bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal nursing care is essential! Breastfeeding: focus on maternal health
Authors: Zakharova I. N. , Kuchina A. E. , Kholodova I. N. , Pupykina V. V.
Published: November 2023

This article deals with the importance and necessity of breastfeeding for both mother and baby. The timeliness of this topic has been brought about by technological advances, which imposes its own rules and offers alternatives in which it seems much easier to neglect the main maternal responsibility – the role of the breastfeeding mother. One gets the feeling that scientific research into breast milk is limited to finding evidence of the benefits of breastfeeding to convince novice mothers to breastfeed. The article mentions the evolutionary significance of breastfeeding, explains the reasons for the mammary glands “suffering” if the only “evolutionarily assigned” function for this female organ is not implemented, which makes us look at the need for natural breastfeeding from a different angle. Evidence of the need for breastfeeding to prevent the development of breast cancer that has high mortality rates in the female population is presented. At the same time, the issue of malignant tumours is not limited only to the mammary glands. The role of the breast milk microbiota disorders in the formation of the above processes is discussed. The preventive role of breastfeeding in the development of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular and endocrine diseases in women has been shown. The article presents data on this issue from numerous clinical studies, reviews and meta-analyses. The emphasis was placed on the prenatal discussions with pregnant women about the importance and necessity of breastfeeding, which should be carried out at the stage of preparing women for childbirth. The question has been raised about the role of the local paediatrician in the prenatal nursing care for women. It explains why “early” acquaintance with the mother is far from being an additional needless burden for the local paediatrician, as it might seem at first glance, but rather, on the contrary, additional opportunities.
Acute sore throat in frequently ill children: potential of topical therapy
Authors: Kirichenko I. M. , Popadyuk V. I. , Kozlova N. S. , Chernolev A. I.
Published: November 2023

Sore throat is the most common reason for visiting primary care doctors, pediatricians, and ENT doctors. Acute sore throat, as a rule, is not an independent disease and most often accompanies tonsillopharyngitis caused by respiratory viral infections. In childhood, the share of acute respiratory viral infections among other infectious diseases can reach up to 90%, and the proportion of frequently ill children ranges from 30 to 50%. A feature of frequently ill children is a high incidence of illness, regardless of seasonality, and a tendency to a protracted course of the inflammatory process. Uncontrolled systemic antibiotic therapy for acute sore throat in frequently ill children leads to the development of dysbacteriosis and a decrease in mucosal immunity. The use of the topical antibacterial drug Faringazon for sore throat in children reduces inflammation in both viral and bacterial infections and reduces the need for systemic antibiotic therapy. The active substance of Ambazon has a bacteriostatic effect when is kept in the mouth until it resorbs and is effective against Streptococcus haemolyticus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus viridans, and also has antifungal effects against Candida albicans yeast fungus, which is a saprophyte, but exhibits pathogenic properties in decreased body’s immune defence and dysbiosis. The use of topical antimicrobial therapy helps reduce inflammation and speed up the recovery of patients without prescription of systemic antibiotics, and also ensures the preservation of microbiome, reducing the probability of emergence of antibiotic resistant strains to the minimum.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and the risk of malignant tumors
Authors: Livzan M. A. , Syrovenko M. I. , Krolevets T. S.
Published: November 2023

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease  (NAFLD) and metabolic  associated liver disease  (MAFLD) is growing world-wide. A new terminology  (MAFLD) allows us not only to focus on the “metabolic” genesis  of this pathology, but also to take into account  other  factors  affecting  damage  to hepatocytes, such as alcohol  consumption in low doses, viral and toxic hepatitis. Currently, obesity is a pathology, that is growing with MAFLD and causes  of various non-communicable diseases. Most deaths in patients with  NAFLD/MAFLD  are  caused,  firstly, by adverse  cardiovascular  events,  secondly, by malignant tumors  of both the digestive  organs  (liver, intestine, esophagus, stomach  and pancreas)  and other  localizations (kidney cancer  in men, breast cancer  in women) and, thirdly, by development of hepatic  complications (cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma  – HCC). Because of the  pandemic  growth  of MAFLD and its association with cardiovascular  diseases  and obesity, the  question about  properly clinical management of patients suffered from comorbid pathology to reduce the risks of deaths  is timely and very relevant. This review has been prepared to systematize the available  literature dates  about association of NAFLD/MAFLD with the malignant tumors. A literature searches were  conducted,  modern  epidemiological dates  about  the  prevalence of NAFLD/MAFLD  in the population and their complicated forms were presented. The risk of HCC formation  both with and without  cirrhosis in NAFLD was assessed.  It was found that  the severity of liver fibrosis can be useful predictor  of the future risk of not only the adverse cardiovascular  events,  but  also  the  malignant tumors  in patients with  NAFLD/MAFLD. Possible  targets  for treatment were discussed,  the  impact  on which is useful  for the  treatment and prevention of progressive  forms of the  disease.  One of the possible  therapeutic molecules is essential phospholipids, which are  currently  included  in the  consent  documents for the managment of patients with NAFLD.
Whole grain products in children nutrition
Authors: Pyrieva E. A. , Safronova A. I. , Georgieva О. V.
Published: November 2023

