bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comprehensive Guide to the Development, Evaluation, and Future Prospects
of Self-nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems for Poorly Water-soluble
Drugs
Authors: Chauhan Abhishek , Kamal Raj , Mishra Ritika , Shekho Devank , Awasthi Ankit
Published: April 2024

Self-Nano Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SNEDDS) are novel formulations that can enhance
the solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. SNEDDS are composed of lipids, surfactants,
co-solvents, and drugs and can spontaneously form nanoemulsions when mixed with water under mild agitation.
SNEDDS can be formulated as liquid or solid dosage forms and can improve drug absorption by increasing
the interfacial area, protecting the drug from degradation, and facilitating lymphatic transport. SNEDDS is
characterized by various parameters such as particle size, zeta potential, droplet morphology, emulsification efficiency,
drug solubility, and stability. SNEDDS offers several advantages over conventional dosage forms,
such as dose reduction, faster onset of action, reduced variability, versatility, and ease of formulation. However,
SNEDDS also face some limitations and challenges, such as drug precipitation, cost-effectiveness, compatibility
with capsule shells, and lack of predictive in vitro models. SNEDDS has a promising future in the field
of pharmaceuticals, especially for personalized medicine and targeted drug delivery.
Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking Analysis and Molecular Dynamics
Simulation of Scutellaria baicalensis in the Treatment of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Wang Junrui , Wu Zhuoqing , Chen Xiaolei , Sun Ying , Ma Shuyao , Weng Jingdan , Zhang Yuxin , Dong Keke , Shao Jiangjuan , Zheng Shizhong
Published: April 2024

Background:

Traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria Baicalensis (SB), one of the clinical firstline
heat-clearing drugs, has obvious symptomatic advantages for hepatic fibrosis with dampness-heat stasis as
its syndrome. We aim to predict and validate the potential mechanism of Scutellaria baicalensis active ingredients
against liver fibrosis more scientifically and effectively.

Methods:

The underlying mechanism of Scutellaria baicalensis in inhibiting hepatic fibrosis was studied by
applying network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. Expression levels of
markers in activated Hepatic Stellate Cells (HSC) after administration of three Scutellaria baicalensis extracts
were determined by Western blot and Real-time PCR, respectively, in order to verify the anti-fibrosis effect of
the active ingredients

Results:

There are 164 common targets of drugs and diseases screened and 115 signaling pathways obtained,
which were mainly associated with protein phosphorylation, senescence and negative regulation of the apoptotic
process. Western blot and Real-time PCR showed that Scutellaria baicalensis extracts could reduce the expression
of HSC activation markers, and Oroxylin A had the strongest inhibitory effect on it. Molecular docking
results showed that Oroxylin A had high binding activity to target proteins. Molecular dynamics simulation
demonstrates promising stability of the Oroxylin A-AKT1 complex over the simulated MD time of 200
ns.

Conclusion:

Scutellaria baicalensis active ingredients may inhibit HSC proliferation, reduce the generation of
pro-inflammatory factors and block the anti-inflammatory effect of inflammatory signal transduction by inducing
HSC apoptosis and senescence, thus achieving the effect of anti-fibrosis.
The Necroptotic Process-related Signature Predicts Immune Infiltration and Drug Sensitivity in Kidney Renal Papillary Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lin Wenfeng , Xue Ruizhi , Ueki Hideo , Huang Peng
Published: April 2024

Background:

It remains controversial whether the current subtypes of kidney renal papillary
cell carcinoma (KIRP) can be used to predict the prognosis independently.

Objective:

This observational study aimed to identify a risk signature based on necroptotic process-
related genes (NPRGs) in KIRP.

Methods:

In the training cohort, LASSO regression was applied to construct the risk signature
from 158 NPRGs, followed by the analysis of Overall Survival (OS) using the Kaplan-Meier
method. The signature accuracy was evaluated by the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC)
curve, which was further validated by the test cohort. Wilcoxon test was used to compare the expressions
of immune-related genes, neoantigen genes, and immune infiltration between different
risk groups, while the correlation test was performed between NPRGs expressions and drug sensitivity.
Gene set enrichment analysis was used to investigate the NPRGs' signature’s biological
functions.

Results:

We finally screened out 4-NPRGs (BIRC3, CAMK2B, PYGM, and TRADD) for constructing
the risk signature with the area under the ROC curve (AUC) reaching about 0.8. The risk
score could be used as an independent OS predictor. Consistent with the enriched signaling, the
NPRGs signature was found to be closely associated with neoantigen, immune cell infiltration,
and immune-related functions. Based on NPRGs expressions, we also predicted multiple drugs potentially
sensitive or resistant to treatment.

