bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Dandelion root infusion on heart function and oxidative status of rats
Authors: Radoman Kristina , Zivkovic Vladimir , Zdravkovic Nebojsa , Chichkova Natalia Vasilievna , Bolevich Sergey , Jakovljevic Vladimir
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to examine the effects of dandelion root infusion on rats' heart function and oxidative status. At the beginning of the experimental protocol Wistar albino rats were randomly classified into two groups (10 rats per group):1. control group – animals who drank tap water; 2. experimental group – animals who drank dandelion root infusion for four weeks. Every morning for four weeks, the animals received a fresh infusion of dandelion in a volume of 250 ml. At the end of the experimental protocol, animals were sacrificed and the hearts were isolated and retrogradely perfused according to the Langendorff technique at a gradually increasing perfusion pressure between 40–120 cm H2O. following parameters of myocardial function: maximum rate of pressure development in the left ventricle (dp/dt max), minimum rate of pressure development in the left ventricle (dp/dt min), systolic left ventricular pressure (SLVP), diastolic left ventricular pressure (DLVP), heart rate (HR). The coronary flow (CF) was measured flowmetrically. Blood samples were collected after sacrificing for determination of oxidative stress biomarkers: nitrite (NO2−), superoxide anion radical (O2−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), the index of lipid peroxidation (TBARS), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Present results indicated that applied dandelion root infusion did not manifest negative impact on all aspects of heart function and perfusion, pointing him out as a safe cardiac supplement. In addition, dandelion consumption was associated with promising results in terms of maintaining the redox balance which proved it`s antioxidant potential.
Investigation on the Anticancer Activity of [6]-Gingerol of Zingiber Officinale and its Structural Analogs Against Skin Cancer Using Molecular Docking
Authors: A Praveena , A Monisha , B Monisha Baby
Published: August 2022

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer caused by uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis and the outermost skin layer. This work aimed at determining the anticancer activity of [6]-Gingerol, a bioactive compound from rhizome of Zingiber officinale and its structural analogs against skin cancer. The ethanolic crude extract of the selected plant was subjected to phytochemical and GC-MS analysis to confirm the presence of the [6]-Gingerol. The anticancer activity of extract was evaluated by MTT (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-y]-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay using the A431 Human skin Adenocarcinoma cell line. The GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of [6]-Gingerol compound and its promising cytotoxicity IC50 was found at 81.46 ug/ml in the MTT assay. Further, the in silico studies used [6]-Gingerol and 21 structural analogs collected from PUBCHEM database to investigate the anticancer potential and drug likeliness property. Skin cancer protein, DDX3X was selected as target which regulates all stages of RNA metabolism. It was docked with 22 compounds which includes [6]-Gingerol and 21 structural analogs, the potent lead molecule was selected based on lowest binding energy value. Thus the [6]-Gingerol and its structure analogs could be used as lead molecule against skin cancer and future drug development process.
Genetic population structure of mud crab (Scylla olivacea) in the Bay of Bengal inferred from mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite markers
Authors: Sarower Mohammed Golam , Hasan Md Mehedi , Okada Shigeru
Published: August 2022

The increasing exploitation of Scylla olivacea, one of the most commercially consumed mud crabs inhabiting mangroves and estuaries of the Bay of Bengal has been seriously experiencing a constant decline of its population. Information on its genetic population structure is crucial for the conservation of S. olivacea. Here, partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene and ten microsatellite loci were used to estimate population genetics from four localities in the Bay of Bangladesh. Genotypes of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) were identified with an 848 bp fragment sequence of COI gene, defining 32 different haplotypes from H1 to H32. H4 was the most frequently observed haplotype, existing in all four localities, while the majority of haplotypes were rare ones, existing in only one individual. Neutrality tests and mismatch analysis conferred a potential population expansion event for this crab species. Diploid genotypes were determined with microsatellite loci, delineating several alleles at each locus, significant linkage disequilibrium and deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The AMOVA analysis of mtDNA suggested a low level of genetic differentiation among four localities (FST = 0.0172, P > 0.05) while microsatellite markers showed a moderate genetic differentiation (FST = 0.0687, P > 0.05). The lower level of differentiation of mtDNA than microsatellites possibly resulted from female-mediated gene flow between populations, biased sex ratios, natural selection, or mutation.
Fermentation conditions of lactobacilli for the production of lactose-free starter culture
Authors: Imanbayeva Madina , Masalimov Zhaksylyk , Sagyndykov Utemurat
Published: August 2022

A total of 16 strains of Lactobacilli were isolated from traditional Kazakh homemade dairy products. The strains identified by 16sRNA sequencing. The aim of this study was to evaluate probiotic properties of Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) Lactobacillus acidophilus (Lb. acidophilus) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (Lb. rhamnosus) cultures were chosen as starter probiotic strains. Tested strains were had strong inhibitory effect against Gram-negative pathogens: Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium), Serratia marcescens (S. marcescens) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). We evaluated the tolerance to various pH values (3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.4, 8.5), survivability in different salt concentrations (2%, 5%, 7%). All isolates survived at pH 3.0–4.0, 5–7% NaCl. The pasteurized milk (PM) was inoculated with two starters lactic acid bacteria performed for 24 h at 37°C. Lb. acidophilus and Lb. rhamnosus starter culture reached cell population of about ~ 8 logs colony forming unit (CFU/mL) during co-culture fermentation, pH in pasteurized milk rapidly decreased to 3.0.
Coronary Flow Velocity Reserve is Decreased in Patients with Restless Leg Syndrome
Authors: Güz Göksel , Demirgan Serdar
Published: August 2022

