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Showing papers by "Hasanuddin University published in 2021"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Although remdesivir has been used as a compassionate drug for treating COVID-19 patients, it has only moderate efficacy and more efficacy assessments are urgently warranted in clinical trials.

143 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The issue of Covid‐19 and dengue fever misdiagnosis is raised, not only in a clinical setting but also with regards to cross‐reactivity between SARS‐CoV‐2 and DENV antibodies.
Abstract: The coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an international public health crisis with devastating effects. In particular, this pandemic has further exacerbated the burden in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, where dengue fever, caused by dengue virus (DENV), is already endemic to the population. The similar clinical manifestations shared by Covid-19 and dengue fever have raised concerns, especially in dengue-endemic countries with limited resources, leading to diagnostic challenges. In addition, cross-reactivity of the immune responses in these infections is an emerging concern, as pre-existing DENV-antibodies might potentially affect Covid-19 through antibody-dependent enhancement. In this review article, we aimed to raise the issue of Covid-19 and dengue fever misdiagnosis, not only in a clinical setting but also with regards to cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 and DENV antibodies. We also have discussed the potential consequences of overlapping immunological cascades between dengue and Covid-19 on disease severity and vaccine development.

106 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This study reported three cases of suspected COVID-19-dengue co-infection in hospitals of Bali, Indonesia and revealed possible cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 and DENV antibodies based on rapid serological tests.

87 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
06 Apr 2021-Life
TL;DR: Bromelain is an effective chemoresponsive proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple stems that contains several thiol endopeptidases and is extracted and purified via several methods.
Abstract: Bromelain is an effective chemoresponsive proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple stems. It contains several thiol endopeptidases and is extracted and purified via several methods. It is most commonly used as an anti-inflammatory agent, though scientists have also discovered its potential as an anticancer and antimicrobial agent. It has been reported as having positive effects on the respiratory, digestive, and circulatory systems, and potentially on the immune system. It is a natural remedy for easing arthritis symptoms, including joint pain and stiffness. This review details bromelain's varied uses in healthcare, its low toxicity, and its relationship to nanoparticles. The door of infinite possibilities will be opened up if further extensive research is carried out on this pineapple-derived enzyme.

83 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors reported the Uranium-series dating of two figurative cave paintings of Sulawesi warty pigs recently discovered in the same karst area.
Abstract: Indonesia harbors some of the oldest known surviving cave art. Previously, the earliest dated rock art from this region was a figurative painting of a Sulawesi warty pig (Sus celebensis). This image from Leang Bulu’ Sipong 4 in the limestone karsts of Maros-Pangkep, South Sulawesi, was created at least 43,900 years ago (43.9 ka) based on Uranium-series dating. Here, we report the Uranium-series dating of two figurative cave paintings of Sulawesi warty pigs recently discovered in the same karst area. The oldest, with a minimum age of 45.5 ka, is from Leang Tedongnge. The second image, from Leang Balangajia 1, dates to at least 32 ka. To our knowledge, the animal painting from Leang Tedongnge is the earliest known representational work of art in the world. There is no reason to suppose, however, that this early rock art is a unique example in Island Southeast Asia or the wider region.

70 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors determined the global prevalence of anosmia and dysgeusia in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and assessed their association with severity and mortality.
Abstract: Background: The present study aimed to determine the global prevalence of anosmia and dysgeusia in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and to assess their association with severity and mortality of COVID-19. Moreover, this study aimed to discuss the possible pathobiological mechanisms of anosmia and dysgeusia in COVID-19. Methods: Available articles from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and preprint databases (MedRxiv, BioRxiv, and Researchsquare) were searched on November 10th, 2020. Data on the characteristics of the study (anosmia, dysgeusia, and COVID-19) were extracted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline. Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess research quality. Moreover, the pooled prevalence of anosmia and dysgeusia were calculated, and the association between anosmia and dysgeusia in presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was assessed using the Z test. Results: Out of 32,142 COVID-19 patients from 107 studies, anosmia was reported in 12,038 patients with a prevalence of 38.2% (95% CI: 36.5%, 47.2%); whereas, dysgeusia was reported in 11,337 patients out of 30,901 COVID-19 patients from 101 studies, with prevalence of 36.6% (95% CI: 35.2%, 45.2%), worldwide. Furthermore, the prevalence of anosmia was 10.2-fold higher (OR: 10.21; 95% CI: 6.53, 15.96, p < 0.001) and that of dysgeusia was 8.6-fold higher (OR: 8.61; 95% CI: 5.26, 14.11, p < 0.001) in COVID-19 patients compared to those with other respiratory infections or COVID-19 like illness. To date, no study has assessed the association of anosmia and dysgeusia with severity and mortality of COVID-19. Conclusion: Anosmia and dysgeusia are prevalent in COVID-19 patients compared to those with the other non-COVID-19 respiratory infections. Several possible mechanisms have been hypothesized; however, future studies are warranted to elucidate the definitive mechanisms of anosmia and dysgeusia in COVID-19. Protocol registration: PROSPERO CRD42020223204.

