bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Lactation Period and Parity Order on Aflatoxin M1 in Milk from Smallholder Farms in Enrekang, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Sadam Suliman Muhamed Yousof , Malaka Ratmawati , Baco Sudirman , Mustabi Jamila , Waqiah Syarifah Nurul
Published: December 2023

Aflatoxins (AFs) are naturally toxic compounds produced by a specific type of fungi, which subsequently contaminate foods and animal feeds, potentially carcinogenic to humans. This study aimed to assess the effect of lactation period and parity order on Aflatoxin AFM1 and the association between them through smallholder dairy farms in addition to aflatoxin M1 in local cheese “DANGKE” and Aflatoxin B1 in animal feed samples from Enrekang, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. A total of 39 raw cow milk samples and 12 and 16 roughage and concentrated feed samples were randomly obtained from smallholder dairy farms in Enrekang and they were examined in terms of AFM1 and AFB1 using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. The prevalence of Aflatoxin B1 in roughage animal feed was 8.33%, with a concentration range of 7.32µ/kg above the limit of detection. The concentrated feed has a different amount of Aflatoxin B1 according to the type of feed used in the farm ranging from 6.04 to 58.74µ/kg with a mean of 27.8µ/kg and representing 37.5% for all concentrated feed samples. The prevalence of Aflatoxin M1 in milk revealed that 69.2% of samples were positive ranging from 3.08±4.35 to 7.95±0.24µ/kg with a mean 5.05±3.50µ/kg above a limit of detection. All samples from cheese showed negative results for AFM1. However, 3(50%) of positive concentrated feed samples exceeded the European Union (EU) regulation of 20µ/kg for dairy animal feed, the roughage feed samples and all of the concentrated feed samples were under Indonesian National Standard (SNI) of 200µ/kg, these three samples namely commercial concentrate and rice bran they include about 57.18, 30.98 and 58.74µ/kg, respectively. Therefore, all raw milk-positive samples were above the limits of the Indonesian national standard of 0.5µ/kg, and above EU and USA limits of 0.05 and 0.50 µg/kg, respectively for raw cow milk. The results showed that no relation between the amount of aflatoxin M1 and lactation period and parity order (P˃0.05). In contrast, the interaction of lactation period and parity order significantly (P<0.05) affected aflatoxin M1 in raw cow milk. Further research is needed to explore the association between the aflatoxin lactation period and parity order. The study revealed a high prevalence of aflatoxin contamination in animal feeds and raw cow milk, suggesting a potential health risk to consumers. Therefore, it is vital to increase awareness and knowledge on Aflatoxin, proper handling, storage, and monitoring of feeds among the stakeholders in the dairy value chain.
Advancements in Polyol Synthesis: Expanding Chemical Horizons and Néel Temperature Tuning of CoO Nanoparticles
Authors: Baričić Miran , Nuñez Jorge M. , Aguirre Myriam H. , Hrabovsky David , Seydou Mahamadou , Meneghini Carlo , Peddis Davide , Ammar Souad
Published: December 2023

The polyol synthesis of CoO nanoparticles (NPs) is typically conducted in diethylene glycol (DEG) by dissolving and heating tetrahydrate cobalt acetate and water. This process yields aggregates of approximately 100 nm made of partially aligned primary crystals. However, the synthesis requires careful temperature regulation to allow the nucleation of CoO and at the same time avoid its reduction due to DEG’s activity, impeding any freedom in tuning the synthesis conditions to obtain particles with different morpho-structural properties, which have a direct influence on chemical and physical properties. In this context, the growth of CoO NPs in polyol was studied focusing on the effect of the polyol chain length, the water/cations ratio, and the synthesis temperature, finding that longer polyol chains allow much higher temperatures to be reached. By this way, the aggregate size (20–150 nm), shape (octahedral spherical) and the crystalline length (8–35 nm) were successfully tuned. Our primary focus revolved around investigating the magnetic properties inherent in the synthesized products. Notably, a compelling correlation was observed between the crystallite size of the nanoparticles and their Néel temperature (TN) of CoO—an observation of substantial applicative significance across the spectrum of magnetic applications for this material. In the course of our investigation, two pivotal findings emerged. First, we the identified small quantities of a layered hydroxide ferromagnetic intermediate acting as an interference in our measurements, exhibiting magnetic properties congruent with features observed in other publications on CoO synthesized in systems compatible with the intermediate formation; second, we observed for the first time a branching of the curve in the TN vs crystal size, providing compelling evidence for a novel degree of freedom instrumental in fine-tuning the magnetic properties of these nanoparticles. These two findings shed light on the understanding of CoO and antiferromagnetic materials fundamental properties. Furthermore, good synthetic conditions were found to avoid the formation of ferromagnetic layered hydroxide salt (LHS) impurities, resolving several ambiguities already present in literature about CoO low-temperature magnetic behavior. The Néel temperature (TN) was also recognized in the zero-field cooled (ZFC) thermal variation of the magnetization of the resulting pure CoO particles, and a regular relation with their crystallite size was found, allowing us to regulate TN over ~ 80 K. Samples with spheroidal morphologies were consistently observed to have lower TN respect to the octahedral ones, providing a possible new degree of freedom with which the particles’ magnetic properties can be tuned.
Graphene oxide in an active fault
Authors: Shimada Tomoya , Nakamura Norihiro , Muto Jun , Nagahama Hiroyuki
Published: December 2023

