bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Preoperative Single Dose Misoprostol on Intraoperative Blood Loss during Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Aziz Asmaa Ezzat Abdel , Sokary Aml Abdel Samea El , Borg Hesham Mohamed El Said , Marey Safaa Kamal
Published: February 2022

Background: Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. It is the most frequently performed major gynaecological surgical procedure, with millions of procedures performed annually throughout the world. Hysterectomy can be performed for benign and malignant indications. Misoprostol, a synthetic analogue of prostaglandin E1, has been extensively evaluated as a uterotonic agent in obstetrics mainly for prevention and management of postpartum haemorrhage and reduction of bleeding during caesarean delivery. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the impact and efficacy of pre-operative sublingual misoprostol given in women having hysterectomy in terms of blood loss.

Results: This randomized single blind controlled trial was carried on 70 women undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy. They were randomly allocated in two equal groups: misoprostol group: patients received two tablets of Misoprostol (=200 μg) 30 minutes before operation and a control group (placebo group): patients received two tablets of Placebo 30 minutes before            operation.

Haemoglobin and Haematocrit reductions were significantly lower among misoprostol group than among placebo group. Blood loss was significantly lower among misoprostol group than among placebo group. The most common indication for hysterectomy was a fibroid, dysfunction uterine bleeding and, adenomyosis. The fibroid was the most significant for the effect of misoprostol in decreasing blood loss, haemoglobin and haematocrit during abdominal hysterectomy more than adenomyosis and dysfunction uterine bleeding.

Conclusions: A single preoperative dose of 400 μg of misoprostol administered 30 minutes before abdominal hysterectomy resulted in a significant reduction of blood loss.
Comparative Analysis of In vitro Quality Parameters of Different Brands of Marketed Ciprofloxacin Tablets Available in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Mst. Mahfuza , Akter Khurshida , Rahman Masudur , Shorna Jinat Fatema , Lahiry Amitav , Wahed Mir Imam Ibne
Published: February 2022

Aim: Ciprofloxacin is a broad‑spectrum antibiotic under the group of drugs called fluoroquinolones. It is extensively being manufactured and marketed drug by many national and multinational pharmaceutical companies. The purpose of this study was to compare the quality of different brands of ciprofloxacin 500mg tablets available in Bangladesh using quality characteristics such as weight variation, hardness, thickness, friability, disintegration time, and dissolution profile.

Methodology: The tablets' overall quality criteria, such as weight variation, hardness, thickness, diameter, friability, disintegration time, and dissolving profile, were evaluated using established protocols. An electric analytical balance was employed to measure weight variation. An automated hardness tester was used to determine the hardness, thickness, and diameter. A friabilator was used to determine the degree of friability. A disintegration equipment and a dissolution tester were used to examine the disintegration time and dissolution profile, respectively.

 Results: In this study, all the values were compared with the standards. All brands had been passed for the weight variation test, because no tablets surpass the ± 5 % weight variation. The weight variation range was from 714.57±4.08 mg (brand C) to 837.92±7.49 mg (brand E). In hardness testing procedure, all brands of ciprofloxacin 500mg tablets were within the specified limit. The average hardness of the items ranges from 11.11±1.44 kgF to 19.26±2.20 kgF respectively. The five brand's percentage friability was less than 1%, indicating that they met the requirements. The lowest friability (0.015 %) was found in Brand E, while the highest friability (0.032 %) was found in Brand B. Within 10 minutes, the entire trademark had disintegrated, indicating that they had met the requirements. Brand E had the quickest disintegration time (5.35±0.49 minutes), while brand B had the slowest (9.12±0.88 minutes).All brands had a dissolution rate of 83.56% for A, 95.84% for B, 91.15% for C, 84.46% for D and 88.97% for E, all those were within 60 minutes in dissolution testing. The five brands' assay was within the specified limit, indicating that they met the requirements

Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study of evaluating quality control parameters revealed that all of the leading brands of this tablet comply the quality control parameters as per pharmacopoeial specifications. Further work is recommended on bioequivalence of these tablets.
A Review on Hydrotherapy Practices in Ancient India
Authors: Sujatha K. J. , Manjunath N. K.
Published: February 2022

Background: Water being one of the five great elements (pañcamahābhūta), is considered to be the medium of creation and maintenance of life. Hydrotherapy is the application of water in various forms, temperature on the body either internally or externally for the treatment of the diseases and maintenance of health. It has been observed that many of the practices are considered as a part of daily routine before it was developed into a separate treatment modality. Application of water was given utmost importance in Indian traditional texts like Rigveda, yajurveda, atharva veda, as well as caraka samhitä, çuçruta samhitä and añöäìgasangraha of äyurveda. The practice of hydrotherapy was a part of the all performances or rituals like yäga and yajïa. In this study we aim to elaborate the ancient Indian techniques for improving the body immunity through hydrotherapy as mentioned in traditional texts. The traditional references for hydrotherapy technique like bath, affusion, immersion, packs, irrigations, compresses, poultices, etc, in Indian tradition are searched and compiled. The key changes which can happen in the body due to these practices, which confirm the healthy condition is studied and the proper methodology for these procedures are listed as per the Indian texts with upgrading methods.  We observed in this research that, although having a firm foundation of these behaviours listed in all classic books, they are not mandatory in our day-to-day actions.The modern life style has given more liberty to the people about these practices.  Many historical methods have been seen to be unappealing or to fail to persuade others. In this regard we found many of the ready/ easy practices which can reach wider range of people, as an essential method to propagate and train for better living and protection of health to entire humankind.
Effect of Biochemical Parameters and Histology of Liver on Sucrose-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Wistar Rats
Authors: Abubakar U. , Wasagu H. I. , Mohammed M. O. , Tsamiya R. I. , Mohammed I. , Avwioro O. G. , Muhammad A. T. , Umar A. , Sani S. M. , Yale B. M. , Umar S. , Imam A. B.
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multiple factorial condition that draws a parallel to various risks such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. As per the new International Diabetes Federation (IDF), for a person to be defined as having metabolic syndrome of central obesity along with any two of the following four factors: Raised triglycerides (≥ 150 mg/dL), reduced HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dL in males and<50 mg/dL in females), raised blood pressure (systolic BP ≥ 130 or diastolic BP ≥ 85 mm Hg) and raised fasting plasma glucose (FPG ≥ 100 mg/dL).

