bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short flexible peptides linking non-interacting protein domains appear to resist proteolysis by facilitating domain motions that sterically inhibit protease approach
Authors: Waghmare Snehal , Guptasarma Purnananda
Published: June 2023

Our objective in this paper was to identify any general characteristics of linker peptides that could potentially facilitate their escape from proteolytic degradation in fusion proteins, following their placement between two evolutionarily-unrelated, non-interacting, proteolytically-resistant protein domains. We selected Coh2 [an all-beta cohesin domain from C. thermocellum CipA], and BSX [a beta/alpha barrel xylanase domain from Bacillus sp. NG-27], and joined these domains through five different linker peptide sequences: (i) Rigid [3 repeats of N-EAAAK-C], (ii) Flexible [two repeats of N-SGGGG-C], (iii) Nat-Full [42 residues of a Coh2-adjacent linker in CipA], (iv) Nat-Half [a 21 residues-long derivative of Nat-Full] and (v) Nat-Quarter [a 9 residues-long derivative of Nat-Full]. The fusion proteins were produced, and size-exclusion chromatography and denaturing as well as non-denaturing electrophoresis were performed to assess the proteolytic susceptibilities of linkers peptide sequences during (a) storage of the fusion proteins at 4 ᵒC, through proteolysis effected by trace amounts of proteases naturally present in solution, and (b) exposure at room temperature to Subtilisin A, a non-sequence-specific protease. In both cases, proteolytic degradation of the linker was observed in Rigid, Nat-Full, Nat-Half and Nat-Quarter, but not in Flexible. Our further data and analyses suggest that, unlike with the other four other linkers, Flexible is able to escape proteolysis by using its conformational flexibility to facilitate motions in its flanking (non-interacting) domains to deflect approaching proteases, thus allowing such freely-moving domains to sterically protect the linker’s backbone, in ways that would be unlikely if the flanking domains were to interact.
Above and belowground carbon stock of pine plantations and native oak forests coexisting in central Spain
Authors: Bor Bram , Castro-Díez Pilar , Alonso Álvaro
Published: June 2023

Promoting nature-based carbon sinks is one of the effective ways to minimise global warming. Different types of forests, resulting from different land-use histories, may coexist under similar macro-environmental conditions, but their efficiency as carbon sinks may differ. In central Spain, many areas are covered by coexisting patches of monospecific plantations of Pinus halepensis, established since the 1950’s, and native Quercus forest coppiced up to the 1960´s. We aimed to compare the carbon stock between both types of forests, considering both above and belowground compartments, in La Alcarria region (central Spain). In each plot, the diameter at breast height and height were measured in every adult tree, along with shrub cover. Three subsamples of litter and soil were collected per plot. The carbon pool of trees and shrubs was calculated using allometric equations, and for roots, litter, and soil, using the carbon content analysed in a laboratory or obtained from the literature. Carbon pools were analysed separately for three independent variables: plot type (Quercus/Pinus), tree basal area (m2/ha) and slope (°). Overall, Quercus forests stored more carbon than Pinus plantations. The carbon allocation pattern across compartments greatly varied between the two forest types, Pinus plots storing more than half (55%) of its carbon in the aboveground biomass of trees, while Quercus storing more carbon belowground (60%) in roots and soil. We conclude that native Quercus forests are more suitable for a long-term carbon storage, as belowground compartments represent an important part of its carbon storage capacity.
The Genetic Basis of Galactosemia in Iranian Patients: Identification of Twenty Novel Mutations in GALT, GALK1 and GALE Gene
Authors: moody Mehrnoosh , Hosseini Mojgan , Deezagi Abdolkhalegh , Yaghmaei Parichehreh , Houshmand Seyyed Massoud
Published: June 2023

Introduction:
Galactosemia is a metabolic disorders that affects newborns. The enzyme deficiency of GALT, GALK and GALE are implicated with galactose metabolic disorders. The aim of this study is identify the profile mutations of GALT, GALK1 and GALEgene in the Iranian patients with galactosemia.
Method and materials:
In this study, 93 patients who have the diagnosis of galactosemia were investigated for mutation of the GALT, GALK1 and GALE gene. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood via kit and the PCR–Sequencing method was used to identify mutation of the GALT, GALK1 and GALE gene.
Results:
DNA Sequencing analysis identified 9 novel different mutations on the GALT gene, including: five missense mutations p.M177V (3/22%), R204Q (2/69%), L218V (2/15%), T268N (2/15%) and A379T (2/15%) and also, four synonymous mutations c.498T>A, c.876G>A, c.945T>C and c.1128A>T with 0/53% frequency. The most common mutations of GALTgene was p.Q188R (37/7%), K285N (4/9%) and R148W (4/3%). We detected 8 new different mutations on the GALK1 gene, including six missense mutations p.A198V (6/44%), R287C (2/15%), K217R (2/15%), E284D (2/69%), R228H (2/15%) and A387T (2/15%) two synonymous mutations c.840 C›T and c.1152C>T with 0/53% frequency. Also, in this study we identified 3 new synonymous mutations on the GALE gene including: c.957G›A (1/07%), c.879G›C (0/53%) and c.285C>T (1/07%).
Conclusion:
Identification of mutations involved in the development of galactosemia and designing a suitable diagnostic panel based on the detected mutations in GALT, GALK1 and GALE genes, can play an important role in neonatal screening program and early diagnosis.
Electrocardiogram Signal Classification Based on Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Ahmed Amira
Published: June 2023

