bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital Health Technology Use Across Socioeconomic Groups Prior to and During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Panel Study
Authors: Tuitert Inge , Marinus Jesse D , Dalenberg Jelle R , van 't Veer Job TB
Published: September 2024

Background

Digital technologies have become more important in the health care sector in the past decades. This transition from conventional to digital health care has been accelerated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which poses the risk of creating a “digital divide,” inadvertently placing those who are older, economically disadvantaged, and have a lower level of education at a disadvantage.

Objective

This study focuses on the influence of socioeconomic factors on the adoption of digital health technology in the Frisian population and how this relation is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In 2019 and 2020, a panel study was conducted on digital health in the Frisian population in the Netherlands. In the survey, the use of digital health technology was operationalized in a broad sense, going beyond the care context by also including preventative health-promoting solutions generally available on the consumer market, such as wearables and lifestyle apps. First, to assess the influence of socioeconomic factors on the total use of digital health apps, a generalized linear model was fitted with use of digital health app as the dependent variable and socioeconomic factors as between-subject factors on the 2019 data. Second, to analyze whether the use of separate health apps increased from 2019 to 2020, we conducted chi-square tests on different digital health app types. Third, to examine the influence of COVID-19 on the use of digital health apps, a generalized linear mixed model was fitted with the use of digital health apps as the dependent variable, COVID-19 as the within-subject variable, and socioeconomic factors as between-subject factors.

Results

The results indicated that prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, digital health technology use was higher in women, younger people, and those who are well educated and economically more privileged. Moreover, the percentage of people who reported using digital health technology rose from 70% (1580/2258) to 82.5% (1812/2197) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This increase was significant for all separate types of digital health technology (all P<.001). In addition, we found the interaction effects of COVID-19 with age and education attainment, indicating that the lower total use among older people and people with lower education attainment became slightly less apparent from 2019 to 2020.

Conclusions

These findings on the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the digital divide indicated that the use of all types of digital health apps increased and that older individuals and people with a lower level of education caught up a little during COVID-19. Future research should gain more insight into this effect and examine whether it persists beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, future endeavors should focus on vulnerable groups, ensuring they receive adequate attention to guarantee access to health care, preventative health-promoting solutions, and social services.
Uptake of Digital Health Interventions for Cardiometabolic Disease in British South Asian Individuals: Think Aloud Study
Authors: Ramasawmy Mel , Roland Persson Dan , Sunkersing David , Gill Paramjit , Khunti Kamlesh , Poole Lydia , Hanif Wasim , Blandford Ann , Sajid Madiha , Stevenson Fiona , Khan Nushrat , Banerjee Amitava
Published: September 2024

Background

Digital health interventions (DHIs) could support prevention and management of cardiometabolic disease. However, those who may benefit most often experience barriers to awareness and adoption of these interventions.

Objective

Among South Asian individuals, we evaluated user experience of DHIs for prevention and management of cardiometabolic disease, aiming to understand barriers and facilitators to initial and ongoing use.

Methods

Among South Asian individuals recruited via primary care, community organizations, and snowball methods (n=18), we conducted “think-aloud” interviews using a reflective and reactive approach. Participants included nonusers, as well as those that used a range of DHIs as part of monitoring and improving their health. Participants were asked to think aloud while completing a task they routinely do in a familiar DHI, as well as while setting up and completing a search task in a novel DHI; they were encouraged to behave as if unobserved.

Results

Lack of cultural specificity was highlighted as reducing relevance and usability, particularly relating to dietary change. Preferred features reflected individual health beliefs and behaviors, digital skills, and trust in DHIs. For example, tracking blood glucose was considered by some to be positive, while for others it caused distress and anxiety. Similarly, some users found the novel DHI to be extremely simple to set up and use, and others grew frustrated navigating through initial interfaces. Many participants raised concerns about data privacy and needing to agree to terms and conditions that they did not understand. Participants expressed that with information and support from trusted sources, they would be interested in using DHIs as part of self-management.

Conclusions

DHIs may support South Asians to prevent and manage cardiometabolic disease, but it is important to consider the needs of specific user groups in DHI development, design, and implementation. Despite motivation to make health changes, digital barriers are common. Cultural appropriateness and trusted sources (such as health care providers and community organizations) have roles in increasing awareness and enabling individuals to access and use DHIs.
Factors Impacting the Adoption and Potential Reimbursement of a Virtual Reality Tool for Pain Management in Switzerland: Qualitative Case Study
Authors: Lurtz Josefine , C Sauter Thomas , Jacob Christine
Published: September 2024

Background

Pain and its adequate treatment are an issue in hospitals and emergency departments (EDs). A virtual reality (VR) tool to manage pain could act as a valuable complement to common pharmaceutical analgesics. While efficacy could be shown in previous studies, this does not assure clinical adoption in EDs.

Objective

The main aim of this study was to investigate which factors affect the adoption and potential reimbursement of a VR tool for pain management in the ED of a Swiss university hospital.

