bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of serum albumin levels and long-term prognosis in patients with biopsy- confirmed nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Takahashi Hirokazu , Kawanaka Miwa , Fujii Hideki , Iwaki Michihiro , Hayashi Hideki , Toyoda Hidenori , Oeda Satoshi , Hyogo Hideyuki , Morishita Asahiro , Munekage Kensuke , Kawata Kazuhito , Tsutsumi Tsubasa , Sawada Koji , Maeshiro Tatsuji , Tobita Hiroshi , Yoshida Yuichi , Naito Masafumi , Araki Asuka , Arakaki Shingo , Kawaguch Takumi , Noritake Hidenao , Ono Masafumi , Masaki Tsutomu , Yasuda Satoshi , Tomita Eiichi , Yoneda Masato , Tokushige Akihiro , Kamada Yoshihiro , Ueda Shinichiro , Aishima Shinichi , Sumida Yoshio , Nakajima Atsushi , Okanoue Takeshi
Published: November 2022

Background: The relationship between baseline serum albumin level and long-term prognosis of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unknown.
Methods:This is a sub-analysis of the CLIONE (Clinical Outcome Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) study. The main outcomes were: death or orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), liver-related death, and liver-related events (hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC], decompensated cirrhosis, and gastroesophageal varices/bleeding).
Results:1,383 Japanese patients with biopsy-confirmed NAFLD were analyzed. They were divided into 3 groups based on serum albumin: high (>4.0 g/dL), intermediate (3.5–4.0 g/dL), and low (<3.5 g/dL). Unadjusted hazard ratio [HR] of the intermediate albumin group, compared with the high albumin group, were 3.6 for death or OLT, 11.2 for liver-related death, 4.6 for HCC, 8.2 for decompensated cirrhosis, and 6.2 for gastroesophageal varices (all risks were statistically significant). After adjusting confounding factors, albumin remained significantly associated with death or OLT (intermediate vs high albumin group: HR 3.06, 95% confidence interval[CI] 1.59–5.91, P< 0.001; low vs high albumin group: HR 22.9, 95% CI 8.21–63.9, P< 0.001).
Conclusions: Among biopsy-confirmed NAFLD patients, those with intermediate or low serum albumin had a significantly higher risk of death or OLT than those with high serum albumin.
Evaluating the Adulteration of Sodium Benzoate and Potassium Sorbate in tomato paste on the physicochemical properties of the tomato paste using an olfactory machine and artificial intelligence
Authors: sadriyan Sanaz , Kia Hossein Javadi , nategh nahid aghili , naderloo leila , sharifi Rouhallah
Published: November 2022

Tomato is the second most important product consumed worldwide. Since tomato paste is considered the most important seasoning in food, its quality and safety are of particular importance. The present study aims to investigate adulteration in tomato paste. To this aim, an olfactory machine system based on 10 gas sensors was used, and its potential to detect different levels of adulteration of sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate at 0, 0.05, and 0.1% in tomato paste was assessed. The effect of these preservatives on some physicochemical properties of tomato paste, such as pH, total soluble solid (TSS), precipitate weight ratio, and acidity, was also investigated. The results indicated that both preservatives in tomato paste significantly affected all its physicochemical parameters at the 1% significance level. The confusion matrix results showed that the LDA method has a high performance in detecting different percentages of preservatives with 100% accuracy. C-SVM and PCA were also recognized as suitable and accurate methods for detecting samples containing sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate at 0.05% and 0.1%. The results of the loading chart indicated that TGS2620, MQ135, and TGS2602 sensors were the most sensitive sensors in detecting adulterated tomato paste samples. Also, according to the results of predicting physicochemical parameters, PCR and MLR models were the most appropriate models to predict acidity and precipitate weight ratio, Brix, and pH, respectively. Overall, it can be stated that the electronic nose is an appropriate tool to detect food adulteration in all adulteration types, thereby saving substantial time and money.
Molecular Docking, Antimicrobial, Anticancer Effect of Schiff Base Ligand and Its Co (II), Ni (II), Cu (II) and Cd (II) Complexes
Authors: Arumugam A P , Elango G , Guhanathan S
Published: November 2022

The objective of the present study is to evaluate the molecular docking, antimicrobial, anticancer activity of the Schiff based Cobalt (II), Nickel (II), Copper (II) and Cadmium (II) complexes derived from 3, 4 – diamino benzophenone, salicylaldehyde and glutaric anhydride. The Schiff base ligand and their complexes have been further identified by1H NMR,13C NMR. All the Schiff base metal complexes have been screened for their Antimicrobial and anticancer effect. The anticancer activity was studied using MTT assay which showed that the increase in concentration of compound increases the cell death. At 7.8 µg/ml concentration there is an increased anticancer activity, i.e., around more than 97% of cell inhibition. The results of anticancer activity may be positively correlated.
Ɛ-Polycaprolactone degradation by a thermostable lipase isolated from Brevibacillus thermoruber strain 7
Authors: Boyadzhieva Ivanka , Atanasova Nikolina , Paunova-Krasteva Tsvetelina , Kambourova Margarita
Published: November 2022

