bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrospun Chitosan Nanofibres and its Application
Authors: Palekar-Shanbhag Pradnya , Dalal Amruta , Navale Tejaswini , Mishra Ujala
Published: May 2022

Chitosan is a biopolymer that has been widely used in medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural, cosmetics, food as well as textile and paper industries due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxic and less allergenic nature. In recent times, chitosan has gained much attention for its application in the form of nanofibres. Nanofibres have diameters in the range of 1 to 100 nanometres. Various processing techniques like drawing, template synthesis, phase separation, meltblown technology, bicomponent extrusion, self-assembly and electro spinning are involved in the fabrication of nanofibres. Among these techniques, electro spinning is the most widely and commonly used technique as it generates ultra-thin nanofibres and has the capacity of mass production. This article reviews the process of electro spinning and applications of the nanofibres containing chitosan in the areas of enzyme immobilization, filtration, wound dressing, tissue engineering, drug delivery, catalysis and as analytical system, biosensor and diagnostic aid in detail.
Hyper-Eosinophilic Syndrome with Myocarditis after Inactivated SARSCoV-
2 Vaccination - A Case Study
Authors: Panda Prasan Kumar , Tiwari Ashutosh , Karna Gaurav , Chakrabarti Sankha Shubhra , Kaur Upinder
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

COVID-19 vaccine-induced serious adverse reactions are rare. Hypereosinophilia
syndrome with myocarditis has not been reported earlier following BBV152 vaccine
administration.

Case Presentation:

A young man without any co-morbidities presented with persistent periorbital
swelling along with itchy swelling over fingers, resting tachycardia, and exertional breathlessness
following the first dose of an inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (BBV152, COVAXIN). On investigation,
the patient had elevated blood eosinophils (maximum 21.5% with an absolute eosinophil
count of 2767/mm3) and myocarditis (Lake Louise Criteria). He was successfully treated with steroids
and supportive treatment.

Conclusion:

This is the first reported case of hyper-eosinophilia syndrome after COVAXIN administration.
Prior history of the allergic disease may be a predisposing factor in this case. Hypereosinophilia
can present with variable symptoms. In the current case, myocarditis was present with
persistent resting tachycardia and dyspnea. Steroid and antiallergic drugs may be successful for the
treatment of vaccine-induced hyper-eosinophilia with myocarditis. Increased vigilance is needed
for such adverse events.
ProtPathDB: A Web-based Resource of Parasite Proteases
Authors: Shehzad Sadaf , Pandey Rajan , Sharma Sushmita , Gupta Dinesh
Published: May 2022

Background:

Proteases regulate cell proliferation, cell growth, biological processes, and
overall homeostasis. Several proteases are extensively annotated and well-characterized in pathogenic
organisms such as bacteria, parasites, and microbial species as anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic and antimicrobial.
Several of these proteins are being explored as viable targets for various drug discovery researches
in various microbial diseases. Despite multiple studies on pathogen proteases, comprehensive
information on pathogen proteases is scattered or redundant, if available.

Methods:

We have developed a comprehensive and integrative protease database resource, Prot-
PathDB, for 23 pathogen species distributed among five taxa, Amoebozoa, Apicomplexa, Heterolob
osea, Kinetoplastida and Fungi. ProtPathDB collects and organizes sequences, class division, signal
peptides, localization, post-translational modifications, three-dimensional structure and related structural
information regarding binding sites, and binding scores of annotated proteases.

Results:

The ProtPathDB is publicly available at http://bioinfo.icgeb.res.in/ProtPathDB.

Conclusion:

We believe that the database will be a one-stop resource for integrative and comparative
analysis of pathogen proteases to better understand the functions of the microbial proteases and help
drug discovery efforts targeting proteases.
Melittin Inhibits Growth of Human Osteosarcoma 143B Cells through
Induction of Apoptosis via Suppressing the Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xie Xiaoliang , Li Yumei , Zhu Haixia , Chen Lin , Chen Deta , Lin Shengming , Fan Tianyou
Published: May 2022

Background and Purpose:

Osteosarcoma is the most commonly seen type of primary malignant bone tumors
in children and adolescents. Partial patients with osteosarcoma cannot tolerate the side effects of chemotherapy
drugs. Hence, it is urgent to find anti-osteosarcoma drugs with low side effects. Melittin is an anti-tumor Traditional
Chinese Medicine with low side effects. The purpose of this study was to explore the anti-osteosarcoma effect of melittin
and its possible molecular mechanisms.

Methods:

The effects of melittin on cell growth were detected by CCK-8, clonal formation, and flow cytometry. The
related molecules were also investigated by Real-time PCR and Western blot. A xenograft model in nude mice was
established to observe the effects of melittin on tumor growth and the related molecular expression was detected by
immunohistochemistry.

Results:

Melittin can inhibit the proliferation of osteosarcoma 143B cells, reduce colony formation, and induce apoptosis
while significantly up-regulating the expression of Bax and Caspase-3 and down-regulating the expression of Bcl-2
proteins. Moreover, treatment with melittin significantly reduced the mRNA and protein levels of β-catenin and Wnt/β-
catenin related genes (LRP5, c-Myc, and Survivin) in osteosarcoma 143B cells in vitro. The xenograft model found
that melittin significantly inhibited tumor growth and decreased the protein expression levels of β-catenin and Wnt/β-
catenin related genes in vivo.