We report the first-ever discovery of graphene oxide in a creeping active fault (the Mozumi–Sukenobe Fault in the Atotsugawa fault system, Japan) using detailed Raman spectroscopic analysis. The presence of graphene oxide, which is characterised by a friction coefficient that is an order of magnitude lower than graphite, may explain the creeping nature of the fault.
Immunity to SARS-CoV-2 after vaccination and previous infection: COVID - 19 immunity study, Namibia
Authors: Hedimbi Hendrick , Nepolo Emmanuel , Worwui Archibald , Nendongo Ashishe , Haidula Liopa , Nakambale Hilma N.
Published: December 2023

Background: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID - 19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus has had a devastating global impact, leading to millions of deaths. The rollout of COVID - 19 vaccines has been critical in controlling the pandemic. In Namibia, the COVID - 19 vaccine rollout began in March 2021, with a national target of vaccinating at least 60% of the population. This study aimed to evaluate the immune response to COVID - 19 infection and vaccination with either Sinopharm, Covishield, Pfizer and Jansen vaccines. The study population consisted of participants residing in Oranjemund, Namibia.
Methods and Results: We enrolled 260 participants, among which 80.4% had received COVID - 19 vaccination. Serum samples were collected between December 15, 2021, and June 15, 2022. Levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike (anti-S) and anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (anti-N) antibodies in vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals were measured using qualitative and quantitative chemiluminescence immunoassays. The results showed that 92.5%(n=112) participants with laboratory-confirmed COVID - 19 infection had detectable anti-N antibodies, indicating immunity due to prior infection. 54.6% (n=76) of individuals without a history of infection also had reactive anti-N antibodies, suggesting immunity. All vaccinated participants showed the production of anti-S antibodies. 99.5% (n=187) of individuals with anti-N antibodies had detectable anti-S antibodies. Notably, 7.5% (n=9) of participants with a history of COVID - 19 infection did not have detectable anti-N antibodies. We found a strong correlation r2 = 0.69 (p-value = 3.755e-11) between COVID - 19 diagnosis and testing positive (reactive) for Anti-N antibodies.
Conclusions: We found a high level of detectable anti-N antibodies in patients who had a history of COVID - 19 infection and anti-S antibodies in those who were vaccinated. The study provides insights into the immune response to COVID - 19 infection and vaccination in Namibia, contributing to the understanding of vaccine effectiveness and development of immunity.
Higher adiposity predicts greater intra-individual inconsistencies in postprandial glycemic measurements – An analysis of three randomized controlled trials
Authors: Henry Jeyakumar , Toh Darel Wee Kiat , Ponnalagu Shalini , Camps Stefan , Lim Joseph , Koh Melvin Xu Nian
Published: December 2023

Background/Objectives: Acute glycemic responses offer important insights into glucose homeostasis although the repeatability of these measurements particularly in an Asian context remains unclear. This research aimed to critically investigate the consistencies of the postprandial glycemic profile within and between individuals.
Subjects/Methods: This was a secondary analysis of three randomized controlled trials which fed subjects with glucose (and other carbohydrate-rich foods), and measured postprandial blood glucose at regular intervals. Rank-order consistency in the glycemic profile between acute glucose treatments was evaluated and compared against a range of demographic, anthropometric and cardio-metabolic health related indicators to delineate potential confounding effects. Correlations between the incremental area under curve at 120 min (iAUC120 min) for glucose and the carbohydrate-rich foods were further explored.
Results: Rank-order consistency was identified to be moderate, with intra-individual inconsistencies marginally lower than inter-individual inconsistencies. Notably, greater inconsistencies within individuals were directly correlated with BMI and fat-mass index (P < 0.01) albeit non-significant for age, ethnicity and other cardio-metabolic health-related risk indicators. Across the trials, there were positive monotonic correlations between the iAUC120 min for glucose and simple sugars (sucrose, isomaltulose), as well as different varieties of rice (jasmine white, Bapatla brown, Bapatla white; p < 0.05). However, there was a lack of associations with pastas (semolina and wholegrain penne, spaghetti) and mee pok noodles.
Conclusion: There are inherent inconsistencies in postprandial glycemic measurements within indiviudals, particularly among those with higher adiposity. These confounders need to be kept in mind for appropriate and meaningful interpretations of glycemia.
Transcriptomic characterization of the histopathological growth patterns in breast cancer liver metastases
Authors: Leduc Sophia , Nguyen Ha-Linh , Richard François , Zels Gitte , Mahdami Amena , Schepper Maxim , Maetens Marion , Pabba Anirudh , Jaekers Joris , Latacz Emily , Bohlok Ali , Vanderheyden Evy , Brussel Thomas , Boeckx Bram , Schepers Rogier , Lambrechts Diether , Dirix Luc , Larsimont Denis , Vankerckhove Sophie , Lucidi Valerio , Topal Baki , Bachir Imane , Donckier Vincent , Floris Giuseppe , Vermeulen Peter , Desmedt Christine
Published: December 2023

Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) remains incurable and liver metastases (LM) are observed in approximately 50% of all patients with mBC. In some cases, surgical resection of breast cancer liver metastases (BCLM) could be associated with prolonged survival. However, there are currently no validated marker to identify these patients. The interactions between the metastatic cancer cells and the liver microenvironment result in two main histopathological growth patterns (HGP): replacement (r-HGP), characterized by a direct contact between the cancer cells and the hepatocytes, and desmoplastic (d-HGP), in which a fibrous rim surrounds the tumor cells. In patients who underwent resection of BCLM, the r-HGP is associated with a worse postoperative prognosis than the d-HGP. Here, we aim at unraveling the phenotypic differences between these HGP within ten patients presenting both HGP within the same metastasis. The transcriptomic analyses reveal up-regulation of genes involved in cell cycle, DNA repair, vessel co-option and cell motility in r-HGP and angiogenesis, wound healing, and several immune processes in d-HGP LM. Understanding the biology of the LM could open up avenues to refine treatment of BC patients with LM.
A Comparison of Brown Fat Tissue Related Hormone Levels in Metabolically Healthy and Unhealthy Individuals with Obesity
Authors: Mutlu Hacer Hicran , Ada Saniye Koç , Uzunlulu Mehmet , Mutlu Hasan Hüseyin , Sargın Mehmet , Oğuz Aytekin
Published: December 2023

Purpose
One of the key functions of brown adipose tissue is its positive impact on metabolism. This study aimed to examine the potential involvement of brown fat-related hormones in the development of metabolically healthy obesity. Specifically, we sought to compare the levels of NRG4, FGF21, and irisin between metabolically healthy and unhealthy individuals with obesity.
Methods
Patients with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 and aged between 20–50 years were included in the study. Among these patients, those who did not have any metabolic syndrome criteria except for increased waist circumference were defined as metabolically healthy obese. Age, gender, BMI, body fat, and muscle mass.matched metabolically healthy and unhealthy obese groups were compared in terms of FGF21, irisin, and NRG4 levels.
Results
Metabolically healthy and unhealthy obese groups were similar in terms of age and gender. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of BMI, weight, total body fat, muscle, fat-free mass, distribution of body fat and muscle mass. No statistically significant difference was found between irisin, NRG4, and FGF21 levels between metabolically healthy and unhealthy individuals with obesity. It was found that irisin had a significant inverse correlation with BMI and body fat percentage.
Conclusion
The present study showed no difference between metabolically healthy and unhealthy obese individuals in terms of irisin, FGF21, and NRG4 levels. The weak association between irisin and BMI and body fat percentage may suggest a potential link between irisin with metabolic health.
HIF-1α is an important target for future research on the etiology and treatment of biliary atresia
Authors: Ruifeng Zhang , Duan Jianfei
Published: December 2023

Purpose of the study: In this study, our objective was to discover and immunologically profile clusters of molecules associated with copper-induced cell death in biliary atresia (BA) by employing a bioinformatics approach. We conducted an analysis of the GSE46960 dataset, sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), to gain insights into the involvement of copper-related molecular clusters in the development of BA.
Study design: We conducted our study using liver samples collected from 64 children diagnosed with biliary atresia and compared them with 14 age-matched children suffering from other cholestatic diseases. Our investigation revolved around the identification of molecular clusters based on cuproptosis-related genes, while also examining the associated immune cell infiltration. To pinpoint genes specific to each cluster, we employed the Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) algorithm.
Results: We identified dysregulated cuproptosis-related genes and observed activated immune responses in the comparison between biliary atresia and non-biliary atresia control groups. Within biliary atresia, we categorized two distinct cuproptosis-related molecular clusters. Our analysis of immune infiltration indicated notable differences in immune profiles between these two clusters, with Cluster2 displaying relatively higher levels of immune infiltration. Functional analysis further revealed that the cluster-specific Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) in Cluster2 were closely associated with a variety of immune responses.
Conclusions: Our study provides a comprehensive depiction of the intricate relationship between copper-induced cell death and biliary atresia. Previous research has suggested a potential link between the activation of the HIF-1alpha pathway and the development of biliary atresia, and the findings presented in this paper lend support to this hypothesis.
Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Haregu Firezer , Wong Ningyan , McCulloch Michael , Lim D. Scott
Published: December 2023

Rigorous clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) to treat severe secondary mitral regurgitation in adults with primary cardiomyopathy who have failed guideline directed medical therapy, as well as those with primary mitral regurgitation at high surgical risk. To date, there have only been three case reports describing this procedure in the pediatric population. We report a case series of four pediatric patients, including the youngest and smallest reported, who underwent this procedure.
Successfully Managed Alcoholic Ketoacidosis With Sepsis Leading to Mods: a Case Report
Authors: Roy Ishita , Roy Nilanjan
Published: December 2023