An exponentially increasing accumulation of plastic wastes in the environment represents one of the biggest problems of our society that could be resolved by a biodegradation by enough effective degraders and their enzymes. The high catalytic rates of thermophilic enzymes, their thermostability and temperature optimum close to the melting points of some plastics determine thermophiles as a promising way for resolving the problem. In the present work we report on the ability of a thermophilic lipase by Brevibacillus thermoruber strain 7 to degrade Ɛ-polycaprolactone (PCL), the enzyme purification, characterization of its physico-chemical properties, degradation products and its disruptive effect on PCL. The pure enzyme showed a temperature optimum at 55°C and pH 7.5, its half life at 60°C was more than five hours. Its substrate specificity referred the enzyme to the subgroup of lipases in the esterase group. The strong inhibitory effect was observed by detergents, inhibitors and Fe3+, while Ca2+ enhanced its activity. The monomer Ɛ-caprolactone was a main product of the enzyme degradation. The similar elution profiles of the products received after treatment with ultraconcentrate and pure enzyme were observed. The significant changes of PCL appearance comprising the formation of shallower or deeper infolds were observed after week incubation. The high temperature optimum in a large pH area, its thermostability and PCL degradation to its monomer suggest a possible exploration of the enzyme for an effective and environment friendly degradation of PCL wastes.
Design Serious Game For Automatic Optimization Production Based on Blockchain
Authors: Putri Astrid Novita , Hariadi Mochamad , Fuad Reza
Published: November 2022

Indonesian agricultural production is unpredictable. The harvest quality causes this is not-optimal harvest quality. The researchers provide a solution by utilizing a severe game design model as a learning medium to make decisions for optimizing production. In comparison, Blockchain technology is for data security, Distributed ledgers and Smart Contracts. The transaction between producers and consumers are permanent and verified. For the literature study of optimization to maximize farmers' production, the researchers use Simplex Method as an objective function and the Pareto function as an optimization model for multiple problems by finding solutions for all purposes to improve farmers' production. Multi-Objective Optimization, Linear Programming, Blockchain, and Hierarchical State Finite Machine are needed to design a serious game. This study designed Hierarchical State Finite Machine Serious Game using Blockchain and Multi-Objective Optimization method as a learning medium to simulate farmers making decisions In producing agricultural quantities based on consumer demand, stock, price, season, and planting time. Blockchain is used to track the availability of farm stocks so that the supply of consumer needs is met.
Isolation and Characterization of Lysinibacillus Sphaericus as Potential Bacteria for Toxic Metals Bioremediation in Industrial Wastewater of Western Himalayan Region
Authors: Rana Kavita , Aggarwal R K , Bhardwaj S K , Chauhan Anjali
Published: November 2022

The discharge of industrial waste effluent contains toxic substances which cause serious threat to human health as well as environment. The present study was conducted to determine the isolation and characterization of heavy metal removing Bacteria and its efficacy for removing Pb, Cd, Cu and Ni toxicity. In this study, wastewater samples were collected from different contaminated industrial sites in western Himalayan region. The isolate was recovered on nutrient agar plate supplemented with different concentration of Pb, Cd, Cu and Ni by the standard pour plate method. The isolated strain was characterized on the basis of morphological and biochemical test. The strain was identified as Lysinibacillus sphaericus. After identification heavy metal removal efficacy of the bacterial isolate for lead was 100% (1or 3ppm), 95% (5ppm), 90% (7ppm) and 85% (10 ppm). Heavy metal removal efficacy of the bacterial isolates for Cd was 100% (1ppm, 3ppm), 95% (5 and 7ppm) and 90% (10ppm). Heavy metal removal efficacy of the isolated bacteria for Ni was 100% (1ppm), 96% (3ppm), for 5ppm it removes 92%, 89% at 7ppm and at 10ppm the removal efficacy is 85%. Heavy metal removal efficacy of the isolated bacteria for Cu was 100% at 1ppm concentration, 98% at 3ppm, 94% at 5ppm, 91% at 7ppm and 88% at 10 ppm. The nucleotide sequences of Lysinibacillus sphaericus generated through 16S rDNA technique, the accession number provided to the bacterial sequence is OM904067. This strain was best for heavy metal tolerance and for bioremediation of heavy metal polluted environment.
Effect of humidity on formaldehyde oxidation over Ce0.8Zr0.2Oy catalyst
Authors: 刘 巷 , Liu Tiancheng , Wang Fang , Jia Lijuan , Chang Yu , Qin Gaoyuan , Yang Zonglin
Published: November 2022

The humidity of indoor air greatly affects the effect of
formaldehyde removal by catalyst.Herein, we chose the
Ce0.8Zr0.2Oy catalyst catalytic
oxidation to remove formaldehyde and investigated the effect of
humidity on catalyst activity by adjusting moisture content in this
process. The experimental results showed that the formaldehyde
removal rate increased with the increase of humidity, but when the
humidity was greater than 50%, the formaldehyde removal rate
decreased by 3%. Characterization results illustrated that humidity
was conducive to the activation of oxygen and the generation of
hydroxyl, both of which promoted the formation and oxidative
decomposition of intermediates, but also prevented their
deposition,blocking the pore, so that more formaldehyde was
adsorbed and oxidized, thus improving the activity of the
catalyst.This provide a new mechanism for the oxidation of
formaldehyde and help to design relatively cheap formaldehyde
purification materials.
Effects of maize variety on the structure of maize phyllosphere fungal communities
Authors: Wang Xiangmei , Wang Chaoyan , Chen Ru , Wang Wenxing , Tian Xueliang , Wang Diandong
Published: November 2022

