bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of genital Ureaplasma infection versus Mycoplasma infection on preterm delivery
Authors:   ”Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Mehedintu Claudia , Ionescu Oana Maria ,   ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Carp-Veliscu Andreea ,   ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Conci Stelian ,   ”Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Rotaru Ana ,   ”Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Edu Antoine ,   ”Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Plotogea Mihaela ,   ”Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Ispas Alexandru ,   ”Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Ionescu Gabriela ,   ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: June 2022

Genital Mycoplasma spp. and Ureaplasma spp. infection is one of the most common infections in pregnancy. Most often the infection is latent and only late effects can be observed. During pregnancy, genital tract colonization with those germs is associated with poor obstetrical outcome, the most important being preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and preterm birth. Also, the neonatal morbidity is not neglectable. The particularity of the subject is that although the pregnancy's gold standard treatment is with Azithromycin, there were reported many cases of antibiotic resistance. The main purpose of this article is to make a literature review in which to compare the impact of genital Mycoplasma spp. infection vs. Ureaplasma spp. infection on preterm delivery. The analysis was limited to articles written in English and published between March 2016 and August 2020 on PubMed, NCBI and medical journals. This literature review shows the importance of gynecological screening, not only for Ureaplasma spp. and Mycoplasma spp., but for the entire abnormal vaginal flora as well, especially during pregnancy. Although both germs colonize the genital tract, Ureaplasma spp. has to be dreaded, its involvement in preterm delivery being a certainty.
Benefits and risks of hormonal replacement therapy
Authors:   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Mehedintu Claudia ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Carp-Veliscu Andreea ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Plotogea Mihaela ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Edu Antoine ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Petca Aida ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Dumitrascu Mihai ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Sandru Florica ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Antonovici Marina Rodica ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
Published: June 2022

Menopause, defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation resulting from the loss of the ovarian function, has gradually become a fundamental health concern. Menopause hormonal replacement therapies (HRT) were initially developed with the purpose to alleviate the estrogen deficiency induced symptoms. Currently, HRT is approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Association) for four indications: bothersome vasomotor symptoms (VMS); prevention of bone loss; hypoestrogenism caused by hypogonadism, castration, or premature ovarian failure and genitourinary symptoms. For patients younger than 60 years or within the first 10 years from menopause onset and without contraindications, the benefit-risk ratio should be favorable for treatment of VMS and for preventing bone loss and related fractures. For women who initiate HRT more than 10 / 20 years from menopause onset (or aged 60 years or older), the benefit-risk balance seems to be less favorable than for younger patients because of greater absolute risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke and VTE. Even though the management of menopausal symptoms through pharmacological and cognitive-behavioral therapy improves quality of life of affected women in the short term, there is a need for the development of strategies to modify menopausal health risks, in the long term.
Bacterial vaginosis
Authors:   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Melestean-Bratu Madalina-Ioana , Antonovici Marina ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, Ispas Alexandru ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Edu Antoine ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Dumitrascu Mihai ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Sandru Florica ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Carp-Veliscu Andreea ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Andreescu Cristina Veronica ,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Mehedintu Claudia ,   “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: June 2022

Bacterial vaginosis is an important public health issue, affecting women worldwide. Despite its increased incidence, the etiology is yet unclear. In all symptomatic cases, treatment must be started immediately to cure this condition that favors the acquirement of sexually transmitted diseases. Symptomatic pregnant women should always be treated, and treatment regimens are the same for pregnant and non-pregnant women. Possible complications of this disease include infertility, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, premature rupture of membranes, premature birth, intra-amniotic infections and postpartum endometritis.
A solidariedade securitária como um caminho protetivo ao meio ambiente
Authors: Lobo Arthur Mendes , Dias Wagner Inácio Freitas
Published: June 2022

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo analisar o contrato de seguro de responsabilidade civil por poluição e sua evolução no Brasil. Abordamos alguns pontos sobre o objeto, forma e condições de validade e eficácia do referido contrato. Analisamos, ainda, a sua função social, discorrendo sobre a sua utilidade como instrumento privado de controle ambiental. Enfocamos as principais técnicas de pulverização de riscos como resseguro, retrocessão, cosseguro e pools.
Revisitando a Súmula n. 465 do Superior Tribunal de Justiça
Authors: Correia Atalá
Published: June 2022

O presente artigo dispõe-se a avaliar as origens, o alcance e a atualidade do enunciado n. 465 da Súmula de jurisprudência do Superior Tribunal de Justiça (STJ). Ao cuidar de sinistros que recaem sobre automóveis transferidos a terceiros, o STJ concluiu que “ressalvada a hipótese de efetivo agravamento do risco, a seguradora não se exime do dever de indenizar em razão da transferência do veículo sem a sua prévia comunicação”. Dentro do seu propósito, o artigo toma em perspectiva os efeitos do tempo sobre o contrato, com agravamento ou diminuição de riscos. Avalia-se, então, a cessão do contrato de seguro, suas hipóteses e consequências. Esse panorama permitirá fazer uma avaliação crítica do referido enunciado, à luz de legislação estrangeira e propostas de reformas legislativas. Ao final, propõe-se a revisão das conclusões a que chegou o STJ.
Reflexões a respeito do seguro garantia e da nova Lei de Licitações
Authors: Goldberg Ilan
Published: June 2022

