study. The effect of the inverted classroom on teaching pathophysiology was evaluated using classroom performance metrics, a final examination, and questionnaires.

RESULTS

This study found that students in the inverted classroom group achieved higher scores in their in-course assessments (82.35 [SD 11.45] vs 81.33 [SD 9.51], respectively) and in their final exams (73.41 [SD 10.37] vs 71.13 [SD 11.22], respectively) than those in the traditional lecture-based group, but the scores were not significantly different (P=.13, unpaired two-tailed t test). There was also no significant difference in the distribution of the score segments in the class quiz (P=.09, chi-square test) and in the final exams (P=.25, chi-square test) between the 2 groups. Further, most of the students reported that the inverted classroom increased their learning motivation, made them more confident, and helped them understand the content on pathophysiology better. The students in the inverted classroom also improved in their problem-solving skills and teamwork abilities. However, some students from the inverted classroom group also reported that the self-learning and preparatory work before class increased their learning burden.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the feasibility and promise of inverted classroom for teaching pathophysiology to undergraduate Chinese medical students. The inverted classroom improves students’ learning interests and attitudes toward learning. However, further studies are required to assess the benefits of broader acceptance and implementation of the inverted classroom among Chinese undergraduate medical students.
Factors Influencing Anxiety Among WeChat Users During the Early Stages of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mainland China: Cross-sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zou Changqing , Zhang Weiyu , Sznajder Kristin , Yang Fengzhi , Jia Yajing , Ma Ruqing , Cui Can , Yang Xiaoshi
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

The rapid outbreak of COVID-19 around the world has adversely affected the mental health of the public. The prevalence of anxiety among the public has increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are few studies evaluating the effects of positive psychological responses and information-seeking behaviors on anxiety experienced among social media users during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the prevalence of anxiety and its associated factors among WeChat users in mainland China during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

From February 10 to February 24, 2020, a nationwide, web-based cross-sectional survey study was carried out using convenience sampling. Participants’ levels of anxiety, positive psychological responses, and information-seeking behaviors were assessed. The survey was distributed among WeChat users via the WeChat smartphone platform. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the factors associated with anxiety.

RESULTS

This study found that the prevalence of anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item [GAD-7] scale score ≥7) among WeChat users in China was 17.96% (446/2483) during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results of multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that information-seeking behaviors such as cannot stop searching for information on COVID-19, being concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic, and spending more than 1 hour per day consuming information about the pandemic were found to be associated with increased levels of anxiety. Additionally, participants who chose social media and commercial media as the primary sources to obtain information about the COVID-19 pandemic were found more likely to report anxiety. Conversely, participants who were confident or rational about the COVID-19 pandemic were less likely to report anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that positive psychological responses and information-seeking behaviors were closely associated with anxiety among WeChat users during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. It might be paramount to enhance mental well-being by helping people respond to the COVID-19 pandemic more rationally and positively in order to decrease symptoms of anxiety.
Importance of careful data tracking for short-term prediction of COVID-19 case and death numbers from official resources (Preprint)
Authors: Murat Naci
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 outbreak, governments, scientists, health workers, and numerous people worked on strategies or solutions for halting disease propagation. Unfortunately, the need for monitorization is steeply increasing, and taking necessary and restrictive actions is currently unavoidable.

OBJECTIVE

Due to the lack of epidemiological data and constantly changing numbers, constructing less error-prone predictive models and reliable mathematical models for the near future will help make better legal actions and prevention strategies.

METHODS

In this study, daily data of eleven countries between 01/21/2020-05/02/2020 and 01/21/2020-06/17/2020 were used to forecast the number of future COVID-19 events by using different forecasting models. Best fit models were chosen after analysis of present numbers with Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average(ARIMA), Brown’s LES, and Holt’s LES models based on MAPE values.