Conclusion:

The novel 4-NPRGs risk signature can predict the prognosis, immune infiltration,
and therapeutic sensitivity of KIRP.
Ligand-based Molecular Modeling of HDL Receptor SR-BI Inhibitors as Potent Anti-hyperlipidemic Agents
Authors: Verma Swati , Paliwal Sarvesh
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

The High-density lipoprotein (HDL) receptor, Scavenger receptor class B,
type I (SRBI) plays a crucial role in lipoprotein metabolism, cholesterol homeostasis, and atherosclerosis.
In the present study, a quantitative structure-activity relationship study (QSAR) investigation
was conducted on a data set of 31 novel indolinyl thiazole-based inhibitors of SR-BI mediated lipid
uptake.

Methods:

To build the QSAR model, Multiple linear regression analysis (MLR), partial least square
analysis (PLS), and neural analysis (NN) were performed which were further evaluated internally as
well as externally for the prediction of activity. The best QSAR model for MLR was selected with a
correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.937, cross-validation r2cv of 0.908, and a standard error (S) value of
0.253. For PLS, r2 was 0.937 and for FFNN r2 was 0.961 (for the training set). This was further
evaluated externally by a test set having r2 values 0.870 (MLR), 0.863(PLS), and 0.933(neural network)
analysis.

Results:

The final model comprised hydrophobic parameters (Lipole Z component) and steric parameters
(molar refractivity and K alpha2 index).

Conclusion:

All these descriptors generated comparable results which prove that the model generated
is sound and has good predictability.
Clinical Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of Recently FDA Approved
Anticancer Drugs: An Updated Review
Authors: Sharma Shikha , Agrawal Anurag , Singh Anuj Kumar , Banik Bimal Krishna
Published: April 2024

Since the beginning of the 21st century, there have been significant advancements in the
field of cancer treatment, resulting in markedly improved outcomes for patients. This review provides
an updated view of some recently developed and FDA-approved small molecules that have been used
to treat various types of cancer on different indications and targets. Some popular search engines,
such as Pubmed, Google Scholar, etc., were considered for the literature review, and drugs approved
by the FDA from 2019 to 2023 were considered for study in this review. This review focuses on the
mechanism of actions and targets via which these FDA-approved small molecules could demonstrate
their clinical efficacy. Moreover, this review would pave the way for the scientific community to look
into the chemical structures of these small molecules to discover more small synthetic compounds
after modification based on structural activity that might be useful in treating various types of cancer.
However, much attention is being paid to how new therapies and tools will change how cancer is
treated in the coming years. This review indicated the increased rate of approvals by the FDA for oncology
treatment during 2019-2023. This surge is primarily driven by the approval of targeted therapies
and the introduction of novel therapeutic approaches.
Recurrent Wheezing in a Child: Unraveling Atypical Presentations of Cystic Fibrosis and Polymorphisms: A Case Report
Authors: Presti Santiago , Lo Bianco Manuela , Papale Maria , Balconara Desiree , Tosto Monica , Sciuto Laura , Mollica Federico , Mule Enza , Aloisio Donatella , Rotolo Novella
Published: April 2024

Background:

Cystic Fibrosis (CF), is the most common, life-limiting, single-gene disease
affecting the Caucasian population, with a reported incidence of1/3500 births. It is inherited
in an autosomal recessive fashion and its diagnosis is notably challenging, since in several cases
CF may not be detected by the newborn screening test and the sweat test, which are frequently reported
negative of with doubtful results, especially in cases with atypical symptoms at onset or
with uncommon mutations or polymorphisms.

Case Presentation:

In this case, we present a case of CF presented with recurrent wheezing, reporting
multiple negative or borderline sweat tests. The genetic evaluation revealed delta F508
(CF- causing) and heterozygous poly T5 polymorphism TG11 (TG)11T5.

Conclusion:

The importance of this case lies in the recognition of wheezing as a symptom and
not as a disease, thus many conditions such as CF have to be considered in its diagnostic process.
Finally, it is of utmost importance to bear in mind that many mutations or polymorphisms might
evade newborn screening and sweat tests.
The Relationship between Breast Cancer Subtypes, Prognostic Factors, and
Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Histogram Analysis
Authors: Aktas Elif , Uylar Seber Tugba , Seber Turgut , Burcek Nihan Vasfiye , Akay Ebru , Arslan Alaettin , Karagöz Eren Saliha , Ozhan Nail , Yaltırık Bilgin Ezel , Savran Burcu , Akdur Pınar
Published: April 2024

Background::

Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a useful method to evaluate tumor biology and tumor microstructure. The apparent diffusion
coefficient (ADC) value correlates negatively with the cellular density of the tumor.

Objective::

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the ADC histogram analysis in showing the relationship between breast cancer prognostic
factors and ADC parameters.

Methods::

This study is a retrospective observational descriptive study. ADC histogram parameters were evaluated in all tumor volumes of 67 breast cancer
patients. Minimum, 5, 10, 25, 50, 75, 90, 95 percentiles, maximum, mean, median ADC values, kurtosis, and skewness were calculated. Breast
MRI examinations were performed on a 3T MR scanner. We evaluated the fibroglandular tissue density of bilateral breasts, background
enhancement, localization of masses, multifocality-multicentricity, shape, rim, internal contrast enhancement, and kinetic curve on breast MRI. BIRADS
scoring was performed according to breast MRI. Pathologically, histologic type, histologic grade, HER 2, Ki 67, ER-, and PR status were
evaluated.

