bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shikimate pathway-Dependent Catabolism: enabling near-to-maximum production yield of aromatics
Authors: Santos Vitor Martins dos , Bruinsma Lyon , Batianis Christos , Moreno-Paz Sara , Kurnia Kesi , Dirkmaat Job , Müller Alexandra , Nuñez Jose Juncosa , Weusthuis Ruud
Published: August 2024

Catabolism is a complex network of tightly regulated metabolic reactions that provides energy and carbon to fuel anabolism in all living organisms. Rewiring catabolism is essential for harnessing industrial biotechnology but remains a substantial metabolic engineering challenge due to its high genetic stability and tight regulation acquired through evolution. In this study, by combining metabolic modeling, rational engineering, and adaptive laboratory evolution, we fundamentally redesigned bacterial catabolism. We created a new-to-nature shikimate pathway-dependent catabolism (SDC) in the industrial bacterium Pseudomonas putida by reprogramming the shikimate pathway as the primary catabolic route instead of its native glycolytic one. SDC supports growth by supplying the glycerol catabolic end-product pyruvate, thereby enabling superior production of shikimate pathway-derived molecules. Through SDC, production of aromatics reached 89% of the pathway’s maximum theoretical yield, setting a new benchmark for their microbial synthesis. Our study successfully repurposed an anabolic pathway for catabolism, exemplifying the high metabolic plasticity of microbes and providing a bacterial chassis for the efficient production of fine and bulk chemicals.
Oxidized phosphatidylcholines induce chronic neurodegeneration partly through IL-1β mediated positive feedback
Authors: Yu Ruoqi , Lozinski Brian , Seifert Ally , Ta Khanh , Zandee Stephanie , Kaushik Deepak , Park Jian , Klement Wendy , Larouche Sandra , Tsimikas Sotirios , Witztum Joseph , Prat Alexandre , Dong Yifei
Published: August 2024

Oxidized phosphatidylcholines (OxPC) are neurotoxic byproducts of oxidative stress elevated in the central nervous system (CNS) during progressive multiple sclerosis (P-MS). How OxPC contribute to the pathophysiology of P-MS is unclear. Here, we report that OxPC deposition in the CNS of mice induces a chronic compartmentalized lesion with pathological features similar to chronic active lesions found in P-MS. Using this new model, we found that while microglia protected the CNS from chronic neurodegeneration, they were also replaced by monocyte derived macrophages in chronic OxPC lesions. Aging, a risk factor for P-MS, altered microglial composition and exacerbated neurodegeneration in chronic OxPC lesions. Amelioration of disease pathology in caspase 1/4 deficient mice and by blockade of IL-1R1 indicate IL-1β signaling contributes to chronic OxPC accumulation and neurodegeneration. These results highlight OxPC and IL-1β as potential drivers of chronic neurodegeneration in MS and suggest that their neutralization may be effective for treating P-MS.
Unveiling eccDNA Dynamics in Rice: Insights into Adaptation to Nutritional Stress
Authors: Herrera-Estrella Luis , Ni Hanfang , Yong-Villalobos Lenin , Gu Mian , López-Arredondo Damar , Chen Min , Geng Liyan , Xu Guohua
Published: August 2024

Extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) have been identified in various eukaryotic organisms and play a crucial role in genomic plasticity. However, in crop plants, the role of eccDNAs in responses to environmental cues, particularly nutritional stresses, remains unexplored. Rice (Oryza sativa ssp. japonica), a vital crop for more than half the world's population and an excellent plant model for genomic studies, faces numerous environmental challenges during growth. Therefore, we conducted comprehensive studies investigating the distribution, sequence information, and potential responses of rice eccDNAs to nutritional stresses. We described the landscape of rice eccDNAs during optimal growth phase change and identified the specific induction on gene-overlapped eccDNAs (ecGenes), Transposable Element-overlapped eccDNAs (ecTEs), and the full-length repeat units-overlapped eccDNAs (full-length ecRepeatUnits) in response to nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deficiency. Furthermore, we analyzed multiple-fragment eccDNAs and proposed a TE-mediated homologous recombination mechanism as the origin of rice multiple-fragment eccDNAs. Our studies provide direct evidence of the role of eccDNAs in rice genome plasticity under nutritional stresses and highlight the significance of their abundance and specificity.
The Impact of a Befriending Service on Health-related Quality of Life in Older Adults: An Interventional N-of-1 Pilot Study.
Authors: Power Joanna McHugh , Holton Eimile , Lawlor Brian , Kee Frank , Scharf Thomas , Kelly Michelle , Hannigan Caoimhe
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Befriending interventions are unlikely to reduce loneliness, but they may provide social support which buffers the negative impact of loneliness on health outcomes of older adults. An interventional N-of-1 design was used to assess the impact of a befriending intervention on health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) among older adults, and whether such intervention attenuated the impact of loneliness on HR-QoL.
Methods: Participants were n = 33 new users of the service, aged 60+. Outcomes were measured at 13 timepoints across 26 weeks, and data were analysed using generalised additive modelling (GAM) with a subset of data analysed using visual analysis.
Results: Results indicate that the befriending service may reduce decline of HR-QoL (i.e., health declined in the baseline phase over time: edf = 3.893, F = 3.0, p=0.002, while in the treatment phase, health remained more stable: edf = 5.98, F = 2.98, p=.008). The befriending intervention also suppressed the association between loneliness and HR-QoL. Conclusion: We supported our hypothesis, that befriending interventions may moderate the impact of loneliness on HR-QoL. Interventional N-of-1 designs however carry considerable recruitment and participant burden, which should be considered prior to onset. This research provides an insight into practical difficulties when evaluating existing community-based services, particularly in relation to adhering to best practice design guidelines.
Effect of varying HVL values on dose output of plain X-ray machines at a fixed kV of 80.
Authors: Rukundo Wellen , Natharius  , Luwalira
Published: August 2024

