bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Characterization of Polyethylene Glycol Modified by Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Alfazani Tahani S. , Elsupikhe Randa F. , Abuissa Hitham M. , Baiej Khairye M.
Published: November 2024

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have been the most important in the field of nanotechnology these days, which have many enormous advantages, such as non-toxic compounds, high static physical capacity as well, carrying lipophilic drugs, and advantages like controlled drug release and targeted drug delivery with increased stability. Moreover, polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been used to increase the stability of the (SLNs). In this research describes the modification of the coating of (PEG) on the surface of (SLNs) to improve the efficiency of drug delivery to target cells in the body. However, (PEG-SLNs) were prepared by the ultrasonication/high-speed homogenization method. In contrast, the physical characterization of (PEG-SLNs) was studied by viscosity measurement at 37°C, which was developed by using stearic acid as a lipid matrix in ethanol as the dispersion medium. At that point, we noticed there was a decrease in relative viscosity (ηr) and dynamic viscosity (η) with the increasing of the weight of stearic acid, due to the result of the creation of (SLNs) that was coated by (PEG) which was modified by ultrasonication. Through Flory-Fox's theory treated the viscosity data to obtain the hydrodynamic radius (RH), which was decreased from 100 to 50 nm, while the diffusion coefficient was (D) and mobility (μ) that has increased. Moreover, the zeta potential value was (ζ) > 30 mv, at 0.5 g cm-3 concentration of (PEG) with 2.5 g of stearic acid, this result was the best value of the stability of the solution. In this case, this study will use synthesized (PEG-SLNs) in the future for drug delivery to target cells in the body.
Synthesis, and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Functionalized with a Chalcone for Potential Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Mezoughi Aysha B. , Ettarhouni Zaineb O. , Abdussalam-Mohammed Wanisa , Alghzewi Huda Abdalla , Elbeshti Hager Sadek , Wanes Safia Elaarf , Farhat Mahmoud F.
Published: November 2024

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) possess unusual optical, electrical, and catalytic properties. Hence, they are promising candidates in biomedical applications due to their shape and high surface area. Therefore, in present study, AgNPs were functionalized by using chalcone derivative as reducing and capping agent. The synthesized chalcone derivative was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and mass spectroscopic techniques (MS). The resulting AgNPs were thoroughly characterized by different techniques, including ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and FTIR. The monodispersed AgNPs were produced with 49.5 ±6 nm diameter based on DLS results, and TEM results showed a spherical shape with a size of 30±5 nm. Also, the absorption peak at 394 nm in the UV-Vis spectrum confirmed the production of AgNPs. The biological applications of both chalcone derivative and AgNPs as antioxidant agents were evaluated. The obtained results were promising for the development of antioxidant drugs derived from silver nanoparticles functionalized chalcone derivative with hydroxy and methoxy substituents.
Green Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activities of Silver Nanoparticles against some Phypathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Jadalla Nagia Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Green chemistry methods are now an intriguing field of study in agriculture, particularly in pest management. For this reason, novel approaches for the more efficient manufacturing of nanoparticles with improved biological characteristics have been developed. Because nanoparticle production is faster, this method is more eco-friendly and less toxic than old methods. The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Leucaena leucocephala, Mentha aquatica, and Zingiber officinale extracts and their antibacterial activity against Pectobacterium cartovorum, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, and Xanthomonas axonopodis. The results showed that spectroscopic and microscopic methods, such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, revealed absorption peaks for Ll-AgNPs at 415 nm, 420 nm for Ma-AgNPs, and 430 nm for Zo-AgNPs, indicating the silver nature of the prepared colloidal samples. The TEM images revealed the quasi-spherical morphology of NPs with an average size of 12.51, 10.63, and 10.26 nm for Ll-AgNPs, Ma-AgNPs, and Zo-AgNPs. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure with crystallite. While distinctive peaks in an investigation using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy showed that several biomolecules were attached to AgNPs, antibacterial activity was evaluated by an inhibitory zone test, which showed high efficiency against P. cartovorum, A. tumefaciens, and X. axonopodis, with an antibacterial function comparable to L. leucocephala, M. aquatica, and Z. officinale extract. The green production of silver nanoparticles has the potential to be a useful tool in pest management strategies against phytopathogenic bacteria.
Socio-economic and environmental factors are related to acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease incidence in Thailand
Authors: Phacharathonphakul Phuricha , Sornlorm Kittipong
Published: November 2024

