bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Economic Impact of the PedAMINES App in Reducing Medication Errors in Pediatric Emergency Care: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Brunner Loïc , Siebert Johan N , Ehrler Frédéric , Manzano Sergio , Marti Joachim
Published: August 2024

Background

The administration of drugs in pediatric emergency care is a time-consuming process and is associated with a higher occurrence of medication errors compared with adult care. This is attributed to the intricacies of administration, which involve calculating doses based on the child’s weight or age. To mitigate the occurrence of adverse drug events (ADEs), the PedAMINES (Pediatric Accurate Medication in Emergency Situations; Geneva University Hospitals) mobile app has been developed. This app offers a step-by-step guide for preparing and administering pediatric drugs during emergency interventions by automating the dose calculation process. Although previous simulation-based randomized controlled trials conducted in emergency care have demonstrated the efficacy of the PedAMINES app in reducing drug administration errors, there is a lack of evidence regarding its economic implications.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of implementing the PedAMINES app for 4 emergency drugs: epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and midazolam.

Methods

The economic evaluation was conducted by combining hospital data from 2019, previous trial outcomes, information extracted from existing literature, and PedAMINES maintenance costs. The cost per avoided medication error was calculated, along with the number of administrations needed to achieve a positive return on investment. Subsequently, Monte Carlo simulations were used to identify the key parameters contributing to result uncertainty.

Results

The study revealed the number of preventable errors per administration for the 4 examined drugs: 0.513 for epinephrine, 0.484 for norepinephrine, 0.500 for dopamine, and 0.671 for midazolam. The cost-effectiveness ratios per ADE prevented were computed as follows: US $4808 for epinephrine, US $9705 for norepinephrine, US $6957 for dopamine, and US $2074 for midazolam. Accounting for the economic impact of ADEs, the analysis estimated that 16 administrations of epinephrine, 17 of norepinephrine and dopamine, and 13 of midazolam would be required to attain a positive return on investment. This corresponds to roughly one-third of the annual administrations at a major university hospital in Switzerland. The primary factors influencing the uncertainty in the estimated cost per ADE include the cost of maintenance of the app, the likelihood of an ADE resulting from an administration error, and the frequency of underdosing in the trial’s control group.

Conclusions

A dedicated mobile app presents an economically viable solution to alleviate the health and economic burden of drug administration errors in in-hospital pediatric emergency care. The widespread adoption of this app is advocated to pool costs and extend the benefits on a national scale in Switzerland.
Perceptions Toward Using Artificial Intelligence and Technology for Asthma Attack Risk Prediction: Qualitative Exploration of Māori Views
Authors: Jayamini Widana Kankanamge Darsha , Mirza Farhaan , Bidois-Putt Marie-Claire , Naeem M Asif , Chan Amy Hai Yan
Published: August 2024

Background

Asthma is a significant global health issue, impacting over 500,000 individuals in New Zealand and disproportionately affecting Māori communities in New Zealand, who experience worse asthma symptoms and attacks. Digital technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models, are increasingly popular for asthma risk prediction. However, these AI models may underrepresent minority ethnic groups and introduce bias, potentially exacerbating disparities.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the views and perceptions that Māori have toward using AI and ML technologies for asthma self-management, identify key considerations for developing asthma attack risk prediction models, and ensure Māori are represented in ML models without worsening existing health inequities.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 Māori participants with asthma, 3 male and 17 female, aged 18-76 years. All the interviews were conducted one-on-one, except for 1 interview, which was conducted with 2 participants. Altogether, 10 web-based interviews were conducted, while the rest were kanohi ki te kanohi (face-to-face). A thematic analysis was conducted to identify the themes. Further, sentiment analysis was carried out to identify the sentiments using a pretrained Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers model.

Results

We identified four key themes: (1) concerns about AI use, (2) interest in using technology to support asthma, (3) desired characteristics of AI-based systems, and (4) experience with asthma management and opportunities for technology to improve care. AI was relatively unfamiliar to many participants, and some of them expressed concerns about whether AI technology could be trusted, kanohi ki te kanohi interaction, and inadequate knowledge of AI and technology. These concerns are exacerbated by the Māori experience of colonization. Most of the participants were interested in using technology to support their asthma management, and we gained insights into user preferences regarding computer-based health care applications. Participants discussed their experiences, highlighting problems with health care quality and limited access to resources. They also mentioned the factors that trigger their asthma control level.

Conclusions

The exploration revealed that there is a need for greater information about AI and technology for Māori communities and a need to address trust issues relating to the use of technology. Expectations in relation to computer-based applications for health purposes were expressed. The research outcomes will inform future investigations on AI and technology to enhance the health of people with asthma, in particular those designed for Indigenous populations in New Zealand.
Association of Cellulitis With Obesity: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Taira Kimi Gabriella , Wang Madelyn , Guo William , Kam Olivia , Kaufmann Tara
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that tends to recur. Previous studies have identified several risk factors that may contribute to its pathogenesis. Obesity is an increasingly prevalent worldwide disease that has been associated with skin and soft tissue infections.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the association of cellulitis with obesity.

