bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes knowledge, attitudes and practices among Chinese primary care physicians: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Pi Linhua , He BinBin , Fei Dongxue , Shi Xiejie , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: February 2024

Background:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a public health crisis that requires adequate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) by health care providers to prevent or delay the progression of the disease. This study aimed to assess the KAP regarding T2DM among primary care providers (PCPs) in Central China.
Methods:
This multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted among 971 PCPs using self-administered KAP questionnaires. Questionnaires were designed to evaluate KAP regarding T2DM among PCPs, and was measured with SPSS software.
Results:
A total of 971 PCPs with a mean age of 44.0 ± 10.2 years were evaluated. 620 (63.9%) PCPs worked at village clinic and 605 (62.3%) PCPs have been working more than 20 years. Only 26.3% of the respondents participated in CME programs regarding diabetes in the past year due to Covid-19 pandemic. Overall, despite positive attitudes toward diabetes, there were substantial gaps in knowledge and practices. The PCPs scored 7.25 out of 14 points on the knowledge subscales, 7.13 out of 8 on the attitude subscales, and 4.85 out of 11 on the practice subscales. Gender, age, practice setting, professional titles, duration of practice and CME attendance were significant predictors of knowledge; Age, practice setting and duration of practice were significant predictors of attitudes; and family history of diabetes affected PCP practices.
Conclusions:
Despite positive attitudes toward diabetes, there were substantial gaps in knowledge and practices. These findings call for action from relevant health authorities and policy makers to improve PCPs' KAP regarding diabetes in Central China.
The comparison of handpiece anti-surge system and main body in cataract surgery
Authors: Kim Hyo Won , Kim Inkee , Kim Hyun Seung , Kim Eun Chul
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: To compare the efficacy of the Centrion handpiece anti-surge system (Active Sentry®) and main body, and evaluate the frequency of the anti-surge system in the Centrion handpiece in cataract surgery according to the grade of nucleosclerosis.
Methods: 600 eyes of 415 patients who underwent cataract surgery was retrospectively enrolled. Intraoperative parameters included phacoemulsification time (seconds), cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), and balanced salt solution (BSS) use (ml). Clinical measurements were made preoperatively and at one day, one month, two, and three months postoperatively, including the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and the corneal endothelial cell (CEC) count in the handpiece group (N=300) and main body group (N=300). Within the anti-surge group, the number of anti-surge system activated was collected. Cataract nucleosclerosis grading was done by the Lens Opacities Classification System III.
Results: Anti-surge (times), phacoemulsification time, CDE, and BSS use (ml) significantly increased with increasing nucleosclerosis grades and in patients with zonule weakness, poor mydriasis, and pseudoexfoliation syndrome in the handpiece group, respectively (p < 0.05). Phacoemulsification time, CDE, and BSS use of the handpiece group were significantly lower than those of the main body group (p < 0.05). Phacoemulsification time, CDE, and CEC loss of handpiece group were significantly lower than those of the main body group in nucleosclerosis grade 5 and 6 (p < 0.05). BSS uses of the handpiece group were significantly lower than those of the main body group in all nucleosclerosis grade (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Because of the fast-reacting anti-surge, phacoemulsification time, CDE, and BSS use were saved in the handpiece anti-surge system rather than in the main body. Therefore, the anti-surge system in the Centrion handpiece helps the surgeon perform safer cataract surgery in higher nucleosclerosis grade, zonule weakness, poor mydriasis, and pseudoexfoliation syndrome.
Selective Bias Virtual Screening for Discovery of Promising Antimalarial Candidates targeting Plasmodium N-Myristoyltransferase
Authors: Andrade Carolina , Sousa Bruna Katiele de Paula , Sigurdardóttir Sunniva , Bourgard Catarina , Borba Joyce , Clementino Leandro , Salazar-Alvarez Luis Carlos , Groustra Sophia , Zigweid Rachael , Khim Monique , Staker Bart , Costa Fabio , Eriksson Leif , Sunnerhagen Per
Published: February 2024

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge, with Plasmodium vivax being the species responsible for the most prevalent form of the disease. Given the limited therapeutic options available, the search for new antimalarials against P. vivax is urgent. This study aims to identify new inhibitors for P. vivax N-myristoyltransferase (PvNMT), an essential drug target against malaria. Through a validated virtual screening campaign, we prioritized 23 candidates for further testing. In the yeast NMT system, seven compounds exhibit a potential inhibitor phenotype. In vitro antimalarial phenotypic assays confirmed the activity of four candidates while demonstrating an absence of cytotoxicity. Enzymatic assays reveal LabMol-394 as the most promising inhibitor, displaying selectivity against the parasite and a strong correlation within the yeast system. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations shed some light into its binding mode. This study constitutes a substantial contribution to the exploration of a selective quinoline scaffold and provides valuable insights into the development of new antimalarial candidates.
Automatic BECT Spike Detection Algorithm Based on Adaptive Template Matching and Convolution Neural Network
Authors: Wu Jiang , Xiong Zhao , He Xuelan , Wu Duanpo , Jiang Tiejia , Jiang Lurong
Published: February 2024

