bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deriving Weight From Big Data: Comparison of Body Weight Measurement–Cleaning Algorithms (Preprint)
Authors: Evans Richard , Burns Jennifer , Damschroder Laura , Annis Ann , Freitag Michelle B , Raffa Susan , Wiitala Wyndy
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Patient body weight is a frequently used measure in biomedical studies, yet there are no standard methods for processing and cleaning weight data. Conflicting documentation on constructing body weight measurements presents challenges for research and program evaluation.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aim to describe and compare methods for extracting and cleaning weight data from electronic health record databases to develop guidelines for standardized approaches that promote reproducibility.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of studies published from 2008 to 2018 that used Veterans Health Administration electronic health record weight data and documented the algorithms for constructing patient weight. We applied these algorithms to a cohort of veterans with at least one primary care visit in 2016. The resulting weight measures were compared at the patient and site levels.

RESULTS

We identified 496 studies and included 62 (12.5%) that used weight as an outcome. Approximately 48% (27/62) included a replicable algorithm. Algorithms varied from cutoffs of implausible weights to complex models using measures within patients over time. We found differences in the number of weight values after applying the algorithms (71,961/1,175,995, 6.12% to 1,175,177/1,175,995, 99.93% of raw data) but little difference in average weights across methods (93.3, SD 21.0 kg to 94.8, SD 21.8 kg). The percentage of patients with at least 5% weight loss over 1 year ranged from 9.37% (4933/52,642) to 13.99% (3355/23,987).

CONCLUSIONS

Contrasting algorithms provide similar results and, in some cases, the results are not different from using raw, unprocessed data despite algorithm complexity. Studies using point estimates of weight may benefit from a simple cleaning rule based on cutoffs of implausible values; however, research questions involving weight trajectories and other, more complex scenarios may benefit from a more nuanced algorithm that considers all available weight data.
Classification Framework for Healthy Hairs and Alopecia Areata using Machine Learning (Preprint)
Authors: Shakeel Choudhary Sobhan , Khan Saad Jawaid , Aijaz Syeda Fatima , Hassan Umer , Chaudhry Beenish
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Alopecia areata is an auto-immune disorder that involves non-scarring hair loss in well-defined patches as well as affecting the entire scalp region and ultimately leads to baldness. The latest worldwide statistics have exhibited that Alopecia areata affects millions of people. Furthermore, the use of conventional methods often leads to poor diagnosis of Alopecia ultimately increasing the medical financial burden on the population. It has been reported that 85% of the individuals suffering from Alopecia areata complain about significant financial burden along with associated costs that are beyond cosmetic concerns. Many individuals adhere to treatment discontinuation owing to enhanced expenses and poor diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of the study comprise of utilizing datasets of healthy hairs and Alopecia areata, extracting color, texture and shape features from the images and applying machine learning algorithms including support vector machine (SVM) and k-nearest neighbor (KNN).

METHODS

Two datasets with images of healthy hairs and Alopecia areata have been utilized. A total of 200 healthy hair images were retrieved from Figaro1k dataset. A total of 68 images of Alopecia areata were retrieved from a dataset known as Dermnet. The images initially go through pre-processing steps including enhancement and segmentation. Following image segmentation, three features of color, texture and shape are extracted. Following feature extraction, machine learning algorithms including support vector machine (SVM) and k-nearest neighbor (KNN) are applied that aid in classifying Alopecia areata and healthy hairs.

RESULTS

A total of 81 images are tested with support vector machine (SVM) and k- nearest neighbor (KNN) yielding an accuracy of 91.4% and 88.9% respectively. The results of the paired sample T-test via SPSS analysis demonstrate a p < 0.001 and exhibits that the accuracies acquired from the two machine learning techniques are significantly different. The accuracies reported will enable a hair expert in recommending a suitable diagnosis and hair treatment regimen to a patient.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of support vector machine (SVM) presented an accuracy of 91.4% and that of k-nearest neighbor (KNN) presented an accuracy of 88.9%. These accuracies exhibit that the proposed classification framework is found to be successful and robust. However, future work with deep learning techniques such as convolutional neural networks (CNN) can be also be carried out and integrated with the existing system.
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Authors: Bogmat L.F. , Nikonova V.V. , Shevchenko N.S. , Bessonova I.M.
Published: May 2021

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Authors: Sorokman T.V. , Moldovan P.M. , Cherneі N.Ya. , Popelyuk N.O.
Published: May 2021

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Authors: Besh L.V. , Matsyura O.I.
Published: May 2021

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Комплаєнс до лікування левотироксином хворих на гіпотиреоз під час пандемічної ери SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Bilgin Satilmis , Meryem Atak Tel Burcin , Taslamacioglu Duman Tuba , Kurtkulagi Ozge , Bakir Kahveci Gizem , Sagdic Tugrul , Aktas Gulali
Published: May 2021

