bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A versatile modular plant for converting biogas into advanced biofuels
Authors: Negri Francesco , Fedeli Matteo , Barbieri Massimo , Manenti Flavio
Published: August 2022

The patented technology is a novel, portable, non-invasive, and flexible technical solution for converting biogas into valuable chemical compounds, such as bio-methanol and bio-dimethyl ether (bio-DME). It consists of compact modules, connected to each other through a flange-valve-flange system, to be installed downstream of an existing traditional biogas plant.The two main sections of the module are those of reforming and synthesis: in the first, the biogas is converted into bio-syngas (H2/CO/CO2), while in the second the bio-syngas is transformed into advanced biofuels such as bio-methanol and bio-DME. Parts of the synthesis module can always be changed with small investments to switch the final products, according to local market needs and price volatilities. Downstream in the synthesis section, it is possible to add a module for separating and purifying the chemical products.The technology has been validated at the 0.15 MWe industrial scale.
How can a historically intensively used agricultural landscape preserve diversity of Orthoptera assemblages: a case study in the Carpathian Lowland (East Hungary)
Authors: Jakab Dóra Arnóczkyné , Nagy Antal
Published: August 2022

Protecting biodiversity of agricultural lowlands is one of the main topics of European nature conservation. Understanding the functioning of agricultural habitats is necessary since they cover a significant part of the landscape, but studies rather focus on the remaining semi-natural sites. Orthoptera assemblages, which are sensitive indicators of habitat structure and conservation value, were studied in a traditional intensively used agricultural area (it has been cultivated for several decades or even 250 years) to assess how these habitats can preserve insect diversity. In the mainly unknown area 29 Orthoptera species, including protected Gampsocleis glabra Her., Acrida ungarica Her. and Celes variabilis Pal. were recorded. We identified four assemblages and their character species reflecting intensity of habitat use. Assemblages of agricultural sites differed from the assemblages of semi-natural habitats. Revealing their quantitative composition, ratios of lifeforms, character species, and use of Grasshopper Conservation Indexes (GCI) helped to identify agricultural sites that can effectively preserve natural insect diversity.
Retinex-Based Light Source Generation for Relighting up Night Photography
Authors: Oishi Sou , Fukushima Norishige
Published: August 2022

Purpose: The lighting up of buildings is one of the entertainments that make a city more colorful, and photographer sometimes changes the lighting by using photo-editing applications. This paper proposes a method for automatically performing such an application that follows the Retinex theory. The Retinex theory indicates that the complex scenes caught by the human visual system are decomposed into illumination and reflectance components. Many Retinex applications take much cost into the decomposition, while we show that the decomposition accuracy is less dependent on the final output for the nightscape relighting. Methods: First, we propose an extracting method of a relighting saliency map using Retinex with edge-preserving filtering. Second, we propose a sampling method to specify the lighting area in the limited area. We show that relighting within the limited area can be represented without illumination and reflectance decomposition. We then show that this fact can be exploited to realize this application using a simple Retinex decomposition of the single-scale Retinex with fast edge-preserving filters to represent various lighting effects. Results: Experimental results show that the proposed sampling method is successful in keeping the illuminated points in bright locations and equally spaced. Also, the proposed various diffusion method can enhance night skyline photographs with various expressions. Conclusion: In this paper, we proposed a relighting method for night skyline images based on the Retinex theory. Unlike typical Retinex applications, the proposed method simplifies the process by carefully extracting the lighting points instead of performing a complex illumination and reflectance decomposition and allows various effects using various diffusion methods.
PERCEPTION TOWARDS COVID APPROPRIATE BEHAVIORS - A CROSS SECTIONAL SURVEY AMONG NURSING STUDENTS FROM SOUTH INDIA
Authors:   Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Sri Sidhartha Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, T. Begur. Nelamangala. Bangalore., K Lohit , Kunnoor Nitin ,   Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, MR Medical College, Kalaburagi., Jose Maria ,   Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Jubliee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala., KR Vidya ,   Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine , Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical College and Research Institute, Bangalore.
Published: August 2022

Background: 2019-nCoV (also called SARS-CoV-2) is a single stranded RNA virus comingunder the same genus beta coronavirus as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1(SARS-CoV-1) and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Adherence to COVID-19 appropriate behavior plays a crucial element in tackling the pandemic crisis. Objectives: To assess the knowledge, perception and attitude and associated factors towards COVID appropriate behaviours among the nursing students. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among representative sample of nursing students (n=79) aged 18 years or more between May to July 2021. Data on COVID appropriate behaviours based on guidelines published in the official website by the Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Government of India were collected online using a self administered andsemi structured questionnaire. The descriptive and inferential statistics were analysed using SPSS version 22. Results: Among 79 participants, 452 (78.4%) were from urban residences and 47 (59.4%) were from nuclear families. The majority of them (79.7%) perceived COVID 19 as a serious condition. Newspapers (54%) and social media (47%) were considered as significant sources of information on COVID appropriate behaviours.
MEDICATION-FREE MANAGEMENT OFTYPE 2 DIABETESMELLITUS: EMPIRICAL AND MODELING-BASED CASE STUDY
Authors:   The Arab Academic Institute of Education, Beit-Berl College, Kfar Saba 44905, Israel., Huleihil Mahmoud
Published: August 2022