We present the case of a 28-year-old male with a history of alcohol dependency and smoking, who presented with chest pain, shortness of breath, and altered sensorium. He exhibited severe metabolic acidosis, low platelet count, and acute kidney injury. Alcoholic ketoacidosis (AKA) was suspected due to ketonuria, metabolic acidosis, and ketonemia, compounded by electrolyte abnormalities and radiographic findings of pneumonia. Prompt intervention included electrolyte correction, thiamine supplementation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and diuretics. Thiamine played a pivotal role in the patient's recovery, with significant improvement in consciousness observed within a day. After six days, the patient was discharged in stable condition, showing normal renal and hepatic function during follow-up. This case emphasizes the need for early recognition and comprehensive management in AKA, highlighting thiamine's crucial role in treatment success.
From Siberia to Indonesia: tracking the migration of the Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis
Authors: Heim Wieland , Bourski Oleg , Shchemeleva Katya , Tøttrup Anders P. , Thorup Kasper
Published: December 2023

Little is known regarding the migration routes of songbird populations breeding in Siberia. Here we provide the first geolocator tracking data for an Arctic Warbler breeding in Central Siberia and compare its movements with eight long-distance ring recoveries of this species. In autumn, the tracked individual migrated eastward to a stopover site in eastern Siberia, before migrating southward through Taiwan to its non-breeding sites in the Philippines and Indonesia. During spring migration, the bird spent at least one month at stopover sites in Mongolia, before migrating to its breeding site in June. Ring recovery data confirmed the movement between the Central Siberian breeding grounds and stopover sites in northern Mongolia.
Understanding the Value of Alleviating Health-Related Suffering and Palliative Care Centered in Lived Experience: The SAVE Toolkit
Authors: Bhadelia Afsan , Greaves Natalie , Doubova Svetlana , Knaul Felicia M.
Published: December 2023

Health-related suffering generated by life-limiting or life-threatening conditions is a complex phenomenon inextricably linked with human experience. Most of this suffering can be ameliorated with access to quality palliative care that is not available in most parts of the world, especially low-resource settings. Some exploration of the definitional boundaries of and needs pertaining to health-related suffering suggests that patients and families assign importance to the compassionate and supportive aspects of palliative care. However, the value of alleviating health-related suffering to patients and caregivers has not been systematically studied and limited to high-income contexts. Comprehensive evidence can support the overall investment case for expanding access to palliative care worldwide. The SAVE (Suffering Alleviation and the Value of Experiential knowledge) Toolkit provides a protocol and qualitative instrument to examine the value assigned to suffering alleviation based on lived experience. Informed by literature reviews, deliberation of a global expert group on limitations of quantitative measurement of suffering, and piloting in two countries – Barbados and Mexico – the SAVE Toolkit can contribute to a body of evidence that is anchored by experiential knowledge of the illness trajectory to advance people-centered health policy and systems research. The Toolkit, a part of broader work in follow-up to the Lancet Commission on Global Access to Palliative Care and Pain Relief, incorporates guidance on qualitative evidence generation and its importance to understanding lived experience. Finally, implications for health systems responsiveness and high-value healthcare are discussed alongside opportunities for future research.
Phenomenological XXZ model for the competition between superconductivity and charge order in cuprates
Authors: Venditti Giulia , Maccari Ilaria , Lorenzana José , Caprara Sergio
Published: December 2023

We argue that there is a special doping point in the phase diagram of cuprates, such that the condensation of holes into a charge-ordered and a superconducting phase are degenerate in energy but with an energy barrier in between. We present Monte Carlo simulations of a phenomenological XXZ model for this problem without and with quenched disorder in two dimensions. While in the clean case charge order and superconductivity are separated by a first-order line which is nearly independent of temperature, in the presence of quenched disorder charge order is fragmented into domains separated by superconducting filaments reminiscent of the supersolid behaviour in ^44He. Assuming weak interlayer couplings, the resulting phase diagram of the three-dimensional system is in good agreement with the experiments.
Aswan Heart Centre: Fundamental values
Authors: Farid Ingi
Published: December 2023

To celebrate Aswan Heart Centre’s 15th Anniversary, which is an integral and core part of the Magdi Yacoub Foundation, it was decided to review the Values that have contributed significantly to the progress of AHC. To do this, we had a consensus meeting and the proceedings of the meeting represented our core values.
Embolization of infective endocarditis vegetation causes intracranial hemorrhage with hemorrhagic transformation after ischemic stroke
Authors: Aslani Averina Octaxena , Haryawan Zahran , Sabrawi Tania A. , Wibowo Robin H. , Dewi Aprilianasry U.
Published: December 2023

Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a rare, but potentially fatal, infectious disease. One of the common complications of IE is the embolization of endocardial vegetation with subsequent intracerebral artery obstruction that causes acute ischemic stroke. Herein, we present a case report of a patient presenting with a neurological manifestation that turned out to be a complication of IE.
Case Illustration: We present the case of a patient with a chief complaint of left- sided hemiplegia. Blood test results revealed signs of infection. Computed tomography (CT) of the head revealed extensive infarction in the right lobe and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Echocardiography revealed vegetation on the aortic valve, suggesting that IE was the source of embolization. The patient was treated with high- dose ampicillin and gentamicin, supportive stroke therapy, and physical rehabilitation.
Conclusion: IE can be considered one of the causes of acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Ruling out other common causes of stroke and noticing signs of infection and vascular phenomena helps define the diagnosis. Echocardiography helps identify valvular vegetation to support the diagnosis. Treatment consists of high-dose penicillin and supportive therapy for stroke.
Inter-comparison of global precipitation data products at the river basin scale
Authors: Hu Xiaolong , Zhou Zheng , Xiong Haibin , Gao Quan , Cao Xiayu , Yang Xuhai
Published: December 2023

While many studies have compared global precipitation datasets at national, continental, and global scales, few have evaluated these data at river basin scales. This study explored differences in precipitation estimates and trends of 12 widely applied precipitation datasets, including gauge-, satellite-, and reanalysis-based products, for the world's 6,292 river basins. Results showed that disparities between 12 precipitation datasets were considerable. A total of 3,125 river basins, with a land area of 5,989.1×104 km2, had differences in estimated annual average precipitation exceeding 500 mm yr−1, and these basins were mainly distributed in Greenland, Africa, Oceania, and West Asia. Disparities between the precipitation datasets were particularly large during the dry season when the percentage difference between the highest and lowest precipitation estimates exceeded 500% in 1,390 river basins (4,839.7×104 km2) expected due to numerical reasons. Differences in rainfall trends also varied markedly between data sources. The data products do not agree on precipitation trends for all river basins. These findings illustrate the importance of accurate precipitation data to ensure effective policy and planning in term of hydropower generation, domestic water supply, flood protection, and drought relief at river basin scales and highlight the uncertainty that exists in current global precipitation data.
Exploring Potential Biomarkers of Early Thymoma based on Serum
Proteomics
Authors: Jin Min , Liu Peng , Qi Guoyan
Published: December 2023

Background::

Early diagnosis remains difficult because the early symptoms of thymoma
are atypical.

Objective::

This study aimed to analyze the changes of serum proteins in the early stage of thymoma
(stage I/II) by proteomics method and to screen and validate candidate biomarkers.

Methods::

Proteins were extracted from 8 sera patients with stage I/II thymoma and 9 healthy controls.
The levels of serum proteins were detected by data-independent acquisition (DIA) quantitative
proteomics techniques, and the differential proteins were identified. The proteomic results
were verified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, differentially expressed proteins
were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC).

Results::

There were 80 differentially expressed proteins between the patients with thymoma and
the healthy control group, among which 39 were up-regulated and 41 were down-regulated. Differential
protein enrichment is involved in environmental information processing, signaling
molecules and interactions, and in the body system and the immune system. The analysis of receptor
working characteristic curves showed that the areas under the curve of CORO1A, SAA1 and
LTA4H were all larger than 0.8, indicating that these proteins had good diagnostic value.

Conclusion::

CORO1A, SAA1 and LTA4H may be new biomarkers for early screening of thymoma.
Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf.: A Review of Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and
Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Hop Nguyen Quang , The Son Ninh
Published: December 2023

Boesenbergia rotunda (the family Zingiberaceae) is a well-known medicinal plant from Southeast
Asia and China. Its parts, especially the roots, were used as an alternative in cuisine, and flavoring. Many attempts
tend to explore its phytochemistry and pharmacological values. The ultimate goal of this review is to
critically offer the pharmacological values and mechanisms of action of B. rotunda crude extracts and their isolated
compounds. Phytochemical investigation and pharmacokinetics were also discussed.On the basis of the
most effective keyword “Boesenbergia rotunda”, the relevant data have been gathered from international electronic
sources, including Sci-Finder, Google Scholar, PubMed, and reputation publishers. B. rotunda species
was reported to contain two main chemical classes of phenolics and terpenoids. Its constituents have great biological
values and spread out to drug development, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobacterial,
antioxidative, ani-viral, anti-insect, antidiabetic, anti-allergic, anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective,
rhenoprotective, gastroprotective, skin protective, vasorelaxant, and aphrodisiac activities. Various pharmacological
actions were successfully proven by the underlying mechanisms. (–)-Panduratin A seems to be the most
active compound with an oral bioavailability of 7-9%. B. rotunda plant extracts are safe in use with LD50 > 4.0
g/kg. Pharmacokinetic studies indicated that the metabolism of B. rotunda constituents may be related to the
oxidation and glucuronidation of its phenolic compounds. Further phytochemical and pharmacological studies
are expected, as well as clinical applications are urgently needed.
Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) among People Living with HIV in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Manshadi SeyedAli Dehghan , Pirdehi Ali Keyhani , Shahmohamadi Elnaz , Nezhad Malihe Hasan , Abbaspour Faezeh , Mahrokhi Sona , SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad
Published: December 2023

Background::

Sexual problems are rarely addressed in human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) management, even though overt sexual dysfunctions are more prevalent in people living
with HIV. This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) among HIVinfected
men in a stable clinical state, examine the relationship between antiretroviral therapy
(ART) exposure and sexual dysfunction, and identify the associated risk factors

Method::

This cross-sectional study recruited HIV-positive males who visited the Voluntary
Counseling and Testing (VCT) center of Imam Khomeini Hospital (Tehran) in 2020. The International
Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire was used to evaluate the ED in participants.
Sociodemographic and clinical data were also collected.

