bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lasting Changes to Circulating Leukocytes in People with Mild SARS-CoV-2 Infections
Authors: Kennedy Allison E. , Cook Laura , Breznik Jessica A. , Cowbrough Braeden , Wallace Jessica G. , Huynh Angela , Smith James W. , Son Kiho , Stacey Hannah , Ang Jann , McGeer Allison , Coleman Brenda L. , Larché Maggie , Larché Mark , Hambly Nathan , Nair Parameswaran , Ask Kjetil , Miller Matthew S. , Bramson Jonathan , Levings Megan K. , Nazy Ishac , Svenningsen Sarah , Mukherjee Manali , Bowdish Dawn M. E.
Published: November 2021

Survivors of severe SARS-CoV-2 infections frequently suffer from a range of post-infection sequelae. Whether survivors of mild or asymptomatic infections can expect any long-term health consequences is not yet known. Herein we investigated lasting changes to soluble inflammatory factors and cellular immune phenotype and function in individuals who had recovered from mild SARS-CoV-2 infections (n = 22), compared to those that had recovered from other mild respiratory infections (n = 11). Individuals who had experienced mild SARS-CoV-2 infections had elevated levels of C-reactive protein 1–3 months after symptom onset, and changes in phenotype and function of circulating T-cells that were not apparent in individuals 6–9 months post-symptom onset. Markers of monocyte activation, and expression of adherence and chemokine receptors indicative of altered migratory capacity, were also higher at 1–3 months post-infection in individuals who had mild SARS-CoV-2, but these were no longer elevated by 6–9 months post-infection. Perhaps most surprisingly, significantly more T-cells could be activated by polyclonal stimulation in individuals who had recently experienced a mild SARS-CoV-2, infection compared to individuals with other recent respiratory infections. These data are indicative of prolonged immune activation and systemic inflammation that persists for at least three months after mild or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections.
African Swine Fever Virus pE199L Induces Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis
Authors: Li Tingting , Zhao Gaihong , Zhang Taoqing , Zhang Zhaoxia , Chen Xin , Song Jie , Wang Xiao , Li Jiangnan , Huang Li , Wen Lili , Li Changyao , Zhao Dongming , He Xijun , Bu Zhigao , Zheng Jun , Weng Changjiang
Published: November 2021

African swine fever (ASF) is a severe hemorrhagic disease in swine characterized by massive lymphocyte depletion and cell death, with apoptosis and necrosis in infected lymphoid tissues. However, the molecular mechanism regarding ASFV-induced cell death remains largely unknown. In this study, 94 ASFV-encoded proteins were screened to determine the viral proteins involved in cell death in vitro, and pE199L showed the most significant effect. Ectopic expression of pE199L in porcine cells (CRL-2843) and human cells (HEK293T and HeLa cells) induced cell death remarkably, showing obvious shrinking, blistering, apoptotic bodies, and nuclear DNA fragments. Meanwhile, cell death was markedly alleviated when the expression of pE199L was knocked down during ASFV infection. Additionally, the expression of pE199L caused a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cytochrome C, and caspase-9 and -3/7 activation, indicating that the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway was involved in pE199L-induced apoptosis. Further investigations showed that pE199L interacted with several anti-apoptotic BCL-2 subfamily members (such as BCL-XL, MCL-1, BCL-W, and BCL-2A1) and competed with BAK for BCL-XL, which promoted BAK and BAX activation. Taken together, ASFV pE199L induces the mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis, which may provide clues for a comprehensive understanding of ASFV pathogenesis.
Impacts of Climate Change on the Precipitation and Streamflow Regimes in Equatorial Regions: Guayas River Basin
Authors: Ilbay-Yupa Mercy , Ilbay Franklin , Zubieta Ricardo , García-Mora Mario , Chasi Paolo
Published: November 2021

The effects of climate change projected for 2050 to 2079 relative to the 1968–2014 reference period were evaluated using 39 CMIP5 models under the RCP8.5 emissions scenario in the Guayas River basin. The monthly normalized precipitation index (SPI) was used in this study to assess the impact of climate change for wet events and droughts from a meteorological perspective. The GR2M model was used to project changes in the streamflow of the Daule River. The climate projection was based on the four rigorously selected models to represent the climate of the study area. On average, an increase in temperature (~2 °C) and precipitation (~6%) is expected. A 7% increase in precipitation would result in a 10% increase in streamflow for flood periods, while an 8% decrease in precipitation could result in approximately a 60% reduction in flow for dry periods. The analysis of droughts shows that they will be more frequent and prolonged in the highlands (Andes) and the middle part of the basin. In the future, wet periods will be less frequent but of greater duration and intensity on the Ecuadorian coast. These results point to future problems such as water deficit in the dry season but also increased streamflow for floods during the wet season. This information should be taken into account in designing strategies for adaptation to climate change.
Hydrodynamic Evaluation of Five Influent Distribution Systems in a Cylindrical UASB Reactor Using CFD Simulations
Authors: Cisneros Juan F. , Cobos Fabiola , Pelaez-Samaniego Manuel Raul , Rehman Usman , Nopens Ingmar , Alvarado Andrés
Published: November 2021

