bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STUDY OF BODE INDEX AS A PREDICTOR OF SEVERITY AND SYSTEMIC INVOLVEMENT IN PATIENTS WITH COPD
Authors: Pavani S. , Kulothungan R.
Published: May 2022

Introduction:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is defined as a disease that is both preventable and treatable, with some significant extrapulmonary consequences. This study emphasizes the fact that the BODE index can be used to predict hospitalization and the severity of systemic involvement in COPD patients. Materials and Methods:The present cross-sectional was conducted at KarapagaVinayaga Medical College, Chengalpattu, over a period of 10 months from March 2021 to November 2021, after the due approval of the ethical committee. A total of 120 patients aged 40 to 75 years were recruited by purposive sampling. Patients with symptoms suggestive of COPD as cases were included. Clinical examination and investigation like spirometry, ECG, 2D echo, chest X-ray and BMI were also recorded. Data were analysed using SPSS version 19.0. Results:A total of 120 patients participated in this study. There wasa total of 80 (66.6%) males and 40 (33.3%) females among the study participants. The mean age of the study population was 57.8 years. The BODE score was significantly associated with the smoking status, the number of packyears of smoking, BMI, duration of hospital stay in the last two years.ECG axis was found to be normal in and mild groups. While 96% of patientsin the severe group are in RAD and 40% of patients in the severe group had LAD. Conclusion:The BODE index is a reliable method for predicting hospitalization and the severity of systemic involvement in COPD patients. Because calculating the BODE index only requires a spirometer, which is relatively inexpensive and widely available, as a result, the BODE index can be used to guide the referral of COPD patients, preventing the waste of limited resources.
COMPARATIVE STUDY TO DETECT SITE OF OBSTRUCTION IN OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES USING SPIROMETRY AND IMPULSE OSCILLOMETRY
Authors: Gurudas S. Pundpal , Sonal P. Karpe , Priti L. Meshram
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease [COPD] is associated with predominantly smaller airways and lung parenchyma involvement, whereas, Asthma involves predominantly smooth muscles located in the larger airway. Spirometry involves flow volume studies which are effort and coordination dependent and Impulse Oscillometry [IOS] is done during spontaneous respiration and hence effort independent. We studied the site of airway obstruction in COPD and Asthma patients using both Impulse Oscillometry and flow volume loop and whether both methods of pulmonary function testing are comparable with each other. Aims: To study site of airway obstruction using Impulse Oscillometry and Flow volume loop in COPD and Asthma patients. Methodology: The study was performed in 50 patients who were either COPD or Asthma. The patients underwent spirometry and impulse oscillometry. Both the modalities were analyzed for detecting the site of obstruction as per the diagnosis. Results and Conclusion: As per IOS, all the patients having large airway obstruction were asthmatics, all patients with mixed airway disease were COPD and 97.1% patients having small airway obstruction were COPD. Spirometry could not detect site of obstruction in 5 (10%) patients, on the other hand IOS could detect site of obstruction in all the 50 (100%) patients. Hence, Oscillometry is a better tool to know site of obstruction as compared to Spirometry in patients of Asthma and COPD.
LabVIEW and Embedded System based New IoT Solution for Industrial applications
Authors: SUNGUR Görkem , BORU Barış
Published: May 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming increasingly popular around the world. Efficiency in terms of time and cost is ensured in all sectors, thanks to the internet of things technology. A novel IoT system design was created in this study to add Internet of Things technology to a new perspective. All clients can connect to the server using this IoT platform, regardless of their hardware or software capabilities, even if they are not capable of industrial communication. The platform brings flexibility and ease of use to IoTapplications. Thanks to the platform's architecture, any device, whether inputs or outputs, can be easily added to an IoT network while it is running using the developed modules. The server software was created using the LabVIEW visual programming language and Raspberry Pi and MSP340F5529 embedded systems are used to develop hardware modules. To provide IoT data security, the TCP/IP protocol is used for data communication, and all data is encrypted using the AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) algorithm with a 128-bit key. A dynamic 1-N server-client IoT system has been implemented and tested with various analog, digital, and smart sensors, as well as smart devices. When the results are evaluated, it is found that industrial applications can be developed with the platform. Particularly in the case of transformation of industrial automation applications to IoT containing non-smart sensor and actuators, the developed platform can be preferred. In this case, the platform will bring opportunities to engineers in terms of cost and ease of development phase.
Vehicle state and parameter estimation based on double cubature Kalman filter algorithm
Authors: Liu Yingjie , Cui Dawei
Published: May 2022

Obtaining vehicle status in real-time and accurately during the driving process is of great significance for active safety control of the vehicle. In response to this problem, combining a 7-DOF vehicle dynamic model and the magic formula tire model, the research designed a time-sensitive and robust double cubature Kalman filter (DCKF) observation algorithm. The DCKF algorithm addressed singular value decomposition to optimize the error covariance matrix, and connected driving state observer information of the vehicle to update the observation signal realizing the real-time estimation of the vehicle state. The DCKF algorithm is verified on the simulation platform, and compared and analyzed with the virtual test with CarSim data. The results show that the DCKF algorithm has faster response speed, higher precision of the estimation of the vehicle state, and stronger real-time performance.
Strengthening water, sanitation and hygiene governance: a critical review of Zimbabwe's WASH sector institutional arrangements
Authors: Dhoba L.
Published: May 2022

