bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degree of Gelatination on Ag-Nanoparticles to Inactivate Multi-drug
Resistant Bacterial Biofilm Isolated from Sewage Treatment Plant
Authors: Girigoswami Agnishwar , Saraswathi Nagaraj , Girigoswami Koyeli , Divya Kurunchi Chellapathi , Kumar Subbaraj Gowtham
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Overuse and improper dosage of antibiotics have generated antimicrobial
resistance (AMR) worldwide. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), a well-known bacterial strain can establish
MDR leading to a variety of infections in humans. Furthermore, these PA strains hold the ability to
form biofilms by generating extracellular polymeric substances on the surface of medical tools and
critical care units. To supersede the infectious effect of MDR organisms, silver nanoparticles have been
known to be the choice.

Materials and Methods:

Hence, the present study concentrates on the engineering of varying concentrations
of gelatin-based polymeric hydrogel embedded with silver nanoparticles (G-AgNPs) for controlled
bactericidal activity against MDR PA biofilms. Biofilms formation by MDR PA was confirmed
microscopically and spectroscopy was taken as a tool to characterize and analyze the efficacy at every
stage of experiments.

Results:

When MDR PA biofilms were treated with G-AgNPs prepared with 5 % gelatin concentration
(AgNP3), they exhibited superior bactericidal activity. Furthermore, a dose-dependent study showed
that 800 nM of AgNP3 could inhibit the growth of MDR PA.

Conclusion:

Hence it can be concluded that silver nanoparticles synthesized in the presence of 5%
gelatin can act as a bactericidal agent in the inactivation of MDR PA biofilms, thereby controlling the
infections caused by these biofilms.
Wound Healing Properties of Pelargonium Graveolens L'Hér Extract
Lipogel: In-Vivo Evaluation in an Animal Burn Model
Authors: Ebrahimnejad Pedram , Farmoudeh Ali , Asgarirad Hossein , Tehrani Bardia Berenji , Azad bakht Mohammad , Davoodi Ali , Rezaeiroshan Anahita , Hosseini Seyyedeh Saba
Published: May 2022

Background:

Pelargonium graveolens L'Hér has traditionally been used to reduce skin inflammation,
and recent studies have confirmed antioxidant compounds in the plant's extract. The present
study aimed to prepare a lipogel formulation from P. graveolens hydroalcoholic extract and evaluate
its efficacy on the wound healing process in an animal model.

Material and Methods:

The aerial part extract of P. graveolens was prepared through percolation. Additionally,
plastibase was prepared by mixing 5% of low-molecular-weight polyethylene with hot mineral
oil (130°C). The extract (5%) was levigated in the mineral oil (5-15%) and dispersed in the cooled
plastibase. The physical properties of the lipogel, thermal stability, and microbial limits were tested.
Further, the effect of the lipogel in the wound healing rate was examined among male Wistar rats, and
skin tissue samples were assessed histologically.

Results and Discussion:

The results represented the best rheological and thermal stability characteristics
in the formulation with 5% mineral oil (as the levigator). The lipogel-treated group had the least
burn area compared to the silver sulfadiazine and negative control groups (p<0.05). The microscopic
examination of tissue samples revealed increased collagen fiber production and maturation and significantly
also faster epithelial repair among lipogel-treated rats than in the other two groups(p<0.05).

Conclusion:

The results indicated the significant therapeutic effects of P. graveolens lipogelon burn
healing. The suitable physicochemical properties and the low lipogel production cost facilitate further
scale-up studies.
Nasal Caffeine Thermo-Sensitive In Situ Gel for Enhanced Cognition
after Sleep-Deprivation
Authors: Ma Shan , Li Liqin , Du Lina , Zhu Siqing , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Qi , Pang Lulu , Ma Jinqiu , Wang Chunqing , Zhang Shouguo , Jin Yiguang , Wang Xiu
Published: May 2022

Background:

Caffeine abundant in coffee has a strong excitation effect on the central nerve
system (CNS).

Methods:

To combat the adverse effects of sleep deprivation on physical and mental health, this article
designed a new nasal temperature-sensitive gel loaded with caffeine, whose effects of awakening and
improving cognition in sleep-deprived rats were evaluated.

Results:

It was found that the caffeine thermo-sensitive in situ gel (TSG) stayed in the nasal cavity for a
longer time and increased the contact time between the drugs and the nasal mucosa, which made it possible
for caffeine TSG to exert a lasting effect. Secondly, compared with sleep-deprived rats, those administrated
with caffeine TSG were more responsive in behavioral experiments. Moreover, the antipentobarbital
test proved that caffeine TSG could prolong the sleep latency and shorten the sleep time.
Furthermore, caffeine TSG could significantly restore the cognitive ability by ameliorating neuronal cell
injuries by upregulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.

Conclusion:

Generally, caffeine TSG could quickly exert the efficacy of enhancing cognition and wakefulness,
and overcome the drawbacks of frequent medications. It can potentially be used for the treatment
of psychiatric disorders, such as dementia, Parkinson and Alzheimer’s disease.
Graphite Oxide as a Catalyst for Dehydration of Alcohols
Authors: Xu Liang , Yan Peng , Zhao Guangzhou , An Pengsheng
Published: May 2022

Background:

The methods of dehydration of alcohols frequently suffer from the following
drawbacks: high reaction temperature, toxic catalysts, high catalyst loading, and difficulty to remove catalysts.
Therefore, the development of a new catalyst for the dehydration of alcohols is still of importance.

