bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet Gaming Disorder And Internet Addiction: Comparing Italian And Migrant Children And Adolescents
Authors: Valtolina Giulio , Boerchi Diego , Milani Luca
Published: February 2022

The DSM-5 has included Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) as a potential new behavioral addiction related to some developmental risks such as depression, anxiety, attention disorders, social phobia, behavioral disorders, low academic performance. IGD stemmed from the previously proposed diagnosis of Internet Addiction (IA), which was also considered a behavioral addiction related to the Web's uncontrolled use and was correlated with maladaptive developmental outcomes. Literature shows a specific higher vulnerability of the migrant population to behavioral addictions – particularly gambling. Given this vulnerability and the amplitude of Italy's migration phenomenon, it is important to extend the knowledge about the risk of gaming and internet addiction to migrant adolescents and children in Italian schools. Thus, the aims of the present study are 1) to test the differences between Italian and migrant students in terms of problematic use of videogames and the Internet, and 2) to identify any risk factors predicting the emergence of problematic involvement in videogame activities and Internet use. We administered a survey to 532 students (64.5% females), aged between 9 and 20 years old (M = 15.80; DS = 2.16), attending secondary schools of first and second grade in 4 Italian cities. 9.7% of the students declared that they do not have Italian citizenship. The survey comprised specific instruments to measure Internet Gaming Disorder and Internet Addiction, respectively the VGA Questionnaire (VGA) and the Internet Addiction Test (IAT). Other instruments measured two areas of adaptation that literature highlighted as correlated to the two disorders: Coping strategies (assessed by the Children's Coping Strategies Checklist – Revised 1; CCSC-R1) and Interpersonal relations (measured by Interpersonal Relationship Test; TRI). Results indicate that the migrant condition can be a risk factor for IGD and IA, mainly when associated with avoidant coping strategies. Better interpersonal relations with female and male peers can be potential protective factors that counterbalance addiction risk. Implications point to fostering inclusion interventions aimed to migrant children to reduce the risk of gaming addiction in this specific group.
Comparative genomics of the human genome and six bat genomes using AI: Mb-level CpG and TFBS islands
Authors: Iwasaki Yuki , Ikemura Toshimichi , Wada Kennosuke , Wada Yoshiko , Abe Takashi
Published: February 2022

BackgroundEmerging infectious disease RNA viruses, such as the SARS-CoV-2 and Ebola viruses, are thought to rely on bats as their natural reservoir hosts. Since these zoonotic viruses pose a great threat to humans, it should be important to characterize the bat genome from multiple perspectives. Unsupervised artificial intelligence (AI) methods extracting novel information from big sequence data without prior knowledge or particular models are highly desirable for obtaining unexpected insights. We previously established a batch-learning self-organizing map (BLSOM) of the oligonucleotide composition that reveals novel genome characteristics from big sequence data.ResultsIn this study, using the oligonucleotide BLSOM, we conducted a comparative genome study of humans and bats. BLSOM is an explainable-type AI that reveals the diagnostic oligonucleotides contributing to sequence clustering (self-organization). When the unsupervised AI reveals unexpected and/or characteristic features, these features can be studied in more detail via the much simpler and more direct standard distribution map method. Based on this combined strategy, we identified the Mb-level enrichment of CG (Mb-level CpG islands) around the termini of bat long-scaffold sequences. In addition, a class of CG-containing oligonucleotides were enriched also in the centromeric and pericentromeric regions of human chromosomes. Oligonucleotides longer than tetranucleotides often represent binding motifs for a wide variety of proteins, e.g., transcription factor binding sequences (TFBSs). By analyzing penta- and hexanucleotide compositions, we observed the evident enrichment of a wide range of hexanucleotide TFBSs in centromeric and pericentromeric heterochromatin regions on all human chromosomes.ConclusionTFBSs which are enriched in centromere and pericentromeric heterochromatin regions, are thought to play an important role in the formation of nuclear 3D structures. Our AI-based analysis should help us to understand differential features of nuclear 3D structures of the human and bat genomes.
Effect of Urbanization on the Dynamics of Ecosystem Services: An Analysis for Decision Making in Kolkata Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Das Subhasis , Shit Pravat Kumar , Bera Biswajit , Adhikary Partha Pratim
Published: February 2022

