Assessing validity and reliability of Copenhagen burnout tool and DASS-21 amongst the faculty members.

BACKGROUND: Various tools had been used to measure the level of burnout, anxiety, and depression. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory assesses personal, work or job, and patient related burnout. While DASS21 assesses stress, anxiety, and depression. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the validity, reliability of Copenhagen burnout tool and DASS-21 amongst the faculty members employed in Pakistan. METHODS: This cross-sectional research incorporated 384 medical, dental, and nursing faculty working full time at university. Data for research was collected from January to May 2023. Copenhagen and DASS21 survey were the survey tools used to identify the level of burnout and stress. Reliability of both tools was assessed using Cronbach alpha. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to detect factorial structure of both tools. Pearson correlation was conducted to detect association between various domains. Multiple logistic regression was computed to detect relationship between the domains. RESULTS: From a total of 384 participants, there were 118 (30.7%) males, 266 (69.3%) females. There were 169 (44%) medical, 140 (36.5%) dental, and 75 (19.5%) nursing faculty. Reliability analysis revealed satisfactory results for both tools. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated a four-model fit for the CBI, whilst a three-factor model was observed for DASS21. Personal burnout demonstrated positive and significant correlation with work related burnout, and stress, while it showed significant but negative correlation with depression. CONCLUSION: Female faculty displaced higher academic burnout as compared to men. A statistically significant correlation between burnout, anxiety, and depression. Both tools displayed high reliability and validity for the current sample.

Recent developments of artificial intelligence in MXene-based devices: from synthesis to applications.

Two-dimensional transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides (MXenes) have garnered remarkable attention in various energy and environmental applications due to their high electrical conductivity, good thermal properties, large surface area, high mechanical strength, rapid charge transport mechanism, and tunable surface properties. Recently, artificial intelligence has been considered an emerging technology, and has been widely used in materials science, engineering, and biomedical applications due to its high efficiency and precision. In this review, we focus on the role of artificial intelligence-based technology in MXene-based devices and discuss the latest research directions of artificial intelligence in MXene-based devices, especially the use of artificial intelligence-based modeling tools for energy storage devices, sensors, and memristors. In addition, emphasis is given to recent progress made in synthesis methods for various MXenes and their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, the review ends with several recommendations and suggestions regarding the role of artificial intelligence in fabricating MXene-based devices. We anticipate that this review will provide guidelines on future research directions suitable for practical applications.

Assessing institutional image's influence on student satisfaction and loyalty in Singapore's higher education: A study on higher learning institution students.

This research project expands on previous studies to analyze the institutional image from the perspective of higher education students in Singapore. The work builds on extensive prior research and examines the impact of the recent pandemic and lockdowns in Asia, which have increased Singapore's popularity as a study destination for Asian students, particularly from China. Known as the Garden City and one of Asia's wealthiest cities, Singapore has grown significantly due to foreign direct investment and its strategic location near Malaysia and Indonesia. This study aims to identify institutional and city image dimensions in higher education, focusing on three of Singapore's six publicly funded universities. The critical factors examined include Institutional Image, Economic Image, Social Image, Environmental Image, Perceived Educational Quality, and Satisfaction and Loyalty. These factors are crucial for Singapore's goal to become an innovation and talent powerhouse by 2030, aligning with national scientific and technological advancement plans. The research also explores how Singapore competes with traditional study destinations like the USA, Britain, and Australia.

