bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Novel Sensitive and Fast Semi-Covalent Molecularly Imprinted Polymer-Based Magnetic Dispersive Solid-Phase Extraction Method (MIP-MDSPE) for Cholesterol Determination in Milk Samples
Authors: Effting Luciane , Bail Alesandro , Segatelli Mariana , Tarley César
Published: June 2023

In the present study, a novel magnetic dispersive solid-phase extraction method using molecularly imprinted polymer synthesized through semi-covalent imprinting approach was developed for cholesterol (CHO) determination in milk samples by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). The adsorbent named Fe3O4/SiO2/MIP (MIP: molecularly imprinted polymers) was prepared through sol-gel polymerization of 3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl isocyanate (ICPTES) covalently bonded to CHO with tetraethoxysilane (TEOS), in the presence of Fe3O4/SiO2 particles. The adsorbent was characterized by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The proposed molecularly imprinted polymer-based magnetic dispersive solid-phase extraction method (MIP-MDSPE) was based on vortex-assisted preconcentration of 10.0 mL of CHO solution in chloroform as donor phase using 10.0 mg of Fe3O4/SiO2/MIP during 60 s. After this step, the magnetic particles were collected using a permanent magnet and the vortex-assisted elution was carried with 500 µL of ethanol during 180 s. A wide analytical curve ranging from 38.5 to 25000 µg L-1 (determination coefficient (R2 ) = 0.998) and low limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) 11.5 and 38.5 µg L-1, respectively, were obtained. Milk samples (whole and reduced-fat milk) were subjected to MIP-MDSPE method after saponification reaction followed by CHO extraction with chloroform. Using external calibration, the CHO concentration ranged from 99.2 (reduced-fat milk) to 397.6 mg kg-1 (whole milk) and the accuracy was attested by addition and recovery tests (92 to 97%).
Renewable energy of wastewater heat recovery
Authors: Alisawi Hussein Abed Obaid
Published: June 2023

Wastewater heat recovery (HR) is one of the renewable energy sources. The associated harmful environmental, health, and social effects of traditional biomass, fossil fuel, and other polluted sources have enhanced the growing interest in the search for an alternate cleaner energy source globally. The major objective of this study is to develop a model to assess the impacts of wastewater flow (WF), the temperature of wastewater (TW), and internal temperature in sewer pipes (TA) on the performance of HR. Sanitary sewer networks in Karbala city of Iraq were chosen as a case study in the present research. Statistical and physically based models such as the storm water management model (SWMM), multiple-linear regression (MLR), and structural equation model (SEM) were used for this purpose. The model outputs were analyzed to assess the performance of HR in the context of changing WF, TW, and TA. The results showed that the total amount of HR from wastewater in Karbala city center during the 70 days was 136,000 Mw. The study clearly showed that WF in Karbala played a major role in HR. Basically, the heat from wastewater is CO2-free and represents a significant opportunity for the energy transition in the heating market.
ZNF667 Suppressed LPS-induced Macrophages Inflammation through mTOR-dependent Aerobic Glycolysis Regulation
Authors: Li Yong-Zhen , Chao Ru , Qu Shun-Lin , Huang Liang , Zhang Chi
Published: June 2023

Background:

Macrophages participate in all stages of the inflammatory response, and the excessive
release of inflammatory mediators and other cytokines synthesized and secreted by macrophages is fundamentally
linked to an uncontrolled inflammatory response. The zinc finger 667 (ZNF667) protein, a novel DNAbinding
protein, has been shown to play a vital role in oxidative stress. However, none of the target genes in
macrophages or the potential roles of ZNF667 have been elucidated to date.

Objectives:

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of ZNF667 on LPS-induced inflammation
in macrophages.

Methods:

The RAW264.7 macrophage cell line was selected as a model system. Inflammatory response-related
gene expression levels and phosphorylation levels of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR were detected in LPS-treated
macrophages via RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively.

Results:

We found that LPS resulted in the up-regulation of ZNF667 in macrophages and a peak response in
ZNF667 protein expression levels when used at a concentration of 100 ng/mL. ZNF667 overexpression significantly
inhibited the LPS-induced up-regulation of iNOS, and IL-1β mRNA and protein expression levels, together
with the secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. ZNF667 overexpression also inhibited PI3K, AKT, and
mTOR hyperphosphorylation and had no effect on the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65, ERK1/2, MAPK p38,
and the transcriptional activity of NF-κB in macrophages. The up-regulation of ZNF667 inhibited the levels of
expression of HK2 and PFKFB3, glucose consumption, and lactate production in LPS-stimulated macrophages.
The up-regulation of mRNA levels of LPS-induced glycolytic genes HK2 and PFKFB3 and the increased mRNA
expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and iNOS) were abolished by hexokinase inhibitor 2-DG
in ZNF667-deficient macrophages. Meanwhile, glucose consumption and lactate production were abrogated in
macrophages when cells were treated with the specific mTOR inhibitor RPM.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate that ZNF667 suppressed LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage inflammation
by regulating mTOR-dependent aerobic glycolysis.
The Effect of Quercetin in the Yishen Tongluo Jiedu Recipe on the
Development of Prostate Cancer through the Akt1-related CXCL12/
CXCR4 Pathway
Authors: Ning Yu , Wu Yongrong , Zhou Qing , Teng Yongjie
Published: June 2023

Background:

It remains a challenge to effectively treat prostate cancer (PCa) that affects
global men's health. It is essential to find a natural alternative drug and explore its antitumor
mechanism due to the serious toxic side effects of chemotherapy.

