bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ten Year Study of Maternal Mortality at a Teaching Hospital to Assess What More Can be Done
Authors: Saxena Bharti , Siddiqui Shagufta , Mohanpuria Shankar Lal , Shukla Umashankar , Singh Raguvir
Published: May 2022

Background: Our country has achieved 77% reduction in maternal mortality rate (MMR) over last three decades. Most of the tertiary care institutions record high MMR because they face the influx of women in critical condition needing caesarean deliveries as well as intensive care unit (ICU)-care; thereby increasing the burden of mortality as well as near miss morbidity. The present study is an effort to evaluate the changing needs at the tertiary level of care. Aims and Objectives: Evaluate MMR for the past 10 years, assess causes of death, trend over 10 years against resource up gradation and suggest areas of improvement. Methods: Case records of all maternal deaths over 10 years (2010–2019) at our institute were studied (age, parity, residence, antenatal care booking, causes of death, and admission to death interval). Hospital statistics were obtained for total vaginal births, caesarean sections, high dependency unit–ICU admissions, and resource up gradation over past 10 years. Results: Total live births over 10 year’s period were 106,872 and maternal deaths were 311. Average MMR during 10 years was 291. Maximum deaths occurred in 21–25 years (56.27%), primiparas (58.19%), women from rural areas (68.16%), unbooked/referred cases (91.64%), and postpartum cases (81.67%). Direct causes were responsible for 78.77% and indirect causes for 21.22% deaths. Majority of deaths (80.38%) occurred within 24 h of admission. Conclusion: Upgradation of resources, encouraging early referrals from rural areas, arranging critical care ambulances, and training of manpower in obstetric critical care may bring down MMR at tertiary care hospitals.
Quantitative Estimation of Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activities of Some Selected Wild Tuberous Plants of Odisha, India
Authors: Swain Jugajyoti , Jena Padan Kumar , Jonnalagadda Lavanya , Sahu Jaydeep Kumar , Mishra Sweta
Published: May 2022

Tuberous plants are the source of many useful bioactive compounds. It is suggested that they may protect us against pathogens. Antioxidants play a major role to protect the cell from oxidative stress. The study was designed to examine the antioxidant properties and total phenol contents of methanol and acetone extracts of some common species of Yam found in Odisha, India, namely, Dioscorea belophylla, Dioscorea esculenta, Dioscorea glabra, Dioscorea oppositifolia, Dioscorea tomentosa, Dioscorea wallichii, Dioscorea hamiltonii, and Dioscorea hispida var. daemona. These tuberous plants were collected from peripheral areas of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Khurda, Cuttack, and Dhenkanal districts of Odisha, India. Phenolic compounds, tannin, and saponin are found as prime bioactive compounds in all tuber extracts of selected plants. The antioxidant activities were determined by 1-1-diphenyl-2-pycrilhydrazyne radical scavenging assay and metal chelating activities. The results of antioxidant activities showed their sound scavenging potential. The present study highlights the nutraceutical values of wild tuberous plants.
An Overview of Epidemiology and Diagnostic Techniques for Emerging and Re-emerging Viral Infections
Authors: Singh Karanbir , Kesavan Anup Kumar , Thayil Seema Madhumal
Published: May 2022

In the past decades, the prevalence of emerging viral infections has escalated and is envisaged to continue to grow in the foreseeable future. More than 17 million people die every year from infectious diseases. The most deadly diseases known to humans so far are caused by emerging and re-emerging viruses such as Influenza, Chikungunya, Ebola, HIV, and the Coronavirus disease 19 outbreak, being the most recent. The clinical prognosis of serious illnesses depends on identification of the infectious agent at the onset. This review outlines the epidemiology and diagnostic techniques used to identify viral pathogens that received particular attention in the recent years. The modern diagnostic tools that are used for identification and confirmation of these disease causing agents such as viral antigen identification, viral culture, nucleic acid analysis, and serology are discussed. While rapid identification of infectious agents, quick diagnosis, and the production of vaccines against a specific virus is possible with advanced laboratory techniques, the limited resources delay the implementation of these techniques. The present need is to understand the importance of early and proper implementation of technological advancements for mitigation of damage caused by infective agents, and the introduction of some novel and appropriate approaches on priority basis in endemic and emerging areas.
Pharmacological Study of Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh) for their possible Antimalarial Activity with Emphasis on Resistance and Resistant Reversal
Authors: Mishra Jai Kumar , Upadhyay Kumud , Visht Sharad , Singh Ramandeep , Kumari Anita , Dara Hareesh , Verma Amit Kumar , Singh Sunita
Published: May 2022