From genes to therapy: A comprehensive exploration of congenital heart disease through the lens of genetics and emerging technologies.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects approximately 1 % of live births worldwide, making it the most common congenital anomaly in newborns. Recent advancements in genetics and genomics have significantly deepened our understanding of the genetics of CHDs. While the majority of CHD etiology remains unclear, evidence consistently indicates that genetics play a significant role in its development. CHD etiology holds promise for enhancing diagnosis and developing novel therapies to improve patient outcomes. In this review, we explore the contributions of both monogenic and polygenic factors of CHDs and highlight the transformative impact of emerging technologies on these fields. We also summarized the state-of-the-art techniques, including targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS), whole genome and whole exome sequencing (WGS, WES), single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and others, that have revolutionized our understanding of cardiovascular disease genetics both from diagnosis perspective and from disease mechanism perspective in children and young adults. These molecular diagnostic techniques have identified new genes and chromosomal regions involved in syndromic and non-syndromic CHD, enabling a more defined explanation of the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms. As our knowledge and technologies continue to evolve, they promise to enhance clinical outcomes and reduce the CHD burden worldwide.

Evaluating empathy level amongst the dental students using jefferson scale of physician empathy- health professional students.

BACKGROUND: Empathy is described as one's ability to perceive and apprehend another person's feelings, situation, emotions, and problems as their own. Empathetic behavior increases patients' satisfaction, reduces discomfort, and helps with patient's satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Jefferson Empathy Scale and compare the measure of invariance within genders and amongst the public and private sector dental students. METHOD: This cross-sectional study utilized JSE-HPS version for research purpose. An exploratory factor analysis was performed to detect underlying factors. Reliability of the study tool was evaluated using Cronbach alpha test. Mann Whitney U test was used to compare the differences in scores between genders and among public and private university students while Student's t analysis compared the scores according to different domains. The level of significance was ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: Females demonstrated higher empathy levels (88.52 ± 14.19) along with private institute students (88.46 ± 13.98). Perspective taking and compassionate care domain was also scored highest by the females (31.73 ± 6.49 & 29.31 ± 6.22) and among second year students (33.30 ± 7.11 & 30.50 ± 7.16). PCA analysis extracted 4 factors namely (i) Health-care-provider's sense of humor contributed to improved outcome (ii) Health-care provider's understanding of patients' feelings and of their families influences treatment outcomes (iii) Understanding body language is as important as verbal communication and (iv) Patients feel better when their feelings are understood, which accounted for the 59.51% of the total variance. CONCLUSION: The findings revealed that students from private institute and females demonstrated higher empathy score. Moreover, the Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE) was found to be a reliable and validated tool for assessment of empathy in our sample population.

The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the adoption and impact of AI ChatGPT: Challenges, applications, and ethical considerations.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: This article employs qualitative thematic modeling to gather insights from 30 informants. The study explores various aspects related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on AI ChatGPT technologies. PURPOSE: The purpose of this research is to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the increased usage and adoption of AI ChatGPT. It aims to explore the pandemic's impact on AI ChatGPT and its applications in specific domains, as well as the challenges and opportunities it presents. FINDINGS: The findings highlight that the pandemic has led to a surge in online activities, resulting in a heightened demand for AI ChatGPT. It has been widely used in areas such as healthcare, mental health support, remote collaboration, and personalized customer experiences. The article showcases examples of AI ChatGPT's application during the pandemic. STRENGTH OF STUDY: This qualitative framework enables the study to delve deeply into the multifaceted dimensions of AI ChatGPT's role during the pandemic, capturing the diverse experiences and insights of users, practitioners, and experts. By embracing the qualitative nature of inquiry and this research offers a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations associated with the adoption and utilization of AI ChatGPT in crisis contexts. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The insights from this research have practical implications for policymakers, developers, and researchers. This reserach emphasize the need for responsible and ethical implementation of AI ChatGPT to fully harness its potential in addressing societal needs during and beyond the pandemic. SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The increased reliance on AI ChatGPT during the pandemic has led to changes in user behavior, expectations, and interactions. However, it has also unveiled ethical considerations and potential risks. Addressing societal and ethical concerns, such as user impact and autonomy, privacy and security, bias and fairness, and transparency and accountability, is crucial for the responsible deployment of AI ChatGPT. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This research contributes to the understanding of the novel role of AI ChatGPT in times of crisis, particularly in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the necessity of responsible and ethical implementation of AI ChatGPT and provides valuable insights for the development and application of AI technology in the future.

