bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Preflaring on Accuracy of Endodontic Length Determination by Four Electronic Apex Locators
Authors:   Dental Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran, dr.izadi@goums.ac.ir, Izadi Arash , Bayandari Maliheh ,   Dental Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran, malihbi93@gmail.com, Kazeminejad Ezatolah ,   Dental Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran, ezztk.edu@gmail.com
Published: August 2023

Objective: Root canal anatomy significantly impacts the working length determination. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the preflaring technique on the accuracy of four electronic apex locators. Methods: Forty-five single-canal central maxillary teeth were selected. The working length was measured before and after the coronal preparation by four types of electronic apex locators in the range of ±0.5 and ±1 mm matched for the apical constriction. The actual working length was calculated under a microscope. Data were analyzed using ICC and paired t-tests in SPSS16. A p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The accuracies of Root ZX, DTE, Denjoy, and Coxo apex locators in the range of ± 0.05 mm were 71.1, 93.3, 84.4, and 75.6% before preflaring, and 82.2, 93.3, 97.8, and 100% after that. The corresponding values in the range of ±1 mm were 86.7, 97.8, 93.3, and 100% before and 97.8, 100, 100, and 100% after preflaring. Significant differences were found between the working lengths measured by the four devices and the actual working lengths before and after preflaring. Conclusion: The preflaring technique could impact the performance of apex locators in determining the working length and may be advocated for better outcomes.
Perceptions of Dental Students t ceptions of Dental Students toward Dentistr d Dentistry and Difficulties y and Difficulties They Face during Pr ace during Preclinical Oper eclinical Operative Dentistr e Dentistry Education ducation
Authors:   Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey, dt.kivanc@gmail.com, Dülger Kıvanç , Bulut Eyüboğlu Güneş ,   Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey, gunesbulut@ktu.edu.tr
Published: August 2023

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the attitudes of dental students toward dentistry and the difficulties they face during their preclinical operative dentistry education, especially its practical aspect. Methods: About 100 third-year dental students answered a paper-based survey questionnaire (response rate = 90.90%), which was prepared and distributed in April 2019. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 (IBM SPSS, Turkey), and a one-way ANOVA test was used to determine the students’ competence for patient treatment based on their difficulty scores. Results: No statistically significant relationship was identified between the participants’ difficulty scores and grade point averages (p > 0.05). The students who felt ready for their clinical dental education phase—due the following year—had statistically significant lower difficulty scores than those who felt incompetent and uncertain (p: 0.005; p < 0.05). Notably, there was no statistically significant difference in the difficulty scores (p > 0.05) between the participants who felt incompetent and uncertain. Conclusion: Dental practice plays an important role in preclinical operative dentistry education. Therefore, dental students should be adequately prepared for operative preclinical practice, which can be achieved by offering more preclinical practice through collaboration with educators.
Inhibition of SRSF3 Alleviates Proliferation and Migration of Gastric Cancer Cells by Regulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signalling Pathway
Authors: Xie J. , Sun Y. , Xu Qiaoling
Published: August 2023

This study was aimed to investigate the impact of serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 3 (SRSF3) on the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer (GC) cells. SRSF3 levels in GC tissues and cell lines were measured by Western blotting. Functional assays were used for evaluation of GC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was then examined by Western blotting. SRSF3 exhibits abnormal expression for the significantly increased levels in GC. SRSF3 knockdown significantly suppressed GC progression. SRSF3 knockdown significantly inhibited activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling. Inhibition of SRSF3 alleviates proliferation and migration of GC cells, and this process is mediated by inactivation of PI3K/ AKT/mTOR signalling. Targeting SRSF3 may be a promising strategy to combat GC.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 5: an Important Regulator of Early Osteogenic Differentiation of hMSCs
Authors: Zhang Z. M. , Min L. , Jiang D. L. , Han Z. Y. , Wang Lihua
Published: August 2023

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) is broadly bioactive, but its role in osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) remains to be clarified. Here, we demonstrated that IGFBP5 expression was markedly increased during the early osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs. We then over-expressed and knocked down this gene in hMSCs and evaluated the impact of manipulation of IGFBP5 expression on osteogenic differentiation based upon functional assays, ALP staining, and expression of osteogenic markers. Together, these analyses revealed that IGFBP5 over-expression enhanced early osteogenic differentiation, as evidenced by increased ALP staining and osteogenic marker induction, whereas knocking down this gene impaired the osteogenic process. Over-expression of IGFBP5 also markedly bolstered the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation level, while IGFBP5 knockdown suppressed this signalling activity. We additionally compared the impact of simultaneous IGFBP5 overexpression and ERK1/2 inhibitor treatment to the effect of IGFBP5 over-expression alone in these hMSCs, revealing that small molecule-mediated EKR1/2 inhibition was sufficient to impair osteogenic differentiation in the context of elevated IGFBP5 levels. These findings indicated that IGFBP5 drives the early osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs via the ERK1/2 signalling pathway. Our results offer value as a foundation for future efforts to study and treat serious bone-related diseases including osteoporosis.
Luteoloside Ameliorates Palmitic Acid-Induced in Vitro Model of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease via Activating STAT3-Triggered Hepatocyte Regeneration
Authors: Zhu Y. X. , Zhu L. , Chen Y. F. , Xu J. M. , Shen Z. L. , Liu R. J. , Zou J. , Yuan Mingqing , Ye Fan , Zeng Qingqi
Published: August 2023

