bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraction of Spatiotemporal Distribution Characteristics and Spatiotemporal Reconstruction of Rainfall Data by PCA Algorithm
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Yesen , Liu Shu , Ren Hancheng , Tian Peinan , Yang Nana
Published: October 2023

Scientific analyses of urban flood risks are essential for evaluating urban flood insurance and designing drainage projects. Although the current rainfall monitoring system in China has a dense station network and high-precision rainfall data, the time series is short. In contrast, historical rainfall data have a longer sample time series but lower precision. This study introduced a PCA algorithm to reconstruct historical rainfall data. Based on the temporal and spatial characteristics of rainfall extracted from high-resolution rainfall data over the past decade, historical (6 h intervals) rainfall spatial data were reconstructed into high-resolution (1 h intervals) spatial data to satisfy the requirements of the urban flood risk analysis. The results showed that the average error between the reconstructed data and measured values in the high-value area was within 15% and in the low-value area was within 20%, representing decreases of approximately 65% and 40%, respectively, compared to traditional interpolation data. The reconstructed historical spatial rainfall data conformed to the temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of rainfall, improved the granularity of rainfall spatial data, and enabled the effective and reasonable extraction and summary of the fine temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of rainfall.
Risk management in a medical organization
Authors:   SBHI RR Kerch City Children’s Hospital, Rybachok O. A.
Published: October 2023

The introduction of ISO 9001:2015 standards into widespread clinical practice is one of the priorities for managing the quality of medical care. The risk-oriented approach is an essential component of standardization under the ISO system. The article proposes an algorithm for managing patient safety risks in a medical organization and general rules for developing a corrective risk program.
Dental health of first-year students of the Novgorod State University
Authors:   Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University, Shmandina K. V. , Britova A. A. ,   Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University, Belokurov N. N. ,   Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University
Published: October 2023

Goal and objectives: to study the dental health of 1st year students of the Novgorod State University. Materials and methods: questionnaire, literature review, study of statistical data on the Russian Federation, India, Egypt, and Pakistan. An analysis of the dental health of first-year Russian and foreign students of the Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University was carried out, and factors influencing dental health were identified. Official reports on the condition and composition of tap water in the city of Veliky Novgorod and tap water in Egypt, India, and Pakistan were studied. The standards for the content of fluorine and iodine in tap water in Veliky Novgorod, Egypt, India, and Pakistan were analyzed. The influence of changing climatic conditions, quality of nutrition, and the presence of bad habits and stress on the development of dental diseases in students was considered. The World Health Organization’s global oral health status report for 2022 in the Russian Federation, Egypt, India, and Pakistan was analyzed. A survey among students of the Novgorod University was conducted in order to evaluate water in the Novgorod Region in comparison with their homeland; the survey included general health questions with an emphasis on oral hygiene. What paste, brush, and cleaning method students used when brushing their teeth, and if they visited the dentist. What dental problems they had before and what issues they have now. Conclusions: To provide recommendations on oral hygiene, the choice of oral hygiene items and products, the diet taking into account the fluorine and iodine content in the region, and daily routine.
Pulmonary hypertension and pregnancy
Authors:   FSBI National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after academician V. I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Klimov V. A.
Published: October 2023

Pulmonary hypertension is a group of diseases characterized by a progressive increase in pulmonary vascular resistance, which leads to right ventricular failure and premature death. Pulmonary hypertension has a severe course with a pronounced decrease in physical endurance and leads to heart failure. It was first identified by Dr. Ernst von Romberg in 1891.
Complex case of systemic vasculitis
Authors:   Medsi Clinic, Moscow, Krasnopolskaya A. F.
Published: October 2023

Vasculitis is a general term that defines a combined group of diseases based on immunopathological inflammation of blood vessels — arteries, arterioles, capillaries, venules, and veins. As a rule, the consequence of this disease is a change in the structure and function of organs supplied with blood by inflamed vessels. The causes of the disease remain unknown. A combination of genetic predisposition with environmental factors, as well as infections involving Staphylococcus aureus or hepatitis virus, are suspected. The article presents a case of systemic vasculitis, which required a complex differential diagnostic search and timely choice of treatment tactics.
November 14 — World Diabetes Day
Authors:   State Institution «Lugansk Republican Blood Transfusion Station», Lugansk, Sakhno N. N.
Published: October 2023

Today, there are about half a billion people with diabetes all over the world, and almost a third of them do not even know about their diagnosis. Expressing serious concern about this state of affairs, in 1991 the International Diabetes Federation proposed that November 14 should be considered World Diabetes Day. It was on this day that the Canadian doctor and scientist Frederick Banting, a Nobel laureate, was born. Together with his colleagues, he discovered insulin and gave millions of patients hope for salvation. This initiative was supported by the World Health Organization, and on this day, for almost thirty years, doctors around the world have urged not to remain indifferent and unsympathetic to those suffering from this terrible disease. Since 2007, World Diabetes Day has been observed under the auspices of the United Nations (UN); this day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in a special resolution in 2006.
PENGARUH ART THERAPY TERHADAP KUALITAS HIDUP PASIEN PENYAKIT GINJAL KRONIK DENGAN HEMODIALISIS
Authors: Nurhayati Farial , Ritianingsih Nieniek
Published: October 2023