Methods:

The targets and signaling pathways were analyzed by network pharmacology and verified
by molecular docking and LC-MS. The proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration of
DU145 cells were detected by the CCK-8 method, flow cytometry, and Transwell, respectively.
The Bcl-2, caspase-3, CXCL12, and CXCR4 expressions and Akt1 phosphorylation were determined
by Western blot. Akt1 overexpression was applied to identify the involvement of the Akt1-
related CXCL12/CXCR4 pathway in regulating PCa. Nude mouse tumorigenesis was performed to
analyze the effect of quercetin on PCa in vivo.

Results:

Network pharmacology analysis displayed that quercetin was the main active component
of the Yishen Tongluo Jiedu recipe and Akt1 was the therapy target of PCa. LC-MS analysis
showed that quercetin existed in the Yishen Tongluo Jiedu recipe, and molecular docking proved
that quercetin bound to Akt1. Quercetin inhibited the proliferation of DU145 cells by upregulating
caspase-3 and downregulating Bcl-2 expression, promoting apoptosis and reducing invasion and
migration abilities. In vivo, quercetin downregulated CXCL12 and CXCR4 expressions and inhibited
PCa development by the Akt1-related CXCL12/CXCR4 pathway.

Conclusion:

As the active component of the Yishen Tongluo Jiedu recipe, quercetin inhibited PCa
development through the Akt1-related CXCL12/CXCR4 pathway. This study provided a new idea
for PCa treatment and a theoretical basis for further research.
Comparison of the Sensor-Augmented Pump System with the Advanced
Hybrid Closed-Loop Delivery System: Quality of Life, Diabetes Distress,
and Glycaemic Outcomes in a Real-Life Context
Authors: Benioudakis Emmanouil S. , Karlafti Eleni , Kalaitzaki Argyroula , Kalpou Maria-Alexandra , Georgiou Evangelos D. , Savopoulos Christos , Didangelos Triantafyllos
Published: June 2023

Background:

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is a chronic disease that requires exogenous
insulin administration and intensive management to prevent any complications. Recent innovations
in T1D management technologies include the Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop delivery system
(AHCL). The pioneer AHCL system provides automated basal and automated bolus corrections
when needed

Objective:

This study aimed to compare the Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop (AHCL) system and
the Sensor-Augmented Pump (SAP) with Predictive Low Glucose Management (PLGM) system,
in relation to glycaemic outcomes, general and diabetes-related Quality of Life (QoL), and diabetes
distress.

Methods:

General and diabetes-related QoL were assessed with the Diabetes Quality of Life Brief
Clinical Inventory (DQOL-BCI) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF
(WHOQOL-BREF), respectively. Diabetes distress was assessed with the Diabetes Distress Scale
for Type 1 diabetes (T1-DDS).

Results:

Eighty-nine T1D adults participated in the study, mostly females (65.2%), with a mean
age of 39.8 (± 11.5 years). They had on average 23 years of diabetes (± 10.7) and they were on
continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy. Significant differences favoring the AHCL over
the SAP + PLGM system were demonstrated by lower mean glucose levels, less time above range,
lower scores on DQOL-BCI, T1-DDS, and higher scores on WHOQOL-BREF. Finally, the linear
regression models revealed the association of time in range in most of the above aspects.

Conclusion:

This study highlighted the advantages of the AHCL system over the SAP + PLGM
system in the real-world setting in relation to general and diabetes-related QoL, diabetes distress,
and glycaemic outcomes.
Review for Optimal Human-gesture Design Methodology and Motion
Representation of Medical Images using Segmentation from Depth Data and
Gesture Recognition
Authors: Gupta Anju , Kumar Sanjeev , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: June 2023

Human gesture recognition and motion representation has become a vital base of current intelligent human-machine interfaces because of ubiquitous and more comfortable interaction. Human-Gesture recognition chiefly deals with recognizing meaningful, expressive body movements involving physical motions of face, head, arms, fingers, hands or body. This review article presents a concise overview of optimal human-gesture and motion representation of medical images. This paper surveys various works undertaken on human gesture design and discusses various design methodologies used for image segmentation and gesture recognition. It further provides a general idea of modeling techniques for analyzing hand gesture images and even discusses the diverse techniques involved in motion recognition. This survey provides an insight into various efforts and developments made in the gesture/motion recognition domain through analyzing and reviewing the procedures and approaches employed for identifying diverse human motions and gestures for supporting better and devising improved applications in near future.
Disease Quantification of Liver Lymphoma in CT Images without Lesion
Segmentation
Authors: Li Kexin , Huang Xinwang , Sun Chunxue , Xie Qiancheng , Cong Shijie
Published: June 2023

Aim:

This study aimed to automatically implement liver disease quantification (DQ) in lymphoma using CT images without lesion segmentation.

