bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties of the solar wind parameters associated with the enhanced Russell-McPherron Effect in March 2008
Authors: Zhao Ming-Xian , Le Gui-Ming
Published: June 2023

We study the properties of the solar wind parameter associated with the enhanced Russell-McPherron (R-M) effect that occurred on 8–9 March 2008. The solar wind during the period from 01:33 UT and 05:24 UT on 9 March 2008 (hereafter Period2) makes a dominant contribution to the ring current intensity of the geomagnetic storm that occurred on 8–9 March 2008. It is usually accepted that the enhanced R-M effect is due to the negative ByGSE around the spring equinox. However, we found that ByGSE are positive during most of Period2. The enhanced R-M effect described by the enhanced ring current effect estimated by the empirical formulae created by Burton et al. (1975) and by O’Brien & McPherron (2000) for the solar wind during Period2 are −33.23 nT and −26.45 nT, respectively. However, the real ring current effect caused by the solar wind during Period2 is −88.10 nT. The reason that we find is that the solar wind dynamic pressure is high during Period2. The results of this study indicate that the enhanced R-M effect described by the enhanced ring current effect not only depends BzGSM, but also depends on the solar wind dynamic pressure. The enhanced ring current effect around the spring equinox of 2008 caused by BzGSM, is amplified by the solar wind dynamic pressure by about 3 times.
Harnessing Emerging Digital Technologies to Promote Equitable, Diverse and Inclusive Supply Chains: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mwangakala Hilda , Mongi Hector , Ishengoma Fredrick , Shao Deo , Chali Frederick , Mambile Cesilia , Julius Bernard
Published: June 2023

Purpose
The impact of digital transformation in agriculture, including innovations in crop supply chains, is global. Despite that, the level of this technology practice varies across countries, regions, crop types, technologies, socio-economic statuses, and cultures. In the literature, there needs to be more evidence for digital technologies’ role in the role of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) to improve agricultural supply chains (ASC). Thus, this scoping study synthesizes extant research on the extent to which Emerging Digital Technologies (EDTs) promote EDI in the ASC.
Methodology:
A scoping approach to systematic literature review (SLR) was applied to achieve the objective by deploying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews. The methodology guided the process of conducting the scoping review step by step.
Findings:
Emerging technologies have been found to focus much on some parts of the ASC (such as transportation) where there are limited studies in other ASC parts. Most emerging technologies have been employed in the food supply chain where there is limited literature on the cash crops supply chain.
Research limitations/implications:
The evidence gathered through this study informs innovation policies and prioritizes opportunities for future research and practices in the area. IoT, Blockchain, and Machine Learning are among the technologies worth detailed study for EDI in agricultural supply chain innovations. Each of these provides unique contributions but is subject to further evaluation, re-development, and deployment that considers the local context, nature of innovation, and other dynamics within the ecosystem.
Originality/value:
This review provides insight into the current body of knowledge on the role of EDTs towards addressing EDI in ASC.
Application of high performance one-dimensional chaotic map in key expansion algorithm
Authors: Li Yuxuan
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we present a key expansion algorithm based on a high-performance one-dimensional chaotic map. Traditional one-dimensional chaotic maps exhibit several limitations, prompting us to construct a new map that overcomes these shortcomings. By analyzing the structural characteristics of classic 1D chaotic maps, we propose a high-performance 1D map that outperforms multidimensional maps introduced by numerous researchers in recent years. In block cryptosystems, the security of round keys is of utmost importance. To ensure the generation of secure round keys, a sufficiently robust key expansion algorithm is required. The security of round keys is assessed based on statistical independence and sensitivity to the initial key. Leveraging the properties of our constructed high-performance chaotic map, we introduce a chaotic key expansion algorithm. Our experimental results validate the robust security of our proposed key expansion algorithm, demonstrating its resilience against various attacks. The algorithm exhibits strong statistical independence and sensitivity to the initial key, further strengthening the security of the generated round keys.
TARGETED THERAPY OF ANAPLASTIC THYROID CANCER
Authors: Kononenko Mykola , Duzhiy Ihor , Moskalenko Yuliia
Published: June 2023

Introduction. Anaplastic thyroid cancer is an aggressive disease with meager patient survival. The tumors are often unresectable and insensitive to standard treatment methods (chemotherapy and radioiodine therapy). In recent years, much attention has been paid to new therapeutic strategies, mainly targeted therapy.
The purpose of our study was to summarize the data on targeted drugs used to treat anaplastic thyroid cancer and establish the main side effects associated with their use.
Materials and methods. A scientific search was conducted in Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The following search terms were used: "anaplastic thyroid cancer," "targeted therapy," and "clinical trials."
Results. A literature search was conducted regarding targeted drugs to treat anaplastic thyroid cancer. The results of clinical trials using BRAF/MEK, RET, NTRK, mTOR, and TKI inhibitors were analyzed. Several clinical trials have demonstrated that dabrafenib, combined with trametinib, has a sufficiently high therapeutic effect and can effectively treat anaplastic thyroid cancer. Other targeted drugs show limited clinical response, such as NTRK inhibitors, TKIs, and other BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Some drugs (e.g., lenvatinib) may only be effective with other anticancer agents. RETi and mTORi are believed to have some therapeutic potential, but more than several clinical trials are needed to evaluate their effectiveness.
Discussion. The main reason for the relapse of the disease and the ineffectiveness of targeted drugs is the appearance of new mutations. The RAS mutation is responsible for resistance to the combination of dabrafenib and trametinib; the S100A4 protein is responsible for the ineffectiveness of vemurafenib. Developing new drugs capable of overcoming resistance mechanisms is necessary to solve this problem.
Conclusions. Targeted therapy is a promising direction in the treatment of anaplastic thyroid cancer. Side effects are common but mostly manageable.
EFFECTIVENESS OF LYMPHOTROPIC THERAPY IN THE PATIENTS WITH ACUTE APPENDICITIS AND ITS COMPLICATED FORMS
Authors: Duzhyi Igor , Shymko Volodymyr , Pyatikop Hennadiy , Pak Vasyl
Published: June 2023