The article discusses the problems of using products containing whole grains in the nutrition of young children. Among the most controversial are the issues of the optimal quantity and timing of inclusion of the whole grain component in baby food. The results of studies are presented confirming the effectiveness of including whole grains in children’s diets, as well as the level of their consumption in the world, demonstrating significant national differences (from 2 to 58 g per day). In general, despite the obvious benefits of whole grains, actual consumption of whole grains by children is not enough to realize their health potential. As one of the ways to solve the problem, the early inclusion of whole grains in the diet, starting from the first year of life, is considered. Aspects that limit the use of whole grains in nutrition are noted inconsistency in the identification of whole grain products and their sanitary and hygienic safety. Currently, both 30 and 50% have been proposed as the level of whole grain content in a product that allows it to be classified as whole grain. The issue of safety is especially relevant for baby food, since the outer layers of grains can concentrate contaminants (heavy metals, mycotoxins, arsenic, pesticides). It has been established that the arsenic content in whole rice products is higher than in refined analogues. In this regard, specialized baby food products have advantages for organizing nutrition for young children, the production of which involves special approaches to the selection of whole grain raw materials and technological processing modes to ensure the requirements for its quality and safety. Domestic and foreign documents regulating the requirements for safety indicators for specialized grain-based products for baby food are presented.
Sarcopenia and malnutrition in patients with liver diseases
Authors: Ostrovskaya A. S. , Maevskaya M. V.
Published: November 2023

This review focuses on the most current  information  on the pathogenesis, diagnosis  and treatment of sarcopenia and malnutrition in patients with liver disease. Sarcopenia  and malnutrition are common complications of liver diseases. Liver cirrhosis, as a stage  of the pathological process, serves as the main predisposing factor for the development of malnutrition and sarcopenia. The frequency  of sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis  is 30–50%  and  reaches  100% in decompensated patients. The main pathogenetic links are: impaired  proteostasis of skeletal  muscles, systemic  inflammation and changes  in gut microbiota. In recent   years, enough   data  have  been  accumulated  to  consider  these   conditions   as  a  prognostically unfavorable   factor in patients with liver cirrhosis of various etiologies,  affecting  their quality of life and survival, as well as worsening  the out-comes  of transplantation. This dictates  the  necessity  to  define  unified  approaches to  diagnostics and  correction  of these conditions. Currently, tests are used for diagnosis, which allow to assess muscle strength and function. Muscle mass is assessed using instrumental methods by measuring  individual  muscles  and calculating skeletal  muscle  indices. In patients with liver cirrhosis and concomitant sarcopenia and malnutrition, nutritional and lifestyle modification  strategies are applicable for correction  in addition  to therapy  aimed at elimination of the etiologic  factor. The aim of the review is to evaluate the problems of diagnosis and effective treatment of malnutrition and sarcopenia in patients with liver disease  based on literature data. The article presents an overview of the main strategies for the approach, diagnosis  and correction  of these  conditions.
Approaches to the treatment of bronchial asthma in children: leukotriene receptor antagonists
Authors: Kolosova N. G. , Denisova V. D.
Published: November 2023

Asthma is a common heterogeneous disease, which often starts at a young age and has a reversible airway obstruction as its hallmark. Phenotypic differences in children with asthma may influence concomitant diseases and treatment choices. Despite the availability of effective drugs, asthma is poorly controlled in many children, which gives doctors the power to increasingly customize therapy from a personalized medicine perspective. The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) 2023 preserves and develops the agebased approach to diagnosis verification and therapy choice, which is supported in the All-Russia national program: Bronchial Asthma in Children and in the national clinical guidelines on bronchial asthma. Three age groups of patients were identified: zero to five years, six to eleven years and 12 years and older. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (in particular, montelukast) are often used in paediatric practice in children with asthma. The current guidelines show that leukotriene receptor antagonists (montelukast) are an alternative to inhaled glucocorticoids in mild, intermittent and persistent asthma. This is the first mediator-specific therapy for bronchial asthma. The best strategy in prescribing this group of drugs is to assess the severity of asthma, age and presence of concomitant diseases in children. The article uses clinical examples to discuss approaches to the asthma treatment with montelukast. The lack of asthma control tools results in high morbidity, mortality and costs of treatment, which justifies the search for new therapeutic options to improve control and reduce the risk of future exacerbations.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in the practice of an otorhinolaryngologist: Clinical observation and literature review
Authors: Starostina S. V. , Svistushkin V. M. , Avetisyan E. Ye. , Shadyev T. H. , Kochetkov P. A.
Published: November 2023

