bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between triglyceride–glucose index and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Yan , He Feng , Liu Zhuo , Dong Jie , Zhang Yuqi , Li Tianfang , Chen En , Liu Shengyun
Published: May 2022

Background
Lipid and glucose metabolism abnormalities are associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index is a recently developed indicator that can identify individuals at risk for NAFLD. However, the applicability of the TyG index for identifying NAFLD in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of the TyG index to identify individuals at risk for NAFLD in the T2DM population.
Methods
A total of 2280 participants with T2DM were recruited in this cross-sectional study. The TyG index was calculated, and NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography. Binary logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association of the TyG index, glycemic parameters and lipid parameters with NAFLD.
Results
Logistic regression analysis showed that the TyG index was significantly associated with NAFLD in subjects with T2DM, the odds ratio (OR) were 3.27 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.03–5.27; P < 0.001) for NAFLD in the highest TyG quartile after adjustment for known confounders. In stratified analysis, an elevated TyG index were more remarkably associated with NAFLD in younger patients (< 65 years; OR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.83–3.02; P < 0.001), females (OR, 2.69; 95% CI, 1.67–4.32; P < 0.001), patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (OR, 2.80; 95% CI, 2.01–3.91; P < 0.0001), and with lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (< 1 mmol/L; OR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.98–3.83; P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The TyG index is remarkably associated with NAFLD and shows superior ability for identify NAFLD risk compared with other lipid and glycemic parameters in the T2DM population.
New species and records of Leptusa from the Georgian Caucasus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae)
Authors: Assing Volker
Published: May 2022

Three field trips to West Georgia conducted in 2021 yielded 923 specimens of Leptusa Kraatz, 1858 belonging to ten species, two of which are described and illustrated: Leptusa (Neopisalia) pugiofera spec. nov. (Georgia: Kvemo Svaneti); L. (N.) insculpta spec. nov. (Georgia: Zemo Svaneti). The distributions of five species are mapped. The Leptusa fauna of the Caucasus region sensu lato is now represented by a total of 40 species, 21 of which (11 exclusive) have been recorded from Georgia. The Palaearctic fauna includes 420 species and 74 subspecies in 71 subgenera.

Taxonomic acts

Leptusa pugiofera spec. nov. – urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:65DB13D7-F5EB-4C7A-816A-6C3891641F7A Leptusa insculpta spec. nov. – urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:CE43945E-ABB8-41D8-BA13-DE93033EA108
POWER REDUCTION CONSIDERATIONS FOR BULK CARRIERS WITH RESPECT TO NOVEL ENERGY EFFICIENCY REGULATIONS
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Naval Architecture, Kalajdžić Milan , Vasilev Matija ,   Ocean Pro Marine Engineers LTD, Momčilović Nikola
Published: May 2022

After introducing an energy efficiency design index (EEDI) in 2011, International Maritime Organization (IMO) pursued their short- and long-term goals to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships by presenting, among others, an energy efficiency existing ship index (EEXI). Contrary to EEDI which is used for new ships solely, EEXI is addressing an energy efficiency of already built ships and is set to become formally applicable starting from 2023. Existing designs cannot be essentially and rapidly changed to comply the criterion. The only main particular from the preliminary design phase that can be meaningly optimized “post festum” is a required engine power, and thus, the speed. Therefore, the paper explores the effect of EEXI policy on a fleet of 153 bulk carriers built between 2000 and 2020 in order to address their near future and prompt design changes, specifically considering the power reduction. For that purpose, an attained and a required EEXI are calculated for each ship. The results showed that only 15% of the ships built in 2000-2012 satisfied 2013-2014 IMO criterion. This impacted the design of ships built in 2013-2022, as they complied the same criterion by 88% of share. However, no ship from the whole database satisfied the present day EEDI requirement and only one ship fulfilled the contemporary EEXI requirement meaning that the current designs are not able to match the emerging criteria to a large extent. In order to meet an energy efficiency criterion, a main engine power reduction and speed are predicted assuming that the engine power and shaft limiter are installed. The investigation showed that MCR reduction of the total fleet taken into account had to be reduced by 50% and speed by 15% on average in order for ships to meet current requirements. Moreover, a graphic method is developed for the estimation of EEXI by using only deadweight (DWT) and maximum continuous rating (MCR). The proposed simplified method based on average values could be used on existing bulk carriers with an aim to satisfy novel regulation with application of “easy to use” approach. Additionally, authors discussed other options to reliably evaluate an energy efficiency of existing ships.
Executives’ commitment, corporate governance, and performance of Islamic banks: Evidence from the Saudi context
Authors: Aliani Khaoula , Alsalih Aysha , Hamza Fadhila
Published: May 2022

This paper aims to investigate the impact of executives’ ethical commitment and corporate governance on the Islamic banks’ performance in the Saudi context. The sample of this study consists of Saudi Islamic banks over the period 2012–2020. The financial data were extracted from the Saudi stock exchange (Tadawul). While the behavioral data, particularly the executives’ ethical commitment, is measured through the ethical commitment index. In the econometric analysis, a generalized least square regression method (GLS) is applied to two different sub-models with different dependent variables (return on assets and return on equity). Empirical results suggest that board size and board independence have a significant impact on bank performance. The ethical commitment of executives contributes positively and significantly to the performance of Islamic banks in terms of return on assets. However, there is no statistical evidence of the effect of ethical commitment on Islamic banks’ returns on equity. Therefore, boards of directors of Islamic banks should include expert independent directors to promote best governance practices and enhance executives’ commitment. Larger boards can improve their credit ratings and access to resources.
AcknowledgmentThis study was funded by Deanship of Scientific Research at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (Grant No. 39/S/243).
Photo-Fenton-Based Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye Using Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles Doped with Fe3O4/γ-Fe2O3
Authors: Bimbi Junior Fausto , Neves Camila , do Nascimento Maria , Falcão Evaristo , Barros Willyam
Published: May 2022

