bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of Medications With Lower Odds of Typical COVID-19 Symptoms: Cross-Sectional Symptom Surveillance Study (Preprint)
Authors: Urbach Dietmar , Awiszus Friedemann , Leiß Sven , Venton Tamsin , Specht Alexander Vincent De , Apfelbacher Christian
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread across the globe, the search for an effective medication to treat the symptoms of COVID-19 continues as well. It would be desirable to identify a medication that is already in use for another condition and whose side effect profile and safety data are already known and approved.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different medications on typical COVID-19 symptoms by using data from an online surveillance survey.

METHODS

Between early April and late-July 2020, a total of 3654 individuals in Lower Saxony, Germany, participated in an online symptom-tracking survey conducted through the app covid-nein-danke.de. The questionnaire comprised items on typical COVID-19 symptoms, age range, gender, employment in patient-facing healthcare, housing status, postal code, previous illnesses, permanent medication, vaccination status, results of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and antibody tests for COVID-19 diagnosis, and consequent COVID-19 treatment if applicable. Odds ratio estimates with corresponding 95% CIs were computed for each medication and symptom by using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Data analysis suggested a statistically significant inverse relationship between typical COVID-19 symptoms self-reported by the participants and self-reported statin therapy and, to a lesser extent, antihypertensive therapy. When COVID-19 diagnosis was based on restrictive symptom criteria (ie, presence of 4 out of 7 symptoms) or a positive RT-PCR test, a statistically significant association was found solely for statins (odds ratio 0.28, 95% CI 0.1-0.78).

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals taking statin medication are more likely to have asymptomatic COVID-19, in which case they may be at an increased risk of transmitting the disease unknowingly. We suggest that the results of this study be incorporated into symptoms-based surveillance and decision-making protocols in regard to COVID-19 management. Whether statin therapy has a beneficial effect in combating COVID-19 cannot be deduced based on our findings and should be investigated by further study.

CLINICALTRIAL

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00022185; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00022185; World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform U1111-1252-6946
Efficacy and Safety of Medicines Targeting Neurotrophic Factors in the Management of Low Back Pain: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Rizzo Rodrigo R N , Ferraro Michael C , Wewege Michael A , Cashin Aidan G , Leake Hayley B , O’Hagan Edel T , Jones Matthew D , Gustin Sylvia M , McAuley James H
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. Most people with LBP receive the diagnosis of nonspecific LBP or sciatica. Medications are commonly prescribed but have limited analgesic effects and are associated with adverse events. A novel treatment approach is to target neurotrophins such as nerve growth factor (NGF) to reduce pain intensity. NGF inhibitors have been tested in some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in recent years, showing promise for the treatment of chronic LBP; however, their efficacy and safety need to be evaluated to guide regulatory actions.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of medicines targeting neurotrophins in patients with LBP and sciatica.

METHODS

In this systematic review, we will include published and unpublished records of parallel RCTs and the first phase of crossover RCTs that compare the effects of medicines targeting neurotrophins with any control group. We will search the CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, EU Clinical Trials Register, and WHO International Clinical Registry Platform databases from inception. Pairs of authors will independently screen the records for eligibility, and we will independently extract data in duplicate. We will conduct a quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis) with the studies that report sufficient data and compare the medicines of interest versus placebo. We will use random-effects models and calculate estimates of effects and heterogeneity for each outcome. We will assess the risk of bias for each study using the Cochrane Collaboration tool, and form judgments of confidence in the evidence according to GRADE recommendations. We will use the PRISMA statement to report the findings. We plan to conduct subgroup analyses by condition, type of medication, and time point. We will also assess the impact of a potential new trial on an existing meta-analysis. Data from studies that meet inclusion criteria but cannot be included in the meta-analysis will be reported narratively.

RESULTS

The protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework on May 19, 2020. As of December 2020, we have identified 1932 records.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis will assess the evidence for the efficacy and safety of NGF inhibitors for pain in patients with nonspecific LBP and sciatica. The inclusion of new studies and unpublished data may improve the precision of the effect estimates and guide regulatory actions of the medications for LBP and sciatica.

CLINICALTRIAL

Open Science Framework; https://osf.io/b8adn/

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/22905
Acceptance of Telerheumatology by Rheumatologists and General Practitioners in Germany: Nationwide Cross-sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Muehlensiepen Felix , Knitza Johannes , Marquardt Wenke , Engler Jennifer , Hueber Axel , Welcker Martin
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The worldwide burden of musculoskeletal diseases is increasing. The number of newly registered rheumatologists has stagnated. Primary care, which takes up a key role in early detection of rheumatic disease, is working at full capacity. COVID-19 and its containment impede rheumatological treatment. Telemedicine in rheumatology (telerheumatology) could support rheumatologists and general practitioners.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to investigate acceptance and preferences related to the use of telerheumatology care among German rheumatologists and general practitioners.

METHODS

A nationwide, cross-sectional, self-completed, paper-based survey on telerheumatology care was conducted among outpatient rheumatologists and general practitioners during the pre-COVID-19 period.