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a significant global health issue, leading to high rates of sickness and death worldwide. In Thailand, there are over 3 million patients with the COPD, with more than a million patients admitted to hospitals due to symptoms of the disease. This study investigated factors influencing the incidence of acute exacerbations among COPD patients in Thailand, including the spatial autocorrelation between socioeconomic and environmental factors. We conducted a spatial analysis using Moran’s I, Local Indicators Of Spatial Association (LISA), and spatial regression models, specifically the Spatial Lag Model (SLM) and the Spatial Error Model (SEM), to explore the relationships between the variables. The univariate Moran’s I scatter plots showed a significant positive spatial autocorrelation of 0.606 in the incidence rate of COPD among individuals aged 15 years and older across all 77 provinces in Thailand. High-High (HH) clusters for the COPD were observed in the northern and southern regions, while Low-Low (LL) clusters were observed in the northern and north-eastern regions. Bivariate Moran’s I indicated a spatial autocorrelation between various factors and acute exacerbation of COPD in Thailand. LISA analysis revealed 4 HH clusters and 5 LL clusters related to average income, 12 HH and 8 LL clusters in areas where many people smoke, 5 HH and 8 LL clusters in areas with industrial factory activities, 11 HH and 9 LL clusters associated with forested areas, and 6 LL clusters associated with the average rice field. Based on the Akaike information criterion (AIC). The SLM outperformed the SEM but only slightly so, with an AIC value of 1014.29 compared to 1019.56 and a Lagrange multiplier value of p<0.001. However, it did explain approximately 63.9% of the incidence of acute exacerbations of COPD, with a coefficient of determination (R² = 0.6394) along with a Rho (ρ) of 0.4164. The results revealed that several factors, including income, smoking, industrial surroundings, forested areas and rice fields are associated with increased levels of acute COPD exacerbations.
Transformation in South African professional nursing organisations: The strive for unity
Authors: Esterhuizen Johanna M. , Van Rensburg Gisela H.
Published: November 2024

South Africa’s professional nursing organisations and consequently the profession itself, underwent two major periods of transformation. The first period from the 1950s to the 1980s, was shaped by a political system that forbade multiracial workers’ organisations and mandated racially segregated nursing associations. The statutory position of the South African Nursing Association (SANA), combined with the country’s autocratic socio-political environment, limited the ability of nurse leaders to openly challenge the status quo. Instead, these leaders developed strategies and professional structures to minimise the impact of socio-political influences on the development of nursing as a profession. The second period of transformation began in the 1980s, driven by broader socio-political changes in South Africa. The racial fragmentation caused by the first transformational period, coupled with SANA’s statutory status, made this second period particularly challenging. Over time the nursing profession experienced further division because of differing philosophical and socio-political views. From 1944 to 1985, nurse leaders opted for a single, mandatory professional association to represent professional nurses’ interests. However, after 1985, professional nurses in South Africa chose to prioritise freedom of association and their socio-economic needs, which led to the erosion of a unified, collective professional identity.Contribution: The authors contribute to the history of nursing by describing how South African professional nursing organisations were subjected to two transitional periods that significantly influenced the nature of the organisations and the nursing profession itself. The purpose of this article is to narrate these events not yet disseminated in South African nursing history literature.
Motor milestones and physical activity: A scoping review of ECD practitioners’ contributions
Authors: Gibson Vanessa , Van der Merwe Elna , Coetzee Brenda A.
Published: November 2024

Background: Early childhood development (ECD) practitioners are crucial to young children’s motor milestone achievement, motor development and physical activity (PA) participation. Their role in helping young children reach appropriate PA levels and gross motor milestones has not received sufficient attention.Aim: This study examined the contribution of ECD practitioners to the acquisition of gross motor milestones and PA participation in children aged 0–4 years.Setting: A literature search was conducted using specified search terms. Search parameters were set between 1994 and 26 May 2021.Methods: The Manual for Evidence Synthesis was used for this scoping review. The mapping of evidence based on research about the contribution of ECD practitioners to the acquisition of gross motor milestones and sufficient PA levels, particularly in children aged 0–4 years, was performed using the nine stages of the scoping review approach.Results: Early childhood development practitioner-led PA interventions positively influence children’s overall PA, especially when thoroughly executed by sufficiently trained practitioners. In addition, ECD practitioners’ PA correlated positively with children’s PA.Conclusion: Physical activity interventions presented by ECD practitioners might have a positive influence on children’s overall PA levels, if interventions were thoroughly executed and ECD practitioners received sufficient training. Gaps identified in the current literature include a lack of longitudinal studies and research investigating ECD practitioners’ contribution to young children acquiring gross motor milestones.Contribution: The study contributed to the limited information regarding practitioners’ contribution to gross motor milestone acquisition and adequate PA, highlighting several gaps where research is required.
Thinking outside tuberculosis: A case of widespread active disseminated cysticercosis
Authors: Rumhumha Audrey R. , Arbee Suraya , Mlawuli Mapule P. , Van Gensen Megan
Published: November 2024

A rare case of widespread disseminated cysticercosis was identified in a 32-year-old female patient from the Eastern Cape province, South Africa. Initially, she displayed generalised nonspecific symptoms, leading to a misinterpretation of disseminated tuberculosis (TB). However, further radiological, haematological and pathological investigations revealed extensive dissemination of cysticercosis.Contribution: Disseminated cysticercosis (DC) is a rare condition that can mimic symptoms of other diseases, including tuberculosis, highlighting the importance of considering it in endemic areas.
Rupture of Internal Carotid Artery Pseudoaneurysm into Oropharynx – An Unusual Cause of Hematemesis
Authors: Patel Jayesh , Gohil Anjani , Gandhi Aarohi , Solanki Nancy , Patel Pratiksha
Published: November 2024