Methods

Key informant interviews were conducted using in-depth semistructured interviews with 11 participants reflecting the perspectives of all the relevant stakeholder groups, including physicians, nurses, patients, health technology providers, and health insurance and reimbursement experts. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, and the extracted data were systematically analyzed using a thematic analysis and narrative synthesis of emergent themes. A consolidated framework for eHealth adoption was used to enable a systematic investigation of the topic and help determine which adoption factors are considered as facilitators or barriers or as not particularly relevant for the tool subject of this study.

Results

According to the participants, the three key facilitators are (1) organizational environment; (2) tension for change, ease of use, and demonstrability; and (3) employee engagement. Further, the three key barriers to adoption are (1) workload, (2) changes in clinical workflow and habit, and (3) reimbursement.

Conclusions

This study concludes that the adoption of a VR tool for pain management in the ED of the hospital subject of this study, although benefiting from a high tension for change in pain and workload management, is highly dependent on the respective organizational environment, engagement of the clinical staff, and reimbursement considerations. While tailored incentive structures and ambassador roles could benefit initial adoption, a change in the reimbursement landscape and further investigation of the positive effects on workflow effectiveness are required to drive long-term adoption.
Association of a Novel Electronic Form for Preoperative Cardiac Risk Assessment With Reduction in Cardiac Consultations and Testing: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kumar Mandeep , Wilkinson Kathryn , Li Ya-Huei , Masih Rohit , Gandhi Mehak , Saadat Haleh , Culmone Julie
Published: September 2024

Background

Preoperative cardiac risk assessment is an integral part of preoperative evaluation; however, there is significant variation among providers, leading to inappropriate referrals for cardiology consultation or excessive low-value cardiac testing. We implemented a novel electronic medical record (EMR) form in our preoperative clinics to decrease variation.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the impact of the EMR form on the preoperative utilization of cardiology consultation and cardiac diagnostic testing (echocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac catheterization) and evaluate postoperative outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Patients who underwent outpatient preoperative evaluation prior to an elective surgery over 2 years were divided into 2 cohorts: from July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022 (pre–EMR form implementation), and from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023 (post–EMR form implementation). Demographics, comorbidities, resource utilization, and surgical characteristics were analyzed. Propensity score matching was used to adjust for differences between the 2 cohorts. The primary outcomes were the utilization of preoperative cardiology consultation, cardiac testing, and 30-day postoperative major adverse cardiac events (MACE).

Results

A total of 25,484 patients met the inclusion criteria. Propensity score matching yielded 11,645 well-matched pairs. The post–EMR form, matched cohort had lower cardiology consultation (pre–EMR form: n=2698, 23.2% vs post–EMR form: n=2088, 17.9%; P<.001) and echocardiogram (pre–EMR form: n=808, 6.9% vs post–EMR form: n=591, 5.1%; P<.001) utilization. There were no significant differences in the 30-day postoperative outcomes, including MACE (all P>.05). While patients with “possible indications” for cardiology consultation had higher MACE rates, the consultations did not reduce MACE risk. Most algorithm end points, except for active cardiac conditions, had MACE rates <1%.

Conclusions

In this cohort study, preoperative cardiac risk assessment using a novel EMR form was associated with a significant decrease in cardiology consultation and testing utilization, with no adverse impact on postoperative outcomes. Adopting this approach may assist perioperative medicine clinicians and anesthesiologists in efficiently decreasing unnecessary preoperative resource utilization without compromising patient safety or quality of care.
Exploring the Feasibility of Digital Voice Assistants for Delivery of a Home-Based Exercise Intervention in Older Adults With Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Glavas Costas , Scott David , Sood Surbhi , George Elena S , Daly Robin M , Gvozdenko Eugene , de Courten Barbora , Jansons Paul
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Current clinical guidelines for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in older adults recommend the use of antihyperglycemic medications, monitoring of blood glucose levels, regular exercise, and a healthy diet to improve glycemic control and reduce associated comorbidities. However, adherence to traditional exercise programs is poor (<35%). Common barriers to adherence include fear of hypoglycemia and the need for blood glucose level monitoring before exercise. Digital health strategies offer great promise for managing T2DM as they facilitate patient-practitioner communication, support self-management, and improve access to health care services for underserved populations. We have developed a novel web-based software program allowing practitioners to create tailored interventions and deliver them to patients via digital voice assistants (DVAs) in their own homes.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to evaluate the feasibility of a 12-week, home-based, personalized lifestyle intervention delivered and monitored by DVAs for older adults with obesity and T2DM.

METHODS

In total, 50 older adults with obesity aged 50-75 years with oral hypoglycemic agent–treated T2DM were randomized to the intervention (DVA, n=25) or a control group (n=25). Participants allocated to the DVA group were prescribed a home-based muscle strengthening exercise program (~20- to 30-min sessions) and healthy eating intervention, delivered via DVAs (Alexa Echo Show 8; Amazon) using newly developed software (“Buddy Link”; Great Australian Pty Ltd). Control group participants received generalized physical activity information via email. Outcomes were feasibility, DVA usability (System Usability Scale), and objectively assessed physical activity and sedentary time (wrist-worn accelerometers).