Sucrose is a common sugar, also known as “table sugar”. It is a sweet-tasting carbohydrate that is present in almost everything we eat. It is a natural compound that gives us valuable energy as it is a quick and easy source of energy but sucrose tends to be harmful when over-consumed. Sucrose is consumed worldwide and it is known to have harmful effects on metabolic heath.

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the histological and biochemical changes of liver in sucrose induced metabolic syndrome in Wistar rats.

Methods: Total of 24 Wistar rats were randomly grouped into three groups A, B and C. 10g of sucrose was weighed and dissolved in 100 ml of distilled water to make the 10% sucrose solution and 20g was also weighed and dissolved in 100 ml of distilled water to make the 20% sucrose solution. Group A served as control and was administered orally with distilled water, group B was administered with the 10% sucrose solution orally and group C was administered with the 20% sucrose solution orally all for 6 weeks (42 days) The Wistar rats were anaesthetized using chloroform vapour in an enclosed transparent jar. Blood was collected through cardiac puncture and dispensed in to plain container for liver biochemical analysis and liver was carefully removed and washed with normal saline and then fixed in 10 % formol saline for histological preparation.

Results: There was increase in some serum liver function parameters: total protein (TP), Albumin (ALB), Total bilirubin (TB), Aspartate transaminase (AST) and Alanine transaminase (ALT) but the increase was statistically insignificant. Malondialdehyde (MDA), Triglycerides (TG), High density lipoprotein- cholesterol (HDL-Chol) and Glucose parameters were also statistically insignificant. Histopathology examination of sections of the liver specimens shows steatosis (deposits of fat on the liver) on the liver of both group B and C Wistar rats.

Conclusion: Histological examination of the liver specimens shows presence of fat cells deposition (steatosis) in all liver sections. Further studies needed to make a definitive conclusion as to whether the biochemical parameters can cause insignificant or significant changes.
Knowledge And Awareness on Oral Care Among Mothers of Children Less Than Five Years Old: A Survey
Authors: Mohamed Naz Fathima Raj , Gayathri R. , Priya V. Vishnu
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Health-related behaviors are influenced by knowledge and awareness, with oral health being no exception. It is well-known that oral diseases are influenced by social determinants. Children depend on their parents and caretakers for maintenance of their oral health so oral health knowledge of mothers could be associated with the status of their children’s oral health.

Aim: The aim of this survey was to evaluate and create awareness on oral care among mothers of children less than 5 years old.

Materials and Methods: An online survey was conducted among mothers of children less than five years old using a questionnaire in google forms. The Questionnaire was framed which mainly targeted awareness on dental attitude, knowledge and practice of mothers regarding their children’s oral health. The survey was done in January 2021. The results were obtained and statistically analysed through SPSS software, chi square test was done and represented as pie-chart and bar graphs.

Results: Out of 100 mothers who participated in the study, 66.09% have studied up to primary/high school level and 33.91% have qualified university level. About 54.78% of the participants agreed that the importance of oral health to general health, 28.70% disagreed. The association of mothers' education and their opinion on children's age on brushing their teeth shows that the majority of primary/high school mothers agreed that children should brush their teeth older than 5 years than other participants and it was statistically significant p value=0.04(>0.05))

Conclusion: Mothers who are graduates are more aware of the importance of oral health in children, treatment of dental caries, and brushing technique than mothers who qualified with school education.
A Review on Selected South Indian Regime of Tamil Nadu for the Seasonal Management of Communicable Diseases
Authors: Birundadevi M. , Sivapriya T. , Sindhuja T. , Mathukumar S.
Published: February 2022

Communicable diseases are infectious diseases that are caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa etc. Seasonal change in the infectious disease incidence is a common phenomenon in temperate and tropical climates such as India. The present covid-19 pandemic has become a spotlight on the importance of boosting our immune system and focuses on key gaps in understanding the function of our immune system. While there is an emergence of new strains of viruses and its consequences in today’s world, it urges us to spectate on lifestyle modification through natural measures that focuses on boosting our immunity apart from vaccines. This gap area has developed an interest to review the traditional Siddha texts that explains the disciplines of life for various seasons that specifically directs the daily routines to be followed from the dawn to dusk of the day according to seasons. This Siddha system of medicine is an ancient system of Tamil nadu in India which emphasize on Nithya Ozhukkam (Seasonal disciplines) in order to lead healthy and disease-free life. The latter rainy season (Koothirkalam) can favour the spread of many infectious diseases. Only few research work has been published on literature analysis of ancient texts exploring the science behind its facts. While there is a tremendous interest and research in the health-promoting and protective concepts of traditional systems off late, this review article has unraveled the scientific facts of few selected traditional food regime and the concepts of mukkutra theory (Trihumoural theory) which can be beneficial to boost our immunity against communicable diseases as recommended in ancient Siddha texts.
Determining the Impact of Coronavirus (COVID 19) on General Surgical Practice in India
Authors: Patel Aditya D. , Nangare Nitin R. , Mehta Tanmay
Published: February 2022

