bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FROM HARDSHIP TO LEADERSHIP: THE SUCCESS STORIES OF ALTERNATIVE LEARNING SYSTEMGRADUATES
Authors:   ALS, San Carlos City Division, Calepaan Integrated School, Kabanbanan National High School., Gil S. Camacho John , Marie C. Bucia Angelika ,   ALS, San Carlos City Division, Calepaan Integrated School, Kabanbanan National High School., A. Tamang Catherine ,   ALS, San Carlos City Division, Calepaan Integrated School, Kabanbanan National High School.
Published: March 2022

The existence of leaders rattled the very foundation of each community and had an impact on followers viewpoints in forming their personal beliefs. Leadership is a type of authority in which one person has the ability to influence or change the values, beliefs, conduct, and attitudes of another person.The majority of the reasons for dropping out are related to poverty. While basic education is free, many impoverished families cannot afford to pay for their childrens extracurricular activities. In actuality, almost 28 million Filipinos do not have a secondary education.To address this issue and to comply with the UNESCO Millennium Development Goal of eradicating illiteracy across nations, the Department of Education has designed a program called Alternative Learning System (ALS) to provide all Filipinos with the opportunity to have access to and complete basic education in a mode that suits their unique situations and needs. The goal of this study was to figure out why the participants opted to stop going to school. Similarly, this study investigated the challenges that participants had during studying and how the Alternative Learning System transformed their lives. ALS students should finish their degrees and pursue their goals regardless of their circumstances, according to respondents. According to the findings, ALS has a big impact on their lives, and they are grateful that the government provides ALS for students like them.
WHAT ELEMENTS CONTRIBUTE TO IMPROVING BRAIN CANCER TREATMENTS?
Authors: Laohasiripanya Napas , Jindachotsiri Nichapa , Juengpanich Suranchana
Published: March 2022

Brian cancer is a serious disease that has recently been discovered in an increasing number of people. It isnt a simple problem to solve, and it involves several procedures to overcome it. Brain cancer is also the 10th biggest cause of mortality for both men and women, according to Cancer.Net. In the coming years, it is also expected that 18,600 persons (10,500 men and 8,100 women) will die from primary malignant brain and CNS tumors. Moreover, people with a malignant brain or CNS tumor have a 36 percent 5-year survival rate. Although there are numerous therapies for brain cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiation, the death rate remains high, and those treatments arent the most comfortable. As a result, complementary therapies and other supplements are utilized to promote the health and well-being of brain cancer patients. Workout, diet, acupuncture, aromatherapy, talking therapy, and music are some of the various treatments discussed in this article. The primary goal of this article is to learn more about the aspects that can help improve and enhance the success of brain cancer treatment. Furthermore, to investigate and research the advantages of each aspect, as well as how it might be used in future medical treatments.
CHANGE IN LIFESTYLE AND DIETARY HABITS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors:   Ph.D. Student, College of Community Science, CSKHPKV Palampur 176062., Rai Vaid Nivedhika , Verma Ranjana ,   Professor, College of Community Science, CSKHPKV Palampur 176062.
Published: March 2022

On December 2019, the outbreak of a novel infection coronavirus(SARS-CoV2) became a global pandemic and named as Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) World Health Organization (WHO). On 22 March, 2020 the Prime Minister of India announced and 14 hours public curfew and from 24 March, 2020 suddenly announced complete lockdown. The complete lockdown in India made changes in the living habits and dietary pattern of public. To study the impact of COVID-19 Pandemic lockdown in India the online survey was conducted on 72 subjects, which was based on their lifestyle and dietary habits, among the family, friends, relatives and colleagues of different age groups due to lockdown.
BIOMEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT - AN UPDATE ON COVID 19
Authors:   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research., Susan Joy Anu , Jawa Deepti ,   Professor, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research., Somani Rani ,   Professor and Head of the Department, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research., Jaidka Shipra ,   Professor, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research., Madhu Aiswarya ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research., P. Deepa ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research., S Anaswara ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research., M.S Serene ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Science and Research.
Published: March 2022

The concept of environmental hygiene and sanitation has been there in India since the time of Rig Veda. Biomedical waste is the most dangerous waste in the world . It pose a significant impact on health and the environment. Management of the bio medical waste which is becoming a challenging issue in India. Since the implementation of biomedical waste management rule 1998, every concerned health care professional should have knowledge about proper management and disposal of the biomedical waste. Protected and effective execution of waste management rules is not only a legal necessity but also a social liability. There is urgent need of extensive study on this medical waste and its management aspects. Proper waste management strategy is needed to ensure health and environmental safety.
A REVIEW OF MASTALGIA IN PATIENTS WITH FIBROCYSTIC BREAST CHANGES COMPAIRINGEFFECTIVENESS OF CENTCHROMAN
Authors:   Senior Resident, Dept. of Gen.Surgery, GSVM Medical College, Kanpur., Kumar Karnwal Sachin , Pokhariya B.M.S ,   Asistant Professor, MS Genral Surgery, Dept. of Surgery TSM Medical collage Lucknow, GSVM Medical Collage Kanpur.
Published: March 2022