Introduction. Despite using the latest generations of antibiotics and modern methods of their introduction in the surgical treatment of acute appendicitis, purulent-septic complications keep occurring, accounting for 45% of fatal outcomes in the patients operated on for this disease.
Materials and methods. Patients were divided into two groups. The main group included patients who were administered antibiotics and pathogenetic drugs locally to the ileocecal zone by means of lymphotropic administration. The comparison group included patients who received standard antibiotic therapy.
Results. On the 5th day of the postoperative period, the level of IgA in the main group was 1.16 ± 0.7 mg/ml, and in the comparison group – 1.54 ± 0.8 mg/ml. The level of elastase in the operated patients of the main group decreased to 111.797 ± 21.39 nmol/min × ml, i.e., by 2.4 times (p <0.001), and in patients of the comparison group – to 179.605 ± 26.79 nmol/min × ml, i.e., by 1.5 times (p <0.05). Under the influence of lymphotropic administration of the antibiotic, the volume of the spleen decreased by the 5-th day to 281.22 ± 18.8 cm³, i.e., 145.44 cm³, and with standard administration of antibiotics, the spleen decreased within the period to 344.71 ± 21.13 cm³, i.e., by 79.54 cm³, which is less by 66 cm³, or 1.8 times (p <0.05) vs. main group.
Conclusions. The proposed method of antibiotic therapy is a preventive measure against purulent-septic complications, especially in its destructive forms, improves the results of treatment of patients with acute appendicitis, and shortens their term of staying in the hospital, which has a positive impact on financial status.
Patterns of distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the system water–hydrobionts system of the lake Baikal
Authors: Belyk L. I. , Glyzina O. Y.
Published: June 2023

The results of model experiments designed to study the distribution patterns for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) of various structures and solubility (naphthalene, anthracene, pyrene, benz(a)pyrene) in the water system of the Lake Baikal (endemic species: freshwater sponge Lubomirskia baicalensis and haric algae Nitella sp.) are presented. The ability of hydrobionts to remove PAHs from aqueous solutions at the highest rate for the first 2-6 hours and with an efficiency of up to 70-95% of the initial content, depending on the mass and type of organism, exposure time, hydrophobicity (solubility) of the compound was revealed. The ability of hydrobionts to accumulate and convert PAHs was, which indicates the active participation of aquatic organisms in the processes of water self-purification from toxic and carcinogenic compounds. The ability to use hydrobionts as bioindicators for assessing the state of the aquatic environment of Lake Baikal was also demonstrated.
Analysis of the assessment and improvement of working conditions for drivers of technological vehicles on the example of the mining and transport complex of the Udachny MPP of AK Alrosа
Authors: Maksimova M. A.
Published: June 2023

Working conditions of drivers of technological transport on the example of the depot of Alrosа AK were assessed, effective management solutions aimed to reduce their professional risks based on improving the labor protection system of transport enterprises of mining complexes were developed. The mining transport system of the Udachninsky MPP of Alrosa was characterized, the units of technological transport of the carpool were described; the structure of management of the carpool of technological transport was analyzed. The working conditions of drivers of the mining and transport system were studied based on the results of a special assessment of working conditions for 2021. The harmful production factors and the reasons for reducing their exposure levels were evaluated. Measures that allow the company to 

maintain acceptable working conditions for workplaces with the presence of harmful production factors were developed. The management decisions of Alrosa ensuring safe working conditions for drivers were presented. They can be implemented through large annual financial investments in personal protective equipment, periodic audits in the occupational health and industrial safety system and three-level control, and innovative technologies. The advanced methods of creating normative working conditions with minimal health risks were studied. The strategic management decisions that improve the industrial safety and labor protection in all divisions of this enterprise were described.
Methods to reduce the risk of injuries when training the classic bench press
Authors: Tarasenko V. A.
Published: June 2023

Playing sports and exercising is a great way to stay healthy and active, but it is important to take precautions to avoid sports-related injuries. Injuries can prevent you from participating in your favorite activities and have long-term consequences that can affect health and well-being. Sports-related injuries can be prevented by taking precautions such as warming up, wearing appropriate equipment, using proper techniques, gradually increasing intensity, listening to your body, staying hydrated, and taking a few days off. By following these tips, you can stay safe during your workouts and prevent injuries, allowing you to continue enjoying sports benefits.
Prospects for coal as an energy resource in the context of the fourth energy transition
Authors: Timofeeva S. S. , Smirnov G. I.
Published: June 2023

