bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A ocorrência dos modalizadores epistêmicos, avaliativos e delimitadores no gênero discursivo contrato
Authors: Gonçalves de Deus Katia Regina , Pereira do Nascimento Erivaldo
Published: October 2019

Este artigo objetiva analisar e descrever o funcionamento semântico-argumentativo dos modalizadores epistêmicos, avaliativos e delimitadores no gênero discursivo Contrato. A fundamentação teórica adotada tem base nos estudos sobre a Modalização Discursiva, apresentados por Castilho e Castilho (2002), Koch (2009), Nascimento e Silva (2012), entre outros, e na Teoria dos Gêneros Discursivos proposta por Bakhtin (2000 [1979]). O corpus é composto por 10 (dez) contratos, coletados em instituições e na rede mundial de computadores. Essa investigação é de natureza quali-quantitativa, de cunho descritivo e interpretativo. Os resultados da investigação revelam que a argumentatividade se faz presente no gênero discursivo contrato, entre outras estratégias, pela presença dos modalizadores epistêmicos, avaliativos e delimitadores. Estes últimos apresentam um maior destaque, tanto em função da quantidade de ocorrências como em relação aos efeitos de sentido que provocam no gênero.
The Predictability of Blocking Character in the Northern Hemisphere Using an Ensemble Forecast System
Authors: Reynolds DeVondria D. , Lupo Anthony R. , Jensen Andrew D. , Market Patrick S.
Published: October 2019

Introduction:

Some weather extremes are the result of atmospheric blocking, which can be responsible for the stagnation of weather patterns. These large-scale quasi-stationary mid-latitude flow regimes can result in significant temperature and precipitation anomalies over the regions that the blocking event impacts or in the upstream and downstream regions.

Methods:

The ability to predict periods of anomalous weather conditions due to atmospheric blocking is a major problem for medium-range forecasting. Analyzing the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Ensemble 500-hPa pressure level heights (240 hrs.) ten-day forecasts, and using the University of Missouri blocking archive to identify blocking events, the forecasted onset, duration, and intensity of model blocking events are compared to observed blocks.

Results and Discussion:

The observed blocking events were identified using the University of Missouri blocking archive. Comparing these differences using four Northern Hemisphere case studies occurring over a one-year period across the Northern Hemisphere has shown the continued need for improvement in the duration and intensity of blocking events. Additionally, a comparison of the block intensity to a diagnostic known as the Integrated Regional Enstrophy (IRE) was performed in order to determine if there is a correlation between IRE and these quantities.

Conclusion:

Having a better understanding of block persistence and their associated anomalies can help society prepare for the damage they can cause.
Foot thermometry with mHeath-based supplementation to prevent diabetic foot ulcers: A randomized controlled trial (Preprint)
Authors: Lazo-Porras Maria , Bernabe-Ortiz Antonio , Taype-Rondan Alvaro , Gilman Robert H. , Malaga German , Manrique Helard , Neyra Luis , Calderon Jorge , Pinto Miguel , Armstrong David , Montori Victor M. , Miranda J Jaime
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Thermometry monitoring has proven to reduce the occurrence of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). mHealth may contribute to enhance adherence to this effective intervention.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to compare incidence of DFU in the thermometry plus mHealth reminders intervention arm vs. thermometry-only control arm.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized trial enrolling adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus with foot-at-risk (risk groups 2 or 3) without foot ulcers and allocating them to control (instruction to use a liquid crystal-based foot thermometer daily) or to intervention (same instruction supplemented with text and voice messages with reminders to use the device and messages to promote foot care) and followed for 18 months. The primary outcome was time to occurrence of DFU. A process evaluation was also conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 172 patients (63% women, mean age 61 years) were enrolled, 86 to each study group. More patients enrolled in the intervention arm had a history of DFU (66% vs. 48%). Follow-up for the primary endpoint was complete for 158 of 172 participants (92%). DFU cumulative incidence was 24% (19 of 79) in the intervention arm and 11% (9 of 79) in the control arm. After adjusting for history of foot ulceration and study site, the HR for DFU was 1.44 (95% CI 0.65, 3.22). Adherence to ≥80% of daily temperature measurements was 87% (103 of 118) among the study participants that returned the logbook, without difference between intervention and control arm.

CONCLUSIONS

This trial contributes to the evidence about the value of mHealth to prevent diabetes foot ulcers.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinical trials, NCT02373592. Registered 27 February 2015, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02373592
Feasibility and Accuracy of a Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing Instrument to Ascertain Prior Immunization With Human Papillomavirus Vaccine by Self-Report: Cross-Sectional Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Oliveira Carlos R , Avni-Singer Lital , Badaro Geovanna , Sullivan Erin L , Sheth Sangini S , Shapiro Eugene D , Niccolai Linda M
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Ascertaining history of prior immunization with human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can be challenging and resource-intensive. Computer-assisted self-interviewing instruments have the potential to address some of the challenges of self-reporting, and may also reduce the time, costs, and efforts associated with ascertaining immunization status.

OBJECTIVE

This study assesses both the feasibility and the accuracy of a computer-assisted self-interviewing instrument to ascertain a patient’s history of immunization with the HPV vaccine.