The structural strength and functional diversity of ecosystems were maintained by natural process, where the living organisms interact with their physical environment and exchange materials between them. Land use and land cover change exert significant impact on ecosystem services and their values, especially in the urban agglomerations. Kolkata urban agglomeration of India has been selected to determine the causes in changes of ecosystem services under present and projected land use land cover scenario. Land use land cover maps of 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 were prepared by support vector machine method, using LANDSAT satellite imageries and projected maps were produced with the help of CA-Markov model. Built-up land was increased by 65.39% during 1990–2020 and it will be increased by 76.88% during the period 1990–2040. Built-up lands are mainly encroaching crop lands and wetlands. The ecosystem service value will be decreased from $38486.49 during 1990 to $28060.79 during 2040. The rate of change of ecosystem service value was -27.09% during the same period. In Kolkata urban agglomeration, area under very low ecosystem service value will be increased from 16.60 to 58.88% during 1990-2040; whereas, the area coverage of very high ecosystem service value will be decreased from 2.69 to 2.35% during the same period. Water supply contributed highest ecosystem service value followed by disturbance regulation and nutrient cycling; whereas, lacking in soil formation, pollination and biological control services contributed lowest. The study will contribute for decision making process in sustainable management of natural resources and also provide some useful guidelines for the improvement of ecological quality in the study landscape.
Reduced-Port Robotic Radical Gastrectomy For Gastric Cancer: A Single-Institute Experience
Authors: Wang Chih-Yuan , Chen Yu-Hsien , Huang Ting-Shuo
Published: February 2022

Background: Reduced-port gastrectomy can potentially reduce postoperative pain and improve recovery time. However, the inherent difficulty caused by the narrow manipulation angle makes this operation difficult, especially during lymph node dissection. The intrinsic advantage of the da Vinci robotic system might offset this difficulty, maintaining adequate surgical quality with risks of surgical complications equal to those by the conventional four-port robotic approach. The aim of this study was to compare the reduced-port robotic approach and the conventional four-port approach in terms of postoperative pain and short-term surgical outcomes. Methods: All patients who underwent radical gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection using the da Vinci Xi robotic system, including reduced-port or conventional four-port approach, were analyzed retrospectively. The primary outcome was postoperative pain assessed using the numerical rating scale (NRS). The secondary outcomes were the number of harvested lymph nodes, operation time, length of hospital stay, and postoperative 30-day complications. Results: Postoperative NRS revealed no significant difference between the reduced-port and conventional four-port groups (postoperative day (POD) 1: 4.5 vs 3, p = 0.047, POD 3: 4 vs 3, p = 0.178). After propensity score matching, there were no significant differences in the median number of harvested lymph nodes, operation time, and length of hospital stay between the groups. The postoperative 30-day complications were more frequent in the conventional four-port group, but there was no significant difference compared with the reduced-port group after propensity score matching. Conclusion: Reduced-port robotic gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection was not inferior to the conventional four-port robotic operation in terms of postoperative pain, surgical quality, and short-term outcomes. The surgeon should achieve a balance between cosmetic concerns and patient safety.
Excess Weight Loss after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: The Trend and Associated Factors for weight loss
Authors: Tizmaghz Adnan , Eghbali Foolad , Hosseini Bahareh , Pazouki Abdolreza , Hajmohammadi Amir , Karami Reza
Published: February 2022

Background Historically Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) has been considered the gold standard of bariatric surgery. This procedure acts as a mixed restrictive and malabsorptive operation.Methods This retrospective cohort study included 410 morbidly obese patients (BMI>40kg/m² or BMI>35kg/m² along with at least one major comorbidity) who underwent primary laparoscopic RYGB surgery from 2009 to 2015 by a single surgery team. The patients were aged 18 years and older with at least 12 months follow-up with alimentary and biliopancreatic limb length of 150 and 50cm respectively. Percent excess weight loss (%EWL), Percent excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) and comorbidity resolution were compared in short-term (12 months) and mid-term (12-60 months) follow-up.Results The mean±SD age, weight, and BMI at surgery were 40.1±10.58 years, 123.32±19.88 kg, and 45.78±5.54 kg/m2, respectively, and 329 (80%) were female and 62 (15%) had T2DM. Mean±SD %EWL and %EBMIL was significantly higher in T2DM patients 9 months postoperatively and thereafter. Age at surgery, lower educational level, being single, and female patients had no significant effect on %EWL and %EBMIL during long-term follow-up. Patients with lower BMI at surgery (<50kg/m²) and non-diabetic patients had a significantly lower %EWL and %EBMIL over a short- and long-term follow-up (P<0.001).Conclusions Bariatric surgery remains the most efficacious and durable weight loss treatment. However, a proportion of patients will experience unfavorable weight loss following bariatric surgery.
Effect of Equal Channel Angular Pressing on the Properties of Rolled Commercial Purity A1100 Aluminum
Authors: boussaada mohammed abdelkrim , MEBAREK ABDELMALEK , BOUASLA ABDELAZIZ , ZAAF MOHAMED
Published: February 2022

Commercial grade A1100 aluminum specimens, widely used in deep drawing, is subjected to rolling followed by severe plastic deformation by Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP). The ECAP die is designed and built in 42CrMo4 steel, hyper-hardened. It has a bent channel with an internal angle 𝜑=115° and an external angle ψ = 8°. The used deformation paths are the conventional route A as well as a non-conventional route noted Ci. The ECAP process is carried out at room temperature. The lowering speed of the movable crosshead of the press is 0.5 mm/s. The rolled and then extruded aluminum properties are studied by means of micro-hardness measurements, tensile tests and X-ray diffraction. Hardening is observed from the first pass, for both routes. The ultimate tensile strength presents a small variation for route A and decrease for route Ci. The elongation to failure increase for both A and Ci routes. The average grain diameter is on the order of 2,9µm after rolling and 1,3 µm after ECAP process in one pass.
PDGF-BB-Derived Supramolecular Hydrogel for Promoting Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Jian Ke , Yang Chenghao , Li Tingting , Shen Jun , Wei Jiaying , Yang Zhimou , Yuan Dan , Zhao Mingyi , Shi Junfeng
Published: February 2022