Spike is an important and widely accepted biomarker used in the diagnosis of epilepsy based on scalp electroencephalogram (sEEG). Due to the similarity of its waveform with non-epileptic brain activity and artifacts, it is essential to develop an automated spike detection method based on waveform characteristics to assist physicians. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel algorithm for automatic spike detection that uses an adaptive template matching method as a pre-processor to optimise the selection of candidate spikes for efficient segmentation of sEEG signals. The process aims to eliminate the impact of data overlap caused by sliding window segmentation. The 1D convolutional neural network with a simple structure achieves excellent performance. Besides, it requires fewer trainable parameters and imposes a smaller demand on computational resources. The proposed method is evaluated on sEEG data recorded at Zhejiang University Children's Hospital. Moreover, the experimental results demonstrate that our model achieves average accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, and AUC of 98.7\%, 97.39\%, 100\%, 98.67\%, and 99.3\%, respectively.
GNN Graph Classification In Action: Uncovering Patterns in Time Series Data
Authors: Romanova Alex
Published: February 2024

This study pioneers a technique for analyzing time series data through Graph Neural Network (GNN) Graph Classification, extending its application from the traditional arenas of biology and chemistry to the intricate domain of time series analysis. It elaborates on the process of constructing and examining graphs derived from time series data, utilizing both single graphs and sliding window graphs. This methodology proves effective in discerning complex interrelations within the data.
A critical insight from applying GNN Graph Classification to single graphs is the models’ acute sensitivity to graph structures. This attribute significantly enhances their capacity to identify outliers and decode complex patterns that hint at systemic shifts. Such sensitivity underscores the utility of GNN Graph Classification in elucidating time series data dynamics, indicating its broad potential across diverse analytical endeavors.
Integrating sliding window techniques with GNN models, our approach emerges as a versatile analysis tool. It adeptly identifies temporal variations and nuanced patterns that elude traditional static analysis techniques. The findings affirm the adaptability and promise of GNN Graph Classification in conducting thorough time series analysis.
By spotlighting the models’ structural sensitivity and leveraging advanced sliding window methodologies, this research broadens the application spectrum of GNN Graph Classification in data analysis. It lays the groundwork for future explorations in time series and affiliated domains. Marking a significant leap forward, this study illuminates the capacity of GNN Graph Classification models to dissect and interpret complex data patterns, paving the way for novel time series analysis applications and beyond.
Direction-dependent conductivity in planar Hall set-ups with tilted Weyl/multi-Weyl semimetals
Authors: Mandal Ipsita , Ghosh Rahul
Published: February 2024

We compute the magnetoelectric conductivity tensors in planar Hall set-ups, which are built with tilted Weyl semimetals (WSMs) and multi-Weyl semimetals (mWSMs), considering all possible relative orientations of the electromagnetic fields (E and B) and the direction of the tilt. The non- Drude part of the response arises from a nonzero Berry curvature in the vicinity of the WSM/mWSM node under consideration. Only in the presence of a nonzero tilt do we find linear-in-|B| terms in set-ups where the tilt-axis is not perpendicular to the plane spanned by E and B. The advantage of the emergence of the linear-in-|B| terms is that, unlike the various |B|2-dependent terms that can contribute to experimental observations, they have purely a topological origin and they dominate the overall response-characteristics in the realistic parameter regimes. The important signatures of these terms are that (1) they change the periodicity of the response from π to 2π, when we consider their dependence on the angle θ between E and B; and (2) lead to an overall change in sign of the conductivity depending on θ, when measured with respect to the B = 0 case.
Requirements and designing method of optics for self-mixing sensor in presence of speckle
Authors: Sin Tong-Myong , Kim Hyok-Chol , Kim Chol-Hyon , Song Un-Hyok , Ho Kwang-Myong
Published: February 2024

Since the surface of the target which the self-mixing interferometric displacement sensor encounters generally is rough, the sensor is always affected by speckle effect. Although the speckle has an effect on the quality of the self-mixing signal, we have found for the first time that the speckle puts forward an important requirement for the optical system of the sensor. In the paper we have also presented a design method of the optical system for the self-mixing displacement sensor which can provide variable measurement distance. The methods and results reported will give deeper understanding of self-mixing phenomenon and be of great help to improving the performance of the self-mixing sensor.
SORCHIC: Second Order Reversible Cellular Automata based Hybrid Image Cipher for IoT applications
Authors: Rao Vijaya Bhaskara , Rawat Umashankar , Roy Satyabrata , Upadhyay Utsav
Published: February 2024

In the rapidly evolving digital world, ensuring secure data transmission, especially in image data pivotal to modern communication, remains critical. The Internet of Things (IoT) amplifies the need for encryption systems that blend robust security with efficiency. However, current cryptosystems often compromise one for the other. To address this, emerging algorithmic techniques aim to strike a balance. Among these, First Order Cellular Automata (FOCA) show promise for image encryption, aligning seamlessly with image processing intricacies while maintaining lower implementation complexity. This paper introduces SORCHIC, a novel hybrid encryption algorithm designed specifically for IoT applications encrypting multichannel images. Leveraging Second-Order Cellular Automata (SOCA) and Chaotic Maps, SORCHIC undergoes comprehensive exploration within this work. Detailed insights into its inner workings are provided, followed by a rigorous experimental analysis comparing it to existing encryption methods. The results underscore SORCHIC’s resilience against diverse cryptanalysis attacks and highlight its superior efficiency compared to established techniques. This study contributes to advancing encryption methods, particularly in IoT, by presenting a robust, efficient, and secure approach tailored for image data transmission.
Feiras de ciências: Pesquisa e análise de dissertações e teses que tratam do planejamento, organização e execução do evento
Authors: Scaglioni Cícero Gularte , Dorneles Pedro Fernando Teixeira , Maciel Gabriela Solari
Published: February 2024