IntroductionIn this study, we aimed to evaluate coronary endothelial dysfunction in restless legs syndrome(RLS) patients using coronary flow velocity reserve(CFVR) and compared it with healthy controls.MethodIn this study, the participants were divided into two groups as group RLS(n=42) and group HC(n=41). The primary outcome was the CFVR compared between groups. The number of participants with a CFVR value below 2.0 was also evaluated. In addition, a correlation between the international restless legs scale(IRLS) and CFVR, white-blood-cell-count(WBC), C-reactive-protein(CRP) were analyzed. Secondary outcomes were the WBC, hemoglobin, CRP, blood glucose, high-density-lipoprotein(HDL), low-density-lipoprotein(LDL), and creatinine compared between the two groups.ResultsA total of 116 participants were recruited for this study, and 83 participants(42 in Group RLS and 41 in Group HC) were ultimately enrolled. In the group RLS, CFVR was measured lower than healthy controls(p<0.001). When the groups were compared in terms of the number of participants with a CFVR less than 2.0, the difference between the groups was significant(p<0.001, 0/41 in group HC and 14/42 in group RLS).Patients with RLS had higher WBC and CRP values. There was a negative correlation between CFVR and IRLS(p<0.001). The relationship between WBC, CRP, and IRLS was not statistically significant(p=0.691).Discussion/ConclusionWe conclude that RLS patients had lower CFVR compared with healthy controls and there was a negative correlation between the severity of RLS and CFVR which indicates coronary endothelial function. Therefore, we think that it may be beneficial to follow up patients with RLS in terms of coronary heart disease.
Gender and labor supply in Cameroon: an analysis in terms of job satisfaction
Authors: Meka'a Cosmas Bernard , Fotso Silvain Raoul
Published: August 2022

The main objective of this article is to analyze, according to gender, job satisfaction in the labor market in Cameroon. To do this, we use data from the fourth Cameroon Household Survey (ECAM4) carried out in 2014 by the National Institute of Statistics. To estimate the determinants of job satisfaction, we use the estimation of a simple logit model.The results of the logit model regressions and robustness tests show that for the same income, the probability of a man being satisfied at work is less than that of a woman. Moreover, the estimate of the marginal effects shows overall that it is more likely for a woman who works part-time to be satisfied with her job than for a woman who works full-time or for a man.JEL Classification: J16-J28-C25-C13
A predictive scoring system for small diaphragmatic defects in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Terui Keita , Nagata kouji , Yamoto Masaya , Hayakawa Masahiro , Okuyama Hiroomi , Amari Shoichiro , Yokoi Akiko , Furukawa Taizo , Masumoto Kouji , Okazaki Tadaharu , Inamura Noboru , Toyoshima Katsuaki , Koike Yuki , Okawada Manabu , Sato Yasunori , Usui Noriaki
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To develop a predictive score for small diaphragmatic defects in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).Methods: The Japanese CDH Study Group cohort was randomly divided into derivation (n = 397) and validation (n = 396) datasets. Using logistic regression, a prediction model and weighted scoring system for small diaphragmatic defects were created from derivation dataset and validated with validation dataset.Results: Six weighted variables were selected: no hydramnios, 1 point; 1-minute Apgar score of 5–10, 1 point; apex type of the lung (left lung is detected radiographically in apex area), 1 point; oxygenation index < 8, 1 point; abdominal nasogastric tube (tip of the nasogastric tube is detected radiographically in abdominal area), 2 points; no right-to-left flow of ductus arteriosus, 1 point. In validation dataset, rates of small diaphragmatic defects for Possible (0–3 points), Probable (4–5 points), and Definite (6–7 points) groups were 36%, 81%, and 94%, respectively (p < 0.001). Additionally, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and C statistics were 0.78, 0.79, 0.88, 0.76, and 0.45, 0.94, 0.94, 0.70 for Probable and Definite groups, respectively.Conclusion: Our simple scoring system effectively predicted small diaphragmatic defects in infants with CDH and is useful to determine thoracoscopic surgery indication.
Optimization of Hydrolysis in Ethanol Production from Sugarcane Bagasse
Authors: WORKU NIGUS
Published: August 2022