64 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The feasibility of the loading of silver NPs into responsive MPs for improved antibiofilm activities when delivered using DMNs is confirmed and toxicity and in vivo pharmacodynamic studies should now be carried out in an appropriate model.

60 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The results of this work have demonstrated the versatility of hydrogel formulations to deliver a TB drug regime using MN arrays, and are a promising approach to deliver high dose of TB drugs.

51 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Persistent GI symptoms among COVID-19 survivors after discharge or recovery raises a concern regarding the long-term impact of the CO VID-19 infection on the quality of life of the survivors.
Abstract: Background: This study aimed to determine the cumulative prevalence of prolonged gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, and dysgeusia, in survivors of both mild and severe COVID-19 worldwide and to discuss the potential pathogenesis. Methods: Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant articles up to January 30, 2021. Data on study characteristics, clinical characteristics during follow-up, the number of patients with prolonged GI symptoms, and total number of COVID-19 survivors were retrieved according to PRISMA guidelines. The quality of eligible studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The pooled prevalence of specific prolonged GI symptoms was calculated and the association between COVID-19 severity and the occurrence of prolonged GI symptoms was assessed if appropriate. Results: The global prevalence of prolonged nausea was 3.23% (95% CI: 0.54%-16.53%) among 527 COVID-19 survivors. Vomiting persisted in 93 of 2,238 COVID-19 survivors (3.19%, 95% CI: 1.62%-6.17%) and prolonged diarrhea was found in 34 of 1,073 survivors (4.12%, 95% CI: 1.07%-14.64%). A total of 156 patients among 2,238 COVID-19 survivors (4.41%, 95% CI: 1.91%-9.94%) complained of persistent decreased or loss of appetite. The cumulative prevalence of prolonged abdominal pain was 1.68% (95% CI: 0.84%-3.32%), whereas persistent dysgeusia was identified in 130 cases among 1,887 COVID-19 survivors (7.04%, 95% CI: 5.96%-8.30%). Data was insufficient to assess the relationship between COVID-19 severity and the occurrence of all prolonged GI symptoms. Conclusion: Persistent GI symptoms among COVID-19 survivors after discharge or recovery raises a concern regarding the long-term impact of the COVID-19 infection on the quality of life of the survivors. Despite several potential explanations proposed, studies that aim to follow patients after recovery from COVID-19 and determine the pathogenesis of the prolonged symptoms of COVID-19 survivors are warranted. PROSPERO registration: CRD42021239187.

