bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of the parameters of the submerged cultivation of micromycete Trichoderma asperellum VKPM F-1323 for obtaining spore forms of culture
Authors:   Kazan National Research Technological University, Ziganshin Danis D. , Sirotkin Alexander S. ,   Kazan National Research Technological University, Ostroumova Zlata A. ,   Kazan National Research Technological University, Egorshina Anna A. ,   LLC "Organic Park", Lukyantsev Mikhail A. ,   LLC "Organic Park"
Published: March 2021

The basic physical parameters of the cultivation of micromycete Trichoderma asperellum VKPM F-1323 are determined on complex nutrient media. The choice of the object of study was due to its antagonistic activity with attitude to many phytopathogenic fungi such as Ascochyta pisi, Cercospora beticola, Claviceps purpurea, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Alternaria alternata, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium graminearum, Passalora fulva, Verticillum dahliae, as well as growth-stimulating activity with attitude to plants, suggesting a motivation for the use of Trichoderma asperellum VKPM F-1323 as the basis for biological products used in agriculture. During the experiment, the nutrient medium composition (g/l) was used: molasses – 20, yeast extract – 7, NaNO3 – 2, K2HPO4 – 1, KCl – 0.5, MgSO4 – 0.5, FeSO4 – 0.01. Before sterilization, the pH was adjusted to 7.5. Cultivation was carried out at a temperature of 27 °C with constant stirring and aeration in autoclaved laboratory fermenters with a working volume of 2 l. The cultivation of micromycete in a liquid nutrient medium was chosen in connection with the rapid progress of the process. In addition, unlike solid-phase cultivation, the deep one allows accumulating in the finished product form numerous secondary metabolites with antagonistic activity against phytopathogens, as well as growth-stimulating activity with attitude to plants. In the work, the values of mixing speed, aeration intensity, and initial pH of the medium are determined, which determine the maximum productivity of the process according to the conidia concentration (titer) of the studied culture. During the cultivation process, the pH level was monitored without maintaining it during the process, since it is known that a change in pH values characterizes the course of the cultivation process with the formation of spore forms, and the initial pH value is an important factor in the conidia formation of Trichoderma fungi. It is shown that during cultivation for 72 hours the maximum concentration of conidia is achieved for a stirring speed of 700 rpm, without reflective baffles (chippers) in the design of the fermenter, aeration intensity of 0.25 l/l of medium×min and the initial pH of the nutrient medium 7.0. Subject to the above conditions, the concentration of conidia is 1.35 ± 0.09 conidia /ml.
Critical features and some properties polymer compositions containing high-dispersal hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan
Authors:   Altai Federal Research and Production Center, Popok Vladimir N. , Popok Nikolay I. ,   Altai Federal Research and Production Center
Published: March 2021

The use of hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan can in mixed energy compositions based on various polymer binders faces a number of problems caused by the specific properties of this component: resistance under normal conditions most polymorphic modifications of the crystalline product, the difficulty of obtaining a crystalline product of the required dispersal and polymorphic modification, re-crystalization and remodification of the product in polymer mixtures compositions, increased ability to form crystals with most traditional components of energy compositions. Relatively low and selective, in comparison, for example, with compositions based on octogen, the increase in energy efficiency when using hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan in energy compositions with polymer binders of different nature, puts forward the task of simultaneously addressing the issues of reducing energy losses when burning energy compositions in energy installations of various purposes. The solution of these issues is associated with the use of high-dispersal and nanoscale fillers in the compositions of mixed energy materials. For the use of hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan in compositions, along with the problem of choosing a polymer binder, solving the issues of obtaining a crystal product required modification and different variance, including nanoscale, experimental research is needed: critical characteristics of filling polymer compositions (maximum degree of filling; filling corresponding to percolation transitions), their effect on basic properties energy compositions – characteristics of combustion, physical-mechanical and explosive characteristics, physical and chemical stability of properties, etc.; to assess the prospects of using alternative compositions based on the co-crystalyzates of hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan with other components of mixed compositions. Taking into account the above and in the development of earlier works, the article provides some results of the definition of critical volume – maximum and critical for the formation of percolatin cluster – degrees of filling polymer compositions with inert hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan powders of varying variances, including high-dispersal and nanoscale. In addition, data on the relationship of critical characteristics with the characteristics of combustion, physical-mechanical, rheological characteristics of compositions are presented. Data on the effect of high-dispersal and nanoscale powders of hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan on shock-wave sensitivity of samples of mixed energy materials are presented. The results of tests of alternative homogeneous energy compositions based on the co-crystalyzates of hexanitrohexaazaizowurcitan with a brief analysis of the prospects of their use are also presented.
The study of the antioxidant activity of the antiulcerous plant composition and its components
Authors:   All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Ferubko Ekaterina V. , Zelenkov Valery N. ,   All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Dergaeva Tamara D. ,   All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lapin Anatoly A. ,   Kazan Power University
Published: March 2021