RESULTS

The study showed the least error-prone best-fit models for short-term future predictions by analyzing two datasets and demonstrated that models changed after data updates among the selected countries. Investigation of the data of USA (Holt’s MAPE=7,7 to ARIMA(2,2,0) MAPE=4,8 for case numbers and ARIMA (2,0,0) MAPE=5,7 to ARIMA(1,2,0) MAPE=3,4 for death numbers), Turkey (ARIMA(2,0,0) MAPE=4,0 to Brown's LES MAPE=1,7 for case numbers and ARIMA(2,1,1) MAPE=0,9 to ARIMA(0,2,0) MAPE=0,9 death numbers), Brazil (Holt's MAPE=6,2 to ARIMA(1,0,1) MAPE=36,4 for case numbers and Brown's MAPE=3,2 to ARIMA(1,2,0) MAPE=2,8 for death numbers), Russia (ARIMA(1,2,0) MAPE=6,8 to ARIMA(1,2,0) MAPE=3,5 for case numbers and ARIMA(1,1,1) MAPE=3,7 to ARIMA(2,2,0) MAPE=3,5 for death numbers) demonstrated that at the same time flow, updating data caused alterations in the model selection, which results with changes in the predictions.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate that using more than one statistical model have superiority in the current approaches and fluctuations in the numbers should be taken into account when using the data to construct mathematical models and create future predictions for the management of already complicated and exhausting COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, policies and restrictions against COVID-19 spread might be more successful after considering that adjusted predictions for provide more accurate results.
PREPARATION OF COLD CREAM AGAINST CLINICAL PATHOGEN USING CARALLUMA ADSCENDENS VAR. ATTENUATA
Authors: MADASAMY SUNDAR , SUNDAN SURESH , KRISHNASAMY LINGAKUMAR
Published: September 2020

Objective: A simple formulation of cold cream from methanolic extract Caralluma adscendens var. attenuata (MECA) and their antimicrobial activity was tested against various clinical pathogens, namely, Escherichia coli, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium, and Candida albicans.

Methods: Methanol extract of these plant extract was prepared by the Soxhlet method. We analyzed phytochemical nature of theses plant, and subsequently, a cream was formulated cold-cream C. adscendens var. attenuata (FCA) different concentration such as FCA 50 mg, FCA 100 mg, and FCA 200 mg. In the present study, aimed to the antimicrobial activity of cold cream was measured by agar well diffusion method, and standard antibiotic Neosporin (market available) cream was used as positive control and dummy cold cream (without-MECA) were used as the negative control.

Results: Phytochemical screening showed that the plant extracts were found a rich source of secondary metabolites. For more, the efficacy of cold cream from MECA extracts to against the clinical pathogen. Positive control Neosporin and 200 mg FCA cream was a highly significant difference in the zone of inhibition when compared to dummy cream. The 200 mg FCA was activity against Escherichia coli, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant E. faecium, and C. albicans highly significantly difference (p<0.05) compared FCA 50 mg and FAC 100 mg creams.

Conclusion: The results from this study suggested that the cold cream form base of MECA crude had antimicrobial activity in the different clinical pathogen. They could be used as an alternative source to conventional antimicrobial agents for the treatment of pathological infection.
STABILITY-INDICATING METHOD DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS ESTIMATION OF ROSUVASTATIN CALCIUM AND CLOPIDOGREL BISULFATE IN PHARMACEUTICAL DOSAGE FORM BY REVERSE-PHASE HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY
Authors: PIMPALE AWDHUT , KAKDE RAJENDRA
Published: September 2020

Objective: The present work was focused on the development and validation of reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method which is simple, rapid, precise, accurate, sensitive, economical, and stability-indicating for the quantification of rosuvastatin (RSV) calcium and clopidogrel bisulfate (CLO) in bulk and tablet formulation.

Methods: The separation was attained on RP Princeton (C18) column with dimensions (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μ) employing buffer which is a mixture of water (pH 3.0, adjusted with orthophosphoric acid), and methanol in the ratio (20:80) v/v as mobile phase, at flow rate 1.0 ml/min and detection was carried out at wavelength 240 nm. The retention time under the optimized condition of RSV calcium and CLO was found to be 2.844 min and 4.388 min, respectively.