The presented own clinical observation showed that functional dysphonia can be one of the clinical manifestations of EhlersDanlo syndrome: it is the deep layer of the own plate of the vocal fold, containing a large amount of collagen, that is most susceptible to changes in this pathology. The patient of the vocal voice for many years: a picture of hypotonic dysphonia was revealed during video pharyngostroboscopy – gaping of the laryngeal ventricles, non-closure of the vocal folds throughout by 1.5–2 mm. Acoustic analysis of the voice showed a decrease and instability in the amplitude of the pitch frequency, a narrowing of the dynamic range, a decrease in the intensity of the voice in the area of individual tones of the transient register, an increase in the level of noise components in the spectrum. The patient underwent a course of neuromuscular electrophonopedic stimulation No. 12 in combination with taking B vitamins for three weeks; after that, an increase in voice endurance was subjectively noted, however, according to the results of phonetography, spectrography and videolaryngostroboscopy, no visible positive dynamics was noted. The rheumatologist revealed hyperextension and increased traumatism of the skin, increased folding of the palms and flat feet. DNA sequencing revealed mutations in the genes and confirmed the diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlo syndrome.
Pharmacogenetic markers of toxicity of FOLFOX/XELOX chemotherapy in patients with gastrointestinal tumors: a prospective observational study
Authors: Fedorinov D. S. , Lyadov V. K. , Abdullayev Sh. P. , Kachanova A. A. , Heydarov R. N. , Shashkov I. A. , Mikhailovich V. M. , Surzhikov S. A. , Lyadova M. A. , Sychev I. V. , Galkin V. N. , Poddubnaya I. V. , Sychev D. A.
Published: November 2023

Introdiction.   Systemic  chemotherapy  (CT)  based   on  oxaliplatin,   5-fluorouracil,  capecitabine  is  the   standard  of  treatment for advanced  gastric, colorectal  and rectal cancer, which is characterized by frequent  development of severe adverse  events  (AEs). The results of translational studies in the Russian patient  population are limited, it is necessary to study pharmacogenetic markers. Aim. To study the frequency of carrying allelic variants  of DPYD, GSTP1, MTHFR, XPC, ERCC1, TYMS genes  and their association with the development of AEs during palliative  treatment with FOLFOX/XELOX.

Materials and methods.  A total  of 166  patients (67 gastric  cancer, 99 colorectal  cancer)  were  included  in the  prospective observational study. All patients underwent pharmacogenetic testing  by hybridization  analysis  on  biological  microarrays (DPYD (rs2297595  and rs75017182), MTHFR (rs1801133), XPC (rs2228001), TYMS (rs11280056), ERCC1 (rs3212986)) and PCR (GSTP1 (rs1695), ERCC1 (rs11615)) before  starting  CT. The genotype  frequency distribution was analyzed  between the groups of patients with and without  the development of severe AEs.

Results. AEs developed in 97.7% of patients, severe  AEs accounting for 54.2%. According to the results  of univariate  analysis, TC genotype  of DPYD gene  rs2297595  OR = 3.0 (95% CI 1.2–7.3, p = 0.025), GG genotype  of GSTP1 gene  rs1695  OR = 2.9 (95%   CI 1.02–8.6,  p = 0.038) were  associated with  the  development of severe  neutropenia. In multivariate analysis  TT genotype   rs2297595   of the  DPYD gene  remained   the  only predictor  of severe  neutropenia (B ± SE = -1.103  ± 0.503; DI [-2.090; -0.116]; p = 0.028).

Conclusions. The results  of this study allowed  us to identify possible  markers of toxicity of FOLFOX/XELOX chemotherapy.
Features of the fatty acid profile of erythrocyte membranes in patients with fatty liver disease of alcoholic genesis
Authors: Kruchinina M. V. , Parulikova M. V. , Belkovets A. V. , Nikolaev K. Yu. , Ovsyannikova A. K.
Published: November 2023

Introduction.  Alcoholic steatosis, which is a reversible  condition, is currently considered a significant  risk factor for the  progression  of diffuse liver pathology, therefore understanding of its mechanisms at the molecular  level is essential.

Aim. To study the features  of the fatty acid profile of erythrocyte  membranes in patients with fatty liver disease  of alcoholic origin for possible  use of fatty acids (FAs) as biomarkers  and potential therapeutic targets.

Materials and methods. A total of 31 men with alcoholic fatty liver disease  (AFLD) (average age of 45.1 ± 17.1 years) and 28 men of comparable age without AFLD and symptomatic  pathology of internal  organs were examined. The FA composition  and levels of erythrocyte  membranes (ER) were studied  using Agilent 7000B (USA) triple quadrupole gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

Results and discussion.  A  higher  level  of a  range  of saturated FAs (lauric, margaric,  pentadecane), monounsaturated  FAs (MUFAs), which are additional factors for the progression of AFLD (palmitoleic, total monounsaturated acids), n-6/n-3  polyun-saturated FAs  ratio (PUFAs), alpha-linolenic FA was detected in patients with AFL vs the  control  group (p = 0.00002–0.05). In contrast,  the  levels  of arachidic  and docosahexaenoic acids, total  eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic n-3 PUFAs, and total  n-3 PUFAs were lower in patients with AFLD than  in healthy  men (p = 0.003–0.01), which is associated with increased ethanol induced  adipose  tissue  lipolysis  via PDE3B-AMPK axis. The use  of FAs panel  (C16:1;9, sum  MUFA, n-6/n-3  PUFA, C22:6n3, C20:0) to distinguish  patients with AFLD from healthy  ones  ensured  high levels  of sensitivity (79%), and specificity (81%) (AUC 0.808). Multidirectional  associations of FA levels  in erythrocyte  membranes with each  other  and liver tests  and lipid profile results  were revealed.