Chronic wounds represent a major challenge to the present healthcare system. In recent decades, many topical therapies have been investigated for the treatment of chronic wounds, including different types of wound dressings, antimicrobial agents, and cell therapy. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) plays an important role in wound healing and has been approved for treatment of wounds related to diabetes mellitus. However, the high cost and short retention time of PDGF protein have limited its wide application. To overcome this challenge, we designed a PDGF-mimicking peptide by connecting PDGF epitope VRKIEIVRKK and self-assembling motif derived from -amyloid peptide. The resultant peptide can self-assemble into a fibril-rich network and leads to supramolecular hydrogelation with good stability. The hydrophilic epitope can be exposed on the surface of nanofibrils, which might contribute to the binding and activation of PDGF receptors. The forming hydrogel is able to induce the growth and migration of vascular endothelial cells and promote the formation of vascular branches. In the full-thickness skin wounds of healthy mice, after the application of the hydrogel, the density of neovascularization marked by CD31 was greater than that in the control group on Day 3. Larger collagen deposition and a thicker epidermis were observed on Day 12. These results demonstrate that the hydrogel can stimulate collagen deposition and angiogenesis, enhance skin regeneration, and show an excellent therapeutic effect. Taken together, this work not only provides new insight into the design of bioactive peptides but also offers a promising biomaterial for wound healing.
On the function of lead (Pb) in machining brass alloys
Authors: Johansson Jakob , Alm Per , M’Saoubi Rachid , Malmberg Per , Ståhl Jan-Eric , Bushlya Volodymyr
Published: February 2022

Lead has traditionally been added to brass alloys to achieve high machinability, but the exact mechanisms at work are still debated. Lead-free brass alternatives could be developed if these mechanisms were better understood. Accordingly, machinability characteristics were investigated for two brass alloys with similar mechanical properties and phase composition, but with very different machining characteristics because one has 3 wt.% lead (CuZn38Pb3) while the other has only 0.1 wt.% (CuZn42). The effect of the lead was investigated using infrared temperature measurement, electron microscopy, secondary ion mass spectroscopy, quick-stop methods, and high-speed filming. Neither melting of lead nor its deposition on the tool rake surface takes place during machining, thus confirming its limited lubrication and tribological effects. Instead, the main role of lead is to promote discontinuous chip formation. Lead deforms to flake-like shapes that act as crack initiation points when the workpiece material passes through the primary deformation zone. This effect prevents the development of stable tool–chip contact, thus lowering cutting forces, friction, and process temperature.
p75NTR Regulates Morphine-induced CPP and Related mRNA Expression in Adolescent Mice through Trk Dependent Pathway
Authors: Zhang Qian , Li Jiaqi , Wu Dong , Zhang Xiulei , Xiao Hai , Zhang Yuwei , Qin Litao , Liao Shixiu
Published: February 2022

Drug abuses in adolescents have become a major public health concern, and one of the major abusive drugs is morphine. p75NTR is an age-related receptor that can mediate synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. Previous studies also show that its signaling pathway is involved in some drug-taking behaviors. Using morphine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) of mice, the present study aims to analyze changes of p75NTR in the hippocampus. As the expression and function of p75NTR can be regulated by the activities of Trk receptors, we also aim to detect whether the activation of Trk can regulate changes in expressions of p75NTR and acquisitions of morphine-induced CPP. Our results show that the expression of p75NTR in the hippocampus is significantly increased in the morphine-induced CPP of adolescent mice, but not in that of adult mice. It can be explained by that the p75NTR plays a more important role in the brains of adolescent mice. We also find a Trk phosphorylation inhibitor, K252a, can reduce the preference values of CPP in adolescent mice, as well as attenuating the mRNA expression of p75NTR and its downstream molecular, CDC42, in the hippocampus of adolescent mice. The present study suggests that the p75NTR may be an age-related regulator of morphine abuse, and its function may be regulated by the activity of Trk.
A High-Fat Diet Enriched with Fish Oil Affects Metabolic Pathways in The Hypothalamus of Rats: A Proteomic Approach
Authors: de Souza Adriana Pereira , Pedroso Amanda Paula , de Andrade Maria Claudina Camargo , Telles Mônica Marques , Boldarine Valter Tadeu , Oyama Lila Missae , Tashima Alexandre Keiji , Ribeiro Eliane Beraldi
Published: February 2022

