bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Light During Vernalization on the Flowering Response of Ajuga and Dianthus1
Authors: Eitzroth Daniel E. , Link Conrad B.
Published: August 2022

A study was made of the flowering response of 2 test plants to various light treatments during a period of cold storage vernalization. Leaf-bearing plants of the obligate cold-requiring species Ajuga reptans and leafy plants of 2 cultivars of the facultative cold-requiring species Dianthus caryophyllus were subjected to differences of intensity, quality and duration of light during a 30-day period of storage at 4°C. Flowering response was measured by earliness of budding, per cent of plants flowering and number of leaf pairs initiated before the reproductive bud was formed. Light applied during the cold period was shown to increase the degree of vernalization obtained. Increases in light intensity resulted in earlier and increased flowering. Differences in photoperiod and light quality, however, were not shown to influence the flowering response.
The Effect of Temperature on the Inheritance of Pod Numbers in Pisum sativum L.1
Authors: Ibarbia E. A. , Bienz D. R.
Published: August 2022

Lines of peas which produce predominantly single, double, and triple pods, respectively, at each peduncle were crossed and growth of the parental lines and the F1, F2 and backcross progenies was compared at 2 temperature regimes—45° night-6O° day and 60° night-75° day—in the growth chamber.

The single-and double-podded parental lines were extremely uniform, producing almost 100% single and double pods, respectively, at both temperature regimes. The triple-podded parent produced almost all 3-podded determinant peduncles at the lower temperature but tended to produce indeterminant peduncles with 2, 3, and 4 pods at the higher temperature.

The F1 of all crosses produced almost all double pods at both temperatures.

The mean numbers of pods per peduncle produced on the F2 plants was somewhat higher at the high than at the low temperature. The F2 and backcross generation plants segregated as they would for a character which is dependent on several genes but for which genes for 2 pods per peduncle showed some dominance. These results contrast with field studies where pod number was extremely variable for all lines and where genes for low pod number appeared to be somewhat dominant.
Inflorescence and Fruit Development in Concentrated and Nonconcentrated Ripening Strawberries1
Authors: Stang Eiden J. , Denisen E. L.
Published: August 2022

Morphological differences exist in pre- and postdormant inflorescence and fruit development of concentrated ripening selections Iowa 23-6214 and 26-6215 when compared with nonconcentrated ripening strawberry cultivars ‘Midway’ and ‘Cyclone’. Inflorescences sectioned before dormancy, however, revealed no characteristics considered indicative of concentrated ripening. Stylar development in secondary and tertiary flowers of greenhouse grown, concentrated ripening selections was retarded in the early post-dormant period. In single harvests in the field and greenhouse, these selections had higher percentages of ripe and partially ripe secondary and tertiary fruit than ‘Midway’ and ‘Cyclone’. A high abortion rate and/or arrested development in late-blooming flowers was characteristic of concentrated ripening selections. Pedicel length and inflorescence branching habit were not correlated with developmental or ripening rates.
The Effects of Iron and Manganese Deficiencies on Accumulation of Nonprotein and Protein Amino Acids in Macadamia Leaves1
Authors: Labanauskas C. K. , Handy M. F.
Published: August 2022

The effects of Fe-deficiency and Mn-deficiency in macadamia leaves on the accumulation of free amino acids and total amino acids (free plus protein amino acids) were studied in water vs. sand culture. Leaves showing severe Fe-deficiency symptoms contained substantially higher concentrations of free histidine, aspartic acid, threonine, serine, glutamic acid, proline, alanine, valine, and tyrosine than analogous control leaves. The sum of the individual free amino acids were 177% higher in the Fe-deficient leaves than in the control leaves.

Mn-deficient leaves, containing .0003% Mn, had significantly higher concentrations of free aspartic acid, threonine, glutamic acid, proline, alanine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, tryosine, and phenylalanine than analogous control leaves. The sum of the free amino acids in Mn-deficient leaves was 85% higher than in the analogous leaves from the control plants.

In chlorotic Fe-deficient leaves the concentrations of total lysine, histidine, ammonia, arginine, aspartic acid, methionine, and leucine were significantly higher than in control leaves.

Mn-deficient leaves contained significantly higher amounts of total lysine, histidine, ammonia, aspartic acid, threonine, serine, glutamic acid, proline, glycine, alanine, valine, methionine, isoleucine, leucine and phenylalanine than control leaves.

The concentrations of free lysine, histidine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, proline, alanine, and valine were higher in the leaves of plants grown in sand culture. The total ammonia, threonine, methionine, leucine, tyrosine, and phenylalanine were lower in the leaves of plants grown in water culture. Total arginine was higher in leaves from the sand culture.