Coal has long been not only one of the main energy resources, but also a valuable raw material for many economic branches. According to the established opinion, in comparison with other energy resources, coal has the maximum negative impact on the environment, however, this harm might be exaggerated reduced through the development of new technologies [1, 2], and alternative energy sources are not as safe as considered. Despite the signs of the fourth energy transition, in the short term, modern technologies cannot replace coal. This gives grounds to believe that in the foreseeable future the crucial role of hydrocarbons in the energy sector will not change significantly, and therefore it seems appropriate to determine the reduction of environmental risks when using coal as one of the main directions in the development of energy technologies.
Quantifying of objective poverty in the districts of the Banská Bystrica Region (Slovak Republic)
Authors: Trembošová Miroslava , Kramoliš Jan , Nagyova Ľudmila , Beresecká Janka , Dubcová Alena
Published: June 2023

Poverty, as a multispectral phenomenon caused by severe material depriving of the population, is now becoming one of the most watched socio-economic phenomena. Its scale and severity continue to increase in social consequences. The aim of the paper is to quantify and visualize the extent and level of poverty risk in the selected districts in Slovakia based on selected indicators and to compare their rates in 2015, 2019, and 2021.The methodology of the pilot case study is based on a multi-criteria assessment of the poverty rate in a statistically unprocessed territorial unit (district) through 19 objective indicators in three domains: socio-demographic, economic performance, and infrastructure. Metfessel allocation, Fuller, and Saaty methods were used for its evaluation. It is gratifying that the at-risk-of-poverty rate expressed by the synthesis of 19 indicators has decreased in all districts. In 2019, the poverty level decreased by 2.61 points (21.17%) compared to 2015 (23.78%). In 2021, the problem worsened again, and the poverty rate increased by 2.03 points to 23.2%. The Banská Bystrica region is characterized by low economic activity, reflected in the second lowest employment and the second highest unemployment rates, where up to 48.5% of the unemployed are under 35. The paper contributes to the growing debates on the inequality in living conditions, poverty, and marginalization, the scale and severity of which continue to increase in social consequences.
AcknowledgmentsThe article is supported by financial resources within the framework of Project no. 033SPU-4/2022 entitled “Functional, innovative and digital education of the subject Tourism Marketing.”
AÇIK HAVA OYUN PARKLARINDA RİSKLİ OYUNA ÇOK YÖNLÜ BAKIŞ
Authors: KALBURAN Nilgün , KAHRİMAN PAMUK Deniz , KOŞAN Yekta
Published: June 2023

Çocukların oyunlarında risk almaları ve oyun alanlarında riskli ekipmanların bulunmasının gelişimsel faydaları giderek daha fazla araştırmaya konu olmaktadır. Özellikle şehirleşmeyle birlikte çocukların oyun tercihleri de değişiklik göstermektedir. Bu araştırma Türkiye'de bulunan bir büyükşehir belediyesine ait açık hava oyun parklarının riskli oyun olanaklarının gözlemler ve görüşmelerle derinlemesine incelenmesini amaçlamaktadır. Araştırma kapsamında açık hava oyun parklarının fiziksel özellikleri ve çocukların bu parklardaki oyun davranışları gözlemlenmiş; ayrıca yerel yönetimlerden bir yetkili ve ailelerle yapılan görüşmelerle riskli oyunların potansiyel ve uygulamadaki destekleyicileri derinlemesine ortaya koyulmuştur. Araştırma sonunda, oyun park alanlarında yüksek hız ve büyük yükseklik kategorilerindeki unsurların sıklıkla gözlemlendiği fakat riskli oyunlarda kullanılabilecek tehlikeli unsur ve aletlerin neredeyse hiç gözlemlenemediği ortaya çıkmıştır. Oyun park alanlarında gözlemlenen ekipmanlara paralel olarak çocukların riskli oyunlarında da en sık yüksek hızda koşma ve yüksekliklerde sallanma/atlama gibi davranışların ortaya çıktığı bulunmuştur. Aileler ve yerel yetkili ile yapılan görüşmeler sonucunda; ekipmanlara karar verme süreçlerinin ve ailelerin riskli oyunlara yönelik görüşlerinin çocukların riskli oyunlarında rolü olduğunu söylemek mümkündür.
SİSTEM KURAMI ÇERÇEVESİNDE ÇALIŞMA YAŞAMININ AİLE SİSTEMİ ÜZERİNE ETKİLERİNİN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ: İŞÇİ AİLELER ÜZERİNE NİTEL BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: ERTEN Rabia
Published: June 2023

Araştırma kapsamında sistem kuramı çerçevesinde çalışma yaşamının aile sistemi ve aile ilişkileri üzerinde etkilerinin neler olduğunun anlaşılması amaçlanmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu Karaman ilinde ikamet eden ve buradaki fabrikalarda işçi olarak çalışan en az bir çocuğu olan 26 evli çift olmak üzere toplamda 52 kişi oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada nitel araştırma yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Derinlemesine mülakat ve kısmi katılımlı gözlem araştırmanın veri toplama teknikleridir. Yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formları kullanılarak görüşmeler gerçekleştirilmiştir. Katılımcıların onayı alınarak görüşmelerde ses kaydı yapılmıştır. Kayıtlar dinlenerek yazıya geçirilmiş, elde edilen metinler kodlanarak tematik olarak analiz edilmiştir. Katılımcıların fabrikadaki çalışma yaşamlarına, eşleri ve çocuklarıyla ilişkilerine, çalışma yaşamının aile ilişkileri üzerinde etkilerinin neler olduğuna dair bulgular elde edilmiştir. Katılımcıların çalışma yaşamlarının aile sistemi, eşler arası ilişkiler, ebeveyn-çocuk ilişkileri üzerinde önemli bir belirleyici olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
RGB-LED-PHOTOMETER AND THE DIGITAL IMAGE-BASED METHOD USING A SMARTPHONE FOR CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS TEACHING
Authors: dos Santos Vagner B. , de Oliveira Wevylla , de Almeida João Paulo , Foguel Marcos , Suarez Willian , de Oliveira Josiane
Published: June 2023