Atualmente, ocorrem centenas de feiras de ciências pelo país. De diferentes tamanhos e proporções, cada feira tem enorme contribuição para a divulgação e popularização da ciência, além de proporcionar, ao estudante, a alfabetização científica e o desenvolvimento pessoal. Neste estudo, o propósito é identificar e analisar dissertações e teses brasileiras que tratam do tema feiras de ciências, dando foco ao planejamento, à organização e à execução desses eventos. O objetivo é extrair, dessas produções, elementos que contribuam para a criação ou o aprimoramento de projetos semelhantes. Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática de literatura, delineada em três etapas: planejamento, sistematização e análise qualitativa dos dados. Foram usados, como bases de dados, os portais de busca Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações, Portal Brasileiro de Publicações Científicas em Acesso Aberto e o Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES). Encontramos dez dissertações que tratam do tema e enfoque abordados neste artigo. Baseados na análise dessas dissertações, os resultados levam a indicar a formação de subcomissões e de uma comissão organizadora, de modo a contemplar o planejamento, a execução e a avaliação dos eventos. Concluímos que se encontra, nesse assunto, lacuna para debate e justificativas para novas propostas de pesquisas.
Protagonismo dos estudantes que desenvolvem atividades junto a um núcleo de tecnologia
Authors: Rossetto Anubis Graciela de Moraes , Marafon Gustavo , Brezolin João Mário Lopes
Published: February 2024

Os avanços tecnológicos têm contribuído em diversas áreas do conhecimento, porém quando olhamos para a educação ainda vemos presente, muitas vezes, a metodologia de instrucionismo engessada e antiquada. Neste sentido, este trabalho busca alternativas construtivistas aliadas à tecnologia para o desenvolvimento do protagonismo dos estudantes. Por meio da aplicação de oficinas sobre tópicos em tecnologia em um laboratório maker com participantes do ensino médio, buscou-se implementar atividades que contribuam com o desenvolvimento cognitivo dos aprendizes. Com a realização de encontros, planejados em diferentes momentos, foi possível conduzir uma discussão fazendo a relação entre as percepções dos estudantes, as teorias construtivistas e os conceitos da cultura maker com vistas a adoção do papel de protagonista. Os resultados obtidos evidenciam que diferentes abordagens para o ensino de tecnologia contribuem para o desenvolvimento do estudante em seu processo de aprendizagem.
O uso do tempo pelas crianças fora da escola: Um reflexo da desigualdade de gênero na infância
Authors: Leão Letícia Carvalho , Matias Neyfsom Carlos Fernandes
Published: February 2024

A maneira como as crianças usam o tempo fora da escola demonstra como o gênero tem implicações nas relações humanas e na forma como elas percebem os contextos que frequentam. Com isso, o objetivo deste estudo foi identificar se há diferenças na percepção do ambiente familiar, na satisfação com a vida e no envolvimento em atividades extracurriculares entre meninas e meninos. A metodologia utilizada foi um estudo de campo com abordagem quantitativa e com delineamento exploratório-descritivo. Os participantes foram 90 estudantes, 47 meninas e 43 meninos, com idade média de 8,53 anos (DP = 0,50). Na coleta de dados, foram utilizados uma escala de envolvimento em atividades extracurriculares, uma escala multidimensional de satisfação de vida para Crianças e uma escala de percepção do clima familiar. Os resultados indicaram a existência de diferenças relacionadas ao gênero no que se refere a percepção do ambiente familiar, na satisfação com a vida e no envolvimento em atividades extracurriculares. As meninas se envolvem mais com atividades extracurriculares estruturadas e com as tarefas acadêmicas/responsáveis. Além disso, elas percebem a escola de maneira melhor e se veem fazendo menos atividades interessantes. Os meninos percebem o clima familiar mais positivo do que elas.
Overview of piezoelectric energy harvester based on wind-induced vibration effect
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Zhang Yuanliang , Yang Le , Chen Hejuan
Published: February 2024

In the field of new environmental energy harvesting technology, wind energy and piezoelectric energy harvesting have become research hotspots. By utilizing wind energy into vibration energy, i.e., wind-induced vibration effect is a research hotspot in the field of environmental energy harvesting. This article comprehensively analyzes the research status and development trend of piezoelectric energy harvesters based on wind-induced vibration effects at home and abroad. It was found that the conversion process of wind energy to vibration energy is mainly based on flutter, galloping, and acoustic resonance. The conversion of vibration energy into electrical energy is mainly piezoelectric power generation, supplemented by magnetic induction power generation and friction power generation. For high power density and small volume application scenarios, resonant cavity type wind vibration energy collection is the main development trend.
Assessment of anthropogenic and climate-driven water storage variations over water-stressed river basins of Ethiopia
Authors: Yoshe Agegnehu Kitanbo
Published: February 2024