Background:Mastalgia and fibrocystic disease of breast (fibroadenosis and fibroadenomaare common among the women in reproductive age group.Mostof the drugs used for these conditions are expensive and have side effects.Centchroman is a novel ono-steroidal antiestrogen,becouse of its selective antiestrogenic action cantchroman used for the treatment of mastagia and fibroadenoma.Centchroman therapy in FA treatment showed statistically significant regression of volume.and regression of pain. AimsandObjectives:-The purpose of this study is to study the effectiveness of centchroman on mastalgias and fibroadenomasStudy design:Randomized control trial Material: 60 Patients Study and follow-up period 1 Year Materials and mathods:Patients attending general surgery op with complaints of breast lump less than35 yrs of age will be taken detailed clinical history, clinical examination, ultrasonagram (USG) of both breast and fine needle aspiration (FNAC)/ core needle biopsy Patients who are all diagnosed as fibroadenoma (FA) and willing for simple observation with reassurance at least for 6 months will be included in this study after getting informed consent randomization included in study group and control group. Patients in study group will get Centchroman 30mg orally on alternative days and for control group patients only observation with simple assurance. Study group patients will be reviewed after 1week to check tolerance and later follow-up at 4, 12, and 24 weeks. USG will be done at 0 days, 4, 12 and 24 weeks for both groups to assess regression Results:The study showed statistical difference in fibroadenoma patients with significant reduction in their sizes in patients treated with centchroman even at 4th week. Further the difference between study and control group became statistically highly significant at 12th and 24thweek.The study did not show any statistical difference in mastalgia patients treated with centchroman at 4th and 8th week. But the difference between study and control group became statistically significant at 12th and 24th week with greater reduction in pain. Conclusions:Centchroman therapy in FA treatment showed statistically significant regression of volume.Centchroman therapy inmastalgias treatment showed statistically significant regression of pain,Long term results beyond 6 months needs further study.It is useful in patient who is willing for observation instead of enucleation of FA .Patients more than 35 yrs old and young patients (<35 yrs) with suspicious histology, recurrence, family h/o carcinoma breast, anxiousness and no response to conservative management are the ideal candidate for active management as excisional biopsy ( enucleation of FA).
Implementasi Permainan Ular Tangga Raksasa dalam Mengembangkan Kognitif Anak Usia Dini
Authors: Prihatini Vinda Ayu , Mursid Mursid
Published: March 2022

This study discusses the implementation of the giant snake and ladder game in developing the cognitive development of early childhood group B at RA Harapan Ummi, Semarang City in the 2021/2022 academic year which includes the implementation of the giant snake and ladder game in developing cognitive and also about the supporting factors and inhibiting factors for the implementation of the snake and ladder game. giant. This research is motivated because the problems of early childhood development in group B at RA Harapan Ummi have not developed optimally.This study uses a descriptive qualitative research method, where the author makes a factual, accurate and systematic description of the event being studied. Data collection techniques from this study were carried out by observation, interviews and documentation.The results of this study indicate that the implementation of the giant snake and ladder game in developing the cognitive development of early childhood group B at RA Harapan Ummi, Semarang City has been successful. Supporting factors include: the availability of facilities and infrastructure that is quite complete at RA Harapan Ummi, Semarang city, making it easier for students to learn, the use of educational game tools in the form of a giant snake and ladder and practiced directly, collaboration between educators and parents to discuss children's development. and the inhibiting factor is the presence of children who are hyperactive and interfere with other friends while playing.
Flat sheet metakaolin ceramic membrane for water desalination via direct contact membrane distillation
Authors: Zewdie Tsegahun Mekonnen , Habtu Nigus Gabbiye , Dutta Abhishek , Van der Bruggen Bart
Published: March 2022

Hydrophobic metakaolin-based flat sheet membrane was developed via phase inversion and sintering technique and modified through 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane grafting agents. The prepared membrane was characterized by different techniques such as XRD, FTIR, SEM, contact angle, porosity, and mechanical strength. Their results indicated that the wettability, structural, and mechanical properties of the prepared membrane confirm the suitability of the material for membrane distillation (MD) application. The prepared metakaolin-based flat sheet membrane acquired hydrophobic properties after surface modification with the water contact angle values of 113.2° to 143.3°. Afterward, the membrane performance was tested for different sodium chloride aqueous solutions (synthetic seawater) and various operating parameters (feed temperature, feed flow rate) using direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD). Based on the findings, the prepared membrane at metakaolin loading of 45 wt.% and sintered at 1,300 °C was achieved the best performance with >95% salt rejection and permeate flux of 6.58 ± 0.3 L/m2 · h at feed temperature of 80 °C, feed concentration of 35 g/L, and feed flow rate of 60 L/h. It can be concluded that further optimization of membrane porosity, mechanical, and surface properties is required to maximize the permeate flux and salt rejection.
FACTORS OF POTENTIAL HAZARD OF REGOLITH MICROELEMENT COMPOSITION TO THE HEALTH OF FUTURE SETTLERS ON THE MOON
Authors:   South-Russian State Polytechnic University (Novocherkassk Polytechnic Institute) named after M.I. Platov, Novocherkassk, Gavrishin A.I. , Ivanov I.V. ,   Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University
Published: March 2022

