bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Algorithm for extraction common properties of objects described in the predicate calculus language with a single predicate symbol
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Zhou Juan , Kosovskaya Tatiana M. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: January 2025

In artificial intelligence problems, connected with the study of complex structured objects which are described in the terms of properties of their elements and relationships between these elements, it is convenient to use predicate calculus formulas, more precisely elementary conjunctions of atomic predicate formulas. In such a case, the problem of extraction common properties of objects arises. The common properties of complex structured objects are set by formulas with variables as arguments, which, up to the names of the arguments, coincide with the subformules of the objects under study, that is, are isomorphic to these subformules. In the case of a single predicate symbol in the descriptions of objects, the problem under consideration is polynomial equivalent to the NP-hard problem of extraction the largest common subgraph of two graphs. An algorithm for finding the largest by the number of literals of a subformula with variables as arguments, isomorphic to the subformules of two elementary conjunctions of predicate formulas containing a single predicate symbol is proposed in this paper. Estimates of the computational complexity of the proposed algorithm are proved. The algorithm is implemented in Python.
A fixed point problem for a hybrid contraction and Ulam-Hyers-Rassias stability result with respect to w-distance
Authors:   Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Choudhury Binayak S. , Chakraborty Priyam ,   Indian Institute of Information Technology
Published: January 2025

In the present research, we consider a fixed point problem pertaining to a hybrid multivalued contractive mapping constructed by putting together the ideas behind the two well known families of contractions known as Geraghty and Kannan type contractions respectively. The problem is formulated with respect to w-distances which are additional structures on metric spaces and are known to be instrumental in proving important results in fixed point theory. There are several corollaries dealing with the corresponding single-valued cases of the main result. An illustrative example is described. There are also some discussions, on comparisons of certain existing results, with the results derived here. A Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability result, of the present fixed point problem, with respect to the w-distance, is established.
Once again about the school museum…
Authors:   The Chelyabinsk State Institute of Culture and Arts, Lushnikova Alla V.
Published: January 2025

One of the most numerous museum institutions, the school museum, is once again in the sphere of interest of the state and society as an instrument of education, upbringing, and formation of an active life position through the inclusion of students in independent search and creative work on the basis of museums organized in educational institutions. The article concisely identifies the origins of this phenomenon, the time of appearance and transformation of the tasks that are set for school museums. The proto-museum form of the school museum was formed in Russia already in the 18th century. But the intensity of the growth of school museums has a spasmodic character, which is due not only to political and economic factors, but also to the involvement in this process of forming a network of school museums of the state, the manifestation of personal initiative, the comprehension of tasks by the pedagogical and museum community. The article discusses the principles proposed by teachers and organizers of the museum business, which should be incorporated into the activities of the school museum. The basic principles of specialized training of students for their future profession within the framework of a practice-oriented approach in the 18th — first half 19th centuries are implemented through the use of authentic objects and models (technical, artistic, copies of artifacts), which became the basis for the formation of the first collections of school museums. This activity subsequently receives theoretical justification as one of the basic approaches in the education system — the visibility of learning, which allows to educate an independent and creative personality. The focus of local lore, declared at the turn of the 19th–20th centuries, continues to be understood in the first half of the 20th century. These positions, without disappearing into the functionality of modern school museums, are adjusted by the inclusion of school education in the civil educational order of the state. School museums, as part of the country’s general museum space, require the unification of a number of organizational issues, which is reflected in regulatory documents. But at the same time, the organizers of school museums should also take into account the need for a creative approach to defining the profile of their activities. The possibility of profile orientation of school museums is considered and, as an example, the development of a network of variable school literary museums (since the second half of the 20th century). The article discusses the issues that were identified when working on the block “School Literary Museum” for the encyclopedia “Literary Museums of Russia”: definition, functionality, origins, changes in the tasks facing an educational institution in organizing a school museum, the emergence of a profile group “school literary museum”, the normative consolidation of this profile group in the network of school museums.
The Angelology in the treatise “The Cause of the Foundation of the Schools”
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Antonyuk Mikhail V.
Published: January 2025

The article is dedicated to the analysis of the angelological concept in the Syriac treatise “The Cause of the Foundation of the Schools”, created by Barhadbshabba, the bishop of Hulwan. The purpose of this article is to consider the factors that influenced the emergence of the original teaching about angels described in the document under study. The creation of such a concept was directly influenced by the theology of Theodore of Mopsuestia, who, in his commentary on the book of Genesis, reflected the moment of teaching the angels. Barhadbshabba began to independently develop this idea, using the works of Pseudo-Dionysius and borrowing from him the hierarchy of angels in heaven in order to apply this concept to the pedagogical system he was building. Therefore, here we can also find very important traces of the influence of the Syrian pedagogical tradition in the person of at least Ephraim the Syrian and Narsai. The results of the study showed the dependence of the author of “The Reasons for the Founding of Schools” on the authors described above, which may suggest the usual perception of certain theological ideas. Nevertheless, it was revealed that Barhadbshabba developed the ideas of the above-mentioned Church figures and, on their basis, built his own angelological concept, which he presented in his treatise.
Identificação e avaliação de performances em estudos de avaliação social do ciclo de vida: uma abordagem pela análise de conteúdo
Authors:   , Morais Eulita de Souza
Published: January 2025

