bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between lifestyle and positive psychological functioning in university administrative staff
Authors: González-Cantero Joel Omar , González-Becerra Victor Hugo , Hernández-Magaña Carmen Elvira , Macías-Espinoza Fabiola , Morón-Vera José Ángel , Abundis-Gutiérrez Alicia
Published: October 2021

In Mexico, healthy lifestyle has a low prevalence. The importance of a healthy lifestyle lies in avoiding the emergence of a chronic non-communicable disease. Thus, university administrative personnel are a vulnerable population due to working conditions that prevent them from having a healthy lifestyle, so it is necessary to analyze psychological variables that can explain how to promote and develop a healthy lifestyle. The purposes of this study were to identify relationships among lifestyle (LS) and positive psychological functioning (PPF) and their differences by gender in the administrative staff; a cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted. University administrative staff (n = 102), were recruited using the snowball sampling method, forming a non-probabilistic sample, completed the Fantastic Lifestyle Questionnaire and the Positive Psychological Functioning Scale. LS has a statistically significant correlation with PPF (r = .355, p = .001); in addition, it is worth pointing out that showing a low level of PPF implies a lower probability of having a healthy LS (Ψ = 28.333, 4.965 – 161.675). Results suggest the relevance of interventions to develop psychological resources in people seeking the adoption of a healthy LS.
Hydrological impacts of climate and land-use change on flow regime variations in upper Indus basin
Authors: Haleem Kashif , Khan Afed Ullah , Ahmad Sohail , Khan Mansoor , Khan Fayaz Ahmad , Khan Wisal , Khan Jehanzeb
Published: October 2021

Investigating the effects of climate and land-use changes on surface runoff is critical for water resources management. The majority of studies focused on projected climate change effects on surface runoff, while neglecting future land-use change. Therefore, the main aim of this article is to discriminate the impacts of projected climate and land-use changes on surface runoff using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) through the lens of the Upper Indus Basin, Pakistan. Future scenarios of the land-use and climate changes are predicted using cellular automata artificial neural network and four bias-corrected general circulation models, respectively. The historical record (2000–2013) was divided into the calibration period (2000–2008) and the validation period (2009–2013). The simulated results demonstrated that the SWAT model performed well. The results obtained from 2000 to 2013 show that climate change (61.61%) has a higher influence on river runoff than land-use change (38.39%). Both climate and land-use changes are predicted to increase future runoff depth in this basin. The influence of climate change (12.76–25.92%) is greater than land-use change (0.37–1.1%). Global weather data has good applicability for simulating hydrological responses in the region where conventional gauges are unavailable. The study discusses that both climate and land-use changes impact runoff depth and concludes with some suggestions for water resources managers to bring water environment sustainability.
Evaluation of power generation and treatment efficiency of dairy wastewater in microbial fuel cell using TiO2 – SPEEK as proton exchange membrane
Authors: Vidhyeswari D. , Surendhar A. , Bhuvaneshwari S.
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study is to synthesise SPEEK composite proton exchange membrane with the addition of TiO2 nanofillers for microbial fuel cell application. SPEEK composite membrane with varying weight percentage of TiO2 (2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10%) was prepared to study the effect of TiO2 concentration on membrane performance. Synthesized composite membranes were subjected to various characterization studies such as FT-IR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, TGA, UTM and SEM. Physico-chemical properties of membrane such as water uptake capacity, ion exchange capacity and thickness were also analyzed. 5% TiO2 – SPEEK composite membrane exhibited the higher water uptake capacity value and Ion exchange capacity value of 31% and 1.71 meq/g respectively. Performance of the MFC system with TiO2 – SPEEK membranes were evaluated and compared with the pristine SPEEK and Nafion membrane. 5% TiO2 – SPEEK membrane produced the higher power density (1.22 W/m2) and voltage (0.635 V) than the other membranes investigated. Efficacy of MFC in wastewater treatment was evaluated based on the chemical oxygen demand (COD), total organic carbon content and turbidity. Biofilm growth over the surface of the electrodes was also analyzed using scanning electron microscopy.
Covid-19 Aşısı Olma Durumu ve Covid-19'dan Korunmanın Sağlık İnanç Modeli Bağlamında Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: Gök Gülhan , Güzel Ümmühan
Published: October 2021

Devletlerin varlığını istendik şekilde sürdürebilmesi, sağlıklı bir toplum yapısına sahip olmasıyla mümkündür. İçinde bulunduğumuz salgın döneminde bunu sağlayabilmek ancak aşı çalışmalarıyla olasıdır. Bu doğrultuda çalışmanın amacı “öğretmenlerin ve sağlık çalışanlarının Covid-19 aşısı olma durumunun belirlenmesi, aşıya ilişkin görüşlerinin tespit edilmesi, Covid-19 ve Covid-19 aşısına ilişkin algılarının neler olduğunun belirlenmesi”dir. Nicel araştırma tasarımında anket yönteminin kullanıldığı çalışma, durum tespitine yönelik ilişkisel tarama modelindedir. Araştırma kapsamında 517 kişiye ulaşılmıştır. Edinilen veriler istatistik programı aracılığıyla analiz edilmiştir. Bireylerin aşı olma durumunu etkileyen en önemli faktörün 'kendini korumak' olduğu belirlenmiştir. Gerçekleştirilen bağımsız örneklem t-Testi sonucunda Covid-19'a yakalanma durumuna göre Sağlık İnanç Modeli boyutlarında farklılık olmadığı görülmüştür. Yapılan One Way Anova Testi sonucunda Sağlık İnanç Modelinin tüm boyutları bakımından anlamlı farklılık olduğu bulunmuştur. Araştırmada, katılımcıların Covid-19 duyarlılığı ve Covid-19 aşısına ilişkin yarar algısı orta düzeydedir. Covid-19 aşısı olmaya ilişkin engel algıları düşüktür. Diğer taraftan Covid-19 aşısı olmaya ilişkin ipuçları sağlık çalışanlarında orta düzeyde, öğretmenlerde düşük düzeydedir.
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) Synergize with Cisplatin, Induce Apoptosis and Suppress Cellular Migration and Colony Formation of Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Alsous Lina , Bardaweel Sanaa
Published: October 2021