The paper gives quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the lunar soil microelements, and potential hazard to the health of future Moon settlers. Chemical composition of regoliths from 4 lunar regions was analyzed and compared to terrestrial soil clarkes. Object of the investigation was regolith samples obtained from the mare regions in the missions of Luna-16, -24 and Apollo-11, -12. It was found that concentrations of microelements Cr, Ni, Co, Be, Sc, Y, Au, Ag as well as the majority of lanthanides were much higher than in terrestrial soils. The direct contact with high concentration of these elements is likely to endanger the health of settlers on the Moon.
GENOTOXICITY OF METAL-CONTAINING NANOPARTICLES
Authors:   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, Angarsk, Kapustina E.A. , Titov E.A. ,   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, Angarsk, Novikov М.А. ,   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, Angarsk
Published: March 2022

No more than 100 nm large, nanoparticles (NPs) are distinguished by unusual mechanical, electrical, optical, thermal and magnetic properties. They are used in biology, pharmacology, medicine, chemistry, physics, materials technology and engineering industry. Nanoparticles penetrate in organism through the skin, GIT and airways. Their genotoxicity depends on size, form, mode of action and composition. Two principal mechanisms of NPs genotoxicity are primary and secondary. The primary mechanism is realized in direct interaction with the genome; the secondary mechanism is achieved through mediation of the active forms of oxygen. NPs can modulate the epigenome by altering the gene functions and do not change the DNA sequence directly. Consequences of prolonged exposure to low NPs doses on the human organism still remain uninvestigated.
La evaluación del docente. Representaciones de profesores de educación básica
Authors: García Reyes Jesús , Piña Osorio Juan Manuel
Published: March 2022

El objetivo de este artículo es exponer las representaciones sociales sobre la evaluación docente expresadas por 109 profesores. Se aplicó una asociación de palabras con el término inductor “evaluación al profesor”. A los participantes se les pidió que escribieran tres definidoras, las jerarquizaran y escribieran el significado atribuido a cada una. Los resultados se concentran en tres representaciones: de aceptación, de rechazo y de deber de la evaluación. El mayor porcentaje del peso semántico lo obtuvo la representación de aceptación; en segundo lugar, la del deber, y, en tercer lugar, la del rechazo. Estos datos indican que los profesores participantes en esta investigación no le temen a la evaluación, sino a la forma en que esta se aplica, a la imposición gubernamental, a la explicitación del castigo y al papel de los medios de comunicación en la estigmatización del profesor, lo cual contribuye a la resistencia de un sector del magisterio.
El robo a micronegocios y su interrelación con el entorno. Un comparativo por género para la Zona Metropolitana de Monterrey
Authors: Alvarado Lagunas Elías , Ortiz Rodríguez Jeyle , Martínez Treviño Elena Slovenia , Iturralde Mota Óscar
Published: March 2022

La presente investigación analiza los efectos de las características de localización y vecindario sobre la probabilidad de que un micronegocio emprendido por una mujer sea objeto de robo en una de las metrópolis más importantes de México: la Zona Metropolitana de Monterrey. El método utilizado consistió en un análisis descriptivo de la geografía del robo y la aplicación de un modelo de elección discreta binaria. Los datos para tal efecto fueron recopilados de los reportes de la Procuraduría General de Justicia del Estado de Nuevo León del año 2016. Entre los principales resultados se encontró que las mujeres sufren menos robos que los hombres debido a las características de vecindario y, en menor medida, de localización, en particular en los municipios de Monterrey, Santa Catarina, Guadalupe y Apodaca.
Tomás Calvillo Unna. El rapto de la interioridad
Authors: Fonseca Patrón Ana Laura
Published: March 2022

El texto es una reseña de manera ensayística el texto de Calvillo, T. (2018). El rapto de la interioridad, San Luis Potosí, México: El colegio de San Luis. Se toman como ejes conductores de la lectura algunos supuestos sobre la relación entre ciencia, tecnología y sociedad que se considera son criticados de forma tácita dentro del texto de Calvillo. A través del análisis de cómo se presentan estos supuestos en muchas de las situaciones que plantea Calvillo a lo largo de su libro y cómo el los crítica, se hace patente la respuesta que Calvillo esboza para la vorágine de la vida moderna. La reseña concluye sugiriendo que algunos estudios de ciencias cognitivas, en particular de cognición situada, corporizada y distribuida pueden ayudar en el entendimiento de la vía planteada por Calvillo.
La interioridad en la era tecnológicaTomás Calvillo Unna (2018). El rapto de la interioridad. El Colegio de San Luis.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21696/rcsl102120201218
Género y extractivismo minero. Experiencias femeninas de movilización en Zacatecas y Puebla (México)
Authors: Vázquez García Verónica , Martínez González Rocío , Sosa Capistrán Dulce María
Published: March 2022