In this study, we evaluated the catalytic properties of hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles (NPs) doped with Fe3O4/γ-Fe2O3 for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye using a photo- Fenton process at pH 2.5, 7.0, and 9.0. The HA NPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, fluorescence spectrometry, and point of zero charge experiments. Upon using unmodified HA NPs, 1.33 mL of H2O2 30% (v/v), and ultraviolet radiation (125 W Hg lamp), the discoloration values achieved at pH 2.5, 7.0, and 9.0 were 88.4, 44.8, and 58.1%, respectively. For the HA NPs modified with Fe3O4/γ-Fe2O3, the composition Ca2.5FeII 2.5FeIII 5(PO4)6(OH)2 yielded the best results during the photo-Fenton-based process, and discolorations of 100, 100, and 95.2% were achieved at pH 2.5, 7.0, and 9.0, respectively. To confirm the effectiveness of the Ca2.5FeII 2.5FeIII 5(PO4)6(OH)2 NPs, the total organic carbon (TOC) and toxicity effects on Lactuca sativa L. were evaluated, and reproducibility tests were performed. The TOC removal of the Ca2.5FeII 2.5FeIII 5(PO4)6(OH)2 NPs was ca. 90% and the toxicity of the MB dye was eliminated after 120 min of reaction; moreover, the NPs retained their physical stability and activity and were reused for 11 consecutive degradation experiments.
New Chromosomal Data of Dianthus Section Leiopetali (Caryophyllaceae, Sileneae)
Authors: EROĞLU Halil Erhan , MARTİN Esra , HAMZAOĞLU Ergin , KOÇ Murat , YAVAŞ Fatma Nagehan , BOZKURT Havva , TANHAŞ Esra
Published: May 2022

In section Leiopetali, the diploid chromosome numbers were reported from only six of total 25 taxa. There is no karyological data relating to other 19 taxa. In this study, it is intended to determine the diploid chromosome numbers of taxa of section Leiopetali. The diploid number of 13 species were detected, four of which were recorded for the first time and nine numbers compatible with the previous reports. Twelve species were diploid with 2n = 2x =30. D. leptopetalus was diploid and polyploid, which reveals only one polyploidy level of tetraploidy (2n = 4x = 60). Polyploidy might have played a role in the karyotype evolution of the genus. One of the most important reasons for this situation is that although polyploidy is observed in the genus Dianthus, the dysploidy mechanism that causes a change in the basic chromosome number has not been found until now. The basic number is x = 15 according to the all chromosomal reports. In conclusion, this study reports new data into the karyological characteristics of section Leiopetali (genus Dianthus) that can be useful for interpreting or understanding relationships among sections.
Koz Dağları’ndan (Genç -Bingöl) B8 Karesi için Yeni Floristik Kayıtlar ve Lythrum volgense ile İlgili Değerlendirmeler
Authors: ÇETİN Abdurrahim , BEHÇET Lütfi
Published: May 2022

Bu çalışmada yer alan 28 bitki taksonun B8 karesindeki yayılışları ilk kez verilmektedir. Verilen taksonlardan 6’sı endemiktir. Lythrum volgense türünün Türkiye florasında verilen tanımında stamen sayısının 6 olduğu belirtilmektedir. Fakat bu türün yayılışının bulunduğu diğer ülke floralarındaki tanımlarında stamen sayısı örneklerimizdeki gibi 2 olarak verildiğinden bu durum üzerinde durulmuştur. Bu çalışmada verilen 28 taksonun 10’u Akdeniz, 4’ü Avrupa Sibirya, 2’si İran-Turan fitocoğrafik bölge elementi iken, 12 tanesi çok bölgeli veya fitocoğrafik bölgesi belli olmayan taksonlardır.
Construction of Pure Metrics on Almost Complex Metallic Manifolds
Authors: TURANLI Sibel
Published: May 2022

This paper aims to present a way of pure metrics construction on a pseudo-Riemannian manifold of neutral signature with respect to almost metallic structures and give some examples about these pure metrics.
Pensar el dispositivo escolar en diálogo con la obra de Boaventura de Sousa Santos
Authors: Vercellino Soledad
Published: May 2022

Desde la década del 90 la investigación educativa ha puesto el foco en aquellos componentes estructurantes y estructurales de lo escolar, es decir, aquellos elementos invariantes que organizan la experiencia escolar. La ‘caja negra de lo escolar’ ha sido conceptualizada, segúnla tradición conceptual de la que se trate, como ‘gramática’ (Tyack y Cuban, 1995), ‘cultura’ (Julia, 2001; Viñao, 2002), ‘forma’ (Vincent, Lahire y Thin, 1994) o ‘dispositivo escolar’ (Querrien, 1979; Varela y Álvarez Uría, 1991). En esta comunicación se analizará la noción focoultiana de dispositivo y se intentará enriquecerla al ponerla en diálogo con la obra del Prof. Boaventura de Sousa Santos. Todo ellocomo forma de desarrollar un enfoque conceptual que permita pensar de otro modo lo escolar. Se trata de una estrategia de pensamiento, que otea ese espacio abrumador, enérgico, a veces inefable, otras trivializado en su aparente obviedad, que es ‘lo escolar’, intentando restituir algo de su multiplicidad y complejidad. Think the school dispositive into dialogue with the work of Boaventura de Sousa Santos
A experiência e a formação jurídica sob a perspectiva de promoção da justiça cognitiva
Authors: Palmeira Sobrinho Zéu
Published: May 2022