Methods:

Graphite oxide is used as a catalyst for dehydration of alcohols.

Results:

Graphite oxide is used as a catalyst for dehydrating tertiary and secondary alcohols to the corresponding
alkenes as well as dehydrating primary alcohols and diols to the corresponding ethers and cycloethers
in moderate to excellent conversion rates and good selectivity.

Conclusion:

In these reactions, GO prepared by the improved Hummers method showed high catalytic
activity. As an efficient catalyst, GO is easily available, cheap, weakly acidic with low toxicity, and well
tolerant to various functional groups.
Adsorption Properties and Quantum Molecular Descriptors of the Anticancer
Drug Cytophosphane on the Armchair Single-Walled Carbon
Nanotubes: A DFT Study
Authors: Felegari Zahra , Hamedani Shahla
Published: May 2022

In the current work, the adsorption of cytophosphane (cytophosphane is a chemotherapeutic drug and is used to treat several specific autoimmune diseases and malignant processes) on the (5,5) SWCNT was studied using density functional theory (DFT) calculations in terms of geometry, energy gap, charge transfer, molecular electrostatic potential surface, and density of state analysis. The behavior of the binding properties and the electronic structures revealed that the cytophosphane molecule could be adsorbed on the SWCNT by the adsorption energy of approximately -100.3 kcal mol-1. Also, it was found that the electronic properties of the SWCNT are very sensitive to the presence of cytophosphane molecules so that the energy gap of the nanotube is changed about 61% after the adsorption process. Based on calculated results, the SWCNT is expected to be suitable as a drug carrier for the delivery of cytophosphane drug.
Bioinformatic Screening of Compounds from Iranian Lamiaceae Family Members against SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Alibakhshi Abbas , Gharibi Shima , Ahangarzadeh Shahrzad , Yarian Fatemeh
Published: May 2022

Background:

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is still a major challenge worldwide. The disease is caused by binding the coronavirus to ACE2 receptors on lung cells, infecting the cells and triggering the onset of symptoms. The prevention of such a binding in which the virus is eventually unable to enter the cell could be a promising therapeutic approach.

Methods:

In this in silico study, 306 compounds of Lamiaceae family native in Iran (native Mints) were retrieved from several databases as 3D structures, and after that molecular docking and virtual screening, the compounds with inhibitory potential were selected in terms of free energy binding against the spike protein of the virus. The pharmacokinetic profile of selected compounds was evaluated, and by molecular dynamic simulation and MM/PBSA, four compounds were further assessed for binding affinities against the receptor-binding domain of the spike.

Results:

The results showed the Catechin gallate and Perovskone B from Stachys and Salvia genus generated a stronger binding affinity, and therefore could act as potential inhibitory compounds of RBD of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that some members of the Lamiaceae family could be employed to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 activity through interaction with spike protein and therefore could be used for further investigation in vitro and in vivo.
Design and Prediction of ADME/Tox Properties of Novel Magnolol Derivatives
as Anticancer Agents for NSCLC Using 3D-QSAR, Molecular Docking,
MOLCAD and MM-GBSA Studies
Authors: Daoui Ossama , Elkhattabi Souad , Chtita Samir
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

In this work, we used several molecular modeling techniques to design new
molecules for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods:

For this purpose, we applied 3D-QSAR, molecular docking, MOLCAD, ADMET, and
MMGBSA studies to a series of 51 natural derivatives of magnolol.

Results:

The developed models showed excellent statistical results (R² = 0.90; Q² = 0.672; R²pred = 0.86)
for CoMFA and (R² = 0.82; Q² = 0.58; R2
pred = 0.78) CoMSIA. The design of eleven new molecules was
based on predictions derived from the 3D-QSAR model contour maps, molecular docking and MolCAD
analyses. In silico drug-like and ADMET properties studies led to the selection of four new molecules
designed as potential agents for NSCLC therapy. Molecular docking and MM-GBSA simulations of proposed
structures with EGFR-TKD (PDB code: 1M17) showed that ligands X10 and 30 attained better
stability in the 1M17 protein pocket compared to the Erlotinib ligand used as a reference.

Conclusion:

Incorporating all the molecular modelling techniques used in this work is conducive to the
design of new molecules derived from the 3-(4-aminobipyridin-1-yl)methyl structure of magnolol, a candidate
for drug design for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Therefore, the molecular structures
(X10 and 30) can be proposed as a key to designing new drugs against NSCLC.
Systematic Review: Association of Pesticide Exposure and Child Wheeze
and Asthma
Authors: Gilden Robyn C. , Harris Ryan L. , Friedmann Erika J. , Han Myeunghee , Hackney Alisha J. , Olorunyemi Emmanuel , Spanier Adam J.
Published: May 2022

Background:

The prevalence of wheeze and asthma has risen over recent decades for all age groups, especially children. These disorders can lead to decreased quality of life, missed school, urgent care and emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and increased health care costs. En-vironmental exposures, including pesticide exposure, are likely a contributing factor to this in-creased prevalence.