Antimalarial effect of some medicinal plants found in Uttarakhand (India) is least explored by the scientific community locally. Advent of resistance to various antimalarial drugs by plasmodium made malaria more fatal and life-threatening disease. Therefore, present need is to invest more effort and interest in research for antimalarials from medicinal plants. Plasmodium yoelii nigeriensis (PYn) is multi drug resistance malaria parasite known for resistance to chloroquine (CQ), quinine, quinidine, amodiaquine, halofantrine, mepacrine, and mefloquine. The P. yoelii produces 100% infections in animals. Researchers in this study tried to understand the behavior of CQ -resistant plasmodium PYn with CQ, whole plant extracts of Andrographis paniculata (AP) with possibility of their resistance reversal. Wherever, 3–4 times CQ doses are not able to produce sufficient antimalarial effect in resistant PYn. Most of the pure plant extracts are also not able to produce minimal therapeutic response when given alone. Whereas, plant extract shows a better effect when given with minimal dose CQ than alone. AP whole plant hydroalcoholic (HA) extract doses 300 mg/kg when combining CQ 20 mg/kg shows the best effect among the other extracts alone. Parasitemia and red blood cells count parameters significantly improved. Hemoglobin, survival days and weight are benefitted with HA extract then ethanolic extract. Unexpectedly, HA extract at higher dosage 1000 mg/kg produce efficacy then 300 mg/kg dose group. Higher doses of HA extract causes some sort of negative effect on almost all selected parameters even though with ethanolic extract. Present approach of multi-drug dosage supports also supported here in the study with a thought of using antimalarial plant extracts during regular malaria treatment. Genesis of idea of referring standardized plant extract(s) in combination as oral dosage with prophylactic (travelers) malaria and malaria treatment or side-food for malaria will also possible. Positive results may pave a path for inclusion of herbal extracts or herbs as side treatment or resistance-breaker food for malaria.
Effective field theory of fluctuating wall in open systems: from a kink in Josephson junction to general domain wall
Authors: Fujii Keisuke , Hongo Masaru
Published: May 2022

We investigate macroscopic behaviors of fluctuating domain walls in nonequilibrium open systems with the help of the effective field theory based on symmetry.
Since the domain wall in open systems breaks the translational symmetry, there appears a gapless excitation identified as the Nambu-Goldstone (NG) mode, which shows the non-propagating diffusive behavior in contrast to those in closed systems.
After demonstrating the presence of the diffusive NG mode in the (2+1)-dimensional dissipative Josephson junction, we provide a symmetry-based general analysis for open systems breaking the one-dimensional translational symmetry.
A general effective Lagrangian is constructed based on the Schwinger-Keldysh formalism, which supports the presence of the gapless diffusion mode in the fluctuation spectrum
in the thin wall regime.
Besides, we also identify a term peculiar to the open system, which possibly leads to the instability in the thick-wall regime or the nonlinear Kardar-Parisi-Zhang coupling in the thin-wall regime although it is absent in the Josephson junction.
Diseño y validación de contenido de una guía de análisis funcional para población con depresión
Authors: Nieto Capador Darío
Published: May 2022

El objetivo de esta investigación fue establecer el diseño y la validez de contenido de una Guía de Práctica Clínica (GPC) de análisis funcional (AF) para población con trastorno depresivo mayor (TDM). Se realizó por medio de una metodología cuantitativa de tipo instrumental, implementando la técnica de validación por jueces expertos, con la participación de seis jueces con experiencia en psicología clínica y cuatro en análisis del comporta- miento. Resultado de la evaluación de los jueces, se obtuvo un índice de validez de contenido de 0.85, permitiendo establecer la validez de la GPC de análisis funcional para evaluar el TDM. Se concluye que los procedimientos para realizar AF en TDM corresponden con los referentes teórico-prácticos disponibles y con la tradición del enfoque conductual en psicología.Palabras clave: Guía de Práctica Clínica, análisis funcional, depresión, diseño de contenido, validación de contenido.
Психологические основы превенции ВИЧ-инфекции
Authors:   Санкт-Петербургский государственный университет, Шаболтас Алла Вадимовна
Published: May 2022

Монография является переработанным изданием автора (1-е изд., 2015 г., СПб.). В книге представлены анализ биологических, медицинских, психологических и социальных аспектов эпидемии ВИЧ/СПИД; теоретические и прикладные основы превенции рискованного поведения в отношении ВИЧ-инфекции, включая анализ теоретических концепций и подходов к профилактике заболеваний, ассоциированных с поведенческими факторами. В эмпирической части работы приведены результаты уникальных лонгитюдных исследований (Санкт-Петербург) эффективности превентивных поведенческих вмешательств различного уровня, вида и формы по профилактике ВИЧ/СПИД и рискованного поведения в сфере здоровья для различных групп населения. В новое издание монографии автором включена оригинальная концепция психологической превенции ВИЧ-инфекции, разработанная и эмпирически верифицированная с использованием комплексной модели изучения рискованного поведения, связанного с риском заражения ВИЧ-инфекцией и ее распространения, а также превентивных поведенческих технологий, включающая субъективные и объективные маркеры эффективности. В электронном приложении представлены полные тексты сценариев прошедших эмпирическую проверку уникальных превентивных программ по профилактике ВИЧ-инфекции для разных целевых групп, а также приведены полные тексты психодиагностических опросников и шкал с ключами для обработки результатов методик; приводится перечень международных проектов, в рамках которых проводилась разработка и апробация поведенческих вмешательств. Книга адресована широкому кругу специалистов разного профиля — психологам, медикам, социальным работникам, педагогам, преподавателям вузов, а также студентам и аспирантам.
Biofilm thickness restraint carriers enhance free nitrous acid inhibition for partial nitritation
Authors: Schopf Alexander , Christensson Magnus , Piculell Maria , Tian Xin , Delatolla Robert
Published: May 2022

