bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytotherapy in response to COVID-19 and risks of intoxication: A field study in the city of Meknes (Morocco)
Authors: Najem Mariame , Ibijbijen Jamal , Nassiri Laila
Published: August 2022

Context: The contagious global pandemic of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has prompted many Moroccans to turn to traditional phytoremedies. Aims: To highlight the ethnopharmacological information and the risks of intoxication related to the use of herbal medicine to combat COVID-19. Methods: Through a semi-structured questionnaire and using the “Free listing” technique, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 36 herbalists of the Meknes prefecture to collect ethnopharmacological data on species used in the fight against COVID-19. Then, many databases were used to document their pharmacological and toxicological activities. Results: A total of 36 species in 22 families were reported to be used to prepare traditional recipes against COVID-19. According to the relative frequency index of citation, the species Artemisia herba-alba Asso, Eucalyptus globulus Labill, Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry, Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, and Zingiber officinale Roscoe. were recommended by all respondents and recorded the highest usage values. Based on the value of the plant parts index, leaves were the most used part (PPV = 0.37). Most of the remedies were prepared as infusions and administered orally. The bibliographic research revealed that the plants used have several biological activities and are frequently used to treat respiratory diseases. However, some of them have been reported to be toxic. Conclusions: Recommended species are endowed with innumerable biological activities. They can be a promising alternative to combat COVID-19. However, their toxic effects require pharmacotoxicological studies to ensure the safety and efficacy of these natural remedies.
Molecular characterization and prediction of B-cell epitopes for the development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine through bioinformatics approach
Authors: Shehzad Aamir , Tacharina Martia Rani , Kuncorojakti Suryo , Ahmad Hafiz Ishfaq , A’la Rofiqul , Wijaya Andi Yasmin , Tyasningsih Wiwiek , Rantam Fedik Abdul
Published: August 2022

Context: The SARS-CoV-2 virus is the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is a severe public health crisis worldwide.Aims: To analyze the SARS-CoV-2 isolates of Surabaya and predict ORF1ab polyprotein epitopes through the bioinformatics approach for vaccine candidate development. Methods: Three genomic sequences of Surabaya isolates were obtained from the GISAID, NCBI and PDB Gen-bank databases and MEGA-11 software were used to understand the transformations in the isolates. The IEDB and VaxiJen, AllerTop, and ToxinPred web servers were used to predict B-cell epitopes and analyze their antigenicity, non-allergenicity, non-toxicity, respectively. Moreover, these epitopes were linked by EAAAK for 3D modeling, refinement, and validation through Swiss-Model, Galaxy Refine, and RAMPAGE web tools. Results: The Surabaya isolates, RSDS-RCVTD-UNAIR-49-A, 54-A, and 42-A, had 10, 20, and 16 mutations in nucleotides and depicted a phylogenetically close relationship to isolates of Egypt, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, respectively. A total of 71 sequential Orf1ab B-cell epitopes were predicted, and only three peptides were found to be antigenic, non-allergenic, and non-toxic. These epitopes were linked with the EAAAK linker to develop a 3D refined and validated structure. This construct was docked with TLR-3 receptor by the Cluspro webserver and found a high affinity of ORF1ab+TLR3 due to 15 hydrogen bonds. The construct demonstrated good humoral and cellular immune responses in the C-ImmSim server, and cloning in the expression vector pET28a (+) yielded a colon of 846bp. Conclusions: ORF1ab B-cell epitopes could be useful for developing effective vaccines to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Pharmacological studies of anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive and anti-pyretic compounds found in chromatographic fractions of Anogeissus leiocarpa (DC). Guill. & Perr. leaves
Authors: Idakwoji Precious A. , Atanu Francis O. , Nweje-Anyalowu Paul C. , Momoh Theophilus B. , Oniwon Wisdom O. , Elazab Sara T. , Sharkawi Souty M.Z. , Waheed Rania M. , Youssef Amal , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: August 2022

Context: The anti-nociceptive and anti-pyretic properties of the crude aqueous extract of Anogeissus leiocarpa (DC). Guill. & Perr. leaves have been reported. Aims: To investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and anti-pyretic properties of aqueous extract of A. leiocarpa leaves (AEAL) and its fractions to identify the bioactive compound(s). Methods: AEAL was fractionated successively and eluted in gradients of solvent mixture (n-hexane, ethylacetate, and methanol). Eluates, which showed similar TLC profiles were pooled to afford 5 fractions (F1-F5). AEAL and the fractions were subjected to phytochemical analysis and investigated for anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and anti-pyretic effects using carrageenan-induced paw edema and Brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia in rats, and acetic acid-induced writhing in mouse models, respectively. Results: Phytochemical analysis indicated presence of terpenoids, saponins, steroids, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins and alkaloids. At 200 mg/kg b.w, AEAL and F1-F5 recorded significant (p<0.05) improvements in paw edema, abdominal constrictions and pyrexia, which is comparable to the standard (ketoprofen or Aspirin), relative to the control groups, with F4 observed to be the most potent fraction. GC-MS analysis of F4 reveal the presence of hexadecenoic acid, 15-methyl-, methylester, 9-oxabicyclo (6.1.0) nonane, cis-, cholest-4-en-3-one, cholesterol and 3-diazo-1-methyl-1, 3-dihydro-indol-2-one. Conclusions: The results indicate that identified compounds, particularly 3-dihydro-indol-2-one, could be responsible for the anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and anti-pyretic properties of the extract.
Estudio farmacognóstico y capacidad antioxidante de la especie Smilax purhampuy Ruiz que crece en Ecuador
Authors: Soledispa Cañarte Pilar A. , Mangas Marín Raisa , García Mir Viviana , Miranda Martínez Migdalia , Matute Jimbo Carolina F. , Tello Mayorga Arlu I.
Published: August 2022