Luteoloside (Lute), a bioactive natural ingredient, widely exists in nature and possesses hepatoprotective and hepatocyte proliferation-promoting properties. This study aimed to investigate whether Lute could counteract non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-caused hepatocyte damage via its stimulation of hepatocyte regeneration efficacy and to explore the involved mechanism. LO2 cells and primary hepatocytes were used to examine the hepatocyte proliferation effects of Lute under physiological conditions and in the palmitic acid (PA)- induced in vitro model of NAFLD. STAT3 and cell cycle-related proteins (cyclin D1, c-myc and p21) were evaluated by Western blot. Under physiological conditions, LO2 cells and primary hepatocytes treated with various concentration of Lute for 12 and 24 h showed increased hepatocyte proliferation, especially with 20 μM treatment for 24 h. More notably, under the model conditions, co-incubation with 20 μM of Lute also markedly reversed PA-induced inhibition of cell proliferation and viability in primary hepatocytes. Mechanistically, Lute could activate STAT3 and subsequently increase cyclin D1 and cmyc expression, which positively regulates cell cycle progression, and decrease expression of p21, an inhibitor of cell cycle progression. Furthermore, Luteinduced hepatocyte proliferation-promoting efficacy was abolished by STAT3 inhibitor stattic. Collectively, Lute can alleviate PA-induced hepatocyte damage via activating STAT3-mediated hepatocyte regeneration.
Eligibility for the Funding and Development from the German Federal Organizations in the Energy and Environmental Sector
Authors: Kutval Ashish , Shafighi Najla
Published: August 2023

The German government has set targets to increase renewable energy usage and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. They aim to raise the proportion of renewable energy in total energy consumption from 10.6% in 2010 to 17.1% by 2020. In 2022, the industrial sector accounted for over 44% of renewable energy usage, with a cost of around 17 billion euros. By 2030, the government expects renewable sources to contribute at least 65% of the national energy consumption. To encourage the growth of renewable energy, the government provides subsidies and grants through programs like KfW and the Federal Ministry BAFA. This thesis focuses on four research questions: the effectiveness of subsidies, optimizing technology support benefits, challenges faced by renewable energy businesses in accessing government support, and evaluating the impact of grant funding on the development of energy-efficient technology. Considering the specific needs of each company is crucial for making accurate investments.
How Far is the Qualitative and Quantitative Divide More Imagined than Real? Philosophy and Traditions in management research
Authors: Alsoaery Abdulrhman , Alshehri Hessa , Abdullah Halah
Published: August 2023

This article represent the debate in the two main research approaches namely qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative and quantitative approaches have special roles in research studies in numerous disciplines. Despite the debate on the division between the two approaches, there are a series of advantages and disadvantages, though depending on the aims and objectives of researchers. However, there is intense and significant disagreement concerning both nature of data and philosophical assumptions. Researchers, for that reason, increasingly demonstrate interest in merging the two concepts, in order to reap the merits of each as can be noticed in the increase number of this integrated approach in the management research.
Sustainability and Inflation: A Bi-front Malaise
Authors: Cossiga Giovanni Antonio
Published: August 2023

The singular presence together of inflation and deflation is only apparently improper because we must always distinguish on the subject of inflation, about which phenomenon we are talking. In general, we can say that the two phenomena - called classics - cannot share. With an important distinction. If inflation or deflation is - as already said "classical" - that is, it affects the economic system due to errors made by governments in managing the economy. In this case, inflation has its own characteristics: that is, it is subject to constant acceleration and its race continues until monetary policy intervenes with the rise in the interest rate. Different the case of inflation from international prices, due to the increase in the cost of energy and rare earths, as well as cereals, etc. Well in this case, the subjection of daily prices is linked to the evolution to which they are subject due to speculation and to the selfishness of producers. In the case of international price inflation, the decision of central banks to raise the cost of borrowing has a marginal effect on cost inflation. However, it has a strong indirect effect because the rising cost of credit puts lead into the pockets of speculators. With the result of containing the speculative thrust to the advantage of domestic prices which are slowing down. We are in a period of creeping deflation and tensions on the stock markets and capital assets front, two phenomena that have direct repercussions on daily spending and aggravate the difference between the rich and classes close to poverty. It is therefore essential to mitigate the social tensions that accumulate that the issue of international price controls, starting with wheat and energy, are addressed at the G7 and G20 level for a policy of moderation on these prices. On the topic of the recurring pressure of stock market values and of equity assets, in search of the reasons for the unjustified rise, we point out the hypothesis that this for the moment moody rise in values has the possibility that it could be a sort of hypothetical foretelling of human society when we have achieved full neutrality with nature. At the time, a sharp acceleration in development could change our economics of scarcity.
Research on Music Teachers' Competitions in Brazil
Authors: Wolffenbüttel Cristina Rolim
Published: August 2023

