bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies for Enhancing Extracellular Electron Transfer in Environmental Biotechnology
Authors: Hazzan Oluwadamilola , Zhao Biyi , Xiao Yong
Published: June 2023

Electroactive microorganisms have received a lot of interest in the field of environmental engineering and biotechnology because of their extracellular electron transfer (EET) capability of energy recovery and environmental remediation. However, the low efficiency of EET remains a barrier to its practical implementation. This review presents an introduction to EET, followed by addressing strategies for enhancing EET through different approaches including enhancing EET by mediator materials, external electricity, photo, and magnetism as well as integrated strategies, that is, the combination of multiple means to promote extracellular electron transport and improve the performance of microbial electrochemical systems. Finally, the challenges, perspectives, and new directions for EET enhancement will be discussed.
Polymeric Hydrogels As Drug Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Kumar Avinash , Patra Priyanka , Nutan Bhingaradiya , Bhalani Dixit V , Chandel Arvind Kuamr Singh
Published: June 2023

Polymeric hydrogels are promising polymeric functional materials that have been widely used in the biomedical field as an emerging carrier of various therapeutic agents. Polymeric hydrogels as a carrier of therapeutics can leverage therapeutically beneficial outcomes of drug delivery than systemic chemotherapy and can provide spatial and temporal control over the release of various therapeutic agents. Polymeric hydrogels are cross-linked three-dimensional networks constructed by hydrophilic polymers and they are capable of absorbing and re-taining a large amount of water. Polymeric hydrogels share many physiochemical features with natural tissues due to their water abundance, biomimetic microstructure, and intrinsic flexibility. Polymeric hydrogels have excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and lower toxicity. Polymeric hydrogels enhance the convenience and efficiency of drug delivery by assisting in situ gelation and controlling drug release by changing their volume and other properties when it encounters some stimuli (e.g., heat, pH, light, and ultrasound). This review aims to outline the overview of polymeric hydrogels, properties, types, advantage, disadvantages, characteri-zation, and their application with present status and future perspective used for the delivery of therapeutics in pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences.
Tailored Therapy in Severe Asthma: The Importance of Moving beyond a Disease-Centric Approach
Authors: Photiades Andreas , Vlassi Lamprini , Kontogianni Chrysoula , Gaga Mina , Zervas Eleftherios
Published: June 2023

Despite recent advances in optimizing reliever, controller and maintenance therapy in asthma, a large subgroup of asthmatic patients continues to suffer from severe asthma, affecting their psychosociological status, their quality of life and even their life expectancy. Identifying and recognizing the specific phenotypic and endotypic characteristics in asthma has provided the medical community to drive the development of targeted therapies that are proved to benefit patients in terms of symptom control, exacerbation rate, quality of life and lung function. Adopting a more tailored and targeted approach is proving to be the key factor in reforming severe asthma treatment, minimizing the patients’ burden, as well as the socioeconomical impact worldwide. In this review, we are going to describe the different phenotypes and endotypes of asthma, the currently approved targeted therapies in severe asthma as imprinted in Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) 2021, as well as other potential pharmacological agents and strategies investigated or currently under investigation for the treatment of severe asthma.
A Machine Learning Based EMA-DCPM Algorithm for Production Scheduling
Authors: Wang Long , Liu Haibin , Xia Minghao , Wang Yu , Li Mingfei
Published: June 2023

Being able to complete the production of the product project on time is the prerequisite to win more tasks, many enterprises have begun to study intelligent scheduling algorithms to achieve dynamic control of the total project duration. However, the production operation time of products is highly volatile, and it is impossible to predict the possible operation time of future products. In the actual production environment, we often encounter extreme situations such as mixed production lines, multiple varieties, variable batches, etc. A dynamic optimization CPM model in the ERP/MES system with the attention mechanism (EMA-DCPM) will collect, extract and predict the operation time through artificial intelligence technology, and it can accurately predict the exact operation time of a batch of products that have not yet been produced. Through experiments, our algorithm can realize the production scheduling and get more than 200% better precision than former algorithms and realize dynamic optimization of complex projects.
The Effect of Non-surgical Periodontal Treatment on Patients With Combined Refractory Arterial Hypertension and Stage Iii, Grade B Periodontitis: A Preliminary Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Rodrigues João Victor S , Cláudio Marina Módolo , Franciscon João Paulo Soares , Rosa Rossana Abud Cabrera , Cirelli Thamiris , De Molon Rafael  Scaf Scaf , Figueredo Carlos Marcelo S. , Gouveia Garcia Valdir , Theodoro Leticia Helena
Published: June 2023

We sought to evaluate the effects of non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) on periodontal clinical parameters, systemic blood pressure (BP) and plasma levels of systemic inflammation markers in patients with combined refractory arterial hypertension (RAH) and stage III grade B periodontitis. Twenty-seven participants with RAH and periodontitis received NSPT. The analyzed clinical parameters were probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and plaque index (PI). An assessment was performed for systemic BP, complete blood count, coagulogram, creatinine measurement, C-reactive protein (CRP), glycated hemoglobin, cholesterol, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamate pyruvic transaminase, waist-hip ratio, and body mass index. In the follow-up period, twenty-two patients were evaluated at baseline and after 90 and 180 days. The data were submitted to statistical analysis (α=0.05%). As expected, the clinical results showed a significant improvement in the percentages of PI, BOP, PD and CAL, which were statistically significant at 90 and 180 days (p<0.0001). Importantly, NSPT significantly reduced the blood level of CRP (p<0.02). However, no significant reduction in BP parameters was noted in the evaluated follow-up periods. NSPT, despite the benefits in periodontal clinical parameters, reduced the plasma level of CRP but not the BP in patients with combined RAH and periodontitis.
Unveiling the Motivational Factors behind Generation Z's Conference Attendance for Sustaining Future Participation
Authors: Pavluković Vanja , Carmer Adam B. , Vujičić Miroslav D. , Cimbaljević Marija , Stankov Uglješa
Published: June 2023