This study addresses the possibility of medication-freemanagement of type 2 diabetesmellitus (DM). Typical glucose values, in terms of hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test resultsof less than6.0%, could be attained by consuming low carbohydrate meals and participating in physical exercises without pharmaceutical adjuncts. Four to six meals should be consumed in 12 hours, preferably during the days activities between six in the morning and six in the evening. It is important to walk for about one hour after the main meal, although a better practice is to wait two to three hours after the main meal before doing so. Such an approach assures low glucose levels at night. When possible, lifting weights to develop muscles can help regulate sugar levels in the blood and maintain homeostasis. There are empirical findings that HbA1C values could be reduced by 0.5 in 23 days. These findings were supported by simulation results based on Bergmans minimal model ofblood glucose control. The minimal model is modified to address the role of low-carb meals and physical exercises by simulation and is used to study the effects of different model parametersthat represent the liver and muscles. Simulation-based sensitivity analysis is presented, showing positive results toward mitigating type 2 DM.
PRIAPISME NEONATAL IDIOPATHIQUE : A PROPOS DUN CAS
Authors:   Service Dhematologie Et Oncologie, Hopital National de Niamey, Niger., Abass Albana Imrana , Soumana Diaouga Hamidou ,   Service De Gynecologie Obstetrique, Maternite Issaka Gazobi de Niamey, Niger., Mansour Issoufou Hama Sidi ,   Service De Chirurgie Pediatrique, Hopital National Amirou Boubacar Diallo de Niamey, Niger., Boka Tounga Yahouza ,   Service De Gynecologie Obstetrique, Maternite Issaka Gazobi de Niamey, Niger., Migitaba Hassane Moctar ,   Service De Gynecologie Obstetrique, Maternite Issaka Gazobi de Niamey, Niger., Nayama Madi ,   Service De Gynecologie Obstetrique, Maternite Issaka Gazobi de Niamey, Niger.
Published: August 2022

Idiopathic neonatal priapism is a rare pathology with an estimated incidence of 15/10,000 births. Despite the distressing clinical picture, it is a relatively benign pathology. We report a case of idiopathic neonatal priapism treated in our department, in a newborn on day 1 of life with no known pathological family history. The clinical picture was characterized by a permanent, painless erection of the penis with no associated signs or change in skin color. No etiology was revealed by the clinical and paraclinical assessment. Treatment consisted of simple monitoring. Complete detumescence is obtained after fourteen days of evolution. The prognosis was favorable with conservation of the physiological erection at six months of follow-up.
Why leaders are important for cross-functional teams: Moderating role of supportive leadership on knowledge hiding
Authors: Don Ton Anh , Hammerl Laszlo , Weber Dennis , Kremer Oliver , Szabo-Szentgroti Gabor
Published: August 2022

Knowledge exchange has been a critical factor for cross-functional teams to master different tasks and problems and promote innovation. Cross-functional teams rely on the direct cooperation of senior employees from different departments, often with converging aims, leadership, culture, and communication. However, with the ever-increasing complexity in business decisions, decision-makers invested in the manufacturing industry sector need the support of a diverse team as an advisory tool to put well-thought measures into effect. The aim of this study is to analyze how cross-functional teams in commerce and industry rely on different key performance indicators to limit knowledge hiding. This paper conducted a quantitative study of 130 individual participants working in cross-functional teams in Germany. It also adapted multiple linear regression and used a conceptual model impacting the relationship between team performance, trust, and organizational citizenship behavior, including the moderating role of leadership. The disruptive effect of knowledge hiding was contextualized. The results indicate that team performance is directly affected by the selected variables. Furthermore, it is limited to knowledge hiding, while trust and the use of adequate leadership help to retain knowledge retention. Lastly, organizational citizenship behavior was found as the paramount factor, supported by individually tailored leadership methods, to foster information exchange and thereby promote organization-wide learning.
Evaluation of a sand filter material for road runoff treatment– pilot-scale field trial focused on copper and zinc removal
Authors: Hallberg Magnus , Renman Agnieszka , Berndtsson Liselott , Renman Gunno
Published: August 2022

The effects of stormwater discharges on receiving aquatic environments and the need for their purification were highlighted by an EU court in May 2020. The ruling stated the need for removal of dissolved pollutants, which justifies field studies for development of far-reaching methods for runoff treatment. In this study, a standard sand was used as medium for road runoff filtration and removal of dissolved and particle-bound (<0.45 μm) zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu). Data included 24 road runoff events, mimicking the flow variations and pollutant emissions over a seven-month period. The findings showed that sand can be used to remove Zn and Cu from road runoff in a gravity fed treatment system at a surface load ranging from 16.8 to 201 L m−2 h−1. The removal of total Zn and Cu was 93 and 67%, respectively. Dissolved Zn was efficiently removed by the sand (87%), however not Cu (19%). The sand efficiently removed total suspended solids (TSS) from the maximum occurring 443 mg L−1 to below 5 mg L−1. No head loss due to the TSS loadings was observed. The sand's potential to remove the investigated metals was shown, but in the longer term, effluent concentrations may exceed permitted values.
An overall optimization and solution framework for urban historical and future DRIF under climate change
Authors: Ding XingChen , Liao WeiHong , Wang Hao , Wang Hao , Lei XiaoHui , Yang JiaLi
Published: August 2022