At present, the expansion of research to find sources for obtaining new effective and safe medicines of plant origin, including those used in gastroenterological practice, is a pressing task of medical science, considering that the range of medicinal plant drugs used in practical health care is more than 40%. The article presents the results of biochemical study of total antioxidant activity of anti-ulcer collection of plant origin and its individual components. We show that it consists of the leaves of the planter large (Plantago major L.), grass of a sushchenitsa uliginose (Gnaphalium uliginosum L.), rhizomes and roots of the devisil high (Inula helenium L.), flowers of the chamomile pharmacy (Matricaria chamomilla L.), the roots of licorice naked (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.), grass of bird's mountain (Polygonum aviculare L.), leaves of the nettle (Urtica dioica L.), fruits of a mountain ash ordinary (Sorbus aucuparia L.) and its individual components have pronounced antioxidant activity. The greatest activity was found in the roots of licorice naked, grass of bird 's mountain and flowers of chamomile pharmacy. Total antioxidant activity of water extraction of collection recovery at 6.34% from exceeded the calculated value obtained by summing the activities of the individual components of the collection, which indicates the presence of synergy in their action, which may be of importance for use in the treatment and prevention of diseases in gastroenterological practice. The detected increase in the antioxidant activity of the new collection compared to the effects of its individual components allows it to be considered as a promising dosage form for the treatment and prevention of gastroenterological diseases.
Antioxidant properties of aqueous media. Part 3. Water research during the Clarias gariepinus farming in the closed containment aquaculture system
Authors:   Kazan State Power Engineering University, Lapin Anatoly A. , Gordeeva Maria E. ,   Kazan State Power Engineering University, Kalaida Marina L. ,   Kazan State Power Engineering University
Published: March 2021

The article presents the results of a biochemical study of the total antioxidant activity of water during the Clarias gariepinus farming in closed containment aquaculture system, including the dynamics without replacement. For the first time is shown an increasing the total antioxidant activity with the highest values in the lower part of the biological filter. According to the results of daily observation, the fish behavior was adequate until the end of the experiment, which was stopped with the beginning of their mass death (more than 20%). Researches have shown the promise of using the indicator of total antioxidant activity to assess the work of the closed containment aquaculture system for hydrobionts farming. The issues of reducing the cost of farmed fish by the closed containment aquaculture system using aquaponics, which distinguished among other technologies by the high quality of environmentally friendly food products while significantly saving water resources which is an important problem for closed containment aquaculture system are considered. Food plants feed on bacteria from the waste products of fish while they consume the necessary secretion products from water – chemicals (nitrogenous, potassium, phosphorus compounds), naturally purifying the water. Aquaponics simulates the natural whirlpool, using the natural processes of fish vital functions for plants nutrient medium. As food plants can be used Salicornia europaea and glycophyte Nasturtium officinale, which has a high productivity and high content of vitamins, iron and glycosides. Both plants are tested in the closed containment aquaculture system including human, increased degree of isolation.
Neutral Metals in the Atmosphere of HD 149026b
Authors: Ishizuka Masato , Kawahara Hajime , Nugroho Stevanus K. , Kawashima Yui , Hirano Teruyuki , Tamura Motohide
Published: March 2021

Recent progress in high-dispersion spectroscopy has revealed the presence of vaporized heavy metals and ions in the atmosphere of hot Jupiters whose dayside temperature is larger than 2000 K, categorized as ultrahot Jupiters (UHJs). Using the archival data of high-resolution transmission spectroscopy obtained with the Subaru telescope, we searched for neutral metals in HD 149026b, a hot Jupiter cooler than UHJs. By removing stellar and telluric absorption and using a cross-correlation technique, we report a tentative detection of neutral titanium with 4.4σ and a marginal signal of neutral iron with 2.8σ in the atmosphere. This is the first detection of neutral titanium in an exoplanetary atmosphere. In this temperature range, titanium tends to form titanium oxide (TiO). The fact that we did not detect any signal from TiO suggests that the C/O ratio in the atmosphere is higher than the solar value. The detection of metals in the atmosphere of hot Jupiters cooler than UHJs will be useful for understanding the atmospheric structure and formation history of hot Jupiters.
Systematic Difference between Ionized and Molecular Gas Velocity Dispersions in z ∼ 1–2 Disks and Local Analogs
Authors: Girard M. , Fisher D. B. , Bolatto A. D. , Abraham R. , Bassett R. , Glazebrook K. , Herrera-Camus R. , Jiménez E. , Lenkić L. , Obreschkow D.
Published: March 2021