Ao observar os métodos aplicados em Avaliação Social do Ciclo de Vida (ACV-S),
constata-se uma expressiva variedade nas práticas de pesquisa adotadas em cada estudo,
sendo necessária uma padronização dos procedimentos metodológicos. Em geral os
estudos não seguem todas as diretrizes da UNEP, há falta de consenso sobre uma
metodologia específica em ACV-S, como também, existem abordagens teóricas e
práticas diferentes e às vezes divergentes apresentadas nas pesquisas realizadas e nos
métodos adotados para seleção, identificação e avaliação de impactos sociais. Neste
sentido, devido à sua importância no contexto de desenvolvimento econômico e social,
e do crescente interesse pelos estudos em ACV-S pela comunidade científica, o presente
estudo tem como objetivo principal, propor uma abordagem participativa bottom up
para subsidiar a identificação de questões sociais pertinentes e a avaliação de impactos
nos estudos de Avaliação Social do Ciclo de Vida, considerando o ponto de vista das
partes interessadas. A abordagem proposta será aplicada para o ciclo de vida do mel do
Rio Grande do Norte por meio do estudo de um caso, abrangendo a categoria das partes
interessadas ―Trabalhador‖. Os sujeitos respondentes da pesquisa foram selecionados de
acordo com a sua representatividade e tempo de atuação dentro da cadeia produtiva,
sendo utilizado para esta fase o método snowboll. Como também, foram realizadas
entrevistas semiestruturadas com os apicultores, com o objetivo de identificar as
questões sociais mais relevantes para estes sujeitos. Os dados coletadas foram
analisados por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo codificadas das entrevistas
realizadas, como também a avaliação pelo método SAM, com o objetivo de identificar e
classificar os impactos percebidos que emergiram nas análises. O resultado da análise
foi confrontado com as subcategorias preconizadas pela UNEP, com o objetivo de
analisar a aderência e contribuições das questões sociais que emergiram com as
subcategorias de impacto propostas pela literatura de ACV-S, como também, explorar
os impactos em cada uma delas. Concluímos que a abordagem metodológica
desenvolvida pode ser aplicada nos estudos em ACV-S para identificar e avaliar
questões sociais, levando em consideração o aprofundamento da percepção dos sujeitos
envolvidos e as estruturas culturais e de gestão de cada produto avaliado.
pH-sensitive Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles Encapsulating
Β-Hydroxyisovalerylshikonin for Targeted Pancreatic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Wang Qiuhui , Wang Shangdong , Zhou Ruiyao , Cai Jianwu , Hu Xiao
Published: January 2025

Background:

Pancreatic cancer is a highly malignant tumor with a poor prognosis, and
current treatment methods have limited effectiveness. Therefore, developing new and more effective
therapeutic strategies is crucial. This study aims to establish pH-responsive silk fibroin (SF) nanoparticles
encapsulating β-hydroxyisovalerylshikonin (SF@β-HIVS) to enhance the therapeutic effects
against pancreatic cancer.

Methods:

SF@β-HIVS nanoparticles were prepared using a self-assembly technique and characterized
under different pH conditions using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light
scattering (DLS). The effects of SF@β-HIVS on the viability, apoptosis, and migration of PANC-1
cells were assessed through in vitro experiments. Additionally, in vivo experiments using a PANC-1
xenograft mouse model evaluated the antitumor activity and biosafety of SF@β-HIVS.

Results:

SF@β-HIVS nanoparticles exhibited a uniformly distributed spherical structure under pH
7.4 conditions and rapidly disintegrated in acidic environments, releasing the drug. In vitro experiments
demonstrated that SF@β-HIVS significantly inhibited PANC-1 cell proliferation, induced
apoptosis, and suppressed cell migration. In vivo, experiments confirmed the significant antitumor
activity and good biosafety of SF@β-HIVS.

Conclusion:

This study successfully developed pH-responsive SF@β-HIVS nanoparticles and validated
their potential in treating pancreatic cancer. These findings provided a foundation for the clinical
application of SF@β-HIVS in pancreatic cancer treatment.
Investigação Sociológica Precária no Portugal Democrático
Authors: Ferreira Ana
Published: January 2025

This text starts with a socio-historical contextualisation of the transformations in the higher education and science sector during the democratic period in Portugal to reflect on the origins and expansion of precariousness in academic work. The empirical analysis scrutinizes the precarization of the sociological profession in organizations of this sector. This study reveals singularities of this scientific area and cross-cutting impacts of precariousness that hinder the full exercise of sociology. On the 50th anniversary of the 25th of April, “Peace, bread, housing, health and education” remain unfulfilled.
Nitrogen Nanobubbles on Viola cornuta growth and its effect on post-harvest quality
Authors: Rosalinda S. , Pusponegoro Annisa , Syaeful Alam Hilman , Dwi Destiana Irna , Nurjanah Sarifah , Widyasanti Asri , Syamil Fawaiz Husni
Published: January 2025