This paper sought to review the structural and operational modalities for Zimbabwe's water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) sector coordination architecture with an objective to identify gaps and recommend areas for further strengthening. Data were collected using a mixed-method approach involving a questionnaire survey, focus group discussions, key-informant interviews and literature review. The study established that the institution of the National Action Committee (NAC) remains incapacitated to effectively deliver on its mandate. Its various committees are failing to convene meetings on regular basis, hence issues take longer to resolve. Decision-making and role clarity among members still remain indistinct, triggering undesirable conflicts. The legitimacy of the institution of the NAC also remains highly questionable, lacking legal bases to back its operations. In terms of information management, structures and systems are in place, only requiring support to make sure they thrive. Finally, financing including intersectoral coordination remains very weak and would need to be built-on, considering the potential of the coordination mechanism to enhance service delivery. A key recommendation emerging from this study is the urgent need for government to commission a review of the current multi-stakeholder platform in the best interest of aligning the coordination structure to the 2013 national constitution and national water policy.
Multi-objective optimisation of sewer maintenance scheduling
Authors: Draude Sabrina , Keedwell Ed , Kapelan Zoran , Hiscock Rebecca
Published: May 2022

Effective functioning of sewer systems is critical for the everyday life of people in the urban environment. This is achieved, among other things, by the means of regular, planned maintenance of these systems. A large water utility would normally have several maintenance teams (or crews) at their disposal who can perform related jobs at different locations in the company area and with different levels of priority. This paper presents a new methodology for the optimisation of related maintenance schedules resulting in clear prioritisation of the ordering of maintenance tasks for crews. The scheduling problem is formulated as a multi-objective optimisation problem with the following three objectives, namely the minimisation of the total maintenance cost, the minimisation of travel times of maintenance teams and the maximisation of the job's priority score, all over a pre-defined scheduling horizon. The optimisation problem is solved using the Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II) optimisation method. The results obtained from a real-life UK case study demonstrate that the new methodology can determine optimal, low-cost maintenance schedules in a computationally efficient manner when compared to the corresponding existing company schedules. Daily productivity of maintenance teams in terms of number of jobs completed improved by 26% when the methodology was applied to scheduling in the case study. Given this, the method has the potential to be applied within water utilities and the water utility Welsh Water (Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW)) is currently implementing it into their systems.
Chronic Systemic Low-Grade Inflammation and Modern Lifestyle:
The Dark Role of Gut Microbiota on Related Diseases with a Focus on
COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mundula Tiziana , Russo Edda , Curini Lavinia , Giudici Francesco , Piccioni Andrea , Franceschi Francesco , Amedei Amedeo
Published: May 2022

Inflammation is a physiological, beneficial, and auto-limiting response of the
host to alarming stimuli. Conversely, a chronic systemic low-grade inflammation (CSLGI),
known as a long-time persisting condition, causes damage to the organs and host tissues,
representing a major risk for chronic diseases. Currently, a high global incidence of
chronic inflammatory diseases is observed, often linked to the lifestyle-related changes
that occurred in the last decade. The main lifestyle-related factors are proinflammatory diet,
psychological stress, tobacco smoking, alcohol abuse, physical inactivity, and indoor
living and working with its related consequences such as indoor pollution, artificial light
exposure, and low vitamin D production. Recent scientific evidence found that gut microbiota
(GM) has a main role in shaping the host’s health, particularly as CSLGI mediator.
Based on the lastest discoveries regarding the remarkable GM activity, in this manuscript
we focus on the elements of actual lifestyle that influence the composition and function
of the intestinal microbial community in order to elicit the CSLGI and its correlated
pathologies. In this scenario, we provide a broad review of the interplay between modern
lifestyle, GM, and CSLGI with a special focus on the COVID symptoms and emerging
long-COVID syndrome.
Antitumor and Antiparasitic Activity of Antimicrobial Peptides Derived
from Snake Venom: A Systematic Review Approach
Authors: de Moura Gabriel Acácio. , de Oliveira Juliana Ramos. , Rocha Yasmim Mendes. , de Oliveira Freitas Janaína , Rodrigues João Pedro Viana. , Ferreira Vanessa Pinheiro Gonçalves , Nicolete Roberto
Published: May 2022

Background:

In a scenario of increased pathogens with multidrug resistance
phenotypes, it is necessary to seek new pharmacological options. This fact is responsible
for an increase in neoplasms and multiresistant parasitic diseases. In turn, snake venom-
derived peptides exhibited cytotoxic action on fungal and bacterial strains, possibly
presenting activities in resistant tumor cells and parasites. Therefore, the aim of this work
is to verify an antitumor and antiparasitic activity of antimicrobial peptides derived from
snake venom.

