bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
QUALITY OF DESIGNS AND FEATURES OF SMALL URBAN GREEN SPACES IN PETALING JAYA TOWN, MALAYSIA
Authors: A.A. Fatiah , Ponrahono Zakiah , Zakariya Khalilah
Published: May 2021

Small Urban Green Spaces (SUGS) mushroomed in dense cities as a scaled down version of larger parks. In the past, SUGS are often abandoned, or their quality is often overlooked. The purpose of this study is to explore the design and features to make a good quality SUGS. Five experts were approached with a weightage evaluation to rate its quality based on selected criteria's; Accessibility, Attractiveness, Functionality, and Safety. Each criterion had a variable to measure the construct. Findings from the expert evaluation showed that SUGS were rated medium or low overall quality. The variables that obtained the highest score and attained high-quality ratings were Obstacles (Safety criteria), General Maintenance (Attractiveness criteria), and Play Area (Accessibility criteria). Interview with park users revealed that they preferred the "presence of trees," "well-maintained environment," and "walking path accessibility." The least preferred attributes were "poor maintenance," "dangerous walking path," and "negative perception of safety." Overall, to ensure the quality of SUGS attention should be placed on the Accessibility of its features (e.g., walking path and play area), the attractiveness of the park (e.g., vegetation and maintenance), the functionality of the features (e.g., sports facilities) and perception of Safety (e.g., absence of obstacles).
Índices temporales del electrocardiograma en bovinos Holstein a diferentes edades y de uno y de otro sexo
Authors: Pompa Núñez Alberto , Pompa Rodríguez Dania Yusimí
Published: May 2021

Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo establecer índices temporales entre los períodos de reposo y de actividad de cada porción cardíaca y del corazón en su conjunto, en bovinos Holstein a diferentes edades y de uno y de otro sexo. Para ello, se seleccionó una muestra de 150 ejemplares clínicamente sanos, de diferentes grupos etarios; muestreados durante la época de seca. Se empleó la derivación bipolar base-ápice (B-A) y el electrocardiógrafo fue calibrado con una señal de 1 mV/cm., con una velocidad de corrida del papel de 25 mm/s. Como resultado se obtuvo que los índices temporales, reposo/actividad del corazón (Rc), reposo/actividad de los ventrículos (Rv) y reposo actividad de las aurículas (RA), constituyen en los animales machos una fracción constante en las edades iniciales y sólo decrece el RA en los sementales adultos. En las hembras los índices RC y RV se incrementan de terneras a novillas y en RA no se producen diferencias, pero los tres disminuyen en las vacas lactantes (p<0,05). El índice reposo de las aurículas/reposo de los ventrículos (RAV), se mantiene constante, independientemente de la edad y del sexo. Se concluye que, entre las fracciones temporales reposo/actividad del electrocardiograma (ECG), se establecen proporciones relativamente constantes, las cuales se modifican por la edad y la producción láctea, excepto el RAV, lo que permite emplear estos índices como referencia para diagnosticar alteraciones en la función cardíaca en la especie estudiada y para evaluar fármacos en los Biomodelos de animales destinados a estos fines.
¿Cómo el Lactato tiene un efecto inmunosupresor en la sepsis?
Authors: Aguayo-Moscoso Santiago Xavier , Lascano-Cañas Laisa Micaela , Montalvo-Villagómez Mario , Jara González Fernando , Vélez-Paez Pablo Andrés , Velarde-Montero Gustavo , Torres-Cabezas Pedro , Vélez-Paez Jorge Luis
Published: May 2021

El sistema inmunitario es nuestro medio de defensa contra la sepsis, el cual mantiene la homeostasis a través de diversas funciones que requieren un control preciso de las vías celulares y metabólicas. Tal es así, que se han definido mejor estas vías metabólicas: las células inmunes dependen de la β-oxidación y la fosforilación oxidativa como fuentes de energía para la producción de ATP para conservar el equilibrio celular. Sin embargo, una vez estimulados, los leucocitos cambian su metabolismo a través del efecto Warburg, por lo que hay aumento en la glucólisis aeróbica seguido de la producción de lactato. Se ha determinado, como el lactato puede tener un efecto inmunosupresor en el microambiente y como estos cambios metabólicos conllevan a la supresión inmune y la progresión de la infección. Comprender los factores que intervienen en esta relación entre el sistema inmunitario y el lactato aportará nuevos conocimientos para modular la inflamación, la inmunidad celular, recuperación en los procesos sépticos y avances en la terapéutica. Palabras clave: Lactato, inmunosupresión, sepsis, efecto Warburg. (DeCS-BIREME)
Major epigenetic factors associated with the novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) severity
Authors: Mhawesh Ahmed A , Muneam Hamid Daniah , Ghasemian Abdolmajid
Published: May 2021