Background:

Computed Tomography (CT) imaging manifestations of liver lymphoma include diffuse infiltration, blurred boundaries, vascular drift signs, and multiple lesions, making liver lymphoma segmentation extremely challenging.

Methods:

The method includes two steps: liver recognition and liver disease quantification. We use the transfer learning technique to recognize the diseased livers automatically and delineate the livers manually using the CAVASS software. When the liver is recognized, liver disease quantification is performed using the disease map model. We test our method in 10 patients with liver lymphoma. A random grouping cross-validation strategy is used to evaluate the quantification accuracy of the manual and automatic methods, with reference to the ground truth.

Results:

We split the 10 subjects into two groups based on lesion size. The average accuracy for the total lesion burden (TLB) quantification is 91.76%±0.093 for the group with large lesions and 95.57%±0.032 for the group with small lesions using the manual organ (MO) method. An accuracy of 85.44%±0.146 for the group with larger lesions and 81.94%±0.206 for the small lesion group is obtained using the automatic organ (AO) method, with reference to the ground truth.

Conclusion:

Our DQ-MO and DQ-AO methods show good performance for varied lymphoma morphologies, from homogeneous to heterogeneous, and from single to multiple lesions in one subject. Our method can also be extended to CT images of other organs in the abdomen for disease quantification, such as Kidney, Spleen and Gallbladder.
In silico Prediction of ADMET/Drug-likeness Properties of Bioactive
Phloroglucinols from Hypericum Genus
Authors: da Silva Camila Pires Machado , das Neves Gustavo Machado , Poser Gilsane Lino von , Eifler-Lima Vera Lucia , Rates Stela Maris Kuze
Published: June 2023

Background:

Dimeric acylphloroglucinols occurring in species from sections Brathys and Trigynobrathys of the genus Hypericum exhibit acylfilicinic acid and acylphloroglucinol moieties linked by a methylene bridge. However, this chemical feature differs from hyperforin, from H. perforatum (Hypericum section), some dimeric acylphloroglucinols, such as uliginosin B, display similar pharmacological activities, namely antidepressant and antinociceptive. However, there is no knowledge about the pharmacokinetic profile and no toxicity studies of these compounds in intact mammals.

Objective:

to perform an in silico evaluation of the similarity, pharmacokinetics and toxicity (ADMET) properties of dimeric acylphloroglucinols from species native to Central and South America.

Methods:

ADMET prediction of eleven elected phloroglucinols followed by the chemical space evaluation of thirty-five dimeric acylphloroglucinols derivatives labeled according to their prenylation/geranylation pattern through principal component analysis (PCA). The similarity analysis was performed using the Tanimoto similarity index. ADMET properties were predicted with the open-source software SwissADME and pkCSM-pharmacokinetics.

Results:

Several compounds showed good human intestinal absorption. However, they may present difficulties in crossing the blood-brain barrier, probably due to the high tPSA values. The predicted toxicity parameters indicated that most compounds have low toxicity. Most non-prenylated phloroglucinols were disposed into Lipinski’s rule limits. Uliginosin B, isouliginosin B and japonica seem to be druglike compounds. The PCA model explained 77.49% of the total variance, and molecular similarity analyses revealed some expected similarities between isomers and different compounds.

Conclusion:

dimeric acylphloroglucinols may be promising drug candidates and deserve further pharmacological and medicinal chemistry studies.
A Survey on Bio-based Food Packaging Material About the Presence and
Migration of Flame Retardants
Authors: Buiarelli Francesca , Simonetti Giulia , Acquaviva Luca , Riccardi Carmela , Pomata Donatella , Di Filippo Patrizia
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

The present work fits in the context of verifying the safety of some food contact
materials (FCMs) declared sustainable, checking for the presence of different classes of contaminants and
their possible migration.

Background:

Alternative packaging materials have started to step in the market in substitution to plastic
for several years. Most of them come from natural, biological sources to meet biodegradability and compostability.
Nevertheless, some contaminants can be present and concerning for human health.

Objective:

To pursue the goal, we focused on brominated flame retardants, in particular new brominated
flame retardants and bromophenols, as they are considered emerging contaminants, and no legislation has
been enacted yet.

Methods:

After the evaluation of their presence in the seven investigated samples, we adopted migration
tests into proper simulants recommended by the legislation. The analyses were carried out both by gas
chromatography-mass spectrometry and by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Results:

All the items taken into consideration contained detectable concentrations of the investigated
compounds. The total amount of new brominated flame retardants were considered irrelevant to proceed
with the migration study, whereas the migration of bromophenols was studied in deep due to the greater
amount present.