Conclusion:

These findings show that melittin could inhibit the growth of osteosarcoma 143B cells, which may be
related to the inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activity and induce apoptosis by up-regulating the ratio of
Bax/Bcl-2 in osteosarcoma 143B cells. Therefore, melittin is a promising anti-tumor drug for the treatment of osteosarcoma.
Advancements in Small Molecule PROTACs Containing Indole/Spiro-fused Oxindole Scaffolds: An Emerging Degrader Targeting Cancers
Authors: Li Xiang , Liu Yanqing , Huang Wei , Xie Xin , Zhu Hongping , Peng Cheng , Han Bo
Published: May 2022

:

Indole and spiro-fused oxindole frameworks widely exist in a variety of natural bioactive products, pharmaceuticals, and drug candidates, featuring unique functions in the regulation of proliferation, infiltration, and metastasis of cancer cells. In recent years, significant progress in proteolysis targeting chimeric (PROTAC) technology that employs ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) to eliminate disease-associated proteins has been witnessed, thus opening a promising avenue to the discovery of new indole-related drugs.

:

In this review, we focus on summarizing the achievements of small molecule PROTACs that involve indole/spirofused oxindole scaffolds in the part of ligands of the protein of interest (POI). Current challenges and future directions in this promising field are discussed at the end of this review. For the convenience of readers, our review is divided into five parts according to the types of target proteins. We hope this review could bring a quick look and some inspiration to researchers in relevant fields.
The Role of Ca2+ Permeable AMPA Receptors in Neurodegeneration,
Neurotoxicity, and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Schröder Nadja , da Silva José Afonso Corrêa
Published: May 2022

It is believed that degenerative conditions that give rise to neurological diseases may share
an abnormal influx of Ca2+, mainly through glutamate receptors. Current research on the glutamatergic
system indicates that the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is not the only receptor permeable
to Ca2+. Under certain conditions, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors
(AMPARs) are able to rapidly and potently mediate a neurotoxic Ca2+ influx. AMPARs are encoded
by four genes designated GluR 1-4. The presence of the edited GluA2 subunit makes the heteromeric
AMPAR impermeable to Ca2+ (CI-AMPAR's). On the other hand, the lack of GluA2 or disruptions
in its post-translational editing result in Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs). In addition
to triggering behavioral changes, the increase in CP-AMPARs is documented in several neurodegenerative,
neuroinflammatory and neurotoxic conditions, demonstrating that AMPAR changes may
play a role in the emergence and evolution of pathological conditions of the central nervous system
(CNS). Seeking to better understand how CP-AMPARs influence CNS neuropathology, and how it
may serve as a pharmacological target for future molecules, in this article, we summarize and discuss
studies investigating changes in the composition of AMPARs and their cellular and molecular effects,
to improve the understanding of the therapeutic potential of the CP-AMPAR in neurodegenerative,
neurotoxic and neuroinflammatory diseases.
Genistein in the Treatment of Hypertension: A Review
Authors: Sigowska Paulina , Zimoch Michał , Baska Aleksandra , Kazik Jakub , Leis Kamil , Grześk Grzegorz
Published: May 2022

Genistein, a natural compound belonging to the group of isoflavones has a confirmed positive effect in such diseases as hormone-dependent cancers, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases, including arterial and pulmonary hypertension. The multiway hypotensive effect is based on vasodilation with simultaneous inhibition of vasoconstriction and RAA interference. It impacts both vascular smooth muscles and endothelium due to its influence on many molecular pathways and peptides; among them: protection against oxidative stress, RhoA/Rho pathway inhibition, enhancing cAMP activation, modification of cellular calcium influx, and the increase of eNOS concentrations. Despite little research on genistein effect on pulmonary hypertension, it seems that the natural compound reduces harmful hypoxia effects and, consequently, inhibits vessels remodelling. In our review, we present mechanisms of lowering blood pressure and juxtapose in vivo research on both animal and human models. On the basis of our results, it might be deduced that the abovementioned isoflavone seems to be a safe and effective hypotensive drug. Its impact on arterial and pulmonary hypertension should be further estimated, both in monotherapy, and in combination treatment.
Applications and Future Outlooks of Hollow Nanomaterials for
Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Mohammad Jafri Nurul Natasha , Jaafar Juhana , Mohamad Nor Nor Azureen , Alias Nur Hashimah , Aziz Farhana , Wan Salleh Wan Norharyati , Yusof Norhaniza , Dzarfan Othman Mohd Hafiz , Rahman Mukhlis A. , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Rahman Roshanida A.
Published: May 2022

Hollow nanomaterials, which emerged from nanotechnology, earned a lot of interest due to
their unique morphology and extensive surface area. This technology has been widely utilized in water
treatment branches such as photocatalysis, membrane technology, and the sorption process. There are
several types of hollow nanomaterials, all of which have the potential to treat contaminated water, including
pollutants, namely heavy metals and organic compounds. Here, we provide a review of the
benefits and downsides of hollow nanomaterials advancement as well as new progress in those fields.
The challenges of using hollow nanomaterials, as well as their prospects, are also discussed.
Influence of Pitting Failure on Dynamic Performance of Herringbone Gear Transmission System Considering Friction Coefficient
Authors: Ren Fei , Wang Dexi , Shi Guiqin , Wang Qi , Wang Ning
Published: May 2022

Background:

Gearboxes are used in many industrial fields. Due to uncontrollable external
factors and inevitable fatigue damage, gearboxes are likely to fail. It has become a major research trend
to collect dynamic signals of gearboxes and develop effective fault diagnosis methods for gearboxes.