Background
HVL in diagnostic X-ray machine is an important property that is used to define the penetrating ability of an X-ray beam and hence can be used to determine the component of beam hardness.
Purpose
The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of HVL on the dose output of diagnostic X-ray machine and to determine the different corrective actions for the cases which did not comply the established dose limits.
Material and Methods
The study utilized the findings of the radiation safety inspections conducted between 2021–2022 by Atomic Energy Council to investigate different Half value layer (HVL) ranges for diagnostic X-ray machines. A number of 64 X-ray machines were selected for the study based on a set criterion.
Results
A total of 26 X-ray machines failed the HVL test though produced different descriptions of measured dose output. Fifteen (15) X-ray machines produced doses within the permissible range of 0.025 mGy/mAs – 0.080 mGy/mAs, eight (08) X-ray machines produced doses below the lower limit of the dose range of 0.025 mGy/mAs, while three (03) X-ray machines produce doses above the upper limit of the dose range of 0.080 mGy/mAs. The other 38 X-ray machines passed the HVL test but failed the dose output test. These were classified in different HVL groups that exceeded the recommended regulatory limit, that is, moderate (5), high (19), very high (10) and extreme high (4) X-ray machines. The corrective action made was either adding or removing filter plates to enhance or minimize the filtration for machines that failed the HVL test and the ones that passed HVL test but failed the dose output test respectively. However, this should only be after a conclusive investigation of checking the accuracy of tube current (mA), timer (s) and tube potential (kVp) parameters.
Conclusion
Therefore, the corrective action for HVL should not be done in isolation from other machine dose contributing parameters like tube current potential parameters and exposure time. The regulatory body recommends that HVL tests should be part of the acceptance and commissioning tests for the new machines and done routinely for the machines in use as specified in the quality control program for each facility.
Respiratory virome convergence precedes Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia in critically ill patients
Authors: Josset Laurence , Anani Hussein , Destras Grégory , Bulteau Simon , Castain Louise , Semanas Quentin , Burfin Gwendolyne , Martin Florian , Poulain Cecile , Dickson Robert , Bressollette-Bodin Céline , Roquilly Antoine
Published: August 2024

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is one of the most common nosocomial infections, leading to significant morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. HAP has been previously associated with a dysbiosis of the intestinal and respiratory microbiota. However, the composition of the respiratory virome and its role in HAP pathogenesis remains unclear. Here, we longitudinally analysed the endotracheal virome in 87 critically ill patients, including 47 with HAP. The endotracheal virome was dominated by lytic Caudoviricetes bacteriophages and displayed higher inter- than intra-patient variability. Beta diversity analyses revealed a specific viral convergence toward lower diversity prior to the onset of HAP. Specifically, we identified viral signatures and significant changes in bacteriophages interactions with the core lung microbiome before HAP onset. These results were validated in an independent prospective cohort of 43 patients. Our results demonstrate that changes in the lung virome and in the virus-bacterial interactome precedes HAP induction. These findings suggest an uncovered pathophysiological mechanism of HAP with virome involvement in lung microbiota dysbiosis.
The Mediating Role of Vengeful Tendencies in the Relationship between Moral Identity and Effortful Control with Antisocial Behaviors in Adolescents
Authors: Taravian Sara , Nikdel Fariborz , nia Ali Taghvaee
Published: August 2024

Background: Adolescence is a critical period for the onset of risky behaviors, including antisocial behavior. Antisocial behavior, which peaks during adolescence, is costly to both society and the individual, hindering positive adolescent development. The consequences of adolescent antisocial behavior negatively impact not only society but also all those who interact with the individual. Understanding adolescent risk-taking and recognizing that antisocial behavior is a normal part of adolescence can make it easier to identify and prevent such behaviors.
Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of vengeful tendencies in the relationship between moral identity and effortful control with antisocial behaviors in adolescents in Shiraz, Iran.
Method: The statistical population included all high school students. A sample of 567 participants was selected using a multistage cluster random sampling method. The questionnaires of moral identity (Aquino & Reed, 2002), effortful control (Ellis & Rothbart, 2001), vengeful tendencies (Flores-Camacho et al., 2022), and antisocial behaviors (Burt & Donnellan, 2009) were distributed among the participants. The proposed model was evaluated using path analysis.
Results: The findings revealed that the direct path coefficients from effortful control to antisocial behavior, effortful control to vengeful tendencies, vengeful tendencies to antisocial behavior, and moral identity to vengeful tendencies were significant. However, the path coefficient from moral identity to antisocial behavior was not significant. Furthermore, regarding the indirect paths, the findings indicated that vengeful tendencies was significant in the relationship between moral identity and antisocial behavior and between effortful control and antisocial behavior.
Conclusion: Therefore, it is recommended to consider educational programs focusing on strengthening moral identity and effortful control and reducing vengeful tendencies to prevent antisocial behavior of teenagers.
The Importance of Power in Photobiomodulation, a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of High Intensity Laser Therapy
Authors: Penberthy William Todd , Vorwaller Charles E.
Published: August 2024