METHODS

We developed both a survey and a Web-based data collection system using computer-assisted self-interviewing to ascertain self-reported HPV vaccine immunization history. We implemented the instrument in a sample of adult women enrolled in an ongoing study of the HPV vaccine. Vaccine records from prior sources of care were reviewed to verify reported immunization history.

RESULTS

Among the 312 participants who provided HPV vaccine immunization history by self-report, almost all (99%) were able to do so using the computer-assisted self-interviewing instrument. The median survey completion time was 10 minutes (IQR 7-17). The accuracy of self-report was 84%, sensitivity was 89%, specificity was 80%, and the negative predictive value was 92%.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that it is feasible to collect a history of immunization with the HPV vaccine using a computer-assisted self-interviewing instrument. This approach is likely to be acceptable to adult women and is reasonably accurate in a clinical research setting.
The Influence of Doctors’ Online Reputation on the Sharing of Outpatient Experiences: Empirical Study (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Yang , Wu Hong , Lei Xueqin , Shen Jingxuan , Feng Zhanchun
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

The internet enables consumers to evaluate products before purchase based on feedback submitted by like-minded individuals. Displaying reviews allows customers to assess comparable experiences and encourages trust, increased sales, and brand positivity. Customers use reviews to inform decision making, whereas organizations use reviews to predict future sales. Prior studies have focused on manufactured products, with little attention being paid to health care services. In particular, whether patients prefer to use websites to discuss doctors’ reputation has so far remained unanswered.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate how patient propensity to post treatment experiences changes based on doctors’ online reputation (medical quality and service attitude) in delivering outpatient care services. Further, this study examines the moderating effects of hospitals’ (organizational) online reputation and disease severity.

METHODS

Fractional logistic regression was conducted on data collected from 7183 active doctors in a Chinese online health community to obtain empirical results.

RESULTS

Our findings show that patients prefer to share treatment experiences for doctors who have a higher medical quality and service attitude (βservice attitude=.233; P<.001 and βmedical quality=.052; P<.001) and who work in hospitals with a higher online reputation (β=.001; P<.001). Patients are more likely to share experiences of doctors who treat less severe diseases, as opposed to those treating severe diseases (β=−.004; P=.009). In addition, hospitals’ online reputation positively (negatively) moderates the relationship between medical quality (service attitude) and patient propensity to post treatment experiences, whereas the moderating effects of disease severity on doctors’ online reputation are negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research contributes to both theory and practice by extending the current understanding of the impact of individual reputation on consumer behavior. We investigate the moderating effects of organizational reputation and consumer characteristics in online health communities.
Effectiveness of a Two-Tier Family-Oriented Intervention in Enhancing the Family Functioning and Care Capacity of the Family Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Lou Vivian Weiqun , Tang Jennifer Yee Man , Lau Gary Kui Kai , Lum Terry Yat Sang , Fong Kenneth , Ko Rachel Wai Tung , Cheng Clio Yuen Man , Fu Joyce Yinqi , Chow Eddie Siu Lun , Chu Angus Chun Kwok , Hui Elsie , Ng Winnie Wing Ling , Chan Felix Hon Wai , Luk C C , Kwok T K
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Stroke has profound impacts on families. Often, family members, including stroke survivors and the person who takes up the role of the primary caregiver, would encounter demands on finances, rehabilitation arrangement, and even conflicts. Hence, a family-oriented intervention is expected to enable families to rebuild internal and external resources to achieve optimal rehabilitation and community reintegration.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to describe a design of a two-tier family-oriented care management intervention for enhancing the family functioning and care capacity of the caregivers of stroke survivors.

METHODS

The two-tier care management intervention was guided by a standardized protocol conducted by trained professional care managers (first tier) with the support of trained volunteers (second tier), which lasted for 8-12 weeks. Participants were recruited through collaborating hospitals according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. In order to examine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the two-tier care management intervention, a two-arm randomization multicenter study was designed, including an active comparison group, which was guided by a standardized protocol conducted by trained volunteers. Dyadic participants, including both stroke survivors and their primary caregivers for both groups, were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey using standardized and purposefully developed measures 3 times: before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and 2 months after the intervention. The primary outcome was family functioning measured by the Family Role Performance Scale and Family Assessment Device-General Functioning Scale. The secondary outcomes included caregiving burden, depressive symptoms, care management strategies, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio.

RESULTS

Recruitment began in January 2017 and was completed at the end of April 2019. Data collection was completed at the end of March 2020. As of March 2020, enrollment has been completed (n=264 stroke caregivers). A total of 200 participants completed the baseline questionnaires. We aim to publish the results by mid-2021.