Targeting NF-κB signaling cascades of glioblastoma by a natural benzophenone, garcinol, via in vitro and molecular docking approaches.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is regarded as the most aggressive form of brain tumor delineated by high cellular heterogeneity; it is resistant to conventional therapeutic regimens. In this study, the anti-cancer potential of garcinol, a naturally derived benzophenone, was assessed against GBM. During the analysis, we observed a reduction in the viability of rat glioblastoma C6 cells at a concentration of 30 µM of the extract (p < 0.001). Exposure to garcinol also induced nuclear fragmentation and condensation, as evidenced by DAPI-stained photomicrographs of C6 cells. The dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential in a dose-dependent fashion was linked to the activation of caspases. Furthermore, it was observed that garcinol mediated the inhibition of NF-κB (p < 0.001) and decreased the expression of genes associated with cell survival (Bcl-XL, Bcl-2, and survivin) and proliferation (cyclin D1). Moreover, garcinol showed interaction with NF-κB through some important amino acid residues, such as Pro275, Trp258, Glu225, and Gly259 during molecular docking analysis. Comparative analysis with positive control (temozolomide) was also performed. We found that garcinol induced apoptotic cell death via inhibiting NF-κB activity in C6 cells, thus implicating it as a plausible therapeutic agent for GBM.

Caries risk assessment by Caries Management by Risk Assessment (CAMBRA) Protocol among the general population of Pakistan-a multicenter analytical study.

Background: Caries risk (CR) assessment tools are used to properly identify individuals with caries risk and to improve preventive procedures and programs. A tool such as CAMBRA determines the precise protective factors of caries and identifies an individual's specific therapeutic intervention. The purpose of this study was to assess the caries risk using the CAMBRA protocol among the general population of Pakistan. Methods: This multicentre analytical study was conducted in ten dental hospitals in different provinces of Pakistan and the caries risk assessment was carried out using a questionnaire that was designed using the Caries Management by Risk Assessment (CAMBRA) protocol. All 521 participants were intra-orally examined to assess oral hygiene status and the presence of disease. Multiple logistic regression test was performed for analysis. Results: A higher number of participants (61.2%) were found to be in the moderate risk category of caries risk assessment. The males are 51% less likely to have caries compared to the females (AOR = 0.49, P = 0.081). The majority of participants (71.3%) had one or more disease indicators, with white spots and visible cavities. Those with visible, heavy plaque were 13.9 times more likely to have caries compared to those without (AOR = 13.92, P < 0.001). Those using calcium and phosphate during the last 6 months were 90% less likely to have caries compared to those not using them (AOR = 0.10, P < 0.001). There was no significant interaction between all eight risk factors retained in the final model (P > 0.05), the Hosmer and Lemeshow Test P < 0.001, classification accuracy = 87.1%, and AUC = 91.2%. Conclusion: The caries risk among the general population of Pakistan is moderate, with significant variation among age groups, education levels, and socioeconomic status.

Exploring the impact of social media on tourist behavior in rural mountain tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic: The role of perceived risk and community participation.