50 citations



Journal ArticleDOI
01 Aug 2021
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors sought to determine the prevalence of persistent long COVID symptoms such as anxiety, depression, dizziness, chest pain, sleep difficulty, palpitations, weight loss, and hair loss among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors worldwide and to discuss the potential pathogeneses.
Abstract: The study sought to determine the prevalence of persistent long COVID symptoms such as anxiety, depression, dizziness, chest pain, sleep difficulty, palpitations, weight loss, and hair loss among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors worldwide and to discuss the potential pathogeneses. Potential studies were searched in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) as of January 30, 2021. Data on study characteristics, patient characteristics during the follow-up, the number of patients with persistent long COVID symptoms and total COVID-19 survivors were collected according to PRISMA guidelines. To assess the quality of studies, the Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used. The estimated prevalence of each long COVID symptom and the association between COVID-19 severity and the occurrence of prolonged symptoms was assessed, if appropriate. The global prevalence of prolonged anxiety was 15.76% (95%CI: 6.36%, 25.15%). Chest pain persisted in 10.36% (239/3,224) of COVID-19 patients (95%CI: 4.92%, 15.80%). Prolonged depression was found in 24 of 548 COVID-19 survivors with an estimated prevalence of 4.32% (95%CI: 2.62%, 6.03%) and dizziness was presented in 4.83% (118/2,219, 95%CI: 1.50%, 8.16%) after recovery. Hair loss was complained by 527 of 2,251 recovered patients (cumulative prevalence of 24.76%, 95%CI: 19.60%, 29.91%), while weight loss was identified in 37 cases among 452 COVID-19 survivors (8.19%, 95%CI: 5.66%, 10.71%). Prolonged palpitation was experienced by 19.38% (211/1,926) survivors with 95%CI: 2.40%, 41.16%. Sleep difficulty was found in 541 of 2,622 COVID-19 survivors (17.87%, 95%CI: 7.55%, 28.20%). The association between COVID-19 severity and the occurrence of persistent long COVID symptoms was not analyzed due to the lack of data. In conclusion, persistent psychological symptoms are frequently reported among COVID-19 survivors. Follow-up studies with a longer duration and larger population are warranted to assess the extent of prolonged symptoms and the quality of life of COVID-19 survivors. Despite various potential pathogeneses that have been hypothesized, a definitive mechanism is yet to be addressed.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the enhancement of Rhodamine 6G (R6G) photocatalytic degradation by applying silver nanoparticles on a zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle structure using a pulsed laser ablation in liquid (PLAL) technique was reported.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, microneedle patches (DMP) were loaded with micronized particles of AmB to achieve localised and long-acting intradermal delivery of Amb for treatment of cutaneous fungal infections.

Journal Article
TL;DR: In this article, the authors discussed the development of predictions of land use change in 2034 using the Celular Automata Markov (CA-Markov) method, which was used to compare the land use between the 2015-2034 RTRW spatial pattern map and the CA Markov land use prediction map.
Abstract: The concentration of development in urban areas, on the one hand, increases employment in the non-agricultural sector, but also has a negative impact that is less profitable. areas, on the one hand, increases employment in the non-agricultural sector, but also has a negative impact that is less profitable. In the coastal area of Makassar City, housing development, tourism and business, have changed coastal land use rapidly in the last two decades. Uncontrolled land use can threaten coastal areas and change the sustainability of coastal areas. This study discusses the development of predictions of land use change in 2034 using the Celular Automata Markov (CA-Markov) method. . The research location of the Tanjung Merdeka coastal area is near the city of Makassar with a research area of 433.14 hectares. The main data sources are downloaded on the Landsat Google Earth satellite imagery map for 2004-2019. By using ArcMap 10.3 and Idris Selva 17.0 the predictive analysis of land change can work well. The results of this study during the period 2004-2019 that land use changed significantly in the Tanjung Bunga area, Tanjung Merdeka Village. Previously built land was only 87.17 Ha (20.13%), which has doubled to 191.26 Ha (44.16%) in 2019. The prediction of land use for 2034 shows that the largest change in constructed land is 262.39 Ha. (60.58%); The results of the research on vacant land, agriculture, ponds, water bodies and the sea are reduced. To compare the land use between the 2015-2034 RTRW spatial pattern map and the CA-Markov land use prediction map, it was done by comparing the land use of the two


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of the number of woven ramie layers (plies) and ramie fiber weight as reinforcement of composite on the tensile strength and bending strength was analyzed.
Abstract: This study aims to analyze the effect of the number of woven ramie layers (plies) and ramie fiber weight as reinforcement of composite on the tensile strength and bending strength. The woven ramie ...