UASB reactors are a promising option for environmentally friendly wastewater treatment due to their reduced carbon footprint and their capacity to treat a variety of wastewater strengths, among other recognized advantages over alternative wastewater treatment systems. The Influent Distribution System (IDS) is a critical structure for generating granules in a UASB reactor since it provides the required flow hydrodynamics for their formation. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficiency of five IDS configurations to generate ideal granulation conditions using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The IDS configurations were as follows: (C1) single radial inflow, (C2) upward axial inflow, (C3) downward distributed axial inflow, and two novel configurations in the form of (C4) double opposite radial inflow and (C5) downward tangential inflow. The hydrodynamic response of configuration C1 was validated in a physical model with dynamic Froude similitude. The granulation measurement was velocity-based in the reactor reaction zone using steady-state CFD simulations. The novel IDS configuration C4 was the one that resulted in the highest granulation volume, with up to 45.5% of the potential granulation volume of the UASB reactor, in contrast to the IDS C2 that obtained the lowest granulation with only 10.8%. Results confirm that the IDS directly impacts the hydrodynamics of the reactor and that model-based design can be used to ascertain IDS configurations that better promote granulation in UASB reactors.
Spatiotemporal Variations of Reference Evapotranspiration and Its Determining Climatic Factors in the Taihang Mountains, China
Authors: Kang Tingting , Li Zeng , Gao Yanchun
Published: November 2021

Reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is an effective measure of atmospheric water demand of the land surface. In-depth investigations of the relationship between ETo and primary climatic factors can facilitate the adaptable agriculture and optimize water management, especially in the ecologically fragile Taihang Mountains (THM). This work assessed the spatiotemporal dynamics of ETo and its driving climatic factors from 1973 to 2016 in THM. Results showed: (1) Annual ETo slightly increased during 1973–2016; relative humidity (RH) decreased more slowly, the temperature increased more rapidly, and wind speed (WS) decreased more rapidly at higher elevation than those at lower elevations; (2) two breakpoints occurred in ETo series at 1990 and 1997, and an “evaporation paradox” existed in 1973–1990; (3) ETo at higher elevations had greater sensitivity to changes in RH and lower sensitivity to changes in Tmax and WS. Sensitivity of ETo to minimum air temperature (Tmin) at middle elevations was lowest among three elevation bands; (4) RH and sunshine duration (SD) were the dominant climatic factors of ETo for most periods and stations. This study helps us understand the impact of climate change on ETo in mountainous areas and confirms reference evapotranspiration in high-elevation areas is particularly sensitive to climate change.
Improving GPR Imaging of the Buried Water Utility Infrastructure by Integrating the Multidimensional Nonlinear Data Decomposition Technique into the Edge Detection
Authors: Chen Chih-Sung , Jeng Yih
Published: November 2021

Although ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is effective to detect shallow-buried objects, it still needs more effort for the application to investigate a buried water utility infrastructure. Edge detection is a well-known image processing technique that may improve the resolution of GPR images. In this study, we briefly review the theory of edge detection and discuss several popular edge detectors as examples, and then apply an enhanced edge detecting method to GPR data processing. This method integrates the multidimensional ensemble empirical mode decomposition (MDEEMD) algorithm into standard edge detecting filters. MDEEMD is implemented mainly for data reconstruction to increase the signal-to-noise ratio before edge detecting. A quantitative marginal spectrum analysis is employed to support the data reconstruction and facilitate the final data interpretation. The results of the numerical model study followed by a field example suggest that the MDEEMD edge detector is a competent method for processing and interpreting GPR data of a buried hot spring well, which cannot be efficiently handled by conventional techniques. Moreover, the proposed method should be readily considered a vital tool for processing other kinds of buried water utility infrastructures.
Overview of Intelligent Vehicle Infrastructure Cooperative Simulation Technology for IoV and Automatic Driving
Authors: Ding Zirui , Xiang Junping
Published: November 2021

This paper reviews the development of vehicle road collaborative simulation in the new era, and summarizes the simulation characteristics of two core technologies in the field of transportation after entering the era of Intelligent Networking: Internet of Vehicles technology and automatic driving technology. This paper analyzes and compares the mainstream Internet of Vehicles (IoV) simulation and automatic driving simulation platforms on the market, deeply analyzes the model-based IoV simulation, and explores a new mode of IoV simulation in the era of big data. According to the latest classification standard of automatic driving in 2020, we summarize the simulation process of automatic driving. Finally, we offer suggestions on the development directions of intelligent network-connected vehicle simulation.
En Büyük Kâr “Sabır”
Authors: SOLMAZ Süleyman
Published: November 2021

Kur’ân-ı Kerîm’de zikri geçen ahlâkî terimlerden biri “sabır”dır. Sabır; yaşayan bütün dinlerde, beşerȋ his ve hasletlerin en temel unsurlarından kabul edilir. Bu yönüyle hem tasavvufî boyutta ayet ve hadislerde çok yer almış hem de dilimize, edebiyatımıza girmiştir. Klâsik Türk edebiyatında da aşk teması altında yer alan beyitlerde sabır konusu detaylı bir şekilde işlenmiştir.
Çalışmada bu derece önemli olan sabır kavramı üzerinde durulmuş, tanımı yapılmış, hayatımızdaki ve edebiyatımızdaki yerine değinildikten sonra Klâsik Türk edebiyatı alanında eser veren şairlerden seçtiğimiz beyitlerle derinlemesine incelenmeye çalışılmıştır. Bu noktada maddeler halinde tasnif etmeye çalıştığımız noktalarda şairlerin beyitleri örnek olarak verilmiş, son olarak ise genel bir sonuca varılmıştır.
Her ne kadar âşıklarda sabr ü sükûn yok deniyorsa da birçok şaire göre sabırdan daha büyük bir kâr yoktur.
Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load of Four Local Fruits of Benin Among Apparently Healthy Young Adult Subjects
Authors: Gomina Moutawakilou , Lawin Edwige , Salifou Tarik , Djidonou Gilbert , Zinsou Stanislas
Published: November 2021