We compare the molecular and ionized gas velocity dispersions of nine nearby turbulent disks, analogs to high-redshift galaxies, from the DYNAMO sample using new Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array and GMOS/Gemini observations. We combine our sample with 12 galaxies at z ∼ 0.5–2.5 from the literature. We find that the resolved velocity dispersion is systematically lower by a factor 2.45 ± 0.38 for the molecular gas compared to the ionized gas, after correcting for thermal broadening. This offset is constant within the galaxy disks and indicates the coexistence of a thin molecular gas disk and a thick ionized one. This result has a direct impact on the Toomre Q and pressure derived in galaxies. We obtain pressures ∼0.22 dex lower on average when using the molecular gas velocity dispersion, σ
0,mol. We find that σ
0,mol increases with gas fraction and star formation rate. We also obtain an increase with redshift and show that the EAGLE and FIRE simulations overall overestimate σ
0,mol at high redshift. Our results suggest that efforts to compare the kinematics of gas using ionized gas as a proxy for the total gas may overestimate the velocity dispersion by a significant amount in galaxies at the peak of cosmic star formation. When using the molecular gas as a tracer, our sample is not consistent with predictions from star formation models with constant efficiency, even when including transport as a source of turbulence. Feedback models with variable star formation efficiency, ϵ
ff, and/or feedback efficiency, p
*/m
*, better predict our observations.
Inferred Linear Stability of Parker Solar Probe Observations Using One- and Two-component Proton Distributions
Authors: Klein K. G. , Verniero J. L. , Alterman B. , Bale S. , Case A. , Kasper J. C. , Korreck K. , Larson D. , Lichko E. , Livi R. , McManus M. , Martinović M. , Rahmati A. , Stevens M. , Whittlesey P.
Published: March 2021

The hot and diffuse nature of the Sun’s extended atmosphere allows it to persist in non-equilibrium states for long enough that wave–particle instabilities can arise and modify the evolution of the expanding solar wind. Determining which instabilities arise, and how significant a role they play in governing the dynamics of the solar wind, has been a decades-long process involving in situ observations at a variety of radial distances. With new measurements from the Parker Solar Probe (PSP), we can study what wave modes are driven near the Sun, and calculate what instabilities are predicted for different models of the underlying particle populations. We model two hours-long intervals of PSP/SPAN-i measurements of the proton phase-space density during the PSP’s fourth perihelion with the Sun using two commonly used descriptions for the underlying velocity distribution. The linear stability and growth rates associated with the two models are calculated and compared. We find that both selected intervals are susceptible to resonant instabilities, though the growth rates and kinds of modes driven unstable vary depending on whether the protons are modeled using one or two components. In some cases, the predicted growth rates are large enough to compete with other dynamic processes, such as the nonlinear turbulent transfer of energy, in contrast with relatively slower instabilities at larger radial distances from the Sun.
Timing of Eight Binary Millisecond Pulsars Found with Arecibo in Fermi-LAT Unidentified Sources
Authors: Deneva J. S. , Ray P. S. , Camilo F. , Freire P. C. C. , Cromartie H. T. , Ransom S. M. , Ferrara E. , Kerr M. , Burnett T. H. , Parkinson P. M. Saz
Published: March 2021

We present timing solutions for eight binary millisecond pulsars (MSPs) discovered by searching unidentified Fermi-Large Area Telescope (LAT) source positions with the 327 MHz receiver of the Arecibo 305 m radio telescope. Five of the pulsars are “spiders” with orbital periods shorter than 8.1 hr. Three of these are in “black widow” systems (with degenerate companions of 0.02–0.03 M
⊙), one is in a “redback” system (with a non-degenerate companion of ≳0.3 M
⊙), and one (J1908+2105) is an apparent middle-ground case between the two observational classes. The remaining three pulsars have white dwarf companions and longer orbital periods. With the initially derived radio timing solutions, we detected γ-ray pulsations from all MSPs and extended the timing solutions using photons from the full Fermi mission, thus confirming the identification of these MSPs with the Fermi-LAT sources. The radio emission of the redback is eclipsed during 50% of its orbital period, which is typical for this kind of system. Two of the black widows exhibit radio eclipses lasting for 10%–20% of the orbit, while J1908+2105 eclipses for 40% of the orbit. We investigate an apparent link between gamma-ray emission and a short orbital period among known binary MSPs in the Galactic disk, and conclude that selection effects cannot be ruled out as the cause. Based on this analysis we outline how the likelihood of new MSP discoveries can be improved in ongoing and future pulsar searches.
Impact of Genetic Polymorphism of Myeloid Differentiation Primary Response Gene 88, Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2, and B-cell Lymphoma 2 like 11 in Patients with Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma Treated with Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristin
Authors: Zawam Hussam , Ibrahim Noha E. , Salama Rasha , Samir Mai , Abdelfattah Walaa , El Demerdash Doaa M. , Sabry Dina , Tabak Sahar A. , Khairy Rasha A.
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Despite the growing landscape of genetic drivers in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma, yet their clinical implication is still unclear and R-CHOP regimen remains a “one size fits all” therapy. We aimed in this study to examine the prevalence of EZH2, BCL211 and MYD 88 genetic polymorphisms in DLBCL patients and correlate the results with various clinical and survival outcomes.
METHODS: Genotyping of MYD88 (rs387907272 T/C), EZH2 (rs3757441 C/T), and BCL2L11 (rs3789068 A/G) polymorphisms were conducted using real time polymerase chain reaction analysis in a total of 75 DLBCL patients.
RESULTS: Most of our cases carried the wild TT genotype of MYD88 gene (64%), the mutant TT genotype of EZH2 gene (52%) and the wild AA genotype of BCL2L11 gene (48%). Regarding cell of origin, Germinal Centre (GC) phenotype was present in 56% of cases while 44% expressed the Post-GC (PGC) phenotype. Poor response outcome to first line R-CHOP was significantly correlated with the mutated CC genotype of MYD 88 (p=0.02), while better response to R-CHOP was significantly associated with younger age <50 years (p <0.0001), good PS (p=0.046), normal LDH level (p=0.003), earlier stage (p <0.0001), good IPI score (p=0.009), absence of extranodal disease (p <0.0001) and absence of bulky disease (p=0.004). The median PFS and the 2 year OS were significantly higher in younger age, earlier stage, good IPI score, absence of extranodal disease, absence of bulky disease and in GC phenotype.
CONCLUSIONS: Our results emphasized that the mutated genotype of MYD 88 gene polymorphism is significantly associated with poor response to R-CHOP therapy.
Communication Skills Teaching Methods in Dental Education – a Review
Authors: Burkert Vesela , Stoykova Maria , Semerdjieva Maria
Published: March 2021