A 60-year-old male presented with life-threatening hematemesis from spontaneous rupture of an aneurysm of the cervical internal carotid artery (ICA). The hemorrhage was controlled by emergency ligation of the ICA in the neck. The patient made an excellent recovery and 6 months later, no neurologic deficit was noted. The diagnosis of an extracranial carotid artery aneurysm without a pulsatile lump may be very deceptive.
Posttraumatic Arteriovenous Fistula of Internal Maxillary Artery
Authors: Bouâllala Amine , Azghari A , Tarif B , Anane O , Rezziki A , Benzirar A , El Mahi O
Published: November 2024

Traumatic arteriovenous (AV) fistulas generally result from penetrating injuries to contiguous arteries and veins. This allows the higher-pressure arterial blood to flow directly into the lower-pressure vein, which maintains the patency of the connection in the form of a fistula. Posttraumatic AV maxillary fistula is very uncommon in clinical practice. We present the case of a man who developed AV fistula of the internal maxillary artery 2 weeks after a facial injury treated elsewhere.
Successful Fenestrated Endovascular Aneurysm Repair for a Living Kidney Transplantation Donor
Authors: Miki Takao , Mohara Jun , Koike Norimasa , Hachiya Takashi
Published: November 2024

We describe a case of successful fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) for a living kidney transplantation donor. A 79-year-old male visited our hospital for the treatment of a 40-mm diameter left common iliac artery aneurysm. He was a living kidney transplant donor to his son. Because left nephrectomy was planned using retroperitoneoscopy, EVAR was chosen to avoid dissection of the adhesions for organ retrieval. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) revealed a double renal artery in the right kidney, with the lower branch originating from the lower position of the abdominal aorta. We performed surgeon-modified fenestrated endografting to preserve the right lower accessory renal artery and maintain the right renal function after the left nephrectomy. A postoperative CT scan showed no endoleaks, and the blood flow of the right lower accessory renal artery was maintained. In our case, fenestrated EVAR is feasible for preservation of lower originated accessory renal artery, and contributes to maintaining the postoperative renal function of the donor.
Initial experience with brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in India – Multicentric, real-world study
Authors: Singh Deependra Vikram , Agarwal Aniruddha , Goyal Anubhav , Shroff Daraius , Singh Jatinder , Kumar Pradeep , Reddy Raja Rami , Venkatesh Ramesh , Narnaware Shilpi , Joshi Shrinivas , Singh Deependra V , Narula Ritesh , Joshi Aishwarya , Agarwal Aniruddha , Goyal Anubhav , Gupta Charu , Shroff Daraius , Anantharaman Giridhar , Singh Jatinder , Kumar Pradeep , Bawankule Prashant , Reddy Raja Rami , Jain Rajiv , Venkatesh Ramesh , Tiwari Ruchir , Sugumar Shalini , Gupta Shashank Rai , Narnaware Shilpi , Joshi Shrinivas , Choudhary Somendra P
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the anatomic and visual outcomes and safety profile of initial Indian eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated with intravitreal injection (IVI) of brolucizumab.

Methods:

This retrospective multicentric, real-world study enrolled consecutive eyes with nAMD that were treated with IVI brolucizumab after it was launched in India in October 2020. Data collected for each eye included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CSFT), subretinal fluid (SRF), and intraretinal fluid (IRF) status at 6, 12, and 24 months follow-up. Also recorded were the lens status, treatment protocol, number of injections received before enrollment (in switch-over cases), total number of injections, and adverse effects noticed during the study period. Primary outcomes were change in BCVA, CSFT at follow-up visits, and incidence of intraocular inflammation (IOI). Secondary outcomes were profile of macular neovascularization, treatment protocols, mean number of injections, and maximum injection-free interval observed in eyes treated by pro-re-nata (PRN) protocol.

Results:

In total, 331 eyes received a mean of 3.55 ± 1.83 injections. Most frequent treatment protocol was PRN (53%). BCVA data was available for 100%, 96%, and 74% eyes at 6, 12, and 24 months follow-up. BCVA and CSFT improved significantly (P < 0.001) at all follow-ups. Two hundred and seventy-six (83.38%) out of 331 eyes received more than one injection; out of these, 241 (87.3%) eyes that were treated by PRN protocol could achieve mean “maximum injection-free interval” of 19.43 ± 8.82 weeks. IOI and retinal vasculitis were reported in 2.11% (7/331) and 0.60% (2/331) eyes, respectively. None of the eyes with IOI or vasculitis lost any vision at the final follow-up.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated favorable visual and anatomic outcomes and safety profile for eyes with nAMD treated by IVI brolucizumab. Mean maximum injection-free interval in eyes treated with PRN was 19 weeks.
Association between major dietary patterns and mental health problems among college students
Authors: Fayyazi Elahe , Mohammadi Elahe , Aghamohammadi Vahideh
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Mental health problems, specifically, depression, anxiety, and stress are among the major public health issues worldwide. Diet modification can be a helpful strategy for the prevention and management of psychological disorders. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the association between major dietary patterns and mental health problems among Iranian college students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 412 college students. Dietary intakes were assessed using a 168-item semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). The 42-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale was applied to evaluate subjects’ mental health. Major dietary patterns were identified using principal component analysis. Logistic regression was applied to assess the association between major dietary patterns and mental health problems.