En este artículo se documenta y analiza la participación de las mujeres en las movilizaciones en contra de dos proyectos mineros en México: Mina del Toro, que sigue operando en Zacatecas, y Mina Espejeras, Puebla, cuya apertura fue detenida temporalmente. Se comparan dos casos de resistencia civil a partir de los datos obtenidos de 13 entrevistas en profundidad realizadas en ambos estados y de la información de gabinete. El número de entrevistas es escaso porque muchas personas se negaron a colaborar por la existencia del conflicto mismo. Se encontró que la motivación de las mujeres para involucrarse en las movilizaciones antimineras es la destrucción del hábitat, la contaminación del agua y la degradación del aire; asimismo, que en ambos casos las mujeres vivieron las movilizaciones de manera similar, pero los resultados son muy distintos en el ámbito comunitario. Este artículo hace una aportación a la literatura sobre conflictos socioambientales con perspectiva de género, perspectiva que ha sido poco atendida.
Immunoliposomes: A Targeted Drug Delivery System for Cancer
Therapeutics and Vaccination
Authors: Gupta Jitendra , Gupta Reena , Pathak Abhishek
Published: March 2022

Cancer has become one of the world's most lethal and life-threatening disorders, resulting
in many deaths. Drug targeting and managing drug delivery are concepts that are implemented to
increase a drug's therapeutic index by enhancing its specificity to particular cells, tissues, or organs
and reducing its action and harmful side effects. Liposomes have proven to be one of the most innovative
drug delivery systems in medicine. Immunoliposomes, also known as antibody-coupled
liposomes, have gained a lot of attention as a homing device for targeted therapies. Monoclonal antibodies
or antibody fragments that combine with liposomes to create immunoliposomes have been
considered a leading technique for targeted delivery. Various functionalization strategies are adopted
for the non-covalent and covalent binding of monoclonal antibodies and their components to liposomal
surfaces, such as thiolation, amide bonds, hydrazone bonds, and electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic
interactions, hydrogen bonding, etc. for cancer-specific targeting. This provides an overview
of various stimulus-responsive immunoliposomes capable of regulating drug release in response
to an exogenous magnetic field, changes in temperature or pH, enzyme concentration, endogenous
stimuli, and applications of immunoliposomes in vaccination and cancer therapeutics and
endogenous immune response stimulation.
Design and Synthesis of Novel Celecoxib Analogues with Potential Cytotoxic
and Pro-apoptotic Activity against Breast Cancer Cell Line MCF-7
Authors: Abdelhaleem Eman F. , Kassab Asmaa E. , El-Nassan Hala B. , Khalil Omneya M.
Published: March 2022

Background:

Breast cancer is currently the leading cause of worldwide cancer incidence
exceeding lung cancer. In addition, breast cancer accounts for 1 in 4 cancer cases and 1 in 6 cancer
deaths among women. Cytotoxic chemotherapy is still the main therapeutic approach for patients
with metastatic breast cancer.

Objective:

The aim of the study was to synthesize a series of novel celecoxib analogues to evaluate
their anticancer activity against the MCF-7 cell line.

Method:

Our design of target compounds was based on preserving the pyrazole moiety of celecoxib
attached to two phenyl rings, one of them having a polar hydrogen bonding group (sulfonamide or
methoxy group). The methyl group of the second phenyl ring was replaced with chlorine or bromine
atom. Finally, the trifluoromethyl group was replaced with arylidene hydrazine-1-carbonyl moiety,
which is substituted either with fluoro or methoxy group, offering various electronic and lipophilic
environments. These modifications were carried out to investigate their effects on the antiproliferative
activity of the newly synthesized celecoxib analogues and to provide a valuable structure-
activity relationship.

Results:

Four compounds, namely 4e-h, exhibited significant antitumor activity. Compounds 4e, 4f
and 4h showed 1.2-2 folds more potent anticancer activity than celecoxib. Celecoxib analogue 4f
showed the most potent anti-proliferative activity. Its anti-proliferative activity seems to associate
well with its ability to inhibit BCL-2. Moreover, activation of the damage response pathway of the
DNA leads to cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and accumulation of cells in the pre-G1 phase,
indicating that cell death proceeds through an apoptotic mechanism. Compound 4f exhibited a potent
pro-apoptotic effect via induction of the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. This mechanistic
pathway was proved by a significant increase in the expression of the tumor suppressor gene
p53, elevation in Bax/BCL-2 ratio, and a significant increase in the level of active caspase-7. Furthermore,
compound 4f showed moderate COX-2 inhibitory activity.

Conclusion:

Celecoxib analogue 4f is a promising multi-targeted lead for the design and synthesis of
potent anticancer agents.
Pregabalin Induced Maculopapular Eruption in an Elderly Male
Authors: Kaur Upinder , Jaiswal Sumit , Chakrabarti Sankha Shubhra , Rai Tulika , Dhameja Neeraj , Mohan Atul , Yadav Vandana
Published: March 2022

Pregabalin is used in the treatment of neuropathic pain of various etiologies and as adjuvant in epilepsy. Blockade of the α2δ subunit of L and N type Ca-channels is its main mechanism of neurotropic action. Compared to other antiepileptics like phenytoin, valproate and lamotrigine, and other neuropathic pain medications such as amitriptyline and duloxetine, pregabalin has a relatively favorable safety profile and hence is a drug of choice for many geriatricians. Here we describe a case of maculopapular rash induced by pregabalin in an elderly man which resolved with withdrawal of the offending drug and conservative management. We have also conducted a literature review of similar cases and highlight the clinical patterns and management strategies for pregabalin induced skin rashes.
Economic crises and the reform programs
Authors: Ishker Nermeen , Youssef Jamile
Published: March 2022