PURPOSE: This research article aims to assess the behavior of tourists in sustainable rural mountain tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the role of social media usage. It investigates the key social media features that influence tourist behavior and introduces the concept of perceived risk as a novel variable within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to deepen our understanding of the relationship between social media use and tourist behavior. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The study conducts an extensive literature review and utilizes survey analysis. Three parameters-perception of risk, perception of value, and trust in social media-are employed to measure the impact of influential social media features. Statistical tests are applied to validate the new variable of perceived risk within the TAM. FINDINGS: The study unveils that tourists' perception of risk associated with social media has the most significant influence on their behavior in rural mountain tourism during the pandemic. Additionally, it identifies that active engagement of tourists in online discussions positively affects both tourist behavior and social media usage, emphasizing the importance of community participation. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS: The research acknowledges limitations, including the need for further validation of the perceived risk variable and the consideration of contextual influences. Future studies should explore additional variables and encompass diverse tourist populations to expand the understanding of social media usage and tourist behavior in rural mountain regions. CONTRIBUTION OF RESEARCH: This research significantly advances the understanding of tourist behavior in sustainable rural mountain tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic by introducing the novel variable of "perceived risk" within the Technology Acceptance Model. The study identifies influential social media features and underscores the positive effects of participatory habits, providing valuable insights for promoting sustainable tourism through targeted social media interventions. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This research holds significant practical implications for practitioners and policymakers seeking to promote sustainable tourism in rural mountain regions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The identification of influential social media features and the emphasis on participatory habits among tourists offer actionable insights. Practitioners can leverage these findings to design targeted social media interventions that foster community engagement and enhance tourists' perception of value while mitigating perceived risks. Policymakers can use this information to shape strategies that encourage interactive online platforms, creating a sense of community participation to boost sustainable tourism.

Heartfelt living: Deciphering the link between lifestyle choices and cardiovascular vitality.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are still leading to a significant number of deaths worldwide despite the remarkable advancements in medical technology and pharmacology. Managing patients with established CVDs is a challenge for healthcare providers as it requires reducing the chances of recurring cardiovascular events. On the other hand, changing one's way of life can also significantly impact this area, reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular disease and death through their unique advantages. Consequently, it is advisable for healthcare providers to regularly advise their patients with coronary issues to participate in organized physical exercise and improve their overall physical activity. Additionally, patients should adhere to a diet that promotes heart health, cease smoking, avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, and address any psychosocial stressors that may heighten the risk of cardiovascular problems. These lifestyle therapies, whether used alongside drug therapy or on their own in patients who may have difficulty tolerating medications, face financial barriers, or experience ineffectiveness, can substantially reduce cardiovascular mortality and the likelihood of recurring cardiac events. Despite the considerable advancements in creating interventions, it is still necessary to determine the optimal intensity, duration, and delivery method for these interventions. Furthermore, it is crucial to carry out further investigations incorporating extended monitoring and assessment of clinical outcomes to get a more comprehensive comprehension of the efficacy of these therapies. Presenting the findings within the framework of "lifestyle medicine," this review seeks to offer a thorough synopsis of the most recent scientific investigations into the potential of behavioral modifications to lower cardiovascular disease risk.

Perception of dental students and faculty regarding the practice of professionalism in dentistry using the Professionalism Mini Evaluation Exercise (P-MEX).

BACKGROUND: Professionalism is one of the fundamental traits which includes behaviors, commitments, standards, and goals that helps define a profession. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the attitude of dental students and graduates regarding the practice of professionalism in dentistry using the Professionalism Mini Evaluation Exercise (P-MEX) questionnaire. METHOD: This cross-sectional study was conducted amongst the dental undergraduates, lecturers and postgraduate faculty. Views regarding professionalism were assessed using the P-MEX. The 24-questions based survey form is comprised of questions related to doctor and patient relationship skills, reflective abilities, time management, and lastly, interprofessional relationship expertise. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics were done using mean and SD, whilst associations between responses were assessed using Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: From a total of 201 participants, 95 (47.3%) were males and 106 (52.7%) were females. Statistically significant association was seen between time management, reflective skills, and interpersonal skills with gender, as well as the domains of P-MEX and years of education. CONCLUSION: The use of P-MEX provides a valid confirmation for the assessment and awareness of professionalism amongst the dental faculty and students. Females demonstrated higher traits of professionalism as compared to males. The findings from the current study identify that students and faculty members had sufficient awareness regarding professionalism and the practice of professionalism was routinely followed.

Beyond the beat: A pioneering investigation into exercise modalities for alleviating diabetic cardiomyopathy and enhancing cardiac health.

Patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease or those at high risk for developing the condition are often offered exercise as a form of therapy. Patients with cancer who are at an increased risk for cardiovascular issues are increasingly encouraged to participate in exercise-based, interdisciplinary programs due to the positive correlation between these interventions and clinical outcomes following myocardial infarction. Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC) is a cardiac disorder that arises due to disruptions in the homeostasis of individuals with diabetes. One of the primary reasons for mortality in individuals with diabetes is the presence of cardiac structural damage and functional abnormalities, which are the primary pathological features of DC. The aetiology of dilated cardiomyopathy is multifaceted and encompasses a range of processes, including metabolic abnormalities, impaired mitochondrial function, dysregulation of calcium ion homeostasis, excessive cardiomyocyte death, and fibrosis. In recent years, many empirical investigations have demonstrated that exercise training substantially impacts the prevention and management of diabetes. Exercise has been found to positively impact the recovery of diabetes and improve several metabolic problem characteristics associated with DC. One potential benefit of exercise is its ability to increase systolic activity, which can enhance cardiometabolic and facilitate the repair of structural damage to the heart caused by DC, leading to a direct improvement in cardiac health. In contrast, exercise has the potential to indirectly mitigate the pathological progression of DC through its ability to decrease circulating levels of sugar and fat while concurrently enhancing insulin sensitivity. A more comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanism via exercise facilitates the restoration of DC disease must be understood. Our goal in this review was to provide helpful information and clues for developing new therapeutic techniques for motion alleviation DC by examining the molecular mechanisms involved.

Single-cell RNA Sequencing (scRNA-seq): Advances and Challenges for Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs).

Implementing Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has significantly enhanced our comprehension of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), providing new opportunities to strengthen the prevention of CVDs progression. Cardiovascular diseases continue to be the primary cause of death worldwide. Improving treatment strategies and patient risk assessment requires a deeper understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying these disorders. The advanced and widespread use of Single-cell RNA sequencing enables a comprehensive investigation of the complex cellular makeup of the heart, surpassing essential descriptive aspects. This enhances our understanding of disease causes and directs functional research. The significant advancement in understanding cellular phenotypes has enhanced the study of fundamental cardiovascular science. scRNA-seq enables the identification of discrete cellular subgroups, unveiling previously unknown cell types in the heart and vascular systems that may have relevance to different disease pathologies. Moreover, scRNA-seq has revealed significant heterogeneity in phenotypes among distinct cell subtypes. Finally, we will examine current and upcoming scRNA-seq studies about various aspects of the cardiovascular system, assessing their potential impact on our understanding of the cardiovascular system and offering insight into how these technologies may revolutionise the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac conditions.

The Multifunctional TRPC6 Protein: Significance in the Field of Cardiovascular Studies.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, medical complications, and healthcare costs. Although recent advances have been in treating cardiovascular disorders linked with a reduced ejection fraction, acutely decompensate cardiac failure remains a significant medical problem. The transient receptor potential cation channel (TRPC6) family responds to neurohormonal and mechanical stress, playing critical roles in cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, TRP C6 channels have great promise as therapeutic targets. Numerous studies have investigated the roles of TRP C6 channels in pain neurons, highlighting their significance in cardiovascular research. The TRPC6 protein exhibits a broad distribution in various organs and tissues, including the brain, nerves, heart, blood vessels, lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and other bodily structures. Its activation can be triggered by alterations in osmotic pressure, mechanical stimulation, and diacylglycerol. Consequently, TRPC6 plays a significant role in the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying diverse diseases within living organisms. A recent study has indicated a strong correlation between the disorder known as TRPC6 and the development of cardiovascular diseases. Consequently, investigations into the association between TRPC6 and cardiovascular diseases have gained significant attention in the scientific community. This review explores the most recent developments in the recognition and characterization of TRPC6. Additionally, it considers the field's prospects while examining how TRPC6 might be altered and its clinical applications.