Tem-se como objetivo discutir sobre a formação jurídica por mediação deexperiência no contexto da prática da justiça cognitiva. Propõe-se fazer uma análise sobre os principais problemas que o profissional do Direito possuem no processo de sua formação a partir da perspectiva de uma educação jurídica emancipatória, focada principalmente no caso de formação de juízes.
Integrando el papel de la agencia en los estudios sobre género y gabinetes ministeriales
Authors: Martelotte Lúcia
Published: May 2022

Aunque con un grado de desarrollo inferior al alcanzado por los análisis sobregénero y Poder Legislativo, en las últimas décadas se han multiplicado los esfuerzos por indagar en el papel de las mujeres en el Poder Ejecutivo. Las investigaciones centradas en las mujeres en los gabinetes responden generalmente a diseños cuantitativos, en los que el énfasis está puesto en identificar el tipo de factores que obstaculizan la llegada de las mujeresa las posiciones ministeriales, así como el peso relativo de cada uno de estosfactores. Sin embargo, pasados casi veinte años desde que comenzaron a explorarse estos fenómenos, poco se sabe aún acerca de la capacidad de agencia de las mujeres que efectivamente lograron sortear dichos obstáculos y acceder a posiciones ministeriales. En la primera parte del trabajo se ofrece una sistematización de la literatura sobre género y poder ejecutivo en general y sobre mujeres en los gabinetes en particular. En la segunda parte se presentan argumentos que ponen de manifiesto la necesidad de incorporar la capacidad de agencia de las mujeres, junto con propuestas acerca de cómo definir e introducir este concepto y sus consecuencias en los análisis sobre género y gabinetes.
EDUCAÇÃO E EMANCIPAÇÃO: a perspectiva da Lei Federal 10.639/2003
Authors: Paula Benjamin Xavier
Published: May 2022

Aborda-se a implementação da Lei Federal 10.639 de 09 de janeiro de 2003, bem como, seu arcabouço jurídico normativo, o Parecer CNE/CP nº 3/2004 e a Resolução CNE/CP nº 1/2004 seus significados e intenções, numa perspectiva teórico-metodológica que buscaarticular uma educação antirracista com os pressupostos éticos e estéticos de uma educação para a emancipação social, amparado na perspectiva dos conceitos de Boaventura de Sousa Santos (2010),Paulo Freire (2007) e Ana Maria Saul (1988), bem com, nos referenciais radicadas na experiência africana das diásporas, como disposto em Joseph Ki-Zerbo (2010), Elisa Larkin Nascimento (1996; 2008; 2009), Cheikh Anta Diop (1974, apud NASCIMENTO, 1996); KabengeleMunanga (1986; 2000; 2003; 2006), Neuza Santos Souza (1983), Frantz Fanon (2008), Abdias do Nascimento (2002), Carlos More(2007), Molefi Kete Asante (1987; 1989;1990), Jacques D’Adesk (2001), Dagoberto José Fonseca (2008), Luiz Alberto Oliveira Gonçalves; Petronilha Beatriz Gonçalves e Silva (2000), e os dados empíricos dapesquisa levantados a partir da pesquisa bibliográfica e pesquisa documental.
SEXUALIDADE E PARTO: em busca do elo perdido
Authors: Luz Lia
Published: May 2022

Tendo-se como base metodológica a sociologia das ausências e a sociologia das emergências proposta por Boaventura de Sousa Santos, este artigo realiza uma cartografia simbólica teórica e práticasobre a relação entre sexualidade e parto. Na parte inicial, debate-se como o paradigma hegemônico da biomedicina, o chamado modelo tecnocrático, conforme categorização proposta por Davis-Floyd,foi dissociando o parto da sua natureza sexual. Em seguida, aborda-se a sexualidade do parto a partir de uma revisão da literatura que incluiu o resultado de pesquisas acadêmicas mais recentes sobre a temática, criando uma base teórica que situa o parto enquanto evento inerentemente sexual. No campo empírico, a temática é abordada a partir das narrativas e da percepção pessoal de mãesda comunidade intencional de Tamera, no sul de Portugal, escolhida como lócus de pesquisa por manter uma cultura de (amor e) sexualidade livre e também por incentivar os partos domiciliares planejados,dois ingredientes fundamentais para permitir a religação do elo entre sexualidade e parto. Tal etapa foi conduzida com o propósito de identificar como as mulheres vivenciam ou expressam sua sexualidadeno trabalho de parto e parto. Conclui-se que o parto é um evento intrinsecamente sexual, bastante marcante no ciclo sexual das mulheres, além de ser considerado extremamente empoderador, com consequências não apenas para a vida sexual, mas para a vida delas como um todo.
ESTADO Y PARENTESCO COMO FORMAS DE ARTICULACIÓN SOCIAL EN EL ANTIGUO EGIPTO: nuevas investigaciones históricoantropológicas sobre dinámicas políticas, económicas e ideológicas
Authors: Hernan Zapata Horacio Miguel
Published: May 2022

CAMPAGNO, Marcelo (Ed.). Estudios sobre parentesco y Estado en el Antiguo Egipto. Buenos Aires: IHAO-FFyL-UBA/Ediciones Del Signo, 2006. 228 páginas.
Macunaíma
Authors: Castelo Branco de Senna Alecrides Jahne Raquel
Published: May 2022

Sobre querelas eleitorais que incendeiam o cotidiano.
Apresentação
Authors: Marques Nelson , Marchi Gianfranco
Published: May 2022

Apresentação do Dossiê uma Antropo-sociologia de Filmes "Não Recomendáveis" parte I
Quatro Insights Pseudo-Fundamentados
Authors: Monteiro Thiago
Published: May 2022