Lebanon has been passing through considerable difficulties as a result of compounded economic and financial degradation. Therefore, a comprehensive adjustment program is necessary. The aim of this research is to describe different reform plans applied by countries that have undergone economic and financial crises. More particularly, it discusses nations that implemented the International Monetary Fund reform programs; the purpose, plan, requirements and policies of the program are also identified. Furthermore, this paper highlights the reasons behind the success or failure of a nation in implementing a development program to anticipate whether an agreement with the IMF will be the solution for the Lebanese case.
What Providers Know vs. What Providers Do: Barriers to Contraception in Adolescents
Authors: Durr, BS Andrya J. , Critch, MBA Elizabeth A. , Fitzgerald, PhD M. Paula , Fuller, MD Kylie A. , Devlin, MD Kelly M. , Renzelli-Cain, DO, MHS, NCMP, FACOG, IF Roberta I.
Published: March 2022

INTRODUCTION The teenage birth rate in West Virginia (WV) remains among the highest in the United States. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) as first-line contraception. Because WV teenagers' LARC use is exceptionally low, the objective of this study was to gain insight into the current knowledge, practice, and beliefs of health care providers (HCP) in WV regarding LARC for adolescent patients. METHODS An electronic survey using Qualtrics.com was distributed to WV HCPs. Of the 2,196 HCPs contacted, 132 respondents returned the survey, and 109 completed usable data. RESULTS A majority of HCPs were aware that LARC (i.e., intrauterine devices and implantable devices) is the first line recommendation of the ACOG and AAP for adolescent birth control. However, HCPs most frequently prescribed combination oral contraceptives and injectables, which are not first-line recommendations. Notably, 59% of HCPs prescribing combination oral contraceptives believed they were prescribing according to COG and AAP recommendations. Forty-one percent of HCPs knew that combination oral contraceptives were not a first-line recommendation but prescribed them most often. The most frequently identified most important reason for not prescribing LARC was that the HCP did not know how to place them (16.5% of respondents), followed by litigious or malpractice action if there is a malfunction or complication (4.6% of respondents). DISCUSSION These results indicate a need to provide adequate LARC training to HCPs in WV.
Recommendations From a Chinese-Language Survey of Knowledge and Prevention of Skin Cancer Among Chinese Populations Internationally: Cross-sectional Questionnaire Study (Preprint)
Authors: Chen Lily Ye , Niu Wei , Lim Kristina , Solomon James A
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of studies assessing awareness and prevention of skin cancer among Chinese populations.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to compare attitudes and practices regarding skin cancer risks and prevention between Chinese Asian and North American Chinese populations and between Fitzpatrick scores.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, internet-based, 74-question survey in Chinese was conducted focusing on Han Chinese participants internationally. The survey included Likert-type scales and multiple-choice questions. All participants were required to read Chinese and self-identify as being 18 years or older and Chinese by ethnicity, nationality, or descent. Participants were recruited on the internet over a 6-month period from July 2017 through January 2018 via advertisements in Chinese on popular social media platforms: WeChat, QQ, Weibo, Facebook, and Twitter.

RESULTS

Of the 113 completed responses collected (participation rate of 65.7%), 95 (84.1%) were ethnically Han Chinese, of which 93 (96.9%) were born in China and 59 (62.1%) were female. The mean age of these 95 participants was 35.8 (SD 13.3) years; 72 (75.8%) participants were born after 1975. Few but more North American Chinese reported that Chinese Asian populations received annual skin checks (4/30, 4.2% vs 0/65, 0%; P=.009) and believed that their clinician provided adequate sun safety education (13/30, 43.3% vs 15/65, 23.1%; P=.04). Participants with higher Fitzpatrick scores less frequently received sun safety education from a clinician (4/34, 11.8% vs 22/61, 36.1%; P=.02). More participants with lower Fitzpatrick scores used sunscreen (41/61, 67.2% vs 16/34, 47.1%; P=.05), but alternative sun protection use rates are similar across groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Cultural differences and Fitzpatrick scores can affect knowledge and practices with respect to sun protection and skin cancer among social media–using Chinese Asian and North American Chinese communities based on respondent demographics. Most participants in all groups understood that people of color have some risk of skin cancer, but >30% of all groups across regions and Fitzpatrick scores are unaware of current skin protection recommendations, receive insufficient sun safety education, and do not use sunscreen. Outreach efforts may begin broadly with concerted public and private efforts to train and fund dermatologists to perform annual total body skin exams and provide more patient education. They should spark community interest through mass media and empower Chinese people to perform self-examinations and recognize risks and risk mitigation methods.
Multi-operator self-exclusion is a viable harm reduction option for problem gamblers, but many self-excluders relapse despite self-exclusion on a predominantly online gambling market (Preprint)
Authors: Håkansson Anders , Åkesson Gunny
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Voluntary self-exclusion from gambling is a common harm reduction option for individuals with gambling problems. Multi-operator, nationwide self-exclusion services are rare, and a system introduced in the highly online-based gambling market of Sweden is a rare and recent example. However, where online casino and online betting are the predominating gambling types in those seeking treatment, the risk of breaching one’s own self-exclusion through overseas online operators may be high.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the prevalence of nationwide Spelpaus (‘gambling break’) self-exclusion, and the prevalence of gambling despite self-exclusion, in patients seeking treatment for gambling disorder in 2021.

