bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In silico pharmacology and bioavailability of bioactive constituents from Triclisia subcordata (Oliv), an underutilized medicinal plant in Nigeria
Authors: Ogunlakin Akingbolabo Daniel , Onifade Taiwo Rukayat , Gyebi Gideon Ampoma , Obafemi Blessing Ariyo , Ojo Oluwafemi Adeleke
Published: April 2023

Medicinal plants are rich sources of traditional medicines from which many modern medicines are made. Triclisia subcordata Oliv. is one among the underutilized medicinal plants in the Southwestern part of Nigeria. Therefore, this study was designed to present comprehensive data from the literature on pharmacological uses of T. subcordata and its phytochemistry, and to predict the pharmacology and bioavailability of the phytoconstituents isolated so far from Triclisia subcordata through an in silico approach. T. subcordata has high antioxidant activity and so it isthus used to treat oxidative stress-related diseases such as inflammation and diabetes. It also has antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial and smooth muscle relaxing properties. It is a potent inhibitor of enzymes such as alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase. It has also traditionally been used in cancer treatment. One of the bisbenzylisoquinoline (BBIQ) alkaloids isolated from this plant, cycleanine, showed selectivity for ovarian cancer cell lines. The presence of phytochemicals such as cyanogenic glycosides and tannins in low concentrations in T. subcordata has also been reported to make it edible to humans. The results of predicted absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity was analyzed on the webserver ’ADEMTLab 2.0‘ . Prediction of activity studies for the four bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids isolated so far from this plant supported anticancer, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antiulcer, antimalarial activities as well as muscle relaxant effect. Moreover, new activities including stimulation of leukopoiesis, inhibition of membrane permeability , inhibition of kinase and nicotinic alpha4beta4 receptor agonist properties were also predicted through in silico investigation. From our findings, these phytoconstituents could be lead candidates in drug discovery, since this plant is safe for human consumption.
Physiological and biochemical responses of Jew’s mallow (Corchorus olitorius L.) to foliar spray of nanosized ZnO
Authors: Abdel-RahmanIsmaiel Shimaa
Published: April 2023

Despite the positive impact of nanomaterials on agriculture and crop productivity, this effect is not always positive. A pot experiment was undertaken to spot the effect of nanosized ZnO on the physiological and biochemical attributes of Jew’s mallow (Corchorus olitorius L.) by foliar spray applied at three concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mg L-1) in addition to the control. All concentrations, especially 100 mg L-1 of ZnO significantly increased (p?0.05) plant growth parameters, compared to the control. Protein, carbohydrates and fibers were increased after the application of ZnO NPs by 47, 77 and 94% respectively while fat was not changed. Likewise, significant variations in element contents (N, P, K, Zn and Fe) occurred following the nanosized ZnO application. Moreover, nanosized ZnO induced the activity of catalase and ascorbate peroxidase enzymes and the highest levels were (0.82 and 3.14 U g-1 FW min-1 respectively) recorded at 100 mg L-1of ZnO whereas, causing inhibition in H2O2 and lipid peroxidation content by (9.3 and 31.6 % respectively). Hence, nanosized ZnO can improve plant growth and the nutritive value of Jew’s mallo and can induce tolerance of the plant against oxidative stress.
Changes of photosynthetic pigments of Artemisia diffusa under the influence of grazing stress of livestock grazing in Karnabchul semi-desert, Uzbekistan
Authors: Valiyev Shuhrat , Rajabov Toshpulot , Avutkhonov Burkhan , Ataeva Shohira
Published: April 2023

On the transformed natural rangelands of Karnabchul desert, the natural Artemisia diffusa studied four different grazing intensities the change in the amount of photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids). It was found that the amount of A. diffusa pigments also increased with increasing stress levels in livestock grazing. In general, different grazing intensities had a different impact on the morphological and physiological traits of plants, especially their photosynthetic pigments.
Comparison between free β subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and total hCG assays in adults with testicular cancer
Authors: Pretorius Carel J. , Wilgen Urs , Klingberg Sandra , Zournazi Anna , Sanders Linda , Ungerer Jacobus P.J.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

We tested the hypothesis that the free-β subunit (βhCG) is diagnostically more sensitive with total hCG assays (hCGt) not detecting all tumours secreting βhCG. The effects of sex, age, and renal failure were investigated as secondary objectives.

Methods

We compared βhCG with hCGt in 204 testicular cancer patients (99 seminomas, 105 non-seminonatous germ cell tumours). The effects of sex and age were determined in 125 male and 138 female controls and that of renal failure was investigated in 119 haemodialysis patients. Biochemical assessment of gonadal status was performed with LH, FSH, oestradiol and testosterone.

Results

Discordant results were common with isolated increases of hCGt observed in 32 (15.7 %) and βhCG in 14 (6.9 %) patients. Primary hypogonadism was the most common cause of isolated hCGt increases. After therapeutic interventions βhCG decreased below its upper reference more rapidly than hCGt. We observed unequivocal false negative results in two patients with non-seminomatous germ cell tumours. Both occurred in patients with clinical tumour recurrences; in one instance we observed a false negative hCGt while in the second false negative βhCG’s were documented in serial samples.