Este ensaio discute e problematiza alguns dos pressupostos estéticos, filosóficos e socioculturais que fundamentam as associações entre o gênero narrativo audiovisual do horror e os estigmas de baixa qualidade e inferioridade artística que o caracterizam, por vezes sumarizada na vaga noção de trash. A partir de um olhar sobre o sétimo episódio da franquia Sexta-Feira 13 (A matança continua, dirigido por John Carl Buechler em 1987), o texto explora os conceitos de excesso, abjeção e liminaridade, buscando compreender a relevância do gênero e seu potencial crítico.
CATEGORIAS DE ANÁLISE SOCIOESPACIAL:
Authors: Dill Fernanda Machado , Longhinotti Felippe Maíra
Published: May 2022

Aspectos socioculturais estão presentes em qualquer projeto espacial concebido, seja na escala arquitetônica ou urbana, mesmo que os projetistas não tenham considerado tais fatores diretamente na concepção do projeto. Tendo como ponto de partida a pesquisa intitulada Categorias de análise socioespacial: A dimensão espacial do modo de viver Kaingang, o presente estudo tem como objetivo avaliar tais categorias frente a sua aderência aos projetos concebidos por estudantes de diferentes fases do curso de Arquitetura e Urbanismo da [Instituição omitida para avaliação]. Para tanto, a pesquisa apresenta as seguintes etapas: Expansão das categorias definidas na pesquisa anterior para que pudessem ser utilizadas em diferentes contextos culturais; Desenvolvimento de um instrumento de análise socioespacial; Definição na amostra de projetos a serem analisados, considerando fases iniciais, intermediárias e finais do processo formativo de arquitetos e urbanistas e considerando duas escalas projetuais, a arquitetônica e a urbanística; Estudo dos projetos e síntese dos resultados; Revisão das categorias de análise e produção de material para o compartilhamento dos resultados da pesquisa. Destacam-se como principais resultados a identificação de todas das categorias analisadas, mesmo que em diferentes níveis de utilização e a relevância da categoria denominada Diálogo e Participação como propulsora da contemplação dos demais aspectos de análise socioespacial considerados.
METODOLOGIA DE ASSISTÊNCIA TÉCNICA EM HABITAÇÃO DE INTERESSE SOCIAL
Authors: Villa Simone , Funari Poliselli Victória
Published: May 2022

O presente artigo trata de parte dos resultados do projeto de extensão/pesquisa “[RES_APO] - Método de Análise da Resiliência e Adaptabilidade em Conjuntos Habitacionais Sociais através da Avaliação Pós-Ocupação e Coprodução”, experiência em Assistência Técnica em Habitação de Interesse Social (ATHIS) da Faculdade de Arquitetura e Urbanismo e Design da Universidade Federal de X, com apoio do Conselho de Arquitetura e Urbanismo de Minas Gerais (CAU-MG). A proposta de pesquisa/extensão parte de um contexto na qual as moradias destinadas a população de baixa renda no programa Minha Casa Minha Vida são inadequadas do ponto de vista funcional, construtivo e ambiental, demonstrando sua baixa resiliência. O rápido crescimento da população urbana e a imprecisão dos programas tanto federais, estaduais quanto municipais de ofertar moradias dignas e resilientes tornam mais que necessárias as ações de assistência técnica, frente às reformas e intervenções cada vez mais frequentes nesses contextos. Assim, o objetivo central desse artigo é abordar a política de assistência técnica e o papel do arquiteto em promover sua implementação, como também dar enfoque ao desenvolvimento da metodologia inovadora de ATHIS, sua implementação e seus resultados através do estudo de caso em empreendimento de habitação social na cidade X. O trabalho, que contempla metodologias de APO como base ao exercício da assistência técnica, tem a intensão de difundir os conhecimentos produzidos por meio da troca de experiências empreendida entre a universidade e a comunidade, através da coprodução.
OMNICHANNEL E RETAIL DESIGN
Authors: Souza da Silva Rodrigo , César Rocha Barreto Augusto
Published: May 2022

O retail design é reconhecido como uma disciplina recente, iniciada por volta dos anos 1960, num setor que é caracterizado pela intuição, improvisação e imitação, como o varejo. O rápido avanço das tecnologias digitais tem proporcionado ciclos cada vez menores de mudança do comportamento do consumidor, e com isso, custos e riscos maiores para fabricantes e varejistas. Neste processo, que tem ocorrido de maneira muito sensível nos negócios e na sociedade, tem se questionado o papel da loja física e qual perfil, competências e habilidades do profissional que desenvolve esse novo ambiente de varejo. É neste contexto que o objetivo desta pesquisa consiste em configurar um modelo de desenvolvimento e aplicação de conceitos de omnichannel e retail design em ambientes de varejo. Com abordagem de pesquisa qualitativa relaciona-se os processos e fenômenos existentes na loja física e na área de omnichannel, retail design, marketing, branding, varejo, economia e administração. Por meio de pesquisa explicativa, há a investigação da relação entre a estratégia omnichannel, branding, retail design e experiência do cliente com a loja física. O modelo gerado utiliza das ferramentas, conceitos e processo encontrados durante a pesquisa, e tem como intenção orientar arquitetos e designers no desenvolvimento de projetos de ambientes de varejo contemporâneos alinhados à estratégia omnichannel que tragam resultados mais assertivos às empresas considerando seus planejamentos estratégicos.
AVALIAÇÃO DE ESTRATÉGIAS BIOCLIMÁTICAS APLICADAS EM HABITAÇÃO DE INTERESSE SOCIAL PÓS PANDEMIA
Authors: PEIXOTO FILGUEIRAS FARO ANDREA CARLA , CASTRO RENATA TORRES SARMENTO DE , LAURENTINO DA SILVA NAYANE
Published: May 2022