This research involved optimizing acid hydrolysis in the development of ethanol, a promising alternative energy source for restricted crude oil, from lignocellulosic materials (Sugarcane Bagasse). The conversion of Sugarcane Bagasse to ethanol can mainly be accomplished through three process steps: pretreatment of Sugarcane Bagasse for the removal of lignin and hemicellulose, acid hydrolysis of pretreated Sugarcane Bagasse for the conversion of cellulose into sugar reduction (glucose) and fermentation of sugars into ethanol using anaerobic Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The effects of parameters (factors) in the hydrolysis step were investigated and the optimum combination of parameters values (temperature, time, and acid concentration) was set by experimentation. A factorial design of three-factors-at-two-level with a replica of two (23 = 8, 8*2 = 16) was applied to the hydrolysis step to investigate the effect of hydrolysis parameters on the response variable (ethanol yield) using Design-Expert® 13 software.
Efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided percutaneous laser ablation in the treatment of unifocal papillary thyroid microcarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Feng , Yu Zepeng , Sun Xingwei , Wu Qin , Zheng Kun , Qiao Shigang , Fan Xing , Gu Jun
Published: August 2022

AbstractObjective Ultrasound-guided percutaneous laser ablation (US-PLA), as a minimally invasive ablation method, has been widely used in the treatment of benign and malignant tumors. The objective of the current study is to determine the efficacy and safety of US-PLA for unifocal papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC).Methods 18 patients with pathologically confirmed PTMC underwent US-PLA at our institution. Tumor location, tumor volume and thyroid function were evaluated before PLA. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was performed immediately after PLA treatment. Complications, thyroid function, ablation area size and volume, tumor recurrence rate and metastasis rate were recorded. The ablation zone size was also compared with the original tumor size before ablation at each follow-up time point.Results 18 nodules were completely ablated in 18 patients, and postoperative CEUS showed no contrast fill in the ablated areas. 15 patients underwent single needle and single PLA ablation, and 3 cases underwent a second ablation due to incomplete ablation as confirmed by CEUS. All patients tolerated and completed ablation. No serious complications occurred. The maximum diameter and volume of the ablation zone at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after PLA were significantly smaller than the preoperative nodules. The number of tumors that completely disappeared at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months was 1 (5.56%), 6 (38.89%), 4 (61.11%), and 2 (72.22%), respectively. No local tumor recurrence, lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis occurred.Conclusion US-PLA is a safe and effective treatment that may provide a new treatment option for patients with PTMC.
Efficient Thermal Comfort Estimation Employing the C-Mantec Constructive Neural Network Model
Authors: Ortega-Zamorano Francisco , Jerez José M , Rodríguez-Alabarce José , Goreishi Kusha , Franco Leonardo
Published: August 2022

Thermal comfort is the condition in which a person feels satisfaction with the thermal environment through a subjective evaluation. In this work, a compact and efficient estimation of thermal comfort perception by human subjects is performed using a constructive neurocomputational model trained with data generated in controlled conditions with 49 volunteers giving 705 different scenarios, allowing, thanks to the versatility of the model, an interpretable and simple resulting function facilitating an easy handling of the results by people from different fields. The results have been compared with two of the most used standard methods for modelling thermal comfort: Fanger and COMFA models, and they show an improvement in terms of accuracy and mean square error both in a binary decision scenario (comfort or not) as well as for a discrete decision-making case in which different thermal comfort regions are considered. The flexibility of the neural model permits the incorporation of extra subject-related variables that increases further the thermal comfort estimation and, also, permits the implementation of the model in distributed and low cost/low consumption systems.
An evolutionary framework for server placement optimization of large-scale online media services system
Authors: Chen Shaomiao , Li Zhiyong
Published: August 2022

Server placement optimization is one of the important contents of online media services system construction. How the system spends the least deployment cost to provide users with sufficient bandwidth is the optimization goal of the server placement problem. The problem is a NP-hard combinatorial optimization problem. Evolutionary algorithms show outstanding global optimization capabilities in this type of optimization problem compared to constructive heuristic method. However, the high dimensionality of the problem and the complicated evaluation of the deployment plan make the evolutionary algorithm easy to fall into the local optimum, and the computational cost is high. In this research, we propose an evolutionary framework for the server layout optimization, which can greatly improve the optimization efficiency of evolutionary algorithms and reduce the computational cost of the algorithm. In the framework, an offline-learning based approach is used to reduce the search space and a self-examining guided local search method is proposed to improve the search efficiency. Moreover, a look-up table based hybrid approach use to solution evaluation which can reduce computational overhead. Experiment results show that the proposed framework and optimization strategy can greatly improve the evolutionary algorithm search efficiency and has a good convergence performance.
Dynamics of scientific development in dakwah education Indonesia
Authors: Kusnawan Aep , Machendrawaty Nanih
Published: August 2022