O presente artigo busca traçar reflexões acerca do impacto da nova lei de licitações e as mudanças que ela desencadeia na causa do contrato de seguro garantia. Para tanto, analisam-se, comparativamente, os modelos estadunidense  e brasileiro de performance bond, pontuando as principais inovações trazidas pela Lei nº. 14.133/2021.
Especial referencia a la delimitación del riesgo en los seguros de responsabilidad civil y acción directa
Authors: Veiga Copo Abel B.
Published: June 2022

Se busca proteger el riesgo del responsable, no al tercero, aunque por el camino este se vea resarcido cual si de un seguro de accidentes a favor de las víctimas se tratare. Si el daño lo causa un tercero, tampoco podrá el asegurado reclamar de su propia compañía de seguros en base a su seguro de responsabilidad civil, sino será en la aseguradora del tercero, o en su caso, en otros seguros que tenga concertados, como sería uno de accidentes o de daños a las cosas. Como bien se ha señalado, el problema surge en aquellos ámbitos en los que muchas veces no está claro si el daño causado por el asegurado proviene de un incumplimiento contractual o se trata de un daño extracontractual, y en los que la póliza se limita simplemente a expresar el ámbito de cobertura pero sin deslindar el alcance de la misma.
Nova regulação dos seguros de responsabilidade civil no Brasil e os seguros para riscos cibernéticos
Authors: Carlini Angélica
Published: June 2022

O artigo trata da nova regulação de seguros de responsabilidade civil no Brasil, das peculiaridades de seguros de responsabilidade civil para riscos cibernéticos e da relevância desse contrato como instrumento de prevenção, segurança e gerenciamento de crise em casos de danos materiais e imateriais decorrentes de ataques cibernéticos e vazamento de dados.
Prevalence and eradication efficacy of Helicobacter pylori infection in children in the Mekong delta, Vietnam: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tran Duc Long , Nguyen Trung Kien , Nguyen Thi Thu Cuc , Le Thi Thuy Loan , Tran Cong Ly , Le Thi Gai , Pham Duy Toan , Nguyen Minh Phuong
Published: June 2022

Background: Worldwide, Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection in children with peptic ulcer and/or gastritis (PUG) is increasingly common. In Vietnam, clinical symptoms of HP infection in PUG children are often non-specific, and treatment regimens currently have a low success rate.

Objective: This study determined the HP infection prevalence, its clinical and endoscopic findings, and its associated factors. Additionally, the efficiencies of HP treatment regimens in PUG children were also evaluated.

Design and setting: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 140 pediatric patients diagnosed with PUG at Can Tho Children’s Hospital from 2017–2019.

Results: The prevalence of HP infection in PUG children was 46.4%. A significant association was found between HP infection and patient possessing a family history of HP infection (aOR: 2.35 (1.1–4.76). Symptoms of abdominal pain accounted for the highest rate of 88.6%, followed by vomiting, heartburn, epigastric burning, and gastric bleeding (57.9%, 36.4%, 22.9%, and 13.6%, respectively). Endoscopic findings denoted that inflammatory lesions accounted for 85% and ulcers accounted for 15%. The successful HP eradication rate using the PAM regimen (Proton pump inhibitor/amoxicillin/metronidazole) was 51.8%, with 13.6% of PUG children encountering side effects.

Conclusion: PUG children have a high rate of HP infection. Clinical symptoms are often non-specific, in which abdominal pain is the most common symptom. The success of HP eradication by the standard guideline of the Vietnam Ministry of Health is quite low. Thus, critical adjustments in the regimens are necessary.
Reconstruction of initial heat distribution via Green function method
Authors: Fang Xiaoping , Deng Youjun , Zhang Zaiyun
Published: June 2022

In this paper, layer potential techniques are investigated for solving the thermal diffusion problem. We construct the Green function to get the analytic solution. Moreover, by combining Fourier transform some attractive relation between initial heat distribution and the final observation is obtained. Finally iteration scheme is developed to solve the inverse heat conduction problem and convergence results are presented.
Book-tax differences e rating: análise em períodos pré e pós-IFRS
Authors: Barbosa Josilene da Silva , De Souza Costa Patricia
Published: June 2022