Objective:

To evaluate the association of pesticide exposure with childhood wheeze and asthma.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review evaluating studies of pesticide exposure (measured objectively) and child respiratory outcomes. We searched PubMed, Embase (Elsevier), CINAHL (EBSCO), Scopus (Elsevier), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Wiley), and ClinicalTri-als.gov from 1988 - 2021. Main search keywords included “pesticides”, “insecticides”, “herbi-cides”, “respiratory”, “asthma” and “wheeze”.

Results:

Out of 5767 studies, 25 met the inclusion criteria; eight evaluated prenatal pesticide expo-sure (n=8407), twelve evaluated postnatal exposures (n= 50,488), and five evaluated pre-and post-natal exposures (n=20,919). Main pesticides investigated were dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) (14 studies) followed by organophosphates (7 studies). Primary methods of outcome as-sessment were questionnaire-based (84%), followed by spirometry (16%), registry data, and blood measures. Studies varied in the strength of evidence relating to study design and measures. Most studies (84%) reported a positive association of exposure with adverse child respiratory health.

Conclusion:

The studies suggest an association of pesticide exposure and childhood wheeze and asthma. The varying results and methods reinforce the need for more research and standardized ap-proaches to these studies to confirm the suggested association of pesticide exposure and childhood wheeze and asthma.
Persistent/Late Complications of COVID-19 in Affected Emergency Medical
Technicians: A Case Series and Brief Literature Review
Authors: Baratloo Alireza , Saberian Peyman , Pazooki Behshad , Shajari Zahra , Hasani-Sharamin Parisa , Jamshididana Mahnaz , Karimi Somayeh
Published: May 2022

Background:

The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of persistent/late compli-cations after recovery from the acute phase of COVID-19 in emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional case-series study performed during the last quarter of 2020 in Tehran, Iran. All EMTs who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 were eligible. The researcher contacted the EMTs via telephone to determine any complications following their recovery. Those who suffered from any complication were referred to an internal specialist physician for a detailed history and physical examination. Based on the physician’s opinion, some paraclinical or clinical evaluations were requested to be performed.

Results:

Four hundred thirty-one confirmed cases and two deaths due to this disease were registered among the Tehran EMS center’s EMTs during the study period. Two hundred thirty-eight EMTs were contacted, and 22.7% of them had at least one persistent/late complication following recovery of the acute phase of COVID-19; of whom, 28 EMTs were visited by an internist and completed the tests. The final participants mentioned seventy-five persistent/late complications. Only one EMT had a residual lesion among those who underwent lung CT scans. There were also some pathologi-cal findings in the echocardiographic examination and spirometry.

Conclusion:

Our study showed that persistent/late-onset complications could likely accompany by COVID-19.
A Systematic Review of Instruments Measuring the Division of Care
Responsibilities between Children with Type 1 Diabetes and their Parents
Authors: Aalders Jori , Nefs Giesje , Hartman Esther , A. Nguyen Linh , Winterdijk Per , van Mil Edgar , Aanstoot Henk-Jan , Pouwer Frans
Published: May 2022

Background:

The division of care responsibilities between parents and children with
type 1 diabetes, and an optimal transfer of responsibilities from parent to child over time are assumed
to be key for optimal diabetes outcomes during childhood and adolescence. However, an
overview of instruments assessing this division as well as their psychometric qualities is currently
lacking.

Objective:

The study aims to 1) identify all existing instruments, 2) evaluate their psychometric
properties, and 3) provide an overview of scoring methods.

Methods:

Pubmed and PsycINFO were searched using a priori-defined search string. Peerreviewed
studies in English using an instrument assessing the division of diabetes care responsibilities
between children (6-18 years) and parents were included. In total, 84 of 725 articles qualified,
covering 62 unique samples.

Results:

Thirteen questionnaires were identified. The Diabetes Family Responsibility Questionnaire
(DFRQ) was most frequently used across studies. Instructions, content and number of tasks,
response options, and scoring methods varied across questionnaires. Recent studies often adapted
questionnaires, contributing to the heterogeneity across measures. Overall, reporting and quality of
psychometric properties was suboptimal.

Conclusion:

The division of diabetes care responsibilities can be operationalized with various instruments,
each having its strengths and weaknesses but all with limited psychometric support. To
measure the division of diabetes care responsibilities more adequately, an updated version of the
popular DFRQ or a new scale needs to be developed and evaluated.
Traditional Use, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Ananas comosus
(L.) Merr.(Family Bromeliaceae): An Update
Authors: Kumar Virender , Dureja Harish , Garg Vandana
Published: May 2022

Background:

Ananas comosus belongs to the family Bromeliaceae and commonly known as pineapple, anannas and anannaasa.

Objective:

The present review gives detailed information about synonyms, geographical distribution, taxonomical classification, cultivation, pharmacognostical and phytochemical profile as well as about therapeutic potential of Ananas comosus.

Methods:

For the preparation of manuscript, all the information was collected from scientific engines and databases (Web of Science, Scifinder, Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, Taylor & Francis online) using different keywords.

Result:

Recent studies of A.comosus are based on traditional use, phytochemistry and pharmacology. The nutritional properties of the fruit are well known. The fruit contains various biological active phytoconstituents such as polyphenol compounds, volatile compound and carotenoids etc. which are therapeutically active. A.comosus is used for digestive issues, inflammation, in sea sickness and in a sore throat. Different studies on A.comosus have been conducted due to ethanopharmacological profile. It possesses antimalarial, antidiabetic, abortifacient, anticancer, antioxidant and antidiarrhoeal activity etc. Finally Industrial applications and ongoing clinical trials on pineapple are also summarized.