Results::

A significant correlation was found between tumor volume and ADC scores. There is a significant correlation between min ADC values (p<
0.031), max ADC (p< 0.001), and skewness (p< 0.019). A significant correlation was found between tumor kurtosis and lymph nodes (p< 0.029).
There was a significant difference in ADC mean, ADC10%, ADC25%, ADC50%, ADC75%, ADC90%, ADC 95% and ADCmax values depending on ER-and PRstatus.
(for ER p = 0.004, p = 0.018, p = 0.010, p = 0.008, p = 0.004, p = 0.004, p = 0.02, p = 0.02 and p = 0.038, for PR p < 0.001, p = 0.028, p =
0.011, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, p =<0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively; p < 0.05). These values were lower in ER-and PR-positive status
than in ER-and PR-negative receptor status. According to HER2 status, there was a statistically significant difference in ADC5% and measurements
of the lesions (p = 0.041; p < 0.05). Our study found no significant correlation between other prognostic factors, such as histological grade, Ki-67
indices, and ADC values.

Conclusion::

Our study found a significant difference between tumor volume, ER- and, PR status, HER2, and lymph node involvement, and some ADC values
among prognostic factors for breast cancer. Furthermore, ADC histogram analysis can provide additional value in predicting some prognostic
factors.
Bibliometric Review of Optimization and Image Processing of Positron Emission
Tomography (PET) Imaging System between 1981-2022
Authors: Murat Husain , Awang Kechik Mohd Mustafa , Chew Ming Tsuey , Kamal Izdihar , Abdul Karim Muhammad Khalis
Published: April 2024

Background::

PET scan stands as a valuable diagnostic tool in nuclear medicine, enabling the observation of metabolic and physiological changes at a molecular
level. However, PET scans have a number of drawbacks, such as poor spatial resolution, noisy images, scattered radiation, artifacts, and radiation
exposure. These challenges demonstrate the need for optimization in image processing techniques.

Objectives::

Our objective is to identify the evolving trends and impacts of publication in this field, as well as the most productive and influential countries,
institutions, authors, themes, and articles.

Methods::

A bibliometric study was conducted using a comprehensive query string such as “positron emission tomography” AND “image processing” AND
optimization to retrieve 1,783 publications from 1981 to 2022 found in the Scopus database related to this field of study.

Results::

The findings revealed that the most influential country, institution, and authors are from the USA, and the most prevalent theme is TOF PET image
reconstruction

Conclusion::

The increasing trend in publication in the field of optimization of image processing in PET scans would address the challenges in PET scan by
reducing radiation exposure, faster scanning speed, as well as enhancing lesion identification.
Colour Doppler Sonography of the Ovarian Vein: Recognition and Associated
Lesions
Authors: Su Chen , Wang Tiezheng , Qi Hengtao
Published: April 2024

Aim::

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of colour Doppler sonography for ovarian veins. The clinical incidence of ovarian
venous lesions is relatively low and often overlooked. The ovarian veins are located deep in the pelvis, and they are relatively elongated, which
could make medical imaging more difficult. Therefore, there is limited literature on the diagnosis of ovarian venous disease. The purpose of this
study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of colour Doppler sonography towards ovarian vein.

Methods::

A total of 37 consecutive patients with clinically suspected ovarian venous disorders were included. All the patients underwent colour Doppler
sonography. CTV was performed in 31 patients, while retrograde phlebography was performed in 6 patients. CT/phlebography was the established
diagnostic criterion for ovarian vein disorders. The SPSS 22.0 program was used for statistical analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and
negative predictive values for colour Doppler sonography were calculated. k-test was used to evaluate consistency between colour Doppler
sonography and CT/phlebography.

Results::

In the 37 patients,18 cases were positive for ovarian vein disorders and 19 cases were negative, as assessed with colour Doppler sonography. The
associated lesions included ovarian vein thrombosis (7 cases), ovarian varicocele (3 cases), and ovarian venous leiomyoma (8 cases). The
calculated values of sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value were 94.4%, 94.7%, 94.4%, and 94.7%, respectively. The
overall accuracy rate was 94.9%. The k level of the degree of agreement between CT/phlebography and colour Doppler sonography was 0.892.

method:

A total of 37 consecutive patients with clinically suspected ovarian venous disorders were included. All the patients underwent colour Doppler sonography. CTV was performed in 31 patients, while retrograde phlebography was performed in 6 patients. CT/phlebography was the established diagnostic criterion for ovarian vein disorders. The SPSS 22.0 program was used for statistical analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for colour Doppler sonography were calculated. k-test was used to evaluate consistency between colour Doppler sonography and CT/phlebography.