Low-level light therapy (LLLT; ≤0.5 Watts; W) has advanced to the stage of guideline recommended treatment with payer coverage for treating shallow tissue oral mucositis. However, LLLT often fails in trials treating deeper tissue pathologies due to an inability to penetrate and deliver sufficient therapeutic light. By contrast, Class IV high-intensity laser therapy (HILT; 0.5-80W) typically at 100-fold higher powers has proven successful for treating these same deeper tissue pathologies. To evaluate the range of indications responding favorably to Class IV HILT, we searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases from 2018 to March 2024 using the keywords "laser" AND "photobiomodulation" OR "therapy" AND "high" AND "patients" NOT "surgical", focusing on controlled trials. Effect sizes were determined using Cohen’s d. Fifty-six identified studies (n=1,486 HILT vs n=1,494 controls) reported zero serious adverse events. HILT reduced pain in 100% of the trials focused on the knee (n=10), spine, shoulder/arm, and wounds with large effect sizes (>90%). Positive outcomes were demonstrated for the hand/wrist (n=5), feet, face/jaw, bone osteoporosis, and endometriosis. Improvements in range of motion (94%; n=16), functional outcomes (84%; n=37), quality of life (80%; n=20), knee cartilage thickness, rotator cuff tear size, and nerve conduction were demonstrated. Larger effect sizes occurred in follow-up measurements made after cessation of treatment (n=18) indicating that benefits were sustained and not merely transient. The average (median, range) power used was 9.5W (10.5, 0.5-30) and the average power density was 9.1W/cm2 (8; 1-30). We conclude that Class IV HILT is an exceptionally safe, effective, and increasingly recognized treatment that is in a promising discovery phase of research for an expanding list of indications with deep-tissue pathologies. The medical and payer communities should include HILT as a viable treatment option for indications showing positive outcomes in the published research.
Methodologies for the benefit-risk analysis of medical devices: A systematic review
Authors: Freyer Oscar , Jahed Fatemeh , Ostermann Max , Feig Mirko , Gilbert Stephen
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The use of medical devices (MDs) by patients carries both benefits and risks. Regulatory frameworks such as the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and the US Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) mandate the systematic weighing of these benefits and risks through a benefit-risk analysis (BRA). This systematic review aims to identify existing BRA methodologies for MDs, and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar, covering publications from 2000 onwards using a search string that contained the search terms (1) methodologies AND (2) benefit-risk analysis AND (3) medical device OR in vitro diagnostic medical device. Peer-reviewed publications were included when they described BRA methodologies for MDs. The exclusion criteria included records on unrelated technologies, pharmaceuticals, non-English publications, and insufficient descriptions. The quality assessment was performed using a method proposed by Hawker et al. (2002). The methods and their characteristics were narratively summarised. Each method was assessed for its degree of objectivity and for using numerical calculations on a scale from 0 to 5.
Results: The search identified 622 records, with six meeting the inclusion criteria. The included studies described ten BRA methodologies: Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), Health Outcomes Modelling (HOM), Stated-Choice Surveys (SCS), Composite Net Clinical Outcome (CNCO), Pairwise Comparisons (PC), Complete Profile of Benefits and Risks (CPBR), Net Benefit Score and Benefit-Risk Ratio (NBS & BRR), Quantitative Benefit-Risk Assessment (qBRA), Quantitative Benefit-Risk Determination (QBRD), and the FDA’s Benefit-Risk Framework (BRF). Methods varied in their reliance on numerical calculations and their degree of objectivity, with a significant correlation between both. The average level of objectivity was assessed as medium (2.1/5).
Discussion: This review describes the ongoing debate between qualitative and quantitative BRA methods. While qualitative methods are often criticised for being subjective and biased, our findings reveal that quantitative methods, though more objective, still exhibit subjectivity, especially in endpoint identification and relevance assignment. Despite the rise of quantitative methods, often originating from the pharmaceutical industry, qualitative methods are often still used by MD decision-makers. Additionally, several quantitative methods are unsuited for certain difficult-to-quantify risks of MDs. Integrating both qualitative and quantitative elements may offer a more comprehensive BRA framework for MDs.
Constructive Discussion and City-Making: discursive dynamics and opportunities to influence housing outcomes in Sydney, Australia.
Authors: Wearne Samuel , Baumber Alex , Potts Monique , Riedy Christopher , Matter Scott , Robinson Helena , Salignac Fanny , Paredes Luis Hernando Lozano , Spackman Chloë , Mason Stephanie , Reddan Clare
Published: August 2024