Viola cornuta is an edible flower known for its high antioxidant content and aesthetic appearance. Advanced technologies, such as nanobubbles, combined with optimized cultivation methods, can greatly improve floral quality. Nanobubbles, gas bubbles with a diameter of < 200 nm, can increase dissolved gas levels in liquids. This study aimed to analyze the application of nitrogen nanobubbles on Viola cornuta growth and its effect on post-harvest quality. The experiment was carried out where the plants were cultivated in pots with a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) irrigation system without a gully cover. Nitrogen nanobubbles were dissolved in nutrient solution every 30 minutes in the morning, delivered at a flow rate of 1 liter per minute through a swirling-flow nozzle. The results revealed that the application of nanobubbles during cultivation did not significantly affect most growth parameters, except for fresh weight and color (CIE Lch). However, nanobubbles significantly enhanced post-harvest quality parameters, with the exception of shelf life. Furthermore, nitrogen nanobubbles demonstrated a positive effect flower number, root length, and flower antioxidant activity. This study suggests that nitrogen nanobubles hold potential for improving the quality of Viola cornuta. Future research is recommended to explore the use of drip irrigation system with the same medium as in this study or NFT without a soil medium.
Comparative study of traditional and lab-scale roasting method for unpeeled robusta coffee in Bromo-Tengger-Semeru mountain slope regions
Authors: Fibrianto Kiki , Audika Ferrasta Onky , Arya Bimo Igoy
Published: January 2025

Traditionally, Robusta coffee is predominantly processed using the natural method. However, in certain regions, Robusta green beans are produced without removing their outer skin (pericarp) throughout the entire processing stages. This distinctive method is aimed at increasing yield, making the coffee more affordable for a broader consumer base. This study investigated the traditional production practices of Robusta coffee in three regions within the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru Mountains protected area: Benjor and Jabung in Malang Regency, and Wonorejo in Pasuruan Regency. The entire traditional green bean production process in these regions was observed and documented. Additionally, the roasting methods traditionally employed by farmers were compared to lab-scale medium-to-dark controlled roasting processes. A completely randomized block design was employed to evaluate the physical, chemical, and sensory quality of unpeeled Robusta coffee from Benjor, Jabung, and Wonorejo. The sensory quality was assessed using the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) official cupping test. The results showed that traditional practices in Benjor and Jabung produced coffee with a cupping score above 70, meeting the standards for good commodity-grade coffee. Interestingly, the coffee from Wonorejo, which initially had a lower sensory score, reached a comparable quality level when roasted under controlled lab-scale conditions. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis further confirmed that lab-scale roasting enhanced sweet flavor notes compared to traditional farmer practices in Wonorejo.
An improved FMEA for sustainable risk management in the agri-food industry sector: A mini-review
Authors: Wafi'uddin Izzum , Santoso Imam , Hidayat Arif , Maulidina Lu’ayya Naila , Choirun Annisa’u
Published: January 2025

Integrating sustainability into risk management is essential for the agri-food sector, as it addresses socio-ecological factors in business operations. Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) is widely used for risk management but often lacks precise numerical analysis. This paper subsequently evaluates these enhancements to FMEA, with the objective of (1) conducting a comprehensive examination of research on sustainable risk management in the agri-food industry, and (2) Analyze recent research on improving the FMEA method's effectiveness in risk management. The mini-review is systematically organized by collecting articles, selecting them based on publication year and keywords, screening titles, screening for inclusion, assessing quality through a full-text review, extracting, and analyzing data, and finally reporting the findings. An analysis of 20 papers from 2010 to 2024 was conducted, examining a variety of frameworks. The mini-review was chosen for its flexibility and focus, making it ideal for offering insights with less time and resources. The review results suggest that FMEA has been significantly altered to improve its capabilities, mainly through the integration of fuzzy logic and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Fuzzy FMEA reduces uncertainty, while FMEA-DEA assesses direct and indirect relationships between failure modes, improving risk prioritization. The paper concludes by summarizing the application of FMEA-DEA for sustainable risk management in the agri-food sector.
Pemanfaatan Permainan Who I Am Sebagai Media Pembelajaran Materi Keterbagian
Authors: Komarullah Hafif , Nurfadila Rizqy Amalia , Saputri Maura Delva
Published: January 2025