RESULTS

A total of 73.3% (349/476) of survey participants rated their knowledge of telemedicine as unsatisfactory, poor, or very poor. The majority of survey participants (358/480, 74.6%) answered that they do not currently use telemedicine, although 62.3% (291/467) would like to. Barriers to the implementation of telemedicine include the purchase of technology equipment (182/292, 62.3%), administration (181/292, 62.0%), and poor reimbursement (156/292, 53.4%). A total of 69.6% (117/168) of the surveyed physicians reckoned that telemedicine could be used in rheumatology. Surveyed physicians would prefer to use telemedicine to communicate directly with other physicians (370/455, 81.3%) than to communicate with patients (213/455, 46.8%). Among treatment phases, 64.4% (291/452) of participants would choose to use telemedicine during follow-up. Half of the participants would choose telecounseling as a specific approach to improve rheumatology care (91/170, 53.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Before COVID-19 appeared, our results indicated generally low use but high acceptance of the implementation of telerheumatology among physicians. Participants indicated that the lack of a structural framework was a barrier to the effective implementation of telerheumatology. Training courses should be introduced to address the limited knowledge on the part of physicians in the use of telemedicine. More research into telerheumatology is required. This includes large-scale randomized controlled trials, economic analyses, and the exploration of user preferences.
A Mental Health Surveillance System for the General Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Protocol for a Multiwave Cross-sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: BinDhim Nasser F , Althumiri Nora A , Basyouni Mada H , Alageel Asem A , Alghnam Suliman , Al-Qunaibet Ada M , Almubark Rasha A , Aldhukair Shahla , Ad-Dab'bagh Yasser
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 outbreak can potentially be categorized as a traumatic event. Public health surveillance is one of the cornerstones of public health practice, and it empowers decision makers to lead and manage public health crises and programs more effectively by providing timely and useful evidence.

OBJECTIVE

This paper presents the protocol for a study that aims to identify, track, and monitor trends in the population in Saudi Arabia at risk of major depressive disorders and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This study utilizes continuous, cross-sectional, national-level mental health screening via computer-assisted phone interviews, conducted in four waves on a monthly basis (between May and August 2020). Arabic-speaking adults, aged ≥18 years, and living in Saudi Arabia were recruited via a random phone list. This surveillance system used the proportional quota sampling technique to achieve an equal distribution of participants, stratified by age and gender, and region, within and across the 13 administrative regions of Saudi Arabia. A sample size of 4056 participants per wave was calculated to achieve enough power to detect changes in mental health status. The questionnaire includes the Arabic version of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to measure depressive symptoms and the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) to measure anxiety. In addition, it will collect data on sociodemographic variables and potential risk factors.

RESULTS

Study recruitment began in May 2020. The data analysis was completed in October 2020, and the final report is expected to be published by the end of December 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

Monitoring the population’s mental health status during the COVID-19 pandemic will inform decision makers of any potential deterioration in mental health on a national level and among subgroups, including across regions, age groups, and gender groups. It will allow decision makers to recognize issues and intervene sooner. It will also provide valuable scientific data to help understand the effects of epidemics and pandemics on mental health. As far as we know, this is the only study that attempts to monitor the mental health status of the general population on a monthly basis.

CLINICALTRIAL

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/23748
Autoimmune Hepatitis in COVID-19 Pandemic: An Underlying Condition or A Life Defining Condition? (Preprint)
Authors: Vuppalanchi Vahin , Green Kelsey , Gelow Kayla , Vuppalanchi Raj , Lammert Craig
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

It is currently unknown if patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and cirrhosis on immunosuppression are at high risk for severe COVID-19 illness. The study aims were to examine the differences in known risk factors and AIH-related factors in those who experienced symptoms consistent with COVID-19 illness versus those who did not.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims were to examine the differences in known risk factors and AIH-related factors in those who experienced symptoms consistent with COVID-19 illness versus those who did not

METHODS

An invitation to complete a COVID-19 specific questionnaire was electronically promoted four times between April 28th and May 16th of 2020, and posted four separate times to well-established AIH patient social media cohorts. Eligibility criteria for survey participants included age ≥ 18 years, United States residency, and an AIH diagnosis by a physician. A total of 478 survey responses were received, and 420 were eligible for the study.

RESULTS

Symptoms consistent with COVID-19 illness were reported in 11% (n=48) with three patients requiring hospitalizations. BMI >40 kg/m2 (23% vs. 10%, P = 0.01) and exposure to house (33% vs. 3%, P = 0.0001) or work (38% vs. 17%, P = 0.02) contacts with COVID-19 illness were factors found significantly higher in the group with symptoms. The presence of cirrhosis or use of steroid or immune suppressants was not significantly different between the symptomatic and non-symptomatic groups. Worsening fatigue (45% vs. 30%, P = 0.06), anxiety (89% vs. 70%, P = 0.08), and itch (40% vs. 18%, P = 0.03) were more common among AIH patients reporting COVID-19 symptoms compared to those withoutBMI >40kg/m2 and exposure to contacts with COVID-19 illness but not cirrhosis or immunosuppression were associated with increased risk of COVID-19 illness in patients with AIH.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI >40kg/m2 and exposure to contacts with COVID-19 illness but not cirrhosis or immunosuppression were associated with increased risk of COVID-19 illness in patients with AIH.