RESULTS:

Participants in the third tertile of the “plant-based” dietary pattern had lower odds of depression compared with the first tertile, after adjustment for the potential confounders [odds ratio (OR) = 0.44, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.17–0.65, P trend <0.01 for model I and OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.17–0.67, P trend <0.01 for model II]. The “plant-based” dietary pattern showed no significant association with the risk of stress and anxiety. However, this association for anxiety became marginally significant in model II (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.36–0.98, P trend = 0.07). The “Western” dietary pattern also was not associated with the likelihood of depression, stress, and anxiety.

CONCLUSION:

A strong inverse association was observed between the “plant-based” dietary pattern and depression. While the “Western” dietary pattern was not associated with mental health problems among college students, further prospective studies are warranted.
Behavioral modification strategies for tobacco cessation: A scoping review
Authors: Vats Saumya , Gupta Ritu , Rajeev Ananthalekshmy , Gupta Bhuvandeep , Sharma Dipanshi , Mehrotra Kartiki
Published: November 2024

Tobacco use remains a global public health challenge, with numerous associated health risks. Behavioral modification strategies have played a pivotal role in helping individuals achieve and maintain tobacco cessation. This scoping review aims to compare different behavioral modifications for tobacco cessation counseling. A literature search was performed in PubMed Central, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library up to 2023 to identify appropriate studies. Full text of original research articles, in vivo studies, randomized control trials, and observational studies were only included in the study. Eighteen articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and articles were available through the electronic database. Tobacco cessation counseling depends heavily on behavioral modification, which provides individuals with an organized and evidence-based approach to quitting smoking. Various behavior change theories and models, such as the Transtheoretical Model, Social Cognition Model, and Theory of Planned Behavior, have been used to help people effectively stop smoking. Most studies used the Transtheoretical model for tobacco cessation since it assisted in quitting both smoking and smokeless tobacco users and can be beneficial in persuading individuals to quit tobacco usage. This scoping review reveals that Behavioral modification strategies have demonstrated their efficacy in facilitating tobacco cessation, providing valuable insights into the diverse approaches available to support individuals in quitting tobacco use.
Positive mental health in nursing training: Are Moroccan nursing and health technician students flourished?
Authors: Touil Driss , Archou Rachida , Ouadrhiri Merieme , Amazian Mounia , Boucetta Mustapha , Amazian Kamelia
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Psychological flourishing is a component of positive mental health that characterizes the lives of nursing and health technology students, despite the stressful situations they experience during this training. The objective of this study is to evaluate psychological flourishing and to put the thumb on its importance in the training of nursing and health technique students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional descriptive–analytical study was conducted at the two higher institutes of nursing and health technical professions in Fez and Rabat between 1 March and 30 March 2022, using a questionnaire containing socio-demographic characteristics, training characteristics, a perceived stress scale (PSS10) and a psychological flourishing scale.

RESULTS:

This study allowed us to describe very correct levels of flourishing with high average scores for all items on the scale of psychological flourishing. Except that female students are more flourished compared to their male colleagues, the effect of socio-demographic data on well-being outcomes has been found to be the least important among other factors. Psychological flourishing is positively related to perceived stress, with the most flourished students displaying positive stress that stimulates students and pushes them to achieve their goals.

CONCLUSION:

Because the most flourished students manifest a positive stress stimulating the student and pushing them to achieve their goals, training managers and decision-makers are advised to include elements that reinforce the positive mental health of students in training programs to give all students the opportunity to deal with any psychological problem that may impact their mental health.
Examining the impact of the exercise package on eye and neck strain (EPENS) among adolescents: A pre-experimental study at a selected preuniversity college in Mangalore
Authors: Kannappan Sujatha R. , Alva Jeevitha , Dsa Vinita Bindiya
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Electronic devices like laptops, desktops, and cell phones are now essential in modern life, especially for students, due to their convenience and time-saving benefits. However, concerns about social issues related to prolonged use, particularly among kids and teenagers, have arisen. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an exercise package in mitigating symptoms of eye and neck strain among adolescents who are regular users of electronic devices.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Employing a pre-experimental one-group pretest–posttest research design, 98 participants were selected from a pool of 440 through purposive sampling. Data collection included sociodemographic variables and checklists for eye and neck strain symptoms. The Exercise Package for Eye and Neck Strain (EPENS) was demonstrated by the researcher, and participants practiced under supervision for four weeks. A pos-test, utilizing the same checklist, was conducted, and data were analyzed using SPSS Version 20. The McNemar Chi-square test was employed for comparison, with a significance level set at P < 0.05.