This paper offers a transdisciplinary and socio-cultural exploration into the way cities are planned and governed. It focuses on the concept of “constructive discussion” and uses the housing system of Sydney, Australia as a case study. Mobilising qualitative analysis of interview data with people that influence, or represent, key sectors of the public in relation to housing, the paper has two aims. First, it presents an analysis of how constructive discussion appears to relate to housing issues in Sydney. Doing so shows how constructive discussion can be an avenue for new ways to consider and conceptualise what influences the ‘housing system’. In our case, a focus on constructive discussion enabled ideation of social interventions and democratic innovations that complement technical and policy responses. We document both the diagnosis, and potential responses, in the paper. Most broadly, the paper shows that a focus on constructive discussion can offer new insights for researchers and practitioners seeking to achieve transformative system change in urban and democratic contexts. Our research emerged from a transdisciplinary collaboration between university academics and civil society actors in Sydney, Australia and we propose the ongoing integration of systems science, socio-cultural perspectives and transformative agendas can benefit from such endeavours.
R-Wave Detection From ECG Signal with K-Mean Clustering
Authors: Shrakana Mogu , Yuuki Miki , Zhang Shao , Li Felong , Ben Edward
Published: August 2024

Electrocardiograph (ECG) R-wave detection from abdominal ECGs presents significant challenges due to signal distortion and interference. This study introduces a novel approach using K-Mean Clustering technique to detect ECG R waves from ECG signal. Leveraging the quad periodicity of R waves, we developed an algorithm to identify and correct misaligned and missed R wave detection in the RR time series.
Our detection process comprises two stages. Initially, we detect ECG R waves that do not overlap with QRS complexes. The algorithm then corrects misaligned and missed R waves while predicting approximate regions where ECG R waves overlap with QRS. In the second stage, we detect overlapping ECG R waves within these predicted regions.
We construct QRS complex from non-overlapping detected complexes using K-Mean Clustering.
The algorithm then precisely locates overlapping ECG R waves by finding the optimal correlation between the actual QRS and the superposition of QRS within the predicted regions. The results suggest that our method significantly enhances the accurate extraction of ECG R waves, making it potentially valuable for both clinical and commercial applications in monitoring.
Spatial-Temporal Analysis of Urban Heat Islands in Lilongwe, Zomba, Blantyre, and Mzuzu Cities: Examining the role of Urban Green Spaces
Authors: Khendlo Japhet N
Published: August 2024

This study examines significant environmental transformations in Mzuzu, Lilongwe, Blantyre, and Zomba cities in Malawi over the past 23 years, focusing on changes in land cover and land surface temperatures (LSTs). Our findings reveal substantial decreases in forest cover and vegetation, alongside notable increases in bare land and built-up areas across all cities. These changes are strongly correlated with rising LSTs, as evidenced by a highly significant negative correlation between LSTs and forest/vegetation cover (R = -1.00) and a positive correlation with bare land and built-up areas. For instance, from 2000 to 2023, Mzuzu's minimum LST increased from 14.6°C to 19.5°C, and the maximum LST rose from 26.4°C to 34.3°C. In Lilongwe, the minimum LST increased from 18.4°C to 21.7°C, and the maximum LST from 35.4°C to 46.8°C. The observed trends highlight the critical need for urban planning that integrates green infrastructure and sustainable land use practices.
A study of Extended Spectrum ß-Lactamases in Gram-negative Bacterial Isolates in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai
Authors: Sharma Anuradha , Gajbar Leena Mandurke , Shrivastava Priyanshu Kumar
Published: August 2024

Background: Injudicious use of antimicrobials for any infection causes microbes to undergo changes through selective pressure and ultimately leads to the development of antimicrobial resistance. The production of ß-Lactamase is one of the most important mechanisms adopted by bacteria to evade action by penicillins and cephalosporins. Materials and Methods: This prospective in vitro study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai over a 6-month period with the aim of identifying extended spectrum b-lactamases (ESBLs) in Gram-negative bacteria in clinical isolates, by double disk diffusion test and E test. Results: Five thousand five hundred and forty-eight g-negative bacilli were isolated of which 2354 (42.42%) were ESBL producers. Maximum numbers of ESBL production were seen in isolates from the blood sample (53.91%) followed by pus (47%) and urine samples (42.27%). Conclusion: ESBL-producing organisms are increasing in the community; therefore, restricted and judicious use of the third generation cephalosporins is to be followed to prevent and control such types of resistance.
Masters Says…
Authors: Kumar Ayush , Lamba Preeti
Published: August 2024

Homoeopathy is a holistic form of medicine that has been practiced for over two centuries. Many homoeopathic masters have developed clinical tips and guidelines for selecting and prescribing homoeopathic remedies based on their extensive clinical experience. Some of the key clinical tips offered by homoeopathic masters include taking a thorough case history, paying careful attention to the patient’s unique symptoms and constitution, and selecting remedies based on the principle of “like cures like.” Homoeopathic masters, such as Dr. Hahnemann, Dr. Hering, Dr. Kent, and Dr. Boericke developed homoeopathic materia medica to guide the selection of homoeopathic remedies based on the patient’s symptoms. These resources provide detailed information on the properties and indications of various homoeopathic drugs, allowing practitioners to match the patient’s symptoms with the most appropriate remedy, but sometimes applying the knowledge of materia medica in clinical practice is difficult. Hence, our homoeopathic masters had given some advice for clinical application of homoeopathic materia medica. These advices and tips are scatter in various homoeopathic books and literatures. In this manuscript, important clinical tips were collected after reviewing various homoeopathic books and literatures.
A Case of Atypical Delayed Anaphylaxis to Rifampin
Authors: Nguyen Cindy M. , Sworzyn Jessica , Mohyi Paula , Li Marilyn , Kwong Kenny
Published: August 2024