RESULTS

In total, 45 (90%) out of 50 participants completed this study. Mean adherence to prescribed exercise was 85% (SD 43%) with no intervention-related adverse events. System usability was rated above average (70.4, SD 16.9 out of 100). Compared with controls, the DVA group significantly decreased sedentary time (mean difference –67, SD 23; 95% CI –113 to –21 min/d), which was represented by a medium to large effect size (d=–0.6).

CONCLUSIONS

A home-based lifestyle intervention delivered and monitored by health professionals using DVAs was feasible for reducing sedentary behavior and increasing moderate-intensity activity in older adults with obesity and T2DM.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12621000307808; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=381364&isReview=true
Exploring the Users’ Perspective of the Nationwide Self-Exclusion Service for Gambling Disorder, “Spelpaus”: Qualitative Interview Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tjernberg Johanna , Helgesson Sara , Håkansson Anders , Hansson Helena
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Problem gambling and gambling disorder cause severe social, psychiatric, and financial consequences, and voluntary self-exclusion is a common harm reduction tool used by individuals with gambling problems.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore users’ experience of a novel nationwide, multioperator gambling self-exclusion service, “Spelpaus,” in Sweden and to inform stakeholders and policy makers in order to improve harm reduction tools against gambling problems.

METHODS

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 individuals who reported self-perceived gambling problems and who had experience of having used the self-exclusion service Spelpaus in Sweden. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed through qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

We identified 3 categories and 8 subcategories. The categories were (1) reasons for the decision to self-exclude, (2) positive experiences, and (3) suggestions for improvement. The subcategories identified a number of reasons for self-exclusion, such as financial reasons and family reasons, and positive experiences described as a relief from gambling; in addition, important suggestions for improvement were cited, such as a more gradual return to gambling post–self-exclusion, better ways to address loopholes in the system, and transfer from self-exclusion to treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Voluntary self-exclusion from gambling, using a nationwide multioperator service, remains an appreciated harm-reducing tool. However, transfer from self-exclusion to treatment should be facilitated by policy making, and loopholes allowing for breaching of the self-exclusion need to be counteracted.
Study of Pre-hospital Medical Services Complaints: A Thematic Analysis Based on Shanghai Health Hotline (Preprint)
Authors: Yang Xuxu , Zhang Ziyi , Shi Lili , Shen XInyi , Cai Yuyang
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

As a crucial component of the modern healthcare system, pre-hospital medical services have become increasingly significant with the advancements in medical technology and evolving medical concepts. However, pre-hospital medical services face numerous challenges and difficulties. To enhance the quality of pre-hospital medical services, it is essential to identify the current deficiencies from the perspective of the demand side, analyze and monitor their concerns, and provide data support for future improvements.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to conduct text mining on the content of complaint work orders related to pre-hospital medical services recorded in the 12320 Health Hotline, with the goal of gaining an in-depth understanding of the key concerns and issues expressed by the public regarding these services.

METHODS

We obtained complaint work orders related to pre-hospital medical service from the 12320 health hotline, spanning from June 1, 2016 to December 31, 2019. Using the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic model, we identified the themes mentioned in these complaint work orders and analyzed their prevalence. The themes identified by the LDA model were further refined and categorized through manual verification. Detailed analyses and discussions were conducted for each complaint theme.

RESULTS

Among the 2287 complaint hotline orders related to pre-hospital medical services, the LDA model identified 12 distinct themes, each with specific subject terms and prevalence values. Through manual verification and summarization, we consolidated these into 6 main complaint themes: (1) ambulance response and dispatch, (2) service quality and attitude, (3) Poor coordination between pre-hospital and in-hospital medical services, (4) pre-hospital medical services cost issues, (5) medical documentation issues, and (6) hotline management.

CONCLUSIONS

Utilizing an intelligent LDA topic model combined with manual thematic summarization, this study successfully identified the primary concerns of public complaints regarding pre-hospital medical service in Shanghai from the 12320 Health Service Hotline. These findings highlight key challenges within the service process and provide data support for future improvements. By analyzing and monitoring hotline data, we gained a deeper understanding of public expectations and the difficulties they encounter with pre-hospital medical services.
Psychedelic Art and Implications for Mental Health: Randomized Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Peng Mary L , Monin Joan , Ovchinnikova Polina , Levi Amanda , McCall Terika
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Psychedelic art (PA) emerged in the 1960s during the psychedelic era; then characterized by visuals induced by the ingestion of psychedelic drugs, it is now an art form known for its vibrant colors, distorted forms, and intricate patterns. Building upon the existing research on art viewing as an effective means to improving physiological and psychological well-being, viewing PA is postulated to evoke positive emotions and provide a meditative experience, contributing to improved mental well-being.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate how digitally rendered PA influences viewers’ perceived emotional, mental, and physical states compared to imagery of natural scenery, offering insights into potential applications in mental health care and well-being.