Background: The increased risk of contracting Covid 19 has proved to be a major professional hazard for surgeons working through the coronavirus pandemic that started in 2019, the aim of this study is to examine the effect of covid 19 on the general surgical practice in India. After the high number of worldwide cases, Covid 19 was officially proclaimed to be pandemic on March 11, 2020. The Indian government announced the implementation of a 3 week long nationwide lockdown on March 24 in an effort to curb the escalation of the Covid 19 crisis, as the number of people who tested positive reached 563.

Methodology: A list was obtained of members of the Indian Association of Gastro intestinal endo-surgeons (IAGES) and email id was collected. Pre formed semi structured questionnaire was sent to email id of all 6000 doctors. Out of which One hundred and forty surgeons

Had responded. The survey involved questions about the practice of surgery prior to COVID19 and implications of COVID 19 in the current practice and financial of surgery. The answers were compiled and analyzed statistically.

Results: The larger part (40%) had practiced for over 20 years; 36.4% worked in various private medical centres Of those that took the survey it was found that 40 % had a largely laparoscopic practice wherein they saw approximately an average of 24 patients a day and 40 cases/month as planned surgical cases. After the blockade, step by step technique. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) chemoprophylaxis was represented by 54% of subject matter experts. Individual guarded equipment (PPE) was used by 58.2% in all cases, 72.3% communicated that there was insufficient course for future cautious work on concerning prosperity. 53% of experts saw a reduction of more than 75% in their month to month pay, while 21% saw an abatement of 50-75%. A third (33%) of respondents own a crisis facility and anticipate that a month should month money related charge of 2.30 million rupees.

Conclusion: Covid 19 has  radically lessened the load of the current surgical practice and elective surgical treatments. This study warrants the need for the establishment of clear guidelines to ensure the safety of specialists in the conduction of surgical practices, and to set in place a plan to overcome the financial liability brought about by COVID 19.
Formulation and Characterisation of RGD-FBG Based Nanoscaffolds as Novel Anti-Cancer Drug Delivery System
Authors: Patel Deepa , Pathak Drashti
Published: February 2022

Aims/Objective: To formulate and evaluate RGD sequenced fibrin/fibrinogen based nanoscaffolds (acid-labile linker) for the treatment of brain tumor targeting to achieve an acid-triggered drug release under a mild acidic condition in tumor.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmaceutics, Parul Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Parul University, Vadodara, between 2017 to 2021.

Methodology: Nanoscaffolds was prepared with Drug–linker–Fbg conjugate solution, using modified water-in-oil (W/O) emulsification/solvent extraction method. The conjugate solution was constantly injected in soya lecithin (100 ml) using a syringe (1 ml/min) and stirred using Magnetic stirrer for 30 minutes to form stable a W/O emulsion. The present investigation was aimed to evaluate with Particle size, Zeta potential measurement, Percent drug entrapment, Transmission electron microscopy.

Results:  As per Evaluation parameters were performed such as Particle size measured as 151.8±2.02 nm to 157.4 ± 3.81 nm. Zeta Potential was found that -37.1±6.32, Percent Drug Entrapment was 91.4±0.37 which indicates that the drug release of lyophilised FBG based nanoscaffolds was indicatively higher as compared to FBG based nanoscaffolds (alone).

Conclusion: As per the study design the formulated nanoscaffolds were found to impart the drug release based on their particle size and percent drug entrapment and hence fights against cancer cells in brain by their EDC-NHS chemistry. Drug of choice Everolimus along with Fbg based nanoscaffolds offers better biocompatibility by exposing dual responsiveness at acidic environment in tumors. The results of in-vitro drug release reveals the better uptake of drug at targeted site of action.
Assessment of Relation of Serum Uric Acid & Micro Albuminuria in the Patients of Diabetes Mellitus Type-2 for Early Detection of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Shah Madiha , Aziz Asif , Ashraf Sarwat , Husain Shirjeel , Bano Razia , Fatima Syeda Nargis , Shams Salman
Published: February 2022

Background: Diabetic Nephropathy is one of the serious and life perilous complications of diabetes mellitus. Prolong duration of diabetes, no proper care and management, poor glycemic control in diabetic nephropathy can lead to End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Objective: To assess the relation of serum uric acid & micro albuminuria in the patients of diabetes mellitus for early detection of diabetic nephropathy.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, LUMHS Jamshoro, with a total of 80 diabetic patients as case study subjects and 80 non-diabetic healthy participants as controls. Random glucose was measured using the gluco oxidase technique, and serum uric acid was measured using the uricase enzyme method in a calorimeter. Immunoterbidimetory kit technique was used to calculate microalbuminuria.

