bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sanding and Pruning Differentially Impact Canopy Characteristics, Yield, and Economic Returns in Cranberry
Authors: Suhayda Brett , DeMoranville Carolyn J. , Sandler Hilary A. , Autio Wesley R. , Vanden Heuvel Justine E.
Published: August 2023

Sanding and pruning are two practices used in the cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) industry for vine management and yield stimulation. This study compared varying levels of sanding and pruning on vine canopy characteristics, yield, and economic returns for two consecutive growing seasons. Each practice was applied in Apr. 2006 at four levels. Sand was applied directly onto the vines at four depths: control (0 cm), light (1.5 cm), moderate (3.0 cm), or heavy (4.5 cm); pruning was conducted at four severities with a commercial pruner: control (not pruned), light (one pass with the pruner), moderate (two passes), and heavy (three passes). Pruning levels had no effect on upright density over the two seasons, but the heavy sanding treatment decreased the number of uprights per unit area. For the first season only, light penetration to soil level increased linearly as severity increased for pruning and sanding. The number of reproductive uprights relative to total uprights decreased in the first year as severity increased for both practices. This effect continued in the second year for sanding treatments. Cumulative yield and net returns were higher in light severity treatments compared to those in the moderate and heavy treatments. Moderate and heavy sanding treatments were associated with lower yields and net returns than those for the untreated controls.
Strawberry Cultivar Injury After Two Contrasting Minnesota Winters
Authors: Yao Shengrui , Luby James J. , Wildung David K.
Published: August 2023

As part of our hardy strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) breeding program, winter hardiness of 15 strawberry cultivars was evaluated in the field after Winter 2005–2006 and a test Winter 2006–2007 with no snow cover at Grand Rapids, MN. After the snow-covered Winter 2005–2006, plant stand (percent leaf coverage for the designated area for each plot) increased for all cultivars in the mulched treatment and some cultivars in the unmulched treatment with slight decreases only for several cultivars in the unmulched treatment. However, after Winter 2006–2007, the plant stands of all cultivars drastically decreased in both mulched and unmulched treatments. ‘Clancy’, ‘Evangeline’, and ‘L'Amour’ were the three most sensitive cultivars among the 15 cultivars tested. ‘Kent’, ‘Mesabi™’, ‘Cavendish’, and ‘Brunswick’ were the highest yielding cultivars for both 2006 and 2007 in the mulched treatment. In the unmulched treatment, ‘Brunswick’, ‘Mesabi™ ’, ‘Cavendish’, ‘Sable’, and ‘Kent’ were the top yielding cultivars after Winter 2006–2007. During Winter 2005–2006, with 20 to 30 cm snow cover throughout the season, the 5- and 10-cm soil temperatures remained constant at ≈30 to 31.5 °F in both mulched and unmulched treatments. In contrast, during Winter 2006–2007, there were 16 and 24 days (consecutive) in February below 18 °F at 5-cm soil depths for mulched and unmulched treatments, respectively, which probably led to the severe winter damage. Although straw mulch afforded the plants some protection, snow cover is critical to the survival of strawberries in northern Minnesota and other areas with similar weather conditions.
Effects of Bifenthrin on Mycorrhizal Colonization and Growth of Corn
Authors: Corkidi Lea , Bohn Jeff , Evans Mike
Published: August 2023

The insecticide bifenthrin is a synthetic pyrethroid required by regulation for the production of nursery crops to suppress the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) in Orange and Riverside counties in California. We conducted a greenhouse experiment to analyze the effects of different rates of bifenthrin on the growth and mycorrhizal colonization of ‘Silver Queen’ corn (Zea mays) inoculated with VAM 80®, a mycorrhizal inoculum with spores, hyphae, and root pieces colonized by Glomus spp., used to inoculate California native plants in containers. Corn was used because it is the standard indicator plant used for mycorrhizal inoculum potential assays and it is a good host for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi propagation. The application of bifenthrin had no detrimental effects on mycorrhizal colonization of corn. There were no significant differences in the root length colonized by arbuscules, vesicles, or in the total percentage of mycorrhizal colonization obtained in the plants grown with the different bifenthrin rates 6 weeks after transplanting. However, there were significant interactions on the effects of bifenthrin and mycorrhizal colonization on plant growth. The addition of 12, 15, and 25 ppm of bifenthrin reduced corn biomass of nonmycorrhizal plants, but had no effect on the growth of mycorrhizal plants. There were no significant differences between the mycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal plants grown with 0, 10, and 12 ppm of bifenthrin. In contrast, inoculation with VAM 80® increased the shoot dry weight of plants grown with 15 and 25 ppm of bifenthrin. This study showed that mycorrhizal colonization can be helpful to overcome some of the negative effects of bifenthrin on the growth of corn.
Integrating Horticulture Biology and Environmental Coastal Issues into the Middle School Science Curriculum
Authors: Karsh Kathryn , Bush Edward , Hinson Janice , Blanchard Pamela
Published: August 2023