Communication skills of dentists have been demonstrated to be part of the good dental practice. The aim we set ourselves in this study was to review the literature related to the methods of teaching communication skills at dental faculties, and develop a handout in the Bulgarian language about leading a successful conversation with a patient.

According to some authors, the most important principles for effective communication training include the use of practical exercises, clinically relevant scenarios, students’ self-assessment tools, videotapes, participation of patient actors, and training in small groups. Another communication training program is the so-called Miller pyramid. Using the method of objective structured clinical examina-tion (OSCE) can also be an effective way of teaching communication skills to dental students. 

The conclusion to be made is that communication skills should be taught across the entire dental curriculum as this leads to better understanding and sufficient outcome. 
Echogenic intracardiac focus – existence in the first trimester and the role of microRNAs
Authors: Koutras Antonios , Fasoulakis Zacharias , Halil Arzou , Kontomanolis Emmanuel N.
Published: March 2021

Echogenic intracardiac focus (EIF) constitutes a finding in the ultrasound study that indicates an area which is echogenically bright in the fetal heart and is as bright as the bone that moves synchronically to the atrioventricular valves. Microcalcifications of the papillary muscles or chordae tendinae are being represented by this echogenicity and are mostly present in the left ventricle (90% of cases). EIF appears usually at the ultrasound that is realized in the mid-trimester in a percentage that reaches 3.5% in euploid fetuses and 15% to 30% in fetuses with trisomy 21. In the current paper, the rare and curious case of a 21-year-old primigravida woman is described, who presented for ultrasound scan at the 12th week of gestation. The scan revealed the presence of EIF, which is very rare, as it is well-known that it usually appears in the second trimester of pregnancy. Counseling and debriefing for dismissing parents’ anxiety is necessary as well as further examinations, because EIF has low sensitivity. This specific case report could constitute a beginning in the research of whether investigating EIF in the first trimester of pregnancy is possible and which are the benefits of its detection for the mother, the fetus and the whole family, in clinical practice.
Agricultural Recommendation System for Crops Using Different Machine Learning Regression Methods
Authors: Garanayak Mamata , Sahu Goutam , Mohanty Sachi Nandan , Jagadev Alok Kumar
Published: March 2021

Agriculture is a foremost field within the world, and it's the backbone in the Republic of India. Agriculture has been in poor condition. The impact of temperature variations and its uncertainty has engendered the bulk of the agricultural crops to be overripe in terms of their manufacturing. A correct forecast of crop expansion is a vital character in crop forecast management. Such forecasts will hold up the federated industries for accomplishing the provision of their occupation. ML is the method of finding new models from giant information sets. Numerous regressive ways like random forest, linear regression, decision tree regression, polynomial regression, and support vector regression will be used for the aim. Area and production are among the meteorological information that's made by necessary data. This paper figures out the yield recommendation of the crop by the accurate comparison of numerous machine learning ML regressions where the overall percentage improvement over several existing methods is 3.6%.
Students' Attitudes and Preferences Towards Google Docs as a Collaborative Writing Platform
Authors: Lee Kok Yueh , Hassell David Geraint
Published: March 2021

This paper presents findings on the application of Google Docs as a collaborative writing platform for a research report assignment. Based on a mixed method study, 34 first year students were put into eight groups of four to five and tasked with writing a research report. Four groups adopted Google Docs to discuss and develop the assignment whilst the other four groups adopted a more traditional face-to-face approach. Two sets of questionnaires, pre and post to the assignment, were distributed to investigate students' attitude and preference towards both approaches. Findings indicate that students shared mixed feelings towards Google Docs where students without prior experience found it a positive experience and useful for their learning. Students preferred the real-time accessibility and time-saving features of the platform as compared to face-to-face, with results indicating that a blended approach of online and face-to-face meetings is the best approach to maximise student learning.
Contributions to the Technological Adoption Model for the Peruvian Agro-Export Sector
Authors: Arbaiza Cesar Salas , Huerta Hugo Vega , Rodriguez Ciro Rodriguez
Published: March 2021