Background: Fatty acids of the n-3 series are recognized as a healthy type of fat but the effects of excess n-3 consumption have not been fully explored. The hypothalamus is a key site in the control of energy homeostasis and a better understanding of the effects of dietary challenges on this brain site is necessary.Objective: To evaluate whether the long-term intake of a high-fat diet enriched fish-oil, rich in n-3 fat, modify the proteins content of the hypothalamus.Methods: Male rats received for 8 weeks either a Control normolipidic diet or a hyperlipidic Fish oil diet. The hypothalami were dissected and processed for proteomic analysis, performed by LC-MS/MS. False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction for multiple testing was performed. Enriched pathways were determined using the Panther online platform.Results: Twenty-nine proteins were significantly altered between the Control and the Fish groups, of which 15 were down-regulated and 14 were up-regulated in the Fish group. Pathway-enrichment analysis showed that 10 of those proteins were related to “Metabolism of Carbohydrate” and “TCA Cycle and Respiratory Electron Transport” pathways. Of these, 7 proteins were upregulated (Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B1; Aspartate aminotransferase, mitochondrial; Glucose-6-phosphate isomerase; Malate dehydrogenase mitochondrial; L-lactate dehydrogenase A chain; Dihydrolipoyllysine-residue acetyltransferase component of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, mitochondrial; Alpha-enolase) and 3 were downregulated (Phosphoglycerate mutase 1; NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] flavoprotein 2, mitochondrial; NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] 1 alpha subcomplex subunit 9, mitochondrial). Conclusions: The chronic intake of a hyperlipidic diet rich in fish oil led to modifications on the expression of several hypothalamic proteins related to metabolic pathways. There are indications of possible pro-inflammatory activation and impairment of respiratory chain Complex 1 function, probably due to the excess fat content of the diet. Also, a protective role played by the type of fat was suggested by the findings indicating possible decrease of reactive oxygen species production, maintenance of NADH delivery to the respiratory chain, and production of anorexigenic signals. The results suggest that, although n-3 fat has recognized healthy properties, its consumption in excess affects the hypothalamus with deleterious effects. Further studies are necessary to verify these effects.
Differential Expression of Ago2-Mediated MicroRNA Signaling in Adipose Tissue is Associated with Food Induced Obesity
Authors: Zhang Hansi , Qiao Liang , Liu Xiaoxuan , Han Xiaojing , Kang Jing , Liu Yanli , Lin Juntang , Yan Xin
Published: February 2022

Background: Obesity is strongly linked to the dysregulation of adipose tissues. Previous studies have reported that the roles of Ago2 mediated microRNA signaling in the regulation of metabolic homeostasis and obesity. However, it is unclear whether this function extends to in adipose tissue. Here we sought to further understand the role of Ago2 in the adiposity during obesity.Methods: We first analyzed the food induced obese mouse models for alterations in body weight, glucose and energy homeostasis, subsequently characterized the expression of Ago2-miR148-AMPKα signaling pathway. Finally, hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to analyze the morphological changes in adipose pads and liver. Results: Here we show that high-fat diet feeding mice exhibited an increase in body mass alongside systematic insulin resistance and altered rate of energy expenditure. Interestingly, Ago2 expression is associated with obesity and increased in adipose tissues. Moreover, increase of Ago2 inhibited the expression of AMPKα by promoting its targeting by miR-148a, the most abundant microRNA in the adipose tissues.Conclusion: Those results suggested that Ago2-miR-148a-AMPKα signaling pathway play an important function in the developing obesity and adiposity and will further provide basic research data for the potential clinic treatment of obesity.
An Open-Source Non-Contact Automatic Alcohol Gel Dispenser by using Embedded Real-Time Systems
Authors: Benmahdjoub Mohammed Amin , Mezouar Abdelkader , Bossche Alex Van den
Published: February 2022

This paper is intended to solve a detail in the precautions to avoid the spreading of the coronavirus. Indeed, spreading by contact could lead to a new outbreak of the epidemic and a return of coronavirus. Two applied means to avoid the spread of COVID-19 are wearing masks and using an alcohol gel dispenser. In this paper, a non-contact automatic alcohol gel dispensed (AAGD) is proposed. This device is based on microcontroller device “Arduino Nano”, Ultrasonic sensor “HC-SR05” and servo-motor of 1 Nm. It can be used and integrated in the schools, markets, and different companies. In this focus, the AAGD works without touching by hand that could have touched the nose and not cleaned 100%. This property is important in this crisis period, especially since the appearance of coronavirus delta variant. This real-time device is nice to operate, and could be produced using quite common control devices, a too high or complicated technology level would reduce its application.
Determinant factors on the disclosure level of local government’s financial statements in Indonesia
Authors: Aswar Khoirul , Yoga Fanany Alvin , Sumardjo Mahendro , Wiguna Meilda , Hariyani Eka
Published: February 2022