Актуальність. Гіпотиреоз потребує замісної терапії левотироксином (L-T4), щоб підтримувати в пацієнтів стан еутиреозу. Кількість госпіталізацій з приводу хронічних захворювань зменшилась протягом ери COVID-19. Мета дослідження— встановити частоту госпіталізацій пацієнтів з гіпотиреозом під час пандемії COVID-19 порівняно з аналогічним періодом часу в 2019 році. Матеріали та методи. Дослідження було проведене серед пацієнтів, які звернулись у відділення внутрішньої медицини університетської лікарні Abant Izzet Baysal та отримували замісну терапію L-T4 внаслідок гіпотиреозу. 108 пацієнтів з гіпотиреозом були включені в дослідження, підписавши інформаційну згоду. Пацієнти були розділені на дві групи відповідно до прихильності до лікування: хворі, які відповідали вимогам лікування, і хворі, які не дотримувались режиму лікування. Результати. Рівень тиреотропного гормона (ТТГ) перед включенням у дослідження у групі осіб, які відповідали вимогам лікування, був вірогідно нижчим, ніж у групі хворих, які не дотримувались режиму лікування (p<0,001). При цьому рівень вільного тироксину (вТ4) серед пацієнтів першої групи був вірогідно вищим, ніж в осіб другої групи (p=0,04). Медіана нерегулярного прийому левотироксину становила 35 (10–90) днів у групі осіб, які не відповідали вимогам лікування, і 0 (0–0) днів у групі осіб, які відповідали вимогам лікування (p<0,001). Кількість днів, коли левотироксин використовувався нерегулярно, вірогідно позитивно корелювала з останнім значенням ТТГ (r=0,564, p<0,001) та негативно— з останнім значенням вT4 (r=–0,492, p<0,001). Середній об’єм еритроцитів (MCV) у хворих першої та другої груп становив 85 (69,1–97,5) та 89 (66–96,6) фл відповідно (p=0,03). Ретроспективний характер та порівняно невелика кількість досліджуваних були двома основними обмеженнями проведеного дослідження. Висновки. Дотримання режиму лікування є дуже важливим для досягнення стану еутиреозу в пацієнтів з гіпотиреозом під час пандемії COVID-19. Підвищений рівень MCV може передбачати невідповідність лікування у хворих на гіпотиреоз.
Особливості перебігу діабетичної хвороби нирок у хворих на латентний автоімунний діабет дорослих
Authors: Tsaryk I.O. , Pashkovska N.V.
Published: May 2021

Актуальність. Латентний автоімунний діабет дорослих (LADA) є гетерогенним типом цукрового діабету (ЦД), що поєднує ознаки цукрового діабету 1-го (ЦД1) та 2-го типу (ЦД2). Дані щодо частоти і структури мікросудинних ускладнень при LADA малочисельні й доволі суперечливі, практично відсутня інформація про особливості їх перебігу, що вказує на необхідність проведення досліджень у цьому напрямку. Мета дослідження: з’ясувати особливості перебігу діабетичної хвороби нирок у хворих на латентний автоімунний діабет дорослих порівняно з класичними типами цукрового діабету. Матеріали та методи. Обстежено 112 хворих на ЦД із діабетичною хворобою нирок (ДХН). Пацієнтів розподілили на три групи: І— 54 особи з LADA, ІІ— 30 хворих на ЦД1, ІІІ— 28 пацієнтів із ЦД2. Особливості перебігу ДХН вивчали на підставі оцінки даних анамнезу, клінічного обстеження, значень швидкості клубочкової фільтрації (ШКФ), альбумінурії, відношення альбуміну до креатиніну в сечі. Результати. За даними анамнезу діагноз ДХН у пацієнтів із LADA встановлювався в середньому через 3 роки після маніфестації ЦД, при цьому на 4,5 року раніше, ніж при ЦД1, але на 1,3 року пізніше, ніж при ЦД2. Аналіз показників ШКФ показав, що при LADА найбільш часто (у 63% пацієнтів) реєструвалась категорія G3 (G3а— у 46%, G3b— у 17% пацієнтів). Решта обстежених мали категорію G1 (7%), G2 (24%), і тільки в 6% пацієнтів виявлено стадію G4. У пацієнтів усіх груп переважали категорії альбумінурії А1 та А2 (при LADА— по 43% осіб у кожній категорії), водночас категорія A3 при LADA реєструвалась удвічі частіше, ніж при ЦД1. При LADA переважаючими фенотипами ДХН були неальбумінурійне порушення функції нирок (НАПН) (43%) і альбумінурійний фенотип (АФ) (35%), при ЦД1— АФ (50%) і НАПН (40%), а при ЦД2 усі три фенотипи реєструвалися майже з однаковою частотою (АФ— у 32%, НАПН— у 29% пацієнтів, прогресуюче зниження функції нирок — у 39% хворих). Висновки. Перебіг діабетичної хвороби нирок в осіб із латентним автоімунним діабетом дорослих відрізняється від такого при класичних типах цукрового діабету, що вказує на необхідність розробки специфічного алгоритму ведення цієї категорії пацієнтів.
Діагностична та прогностична цінність гормональних показників, ліпідного спектра таультрасонографічних параметрів міокарда приметаболічному синдромі, ускладненому хронічною ішемічною хворобою серця і цукровим діабетом 2-го типу
Authors: Dutka R.Ya. , Chmyr N.V. , Leontieva Z.R. , Fedechko Y.M.
Published: May 2021