Shaping the Future of Cardiovascular Disease by 3D Printing Applications in Stent Technology and its Clinical Outcomes.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death worldwide. In recent years, 3D printing technology has ushered in a new era of innovation in cardiovascular medicine. 3D printing in CVD management encompasses various aspects, from patient-specific models and preoperative planning to customized medical devices and novel therapeutic approaches. In-stent technology, 3D printing has revolutionized the design and fabrication of intravascular stents, offering tailored solutions for complex anatomies and individualized patient needs. The advantages of 3D-printed stents, such as improved biocompatibility, enhanced mechanical properties, and reduced risk of in-stent restenosis. Moreover, the clinical trials and case studies that shed light on the potential of 3D printing technology to improve patient outcomes and revolutionize the field has been comprehensively discussed. Furthermore, regulatory considerations, and challenges in implementing 3D-printed stents in clinical practice are also addressed, underscoring the need for standardization and quality assurance to ensure patient safety and device reliability. This review highlights a comprehensive resource for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers seeking to harness the full potential of 3D printing technology in the fight against CVD.

Natural Allies for Heart Health: Nrf2 Activation and Cardiovascular Disease Management.

The term "cardiovascular diseases" (CVD) refers to various ailments that affect the heart and blood vessels, including myocardial ischemia, congenital heart defects, heart failure, rheumatic heart disease, hypertension, peripheral artery disease, atherosclerosis, and cardiomyopathies. Despite significant breakthroughs in preventative measures and treatment choices, CVDs significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality, imposing a considerable financial burden. Oxidative stress (OS) is a fundamental contributor to the development and progression of CVDs, resulting from an inherent disparity in generating reactive oxygen species. The disparity above significantly contributes to the aberrant operation of the cardiovascular system. To tackle this issue, therapeutic intervention primarily emphasizes the nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcription factor crucial in regulating endogenous antioxidant defense systems against OS. The Nrf2 exhibits potential as a promising target for effectively managing CVDs. Significantly, an emerging field of study is around the utilization of natural substances to stimulate the activation of Nrf2, hence facilitating the promotion of cardioprotection. This technique introduces a new pathway for treating CVD. The substances above elicit their advantageous effects by mitigating the impact of OS via initiating Nrf2 signaling. The primary objective of our study is to provide significant insights that can contribute to advancing treatment methods, including natural products. These strategies aim to tackle the obstacles associated with CVDs.

Cardiovascular challenges in the era of antiretroviral therapy for AIDS/ HIV: A comprehensive review of research advancements, pathophysiological insights, and future directions.

Cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary heart disease, is becoming more common among those living with HIV. Individuals with HIV face an increased susceptibility to myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack, as compared to the general population in developed countries. This heightened risk can be attributed mainly to the presence of effective antiretroviral drugs and the resulting longer lifespan. Some cardiac issues linked to non-antiretroviral medications, including myocarditis, endocarditis, cardiomyopathy with dilation, pulmonary hypertension, and oedema of the heart, may affect those not undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART). Impaired immune function and systemic inflammation are significant contributors to this phenomenon after initiating highly aggressive antiretroviral treatment ART. It is becoming more challenging to determine the best course of treatment for HIV-associated cardiomyopathy due to new research suggesting that protease inhibitors might have a negative impact on the development of HF. Currently, the primary focus of research on ART medications is centered on the cardiovascular adverse effects of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and protease inhibitors. This review paper thoroughly evaluates the advancements achieved in cardiovascular disease research and explores the potential implications for prospects. Additionally, it considers the field's future prospects while examining how ART might be altered and its clinical applications.

Development and Characterization of Thiolated Cyclodextrin-Based Nanoparticles for Topical Delivery of Minoxidil.