This article presents a state-of-the-art investigation concerning research related to public competitions for music teachers in Brazil. Data collection focused on research conducted and published until the year 2021, with no specific start date, based on internet-based sources. After collection, the data underwent content analysis. The results revealed four articles, each published in a different journal, with three related to Music and one to Education
The Important in Understanding the Theory of the Firm in the Social Science Research
Authors: Alsoaery Abdulrhman
Published: August 2023

This article represent the important in understanding the theory of the firm in the social science research. Social science is the scientific study of how people relate within the human society and seek to establish the manner in which people behave. The main theories of the firms are been represented here with it philosophical foundation and an illustration of the interaction of people and organization and how the operation and process can be explained. This article establishes that firm theories are essential for explaining human activities in organization and thereby, it is vital for emerging theories of the firm to have a philosophical foundation.
Comparative energy and exergy analysis of a CPV/T system based on linear Fresnel reflectors
Authors: Calik Keziban , Firat Coskun
Published: August 2023

An energy generation system that is highly appealing is the integration of a photovoltaic system with linear Fresnel reflectors, especially when combined with a cooling thermal system. This research study involves a comparative analysis of energy and exergy of a CPV/T system that uses traditional linear Fresnel reflectors. The calculations indicate that, given the prevailing weather conditions and an average instantaneous solar radiation of 559 W/m2 at the location, the system can generate an average of 271.23 kWh of electricity and 613.63 kWh of thermal energy per month by utilizing highly efficient, long-lasting, and cost-effective monocrystalline solar cells in the considered the CPV/T system. The overall efficiency of the system is determined to be 54.1 %. According to exergy analysis, the setup experiences some loss of exergy in both its thermal and electrical components. The overall exergy efficiency is calculated as 54.96 %. Thus, on average, the system experiences an exergy loss of 1.01 kWh per day due to thermal factors and 1.70 kWh due to electrical factors. Although the system appears to be more efficient in exergy than energy, the exergy values highlight the need to reduce energy and exergy losses in order to improve the overall system performance.
Single and multi-objective dynamic optimization study of an industrial scale fed batch reactor
Authors: Patidar Bhowmick , Padhiyar Nitin
Published: August 2023

The present work focuses on obtaining optimal operational policies of an industrial scale penicillin fed-batch fermentation process using dynamic optimization (DO). The three process objectives considered in this work include, maximization of total penicillin formed (J
1), minimization of total biomass formed (J
2), and minimization of fed-batch operation time (J
3). The control variables for the optimization study include, the feed flowrates of sugar, soyabean oil, and phenylacetic. We perform a single-objective optimization study with J
1 as the objective function and showcased the importance of DO. Consequently, we solve three multi-objective optimization (MOO) problems corresponding to all the pairwise combinations of the aforementioned three objectives. Outcomes of MOO problems are presented in terms of several non-dominated Pareto-optimal solutions. Furthermore, descriptive analysis of three representative Pareto points for all the MOO problems is presented, which highlights the importance of MOO study of the penicillin bio-reactor.
On the Waring-Goldbach problem for two squares and four cubes
Authors: Zhang Min , Bai Hongxin , Li Jinjiang
Published: August 2023

Let

N

N

be a sufficiently large integer. In this article, it is proved that, with at most

O

(

N

1

12

+
ε

)

O\left({N}^{\tfrac{1}{12}+\varepsilon })

exceptions, all even positive integers up to

N

N

can be represented in the form

p

1

2

+

p

2

2

+

p

3

3

+

p

4

3

+

p

5

3

+

p

6

3

{p}_{1}^{2}+{p}_{2}^{2}+{p}_{3}^{3}+{p}_{4}^{3}+{p}_{5}^{3}+{p}_{6}^{3}

, where

p

1

,

p

2

,

p

3

,

p

4

,

p

5

{p}_{1},{p}_{2},{p}_{3},{p}_{4},{p}_{5}

, and

p

6

{p}_{6}

are prime variables. This result constitutes a large improvement upon the previous result of Liu [On a Waring-Goldbach problem involving squares and cubes, Math. Slovaca. 69 (2019), no. 6, 1249–1262].
Experimental design and data analysis and optimization of mechanical condition diagnosis for transformer sets
Authors: Chang Bingshuang , Xin Jian , Fu Miaomiao , Jagota Vishal , Soni Mukesh , Ray Samrat
Published: August 2023