Results: The mean value of random blood sugar (RBS) in the control group was 135 ± 10.11  mg/dl, but RBS in the case study group was 224 ± 13.52 mg/dl, indicating that RBS in the case study group was extremely significant (P < 0.001). The mean serum uric acid level in the control group was 4.7 ± 0.6 mg/dl, while it was 6.6 ± 1.4 mg/dl in the case study group, which is highly significant (P <0.001) with correlation (r= 0.34). Albumin in urine in the control group was 10 .2 ± 1.78 mg/gm, while it was 54± 10.34mg/gm in the case study group, which is a significant (P< 0.05) increase in the case study group with correlation (r= 0.28).  In diabetics, serum uric acid and microalbuminuria show a positive connection.

Conclusion: This study concluded that there is strong positive relation of serum uric acid and micro albuminuria in diabetic patients for the early detection of diabetic nephropathy.
Evaluation of Anti Inflammatory and Anti Oxidant Activities of Osbeckia crinite
Authors: Kalita Pallab , Medhi Simanta , Borah Sudarshana , Bhargav G. K. , Alam Faruk
Published: February 2022

Background: Inflammation is a major condition associated with various diseases. Osbeckia crinita (Family- Melastomataceae) plants found in Meghalaya has the traditional beliefs to treat in the various disorders including various inflammatory disorders.

Objective: Evaluate the antioxidant and anti inflammatory activities of the leaves of Osbeckia crinita.

Methods: DPPH Radical Scavenging Activity and Carrageenan induced paw edema in mice.

Results: In the plant extract, various phytoconstituents are present including flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids etc. Methanolic extract of Osbeckia crinita prominently showed free radical scavenging activities. The extract exhibited statistically significant inhibition of paw volume in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusion: The study highlights the efficacy of Osbeckia crinita which is an ancient tradition, used in North eastern part of India. This ancient concept should be carefully evaluated in the light of modern medical science and can be utilized partially if found suitable.
Outcomes of an Early Childhood Hearing Screening Program in a Low-Income Setting
Authors: Brodie Kara D. , David Abel P. , Kriss Hayley , Chan Dylan K.
Published: February 2022

Importance

Early identification of childhood hearing loss through newborn hearing screening mitigates permanent speech, language, and developmental delays, but many children are lost to follow-up or develop postnatal hearing loss. Early childhood hearing screening programs may help identify these children, but evidence on their outcomes is limited.

Objective

To assess outcomes from a low-income, preschool-based hearing screening program and risk factors for hearing loss in this population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective cohort study of 6820 children aged 2 to 6 years from urban, low-income public preschools who received hearing screening from July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2019, was performed using San Francisco Department of Public Health records. A multivariate logistic regression analyzed risk factors for hearing loss. Data analysis was conducted from January 14, 2020, to April 20, 2021.

Exposures

Annual single-visit, 2-tiered screening was implemented with conditioned play pure-tone audiometry (CPA) and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (OAEs).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Rates of successful screening, referred screening, loss to follow-up, and hearing loss.

Results

Of 6820 children (age, 2-6 years) screened, 3425 (50.2%) were boys, 15% were White/non-Hispanic, and 48% had English as the primary home language. A total of 403 (5.9%) children were referred for full medical or audiologic evaluation after 2-tiered CPA/OAE screening. Only 24 children were unable to complete both CPA and OAE testing for a screening completion rate of 99.6%. After medical evaluation, 114 of 403 children (28.3%) passed hearing rescreening and 55 (13.6%) were lost to follow-up. The prevalence of conductive hearing loss was 2.9% (n = 195), and the prevalence of sensorineural hearing loss was 0.2% (n = 13). Primary language, race and ethnicity, and sex were not associated with rates of referral or hearing loss.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that preschool-based screening programs can be a useful method to identify early childhood hearing loss and that teacher concerns are associated with final diagnostic hearing status.
Youth perceptions of prevention norms and peer violence perpetration and victimization: A prospective analysis
Authors: Waterman Emily A. , Banyard Victoria L. , Edwards Katie M. , Mauer Victoria A.
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the current study is to prospectively examine the extent to which social norms perceptions regarding commitment to ending sexual violence are associated with subsequent peer victimization and perpetration experiences. Two types of social norms perceptions were examined: 1) peer norms (perceptions of norms among other students in their city), and 2) adult norms (perceptions of norms among adults in their city). Participants were 1259 middle and high school youth from a single school district (three high schools and five middle schools) who completed online surveys at two‐time points, 6 months apart. Adolescents for whom perceptions of peer norms were one standard deviation or more above and below the mean of actual norms were “over‐perceivers” and “under‐perceivers,” respectively. Overperceivers overestimated their peers' commitment to ending sexual violence, whereas underperceivers underestimated their peers' commitment to ending sexual violence. Other adolescents were “accurate perceivers”; these adolescents were accurate in their estimation of their peers' commitment to ending sexual violence. In general, underperceivers (22.2% of the sample) were more likely than accurate perceivers (77.8% of the sample) to subsequently experience peer‐to‐peer perpetration and victimization. Adolescents who perceived adults to have a higher commitment to ending sexual violence were less likely to report subsequent perpetration and victimization for some forms of peer‐to‐peer violence. These findings highlight the potential promise of the social norms approaches to prevent peer‐to‐peer violence among youth which aligns with increasing calls in the field to integrate these approaches into comprehensive sexual violence prevention.
Nanoengineered Neutrophils as a Cellular Sonosensitizer for Visual Sonodynamic Therapy of Malignant Tumors
Authors: Sun Lei , Zhou Jing‐e , Luo Tengshuo , Wang Jing , Kang Liqing , Wang Yeying , Luo Shenggen , Wang Zhehao , Zhou Ziyu , Zhu Jiaxi , Yu Jiahui , Yu Lei , Yan Zhiqiang
Published: February 2022