RESULT:

The majority of participants were females (53.9%), aged 17 years (98.0%), and reported using electronic devices for 1–2 h regularly (74.6%). Prevalent symptoms included burning, itching, headache, watery eyes, redness, and pain at the back of the eyes, with statistical significance (P < 0.001). The EPENS exercise package demonstrated effectiveness in reducing symptoms, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis.

CONCLUSIONS:

In conclusion, this study establishes that the EPENS exercise package is a valuable intervention for alleviating symptoms associated with eye and neck strain among adolescents. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating such exercises to mitigate the adverse effects of prolonged gadget use in this demographic.
Indigenously modified endoluminal vacuum-assisted closure therapy for post-operative gastrointestinal transmural defects: Case series and review of literature
Authors: Kalikar Vishakha , Basavraju Kiran , Ingle Meghraj , Patankar Roy
Published: November 2024

A gastrointestinal (GI) transmural defect is defined as a total rupture of the GI wall and these defects can be divided into three main categories, including perforation, leaks and fistulae. Recognition of the specific classification of the defect is important for choosing the best therapeutic modality. We present a case series of patients with gastrointestinal transmural defects which were managed with indigenously modified endoluminal vacuum-assisted closure.
An institutional approach to thick wall gall bladder and our experience of 5450 gallstone disease
Authors: Singh Bhanu Pratap , Pandey Anshuman , Sarda Hitesh , Hareesh S. N. , Regmi Sudip
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Gallstone disease (GSD) has a high prevalence in India. GSD presentation varies from being asymptomatic to severe complications. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the procedure of choice. Histopathological varies from chronic cholecystitis to carcinoma gall bladder (CaGB). Thick wall gall bladder (TWGB) is grey zone. Various parameters of GSD especially TWGB were evaluated to develop an approach to reduce perioperative complications and histopathological surprises.

Patients and Methods:

This study was conducted at the Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Dr. RMLIMS, Lucknow. Data of all patients undergoing cholecystectomy between January 2015 and March 2023 were analysed retrospectively. Demographic profile, clinical presentation, blood investigations, radiological findings, operative findings and histopathology report were examined. Clinical and radiological features of difficult cholecystectomies, incidence and type of bile duct injury (BDI), presentation and outcomes of TWGB, incidence of incidental CaGB and its outcome, were evaluated and analysed.

Results:

A total of 5450 patients underwent cholecystectomy during the study period. GSD is common in females and 4th decade. The laparoscopic to open conversion rate was 1.2%, the most common cause was unclear anatomy. The incidence of BDI in our series was 0.11% (n = 6). The most common histopathological outcome was chronic cholecystitis followed by xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis. Incidence of incidental carcinoma gall in our series was 0.3% (n = 16) with an overall survival of 68.75% at a mean follow-up of 19.4 months. TWGB workup includes contrast-enhanced computed tomography, intraoperative most have difficult cholecystectomy and had a higher rate of conversion, injury and incidental CaGB.

Conclusion:

Thorough pre-operative evaluation and using the suggested algorithm may decrease perioperative complications and histopathological surprises after LC.
To Compare and Evaluate the Efficacy of 1% Alendronate Gel and 10% Doxycycline Gel as an Adjunct to SRP in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Phassang Laloo , Kapoor Radhika , Tyagi Prashant , Wadhawan Amit
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Modern medicine has advanced drug delivery strategies for improved treatment outcomes with minimal systemic side effects. Local drug delivery is a promising approach, targeting therapeutic agents to specific tissues or organs, optimizing efficacy by concentrating medications at the site of action. This method offers advantages over systemic delivery, such as reduced dosage and frequency, minimized systemic toxicity, and the avoidance of gastrointestinal issues and first-pass metabolism. Researchers are continually seeking ways to enhance the safety and effectiveness of local drug delivery systems through new materials.

Aim and Objectives:

To evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy of 1% alendronate gel and 10% doxycycline gel when used as an adjunct to scaling and root planning in the treatment of patients with chronic periodontitis.

Methodology:

The study was conducted in Shree Bankey Bihari Dental College & Research Centre in Ghaziabad. In this randomized controlled trial, the impact of the local drug delivery agents on the pocket depths of 45 patients was assessed over six months. Changes in gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), probing pocket depth (PPD), and relative attachment level (RAL) were measured across three groups: a control group (Group C) and two experimental groups (Group A and B). Acrylic stents were used to evaluate probing depth and attachment loss post-surgery, determining the relative attachment level.

Results:

At 3 and 6 months post-treatment, Group A showed superior results in gingival index, plaque index, probing depth, and relative attachment level compared to Group B. Both Groups A and B demonstrated significant improvements over Group C. A statistically significant difference was observed when comparing Groups A and B separately.