One of the most often used diagnostic tools in medicine and healthcare is the electrocardiogram (ECG). When it comes to healthcare prediction problems requiring ECG data, deep learning techniques seem promising. This paper aims to apply deep learning techniques to classify MIT-BIH arrhythmias on publicly available datasets. A new electrocardiogram classification for employing a spectrogram of signals algorithm is proposed. The proposed model depends on convolutional neural networks to automatically learn the characteristics of features and has used convolutional neural networks to detect normal and abnormal ECG heartbeats, with an average detection accuracy of 99.22%.
Solid state synthesis of ternary semiconductor zinc titanate-metal organic framework composite as photoanode material: Electronic properties and photovoltaic performance
Authors: Santhiya S. , Greena Mary , P Ram Kumar , X Sahaya Shajan , P Sri Renganathan
Published: June 2023

A ternary semiconductor zinc titanate (ZT)-metal-organic framework (MOF) composite is synthesized for photovoltaic applications to overcome the shortcomings of both materials when they behave separately including electronic conductivity and specific surface area. As a result, ZTMOF composite is synthesized and employed in making photoanode for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The amount of MOF in the composite varies from 0.5, 1 and 2%. The chemisorbed MOF on ZT surface is strongly supported by the PXRD and FT-IR data. It is found that a high surface area of the MOF increases the amount of dye adsorption. The photovoltaic performance and electronic properties of the composite are investigated. Electrochemical impedance analysis of the DSSCs based on MOF reveals that the electronic transport is better than bare titania photoanode, and the photo-generated electrons are less likely to recombine.
Cybersecurity Resilience Maturity Assessment Tool for Critical National Information Infrastructure
Authors: Kulugh Victor , Mbanaso Uche , Chukwudebe Gloria
Published: June 2023

Cybersecurity resilience maturity assessment of critical national information infrastructure (CNII) is an important process in ensuring that organisations’ capability for resilience are measured and gaps determined vis-à-vis targeted resilience for the purpose of improvements. However, existing solutions do not provide an automated quantitative tool to enable organisation conduct the assessment of their cybersecurity resilience posture at defined regular intervals. This paper presents the cybersecurity resilience maturity assessment tool (CRMAT). The CRMAT is built on the cybersecurity resilience maturity assessment framework and the cybersecurity resilience maturity assessment model (CRMAM). While the CRMAF and CRMAM provide requirements and computational algorithms for the tool respectively. The agile methodology of the software development life cycle (SDLC) was adopted with the MVC (model-view-controller) architectural pattern to implement the software. The software tool has two interfaces, namely; admin interface that enables the setup of the cybersecurity controls and other parameters that will form the basis for the assessment and a report generation interface for all the cybersecurity controls. CRMAT was demonstrated on 31 CNIII organisations and result showed its capability to successfully and accurately compute the CNII resilience index (CNIIRI) and the indexes of other cybersecurity controls indicated in the CRMAF. Comparative analysis of the results showed that 5 (16.13%) of the organisations are in Q4, 9 (29.03%) are in Q3 while 13 (41.94%) and 4 (12.90%) are in Q2 and Q1 respectively. The implication is that the organisations in Q4 has optimised resilience while those in Q1 have the weakest cybersecurity resilience.
Discontinuation of Implants and associated factors among women in health facilities of Bahir Dar city, Northwest Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Melesse Yilkal Dagnaw
Published: June 2023

Background
Discontinuation of Implants is the removal or switch to other methods before completion of duration due to any reason. This exposes a woman to unwanted pregnancy, unsafe abortions, and unplanned births that affect millions of women worldwide. Inspite of the improvement in availability and utilization of Implants, discontinuation is becoming high. There is limited study conducted on implants discontinuation and factors in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia.
Objective
The purpose of this research was to evaluate the proportion and explanatory variables of discontinuation of implants among users in selected health facilities of Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia, from April 1 to May 30/ 2021.
Methods
Health facility based cross-sectional design was conducted on 415 respondents. Data were collected through face-to-face interview questionnaires using a systematic random sampling method. Epi Data version 3.1 and Statistical Package for Social Sciences were used to data entry and formal analysis respectively. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyzes were used. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered a statistically significant factor for discontinuation.
Results
The overall proportion of discontinuation of implants was 55.3% (95% CI: 61.42–69.13). Have no formal education (AOR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.30–0.82), have primary education (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.18–0.81), wish to become pregnant in the near future (AOR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.64) to 4.02), no history of contraceptive use (AOR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.19 to 3.38), no counselling on benefit (AOR = 1.68; 95% CI: 1.08–2.62) and Side effects (AOR = 1.95; 95 CI: 1.21–3.16) were the factors associated with implant discontinuation.
Conclusion
The overall discontinuation of Implants among women was low compared to Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey 2016. Education, desire of pregnancy in the near future, no past history of contraceptive utilization, lack of counseling about the benefits, and side effects were factors for discontinuation. Hence health professionals should give adequate counseling, manage side effects and reassure women for any issues related with Implants.
Sargassum sp. as a Bio-Fertilizer: Is It Really a Key Towards Sustainable Agriculture for the Bahamas?
Authors: Adderley Aaliyah , Wallace Shonnel , Stubbs Danica , Bowen-O’Connor Clare , Ferguson Joseph , Watson Carlton , Gustave Williamson
Published: June 2023