The worldwide spread and high rate of viral transmission and related morbidity and mortality of Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a crisis. Some epigenetic determinants predispose individuals to severe infection. Patients with prior chronic medical illnesses (hypertension, diabetes, lupus, and chronic obstructive lung disease) are highly susceptible to the infection. The aging and diabetes pandemic possibly exacerbate the COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 pandemic by enhancing COVID-19 associated comorbidities. COVID-19 utilizes several proteins for tackling the host immune response associated with enhancing comorbidities. The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a significant receptor for SARS-CoV-2, which significantly expresses higher among individuals with comorbidities and under stress conditions. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are also prone to be susceptible to the disease. Viral infections cause a defect in the DNA methylation in lupus, causing further ACE2 hypomethylation and overexpression, leading to viral binding and cytokine storm and tissue damage during COVID-19 infection. The microRNAs (miRNAs) epigenetics regulations also play a critical role in the suppression of immune responses.
Meanwhile, viral proteins interplays with the host cell are conferred primarily through TGF-β and HIF-1 signaling, endocytosis, autophagy, and Toll-like receptor signaling RIG-I signaling, Il-17 signaling, and fatty acid oxidation/degradation. Furthermore, the COVID19 patient's metabolic states determine the infection severity. Noticeably, ten human metabolic proteins, including SGTA, SPECC1, FGL2, PHB, STAT3, BCL2L1, CAV1, JUN, PPP1CA, and XPO1, interact with the SARSE-CoV-2. Interactions between SARSCoV's spike protein-containing lipid-rich membrane compartments and epigenetic modulations are considered targets to inhibit the viral infection. Therefore, it seems that epigenetics plays a substantial role in the COVID-19 severity. Future in-depth studies will be promising. Vaccine design, particularly regarding ACE viral receptor monoclonal antibodies, is a proposal alongside adhering to personal hygiene.
Using Machine Learning Techniques to Predict Factors Contributing to the Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome in Tehran: Cohort Study
Authors: Hosseini-Esfahani Firoozeh , Alafchi Behnaz , Cheraghi Zahra , Doosti-Irani Amin , Mirmiran Parvin , Khalili Davood , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: May 2021

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a major contributor to cardiovascular disease and diabetes, is considered to be among the most common public health problems worldwide.

Objective

We aimed to identify and rank the most important nutritional and nonnutritional factors contributing to the development of MetS using a data-mining method.

Methods

This prospective study was performed on 3048 adults (aged ≥20 years) who participated in the fifth follow-up examination of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, who were followed for 3 years. MetS was defined according to the modified definition of the National Cholesterol Education Program/Adult Treatment Panel III. The importance of variables was obtained by the training set using the random forest model for determining factors with the greatest contribution to developing MetS.

Results

Among the 3048 participants, 701 (22.9%) developed MetS during the study period. The mean age of the participants was 44.3 years (SD 11.8). The total incidence rate of MetS was 229.9 (95% CI 278.6-322.9) per 1000 person-years and the mean follow-up time was 40.5 months (SD 7.3). The incidence of MetS was significantly (P<.001) higher in men than in women (27% vs 20%). Those affected by MetS were older, married, had diabetes, with lower levels of education, and had a higher BMI (P<.001). The percentage of hospitalized patients was higher among those with MetS than among healthy people, although this difference was only statistically significant in women (P=.02). Based on the variable importance and multiple logistic regression analyses, the most important determinants of MetS were identified as history of diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 6.3, 95% CI 3.9-10.2, P<.001), BMI (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0-1.2, P<.001), age (OR 1.0, 95% CI 1.0-1.03, P<.001), female gender (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.38-0.63, P<.001), and dietary monounsaturated fatty acid (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.94-0.99, P=.04).

Conclusions

Based on our findings, the incidence rate of MetS was significantly higher in men than in women in Tehran. The most important determinants of MetS were history of diabetes, high BMI, older age, male gender, and low dietary monounsaturated fatty acid intake.
Change in Glycemic Control for Patients Enrolled in a Membership-Based Primary Care Program: Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: Lesser Lenard I , Behal Raj
Published: May 2021

Background

Both primary care practices based on the chronic care model (CCM) and digital therapeutics have been shown to improve the care of patients with diabetes.

Objective

The aim of this observational study was to examine the change in diabetes control for patients enrolled in a membership-based primary care service that is based on the CCM.

Methods

Using a diabetes registry, we analyzed the change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) for patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (initial HbA1c≥9%). All patients had access to a technology-enhanced primary care practice built on the CCM.

Results

The registry included 621 patients diagnosed with uncontrolled diabetes. All patients had at least two HbA1c measurements, with the average time between the first and last measurement of 1.2 years (SD 0.4). The average starting value of HbA1c was 10.7, which decreased to 8.7, corresponding to a reduction of 2.03 (P<.001). Secondary analyses showed statistically significant reductions in total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Conclusions

Patients with initially uncontrolled diabetes who undergo care in a technology-enhanced primary care practice based on the CCM have long-term clinically meaningful reductions in HbA1c.
Association Between Public Opinion and Malaysian Government Communication Strategies About the COVID-19 Crisis: Content Analysis of Image Repair Strategies in Social Media
Authors: Masngut Nasaai , Mohamad Emma
Published: May 2021

Background

The COVID-19 health crisis has posed an unprecedented challenge for governments worldwide to manage and communicate about the pandemic effectively, while maintaining public trust. Good leadership image in times of a health emergency is paramount to ensure public confidence in governments’ abilities to manage the crisis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify types of image repair strategies utilized by the Malaysian government in their communication about COVID-19 in the media and analyze public responses to these messages on social media.