Methods:

For this purpose, searches were performed in the Pubmed, Embase and Virtual
Health Library databases by combining the descriptors peptides, venom and snake with
antitumor/ antiparasitic agent and in silico. The inclusion criteria: in vitro and in vivo experimental
articles in addition to in silico studies. The exclusion criteria: articles that
were out of scope, review articles, abstracts, and letters to the reader. Data extracted: peptide
name, peptide sequence, semi-maximal inhibitory concentration, snake species, tumor
lineage or parasitic strain, cytotoxicity, in vitro and in vivo activity.

Results:

In total 164 articles were found, of which 14 were used. A total of ten peptides
with antiproliferative activity on tumor cells were identified. Among the articles, seven
peptides addressed the antiparasitic activity.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, snake venom-derived peptides can be considered as potential
pharmacological options for parasites and tumors, however more studies are needed to
prove their specific activity.
Functionalized PAMAM-based Nanoformulation for Targeted Delivery of
5-Fluorouracil in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Siwei , Ouyang Hu , He Dongxiu , Liu Daquan , Wang Xiao , Chen Hongyuan , Pan Wei , Li Qi , Xie Weiquan , Yu Cuiyun
Published: May 2022

Background:

The efficacy of a traditional anticancer drug is challenged by adverse effects of the
drug, including its nonspecific bio-distribution, short half-life, and side effects. Dendrimer-based targeted drug
delivery system has been considered a promising strategy to increase targeting ability and reduce adverse effects
of anti-cancer drugs.

Objective:

This study analyzed the feasibility of whether the anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) could be delivered
by functionalized fifth-poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) with the peptide WP05 and the acetic anhydride to
the liver cancer cells, reducing the toxicity of the PAMAM and improving the targeting property of 5-FU during
delivery.

Methods:

The functionalized PAMAM-based nanoformulation (WP05-G5.0NHAC-FUA) was fabricated
through an amide condensation reaction to improve the therapeutic efficacy of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) in hepatocellular
carcinoma (HCC). The physicochemical structure, particle size, zeta potential, stability, and in vitro release
characteristics of WP05-G5.0NHAC-FUA were evaluated. In addition, the targeting, biocompatibility,
anti-proliferation, and anti-migration of WP05-G5.0NHAC-FUA were investigated. The anti-tumor effect of
WP05-G5.0NHAC-FUA in vivo was evaluated by constructing xenograft tumor models of human hepatoma
cells (Bel-7402) implanted in nude mice.

Results:

The resultant WP05-G5.0NHAC-FUA displayed spherical-like nanoparticles with a size of 174.20 ±
3.59 nm. Zeta potential and the drug loading of WP05-G5.0NHAC-FUA were 5.62 ± 0.41mV and 28.67 ±
1.25%, respectively. Notably, the optimized 5-FU-loaded formulation showed greater cytotoxicity with an IC50
of 30.80 ± 4.04 μg/mL than free 5-FU (114.93 ± 1.43 μg/mL) in Bel-7402 cancer liver cells, but a significantly
reduced side effect relative to free 5-FU in L02 normal liver cells. In vivo animal study further confirmed efficient
tumor accumulation and enhanced therapeutic efficiency.

Conclusion:

The developed nanoformulation is a promising platform for the targeting delivery of 5-FU and
provides a promising solution for improving the efficacy of hepatocellular carcinoma chemotherapy.
Natural and Synthetic Micelles for the Delivery of Small Molecule Drugs, Imaging
Agents and Nucleic Acids
Authors: Akib Anwarul Azim , Shakil Ragib , Rumon Md. Mahamudul Hasan , Roy Chanchal Kumar , Chowdhury Ezharul Hoque , Chowdhury Al-Nakib
Published: May 2022

The poor solubility, lack of targetability, quick renal clearance, and degradability of many therapeutic
and imaging agents strongly limit their applications inside the human body. Amphiphilic copolymers having
self-assembling properties can form core-shell structures called micelles, a promising nanocarrier for hydrophobic
drugs, plasmid DNA, oligonucleotides, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and imaging agents. Fabrication
of micelles loaded with different pharmaceutical agents provides numerous advantages, including therapeutic
efficacy, diagnostic sensitivity, and controlled release to the desired tissues. Moreover, their smaller particle
size (10-100 nm) and modified surfaces with different functional groups (such as ligands) help them to accumulate
easily in the target location, enhancing cellular uptake and reducing unwanted side effects. Furthermore, the
release of the encapsulated agents may also be triggered from stimuli-sensitive micelles under different physiological
conditions or by an external stimulus. In this review article, we discuss the recent advancements in formulating
and targeting of different natural and synthetic micelles, including block copolymer micelles, cationic
micelles, and dendrimers-, polysaccharide- and protein-based micelles for the delivery of different therapeutic
and diagnostic agents. Finally, their applications, outcomes, and future perspectives have been summarized.
Strategies for Targeting KRAS: A Challenging Drug Target
Authors: Wadood Abdul , Ajmal Amar , Rehman Ashfaq Ur
Published: May 2022