It is well known that plant genotype can regulate phyllosphere fungi at the species level. However, little is known about how plant varieties shape the fungal communities in the phyllosphere. In this study, four types of maize varieties with various levels of resistances to Exserohilum turcicum were subjected to high‑throughput sequencing to reveal the properties that influences the composition of phyllosphere fungal communities. The dominant fungi genera for all four maize varieties were Alternaria at different relative abundances, followed by Nigrospora. Hierarchical clustering analysis, non-metric multidimensional scaling and similarity analysis confirmed that the fungal communities in the phyllosphere of the four varieties were significantly different and clustered into the respective maize variety they inhabited. Maize leaf chemical constituents (nitrogen, phosphorus, tannins and flavonoids), were the main contributors in structuring the phyllosphere fungal communities. The co-occurrence network of the fungal communities in the phyllosphere of highly resistant variety had higher complexity, integrity and stability compared to others maize varieties. In a conclusion, maize variety resistance and leaf chemical constituents play a major role in shaping the phyllosphere fungal community. The work proposes a link between the assembled fungal communities within the phyllosphere with maize variety that is resistant to pathogenic fungi infection.
Characterization of Catalase Enzyme from Leaf Tissue of Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) Plant
Authors: Taş Ömer , Mitrovica Betül , Ekinci Deniz
Published: November 2022

Aronia is among the most antioxidant containing plants which is found commonly around the worls. Aronia cultivation started in Turkey for the first time in 2012 at the Atatürk Central Research Institute of Garden Cultures, and a plantation was constructed in the experimental area. Since antioxidants help to preserve food by blocking oxidation processes and contributing to the health promotion provided by numerous dietary supplements, nutraceutical and functional food additives, antioxidant capacity of these plants should be well characterized. To assess and evaluate the antioxidant content of foods and plant products, many approaches are utilized. In this study, catalase enzyme was partially purified from aronia plant leaf tissue and characterization was carried out. Purification process consisted of homogenate preparation, ammonium sulfate precipitation and dialysis. The optimal ionic strength, pH, substrate concentration and enzyme quantity were examined. These values were found to be 300 mM TRIS, pH:8, 12 mM H2O2 and 75 µl, respectively, for the catalase enzyme of the Aronia plant leaf tissue. This study is the first in the literature dealing with the characterization of antioxidant enzyme from Aronia plant.
CXCL family-related classification predicts prognosis and response to immunotherapy in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Gao Shun , Tang Xuemei , Gao Chao , Gao Xinrui , Guo Xuanzhu , Luo Yuyao , Li Sijie , Gong Guotao , Zhang Yan , Lin Sheng
Published: November 2022

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most prevalent malignant cancer worldwide. The cysteine X cysteine (CXC) chemokine family contains 17 members. Increasing evidence supports that CXC chemokines are crucial for the growth, invasion, metastasis, and microenvironment of tumour cells. Although the precise functions of CXC ligands (CXCLs) in HNSCC are unclear, these proteins are considered to play important roles in controlling tumour growth and forming the tumour immune environment.
Results: We identified two subtypes of HNSCC associated with the CXCL family through consensus clustering, named as clusters 1 and 2. Patients with the cluster 1 subtype showed favourable clinical outcomes, considerable immune cell infiltration, and improved immune response signalling pathway modulation. We developed a nomogram of CXCL family scores for therapeutic use and CXCL family scores to predict the overall survival of patients with HNSCC. Patients with lower CXCL family scores showed longer overall survival and higher immune cell infiltration in their tissues.
Conclusion: We developed a new classification method for HNSCC using the CXCL family genes. This method can be used clinically to evaluate the prognosis and response to immunotherapy in patients with HNSCC.
Vaginal health and quality of sexual life of postmenopausal women on hyaluronic acid and Biosaccharide Gum-1 vaginal gel
Authors: Caruso Salvatore , Pasqua Salvatore Di , Bambili Elisa , Palermo Gaia , Mazza Gabriele , Caruso Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Background: To evaluate the efficacy of daily vaginal gel containing hyaluronic acid (HA) and Biosaccharide Gum-1 (BG-1) on vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) and on sexual function and quality of life (QoL).
Methods: One hundred-four postmenopausal women with VVA were enrolled in the nonrandomized comparison cohort study. Of them, 50 women on HA/BG-1 participated in the study group and 54 women on lubricants/moisturizers on-demand as a control group.
The primary endpoint was the efficacy of the vaginal gel on VVA evaluated by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI) score. Secondary endpoints included sexual behavior by the self-administered female sexual function index (FSFI) questionnaire and quality of life (QoL) by the Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36).
Results: All symptoms of AVV improved after 12 weeks of treatment in women on HA/BG-1. The VMI, although improved at the 12-week follow-up compared to baseline, indicated a low estrogenic stimulation value. Sexual function improved significantly in women on HA/BG-1. Moreover, women reported a significant improvement in the somatic aspects of QoL. No benefits were obtained by the women in the study group.
Conclusions: Treatment with HA/BG-1 could be used in postmenopausal women who complain of vaginal dryness. The amelioration of VVA-related signs could improve sexual function and QoL.
Evaluation of Sedges and Nimblewill as Low-input, Shaded Lawns in Oklahoma, USA
Authors: Shokoya Godwin , Fontanier Charles , Martin Dennis L. , Dunn Bruce L.
Published: November 2022