Methods

Content analysis was employed to analyze 120 media statements and 382 comments retrieved from Facebook pages of 2 mainstream newspapers—Berita Harian and The Star. These media statements and comments were collected within a span of 6 weeks prior to and during the first implementation of Movement Control Order by the Malaysian Government. The media statements were analyzed according to Image Repair Theory to categorize strategies employed in government communications related to COVID-19 crisis. Public opinion responses were measured using modified lexicon-based sentiment analysis to categorize positive, negative, and neutral statements.

Results

The Malaysian government employed all 5 Image Repair Theory strategies in their communications in both newspapers. The strategy most utilized was reducing offensiveness (75/120, 62.5%), followed by corrective action (30/120, 25.0%), evading responsibilities (10/120, 8.3%), denial (4/120, 3.3%), and mortification (1/120, 0.8%). This study also found multiple substrategies in government media statements including denial, shifting blame, provocation, defeasibility, accident, good intention, bolstering, minimization, differentiation, transcendence, attacking accuser, resolve problem, prevent recurrence, admit wrongdoing, and apologize. This study also found that 64.7% of public opinion was positive in response to media statements made by the Malaysian government and also revealed a significant positive association (P=.04) between image repair strategies utilized by the Malaysian government and public opinion.

Conclusions

Communication in the media may assist the government in fostering positive support from the public. Suitable image repair strategies could garner positive public responses and help build trust in times of crisis.
Development and Validation of a Mobile Game for Culturally Sensitive Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Education in Tanzania: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Malamsha Maria Proches , Sauli Elingarami , Luhanga Edith Talina
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Globally, 3 out of 20 children experience sexual abuse before the age of 18 years. Educating children about sexual abuse and prevention is an evidence-based strategy that is recommended for ending child sexual abuse. Digital games are increasingly being used to influence healthy behaviors in children and could be an efficient and friendly approach to educating children about sexual abuse prevention. However, little is known on the best way to develop a culturally sensitive game that targets children in Africa—where sexual education is still taboo—that would be engaging, effective, and acceptable to parents and caretakers.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop a socioculturally appropriate, mobile-based game for educating young children (<5 years) and parents and caretakers in Tanzania on sexual abuse prevention.

METHODS

 HappyToto children’s game was co-designed with 111 parents and caretakers (females: n=58, 52.3%; male: n=53, 47.7%) of children below 18 years of age and 24 child experts in Tanzania through surveys and focus group discussions conducted from March 2020 to April 2020. From these, we derived an overview of topics, sociocultural practices, social environment, and game interface designs that should be considered when designing child sexual abuse prevention (CSAP) education interventions. We also conducted paper prototyping and storyboarding sessions for the game’s interface, storylines, and options. To validate the application’s prototype, 32 parents (females: n=18, 56%; males: n=14, 44%) of children aged 3-5 years and 5 children (females: n=2, 40%; males: n=3, 60%) of the same age group played the game for half an hour on average. The parents undertook a pre-post intervention assessment on confidence and ability to engage in CSAP education conversations, as well as exit surveys on the usability and sociocultural acceptability of the game, while children were quizzed on the topics covered and their enjoyment of the game.

RESULTS

Parents and caregivers showed interest in the developed game during the conducted surveys, and each parent on average navigated through all the parts of the game. The confidence level of parents in talking about CSAP increased from an average of 3.56 (neutral) before using the game to 4.9 (confident) after using the game. The ability scores, calculated based on a range of topics included in CSAP education talks with children, also increased from 5.67 (out of 10) to 8.8 (out of 10) after the game was played. Both confidence level and ability scores were statistically significant (P<.001). All 5 children were interested in the game and enjoyed the game-provided activities.

CONCLUSIONS

The HappyToto game can thus be an effective technology-based intervention for improving the knowledge and skills of parents and children in CSAP education.
Machine Learning Approaches to Retrieve High-Quality, Clinically Relevant Evidence From the Biomedical Literature: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Abdelkader Wael , Navarro Tamara , Parrish Rick , Cotoi Chris , Germini Federico , Iorio Alfonso , Haynes R Brian , Lokker Cynthia
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

The rapid growth of the biomedical literature makes identifying strong evidence a time-consuming task. Applying machine learning to the process could be a viable solution that limits effort while maintaining accuracy.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the research was to summarize the nature and comparative performance of machine learning approaches that have been applied to retrieve high-quality evidence for clinical consideration from the biomedical literature.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of studies that applied machine learning techniques to identify high-quality clinical articles in the biomedical literature. Multiple databases were searched to July 2020. Extracted data focused on the applied machine learning model, steps in the development of the models, and model performance.