Conclusion:

The study found that both Group A and Group B showed better outcomes than Group C at the 3- and 6-month marks. A statistically significant difference was observed between Group A and Group B, with Group A (SRP + 1% alendronate gel) outperforming Group B (SRP + 10% doxycycline gel) in improving the periodontal index, sulcular depth, and relative attachment level.
Inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in microglia decreases neuroinflammation after spinal cord injury
Authors: Zhang Wei , Lu Yubao , Shen Ruoqi , Wu Yingjie , Liu Chenrui , Fang Xingxing , Zhang Liangming , Liu Bin , Rong Limin
Published: November 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202510000-00026/figure1/v/2024-11-26T163120Z/r/image-tiff

Microglia, the resident monocyte of the central nervous system, play a crucial role in the response to spinal cord injury. However, the precise mechanism remains unclear. To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which microglia regulate the neuroinflammatory response to spinal cord injury, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing dataset analysis, focusing on changes in microglial subpopulations. We found that the MG1 subpopulation emerged in the acute/subacute phase of spinal cord injury and expressed genes related to cell pyroptosis, sphingomyelin metabolism, and neuroinflammation at high levels. Subsequently, we established a mouse model of contusive injury and performed intrathecal injection of siRNA and molecular inhibitors to validate the role of ceramide synthase 5 in the neuroinflammatory responses and pyroptosis after spinal cord injury. Finally, we established a PC12-BV2 cell co-culture system and found that ceramide synthase 5 and pyroptosis-associated proteins were highly expressed to induce the apoptosis of neuron cells. Inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in a mouse model of spinal cord injury effectively reduced pyroptosis. Furthermore, ceramide synthase 5-induced pyroptosis was dependent on activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway. Inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in microglia in vivo reduced neuronal apoptosis and promoted recovery of neurological function. Pla2g7 formed a “bridge” between sphingolipid metabolism and ceramide synthase 5-mediated cell death by inhibiting the NLRP3 signaling pathway. Collectively, these findings suggest that inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in microglia after spinal cord injury effectively suppressed microglial pyroptosis mediated by NLRP3, thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.
Recovery of the injured neural system through gene delivery to surviving neurons in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Sharma Chanchal , Kim Sehwan , Eo Hyemi , Kim Sang Ryong
Published: November 2024

A critical unaddressed problem in Parkinson’s disease is the lack of therapy that slows or hampers neurodegeneration. While medications effectively manage symptoms, they offer no long-term benefit because they fail to address the underlying neuronal loss. This highlights that the elusive goals of halting progression and restoring damaged neurons limit the long-term impact of current approaches. Recent clinical trials using gene therapy have demonstrated the safety of various vector delivery systems, dosages, and transgenes expressed in the central nervous system, signifying tangible and substantial progress in applying gene therapy as a promising Parkinson’s disease treatment. Intriguingly, at diagnosis, many dopamine neurons remain in the substantia nigra, offering a potential window for recovery and survival. We propose that modulating these surviving dopamine neurons and axons in the substantia nigra and striatum using gene therapy offers a potentially more impactful therapeutic approach for future research. Moreover, innovative gene therapies that focus on preserving the remaining elements may have significant potential for enhancing long-term outcomes and the quality of life for patients with Parkinson’s disease. In this review, we provide a perspective on how gene therapy can protect vulnerable elements in the substantia nigra and striatum, offering a novel approach to addressing Parkinson’s disease at its core.
О критериях распространения булевых функций с двудольными ассоциированными графами Кэли
Authors: Isaev Gleb Andreevich , Logachev Oleg Aleksejevich
Published: November 2024

В работе рассмотрены вопросы синтеза и анализа параметризованных классов булевых функций, асимптотически хороших относительно критерия распространения. Основой для построения таких классов булевых функций явилась конструкция, предложенная А. Бернаскони (A. Bernasconi) и Б. Коденотти (B. Codenotti) в 2000 г., использующая двудольный граф Кэли булевой функции. Приводится конструктивное описание классов булевых функций, асимптотически хороших относительно критерия распространения. Изучены основные свойства таких классов и получены нижние оценки их мощностей.
Acellular fish skin grafts in diabetic foot ulcer care: Advances and clinical insights
Authors: Zhao Yu , Shen Quan-Quan
Published: November 2024