Kualitas hidup pada pasien Penyakit Ginjal Kronik (PGK) telah menurun ketika tingkat PGK meningkat terutama jika jumlah albumin tinggi dan tingkat hemoglobin menurun. Kualitas hidup terkait kesehatan berhubungan dengan progresifitas tingkat PGK. Art terapi salah satu terapi yang dapat dilakukan pada pasien hemodialisis untuk menurunkan tingkat depresi dan kecemasan serta stress sehingga diharapkan kualitas hidup pasien PGK dapat meningkat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh art therapy drawing and coloring terhadap kualitas hidup pasien penyakit ginjal kronik dengan hemodialisis. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif yang menggunakan metode kuasi eksperimen dengan pendekatan pre test – post test control group design. Jumlah sample sebanyak 41 orang kelompok intervensi dan 41 orang kelompok kontrol. Jenis analisis bivariat yang digunakan adalah Paired t-test dan independent t-test. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan pada kelompok intervensi ada pengaruh art therapy drawing and coloring terhadap kualitas hidup pasien penyakit ginjal kronik dengan hemodialisis sesudah intervensi p-value 0,001. Art therapy drawing and coloring mempengaruhi kualitas hidup pasien penyakit ginjal kronik yang menjalani hemodialisis setelah intervensi, dengan nilai p-value sebesar 0,001 pada kelompok intervensi dibandingkan dengan kelompok kontrol. Art therapy drawing and coloring dapat digunakan sebagai intervensi keperawatan untuk meningkatkan kualitas hidup pasien penyakit ginjal kronik dengan hemodialisis.
Time Series Modeling and Forecasting of Drug-Related Deaths in Iran (2014-2016)
Authors: Zarghami Mehran , Kharazmi Omid , Alipour Abbas , Babakhanian Masoudeh , Khosravi Ardeshr , Mirtorabi Seyyed Davood
Published: October 2023

Background: Investigating the temporal variations and forecasting the trends in drug-related deaths can help prevent health problems and develop intervention programs. The recent policy in Iran is strongly focused on deterring drug use and replacing illicit drugs with legal ones. This study aimed to investigate drug-related deaths in Iran in 2014-2016 and forecast the death toll by 2019. Methods: In this longitudinal study, Box-Jenkins time series analysis was used to forecast drug-related deaths. To this end, monthly counts of drug-related deaths were obtained from March 2014 to March 2017. After data processing, to obtain stationary time series and examine the stability assumption with the Dickey-Fuller test, the parameters of the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Averages (ARIMA) model were determined using autocorrelation function (ACF) and partial autocorrelation function (PACF) graphs. Based on Akaike statistics, ARIMA (0, 1, 1) was selected as the best-fit model. Moreover, the Dickey-Fuller test was used to confirm the stationarity of the time series of transformed observations. The forecasts were made for the next 36 months using the ARIMA (0,1,2) model and the same confidence intervals were applied to all months. The final extracted data were analyzed using R software, Minitab, and SPSS-23. Findings: According to the Iranian Ministry of Health and the Legal Medicine Organization, there were 8883 drug-related deaths in Iran from March 2014 to March 2017. According to the time series findings, this count had an upward trend and did not show any seasonal pattern. It was forecasted that the mean drug-related mortality rate in Iran would be 245.8 cases per month until 2019. Conclusion: This study showed a rising trend in drug-related mortality rates during the study period, and the modeling process for forecasting suggested this trend would continue until 2019 if proper interventions were not instituted.
Classifying the Factors Affecting Information Therapy to Support Clinical Decisions on Addiction
Authors: Mohammadesmaeil Sedigheh , Kianmehr Shiba
Published: October 2023

Background: The present study aimed to identify the dimensions and components of developing an information therapy approach for clinical decisions on addiction in addiction treatment centers based on the opinions of thematic specialists in Iran using the fuzzy Delphi technique. Methods: This study was a qualitative one conducted using Delphi method on 20 researchers of addiction treatment in the areas of psychiatry, psychology, medicine, etc. Findings: The analysis of the data revealed 92 indicators in two dimensions, namely information dimension (health literacy) and treatment dimension (health services), each containing 6 components. The information dimension included acquiring information, identifying information, sharing information, raising awareness, information needs, and health knowledge, and the treatment dimension included patient satisfaction, information-seeking behaviors and skills, treatment methods and costs, participatory care and use of information, educational interventions, and disease prevention. Conclusion: Developing an information therapy approach in addiction treatment, as a cost-effective and low-cost method, is one of the cognitive strategies that can be used by officials to pave the way for health in this regard. This technique aims to improve the quality of medical services and care for addicts and is a suitable solution to meet their needs.
Biopsychosocial Determinants of Problematic Pornography Use: A Systematic Review
Authors: Seyedzadeh Dalooyi Seyed Iman , Aghamohammadian Sharbaaf Hamidreza , Abdekhodaei Mohammad Saeed , Ghanaei Chamanabad Ali
Published: October 2023