Conclusion:

This review would assist researchers in formulating a therapeutically active herbal remedy.
Rapid and Precise Discrimination between Pure and Adulterated
Commercial Indian Honey Brands using FTIR Spectroscopy and Principal
Component Analysis
Authors: Singh Bipin , Barman Sanmitra
Published: May 2022

Background:

Four leading commercial Indian honey brands were investigated using
FTIR spectroscopy and principal component analysis for rapid and accurate differentiation of
pure, mildly adulterated, and highly adulterated honey brand samples. We examined the ability
of PCA on second derivative of FTIR data to descriminate between the pure and adulterated
commercial honey brands.

Methods:

This study is the first to investigate commercial Indian honey brands using FTIR and
PCA. We show that the top two principal components could easily descriminate between the
pure and adulteraated honey brands.

Results:

Hence such methods can investigate adulterations in bulk commercial honey brand
samples where sophisticated instrumentations and facilities are not available.

Conclusion:

Thus, the potential of FTIR and PCA can be further explored for detecting the presence
of adulterations in bulk honey samples without much cost and effort.
Reversed Potts Shunt Outcome in Suprasystemic Pulmonary Arterial
Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mendel Brian , Christianto Christianto , Angellia Phoniex , Holiyono Indra , Prakoso Radityo , Siagian Sisca Natalia
Published: May 2022

Background:

Reversed Potts shunt has been a prospective approach to treat suprasystemic
pulmonary hypertension, particularly when medication treatment fails to reduce right ventricular
afterload.

Objective:

This meta-analysis aims to review the clinical, laboratory, and hemodynamic parameters
after a reversed Potts shunt in suprasystemic pulmonary hypertension patients.

Methods:

Six electronic databases were searched from the date of inception to August 2021, where
the obtained studies were evaluated according to the PRISMA statement. The effects of shunt creation
were evaluated by comparing preprocedural to postprocedural or follow-up parameters, expressed
as a mean difference of 99% confidence interval. Quality assessment was conducted using
the STROBE statement.

Results:

Seven studies suited the inclusion criteria which were included in this article. A reduction
in upper and lower limb oxygen saturation [Upper limb: St. Mean difference -0.55, 99% CI -1.25
to 0.15; P=0.04; I2=6%. Lower limb: St. Mean difference –4.45, 99% CI –7.37 to –1.52;
P<0.00001; I2=65%]. Reversed Potts shunt was shown to improve WHO functional class, 6-minute
walk distance, NTpro-BNP level, and hemodynamic parameters including tricuspid annular plane
systolic excursion, interventricular septal curvature, and end-diastolic right ventricle/left ventricle
ratio.

Conclusion:

Reversed Potts shunt cannot be said to be relatively safe, although it allows improvement
in the clinical and functional status in patients with suprasystemic PAH. Reversed Potts shunt
procedure may be the last resort for drug-resistant pulmonary hypertension as it is considered a
high-risk procedure performed on patients with extremely poor conditions.
A Review of Spectroscopic and Non-Spectroscopic Techniques for Diagnosing
Breast Cancer
Authors: Isabella S. Stella Jenifer , Sunitha K.A. , Arjunan Sridhar P. , Pesala Bala
Published: May 2022

Malignancy is one of the consequent driving explanations behind death worldwide, and it is assessed at 9.6 million in 2018. Around 1 out of 6 deaths are the direct result of the malignancy. Clinicians state, that age and breast density are two natural elements resulting in the danger of cancer. The mortality rate brought about by malignant growth in low and focus pay countries is, for the most part, around 70%. Imaging techniques play a vital role in detection, staging, and help in guiding treatment decisions. This review paper presents a comprehensive survey involving a literature study about the evolution and efficacy of various breast cancer detection techniques. This work studies the various procedures of imaging techniques mammograms, ultrasound, MRI, PET, CT, Terahertz Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, Optical coherence Tomography, Mass spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and Infrared Thermography. Since cancer is a complicated illness with diverse pathophysiology, numerous modifications of the fundamental detection approach employed in each of these modalities have been performed throughout the years to increase the detection efficiency. This paper covers basic preliminary result with FFPE breast cancer blocks of malignant and normal subjects using THz Techniques that lay as a proof of a concept to carry out further research.
Evaluation of CT and MRI Imaging Results of Radicular Cysts, Odontogenic
Keratocysts, and Dentigerous Cysts and their Contribution to the
Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Berberoğlu Hülya Koçak , Yalçin Başak Keskin , Aralaşmak Ayşe , Köseoğlu Banu Gürkan , Çakarer Sirmahan , Tekkesin Merva Soluk , Çarpar Eser , Kula Ozlem
Published: May 2022

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of the MRI and CT results to the differential
diagnosis of histopathologically different odontogenic cysts.

Background:

Odontogenic cysts are commonly seen in the jaw bone and their surgical operations have
an important place in the practice of maxillofacial surgery; treatment options for these cysts differ according
to their histopathology. Differential results that can be obtained from the radiological evaluations
of different cyst groups will allow the surgeon to plan a more accurate approach at the beginning
of the operation. In this study, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
results of different cyst groups were interpreted together with their histopathological diagnosis.

