bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sterculia setigera hydroethanolic extract protects brain tissues ex vivo against lipid peroxidation and possesses in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Authors: Kantati Yendubé T. , Kodjo Magloire K. , Kombate Bignoate , Togbossi Lucie A. , Eklu-Gadegbeku Kwashie , Gbeassor Messanvi
Published: November 2022

Medicinal plants remain good sources of remedies both in traditional and modern medicine. The present study aimed to evaluate ex vivo and in vitro neuroprotective effects of Sterculia setigera, a medicinal plant of Togolese flora. Inhibition of lipid peroxidation in rat brain homogenate was assayed ex vivo using the combination of ascorbic acid and FeCl2 as prooxidants. In vitro anti-inflammatory tests consisted in the evaluation of inhibition of albumin denaturation and red blood cells hemolysis. DPPH tests, FRAP test and Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the hydroethanolic extract of S. setigera were realized. Quantitative determination of total phenols, flavonoids and tannins was also performed. S. setigera hydroethanolic extract protected significantly brain homogenates against lipid peroxidation (-78.28 % of MDA reduction at 200 µg/mL, P<0.001). DDPH radical was scavenged by extract with IC50 of 21.25 ± 0.41 µg/mL, close to that of the standard ascorbic acid (20.60 ± 0.26 µg/mL). The TAC of S. setigera hydroethanolic extract expressed as equivalent of standard ascorbic acid was 102.44 ± 19.48 µg AAE/mg. The IC50 found for S. setigera (139.68 ± 0.36 µg/mL) when inhibiting RBCs hemolysis is very close to that of Diclofenac (128.41 ± 0.21 µg/mL). Among polyphenolic compounds quantified, flavonoids were well represented with concentration of 172.38 ± 8.36 µgRE/mg. The presence of these polyphenolics may explain good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities recorded, confirming its suitable usage in the local pharmacopoeia and making S. setigera a good candidate for neuroprotective drugs discovery.

Keywords: Sterculia setigera, neuroprotection, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory.
Formulation and Evaluation of Norfloxacin Ocular In-situ Gel
Authors: Vyas Urvashi , Gehalot Narendra , Jain Vikas , Mahajan S C
Published: November 2022

The study aims to prepare and evaluate the in situ Norfloxacin gel for the treatment of Conjunctivitis. The pronounced fluctuations and repeated administration of conventional eye drops are the main disadvantages of ophthalmic drug delivery. The ocular in situ gelling system is designed to achieve a prolonged therapeutic effect by improving residence time at the application site. Infrared spectroscopy studies of Norfloxacin, Sodium alginate, Gellan gum, and HPMC K4M alone and their physical mixture revealed that Norfloxacin is compatible with all the polymers used. The Ophthalmic in situ gelling system of Norfloxacin was successfully formulated using different gelling agents viz. Sodium alginate, Gellan gum, and HPMC K4M are viscosity-enhancing agents. Prepared in situ gels were subjected to evaluation such as visual appearance, pH, and drug content. All formulations were found transparent and clear, the pH of the formulations was between 7.1 to 7.4, and drug content was found within 95-98% in all in situ gelling systems. All the formulations showed instantaneous gelation when contacted with simulated tear fluid. The viscosity of all formulations decreased as the shear rate increased, indicating the pseudoplastic fluid's character. In vitro release of Norfloxacin from the prepared formulations was studied for 6 hours. Results reveal that all formulations exhibited sustained release of the drug from the gelrite polymeric network over 6 hrs. The stability studies confirmed that in situ gelling formulations of Norfloxacin remained more stable at ambient temperature and humidity. The present work was a satisfactory preliminary study in developing in situ gelling systems of Norfloxacin.

Keywords: Conjunctivitis, Norfloxacin, in situ gel, Sodium alginate, sustained release.
Formulation and Evaluation of Extended Release Gastroretentive Tablets of Metroprolol Succinate
Authors: Varshi Reena , Jain Vikas , Pal Pradeep , Gehalot Narendra
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to produce a gastroretentive floating tablet of Metoprolol succinate and examine the effects of release retardant on in vitro drug release. Metoprolol succinate is a β1 selective antagonist used as an Anti-hypertensive, Antiarrhythmic, and Anti Angina. Metoprolol succinate has 48% oral bioavailability due to limited absorption from the lower gastrointestinal tract. The Metoprolol succinate floating tablets were designed to increase stomach retention, prolong drug release, and enhance drug bioavailability. To shorten the floating lag time, hydrophilic polymers like Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC K4M, K15M, and K100M), polyethylene oxide (PEO 303), and sodium bicarbonate as a gas-producing agent were incorporated into the formulation of the floating tablets. Different batches of Metoprolol succinate floating tablets were prepared by direct compression. All the formulations were evaluated for various quality control tests, such as weight variation, hardness, friability, swelling index, floating lag time, and total floating time. As a dissolution medium, 0.1 N HCl was used to conduct an in vitro release investigation on the tablets. The present study demonstrates the potential of the sustained-release floating tablets of Metoprolol succinate as an alternative to conventional formulations.