Com o surgimento do novo coronavírus e o consequente isolamento social para combater sua proliferação, percebeu-se que as Habitações de Interesse Social (HIS) nem sempre se adequam às necessidades do usuário. Assim, o objetivo deste artigo é propor adaptações arquitetônicas em um modelo padrão de HIS com intuito de atender às exigências pós-pandemia e as estratégias bioclimáticas para regiões da Zona Bioclimática 8 e comparar a avaliação deste novo modelo com um modelo de HIS padrão atual. A metodologia foi dividida em três etapas. A primeira consistiu na definição do padrão de HIS e adaptações arquitetônicas propostas pós-pandemia. A segunda foi uma avaliação e análise de acordo com o método prescritivo do RTQ-R sobre a eficiência energética dos dois modelos (padrão e adaptado). E a terceira etapa consistiu na verificação do desempenho da ventilação natural e do sombreamento para ambos modelos. Constatou-se que houve uma melhoria na pontuação dos quartos no modelo adaptado, chegando a mudar de classificação positivamente. Tanto a HIS padrão quanto a HIS adaptada alcançaram classificação final C, contudo a HIS adaptada obteve melhor pontuação em relação ao modelo padrão. Em relação ao desempenho da ventilação natural e do sombreamento, percebeu-se que houveram melhorias com o aumento das aberturas e dos beirais da cobertura, destacando a importância de sombrear locais de clima quente para redução do calor, contudo mantendo a incidência solar de forma mais branda como forma de combate à umidade e melhoria do sistema imunológico dos habitantes, aspecto bastante importante no período de pandemia.
Age Related Senescence, Apoptosis, and Inflammation Profiles in
Periodontal Ligament Cells from Canine Teeth
Authors: Zayed Mohammed , Iohara Koichiro
Published: May 2022

Objective:

The periapical tissues, including periodontal ligament cells
(PDLCs) play an important role in repairing the surrounding tissue of the teeth. A
decrease in the regenerative potentiality of resident stem cells (PDLCs) has been
suggested to be attributed to the decline of pulp regeneration. Therefore, examining the
functional changes in periodontal tissue and cells that occur during the aging process is
necessary.

Methods:

The changes in the cementum extract (CE) and PDLCs isolated from young
and aged dog teeth were evaluated. PDLCs growth rate, senescence markers, p16 and
p21, and proinflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, were analyzed by RT-PCR.
Bax, an apoptosis marker, Bcl-2, a marker for cell survival, and IL-6 were examined by
Western blot analyses to detect their variance expression in the CE.

Results:

Our results demonstrated that aged PDLCs exhibit a low growth rate and an
increased expression of p16; however, no change has been demonstrated in the
expression of p21. The chronic inflammatory molecules, IL-6 and TNF-α, were
significantly upregulated compared to young PDLCs. Western blot analyses showed
decreased expression of Bcl-2 in the CE of the aged tooth (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Taken together, aging influences the functional changes of PDLCs and CE
and increases senescence, chronic inflammation, and apoptosis markers. As a result,
donor age is a key factor influencing the utilization of PDLCs for tooth regeneration.
Hypoxic Gas Therapy in Neonatology: Considerations in Practice
Authors: Socarras Jorge Luis Alvarado , Martin Delia Edith Theurel , Hernández Edgar Fabian Manrique
Published: May 2022

Background:

Adequate oxygenation is essential for sick newborns. Each disease determines
the target of oxygenation. Nevertheless, hyperoxia and hypoxia are related to adverse outcomes.
Most studies related to this aspect have been conducted in preterm infants or term babies with pulmonary
pathology.

Introduction:

Congenital heart diseases may also require careful oxygenation control and management
of oxygen supply.

Problem:

Presurgical stabilization of complex heart diseases (CHD) may be difficult, especially after
the physiological decrease of pulmonary resistance, which generates pulmonary edema (due to overcirculation)
and systemic hypoperfusion. Several strategies have been described to avoid this phenomenon,
such as prostaglandin, vasodilators, inotropes, positive airway pressure, and even hypoxic mixture
(inspired fraction of oxygen (FiO2) below 21%).

Discussion:

The latter therapy is mainly used in single ventricular physiology heart diseases, such as
the hypoplasic left heart syndrome (HLHS) or systemic ductus-dependent flow CHD (interruption of
the aortic arch and coarctation of the aorta). Alveolar oxygen affects pulmonary vascular resistance
modifying lung flow. This modification could help the stabilization during the presurgical period of
complex CDH. Many centers use hypoxic therapy to avoid hypotension, metabolic acidosis, coronarycerebral
ischemia, and liver, renal and intestinal injury. Despite the theoretical benefits, there are
doubts about how tissue oxygen supply would change during hypoxic gas ventilation. It is worrisome
that FiO2 < 21% causes a decrease in brain oxygenation, adding neurological injury as a complication
to the already established disease of CHD and other not modifiable factors. Brain monitoring through
near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) during hypoxic gas therapy is mandatory. Recent studies have
shown that hypoxic gas ventilation therapy in patients with HLHS in the preoperative period decreases
the ratio between systemic and pulmonary circulation (Qp/Qs) but does not improve regional oxygenation
delivery. The use of hypoxic gas ventilation therapy continues to be controversial. It could be
an option in some complex CHD, mainly HLHS.
Computer-Aided Identification of Cholinergic and Monoaminergic Inhibitory Flavonoids from Hibiscus sabdariffa L.
Authors: Falade Ayodeji Osmund , Adewole Kayode Ezekiel , Gyebi Gideon Ampoma , Ishola Ahmed Adebayo
Published: May 2022

Background:

The reduced levels of acetylcholine and dopamine lead to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease PD, respectively, due to the action of cholinesterase and monoamine oxidase B.