In the developed world, cancer is the most common cause of death. Among the 36 human genes of
the RAS family, KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS play a prominent role in human cancer. KRAS belongs to the Ras
superfamily of proteins and is a small GTPase signal transduction protein. Among the RAS isoform, KRAS is
the dominant mutant that induces approximately 86% of the RAS mutations. The most frequently mutated
KRAS isoform is KRAS4B. About 90% of pancreatic cancer, 30-40% of colon cancer, and 15 to 20% of lung
cancers are caused by mutations KRAS4B isoform. Liver cancer, bladder cancer, breast cancer, and myeloid
leukaemia are also caused by mutations in KRAS but are rare. The FDA has recently approved sotorasib for the
treatement of KRASG12C-mutated advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. However, no FDAapproved
drugs are available for other KRAS-driven cancer. As the KRAS proteins lack a druggable pocket accessible
to the chemical inhibitors, the cancer-causing mutant proteins are almost identical to their essential
wild-type counterparts. Therefore, they are considered undruggable. The new insights into the structure and
function of RAS have changed this understanding and encouraged the development of many drug candidates.
This review provides information about the different strategies for targeting KRAS, a challenging drug target
that might be valuable for the scientific community.
Novel Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms Involved in the Neuroprotective Effects of C-Phycocyanin against Brain Ischemia in Rats
Authors: Marín-Prida Javier , Liberato José Luiz , Llópiz-Arzuaga Alexey , Stringhetta-Padovani Karina , Pavón-Fuentes Nancy , Leopoldino Andréia Machado , Cruz Osmany Guirola , González Ignacio Hernández , Pérez Mariela León , Camins Antoni , Ferreira dos Santos Wagner , Uyemura Sergio Akira , Pardo-Andreu Gilberto L. , Pentón-Rol Giselle
Published: May 2022

Background:

Ischemic stroke produces a large health impact worldwide, with scarce therapeutic options.

Objective:

This study aimed to reveal the role of NADPH oxidase and neuroinflammatory genes in the cerebral anti-ischemic effects of C-Phycocyanin (C-PC), the chief biliprotein of Spirulina platensis.

Methods:

Rats with either focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) or acute brain hypoperfusion, received C-PC at different doses, or a vehicle, for up to 6 h post-stroke. Neurological, behavioral and histochemical parameters were assessed in I/R rats at 24 h. Cerebral gene expression and hippocampal neuron viability were evaluated in hypoperfused rats at acute (24 h) or chronic phases (30 days), respectively. A molecular docking analysis of NOX2 and C-PC-derived Phycocyanobilin (PCB) was also performed.

Results:

C-PC, obtained with a purity of 4.342, significantly reduced the infarct volume and neurological deficit in a dose-dependent manner, and improved the exploratory activity of I/R rats. This biliprotein inhibited NOX2 expression, a crucial NADPH oxidase isoform in the brain, and the superoxide increase produced by the ischemic event. Moreover, C-PC-derived PCB showed a high binding affinity in silico with NOX2. C-PC downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory genes (IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-17A, CD74, CCL12) and upregulated immune suppressive genes (Foxp3, IL-4, TGF-β) in hypoperfused brain areas. This compound also decreased chronic neuronal death in the hippocampus of hypoperfused rats.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that the inhibition of cerebral NADPH oxidase and the improvement of neuroinflammation are key mechanisms mediating the neuroprotective actions of C-PC against brain ischemia.
Fungal Metabolites: A Potential Source of Antidiabetic Agents with
Particular Reference to PTP1B Inhibitors
Authors: Deshmukh Sunil Kumar , Agrawal Shivankar , Gupta Manish K.
Published: May 2022

Diabetes is a growing health concern worldwide because it affects people of all age
groups and increases the risk of other diseases such as renal impairment and neural and cardiovascular
disorders. Oral hypoglycemic drugs mainly control diabetes; however, their associated side effects
limit their use in patients with other complications. PTP1B is a viable drug target to explore
new antidiabetic drugs. PTP1B acts as a negative regulator of the insulin-signaling pathway, and
therefore, PTP1B inhibitors display antihyperglycemic activity. Several classes of compounds from
natural and synthetic sources act as PTP1B inhibitors. Fungi are comprehensive in their diversity and
recognized as a valuable source for therapeutically active molecules. In recent years, researchers
have reported diverse classes of fungal secondary metabolites as potent PTP1B inhibitors. Some
metabolites such as 6-O-methylalaternin, fumosorinone A, nordivaricatic acid, and the divarinyl
divarate showed good activity and can be taken forward as a lead to develop novel PTP1B inhibitors
and antidiabetic drugs. Therefore, the present review focuses on the fungal metabolites identified in
the last five years possessing PTP1B inhibitory activity. A total of 128 metabolites are reviewed.
Their fungal species and source, chemical structure, and activity in terms of IC50 are highlighted.
The Role of VEGF Family in Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Zhou Yan , Zhu Xueping , Wang Huan , Duan Chenglin , Cui Hanming , Shi Jingjing , Shi Shuai , Yuan Guozhen , Hu Yuanhui
Published: May 2022