The typical power transformer diagnosis approach is imprecise and unstable. A support vector machine classification algorithm is proposed, by designing an algorithm program that can improve the accuracy and speed of energy transformer diagnosis, the vibration signals of the surface twisting in different states are extracted by wavelet packet energy spectrum signal processing method, it is verified that the curve similarity between the vibration simulation model and the measured data is greater than 0.98, proving the simulation model’s validity. The calculation technique of online short circuit inductance is developed from the equivalent transformer model, and the variation error of simulation results is less than 0.05% when compared to the real transformer characteristics. The suggested state diagnostic technique successfully compensates for the drawbacks of the reactance method, which is incapable of detecting and judging the slightly loose or faulty winding. The method’s accuracy and superiority, as well as the practicability of the state diagnosis system, are demonstrated.
Significance of gyrotactic microorganisms on the MHD tangent hyperbolic nanofluid flow across an elastic slender surface: Numerical analysis
Authors: Alharbi Khalid Abdulkhaliq M. , Bilal Muhammad , Ali Aatif , Eldin Sayed M. , Alburaikan Alhanouf , Khalifa Hamiden Abd El-Wahed
Published: August 2023

In the current study, we numerically analyze the significance of motile microbes on the magnetohydrodynamic steady convective streams of tangent hyperbolic (TH) nanofluid flow across an elastic nonlinearly stretching surface of an irregular thickness. The consequences of an external magnetic field, thermal radiation, and thermal conductivity are also examined on the TH nanofluid. The governing system of equations (nonlinear set of partial differential equations) is transfigured into a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by using the similarity variable conversions. Furthermore, the reduced form of nonlinear ODEs is numerically computed through the parametric continuation method (PCM) using MATLAB software. The relative evaluation is carried out to authenticate the numerical outcomes. It has been observed that the energy field accelerates with the Rayleigh number, Weissenberg number, and Brownian motion. The mass propagation ratio improves with the effect of activation energy and decreases with the influence of chemical reactions. Furthermore, the motile microbes’ profile declined with the outcome of the Peclet and Lewis numbers. The skin friction increases up to 7.3% with various magnetic values ranging from 0.5 to 1.5. However, the energy transfer rate declines to 5.92%. The thermal radiation boosts the energy propagation rate and flow velocity by up to 11.23 and 8.17%, respectively.
Experimental study on recycled steel fiber-reinforced concrete under repeated impact
Authors: Gao Yongtao , Wang Bin , Xu Qiang , Liu Changjiang , Hui David , Yuan Weiguang , Tang Haifeng , Zhao Jianjun
Published: August 2023

Recycled steel fiber comes from the waste produced by machining. Adding recycled steel fiber into concrete can significantly enhance the toughness of concrete. In order to study the impact toughness of recycled steel fiber-reinforced concrete, the drop weight repeated impact experiment method was used to study the performance of recycled steel fiber-reinforced concrete under repeated impact load. Four kinds of recycled steel fiber-reinforced concrete samples with different volume contents were designed and made, and the loading impact experiments under five working conditions were carried out. Taking the drop weight and drop height as changing parameters, the corresponding blow counts of the first crack and sample failure under the impact of the drop hammer are recorded, and the ductility coefficients of different samples are calculated. The results show that the impact resistance of the sample decreases significantly with the increase of the drop weight and drop height. With the increase of recycled steel fiber content, the impact toughness of the sample increases obviously. The impact toughness of recycled steel fiber-reinforced concrete under standard loading conditions is the best.
Effect of rare earth Nd on the microstructural transformation and mechanical properties of 7xxx series aluminum alloys
Authors: Hao Jianpeng , Yan Liangming , Dai Yuxin
Published: August 2023

Al–Zn–Mg–Cu–Zr aluminum alloys have shown promise as materials for drill pipes; however, their application temperature is limited to below 120°C. This study investigates the influence of incorporating the rare earth element Nd on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al–Zn–Mg–Cu–Zr alloys. The microstructural evolution during casting, homogenization, hot deformation, and heat treatment processes is characterized using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The composition of the rare earth phase is determined through transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, first-principles calculations are employed to determine the formation enthalpy, cohesive energy, shear modulus, bulk modulus, Young’s modulus, and Poisson’s ratio of bulk Al8Cu4Nd. The effect of Nd addition on the mechanical properties of the alloy is investigated through hardness and tensile testing. The results indicate that the addition of Nd significantly refines the grain and dendrite sizes of the alloy and effectively suppresses recrystallization behavior during hot extrusion and solution treatment. TEM observations reveal the presence of micrometer-sized blocky Al8Cu4Nd phases and nanometer-sized Al3Nd phases. The Al3Nd phases are located near dislocations, hindering dislocation movement and thus enhancing the alloy’s mechanical properties. First-principles calculations demonstrate that the bulk Al8Cu4Nd phase exhibits superior structural stability, deformation resistance, and brittle characteristics, which negatively impact the ductility of the alloy. The alloy with Nd addition can maintain a high hardness value for an extended period at high temperature, and the tensile strength of the alloy with 0.26 wt% Nd addition reaches 396.2 MPa at 120°C. These results indicate that the rare earth element Nd can improve the high-temperature mechanical properties of the alloy.
Performance characteristics of flow in annular diffuser using CFD
Authors: Singh Hardial , Arora Bharat Bhushan
Published: August 2023