Background:

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hence, novel therapeutic approaches targeting crucial pathways are needed to improve its treatment. Previous studies have verified the involvement of the estrogen pathway, mediated through estrogen receptor β (ERβ), in the development and progression of lung carcinogenesis. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are a group of estrogen receptor agonists/antagonists that have tissue selective effects. Many of the available SERMs are used for the management of breast cancer. However, their role in lung cancer is still under investigation.

Objectives:

The aim of this research is to investigate the anti-tumorigenic activity of the selective estrogen receptor modulators, tamoxifen, raloxifene, and toremifene, against different lung cancer cell lines.

Methods:

The anti-proliferative and combined effects of SERMs with standard chemotherapy were evaluated by MTT assay. Cell migration was assessed using a wound-healing assay. The mechanism of cell death was determined using the Annexin V-FITC/ propidium iodide staining flow cytometry method. Cells’ capability to form colonies was evaluated by soft agar colony formation assay. Estrogen receptors expression was determined using real-time PCR.

Results:

Our results have demonstrated the presence of ERβ in A549, H1299, and H661 lung cancer cells. Cellular proliferation assay suggested that SERMs have significantly reduced lung cancer cells proliferation in a time and concentration- dependent manner. Additionally, SERMs exhibited a synergistic effect against A549 cells when combined with cisplatin. SERMs treatment have increased cell apoptosis and resulted in concentration-dependent inhibition of cell migration and colony formation of A549 cells.

Conclusion:

Selective estrogen receptor modulators may possess potential therapeutic utility for the treatment of lung cancer as monotherapy or in combination with standard chemotherapy.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Biological Evaluation of 2,3-Diphenylquinoxaline
Derivatives as a Tubulin’s Colchicine Binding Site Inhibitor Based on Primary Virtual
Screening
Authors: Amanlou Massoud , Rezaei Zahra , Asadi Mehdi , Montazer Mohammad Nazari , Rezaeiamiri Elnaz , Bahadorikhalili Saeed , Amini Mohsen
Published: October 2021

Background and Objective:

Tubulin inhibitors have proved to be a promising treatment against cancer.
Tubulin inhibitors target different areas in microtubule structure to exert their effects. The colchicine binding site
(CBS) is one of them for which there is no FDA-approved drug yet. This makes CBS a desirable target for drug design.

Materials and Methods:

Primary virtual screening is done by developing a possible pharmacophore model of colchicine
binding site inhibitors of tubulins, and 2,3-diphenylquinoxaline is chosen as a lead compound to synthesis. In this
study, 28 derivatives of 2,3-diphenylquinoxalines are synthesized, and their cytotoxicity is evaluated by the MTT assay
in different human cancer cell lines, including AGS (Adenocarcinoma gastric cell line), HT-29 (Human colorectal
adenocarcinoma cell line), NIH3T3 (Fibroblast cell line), and MCF-7 (Human breast cancer cell).

Results:

Furthermore, the activity of the studied compounds was investigated using computational methods involving
molecular docking of the 2,3-diphenylquinoxaline derivatives to β-tubulin. The results showed that the compounds
with electron donor functionalities in positions 2 and 3 and electron-withdrawing groups in position 6 are the most
active tubulin inhibitors.

Conclusion:

Apart from the high activity of the synthesized compounds, the advantage of this report is the ease of the
synthesis, work-up, and isolation of the products in safe, effective, and high-quality isolated yields.
QSAR Docking on Azoles as Inhibitors of Notum Carboxylesterase
Authors: Sivaperuman Amuthalakshmi , Natarajan Ramalakshmi , P Manimegalai , Subramani Arunkumar , Ayarivan Puratchikody
Published: October 2021

Background:

Carboxylesterase Notum is a negative regulator of Wnt signaling. Notum
carboxylesterase is a carboxylic ester hydrolase enzyme that functions as a negative feedback regulator
of Wnt proteins by depalmitoylation reaction. It is of great importance to understand the pathway
of Wnt regulation because, conversely, misregulation of Wnt signaling is a telltale sign of cancer
and other degenerative diseases. The Wnt inhibition is important in the control of colorectal cancer.

Objective:

In the present study, we carried out a QSAR analysis of a series of reported compounds
with carboxylesterase Notum inhibitory activity using multiple regression analysis. A series of 83
compound datasets of pyrrole derivatives with carboxy Notum inhibitory values were taken from
the reported literature.