Conclusion. Thus, the features  of erythrocytes  membrane FAs in patients with AFLD and the potential to use them as biomarkers for differentiation of people  with AFLD from healthy individuals have been  identified.
Characteristics of nutritional status in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Tishkina S. V. , Shemenkova V. S. , Konstantinova E. V.
Published: November 2023

Chronic kidney disease  is kidney damage  that persists  for three  months  or more due to the action of various etiological  factors, the anatomical basis of which is the process  of replacement of normal anatomical structures with fibrosis, leading  to its dysfunction. This nosology is quite common in the modern world; it can progress  and lead to disability of patients and a decrease in their  quality of life. The mortality  rate  for this disease  also remains  high. About 3/4  of patients with this pathology  have a terminal  stage  of the process, which is characterized by the development of protein-energy deficiency (due to uremia, malnutrition, acidosis and persistent inflammatory  process), which significantly worsens  the prognosis. Currently, the available  literature  contains  a small number  of works devoted  to this problem, therefore an important part of the  management of patients with chronic kidney disease  (especially  those  on hemodialysis)  is the  assessment and correction  of nutritional status. In this article, the authors  highlight  aspects  of the development of protein-energy malnutrition, its possible  methods of diagnosis and correction. Electrolyte disturbances, especially hyperkalemia  and hyperphosphatemia, are also common complications of chronic kidney disease.  Correction  of these  conditions,  in turn, can  lead  to the  development of deficiency  of vitamins  and  other microelements. According to studies presented in the literature, nutritional status  is one of the main factors determining the survival and degree  of rehabilitation of patients on renal replacement therapy, as well as the effectiveness of dialysis treatment. Thus, a clinician’s knowledge  of the nutritional status  of this group of patients can improve their prognosis  and quality of life.
Políticas públicas sobre envejecimiento y vejez: los casos de Uruguay y Colombia
Authors: Londoño-Moreno Angélica María , Lladó-Olivera Mónica Sandra , Díaz-Bambula Fátima , Rentería-Pérez Erico , Wittke-Tallar Tommy
Published: November 2023

Las políticas públicas son acciones y narrativas que, por un lado, son instrumentos para el cumplimiento de los derechos, pero por el otro, prácticas sociales y discursivas que construyen posicionamientos y sentidos frente a los fenómenos y sujetos de interés. Este artículo tiene como objetivo presentar el análisis documental de la Política Pública Colombiana y el Segundo Plan Uruguayo sobre el Envejecimiento y Vejez. Se logró identificar una coexistencia de paradigmas en transición, que median la construcción social del envejecimiento y la vejez, así como también de los actores involucrados en el mismo, en donde el actor principal “las personas mayores” tiene un rol activo de participación, a pesar de lo anterior, se mantienen ideas de individualización de los problemas en el carácter “activo” y “productivo”, que sigue generando homogeneización en las formas de envejecer, que limita los modos posibles de vida.
El acceso a la justicia civil en Chile desde el análisis económico del derecho
Authors: Carrasco Delgado Nicolás Ignacio Ariel
Published: November 2023

Se ha sostenido que el sistema procesal civil de Chile presenta problemas de acceso a la justicia. Esa discusión ha sido planteada en el marco de la reforma procesal civil. Sin embargo, los estudios cuantitativos que se han elaborado permiten desestimar esas conclusiones. Las razones por las cuales no demandan las personas que tienen necesidades jurídicas no necesariamente se debe a problemas de acceso. Para enfrentar esta discusión se propone examinar los problemas de acceso desde una perspectiva de eficiencia, mirada que en Chile no ha sido mayormente considerada en la discusión del problema.
Influence of mixing conditions on coagulant recovery efficiency and quality
Authors: Ramos da Silva Bruno Moreno , Bastos Rafael Kopschitz Xavier , Godinho Thiago José Dias
Published: November 2023

In this work, the influence of mixing conditions on aluminium recovery from alum sludge and on the recovered coagulant (RC) quality was investigated using acidic treatment. The response surface methodology with a Face Centred Design was used to evaluate the effects of velocity gradient and mixing time on aluminium recovery efficiency, and on the chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS) and total phosphorus contents of the RC. No significant effects of both mixing intensity and mixing time on aluminium recovery efficiency were observed; however, these factors significantly affected the quality of the RC in terms of COD, TSS and total phosphorus. The higher velocity gradient increased COD and TSS and the longer mixing time increased phosphorus and TSS in the RC. Operational conditions velocity gradient = 100 s−1 and mixing time = 5 minutes) for aluminium recovery were suggested on economic basis. At these conditions, the RC presented the lowest values of TSS and total phosphorus (100 mg L−1 and 7.0 mg P L−1, respectively), and the following other characteristics: 1,001 mg Al L−1; 384 mg Fe L−1; 1100 mg COD L−1.
Respuestas ciudadanas a la extrema derecha en Twitter durante la “crisis fronteriza” de Ceuta (2021)
Authors: Olmos Alcaraz Antonia
Published: November 2023