Globally, surface water, groundwater, soil moisture, snow storage, canopy water, and wet biomass constituents make up water storage, which plays a significant role in the hydrological water balance. Evaluating the variations in water storage anomalies associated with climate forcing and human activities over river basins is crucial for assessing water scarcity and predicting potential pressures on water resources in the future. In this study, we assessed the impacts of climatic and anthropogenic drivers on the change in water storage in the river basins of Ethiopia by using the independent component analysis to examine Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment with the Global Land Data Assimilate System-based water storage and comparing the independent component analysis with hydro-meteorological data and statistical data related to human activities. It is of great significance for helping people better understand the evaluation of terrestrial water storage anomalies under the combined influence of climatic change and anthropogenic activities and providing information for better protection and utilization of water resources at river basin level. It is crucial to take effective measures to protect these precious land and water resources and prevent their further deterioration. The estimated result will be essential for sustainable water management and protection.
Interleukin 6 Antagonists in Severe COVID-19 Disease: Cardiovascular
and Respiratory Outcomes
Authors: Khan Shahzad
Published: February 2024

Background::

Inhibitors of interleukin 6 [IL-6] have been utilized to treat severe
COVID-19 disease. Their immunosuppressive or immunomodulating impact may be beneficial in
COVID-19.

Objectives::

To discuss the role of IL-6 inhibitors and assess various trials conducted to evaluate
the efficacy of IL-6 inhibitors in COVID-19 disease.

Two of the most common causes of mortality in COVID-19-infected critically ill individuals
are acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multiorgan failure. Increased levels
of inflammatory cytokines suggest that a cytokine storm, also known as cytokine release syndrome
(CRS), is involved in the etiology of COVID-19. Most tissue damage, sepsis, and pulmonary
and cardiovascular problems are caused mainly by the host defense system. Therefore, regulating
this inflammatory cascade using immunomodulators is a prudent strategy. Although corticosteroids,
as immunomodulators, are routinely used in COVID-19 management, interleukin (IL)
inhibitors, especially IL-6 inhibitors, are also tested in many trials. Many studies have demonstrated
that IL-6 inhibitors improve disease outcomes and decrease mortality, whereas others have
shown that they are ineffective. In this paper, we briefly examined the role of IL-6 in COVID-19
pathogenesis and trials that support or refute the use of IL-6 inhibitors in treating COVID-19 disease.

Results::

Though mixed results are coming from trials regarding the adjuvant use of IL-6 inhibitors
and standard anti-viral therapy with dexamethasone, a consensus favors using IL-6 inhibitors
in severely ill COVID-19 patients regardless of the outcome.
Natural Phenolic Compounds with Antithrombotic and Antiplatelet
Effects: A Drug-likeness Approach
Authors: Fernandes Diégina Araújo , Gomes Ayala Nara Pereira , da Silva Camila Macaubas , de Medeiros Henriques Isabelly Soares , de Menezes Renata Priscila Barros , Scotti Marcus Tullius , Teles Yanna Carolina Ferreira , Edrada-Ebel RuAngelie , de Fatima Vanderlei de Souza Maria
Published: February 2024

Background:

Thrombosis is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality
in a wide range of vessel diseases. Several studies have been conducted to identify antithrombotic
agents from medicinal plants, and phenolic compounds (PCs) have been
shown to effectively inhibit plasma coagulation and platelet aggregation.

Objectives:

This study aimed to conduct a survey of the natural PCs with proven antithrombotic
and antiplatelet activities, as well as to evaluate by computational modeling
the physicochemical and toxicological properties of these compounds using drug-likeness
approaches.

Methods:

The data were collected from the scientific database: ‘Web of Science’,
‘Scifinder’, ‘Pubmed’, ‘ScienceDirect’ and ‘Google Scholar’, the different classes of
PCs with antithrombotic or antiplatelet effects were used as keywords. These molecules
were also evaluated for their Drug-Likeness properties and toxicity to verify their profile
for being candidates for new antithrombotic drugs.

Results:

In this review, it was possible to register 85 lignans, 73 flavonoids, 28 coumarins,
21 quinones, 23 phenolic acids, 8 xanthones and 8 simple phenols. Activity records
for tannins were not found in the researched databases. Of these 246 compounds,
213 did not violate any of Lipinski's rules of five, of which 125 (59%) showed non-toxicity,
being promising candidates for new potential antithrombotic drugs.

Conclusion:

This review arouses interest in the isolation of phenolic compounds that
may allow a new approach for the prevention of both arterial and venous thrombosis,
with the potential to become alternatives in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular
diseases.
Anti-Cancer and Anti-Oxidant Effects of Fenoferin-loaded Human
Serum Albumin Nanoparticles Coated with Folic Acid-bound
Chitosan
Authors: Almusawi Methaq Abid Said Klmohamed , Pouresmaeil Vahid , Tabrizi Masoud Homayouni
Published: February 2024

Background::

Several diseases, including cancer, can be effectively treated
by altering the nanocarrier surfaces so that they are more likely to be targeted.

Objective::

This study aimed to prepare human albumin (HSA) nanoparticles
containing Fenoferin (FN) modified with folic acid (FA) attached to Chitosan (CS) to
improve its anti-cancer properties.

Methods::

Nanoparticles were first synthesized and surface modified. Their
physicochemical properties were assessed by different methods, such as FESEM,
FTIR, and DLS. In addition, the percentage of drug encapsulated was measured by
indirect method. Besides evaluating the cytotoxic effects of nanoparticles using the
MTT assay, the antioxidant capacity of FN-HSA-CS-FA was assessed using the ABTS
and DPPH methods. Nanoparticles were also investigated for their anti-cancer effects
by evaluating the expression of apoptosis and metastasis genes.