Methods:

The study was performed by conducting multiple linear regression analysis followed by
validation of the model. The multiple linear regression (MLR) models with the highest coefficients
of correlation (R2) and explained variance in leave-one-out (Q2 LOO) prediction and leave- manyout
(Q2 LMO) were selected for the whole dataset. The developed models were subjected to internal
and external validation. The reliability of the predicted model was checked by plotting the Williams
plot. The docking methodology was performed using Autodock 4 for the designed compounds
to study the interaction between the ligand and the receptor.

Results:

The best model generated exhibited an r2 value of 0.7413, Q2LOO =0.6379, Q2LMO
=0.6368. Novel compounds of phenyl pyrrolidine were designed based on generated QSAR equations.
The carboxylesterase Notum inhibitory activity was predicted using the QSAR equations.
The docking studies were carried out for designed compounds using Autodock against Carboxylesterase
Notum esterase.

Conclusion:

From the results, the designed compounds were found to inhibit Notum Carboxylase.
Thus, the study led to the development of a novel lead compound for Carboxylesterase Notum.
Measuring Sustainable Livelihood in The Border Areas: The Case Study of Sangihe Island, North Sulawesi
Authors: Khurun'in Irza , Purnomo Joko
Published: October 2021

This paper measures sustainable livelihood through the government poverty reduction program in Indonesia's border areas. We drew on primary field data sources and secondary data, including oral histories, in-depth interviews about livelihood, ecological, and documented evidence of environmental, socioeconomic, and institutional dynamics to identify the sustainability of poverty reduction programs. We use this information to understand whether the program is resilient or vulnerable. Cross-border areas are the most strategic position in building a country's image. One of the development priorities is to develop Indonesia from the periphery by strengthening regions and villages within the framework of a unitary state, especially the outermost villages and border villages. Sangihe Islands Regency is one of the border areas located in North Sulawesi Province. This paper is an initial analysis of the development of border areas and poverty alleviation programs in the Sangihe Islands Regency. The Sustainable Livelihood Approach is used to assess poverty reduction strategies in the Sangihe Islands Regency. The research shows that poverty in the Sangihe Islands Regency has become a main priority in the development program of the Sangihe Regional Government. National and Provincial governments support this program through the implementation of poverty alleviation. This program has had positive results, but it is vulnerable because it does not focus on sustainability.
Antara Ideologi dan Ketimpangan: Justifikasi Kekerasan FARC di Kolombia
Authors: Lavinia Nia
Published: October 2021

In analyzing armed conflict, or any other political violence, it must be viewed as something that didn't emerge from the void. Violence cannot be explained by one variable only, such as ideology or objective reality. Both variables intertwined and justified one another. This article attempts to demonstrate how those variables justify such political violence in Columbia. This article concluded that aside from encouraging violence, an acute structural problem, as demonstrated by inequality or injustice, also provides an ideal condition for the formation of the FARC that embodied Marxism-Leninism ideas. The intertwined Ideology and Structural Problem justifies terror and violence conducted by FARC. Terror and violence are viewed as the only effective tactics in a situation where demobilization and political struggle through peaceful means only produce destruction for them.
Development of Instagram and YouTube Content Videos’ for Online Learning
Authors: Dewanti Septinda Rima , Sujarwo Sujarwo
Published: October 2021

Instructional videos uploaded on Instagram and Youtube for online learning media teachers are facing a problem regarding the student's complicity in the learning process. To captivate the student's interest in the learning activity, the teacher needs to use innovative media. The study aims to develop an instructional video that is uploaded on Instagram and YouTube. The research used educational design research. The research procedure is 1) analysis of practical problems by the researcher; 2) development of prototype solutions informed by existing design principles; 3) testing and refinement. The study used questionnaires and interviews as the instrument. The number of subjects is 40 students The study results show that the video that was developed meets the criteria relevance, consistency, practicality, and effectiveness. The average score of the study is 3. The conclusion of the research is the instructional video uploaded on social media can improve students' activities in online learning. Recommendation for future study is to pay more attention to the urgency of instructional media in online education. Pengembangan Konten Video pada Instagram dan YouTube untuk Pembelajaran Daring Salah satu kendala pelaksanaan pembelajaran secara online adalah rendahnya keterlibatan mahasiswa. Pembelajaran dengan memanfaatkan media sosial diharapkan dapat meningkatkan minat belajar mahasiswa. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengembangkan video pembelajaran yang dapat diunggah di media sosial Instagram dan YouTube. Metode penelitian yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah educational design research. Prosedur penelitian yang dilakukan meliputi 1) penelitian pendahuluan; 2) tahap pengembangan atau prototipe; 3) tahap asesmen/evaluasi. Instrumen penelitian yang digunakan adalah kuisioner dan pedoman wawancara. Jumlah subjek pada penelitian ini adalah 40 mahasiswa. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah video pembelajaran yang dikembangkan memenuhi kriteria relevansi, konsistensi, kegunaan dan keefektifan yang ditunjukkan dengan rata-rata skor penilaian produk 3. Kesimpulan dari penelitian ini adalah media berupa video yang diunggah di media sosial, efektif membantu pelaksanaan pembelajaran daring bagi mahasiswa. Penelitian ini memberikan rekomendasi kepada peneliti selanjutnya terhadap urgensi penggunaan media pembelajaran yang menarik minat mahasiswa sehingga penelitian yang lebih mendalam tentang media pembelajaran perlu dilakukan.
Efficacy of a Web-Based Intervention for Depressive Disorders: Three-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Guided and Unguided Self-Help With Waitlist Control (Preprint)
Authors: Krämer Rico , Köhne-Volland Lea , Schumacher Anna , Köhler Stephan
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Digital health apps are efficacious treatment options for mild-to-moderate depressive disorders. However, the extent to which psychological guidance increases the efficacy of these apps is controversial.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the efficacy of a web-based intervention, called Selfapy, for unipolar depression. We also investigated differences between psychotherapist-guided and unguided versions.