The estimation and application of Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curves depend on the assumption of stationarity of the rainfall series, which is that the intensity and frequency of extreme hydrological events remain unchanged in the future. Climate change will have a significant impact on the collection and utilization of rainwater and its spatial characteristics. When the Gray-Green infrastructure is designed, if only historical precipitation is adopted to calculate the urban design rainstorm intensity formula (DRIF) and the total annual runoff control rate, it may be difficult to meet the demand of future precipitation changes on the city's ability to accommodate rainfall. Therefore, it is very important to study the impact of climate change on the IDF curve. This study proposes an overall optimization solution framework for historical and future DRIF. The impact of the extreme value on the IDF curve during the historical period is analyzed. The calculation method of the IDF curve in the future period is established. The changes of the rainstorm intensity in the historical and future period (SSP1-2.6,SSP2-4.5,SSP3-7.0,SSP5-8.5) were analyzed for the 15 durations and eight return periods in Beijing, China. The results of this study show that the nondominated sorting and local search (NSLS) has the best accuracy in fitting the statistical samples of precipitation for different durations. The best methods to judge and process the extreme value of the statistical sample are Z-score and average value of series greater than critical value (AVG). Under the four SSP scenarios, the estimated IDF value is larger than the observed value in the historical period. The results of the equivalent return period calculated using the DRIF show that the the four SSP scenarios are smaller than the historical period for the return period greater than five years. Taking 120 min of short-duration precipitation as an example, the 100-year equivalent return periods of the observation under the four SSP scenarios are 35-, 20-, 54-, and 17-years, respectively. The research can provide valuable reference for the design and planning of the drainage facility under climate change.
Photocatalytic and adsorptive performance of polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan/TiO2 composite for antibiotics removal: single- and multi-pollutant conditions
Authors: N Neghi , Kumar Mathava
Published: August 2022

A polymer-TiO2 macro composite (i.e., PVA-CS-TiO2) was synthesized via chemical precipitation of PVA-CS-TiO2 blend in alkali/solvent medium and applied for the removal of three model antibiotics (i.e., metronidazole (MNZ), ceftiofur (CEF) and tetracycline (TET)), as single compound and multi-compound conditions. The photocatalytic and adsorptive removals of antibiotics (concentrations of 0.1, 1 and 10 mg L−1) by the composite in an UV reactor system (32 W UV-C power, 0.3 g L−1 of composite) was assessed through kinetic models. Antibiotics adsorption followed pseudo-second-order kinetics, and the order of adsorption was MNZ > TET > CEF. On the other hand, the hydrophilic MNZ was degraded faster compared to hydrophobic CEF and TET drugs. Moreover, UV reactor system exhibited antagonistic behavior under multi-compound condition. Micro-toxicity of antibiotics was performed using bioluminescent bacterium Vibrio fischeri and EC50 of CEF, TET and MNZ were found to be 18.25 mg L−1, 173.8 mg L−1, and 668.6 mg L−1, respectively. However, the relative toxicity levels of PVA-CS-TiO2 and treated effluent were well with the limits as inferred from the microtoxicity analysis. Thus, synthesized biocompatible composite exhibited structural stability, consistent performance for three photocatalytic cycles for all antibiotics at a minimal catalyst loading, easily retained using metallic tea strainer and does not exhibit microtoxicity has a scope for real-time applications.
DEMAND AND MARKET CONCENTRATION FOR BRANDED SAUSAGE ROLLS IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Adedeji Adejoke Modinat , Sowunmi Fatai Abiola
Published: August 2022

Branded sausage is one of the fast foods, and the demand for it in Nigeria is increasing substantially due to growing household affluence and its availability and affordability. The study examined the market concentration and the need for branded sausage rolls in Oyo State using 290 respondents (buyers and sellers) collected through a three-stage sampling procedure. The study affirmed that Gala (small and big) had the highest percentage (41.3%) of consumers while bigi and the rite spicy had 22.7% and 21.4%, respectively. The yum-yum brand had the lowest consumers percentage (1.8%). The average amount consumers spent on gala (big and small size) per month was ₦824.18 followed by rite spicy and bigi with a moderate amount of ₦582.98 and ₦520 per month. Gala (small and big) had the highest inequality in sales revenue (0.42) while bigi had the least (0.26). The market concentration of gala was the highest (50%) while bigi had the least (40%). The market share of the gala (big and small size) was 54.4 percent followed by rite spicy and bigi with 23.9 and 21.1 percent, respectively. Monthly income, taste, quality, price, and availability influenced consumers' preference for sausage rolls while monthly payment, household size and brand consumed determined consumers' monthly expenditure on sausage rolls in the study area. The yum-yum brand had the lowest consumer’s percentages in the sausage market at 1.8%. Producers of other sausage rolls brands should develop strategies that would ensure fair competition with other brands so that the dominance of some brands can be reduced to prevent the emergence of a monopolist in the sausage rolls market. The need for market segmentation based on consumers’ income is recommended.
THE ANCILLARY PRODUCTS OF RUBBER (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg.): POTENTIAL RESOURCES TO ENHANCE SUSTAINABILITY
Authors: Junaidi J
Published: August 2022