Context: Smilax purhampuy Ruiz (sarsaparilla) is traditionally used to treat various ailments such as sudorific, diuretic, purifying, hypoglycemic, arthritis, dermatological infections, intestinal, stomach and prostate inflammations, vaginitis and viral diseases. However, the investigations that justify the use of this species are scarce. Aims: To evaluate pharmacognostically and chemically leaves and rhizomes of sarsaparilla, and their antioxidant capacity. Methods: The pharmacognostic analysis of both plant organs was carried out from the determination of their physicochemical parameters, the phytochemical screening, the quantification of phenols and total flavonoids and the evaluation of the antioxidant capacity by three in vitro methods (FRAP, DPPH and ABTS). Results: The leaves and rhizomes of the species showed a similar chemical composition, although some metabolites seem to be found at different concentrations. Although the two organs studied presented antioxidant activity, it was higher in the leaves, which could be associated with the higher content of phenols and flavonoids. Conclusions: The results obtained made it possible to report the quality parameters for the first time and suggest the chemical composition of both organs, showing some differences between them. The evaluation of the antioxidant capacity demonstrated the potential of the species to be used as a natural remedy.
Suitability in compounding sterile preparations: An observational study in a referral hospital
Authors: Genatrika Erza , Puspitasari Ika , Kristina Susi Ari , Sulaiman Teuku Nanda Saifullah
Published: August 2022

Context: Compounding sterile preparations in hospitals requires special attention because the process is more complex. Errors that occur when compounding sterile preparations can cause contamination of the prepared preparations. Aims: To evaluate the compounding of sterile preparations in a referral hospital. Methods: This research was conducted by observing nine critical aspects in the compounding of sterile preparations. The research instrument used was a checklist, as regulated in USP <797> Guidelines and Basic Guidelines for Dispensing Sterile Preparations. After that, the most mixed preparations were tested for sterility using a fluid thioglycollate medium and soybean casein digest medium. Results: Of the 36 compounding sterile preparations, discrepancies were found in the aspects of compounding personnel (100%), building (100%), equipment (100%), aseptic procedures (100%), packaging (0%), labels (100%), storage (2.78%), distribution (2.78%) and quality assurance (100%). Furthermore, sterile preparations prepared in the cleanroom in this referral hospital indicate the occurrence of microbial contamination. Conclusions: Most of the critical aspects in compounding sterile preparations at this referral hospital have not met the recommendations of the USP <797> Guidelines and the Basic Guidelines for the Dispensing of Sterile Preparations, except for the packaging aspect. Improvements in several critical aspects need to be made to ensure the quality of the prepared preparations from microbial contamination.
Anthocyanin, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid of roselle flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) for immunomodulatory adjuvant therapy in oral manifestation coronavirus disease-19: An immunoinformatic approach
Authors: Ramadhani Nastiti Faradilla , Nugraha Alexander Patera , Rahmadhani Desintya , Puspitaningrum Martining Shoffa , Rizqianti Yuniar , Kharisma Viol Dhea , Noor Tengku Natasha Eleena binti Tengku Ahmad , Ridwan Rini Devijanti , Ernawati Diah Savitri , Nugraha Albertus Putera
Published: August 2022

Context: Oral manifestations that arose from COVID-19 infection often causes morbidity and systemic drug administration is less effective. Roselle flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is one of the plants that is often used in infusion as it gives health benefits. Hence, H. sabdariffa may benefit from adjuvant therapy to treat oral manifestation due to COVID-19. Aims: To investigate the potential of H. sabdariffa anthocyanins, tartaric acid, and ascorbic acid chemical compounds as antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and increasing tissue regeneration in oral manifestation due to COVID-19 infection in silico. Methods: Chemical compounds consisted of anthocyanins, (+)-tartaric acid, and ascorbic acid beside target proteins consisted of ACE2-spike, Foxp3, IL-10, IL6, IL1β, VEGF, FGF-2, HSP70, TNFR and MDA-ovalbumin were obtained from the database, ligand samples were selected through absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicology analysis, then molecular docking simulations, identification of protein-ligand interactions, and 3D visualization were performed. Results: Anthocyanins, tartaric acid, and ascorbic acid are the active compounds in H. sabdariffa, which act as antioxidants. The activity of anthocyanin compounds is higher than other compounds through value binding affinity, which is more negative and binds to specific domains of target proteins by forming weak binding interactions that play a role in biological responses. Anthocyanins have the most negative binding energy compared to tartaric-acid and ascorbic acid. Conclusions: Anthocyanins act as antioxidants; this mechanism increases heat shock protein-70 (HSP70), which may play an important role in increasing wound regeneration of oral manifestation in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as documented in silico.
Antidiabetic potential of leaf extracts of Ecobolium linneanum Kurz in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Nallapaty Srilakshmi , Malothu Narender , Pasupula Rajeswari , Ketha Alekhya
Published: August 2022