This study addresses the motivations behind Generation Z's attendance at conferences and aims to contribute to a better understanding of their conference participation behavior. The study identified six latent factors that influence conference attendance motivation: Green and Digital Conference Experience, Educational and professional opportunities, Conference costs, Destination and conference stimuli, Stimulating factors, and Conference accessibility. These factors align with Generation Z's unique characteristics and preferences, such as their environmental consciousness, reliance on digital technologies, desire for continuous learning, career advancement, and experiences. The study also found that destination characteristics and educational and professional opportunities are significant motivators for Generation Z's conference attendance across different cultural contexts. Additionally, Generation Z's strong interest in sustainability and financial challenges highlights the need for eco-friendly practices and affordable registration fees to make conferences more appealing and accessible. The study further explores the impact of socio-demographic characteristics, revealing the gender and past conference attendance differences in motivation. Finally, the study discusses the implications for the conference industry and suggests areas for future research to enhance the understanding of conference attendance motivation among Generation Z.
Effects of Antiplatelet Drugs on Platelet-Dependent Coagulation Reactions
Authors: Muravlev Ivan A , Dobrovolsky Anatoly B , Antonova Olga A , Khaspekova Svetlana G , Alieva Amina K , Pevzner Dmitry V , Mazurov Alexey V
Published: June 2023

Activated platelets are involved in blood coagulation by exposing phosphatidylserine (PS), which serves as a substrate for assembling coagulation complexes. Platelets accelerate fibrin formation and thrombin generation, two final reactions of the coagulation cascade. We investigated the effects of antiplatelet drugs on platelet impact in these reactions and platelet ability to expose PS. Washed human platelets were incubated with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), ticagrelor, ASA in combination with ticagrelor, ruciromab (glycoprotein IIb-IIIa antagonist) or prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). Platelets were not activated or activated by collagen, sedimented in multiwell plates and plasma was added after supernatant removal. Fibrin formation (clotting) was monitored in a recalcification assay by light absorbance and thrombin generation in a fluorogenic test. PS exposure was assessed by annexin V staining using flow cytometry. Ticagrelor (alone and in combination with ASA), ruciromab and PGE1, but not ASA prolonged the lag phase and decreased the maximum rate of plasma clotting, and decreased the peak and maximum rate of thrombin generation. Inhibition was observed when platelets were not treated with exogenous agonists (activation by endogenous thrombin) and pretreated with collagen. Ticagrelor (alone and in combination with ASA), ruciromab and PGE1, but not ASA decreased PS exposure on washed platelets activated by thrombin and by thrombin + collagen. PS exposure on activated platelets in whole blood was lower in patients with acute coronary syndrome receiving ticagrelor + ASA in comparison with donors free of medications. These results indicate that antiplatelet drugs are able to suppress platelet coagulation activity not only in vitro but also after administration to patients.
Characterization of a C57BL/6J Fancg-KO Mouse Model Generated by CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Shah Ronak , Van den Berk Paul C.M. , Pritchard Colin E.J. , Song Ji-Ying , Kreft Maaike , Pilzecker Bas , Jacobs Heinz
Published: June 2023

Fanconi anemia (FA) develops due to a mutation in one of the FANC genes that are involved in repair of interstrand crosslinks (ICLs). FANCG, a member of the FA core complex, is essential for ICL repair. Previous FANCG-deficient mouse models were generated with drug-based selection cassettes in mixed mice backgrounds, leading to a disparity in interpretation of genotype-related phenotype. To exclude these confounders, we created a Fancg-KO (KO) mouse model using CRISPR/Cas9. The entire Fancg locus was targeted and maintained on the immunological well-characterized C57BL/6J background. Intercrossing of heterozygous mice resulted in sub-Mendelian numbers of homozygous mice, suggesting loss of FANCG can be embryonic lethal. KO mice displayed infertility, hypogonadism but no other developmental problems. Bone marrow analysis revealed a defect in various hematopoietic stem and progenitor subsets with a bias towards myelopoiesis. Cell lines derived from Fancg-KO mice were hypersensitive to crosslinking agents-cisplatin and Mitomycin C, and Fancg-KO mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) displayed increased γ-H2AX upon cisplatin treatment. Reconstitution of these MEFs with Fancg cDNA corrected for the ICL hypersensitivity. Collectively, this project provides a new, genetically and immunologically well-defined Fancg-KO mouse model for further in vivo and in vitro studies on FANCG and ICL repair.
Anti-leptospira Antibodies in Buffaloes in the Marajó Island
Authors: Barbosa José Diomedes , Martins Fernanda Monik Silva , Vieira Eliel Valentim , Silva Ruama Paixão de Lima , Bomjardim Henrique dos Anjos , Silva Marcos Xavier , Salvarani Felipe Masiero
Published: June 2023