O estudo tem como objetivo verificar a relação entre a Book-Tax Differences (BTD) e as notas de rating em períodos pré e pós adoção das International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). A amostra é composta por 3.737 observações de companhias abertas de 54 países, compreendendo o período de 2001 a 2016. Por meio de regressão logística são testados todos os tipos de BTD (total, positiva, negativa, anormal, normal, permanente e temporária), em valores nominais e segregados por quintis altos e baixos. Os resultados sugerem que a BTD tem conteúdo informacional útil às agências de rating em suas avaliações de risco de crédito. Especificamente, no período pré-IFRSIFRS, menor BTD não gera efeitos sobre o rating, sugerindo que as agências de rating consideravam, nesse período, que maior conformidade entre o lucro contábil e tributável não ofereceria risco para os investidores. A BTD temporária, após a adoção das IFRS, apresentou relação negativa com o rating, implicando nas agências de rating penalizando as empresas com maior BTD temporária. Isso pode ocorrer devido às maiores brechas que as escolhas contábeis, inerentes às IFRS, podem gerar quanto ao gerenciamento de resultado, o que pode representar maior risco para às agências de rating na identificação da parcela discricionária da BTD. Os resultados deste estudo contribuem com o debate sobre escolhas contábeis e conformidade financeira e fiscal, na medida em que mostra que um usuário da informação contábil (agências de rating) penalizam as empresas que possuem maior BTD temporária por considerarem que estas podem ser derivadas de maior gerenciamento de resultado e, por isso, podem representar risco para o investidor.
Influência dos controles informais na confiança organizacional: a diferença entre os gêneros persiste?
Authors: Monteiro Januário José , Silva Gabriel Figueiredo da , Lunkes Rogério João
Published: June 2022

O presente estudo teve por objetivo investigar a influência dos controles informais na confiança organizacional, moderado pelo gênero. A amostra final foi de 124 gestores de empresas brasileiras cadastradas na B3 (Brasil Bolsa Balcão). Para a análise dos dados da pesquisa foi aplicada a técnica de Modelagem de Equações Estruturais no SmartPLS. Os resultados confirmaram a influência positiva e significativa dos controles culturais e dos controles de pessoal na confiança organizacional. Os resultados mostraram ainda que mulheres e homens possuem uma percepção positiva acerca da influência dos controles informais na confiança organizacional, porém, não foi constatado diferença significativa entre as percepções. Esses resultados sugerem que os controles informais desempenham um papel importante na criação de um ambiente de trabalho que permite maior apego dos gestores à organização.
Spectrum of weak model sets with Borel windows
Authors: Keller Gerhard , Richard Christoph , Strungaru Nicolae
Published: June 2022

Consider the extended hull of a weak model set together with its natural shift action. Equip the extended hull with the Mirsky measure, which is a certain natural pattern frequency measure. It is known that the extended hull is a measure-theoretic factor of some group rotation, which is called the underlying torus. Among other results, in the articlePeriods and factors of weak model sets, we showed that the extended hull is isomorphic to a factor group of the torus, where certain periods of the window of the weak model set have been factored out. This was proved for weak model sets having a compact window. In this note, we argue that the same results hold for arbitrary measurable and relatively compact windows. Our arguments crucially rely on Moody’s work on uniform distribution in model sets. We also discuss implications for the diffraction of such weak model sets and discuss a new class of examples which are generic for the Mirsky measure.
Bacteriological assessment of some frozen fishes sold at Ator market in Ikot Ekpene metropolis
Authors: Ekanem J. O. , Udoma I. G.
Published: June 2022

This research was carried out to assess the microbiological quality of frozen fishes sold at Ator market in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. Thirty fish samples from three species of fish were collected from different retailers at the market. Samples were prepared from the intestine the gills, and the skin. The microbial load of the different samples was determined using appropriate media. Total viable bacterial counts ranged between 3.02×104 to 52.0×104 cfu/g, total coliforms ranged between 9.32×104 to 47.4×104 cfu/g, total vibrio count ranged from 0.52×104 to 7.85×104 cfu/g while the total Staphylococcal counts ranged from 2.08×104 to 7.75×104 cfu/g. It was observed from the study that the skin and the intestines harboured more bacteria growth than the gills. The microbial load obtained in this study exceeds the international acceptable limit of ≤ 1.0 × 102 cfu/g for frozen products thus indicating the poor sanitary and poor hygienic conditions of the markets where these fishes are sold or countries where they were imported, from. It is recommended that proper hygienic condition should be maintained during fish production, handling, storage, retailing and processing. Also, fish should be subjected to adequate cooking before consumption.
Application of GIS in modelling real time population exposure to PM2.5
Authors: Mohammad Zubairu , Abubakar Jabir
Published: June 2022