CONCLUSIONS

This study successfully developed a two-tier care management protocol that aims to enhance the family functioning of the caregivers of stroke survivors. Guided by a standardized protocol, this family-oriented two-tier intervention protocol was found to be feasible among Chinese families.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03034330; https://ichgcp.net/clinical-trials-registry/NCT03034330

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR1-10.2196/16703
Experience of Negotiating Access in the “Field”: Lessons for Future Research
Authors: Fobosi Siyabulela C.
Published: October 2019

Accessing the field for the purposes of conducting research often starts with negotiation and engagement with gatekeepers. This is the first requirement for the research to be conducted; however, this step has challenges. While research has been conducted on negotiating access and research ethics, very little is known about the experiences of doctoral students from the Global South on negotiating access in fieldwork, and thus giving an account of what it entails conducting qualitative research from the Global South. As such, this article engages with the challenges of negotiating access to the field for my PhD studies. Due to the nature of research for my thesis, I conducted interviews with key informants from the departments and participants from the taxi ranks. In this article, I problematize the view that gaining access to the field is a simple process, by exposing my own uncomfortable encounters during the process.
RECHALLENGING TREATMENT PLAN FOR MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT TUBERCULOSIS IN DIABETIC PATIENT: A CASE REPORT
Authors: AL-TEMIMI AHMED ALAA , M NIZAM MUHAMMAD ZHARIF , HASSAN YAHAYA , A AZIZ NOORIZAN , MOHD ASMANI MOHD FADLI , ABDULLAH IBRAHIM
Published: October 2019

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) currently considers as the biggest issue and its subcategory, rifampicin-resistant TB (RR-TB). MDR-TB is defined as a resistant to isoniazid (H) and rifampicin (R), while the latter is resistant to rifampicin (R) only. Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus increases the risk of TB and leads to poor TB treatment outcomes as well it is consider potentially threating TB control. Difference in patients’ response and side effect developments toward anti-TB (ATB) medications requires rechallenging procedure that can be complicated at times. The management of MDR-TB can be complicated, especially, when the patient cannot tolerate the short regimen. Difference in patients’ response and side effect developments toward ATB medications requires rechallenging procedure which can have prolonged treatment time, hospital stay, and make patients exposed to hospital-acquired infection. This challenges and obstacles, however, could be prevented earlier by having strong DOTS strategy to prevent the development of resistance and reactivation of TB.
STUDY ON GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY AND MASS SPECTROSCOPY ANALYSIS, ANTIOXIDANT, AND NUTRITIVE PROPERTIES OF AERVA LANATA (L.) JUSS. COLLECTED FROM SELECTED REGIONS OF SHIMOGA, KARNATAKA, INDIA
Authors: PRASAD YADAV VENAKTESH , R ASHWATHANARAYANA , MS PADMASHREE
Published: October 2019

Objective: Aerva lanata (L.) Juss., the plant ethanolic extract was subjected to gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy, antioxidant, and nutritive experiment using standard methods.

Methods: Antioxidant experiment is done using 2, 2‑diphenyl‑1‑picrylhydrazyl, 2, 2‑azobis‑3‑ethylbenthiozoline‑6‑sulfonic acid, superoxide radical scavenging, hydroxy radical scavenging, and metal‑chelating assays. Nutritive value is performed by double acid digestion followed by atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Results: Antioxidant experiment revealed that A. lanata (L.) Juss. the plant ethanolic extract has good medicinal compounds exhibits excellent antioxidant activity in all tested experiments, but comparably less with the standards used. From nutritive value experiment, it is revealed that A. lanata (L.) Juss the plant has high iron content with rich macro‑ and micro‑nutrients.

Conclusion: A. lanata (L.) Juss. could be exploited as a valuable source of antioxidant agent enriching with nutrients.
SCREENING OF PHYTOCHEMICALS AND IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT ANALYSIS OF IXORA MACROTHYRSA (TEJISM. AND BINN.)
Authors: SARASWATHI G SURUTHI , DOSS D VICTOR AROKIA
Published: October 2019

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the phytochemical screening and quantitative and in vitro antioxidant analysis of the hydroethanolic leaf extract of Ixora macrothyrsa (Tejism. and Binn.)

Methods: The powdered plant material was extracted using different solvents for phytochemical screening. For the quantitative analysis, proteins, carbohydrates, tannins, free amino acids, and proline were estimated. In vitro antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, total phenols, chlorophyll, and carotenoids were also analyzed using standard methods.

Results: The preliminary qualitative analysis of the hydroethanolic leaf extract of I. macrothyrsa showed the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, glycosides, and tannins. The secondary metabolites such as proteins, carbohydrates, tannin, free amino acid, and proline were quantified as 24.57±0.61 mg/g, 11.07±0.09 mg/g, 6.17±0.20 mg/g, 9.20±0.17 mg/g, and 34.47±0.44 mg/g, respectively. In vitro antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, total phenols, chlorophyll, and carotenoid were estimated to be 35.73±0.28 mg/g, 15.9±0. mg/g, 9.33±0.09 mg/g, and 5.9±0.58 mg/g, respectively.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that the hydroethanolic extract of the leaves of I. macrothyrsa showed the presence of major secondary metabolites and has potent antioxidant activity.
ANTICONVULSANT ACTIVITY OF RAUWOLFIA TETRAPHYLLA LEAF EXTRACT IN SWISS ALBINO MICE
Authors: Singh Aaditya , TRIPATHI SHALINI , PN SINGH
Published: October 2019

Objective: Rauvolfia tetraphylla is a plant potentially applicable in Ayurvedic and Unani System of Medicine for the treatment of various diseases. However, the anticonvulsant activity of this plant has not been reported and studied. Therefore, the ethanolic extract of leaf from the plant R. tetraphylla is used to evaluate anticonvulsant activity.

Methods: Anticonvulsant activity was screened using maximal electroshock seizure (MES) model and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure model in Swiss albino mice. The ethanolic extract was also evaluated for rutin and gallic acid content by high-performance thin-layer chromatography studies.