Results: The linearity of the method was demonstrated in the concentration range of 6–16 µg/ml and 45–120 µg/ml for RSV calcium and CLO with a correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.9999 and 0.9996, respectively. The percentage relative standard deviation was ˂2% and percentage recovery was found to be 100.12–101.37% and 99.72–101.09% for RSV calcium and CLO, respectively. Assay of marketed tablet formulation was found to be 98.99% and 99.92%, respectively.

Conclusion: The developed RP-HPLC method was found to be simple, specific, sensitive, rapid, linear, accurate, precise, and economical and could be used for regular quality control of RSV calcium and CLO in bulk and tablet formulations.
MATERNAL AND FETAL TOXICITY-INDUCED BY NICKEL OXIDE NANOPARTICLES ADMINISTRATION IN ALBINO RATS DURING GESTATION
Authors: HAMDI HAMIDA
Published: September 2020

Objective: Despite the widespread of nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs) and their benefits in all fields, they have many negative effects on human life, especially expectant mothers and their fetus. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible maternal and developmental toxicity-induced by NiO NPs administration during gestation.

Methods: Three groups of pregnant rats were administered orally during days 5–19 of gestation, the pregnant rats were haphazardly designed into three groups (six rat/group), as follows: Control group and NiO NPs administered groups, low (4 mg/kg), and high (8 mg/kg) doses.

Results: NiO NPs administration resulted in severe maternal and developmental toxicity which included reduction in uterine weight, mother weight gain, the average weight of placenta, the number corpora lutea, implantation sites, and the number of live fetuses. Furthermore, high pre/ postimplantation, fetal growth retardation, and morphological and skeletal anomalies, an elevation in liver and brain DNA damage in both mother and fetus, and histopathological alterations in different tissues (placenta, liver, kidney, and brain) of pregnant rats and fetuses. Lipid peroxidation showed a significant elevation in maternal, fetal liver, and brain tissues of NiO NPs ‐administered rats. Furthermore, glutathione content and catalase activity were decreased in both tissues of NiO NPs‐administered rats.

Conclusion: Finally, the detrimental impacts of NiO NPs in dams and fetuses probably through its potential generation of reactive oxygen species.
KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARD E-PHARMACY AMONG THE PHYSICIANS OF SOUTH RAJASTHAN, INDIA: A PILOT SURVEY
Authors: YADAV ARVIND KUMAR , PICHHOLIYA MEENU , SHETH HAIYA , GUPTA SANGITA , CHOUDHARY SAVITA
Published: September 2020

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and attitude of physicians of South Rajasthan, India, toward e-pharmacy.

Methods: After obtaining ethical approval, this cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was carried out for 6 months at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Physicians willing to participate were included in the study. The study questionnaire comprised 10 questions which were validated by experts. Physicians were requested to fill up the questionnaire in the presence of researcher and return it back. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel Office 365.

Results: A total of 170 questionnaires were analyzed. Male/female ratio of the physicians was 1.24:1. About 91.76% of physicians had heard of e-pharmacy but only 22.35% had ever used it. About 89.41% of physicians had never asked patients to buy medicines from e-pharmacy. About 67.64% of physicians considered e-pharmacy as ethical. However, 56.47% of physicians thought that e-pharmacy is risky.

Conclusion: Physicians must remain up-to-date about these recent technologies like e-pharmacy; as it is expected to become much more common in the next few years. Ethical and non-risky methods should be adopted for the same by them. Overall, a balance should be maintained while opting for online pharmacy.
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND EVALUATION OF LEAF PARTS OF HYPOESTES PHYLLOSTACHYA ROSEA FOR IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES
Authors: JACOB JENSON , JOHN MEENU
Published: September 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was focussed on phytochemical analysis, in vitro antioxidant activities of different solvent extracts of Hypoestes phyllostachya leaf.

Methods: The leaves were washed efficiently, shade dried and coarsely powdered. The powdered leaf material of Hypoestes phyllostachya was successively extracted with hexane, chloroform, methanol and water using Soxhlet apparatus. Preliminary phytochemical screenings for polyphenolics, proteins, phytosteroids, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, alkaloids carbohydrates, polyphenolics, saponins were done by following standard procedure. In vitro antioxidant activities of various solvent extracts were assessed using DPPH, ABTS, Hydroxy radical, total antioxidant capacity and reducing power assay. Polyphenolics and flavonoids were also estimated.