Results::

Based on this study, FN-HSA-CS-FA was 165.46 nm in size, and a uniform
dispersion distribution was identified. Particles were reported to have a zeta potential
of +29 mV, which is within the range of stable nanoparticles. Approximately 75% of FN
is encapsulated in nanoparticles. Cytotoxic assay determined that liver cancer cells
were most sensitive to treatment with an IC50 of 144 μg/ml. Inhibition of free radicals by
nanoparticles is estimated to have an IC50 value of 195.23 and 964 μg/ml, for ABTS
and DPPH, respectively. In the treatment with nanoparticles, flow cytometry results of
arresting the cells in the SubG1 phase and real-time qPCR results indicated increased
expression of caspases-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 genes.

Conclusion::

According to this study, synthesized nanoparticles inhibited free radicals
and activated apoptosis in liver cancer cells, and the capability of these nanoparticles
to inhibit cancer cells was also confirmed. This formulation can, therefore, be used in
preclinical studies to test the efficacy of the drug.
PLGA, a Hauler for Anticancer Drugs: Review
Authors: Garg Anubhav , Komal  , Gupta Parul , Sachin  , Sharma Shubham , Kumar Shubham , Kumar Sushil , Urvashi  , Kaur Rupinder , Kriplani Priyanka , Guarve Kumar
Published: February 2024

Polymers are the mainstay of drug delivery systems. They may be natural, semisynthetic,
or synthetic and used to program the release of drugs as per requirement. They are used to enhance
the bioavailability and hence solubility, stability, and site specificity, or to release to drug either in a
controlled, pulsatile, sustained, immediate release pattern. In the present review, we have discussed
the recent prose and patents of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and PLGA applicability in preparing
formulations against cancer. Synthetic polymer, PLGA comprises monomers of glycolide and lactide
available in various grades with varying physicochemical properties thus serving the formulators to
fabricate preparations having designed release patterns. In this review, current literature and patents
of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid); PLGA using anticancer preparations have been covered. PLGA has
demonstrated its potential as a polymer to program the release of drugs as a coating polymer and the
development of a matrix in various drug delivery systems. It can augment the bioavailability of the
drug reducing the toxicity/side effects and delivering the drug at the target site. The potential of
PLGA to transfer the drug may unclutter novel ways for therapeutic interventions in various tumors.
Role of Availability on Actual Purchase Behavior of Organic Food
Products: An Application of Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Painuly Poonam , Pachaury Prachi
Published: February 2024

Aim:

This paper examines how consumers' purchase intentions and actual purchase behavior for organic food products are related to the moderating effect of availability and its relationship with those two variables.

Methods:

Using structural equation modeling, a structured survey of 250 participants revealed
that the three components of the theory of planned behavior-attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavior control impacted consumers' purchase intentions.

Results:

Findings revealed a strong correlation between purchase intention and actual purchase behavior of the consumers towards organic products. Furthermore, it identifies a few areas for future
work that would benefit wholesalers, retailers, marketers, consumers, and scholars.

Conclusion:

Food provides indispensable nourishment, which leads to a healthy life. However, it
has recently come to light that many food products have become unhealthy due to farmers' excessive use of pesticides and chemical-based fertilizers, resulting in several illnesses. Currently, it has
been observed that many consumers are attracted to organic food that is healthy, tasty, and free
from chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers. To increase the study's accuracy and utility, further research might be done on additional aspects, such as significant price premiums, a lack of knowledge, confidence in organic certification programs, and quality.
The Effective Sorting Technologies for Reducing Aflatoxins in Nuts and
Dried Figs in Turkey
Authors: Özçakmak Sibel , AlMatar Manaf , Akbulut Onur , Çetinkaya Asya
Published: February 2024

Background:

RASFF notifications serve to determine the hazards responsible for food
and feed. In case of determining risks to human health, the information provided to member countries via the rapid alarm system at the same time warned us to take the necessary measures.

Objectives:

In this research, the RASFF portal alerts over the last three years related to aflatoxins
in hazelnut, fig, and peanut products were examined. The impact of image processing technologies on lowering the danger of aflatoxins in shelled hazelnuts and dried figs was also investigated,
as well as Critical Control Points (CCPs) on aflatoxin hazard.

Methods:

The RASFF database was used in the RASFF Window portal and analyzed for aflatoxin
alerts. ISO 22000:2018 was used for hazard and risk analysis for raw hazelnut, peanut, and fig
products. Aflatoxin analyses were performed according to the AOAC 2000/991.31 method. Prior
to and after hazelnut sorting methods, levels of aflatoxin were measured. Besides, aflatoxin contamination in peanuts harvesting in 2023 years from three local producers in Turkey was studied.

Results:

The number of RASFF notifications for hazelnuts, peanuts/groundnuts, dried figs, and
their products for the period of 03/01/2020 to 01/06/2023 were 84, 283 and 173, respectively. As a
result of HACCP implementation, especially for aflatoxin hazard management, optical-laser-manual sorting and aflatoxin detection using UV light stages are accepted as CCPs. When nuts were
sorted using optical and laser systems were detected decreasing total aflatoxin levels. The mean
value of Aflatoxin B1(AFB1) and total aflatoxins were reduced from 7.80±1.08 and 13.56±1.06 to
3.63±0.39 and 7.21±0.71, respectively. 79.16% of all sorted samples were found to comply with
legal limits. Investigated peanut samples for aflatoxin B1 contents were found between 5.63 and
27.75 µg kg-1 in 19.5%.