Results: Rutin and gallic acid contents were found as 15.60% and 7.81%, respectively. Ethanolic leaf extract (100–800 mg/kg) significantly reduced the duration of seizures which was induced by MES. The same doses also protected animals from PTZ-induced tonic seizures.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that R. tetraphylla plant leaves have significant anticonvulsant activity.
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF BLUMEA MOLLIS (D.DON) MERRILL
Authors: V JYOTHILEKSHMY , NAIR G ANJALI , K VYSHAK , R NAIR RADHIKA , MURALIKRISHNAN AMRITA , BANU JIFITHA , PAPPACHEN LEENA K
Published: October 2019

Objective: The objective of this research was to carry out the preliminary phytochemical screening and to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the methanolic extract of the Blumea mollis.

Methods: In the present work, the phytochemicals of the whole plant were extracted using petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, ethanol, and distilled water. These were then screened for triterpenes/steroids, alkaloids, anthraquinones, coumarins, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and phenolic acids using standard methods. Further, the antimicrobial activity of the methanolic extract was determined using Gram-positive and negative bacteria. Agar well diffusion method was employed for antimicrobial activity study, and the zone of inhibition was found out.

Results: The intensity of the color produced or the precipitate formed was used as the analytical response to these tests. Flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids showed positive results for phytochemical screening. The concentration of total phenols and flavonoids of the decoction was 45.5±0.2000 μg/ml gallic acid equivalent and 42.3±0.3606 μg/ml quercetin equivalent, respectively. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans were inhibited by the methanolic extract of B. mollis in agar well diffusion test.

Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that the methanolic extract of B. mollis contains glycosides, phenolics, tannins, and flavonoids. Plant possesses significant antibacterial and antifungal property; the potent antimicrobial activity of the plant could be attributed to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds in it.
CHARACTERISTICS OF PATIENTS WITH ORGANOPHOSPHORUS POISONING AND ITS MANAGEMENT: PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGICAL EVALUATION
Authors: KULKARNI MADHURI , PATIL ANANT
Published: October 2019

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze demographics, management pattern, and clinical outcomes in patients with organophosphorus poisoning.

Methods: In this subgroup analysis of retrospective data of patients admitted in intensive care unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of acute organophosphorus poisoning, demographic details, pattern of use of medicines, dose of atropine and pralidoxime (PRAM), duration of ICU stay, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

Results: A total of 92 patients with organophosphorus poisoning (mean age 34.7 years; male 69 [75%]) were included. The age of male patients was more than female patients (36.2 vs. 30.0 years; p=0.047). Atropine and PRAM were given to all patients. Ondansetron was used in all patients, whereas ranitidine was used in 91 (98.9%) patients. The mean total dose of atropine in male and female population was 99.5 mg and 89.0 mg, respectively (p=0.298). The mean total dose of PRAM in male and female population was 12.2 mg and 12.0 mg, respectively (p=0.772). There was no difference in the mean (standard deviation) duration of stay in ICU between male patients and female patients (7.6 [4.5] vs. 6.4 [3.9] days; p=0.249). A total of 61 (66.3%) patients were transferred to the ward, whereas 30 (32.6%) died.

Conclusion: Atropine and PRAM are the primary drugs for the treatment of organophosphorus poisoning. Ondansetron and ranitidine are useful drugs for the treatment of vomiting and gastric irritation, respectively, in these patients.
RAPID, METHOD FOR DETERMINATION OF METFORMIN AND CANAGLIFLOZIN IN PLASMA BY LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY-TANDEM MASS SPECTROMETER, APPLICATION TO BIOEQUIVALENCE STUDY
Authors: RAO PURAM SAMBASIVA , G NITHYA , RAO NB SUBBA , BATHEJA RAMAN
Published: October 2019

Objective: The objective of the study was to develop and validate a rapid selective bioanalytical method for the simultaneous determination of metformin and canagliflozin in plasma by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS) to facilitate bioequivalence study sample analysis. Stock solutions and spiking solutions were prepared accurately in methanol and 80% methanol in water, respectively.

Methods: Chromatography monitored using Analyst 1.6.2 software. Method was found selective, no matrix effect, reproducible and consistent recovery, accuracy, precision, and stable in aqueous as well as extracted/matrix samples. Method found linear over the range 10–2000 ng/ml for metformin and 30–6000 ng/ml for canagliflozin. The method is successfully applied to analyze samples collected in a bioequivalence study after administration of metformin/canagliflozin 1000/150 mg to 24 healthy male volunteers.

Results: Extraction was carried out using a simple solid phase extraction using mobile phase elution. 5 μl sample delivered as injection volume in 1.000 ml/min isocratic mobile phase flow on turbo ion electron spray technique for positive mode on API 4000 MS.

Discussion: Chromatography achieved within 3 min using a mobile phase containing acetonitrile and 10 mM ammonium formate buffer in a ratio of 70:30 on chromolith C18 analytical column. Q1/Q3 are 130.1/70.1, 136.3/77.1, 462.2/267.2 (with ammonium adduct), and 466.4/267.1 for metformin, metformin D6, canagliflozin, and canagliflozin D4, respectively.