Results: The results showed that most of the phytochemical compounds such as carbohydrates, proteins, steroids, fixed oils and fatty acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, polyphenolics and glycosides present in the methanolic and aqueous extract of Hypoestes phyllostachya. The in vitro antioxidant activity of Hypoestes phyllostachya leaf clearly showed that it has better antioxidant activity, which was confirmed by different assays.

Conclusion: From this work, it can be concluded that Hypoestes phyllostachya has the potential to be a good antioxidant but have only a lesser amount of flavonoids and polyphenolic contents. This was the first report on the pharmacological activity of the Hypoestes phyllostachya.
FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF FAST DISSOLVING FILMS OF EBASTINE
Authors: TORGAL TEJASVI , BORKAR SHWETA , BHIDE PRASHANT , ARONDEKAR ASMITA
Published: September 2020

Objective: To overcome the limitations of fast dissolving tablets, a novel fast dissolving film of ebastine was formulated for attaining quick onset of action, aiding in the enhancement of bioavailability favorable in severe conditions of allergies.

Methods: Films of ebastine were prepared by the solvent casting method using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose E-15, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K-4 as a film base with different concentrations of crospovidone as superdisintegrant and polyethylene glycol-400 as a plasticizer. Further physical characteristics such as uniformity of weight, thickness, and drug content uniformity, tensile strength, folding endurance, percentage elongation, surface pH, disintegration and in vitro drug release were evaluated.

Results: The optimized formulations with film base hydroxypropyl methylcellulose E-15 and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K-4 containing 8% crospovidone showed 99.34 % and 97.42 % of maximum cumulative percentage release respectively exhibiting first order kinetics. However, no significant change was observed in stability studies.

Conclusion: The concept of formulating fast dissolving films of ebastine offers a suitable approach in exhibiting rapid onset of action with improved delivery.
PROTON PUMP INHIBITORS AND THE RISK OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASES: A CRITICAL REVIEW
Authors: J. SHAREEF , S. B. SRIDHAR , A. SHARIFF
Published: September 2020

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are most widely used medications for acid related gastrointestinal disorders. Accessible evidence based studies suggest that the increased use of PPI is linked to a greater risk of developing kidney diseases. This review aims to determine the association of kidney disease with the use of proton pump inhibitor with various study designs. PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases as well as a reference list of relevant articles were systematically searched for studies by using the following search terms; ‘proton pump inhibitors’, ‘acute kidney injury’, ‘chronic kidney disease’ and ‘end stage renal disease’. Both observational and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring the association of PPI use with kidney disease were eligible for inclusion. A total of 8 articles, including 9 studies (n = 794,349 participants) were identified and included in the review. Majority of the studies showed a higher risk of kidney outcomes in patients taking PPIs, with effect higher of acute kidney injury (4-to 6-fold) compared with chronic kidney disease and end stage renal disease (1.5-to 2.5-fold). However, the studies suggest that the strength of evidence is weak and could not prove causation. The risk increased considerably with the use of high dose of PPIs and prolonged duration of exposure necessitates the monitoring of renal function. Exercising vigilance in PPI use and cessation of proton pump inhibitor when there is no clear indication may be a reasonable approach to reduce the population burden of kidney diseases.
Protracted Public Service Improvement at the Local Level
Authors: Holidin Defny
Published: September 2020