Keywords: Bioavailability, Floating tablet, antihypertensive drugs, extended release, Metoprolol succinate, Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.
Profile of Phytochemicals and GCMS Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Natural Dried-Seed Removed Ripened Pods Methanolic Extracts of Moringa oleifera
Authors: Suganandam K. , Jeevalatha A. , Kandeepan C. , Kavitha N. , Senthilkumar N. , Sutha S. , Seyed Mohamed Ali , Gandhi Sanyam , Ramya S. , Grace Lydial Pushpalatha G , Abraham GC. , Jayakumararaj R.
Published: November 2022

Moringa oleifera has been reported to be the store-house of wide range of bioactive compounds. Most commonly used plant part has been the leaves which are reported to be rich in Vitamins, Carotenoids, Polyphenols, Phenolic Acids, Flavonoids Alkaloids, Glucosinolates, Isocyanides, Tannins and Saponins. Moringa leaves are used as Keerai while, green pods are commonly used as vegetable in the traditional preparation of Sambar in South-India. MO is gaining popularity because of its nutrient-rich root, leaves, flowers and fruits, having immense traditional medicinal uses and proved pharmacological properties. Not much of work has been carried out on analysis of bioactive compounds present in the pods. In the present study an attempt has been made to screen and analyze the range of bioactive compounds present in Moringa oleifera seed removed ripened natural dried pods. Phytochemical screening and GCMS analysis revealed the presence of 12 compounds namely - 7-Octadecyne, 2-methyl- (C19H36); 3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (C20H40O); 3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (C20H40O); 6,9,12,15-Docosatetraenoic acid, me (C23H38O2); Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)- (C10H20O); 3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (C20H40O); Palmitic acid vinyl ester (C18H34O2); .gamma.-Tocopherol (C28H48O2); Vitamin E (C29H50O2); Cholesta-7,9(11)-dien-3-ol, 4,4-dim (C29H48O); gamma.-Sitosterol (C29H50O); Stigmasta-5,24(28)-dien-3-ol, (3.beta.,24Z)- (C29H48O). Further, in-silico ADMET analysis is expected to provide in-death physiochemical and biomolecular details of these molecules in order to exploit them for production of novel drugs for the pharma market with wide array of bio medical applications.

Keywords: Bioactive Compounds; GCMS; Phytochemical Screening; MOPME; Plant Based Natural Products;
Phytochemical Screening, GC-MS and FTIR analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Costus igneus (CIMLE) as a Natural Source of Drug Lead Molecules for Next-generation Drug-design, Development and Therapeutics
Authors: Vijaya V. , Karunai Selvi B. , Arockia John Paul J. , Ramya S. , Jayakumararaj R.
Published: November 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that affects people of all ages. Increased prevalence of diabetes worldwide has led to the development of synthetic drugs to provide an interim solution to the ill effects of the issue. However, such drugs, although effective as antihyperglycemic agents, are accompanied by significant side effects, costly, and inaccessible to majority of people in remote in underdeveloped countries. Local medicinal plants have been used by such indigenous people through ages to treat such complicate ailments due to their ease of availability and GRAS nature. As diabetes continues to become prevalent, health care practitioners are considering PBNPs as a potential source of antidiabetic drugs due to their high potency and fewer side effects. To better understand the mechanism of action of medicinal plants, their active phytoconstituents are being isolated and investigated thoroughly. Phytochemical screening followed by GCMS analysis of methanolic leaf extracts of Costus igneus depicted the presence of 19 bioactive compounds viz., Bicyclo [3.1.1]heptane, 2,6,6- trimethyl-; 2-Pentadecanone, 6,10,14-trimethyl-; phthalic acid; 3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen- 1-ol; 5,9,13-Pentadecatrien-2-one, 6,10,14- trimethyl; 2(3H)-Furanone,dihydro-5-methyl-5- pentyl; Hexamethyl-2,6,10,14,18,22- tetracosahexaen-1-yl]-6-methox.; Oxalic acid, cyclohexyl isohexyl ester; 6-Octadecenoic acid; Phytol; 4,8,12,16-Tetramethylheptadecan-4- olide; 5-methyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-indole; Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate; Adamantane-1-carboxylic acid methyl ester; Benzopyran-6-ol,3,4-dihydro-; Benzoquinoline; gamma-Tocopherol; dimethyl-5,5'-diphenyl-1H,; 1H-benzo[b]furo[2,3-f]indole that may be ADMET predicted for potential biomedical application in the treatment of diabetics and long term complications associated with the disease. 

Keywords: Costus igneus; CIMLE; GCMS; Phytochemical Screening; Antidiabetic Leads; NDDT; Antidiabetic Medicinal Plant
Ayurveda Review on Bandha Vidhi and Clinical Significance of Pichu, Plota, Kavalika and Vikeshika
Authors: Chovatia Shailesh N , Thumar Neha
Published: November 2022

The Bandhan means bandaging and Acharya Sushruta has described various aspects of Bandhan. Ayurvedamentioned clinical significance of Bandhan, Sthana, Vidhiand Dravyafor Bandhan. The Bandhana gives Shodhan effect and keep wound cleanand improves process of healing. Bandha(bandage) gives steadiness in bones &provides compactness to the joints. Bandhana should be done according to the Kala and condition of disease& Ritu. Bandhana Vidhi utilizes Vranashodhana and Vranaropana drugs thus helps to cure cuts and wounds.Dressing material  such as; Pichu, Plota and Kawalika, etc. offersearly healing and improves ability of body to regain physical ability. The Vrana Shodhana and Ropana properties help in the treatment of Vrana. Bandha Vidhisuch as Pichu, Plota, Kavalika and Vikeshika are simple and safe techniques with minimal invasion that can be used effectively for the management of infected wound /ulcer. Present article explores Ayurveda review on Bandha Vidhi and clinical significance of Pichu, Plota, Kavalika and Vikeshika.