Purpose - This study aims to determine the efforts from time to time of scientists in da'wah educational institutions in Indonesia that diligently carry out studies and publications. This research is also expected to avoid disconnection in understanding the history of Da'wah science.Method - This research was conducted through a literature review, with a historical approach. Where several references related to Da'wah scholarship are classified, discussed, and concluded.Result - The results show that the dynamics of scientific development in da'wah education in Indonesia have shown a dynamic history. The dynamism is illustrated by the alternation of da'wah scientific activities carried out and carries a sustainable theme from time to time. Another dynamic is evident in the productivity of the work they write and publish, both in the form of journals and books. The two aspects become one strength so that in its development, it further strengthens the science of Da'wah. As well as being an example for future generations to have enthusiasm and productivity that is more or less like them.Implication - this paper suggests the development of da’wah science that allows correction, addition, and perfection from the development of new science.Originality - This article is a study that shows the transformation from da'wah to da'wah science.***Tujuan - Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui upaya dari waktu ke waktu para ilmuwan di lembaga pendidikan dakwah di Indonesia yang rajin melakukan kajian dan publikasi. Penelitian ini juga diharapkan dapat menghindari keterputusan dalam memahami sejarah ilmu dakwah.Metode - Penelitian ini dilakukan melalui studi pustaka, dengan pendekatan sejarah. Dimana beberapa referensi terkait keilmuan Dakwah diklasifikasikan, dibahas, dan disimpulkan.Hasil - Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dinamika perkembangan keilmuan dalam pendidikan dakwah di Indonesia, telah menunjukkan sejarah yang dinamis. Kedinamisan tersebut tergambar dari silih bergantinya kegiatan keilmuan dakwah yang dilakukan dan mengusung tema berkelanjutan dari waktu ke waktu. Dinamika lain terlihat pada produktivitas karya yang mereka tulis dan terbitkan, baik dalam bentuk jurnal maupun buku. Kedua aspek tersebut menjadi satu kekuatan sehingga dalam perkembangannya semakin memperkuat ilmu dakwah. Serta menjadi contoh bagi generasi penerus untuk memiliki semangat dan produktivitas yang kurang lebih seperti mereka.Implikasi - Artikel ini menyarankan pengembangan keilmuan dakwah yang memungkinkan adanya koreksi, penambahan dan penyempurnaan pengembangan ilmu baru.Orisinalitas - Artikel ini merupakan kajian yang menunjukkan transformasi dari dakwah ke ilmu dakwah.
Combining old and new media for Islamic da’wa activity: The Case of Indonesian Nursi movement
Authors: Adeni Adeni , Koroglu Osman , Hasanah Silviatul
Published: August 2022

Purpose - The purpose of this study was to analyze the combination of old and new media use in Nursi movement da’wah in Indonesia.Method– This study used a qualitative method by an approach of combining old and new media in da’wah. The data were collected by interviewing Indonesian figures, observing the Nursi’s da’wah activities, and reading the Risale-I Nur.Result - The results showed that the Nursi movement emphasized a combination of old and new media in doing da’wah. Old media used the Risale-I Nur as a writing media and the radio as an electronic media. The old one was used for disseminating da’wah messages related to theological (aqidah) and Islam law content suitable to the controlling character of old media. New media such as blog-website, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram were used for conveying da’wah in the form of good words, spiritual advice, and avoiding the issues of khilafiyah (Islamic thoughts differences). It is relevant to the democratic character of new media.Implication –This study suggested that the use of old and new media in da’wah should be combined. It is to contribute to disseminating a comprehensive da’wah. Originality – The study was the first work in the da’wah field that emphasizes the urgency of combining old and new media use in da’wah activities.***Tujuan - Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis kombinasi penggunaan media lama dan baru dalam dakwah gerakan Nursi di Indonesia.Metode– Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan menggabungkan media lama dan media baru dalam dakwah. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui wawancara dengan tokoh-tokoh Nursi Indonesia, mengamati kegiatan dakwah Nursi, dan membaca Risale-I Nur.Hasil - Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa gerakan Nursi menekankan kombinasi media lama dan media baru dalam berdakwah. Media lama yang digunakan adalah Risale-I Nur sendiri sebagai media tulis dan radio sebagai media elektronik. Media lama digunakan untuk menyebarluaskan pesan-pesan dakwah terkait muatan teologis (aqidah) dan syariat Islam yang sesuai dengan karakter pengendali media lama. Media baru seperti blog-website, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, dan Instagram digunakan untuk menyampaikan dakwah dalam bentuk kata-kata yang baik, nasihat spiritual, dan menghindari isu-isu khilafiyah (perbedaan pemikiran Islam). Hal ini relevan dengan karakter demokratis media baru.Implikasi – Penelitian ini menyarankan agar penggunaan media lama dan baru dalam dakwah harus dikombinasikan. Hal ini untuk berkontribusi dalam menyebarluaskan dakwah yang komprehensif.Orisinalitas – Kajian ini merupakan karya pertama dalam bidang dakwah yang menekankan urgensi menggabungkan penggunaan media lama dan baru dalam kegiatan dakwah.
The Urgency of Regulation in the Case of Online Gender-Based Violence in Indonesia
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Cyprien Genie
Published: August 2022

The National women's commission 2020 Annual Notes noted a new type of violence against gender, namely cyber-based or online gender violence. These cases of violence have continued to increase over the past six years, an increase of 300% in Online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV) compared to the 2019. The OGBV case was found on various popular social media platforms. The most common incidents occurred on Facebook, where 39% of women experienced harassment. This figure is then followed by Instagram (23%), Whatsapp (14%), Snapchat (10%), Twitter (9%), and TikTok (6%). This study uses a quantitative approach. The data collection technique used was the survey data collection technique with the self-administered questionnaire method. The number of respon­dents are 109 respondents. The result of this study is that online gender-based violence is influenced by two factors, namely regulatory factors that are still unable to protect women in social media and social factors that have been cultured. There is a perspective that views women as having a weaker position than men. These two factors are the most significant in promoting online gender-based violence in Indonesia. Based on this study's results, the authors recommend the government immediately issue regulations regulating violence against women, especially violence in online media.
Board networks and Russian companies performance: The results of the social network analysis
Authors:   International Laboratory of Intangible-Driven Economy, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Zavertiaeva Marina A. , Popova Polina A. ,   International College of Economics and Finance, National Research University Higher School of Economics
Published: August 2022