Results::

Of 65 patients who participated in this study, 27.7% had ED. The mean age of participants
with and without ED was 39.4±11.5 and 40.4±7.6 years old, respectively. No significant difference
was observed between patients with and without ED concerning the sociodemographic status
and the use of ART drugs.

Conclusion::

The prevalence of ED is relatively high among men living with HIV. Future research
is recommended among HIV-positive males to identify the underlying causes and explore the potential
impact that associated psychological distress could have on sexual dysfunction.
Quantitative HPLC-based Metabolomics Approach for the Discrimination
of Processed Rhizomes of Atractylodes Macrocephala
Authors: Hai Cao Thanh , Uyen Nguyen Thu , Giang Do Hoang , Minh Nguyen Thi Thu , Duong Hoang Thuy , Nhat Le Bui Thi , Thanh Nguyen Trung , Minh Truong Ngoc , Dat Nguyen Tien
Published: December 2023

Background:

The current study presents a method for the simultaneous quantification of
atractylenolide I, II, and III, together with syringin, syringaresinol-4-O-β-D-glucoside and caffeine in
Atractylode macrocephala (AM) rhizomes. Contents of the metabolites, in combination with the
metabolomics approach, were used to discriminate AM rhizomes, which were processed by different
methods.

Methods:

An HPLC Agilent 1100 system with a Thermo Hypersil BDS C18 column (L × I.D. 250
mm × 4.6 mm, 5.0 µm particle size) was used for the quantification of the compounds in the AM
samples. The detection wavelengths were set up at 220 nm and 280 nm, respectively. A gradient of
acetonitrile and water was utilized as the mobile phase. From the quantification results, the process
AM rhizomes were discriminated using multivariate statistical methods, such as Principle component
analysis and Hierarchical clustering analysis.

Results:

The contents of atractylenolide I, II, and III, syringin, syringaresinol-4-O-β-D-glucoside,
and caffeine in the AM samples were simultaneously quantified. The linear range of each reference
compound was selected from 5 to 100 μg/mL, the linearity with R2 values varied from 0.9990 to
0.9997, the limits of quantification (LOD) ranged from 0.1 to 0.9 μg/mL, LOQ ranged from 0.2 to
2.6 μg/mL, while the intra- and inter-day recovery distributed between 96.0% and 104.8% indicated
the precision and accuracy of the quantification method. These satisfied the criteria FDA standards
for bioanalytical method validation. Multivariate statistical results revealed that atractylenolide I was
the marker of the alcohol presoaking samples, syringaresinol-4-O-β-D-glucoside, and atractylenolide
III were representative compounds for the terra stirring AM rhizomes.

Conclusion:

For the first time, six investigated bioactive compounds in Atractylodes macrocephala
were simultaneously quantified using the HPLC-DAD method. About 30 samples in four types of
processed rhizomes of A. macrocephala were discriminated using the quantification results in combination
with multivariate statistical methods. These results revealed a promising method for discrimination
and quality assurance of products from processed AM rhizomes.
Universal and Reversible Gate Design in Quantum-dot Cellular Automata
Nanotechnology
Authors: Sharma Vijay Kumar , Riyaz Sadat
Published: December 2023

Background:

Growing progress in the field of nanoelectronics necessitates ever more advanced
nanotechnology due to the continued scaling of conventional devices. For the purpose of fabricating
current integrated circuits (ICs), Quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA) nanotechnology is the
most suitable substitute for complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology. The
problem of short-channel secondary effects at the ultra-nanoscale level confronts CMOS technology

Aims:

QCA nanotechnology overcomes the issues of conventional logic circuit design methods due to
its numerous advantages. This research work aims to design an energy-efficient, reliable, universal,
3×3, and reversible logic gate for the implementation of various logical and Boolean functions in
QCA nanotechnology.

Objective:

It is desirable for portable systems to have a small size, extremely low power consumption,
and a clock rate in the terahertz. As a result, QCA nanotechnology is an incredible advancement for
digital system applications and the design of future systems.

Methods:

This research article proposes a novel, ultra-efficient, multi-operative, 3×3 universal reversible
gate implemented in QCA nanotechnology using precise QCA cell interaction. The proposed
gate is used for the implementation of all the basic logic gates to validate its universality. The implementation
of all thirteen standard Boolean functions establishes the proposed gate's multi-operational
nature. The energy dissipation analysis of the design has been presented for the varying setups.