Keywords: Ayurveda, BandhaVidhi, Pichu, Plota, Kavalika
Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Brucea javanica Fruit
Authors: Ifora Ifora , Abdillah Rahmad , Shyntia Ridum
Published: November 2022

Objective: Inflammation plays a crucial role in the progression of many diseases, excessive inflammation increases immune cell activation, which can destroy tissues and body health. When inflammation occurs, multiple pro-inflammatory mediators are overproduced, leading to a variety of diseases such as rheumatism, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems. Brucea javanica has been used as traditional medicine as a therapy for anti-tumor, amebic dysentery, diarrhea, malaria, and intestinal inflammation. Therefore, in this study, we explored the effect of ethanol extract Brucea javanica Fruit on anti-inflammation activity in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and the COX-2 inhibitory effect in vivo.

Methods: In vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extracts was evaluated using the carrageenan-induced rat paws edema method at doses of 50, 100, and 200mg/kg and further investigated the effect of Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitory using ELISA readers.

Results: The ethanolic extract of Brucea javanica Fruit exhibited anti-inflammatory activity by oral intake of 50 mg/kg of the ethanolic extract and Brucea javanica inhibited rat paw edema by 50.91% significantly compared to Celecoxib by 58.52%. Moreover, Brucea javanica showed COX-2 inhibition by 16,40% compared to Celecoxib by 20,50%.

Conclusions:  These findings indicate that Brucae javanica Fruit extracts have promising anti-inflammatory activity directed against COX-2 enzymatic activity.

Keywords: Anti-inflammatory, Brucea javanica, Malur, Buah Makasar, Cyclooxygenase.
Potential analgesic activity of the methanolic F4 fraction of leaf extracts of Annona senegalensis Pers. (Annonaceae)
Authors: Dembele Ousmane , Haidara Mahamane , Ndong Awa , Barbosa Firmin , Sy Guata Yoro , Wélé Alassane
Published: November 2022

Objectives:  Pain management is provided by analgesics. While considerable progress has been made in recent years due to better knowledge of the pathophysiology and mechanism of pain, the search for new, more effective analgesics with fewer side effects remains relevant. Previous work carried out at the pharmacology laboratory of the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology of UCAD (Senegal) had shown an anti-inflammatory activity of the ether extract, as well as that of the methanolic fraction and of ethyl acetate from Annona senegalensis leaves. This study concerns the fractionation of the total methanolic and ethyl acetate fractions by chromatography on a Sephadex column. A phytochemical characterization of the fractions obtained, followed by the study of the analgesic activity of the derivative fractions of the methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts carried out in mice.

Methods: Sephadex gel fractionation yielded ten fractions. Characterization tests were carried out on the total extracts and the different derivatives fractions.

Results: Phytochemical characterization of the fractions revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, sterols and triterpenes. The F4 and F'4 fractions, rich in sterols and triterpenes, significantly reduced the number of cramps at low doses (1 mg/kg and 3 mg/kg).

Conclusion: The presence of sterols and triterpenes in the methanolic F4 fraction of the leaves of Annona senegalensis could be the cause of the analgesic activity of the plant.

Keywords: Annona senegalensis, phytochemistry, sterols and triterpenes, analgesic.
Immunotherapy: A New Revolutionary Treatment in Cancer
Authors: Bhasme Prajakta Shivaji , Sarukh Vikram Sadashiv , Sole Shital Digambar , Bhandari Aarti Sampatlal , Bhosale Vaishnavi Rajendra , Khandagale , Sandip Suresh
Published: November 2022

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that aids your immune system to fight cancer. The immune system helps your body fight infections and other diseases. It is made up of white blood cells and organs and tissue of the lymph system. Immunotherapy is a uses substance made from living organisms to treat cancer. 1 Immunotherapy is treatment that focuses on boosting the body’s own immune response against cancer tumors. Cancer cells can be treacherous targets for both therapeutic agent and the body’s natural defense line the immune system. But a new approach to “rewiring macrophages, the body’s pathogen and debris eaters, could offer a fresh boost to cancer immunotherapy. 2

Keywords: Immunotherapy, cancer treatment, immune system, natural defense line
Factor XIII Gene Polymorphisms among Sudanese Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage, Khartoum State 2022
Authors: Ibrahim Wessam Salah , Algader Abubker Alsiddig Abd , Abdallah Esraa Kamal Almahy , Hasssan Manasik Siddig , Hamed Sawsan A. , Gassoum Alsadig , Alabid Tyseer , Merghani Maye  M. , Babiker Nihad Elsadig
Published: November 2022

Background: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a sudden bleeding into the tissues of the brain, into its ventricles, or into both. It is the second most common subtype of stroke and is a critical disease usually leading to severe disability or death.

Material and method: This study was a cross sectional hospital-based study, conducted at the research laboratory of the national center of neurological sciences (NCNS), Khartoum, Sudan during the period June 2022 to August 2022.It included all patients attended with intracerebral hemorrhage. DNA extraction was done from blood of all patients and control. PCR for factor XIII gene was carried out and thus Sanger sequencing to both cases and controls.