Journal ArticleDOI
17 Nov 2021-Foods
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present information about changes in chemical components and bioactive compounds in coffee during preharvest and postharvest, and the selection of the appropriate cherry maturity level is the first step in the coffee manufacturing process.
Abstract: Coffee is consumed not just for its flavor, but also for its health advantages. The quality of coffee beverages is affected by a number of elements and a series of processes, including: the environment, cultivation, post-harvest, fermentation, storage, roasting, and brewing to produce a cup of coffee. The chemical components of coffee beans alter throughout this procedure. The purpose of this article is to present information about changes in chemical components and bioactive compounds in coffee during preharvest and postharvest. The selection of the appropriate cherry maturity level is the first step in the coffee manufacturing process. The coffee cherry has specific flavor-precursor components and other chemical components that become raw materials in the fermentation process. During the fermentation process, there are not many changes in the phenolic or other bioactive components of coffee. Metabolites fermented by microbes diffuse into the seeds, which improves their quality. A germination process occurs during wet processing, which increases the quantity of amino acids, while the dry process induces an increase in non-protein amino acid γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In the roasting process, there is a change in the aroma precursors from the phenolic compounds, especially chlorogenic acid, amino acids, and sugars found in coffee beans, to produce a distinctive coffee taste.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors discuss the use of carbon nanoparticles and graphene in gas sensors, examines the nodes in the commercialization pathway of these compounds, and presents the latest achievements.
Abstract: As a new nanostructure, a graphene is a compound of carbon atoms with a two-dimensional structure that has attracted the attention of many nanoscale researchers due to its novel physical and chemical properties. The presence of all graphene atoms in the surface and its unique electrical properties, as well as the ability to functionalize and combine with another nanomaterial, has introduced graphene as a new and suitable candidate material for gas sensing. Over the years, many researchers have turned their attention to carbon nanomaterial. The unique optical, mechanical, and electronic properties of these nanostructures have led them to use these nanomaterials to develop tiny devices, such as low-consumption sensors. Carbon nanomaterial poses a threat to another nanomaterial in terms of their use in gas sensors. This review article discusses the use of carbon nanoparticles and graphene in gas sensors, examines the nodes in the commercialization pathway of these compounds, and presents the latest achievements. Finally, the perspectives of the challenges and opportunities in the field of sensors based on carbon nanomaterial and graphene are examined.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Syahrul et al. as mentioned in this paper determined the global prevalence, chronological order of symptom appearance, and mortality rates with regard to hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Abstract: Background: In this study, we aimed to determine the global prevalence, chronological order of symptom appearance, and mortality rates with regard to hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and to discuss possible pathogeneses of hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke in individuals with the disease. Methods: We searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for relevant articles published up to November 8, 2020. Data regarding study characteristics, hemorrhagic stroke, ischemic stroke, and COVID-19 were retrieved in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of the eligible studies. The pooled prevalence and mortality rate of hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke were calculated. Results: The pooled estimate of prevalence of hemorrhagic stroke was 0.46% (95% CI 0.40%-0.53%;I 2 =89.81%) among 67,155 COVID-19 patients and that of ischemic stroke was 1.11% (95% CI 1.03%-1.22%;I 2 =94.07%) among 58,104 COVID-19 patients. Ischemic stroke was more predominant (incidence: 71.58%) than hemorrhagic stroke (incidence: 28.42%) in COVID-19 patients who experienced a stroke. In COVID-19 patients who experienced a stroke, hospital admission with respiratory symptoms was more commonly reported than that with neurological symptoms (20.83% for hemorrhagic stroke and 5.51% for ischemic stroke versus 6.94% for hemorrhagic stroke and 5.33% for ischemic stroke, respectively). The pooled mortality rate of COVID-19 patients who experienced a hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke was 44.72% (95% CI 36.73%-52.98%) and 36.23% (95% CI 30.63%-42.24%), respectively. Conclusions: Although the occurrence of hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke is low, the mortality rates of both stroke types in patients with COVID-19 are concerning, and therefore, despite several potential pathogeneses that have been proposed, studies aimed at definitively elucidating the mechanisms of hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke in individuals with COVID-19 are warranted. PROSPERO registration: CRD42020224470 (04/12/20) © 2021 Syahrul S et al.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe the development of long-acting dissolving and implantable PLGA MAPs aimed for systemic release of Finasteride for at least two weeks.