Background Macroalgae blooms (Sargassum sp.) occur annually in the Bahamas due to the integration of various events related to human intercession with the roles of algae in biogeochemical cycles. These blooms are of great concern, as they are associated with many negative effects; thus, the primary aims of this study were to assess the quality of soils collected from South, Central, and North Long Island, and to determine if Sargassumsp. can be used as a biofertilizer for soils on Long Island. A 60-day pot trial method was established to determine the efficacy of different concentrations (1%, 5%, and 10%) of Sargassum sp. as a biofertilizer on cherry tomato cultivation. Additionally, the soil quality prior and after fertilizer amendment was evaluated.
Results The results show that Sargassum sp. increased nutrient content of the soil, specifically nitrate nitrogen and phosphorus; however, plant growth performance parameters (plant height, leaf number, bud number, flower number, and root and shoot weights) were negatively impacted.
Conclusions Due to the obtained results, it is recommended that serious consideration be taken when utilizing Sargassum sp. as a biofertilizer because the pH and type of soil in Long Island, Bahamas affects the bioavailability of the nutrients in algae.
Impact Assessment of Main Stem Elongation and Wind Speed on Lodging of Soybean Cultivar 'Miyagishirome'
Authors: Tomohiro Konno , Homma Koki
Published: June 2023

Problem: Soybean lodging (plants that fall over) results in a 9–34% yield loss. In Japan, there is high demand for indigenous cultivars, and it is often difficult to switch to lodging-resistant cultivars. As a countermeasure against lodging, "pinching", which is pruning the upper part of the trunk when overgrowth is expected, is attracting attention. However, pinching reduces the yield when the risk of lodging is low. Therefore, it is important to determine the risk of lodging before pinching is implemented. Although previous studies have shown that lodging is caused by the effects of main stem length and wind speed, there are still some questions that require clarification, e.g., the growth stages that have a high influence on lodging.
Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of main stem elongation and wind speed on lodging for the establishment of a future method to predict lodging.
Methods: We used data obtained from experimental plots with different cultivation management in the years 2018, 2020, and 2021 (n = 32). The cultivar tested was “Miyagishirome”, which is a major cultivar in Miyagi Prefecture and has characteristics that make it easy for lodging. The lodging angles were studied at R3 and R8, and classified the R3 lodging as the “Early lodging” and the R8 lodging as the “Late lodging”.
Results: In the multiple regression analysis of “Early lodging”, the main stem length was not significant, only wind speed was significant at the 0.1% level. In the “Late lodging”, the effect of main stem elongation from V6 to R1 was high, and the result of a single regression analysis was R2 = 0.70 (p <0.001). Multiple regression analysis showed that the R2 (R2 = 0.81) was highest in the model with R6 main stem length added as an explanatory variable, and wind speed was not significant.
Conclusion: The results indicated that “Early lodging” was strongly affected by wind speed, and “Late lodging” was strongly affected by main stem elongation (especially the main stem elongation from V6 to R1), resulting in more severe lodging.
Implication: Prediction of main stem elongation after V6 should be focused for judging the application of pinching as a countermeasure of late lodging.
The ArLAR Rheumatology Workforce:
Current Status, Challenges, Opportunities, and Future Needs
Authors: Ziade Nelly , Hmamouchi Ihsane , Haouichat Chafika , Baron Fatemah , Mayouf Sulaiman Al , Abdulateef Nizar , masri Basel , Rakawi Manal El , Kibbi Lina El , Mashaleh Manal El , Elzorkany Bassel , Saleh Jamal Al , Dejaco Christian , Abutiban Fatemah
Published: June 2023

Objective
The Arab League of Associations for Rheumatology (ArLAR) Research Group (ARCH) conducted this study to investigate the number of current practicing rheumatologists in the Arab countries, to estimate the number of rheumatologists in 10 years, and to evaluate the current workload, practice profile, consultation waiting time and geographical mobilities of these rheumatologists.
Methods
This cross-sectional survey study was conducted in 16 Arab countries in two parts. The first survey was addressed to national societies to estimate the current and projected workforce. The second was an anonymous e-survey elaborated by the study steering committee on the Google Forms platform and distributed to Arab rheumatologists using social media, WhatsApp, and mass e-mails to evaluate their practice.
Results
The mean number of rheumatologists in Arab countries was 0.84 per 100,000 inhabitants (mean age 47.5 years, 55% females), ranging from 0.06 in Sudan to 1.86 in Tunisia. The number of rheumatologists is expected to increase by 50% in 2032. Nevertheless, a 20% increase in population associated with an increase in demand is also expected.
Data from 446 rheumatologists (mean age 43.9 years, 60.5% females) revealed that 72% worked full-time, and 53% were employed in the public sector only. The average waiting time for a rheumatology consultation was 19.9 days. Of 394 rheumatologists, 19% obtained their rheumatology diplomas from non-Arab countries, and 47% of Gulf rheumatologists were non-citizen physicians.
Conclusion
Considering local demographic disparities, healthcare system differences, and geographical mobilities, national authorities are advised to implement effective intervention plans to optimize the rheumatology workforce.
Comparision of a Novel Trifocal Intraocular Lens and a Monofocal Enhanced Depth of Focus Intraocular Lens in Visual Performance and Quality of Life Scores
Authors: Talan¹ Mustafa , Penbe Aysegul , Akçay Güzide
Published: June 2023

Background
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of trifocal and monofocal intraocular lens with enhanced depth of focus implantations
Methods
40 patients who had bilateral implantation of the trifocal or monofocal extended depth of focus intaocular lenses after phacoemulsification were included in the study. The preoperative and postoperative examination findings were analyzed. At the 6th postoperative month, binocular defocus curves, contrast sensitivity measurements, subjective complaints, spectacles independence, and the quality of life questionnaire results of the VF-14 questionnaire were also examined.
Results
While distance and intermediate visual acuities were similar at 6 months postoperatively, near visual acuities were found to be statistically significantly better in the trifocal group. The contrast sensitivity values were found to be statistically better in the edof group. In the trifocal group, 25% of the patients had low-intensity and 5% of the patients had moderate intensity of photopic complaints respectively, while 10% of the patients in the edof group had low-intensity photopic complaints. While spectacles independence could be achieved in all patients in the trifocal group, in the edof group, 80% of patients needed spectacles. When examining VF-14 test values without spectacles, it was found that the values of the trifocal group were significantly higher.
Conclusions
Trifocal group performed better at near, although far and intermediate vision was comparable between the groups. On the other hand, a higher rate of photic phenomena was observed in the trifocal group.
Trial registration:
Retrospectively registered
Approaches to switching between insulin product with different insulin active substance
Authors: Demidova T. Y. , Dranitsyna M. A. , Niyazov R. R. , Vasiliev A. N. , Gavrishina E. V.
Published: June 2023