Ammonia is a deleterious pollutant present in municipal wastewater that can be hazardous if released into the environment. There is a need for the development of novel processes to advance ammonium removal technologies. Partial nitritation (PN) and anaerobic ammonia oxidation (anammox) are modern treatment processes that can be combined to provide energy-efficient ammonia removal; however, these processes have been shown to be challenging to implement as a two-stage system. New methods to achieve steady PN need to be discovered. Free nitrous acid (FNA) exposure has been explored as a possible strategy for achieving PN; however, exposure time to FNA and FNA dosage is dependent on the treatment system. For biofilm technologies, such as the moving bed biofilm reactor and biofilm characteristics, including biofilm thickness, can cause inconsistent results. Therefore, this study compares defined maximal biofilm thickness with undefined biofilm thickness and their capacity to achieve PN using FNA. This study found that a defined maximal biofilm thickness designed carrier maintained a thin biofilm capable of achieving PN after FNA exposure while the undefined biofilm thickness designed carrier was not suitable for stable PN.
Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Remaining Challenge
Authors: Mrak Daniel , Bonelli Michael , Radner Helga
Published: May 2022

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, which affects a wide range of organs with variable clinical features. Involvement of the nervous system is a challenging and multifaceted manifestation of the disease, presenting with a broad range of symptoms. Neuropsychiatric lupus (NPSLE) encompasses seven syndromes of the peripheral and 12 of the central nervous system, associated with a high disease burden. Despite advances in the management of SLE, NP manifestations still pose a challenge to clinicians. First, diagnosis and attribution to SLE is difficult due to the lack of specific biomarkers or imaging modalities. Second, therapeutic options are limited, and evidence is mainly based on case reports and expert consensus, as clinical trials are sparse. Moreover, no validated outcome measure on disease activity exists. Current recommendations for treatment include supportive as well as immunosuppressive medication, depending on the type and severity of manifestations. As NPSLE manifestations are increasingly recognized, a broader spectrum of therapeutic options can be expected.
Recursive Feature Elimination-based Biomarker Identification for Open
Neural Tube Defects
Authors: Ganjiwale Anjali , Karthik Kadhir Velu , Rajalingam Aruna , Shivashankar Mallaiah
Published: May 2022

Background:

Open spina bifida (myelomeningocele) is the result of the spinal cord to close completely and is the second most common and severe birth defect. Open neural tube defects are multifactorial, and the exact molecular mechanism of the pathogenesis is not clear due to disease complexity for which prenatal treatment options remain limited worldwide. Artificial intelligence techniques like machine learning tools have been increasingly used in precision diagnosis.

Objective:

The primary objective of this study is to identify key genes for open neural tube defects using machine learning approach that provides additional information about myelomeningocele in order to obtain more accurate diagnosis.

Materials and methods:

Our study reports differential gene expression analysis from multiple datasets (GSE4182 and GSE101141) of amniotic fluid samples with open neural tube defects. The sample outliers in the datasets were detected using principal component analysis (PCA). We report a combination of the differential gene expression analysis with recursive feature elimination (RFE), a machine learning approach to get 4 key genes for open neural tube defects. The features selected were validated using five binary classifiers for diseased and healthy samples: Logistic Regression (LR), Decision tree classifier (DT), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest classifier (RF) and K-nearest neighbour (KNN) with 5-fold cross validation.

Results:

Growth Associated Protein 43 (GAP43), Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Repetin (RPTN) and CD44 are the important genes identified in the study. These genes are known to be involved in axon growth, astrocyte differentiation in the central nervous system, post traumatic brain repair, neuroinflammation and inflammation linked neuronal injuries. These key genes represent a promising tool for further studies in diagnosis and early detection of open neural tube defects.

Conclusion:

These key biomarkers help in diagnosis and early detection of open neural tube defects, thus evaluating its progress and seriousness in diseases condition. This study strengthens previous literature sources of confirming these biomarkers linked with open NTD’s. Thus, among other prenatal treatment options present until now, these biomarkers help in early detection of open neural tube defects which provides success in both treatment and prevention of these defects in advance stage itself.
Potential Roles of 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists in Reducing Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)
Authors: Satiamurthy Raajeswari , Yaakob Nor Syafinaz , Shah Noraida Mohamed , Azmi Norazrina , Omar Marhanis Salihah
Published: May 2022

5-HT3 receptor antagonists corresponding to ondansetron, granisetron,
tropisetron, and palonosetron are clinically accustomed to treating nausea and emesis in
chemotherapy patients. However, current and previous studies reveal novel potentials of
those ligands in other diseases involving the nervous system, such as addiction,
pruritus, and neurological disorders, such as anxiety, psychosis, nociception, and
cognitive function. This review gathers existing studies to support the role of 5-HT3
receptors in CIPN modulation. It has been reported that chemotherapy drugs increase
the 5-HT content that binds with the 5-HT3 receptor, which later induces pain. As also
shown in pre-clinical and clinical studies that various neuropathic pains could be blocked
by the 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, we proposed that 5-HT3 receptor antagonists via 5-
HT3 receptors may also inhibit neuropathic pain induced by chemotherapy. Our review
suggests that future studies focus more on the 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and their
modulation in CIPN to reduce the gap in the current pharmacotherapy for cancer-related
pain.
Investigation of the Anticancer Potential of 2-alkoxycarbonylallyl Esters Against Metastatic Murine Breast Cancer Line 4T1 Targeting the EGFR: A Combined Molecular Docking, QSAR, and Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Obadawo Babatunde Samuel , Oyeneyin Oluwatoba Emmanuel , Owolabi Taoreed Olakunle , Metibemu Damilohun Samuel , Ipinloju Nureni , Fagbohungbe Kehinde Henry , Modamori Helen Omonipo , Olatoye Victor Olanrewaju
Published: May 2022