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that has a cosmopolitan geographical distribution, reported in domestic and wild animals, which act as reservoirs and contribute to the spread of the microorganism in the environment. In Brazil, studies on the occurrence of leptospirosis in buffaloes in the Amazon biome are scarce. The objective of this study was to determine the occurrence of antibodies against Leptospira spp., including serovar Hardjo (Bolivia), isolated from cattle in Brazil and not yet tested in buffaloes. A total of 387 blood serum samples of animals from nine municipalities in the Marajó Island, state of Pará, northern Brazil, were obtained from a biological sample bank and analyzed using the serum agglutination microscopic test (SAM). Serology revealed 91.5% (387/354) of the animals tested positive for anti-Leptospira antibodies. Among the serovars tested, the serovar Hardjo (Bolivia) was the most prevalent, present in 79.3% of the reactive buffaloes.
El dilema de los votantes entre candidatos honestos y competentes en las elecciones de 2018 en México y Brasil
Authors: Sousa Oliva José
Published: June 2023

This article is dedicated to understanding and explaining the electoral dilemma “Dishonest, but competent” and “Honest, but incompetent” in the elections of legislators, governors and municipal presidents in 2018 in Mexico and Brazil. The research questions that guided the investigation are: Why are there voters in Mexico and Brazil who vote for “dishonest” candidates? And how do the voters of those countries decide their vote in the face of this dilemma? The theoretical approach of this work is Social Psychology through two analytical tools: the Funnel of Causality and the Tripartite Model of Attitudes. The methodology is mixed, quantitative and qualitative, using statistical models with data from the international surveys World Values Survey and Comparative Studies of Electoral Systems, as well as the application of Focus Groups in the distance modality. In this way, four categories of voter are proposed: moralist, moralist-moderate, pragmatic-moderate and pragmatic. The arguments of this work are: first, that regardless of cultural differences, there is an “affective voter” “non-rational” who makes decisions based on emotions and intuition, demonstrating that the affective components of attitudes are more relevant than the cognitive ones in electoral choice; second, that voting for “dishonest” candidates is determined under a greater influence of “short-term factors” such as candidate characteristics and short-term events rather than “long-term factors” such as party loyalties and ideology.
IN VITRO WOUND HEALING ACTIVITY OF SAPIUM INDICUM WILLD LEAF EXTRACTS
Authors: Azis Huwaida Abdul , Taher Muhammad , Susanti Deny , Zakaria Zainul Amiruddin
Published: June 2023

Background: Sapium indicum Willd (Euphorbiaceae) is traditionally used to accelerate wound healing process in Malay community.

Objective: To evaluate wound healing potential of aqueous (AESI) and ethanolic extract of S. indicum leaves (EESI) using cell migration model.

Methods: AESI and EESI were prepared using maceration techniques. The extracts were subjected to phytochemical screening, cytotoxicity (MTT assay) and scratch assay.

Results: AESI contained saponins and tannins while EESI contained triterpenes, tannins and proteins. Based on MTT assay, AESI and EESI exhibited IC50 = 16.3 and 70.9 µg/mL, respectively. In the scratch assay, EESI caused significant (P< 0.05) concentration-dependent migration on 3T3 L1 cells whereas AESI exerted concentration-independent effect.

Conclusion: The leaves of S. indicum exhibited wound healing potential and contained phytochemicals that may contribute to the activity. These findings would support potential use of S. indicum as wound healing plant.
HYPOGLYCAEMIC AND HAEMATINIC PROPERTIES OF ETHANOL LEAF EXTRACT OF ARTOCARPUS HETEROPHYLLUS IN ALLOXAN INDUCED DIABETIC RATS.
Authors: C. Okonkwo Christopher , Victor Agu Chidozie , U. Njoku Obioma , Uchenna Abonyi , Victor Apeh , G. Anaduaka Emeka , V Iloabuchi Kenechukwu , E. Odo Christian
Published: June 2023

Background: Anaemia is known to be associated with diabetes; moreover, with the increasing cases of diabetes there is need for the use of more affordable alternative herbal medicines for the treatment of diabetes and anaemia. The aim of this work was to evaluate the hypoglycaemic and haematinic properties of Artocarpus heteropyllus on diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods: Ethanol leaf extract of Artocarpus heteropyllus was screened for phytochemicals and its acute toxicity was tested on mice. Induction of diabetes was done at a dose of 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w) (with exception of the control group). The extract was administered to rats for a period of 7 days at 100, 300 and 500 mg/kg b.w, respectively, following induction. Blood samples of rats were tested for fasting blood sugar (FBS), packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), haemoglobin, neutrophil lymphocyte and eosinophil counts.

Results: The ethanol leaf extract of A. heterophyllus showed no mortality up to a dose of 5000 mg/kg b.w. Administration of the extract to diabetic rats resulted in a decrease in the FBS of diabetic rat, and significant increases (p< 0.05) in RBC, PCV, WBC and haemoglobin levels.

Conclusion: The ethanol leaf extract of A. heterophyllus increased the haematological indices of diabetic rats. Our findings support the use of this plant as an herbal alternative in the treatment of diabetes and anaemia associated diabetes.
ANTIBACTERIAL AND ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITIES OF THE EXTRACT AND FRACTIONS OF AERIAL PARTS OF HELIOTROPIUM BACCIFERUM
Authors: Ullah Riaz , Ahmad Sohail , Bibi Ihteram , AbdEl-SalaSalam Naser M. , Hussain Hidayat , Ishaq Muhammad Saqib , Adnan Muhammad , Tariq Akash , Ullah Riaz
Published: June 2023

Background: H. bacciferum belonging to the family Boraginaceae is an important medicinal plant. The current research was carried out to investigate the medicinal properties of this plant.