Conclusions

The similar false negative rates did not support the hypothesis that βhCG will detect more patients with testicular cancer than hCGt. In contrast to hCGt, βhCG was unaffected by primary hypogonadism which is a predictably frequent complication in testicular cancer patients. We therefore recommend βhCG as the preferred biomarker in testicular cancer.
Model-based evaluation of heat of combustion using the degree of reduction
Authors: Shokrkar Hanieh , Ebrahimi Sirous
Published: April 2023

In this study, the degree of reduction has been proposed to evaluate the heat of combustion in eight structural groups. The degree of reduction is commonly used in microbiology as a valuable tool to calculate the stoichiometry of process reactions. The degree of reduction model provides a simple, direct, and single-step technique for calculating the heat of combustion. The results from the degree of reduction model revealed that predicted values are in good agreement with results obtained using bond energies, with an average error of less than 2 %. Also, the computational method applied in this study can calculate the heat of combustion for other organic compounds and even unknown chemical compounds by measuring chemical oxygen demand (COD).
The Dynamic Capabilities of High-Turbulent Markets: Indonesian Start-Up Cases During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Handoko Indria , Tjaturpriono Hendro Adiarso
Published: April 2023

This study explores how start-ups manage high-turbulent markets during the first six-months of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how dynamic capabilities are operationalized in that situation. A multiple-case study approach was employed to investigate eight start-up cases in Indonesia. Indonesia was chosen to represent an emerging economy with a tremendous growing number of start-ups. The data are presented based on the evolving circumstances of the COVID-19 crisis. The research findings illustrate how dynamic capabilities are operationalized simultaneously with the validation of adjusted business models through simple-experiential routines, iterative executions, and action-oriented processes amidst the high-turbulent markets. Dynamic capabilities that operate in full combination by sensing, seizing, and transforming capabilities potentially can facilitate the creation of values for firms faster than otherwise. This study also identifies specific elements and alignment mechanisms incorporated in the dynamic capabilities.
Power of testing for exposure effects under incomplete mediation
Authors: Zhou Ruixuan R. , Zucker David M. , Zhao Sihai D.
Published: April 2023

Mediation analysis studies situations where an exposure may affect an outcome both directly and indirectly through intervening variables called mediators. It is frequently of interest to test for the effect of the exposure on the outcome, and the standard approach is simply to regress the latter on the former. However, it seems plausible that a more powerful test statistic could be achieved by also incorporating the mediators. This would be useful in cases where the exposure effect size might be small, which for example is common in genomics applications. Previous work has shown that this is indeed possible under complete mediation, where there is no direct effect. In most applications, however, the direct effect is likely nonzero. In this paper we study linear mediation models and find that under certain conditions, power gain is still possible under this incomplete mediation setting for testing the null hypothesis that there is neither a direct nor an indirect effect. We study a class of procedures that can achieve this performance and develop their application to both low- and high-dimensional mediators. We then illustrate their performances in simulations as well as in an analysis using DNA methylation mediators to study the effect of cigarette smoking on gene expression.
Influence of different visible LED light sources on photo-degradation of red cabbage extract
Authors: Thasak Sirinapa , Arellano Camella Anne , Khumsap Tabkrich , Nguyen Loc Thai
Published: April 2023

This study elucidated the effect of wavelength, radiant fluence, and pH on the photobleaching of red cabbage extracts (RCE). Light-induced degradation of anthocyanins (ACN), color, total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity of RCE was evaluated. Blue light was found to have the most detrimental effect on red cabbage ACN, followed by white and green lights. The photo-degradation increased with pH and radiant fluence. The highest loss of ACN was estimated at pH 7, being about 91 %, 76 %, and 54 % under blue, white, and green light, respectively. Color attributes and antioxidant activity of the samples showed similar trends. The photo-degradation quantum yield was higher under blue light (pH 3: 0.46 × 10−4 mol einstein−1; pH 5: 4.5 × 10−4 mol einstein−1; pH 7: 4.5 × 10−4 mol einstein−1) than under other irradiations. The findings can help industrial processors devise suitable strategies to minimize the degradation of ACN under LED illumination.
Image-schema-based-instruction enhanced L2 construction learning with the optimal balance between attention to form and meaning
Authors: Hwang Hyun-Bin
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the effectiveness of L2 instruction on the learning of English caused-motion constructions (e.g., Jane put the balls into the box, Harry swam Peter to the beach). Korean EFL high school students (N = 156) were randomly assigned to three instructional conditions and one control group. While the metalanguage group relied on explicit uses of grammar jargon, the input flood group read narrative stories in which the instances of a prototypical verb were presented with higher frequency than other verbs. The image-schema group, which adopted a balanced approach to form and meaning attention, studied the core meaning of the target construction. Mixed-effects logistic regressions on Korean-to-English translation tests revealed that the image-schema group was most effective in terms of learnability and generalizability. The benefits of image-schema-based instruction were attributed to simultaneous attention to form and meaning, which might lead to deeper processing. Image-schema-based-instruction is discussed as a viable alternative for L2 construction learning.
A multi-crop disease identification approach based on residual attention learning
Authors: Kirti  , Rajpal Navin
Published: April 2023