Results: The PCR results showed; 100% samples were positive for factor XIII gene.Sequencing result showed the detection of threepolymorphisms in factor XIII gene (G>T, A>G and C>T) .

Conclusion: The detected factor XIII gene polymorphisms (G>T, A>G and C>T) might be associated with intercereberal hemorrhage among Sudanese patients.

Keywords: Factor XIII, gene, polymorphism, hemorrhage, stroke, cerebrovascular
Nanoparticles of Cerium Dioxide and Pristine (Unmodified) Fullerene C60 Protect Living Cells against Adverse Environmental Exposure: Does it Work?
Authors: Falko Oksana V. , Chizhevskiy Viktor V. , Klochkov Vladimir K. , Yevlash Viktoria V.
Published: November 2022

We believe that unmodified hydrated C60 fullerene (C60FWS) and nanocrystalline cerium dioxide (NCD) are promising for biological research. It is knowns that these nanoparticles protect living cells from damaging environmental factors such as radioactive and ultraviolet radiation, temperature, hypoxia, toxic substances, etc. However, little attention has been paid in scientific reports to the use and study of these nanoparticles as possible adaptogens. In our studies, we tried to protect the culture of cyanobacteria Spirulina platensis with C60 and NCD from adverse conditions. The choice of Spirulina platensis is due to its sensitivity to adverse environmental factors. The results obtained show that the absence of toxic effects of C60 and NCD of selected concentrations on the Spirulina platensis culture has been found. Nanoparticles C60 and NCD maintained the culture of Spirulina platensis for at least 4 weeks in the absence of nutrients, light, low pH storage conditions and low temperature. Cyanobacteria stored for 1–4 weeks in distilled water with nanoparticles showed increased proliferative activity compared to samples stored at the same time in the standard Zarrouk’s nutrient medium.

Keywords: fullerene C60, nanocrystalline cerium dioxide, Spirulina platensis, adaptogens.
Measurement of Protein C Levels among Sudanese Children and Infants with Sepsis at Khartoum state, 2022
Authors: Mohamod Zakaria Mohamed , Merghani Maye M. , Babiker Nihad Elsadig
Published: November 2022

Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to infection causes injury to its own tissues and organs.

Materials and methods: This was cross sectional study conducted at Baraah pediatric center, Khartoum, Sudan during the period from May 2022 to August 2022, to measure protein C level in Sudanese children and infants with Sepsis. 50 patients were selected as a case group (46% were female and 54% were male.), and apparently healthy donors were selected as control group. 2.8 ml of venous blood samples were collected in Tri Sodium Citrate Anticoagulant. CRP and the blood culture were done for all the patients. The protein C level was performed using Ichroma device.

Results: Protein C results revealed the mean of protein C in case was (63.7±8.9 ), and in the control group  was(79.8±11.1 ),  when compared protein C mean  between case and control groups there was a  highly significant decreased with ( p value 0.00) Also in the case group there was an insignificant differences between protein C,  age, gender, and culture,  p value >0.05),  . In addition the result showed insignificant correlation between protein C and CRP(p value ≥0.05). The most common types of isolated bacteria in sepsis patients was Klebsiella

Conclusion: The study concludes that there is a significant decrease in protein C level in patients with sepsis.

Keywords: protein C , CRP sepsis , bacteria , Klebsiella
Comparison and Assessment of Prescribing Pattern of Psychotropic Agents in Bipolar Affective Disorder with Mania and Depression
Authors: SHAJAHAN AJMAL , K R Angel Princy , M S Mahima , Safwan Muhammed , M A Fathima Jaleela
Published: November 2022

INTRODUCTION:  Bipolar disorder is a recurring chronic disorder characterized by mood, state, and energy fluctuations. Individuals differ in symptoms, course, severity, and response to treatment. It is critical to know the current knowledge of the evolving pharmacological and psychological strategies in bipolar disorder.    

Primary Objective: To compare and assess the prescribing pattern of psychotropic agents in bipolar affective disorder with mania and depression in a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Secondary Objectives:

Determination of risk and cofactors associated with Bipolar Disorder

Assessment of treatment modalities

DESIGN: Prospective observational study

RESULTS: The most commonly prescribed drug combination was Mood stabilizer + Antipsychotics + Benzodiazepine combination, 5(33.3%) in bipolar depression and9(60.0%) in bipolar mania. A very small percentage of patients(6.7%) received ECT. The most commonly prescribed drug was valproic acid (Mood stabilizer), 7(46.7%) in bipolar depression and 14(93.3%) in bipolar mania.

CONCLUSION: According to the data, Mood stabilizers were found to be the most commonly prescribed drug. Combination treatments are prevalent, reflecting the complexity of managing bipolar disorder. Although various genetic and environmental risk factors are identified, the attributable risk of individual elements is often less.