Methodology: The crude (methanol fraction) and n-hexane, ethyl acetate, butanol and aqueous fractions were subjected to antibacterial and antifungal activities by using standard methodology available in literature. Bacterial strains of Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas Aeroginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Erwinia carotovora, Klebsiella Pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus atrophaeus were used for antibacterial activity.

Results: All the fractions were active against different bacterial strains but n-hexane and ethyl acetate showed (Zone of inhibition ranged from 18-30 mm) highest activity. The fungal strains, Trichoderma longibrachiantum, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani and Candida albican were used for antifungal activity. Excellent inhibitory effect was observed against all fungal strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against various fungal strains was determined. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the investigated plant fractions ranged from 0.5-2.00 mg/ml.

Conclusion: The plant showed significant antibacterial and antifungal activities. All tested plant extracts exhibit activities against different fungal strains. The result against various microorganisms shows the therapeutic potential of the plant H. bacciferum
INVESTIGATION OF HYPOGYCEMIC AND HYPOLIPIDEMIC EFFECTS OF AN AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF LUPINUS ALBUS LEGUME SEED IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED TYPE I DIABETIC RATS.
Authors: Sewani-Rusike Constance Rufaro , Jumbam Denis N. , Chinhoyi Lionel R. , Nkeh-Chungag Benedicta N.
Published: June 2023

Background: Lupinus albus (LA) seed is a legume food used traditionally for the treatment of diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an aqueous extract of LA on lipid and glucose levels in normal and STZ induced Type 1 diabetic rats.

Methods: Aqueous extract of LA was prepared and used for animal treatments. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60mg/kg body weight). Effects of LA on oral glucose tolerance in normal and diabetic rats were investigated by giving a single dose of distilled water (controls), 200 or 400mg/kg LA extract, metformin 300mg/kg or glibenclamide 500µg/kg after 12 hours of fasting (time 0 glucose). After 15 minutes, a glucose load (3g/kg) was given. Glucose levels were measured at 30, 60, and 120 minutes after glucose loading. To investigate long term effects, animals were given similar treatments daily for 4 weeks. At the end of the study, serum glucose, insulin, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL-C), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL-C) and high density lipoprotein (HDL-C) cholesterol levels were measured or calculated.

Results: LA demonstrated significant (P
ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITIES OF DIFFERENT PLANTS EXTRACTS AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS ISOLATED FROM SOCCER PLAYER’S SHOES AND KNOWLEDGE AND APPLICATIONS ABOUT FOOT HYGIENE OF THE SOCCER PLAYERS
Authors: Okmen Ahmet Sadan
Published: June 2023

Background: The microorganisms most commonly attacks the feet. Bacteria have an easier entry into the athlete’s epidermis. Staphylococcus aureus, commonly found on the skin or in the nose. The purpose of the study is to search the lack of knowledge about the antibacterial and antioxidant effects of different plants extracts and to search the knowledge about hygiene and hygiene of sports equipment of soccer players.

Materials and Methods: The bacteria were isolated from soccer player’s shoes (n=28) from Balıkesir Spor soccer team after the competition. Additionally, ten plants were collected from Mugla, Hatay, and Hakkari in Turkey. In antibacterial activity studies, the plant materials were tested by disc diffusion assay. Furthermore, the different plants extracts were studied by ABTS decolorization assay.

Results: The highest antibacterial activity was shown on S. aureus- BFT2 (22 mm) for Hypericum perforatum L. subsp. veranese (Schrant) H. Lindb. The different extracts possessed antibacterial activity, and showed MIC effect at 812.5 µg/mL. The antioxidant activities by ABTS assay were in the order of Arbutus andrachne (flower) > Arbutus andrachne (leaf) > Anthemis sp. (flower) > Crepis sancta L. (leaf) > Allium sphaerocephalon (root) > Plantango major (leaf) > Lavandula steochas (flower) > Anthemis sp. (flower) > Urtica dioica (leaf) > Lavandula steochas (leaf) > Anthemis sp. (leaf) > Hypericum perforatum L. subsp. veranese (Schrant) H. Lindb (flower) > Anthemis chia L. (leaf).

Conclusion: Different plant extracts have antimicrobial, antioxidant and potential.
INTERVENTION EFFECT AND DOSE-DEPENDENT RESPONSE OF TANREQING INJECTION ON AIRWAY MUCUS HYPERSECRETION IN LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE-INDUCED RATS
Authors: Dong Shou-jin , Zhong Yun-qing , Lu Wen-ting , Yang Kun , Liu Mao-juan , Xiong Xiao-ling , Mao Bing
Published: June 2023

Background: Tanreqing injection, a Chinese herbal formulation comprising Radix Scutellariae, Fructus Forsythiae, Flos Lonicerae, Antelope horn, and Bear bile powder, has been used to treat bronchitis and pneumonia for many years in China. However, its anti-mucus-hypersecretion mechanism has yet not been fully interpreted. We aim to assess the effect and dose-response relationships of Tanreqing injection on lipopolysacchaide (LPS) induced airway mucus hypersecretion in rats.