There were several significant interactions between treatments and culture media on the accumulation of free and total amino acids in the Fe- or Mn-deficient leaves.
The Inheritance of Fusarium Wilt Resistance in Watermelon, Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Mansf.1
Authors: Henderson W. R. , Jenkins S. F. , Rawlings J. O.
Published: August 2022

The inheritance of Fusarium wilt resistance was studied using 3 varieties of watermelon. ‘Summit’ and ‘Charleston Gray’ differed in their level of resistance. ‘Summit, carrying a high level of resistance, acted in a completely dominant manner to the susceptible variety ‘New Hampshire Midget’. On the other hand, ‘New Hampshire Midget’ was partially dominant to the moderately resistant variety ‘Charleston Gray’. The relationship of ‘Summit’ to ‘Charleston Gray’ was not clear, although the data suggested dominance of ‘Summit’ to ‘Charleston Gray’.

Three gene models were postulated, a one-locus multiple-allelic model and 2 two-locus models. The deviations from regression (model adequacy) for the multiple-allelic model and for one of the 2-locus models were nonsignificant as shown by the Chi-square test. The coefficient of determination (R2) for the multiple-allelic model was .973 with 5 genetic parameters and for the 2-locus model, R2 = .970 with 4 genetic parameters. Neither model was considered superior to the other.

It was suggested that a variety such as ‘Summit’, with a high level of resistance, inherited in a completely dominant manner, could be of value in obtaining Fi hybrids highly resistant to Fusarium wilt, as well as aid in the development of highly resistant open-pollinated varieties.
A Differential Response of Two Cultivars of Chrysanthemum morifolium to Phosfon Applications1
Authors: Mahmoud T. A. , Steponkus Peter L.
Published: August 2022

Phosfon retardation of growth was studied in 2 cultivars of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat., ‘Jet Fire’ and ‘Maple Leaves’. Retarded growth of ‘Jet Fire’ was the result of fewer and shorter internodes, whereas in ‘Maple Leaves’ the number of internodes remained the same but their length was less compared to the controls. In both cultivars, the shorter internodes were the result of a reduction in cell division and hence cell number. The length of cells in the pith of fully developed internodes remained the same. Application of gibberellin overcame the growth retarding effect of phosfon while indoleacetic acid was ineffective. Combined applications of gibberellin and indoleacetic acid had the same effect on growth of phosfon-treated plants as gibberellin alone. The gibberellin content of the shoot apex was much less in phosfon-treated plants, but there was a larger reduction in the gibberellin content in ‘Jet Fire’ than in ‘Maple Leaves’. Protein, RNA and DNA contents of the leaves and apices were determined colorimetri-cally and there were no measurable differences as a result of phosfon treatment.
Effect of Phosfon on Shoot Histogenesis of Chrysanthemum morifolium1
Authors: Mahmoud T. A. , Steponkus Peter L.
Published: August 2022

By using microautoradiography to study the incorporation of thymidine-3H, uridine-3H and lysine-3H in the shoot apex of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. cv. ‘Jet Fire’, phosfon was shown to inhibit both DNA and RNA synthesis in the apical and subapical meristems. The resultant decrease in cell division in both the apical and sub-apical meristem accounts for the reduction of both the number and length of internodes. Gibberellic acid, which reverses growth inhibition by phosfon, increased incorporation of thymidine-14C and uridine-14C into DNA and RNA respectively.
Extraction and Gas-liquid Chromatography of Sweet Potato Sugars and Inositol1
Authors: McDonald R. E. , Newson D. W.
Published: August 2022

The standard ethanol sugar extraction method and a chloroform-methanol-ethanol (CHCl3-MeOH-EtOH) extraction were compared. Determinations of sugar tri-methylsilyl derivatives by gas-liquid chromatography were examined.

The CHCl3-MeOH-EtOH extraction was superior to the ethanol extraction. Complete recoveries of glucose were afforded by both methods; however, the ethanol extraction yielded maltose whereas the CHCl3-MeOH-EtOH method did not.

Deionization of sweet potato sugar extracts and authentic sugars with MB-3 ion exchange resin was undesirable because only small percentages of sugars were recovered.