Rifampin is a mainstay in anti-tuberculosis therapy and is generally well tolerated and safe to take at therapeutic dosing. While anaphylactic reactions to rifampin are exceedingly rare, prompt recognition and awareness is vital to patient safety, and alternative medications should be considered desensitization has been associated with significant morbidity. Here we report a case of a severe anaphylactic reaction to rifampin. A 65-year-old Asian woman was diagnosed with active tuberculosis and initiated on rifampin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol (RIPE). A couple of weeks after initiating RIPE therapy, she developed urticaria and angioedema and therapy was held. Upon resumption of RIPE, she developed emesis, fever, chills, perioral cyanosis, and hypotension within a few hours of the first dose. She was admitted to the intensive care unit for a rifampin graded dose challenge and subsequently developed a severe anaphylactic reaction to rifampin four hours after the final dose of the challenge. She tolerated desensitization to isoniazid and ethambutol well and was prescribed an alternative anti-tuberculosis regimen of isoniazid, ethambutol, levofloxacin, and pyridoxine for a total of 18 months to complete her treatment.
An Overview of Natural Disintegrating Agent Used in Dispersible Tablets
Authors: Prajapat Abhishek , Yadav Akash , Jain Dinesh Kumar
Published: August 2024

The oral therapy is the most commonly used method for administering many medications since it is thought to be the safest, most practical, and least expensive method. Fast dissolving pills are highly popular right now because they dissolve or easily dissolve in the mouth after administration without the need for water. Fast dissolving tablets have been developed to address the drawbacks of conventional dose forms, particularly dysphagia (refers to problem in which it becomes difficult to swallow), in pediatric and geriatric patients. Natural materials offer an advantage in comparison to the synthetic ones since they are more easily accessible, cost effective, not harmful, and chemically inert. By acting as a binder, diluent, and superdisintegrant, natural polymers such as locust bean gum, banana powder, mango peel pectin, Mangifera indica gum, and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis mucilage improve tablet properties, increase the solubility of drugs which are insoluble or poorly soluble, helps in reducing the disintegration time, and aid as nutritional supplements. Natural polymer is derived from natural source, are economical, not harmful, decomposable, and environmentally helpful, free of negative effects, restorable, and serve as nutritional supplements. Studies have shown that natural polymers are more effective and safer than manufactured polymers. The aim of the current article is to study and examine natural polymers which have been approved by Food and Drug Administration for use in quick dissolving tablets.
Understanding the Pharmacodynamics of Kriyakalpa
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Sitpal Nivedita , Fiaz Shamsa
Published: August 2024

Pharmacodynamics is the study of a drug’s molecular, biochemical, and physiologic effects. In short, it is all about how a drug affects an organism. There are some important factors that play an important role in the absorption of drugs in the body, like the route of drug administration, solubility and bioavailability, physical state of the drug and molecular weight, Time of absorption, and Vascularity of the absorbing surface. In Ayurveda, the local treatment procedures of Netra are explained in the name of Netra Kriya Kalpa (Su. U. 18/2). The word kriya means therapeutic action, and kalpana means specific formulations. Kriya Kalpa is a Bahirparimarjana Chikitsa and has several advantages over oral administration. They are noninvasive and cost-effective. No biodegradation of Drugs, Effective against blood aqueous and blood-retinal barriers, Comparatively, less dose is required, and it can be used as a preventive as well as a curative. Overall, we can say that Kriyakalp Procedures have several advantages as compared to oral administration.
Monkeypox: Next Global Health Emergency Hitting India in 2022
Authors: Yasmeen Subuhi , Noor Rana
Published: August 2024

Monkeypox disease which is catalyzed by the zoonotic orthopox monkeypox virus is taking shape in the form of novel threat to the human lives not only in India but also worldwide creating a sense of fear and panic and gaining attention globally after the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic. The present research article discusses about the current scenario and preparedness in India after the first case of the monkeypox disease that has hit the country and what are the master plans that the country should follow in the future to cease the virus transmission.
Level of Inflammation and its Association with Pain, Physical Functioning and KL-Grade in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Kherani Ayesha , Ibrahim Geeta , Sorathia Zubair
Published: August 2024

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis, causes a progressive loss of articular cartilage. In recent years, there has been a shift in the understanding of OA from a “wear and tear” disease to an “inflammatory” condition. Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the level of inflammation and to evaluate the relationship between inflammation, pain, physical functioning, and Kellgren Lawrence (KL)-grade in patients with knee OA. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients with radiographic evidence of knee OA (KL Grade I/II/III) were cross-sectionally analyzed. Data about their anthropometry, inflammatory markers high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate-(ESR), pain, and physical functioning were collected. Results: The mean hsCRP among the patient population was 4.6 ± 4.0 mg/L and the mean ESR was 40.4 ± 21.8 mm/h. There was a strong significant association of visual analog scale (VAS) pain score with hsCRP (r = 0.353; P = 0.005) and ESR (r = 0.269; P = 0.036). There was a strong significant association of Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index score with hsCRP (r = 0.415; P = 0.001) and ESR (r = 0.413, P = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in hsCRP or ESR when classified according to KL-grade (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The level of inflammation is high in knee OA patients. Inflammation is significantly associated with pain intensity and physical functioning in knee OA patients. However, there is no significant difference in hsCRP, ESR, and VAS when classified according to KL-grade. This emphasizes the need to study inflammatory markers in addition to radiographic evidence for informed clinical decision-making.
Effects of nitric oxide on composition of the isolated essential oil from Satureja hortensis L. (Lamiaceae), under the cadmium stress
Authors: Azizi Iraj , Asadi Mohammad
Published: August 2024