En el artículo se analizan las lógicas de funcionamiento del discurso racista y del discurso antirracista en Twitter, a colación de unas declaraciones del líder del partido de extrema derecha Vox ante la seguridad fronteriza. Con una “crisis migratoria” como telón de fondo, acontecida en la frontera entre España y Marruecos en mayo de 2021, y a través de la observación sistemática de las conversaciones producidas en la citada red, por un lado, se profundiza en el análisis de las estrategias discursivas de apoyo al político racista y, por otro, de confrontación y rechazo al mismo. El trabajo, un estudio de caso realizado sobre una muestra de 766 publicaciones, concluye con un diagnóstico sobre las diferentes formas de reacción de la ciudadanía al respecto, como muestra de participación social/civil, al tiempo que destaca la preocupante normalización del discurso racista en redes sociales en el contexto estudiado.
Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester: A Potential Therapeutic Cancer Agent?
Authors: Bjørklund Geir , Storchylo Olha , Peana Massimiliano , Hangan Tony , Lysiuk Roman , Lenchyk Larysa , Koshovyi Oleh , Antonyak Halyna , Hudz Nataliia , Chirumbolo Salvatore
Published: November 2023

Background:

Propolis and its major phenolic compound, caffeic acid
phenethyl ester (CAPE), have garnered considerable scientific interest due to their anti-
inflammatory properties and potential therapeutic applications.

Objectives:

This narrative review explores the potential utility of CAPE in cancer treatment.

Methods:

We comprehensively reviewed relevant studies from scientific databases
(PubMed and Web of Science) from 2000 to 2022. Our search focused on keywords
such as cancer, natural drugs, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, CAPE, cancer cell lines, antitumor
effects, and propolis.

Results:

CAPE exhibits diverse biological benefits, including antimicrobial, antioxidant,
antiviral, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and potentially anti-carcinogenic properties. Numerous
studies have demonstrated its wide-ranging antitumor effects on various cancer
cell lines, including growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, tumor invasiveness prevention,
malignancy suppression, and anti-angiogenic activity.

Conclusion:

Following comprehensive preclinical toxicity assessments, further evaluation
of CAPE's efficacy and safety through clinical trials is highly recommended to elucidate
its potential health benefits in diverse forms of human cancer.
Enterococcal Infections: A Comparative Analysis between the Pandemic
and the Pre-pandemic Period
Authors: Sharad Neha , Srivastava Smriti , Kiro Vandana Vijayeta , Varma Sharin , Srivastav Sharad , Ningombam Aparna , Malhotra Rajesh , Mathur Purva
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, higher Enterococcus bloodstream infections (BSI) rates have been reported. To establish whether these infections actually increased, we
compared the incidence of Enterococcal infections before (September 2019 to February 2020) and
during the pandemic (April 2020 to March 2022).

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center converted into a COVID-19 facility. All clinical samples received in our laboratory during the
study period were included.

Results:

In the six months preceding the pandemic, 2,243 samples were positive for bacterial growth;
of the isolated organisms, 100 were Enterococcus species. During the pandemic, 39 out of 996 positive samples were Enterococcus. E. faecium was the most common isolate, 79/99 and 37/39. BSI was
the most common overall infection (554/996; 55.6%) compared to the period before it (287/2243;
12.79%). Enterococcus species accounted for 30 out of 554 (5.41%) BSI in COVID-19 patients and
21/287 in the period before it (7.31%). Ten out of 39 (25.64%) isolates were vancomycin-resistant
compared to the pre-COVID-19 period (9/21; 42.8%). There was an increase in antimicrobial resistance in the pandemic, except for linezolid and high-level aminoglycoside.

Conclusion:

Although we noted a higher percentage of BSIs, Enterococci were isolated from a lesser rate of COVID-19 patients from our center compared to pre-pandemic times. The plausible reasons for this could be the protective gut microbiota in the Indian population, and no increase in Enterococcus species in the environment of patients.
Phytoconstituents from Mother Nature against SARS-CoV-2/ COVID-19
Authors: Kumar Nema Neelesh , Devidas Khamborkar Swapnil , Sarojam Smitha , Kumaranthara Chacko Baby , Jacob Viju
Published: November 2023

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic disease due to the
infectious virus “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-CoronaVirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)”.
Scientifically validated phytoconstituents sourced from “Mother Nature” are now an
area of interest and targeted approach as a worldwide prophylactic measure against
SARS-CoV-2. This section focuses on providing a clear understanding of the structure
of SARS-CoV-2 as well as verified phytoconstituents from traditional medicine (TM)
for addressing the virus with all feasible targets. Target-specific inflammatory
pathways triggered by SARS post-infection include NLRP3, Metallopeptidase Domain
17, JAK-STAT, p38-MAPK, endocytosis pathways e.g. Clathrin, HMGB1 as well as
associated interleukins and cytokines are primarily highlighted, which directly or
indirectly trigger the immune system and play a significant role. Selected Indian
medicinal herbs and their possible leads are detailed below, with the goal of focusing
on specific routes with a high likelihood of preventing pandemics in the future.
Plant Sources of Pro and Anti-Inflammatory Mediators against COVID-19
Authors: Yasmin Iqra , Khan Wahab A. , Manzoor Ayesha , Iqbal Muhammad W. , Azam Muhammad
Published: November 2023