Air pollution has caused many deaths globally across all age groups with most of the deaths attributed to PM2.5 which is an extremely small sized particulate matter that can travels deep in to the lungs, hit the blood stream and affect the respiratory track. This study has estimated Southampton spatiotemporal population exposure to air pollution using the Surface builder (SB) 24/7 model and a modelled air pollution data from DEFRA with a specific focus on the variation in the level of exposure to PM 2.5 by different population age groups, using GIS. After modeling the population exposure the resulted map was resampled to 200m by 200m to match the spatial resolution of the output population distribution model. The result shows that only few areas around the southern parts of the study areas (mostly residential areas with low commercial activities) have low concentration of PM2.5 pollutant. The results further identified a significant variation in the level of exposure by different population age groups with the population age group between the age of 18 to 64 (non-students) having the highest level of exposure at both 2am (55% of the exposed population) and 2pm (52%). On the other hand, the age group with the lowest level of exposure (2%), at both times of the day, is 16 to 17 years of age. 18 to 64 years old students in higher education (HE) and people of over 65 years of age are second subgroups highly exposed while the remaining age groups (0 to 4, 5 to 9, 10 to 15) show almost similar exposure (5 to 6%) in both times of the day. Overall, there is an incredible difference in exposure to PM2.5 by different age groups which reflects the level of spatial interaction by each age group.
Assessment of solid waste characterization in Keffi Iga, Nasarawa State, Nigeria in view of adopting biogas technology for solid waste management
Authors: Anthonia Abugu Nkechinyere , Stephen Oladeinde Olufemi , Ibilewa Dada
Published: June 2022

The assessment of solid waste characterization in Keffi Local Government Area in view of adopting biogas technology for solid waste management was carried out. This was achieved through assessment of the quantity of solid waste generation and the composition (organic and inorganic) in the study area. Materials used for data collection are weighing scale and waste bins. Stratified and systematic samplings were used to select households for data collection. The selected households’ waste generation were observed and weighed on daily basis for one week and average weight was calculated for each household to quantify the amount of waste generation and composition. Solid waste generation per household per day in Keffi Local government area ranged from 0.9 Kg to 1.5Kg with mean value of 1.26Kg. There was a significant different (F>P@0.05) in the quantity of solid waste generation among the ten wards. Though, solid wastes in Keffi consist of diverse materials from both raw materials mostly farm/animal residues and manufactured goods, it has higher organic (71.79%) than inorganic (28.21%) components. Thus, it was concluded that adoption of biogas technology for solid waste management in Keffi Local Government Area is feasible based on waste characterization of the area. Pilot demonstration of biogas production from organic waste was recommended
Impact of serum uric acid concentration on ultrasound scanned pregnant women in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Efanga Samuel Archibong , Akintomide Akintunde Olusijibomi , Okpara Henry Chima , Paulinus Samson Omini
Published: June 2022

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of serum uric acid elevation on the fetus and to determine the existence of a connection between hyperuricemia and gestational hyperten sion (pre-eclampsia).Materials and method: A prospective cross-sectional case-controlled ultrasound scan study was done on 200 singleton pregnant women between 20 to 40 weeks gestational age in a 12-month period. The age range for the cases and control were from 15 to 39 years. Uric acid concentration in the serum obtained from all the women was analyzed utilizing manual colorimetric method. Pearson’s correlation and the student t-tests were used to analyze the data obtained.Results: Maternal serum uric acid had negative correlation with fetal heart rate (FHR) (p = 0.025) and a positive correlation with estimated gestational age (EGA) (p = 0.040) including estimated fetal weight EFW (p = 0.046). A significant positive correlation between uric acid and proteinuria (p = 0.009) was observed. Uric acid was higher in pre-eclamptics than gestational hypertensives (8.528±2.679 mg/dl versus 6.542±1.746 mg/dl, p = 0.016). Also, uric acid in pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) was higher than the normotensives (7.535±2.165 mg/dl versus 5.437±1.636 mg/dl).Conclusion: Maternal hyperuricemia predisposes to fetal bradycardia which may have possibly led to the two fetal demise recorded in the present study. Increased EFW with hyperuricemia may be due to higher body mass index (BMI) of the subjects. Therefore, high serum uric acid has a significant role in foretelling the appearance of preeclampsia but not gestational hypertension.
Aqueous beetroot dye as an alternative to haematoxylin and eosin in the diagnosis of breast tumours
Authors: Udonkang Mfoniso , Ene Collins , Archibong Anietie , Egbe Agala , Inyang Imeobong
Published: June 2022