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the heavy metals that cause environmental pollution and biochemical changes in plants grown in contaminated soils. In plants, sodium nitroprusside is used as a nitric oxide (NO) release agent. In this research, a glasshouse pot experiment was conducted to examine the effect of exogenous NO on the essential oil composition of the savory plant, Satureja hortensis, under the Cd stress. For this, the plants were treated by different levels of Cd concentration including 0 (control), 75, 100, and 150 µM in the contaminated soil. Plants were also foliar sprayed with concentrations of 0 (control), 50, 100, and 200 µM NO. The results indicated that carvacrol was the main compound in all examined essential oils. Also, there were significant differences among the essential compounds under treatments of Cd and NO. Moreover, the differences among minor constituents were not significant in most of treatments. In apposite, carvacrol (approximately 60% of total volume) showed a significant difference than the others. The results indicated the role of exogenous agents on the changes of essential oil constituents in S. hortensis.
Chemical content profile and antioxidant activity of Rhododendron ponticum L. (Ericaceae) extracts
Authors: Sıcak Yusuf , Öztürk İrfan , Şahin Bihter , Çam Dilaycan , Cakır Cansel , Öztürk Mehmet
Published: August 2024

Rhododendron species (Ericaceae) is considered the most diverse group, with more than 1200 species famous for their colorful flowers. Rhododendron, also known as azalea, is a flowering tree in the Ericaceae family. Herein, in vitro antioxidant activities of acetone and methanol extracts of Rhododendron ponticum leaves were studied along with their phenolic contents using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with a Diode-Array Detector (HPLC-DAD). Antioxidant activity was performed spectrophotometrically using ABTS·+, DPPH·, CUPRAC, and β-carotene/linoleic acid assays. Acetone extract showed better antioxidant activity than methanol extract in all tests. The HPLC-DAD analysis revealed fifteen phenolic compounds, of which seven were common for both extracts. Catechin (25.80 and 33.08 mg/g extract, respectively) and epicatechin (31.15 and 26.54 mg/g extract, respectively) were calculated as major phenolic components in acetone and methanol extracts.
Chemical composition and potent antibacterial activities of colony-forming cyanobacteria, Desmonostoc muscorum (Nostocales, Cyanophyceae)
Authors: Arguelles Eldrin
Published: August 2024

Cyanobacteria are important natural sources of biomolecules and active compounds with promising biological activities against a wide range of microbial pathogens. The study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and antibacterial activities of colony-forming cyanobacteria, Desmonostoc muscorum. Proximate analysis showed that D. muscorum biomass possesses high concentration of carbohydrates (35.50 ± 0.12%), protein (20.19 ± 0.03%), and ash (16.90 ± 0.02%). The elemental composition of D. muscorum biomass is in a decreasing order of Ca > Mn > Mg > K > Na > Fe> Zn > Cr > Pb > Cu > Cd. Also, D. muscorum extract exhibited potent antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes with MIC values of 125 μg/mL, 125 μg/mL, and 250 μg/mL, respectively. The current study documents the promising use of D. muscorum as good sources of microelements and compounds which can be harness for food and medical applications.
Examination of the chemical composition and anti-diabetic activities of the oils of Abelmoschus esculentus, Peganum harmala, and Aquilaria agallocha cultivated in Muğla
Authors: Çetintaş Yunus , Çetintaş Ayşe , Sıcak Yusuf , Öztürk Mehmet
Published: August 2024

In this study, the oils of Abelmoschus esculentus, Peganum harmala, and Aquilaria agallocha grown in different regions of Muğla, Türkiye were obtained using the cold pressing and maceration techniques. The oils were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine their fatty acid compositions. Thirty-seven fatty acids were detected. Palmitic acid (C16:0), linoleic acid (C18:2), and oleic acid (C18:1 cis-9) were the major components in all oils. Additionally, the anti-diabetic activity of the oils was screened against α-amylase and α-glycosidase, which are the related enzymes to diabetes mellitus. Promising results regarding anti-diabetic activity for Aquilaria agallocha oils were obtained.
Cytotoxic effect of Eleutherococcus trifoliatus (L.) S.Y. Hu stem bark extracts on Gastric, Lung, and Hepatocellular cancer cells
Authors: Quan Nguyen , Ly Bui Thi Kim , Chi Hoang Thanh
Published: August 2024