Conclusion:

In overall, the findings obtained on real samples showed that, except in one case the percentage
of chemicals migration measured was very low, to be considered not concerning for human health in
most of the cases.
Biodegradable Polymeric Microspheres as Drug Carriers for Anti-
Microbial Agent
Authors: Bansal Nidhi , Rao Komal , Yadav Nikita , Minocha Neha
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Microspheres, the novel drug delivery system that offers therapeutic alternatives to single-unit dosage forms, both conventional and quick release. Microspheres are solid microspheres having a diameter of 1-1000 µm. Microspheres can be made utilising various procedures that
vary in their effectiveness and dosage form administration when compared to standard dosage forms.

Background:

The idea of targeted drug delivery is to concentrate the treatment in the target tissues
while lowering the relative concentration of the drug in the non-target tissues. As a result, the medication is concentrated at the desired location. Thus, the medication has no effect on the tissues nearby.
Therefore, by combining the drug with carrier particle like microspheres, nanoparticles, liposomes, niosomes, etc., that regulates the release and absorption characteristics of the drug, carrier technology
offers an intelligent way for drug delivery.

Results:

Microspheres are naturally biodegradable materials made of proteins or synthetic polymers
that flow freely. Its formulation is approachable, maintaining the desired concentration at the site of
interest without unfavorable effects and reliably delivering the drug to the target site with specificity.

Conclusion:

Microspheres attracted a lot of interest for their sustained release as well as their ability
to direct anti-cancer medications to the tumour using biodegradable polymers. Due to this, future drug
delivery systems for innovative medications will heavily rely on microspheres.
Recent Approaches to Enhance Osteogenesis of Dental Pulp Stem Cells on
Electrospun Scaffolds
Authors: Safari Zahra , Aghili Seyedeh Sara , Hassantash Sahar , Iranmanesh Ehsan , Abouali Mehdi , Bagherianlemraski Mobina , Ghasemzadeh Shabnam , Dadgar Esmaeel , Barati Ghasem , Saburi Ehsan
Published: June 2023

Critical-sized bone defects are a challenging issue during bone regeneration. Bone tissue engineering
is aimed to repair such defects using biomimicking scaffolds and stem cells. Electrospinning allows
the fabrication of biocompatible, biodegradable, and strengthened scaffolds for bone regeneration.
Natural and synthetic polymers, alone or in combination, have been employed to fabricate scaffolds with
appropriate properties for the osteogenic differentiation of stem cells. Dental pulps are rich in stem cells,
and dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) have a high capacity for proliferation, differentiation, immunomodulation,
and trophic factor expression. Researchers have tried to enhance osteogenesis through scaffold
modification approaches, including incorporation or coating with mineral, inorganic materials, and herbal
extract components. Among them, the incorporation of nanofibers with hyaluronic acid (HA) has been
widely used to promote osteogenesis. In this review, the electrospun scaffolds and their modifications
used in combination with DPSCs for bone regeneration are discussed.
The Effectiveness of Face Masks in Preventing COVID-19 Transmission: A Systematic Review
Authors: SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad , Karimi Amirali , Afsahi Amir Masoud , Mirzapour Pegah , Varshochi Sanaz , Mojdeganlou Hengameh , Mojdeganlou Paniz , Razi Armin , Alilou Sanam , Dashti Mohsen , Ghasemzadeh Afsaneh , Saeidi Solmaz , Mehraeen Esmaeil , Dadras Omid
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks have been among the cornerstones of COVID-19 prevention. Therefore, evaluating their preventive effects against COVID-19 is crucial. This review aimed to systematically search for the systematic review articles that explored the role of various types of face masks in preventing COVID-19.

Methods:

We browsed the keywords of this study in the online databases of Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Cochrane on 10th January 2023 and retrieved all the relevant systematic review articles. The records were downloaded into an Endnote file, and the duplicates were removed. A two-step screening process consisting of title/abstract and full-text screenings was conducted to select the most relevant articles. To ensure the validity and reliability of the results, this study adhered to the PRISMA protocol.

Results:

A total of 28 systematic reviews were included in this review. Most studies found that face masks are beneficial against viral respiratory infections, such as COVID-19. Different types of masks were evaluated in included studies. It appeared that mask efficacy depends on the material, layers, fitting on the face and user compliance. N 95 respirator had maximum efficacy, especially when used continuously.

Conclusion:

Face masks have a beneficial effect against COVID-19. Home masks are less protective than surgical masks or N95 personal breathing masks. Besides, the use of masks may elicit a false sense of security in people, which may lead to poor hand hygiene and violation of social distancing. Therefore, the necessary training should be provided to the public to increase awareness and encourage the right practice of using the mask, emphasizing the preventive effects of washing hands, social distancing, and using a face mask against COVID-19.
Exploring Trachyspermum ammi and Foeniculum vulgare in Hydroponic System and Compare its Chemical Constituents with
Soil-Based Method: A Prospective in Agriculture
Authors: Debnath Shilpa , Sharma Alok
Published: June 2023

Background:

The forthcoming problems will be of food, and soil due to environmental
alteration, growing populations, pollution, and exhaustion of natural resources
among other factors. Hydroponic farming has the capacity to alleviate the intimidation of
these con-cerned issues in the agricultural system. Hydroponics is recommended as an alternative
way to enhance product yield compared to conventional agriculture.