Method:

CT and MRI results of 17 patients aged between 19-61 were evaluated, whose histopathological
diagnosis consisted of 3 radicular cysts (RC), a total of 9 odontogenic keratocysts (OKC) of which 4
were inflamed, and a total of 5 dentigerous cysts (DC) of which one of them was inflammatory.

Result:

In the CT scan, all cysts showed lytic, a sclerotic surrounding, and showed MRI peripheral
enhancement, whereas solid nodular enhancement was only observed in OKCs. Edema and/or air in the
surrounding bone medulla was observed in the infected lesions. OKC was heterogeneous, whereas RC
and DC were more homogeneous. Diffusion restriction was observed to be frequent in OKCs. The
OKCs were ellipsoidal in appearance and were located parallel to the long axis of the bone, and their
dimensions were observed to be larger than the other cysts. OKCs may be accompanied by unerupted
teeth. Radicular cysts were located perpendicular to the long axis of the bone and were globular in appearance,
and their dimensions were smaller and more homogeneous compared to the OKCs. Dentigerous
cysts are also accompanied by an unerupted tooth, and their peripheral enhancement is minimal and
homogeneous. However, dentigerous cysts can be dense in content and smaller in size, and ellipsoidal
localization is more common than OKCs.

Conclusion:

In addition to classic panoramic radiography in the evaluation and differential diagnosis of
maxillary and mandibular lesions, CT and MRI evaluations can provide helpful information to the surgeon
and pathologist in making the diagnosis and may further help plan the operation.
Comparison of Chest CT and RT-PCR Assay for Indication of Disease
Course of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pneumonia
Authors: Zhang Yi-fan , Zhao Qiong
Published: May 2022

Background:

COVID-19 patients' courses vary in length, indicating a variable prognosis.
The disease duration revealed by different examination methods may differ.

Objective:

The study aims to compare the differences in the disease course of patients with COVID-19
by chest computed tomography (CT) and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)
assay and explore the factors that affect the course of the illness.

Methods:

106 patients confirmed with COVID-19 were enrolled and divided into two groups (age <60
years and age ≥60 years). The clinical characteristics of the two groups were analyzed. The intervals
from symptoms onset to initial positive time point (ISIP), symptoms onset to the initial negative time
point (ISIN), and initial positive to initial negative time point (IIPN) indicated by chest CT and RTPCR
assay were analyzed. Multiple regression analysis was performed to assess the correlations between
independent factors and the intervals.

Results:

Chest CT showed an earlier positive time point, a later negative time point, and a longer disease
duration than the RT-PCR assay (P<.001, respectively). Older patients over 60 years old showed a
later negative time point and a longer disease duration by chest CT than younger patients (P<.01 vs.
P<.05, respectively). The CT score and clinical grades of older patients were greater than those of
younger patients (P<.001, respectively). Age and clinical grades were significantly correlated with the
disease course shown by chest CT (P<.05, respectively), and CT score was positively correlated with
the illness course shown by chest CT and RT-PCR assay (P<.01, respectively).

Conclusion:

The disease course revealed by chest CT and RT-PCR assay was asynchronous. Chest CT
showed a 17-day longer period compared to the RT-PCR assay. Older patients had a longer duration
than younger ones. A prolonged course is predicted by increasing age, CT score, and clinical grades.
Application of Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound and Bosniak Classification
to the Diagnosis of Cystic Renal Masses
Authors: Yuan Xin-Chun , Huang Mei-Feng , Zhang Zhi , Xia Qing-Qing , Zhou Xi-Ling , Zhou Zhi-Yu
Published: May 2022

Background:

The Bosniak classification system based on contrast-enhanced computed tomography
(CECT) is commonly used for the differential diagnosis of cystic renal masses. Contrastenhanced
ultrasound (CEUS) is a relatively novel technique, which has gradually played an important
role in the diagnosis of cystic renal cell carcinoma (CRCC) due to its safety and lowest price.

Objective:

The aim of the study is to investigate the application value of CEUS and Bosniak classification
into the diagnosis of cystic renal masses.

Method:

32 cystic masses from January 2018 to December 2019 were selected. The images of conventional
ultrasound (US), CEUS and CECT from subjects confirmed by surgical pathology were retrospectively
analyzed. The Bosniak classification system of cystic renal masses was implemented using
CEUS and CECT, and the diagnostic ability was compared.

Results:

For the 32 cystic masses, postoperative pathology confirmed 11 cases of multilocular CRCC,
15 cases of clear cell carcinoma with hemorrhage, necrosis and cystic degeneration, 5 cases of renal
cysts, and 1 case of renal tuberculosis. The Bosniak classification based on CEUS was higher than that
based on CECT, and the difference was statistically significant (P = .024). The sensitivity, specificity,
positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of CEUS were comparable to CECT.
There was no significant difference observed in the diagnosis of CRCC (P >.05).

Conclusion:

CEUS combined with Bosniak classification greatly improves the diagnosis of CRCC.
CEUS shows a comparable diagnostic ability to CECT. In daily clinical routine, patients who require
multiple examinations and present contraindications for CECT can particularly benefit from CEUS.
Evaluation of Antioxidant, Mutagenicity, and Anti-mutagenicity Potential
of Astragalus gossypinus Fisch. Extracts
Authors: Ghasemian-Yadegari Javad , Mirzania Foroogh , Fard Ardali Javad Khalili , Nikbakht Mohammad Reza , Rashidipour Marzieh , Nouraie Hamze , Sikevandi Sepideh Jamshidi , Rad Mohammad Taghavi
Published: May 2022

Background:

Astragalus gossypinus Fisch. is one of the Astragalus (Leguminosae)
species that has been used in traditional medicine due to its phenomenal pharmacological and biological
activities.