Eleutherococcus trifoliatus is a popular medicinal species used in Asian folk medicine with many uses in treating human diseases. Scientific research on this plant has been limited, but some scientific publications have described this herb's anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities. Although it is a frequently used part of traditional medicine, current scientific evidence on the biological activities of E. trifoliatus stem bark is still lacking. By performing chemical reactions, free radical scavenging experiments, toxicity experiments on brine shrimp, and cytotoxicity tests using MTT dye, the study has shown the diversity in the metabolic composition of E. trifoliatus stem bark as well as the antioxidant capacity and safety of the total extract. The anticancer effect of the total extract was investigated and indicated the dramatical ability to inhibit the cell growth of liver cancer HCC-J5 cells (IC50 = 19.35 ± 4.89 µg/mL), lung cancer cells A549 (IC50 = 5.34 ± 1.62 µg/mL) and gastric cancer cells AGS (IC50 = 0.22 ± 0.20 µg/mL); the selectivity in effects was also observed. The chloroform fraction had the most potential to be further exploited in the direction of inhibiting cancer cells.
Selenium nanoparticles synthesized via green methods from Calluna vulgaris extract: Exploring their antioxidant and antibacterial activities
Authors: Erdem Ecem , Aydın Acar Çiğdem
Published: August 2024

This study introduces a sustainable and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by using Calluna vulgaris as a reducing agent. The process involves the addition of Na2SeO3 to a C. vulgaris aqueous solution, followed by reduction with ascorbic acid. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed SeNP formation, with a distinct absorption peak at 289 nm. Morphological analysis via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed spherical nanoparticles below 100 nm, as corroborated by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images displaying sizes ranging from 42.91 to 66.93 nm. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed the presence of selenium. Antibacterial assessments demonstrated the efficacy of C.vulgaris Selenium Nanoparticles (Cv-SeNPs) against gram-positive (Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). Cv-SeNPs exhibited notable antibacterial activity, particularly against E. Faecalis. In terms of antioxidant activities, Cv-SeNPs exhibited significant scavenging potential against DPPH and ABTS radicals, with low IC50 values of 24.72 and 16.87 µg/mL, respectively. The scavenging activities increased with concentration, reaching 86.6% for DPPH and 99.7% for ABTS at specific concentrations. The inclusion of ascorbic acid as a capping agent further augmented the free radical scavenging capabilities, indicating a synergistic relationship between selenium nanoparticles and capping agents. This research underscores the dual functionality of Cv-SeNPs as effective antibacterial agents and potent antioxidants. The green synthesis methodology utilizing C. vulgaris offers a sustainable approach for producing selenium nanoparticles with desirable characteristics, suggesting potential applications in medicine and industry. Further research on biomedical and industrial uses of Cv-SeNPs is needed.
AIIB e o novo multilateralismo com características chinesas:
Authors: Vadell Javier , Spellmann Samuel
Published: August 2024

A criação do Banco Asiático de Investimentos em Infraestrutura (AIIB) ocorre enquanto concretização de um novo engajamento multilateral criado para comportar a participação de Estados de todo o mundo. Este artigo analisa as transformações econômicas e geopolíticas contemporâneas, assinalando que o ordenamento mundial estaria se modificando e fragmentando e que o processo de institucionalização do AIIB, com a concretização de um novo tipo de multilateralismo, que desafia a hegemonia estadunidense. O artigo foca no movimento de consolidação institucional do AIIB, interpretando-o a partir do momento geopolítico enfrentado pela China no campo internacional.
fim da hegemonia proibicionista sobre a cannabis? Uma análise da votação da CND 2020 e seu significado
Authors: Pereira Paulo
Published: August 2024

Ao longo do século XX, a proibição da cannabis tornou-se hegemônica em um processoliderado pelos Estados Unidos e sua “guerra às drogas”. Contudo, uma série de flexibilizaçõesrecentes no controle desta planta apontam para rupturas nesta hegemonia proibicionistada cannabis. Propomos compreender tais rupturas no cenário internacional analisando amudança do status desta planta nas listas de controle internacional das drogas devido àvotação ocorrida em 2020 na Comissão de Drogas Narcóticas da ONU. Concluímos quetal votação indica a existência de novos valores, entendimentos e interesses relacionadosà cannabis baseados no binómio saúde-segurança e ligados ao capitalismo.
UN LGBTI Core Group
Authors: Marcussi Pontes Rúbia
Published: August 2024

O artigo analisa o trabalho do LGBTI Core Group das Nações Unidas (ONU) na legitimaçãoe integração dos direitos humanos das pessoas LGBTQIA+ na ONU e na agenda e mandatodo Conselho de Segurança (CSNU). Ao utilizar um modelo de definição de agenda parapromover quadros interpretativos, o artigo reconstitui a trajetória dos direitos humanosLGBTQIA+ na ONU e identifica os esforços recentes do Core Group para eliminar, noConselho, a lacuna entre esses direitos humanos e paz e segurança internacionais. O artigoidentifica as características únicas do CSNU, como o poder de veto, como restrições, masdestaca alinhamentos políticos para avanços.
Metabolomic Approach Reveals the Nutritional Potential of Brosimum gaudichaudii, an Underexploited Native Brazilian Fruit
Authors: Pascoal Grazieli , Meza Silvia , Tobaruela Eric , Massaretto Isabel , Giacomolli Jéssica , Chiareto Juliana , Borges Florença , Borges Danielle , Purgatto Eduardo
Published: August 2024