Conclusion:

The alerts based on aflatoxin contamination above legal limits have been carried on
for nuts and dried figs. The physical sorting methods using optical selection and high-resolution
laser sensor systems aflatoxin-contaminated nuts from healthy nuts applied for in-shell Turkish
nut sorting were able to assess the quality of the batch studied, and the systems were assigned significantly effective to reduce aflatoxin contents. Food business operators in Turkey, which is
among the countries exporting agricultural and food products to the European Union (EU), have
tended to prefer the most advanced technologies. Efficacies of reduction of aflatoxin by different
physical and other (such as imaging, X-ray and acoustic, audio signals and hyperspectral images
of moldy natural nuts etc.) methods will be developed in the near future.
A-RFP: An Adaptive Residue Flexibility Prediction Method Improving Protein-ligand Docking Based on Homologous Proteins
Authors: Lei Chuqi , Fang Senbiao , Li Yaohang , Guo Fei , Li Min
Published: February 2024

Background:

Computational molecular docking plays an important role in determining
the precise receptor-ligand conformation, which becomes a powerful tool for drug discovery. In the
past 30 years, most computational docking methods have treated the receptor structure as a rigid
body, although flexible docking often yields higher accuracy. The main disadvantage of flexible
docking is its significantly higher computational cost. Due to the fact that different protein pocket
residues exhibit different degrees of flexibility, semi-flexible docking methods, balancing rigid
docking and flexible docking, have demonstrated success in predicting highly accurate conformations
with a relatively low computational cost.

Methods:

In our study, the number of flexible pocket residues was assessed by quantitative analysis,
and a novel adaptive residue flexibility prediction method, named A-RFP, was proposed to improve
the docking performance. Based on the homologous information, a joint strategy is used to predict
the pocket residue flexibility by combining RMSD, the distance between the residue sidechain and
the ligand, and the sidechain orientation. For each receptor-ligand pair, A-RFP provides a docking
conformation with the optimal affinity.

Results:

By analyzing the docking affinities of 3507 target-ligand pairs in 5 different values ranging
from 0 to 10, we found there is a general trend that the larger number of flexible residues inevitably
improves the docking results by using Autodock Vina. However, a certain number of counterexamples
still exist. To validate the effectiveness of A-RFP, the experimental assessment was tested in a
small-scale virtual screening on 5 proteins, which confirmed that A-RFP could enhance the docking
performance. And the flexible-receptor virtual screening on a low-similarity dataset with 85 receptors
validates the accuracy of residue flexibility comprehensive evaluation. Moreover, we studied
three receptors with FDA-approved drugs, which further proved A-RFP can play a suitable role in
ligand discovery.

Conclusion:

Our analysis confirms that the screening performance of the various numbers of flexible
residues varies wildly across receptors. It suggests that a fine-grained docking method would
offset the aforementioned deficiency. Thus, we presented A-RFP, an adaptive pocket residue flexibility
prediction method based on homologous information. Without considering computational resources
and time costs, A-RFP provides the optimal docking result.
Ivermectin Inhibits Bladder Cancer Cell Growth and Induces Oxidative Stress and
DNA Damage
Authors: Fan Ning , Zhang Lixiu , Wang Zhiping , Ding Hui , Yue Zhongjin
Published: February 2024

Background:

Bladder cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the urinary system. Nevertheless,
current therapies do not provide satisfactory results. It is imperative that novel strategies should be developed
for treating bladder cancer.

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic agent, Ivermectin, on bladder cancer cells in
vitro and in vivo.

Methods:

CCK-8 and EdU incorporation assays were used to evaluate cell proliferation. Apoptosis was detected
by flow cytometry, TUNEL assay, and western blotting. Flow cytometry and DCFH-DA assay were used to analyze
the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. DNA damage was determined by Neutral COMET assay and γ
H2AX expression. Proteins related to apoptosis and DNA damage pathways were determined by WB assay. Xenograft
tumor models in nude mice were used to investigate the anti-cancer effect of Ivermectin in vivo.

Results:

Our study showed that in vitro and in vivo, Ivermectin inhibited the growth of bladder cancer cells. In
addition, Ivermectin could induce apoptosis, ROS production, DNA damage, and activate ATM/P53 pathwayrelated
proteins in bladder cancer cells.

Conclusion:

According to these findings, Ivermectin may be a potential therapeutic candidate against bladder
cancer due to its significant anti-cancer effect.
T Lymphocyte Interferon-gamma Response to Anaplasmataceae-related
Major Surface Proteins and Ankyrin A in Fibromyalgia
Authors: Puri Basant K. , Preyer Rosemarie , Lee Gary S. , Schwarzbach Armin
Published: February 2024

Background:

The aetiology of fibromyalgia is unknown; its symptoms may be related to
a T-lymphocyte-mediated response to infectious organisms.

