bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hands-on, Eyes-on: Enhancement of Nigerian Senior Secondary School Physics Through Observational Learning
Authors: Bada Abiodun A , Akinbobola Akinyemi O
Published: April 2022

Physics is an aspect of science that is essential for the scientific development of any nation, but the performance of students in the subject remains a concern for physics educators. Observational learning is one way of enhancing performance. This study investigates the effects of this type of learning as reinforcement to enhance Nigerian students’ performance in physics. The investigation adopted the pre-test post-test randomized control group quasi-experimental design involving 89 senior school students randomly selected from two schools in Ondo, Nigeria. The instrument, the Physics Achievement Test in Energy Quantization (PATEQ), consisting of 19 multiple choice questions, was used to obtain the data. PATEQ was validated by three science education experts and a reliability coefficient of 0.72 was achieved through Kuder-Richardson Formula 21. The experimental and control groups were taught energy quantization using observational and conventional teaching methods respectively. The findings show that observational learning has a significant effect on physics students’ achievement. It is concluded that such learning should be used to reinforce the teaching of physics in order to improve Nigerian students’ grades in the subject.
Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Loading and Unloading on Coal Permeability with Different Sediment Beddings
Authors: Fan Chaojun , Wen Haiou , Sun Hao , Zhou Lijun , Zhang Xinpeng , Zhu Chun , Su Weiwei
Published: April 2022

The sediment bedding direction and loading-unloading have significant effect on permeability of coal sample. The coal samples taken from Zhangcun Coal Mine in Shanxi were used to measure coal permeability with different sediment beddings under the effect of loading and unloading by the triaxial coal-rock seepage experimental apparatus. The influence of gas pressure, loading-unloading, and sediment bedding direction on the permeability of coal samples was analyzed, and the functional relationship among these parameters was recovered by fitting. The results show that the permeability of all vertical, dip, and horizontal bedding coal samples decreases exponentially with the increase of effective stress during stress loading, while the permeability of three kinds of bedding coal samples increases exponentially with the decrease of effective stress during stress unloading. Under the same gas pressure, the fracture space of coal samples with vertical and dip bedding is more likely to be compressed and closed at the initial stage of loading, resulting in great decrease of the permeability. In the initial stage of unloading, the microcracks and natural beddings in coals gradually expand and connect. Due to the well development of fractures, the permeability of vertical bedding coal samples increases greatly, while the permeability of dip and horizontal bedding coal samples increases slightly. In the loading process, the permeability of coal sample is vertical bedding > dip bedding > horizontal bedding in order. For the tested samples, the permeability of vertical bedding coal samples is 1.3 to 2.8 times that of dip or horizontal bedding coal samples. In the unloading process, the permeability of the vertical bedding coal samples was 2.8 to 3.3 times that of the dip or horizontal bedding coal samples.
In vitro study of the antibacterial and anticancer activities of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Alpinia calcarata
Authors: Badarudheen Ruba , Rajalakshmi Govindaraju , Kattali Mashhoor
Published: May 2022

In recent years, plant-based nanoparticle synthesis and research attained significant attraction due to its potential biological application. Presently studies in bio-nanotechnology have attained fascinating attention due to the use of nanoparticles in various fields of life. We used aqueous leaf extract of Alpinia calcarata to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and characterized them using UV-vis spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and other techniques. These AgNPs' antibacterial and anticancer properties were also investigated. SEM analysis depicted the uniformly distributed spherical nanoparticles with 20 to 22 nm size. EDX analysis revealed the presence of silver ions with a strong signal. Gram-positive and negative human pathogenic bacteria such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were inhibited by the synthesized AgNPs. Antibacterial activities of the AgNPs were directly proportional to the concentration. The diameter of the zone of inhibition of AgNPs on bacteria varies from species to species. AgNPs were also found to have anticancer action against the MFC7 human breast cancer cell line. The anticancer activity of synthesized AgNPs was directly proportional to the concentration. The IC50 of this AgNP on the MCF7 cell line was determined using a linear regression equation and found to be 219.64 µg/ml. Thus, A. calcarata aqueous leaf extract can be used to synthesize AgNPs in an eco-friendly manner, and these AgNPs can be used in anticancer and antibacterial medicines, food, and cosmetic industries after clinical studies.
Investment strategy for blockchain technology in a shipping supply chain
Authors: Xin Xu , Liu Miaohui , Wang Xiaoli , Chen Haichao , Chen Kang
Published: May 2022

In the post-COVID-19 era, port congestion has become the norm, and the digitalization of shipping has accelerated due to the sporadic occurrence of global outbreaks. How to promote blockchain technology to improve the efficiency of port customs clearance and logistics transparency has become a hot research question. In this paper, we investigate the value of blockchain-based vertical cooperation led by a port or a shipping company in a one-to-two shipping service competition model. Meanwhile, we discuss consumer surplus and social welfare under different cooperation frameworks. We find that i) investment in blockchain technology can significantly increase the profits of port and shipping supply chain participants. ii) From the point of view of profit, when the investment efficiency of ports and shipping companies satisfies a certain relationship, there is a balanced strategy for both parties to invest in blockchain technology. iii) The more intense the competition for the services of shipping companies on the blockchain nodes, the lower the level of blockchain technology to improve the logistics capabilities of the port and shipping supply chain node companies. iv) From the perspective of maximizing consumer surplus and social welfare, the port’s investment in blockchain technology brings more consumer surplus and social welfare. The abovementioned findings can provide a reference for the daily operations of ports and shipping companies and present decision support for the government to formulate blockchain technology promotion policies.
Gestaltung von Interaktion und Kommunikation in digitalen Lehrformaten
Authors: Schlemmer Daniela , Decker Eva , Altenberend Mareike
Published: May 2022