Актуальність. Синтропічна патологія, зумовлена поєднанням метаболічних і гормональних змін, призводить до розвитку ускладнень серцево-судинної патології як безпосередньої причини смертності та зменшення тривалості чи якості життя населення. Щодо ролі гормонів при даній комплексній патології слід зауважити, що не повністю доведена їх патогенетична і клінічна взаємозалежність та кореляція із морфофункціональними параметрами стану міокарда. Методологічні труднощі таких досліджень полягають у потребі аналізувати десятки лабораторно-клінічних показників у багатьох групах порівняння. Мета дослідження: встановити діагностичні маркери при метаболічному синдромі, а також їх взаємозалежність порівняно із синтропічною патологією, представленою хронічною ішемічною хворобою серця (ІХС) та цукровим діабетом (ЦД) 2-го типу. Матеріали та методи. У дослідження залучені 319 пацієнтів, розподілених на 6 груп. Першу групу становили 82 пацієнти з метаболічним синдромом (МС), другу— із МС та ЦД компенсованим (39 осіб), третю— із МС та ЦД декомпенсованим (35 осіб), четверту— 44 особи з МС та появою ІХС, п’яту— 44 хворі на ІХС та ЦД 2-го типу в стані компенсації, що виник на тлі МС, шосту — 75 пацієнтів з ІХС та ЦД 2-го типу в стані декомпенсації на тлі МС. У контрольну групу увійшли 40 практично здорових осіб (чоловіки— 17, жінки— 23). Результати. У жінок віком до 40 років із МС без ЦД 2-го типу при підвищеному рівні пролактину, кортизолу та тиреотропного гормона (ТТГ) діагноз ІХС об’єктивно не підтверджується. При цьому спостерігалися вже початкові зміни ліпідного обміну за рахунок підвищення рівня тригліцеридів та ліпопротеїнів дуже низької щільності. Поява ІХС на фоні МС (лише за умови відсутності ЦД 2-го типу) характеризується наближеними до контролю рівнями пролактину та кортизолу на фоні значного підвищення ТТГ у всіх пацієнтів незалежно від статі. У четвертій групі пацієнтів з ІХС на тлі МС високому значенню суми індексів (∑і) ліпідного спектра відповідає найнижчий показник суми індексів гормонів. Для шостої групи з ІХС у поєднанні з декомпенсованим ЦД 2-го типу характерні найвищі показники ∑і як ліпідного обміну, так і гормонів. При поєднанні МС з ІХС та компенсованим ЦД 2-го типу рівні гормонів та ліпідів не відрізнялися від таких при МС з ІХС без ЦД 2-го типу. При МС, ускладненому декомпенсованим ЦД 2-го типу та ІХС, спостерігались підвищені рівні кортизолу і пролактину, при цьому рівень ТТГ був у нормі. Висновки. Установлено діагностичні маркери (гормональні показники, параметри ліпідного спектра й ультрасонографічні параметри міокарда) при МС, а також виявлено їх взаємозалежність порівняно із синтропічною патологією, представленою ІХС та ЦД 2-го типу.
Епідеміологія автоімунного тиреоїдиту
Authors: Кravchenko V.I. , Тоvkay О.А. , Rakov О.V. , Тronko М.D.
Published: May 2021

Наведений огляд літератури з питання епідеміології автоімунного тиреоїдиту (АІТ). В огляді розглянуті етіологічні чинники автоімунного ураження щитоподібної залози (ЩЗ). У виникненні ушкодження клітин ЩЗ важливе значення надається утворенню антитіл та лімфоїдній інфільтрації залози. Відзначено, що генетичні фактори передують виникненню патологічних змін. Втрата імунної толерантності до автоантигенів ЩЗ— тиреоїдної пероксидази (TПO), тиреоглобуліну (TГ) є основою для розвитку АІТ. Зазначена важлива роль оксидативного стресу і реактивних форм кисню в патогенезі захворювання. Показано, що на своєму початку АІТ перебігає безсимптомно, утворення антитіл до ТПО і ТГ передує виникненню захворювання і може свідчити про латентний АІТ. Поширеність латентного АІТ відрізняється в різних країнах світу і сягає від 2 до 20%, причому серед жінок вона була в 4–6 разів вища, ніж у чоловіків. Згодом латентний АІТ переходить у субклінічний та явний тиреоїдит із гіпотиреозом. Захворюваність на маніфестний АІТ у різних країнах становить від 27 до 273 на 100 000 населення. Нерідко захворювання розпочиналося в дитячому та підлітковому віці. Частота патології, включаючи латентний субклінічний та маніфестний АІТ, у цієї когорти населення, за даними різних авторів, сягає від 0,3 до 9,6%. Вагітність також супроводжується наявністю антитіл до ТПО, але зі зменшеною агресією клітинних елементів й антитіл до ЩЗ. Післяпологовий період характеризується загостренням захворювання. В Україні захворюваність населення на АІТ становить 43,1 на 100 000, поширеність майже в 10разів вища— 421,2 на 100 000. Зроблено висновок, що АІТ є найбільш поширеним органоспецифічним автоімунним захворюванням.
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Authors: Sirchak Ye.S. , Barani V.Ye. , Petrichko O.I. , Reho O.Yu.
Published: May 2021

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Implementation of Asynchronous Educational Modules to Improve Student Understanding of Statistical Analysis in STEM Undergraduate Courses
Authors: Barber Sophia , Ibargüen Sophia , Sharp Chloe , Teng Janet , Kim Daisy , Luu Richard , Ashcroft Jared , Chang-Hou Yu-Chung
Published: May 2021

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many undergraduate students have been given no other option but to take their classes remotely. This has provided many challenges for both students and instructors, especially in the STEM field due to the required laboratory coursework. For this reason, alternative methods of distance learning are needed to optimize student laboratory experiences. The sudden transition to a remote format and adjusting to a new learning environment has proven to be difficult for both students and faculty. It has also been established throughout the pandemic that students perform substantially worse in on-line coursework compared with traditional, in-person classes. Students in a general chemistry course were introduced to innovative asynchronous lab modules that could be performed at home with the additional opportunity of conducting statistical analysis tests. These modules utilize discussion boards, graphing assessments, and labs to teach students how to perform different statistical tests and to familiarize students with the DataClassroom, Google Sheets, and Microsoft Excel platforms. This asynchronous learning format will promote both overall student engagement in STEM courses and student understanding of statistical analysis, thus exhibiting the potential to implement these modules in future undergraduate STEM coursework.
EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF CITRULLUS LANATUS PULP ON SCOPOLAMINE INDUCED COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION IN SWISS ALBINO MICE
Authors: N DIVYA
Published: May 2021

Objective: Amnesia is a medical condition involving the loss of memory. The memory loss is attributed to a number of illnesses or factors including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and dementia, amnesia is often caused by head injury, brain trauma, or brain surgery. The incidence of amnesia affects only a small percent of the world’s population, the relevant study is becoming increasingly important with the rising numbers of people with AD. Alzheimer’s is predicted to strike 34 million people globally by 2025 and 14 million within the U.S. alone over subsequent 40 years.