Objective:

The purpose of this paper is to study the dynamic characteristics of herringbone gear transmission
(HGT) under different friction coefficients and pitting faults.

Methods:

A virtual prototype model of the system with different friction coefficients and pitting faults
was established jointly with KISSsoft, SolidWorks, and ADAMS. The contact stiffness, penetration coefficient,
damping, and other factors were considered in the model. The contact force and angular acceleration
signals of the Driven gear are collected and analyzed by simulation.

Results:

The increase of friction coefficient results in the increase of contact force and instantaneous
angular acceleration. The modulation side frequency band on both sides of the frequency becomes
dense, and the side frequency band in the frequency domain of angular acceleration becomes sparse.
When pitting failure exists, all dynamic signals show fault characteristics.

Conclusion:

This work provided a theoretical basis for fault diagnosis and gear dynamics research, Due
to many nonlinear factors, the fault diagnosis of the HGT system is relatively difficult. The research results
can quickly diagnose the fault of the HGT system, which makes up for the shortcomings in the
study of the fault diagnosis of the HGT system.
Ultrasmall Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized by
Micellar Approach as a Potential Dual-Mode T1-T2 Contrast Agent
Authors: Varanda Laudemir C. , Beck Watson , Lopes Simone J.S. , Moraes Daniel A. , Santos Natalia M. , S. D. Lino Maria Eduarda
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

A micellar approach is used to synthesize Ultrasmall Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (USPIONs) with an average diameter of 3.4±0.5 nm, suitable for dual-mode T1-T2 contrast agents.

Methods:

Micelles with 3.8 nm, measured by dynamic light scattering, were obtained by self-organizing the surfactant iron(III) dodecyl sulfate (IDS) in 1-octanol. IDS was prepared by replac-ing Na+ cation in sodium dodecyl sulfate molecule, and its critical micelle concentration (CMC) was measured by electrical conductivity. The USPIONs were synthesized in a biphasic system: IDS in octanol (55% above the CMC) and water containing NaBH4.

Results:

A yellow precipitate is immediately formed at the water/alcohol interface, rapidly changes to a black one, and transfers to the aqueous phase. The magnetite phase was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The magnetic behavior shows a major paramagnetic char-acter with a weak ferromagnetic component at 5 K, the latter attributed to the interparticle couplings below its blocking temperature (TB = 35 K). The particles were coated with carboxymethyl dextran, showing an isoelectric point of 2.7 with electrokinetic potential around -30 mV in the physiological pH range. Magnetic relaxation measurements showed relaxivity values r1 = 0.17 mM-1 s-1 and r2 = 1.73 mM-1 s-1 (r2/r1 = 10) in a 3T field. These values infer that the ultrasmall size affects the interac-tions with the protons of the nearby water molecules. The r2 value decreases because the core mag-netization decreases with size; r1 intensifies due to the high surface.

Conclusion:

The results show a system with high colloidal stability, non-cytotoxic, and potential application as T1-T2 dual-mode contrast agents.
Study the quality of drinking water in the holy city of Karbala
Authors: Hussein Hassan Salim , Khalaf Ali Jaafar
Published: May 2022

This study aims to assess the quality of drinking water in Karbala. Furthermore, the quality of tap and bottled water are compared in this study. Materials and method: Physical, chemical, and bacteriological parameters were all measured in the study. The bacteriological test includes a total count of coliform and fecal coliform, which may be detected using standard microbiology procedures. Results: In bottled water, total dissolved salts (TDS), Ca, Cl, and Mg were within acceptable ranges, like that in tap water, the mentioned parameters were within normal ranges except for regions Aborwayah, Al-wend, Al-khayrat and Al-husainia which were beyond the expected value. In terms of bacteriological tests, coliform bacteria were found in bottled water (Al-katara water and Al kafeel) samples with no E. coli bacteria. In the case of tap water samples, the findings revealed that most of the regions (9 out of 12 = 75%) had coliform bacteria growth, so (4 out of 9 = 44. 4%) had E. coli bacterium growth does not comply with the approved standards for drinking water, which must be free of the microbial content of E. .coli and coliform. Conclusion: According to the study, drinking water treatment operations are not up to par, particularly in locations outside of the city center, and bottled water is preferable to tap water for drinking.

Keywords. drink water, coliform, TDS, Chloride, turbidity.
The Incidence of Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase Enzymes and Their Connection to Virulence Genes in Community-Acquired Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Sharba Zahraa A. , Farazdaq Rafeeq Halah
Published: May 2022