Methods:

Therapeutic options for AD and PD involve respective cholinergic and monoaminergic inhibitors, and considering the adverse outcomes of cholinergic- and monoaminergic- inhibitory therapeutics, phytoconstituents may be promising alternatives. Reports have shown that different extracts of the calyx of Hibiscus sabdariffa exhibit anticholinesterase and monoamine oxidase B inhibitory properties with the potential to delay and prevent the development of AD and PD. However, there is limited knowledge on the multitarget cholinergic and monoaminergic inhibitory activities of individual compounds in this plant. Computational methods were used to identify the specific compounds responsible for the observed cholinergic and monoaminergic inhibitory activities of the H. sabdariffa calyx extracts.

Results:

Results confirm that three flavonoids: delphinidin-3-sambubioside, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside and quercetin-3-rutinoside showed strong binding affinity with acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase B while the observed stability of the ligands-enzymes complexes over the MD simulation time suggests their cholinergic and monoaminergic inhibitory properties.

Conclusion:

The three flavonoids may be responsible for the reported anticholinergic and monoaminergic inhibitory potentials of H. sabdariffa extracts and could be enlisted as multi-target inhibitory agents for cholinesterases and monoamine oxidase B.
Synthesis, Docking Studies, and Biological Evaluation of Betti Bases as
Promising Anti-tubercular Agents
Authors: Acharya Poornima , Ramana Mucheli Muni Venkata , Korgavkar Nilesh , Pavale Ganesh , Upadhyay Manish
Published: May 2022

Background:

The occurrence of Tuberculosis (TB) has significantly increased worldwide. The
extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) and multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) have
made it more challenging to treat this mycobacterial infection caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis
MTB-H37Rv strain. The present treatments for tuberculosis are of long duration and with side effects.
Thus, it is necessary to discover new drugs with short-term chemotherapy, fewer health hazards, and cost
effectiveness.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to divulge the antitubercular properties of Betti base scaffolds.

Method:

Betti bases were designed, synthesized 4a-4h, 6a-6h, and investigated for their in vitro antitubercular
activity using Microplate Alamar Blue assay (MABA) against the MTB-H37Rv strain. Their
binding affinity with amino acids was studied by performing molecular docking studies using InhA (PDB
ID: 2NSD) present in the MTB-H37Rv strain. Cytotoxicity assay and neutrophil function test (NFT) were
also performed.

Results:

The Betti bases (4a-4h, 6d) showed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging
from 1.6 μg/mL to 6.25 μg/mL against the MTB-H37Rv strain. The compounds (4a-4h, 6a-6h) were investigated
for their ADME properties and good pharmacokinetic profiles were observed. In molecular
docking studies, a strong binding affinity between InhA and the compounds (4a-4h, 6a-6h) was observed,
which provided theoretical insight into the inhibitory action of the synthesized compounds (4a-4h, 6a-6h)
against InhA. NFT of the compounds (4a-4h, 6a-6h) showed no harmful effects on the functions of neutrophils.
In vitro cytotoxicity assay against Vero cell lines revealed the non-cytotoxic behavior of the
compounds.

Conclusion:

Betti bases can be considered to be a promising class of molecular entities that can lead to
the development of new anti-tubercular leads.
Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacological Status of Asthma
Authors: Garg Ruchika , Piplani Mona , Singh Yogendra , Joshi Yogesh
Published: May 2022

Abstrtact:

Asthma, a common respiratory disorder with frequent blowout following a characteristic spread pattern is vibrant in India. Respiratory disorders are the leading cause of death worldwide. `1 In India, asthma is more prominent especially in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh of the North India region. In this review, our main focus is to study the drug therapy for the asthma and its complications. The present paper illustrates the epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, mechanism of airway inflammation, classification, and diagnosis of asthma. We have also compiled the data of asthma in Northern India, state-wise for the last five years. Diagnosis and management of asthma are also described as per the guidelines of various agencies, i.e., NICE/BTS/SIGN and WHO.
Tools for Quality of Life Assessment during Pregnancy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Mitta Kyriaki , Mintziori Gesthimani , Mastorakos George , Taousani Eleftheria , Tzitiridou Maria , Goulis Dimitrios G.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Pregnancy is a period of physiological and hormonal alterations that can
decrease the quality of life (QoL). Women’s subjective perception of QoL is clinically relevant for
assessing the effectiveness of interventions and identifying susceptibility to depression.

Objective:

This review aims to identify, present, and critically appraise the assessment tools of QoL
during pregnancy.

Methods:

A narrative review of the English-language literature was conducted through the PubMed,
CENTRAL, Scopus, and Google Scholar electronic databases.

Conclusion:

Several generic instruments have been proposed, such as pregnancy-specific and disease-
specific questionnaires concerning common diseases during pregnancy. Plasma, salivary and
hair cortisol, inflammatory, genetic and epigenetic biomarkers and gut microbiome have also been
investigated as potential indicators of maternal anxiety. Their use can quantify the association between
pregnancy-specific anxiety and QoL. Application of validated assessment tools of QoL during
pregnancy could improve QoL, maternal health interventions, and early identification of susceptibility
to maternal depression.
Influence of Zinc Oxide Nanostructure Morphology on its Photocatalytic
Properties
Authors: Padalkar Sonal , Fallatah Ahmad , Kuku Mohammed , Almomtan Mohammed , Whale Alison
Published: May 2022

Background:

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a transparent oxide material with a theoretical
bandgap of 3.4 eV, which finds potential applications, including transistors, varistors, solar cells,
and other solar applications. The properties of ZnO can be manipulated by controlling its morphology.