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family plays a major role in tumors and
ophthalmic diseases. However, increasingly more data reported its potential in regulating lipids.
With its biological functions mainly expressed in lymphatic vessels, some factors in the families,
like VEGF-A and VEGF-C, have been proved to regulate intestinal absorption of lipids by affecting
chylous ducts. Other effects, including regulating lipoprotein lipase (LPL), endothelial lipase (EL),
and recombinant syndecan 1 (SDC1), have also been confirmed. However, given the scant-related
studies, further research should be conducted to examine the concrete mechanisms and provide
pragmatic ways to apply them in the clinic. The VEGF family may treat dyslipidemia in specific
ways that are different from common methods and concurrently contribute to the treatment of other
metabolic diseases, like diabetes and obesity.
Evaluation of Biological Activities of Quinone-4-oxoquinoline Derivatives
against Pathogens of Clinical Importance
Authors: Juliana Martins Francislene , Savacini Sagrillo Fernanda , Josianne Vinturelle Medeiros Rafaelle , Gonçalves de Souza Alan , Rodrigues Pinto Costa Amanda , Silva Novais Juliana , Alves Miceli Leonardo , Campos Vinícius , Marie Sá Figueiredo Agnes , Claudia Cunha Anna , Lidmar von Ranke Natalia , Lamim Bello Murilo , Abrahim-Vieira Bárbara , De Souza Alessandra , Ratcliffe Norman , da Costa Santos Boechat Fernanda , Cecília Bastos Vieira de Souza Maria , Rangel Rodrigues Carlos , Carla Castro Helena
Published: May 2022

Background:

Microbial resistance has become a worldwide public health problem, and may lead to morbidity and mortality in affected patients.

Objective:

Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of quinone-4-oxoquinoline derivatives.

Method:

These derivatives were evaluated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by their antibacterial activity, anti-biofilm, and hemolytic activities and by in silico assays.

Results:

The quinone-4-oxoquinoline derivatives presented broad-spectrum antibacterial activities, and in some cases were more active than commercially available reference drugs. These compounds also inhibited bacterial adhesion and the assays revealed seven non-hemolytic derivatives. The derivatives seem to cause damage to the bacterial cell membrane and those containing the carboxyl group at the C-3 position of the 4-quinolonic nucleus were more active than those containing a carboxyethyl group.

Conclusion:

The isoquinoline-5,8-dione nucleus also favored antimicrobial activity. The study showed that the target of the derivatives must be a non-conventional hydrophobic allosteric binding pocket on the DNA gyrase enzyme.
Natural Antioxidants as Additional Weapons in the Fight against Malarial
Parasite
Authors: Virendra Sharma Arvind , Sahu Chandrakant , Kumar Ankur , Chawla Pooja Abrol
Published: May 2022

Background:

All currently available antimalarial drugs are developed from natural prod-uct lineages that may be traced back to herbal medicines, including quinine, lapachol, and artemis-inin. Natural products that primarily target free radicals or reactive oxygen species, play an im-portant role in treating malaria.

Objective:

This review analyses the role of antioxidative therapy in treating malaria by scavenging or countering free radicals and reviews the importance of natural plant extracts as antioxidants in oxidative therapy of malaria treatment.

Methods:

The search for natural antioxidants was conducted using the following databases: Re-searchGate, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Bentham Science with the keywords malaria, reac-tive oxygen species, natural antioxidants, and antiplasmodial.

Conclusion:

This study reviewed various literature sources related to natural products employed in antimalarial therapy directly or indirectly by countering/scavenging reactive oxygen species pub-lished between 2016 till date. The literature survey made it possible to summarize the natural prod-ucts used in treating malaria, emphasizing botanical extracts as a single component and in associa-tion with other botanical extracts. Natural antioxidants like polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids, have a broad range of biological effects against malaria. This review is pivoted around natural anti-oxidants obtained from food and medicinal plants and explores their application in restraining reac-tive oxygen species (ROS). We anticipate this article will provide information for future research on the role of antioxidant therapy in malaria infection.
The Role of Mitochondria-Targeting miRNAs in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Gareev Ilgiz , Beylerli Ozal , Liang Yanchao , Lu Enzhou , Ilyasova Tatiana , Sufianov Albert , Sufianova Galina , Shi Huaizhang , Ahmad Aamir , Yang Guang
Published: May 2022

Non-traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most common type of hemorrhagic
stroke, most often occurring between the ages of 45 and 60. Arterial hypertension (AH) is most often
the cause of ICH, followed by atherosclerosis, blood diseases, inflammatory changes in cerebral
vessels, intoxication and vitamin deficiencies. Cerebral hemorrhage can occur by diapedesis or as a
result of a ruptured vessel. AH is difficult to treat, requires surgery and can lead to disability or
death. One of the important directions in the study of the pathogenesis of ICH is mitochondrial dysfunction
and its regulation. The key role of mitochondrial dysfunction in AH and atherosclerosis, as
well as in the development of brain damage after hemorrhage, has been acknowledged. MicroRNAs
(miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs (about 18-22 nucleotides) that regulate a variety of biological
processes including cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, etc., primarily through gene
repression. There is growing evidence to support dysregulated miRNAs in various cardiovascular
diseases, including ICH. Further, the realization of miRNAs within mitochondrial compartment has
challenged the traditional knowledge of signaling pathways involved in the regulatory network of
cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of miRNAs in mitochondrial dysfunction for ICH is still
under-appreciated, with comparatively much lesser studies and investigations reported, than those in
other cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we summarize the up-to-date findings on the published
role miRNAs in mitochondrial function for ICH, and the potential use of miRNAs in clinical settings,
such as potential therapeutic targets and non-invasive diagnostic/prognostic biomarker tools.
Nanotechnological Advances for Nose to Brain Delivery of Therapeutics to
Improve the Parkinson Therapy
Authors: Khatri Dharmendra K. , Preeti Kumari , Tonape Shivraj , Bhattacharjee Sheoshree , Patel Monica , Shah Saurabh , Singh Pankaj K. , Srivastava Saurabh , Gugulothu Dalapathi , Vora Lalitkumar , Singh Shashi B.
Published: May 2022

Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) acts as a highly impermeable barrier, presenting an impediment
to the crossing of most classical drugs targeted for neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's
disease (PD). About the nature of drugs and other potential molecules, they impose unavoidable doserestricted
limitations eventually leading to the failure of therapy. However, many advancements in
formulation technology and modification of delivery approaches have been successful in delivering the
drug to the brain in the therapeutic window. The nose to the brain (N2B) drug delivery employing the
nanoformulation, is one such emerging delivery approach, overcoming both classical drug formulation
and delivery-associated limitations. This latter approach offers increased bioavailability, greater patient
acceptance, lesser metabolic degradation of drugs, circumvention of BBB, ample drug loading along
with the controlled release of the drugs. In N2B delivery, the intranasal (IN) route carries therapeutics
firstly into the nasal cavity followed by the brain through olfactory and trigeminal nerve connections
linked with nasal mucosa. The N2B delivery approach is being explored for delivering other biologicals
like neuropeptides and mitochondria. Meanwhile, this N2B delivery system is associated with critical
challenges consisting of mucociliary clearance, degradation by enzymes, and drug translocations
by efflux mechanisms. These challenges finally culminated in the development of suitable surfacemodified
nano-carriers and Focused- Ultrasound-Assisted IN as FUS-IN technique which has expanded
the horizons of N2B drug delivery. Hence, nanotechnology, in collaboration with advances in the
IN route of drug administration, has a diversified approach for treating PD. The present review discusses
the physiology and limitation of IN delivery along with current advances in nanocarrier and
technical development assisting N2B drug delivery.
Melatonin Receptor Agonists for the Prevention of Delirium: An Updated
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Maneeton Narong , Maneeton Benchalak , Kongsaengdao Subsai , Likhitsathian Surinporn , Woottiluk Pakapan , Kawilapat Suttipong , Srisurapanont Manit
Published: May 2022

Background:

Although a previous review illustrated the efficacy of melatonin receptor
agonists (MRAs) in preventing delirium, some recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) did not
confirm these effects.

Objectives:

This study systematically reviewed the efficacy, acceptability, and tolerability of MRAs
for delirium prevention.

Materials and Methods:

We searched electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL,
and Controlled Trials Register, from their inception to February 20, 2022. The primary efficacy
outcome was delirium incidence rate after MRA administration; relative risks (RRs), overall discontinuation,
and discontinuation due to adverse events are also presented.

Results:

The overall pooled incidence rates of delirium in MRA-treated and placebo-treated groups
were significantly different with RR (95% CI)=0.66(0.52, 0.84, ), I2=59%. Similarly, the incidence
rate was significantly lower in the melatonin-treated group than in the placebo-treated group [RR
(95% CI) =0.65 (0.49, 0.88), I2=65%]. Unfortunately, incidence rates were not significantly different
between ramelteon-treated and placebo-treated groups [RR (95% CI) =0.67 (0.42, 1.08),
I2=50%]. The pooled incidence rate of delirium in either melatonin or ramelteon-treated groups was
not significantly different from the placebo-treated group in elderly patients. The pooled incidence
rate of delirium was significantly lower in the melatonin-treated group than in the benzodiazepinetreated
group.

Conclusion:

Based on this review, melatonin could prevent delirium with a small effect size. However,
ramelteon did not show efficacy in preventing delirium. Additionally, neither melatonin nor
ramelteon individually showed effectiveness in preventing delirium in elderly patients. Therefore,
using MRAs to prevent delirium in clinical practice should be cautious. However, future welldefined
and large sample size studies could verify these findings.
Physical Activity and its Associated Factors among Pregnant Sudanese
Women in Eastern Sudan
Authors: Munder Omer , Ishag Mohamed , Ahmed Abdel B.A. , ALhabardi Nadiah , Hassan Bahaeldin , Adam Ishag
Published: May 2022

Background:

Moderate physical activity (PA) during pregnancy (> 150 min/week) is
beneficial to mothers and their growing fetuses. There are no published data on PA during pregnancy
in Sudan.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the level of PA among pregnant Sudanese
women and to determine its associated factors. Sociodemographic and obstetric variables
were gathered through a questionnaire, and PA was assessed by the Pregnancy Physical Activity
Questionnaire (PPAQ). The scores were compiled, the participants were classified according to the
intensity and type of PA, and logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results:

Five hundred women with a median (interquartile range) age of 27.0 (9.0) years were enrolled.
The majority (88.4%) were housewives, more than half (53.6%) were overweight, and just
over a quarter (25.8%) were obese. The sedentary activity was reported by 367 women (73.4%).
The most energy (29.54 ± 9.62 metabolic equivalent task h/week; 83.75%) was spent during household
and caregiving activities. While there was no association with age, parity, education, gestational
age, and PA, overweight (adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 2.38, 95% confidence interval (CI) =
1.27-4.45) and obesity (AOR = 3.07, 95% CI = 1.56-6.02) were associated with PA.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that the majority of Sudanese pregnant women had a sedentary
lifestyle. Most of the energy was spent during household and caregiving activities. Overweight
and obese pregnant women were more likely to be physically active. Health education about the importance
of prenatal PA is needed in Sudan.
The Engagement Challenge: Feasibility and Acceptability of Cognitive Remediation for Teenagers in the Care of Youth
Protection Services
Authors: Thibaudeau Elisabeth , R.-Mercier Alexandra , Wykes Til , Reeder Clare , Guay Karianne , Nadeau Danielle , Dufour Geneviève , Cella Matteo , Cellard Caroline
Published: May 2022

Background:

History of childhood maltreatment is recognized as an important
risk factor for the development of mental health and cognitive difficulties. Cognitive
difficulties are associated with impairments in everyday functioning in different domains
such as school or work. To date, no study has evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of
cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) for teenagers with a history of childhood
maltreatment.

Objective:

The objective was to assess the acceptability and feasibility of the CIRCuiTS
program for teenagers in youth protection services and to explore the preliminary effect
on clinical and neuropsychological outcomes.

Methods:

Ten participants were first assessed with clinical and neuropsychological
measures. They then received a mean of 16 CRT sessions with the CIRCuiTS program
adapted for teenagers. The same measures as a baseline were repeated directly after the
end of treatment, as well as 3-months and 1-year post-treatment. Descriptive statistics
were used to assess feasibility and acceptability, while the preliminary effect of
CIRCuiTS was assessed with Reliable Change Indices (RCIs).

Results:

CIRCuiTS was considered acceptable by both participants and therapists for the
attractiveness of the program, its easiness of use and understanding, and its cultural
adaptability. However, the feasibility was limited, with only 50% of participants having
completed CIRCuiTS. This was mostly explained by contextual factors. RCIs revealed
significant improvements in several neuropsychological domains, as well as a decline in
other domains.

Conclusion:

This pilot study highlights challenges that must be addressed to promote
engagement with CRT for teenagers in the care of youth protection services.
Working with Schools to Support Trans Youth: Seen, Safe and
Supported
Authors: Baum Joel
Published: May 2022

Background:

As one of the primary places of socialization for a young
person, school is a critical part of any transgender student’s life. Mental health
providers can play a fundamental role supporting these vulnerable young people as
they navigate the hallways and classrooms of their schools.

Objective:

This article provides mental health personnel with information and
resources for supporting transgender youth in the school setting.

Method:

Some general principles for working effectively with educational
institutions serving transgender youth are provided. In addition, three critical tools
are introduced for maximizing conditions for a successful experience at school for
these students.

Results:

Educational institutions have adopted a range of specific structures found
effective in anticipating and managing various issues a transgender child may
encounter at school. These include structured approaches for initial discussions
with school officials about a child’s gender, and Gender Support Plans and Gender
Communication Plans designed to codify ways a school will support a student
around their emerging gender status. Awareness of these resources will help mental
health providers effectively partner with patients and their families as they navigate
educational institutions.

Conclusion:

For many transgender and other gender diverse students, the day-today
tumult of school can be a source of great anxiety and concerns that they have
no control over their circumstances. Using gender support and gender
communication plans can diminish these feelings. Mental health providers must
have a firm understanding of these plans and their implementation to provide the
necessary support for gender diverse students.
Sensorless Control of Permanent Magnet Linear Synchronous Motor
Based On Double Sliding Mode
Authors: Wen Cheng , Lv Kailin , Zhao Qiankai , Li Mingwei , Wang Xin , Zhao Xingqiao
Published: May 2022

Background & Objective:

This document presents a dual sliding mode vector control
method to estimate speed and position of Permanent Magnet Linear Synchronous Motor
(PMLSM).

Methods:

Firstly, the motor simulation model is built based on the mathematical model of PMLSM.
For the sake of solving the problems of the jitter and position angle deviation in the traditional
SMO, the inverse hyperbolic tangent function is used and the software phase-locked loop algorithm
is introduced, and the gain of exponential approach rate is improved to change the real-time, so as to
eliminate the problems of high-frequency jitter and angle deviation. Secondly, global fractional order
integral sliding mode control (GFOISMC) is used to replace PI control to eliminate jitter and
improve the robustness to load disturbance. Finally, the dynamic performance of the system under
constant speed no-load and constant speed sudden load is simulated.

Results:

The simulation result proves a proposed dual sliding mode control strategy combining the
improved SMO and GFOISMC that can effectively reduce the jitter and improve robustness.