Conclusion: Rapid, sensitive method for the simultaneous estimation of metformin and canagliflozin in plasma by LC-MS/MS is successfully developed, validated and applied to analyze 960 unknown samples of a bioequivalence study. Incurred sample reanalysis was revealed great reproducibility.
STUDY OF MULTIELEMENTAL CONCENTRATIONS AND NANO-MICRO STRUCTURAL MORPHOLOGY IN MYRTACEAE FAMILY MEDICINAL PLANTS BY FIELD EMISSION SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE-ENERGY DISPERSIVE X-RAY SPECTROSCOPY METHOD
Authors: SS TEERTHE , BR KERUR
Published: October 2019

Objective: The essential multielemental analysis was carried out in nano- and microscale surface morphology of two useful selected species of Myrtaceae family medicinal plants such as Eucalyptus and Guava using “field emission scanning electron microscope”–“energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy” (FESEM-EDS). To understand the elemental analysis of medicinal plant used in Bidar, Gulbarga/Kalaburagi and Yadgir districts of the Northeast Karnataka region.

Methods: In the present investigation, Myrtaceae family’s medicinal plants selected. The analysis of the samples were thorough nano-micro photograph obtained by using FESEM and specific weight percent of elemental concentration analyzed by EDX/EDS.

Results: The elemental concentrations such as C, O, magnesium, Al, Si, S, Cl, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn were estimated in all the collected medicinal plants and found to be within the World Health Organization (WHO’s) recommended values. FESEM morphology indicates that fine plane irregularly shaped particles, with size an average diameter 200 nm–1 μm, are found in both plants.

Conclusion: The Indian Traditional Medicinal Plants have been used as a potential source for general and therapeutic medicinal purposes, including as a home remedy, Ayurvedic, and herbal drugs for the treatment of different types of human diseases. The WHO established maximum permissible limits for the consumption of major, minor, and trace elements to ensure the safe uses of medicinal plants as a drug material so as to cure the diseases. The present investigation suggests that the collected medicinal plants have good alignments of secondary metabolites, functional groups, and intake of trace elements, which are useful for treatment and preparation of new Ayurvedic, herbal, and pharmaceutical drug, pellets of very small size for alignment of different diseases.
TRADITIONAL USES, PHYTOCHEMISTRY, AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF AMLA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE OF UNANI MEDICINE - AN UPDATED REVIEW
Authors: MASIHUDDIN MASIHUDDIN , MA JAFRI , SIDDIQUI AISHA , CHAUDHARY SHAHID
Published: October 2019

Emblica officinalis, commonly known as Amla belongs to family Euphorbiaceae, is widely used for medicinal purposes in Indian traditional system of medicine (Unani, Ayurveda, and Siddha). It is well known that all parts of Amla are useful in the treatment of various diseases. Various studies on Amla suggest that it has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal actions. It is one among those traditional plants, which have a long history of usage as a fruit and remedy. It is amazingly effective as natural antiaging drug. It is a very effectual plant in the treatment of acidity and peptic ulcer. According to Unani literature, it possesses nutritional as well as therapeutic values, and thus, it is one of the herbal nutraceuticals. Modern literature and research studies also prove its medicinal importance. Its fruit is used traditionally as an antioxidant, immunomodulator, antipyretic, analgesic, antitussive, anticancer, and gastroprotective. It is also useful in diarrhea, dysentery, diabetes, fever, headache, mouth ulcer, hair growth, scurvy, and constipation. Phytochemical studies on amla disclosed major chemical constituents including tannins, alkaloids, polyphenol, fatty acid, glycosides, phosphatides, vitamins, and minerals. Gallic acid, ellagic acid, phyllembein, and ascorbic acid are also found to be biologically effective. Various reports show the presence of catechol, β-carotene, flavonoids, pyrogallol, superoxide, and dismutase enzyme in Emblica fruit. In this review, an attempt is made to explore the complete information of E. officinalis including its phytochemistry and pharmacology.
EOSINOPHILIC VARIANT OF CLEAR CELL RENAL CELL CARCINOMA - A DIAGNOSTIC DILEMMA
Authors: RAO NAMRATA , MONAPPA VIDYA , K SUMAN
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Eosinophilic variant of clear cell renal cell carcinoma is an important entity to diagnose since it is aggressive and is associated with poor prognosis.

Case Report: A 75-year-old patient presented with pain abdomen. The magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass in the kidney. The differential diagnosis given was renal cell carcinoma and hydatid cyst. Nephrectomy was done and the specimen was sent for histopathology. The specimen showed a gray-brown lesion with extensive areas of hemorrhage and necrosis. On microscopy, the tumor cells were arranged in nests. The cells had abundant eosinophilic granular cytoplasm. The differential diagnosis on morphology was chromophobe renal cell carcinoma and oncocytoma with extensive inflammation. However, immunohistochemistry (IHC) proved the diagnosis of eosinophilic variant of clear cell renal cell carcinoma.

Conclusion: Hence, IHC is an essential adjunct to morphology in diagnosing renal neoplasms.
IN VITRO STUDY OF ANTIMICROBIAL AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF OXALIC ACID-DERIVED BIOACTIVE CHELATING AGENT
Authors: SELASTEEN F DAISY , RAJ S ALFRED CECIL
Published: October 2019

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the biological potentials of sodium cadmium oxalate dihydrate complex prepared by a single diffusion method in the silica gel medium.