Teori bilangan merupakan salah satu materi yang terdapat di tingkat SMA. Keterbagian bilangan bulat merupakan bahan dasar dalam uraian lebih lanjut tentang pembahasan teori bilangan. Keterbagian bilangan bulat termasuk materi yang dipandang sukar untuk dimengerti oleh siswa. Hal tersebut diakibatkan siswa tidak dapat memahami karakteristik suatu bilangan. Minat belajar merupakan salah satu faktor yang dapat menunjang prestasi siswa. Metode pembelajaran konvensional dapat menyebabkan siswa kurang berminat mempelajari materi keterbagian bilangan bulat. Oleh karena itu peneliti ingin menerapkan metode pembelajaran menggunakan media modifikasi permainan who I am. Penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa media permainan who I am memiliki pengaruh positif terhadap prestasi belajar siswa sub pokok bahasan keterbagian.
Opioid-Involved Elder Abuse in the United States: Perspectives from Adult Protective Services
Authors: Roberto Karen A. , Teaster Pamela B. , Fua Imogen
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this descriptive study was to understand the nature, extent, and challenges confronted by APS programs in the United States in providing services to older clients affected by opioids. The study design involved a two-step process: Phase I involved telephone interviews with state-level Adult Protective Services administrators from 11 states considered to be “hot-bed states” for the opioid epidemic. Findings from the administrator interviews informed questions for Phase II telephone interviews with individual and small groups of local APS workers from the same states. Key findings that emerged from the interviews indicated that when opioids were involved in cases of elder abuse, allegations most often concerned self-neglect, followed by caretaker neglect and facility drug diversion. Perpetrators of opioid-involved abuse were mostly family members followed by facility staff; and cases involving opioids were perceived as harder to substantiate due to the difficulty of proving if and how medication was missing and the denial of the older victim if the perpetrator was a family member. The inability of older adults to manage medications prescribed to them was the most common explanation of how they became victims of opioid abuse. Improvements to intervention for cases involving opioids include giving APS the ability to perform background checks, more frequent use of electronic medical boxes for appropriate and timely dispensing of medications, holding perpetrators accountable to timeframes, and policies to facilitate greater access and trust of APS. In addition, working with community partners was a critical component to maximally helping older adults involved with opioid misuse. APS field staff stressed that available resources were inadequate for the complexities involved in working cases involving opioids and older adults, highlighting needs for greater financial assistance, enhanced and targeted training, specialists in addiction, and resources for homeless people.
Effectiveness of Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Short-Term, In-Hospital Mortality Among Frail and Critically Ill Patients With COVID-19: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Shang Jiawei , Yuan Ziming , Zhang Zuoyan , Zhou Quanhong , Zou Yan , Wang Wei
Published: January 2025

Background

The use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in the hospital setting is growing, with more patients using these devices at home, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frail and critically ill patients with COVID-19 and previously normal glucose tolerance are also associated with variability in their glucose levels during their intensive care unit (ICU) stay. However, very limited evidence supports the use of CGM in ICU settings, especially among frail patients with COVID-19.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of CGM on ICU-related outcomes among frail and critically ill patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Methods

This was an exploratory, prospective, open-label, parallel, single-center, randomized controlled trial. A total of 124 patients was finally analyzed. The primary outcome was 28-day, in-ICU mortality. The secondary outcome included the length of ICU stay as well as the occurrence of hypoglycemia and severe hypoglycemia events.

Results

The mean age was 78.3 (SD 11.5) years. The mean fasting glucose level and hemoglobin A1c level at baseline were 8.12 (SD 1.54) mmol/L and 7.2% (SD 0.8%), respectively. The percentage of participants with diabetes was 30.6% (38/124). The corresponding hazard ratio of the primary outcome in the intermittently scanned CGM (isCGM) group when compared with the point-of-care testing (POCT) group was 0.18 (95% CI 0.04-0.79). The average length of ICU stay was 10.0 (SD 7.57) days in the isCGM group and 14.0 (SD 6.86) days in the POCT group (P=.02). At the end of study period, the mean value of fasting glucose in the isCGM group and the POCT group was 6.07 (SD 0.63) mmol/L and 7.76 (SD 0.62) mmol/L, respectively (P=.01). A total of 207 hypoglycemia events (<3.9 mmol/L) was detected, with 43 in the isCGM group and 164 in the POCT group (P<.001). A total of 81 severe hypoglycemia events (<2.8 mmol/L) was detected, with 16 in the isCGM group and 65 in the POCT group (P<.001). The major adverse event in this study was bleeding in the puncture site, with a total of 6 occurrences in the isCGM group. During the follow-up, none of the participants dropped out because of bleeding in the puncture site.

Conclusions

We found a significant clinical benefit from the use of CGM among frail and critically ill patients with COVID-19. These findings support the use of CGM in the ICU and might help with the extension of application in various in-hospital settings.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200059733; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=169257
Digital health diplomacy: Regional and global digital health in a post-pandemic world (Preprint)
Authors: Godinho Myron Anthony , Liaw Siaw-Teng , Martins Henrique , Al-Shorbaji Najeeb , Marin Heimar F
Published: January 2025

UNSTRUCTURED

Digital health is having its moment on the diplomatic stage. Recognising the rapidly accelerating digital transformation of healthcare following COVID-19, the ‘G20 Bali Leaders’ Declaration’ called for “continued international dialogue and collaboration on the establishment of trusted global digital health networks, aligning well with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) advocacy for “more effective public participation and transparency in national and international digital health decision-making processes, such as through international consultation processes or a stakeholder forum”.
Recognising MEDINFO 2023 as a prime example of such a ‘trusted global digital health network’ and ‘stakeholder forum’ for ‘international digital health decision-making’, we propose a MEDINFO2023 panel discussion on how 'Digital Health Diplomacy’ (DHD) may serve as a boundary-spanner in this growing field to build functional knowledge bridges between regions and cultures. We will present examples from different international contexts where progress is being made on global projects for digital health services. DHD may help the public understand the value of global digital health services, and inform policy-makers and academics about the diplomacy required to achieve them. Following this panel presentation, we invite the convened global digital health community of digital health professionals, diplomats, political and social scientists, epidemiologists, academics, and clinicians to discuss, critique, and advance the emerging domain of DHD for advancing global digital health.
Interventions based on biofeedback systems to improve workers’ psychological well-being, mental health and safety: a systematic literature review (Preprint)
Authors: Ferreira Simão , Rodrigues Matilde A. , Mateus Catarina , Rodrigues Pedro Pereira , Rocha Nuno Barbosa
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

In modern, high-speed work settings, the significance of mental health disorders is increasingly acknowledged as a pressing health issue, with potential adverse consequences for organizations, including reduced productivity and increased absenteeism. Over the past few years, various mental health management solutions, such as biofeedback applications, have surfaced as promising avenues to improve employees' mental well-being.