In health care emergencies, it may be necessary to switch a patient from one medicine to another to ensure continuity of care and to keep the patient stable. Such a switch can sometimes be difficult to achieve, especially in the case of medical products requiring individualized dose selection, such as insulin preparations. In Russia, there are no clear recommendations for switching from one insulin preparation to another in such situations. For this reason, foreign experience of switching from one insulin product to another was analyzed in conditions when the supply of the patient’s main insulin product was interrupted for various reasons. Based on the results of the literature review, it was found that the practice of replacing an insulin preparation based on one active ingredient with an insulin preparation with another active ingredient or an insulin preparation with a certain ratio of active ingredients with an insulin preparation with the same active ingredients but in a different ratio is quite common abroad. The experience obtained by foreign researchers has been systematized, and based on this work, algorithms have been proposed to help make appropriate replacement or switching decisions. Some of the proposed algorithms were further formalized, and recommendations were developed by well-known foreign agencies involved in the regulation of drug circulation, as well as by the World Health Organization. The results of this analysis may help to develop domestic approaches to insulin product replacement in health care emergencies.
The role of triglyceride-glucose index in predicting cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Demidova T. Yu. , Izmaylova M. Ya. , Belova K. M.
Published: June 2023

Diabetes mellitus type 2 is a global medical and social problem, which, in terms of population coverage around the world, is becoming a pandemic. The main cause of premature death in patients with type 2 diabetes is diseases of the cardiovascular system. The presence of diabetes is associated with an increase in the risk of developing coronary heart disease by two-four times, and every sixth patient has signs of myocardial infarction in the past. The risk of developing ASCVD in patients with type 2 diabetes is early onset, rapid progression, and asymptomatic course. It is known that patients with type 2 diabetes develop ASCVD 8–10 years earlier than people of the same age group who do not have diabetes. Along with chronic hyperglycemia, an independent risk factor for  cardiovascular complications in  patients with type  2 diabetes is dyslipidemia, which occurs in  30–40% of patients. Insulin resistance, the state of chronic hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia play a key role in the development of the metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis. The TyG index and the parameter of non-HDL-C have convincingly established themselves as predictors of the development of CVD, as well as markers reflecting signs of the presence of independent factors of the metabolic syndrome that increase the risk of CVD. Conducted clinical studies have confirmed the predictive value of these parameters in relation to CVD. This review focuses on the pathogenesis, development mechanisms, and methods for correcting lipid disorders that underlie the development of CV complications in patients with type 2 diabetes.
RENDIMIENTO Y COMPONENTES AGRONÓMICOS EN HÍBRIDOS DE MAÍZ MORADO (Zea mays L.) USANDO EL MODELO AMMI
Authors: Rodríguez-Pérez Gilberto , García-Ramirez Alejandro , Reynaga-Franco Felipe de Jesús , Mendívil-Mendoza Jaime Edzael , Ochoa Meza Alba Rocío , Cervantes-Ortiz Francisco , Andrio Enriquez Enrique
Published: June 2023

La producción de maíz (Zea mays L.) en México es deficitaria a pesar de producir 27 millones de toneladas, en los últimos cuatro años se ha incrementado la producción de maíz en Sonora, produciendo de 544 a 680 mil toneladas en 2018 y 2021 respectivamente, el 97% de la producción corresponde a maíces de color blanco, 3% a maíces amarillos; sin embargo, en maíces de color no hay registros de siembras. El objetivo de esta investigación fue estimar el rendimiento de grano y sus componentes agronómicos en híbridos mejorados de maíz morado en el sur de Sonora. Se utilizó un diseño experimental de bloques completos al azar con tres repeticiones con el modelo AMMI, las parcelas fueron de dos surcos en cuatro metros de longitud con una densidad de población de 100,000 plantas por hectárea, las variables fueron: rendimiento de grano, peso de mil granos, longitud de mazorca, granos por hilera, hileras por mazorca y peso hectolitrico. Los resultados mostraron significancia estadística entre híbridos, años y su interacción en todas las variables, el modelo AMMI fue útil para comprender la interacción genotipo-ambiente existente entre los híbridos de color modado en el rendimiento de grano. El AMMI, permitió identificar los híbridos 10, 1, 17, 4 y 2 como más estables en RG, GH, HM y LM para el año 2020, Por otra parte, los híbridos 9, 12, 3 y 13 en 2019; sin embargo, los de mayor interacción fueron 7, 16 y 4 presentaron rendimientos inferiores a la media general; los híbridos 16, 10, 14 y 19 obtuvieron mayor rendimiento, así como mayor PMG, PH GH, y LM. Existió correlación entre el rendimiento de grano con PMG, PH, LM, GH Y HM; en PMG hubo más asociación con PH, GH E HM.
miR-204-5p Plays a Critical Role in the Pathogenesis of Depression
and Anti-depression Action of Venlafaxine in the Hippocampus of
Mice
Authors: Guan Wei , Wu Xin-Yuan , Jin Xiang , Sheng Xiao-Ming , Fan Yan
Published: June 2023

Background:

Venlafaxine has been demonstrated to treat diseases such as social anxiety
disorder and depression. Most of antidepressants including venlafaxine have a certain effect, but
significant side effects. Therefore, it is necessary for us to research the development of novel antidepressants
for effective treatment in practice. MicroRNA-204 (miR-204) is highly expressed in
brain tissue, and plays a critical role in the synaptic plasticity of hippocampal neurons in rats. However,
the underlying molecular mechanism of miR-204 remains unclear to date, this study aims to
offer unique insights into depression and provide a theoretical basis for clinical physicians.