Background: Although some studies have examined the determinants of problematic pornography use (PPU), few systematic comparisons of risk profiles have been conducted so far. Research on risk profiles can shed a bright light on our knowledge of both the early diagnosis and etiology of such highly prevalent disorders. Accordingly, the present study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the determinants of PPU. Methods: Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and PsycINFO databases were systematically searched, and relevant English articles, including longitudinal and cross-sectional studies on risk factors published from January 2000 to February 2022 were reviewed. Findings: The determinants of PPU extracted from the investigated studies (n=66) were summarized and clustered into biological, psychological, and social categories. The findings indicated that ventral striatum activity is a consistent biological factor which plays a key role in the development of PPU, while there were other psychological factors influencing PPU as mentioned in several studies, including craving, low self-esteem, sexual arousal, coping styles, stress, frequent pornography watching, avoidance, negative beliefs, and emotional deficiency. In addition, the social factors affecting PPU have been reported to be male gender, age, religion, moral incompatibility, and loneliness. According to these results, the identified factors could be considered in preventive treatment. Conclusion: This systematic review provided a comprehensive overview of the biopsychosocial determinants of PPU by analyzing 66 articles mostly from Europe and North America. Most studies showed that ventral striatum activity, craving, self-esteem, stress, frequent pornography watching, gender, age, and religion are related to PPU.
Prevalence of Tuberculosis among People Who Use Drugs in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Rafiemanesh Hosein , Shadloo Behrang , Amin-Esmaeili Masoumeh , Rahimi Yekta , Gholami Jaleh , Rahimi-Movaghar Afarin
Published: October 2023

Background: Drug use, especially injecting drug use, is associated with a higher risk of tuberculosis (TB). This study aimed to systematically review the prevalence of TB among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Iran. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in international and national databases. All studies that provided data on the prevalence of TB among PWUD based on screening tests and diagnosis from 1990 up to August 2019 were assessed. Meta-analysis was performed on the prevalence of active TB among people who inject drugs (PWID). Findings: Overall, nine studies were included. The studies were carried out from 1994 to 2012 in seven out of the 31 provinces of Iran. Seven studies provided data on the prevalence of TB diagnosis among 1087 PWID. The pooled prevalence of TB diagnosis was 10.1% (95% CI: 4.5, 15.8) in studies carried out in hospitals and 0.54% (95% CI: 0.04, 1.04) in other settings. Conclusion: The present review suggests an approximately 40 times higher prevalence of TB among PWID compared to the general population. However, most of the included studies were conducted on a subpopulation of drug users, and caution should be exercised when generalizing the findings.
Evaluation of the Effect of Vitamin E on Reproductive Parameters in Morphine-Treated Male Mice
Authors: Arjmand Katayoon , Daneshi Erfan , Pourmasumi Soheila , Fathi Fardin , Nasseri Sherko , Sabeti Parvin
Published: October 2023

Background: Morphine is a narcotic pain reliever that is prescribed to reduce postoperative pain and can produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, it can have negative effects on spermatogenesis and male fertility. Vitamin E is an effective antioxidant which plays an important role in membrane lipid peroxidation due to increased ROS. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of vitamin E and morphine on sperm parameters, level of malondialdehyde (MDA), and diameter of seminiferous tubules in morphine-treated mice. Methods: In this experimental study, 80 mice were divided into ten groups (n=8) including control, normal saline, vehicle, morphine, various doses of vitamin E (100, 200, 300 mg/kg), and morphine plus vitamin E (100, 200, 300 mg/kg) groups. The groups were followed up for 30 consecutive days. Sperm parameters, testis weight, the diameter of seminiferous tubules, and the level of MDA were analyzed and compared. Findings: Data analysis showed seminal parameters decreased significantly (excluding sperm count) and there was an increase in the level of MDA in morphine-treated mice compared with the normal saline group (P<0.05). Administration of E100 to morphinetreated mice did not show a significant difference in the evaluated parameters compared with the morphine group. However, E200 and E300 significantly reduced MDA and improved sperm parameters (P≤0.05). Conclusion: The results showed co-administration of vitamin E in high doses (200 & 300) could prevent the deleterious effects of morphine on some reproductive parameters and decrease the level of MDA in morphine-treated mice.
Investigating Response Priorities in Oil Pollution Emergencies in an Unloading and Loading Dock Using McKinsey’s 7s Gap Analysis Method
Authors: Hejri Sedigheh , Jaafarzadeh Neamatollah , Sabzalipour Sima , Davami Amir Hossein , Farrokhian Forouzan
Published: October 2023