Objectives:

First, to test the hypothesis that fibromyalgia is associated with increased interferon
(IFN)-γ-secreting T-lymphocytes after stimulation with Anaplasmataceae-related major surface proteins
(MSPs) and the macromolecular translocation type IV secretion system effector ankyrin repeat
domain-containing protein A (AnkA). Second, to ascertain the relationship in fibromyalgia between
(i) the IFN-γ-secreting T-lymphocyte response to stimulation with Anaplasmataceae-related MSPs
and AnkA, and (ii) co-infection by Borrelia and Yersinia spp., and antinuclear antibodies.

Methods:

Using a case-control design, patients fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology
revised criteria for fibromyalgia, and controls, underwent the following blinded assessments: (i) enzyme-
linked immune absorbent spot (ELISpot) IFN-γ release assay of T-lymphocyte reactivity to
Anaplasmataceae-related MSPs and AnkA; (ii) ELISpot IFN-γ release assays of T-lymphocyte reactivity
to three Borrelia antigens, namely Borrelia burgdorferi full antigen (B31); peptide mix (from
Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia garinii); and Borrelia burgdorferi lymphocyte
function-associated antigen-1; (iii) immunoglobulin (Ig) A assay by enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay (ELISA) of antibodies to Yersinia spp.; (iv) IgG (ELISA) antibodies to Yersinia
spp.; (v) serum antinuclear antibodies (immunofluorescence).

Results:

The groups were age- and sex-matched. The mean (standard error) value of IFN-γ release
for the fibromyalgia group was 1.52 (0.26), compared with 1.00 (0.22) for the controls. Generalised
linear modelling (p<0.001) of IFN-γ release in the fibromyalgia patients showed significant main
effects of all three indices of Borrelia infection and of antinuclear antibodies.

Conclusion:

Anaplasmataceae may play an aetiological role in fibromyalgia.
Molecular Targets of Valeric Acid: A Bioactive Natural Product for
Endocrine, Metabolic, and Immunological Disorders
Authors: Kumari Bindu , Kumari Usha , Singh Dhananjay Kumar , Husain Gulam Mohammed , Patel Dinesh Kumar , Shakya Anshul , Singh Ravi Bhushan , Modi Gyan Prakash , Singh Gireesh Kumar
Published: February 2024

Backgrounds:

Postbiotics produced by gut microbiota have exhibited diverse pharmacological
activities. Valeric acid, a postbiotic material produced by gut microbiota and some
plant species like valerian, has been explored to have diverse pharmacological activities.

Methods:

This narrative review aims to summarise the beneficial role of valeric acid for different
health conditions along with its underlying mechanism. In order to get ample scientific evidence,
various databases like Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Google
were exhaustively explored to collect relevant information. Collected data were arranged and
analyzed to reach a meaningful conclusion regarding the bioactivity profiling of valeric acid, its
mechanism, and future prospects.

Results:

Valeric acid belongs to short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) compounds like acetate, propionate,
butyrate, pentanoic (valeric) acid, and hexanoic (caproic) acid. Valeric acid has been
identified as one of the potent histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. In different preclinical in
-vitro and in-vivo studies, valeric acid has been found to have anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, antihypertensive,
anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activity and affects molecular pathways
of different diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and epilepsy.

Conclusion:

These findings highlight the role of valeric acid as a potential novel therapeutic
agent for endocrine, metabolic and immunity-related health conditions, and it must be tested
under clinical conditions to develop as a promising drug.
Mechanistic Insight into the Role of Peptides Secreted from Bacillus clausii
and Future Opportunities
Authors: Guleria Jyoti , Khan Minhaj Ahmad
Published: February 2024

Bacillus clausii is a commercial spore probiotic known to treat multiple diseases. An increased
interest in exploring the nutraceutical and probiotic properties of various microorganisms
has made researchers explore more about these bacteria. The current trends in the healthcare industry
are majorly focused on devising new therapies to avoid drug and pathogen resistance in patients.
Antimicrobial peptides have been considered a source of antibiotics for a long time. Still, getting
new therapies into the market is a big challenge. Members of the genus Bacillus have been reported
to have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial peptides. One of the least explored species under this genus
is Bacillus clausii, concerning peptide drug therapy. The applications of Bacillus clausii in
treating or preventing gut dysbiosis and respiratory infections have been largely supported in the
past two decades. Yet research is lacking in explaining the pathways at molecular levels in targeting
pathogens. In this mini-review, we are going to summarise the research that has been reported so far
about peptide extraction from Bacillus clausii, their mode of action and advantages to mankind, and
the challenges lying in the isolation of peptides.
How can Endophytic Bacteria Benefit Agronomically Important Plants by Protecting Against Pathogens?
Authors: Serrão Cleyson P. , Tadaiesky Lorene B. A. , de Souza Cláudia R. B.
Published: February 2024