In this work, a technique is proposed to identify the diseases that occur in plants. The system is based on a combination of residual network and attention learning. The work focuses on disease identification from the images of four different plant types by analyzing leaf images of the plants. A total of four datasets are used for the work. The system incorporates attention-aware features computed by the Residual Attention Network (Res-ATTEN). The base of the network is ResNet-18 architecture. Integrating attention learning in the residual network helps improve the system's overall accuracy. Various residual attention units are combined to create a single architecture. Unlike the traditional attention network architectures, which focus only on a single type of attention, the system uses a mixed type of attention learning, i.e., a combination of spatial and channel attention. Our technique achieves state-of-the-art performance with the highest accuracy of 99%. The results show that the proposed system has performed well for both purposes and notably outperformed the traditional systems.
Influence of pre-deformation on fatigue life of high strength steels by means of micromagnetic Barkhausen noise
Authors: Sarafraz Yashar , Brink Malte , Baak Nikolas , Koch Alexander , Walther Frank
Published: April 2023

The micromagnetic Barkhausen noise as a nondestructive testing method was employed in this work to analyze the fatigue behavior of high-strength steels by subjecting them to multi-stage load increase fatigue tests. The micromagnetic Barkhausen noise energy (MBNEnergy) was measured during fatigue tests and coupled with digital image correlation to evaluate the effect of static and cyclic stress as well as local surface strain on MBNEnergy. The test samples were prepared from the forged bainite 18MnCrMoV6 and two ferrite-pearlite 38MnVS6 and 46MnVS5 steels. A part of the specimens was pre-strained before cyclic loading to analyze the effect of pre-deformation on cyclic strength considering measured MBNEnergy. A significant increase in MBNEnergy was observed by increasing the cyclic load on 18MnCrMoV6 specimens with bainite phases while this increase of MBNEnergy was not significant or was not changed for ferrite-pearlite steels 38MnVS6 and 46MnVS5.
Parametric simulation of hybrid nanofluid flow consisting of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles with second-order slip and variable viscosity over an extending surface
Authors: Murtaza Saqib , Kumam Poom , Bilal Muhammad , Sutthibutpong Thana , Rujisamphan Nopporn , Ahmad Zubair
Published: April 2023

This study explores the unsteady hybrid nanofluid (NF) flow consisting of cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) and copper (Cu) nano particulates with natural convection flow due to an expanding surface implanted in a porous medium. The Cu and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) are added to the base fluid water to synthesize the hybrid NF. The effects of second-order velocity slip condition, chemical reaction, heat absorption/generation, temperature-dependent viscosity, and Darcy Forchheimer are also assessed in the present analysis. An ordinary differential equation system is substituted for the modeled equations of the problem. Further computational processing of the differential equations is performed using the parametric continuation method. A validation and accuracy comparison are performed with the Matlab package BVP4C. Physical constraints are used for presenting and reviewing the outcomes. With the increase in second-order velocity slip condition and unsteady viscosity, the rates of heat and mass transition increase significantly with the variation in Cu and Fe2O4 NPs. The findings suggest that the uses of Cu and Fe2O4 in ordinary fluids might be useful in the aerodynamic extrusion of plastic sheets and extrusion of a polymer sheet from a dye.
Garment buttons from a Hallstatt period tumulus
Authors: Haubner R.
Published: April 2023

A Hallstatt period burial mound (tumulus) in Schandorf, Burgenland, Austria, was opened and archaeologically investigated in 2021. Not only numerous pottery fragments, but also some garment buttons were found, one of which was provided for metallographic examinations, aiming at identifying the method of manufacture: soldering, riveting, casting? Prior to the metallographic examinations, micro-computed tomography (μm CT) was carried out at a resolution of 5 μm. The Figures show that large areas are oxidized. It was, however, found that metallic portions still existed. The overall appearance suggests investment casting as the manufacturing method. Analytical measurements revealed that the material is tin bronze. Despite severe corrosion, the metallographic sections still exhibit a clearly recognizable cast structure. There are presumably two types of corrosion: first, high temperature corrosion, which resulted in the formation of bronze oxides in the grain boundary areas during the cremation, and, second, corrosion in an aqueous environment, during which malachite formed.