OBJECTIVE

To gain deeper insights into the suitability and effectiveness of employing biofeedback-based mental health interventions in real-world workplace settings, given that most research has predominantly been conducted within controlled laboratory conditions.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to identify studies that used biofeedback interventions in workplace settings. The review focused on traditional biofeedback, mindfulness, app-directed interventions, immersive scenarios, and in-depth physiological data presentation.

RESULTS

The review identified nine studies employing biofeedback interventions in the workplace. Breathing techniques showed great promise in decreasing stress and physiological parameters, especially when coupled with visual and/or auditory cues.

CONCLUSIONS

Future research should focus on developing and implementing interventions to improve well-being and mental health in the workplace, with the goal of creating safer and healthier work environments and contributing to the sustainability of organizations.
Exploring Heart Rate Variability and Heart Rate Dynamics Using Wearable Before, During and After Speech Activity: Insights from a Controlled Study in a Low-Middle-Income Country (Preprint)
Authors: Sahu Nilesh Kumar , Gupta Snehil , Lone Haroon R
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a prevalent mental health condition worldwide. Its clinical diagnosis and management are challenging to scale due to reliance on frequent, motivated clinical visits for detection, monitoring, and therapy. The absence of objective biomarkers further hampers timely detection. Advances in wearable technology now enable the measurement of physiological parameters such as Heart Rate (HR) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) through electrocardiogram (ECG) data. However, the relationship between these physiological markers and SAD remains unclear, necessitating exploratory research to evaluate their potential as objective indicators of SAD.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the physiological markers of SAD by examining the relationship between ECG-derived measures and speech, a known anxiety-inducing activity, in a controlled setting.

METHODS

A total of 99 participants visited the research lab in groups of three and participated in an impromptu speech task in front of a research assistant and their peers. Clinical-grade Shimmer sensors were used to collect ECG data, capturing HR and HRV across four phases: baseline, anticipation, speech, and reflection. After data cleaning, 51 participants (31 with SAD and 20 without) were included in the analysis. Hierarchical Linear Modeling and correlation analyses were used to examine phase-specific changes in physiological markers and their association with self-reported anxiety.

RESULTS

Both SAD and Non-SAD groups exhibited phase-dependent changes, with HRV decreasing and HR increasing during the anticipation and speech phases relative to baseline. In contrast, HRV increased, and HR decreased during the reflection phase. Additionally, participants with SAD exhibited lower HRV, higher HR, and reported greater self-perceived anxiety compared to those without SAD.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that HRV and HR may serve as potential physiological markers for SAD, offering promising avenues for wearable technology to facilitate scalable detection and monitoring. The publicly available dataset from this study provides a valuable resource for further research into anxiety detection across multiple stages of speech-based activities.
Serratia marcescens peritoneal dialysis peritonitis: a clinical case and therapeutic approach
Authors: Nabil Hmaidouch , Qods Yacoubi , Rihab Dkhissi , Naima Ouzeddoun , Loubna Benamar
Published: January 2025

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is increasingly used as a kidney replacement therapy in end-stage kidney disease, especially for its benefits in patient management and quality of life. However, PD peritonitis, particularly when caused by Serratia marcescens, can be a challenging complication that may require catheter removal. We present the case of a 17-year-old patient who had three PD peritonitis episodes in less than six months, caused by Serratia marcescens that led to catheter removal. This bacteria is known for its resistance to antibiotics and potential for systemic dissemination, making prompt recognition and management crucial. Catheter removal may be necessary early on to prevent further complications and improve patient outcomes.
EXPLORING NEW MONOAMINO OXIDASE- A (MAO-A) SELECTIVE INHIBITORS FROM CUCURBITO PEPO: A VIRTUAL SCREENING, MOLECULAR DOCKING, MD SIMULATIONS AND ADMET ANALYSIS
Authors: SRINIVASA MAHENDRA GOWDRU , GHATE SUDEEP D , RAO R. SHYAMA PRASAD , MAHADEV MANOHAR
Published: January 2025