Material and methods: Forty-eight male rats were randomly divided into four groups (12 per group). A rat model of airway mucus hypersecretion was generated with LPS. Tanreqing injection was given by intratracheal instillation, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from the right lung was collected. BALF total protein was determined by bicinchoninic acid disodium assay (BCA). Muc5ac was measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry. The expression of muc5ac mRNA was detected by real-time polyermase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The middle lobe of the right lung was stained with alcian blue-periodic acid sthiff (AB-PAS) and positive staining relative shading area examined.

Results: LPS caused airway mucus hypersecretion, The LPS-induced airway mucus hypersecretion increased beginning at 24 hr, and peaked at 96 hr. Tanreqing injection could inhibit airway mucus hypersecretion, and suppress the expression of muc5ac mRNA.

Conclusion: Tanreqing injection inhibits airway mucus hypersecretion in a certain dose-dependent trend.
ASTRAGALOSIDE III FROM ASTRAGALUS MEMBRANACEUS ANTAGONIZES BREAST CANCER GROWTH
Authors: Wang Shouman , Tang Lili , Chen Feiyu
Published: June 2023

Background: Astragaloside III has been used to treat different cancers; however their effect on breast cancer remains unknown.

Materials and methods: The present study examined the effects of Astragaloside III from Astragalus membranaceus on breast cancer cell lines in vitro as well as xenograft in vivo.

Results: The results showed that the Astragaloside III could effectively reduce cancer cell survival in vitro and inhibit the tumor growth in vivo. The potential mechanism is the induction of cell apoptosis signaling pathways.

Conclusion: We believe that Astragaloside III provides a new therapeutic tool to treat breast cancer.
ANTIFUNGAL AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECTS OF COPTIDIS RHIZOMA EXTRACT AGAINST CANDIDA ALBICANS
Authors: Yang Yi , Ning Yumei , Zhu Xiuzhi , Li Ruilan , Ye Huijun , Zhao Lei , Jin Lihua , Zhou Xiaomei
Published: June 2023

Background: Rhizoma Coptidis has been used as antibiotics in traditional Chinese medicine practice for many years. Here, we examined the effect

of Rhizoma Coptidis extract on the growth of C. albicans.

Materials and Methods: The antifungal effects of Coptidis Rhizoma extract was examined by time-kill assay, transmission electron microscope

(TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations. The anti-inflammatory effect of the Rhizoma Coptidis extract was examined in mouse

model of Candida vaginitis.

Results: We found that the MIC of Coptidis Rhizoma extract was 3.125 mg/mL. The time-kill assay suggested that Rhizoma Coptidis extract could

inhibit the growth of C. albicans. The SEM and TEM observations showed notable changes of cell wall and cytoplasmic content of the C. albicans

and complete collapse of yeast cell exposed to Rhizoma Coptidis extract. Our in vivo antifungal activity studies in mouse model of Candidal vaginitis

showed the reduction of inflammatory reaction was found after Rhizoma Coptidis extract treatment. In addition, the COX-2 expression was decreased

in mice treated with Coptidis Rhizoma extract as compared with the control mice.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that Coptidis Rhizoma extract is a promising candidate in candidal vaginitis treatment in the future.
VALIDATION OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL USE AS ANTI-INFLAMMATORY OF A DECOCTION FROM ANNONA MURICATA LEAVES
Authors: Quilez A. M. , La Paz S. Montserrat-de , Puerta R. De la , FernÃ¡ndez-Arche M. A. , GarcÃ­a-GimÃ©nez M. D.
Published: June 2023

Background: Through this work we evaluated the potential of the aqueous extract of Annona muricata L. leaves (AMAEL) to treat inflammatory conditions. The use of decoction or infusion of this important medicinal resource is still not scientifically validated. Methods: Different doses of AMAEL were assayed in carrageenan-induced inflammation and tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA)-induced edema in mice, myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) in inflamed tissue, MPO released by A-23187-stimulated rat neutrophils and nitric oxide released by murine macrophages. Acute oral toxicity and cell viability of murine macrophages were also tested.

Results: A single dose of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg of AMAEL did not show any symptoms associated with toxicity in vivo and the viability of murine macrophages was of 100% at the assayed doses. AMAEL at 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg exerted a significant edema reduction in the carrageenan inflammation model (26.82±0.02%, p
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIALS OF EXTRACTS OF TEN MEDICINAL PLANTS USED FOR THE TREATMENT OF DIABETES MELLITUS IN SRI LANKA
Authors: Attanayake Anoja Priyadarshani , Jayatilaka Kamani Ayoma Perera Wijewardana , Pathirana Chitra , Mudduwa Lakmini Kumari Boralugoda
Published: June 2023

Background: Over the last decade, extensive research work has focused on the potential health benefits of antioxidants while many medicinal plant extracts have been evaluated for their antioxidant profile. Medicinal plants selected for this study are widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in Sri Lanka some of which are recommended as dietary supplements to the existing therapies. The present study aimed at determining the total polyphenol contents and total antioxidant activities of aqueous extracts of 10 selected Sri Lankan medicinal plants by three in vitro methods;

Materials and Methods: DPPH(2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), FRAP (ferric reducing power) and NO (nitric oxide) assays. The aqueous plant extracts were tested at the concentration of 0.05 g/mL. The total polyphenol content was determined according to the Folin-Ciocalteu method while the total antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH, FRAP and NO assays with L-ascorbic acid as reference compound.