Discrepancies were found in the recently published determination of sugar trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives by gas-liquid chromatography. Although it was reported that the quantity of the TMS product formed was essentially independent of time, at least 6 hr were necessary to completely form the penta-o-trimethylsilyl derivatives of fructose. The penta-o-trimethylsilyl derivatives of glucose were formed within 5 min as indicated in the literature. Anomerization from α- to β-fructose occurred after the introduction of the TMS reactants.
Seed and Plant Size Effects on Cabbage Cultivars1
Authors: Halsey L. H. , Fluck R. C. , Hensel D. R. , Beeman J. F.
Published: August 2022

Large and small cabbage transplants of three cultivars were selected from plots produced from large, medium, small, and unsized seed. Physical measurements and yield data were obtained. Analysis of the means and the plant-to-plant variation showed the principal responses to be more readily accounted for by genetic than environmental factors. Plants of ‘King Cole’ were less variable than the other cultivars in height of heading.
The Nature and Performance of Red Cotyledon Lettuce Seedlings, Lactuca sativa L.1
Authors: James Edwin
Published: August 2022

Analysis of tissues of lettuce, Lactuca sativa L., seedlings failed to reveal the presence of anthocyanin, pheophytin or phenolic compounds as the cause of red cotyledons (physiological necrosis). Electron microscope study showed that the cells in the necrotic tissues were completely disintegrated with only the mitochondria identifiable.

In greenhouse and field plantings, necrotic seedlings that survived produced heads equal in size and total yield to those from normal seedlings. Seedlings with slight spotting were a few days behind normal seedlings in establishment, whereas those which were badly necrotic were about 2 weeks delayed. After 8 weeks in the greenhouse or field there was no differences in plant sizes. Seedlings with only slight necrosis appeared to be satisfactory for field seeding but badly necrotic ones would probably not give a satisfactory stand.
The Influence of Some Nutritional and Management Factors Upon Certain Physical Attributes of Peach Quality1
Authors: Reeves John , Cummings George
Published: August 2022

The application of either N or Mg resulted in marked decreases in keeping quality, firmness, surface color, and to a lesser extent, specific gravity of peaches. The application of K was associated with increases in firmness, keeping quality and color, but a slight decrease in specific gravity of the fruit. The application of lime was not associated with changes in any quality factor determined. The application of P significantly increased firmness. Deviation from normal pruning practices resulted in increases in fruit firmness while irrigation decreased firmness. Treatments that lowered specific gravity usually lowered per cent dry weight. Evidence is presented which indicates that treatment influence upon fruit color was greatly increased in proportion to the number of years a treatment was applied.
Studies on the Ammonium Tolerance of Some Cultivated Solanaceae1,2
Authors: Hohlt Herman E. , Maynard Donald N. , Barker Allen V.
Published: August 2022

Tomato, tobacco, pepper, petunia, and eggplant were screened for their tolerance to continuous (NH4)2SO4 applications. Stem lesions, analogous to those which appear on tomato during ammonium toxicity, were formed on eggplant but not on the other species. Of the plants tested, tobacco was the most tolerant to applications of (NH4)2SO4. Potassium applications increased the ammonium concentration of tobacco tissues but lowered the ammonium concentration of tomato tissues. Diamine concentrations were increased by the application of (NH4)2SO4. The application of KCl decreased the putrescine concentration of tobacco and increased the concentration of cadaverine in tomato and tobacco. The application of putrescine-2HC1 in aqueous solution to cut stem ends of axillary shoots of tomato and tobacco induced the formation of stem lesions analogous to those formed by the (NH4)2SO4 fertilization of tomato. It is postulated that the tolerance of tobacco to stem lesion formation is related to putrescine utilization in nicotine synthesis.
Tomato Tolerance to Two Preemergence Herbicides1
Authors: Frank R. , Waywell C. G.
Published: August 2022

Field and laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the behaviour of two preemergence herbicides, S-propyl butylethylthiocarbamate (pebulate) and N,N-dimethyl-2,2-diphenylacetamide (diphenamid) in field seeded tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). In the growth chamber, tomatoes were seeded into three soil types and treated with three rates of pebulate and diphenamid and then grown under three temperature regimes for 25 days. The fresh weights of tops and roots were reduced as the concentration of herbicide was increased, and these weights were further reduced as the temperature was increased and as the clay content of the soil decreased. Under field conditions, neither pebulate nor diphenamid treatments caused these deleterious effects to tomato plants as measured by the number of emerging seedlings and the yield of fruit. Pebulate produced inconsistent and generally poor weed control. Diphenamid gave promising preemergence control of grasses but inconsistent control of broad-leaf weeds. Pebulate left no toxic residues in the soil, however, diphenamid residues remained in the soil to be phytotoxic to wheat planted in the fall of the same year. The penetration of pebulate and diphenamid down a soil column appeared to depend partly on the flow of water through the profile and partly on the adsorption by soil particles. Diphenamid moved down the profile more readily than pebulate.
Reduction of Water Loss From Chrysanthemum morifolium Following Foliar Applications of Phenylmercuric Acetate1
Authors: Cocking W. D. , Tukey H. B.
Published: August 2022