Encouraging students to become better stewards of the environment and to be more educated in science content knowledge is an important goal of today's educational leaders. Eight lessons were created to aid an established stewardship program (Coastal Roots) in introducing hands-on activities to middle school children in southern Louisiana. Students were tested on science content in the lessons using a pre-test, eight multiple choice quizzes (each focusing on a particular lesson), and a post-test. The “children's attitudes toward the environment scale” test was administered to evaluate environmental awareness changes in the treatment and control group students. Students who received the horticulture lessons improved their post-test scores by 11.4 points (P ≤ 0.05) in the first year and 25.07 points (P ≤ 0.0001) in the second year of the study. Significant increases in individual lessons were found both years. In the second year, students who received the lessons were more aware of their role in the environment than those who did not receive the additional lessons (P ≤ 0.01). The addition of horticulture lessons to the middle school curriculum enhanced student knowledge and stewardship of the environment.
Concerning tetrahedrites: How much to lump and how far to split?
Authors: Johnson Neil E.
Published: August 2023

Currently, there are two related but distinct approaches to the classification of minerals. The traditional time-independent classification uses rules specified by the IMA-CNMNC that can carefully split mineral species but may elide valuable information about their formation. In contrast, an emerging time-dependent classification appears to be able to add to our knowledge about planetary evolution yet may lump minerals into broadly defined kinds even if important distinctions should be made. An examination of the tetrahedrite group provides valuable insights on both approaches. As newly redefined by Biagioni et al. (2020), the generalized tetrahedrite formula [A6(B4C2)D4Y12Z1] has six sites that can accommodate substitutions, and a systematic splitting of all possibilities could lead to more than 200 unique species. In contrast, applying guidelines for lumping, largely as suggested by Hazen et al. (2022), could lead to a single kind. Deciding how much to lump and how far to split may ultimately depend on the intentions of the observer.
Factors affecting organizational intention to adopt forensic accounting practices: A case of Jordan
Authors: Habis Alrawashedh Nahed
Published: August 2023

Lack of effective internal control, subpar financial reporting, and inefficient audits have all harmed an organization’s ability to operate efficiently. Organizations are now under pressure to enhance their auditing procedures in order to stop and catch fraud. Forensic accounting techniques have gained attention in this direction as a fraud identification and prevention tool. This study aims to examine the factors that affect an organization’s intention to adopt forensic accounting practices. The analysis is based on primary data and uses a sample of 273 employees from listed firms in Jordan to examine this phenomenon. Specifically, the study used correlation and regression analysis to investigate whether coercive, mimetic, and normative pressures determine organizations’ intentions to use forensic accounting practices. The results confirm a significant positive relationship between coercive, mimetic, and normative pressure and the organizations’ intentions to use forensic accounting practices among Jordanian firms. These results highlight the importance of management consultants and training of the employees for appropriate fraud risk management.
Tanmiyah Waqf al-Manāfi min Ajl al-Istiqlāliyah fī Majāli al-Iqtiṣād: Dirāsah fī Ma’had Tazakkā al-‘Aṣrī
Authors: Jamal Mulyono , Sirajulhuda Mohammad Hanief , Saleh Muhammad Aunurrochim Mas'ad , Zahro' Khurun'in
Published: August 2023

The excellent potential of benefit waqf has not been fully realized since nāẓir or the community failed to develop a strategy and did not innovate enough on the advantages of waqf and its administration. One of the successful principals in administering benefits waqf is the Tazakka Modern Boarding School with its innovation and programs on endowment benefits. This study intends to identify the benefit waqf development approach for Tazakka Modern Boarding School for economic independence. With a descriptive strategy, this study employs a qualitative methodology. The results of this study demonstrate that the development of benefit waqf in Tazakka is advantageous for economic independence with three distinct benefit waqf categories. So, for future researchers to be able to discuss professional nāẓir with good management and strategy, to maximize the potential and role of beneficial waqf in improving the economy and people's welfare.
Review of shock wave pressure reconstruction methods in explosion field
Authors: Wang Liangquan , Kong Deren , Shang Fei
Published: August 2023

Explosion shock wave pressure is one of the main damage parameters produced in the process of ammunition explosion, and it is also an important technical index to evaluate the damage power of ammunition. However, in the actual testing process, only a limited amount of shockwave pressure data at specific measuring points can be obtained, which cannot accurately reflect the distribution laws of the shockwave pressure propagation after the ammunition explosion. Therefore, it is particularly important to conduct reconstruction of the shockwave pressure field distribution laws based on limited measuring point data. This paper reviews the research work and related achievements obtained by researchers at home and abroad on the reconstruction of shockwave pressure distribution laws in explosion fields. The paper also elucidates the relevant application of computer tomography imaging techniques, shockwave propagation attenuation model reconstruction, and various interpolation algorithms in the reconstruction process of the shockwave pressure field. Given the current research situation both domestically and internationally, we have pinpointed the major issues that still exist in the current stage of research and proposed the key areas of focus that need attention in future research.
The Effect of Preharvest Salicylic Acid Treatment on Quality Characteristics of Fresh Thyme (Origanum onites L.) During Cold Storage
Authors: AKYÜZ Serhat , KOYUNCU Mehmet Ali
Published: August 2023