In community-acquired urinary tract infections, Klebsiella pneumoniae is considered one of the most common etiological agents. Multidrug resistance and virulence are common in Klebsiella pneumoniae populations. In this study, fifty Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were isolated from urine samples and identified using a vitek 2 compact device. The Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion technique used the antibiotic susceptibility test. According to the findings, approximately [n = 46 (92%)] of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates are multidrug-resistant (MDR). To detect the production of Extended Spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes, the Modified Double Disc Synergy Test (MDDST) was used. The results show that approximately [n=45 (90%)] of the isolates produce ESBLs. The most common ESBL genes (TEM, SHV, and CTX-M) were investigated in isolates. The results show that the SHV gene had the highest prevalence among ESBL genes [n = 34 (68%)], followed by the CTX-M gene [n = 33 (66%)]. while none of the isolates possessed the TEM gene. The virulence factor type 3 fimbriae (MrKD) gene and biofilm (BssS) gene were revealed. The results found that the isolates contain the MrKD gene at [n = 41 (82%)]. At the same time, the results found that the isolates contained the BssS gene at [n =36 (72%)]. The prevalence of Virulence genes within ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates shows that only [n = 3 (6%)] of isolates that are non-ESBL producers carry one or both virulence genes, while [n=41 (82%)] of ESBL-producing isolates contain one or both virulence genes. The prevalence of ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in community patients was high in this research. There may also be a correlation between ESBL production and some virulence factors.

Keywords. Klebsiella pneumoniae; Antibiotic Resistance; Virulence Gene; ESBL; Urinary Tract Infection; CTX-M.
Design of a Remote Coaching Program to Bridge the Gap From Hospital Discharge to Cardiac Rehabilitation: Intervention Mapping Study
Authors: Keessen Paul , van Duijvenbode Ingrid CD , Latour Corine HM , Kraaijenhagen Roderik A , Janssen Veronica R , Jørstad Harald T , Scholte op Reimer Wilma JM , Visser Bart
Published: May 2022

Background

Remote coaching might be suited for providing information and support to patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) in the vulnerable phase between hospital discharge and the start of cardiac rehabilitation (CR).

Objective

The goal of the research was to explore and summarize information and support needs of patients with CAD and develop an early remote coaching program providing tailored information and support.

Methods

We used the intervention mapping approach to develop a remote coaching program. Three steps were completed in this study: (1) identification of information and support needs in patients with CAD, using an exploratory literature study and semistructured interviews, (2) definition of program objectives, and (3) selection of theory-based methods and practical intervention strategies.

Results

Our exploratory literature study (n=38) and semistructured interviews (n=17) identified that after hospital discharge, patients with CAD report a need for tailored information and support about CAD itself and the specific treatment procedures, medication and side effects, physical activity, and psychological distress. Based on the preceding steps, we defined the following program objectives: (1) patients gain knowledge on how CAD and revascularization affect their bodies and health, (2) patients gain knowledge about medication and side effects and adhere to their treatment plan, (3) patients know which daily physical activities they can and can’t do safely after hospital discharge and are physically active, and (4) patients know the psychosocial consequences of CAD and know how to discriminate between harmful and harmless body signals. Based on the preceding steps, a remote coaching program was developed with the theory of health behavior change as a theoretical framework with behavioral counseling and video modeling as practical strategies for the program.

Conclusions

This study shows that after (acute) cardiac hospitalization, patients are in need of information and support about CAD and revascularization, medication and side effects, physical activity, and psychological distress. In this study, we present the design of an early remote coaching program based on the needs of patients with CAD. The development of this program constitutes a step in the process of bridging the gap from hospital discharge to start of CR.
Virtual Reality Intervention for Managing Apathy in People With Cognitive Impairment: Systematic Review
Authors: Ho Ka Ying , Cheung Po Mang , Cheng Tap Wing , Suen Wing Yin , Ho Hiu Ying , Cheung Daphne Sze Ki
Published: May 2022

Background

Apathy is common in people with cognitive impairment. It leads to different consequences, such as more severe cognitive deficits, rapid functional decline, and decreased quality of life. Virtual reality (VR) interventions are increasingly being used to manage apathy in individuals with cognitive impairment. However, reports of VR interventions are scattered across studies, which has hindered the development and use of the interventions.

Objective

This study aimed to systematically review existing evidence on the use of VR interventions for managing apathy in people with cognitive impairment with regard to the effectiveness, contents, and implementation of the interventions.

Methods

The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed. The PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases were systematically searched for experimental studies published up to March 13, 2022, that reported the effects of VR interventions on apathy in older adults with cognitive impairment. Hand searching and citation chasing were conducted. The results of the included studies were synthesized by using a narrative synthesis. Their quality was appraised by using the Effective Public Health Practice Project quality assessment tool. However, because the VR interventions varied in duration, content, and implementation across studies, a meta-analysis was not conducted.

Results

A total of 22 studies were identified from the databases, of which 6 (27%) met the inclusion criteria. Of these 6 studies, 2 (33%) were randomized controlled trials, 1 (17%) was a controlled clinical trial, and 3 (50%) were quasi-experimental studies. Individual studies showed significant improvement in apathy and yielded within-group medium to large effect sizes. The level of immersion ranged from low to high. Minor adverse effects were reported. The VR content mostly included natural scenes, followed by city views and game-based activities. A background soundtrack was often used with natural scenes. Most (5/6, 83%) of the studies were conducted in a residential care setting and were implemented by health care professionals or researchers. Safety precautions were taken in most (5/6, 83%) of the studies.