An annular diffuser is a critical component of the turbomachinery, and its prime function is to reduce the flow velocity. The current work is carried to study the effect of four different geometrical designs of an annular diffuser using the ANSYS Fluent. The numerical simulations were carried out to examine the effect of fully developed turbulent swirling and non-swirling flow. The flow behavior of the annular diffuser is analyzed at Reynolds number 2.5 × 105. The simulated results reveal pressure recovery improvement at the casing wall with adequate swirl intensity at the diffuser inlet. Swirl intensity suppresses the flow separation on the casing and moves the flow from the hub wall to the casing wall of the annulus region. The results also show that the Equal Hub and Diverging Casing (EHDC) annular diffuser in comparison to other diffusers has a higher static pressure recovery (C

p
 = 0.76) and a lower total pressure loss coefficient of (C

L
 = 0.12) at a 17° swirl angle.
Recent advances in the molecular design and applications of proteolysis targeting chimera-based multi-specific antiviral modality
Authors: Zhou Yang , Xu Shujing , López-Carrobles Nerea , Ding Dang , Liu Xinyong , Menéndez-Arias Luis , Zhan Peng
Published: August 2023

Viral infections represent a major threat to human health and the global economy; however, most of the currently available antiviral drugs are not fully effective in restricting viral replication and selecting for drug-resistant variants. Targeted protein degradation technologies are promising strategies to avoid or delay the emergence of drug resistance. Among the protein degradation-based multi-specific approaches, proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) is the main strategy applied in the antiviral field. In this review we will introduce the elements and mechanisms of action used by PROTAC technology, as well as the advantages of PROTACs over available antiviral drugs. We also summarize the latest progress in the application of PROTACs in antiviral research, discuss existing challenges and look into future opportunities for antiviral drug discovery.
Emerging Pathological Events in Liver Diseases of Pregnancy
Authors:   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, 140401, Punjab, India, Behera Rajalaxmi , Kumar Amit ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401, Chauhan Samrat ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401, Grewal Amarjot Kaur ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401, Singh Thakur Gurjeet ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401
Published: August 2023

Hepatic dysfunction in a gestational woman can arises from pregnancy-related factors, illnesses that occur concurrently with gestation, or previously existing hepatic disorders which is aggravated by pregnancy. Abnormal liver test findings occur in 3% to 5% of pregnancies due to a variety of probable causes, with clinical effects ranging from self-limiting to swiftly deadly. Abnormal liver tests in pregnant individuals are caused by four major conditions: (i) Physiological changes in pregnancy, (ii) Newly acquired Liver disease, (iii) Pre-existing Liver disease, and (iv) Pregnancy- related Liver disease. Physiologic changes in pregnant women lead to abnormal liver function tests. Hepatic disorders may result in severe illness and death in both mothers as well as fetuses. Quick identification of the disease is crucial, as in critical situations immediate delivery is vital for the mother and developing infant survival. This review focuses on liver problems that are specific to pregnancy. Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), which appears within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, is connected to liver damage. Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) is the most prominent all across the middle and the end term of pregnancy. After birth, pruritus and the related biochemical indications of cholestasis resolve. Both pre-eclampsia and HELLP (elevated liver enzymes, hemolysis, and low platelets) are severe conditions that arise in the last term of pregnancy. Acute fatty liver during pregnancy (AFLP) is a potentially dangerous, uncommon condition that can affect pregnancy’s third trimester. This review summarizes the etiologies, pathogenesis, identification, and treatment of hepatic disorders during pregnancy.
Comprehensive Regulatory Framework in Current Advancements of Medical Devices
Authors:   Chandigarh College of Pharmacy, Chandigarh Group of Colleges, Landran, Punjab - 160019, India, Dhawan Hirishita , Gupta Priyanka ,   Chandigarh College of Pharmacy, Chandigarh Group of Colleges, Landran, Punjab - 160019, India, Kamboj Anjoo ,   Chandigarh College of Pharmacy, Chandigarh Group of Colleges, Landran, Punjab - 160019, India
Published: August 2023