CLINICALTRIAL

n/a
Innatist and Interactionist Learning Approaches of Elementary School Students’ Language Acquisition
Authors: Mulyani Petra Kristi
Published: August 2020

Language acquisition starts in childhood. Oral language is the initial language to learn. Within it, lies norms to make language functional. Children start to function the language through communication. Communication provides an identity that shapes them into different settings. As language acquisition is unique and individual, experts have been studying to interpret it. There are at least three theorists of language acquisition. They are a behaviorist, innatist, and interactionist. Experts are debating on which theory provides the most appropriate approaches for the students. The discussion will compare innatist and interactionist approaches to the students’ first and second language acquisition. It describes how the educational program would be like when using innatist and interactionist learning approaches. There are also critiques on innatist and interactionist approaches. A suggestion is provided to strategically integrate both approaches to understand language acquisition process in both first and second language students.
Postangiography Increases in Serum Creatinine and Biomarkers of Injury and Repair
Authors: Liu Caroline , Mor Maria K. , Palevsky Paul M. , Kaufman James S. , Thiessen Philbrook Heather , Weisbord Steven D. , Parikh Chirag R.
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives

It is unknown whether iodinated contrast causes kidney parenchymal damage. Biomarkers that are more specific to nephron injury than serum creatinine may provide insight into whether contrast-associated AKI reflects tubular damage. We assessed the association between biomarker changes after contrast angiography with contrast-associated AKI and 90-day major adverse kidney events and death.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We conducted a longitudinal analysis of participants from the biomarker substudy of the Prevention of Serious Adverse Events following Angiography trial. We measured injury (kidney injury molecule-1, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, IL-18) and repair (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, uromodulin, YKL-40) proteins from plasma and urine samples at baseline and 2–4 hours postangiography. We assessed the associations between absolute changes and relative ratios of biomarkers with contrast-associated AKI and 90-day major adverse kidney events and death.

Results

Participants (n=922) were predominately men (97%) with diabetes (82%). Mean age was 70±8 years, and eGFR was 48±13 ml/min per 1.73 m2; 73 (8%) and 60 (7%) participants experienced contrast-associated AKI and 90-day major adverse kidney events and death, respectively. No postangiography urine biomarkers were associated with contrast-associated AKI. Postangiography plasma kidney injury molecule-1 and IL-18 were significantly higher in participants with contrast-associated AKI compared with those who did not develop contrast-associated AKI: 428 (248, 745) versus 306 (179, 567) mg/dl;P=0.04 and 325 (247, 422) versus 280 (212, 366) mg/dl;P=0.009, respectively. The majority of patients did not experience an increase in urine or plasma biomarkers. Absolute changes in plasma IL-18 were comparable in participants with contrast-associated AKI (−30 [−71, −9] mg/dl) and those without contrast-associated AKI (−27 [−53, −10] mg/dl;P=0.62). Relative ratios of plasma IL-18 were also comparable in participants with contrast-associated AKI (0.91; 0.86, 0.97) and those without contrast-associated AKI (0.91; 0.85, 0.96;P=0.54).

Conclusions

The lack of significant differences in the absolute changes and relative ratios of injury and repair biomarkers by contrast-associated AKI status suggests that the majority of mild contrast-associated AKI cases may be driven by hemodynamic changes at the kidney.
Pengaruh Biaya Produksi, Biaya Promosi dan Volume Penjulan terhadap Laba Pada Perusahaan Manufaktur yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode Tahun 2015-2017
Authors: Yuda I Made Ari , Sanjaya I Ketut Puja Wirya
Published: August 2020

This research aims to analyze the effect of Production Costs, Promotion Costs and Sales Volume on Profit in manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The data analysis method used is the Analysis of Multiple Linear Regression. The sample used amounted to 35 randomly selected companies. The independent variables in this research are production costs, promotion costs, and sales volume. The dependent variable is company profit. The results show that partially (t test) the production cost variable with a significance value of 0.016 is smaller than 0.05, which means that production costs have a significant positive effect on company profits. Promotional cost variables with a significance level of 0.015 are smaller than 0.05, which means that promotion costs have a significant positive effect on company profits. And the sales volume variable with a significance value of 0.041 is smaller than 0.05, which means that the sales volume variable has a significant positive effect on corporate earnings.