A foliar application of 5 × 10−5 M phenylmercuric acetate plus a wetting agent reduced water loss by transpiration from chrysanthemum plants by more than 30% for a period of 4 days following treatment without causing tissue damage or inhibiting growth and flowering. This reduction of transpiration was associated with a reduction of stomatal pore size. However, treatment concentration was critical, as foliar damage and reduction in growth occurred at high concentrations of PMA.
Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency on Leaves and Fruit of ‘York Imperial’ Apple1
Authors: Shear C. B.
Published: August 2022

Symptoms of Ca deficiency on the foliage and fruit of ‘York Imperial’ apple trees grown in controlled nutrient cultures are described. Earliest leaf symptoms are chlorosis and upward cupping of youngest leaves followed by marginal necrosis. Fully expanded leaves may develop, on their upper surfaces, chlorotic spots and pustules which later become necrotic. Some leaves may develop almost white margins without necrosis. Earliest fruit symptom is a diffused, golden-amber skin color on exposed surface. Lenticels become prominent, turn brown and develop a brown to black halo. Cracks may radiate from the calyx and, in extreme cases, encircle the fruit which soon drops. Fruit symptoms occur at levels of Ca nutrition above those at which leaf symptoms occur. High N aggravates the development of symptoms on both leaves and fruit.
The Influence of Strins and Rootstocks on Photosynthesis, Respiration, and Morphology of ‘Delicious’ Apple Trees1
Authors: Ferree M. E. , Barden J. A.
Published: August 2022

The performance of young container grown apple trees of two ‘Delicious’ strains was studied under greenhouse conditions in a 2 year experiment. ‘Redspur Delicious’, a spur type strain, and ‘Richared Delicious’ were grown on seedling rootstocks in the first season and on seedling, MM 106, and M VII-A rootstocks the following year. Net photosynthesis (Pn) of ‘Redspur’ leaves tended to be higher than the Pn of ‘Richared’ leaves. One season’s data indicated that the Pn of leaves of greenhouse grown trees on seedling rootstocks was higher than those on MM 106. Leaves of trees on M VII-A were intermediate in Pn. The respiration rates were not affected by strains or rootstocks. Standard2 ‘Delicious’ trees were more vigorous than trees of the spur type as indicated by greater shoot length, internode length, leaf number and total leaf area. The spur type trees had, however, a greater bark-wood ratio. Rootstocks affected both leaf size and leaf dry weight, but strains did not.
Effect of Kinetin and 1-Naphthylacetic Acid on Root-Knot Nematodes in Resistant and Susceptible Peach Rootstocks1
Authors: Kochba J. , Samish R. M.
Published: August 2022

The root-knot nematode M. javanica did not develop on two-month-old peach seedlings of the resistant cvs. Nemaguard and Okinawa, even when they were copiously inoculated with egg masses of the nematode, under conditions in which seedlings of the susceptible ‘Baladi’ supported a considerable nematode population. However, when “resistant” seedlings were wick-fed with kinetin or NAA, the development of a normal nematode population became possible. The 2 substances produced synergistic stimulating effects on nematode development; they also increased the nematode population in the susceptible cultivar.

The effect on the plant of NAA supplied by this technique was expressed in increased root growth and reduced top growth. It caused the development of swelled, non-suberized branch roots which became the favored habitat of the nematodes. Kinetin at the concentrations used, on the other hand, had no visible effect on the growth of the seedlings. The possible role of kinetin and NAA in altering the host-parasite relationship is discussed.
The Effect of Succinic Acid-2,2-dime thy lhydrazide (SADH) on the Sensory Quality of ‘McIntosh’ Apples1
Authors: Murphy Elizabeth F. , Stiles Warren C. , True Ruth H.
Published: August 2022

In November and December 1967, 32°F air stored apples from trees treated with 2,000 ppm succinic acid-2,2-dimethylhydrazide (SADH) were ranked significantly poorer in flavor than fruits from non-treated trees and trees treated with 2, 4, 5-TP, NAA and 2, 4, 5-TP plus NAA. Flavor was not consistently related to soluble solids, sugars, pH, or acid. In May 1970, CA-stored apples from trees treated with zero, 500 and 1,000 ppm were similar in flavor and superior in comparison with apples treated with 2,000 ppm SADH. None of the samples was characterized as “off-flavor”. All SADH treated samples were significantly higher in titratable acid in 1970 but not in 1967.
Synthesis of a Jointless Fusarium Resistant Strain of Tomato by Circumvention of the X Gametophytic Factor1
Authors: Honma S. , Vriesenga J. D.
Published: August 2022