So far, no comparable studies can be found in the literature.
A new sphingoid derivative from Acacia hockii De Wild (Fabaceae) with antimicrobial and insecticidal properties
Authors: Anagued Haman Edwige , Moumbon Valéry Paul , Fadimatou spce Abdourahman , Momeni Jean , Ngameni Bathelemy
Published: April 2023

In Cameroon, several species of the genus Acacia are traditionally used for protection in granaries of stored foodstuffs such as cowpeas, maize and millet. The literature review on Acacia hockii made it possible to detect that few studies were carried out on this plant which would traditionally have the properties we seek. The objective of this work is to extract and isolate the active principles and then evaluate the insecticidal and antifungal activities of the extracts and compounds isolated from the fruits of A. hockii. The maceration method was used to obtain hexane, acetone and methanol extracts of A. hockii fruits which were used against adults of Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae), a pest of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). The most active extract was fractionated by column chromatography and the compounds were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The well-scattering method was used for evaluating the antifungal activity. The results show that all extracts were active against adults of C. maculatus and that the acetone extract was the most active with a 100% mortality rate at the concentration of 0.500 mg/mL and an LD50 of 0.06 g per gram of cowpea. The antifungal activity test of the acetone extract showed sensitivity against all tested strains Fusarium solani, Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum with MIC of 0.0625; 0.500 mg/mL, respectively. Fractionation of this extract led to the isolation of four compounds, among β-stigmasterol and β-sitosterol, β-stigmasterol-3β-O-D-glucopyranoside and N-((2S,3S,4R,14E)-1,3,4-trihydroxyicos-14-en-2-yl)palmitamide, a new sphingolipid with insecticidal and moderate antibacterial activities. A. hockii fruits can be considered a potential source for the production of biopesticides.
The transcriptional co‐activator Yap1 promotes adult hippocampal neural stem cell activation
Authors: Fan Wenqiang , Jurado‐Arjona Jerónimo , Alanis‐Lobato Gregorio , Péron Sophie , Berger Christian , Andrade‐Navarro Miguel A , Falk Sven , Berninger Benedikt
Published: April 2023

Most adult hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs) remain quiescent, with only a minor portion undergoing active proliferation and neurogenesis. The molecular mechanisms that trigger the transition from quiescence to activation are still poorly understood. Here, we found the activity of the transcriptional co‐activator Yap1 to be enriched in active NSCs. Genetic deletion of Yap1 led to a significant reduction in the relative proportion of active NSCs, supporting a physiological role of Yap1 in regulating the transition from quiescence to activation. Overexpression of wild‐type Yap1 in adult NSCs did not induce NSC activation, suggesting tight upstream control mechanisms, but overexpression of a gain‐of‐function mutant (Yap1‐5SA) elicited cell cycle entry in NSCs and hilar astrocytes. Consistent with a role of Yap1 in NSC activation, single cell RNA sequencing revealed a partial induction of an activated NSC gene expression program. Furthermore, Yap1‐5SA expression also induced expression of Taz and other key components of the Yap/Taz regulon that were previously identified in glioblastoma stem cell‐like cells. Consequently, dysregulated Yap1 activity led to repression of hippocampal neurogenesis, aberrant cell differentiation, and partial acquisition of a glioblastoma stem cell‐like signature.
Case–Study as One of the Innovative Educational Technologies and Its Use in Biology Classes
Authors: Gniezdilova Victoria , Mykytyn Tetiana
Published: April 2023

Today, the Ukrainian education system is undergoing important large-scale transformations. Students of modern schools are required, as the main result of education, to master a set of universal learning activities that allow them to set and solve the most important life tasks that they may face directly in adult life. So, for example, in relation to different sections of biology, students must understand: what the subject teaches them, why they need biology, how the studied concepts are related to practical tasks and everyday life.

In this regard, a new approach to the construction of the content of education, as well as to the use of modern educational technologies of learning, is envisaged. As you know, one of such effective technologies is life-situational learning using the case-study method. Active use of case-study in education began relatively recently, and now this approach has become one of the most effective learning technologies. This method confirms the didactic significance and relevance of the use of case technology in the process of teaching biology as an effective means of increasing students' biological knowledge. Teachers highlight a number of advantages of the case-study compared to traditional teaching methods: practical orientation, interactive format, development of soft skills of students. Scientists have developed several classifications of cases. But, despite the variety of cases, they all have a typical structure, which includes: a plot part, a methodological part, and an informational part.

The article examines the features of the case-study and the possibilities of its application at biology lessons. Samples of cases from the "Human Anatomy" course are also offered.
Current Parents and Children's Leisure Time
Authors: Mendelová Eleonóra , Gužíková Libuša
Published: April 2023