METHODS

Selfapy is a cognitive behavioral therapy–based intervention for depressive disorders. Participants with mild-to-severe depressive disorders were assigned randomly to participate in either guided (weekly 25-minute duration telephone calls) intervention, unguided version, or waiting list (control group) for 12 weeks. We assessed depressive symptoms at the start of the study, midway through the intervention (6 weeks), at the end of the intervention (12 weeks), and at follow-up (6 months). The main outcome was difference in the Beck Depression Inventory score between the start of the study and the end of the intervention. Secondary outcomes were the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology—Self Report, the Hamilton Rating Depression Scale, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory.

RESULTS

Of 401 participants, 301 participants (75.1%) completed the intervention. Changes in the Beck Depression Inventory from baseline differed significantly between groups at the postintervention (F2,398=37.20, P<.001). The reductions in scores for both guided and unguided intervention groups were greater than that for the control group, with large between-group effect sizes (guided vs control: d=1.63, 95% CI 1.37 to 1.93; unguided vs control: d=1.47, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.73) at postintervention. No significant differences were found between guided and unguided intervention groups (P=.18). At follow-up (6 months), treatment effects on the primary outcome were maintained for both intervention groups (guided: F1,194=0.62, P>.999; unguided: F1,176=0.13, P>.999).

CONCLUSIONS

Both guided and unguided versions of the intervention were highly effective in reducing depressive symptoms. Follow-up data suggest that these effects could be maintained. The guided version was not superior to the unguided version.

CLINICALTRIAL

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00017191; https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5hnx

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.1186/s13063-021-05218-4
Detection of Cyberbullying on Social Media Using Machine learning
Authors: Roja Mitta
Published: October 2021

Abstract: Cyberbullying is a major problem encountered on internet that affects teenagers and also adults. It has lead to mishappenings like suicide and depression. Regulation of content on Social media platorms has become a growing need. The following study uses data from two different forms of cyberbullying, hate speech tweets from Twittter and comments based on personal attacks from Wikipedia forums to build a model based on detection of Cyberbullying in text data using Natural Language Processing and Machine learning. Threemethods for Feature extraction and four classifiers are studied to outline the best approach. For Tweet data the model provides accuracies above 90% and for Wikipedia data it givesaccuracies above 80%. Keywords: Cyberbullying, Hate speech, Personal attacks,Machine learning, Feature extraction, Twitter, Wikipedia
SARS CoV-2: Recomendaciones de limpieza y desinfección en entornos comunitarios
Authors: López Mora Dr. Eduardo , Cruz Dr. Rodrigo
Published: October 2021

Contexto del problemaAl inicio de la pandemia hubo datos publicados que lograron demostrar la persistencia de SARS -CoV-2 en ciertas superficies y materiales, generando seria preocupación acerca del rol de transmisión a través del contacto con superficies contaminadas, lo cual llevo al desarrollo de políticas de limpieza y desinfección en espacios públicos, que implican un alto costo y potenciales riesgo para la salud ante un uso inadecuado de estos productos. Estos datos iniciales de persistencia en materiales, en entornos controlados de laboratorio actualmente parecen no ser extrapolables a la vida real1.Dado el conocimiento actualizado, el mecanismo principal por el cual las personas se contagian con SARS-CoV-2 es a través de la exposición a gotitas respiratorias y aerosoles en espacios cerrados. El riesgo de transmisión a través del contacto con superficies u objetos contaminados se considera muy bajo1.En abril de 2021 los Centros para el Control y Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC) de EE. UU. publicó actualizaciones sobre recomendaciones de limpieza y desinfección en entornos extrahospitalarios basadas en la evidencia científica actualizada1. Este documento busca enfatizar ciertas estrategias de control en espacios públicos y el hogar, difundiendo así un uso racional de productos de limpieza y desinfección.
COVID-19, embarazo, vacunas y lactancia materna
Authors: Lopez Mora Dr. Eduardo , Espinoza Dr. Jorge , Dabanch Dra. Jeannette , Cruz Dr. Rodrigo
Published: October 2021

Las mujeres embarazadas o en período de lactancia han sido excluidas de los ensayos clínicos sobre vacunas contra SARS-CoV-2, evitando así la obtención de datos sólidos que permitan determinar la seguridad e inmunogenicidad de las vacunas en esta población, a la vez que se han asociado peores resultados maternos – fetales.La evidencia acerca de la seguridad e inmunogenicidad en esta población es limitada, en base a estudios observacionales, con pocos casos y en mujeres vacunadas con plataformas ARNm, en las cuales no se ha descrito por ahora una mayor asociación a eventos adversos relacionados a vacunas, como tampoco, variaciones significativas en la respuesta inmunológica en comparación a la población no embarazada. También existen datos que documentan la adquisición de anticuerpos transplacentarios, considerándose de bajo riesgo la posibilidad de transmisión vertical. Se hacen necesarios ensayos clínicos que permitan precisar recomendaciones basadas en evidencia para esta población, en un contexto de utilización de emergencia de vacunas contra SARS-CoV-2.
Epidemiología de la Onicomicosis Pedis en adultos hospitalizados en un servicio de medicina en un hospital de tercer nivel en Chile
Authors: Gubelin Dr. H. , Hasbún Dra. P. , Silva Dra. C. , Guglielmetti Dr. A. , Espinoza A.
Published: October 2021