Background:

The search for novel and potent anticancer drugs is imperative. This present study aims to unravel the mechanisms of action of 2-alkoxyecarbonyl esters using robust model(s) that can accurately predict the bioactivity of novel compounds. Twenty-four potential anticancer 2- alkoxycarbonylallyl ester compounds obtained from the literature were employed in building a 3D-QSAR model.

Objectives:

The objective of this study is to determine the predictive ability of the GFA-based QSAR models and extreme machine learning models and compare them. The lead compounds and newly designed compounds were docked at the active site of a human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase domain to determine their binding modes and affinity.

Methods:

QikProp program and Spartan packages were employed for screening compounds for druglikeness and toxicity. QSAR models were equally used to predict the bioactivities of these molecules using the Material Studio package. Molecular docking of the molecules at the active site of an EGFR receptor, 1M17, was done using Auto dock tools.

Results:

The model of choice, with r2pred (0.857), satisfied the recommended standard for a stable and reliable model. The low value of r2, Q2 for several trials and cRp2 (0.779 ≥ 0.5) and the high value of correlation coefficient r2 for the training set (0.918) and test set (0.849) provide credence to the predictability of the model. The superior inhibition of EGFR displayed by the lead compounds (20 and 21) with binding energies of 6.70 and 7.00 kcalmol-1, respectively, is likely due to the presence of double bonds and α-ester groups. ADMET screening showed that these compounds are highly druggable. The designed compounds (A and B) displayed better inhibition of EGFR.

Conclusion:

The QSAR model used here performed better than the Random Forest Regression model for predicting the bioactivity of these anticancer compounds, while the designed compounds (A and B) performed better with higher binding affinity than the lead compounds. Implementing the developed model would be helpful in the search for novel anticancer agents.
The Importance of Neglected and Underutilized Medicinal Plants from
South America in Modern Pharmaceutical Sciences
Authors: Shahrajabian Mohamad Hesam , Cheng Qi , Sun Wenli
Published: May 2022

The world needs a paradigm change from the current views on many plants to secure future
food and nutrition. Many neglected and underutilized plants, specially medicinal and aromatic plants, are
nutrient dense, appropriate in diversifying diets, provide enough vitamins and micronutrients for people,
high resistant to diseases and pests, and can be adapted in many regions and of course with tremendous
pharmaceutical benefits. Many of the medicinal plant species which were common in traditional medicine
are still neglected and underutilized, especially in developing and under-developing countries. Lack of
attention to these plants means their potential medicinal properties are under exploited and underestimat- ed. The searches focused on publications from 1980 to July 2021 using PubMed, Google Scholar, Science
Direct, and Scopus databases. Review of the literature was carried out using the following keywords,
"medicinal plants", "neglected plants", "underutilized plants", "aromatic plants", "traditional medicine
science", and "South America". In this review article, the authors have focused on medicinal values of
Schinusterebinthifolius, Uncaria tomentosa, Phyllanthusamarus, Astrocaryum aculeatum, Croton cajucara,
Arrabidaea chica, Bauhinia forticata, Copaifera langsdorffii, Cordia verbenacea, Caesalpinia ferrea,
Salix alba L., Casearia sylvestris, Carapa guianensis, Costus spicatus, and Eugenia uniflora L., in
both modern and traditional science. Although many studies have evaluated the biological characteristics
of these plants, little has been done to identify and characterize its chemical components, which is certainly
a niche that requires to be further explored.
New 4-nitro-imidazole-N-glycinyl-hydrazones Designed as Trypanocidal
Analogues of Benznidazole
Authors: Fraga Carlos A.M. , de Alcântara Giulianna P. , Barbosa Juliana M.C. , Salomão Kelly , de Castro Solange L. , Wardell James L. , Low John N. , Wardell Solange M.S.V. , Carvalho Samir A. , da Silva Edson F.
Published: May 2022

Background:

The drugs available for the treatment of Chagas disease are ineffective in its
chronic phase and produce many adverse effects, making the search for new drugs an urgent medical
need.

Objective:

This study aimed to design, synthesize, and evaluate the trypanocidal and cytotoxic profiles of
new 4-nitroimidazole prototypes.

Method:

The new compounds were synthesized in overall yields ranging from 31-to 52% through the
use of classical and reproducible methodologies. Their trypanocidal profile and cytotoxicity were assayed
against trypomastigote forms of T. cruzi and mammalian macrophages, respectively.