Die Corona-Semester erforderten die Übertragung der Brückenkurse Mathematik in ein digitales Lehr-format. Gerade beim Studieneinstieg spielen persönliche Unterstützung und soziale Eingebundenheit für Studierende eine besonders wichtige Rolle. Deshalb lag die besondere Herausforderung bei der Übertragung in ein digitales Format darin, die wegfallenden üblichen Kennenlern- und Kommunika-tionsmöglichkeiten, die sich in Präsenzformaten beispielsweise in den Pausen oder im Gespräch mit den Sitznachbarn ergeben, zu kompensieren. Vorliegender Beitrag stellt vor, inwieweit der Transfer in ein digitales Format gelungen ist. Das digitale Brückenkurskonzept wurde in ein didaktisches Entwurfsmuster übertragen, um durch die strukturierte und nachvollziehbare Darstellung den Transfer und die Vergleichbarkeit der Ergebnisse zu erleichtern.
Liderando do meio?
Authors: Lira Paiva Felipe , Mesquita Rafael
Published: April 2022

As últimas décadas testemunharam a ascensão de novos atores intermediários no sistema internacional, como as potências regionais. Dentre as características atribuídas a elas, está a preferência por arenas multilaterais e a busca por proeminência nelas. Assim, convém investigar se a autoridade em tais instituições acompanhou a redistribuição de poder mundial. Este artigo busca responder a essa pergunta utilizando dados do IO BIO Project e do Word Power Index e estatística descritiva. Os dados indicam que o imediato pós-Guerra Fria foi marcado por menor atuação dos intermediários nas instituições multilaterais, enquanto a crise financeira de 2008 inaugurou uma maior participação desse grupo.
Epistemologias do Interstício
Authors: Martins Simoneti Caio Augusto , Félix de Souza Natália Maria
Published: April 2022

Este artigo pretende oferecer uma alternativa a interpretações que identificam uma relação conflituosa entre os estudos decoloniais latino-americanos e os estudos pós-coloniais do sudeste asiático. Para tanto, será mobilizado um diálogo entre os pensamentos de Walter Mignolo e Homi Bhabha enquanto exemplares de cada grupo, procurando apontar os potenciais de uma leitura focada na complementaridade de suas obras. Assim, este trabalho utilizará os conceitos de “pensamento liminar” e “hibridismo” como linhas condutoras para explorar os projetos de ambos os intelectuais, procurando identificar as razões de seus contrastes, assim como conexões possíveis entre eles.
Prediction of groundwater table and drought analysis; a new hybridization strategy based on bi-directional long short-term model and the Harris hawk optimization algorithm
Authors: Farzin Saeed , Anaraki Mahdi Valikhan , Naeimi Maryam , Zandifar Samira
Published: April 2022

In the present study, a new hybridization strategy for predicting the groundwater table (GWT) and drought analysis is presented. Therefore, a hybrid of the bi-directional long short-term model (BLSTM) and the Harris hawk optimization (HHO) algorithm, namely the BLSTM–HHO algorithm, is applied. In this algorithm, the lagged data of the GWT are used as the input, whereas the current GWT data are used as the output. Additionally, the standalone BLSTM, the long short-term model (LSTM), artificial neural networks (ANN), Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA), and the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) are employed as benchmark simulating algorithms. The results show that the BLSTM–HHO algorithm has more accuracy than the other investigated simulating algorithms based on the different evaluation criteria such as relative root mean squared error (RRMSE), Nash–Sutcliffe coefficient (NSE), and refined Willmott index (dr). The prediction results (from 2018 to 2022) in all three investigated aquifers show the decline of the GWT (−5.40 m for Brojen aquifer, −7.23 m for Javanmardi aquifer, and −5.81 m for Shahrekord aquifer). Accordingly, the drought analysis by the ground resource index (GRI) in the investigated areas shows that drought is expected to be continued for the next 5 years with an increasing magnitude of severity.
Financiamiento local de infraestructura en la frontera norte e instituciones fiscales: validación del efecto frontera norte
Authors: Ibarra Salazar Jorge , Sotres Cervantes Lida Karina
Published: April 2022

El objetivo es reconocer el ingreso fiscal local como una alternativa de financiamiento de infraestructura, estimando el efecto frontera en la recaudación del impuesto predial. Se utiliza un panel de datos anuales (2010-2019) de los municipios mexicanos para estimar distintos modelos por efectos fijos. Los resultados muestran que los municipios fronterizos recaudan de $69 a $75 pesos per cápita más que los no fronterizos. Se argumenta sobre el uso de fuentes de financiamiento local para ampliar la infraestructura en la región frontera norte de México. En la estimación del efecto frontera, en comparación con estudios anteriores, se emplea una base de datos más amplia, que incluye todos los municipios mexicanos. Se concluye que las diferencias institucionales son importantes para explicar las diferencias y evolución en la recaudación del impuesto predial. Las fuentes de financiamiento locales, ante la necesidad de ampliar infraestructura, pueden explotarse si existe el marco institucional propicio.
Nutraceuticals in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: How the Panorama has Changed in the Last Decade?
Authors: Smeriglio Antonella , Marcoccia Daniele , Denaro Marcella , Trombetta Domenico
Published: April 2022

Background:

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), mainly Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), are recurrent idiopathic non-infectious chronic diseases widely diffused worldwide and characterized by moderate to severe mucosal damage.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to review the literature of the last 10 years to photograph pre-clinical and clinical data on the use of nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment, also combined with the conventional drugs, of IBD.