This paper presents research focused on investigating contemporary parents and selected aspects of their influence on children's leisure time, emphasizing how and to what extent parents organize their children's leisure time. Parents from different regions of Slovakia participated in the research, and we processed the results using descriptive statistics. For comparison, we used the Student T-test, Mann-Whitney Test (for comparing two groups), and Kruskal-Wallis Test (for comparing three or more groups). The research showed that respondents judge current parenting as different and significantly more challenging compared to the past. They perceive differences in the sphere of leisure time of families, especially in the fact that parents give fewer responsibilities to children than the previous generation of parents. The research also shows that the problem of contemporary families is the absence of time spent together by parents and children, the absence of family communication, and the high level of organization of children's leisure time by parents. The authors point out that parents in a postmodern society have to deal with the difficulties of ensuring the family's economic stability, which is why two-career marriages are a reality in contemporary families. It has been proven that today's parents are busier with work and are more engaged outside the family, as a result of which they spend less time with their children, which negatively affects their upbringing, there is a lack of quality family communication, and children feel lonely and deprived of parental attention. It was also found that in the modern family, students are involved in housework much less than in the past, so they mostly have no experience of work in this aspect. It is emphasized that the compensation of parental influence with other means of education - media, technology (smartphones, tablets, computers), and the virtual world (social networks) is alarming. The decline in the development of reading interests in the family is outlined, and the tendency of parents to replace the joint reading of children's books with modern technologies is revealed.
Anthropomorphic information networks and converging technologies: challenge to humanity vs step forward?
Authors:   Private Higher Education Establishment “European University”, Ukraine, S Yahodzinskyi
Published: April 2023

The impact of convergening technologies on the social processes of the information society is investigated. It is grounded that at the beginning of the 21st century, the globalization of society is realized by means of convergening technologies. They are based on innovative communication technologies, in particular, technologies of artificial intelligence. The converging technologies of social structure expansion transform it into a network architect, where sustainability of social relations is the most important ergument. The recognition of the lack of administrative influence to achieve socially important goals leads to the fact that convergence of technologies is an irreversible part of the new technological way. The strengthening of the informational pressure that accompanies the formation of the network society further removes the person from realization of its potential, replacing critical, rational thinking with stereotyped, formalized information and communication exchange. As a result, the more dispersed (convergent) are social institutions and their networks, the less capable and willing to control them. Humanity was first faced with the challenge of its intellect, ability to create, control, recognize. Is society ready to give part of the management of the virtual network and artificial intelligence to the face of global problems? This question is before humanity. That is why the author underlies the idea that social modernization requires interpretation of convergence as a strategic innovation. Lack of public control over the convergence of networks leads to reverse – diverging processes. It is shown that the latter produce different forms of social alienation. And the emergence of anthropomorphic networks, based on the technologies of big data processing, machine learning and artificial intelligence, sharply pose questions of the future before every inhabitant of the planet.
Sex Trading Among Adolescent Cisgender Boys
Authors: Martin Lauren , McMorris Barbara J. , Rider G. Nic
Published: April 2023

OBJECTIVES

Cisgender girls and boys report trading sex for something of value at roughly equal proportions; yet, boys are understudied and underserved. We compare boys who reported trading sex to those who never traded sex to address this gap in knowledge and practice.

METHODS

The study is a secondary analysis of the Minnesota Student Survey, a triannual, census-style survey. The sample included 32 311 cisgender boy students in ninth and 11th grades who answered a question about sex trading. Bivariate descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic models were used to identify associated factors and determine the odds of trading sex on the basis of specific experiences.

RESULTS

We found that 1.2% of boys reported trading sex. In bivariate analyses, boys who reported trading sex were more likely than those who did not to: identify as Black or Indigenous; report a marginalized gender identity or sexual expression; have had sexual intercourse; have experienced sexual harassment and harassment on the basis of sexual identity and race, ethnicity, and national origin; and to have experienced homelessness, food insecurity, foster care, and substance treatment (P < .001). In multivariate models, we found increased odds of trading sex for some variables, including a marginalized sexual identity, identifying as Black, and experiences of unstable housing, foster care, substance treatment, sexual harassment, and harassment based on gender (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings contribute new knowledge about boys who trade sex using a large, population-based sample and counter false assumptions and stereotypes. These data suggest new avenues of research, intervention, and prevention.
The 2022 European Society of Cardiology Cardio-oncology Guidelines in Focus
Authors: Gent David G , Dobson Rebecca
Published: April 2023

The expansion of the therapeutic armamentarium available to oncologists and haematologists has led to a significant improvement in cancer survival; however, many of the available treatments carry a risk of toxicity to the heart. Cardio-oncology has emerged as a rapidly developing subspeciality dedicated to improving the cardiovascular care of patients before, during and after cancer treatment. The 2022 European Society of Cardiology guidelines on cardio-oncology provide a comprehensive overview of best-practice recommendations for cardiovascular care aimed at healthcare professionals treating cancer patients. The main focus of the guidelines is to ensure patients can complete their cancer treatment without significant cardiotoxicity and the correct follow-up for the first 12 months following treatment and beyond is instituted. The guidelines provide harmonisation of baseline risk stratification and toxicity definitions and encompass recommendations for all the major classes of therapy used in modern oncology and haematology. This review summarises the key points from the guidelines document.
Pandemia COVID-19: actitudes-facilidades como mediador entre autocuidado y bienestar mental en internos de ciencias médicas
Authors: Bello Vidal Catalina , Becerra Medina Lucy , La Rosa Botonero José Luis , Capa Luque Walter
Published: April 2023