Methods: The present complex was derived by the oxalic acid using a single diffusion method in gel medium and tested for single-crystal X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet-visible (UV) spectrum (190–500 mm), and solubility (distilled water at 20–29°C) studies. Antioxidant activity was determined by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay, and antimicrobial activity was measured by agar well diffusion method.

Results: The present chelating complex was successfully synthesized by gel technique. The solubility of sodium cadmium oxalate dihydrate was moderately good for deionized warm water. The UV spectral studies confirmed the chelating O-H, Na-O, and C-O bonds of the newly synthesized complex for the optical and biological properties.

Conclusions: The metal-oxygen and oxygen-hydrogen bonds of the present newly synthesized sample much improved its optical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities and find its applications in the field of pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
PHARMACOKINETIC COMPARISON OF MONTELUKAST SODIUM FORMULATIONS AFTER A SINGLE ORAL DOSE IN HEALTHY GUINEA PIGS
Authors: SINGH NEELAM , Kulkarni Giriraj T , Kumar Yatendra , T KULKARNI GIRIRAJ
Published: October 2019

Objective: Pharmacokinetic evaluation of montelukast sodium chronomodulated capsules (sustained-release solid dispersion of drug enclosed in pH-sensitive film-coated hard gelatin shell) and marketed tablets has been carried out in this study.

Methods: A single oral dose of prepared capsules and marketed conventional tablets was administered in healthy male Dunkin-Hartley albino guinea pigs. Blood samples were collected at different time intervals and plasma concentration of drug was determined by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Different pharmacokinetic parameters were assessed from plasma drug concentration-time profile by one-compartment model, first-order kinetics.

Results: Pharmacokinetic parameters such as time to reach maximum concentration, elimination rate constant, elimination half-life, and mean residence time data indicates that drug release from chronomodulated capsules is significantly prolonged with initial release lag time of 3.5–4 h in comparison with marketed conventional tablets. However, maximum drug plasma concentration, area under the concentration-time curve, and apparent volume of distribution values show non-significant difference between capsules and marketed tablets.

Conclusion: The findings specified that capsules were providing time controlled delivery of drug at a desired rate for prolonged time, which may be helpful for the prevention of episodic attack of asthma in early morning hours.
NARINGENIN-LOADED D-Α-TOCOPHERYL POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL SUCCINATE 1000 POLYMERIC NANOSUSPENSION: AN IN VITRO AND IN VIVO ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY
Authors: RAJAMANI SUMATHI , KALYANA SUNDARAM GOBINATH , SENGODAN TAMIZHARASI , THANGAVELU SIVAKUMAR , SHANMUKHAN NIKHITHA K , RADHAKRISHNAN ARUN
Published: October 2019

Objective: Naringenin (NAR) a flavonoid, exhibits extensive pharmacological action, fails to attain a significance in application due to low aqueous solubility (~ 0.214 mg/mL) which results in low bioavailability (5.8%). Nanosuspension of NAR (NARNS) was prepared in our previous studies using high-pressure homogenization employing various polymers. All these formulations were characterized and as a continuation of our work formulations was further evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity by in vitro and in vivo methods.

Methods: Denaturation of protein method and membrane stabilization methods was chosen for in vitro evaluation. In vivo studies performed were acute inflammatory studies (carrageenan-induced paw edema) and chronic inflammatory studies (cotton pellet granuloma) on Wistar albino rats.

Results: The studies demonstrated that the NAR and NARNS at a dose of 50mg/kg P.O. have a potent activity compared to the standard drug diclofenac.

Conclusion: The percentage of protection against inflammation exhibited by NARNS was highly significant compared to NAR.
GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY-MASS SPECTROSCOPIC ANALYSIS OF BLACK PLUM SEED (SYZYGIUM CUMINI) EXTRACT IN HEXANE
Authors: A H ABDUL JALEEL , F MAHDI JINAN , FAROOQUI MAZHAR , Y H SHAIKH
Published: October 2019

Objective: Black plum seed has unique medicinal value and used as antidiabetics, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory.

Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the extracts of black plum seed obtained using solvent extraction with hexane as a solvent is used to attempt the identification of prominent components.

Results: Black plum seed extract is obtained by solvent extraction technique using Soxhlet extractor. A total of 10 compounds are predicted in black plum seed extract by GC-MS analysis.

Conclusion: The work presented relates to the study of GC-MS analysis of the extract of black plum seed obtained using solvent extraction with hexane as a solvent. Of ten compounds of black plum seed extract, five compounds are known to have antimicrobial properties.
DRUG REPOSITION OF NON-CANCER DRUGS FOR CANCER TREATMENTS VIA PHARMACOVIGILANCE APPROACH - REPURPOSING DRUGS IN ONCOLOGY
Authors: Parmar Mrugank Bhaskarkumar , Panchal Shital
Published: October 2019