RESULTS

From 3918 retrieved studies, 10 met our inclusion criteria. All followed a supervised machine learning approach and applied, from a limited range of options, a high-quality standard for the training of their model. The results show that machine learning can achieve a sensitivity of 95% while maintaining a high precision of 86%.

CONCLUSIONS

Machine learning approaches perform well in retrieving high-quality clinical studies. Performance may improve by applying more sophisticated approaches such as active learning and unsupervised machine learning approaches.
Validation of Sea Surface Temperature from GCOM-C Satellite Using iQuam Datasets and MUR-SST in Indonesian Waters
Authors: Sukresno Bambang , Jatisworo Dinarika , Hanintyo Rizki
Published: May 2021

Sea surface temperature (SST) is an important variable in oceanography. One of the SST data can be obtained from the Global Observation Mission-Climate (GCOM-C) satellite. Therefore, this data needs to be validated before being applied in various fields. This study aimed to validate SST data from the GCOM-C satellite in the Indonesian Seas. Validation was performed using the data of Multi-sensor Ultra-high Resolution sea surface temperature (MUR-SST) and in situ sea surface temperature Quality Monitor (iQuam). The data used are the daily GCOM-C SST dataset from January to December 2018, as well as the daily dataset from MUR-SST and iQuam in the same period. The validation process was carried out using the three-way error analysis method. The results showed that the accuracy of the GCOM-C SST was 0.37oC.
Greenhouse Gas Emission from Rice field in Indonesia: Challenge for future research and development
Authors: Ariani Miranti , Haryono Eko , Hanudin Eko
Published: May 2021

Rice is an essential crop in Indonesia. Any aspects of rice to increase productivity have been well studied and documented; however, there are still lacking well-documented studies on its environmental aspects, including climate change. Many researches might already be conducted, but only a few have been published in a peer-reviewed journal. There is still a lack of robust data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the rice field in Indonesia, factors affecting and the technology on how to reduce it. From the reviewed publications, it was found out that research only conducted under a controlled environmental setting. More research on understanding the controlling factors (e.g., water management, rice cultivar, soil types, and fertilizer) of GHG emission from rice field is still needed. The result will introduce a sustainable farming practice,  with low in GHG emissions, high in productivity, simple to apply and generate more income to farmers. This review has identified the gaps for future research and development in Indonesia. The research should meet the need, either national or global strategies. Development of a new farming practice will succeed in the presence of government policies. Therefore an intensive interdisciplinary approach between researcher and other stakeholders should be conducted.
Hybrid Learning Here to Stay!
Authors: Abi Raad Maurice E. , Odhabi Hamad.
Published: May 2021

The pursuit of knowledge is a defining factor for the current civilization. Hybrid learning represents an evolution of this pursuit since it involves delivering learning through in-person and remote instruction simultaneously. Hybrid learning is here to stay due to its benefits that facilitate education delivery in modern contexts while focusing on meeting learning objectives. However, it suffers from some drawbacks and shortcomings that impact its adoption. However, through a variety of viable approaches, it is possible to address the said drawbacks and shortcomings and increase the adoption of hybrid learning in the future. Consequently, hybrid learning holds great promise for the future of education as it exploits advancements made in the recent past to meet the needs of learners in a variety of contexts without compromising the attainment of desired objectives.
Engaged histories : Wendat women's souvenir arts of cultural preservation and entrepreneurial invention
Authors:   , de Stecher Annette
Published: May 2021

The nineteenth century souvenir arts of the Wendat (Huron) women of Wendake, Quebec, works of virtuosity in technique and design, were sought after as collectibles by European visitors and Euro-Canadians, and today appear in substantial numbers in European, Canadian, and American museum collections. Although souvenir wares have been the object of study in the fields of anthropology and art history, an in-depth systematic analysis of the tradition, situated within a history of Wendat visual arts, had yet to be written. This study addresses two problems: First, the lack of a corpus of material to place nineteenth-century souvenir arts in the context of art from earlier periods created for ceremonial and community use and drawn both from archaeological and ethnological collections. Second, it addresses the need to explore the relationship among modes of production and to carry out a close reading of the imagery and women’s egalitarian status in Wendat society from pre- and early-contact periods through the nineteenth century. 1 argue that souvenir arts, produced during a period of intense change and challenges to Wendat identity and economic self-sufficiency caused by increasing settler populations and colonial pressures of assimilation, offer a site for the exploration of Wendat women’s economic and social roles in their community. I base these arguments in archival and historical research and in consultation with Wendat community members, who have provided important insight into symbolic content of the souvenir works and their significance for the Wendat as well as for European buyers. The development of souvenir arts was intertwined with the diplomatic and political agenda of Wendat community leaders, reflecting Wendat women’s agency in creating commercial works that inspired the admiration of European collectors, and could serve as ceremonial gifts that contributed to harmonious relations with settler communities.
Settlement and bearing capacity of water-saturated soils of foundations of finite width under static impact
Authors: Ter-Martirosyan Zaven G. , Ter-Martirosyan Armen Z. , Othman Ahmad
Published: May 2021

Introduction. In case of brief exposure to static loads or dynamic loads, in conditions of absence of drainage, distribution of total stresses between the skeleton of soil and pore gas-containing water should be taken in account. The situation of the stress-strain state of the base is further complicated when we consider the degree of water-saturation of soil of the foundation (0.8 < Sr ≤ 1). The aim of the study is to pose and solve problem of the stress-strain state of a water-saturated soil massif, Including settlement and bearing capacity of a water-saturated base of a foundation of finite width, depending on the degree of water saturation of soils, taking into account the linear and nonlinear properties of the skeleton of soil and the compressibility of pore gas-containing water.