METHODS

Overall, 102 participants age 18 to 35 years were randomly assigned to either the experimental group viewing 300 seconds of PA imagery (50/102, 49%) or the control group viewing 300 seconds of scenic imagery (52/102, 51%), after which every participant completed a survey that gathered qualitative data on the perceived impact of viewing their given imagery on their physical, mental, and emotional states through open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify the patterns of experiences reported by the participants.

RESULTS

Qualitative analysis unveiled a greater intensity and diversity of emotional, mental, and physical impacts induced by PA compared to natural scenery, including the sense of relaxation and peace, anxiety and stress alleviation, joy, thrill and sense of euphoria, sensations of awe and wonder, hypnotizing effect, holistic meditative effect, provocation of creative thoughts, induced hyperawareness of bodily states, and transitions from induced overstimulation or anxious thoughts to feelings of calmness.

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary findings of this study suggest that PA is a rich and complex form of visual art that has the potential to facilitate healing and promote well-being and mental health. PA presents promising avenues for integration into mental health care, therapeutic practices, digital health, health care environment, and medical research.

CLINICALTRIAL
The Meta-Analyses on Glycemic Management of out-of Hospital Patients with type 2 Diabetes based on the Digital Management Model to Glycemics (Preprint)
Authors: 肖 玉萍
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease characterized by insulin resistance and hyperglycemia due to insufficient ability of pancreatic beta cells to secrete insulin.1According to the latest data released by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in 2022, the number of people living with diabetes worldwide has climbed to a staggering 533 million, and is predicted to increase dramatically to 783 million by 2045,2 particularly noteworthy is the fact that over 90% of this large group are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).3According to authoritative data published by the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of deaths caused by diabetes has almost doubled since 2000, and in particular, the ranking of diabetes as a cause of death in low- and middle-income countries has jumped significantly from 15th to 9th.4Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease with complex and variable conditions,5and long-term abnormal fluctuations in blood glucose can cause irreversible damage to target organs, such as cardiovascular, renal, and neurological organs,6and numerous patients suffer from a variety of different types of complications, which poses a serious threat to human health and significantly reduces the quality of life of patients.7-8Moreover, the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes is exerting enormous pressure on social health systems around the world, and has now risen to the level of a global public health challenge that needs to be urgently addressed.2

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the digital glucose management model for controlling blood glucose levels in out-of-hospital patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, CBM, and Cochrane Library for articles published from the establishment of the database to December 25, 2023. Data were extracted independently by two researchers, and the risk of bias in individual trials was rated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool . Meta-analysis was conducted by using RevMan 5.3.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included and 1669 participants were involved. Meta-analysis found that in the digital glucose management group, glycosylated hemoglobin [MD=-0.52, 95%CI=(-0.63 to -0.42), P < 0.00001], Fasting blood sugar [MD=-0.42, 95%CI=(-0.65 to -0.19), P < 0.05], 2h postprandial blood sugar [MD=-0.64, 95%CI=(-0.97 to -0.32), P < 0.0001], body mass index[MD=-1.55, 95%CI=(-2.92 to -0.17), P < 0.05] was better than the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The digital glucose management model is effective in improving blood glucose levels and body mass index in out-of-hospital patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

CLINICALTRIAL

registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/,CRD42024560431.
Recurrent variceal bleeding in alcoholic liver cirrhosis (a case report)
Authors: Tutchenko M.I. , Rudyk D.V. , Aslanian S.A. , Chub S.L. , Besedinskyi M.S.
Published: September 2024

Alcoholic liver cirrhosis is widely known to doctors for its complications, including variceal bleeding from the esophagus and/or stomach. Recurrent variceal bleeding is considered a sign of decompensated portal hypertension. As fibrosis in the liver progresses, the gradient of portal pressure increases steadily, and each subsequent bleeding indicates a worsening survival prognosis. There are variety of measures available now to prevent upper gastrointestinal variceal bleeding. In the clinical case, the methods used to prevent repeated bleeding are described. Despite their use, numerous variceal bleedings were registered, which demonstrated the exceptional compensatory capabilities of the patient. In addition, long-term abstinence from the harmful factor, an alcohol, seems to be the most effective measure in this case.
Performance Evaluation of a Company's Merger on the STAR Market from the Perspective of Performance Commitments
Authors: Wu Yiyuan
Published: September 2024

The Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market), as a nascent capital market segment dedicated to supporting technological innovation enterprises, has not only significantly streamlined the financing processes for technology-driven companies but also substantially enhanced their market competitiveness. With the backing of capital, these enterprises have demonstrated stronger merger and acquisition capabilities, enabling more efficient integration of market resources, acquisition of cutting-edge technologies, and assimilation of managerial expertise. This has paved new avenues for technological innovation and industrial upgrading. This article delves into the latest trends in merger and acquisition activities among STAR Market-listed companies within the Chinese capital market, with a particular focus on the case of Company A's acquisition of Company B. The evaluation of the short-term merger and acquisition performance employs the event study method, while the long-term performance is assessed through financial indicators and other metrics tailored to the characteristics of STAR Market enterprises. The aim is to provide an in-depth analysis of the actual impact of this merger event through the evaluation of performance outcomes.
Analysis on the Practice of Life-Oriented Teaching of Ideological and Political Courses in Colleges and Universities from the Perspective of the New Era
Authors: Liu Panpan
Published: September 2024

Under the background of the new era, the curriculum reform of ideological and political theory courses in colleges and universities is urgent Life-oriented teaching method is based on students’ daily life experience and focuses on heuristic teaching. It is a feasible path to reform ideological and political courses. Through a literature review, this article summarizes the necessity and effective ways of applying life-oriented teaching methods in the reform and practice of ideological and political courses in colleges and universities. Research shows that life-oriented teaching methods can bridge the disconnect between ideological and political classrooms and students’ lives, and achieve an organic connection between “ideological and political courses” and “ideological and political life”. Use a variety of teaching methods such as life situations, case analysis, group discussions, etc. to stimulate student participation and achieve subtle educational effects. Contemporary college students have diverse groups, and teachers should design flexible and diverse life-oriented teaching plans according to different student groups. This study provides theoretical and practical reference for the reform of ideological and political courses under the conditions of the new era.
A Study on the Application of New Media in Broadcast Newscasting and Writing under the Perspective of Media Integration
Authors: Kai Zhao
Published: September 2024

The development trend of media convergence is related to user demand, market competition and other factors, based on this environmental background, the broadcasting news industry makes full use of the advantages of new media to innovate the development path, which is the right choice to comply with the changes and needs of social development. The rapid development of new media has brought a variety of information dissemination forms and broadened information dissemination channels, which is a new opportunity and a new challenge for the broadcast news industry. In this regard, this paper starts from the application of new media in broadcast news broadcasting and writing, focusing on the broadcast news industry to play the advantages of new media to promote their own transformation and upgrading. For example, broadcast news industry practitioners can start from the characteristics of the new media industry, revolutionize the concept of work and work thinking, change the writing ideas and innovative programs, improve the interactivity of broadcast news, so as to enhance the audience’s sense of experience and improve the competitiveness of broadcast news.
Heart Disease Prediction Using Machine Learning
Authors: Raj Gupta , Shashi Kumar , Animesh Anand , HR Sneha , V Sushma
Published: September 2024

The number of heart disease cases is rising quickly every day, making it crucial and worrisome to anticipate any such illnesses in advance. This diagnosis is a challenging task that requires accuracy and efficiency. The primary goal of the research work is to determine which patient, based on different medical parameters, is more likely to have a cardiac condition. Using the patient’s medical history, we developed a heart disease prediction algorithm to determine the likelihood of a heart disease diagnosis or not. To forecast and categorize the patient with heart disease, we employed a variety of machine learning algorithms, including logistic regression and kernel neighborhood network. A very helpful method was employed to control the model’s ability to increase any person’s heart attack prediction accuracy. In comparison to the previously utilized classifiers, such as naive bayes, etc., the proposed model’s strength was quite satisfying. It could predict signs of heart disease in a specific individual by utilizing KNN and Logistic Regression, which demonstrated a good accuracy. Thus, by utilizing the provided model to determine the likelihood that the classifier can correctly and precisely diagnose cardiac illness, a sizable amount of pressure has been released. The Given heart disease prediction system lowers costs and improves medical care. This research provides us with important information that can be used to forecast the patients who will have heart disease. It is used with the.pynb file format.
Innovative Approaches in Biodiesel Production from Waste Cooking Oils and Waste Animal Fats
Authors: Phillip Akash , Saini Nandini
Published: September 2024

In the past few years, biodiesel has garnered considerable interest from researchers, government bodies, and industries as a sustainable, eco-friendly, and safe alternative fuel. Nonetheless, various feedstocks have been deemed impractical or unviable due to their exorbitant costs, primarily because they are utilized as food sources. Waste cooking oils (WCOs) and waste animal fats (WAFs) stand out as the most viable options for biodiesel feedstocks, despite their challenges, since treating such waste can be quite expensive due to stringent environmental regulations. A portion of these expenses might be mitigated through the production of bioenergy like biodiesel. This review article offers an extensive analysis of the pre-treatment processes and the application of WCOs and WAFs in biodiesel production. The predominant method for generating biodiesel is transesterification. Additionally, this paper emphasizes the purification and examination of the biodiesel produced, along with the latest innovations in biodiesel production from WCOs and WAFs. This review concludes that both WCOs and WAFs hold great potential as feedstocks for the production of biodiesel.
Nanoparticles: improving the efficiency of drug administration across the blood-brain barrier
Authors: Wu Zhenggang
Published: September 2024