Brazilian Savanna biodiversity is abundant in native fruits with nutritional and sensory properties with potential technological applications. However, the information available regarding the proprieties of Brazilian native fruits is still limited. This study aimed to analyze the metabolic profile of Brosimum gaudichaudii fruits (BGF) using metabolomics approaches, besides its physicochemical and nutritional proprieties. BGF exhibited protein content at least two times higher than other native fruits. Fifty-five metabolites were identified by the metabolomics approaches, mainly fatty acids (n = 22), carbohydrates (n = 13), organic acids (n = 6), and polyphenols (n = 5). The most abundant constituents were D-fructose (42.97%) for sugars, L-asparagine (6.47%) for amino acids, succinic acid (44.11%) for organic acids, and linolenic acid (3.04%) for fatty acids. Highlighted phytochemicals included chlorogenic acid, α-amyrin, and γ-tocopherol. Additionally, this study revealed that BGF is a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber and an excellent source of vitamin A. Future studies providing nutritional information and suggesting consumption methods and potential industrial applications are essential to familiarize consumers with these foods. Additionally, clarifying the appropriate planting and harvesting seasons can revive traditional practices, especially for native fruits like BGF.
The Effect of Prognostic Nutritional Index and Systemic Inflammatory Index in Endometrioid Type Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Gulseren Varol , Daggez Mine , Sen Ertugrul , Dolanbay Mehmet , Caglı Fulya , Ozcelik Bulent , Serin İbrahim Serdar , Gungorduk Kemal
Published: August 2024

OBJECTIVES: The primary goal of the cohort was to show the relationship between systemic inflammatory index (SII) and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) values and the prognostic factors of endometrial cancer (EC), especially lymph node (LN) involvement, and lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI), which can not generally be evaluated preoperatively.
STUDY DESIGN: This is a retrospective cohort based on reviews of patient records who were diagnosed with EC and underwent treatment between January 2014 and 2021. Complete blood counts and albumin level measurements were performed within 2 weeks before treatment.
RESULTS: Two hundred twenty-seven patients with endometrioid type EC were included in the cohort. The mean follow-up was 35.4 ± 19.6 months. LVSI positivity was 8.2% in the presence of low SII and 44.1% in the presence of high SII (p<0.001). LVSI positivity was 23.3% in the presence of low PNI and 11.1% in the presence of high PNI (p=0.025). Low and high PNI values do not affect disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) significantly. 5-year mean DFS and OS differ significantly with low and high SII values.
CONCLUSİON: SII and PNI values can be used to predict the presence of LVSI in the preoperative period, and to determine the extent of LN dissection and the surgical procedure Patients with high SII values had worse survival outcomes.
Calcium oxide enhances the anaerobic co-digestion of excess sludge and plant waste: performance and mechanism
Authors: Wang Yongliang , Wang Kang , Zhou Xiaohui , Dai Bin , Du Daozhong
Published: August 2024

The study investigates the effect of the oxidant calcium oxide (CaO) on the codigestion of excess sludge (ES) and plant waste (PW) under mesophilic anaerobic conditions to enhance methane production. The findings indicate that CaO significantly elevated methane yield in the codigestion system, with an optimum CaO addition of 6% resulting in a maximum methane production of 461 mL/g volatile solids, which is approximately 1.3 times that of the control group. Mechanistic exploration revealed that CaO facilitated the disintegration of organic matter, enhanced the release of soluble chemical oxygen demand, and increased the concentrations of soluble proteins and polysaccharides within the codigestion substrate. The presence of CaO was conducive to the generation and biological transformation of volatile fatty acids, with a notable accumulation of acetic acid, a smaller carboxylic acid within the VFAs. The proportion of acetate in the CaO-amended group increased to 32.6–36.9%. Enzymatic analysis disclosed that CaO enhanced the activity of hydrolytic and acidogenic enzymes associated with the ES and PW codigestion process but suppressed the activity of coenzyme F420. Moreover, CaO augmented the nutrient load in the fermentation liquid. The study provides an alternative scheme for the efficient resource utilization of ES and PW.
Effect of Different Roasting Levels and Manual Brewing Techniques on the Sensory Profile of Liberica Coffee with Honey Process
Authors:   Universitas Brawijaya, Sunarharum Wenny Bekti , Nurminah Mimi ,   University of North Sumatra, Purba Newyearta Gloria ,   University of North Sumatra
Published: August 2024

Liberica coffee is less popular than Arabica and Robusta coffees. One reason is that Liberica coffee has a less pleasant flavor than its other counterparts. Exploration on Liberica coffees and the processing impact on quality is still limitedly published. The objectives of this research are to evaluate the effect of different roasting levels and manual brewing techniques on the sensory profile of Liberica coffee. The green coffee beans used in this study are processed using honey. The Qualitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA) method evaluated sensory profiles, while a preference test was also performed. The brewed coffee’s basic physicochemical characteristics (color, pH, and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)) were measured. The sensory evaluation applied a factorial Randomized Block Design with two factors, i.e., roasting level (light, medium, dark) and manual brewing technique (V60, French press), while the physicochemical characteristics analysis followed a nested design. The results showed that different roasting levels and manual brewing techniques significantly impacted 11 coffee sensory attributes, pH values, and panelists' preferences. The most preferred Liberica coffee honey processing treatment was light roast level with the V60 manual brewing technique.