This work describes the analysis of molecular spectroscopy in the UV/Vis region, as well as the study of transmittance, absorption, and reflectance phenomena in an undergraduate class using an LED (light emitting diodes)-photometer and digital image-based (DIB) method using a smartphone to compare with a benchtop spectrophotometer and literature data employing paired T-test for 95% confidence. The novelties of this work are focused on the use of simple, low-cost, and portable analytical instrumentation, based on an RGB-LED photometer and DIB using a smartphone, for teaching Chemistry to undergraduate classes. Moreover, discussions were held on concepts related to the Beer-Lambert law, spectroscopy, pH, equilibrium shift, and calculation for determining the equilibrium constant and pKa of bromothymol blue, which was used as proof of concept. The advantages are the use of low-cost instrumentation for teaching Chemistry, students’ access to concepts, such as radiation source, photodetector, transmittance calculation from analog data, regulation of the power of the light emitted by the LED, and details to understand the interaction between matter and light were described by undergraduate students in Physics and Chemistry throughout the course of Experiments in Thermodynamic and Chemical Equilibrium. The better understanding of theoretical concepts and the possibility of taking the RGB-LED-photometer and DIB instrumentation to schools, exhibitions, science fairs, and Chemistry teaching meetings were pointed out by students as the main advantages of the instrumentation and methods described.
Dominator Coloring of Total Graph of Path and Cycle
Authors: Shukla Minal , Chandarana Foram
Published: June 2023

A dominator coloring of a graph G is a proper coloring in which every vertex of G dominates every vertex of at least one-color class possibly its own class and each color class is dominated by at least one vertex. The minimum number of colors required for dominator coloring of G is called the dominator chromatic number of G and is denoted by χdG. In this paper, we have established the relation between dominator chromatic number χdG, chromatic number χG and domination number γG. We have investigated results on total graphs of path and cycle with χdG = χ G + γ G and χdG = χ G + γ G - 1.
Electrotechnological Heat Treatment of Milk: Energy and Exergy Efficiency
Authors: Bagaev Andrei , Bobrovskiy Sergey
Published: June 2023

The dairy industry needs new and more energy-efficient technological procedure for milk pasteurization. This article introduces a comparative efficiency assessment of various milk pasteurization technologies and electrotechnological means.

The study featured milk, which was heated from 20 to 75°C with a capacity of 1000 kg/h at an estimated power of 58.95 kW. The treatment involved a steam-to-milk pasteurizer with electric indirect or direct heating, an induction pasteurizer, and a thermosiphon pasteurizer with direct or indirect electric heating. The study relied on the methods of energy and exergy analyses.

The system of steam-to-milk pasteurizer with electric indirect (elemental, induction) or direct (electrode) heating demonstrated the following indicators: exergy loss – 1.29 kW, power consumption – 71.29 kW, exergy efficiency – 0.99, energy efficiency – 0.827. The thermosiphon pasteurizer with direct or indirect electric heating demonstrated the following properties: exergy loss – 1.29 kW, power consumption – 60.92 kW, exergy efficiency – 0.99, energy efficiency – 0.9676. The induction pasteurizer had the least competitive parameters: exergy loss – 10.8 kW, power consumption – 70.43 kW, exergy efficiency – 0.867, energy efficiency – 0.837.

The thermosiphon pasteurizer with direct or indirect electric heating was able to increase the energy efficiency of milk pasteurization, while the induction pasteurizer proved to be a promising R&D direction.
Technological Properties of Dough from a Mix of Rye and Wheat Flour with Processed Sea Buckthorn
Authors: Koneva Svetlana , Zakharova Alexandra , Meleshkina Larisa , Egorova Elena , Mashkova Iryna
Published: June 2023

Processed fruit and berry raw materials often become part of bakery formulations. They increase the nutritional value of the finished product and change the rheological properties of the dough. Processed sea buckthorn (Hippophaё rhamnoides L.) maintains natural biochemical properties, which makes it a valuable food ingredient. The research objective was to conduct a comprehensive study of the technological properties of dough made of rye and wheat flour with sea buckthorn meal and dry sea buckthorn extract.

The research involved sea buckthorn extract and meal mixed with wheat and rye flour, as well as dough and bread from the experimental flour mixes. The experimental part included standard methods used in the bakery industry.

The sea buckthorn meal and extract contained protein (10.3 and 4.3%), crude fiber (8.7 and 0.3%), pectin (5.27 and 0.11%), and ascorbic acid (21.63 and 53.68 mg/100 g). They were highly acidic: 4.9 and 3.0%, respectively. As a result, protein substances and dietary fibers took a longer time to swell. The high acidity also inhibited α-amylase, which improved the rheological properties but increased the dough development time and stability. The sea buckthorn products had a positive effect on the starch crystallization processes and reduced the storage-related starch degradation. The sensory evaluation of the bread described its shape as regular, with fluffy crumb and pleasant sea buckthorn flavor.