Method:

PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and ClinicalTrials.gov were used for searching the most recent publications on in vitro, in vivo and clinical evidences on IBD and nutraceuticals by assessing the originality and scientific rigor of studies.

Results:

In the last decade, the interest in new healthy or therapeutic complementary or alternative approaches to conventional drugs in IBD has grown inexorably, as well as the incidence of these pathologies and the knowledge on their etiopathogenesis. In this context, a growing development of new nutraceutical products with a consequent increase in pre-clinical studies has been observed. However, this panorama does not yet translate into adequate clinical studies that can effectively endorse what was observed in preclinical studies, many of them are mostly aimed at resolving diseases related to IBD rather than IBD itself.

Conclusion:

Despite the promising preclinical data about nutraceuticals and IBD, we are still very far from being able to postulate an adequate nutraceutical treatment of these pathologies and further studies are necessary to support this hypothesis.
Hippo: A New Hub for Atherosclerotic Disease
Authors: Liu Xi-Yan , Zhou Kun , Tian Kai-Jiang , Yan Bin-Jie , Ren Zhong , Zhou Zhi-Xiang , Xiong Wen-Hao , Jiang Zhi-Sheng
Published: April 2022

Hippo, an evolutionarily conserved kinase cascade reaction in organisms, can respond to a set of
signals, such as mechanical signals and cell metabolism, to maintain cell growth, differentiation, tissue/organ
development, and homeostasis. In the past ten years, Hippo has controlled the development of tissues and organs
by regulating the process of cell proliferation, especially in the field of cardiac regeneration after myocardial
infarction. This suggests that Hippo signaling is closely linked to cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis is
the most common disease of the cardiovascular system. It is characterised by chronic inflammation of the vascular
wall, mainly involving dysfunction of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages. Oxidized
Low density lipoprotein (LDL) damages the barrier function of endothelial cells, which enter the middle membrane
of the vascular wall, accelerate the formation of foam cells, and promote the occurrence and development
of atherosclerosis. Autophagy is associated with the development of atherosclerosis. However, the mechanism
of Hippo regulation of atherosclerosis has not meant to be clarified. In view of the pivotal role of this signaling
pathway in maintaining cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation, the imbalance of Hippo is related to atherosclerosis
and related diseases. In this review, we emphasized Hippo as a hub for regulating atherosclerosis
and discussed its potential targets in pathophysiology, human diseases, and related pharmacology.
Psychosis in Parkinson’s Disease: Looking Beyond Dopaminergic Treatments
Authors: Rojas Milagros , Chávez-Castillo Mervin , Duran Pablo , Ortega Ángel , Bautista-Sandoval María Judith , Salazar Juan , Riaño-Garzón Manuel , Chacín Maricarmen , Medina-Ortiz Oscar , Palmar Jim , Cudris-Torres Lorena , Bermúdez Valmore
Published: April 2022

Background:

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide. The symptoms of PD are characterized not only by motor alterations but also by a spectrum of nonmotor symptoms. Some of these are psychiatric manifestations such as sleep disorders; depression; cognitive difficulties that can evolve into dementia; and symptoms of psychosis, which include hallucinations, illusions, and delusions. Parkinson’s disease psychosis (PDP) occurs in 18%–50% of patients with PD. Treating PDP is challenging because antipsychotic drugs tend to be inefficient or may even worsen the motor symptoms of the disease.

Methods:

This is a narrative review in which an extensive literature search was performed on the Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases, from inception to August 2021. The terms “Parkinson’s disease psychosis,” “Parkinson psychosis,” “neurodegenerative psychosis,” and “dopamine psychosis” were among the keywords used in the search.

Objective:

current understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in PDP, as well as recent innovative alternatives for its treatment.

Results:

Recently, views on the etiology of hallucinations and illusions have evolved remarkably. PDP has been cemented as a multifactorial entity that is dependent not only on extrinsic mechanisms but also novel intrinsic mechanisms including genetic factors, neurostructural alterations, functional disruptions, visual processing disturbances, and sleep disorders. Consequently, innovative pharmacological and biological treatments have been proposed. Pimavanserin, a selective 5-HT2A inverse agonist, stands out after its approval for the treatment of PDP-associated hallucinations and illusions.

Conclusion:

Future results from upcoming clinical trials should further characterize the role of this drug in the management of PDP as well as other treatment options with novel mechanisms of action, such as saracatinib, SEP-363856, cannabidiol, electroconvulsive therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation.
In vitro and Bioimaging Studies of Mesoporous Silica Nanocomposites
Encapsulated Iron-oxide and Loaded Doxorubicin Drug (DOX/IO@Silica)
as Magnetically Guided Drug Delivery System
Authors: Pani Balaram , Kumar Pramod , Kumar Hemant , Kumar Jitender
Published: April 2022

Background:

In recent years, delivery of drugs by nanocomposites has emerged as an exciting field of research for bio-imaging tools and targeted cancer treatment. The large surface area and porous volume of mesoporous silica nanocomposites (MSN’s) have gained a lot of interest for their application in the delivery of drugs and magnetic properties of Iron oxide (IO) nanocomposites play a key role in targeted delivery system.