Financial reports are required from both the federal and municipal governments to demonstrate and improve governance and raise openness and accountability of government financial management. This study aims to determine how much mandatory disclosure in local government financial reports can be increased by adding variables such as the number of members in the legislative body, debt, and population, as well as a control variable – the age of the municipal authorities. The population of this study comprised all Local Government Financial Statements (LGFS) in Indonesia and the Supreme Audit Agency’s financial statement auditing requirements as of 2018. The paper adopted a purposive sample technique; 248 local governments in Indonesia were sampled. This study tested hypotheses using multiple regression analysis with the SPSS Version 25 application. The findings show that the number of members in the legislative body, debt, and total population do not affect the level of LGFS disclosure; however, the level of welfare does. This study should provide information that can help increase LGFS disclosure in a way that is valuable for local governments. Utilization of information technology in meeting social demands more efficiently and effectively is one of the strategies for local governments in carrying out financial statement disclosures.
ANALYSIS OF SUPPLIER SELECTION CRITERIA USING FUZZY AHP IN TEXTILE INDUSTRY IN INDONESIA
Authors: Sanny Lim , Yuliana Yuliana
Published: February 2022

The purposes of this study are to determine the order of criteria and sub-criteria in supplier selection process by measuring the weight of each criteria and sub-criteria to find out the best supplier in each TPT industry sector for the company which become the subject of this study. The technique of collecting data is through questionnaire distribution to 5 respondents who are the experts of the company. The collected data were analysed using Fuzzy AHP approach. The result of this research will assist in giving beneficial solutions in decision making, especially in selecting the best suppliers based on supplier selection criteria and sub-criteria to supports an excellent supply chain management.
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON BUSINESS VALUE AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF ORGANIC SKIN CARE BRANDS IN THAILAND
Authors: Boonpreda Napasorn , Ruan Ximing
Published: February 2022

The adoption of social media in promoting cosmetic brands had changed the traditional approach to creating value for consumers, which subsequently improve the firms’ financial performance. With the organic skincare brands, the research empirically examined to what extent and aspects the business value is shaped by social media promotions. The research findings from the quantitative analysis suggest that the business value could be created through curation, collaboration, and creation in social media marketing.
Perspectives and Prospects on mRNA Vaccine Development for
COVID-19
Authors: Jin Lihui , Han Zhenyuan , Zhao Pengjun , Sun Kun
Published: February 2022

Background:

The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic,
since first reported in Wuhan, has inspired worldwide efforts to develop effective
COVID-19 vaccination strategies. mRNA vaccines encoding COVID-19 antigens have
emerged prominantlyin this global race due to their high effectiveness and simple manufacturing
process. Notably, two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2,
have survived in clinical trials and been authorized for emergency use across
variouscountries.

Recent advances on mRNA vaccine development for COVID-19 are discussed
in this perspective, including sequence design, chemical modification, manufacturing
process, and in vivo delivery. Phase I to IV clinical trials of mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2
are then summarized, respectively.

Perspective:

Using mRNA vaccines is a promising strategy to achieve mass vaccination
in the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that future studies of mRNA vaccine technology
will overcome existing limitations and help people cope with COVID-19.
Stereochemical Applications of	Carbon-Carbon Coupling Constants in Organic Chemistry
Authors: Krivdin Leonid B. , Zinchenko Sergei V.
Published: February 2022

Basic features of carbon-carbon spin- spin coupling constants including experimental techniques, theory and computation along with their general trends and stereochemical behavior are reviewed. Special attention is focused upon bond and dihedral angle dependences, orientation of the terminal substituent, through-space and non-bonded interactions, lone pair effects and configuration of the anomeric center in carbohydrates.
Cyclohexanone Monooxygenase: A Useful Reagent for Asymmetric Baeyer-Villiger Reactions
Authors: Stewart Jon D.
Published: February 2022

Acinetobacter sp. NCIB 9871 cyclohexanone monooxygenase catalyzes the Baeyer-Villiger oxidations of a wide variety of ketones to the corresponding lactones, many of which are valuable chiral building blocks. This enzyme accepts cyclobutanones, cyclopentanones, cyclohexanones and several bicyclic ketones as substrates. In most cases, the lactones are produced in high yields and optical purities. This review summarizes all of the published Baeyer-Villiger oxidations catalyzed by cyclohexanone monooxygenase published before mid-1997. An important recent finding is
that the enzyme is very proficient at kinetically resolving racemic 2- and 3-substituted cyclohexanones. This provides one of the simplest routes to optically pure substituted £­ caprolactones. Unfortunately, the need to handle the pathogenic Acinetobacter strain as well as the time and expense necessary to purify the enzyme and regenerate the reduced nicotinamide cofactor have hindered the acceptance of cyclohexanone monooxygenase as a synthetic reagent. To overcome these problems, the enzyme has been expressed in baker's yeast so that whole yeast cells can be used for Baeyer-Villiger oxidations in place of the purified enzyme or the Acinetobacter cells. The engineered yeast approach requires no biochemical expertise or equipment beyond that found in a normal laboratory. Finally, active site models of the enzyme are discussed. These allow one to predict the outcome of proposed reactions based on the results summarized here.
The Development of Zinc and Zinc/Copper Reagents for the Synthesis of Enantiomerically Pure Amino Acids
Authors: Gair Susan , Jackson Richard F.W.
Published: February 2022