Objective: This study aimed to identify potential Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors from Cucurbita pepo to address the increasing prevalence of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, such as stroke, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, autism, migraines, and depression, by targeting key enzymes involved in neurotransmitter degradation.
Methods: The study utilised molecular docking and pharmacological, physiological, and ADMET property analyses to screen compounds from Cucurbita pepo. Ten promising MAO inhibitors were shortlisted for further analysis. Extensive Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted over 100 nanoseconds to assess the stability and dynamic behaviour within the MAO-A complex.
Results: Based on molecular docking results, four shortlisted compounds were identified as potential MAO-A inhibitors. Atomic-level docking studies were used to explore the binding mechanisms of the phytoconstituents within the active site of the MAO-A enzyme. The binding free energies of these compounds ranged from-9.183 to-6.001 kcal/mol. Phytoconstituent Compound C1 had the highest binding affinity with a G score of-9.183 kcal/mol, followed by Compound C2 with a G score of-9.045 kcal/mol. MD simulations further confirmed that both C1 and C2 formed highly stable complexes with MAO-A, suggesting their potential as effective inhibitors.
Conclusion: Compounds C1 and C2 from Cucurbita pepo show promise as stable and effective MAO-A inhibitors. Further experimental validation is required to confirm these findings and evaluate their therapeutic potential in treating neurological disorders.
QUALITY BY DESIGN-DRIVEN STATISTICAL SCREENING APPROACH TO SELECT EFFECTIVE VARIABLES FOR THE FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT OF PEGYLATED BILOSOMES FOR AN ANTIFUNGAL DRUG
Authors: NAYAK DEVIKA , RATHNANAND MAHALAXMI , TIPPAVAJHALA VAMSHI KRISHNA
Published: January 2025

Objective: The study aimed to use a quality-by-design approach to screen out the most suitable process and formulation parameters for developing antifungal drug-loaded pegylated bilosomes.
Methods: Thin film hydration technique was used to prepare the formulations. A design experiment [Design Expert® software; Design of Experiments (DOE)] employing two levels at three factors was used to conduct eight runs to select and screen formulation and process variables. It was assessed for different response variables, such as Particle Size (PS), Polydispersity Index (PDI), Zeta Potential (ZP), and Entrapment Efficiency (%EE). The screened formulation was evaluated for in vitro drug release and kinetic model evaluation.
Results: The significance of each term in the model was evaluated using an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Statistical model terms with a significant P-value of less than 0.05 and graphical analysis (Interaction plot, Pareto chart, and 3D plots) generated by DOE version 13 demonstrated that Span 60, Brij C2, and amplitude of 30% were effective variables for formulating pegylated bilosomes with a desirability value of 0.965. The validated formulation showed a PS of 299.1±5.12 nm, PDI of 0.481±0.07, ZP of-36.6±0.55 mV, and %EE of 79.25±2.75. The in vitro release showed a sustained drug release of 55.53±6.75% over 24 h.
Conclusion: Statistical screening approach using a full factorial design can serve as a valuable tool in identifying and screening significant variables for developing antifungal-encapsulated pegylated bilosomes formulations.
BOX-BEHNKEN OPTIMIZATION OF MELOXICAM MICROCAPSULE SCAFFOLDS FOR PRECISION DRUG DELIVERY IN ARTHRITIS: ENHANCED STABILITY, EFFECTIVE STERILIZATION, AND IN VIVO THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL
Authors: KUMAR SAMPATH , MOHAN MOTHILAL
Published: January 2025

Objective: This study aims to develop and evaluate an innovative implantable drug delivery system using gelatin microspheres loaded with Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), namely meloxicam (MXM), integrated into a gelatin scaffold. This system is designed to enhance drug delivery efficiency and sustain drug release.
Methods: MXM-loaded microspheres with a 1:1 ratio of Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and Poly Lacto Glycolic Acid (PLGA) were optimized for size, yield, efficiency, and release. Gelatin scaffolds were designed as rod-shaped implants, tested for stability and degradation in pH 7.4 and pH 4.0 buffers at 37 °C for 100 d, and sterilized with γ-radiation. Implants were evaluated in rabbits, with blood samples analyzed via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for pharmacokinetic parameters statistically analyzed (P<0.05).
Results: The microspheres with a 1:1 ratio of PLA and PLGA demonstrated favorable characteristics such as smaller particle sizes, high yield, and efficient drug entrapment and release. Optimization using Design Expert resulted in highly desirable scaffolds, evidenced by a desirability factor close to one across all assessed variables. The scaffolds exhibited robust physicochemical properties, including sustained drug release over an extended period, highlighting their potential for diverse biomedical applications. Implants showed greater stability in pH 7.4 buffer solutions in contrast to pH 4.0 over 100 d, with higher mass loss in acidic environments (14.4% vs. 9.66%). γ-Radiation sterilization effectively prevented microbial contamination. In vivo studies confirmed MXM detection in plasma, with Scaffold-MXM microspheres (iS-MMS-17) (optimized implantable scaffold) showing higher mean Cmax values and significant Area Under Curve (AUC) parameters, suggesting its potential for effective therapy.
Conclusion: The study found that the scaffolds exhibited strong physicochemical properties and sustained drug release, making them suitable for biomedical use. Implants were more stable at pH 7.4 than at pH 4.0, and γ-radiation effectively prevented microbial contamination. In vivo studies confirmed MXM detection, with iS-MMS-17 showing promising pharmacokinetic parameters for pain and arthritis therapy.
AN EMERGING ERA IN DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR TREATMENT OF MALARIA: WAVE FROM CONVENTIONAL TO ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
Authors: SHARMA TAMNNA , SHARMA ABHISHEK
Published: January 2025