Results: The total polyphenol content of the plant extracts varied from 0.41 to 13.00 mg GAE (gallic acid equivalents) per gram dry weight. The antioxidant activities ranged in IC50 of 36.89-101.27 µg/mL, IC50 of 139.56-419.93 µg/mL, 0.12-8.98 µM for DPPH, NO, FRAP assays, respectively. A significant positive correlation was observed between total polyphenol content and antioxidant activities (P< 0.05).

Conclusion: Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of polyphenolic compounds, alkaloids and flavonoids in the plant materials which also possessed in vitro antioxidant potentials. Polyphenolic compounds contribute significantly to the total antioxidant capacities of medicinal plant extracts.
LAMIUM ALBUM OR URTICA DIOICA? WHICH IS MORE EFFECTIVE IN DECREASING SERUM GLUCOSE, LIPID AND HEPATIC ENZYMES IN STREPTOZOTOCIN INDUCED DIABETIC RATS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: Mehran Mohammad Mohseni , Norasfard Mohammad R. , Abedinazade Mahmood , Khanaki Korosh
Published: June 2023

Objectives: Diabetes mellitus, the most common endocrine disorder, is defined by hyperglycaemia. Urtica dioica or stinging nettle is known to

have antidiabetic effects. Lamium album or non stinging nettle is shown to have some beneficial effects such as antioxidant, and cytoprotective

properties. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of hydroalchoholic extract of L. album and U. dioica on serum glucose, lipids

and hepatic enzymes level in sterptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Methods: Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into four groups; normal control, diabetic control, diabetic treated with U. dioica

(100 mg/kg/daily), diabetic treated with L. album (100 mg/kg/daily) for 28 days. Serum glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), alanin

trasaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate transaminase (AST) were measured.

Results: U. dioica and L. album extracts caused significant decrease (p
PROKINETIC AND LAXATIVE EFFECTS OF XIAO'ER QIXINGCHA, A HOUSEHOLD PEDIATRIC HERBAL FORMULA
Authors: Wang Xiu-Fen , Huang Xiao-Dan , Zhao Xiao-Ning , Xie Jian-Hui , Su Ji-Yan , Mo Zhi-Zhun , Su Zi-Ren , Zhang Xiao-Jun , Chen Wei-ping
Published: June 2023

Background: Xiao'er Qixingcha, a household Chinese Medicinal formula, has been extensively applied in pediatric clinic for dyspepsia and constipation for hundreds of years. The present study firstly inspected whether the extract of Xiao'er Qixingcha (EXQ) has in vivo and in vitro prokinetic and laxative effects, and evaluated its acute toxicity.

Materials and methods: In the in vivo study, small intestinal transit rates and fecal output characters (number and fecal weight) were measured on normal and two models of constipated mice (induced by diphenoxylate and by water-fasting respectively). In the in vivo study, the contraction rates of ileum smooth muscle were examined with EXQ treatment. Moreover, in acute toxicity study, EXQ was administered orally for 14 days to juvenile SD rats, and clinical signs, viscera lesion and body weight were monitored daily.

Results: EXQ at all doses significantly increased the small intestinal transit rates, and ameliorated the fecal output characters of normal mice. In diphenoxylate-induced constipated mice, EXQ dose-dependently improved the small intestinal transit rates and fecal output. In water-fasting-induced constipated mice, EXQ dose-dependently improved the small intestinal transit rates, and significantly ameliorated the fecal output characters at 2.92 and 6.75 g/kg. Furthermore, in the in vitro study, EXQ dose-dependently raised the contraction rates of the isolated rabbit ileum smooth muscle. Finally, the acute toxicity study indicated that no toxicological effect was observed in terms of clinical signs, viscera lesion or change of body weight.

Conclusions: Taken together, EXQ exhibited prominent prokinetic and laxative activities, promising it as a safe and effective alternative pharmaceutical therapy for constipation.
HOW DOES TRADITIONAL HOME-GARDENS SUPPORT ETHNOMEDICINAL VALUES IN KUMAUN HIMALAYAN BHABHAR BELT, INDIA?
Authors: Padalia Kirtika , Bargali Kiran , Bargali Surendra Singh
Published: June 2023

Background: Medicine is one of the four basic needs of human being fulfilled by the plant up to a large extent. Herbal remedies have been an

integrated part of healing and are considered to be the oldest form of healthcare known to mankind on this earth.

Materials and methods: An ethno botanical survey has been conducted using semi structured interview schedule with the villagers, in agro forestry

system to identify the traditionally used plants.

Results: A total of 60 medicinal plants belonging to the 33 families were found to be used for the treatment of diseases. Out of 33 families,

Cucurbitaceae contributed maximum 06 genera followed by Poaceae, Brassicaceae, Solanaceae and Apiaceae. The documented plants were listed as

32 herbs, 06 shrubs, 15 trees and 07climbers. Different parts of investigated plants such as leaves (34%), fruits (19%), bark (only 2%) etc. were

useful to cure the 10 different categories of ailments. In this study, about 70% of the medicines were prepared by fresh plant parts. The mode of

application of herbal medicines was oral (53.33%), dermal (10%) and rest (36.66%) taken both by oral and dermal.