Background & Aims: The most critical environmental challenge of maritime transport in recent decades has been oil pollution. The present study was carried out to identify and determine the rate and ranking of oil pollution in the unloading and loading dock of Imam Khomeini Port by the Development Approach of the Management Model of Prevention and Response against Pollution in Emergencies in 2020. Materials & Methods: In the present descriptive-applied study, the criteria and sub-criteria influencing in prioritizing responses in oil spill emergencies in the unloading and loading dock of Imam Khomeini Port were identified by the documentary method, prioritized based on the technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) multi-criteria decision-making method, and scored by 10 experts. McKinsey’s 7s gap analysis method was also used to estimate the gap between the current and the ideal situation. Results: Out of 18 oil pollution scenarios, 4 were determined as emergencies. Conservation of environmental resources in case of an accident and determination of responsibility before accidents occur, with mean scores of 4.4 and 4.35, were determined as the most important agendas for planning in emergencies. In the gap analysis process with McKinsey’s method and the output spider web model, 7 components of strategy (1.65), skills (1.75), staff (2.2), management style (2.27), shared methods (2.38), structure (2.54), and system (2.79) were determined as the emergency response plan priorities. Conclusion: The study’s results showed that while several factors can result in oil pollution emergencies in the unloading and loading dock of Imam Khomeini Port, there is no ideal situation for managing these threats based on gap analysis.
Macroscopic and Microscopic Survey of Sarcocystis spp. Infection in Slaughtered Cattle and Sheep in Tabriz, Iran
Authors: Hajipour Nasser
Published: October 2023

Background & Aims: Sarcocystis infection is one of the most common protozoan infections between humans and animals, which is caused by different species of Sarcocystis. The study aimed to investigate Sarcocystis infection in cattle and sheep slaughtered in Tabriz slaughterhouse by microscopic and macroscopic methods. Materials amd Methods: Diaphragmatic muscles of 500 cattle and 800 sheep were randomly selected for macroscopic and microscopic Sarcocystis cysts. A naked eye examination was done for macroscopic sarcocysts, while peptic digestion and Daub smear method were used for the microscopic cysts. Results: The overall prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. infection was 44.0% and 68.25% in cattle and sheep, respectively. The results showed that rate of infection of cattle with Sarcocystis spp. was 10.4%, 90.0%, and 22.3% by macroscopic, peptic digestion, and Daub smear methods, respectively. Meanwhile, the percentage of infected sheep was determined by macroscopic, peptic digestion, and Daub smear methods as 30.6%, 100.0%, and 44.1%, respectively (P<0.05). Conclusion: It is concluded that digestion is a perfect method for diagnosing sarcocysts in cattle and sheep. As well as, the high prevalence of microscopic Sarcocystis spp. in cattle and sheep of Tabriz, is suggested that meat should be cooked sufficiently, the people to be trained not to feed their dogs and cats with uncooked meat.
Investigation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Effect of Chemical Compounds Cardamine uliginosa Plant
Authors: Soori Maryam , Nejad Ghaffar Bibi Zahra , Abbaspour Hossein , Hashemi-Moghaddam Hamid , Moradi Reza
Published: October 2023

Background & Aims: Brassicaceae is a medium-sized family of flowering plants. The family contains more than 327 genera. Cardamine uliginosa is a type of plant of this species. Chemical and biochemical findings of this genus are very limited. This study aimed to investigate the chemical compounds and antioxidant and antibacterial properties of C. uliginosa. Materials and Methods: Essential oil was prepared by hydrodistillation method and microwave assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD). The chemical composition of essential oil was evaluated by GC and GC-MS methods. The antioxidant property of the hydroalcoholic extract was investigated by 2, 2-dipheny1-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) solution. Finally, the antibacterial activity of C. uliginosa was investigated using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) methods. Results: Phetalic acid, Phenil, Caryophyllene, Eicosane, and other chemical compounds were found in the essential oil of C. uliginosa. The half maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) of hydroalcoholic extract was 0.42 µg/mL. The MIC and the MBC against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were 15.62 and 31.25 respectively. The major compounds in the essential oils were 3-methyl-4-isopropylphenol (15.20%) and 1, 2-benzenedicarboxylic acid (16.75%). Conclusion: Considering the chemical compounds of C. uliginosa and the finding of the antibacterial and antioxidant activity of C. uliginosa in vitro, capability of this plant needs to be further investigated for use in health and medical industries.
Environmental Monitoring and Assessment for Landfill Site Selection Using GIS-Based SWARA and Rapid Impact Assessment Matrix
Authors: Ghobadi Morteza
Published: October 2023