Results:

The proposed gate is area-efficient because it uses minimum QCA cells. Various logical and
Boolean functions are effectively implemented using the proposed gate. The result analysis establishes
the minimum energy dissipation of the proposed design and endorses it as an ultra-efficient design.

Conclusion:

The QCA cell interaction method demonstrates the best way to design a universal,
reversible, and multi-operative gate.
Formulation and Evaluation of Ion-Triggered In situ gel for Effective Ocular Delivery of Ciprofloxacin HCl and Olopatadine HCl in Combination
Authors: Shaikh Darakhshan A. , Momin Munira M.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Ocular in situ gels (ISG) are an adequate substitute to overcome the pitfalls of conventional eye drops as they acquaintance the advantages of solutions, including accuracy, dosing frequency, and ease of administration with prolonged contact with the ocular membrane.

Objective:

The present investigation aims to develop the ion-triggered in situ gel (ITISG) system for the convenient administration of Ciprofloxacin HCl (CFH) and Olopatadine HCl (OLH) in combination by employing gellan gum to prolong the pre-corneal residence, optic bioavailability and declines dosing frequency.

Methods:

The ISG material and critical quality attributes (CQA) were identified. Quality by De-sign (QbD) was established to optimize the formulation. Nine experimental formulations were de-signed (F1-F9) and assigned to distinct physicochemical and in vitro examinations.

Results:

Optimized batch F2 exhibited all the findings within acceptable limits. The Ion-triggered ISG technique exhibits maximum drug release over a 240-min cycle, much more significant than conventional eyedrops (60 min), suggesting sustained drug distribution and superior corneal penetration and absorption.

Conclusion:

Comprehensive findings of the present investigation conclude that the CFH and OLH would be effectively formulated as an ion-triggered ISG system to manage several draw-backs associated with prolonged release, ocular retention, and better corneal penetration com-pared with conventional eyedrops.
Design Aspects of Lower Limb Exoskeleton
Authors: S Arunkumar , M Sarath
Published: December 2023

Aim:

This research work aimed at the design, simulation, and validation of a lower limb
exoskeleton for rehabilitation. The device can provide regressive gait training for patients suffering
from lower limb mobility disorders.

Background:

People suffering from mobility disorders, such as spinal cord injuries, and other related
diseases are in high proportion. Exoskeletons play a vital role in enhancing the lifestyle of people
with disorders. Devices that provide locomotion assistance and help in reducing the burden of therapists
through effective and repetitive gait training are in high demand. Exoskeletons have further extended
to the fields of the military to enhance the performance of physically abled persons. Prototype
development of lower limb exoskeletons is too expensive and many of them are patented. The requirement
for this system to perform human trials is subjective to several medical and ethical norms.
Thus, there exists a need to evaluate and validate the exoskeleton designs.

Methods:

In this work, the design has been made inclusive of different body shapes and sizes. The
device has been modeled in SOLIDWORKS and its structural integrity has been analyzed using the
ANSYS software. Later, the model has been subjected to environmental assessment and then motion
analysis using the ADAMS software.

Results:

The structural integrity analysis has revealed the design to be adequate to carry the applied
load as the stresses induced were less than the yield strength of the material. The sustainability
analysis showed that LLE made of aluminium alloy had less impact on the environment relative to
the other two materials.

Conclusion:

The kinematic simulation revealed that the angular amplitudes, the reaction force of the
right hip and knee joint, and the contact force between the shoe and the ground of the exoskeleton
agreed well with the experimental findings of the literature.
Antibacterial Drug Development Using Starch Nanoparticles
Authors: Bera Smritilekha
Published: December 2023

The naturally available carbohydrate polymer, starch, is biodegradable and biocompatible,
making it suitable for drug encapsulation due to the presence of various hydroxy functionalities.
Multidrug resistance in antibacterial agents can sometimes limit their use and pose toxicity issues
due to dose-related problems resulting from the low bioavailability or solubility of hydrophobic
drugs. To address this issue, antibiotics are delivered using nanocarriers that protect therapeutic
agents from degradation and enhance the delivery of hydrophobic drugs. This review article discusses
the utilization of starch nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles or carriers for antibacterial
agents.
Ion-activated In Situ Gel of Gellan Gum Containing Chrysin for Nasal
Administration in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Lavania Khushboo , Garg Anuj
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

This study focused on creating an innovative treatment approach for Parkinson's
disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative condition characterized by the loss of specific
neurons in the brain.

Aim:

The research aimed to develop a nasal gel using gellan gum containing a complex of chrysin
with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) to enhance the drug’s solubility and stability.

Method:

The formulation process involved utilizing central composite design (CCD) to optimize
the concentrations of gellan gum and HPMC E5, with viscosity and mucoadhesive strength as key
factors. The resulting optimized in situ gel comprised 0.7% w/v gellan gum and 0.6% w/v HPMC
E5, exhibiting desirable viscosity levels for both sol and gel states, along with robust mucoadhesive
properties. The formulated gel underwent comprehensive evaluation, including assessments for gelation,
drug content, in vitro drug release, ex vivo permeation, and histopathology.