Results:

The best trypanocidal activity was evidenced in compounds that present lipophilic and electronegative
substituents, e.g. 4-chlorophenyl derivative (5), with an IC50 = 206.98 μM;

Conclusion:

The new benznidazole N-glycinyl-hydrazone analogues demonstrated a very significant
reduction in the trypanocidal activity compared to benznidazole, which seems to be related to the position
occupied by the nitro group in the imidazole ring.
QSAR Study on the Antitumor Activity of Novel 1,2, 3-Triazole Compounds
based on Topomer Comfa Method
Authors: Wei Qiu Lie , Xing Zhang , Jian Bo Tong
Published: May 2022

Background:

The high mortality rate of cancer is endangering human health, and the research
and development of new anticancer drugs have the attention of scientists worldwide. Sulfonamides have
become the focus of anticancer drug research. 1,2,3-triazole compounds can inhibit the formation of a
variety of tumor cells. Based on the excellent antitumor activity exhibited by the 1,2,3-triazole compound
skeleton, the sulfonamide moiety in the sulfonamide structure can be introduced into the triazole compound
skeleton to obtain highly active anticancer drugs.

Methods:

The Topomer CoMFA method was used to study the three-dimensional quantitative structureactivity
relationship of 58 new 1,2,3-triazole compounds with sulfa groups, and a 3D-QSAR model was
obtained.

Results:

The cross-validation coefficient q2 is 0.545, the non-cross-correlation coefficient r2 is 0. 754, r_pred2 is 0.930, the optimal number of principal components N is 4, and the standard estimation error SEE is 0.319. These results show that the model has good internal and external forecasting capabilities. By searching for the R group in the Topomer search module and combining with the more active groups in the existing molecules, 6 new compounds with theoretically higher anti-HL-60 (leukemia cell line) activity are obtained.

Conclusion:

The prediction result of the Topomer CoMFA model is good, and the statistical verification
is effective. The prediction results of ADMET show that the 6 new compounds meet the drug requirements
and are expected to become potential anti-HL-60 inhibitors, providing guidance for the synthesis of
anti-tumor drugs.
QSAR and DFT Studies of Some Tacrine-Hydroxamate Derivatives as
Inhibitors of Cholinesterase (AChEs) in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Hammoudan Imad , Chtita Samir , Daoui Ossama , Elkhattabi Souad , Bakhouch Mohamed , El Yazidi Mohamed , Siddique Farhan , Riffi-Temsamani Driss
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

This work was devoted to an in silico investigation conducted on twenty-eight
Tacrine-hydroxamate derivatives as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease using DFT and QSAR
modeling techniques.

Methods:

The data set was randomly partitioned into a training set (22 compounds) and a test set (6 compounds).
Then, fourteen models were built and were used to compute the predicted pIC50 of compounds
belonging to the test set.

Results:

All built models were individually validated using both internal and external validation methods,
including the Y-Randomization test and Golbraikh and Tropsha's model acceptance criteria. Then, one
model was selected for its higher R², R²test, and Q²cv values (R² = 0.768, R²adj = 0.713, MSE = 0.304,
R²test=0.973, Q²cv = 0.615). From these outcomes, the activity of the studied compounds toward the main
protease of Cholinesterase (AChEs) seems to be influenced by 4 descriptors, i.e., the total dipole moment
of the molecule (μ), number of rotatable bonds (RB), molecular topology radius (MTR) and molecular
topology polar surface area (MTPSA). The effect of these descriptors on the activity was studied, in particular,
the increase in the total dipole moment and the topological radius of the molecule and the reduction
of the rotatable bond and topology polar surface area increase the activity.

Conclusion:

Some newly designed compounds with higher AChEs inhibitory activity have been designed
based on the best-proposed QSAR model. In addition, ADMET pharmacokinetic properties were carried
out for the proposed compounds, the toxicity results indicate that 7 molecules are nontoxic.
Exploration of Pharmacological Potential of Alpinetin
Authors: Singh Randhir , Singh Dhirendra
Published: May 2022

Secondary metabolites found in plants are a natural source of bioactive chemicals.
These secondary metabolites are vital for the survival of plants and have a number of medicinal
properties, which can be utilised to treat human illnesses. Alpinetin (ALP) is one of the secondary
metabolites which belongs to the Flavonoid category of phytochemicals and is present in
Amomum subulatum Roxb's. Alpinetin has been found to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,
anticancer, hepatoprotective and renoprotective activity, along with several other biological
properties. This review is focused on the exploration of the pharmacological activities of
Alpinetin. ALP is considered a prospective candidate for future clinical investigations due to the
number of therapeutic properties.
The Wider Considerations in Closing Chronic Disease Gaps – Focus on
Heart Failure and Implementation
Authors: Iyngkaran Pupalan , Hespe Charlotte , Hanna Fahad , Horowitz John D , Battersby Malcolm , Nelson Craig , Andrew Sharon , de Courten Maximilian P.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Heart failure (CHF) is predominately a chronic disease. There are overlaps in HF and chronic disease research and care. Chronic disease and HF research is conducted with multiple goals. The overarching goal is “optimized patient outcomes at maximum cost-effectiveness”. Observations and patients, however, can come with many variables; thus, we see gaps in clinical translation. This document discusses an argument for three important gaps common to HF and chronic disease, i.e., screening, self-management, and patient-reported outcomes (PRO), and provides a glance of how it could fit into the evidence tree with a focus. Pertinent arguments for a framework for health services and models of care are provided as a prelude to future consensus.