The first and the most vital biotic response of the immune system against
stress, oxidation, infection, injury and irritation is inflammation. Reports revealed that
the anti-inflammatory effect is mediated by various inflammatory cytokines and non-cytokine mediators i.e. tumor necrosis factor alpha-a, nitric oxide, interleukins,
interferon gamma-g, and prostaglandin E2
respectively. Herbal medicine is playing an
important role in the treatment of COVID-19. Plant-based foods are rich source of
bioactive compounds (phytochemicals) and have a potential anti-inflammatory effect.
The purpose of this chapter is to sum up the recent findings of work already done both
in vitro and in vivo on the anti-inflammatory effects of plant-based foods. As a source
of natural modulators of gene expressions, phytochemicals from plants could be used
along with other pharmaceutical formulations as anti-inflammatory drugs. Therefore,
the regulation of inflammation by modulating the pro-inflammation and anti-inflammation cytokine expression through different plant-based food also boosts
immunity. 
Medicinal Spices for the Prevention and Treatment of Coronavirus Disease-2019
Authors: Akram Muhammad , Anum Rabia , Elbossaty Walaa Fikry , Egbuna Chukwuebuka , Godswill Awuchi Chinaza , Zedech Uche Chukwuemelie , Patrick-Iwuanyanwu Kingsley C. , Bhattacharya Soumya , Rudrapal Mithun
Published: November 2023

By the end of 2019, and by the year 2020, the COVID virus had spread, and in March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID 2019 an epidemic that invaded many Arab and foreign countries and claimed many lives. Since ancient times, medicinal plants have played an important role in treating many epidemic diseases. A Cochrane study confirmed that herbal plants have an effective role in treating respiratory epidemics such as SARS. In China, the National Health Committee explained the role of herbal plants in the treatment of COVID-19 in addition to Western treatment. Studies have shown that nutrition has an effective role in treating the virus, as foods rich in vitamin C are used to treat respiratory viruses. Plant food such as fenugreek, curcumin, cinnamon, and black pepper that are rich in bioactive compounds can be of help in treating COVID.
Functional Foods, Herbal Supplements and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Palai Santwana , Rudrapal Mithun
Published: November 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a unique disease caused by the
novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that has caused
mortalities throughout the world. This unique coronavirus is extremely contagious and
has no effective therapy or particular medications. It caused increased worldwide
mortality and lockdown. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has permitted the
use of COVID-19 vaccination in this emergency situation. However, there are concerns
regarding the new COVID-19 vaccine's safety, effectiveness, and long-term protection.
A deteriorated immune system is an eminent risk factor for viral influenza infections.
Many individuals all around the world are interested in herbal nutraceuticals to
preserve their health and strengthen their immune systems. The use of dietary
supplements, herbal medications, and foods with protective benefits, such as functional
foods, improves the immune system's ability to avoid and control pathogenic viral
infections. 
Biotic and Abiotic Components of Marine Ecosystem
Authors: Mahmoud Ali Elham
Published: November 2023

An aquatic ecosystem is a water-based environment. Aquatic ecosystems include the marine ecosystem and freshwater ecosystems. Two-thirds of the total surface area of the planet is covered by marine water. These ecosystems can be classified into two main categories; i) water/pelagic environment (including; neritic and oceanic zones) and; ii) bottom/benthic environment (including; supra-littoral, intertidal/littoral, and sublittoral zones). Biotic and abiotic factors mean all the living and non-living components of any ecosystem. Biotic factors also include the interactions between organisms and the way they live with or rely on each other. Abiotic factors include all the non-living components, which the living inhabitants rely on to live, grow and thrive. Factors affecting aquatic biomes greatly differ from one water body to the other as the water itself has different properties. Abiotic factors that influence aquatic biomes include light availability, depth, stratification, temperature, currents, and tides.
Potentiality of Marine Ecosystem Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Biswas Shreya , Ghosal Doyel , Das Tanusree , Basak Piyali
Published: November 2023