Background: Daily consumption of fruits is recommended due to their positive impact on the control of glycemia, cholesterol and coronary heart disease. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the glycemic index and glycemic load (GL) of four local fruits grown in Benin, namely papaya, pineapple, watermelon and grafted mango, among apparently healthy young adult subjects. Methods: This research work, being an interventional study of quasi-experimental category, involved 33 voluntary adult subjects (mean age: 23.4±1.9 years; mean body mass index: 21.38±1.89 kg/m2 ) distributed into 4 groups. The subjects of each group consumed the reference food (25 g of glucose or 50 g of white bread) twice a week with an interval of one week, and then a serving equivalent to 25 g of carbohydrates of each tested fruit in the morning after a 12-hour fasting on the evening. Plasma glucose was measured at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after food ingestion. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA, SPSS, 26). The P < 0.05 was regarded as the significance level. Results: The incremental area under the curve mean value in mmol.L-1.min-1 of pineapple (89.21±21.75) was higher (P <0.001) than those of mango (34.71±13.62), papaya (23.46±15.06) and watermelon (20.30±16.47). The mean glycemic index of mango (117.09±58.32) was significantly higher (P =0.007) than the ones of pineapple (52.97±29.87), papaya (46.77±45.77), and watermelon (41.04±34.06). The mean GL of mango (16.28±8.11) was significantly more elevated (P =0.001) than the ones of papaya (3.41±3.34), pineapple (6.36±3.58), and watermelon (2.54±2.11). Conclusion: Watermelon, papaya and pineapple may therefore be recommended for safe consumption in accordance with dietary guidelines.
Blood Pressure Regulating and Antioxidant Potentials of Theobroma Cacao Pod Husk Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Arise Rotimi , Farohunbi Samuel Tobi , Ayilara Halimat Olanike
Published: November 2021

Background: Agrowastes like Theobroma cacao (Cocoa) pod husk can be used to prepare bioactive peptides with various bio-functionalities. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate antioxidant and angiotensin converting enzyme I (ACE) inhibitory peptides contained in Theobroma cacao (cocoa) pod husks – an agro-waste. Methods: Protein isolated from cocoa pod husk was enzymatically digested with alcalase, pepsin, and trypsin. ACE inhibition, kinetics of ACE inhibition, and antioxidant properties of the cocoa pod husks hydrolysates were evaluated in vitro. Results: Trypsin and alcalase hydrolysates displayed higher peptide yields (63.1% and 61.2%) than pepsin hydrolysate (61.2%). However, no significant difference (P>0.05) was observed in the degree of hydrolysis (DH) of the three proteases on cocoa pod husk protein. Methionine, lysine, and cysteine were the amino acid residues presented in cocoa pod husk hydrolysates. A concentration-dependent ACE inhibition by cocoa pod husk hydrolysates was observed. The highest ACE inhibitions of 84.4%, 81.5%, and 73.5% were obtained at 2.0 mg/mL of pepsin, trypsin, and alcalase hydrolysates, respectively, with the minimum IC50 value of 0.36 mg/mL obtained for trypsin hydrolysate. An uncompetitive and mixed-type inhibition was obtained from double reciprocal plots of alcalase and pepsin as well as trypsin cocoa pod husk protein hydrolysates. The Ki values of ACE inhibition for pepsin, trypsin, and alcalase hydrolysates were 3.05, 2.19, and 3.57 mg/mL, respectively. A concentration-dependent increase in the scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and superoxide radicals as well as ferric reducing antioxidant power were recorded for the cocoa pod husk hydrolysates. Conclusion: Trypsin and alcalase cocoa pod husk protein hydrolysates could be an effective source of a natural ACE inhibitor and antioxidant.
Molecular Analysis of β-Globin Mutations Among β-Thalassemia Patients in Hamadan
Authors: Ramezani Fatemeh , Bahreini Fatemeh , Ranjbar Hossein , Soltanian Ali Reza
Published: November 2021

Background: β-Thalassemia (βT) is one of the most common genetic diseases. The specific mutation profile of that region can be identified by determining the specific mutations of each region and ethnicity. Objectives: This study investigated the β-globin mutations in patients with βT in Hamadan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 47 βT carriers. In the present study, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing technique was used to confirm βT carriers, and data were analyzed with SPSS-16 at a 95% confidence level. Results: In general, 164 individuals (81 men and 83 women) suspected of having thalassemia were examined, where 28.7 % (n=47) of them were identified by PCR-sequencing with βT carriers (48.8% male and 53.2% females). Hemoglobin beta (HBβ): c.251 del, HBβ: c.27dupG, and HBβ: c.92+5G>A mutations had the greatest effect on mean corpuscular volume (MCV) reduction, mean corpuscular HB (MCH) reduction, and HbA2 increment, respectively. The most common mutation in both males and females was the same (HBβ: c.315+1G>A). Conclusion: According to the results, the most common mutations in the diagnosis of βT in Hamadan were serially HBβ: c.315+1G>A mutation and HBβ: c.25-26del, HBβ: c.112del, HBβ: c.20A>T, HBβ: 92+6T>C, and HBβ: c.316-106C>G.
Comparison of Depression and Quality of Life after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in Patients With and Without Type D Personalities
Authors: Mali Shahriar , Khajehmougahi Nahid , Hajatnia Somaye , Farsham Aida , Hasibi Elham , Bidaki Reza
Published: November 2021