Landfill site selection is a complex decision-making process which requires the evaluation of various environmental, social, and economic criteria. The present research aims to propose a GIS-based Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method for landfill site selection in the east of Lorestan province, Iran. The study used 11 criteria including land use, distance from protected areas, slope, elevation, distance from the water resource, distance from the road, geology, distance from the fault, soil texture, distance from the city, and distance from the village. The results show that the proposed method can be used as a reliable tool for landfill site selection. The method provides decision-makers with a systematic approach to evaluate and rank potential sites based on their suitability. The study found that distance from water resources and soil texture were the most important criteria for landfill site selection in the study area. The proposed method can help decision-makers to identify suitable sites for landfill development considering potential environmental impacts. The study highlights the importance of using the GIS-based SWARA technique for landfill site selection, as it provides a comprehensive and efficient approach to decision-making. The proposed GIS-based SWARA method can be used as a valuable tool for landfill site selection in other regions and can help in achieving sustainable development goals.
Recent progress in the oral delivery of therapeutic peptides and proteins: Overview of pharmaceutical strategies to overcome absorption hurdles
Authors: Mehrotra Sonal , Kalyan BG Pavan , Nayak Pawan G , Joseph Alex , Manikkath Jyothsna
Published: October 2023

Objective: This review aims to critically examine and summarize the innovations and mechanisms involved in oral delivery of peptide and protein drugs. Significance: Proteins and peptides have secured a place as excellent therapeutic moieties on account of their high selectivity and efficacy. However due to oral absorption limitations, current formulations are mostly delivered parenterally. Oral delivery of peptides and proteins can be considered the need of the hour due to the immense benefits of this route. Methods: Comprehensive literature search was undertaken, spanning the early development to the current state of the art, using online search tools (PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Scopus). Results: Research in oral delivery of proteins and peptides has a long and rich history and the development of biologics has encouraged additional research effort in recent decades. Enzyme hydrolysis and inadequate permeation into intestinal mucosa are the major causes that result in limited oral absorption of biologics. Pharmaceutical and technological strategies including use of absorption enhancers, enzyme inhibition, chemical modification (PEGlyation, pro-drug approach, peptidomimetics, glycosylation), particulate delivery (polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, microspheres), site-specific delivery in the GIT, membrane transporters, novel approaches (self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems, Eligen technology, peptelligence, self-assembling bubble carrier approach, luminal unfolding microneedle injector, microneedles) and lymphatic targeting, are discussed. Limitations of these strategies and future innovations for improving oral bioavailability of protein and peptide drugs are also discussed. Conclusion: This review underlines the application of oral route for peptide and protein delivery, which can direct the formulation scientist for better exploitation of this route.
Green formulation of spironolactone loaded chitosan coated nano lipid carrier for treatment of acne vulgaris: a randomized double-blind clinical trial
Authors: Saeedi Majid , Morteza-Semnani Katayoun , Akbari Jafar , Hajheydari Zohreh , Goodarzi Amin , Rostamkalaei Seyyed Sohrab , Hashemi Seyyed Mohammad Hassan , Rahimnia Seyyed Mobin
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Spironolactone (SPN), which is classified as an anti-androgen, has demonstrated efficacy in treating acne. This study aimed to utilize ultrasonication to create a chitosan-coated nano lipid carrier (NLC) for enhancing the delivery of SPN to the skin and treating acne. Methods: Various Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) values were investigated to optimize the SPN-NLCs. Photon correlation spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were employed to characterize the solid state of SPN in nanoparticle form. Additionally, the optimized formulation was used in a double-blind, randomized clinical trial. Results: Reducing the HLB of the surfactant mixtures resulted in a reduction in the size of SPN-NLCs. The formula with the smallest particle diameter (238.4±0.74 nm) and the lowest HLB value (9.65) exhibited the highest encapsulation efficiency of 79.88 ± 1.807%. Coating the optimized SPN-NLC with chitosan increased the diameter, PDI, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. In vitro skin absorption studies demonstrated sustained release profiles for chitosan-coated SPN-NLC. In the double-blind trial, a gel containing chitosan-coated SPN-NLC effectively treated mild to moderate acne vulgaris, leading to improved healing and reduced lesion count after 8 weeks of therapy compared to the placebo. It successfully addressed both non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions without adverse effects on the skin. Conclusion: The findings indicate that chitosan-coated SPN-NLCs have the potential as nanoparticles for targeted SPN delivery to the skin, offering novel options for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
A comprehensive review on Novel Lipid- Based nano drug delivery
Authors: Godase Sonam Suresh , Kulkarni Nilesh Shrikant , Dhole Shashikant Nivrutti
Published: October 2023