Conclusions: Indigenous people still believe in traditional system of medicine and prefer it in search of primary health care. Such plants may be used

in the formulation of new drugs. The agroforestry system supports the ethno-botanical values in a very extensive way. It is one of the best known

traditional practices to cure and prevent the diseases from the very beginning of civilization, other than to full fill the daily requirement of food,

fodder and timber production. The remedies obtained from the agroforestry and home gardens system are comparatively cheaper, pure, have no side

effects and easily available. Therefore, it deals with those communities whom have the limited access to mainstream medicine. Agroforestry provides

the alternative source of remedies and growing space for medicinal plant. Hence, there is a great a need to cultivate and conserve such plants and at

the same time, there is an immediate need of indigenous practices, knowledge of such plant resources, and documentation.
THE ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITIES OF SOME PLANT DERIVED TRITERPENES
Authors: Penduka D. , Gasa N.P , Hlongwane M.S , Mosa R.A , Osunsanmi F.O. , A.R. Opoku
Published: June 2023

Background: The increase in the prevalence of multi-drug resistant bacteria has necessitated the search for new antimicrobials from alternative

sources such as traditional medicinal plants.

Materials and Methods: The agar well diffusion method was employed to determine the susceptibilities of four plant derived triterpenes namely,

3β-hydroxylanosta-9, 24-dien-21-oic acid (RA5), and methyl-3β-hydroxylanosta-9, 24-dien-21oate (RA3), a mixture of oleanolic acid and betulinic

acid (SF1) and a mixture of 3β-acetonyloleanolic acid and 3β-acetonylbetulinic acid (SF2), at a concentration of 10 mg/ml against seven Escherichia

coli, one Bacillus cereus, five Enterococcus and nine Vibrio bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal

concentration (MBC) were determined through the micro-broth dilution assay. The checkerboard method was used to determine the antibiotictriterpene

interactions while the cytosolic lactate dehydrogenase test was used to determine the membrane damaging potentials of the triterpenes in

comparison to 3% Triton X-100.

Results: The triterpenes RA3, RA5, SF1 and SF2 had activities against 86.4%, 54.6%, 22.7% and 9.09% of the test bacteria respectively. SF1 had

the lowest MIC values ranging 0.625-10 mg/ml with lower MIC values being noted against Gram negative bacteria in comparison to Gram positive

bacteria; this trend was also noted among the activities of RA3 and RA5 although they had higher MIC value ranges of 1.25-10 mg/ml and 5- 10

mg/ml respectively. MBC studies proved the triterpenes to be mostly bacteriostatic. The interaction studies with ciprofloxacin were mainly ranging

between indifference and antagonism. RA3 alone showed minimal membrane damaging potential with the levels of cytosolic lactate dehydrogenase

released ranging from 1-36% in comparison to 3%Triton X-100 against E.coli (DSM-8695) and V. vulnificus (AL 042).

Conclusion: The results hereby show the potential that the test triterpenes have as antibacterial agents, especially against the Gram negative bacteria

namely E. coli and Vibrio bacteria
Development tendencies and latest results of the environmental criminal law of the European Union
Authors: Udvarhelyi Bence
Published: June 2023

This study aims to outline the development trends and latest results of the European Union Environmental Criminal Law. The EU legislator issued several criminal laws to criminalize and sanction behaviors that harm or endanger the environment and nature. Based on the strengthened criminal law competencies of the Treaty of Lisbon, the European Commission developed a directive proposal in 2021 to significantly broaden the range of punishable conduct and strengthen the range of applicable sanctions. This is expected to impose legislative duties on the Hungarian legislator.
The Role and Activity of the Deputy Commissioner for Fundamental Rights Ombudsman for Future Generations in Shaping Environmental Protection in Hungary
Authors: Krajnyák Enikő
Published: June 2023

The study analyzes the position and the work of the Hungarian Ombudsman for Future Generations in light of the global development of the institutional protection of future generations. The Hungarian model has an outstanding role both at the domestic and international levels: not only does it influence environmental protection in the country but it could also serve as a role model for similar institutions to be established in other countries in the future. The paper gives an overview of the institutional protection of future generations in international law and introduces the historical development and the legislative framework for the establishment of the institution in Hungary, and lastly, briefly presents the different rights and duties of the Ombudsman with a particular focus on recent achievements and initiatives.
Concussion Education for Athletes
Authors: Abbott Alexandra , Ramos Tolulope , Smith Wyatt A.R , Ierulli Victoria K. , Mulcahey Mary K.
Published: June 2023

» Educational programs on concussion have been demonstrated to improve knowledge for athletes, families, athletic trainers, and coaches about concussion, with the goal of reducing concussion incidence, duration, severity, and complications.

» Despite the widespread availability and often mandatory concussion education provided to high school and collegiate athletes, there has not been an adequate change in knowledge, attitudes, and self-reporting behavior in this population.

» Recently published studies suggest improving concussion education by emphasizing athletes' symptom reporting behavior, to contrast with current emphasis on knowledge-based outcomes.