Objective:

The present study aimed to determine the different growth parameters and constituents
of soil-grown and hydroponically grown Trachyspermum ammi and Foeniculum
vulgare for the first time, which could be a patentable in future.

Methods:

In this study, extraction was carried out by maceration method using methanol as
a solvent whereas, growth parameters were performed by the leaves number, plant height,
and leaf area. Chlorophyll content was also performed in both sources. Further, a comparison
of chemical constituents from different sources was analyzed by GC-MS.

Results:

The bioactive com- ponents in hydroponically grown T. ammi were found
more as compared to soil-grown T. ammi. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence
of various compounds in the methanolic extract of plant materials.

Conclusion:

Hence, hydroponics could be an alternative in agriculture and this system is
now accepted globally. This method provides diverse perspectives for farmers to harvest
high-yield, better quality, and enhanced bioactive compounds.
Fabrication, Optimization, and Evaluation of Transdermal Patch: As an
Alternative and Effective Transdermal Delivery System for Nebivolol HCl
Authors: Patil Archana S. , Birkodi Shraja , Masareddy Rajashree S. , Rajpurohit Manisha
Published: June 2023

Background:

Nebivolol HCl is a unique third-generation beta blocker that has less oral bioavailability
and exhibits various adverse effects like gastrointestinal disturbance and abdominal pain.

Objective:

This study aimed to formulate and evaluate nebivolol HCl transferosomal transdermal
patches to reduce the problems associated with oral delivery of the drug and enhancement of drug permeation
through the skin.

Methodds:

Nebivolol HCl loaded transferosomes were prepared by thin film hydration method. Eight
formulations were prepared based on the two independent variables, type of surfactant (Tween 80 and
Span 80) and Phospholipid: Edge activator ratio and were evaluated for their vesicle size, PDI, and entrapment
efficiency. The optimized formulations were incorporated into transdermal patches, which
were evaluated for physicochemical properties, in-vitro and ex-vivo permeation, skin irritancy, and stability
studies.

Results:

The vesicle size of the transferosomes ranged from 49nm to 93nm, and EE% varied from 39%
to 79%. Vesicles formed with Span 80 as an edge activator showed smaller vesicle size and greater
EE% as compared to Tween 80. Based on the results, TW4 and SP4 were selected as the optimized
formulations for further incorporation into the transdermal patches. In-vitro and ex-vivo permeation
studies showed permeation in the order F2 > F3 > F1, indicating that transferosomal formulations
showed superior permeation of the drug compared to plain Nebivolol HCl patches. Span 80 transferosomes
showed a slightly better permeation than Tween 80. Stability studies showed that transferosomes
and the transdermal patches demonstrated good stability under proper storage conditions.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that transferosomal patches of Nebivolol HCl could be used as a potential
approach with effective transdermal delivery for the management of hypertension.
Introduction to Carbocatalysis
Authors: Punjabi Pinki Bala , Gupta Sharoni
Published: June 2023

Carbocatalysis has emerged as a promising field of catalysis. The
exceptional surface morphology, pore distribution, thermal conductivity, chemical
inertness, electrical property and renewability of carbon materials have rendered them
suitable for various catalytic processes namely, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis,
biocatalysis and chemical catalysis. Therefore, the introductory chapter on
carbocatalysis describes the useful properties of carbonaceous materials which govern
their catalytic behaviour. Moreover, synthetic approaches for the fabrication of diverse
carbon polymorphs such as active carbon, graphite, fullerene, glassy carbon, carbon
black, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibres, nanodiamonds, carbon nano-onions, and
graphene have also been briefly discussed in this chapter. The scope of carbocatalysts
over broad areas has also been elucidated by quoting instances. 
Structure and Properties of Graphene and Chemically Modified Graphene Materials
Authors: Srivastava Manish , Banger Anjali , Srivastava Anamika , Kumari Jangid Nirmala , Dwivedi Priy Brat
Published: June 2023