Methods:

In this study, mesoporous silica encapsulated IO nanocomposites loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) were synthesized for the magnetically guided delivery of anticancer drugs. The synthesis of IO nanocomposites was done through the precipitation method and then silica encapsulation and drug loading was done by StÖber method.

Results:

The magnetically driven delivery of the drug is produced by the encapsulation of magnetically active IO in the mesoporous silica shell. The controlled release of DOX is possible because of the MSN’s. TEM images shows that the nanocomposites have spherical morphology and average diameter in the rage of 120 nm. Power-XRD data confirms the crystalline nature of nanocomposites. The strong absorption peak was observed in UV-Visible spectroscopy at 490 nm and quenching in fluorescence spectra confirms the encapsulation of DOX in the mesoporous silica shell. VSM data showed magnetic nature of nanocomposites, with large magnetic susceptibility (74.88 emu/g). The use of DOX/IO@Silica nanocomposites as a sustainable drug release and targeted drug delivery vehicle has been reported here. The pH dependent release of DOX was studied and significant release was observed at lower pH. In-vitro cell viability assay and fluorescence imaging assay have demonstrated that these nanocomposites show significant dose-dependent toxicity to cancer cells in the presence magnetic field.

Conclusion:

In-vitro studies via the MTT assay showed that these synthesized nanocomposites in culture are non-toxic to healthy cells compared DOX-induced cytotoxicity due its controlled release and can be further strengthened by magnetic guidance. Therefore, due to its optical properties and potential for guided delivery of drug to the targeted site, these nanocomposites are ideal as an anticancer agent and bio-imaging prob.
Molecular Mechanisms of miR-214 Involved in Cancer and Drug
Resistance
Authors: Karimi Elham , Dehghani Aghdas , Azari Hanieh , Zarei Mahboobeh , Shekari Mohammad , Mousavi Pegah
Published: April 2022

:

As a transcriptional regulation element, the microRNA plays a crucial role in any aspect of molecular biological processes like cellular metabolism, cell division, cell death, cell movement, intracellular signaling, and immunity was discovered. Previous studies have been suggested that microRNA-214 (miR-214) probably is a valuable marker in cancer. Here, in this perspective, we provide a brief updated overview of the vital dual role of miR-214 in cancer as a tumor suppressor or oncogene. We also collected target genes and signaling pathways related to the dysregulation of miR-214 by previous experimental research in various human diseases. To highlight the critical function of miR-214 in the prognostic, diagnostic, and pathogenesis of cancer diseases, we focused on the probable clinical biomarker and drug resistance function of miR-214. The current research provides a comprehensive perspective of the regulatory mechanisms governed by miR-214 in human disease pathogenesis and a list of probable candidates for future study.
Autophagy in Cancer Cell Transformation: A Potential Novel Therapeutic
Strategy
Authors: Marzoog Basheer Abdullah
Published: April 2022

Basal autophagy plays a crucial role in maintaining intracellular homeostasis and prevents
the cell from escaping the cell cycle regulation mechanisms and being cancerous. Mitophagy and nucleophagy
are essential for cell health. Autophagy plays a pivotal role in cancer cell transformation,
where upregulated precancerous autophagy induces apoptosis. Impaired autophagy has been shown to
upregulate cancer cell transformation. However, tumor cells upregulate autophagy to escape elimination
and survive the unfavorable conditions and resistance to chemotherapy. Cancer cells promote autophagy
through modulation of autophagy regulation mechanisms and increase expression of the autophagyrelated
genes. Whereas, autophagy regulation mechanisms involved microRNAs, transcription factors,
and the internalized signaling pathways such as AMPK, mTOR, III PI3K, and ULK-1. Disrupted regulatory
mechanisms are various as the cancer cell polymorphism. Targeting a higher level of autophagy
regulation is more effective, such as gene expression, transcription factors, or epigenetic modification
that are responsible for the up-regulation of autophagy in cancer cells. Currently, the CRISPR-CAS9
technique is available and can be applied to demonstrate the potential effects of autophagy in cancerous
cells.
Plants from Genus Dracocephalum in Iran: Pharmacology and Phytochemistry
Overview
Authors: Emadi Fatemeh , Moghaddam Hajar Hesami , Esmaeil-jamaat Elham , Kamalinejad Mohammad , Alijaniha Fatemeh
Published: April 2022

Background:

Genus Dracocephalum belongs to the Lamiaceae family, representing 11
species in Iran, containing D. ghahremanii Jamzad, D. lindbergii Rech. F, D. oligadenium Bornm. &
Gauba, D. kotschyi Boiss., D.multicaule, D.Aucheri, D.Subcapitatum, D.Thymifolium, D.Moldavica,
D. polychaetum Borm, and D. surmandinum Rech.f. The current study aimed to investigate the morphological
and phytochemical properties of Dracocephalum species in Iran and their pharmacological
effects.