Of the several types of aquatic ecosystems, marine ecosystems are the
largest and are characterised by high salt concentrations. Therefore, aquatic flora, fauna
and microbes which are highly halophilic can be found here abundantly. Apart from
oceans and seas, there are various other types of marine habitats like salt marshes,
estuaries, intertidal areas, coral reefs, lagoons and mangroves . Bioactive compounds
are those chemicals produced typically in small quantities by plants, animals or
microbes for their own protection or functioning, but have beneficial effects on human
health. Since marine ecosystems are exceptionally rich in biodiversity, the prospect of
availability of the bountiful bioactive agents can easily be conjectured. Primary
producers like microalgae and phytoplanktons are rich sources of various pigments like
carotenoids, beta-carotene and polyunsaturated aldehyde. Sea-weeds are abundant in
vitamins A and C, and also in phenolic compounds, terpenes, etc. Primary consumers
like crustaceans and molluscs are reported to produce steroids having high medicinal
potential. Carnivorous fishes like herring, shad and mackerel are the secondary
consumers. Mackerel is a great source of the amino acid taurine, which is considered to
have beneficial effects on heart health. Top carnivorous fishes like the haddock or cod
belong to the category of tertiary consumers. Cod is popular for its “cod-liver oil”
which has high contents of vitamins A, D and E and omega-3-fatty acids whose health
benefits are familiar to all. Even the decomposers like marine bacteria and fungi are
effective manufacturers of alkaloids, terpenes, peptides and mixed biosynthetic
compounds derived from polyketides. Thus, it will not be an exaggeration to say that
the marine ecosystem has a plethora of bioactive compounds, and it can easily be
proclaimed that collective efforts in the form of copious research and documentation
are required to enable sustainable utilisation of this untapped bioresource. This review
is presented here as a small step to reach that goal. 
IoT Innovation in COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Genish T. , Vijayalakshmi S.
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic is a current global threat that surpasses provincial
and radical boundaries. Due to the onset of the pandemic disease, the whole world
turned entirely in a couple of weeks. Its consequences have come across the personal
and professional life of human beings. The current situation focuses on precautions
such as wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, and sanitizing hands regularly.
An innovative platform, and smart and effective IoT technology may be applied to
follow these steps. This platform fulfills all critical challenges at the time of lockdown
situations. IoT technology is more helpful in capturing real-time patient data and other
essential information. IoT allows the tracing of infected people and suspicious cases
and helps diagnose and treat patients remotely. It also paves the way to deliver essential
medical devices and medicines to quarantined places. In the present ongoing crisis, IoT
technology is inevitable in monitoring patients infected with COVID-19 through
sensors and intertwined networks. The consultations are given to the patients digitally
through video conferencing without meeting the medical expert in person. After the
diagnosis is made digitally, IoT devices are used to track health data. Smart
thermometers are used instead of traditional ones to collect valuable health data and
share it with experts. The IoT robots are now a proven technology used for cleaning
hospitals, disinfecting medical devices, and delivering medicines, thus giving more
time to healthcare workers to treat patients.
Biotic Stress and Breeding of Plants for Stress Resistance
Authors: Mangena Phetole , Adejumo Sifau A.
Published: November 2023

Among the different environmental challenges that affect crop production,
biotic stress factors are more devastating. They reduce crop yield and pose serious
threats to food security. Legumes constitute a large number of crop varieties that are
seriously affected by different biotic stress factors. To enhance their growth in the face
of these different stressful factors and preserve their useful genomic and functional
growth properties, leguminous crops are subjected to continuous genetic manipulations
for stress resistance. Successful breeding of stress-tolerant varieties for cultivation
under different farming systems may result in reduced crop losses and production costs,
limited use of agrochemicals, and eventual yield increases. Crops that are resistant to
biotic stress also exhibit better growth and yield characteristics. As established several
decades ago, the revolution in genomic research led to the development of many
sophisticated and advanced crop improvement techniques that can be applied across a
whole range of leguminous crop species such as cowpea, faba bean, lentil, mungbean,
pea, soybean, etc. However, interest in genetic engineering, chemically-or-physicaly-based mutation breeding, marker-assisted selection, quantitative trait loci and
genome editing (CRISPR-Cas) have expanded research beyond biotic stress resistance.
These techniques play a key role in applications such as the manufacturing of
bioenergy, and crop engineering for the expression of valuable bioactive compounds
and recombinant proteins. This chapter briefly reviews the diversity of biotic stress
factors (bacteria, fungi, insects, parasitic nematodes and viruses) and possible ways in
which these stress factors can be managed and eradicated using various breeding
methods. The review shows that the biotechnological tools mentioned above provide
beneficial functions in pest management through genetic, physiological and
morphological improvements, especially when coupled with other farming practices.
Detection of Knee Osteoarthritis using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Thongpat Pongphak , Pongsakonpruttikul Napat , Angthong Chayanin
Published: November 2023

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative joint disease that
results in disability due to joint dysfunction and pain. Almost one-fifth of early KOA
cases are missed during the routine practice resulting in the progression of the disease.
This narrative review aimed to explore and analyze various literatures that proposed
Convoluted Neural Network (CNN) model in detecting KOA and its severity based on
Kellgren Lawrence grading classification. At first, 221 publications were retrieved
using the search term “artificial intelligence” and Knee osteoarthritis”. Only studies
that used CNN and radiographic images were included in this study in which only 14
studies fitted our inclusion criteria. Each paper was thoroughly investigated for the
input data and CNN model adopted as well as the performance and limitation of that
study. Lastly, the conclusion was made and discussed using these results. Object
detection and Classification models were among the most popular techniques adopted.
Our results showed that object detection models were overall superior regarding the
accuracy in the detection of KOA and its severity. The application of CNN for the
detection of KOA from radiographic images has shown great promise where each
technique has its own advantage. In the foreseeable future, the combination of object
detection and classification detection may provide excellent potential as a merit tool to
help orthopedists and related physicians for the proper diagnosis and treatment of
KOA.
Vitamin D and Immune System: Implications in Bone Health
Authors: Bhardwaj Asha , Sharma Tamanna , Das Sneha , Sapra Leena , Srivastava Rupesh K.
Published: November 2023