METHODS

The Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science databases were searched for the relevant studies from the inception of each respective database to March 13, 2021. Case-control, cross-sectional, or cohort studies that examined the odds or risk of increased BMI in patients with cellulitis were included. This study was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) was used to evaluate the risk of bias in included studies.

RESULTS

In total, 9 case-control studies were included in our quantitative meta-analysis with a total of 68,148 study participants. A significant association was found between cellulitis and obesity (pooled odds ratio [OR] 2.67, 95% CI 1.91-3.71). No significant association was observed between cellulitis and being overweight (pooled OR 1.69, 95% CI 0.99-2.88). Patients with cellulitis were also found to have 1.63-fold increased odds of being male (pooled OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.12-2.38).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that cellulitis is significantly associated with obesity. Maintaining a healthy BMI may be indicated for patients presenting with cellulitis.

CLINICALTRIAL
Co-Designing a Smoking Cessation Chatbot: Focus Group Study of End Users and Smoking Cessation Professionals (Preprint)
Authors: Bendotti Hollie , Lawler Sheleigh , Ireland David , Gartner Coral , Marshall Henry M
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Our prototype smoking cessation chatbot, Quin, provides evidence-based, personalized support delivered via a smartphone app to help people quit smoking. We developed Quin using a multiphase program of co-design research, part of which included focus group evaluation of Quin among stakeholders prior to clinical testing.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to gather and compare feedback on the user experience of the Quin prototype from end users and smoking cessation professionals (SCPs) via a beta testing process to inform ongoing chatbot iterations and refinements.

METHODS

Following active and passive recruitment, we conducted web-based focus groups with SCPs and end users from Queensland, Australia. Participants tested the app for 1-2 weeks prior to focus group discussion and could also log conversation feedback within the app. Focus groups of SCPs were completed first to review the breadth and accuracy of information, and feedback was prioritized and implemented as major updates using Agile processes prior to end user focus groups. We categorized logged in-app feedback using content analysis and thematically analyzed focus group transcripts.

RESULTS

In total, 6 focus groups were completed between August 2022 and June 2023; 3 for SCPs (n=9 participants) and 3 for end users (n=7 participants). Four SCPs had previously smoked, and most end users currently smoked cigarettes (n=5), and 2 had quit smoking. The mean duration of focus groups was 58 (SD 10.9; range 46-74) minutes. We identified four major themes from focus group feedback: (1) conversation design, (2) functionality, (3) relationality and anthropomorphism, and (4) role as a smoking cessation support tool. In response to SCPs’ feedback, we made two major updates to Quin between cohorts: (1) improvements to conversation flow and (2) addition of the “Moments of Crisis” conversation tree. Participant feedback also informed 17 recommendations for future smoking cessation chatbot developments.

CONCLUSIONS

Feedback from end users and SCPs highlighted the importance of chatbot functionality, as this underpinned Quin’s conversation design and relationality. The ready accessibility of accurate cessation information and impartial support that Quin provided was recognized as a key benefit for end users, the latter of which contributed to a feeling of accountability to the chatbot. Findings will inform the ongoing development of a mature prototype for clinical testing.

CLINICALTRIAL
Examining the Light Heart Mobile Device App for Assessing Human Pulse Interval and Heart Rate Variability: Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Klassen Stephen A , Jabbar Jesica , Osborne Jenna , Iannarelli Nathaniel J , Kirby Emerson S , O'Leary Deborah D , Locke Sean
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Pulse interval is a biomarker of psychological and physiological health. Pulse interval can now be assessed using mobile phone apps, which expands researchers’ ability to assess pulse interval in the real world. Prior to implementation, measurement accuracy should be established.

OBJECTIVE

This investigation evaluated the validity of the Light Heart mobile app to measure pulse interval and pulse rate variability in healthy young adults.

METHODS

Validity was assessed by comparing the pulse interval and SD of normal pulse intervals obtained by Light Heart to the gold standard, electrocardiogram (ECG), in 14 young healthy individuals (mean age 24, SD 5 years; n=9, 64% female) in a seated posture.

RESULTS

Mean pulse interval (Light Heart: 859, SD 113 ms; ECG: 857, SD 112 ms) demonstrated a strong positive linear correlation (r=0.99; P<.001) and strong agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient=1.00, 95% CI 0.99-1.00) between techniques. The Bland-Altman plot demonstrated good agreement for the mean pulse interval measured with Light Heart and ECG with evidence of fixed bias (–1.56, SD 1.86; 95% CI –5.2 to 2.1 ms), suggesting that Light Heart overestimates pulse interval by a small margin. When Bland-Altman plots were constructed for each participant’s beat-by-beat pulse interval data, all participants demonstrated strong agreement between Light Heart and ECG with no evidence of fixed bias between measures. Heart rate variability, assessed by SD of normal pulse intervals, demonstrated strong agreement between techniques (Light Heart: mean 73, SD 23 ms; ECG: mean 73, SD 22 ms; r=0.99; P<.001; intraclass correlation coefficient=0.99, 95% CI 0.97-1.00).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence to suggest that the Light Heart mobile app provides valid measures of pulse interval and heart rate variability in healthy young adults.
Classifying Unstructured Text in Electronic Health Records for Mental Health Prediction Models using a Large Language Model (Preprint)
Authors: Cardamone Nicholas , Olfson Mark , Schmutte Timothy , Ungar Lyle H. , Liu Tony , Cullen Sara W. , Williams Nathaniel J. , Marcus Steven C.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Prediction models have demonstrated a range of applications across medicine, including using electronic health record (EHR) data to identify hospital readmission and mortality risk. Large language models (LLMs) can transform unstructured EHR text into structured features, which can then be integrated into statistical prediction models, ensuring that the results are both clinically meaningful and interpretable.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to compare the classification decisions made by clinical experts with those generated by a state-of-the-art large language model (LLM), using terms extracted from a large EHR dataset of individuals with mental health disorders seen in emergency departments.