Conclusion::

Colour doppler sonography can provide sufficient imaging information. In clinical ultrasonography, attention should be paid to recognizing and
detecting ovarian venous lesions.
Therapeutic Potential, Pharmacological Activities and Analytical Aspects of Liriodendrin in Medicine: Novel and Potential Therapy Options for the Treatment of Human Disorders and Associated Complications
Authors: Patel Kanika , Patel Dinesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Natural products and their derived secondary metabolites play an important role in
medicine and other allied health sectors. Liriodendrin is one of the main lignans of Boerhaavia
diffusa roots. Liriodendrin is a lignin class phytochemical having numerous health beneficial
properties in medicine, including anti-myocardial ischemia, anti-arrhythmic, anti-oxidant and anti-
inflammatory potential. This present review aims to analyze the reported ethnomedicinal properties,
pharmacological activities and analytical aspects of liriodendrin and identify the remaining
gaps in medicinal fields for their future investigations. The pharmacological properties of liriodendrin
have been described in the present paper in order to describe its better utilization in natural
medicine in the future. Biological poptential and pharmacological activities of liriodendrin
have been described in the present work with their analytical development in the scientific fields.
In the present work, scientific data on liriodendrin were collected from different scientific databases
such as PubMed, Springer, Google, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. They described
their biological potential on the basis of the available scientific literature. Further, research and review
articles from peer-reviewed journals were also searched during data collection. The present
paper's scientific data signified the biological importance of liriodendrin in medicine, which has
been isolated from Boerhaavia diffusa and other medicinal plants. Liriodendrin has biological potential
against myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, lung injury, hepatic injury, inflammatory disorders,
ulcerative colitis, gastric injury, SARS-CoV-2 protease and intestinal inflammation. Further, its effectiveness
in medicine was also due to its anti-convulsant activity, nitric oxide inhibitory potential,
cytotoxicity, cytoprotective nature, anti-oxidant, and anti-microbial potential. The present paper's
scientific data also described the metabolism and analytical development for their isolation, separation
and identification in different samples. Detailed pharmacological activities of liriodendrin have
been described here in the present work and highlighted its important pharmacological properties
and analytical aspects. Liriodendrin is a valuable phytochemical of Boerhaavia diffusa, which has
numerous biological applications in medicine. Further, this study can also validate the traditional
and ethnobotanical use of the Boerhaavia diffusa and other plant material, which contain a significant
amount of liriodendrin as an active phytochemical. Liriodendrin have huge biological potential
far beyond its traditional uses in human complications.
Applicability of QbD-assisted Analytical Method for Simultaneous Detection
of Tetrahydrocurcumin and Folic Acid in Developed Nanostructured Lipid
Carriers
Authors: Kumari Parina , Beg Sarwar , Singh Kamalinder K. , Kakkar Vandita
Published: April 2024

Aims:

Applicability of QbD-assisted analytical method for simultaneous detection of tetrahydrocurcumin
and folic acid in developed nanostructured.

Background:

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a multifactorial disorder that involves chronic inflammation,
oxidative stress and neuropathy. Current treatment therapies involving the use of growth factors
and skin substitutes being costly, are out of reach for the majority of patients. The present research
explored the usefulness of (5929IN008, application number 202211045937), a combination of tetrahydrocurcumin
and folic acid-loaded nanostructured lipidic carriers.

Objectives:

To develop and validate a QbD-assisted method for simultaneous analysis of tetrahydrocurcumin
(THC) and folic acid (FA). Applicability of the above method to determine total drug content
(TDC) and entrapment efficiency (EE) of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded THC and
FA.

Methods:

A high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method was developed, optimized
and validated using Box-Behnken design for improved method performance. Chromatographic separation
was conducted on a Supelco 250 x 4.6 mm (5 μm) column with optimized mobile phase composition
containing tetrahydrofuran: citric acid buffer pH 3.5 (50:50) at a flow rate of 0.4 mL.min-1
and diode array detection between 210 and 360 nm.

Results:

The method developed in a concentration range of 1 to 100 μg.mL-1 was found to be linear
(R2 0.999, p≤0.001), accurate (99.10-101.70%) and precise with high recovery values in intra and
inter-day results. The system adaptability and robustness evaluation revealed that the percent recovery
ranged from 96.90 to 102.80%, and the percent relative standard deviation (%RSD) values were
less than 2%. Moreover, the method was further applied for the determination of TDC (86±6% and
96±8%) and drug EE (81±21% and 73±13%) for THC and FA, respectively.

Conclusion:

The investigation indicated the applicability of the developed and validated method for
the estimation of THC and FA in the developed nanostructured lipidic carriers.
Antioxidant Properties of Resveratrol in the Brain Tissues of Rats after Radiotherapy
Authors: Ghavipanjeh Gholamreza , Ardjmand Abolfazl , Farzin Mohammad Amin , Alani Behrang , Aliasgharzadeh Akbar , Kheiripour Nejat , Farhood Bagher , Taeb Shahram , Najafi Masoud
Published: April 2024

Background:

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of herbal products
as complementary or alternative therapies for cancer patients. RVT has been extensively studied for
its potential role in managing oxidative stress in cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Methods:

In this study, the radioprotective effects of Resveratrol (RVT) (200 mg/kg) were evaluated
in the brain tissues of rats after Radiation Therapy (RT). 20 male adult Wistar rats weighing 180–200
g were used. The animals were exposed to single-fraction Irradiation (IR) (15 Gy) using a linear
accelerator unit (Siemens Primus) at a dosage rate of 200 cGy/min at a distance of 100 cm from the
source to the axis.