Background: Recently, some studies have investigated type D personality as a critical factor in developing depression and reducing the quality of life. Objectives: This study aimed to compare depression and quality of life after coronary artery bypass graft surgery in patients with and without type D personalities. Methods: Sixty-nine participants who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting at Imam Khomeini hospital, Ahvaz, Iran, referred to the cardiac surgery clinic for their first visit (1 to 1.5 months after surgery) were included in the study. All participants completed the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire, type D personality scale, and Beck’s Depression Inventory. Finally, depression and quality of life were compared in two groups with and without type D personalities using ANOVA and correlation tests. Results: The two groups were significantly different in depression and quality of life scores after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Depression and quality of life impairment were higher in participants with type D personality. There was no significant relationship between depression and quality of life with age, gender, and occupation in participants with type D personality. Conclusion: Depression and quality of life were higher in patients with type D personality after coronary artery bypass graft surgery than patients without type D personality. Episodic screening of these patients can prevent future somatic and psychological problems.
Punctuality of Patients and Physicians in an Outpatient Setting: Which Has a Greater Effect on Waiting Time?
Authors: Aeenparast Afsoon , Maftoon Farzaneh , Farzadi Faranak , Yahyazadeh Seyed Hossein
Published: November 2021

Background: Patients’ waiting time for healthcare services is identified as one of the key measurements of an effective health system. This factor has an important role in patients’ satisfaction as well. One factor that is related to the waiting time is patients’ punctuality. Objectives: the objective of this study was assessing the effect of patients’ and physicians’ punctuality on outpatients’ waiting time. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. The study population was outpatients that were admitted in clinics of a general non-educational hospital. 3500 samples were selected from all clinics. The sampling method was stratified randomized method. Samples were included after taking the informed consent. Data gathered by check lists that recorded the patients work flow at the clinic and the time of arrival to and departure of each station. Results: About 34% of patients had appointment that 98.5% of them were unpunctual. The correlation of patient unpunctuality (positive and negative) and their waiting time indicated that these variables had positive correlation (P<0.001). Assessing the correlation of physicians’ punctuality and patients’ waiting time indicated that these variables also had positive correlation (P<0.001). Conclusion: Appointment systems are very useful in controlling patients waiting time. This study identified that patient’s unpunctuality will increase patients waiting time. By the way negative punctuality will affect waiting time more that positive punctuality. Other important findings of this study were revealing the relation of physicians’ unpunctuality and patients’ waiting time. Punctuality of patients and providers are very important in the performance of appointment system in outpatient settings.
The vasodilatory effects of medicinal herbs on the cardiovascular system: A systematic review
Authors: Moradifar Nasrollah , Kiani Ali Asghar , Bakhtiari Navid , Amraei Morteza , Amin Arash
Published: November 2021