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Estimation of Metformin Hydrochloride in Bulk and Formulation by UV - Spectroscopic Area Under Curve Method
Authors: Kakade Vrushali B , Lobhe G.A. , Gandhat Snehal G. , Dhobale S. M., , Patel Salim G.
Published: September 2024

The current work is carried out for estimation of Metformin Hydrochloride   by using area under curve (AUC) method using UV-visible spectrophotometer. For this purpose the wavelength range 221-241 nm was selected. Distilled water was used as a solvent throughout the work. Linearity was observed in concentration range 5-25 µg/ml (R2= 0.994) for the method. The present method was found to be simple and linear which can be used for routine quality control analysis for spectrophotometric estimation of Metformin hydrochloride in bulk.
Keywords: Metformin Hydrochloride, Area under curve, Antidiabetic, λmax.
Constrictive pericarditis following Dressler’s syndrome induced by percutaneous coronary arteriography
Authors: Al-Bader Dalal , El-Reshaid Kamel
Published: September 2024

Constrictive pericarditis (CP) is a chronic inflammatory process characterized by chronic scarring, fibrosis and calcification of the pericardium associated with diastolic dysfunction, eventually leading to low cardiac output and heart failure. Idiopathic pericarditis remains the predominant cause of CP in the western world, followed by surgery and radiation therapy. Tuberculous pericarditis is still the leading cause of CP in developing countries and immunocompromised patients.  Dressler’s syndrome is an autoimmune pericarditis which has been rarely reported following myocardial infarction and cardiotomy cases and lately after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).  However, CP following PCI is exceedingly rare.  Herein, we report a case of CP following an uncomplicated coronary angioplasty and stenting. 
Keywords: constrictive pericarditis, Dressler’s syndrome, percutaneous coronary intervention, pericardiectomy.
Isolation and Chracterization of Ficus bengalensis Linn.
Authors: Fegade Sachin A , Siddaiah M
Published: September 2024

Medicinal herbs have a prominent role in human health care. The imposing banyan tree of poetry and legend is a store-house of invaluable remedies for some of the deadliest diseases. Ficus benghalensis Linn. synonyms being Ficus indica Linn.and Ficus cotonaeifolia belongs to the family Moraceae. Present study include phytochemical screening of Ficus benghalensis evidenced that chloroform fraction of Ficus benghalensis Linn shows comparatively better than aqueous fraction and hydro-alcoholic extract. The isolated phytochemical from chloroform fraction of Ficus benghalensis Linn was found as a white amorphous solid compound with melting point of 169-1700C and responded positively to the Salkowski’s test and Lieberman-Burchard test for steroids and triterpenes.
Keywords: Ficus benghalensis, triterpenes, heamoptysis
A simple randomized comparative study to evaluate the efficacy of 0.7% w/v Olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution and the Fixed Dose Combination of 0.1% w/v Olopatadine hydrochloride and 0.4% w/v Ketorolac tromethamine ophthalmic solution for the
Authors: Jagarlamudi Anup , Anushree E. , Harika Soma , Kavya Sri K. , Rohit Ch.
Published: September 2024

Conjunctivitis is defined as the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Allergic conjunctivitis is an acute, intermittent or chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva due to air borne allergens. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system is hypersensitive to normally harmless environmental substances, called allergens. Allergic conjunctivitis is an increasingly prevalent allergic reaction and currently 40% of global population is suffering from allergic conjunctivitis. Being an immunopathological disease, Conjunctival mast cell degranulation plays a major role in ocular allergic disease and so treatment options should be concentrated on preventing degranulation or of antagonizing the effects of the primary mediator, histamine. Commonly used medications are: Topical OTC antihistamines (eg, ketotifen) , topical prescription antihistamines (eg, olopatadine, bepotastine, alcaftadine), NSAIDs (eg, ketorolac), or mast cell stabilizers (eg, nedocromil, cromolyn, azelastine) and can be used separately or in combination. In our study, the safety profile of Olopatadine 0.7% is comparable with fixed dose combination of Olopatadine 0.1% and ketorolac tromethamine 0.4% by assessing the reduction in the severity of four parameters (ocular itching, conjunctival hyperemia, chemosis and tearing) of allergic conjunctivitis over 14 days of daily treatment. Ours is a Prospective case observational study conducted from August 2018-January 2019. A total of 80 patients were screened from the ophthalmology outpatient department. All the subjects who fulfilled eligibility criteria were randomly assigned in equal proportions into two arms i.e, group-1(patients receiving 0.7% olopatidine Hcl eye drops) & group-2( patients receiving 0.1% olopatidine Hcl+ 0.4% ketorolac tromethamine eye drops.). It was observed that there was a significant difference in the percentage reduction of all the four parameters in the group 1 (i.e; patients treated with monotherapy) than the group 2 (i.e; patients treated with combination therapy). From this we concluded that monotherapy of 0.7% Olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution was found to be more effective in  reducing the clinical signs and symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis than dual combination therapy of 0.1% Olopatadine  hydrochloride + 0.4% Ketorolac tromethamine ophthalmic solution.
Design, Characterization and In-vitro Evaluation of Superporous Hydrogel Tablets of Nimodipine
Authors: Soumya B. , Arvapalli Swarupa , Sharma J.V.C. , Nagaraju Potnuri
Published: September 2024