Objetivo Determinar en internos de ciencias de la salud si el autocuidado es un factor cuyo efecto directo sobre bienestar mental es mediado por las actitudes y facilidades durante el internado, en la segunda ola de pandemia COVID-19.
Método Investigación transversal, correlacional multivariante, participaron 174 internos en actividad asistencial durante pandemia COVID-19, seleccionados con muestreo por conveniencia; se aplicaron tres escalas tipo autoinforme.
Resultados Entre los internos de ciencias de la salud ser mujer, tener familiar en casa contagiado de COVID-19 y presentar una percepcion del estado de salud general desfavorable son factores de riesgo que probabilizan estado negativo de bienestar mental (1,9> OR <3,9); en tanto que autocuidado junto a las actitudes y facilidades durante el internado se constituyen en factores de protectores para contrarrestar la existencia de estado negativo de bienestar mental (OR <1, p<0,05). El modelo de regresión estructural evidencia que las variables autocuidado como las actitudes adoptadas y facilidades experimentados por los estudiantes en el internado tienen efectos directos en el bienestar mental; asimismo las actitudes y facilidades cumplen un rol de mediador entre autocuidado y bienestar mental (CFI =0,96, TLI =0,95, RMSEA y SRMR <0,08), el modelo en conjunto explica en 50,7% la variabilidad de bienestar mental.
Conclusión El autocuidado es un factor cuyo efecto directo sobre bienestar mental es mediado por las actitudes y facilidades en el internado durante la segunda ola de la pandemia COVID-19 en el año 2021.
Aproximación diacrónica al asociacionismo del español como lengua extranjera (ELE) en Costa de Marfil
Authors: Ortega Martín José Luis , Djandué Bi Drombé , Kumon Anougba Simplice
Published: April 2023

Durante muchos años, la situación del asociacionismo de ELE en Costa de Marfil no ha estado a la altura del dinamismo de su enseñanza no solo en términos demolingüísticos sino también en la producción de materiales didácticos adaptados al alumnado africano. El despertar actual en este ámbito tiene que ver con el poder vinculador de Internet y de las redes sociales por una parte y, por la otra, con la pasión, la imaginación y la visión de las nuevas generaciones de profesorado. Pero este despertar no debe ocultar ni llevar a menospreciar las iniciativas asociativas anteriores, pues aprendiendo de los errores y aciertos del pasado es como las nuevas asociaciones marfileñas de ELE se enfrentarán con éxito a los retos del presente y del futuro.
Evaluation of the anti-diarrheal activity of 80% methanol extracts and the solvent fraction of the leaves of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) in mice
Authors: Desta Getaye Tessema , Ferede Yared Andargie , Zewudu Woretaw Sisay , Alemu Muluken Adela
Published: April 2023

Background: The leaf of Withania somnifera has been used for the treatment of diarrhea without evaluation of its efficacy. This study was aimed to evaluate the antidiarrheal activity of 80% methanol extract and the solvent fraction of Withania somnifera leaf in mice.Materials and Methods: The extraction was done using a cold maceration technique. The antidiarrheal activity was investigated on the castor oil-induced diarrhea, castor oil-induced gastrointestinal transit tests, and castor oil-induced enteropooling models. The mice were randomly grouped into negative control received 10ml/kg 2% tween-80 in distilled water, positive control received 3mg/kg loperamide, and group III - V received 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400mg/kg of the extract orally.Result: The crude extract, aqueous, and n-butanol fractions significantly delayed the onset of diarrhea at 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg doses. All three doses of the crude extract showed significant activity on the three models (castor oil induced diarrhea, castor oil induced gastro-intestinal motility, and castor oil-induced enteropooling test), whereas the aqueous and n-butanol fractions revealed a significant result at 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg. The phytochemical screening showed that flavonoids, tannins, alkaloid, phenols, saponin, terpenoids, and steroid were presented in the crude, flavonoid, phenol, tannin, saponin, alkaloid, and steroid were possessed in aquas fraction, while the n-butanol fraction contained flavonoid, tannins, phenols, alkaloid and terpenoids, the chloroform fraction showed the presences of flavonoids, steroids and terpenoids. The acute oral toxicity test revealed that the crude extract was safe at 2000 mg/kg.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the crude and fractions of Withania somnifera leaf has antidiarrheal activity and supports the folklore use of the plan for the treatment of diarrhea.
A Study on Aphanamixis polystachya for evaluation of phytochemical and pharmacological properties
Authors: Amin Mohammad Nurul
Published: April 2023