Breast tumours are heterogeneous diseases that result from changes in the cells and connective tissues of the breast. Different histological and histochemical stains have been employed to aid in the detection of these changes in routine diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of aqueous beetroot dye in the histochemical staining of breast tumours. Thirty breast tumour blocks from the Histopathology Laboratory of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar were retrieved, sectioned and stained with Cole’s haematoxylin and eosin and aqueous beetroot. The histological staining and 3-D image characteristics were analysed. The histological types of breast tumours were 7(23.3%) benign, of which 5(16.7%) were grade II benign lesion, 1(3.3%) was fibrocystic disease and 1(3.3%) was fibroadenoma. Among the 23(76.7%) malignant tumours, 15(56.7%) were grade 3, 3(10%) were B4 carcinomas and 3(10%) were B5 types. The sections stained with the red beetroot dye gave distinct metachromatic staining of the connective tissues of the cell membranes of the epithelial cells and other connective tissue cells, cytoskeleton, cytoplasm, basement membrane, and collagen fibres of the stroma in shades of green, purple, and black. The histological staining and 3-D image characteristics of the beetroot-stained benign and malignant tumours were similar to the haematoxylin and eosin-stained counterparts in terms of nuclear, cytoplasmic and connective tissue staining, 3-D surface plot features, and histological details (χ2=1.200; p=0.549). This finding has shown that betalain pigments in beetroot dye gave good metachromatic staining of epithelial and connective tissue changes in breast tumours. Beetroot dye and 3-D surface plots when combined can serve as a cost effective, health and environment-friendly alternative staining method to routine haematoxylin and eosin in diagnosis of breast tumours in low resource areas.
Propofol combined with hyperbaric oxygen improves the prognosis of spinal cord injury in rats via MAPK/ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Shen Ting , Wang Yan , Xu Feng , Man Jianyu , Zeng Juan
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To determine the effect of propofol combined with hyperbaric oxygen on spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats.Methods: A total of 36 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into sham group (S group), model group (M group), and propofol combined with hyperbaric oxygen group (P group). The Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) scoring system was adopted to evaluate the recovery of motor function in rats. Subsequently, levels of interleukin-18 (IL-18) and IL-1β in the spinal cord tissues were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Nerve cell apoptosis in the spinal cord tissues were examined via terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Finally, the protein expression levels of MAPK/ERK in the spinal cord tissues were assessed by Western blotting.Results: Compared with S group, BBB score in M group decreased at days 3 and 10 after treatment. While the BBB score of rats in P group was significantly increased (p < 0.05), compared with S group. The expressions of IL-18 and IL-1β were significantly lower in S and P groups than in M group (p < 0.05). S and P groups had lower apoptosis rate in the spinal cord tissues than in M group. Furthermore, Western blotting results showed that protein expressions of MAPK/ERK pathway were higher in S group and P group than in M group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Propofol, combined with hyperbaric oxygen improves the prognosis of SCI rats probably by regulating MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, thus paving way for the development of a potential treatment for the management of spinal cord injury in humans.
Effect of virgin coconut oil, lauric acid and myristic acid on serum and prostatic markers of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Okorie Claribel Chikwue , Onyekwelu Kenechukwu Chibuike , Okorie Chukwuemeka Ogueri , Ikekpeazu Joy Ebele , Ezeagu Edwin Ikechukwu
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of virgin coconut oil, lauric acid and myristic acid on serum and prostatic androgens in testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia.Methods: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was induced in the animals by repeated subcutaneous injection of testosterone propionate (5 mg/kg) at the inguinal region once a day for 28 days. Thereafter, BPH was treated for 56 days by oral administration of virgin coconut oil, lauric acid and myristic acid. Following the treatment period, the rats were sacrificed and blood samples were collected through cardiac puncture for biochemical analysis.Results: Virgin coconut oil, lauric acid and myristic acid led to a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in serum prostatic acid phosphatase (PAcP), prostate specific antigen (PSA) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, and also in prostatic DHT level.Conclusion: This study provides evidence that virgin coconut oil, lauric acid and myristic acid may be useful in the management of BPH because they exerted some anti-proliferative effects in the development and progression of BPH. Therefore, coconut may be a potential functional food for the management of BPH patients because it is rich in both lauric and myristic acid. However, further investigations, including clinical trials are required to buttress this.
Antimicrobial, anti-biofilm and cytotoxic properties of methallyl functionalized benzimidazolium-derived Ag(I)-Nheterocyclic carbene complexes
Authors: Celik Cem , Tutar Ugur , Sahin Neslihan , Ozturk Aysegül
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and cytotoxicity properties of methallyl substituted benzimidazolium-based, silver-bound N-heterocyclic carbene (Ag(I)-NHC) complexes, with respect to their potential to act as antimicrobial agents.Methods: The antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and cytotoxicity properties of the four complexes, the synthesis and characterization of which were carried out previously, were investigated. The antimicrobial properties were tested using the broth microdilution method, while their antibiofilm potential were determined by microtiter plate assay. The L-929 cell line was used for cytotoxic studies.Results: Strong antibiofilm and antimicrobial effects were produced by Ag(I)-NHC complexes. Compounds 2 and 3 showed potent activities against E. coli strain, with effects similar to that of positive control antibiotic, while compounds 1 and 4 exhibited antimicrobial activity at a concentration of 31.2 μg/mL. The compounds were effective against biofilms formed at concentrations in the range of 32 – 84 %, and degraded mature biofilms at a concentration range of 14 - 66 %. Compounds 1 and 2 did not significantly affect cell survival (p > 0.05), while compounds 3 and 4 significantly reduced cell survival, when compared with untreated cells in the control group (p < 0.001).Conclusion: This study may be one of the few studies on benzimidazolium-derived NHCs. The compounds which produced antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and cytotoxic properties in this study may be valuable and novel antimicrobial agents. Therefore, there is need for further in vivo and in vitro studies on these compounds.