La prevalencia global de la onicomicosis pedis es de 4,3%, y en hospitalizados puede llegar hasta 8,9%. Aun así, se propone que está ampliamente subdiagnosticada. Personas añosas con comorbilidades presentan mayor riesgo de onicomicosis pedis y de sus complicaciones. Se examinaron aleatoriamente a 64 pacientes hospitalizados en el Servicio de Medicina del Hospital San José. A aquellos con signos clínicos de onicomicosis pedis se les realizó un examen micológico directo (MD) y estudio histopatológico de un corte de uña teñido con PAS (Bp/PAS). Muestra de 64 pacientes, un 78,1% presentó onicomicosis pedis clínica y en un 70,3% se confirmó el diagnóstico con MD y/o Bp/PAS positivo. De los pacientes con onicomicosis confirmada, el promedio de edad fue de 67,8 +/- 12,3 años. Un 44% correspondió al sexo femenino y un 56% al sexo masculino. La onicomicosis pedis en el servicio de medicina interna del Hospital San José es una condición frecuente. El conjunto de MD y Bp/PAS podría ser considerado como una buena alternativa diagnóstica.
Efficacy Of Oral Probiotic Streptococcus Salivarius K12 In The Prevention Of Halitosis (Bad Breath): A Systematic Review
Authors: Marte Eva Koelemaij , John David Francis Hale , Rohit Jain
Published: October 2021

Halitosis (bad breath) describes the foul and repulsive odours detected in the breath of people. Oral commensal probiotic Streptococcus salivarius K12 (BLIS K12TM) has been recognised to offer potential benefit in oral health. This is due to its ability to colonise the oral cavity and ward off pathogens implicated causing oral and dental ailment such as halitosis. The aim of this systematic review was to search and analyse 1) the published literature on orally targeted S. salivarius probiotic strain K12 and 2) its effects in conjunction with oral hygiene measures in reduction of halitosis. The research questions were formulated according to the PICO strategy. A broad search for published articles was conducted using the electronic databases such MEDLINE through PubMed, SciFinder and Web of Science by two independent reviewers. The quality of the studies was assessed using the JADAD scale and the risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane Collaboration assessment tool. A total of 335 articles related to S. salivarius K12 were identified. Of these articles, after manually filtering out duplicates, 157 articles were identified as unique. All unique articles were screened on their titles and abstracts and another 154 were excluded. The full text of the remaining 3 articles were reviewed with relevance to halitosis were included in this review. The overall risk of bias of the selected trials was found to be of low risk. Studies with S. salivarius K12 demonstrated a significant reduction in halitosis parameters in conjunction with routine oral hygiene practices, especially when the application of the probiotic was combined with a pre-treatment of a strong mouthwash.
Lipid Lowering and Hepatoprotective Activity of Premna Tomentosa Leaf Extract (EPT) against Alcohol Induced Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Dr. T. Gomathi Priyadharsini  , Dr. M. Kavimani
Published: October 2021

The present  study aims to determine the  hepatoprotective and lipid lowering property  of ethanolic leaf extract  of Premna tomentosa (EPT) in alcohol induced hepatotoxicity. Chronic ethanol consumption is a significant danger factor in deciding liver disorders and other  metabolic conditions through  various mechanisms, including the  regulation of the  lipid metabolism. Medicinal plants are accepted  to be a significant wellspring of new chemical substances with expected  remedial impacts. Premna tomentosa (Verbenaceae) is a popular medicinal plant used extensively for the treatment of various ailments widely used in liver disorders.  In the present  research  study, the  male  albino  Wister rats were  grouped  (I-V) each consisting  of  6 animals. In-vivo administration of 40 %  ethanol (1 ml/100 gm b w/day) for 60  days resulted in  a significant elevation  in  Total  cholesterol, Triglycerides,  LDL, and VLDL levels  whereas  the  levels of  HDL was found to  be decreased  when compared  with  the control rats. Liver tissues disclose central vein and sinusoidal capillary dilation, interface hepatitis, cytoplasmic vacuolization and mononuclear cell infiltration which confirms the  intensity of liver damage due to  chronic alcohol ingestion. Simultaneous EPT supplementation (500mg/kg and 750 mg/kg bw) to alcohol -intoxicated rats, reduced the levels of Total cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipoproteins consequential as analogized with the  unsupplemented alcohol- treated   rats.   Liver of rats  pre-treated with ethanolic  extract   of  Premna  tomentosa (500  mg  and  750  mg)  manifest  reduced   formation  of  interface  hepatitis,  vascular congestion, and fatty degeneration and exhibits more hepatoprotection compared  with the rats pre-treated in Liv 52. The blood parameters   were  amplified by the  histopathological perusal of the  liver. The  lipid  -lowering property  by the  derivatives of cinnamic acid showed anticholesteremic activity. The results confirm the Hepatoprotective and lipid -lowering ability of Premna tomentosa in alcohol-treated rats.
Isolation and Quantification of Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Components from Saturated Fraction of Marrubium vulgare. L Leaves
Authors: Ahmad Dar Shabir , Kumar Parveen , Gupta Prasoon , Madishetti Sreedhar , Sharma Manik , Kumar Amit
Published: October 2021