METHODS

Health care documentation of recent treatment seekers (January 1 through September 1, 2021, N=85, 73 percent men) in a Swedish treatment facility was reviewed for data regarding problematic gambling types reported, history of self-exclusion, and history of breaching of that self-exclusion.

RESULTS

Common problem gambling types were online casino (66 percent) and sports betting (26 percent). All women reported online casino gambling. Self-exclusion history was common (81 percent). Among self-excluders, gambling despite self-exclusion was common (68 percent), most commonly on non-licensed online gambling sites.

CONCLUSIONS

The nationwide, multi-operator self-exclusion service of Sweden appears to reach many patients with gambling disorder. However, remaining gambling options in an online gambling setting present a major challenge despite self-exclusion. This recent data calls for further treatment efforts and for potential improvements in services aiming to help voluntary self-excluders abstain from gambling.
Evaluation of Lactobacillus Coryniformis K8 Consumption by Health Care Workers Exposed to COVID-19 (LactoCor2 Project): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Rodríguez-Blanque Raquel , Sánchez-García Juan Carlos , Cobos Vargas Angel , Leyva Martínez M Socorro , Martínez Diz Silvia , Cortés-Martín Jonathan , Tovar-Gálvez María Isabel
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Lactobacillus coryniformis K8 CECT5711 has immune-modulating properties, enhances the immune response to viral antigens leading to the production of specific antibodies, and has anti-inflammatory activity, which may help to prevent uncontrolled inflammatory processes leading to respiratory and other organ failures.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of the consumption of a probiotic strain on the incidence and severity of COVID-19 in health personnel who carry out their professional work among patients with infection or suspected infection by SARS-CoV-2.

METHODS

This is a double-blind randomized clinical trial in which the experimental group will receive a capsule of L coryniformis K8 per day (3×109 colony former units/day), and the control group will receive a daily placebo capsule consisting of maltodextrin. A sample size of 314 volunteers was calculated. Volunteers must meet the following inclusion criteria: older than 20 years and active health personnel caring for patients with COVID-19, including all professionals such as medical doctors, nurses, and caretakers at the 2 referral hospitals that treat patients with COVID-19. The main outcome of the clinical trial will be the incidence of symptomatic infection by SARS-CoV-2 in personnel who care for patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.

RESULTS

The study had to be extended to the 2 referral hospitals that treat patients with COVID-19 in the province of Granada (Andalusia, Spain); Hospital San Cecilio and Hospital Virgen de las Nieves. A total of 255 individuals met the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to one of the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this randomized controlled trial will provide valuable information regarding the administration of L coryniformis K8 against COVID-19, including whether there are fewer infectious processes due to this virus or, in case of occurrence, whether the disease is milder in participants taking the probiotic strain.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04366180; http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04366180

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR1-10.2196/37857
Chewing gum supplemented with Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra extract for pH detecting of artificial saliva
Authors: Indriyantari Fifit , Pratiwi Aprilia Nur , Andian Rizky Septiano , Sugiharta Ida Bagus Alit Rai , Nuryanti Archadian
Published: March 2022

The prevalence of oral diseases in Indonesia is 25,9% in 2018, the highest percentage is recorded being caused to dental caries. Oral condition which may be acidic due to foods is potential to cause dental caries, as oral bacteria activities such as S. mutans may transform foods into becoming acids. In current condition, it is difficult for people to detect their own acid and base oral condition independently. This study aimed to create an innovation of a chewing gum supplemented with red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra) extract which has functions as oral pH detector. The chewing gum was made by mixing the maceration extract of red cabbage and gumbase. This study was performed by using a qualitative test of pH 1-13 buffer solution colour change and pH 5-9 artificial saliva which was added by the extract, and then tested with manufactured chewing gum. Anthocyanin level was tested by using a 520 and 700 nm UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The study resulted in colour change in colour qualitative test. On pH 5-9 artificial saliva, colour change happened in order of orange, orange-brown, brown, brown-green, and green, after it was mixed with chewing gum. Colour compatibility test on chewing gum and artificial saliva showed a compatibility percentage of 80. Chewing gum supplemented with red cabbage can be used as pH detector of pH 5-9 artificial saliva.
Differences in maturity pattern between mandibular posterior teeth and sagittal skeletal malocclusion
Authors: Prativi Shinta Amini , Firman Ria Noor , Sam Belly , Laviana Avi
Published: March 2022

The availability of X-rays in dentistry may help visualize the stage of development of dental maturity. The high prevalence of malocclusion in a population and contradictory research results on dental maturation in each skeletal malocclusion encourage the authors to know the maturity pattern of the posterior mandibular teeth in each skeletal relation and the difference in women and men. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample size of 214 panoramic and cephalometric radiographs from skeletal malocclusion patients based on ANB angle (class I: 73, class II: 75, class III: 56) with an age ranging from 8 to16 years old. Maturation of the second premolar and second molar was assessed using Demirjian method. Statistical analysis used the non-parametric Kruskal Wallis test to show the difference in maturity patterns in each class of skeletal relations and Mann Whitney test to show the difference in females’ and males’ maturity patterns. There were significant differences in females and males dental maturity patterns in which female dental maturation was advanced than male. Differences in each skeletal relationare not significant.
SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES OF REBAMIPIDE: FORMULATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND IN VIVO PHARMACOKINETIC EVALUATION
Authors: NIHARIKA GIRISH MIRMEERA , K. KANNAN
Published: March 2022