Artikel ini bertujuan pada eksaminasi kesesuaian agenda kebijakan sertifikasi pelayanan publik dengan mempertimbangkan kinerja pemerintahan daerah saat ini. Studi dilakukan dengan pendekatan kualitatif dengan pengumpulan data secara intensif yang menimbang spesifikasi konteks lokal menurut kebijakan desentralisasi yang menjadi arus utama reformasi struktural tata kelola pemerintahan di Indonesia. Meski standar pelayanan publik diberlakukan berdasarkan peraturan-peraturan turunan Undang-Undang Pelayanan Publik No. 25 Tahun 2009, upaya lebih lanjut oleh pemerintahan daerah tak pelak diperlukan. Studi ini dijalankan secara kualitatif di Surabaya, memperhitungkan posisinya pada papan atas pemerintahan daerah yang reformis dan inovatif. Studi ini terdiri atas analisis dokumen kebijakan dan wawancara mendalam untuk pengumpulan datanya. Hasil studi menunjukkan bahwa implementasi sertifikasi pelayanan publik sekiranya bisa mengarah pada penyesuaian struktural. Terlepas dari kategorisasi layanan pemerintah menurut karakternya masing-masing, berbagai penyesuaian struktural diperlukan menurut konteks masing-masing daerah. Pelibatan berbagai komunitas lokal perlu pengembangan lebih lanjut sebagai cara standar memastikan bahwa sertifikasi tidak hanya relevan tapi juga menjadi bagian integral dari strategi peningkatan pembangunan daerah.

The article aims at examining the suitability of the policy agenda of public service certification for the prevalence of local governments' performance. I conduct qualitative approach with intensive data collection, considering of local context specificities upon which decentralization has been mainstreaming in the state structural reform in Indonesia. Although the public service standard takes into effects based on certain regulations derived from the Public Service Act 25/2009, efforts made by local government is deemed necessary. To make the study manageable, I conduct a case study qualitatively in Surabaya considering its prominence in local bureaucracy reform and innovation. I conduct a series of policy document analysis and in-depth interviews for data enquiry. I suggest that the implementation of public service certification is likely to lead to various adjustments towards strengthening the standards to be applied. Apart from categorizing the government services according to the different characteristics of each type of service, various structural adjustments are necessary according to the local context of each region. The local community involvement mechanism still needs improvements as standard enforcement in all regions so that public service certification is not only relevant but also an integral part of the local development improvement strategy.
Matching financial closeness with social distancing: Networking digital platforms within a corporate governance ecosystem
Authors: Moro-Visconti Roberto , Quirici Maria Cristina , Borroni Mariarosa
Published: September 2020

The Covid-19 – Coronavirus pandemic has rapidly spread around the world, demanding for social distancing measures as a strategy to soften contagion. Whereas social closeness proves dangerous, financial proximity is increasingly needed and can be guaranteed by FinTechs or applications, like digital platforms. Networking platforms may be represented by bridging nodes like Mobile banking (M-banking) hotspots. M-banking and FinTech applications are fully consistent with distancing prescriptions and ease financial inclusion, allowing for 24/7 operativity. This study proposes an innovative interpretation of the networking properties of digital platforms and M-banking that represent a new – virtual – stakeholder, showing how they improve corporate governance interactions. Due to their scalability, platforms foster cooperative value co-creating patterns, with deep albeit still under-investigated governance implications. Network governance is a novel approach to describe the stakeholders’ ecosystem, and its value-adding physical and virtual interactions. The paper shows how to match virtual financial proximity with apparently contradicting social distancing. This study represents an advance in the literature, as it investigates about its smart (digital) extensions that can represent a shield against pandemic adversities, reducing transaction costs, and information asymmetries.
Efecto de la suplementación nutricional sobre el balance energético en vacas lecheras en trópico bajo
Authors: Campos-Gaona Rómulo , Morales Juan David , Espinoza Natalia
Published: September 2020