This study for drug repositioning has been performed for the drugs which are in the market since more than a decade and they are approved with their well-established efficacy and safety in human being. Objective of this study was to reposition the existing non-cancer drug therapy for cancer treatment, which is having well characterized pharmacologic profile with more efficacy and least toxicity as anti-neoplastic agent. We have retrieved the source data from FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) for the last 13 years covering duration from 2004 to 2016 and analysed those using pharmacovigilance approach â€˜a proposed future novel pharmaceutical tool for drug repositionâ€™. Signal management activity was performed for statistical analysis. Result of statistical analysis derived that propranolol; metformin; pioglitazone; dabigatran and nitroglycerin are the existing non-cancer drugs which deserved for their direct / indirect reposition for cancer treatment and anti-neoplastic activity. Further studies retrieving the source data from other regulatory database (e.g. Eudravigilance of EMA and VigiFlow of WHO) and post-marketing surveillance study with the same objective may adjuvant our results for the reposition of existing drugs by pharmacovigilance approach.
THE CORRELATION BETWEEN FAT INTAKE AND PLASMA SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE ACTIVITY WITH TELOMERE LENGTH OF MINANGKABAU ETHNICITY MEN, IN WEST SUMATERA, INDONESIA
Authors: AFRIWARDI AFRIWARDI , SULASTRI DELMI , LESTARI YUNIAR , DESMAWATI DESMAWATI , MINERVA PRIMA
Published: October 2019

Objective: The purpose of this research is to investigate the correlation between fat intake and plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity with telomere length of Minangkabau ethnic men in West Sumatera, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Padang City in 2016, using a sample of 107 Minangkabau ethnic men, aged between 40 and 50 years. The total fat, saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) intake were collected using a food frequency questionnaire, and blood sample analysis to measure telomere length and plasma SOD activity.

Results: This research indicated that an average telomere length was 584.59±305.92 bp, fat intake consists of total fat was 27.01±6.68% calorie, SFA was 24,7510.07% calorie, MUFA was 10.24±5.41% calorie, and PUFA was 7.35±3.54% calorie. Average of plasma SOD activity was 5.85±3.41 u/mL. There were no correlations between fat intake (total fat, SFA, MUFA, and PUFA) with telomere length (p>0.05), but there was a significant positive correlation between plasma SOD enzyme activity with telomere length (r=−0.202, p=0.037).

Conclusion: Fat intake within normal limits does not correlate with telomere length, and plasma SOD activity is a risk factor for telomere shortening in ethnic Minangkabau men.
EVALUATION OF MUCUNA PRURIENS SEED EXTRACT FOR ITS ACUTE ORAL TOXICITY IN ALBINO RATS
Authors: SWAMY GANGADHARA , RAO SURESH R , HOLLA RAJENDRA
Published: October 2019

Objectives: The present study was carried out to evaluate the hydroalcoholic extract of Mucuna pruriens (HAMP) seeds for its acute oral toxicity in albino rats.

Methods: Acute oral toxicity of MP seed extract was assessed in albino rats with three different doses of the extract with 175, 550, and 2000 mg/ kg body weight. Body weight, mortality, and clinical signs were recorded on 0 (before administration), 7th, and 14th days. Rats were sacrificed after day 14 and observed for any histological changes in the brain, heart, liver, and kidney tissues. Rats were normal up to 1 h and exhibited dullness and piloerection after 1 h which continued up to 2–4 h of observation period on day 0 of administration. All animals appeared normal from day 1 to throughout the experimental procedure.

Results: No significant changes in the histological structure of the liver, kidney, and heart were noticed except mild congestion and hydropic changes only in liver tissue seen for 2000 mg/kg body weight of HAMP seeds. The seed extract of MP is non-toxic to rats and did not show any mortality nor the behavioral changes. In addition, it showed an increase in the body weight with the administration up to 2000 mg/kg body weight.

Conclusion: MP seed extract signified as neurosuppressant, and the drug can be used in the treatment of neurological disorders characterized by hyperactivity of the neurons. The present data could provide adequate confirmation of the safety of MP for further experimental studies on a standardized formulation of the seeds extract.
PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS, HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY, AND EX VIVO ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIAL OF A HERBAL FRUIT EXTRACT
Authors: SHARMA GEETIKA , MISHRA TULIKA
Published: October 2019

Objective: The objective of the present investigation was to determine the presence of various phytochemicals in an ethanolic herbal fruit extract (HFE) made up by a blend of fruits of Phyllanthus emblica (PE), Ananas comosus (AC), Punica granatum (PG), and Terminalia chebula (TC). Followed by a qualitative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis for standardization of the extract using ascorbic acid and gallic acid as standards, this study was also aimed at the determination of ex vivo antioxidant potential and calculation of inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of HFE.

Methods: The analysis of phytochemicals present in HFE was done qualitatively by methods as described by various researchers. Reversed-phase HPLC was carried out on a C-18 column on gradient mode, using methanol and acetic acid as mobile phase. Ex vivo antioxidant potential was evaluated by inhibition of lipid peroxidation (LPO) method by the preparation of packed cell volume.

Results: The results revealed the presence of multiple phytoconstituents in the HFE, and through the chromatographic analysis, the presence of gallic and ascorbic acid as marker compounds was achieved. IC50 values calculated after LPO inhibition method was found to be 21.87 μg/ml and 25.63 μg/ml for ascorbic acid (as standard) and ethanolic HFE, respectively.