Methods: The study the possible protective effect of aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus pulp (ACL) using scopolamine-induced amnesia in Swiss Albino mice. The mice were divided randomly into six groups each of five mice (n=5). Groups IV, V, and VI received mice feed and ACL 25%, 50%, and 100% instead of water for 21 days. Mice of Groups I, II, and III were treated with mice feed and water ad libitum. The animals were subjected to a single dose of scopolamine (1 mg/kg b.wt. ip) except in Group I on the 21st day 60 min after respective drug administration and observed for the effects in brain activity for the learning and memory. The behavioral parameters such as passive avoidance, Morris water maze, Y-Maze, and elevated plus maze were used as a tool for cognitive dysfunction study.

Results: The ACL significantly reversed the scopolamine induced amnesia in mice. This is evident as C. lanatus is rich in lycopene content. The experimental models demonstrated that all the concentration of ACL treated mice showed remarkable results in restoring the effect of amnesia induced by scopolamine.

Conclusion: To concise, these results suggest that ACL may exhibit protective effect on the brain to reverse the scopolamine induced amnesia. Further, it can be explored extracting the lycopene content of watermelon.
DO INDONESIAN GOVERNMENT DEPLOY RELIABLE AMMUNITION FOR COVID-19 MASS TEST? A COMPARISON OF REAL-TIME PCR KITS
Authors: MARISSA NELLY , SALMIATY  , HANUM SARI , FEBRIANSYAH EVAN , RAMADHAN NUR , YULIDAR  , HADIFAH ZAIN , PRANATA AGUNG
Published: May 2021

Objective: This study aimed to compare the level of reliability of three commercial real-time PCR kits in determining clinical samples.

Methods: A total of 40 swabs samples which were previously tested positive, were re-test using the BioCov-19 RT-PCR kit, Sansure coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) nucleic acid diagnostic kit, and Kogen PowerCheck with Thermocycler (Roche). The amplification procedure is carried out based on the manual for each kit.

Results: Sansure COVID-19 nucleic acid diagnostic was able to detect 40 samples with positive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) results detected in both genes, while the PowerChek™ 2019-nCoV real-time PCR kit able to detect 35 samples showed that SARS-COV-II was detected in both genes, and the BioCoV-19 RT-PCR Kit brand kit able to detect 34 samples showed positive SARS-COV-2 results in both genes.

Conclusion: The three commercial kits show great ability detection, so that they can be used to detect the presence of SARS-COV-II in clinical samples, and also in mass screening.
ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF HYPERTENSIVE CHANGES IN ELDERLY PATIENTS OF ISOLATED SYSTOLIC HYPERTENSION WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO CARDIOVASCULAR COMPLICATIONS
Authors: BEHERA BIJAYA KUMAR , MOHANTY RAKESH , JENA SUKANTA KUMAR , BEHERA SUSANTA SEKHAR
Published: May 2021

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the echocardiographic changes and cardiovascular complications in patients with isolated systolic hypertension (ISH).

Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study done in the Departments of General Medicine, Cardiology, and Radiodiagnosis of MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur, Odisha, India. Seventy patients above the age of 65 years with systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥140 mm Hg and diastolic BP <90 mm Hg, without any secondary causes of hypertension and antihypertensive drug therapy were selected for this study. Echocardiography and electrocardiography studies were implemented for demonstrating the development of cardiovascular complications.

Results: Of 70 cases (41 males and 29 females), 64.3% were asymptomatic and 35.7% were symptomatic, with palpitation being the major symptom, 40% (28 cases) developed retinopathy, 45.71% developed increased left ventricular mass index (p=0.04), 18.57% had increased in LV volume (>90 ml/m2), 30% cases had regional wall motion abnormalities, 27.1% had reduced ejection fraction (<56%), and 52.66% showed LA enlargement in this study (p=0.048). Doppler measurements of diastolic filling were significant in patients with ISH with higher peak atrial velocity (A wave) of 79.71±11.79 cm/s and a lower ratio of peak early to atrial velocity of 0.82±0.29.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that elderly patients with ISH had a prevalence of concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) which was found to be more in female patients than in male patients followed by left atrial enlargement.
DENGUE FEVER: STAGES, COMPLICATION, DIAGNOSIS, AND PREVENTION STRATEGIES
Authors: BISWAS POULOMI , GANGULY SANTOSH , DEBNATH BIPLAB
Published: May 2021