Synthesis of new hybrid quinazoline compounds as antiproliferative agents for breast and colon cancer treatment
Authors: Ahmed Marwa F , Khalifa Amany S , Eed Emad M
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To evaluate newly synthesized fuoryl quinazoline derivatives for antitumor efficacy.Methods: Fuoryl quinazoline derivatives were synthesized and the structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized using standard techniques. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) technique was used to assess the anti-proliferative properties of the synthesized derivatives in vitro.Results: All quinazoline compounds displayed cytotoxic activity against breast and colon cancer cell lines to varying degrees. Compound IXa with acetohydrazide moiety was the most effective on MCF7 and HCT116 cell lines, with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 16.70 and 12.54 μM, respectively.Conclusion: N'-benzylidene-2-((2-(furan-2-yl) quinazolin-4-yl) oxy) acetohydrazide IXa showed the strongest anti-proliferative activity against MCF-7 and HCT116 human cancer cell lines.
Effect of combination of intravenous general anesthesia with propofol and fentanyl on surgery for aortic dissection repair in patients, and its influence on respiratory and circulatory functions
Authors: Bai Zhuoya , Kong Yuhua , Chen Lin , Wang Lingling
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of application of propofol in combination with fentanyl intravenous anesthesia in interventional surgery for aortic dissection repair, and its influence on respiratory and circulatory functions in patients.Methods: 100 patients undergoing interventional surgery for aortic dissection repair in Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang. China from  ovember 2018 to May 2020 were assigned equally to control group (CG) and study group (SG). CG received general anesthesia with propofol, while those in SG received combined intravenous general anesthesia with propofol and fentanyl. Time of anesthesia onset, postoperative awakening time, extubation time, respiratory function indicators and circulatory function indicators before operation (T0), and at intraoperative 1 h (T1), intraoperative 2 h (T2) and postoperative 2 h (T3); as well as postoperative VAS pain scores, and Ramsay sedation scores were determined and compared.Results: Compared with CG, SG had shorter anesthesia onset, shorter postoperative awakening and extubation times, and lower postoperative VAS pain and Ramsay sedation scores (p < 0.05). At T1, T2 and T3, indicators of respiratory and circulatory functions were better in SG than in CG (p > 0.05).Conclusion: Combined intravenous general anesthesia using propofol and fentanyl was more effective in interventional surgery for repair of aortic dissection, and it enhanced respiratory and circulatory functions in the patients.
Effects of microRNA-129-5p on hepatic fibrosis and primary hepatic stellate cell proliferation and migration in rats
Authors: Li Chen , Xu Yaohong , Lin Xiaofu
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effects and mechanism of microRNA (miR)-129-5p in hepatic fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell proliferation and migration in rats.Methods: Forty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control and model groups. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis was established in the model group. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe rat liver pathological sections. Sirius red staining was used to assess collagen deposition, while quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate miR- 129-5p expression in the rat liver during hepatic fibrosis. Three groups of rat primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) (miR-129-5p overexpression group, negative control lentivirus group and blank control group) were prepared. Cell proliferation and migration were determined using Cell Counting Kit-8 and Transwell assay, respectively. Serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 3 (SGK3), β-catenin, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression were evaluated by Western blotting, while dual luciferasereporter gene assay was used to evaluate whether SGK3 is an miR-129-5p target.Results: miR-129-5p expression was significantly reduced during the progression of CCl4-induced rat hepatic fibrosis (p < 0.05). The proliferation rate and migration ability of the primary HSCs in the miR- 129-5p mimics group were significantly lower than those in the miR-129-5p NC and blank control groups (p < 0.05). Protein expression of SGK3, β-catenin, and α-SMA in the miR-129-5p mimics group was reduced (p < 0.05), and miR-129-5p showed targeted binding to SGK3.Conclusion: MiR-129-5p down-regulates the expression of β-catenin through targeted regulation of SGK3 to inhibit HSC activation, providing novel insight into design of a potential treatment strategy for hepatic fibrosis.
Chrysophanol exerts protective effect against atherosclerosis via NFκB-mediated signaling in LDLR-/- mice model
Authors: Li Yuping , Zhang Jun , Tian Huawei
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To study the therapeutic effect of chrysophanol (CHR) on diet-induced atherogenesis in LDLR-/- mice.Methods: Mice were fed atherogenic diet for 12 weeks after which some lipid profile markers such as total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and triglyceride (TG) were measured. The mRNA expression levels of lipid synthesis genes and lipid overload-related inflammatory indicator molecules were assayed with quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), while the corresponding protein expressions were determined with western blotting assay. The therapeutic effect of CHR on atherogenesis was confirmed using H & E and Oil red O stainings of mice aortic sections.Results: CHR administration significantly reduced levels of TC, LDL-c, HDL-c and TG (p ≤ 0.05), and restored the mRNA and protein expressions of genes involved in lipid and glucose homeostasis, namely, AdipoR1, PPAR-Ƴ and HMco-A (p < 0.05). Moreover, CHR potentially alleviated diet-induced inflammation, as is evident in reduced levels of molecular inflammatory signaling factors NF-κB and TLR-4, and significant down-regulations of the proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β (p < 0.05). Furthermore, aorta histology revealed that CHR significantly reduced lipid storage in the arteries of mice fed atherogenic diet (p < 0.05).Conclusion: These results indicate that CHR reduces diet-induced lipid storage in LDLR-/- mice and also controlled inflammation-associated lipid overload. These findings may provide a molecular basis for potential application of chrysophanol in the treatment of atherosclerosis.
Raised Childhood Obesity and Its Consequences: Alarming Worldwide for Primordial Prevention
Authors: Gowda Jyothi L , V Veena , L Shwetha B
Published: June 2022