Context: In a general context, the importance’s of several medicinal plants has been explored in treating diabetes mellitus. In this connection, the antidiabetic potentiality needs to be established for one of the medicinally emerging plants Ecbolium linneanum Kurz. Aims: To evaluate the antidiabetic activity of petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts of E. linneanum leaves in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg BW) in male Wistar rats. Diabetic rats were treated orally with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of E. linneanum leaves at two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg BW/day) for 14 days. The blood glucose, lipid profile, serum enzyme levels, glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), creatinine and serum urea levels were monitored. Glibenclamide (10 mg/kg BW) was used as a standard hypoglycaemic drug. Results: The methanolic leaf extract at 200 mg/kg BW showed increasingly substantial (p<0.001) antidiabetic activity on day 14 and also significantly reduced (p<0.001) SGOT, SGPT, TG, TC, VLDL, LDL, HbA1c and antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GSH levels) increased significantly (p<0.001) compared to diabetic group. Renal parameters also decreased significantly (p<0.001) at both doses relative to diabetic control, but petroleum leaf extract and ethyl acetate leaf extract exhibited a less significant effect (p<0.05) compared to the methanol extract. All the extracts of leaves showed a protective effect on the oxidative status of the liver at tested concentrations (100 and 200 mg/kg BW). Conclusions: The present research findings revealed that E. linneanum leaf possesses significant anti-hyperglycaemic activity and encourages conventional use in the treatment of diabetes mellitus under the experimental conditions exposed in this study.
Volatile compounds from Phyla scaberrima (Juss. ex Pers.) Moldenke and Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants as possible SARS-CoV-2 protease inhibitors: Identification and in-silico study
Authors: Contreras-Puentes Neyder , Salas-Moreno Manuel , Mosquera-Chaverra Lina , Córdoba-Tovar Leonomir , Alviz-Amador Antistio
Published: August 2022

Context: COVID-19 is a pandemic that has affected the entire population, characterized by multisystemic involvement. With around 130 million cases of infection and more than 2.5 million deaths globally. However, the development of a low-efficacy treatment has led to the study of natural products as possible therapeutic alternatives against SARS-CoV-2. Aims: To identify volatile compounds present in two plants in the Colombian Pacific and carry out in-silico studies to search for promising inhibitory molecules against SARS-CoV-2 proteases. Methods: This research carried out the identification of metabolites of two plants identified in the Colombian Pacific, called P. scaberrima (Juss. ex Pers.) Moldenke y D. ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants. Ethanolic extracts were obtained by rotary-evaporation and determinated by GC-MS. Subsequently, in-silico studies were carried out by molecular docking against Mpro and PLpro using Autodock-vina 1.1. Also, a prediction of ADMET properties using SwissADME and GUSAR-Online server was performed. Results: Thus, 15 volatile compounds with similarities greater than 85% were identified from both extracts, mostly sesquiterpenic and monoterpenic compounds. The compounds that showed the highest affinity against Mpro were α-amorphene and phytol for PLpro. Likewise, these were contrasted with co-crystallized molecules such as boceprevir and VIR2-251 as control structures. Finally, the predictions of ADMET properties showed values consistent with the literature. Conclusions: Therefore, the follow-up of in-silico studies with these plants from Colombian pacific are considered as possible tools in the search for active molecules against proteases linked to virus.
Aromatic and medicinal plants in the Ifrane region (Morocco): Floristic diversity, with special emphasis on ethnobotanical and socioeconomic studies of six spontaneous plants
Authors: Radi Fatima Zahrae , Khamar Hamid , Remok Firdaous , Amine Sanae , Drioiche Aziz , Aoudry Saadia , Zekri Nadia , Bouzoubaa Amal , Zair Touriya
Published: August 2022

Context: As part of a huge project to assess Aromatic and Medicinal Plants (AMP) in the Ifrane-region, we made a list of these AMP through a floristic study, then we carried out ethnobotanical and socio-economic studies of six AMP belonging to three different genera (Lavandula L., Thymus L. and Crataegus L.). Aims: To investigate the AMP sector to enhance social and sustainable development of Ifrane region. Methods: In order to explore the floristic diversity of aromatic and medicinal plants in the Ifrane region, six field surveys were conducted, while all relevant floristic and medicinal literature was consulted. The ethnobotanical and socioeconomic surveys were carried out using questionnaire forms and were conducted during six campaigns among informants. Results: The inventory of spontaneous aromatic and medicinal flora in the study area highlighted the existence of 130 species belonging to 45 genera and 17 botanical families. The obtained results revealed that the exploitation in the spontaneous state of leaves and flowers, and the “decoction” method of preparation were the most frequently used ways to treat various diseases. The informants declared facing many problems such as high production costs, limited technical and financial means, processing and marketing difficulties, and lack of quality control and raw material traceability. Conclusions: This study will be a database for the actors of the AMP sector in Ifrane. Thus, it will contribute to both social and sustainable developments of this sector in this region.
Antiulcer effect of Helminthostachys zeylanica (L.) Hook. root extract on ethanol-induced acute gastric lesion in Wistar rats
Authors: Fitrya Fitrya , Amriani Annisa , Novita Rennie Puspa , Pamela Friscilla Nindita
Published: August 2022