Colonization of the erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium falciparum has become a challenging aspect in every drug delivery system because it is responsible for each clinical manifestation and life-threatening complication in malaria. With the emergence of resistance in malarial parasites in the recent past, developing a vaccine against malaria is still a long-drawn-out affair. However, recent reports of the recombinant protein-based vaccine against malaria vaccine from Glaxo Smith Kline have initiated a new ray of hope. In such a scenario, the onus of developing a reliable drug against the disease remains the mainstay in fighting against malaria. This review delves into the various attempts carried out by researchers in the past to develop a drug against the erythrocytic stages of the malaria parasite and throws light on a very recent outcome that provides targeted delivery of the drug to the infected erythrocyte using a nanotechnology-based approach. Considering the eventful journey in the beginning, it was the discovery of chloroquine that created an epoch in the treatment of malaria. Due to its low cost and high efficacy, it became the most widely used antimalarial. Until the 1960s, Chloroquine (CQ) was the best solution against malaria but the scenario changed in the 1970s due to widespread clinical resistance in Plasmodium falciparum, and Plasmodium vivax in various parts of the world. This, in turn, led to the development of novel drug delivery systems using liposomes and Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for more effective and site-specific delivery of chloroquine to the infected erythrocytes. Such attempts led to a later use of the nanotechnology-based approach which included the use of nanospheres and nanoparticulate drug carriers.
FORMULATION AND IN VITRO EVALUATION OF VENLAFAXINE MATRIX TABLETS USING GUM KONDAGOGU AS EXCIPIENT
Authors: DINDIGALA ANIL KUMAR , CHAPPIDI SURYAPRAKASH REDDY , MAKINENI ANANTHA
Published: January 2025

Objective: A naturally obtained Gum Kondagogu (GK) investigated as a novel matrix-forming material for sustained drug delivery using Venlafaxine HCl (VH) as a model drug.
Methods: The VH tablets were prepared with different concentrations of GK along with other excipients such as sodium alginate and zinc acetate. The compressed tablets were then evaluated for pre-compression parameters, including flow properties and post-compression parameters, such as hardness, friability, and drug content uniformity. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) studies were conducted to assess potential interactions between the excipients and the drug. Additionally, the lead formulation underwent accelerated stability studies at 40±2 °C/75±5% RH for 3 mo to evaluate the stability and consistency of drug release.
Results: The compressed tablets of VH with GK were found to have acceptable pre-and post-compression parameters. Among the various formulations tested, the one containing 0.25%w/v of GK, 0.3% of sodium alginate, and 0.3% of zinc acetate demonstrated a release profile closely matching that of a commercial tablet dosage form. FTIR and DSC studies confirmed that there were no interactions between the excipients and the drug. The lead formulation maintained stability over 3 mo of accelerated stability studies, with no significant changes in drug release observed during this period.
Conclusion: GK has shown potential as a controlled release agent for oral dosage forms, particularly for drugs like VH. The formulation containing 0.25%w/v of GK, 0.3% of sodium alginate, and 0.3% of zinc acetate exhibited a release profile similar to that of a commercial product and maintained stability under accelerated conditions. These findings suggest that GK could be a viable option for developing control-release oral formulations.
3D PRINTING IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY: A SPECIAL CONSIDERATION ON MEDICAL DEVICE AND ITS APPLICATIONS
Authors: ELANGO VIVEKANANDAN , M MURUGAPPAN , VETRIVEL KARTHIKEYAN , M YUSUF , NIKAM KSHITIJA DILIP
Published: January 2025

3 Dimensional (3D) printing has seemed to be the technology of radical development for the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in medical device manufacturing. The current review elaborates on the applications of 3D printing, challenges, and potentials in pharmaceutical medical devices. The technology allows for complicated personalized devices with accuracy and cost-effectiveness as never before, bringing in the key applications for this technology in the fields of prostheses, orthoses, surgical guides, audiology devices, and bioresorbable implants. It brings along customization, better pre-operative planning, and new drug delivery systems, but there are quality control and regulatory challenges to be faced: material selection, process validation, sterilization, and scalability. In view of this upcoming technology, the regulatory bodies are having to update their guidelines to ensure continued safety and efficacy. On the road ahead, with artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and 4 Dimensional (4D) printing, future developments could make sophisticated medical equipment and change the management and outcome of diseases. While 3D printing opens up newer routes of innovation in the pharmaceutical industry, there are major concerns on issues of scalability and regulatory matters. This technology will thus make a significant impact on healthcare delivery through these coming decades, with changes in the global research and regulatory landscapes.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES CONTAINING ROSUVASTATIN USING CENTRAL COMPOSITE DESIGN
Authors: DUTTA DISHARI , CHAKRABORTY PRANABESH , HOSSAIN CHOWDHURY MOBASWAR
Published: January 2025