The development of a jointless, Fusarium resistant tomato strain was complicated by a gametophytic factor. The backcross was made using the F1 as the female parent with the recessive parent as the male to eliminate competition. The backcross population was screened for Fusarium resistance. Survivors were selected for the jointless character and selfed to obtain progenies to test for Fusarium resistance. One plant family showing the predicted 4:1 ratio was recovered but no plant family showing the predicted 3:1 ratio was recovered.
Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium on Yield and Leaf Analysis of Southern Pea1
Authors: Worley Ray E. , Hegwood D. A. , Harmon S. A.
Published: August 2022

Although variation between years was large, yield responses were obtained from N in 3 years, P in 2 years, and K in 1 year of the 4 year test. Results indicated that application levels should be 25-50 lb of N/A, 11-22 lb of P/A, and not over 42 lb of K/A. A complete fertilizer supplying 50-22-42 lb of N-P-K/A gave the highest average yield. Fertilizer treatments had little effect on leaf analysis at harvest in 1963, and correlation coefficients were not significant for leaf mineral concentration of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Mn, Fe, B, Zn, Al, Mo, Ni, Sr, Ba, and Ti with yield. Significant negative correlation coefficients were found for yield with leaf Cu, Zn, Al, and Ti, but they were all -.36 or less.
Hybrid Broccoli Seed Production Utilizing the ms6 Gene for Male Sterility1
Authors: Borchers E. A.
Published: August 2022

Broccoli plants homozygous for the ms6 male sterility gene were grown in the field and greenhouse in several experiments under fluctuating temperatures that averaged from 59° to 64°F. In these environments male sterile plants produced small amounts of pollen with relatively high percentages of abortive grains, and they did not function well in setting seed. In crossing experiments in field and greenhouse, using male sterile seed plants and male fertile pollinators, high percentages of hybrid seed were obtained.
Tuberculosis and COVID-19: Medical and Social Aspects
Authors: Savintseva E. V. , Isaeva P. V. , Nizamova G. F.
Published: August 2022

The review considers data from 28 publications devoted to the specific impact of COVID-19 on the course of tuberculosis. It describes diagnosis and clinical manifestations in case of co-infection of these two diseases. Also, it discusses the social impact of lockdowns and restrictive measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic on the treatment of tuberculosis. The article discusses the impact of BCG vaccination on the immune response to the coronavirus.
Tuberculosis Surveillance in Dushanbe: a Way Forward to Strengthening
Authors: Sidzhotkhonov А. А. , Tilloeva Z. Kh. , Dzhafarov N. Dzh. , Amirzoda А. А. , Pirmakhmadzoda B. P. , Nabirova D. А.
Published: August 2022

The objective: to evaluate the current tuberculosis surveillance system in Dushanbe for each of the following parameters: simplicity, flexibility, acceptability, sensitivity, and promptness of response; to provide recommendations to improve the system.Methods. The tuberculosis surveillance system was evaluated in the city of Dushanbe in April-May 2021 using updated guidelines of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for evaluating public health surveillance systems, 2006.Result: The system fulfills its goals and objectives, but has gaps in promptness of response, acceptability and representativeness.Conclusions. The tuberculosis surveillance system needs to be improved and requires professional development training of family medicine workers, TB specialists, and epidemiologists.
The 2021 Performance Report of the Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Authors:   Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia,  Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Zulkapli Nour Azimah , Abdullah Jafri Malin ,   Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: August 2022

This is a report on the annual performance of the Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) in 2021. It includes the important metrics of journal impact measurement and the appointment of experts within their respective fields as new members of the Editorial Board.
Victimisation, Depression and Suicidal Ideation among Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Adults in Malaysia
Authors:   Center for Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Ibrahim Norhayati ,   Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Aen Magtum ,   Clinical Psychology Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Amit Noh ,   Center for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Said Zaini ,   Center for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Siau Ching Sin ,   Center for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: August 2022

Background: Lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) individuals have been found to experience a high prevalence of psychological conditions. The present study aims to examine the relationship between victimisation, depression and suicidal ideation among LGB adults in Malaysia. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design. We distributed the questionnaire online using snowball sampling and self-identified LGB adults responded to the survey. Scales on sexual minority-specific victimisation, depression and suicidal ideation were employed. The data were analysed using Spearman rank order correlation and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: The study included 220 adults in Malaysia (156 males and 64 females; 58 lesbian, 112 gays and 50 bisexuals). Ninety-two participants (41.8%) reported experiencing sexual minority- specific victimisation; 29 participants (13.2%), 35 participants (15.9%) and 23 participants (10.5%) were mildly, moderately and severely depressed, respectively and 44.0% participants were experiencing current suicidal ideation. The correlations were fair (rs = 0.30) between victimisation and depression, poor (rs = 0.16) between victimisation and suicidal ideation, and moderate (rs = 0.60) between depression and suicidal ideation. There were no differences between homosexual and bisexual participants in victimisation, depression and suicidal ideation. Conclusion: This study contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between victimisation, depression and suicidal ideation among LGB adults in Malaysia.
The Effectiveness of Tailored Interactive Multimedia Software based on the Trans-Theoretical Model for the Promotion of Physical Activity Behaviours
Authors:   Department of Health Education, School of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran, Jalali Somayeh , Roozbahani Nasrin ,   Department of Health Education, School of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran, Shamsi Mohsen ,   Department of Health Education, School of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
Published: August 2022