Context: Helminthostachys zeylanica is well known as a traditional medicine with various pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. These activities are needed in the treatment of gastric ulcers. Aims: To evaluate the effectiveness of H. zeylanica as an antiulcer agent on acute peptic ulcer. Methods: The antiulcer effect of the H. zeylanica ethanolic extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg BW) was studied through ulcer index, physicochemical properties of gastric juice and histopathological analysis in male Wistar rats. Results: The extract reduces ulcer index, gastric fluid volume, total acidity and increases gastric protection factors such as pH and mucus levels. These results were not significantly different from omeprazole (p>0.05). Photomicrograph analysis showed improvement of membrane structure in extract-treated animals. Conclusions: H. zeylanica extract could be valued as an antiulcer agent.
Antimicrobial prescriptions in cancer patients: An evaluation based on clinical and pharmacotherapeutic indicators
Authors: García Falcón Dorgerys , Rodríguez Alfaro Maryenis , Reyes Hernández Ivette , Araya Guerrero Patricio , Garrido Gabino , Álvarez Sosa Margie , Bermúdez Camps Isis B.
Published: August 2022

Context: The inappropriate use of antimicrobials is a public worldwide health problem that causes increased morbidity and mortality, bacterial resistance, and care costs and hospitalizations. Aims: To evaluate the prescription of antimicrobials in patients treated at a Cuban cancer hospital, based on clinical indicators and pharmacotherapeutics. Methods: Retrospective descriptive study of prescription-indication of antimicrobials, during the period of January-December 2018, in a Cuban cancer hospital. Hospitalized patients with antimicrobial treatment were included in the study. The determination of prevalent microorganisms and bacterial resistance was analyzed through the book of infection control and antibiograms. The adequate and inadequate categories of prescriptions based on clinical and pharmacotherapeutic indicators were established to evaluate the prescription. Results: In a sample of 50 patients, laryngeal cancer (40%), surgical wound infection (48%), and beta-lactam pharmacological group (46.4%) prevailed. Eight germs were isolated, with a predominance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (26.3%) with gentamicin resistance (66.7%). Staphylococcus spp. presented resistance to ciprofloxacin (63.6%) and amikacin (54.5%). Escherichia coli exhibited resistance to gentamicin (66.7%) and ciprofloxacin (55.6%). Appropriate prescriptions predominated (52%), with the indicator ‘indication and therapeutic scheme’ being the most difficult. Conclusions: The inappropriate use of antimicrobials constitutes a problem in cancer patients and highlights the need to implement actions that contribute to raising the quality of prescriptions to prevent microbial resistance.
Plantas medicinales con potencial actividad neuroprotectora estudiadas en cepas transgénicas de Caenorhabditis elegans. Revisión sistemática 2010-2021
Authors: Lozano Yenny Y. , Giraldo Sara E. , Castro Harold S. , Sánchez Ruth M.
Published: August 2022

Context: Treatments for neurodegenerative diseases generate multiple adverse effects and do not reverse the progressive damage of the disease. It is a priority to find alternatives from medicinal plants as a source of molecules with neuroprotective potential. Caenorhabditis elegans as an in vivo screening model allows evaluating and selecting molecules with neuroprotective activity. Aims: To carry out a systematic review between the years 2010-2021, on traditionally used plant resources with potential neuroprotective activity evaluated in C. elegans. Methods: The review was carried out in 4 stages according to the PRISMA methodology. 1. Research question approach and objectives to define the thematic axes and create the search algorithm. 2. Search of ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Ebsco, Taylor and Francis and Scielo databases, 3. Selection of articles according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. 4. Organization of information relevant to the review. Results: The search yielded 122 articles, defining 12 base articles for the construction of the review. The extracts in dichloromethane, butanol, ethanolic and aqueous stand out; as well as iridoid and flavonoid type biocompounds. Antioxidant activity was the most cited. Among the neuroprotective effects in C. elegans transgenic strains, the increase in the percentage of survival of nematodes, reduction of paralysis, inhibition of protein aggregation and regulation of genes associated with stress stand out. Conclusions: The identification of bioactive molecules and extracts obtained from medicinal plants of traditional use with neuroprotective potential, is favored by the use of C. elegans as a model for the study of neurodegenerative diseases.
Moringa oleifera extract regulates the expression of some sickle cell related genes in normal Wistar rats
Authors: Cyril-Olutayo Mojisola C. , Omotuyi Idowu O.
Published: August 2022