Methodology:

1) A preliminary literature review to identify a taxonomy for cardiovascular research and 2) a review of the published literature describing the translation of research studies into clinical practice for cardiovascular disorders. We identified a spectrum from observational to large randomized controlled trials to post-marketing studies.

Results and Discussion:

Research design in context to the above gaps are discussed.We then propose 6 steps to facilitate this: 1) Research design; 2) Research application (translation) i. routine ii. challenges; 3. Transforming research to translational level; 4. Funding and infrastructure; 5. CCRE and collaboration; 6. Governance and cost-efficacy.

Conclusion:

1. Implementation research is a neglected area that aims to link research findings to
improved patient outcomes, in an efficient and effective way.
2. Skills required to perform implementation research include a complex interplay of factors.
3. Ways to maximize translational impacts for chronic disease research to clinical practice are described in a CHF context.
Study of the Antihypertensive Effect of Laurus nobilis in Rats
Authors: Eddouks Mohamed , Bouadid Ismail , Amssayef Ayoub
Published: May 2022

Aims:

The study aimed to study the antihypertensive activity of Laurus nobilis.

Background:

Laurus nobilis L. is used to treat hypertension in Morocco.

Objective:

The study was designed to investigate the effect of the aqueous extract leaves of Laurus
nobilis (AELN) on blood pressure.

Materials and Methods:

The antihypertensive and vasorelaxant activities of AELN were pharmacologically
investigated in normotensive and L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. Thereafter,
blood pressure was evaluated, and the ex-vivo vasorelaxant activity of this extract was performed.

Results:

A considerable decrease in blood pressure parameters were observed in L-NAMEinduced
hypertensive rats treated with AELN. The extract induced a vasorelaxant effect on the
aorta precontracted with epinephrine or KCl by inhibiting extracellular Ca2+ entry.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrates that Laurus nobilis aqueous extract exhibits potent antihypertensive
and vasorelaxant activities via inhibiting Ca2+ entry.
Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.: A Review on its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry,
Pharmacological Activities, and Toxicity
Authors: Mouri Nusrat Jahan , Barua Antica , Junaid Md. , Shamsuddin Tahmida , Alam Muhammad Shaiful , Akter Rasheda , Sharmin Tania , Hosen S.M. Zahid
Published: May 2022

Background:

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. (Oleaceae) is a traditional therapeutic plant, highly used in Ayurveda for a wide range of activities, such as anthelmintic, antipyretic, laxative, rheumatism, skin ailments, and sedative.

Aims of the review:

This review aims to furnish up-to-date details on botanical characterization, geographical distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. with the exploitation of future research on more curative treatments as well.

Methods:

The available information was reviewed using different e-tools, including PubMed (National Library of Medicine), ScienceDirect, Wiley, Elsevier, Springer. The scientific name is verified from 'The Plant 'List' (www.theplantlist.org) and 'Kew Royal Botanic 'Gardens' (mpns.kew.org).

Results:

Crude extracts and isolated compounds of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. have been found pharmacologically active as hepatoprotective, anti-leishmaniasis, antiviral, antifungal, antipyretic, antihistaminic, antimalarial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activities it was widely for intermittent fevers and arthritis treatment. The major classes of biologically active compounds are their iridoid, glucosides, essential oils, hydrocarbons, alkaloids, benzofurans, cyclohexylethanoid, fatty acids, sterols, and terpenoid.

Conclusions:

Phytochemical studies and Nyctanthes arbour-tristis Linn's pharmacological activities indicated it as a potential medicinal plant for various ailments. However, more research is crucial to investigate the mode of action of the plant's bioactive constituents and its therapeutic potential.
Ninus and Metiochus in the school of rhetoric: the first Greek novels
Authors: Fernández Garrido Regla
Published: May 2022

he aim of this paper is to underline the influence of school rhetoric in two passages of Ninus and Parthenope. Ninus' speech in presence of his aunt Derkeia (frag. A of P.Berol. 6926) is analysed from the point of view of the stasis-theory and its most relevant formal features are commented. Metiochus’ refutation of the traditional mythical narrative on Eros (second column of P.Berol.7927) is dealt with the progymnasmatic theory. Moreover, the love-related motifs and the references to the previous literature are highlighted.
Aplikasi Dekomposisi Nilai Singlar Matriks Quaternion terhadap Perbaikan Citra Low dan High Pass Filtering
Authors: Wahyu Fibriyanti Regita Agustin , Karyati Karyati
Published: May 2022