This paper proposes a technology adoption model called TAM 4, based on the TAM model considering the trust and perceived risk factors to the adoption of technology in response to governments' concern to achieve competitiveness in the most important economic activities. The methodology used considers the predictive method. The sample was selected from 67 companies related to foreign trade that carry out agro export tasks, with a confidence level of 90% and an error percentage of ± 10% and the 0.787 of Cronbach's Alpha obtained for the instrument's validation. In conclusion, 97% of the companies informally adopt technology. This shows that 68% of the companies surveyed in the sector would be willing to adopt the model.
Remote Health Patient Monitoring System for Early Detection of Heart Disease
Authors: Babu Gokulnath Chandra , Shantharajah S. P.
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a heart disease prediction model. Among the recent technology, internet of things-enabled healthcare plays a vital role. The medical sensors used in healthcare provide a huge volume of medical data in a continuous manner. The speed of data generation in IoT healthcare is high so the volume of data is also high. In order to overcome this problem, the proposed model is a novel three-step process to store and analyze the large volumes of data. The first step focuses on a collection of data from sensor devices. In Step 2, HBase has been used to store the large volume of medical sensor data from a wearable device to the cloud. Step 3 uses Mahout for devolving logistic regression-based prediction model. At last, ROC curve is used to find the parameters that cause heart disease.
Named Entity Recognition for Code Mixed Social Media Sentences
Authors: Sharma Yashvardhan , Bhargava Rupal , Tadikonda Bapiraju Vamsi
Published: March 2021

With the increase of internet applications and social media platforms there has been an increase in the informal way of text communication. People belonging to different regions tend to mix their regional language with English on social media text. This has been the trend with many multilingual nations now and is commonly known as code mixing. In code mixing, multiple languages are used within a statement. The problem of named entity recognition (NER) is a well-researched topic in natural language processing (NLP), but the present NER systems tend to perform inefficiently on code-mixed text. This paper proposes three approaches to improve named entity recognizers for handling code-mixing. The first approach is based on machine learning techniques such as support vector machines and other tree-based classifiers. The second approach is based on neural networks and the third approach uses long short-term memory (LSTM) architecture to solve the problem.
The Skin–Liver Axis Modulates the Psoriasiform Phenotype and Involves Leucine-Rich α-2 Glycoprotein
Authors: Nakajima Hideki , Nakajima Kimiko , Takaishi Mikiro , Ohko Kentaro , Serada Satoshi , Fujimoto Minoru , Naka Tetsuji , Sano Shigetoshi
Published: March 2021

Leucine-rich α-2 glycoprotein (LRG), one of the acute phase proteins mainly produced by the liver, similar to C-reactive protein, has been recognized as an inflammatory biomarker for rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. We recently demonstrated that LRG was also increased in the sera of psoriasis patients and correlated well with disease activity with a sensitivity and specificity much higher than C-reactive protein; however, whether LRG mechanistically contributed to the pathogenesis of psoriasis remained unclear. In this study, we explored the role of LRG in psoriasiform inflammation using LRG-knockout (KO) mice in an imiquimod (IMQ)–mediated model. Following topical treatment with IMQ, serum levels of LRG and its expression in the liver were abruptly elevated. Similarly, an acute surge of proinflammatory cytokines was observed in the liver, including IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, although LRG-KO mice showed delayed responses. LRG-KO mice showed less skin inflammation in the IMQ model than wild-type mice. K5.Stat3C mice developed psoriasis-like lesions following tape stripping, which also abruptly induced LRG expression in the liver. A deficiency of Lrg mitigated tape stripping–induced lesions, similar to the IMQ model. These results indicate that LRG modulates both feed-forward and feedback loops of cytokines in the skin–liver axis involved with psoriasiform inflammation.
Using carboxymethyl gum from Tamarindus indica and Cassia fistula seeds with Chromolaena odorata leaf extract to develop antibacterial gauze dressing with hemostatic activity
Authors: Sittikijyothin Wancheng , Phonyotin Bussaba , Sangnim Tanikan , Huanbutta Kampanart
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose:

Gauze dressing is a barrier against microbial infection in wounds. The seed gums of Tamarindus indica and Cassia fistula are abundant in tropical countries; we used them as a coating material of cotton gauzes to improve the liquid absorption ability. Moreover, Chromolaena odorata leaf extract was loaded on the gums for antibacterial gauze dressing with hemostatic activity.

Experimental approach:

Crude gums were extracted from T. indica and C. fistula seeds and carboxymethyl gums were then derived and chracterized. C. Odorata ethanolic extract was also prepared by maceration and its antimicrobial and blood clotting activities were determine coated gauze dressing containing different concentrations of carboxymethyl gum was prepared in the presence of various concentrations of C. odorata extract. Then, the physical properties, antibacterial activity, and skin-irritating effects of the coated gauze were analyzed.

Findings/Results:

The results indicated that the amount of carboxymethyl gum affected the physical properties and absorption capacity of the coated gauze. C. odorata extract exhibited better bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus than against Escherichia coli. The blood clotting effects of C. odorata extract indicated that it had dramatic hemostatic efficacy. The coated gauze exhibited bactericidal activity against S. aureus. In the human skin irritation test, the coated gauze caused no adverse effects on human skin.