Methods:

A chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) was initially adopted for establishing a mice model
of depression in this research and depression-like behaviors were evaluated by a series of behavioral
experiments including the sucrose preference test (SPT), the tail suspension test (TST),
the forced swim test (FST) and the social interaction test (SIT). Quantitative real-time reverse transcription
PCR (qRT-PCR) was also conducted to test the expression levels of miR-204 and BDNF
in the hippocampus of mice. Finally, gene interference of miR-204-5p was further adopted to test
whether miR-204-5p played an effective role in the antidepressant effects of venlafaxine in mice.

Results:

Our data implicated that CSDS significantly increased the miR-204-5p but not
miR-204-3p levels in the hippocampus of mice. The treatment of venlafaxine obviously relieved depression-
like behaviors of CSDS-induced mice. The usage of venlafaxine abolished the increasing
effects on the expression of miR-204-5p but up-regulated the BDNF expression level in CSDS-exposured
mice. More importantly, we found that genetic overexpression of miR-204-5p decreased
the reverse effects of venlafaxine on depressive-like behaviors and genetic knockdown of hippocampal
miR-204-5p relieved the depressive-like behaviors and neurogenesis in CSDS-induced
mice.

Conclusion:

miR-204-5p played an effective role in the antidepressant effects of venlafaxine in
CSDS-induced mice.
Hexahydrocannabinol Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Analysis: The First
Evidence for a Recent New Psychoactive Substance
Authors: Graziano Silvia , Varì Maria Rosaria , Pichini Simona , Busardo Francesco Paolo , Cassano Tommaso , Di Trana Annagiulia
Published: June 2023

Background:

During the last two years, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), the hydrogenated derivative
of tetrahydrocannabinol has been freely sold by internet websites as a “legal” replacement to
THC and cannabis in a range of highly attractive branded and unbranded products, some of which are
sold as “legal highs”. Potentially, there could be a large demand for HHC products by individuals in
Europe and internationally.

Methods:

Studies reporting HHC pharmacology, toxicology and analysis were identified from Pubmed
and Scopus databases, and official international organizations’ websites were considered.

Results:

HHC showed the effects of the typical cannabinoid on the central nervous system, with lower
potency than Δ9-THC. A few studies highlighted that 9(R)-HHC is more potent than 9(S)-HHC. This
molecule showed an affinity for cannabinoid receptor CB1 both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting a possible
therapeutic effect in several pathologies. However, the affinity for the CB1 receptor suggests a
possible addiction potential, inducing the users to misuse it. Since actual intoxication cases have not
yet been reported, the HHC harmful potential was not described, probably due to the lack of effective
analytical methods to detect HHC in biological matrices. Conversely, different analytical assays were
developed and validated to separate HHC epimers in natural and non-natural sources.

Conclusion:

Similarly to other NPS, the HHC represents a cheaper alternative to the controlled
Δ9-THC. Its monitoring is a crucial challenge for toxicological and forensic purposes. To this concern,
it is essential to further investigate HHC to support health providers in the identification of related
intoxications.
Naturally Occurring Cholinesterase Inhibitors from Plants, Fungi, Algae,
and Animals: A Review of the Most Effective Inhibitors Reported in
2012-2022
Authors: Murray Ana Paula , Biscussi Brunella , Cavallaro Valeria , Donozo Martina , Rodriguez Silvana A.
Published: June 2023

Since the development of the “cholinergic hypothesis” as an important therapeutic approach
in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the scientific community has made a remarkable effort
to discover new and effective molecules with the ability to inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase
(AChE). The natural function of this enzyme is to catalyze the hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine
in the brain. Thus, its inhibition increases the levels of this neurochemical and improves the
cholinergic functions in patients with AD alleviating the symptoms of this neurological disorder. In
recent years, attention has also been focused on the role of another enzyme, butyrylcholinesterase
(BChE), mainly in the advanced stages of AD, transforming this enzyme into another target of interest
in the search for new anticholinesterase agents. Over the past decades, Nature has proven to be a rich
source of bioactive compounds relevant to the discovery of new molecules with potential applications
in AD therapy. Bioprospecting of new cholinesterase inhibitors among natural products has led to the
discovery of an important number of new AChE and BChE inhibitors that became potential lead compounds
for the development of anti-AD drugs. This review summarizes a total of 260 active compounds
from 142 studies which correspond to the most relevant (IC50 ≤ 15 μM) research work published
during 2012-2022 on plant-derived anticholinesterase compounds, as well as several potent inhibitors
obtained from other sources like fungi, algae, and animals.
Doege-Potter Syndrome; A Case of Solitary Fibrous Pleura Tumor Associated
with Severe Hypoglycemia: A Case Report in Internal Medicine
Authors: Castaldo Viviana , Domenici Daniela , Biscosi Mauro Valentino , Ubiali Paolo , Miranda Cesare , Zanette Giorgio , Mazzon Cinzia , Tonizzo Maurizio
Published: June 2023

Background:

Doege-Potter syndrome is a rare paraneoplastic entity that is often diagnosed incidentally during the work-up of hypoglycemia of unclear etiology. It is characterized by a non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia mostly associated with solitary fibrous tumors. These uncommon tumors have been reported in <5% of solitary fibrous tumors. Although not unique in its kind, this case is extremely important as this syndrome often conceals unrecognized tumors that can be surgically resolved.