Despite the importance of personal ties in the Russian economy, established by researchers, there is still no empirical evidence of the effect that interlocked boards of directors have on company performance. The paper uses the Social Network Analysis technique to provide in-depth study of a company’s position in a network formed by formal connections among board members. The calculated network metrics are used to determine their impact on the company’s financial results. Empirical analysis is provided using data on Russian companies whose shares are included in the Moscow Exchange Broad Market Index for the period from 2014 to 2018. We use return on assets (ROA) and Tobin’s Q as metrics of a company’s performance. The results show that a company’s position in the network, described by degree centrality and closeness centrality, negatively affects the company’s return on assets. At the same time, centrality does not affect Tobin’s Q. An analysis of the specific for the Russian economy features of companies revealed the peculiarities of the influence of a company’s position in the network on the results of companies in the energy and oil and gas industries, as well as companies with a share of directors with experience in government bodies.
Organizational change: From community to firm
Authors:   Institute of Management, Economics and Finance, Kostroma State University, Skarzhinskaya Yelena M. , Tsurikov Vladimir I. ,   Faculty of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Kostroma State Agricultural Academy
Published: August 2022

In the framework of mathematical modelling, we examine a self-governed collective whose members create aggregate income through individual effort, which income is then distributed between members per pre-negotiated relative shares. Each agent’s seeking maximum individual gain leads the collective into a non-efficient Nash equilibrium. To achieve equilibrium in a Pareto-preferable outcome, coordination of efforts is required. In our article, certain members of the collective united by a coalition based on mutual trust coordinate their efforts. We show that under a coalitional strategy aimed at maximizing coalitional gain, individual gains are increased across the collective. However, for each non-cooperated agent the set share in the income still acts as a limiting factor in their choice of invested effort. To increase its efforts further, the coalition offers each noncooperated agent a contract whereby the agent foregoes their share in the income for the benefit of the coalition, in exchange for a reward per their invested effort. As the contract takes effect, the organization undergoes fundamental change consisting in the transformation of a collective of individuals with equal rights into a hierarchical economic organization. We offer a set of models describing such organizational change at the stage of forming the contract and at the subsequent stage of implementation. For the contract formation stage, we identify the conditions under which each agent gains more by entering into the contract than by rejecting it. At the contract implementation stage, we identify the conditions wherein equilibrium values of each agent’s efforts assume their communally-optimal value.
Quantity–quality-based water allocation programming in a reservoir–river system
Authors: Ebrahimi Abbas , Shourian Mojtaba
Published: August 2022

Simulation–optimization approaches are useful methods for the assessment of water resource engineering plans and finding the best management policy at the watershed scale. In this study, to find the optimum operation for a reservoir with the purpose of satisfying water demands while meeting the water quantity and quality criteria, a generic reservoir and river basin simulation model (MODSIM) is coupled with the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm leading to construct the PSO–MODSIM model. With the decision variables of the reservoir's monthly releases, the objective function is to maximize the supply for downstream demands while keeping the electrical conductivity (EC) in the river flow lower than a predefined level at the downstream checkpoint, which is a function of the EC in the agricultural return flows. Moreover, a safe flow rate is defined in which the streamflow should not exceed at the checkpoint resulting in mitigation of the submerging lands damage. Results obtained by the PSO–MODSIM model indicate the ability of the proposed simulation–optimization approach for solving the problem of optimal quantity–quality-based water allocation in a reservoir–river system. For instance, the EC at the checkpoint is decreased by 61% in the optimum reservoir operation state comparing the present situation, whereas the municipal and environmental demands are fully met and the agricultural demands are supplied with a desirable reliability satisfaction level.
A Comprehensive Description of Hypoxia-inducible Factor 2α Inhibitors
as Anticancer Agents: A Mini-review
Authors: Lu Hongyuan , Zhu Yan , Liu Wenwu , Yan Yuanyuan , Jiang Xiaowen , Wang Qinbiao , Zhao Yanyun , He Miao , Wei Minjie
Published: August 2022

Targeting the tumor microenvironment is a promising strategy to prevent metastasis,
overcome acquired drug resistance, and improve the therapeutic effect. Hypoxia
is one of the characteristics of the tumor microenvironment, which is mainly regulated by
hypoxia-inducible factors. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) including HIF-1α, HIF-2α,
and HIF-3α, of which HIF-2α has assumed a more important role in tumor hypoxia environment.
It has been demonstrated that HIF-2α plays an important role in tumor diseases,
including renal cell carcinoma, breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and gastric cancer,
among others. Therefore, targeting HIF-2α has become one of the important strategies
for treating cancers. HIF-2α inhibitors can be divided into two categories: specific inhibitors
and non-specific inhibitors. The former includes synthetic monomer compounds
and traditional Chinese medicine extracts. In this review, we summarized, classified, and
discussed current research on the structure, structure-activity relationship (SAR), and
pharmacology of HIF-2α inhibitors, which is helpful to the rational design of effective
drugs for various types of malignant tumors.
Mechanism of CAV and CAVIN Family Genes in Acute Lung Injury based on DeepGENE
Authors: Huang Jingyu , Zhou Xuefeng , Li Changsheng , Tang Hexiao , Yang Zetian , Tang Zheng , Cheng Nitao
Published: August 2022