 The use of endophytic bacteria is an emerging trend in agriculture since they
can promote plant growth under normal conditions and abiotic and biotic stresses. In
this regard, endophytic bacteria have been used to deal with the consequences of the
climate crisis in global crops, as alternatives to ecologically unsustainable chemical
pesticides and fertilizers. These bacteria can benefit plant growth by direct
mechanisms, such as hormone production and nutrient solubilization, and indirect
mechanisms, which involve protecting the plant against pathogens and suppressing
disease. Thus, this chapter aims to present the main mechanisms of plant growth
promotion by endophytic bacteria, focusing on the genetic and physiological processes
of biocontrol of pathogen growth and induction of systemic plant resistance. Genome
sequencing data from endophytic bacteria provide information about genes involved in
the synthesis of enzymes and antimicrobial compounds, such as siderophores and
hydrocyanic acid, among others. Furthermore, genetic pathways involved in plant
response induction were characterized using sequencing experiments and differential
RNA expression analysis. Jasmonic acid and salicylic acid biosynthesis genes are
differentially expressed in response to plant interaction with endophytic bacteria.
Therefore, data from the most current methodologies of genetic and molecular analysis
will be condensed here to provide an overview to respond to the question that heads the
chapter.
Drugs Affecting Renin-Angiotensin System
Authors: Faruk Khan M. O. , Murphy Karrie
Published: February 2024

This chapter presents a comprehensive account of the medicinal chemistry
of drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). It provides the mechanism of
drug action and details structure-activity relationships (SAR) of the drugs affecting
RAS to give the knowledge base for pharmacists. After studying this chapter, students
will be able to:

• Describe the historical background the RAS and drugs acting on this system.

• Explain RAS enzymes and hormones and their roles in blood pressure.

• Classify drugs acting on the RAS and their structures and binding.

• Discuss in detail the chemistry and SAR of the antagonists involved in RAS including
angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin receptor blockers
(ARBs) and renin inhibitors.

• Delineate the clinical significance and therapeutic evaluations of these classes of
drugs by solving case studies.

• Explain the discovery process of ACEIs and ARBs.
Diuretics
Authors: Weldon David J. , Brooks Krista G. , Faruk Khan M. O.
Published: February 2024

This chapter is a comprehensive account of the medicinal chemistry of
diuretic agents. It provides the mechanism of drug action and details the structure activity relationships (SAR) of these drugs to provide a knowledge base for
pharmacists. After studying this chapter, students will be able to:

• Identify the chemical classification to which a diuretic agent or therapeutic belongs
based on drug structure.

• Evaluate the chemical principles of different classes of diuretics.

• Compare and contrast the potency, onset, and duration of action of the diuretic agents.

• Identify chemical metabolites of the diuretics that increase the risk of nephron and
hepatotoxicity.

• Select an appropriate diuretic agent based on patient-specific symptoms of
hypertension or other problems.

• Rationalize the clinical application of all diuretic drug classes.

• Communicate the chemical rationale for a diuretic to health professionals.

• Delineate the clinical significance and therapeutic evaluations of these classes of
drugs by solving case studies.

• Identify the discovery process of selected diuretic agents.
Anticoagulants, Antiplatelets and Thrombolytic Agents
Authors: Faruk Khan M. O. , Ruhul Amin A. R. M.
Published: February 2024

This chapter is a comprehensive account of the medicinal chemistry of
anticoagulants, antiplatelets and thrombolytic agents and related drugs. It provides the
mechanism of drug action and detailed structure-activity relationship (SAR) of the
drugs affecting in these clinical areas to give the knowledge base for pharmacists. After
studying this chapter, students will be able to:

• Describe the historical background of the anticoagulants, antiplatelets and
thrombolytic agents and and related drugs.

• Describe the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics (PK), and adverse drug reaction
(ADR) of the anticoagulants, antiplatelets and thrombolytic agents.

• Explain the physiology and pathophysiology of clotting cascades and identify the
components of a blood clot.

• Classify major anticoagulant drugs and their structures and binding.

• Discuss in detail the chemistry and SAR of these drugs.

• Distinguish among drugs used as antiplatelets, anticoagulants and fibrinolytic agents.

• Delineate the clinical significance and therapeutic evaluations of these classes of
drugs by solving case studies.

• Explain the discovery process of a few specific drugs in these classes.
A Review of Tissue Culture Studies on Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal - An Important Medicinal Plant
Authors: Rajasreelatha V. , Thippeswamy M. , Siva Kumar M. , Naga Padmavathi V. , Pullaiah T.
Published: February 2024

Withania somnifera, commonly known as 'Indian ginseng', is a highly
important and valuable medicinal plant in traditional family medicine, containing a
variety of medicinal bioactive molecules for over 3,000 years. Various medicinal
properties of plants are attributed to steroidal lactones (withanolides) present in plants.
Its commercial cultivation is hampered by low seed viability and germination rates.
Tissue culture techniques can play an important role in the preservation, clonal
propagation, and qualitative improvement of this medicinal plant. In vitro shoot
differentiation and micropropagation of W. somnifera from various small excised
explants such as hypocotyl and cotyledon leaves, shoot tips, nodes and internodes.
Optimal normal growth, reproduction, and development of W. somnifera through the in
vitro processes of morphogenesis of many tissues may differ in several different plants
based on key plant nutrient requirements. The current review provides a comprehensive
study on the development of W. somnifera tissue culture research activity. It also
discusses the medicinal properties of this plant.
The Green Treasure -Jatropha curcas
Authors: Arafa Rasha N. , A. A. Elsayh Sayed
Published: February 2024

Jatropha curcas plants are a rich source of several natural components, the
great majority of which are utilized for human health and the treatment of various
ailments. J. curcas is a perennial plant in the family Euphorbiaceae that is gaining
commercial significance due to its various industrial and medical uses. The purpose of
this study was to improve the micropropagation conditions of J. curcas by using single
node explants using the tissue culture technique.