Journal ArticleDOI
Francesco D'Antonio1, Cihat Sen2, Daniele Di Mascio3, Alberto Galindo4, Cecilia Villalain4, Ignacio Herraiz4, Resul Arisoy2, Ali Ovayolu5, Hasan Eroğlu5, Manuel Guerra Canales, Subhashini Ladella6, Liviu Cojocaru7, Ozhan Turan7, Sifa Turan7, Eran Hadar8, Noa A. Brzezinski-Sinai8, Sarah Dollinger8, Ozlem Uyaniklar, Sakine Rahimli Ocakouglu, Zeliha Atak, Tanja Premru-Srsen9, Lilijana Kornhauser-Cerar9, Mirjam Druškovič9, Liana Ples10, Reyhan Gündüz, Elif Ağaçayak, Javier Alfonso Schvartzman, Mercedes Negri Malbran, Marco Liberati, Francesca Di Sebastiano, Ludovica Oronzi, Chiara Cerra, Danilo Buca, Angelo Cagnacci, Arianna Ramone, Fabio Barra, Andrea Carosso11, Chiara Benedetto11, Stefano Cosma11, Axelle Pintiaux, Caroline Daelemans, Elena Costa, Ayşegül Özel12, Murat Muhcu12, Jesús S Jimenez Lopez, Clara Alvarado, Anna Luengo Piqueras, Dolores Esteban Oliva, G. Schera13, Nicola Volpe13, Tiziana Frusca13, Igor Samardjiski, Slagjana Simeonova, Irena Aleksioska Papestiev, Javier Hojman, Ilgin Turkcuoglu, Antonella Cromi14, Antonio Simone Laganà14, Fabio Ghezzi14, Angelo Sirico15, Alessandra Familiari15, Giovanni Scambia15, Zulfiya Khodjaeva Gennady T. Sukhikh, Ksenia A. Gorina, Renato Augusto Moreira de Sá, Mariana Vaz, Otto Henrique May Feuerschuette, Anna Nunzia Della Gatta16, Aly Youssef16, Gaetana Di Donna16, Alicia Martínez-Varea17, Gabriela Loscalzo17, José Morales Roselló17, Vedran Stefanovic18, Irmeli Nupponen18, Kaisa Nelskylä18, Rodrigo Ayala, Rebeca Garrote Molpeceres, Asunción Pino Vázquez, Fabrizio Sandri, I. Cataneo, Marinella Lenzi, Esra Tustas Haberal, Erasmo Huertas, Amadeo Sanchez, Pedro Arango, Amanda Bermejo, María Monica Gonzalez Alcantara, Gokhan Goynumer19, Erhan Okuyan, Ciuhodaru Madalina, Ana Concheiro Guisan, Alejandra Martínez Schulte, Valentina Esposito20, Valentina De Robertis, Snezana Zdjelar, Milan Lackovic, Sladjana Mihajlovic, Nelly Jekova, Gabriele Saccone21, Mehmet Musa Aslan22, Maria Carmela Di Dedda, Maisuri T. Chalid23, Jose Enrique Moros Canache, George Daskalakis24, Panos Antsaklis24, Enrique Criado Vega25, Elisa Cueto, Chiara Taccaliti, Yeliz Aykanat26, Şerife Özlem Genç, Bernd Froessler27, Petya Angelova Radulova, Danila Morano28, Beatrice Bianchi28, Maria Giulia Lombana Marino28, Gabriella Meccariello, Bindu Rohatgi, Antonio Schiattarella29, Maddalena Morlando29, Nicola Colacurci29, Andrea Villasco11, Nicoletta Biglia11, Ana Luiza Santos Marques, Alessandra Gatti30, Daniela Luvero30, Roberto Angioli30, Alejandro Pittaro, Albert Lila, Blanka Zlatohlavkova31 
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated maternal and perinatal outcomes in high and low-risk pregnancies complicated by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in 76 centers from 25 countries in Europe, the United States, South America, Asia and Australia from April 4, 2020, to October 28, 2020.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Hypoalbuminemia was associated with poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients, and pooled diagnostic analysis of hypo Albuminemia yielded a sensitivity of 0.63 (95% CI 0.52-0.72), specificity of0.81 (95%).
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) elicits robust inflammatory reaction that may result in a declining albumin serum level. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the prognostic properties of hypoalbuminemia for poor prognosis and factors that may influence the relationship. METHOD: A systematic literature search of PubMed was conducted from inception to April 22, 2021. The main exposure was albumin level below normal range-defined by the included studies. The outcome of interest was composite poor outcome that comprises of mortality, severity, and the requirement of mechanical ventilation or intensive care unit. RESULTS: There were 6200 patients from 19 studies. Meta-analysis showed that hypoalbuminemia was associated with composite poor outcome (OR 6.97 (95% CI 4.20-11.55), p < 0.001; I2 = 91.3%, p < 0.001). Meta-regression analysis showed that age (p = 0.44), gender (p = 0.76), HT (p = 0.97), DM (p = 0.40), CKD (p = 0.65), liver disease (p = 0.72), and malignancy (p = 0.84) did not affect the association. Subgroup analysis showed that hypoalbuminemia increased mortality (OR 6.26 (95% CI 3.26-12.04), p < 0.001; I2 = 69.6%, p < 0.01) and severity of the disease (OR 7.32 (95%CI 3.94-13.59), p < 0.001; I2 = 92.5%, p < 0.01). Pooled diagnostic analysis of hypoalbuminemia yielded a sensitivity of 0.63 (95% CI 0.52-0.72), specificity of 0.81 (95% CI 0.73-0.87), and AUC of 0.77. The probability of poor outcome was 70% in patients with hypoalbuminemia and 24% in patients with normal albumin level. CONCLUSION: Hypoalbuminemia was associated with poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients.