Methods:

The search was restricted to scientific articles from PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct,
SpringerLink, and Scopus. The search was limited to scientific journals, books, and book chapters
focusing on the medicinal properties of Dracocephalum in Iran for the era from 1993 to 2020.

Results:

Findings show that Dracocephalum species were utilized to treat various disorders in traditional
medicine. Phytochemical studies show that the main constituents isolated from the plant consist
of lignans, phytosterol, flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, Sesquiterpenes, and oxygenated and hydro carbonated
monoterpenes. These main components are responsible for antihyperlipidemic, antimicrobial,
anticancer, antispasmodic, antioxidant, and cardiovascular effects of the plant.

Conclusion:

This plant has a good potential for drug discovery and curing different diseases. Therefore,
more research will be done on the Iranian species of Dracocephalum based on clinical and animal
studies to develop an effective drug formulation.
Acanthosis Nigricans: An Updated Review
Authors: Leung Alexander K.C. , Lam Joseph M. , Barankin Benjamin , Leong Kin Fon , Hon Kam Lun
Published: April 2022

Background:

Early recognition of acanthosis nigricans is important because acanthosis
nigricans can be a cutaneous manifestation of a variety of systemic disorders and, rarely, as a sign
of internal malignancy.

Objective:

The purpose of this article is to familiarize pediatricians with the clinical manifestations,
evaluation, diagnosis, and management of acanthosis nigricans.

Methods:

A search was conducted in November 2021in PubMed Clinical Queries using the key
term "acanthosis nigricans". The search strategy included all clinical trials, observational studies,
and reviews published within the past 10 years. Only papers published in the English literature were
included in this review. The information retrieved from the above search was used in the compilation
of the present article.

Results:

Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by symmetric, hyperpigmented, and velvety plaques
with ill-defined borders, typically involving intertriginous areas. Obesity is the most common cause
of acanthosis nigricans which is increasingly observed in obese children and adolescents and can
serve as a cutaneous marker of insulin resistance. Early recognition of acanthosis nigricans is important
because acanthosis nigricans can also be a cutaneous manifestation of a variety of systemic
disorders and, rarely, as a sign of internal malignancy. This may consist of weight reduction, discontinuation
of causative drugs, treatment of underlying endocrinopathy, or treatment of an underlying
malignancy. For patients with isolated acanthosis nigricans and for those whose underlying
cause is not amenable to treatment, treatment of the lesion may be considered for cosmetic reasons.
Topical retinoids, vitamin D analogs, chemical peels, and other keratolytics are often used for the
treatment of localized lesions. Seldom, systemic therapy such as oral retinoids may be considered
for extensive or generalized acanthosis nigricans and acanthosis nigricans unresponsive to topical
therapy. Other uncommon treatment modalities include dermabrasion, laser therapy, and surgical
removal.

Conclusion:

Although acanthosis nigricans is treatable, a complete cure is difficult to achieve. The
underlying cause should be treated, if possible, to resolve and prevent the recurrence of acanthosis
nigricans. The diagnosis is mainly clinical, based on the characteristic appearance (symmetrically
distributed, hyperpigmented, velvety, papillomatous, hyperkeratotic plaques with ill-defined borders)
and the typical sites (intertriginous areas, flexural area, and skin folds) of the lesions. The diagnosis
might be difficult for lesions that have atypical morphology or are in an unusual location.
Clinicians should be familiar with the clinical signs, evaluation, diagnosis, and therapy of acanthosis
nigricans because of the link between it and underlying diseases.
Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation Therapy on Neuropathic Pain, Nerve
Conduction and Plantar Pressure Distribution in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
- A Systematic Review
Authors: Korada Hrishikesh Yadav , Arora Esha , Maiya Gundmi Arun , Rao Sharath , Hande Manjunath , Shetty Sahana , Gundmi Shubha , Anche Parameshwar , Amravadi Sampath
Published: April 2022

Background::

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a severe complication of type 2 diabetes
mellitus. The most common symptoms are neuropathic pain and altered sensorium due to damage
to small nerve fibers. Altered plantar pressure distribution is also a major risk factor in diabetic
peripheral neuropathy, leading to diabetic foot ulcers.

Objective::

The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the various studies involving
photobiomodulation therapy on neuropathic pain and plantar pressure distribution in diabetic
peripheral neuropathy.

Methods::

We conducted a systematic review (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Cochrane)
to summarise the evidence on photobiomodulation therapy for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy with
type 2 diabetes mellitus. Randomized and non-randomized studies were included in the review.

Results::

This systematic review included eight studies in which photobiomodulation therapy
showed improvement in neuropathic pain and nerve conduction velocity. It also reduces plantar
pressure distribution, which is a high risk for developing foot ulcers.

Conclusion::

We conclude that photobiomodulation therapy is an effective, non-invasive, and costefficient
means to improve neuropathic pain and altered plantar pressure distribution in diabetic
peripheral neuropathy.
Trends in the Prevalence of Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes in Bangladesh
(2010-2020): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hoq Mohammad Injamul , Hossain Mohotasin , Jahan Shamima , Mahmud Hasan , Akter Farjana , Mahmud Faisal , Uddin Main , Siddiqui Shafayet Ahmed , Jakaria M.D.
Published: April 2022

Background: The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and type 2 diabetes
mellitus (T2DM) has increased in Bangladesh. This paper has reviewed published studies on hypertension
and T2DM from 2010 to 2020 in Bangladesh and conducted a meta-analysis.