Conclusion:

In this paper, two sensorless control strategies are compared and their robust performance
is studied. The two control scheme is simulated in the MATLAB/Simulink environment.
Multistage Expansion Planning of Active Distribution System Network
Authors: Chauhan Rajeev Kumar , Maurya Sanjay Kumar , Chauhan Durg Singh
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

This paper presents an approach for multistage expansion planning of the
active distribution system network problems by considering multiple strategies based on system
investment cost, including renewable energy sources based on distributed generation units, operational
cost, and reliability.

Objective:

The developed framework model fulfills the prospects related to techno-economical and
reliable multistage expansion planning of active distribution system network for the sustainable
development of electric power system.

Methods:

The mathematical model of the multi-objective function has been developed with the
investment decision variables to compute the investment cost. The reliability of the active distribution
system network is evaluated in non-supplied energy costs under contingency conditions with
and without DGs.

Result:

The result validates the constraints associated with planning, investment decisions, power
quality, and reliability of the system.

Conclusion:

This study also demonstrates the improvement in per unit (p.u.) voltage of bus nodes
for each period of network expansion with DGs over the planning horizon. The proposed method
is tested and validated on a 54-bus, 11 kV long-term active distribution network.
Design and Sensitive Analysis of Incremental Linear Actuator
Authors: Lachheb Aymen , El Amraoui Lilia
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a novel single-sided linear actuator design and sensitivity analysis of different geometric parameters on the performances of the actuator. A numerical model based on the finite element method is developed for that purpose. Thus, the electromagnetic behavior of the actuator is analyzed with 2D magneto-static analysis, and the electromagnetic characteristics were presented with the study of the effect of different geometric parameters on the thrust force. Indeed, the magnetic flux distribution and the force profile are presented and discussed. The analysis of different parameters on the actuator's performance allows the selection of the appropriate values of these parameters to obtain optimal performance of the actuator. The analysis shows the air gap and stack length has a powerful influence on the actuator's performance. Furthermore, the increase of supply current has a significant effect, but a high level of Ampere turns to bring the magnetic circuit to the saturation zone. It is important to determine the optimal geometrical dimensions to reduce the mass of the motor. It is critical to choose the optimum power values for the actuator to obtain optimum performance and avoid exceeding operating limits.

Background:

The linear switched reluctance motor is used in many industrial applications such as the linear motion of machine tools, sliding door applications, and conveyors.

Objective:

A new design approach for a linear switched reluctance motor is developed in order to determine the geometric parameters of the structure.

Methods:

Finite element method is used to predict the characteristics of the motor and the analysis its performances.

Results:

The simulation results obtained by finite element analysis make it possible to study the electromagnetic behavior of the motor and to validate the established geometric model.

Conclusion:

The study was carried out to choose the optimal parameters in order to obtain optimal performance and avoid exceeding the operating limits of the motor.
Anatomía de la madera de Fagus grandifolia subsp. mexicana (Fagaceae), especie endémica de México
Authors: Cuapio Hernández Liliana , Borja-de la Rosa Ma. Amparo , Reyes Trejo Benito , Villanueva Morales Antonio , Machuca Velasco Roberto , Corona Ambriz Alejandro
Published: May 2022

Antecedentes y Objetivos: Fagus grandifolia subsp. mexicana habita en México, formando relictos en el bosque mesófilo de montaña en la Sierra Madre Oriental; es un taxón endémico que actualmente se encuentra en peligro de extinción. El objetivo del estudio fue describir las características anatómicas macroscópicas y microscópicas de la madera de Fagus grandifolia subsp. mexicana con el fin de contribuir a su conocimiento anatómico. Métodos: Las muestras de madera se obtuvieron mediante un método no destructivo que consistió en la extracción de núcleos del fuste de árboles vivos y trozos del tronco de un árbol derribado por el viento. La descripción anatómica de la madera se realizó en los planos tangencial, transversal y radial, a nivel macroscópico con tablillas (7×12×1 cm cortadas y pulidas) y microscópico con preparaciones fijas de cortes de los núcleos, de acuerdo con la terminología propuesta por la International Association of Wood Anatomists; también se estimaron los índices de vulnerabilidad (IV), agrupamiento de vasos (IVg) y mesomorfía (IM). Se empleó el programa RStudio para realizar las pruebas estadísticas y Excel para la estimación de los índices. Resultados clave: La madera de Fagus grandifolia subsp. mexicana es de color castaño claro, brillo medio a alto, veteado pronunciado, hilo recto y textura gruesa, posee porosidad difusa, placa de perforación simple y escalariforme (5-20 barras), punteaduras intervasculares opuestas, tílosis, traqueidas vasicéntricas, fibras libriformes, parénquima axial paratraqueal y apotraqueal difuso, radios heterocelulares uniseriados, biseriados, multiseriados y agregados, cristales prismáticos y cuerpos de sílice. Algunos rasgos anatómicos coinciden con los de otras especies del mismo género.Conclusiones: La descripción anatómica de la madera de F. grandifolia subsp. mexicana es la primera que se realiza para este taxón; además, contribuye a interrelacionar la información de sus características con las de otras especies de Fagus de importancia económica.