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Sep 2021-Heliyon
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of kombucha tea based on seagrapes on blood glucose levels, total cholesterol, and PGC-1α in Swiss albino mice that were given cholesterol-and fat-enriched diets (CFED).

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a nanocrystalline (NC) formulation of ABZ was developed to be delivered intradermally using dissolving microneedles (DMNs), which was developed using milling in an ultrasmall-scale device.
Abstract: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonosis caused by Echinococcus spp., affecting both humans and animals' lives. Current treatment of CE by oral administration of albendazole (ABZ) is hampered by several limitations. The poor aqueous solubility and the rapid metabolism of ABZ in the liver are the main issues, leading to lack of efficacy of the treatment. In the present study, we developed a nanocrystalline (NC) formulation of ABZ to be delivered intradermally using dissolving microneedles (DMNs). The NC formulation was developed using milling in an ultrasmall-scale device. Following several screenings, Pluronic F127 was selected as a suitable stabilizer, producing NCs with around 400 nm in size with narrow particle distribution. The crystallinity of ABZ was maintained as observed by DSC and XRD analysis. The NC approach was able to improve the dissolution percentage of ABZ by approximately three-fold. Furthermore, the incorporation of NCs into DMNs using the combination of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and poly(vinyl alcohol) formed sharp needles with sufficient mechanical strength and insertion properties. Dermatokinetic studies revealed that >25% of ABZ was localized in the dermis of excised neonatal porcine skin up to 48 h after DMN administration. In in vivo pharmacokinetic studies, the AUC and relative bioavailability values of ABZ delivered by NC-loaded DMNs were found to be significantly higher than those obtained after oral administration of coarse suspension of ABZ or ABZ-NCs, as well as DMNs delivering coarse ABZ as indicated by the relative bioavailability values of >100%. Therefore, the combination approach developed in this study could maintain the systemic circulation of ABZ, which could be possibly caused by avoiding the first-pass metabolism in the liver. This could be beneficial to improve the efficacy of ABZ in CE treatment.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors performed preliminary and detailed surveys in the area twice by conducting Portable Dynamics Cone Penetration Test (PDCPT), collecting disturbed and undisturbed samples and using aerial drone (UAV) photography.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Different nanoparticle approaches utilized for both active and passive targeting of the lymphatic system are discussed in this paper, where the benefits of microneedles, when compared to intradermal injection, are highlighted.
Abstract: Numerous diseases have been reported to affect the lymphatic system. As such, several strategies have been developed to deliver chemotherapeutics to this specific network of tissues and associated organs. Nanotechnology has been exploited as one of the main approaches to improve the lymphatic uptake of drugs. Different nanoparticle approaches utilized for both active and passive targeting of the lymphatic system are discussed here. Specifically, due to the rich abundance of lymphatic capillaries in the dermis, particular attention is given to this route of administration, as intradermal administration could potentially result in higher lymphatic uptake compared to other routes of administration. Recently, progress in microneedle research has attracted particular attention as an alternative for the use of conventional hypodermic injections. The benefits of microneedles, when compared to intradermal injection, are subsequently highlighted. Importantly, microneedles exhibit particular benefit in relation to therapeutic targeting of the lymphatic system, especially when combined with nanoparticles, which are further discussed. However, despite the apparent benefits provided by this combination approach, further comprehensive preclinical and clinical studies are now necessary to realize the potential extent of this dual-delivery platform, further taking into consideration eventual usability and acceptability in the intended patient end-users. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.