Novel drug delivery system opens the doors towards Nano/Micro formulation strategies to overcome the challenges associated with the poorly soluble and permeable drugs. Lipid based nanoparticles are widely accepted that includes liposomes, niosomes and micelles which are FDA approved. Such lipid based drug delivery allows delivery for natural phytoconstituents, BCS class II and class IV drugs are effectively delivered to improve its solubility, permeability and bioavailability. The article provides the recent advances and application of lipid based dosage form for improvement of therapeutic efficacy.
The apoptotic, oxidative and histological changes induced by different diameters of sphere gold nanoparticles (GNPs) with special emphasis on the hepatoprotective role of Quercetin
Authors: Ghonimi Wael
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) as pharmaceutical and drug delivery tools exhibited harmful effects on human health and other living species. Quercetin reveals various pharmacological effects specially antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic. This study is directed to investigate hepatotoxicity of GNPs, in addition, to assess the impact of quercetin in mitigating the toxicological effects of GNPs. Methods: Groups of rats were treated with or without sphere GNPs (10, 20 and 50 nm) and quercetin (200 mg/kg b.wt.). Blood and liver samples from euthanized rats were subjected to biochemical, hematological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical investigations. Results: In comparison with 20 and 50 nm treated groups, the 10 nm GNPs significantly increased serum hepatic enzymes; AST, ALT, ALP and bilirubin. These 10 nm GNPs were associated with oxidative stress and markedly decreased antioxidant enzymes: GPX, CAT and SOD. Immunohistochemically, 10 nm GNPs expressed intense positive signals in nuclei of hepatocytes when stained with anti-caspase-3 antibody confirming extensive apoptosis. Pre-cotreatment with quercetin decreased all tested hepatic enzymes and increased serum level of antioxidant enzymes compared to 10 nm GNPs. Quercetin treatment strongly exhibited anti-Ki67 antibody (proliferative marker) indicating high proliferation of hepatic parenchyma. Histopathologically, 10 nm GNPs revealed diffuse hydropic degenerations, severe sinusoidal congestion, coagulative necrosis, sever steatosis and diffuse hemosiderosis within the hepatic parenchyma. Quercetin treatment ameliorated most of these pathological effects. Conclusion: The smaller diameters of GNPs induce potential oxidative stress, cytotoxic, and apoptotic effects in hepatic tissues rather than larger ones. In addition, quercetin demonstrated a significant prophylactic role against hepatotoxicity of GNPs.
Molecular properties prediction, anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities of some pyrimido[1,2-b]pyridazin-2-one derivatives
Authors: Zeiz Ali , Kawtharani Ranin , Elmasri Mirvat , Khawaja Ghada , Hamade Eva , Habib Aida , Ayoub Abeer J. , Abarbri Mohamed , El-Dakdouki Mohammad H.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities of a novel series of eleven pyrimido[1,2-b]pyridazin-2-one analogues substituted at position 7 were assessed in the current study. Methods: The physicochemical characteristics were studied using MolSoft software. The antiproliferative activity was investigated by MTT cell viability assay, and cell cycle analysis elucidated the antiproliferative mechanism of action. Western blot analysis examined the expression levels of key pro-apoptotic (Bax, p53) and pro-survival (Bcl-2) proteins. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by measuring the production levels of nitric oxide in RAW264.7 cells, and the expression levels of COX-2 enzyme in LPS-activated THP-1 cells. In addition, the gene expression of various pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α) and chemokines (CCL2, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3) was assessed by RT-qPCR. Results: Compound 1 bearing a chlorine substituent displayed the highest cytotoxic activity against HCT-116 and MCF-7 cancer cells where IC50 values of 49.35 ± 2.685 and 69.32 ± 3.186 µM, respectively, were achieved. Compound 1 increased the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins p53 and Bax while reducing the expression of pro-survival protein Bcl-2. Cell cycle analysis revealed that compound 1 arrested cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. Anti-inflammatory assessments revealed that compound 1 displayed the strongest inhibitory activity on NO production with IC50 of 29.94 ± 2.24 µM, and down-regulated the expression of COX-2. Compound 1 also induced a statistically significant decrease in the gene expression of various cytokines and chemokines. Conclusion: These findings showed that the pyrimidine derivative 1 displayed potent anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties in vitro, and can be selected as a lead compound for further investigation.
Comparing the Effect of Conventional and Team Triage Methods on Emergency Department Performance Indicators
Authors: Yousefi Zhila , Shahsavarinia Kavous , Narimani Mohammad Reza , Feizollahzadeh Hossein
Published: October 2023

Background. Effective triage is a viable solution to improve performance indicators in the emergency department. This study aimed to compare the effect of conventional triage and team triage methods on the performance indicators of emergency department. Methods. In this descriptive cross-sectional research, all 749 patients referred to the emergency department of Tabriz Sina Hospital were triaged using conventional and team methods for two consecutive weeks in July 2020. A researcher-made checklist was used to collect emergency performance indicators. The data were extracted from patient records and recorded in the checklist. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests in the SPSS.19 software. Results. Among the patients, 86.9% in the triage group using the conventional method (52.7% female) and 86.7% in the group using the team method (52% female) were older than 40 years. The results showed that in the team triage group, the number of temporarily hospitalized patients was significantly higher and the frequency of self-responsible exit was lower compared to the conventional method (P < 0.05). In addition, the waiting time for patients triaged with the team method was shorter, and the difference in values was significant for all three triage levels (P < 0.05). Conclusion. According to our results, team triage had a more positive effect on improving emergency performance indicators compared to the conventional method. Therefore, it is recommended to consider this method in hospital emergency departments to provide better services and increase patient satisfaction.
Identifying the Contextual Factors Affecting the Policymaking of Physical Activity in Iran: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Fathi Behrouz , Khodayari-Zarnagh Rahim
Published: October 2023