Background:

The fatality rate of acute lung injury (ALI) is as high as 40% to 60%. Although
various factors, such as sepsis, trauma, pneumonia, burns, blood transfusion, cardiopulmonary
bypass, and pancreatitis, can induce ALI, patients with these risk factors will eventually develop ALI.
The rate of developing ALI is not high, and the outcomes of ALI patients vary, indicating that it is related
to genetic differences between individuals. In a previous study, we found multiple functions of
cavin-2 in lung function. In addition, many other studies have revealed that CAV1 is a critical regulator
of lung injury. Due to the strong relationship between cavin-2 and CAV1, we suspect that cavin-2
is also associated with ALI. Furthermore, we are curious about the role of the CAV family and cavin
family genes in ALI.

Methods:

To reveal the mechanism of CAV and CAVIN family genes in ALI, we propose
DeepGENE to predict whether CAV and CAVIN family genes are associated with ALI. This method
constructs a gene interaction network and extracts gene expression in 84 tissues. We divided these features
into two groups and used two network encoders to encode and learn the features.

Results:

Compared with DNN, GBDT, RF and KNN, the AUC of DeepGENE increased by 7.89%,
16.84%, 20.19% and 32.01%, respectively. The AUPR scores increased by 8.05%, 15.58%, 22.56%
and 23.34%. DeepGENE shows that CAVIN-1, CAVIN-2, CAVIN-3 and CAV2 are related to ALI.

Conclusion:

DeepGENE is a reliable method for identifying acute lung injury-related genes. Multiple
CAV and CAVIN family genes are associated with acute lung injury-related genes through multiple
pathways and gene functions.
Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) Attenuates Paclitaxel-induced
Peripheral Neuropathy: A Mechanistic Study
Authors: Sharma Shyam Sunder , Kulkarni Namrata Pramod , Vaidya Bhupesh , Narula Acharan S.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a debilitating pain syndrome produced as a side effect of antineoplastic drugs like paclitaxel. Despite efforts, the currently available therapeutics suffer from serious drawbacks like unwanted side effects, poor efficacy and provide only symptomatic relief. Hence, there is a need to find new therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to explore the protective potential of Caffeic acid phenethyl ester in paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain.

Methods:

We examined the effects of Caffeic acid phenethyl ester by administering Paclitaxel (2 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) to female Sprague Dawley rats on four alternate days to induce neuropathic pain, followed by the administration of Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (10 and 30 mg/kg, intraperitoneally).

Results:

Rats that were administered paclitaxel showed a substantially diminished pain threshold and nerve functions after 28 days. A significantly increased protein expression of Wnt signalling protein (β-catenin), inflammatory marker (matrix metalloproteinase 2) and a decrease in endogenous antioxidant (nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2) levels were found in paclitaxel administered rats in comparison to the naïve control group. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (10 and 30 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) showed improvements in behavioural and nerve function parameters along with reduced expression of β-catenin, matrix metalloproteinase 2 and an increase in NF-E2–related factor 2 protein expression.

Conclusions:

The present study suggests that Caffeic acid phenethyl ester attenuates chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy via inhibition of β-catenin and matrix metalloproteinase 2 and increases nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 activation.
Microwave-assisted Synthesis of Pharmacologically Active 4-Phenoxyquinolines
and their Benzazole-quinoline Hybrids Through SNAr Reaction of
4,7-dichloroquinoline and Phenols Using [bmim][PF6] as a Green Solvent
Authors: Kouznetsov Vladimir V. , Rodríguez Enciso Duván A. , Puerto Galvis Carlos E.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Quinoline and its derivatives have been shown to display a wide spectrum of biological properties, especially anticancer activity. Particularly, diverse potent anticancer drugs are based on the 4-phenoxyquinoline skeleton, acting as small-molecules VEGR2 and/or c-Met kinase inhibitors. However, the design of new drugs based on these quinoline derivatives remains a challenge. Up now, all approaches to 4-phenoxyquinoline skeleton construction do not obey any green chemistry principles.

Aim and Objective:

Developing a new, efficient protocol for the synthesis of potentially bioactive 4-phenoxyquinoline derivatives and benzazole-quinoline-quinoline hybrids from commercially available 4,7-dichloroquinoline and phenol derivatives using microwave energy (MW) in the presence of 1-methyl 3-butylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate.