Objective: Rebamipide (REB) is a gastroprotective agent used to treat ulcers and gastritis throughout the stomach. Rebamipide is a BCS class IV drug with low oral bioavailability of less than 10%. The objective of this study was to develop an REB-SLNs formulation for oral administration to improve the bioavailability of rebamipide.
Methods: The hot homogenization and ultrasonication methods were used to prepare the REB-SLNs. Lipids are dynasan 114, dynasan 116, dynasan 114, imwitor 900 P. Non-ionic surfactants are poloxamer 188, polysorbate 80, and lipoid E 80 act as an amphoteric stabilizing agent used in the formulation. Developed SLNs were evaluated for particle size, PDI, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, drug content, in vitro release, stability studies, and in vivo pharmacokinetic profile.
Results: The optimized REB SLNs (F9) formulation prepared with Dynassan 114 contains an average particle size of 234±3.5 nm, PDI of 0.228±0.05, ZP of-24.58±2.63mV, drug content of 99.89±0.04%, and entrapment efficiency of 96.15±0.32%. DSC studies revealed that no interactions occurred between drugs and excipients. SEM studies showed that SLNs were nearly spherical. In vitro drug release of the optimized formulation, F9 was 91.61% in 24 h as sustained drug release. The optimized formulation was stable under refrigeration and room temperature for three months. Invivo pharmacokinetic studies of optimized formulation (F9) exhibited higher Cmax and AUC values relative to the coarse suspension.
Conclusion: Compared to the reference standard coarse suspension, the relative bioavailability of the developed formulation of REB-SLNs of dynasan 114 and combination of poloxamer 188 and polysorbate 80 (F9) was increased by 3.87 times.
A VALIDATED STABILITY INDICATING RP-HPLC METHOD FOR ESTIMATION OF AVAPRITINIB IN BULK AND TABLET DOSAGE FORM
Authors: MISHRA SUVASISH , SARKER KOUSHIK , GHOSH AVIJIT , SAHA ABHIJIT , SEN SUBRATA
Published: March 2022

Objective: The present investigation aims to develop a simple, cost effective, and reliable stability-indicating RP-HPLC assay method for analysis of avapritinib in bulk and the tablet dosage form.
Methods: The method was developed using Acetonitrile and Methanol in a ratio of 70:30 (v/v) as the mobile phase, flowing at a rate of 1 ml/min, in an isocratic mode. A reverse phase column (Symmetry C18 column, 250 mm x 4.6 mm, 5 µm) was used as the stationary phase. The detection of the compound was made using a UV detector set at 245 nm. The validation and force degradation studies of the method were done following the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines.
Results: The method was validated using the prescribed parameters like system suitability, LOD, LOQ, accuracy, precision, robustness, specificity etc. The relative standard deviation (% RSD) of the peak area observed in each case was found within the accepted range (< 2%). The tailing factor and the plate count were found to be less than 2 and more than 2000 respectively in each observation.  The coefficient of correlation (r2) value in the linearity study was found to be 0.9997. The drug was found to be quantified accurately in presence of its degraded products.
Conclusion: The developed simple and economic method is a suitable option for the qualitative and quantitative study of avapritinib in bulk and tablets even in presence of its degraded products which may arise because of oxidation, hydrolysis, thermal and photolytic decomposition.
OVERVIEW OF MITOXANTRONE-A POTENTIAL CANDIDATE FOR TREATMENT OF BREAST CANCER
Authors: S. PREETHI , KUMAR HITESH , RAWAL VISHAL B. , AJMEER RAMKISHAN , JAIN VIKAS
Published: March 2022

Anthraquinones are one of the popular classes of aromatic compounds which possess potential anticancer properties by suppressing the nucleic acid formation and proteins essential to the survival of cancerous cells. Mitoxantrone (MT) is an antibiotic and antineoplastic agent belonging to the anthracycline class of compounds which exhibit minimal incident of drug resistance. It is a synthetic anticancer drug, bound to enzyme topoisomerase IIα inhibitor, and intercalates DNA topoisomerase IIα, preventing re-ligations in DNA strands fragmentation and disruption of DNA repair. The expression of this enzyme was used tumor cells marker because of its key function in cell proliferation. The cleavable complex of topoisomerase IIα is hypothesized to damage the DNA and may enhance apoptosis in tumor cell proliferation. The susceptibility of cells to mitoxantrone is associated with cell topoisomerase II α protein and lowered resistance in breast cancer line cell lines to topoisomerase IIα inhibitors. MT is an ABC-transporter in breast cancer, also designated to be associated with “Breast cancer resistance protein” (BCRP) and it is also a cell cycle non-specific anti-cancer drug and P-glycoprotein substrate. Multiple drug resistance is one of the major drawbacks of this drug which can be avoided by reducing the efflux of the drug from cancer cells by formulating drug by using lipophilic carriers. This manuscript discusses about MT's source, chemistry, physicochemical properties, anti-cancer effects of mitoxantrone and possible pathways, Mitoxantrone targeting topoisomerase II inhibitor for cancer therapy and its mechanism, Various Nano formulation development strategy, toxicity profile, and a few patents related information.
DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PEGYLATED CAPECITABINE LIPOSOMAL FORMULATIONS WITH ANTICANCER ACTIVITY TOWARDS COLON CANCER
Authors: PADMASREE M. , VISHWANATH B. A.
Published: March 2022