Childhood Obesity is defined as excess or abnormal increase of fat accumulation in the body. Early, developed countries were facing this childhood obesity but now it has moved to developing countries. According to World Health Organization (WHO), 39 million children under the age of 5 are obese and overweight in 2020 and 340 million adolescents and children aged between 5-19 were obese and overweight in 2016. According to Center for Disease Control, prevalence of obesity in United States was 19.3% and affected about 14.4 million adolescents and children in 2018. Moreover, in the adult population morbidity and mortality is increased in individuals who were overweight in adolescence, even if they lose the extra weight during adulthood. Diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, gastro intestinal disturbance, respiratory problems, orthopedic disorders once considered as adult problems now has become major health issue in children’s. Timely action must be initiated to combat the rising epidemic of childhood obesity and its consequences. However, by periodic surveillance on nutrition and childhood obesity in community, using various strategies at home and providing needy based intervention by schools care services, formulating and implementing structured policies will reduce the impact of childhood obesity worldwide.
Fertility Booster: Butter Fruit
Authors: Venkateshappa Veena , L Jyothi , V Veena Devi M
Published: June 2022

Infertility is considered to be a global concern that affects many aspects of life for both sexes. The infertility epidemic is fast approaching and its numbers have reached 186 million people worldwide. The negative aspects of an unhealthy diet can be linked to reproductive health in women and adequate nutritional support can improve fertility. Most health expert recommendations and dietary guidelines acknowledge that certain foods or diet plans can actually improve fertility specifically, diet plans involving accumulated fruit and vegetable intake. However, the amount of nutrients varies significantly among fruits and vegetables, and not all fruit and vegetable choices are thought of “nutrient-rich”.Butter Fruit are distinctive, they contain abundant higher amounts of the key nutrients like folate and potassium, that are usually under-consumed in maternal diets and are coupled to spice up fertility and as well as cut back various sorts of diseases and deficiency as they contain essential nutrients and bioactive compounds.The present review article aims at addressing the proof that Butter Fruit could also be a singular nutrition for reinforcing fertility during pre-conception period.
ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF WHEY AND COLOSTRUM HYDROLYZATES COMPLEXES with y-CYCLODEXTRIN
Authors:   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Tarun E. I. , Vinogradov P. A. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Karabun D. A. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Halavach T. M. ,   Belarusian State University, Romanovich R. V. ,   Belarusian State University
Published: June 2022

The comparative study of the antioxidant activity of whey protein concentrate, native colostrum, their ultrafiltered hydrolysates, as well as complexes of ultrafiltered hydrolysates with Y-cyclodextrin was carried out. The dependences of the fluorescence intensity of fluorescein on the logarithm of the concentration of all samples were obtained, from which the IC50 values were graphically determined, which were in the range of 7,2-103,4 gg/ml. Complexes of ultrafiltrate hydrolysates with Y-cyclodextrin restored fluorescein fluorescence to 88-96 % at a sample concentration of 0,68-0,75 mg/ml.
DETECTION OF MICRONUCLEI IN THE BUCCAL EPITHELIUM OF SMOKERS
Authors:   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Savitsky A. A. , Malinovskaya Y. V. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University
Published: June 2022

In this work, it was made the influence assessment on the formation of micronuclei of such factors as: smoking, smoking experience and passive smoking using the micronucleus test. The results obtained allow us to conclude that these factors affect the increase in cells with micronuclei.
MODERN METHODS OF PHYTOINDICATION OF TECHNOGENIC POLLUTION OF NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS BY HEAVY METALS
Authors:   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Busko Eu. G. , Akshevskaya E. V. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University
Published: June 2022