KEYWORDS: Bipolar disorder, Mania, Depression, Valproic acid
Relationship Blood Pressure and Exercise with Vitamin D Levels in Employees
Authors: Margo Eveline , Meiyanti , , Chondro Fransisca , Kartadinata Erlani , Yohana ,
Published: November 2022

In Indonesia prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is 63%, so although Indonesia is a tropical country on the equator, it doesn’t guarantee vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency can cause bone deformity and the risk of various chronic diseases such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, cancer, obesity, the distraction of lipid profile, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases can be increased. Increases blood pressure in globally remains the leading cause of death. In Indonesia, hypertension prevalence reached 47.8% with 70% of them suffering from undiagnosed hypertension. About 50-90% of vitamin D is mainly synthesized in the skin after exposure to UVB whereas only a minor part is derived from dietary sources. Exercise in the morning can help synthesize vitamin D. Because of that, the aim of this study is to research the relationship between blood pressure and exercise with vitamin D levels. The study was conducted on 63 employees with range aged 19-60 years in February 2021 at USAKTI Faculty of Medicine, East Jakarta. The research design used in this study was an observational analytic with cross-sectional approach and analyzed by chi-square test. This research presents a significant relationship between blood pressure with vitamin D levels (p=0.044), meanwhile exercise doesn’t have any significant relationship with vitamin D levels (p=0.565). This study shows vitamin D can impact blood pressure, while vitamin D source not only from sun exposure but can be taken from food or supplements.

Keywords: blood pressure, exercise, vitamin D levels
Post-Covid Era: Predictive Aspect of Psychological Condition Due to Sudden Pandemic
Authors: Ojha Smriti , Singh Amrita , Pandey Ayoni , Kumar Siddhant , Mishra Sudhanshu
Published: November 2022

Covid-19 has impacted the lives of people in various aspects positive as well as negative. It has an

impact on different areas of life, including the economy, industries, global markets, agriculture,

human health, etc. The virus caused disruptions to daily life and restrictions on activities in many communities during its multiple outbreaks. Hope for a potential end to the pandemic emerged with the stepping up of vaccination campaigns. However, the continual appearance of mutant strains and vaccine hesitancy has been problems both nationally and internationally. People's normal activities, routines, and livelihoods have been disrupted by self-isolation and quarantine, potentially leading to an increase in loneliness, anxiety, depression, insomnia, excessive alcohol and drug use, and self-harm or suicidal activity. The psychological aspects of the post-covid-19 era are the effect of covid-19 on CNS, and physiological and psychological diseases caused due to covid-19. The article explains Post Trauma Stress Disorder as a psychological scar, Social evils arising due to covid-19, and predictive reasons for the increase in mental illness

Keywords- Covid-19, Pandemic, Mental Health, Post Trauma Stress Disorder,  Depression, Anxiety
A Clinical Study on the Use of Methotrexate in Rheumatoid Arthritis Based on CDAI Score
Authors: Anjali K , Radhika P , Devanshi P , Vivek T , Bhavy K
Published: November 2022

Methotrexate (MTX) has been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis for more than 2 decades. It has proven its efficacy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in numerous randomized controlled trials. Compared with other second-line drugs, a higher percentage of patients can continue therapy with MTX over a prolonged period. However, its long-term effectiveness in RA remains unclear. Therefore, a retrospective observational study was performed from the period of 2016-21.

Objectives: To evaluate the treatment plan and use of MTX in RA patients and to determine the efficacy of MTX therapy in Rheumatoid arthritis based on the CDAI score.

Methodology: A retrospective multicentric observational study was performed for 5 years on patients who were diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis & were on methotrexate therapy. The statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20.

Results and Discussion: A total of 763 patients were enrolled in the study, out of which 84.53% were females and 15.46% were males. Among the subjects, 11.8 % presented with low disease activity, 50.2 % presented with moderate disease activity, and 37.7% presented with high disease activity. 14.15% of patients were put on methotrexate monotherapy while the remaining 85.85% of patients were given MTX in combination with other synthetic DMARDs. Out of the total patients that were given combination therapy, 87.94% were on MTX+HCQ treatment.

Conclusion: Methotrexate has been proven to be efficacious in the treatment of the Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Keywords: Methotrexate, Rheumatoid Arthritis, CDAI Score
Nanoparticle applications in intracellular infections
Authors: Torres Judith , Lara Tatiana , Grijalva Marcelo
Published: November 2022

Objective: To review selected recent studies on the therapeutic applications of nanoparticles and nanoparticle-conjugated antimicrobials as new therapeutic alternatives for a variety of intracellular infections.

Data Sources: Recent published papers on nanoparticles and intracellular infections, including bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases in humans. The PubMed database was used as the main source. Publicly available papers were retrieved.

Summary of Contents: Therapeutic failure in intracellular infections is a challenging clinical problem. Antibiotics, anti-parasitics, antivirals, and other drugs might not reach effective levels in intracellular compartments; these agents in high doses might become toxic and may show undesirable effects. Researchers have been looking for alternative strategies for antimicrobials to reach intracellular spaces. The development of novel drugs and release mechanisms is currently a research priority in infectious diseases. With this background, new approaches such as those based on nanotechnology, including the fabrication of drug nanocarriers, are of increasing interest to researchers and clinicians. The goal for nanocarriers is to provide controlled release of drugs into cellular compartments with high selectivity, higher efficiency, better therapeutic outcomes, less toxicity, and more rational dosing schemes compared to traditional ones. Biocompatibility of nanocarriers may ensure affinity to the reticuloendothelial and immunological systems, which might facilitate drug delivery into intracellular compartments.