METHODS

Using a dataset from the EHR systems of more than 50 healthcare provider organizations in the United States from 2016-2021, we extracted all clinical terms that appeared in at least 1,000 records of individuals admitted to the emergency department for a mental health-related problem from a source population of over six million emergency department episodes. Two experienced mental health clinicians (one medically-trained psychiatrist and one clinical psychologist) reached consensus on the classification of EHR terms and diagnostic codes into categories. We evaluated an LLM’s agreement with clinical judgement across three classification tasks: (1) classify terms into “mental health” or “physical health” (2) classify mental health terms into one of 42 pre-specified categories, and (3) classify physical health terms into one of 19 pre-specified broad categories.

RESULTS

There was high agreement between the LLM and clinical experts when categorizing 4,553 terms as “mental health” or “physical health” (κ = 0.77). There was considerable variability in LLM-clinician agreement on classification of physical health terms (average κ = .66, range .34-.86) and mental health terms (average κ = .61, κ range 0 – 1).

CONCLUSIONS

The LLM displayed high agreement with clinical experts when classifying EHR terms into certain mental health or physical health categories. However, agreement with clinical experts varied considerably within both mental health and physical health category sets. Importantly, the use of LLMs presents an alternative to manual human coding, presenting great potential to create interpretable features for prediction models.
“Hacer ciudad”. Los desarrolladores inmobiliarios en los procesos de renovación urbana
Authors: Gonzalez Redondo Carolina
Published: August 2024

Esta investigación indaga sobre la participación de los desarrolladores inmobiliarios en los procesos de renovación urbana, para ello aborda el caso de la creación del Barrio Parque Donado Holmberg, impulsado por el gobierno local en Villa Urquiza, Buenos Aires, que implicó la expulsión de habitantes vulnerables y la generación de una zona de oportunidad para los actores inmobiliarios. Mediante un abordaje cualitativo se analizan las estrategias de los desarrolladores inmobiliarios; se estudian sus formas de ingreso al proyecto, sus modalidades de gestión del suelo, sus estrategias de diseño y comercialización, así como su articulación con el gobierno local.
El turismo como consumidor de agua: el caso de los hoteles de Tijuana (México)
Authors: Bautista-Mayorga Fidel , García-Salazar José Alberto , Mora Flores José Saturnino , Almeraya Quintero Silvia Xochilt , Borja Bravo Mercedes
Published: August 2024

El artículo estima el consumo promedio anual de agua en los hoteles de Tijuana, de 1992 a 2021, y analiza, desde la teoría económica, algunos factores determinantes de dicho consumo, considerando el mismo periodo. Se utilizó una fórmula para estimar el consumo y se propuso una regresión lineal múltiple para analizar los factores determinantes. Los resultados indican un consumo promedio, máximo y mínimo de agua anual de 356,755 m3, 459,838 m3 y 193,741 m3, respectivamente. Por otro lado, el factor que más influye sobre consumo de agua es el ingreso: si éste crece 10%, el consumo aumenta 3.4 por ciento.
Enhancing Quality of Life in Venous Ulcer Patient with Irsal-e-Alaq (Hirudotherapy): A Case Report
Authors: Siddiqui Saif Ali , Mohammad Sayyed Adnan , Shoaib Mohammad , Sultana Asia
Published: August 2024

Background: In general practice, venous ulcers (stasis ulcers) are the most common and recurrent leg ulcers. Ignorance of it can have a severe detrimental effect on one's quality of life, cause gangrene, and even the limb amputation. Venous ulcers are the most dangerous and disabling side effect of chronic venous insufficiency. Leech therapy seems to be effective for the treatment of varicose ulcers due to its salivary secretions which it injects during bloodsucking. The saliva of leeches contains certain biochemical with vaso-dilating, anticoagulant, anesthetic, thrombolytic, antibiotic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, Irsal-e-Alaq (Hirudotherapy), one of the Unani regimens, can effectively control it. Objective: The purpose of this case report is to provide insight into the effects of Irsal-e-Alaq (Hirudotherapy) on venous ulcers. Intervention: A 60-year-old male has a complaint of ulceration in his left lower leg near the medial malleolus with swelling, pain, discharge, and darkening of the skin of the left lower limb. Four leeches were applied once every week for 2 months. Efficacy of leech therapy was assessed on every 15th day by pain /leg discomfort on 4 point scale ranging from 0-3, limb girth at calf, ankle & foot, pigmentation color on 4 point scale, pigmentation area, pain in ulcer on 4 point scale from 0-3, ulcer depth, PUSH Score. Hb% was assessed every 15th day to check anemia, colour flow Doppler was done to assess any change in vein anatomy. Result: In this case report, the ulcers were completely healed, and also showed remarkable improvement in other variables. Conclusion: Irsal-e-Alaq has been proven beneficial in treating venous ulcers and enhancing patient’s quality of life.
Keywords: Venous ulcer, Hirudotherapy, Unani Medicine, Pain, Pigmentation.
Phenotypic characterization and antibiotic resistance of enterobacteria strains isolated from samples of patients in the towns of Moundou and Sarh in Chad
Authors: Gamougam Kadidja , Djibrine Mayoré Atéba , Hissein Abdoulahhi Ousman , Tidjani Abdelsalam
Published: August 2024