Indonesia is one of the major natural rubber-producing countries. The low rubber prices severely affect rubber agribusiness as farmers and rubber companies depend on latex as the only source of income. This condition leads to an unprecedented challenge to rubber agribusiness sustainability. This systematic review aims to encourage the use of part of rubber plants as a source of revenue for rubber plantations to maintain their sustainability. Non-latex parts of the rubber plant can be utilized, including latex serum and skim waste, parts of rubber seeds, and rubberwood. The strength of the ancillary product of Hevea brasiliensis is that the raw materials are abundant, yet the weakness is that the rubber companies have no experience exploiting them. The opportunity for utilizing is widely open, as many methods have been researched; however, the main thread is how to compete with the existing products. Therefore, careful market research and feasibility studies are recommended.
Karakteristik Kacang-Kacangan Tipe Tegak untuk Alternatif Substitusi Kedelai (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Junietha Anggela Amelia , Anggraeni Listy , Saptadi Darmawan
Published: August 2022

Tanaman kacang-kacangan dikenal sebagai sumber protein yang penting dalam tubuh manusia, salah satunya kacang kedelai. Kementrian Pertanian memperkirakan produksi kacang kedelai di Indonesia akan terus menurun sejak tahun 2021 hingga 2024. Adanya substitusi kacang kedelai dengan kacang lainnya diharapkan dapat menjadi alternatif pengganti tanaman kedelai. BPTP Jawa Timur memiliki beberapa koleksi genotip kacang-kacang tipe tegak dan tipe merambat yang belum dikarakterisasi untuk dapat digunakan sebagai alternatif pengganti kacang kedelai. Tujuan dilakukan penelitian ini yaitu untuk mendapatkan informasi mengenai karakteristik morfologi dan agronomis 8 genotip kacang-kacangan tipe tegak dan mengetahui potensi kacang yang dapat menjadi alternatif pengganti kedelai.Penelitian dilaksanakan pada bulan Maret-Agustus 2021 di Balai Pengkajian Teknologi Pertanian Jawa Timur (BPTP Jatim). Hasil pengamatan menunjukkan bahwa tanaman kacang Koro merupakan kacang yang berpotensi sebagai alternatif pengganti kedelai dilihat dari nilai kandungan protein sebesar 32,2%, serta potensi produksi seperti bobot polong segar 998,7 g, bobot polong kering 935 g, dan bobot biji kering 407,6 g.
Uji Hasil dan Kualitas Dua Varietas Jagung Manis (Zea mays L. var. Saccharata) pada Pemberian Pupuk Tunggal dan Majemuk
Authors: Pratama Hardhika , Islami Titiek , Rifianto Azis
Published: August 2022

Di Indonesia jagung manis ini cukup digemari sebagai keperluan konsumsi namun hasil produksinya di Indonesia cukup rendah sehingga perlu dilakukan upaya untuk meningkatkan hasil produksinya yaitu dengan pemberian pupuk dengan dosis yang tepat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mempelajari interaksi antara dua varietas jagung manis dan pemberian pupuk tunggal dan majemuk terhadap hasil dan kualitas dari jagung manis. Penelitian ini dilakukan di lahan PT Bisi International, Tbk, Desa Tengger Lor, Kecamatan Kunjang, Kabupaten Kediri, Provinsi Jawa Timur. Kegiatan penanaman dilakukan pada bulan Maret hingga Juni 2020. Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Petak Terbagi (Split Plot Design) dengan tiga kali ulangan dan terdiri dari dua faktor perlakuan. Faktor yang pertama yaitu varietas (v) yang terdiri dari dua macam varietas jagung manis yaitu V1 = varietas Golden Boy dan V2 = varietas Prima. Faktor yang kedua yaitu perlakuan pemberian pupuk (p) yang terdiri dari lima taraf yaitu P0 = Kontrol, P1 = Pupuk N 200 kg/ha, P2 = Pupuk P 150 kg/ha, P3 = Pupuk 150 kg/ha, P4 = Pupuk K 150 kg/ha, P4 = Pupuk NPK 250 kg/ha. Pengamatan pada penelitian ini meliputi karakter hasil dan komponen hasil jagung manis. Jagung manis dengan pemberian pupuk tunggal dan majemuk menunjukkan adanya respon atau interaksi terjadi yang mempengaruhi kualitas hasil dua varietas yang diuji. Respon pertumbuhan dan daya simpan jagung manis yang lebih baik pada pemberian pupuk majemuk dibandingkan pupuk tunggal. Dari kedua varietas yang diuji varietas Prima lebih unggul dibandingkan varietas Golden Boy.
Development of the Emoji Faces Pain Scale and Its Validation on Mobile Devices in Adult Surgery Patients: Longitudinal Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Li Lili , Wu Sicheng , Wang Jian , Wang Chunchun , Zuo Weixin , Yu Liping , Song Jiangang
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Measuring pain on digital devices using classic unidimensional pain scales such as the visual analog scale (VAS), numerical rating scale (NRS), and faces pain scale (FPS) has been proven to be reliable and valid. Emoji are pictographs designed in colorful form following the Unicode standard. It could be more beneficial to use emoji as faces of FPS on digital devices because emoji can easily fit on most devices and emoji are open-source so no approval would be needed before use. With a concise and user-friendly design, the emoji faces pain scale (Emoji-FPS) might be more generalizable to a wider population and more preferred by digital device users.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to develop an Emoji-FPS as well as to evaluate its reliability, validity, and preference on mobile devices in adult patients who underwent surgery.