Background: Although physical activity (PA) is essential, it is difficult to motivate people to take part in PA, especially the ones with high blood pressure (hypertension). One of the most commonly applied theoretical frameworks to change health behaviours is the Trans-Theoretical Model (TTM). The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of tailored, interactive multimedia software based on TTM for the promotion of PA behaviours among Iranian adults. Methods: This interventional study selected 120 healthy individuals aged 30 years old–50 years old from health centres in Delijan, Iran using multi-stage sampling. The participants were in the pre-contemplation and contemplation stages of PA behaviour. For the intervention, an active multimedia training (active life) based on TTM, like six training sessions of approximately 30 min (once a week) plus aerobic exercise videos were designed and provided to the intervention group. Data was collected using a valid and reliable questionnaire before and 6 months after the intervention and analysed using statistical tests. Results: The mean age of the participants was 38.20 (SD = 7.11) years old. Six months after the intervention, 61.7% of the individuals in the intervention group and 3.3% in the control group progressed to the action stage, which was significant only in the intervention group (P < 0.001). There was a significant increase in PA in both groups, yet this increase was significantly higher in the intervention group (36.02 [SD = 31.22] to 146.16 [SD = 90.43]; P < 0.001) compared to the control group (33.41 [SD = 28.33] to 54.41 [SD = 44.02; P < 0.001). Conclusion: The results obtained indicated that the implementation of educational intervention using multimedia designed based on TTM could be used as one of the effective strategies to promote PA to prevent hypertension in adults.
Relationship between Parenting Style and Risk of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Elementary School Children
Authors:   Medical Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia, Setyanisa Alma Rossabela , Setiawati Yunias ,   Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga/ Dr. Soetomo Academic Medical Center Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia, Irwanto Irwanto ,   Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga/ Dr. Soetomo Academic Medical Center Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia, Fithriyah Izzatul ,   Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga/ Dr. Soetomo Academic Medical Center Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia, Prabowo Satria Arief ,   Vaccine Centre and Tuberculosis Centre, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Disease, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
Published: August 2022

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in a child with three symptoms, which include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness that may persist into adulthood for some conditions. Parenting style is thought to be one part that determines the risk of ADHD in children. This study aims to analyse the relationship between parenting styles and the risk of ADHD in children. Methods: Employing a cross-sectional design, this study was conducted in Surabaya from November 2020 to January 2021. The respondents of the study were parents who had children at risk of ADHD with a total of 55 samples recruited using the purposive sampling technique. The questionnaires used are the demographic questionnaire, Abbreviated Conners Rating Scale (ACRS), and the Parenting Style Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (KPAA), which were filled out online by the respondents. The data were processed and analysed using the bivariate analysis test, Pearson’s chi-squared test, which has a significant value if the P-value < 0.05. Results: The majority of the parents used the authoritative style (94.5%). There was a significant relationship between parenting style and the risk of ADHD in children with P < 0.001 for authoritarian and permissive styles and P = 0.005 for an authoritative style. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between parenting style and the risk of ADHD in children. This indicates the importance of early diagnosis of ADHD and treating the children with ADHD in the context of family environment, especially from parenting style.
Analysis of Naproxen in Rabbit Plasma by GC-MS Method
Authors: YİLMAZ Bilal
Published: August 2022

Naproxen is one of the most used drugs today. Therefore, it is important to develop new and simple methods for the determination of naproxen. The goal of this research is to develop a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method for analyzing naproxen levels in rabbit plasma and apply this method to the pharmacokinetic study. The liquid-liquid extraction technique was used to prepare blood samples from rabbits. Separation of naproxen was achieved on an HP-5 MS column. The method’s calibration curve was plotted between 0.1 and 5.0 μg mL-1. The accuracy results were better than 2.18% and the precision results were less than 4.17% in rabbit plasma for naproxen. The method had recovery values >94.2% for all samples in rabbit plasma. In addition, the validated method was used to study naproxen pharmacokinetics in rabbits. The maximum naproxen plasma concentration is 42.1±4.243 μg mL-1. The duration to attain the greatest naproxen concentration and the area under the curve from (AUC0-16 h) were 1.50±0.196 h and 566.3±41.72 μg mL-1 h.
Aromatic or Hetero-aromatic Directly Attached Tri and Tetrasubstituted
Methanes: New Chemical Entities as Anti-Infectives
Authors: Roy Deblina , Thakare Ritesh P. , Chopra Sidharth , Panda Gautam
Published: August 2022