The present study was conducted to detect possible chemicals (phytoconstituents), and investigate antioxidant, antimicrobial and thrombolytic activities of the extract of Aphanamixis polystachya (stem bark). Phytochemical screening was carried out using the standard test methods of different chemical group. For investigating the antioxidant activity, two complementary test methods namely DPPH free radical scavenging assay and total phenolic content determination were carried out. For the evaluation of in vitro antimicrobial activity, disc diffusion method, and to determine the thrombolytic activity, the method of Prasad et al., 2007 with minor modifications were used. The bark extracts were a rich source of phytochemicals. In DPPH free radical scavenging test, the Carbon tetra chloride soluble fraction showed the highest free radical scavenging activity with IC50 value 19.86µg/ml. while compared to that of the reference standards ascorbic acid. Aphanamixis polystachya was also found as a good source of total phenolic contents. Moreover, the extracts revealed broad spectrum antimicrobial activity at the concentration of 400 µg/disc. By comparing with the negative control the mean clot lysis % was significant (p value <0.0009). Therefore, further studies are suggested to determine the active compounds responsible for the biological activities of the plant extracts.
Characterization of phytochemicals and determination of antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of the medicinal plant Ardisia solanacea
Authors: Amin Mohammad Nurul
Published: April 2023

The present study was conducted to detect possible phytochemicals and evaluate antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of the extract of Ardisia solanacea. Phytochemical screening was carried out using the standard test methods of different chemical group. For investigating the antioxidant activity, two complementary test methods namely DPPH free radical scavenging assay and total phenolic content determination were carried out. For the evaluation of in vitro antimicrobial activity, disc diffusion method was used. Evaluation of cytotoxic activity was done using the brine shrimp lethality bioassay. In DPPH free radical scavenging test, the petroleum ether soluble fraction showed the highest free radical scavenging activity with IC50 value 40.04 ?g/ml. while compared to that of the reference standards ascorbic acid. Ardisia solanacea was also found as a good source of total phenolic contents. Moreover, the extracts revealed moderate antimicrobial activity at the concentration of 400 ?g/disc. In cytotoxic activity test, the petroleum ether soluble fraction showed significant cytotoxic potential (LC50 value of 0.703 ?g/ml) among all the fractions comparing with that of standard vincristine (0.544 ?g/ml). Therefore, further studies are suggested to determine the active compounds responsible for the pharmacological activities of the plant extracts.
Phytochemical screening and cytotoxic activity of Elaeocarpus robustus roxb
Authors: Mohammad Nor
Published: April 2023

The present study was aimed to detect medicinal compounds of crude ethanolic extract of Elaeocarpus robustus roxb (EEE) and also it’s cytotoxic activity. The cytotoxic activity of EEE was determined by brine shrimp lethality bioassay. This analysis showed that with increasing concentration cytotoxicity of crude extract increased gradually. The LD50 value of EEE was 82.065±2.00 which was nearly about standard vincristine sulphate LD50value 69.726±1.52. The chi value of EEE (2.34) with the chi square value of standard vincristine sulphate (2.014) was quite similar and indicates little difference exists between the observed counts and expected counts. Through this research we also detect the presence of alkaloid and tannins by several tests like mayar’s reagent, wagner’s reagent, alkaloidal precipitation, ferric chloride test.
Myth of Aloe vera phytochemicals and its advancement as medicinal and plant packed cosmetics
Authors: Awais Muhammad , Sadaqat Sahar , Naeem Sania , Rao Abdul Qayyum
Published: April 2023

A succulent plant Aloe vera has been extensively utilized for various pharmaceutical and biomedical products. Its bioactive components that have different properties of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-microbial and immunomodulation have made it more attractive for the scientific community to further explore its hidden facts about its utilization and also in addition to improve its properties through expression of some useful protein which can make it complete plant packed cosmetics. This study briefly summarizes fundamental active components, their biological activities, and significant applications of the constituents found in Aloe vera, and extensively surveyed its research progress in cytology and molecular biology with an emphasis on genetic engineering. Aloe constituents are studied in the context of therapeutics, cosmetics, and hydration, antibacterial and antiviral applications. The information that has been presented here is useful for better comprehending and investigating its possible therapeutic and culinary applications and provides routes for future studies.
Phytochemical Screening, in Vitro Antimycotic and Antioxidant Activities of Crude Extracts of Six Rwandan Medicinal Plants
Authors: Umereweneza Daniel , Kamizikunze Theoneste , Muhizi Theoneste
Published: April 2023

Phytochemicals constitute reliable sources of antifungal and antioxidant compounds with low toxicity to mammals and safe to the environment which may serve as substitutes for synthetically produced chemicals. The present work aims at screening, and investigating the antimycotic and antioxidant activities of six medicinal plants, namely Croton macrostachyus (Euphorbiaceae), Clerodendrum (Rotheca) myricoides (Lamiaceae), Erucastrum arabicum (Brassicaceae), Melanthera scandens (Asteraceae), Senecio mannii (Asteraceae), and Senna didymobotrya (Fabaceae). A qualitative phytochemical screening was conducted by appropriate chemical methods. Antioxidant activity of 18 aqueous extracts has been tested by bleaching the solution of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Antimycotic activity of all extracts was measured by the disc diffusion method on a potato dextrose agar plate against five fungal strains viz. Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus and Fusarium oxysporum. The study revealed that the main phytochemical constituents of leaf, stem and root bark extracts were terpenoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids. Furthermore, the results showed that leaf extracts were richer in antioxidant potentials than the rest of the plant parts tested. However, scavenging capacity of leaf extract was lower than that of the ascorbic acid for all extracts except C. macrostachyus and M. scandens which exhibited approximately the same values as ascorbic acid. The leaf extracts displayed the highest inhibition zone average for most of the fungi. The strong antimycotic activity ranged from 14 to 27 mm and was observed mainly in leaf extracts. The leaf extract of M. scandens was the strongest against F. oxysporum with 27.0 mm inhibition zone diameter. The root extract displayed the lowest average zones of inhibition such as 2.0 mm for E. arabicum extract against R. stolonifer and 3.0 mm for S. didymobotrya extract against A. niger. Antioxidant and antimycotic activities were probably attributed to the presence of different groups of phytochemicals as such as terpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins. From the results of this study, plant extracts with higher antioxidant and antimycotic activity could be further studied and eventually be used in the development of natural antioxidants and food preservatives that could replace the synthetic compounds.
The concept of smart city development in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic on the example of Kraków and Barcelona – cities combining tradition with modernity
Authors: Jankowicz Bogdan
Published: April 2023