Today, enterobacteria constitute one of the most predominant causes of nosocomial and acquired infections in our communities. The bactericidal action of antibiotics on bacteria is used therapeutically, unfortunately the latter have started to develop resistances. Antibiotic resistance remains a major global public health issue, a serious problem in some of the world's poorest countries such as Chad.
The objective of this study is to identify the strains of enterobacteria coming from samples of patients admitted to the Moundou and Sarh health centers, and to report their resistance profiles. A total of 278 samples consisting of urine (133) and stools (145) were collected in the laboratories of the two provincial hospitals of Sarh and Moundou between September and December 2021. The samples were processed and analyzed according to standard microbiology methods. The study of the sensitivity of different strains of enterobacteria with 14 antibiotic disks was evaluated by the disk diffusion method in agar medium.
A total of 278 samples (urine, stool) including 111 strains of Enterobacteria, including 55 strains of E. coli, Enterobacter spp (n=17), klebsiella (n=11), Salmonella (n=9), Serratia ( n=7), Citrobacter (n=6) and Shigella (n=2) were isolated in the laboratory in the towns of Moundou and Sarh in Chad. The antibiogram carried out on all isolated strains of enterobacteria expressed a resistance ranging between 33.3% and 83.3% to 3rd generation cephalosporins, 30.3% and 50.0% to aminoglycosides. On the other hand, a strain of Salmonella is resistant to imipenem in Sarh.
This study shows a high level of resistance acquired to different families of antibiotics by our bacterial strains studied. This resistance highlights the need to adapt therapeutic regimens to local epidemiology.
Keywords : Characterization, Phenotype, Antibiotic resistance, Enterobacteria, Cities, Chad
Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Suspension by Using Factorial Design
Authors: Rukadikar Ijajahamad Salim , Dixit Amol A. , Raykar Dnyaneshwari Tanaji , Sakpal Rutuja Ramesh , Repal Prasad Sunil
Published: August 2024

Herbal remedies serve a vital role in developing therapeutic agents due to their proven effectiveness in treating various ailments. However, identifying active compounds from plant sources presents significant challenges in herbal medicine research. Authenticating these compounds and studying interactions between different herbs, in addition to between herbs and drugs, especially in polypharmacy, are crucial steps. This leads to the re-evaluation and enhancement of agents for improved efficacy and reduced side effects, promoting the development of safer drugs for different disorders. This study employed a 2² factorial design to optimize a polyherbal suspension formulation using Bael (Aegle marmelos) and Bay (Cinnamomum tamala) leaves. This design enabled the exploration of interactions between two key factors: the concentrations of sodium CMC and Tween 20. The study assessed phytochemical properties, sedimentation volume, redispersibility, rheology, viscosity, pH, and crystal growth. Based on optimisation results batch 2 was considered to be optimised batch, demonstrating excellent stability, redispersibility, appropriate viscosity, and stable physicochemical properties. This study underscores the importance of using suitable excipients to enhance the stability of herbal formulations, offering a model for future herbal product development.
Key words: Polyherbal, Suspension, Factorial Design, Optimization
Biochemical and histological alterations induced by UV-328 in the gill tissue of Zebra fish (Danio rerio) and its reversal by Dimethoxy curcumin
Authors: Senthilmurugan S. , Miltonprabu S.
Published: August 2024