Dekomposisi nilai singular matriks quaternion (Quaternion Singular Value Decomposition/SVDQ) sangat berguna dalam pengolahan citra, seperti dalam kompresi ukuran gambar, eigen-images, dan perbaikan kualitas citra, khususnya perbaikan suatu citra low pass filtering dan high pass filtering. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui bagaimana aplikasi dekomposisi nilai singular matriks quaternion pada perbaikan suatu citra low pass filtering dan high pass filtering, serta memberikan suatu aplikasi berbasis GUI MATLAB. Dasar dari dekomposisi nilai singular matriks quaternion didapatkan dengan menggunakan representasi terhadap matriks kompleks, dengan kata lain menggunakan isomorfisma matriks quaternion terhadap matriks kompleks. Hal itu bertujuan untuk mempermudah pendekomposisian matriks quaternion. Matriks quaternion tidak lepas dari nilai eigen matriks quaternion. Selanjutnya, nilai eigen matriks qauternion dapat dihitung menggunakan nilai eigen dari matriks kompleksnya. Melalui dekomposisi nilai singular matriks quaternion, diperoleh perbaikan citra low pass filtering dan high pass filtering yang hampir menyerupai citra aslinya. Untuk  perbaikan citra low pass filtering berhenti pada  dan untuk high pass filtering berhenti pada α=0,97.
Pengembangan Teknik Deteksi Ion Logam Fe(III) dengan Menggunakan Nanopartikel Perak yang Distabilkan Kitosan-Formaldehida sebagai Sensor pada Spektrofotometer UV-Vis
Authors: Sulistyani Sulistyani , Rustiah Waode , Kristianingrum Susila , Fillaeli Annisa , P.S. Fatikhah Nur Hidayati
Published: May 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan teknik deteksi ion logam Fe(III) menggunakan nanopartikel perak sebagai sensor pada spektrofotometer UV-Vis. Nanopartikel perak disintesis melalui metode reduksi kimia dengan reduktor natrium sitrat, kemudian ditambahkan agen penstabil kitosan yang diikat silang dengan formaldehid. Selanjutnya, nanopartikel perak yang telah dimodifikasi dengan kitosan-formaldehid direaksikan dengan ion Fe(III) pada berbagai variasi konsentrasi dan sinyal absorpsinya diamati menggunakan spektrofotometer UV-Vis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nanopartikel perak-kitosan-formaldehid berhasil disintesis yang ditandai dengan perubahan warna dari bening menjadi kuning kecoklatan dan munculnya serapan maksimum pada λ = 416 nm. Saat berinteraksi dengan ion Fe(III) pada berbagai variasi konsentrasi, serapan maksimum nanopartikel perak yang distabilkan kitosan-formaldehid relatif tidak mengalami pergeseran, tetapi muncul serapan SPR pada λ = 480 nm. Berdasarkan uji kinerja analitik pada daerah SPR, dapat dinyatakan nanopartikel perak yang distabilkan kitosan-formaldehid memiliki kinerja yang baik sebagai sensor ion Fe(III) dengan nilai presisi 0,12%, akurasi 0,075 ppm, nilai linieritas (R2) 0,924 pada rentang konsentrasi dari 1-50 ppm dengan persamaan regresi y = 0,0015x + 0,1646, serta nilai LOD dan LOQ secara berturutan 0,106 ppm dan 0,235 ppm.
Molecular Detection of Some Vancomycin and Virulence Factor Genes in Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Mhawesh Ahmed , khalaf Hadeel , khudair Marwa
Published: May 2022

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) and pathogenic E. faecium is a crisis in healthcare settings. This survey aimed at antibiotic susceptibility profiling and virulence determinants of E. faecium. This study pooled 100 fecal E. faecium isolates identified by phenotypic and molecular tests. Antibiotic susceptibility and ampicillin MIC were determined according to clinical and laboratory standards institute (CLSI) 2017. Moreover, biofilm formation was assayed by a microtiter tissue plate assay. Virulence genes pattern was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Among 460 fecal samples, 100 isolates of E. faecium were identified, among which the highest resistance was related to penicillin (81%), cephalothin (78%), cefazolin (76%), tetracycline and cefepime (69%). In contrast, 83% of them were susceptible to vancomycin. Moreover, four vancomycin-resistant isolates had vancomycin MIC>32µg/mL, and 11 isolates had MIC>8µg/mL. Of 32 ampicillin-resistant isolates, 18 (56%) produced strong biofilm, and 14 isolates (44%) produced moderate biofilm. Among 17 vancomycin-resistant E. faecium (VREfa), 15 (88.23%) isolates produced strong biofilms, and two of them produced moderate-level biofilms, which was significantly higher than susceptible isolates (p=0.0144). The vanA (vancomycin MIC: 16-64µg/mL) and vanB (vancomycin MIC: 8-64µg/mL) genes were detected in twelve and five isolates, respectively. The rate of adhesin genes ace, esp and ebp included 68%, 97% and 82%, respectively. All the VREfa harbored the ace, esp and ebp genes. The antibiotic resistance rate of E. faecium was low. Biofilm formation was significantly different between VREfa and vancomycin-susceptible isolates but not between k9ampicillin-resistant and ampicillin-susceptible isolates. All the VREfa harbored the ace, esp and ebp genes. The virulence adhesin genes were not significantly associated with biofilm formation. Further studies are essential to appreciate better the relation between biofilm formation, drug non-susceptibility and adhesin genes.

Keywords: E. faecium, antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation, virulence genes
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Among Obese Patients in Oman
Authors: Al Mutori Hamdi , Al Rudaini Mazin , Omar Ahmed F. , Anwar Sanam , Selim Yasser , Yaseen Bahaa
Published: May 2022

Studies characterizing Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) are limited in Oman. This study aims to assess the prevalence of NAFLD in obese Omani patients and find its relationship with other obesity-related medical conditions. Fifty-five adult obese patients were evaluated via medical history, clinical examination, and laboratory tests. Patients with any possible risk of liver injury were excluded. Diagnosis of NAFLD relied on ultrasonography criteria. Data were entered and analyzed in SPSS (version 22). The prevalence of NAFLD was calculated using frequency and percentages. Out of the total patient population, 37 (67.3%) have had NAFLD. Most of the patients (81%) were below 50 years of age. Systolic hypertension was present in 45.9%, while diastolic hypertension was present in 43.2%. AST and ALT levels were significantly increased (p<0.001) in most patients; 81.1% and 73%, respectively. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were higher in NAFLD patients (p<0.01). Mean levels of LDL, uric acid, and total cholesterol were significantly higher in the NAFLD patients (p<0.01). In conclusion, NAFLD and related metabolic complications are prevalent in obese Omani individuals.