METHODS

A modified Delphi technique with 2 rounds of web-based surveys was applied to obtain panelists’ consensus on the sequence of emoji that can best represent 6 levels of pain. The initial candidate sequences of emoji for the Delphi process were constructed referring to 2 well-validated FPSs (Wong-Baker FACES pain rating scale [Wong-Baker FACES] and faces pain scale-revised [FPS-R]). Then, a prospective cohort of patients scheduled to receive perianal surgery was recruited and asked to complete a web-based questionnaire on a mobile device at 5 time points (before surgery [T1], wake up after surgery [T2], 4 hours after surgery [T3], the second day after surgery [T4], and 15 minutes after T4 [T5]). The 4 well-validated pain scales (NRS, VAS, Wong-Baker FACES, and FPS-R) were used as reference scales.

RESULTS

After 2 rounds of surveys on 40 Delphi panelists, an Emoji-FPS was finally determined to represent 6 pain levels (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10) from “no hurt” to “hurts worst.” For validation, 300 patients were recruited and 299 were analyzed, the mean age of whom was 38.5 (SD 10.5) years, and 106 (35.5%) were women. For concurrent validity, the Emoji-FPS was highly correlated with 4 reference scales with Spearman correlation coefficient ρ ranging from 0.91 to 0.95. Excellent agreements were observed between 4 versions of Emoji-FPS (iOS, Android, Microsoft, and OpenMoji), with weighted κ coefficients ranging from 0.96 to 0.97. For discriminant validity, patients’ mean preoperative Emoji-FPS score (T1) was significantly higher than their postoperative Emoji-FPS score (T4) with a difference of 1.4 (95% CI 1.3-1.6; P<.001). For test-retest reliability, Emoji-FPS scores measured at T4 and T5 were highly correlated with a ρ of 0.91. The Emoji-FPS was mostly preferred, followed by the Wong-Baker FACES, FPS-R, NRS, and VAS.

CONCLUSIONS

The Emoji-FPS is reliable and valid compared with traditional pain scales in adult surgery patients.
Promoting Health Resiliency during COVID-19 Disaster: The Relevance of Indigenous Land-based Practice (Preprint)
Authors: Datta Ranjan , Datta Prarthona , Datta Prokriti , Chapola Jebunnessa
Published: August 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

The COVID-19 pandemic, like a natural disaster, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant effect on the vulnerable portion of society, particularly on Indigenous and visible minority immigrants in Canada. While Indigenous and visible minority people are very diverse and experienced the impact of Covid-19 very differently, both groups have a significant lack of equal access to pandemic resiliency. As a visible minority immigrant family in Indigenous land in Treaty 6 territory, we (as a colour settler family in Indigenous land known as Canada) learned Indigenous land-based education (ILBE) from Indigenous Elders and Knowledge-keeper's land-based stories, traditional knowledge, resiliency, and practice. We have been learning and practicing ILBE to develop resiliency during a natural disaster, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used a land-based learning as a research methodology for learning health wellness from land. We discussed why ILBE matters for building resiliency, resistance, and self-determination within a family and community; how can it help others? We have seen how COVID-19 has created severe negative impacts on mental and physical health. During the high climate change era, many pandemics are yet to come. However, the ILBE can offer us many opportunities to build our resistance and resiliency through decolonizing our ways of knowing and doing.
High consumption of whole grain foods decreases the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease: Framingham Offspring Cohort (Preprint)
Authors: Liu Hong , Wang Kanran , Tang Weimin
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Whole grains (WG) have been widely recognized as healthy foods which were associated with reduced risk of several diseases and mortality, but few prospective studies have examined WG foods consumption and adverse cognitive outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to examine the longitudinal associations between total and individual whole grain (WG) foods intake and the risk of all dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia.

METHODS

This study included 2958 subjects (mean age at baseline was 61±9 years) from the Framingham Offspring cohort. Standardized interviews, physician examinations, and laboratory tests were collected approximately every 4 y and the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was conducted in cycle 5. Proportional hazards models and cubic spline regression examined associations between WG foods and all dementia and AD dementia.