Marrubium vulgare L. (Lamiaceae), aerial parts has been traditionally used to cure a variety of diseases including diabetes. A good class of secondary metabolites is present in the herb; however, the potential antidiabetic agent consistently stays a secret.. The present study aimed to identify the antidiabetic agents present in M. vulgare leaf extract. The isolation of compounds from the saturated fraction was done by column chromatography and their structures were elucidated using NMR, HRMS and MS spectroscopic methods. . The antidiabetic profiling of Methonoloc Extract (MeOH) extract (500 mg/kg b.w) and its chloroform fraction (250 mg/kg b.w) was investigated in STZ- induced diabetic rats. Four bioactive compounds namely marrubiin (MV-17), marrubinone B (MV-27), ladanein (MV-19) and apigenin 7-O-β-D-(6''- p- coumaroyl) glucoside (MV-25), were isolated from chloroform fraction, oleic acid(MV-20) and Palmitic acid (MV-21) from hexane fraction of M. vulgare leaf. Among these known compounds we first time report oleic and palmitic acid in M. vulgare. Both MeOH extract (500 mg/kg b.w) and its CHCl3 fraction (250 mg/kg b.w) significantly (pË‚0.001) lowered the blood glucose level. Quantitative estimation by HPLC showed the highest concentration of MV-17, MV-20 and MV-27 in the CHCl3 fraction. Moreover this fraction also showed significant antioxidant potential measured by DPPH assay. These results confirmed that the hypoglycemic potential of chloroform fraction (IIIM-2) may be largely due to compounds MV-17, 27 and 20.
Comparative Study on the Effects of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises and Abdominal Muscle Training in Functional Constipation among Children
Authors: Kamatchi.K  , Naveen kumar.S  , Tharani.G  , Yuvarani.G  , Deepa.I  , Meena.S  , Kaviraja.N
Published: October 2021

To    compare    the    effects   of   pelvic   floor   muscle   exercise   and   abdominal   muscle   training,   breathing exercisesandabdominal massage in children with functional constipation. Functional constipation is one the most common gastrointestinal condition in pediatrics practice with an estimation prevalence ranging from 0.7% to 29.6%. It has a multifactorial pathophysiology mainly consisting of stool with holding and delayed colonic transit.30 subjects who met theRome-III criteriafor pediatric  functional  constipationwere  randomly  divided  into  2 groups. Group-A  was trained  with  pelvic floor  muscle  exercise along with squat walking   for 5 min under  supervision of parents.  Exercise duration was increased 5 min per  week, for two consecutive weeks and remained the same for the next six weeks and Kegels was performed  for 10 seconds. Group-B was given isometric training of the abdominal muscle which was carried out in two ways. The patient was either lying down in a left lateral decubitus position with the hip and knee flexed at 90° with two series of eight contractions and relaxations until the third week and was then  increased  to  two  series  of  12 contractions  and relaxations  for 6 weeks. In the  sitting  or  lying down  method, training began with one series of three  contractions and relaxations lasting 10 s which  was increased  to five repetitions in the third week until the sixth week along with abdomen tuck-in exercise. Diaphragmatic breathing and abdominal massage was given to  both  groups in common.   The intervention  of the study was about  8 weeks.Results of  statistical  analysis showed  that  both Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises and Abdominal Muscle Training are  effective in treating functional constipation among children. However  pelvic floor muscle exercise was better  than abdominal muscle training on the basis of Wexner  Construction Scoring System.
Impact of Covid-19 on the Buying Behaviour of Consumers with Respect to Purchase of Medicines Through online and Retail Outlets
Authors: Srikanth Medimpudi  , Lucklin Medimpudi  , Lakshmana Rao Ayyagari
Published: October 2021

The  unprecedented  impact  of  Novel  Coronavirus  Disease  2019  (COVID-19)  on  the  economy  is  transforming consumer behaviour in purchasing various drugs. This study examines the change in consumer  awareness levels and purchasing patterns  concerning  online  pharmacies  and generic drugs in the  wake of  the  recent  pandemic.  It also  explores  the  reasons behind changing attitudes, implications of these new consumer  habits, and measures pharmaceutical retailers can take to evolve stronger. We conducted  a cross-sectional survey of 260 randomly selected consumers attending a retail pharmacy attached to a secondary diabetes care centre in Andhra Pradesh from December 2020 to January 2021. The study involved 150 males and 110 females.  We  collected  each  consumer's  demographic  data,  including  age, gender,  location,  annual  household  income,  and educational  level.  We  used  a  questionnaire  to  assess  consumers'   awareness  levels  and  buying  patterns   regarding  online pharmacies  and generic  drugs, as well  as their  favored  approaches  to  future  shopping.  In our  study, 63.8% of  subjects  knew about  online pharmacies, but 20.5% of them  were  aware only after the  outbreak.  Thirteen percent  of consumers  purchased medicines  online,  while  35.3% of  them did  so in response  to  the  pandemic.  On  the  other  hand, 64.6% of  the subjects know about generic medicines, but 8.3% of them have not heard of them until after the pandemic. Furthermore,  consumers purchased generic medicines in 20.8% of cases, and 11.1% of those who purchased generics did so after the pandemic. In addition, we found that 79.2% opted  for branded medicines in the future, while 56.9% chose local stores.  'COVID-19 lockdown brought a surge in awareness about online pharmacies and generic medicines, as well as a surge in online and generic purchases.   Yet consumer sentiments towards local stores  and branded medicines are positive during the COVID-19 times. The post-COVID-19 sentiment is as well looking optimistic for local stores and branded medicines.
Quantification and Stability Indicating UPLC Method Development and Validation of Acalabrutinib in Bulk and Pharmaceutical Dosage Form
Authors: Goud V Mohan , Singh N Pooja
Published: October 2021