Thus, sea buckthorn meal and extract proved excellent technological acidifiers and regulators of amylolytic activity. The additives made it possible to reduce the amount of liquid rye sourdough from 30 to 15% and the fermentation time because the dough acidity reached 7.5–8.0 degrees.
Neural Network and Home Hydroponics
Authors: Borodulin Dmitry , Shafrai Anton , Maksimenko Aleksandr
Published: June 2023

Hydroponics is a method of soilless cultivation of plants. It shortens the vegetation period, reduces the risk of disease and insect infestation, and provides a year-round growing cycle. Hydroponics depends on efficient water management. It is associated with a complex design, operation, and maintenance. Neural networks can control complex technological processes in agriculture. The research objective was to use a neural network to increase the efficiency of a home hydroponics system.

The study involved a nutrient bed hydroponics setup with ten Lactuca sativa plants. Sensors collected information about the temperature and humidity of air, illumination, and the temperature of the leaf surface. Data processing, neural network training, and microcontroller programming relied on Python 3, PyTorch, and MicroPython.

The four-layer perceptron, which is a popular control mechanism, turned out to be the most effective neural network architecture. Fewer layers resulted in a high error rate (≥ 5%). When the number of layers was > 4, the error level remained at that of the four-layer experiment (0.2%). Further practical tests showed an increase in energy efficiency by 32.3%, compared to the classical control algorithm at close values of plant transpiration.

Neural net technology could be integrated into energy-saving residential premises and smart home systems in order to increase the self-sufficiency of hydroponics installations.
Application of GIS using NDVI and LST estimation to measure climate variability-induced drought risk assessment in Ethiopia
Authors: Gelata Fikiru Temesgen , Jiqin Han , Chaka Gemeda Samerawit , Wubishet Asefa Birhan
Published: June 2023

The contribution of this paper is to assess the drought patterns using the Land Surface Temperature (LST) estimation index and examine the correlation between the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The main objective was to evaluate the spatiotemporal variation in agricultural drought patterns and severity in order to estimate and measure climate variability. According to the study's findings, the region experienced mild to severe meteorological drought periods 15–18 times over the study period. The majority of these periods (62.72%) were classified as mild drought (unusual dry circumstances), which usually only showed a slight departure from the distribution of rainfall that is close to normal. According to the findings, cropping seasons from 2013 to 2022 saw an increase in agricultural dryness and a decrease in grain yield, with varying degrees of severity in different geographic locations. Based on the result, the major difficulties and challenges identified were the shortage of drinking water, and impacts on air quality, and food and nutrition. Accordingly, agricultural drought risk mapping can be utilized to mitigate the risk associated with drought on agricultural productivity and guide decision-making processes in drought monitoring.
Editorial
Authors: De Araújo Marta Maria
Published: June 2023

.
Pediatric Phagophobia: A Systematic Review and a Case Report of
Pharmacological Interventions
Authors: AlAbdullah Haidar , Almulhim Abdulmohsin , Albanna Ammar
Published: June 2023

Background:

Phagophobia is characterized by conditioned excessive fear of swallowing or choking that is usually triggered by an incident. It usually leads to avoidance of certain types of food or, in severe forms, a complete refusal to eat solid food and/or liquids. The condition is commonly associated with physical and psychological symptoms impacting the health condition of the individual due to deprivation of essential nutrients.

Case Presentation:

A 12-year-old boy developed acute onset fear of swallowing (Phagophobia) following a dream he had of someone choking. This was exacerbated by watching an online video of a person choking. This has led to an avoidance of solid food and dependence on soft food and liquids. Fear of swallowing along with food avoidance has led to malnutrition, weight loss, and several physical complaints for which the patient was admitted under pediatric care. A course of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) resulted in limited response and was augmented with fluoxetine. Full remission was achieved within six weeks.

Methods:

A systematic review of all peer-reviewed English literature was performed for articles related to the pharmacological treatment of pediatric phagophobia (0-18 years) following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results:

A total of 17 case reports were identified describing 17 children with phagophobia (females = 70 %). The mean age was 9.3 and the average was between 2 and 15 years who were diagnosed with choking phobia/ phagophobia or different but equivalent diagnoses like Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder or Post Traumatic Feeding Disorder. Different classes of medications were used in variable doses for different durations which were associated with significant improvement in eating patterns and reduction in fear and anxiety associated with eating.

Conclusion:

Phagophobia is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness that can cause physical complications and functional impairment in the psychosocial aspect. Pharmacological treatment can be a beneficial and safe option either alone or in combination with therapeutic interventions for children presenting with phagophobia.
Coumarin-Derived Mannich Bases: A Review of Biological Activities
Authors: Luong La Quy , Vu Tran Khac
Published: June 2023

Mannich bases have a distinct place in the field of medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry.
These are used as lead compounds for the synthesis of numerous heterocyclic compounds, which possess
diverse biological activities and play pivotal roles. This review covers the latest literature and
knowledge on Mannich bases derived from coumarin. In addition, this review also aims to provide a
comprehensive overview of recent developments in medicinal chemistry and shed light on the biological
activities and structure-activity relationship (SAR) of coumarin-based Mannich bases.
Green and Regioselective Alkylation of Dihydropyrimidinthiones through
Michael Addition
Authors: Yaghoubi Fatemeh , imanzadeh Gholamhassan , Asgharzadeh Roghayyeh , Soltanzadeh Zahra , Öztürk Turan
Published: June 2023