Vasodilators are drugs that induce or start the widening of blood vessels and are commonly applied to treat disorders with irregularly high blood pressure, including hypertension, congestive heart failure, and angina. The present study aims to systematically review the studies on the vasodilation effects of medicinal herbs. The study was done according to the 06- Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and registered in the CAMARADES-NC3Rs Preclinical Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Facility (SyRF) database. Various English databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, were used to find publications about the vasodilation effects of medicinal herbs with no date limitation. The searched terms and keywords words were: "medicinal herbs", "medicinal plants", "vasodilator", "vasorelaxant", "hypertension", "high blood pressure", "vasodilation", "extract", "essential oil". Out of 1820 papers (up to 2020), 31 papers met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. The most important medicinal plants with vasodilation/vasorelaxant activity belonged to the family Asteraceae (19.4%) followed by Zingiberaceae (9.7%). Aerial parts (30.5%), leaves (30.5%), followed by roots (11.1%) were the most common parts used in the studies. The findings showed that ethanolic extract (33.3%), followed by aqueous extract (22.2%) and methanolic extract (19.4%) was the frequency used extraction methods, whereas the essential oil (13.9%) and hydroalcoholic extract (8.3%) were the second most used herbal remedies. The results of the current review study revealed that the plant vasodilatory agents were might be used as an alternative and complementary source to treat hypertension as they had lower important toxicity. Nevertheless, more investigations, particularly clinical trials, are needed to clear this suggestion.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the methanolic extract of Siphonochilus aethiopicus rhizomes
Authors: Dadaya Elize , Koubala Benoit Bargui , Abaissou Herve Ngatanko , Zingue Stéphane , Ndjonka Dieudonne
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Siphonochilus aethiopicus is a medicinal plant widely used in the treatment of many inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of methanolic extract of S. aethiopicus rhizomes. Methods: The total phenolic compounds, flavonoid, and tannin content, as well as the in vitro antioxidant activity of the extract, were estimated. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was then evaluated in male mice aged 3 to 4 months using the arthritic mouse model induced by carrageenan (0.05 ml; 1%) and monosodium urate (MSU) crystals (26.6 mg/mL). Mice were treated with the methanolic extract of S. aethiopicus (75, 150, 300 mg/kg) and the reference drugs: indomethacin (3 mg/kg) and colchicine (1 mg/kg). The serum, splenic, and hepatic lysosomal enzymes were determined, and oxidative stress biomarkers were estimated. Paws were sectioned for histological analysis. Results: Results showed that S. aethiopicus extract had non-negligible concentrations of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, which could confer it an antioxidant effect. Further, the methanolic extract of S. aethiopicus at different doses significantly (P < 0.05) reduced paw swelling, attenuated joint inflammation, limited the release of lysosomal enzymes, and improved antioxidant enzymes. Conclusion: The methanolic extract of S. aethiopicus has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and can be used to treat acute forms of gouty arthritis.
Two new flavonoids and anticancer activity of Hymenosporum flavum: in vitro and molecular docking studies
Authors: Taher Rehab Fikry , Al-Karmalawy Ahmed A. , Abd El Maksoud Ahmed I. , Khalil Hany , Hassan Amr , El-Khrisy Ezzel-Din A. , El-Kashak Walaa
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Hymenosporum flavum (Hook.) F. Muell. is the sole species within the genus Hymenosporum is known for its antimicrobial activity. The current study aims to examine the prospective activity of H. flavum as a safe supporter of sorafenib (as a reference standard) against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Isolation and identification of compounds were made by chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. A fingerprint for the plant extract was done using HPLC-MS/MS spectrometric analysis. The total plant extract was examined in vitro for HCC activity. The isolated flavonoids were examined for their cytotoxic activities using molecular docking studies against both RAF-1 and ERK-2, and the promising compounds were further examined in vitro using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results: Two new flavonols were isolated from the leaf extract of H. flavum (Hook.) F. Muell., quercetin-3-O-(glucopyranosyl 1→2 ribopyranoside) (1) and kaempferol-3-O-(glucopyranosyl 1→2 ribopyranoside) (2), accompanying other six known flavonoids (3-8), and identified via spectroscopic analysis. Moreover, HPLC- PDA/MS/MS spectrometric analysis revealed the presence of seventy phenolic metabolites. The cytotoxic activity of the plant extract confirmed its potential action on HepG2 cells indicated by the production level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) upon treatment compared with the normal cells. The isolated flavonoids were examined for their cytotoxic activity using molecular docking studies against both RAF-1 and ERK-2 as proposed mechanisms of their anticancer activities. Furthermore, compounds 1 and 3, which showed the best in silico results, were further examined in vitro using qRT-PCR. They exhibited promising inhibitory activities against both RAF-1 and ERK-2 gene expression. Moreover, they showed promising cytotoxic activities indicated by the MTT assay. Also, both of them improved the efficiency of sorafenib in targeting both RAF-1 and ERK-2 pathways suggesting synergistic combinations. Conclusion: Our findings showed the potential cytotoxic activity of H. flavum extract on HepG2 cells. Some isolated compounds (1 & 3) exhibited promising inhibitory activities against both RAF-1 and ERK-2 gene expression giving a lead future study for these compounds to be used in pharmaceutical preparations either alone or in combination with sorafenib.
Neuroprotective effect of methanolic extract of Sargassum wightii on rotenone-induced parkinsonism-like symptoms in Wistar albino rats
Authors: Rout Sradhasini , Rath Bandana , Bhattamisra Subrat Kumar , Kumar Anjan , Rath Ishani , Panigrahy Preetish Kumar
Published: November 2021

Introduction: The pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is multifactorial in which oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction are the leading factors. Currently, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents of natural sources as neuroprotectants have raised much attention. The current study aimed to explore the neuroprotective effect of methanolic extract of Sargassum wightii in male Wistar albino rats against rotenone-induced PD. Methods: The rats were administered with rotenone (10 mg/kg orally) daily for 28 days to induce PD. S. wightii (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) and levodopa+carbidopa combination (10 mg/kg) were administered to different groups of rats one hour prior to rotenone for 28 days. Behavioral parameters (akinesia, tremor, motor coordination, and locomotor activities) and body weight were recorded on days 14th and 28th of drug treatment. On the 28th day, the animals were sacrificed for the neurobiochemical analyses of brain tissue. Results: Rotenone treatment caused a significant reduction in behavioural parameters (P < 0.001), neurochemical deficits (P < 0.001), and elevation of oxidative stress markers (P < 0.001) in the brain. Pre-treatment with S. wightii at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg doses significantly attenuated the rotenone-induced behavioral alterations and restored the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase activity and dopamine level in the striatum (P < 0.001). Moreover, 400 mg/kg of S. wightii restored the rotenone-induced increased oxidative stress markers like malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) in the striatum (P < 0.01). Conclusion: S. wightii has provided a neuroprotective effect, probably by virtue of its antioxidant and dopamine restoring potential. Hence, it may offer a promising and new therapeutic lead for the treatment of PD but needs further research.
Neuroprotective effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Commiphora caudata (Wight & Arn) against lipopolysaccharide-induced neurotoxicity in Wistar rats
Authors: Srinivasan Ponmalai , Arul Balasubramanian , Kothai Ramalingam
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Commiphora caudata contains various essential phytoconstituents and is a potential medicinal plant used traditionally to treat various ailments such as neurodegenerative diseases. The present study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Commiphora caudata against the lipopolysaccharides (LPS) induced behavioral changes in rats. Methods: The in-vitro antioxidant potential was evaluated by 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay methods. For in-vivo studies, the animals were pre-treated with ethanolic leaf extract of Commiphora caudata (EECC) at 200 and 400 mg/kg of b.w for 30 days, and neurotoxicity was induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of LPS 1 mg/kg, b.w on day 31. The neurotoxicity was evaluated with a chain of behavioral tests such as the Morris water maze test, radial arm maze, and choice reaction time (CRT) tests. At the end of the study, rats were sacrificed, the brain hippocampal region was removed, and the levels of acetylcholinesterase, nitric oxide, and protein were measured. Results: The IC50 value in the DPPH method was 71.58 ± 15.62 μg, and the total antioxidant activity of EECC was found to be 742.33 ± 14.57 μmol Fe (II)/g extract. In behavioral tests, animals treated with EECC at 200 and 400 mg/kg showed a neuroprotective effect in the Morris water maze test, an 8-arm radial maze test, and in the CRT test. Both doses reduced acetylcholinesterase, nitric oxide, and protein levels (P < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion: The present study results showed the promising neuroprotective effects of ethanolic extract of leaves of Commiphora caudata and its action against the LPS-induced cognitive impairment in rats.
Bone metabolic disorder and its contributing factors in patients with chronic kidney disease; a three-year cohort study
Authors: Eftekharian Kourosh , Eftekhar Ardebili Hassan , Shojamoradi Mohammad Hossein , Samimi Sahar
Published: November 2021