The effect of preharvest salicylic acid (SA) treatments on some oil quality and characteristics of fresh thyme (Origanum onites L.) during storage were investigated. The thyme plants were grouped in three blocks for each SA treatment in an orchard. The first group of plants was treated with 1.5 mM SA 20 days before the bloom stage. The second and third group thymes were treated with 1.5 mM SA and only tap water (control), respectively, 10 days before full bloom. The thyme plants harvested at the full bloom stage were transported immediately to the laboratory. The thyme samples were placed in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) bags and were stored at 1°C and 90 ± 3% relative humidity (RH) for 25 days. Weight loss, leaf color, respiration rate, gas composition in MAP, ethylene production, essential oil and carvacrol content, and sensory quality of thymes were determined during cold storage. SA-treated thymes gave better visual quality, respiration rate, carvacrol content, and ethylene production than the control. As a result, it was determined that preharvest SA treatment could be a promising tool for delaying quality losses in thyme during storage in MAP.
Integrated spatial and temporal variability of the system water use efficiency in a lower Baro River watershed, Ethiopia
Authors: Befikadu Fiseha , Shetty Amba , Fufa Fekadu
Published: August 2023

The Baro Akobo River is representative of lower Baro watersheds with lost soils. Under eight landscapes, the geospatial and temporal variability of system water use efficiency (sWUE) were examined in a total area of 20,325 km2. This study used GIS, RS, Cropwat8.0, and EasyFit software. The anticipated irrigation requirement for the selected crop's driest five months of May, February, March, January, and April was 1, 0.9, 0.78, 0.78, and 0.34 l/s/h, respectively. The sub-catchment had maximum critical test values of σ = 12.6, μ = 11.9, and γ = 0, while Sor Metu showed the smallest value of 0.80, 1.75, and −0.03. Across the watershed, the sWUE varies with runoff, with a coefficient of variation of 71%. The overall accuracy of the land cover change was 81%, the Landsat 8 images of the soil-adjusted vegetation index showed a maximum value of 0.87 and a minimum of −1.5. The normalized vegetation index ranged from a maximum of 0.58 to a minimum of −1. By 2050, the sWUE will be 10% lower temporally, but its spatial variability will be 25% higher. Therefore, soil infiltration and water storage improve, which decreases runoff and the water lost by ET and raises sWUE.
Bridging the data gap: using remote sensing and open-access data for assessing sustainable groundwater use in Kumasi, Ghana
Authors: Potter Estela Fernandes , Monney Isaac , Rutten Martine
Published: August 2023

Groundwater use has significantly increased in the rapidly urbanising city of Kumasi, Ghana. But there is a lack of understanding of whether the groundwater system can sustain the growing demand in the future amidst climate change and rapid urbanisation. Using remote sensing datasets and a water balance approach, this study estimated the groundwater recharge and assessed how urbanisation has affected its groundwater sustainability. Sustainability is investigated by comparing multi-annual groundwater withdrawals to long-term average annual replenishment. Results show that while groundwater recharge has decreased by 80% from 1986 to 2020, mainly due to substantial (63%) loss of permeable land, groundwater consumption has seen a six-fold increase. Groundwater consumption in 2020 exceeded the long-term average groundwater recharge by 2.2Mm3, suggesting that the current groundwater use trends are unsustainable for future groundwater availability. Under a ‘business-as-usual’ scenario, a four-fold increase in groundwater consumption is predicted by 2050 while climate change and land-cover changes may reduce groundwater recharge by 10% and 55% respectively. Practical measures such as promoting artificial groundwater replenishment approaches, adopting low-impact development and instituting demand management measures must be implemented in the Metropolis. This should be informed by further studies to ascertain the exact condition of the groundwater.
Regional water demand forecasting based on shared socio-economic pathways in the Zhanghe River Basin
Authors: Wang Xiaoxu , Yu Mengling , Sun Dongying , Liu Gang
Published: August 2023

Based on the framework of shared socio-economic pathways, this study predicts future population and economic conditions of the Zhanghe River Basin and combines with the water quota to predict future water demand. First, the localization parameter system is constructed. Furthermore, the water demand is calculated. The results show that (1) under regional competitive pathway, the population is the largest, while under uneven pathway, the population is the smallest. The largest economic forecast is obtained under fossil fuel development pathway, while the smallest economic forecast is obtained under regional competitive pathway. (2) The results for domestic and economic water use in the basin show that the annual water demand shows an increasing trend. Fossil fuel development pathway is the scenario with the highest socio-economic water demand, while regional competitive pathway is the scenario with the least. (3) The Zhanghe River Basin faces a high risk of water resource shortage in the future. Even under the situation of minimum socio-economic water demand, the total water demand is difficult to meet fully. The forecasting framework established in this paper has high application value and can provide a reference for water demand forecasting and prospective water demand management in river basins.
Parental Perceptions of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Services in the UAE
Authors: Alshuaibat Suha , Soubra Karina , Alhashmi Deena , Mohamed Fathumo , Moqbel Sarah , Almarzooqi Saeeda , Alloub Zeinab , Willis Sandra , Albanna Ammar
Published: August 2023

Objective:

This qualitative study explored parental perceptions of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Methods:

Forty-one parents of children with ASD participated in five focus groups to explore their experiences with ASD services in the UAE. These moderated focus groups were recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results:

The following primary themes and subthemes were identified: (a) lack of awareness and support, (b) challenges in accessibility and affordability, (c) inconsistent quality of therapeutic services, and (d) Lack of educational inclusion and support.