Method:

New eco-efficient protocol for valuable 7-chloro-4-phenoxyquinolines and their hybrids, which is based on SNAr reaction of 4,7-dichloroquinoline with respective simple phenols and hydroxyaryl-benzazoles under MW energy in green reaction media, is studied for the first time. Results. We found that among various solvents tested, the ionic liquid 1-methyl 3-butylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([bmim][PF6]) favored the SNAr reaction affording phenoxyquinolines in excellent yields (72-82%) in 10 min. The developed protocol allowed to obtain quickly in good yields (48-60%) new diverse benzazole-quinoline hybrids, which are expected to be pharmacologically active. According to the calculated bioactivity scores, new hybrids are potential kinase inhibitors that could be useful in anticancer drug research.

Conclusion:

We developed for the first time a new green, efficient method to prepare potentially bioactive functionalized 7-chloro-4-phenoxyquinolines and benzazole-quinoline molecules. Good to excellent yields of the quinoline products, us MW irradiation in ([bmim][PF6] as a green solvent, and short times of reactions are some of the main advantages of this new protocol.
The Value of Thioredoxin Level and its Gene Polymorphism in the
Diagnosis of Post- HCV Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Abd-Elsalam Sherief , Alegaily Hatem Samir , Soliman Moataz Yousry , Gad Ahmed Mehrez , Abou-Omar Eid Abdel-Monsef , Saleh Mohamed , Abdellatif Raghda Samir , Fouad Amina , Azzam Omar Mahmoud , Abo-Amer Yousry Esam-Eldin
Published: August 2022

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies
and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Indeed, we need a novel tumor marker other
than AFP for early detection and to improve the outcome. Serum thioredoxin is a promising protein
involved in the pathogenesis of many malignancies. The study aims to evaluate serum thioredoxin
and its gene polymorphism in HCC in cirrhotic patients due to HCV infection.

Patients and Methods:

350 patients with HCC, 350 patients with chronic liver diseases, and 300
healthy controls were enrolled in our study. Serum thioredoxin level was measured by ELISA, and
molecular study of thioredoxin domain-containing 5 (TXNDC5) gene polymorphism (rs1225943)
polymorphism using real-time polymerase chain reaction by Taqman allele discrimination was done
for all subjects.

Results:

Our study revealed a significant increase in serum thioredoxin levels in patients with HCC
compared to chronic liver diseases and healthy controls. Using the Receiver operating characteristic
(ROC) curve at the area under the curve (AUC) 0.917 and a cut-off value of > 14.6 U/ml, our overall
sensitivity and specificity for the HCC group over the other groups were 86 % and 92.15%, respectively
with 92.2% positive predictive value and 54.9% negative predictive value. The molecular
study of TXNDC5 gene polymorphism (rs1225943) polymorphism revealed no significant difference
between the studied groups.

Conclusion:

Serum thioredoxin may be used as a promising tumor marker for HCC. Future research
is needed to assess its use as a single or combined with other markers in the diagnosis and follow-up
of the patients after interventions.
Febrile Seizures: An Updated Narrative Review for Pediatric Ambulatory
Care Providers
Authors: Leung James Sze-Chuck
Published: August 2022

Background:

While generally self-limited, febrile seizures result in significant familial distress. Ambulatory pediatric care providers must be prepared to counsel families on the causes, risk factors, management principles, and prognosis of children with febrile seizures.

Objective:

To provide an updated, evidence-based review of febrile seizures focused on the needs of an ambulatory pediatric care provider.

Methods:

A narrative review of the literature prioritizing landmark articles, metanalyses, longitudinal population longitudinal cohort studies and national level guidelines.

Results:

Febrile seizures are aberrant physiological responses to fever in children caused by complex interactions of cytokine mediated neuroinflammation, environmental triggers, and genetic predisposition. Other than investigations to determine fever etiology, routine bloodwork, lumbar punctures, neuroimaging and electroencephalograms are low yield. The general prognosis is excellent, however, clinicians should be aware of long-term outcomes including: cognitive impairment with non-simple febrile seizures; neuropsychiatric associations; recurrent febrile seizure and epilepsy risk factors; and association between complex febrile seizures and sudden unexpected death. Children with high risk of recurrence, complex febrile seizures, limited access to care, or extreme parental anxiety may benefit from intermittent oral diazepam prophylaxis.

Conclusion:

Clinicians should consider four management priorities: 1) terminating the seizure; 2) excluding critical differential diagnoses; 3) investigating fever etiology; and 4) providing adequate counselling to families. The clinical approach and prognosis of febrile seizure can be based on subtype. Children with non-simple (i.e. complex or febrile status epilepticus) febrile seizures require closer care than the vast majority of children with simple febrile seizures, who have excellent outcomes.
A Systematic Literature Review of Injection Site Pain Perception in Adult
Patients Treated with Citrate-Free and Citrate-Containing Biologic Agents
Authors: Junker Sophia , Ebert Oliver , Bartsch Robert
Published: August 2022

Objective:

To investigate injection site pain (ISP) and other injection site outcomes caused by biologics administered alongside citrate-free (CF) and citrate-containing (CC) formula-tions.