Materials and methods. Henckyʼs system of physical equations are used as a calculation model to describe the relationship between deformation and stresses of soil, which takes into account the influence of the average stress on the deformation and strength properties of the soil. This system allows us to represent the linear deformation of the soil as the sum of the volumetric and shear components of the soil of this deformation. In addition allows us too to determine the deformation of the layer of soil, as part of the compressible thickness of the base of foundation with finite width under conditions of free deformations.

Results. Depending on the linear and nonlinear deformation parameters, the settlement can be developed with a damped curve (S – p) and stabilize, and can be developed with a non-damped curve (S – p) and moved to the stage of progressive settlement.

Conclusions. Solutions have been made for cases when the water-saturation of the base soils changes in the range of 0.8 to 1.0. It is shown that the settlement and bearing capacity of a water-saturated base significantly depends on the degree of water saturation of soils.
Updating of dry shielding of nuclear power plant reactor vessel
Authors: Dorf Valery A. , Pergamenchik Boris K.
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Dry shielding is a cylindrical structure made of serpentinite concrete in a metal casing with an inner diameter of 5.6 m, an outer diameter of 6.7 m, and a height of 5.3 m, which surrounds the VVER reactor vessel in the vicinity of the core. The purpose of serpentinite concrete, containing an increased amount of chemically bound water, is to soften the spectrum of the neutron flux outside the reactor, increasing the fraction of thermal neutrons in the spectrum, which is necessary for the operation of ionization chambers (IR) of the reactor control and protection system. Dry shielding also performs the functions of radiation and thermal protection, reducing the flux of radiation on ordinary concrete of biological protection. Before the installation of the dry shielding in the reactor shaft, heat treatment (drying) of concrete is carried out at temperatures up to 250 °С to remove unbound water in order to avoid radiolysis. Quality control of concreting and then heat treatment is carried out using a radioisotope device — a neutron moisture meter. These works are very lengthy and costly. Materials and methods. The design of the dry shielding casing was considered in order to perform additional perforation in order to avoid the formation of air pockets during concreting. The possibility of using modern plasticizing additives was considered in order to minimize the consumption of mixing water and, as a result, free water in the body of serpentinite concrete. Results. The possibility of exclusion of the stages of quality control of concreting and heat treatment in their traditional form is shown. Additional perforation of the metal casing, its internal diaphragms in problem areas, the use of a mixture of 20 cm slump or more allows you to completely eliminate the formation of internal voids. According to preliminary estimates, given the intensity of radiation in the NW for a modern reactor with a capacity of 1200 MW, the intensity of the release of hydrogen outside the shell due to radiolysis does not pose any danger. The concentration of hydrogen in the air surrounding the dry shielding is many orders less of magnitude than the dangerous 4 %. Conclusions. The cost of work on the construction of the SZ power unit of a nuclear power plant with a capacity of 1000–1200 MW can be reduced by 70–100 million rubles, the duration of work by 5 months.
A review on Tinospora cordifolia: as an Immunomodulating agent
Authors: Devi Pritika
Published: May 2021

Guduchi is a plant also known as Tinospora cordifolia, having heart shaped leave, an herb of the family Menispermaceae native of hot areas of the Indian subcontinent. In our classical Ayurvedic texts, it is indicated to be beneficial in treating various types of diseases like skin disorders, different types of fever, jaundice & gout. Guduchi also claimed to have various properties as an anti-oxidant, antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, osteoprotective, radioprotective, anti-anxiety, adaptogenic agent, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, athrombolytic agent, anti-diarrheal, anti-ulcer, antimicrobial and anti-cancer agent. Several experimental and clinical studies based on available reports, present paper is an attempt to assemble the information on immunomodulating property of Tinospora cordifolia
Low Embolic Risk from Short Duration Atrial Fibrillation following Anatomic Lung Resection
Authors: Jiang Boxiang , Linden Philip , Oliu Alejandro , Towe Christopher , Perry Yaron , Worrell Stephanie
Published: May 2021

Objectives

There is no consensus regarding the merits of anticoagulation following short duration atrial arrhythmia and anatomic lung resection. We hypothesized that the risk of embolic event following episodes of atrial fibrillation (AF) lasting less than 48 hours is low and even with an elevated CHA2DS2-VASC score should not incur the risk of long-term full dose anticoagulation contrary to recommendations.