Conclusion: Nanoparticle systems have great potential in infectious diseases, particularly in difficult-to-treat infections, such as those caused by intracellular pathogens. These systems have been tested with several drugs, enzymes, genes, and peptides, showing long half-lives due to their hydrophilic coatings. The optimization of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems has improved our understanding of the different mechanisms underlying biological interactions and the engineering of even more complex nanoparticles.

Keywords: Nanoparticles, intracellular infections, novel therapeutics.
Formulation Development and Evaluation of Nanoparticulate Systems of Levofloxacin
Authors: Kumar Nitesh , Tiwari Dilip Kumar , Mehta Parul Ben D
Published: November 2022

An emerging advancement in pharmaceutical sciences and perturbing limitation of conventional drug delivery systems have triggered extensive research in novel carrier systems. There has been extensive research on novel carriers that promise patient compliance, but toxicological part is still the biggest challenge to any drug delivery systems. In the present research, we have develop levofloxacin  nanopartulate systems  with chitosan and sodium triphosphte  which offer safer dosage form with increased bioavailability as well as better patient compliance. In all formulation the minimum percentage yield shows in formulation F8 (70.23%) and maximum in formulation F6 (89.23%). The highest % cumulative drug release after 8 hrs was found to be 92.658 and first order release kinetics; the r2 value for first order was found to be 0.988

Keywords: Nanoparticulate systems, Chitosan, Levofloxacin, Compliance, Bioavailability.
HIV and HIV/TB coinfection: cluster distribution of regions in the Northwestern Federal District of Russia
Authors: Zagdyn Z. M. , Nechaeva O. B. , Sterlikov S. A. , Vasilyeva T. P. , Alexandrova O. Yu.
Published: November 2022

Introduction. One of the main factors affecting TB burden is HIV progression and, in turn, PLWH predominantly die of TB.

The study purpose was to identify high risk regions of HIV, HIV/TB coinfection in NWFD of Russia between years of 2007 to 2018.

Materials and methods. K-means method was applied to identify HIV, HIV/TB incidence, prevalence and mortality rates, as well as share of heterosexual HIV transmission route clusters in 10 regions of NWFD. The need data were extracted from relevant forms of federal statistical observation between 2007 to 2018. NAO was excluded from cluster analysis due to absence of HIV/TB coinfection cases in study period. For holistic understanding of HIV/TB coinfection trends, TB incidence, prevalence and mortality rates were estimated too without including them in cluster analysis.

Results. Along with significant reduce in TB cases there was increase in HIV case data in most regions, especially in Arkhangelsk oblast where HIV incidence raised by 617.8% in period analyzed. Meanwhile Kaliningrad oblast became the only region where HIV incidence (–21.5%) and mortality (–65.6%), also HIV/TB incidence (–55.0%) is failed in 2007–2018. Heterosexual HIV transmission risk was high in almost all regions, especially in NAO (100.0%), Pskov (89.2%), Novgorod (78.8%) oblasts. K-means method detected the highest HIV spread in Arkhangelsk oblast (first cluster), lowest — in Kaliningrad, Leningrad, Murmansk oblasts and St. Petersburg (third cluster). Other regions with intermediate HIV case data formed second cluster. HIV/TB coinfection most rapidly spreads in Arkhangelsk, Pskov and Novgorod oblasts (first cluster), most slowly — in Kaliningrad, Leningrad oblasts and in St. Petersburg (third cluster). In other regions, spread of HIV/TB coinfection has average rate, forming second intermediate cluster.

Conclusion. Along with significant improvement in TB epidemic, spread of HIV and HIV/TB coinfection in regions of NWFD considered as uneven. In regions with high concentration of HIV cases, HIV and HIV/TB coinfection rates are slowed down. Conversely, highest rates of HIV cases, as well as of HIV/TB coinfection case data, are observed in regions with low HIV accumulation, indicating the need to strengthen TB measures in PLWH in regions with a low spread of HIV.
Trans-ethnic analysis in over 780,000 individuals yields new insights into the genetic etiology of allergic diseases
Authors: Chang Zhenglin , Min Lei , Cheng Zhangkai Jason , Zhang Jiale , Pan Xiaocong , Zeng Zilin , Sun Baoqing
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND: Increasing numbers of research have revealed an
etiological association between peripheral blood markers and allergy.
Nevertheless, whether these associations are causal and whether they
vary among different allergic diseases and ethnicities remain unclear.
METHODS: 32 peripheral biomarkers with consistent definition
were collected from three nationwide biobanks (UK Biobank, FinnGen, and
BioBank Japan). Summary-level data for asthma (n=774,328), dermatitis
(n=880,733), and allergic rhinitis (n=893,300) were obtained from these
biobanks. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses and meta-analyses were
applied to explore the generalizability and heterogeneity of causal
effects among different allergic diseases and ethnicities. The clinical
data (n=9,877) in China and US were collected to verify peripheral
markers affecting allergy. RESULTS: The MR analyses provided
consistent evidence for the causal effects of seven shared heritable
factors (eosinophil, neutrophil, basophil, glomerular filtration rate,
mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, platelet distribution width,
and hematocrit) on broad allergic disease phenotype in both ethnic
groups, three of which are new. These findings are further corroborated
by our observational studies in China and US. Glucose showed a causal
effect on allergy in Europeans while five factors, including c-reactive
protein/CRP, LDL cholesterol/LDLC, total cholesterol/TC, hemoglobin
A1c/Hb1Ac, and glucose, are important for East Asians. Moreover, we
observed trans-ethnic evidence for the causal effects of five factors
(CRP, white blood cell/WBC, total protein, albumin, and hemoglobin
concentration) on asthma, two factors (aspartate aminotransferase and
WBC) on dermatitis, and LDLC on allergic rhinitis, reflecting the
etiological discrepancy among different allergic diseases. In East
Asians, we also noticed the ethnic-specific causalities of triglyceride
on asthma, alanine aminotransferase on dermatitis, and three factors
(monocyte, albumin, and creatinine) on allergic rhinitis.
CONCLUSIONS: Our results support the causal effects of 22 blood
heritable factors on allergic diseases, providing novel insights into
the comprehensive assessment of allergic risks and the design of
universal and personalized interventions.
A Modular Phase-Locked BPSK, QPSK Demodulator With a Single-Phase VCO
Authors: Chaichomnan Chutpipat , Khumsat Phanumas
Published: November 2022