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) represents a significant public health issue, with a rising global prevalence and severe potential complications including amputation. Traditional treatments often fall short due to various limitations such as high recurrence rates and extensive resource utilization. This editorial explores the innovative use of acellular fish skin grafts as a transformative approach in DFU management. Recent studies and a detailed case report highlight the efficacy of acellular fish skin grafts in accelerating wound closure, reducing dressing changes, and enhancing patient outcomes with a lower socio-economic burden. Despite their promise, challenges such as limited availability, patient acceptance, and the need for further research persist. Addressing these through more extensive randomized controlled trials and fostering a multidisciplinary treatment approach may optimize DFU care and reduce the global health burden associated with these complex wounds.
Diabetes mellitus and glymphatic dysfunction: Roles for oxidative stress, mitochondria, circadian rhythm, artificial intelligence, and imaging
Authors: Maiese Kenneth
Published: November 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a debilitating disorder that impacts all systems of the body and has been increasing in prevalence throughout the globe. DM represents a significant clinical challenge to care for individuals and prevent the onset of chronic disability and ultimately death. Underlying cellular mechanisms for the onset and development of DM are multi-factorial in origin and involve pathways associated with the production of reactive oxygen species and the generation of oxidative stress as well as the dysfunction of mitochondrial cellular organelles, programmed cell death, and circadian rhythm impairments. These pathways can ultimately involve failure in the glymphatic pathway of the brain that is linked to circadian rhythms disorders during the loss of metabolic homeostasis. New studies incorporate a number of promising techniques to examine patients with metabolic disorders that can include machine learning and artificial intelligence pathways to potentially predict the onset of metabolic dysfunction.
Exploring the half-metallic behavior and spintronic potential of Cr-doped CaTe
Authors: Drissi El Bouzaidi M. , Ahl Laamara R.
Published: November 2024

The pursuit of miniaturized, high-performance electronic devices has intensified research into novel materials with extraordinary properties. While semiconductors lead the way in optoelectronics and energy harvesting, the burgeoning field of spintronics utilizing electron charge and spin promises revolutionary advances in information processing and storage. A critical component of spintronics is identifying materials with half-metallic behavior, characterized by complete spin polarization at the Fermi level. This study explores chromium (Cr)-doped CaTe as a candidate for half-metallic behavior. Using advanced computational techniques, we investigate the impact of Cr doping on the electronic and magnetic properties of CaTe. Our findings reveal that Cr-doped CaTe exhibits significant crystal field splitting and exchange splitting energies, leading to robust magnetic properties and half-metallic behavior across varying doping concentrations. Notably, the Curie temperature of Cr-doped CaTe exceeds room temperature starting from a 14% Cr concentration, highlighting its practical viability for spintronic applications. The results underscore the potential of Cr-doped CaTe for integration into spintronic devices, offering insights into the electronic structure and magnetic interactions essential for developing next-generation spintronic technologies.
KEY WORDS: Half-metallic behavior, Spintronics, Chromium doping, Curie temperature, Magnetic properties, CaTe (Calcium telluride).
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(2), 341-350.                                                                
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i2.12
Incorporation of ginger peel polyphenol into yogurt improves its stability: Physicochemical and microbiological characterizations
Authors: A. Almehizia Abdulrahman , A. Al-Omar Mohamed , M. Naglah Ahmed , A. Zen Amer , Abdur Rouf Md. , Husna Nupur Asmaul , Saydar Rahamn Md. , Majid A. Adam Abdel , Anisur Rahman Mazumder Md.
Published: November 2024

Microencapsulation is a novel process of plant-extracted polyphenol enrichment into yogurt to extend storage stability with improved quality. This study was intended to develop and characterize functional yogurt that had been microencapsulated with ginger-extracted polyphenol to observe stability at refrigeration temperature (4 ± 1 °C). The phenolic content, microencapsulation efficiency, physiochemical properties, texture, microbiological, and sensory properties were evaluated. The microencapsulation efficiency was found to be 94.40 ± 0.05%. In comparison to the dairy yogurt, the polyphenol-enriched yogurt was darker and had a lower a* (redness to greenness) value and a higher b* (yellowness to blueness) value. Yogurt with added polyphenols decreased the rate at which the pH changed. The phenolic yogurt sample outperformed the control yogurt in terms of water-holding capacity and syneresis. The texture of the treated sample was also superior after three weeks of storage compared to the control. In phenolic yogurt, the rate of Lactobacillus viability decline was reduced. Including ginger extract in yogurt reduced the sensory score in color, flavor, taste, and overall acceptability, but the decreasing rate was reduced. This study demonstrates that the ginger extract polyphenol can be effectively microencapsulated to increase yogurt stability under refrigeration.
KEY WORDS: Ginger, Polyphenols¸ Microencapsulation, Yogurt, Shelf life
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(2), 201-213.                                                        
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i2.2
Artificial Intelligence for the Ethiopian health system: blessing or curse?
Authors: Girma Eshetu
Published: November 2024

No abstract
Practicality of frozen section at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital: a pilot study
Authors: Debebe Melat , Ergete Wondwossen , Shiferaw Bethelhem , Afework Veronica , Ashenafi Senait , Damie Amanuel
Published: November 2024