Keywords. NAFLD, Obesity, Oman
Peer Review of “Cognitive Factors Associated With Public Acceptance of COVID-19 Nonpharmaceutical Prevention Measures: Cross-sectional Study” (Preprint)
Authors: Azadnajafabad Sina
Published: May 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report related to MS# 32859.
Application of gamification principles and design therapeutic movement sequences to develop an interactive physical activity game (Preprint)
Authors: Kim Hyung Sook , O'Sullivan David Michael , Chung Seong Hee
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Depression is a severe illness that has accelerated with the spread of COVID-19 and associated lockdowns. As a result, reported physical activity has substantially decreased, further increasing depressive symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to explain the use of gamification principles to develop content for an interactive physical activity game for depression based on clinically proven depression diagnostic criteria.

METHODS

In the first part, we discuss related work in this field, the game design framework, the users’ depression severity, how we customize the contents accordingly, the gradual progression of the game to match exercise principles, and user flow optimization.

RESULTS

In this section, we provide a brief description of each of the games developed, including instructions on how to play and design aspects for flow, audio, and visual feedback methods. Interactive physical activity-based games stimulate certain physical fitness factors such as improving reaction time, endurance, cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility. Additionally, the game difficulty progresses based on various factors, such as the user’s performance for successful completion, reaction time, movement speed, and stimulated larger joint range of motions. Cognitive aspects are included, as the user has to memorize particular movement sequences.

CONCLUSIONS

Mental health issues are linked to behavior and movement; therefore, future physical activity-based interactive games may provide excellent stimulation for inducing user flow, while physical activity can help train various physical fitness factors linked to depression.

CLINICALTRIAL

This study did not include clinical trials.
Readiness of Healthcare Students to be on the Frontline against COVID-19: A Qualitative Study in Vietnam (Preprint)
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong , Hoang Phuong Anh , Tran Quang Duc , Nguyen Do Thu Phuong , Tran Ngoc Tran , Truong Hoa Thi , Bui Khanh Linh , Nguyen Thi Hoa Huyen
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

The voluntary involvement of healthcare students worldwide in the COVID-19 pandemic has been well acknowledged.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the readiness of Vietnamese healthcare students to provide frontline Covid-19 support.

METHODS

Qualitative research was undertaken with 20 healthcare students utilizing interview guidelines.

RESULTS

The key findings showed that willing attitudes, self-confidence, and perceived support were factors that engaged the students in this voluntary work.

CONCLUSIONS

Healthcare students in Vietnam showed readiness to provide Covid-19 frontline support with willing attitudes, self-confidence, and perceived emotional support.
Сертифікація працівників реабілітаційних центрів за сучасними стандартами першої допомоги на основі досвіду FAST
Authors: Khramtsov D.M. , Serdyuk F.M. , Vorokhta Yu.M.
Published: May 2022

Актуальність. В умовах надання реабілітаційної допомоги нерідко виникають ситуації, коли подальше продовження тренування є небажаним або небезпечним для життя. У цих умовах дуже важливим є те, наскільки персонал медичної установи володіє навичками надання першої допомоги. Метою дослідження була оцінка впливу сертифікації персоналу реабілітаційного центру на якість медичних послуг. Матеріали та методи. Дослідження виконано на базі МЦ «Експерт Хелс» (м. Одеса) та клінічних базах Чорноморського національного університету ім. Петра Могили. Проведений рестроспективний аналіз частоти випадків невиконання індивідуальної програми реабілітації (ІПР) та рівня задоволеності наданим обсягом послуг, а також проспективне спостереження за дотриманням стандартів якості й частоти випадків надання першої невідкладної допомоги після завершення сертифікації. Додатково виконано анкетування персоналу щодо рівня компетенції у наданні першої допомоги на робочому місці. Статистична обробка проведена методами дисперсійного аналізу з використанням стандартних пакетів програмного забезпечення MS Excel (MicroSoft Inc., США). Результати. Ретроспективний аналіз не виявив суттєвих порушень принципів безпеки при наданні реабілітаційної допомоги до сертифікації персоналу за FAST. Частота виявлення випадків неналежного виконання ІПР не перевищувала 6,8 % (5 випадків із 74 проаналізованих). Після проведення тренінгу зменшилася кількість випадків невідповідності ІПР (на 50 %), значно зросли показники вмотивованості (на 55 %) та впевненості у своїх компетенціях (на 70 %). Висновки. Сертифікація персоналу реабілітаційних центрів за сучасними стандартами першої допомоги сприяє підвищенню вмотивованості та впевненості у своїх компетенціях. Доцільне широке впровадження навчання персоналу реабілітаційних центрів основним навичкам надання першої невідкладної допомоги на рівні світових стандартів.