Conclusion:

Findings of this study support the need for creating a comprehensive system of care for ASD that is coordinated, is person centered, and promotes continuity of care that improves the outcomes for those “navigating” the often-fragmented system of ASD in the UAE.
Lymphocyte Expression of Intracellular Cytokines and Heat Shock Proteins in
Peripheral Blood of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Mahmoud Fadia , Haines David D. , Ibrahim Basel , Arifhodzic Nermina
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

The present study evaluates expression by activated CD4+ T helper1 (Th1) and T
helper 2 (Th2) T lymphocytes of pro-inflammatory cytokines and cytoprotective heat shock proteins (HSPs) in
peripheral blood of atopic dermatitis (AD) patients.

Methods:

This research represents preliminary work by the authors to identify correlates between critical immune
parameters with the potential to serve as guidelines for the development of pharmacological strategies for
altering these factors to promote the restoration of healthy immune profiles in persons afflicted with major atopic
diseases. The major experimental strategy used in this research assessed immune activation by peripheral
blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 21 AD patients and 12 age- and gender-matched healthy control subjects
cultured with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and ionomycin (PMA/I), which are mutagenic immune activators,
to induce expression of pro-inflammatory biomarkers in CD4+ T cells differentiated to express Th1 or
Th2 cytokines and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) intracellularly (i). Evaluations were performed using an FC500
Beckman-Coulter flow cytometer. Elevated CD4+ T cell expression of cytokines, interleukin-4 (iIL-4), interleukin-
5 (iIL-5), interleukin-10 (iIL-10), interferon-gamma (iIFN-g), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (iTNF-α),
were observed.

Results:

Additionally, the heat shock proteins (HSP) iHO-1 and iHSP-70 were evaluated in cells from the blood
of AD patients versus the control subjects. The present study demonstrated an elevated expression of both Th1
and Th2-associated cytokines in CD4+ T cells of AD patients, with a significant direct correlation between Th1
and Th2 cell populations, thus yielding insight into the immune features of the AD-associated systemic inflammatory
profile.

Conclusion:

Finally, the observed increased iHO-1 and iHSP-70 expressions likely represent adaptive physiologic
countermeasures to AD-associated inflammatory tissue damage, suggesting that HSP inducers are promising
candidates for the management of atopic disorders.
NAD+ Protects against Hyperlipidemia-induced Kidney Injury in
Apolipoprotein E-deficient Mice
Authors: Pei Zuowei , Li Yu , Yao Wei , Sun Feiyi , Pan Xiaofang
Published: August 2023

Background:

Hyperlipidemia is an independent risk factor for kidney injury. Several studies have shown that nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an important coenzyme involved in normal body metabolism. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of NAD+ against hyperlipidemia-induced kidney injury in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice.

Methods:

Twenty-five eight-week-old male ApoE-/- mice were randomly assigned into four groups: normal diet (ND), ND supplemented with NAD+ (ND+NAD+), high-fat diet (HFD), and HFD supplemented with NAD+ (HFD+NAD+). The mice were subjected to their respective diets for a duration of 16 weeks. Blood samples were obtained from the inferior vena cava, collected in serum tubes, and stored at -80 °C until use. Kidney tissues were fixed in 10% formalin and then embedded in paraffin for histological evaluation. The remainder of the kidney tissues was snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen for Western blot analysis.

Results:

Metabolic parameters (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen) were significantly higher in the HFD group compared to the other groups. Histological analysis revealed prominent pathological manifestations in the kidneys of the HFD group. The HFD+NAD+ group showed increased levels of oxidative stress markers (NRF2 and SOD2) and decreased levels of NOX4 compared to the HFD group. Furthermore, the HFD group exhibited higher levels of TGF-β, Smad3, Collagen I, Collagen III, Bax, and Bak compared to the other groups. NAD+ supplementation in the HFD+NAD+ group significantly increased the levels of SIRT3, HO-1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL compared to the HFD group. Additionally, NF-κB protein expression was higher in the HFD group than in the HFD+NAD+ group.

Conclusion:

These findings demonstrated that NAD+ may hold potential as a clinical treatment for kidney injury caused by hyperlipidemia.
Acute Toxicity, Anti-diabetic, and Anti-cancerous Potential of Trillium
Govanianum-conjugated Silver Nanoparticles in Balb/c Mice
Authors: Gulzar Nazia , Andleeb Saiqa , Raza Abida , Ali Shaukat , Liaqat Iram , Raja Sadaf Azad , Ali Nazish Mazhar , Khan Rida , Awan Uzma Azeem
Published: August 2023

Background:

The current study aimed to develop an economic plant-based therapeutic
agent to improve the treatment strategies for diseases at the nano-scale because Cancer and Diabetes
mellitus are major concerns in developing countries. Therefore, in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic
and anti-cancerous activities of Trillium govanianum conjugated silver nanoparticles were
assessed.