» Future educational programs about concussions for athletes, families, athletic trainers, and coaches should aim to emphasize cultural and behavioral changes that demonstrate outcome changes rather than solely evaluating knowledge improvements to determine effective programming.
Evaluation of a permeable dam as an erosion control structure on Coca River, Ecuador
Authors: Ramos-Santiago Efrain , Pagan-Albelo Yamiretsy , Sharp Jeremy , Blades Curtis , Pigg Kevin
Published: June 2023

The effort performed here describes the process to evaluate the scour-protection performance of the proposed permeable dam. The US Engineer Research and Development Center, Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory, built a 1:50 Froude scaled movable bed section model of the permeable dam structure and tested in a specialized flume that simulates regressive erosion propagation. Profiles were collected at various times to track the progression of the scour. Tests evaluated variations of the proposed structure, which included tetrapods, riprap, bridge piers, and longitudinal piles. For the various proposed alternatives, a total of six tests were conducted. The collected profiles show the ability or inability of each alternative and its associated performance. From this analysis, untethered tetrapods could not effectively arrest the local scour around the structure. However, large rock along with invert control stopped the regressive erosion and held the upstream grade.
Experimental Study of the Process of Interaction of Hydrogen with Igneous Melts in the Conditions of the Earth’s Crust
Authors: Persikov E.S. , Bukhtiyarov P.G. , Aranovich L.Ya. , Shaposhnikova O.Yu. , Nekrasov A.N.
Published: June 2023

—We report new experimental data on the interaction of igneous melts with hydrogen at temperatures of 1100–1250 °C and hydrogen pressures of 1–100 MPa in strongly reducing conditions: fO2=10−12−10−14. The experiments were conducted using an original high-gas-pressure unit equipped with a unique device that provides long-term experiments at high temperatures and pressures of hydrogen. The experiments used natural samples of igneous rocks: the magnesian basalt of the Northern Breakthrough of the Tolbachik Volcano (Kamchatka) and the andesite of the Avacha Volcano (Kamchatka). On the basis of the experiments, the following features of the process of interaction of hydrogen with igneous melts have been established: (1) Despite the high reduction potential of the H2–igneous melt system, the reactions of hydrogen oxidation and complete reduction of oxides of metals of variable valence in the melt do not go to the end. The cessation of redox reactions in basaltic and andesitic melts is due to the formation of H2O in the melt, which buffers the reduction potential of hydrogen; (2) The initially homogeneous igneous melt becomes heterogeneous: The formed H2O dissolves in the melt and in the fluid phase (at first pure hydrogen), and melts of variable, more acidic composition and small metallic isolations of the liquation structure are formed; (3) The complex process of metal–silicate liquation in magmatic melts when they interact with hydrogen can be carried out at real magma temperatures in nature (≤1200 °C), significantly lower than the corresponding melting points of iron and its alloys with nickel and cobalt; (4) The structure and dimensions of the experimentally established metal isolations are consistent with natural data on the finds of small quantities of native metals, primarily iron and its alloys with nickel and cobalt, in igneous rocks of different compositions and genesis.
Students’ career capital resource needs for employability in the technology-driven work world
Authors: Coetzee Melinde
Published: June 2023

The present study assessed the world of work awareness of a random sample of (N = 486) higher education undergraduate students from an emerging country. In addition, the study explored these students’ needs for information they need from their studies about the technology-driven world of work. The needs were evaluated in terms specific career capital resources that should be addressed in the higher education curriculum to foster the employability of graduates in a rapid evolving digital-era workplace. A mixed methods concurrent triangulation design was employed to analyse quantitative (numeric descriptive statistics and correlations) and qualitative (text) data from the same sample. The quantitative descriptive findings suggested an open-mindedness toward new technology, being responsive to changing work conditions and a need for continuous upskilling opportunities. The participants exhibited sound awareness of the impact of technology on their future employability and careers. Predominantly, the qualitative findings indicated a strong need for 'knowing how' career capital resource development in the form of career planning and job search guidance and gaining deeper knowledge and understanding of the impact of technology on the job market, job and occupation opportunities and employability requirements. Participants expressed a need to understand the relevance of the qualification curriculum and content to the digital-era world of work and shifting employer expectations. The findings also revealed a need for 'knowing what', 'knowing why' and 'knowing whom' career capital resource development for employability as part of university studies. Recommendations are made for incurriculating career and employability development in university courses.
Single-RNA-level analysis of full-length HIV-1 RNAs reveals functional redundancy of m6As
Authors: Baek Alice , Lee Ga-Eun , Golconda Sarah , Rayhan Asif , Manganaris Anastasios , Chen Shuliang , Tirumuru Nagaraja , Yu Hannah , Kim Shihyoung , Kimmel Christopher , Zablocki Olivier , Sullivan Matthew , Addepalli Balasubrahmanyam , Wu Li , Kim Sanggu
Published: June 2023

HIV-1 exploits every aspect of RNA, a versatile macromolecule that undergoes various post-transcriptional modifications, to maximize its replication. Although the importance of chemical modifications on RNA has been recognized, their evolutionary benefits and precise roles in HIV-1 replication remain unclear. Most studies have provided only population-averaged values of modifications for fragmented RNAs at low resolution and have relied on indirect analyses of the phenotypic effects of perturbing host effectors, neglecting site-specificity and intra-RNA heterogeneity1–9. Here, we developed a new RNA-library-preparation method for full-length direct RNA sequencing and analyzed HIV-1-specific modifications at the single-RNA level. Our analysis revealed that the HIV-1 modification landscape is unexpectedly simple, showing three predominant N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications near the 3' end. More densely installed in viral mRNAs than in genomic RNAs, these m6As play a crucial role in maintaining normal levels of RNA splicing and translation. We also discovered that HIV-1 generates diverse RNA subspecies with distinct ensembles of the m6As and that these m6As regulate splicing independently of each other. Our single-RNA-level study demonstrates that HIV-1 tolerates functionally redundant m6As to provide stability and resilience to viral replication while minimizing the risk of unpredictable mutagenesis – a novel RNA-level strategy similar to bet-hedging in evolutionary biology.