Penelitian ini betujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh Biaya Produksi, Biaya Promosi dan Volume Penjualan terhadap Laba pada perusahaan manufaktur yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia. Metode analisis data yang digunakan yaitu Analisis Regresi Linier Berganda. Sampel yang digunakan berjumlah 35 perusahaan yang terpilih secara acak. Variabel independen dalam penelitian ini adalah biaya produksi, biaya promosi, dan volume penjualan. Variabel dependen adalah laba perusahaan. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa secara parsial (uji t) variabel biaya produksi dengan nilai signifikani 0,016 lebih kecil dari 0,05 yang berarti bahwa biaya produksi berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap laba perusahaan. Variabel biaya promosi dengan tingkat signifikansi 0,015 lebih kecil dari 0,05 yang berarti bahwa biaya promosi berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap laba perusahaan. Serta variabel volume penjualan dengan nilai signifikansi 0,041 lebih kecil dari 0,05 yang berarti bahwa variabel volume penjulan berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap laba perusahaan.
Pengaruh Nilai Tukar (Kurs), Inflasi dan Tingkat Suku Bunga Tabungan terhadap Volume Tabungan Masyarakat pada Bank Umum Pemerintah di Indonesia (Periode 2013-2017)
Authors: Yanti Ni Kadek Rita , Jayawarsa A. A. Ketut , Pertama I Gde Agung Wira
Published: August 2020

This study entitled The Effect of Exchange Rate (Exchange), Inflation, and Interest Rates on Savings Against the Volume of Public Savings in Government Commercial Banks in Indonesia for the period 2013-2017. The formulation of the problem: How the Effect of Exchange Rate (Exchange), Inflation, and Interest Rate Savings Against the Volume of Public Savings at Government Commercial Banks in Indonesia Period 2013-2017 simultaneously and partially. The purpose of this study are: To analyze the effect of Exchange Rate (Exchange ), Inflation, and Interest Rate Savings Against the Volume of Public Savings in Government Commercial Banks in Indonesia Period 2013-2017 simultaneously and partially. This research was conducted at the Government Commercial Bank through the website www.bi.go.id and www.ojk.go.id. The analytical tool used is Multiple Linear Regression Analysis, F Test (F-test), and t Test (t-test), before multiple linear regression analysis is carried out descriptive analysis of data and Classical Assumption Test, Results obtained from regression multiple linear is Y = 13,069 + 0,591 X1 + 0,040 X2 + 0,843 X3.
Southern Yemeni Pharmacy Dispensers ' Understanding, Attitudes and Perceived Barriers Related to Pharmaceutical Care
Authors: Alawi Shuhd , Al-Abd Nazeh , Rageh Ali , Badulla Wafa F.S. , Alshakka Mohammed
Published: August 2020

Background: Pharmaceutical care (PC) is the value of a practice that includes recognizing and solving medication therapy issues to improve patient outcomes. Studies regarding this issue in Yemen are very limited.

Objectives: The study aims to assess the perception of community pharmacists to the concept of Pharmaceutical care and the obstacles that limit the provision of pharmaceutical care.

Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study of community pharmacy dispensers (CPDs) was conducted among pharmacists and pharmacy technicians working in community pharmacies in different areas of South Yemen from September 2019 until December 2019. The structured self-administered questionnaires consist of four sections dealing with the demographics of participants and their understanding of the concept of pharmaceutical care and their attitudes and obstacles to the implementation of pharmaceutical care in Yemen. The collected data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0

Results: A total of Two-hundred pharmacists were included in this study. The result revealed that there were a reasonable number of experts (over 5 years' experience) and educated pharmacists( Diploma and bachelor’s degree) available for counseling patients about specific issues in the community pharmacies. Interestingly, all the respondents had good knowledge of pharmaceutical care and the majority of the pharmacists (87.5%) had a favorable attitude toward pharmaceutical care and their role in the health care system. The overall results relating to the perceived frequency of community pharmacy services provision was lower than (50%) in most statements. The result indicated a gap in the community pharmacists' communication with the patients. There are several barriers impedes the active and effective involvement of community pharmacists such as; insufficient communication with physicians, lack of physical space for pharmaceutical care, the slow introduction of pharmacists’ law, and others.

Conclusion: The results revealed that pharmacists' understanding of the pharmaceutical care concept is good despite that there was no real implementation of pharmaceutical care. Even though they had positive attitudes towards the concept but there were many barriers to the effective application.

Keywords: Pharmaceutical Care Concept; Community Pharmacists; South Yemen
Formulation, Development and Evaluation of Uncoated Bilayer Tablet of Anti-Hypertensive Agents
Authors: Gandhi Kunjan , Shah Sunil Kumar , Tyagi C K , Budholiya Prabhakar , Pandey Harish
Published: August 2020

The present research work was carried out to Formulate and evaluation of bilayer tablet dosage form for the treatment of Hypertension.The objective of this study to compare the specific characteristics of Metoprolol [beta selective (cardio selective) adrenoreceptor blocking agent] and Hydrochlorothiazide (Thiazide Diuretics]) in order to design stable formulation. It can be concluded that bilayer tablet were successfully formulated to achieve immediate release of Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)  and tailored release of Metoprolol (MPL)by using Dual Release Drug Absorption System(DUREDAS technology).Both drugs were found to be stable in Bilayer tablet formulation and were found to be stable for few months. This bilayer tablet dosage form increases the stability which may reduce loss and cost of formulation. It improves the benefits of producer, retailer, and patients. Recently, greater attention has been focused on development of bilayer tablet formulations. Over the past 30 years, the expenses and complications involved in marketing new drug entities have increased with concomitant recognition of therapeutic advantages of conventional drug delivery system. Several pharmaceutical companies are currently developing bi-layer tablets, for a variety of reasons: patent extension, efficient pharmacological effect, better patient compliance, etc. Bilayer tablet is becoming new approach for the successful drug delivery system and for better stability in combination. Bilayer tablets can be primary option to avoid chemical incompatibilities between APIs by physical separation.