Introduction: The prevalence of bone mineral disorder is best known in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, but less data is available for the earlier stages. Objectives: We aimed to compare the prevalence of bone metabolic disorder at all stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and assess its contribution to CKD progression and patients’ outcome. Patients and Methods: In a retrospective cohort study, CKD patients who were under treatment for three years were selected from a nephrology clinic in Tehran, Iran. Patients’ demographic and laboratory data, as well as the outcome of their treatment were gathered and analyzed. Results: In 473 patients with an average age of 61.5, 60.1% were at stage III, 35.8% were at stage IV, and 4.1% were at stage V of CKD. There was a significant relationship between CKD stage and serum phosphate, calcium-phosphate product, and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Furthermore, the patients’ outcome was significantly related to advanced stages of CKD, higher first phosphate level, diabetes mellitus in medical history, and higher stages of SBP. By multiple Cox regression analysis, after adjustment for glomerular filtration rate (GFR), the first serum phosphate level, and the calcium-phosphate product did not contribute to the undesirable outcome. Conclusion: Although bone metabolic disorder is more frequently seen in advanced stages of chronic kidney disease, these changes can be seen even in earlier stages of the disease. The influence of phosphate abnormality in the patients’ outcome should be studied more in earlier stages for better control.
Development of Chitosan–Tripolyphosphate Nanoparticles as Glycopeptide Antibiotic Reservoirs and Ex vivo Evaluation for Their Potential to Enhance the Corneal Permeation in Ocular Drug Delivery
Authors: Safari Farhad , Mirzaeei Shahla , Mohammadi Ghobad
Published: November 2021

Purpose: The present investigation aimed to prepare Vancomycin-loaded nanoparticles (VAN-NPs) using chitosan (CS) and tripolyphosphate (TPP) besides exploring the effects of changing CS/TPP ratio on the physicochemical properties, corneal permeation, and ocular delivery of the prepared NPs. Methods: Different pre-formulations were prepared using the modified ionic gelation process, then were characterized in terms of size distribution. Optimized formulations were furtherly evaluated by some characteristic tools such as Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The in vitro antimicrobial efficacy and drug release amounts along with the Ex-vivo corneal permeation of NPs through the sheep cornea were investigated. Quantification was performed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Results: Spherical and uniformly distributed NPs were developed with a mean particle size varied between 215–290 nm. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed that the CS/TPP cross-linking has taken place without affecting the pharmacologically active moiety of the drug. The obtained zeta potential values were in the range of +34 to +37 mV, which could ensure the stability of formulations. TGA analysis indicated enhanced thermal stability for the encapsulated drug compared to the plain drug. Formulations indicated suitable antimicrobial efficacy while releasing more than 90% of the drug during 24 h. NPs offered a 10-fold enhancement in corneal permeation compared to the drug solution. Conclusions: Although further in vivo evaluation is still required to completely confirm the efficacy of the formulations, the enhanced release and corneal permeation of the drug suggest that the prepared NPs are suitable for ocular delivery of VAN.
Can psychobiotics administration influence behavioral responses and physiological stress in healthy rats?
Authors: Morshedi Mohammad , Bavafa Valenlia Khadijeh , Saghafi-Asl Maryam , Hadi Saeid , Hadi Vahid , Mirghazanfari Seyed Mehdi , Askari Gholamreza
Published: November 2021