RESULTS

Over an average of 12.6 years of follow-up, there were 322 dementia cases of which 247 were AD dementia. After multivariate and dietary adjustments, individuals with the highest category for total WG foods consumption had a lower risk of all dementia (HR: 0.66; 95%CI: 0.51-0.82) and AD dementia (HR: 0.60; 95%CI: 0.46-0.79) relative to individuals with the lowest category. And the results remained comparable in different subgroups stratifying for age, sex, education, BMI, and smoking status without significant interaction. Moreover, these inverse associations were seen for most individual WG foods except popcorn. A non-linear dose-response association was shown between total WG intake and all dementia and AD dementia where the rate reduction slightly plateaued at more than one and two servings/day respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher consumption of total and several common individual WG foods was significantly associated with a lower risk of all dementia and AD dementia.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00005121, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00005121.
Development and external validation of an evidence-based risk prediction model for peripherally inserted central catheter-related thrombosis (Preprint)
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Tian Xu
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Peripherally inserted central catheter-related thrombosis (PICC-CRT) is one of the most serious complications of PICC, early prediction of PICC-CRT development in cancer patients remains difficult.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop a risk prediction model for PICC-CRT based on evidence-based theory and to validate its predictive performance using retrospectively collected clinical data.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed in target databases to retrieve relevant studies from the inceptions of databases until December 2020. Stata/SE 14.0 software was used for meta-analysis to determine the risk coefficient of each risk factor. The clinical data of 905 adult cancer patients admitted to Chongqing Cancer Hospital between January 2020 and December 2021 were selected for external validation of the risk prediction model.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies involving 32 risk factors were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled results suggested that a total of 13 risk factors were significantly associated with the development of PICC-CRT. Risk prediction model is developed by transforming the OR value of each risk factor using a specific formula: Logit (P) = -2.336 + 0.978*(metastasis) + 1.613*(TPN infusion) + 0.940*(age) + 1.157*(tumor stage) + 1.411*(implanted vein) + 1.157*(catheter tip position) + 0.802*(APTT) + 1.416*(D-dimer) + 1.340*(pathological type) + 0.854*(diabetes) + 1.169*(thrombotic history) + 1.154*(history of chemotherapy during PICC implantation) + 0.285*(hyperlipidemia). The clinical data of 905 patients were substituted into the risk prediction model for external validation. The results showed that the sensitivity was 67.7%, the specificity was 60.4%, the Youden index was 0.281, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.638.

CONCLUSIONS

A risk prediction model for PICC-CRT with 13 risk factors was developed in this study, indicating that the development of the risk prediction model based on evidence-based theory has good extrapolation, scientificity and practicability.
The Art of Narrative Structure and Design—A Comparative Study of Two Biblical Stories
Authors: Li Weihua , Wu Jialei
Published: August 2022

The Hebrew Bible (James, 2011), as a collection of ancient books of history, prophecies, poems and wisdom literatures, contains some of the most intriguing stories and profound wisdom from the ancient world. While majority of these ideas and sapiential teachings have already deeply integrated into our modern cultures, there are yet some that we still struggle in understanding and accepting, such include the origin of sin and evil in the story of Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden and the story of Job with his undeserved sufferings. In this study, we are going to conduct a comparative study of the two biblical stories mentioned based on resources in and out of the Bible. We hope that our study will be able to cast some new lights over these long-discussed topics and to help our readers in their own reading experience.
ENHANCEMENT OF SOLUBILITY OF POORLY SOLUBLE DRUG LANSOPRAZOLE
Authors: MUTHA SWATI , SHELKE VISHAL , GUPTA KANCHAN , KULKARNI MRUNALINI , THAKUR AMRITA , RAI NEETA
Published: August 2022

Objective: To improve the solubility of lansoprazole with solid dispersion (SD) method by using hydrophilic polymer PEG 6000, PEG 15000 and amphiphilic polymer solupus.
Methods: Solid dispersions of lansoprazole were prepared with polymers PEG 6000, PEG 15000 and amphiphilic polymer soluplus, using three methods of preparation–1) solvent melting 2) solvent evaporation and 3) microwave heating method along with different drug: carrier ratios. Performance of the prepared formulations were evaluated for solubility, fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) parameters.
Results: All SDs showed enhancement in solubility of lansoprazole. Solubility and also carrier concentration showed a positive effect on solubility. The lansoprazole-soluplus solid dispersion 1:3 in concentration showed enhanced aqueous solubility when formulated with a solvent melting procedure.
Conclusion: The studies indicated that PEG 6000, PEG 15000 and Soluplus inhibite crystallization of lansoprazole, subsequently form amorphous state in solid dispersion, which is, confirmed via FTIR and DSC results of lansoprazole solid dispersion.
A REVIEW ON PRESENT AND FUTURE OUTLOOK OF 3D PRINTING IN TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS
Authors: GHOSH SOUMYADIP , GANGULY DEBGOPAL , BANERJEE MADHUMITA , CHAKRABORTY PUBALI
Published: August 2022