Methods:

Electronic literature databases (Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were systemati-cally searched for clinical trials and observational studies reporting on injection site outcomes after subcutaneous administration of biologics. Studies with unknown excipient formulations were ex-cluded. The primary outcome was ISP, and secondary outcomes included any other reported injec-tion site reactions (ISRs). Meta-analysis approaches were used to aggregate evidence identified via the conducted systematic literature review.

Results:

A total of two observational studies, two cross-over/sequential trials, and three head-to-head comparison trials directly comparing CF with CC biologics were identified, as well as seven placebo-controlled trials. Evidence from five of the seven direct comparison studies suggested re-duced pain perception at the injection site when CF formulations were applied. Findings for other ISRs were balanced between both formulations, with slightly favorable results for preparations without citrate. A meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials found no significant difference between arms with CF formulations and placebo regarding the proportion of patients experiencing ISP (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.30-1.28).

Conclusion:

Excipient formulations are rarely specified in studies assessing pain and other ISRs of subcutaneously administered biologics. The available data indicate that subcutaneous administration of biologic agents without citrate may be associated with lower pain perception outcomes compared with treatment using CC formulations. Importantly, ISP is influenced by many factors which may have affected the results. More research is needed to assess how formulation excipients influence ISRs.
Translation and French Linguistic Validation of the Bath Ankylosing
Spondylitis Functional Index and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Global
Score in Patients with Axial Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Soulard Julie , Vaillant Jacques , Baillet Athan , Vuillerme Nicolas
Published: August 2022

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) may lead to functional and physical dis-turbances. Self-administered questionnaires can measure functional limitations associated to axSpA. If these questionnaires are currently used in clinical practice and research, the French version of these questionnaires has not been validated. The aim of this study was to translate and perform a linguistic validation of the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Global score (BAS-G) in French.

Methods:

The study has been approved by local ethic committee and is registered in Clinical Trial (NCT04212806). The translation process was performed through a forward/backward validation process, followed by clinician experts validation and patient cognitive interviews.

Results:

The two questionnaires were translated into a French version by two independent transla-tors. Translators then agreed on sentences being different between the two translations. The back-ward translation was equivalent to the initial English version except for two questions. Five French clinician experts on rheumatology made essential changes in sentences constructions of the translat-ed questionnaire. The last version of the questionnaires was presented to 5 patients with axSpA which all found them clear and understandable.

Conclusion:

BASFI and BAS-G would be a generally reliable instrument for patients with axSpA. These questionnaires can be widely used in clinical practice and research in French-speaking popu-lation. The use of these questionnaires is expected to have a positive impact on patient care to better understand physical consequences of axSpA.
The Effect of Postbiotics On Depressive Symptoms and Polycystic Ovary
Syndrome (PCOS) in Human Health: A Short Review
Authors: Pirhadi Mohadeseh , Khaniki Gholamreza Jahed , Nejad Amir Sasan Mozaffari , Sadighara Parisa
Published: August 2022

Postbiotics are known as preparations comprising inert microorganisms and/or their
ingredients that activate health profits on the host. They stimulate the intestine microbiome, support
gut immune activity, and prevent pathogenic microorganism duplication. Although postbiotics are a
type of probiotic waste, they can apply some beneficial effects on human health, such as antiobesity,
antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-carcinogenic. Accordingly, many studies suggested
a conclusive effect of postbiotics on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women and
depressive symptomatology. The aim of our study was to provide an updated review of these subjects.
We conducted a systematic search of the literature in multiple databases, such as Web of Science,
Google Scholar, Science Direct, and PubMed based on some keywords. In the current review,
we have focused on better understanding of postbiotics on consumers’ health providing a base for
future investigation.
Depression Screening Scores and Allergy and Gastrointestinal Medication
Use in Adolescents
Authors: Harris Kari , Saikumar Pavithra , Sunkoj Yojana , Vancuren Trista , Olufowote Blessing , Dedeaux Julian
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Between 2005 and 2014, the 12-month prevalence of major depressive
episodes among adolescents aged 12 to 17 years increased from 8.5% to 11.3%. Adolescent-onset
depression is related to increased risk for depression and suicidal attempts in adulthood. It is known
that depression is an adverse effect among adults taking OAM; however, the effect of OAM on adolescents
is unknown.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to describe the relationship between Patient Health Questionnaire 9-
Modified (PHQ9-M) scores and OAM use among adolescents.

Methods:

This study included data abstracted from charts of adolescents aged 12 to 21 years who
completed a Kansas Be Healthy wellness appointment at the KUSM-W Peds Clinic in 2017. Odds
ratios were used to calculate the relationship between oral allergy medication and gastrointestinal
medication use among adolescents and PHQ9-M scores.

Results:

Of the 425 adolescent charts analyzed, 22% (n=96) had positive PHQ9-M screens (a score of 10
or greater), and 13% (n=56) reported current use of allergy medication and/or GI medications. Adolescents
taking oral allergy medication were 1.77 times more likely to have a positive PHQ9-M screen than those not
taking oral allergy medication. Among adolescents on allergy medication, there was no difference in PHQ9-
M scores based on the drug class (1st or 2nd generation antihistamine or Montelukast).

Conclusion:

Healthcare providers must diligently explore OAM/GI use with adolescents during
clinical encounters and discuss possible adverse effects of OAM on mood.