A phase-locked BPSK/QPSK demodulator with a single-phase
voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) is proposed. Relying on a linear
voltage/phase-difference characteristic of the phase detector, a
phase-control process of this single-loop demodulator architecture is
simple and truly modular. Such process is done by selective voltage
shifting and re-scaling to ensure no significant change at the VCO’s
input regardless of the incoming modulated signals’ phase. The prototype
has been fabricated in a 0.18-μm CMOS process operating under a 1.8-V
supply with a 60-MHz carrier. The BPSK and QPSK demodulators achieve
maximum data rates of 25 Mbps while consuming 0.68mW and 0.79mW,
respectively with the corresponding energy per bit figures of 27.2 and
31.7 pJ/bit.
Degeneration of foundation species induced by climate change could induce alpine biodiversity collapse
Authors: Chen JianGuo , Chen XuFang , Qian LiShen , Zhang Yazhou , Li Bo , Shi HongHua , Sun Lu , Schöb Christian , Sun Hang
Published: November 2022

Foundational cushion plants sustain a prominent proportion of alpine
biodiversity, but they are quite sensitive to climate warming hence
their population dynamics have important implications for biodiversity.
The potential biodiversity changes with the population dynamics of
cushion plants in alpine ecosystems remain, however, unclear. Using
eight communities along a climatic and community successional gradient,
we assessed ecological drivers of population dynamics and associated
plant diversity changes in alpine communities dominated by the
foundational cushion plant Arenaria polytrichoides. The population
degeneration of Arenaria is attributed to ecological constraints,
including temperature, water and light availability, extreme climate
events, and interspecific competition, at a series of life history
stages. Once Arenaria populations completely degenerate, previously
cushion-dominated communities shift to climax communities that are
overwhelmingly dominated by sedges. Future degeneration of foundational
cushion populations induced by climate warming will therefore induce a
biodiversity collapse in alpine ecosystems.
Burden of gynecological malignancies in China, 1990-2019: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zhang Xiaolei , Wu Ruijie , Zhang Tongchao , Liu Xiaoyan , Chen Hao , Li Zhen , Fang Yuan , Yang Xiaorong , Lu Ming
Published: November 2022

Objective To evaluate the epidemiological trends and patterns of
cervical cancer, uterine cancer and ovarian cancer in China in 1990 and
2019. Design Systematical and updated worldwide epidemiological study.
Setting Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2019. Population or Sample.
Chinese population was obtained from World Health Organization (WHO)
World Standard Population Distribution (2000-2025) and the United
Nations World Population Prospects 2019 Revision. Methods Data were
extracted from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors
Study 2019. GBD methodology was used to estimate the burden of
gynecological malignancies in China, including cervical cancer, uterine
cancer and ovarian cancer. Main Outcome Measures The incidence,
mortality, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and estimated annual
percentage change (EAPC) were systematically analyzed. We additionally
predicted the incidence and mortality of gynecological malignancies from
2020 to 2030. Results From 1990 to 2019, the numbers of incidence cases,
deaths and DALYs of cervical cancer, uterine cancer and ovarian cancer
all significantly increased. The EAPCs in age-standardized incidence
rate (ASIR) of three cancers were 1.61 (95% CI: 1.35, 1.88), 1.26 (95%
CI: 0.58, 1.94) and 1.88 (95% CI: 1.79, 1.98). From 2020 to 2030, the
predicted numbers of incident cases and deaths of gynecological
malignancies should continue to increase, and the incidences of uterine
cancer would expect to exceed cervical cancer in 2030. Conclusions In
China, the numbers of new cases and deaths of gynecological malignancies
will continue to increase in the next ten years. Reducing the prevalence
of gynecological malignancies should be prioritized in future work.
Modified flower pollination algorithm for an off-grid solar photovoltaic system
Authors: Awan Muhammad Mateen Afzal , Mahmood Tahir
Published: November 2022