The presence of Benzotriazole UV Stabilizer-328 (UV-328) in different biological and natural systems is of fast, regular concern in recent days due to their exuberant use in sunscreens. To learn more about its role of oxidative damage in the gills and to uncover the protective nature of DiMC, we evaluated its sub-lethal toxicity in Zebra fish gill tissue and also evaluated the potential defensive role of Dimethoxy curcumin (DiMC). Grown-up Zebra fish were exposed to 55 µg/L of UV-328 and 50mg/kg of DiMC for four weeks. After the completion of 28 days, gill tissues were dissected out and assessed for their response to oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes status, and histopathological changes. Our results demonstrated that antioxidant such as glutathione (GSH) levels and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR) and Glutathione S-transferase (GST) were all diminished in the gill tissue along with the profound increase in lipid peroxidation (measured as TBARS) in the UV-328-treated group. Histopathological lesions, for instance, inflammatory cell infiltration with a minimal congestion in primary lamellae, diffuse epithelial hyperplasia and fusion of secondary lamellae, multifocal mucus cell hyperplasia were seen in the UV-328-treated gill tissue of Zebra fish. The UV-328-induced oxidative, biochemical, and histological alterations were almost reverted back to normal in the DiMC enhanced group, suggesting its remediative efficacy against UV-328-induced respirotoxicity. Based on our findings, exposure to UV-328, even at a low level, could be toxic, causing oxidative stress, antioxidant depletion, and pathological gill damage in Zebra fish. And these alterations were almost recuperated in DiMC supplemented group which signifies its protective influence against UV-328 toxicity.
Keywords: UV-328; Oxidative stress; Antioxidants; Histopathology; Zebra fish
Study of xymedone release from hydrogels with zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Sheferov Ilya Alexandrovich , Emasheva Anastasia Anatol`evna , Sheferova Alyona Anatol`evna , Panteleev Dmitry Alexandrovich , Mitin Alexandr Vyacheslavovich , Kuz`michev Vsevolod Vladimirovich , Melnikova Nina Borisovna
Published: August 2024

In this work the approaches to assess of the xymedone release from hydrophilic gels with zinc oxide nanoparticles were proposed using a vertical Franz diffusion cell at 37 ℃. A partial validation protocol included the varying of the membrane polarity (lipophilic or hydrophilic cellulose acetate), the acceptor chamber volume (4,35 mL or 12,71 mL), the gel composition (with or without zinc oxide nanoparticles), as well as the metrological characteristics for the xymedone assay when it was released through the membrane in a Franz cell. It was estimated that the Franz cell with the volume of 12,71 mL, and the lipophilic membrane made it possible to estimate the amount of xymedone released with less error (RSD no more than 2%). We showed that the xymedone immobilization into zinc oxide nanoparticles increased the efficiency of xymedone release from the hydrophilic gel by 30%. The xymedone release through the both hydrophilic and lipophilic membranes is described by a pseudo-second-order equation that typical for desorption process from the polymer matrix. The proposed partial validation protocol to assessing the drug release using the Franz cell can be useful for selection of optimal composition of dermal topical dosage forms with hydrophilic pharmaceutical active substances.
Keywords: hydrogels, release, xymedone, zinc oxide nanoparticles, partial validation protocol
A Comprehensive Guide to Hydrogel-Based Controlled Drug Delivery for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Pavan Kumar J , Prasada Rao Chennu MM , Singh Ranjan Kumar , Garg Ajay , Rajeswari Tanniru
Published: August 2024

Common kinds of chemotherapy may cause harm to normal cells and tissues. Localised chemotherapy, unlike systemic chemotherapy, can lessen side effects by providing a consistent supply of chemotherapeutic chemicals directly to the tumour location. This emphasises the importance of controlled-release biodegradable hydrogels as chemotherapeutic drug delivery systems. This study looks at employing hydrogels as drug delivery methods for HCC, including thermosensitive, pH-sensitive, photosensitive, dual-sensitive, and glutathione-responsive hydrogels. Hydrogel-based drug delivery systems outperform traditional systemic chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as the new paradigm for cancer treatment. The development and discovery of new therapeutic molecules has increased the use of immunotherapy in clinical studies. This article discusses the current state of functional hydrogels for effective cancer immunotherapy. First, we will discuss the fundamental principles of cancer immunotherapy and the benefits of employing hydrogels to implement these mechanisms. Finally, we briefly explore the existing issues and potential applications of hydrogels for effective cancer immunotherapy.
Keywords: Cancer, Hydrogel-based controlled drug delivery system, postoperative radiotherapy, chemotherapy, Immunotherapy.
Enhancement of Solubility and Dissolution Rate of Simvastatin Tablets by Liquisolid Compact Approach
Authors: Dindigala Anil Kumar , Reddy Chappidi Suryaprakash , Makineni Anantha
Published: August 2024