Consumers desire low-input turfgrasses that have tolerance to both shade and drought stresses. Several sedges (Carex sp.) and nimblewill (Muhlenbergia schreberi) are native plants prevalent in dry woodland ecosystems in Oklahoma, USA, and may have potential as alternatives to conventional species in dry shaded turfgrass systems. To evaluate selected species for this purpose, a multilocation field trial was conducted in Stillwater and Perkins, OK. Four sedges [gray sedge (Carex amphibola), Leavenworth’s sedge (Carex leavenworthii), ‘Little Midge’ palm sedge (Carex muskingumensis), and Texas sedge (Carex texensis)] and nimblewill were evaluated as alternative turfs for the study. Alternative turfs were compared against two conventional turfgrasses [‘El Toro’ Japanese lawngrass (Zoysia japonica) and ‘Riley’s Super Sport’ bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon)]. The conventional turfgrasses outperformed each sedge and nimblewill in coverage and turf quality. Leavenworth’s sedge, gray sedge, and Texas sedge persisted well but did not spread quickly enough to achieve a dense canopy by the end of the 2-year trial. In contrast, nimblewill established quickly but declined in coverage over time. This study demonstrated some sedges and nimblewill can be established and maintained as a low-input turf in dry shade, but development of unique management practices is still required for acceptable performance.
Guidelines for improving laser targeting device in military
Authors: Padarev Nikolay
Published: November 2022

The invention of the laser can rightfully be considered one of the most significant discoveries of the 20th century. At the very beginning of the development of this technology, they already predicted a completely universal applicability, from the very beginning the prospect of solving various problems was visible, even though some tasks were not even visible on the horizon at that time. Monochromatic laser radiation can be obtained in principle at any wavelength, both in the form of a continuous wave with a certain frequency and in the form of short pulses lasting up to fractions of a femtosecond. Focusing on the studied sample, the laser beam is subjected to nonlinear optical effects, which allows researchers to perform spectroscopy by changing the frequency of light, as well as to perform coherent analysis of processes by controlling the polarization of the laser beam. Lasers were initially limited more to scientific research and military applications. The report examines the use of laser targeting. Today there are several areas in which the introduction of laser technology in the military industry follows: air, ground and underground location, communications, navigation systems, rifles, missile defense systems. In the report let’s present some of the applications of lasers, as well as protection of them
Mimo technology in multi-radar systems for detecting stealthy air objects
Authors: Lishchenko Vitaliy , Khudov Hennadii , Solomonenko Yuriy
Published: November 2022

The main trends in the development of air objects are analyzed (the means of air attack in the conduct of the Russian-Ukrainian war are taken as a basis). It has been established that the increase in the efficiency of radar surveillance of airspace is currently being carried out due to the quantitative increase in radar stations. In this paper, to improve the quality of detection of subtle air objects, the use of multi-position location (based on MIMO systems) is proposed. The principle of operation of a spatially coherent MIMO system is considered. The set of spaced positions of a spatially coherent multi-position system is considered as a single sparse antenna array. The possibility of increasing the resolution in planar coordinates in a MIMO system compared to the resolution of a single autonomous radar station is shown. The calculated ratio for increasing the resolution of such a system is given. Detection curves are given for the case of a spatially coherent MIMO radar system for the case when the radar stations of the system operate simultaneously in the transceiver mode. It has been established that the transition from an autonomous radar station to a MIMO system leads to a significant shift in detection characteristics to the left. It has been established that an increase in the number of radar stations in the system leads to a less significant shift in the detection characteristics to the left, which indicates a decrease in the effect. The radar systems proposed by MIMO can be built on the basis of existing radar stations of a predominantly new fleet. It is especially advantageous to use radar facilities based on phased antenna arrays for these purposes. It is advisable to use such systems in particularly dangerous areas to cover important military, government and critical infrastructure facilities
Innovative technology to solve the problems of automation of mining and geological works
Authors: Kaimov Aidarkhan , Aimbetov Nurzhan , Saurova Zarina
Published: November 2022

The object of research relates to the field of control systems for mining and transportation machinery in the development of solid mineral deposits in open-cut mining. The problem of reducing the cost of transporting 1 ton of rock mass and increasing the efficiency of these machines is solved. The article develops an expert system for the disposition of mining vehicles with a subsystem for the selection of their innovative appearance with the ability to control their operating parameters, taking into account the stochastic conditions of the developed sections of the rock. The mathematical model for the construction of the future appearance of a mining and transportation machine, based on its functional and economic evaluation, reduces to the solution of the problem of optimization of the generalized criterion of required efficiency. As an example of private indicators of their effectiveness in operation, there is an expert analysis of the evaluation of options for solutions, for example, structural-kinematic and operational parameters of these machines, etc. Innovative designs of a trough body of any size of the carrying capacity of single-rope and multi-rope steep elevators for highly profitable mining in quarries are justified unlimited values of their depth and annual productivity. In the proposed study, the values of the resistance forces to the destruction of a section of a rock mass, determined by analytical and experimental methods, are refined by finding the optimal Kalman coefficient, which increases the efficiency of the use of mining and transport machines. The proposed methods allow the development of innovative mining and transport machines with the ability to control their operating parameters taking into account the stochastic conditions of the mined rock section
Determination of the load of a composite brake pad of a wagon with wedge-dual wear
Authors: Lovska Alyona , Ravlyuk Vasyl , Elyazov Izrail
Published: November 2022