Recent studies have identified the involvement of the immune system in
several bone complications like osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), periodontitis,
osteoarthritis, etc. Immune cells have an indispensable role in the regulation of bone
metabolism and explicitly influence the differentiation of bone cells by producing
various cytokines. Fortunately, recent research has examined different immune-based
therapeutics for the prevention of bone diseases in addition to revealing more
information about the interaction of the bone and the immune system. Vitamin D
maintains bone health by effectively absorbing calcium and thereby promoting bone
mineralization. In addition, vitamin D has great immunomodulatory potential and can
influence the effect of immune cells and cytokines on the pathogenesis of bone
deformities. Therefore, it is plausible to suggest that the detrimental effect of vitamin D
deficiency on bone is also linked to the immune system apart from its classic effect on
bone mineralization. However, very few studies have enlightened on this aspect of
vitamin D-mediated regulation of bone homeostasis which needs to be further
unraveled. In the present chapter, we have compiled recent studies highlighting the
effect of vitamin D on bone health via its effect on the host immune system. Further,
we have also highlighted the role of the immune system in the maintenance of skeletal
health and then have discussed the effect of vitamin D on various immune cells. In
addition, we have reviewed vitamin D-facilitated immune-based approaches for the
effective management of various bone pathologies such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis
and rheumatoid arthritis. This information will supposedly help in revealing further
mechanistic insights into the immunological regulation of bone health by vitamin D.
New site Power Transmitter Analysis of 4G LTE FDD 1800 MHz Using Cell Splitting Method
Authors: Yuhanef Afrizal - , Yusnita Sri , Wafi Rifki
Published: November 2023

The advancement of cellular telecommunications is growing day by day. Some theories, including 4G LTE FDD 1800 MHz, are becoming irrelevant to the current technology. The theory of power reduction by the cell splitting method is unsuitable for the actual condi-tions in the field. Theoretically, the cell splitting method is carried out on a new site with half of the main site's coverage, in which the transmitter power at the split site is reduced by 12 dB from the main site. This results in the power generated from the calculation be-ing small so that service coverage is limited. This study aimed to test the theory of trans-mitter power reduction in the cell splitting method (scenario 1) and compare it with other power reduction scenarios (Scenario 1: reduced by 15 dB, and Scenario 2: reduced by half from the main site power). The analysis is done by conducting simulations using Atoll RF Planning software. The study results revealed that in Scenario 3, the value of Key Perfor-mance Indicators is better than in other scenarios. The average throughput is 11045 kbps, the RSRP value is -108.58dBm, the range is 1.045 Km, and the average SINR is reduced to 8.52 dB. In addition, the data revealed that the coverage and signal quality of the site cell splitting is better when the transmitter power is 43 dBm (scenario 3). In conclusion, a site with higher transmitter power tends to have better signal strength, quality, and speed, as well as a wider coverage area. Reducing the transmitter cell splitting power will be more effective by reducing the new power site to half of the main site.
Using net games to stimulate the motor competence of elementary school students
Authors: Gustian Uray , Sastaman Putra , Nemeth Zsolt
Published: November 2023

Motor competence is essential to develop an active lifestyle, a healthy weight status, and a physical-activity habit. Motor competence stimulation focus on measuring the physical activity of playing games. The study investigated the potential improvement of motor skill by playing net games. Through the study, students are taught to make important decisions and acquire tactical knowledge by simplifying complex games. This research adopted an experimental design using One Group pretest-posttest method. Samples were collected through random sampling method in two classes of a selected elementary school. The Games Performance Assessment Instrument (GPAI) and the Gross Motor Development Test version 2 (TGMD-2) were used to assess students' playing understanding, motor skills, and numeric knowledge. Utilizing quantitative descriptive analysis, data were examined. The findings showed that the posttest values for motor skill aspects (95) were greater than the pretest results (88, 5). The average increase of each component for playing game was execution skill of 0.05, decision-making of 0.04, opponent coverage of 0.03, and overall of 0.05. Different test results show that t-test (t=4.50), both for game understanding and motor skill aspects, which were greater than t-tables (1,796). The statistics showed that the skills after treatment were significantly different from the students’ ability before treatment. This improvement in decision-making, technical execution, cover, support, game performance, game participation, pleasure, perceived competence, and intention to engage in physical activity is attributable to the usage of net games. The conclusion is that the use of net games is effective in improving the motor competence of elementary school students. However, the study only involves a small number of students, hence it is recommended for including a larger number of students in the further research, as well as using more rigid study design (control group) and take in different elementary schools.
La virtualidad para la tutorización de la tesis de grado: Caso universidad ecuatoriana
Authors: Lopez Álvarez Diana , Ruiz Conforme Néstor , Salas Narváez Luci
Published: November 2023

El presente trabajo muestra un estudio descriptivo el cual fue aplicado a 150 docentes de una universidad ecuatoriana ubicada en el cantón Samborondón y cuya finalidad fue analizar el proceso de tutorización de las tesis de grado bajo la modalidad virtual desde la perspectiva del docente tutor. Para recolectar la información de este estudio se utilizó un cuestionario ad hoc con escala tipo linkert. Los resultados permiten evidenciar que aún debido a la pandemia existe un bajo porcentaje de la preferencia de la modalidad virtual frente a la presencial. Se realiza un análisis final de una propuesta a los docentes para mejorar sus destrezas en la modalidad virtual.