Objective:

In this research, the mutagenicity, anti-mutagenicity, and antioxidant potential of two
different extracts of root (chloroform and ethyl acetate) and chloroform extract of aerial parts of
Astragalus gossypinus were investigated.

Methods:

Antioxidant property was expressed as the ability of each extract to scavenge the free
radicals like DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and mutagenicity and anti-mutagenicity were
evaluated with the Ames test using Salmonella typhimurium strain TA100.

Results:

All extracts exhibited antioxidant capacity. Among them, the ethyl acetate extract of the
root (IC50 = 289.29 μg/mL) was reported to be the best one, followed by the chloroform extract of
the root (IC50 = 327.2 μg/mL), probably due to a higher percentage of phenolic and flavonoid
compounds in these extracts. Chloroform extract of the root had the strongest anti-mutagenicity on
S. typhimurium strain TA100, with a potential anti-mutagenic index ranging from
90.4867±5.84227 % to 50.2950±1.37308 %. Moreover, all tested extracts have neither direct nor
indirect exerted mutagenic activity against this special strain of S. typhimurium. In the present
research, saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds are proposed to be antioxidant and antimutagenic
agents in all extracts.

Conclusion:

The results of this study showed that the potent antioxidant and anti-mutagenic activity
of A. gossypinus make it possible to use it as a natural antioxidant or bio-preservative in various
medicinal formulations and cancer prevention.
Sagacious Perceptive on Marburg Virus Foregrounding the Recent Findings:
A Critical Review
Authors: Baby Bilha , Rajendran Rajalakshmi , Nair Manju M. , Raghavan Roshni P.
Published: May 2022

Infectious diseases are defined as a group of diseases caused by any infecting microorganism which are highly potent to severely affect human life. The end can be varying from critical infection to mortality. Most of the infectious diseases are reported with a rapid rate of transmission. Marburg virus disease is a kind of infectious viral disease usually manifested as haemorrhagic fever. The latest reported case of Marburg virus disease confirmed by WHO was on 6th august 2021 in the south-western province of Guinea. Marburg virus disease exhibit similar manifestations to that of infection with Ebola virus. Though not widely spread to emerge as a pandemic, Marburg virus disease remains a serious threat to human life. This review emphasis on the novel current facts determined through various studies related to Marburg virus infection. From these promising theories, review tries to put forward the importance of various study conclusions which are likely to provide major impact on health sector in near future.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Aromatase/Sirtuin1 Interaction
and miRNA Expression in Human Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Budak Murat Timur , Kartal Yasemin , Tokat Unal Metin , Kelicen-Ugur Pelin , Yılmaz Serkan , Karahan Sevilay
Published: May 2022

Background:

Changes in activation/inhibition of Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and aromatase play an
important role in a plethora of diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) modulate multiple molecular pathways
and affect a substantial number of physiological and pathological processes.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate any possible interaction between aromatase and
SIRT1 in SH-SY5Y cells and to see how there is a connection between this interaction and miRNA expression,
if there is an interaction.

Methods:

In this study, cells were incubated in serum-deprived media for 6, 12, and 24 h. Aromatase
and SIRT1 expressions were evaluated by Western blot. The IC50 concentration of SIRT1 activator
(SRT1720), SIRT1 inhibitor (EX527), and aromatase inhibitors (letrozole and fadrozole) was determined
by the XTT method. Then, CYP19A1 and SIRT1 levels were evaluated in the presence of SIRT1
siRNA or IC50 values for each activator/inhibitor. Finally, CYP19A1, SIRT1 expression and miRNA target
gene were assessed with bioinformatic approaches.

Results:

Aromatase and SIRT1 protein levels were significantly elevated in the cells incubated at 24 h
in serum-deprived media (p ≤ 0.05). SIRT1 also positively regulated CYP19A1 in SH-SY5Y cells in
media with/without FBS. Serum deprivation depending on time course caused changes in the oxidant/
antioxidant system. While oxidative stress index tended to decrease in the absence of FBS at 24 h
compared to the control, it showed a significant decrease at 48 h in a serum-deprived manner (p ≤
0.001). As a result of bioinformatics analysis, we determined 3 miRNAs that could potentially regulate
SIRT1 and CYP19A1. hsa-miR-27a-3p and hsa-miR-181a-5p correlated in terms of their expressions at
24 h compared to 12 h, and there was a significant decrease in the expression of these miRNAs. On the
contrary, the expression of hsa-miR-30c-5p significantly increased at 24 h compared to 12 h.