The aim of the current work was to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drug, simvastatin (SM) by using the liquisolid compact technique (LS; SM-LS). Liquid load factors, and excipient ratios were used to calculate the required amounts of excipients necessary to prepare the SM-LS and compressed to tablets according to mathematical models. Avicel PH102, Aerosil 200 and Crosspovidone (CP) was used as carrier, coating material and disintegrant, respectively. Drug-excipient mixtures were evaluated compatibility by Attenuated total reflectance (ATR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Prepared SM-LS formulations were evaluated for various pre-compression and post-compressional parameters, in-vitro dissolution, and stability studies (40 ± 2°C / 75 ± 5% RH) for 3 months. Among the different formulations, LS10 formulation which contains 30% drug, 5% CP, Avicel pH 102: Aerosil 200 (1:10) showed 14-folds increase in dissolution rate when compared with pure SM powder. FTIR-ATR and DSC studies confirmed that there was no interaction between the drug and excipients. Further, the LS10 formulation had shown comparable dissolution profile with commercially available tablet formulation. The LS10 formulation showed no significant changes in the physicochemical properties over 3 months during stability studies. Therefore, the SM loaded LS formulation could be considered as an alternative approach to enhance the solubility and dissolution for commercial formulations.
Keywords: Liquisolids compacts, solubility, dissolution, carrier, coating material, stability.
Formulation and Evaluation of Bilayered Floating Tablets of Aceclofenac
Authors: Shalini Chenna M , Anila S. , Rama Rao Tadikonda
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study was to create and assess homogeneous bilayered floating tablets of aceclofenac in order to increase the drug's bioavailability and prolong its stomach release. One of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) common side effects is poor solubility and minimal stomach retention, which makes it difficult to treat effectively. As matrix-forming polymers, ten formulations (F1–F10) were made with different amounts of HPMC K15 and additional excipients. Physical properties, buoyancy, in vitro drug release, and kinetic modelling were evaluated for each formulation. With a floating lag time of less than one minute and buoyancy maintained for more than 12 hours, Formulation 5 (F5) showed the most promising findings. With 97.01% of aceclofenac released over 12 hours, it showed a regulated drug release pattern that followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas release model well (R2 = 0.9242). Pre-compression and post-compression values for the optimised formulation F5 were adequate, suggesting good flow characteristics and tablet integrity. FTIR spectroscopy was used to verify the drug-excipient compatibility, guaranteeing stability and the lack of interactions. According to these results, aceclofenac's homogenous bilayered floating tablets, specifically formulation F5, may be able to improve gastric retention time and offer a sustained release profile. This could mean that the medication can be used to treat chronic inflammatory conditions more effectively and with better patient compliance.
Keywords: gastric retention, bioavailability, drug excipient compatibility.
Qualitative Analysis of Bioactive Compounds from different Polypores from Kolhapur District
Authors: Patil Anjali Rajendra , Vedpathak Mrunalini Ajitkumar , Patil Yogesh Sadashiv
Published: August 2024

It is now widely recognized that biological activity occurs throughout the fungal kingdom. Since ancient times so called mushrooms belonging to Basidiomycota have been used for medicinal purpose. Various bioactive compounds show important biological activities such as antioxidative, free radical scavenging, anticarcinogenic, immunomodulatory, antiviral, and antibacterial etc. In earlier times, mushrooms were originally regarded as a significant source of medicinal in oriental regions. Discovering new major medicines is becoming a great challenge for scientific community. The present study deals with qualitative analysis and identifies the different classes of bioactive compounds as well as their potential therapeutic properties in three different polypores viz. Earliella scabrosa, Podoscypha petalodes and Polyporus grammocephalous. This information can provide insight about the bioactivity and metabolite production from these Polypore fungi, which can potentially lead to the development of new drugs.
Keywords: Bioactive compounds, Polypores fungi, Therapeutic properties
Preparation and evaluation of liposomal gel containing Neolamarckia cadamba leaves extract for anti-inflammatory activity
Authors: Ansari Shamsh Ahsan , Bagre Archana , Jain Surendra
Published: August 2024

The objective of present research work is to develop liposomes as a carrier system for methanolic extract, its incorporation in to gel formulations and to characterize the prepared and develop liposomal gel formulation. Formulation was carried out by thin film technique. Scanning electron micrograph of the prepared nanosponges at 50.00 kx magnification showed that the liposome was porous with a smooth surface morphology and spherical shape. The porous nature of liposome was clearly observed in the SEM images. Particle size and zeta potential was determined by Malvern Zeta sizer. The particle size analysis confirmed that the prepared sample were in the nanometer range. Average particle size obtained for the formulations F1 to F5 were 162.7 nm to 195.6 nm. Zeta potential values of liposome indicated that the formulated liposomes are stable. The amount of drug being entrapped in liposome was calculated and all the prepared liposome was found to possess very high entrapment efficiency. The viscosity of liposome loaded gel is found to 6842±0.32cps. The pH of liposome loaded gel is 6.3 and spreadability is 12.11, indicating that liposome loaded gel has high release and permeability. The in vitro anti-inflammatory effect of Neolamarckia cadamba extract was evaluated against denaturation of egg albumin. The present findings exhibited a concentration dependent inhibition of protein (albumin) denaturation by Neolamarckia cadamba throughout the concentration range of 20-100μg/ml. Diclofenac sodium (at the concentration range of 20-100 μg/ml) was used as reference drug which also exhibited concentration dependent inhibition of protein denaturation; however, the effect of diclofenac sodium was found to be less active when compared with extract name. Moreover, the results demonstrated that the liposome-based drug delivery approach could be a valuable tool to improve the therapeutic efficacy of phytochemicals by improving their absorption, and bioavailability via altering their physicochemical and release properties.
Keywords: Liposomes, Neolamarckia cadamba, Qualitative phytochemical screening, Thin film technique, In vitro anti-inflammatory activity.
Preparation and Characterization of Prednisolone Containing Nanoparticles for Treatment of Colon Disorder
Authors: Vijapure Vitthal K , Sunabee Dr , Jat Rakesh Kumar
Published: August 2024