Keywords: Bilayer tablet, DUREDAS Technology, Antihypertensive, Metoprolol, Hydrochlorthiazide
Adolescent brain and nicotine
Authors: Del Ciampo Luiz Antonio , Del Ciampo Ieda Regina Lopes
Published: August 2020

Adolescence is a period of transition between childhood and adulthood that involves major changes in development in the physical, psychological, social and neurobiological domains. During this phase of life, multiple physical and emotional events occur throughout the body, markedly in the central nervous system, regulated by neurohormones, which are fundamental for human development, responsible for changes in thoughts, attitudes and behaviors that culminate in complete maturity for a laborious and reproductive life. Due to the lability of the neurological tissue in this period, external aggressions by means of chemical substances can cause serious and lasting effects. Nicotine is one of the substances considered legal and that more easily the adolescent comes into contact early, and can cause many harm to current and future health. This article presents some characteristics of the development of the adolescent's nervous system and the deleterious actions that can be caused by nicotine in its various forms of social presentation.

Keywords: Adolescence – nicotine – smoking – nicotine addiction
Comparative extraction, phytochemical screening and in vitro biological activities of Eclipta prostrata extract
Authors: Khan Zafar Alam , Khare Salaj , Dubey B.K.
Published: August 2020

Medicinal plants possess therapeutic potential and are used to treat various diseases around the world. Eclipta prostrate (L.) is a medicinal herb that has extensive application in the native medicinal system. In any therapeutic activity chemical constituents play an important role. Eclipta prostrata has been investigated in this study for its antioxidant, antimicrobial and antidiabetic activity in vitro. The well-known research protocol available in the literature established qualitative analysis of the different phytochemical constituents and quantitative analysis of total phenol and flavonoids. The hydroalcoholic extracts of the leaves and seeds of Eclipta prostrata exhibited significant and dose-dependent antioxidant activity including ability to donate electron. To analyze the antimicrobial activity, Leaves hydroalcoholic extracts and Eclipta prostrate seeds were tested against two selected strains using a well-diffusion method and showing significant inhibitory action against all the strain tested. In addition, the dose-dependent α-amylase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of acarbose, leaves, and seed extract was found to be 364.89μg/ml and 438.43μg/ml, respectively, indicating that Eclipta prostrate is a promising source as an herbal medicine.

Keywords: Eclipta prostrate, Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antidiabetic Activity.
A Case Report on Iactrogenic Cushing Syndrome with Scabies and Oral Candidiasis
Authors: Faizan Md Abdullah , Baleeqhuddin Mohammed , Ali Salman Mir
Published: August 2020

Cushing syndrome is a condition characterized by high blood levels of cortisol or other exogenous compounds of glucocorticoids. This can be iatrogenic or endogenous cortisol secretion, due to the either an adrenal tumor or hyper secretion of adrenotropic hormone by the pituitary gland. Due immunosuppression patient are prone to more infectious diseases. Here the patient is diagnoses with oral candidiasis and scabies. Clinical investigation was carried out and laboratory investigations like Cortisol level in morning and evening, complete blood picture. He was provided with treatment of hydrocortisone, anti-fungal agents, anti-parasitic agents and skin moisturizer.

Keywords: Iactrogenic Cushing syndrome, Candidiasis, Scabies, Cortisol, Corticosteroid.
Therapies under Investigation for Treatment of Covid-19: A Review
Authors: Adewumi Odunayo Ayodeji , Singh Vijender , Singh Gunjan
Published: August 2020

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection, more commonly referred to as COVID-19, has rapidly developed into a worldwide pandemic with a significant health burden. At the time of this research there are no approved pharmacological treatments or preventative therapeutic strategies in place to combat the infection. However, globally, hundreds of clinical studies that aim to discover effective COVID-19 treatments are ongoing. This article summarises the rationale behind several of these interventional trials, including evidence from in vitro studies, and early results to provide an insight into the global response. As patients are being enrolled in clinical trials across the UK, some of the safety and practical considerations for the investigational medicines that pharmacists are most likely to encounter in practice are discussed as part of this review.

Keywords: coronavirus; SARS-CoV-2; COVID-19; 2019-nCoV; clinical trial; remdesivir; favipiravir; hydroxychloroquine; lopinavir; ritonavir; corticosteroids; interferons.
Nephroprotective activity of ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark against acetaminophen induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats
Authors: Quyamuddin MD , Kumar Pawan , Kumar Sokindra , HAQUE MD RAFIUL
Published: August 2020

Objective: To investigate the protective activity of ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark (EECZB) against acetaminophen induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats.