Methods: The PubMed database was used for systematic search. Hypertension and T2DM were
considered for measuring pooled prevalence by meta-analysis. The random-effects model was used
to calculate the pooled prevalence of hypertension (n = 30) and T2DM (n = 21) in relevant studies.
The quality of the reviewed studies was determined by sampling strategy, sample size, and outcome
assessment. The meta-analysis protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42020206315).

Results: The pooled hypertension and T2DM prevalence was 21.6% (95% CI: 18.8%-24.4%) and
13.6% (95% CI: 10.8%-16.5%), respectively. Females were more hypertensive than males (M vs.
F: 18.6% vs. 24.8%), and T2DM was higher in females (M vs. F: 12.4% vs. 13.3%). Urban dwellers
were more hypertensive and diabetic than rural people (urban vs. rural: 28.5% vs. 20.3% and
18.8% vs. 14.2%, respectively). An 8% increase in the prevalence of hypertension and T2DM became
more than double compared to the 1995-2010 period.

Conclusion: Future research should focus on the underlying factors that increase the prevalence of
these diseases and prevention strategies to reduce the trend of increasing prevalence.
A Systematic Approach to Diagnosing Arthritis Based on Radiological
Imaging
Authors: Ahn Kyung-Sik , Lee Kyu-Chong , Kang Chang Ho , Hong Suk Joo , Kim Baek Hyun , Shim Euddeum
Published: April 2022

:

Radiology plays a key role in the diagnosis of arthritis. We herein suggest an algorithmic
approach to diagnosing arthritis. First, the number of joint involvements is reviewed. Monoarticular
arthritis includes septic arthritis, pigmented villonodular synovitis, and synovial chondromatosis. Second,
polyarticular arthritis can be categorized by its characteristics: erosive, productive, and mixed.
Erosive disease includes rheumatoid arthritis, hemophilia, and amyloidosis, while productive disease
includes osteoarthritis and hemochromatosis. Third, mixed diseases are subcategorized by symmetricity.
Ankylosing spondylitis and inflammatory bowel disease related arthritis affect joints symmetrically,
while psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, and crystalline arthropathy are asymmetric. Adjacent soft
tissue density, periostitis, and bone density are ancillary findings that can be used as additional differential
diagnostic clues. The final step in identifying the type of arthritis is to check whether the location
is a site frequently affected by one particular disease over another. This systematic approach would be
helpful for radiologists in diagnosing arthritis.
Phytochemical Screening and In vitro Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Antihemolytic Activities of Putoria calabrica Leaf Extracts
Authors: Bellik Yuva , Mekhoukh Nasreddine , Chougui Nadia
Published: April 2022

Background:

: Putoria calabrica is a common Mediterranean plant used topically in folk medicine for medical purposes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial, and antihemolytic properties of Putoria calabrica leaf extracts.

Methods:

Total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and condensed tannins content (CTC) were determined spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activity was tested using TAC, DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Agar diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. Anti-hemolytic activity was evaluated by the measurement of erythrocytes turbidity and extracellular hemoglobin concentration using AAPH method.

Results:

Methanol was the optimal solvent to extract the bioactive components with the highest extraction yield (30.11 ± 0.42%), TPC (142.11 ± 4.04 mg GAE/g dry extract) and TFC (29.16 ± 0.99 mg QrE/g dry extract). In terms of antioxidant activity, methanol extract was the most effective against ABTS free radical (IC50 = 5.02 ± 0.13 mg/ml) and FRAP (A0.5 = 2.91 ± 0.09 mg/ml). While, acetone extract showed the highest TAC (214.05 ± 8.74 mg GAE/g dry extract) and DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 = 1.94 ± 0.02 mg/ml). The strongest antimicrobial effect at a concentration of 10.24 mg/well was observed with acetone extract against P. aeruginosa (22.52 ± 0.60 mm) and C. albicans (17.33 ± 0.41 mm). While, methanol extract was the most active against S. aureus (17.31 ± 0.98 mm). Aqueous extract showed a good capacity to protect erythrocytes from oxidative damage by preventing their hemolysis and the oxidation of hemoglobin induced by AAPH.

Conclusion:

P. calabrica leaves could have a great importance as a source of therapeutic bioactive compounds.
The Inhibition of Glutathione S-Transferases and Butyrylcholinesterase by
Antidepressants: A Mini-Review on Enzyme-Drug Interactions
Authors: Özer Nazmi , Markus Victor , Dalmızrak Özlem , Teralı Kerem
Published: April 2022

Background:

Compromises in the cellular enzymatic defense barrier can increase the duration
of exposure to electrophiles and the severity of toxicity they may incur.

Objective:

In this mini-review, we discuss the inhibition of the enzymatic defense systems by different
antidepressants commonly prescribed worldwide as well as herbal products used for various forms of
depression.

Methods:

Our work primarily focused on the interactions of two prominent biotransformation enzyme
systems, namely glutathione S-transferases and cholinesterases, with tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs),
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and hypericin.

Results:

The antidepressants exert considerable inhibitory effects against glutathione S-transferases
and butyrylcholinesterase.