Methods:

In the current study synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Trillium govanianum and
characterization were done using a scanning electron microscope, UV-visible spectrophotometer,
and FTIR analysis. The in vitro and in vivo anti-diabetic and anti-cancerous potential (200 mg/kg
and 400 mg/kg) were carried out.

Results:

It was discovered that Balb/c mice did not show any major alterations during observation
of acute oral toxicity when administered orally both TGaqu (1000 mg/kg) and TGAgNPs (1000
mg/kg), and results revealed that 1000 mg/kg is not lethal dose as did not find any abnormalities in
epidermal and dermal layers when exposed to TGAgNPs. In vitro studies showed that TGAgNPs
could not only inhibit alpha-glucosidase and protein kinases but were also potent against the brine
shrimp. Though, a significant reduction in blood glucose levels and significant anti-cancerous
effects was recorded when alloxan-treated and CCl4-induced mice were treated with TGAgNPs
and TGaqu.

Conclusion:

Both in vivo and in vitro studies revealed that TGaqu and TGAgNPs are not toxic at
200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg doses and possess strong anti-diabetic and anti-cancerous
effects due to the presence of phyto-constituents. Further, suggesting that green synthesized silver
nanoparticles could be used in pharmaceutical industries to develop potent therapeutic agents.
Dysprosium-containing Cobalt Sulfide Nanoparticles as Anticancer Drug
Carriers
Authors: Varalakshmi Govindaraj Sri , Pawar Charan Singh , Manikantan Varnitha , Pillai Archana Sumohan , Alexander Aleyamma , Akash Bose Allben , Prasad N. Rajendra , Enoch Israel V. M. V.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Among various materials designed for anticancer drug transport, sulfide nanoparticles
are uniquely intriguing owing to their spectral characteristics. Exploration of newer nanoscale
copper sulfide particles with dysprosium doping is reported herein. It leads to a change in the physicochemical
properties of the sulfide nanoparticles and hence the difference in drug release and cytotoxicity.

Objective:

We intend to purport the suitably engineered cobalt sulfide and dysprosium-doped cobalt
sulfide nanoparticles that are magnetic and NIR-absorbing, as drug delivery vehicles. The drug loading
and release are based on the supramolecular drug complex formation on the surface of the nanoparticles.

Method:

The nanomaterials are synthesized employing hydrothermal procedures, coated with a biocompatible
poly-β-cyclodextrin, and characterized using the methods of diffractometry, microscopy,
spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and magnetometry. The sustained drug release is investigated in vitro.
5-Fluorouracil is loaded in the nanocarriers. The empty and 5-fluorouracil-loaded nanocarriers are
screened for their anti-breast cancer activity in vitro on MCF-7 cells.

Results:

The size of the nanoparticles is below 10 nm. They show soft ferromagnetic characteristics.
Further, they show broad NIR absorption bands extending up to 1200 nm, with the dysprosium-doped
material displaying greater absorbance. The drug 5-fluorouracil is encapsulated in the nanocarriers and
released sustainably, with the expulsion duration extending over 10 days. The IC50 of the blank and the
drug-loaded cobalt sulfide are 16.24 ± 3.6 and 12.2 ± 2.6 μg mL-1, respectively. For the drug-loaded,
dysprosium-doped nanocarrier, the IC50 value is 9.7 ± 0.3 μg mL-1.

Conclusion:

The ultrasmall nanoparticles possess a size suitable for drug delivery and are dispersed
well in the aqueous medium. The release of the loaded 5-fluorouracil is slow and sustained. The anticancer
activity of the drug-loaded nanocarrier shows an increase in efficacy, and the cytotoxicity is appreciable
due to the controlled release. The nanocarriers show multi-functional characteristics, i.e.,
magnetic and NIR-absorbing, and are promising drug delivery agents.
Antioxidants, Hormetic Nutrition, and Autism
Authors: Modafferi Sergio , Lupo Gabriella , Tomasello Mario , Rampulla Francesco , Ontario Marialaura , Scuto Maria , Salinaro Angela Trovato , Arcidiacono Antonio , Anfuso Carmelina Daniela , Legmouz Maria , Azzaoui Fatima-Zahra , Palmeri Agostino , Spano Sestina , Biamonte Francesca , Cammilleri Gaetano , Fritsch Tilman , Sidenkova Alena , Calabrese Edward , Wenzel Uwe , Calabrese Vittorio
Published: August 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a heterogeneous group of complex neurodevelopmental
disorders characterized by atypical behaviors with two core pathological manifestations: deficits
in social interaction/communication and repetitive behaviors, which are associated with disturbed
redox homeostasis. Modulation of cellular resilience mechanisms induced by low levels of stressors
represents a novel approach for the development of therapeutic strategies, and in this context, neuroprotective
effects of a wide range of polyphenol compounds have been demonstrated in several in vitro
and in vivo studies and thoroughly reviewed. Mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for
many years and have been associated with a long list of therapeutic properties, including antitumor,
immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, and hepatoprotective effects. Our recent studies
have strikingly indicated the presence of polyphenols in nutritional mushrooms and demonstrated
their protective effects in different models of neurodegenerative disorders in humans and rats. Although
their therapeutic effects are exerted through multiple mechanisms, increasing attention is focusing
on their capacity to induce endogenous defense systems by modulating cellular signaling processes
such as nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways.
Here we discuss the protective role of hormesis and its modulation by hormetic nutrients in
ASD.
MSC-Derived Extracellular Vesicles against Pulmonary Fibrosis of Rodent Model: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Xinghong , Liu Ya , Xie Jiahui , Wen Ziqi , Yang Jiaqi , Zhang Hanyue , Zhou Zijing , Zhang Jinyu , Cui Huixian , Ma Jun
Published: August 2023