Objective: Rosuvastatin calcium, a BCS class II drug with low solubility, was optimized using a central composite design to improve its bioavailability.
Methods: The study utilized Kolliphor RH 40 as an emulsifier and glyceryl monostearate as a solid lipid in preparing solid lipid nanoparticle dispersion, optimizing formulations based on mean dissolution time and entrapment efficiency.
Results: The study analyzed the entrapment efficiency and mean dissolution time of the prepared solid lipid nanoparticles. The range of mean dissolution time was found 7.1+0.5 to 8.9+0.6 h. The highest entrapment efficiency was found to be 90.28%, with a standard deviation of 0.2. The linear model was chosen based on data precision and trend, while the quadratic model was selected for mean dissolution time. The 3D view graph indicated the model/equation followed by the formulations. The optimized formulation had a particle size of 16.16+10 nm and particle size distribution index to 0.729+002, indicating high homogeneity. Transmission electron microscopy images and dynamic light scattering data were in correlation. XRD, DSC used to analyze the drug's transformation into amorphous form. The dissolution profile of different formulations was plotted, and the optimized formulation followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. FTIR showed drug peaks, indicating no interaction.
Conclusion: The study suggested that the bioavailability of rosuvastatin calcium can be enhanced through the preparation of solid lipid nanoparticles of smaller size and sustained release of rosuvastatin.
EXPLOITING THE DESIGN OF EXPERIMENTS FOR PREPARING EXTENDED-RELEASE DOSAGE FORM OF GLICLAZIDE USING THE HOT-MELT EXTRUSION TECHNIQUE
Authors: HASHIM IBRAHIM , ALSUWAIS ALIA KH. , ALHAIJA ALAA ABU , ALJABERI AHMAD
Published: January 2025

Objective: Polyethylene Oxide (PEO) is an amphiphilic polymer available in various grades, allowing manipulation of drug release rates. This work hypothesized the attempt to combine Hot-Melt Extrusion (HME) and Design of Experiments (DoE) with mixtures of various PEO grades to efficiently produce a dosage form with tailored drug release.
Methods: MODDE software recommended sixteen runs. A D-optimal mixture design evaluated the effects of gliclazide, PEO 303, and PEO 205 on the release profile of extrudates containing, as well fixed amounts of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) 8000 and Colloidal Silicon Dioxide (CSD). The formulations were extruded at a screw speed of 20 rpm using a vertical lab-scale single screw with four heating zones set at 85, 90, 90, and 95 °C. The most discriminative dissolution method was used to generate release profiles of extrudate containing 30 mg of the drug. Factors affecting the drug release rate at 1, 3, 4, and 6 h were identified and modeled.
Results: The goodness of fit (R2) and prediction (Q2) for release responses were 0.969 and 0.830 at 1 h, 0.983 and 0.760 at 3 h, 0.987 and 0.687 at 4 h, and 0.947 and 0.786 at 6 h, respectively. The optimal design space for PEO 303 as a release-retarding polymer and PEO 205 as a release modifier at each gliclazide level (10–30%) was successfully constructed by Response Surface Modeling (RSM).
Conclusion: This work produced an extended-release profile of gliclazide that mimics the innovator by leveraging HME and DoE.
NETWORK PHARMACOLOGY BASED COMPUTATIONAL STUDY TO INVESTIGATE THE POTENTIAL MECHANISM OF SYZYGIUM CARYOPHYLLATUM AGAINST COLON CANCER
Authors: PEMMEREDDY RAMADEVI , MILI AJAY , BYREGOWDA BHARATH HAROHALLI , GIRIDHAR JYOTHI , K SREEDHARA RANGANATH PAI , MATHEW ANNA , PAI VASUDEV , K. S CHANDRASHEKAR
Published: January 2025

Objective: Syzygium caryophyllatum, a traditional medicinal plant from the Myrtaceae family, is rich in potential phytoconstituents. Based on its ethnobotanical uses and documented pharmacological activities, present work was conducted to evaluate the probable mechanism of action of S. caryophyllatum to manage colon cancer by integrating network pharmacology and computational studies.
Methods: The plant extract was prepared by Soxhlet extraction method and in vitro screening was performed using Sulforhodamine (SRB) Assay on HT 29 cancer cell lines. We have used super-PRED database, Cytoscape network analyser tool, string database and CytoHubba for performing network analysis for the extract compounds reported in GC-MS analysis. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and DAVID databases were used for gene set enrichment analysis. We have used Schrödinger suite Version 11.4's to perform computational studies.
Results: The extract has demonstrated significant in vitro cytotoxic activity (IC50 value is 49.01 µg/ml) and the GC-MS analysis identified seventy-six distinct compounds. The Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG demonstrated that the shared targets were strongly associated with key processes involved in colon cancer. The current study has identified Estrogen Receptor Alpha (ESR1), Heat Shock Protein 90 Alpha Family Class A Member 1 (HSP90AA1), Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAP3K), Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) proteins as essential targets and 5,7-Dihydroxy-2-undecyl-4H-chromen-4-one, 7a,12-Dihydroindolo[2,3-a] quinolizine, 5-hydroxy-7-methoxy-2-methyl-8-(3-methylbutyl) chromen-4-one as key compounds. Docking studies of the compounds with core proteins completely supplemented their binding affinity and suggested strong interactions at the binding site.
Conclusion: These outcomes highlight the multi-target, multi-compound, and multi-pathway approaches of S. caryophyllatum against colon cancer.