Result:

The findings demonstrated superior drug release from the in situ gel compared to
standalone chrysin. Ex vivo studies revealed effective drug permeation through nasal mucosa without
causing harm. Moreover, experiments on neuronal cells exposed to oxidative stress (H2O2-
induced) showcased significant neuroprotection conferred by chrysin and its formulations. These
treatments exhibited notable enhancements in cell viability and reduced instances of apoptosis and
necrosis, compared to the control group. The formulations exhibited neuroprotective properties by
mitigating oxidative damage through mechanisms, like free radical scavenging and restoration of
antioxidant enzyme activity.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this developed in situ gel formulation presents a promising novel nasal
delivery system for PD therapy. By addressing challenges related to drug properties and administration
route, it holds the potential to enhance treatment outcomes and improve the quality of life for
individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Fundamental Concepts of Topological Insulators
Authors: Shakeel R.
Published: December 2023

The notion of topological insulators was first introduced to explain the concept of Quantum Hall Effect. The Quantum Hall State (QHS) does not disrupt symmetries but showed fundamental properties (like quantized Hall conductivity, the number of conducting edge-mode) that are not affected by smooth changes in different material parameters and are not subject to change if the system goes through the quantum phase-transition. A topological insulator (TI) just like an ordinary insulator has a large energy gap that is separating the highest-filled electronic band from the lowest empty-band. However, a topological insulator's surface must have gapless electronic states which are protected by the time-reversal symmetry (TRS). Like QHS, having distinctive gapless chiral edge-states on the surface or the edge-states of the topological insulators (TIs) are topologically shielded and reveal conducting states having properties that are unlike any other known 1D and 2D electronic systems. Strong spin-orbit interactions under the conservation of time-reversal symmetry (TRS) are the driving force behind these substances. Moreover, Topological insulators (TIs) were revealed experimentally for the first time in 2007 by the consideration of the condensed-matter physics community which become fully focused on a novel category of materials. The 3D topological insulator's new qualities could result in some fascinating applications because they are very common semiconductors and their topological properties can withstand high temperatures. Hence, Topological insulators (TIs) are those materials that are electrically inert in bulk but can carry out electricity due to their topologically protected electronic edge-state as well as surface states.
Comparative Chemical Study For Species of The Eryngium genus
Authors: Adnan Huda , Ha. Al-Edhari Aboothar
Published: December 2023

Five species of Eryngium L. (Apiaceae) native to Iraq-Eryngium glomeratumLam, Eryngium creticum Lam, Eryngium thyrosoideum Boiss, Eryngium billardieri Lam., and L. Eryngium campestre—are the focus of this comparative chemical taxonomy. Chemical analysis revealed that the five species within the genus could be distinguished by their unique chemical signatures thanks to applying the GC Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) technique to their secondary metabolic components. Species shared specific molecules but had distinct chemical make-ups in others. The chemical properties of the species in the genus were used to calculate Euclidean genetic distance values; the highest value was found to be 5.1962 between E.creticum and E.billardieri, and the pair with the smallest value of Euclidean distance (3.70) was E. campestre and E. billardieri. The clustering analysis was displayed in the phylogenetic tree. The species can be classified into three broad categories along a single Euclidean axis, as indicated by chemical evidence that corroborated the result of Principal Component Analysis (4.9). (PCA). The studies also demonstrated the ability to differentiate and identify evolutionary links across species by showing the independence of species in specific isolated chemicals.
Keywords: Eryngium; genus; Chemical taxonomic; Lam Eryngium, (GC-MS) technique.
The performance of moringa leaf extract application and bagging the bunches to improve fruits quality of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cv. Al-Khadrawi and Al-Buraim
Authors: Abdulrahman Mohammed , Alwan Manar , Abdullah Kadum , Chaffat Mariam
Published: December 2023

The study was conducted at the Fadak farm of the Husseiniya shrine/ Karbala governorate during the growth season 2021 to test the role of application with Moringa leaf extract and the paper bagging of the bunches in improving some qualitative characteristics of the fruits of two palm cultivars, Al-Khadrawi and Al-Buraim. The bunches were sprayed with three concentrations of moringa leaf extract (0, 100, 200 ml. L-1) three times after 7, 10, and 13 weeks of pollination and then bagging the bunches after each application process according to the schedule and plan of the experiment. The results indicated that application with moringa extract and bagging increased the proportion of total dissolved solids (T.S.S.), total sugars and reducing sugars, and decreased the total acidity neutralizing, sucrose, and tannins. Al-Khadrawi cultivar was superior in most of the studied traits.

The study's findings suggest that natural plant extracts (such as Moringa leaf extract) can be utilized as organic amendments or fertilizer additives in conjunction with particular farming practices to enhance the quality of the fruits of some varieties of date palms.

Keywords: T.S.S.; natural extract; Phoenix dactylifera; Arecaceae; Moringaoleifera.