Case Presentation:

We present the case of a 59-year-old non-diabetic man with a 2-month history of severe and recurrent fasting hypoglycaemia presenting with severe dyspnea and sweating. Further work-up revealed low insulin, C-peptide, and IGF-1 levels and a large right in-trathoracic solitary fi-brous tumor. Unfortunately, bioassays for IGF-2 were unavailable at our hos-pital. Nevertheless, as hypoglycemia completely resolved after resection of the mass, Doege-Potter syndrome was highly sus-pected.

Conclusion:

Doege-Potter syndrome is a complication of rare tumors. If hy-poglycemia is unexplained, this syndrome should always be suspected, and the presence of un-known masses should be investi-gated.
Plurihormonal (TSH-GH-prolactin Secreting) PIT-1-Positive pituitary
Macroadenoma/Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumor (PitNET) Associated with
Graves’ Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Morgante Cesare , Guaraldi Federica , Asioli Sofia , Mazzatenta Diego , Papi Giampaolo , Pontecorvi Alfredo
Published: June 2023

Background:

Differential diagnosis of primary and secondary hyperthyroidism can be challenging. Moreover, although extremely rare, the two conditions can coexist.

Methods:

A 58-year-old woman presented with symptoms of thyrotoxicosis, gradual changes in face shape, headache and progressive enlargement of hands and feet in the last year. When she was 46 years old, she was diagnosed with Graves’ disease, and treated with 4-year methimazole therapy. Since 2016, a progressive increase of free-T4 and free-T3 with normal-TSH and positive TrAb was noticed.

Results:

At biochemical examination, fT3 was 5.3pg/ml (n. v. 2.5 - 3.9 pg/ml), fT4 was 20.6 pg/ml (n.v 6-12 pg/ml), IGF1 was 698 ng/ml (57 – 240 ng/ml*), GH (basally and after OGTT), and prolactin were significantly increased; while TSH was 1.8 (n.v. 0.35-4.0 mcUI/ml). A pituitary MRI demonstrated a large sellar tumor with suprasellar extension. The patient underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery. Histological examination revealed a plurihormonal (GH-PRL-TSH-secreting) PIT-1-positive pituitary adenoma/pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET). At 3-month follow-up, the pituitary function was normal, and no residual tumor was detected at the MRI.

Conclusion:

We report a rare case of Graves’ disease coexisting with a plurihormonal PIT-1-positive pituitary adenoma/PitNET.
Recent Advances in The Design and Analysis of Fractal Antennas
Authors: Dhaliwal Balwinder S. , Pattnaik Suman , Pattnaik Shyam Sundar
Published: June 2023

Microstrip patch antennas mainly draw attention to low-power transmitting
and receiving applications. These antennas consist of a metal patch (rectangular,
square, or some other shape) on a thin layer of dielectric/ferrite (called a substrate) on a
ground plane. Microstrip antennas have matured considerably during the past three
decades, and many of their limitations have been overcome. As the size of
communication devices is decreasing day by day, the demand for miniaturized patch
antennas is growing. Many methods of reducing the size of antennas have been
developed in the past two decades. The recent trend in this direction is to use fractal
geometry. The design of an antenna for a specific resonant frequency requires the
calculation of the optimal value of various dimensions. This is a hard task for fractal
antennas because the accurate mathematical formulas leading to exact solutions do not
exist for the analysis and design of these antennas. The use of bio-inspired computing
techniques is gaining momentum in antenna design and analysis due to rapid growth in
the computational processing power, and the main techniques are Artificial Neural
Network (ANN), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO),
Bacterial Foraging Optimization (BFO), and Swine Influenza Model-based
Optimization (SIMBO), etc. In the area of antenna design, the ANNs are employed to
model the relationship between the physical and electromagnetic parameters. The
trained ANNs are effectively used for the analysis and design of various types of
antennas. Bio-inspired optimization techniques have been used by researchers to
calculate the optimal parameters of various patch antennas and for the size optimization
of antennas. Also, the hybrids of ANN and optimization techniques are proposed as
effective algorithms for many applications, especially when the expressions for relating
the input and output variables are not available. The presented research has addressed
these recent topics by designing miniaturized fractal antennas using bio-inspired
computing techniques for various low-power applications, thus, providing costeffective and efficient solutions.
Amos Bronson Alcott: A Case for Romantic Education
Authors: Costa Jaime
Published: June 2023

As one of its ideologues, Amos Bronson Alcott constitutes one of the most relevant figures of Transcendentalism or American Romanticism. Confronted with the radical changes of the times he was living in, Alcott will come up with his most daring proposals in the realm of education. The objective of this article is to place Alcott’s reformation drive within its philosophical context and to reveal his singular position. Self-awareness, in perspective with nature, constitutes an unavoidable previous step to any educational intent. It is from here that the most useful learning takes place, that which allows for establishing a relationship between the material world and the spiritual world. Alcott identifies the general laws of thought, as series of Maxims, that must at all times guide the instructor. Due to the divine nature of human beings, education will, in the end, be concerned with self-education.
Merleau-Ponty e a Educação Física com crianças
Authors: De Medeiros Francisco Emílio , Cunha António Camilo
Published: June 2023