Design & Intervention

A retrospective review was performed of a prospectively maintained database of all patients undergoing anatomic lung resection at a single institution from 2014 to 2019. Patients who had new onset post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) were queried as to their co-morbidities, the length of arrhythmia, discharge with anticoagulation, and any post-operative embolic events.

Main Outcome Measures

There were 565 patients who underwent anatomic lung resection. 40 patients (7.1%) developed new POAF that lasted a median of one day. In 32 patients (80%), POAF lasted for less than 48 hours. There were 28 males and 12 females, median age of 73 years. These patients underwent segmentectomy (2/40), lobectomy (24/40) and pneumonectomy (14/40). Twenty-nine patients were discharged home without anticoagulation. Median follow-up was 22 month (range 1.3 – 62.8 month). Two patients had embolic events and these two were discharged home without anticoagulation. The overall incidence rate of thromboembolic events was 3.2% per person year.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the risk of arterial embolic events is low in patients with new, short duration atrial fibrillation post anatomical lung resection. Anticoagulation may not be necessary in these patients and can be given selectively.
Evaluation of Efficacy of Cucumis melo in Gentamycin and CPD Induced Urolithiasis on Rats
Authors: Patel Dhaval M , Patel Advaita B , Patel Bhumi R , Patel Deepa R , Patel Nishith K
Published: May 2021

Evaluation of the efficacy of methanolic extract of Cucumis melo in urolithiasis induced by gentamycin and calculi producing diet on Wistar rats. Gentamycin (40 mg/kg, subcutaneously) and calculi-producing diet (CPD) was fed to induce urolithiasis on Wistar rats. The effect of oral administration of methanolic extract of Cucumis melo seed on calcium oxalate urolithiasis has been studied and is compared with the effect of oral administration of Cystone as standard on Wistar rats. Gentamycin and CPD feeding resulted in hyperoxaluria and calcium oxalate deposition as well as increased renal excretion of calcium and oxalate. Supplementation with methanolic extract of Cucumis melo seed reduced the elevated urinary oxalate, showing a regulatory action on endogenous oxalate synthesis. The results indicate that the seed of Cucumis melo is endowed with antiurolithiatic activity.

Keywords: C. melo, Hyperoxaluria, calcium oxalate deposition, cystone, hyperoxaluria, analysis of variance
A Systematic Review on Various Therapeutic Options for Coronavirus Outbreak
Authors: Khan Sharib Raza , Sharma Babita , Bhattacharya Sankha
Published: May 2021

SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2) or coronavirus disease that emerged in Wuhan, China's Hubei province. According to a Wuhan citizen, the virus spread from the Wuhan fish market to humans via a form of waterborne transmission. The WHO proclaimed the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic a global public health emergency in March of the following year. Rather than influencing the individual animals mostly, the movement of humans and a few days later, the infection spread to other parts of the world by the distribution of specimens to animals and by the movement of humans, causing considerable illness in human populations. An estimated one and a total of nearly sixty-eight million two hundred and fifty-six million people have been impacted, including one and a million thousand five hundred and sixty thousand fatalities in more than two hundred countries around the world. As of the present, there are no medicines or vaccinations against the world's first SARS-CoV-2 virus are in clinical trials molecular and cellular studies of CoVs, as well as their care, were reviewed in this latest assessment. Keywords:  SARS-CoV-2, WHO, Global pandemic, Human coronaviruses, Pathogenesis, Treatments
Formulation and Evaluation of Valsartan Solid Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: Chandana M. , Venkata Ramana M. , Rama Rao N.
Published: May 2021

Valsartan is a potent and specific competitive angiotensin II antagonist which is used in the management of hypertension. It is well absorbed following oral administration, with rather poor bioavailability of about 25 %. Peak plasma concentration of valsartan occurs 2-4 hours after ingestion. Optimized VAL_SLNS are prepared by hot homogenization method and spray dried to improve handling processing and stability. Solid state studies such as FTIR indicated absence of any chemical interaction between valsartan and the lipid.

The mean particles size, Polydispersity index (PDI) and entrapment efficiency of optimized formulation (F-05) was found to be 136.5 nm, 0.424, 80.98% respectively. The drug release study from the nano formulation was studied in Phosphate buffer 6.8 for all the formulations F1 F2 F3 F4 and F5. The results demonstrated that V-SLN formulation (F-5) showed biphasic behaviour with an initial burst release followed by a sustained release maximum up to 72-79% till 12 hours. The release curve was found to follow Korsmeyer Peppas model (R2=0.98).