Dihydropyrimidines are one of the most important heterocyclic ring systems having a serious
place in medicinal and organic synthesis. In this paper, a new series of dihydropyrimidines consisting
of sulfur atoms were synthesized using inorganic base K2CO3 and TBAB as an organic salt to
make high polarity in reaction media. Interestingly, different 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-thiones reacted
smoothly with various acrylic esters to afford adducts via highly regioselective N3-Michael addition
reaction was carried out at 100oC in 12 h. result: Unfortunately, the reaction failed with fumaric
esters owing steric effects. Avoiding organic solvents during this reaction effectively led to the development
of an economic approach. Structures of the new compounds were established on the basis of
1H NMR, 13C NMR, and IR spectral data.
Ionic Liquid Immobilized Pd Nanocatalysts for Chemoselective Reduction
of Aliphatic/Aromatic Nitro Compounds
Authors: Prakash Om , Jangir Bhawana , Srivastava Vivek
Published: June 2023

In this work, we have successfully synthesized four types of ionic liquid-mediated Pd
nanocatalysts and performed the physiochemical analysis of the developed Pd-based nanocatalysts using
a transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-Ray diffraction analysis (XRD), X-ray photoelectron
spectroscopy (XPS), and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) analysis. The well-dispersed and
fine Pd nanoparticles were recorded in the ILPdNPs-4 catalytic system. We used this catalytic system
to reduce a series of aliphatic and aromatic compounds with nitro groups and developed various biologically
active amine molecules. In the continuation of the same, we also reduced nitrolactone, which
is considered one of the important starting materials for the synthesis of renin inhibitor aliskiren
(Tekturna®, and worldwide as Rasilez®). We also completed the catalyst stability test and recycled the
ILPdNPs-4 catalytic system for up to eight runs. No sign of metal leaching, Pd black formation, and
agglomeration was recorded during recycling runs.
Determination of Heavy Metal Contents in some Medicinal Plants from
The Region of Oran from Algeria
Authors: Mokred Mohamed Rabie , Talbi Mohamed , Bouzidi Nadia Kambouche , Berrabah Ahlem , Benzine Salima Bellahouel
Published: June 2023

Background:

Some heavy metals found in our environment are toxic; once absorbed by
plants, they build up in tissues and are phased out. Other heavy metals are trace elements needed for
human health, but they can be toxic in excess concentrations.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is both to confirm the necessary metals' recognized medicinal
virtues and to raise awareness of the presence of harmful non-essential metals that could harm humans
and the environment.

Methods:

This study depicts a profile of existence of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Fe) in some
important herbal plants used in some parts of the country as a food condiment like (Moringa oleifera,
Artemesia campestis, Nigella sativa, Asparagus stipularis, Sesamum indicum, Ruta montana,
Rhamnus alaternus, Pistacia lentiscus using atomic absorption spectrophotometer.

Results:

The heavy metals in these medicinal plants were in the range of 0.38-0.56ppm of Zn, 0.00-
0.69 ppm of Cu, 0.13-0.16 ppm of Cd, 0.26-0.52 ppm of Pb, 1.10-8.89 ppm of Fe. Of the eight medicinal
plants/products examined, the prescribed limits were respected.
For each plant, a test sample of 2 grams of powder is mineralized. Each mineral is analyzed by injection.
For each element, a calibration curve is generated. Assay with atomic absorption devices
(lead, copper, cadmium, nickel, manganese) is carried out. The results are expressed in mg/L for
different species. The highest value is lead. Copper content is present in various extracts and is considered
a good source.

Conclusion:

The obtained results are promising for human health. The zinc contained in Moringa is
very valuable. The presence of iron in the species Rhamnus alaternus confirms its use in traditional
medicine as an anti-anemic.
A Comprehensive Review on the Role of Chemotype Marine Derived-Drug
Discovery
Authors: Rajakumar Santhosh , S.V. Ramprasadh , D. Susha , Sharma Sameer
Published: June 2023

The global population's rapid expansion is a worldwide concern, which has led to higher
medication and resource consumption. As a result, there is a tremendous need to seek out new
means of producing reliable medications to meet the rising demand of a global populace suffering
from a wide range of health problems. Various resources are available in marine habitats for the
development of novel medications. Their life circumstances are radically different from those found
in a terrestrial setting. In order for marine animals to thrive in the ocean, they produce a variety of
secondary metabolites, which can possibly be life-saving bioactive compounds that come from an
increasing variety of marine microorganisms. These metabolites have pharmacological properties
that make them intriguing as a potential for human medications. Therefore, there has recently been
a rise in interest in marine-derived biomolecules as potential treatments. Utilizing a wide range of
screening methods, we can investigate the effects of these extracts and purified compounds from
marine organisms in the medicinal industry, such as cancer prevention, inflammation reduction,
virus and bacteria inhibition, ion channel/receptor modulation, and plant growth stimulation. The
structures of bioactive substances will be determined after they have been isolated chromatographically.
Marine-based bioactive compounds can be (semi) synthesized to make new derivatives,
structural analogues, and copies that can be used to build new marine-based chemical catalogs and
contribute as lead or hit molecules. This overview classifies FDA-approved marine-based drugs and
provides information on their origins, chemical composition, manufacturing processes, and pharmacology.
This paper outlines the supply dilemma in marine medicine development.
Experimental Study on NRF2 Mediated by Chinese Medicine Tangzhiqing to Reduce Autophagy-dependent Ferroptosis and Alleviate Neuron Damage in HT22 Mice with Diabetes-related Cognitive Disorder
Authors: Wang Xu , Qiu Lingyan , Chen Kai , Zhao Yun
Published: June 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Diabetes is a chronic condition defined by the body’s inability to process glucose. The most common form of diabetes, type 2 diabetes mellitus, reflects the body’s insulin resistance, which leads to long-term raised glucose blood levels. These levels can cause oxidative damage, cell stress, and excessive autophagy throughout the body, including the nervous system. Diabetes-related cognitive impairment (DCI) results from chronic elevation of blood glucose, and as diabetes cases continue to rise, so do comorbidities, such as DCI. Although there are medications to address high blood glucose, there are few that can inhibit excessive autophagy and cell death.