Background:

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a fatal disease distinguished by structural destruction and dysfunction, accompanied by continuous accumulation of fibroblasts, which eventually leads to lung failure. Preclinical studies have shown that the administration of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) may be a safe and effective treatment for PF. The purpose of our meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of MSC-EVs therapy and identify therapeutic aspects related to PF.

Methods:

Our study (up to April 6, 2022) identified English and Chinese, preclinical, controlled, and in vivo studies to examine the application of MSC-EVs in the treatment of PF. The risk of bias (ROB) is assessed using the SYRCLE bias risk tool. The primary outcomes include collagen content, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), hydroxyproline (HYP) content, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1).

Results:

Thirteen studies were included in this meta-analysis. Ten studies evaluated the collagen content, five studies evaluated the α-SMA, five studies evaluated the HYP content, and six studies evaluated the TGF-β1. Compared to the control group, MSC-EVs therapy was associated with a significant reduction of collagen accumulation, α-SMA, HYP content, and TGF-β1.

Conclusion:

The administration of MSC-EVs is beneficial for the treatment of rodent PF models. However, the safety and effectiveness of the application in human PF diseases have yet to be confirmed. The application of MSC-EVs in the treatment of PF needs to be further standardized in terms of source, route of administration, and culture method.
Co- and Triaxial Electrospinning for Stem Cell-based Bone Regeneration
Authors: Altundag Özlem , Öteyaka Mustafa Özgür , Çelebi-Saltik Betül
Published: August 2023

Bone tissue is composed of organic minerals and cells. It has the capacity to heal for certain
minor damages, but when the bone defects surpass the critical threshold, they need fixing. Bone regeneration
through natural and synthetic biodegradable materials requires various steps, such as manufacturing
methods and materials selection. A successful biodegradable bone graft should have a high surface area/
volume ratio, strength, and a biocompatible, porous structure capable of promoting cell adhesion, proliferation,
and differentiation. Considering these requirements, the electrospinning technique is promising
for creating functional nano-sized scaffolds. The multi-axial methods, such as coaxial and triaxial electrospinning,
are the most popular techniques to produce double or tri-layered scaffolds, respectively. Recently,
stem cell culture on scaffolds and the application of osteogenic differentiation protocols on these scaffolds
have opened new possibilities in the field of biomaterials research. This review discusses an overview
of the progress in coaxial and triaxial technology through biodegradable composite bone materials.
The review also carefully elaborates the osteogenic differentiation using stem cells and their performance
with nano-sized scaffolds.
Neuroprotection or Sex Bias: A Protective Response to Traumatic Brain
Injury in the Females
Authors: Yatoo Mohammad I. , Bahader Ghaith A. , Beigh Shafayat A. , Khan Adil M. , James Antonisamy William , Asmi Maleha R. , Shah Zahoor A.
Published: August 2023

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major healthcare problem and a common cause of mortality
and morbidity. Clinical and preclinical research suggests sex-related differences in short- and longterm
outcomes following TBI; however, males have been the main focus of TBI research. Females
show a protective response against TBI. Female animals in preclinical studies and women in clinical
trials have shown comparatively better outcomes against mild, moderate, or severe TBI. This reflects a
favorable protective nature of the females compared to the males, primarily attributed to various protective
mechanisms that provide better prognosis and recovery in the females after TBI. Understanding
the sex difference in the TBI pathophysiology and the underlying mechanisms remains an elusive
goal. In this review, we provide insights into various mechanisms related to the anatomical, physiological,
hormonal, enzymatic, inflammatory, oxidative, genetic, or mitochondrial basis that support the
protective nature of females compared to males. Furthermore, we sought to outline the evidence of
multiple biomarkers that are highly potential in the investigation of TBI's prognosis, pathophysiology,
and treatment and which can serve as objective measures and novel targets for individualized therapeutic
interventions in TBI treatment. Implementations from this review are important for the understanding
of the effect of sex on TBI outcomes and possible mechanisms behind the favorable response
in females. It also emphasizes the critical need to include females as a biological variable and in sufficient
numbers in future TBI studies.
Apelin Receptor Dimerization and Oligomerization
Authors: Yeganeh-Hajahmadi Mahboobeh , Moosavi-Saeed Yasmin , Rostamzadeh Farzaneh
Published: August 2023