Background: A medical device is any tool, implant, or IVD that is intended to manage, ameliorate, avert, or identify a human disease. Simple thermometers, bandages, implants, and so on are examples. A medical device’s primary intended use is not accomplished chemically on or within the skin, nor does it require metabolization to accomplish that primary intended use. Medical devices are classified differently by different regulatory bodies. The FDA divides medical devices into three categories, whereas India and Europe divide them into four categories based on risk. Each regulated country has its own set of medical device regulations and guidelines. Purpose: The medical device sector is expected to showcase a remarkable journey of growth by 2029, achieving a 718.92-billion-dollar market with a CAGR of 5.5% over the expansion period of 2022–2029, making it the fastest-growing global market. The earlier medical device has simple inspection and testing but Post Covid19 due to an increase in imports, takeover from foreign manufacturers, and fostering innovation medical devices took off, becoming ever more sophisticated and widely available therefore the need for manufacturing and product standards was recognized, the new regulation was framed and regulatory specialists were recruited. Thereby led to the emergence of a whole new regulatory system and a post-marketing surveillance strategy. Methods: The analysis of current market size, share, and trends on medical devices for USA, Europe, and India was performed and current regulatory standards were observed which are continuously becoming stringent for all the countries with the advancement of technology. Conclusions: The Medical devices sector is the leading growing market. With the advancement in the medical device sector such as cybersecurity, digitalization, data privacy, and innovation, new entrants and new manufacturers the doors for entrepreneurship will open thus, it becomes highly important and necessary to introduce comprehensive regulatory guidelines for safety, effectiveness and customer protection, and satisfaction. The regulated medical devices sector will reach new heights with stringent vigilance and transparency benefitting society.
Role of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles in the Management of Diabetes: Current Trends and Perspectives
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy Practice, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab - 142001, India, Amir Mohammad , Vohra Manisha ,   Department of Pharmacy Practice, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab - 142001, India, Sharma Amit ,   Department of Pharmacy Practice, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab - 142001, India, Wadhwa Sheetu ,   School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab - 144401, India
Published: August 2023

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a severe metabolic disease in which a person’s body cannot control the glucose level in the blood; it results from a defect in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Nanotechnology is a rising area in pharmaceutical sciences as nanoparticles are reported to enhance drug efficacy obtained from plant sources through green synthesis. Purpose: The purpose of this review is to focus on the antidiabetic potential of various metallic nanoparticles like silver, gold, copper, and selenium by using their secondary metabolites like tannins, alkaloids, saponins, and steroids. The advantages of green nanoparticle synthesis are that they are eco-friendly, high temperature is not required, can be used on large-scale synthesis, and are cost-effective. Methods: A preliminary search was conducted in PubMed, OVID Medline, Embase, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases using keywords such as “Diabetes, nanoparticles, metallic nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles.” Results: This review includes various marketed formulations of silver and gold nanoparticles particles obtained from various biological sources like allium cepa, argyreia nervosa, callophyllumtomentosum, punica granatum, cassia auriculate, saracaasoka, gymnemasylvestre, etc. along with their research findings for reducing the antidiabetic activity. Conclusion:This review contains details about the silver and gold nanoparticles obtained from various biological sources used to treat diabetes.
Diagnosis of the rainfall-wheat yield relationship in the current and future climate change conditions in Eastern Algeria
Authors: Chourghal N. , Belguerri H. , Maamri K. , Bahlouli F. , Salamani A. , Benaini M.
Published: August 2023

Future projections indicate that rain-fed agriculture in North Africa is among the most vulnerable in the world in the context of future climate change. This article aims to diagnose the relationship between rainfall and wheat yield in both current and future climatic situations in a semi arid agro-climatic conditions represented by the region of Bordj Bou Arreridj. For the current situation, we used 15 years (1995–2009) of recorded rainfall and durum wheat yield series. Future rainfall projections (2071–2100) were generated by the MED-CORDEX climate model version CCLM4-8-19 under RCP 6.0 scenario. Simulated data over the observed period and that of the future on the maximum evapotranspiration (ETM) of durum wheat and the water deficit (WD) accumulated over the cycle as well as future yields are obtained using a simple agro meteorological crop simulation model, previously validated. In both current and future situations, precipitations, ETM, WD and yields data are first analyzed, then yields are related by regression to three components of rainfall: annual rainfall, cumulative rainfall over the crop cycle (November–June) and cumulative rainfall during spring (March–May). In the observed climate, annual precipitation averages 382.3 ± 96.3 mm, cumulative rainfall over the crop cycle (November–June) averages 278.3 mm and cumulative rainfall during spring is 101.9 mm. These last decrease to 303.7 ± 99.4, 232.3 and 83.3 mm in the future situation. Observed yields (1995–2009) averages1.9 ± 0.64 q/ha in the observed situation and decrease to 15.5 ± 0.54 q/ha in future climate. ETM are low and WD values are high in the current climate, with a worsening of the situation in the future climate, particularly during spring. The correlation between yields and précitations is always positive in both weather conditions, but the best R2 are 0.65 and 0.82 and concern spring rains. In semi-arid regions, cumulative rainfall towards the end of the growing season is currently impacting the grain yield of durum wheat and will become more decisive in the context of future climate change.
Assessment of metal trace elements in the echinoderm Paracentrotus lividus from the North-Eastern coast of Algeria
Authors: Boudeffa K. , Fekrache F. , Bouhayene S. , Bouchareb N. , Zaoui L. , Benselhoub A. , Bellucci S.
Published: August 2023