To improve the efficiency of the operation of freight rolling stock at the present stage of development of the railway industry, it is important to introduce its modern designs. At the same time, special attention should be paid to the rolling stock brakes, as the most important structural unit in terms of traffic safety. According to studies of the technical condition of the brake equipment of freight wagons, it has been established that one of the most damaged units is brake pads. As a result of operating load conditions, they experience uneven wear of the working surface – wedge-dual wear. A study of the load of a composite brake pad of a freight wagon with wedge-dual wear has been carried out. It has been established that the presence of such wear causes an additional load on its structure, including thermal. In this regard, not only the pad destruction, but also a violation of the safety of train traffic can occur.
The conducted studies will contribute to the creation of recommendations for managing the temperature effect on the brake pad, as well as improving the safety of train traffic and a significant reduction in operating costs.
Perceived-teacher presenteeism scale: A scale development study
Authors: USLUKAYA Alper , DEMİRTAŞ Zülfü , ALANOĞLU Müslim
Published: November 2022

This study aims to develop and test the reliability and validity of a multi-item teachers’ perceived presenteeism behavior scale. For this, first of all, a semi-structured interview form was applied to 57 teachers, an item pool was formed for the presenteeism scale with the data obtained, and the draft form of the scale was prepared in line with the expert opinions. Then, the draft scale form was applied to 382 teachers, and exploratory factor analysis was performed with the data obtained. As a result of the analysis, a three-dimensional scale structure consisting of 14 items was obtained. Data were collected from 303 teachers to confirm this structure, and the three-factors scale structure was confirmed based on acceptable fit values with confirmatory factor analysis. It was determined that the validated second-order three-factor model provided convergent and discriminant validity criteria. The measurement invariance of the scale according to gender, marital status, and age groups was tested, and it was observed that the same structure was measured in different groups. Cronbach Alpha internal consistency coefficient and composite reliability values showed that sufficient reliability values were achieved for the scale. Finally, the test-retest performed to test its stability showed that the scale was stable. Thus, it was concluded that the scale is valid and reliable with sufficient conditions to measure the teachers' perceptions of presenteeism.
An Investigation of Data Mining Classification Methods in Classifying Students According to 2018 PISA Reading Scores
Authors: BÜYÜKATAK Emrah , ANIL Duygu
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this research was to determine classification accuracy of the factors affecting the success of students' reading skills based on PISA 2018 data by using Artificial Neural Networks, Decision Trees, K-Nearest Neighbor, and Naive Bayes data mining classification methods and to examine the general characteristics of success groups. In the research, 6890 student surveys of PISA 2018 were used. Firstly, missing data were examined and completed. Secondly, 24 index variables thought to affect the success of students' reading skills were determined by examining the related literature, PISA 2018 Technical Report, and PISA 2018 data. Thirdly, considering the sub-classification problem, the students were scaled in two categories as “Successful” and “Unsuccessful” according to the scores of PISA 2018 reading skills achievement test. Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS MODELER program. At the end of the research, it was determined that Decision Trees C5.0 algorithm had the highest classification rate with 89.6%, the QUEST algorithm had the lowest classification rate with 75%, and four clusters were obtained proportionally close to each other in Two-Step Clustering analysis method to examine the general characteristics according to the success scores. It can be said that the data sets are suitable for clustering since the Silhouette Coefficient, which is calculated as 0.1 in clustering analyses, is greater than 0. It can be concluded that according to achievement scores, all data mining methods can be used to classify students since these models make accurate classification beyond chance.
Nascent Nanoformulations as an Insight into the Limitations of the
Conventional Systemic Antifungal Therapies
Authors: Jain Subheet Kumar , Kaur Manjot , Shivgotra Riya , Bhardwaj Nitish , Saini Shagun , Thakur Shubham
Published: November 2022

More than 150 million people have significant fungal diseases that greatly impact health care and economic expenditures. The expansion of systemic fungal infections and invasive mycoses is being driven by an increase in the number of immunocompromised patients and the recent COVID-19 patients, especially severely ill. There have been numerous cases of fungal infections linked to COVID-19, with pulmonary aspergillosis dominating at first but with the subsequent ap-pearance of mucormycosis, candidiasis, and endemic mycoses. Candida spp. is the most frequent pathogen, with approximately 1 billion infections yearly, among other species causing the most prevalent invasive fungal infections. The importance of recognizing the epidemiological shifts of invasive fungal infections in patient care cannot be overstated. Despite the enormous antifungal therapies available, these infections are difficult to diagnose and cause high morbidity and mortality rates. Treatment choices for systemic fungal infections are severely limited due to the limitations of conventional therapy effectiveness and drug toxicities. So the researchers are still looking for novel therapeutic options, such as carrier-based approaches that are convenient and cost-effective with high and long-lasting fungal infection cure rates with reduced toxicities. The focus of this study is on summarizing the nanotechnology, immunotherapy methods and the drugs under clinical trials that have been employed in treatment as carrier-based antifungal formulations. Most of these have been reported to be promising strategies with broad-spectrum antifungal action and the potential to overcome antibiotic resistance mechanisms. We speculate that this review summarized the current knowledge to its best that will help the future developments of new antifungal therapies.
Current Drug Delivery Strategies for Buccal Cavity Ailments using Mouth
Dissolving Wafer Technology: A Comprehensive Review on the Present
State of the Art
Authors: Jana Bani Kumar , Singh Mohini , Dutta Rajat Subhra , Mazumder Bhaskar
Published: November 2022