Conclusion and implication:

Coated gauze has the potential to serve as a prototype for primary hemostasis in first aid for opened wounds such as abrasions and lacerations.
Evaluation of the effect of hydroalcoholic and flavonoid-enriched extracts of Dracocephalum kotschyi on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats
Authors: Minaiyan Mohsen , Sadraei Hassan , Yousefi Iman , Sajjadi Sayed-Ebrahim , Talebi Ardeshir
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose:

Dracocephalum kotschyi (Zaringiah) is a fragrant wild medicinal plant found in Iran. Traditionally, it is used for the treatment of rheumatism, asthma, and gastrointestinal ailments. So far no investigation has been done on the beneficial or side effects of D. kotschyi on peptic ulcer. Therefore, this research was performed to find out whether D. kotschyi extract would induce peptic ulcer or could alleviate existing peptic ulcer.

Experimental approach:

Effect of hydroalcoholic (DKHE) and flavonoid extracts (DKFE) of D. kotschyi were determined in normal or indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer rats (n = 6) and compared with the vehicle and ranitidine treated controls. All the treatments were carried out orally and 24 h later the stomach mucus was visually examined for peptic ulcers. A section of the stomach was taken for microscopic histopathological examinations while another section of the stomach was used for measurement of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) activities.

Findings/Results:

Oral administration of the DKHE and DKFE alone, did not cause any sign of gastric ulcer induction. The D. kotschyi extracts not only didn’t aggravate the induced ulcer but also significantly prevented the severity of gastric ulcer induction by indomethacin. In addition, DKHE and DKFE inhibited MPO (up to 58.2%) and MDA (up to 44.2%) activities indicating their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential action on the stomach-induced ulcer.

Conclusion and implication:

Usage of D. kotschyi extracts is not associated with gastric ulcer induction and its co-administration with NSAIDs would be beneficial for controlling both the inflammation and preventing gastric ulcer in diseases such as rheumatism.
Rapamycin attenuates gene expression of programmed cell death protein-ligand 1 and Foxp3 in the brain; a novel mechanism proposed for immunotherapy in the brain
Authors: Khedri Mostafa , Kooshki Hamid , Taheri Ramezan Ali
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose:

Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD1) expresses on the cell surface of the activated lymphocytes and at least a subset of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. The binding of PD1 to its ligands including PD-L1 and PD-L2 leads to deliver an inhibitory signal to the activated cells. Although PD1/PD-L signal deficiency can lead to failure in the self-tolerance and development of autoimmunity disorders, PD1 blockade with monoclonal antibodies is considered an effective strategy in cancer immunotherapy. Determining effective environmental factors such as stress conditions on the expression of PD1 and PD-L1 genes can provide an immunotherapeutic strategy to control PD1 signaling in the patients Mammalian target of rapamycin signaling is a stress-responsive pathway in the cells that can be blocked by rapamycin. In this study, the effects of rapamycin on the expression of immunoregulatory genes were investigated in the stress condition.

Experimental approach:

Daily administration of rapamycin (1.5 mg/kg per day) was used in the mouse model of restraint stress and the relative expression of PD1, PD-L1, and Foxp3 genes in the brain and spleen were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction method.

Findings/Results:

With our observation, daily restraint stress ceased rapamycin to decrease the expression of Foxp3 in the brain significantly. These findings would be beneficial in developing tolerance to autoimmune diseases and finding immunopathology of stress in the CNS. In another observation, daily administration of rapamycin decreased the expression of PD-L1 in the brain cells of mice. In the spleen samples, significant alteration in genes of interest expression was not detected for all groups of the study.

Conclusion and implications:

Downregulation of the PD-L1 gene in the brain induced by rapamycin can be followed in future experiences for preventing immunosuppressive effects of PD/PD-L1 signal in the brain.
Suppression of hypoxia and inflammatory pathways by Phyllanthus niruri extract inhibits angiogenesis in DMBA-induced breast cancer mice
Authors: Ramadhani Abu Hanifah , Ahkam Ahmad Hafidul , Suharto Aditya Ragil , Jatmiko Yoga Dwi , Tsuboi Hideo , Rifa’i Muhaimin
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose:

Angiogenesis has been one of the hallmarks of cancer. In recent years, Phyllanthus niruri extract (PNE) was reported to inhibit angiogenesis by decreasing the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in breast cancer. However, the experimental results were confirmed in cancer cell lines only, whereas the anti-angiogenic activity in animal models has not been demonstrated. In this study, we tried to examine the anti-angiogenic activity of PNE on BALB/c strain mice models that were induced for breast cancer using the carcinogenic substance 7,12- dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA).

Experimental approach:

Experimental animals were divided into five different groups; vehicle, DMBA, PNE 500 mg/kg, PNE 1000 mg/kg; and PNE 2000 mg/kg. Mammary carcinogenesis was induced using a subcutaneous injection of 15 mg/kg of DMBA for 12 weeks. Afterward, oral PNE treatment was given for the following 5 weeks. VEGFA and HIF-1α were observed using immunohistochemistry. Endothelial cell markers CD31, CD146, and CD34 were observed using the fluorescent immunohistochemistry method. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-17, and C-X-C motif chemokine (CXCL12) were measured using flow cytometry.