Results:

The results of the study showed that compared to the IR group, administration of RVT decreased
the levels of MDA and NOx, and increased the levels of CAT and SOD significantly (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

Finally, our finding suggests that RVT could have radioprotective effects on the brain
by enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms.
The Potential of Traditional Medicine in Combating COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Amin Tasbir , Hossain Amana , Jerin Nusrat , Bin Mannan Shahnewaj , Akter Noor Jahan , Hossain Murad , Ahmed Monir Uddin , Sultana Jinath , Bulbul Nayeema , Safa Ashrafus , Asaduzzaman Md. , Fakruddin Md.
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to review the existing data on traditional medicine in
reducing the symptoms of COVID-19 patients with mild, moderate, and severe symptoms. We also
investigated the adverse impact, patient outcome, source, and mode of action of traditional medicine.
A brief comparison was made on adverse impacts and symptom alleviation of the commercially
available drugs as well.

Methods:

We utilized PubMed, Scopus, WHO (GHL), and VHL in order to choose the eligible studies
for the systematic review between July and August 2022. From a total of 12,263 studies, after a
series of screening, 285 articles were identified in the final sample. The methodological evaluation
was carried out accordingly.

Results:

There is a growing literature on the usage of traditional medicine for COVID-19. The majority
of the studies have shown positive outcomes even though they were not carried out at diverse
locations around the world. We identified that the majority (17.4%) of the traditional medicine was
derived from plants. The average time in the disappearance of the symptoms was 8.8 days, whereas
the disappearance of symptoms using conventional drugs (Remdesevir, Ivermectin, Tocilizumab,
Baricitinib, Famotidine, Ensitrelvir and Molnupiravir) was around 12 days. The mode of action of
traditional medicine was mostly the reduction of viral load (50%). In terms of the severity of the
patients, most of the patients (37.5%) had mild symptoms. We also found that no major adverse impact
was reported on administering the traditional medicine among the patients. Further, the majority
of the study was carried out in the Asian region, mostly in China.

Conclusion:

Apart from expanding the study to different regions of the world, to improve the quality
of data, larger-scale clinical studies in the Asian region are required.
Model of a Prototype Expert System for the Formation of a Simple Classifier of Competencies
Authors: Brezhnev A. V. , Dorozhkin S. D. , Tivikov P. S.
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the research is to describe the process of creating an expert system that compares competency models and professional standards with the current needs of the labor market.Methods are based on an analysis of the principles of developing competencies and include a systematic analysis of labor market requirements, the use of methods for comparative analysis of graduates’ competencies and the needs of employers using statistical data. Тhe research is aimed at solving the fundamental problem of matching the skills of specialists with the needs of the labor market. Аs part of this work, an extensive search of data sources was carried out, including an analysis of graduate employment reports and requirements for specialists, during which a discrepancy between the competencies of graduates and the needs of employers was identified.

Results. Аs a result of the research, a unified database was created containing information about universities, their areas, competencies and graduates, as well as requirements for the future expert system were formulated, its architecture was developed, and a model for representing knowledge about compliance was described. Тhis system will be able to provide recommendations for improving competencies based on a comparison of labor market requirements.

Conclusion. Тhe expert system created on the basis of this work provides operational capabilities for solving issues of matching supply and demand in the labor market, will increase the effectiveness of training, and will help meet the needs of employers for experienced specialists. Тhis concept has several positive aspects, such as increasing the efficiency of training, reducing time resources, publicity and accessibility. Such a system will increase the competitiveness of applicants, as well as satisfy organizations in need of experienced specialists.
Global Rate of Willingness to Volunteer Among Medical and Health Students During Pandemic: Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Mahsusi Mahsusi , Hudaa Syihaabul , Nuryani Nuryani , Fahmi Mustofa , Tsurayya Ghina , Iqhrammullah Muhammad
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

During health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, shortages of health care workers often occur. Recruiting students as volunteers could be an option, but it is uncertain whether the idea is well-accepted.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to estimate the global rate of willingness to volunteer among medical and health students in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies reporting the number of health students willing to volunteer during COVID-19 from 2019 to November 17, 2023. The meta-analysis was performed using a restricted maximum-likelihood model with logit transformation.