Background. The reduced level of physical activity is a current global concern. To address this concern, encouraging physical activity should be highlighted by public health policymakers of the countries. This study aimed to identify the factors affecting the policies on physical activity in Iran. Methods. In this qualitative study, the analytical framework was adopted to interview 23 key informants selected by the targeted sampling with maximum variation from October 2020 to February 2021. The semi-structured interviews were performed and analyzed until the data saturation was achieved. MAXQDA-10 software was used for data management. Results. Different factors including managerial-structural, socio-cultural, political (i.e., policymaking, legal, and international), and situational factors (i.e., perceived environmental factors, changes in people's lifestyle, and restrictions caused by COVID-19) were the main contextual factors affecting the policymaking process. Conclusion. It was concluded that several relevant factors affected the policymaking in Iran regarding the physical activity. Therefore, it was recommended that these contributory factors should be considered by policymakers when making policies on physical activities.
Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Values and Intra-tumoral Susceptibility Signals in Meningiomas and Schwannomas: Useful Tools for Challenging Cases
Authors: Swaika Sweta , Gupta Akshara , Agarwal Sourabh
Published: October 2023

Background: We aimed to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of apparent diffusion coefficient values (ADC) and intra-tumoral susceptibility signals (ITSS) in differentiating meningiomas and schwannomas. Methods: This retrospective study included 41 patients with 23 histopathologically proven meningiomas (20 patients with benign meningioma and 3 patients with high-grade meningioma) and 18 schwannomas. We calculated the mean ADC values and ADC ratio from ADC maps and intratumoral susceptibility signals (ITSS) in susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) for all patients. The quantitative variables were compared between the tumor groups using t test and the qualitative variables were compared between them using Chi-square test. Results: In this study, the mean ADC value of meningiomas (0.86±0.11×10-3 mm2 /s, range 0.67-1.04) was lower than schwannomas (1.32±0.16×10-3 mm2 /s, range 1.10-1.65) with no overlap in the range of ADC values. The mean ADC ratio of schwannomas (2.0±0.29, range 1.45- 2.58) was higher than meningiomas (1.24±0.17, range 0.83-1.64) with some overlap. We found significant difference in mean ADC value and ADC ratio between meningiomas and schwannomas. The presence of intratumoral microhemorrhages (ITSS-H) in SWI was more suggestive of schwannomas and the presence of calcification was in favor of benign meningiomas. We did not find any significant difference in mean ADC value and ADC ratio between benign and high-grade meningiomas with considerable overlap in their range. Conclusion: Additional magnetic resonance imaging findings such as ADC values and ITSS in SWI can help better pre-operative diagnosis of meningiomas and schwannomas, particularly in challenging patients.
Serum Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Level and Previous Disease Activity in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Hamdy Eman , Ramdan Ismail , Mekky Jaidaa , Abdel Gleel Aya , Gaber Dina
Published: October 2023

Background: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is a marker of blood-brain barrier destruction, that is elevated during clinical relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS). In between relapses, MMP-9 levels decline but remain higher than the normal population. This study aimed to investigate the relation between serum MMP-9 level and disease activity in MS during relapse-free periods. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted on adult patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) whose last relapse was≥1 month ago. Serum MMP-9 was withdrawn at the time of recruitment and correlated with parameters of disease activity. Results: Of the 40 patients recruited, 75% were women. The mean age was 36.2±8.4 years, and the mean disease duration was 7 years. Patients’ median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was 3.5 (IQR: 2.5-5.25), the median duration since the last relapse was 3 months, and the median duration since last corticosteroid administration was 6 months. On multivariate regression analysis, there was a significant association between serum MMP-9 levels and duration since the last relapse (B: -0.004, 95% CI: -0.007- -0.002, P=0.001) as well as duration since the last corticosteroid intake (B: -0.003, 95% CI: -0.006- -0.001, P=0.005). Conclusion: Serum MMP-9 levels correlated with the duration since last relapse and duration since last corticosteroids administration during relapse-free periods.
Innovative Measures of Verhulst Diagram for Emotion Recognition using Eye-Blinking Variability
Authors: Goshvarpour Atefeh , Goshvarpour Ateke
Published: October 2023