The present work was aimed to formulate Superporous Hydrogel tablets of Nimodipine using an effervescent approach for gastro retentive drug delivery system to improve its bioavailability by using different rate retarding polymers like plantago ovata, tamarind gum and carbopol, along with suitable excipients. All the formulations were prepared by direct compressionmethod. The prepared tablets of all the formulations were evaluated for physical characteristics, in‐vitro drug release, hardness and friability. Optimized formulation F8 containing 0.3% of plantago ovata and carbopol each was considered as the best formulation with respect to in vitro drug release for 12 hours release action. The results showed that the drug release rate was decreased as the viscosity of the polymer was increased. The drug release kinetics was performed for the optimized formulation and it shows zero orderwith non-fickian transport drug release.
Keywords: Superporous Hydrogel tablets, Nimodipine, plantago ovata, tamarind gum and carbopol, non-fickian transport drug release.
Effect of bio-adsorbents (Strychnos potatorum seed) for elimination of methyl orange dye from polluted waters
Authors: Gangwar Usma , Choubey Anita
Published: September 2024

The use of cheap, high efficiency and ecofriendly adsorbent has been studied as an alternative source of activated carbon for the removal of dye from wastewater.  Bio-adsorbents derived from plant materials of Strychnos Potatorum Seed have been probed for their surface sorption abilities towards Methyl Orange Dye using simulated waters. The parameters studied were the effect of pH, amount of adsorbent, contact time and concentration of adsorbate. Equilibrium data were fitted to the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The data were best represented by the Langmuir model with an adsorption capacity and adsorption intensity. The adsorption was found to be concentration dependent and the maximum adsorption was occurred in 3 hrs. Thus, from the results of adsorption data, it was concluded that the Strychnos potatorum seed powder was found to be excellent adsorbent for the adsorption of methyl orange dye from industrial waste water.
Keywords: Strychnos Potatorum, Methylene orange, Removal, Adsorption, Isotherm
Development of sustained release hydrophobic emulgel for oral care
Authors: Shelke Om , Sharma Maya
Published: September 2024

The objective of the study is to formulate the emulgel of Doxycyclin hyclate and Eugenol for sustained or controlled release gel for oral care. Doxycyclin hyclate is an antibiotic which belongs to chemical class tetracyclines and widely used in treatment of oral care bacterial infections. Eugenol oil is extracted from the clove and act as good analgesic and anti-inflammatory. The combination of Doxycyclin hyclate and eugenol can be formulated for better oral care treatment. The compatibility study performed of drug and drug-polymer by IR spectra indicates good compatibility. The simple manufacturing method is employed as hot emulsification. The formulations were evaluated for description, pH, viscosity, spreadability, extrudability, % drug content and content uniformity. Optimized formulations were evaluated for In-vitro release, antibacterial activity, and stability study. Formulated formulations were complying with all the evaluation parameters. The highest drug release found with the formulation OFEG 01 and OFEG 06. The formulations OFEG 06 is the most stable formulation in stability at accelerated, intermediate and room temperature storage condition for 3 months.
Keywords: Emulgel, Oral Care, Doxycyclin and Eugenol
THE Solid lipid nanoparticles A review
Authors: Patil Prashant , Harak Komal , Saudagar Ravindra
Published: September 2024

Solid lipid nanoparticles are novel drug delivery system its to improve the solubility and bioavailability of the drug it has been proved that SLN is more effective colloidal drug delivery system  because of it is more controlled and targeting properties, the SLN as colloidal drug carriers for incorporating hydrophilic or lipophilic drugs, the bioacceptable and biodegradable nature of SLN makes them less toxic as compared to polymeric nanoparticles, it has several potential applications in drug delivery, clinical medicine and research as well as in other varied science, in this present review this new approach is discussed in terms of their method of preparations, applications, advantages, characterization and other special features ,the SLN may open new therapy to treat difficult diseases like complex. 
Keywords: solid lipid nanoparticles, drug released, method of preparations.
Ethno Veterinary Medicinal Plants and Practices in Honnavar Taluk, North Kanara District of Karnataka.
Authors: Guruprasad N M , Devi Prasad A G
Published: September 2024