Findings/Results:

The survival analysis indicated that PNE increased the survival rate of mice (P = 0.043, log-rank test) at all doses. The PNE treatment decreased the immunoreactive score of angiogenic factors (VEGF and HIF-1α), as well as the endothelial cell markers (CD31, CD146, and CD34). The PNE- treated groups also decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-17, and CXCL12) at all doses.

Conclusion and implications:

This finding suggests that PNE may inhibit the progression of angiogenesis in breast cancer mice by targeting the hypoxia and inflammatory pathways.
SHED, PRF, and Chitosan as Three-Dimensional of Tissue Engineering for Dental Pulp Regeneration
Authors: Anggrarista Kelvin Alfan Nola , Cecilia Pamela Handy , Nagoro Ayu Anggraini Broto , Saskianti Tania , Surboyo Meircurius Dwi Condro
Published: March 2021

The gold standard for pulpitis irreversible treatment is root canal treatment. However, it caused the loss of tooth vitality. To restore tooth vitality, materials that have regenerative ability in the pulp is needed. The exfoliated deciduous teeth stem cells (SHED) not only expressed specific markers for mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) but also induced the odontoblastic differentiation, and stimulating the formation of endothelium and fibroblast. The combination SHED with platelet rich fibrin (PRF) and chitosan were able to facilitate and increase the migration, proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp cells. Based on that fact, the combination of SHED, PRF and chitosan as three-dimensional tissue engineering is promising as new modality to pulp regeneration in the clinical setting. The purpose of this review is describing the potential combination of SHED, PRF, and chitosan scaffold as three-dimensional tissue engineering for pulp regeneration.
Possible Protective Role of NLRC4 Inflammasome in Periodontal Diseases
Authors: Parameswaran Sneha , Naik Vanaja Krishna , Aral Kubra , Gunasekaran Sugirtharaj , Appukuttan Devapriya , Milward Michael R , Ramadoss Ramya
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes, which regulate proinflammatory cytokines, Interleukin-18 (IL-18), and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) that are associated with periodontal breakdown. This study investigated the expression of NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) and NOD-like receptor family CARD domain-containing protein 4 (NLRC4) inflammasomes in different periodontal diseases in humans and their potential association with IL-18 release in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 45 participants (21 males and 24 females) divided into four groups; periodontally healthy (H), gingivitis (G), chronic periodontitis (CP), and aggressive periodontitis (AgP) based on periodontal examination. NLRC4 and NLRP3 expression were detected by immunohistochemistry in gingival tissue samples for all groups. Expression percentage (%) and staining intensity distribution score (SID) were calculated for both NLRC4 and NLRP3. IL-18 was measured in GCF via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results:

Positive immunoreactivity was seen for NLRC4 and NLRP3 across groups. No differences were found for NLRC4 expression %, but SID scores were slightly higher in G and AgP compared to other groups (P > 0.05). Results showed a significant increase of NRLP3 expression % in group CP compared to group H (P < 0.05) without affecting SID scores (P > 0.05). IL-18 levels were significantly higher in AgP and CP groups compared to H and G groups (P < 0.05). IL-18 significantly and positively correlated with clinical attachment levels across groups.

Conclusion:

Within the limitations of this preliminary study, we suggest that the NLRC4 platform may have a protective role contrary to the NLRP3 platform influencing IL-18 release and associated periodontal tissue breakdown.
Clinical Comparison of Fissure Sealants Retention Following Preparation with Seventh Generation Bonding Agent with Prior Etching and Conventional Acid Etch and Bond System (fifth Generation)
Authors: Erfanparast Leila , Vatandoust Masoumeh , Sohrabi Azin , Mahmoudi Leila
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Fissure sealant therapy is a preventive method relied on covering pits and fissures to prohibit bacteria from settling on tooth and producing acid, which cause tooth demineralization. The benefits of caries prevention could only be achieved when the sealants remain intact for a long time, thus long-lasting retention is mandatory. Despite recently achieved improvement in sealant quality, their retention in long course remains a challenging issue in dentistry. The purpose of our study was to compare the clinical efficacy of sealants after using seventh generation adhesive and additional etchant material with fifth generation bonding agent.

Materials and Methods:

In this randomized clinical trial, 40 patients in the age group of 7 to 12 years were randomly selected. All participants had a pair of sound first permanent molar in the mandible, which need fissure sealant therapy. For each patient, one tooth was treated with seventh generation bonding and separate etching material, and the counterpart tooth had undergone the fifth generation bonding system. A pediatric dentist did exert 6 and 12-mounth follow ups.

Results:

In 38 of 40 patients, who completed 6-month follow-up, the success rate of seventh generation adhesive was 84.2% and in the fifth generation group it was 76.3%. At 12-month follow-up, 36 patients were referred and success rate of fifth generation bonding was 52% and it was 36% in seventh generation adhesive. According to fisher test, the difference between two groups was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

This study depicted that fissure sealant retention was equal after 6 and 12 months in both methods.
Physical and Chemical Characterizations of Novel Bioactive Caries Detecting Solution
Authors: Govind Shashirekha , Kamilla Sushant Kumar , Nanda Binita , Jena Amit , Mohanty Neeta
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

The nature and progression of acute and chronic carious lesion are extremely variable on different tooth surfaces. Early detection of dental caries is challenging for clinicians and involves careful visual and tactile examination. Caries detection dyes and chemomechanical caries removal solutions guide the clinicians in the removal of infected dentin. This study aims to prepare and analyze the physical, chemical, and thermal characterizations of novel bioactive caries detecting dye solution (BCD) and its effectiveness in caries removal from the tooth structure.