Este artigo constitui um desdobramento da pesquisa Crianças, Educação Física e Metodologias de Ensino: Interfaces entre os campos de conhecimento da Educação Física e da Infância. A partir de algumas constatações empíricas, teve como objetivo fazer uma reflexão teórica e exploratória tomando como referência o pensamento do filósofo Merleau-Ponty. Com estas constatações e reflexões pretendeu-se conhecer e extrair princípios teórico-didático-metodológicos para a Educação Física com crianças. Paralelamente a esse caminho, convocamos a perspetiva fenomenológica do “se-movimentar”, desenvolvida por Elenor Kunz, como possibilidade de assegurar algo que é intrínseco às crianças, isto é, a “relação ingênua (que elas estabelecem) com o mundo”. Ambos os autores trazem uma importante noção fenomenológica: a expressão do ter e do ser corpo, como o princípio estruturante do ser-no-mundo; do ter e do ser corpo como forma de “ver a criança por ela mesma – uma dimensão ontológica”. Além destas noções fenomenológicas destacamos, também conclusivamente, a importante noção de criança comum a Merleau-Ponty: a de Manuel Sarmento (um olhar sociológico), quando faz um elogio à positivação da infância: “ver a criança por ela mesma”.
PENGARUH PERBEDAAN MEDIA PENETASAN TERHADAP DAYA TETAS TELUR DAN DAYA HIDUP BEKICOT (Achatina fulica)
Authors: Khairunnisa Lulu , Ciptono Ciptono , Suhandoyo Suhandoyo
Published: June 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh media penetasan yang berbeda terhadap kualitas tetasan telur dan daya hidup anakan bekicot (Achatina fulica).Jenis penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen. Subjek penelitian adalah telur bekicot dari satu indukan yang ditetaskan ke dalam empat media penetasan yang berbeda. Setiap media penetasan berisi 10 butir telur, dilakukan sebanyak 5 kali ulangan. Media yaitu pasir, tanah, sekam, kerikil, dan kontrol diletakkan di dalam cobek sebagai wadah dan penutup. Pengontrolan kelembaban adalah dengan cara menyemprot dengan 15 ml air pada media dan pada cobek. Intensitas cahaya disamakan  dengan meletakkan bahan uji pada tempat yang sama. Telur bekicot dibiarkan menetas kurang lebih selama 13 hari, dan dihitung persentase daya tetas telur. Bekicot yang menetas dipelihara selama 1 minggu untuk mengetahui persentase daya hidup anakan bekicot dalam media tersebut. Data dicatat dan dianalisis menggunakan One Way Anova untuk mengetahui apakah media berpengaruh terhadap daya tetas dan daya hidup bekicot.Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa media yang digunakan tidak berpengaruh secara nyata terhadap daya tetas dan daya hidup bekicot (P0,05), meskipun rerata masing-masing parameter perlakuan ada perbedaan yang menunjukkan bahwa perbedaan media tetap memberikan pengaruh. Kata kunci: Achatina fulica, daya hidup, daya tetas, kerikil,  pasir, sekam, dan tanah.
PENGARUH PEMBERIAN EKSTRAK DAUN LEGUNDI (Vitex trifolia) SEBAGAI PESTISIDA NABATI PENGENDALIAN HAMA Plutella xylostella PADA TANAMAN SAWI (Brassica juncea)
Authors: Lina Martha , Suryadarma IGP , Suhartini Suhartini
Published: June 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dosis optimal ekstrak daun Legundi (Vitex trifolia) sebagai pengendali hama Plutella xylostella pada tanaman sawi caisim (Brassica juncea), persentase mortalitas, pemendekan siklus hidup hama menjadi pupa, dan ada tidaknya pengaruh terhadap morfologi tanaman sawi caisim (Brassica juncea) setelah pemberian ekstrak daun Legundi (Vitex trifolia). Jenis penelitian ini adalah Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL). Ekstrak daun Legundi Vitex trifolia dibuat dari  100 gram daun Legundi segar yang dihaluskan dengan pelarut air dan direndam selama 24 jam dalam 1000 ml air. Starter ekstrak daun Legundi Vitex trifolia dibagi menjadi 5 variasi dosis yaitu 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% dan 20%. Hasil uji statistik Oneway Anova diperoleh p= 0,005, sehingga (p0,05) artinya ada perbedaan yang bermakna, yaitu ekstrak daun Legundi Vitex trifolia mengakibatkan mortalitas hama Plutella xylostella. Ekstrak daun Legundi Vitex trifolia pada dosis 20% adalah dosis paling efektif mengakibatkan kematian larva. Hasil uji statistik Oneway Anova menunjukkan tidak terdapat perbedaan rata-rata persentase terjadinya pembentukan pupa hama Plutella xylostella. Setelah penyemprotan ekstrak terhadap tanaman sawi caisim (Brassica juncea), menunjukkan tanaman sawi caisim (Brassica juncea) tetap hidup dan tidak ada kerusakan akibat terpapar ekstrak.Kata kunci: Ekstrak, Pestisida, Plutella xylostella.
AKTIVITAS ANTIBAKTERI BERBAGAI POLIMER ANTIMIKROBA TERHADAP BAKTERI YANG DIISOLASI DARI PERMUKAAN LENSA KONTAK SECARA IN VITRO
Authors: Ridwan Nur Fathurahman , Rakhmawati Anna , Pidhatika Bidhari
Published: June 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui nilai daya hambat, potensi relatif dan nilai kadar hambat minimum dari polimer Poli L-Lisin (PLL), Peptida Antimikroba (PAM), Poli L-Lisin-graft- Poli Etilen Glikol (PLL-g-PEG), dan Poli L-Lisin-graft-Poli 2-Metil-2-Oxazolin (PLL-g-PMOXA) terhadap bakteri yang telah diisolasi dari lensa kontak. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen rancangan acak lengkap (RAL) 2 faktor dengan 5 ulangan. bakteri yang diujikan adalah Staphylococcus sp., Neisseria sp., Aeromonas sp, dan Enterobacter sp. Data dianalisis secara deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan PLL dan AMP kadar lebih rendah (50 ppm-250 ppm) dibandingkan dengan PLL-g-PEG dan PLL-g-PMOXA (250 ppm-500 ppm) pada berbagai bakteri yang diujikan. PLL dan AMP memiliki potensi relatif yang lebih tinggi dibandingkan dengan PLL-g-PEG dan PLL-g-PMOXA jika dibandingkan dengan kloramfenikol. Terdapat kebocoran sel pada membran plasma dari sel bakteri yang diujikan dari perlakuan polimer PLL, AMP dan PLL-g-PEG, PLL-g-PMOXA sedangkan kerusakan dinding sel dari nilai N-Ag memiliki perbedaan hasil perlakuan PLL dan AMP cenderung menyebabkan kerusakan dinding sel namun polimer PLL-g-PEG dan PLL-g-PMOXA cenderung tidak menyebabkan kerusakan peptidoglikan.Kata kunci: Antibakteri, AMP, daya hambat, Lensa Kontak.
PENGARUH	EKSTRAK DAUN	KENARI	(Canarium	indicum, L.)	TERHADAP PERKEMBANGAN FOLIKEL OVARIUM TIKUS PUTIH BETINA (Rattus norvegicus, L.)
Authors: Rejeki Rahayu Tri , Harjana Tri , Sukiya Sukiya
Published: June 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian ekstrak  daun  kenari (Canarium indicum,L) terhadap perkembangan folikel ovarium tikus putih (Rattus norvegicus,L).Penelitian eksperimen ini menggunakan 16 ekor tikus putih betina yang dibagi dalam 4kelompok.  Kelompok  tanpa  ekstrak  daun  kenari  sebagai  kelompok  kontrol,  tiga  kelompok  lainsebagai kelompok perlakuan yang diberi perlakuan ekstrak daun kenari dengan dosis, masing-masing P1 (200mg ekstrak daun kenari), P2 (300mg ekstrak daun kenari) dan P3 (400mg ekstrak daun  kenari). Pemberian perlakuan ekstrak daun kenari dilakukan selama 21 hari secara oral. Data hasil pengamatan dianalisis dianalisis dengan uji Kruskal Wallis dengan menghitung jumlah folikel ovarium, yaitu : folikel primer, folikel sekunder, folikel tersier, folikel de graff, ovulasi, corpus  luteum dan folikel atresia. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa pemberian ekstrak daun kenari berpengaruh nyata (P≤0,05) terhadap folikel tersier, folikel atresia, ovulasi dan corpus luteum, serta berpengaruh tidak nyata (p≥0,05) terhadap folikel primer, folikel sekunder dan folikel de graff.Kata kunci: Ekstrak daun kenari, folikel ovarium, tikus putih
OPTIMASI SUHU DAN pH MEDIA PERTUMBUHAN BAKTERI PELARUT FOSFAT DARI ISOLAT BAKTERI TERMOFILIK
Authors: Respati Ningtyas Yuniar , Yulianti Evy , Rahmawati Anna
Published: June 2023