Conclusions

Although preliminary evidence shows that VR interventions may be effective and feasible for alleviating apathy in people with cognitive impairment, the methodological limitations in the included studies make it difficult to reach a firm conclusion on these points. The implementation of the interventions was highlighted and discussed. More rigorous studies are encouraged.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021268289; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021268289
Virtual Reality Intervention for Managing Apathy in People With Cognitive Impairment: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Ho Ka Ying , Cheung Po Mang , Cheng Tap Wing , Suen Wing Yin , Ho Hiu Ying , Cheung Daphne Sze Ki
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Apathy is common in people with cognitive impairment. It leads to different consequences, such as more severe cognitive deficits, rapid functional decline, and decreased quality of life. Virtual reality (VR) interventions are increasingly being used to manage apathy in individuals with cognitive impairment. However, reports of VR interventions are scattered across studies, which has hindered the development and use of the interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to systematically review existing evidence on the use of VR interventions for managing apathy in people with cognitive impairment with regard to the effectiveness, contents, and implementation of the interventions.

METHODS

The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed. The PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases were systematically searched for experimental studies published up to March 13, 2022, that reported the effects of VR interventions on apathy in older adults with cognitive impairment. Hand searching and citation chasing were conducted. The results of the included studies were synthesized by using a narrative synthesis. Their quality was appraised by using the Effective Public Health Practice Project quality assessment tool. However, because the VR interventions varied in duration, content, and implementation across studies, a meta-analysis was not conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 22 studies were identified from the databases, of which 6 (27%) met the inclusion criteria. Of these 6 studies, 2 (33%) were randomized controlled trials, 1 (17%) was a controlled clinical trial, and 3 (50%) were quasi-experimental studies. Individual studies showed significant improvement in apathy and yielded within-group medium to large effect sizes. The level of immersion ranged from low to high. Minor adverse effects were reported. The VR content mostly included natural scenes, followed by city views and game-based activities. A background soundtrack was often used with natural scenes. Most (5/6, 83%) of the studies were conducted in a residential care setting and were implemented by health care professionals or researchers. Safety precautions were taken in most (5/6, 83%) of the studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Although preliminary evidence shows that VR interventions may be effective and feasible for alleviating apathy in people with cognitive impairment, the methodological limitations in the included studies make it difficult to reach a firm conclusion on these points. The implementation of the interventions was highlighted and discussed. More rigorous studies are encouraged.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021268289; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021268289
Research on Digital Technology Use in Cardiology: Bibliometric Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Yeung Andy Wai Kan , Kulnik Stefan Tino , Parvanov Emil D , Fassl Anna , Eibensteiner Fabian , Völkl-Kernstock Sabine , Kletecka-Pulker Maria , Crutzen Rik , Gutenberg Johanna , Höppchen Isabel , Niebauer Josef , Smeddinck Jan David , Willschke Harald , Atanasov Atanas G
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Digital technology uses in cardiology have become a popular research focus in recent years. However, there has been no published bibliometric report that analyzed the corresponding academic literature in order to derive key publishing trends and characteristics of this scientific area.

OBJECTIVE

We used a bibliometric approach to identify and analyze the academic literature on digital technology uses in cardiology, and to unveil popular research topics, key authors, institutions, countries, and journals. We further captured the cardiovascular conditions and diagnostic tools most commonly investigated within this field.

METHODS

The Web of Science electronic database was queried to identify relevant papers on digital technology uses in cardiology. Publication and citation data were acquired directly from the database. Complete bibliographic data were exported to VOSviewer, a dedicated bibliometric software package, and related to the semantic content of titles, abstracts, and keywords. A term map was constructed for findings visualization.

RESULTS

The analysis was based on data from 12,529 papers. Of the top 5 most productive institutions, 4 were based in the United States. The United States was the most productive country (4224/12,529, 33.7%), followed by United Kingdom (1136/12,529, 9.1%), Germany (1067/12,529, 8.5%), China (682/12,529, 5.4%), and Italy (622/12,529, 5.0%). Cardiovascular diseases that had been frequently investigated included hypertension (152/12,529, 1.2%), atrial fibrillation (122/12,529, 1.0%), atherosclerosis (116/12,529, 0.9%), heart failure (106/12,529, 0.8%), and arterial stiffness (80/12,529, 0.6%). Recurring modalities were electrocardiography (170/12,529, 1.4%), angiography (127/12,529, 1.0%), echocardiography (127/12,529, 1.0%), digital subtraction angiography (111/12,529, 0.9%), and photoplethysmography (80/12,529, 0.6%). For a literature subset on smartphone apps and wearable devices, the Journal of Medical Internet Research (20/632, 3.2%) and other JMIR portfolio journals (51/632, 8.0%) were the major publishing venues.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital technology uses in cardiology target physicians, patients, and the general public. Their functions range from assisting diagnosis, recording cardiovascular parameters, and patient education, to teaching laypersons about cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This field already has had a great impact in health care, and we anticipate continued growth.
Acceptability of an mHealth Family Self-management Intervention (myFAMI) for Pediatric Transplantation Families: Qualitative Focus (Preprint)
Authors: Lerret Stacee Marie , Flynn Erin , White-Traut Rosemary , Alonso Estella , Mavis Alisha M , Jensen M Kyle , Peterson Caitlin G , Schiffman Rachel
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Around 1800 pediatric transplantations were performed in 2021, which is approximately 5% of the annual rate of solid organ transplantations carried out in the United States. Effective family self-management in the transition from hospital to home-based recovery promotes successful outcomes of transplantation. The use of mHealth to deliver self-management interventions is a strategy that can be used to support family self-management for transplantation recipients and their families.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to evaluate the acceptability of an mHealth intervention (myFAMI) that combined use of a smartphone app with triggered nurse communication with family members of pediatric transplantation recipients.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of qualitative data from family members who received the myFAMI intervention within a larger randomized controlled trial. Eligible participants used the app in the 30-day time frame after discharge and participated in a 30-day postdischarge telephone interview. Content analysis was used to generate themes.