Background: The human body continuously reveals the status of several organs through biomedical signals. Over time, biomedical signal acquisition, monitoring, and analysis have captured the attention of many scientists for further prediction, diagnosis, decision-making, and recognition. Recently, building an intelligent emotion recognition system has become a challenging issue using the application of signal processing. Frequently, human emotion classification was proposed utilizing the internal body status in dealing with affective provocations. However, external states, such as eye movements, have been claimed to convey practical information about the participant’s emotions. In this study, we proposed an automatic emotion recognition scheme through the analysis of a single-modal eye-blinking variability. Methods: Initially, the signal was transformed into a 2D space using the Verhulst diagram, a simple analysis based on the signal’s dynamics. Next, some innovative features were introduced to characterize the maps. Then, the extracted measures were inputted to the support vector machine (SVM) and k-nearest neighbor (kNN). The former classifier was evaluated with three kernel functions, including RBF, linear, and polynomial. The latter performances were examined with different values for k. Moreover, the classification results were assessed in two feature-set partitioning modes: a 5-fold and 10-fold cross-validation. Results: The results showed a statistically significant difference between neutral/fear and neutral/sadness for all Verhulst indices. Also, the average values of these characteristics were higher for fear and sadness than those of other emotions. Our results indicated a maximum rate of 100% for the fear/neutral classification. Therefore, the suggested Verhulst-based approach was supremely talented in emotion classification and analysis using eye-blinking signals. Conclusion: The novel biomarkers set the scene for designing a simple accurate emotion recognition system. Additionally, this experiment could fortify the territory of ocular affective computing, and open a new horizon for diagnosing or treating various emotion deficiency disorders.
Implementation of Medicines Pricing Policies in Ghana: The Interplay of Policy Content, Actors’ Participation, and Context
Authors: Koduah Augustina , Baatiema Leonard , Kretchy Irene A. , Agyepong Irene Akua , Danso-Appiah Anthony , de Chavez Anna Cronin , Ensor Timothy , Mirzoev Tolib
Published: October 2023

Background: Implementing medicines pricing policy effectively is important for ensuring equitable access to essential medicines and ultimately achieving universal health coverage. However, published analyses of policy implementations are scarce from low- and middleincome countries. This paper contributes to bridging this knowledge gap by reporting analysis of implementation of two medicines pricing policies in Ghana: value-added tax (VAT) exemptions and framework contracting (FC) for selected medicines. We analysed implications of actor involvements, contexts, and contents on the implementation of these policies, and the interplay between these. This paper should be of interest, and relevance, to policy designers, implementers, the private sector and policy analysts. Methods: Data were collected through document reviews (n=18), in-depth interviews (n=30), focus groups (n=2) and consultative meetings (n=6) with purposefully identified policy actors. Data were analysed thematically, guided by the four components of the health policy triangle framework. Results: The nature and complexity of policy contents determined duration and degree of formality of implementation processes. For instance, in the FC policy, negotiating medicines prices and standardizing the tendering processes lengthened implementation. Highly varied stakeholder participation created avenues for decision-making and promoted inclusiveness, but also raised the need to manage different agendas and interests. Key contextual enablers and constraints to implementation included high political support and currency depreciation, respectively. The interrelatedness of policy content, actors, and context influenced the timeliness of policy implementations and achievement of intended outcomes, and suggest five attributes of effective policy implementation: (1) policy nature and complexity, (2) inclusiveness, (3) organizational feasibility, (4) economic feasibility, and (5) political will and leadership. Conclusion: Varied contextual factors, active participation of stakeholders, nature, and complexity of policy content, and structures have all influenced the implementation of medicines pricing policies in Ghana.
How the Stringency of the COVID-19 Restrictions Influences Motivation for Adherence and Well-Being: The Critical Role of Proportionality
Authors: Waterschoot Joachim , Morbée Sofie , Bergh Omer Van den , Yzerbyt Vincent , Raemdonck Eveline , Brisbois Marie , Schmitz Mathias , Klein Olivier , Luminet Olivier , Oost Pascaline Van , Vansteenkiste Maarten
Published: October 2023

Background: The stringency of the measures taken by governments to combat the COVID-19 pandemic varied considerably across countries and time. In the present study, we examined how the proportionality to the epidemiological situation is related to citizens’behavior, motivation and mental health. Methods: Across 421 days between March 2020 and March 2022, 273,722 Belgian participants (Mage = 49.47; 63.9% female; 33% single) completed an online questionnaire. Multiple linear mixed regression modeling was used to examine the interaction between the epidemiological situation, as indicated by the actual hospitalization numbers, and the stringency index to predict day-to-day variation in the variables of interest. Results: Systematic evidence emerged showing that disproportional situations, as opposed to proportional situations, were associated with a clear pattern of maladaptive outcomes. Specifically, when either strict or lenient measures were disproportional in relation to the epidemiological situation, people reported lower autonomous motivation, more controlled motivation and amotivation, less adherence to sanitary rules, higher perceived risk of infection, lower need satisfaction, and higher anxiety and depressive symptoms. Perceived risk severity especially covaried with the stringency of the measures. At the absolute level, citizens reported the highest need satisfaction and mental health during days with proportional lenient measures. Conclusion: Stringent measures are not per se demotivating or compromising of people’s well-being, nor are lenient measures as such motivating or enhancing well-being. Only proportional measures, that is, measures with a level of stringency that is aligned with the actual epidemiological situation, are associated with the greatest motivational, behavioral, and mental health benefits.