Background:

Mouth-dissolving wafer is polymer-based matrice that incorporates various
pharmaceutical agents for oral drug delivery. This polymeric wafer is ingenious in the way that it needs
not be administered with water, like in conventional tablet dosage form. It has better compliance among
the pediatric and geriatric groups owing to its ease of administration.

Objective:

The polymeric wafer dissolves quickly in the oral cavity and is highly effective for a targeted
local effect in buccal-specific ailments. It is a safe, effective, and versatile drug delivery carrier for a
range of drugs used to treat a plethora of oral cavity-specific ailments that inflict common people, like
thrush, canker sores, periodontal disease, benign oral cavity tumors, buccal neoplasm, and malignancies.
This review paper focuses thoroughly on the present state of the art in mouth-dissolving wafer
technology for buccal drug delivery and targeting. Moreover, we have also addressed present-time limitations
associated with wafer technology to aid researchers in future developments in the arena of buccal
drug delivery.

Conclusion:

This dynamic novel formulation has tremendous future implications for designing drug
delivery systems to target pernicious ailments and diseases specific to the buccal mucosa. In a nutshell,
this review paper aims to summarize the present state of the art in buccal targeted drug delivery.
Ultramicronized N-palmitoylethanolamine Contributes to Morphine
Efficacy Against Neuropathic Pain: Implication of Mast Cells and Glia
Authors: Micheli Laura , Lucarini Elena , Nobili Stefania , Bartolucci Gianluca , Pallecchi Marco , Toti Alessandra , Ferrara Valentina , Ciampi Clara , Ghelardini Carla , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo
Published: November 2022

Background::

In the current management of neuropathic pain, in addition to antidepressants
and anticonvulsants, the use of opioids is wide, despite their related and well-known issues.

Objective::

N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA), a natural fatty-acid ethanolamide whose anti-inflammatory,
neuroprotective, immune-modulating and anti-hyperalgesic activities are known, represents a promising
candidate to modulate and/or potentiate the action of opioids.

Methods::

This study was designed to evaluate if the preemptive and morphine concomitant administration
of ultramicronized PEA, according to fixed or increasing doses of both compounds, delays
the onset of morphine tolerance and improves its analgesic efficacy in the chronic constriction injury
(CCI) model of neuropathic pain in rats.

Results::

Behavioral experiments showed that the preemptive and co-administration of ultramicronized
PEA significantly decreased the effective dose of morphine and delayed the onset of morphine tolerance.
The activation of spinal microglia and astrocytes, commonly occurring both on opioid treatment and neuropathic
pain, was investigated through GFAP and Iba-1 immunofluorescence. Both biomarkers were
found to be increased in CCI untreated or morphine treated animals in a PEA-sensitive manner. The increased
density of endoneural mast cells within the sciatic nerve of morphine-treated and untreated CCI
rats was significantly reduced by ultramicronized PEA. The decrease of mast cell degranulation, evaluated
in terms of reduced plasma levels of histamine and N-methyl-histamine metabolite, was mainly
observed at intermediate-high doses of ultramicronized PEA, with or without morphine.

Conclusion::

Overall, these results show that the administration of ultramicronized PEA in CCI rats
according to the study design fully fulfilled the hypotheses of this study.
Pharmacological and Pathological Relevance of S100 Proteins in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Goswami Deepali , Anuradha Urati , Angati Anok , Kumari Nisha , Singh Rakesh Kumar
Published: November 2022

The S100 protein is one of the calcium-binding proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. S100 proteins are expressed in the central nervous system by oligodendrocytes, astrocytes and neurons during both normal and disease conditions. Although amyloid-beta aggregation and hyperphosphorylated tau plaques are the main pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease, the S100 protein family is closely associated with neuroinflammation in several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in addition to various types of cancer and other brain diseases. This review aims to present the key role of S100 proteins and their different relevant isoforms, along with the various approaches used for the regulation of these proteins in several neurodegenerative disorders.
Athletes’ Psycho-physical Training and Cognitive Restructuring Module To Enhance University-athlete Students’ Well-being
Authors: Motevalli Saeid , Sulaiman Tajularipin , Wong Kai Yan , Jaafar Wan Marzuki Wan
Published: November 2022