Dengue fever virus (DENV) is said to be a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus that belongs to the family Flaviviridae and the genus is Flavivirus. The disease can be transmitted through infected blood products and also through organ donation. Vertical transmission (from mother to child) at the time of pregnancy or during birth has been reported. Other unusual reports showed man-to-man modes of transmission. Hemorrhagic fever is specified by hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, leakage of blood plasma, or dengue shock syndrome. Dengue is basically transmitted by various species of mosquito among the genus Aedes, the most uniquely identified one is Aedes aegypti. There are four different but very closely related serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4) of the virus that causes Dengue. Lifelong immunity against the particular serotype that has caused the infection is believed to have been imparted upon recovery. However, cross-immunity to the other serotypes is either partial or temporary upon recovery and hence future infections by any of the other serotypes enhance the risk of developing severe dengue. Prevention is identified by reducing the habitat and the number of mosquitoes and also by limiting exposure to bites. Treatment of mild or moderate type is supportive, with oral or intravenous rehydration. The intravenous fluids and blood transfusion for more severe cases are found to be effective. The present study aimed to present brief and informative salient features of various facts regarding dengue, including its global incidence, structure, mode of transmission, clinical signs and symptoms, control, and preventive measures.
COMPARATIVE IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF ETHYL ACETATE AND ETHANOL EXTRACTS OF CALLICARPA MACROPHYLLA
Authors: N SHARMA GANESH , KAUR HARJINDER , SHRIVASTAVA BIRENDRA , CHANDER ARORA SATISH
Published: May 2021

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare the antioxidant activity of (EA and E) ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of (CM) Callicarpa macrophylla.

Methods: The physiochemical parameters were assessed according to guidelines given by the world health organization. The total content of phenols and flavonoids was assessed by Folin–Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods. In vitro, antioxidant activity was screened by (DPPH) 1, 1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl and(H2O2) hydrogen peroxide scavenging and reducing power assay.

Results: The physicochemical parameters fulfilled the standards of WHO guidelines. Total phenol and flavonoid content were more in ethanol extract as compared to ethyl acetate extract of CM. The antioxidant activity of ethanol extract was further high as compared to ethyl acetate extract of Callicarpa macrophylla. The IC50 of Callicarpa macrophylla ethanol extract was less than the ethyl acetate extract. So, more antioxidant activity of ethanol extract compared to ethyl acetate extract of CM.

Conclusion: Overall, both the extracts showed antioxidant activity and can be used further for diseases that can be managed using antioxidants. Ethanol extract possessed significant antioxidant effects than the ethyl acetate extract.
PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND TOXICITY OF STINGLESS BEE PROPOLIS FROM VARIOUS PROVINCES IN INDONESIA
Authors: MAHANI MAHANI , SYIDIK JAFAR , ZAIDA ZAIDA , SULAEMAN AHMAD , HARDINSYAH HARDINSYAH , NURJANAH NUNUNG
Published: May 2021

Objective: The main objectives of the research are to determine the phytochemical content and toxicity of stingless bee propolis from various provinces in Indonesia.

Methods: Phytochemical testing of alkaloids and triterpenoids on propolis used a qualitative method, while for testing phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins using quantitative methods. Then, to test the toxicity of stingless bee propolis using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Test method.

Results: Propolis with the highest alkaloid and triterpenoid content is Central Java propolis from Tetragonula laeviceps species. Then, propolis with the highest total flavonoid content is South Sulawesi propolis of Tetragonula biroi species. Propolis with the highest total tannin content and total phenolic content is South Sulawesi propolis from Geniotrigona incise species. Propolis with the highest toxicity is Banten propolis from T. laeviceps species.

Conclusion: Stingless bee propolis from various provinces in Indonesia contains various phytochemicals and toxicities. Furthermore, there is a strong correlation between total flavonoid content and propolis toxicity.
THE STATE OF ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND STRESS IN HOSPITALIZED PATIENTS WITH CONFIRMED COVID-19 INFECTION
Authors: MITRA SUBHASIS , MITRA DALIA , DUTTA ABHIJIT
Published: May 2021

Objectives: In the past few months, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically invaded the globe with its high infectivity. In this situation, people’s mental health is of utmost importance but poorly reported, especially in patients. We conducted this cross-sectional study among laboratory-confirmed hospitalized patients to evaluate the burden of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms.

Methods: We used depression, anxiety and stress scale 21 (DASS-21) to evaluate respective mental health components. A total of 114 hospitalized patients participated in this study. Of which, 65.79% were male patients.

Results: The reported depression, anxiety, and stress were 77.2%, 84.2%, and 54.4%, respectively. An inverse relationship of the total DASS-21 score was found with the age of the participants.

Conclusion: Such a high prevalence of mental health outcome suggests the need for further evaluation and addressing the problem with immediate concern.
FORMULATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SUSTAINED RELEASE TABLET USING MARDI GUM
Authors: M KUMARE MANGESH , R SHENDARKAR GIRIDHAR
Published: May 2021

Objective: The present research work was to develop and evaluate alprazolam sustained release tablet using Mardi gum, a comparative study on binding properties of gum and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was performed.

Methods: Formulation of alprazolam tablets (f1–f6) was done by direct compression method using 15%, 30%, and 45% concentration of gum as a natural binder, and HPMC was used as synthetic matrix forming agent. Microcrystalline cellulose was used as diluents, talc, and magnesium stearate as a lubricant and PVP K30 as the binder. The formulated batches were evaluated for parameters such as tablet thickness, % friability, hardness, weight variation, and in vitro drug release characteristics. The release information was fitted into different dynamics models to decide the release mechanism of the drug.

Results: The results showed that all the parameters of the developed tablets (f1–f6) were in fulfillment with pharmacopeia limits. In vitro, drug release studies showed that formulation f1 had most controlled and sustained manner releaser with maximum drug release of 97.89±0.52% in 18 h with comparison to f2–f4 and f6 drug release is 98.12±0.55%, 97.24±0.57%, 98.16±0.74%, and 97.26±0.35%, respectively, in 16 h and f5 giving 97.89±0.85% release in 14 h.