 Graphene is an allotrope of carbon that is made up of very strongly bonded
carbon atoms. The structure of graphene is a hexagonal lattice. Graphene shows sp2
hybridization and an extremely thin atomic thickness of approximately 0.345Nm. This
chapter deals with graphene structure, including hybridization, critical parameters of
the unit cell, the formation of σ and π bonds, electronic band structure, edge
orientations, and the number and stacking order of graphene layers. The remarkable
characteristics of graphene occur because of the extended chain of π conjugation that
results in high charge mobility, high conductivity & high Young's modulus value. Due
to these attractive properties, graphene has gained much attention. Graphene, with the
unique combination of bonded carbon atom structures with its myriad and complex
physical properties is balanced to have a big impact on the future of material sciences,
electronics, and nanotechnology. Graphene is converted to Graphene nanoparticles,
Graphene oxide nanoparticles; Polymer-based graphene composite materials and
Graphene nanoribbons, etc by chemical methods. Some of the application areas are
batteries and ultracapacitors for energy storage and fuel cell and solar cell for energy
generation and some of the possible future directions of research have been discussed. 
Graphene-based Nanocomposite Catalysts: Synthesis, Properties and Applications
Authors: Kumar Jaiswal Pradeep , Ali Munsaf , Sharma Siddharth , Kumar Yadav Dinesh , Satyadev Upadhyay Nitinkumar
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the progress of doped carbon catalysts (such as graphene-based nanocomposites), has attracted the tremendous attention of the scientific
community because of their broad area of applications involving unique mechanical,
electrical and industrial chemical production processes. The catalytic nature of metal doped graphene-based nanocomposites has significantly improved, and provides
alternatives to traditional transition metal-based catalysts. In addition, the progress of
simple and easy synthetic approaches for graphene-based nanocomposites provides a
wide range of opportunities for the synthesis of graphene-based nanocomposites via
incorporating various metal or polymer-based nanomaterials for diverse applications.
In this context, the recent development in the synthesis of graphene-based
nanocomposites, their properties and applications are summarized in this chapter. The
future insights and challenges towards the design and utilization of graphene-based
nanocomposites with decent stability and enhanced catalytic performance are also
outlined in this chapter.
Domino and Multicomponent Reactions by Graphene-Based Carbocatalysts – A Boon for Organic Transformations
Authors: Haripriya S. , Sreeranjan K.M. , Ulkesh Patil Sagar , Sahoo Navneet G.S. , Sushma H.S. , Ahallya S. , R Panicker Rakesh , Vighnesh Ivaturi Sai , Desikan Rajagopal , Jagannadha Rao Vepa , Sivaramakrishna Akella
Published: June 2023

The research on the development of high-performance metal-free
carbocatalysis is one of the emerging areas in chemical sciences. The possible active
sites of the surfaces of graphene, oxygenated, and reduced graphene oxide materials are
responsible for diversified synthetic transformations, including redox reactions. At
present, the advanced research is focused on scalable, sustainable, biocompatible,
green, and cost-effective graphene-based carbocatalysts as wonderful alternatives over
the noble metallic catalytic materials which are being employed despite their scarcity,
high cost, and relative toxicity. The present chapter describes the utility of graphene-based carbocatalysts in multicomponent reactions. 
Graphene Based Biocatalysts
Authors: Jangid Monika , Panchawat Sunita , Jain Abhilasha
Published: June 2023

Enzymes have catalytic properties and can be used for different purposes as
biocatalysts in some industrial processes. However, their applications are limited due to
some drawbacks, such as lack of long-term stability and recovery under conditions of
any particular process. Enzymes can improve their catalytic activity, stability,
reusability, and half life, if these are immobilized on some support. Graphene and
graphene based nanomaterials are good supports for enzymes as they are also non-toxic
materials in nature. Such materials can also find applications in the fields of medical
diagnostics, biofuel cells, biosensors, etc. These particular aspects have been discussed
in this chapter.
Advances in Nano Vaccines: Covid-19
Authors: Asefy Zahra , Nasibova Aygun , Hoseinnejhad Sirus , Selimoğlu Asif , Fırat Baran Mehmet , Keskin Cumali
Published: June 2023

Nanovaccines are considered a new approach in vaccination methodology
specially for Covid-19 infection. Nanovaccines are more effective than conventional
vaccines; Because of humoral and cellular immune responses which are simultaneously
induced. Nano vaccines are assumed to upregulate the immune system as well as
infection prevention. They are probably promising candidates for chronic autoimmune
diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, AIDS, and COVID-19
infectious. Based on this, we will describe the different working mechanisms of
nanoparticles. In addition, applicable nano vaccines which have been approved for
COVID-19 therapy Covid 19 are described. Antigen-carrying nanoparticles can affect
the immune response and significantly enhance cell-T cytotoxic response. Nanoscale
particles can improve vaccine efficiency because of their biomedical benefits. These
properties include Small size, which allows better penetration into tumors and more
half-life tumor cells. Current vaccines, however, are required to re-formulate almost
because of gradual antigen modifications. More ever these vaccines do not protect
against mutations and the low half-life of current vaccines due to limitations of current
technologies. Nano vaccine formulation improvements have been required to induce a
widespread and potent immune response. In this review, we provide an overview of the
types and applications of nanoparticles in vaccines and their outstanding properties that
made them alternatives for Covid-19 treatment. 
COVID-19 Pandemic: Outbreak, Epidemiology and Immunology
Authors: Afreen Uzma , Afreen Ushna , Bano Daraksha
Published: June 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 virus-led COVID-19 pandemic jolted the whole world at
different levels. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) caused death in severe
cases leading to millions of mortalities. This chapter attempts to present an overview of
the whole fiasco created by the spread of the virus along with the historical
background, structural features and important proteins of the virus, modes of infection
and transmission and different diagnostic means like viral and antibody tests. The
authors have presented the latest statistical data on the number of cases and mortalities
reported across the globe and also elaborated on the probable remedial interventions
like the different antiviral, antimalarial drugs which are being explored for treatment
and also explored the utility and applications of drug repurposing and computational
strategies for drug development. The authors have also elaborated on the different
vaccines developed to curb the disease and explained the development of COVID-19
vaccines for children. Overall the chapter has summarized key facts associated with
COVID-19 in a nutshell and it may prove beneficial to the readers to understand the
disease more clearly
Virtual Screening of Phytochemicals in Search of a Potential Drug Candidate for COVID-19: DFT Study and Molecular Docking
Authors: Tiwari Nikita , Jamal Lubna , Mishra Anil
Published: June 2023