The echinoderm sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus Lamarck, 1816 (Echinodermata, Echinoidea) is a good species to be used in environmental and toxicology research, in particular as a heavy metal bio-indicator. Our study’s objective is to evaluate the amounts of Zn, Pb, Fe, and Cu in sea urchin specimens collected from the coast of Skikda (Northeast Algeria) in order to validate the fact that sea urchins are good indicators of metal pollution and can be used effectively for environmental biomonitoring. To realize our objectives, three sampling sites were chosen based on suspected forms and sources of contamination. The main physicochemical parameters of the seawater were measured to determine their quality. 15 specimens of urchins in each station were obtained from exposed rocky surfaces and transported to the laboratory. Before dissection, the biometric parameters and the total wet weight were determined. The soft organs (gut and gonads) of individuals were separated and utilized to evaluate the levels of heavy metals. The condition index and metal indices were also determined. Our study confirmed that P. lividus may be considered a valuable bioindicator of heavy metal contamination in marine ecosystems. The results show that the amounts of heavy metals differed significantly between stations. Samples taken from the Larbi Ben M’hidi station showed greater amounts of Pb, Zn, and Cu. These amounts are above the recommended limits for fish and aquatic animals. Also, the heavy metals found in sea urchins vary depending on the physicochemical parameters, trace metals in the seawater, and the individual biometric parameters. These higher concentrations of metals in seawater and in P. lividus individuals at the Larbi Ben M’hidi station are largely caused by the construction of a massive oil industry complex and terminal with several refineries and petrochemical units near this station, as well as by a considerable amount of domestic wastewater. Finally, to avoid this metallic pollution risk, it is necessary that permanent controls be imposed as soon as possible. Urban and industrial wastes must be treated before being released, in the hope of reducing future metal concentrations.
Ultrastructural characteristics of the reproductive organs of adult male helminth Heterakis dispar (Nematoda: Heterakidae)
Authors: Rzayev F. H. , Gasimov E. K. , Nasirov A. M. , Seyidbeyli M. I.
Published: August 2023

Nematodes belonging to the Heterakidae family are similar in appearance and their identification causes certain difficulties. For this reason, there is a need to define new taxonomic characteristics. On the other hand, despite the fact that the nematode Heterakis dispar Schrank, 1790, included in the same family, has a wide distribution area, there is little information about the ultrastructure of the parasite. Research on the ultrastructure of the reproductive system of this helminth hase not been conducted. Parasitic worms collected from the caeca of birds were identified, following which, based on the accepted methods of electron microscopy, blocks were prepared, cut, stained, pictures and electrograms were prepared and described. In the present study, the ultrastructural characteristics of the reproductive organs (testis, seminal vesicle, vas deferens and ejaculatory duct) of the adult nematode H. dispar, a specific parasite of domestic waterfowl, were studied with the help of light and electron microscopic methods. The obtained results were compared with the structure of other studied species (H. gallinarum Gmelin, 1790 and H. spumosa Schneider, 1866) of the Heterakidae family. Firstly, it was revealed that the reproductive organs of the male nematode H. dispar are located in the pseudocoelomic cavity, which is considered a taxonomic sign of this family. As in other species of the family, the testis, seminal vesicle, and wall of the vas deferens of the male nematode H. dispar consist of a basement membrane and an epithelial layer. In addition to the basement membrane, muscular and epithelial layers, the wall of the ejaculatory duct is also composed of glandular cells in the front part of the duct. It was revealed that, in the lumen of the tubular reproductive organs of the adult male nematode H. dispar, germ-cells turn into spermatogonia in the germinal zone and spermatocytes in the growth zone of the testis, spermatids in the seminal vesicle, incomplete formed spermatozoa in the vas deferens, and fully formed spermatozoa in the ejaculatory duct of the parasite. The spicules of the parasite nematode, which are the secondary sexual organs consist of a thick cuticle on the outside, and hypodermal origin cells and processes of nerve cells (dendrites and axons) on the inside. Two processes are found on the spicules, which is not observed in other nematodes of the same family.
Rare steppe plant communities in Ukraine: Status, threats and their minimization
Authors: Dubуna D. V. , Vakarenko L. P. , Ustymenko P. M. , Davydov D. A. , Dziuba T. P. , Baranovski B. A. , Karmyzova L. A. , Kulik A. F. , Zhykharieva A. V.
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, the impact of anthropogenic activities on natural vegetation is constantly increasing, the level of threats is raised, and newer risk factors are emerging. Recent trends in the anthropogenic impact on plant communities are extremely pronounced, especially on those listed in the Green Book of Ukraine (GBU). Identifying such trends is required for the further development of strategic and tactical planning for the preservation and restoration of rare grass, shrub, and subshrub steppe, petrophyte and psammophyte plant communities of the steppe and forest-steppe zones of Ukraine. In addition to well-established threat factors that cause changes in the habitat of plant communities or mechanically affect plants, new specific threats occur. Today, the most important among them in Ukraine are as follows: climate change, military activity, growing population in the industrial cities, population poverty and government corruption, changes in forms of land ownership and the creation of a land market, lack of knowledge and effective policy, including lack of popular scientific information about the status of specific species and plant groupings, inadequate management of protected areas, uncoordinated environmental protection measures, ineffective sanctions, insufficient monitoring of the consumption of natural biological resources. The preservation of rare grass, shrubby and subshrubby communities in the steppe zone of Ukraine should be provided with proper support at the state level. There is a pressing need for a law of Ukraine “On the preservation of the steppes in Ukraine” and this will require mechanisms for its implementation. The issue of developing a strategy for the conservation and balanced use of steppe ecosystems in Ukraine, whose area is one of the largest in Europe, has long been raised. The main goal of the strategy is the actual preservation of steppe communities (most of which are currently rare) ensuring their restoration, minimizing degradation, and stopping biodiversity loss. In order to develop specific actions to eliminate threats or reduce their impact on rare plant groupings, it is required to investigate the causes of threats and assess their level and duration. This is required to preserve the landscape and biotic diversity in the steppe zone of Ukraine.
Analysis of chosen growth and reproductive traits of manna ash (Fraxinus ornus) with regards to its expansive properties
Authors: Slobodník B. , Miňová L. , Rácz A. , Belčáková I. , Štefunková Z.
Published: August 2023