Apelin and its receptor are expressed in many tissues and play an important role in maintaining the homeostasis of the cardiovascular system and body fluids. Also, the association of this system with many diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cancer, diabetic retinopathy, etc., has been determined. This system is considered a therapeutic goal in many mentioned diseases. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have the ability to form oligomers and dimers with themselves and other receptors. The formation of these oligomers is associated with a change in the signaling pathways of the receptors. Research on the oligo and dimers of these receptors can revolutionize the principles of pharmacology. The apelin receptor (APJ) is also a GPCR and has been shown to have the ability to form dimers and oligomers. This article discusses the dimerization and oligomerization of this receptor with its own receptor and other receptors, as well as the signaling pathways.
Nanotechnology-based Drug Delivery of Topical Antifungal Agents
Authors: Singh Sumita , Patil Vaishali M. , Paliwal Sarvesh Kumar , Masand Neeraj
Published: August 2023

Among the various prominent fungal infections, superficial ones are widespread. A large
number of antifungal agents and their formulations for topical use are commercially available. They
have some pharmacokinetic limitations which cannot be retracted by conventional delivery systems.
While nanoformulations composed of lipidic and polymeric nanoparticles have the potential to overcome
the limitations of conventional systems. The broad spectrum category of antifungals i.e. azoles
(ketoconazole, voriconazole, econazole, miconazole, etc.) nanoparticles have been designed, prepared
and their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile was established. This review briefly
elaborates on the types of nano-based topical drug delivery systems and portrays their advantages for
researchers in the related field to benefit the available antifungal therapeutics.
Insight into the Nutraceutical Potential of Garcinia Species
Authors: Karmakar Shreyasi , Gogoi Urvashee , Saikia Riya , Das Aparoop
Published: August 2023

Background::

A wide variety of Garcinia species have been used over decades, as traditional home remedies starting from their use in flavored food to the treatment of various ailments. The presence of the essential primary and secondary metabolite with curative properties in Garcinia has enhanced its value in the therapeutic world. These have captivated the use of Garcinia in expanding nutritional values and adding extra health benefits. Hereby, observing the potential of different Garcinia species for their use as nutraceuticals.

Objective::

The present-day lifestyle and current health trends are the reasons why the public has accumulated a lot of interest in the nutraceutical food market. Traditionally the various remedies used from plants, fruits, and fruit extracts used in the cure of multiple ailments since antiquity have now made their way into pharmaceutical nutraceuticals. The fruits of Garcinia species have many culinary, nutritional, and pharmaceutical uses. Therefore, the paper aims to focus on the different Garcinia species having nutritional potential along with various therapeutic properties.

Methods::

Studies of different Garcinia species are reviewed, with a focus on their nutritional and medicinal actions on ailments that are the reason for today's lifestyles and current health trends.

Results::

Different varieties of Garcinia species are found to have various potential primary and secondary metabolites which have curative properties like anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, and anti-bacterial potential.

Conclusion::

The natural occurrences of the plant product with nutraceutical value have boosted the quality of life. The Garcinia species containing the essential primary and secondary constituents are accountable for numerous biological activities. Many of the Garcinia species are marketed these days for a better and healthy life. Thus, Garcinia could be used as a nutraceutical to alleviate several disease conditions.
An Improved Voltage Sag Monitor Placement Method by using Simple
Probability Reach Area Matrix
Authors: Zhong Zhenfang , Meng Qingwei , Gao Han , Chen Dong , Jia Zhiheng , Hou Yue
Published: August 2023

Aim:

A novel optimization model is introduced in this paper to achieve monitor placements
of voltage sag.

Background:

Considering the uncertainty of system parameters, calculation errors and measurement
errors, the method of MRA is not suitable.

Objective:

The contradiction between the number of monitors and observation areas can be coordinated
to achieve voltage sag observation with fewer monitor quantities.

Method:

A new generalized approach defined as a simple probability reach area matrix (SPMRA)
is proposed.

Result:

SPMRA method is simulated by the IEEE-39 bus system, which reveals that monitor
placement quantities can be reduced effectively under probabilistic observability.

Conclusion:

SPMRA method is a general method for monitor placements of voltage sag. This
method not only performs the functions of conventional MRA methods, but also addresses the
challenges of errors and conflicts between observation requirements and installation costs.
Investigating and Improving the Efficiency of Space-time Codes in Visible
light Communication Systems based on a Multi-input-multi-output
Channel Model
Authors: Heidari Mahdieh , Akbari Mahdi , Olyaee Saeed
Published: August 2023

Background:

Visible light communication (VLC) is a new communication method for
transmitting information through semiconductor lighting devices. One of the applicable methods to
improve the spectral efficiency of the system is the multi-input-multiple-output (MIMO) structure.
Also, carrierless amplitude-phase (CAP) modulation is a high-dimensional modulation technique
that can be used to improve the data transmission rate in modern communication systems.