RESULTS

A total of 21 studies involving 26,056 health students were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate of the willingness-to-volunteer rate among health students across multiple countries was 66.13%, with an I2 of 98.99% and P value of heterogeneity (P-Het)<.001. Removing a study with the highest influence led to the rate being 64.34%. Our stratified analyses indicated that those with older age, being first-year students, and being female were more willing to volunteer (P<.001). From highest to lowest, the rates were 77.38%, 77.03%, 65.48%, 64.11%, 62.71%, and 55.23% in Africa, Western Europe, East and Southeast Asia, Middle East, and Eastern Europe, respectively. Because of the high heterogeneity, the evidence from this study has moderate strength.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of students are willing to volunteer during COVID-19, suggesting that volunteer recruitment is well-accepted.
A discussion with ChatGPT regarding the use of home remedies to treat acne vulgaris (Preprint)
Authors: Lebhar Jamie , Lebhar Michael , Flynn Michael Seth , Coates Margaret
Published: April 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

This study investigates the appropriateness of ChatGPT 4 in discussing home remedy acne treatments.
Advancing Paraphasia Detection with End-to-End Learning: A Comparative Approach Study (Preprint)
Authors: Perez Matthew , Le Duc , Romana Amrit , Jones Elise , Licata Keli , Provost Emily Mower
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Paraphasias are speech errors that are often characteristic of aphasia and they represent an important signal in assessing disease severity and subtype. Traditionally, clinicians manually identify paraphasias by transcribing and analyzing speech-language samples, which can be a time-consuming and burdensome process. Automatic paraphasia detection can greatly help clinicians with the transcription process and ultimately facilitate more efficient and consistent aphasia assessment.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates a novel machine learning framework for automatic paraphasia detection that is trained end-to-end (i.e., a unified network that takes speech audio as input and outputs text that indicates what was said and identifies which words are paraphasias). We use the AphasiaBank corpus, which contains audio data collected from persons with aphasia (PWAs) that has been transcribed and labeled with paraphasias by trained speech-language pathologists.

METHODS

We propose a novel sequence-to-sequence (seq2seq) architecture for performing both automatic speech recognition (ASR) and paraphasia detection tasks. We explore the impact of leveraging pretrained speech models as well as different learning objectives for optimizing this model. This approach can be advantageous in learning synergistic representations that benefit both ASR and paraphasia detection tasks. We compare against a previous state-of-the art method that uses a multi-step pipeline approach consisting of ASR, hand-engineered feature extraction, and paraphasia detection.

RESULTS

We show that the proposed seq2seq is able to outperform the multi-step pipeline approach for word-level and utterance-level paraphasia detection. We achieve word-level performance improvements of 16.9%, 36.4%, and 9.5% and utterance-level improvements of 5.2%, 13.9%, 18.9% for phonemic, neologistic, and phonemic+neologistic paraphasias, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the performance improvements of learning to detect paraphasias end-to-end rather than through a multi-step pipeline approach with separate ASR and paraphasia detection models. The advantage of learning both ASR and paraphasia detection tasks end-to-end is that this unified model can learn joint representations that are beneficial to both ASR and paraphasia detection tasks rather than optimizing both of these separately. Future work will explore the efficacy of a deployed paraphasia detection model at assisting medical professionals with annotation.
Interventions to digital addiction: An umbrella review of meta-analyses (Preprint)
Authors: Lu Peng , Qiu Jiamin , Huang Shiqi , Wang Xinman , Zhu Sui , Zeng Fangfang , Yuan Yuan
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have explored interventions to reduce digital addiction outcomes, but inconclusive evidence makes it difficult for decision-makers, managers, and clinicians to get familiar with all available literature and find appropriate interventions.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize and assess the certainty of evidence of interventions proposed to decrease the digital addiction from published systematic reviews.

METHODS

An umbrella review of published systematic reviews was undertaken. Included studies were systematic reviews and meta-analyses of quantitative primary studies assessing an intervention that aimed to reduce digital addiction.

RESULTS

studies assessing 21 associations were included in the umbrella review, of which 4 (80%) were high-quality systematic reviews. Weak evidence was observed in 19 associations, whereas null associations appeared in the rest 2 associations. These associations pertained to nine interventions (group counseling, intergrated internet addiction prevention program, psychosocial intervention, reality therapy, self-control training program, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), interventions to reduce screen time in child and exercise) and ten outcomes (self-control, self-esteem, IGD symptoms, time spent gaming, IA scores, screen use time, interpersonal sensitivity longlines, anxiety and depression). CBT could reduce anxiety (0.939, 95% CI, 0.311 to 1.586), IGD symptoms (1.394, 95% CI, 0.664 to 2.214) and time spent gaming 1.259, 95% CI, 0.311 to 2.206) and IA scores (-2.097, 95% CI, -2.814 to -1.381). Group counseling had a large effect size on improving self-control (1.296, 95% CI, 0.269 to 2.322) and reduced internet addiction levels (-1.147, 95% CI, -1.836 to -0.997). Exercise intervention reduced IA scores (-2.322, 95% CI, -3.212 to -1.431) and depression (-1.421, 95% CI, -2.046 to -797) and interpersonal sensitivity (-1.433, 95% CI, -2.239 to -0.627).