Background: Frozen section is an intraoperative rapid diagnostic tool that could direct a patient's intra- or postoperative therapy. Given the importance of frozen section in the management of surgical patients and the lack of published research in Ethiopia, it is prudent to evaluate its efficacy in our setting.Methods: A prospective diagnostic accuracy study was done on 39 samples from June 2022 to December 2022. Cases were selected based on suspicion of a neoplasm and where there was an indication to perform frozen section. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 23. Findings were demonstrated using text, charts and diagrams.Results: The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of frozen section as opposed to histopathological diagnosis using paraffin-embedded samples was found to be 92.3%, 88% and 95.2%, 94.1%, 90.9%, respectively. The mean turnaround time for frozen section was found to be 23 minutes.Conclusion: The accuracy, ability to detect true positive cases, and ability to exclude false-positive cases of frozen section diagnosis in this research are consistent with most worldwide quality assurance data for frozen section. Despite its constraints, frozen section is a highly dependable method when carried out by experienced personnel, in the study context.
Sensibilisation et gestion de l’hygiène menstruelle en milieux du travail et scolaires dans la ville province de Kinshasa
Authors: Kutakani Didier , Kisudikila Likuikila Jérémie , Mwaley A Mandev Charles
Published: November 2024

L’hygiène menstruelle et sa gestion méritent une attention particulière de tous pour une santé saine et équilibrée, mais également pour porter une attention soutenue à notre environnement, d’autant plus que la mauvaise prise en charge de cet état féminin crée un déséquilibre par l’indisposition physique de la femme et, par ricochet, de son partenaire, affectant ainsi le milieu vital et environnemental. De la sorte, la gestion menstruelle est un devoir nécessaire dans le but d’obtenir cette quiétude susceptible d’inciter de grandes mutations sociales. L’homme étant le centre nerveux de tous les changements, sa sérénité physique et mentale constitue le fer de lance pour maintenir ce dernier sain. La gestion de l’hygiène menstruelle, apparemment un problème simple, doit être prise très au sérieux car l’ensemble des facteurs systémiques semble la bannir ; or, les menstruations sont liées à la santé, à l’égalité des sexes, à l’éducation, à l’émancipation et aux droits égaux de la nature humaine. Sensibilisons toutes les couches de la population congolaise en général à bannir les pratiques inhumaines qui avilissent l’être humain dans son sens profond, telles que : le mysticisme, les préjugés, le tabou, la discrimination de la femme par l’homme autour des menstruations, qui sont par ailleurs un processus biologique naturel lié à la vraie nature de la femme, par lequel nous venons à la vie.
An overview of ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacological action of selected medicinal plants
Authors: Nithya R. , Raj Bincy , Tiwari Prasanth
Published: November 2024

The plants Acorus calamus, Withania somnifera, Clitoria ternatea, Centella asiatica, Wedillia chinensis, Cissus quadrenqularis are the commonly used plants in South India in day-to-day life as part of food as well as to treat many diseases as traditional medicine, Cassytha filiformis is a parasite herb which is used in many parts of the world for traditional medicine. Like food, these are consumed for immunity, energy, vitamin and mineral sources as well as home remedies for certain health conditions. As a medicine, these plants have many Phytochemical constituents which are the reason for their biological activity. Various secondary metabolites were found from these plants including Alkaloids, Terpenoids, Saponins, Tannins, Flavonoids, etc and multiple biological activities were established by in-vivo and in vitro studies so far. In the future also, studies need to be carried out to bring effective medicines to cure various new diseases in humans.
Synthesis and bio performance of encapsulated antimalarial co-artemeter in mesoporous nanosilica vesicle
Authors: Oladipo O.P. , Jinadu L.A. , Oladoyinbo F.O. , Sobola A.O. , Lawal A. , Obaleye J.A. , Ademowo O.G. , Balogun E.A. , Amolegbe S.A.
Published: November 2024

Nano carrier vessel is a new approach for ultimate delivery of drugs. This research work synthesised Mobile Composition of Matter (MCM-41) [1] for loading of two antimalarial drugs: MCM-41Artemether(ATM) [2] and MCM-41Lumefantrine(LFT) [3] under varying time, pH and temperature effects. FT-IR spectra depict major functional groups of the silanol group (Si-OH) and silaxone (Si-O) at 3450 and 964 cm-1, respectively for the 1, while 2 and 3 exhibited only functional groups similar to the parent silica core. 1 had average pore diameter of 5.16 nm while 2 and 3 pore sizes decreased to 4.04 and 3.16 nm, respectively due to the adsorption of the drugs. Morphology of 1 is spherical while 2 and 3 have distorted rod-like shapes attributed to the drugs impregnation as obtained from SEM. The optimal loading conditions of 2 at pH 3.5 ambient temperature, and 3 h gave drug loading capacity (DLC) of 79% and entrapment efficiency (EE) of 65% compared to 3 with DLC of 77% and EE of 50% attributable to the size effect. For the in vitro kinetic release of 2 at 1 h, ambient temperature and pH 3.5 gave 61.4% optimal release, which was very much higher compared to 3 of 7.4% at 0.5 h with other conditions similar. The in vivo measurement of 1 showed better bio performance for Plasmodium berghei NK65 parasite clearance in infected mice on the third day compared to 2 or 3 for nanodrugs and the individual parent drugs. This study confirmed the suitability of 1 for better delivery of ATM and LFT antimalarial drugs.