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui suhu dan pH yang optimal serta pengaruhnya terhadap pertumbuhan bakteri pelarut fosfat termofilik pasca erupsi Merapi. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen. Sampel penelitian yaitu isolat BPF D75, D92, dan D110a yang termasuk Genus Oscillospira. Sampel diberi perlakuan variasi suhu (45oC, 55oC, dan 65oC) dan pH (5, 7, dan 9) serta diukur pertumbuhan bakteri menggunakan spektrofotometer 600 nm. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ketiga isolat memiliki kemampuan tumbuh yang berbeda-beda terhadap suhu lingkungan dan pH media Pikovskaya mengalami penurunan pH menjadi asam. Pertumbuhan bakteri optimal pada isolat D75 suhu 55 oC dan pH 7 dengan nilai OD 9,51 pada jam ke-12 , isolat D92 suhu 55 oC dan pH 9 dengan nilai OD 11,69 pada jam ke-27, dan isolat D110a suhu 45 oC dan pH 9 dengan nilai OD 11,49 pada jam ke-15. Pertumbuhan isolat bakteri termofilik paling baik adalah isolat D110a, suhu paling baik 45 oC dan pH 9. Kata kunci: bakteri pelarut fosfat dan pertumbuhan.
FEKTIVITAS EKSTRAK DAUN KEMBANG BULAN (Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsley) A. Gray) SEBAGAI PESTISIDA NABATI PENGENDALIAN HAMA Crocidolomia binotalis PADA TANAMAN SAWI (Brassica juncea L.)
Authors: Prawesti Dwi Indah , Suryadarma IGP , Suhartini Suhartini
Published: June 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas pestisida nabati dari ekstrak daun kembang bulan (Tithonia diversifolia) terhadap mortalitas hama Crocidolomia binotalis pada tanaman sawi (Brassica juncea L.), jumlah pupa Crocidolomia binotalis, dan tingkat kerusakan sawi. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Green house Biologi, FMIPA, UNY pada bulan Februari-Maret 2017. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen dengan perlakuan variasi dosis ekstrak daun kembang bulan. Perlakuan yang digunakan ada 7 macam yaitu dosis ekstrak kembang bulan 0% (P1), 15% (P2), 17,5% (P3), 20% (P4), 22,5% (P5), 25% (P6) dan pestisida sintetik sebagai kontrol positif (P7). Parameter yang diamati adalah mortalitas hama, jumlah pupa, dan tingkat kerusakan daun sawi. Analisis data dilakukan dengan uji normalitas, uji homogenitas dan uji anova satu arah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ekstrak daun kembang bulan pada dosis 25% berpengaruh terhadap mortalitas Crocidolomia binotalis, jumlah pupa, dan tingkat kerusakan daun sawi.Kata Kunci: pestisida nabati, kembang bulan, Crocidolomia binotalis, sawi (Brassica juncea L.)