Manna ash (Fraxinus ornus L.) is a Mediterranean shrub or a small tree with the northern limit of its natural range in central Europe. At the same time, it is also a tree species which, due to its considerable tolerance to high temperatures and lack of moisture, as well as some expansive properties, could be expected to increase its range in the coming decades as a result of the changing climate and the associated spontaneous spread. The paper summarizes the results of several years of our research, during which we evaluated the following growth and reproductive characteristics: (1) phenological traits and the length of the growing season, (2) the intensity and evenness of fruiting, and (3) the numbers of individuals and stems according to the height categories. In addition, the species composition of vegetation cover was analysed on the sites with the occurrence of manna ash. Observations were made in two autochthonous populations of manna ash in Southern Slovakia and one allochthonous population in its central region. The onset of spring vegetative and generative phenophases showed a noticeable latitudinal trend during our observations (2015‒2019). In Central Slovakia, flowering and leafing of manna ash occurred on average more than two weeks later than in its southernmost region. The “Central Slovakian” population of manna ash was also characterised by the earliest onset of autumn vegetative phenophases and the lowest total length of the growing season. Despite these trends, flowering and fruiting in this population were relatively regular ‒ in contrast to the other two sites, it was observed every year. In this locality, we also observed the highest total numbers of individuals and stems in all the height categories and the markedly decreased occurrence of competing species. The achieved results point out to the considerable vigour and high reproductive ability of the allochthonous population of manna ash outside its natural range and the natural range of its most important competitors.
Heavy metal accumulation by Acer platanoides and Robinia pseudoacacia in an industrial city (Northern Steppe of Ukraine)
Authors: Lovynska V. , Holoborodko K. , Ivanko I. , Sytnyk S. , Zhukov O. , Loza I. , Wiche O. , Heilmeier H.
Published: August 2023

The role of tree species as a tool for bioaccumulation of heavy metals is an important current issue within the context of the increase of anthropogenic pressure in urban ecosystems. The article presents the results of research on the level of soil contamination with heavy metals and the processes of their accumulation by native and introduced tree species in green spaces of Dnipro city. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to detect concentrations of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb) in soil samples and the assimilation component in trees of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and Norway maple (Acer platanoides). The ranges of mean concentrations of heavy metals at different study sites within the city’s green infrastructure were as follows (mg/kg): 30.7–185.5 for Zn, 5.7–22.4 for Cu, 9.0–31.3 for Pb, and 0.213–0.598 for Cd. With respect to all four of these metals, the soils of the Metallurgists Square location were characterized by the highest concentrations of the metals, and the Pridneprovsky Park in the area of the outskirts of Dnipro city was characterized by the lowest ones. Compared to soils, the two investigated tree species had a significantly lower content of all studied metals in leaves. The heavy metal accumulations in the leaves of both R. pseudoacacia and A. platanoides were observed in the following decreasing order: Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd. Regarding the migration of heavy metals in the soil-plant system, the concentrations of ecopollutants in the plants were found not to be dependent on their content in the soil environment. The calculated bioaccumulation coefficients of heavy metals for both tree species were < 1. However, the results of heavy metal concentration in leaves of both introduced and native tree species evidenced their special role in heavy metal bioaccumulation. Compared to R. pseudoacacia, such native species as A. platanoides can be considered to be a more “sensitive” bioindicator of environmental pollution caused by heavy metals. Planting fast-growing tree species such as R. pseudoacacia and A. platanoides can in a short time be an environmentally appropriate and cost-effective measure to mitigate the unfavourable effects of heavy metals on the environment.