Many health practices demonstrate that some integrative approaches could be beneficial in fostering self-care and well-being for a healthy lifestyle. Athletes are exposed to elevated rates of stress and low control of performance during the competition, which puts them at increased risk for a range of mental health problems and poor well-being. Despite the psychological risks associated with their competitive circumstances, limited attention has been given to identifying the psycho-physical and cognitive strategies contributing to the well being of university athletes’ The integration of psycho-physical and cognitive restructuring may be an effective technique for increasing the well being and performance ofuniversity athletes’ . Therefore, in this module, the researchers have included numerous elements related to physical training, psychological training and cognitive restructuring in order to improve university student-athlete to further construct positive self-esteem, confidence, expectations, good performance and also enhance monitoring and control over the internal and external environment in which lead to having a beneficial influence on anxiety, stress or tension that may experience in an extreme situation such as a sports competition. We discuss the benefits of this module and provide practical strategies and techniques to implement for sports psychologists, counselors, and educational authorities. This module urges university athletes to create mental health, well-being awareness and early cognitive prevention strategies to improve the educational environment and contribute to the athletes’ performance.
Examining the Influence of Self-compassion Education and Training Upon Parents and Families When Caring for their Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Othman Shwikar , Steen Mary , Wepa Dianne , McKellar Lois
Published: November 2022

Background:

It is well-recognized that early parenting significantly influences the health and well-being of children. However, many parents struggle with the daily demands of being a parent and feel overwhelmed and exhausted psychologically and physically. Encouraging self-care practices is essential for parents, and self-compassion may be a potential strategy to utilize.

Objectives:

The review aims to assess the influence and impact of providing self-compassion education for parents and families when caring for their children.

Methods:

This systematic review utilized Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. A three-stage search approach was undertaken that included seven electronic databases, registries and websites. These databases are Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Emcare, Cochrane library, Scopus, and ProQuest. The included studies were appraised using the standardized critical appraisal instruments for evidence of effectiveness developed by JBI.

Results:

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, the studies confirmed improved psychological well-being, and higher levels of self-compassion, kindness towards oneself and others, and mindfulness were reported. In addition, there were improvements in psychological well-being, decreased parental distress and perceived distress, lower levels of anxiety, and avoidance of negative experiences.

Conclusion:

The findings provide evidence to guide further research on developing, designing, facilitating, and evaluating self-compassion education programs and workshops for parents and families.

PROSPERO registration

This systematic review title is registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews: CRD42021225021.
Pengaruh Zat Pengatur Tumbuh Tanaman GA3, IAA, dan Sitokinin Terhadap Pematahan Dormansi pada Bawang Putih (Allium sativum L.)
Authors: Af St Najmiah , Maghfoer Moch Dawam , Sandrakirana Ratih
Published: November 2022

Bawang putih (Allium sativum L.) banyak digunakan oleh masyarakat di Indonesia sebagai bumbu masakan serta digunakan sebagai pengobatan karena bawang putih mengandung senyawa antibiotik. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui perbandingan penggunaan jenis hormon (GA3¬, IAA, dan Sitokinin) dengan konsentrasi yang berbeda terhadap pematahan dormansi dan pola pertumbuhan pada bawang putih. Penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) dengan 10 perlakuan yang diulang 3 kali. Perlakuan tersebut adalah : P0 (kontrol (tanpa pemberian ZPT)); P1 (Perendaman GA₃ dengan konsentrasi 125 ppm); P2 (Perendaman GA₃ dengan konsentrasi 250 ppm); P3 (Perendaman GA₃ dengan konsentrasi 375 ppm); P4 (Perendaman IAA dengan konsentrasi 125 ppm); P5 (Perendaman IAA dengan konsentrasi 250 ppm); P6 (Perendaman IAA dengan konsentrasi 375 ppm); P7 (Perendaman Sitokinin dengan konsentrasi 125 ppm); P8 (Perendaman Sitokinin dengan konsentrasi 250 ppm); P9 (Perendaman Sitokinin dengan konsentrasi 375 ppm). Penggunaan ZPT mampu mematahkan dormansi pada bawang putih. Perlakuan perendaman GA₃ dengan konsentrasi 375 ppm (P3) dan perendaman Sitokinin dengan konsentrasi 375 ppm (P9) memiliki kemampuan yang tertinggi untuk meningkatkan diameter batang, panjang tanaman, jumlah daun, presentase tumbuh tanaman dan berat segar tanaman dibandingkan tanpa ZPT dan IAA. Perlakuan perendaman GA₃ dengan konsentrasi 375 ppm (P3) menunjukkan berat kering tanaman yang lebih besar dibandingkan tanpa ZPT, IAA, dan Sitokinin
Potensi Produksi dan Kualitas Benih 5 Genotipe Kacang Bambara (Vigna subtterranea L. Verdc) dengan Sistem Budidaya Organik dan Anorganik
Authors: Maytawanti Rury , Damanhuri Damanhuri
Published: November 2022