Conclusion: On the basis of obtained result, it can be concluded that Mardi gum can be used to sustain the drug release as a natural polymer in tablet dosage form.
SCRUB TYPHUS INFECTION AMONG PUO CASES IN THE PEDIATRIC POPULATION IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: A ANUPRIYA , B RAJKUMAR , N PRABHUSARAN , BANTHAVI S PRIYA
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Scrub typhus is an acute, febrile, exanthematous illness. This disease is underdiagnosed in India due to its non-specific and varied clinical presentation, low index of suspicion among clinicians, and lack of diagnostic facilities. This study was carried out to know the seroprevalence of scrub typhus in children with PUO and to compare a rapid test with IgM enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the diagnosis of scrub typhus.

Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted for a period of 1 year. The study population comprised mainly 280 young children attending pediatric OP and in patients admitted to a tertiary care teaching hospital with fever and related symptoms. The serum samples were tested for Weil-Felix reaction, IgM ELISA, and rapid card test.

Results: The mean age group of the study population was 7–9 years, of which 20 cases were positive. The major predisposing factor for scrub typhus infection was vegetation around houses. The sensitivity and specificity of both, card test and IgM ELISA, were 100%.

Conclusion: In this study, 7.1% of febrile children were positive for scrub typhus. Leptospirosis, dengue, and typhoid were the common coinfections found in scrub typhus, positive children. Early identification of cases and treatment at the earliest will prevent complications.
ANALYSIS OF MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF VIGNA ACONITIFOLIA (MATKI)
Authors: PANICKER SUNEETA , HAMDULE ANAM
Published: May 2021

Objective: The seeds and sprouts of matki bean (Vigna aconitifolia), a common food, contain abundant nutrients with biological activities. This work was focused to analyze and compare the medicinal properties of seeds and sprouts of matki beans, with the goal of providing scientific evidence for better application of this commonly used food as a medicine.

Methods: Using Soxhlet apparatus, ethanol extracts of matki bean sprouts and seeds were prepared. Anti-inflammatory activity (inhibition of protein denaturation, inhibition of heat induced hemolysis, and inhibition of protease activity), antioxidant activity, and antihypertensive activity were determined for both sprout and seed extracts.

Results: The anti-inflammatory activity of sprout ethanol extract was found to be highest. Sprout ethanol extract inhibited the activity angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE1) which was maximum as compared to seed extracts. Same was observed for the antioxidant activity, sprout ethanol extract showed higher activity than the seed extract.

Conclusion: The results of the present study will help us to use Vigna aconitifolia as a healthy herbal alternative for the existing chemical remedies for various disorders and rule out the issue of side effects and resistance.
THE EFFECT OF ANTICONVULSANT DRUGS ON SERUM THYROID-STIMULATING HORMONE
Authors: T T NEETHU , S SYAM , V BEENA , S P DHANYA
Published: May 2021

Objective: Antiepileptic (AED) drugs are an integral component of the management of seizure disorder; however, they have a wide spectrum of adverse effects. It is important to be aware of these side effects as they have a major impact on the quality of life and are sometimes partially reversible after drug discontinuation. Among them, the influence of AED on thyroid function is an important one. However, there is only limited data available. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of AED on thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Methods: A cross-sectional study of 1-year duration (march 2017 – march 2018) was conducted among 150 epileptic patients receiving phenytoin, carbamazepine, and sodium valproate for more than 6 months in a tertiary care center in central Kerala. Serum levels of TSH of patients on AED were compared with that of 50 healthy age- and sex-matched control groups. Data regarding the same were analyzed using SPSS version 16 with the Chi-square test, ANOVA, and independent t-test.

Results: A total of 150 epileptic patients with a mean age of 35.54 + 10.72, including 66 males (44%) and 84 females (56%) were enrolled in this study. Fifty adults of mean age 36.5+ 8.4 and male to female ratio 1.10:1 formed the control group. It was found that the mean TSH value of patients on phenytoin (3.97+ 1.47), carbamazepine (3.57+ 1.44), and sodium valproate 3.03 + 1.41 significantly higher than that of the control group (1.91 + 0.72). On comparing the mean serum TSH of the drug group significant difference noted between phenytoin and sodium valproate treated group. Among the 12 patients develop subclinical hypothyroidism 65% taking drugs for more than 5 years.

Conclusion: There is a positive correlation between the use of anticonvulsants and thyroid dysfunction and the association increases with the duration of therapy. The clinicians should be encouraged for regular monitoring of thyroid function test to impart a better quality of life to the patients.
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF AN HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF 17-Β ESTRADIOL IN POLYMERIC NANOPARTICLES
Authors: KOGA ADRIANA YURIKO , CARLETTO BRUNA , LIPINSKI LEANDRO CAVALCANTE , KLEIN TRAUDI , FARAGO PAULO VITOR
Published: May 2021

Objective: A simple high-performace liquid chromatography method was developed and validated to determine 17-β estradiol in poly (ε-caprolactone) nanocapsules.

Methods: The chromatographic conditions were as follows: C18 GL column with a mobile phase of acetonitrile:water (92:8 v/v) at flow rate of 1.5 mL/min with detection at 280 nm. The evaluated parameters were specificity, linearity, limits of detection and quantification, precision, accuracy, and robustness.

Results: The method was specific and linear (r=0.9982). The limits of detection and quantification were 5.78 μg.mL-1 and 17.54 μg.mL-1, respectively. Suitable accurancy and robustness were obtained. The stability assay showed that pH variation occured after 120 days of storage, and no changes were observed regarding the size and polydispersion parameters. The applicability of the method was evaluated by determining the encapsulation efficiency of the E2 nanocapsules after 120 days of storage. The results showed values >99%.