Methods: Wistar albino rats (150-200 g) were divided into six groups and toxicity was induced by acetaminophen (750 mg/kg) for 10 days. 100 and 200 mg/kg of ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark and 100 mg/kg of silymarin as a reference standard was treated to rats 2 h before acetaminophen administration. Various biochemical parameters like serum urea, serum creatinine, uric acid and total protein levels and antioxidant activity were determined. Histopathological analyses of kidney injury were also determined.

Result: Treatment with ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark (100, 200 mg/kg, bw) significantly (p˂0.001, p˂0.01) decreased serum urea and serum creatinine as compared with acetaminophen rats. Decreased levels of uric acid and total protein were also significantly restored with extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark treatment. Silymarin significantly (p˂0.001) decreased serum urea and serum creatinine as compared with acetaminophen rats. It is also significantly restored the altered levels of SOD, CAT and GSH in kidney tissue. Apart from these, extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark treatment also reduced histopathological alteration induced by acetaminophen in kidney.

Conclusion: It was observed that ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark has a significant nephroprotective activity against acetaminophen induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats.

Keywords: Cinnamomum zeylanicum, acetaminophen, nephroprotective activity.
Supervising Learning Disability in Children through Ayurveda Therapy
Authors: Alone Yogita Sureshrao , Bamnote Swati G.
Published: August 2020

Learning Disability (LD) is an invisible disability predictable by a few, afflicting many and causing high degree of impact. Since it has an important bearing on academic function, it carries high degree of distress in the Indian society where failure is offensive. A childhood disorder is written off by difficulty in certain skills such as reading or writing in child with normal intelligence. It can be lifetime conditions that, in some cases, affect many parts of a children's life: school or work, daily routines, family life, and sometimes even friendships and play. In some people, many overlying learning disabilities may be apparent. Other people may have a single, remote learning problem that has little impact on other areas of their lives. This paper illustrates the various types of learning disability, symptoms and the root cause. Various effective Ayurveda treatments for learning disability are proposed here. Aim of this paper is to elaborate the role and benefits of Ayurveda in the society. Now days, Ayurveda is playing an important role both in physical and mental health.

Keywords: Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Auditory Processing Disorders, Visual Processing Disorders, Ayurveda Treatment.
Impact of Cigarette Smoking on Sperm Parameters of Infertile Men in Center of Algiers (Capital of Algeria)
Authors: Itatahine Amina , Demmouche Abbassia , Maï H , Khalloua Z.C. , Ferrag D. , Bekhadda H. , Bensaid I.
Published: August 2020

Background : Cigarette smoking has negative effects on male fertility. Toxins from tobacco smoking can potentially affect sperm development and function, with a negative effect on semen parameters. In fact, the components of cigarette smoke pass through the blood-testis barrier and thus induce an alteration of sperm parameters and nucleus quality of the spermatozoa. The aim is to determine a diffence between tobbaco and no tobbaco patient and semen parameters. This article aimed to assess the relationship between smoking and male infertility.

Subject and Methods : this is retrospective study focused on the effects of smoking on semen analyses.  377 men (165 non-smokers, 212  smokers) with infertility for at least 1 year were evaluated between  Mars  and  November 2018, in center of algiers (capital of Algeria). Sperm characteristics (concentration, motility, morphology, and volume) were detemined.

Results: Sperm concentration, percentage motility and morphology were significantly lower in an infertile Smokers group than the infertile Nonsmokers group. We also observed that the infertility duration were significantly increased (p<0.05) in accordance with the age in an infertile Smokers group.  Our study shows that cigarette smoking is associated with reduced sperm count and motility.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that cigarette smoking has an overall negative effect on semen parameters. Our study suggests that men should be advised to abstain from smoking in order to improve reproductive outcomes.

Keywords: smoking, semen, male infertility, sperm, humans
The Water Mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) of Isparta Province, Turkey
Authors: Durucan Furkan , Boyacı Yunus Ömer
Published: August 2020

Numerous studies on water mites have been carried out by scientists to date from different parts of Turkey. The total number of known water mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia) of Turkey is 335 species, in 62 genera and 25 families (Erman et al., 2019). The first hydrachnid mite record “Hydryphantes parmulatus” from Isparta is reported by Boyaci and Özkan in (2001). After this study, there have been some studies that had been done in the district of Isparta. But the most comprehensive study which is a TUBITAK project was performed by (Boyaci et al., 2010a) in the Turkish Lakeland, including Isparta.
Effect of Partial Replacement of Fish Meal with Fermented Soybean Meal on Growth, Feed Efficiency, Body Composition, Amount of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Diet and Intestine in Carp (Cyprinus carpio L. 1758)
Authors: Yigit Nalan Özgür , Arafatoğlu Emrullah , Yasar Sulhattin
Published: August 2020