Context: In the current study, we employed gene-regulatory based approach to underscore the putative mechanism of how components of Moringa oleifera (MO) ethanol extract exert its antisickling effects. Aims: To evaluate the relationship between mRNA expression profiles of some sickle cell related genes in normal rats. Methods: Normal Wistar rats were administered with MO at 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight and the positive control group administered with folic acid for 14 days. The bone marrow and kidneys were harvested, followed by RT-PCR to assess the expression of Gardos channel [kccn1, kccn4], antioxidant [CAT, G6PD], and progression of meiosis [p21, p27] genes. Hematological parameters were also analyzed. Results: A downregulation of the Gardos channel genes (KCNN-4 and KCNN-1) was observed on MO intervention at 100 mg/kg while folic acid showed no significant expression. Significantly (p<0.05), MO intervention increased antioxidant system in sickle cell anemia scenario due to the expression pattern of antioxidant genes analyzed in this study and caused changes in hematological parameters such as PCV, HBC, MCH relative to the control groups. Conclusions: The study concluded that the administration of the ethanol extract of Moringa oleifera leaf increased blood production, has high antioxidant properties and reduced the expression of the Gardos channel pathway. These are important factors in the management of sickle cell disease and MO could be a candidate of interest in drug development.
Willingness to participate in clinical trials: A cross-sectional analysis in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Dang Thoai N. , Bao Tran T.T. , Quynh Chau N.D. , Quang Trung V.
Published: August 2022

Context: Clinical trial is an experiment on comparable groups of human beings which evaluates the efficacy of a treatment or medical intervention by comparing the effects with other testing treatments or control treatments. Clinical trials help develop alternative treatment solutions or a preventative method for disease as well as support participants with medical and healthcare services during the trial period. Other benefits of clinical trials include gaining information, ensuring health issues, detecting early disease symptoms, and reducing medical services costs. Aims: To evaluate willingness to participate (WTP) in clinical trials (CT) in Ho Chi Minh city and examine the factors associated with it. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through the online sampling method and gathered 581 valid responses during two weeks in February 2022. Results: Among 581 respondents, 71.6% stated they were willing to participate in CT, while 48.2% stated that they would let their family enroll. WTP in CT was higher in participants of younger age, single, not having children, healthy, and without chronic disease. Vietnamese age was associated with WTP in CT. Conclusions: Assessing WTP in CT helps state management agencies, organizations and research institutes design suitable CT models and increase the voluntary participation rate in CT.
Effect of cocoa administration during orthodontic tooth movement on RUNX2, calcium levels, and osteoclast bone-resorbing activity in rats
Authors: Alhasyimi Ananto Ali , Pudyani Pinandi Sri
Published: August 2022

Context: Cocoa contains caffeine-rich methylxanthine, which promotes accelerated orthodontic tooth movement. Caffeine affects calcium ion equilibrium, causing low bone density and shortening orthodontic treatment. It is unclear how cocoa affects periodontal tissue reconstruction when orthodontic stress is applied. Aims: To evaluate the effect of cocoa administration during active orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) on RUNX2, calcium levels, and osteoclast bone-resorbing activity in rats. Methods: A total of 48 Sprague Dawley rats were used. It was divided into four subgroups depending on the observation day: 0, 1, 7, and 14 (n = 3) for each group of 12 animals: group A (positive control, 2.3 mg of caffeine), group B (cocoa dose 1.37 g), group C (cocoa dose 2.05 g), and group D (cocoa dose 2.74 g).). The upper incisors of both groups were banded with a 3-spin loop spring that exerted 35 g of orthodontic force under anesthesia. Cocoa was given orally to the treatment group once a day based on the dose utilized. RUNX2 levels during OTM were determined by ELISA. Furthermore, lacuna resorption measured osteoclast bone-resorbing activity and the atomic absorption spectrophotometer assessed calcium levels. Data gathered were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and post hoc LSD (p<0.05). Results: RUNX2 levels in the compression side were significantly different between the groups. Similarly, lacuna resorption depth was significantly different between the groups (p<0.05), but daily cocoa administration does not significantly downregulate calcium levels in rats during active OTM (p>0.05). Conclusions: Cocoa supplementation during active OTM increases the RUNX2 levels and osteoclast bone-resorbing activity in rats.
Fetal intervention: Less developed field of interventional radiology
Authors: Sharma Rajaram , Thakkar Hemangini , Baisoya Rinkey , Nath Tiwari Tapendra
Published: August 2022

Interventional radiology (IR) has played an essential role in diagnosing and treating various intra natal entities with minimally invasive surgical procedures. IR treatment is the substitute to the many procedures in which once open surgery was needed. IR procedure can be performed under Digital Radiography (x-ray), Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT). IR has proved to increase effectiveness as medical imaging technology gives radiologists high visibility, reduces risk as surgery performed are minimally invasive, saves time as there is a short hospital stay, and reduces the pain as procedures are performed with a small incision. Because of quicker recovery time, patients can get back to their daily routine early. Progressive development of prenatal intervention and surgeries was possible due to rapid advances in imaging techniques and prenatal diagnosis over the last few decades. Rapid advanced techniques have become an integral part of managing high-risk pregnancies. In addition to this, the rapidly growing capability of digital optics and miniaturized instrumentation has now allowed fetoscopic procedures to become a reality. With improved imaging techniques, the identification of congenital defects and fetal malformations increases during the antenatal period. Understanding how to treat specific fetal conditions improves outcomes from these treatment modalities. We provide an assessment that begins with a crisp background of fetal surgery, including the history, ethics surrounding fetal surgery, and considerations of dealing with the problems during the fetal intervention.
The effectiveness of the new generation airship’s tail-wing schemes and its effect on the aerodynamic characteristics of the airship
Authors: Ta Xuan Tung
Published: August 2022