Tri and Tetra-substituted Methanes (TRSMs) are a significant structural motif
in many approved drugs and prodrugs. There is increasing use of TRSM units in medicinal
chemistry, and many derivatives are specifically designed to make drug–target interactions
through new chemical space around TRSM moiety. In this perspective, we describe
synthetic challenges for accessing a range of functionalized selective TRSMs and their
molecular mechanism of action, especially as anti-infectives. Natural anti-infectives like
(+)-Bionectin A, B, (+)-Gliocladine C, Balanocarpol having TRSMs selectively and effectively
bind to target proteins in comparison to planar motif having more sp2 carbons perhaps
due to conformation which reduces the penalty for conformational entropy with the
enhancement of three-dimensionality. Properties of repurposed TRSMs like Almitrine,
Ifenprodil, Baricitinib and Remdesivir with their recent progress in COVID-19 therapeutics
with their mode of action are also delineated. This perspective is expected to deliver a
user guide and reference source for scientists, researchers and academicians in pursuing
newly designed TRSMs as therapeutics.
A Unifying Perspective in Blunting the Limited Oral Bioavailability of Curcumin: A Succinct Look
Authors: Balakumar Pitchai , Alqahtani Taha , Alqahtani Ali , Lakshmiraj R. Sulochana , Singh Gurfateh , Rupeshkumar Mani , Thangathirupathi A. , Sundram Karupiah
Published: August 2022

Background:

Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound derived from rhizomes of Curcuma longa, the golden spice. Curcumin has drawn much attention in recent years of biomedical research owing to its wide variety of biologic and pharmacologic actions. It exerts antiproliferative, antifibrogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects, among various imperative pharmacologic actions. In spite of its well-documented efficacies against numerous disease conditions, the limited systemic bioavailability of curcumin is a continuing concern. Perhaps, the poor bioavailability of curcumin may have curtailed its significant development from kitchen to clinic as a potential therapeutic agent. Subsequently, there have been a considerable number of studies over decades researching the scientific basis of curcumin’s reduced bioavailability and eventually improvement of its bioavailability employing a variety of therapeutic approaches, for instance, in combination with piperine, the bio-active constituent of black pepper. Piperine has remarkable potential to modulate the functional activity of metabolic enzymes and drug transporters, and thus there has been a great interest in the therapeutic application of this widely used spice as alternative medicine and bioavailability enhancer. Growing body of evidence supports the synergistic potential of curcumin against numerous pathologic conditions when administered with piperine.

Conclusion:

In light of current challenges, the major concern pertaining to poor systemic bioavailability of curcumin, its improvement, especially in combination with piperine, and the necessity of additional research in this setting are together described in this review. Besides, the recent advances in the potential therapeutic rationale and efficacy of curcumin-piperine combination, a promising duo, against various pathologic conditions are delineated.
A Comprehensive Study to Explore Tyrosinase Inhibitory Medicinal
Plants and Respective Phytochemicals for Hyperpigmentation; Molecular
Approach and Future Perspectives
Authors: Insaf Areeba , Parveen Rabea , Gautam Gaurav , Samal Monalisha , Zahiruddin Sultan , Ahmad Sayeed
Published: August 2022

Tyrosinase is acopper-containing key substance in the pigmentation of mammalian hair and skin. Melanin synthesis is influenced by variety of extrinsic and internal variables, including hormone fluctuations, inflammation, ageing, and subsequent ultraviolet light exposure. Melasma, senile lentigines, freckles, and diminished colour are all undesirable side effects of excessive melanin production. The current review provides the pursuit of effective and safe tyrosinase inhibitors derived from medicinal plants, and ascribes an updated inferences on current practices. Commercially available tyrosinase inhibitors provide an even skin tone and are used clinically to treat hyperpigmentation and related disorders. This review focuses on the mechanism of melanogenesis and on experimentally verified potent and natural tyrosinase inhibitors. Bioactive compounds such as phenols, flavonoids, stilbenes, and a few traditional herbal formulations from the Indian system of medicine, have been used since long in India and subcontinents for the effective management of melanogenesis and related problems. Scientific information was gathered from different sources of databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Springer, Scopus, and Science Direct, as well as the literature found in medicinal plant books. This critically summarized review ensures to aid researchers and enterprises working on tyrosinase inhibitors and on conditions associated with melanogenesis, to get one-step solutions for identifying more safe and effective natural remedies.
Nanoformulations of Plant-Derived Compounds as Emerging Therapeutic Approach for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Biganeh Hossein , Dizaji Sahand Mirzaei , Taghipour Yasamin Davatgaran , Murtaza Ghulam , Rahimi Roja
Published: August 2022