This trial was conducted to determine the effects of feeding a diet containing fermented soybean meal with whey on growth performance, body composition, hepatosomatic index (HSI), and viscerosomatic index (VSI) of carp. Fermented soybean meal (FSM) was used to replace fish meal (FM) protein in diets for juvenile carp (Cyprinus carpio) at rates of 10% (FSM10), 20% (FSM20), 30% (FSM30), 40% (FSM40) and 50% (FSM50). The control diet contained no fermented soybean meal. All experimental diets were prepared as isonitrogenous and isocaloric. The feeding trial was conducted in 18 glass aquaria. At the beginning of the experiment, 30 fish (average weight 1.66±0.14 g) were randomly stocked into each aquarium with 3 replications per treatment. At the end of the experiment, the highest final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate were obtained in carp fed with FSM20 group. However, growth parameters and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of fish fed with diets containing fermented soybean meal up to 50% of fish meal protein were similar to those of the fish fed the control diet. There were no significant differences between body compositions, HSI, and VSI of all groups. Fermentation with whey of soybean meal increased the number of lactic acid bacteria in diet. However, lactic acid bacteria levels in the intestine not changed with the use of fermented soybean meal in the diet. The results of this experiment were showed that fermented soybean meal with whey can be replaced by up to 50% of fish meal protein in diets for juvenile carp.
Asociación de los factores motivacionales y el desempeño laboral del tecnólogo médico en radiología
Authors: Guzmán-Narciso Guillermo Alex , Sánchez-García Waynner , Placencia-Medina Maritza Dorila , Silva-Valencia Javier
Published: August 2020

El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la asociación entre los factores motivacionales y el desempeño laboral, en los tecnólogos médicos en el área de radiología. Para esto se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, analítico correlacional, en el cual se utilizaron como instrumentos de recolección de datos el «Test de evaluación de factores motivacionales» (para medir los factores motivacionales según F. Herzberg) y la «Ficha de Evaluación del desempeño laboral» (para medir el desempeño laboral de los participantes, según evaluación de su jefatura). Posteriormente, se determinó la asociación entre los FM y el desempeño laboral. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó el programa Microsoft Excel, programa estadístico Stata v.16.0 y la correlación de Pearson. La población y la muestra estuvo compuesta por N=77 y n=64 participantes, respectivamente. Entre los factores motivacionales más resaltantes fueron el crecimiento profesional, relaciones con los compañeros, logro y seguridad laboral, con puntajes promedio de 9.015 ± 1.923, 8.812 ± 2.259, 8.406 ± 2.060 y 8.203 ± 2.520, respectivamente. A su vez, el desempeño laboral obtenido fue regular (7.81 %), bueno (28.13 %) y muy bueno (64.06 %). Con respecto a la asociación existente entre factores motivacionales y desempeño laboral, de los 15 factores motivacionales estudiados, los valores de mayor relevancia fueron obtenidos por «seguridad laboral» (r: 0.2511, p=0.04) y «relaciones con el jefe» (r: -0.2508, p=0.04). Se concluye que Los factores motivacionales «seguridad laboral» y «relaciones con el jefe» tienen una asociación significativa con el desempeño laboral en los TM del área de radiología. Donde se evidenció que, a mayor priorización de los factores motivacionales de las relaciones con el jefe, menor es el nivel de desempeño laboral; y que contrariamente, a mayor priorización de los factores motivacionales, mayor es el nivel de desempeño laboral.
Modelo de gestión de equipos virtuales en la ejecución de proyectos académicos colaborativos
Authors: Borrero-Puentes Nicolás , Alcalá-Zarate Luisa Fernanda
Published: August 2020

Al estar inmersos en la era del conocimiento, es de vital importancia que los profesionales, en especial los ingenieros, tengan una formación integral donde la academia sea el principal actor que proponga actividades que permitan actuar y pensar globalmente, pues esto será la clave del crecimiento de las naciones y de la industria local. Por tal motivo, esta investigación buscó desarrollar un modelo de gestión de equipos virtuales que permitió ejecutar proyectos académicos colaborativos entre la Universidad Santo Tomás (USTA) y el Tecnológico de Costa Rica (TEC). Para ello se hizo un prepilotaje que dio a conocer las variables más importantes en este tipo de ejercicios, de las cuales destacaron la comunicación, el tiempo, el trabajo colaborativo y el manejo de las TIC. Seguidamente, se hizo una búsqueda en bases de datos como Scopus, Web Of Science y Google Académico, y se encontró que las metodologías ágiles y tradicionales en proyectos son necesarias para la estructuración y flexibilidad del mismo. Finalmente, se identificó que los individuos, los procesos y la tecnología gestan nuevos conocimientos que benefician una comunidad en concreto, potenciando así sus habilidades y transformando debilidades. De este modo, la vinculación de estos espacios en la academia hizo que los estudiantes desarrollaran una autonomía en sus procesos de aprendizaje, adquiriendo metodologías que serán de gran utilidad en la vida laboral. Adicionalmente, se pudo simular el ambiente real que viven las empresas transnacionales, lo que ayudó a consolidar y generar un panorama holístico de las actividades que realizan. Lo anterior favorece a cada uno de los involucrados, pues sus conocimientos se vieron fuertemente potenciados, y responde al problema que existe entre lo teórico y la praxis, donde existe una gran brecha que cerrar.
Fallos de papel
Authors: Cifuentes-Chaparro Sneither Efraín
Published: August 2020

Las reflexiones del presente artículo pretenden demostrar que -independientemente de su grado de cumplimiento- las sentencias de restitución de tierras juegan un rol de importancia respecto de la legitimación del paradigma transicional porque contienen una validez auto referencial con significación de ser la joya de la corona de reparación a las víctimas en Colombia. Para ello, se presenta una comprensión crítica del desplazamiento forzado en el marco del conflicto armado interno, y haciendo uso de herramientas teóricas del Análisis Crítico del Discurso, se expone cómo se han producido y reproducido ciertas prácticas discursivas frente a la población desplazada forzadamente, tanto desde el sector institucional como no gubernamental, que se replican en la política de restitución de tierras.