The rapid evolution of cell‐based theranostics has attracted extensive attention due to their unique advantages in biomedical applications. However, the inherent functions of cells alone cannot meet the needs of malignant tumor treatment. Thus endowing original cells with new characteristics to generate multifunctional living cells may hold a tremendous promise. Here, the nanoengineering method is used to combine customized liposomes with neutrophils, generating oxygen‐carrying sonosensitizer cells with acoustic functions, which are called Acouscyte/O2, for the visual diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Specifically, oxygen‐carried perfluorocarbon and temoporfin are encapsulated into cRGD peptide modified multilayer liposomes (C‐ML/HPT/O2), which are then loaded into live neutrophils to obtain Acouscyte/O2. Acouscyte/O2 can not only carry a large amount of oxygen but also exhibits the ability of long circulation, inflammation‐triggered recruitment, and decomposition. Importantly, Acouscyte/O2 can be selectively accumulated in tumors, effectively enhancing tumor oxygen levels, and triggering anticancer sonodynamics in response to ultrasound stimulation, leading to complete obliteration of tumors and efficient extension of the survival time of tumor‐bearing mice with minimal systemic adverse effects. Meanwhile, the tumors can be monitored in real time by temoporfin‐mediated fluorescence imaging and perfluorocarbon (PFC)‐microbubble‐enhanced ultrasound imaging. Therefore, the nanoengineered neutrophils, i.e., Acouscyte/O2, are a new type of multifunctional cellular drug, which provides a new platform for the diagnosis and sonodynamic therapy of solid malignant tumors.
The Compressive Strength Prediction for FRP‐Confined Concrete in Circular Columns by Applying the Normalized AlexNet‐ELM and the Advanced Red Fox Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Cui Wenming , Zhao Li‐Cai , Xu Yi‐Peng , Mamlooki Mina
Published: February 2022

Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) can be widely utilized in civil engineering because of their helpful features like high corrosion resistance for aggressive surroundings and high strength to weight ratio. By providing a lateral confining pressure, the concrete compressive strength is increased. Giving an analytic model that can forecast the FRP strength is the purpose of this study. This model is according to the normalized AlexNet Extreme Learning Machine and the Advanced Red Fox Optimization Algorithm (AlexNet‐ELM‐ARFO). The AlexNet‐ELM‐ARFO algorithm's innovation includes a formulation of an analytic relation, which doesn't attend to the established effectiveness parameter that is in the models introduced in the literature. An extended empirical dataset is utilized for defining the suggested formulation's variables. The suggested model is applied to circular columns including continuous FRP. The predictions’ validation is shown by parametric research and the precision is examined by an empirical against theoretic comparison. A supplementary comparison is demonstrated with consideration of the theoretic prediction gained from the given method and the formulations’ results using significant design codes. Outcomes prove that the used method is adapted to the FRP‐confined concrete design and ensures an improved precision in comparison with respect to the available competitors.
Progress in Diamanes and Diamanoids Nanosystems for Emerging Technologies
Authors: Tiwari Santosh K. , Pandey Raunak , Wang Nannan , Kumar Vijay , Sunday Olusegun J. , Bystrzejewski Michał , Zhu Yanqiu , Mishra Yogendra Kumar
Published: February 2022

New materials are the backbone of their technology‐driven modern civilization and at present carbon nanostructures are the leading candidates that have attracted huge research activities. Diamanes and diamanoids are the new nanoallotropes of sp3hybridized carbon which can be fabricated by proper functionalization, substitution, and via Birch reduction under controlled pressure using graphitic system as a precursor. These nanoallotropes exhibit outstanding electrical, thermal, optical, vibrational, and mechanical properties, which can be an asset for new technologies, especially for quantum devices, photonics, and space technologies. Moreover, the features like wide bandgap, tunable thermal conductivity, excellent thermal insulation, etc. make diamanes and diamanoids ideal candidates for nano‐electrical devices, nano‐resonators, optical waveguides, and the next generation thermal management systems. In this review, diamanes and diamanoids are discussed in detail in terms of its historical prospect, method of synthesis, structural features, broad properties, and cutting‐edge applications. Additionally, the prospects of diamanes and diamanoids for new applications are carefully discussed. This review aims to provide a critical update with important ideas for a new generation of quantum devices based on diamanes and diamanoids which are going to be an important topic in the future of carbon nanotechnology.
Tuning Resistive Switching Behavior by Controlling Internal Ionic Dynamics for Biorealistic Implementation of Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Yoo Sangmin , Wu Yuting , Park Yongmo , Lu Wei D.
Published: February 2022