The point of flow research work is planning and portrayal of prednisolone containing nanoparticles by spray drying process using regular, semi engineered and manufactured polymers for treatment of colon problem. The pre-arranged Nanoparticles were assessed for Surface morphology, Medication entanglement effectiveness, differential filtering colorimetry, molecule size, Fourier change infrared spectroscopy, in-vitro drug release and X-beam diffraction studies. The pre-arranged Nanoparticles are smooth in surface and showing circular shape. The normal molecule sizes of the nanoparticles were tracked down in the scope of 523 nm to 901 nm. The medication exemplification effectiveness (EE) of the steroid containing nanoparticles were tracked down in the scope of 82.21%to 89.30%. Here the medication encapsulation efficiency of arranged nanoparticles were expanded with expansion in the fixation of the polymer. The X-beam diffractogram of drug has shown trademark serious top between the 2ө of 19.67 and 30 because of its translucent nature. Where as in the event of medication free Nanoparticles, no extreme pinnacles connected with drug. In drug stacked Nanoparticles peaks were saw between 2ө of 29.67 and 49. The in-vitro drug discharge information of the multitude of definitions were viewed as zero request and shown supported discharge over a time of 24hour.The FTIR Spectra of Nanoparticles detailing are contrasted and the spectra of unadulterated medication, there is no much deviation in the spectra's and not noticed any medication and polymer communications. The brief time frame dependability investigation of streamlined plan has done and exposed to sedate epitome effectiveness and In-vitro drug release studies, where results shown that there is no huge change in the detailing.
Keywords: Polymer, Steroids, FTIR, X-Ray, Prednisolone.
O resgate de histórias e memórias no estudo de alguns topônimos do município de Barra do Garças – MT (The rescue of stories and memories in the study of some toponyms in the municipality of Barra do Garças – MT)
Authors: Lôbo Célia Márcia Gonçalves Nunes , Ribeiro Hidelberto de Sousa
Published: August 2024

Este artigo objetiva investigar os principais topônimos do município de Barra do Garças – MT, relacionando à origem desses topônimos os aspectos históricos, linguísticos e culturais. Ademais, buscou-se descobrir se estão associados ao fator migratório. A discussão foi baseada na metodologia qualitativa, em que foram utilizados como técnica de pesquisa, os estudos orais e de memória, o uso de fotografias e a pesquisa de campo. Em sua maioria, os entrevistados consistiram em pessoas idosas, pioneiras das cidades, pessoas que, possivelmente, detinham informações sobre a história da cidade em estudo. A análise, feita com base em bibliografia específica sobre o tema, demonstra que são vários os processos de nomenclatura que estão na base da criação dos topônimos do município, isto é, a motivação toponímica pode ser de origem cultural, natural, histórica, entre outras. Por fim, o estudo demonstrou que há uma tendência bastante forte para a nomeação a partir do sentido natural.
Contribuições do estudo de aquisição da linguagem: teoria linguística, prática clínica e intervenção pedagógica (Contributions of the language acquisition study: linguistic theory, clinical practice and pedagogical intervention)
Authors: Gomes Jean Carlos da Silva
Published: August 2024

Nesta revisão da literatura, discutimos as contribuições que estudos de aquisição da linguagem apresentam para além de seus objetivos primários relacionados à descrição do processo de incorporação do idioma pelas crianças. Apresentamos duas grandes contribuições, uma para a teoria linguística e outra para intervenções clínicas e pedagógicas. Quanto à primeira, discorremos sobre a contribuição de estudos de aquisição de L1 na descrição da categorização dos sons nas línguas, na validação de princípios da gramática universal, na verificação da hierarquia sintática de categorias funcionais na representação mental, na formulação de hipóteses sobre a perda linguística e no entendimento do processo de mudança linguística. Quanto à segunda, discorremos sobre como estudos de aquisição podem colaborar na diferenciação da aquisição típica e atípica, bem como diferenciar tipos de patologias linguísticas, como atraso na linguagem e desvio fonológico, além de discutir sobre a colaboração no entendimento das dificuldades dos indivíduos em processo de alfabetização.
Cash Waqf Management for Education: Challenges, Solutions and Strategies
Authors: Shiddiqy Muhammad Ash- , Makhrus Makhrus , Wibowo Muhammad Ghafur
Published: August 2024

In Indonesia, the potential for funding educational initiatives through the empowerment of cash waqf is considerable, with estimates reaching up to IDR 120 trillion annually. As of March 2022, cash waqf collections amounted to IDR 1.4 trillion, a notable increase from the IDR 855 billion accumulated between 2018 and 2021. Despite this growth, cash waqf collections remain far below their potential, limiting their impact on educational empowerment. While various researchers have proposed strategies to address these obstacles, there is a paucity of research on an ideal model for empowering education through cash waqf in Indonesia. This study aims to develop a model for the empowerment of cash waqf specifically for educational programs in Indonesia. The research utilizes the Analytic Network Process (ANP) methodology, aided by Super Decision software, which is a decision-making method based on priority scales. The study conducts a synthesis analysis of problems, solutions, and strategies related to this issue. The findings indicate that both internal and external challenges affect the empowerment of cash waqf in education, with management being the primary concern. Relevant strategies include waqf policy enhancement, nazhir (waqf managers) training and empowerment, strengthening educational programs, and promoting cash waqf. An investment-based model, coupled with partnerships, scholarships, and educational initiatives, offers insights into the management of cash waqf, from collection processes to empowerment within the educational sector.
A variable coefficient mKdV dynamic model for non-linear long wave
Authors: Wu Shu-Hao , Zhao Bao-Jun
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we obtained a variable coefficient partial differential model that characterizes non-linear long waves with topography effects through the multi-scale perturbation expansion method, especially the new model caused by the variation of background shear flow over time. Next, the expansion Jacobian elliptic function method is used to provide an analytical solution for the model and analyze its wave characteristics.
Clan Culture dalam Organisasi: Studi Fenomenologi di Organisasi Jasa Ketenagalistrikan di Jawa Tengah
Authors: Setyowati Ani , Permanasari Rusdiana
Published: August 2024