Kacang Bambara (Vigna subterranea L. Verdcourt) merupakah salah satu tanaman legum yang masih belum banyak dibudidayakan di Indonesia. Kacang bambara memiliki keragaman yang tinggi dan belum diketahui karakterisitiknya. Mutu benih akan berpengaruh terhadap potensi produksi yang dihasilkan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui potensi produksi dan kualitas benih pada 5 genotipe kacang bambara pada dua sistem budidaya. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Desa Sukorejo, Kabupaten Malang. Kegiatan penelitian dimulai dari bulan Desember 2021 hingga Mei 2022. Genotipe kacang bambara yang digunakan yaitu LLB, SS 3.4.2, PWbg 5.2.1, JLB 1 dan GSG 1.5. Rancangan yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah Split Plot dengan tiga ulangan. Hasil pengamatan didapatkan bahwa interaksi antara genotipe dan sistem budidaya nyata terhadap jumlah daun, bobot polong basah, jumlah polong tunggal, jumlah polong ganda, bobot 100 butir. Pengaruh sistem budidaya tidak menunjukkan beda nyata pada semua variabel pengamatan. Pengaruh genotipe nyata terhadap tinggi tanaman, umur berbunga, umur panen, bobot kering polong, jumlah polong total, panjang polong, lebar polong dan diameter polong. Pada genotipe yang sama, pengaruh sistem budidaya tidak menunjukkan adanya beda nyata terhadap produksi benih. Genotipe LLB dan SS 3.4.2 mempunyai potensi produksi benih tinggi. Pada karakter kualitatif, keragaman yang paling tinggi adalah warna dasar biji kacang bambara.
Composición y estructura espacial de cinco asociaciones de bosques de Pinus durangensis
Authors: Graciano-Ávila Gabriel , Alanís-Rodríguez Eduardo , Rubio-Camacho Ernesto A. , Valdecantos-Dema Alejandro , Aguirre-Calderón Oscar A. , González-Tagle Marco A. , Treviño-Garza Eduardo Javier , Corral-Rivas José Javier , Mora-Olivo Arturo
Published: November 2022

La estructura espacial refleja el patrón de disposición de los árboles sobre el terreno y es un elemento básico para entender la dinámica de los ecosistemas forestales. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue evaluar las características estructurales bivariadas de cinco asociaciones diferentes de bosques de Pinus durangensis, identificando las similitudes y diferencias en la distribución bivariada de uniformidad de ángulos, dominancia y mezcla. Los datos provienen de cinco sitios cuadrados con superficie de 2500 m2, establecidos cada uno en diferentes bosques de P. durangensis en la Sierra Madre Occidental. Para cada sitio se determinó altura promedio, diámetro promedio y cobertura de copa, así como índices de mezcla de especies, uniformidad de ángulos y dominancia. Los índices se combinaron dos a dos para obtener tres distribuciones bivariantes. El bosque puro de P. durangensis presentó los individuos con mayor altura, mientras que el mayor diámetro fue para la asociación con P. teocote. El índice de mezcla (Mi) indica que solo en el bosque puro existe una baja mezcla de especies. El índice de uniformidad de ángulos (Wi) muestra que los árboles, de manera general, tienen una distribución aleatoria. Los valores de dominancia (Ui) muestran que en todos los sitios existen todas las clases sociales representadas de manera equitativa. Los índices y sus combinaciones describen adecuadamente la distribución espacial de los árboles y su relación con sus vecinos más cercanos. La información obtenida de la combinación de las variables estructurales contribuye a mejorar la comprensión de la estructura espacial del bosque y contribuye a la regulación de la intensidad de corta y garantizar una gestión sostenible.
Advantages of a Training Course for Surgical Planning in Virtual Reality for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Crossover Study
Authors: Ulbrich Max , Van den Bosch Vincent , Bönsch Andrea , Gruber Lennart Johannes , Ooms Mark , Melchior Claire , Motmaen Ila , Wilpert Caroline , Rashad Ashkan , Kuhlen Torsten Wolfgang , Hölzle Frank , Puladi Behrus
Published: November 2022

Background

As an integral part of computer-assisted surgery, virtual surgical planning (VSP) leads to significantly better surgery results, such as for oral and maxillofacial reconstruction with microvascular grafts of the fibula or iliac crest. It is performed on a 2D computer desktop screen (DS) based on preoperative medical imaging. However, in this environment, VSP is associated with shortcomings, such as a time-consuming planning process and the requirement of a learning process. Therefore, a virtual reality (VR)–based VSP application has great potential to reduce or even overcome these shortcomings due to the benefits of visuospatial vision, bimanual interaction, and full immersion. However, the efficacy of such a VR environment has not yet been investigated.

Objective

This study aimed to demonstrate the possible advantages of a VR environment through a substep of VSP, specifically the segmentation of the fibula (calf bone) and os coxae (hip bone), by conducting a training course in both DS and VR environments and comparing the results.

Methods

During the training course, 6 novices were taught how to use a software application in a DS environment (3D Slicer) and in a VR environment (Elucis) for the segmentation of the fibula and os coxae, and they were asked to carry out the maneuvers as accurately and quickly as possible. Overall, 13 fibula and 13 os coxae were segmented for each participant in both methods (VR and DS), resulting in 156 different models (78 fibula and 78 os coxae) per method (VR and DS) and 312 models in total. The individual learning processes in both environments were compared using objective criteria (time and segmentation performance) and self-reported questionnaires. The models resulting from the segmentation were compared mathematically (Hausdorff distance and Dice coefficient) and evaluated by 2 experienced radiologists in a blinded manner.

Results

A much faster learning curve was observed for the VR environment than the DS environment (β=.86 vs β=.25). This nearly doubled the segmentation speed (cm3/min) by the end of training, leading to a shorter time (P<.001) to reach a qualitative result. However, there was no qualitative difference between the models for VR and DS (P=.99). The VR environment was perceived by participants as more intuitive and less exhausting, and was favored over the DS environment.

Conclusions

The more rapid learning process and the ability to work faster in the VR environment could save time and reduce the VSP workload, providing certain advantages over the DS environment.