When the airship moves in the air, the tail-wings play a very important role in controlling and maintaining stability. The choice of the tail-wing layout determines the design, manufacture, construction and aerodynamic shape of each type of airship. On the tail-wings extra wings, brake wings are also put to help the flight process of safety. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to study the effectiveness of the tail-wing layouts. The authors used the numerical method to study the aerodynamic characteristics of airships with different tail-wing layouts. The results obtained show the effectiveness of each type of tail-wing layout in ranges of angle of attack. This result can also be used for the calculation and design of the airship.
Numerical and experimental investigation of cutting temperature in turning with a self-propelled rotary tool
Authors: Duong Quoc Dung
Published: August 2022

This study focuses on the analysis of temperature distribution in a self-propelled rotary insert for dry turning of SKD11 steel both experimentally and numerically using ABAQUS solver. The simulation results showed that the tool temperature increased with increasing the cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut, and the self-propelled rotary tool exhibited a considerably lower temperature than that of the one with a fixed cutting edge. The simulation results were experimentally validated by capturing the steady temperature field in the cutting zone with an IR camera. Thanks to the continuous introduction of a fresh part of the cutting edge into the shear region of the self-propelled rotary tool, both simulated and experimental results revealed a large reduction in the tool temperature of more than 170oC at various cutting conditions.
INFLUENCE OF BUDGETARY PARTICIPATION, DECENTRALIZATION, ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT, AND INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS ON THE MANAGERIAL PERFORMANCE OF REGIONAL GOVERNMENT APPARATUSES
Authors: Nugrahaeni Indina Dhesta , Palahiyah Palahiyah , Febriyani Shoma
Published: August 2022

This study aims to determine the effect of budgetary participation, decentralization, organizational commitment, and internal control systems on the managerial performance of regional government apparatuses. This study uses quantitative research methods, The population in this study was Structural officials of the Regional Apparatus Work Unit (SKPD) in Banten Province, Indonesia, The sample selection in this study was based on purposive sampling. This study distributed 170 questionnaires. Of these, 87 questionnaires were returned of respondents returned. Data were analyzed based on multiple regression and path analysis (Analysis Path) utilizing the SPSS program. Data were analyzed used the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The data processed were respondents' answers related to Budgetary Participation (PA), Decentralization (D), Organizational Commitment (KO), Internal Control System (SPI), and Managerial Performance (KM). Based on the results obtained in hypothesis 1, there is a significant effect of budgetary participation on managerial performance of regional government apparatuses, the result of tcount> ttable (2,136> 1,456) with a significance level of 0.36 (0.00 <0,05)  this means that if budgetary participation increases it will improve managerial performance, hypothesis 2 there is a significant influence of decentralization on managerial performance in Structural officials of the Regional Apparatus Work Unit (SKPD) in Banten Province, Indonesia, the result of tcount> ttable (1,999> 1,456) with a significance level of 0.049 (0.00 <0.05) this means that if decentralization increases it will improve managerial performance, hypothesis 3 there is a significant effect of organizational commitment on managerial performance of regional government apparatuses, the result of tcount> ttable (2,409> 1,456) with a significance level of 0.18 (0.00 <0,05)  this means that if organizational commitment increases it will improve managerial performance, and hypothesis 4 there is a significant effect of internal control system on managerial performance of regional government apparatuses, the result of tcount> ttable (3,038> 1,456) with a significance level of 0.03 (0.00 <0,05)  this means that if internal control system increases it will improve managerial performance.
Variational methods to second-order Dirichlet boundary value problems with impulses on the half-line
Authors: Djibaoui Meriem , Moussaoui Toufik
Published: August 2022

In this paper, the existence of solutions for a second-order impulsive differential equation with a parameter on the half-line is investigated. Applying Lax-Milgram theorem, we deal with a linear Dirichlet impulsive problem, while the non-linear case is established by using standard results of critical point theory.
A brief review on water resources and climate change
Authors: Kılıç Çetinkaya Belgin , Aslandoğan Ezgi
Published: August 2022

Human-caused climate change poses a growing threat to water resources that are valuable today and for the future. In addition, climate change is thought to have negative impacts on food, economy, natural resources and sustainability worldwide. In this article, the relationship between water resources and climate change is discussed and the importance of water is emphasized. In addition, recommendations are made for the sustainable use of water resources.
Gene Silencing RNAi Technology: Uses in Plants
Authors: Kaya Çağlar , Sarıyer Tolga
Published: August 2022