Methods:

The orientation and well-defined nanostructures can be obtained by controlling the
growth rates of various ZnO facets by utilizing appropriate capping agents. Here, we report the
electrodeposition of ZnO nanostructured thin films in the presence of various capping agents to
obtain different ZnO morphologies. The electrodeposition of ZnO nanostructures was carried out
on an indium doped tin oxide (ITO) with a glass substrate by using a zinc nitrate (Zn (NO3)2)
bath at 70 °C and an applied potential of -1.0 V. To this zinc nitrate bath, capping agents like
ammonium fluoride (NH4F) or ethylenediamine (EDA) were added to obtain different ZnO
morphologies. These various ZnO morphologies were characterized by scanning electron microscopy.

Results:

The composition of the nanostructures was analyzed by X-ray diffraction. The photoelectrochemical
(PEC) properties of these ZnO nanostructures were measured using a PEC cell.

Conclusion:

The PEC properties were influenced by different ZnO morphologies.
Statins Enhance the Potency of First Line Anti-Helicobacter Regimens to
that of Second Line Regimens
Authors: Ahmadpour Sajjad , Khodadadi Javad , Hormati Ahmad , Rezaei Zeynab , Sivandzadeh Gholam Reza , Saeidi Mohammad , Jafari Elham , Mohammadbeigi Abolfazl
Published: May 2022

Background:

Infection-related to Helicobacter pylori (HP) is one of the most common human
bacterial infections, affecting about 50% of the human population. This bacterium causes chronic inflammation
and eventually mucosal gastric metaplasia. Antibiotics are commonly used to eradicate Helicobacter
pylori infection. Presumably, statins could increase the effectiveness of anti-HP regimens because
of some anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties attributed to these anti-lipidemic agents.

Methods:

Two hundred patients with both gastrointestinal symptoms and positive urease test were included.
Patients were randomly divided into two equal groups with 100 cases. One group received
pantoprazole 40 mg, twice per day (BD) + atorvastatin 40 mg, daily + bismuth subcitrate 240 mg, BD
+ Amoxicillin 1 g, BD + Levofloxacin 500 mg, daily and the other one received pantoprazole 40 mg
BD + atorvastatin 40 mg, daily + bismuth subcitrate 240 mg, BD + Amoxicillin 1 g, BD + Clarithromycin
(Fromilid) 500 mg, BD for two weeks. A stool antigen test for HP was performed one month
after drug treatment ended, and the results were compared.

Results:

According to our findings, eradication of HP infection in both groups was 87%, and there was
no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p-value = 1).

Conclusion:

The current study highlighted that adding atorvastatin to the first line anti-HP infection
regimen could increase the potency and efficacy of the regimen to that of second-line regimen. Moreover,
the addition of atorvastatin to the second line regimen did not bear any beneficial effect.

Trial registration number:

The Ethics Committee of Qom University of Medical Sciences approved the
study protocol (ethical code: IR.MUQ.REC.1399.082); the study was also registered in the Iranian Registry
of Clinical Trials (No. IRCT20200929048884N1). This study adheres to CONSORT guidelines.
Synergism Effect of Dendrobine on Cisplatin in Treatment of H1299 by Modulating
the Balance of Treg/Th17
Authors: Hou Peifeng , Luo Yang , Liu Gaohua
Published: May 2022

Background:

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for about 80% of lung cancers. Cisplatin is a
broad-spectrum anti-cancer drug and is often used in combination with other drugs. Research suggests that dendrobine,
a pyrrolizidine derivative alkaloid, exhibits antitumor activity in various cancers. This study explores the effect of
dendrobine combined with cisplatin on NSCLC and its underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods:

The effects of dendrobine combined with cisplatin on tumor progression were evaluated by xenograft model
(in vivo) and clonogenic survival assay (in vitro) using H1299 cell line. Annexin V staining was used for detecting
apoptotic cells. The population of T cells, B cells and other subpopulations in the peripheral blood was determined by
flow cytometry.

Results:

Dendrobine combined with cisplatin prolonged the survival of mice implanted with H1299 cells and reduced
tumor volume compared with single drug application. However, dendrobine exhibited no effect on H1299 cells in
clonal survival assays with or without cisplatin treatment and did not promote cisplatin-induced apoptosis in vitro.
Importantly, dendrobine suppressed the regulatory T cells (Treg cells) and enhanced the T helper 17 cells (Th17 cells).
Treatment of dendrobine significantly reduced Foxp3, and increased the level of IL-17 in serum.

Conclusion:

Dendrobine displayed a synergistic effect with cisplatin to exert anti-tumor effect in vivo, which might be
achieved by modulating the balance of Treg/Th17 cells rather than regulating cell apoptosis.
Epidemiological Study of COVID-19 in Iran and the World: A Review Study
Authors: Ansari Nasges , Shokri Samira , Pirhadi Mohadeseh , Abbaszadeh Saber , Manouchehri Aliasghar
Published: May 2022