Conclusion:

The outcomes of available published studies and their implications for health and disease
are discussed here in detail.
Wettability of Graphene Coated on Aluminum Substrate with Microstructure
Modification
Authors: Bai Qingshun , Dou Yu-Hao , Guo Wanmin , Guo Yongbo , Du Yunlong
Published: April 2022

Background:

As a new type of coating material, graphene has an important application
prospect in creating hydrophobicity on the material surface. It can be seen that research on the
wettability of graphene has a very actual significance in its application. Graphene membrane can
change the wettability of the aluminum surface effectively. It can be combined with the traditional
method to tune the wettability of the metal surface. Adding the microstructure is a very common
method for changing the wettability. Therefore, the results have guided significance for the practical
application of graphene in controlling the wettability of aluminum substrate with microstructure.

Methods:

This paper uses molecular dynamics to simulate graphene’s adsorption and wetting behavior
on the aluminum substrate with microstructure and to calculate energy changes in the two
processes.

Results:

The adsorption state of graphene is related to the aspect ratio of the microstructure. When
the aspect ratios of the microstructure become larger, the graphene can be completely absorbed by
the substrate, causing larger binding free energy and higher adhesion spontaneity of graphene. The
wetting contact angles of the substrate with graphene are significantly higher than those of the
aluminum substrate without graphene.

Conclusion:

The aspect ratio can influence the free energy and the binding energy, causing different
states in graphene. The large aspect ratio will increase the absolute value of the free energy and
release more binding energy, causing a more stable state. The graphene may prevent the deformation
of the hydrogen bond and cause worse wettability. The results have been of great significance
for the practical application of graphene in controlling the wettability of aluminum substrate
with microstructure.
Self-medication during the Era of COVID-19; Potential Implications for
Drug Policy Makers and Pharmacovigilance
Authors: Mallhi Tauqeer Hussain , Khan Yusra Habib , Butt Muhammad Hammad , Salman Muhammad
Published: April 2022

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak is marked by infodemic amid conspiracy
theories, false claims, rumors, and misleading narratives, which have had a significant impact
on the global campaign against COVID-19. The drug repurposing provides a hope to curb the
growing encumbrance of the disease but at the same time, it poses various challenges such as selfmedication
using repurposed drugs and its associated harms. During the continuing pandemic, this
perspective piece explores the potential hazards of self-medication and its attributing factors along
with possible countermeasures.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Juvenile Macaques
Reversed the Serum Protein Expression Profile in Aged Macaques
Authors: Yu Qianqian , Tian Chuan , Lv Guanke , Kong Qingpeng , Li Gonghua , Zhu Guangxu , Zhu Xiangqing , Pan Xinghua
Published: April 2022

Objective:

Reveal the changes of serum protein composition and content in macaques naturally ageing, and explore the effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMMSC) on the serum protein expression profile in elderly macaques.

Methods:

Naturally ageing macaques were assessed according to age. BMMSCs were intravenously infused into aged macaques. In addition, peripheral blood was collected to obtain serum for data-independent acquisition (DIA) protein sequencing to identify ageing-related indicators. One hundred eighty days after macaques received BMMSC treatment, haemoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was performed to observe the morphology and structure of aortic arches.

Results:

Compared with infant and young control macaques, aged macaques showed erythema on the face, dry skin, reduced amounts of hair on the head and back, and paleness. Cultured BMMSCs from the 4th passage (P4 BMMSCs) were grown in accordance with standards used to culture mesenchymal stem cells. After BMMSC treatment, the assessed aortic arches showed no calcium salt deposition or cell necrosis, and the characteristics of the serum protein expression profile tended to be similar to that of the infant and young groups, with the expression of 41 proteins upregulated with age and that of 30 proteins downregulated with age but upregulated after BMMSC treatment. Moreover, we identified 44 significantly differentially expressed proteins between the aged model and treatment groups; 11 of the upregulated proteins were related to vascular ageing, neuronal ageing and haematopoiesis, and 33 of the downregulated proteins were associated with neuronal ageing, cardiovascular disease and tumours. Interestingly, S100 expression in serum was significantly decreased, COMP expression was significantly increased, NKAP expression reappeared, and LCN2, CSF1R, CORO1C, CSTB and RSU-1 expression disappeared after BMMSC treatment.

Conclusion:

BMMSCs can reverse ageing-related serum protein expression.
Comparison of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells with Mesenchymal Stem
Cells from Other Sources: A Scoping Systematic Review of In vitro and In
vivo Studies
Authors: Kadkhoda Zeinab , Motie Parisa , Rad Maryam Rezaei , Mohaghegh Sadra , Kouhestani Farnaz , Motamedian Saeed Reza
Published: April 2022

Objective:

The application of stem cells in regenerative medicine depends on their biological
properties. This scoping review aimed to compare the features of periodontal ligament stem cells
(PDLSSCs) with stem cells derived from other sources.

Design:

An electronic search in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar and Science Direct
was conducted to identify in vitro and in vivo studies limited to English language.