METHOD:

We investigated if the Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangzhiqing (TZQ), can reduce the impact of DCI in a high-glucose cell model. We used commercially available kits to evaluate cell viability, mitochondrial activity, and oxidative stress

RESULT:

We found that TZQ treatment increased cell viability, ensured continued mitochondrial activity, and reduced reactive oxygen species. We also found that TZQ functions by increasing NRF2 activity, which decreases the ferroptosis-associated pathways that involve p62, HO-1, and GPX4.

CONCLUSION:

TZQ should be further investigated for its role in reducing DCI.
A Survey of Women giving Birth regarding Respect for the Human Dignity of the Mother and the Newborn
Authors: Raesi Rasoul , Saghari Sam , Tabatabaee Seyed Saeed , Mirzaei Sepideh , Hushmandi Kiavash
Published: June 2023

Background:

This study aimed to determine the current status of respect for the human dignity of mothers and newborn from the perspective of women who have given birth.

Providing health services with respect for the human dignity of the mother and the newborn can boost the mother's self-esteem, encourage her to become pregnant in the future, and may also strengthen her confidence in the medical system.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out through a census of 384 women who gave birth in Khaf's 22nd Bahman Hospital, eastern Iran, in 2022. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used to collect data, which were then analyzed in SPSS-22 using one-sample t and multiple linear regression. The significance level was established at p <0.05.

Results:

Communication with respect (2.98 ± 0.53) and respect for individual autonomy (2.94 ± 0.54) ranked highest and lowest, respectively, among the components of respect for the mother and newborn's human dignity. From the perspective of women who had given birth, respect for the human dignity of the mother and newborn in general, as well as the components of respect for personal privacy and communication with respect, were at a moderate level, whereas respect for individual autonomy was below average.

Conclusion:

The below-average score of the component of respect for individual autonomy and, finally the average level of respect for the human dignity of the mother and newborn necessitates that managers prioritize promoting these concepts in the provision of health services through practical programs.
Investigating the Reasons for the Unwillingness to Get Vaccinated against COVID-19 in the General Population
Authors: Hushmandi Kiavash , Tabatabaee Seyed Saeed , Saghari Sam , Zandieh Mohammad Arad , Raesi Rasoul
Published: June 2023

Aim:

This study sought to identify barriers to COVID-19 vaccination uptake among the general population in Khaf, eastern Iran.

Background:

The sudden emergence of COVID-19 reaffirmed that prevention is preferable to treatment. It is difficult to achieve the goal of widespread COVID-19 vaccination if the general population is reluctant to be vaccinated against it.

Methods:

This study is a cross-sectional analysis of 412 individuals over the age of 18 who were selected via convenience sampling from the general population in 2022. A researcher-made questionnaire was utilized to collect information regarding COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy from the target population over the phone. The questionnaire covered three domains: personal reasons, concerns about the vaccine, and concerns about the Ministry of Health's performance. The collected data were analyzed with SPSS version 22 statistical software using one-sample t-test and multiple linear regression. The level of significance was established at p <0.05.

Results:

This study examined 133 females and 279 males. The highest mean score of COVID-19 vaccination reluctance was associated with the performance of the Ministry of Health (3.77 ± 0.79) and the lowest with personal reasons (2.51 ± 0.57).

Conclusion:

COVID-19 vaccination reluctance was associated more with the performance of the Ministry of Health and the nature of the COVID-19 vaccine. Hence, the Ministry of Health must intervene directly to ensure the success of public vaccination by informing people about the vaccine and alleviating mistrust in society.
Why Thermodynamic Entropy and Statistical Entropy are Two
Different Physical Quantities
Authors: Paglietti Andreas
Published: June 2023

Background:

Historically, the coincidence of classical thermodynamic entropy
and statistical entropy is based on an assumption (the so-called Boltzmann-Planck relation).
The study shows that the Boltzmann-Planck relation is not valid in general.

Aims:

The study demonstrates that thermodynamic entropy is a physical entity distinct
from statistical entropy.

Methods:

Initially, the entropy of ideal gases is examined and demonstrated to be independent
of the gas volume. The ideal gas's true entropy is then expressed correctly.

Results:

The Boltzmann-Planck entropy equation is demonstrated to be incapable of describing
the thermodynamic entropy of ideal gases.