Materials and Methods:

BCD is a combination of contrast agent (iobitridol), chitosan (CS), nanohydroxyapatite (nHAP), and coloring agent. It is synthesized, lyophilized, and subjected to Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) analysis. Pilot study was conducted by applying BCD on two extracted carious teeth for evaluating caries removal efficiency under a microscope (10x). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image analysis was done to assess the percentage of dentinal tubules occlusion.

Results:

FTIR, XRD, and DSC analysis revealed that BCD has compatible interfacial bond between the components and is endothermic. Effective caries removal was seen under a microscope and SEM analysis revealed mean 77.66% of dentinal tubules occlusion.

Conclusion:

BCD is a stable solution without exothermic reaction, has caries identifying potential, and helps in caries removal. BCD is also bioactive in nature due to the presence of CS and nHAP as ingredients.
Porphyromonas gingivalis in Periodontitis
Authors: Utomo Haryono , Wijaksana I Komang Evan , Prahasanti Chiquita
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Theories or hypotheses regarding the connection between COVID-19 and periodontal disease are increasing during the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 has been reported to have adverse outcomes related to the establishment of a cytokine storm, which is similar to the cytokine expression profile and cells involved in periodontitis. Nevertheless, the exact etiology why cytokine storm is vulnerable in COVID-19 as well as periodontitis still not clearly understood.

The hypothesis:

Recently, the phenomenon of angry macrophages can be explained by M1/M2 macrophage polarization. Periodontitis patients that harbored Porphyromonas gingivalis have a greater M1/M2 ratio than healthy patients, thus have more active M1 macrophages that produce pro-inflammatory cytokines. We hypothesize that periodontal disease could be a burden in defense mechanism toward infectious diseases, particularly the COVID-19.

Evaluation of the Hypothesis:

Endotoxin tolerance caused by P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharides shifts immune response from T helper (Th)-1 toward Th2, which leads to a less effective antivirus system. This mechanism may explain the connection between COVID-19 and periodontal disease through their cytokine profiles, microbial balance, and M1/M2 homeostasis. Recommendation for maintenance of oral hygiene and periodontal treatment is mandatory in the COVID era.
EUS-guided placement of fiducial markers for image-guided radiotherapy in gastrointestinal tumors
Authors: Carrara Silvia , Rimbas Mihai , Larghi Alberto , Di Leo Milena , Comito Tiziana , Jaoude Joseph Abi , Taniguchi Cullen M. , Dietrich Christoph F. , Bhutani Manoop S. , Hollerbach Stephan
Published: March 2021

We present here a new chapter of the series of papers on how to perform specific EUS techniques. In this manuscript, we discuss on how to perform EUS-guided placement of fiducial markers in gastrointestinal tumors. The aim is to present the scientific evidence of fiducials placement before radiation therapy, including an accurate revision of the literature, to give some advices on the technical approach, and to discuss Pros and Cons from the point of view of gastroenterologists and radiation oncologist.
Efficacy of EUS-guided needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy in the diagnosis of pancreatic lesions: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Saghir Syed Mohsin , Dhindsa Banreet Singh , Daid Sarav Gunjit Singh , Mashiana Harmeet S. , Dhaliwal Amaninder , Cross Chad , Singh Shailender , Bhat Ishfaq , Ohning Gordon V. , Adler Douglas G.
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives:

Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) is a procedure in which an AQ-Flex nCLE mini-probe is passed through an EUS-FNA needle into a pancreatic lesion to enable subsurface in vivo tissue analysis. In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of nCLE for the diagnosis of pancreatic lesions.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a comprehensive search of several databases and conference proceedings, including PubMed, EMBASE, Google-Scholar, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases (earliest inception to March 2020). The primary outcomes assessed the pooled rate of diagnostic accuracy for nCLE and the secondary outcomes assessed the pooled rate of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and adverse events (AE) of nCLE to diagnose premalignant/malignant pancreatic lesions.

Results:

Eleven studies on 443 patients were included in our analysis. The pooled rate of diagnostic accuracy of EUS nCLE was 83% (95 confidence interval [CI] = 79–87; I
2 = 0). The pooled rate of sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of EUS nCLE was 85.29% (95% CI = 76.9–93.68; I
2 = 85%), 90.49% (95% CI = 82.24–98.74; I
2 = 64%), 94.15% (95% CI = 88.55–99.76; I
2 = 68%), and 73.44% (95% CI = 60.16–86.72; I
2 = 93%), respectively. The total AE rate was 5.41% (±5.92) with postprocedure pancreatitis being the most common AE at 2.28% (±3.73).

Conclusion:

In summary, this study highlights the rate of diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and PPV for distinguishing premalignant/malignant lesions. Pancreatic lesions need to be further defined with more validation studies to characterize CLE diagnosis criteria and to evaluate its use as an adjunct to EUS-FNA.