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence indicates that current interventions to reduce digital addiction are weak. Data from more and better-designed studies with larger sample sizes are needed to establish robust evidence.
Wearables and Smartphones for Tracking Modifiable Risk Factors in Metabolic Health: Protocol for a Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Brügger Victoria , Kowatsch Tobias , Jovanova Mia
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Metabolic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, contribute significantly to global mortality and disability. Wearable devices and smartphones are increasingly used to track and manage modifiable risk factors associated with metabolic diseases. However, no established guidelines exist on how to derive meaningful signals from these devices, often hampering cross-study comparisons.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to systematically overview the current empirical literature on how wearables and smartphones are used to track modifiable (physiological and lifestyle) risk factors associated with metabolic diseases.

METHODS

We will conduct a scoping review to overview how wearable and smartphone-based studies measure modifiable risk factors related to metabolic diseases. We will search 5 databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and SPORTDiscus) from 2019 to 2024, with search terms related to wearables, smartphones, and modifiable risk factors associated with metabolic diseases. Eligible studies will use smartphones or wearables (worn on the wrist, finger, arm, hip, and chest) to track physiological or lifestyle factors related to metabolic diseases. We will follow the reporting guideline standards from PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) and the JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute) guidance on scoping review methodology. Two reviewers will independently screen articles for inclusion and extract data using a standardized form. The findings will be synthesized and reported qualitatively and quantitatively.

RESULTS

Data collection is expected to begin in November 2024; data analysis in the first quarter of 2025; and submission to a peer-reviewed journal by the second quarter of 2025. We expect to identify the degree to which wearable and smartphone-based studies track modifiable risk factors collectively (versus in isolation), and the consistency and variation in how modifiable risk factors are measured across existing studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Results are expected to inform more standardized guidelines on wearable and smartphone-based measurements, with the goal of aiding cross-study comparison. The final report is planned for submission to a peer-reviewed, indexed journal. This review is among the first to systematically overview the current landscape on how wearables and smartphones measure modifiable risk factors associated with metabolic diseases.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/59539
Language in displacement: The word-image in the poetry of Marília Garcia
Authors: Lares Leandro Marinho , , Portolomeos Andréa
Published: April 2024

This article studies the interactions between poetic language and cinematographic language in the poetry of Marília Garcia. Taking into account the research of Rosa Maria Martelo (2007, 2012), this work explores dialogs between poetry and cinema to analyze the poem “estereofonia” (stereophonia) in the book Camera Lenta (Slow Motion). In addition, the article positions the poem closer to the cinema of poetry, a cinematographic genre described by Pier Paolo Pasolini (1982). Ultimatley, it concludes that cinematographic syntax organizes the word-images of Marília Garcia’s poetics.
Evaluación multimodal en la enseñanza de la química
Authors: Glock Maceno Nicole , Giordan Marcelo
Published: April 2024

Este ensayo presenta una reflexión teórica sobre la evaluación para el aprendizaje en química que incorpora múltiples modos semióticos. A través de la teoría de la acción mediada (Wertsch, 1998; Vigotski, 2001), se destaca el despliegue de medios mediacionales y la combinación semiótica en las comprensiones de la evaluación. También se abordan los posibles problemas de las evaluaciones que sólo consideran la semiótica escrita en el ámbito disciplinar químico. Se hace referencia a las aportaciones de la evaluación multimodal en la creación de contextos y actividades significativas para la enseñanza de la química. Se presenta una propuesta de clasificación de los modos semióticos de evaluación considerando las formas de representación y comunicación de la química. Por último, se propone una reflexión teórica de la relación entre la evaluación y los modos semióticos para la incorporación de otras semióticas en el proceso de interpretación de la elaboración de significados.
Gamificación para química analítica: un cuarto de escape digital
Authors: López Santiago Norma Ruth
Published: April 2024