Memristive devices have demonstrated rich switching behaviors that closely resemble synaptic functions and provide a building block to construct efficient neuromorphic systems. It is demonstrated that resistive switching effects are controlled not only by the external field, but also by the dynamics of various internal state variables that facilitate the ionic processes. The internal temperature, for example, works as a second‐state variable to regulate the ion motion and provides the internal timing mechanism for the native implementation of timing‐ and rate‐based learning rules such as spike timing dependent plasticity (STDP). In this work, it is shown that the 2nd state‐variable in a Ta2O5‐based memristor, its internal temperature, can be systematically engineered by adjusting the material properties and device structure, leading to tunable STDP characteristics with different time constants. When combined with an artificial post‐synaptic neuron, the 2nd‐order memristor synapses can spontaneously capture the temporal correlation in the input streaming events.
Effects of long‐term exposure to TDCPP in zebrafish (Danio rerio) – Alternations of hormone balance and gene transcriptions along hypothalamus‐pituitary axes
Authors: Liu Xiaoshan , Lu Xiaoxun , Hong Jiabin , Zhang Jing , Lin Juntong , Jiang Mengzhu , Liu Qian , Choi Kyungho , Zhang Jingjing
Published: February 2022

Background

TDCPP is one of the major chemical of organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) that has been detected ubiquitously in both the environment and biota. Previously we observed that it influenced the concentrations of sex and thyroid hormones in a sex‐dependent pattern, leading to reproductive impairments after short‐term exposure in zebrafish. Here we investigate the consequences of longer‐term exposure to TDCPP on the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonad (HPG), hypothalamic‐pituitary‐interrenal (HPI), and hypothalamic‐pituitary‐thyroid (HPT) axes of zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Methods

A 120‐day exposure test to 0.005, 0.05 and 0.5 mg/L TDCPP was initiated with fertilized eggs. Sex steroid hormones in the treated fishes were measured and transcriptional changes were analyzed.

Results

In female fish, exposure to TDCPP resulted in increases in plasma cortisol, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17β‐estradiol (E2), cortisol, thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3). Transcription of most target genes along HPG, HPI and HPT axes were increased by the exposure. While in male fish the exposure led to decreases in cortisol, FSH, LH, T4, T3, testosterone (T), and 11‐ketotestosterone (11‐KT). Transcription of genes along HPG, HPI and HPT axes, especially steroidogenic genes, were inhibited in male zebrafish. While, E2/T or E2/11‐KT ratio was increased in both female and females. The sex‐dependent changes in hormones might be due to differential responses to TDCPP induced stresses. An increase in cortisol level coincided with increases in E2 and THs in female fish, while in males decreases in cortisol as well as T, 11‐KT and THs were observed. Long‐term exposure to TDCPP at very low (μg/L) concentrations could disrupt hormone balances in a sex dependent way.

Conclusion

This study revealed that TDCPP could affect endocrine axes – HPG, HPI and HPT – in zebrafish, and impair zebrafish development.
Eine einzige stabilisierende Punktmutation ermöglicht hochaufgelöste Co‐Kristallstrukturen des Adenosin‐A2A‐Rezeptors mit Preladenant‐Konjugaten
Authors: Claff Tobias , Klapschinski Tim A. , Tiruttani Subhramanyam Udaya K. , Vaaßen Victoria J. , Schlegel Jonathan G. , Vielmuth Christin , Voß Jan H. , Labahn Jörg , Müller Christa E.
Published: February 2022

Der G‐Protein‐gekoppelte Adenosin‐A2A‐Rezeptor (A2AAR) stellt eine wichtige neue (potentielle) Arzneistoff‐Zielstruktur für die Immunonkologie und für neurodegenerative Erkrankungen dar. Preladenant und dessen Derivate gehören zu den wirksamsten A2AAR‐Antagonisten mit außerordentlich hoher Selektivität. Kristallstrukturen des humanen A2AARs wurden bereits gelöst, meist unter Verwendung des A2A‐StaR2‐Proteins, welches 9 Punktmutationen aufweist; eine Co‐Kristallisation mit Preladenant‐Derivaten gelang allerdings bisher nicht. Wir haben nun ein neues A2AAR‐Konstrukt mit nur einer Punktmutation (S913.39K) entwickelt, die den Rezeptor besonders stark stabilisiert. Dieses ermöglichte die Co‐Kristallisation von zwei neuen Preladenant‐Derivativen, dem Polyethylenglykol‐konjugierten (PEGylierten) PSB‐2113 und dem Fluorophor‐markierten PSB‐2115. Die erhaltenen Kristallstrukturen (mit 2.25 Å und 2.6 Å Auflösung) liefern Erklärungen für die hohe Potenz und Selektivität von Preladenant‐Derivaten. Es handelt sich um die ersten Kristallstrukturen von G‐Protein‐gekoppelten Rezeptoren (GPCR) im Komplex mit PEG‐ bzw. Fluorophor‐konjugierten Liganden. Die verfolgte Strategie ist vermutlich auf weitere Klasse‐A‐GPCR übertragbar.
Reactivity Differences Enable ROS for Selective Ablation of Bacteria
Authors: Wu Xiaofeng , Yang Mengyao , Kim Ji Seon , Wang Rui , Kim Gyoungmi , Ha Jeongsun , Kim Heejeong , Cho Yejin , Nam Ki Taek , Yoon Juyoung
Published: February 2022