Conclusion: The results demonstrated the applicability of the developed and validated analytical method.
PROCESS OF ORLISTAT-LOADED CHITOSAN NANOPARTICLES USING BOX–BEHNKEN DESIGN – AN EVALUATION STUDY
Authors: BR SRINIVAS MURTHY , YELAVARTHI PRASANNA RAJU , N DEVANNA
Published: May 2021

Objective: High lipophilicity and extensive hepatic metabolism limit oral application of orlistat in obesity treatment. Orlistat-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CONPs) were optimized by 3-factor 3-level Box–Behnken design (BBD) and surfaced engineered to address limitations.

Methods: CONPs were prepared by ionic gelation method. Amounts of chitosan (X1), sodium tripoly phosphate (X2), and orlistat (X3) were selected as independent factors, whereas % entrapment efficiency (Y1) and % drug release (Y2) were employed as responses in BBD. Three-dimensional response surface plots were run to understand the main interaction and quadratic effects of independent variables. Further optimized formulation was surface engineered by Eudragit L-100 (ECONPs) and characterized by FTIR, DSC, XRD, particle size, zeta potential, and SEM. Entrapment efficiency, release kinetics, stability, and in vitro cell line studies were carried out.

Results: ECONPs were produced with an average size of 534.6 nm, zeta potential of +5.7 mV, EE of 78.62%, and DR of 80.86%. Eudragit coated CONPs anchored the release of orlistat at pH 6.8 desirable for duodenal targeting. Orlistat was released with low, burst, and sustained release manner over 24 h period followed first-order kinetics with Higuchi model with drug content of 84.87% and 78.44% of release. ECONPs possessed lipase inhibition with IC50 value of 8.0 μg/ml and viability against selected cell lines with CTC50 values (26.32–32.21 μg/ml).

Conclusion: BBD was a promising tool in elucidating the insights of formulation variables of CONPs. ECONPs fulfilled the rationale of orlistat release, lipase inhibition, and viability against selected cell lines.
WOUND HEALING ACTIVITY OF LEMON PEPPER ESSENTIAL OIL IN BURN WOUND OF WISTAR RAT
Authors: PURNAMA DEWI , GINTING CHRISMIS NOVALINDA , CHIUMAN LINDA , KHU ADRIAN
Published: May 2021

Objective: The purpose of the study was to investigate the acceleration of the wound healing properties from lemon pepper’s essential oil as the lemon pepper’s ointment.

Methods: There were 20 Wistar rats as an animal trial divided into four sample groups, including control (ointment base), standard (Nebacetin®), 5% lemon pepper, and 10% lemon pepper ointment, and all groups were injured by electric soldier for 10 s. The wound contraction and epithelialization period were the parameters of wound healing activity.

Result: Wound contraction as the parameter of wound healing showed significant difference between the standard and lemon pepper ointment (p<0.05). The lemon pepper ointment groups showed no significant wound contraction difference in each lemon pepper ointment concentration at the initial time of observation, however, it become more obvious at last period of observation. Furthermore, the epithelialization period did not showed any significant differences between standard, 5% or 10% lemon pepper ointment against the control group (p>0.05).

Conclusion: It can be concluded that the lemon pepper ointment had the potential to accelerate wound healing activity.
Metodologias... líquidas?
Authors: Soczek Daniel
Published: May 2021

RESUMO O objetivo deste texto é apresentar elementos de uma pesquisa em construção sobre as possibilidades de aplicação de metodologias imersivas na Educação Básica. Justifica-se tal discussão tendo em vista que, atualmente, a difusão crescente e contínua de tecnologias e acesso às mesmas por estudantes de ensino médio, para além da sala de aula, tem se constituído como um desafio nos processos de ensino e aprendizagem. A hipótese deste texto parte da ideia de que existe uma preocupação centrada nos meios técnicos em detrimento de uma discussão focada em conteúdos e formação humanista. O diálogo com pensadores como Marx, Gramsci e Adorno, por exemplo, podem ajudar a (re)pensar essa discussão. As reflexões aqui realizadas, na perspectiva metodológica histórico-crítica, apontam para a necessidade de repensar o uso das novas metodologias no contexto educacional contemporâneo. Palavras-chave: Metodologias imersivas. Formação do professor. Emancipação humana.   ABSTRACT The goal of this paper is to present elements of a research under construction about the possibilities of applying immersive methodologies in Basic Education. This  discussion is justified by considering that, currently, the continuous and increasing diffusion of technologies and access to them by high school students, beyond the classroom, has been a challenge in the teaching and learning processes. The hypothesis of this text starts from the idea that there is a concern centered on technical means rather than a discussion focused on content and humanist formation. The dialogue with  thinkers such as Marx, Gramsci, and Adorno, for example, may help (re) think this discussion. The reflections made here, from the historical-critical methodological perspective, point to the need to rethink the use of new methodologies in the contemporary educational context. Keywords: Immersive methodologies. Teacher education. Human emancipation.   RESUMEN El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar elementos de una investigación en construcción sobre las posibilidades de aplicar metodologías inmersivas en la Educación Básica. Tal discusión se justifica considerándose que, actualmente, la difusión creciente y continua de tecnologías y el acceso a ellas por parte de los estudiantes de secundaria, más allá del aula, ha sido un desafío en los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje. La hipótesis de este texto parte de la idea de que existe una preocupación centrada en los medios técnicos en detrimento de una discusión apoyada en contenidos y formación humanistas. El diálogo con pensadores como Marx, Gramsci y Adorno, por ejemplo, puede ayudar a (re)pensar esa discusión. Las reflexiones hechas aquí, desde la perspectiva metodológica histórico-crítica, señalan la necesidad de repensar el uso de nuevas metodologías en el contexto educativo contemporáneo. Palabras-clave: Metodologías inmersivas. Formación docente. Emancipación humana
Jovens privados de liberdade: diálogos sobre o corpo a partir da capoeira POEIRA
Authors: Kato Danilo Seithi , Reis Laudeth Alves dos
Published: May 2021