RESULTS

A total of 4 key themes were identified: (1) general acceptance, (2) positive interactions, (3) home management after hospital discharge, and (4) opportunities for improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Acceptability of the intervention was high. Family members rated the smartphone application as easy to use. myFAMI allowed the opportunity for families to feel connected to and engage with the medical team while in their home environment. Family members valued and appreciated ongoing support and education specifically in this first 30 days after their child’s hospital discharge and many felt it contributed positively to the management of their child’s medical needs at home. Family members provided recommendations for future refinement of the app and some suggested that a longer follow-up period would be beneficial. The development and refinement of mHealth care delivery strategies hold potential for improving outcomes for solid organ transplantation patients and their families and as a model to consider in other chronic illness populations.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03533049; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03533049
THE INFLUENCE OF CHLORPROMAZINE HYDROCHLORIDE ON THE THERMOTROPIC BEHAVIOR OF DIMYRISTOYL PHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE LIPOSOMES AS REVEALED BY DIFFERENTIAL SCANNING CALORIMETRY
Authors: FARAH FARAH HAMAD
Published: May 2022

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of the model cationic, amphiphilic, drug chlorpromazine hydrochloride (CPZ-HCl) on the thermotropic behavior of dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) liposomes, using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The effect of sonication, charged lipids and CPZ-HCl at concentrations known to cause anesthesia on the enthalpy (ΔHt), entropy (ΔSt), phase transition (Tc), pre-transition (pre-TC) and half-height width (HHW) of DSC thermograms were examined.
Methods: The experiments conducted, using the Perkin Elmer (DSC-2C), include the effect of a wide range of CPZ-HCl concentrations on ΔHt, ΔSt, Tc, pre-Tc and HHW of DSC thermograms of DMPC liposomes. The effect of sonication on ΔHt, ΔSt, Tc and HHW of DSC thermograms of DMPC/CPZ-HCl liposomes as a function of sonication time. The effect of both positively charged stearyl amine (ST) and negatively charged diacetyl phosphate (DCP) lipids on ΔHt, ΔSt and Tc of DMPC/CPZ-HCl liposomes. In addition, the effect of CPZ-HCl at concentrations known to cause anesthesia on ΔHt, ΔSt. and Tc of DMPC liposomes in the presence and absence of ST and DCP in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4), was also carried out.
Results: Using DSC, CPZ-HCl concentrations as low as 1×10-7M were observed to alter the gel-liquid crystalline phase transition and thus to possess a membrane destabilizing effect. CPZ-HCl reduces ΔHt, ΔSt, TC, the pre-TC and increases HHW of DMPC liposomes. ΔHt and ΔSt of DMPC liposomes were observed to decrease with increasing CPZ-HCl concentrations, exhibiting an inflection point at 5×10-5M. ΔHt of DMPC liposomes was observed to decrease linearly in the absence and presence of and CPZ-HCl as a function of sonication time. Both ΔHt and ΔSt of DMPC liposomes were observed to increase in the presence of cationic lipid (ST) and to decrease in the presence of anionic lipid (DCP). ΔSt and Tc of DMPC, DMPC/ST, DMPC/DCP liposomes, were found to decrease as a function of CPZ-HCl concentrations known to cause anesthesia.
Conclusion: Using DSC, CPZ-HCl concentrations, as low as 1×10-7 M were observed to influence the enthalpy, entropy, phase transition, pre-transition and half-height width of DSC thermograms of DMPC liposomes, altering the gel-liquid crystalline phase transition and thus possessing a membrane destabilizing effect. It can also be inferred that CPZ-HCl interacts with both the polar head group and the hydrophobic interior of the phospholipid bilayer. These results could support the hypothesis that the addition of local anesthetics might trigger a change in the lipid surrounding the sodium channel from the gel to the liquid crystalline state, allowing the sodium channel to close with the resulting anesthesia.
NOVEL APPROACHES IN OCULAR DRUG DELIVERY-A REVOLUTION
Authors: KAUSHIK AYUSHI , MAZUMDER RUPA , PADHI SWARUPANJALI , MAZUMDER AVIJIT , BUDHORI RAJAT , MANORMA  , DAS PAUL SWARNALI
Published: May 2022

Conveying the therapeutic agent to the human eye has been a struggling task for formulators and scientists because of the complicated arrangement of the eye. The therapeutic agents needed to deliver the drugs to specific sites of the eye require the crossing of various ocular barriers, which act as hitches for drug delivery. Conventional preparations present in the market do not achieve the desired therapeutic results due to their lower bioavailability, less retention time, or difficulty in reaching the site of action. In a need to overcome the challenges with these preparations, various modern technologies are being applied to address the same with outstanding results. The purpose of the present review is to focus on several innovative approaches, viz., the development of novel ocular drug delivery systems including liposomes, niosomes, nano-wafers, cubosomes, microneedles, dendrimers, and many others, adopted to combat various ocular diseases. In the present review, various novel formulations and drug delivery approaches have been taken into consideration, as developed, and reported by various scientists and researchers working in the field of ocular drug delivery systems.
OMICRON SARS-CoV-2 VARIANT, B.1.1.529: SEVERITY, TRANSMISSION, MUTATION, AND EFFICACY OF CURRENT VACCINES
Authors: SAADH MOHAMED J.
Published: May 2022

The Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) is a variant of SARS-CoV-2 with more than 50 mutations; this led to increase transmissibility or lead to immune escape. Therefore, WHO predicts it to be more dangerous than the previous variant, although it is not as severe as the previous variant. This review aims to provide an overview of SARS-CoV-2 symptoms, severity, mutations, and the effectiveness of treatments and vaccines against this novel coronavirus, as well as the effectiveness of current diagnostic tests.
DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF TASTE MASKED ORO-DISINTEGRATING TABLETS OF ITOPRIDE HCl USING DIFFERENT CO-PROCESSED EXCIPIENTS: PHARMACOKINETICS STUDY ON RABBITS
Authors: ABDELMONEM REHAB , ELTAHAN MAHMOUD , EL-NABARAWI MOHAMED
Published: May 2022

Objective: This study aimed to mask the bitter taste of itopride HCl using the solid dispersion method by solvent evaporation technique and formulate an oral disintegrating tablet (ODT) by direct compression method using different co-processed excipients.
Methods: Nine formulae of solid dispersion were prepared to mask the bitter taste of Itopride HCl using Eudragit EPO® and mannitol at different ratios after compatibility studies using infrared spectroscopy (IR). The prepared formulae were subjected to different physicochemical characterization, in vivo taste evaluation, and drug content. The best-selected formulae were used to formulate 10 different ODTs. The prepared tablets were evaluated through hardness, drug content, in vivo-in vitro disintegration, IR, wetting time, and finally, dissolution studies. The selected formula was subjected to a pharmacokinetic study compared to the brand.
Results: F5, drug: Eudragit EPO® (1:2) and F8, Drug: Mannitol: Eudragit EPO® (1:1:2) formulae were selected as the best taste-masked formulae based on in vivo taste evaluation, which were used to formulate ten ODTs. The dissolution rate for the prepared ODTs was rapid if compared with the ordinary oral tablets. Statistical significance was obtained using one-way ANOVA among ODT formulae. The optimum tablet Prosolv SMCC 90® based formula (T10) had friability 0.15, wetting time 4±0.35 sec, in vitro dissolution 100.08±0.028% just after 2 min, where the in vitro disintegration time and in vivo disintegration time were 4±0.12 sec and 12±0.049 sec respectively. The relative bioavailability of ODT containing Prosolv SMCC 90®was increased significantly compared to the brand.
Conclusion: The obtained results successfully confirmed the potential of the promising Prosolv SMCC 90® based formula (T10) to produce rapid onset action and in-time drug release instead of ordinary tablets containing itopride HCl and that provide by-passing the excessive degradation of drug by first-pass metabolism increasing the oral bioavailability from 60% of marketed drug Ganaton® to 88% for the prepared ODT (T10).
Event Scheduler
Authors: Jain Naman , Abhishaik Shaik
Published: May 2022

Abstract: Internet and smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives in today's society, due to their easy accessibility. Without a doubt, the internet has taken over our life and the internet and web-based technologies can be used for a variety of things. As technology advances in today's environment, we may discover a plethora of societally useful applications which help us to proceed with our daily activities. The application of such technologies to event scheduling and management has the potential to improve current procedures. Web-based apps are one of the most important and fastest-growing aspects of the events and meetings business. Applications are useful for streamlining event management, delivering information and content, recording data and analytics, and connecting participants and organizers. Attracting the maximum number of participants is a big problem for any event organizers (e.g., event planning and marketing businesses, venues), as it has a significant impact on the event's success and, as a result, the projected rewards (e.g., income, artist/brand publicity). Through this paper, we would be suggesting a technological solution that would simplify the process of event scheduling and hosting. Keywords: Event Scheduling, Hosts, Participants, QR-Code, Web Application, Database, Super-Admin, Technology, Server.
Residuos sólidos de la cuenca del río Lurín, Lima, Perú
Authors: Vélez-Azañero Armando , Luque Sandoval Naty , Vilchez Aguilar Daniela
Published: May 2022

Los residuos sólidos representan una de las principales fuentes de contaminación en el río Lurín, considerada una de las cuencas más pobladas y con mayor índice de pobreza en Lima, por tanto, es importante estudiar estos componentes para fortalecer los planes ambientales en el distrito. El objetivo de esta investigación fue caracterizar los residuos sólidos del río Lurín (Lima, Perú), adaptando la clasificación ASTM-DS231. Se registraron 4391 unidades, donde predominaron los plásticos, y el mayor peso fue atribuido a la categoría Otros no combustibles. Los dos primeros bloques de muestreo fueron los más similares, por lo que podría aplicarse la misma estrategia para manejar la basura en estas zonas. El tercer y cuarto bloque fueron los más representativos en función al peso, presentando mayor cantidad de viviendas y desagües domésticos, lo que demuestra que el aumento de la urbanización tiene un impacto directo en la generación de residuos. La mayor cantidad de residuos sólidos en la cuenca baja del río Lurín está representada por los plásticos, principalmente de un solo uso, los que vienen afectando estas zonas por su fácil dispersión en los cuerpos de agua, su alta demanda, y falta de educación ambiental.
Penasihat Ahli dalam Perdagangan Valuta Asing Menggunakan Batas Keuntungan dan Kerugian Dinamis
Authors: Wahab Abdi , Budiyanto M. Arif
Published: May 2022