Ensuring sustainable food production in national and global area depends on the determination of plant species and varieties that can survive under the influence of various stress factors that may occur due to global climate changes and other factors that adversely limit growth and development, and depends on the protection and development of existing ones. It is important to develop new plant varieties that are resistant to abiotic stress factors that have occurred as a result of global climate changes. At this point, modern biotechnological methods have been widely needed in plant breeding in recent years. One of these techniques is RNAi technology. The mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi) is defined as post-transcriptional gene silencing or regulation of gene expression, resulting in the degradation of mRNA chain, which is the complement of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) entering the cell. RNA interference begins when double-stranded RNA is cut into small inhibitory RNAs (siRNA) by an RNase III enzyme called as Dicer. These siRNAs then bind to the RNA-inducing silencing complex (RISC) which is a multiprotein-RNA nuclease complex. RISC uses siRNAs to find complementary mRNA and cuts the target mRNA endonucleolytically. The resulting decrease in specific mRNA leads to a decrease in available protein(s). Post transcriptional gene silencing, RNA interference and other forms of RNA silencing have been observed particularly in plants. In recent years, RNAi studies, which are among the leading topics in the global area, have shown that non-coding RNAs in plants play a role in the control of tissue differentiation and development, signal transmission, interaction with phytohormones, abiotic (drought, salinity, etc.) and environmental factors such as biotic stress. In this review paper, the basics of RNAi mechanism and the usage of RNAi in plants are explained.
Agricultural wastes in climate change mitigation
Authors: Sarıyer Tolga , Kaya Çağlar
Published: August 2022

Today, among the wastes that harm the environment, there are many wastes such as cleaning agent wastes and expired drugs. In addition to these wastes, agricultural wastes are an important issue. The vast majority of agricultural wastes are wastes containing high cellulose. Agricultural wastes include tobacco plant waste, vineyard and fruit tree pruning residues, wheat straw, cob, cotton stalk, mushroom compost residues, corn stalk, husk, rice bran, pulp, lentil waste, wood shavings, bean straw, leather waste, soybean straw, wastes consisting of a dysfunctional irrigation system and plastic mulches. Gases especially causing greenhouse gas effect (carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and other) which are released by the destruction of agricultural and other wastes by burning, accumulate in the atmosphere, causing global warming and negatively affecting the climate. The study has been compiled with the aim of revealing solutions for the use or recycling of agricultural wastes that cause greenhouse gases when destroyed by incineration.
Review of phase change materials as an environmental approach for postharvest fruit and vegetable cold storage
Authors: Güngör Ertuğral Tuğba
Published: August 2022

Today, almost half of the cultivated products are lost before they even reach the consumption stage. Data show that one-third of food never reaches the end consumer. It is known that 50% of these losses are caused by technical errors related to control and temperature management. Reducing post-harvest losses will play an important role in the sustainable feeding of the world's population in the future. From this point of view, preventing or at least minimizing the loss of fresh fruits and vegetables has become an important issue. Cold storage with petroleum fuels and electrical energy is costly and causes environmental pollution. Recently, phase change material (PCM), which is a clean, environmentally friendly and renewable energy source, is an interesting material in this field. PCM s are capable of storing the ambient heat as latent heat energy and returning the latent heat energy they have stored during temperature rises and falls to the environment. With a PCM with the right phase change temperature range, it can provide maximum energy savings and an economical storage system by working as low and high temperature barriers, as well as an environmentally friendly cooling that reduces carbon emissions. This study is a compilation research examining the storage with thermal energy storage, which is a new generation, energy-saving environmentally friendly method, which includes PCMs that can be preferred for cold storage of fruits and vegetables after harvest.
Tracheal Anatomy and Factors Contributing to Tissue Engineering
Authors: Nahumi Aida , Panahi Yassin , Asadi Asadollah , Abdolmaleki Arash
Published: August 2022

: The trachea is a respiratory organ, which connects the larynx to the main flageolet and the lungs, made up of cartilaginous rings and a mucosal layer-lined tube characterized by smooth muscle and connective tissue. Tissue engineering is one of the most promising and potent therapeutic approaches for curing long-segment tracheal stenosis. This study reviewed articles indexed in scientific databases including ISI, SID, PubMed, and PubMed Central between 1993 and 2022. Although three-dimensional scaffolds are a new therapeutic approach, they have opened up new avenues for renovating pathologically problematic tissues. This review article discusses the anatomy of the trachea and therapeutic approaches such as tissue engineering to construct tracheal cartilage to replace the damaged trachea. Next, we concisely review the recent advances in stem cell biology in scaffolds and their interplay with growth factors to optimize an engineered tracheal epithelium.
Comparison of Demirjian and Willems Methods in Estimating Dental Age and Modification of Willems Method for 7 - 15 Year Olds Iranian Population
Authors: Barati Saeideh , Khafri Soraya , Rahmati Kamel Manouchehr , Sheikhzade Sedigheh , Abesi Farida , Seyedmajidi Seyedali , Ghasempour Maryam
Published: August 2022