Background: There is a well-documented cross-talk between the gut and brain. Evidence is accumulating to suggest beneficial effects of psychobiotics [prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics] on psychological distress in disease states. However, their role in healthy status remains relatively unclear. Objectives: The present study was aimed to clarify if psychobiotics could influence behavioral responses and physiological stress in healthy rats. Methods: In the present experiment, 28 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (healthy rats treated by Lactobacillus plantarum (L.plantarum), inulin and their combination (synbiotic) and control group). Then, psychobiotics were administered to the intervention groups for 8 weeks. Behavioral tests (Morris water maze, Elevated plus maze, and Forced swimming test) were performed at the endpoint. Then, serum and brain levels of superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and serotonin were measured. Results: Our finding indicated that unlike inulin, the administration of L.plantarum and synbiotic could ameliorate depression and anxiety-like behavior and cognitive performance (P<0.05). Serum and brain oxidative stress markers were significantly improved by synbiotic consumption. Intake of L.plantarum led to decreased oxidative stress in the hippocampus and amygdala (P<0.05). Moreover, a significant increase in hippocampal serotonin and BDNF concentration was observed after synbiotic and L.plantarum intake (P<0.05). In addition, there was a strong correlation of serum and brain markers with behavioral performance (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Our study suggests that psychobiotics therapy may have favorable effects on the amelioration of psychological disorders.
Expression, purification and characterization of anti-FGF7 domain antibody identified using phage display technique
Authors: Alizadeh Aliakbar , Roshani Mona , Jamshidi Kandjani Omid , Soltani-Saif Milad , Dastmalchi Siavoush
Published: November 2021

Background: Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are involved in angiogenesis, wound healing and embryonic development. However, one of the causes of cancer cell growth in fibroblast-dependent cancers is FGF7 secreted by fibroblasts. Therefore, antibodies against FGF7 can be used for treatment of these types of cancers. Methods: In previous studies, a phage displaying single domain antibody, D53, against human FGF7 has been identified using the phage display technique. In the present study, D53 was produced and purified in its isolated form. ELISA experiment was performed to evaluate the binding of D53 to FGF7. The mode of interaction of D53-FGF7 was explored using docking study and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Results: The expression and purification processes were verified using western blotting and SDS-PAGE analyses. ELISA experiment showed that D53 is able to recognize and bind FGF7. Docking study and MD simulations indicated that compared to dummy VH, D53 has more affinity towards FGF7. Conclusion: The findings in the current study can be useful for generation and development of FGF7 inhibitors with potential use in fibroblast-dependent cancers.
Державна політика соціального захисту внутрішньо переміщених осіб у харківському регіоні України
Authors: Kuts H. М.  , Nakonechny V. V.  , Kuts Y. O.  , Serheeva O.Yu.
Published: November 2021

У статті здійснено аналіз масиву вторинної соціологічної інформації стосовно проблематики соціального захисту внутрішньо переміщених осіб в Україні та на Харківщині, зокрема. Виявлено пріоритетні напрями соціального захисту внутрішніх мігрантів на Харківщині: забезпечення житлом; працевлаштування; доступ до медичного обслуговування. Аргументовано, що соціальний проект із працевлаштування “Рука допомоги” став найуспішнішим у соціальній сфері для вимушених переселенців. Сфокусовано увагу на проблемах організаційного характеру в отриманні соціальних послуг внутрішніми мігрантами. Виявлено базові характеристики соціально-демографічного портрету внутрішніх мігрантів у Харківській області, зокрема, високий рівень освіти, що вимагає гнучкості у формуванні стратегій їхнього працевлаштування. Разом із тим, здійснення державної політики щодо соціального захисту внутрішніх мігрантів характеризується фрагментарністю та відсутністю стратегічного бачення у вирішенні багатьох питань.
Питання взаємодії суб’єктів публічного управління земельними ресурсами громади
Authors: Kojurina V.M.
Published: November 2021

У статті доведено необхідність підвищення якості взаємодії суб’єктів публічного управління земельними ресурсами як одного з показників успішності менеджменту і розвитку громади. В рамках даного дослідження до суб’єкти управління віднесено: раду громади та її виконавчі органи, районні державні адміністрації, районні ради, територіальні органи Держгеокадастру, громаду (як сукупність жителів), проаналізовано їх функції та структуру, нормативну базу, що регулює відповідні повноваження. На основі візуалізованої автором моделі взаємодії органів державної влади, органів місцевого самоврядування, мешканців громади з питань публічного управління земельними ресурсами виокремлено взаємозв’язки (реально сформовані та ті, які лише номінально встановлені законодавством). Виділено недоліки та прогалини в регулюванні механізмів взаємодії, до яких віднесено: неврегульованість статусу районних державних адміністрацій та районних рад у контексті земельних повноважень (зокрема, невідповідність функцій структурі); відсутність мотивації до співпраці суб’єктів управління; необхідність унормування механізму управління державними землями, що знаходяться на території громади; необхідність напрацювання і закріплення дієвих механізмів залучення громадського сектору до прийняття рішень; розробка дієвої системи контролю у сфері земельних відносин, з урахуванням значного розширення повноважень органів місцевого самоврядування та нового етапу формування ринку землі.