The suitability of different printing processes for the direct or indirect printing of microneedle arrays, as well as the modification of their surface with drug-containing coatings, has been investigated. 3D printing refers to a group of technologies that use numerically controlled apparatus to create a physical object from a virtual representation. The transdermal route has been introduced as an alternative to the bolus system. The skin is also identified to pose a barrier to permit molecules. The loss that occurred is compensated by transdermal delivery. 3D printing has several advantages in terms of waste reduction, design flexibility, and lowering the high cost. The compatibility of 3D printing techniques with printed medicine products is a factor in their selection. The variety of printable materials that are presently being used or could be utilized for 3D printing of transdermal drug delivery (TDD) devices. 3D printing has the potential to change today's "one size fits all" production and be used across the medication development process. 3D printing technology in the field of transdermal drug development as the system can be advanced in such as way that concentration can be increased or decreased with various drugs used in the printed featuring layers to enhancement of therapeutic efficacy. The impact and limitations of using 3D printing as a production process for transdermal drug delivery devices are required to be evaluated. This review discusses the present and future overlook of 3D printing technology of transdermal drug delivery systems and some advantages and disadvantages of 3D printing technology over conventional drug delivery approach.
ROLE OF VITAMIN D ON ANTI-MULLERIAN HORMONE (AMH) AND POLYMORPHISM OF AMHR II IN INFERTILITY: A REVIEW
Authors: ANJUM ASRA , KUMAR B. SENTHIL
Published: August 2022

Deficiency of vitamin D3 has become common in both developed and developing countries. Vitamin D receptors are found on the granulosa cells of ovarian tissue and its deficiency plays a role in ovarian dysfunction. Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) is generated in the small and growing follicles of ovaries by the granulosa cells. Serum AMH is one of the marker for ovarian reserve. We reviewed the current literature on Vitamin D3 and AMH in present clinical practice. There is a relationship between vitamin D3 and Anti-Mullerian Hormone, which exists at serum as well as genetic level. The AMH gene promoter has vitamin-D responsive elements, which gives the research-based evidence that AMH gene expression is effected by Vitamin D3. This systematical review is done to assess and encapsulate the available proof concerning the correlation between vitamin D3 and AMH and its type II receptor (AMHR II) functioning.
PHARMACOLOGY OF TRIPHALA WITH SPECIAL FOCUS ON THEIR CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS
Authors: K. M. DEVASENA , S. LEKSHMI DEVI , MOHANAN ARUN , N. V. RAMESH
Published: August 2022

This review is based on Ayurvedic texts and online scientific databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct to study use of scientific research methods in ayurvedic formulation Triphala. The following keywords were used: Triphala, terminalia chebula, terminalia bellerica, Phyllanthus embilica, chemical constituents, gallic acid, chebulinic acid, and molecular docking to write this review. Studies about Triphala and their individual drugs as well as their active compounds were concentrated upon. There are many research works being conducted on Triphala and its therapeutic effect. Yet, the need to develop these works to a fully utilisable form for the medical community is not achieved.  This review concludes that Triphala is a treasure that needs to be further evaluated for the betterment of health globally.
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL STUDY OF MAJOR SPECIES FROM LABIATAE FAMILY IN SAUDI ARABIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: AHMAD FAZIL , KAMARAJ BALU , MOHAMED JAMAL MOIDEEN MUTHU , EBRAHIM DOAA , AL HUMOUD SHOUG YOUSIF , EL-SAGHEER AIDA MOHAMMED , EMAM AMINA SABRY ABDALGHAFFAR
Published: August 2022

A review on a medicinal plant belong to family Labiatae has been made in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Among the reported flora in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Labiatae family has the highest species. A total of 23 species of Labiatae family has been reported with high medicinal value. A detail review on 12 species of Labiatae family had done to know their phytochemical constituents, medicinal uses and pharmacological properties. In this review we also explore the total chemical constituents present in each plant with a unique list of 3D chemical structures. (E)-2-Hexenal, 1,8-Cineole, Bicyclogermacrene, Borneol, Bornyl acetate, Bulnesol, Caffeic acid, Camphene, Camphor, Eugenol, Gallic acid, Quercetin, Terpinene, Thymol, etc are the important constituent in these 12 species of Labiatae family. This study also shows that Marrubium vulgare L, Ocimum basilicum L, Origanum majorana and Otostegia fruticosa plants had reported with many medicinal uses and pharmacological properties. Medicinal constituents include the highest phenolic, flavonoid content and strong aromatic essential oil. Further scientific investigations on these 12 species are needed to explore toxicity and clinical efficacy and as well as to explore the therapeutic effects of major secondary metabolites. The summarized information from the current review may be a useful tool for researchers to carry out further study and explore other scientific aspects of the herbs.
THERAPEUTIC AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EFFICACY OF PLANT BOERHAAVIA DIFFUSA–A REVIEW
Authors: U. VIDHYA REKHA , S. BHUMINATHAN , REKHA M. , M.S. NANDHINI , SHANKAR RAVI
Published: August 2022

Boerhavia diffusa (BD) is a herb of rasayana type, according to ayurvedic statements. It is considered to offer anti-aging, anti-disease, and life-strengthening qualities. Diffusa Boerhaavia Linn. Contains a wide variety of therapeutic qualities that have been demonstrated to be beneficial in the treatment of hyperglycemia, inflammation, anxiety, hepatotoxicity, jaundice, and heart problems. Here, we focus on the chemical composition and ethnomedicinal uses of B. diffusa that extend back to ancient times, as well as their future development.
B. diffusa's exceptional antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, and anticarcinogenic capabilities have drawn pioneers in science and medicine. Additionally, this herb possesses medicinal properties, which is a result of the presence of polyphenols and flavanoids, creates it more vital for clinicians and scientists to exploit in order to obtain a better understanding of its biological and pharmacological capabilities.
ROLE OF INNATE IMMUNITY IN PERIODONTAL DISEASE: A BRIEF UPDATE
Authors: KOPPOLU PRADEEP , ABDULSALAM RASHEED
Published: August 2022