Background: Age estimation is of great importance in many medical fields and dentistry. It is also extensively used in archeology, criminology, and forensic medicine. Considering the importance of dental age estimation, this study was designed. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of Demirjian and Willems methods for estimating the dental age of 7 - 15-year-olds population of the north of Iran. We also modified the Willems method for this population and compared the results of the modified and original Willems methods. Methods: In this cross-sectional, descriptive, analytical study, a total of 1320 panoramic radiographs in the age range of 7 - 15 years, were examined. Dental age was determined by the Demirjian and Willems methods and compared with the chronological age. Next, a formula based on the Willems method was formulated. Finally, the results of the modified and original Willems methods were compared. Results: The Demirjian method overestimated the chronological age by 0.49 years (0.57 for girls and 0.36 for boys), and the Willems method overestimated this age by 0.07 years (0.03 for girls and 0.14 for boys), too. The mean error of the modified Willems method was zero for the total sample, although for most age subgroups, the modified method was more erroneous than the original method. Demirjian method had larger overestimations for girls than for boys, whereas the opposite was found for the Willems method. Conclusions: The Demirjian and Willems methods both overestimated the chronological age. However, the overestimations were smaller in the Willems method. Based on the findings, the original Willems method was the preferred choice for age estimation.
Psychometric Study Using Item Response Theory of an Instrument Developed for Assessment of Iranian Mental Health Problems
Authors: Dejman Masoumeh , Baradaran Eftekhari Monir , Falahat Katayoun , Mahmoodi Zohreh , Padyab Mojgan , Forouzan Ameneh Setareh
Published: August 2022

Background: Currently, in addition to the undeniable impact of cultural factors on mental health problems’ diagnosis and treatment methods, the use of rapid, short, and intervention-based instruments can be effective in the accurate diagnosis of mental health problems, especially in the health system of developing countries. Objectives: This study aimed to validate an instrument developed for screening patients with common mental health problems using item response theory (IRT). Methods: The study was conducted in Semnan province (with Persian ethnicity), Iran, from August 2017 to February 2018. A 101-item tool consisted of district common mental health problems (i.e., depression, anxiety, and obsession), along with a functional checklist. The development of the instrument involved a pilot study and psychometric testing. The IRT-based analysis was used as the item-reduction method to evaluate the shortened tool as an appropriate screening tool. The participants were healthy individuals and patients with depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The data were analyzed using Stata software (version 15.1). Results: The study participants were 160 individuals (58.2% male) with a mean age of 36.3 ± 11.2 years. All item impact factors were within the range of 1.8 - 5. The mean values of clarity, simplicity, relevance, and scale-level content validity index/averaging calculation method of the instrument were 96.73 ± 0.70, 97.64 ± 0.61, 98.2 ± 1.9, and 97.09 ± 0.63, respectively. Cronbach’s alpha and internal consistency coefficient were 0.88 and 0.7. Moreover, 13, 5, and 12 items were excluded using IRT from depression, anxiety, and OCD dimensions based on the threshold criteria, respectively. Conclusions: Iranian screening tools for mental health problems can provide qualified information with the least error and the most precision in appropriate early diagnosis and decrease the burden of mental health problems in the national healthcare system.
The Prolonged Effect of a Spinal Adjuvant Drug or an Iatrogenic Complication: An Unprecedented
Authors: Mishra Priyanka , Kumar Mohit , Makker Robina , Garg Pankaj Kumar Kumar
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Bupivacaine is one of the most widely used local anesthetics in spinal anesthesia. Clonidine is a known adjuvant added to prolong the duration of anesthesia. Amongst the complications related to spinal block, neurological complications can be the most troublesome. Case Presentation: We presented a case where the reversal of motor and sensory blockade after spinal anesthesia with bupivacaine and clonidine was extremely delayed in the absence of any neurological injury. Conclusions: Such cases remind the significance of timely and elaborate assessment in the detection of iatrogenic complications and the unpredictability of physiological and pharmacological interactions.
The Prognostic Significance of Pulmonary CT Angiography in Predicting the Outcomes of Acute Pulmonary Thromboembolism
Authors: Karbasi Mahsa , Behzadmehr Razieh , Tarzamni Mohammad Kazem , Javadrashid Reza
Published: August 2022

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a potentially fatal condition. Knowledge of the prognostic factors for PE may facilitate the management of these patients. Pulmonary computed tomography (CT) angiography (PCTA) can play an effective role in their management. Objectives: To evaluate the prognostic value of certain PCTA-derived indicators of right ventricular dysfunction in patients with acute PE. Patients and Methods: A total of 61 hemodynamically stable patients with acute PE underwent PCTA and were followed-up for 60 days. The Qanadli index and 60-day mortality represented the PE severity and prognostic endpoints, respectively. The clinical significance of the following variables in predicting PE severity and mortality was examined: An abnormally positioned interventricular septum, right ventricular to left ventricular diameter ratio (RVD/LVD) on the axial plane, contrast medium reflux into the inferior vena cava (IVC), transverse diameter of the pulmonary trunk, and bolus-time curve indicators. Results: The 60-day mortality was estimated at 14.8% in this study. An abnormal interventricular septum morphology, RVD/LVD ratio, and contrast medium reflux into the IVC were significantly correlated with the Qanadli index. The pulmonary trunk diameter was the only predictor of 60-day mortality (optimal cutoff value, 33.5 mm; sensitivity, 66.7%; and specificity, 65.4%). The bolus-time curve indicators did not have any significant predictive value. Conclusion: Some PCTA-derived indicators of right ventricular dysfunction may serve as severity/prognostic predictors in hemodynamically stable patients with acute PE.