Conclusion:

Considering the results, a direct link between aromatase and SIRT1 was observed in human
neuroblastoma cells. The identification of key miRNAs, hsa-miR-27a-3p, hsa-miR-30c-5p, and
hsa-miR-181a-5p targeting both aromatase and SIRT1, provides an approach with novel insights on
neurology-associated diseases.
Updates in the Analytical Isolation of Indian Propolis Chemical Constituents and Their Role in Dental Pharmacology - A Review
Authors: Godhi Brinda Suhas , Beeraka Narasimha M. , Buddi Jai Shankar H. Putta , Mahadevaiah Sumana , Madhunapantula SubbaRao V.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Natural products are rapidly gaining popularity in the medical sector for curing several diseases. The biomedical application of natural products in treating a wide range of systemic diseases, including oral diseases, has been reported. Previous studies delineated the importance of propolis of foreign origin as a significant pharmacological agent as antimicrobial, antifungal, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory. For instance, prominent clinical reports concluded an enhanced quality of life with the use of propolis in cancer patients with mucositis, whereas an adverse effect was invoked after radiotherapy or chemotherapy. These reports delineated its efficacy as a safe and therapeutic natural product modality in cancer patients to prevent mucositis. However, there are no reports to delineate whether the isolated chemical extracts or constitutions of Indian propolis can exhibit disease curing efficacy against several systemic and oral microbial diseases.

Objective:

The current review emphasized the origin, and properties of Indian propolis and the diverse bio-pharmacological applications of its different solvent extracts.

Material and Methods:

Studies on Indian propolis, its “phyto-constituents,” “pharmacology,” in vitro activity on “oral pathogens”, and its application in dentistry searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases up to December 2020.

Results:

The search identified 72 records; 21 full-text articles which met the eligibility criteria were assessed and studied.

Conclusion:

The antimicrobial efficacy of this “nontoxic” resinous material in various bio dental pharmacologies with recent clinical and preclinical reports was delineated, which benefits medical doctors, dentists, and researchers to execute further research.
The Computational Analysis of Single Nucleotide Associated with MicroRNA
Affecting Hepatitis B Infection
Authors: Nazarnezhad Mirza Ali , Barazesh Mahdi , Kavousipour Soudabeh , Mohammadi Shiva , Eftekhar Ebrahim , Jalili Sajad
Published: May 2022

Background:

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a pivotal role in Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection
and its complications by targeting the cellular transcription factors required for gene expression
or directly binding to HBV transcripts. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA
genes affect their expression and the regulation of target genes, clinical course, diagnosis, and therapeutic
interventions of HBV infection.

Methods:

Computational assessment and cataloging of miRNA gene polymorphisms targeting
mRNA transcripts straightly or indirectly through the regulation of hepatitis B infection by annotating
the functional impact of SNPs on mRNA-miRNA and miRNA-RBS (miRNA binding sites) interaction
were screened by applying various universally available datasets such as the miRNA
SNP3.0 software.

Results:

2987 SNPs were detected in 139 miRNAs affecting hepatitis B infection. Among them,
313 SNPs were predicted to have a significant role in the progression of hepatitis B infection. The
computational analysis also revealed that 45 out of the 313 SNPs were located in the seed region
and were more important than others. Has-miR-139-3p had the largest number of SNPs in the seed
region (n=6). On the other hand, proteoglycans in cancer, adherens junction, lysine degradation, NFkappa
B signaling cascade, ECM-receptor binding, viral carcinogenesis, fatty acid metabolism,
TGF-beta signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway, immune evasion related pathways, and fatty
acid biosynthesis were the most important pathways affected by these 139 miRNAs.

Conclusion:

The results revealed 45 SNPs in the seed region of 25 miRNAs as the catalog in miRNA
genes that regulated the hepatitis B infection. The results also showed the most important pathways
regulated by these miRNAs that can be targeted for therapeutic purposes.
Comprehensive Review of Ethnopharmacological and Phytochemical Aspects
of Nutraceuticals in Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Patel Samir , Vyas Niraj , Patel Alkesh , Shah Umang , Raval Manan , Patel Mehul , Patel Archita
Published: May 2022

Ageing comes with degeneration in many biological activities like impairment of cognition, intelligence, attention, and memory. The decline in all those mental capabilities would be due to the abnormal changes in neuronal architecture with increasing age, chronic oxidative stress and inflammatory state of the tissue, nutritional deficiency. Nootropics or smart drugs enhance memory, attention, creativity, and cognitive performance by affecting the synthesis and receptor binding of neurotransmitters in the brain, especially dopamine, serotonin, gamma-aminobutyric acid, glutamate, and acetylcholine. Nootropics have shown their positive effects in parkinson's, autism, alzheimer's, huntington's disorders, where impaired memory is the primary concern. Synthetic class of nootropics has limitations and reported exacerbation of other brain disorders (off label effects) or therapeutic failure in some instances. Nutraceuticals are dietary derived vitamins, minerals, herbal products, proteins, marine products, and probiotics. The health benefits derived from Nutraceuticals are increasing brain blood flow, reducing inflammation in nervous tissues, detoxifying toxins from the brain, balancing neurotransmitter turnover rate, correcting neuronal and receptor damages and facilitating synaptic transmission, good antioxidant properties and power of improving neuroplasticity of the brain that combat neurodegeneration. The demands for effective nootropics will remain high as the number of cases are increased tremendously.
Assessment of the Impact of Herbal Drugs Used in Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Preclinical Review
Authors: Awasthi Himani , Sharma Maandvi , Srivastava Dipti , Fatima Zeeshan , Srivastava Vivek
Published: May 2022