The global health pandemic due to COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2,
affected and changed the world’s condition drastically. Herein, we evaluated the
bioactivity of some phytochemicals as inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 M provirus
(6LU7) using computational models. We reported the optimization of phytochemicals
employing density functional theory (DFT) with B3LYP/6-311G+(d,p) level theory.
DFT calculations were employed to determine the free energy, dipole moment as well
as chemical reactivity descriptors. Molecular docking has been performed against the
SARS-CoV-2 M provirus to search the binding affinity and interactions of all
compounds with the respective protein. The known drug, Chloroquine of SARS-CoV-2
main protease, was also docked to evaluate its binding affinity. Besides, the data from
DFT, the docking studies predicted that flavonoids (Quercetin, Myricetin, Apigenin
and Daidzein) have the least binding affinity and might serve as a potent inhibitor
against SARS-CoV-2 comparable with the approved medicine, Chloroquine. The high
binding affinity of flavonoids was attributed to the presence of hydrogen bonds along
with different hydrophobic interactions between the flavonoid and the critical amino
acid residues of the receptor. The DFT calculations showed that flavonoids have high lying HOMO, electrophilicity index and dipole moment. All these parameters could
share a different extent to significantly affect the binding affinity of these
phytochemicals with active protein sites.
La Transformation des Politiques Publiques de la Santé au Cameroun
Authors: IBOCK Martin Raymond Willy MBOG
Published: June 2023

Clé de légitimation du pouvoir en place, la transformation des politiques publiques de la santé au Cameroun constitue une modalité pratique par laquelle le gouvernement entend veiller à ce que tous les individus puissent avoir accès aux services de santé. Cette recherche ambitionne de faire ressortir les voies empruntées par la transformation des politiques publiques de la santé au Cameroun. Un tel objectif, invite à une problématisation du cheminement politique emprunté dans la transformation des politiques publiques de la santé au Cameroun. Mieux encore, comment rendre compte du cheminement politique emprunté dans la transformation des politiques publiques de la santé au Cameroun ? Cette question se justifie par le fait qu’elle permet d’interroger plus globalement les itinéraires de la santé en tant que programme d’action publique. Afin de donner corps à cette interrogation, l’on pose les jalons d’une approche empirique qui mobilise les données qualitatives que quantitatives. En recourant l’approche pragmatique de la transformation des politiques publiques de la santé au Cameroun, l’on démontre que la transformation des politiques publiques de la santé constitue un policy process permettant d’expliquer la trajectoire décisionnelle.
The Implications of the Wagner group in Africa and the Middle East
Authors: De Melo Royce
Published: June 2023

On February 16, 2023, Royce de Melo, an independent security and defense consultant, presented The Implications of the Wagner group in Africa and the Middle East. The key issues discussed were the history of Wagner group operations, current activities in Africa and the Middle East, and the relationship between the group and the Russian state.
Received: 2023-05-15
Revised: 2023-18-05
Badanie percepcji wewnątrzmiejskiego obszaru torfowo-bagiennego na przykładzie Zakola Wawerskiego
Authors: Jarosiński Szymon
Published: June 2023

Przedstawiana praca – z zakresu psychologii środowiskowej – dotyczy postrzegania przyrodniczo cennego obszaru Warszawy – Zakola Wawerskiego przez osoby mieszkające lub przebywające okresowo w jego okolicy. Zakole to jest unikatowym torfowiskiem, stanowiącym relikt po starorzeczu dużej rzeki, zlokalizowanym wewnątrz wielkiego miasta. Badanie miało charakter eksploracyjny względem rodzajów postrzegania tego Zakola, jego bagien i świata ożywionego, sposobów korzystania z niego, a także świadomości ich znaczenia w kontekście zachodzących zmian klimatu i działalności ludzkiej. Wyniki tej eksploracji pokazały, że większość badanych respondentów mieszkających w okolicy nie spędza czasu na tym terenie, nie rozmawia o nim i nie zwraca nań uwagi, tak jakby nie istniał. Przyczyny tego leżą, m.in., w ich subiektywnym poczuciu niskiej estetyki obszaru, co znacząco zmniejsza jego atrakcyjność. Drugim, istotnym wynikiem badania jest fakt, że mimo to, większość mieszkańców zapytanych wprost o ich ocenę Zakola, jest zadowolona z istniejącego w pobliżu obszaru względnie dzikiej przyrody. Cieszy ich zwłaszcza obecność tam zieleni i ptaków. Niewiele wiedzą o ważnej klimatycznej roli torfowisk, mokradeł i bagien, ale poinformowani o tym, wyrażają zadowolenie i wsparcie dla ochrony takich obszarów. Uzyskane wyniki eksploracji są zbieżne z istniejącymi zagranicznymi badaniami na podobny temat. Słowa kluczowe: miejskie obszary bagienne i mokradłowe (urban wetlands), Zakole Wawerskie, percepcja krajobrazu
METHODS OF ECOLOGICAL DESIGN OF SCHOOLS AND KINDERGARTENS
Authors: Volichenko Olga , Vyalykh Roman
Published: June 2023