This Operating the solar photovoltaic (PV) system at its maximum power point (MPP) under numerous environmental conditions to extract the maximum power is a challenging task. The challenge is to track the MPP, especially under partial shading conditions (PSC), where the formation of multiple MPP occurs in the characteristic curve of a PV array. Nevertheless, achieving this would benefit us with optimal power production, reducing the payback time and initial cost of the PV system. To perform this duty, an electronic circuit ruled by an algorithm is employed. The MPP tracking (MPPT) algorithms can be categorized into conventional and nature inspired. The conventional algorithms can successfully track the MPP under uniform weather conditions (UWC), and unable to identify the global MPP (GMPP) under PSC. However, the nature inspired algorithms possess the ability to perform efficiently under all weather conditions. Considering this strength of nature inspired algorithms, one of the top performing algorithms named as Flower pollination algorithm (FPA) is selected based on its brilliant searching strategy in adjacent and distant locations. In this paper, some structural modifications have been proposed in the FPA to further improve its searching capability and get more quick, accurate and efficient results for the MPPT of solar PV system. Results have proven the superiority of the proposed Modified FPA (MFPA) over the FPA in terms of efficiency, accuracy, tracking speed, energy conservation, economic saving, and payback time. Simulation is performed in MATLAB/Simulink.
Low Cost Intelligent Computer Vision based Assistive Technology for Elderly People
Authors: Cheung Dennis , Joe Peter , Nadeem Muhammad , Akhtar Saleem , Aslam M. Hassan
Published: November 2022

The elderly population (aged above 65) has surpassed the number of children under five years and constitutes 10% of the population of the world, which is expected to reach up to 15% by 2050. A vast majority of the elderly suffer from some kind of chronic disease affecting their cognitive skills impairing their ability to spend a quality life independently. They have to rely on caretaker services for a quality life in a safer environment. However, caretaker services are quite expensive and it is hard for the health care organizations or the families to bear the expenses. 24/7 availability of caretakers is also an issue due to the shortage of workforce, failing to meet the ever-growing demand of the caretakers. This article presents a computer-vision based assistive system for the elderly to tackle this important problem. The system is capable of monitoring the environment as well as the activities of the subject in a standard room environment. It takes the video feed as an input and recognizes the activities of elderly people by using machine learning algorithms. The standalone system autonomously detects and generates real-time alerts for the caretaker, guardian or family member in case of any potential danger through an accompanying smartphone application. It also keeps records of the activities of the subject and generates reports which can be used by health professionals for further analysis and diagnosis. The proposed system was tested in a real-world environment and exhibited promising results for standing, sitting and resting, with a combined average accuracy of 83.41%. The proposed system is standalone, cost effective, and flexible for monitoring the activities of the elderly and is expected to enhance the safety and quality of life of the subject.
The Effect of Internal Factors on Performance Measurement in Indonesian Local Government
Authors: Siti Nur Kholishoh  , Aswar Khoirul
Published: November 2022

This study is motivated by the many problems found in performance measurement, especially in district/city governments in Indonesia. This study aims to examine the influence of internal factors, namely the participation of internal stakeholders, internal political support, and the organizational capacity of local government on performance measurement. The data for this study was gathered via a Google form, with 43 questionnaires addressed to the secretary and head of Serang City's program, evaluation, and reporting subdivision. Purposive sampling was used in this investigation, which took a quantitative approach. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Smart Partial Least Square version 3.0 was used as an analytical technique. The results of this study indicate that internal stakeholder participation and the organizational capacity of local government have no significant effect on performance measurement. Internal political support has a significant effect on performance measurement. Meanwhile, the results of this study have several implications for local governments, especially district/city governments, namely as an evaluation material related to performance measurement at the district/city government level as well as providing information for the State Civil Apparatus (ASN) involved in Government Agency Performance Accountability Reports (LAKIP) to always improve their skills in measuring performance and paying attention to the outcomes to be achieved.
A Study on the Relationship between Technostress and Employee Creativity with Perceived Organizational Support
Authors: Mishra Raunak
Published: November 2022

Employee creativity is important to all kinds of organizations whether they're small or large whether they're for-profit or not-for-profit it doesn't matter. There has been a lot of research done in the past on employee creativity to assess how significant it is. This research has been done not just from the perspective of the organization, but also from the perspective of the employee's work happiness and job performance. In this essay, we made an effort to investigate the influence that technostress now exists in the organization has on employee creativity and how it will continue to do so in the future. We tried to foresee the result by focusing on the link between the two to indicate its future consequences and explain how it would be beneficial to both the organization and the individual. This was accomplished by highlighting the connection between the two.
The Quality of Investigation Audit Influenced by Independence and Integrity
Authors: Mahendro Sumardjo  , Najmatuzzahrah  , Aswar Khoirul
Published: November 2022

Quality audits are important not only for investigators but also for auditors when advancing as experts in court. Therefore, the formation of MIA to handle investigative examinations is BPK's answer to the phenomena that occur in society related to the quality of the results of BPK investigations. However, even after the formation of MIA, there were still complaints from the public regarding the quality of the results of investigative examinations. BPK received a lot of attention because of actions that were not in accordance with the BPK auditors' code of ethics, namely integrity violations that resulted in arrest by law enforcers and undergoing trial at the Corruption Court. For this reason, auditors must always maintain an attitude of mental independence, in all matters relating to the provision of audit services, to improve audit quality. This study aims to analyze how independence and integrity can increase the quality of investigation audit. This study involved 267 investigators of Law Enforcement Agencies as respondents using a questionnaire. Furthermore, the data were analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis and SEM techniques. The results of this study provide empirical evidence that independence and integrity have a significant positive effect on the quality of investigation audit.