The use of herbal drugs may offer great potential opportunities in preventing and controlling neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease. Herbal drugs contain multiple pharmacologically active constituents. The relative amounts and nature of these constituents vary due to diverse factors, such as plant source and plant parts, extraction methods, local environmental conditions, storage conditions, adulterations, and accidental or intentional contamination. After administration, they are put through the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the same as modern medicines. When handled by the body, they can show a combined effect and interact with modern drugs due to various factors, including similar transport protein interaction, metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzyme, and different transporter mechanisms. Herbal medicine can either induce or inhibit CYP450 enzymes. When herbs are combined with the drugs, either they mimic or oppose the effect of drugs. Many studies worldwide indicate the favorable properties of plant extracts or their bioactive compounds against neurodegenerative disorders, but several clinical concerns have appeared regarding the use of these combinations, which could be due to lack of evidence and scientific support for their effectiveness and safety of the patient.
Ethnomedicinal and Ethnobotanical Investigations and Documentation of Plants Used by Traditional Healers of Eastern India
Authors: Panda Alok Kumar , Woldeamanel Melaku Masresha , Senapati Soumyaranjan , Mohapatra Shibani , Subudhi Hatanath , Rath Prasanta
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

This study is an effort to document extensively and systematically the ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal knowledge in the four districts (Puri, Cuttack, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj) of Odisha in Eastern India. It provides new insights into the rich ethnomedicinal knowledge and plants biodiversity in these four districts.

Methods:

The method of convenience sampling was conducted to get the ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal knowledge of the healers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the information got was quantified and documented with the aid of various databases. Eleven traditional healers endowed information on their traditional medicinal knowledge. 74 plant species belonging to 44 botanical families are documented and among these 44 botanical families, five (Rutaceae, Malvaceae, Astaraceae, Annonaceae, and Euphorbiaceae) are mostly used by the healers. The healers mainly use leaves and roots in the medicine's preparation.

Results:

Twenty-five ailments are treated by these traditional healers, which are majorly dominated by dermatological treatments. The pharmacological mining of these 74 plants revealed that a few pharmacological and biological activities of each medicinal plant had been studied. Our study revealed that these four districts of Odisha have a rich biodiversity of medicinal plants.

Conclusion:

Promoting the plantation of some of these species can enhance the income of the traditional healers of these districts and simultaneously make the exploitation of these plant species sustainable. We also found that the pharmacological and biological activities of many plant species are yet to be explored.
Research on Turbulent Drag Reduction of Surfactant-Polymer
Mixed Solution Using Flow Visualization Technique
Authors: Zheng Lehua , Li Entian , Liu Yang , Fan Liutong , Zhao Shushi
Published: May 2022

Objective:

To explore the drag reduction effect of surfactant-polymer composite
system in a turbulent flow.

Methods:

The turbulent drag reduction experiment of the one-component solution and the
composite solution was carried out in a rectangular pipeline platform, respectively. Moreover,
Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) was utilized to measure the turbulent flow field of
the drag-reducing flow.

Results:

Experimental results show that the composite drag reduction system has a drag
reduction gain effect in comparison with the one-component surfactant or polymer solution.
Especially in the destroyed drag reduction zone, the composite drag reduction system
has a strong shear resistance. When Polyacrylamide (PAM) is added, the Reynolds
drag reduction range of Cetyltrimethylammonium Chloride (CTAC) solution is broadened
and the drag reduction gain efficiency reaches 46%, which will provide favorable conditions
for oil transportation and other industries.

Conclusion:

Compared with a one-component CTAC solution, the mean velocity distribution
of the composite solution moves up in the logarithmic-law layer, the velocity fluctuation
peaks of the streamwise direction shift away from the inner wall of pipe, and the
inhibition degree of the normal velocity fluctuation increases with the augment of PAM
concentration. In contrast with water, the Reynolds shear stress of one-component CTAC
solution and composite solution is reduced significantly, and the vortex structures in the
region near the wall are suppressed dramatically with the decrease of vorticity intensity.
Evaluación de diferentes combinaciones de polímeros en la microencapsulación de licopenos procedentes de residuos de tomate de árbol (Solanum betaceum).
Authors: Pazmiño Damaris Abigail , Fernández Danae , López Orestes Dario , Iraizoz Antonio
Published: May 2022

El consumo de tomate de árbol en el Ecuador es muy amplio a lo largo de las diferentes zonas, es decir, tiene una gran demanda, a su vez no es aprovechado en su totalidad generando gran cantidad de residuos orgánicos. Mediante la microencapsulación se pueden elaborar productos derivados de los principios activos que se generan de esta fruta. En este trabajo se extrajeron y concentraron carotenoides de la piel de Solanum betaceum. Además, se microencapsuló los principios activos contenidos en el extracto con polímeros (goma arábiga y maltodextrina) en una concentración del 35 y 40 %. Es necesario controlar la temperatura de microencapsulación para evitar la degradación del material de interés.

Es importante determinar la actividad que presentan dichos metabolitos al ser microencapsulados, se evaluó la actividad antioxidante utilizando un método colorimétrico cuantitativo llamado DPPH. Por otro lado, se usó un modelo in vivo con Saccharomyces cerevisiae en el cual se midió la actividad antioxidante considerandondo de la curva de crecimiento del microorganismo en cuestión sometiéndolo a diferentes factores, uno de ellos el crecimiento normal sin agentes externos, en los dos siguientes se emplearon concentraciones de agentes oxidantes, para simular estrés alto y bajo con hipoclorito de sodio y peróxido de hidrógeno.

Palabras clave: Carotenoides, extracción, secado por aspersión, actividad antioxidante, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, razón de crecimiento.