Journal ArticleDOI
Andrew H. Baird1, James R. Guest2, Alasdair J. Edwards2, Andrew G. Bauman3, Jessica Bouwmeester4, Hanaka Mera1, David Abrego5, Mariana Álvarez-Noriega1, Russel C. Babcock6, Miguel Barbosa7, Victor E. Bonito, John A. Burt8, Patrick C. Cabaitan9, Ching-Fong Chang10, Suchana Chavanich11, Chaolun Allen Chen12, Chieh Jhen Chen10, Wei Jen Chen10, Fung Chen Chung, Sean R. Connolly13, Vivian R. Cumbo14, Maria Dornelas7, Christopher Doropoulos6, Gal Eyal15, Lee Eyal-Shaham16, Nur Fadli17, Joana Figueiredo18, Jean-François Flot19, Sze Hoon Gan20, Elizabeth J. Gomez9, Erin Graham1, Mila Grinblat1, Nataly Gutierrez-Isaza15, Saki Harii21, Peter Harrison5, Masayuki Hatta22, Nina Ann Jin Ho23, Gaetan Hoarau, Mia O. Hoogenboom1, Emily J. Howells24, Akira Iguchi25, Naoko Isomura, Emmeline A. Jamodiong21, Suppakarn Jandang11, Jude Keyse, Seiya Kitanobo21, Narinratana Kongjandtre26, Chao-Yang Kuo12, Charlon A. Ligson9, Che-Hung Lin12, Jeffrey Low, Yossi Loya27, Elizaldy A. Maboloc28, Joshua S. Madin29, Takuma Mezaki, Choo Zhi Min3, Masaya Morita21, Aurelie Moya1, Su Hwei Neo3, Matthew R. Nitschke30, Satoshi Nojima, Yoko Nozawa12, Srisakul Piromvaragorn, Sakanan Plathong31, Eneour Puill-Stephan, Kate M. Quigley32, Catalina Ramírez-Portilla19, Gerard F. Ricardo32, Kazuhiko Sakai21, Eugenia M. Sampayo15, Tom Shlesinger33, Leony Sikim, Chris Simpson, Carrie A. Sims15, Frederic Sinniger21, Davies Austin Spiji, Tracy D. Tabalanza9, Chung Hong Tan34, Tullia Isotta Terraneo35, Gergely Torda1, James True36, Karenne Tun, Kareen Vicentuan3, Voranop Viyakarn11, Zarinah Waheed20, Selina Ward15, Bette L. Willis1, Rachael M. Woods14, Erika Woolsey, Hiromi Yamamoto, Syafyudin Yusuf37 
TL;DR: The Coral Spawning Database (CSD) as discussed by the authors is a collection of 6178 observations (3085 of which were unpublished) of the time or day of spawning for over 300 scleractinian species in 61 genera from 101 sites in the Indo-Pacific.
Abstract: The discovery of multi-species synchronous spawning of scleractinian corals on the Great Barrier Reef in the 1980s stimulated an extraordinary effort to document spawning times in other parts of the globe. Unfortunately, most of these data remain unpublished which limits our understanding of regional and global reproductive patterns. The Coral Spawning Database (CSD) collates much of these disparate data into a single place. The CSD includes 6178 observations (3085 of which were unpublished) of the time or day of spawning for over 300 scleractinian species in 61 genera from 101 sites in the Indo-Pacific. The goal of the CSD is to provide open access to coral spawning data to accelerate our understanding of coral reproductive biology and to provide a baseline against which to evaluate any future changes in reproductive phenology.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the effectiveness of chemotherapy can be assessed clinically and pathologically using physical examination or imaging (mammography, ultrasonography, computed tomography scan, or magnetic resonance imaging) and includes tumor size changes after chemotherapy.
Abstract: Chemotherapy is an essential treatment for breast cancer, inducing cancer cell death. However, chemoresistance is a problem that limits the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Many factors influence chemoresistance, including drug inactivation, changes in drug targets, overexpression of ABC transporters, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions, apoptotic dysregulation, and cancer stem cells. The effectiveness of chemotherapy can be assessed clinically and pathologically. Clinical response evaluation is based on physical examination or imaging (mammography, ultrasonography, computed tomography scan, or magnetic resonance imaging) and includes tumor size changes after chemotherapy. Pathological response evaluation is a method based on tumor residues in histopathological preparations. We should be suspicious of chemoresistance if there are no significant changes clinically according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors and World Health Organization criteria or pathological changes according to the Miller and Payne criteria, especially after 2–3 cycles of chemotherapy treatments. Chemoresistance is mostly detected after the administration of chemotherapy drugs. No reliable parameters or biomarkers can predict chemotherapy responses appropriately and effectively. Well-known parameters such as cancer type, grade, subtype, estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, Ki-67, and MDR-1/P-gP have been used for selecting chemotherapy regimens. Some new methods for predicting chemoresistance include chemosensitivity and chemoresistance assays, multigene expressions, and positron emission tomography assays. The latest approaches are based on evaluation of molecular processes and the metabolic activity of cancer cells. Some methods for preventing chemoresistance include using the right regimen, using some combination of chemotherapy methods, conducting adequate monitoring, and using drugs that could prevent the emergence of multidrug resistance.