Conclusion: The use of herbal antioxidants can provide protection to the human body by fighting against multiple diseases caused as a result of the accumulation of free radicals, generated in the normal metabolic processes going on inside the body. Nowadays, researchers are amused to see the long-term positive effects of using a combination of antioxidants, for example, a polyherbal formulation, rather than single entities.
BIO-CONTROL OF MULTIPLE DRUG-RESISTANT UROPATHOGENS USING MEDICINAL PLANT EXTRACTS
Authors: CHAUDHARY VIGI , RK RAGHUVANSHI , CHAUDHARY NAVEEN , SHARMA GAURAV
Published: October 2019

Objective: The present study was conducted to evaluate the potential of some medicinal plants used in Ayurveda in treating multiple drug-resistant human pathogens causing urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Methods: Dried parts of six medicinal plants used in Ayurveda for treating UTI were Soxhlet extracted, and the extract was concentrated in vacuo. Various concentrations of the extract were tested for antimicrobial activity against three clinical isolates of multiple drug-resistant bacteria causing UTI.

Results: Preliminary results showed the promising antibacterial effect of plant extracts. Escherichia coli, the most common pathogen associated with UTI, was susceptible to aqueous extracts of all the six medicinal plants.

Conclusion: This study concluded that the medicinal plants used in Ayurveda to treat UTIs are effective against multiple drug-resistant uropathogens. Further study in this regard may lead to the identification of novel antimicrobial agent for treating multiple drug-resistant urinary tract pathogens.
COMPARATIVE PHYTOCHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF FIVE GLYCINE MAX (L.) MERRILL GENOTYPES
Authors: ABD-ALLA HOWAIDA I , A. A TAIE HANAN , ABD-ELMOTALEB MARWA M
Published: October 2019

Objective: Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) is the world’s most important consumed seed legume. The objectives of the present study were to determine the variability in phytochemical composition and biological activities between five genotypes of G. max.

Methods: Lipoidal matters were determined using glucose (GLC). Amino acids were detected by the amino acid analyzer. The phytoconstituents present within each ethanol extract was investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The amount of total phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins was analyzed using a spectrophotometric technique, based on Folin–Ciocalteu reagent, aluminum chloride colorimetric assay, and the modified vanillin hydrochloric acid method, respectively. Quercetin, catechin, and gallic acid were used as standard compounds, respectively. Isoflavones content were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)/photodiode array (PDA). The radical scavenging and antioxidant capacity of the genotypes using different in vitro analytical assays such as 2,2-diphenyl,1-picryl hydrazyl, 2,2’-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid, reducing power, metal chelating, and ferric reducing anti-oxidant power. Butyl hydroxyl toluene and trolox were used as the reference antioxidant radical scavenger compounds. Antitumor activity was evaluated by detecting the viability of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells on four different concentrations (1–5 mg/mL).

Results: GLC analysis showed the high value of total unsaturated fatty acids and 16 amino acids including glutamic acid with the highest concentration. The variation between genotypes according to their chemical composition of the aldehydes, esters, ketones, alcoholics, and carboxylic content were reported. HPLC/PDA referred to the presence of daidzein, genistein, and in all genotypes.

Conclusion: The results confirm the higher value of phytoconstituents of the genotype Giza 35 and Giza 21 as well as their better bioactivity.
THE EFFECT OF PUGUNTANO (CURANGA FEL-TERRAE [LOUR.]) EXTRACT ON ADIPONECTIN RECEPTOR (ADIPOR) IN RATS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS
Authors: LINDARTO DHARMA , MACHRINA YETTY , SYAFRIL SANTI , SARAGIH AWALUDDIN
Published: October 2019

Objective: This study aimed to determine whether the antidiabetic effects of puguntano (Curanga fel-terrae [Lour.]) extract involve anti-inflammatory effects mediated through adiponectin receptors (AdipoRs).

Methods: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) Wistar rats were induced by a combination of high-fat diet for 5 weeks and injection small dose streptozotocin 30 mg/kg bw/rat. This study was conducted in 48 T2DM rats, which were randomly assigned into two weight-matched groups (n=24, each). Only the treatment group received 0.2 mg/g bw of puguntano extract suspension through oral for 10 days. The clinical characteristics of T2DM and AdipoR were assessed before and after the treatment period.

Results: The treatment group demonstrated significantly lower body weight, fasting blood glucose, and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) but higher AdipoR than the control group (all, p<0.001). Furthermore, there were also negative correlations between AdipoR to body weight and HOMA-IR (all, p<0.05).

Conclusion: Our data suggest that puguntano could improve glucose metabolism and ameliorate insulin resistance and have anti-inflammatory effects mediated through AdipoR in T2DM.
En torno al superhombre
Authors: Rivero Weber Paulina
Published: October 2019

This paper analyzes some of the different characterizations of the idea of the Overman, in relation to the evolution of Nietzsche’s idea of “Dionysus”, pointing to the concept of will to Power. The use that Nietzsche does of Dionysus in his first work, The Birth of Tragedy, shows how he conceives the Apollonian-Dionysian dichotomy as a unity, while in later texts, there is a fragmentation of that unity. Through these changes, we can see the different conceptions of individuality, community, and truth in Nietzsche’s work. Finally, this paper considers that behind these different conceptions lies Nietzsche’s appreciation of reason and truth.