Organizational success cannot be separated from the work culture that develops in the organization. Clan culture is a culture that thrives in a work environment with a communicative and collaborative emphasis. Clan culture prioritizes deliberation for consensus because it prioritizes communication with family closeness or people who are closer. However, not all Clan cultures can be applied in all organizations such as in companies that are on an international scale. Because international-level companies prioritize the nature of professionalism and expertise in their field. The focus of the research was carried out in organizations engaged in electricity services in Central Java. The research method uses the phenomenological method. To obtain research results, researchers dig up information through interviews and observations at research locations. The interviews were conducted using a semi-structured method and succeeded in interviewing a number of 8 informants in several regional offices in Central Java. The results of the study show that the organizational character of the Clan culture approach reflects organizational members who are innovative, collaborative, and close in terms of communication so as to be able to support the creation of organizational goals.
Simulation of Non-Stationary Heat and Mass Transfer in Longwall Mining, Considering Heating and Cooling Features of Mining Equipment
Authors:   Mining Institute of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Borodavkin D.A. , Zaitsev A.V. ,   Mining Institute of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Semin M.A. ,   Mining Institute of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: August 2024

Adverse microclimatic conditions in mines and shafts negatively affect both health of employees and the safety of workflows as a whole. The existing models to calculate microclimatic parameters can consider technogenic heat emission sources (mining machinery and equipment) only in «operation» and «shutdown» modes. For the first mode, heat emissions are adopted as constant; for the second mode, they are identically zero. In reality, however, thermal inertia is specific to the equipment. It is crucial to consider it for the correct simulation of aerological processes in mine ventilation networks. A dynamic model enabling the calculation of changes in microclimatic parameters (temperature and relative air humidity) for the preset time interval and equipment operation mode in the space of longwall mining and the adjacent fitting forklifts has been suggested in the article to increase the safety of mining operations. The key feature of the model is the registration of non-stationary heat transfer between the air and the power train (the source of heat emissions). The airflow of the motor by ventilation is provided in order to protect the source motor against overheating. Upon the shutdown of the source, the cooling system is switched off, and the source is cooled due to the natural heat exchange with the air. The simulation results are provided as a space-and-time air temperature field. The high-precision simulation is confirmed by insignificant differences between calculated and experimental values. Based on the developed model, an approach to forecasting heat load levels for an employee during a work shift is proposed. The approach is based on the simulation data and the data on the employee’s location during the work shift (planogram-based). The results of the simulation show insignificant differences compared with the data of continuous measurements, which can be explained by the deviation of a real operational process from a modeled planogram. Based on the above-mentioned, it can be concluded that the model is applicable for the assessment of the thermal stress level to which employees are exposed when attending operating working areas.
A Decade Analysis (2013-2023) of Paddy's Yield Productivity by Using Landsat 8 Imagery in Sukoharjo District, Indonesia
Authors: Sekarsih Fitria Nuraini , Kusuma Guntur Fajar
Published: August 2024

Sukoharjo District has the highest rice productivity in Central Java. Sukoharjo has a strategic location. It makes this area prone to land use changes. It makes a severe impact on Paddy's productivity. This condition needs to be monitored continually. Remote sensing can provide an efficient and accurate method to solve this condition. Using the NDVI from Landsat 8 imagery and ubinan data, the model can be built to calculate and analyze paddyâ€™s productivity. The steps were 1) interpretation of paddy fields area; 2) calculation of NDVIâ€™s mean values a month before harvesting; 3) interpretation accuracy test; 4) correlation value between NDVI and ubinan data in 2022; 5) calculation of paddy productivity; and 6) analysis. Within a decade (2013-2023), there was a reduction in paddy's yield area for 981.90 Ha. During that period, there was an increase in paddy's productivity, around 38.2 x 103 tons. Almost all sub-districts in Sukoharjoâ€™s yield had been reduced except for Tawangsari and Weru. Kartasura and Grogol have experienced an intensive change in paddy yields to non-paddy yields. Intensive land use changes affected paddyâ€™s productivity. Multi-temporal imagery combined with ubinan data can be used to monitor paddyâ€™s productivity. Forty-one points were calculated for the y (productivity) and x (NDVI value) equation. The equation resulting from this method (y=6.2212x+6.7444) can be used as a reference for calculating productivity in Sukoharjo District in different periods. From different calculations, the accuracy obtained from this method was 86%.Keywords: Landsat 8; NDVI; Paddyâ€™s Productivity; Sukoharjo; Ubinan data