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08 Jan 2021-BMJ Open
TL;DR: The Revitalizing Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) study as discussed by the authors is a transdisciplinary randomised trial evaluating impacts of an intervention to upgrade urban informal settlements in two Asia-Pacific countries.
Abstract: Introduction Increasing urban populations have led to the growth of informal settlements, with contaminated environments linked to poor human health through a range of interlinked pathways. Here, we describe the design and methods for the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) study, a transdisciplinary randomised trial evaluating impacts of an intervention to upgrade urban informal settlements in two Asia-Pacific countries. Methods and analysis RISE is a cluster randomised controlled trial among 12 settlements in Makassar, Indonesia, and 12 in Suva, Fiji. Six settlements in each country have been randomised to receive the intervention at the outset; the remainder will serve as controls and be offered intervention delivery after trial completion. The intervention involves a water-sensitive approach, delivering site-specific, modular, decentralised infrastructure primarily aimed at improving health by decreasing exposure to environmental faecal contamination. Consenting households within each informal settlement site have been enrolled, with longitudinal assessment to involve health and well-being surveys, and human and environmental sampling. Primary outcomes will be evaluated in children under 5 years of age and include prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal pathogens, abundance and diversity of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in gastrointestinal microorganisms and markers of gastrointestinal inflammation. Diverse secondary outcomes include changes in microbial contamination; abundance and diversity of pathogens and AMR genes in environmental samples; impacts on ecological biodiversity and microclimates; mosquito vector abundance; anthropometric assessments, nutrition markers and systemic inflammation in children; caregiver-reported and self-reported health symptoms and healthcare utilisation; and measures of individual and community psychological, emotional and economic well-being. The study aims to provide proof-of-concept evidence to inform policies on upgrading of informal settlements to improve environments and human health and well-being. Ethics Study protocols have been approved by ethics boards at Monash University, Fiji National University and Hasanuddin University. Trial registration number ACTRN12618000633280; Pre-results.

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TL;DR: In this paper, a new high-performance liquid chromatographic method coupled with a UV detector (HPLC-UV) was developed to quantify the drugs in plasma and organs.
Abstract: A combination treatment comprising ivermectin (IVM), albendazole (ABZ) and doxycycline (DOX) is often prescribed for lymphatic filariasis patients. Nevertheless, there has not been an analytical method established and documented to determine these compounds simultaneously. Herein, we report a new high-performance liquid chromatographic method coupled with a UV detector (HPLC-UV) to quantify these drugs in plasma and organs. This developed analytical method was validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. The validated method was successfully employed to analyze IVM, ABZ along with its metabolites (albendazole sulfoxide (ABZ-OX) and albendazole sulfone (ABZ-ON)), and DOX in the plasma and organs of Wistar rats after simultaneous oral administration. An Xselect CSH™ C18 HPLC column was utilized as a stationary phase, with a mobile phase consisting of 0.1% v/v trifluoracetic acid in water and acetonitrile with a run time of 20 min. The calibration curves in biological samples were found to be linear across the concentration range of 0.01-5 μg mL-1 for IVM, ABZ and ABZ metabolites, and 0.025-10 μg mL-1 for DOX with an R value ≥0.998 in each case. The validated method was found to be selective, precise and accurate. Finally, the method developed in this study was deployed to assess the pharmacokinetic profiles and biodistribution of the combination of drugs after oral administration to Wistar rats. The validated HPLC-UV method in this study provides an extensive range of prospective applications for pharmacokinetic-based studies, therapeutic drug monitoring and toxicology.