 Por último, desde un enfoque de Investigación Acción Participativa, se desarrolla un estudio de uno de los casos pioneros de la política de restitución, a fin de verificar que las sentencias de restitución de tierras representan y reproducen un orden discursivo con eficacia simbólica sobre los derechos de las víctimas, aún si solamente se limitan a solemnizar una relación legal-formal de propiedad.
Disparidades territoriales y fragmentación regional en Colombia
Authors: Botero Ospina María Elena
Published: August 2020

Este artículo, resultado de investigación, analiza la forma en que el tratamiento diferencial que se les da a las entidades territoriales en Colombia, con arreglo a su producción económica, al tamaño de su población y al rol que juegan en el escenario político nacional, fragmenta regionalmente el país. Para explicar este proceso, se parte del concepto de territorialidad, en su acepción y tratamiento en la geografía política, toda vez que la construcción de imaginarios de barbarie y atraso de las regiones periféricas del país, han justificado históricamente su tratamiento diferencial frente a las demás entidades territoriales, y las han desprovisto de recursos fiscales, orientación de inversión pública y promoción de localización de población y actividades económicas, a pesar de representar más de la mitad del territorio nacional. El objetivo de este trabajo es evidenciar esta situación, señalando la importancia de rescatar el concepto de territorialidad en la gestión y organización político-administrativa de las entidades territoriales en Colombia.
Problematika Terjemahan Al-Qurâ€™an Studi pada Beberapa Penerbitan Al-Qur'an dan Kasus Kontemporer
Authors: Hanafi Muchlis Muhammad
Published: August 2020

The process of translation is beset with problems. On the one hand, translation demands a faithful transfer of the meaning as contained in the source text into the target language, but on the other hand, the process also requires elegance and beauty in theÂ  choice of words and expressions. These obstacles are magnified when the source text in question is the Qurâ€™an, because it is not a man-made creation or a work of fiction or poetry, but the word of God. This article will explore some of these problems with reference to translations of the Qurâ€™an published by the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indone-sia and three other publishers.
Polemik Nasakh dalam Kajian Ilmu Al-Qurâ€™an
Authors: Fawaid Ahmad
Published: August 2020

This article explores an important discipline in Qurâ€™anic sciences, namely nasikh-mansukhÂ  (the abrogator and the abrogated), referring to the abrogation of certain Qurâ€™anic verses.Â  Although Muslim scholars are in dispute over the exact meaning and implications of the meaning of abrogationÂ  (naskh)Â  in the Qurâ€™an, nevertheless there are some points of agreement.Â  Neither ide either completely rejects the concept of abrogation, or vice versa, and their differences are not non-negotiable.Â  In some cases, the two sides will arrive at the same conclusionÂ  in that they will both admit the existence of the concept ofÂ  naskh (abrogation) in the Qurâ€™an, but will disagree on its meaning. One side will interpret naskh as complete cancellation and erasure, while the other side tends to interpret it as implying a delay in the implementation (or rather, evolution) of Islamic law (shariâ€˜ah). Thus one side admits of intra-Qur'anic abrogation, while the other only admits of abrogation in extra-Qur'anic contexts.
Studi Kasus tentang Idah dalam Tafsir Berbahasa Bugis Karya MUI Sulsel
Authors: Yusuf Muhammad
Published: August 2020

Artikel ini mengulas pandangan ulama Bugis mengenai idah dalam Tafsere Akorang Mabbasa Ogi karya MUI Sulsel. Persoalan idah seringkali mendapat sorotan dari pemerhati jender. Rumusan idah dalam Kompilasi Hukum Islam (KHI) kini menghadapi gugatan atas nama kesamaan jender sehingga idah yang hanya berlaku untuk perempuan kini digugat agar diberlakukan juga untuk laki-laki. Idah harus dilihat pada amanat teks, konteks historis, dan konteks budaya. Teks telah mengatur idah dengan jelas; idah pada masa Rasulullah hanya berlaku bagi wanita. Idah dan ihdad bertujuan memelihara nasab di samping sebagai momentum instrospeksi diri dan mediasi agar tidak terjadi perceraian. Nilai-nilai kearifan budaya Bugis layak menjadi pertimbangan mengenai penetapan masa idah.Kata kunci: idah, ihdad, wanita, jender, budaya Bugis, kepatutan, introspeksi diri