The method of bioindication of ecosystems by heavy metals is presented. The ecological significance of this method in comparison with other types of bioindication is confirmed by a number of advantages. The mechanism of accumulation of heavy metals in mosses is emphasized. The evaluation of modern laboratory methods for the determination of heavy metals in vegetation was carried out. The method of determination of heavy metals (copper, cobalt, lead) in mossy is presented. On the basis of modern research, the importance of both the selection of mosslike species and the described methodology for the determination of heavy metals in the atmosphere is shown, which confirms the relevance of this topic.
STATUS AND OPTIMISATION OF THE POTENTILLA RUPESTRIS L. POPULATION
Authors:   Polessky state university, Yunkevich T. V. , Chernetskaya A. G. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University
Published: June 2022

Recently, the size of plant species populations has significantly decreased: in terms of area and the number of individuals at greatest risk of extinction (species of protection categories I-II), indicating a regressive type of successional dynamics of these populations and the need to take urgent special protection and reintroduction measures. The article presents the results of assessment of the state and optimization of conservation of populations of protected plants by the example of species of protection category I, Potentilla rupestris L.
EXPRESSION OF ANTHROPOGENIC PRESSURE ON ECOSYSTEMS BY MORPHOMETRIC, PHENETIC AND CYTOLOGICAL INDICATORS OF BIOINDICATOR SPECIES
Authors:   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Sergeeva T. P. , Lozinskaya O. V. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Smirnova E. G. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Titova E. T. ,   PAAP «Zoosvet»
Published: June 2022

A comparative analysis of the chemical composition of the soils of three territorial clusters, as well as the features of cytological characteristics and population structure of bioindicator species is given. Indicator species among Acrididae have been identified. Test criteria have been determined in bioindicator species: cytogenetic parameters in phyto indicators (Alium cepa) and morpho-phenetic signs in zoo indicators - locusts (Acrididae).
THE IMPACT OF URBAN ECOLOGY ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SPORT
Authors:   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Duzinchuk V. D. , Karchmit A. J. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Aksenchik S. V. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University
Published: June 2022

The impact of human activity on the environment has caused changes in the hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, and has led to a multitude of environmental problems that are acute for modern society. The caused changes in the environment have had an impact on all aspects of social life. The interrelation of ecology with physical culture and sports deserves special attention, as it is of a bidirectional nature. On the one hand, man actively affects the environment (construction and operation of sports facilities, organization and conduct of sports competitions, etc.). On the other hand, human health depends on the state of the environment, the ecological situation in which a person trains.
ECOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE POPULATION ALDROVANDA VESICULOSA IN CONDITIONS OF URBANIZATION
Authors:   Brest State Technical University, Kirichenko L. A. , Volchak A. A. ,   Brest State Technical University
Published: June 2022

In the paper presents the results of the hydromorphological, the hydrochemical, the hydrobiological and of the biocenotic studies of the “Mukhina Yama” pond in Zhabinka, Republic of Belarus. The influence of the biogeochemical and soil-geochemical conditions of watersheds on the quality of pond water was assessed; the ecological conditions for the existence of the Aldrovanda Vesiculosa population of the 2nd category of protection of the Red Book Republic of Belarus in the urban environment have been established.
CHANGES IN AIR TEMPERATURE IN MINSK CITY FOR THE PERIOD 2020-2021 DATA FROM AUTOMATIC METEOROLOGICAL STATIONS
Authors:   National Ozone Monitoring and Research Center BSU, Schlender T. V. , Chumakou Y. A. ,   Faculty of geography and geoinformatics BSU, Sycheuski A. O. ,   Faculty of geography and geoinformatics BSU, Prakopchyk Y. A. ,   Faculty of geography and geoinformatics BSU, Krupskaya M. A. ,   Faculty of geography and geoinformatics BSU
Published: June 2022

The paper considers the climate of the city, its characteristic features and factors. Emphasis is placed on the distribution of air temperature in the city, urban heat island and methods of its study. Data from automatic meteorological stations and road measuring stations in Minsk and its suburbs are given. Maps of air temperatures in Minsk for the period 2020-2021 were built for the whole period and in certain months of the year. The obtained results are relatively similar to the data of satellite images of land surface temperature. The range of the urban heat island in Minsk in different seasons of the year is compared with other previous studies in Minsk.
STUDYING THE ABILITY OF LEMNA MINOR L. TO HYPERACCUMULATE OF HEAVY METALS
Authors:   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Zhyltsova Y. V. , Melikov B. B. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University, Vasilieva A. V. ,   International Sakharov Environmental Institute, Belarusian State University
Published: June 2022

In the work, as a result of the experiments on the cultivation of the plant Lemna minor under conditions of varying degrees of environmental pollution with heavy metals (Cu2+ and Zn2+), physiological indicators were analyzed: the average specific growth rate, growth rate inhibition, and yield reduction. The maximum concentration of zinc (0.16 mg/l), in which the plant L. minor is able to exist, is promising from the point of view of its use in phytoremediation of environmental objects. The maximum concentration of copper, in which the plant L. minor is able to exist, has not been reached.