PURPOSE: The aim of this research was to prepare adhesive nanoparticles for the topical application of Minoxidil (MXD). METHODS: Thiolated ß-CDs were prepared via conjugation of cysteamine with oxidized CDs. MXD was encapsulated within thiolated and unmodified ß-CDs. Ionic gelation method was used to prepare nanoparticles (Thio-NP and blank NP) of CDs with chitosan. Nanoparticles were analyzed for size and zetapotential. Inclusion complexes were characterized via FTIR. Drug dissolution studies were carried out. An in vitro adhesion study over human hair was performed. An in vivo skin irritation study was performed. Ex vivo drug uptake was evaluated by using a Franz diffusion cell. RESULTS: Thiolated ß-CDs presented 1804.68 ± 25 µmol/g thiol groups and 902.34 ± 25 µmol/g disulfide bonds. Nanoparticles displayed particle sizes within a range of 231 ± 07 nm to 354 ± 13 nm. The zeta potential was in the range of -8.1 ± 02 mV, +16.0 ± 05 mV. FTIR analyses confirmed no interaction between the excipients and drug. Delayed drug release was observed from Thio-NP. Thio-NP retained over hair surfaces for a significantly longer time. Similarly, drug retention was significantly improved. Thio-NP displayed no irritation over rabbit skin. CONCLUSION: Owing to the above results, nanoparticles developed with MXD-loaded thiolated ß-CDs might be a potential drug delivery system for topical scalp diseases.

Formulation and characterization of nanoparticle-based ethinyl estradiol transdermal drug delivery system for contraception and menopausal disorders.

Nanoparticles based TDDS was employed to overcome the adverse effects of oral contraceptives. A transdermal patch of Ethinyl Estradiol (EE) nanoparticles was aimed to provide sustained release of the drug and lower dosage frequency. The patch was designed with Eudragit-based polymeric films or EE-loaded chitosan nanoparticles poured onto a polyvinyl alcohol backing membrane, with a non-ionic surfactant (span-20) and a plasticizer (n-butyl phthalate) using solvent evaporation method. Nanoparticles were analyzed for their size, morphology, yield and entrapment efficiency. The patches were analyzed for their folding endurance, thickness, weight, drug content, in vitro release pattern, FTIR and DSC. All patches were transparent, having a uniform, smooth surface. The folding endurance of all the patches indicated optimum flexibility. In vitro, release and Ex-Vivo permeation studies showed that F1 containing nanoparticles exhibited the most optimum drug release in 72h (97.6%). The release pattern demonstrated was diffusion controlled. FTIR, DSC studies indicated no interaction between drug and excipients. The accelerated stability studies were performed at 40ᵒC and 70% relative humidity for six months. The product was found stable. The developed patches of EE nanoparticles were expected to improve patient compliance by reducing dose frequency and provide optimum therapy by sustained drug release for contraception.

Psychological resilience in athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative insight.

This study employs a qualitative research methodology to comprehensively investigate the psychological resilience of athletes impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through purposeful sampling, a diverse group of athletes representing various sports, competitive levels, and geographic locations was selected, ensuring a holistic exploration of their experiences. Data collection centered on in-depth interviews, utilizing a semi-structured approach guided by predetermined open-ended questions. Ethical standards were meticulously upheld, with informed consent obtained from all participants, and strict measures in place to safeguard their confidentiality and anonymity. Prior to data collection, pilot testing of interview questions was conducted to enhance their clarity and appropriateness. Subsequently, data analysis involved the meticulous transcription of field-notes and audio-recordings into protocols and transcripts, followed by systematic coding facilitated by qualitative data management software. To enhance research rigor, strategies including reflexivity, member-checking, and collaborative coding were embraced. This comprehensive methodology facilitated a deep and nuanced exploration of athletes' experiences, perceptions, and coping strategies during the pandemic, ultimately contributing valuable insights to the study of psychological resilience in sports. The findings shed light on the challenges athletes faced, the support systems and personal attributes that fostered resilience, and the role of well-being practices like mindfulness and self-care in enhancing psychological resilience. The implications of this research extend to proactive strategies for sports organizations and stakeholders, fostering a culture of resilience, and empowering athletes to thrive in the face of adversity, ultimately promoting their long-term psychological well-being.