An effective strategy to engineer selective photodynamic agents to surmount bacterial‐infected diseases, especially Gram‐positive bacteria remains a great challenge. Herein, we developed two examples of compounds for a proof‐of‐concept study where reactive differences in reactive oxygen species (ROS) can induce selective ablation of Gram‐positive bacteria. Sulfur‐replaced phenoxazinium (NBS‐N) mainly generates a superoxide anion radical capable of selectively killing Gram‐positive bacteria, while selenium‐substituted phenoxazinium (NBSe‐N) has a higher generation of singlet oxygen that can kill both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. This difference was further evidenced by bacterial fluorescence imaging and morphological changes. Moreover, NBS‐N can also successfully heal the Gram‐positive bacteria‐infected wounds in mice. We believe that such reactive differences may pave a general way to design selective photodynamic agents for ablating Gram‐positive bacteria‐infected diseases.
Single Stabilizing Point Mutation Enables High‐Resolution Co‐Crystal Structures of the Adenosine A2A Receptor with Preladenant Conjugates
Authors: Claff Tobias , Klapschinski Tim A. , Tiruttani Subhramanyam Udaya K. , Vaaßen Victoria J. , Schlegel Jonathan G. , Vielmuth Christin , Voß Jan H. , Labahn Jörg , Müller Christa E.
Published: February 2022

The G protein‐coupled adenosine A2A receptor (A2AAR) is an important new (potential) drug target in immuno‐oncology, and for neurodegenerative diseases. Preladenant and its derivatives belong to the most potent A2AAR antagonists displaying exceptional selectivity. While crystal structures of the human A2AAR have been solved, mostly using the A2A‐StaR2 protein that bears 9 point mutations, co‐crystallization with Preladenant derivatives has so far been elusive. We developed a new A2AAR construct harboring a single point mutation (S913.39K) which renders it extremely thermostable. This allowed the co‐crystallization of two novel Preladenant derivatives, the polyethylene glycol‐conjugated (PEGylated) PSB‐2113, and the fluorophore‐labeled PSB‐2115. The obtained crystal structures (2.25 Å and 2.6 Å resolution) provide explanations for the high potency and selectivity of Preladenant derivatives. They represent the first crystal structures of a GPCR in complex with PEG‐ and fluorophore‐conjugated ligands. The applied strategy is predicted to be applicable to further class A GPCRs.
Thermal induced intrinsic self‐healing in epoxy based elastomer coatings provided by disulfide metathesis reactions
Authors: Eidi Morteza , Zamani Pedram Mona
Published: February 2022

Self‐heal epoxy coatings have been prepared using sulfur–sulfur metathesis reaction as an intrinsic method for inducing self‐healing property. Inducing of the self‐healing property was carried out via insertion of the 3,3′‐dithiodipropionic acid as chain extender functionalized with bisphenol A diglycidyl ether. According to the results, the prepared coatings were capable to recover their mechanical properties after damage and heal their surface as well. Noticeably, the healing yield of the coatings was about 43% and 76% for the samples containing 0.5 and 1.0 equivalents of chain extender, respectively. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of the self‐heal coating were modified in the presence of the disulfide bonds from 0.22 MPa to 1.25 MPa. Regarding to the increment of the crosslinking density due to the presence of the sulfur containing chain expender, the average molecular weights between crosslinkings was reduced from 43.75 × 103 g mol−1 in epoxy sample to 4.61 × 103 g mol−1 in sulfur containing sample. The proposed facilitate method for inducing the self‐healing property make it applicable to a wide range of epoxy coatings.
Synthesis of cinnamils and quinoxalines and their biological evaluation as anticancer agents
Authors: Wang Ruei‐Yu , Li Cai‐Wei , Cho Shu‐Tse , Chang Chun‐Hao , Chen Jih‐Jung , Shih Tzenge‐Lien
Published: February 2022

We synthesized multiple cinnamils and quinoxalines to evaluate their anticancer activity. Cinnamils were used as precursors for quinoxalines via condensation with 1,2‐diaminobenzene. Among the 26 synthesized compounds reported in this article, we found that cinnamil 3l exhibited its inhibitory effect with an IC50 value of 1.45 ± 0.98 μM, significantly higher than doxorubicin (8.5 ± 0.85 μM) against pancreatic cancer cells (PANC‐1). Additionally, cinnamil 3l (IC50 10.98 ± 3.63 μM) showed less cytotoxicity than doxorubicin to Hs68 cells (0.92 ± 1.11 μM). The colony formation assay demonstrated that 3l obviously decreased the PANC‐1 cell viability, and Western blot assays confirmed that 3l markedly induced apoptosis of PANC‐1 cells through Bax, Bcl‐2, and caspase 3 signaling cascades. These results demonstrate that cinnamil 3l has great potential to be further developed as a promising chemotherapeutic agent for pancreatic cancer.
Recent Advances in the Fluorescent Probes for Flavinase Activity: Design and Applications
Authors: Yang Yiting , Zhai Hongchen , Yuan Jie , Wang Kui , Zhang Hua
Published: February 2022

Flavinases, including monoamine oxidase (MAO‐A/MAO‐B), quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1), thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), nitroreductase (NTR) and so on, are important redox enzymes in organisms. They are considered as biomarkers of cell energy metabolism and cell vitality. Importantly, their aberrant expression is related to various disease processes. Therefore, the accurate measurement of flavinase is useful for the early diagnosis of diseases, which has aroused great concern in the scientific community. Various methods are also available for the detection of flavinases, fluorescence probes are considered to be one of the best detection methods due to their easy and accurate sensing capability. This review aims to introduce the advances in the design and application of flavinase probes in the last five years. This study focuses on analyzing the design strategies and reaction mechanisms of flavinases fluorescent probes and discusses the current challenges, which will further advance the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for flavinase‐related diseases.
Hydrometrocolpos and postaxial polydactyly in a girl newborn: A case report
Authors: Day Morgan L. , Avila Crystal C. , Novak Dawn L.
Published: February 2022