RESUMO Este artigo analisa os posicionamentos discursivos de participantes de uma experiência pedagógica denominada “Capociência”. Os sujeitos do estudo são jovens privados de liberdade, agentes socioeducativos e mediadores participantes da intervenção pedagógica que acompanharam as atividades em uma instituição pública. Os procedimentos metodológicos partem de uma abordagem qualitativa da Educação e utilizou-se um roteiro de entrevista estruturada, produções textuais dos jovens, fotos e telas de artes visuais produzidas ao longo das atividades. Como principais resultados, é possível indicar que as contradições emergentes dos discursos sobre o corpo possibilitaram um enriquecimento do potencial pedagógico de inclusão, a partir da capoeira como elemento mediador de diálogos possíveis entre saberes populares e científicos com ênfase na noção de corpo. Palavras-chave: Capoeira. Jovens infratores. Inclusão. Corpo.   ABSTRACT This article aimed to analyze the discursive placements of subjects participating in a pedagogical experience called "Capociência". The subjects of the study are young people deprived of freedom, those agents and mediator participants of educational intervention that accompanied the activities in a public institution. The methodological procedures are based on a qualitative approach of education and used a script structured interview, textual youth productions, pictures and screens of visual arts produced during the activities. As main results, it is possible to indicate that the emerging contradictions of body discourses have made it possible to enrich capoeira's pedagogical potential of social inclusion, with capoeira as a mediator element of possible dialogues between popular and scientific knowledge, with an emphasis on the body notion . Keywords: Capoeira. Young People Deprived of their Freedom. Social inclusion. Body.  RESUMEN Este artículo analiza las posiciones discursivas de los participantes en una experiencia pedagógica denominada "Capociência". Los sujetos de estudio son jóvenes privados de libertad, agentes socioeducativos y mediadores que participaron en la intervención pedagógica desarrollada en una institución pública. Los procedimientos metodológicos parten de un enfoque cualitativo de la educación y utilizan un guión de entrevista estructurada, producciones textuales de los jóvenes, fotos y artes visuales producidas a lo largo de las actividades. Entre los principales resultados, es posible indicar que las contradicciones surgidas en los discursos sobre el cuerpo permitieron el enriquecimiento del potencial pedagógico de la inclusión, con la Capoeira como mediador de posibles diálogos entre el conocimiento popular y el de la ciencia, con énfasis en la noción del cuerpo. Palabras-clave: Capoeira. Jóvenes privados de libertad. Inclusión. Cuerpo.
O ensino de física a partir dos quadrinhos do Homem Aranha
Authors: Braga Junior Amaro Xavier , Valentim Moisés Xavier Guimarães
Published: May 2021

RESUMO O artigo consiste em apresentar uma proposta de aula de física mecânica através da cena da morte de Gwen Stacy nas histórias do Homem-Aranha. Na primeira seção, são revistos os argumentos e pesquisas que debatem a eficiência dos quadrinhos como ferramenta pedagógica e sua relação com a física e ciências em geral, resgatando o uso dos quadrinhos para o ensino de ciências exatas e da natureza. Apresenta de maneira qualitativa e quantitativa os conceitos de mecânica envolvidos na morte da personagem e as proposições curriculares para a inserção em sala de aula. Por fim, sugere na forma de resultados sistemas de organização e desenvolvimento de conteúdos que podem ser explorados em planos de aula, visando auxiliar os docentes na tarefa de ministrar o ensino de física. Palavras-chave: Histórias em Quadrinhos; Ensino de Física; Leis da Mecânica; Planos de Aula; Educação.   ABSTRACT The paper consists of presenting a proposal for a mechanical physics class through the scene of Gwen Stacy's death in Spider-Man stories. In the first section, the arguments and research that debate the efficiency of comics as a pedagogical tool and its relationship with physics and science in general are reviewed, rescuing the use of comics for the teaching of exact and nature sciences. It presents in a qualitative and quantitative way the concepts of mechanics involved in the death of the character and the curricular proposals for insertion in the classroom. Finally, it suggests in the form of results systems of organization and development of contents that can be explored in lesson plans, aiming to assist teachers in the task of teaching physics teaching. Keywords: Comics; Physics teaching; Laws of Mechanics; Lesson Plans; Education.   RESUMEN El artículo consiste en presentar una propuesta para una clase de física mecánica a través de la escena de la muerte de Gwen Stacy en las historietas de Spider-Man. En la primera sección, se revisan los argumentos y la investigación que debaten la eficiencia de los cómics como una herramienta pedagógica y su relación con la física y la ciencia en general, rescatando el uso de los cómics para la enseñanza de las ciencias exactas y de la naturaleza. Presenta de forma cualitativa y cuantitativa los conceptos de mecánica involucrados en la muerte del personaje y las propuestas curriculares para su inserción en el aula. Finalmente, sugiere en forma de sistemas de resultados de organización y desarrollo de contenidos que pueden explorarse en los planes de lecciones, con el objetivo de ayudar a los maestros en la tarea de enseñar la enseñanza de la física. Palabras clave: Comics; Didáctica de la física; Leyes de la mecânica; Planes de lecciones; Educación.