Keywords: hot homogenization, hydrogenated soya phosphatidyl choline, sustained release
The Ethanolic Leaf Extracts of Dissotis multiflora (Sm) Triana and Paullinia pinnata Linn Exert Inhibitory Effect on Escherichia coli Through Membrane Permeabilization, Loss of Intracellular Material, and DNA Fragmentation
Authors: Afagnigni Alian Désiré , Nyegue Maximilienne Ascension , Pracheta Janmeda , Sharma Vinay , Etoa François-Xavier
Published: May 2021

Background: Dissotis multiflora (Sm) Triana and Paullinia pinnata Linn are widely used in Cameroonian traditional medicine to treat infectious diseases. These plants were found to be a reservoir of antioxidant and antimicrobial agents and have the potential to be used in clinic. Objective: To determine the mechanism of action of the ethanolic leaves extracts of Dissotis multiflora and Paullinia pinnata on Escherichia coli. Methodology: The microbroth dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of D. multiflora and P. pinnata ethanolic leaves extracts. The above samples were tested for their rate of killing of E. coli cells at 1 MIC and 2 MICs. Sorbitol protection, outer membrane permeability, loss of 260-nm-absorbing material, fluorescence microscopy, and DNA degradation assay were used to examine the ultrastructural changes in bacteria induced by the extracts. Results: D. multiflora and P. pinnata extracts inhibited bacterial growth with MICs of 390.62 and 781.25 µg/mL respectively, while the MBCs values were found to be 781.25 and 1562.5 µg/mL respectively. Treatment with extracts had shorter kill-time in a time-dependent manner with effect most pronounced at 2 MICs than 1 MIC. The MIC of D. multiflora increased 4x from 390.62 µg/mL after 24 h of incubation to 1562.5 µg/mL after 7 days in the presence of an osmoprotectant indicating the inhibition of synthesis of cell wall constituents. P. pinnata had no effect on cell wall. Both extracts exhibited the greatest leakage and release of DNA materials at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min in concentration-dependent manner. Treated groups had higher values than control. At low concentrations (1/2 MIC and 1 MIC), these extracts effectively permeate the intact outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. Both extract were implicated in DNA fragmentation. Moreover, fluorescent cells observed further confirmed its inhibitory effect against the tested pathogen. The antibacterial action involved disruption of membrane potential, increase of membrane permeabilization, leakage of cellular material, and death suggesting them to be an alternative to antibiotics. Conclusion: These findings contribute to the understanding of the antibacterial inhibitory effect of D. multiflora and P. pinnata.
A Review on Chemical Constituents, Traditional Uses, Pharmacological Studies of Zanthoxylum armatum (Rutaceae)
Authors: Verma Kapil Kumar , Kumar Bhopesh , Raj Hans , Sharma Akanksha
Published: May 2021

Zanthoxylum armatum used as a medicine from ancient time for cure of various diseases such as toothache and problems related to tooth, asthma, used for gum bleeding, fever, dyspepsia, and tonics etc. Phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, diseases, traditional uses etc are explained in this review article .This article have information of the Z. armatum which may have  Phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, diseases, traditional uses etc. Some latest info of Phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, diseases, traditional uses may show clearance in review. Different activities of various diseases known as antioxidants, antinociceptive, antifungal, antinflammtory, hepatoprotective, pesticides, anthelminitic, antiproliferative etc including chemical constituents like resins, 1-alphaphellandrene, linalool, carbonyl compound, methyl n-nonylketone. Linalyl acetate, sesquiterpene, hydrocarbon, tricosaine, dictamine, fragarine, magnoflorine, skimmianine, xanthoplanine. It is expected that more investigation on plant can be done. This review article is helpful to get various important evidence regarding the plant Zanthoxylum armatum which will works as key point for the future investigation. Keywords: Z.armatum, Phytochemistry, traditional uses, pharmacological activities.
A comprehensive review on traditional uses, chemical compositions and pharmacology properties of Achyranthes aspera (Amaranthaceae)
Authors: Verma Kapil Kumar , Sharma Akanksha , Raj Hans , Kumar Bhopesh
Published: May 2021

Achyranthes aspera plant is very useful for the cure and treatment of various diseases of human beings. Different parts of the plants is used to cure various diseases like leprosy, asthma, arthritis, wound, snakebite, dermatological diseases, cardiac disease, kidney stone, gynecological disorder, malaria, gonorrhea, pneumonia, dysentery, rabies, toothache, etc. Phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, diseases, traditional uses of the Achyranthes aspera may explain briefly in review articles with in-vivo and in-vitro studies. This article provided the complete latest information on the Achyranthes aspera which may include Phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, diseases, traditional uses, etc. Some extensions regarding Phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, diseases, traditional uses may explain in this review. Data may have the info about different activities of various diseases such as hepatoprotective, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, thyroid-stimulating, antiperoxidative, abortifacient, antilaprotic, immunomodulators, contraceptives, etc. It may have many chemical constituents Glycosides, saponins, carbohydrates, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, amino acid, ecdysterone, hentriacontane. Some chemical constituents which are Glycosides, saponins, carbohydrates, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, amino acid, ecdysterone, and hentriacontane of the Achyranthes aspera used in high range throughout the world. There should be many investigations for these further clinical trials. This plant may be investigated on the next level for a novel drug system. Keywords: Pharmacological activities, traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, clinical trials.
The Screening models for antiepileptic drugs: A Review
Authors: Gaikwad Pooja Popat , Adak Vishal S. , Shete Rajkumar V.
Published: May 2021