Periodontitis disease is the most condition caused by the inflammatory response in the periodontal tissue. It is well known and established that alone the presence of pathogenic bacteria is insufficient in causing periodontitis disease. Immune response and pathways play a key role in the development of lesions and hence it is necessary to understand the same to assess on how the disease is progressing. Further, it is observed that a comprehensive immune response is initiated in cases with periodontal disease. It is essential to summarize the mechanisms of the immune system involved in periodontal disease. Hence, to understand the immune mechanism and pathways that are also contributory factors for the progression of the disease, a database search is conducted with the keywords and two research articles are shortlisted and reviewed in this review article.
EFFECTS OF RADIATION FROM MOBILE PHONES ON FERTILITY AND THE QUALITY OF SEMEN IN REGULAR MOBILE PHONE USERS
Authors: B. SENTHIL KUMAR , BANU KOUSER , SELVI G. PANNEER , VENDHAN K. EZHIL
Published: August 2022

Objective: The use of mobile phones over extended periods of time is associated with genotoxicity. The Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) values of mobile phones indicate that they release less radiofrequency radiation, which is discovered to be within a safer limit. This is the case because SAR values can be measured. The use of mobile phones for extended periods of time may also cause DNA damage in human cells.
Methods: The purpose of this study is to analyse the impact that radiation from mobile phones have on fertility by analysing the quality of the sperm of people who use their phones often.
Results: The research was carried out on a total of 150 people who were between the ages of 20 and 40 and divided into three groups (frequent mobile users, moderate mobile users and less mobile phone users). Prior to collecting samples from the subjects, permission was obtained from them. The researcher conducted individual interviews with each participant in the study in order to collect information for filling out a structured questionnaire. Analyses and comparisons were made between the three groups on the properties of the sperm, including their motility and shape.
Conclusion: The findings of a number of research indicate that radiations released by mobile phones have an effect on male fertility by causing permanent alterations in the morphology of the semen. The current research demonstrates that there is a problem with the fertilising ability of sperm due to defects and changes in sperm morphology. According to the findings of this research, radiations released by mobile phones will have an effect on male fertility. The genotoxic impact may be brought to the attention of regular users of mobile phones and the required measures can be taken via the use of biosensors, which offer a warning signal or alarm when the radiations level exceeds the usual limit.
DESIGN, SYNTHESIS AND EVALUATION OF PYRAZOLE SUBSTITUTED BENZIMIDAZOLE AS AN ANTI-TUBERCULAR, ANTI-FUNGAL AND ANTI-MICROBIAL AGENT
Authors: A. VIJAY BABU , D. PRIYA , M.K. KATHIRAVAN
Published: August 2022

Objective: A series of pyrazole substituted benzimidazole derivatives were subjected to in silico studies to identify a new lead for anti-tubercular, antimicrobial and antifungal activity.
Methods: Docking studies was carried out against Mycobacterium tuberculosis InhA bound with ETH-NAD adduct-PDB ID: 2H9I and Crystal structure of S. aureus TyrRS in complex with SB-239629-PDB ID: 1JIJ.
Results: Based on the binding interactions, binding energies, and ADMET predictions, the most active compounds were produced, consisting of a para-halo phenyl substitution at the pyrazole nucleus that was connected to benzimidazole. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for tuberculostatic activity using microplate Almar blue assay method, and anti-microbial and anti-fungal activity by disc diffusion method.
Conclusion: Compound 5c with chloro substituted phenyl ring on the pyrazole showed moderate anti-tubercular, mild antifungal and anti-microbial activity. This compound may thus represent a novel, multi target molecule having a selective class of anti-tubercular, anti-fungal and anti-microbial activity.
PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ITRACONAZOLE TRANSDERMAL PATCHES CONTAINING SINGLE-PHASE EMULGEL
Authors: ELHASSAN GAMAL OSMAN
Published: August 2022

Objective: Emulgel technique has attempts for preparation of itraconazole (ITZ) transdermal patches of reservoir type using a single-phase system with different polymers of Carbopol 934 and Carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC).

Methods: The transdermal patches were prepared by using eudragit L30 as a polymer and propylene glycol (PG) as plasticizer has been made to predict the mechanism of drug release and absorption based on the order of release. The optimized transdermal patches were characterised as surface morphology, pH, viscosity, spreadability, folding endurance, drug permeation, assay, in vitro dissolution and stability for 3 mo.

Results: The result of the study showed that the transdermal patches prepared with eudragit (8 %) showed 96.11±3.17 % drug release in 24 h and the optimised formulation F8, which had the highest concentration of span 20 and tween 20, displayed the highest percentage of drug penetration. The drug release kinetics was studied, including the Baker-Lonsdale model with in vitro drug permeation data was found that release from non-spherical matrices, the first-order model with non-fickian diffusion.

Conclusion: ITZ administered transdermally might be avoided the number of drawbacks associated with oral delivery and perhaps maintain a relatively constant plasma level during a lengthy course of treatment.