The application of organometallic chemistry to the synthesis of highly functionalised target compounds has seen very significant advances in the last 15 years. In particular, the realisation that carbon-zinc bonds are compatible with many functional groups has transformed the general perception of the utility of organozinc compounds. This review describes the development of synthetic methods for the preparation of a wide variety of unnatural amino acids using organozinc and zinc/copper reagents derived from simple, readily available amino acids such as serine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid. In the case of serine, standard protection of the amino acid functionality, followed by conversion of the free alcohol into an iodide, yields a stable crystalline compound that may be converted into the corresponding alkylzinc iodide by treatment with suitably activated zinc metal. This alkylzinc iodide, formed without loss of stereochemical integrity, can react under palladium catalysis with many electrophiles (including iodoaromatics and acid chlorides) to give a wide variety of useful products. Examples from several other laboratories of the applications of the method to the preparation of phenylalanine derivatives are discussed. Extension of this approach to alkyl iodides derived from aspartic acid and glutamic acid leads to a further array of a-, p- and y-amino acids. Some key observations about the stability of these reagents, especially those bearing a P-amido group, have lead to the optimisation of the process, specifically in terms of the use of dipolar aprotic solvents.
Antifungal Metabolites from Marine Sponges
Authors: Li Hong-yu , Matsunaga Shigeki , Fusetani Nobuhiro
Published: February 2022

Ease in collecting relatively large amounts of diverse species together with a high incidence of active samples has made marine sponges a
good source of antifungal compounds. Although classical antimicrobial screening is now replaced by more disease-oriented sophisticated screening, many antifungal compounds with a wide structural diversity have been reported from marine sponges in the long history of the search for these compounds. In this review we describe antifungal compounds isolated from marine sponges since 1987 according to their structural types.
Small Molecule Recognition: Solid Angles Surface Representation and Molecular Shape Complementarity
Authors: Norel R. , Wolfson H. J. , Nussinov R.
Published: February 2022

Here we examine the recognition of small molecules by their protein and DNA receptors. We focus on two questions: First, how well does the solid angle molecular surface representation perform in fitting together the surfaces of small ligands, such as drugs and cofactors to their corresponding receptors; And second, in particular, to what extent does the shape complementarity play a role in the matching (recognition) process of such small molecules. Both questions have been investigated in protein-protein binding: "Critical Points" based on solid angle calculations have been shown to perform well in the matching of large protein molecules. They are robust, may be few in numbers, and capture satisfactorily the molecular shape. Shape complementarity has been shown to be a critical factor in protein­ protein recognition, but has not been examined in drug-receptor recognition.
To probe these questions, here we dock 185 receptor-small ligand molecule pairs. We find that such a representation performs adequately for the smaller ligands too, and that shape complementarity is also observed. These issues are important, given the large databases of drugs that routinely have to be scanned to find candidate, lead compounds.
We have been able to carry out such large scale docking experiments owing to our efficient, computer-vision based docking algorithms. Its fast CPU matching times, on the order of minutes on a PC, allows such large scale docking experiments.
A Multiple Electrospray Interface for Parallel Mass Spectrometric Analyses of Compound Libraries
Authors: Wang T. , Zeng L. , Cohen J. , Kassel Daniel B.
Published: February 2022

A parallel spray interface for mass spectrometry is described. This new electrospray interface enables effluent flow streams from an array of HPLC columns to be sampled independently and sequentially on a chromatographic time-scale. Unlike our previously reported parallel LC-MS interface, which incorporated a dual-sheath spray interface accommodating up to four flow streams that are sampled simultaneously, this new interface permits up to four columns to be sampled sequentially by means of a stepping motor and rotating plate assembly. Effluent flow streams from an array of four HPLC columns are connected to a parallel arrangement of electrospray needles co-axial to the mass spectrometer entrance aperture. Within the needle assembly, the individual spray tips are oriented in a circular array, where each needle is situated
90 degrees relative to one another for four-column operation. An eight-column system is
described with needles spaced at 45 degree intervals. In between the needle assembly and the mass spectrometer entrance aperture is a Teflon disk with a through-hole that is mounted to a stepping motor assembly. By precisely controlling the stepping of the motor assembly, it is possible to "sample" each of the spray positions multiple times per second. By operating the quadrupole mass spectrometer in the single ion monitoring (SIM) mode, it was possible to acquire data at each of the spray positions during the course of the elution of compounds from the HPLC column array while maintaining both good sensitivity and peak shape. Preliminary results suggest this technique will be useful for high throughput combinatorial library analysis and profiling.
Voxel-Based Intraclass Correlation Coefficient to Evaluate the Inter-
Scanner Reproducibility of Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping Over the
Deep Gray Matter Structure at 3.0T MR
Authors: Chen Zhiye , Meng Qinglin , Liu Mengqi
Published: February 2022

Background:

The quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) technique can be used to
quantitatively evaluate the cerebral iron deposition of the deep gray matter structure (DGM) in clinical
practice. However, it could be significantly important to assess the reproducibility of the susceptibility
values at different magnetic resonance (MR) scanners before the QSM technique can be widely used in
clinical applications.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the reproducibility of susceptibility value of the deep gray matter
structure (DGM) at two different MR systems with the same magnetic strength.