Perdagangan di pasar valuta asing memiliki volume perdagangan yang sangat besar dan menjadi salah satu pasar yang diminati oleh para pedagang besar maupun kecil. Untuk mendapatkan keuntungan di pasar valuta asing diperlukan analisis yang baik dan tepat dan mengikuti strategi yang telah dibuat. Agar membantu dalam memudahkan analisis dan transaksi dibuatlah penasihat ahli berdasarkan strategi yang direncanakan oleh pedagang. Banyak penasihat ahli yang menggunakan batas keuntungan dan kerugian secara statis, sehingga membuat transaksi tidak optimal. Untuk itu, penelitian ini mecoba membuat sebuah penasihat ahli dengan batas keuntungan dan kerugian secara dinamis berdasarkan acuan indikator. Metodologi yang digunakan pada penelitian ini terdiri dari analisis strategi yang digunakan, pembuatan penasihat ahli, dan pengujian penasihat ahli. Dari hasil pengujian secara back testing, penasihat ahli dengan batas keuntungan dan kerugian dinamis mendapatkan hasil yang lebih baik dibandingkan dengan penasihat ahli yang memiliki batasan statis. Walaupun penasihat ahli yang diusulkan mendapatkan hasil yang menguntungkan, masih terdapat beberapa kesalahan analisis untuk melakukan transaksi. Untuk pengembangan penasihat ahli ini, bisa ditambahkan sebuah indikator yang dapat mengetahui kekuatan dari tren, untuk memfilter transaksi agar mengikuti tren yang sedang terjadi di pasar.
Study on fertility status of patients with uterine fibroids for fertility needs after microwave ablation
Authors: lin xiaoliang , Zhang Jing , Dong xuejuan , Zhang bingsong , liu rui , Yu Jie , Liu Fangyi , Liang Ping , Yu Xiaoling , Han zhiyu
Published: May 2022

Objective: To study the pregnancy and its prognosis and explore
influence factors on pregnancy after Uterine fibroids (UFs) treatment by
microwave ablation (MWA). Design：A prospective observational study.
Setting: Department of Interventional Ultrasound in a single centre in
China. Population: Patient of UFs with fertility desiring. Methods: Each
patient with fertility desiring underwent MWA for UFs from August 2010
to September 2020 was interviewed regularly. Main Outcome Measures:
Pregnancy situation and outcomes, multiple factors affecting pregnancy.
Results:81 women were enrolled in the study. Among them, there were 45
patients with 50 pregnancies. The pregnancy rate was 55.56% (45/81),
and the median conception time was 18 months (1–60 months). Natural and
artificially assisted pregnancy rates were 48.15% (39/81) and 7.41%
(6/81), respectively. The number of pregnancies that ended in
spontaneous and induced abortion were 11 and 9, respectively. And 25
pregnancies resulted in deliveries, with 1 of patients having two
deliveries. Cesarean sections were performed by 76% (19/25) of the
gravida, and 24% (6/25) opted for a vaginal delivery. All the 25
newborns survived and were in good health at the end of the follow-up. 1
case had placental abruptions at 26 weeks gestation, while the others
had no serious complications during the perinatal period. For UFs
patients with fertility requirements, the patient’s age, history of
spontaneous abortion and fibroid types are relevant factors affecting
pregnancy after MWA. Conclusions: MWA could be considered a promising
clinical treatment for women with UFs and plans for future pregnancy.
Prevalence and risk factors for acquired long QT syndrome in the emergency department: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Fernandes Diogo Filipe , Camões Guilherme , Ferreira Diana , Queijo Carolina , Fontes-Ribeiro Carlos , Gonçalves Lino , Pina Rui , António Natália
Published: May 2022

Aims: Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a rare heterogeneous syndrome that may
be congenital or, more frequently, acquired (aLQTS). The real-world
prevalence of acquired LQTS in the emergency department is unknown.
Methods: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of this
syndrome in the emergency room and to identify risk factors.
Electrocardiograms (ECG) of 5056 consecutively patients admitted in the
ER of a tertiary hospital between January 28th and March 17th of 2020
were reviewed. All patients with aLQTS were included. Clinical data with
a focus on QT prolonging drugs and clinical factors were recorded.
Statistical comparison was made between the groups with and without QT
interval greater than 500ms. Results: A total of 390 ECGs with prolonged
QTc were recognized, corresponding to a prevalence of aLQTS at admission
of 7.95%. Patients with aLQTS were more commonly men (53.1%) with an
age of 73.6 ± 14.7 years old and QTc interval of 502.14 ± 32.2ms. Only
20% of these patients with aLQTS were symptomatic. No ventricular
arrhythmias were recorded. Patients with QT interval greater than 500ms
were more frequently female (p<0.001) and were more frequently
on QT prolonging drugs (p=0.002). Main contributing factor was intake of
antibiotics (odds ratio (OR) 3.497) followed by female gender (OR 2.518)
and antipsychotics (OR 1.960). Conclusions: Acquired LQTS is
particularly prevalent in the ER. Female patients on antibiotics and
antipsychotics are at particularly high risk. Efforts must be made to
avoid, detect and treat aLQTS as early as possible.