Ethno veterinary practices in the Western Ghats region of Honnavar in North Kanara district are being documented. Field exploration was undertaken to record the plant diversity associated with such practices. Altogether 21 plant species belonging to 20 families were recorded and different parts of plant such as bark, root, leaf, fruit and entire plant have been used.
Keywords: Ethno veterinary, Traditional healers, Western Ghats, Livestock.
A Review on Nanohybrids: Technique for Solubility Enhancement of Poorly Water Soluble Drugs
Authors: Nigal Aparna , Darekar Avinash , Saudagar Ravindranath
Published: September 2024

In order the drug bioavailable in human body must absorb it, and in oral treatments absorption takes place, after drug dissolution by diffusion of the molecules through gastrointestinal   membranes. It was found that BCS class –II drug has poor aqueous solubility in GI tract greatly influences the drug release; particularly it affects the bioavailability of drug. Solubilization of water insoluble drug is a big issue of pharmaceutical research. Nanohybrids are combination of two or more different materials with different properties of each and that are fused, by an effort to blend the best properties of both. In nanohybrids there is use of natural and synthetic polymers. The present review mainly focusing on the simple and convenient method of preparation of nanohybrids with the help of Microwave irradiation Method by using natural/synthetic carriers such as acacia, gelatin, cassia, ghatti gum, and HPMC, MC etc. to enhance the solubility of poorly water soluble BCS Class –II Drugs and improved its rate of dissolution for such drug entities which affects the bioavailability. Prepared nanohybrids can be characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, X-Ray Diffraction Studies and transmission Electron Microscopy. Further, this review mainly highlights the application and future prospective use of nanohybrids, which will help in formulation of drug with improved bioavailability.
Keywords: BCS Class II, Nanohybrids, Solubilization, Enhancement of solubility, Optimized drug dissolution and drug release.
Isolation and Characterization of Moringa Olifera Gum: A Novel Sustained Release Polymer
Authors: Santosh Kumar Rada , Renuka R.
Published: September 2024

If one were to imagine the ideal drug delivery system, two prerequisites would be required. First, it would be a single dose for the duration of treatment, whether it will be for days or weeks, as with infection, or for the lifetime of the patient, as in hypertension or diabetis. Second, it should deliver the active entity directly to the site of action, thereby minimising or eliminating side effects. This may necessitate delivery to specific receptors or to localization to cells or to specific areas of the body. In the past decade great interest got generated on replacing conventional administration of drugs by novel delivery systems which would release effective quantities from a protected supply at a controlled rate over a long period of time. Ideally a drug to provide desired therapeutic action should arrive rapidly at the site of action (receptor) in optimum concentration, remain there for desired time, spare other sites and get removed from the site. One of the interesting results of pharmaceutical research is the fact that absorption rate of a drug can be decreased by reducing its rate of release from the dosage form. The products so formulated are designed as sustained action, sustained release, delayed action, prolonged action, depot, respiratory, retarded release and timed release medication. In order to control the release of drug from its dosage form, an effective sustained release polymer is essential. Though, there are several sustained release polymers available in the market, there is continuous need to develop sustained release polymers which are safe and inexpensive. The aim of the work was to isolate and characterize the Moringa olifera gum as novel sustained release polymer.
Keywords: Isolation, Sustained release, Moringa Olifera gum
Protective role of Carica papaya and Ficus bengalensis latex against CCl4 induced liver toxicity in experimental rats
Authors: Kumar Yogendra , Gautam Girendra , Mishra Pushpesh Kumar
Published: September 2024

Objective: To study the hepatoprotective activity of  Carica Papaya Latex at the  dose 400mg/kg/b.w. per oral and Ficus Bengalensis latex at dose 300mg/kg/b.w. per oral  against CCl4  induce Hepatotoxicity in albino rats.
Method: Animals were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals in each group.
Group I – Served as a normal control received saline 1ml /Kg for 21 days. The group -II, III, IV and V animals were received CCl4 at dose 1ml/Kg b.w./day  intra- peritoneally. Animals from group –III to V received Carica Papaya Latex (400mg/Kg.p.o.), Ficus Bengalensis Latex (300mg/Kg.p.o.) and standard drug Silymarin (30mg/Kg.p.o.) once daily for 21 days.  All groups animals were sacrificed on 22 days under light ether anesthesia  . Blood sample were collected and used for bio-chemical parameters like serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), Bilirubin(BRN), Alkaline phosphate (ALP) and total protein.
Result:The results were observed that  Carica Papaya latex at dose 400 mg/kg.b.w and CCl4  treated group , Ficus Bengalensis latex at dose 300 mg/kg.B.w and CCl4  treated groups were found the decreased levels of SGPT,SGOT,, ALP and Bilirubin  and increased total protein level compare to CCl4 treated group .So that this  study indicated hepatoprotective effect .
Conclusion: Present investigation indicated that both latex of Carica papaya and Ficus Bengalensis showed significant protection against CCl4 nduced hepatotoxicity in Rats.
Keywords: Carica Papaya, Ficus Bengalensis, Hepatoprotective, Carbon Tetra Chloride, Silymarin.