Covid-19 is a new virus of the Coronaviridae family that is now spreading worldwide. Therefore, disseminating information about patients with the virus can help identify the virus, pathogenesis, and find treatments. The current study aimed to review the new coronavirus (Covid-19). To reach this aim, we searched keywords containing Covid-19, coronavirus, respiratory infection, epidemiology in Pub Med, Web of Science Direct, Scopus, Scientific Information Databases, and Google scholar. The results of our study led to the achievement of articles on the study of Covid-19. Based on the results of the study, Covid-19 is a global transmitter with rapid transmission power for which no specific drug has yet been found to treat it. The rapid spread of the Covid-19 virus, the relationship between disease severity and mortality with various factors, respiratory transmission, especially in the short distance, masks, hand washing, and physical distance observance as the most important way to prevent, diversify clinical symptoms and at the same time fever and cough as the most common clinical symptoms, treatment with non-specific antiviral drugs and treatment based on controlling clinical symptoms and strengthening immunity with known drugs, paying attention to children as asymptomatic carriers, and pretentious pregnancy in the event of Covid-19 are the most important findings of this study. The case fatality rate of Covid-19 has varied from 0.08% to 10.8% in the world, but fortunately, the number of patients who have recovered is very promising and more than 66 million people have recovered. There is still no effective drug or vaccine to prevent the disease and investigation in this field is ongoing. The only way to prevent and control the disease is adherence to the health protocols. Due to the need of the medical community to achieve the scientific results of this epidemic in Iran and other parts of the world, this article was written.
Patients’ Sense of Security in Shahroud (Northeast Iran) Hospitals
Authors: Amiri Mohammad , Khosravi Ahmad , Raei Mehdi
Published: May 2022

Background:

Sense of security is a psychosocial phenomenon that can impact the satisfaction and health of individuals. This study aimed to determine the factors that can affect the patient's sense of security.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 800 patients from governmental and nongovernmental hospitals were randomly selected in 2018 using an 84-item questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.

Results:

The mean score obtained in dimensions of provided services was 41.63±9.95, psychological factors 27.44±5.68, financial factors 13.23±4.06 discipline factors 13.62±4.10, provided clinical services 87.11±16.81, and hoteling factors 74.64±16.79. Overall scores categorization showed 18(2.2), 144(18.0), and 638(79.8%) had a poor, moderate, and good sense of security, respectively. Chi-square test showed a significant association between patients' sense of security levels and the type of hospitals (P = 0.001). The overall satisfaction score for patients was 22.23±5.79. There was a significant relationship between patients’ satisfaction and their sense of security. In the final model, the medical and hoteling factors had the greatest impact on patients’ sense of security.

Conclusion:

Regarding the mutual effect of the sense of security and patients’ satisfaction and noticing that more than 20% of the patients had moderate and low levels of sense of security, paying more attention to hoteling factors and providing more insurance protection to the low-income strata can play a major role in improving patients’ sense of security.
MicroRNA-Based Biomarkers in Lung Cancer: Recent Advances
and Potential Applications
Authors: Shanehbandi Dariush , Asadi Milad , Seyedrezazadeh Ensiyeh , Zafari Venus , Shekari Najibeh , Akbari Mortaza , Rahbarnia Leila , Zarredar Habib
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small noncoding RNAs
(ncRNAs) that post-transcriptionally control the expression of genes by binding and
degrading their target mRNAs. miRNAs can function as possible tumor suppressors or
oncogenes in various cancers. Lately, miRNAs application as a biomarker (prognosis
and diagnosis) for different diseases has gained much attention. miRNAs exist in a
stable form in several biological materials, including tissue, plasma, and serum. The
noninvasive and easy screening of miRNAs in serum, blood, tissue, and other body
fluids and acceptable stability make microRNA a noticeable factor as biomarkers in
human malignancies.

Material and Methods:

In this review, we searched some online databases like Web
of Science, Embase, and PubMed to find eligible manuscripts up to the end of 2021.

Results:

Abnormal expressions of these molecules are associated with the incidence of
many illnesses like cancer. Therefore, they are candidates as a molecular tool for
noninvasive tumor prognosis and diagnosis. In the current study, we introduce important
miRNAs that may be used as prognostic and diagnostic markers in lung cancer patients.

Conclusion:

We summarized the latest reports about critical miRNAs related to the
diagnosis and prognosis in lung patients.
Comparison of Aspirin and P2Y12 Inhibitors for Secondary Prevention of
Ischaemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Niu Xiaoyuan , Zhang Kaili , Wang Yongle , Liu Tingting
Published: May 2022

Background:

P2Y12 inhibitors have been widely used as an alternative to aspirin in clinical
practice for secondary stroke prevention. We aimed to compare the efficiency and safety of P2Y12 inhibitors
and aspirin for stroke prevention in patients with previous stroke or transient ischaemic attack
(TIA).

Methods:

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched. All
randomized trials that compared P2Y12 inhibitors with aspirin among patients with stroke were included.
The primary efficacy outcomes of our meta-analysis included stroke, vascular events, and all-cause
death. The primary safety outcome was minor or major bleeding events.

Results:

The search identified 4 randomized clinical trials comparing P2Y12 inhibitors with aspirin for
secondary stroke prevention that collectively enrolled 24508 patients (12253 received P2Y12 inhibitor
and 12255 received aspirin). Pooled results from the random-effects model showed that there were no
significant differences in the risk of any stroke (OR 0.90 (0.78-1.04); I²=56.9%), vascular event (OR
0.91 (0.74-1.13); I²=78.3%), all-cause death (OR 0.98 (0.83-1.17); I²=0%), or minor or major bleeding
(OR 1.13 (0.70-1.82); I²=79%) among patients who received a P2Y12 inhibitor or aspirin. P2Y12 inhibitors
were associated with a significantly lower risk of recurrent ischaemic stroke (OR 0.84 (0.73-
0.96); I²=25%) than aspirin.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis suggests that P2Y12 inhibitors are more effective than aspirin in preventing
recurrent ischaemic stroke among ischaemic stroke patients despite the absence of any effect
on a new ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke, a new clinical vascular event, all-cause death, and major
or minor bleeding events.