Objective: Capecitabine is widely used in colorectal cancer treatment and has first-pass metabolism problem. Despite of its promising anticancer potential, capecitabine has not been used due to its poor solubility in water. The purpose of this study was to develop colon targeting capecitabine loaded stealth liposomes, which is a promising technique to avoid first-pass metabolism to achieve the desired bioavailability profile, increased water solubility and sustained release.
Methods: Thin film hydration method was used to prepare capecitabine stealth liposomes. Prepared liposomes were characterized for drug release kinetics, stability studies, cell viability studies to determine the cytotoxic effect and in vivo studies in mice bearing colon carcinoma for evaluation of antitumor potential.
Results: In vitro releases of liposomes were best fitted in the Higuchi matrix kinetic model with an n value from 0.868-0.964, indicating non-fickian release diffusion. Stability data indicated that liposomes were stable for at least 06 mo at 5±3 ° C. inhibiting activity was increased and with a Significant improvement in AUC, MRT and t1/2 observed as 29.65±5.08, µg h/ml for Stealth liposomes compared with the pure capecitabine and the conventional liposomes.
Conclusion: Results suggested that Capecitabine-loaded stealth liposomes can be an effective delivery system for targeting colon cancer.
LOXOPROFEN NANOSPONGES: FORMULATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND EX-VIVO STUDY
Authors: HAMZA MANAL Y. , ABD EL AZIZ ZEINAB RAGHEB , ALY KASSEM MOHAMED , EL- NABARAWI MOHAMED AHMED
Published: March 2022

Objective: The objective of this study is to optimize a nanosponge formulation for Loxoprofen and then incorporating it into a gel formulation offering a controlled drug release, enhanced skin permeation and thus better bioavailability.
Methods: Loxoprofen nanosponges were prepared using the emulsion solvent diffusion method and formulated using Polyvinyl alcohol, Ethylcellulose and Dichloromethane. The effect of the different formulation variables like ethyl cellulose: polyvinyl alcohol ratio, drug: ethyl cellulose ratio, stirring time, stirring speed, internal phase volume and external phase volume on the particle size, entrapment efficiency, production yield, polydispersity index and Zeta potential was investigated. The optimized nanosponge formulation was incorporated into a gel. The loaded gel was evaluated by in vitro release and permeation studies and the results were compared to that of a marketed formulation (Loxonin® gel).
Results: The optimized formulation showed 67.29±1.19 % entrapment efficiency, 239.8±16.95 nm particle size and-8.32±0.87 mV Zeta potential. The drug was released slowly from the nanosponge-loaded gel where the cumulative percentage of drug released was only 77.71±0.42 % in 8 h where it was incorporated in the entrapped form while it was 99.31±0.64% from Loxonin® gel where it was in the unentrapped form. The cumulative percent of drug permeated through the skin from the nanosponge-loaded gel was 98.66±0.14% for 24 h while it was only 60.38±0.18% from Loxonin® gel.
Conclusion: The nanosponge-loaded gel showed more sustained drug release and a better drug permeation when compared to a marketed gel (Loxonin® gel).
QUALITY EVALUATION OF BRANDS OF PROPRANOLOL HCL TABLETS AVAILABLE ON IRAQI MARKET
Authors: ABDUL-HASAN MAZIN THAMIR , MOHAMMED JAWAD KRAR KADHIM , NEAMAH Al-SHAIBANI ABULFADHEL JABER , HASAN AL-GBURI KARRAR MOHAMMED
Published: March 2022

Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the quality control of marketed tablets containing propranolol hydrochloride available on the Iraqi market and manufactured by different companies.
Methods: Different batches of propranolol hydrochloride 40 mg tablets were assessed using quality control tests. Weight variation, diameter, thickness, friability, disintegration time and dissolution study were carried out in this study.
Results: Based on the data obtained in this study, all brands of PPL available on the Iraqi market showed weight variation within the acceptable limit of USP. Marketed products of Becardin and Propranolol lie within the acceptable limit of hardness and Inderal was observed to be slightly higher than the normal upper range of USP. Diameter and thickness for all brands were almost the same, except the diameter of Becardin was slightly higher and friability was zero for all brands. All brands demonstrated a time of disintegration of fewer than 30 min. The tested marketed propranolol products; Inderal, Procard, Becardin and Propranolol showed cumulative drug release of 90.08%, 94.46%, 92.4% and 79.51%, respectively at the end of the first 20 min. This variation in the release profile of marketed tablets of Propranolol HCl might be attributed to the excipients present in the marketed tablets where some of these excipients may behave as a disintegrant and enhance dissolution rate while others may act as dissolution retardants.
Conclusion: All marketed tablets of Propranolol HCl employed in this study were produced within the standard criteria of tablet manufacturing. Evaluation of quality control of these selected tablets showed acceptable pharmaceutical properties that lie within the limits of USP.