The concept of a smart city is still being developed despite the lack of a single universally accepted definition. It is implemented through different approaches in different cities around the world. The presented study concerns the improvement of this idea and the possibility of applying the solutions from Barcelona to the city of Kraków. This paper is based on the author’s experience and observations during a trip to Catalonia and its capital – Barcelona – as well as a study of literature on the smart city. The author takes into account the specific topographical and environmental conditions of each city and the human-environment interactions that have shaped both cities over the centuries. The paper continues to focus on the challenges to smart cities following the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has demonstrated the need to modify ICT (Information and Telecommunications Technologies) applications related to the functioning of the city. Preliminary conclusions drawn from the pandemic also indicate that further development of smart cities should be based not only on ICT applications in public services and public spaces, but also on guaranteeing individual spaces for citizens to live in long-term isolation. In addition, attention was drawn to the need to improve both direct and electronic communication, especially by telephone with the authorities of Kraków, to enable “co-governance” in areas where the voice of the city’s residents can be very valuable.
EN PRENSA. Efecto antioxidante y antibacteriano de diferentes extractos de Tithonia tubaeformis. EN PRENSA
Authors: García-Vázquez Luisa Monserrat , Ocampo-López Juan , Ayala-Martínez Maricela , Hernández-Aco Rodrigo Salomón , Zaragoza-Bastida A. , Zepeda-Bastida Armando
Published: April 2023

El género Tithonia, ha sido ampliamente estudiado para determinar sus efectos bioactivos de interés farmacéutico y nutricional, por lo que el objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el efecto antioxidante y antibacterial de 5 extractos de Tithonia tubaeformis, obtenidos con solventes de polaridad ascendente, hexano, diclorometano, acetato de etilo, metanol y etanol. Se identificó la presencia de taninos, alcaloides y fenoles totales. Se midió el efecto antioxidante a los radicales ABTS, DPPH y poder reductor al ion férrico, se determinó la CMI de cada extracto sobre Escherichia. coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enteritidis y Listeria monocytogenes. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que los cinco extractos tienen efecto antioxidante sobre los radicales ABTS, DPPH, y potencial reductor al ion férrico; sin embargo, los extractos que presentaron un efecto estadísticamente significativo (P<0.05) fueron metanol y etanol. Los extractos de metanol, etanol y acetato de etilo mostraron actividad antimicrobiana, siendo el solvente de etanol el que mayor actividad antibacterial tuvo, con una CMI de 1 mg/mLsobre Escherichia coli y 3 mg/mL sobre Escherichia. coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enteritidis y Listeria monocytogenes. Estos resultados sugieren que Tithonia tubaeformis puede ser de interés farmacéutico y nutricional por los efectos bioactivos de los fitoquímicos presentes en sus extractos.
An Comparative Study on Engagement of Gamification Service:Focused on Service Congruence and User’s Benefit-seeking Tendency
Authors:   Korea Association for International Commerce and Information, Kang Inwon , Heo Jaewon , Lee Jeong-Woo
Published: April 2023

This study attempted to compare and analyze mobile banking, mobile healthcare, and virtual communities, which are representative service groups with gamification, in order to more accurately evaluate acceptance behavior on gamification. In addition, rather than simply comparing services with gamification elements, we focus on the congruence between the main service and the additional service (gamification elements). We sought to mature the academic discussion of gamification service reasearch by classifying users' characteristics as benefit-seeking tendencies and service congruence level. And we compared to service acceptance behaviors that vary depending on both levels.
At a result of the verification, it was found that the level of engagement in gamification service depending on the service congruence and user's benefit-seeking tendencies. Specifically, in the case of mobile banking service, groups that highly perceive service congruence and seek to practical benefit showed the highest level of service engagement. And in the case of mobile healthcare service, groups that highly perceive service congruence and seek to self-actualization showed the highest level of service engagement. Last, in the case of virtual communities, groups that highly perceive service congruence and seek to social relationship showed the highest level of service engagement.