Acalabrutinib (ABN) is a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat mantle cell lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma. It has been used in the treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma and ovarian cancer. It is available in capsule dosage form, usually prescribed twice a day. The objective of the present study describes the ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) method development and validation for the estimation of the ABN in Capsule dosage form by following ICH guidelines because no methods were reported in this category. The column and Mobile phase were selected based on trial and error methods. For the estimation, the chromatogram BEH C18 (50 mm x 2.1 mm, 1.7µm) column was run through with Mobile phase 0.01N KH2PO4 : Methanol in the ratio of 50:50 at a flow rate of 0.3 ml/min. Temperature was maintained at 30°C. Optimized wavelength selected for the separation was 234nm. Retention time was achieved 1.148minute in optimized chromatogram. Theoretical plate count and tailing factor were obtained “as per recommendations of ICH limits”. The % RSD precision obtained was 0.7% and Intermediate precision obtained was 0.7% as the limit of Precision was less than 2. %Recovery obtained for marketed formulation was 99.23%. LOD, LOQ values obtained from the regression equation (y=9128.5x + 14854) of ABN were 0.18µg/ml and 0.55µg/ml respectively. Proposed method was linear over the concentration range25-150µg/ml. Different degradation studies (acid, alkali, oxidation, thermal, UV, water) were performed and all these samples passed the limits of degradation. Retention time and run time was decreased, so the method developed was simple and economical that can be adopted in regular quality control tests in Industries.
Formulation and Optimization of Dolutegravir Fast Dissolving Tablets Using Various Solubility Enhancement Methods
Authors: Srinivas Martha , Singh Anoop
Published: October 2021

Dolutegravir is a HIV-1 antiviral agent to control HIV/AIDS. In the present study Dolutegravir solid dispersion has been subjected to improve the solubility and dissolution rate performance by formulating as fast dissolving tablets, in which PEG 6000 and Poloxamer 407 were used as polymers. Solid dispersions of Dolutegravir were prepared with different carriers in different ratios of drug and carriers such as PEG 6000 and Poloxamer 407 (1:1, 1:2 and 1:3) by solvent evaporation and fusion method. The pre-compression and post-evaluation parameters were studied and the results were shown. All the results were within acceptable IP limits Finally, by comparing all the dissolution profile of solid dispersions , formulation F3 containing Dolutegravir + PEG 6000 (1:3) showed better results by solvent evaporation method at the end of 60 min with maximum drug release, hence it is selected as the best formulation. From the obtained optimized solid dispersion formulation, the fast dissolving tablets were prepared by using different concentrations of various super disintegrants. The in-vitro drug releases of the formulated Dolutegravir tablets were performed using a 6.8 pH Phosphate buffer as dissolution medium. The optimized DF3 formulation containing Sodium starch glycolate (SSG) (6% w/w) as super disintegrant, and it showed 98.04±1.9 % percentage drug release at 25 min. Characterization in solid-state were done by analytical methods such as UV-Visible, FT-IR studies. The optimized formulation followed first order release kinetics.
Narratividade, memória e descolonização no romance O retorno, de Dulce Maria Cardoso
Authors: De Souza Amorim Cláudia Maria , Costa da Silva Suzana
Published: October 2021

O artigo faz uma análise de O retorno, de Dulce Maria Cardoso, ressaltando sua linearidade memorialística; além de discutir a relevância da memória no processo de descolonização e no deslocamento dos chamados retornados a Portugal, sob a ótica do personagem-narrador do romance, o jovem Rui. A memória, diante de toda a fragmentação do indivíduo, proporciona para a literatura também um discurso fragmentado de histórias, antes conhecidas através das vozes dos vencedores, presente no discurso hegemônico. Recuperam-se aqui as histórias de um passado cheio de lacunas, que na contemporaneidade são munidas de trauma e verdade. A construção da narrativa O retorno, de Dulce Maria Cardoso, alicerça-se sobre a base da memória, desde aquela que pertence unicamente à autora, retirada de seu convívio em Angola aos treze anos de idade, até a visão de Rui, igualmente retornado a uma pátria desconhecida. O romance é contado sob a base mnemônica, e revela a capacidade de os sujeitos viverem os acontecimentos e contá-los ao mesmo tempo ou décadas depois, introduzindo no romance contemporâneo português as particularidades de uma pós-memória.
A mancha enquanto contraste: Portugal versus suas ex-colônias em África nas narrativas de Isabela Figueiredo e Dulce Maria Cardoso
Authors: Fonseca e Silva Larissa , Da Conceição Tolentino Eliana
Published: October 2021

Neste artigo, pretende-se apontar como, no livro Caderno de memórias coloniais, de Isabela Figueiredo, e em O Retorno, de Dulce Maria Cardoso, a representação da mancha (das roupas e das mãos) aparece simbolizando ora liberdade, ora culpa − sempre endossando, porém, um contraste entre a sociedade portuguesa e a vida que as autoras tinham em Moçambique e Angola, respectivamente.
Pseudotumor Associated with Dall-Miles Cable Breakage Following Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Case Report
Authors: Oh Se Won , Jee Seung Yun , Park Seong Oh
Published: October 2021