Introducción. La producción lechera intensiva o semi intensiva demanda alta oferta de alimentos para cumplir con los requerimientos nutricionales de la misma, éstos no logran ser proporcionados a la vaca recién parida en pastoreo, por la depresión del consumo, los cambios metabólicos y endocrinos ocurridos durante el periodo de transición. El menor consumo de alimento y el aumento en las exigencias para producción de leche, llevan al animal a un Balance Energético Negativo (BEN), el cual debe ser superado rápidamente para garantizar una mejor tasa reproductiva y una mayor producción de leche. Objetivo. Estudiar opciones de suplementación nutricional durante el periodo de transición, para reducir el Balance Energético Negativo. Materiales y métodos. Se emplearon 28 vacas adultas, en un sistema semi intensivo de producción de leche, ubicado en trópico bajo. Se formularon cuatro tratamientos: TT1, grupo control; TT2, grasa sobrepasante; TT3, nitrógeno no proteico encapsulado, y TT4, monensina sódica. Se analizaron hormonas y metabolitos relacionados con energía, proteína y minerales. Mediante ultrasonografía, se determinó la dinámica folicular y la presencia de cuerpo lúteo, igualmente se evaluaron indicadores reproductivos y producción de leche. El periodo de muestreo hasta los 105 días posparto permitió el análisis de la primera fase de lactancia e incluir el periodo fisiológico en el cual se espera que la vaca lechera reanude su actividad reproductiva. Resultado. Se presentaron variaciones en los periodos correspondientes al periodo de transición para los principales indicadores del metabolismo energético. La reactivación ovárica mostró que no fue rápida, sin embargo, hubo efecto sobre los días abiertos y la eficiencia reproductiva. Conclusión. Las concentraciones de hormonas y metabolitos analizados no presentaron variaciones significativas. Se evidenció efecto de al menos un tratamiento frente al control; igualmente, se presentaron variaciones en algunos periodos analizados. El comportamiento reproductivo fue deficiente.
Capacidades dinámicas: aportes y tendencias
Authors: Cadrazco-Parra Wilson , Zapata-Domínguez Álvaro , Lombana-Coy Jahir
Published: September 2020

El enfoque de capacidades dinámicas, constituye una alternativa de análisis dentro del área disciplinar de la gestión estratégica. La revisión de autores seminales permite exponer sus componentes y contextos de aplicación. Este enfoque permite plantear un marco teórico ordenado para ser aplicado en entornos de alta volatilidad como los actuales. Las empresas generan capacidades que les permiten responder rápidamente ante los requerimientos del mercado, adecuarse a los cambios tecnológicos y operar en un futuro impredecible. Cuando las organizaciones desarrollan capacidades dinámicas, adaptan y reconfiguran los recursos y capacidades, para atender las exigencias del entorno.
Hacia un saber del cuerpo en el aula: una experiencia educativa
Authors: Gallo Luz Elena , Planella Jordi , Ramírez Diana Marcela
Published: September 2020

Introducción: este trabajo reconoce las críticas que hacen algunos estudios a las maneras como la Educación se ha ocupado del cuerpo en contextos de aula: cuerpos fijos, inmóviles, silenciosos y normalizados; frente a la visión de la educación moderna que se dirige hacia lo razonable y estrecha lo sensible, la pregunta por los rastros corpográficos no trata únicamente de poner el cuerpo en la Educación, sino de pensar cómo se hace y qué se hace con los cuerpos en contextos de aula universitaria. Objetivo: identificar los rastros corpográficos o las maneras como se le da la “palabra” al cuerpo en el aula a partir de la experiencia de enseñar en contextos de aula universitaria. Materiales y métodos: se trata de una investigación educativa con método rizomático (rhizoanalytic). El trabajo empírico privilegió la observación de la escena o el encuentro pedagógico (la clase), la entrevista y el análisis documental de materiales propios de las clases. Resultados: los rastros corpográficos que surgen de la experiencia de enseñar en contextos de aula universitaria dan cuenta de dos dimensiones: la primera, anuncia la idea de Aula viva cuando los cuerpos se hacen presentes: Corpo-Sonoridades; Corpo-Biografías; Corpo- Geografías de la piel y una Corpografía motriz. La segunda dimensión indica la germinación de un plano de composición para una Educación Corporal: “Pedagogías que elogian la lentitud”, “Pedagogías del tacto”, Pedagogías que anuncian un saber de sí”, “Pedagogías de la experiencia” y “Pedagogías de la presencia”. Conclusiones: En estas experiencias de aula universitaria encontramos nuevas relaciones entre los cuerpos y la educación más allá de la perspectiva disciplinaria que arraiga el adiestramiento con la idea de ocultar el sujeto de su cuerpo. Analizar las formas como se “grafían” los cuerpos en el aula vuelve movediza la didáctica, porque pensar desde el cuerpo exige habitar el aula con pedagogías “encarnadas” que resultan reveladoras para un pensar “corporal” y estimular la creación de unas didácticas-otras o heterodidácticas.