Conclusion:

In general, the Boltzmann-Planck entropy cannot be considered a statistical
interpretation of the thermodynamic entropy. The two entropies represent two different
physical quantities. The physical quantity that enters the second law of thermodynamics is
the thermodynamic entropy, not the statistical entropy.

6:

The study advocates for a fundamental rethinking of today's statistical understanding of
thermodynamics.
In-vitro Safety Assessment of Ultrasmall Gold Nanoparticles for Preclinical Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Naz Farhat , Kumar Arun , Prabhakar Pankaj , Lale Shantanu
Published: June 2023

Background:

The development of safe and biocompatible nanoparticles has always been a major concern in nanomedicine applications. Various studies on the size-dependent toxicity of na-noparticles have been reported but are still controversial. The potential of small-sized nanoparticles can be utilized for imaging and diagnostics. However, insufficient toxicity data on these nanoparti-cles prevents researchers from utilizing their potential in diagnostics. More studies are needed on the toxicity of small-sized nanoparticles to present unanimous report for safe systemic use. The pre-sent study aimed to investigate the toxicity concerns of very small-sized AuNPs (2 ± 0.5 nm, 5 ± 1 nm, and 10 ± 2 nm) and provide a platform for their safe in vivo use.

Methods:

The cellular interactions of these three small-sized AuNPs with regard to cytotoxicity were investigated on hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and epithelial kidney (HEK-293) cell lines. The cytotoxicity investigation of both cell lines was done through MTT assays, PI & DAPI, and cy-tology. Cellular stress was investigated by Catalase, TBARS, GSH, SOD & ROS parameters. The AuNPs incubated cells were also assessed for immunogenicity by ELISA, protein interaction by BSA, and cellular internalization by TEM (Edax).

Results:

All three-sized AuNPs were not toxic on cell viability, apoptosis, necrosis, or cytology as-sessment. No oxidative stress was noted in both cell types in the presence of 2 and 5-nm-sized AuNPs, whereas 10 nm-sized AuNPs showed little oxidative stress. AuNPs of size 2 and 5 nm were immunologically inert, but 10 nm-sized AuNPs elicited interleukin (IL-4 and IL-10) and interferon IFN gamma response. AuNPs of sized 2 nm showed 4 times the adsorption of albumin protein as compared to AuNPs of sized 5 nm. The TEM micrographs and peak of gold in the Edax graph con-firmed the presence of AuNPs in cells.

Conclusion:

Our results are suggestive of utilizing the potential of these three-sized AuNPs safely in preclinical drug delivery applications.
Development of Surface Modified and Aqueous Re-dispersible Nanocrystal
using Pluronic F-68 and Suitable Cryoprotectant for Accelerating the
Dissolution Rate of Cilnidipine
Authors: Agarwal Vijay , Kaushik Nitin , Goel Surya
Published: June 2023

Background:

The research on poorly aqueous-soluble drugs of BCS class II such as Cilnidipine
(CLD) demands significant improvement in their aqueous solubility and dissolution rate. Such
requirements may be fulfilled by adapting the nanocrystal approach with considering the various challenges.

Objective:

The prime purpose of this research work was to develop, optimize and characterize the nanocrystal
of the poorly aqueous soluble drug (CLD) using the antisolvent-precipitation ultrasonication
method. Such a method was followed for rapid re-dispersion of drugs in water with improving their dissolution
rate.

Methods:

In this study, the different nanosuspension formulations were prepared using varying concentrations
of three stabilizers - Pluronic F-68, Pluronic F-127, and HPMC-15cps, as selected stabilizer candidates.
The selected and optimized formulation was followed by a lyophilization process with the incorporation
of two selected distinct cryoprotectants - Mannitol and Lactose. The obtained nanocrystals were
evaluated for their physical appearance, aqueous re-dispersibility, and particle size. Additionally, the optimized
nanoformulation was also evaluated for morphology, dissolution rate, assay, drug entrapment
efficiency, and drug loading content. The in vitro dissolution of optimized drug nanocrystal was done in
the phosphate buffer solution of pH 6.8 and compared with bulk CLD and a physical mixture of CLD and
pluronic F-68.

Results:

For optimizing drug nanosuspension, the effect of pluronic F-68 and cilnidipine concentration
was investigated, and the optimal values were 0.3% w/v and 5 mg/ml, respectively. Mannitol-containing
nanocrystals exhibited a white crystalline powder having a particle size of 154 nm and a good polydispersity
index (0.217). Nanocrystals also demonstrated an excellent re-dispersibility in deionized water after
manual shaking and no particles were observed at the bottom of the container till 15 days. Such optimized
formulation also indicated an increase in dissolution rate in comparison to bulk CLD and their physical
mixture with pluronic F-68. It released approximately 72.25% of the drug within 90 minutes while bulk
CLD and physical mixture released only 31.24% and 30.37% of the drug, respectively at the same time.
The drug assay method indicated that only 92% of the drug was present in optimized nanocrystals after the
transformation of nanosuspension into nanocrystals which was less than the initial amount. In this research,
the experimental work also analyzed that optimized nanocrystal has only 28.6% of drug loading content.

Conclusion:

The selected method and cryoprotectant have ability to develop the aqueous re-dispersible
nanocrystal for enhancing the dissolution rate and water solubility of CLD-like poorly soluble drugs.