Considering the prevalence of epilepsy and the problems associated with currently available antiepileptic drugs like side effects, resistance, safety issue and high cost, herbal medicine with fewer complications could be very appropriate alternative. Therefore in the present study, we have examined the antiepileptic properties of ethanolic extract of leaves in mice using maximal electroshock seizers (MES)test, Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), induced seizures, strychnine induced convulsion, Isoniazid-induced convulsions, Picrotoxin-induced convulsions, Kainic acid (KA) model etc.There is increased concern on agents for epilepsy disease modification and prevention. To solve these unmet needs, the research scientist must have a thorough knowledge of available animal models of epilepsy so that he can pick up the best model for his research. In this article, we are reviewing the diversity of animal models of epilepsy and their implications in antiepileptic drug discovery.

Keywords: Epilepsy, animal model, seizures,
Dimensions of trust in different forms of science communication: the role of information sources and channels used to acquire science knowledge
Authors: Brondi Sonia , Pellegrini Giuseppe , Guran Peter , Fero Martin , Rubin Andrea
Published: May 2021

This paper investigates the dimensions of trust and the role of information sources and channels in developing differentiated forms of science communication. The discussions from two public consultations carried out in Italy and Slovakia about controversial science-related topics were quali-quantitatively content analysed. The results show that scientific knowledge pervades diverse communication spheres, producing differentiated paths of trust in science. Each path is determined by topics (environment or health-related), information sources and channels preferred, and specific features of the multifaceted notion of trust. The contribution discusses cross-national commonalities and specificities and proposes implications for science communication.
Rethinking science communication in a changing landscape
Authors: Kupper Frank , Moreno-Castro Carolina , Fornetti Alessandra
Published: May 2021

Science communication continues to grow, develop and change, as a practice and field of research. The boundaries between science and the rest of society are blurring. Digitalization transforms the public sphere. This JCOM special issue aims to rethink science communication in light of the changing science communication landscape. How to characterize the emerging science communication ecosystem in relation to the introduction of new media and actors involved? What new practices are emerging? How is the quality of science communication maintained or improved? We present a selection of papers that provide different perspectives on these questions and challenges.
Development of a digital service for real estate transactions
Authors: Sternik Sergey , Gareev Ilnur , Akhmetgaliev Timur
Published: May 2021

The majority of present-day aggregators of the Russian real estate market fail to meet modern requirements and trends. Currently, the information support of real estate valuation activities is generally assigned to individual values, rather than the valuation community as a whole. The absence, insufficiency, unreliability of the market information makes it difficult to determine the cadastral value of the properties as well fulfill the requirements prescribed by the existing methodological recommendations. The main problem in developing digital platforms is that the value of the digital platform proposition can only be adequately assessed by the platform developer, while the complexity of creating a quality digital platform may exceed the benefits for the developer. In this regard, we set a goal to analyze the aggregators of the real estate market in terms of the shortcomings, whose systematization is to lay the basis for a consolidated real estate market database of Russian Federation. In this article, selected digital platforms were analyzed with regards to meeting specified criteria using a multi-criterial rating system. The results of the study represent the necessary criteria, conclusions concerning compliance with certain criteria based on the analysis of classifieds, as well as recommendations for the use of innovative technologies to ensure the most advanced operation of real estate market aggregators. In addition, several forms of information exchange between market players and viable solutions to common problems are suggested. A method of developing a consolidated real estate market database was developed. It is based on innovative information technologies and the actionable way of implementing software solutions designated for automation and structuring of real estate data.
Green Building in Russia as well as its problems and solutions
Authors: Tuzov Nikolai
Published: May 2021

The article deals with the issues of environmental (“green”) construction in Russia in relation to the tasks of low-rise and individual development. The article describes the history of the formation of the ecological construction market in Russia and abroad, gives a general classification and the main directions of its development. The ad-vantages of green construction, the problems that hinder the rapid development of ecological construction and the stimulating factors of such development are described. The applicable standards of green construction are indicated, both established by the state in the form of normative legal acts, and voluntary, and the advantages of following environmental standards are shown. Practical examples of ecological construction and problems faced by developers in practice are given. The concepts of Passive House, energy-efficient house and non-volatile house are considered in detail, indicating the ways to use the elements of such concepts in the implementation of real construction at the moment, including some practical examples of technical and technological solutions, as well as ways to further improve them. Examples of low-rise buildings currently under construction using standards and principles of ecological construction are given. The Russian standards of green construction are considered in de-tail, with references to specific regulations and other sources regulating the issues of ecological construction, and the ways of their further development and improvement are indicated. A mathematical model of the order of construction of eco-mobility facilities is proposed, where the capital return indicator is selected as an important criterion, which is determined taking into account the different times of costs for the objects being introduced. Its maximization leads to the choice of such an option, which will be characterized by the largest intermediate volume of input objects, as well as the smallest amount of reduced capital investments, i.e. their more rational dynamics. Thus, this indicator characterizes the efficiency of using capital investments, as well as their return as a result of reducing construction in progress.