The article deals with the problems of environmental degradation in the Kursk region as a result of anthropo-genic activity. The attention is focused on the administrative center of this region, its climatic and ecological state. Analyzed the situation of the environment and its impact on children of school and preschool age. Life in the city forces citizens to face daily imbalances that occur with human intervention in the natural ecosystem. The creation of architectural spaces that correspond to the age and characteristics of the socialization of children, providing a har-monious natural environment, is aimed primarily at the development of mental and physical health. The comfortable object-spatial environment of educational centers seeks to develop the abilities of preschool and school-age children to the maximum. To this end, the article considers foreign experience in the environmental design of educational insti-tutions - schools and kindergartens.
Kursk, located in the west of Russia, is characterized by a temperate continental climate with no priority wind directions. Its general ecological characteristics are quite high in comparison with other subjects. Based on the anal-ysis of data on air pollution, precipitation, harmful substances in building materials, proposals are made on ways to level adverse factors in the design of children's school and preschool institutions. A design solution is proposed for the educational complex (secondary school and kindergarten), from innovative structures of special rigidity and strength, made by industrial methods, which ensures quick and high-quality assembly of the object at the construction site. The compositional and planning solution of the complex takes into account the favorable orientation of class-rooms and group rooms; the adopted form of the building is due to wind protection and functional zoning, and is generally aimed at creating an optimal and safe space.
MODELING OF HUMAN HEAT TRANSFER IN URBAN BUILDINGS WITH CONSIDERING THE EFFECT OF HEAT ISLANDS
Authors: Abramov Anton , Pchelenok Olga , Rodicheva Margarita
Published: June 2023

Computer modeling of heat transfer in the air volume of residential buildings was carried out taking into ac-count the effect of heat islands. The model includes directly the air volume, limited on both sides by the surfaces of asphalt and the wall of the building, as well as a model of the human body located at a given distance from the wall.
In accordance with the climatic features of the territory of the Oryol region in the summer months with low cloudiness, the initial conditions of the computational problem are formed, which determine the modes of heat ex-change of heated surfaces with the air of residential buildings. For each of these modes, numerical modeling of natu-ral convective processes in the considered air volume was carried out. For this, differential equations of energy, mo-tion and continuity are solved for the system "complex of heated surfaces - air volume" for each combination of initial conditions, as well as various positions of the human body model relative to the heated wall of the building. It has been established that as a result of heat exchange in the air volume, a convective cell is formed, the shape and dimen-sions of which are determined by the temperature regime of building walls and asphalt. The influence of heat transfer processes on the surface of the human body on the parameters of this cell is revealed. The shape of this cell is estimat-ed under various initial conditions.
Differences in heat fluxes on the surfaces of the human body facing the building and away from it are estab-lished. The dependences of the convective heat transfer of a person on the distance between him and the heated wall of the building are obtained. The quantitative values of the parameters of convective heat transfer of the body under various heat transfer modes, in particular, the temperature and speed of air movement in the upward flow, as well as the values of natural convective heat transfer, are determined.
THE INFLUENCE OF «GREEN» ROOFS ON THE REDUCTION OF STORM DRAINS
Authors: Sysoeva Elena , Bogachev Alexey
Published: June 2023

The study examines a way to reduce stormwater runoff in urban conditions using the device of «green» roofs in the design and construction, reconstruction and overhaul of buildings and structures. The sewer system of modern increasingly growing cities often cannot cope with the load exerted on it. Therefore, an environmentally friendly and effective reduction of storm runoff is one of the main challenges in the field of urban planning today. Despite the fact that foreign works devoted to this topic, as well as the experience of practical application of roof greening technolo-gies abroad have proved a significant reduction in runoff, the question of the expediency of this method in Russian realities remains open. It is important to take into account not only the water-holding capacity of «green» roofs as such, but also the meteorological peculiarities of the territory where construction is planned, the methods of produc-tion technology and the construction materials used. Until now, the study of this aspect in the Russian Federation has not been given sufficient importance, which, in turn, delayed the introduction of modern technologies for the installa-tion of green roofs in our country, and also slowed down the development and approval of the necessary regulatory framework. The article provides a theoretical proof of the effectiveness of «green» roofs in reducing rain and snow-melt runoff in the climatic conditions of Central Russia, based on statistical and empirical data. The results obtained may be valuable for the further development of «green» technologies in construction and for ensuring environmental safety in our country.