This case report is of a 35‐week female neonate with a cystic abdominal mass. Physical examination was notable for post‐axial polydactyly, distended abdomen, and abnormal urethral opening. Differential diagnosis includes Bardet–Biedl Syndrome (BBS), an autosomal recessive ciliopathy. Genetic panel revealed she was a carrier for a BBS mutation.
Retinal hemorrhage of late post‐COVID‐19 and post‐vaccine‐related pathogenic mechanisms: A new challenge for ophthalmologist in COVID era
Authors: Amin Mohammad Ashraful , Nahin Sabrina , Dola Taslima Ahmed , Afrin Sadia , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: February 2022

COVID‐19 infection results in extensive organ dysfunction. Thrombotic problems linked to COVID‐19 disease are common and can affect the retina. We will report a case of retina hemorrhage with possibility of linkage between COVID‐19 infection and immunization to determine whether these abnormalities are causal or coincidental.
Pool Boiling Heat Transfer on a Micro‐Structured Copper Oxide Surface with Varying Wettability
Authors: Sen Pulak , Kalita Sanjib , Sen Dipak , Das Sudev , Das Ajoy Kumar
Published: February 2022

Copper surface is modified to copper oxide surface for high heat flux electronics applications. Copper oxide surface is prepared by chemical etching using NaOH and (NH4)2S2O8. A pool boiling experiment is conducted to investigate the critical heat flux (CHF) and boiling heat transfer coefficient (BHTC). The results indicate that BHTC of all copper oxide surfaces are enhanced remarkably. Bubble dynamics are also analyzed by means of a high‐speed camera. Bubble visualization demonstrates that the active nucleation sites for the copper oxide surfaces are higher than the bare copper surface.
Highly Sensitive “Off/On” EPR Probes to Monitor Enzymatic Activity
Authors: Elkhanoufi Sabrina , Stefania Rachele , Alberti Diego , Baroni Simona , Aime Silvio , Geninatti Crich Simonetta
Published: February 2022

The assessment of unregulated level of enzyme activity is a crucial parameter for early diagnoses in a wide range of pathologies. In this study, we propose the use of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) as an easy method to probe carboxylesterase (CE) enzymatic activity in vitro. For this application, were synthesized two amphiphilic, nitroxide containing esters, namely Tempo‐C12 (T‐C12) and Tempo‐2‐C12 (T‐2‐C12). They exhibit low solubility in water and form stable micelles in which the radicals are EPR almost silent, but the hydrolysis of the ester bond yields narrows and intense EPR signals. The intensity of the EPR signals is proportional to the enzymatic activity. CEs1, CEs2 and esterase from porcine liver (PLE) were investigated. The obtained results show that T‐C12 and T‐2‐C12‐containing systems display a much higher selectivity toward the CEs2, with a Limit of Detection of the same order of those ones obtained with optical methods.
Immobilization of 3,5‐dimethylphenyl carbamate of cellulose and amylose on silica by photochemical and thermal radical processes
Authors: Francotte Eric , Huynh Dan
Published: February 2022

The immobilization of cellulose 3,5‐dimethylphenyl carbamate and amylose 3,5‐dimethylphenyl carbamate on silica gel carrier was achieved by using photochemical and thermal processes. Both approaches provide an easy access to materials which were applied as chiral stationary phases (CSPs) for the chromatographic resolution of racemic molecules.

The influence of parameters such as irradiation time and solvent on immobilization effectiveness was investigated. For the thermal processes, azo‐bis‐isobutyrontrile and di‐tert‐butyl peroxide were evaluated as radical initiators. The influence of parameters such as amount of radical initiator, solvent, temperature, and further handling operations on the immobilization rate was examined. The chiral recognition ability and the overall performance of the prepared immobilized phases were evaluated by injection of a series of racemic compounds onto packed HPLC columns. As there is almost no limitation of organic solvent types that can be used as mobile phases with the immobilized CSPs, they can be applied under chromatographic conditions which are prohibited with the corresponding non‐bonded CSPs. This extended applicability considerably broadens the options for improving enantioselectivity and resolving chiral compounds which are not or only poorly soluble in the conventional mobile phases.
The ethical challenges of artificial intelligence‐driven digital pathology
Authors: McKay Francis , Williams Bethany J , Prestwich Graham , Bansal Daljeet , Hallowell Nina , Treanor Darren
Published: February 2022

Digital pathology – the digitalisation of clinical histopathology services through the scanning and storage of pathology slides – has opened up new possibilities for health care in recent years, particularly in the opportunities it brings for artificial intelligence (AI)‐driven research. Recognising, however, that there is little scholarly debate on the ethics of digital pathology when used for AI research, this paper summarises what it sees as four key ethical issues to consider when deploying AI infrastructures in pathology, namely, privacy, choice, equity, and trust. The themes are inspired from the authors' experience grappling with the challenge of deploying an ethical digital pathology infrastructure to support AI research as part of the National Pathology Imaging Cooperative (NPIC), a collaborative of universities, hospital trusts, and industry partners largely located across the North of England. Though focusing on the UK case, internationally, few pathology departments have gone fully digital, and so the themes developed here offer a heuristic for ethical reflection for other departments currently making a similar transition or planning to do so in the future. We conclude by promoting the need for robust public governance mechanisms in AI‐driven digital pathology.