Methods:

Raw data of 21 normal subjects (M/F = 7/14, median age 29 (21, 63) years) were acquired
from a 3D multi-echo enhanced gradient recalled echo sequence at two different 3.0T MR systems, and
STI software was used to reconstruct the magnetic susceptibility images. Brain structural images were
used to be coregistered with magnitude images to generate normalized parameters and normalized
susceptibility images. Voxel-based intraclass correlation coefficient (VB-ICC) was used to evaluate the
reproducibility of susceptibility value of DGM at different 3.0T MR systems.

Results:

DGM with ICC > 0.75 is located in the bilateral posterior putamen and globus pallidus, bilateral
red nuclei, and left dental nucleus. DGM with 0.6 < ICC < 0.75 is mainly located in the bilateral
anterior putamen and globus pallidus, the margin of the bilateral red nuclei, right dental nucleus, and
the margin of the left dental nucleus. DGM with 0.4 < ICC < 0.6 is located in anterior parts of the bilateral
putamen, bilateral globus pallidus and substantia nigra, the margin of the bilateral dental nuclei,
and the inferior part of the right dental nucleus.

Conclusion:

DGM presented regional dependent reproducibility of susceptibility value at two different
3.0T MR systems based on VB-ICC analysis.
Application of Selenium Nanoparticles in Localized Drug Targeting for Cancer
Therapy
Authors: Nath Dipak , Kaur Loveleen , Sohal Harvinder Singh , Malhi Dharambeer Singh , Garg Sonali , Thakur Deepa
Published: February 2022

Background:

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have gained a place in the biomedical field; they serve as
chemotherapeutic agents for targeted drug delivery due to their capacity to exert distinct mechanisms of action on
cancer and normal cells. The principle behind these mechanisms is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS),
which accelerates apoptosis via the dysfunction of various pathways. SeNPs, when used in higher concentrations,
induce toxicity; however, conjugation and surface functionalization are some techniques available to ameliorate their
toxic nature as well as enhance their anticancer activity.

Objectives:

The primary goal of this analysis is to provide a thorough and systematic investigation into the use of various
SeNPs in localized drug targeting for cancer therapy. This has been achieved by citing examples of numerous
SeNPs and their use as a drug targeting agent for cancer therapy.

Methods:

All relevant data and information about the various SeNPs for drug targeting in cancer therapy were gathered from various databases, including Science Direct, PubMed, Taylor and Francis imprints, American Chemical Society, Springer, Royal Society of Chemistry, and Google scholar.

Results:

SeNPs are explored due to their better biopharmaceutical properties and cytostatic behavior. Se, as an essential
component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and other seleno-chemical substances, might boost chemotherapeutic
efficacy and protect tissues from cellular damage caused by ROS. SeNPs have the potential to set the stage
for developing new strategies to treat malignancy.

Conclusion:

This review extensively analyzed the anticancer efficacy and functionalization strategies of SeNPs in drug
delivery to cancer cells. In addition, this review highlights the mechanism of action of drug-loaded SeNPs to suppress
the proliferation of cancer cells in different cell lines.
Regenerative Medicine for Neonatal Wound Healing
Authors: Yeo Genieve Ee Chia , Law Jia Xian
Published: February 2022

Neonates, especially premature newborns, have delicate skin that is susceptible to injury. Furthermore, they may acquire congenital skin diseases such as epidermolysis bullosa and aplasia cutis congenita that need prompt and effective treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality. Conventional management involves the covering of wound with a dressing, e.g., hydrogel, hydrocolloid and hydrofiber, which can maintain a moist wound environment that favours wound healing. More recently, regenerative medicine approaches using stem cells and skin substitutes have been introduced as bioactive substitutes to conventional wound dressings to promote and expedite neonatal wound healing, especially the difficulty to treat wounds that are deep and affect a large surface area. To date, the number of preclinical and clinical studies using stem cells and skin substitutes to treat neonatal skin diseases is still very limited. Results from these studies showed that regenerative medicine approaches are safe and effective in promoting the healing of neonatal skin diseases. In future, stem cells and skin substitutes can be combined with gene therapy to ameliorate injured skin in neonatal patients. Besides, cell-free approaches using the stem cell-derived secretome and extracellular vesicles are also gaining popularity as they are associated with fewer risks and hazards compared to stem cells. Herein, we discuss neonatal skin diseases, neonatal wound healing, the standard therapy for neonatal skin diseases, regenerative medicine approaches to promote neonatal skin regeneration and the future perspective of regenerative medicine in neonatal wound care.
WITHDRAWN: Oral toxicity studies of Ethyl Acetate Polyherbal Extract Gel Formulation Obtained from Berries and Flaxseed (EAPEG-BF) in Wistar Rats
Authors: Wal Ankita , Pandey Umeshwar , Wal Pranay , Roohi Tamsheel Fatima
Published: February 2022

Background:

Berries family and flaxseed have been used in ethnomedicinal practice for the treatment of various disorders and different ailments. Despite its beneficial uses, no studies on its polyherbal formulated gel combination toxicity potential have been reported. The present research study was designed to evaluate the acute oral toxicity (14 days) and sub-acute oral toxicity (repeated dose) study (28 days) of ethyl acetate polyherbal extract gel formulation obtained from berries and flaxseed according to OECD TG No. 423 and 407.