Methods:

In this paper, carrierless amplitude-phase method is introduced in indoor optical communication
systems to improve the performance of multi-input multi-output (MIMO) structures.
The CAP modulation is considered a suitable method due to its low complexity and is introduced
and studied in two structures with one carrier or CAP and multiple carriers or m-CAP.

Results:

In this study, the target system is simulated in m-CAP structures and the improvement is
measured in the MIMO structure using this modulation. The results show that by using this method,
the PAPR of the system was reduced compared to other research with the MIMO-OFDM structure.
In addition, by not using FFT blocks, the computational and processing complexity was also
reduced.

Conclusion:

It has been shown that the use of m-CAP increases the data transfer rate and improves
the spectral efficiency of the system. In addition to CAP, spatial modulation schemes can also help
improve the spectral efficiency and power efficiency of the system. Moreover, the space-time code
is combined with m-CAP modulation and it is shown that this idea improves the efficiency of the
MIMO system.
Formulation Design and Characterization of Nilotinib Polymeric Nanoparticles
by Nanoprecipitation Technique for the Improved Drug Solubility
and Dissolution Rate
Authors: Tamminana Mallika , Ravi Kumar Bera Venkata Varaha
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Nilotinib is a BCS class-IV poorly water-soluble kinase inhibitor drug, that
was used for this study to prepare the polymeric nanoparticles by nanoprecipitation technique using
Eudragit RL-100 and RS-100 as polymers, Killophore P-188 as a surfactant, and PEG 400 used as a
non-volatile, and nontoxic solvent for the improvement of the drug solubility and dissolution rate.

Method:

The initial process and formulation variables are screened out based on the selected critical
quality attributes such as drug release (%), particle size (nm), zeta potential (mV), and polydispersity
index. The FT-IR and DSC studies reveal that the drug has no compatibility between the selected drug
and the polymers and does not show any additional drug peaks after physical mixing and formulations.
The prepared nanoparticles were further characterized to evaluate the particle size (nm), polydispersity
index (PDI), zeta potential (mV), entrapment efficiency (%), and in-vitro drug release (%). From the
in vitro drug release study, Eudragit RL-100 and Killophore P-188-based formulations showed optimum
drug entrapment efficiency with improved drug solubility and dissolution rate in PEG 400 compared
to Eudragit RS-100-based formulations. The accelerated stability data for the optimized formulation
batch (F6) before and after storage conditions at 40±2 0C and 75±5% RH indicates that the optimized
formulation (F6) is more stable for up to 6 months without changes in drug entrapment efficiency
and in vitro dissolution rate. Dissolution kinetic data and diffusion exponent values suggested
that optimized formulation followed the Higuchi model with a non-Fickian transport mechanism.

Result:

According to the results, the preparation method proposed in this study is the most suitable
for generating polymeric nanoparticles of nilotinib for improved drug solubility and dissolution rate.

Conclusion:

The nilotinib-based polymeric nano-formulation proved a potential alternative for better
drug release with an enhanced solubility rate.
Bifidobacterial Postbiotics as Health-promoting Agents in Dairy Products
Authors: Homayouni-Rad Aziz , Moghadam Saba Kamalledin , Mortazavian Amir M. , Abachi Soheila , Allahmadadi Sevda
Published: August 2023

Background:

Bifidobacteria is a commercial probiotic that is widely used in industries. However, due to its oxygen-sensitive nature, industries have faced some limitations during the addition of the products. Recently it was stated that the metabolites secreted by bifidobacteria have a key role in improving health.

Objective:

The possibility of a postbiotic replacement for probiotics in dairy industries and its effect on health are discussed.

Method:

the keywords including postbiotic, probiotic, dairy, bifidobacteria, inactivated bifidobacteria, bifidobacteria metabolites, the effect of bifidobacteria on psychology, human health, cancer, and inflammation are searched on Google Scholar as well as more than 600 research and review articles are read.

Result:

Bifidobacteria could change gut bacteria positively and improve health directly. Also, the metabolites produced by bifidobacteria indirectly have wide-range effects on health.

Conclusion:

Due to the anaerobic nature of bifidobacteria, applying a postbiotic / non-viable form of bifidobacteria is a sagacious option in dairy products.
Tecnologías de transporte por cable aéreo para condiciones de ladera
Authors: Cubillos Varela Alfonso , Lesmes Suárez Juan Carlos , Murcia Juan Sebastián , Murcia Sergio Duván , Varón Ramírez Viviana Marcela , Santacruz Adriana Marcela
Published: August 2023

Este folleto tiene el propósito de promover la adopción de las tecnologías de transporte de carga por cable aéreo en condiciones de ladera para productos agrícolas en Colombia. El documento presenta: 1) Los distintos tipos de sistemas de transporte por cable aéreo. 2) Las estrategias para seleccionar el sistema más adecuado de acuerdo con las condiciones productivas y las necesidades de los agricultores. 3) Los componentes y el funcionamiento del sistema. 4) Las etapas de implementación y las recomendaciones de uso. 5) Alternativas de acceso y financiación.