Results:

Overall, 65 articles were included. Most comparisons were made between bone marrow stem
cells (BMSCs) and PDLSCs. BMSCs were found to have lower proliferation and higher osteogenesis
potential in vitro and in vivo than PDLSCs; on the contrary, dental follicle stem cells and umbilical cord
mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) had a higher proliferative ability and lower osteogenesis than
PDLSCs. Moreover, UCMSCs exhibited a higher apoptotic rate, hTERT expression, and relative telomerase
length. The immunomodulatory function of adipose-derived stem cells and BMSCs was comparable
to PDLSCs. Gingival mesenchymal stem cells showed less sensitivity to long-term culture. Both pure and
mixed gingival cells had lower osteogenic ability compared to PDLSCs. Comparison of dental pulp stem
cells (DPSCs) with PDLSCs regarding proliferation rate, osteo/adipogenesis, and immunomodulatory
properties was contradictory; however, in vivo bone formation of DPSCs seemed to be lower than
PDLSCs.

Conclusion:

In light of the performed comparative studies, PDLSCs showed comparable results to stem
cells derived from other sources; however, further in vivo studies are needed to determine the actual pros
and cons of stem cells in comparison to each other.
Comparative Study of L-shaped and U-shaped TFET Device with Temperature
Variations
Authors: Sinha Sanjeet Kumar , Chander Sweta
Published: April 2022

Background:

In the nanometer regime, the impact of temperature is quite dominant in
the device characteristics.

Objectives:

A comparative study of L-shaped Tunnel Field Effect Transistors (TFETs) and Ushaped
TFETs with temperature variation.

Methods:

The effect of temperature has been studied for the device characteristics in terms of surface
potential, electric field, and transfer characteristics using the Synopsys TCAD tool.

Results:

The ON current and OFF current of L-shaped and U-shaped TFETs structure shows the
enhanced performance due to the large area of channel length. The addition of n-type pocket under
the source enhances both devices ON current and OFF current. Both L-shaped and U-shaped
TFETs structures are easy to fabricate and cost-effective due to the use of already established Si
technology.

Conclusion:

In next-generation devices, the superior performance of L and U-shaped TFETs structure
makes it a promising contender for low power applications as their subthreshold swing (SS) is
less than 60 mV/decade is observed.
Post COVID-19: Risk Factors, Prevention, and Management of Black
Fungus
Authors: Dhaneshwar Suneela , Salman Aimen , Shafiulla Shaik
Published: April 2022

Background:

Mucormycosis is a genuine, however uncommon shrewd fungal contamination
that spreads quickly, and subsequently brief analysis and treatment are important to
stay away from the high pace of mortality and morbidity rates. Mucormycosis is brought about
by the inward breath of its filamentous (hyphal structure) fungus, particularly in immunosuppressed
patients. The pandemic of COVID -19 stays on an upsurge pattern. The second rush of
this infection has prompted alarm in numerous nations, including India and a few pieces of the
world experiencing the third wave. As there could be no appropriate treatment choices or cures
accessible for this lethal contamination, steady consideration gears like oxygen chambers, ventilators
and substantial utilization of steroids assume an imperative part in the management of
COVID-19. Amidst this pandemic, the COVID-19 patients are procuring optional contaminations,
for example, mucormycosis otherwise called black fungus infection.

Objective:

It is important to lead research on COVID-19 patients to even more likely to forestall
and oversee pioneering contaminations to diminish their occurrence and bleakness. So, this paper
is to foster preventive treatment plans and use corticosteroids sanely.

Methods:

Using search engines like Embase, PubMed, Google Scholar, etc., various research,
review articles, and some book chapters, also various articles on websites and guidelines on the
ICMR portal were accessed, after which we prepared this review article. In this review, we have
included reported cases and case series of mucormycosis among patients with and without
COVID-19 spanning the period of 1969 to 2021 and have described the clinical features and outcomes.

Results:

In gentle instances of COVID-19 (without hypoxemia) or when utilizing higher dosages
of glucocorticoids, glucocorticoids ought to be kept away from ongoing investigations which
have archived a disturbing number of COVID-19 patients with mucormycosis contamination. A
large portion of these patients had diabetes which was controlled with the use of steroids.

Conclusion:

Thus, the current article underlines mucormycosis and its connected conditions, its
component in typical and COVID-19 influenced people, affecting variables and difficulties to
defeat this disease. Early distinguishing proof and further examination of its growth will altogether
diminish the seriousness of the sickness and death rate in COVID-19- influenced patients.
Recent Trends and Prospects in the Iron-catalyzed Amination Reactions
Authors: Bartholomew Richard , Aneeja Thaipparambil , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: April 2022

Iron-catalyzed C–H amination reactions have emerged as a potent tool in synthetic organic
chemistry in recent years. These reactions are eco-friendly, highly catalytic efficient, and
show good functional group tolerance. The organonitrogen products of the reaction have found
wide applications in agricultural chemistry, medicinal chemistry, industrial chemistry, and natural
product synthesis. This review focuses on the recent progress in iron-catalyzed C–H amination
reactions and covers literature from 2019-2021.
An Outrage: The Mechanism of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in
Microorganisms
Authors: Srivastava Soamyaa
Published: April 2022

Antibiotics come into the picture when the body’s natural defense system fails to fight
against the pathogen. However, the overuse of antibiotics in the last few decades has led to the development
of resistant strains that may be fatal to the human race as they are not easily treatable.
The misuse and several inappropriate usages have caused genetic mutations in bacterial cells to
adapt to the antibiotic environment. The organisms develop several mechanisms to thrive and resist
conventional treatment processes. The review discusses the possible mechanisms of bacterial resistance
to antibiotics and measures to overcome this problem worldwide.