En este trabajo se aplicó como estrategia didáctica gamificada un Cuarto de escape digital, con el propósito de activar la metacognición de los conocimientos teóricos y metodológicos construidos en las materias química analítica, y que son necesarios para la construcción de conocimiento del desarrollo y validación de métodos analíticos. El Cuarto de escape se nombró La Máquina del tiempo, se compone de cinco épocas del pasado, cada una con diferentes ítems sobre el tema correspondiente: I. Material de laboratorio, II. Buenas prácticas de laboratorio, III. Técnicas analíticas, IV. Química Analítica, V. Curvas de calibración. Para avanzar en cada época se deben contestar correctamente todas las preguntas de cada sección para obtener al final uno de los dígitos que componen la clave secreta para desbloquear el Futuro. La actividad fue evaluada por los estudiantes a través de una encuesta mixta (tipo Likert y preguntas abiertas). La mayoría indicó que la actividad y les permitió recordar lo que sabían o habían visto en cursos anteriores, es decir si activó su metacognición, lo cual se confirma con el hecho de que todos los estudiantes lograron obtener la clave para desbloquear el Futuro, y lo hicieron de forma divertida. Los seres humanos nos encontramos intrínsecamente motivados cuando tenemos interés, curiosidad y encontramos un cierto gusto en aprender, así el Cuarto de escape fue una estrategia de aprendizaje que favorece la motivación y promueve un mayor compromiso de los educandos con el aprendizaje de esta forma, se procura el aprovechamiento de contenidos, involucrando de forma directa la participación del alumnado.
El escape room se nombró La Máquina del tiempo, se compone de cinco épocas del pasado, cada una con diferentes ítems sobre el tema correspondiente: I. Material de laboratorio, II. Buenas prácticas de laboratorio, III. Técnicas analíticas, IV. Química Analítica, V. Curvas de calibración. Para avanzar en cada época se deben contestar correctamente todas las preguntas de cada sección para obtener al final uno de los dígitos que componen la clave secreta para desbloquear el Futuro.
La actividad fue evaluada por los estudiantes a través de una encuesta mixta (tipo Likert y preguntas abiertas). La mayoría de los estudiantes indicó que el escape room les permitió recordar lo que sabían o habían visto en curso anteriores, es decir si activó su metacognición, lo cual se confirma con el hecho de que todos los estudiantes lograron obtener la clave para desbloquear el Futuro, y lo hicieron de forma divertida. Los seres humanos nos encontramos intrínsecamente motivados cuando tenemos interés, curiosidad y encontramos un cierto gusto en aprender, así el escape room fue una estrategia de aprendizaje que favorece la motivación y promueve un mayor compromiso de los educandos con el aprendizaje de esta forma, se procura el aprovechamiento de contenidos, involucrando de forma directa la participación del alumnado.
A Mobile Application for Crop Optmisation using Satellite Imagery and Disease Detection using AI
Authors: Zuturu Arun Adithya
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Despite being crucial to the world's food supply, small-scale farmers do not have access to resources or contemporary technologies. This makes it more difficult to make educated decisions, which lowers yields and causes financial hardship. To help farmers overcome this obstacle, our research uses satellite data to provide them with useful insights that will enable them to increase production and make wise decisions.
Development of e-pocket book learning media on environmental pollution based on environmental issues in Cirebon region
Authors: Lesmanawati Ina Rosdiana , Nada Shofwatun , Nur'aisyah Siti
Published: April 2024

In the Cirebon region, there are several environmental issues exists, one of the problems is pollution. In the context of modern information technology, there's a growing preference for electronic-based educational materials. This study aims to evaluate the environmental pollution levels in Cirebon and develop a e-pocket book as a biology learning resource for high school students. The research follows the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) and utilizes observations, questionnaires, and documentation for data collection. The environmental assessment was conducted in Cirebon city and regency, and the learning media developed at MAN 2 Cirebon City. Results from the Environmental Quality Index (IKLH) indicate moderate pollution levels in Kejaksan District and mild-moderate levels in Talun District. The e-book was created using the Canva application and finalized into a link format compatible with laptops and Android smartphones. It underwent validation by material experts, media experts, biology educators, and student users, receiving favorable feedback with an overall rating of 87.24% deemed very satisfactory. It can be concluded that the development of this e-book on environmental pollution can be used as a learning media.
The Effect of Honey on Bacteria Isolated from Urinary Tract Infections among Patients Attending Ruhengeri Referral Hospital
Authors: Alain Prudence Ishimwe , Pierre Celestin Munezero , Hiberte Migabo , Josue Itangimbabazi , Eric Saramba
Published: April 2024

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urethra from the skin or rectum and infect the bladder, causing symptoms. UTIs are becoming increasingly multidrug-resistant, with some drugs no longer effective in treatment. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), honey has been shown to have high osmotic pressure and high acidity that prevent the multiplication of bacteria. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of honey on bacteria isolated from urine samples collected from patients with UTI’s attending Ruhengeri Referral Hospital.

Methodology: Urine samples were collected in sterile containers at Ruhengeri Referral Hospital and transported to the microbiology laboratory at the Ruhengeri Institute of Higher Education (INES Ruhengeri). Two types of honey, raw and processed were used as antimicrobial agents on bacteria isolated from UTIs. Various methods were used to isolate and identify bacterial isolates, including culture on solid medium, gram staining, and biochemical tests.

Results: The most commonly isolated bacterium was S. aureus (33.3%) which is in the second group of bacteria susceptible to honey, followed by P. aeruginosa (13.8%) and CoNS (13.8%). E. coli, K. pneumonia, and Streptococcus spp. each accounted for 11.2%. The former and the latter were the most susceptible bacteria to natural honey honey (mIZ = 36 ±2.83; ±4.24 mm, respectively), while E. aerogenes was the least isolated bacterium at 5.5% and the least susceptible to honey.

Conclusion: Honey was showed to exhibit an antimicrobial effect against all bacteria isolated from the UTI, suggesting natural honey as a remedy in controlling urinary tract bacterial infection. Further studies are needed to evaluate its capacity compared to classical antibiotics currently used to treat bacteria in UTIs. The practical way to use honey to get targeted area is also an interested point that need to be investigated.

Keywords: Urinary tract infection; honey; bacteria.