A pseudotumor is a benign granulomatous or cystic lesion associated with the deposition of metal debris in joint arthroplasties. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on a pseudotumor caused by the breakage of the Dall-Miles cable grip system, a multifilament cable used to fix the trochanteric osteotomy in revision total hip arthroplasty. This rare case demonstrates that pseudotumor formation can be caused by various types of orthopedic materials and implant components. When encountering a palpable mass around an orthopedic implant, a pseudotumor should be considered along other differential diagnoses. To treat pseudotumors and also prevent recurrence, its complete resection and sufficient removal of orthopedic materials are necessary.
Reconstructive Outcomes of Extensive Soft-Tissue Defects after Palliative Mastectomy for Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Yoon Taekeun , Woo Soo Jin , Jin Ung Sik
Published: October 2021

Background: In advanced breast cancer, reconstruction can be performed depending on the patient’s situation, and can improve the subsequent treatment and quality of life. We examined the effect of reconstruction after palliative mastectomy on survival and quality of life.Methods: Between April 2010 and April 2021, 40 patients underwent reconstruction after palliative mastectomy for stage-IV breast cancer. To evaluate postoperative satisfaction, changes in the global health and quality-of-life scores after reconstruction were evaluated using questionnaires by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer. The survival rate according to reconstructive surgery was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.Results: Reconstruction methods included free transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap (n=3), pedicled latissimus dorsi (LD) flap (n=3), pedicled TRAM flap (n=2), pedicled LD with pedicled vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap (n=1), tissue expander insertion (n=3), and split-thickness skin graft (n=28). There were no major complications or decreased life expectancy due to reconstruction. All patients healed well and started conventional chemoradiotherapy at 31.3 days postoperatively. The quality-of-life scores increased from 37 to 83 after reconstruction. There was no difference in the survival rates between those who underwent reconstruction with split-thickness skin graft and flap operation (P>0.05). The mean survival time postoperatively was 43.9 months.Conclusion: Compared to primary closure, reconstruction of extensive soft-tissue defects after palliative mastectomy did not affect life expectancy or delay postoperative chemoradiotherapy; it led to an improved quality of life. Therefore, the extensive defects expected after palliative mastectomy should not influence indications for reconstruction surgery.
Universidade Aberta do Brasil (UAB): uma oportunidade possível no Município de Itapetinga-BA
Authors: Santos Winner , Santos Yure Oliveira , Sousa Edmacy Quirina de
Published: October 2021

Este trabalho tem como finalidade discutir a relevância da Universidade Aberta do Brasil (UAB) como política pública de acesso ao ensino superior no Município de Itapetinga-BA. Política essa que visa uma maior ampliação e democratização do ensino superior por meio do uso das novas Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (TICs). No que consiste à metodologia do trabalho, foi utilizada a abordagem qualitativa, com levantamento bibliográfico e documental a fim de compreender de forma direta e indireta os dados necessários à discussão da temática. No primeiro momento, apresentamos uma análise teórica a respeito do Ead. Na sequência, apresentamos os dados extraídos dos documentos e suas análises. Ao final, sistematizamos alguns resultados e considerações finais sobre a relevância do Ensino à distância como oportunidade de ampliação e democratização do ensino superior por meio do uso das novas Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (TICs). O polo enfrenta alguns desafios concernentes à evasão de alunos que devido às restrições financeiras não conseguem participar dos encontros presenciais e ainda têm dificuldade de acessar as aulas à distância pela falta de recurso tecnológico. Outros desafios são ainda apontados ao longo da entrevista como a necessidade de maiores investimentos para o, visto que o setor público, por meio dos programas e políticas educacionais, representa um papel significativo para o avanço da Educação a Distância no Brasil. O Sistema UAB em Itapetinga é de fato uma grande oportunidade para o desenvolvimento dos sujeitos, das universidades, do território e da sociedade em geral.
Fighting Work-Life Conflict: Strategies of Women Entrepreneurs of Fashion Industry of Pakistan
Authors: Mukhtar Aamna , Faiz Rafia
Published: October 2021

In pursuit of improved flexibility and control over performance of dual roles in work and personal lives, an increasing number of women are shifting from paid employment to entrepreneurship. Yet, women entrepreneurs continue to experience dynamics of work-life conflict, particularly when gender interplays with culture, religion and class in unconventional, patriarchal Muslim societies. The purpose of this paper is to address the strategies adopted by Pakistani women entrepreneurs to combat work-life conflict. Border theory and role theory form the theoretical framework. This qualitative study draws upon interpretive phenomenological approach (IPA) to examine lived experiences of coping with work-life conflict. In-depth interviews with 35 women entrepreneurs of fashion industry were conducted in mixed Urdu and English languages, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. Our study finds that women entrepreneurs experience varying degrees of work-life imbalance, and adopt active strategies to resist it. Due to poor institutional support, they largely tend to sacrifice their self-comfort for the sake of their family and business obligations. Strategic planning, authority delegating and seeking support from social capital are their most effective growth oriented strategies. Moreover, some women also practice growth constraining strategies in their subjective structures, thus contributing to reproduction of inequalities. This study contributes to expansion of border theory by highlighting the dynamics of work-life management when family and work are overlapping spheres for entrepreneurs. It adds to the growing body of literature on resistance and agency of marginalized women in emerging economies.