Objective:

Male Wistar Rats were taken for toxicological screening of acute and sub-acute oral toxicity as per OECD guidelines of ethyl acetate polyherbal extract gel formulation obtained from berries (Rubus idaeus, Vaccinium macrocarpon, Vaccinium angustifolium, Fragaria x ananassa) and flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) at doses of 500 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg, 2000 mg/kg and 5000 mg/kg b.w. p.o.

Methods:

The rats were orally treated and screened for various behavioural patterns and the clinical signs of toxicity after administration. In sub-acute oral toxicity screening, the highest dose of 5000 mg/kg was selected for repeated dose toxicity for 28 days. The data of the results showed that no toxic symptoms were observed up to the dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight. When testing is required a dose of 5000mg/kg, only one step. There was no toxic symptoms and mortality were observed up to the dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight during the 14 days of the observation. There is no visible change in the food intake and body weight when compared to control.

Results:

The toxicological study revealed that LD50 of the extract formulation gel was greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight p.o.

Conclusion:

In comparison to the control group, there were no significant changes in levels of biochemical parameters and haematological parameters. It was concluded from the data obtained in this research study that though LD50 is greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight; but there was no occurrence of observed adverse effects levels appeared in the liver, kidney, lipid profile and blood parameters.
Tourism in Kosovo at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Millaku Bedri , Dreshaj Adem , Elezaj Elvis , Kuqi Bekë
Published: February 2022

Today tourism is under the influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Which is one of the most important economic activities in the country. Today, tourism has experienced a decline in the economic development of the country. Today, its development is experiencing difficulties in its functioning with a large decline in tourist demand and a greater increase in job losses for all those working in this sector in Kosovo. From this many businesses feel Insecure about the development of activity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The spread of the pandemic has permeated every corner of life, so tourism and hospitality have been damaged by this global economic crisis that has engulfed Kosovo. Based on the situation created, a large number of tourism enterprises have not to function properly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism and hospitality are among the most important activities for the economic development of Kosovo. the development of tourism activities represents a decrease in income if compared to the previous period before the pandemic. The decrease in tourists has led to the deterioration of the situation and economic development of Kosovo. According to the current situation, tourism businesses require support to overcome the crisis in which they are.
Ultrasound-Guide Hydrodissection for Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at Arcade of Struthers
Authors:   Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy Installation. Academic Hospital Gadjah Mada ,Yogyakarta, Indonesia Indonesia, Azza Kamala Kan Nur , Sofwan Said ,   Pain Center, RSI Sultan Agung, Semarang, Indonesia, Wibisono Albertus Sugeng ,   Mitra Keluarga Kemayoran Hospital, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
Published: February 2022

Background: Ulnar nerve entrapment (UNE) causes a tingling or numbness in the fourth and fifth fingers and appears when provoked by bending the elbow. In some severe cases, UNE often causes weakness of the fourth and fifth fingers when grasping or difficulty in coordinating movements. In severe cases, it causes muscle atrophy. Case: A 39-year-old male patient had complaints of pain and numbness in the right arm above the elbow radiating to the fourth and fifth fingers. There is a burning sensation on the right arm when exposed to the wind, with a visual analog scale (VAS) 4-5. Two years ago, the patient had a history of pain in his entire right arm and shoulder blade after falling from a cliff. The patient received treatment with mefenamic acid 500 mg, three times a day, ranitidine 150 mg, two times a day, but the pain did not improve. The patient was diagnosed with ulnar nerve entrapment at the arcade of Struthers. The patient was treated with hydrodissection using ultrasound guidance with 2% lidocaine and steroids (Triamcinolone Acetonide 40 mg/ml). Evaluation on the seven days after hydrodissection, burning sensation at the injection site, tingling and numbness have disappeared. Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided hydrodissection is clinically effective in ulnar nerve entrapment at the arcade of Struthers management.
Sustainable Hate: How Gab Built a Durable “Platform for the People”
Authors: Munn Luke
Published: February 2022

Background: Gab is a social network and a haven for racism, sexism, and extremism. With accessible design and tech-forward products, this “platform for the people” has surged in popularity.

Analysis: This article examines Gab News, analyzing its topics, sources, and platform integration. Its mix of topics creates an expansive world. Its mix of neutral and hyperpartisan sources creates a believable (yet still conservative) world. And its mix of moderate and explicit content establishes a sustainable (yet still hateful) world.

Conclusion: Gab’s strategic communication offers a sustainable foundation for the radical right; understanding this is key for counteracting hate.