В статті запропоновано перелік заходів для врегулювання спірних питань, налагодження взаємодії між суб’єктами публічного управління, завершення земельної децентралізації. До таких заходів віднесено: введення районної префектури, земельний відділ якої буде виконувати контрольно-наглядові повноваження, координувати горизонтальну взаємодію, зокрема у сфері управління спільними земельними ресурсами громад; а також, законодавче закріплення механізмів участі громади в прийнятті рішень, нормативно визначити проведення місцевого референдуму як форми безпосередньої демократії. Визначено, що запропоновані заходи сприятимуть підвищенню ефективності публічного управління основним ресурсом територіальної громади – землею, зниженню корупційних ризиків, створенню умов для розвитку ринку землі.
Фінансова самостійність територіальних громад: зміст державної політики
Authors: Mieush N.V.
Published: November 2021

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Детермінація корупції в органах публічного управління місцевого рівня
Authors: Cheban O.I.
Published: November 2021

Розгляд феномену корупції у діяльності органів публічного управління проведено за допомогою детермінації як методологічного підходу дослідження цього складного явища. Даний підхід дозволив розглянути та виділити суб’єктивні та об’єктивні фактори корупції. Ці фактори розглядаються у тісному взаємозв’язку обумовленості та причинності. Корупція в діяльності органів публічної влади на місцевому рівні розглядається як продовження корупції на вищому рівні та політичної корупції. Також корупція на місцевому рівні визначається як сукупність факторів особистої поведінки людини та зовнішнього впливу – «захоплення влади» місцевими групами інтересів тощо.
Субсидіарність як архетип європейської співдружності
Authors: Ignatenko L.Yu.  , Kuznetsov A.O.
Published: November 2021

У статті розглянуто проблему архепитічності субсидіарності в європейській спільноті. Виділено сім етичних принципів цього явища. Доведено, що спочатку варто ретельно проаналізувати, які повноваження має зберігати держава, які повноваження можуть бути надані територіальним громадам, а які повноваження слід зберігати на рівні принципу субсидіарності з урахуванням етичних принципів, що є притаманними суспільству.
Надання адміністративних послуг, як складова публічних послуг: теоретичний аспект
Authors: Sydorenko N.О.  , Shkurat I.V.
Published: November 2021

Стаття присвячена дослідженню теоретичних аспектів надання адміністративних послуг як складової публічних послуг. З’ясовано, що під терміном “послуга” слід розуміти корисну дію, яка допомагає іншому, досягаючи при цьому чітко визначену мету та використовуючи різного роду інструменти для її досягнення. Розглянуто основні підходи до трактування сутності поняття “публічні послуги”. Встановлено, що під публічними послугами слід розуміти суспільно важливу роботу державних та місцевих органів влади, установ та організацій, які їм підпорядковуються, покликану задовольняти суспільні потреби та запити. Розкрито сутність поняття “адміністративні послуги”, що дало дійти висновку, що адміністративні послуги є головним елементом публічних послуг, які надають органи публічної влади, та які пов’язані із виконанням владних повноважень. Розглянуто головні ознаки притаманні адміністративним послугам.
Analisis Kesesuaian Kawasan Perairan untuk Ekowisata Diving di Pulau Soreh Kabupaten Bintan
Authors: Ramlan M , Kurniawan Dedy , Susiana
Published: November 2021

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui potensi ekologis serta analisis kesesuaian dan daya dukung kawasan perairan Pulau Soreh untuk ekowisata diving. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode survei dengan teknik pengambilan sampel secara purposive sampling yang terdiri dari 2 stasiun. Pengambilan data karang mengunakan metode PIT (Point Intersept Transect), data ikan menggunakan metode UVC (Underwater Visual Census), data kecerahan mengggunakan secchi disc, data kecepatan arus menggunakan botol berisi air dan dikat dengan tali berukuran yang sudah ditentukan, data kedalaman menggunakan bandul atau pemberat dengan tali yang sudah ditentukan ukurannya dan data sosial dengan metode wawancara. Berdasarkan hasil pengamatan potensi tutupan karang hidup sebesar 1–70 %, kecerahan perairan memiliki kecerahan berkisar 47,2-100%, jumlah jenis life form karang sebanyak 1-13 jenis, jenis ikan karang sekitar 4-14 jenis, kecepatan arus sebesar 10,82-13,36 cm/detik, kedalaman terumbu karang sekitar 3,50-10 meter, aksesibilitas sebanyak 1 aspek, dan biota berbahaya sebanyak 1 jenis. Kesesuaian wisata diving di Perairan P. Soreh pada setiap stasiun merupakan kawasan yang sesuai untuk dilakukan pengembangan ekowisata diving. Daya dukung terumbu karang untuk pengembangan ekowisata diving di Perairan P. Soreh pada setiap stasiun sesuai untuk dilakukan pengembangan wisata diving.
PENERTIBAN DAN PENDAYAGUNAAN TANAH TERLANTAR DALAM RANGKA PENATAGUNAAN TANAH DI KOTA TARAKAN
Authors: Cariono Cariono
Published: November 2021

Abstract The presence of land controlled and / or owned by either existing rights above the ground and based on the new land acquisition in some places there are still many in limbo. Seeing the reality of the field on the wastelands, he made government regulation and government last issued Government Regulation No. 11 Year 2010 on Land Reform and Control of Neglected. Based on this background, the problem is formulated, what basic criteria for establishing a right to the top of the ground as the object of regulating the wastelands, who preferred to get right to the land above the ground of the former wastelands, this research was normative approach legislation conceptual and legal materials. The results showed that the controlling authority is the authority wastelands legacy which the Government (President) delegate to the National Land Agency of the Republic of Indonesia. The mechanism through penertibannya stages: (1) an inventory of land rights or land tenure policies that indicated displaced (2) identification and study of land indicated displaced (3) warning against the rights holder (4) Determination of wastelands. Other Issues Regarding legal protection against former titleholders.Keywords: effectiveness, enforcement, wastelands