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents one of the most daunting health problems accompanied by progressive undesirable socio-economic effects. Phytochemicals, bioactive ingredients majorly found in plants, have gained momentum for their potential against CRC occurrence and regression. However, these phytoconstituents are not exempt of biopharmaceutical drawbacks; therefore, novel strategies, especially nanotechnology, are exploited to surmount the aforementioned bottlenecks. The current paper aims to comprehensively review the phytochemical-based nanoformulations and their mechanisms in the setting of CRC.

Methods:

Electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched with the keywords "colon cancer" or "colorectal cancer", and "plant", "phytochemical", "extract", or "herb", and "nano", "nanoformulation", "Nanoencapsulation", "nanoparticle", "nanostructure", or "nanoliposome", until January 2021.

Results:

Of the 1230 research hits, only 69 articles were consequently analyzed. The results indicated nanoformulations of several secondary plant metabolites such as berberine, camptothecin, colchicine, apigenin, chrysin, fisetin, quercetin, curcumin, gallic acid, resveratrol, and ursolic acid have profound effects in a broad range of preclinical models of CRC. A wide variety of nanoformulations have been utilized to deliver these phytochemicals, such as nanocomposite, nanocolloids, and mesoporous silica nanoparticles, which have consequently decreased tumor angiogenesis and mitochondrial membrane potential, increased radical scavenging activity, induced cell cycle arrest at different phases of the cancer cell cycle, and induction of apoptosis process via decreased anti-apoptotic proteins (BRAF, CD44, and Bcl-2) and increased in pro-apoptotic ones (Bax, Fas, caspase 3,8, and 9), as well as modulated biopharmaceutical properties. Chitosan and PEG and their derivatives are among the most polymers exploited in the phytochemicals’ nanoformulations.

Conclusion and perspective:

To conclude, nanoformulated forms of natural ingredients depicted outstanding anti-CRC activity that could hold promise for help in treating CRC. However, well-designed clinical trials are needed to build up a whole picture of the health profits of nanoformulation of natural products in CRC management.
Fundamentals and Applications of Isolated Perfused Lung (IPL) Model in
the Development of Pulmonary Drug Delivery
Authors: Mireskandari Katayoon , Ardakani Yalda H. , Moghadam Ebrahim S. , Ketabchi Farzaneh , Rouini Mohammadreza
Published: August 2022

Estimating parameters such as pulmonary drug disposition and deposited dose, as well as
determining the influence of pulmonary pharmacokinetics (PK) on drug efficacy and safety, are critical
factors for the development of inhaled drug products and help to achieve a better understanding of the
drugs’ fate in the lungs. Pulmonary disposition and PK have remained poorly understood due to the
difficulty to access pulmonary fluids, compared to other biological fluids, such as plasma, for direct or
surrogate measurement of the concentration of the active compounds and their metabolites in the lung.
The use of the isolated perfused lung model (IPL) has become more common, and it is considered a
useful tool to increase understanding in this area since it offers the possibility of controlling the administration
and easier sampling of perfusate and lavage fluid. The model also provides an opportunity to
study the relationship between PK and pharmacodynamics. This review describes the fundamentals of
the IPL model, such as preparation and setting up the method, species selection, drug administration,
and lung viability investigation. Besides, different applications of the IPL model like pharmacodynamic
studies, pharmacokinetic parameters studies such as absorption, distribution, and metabolism, and evaluation
of inhaled formulation have also been reviewed.
Clinical Progress in Gold Nanoparticle (GNP)-mediated Photothermal
Cancer Therapy
Authors: Palaniappan Kavitha
Published: August 2022

The field of oncotherapy has always been looking out for alternative treatment methods
that have much lesser side effects compared to the currently used therapies that lower the patients’
quality of life. Gold Nanoparticle (GNP)-mediated photothermal therapies are proving to be a boon
as they are both non-invasive and tumour-specific. This review analyses how GNPs can help right
from the beginning, that is, the diagnosis of cancer, to the end, that is, effective ablation of cancerous
cells. Their ability to function as photothermal absorbers, targeted drug deliverers, and inducers of
photoimmunity are reviewed in detail, bringing out the current clinical progress in each of those areas.
Even though they stand to be a promising solution for cancer therapy, it is necessary to understand
their biodegradation and in vivo toxicity before their extensive clinical usage.
The Effect of Intranasal Oxytocin on Sexual Function in Men and Women:
A Systematic Review
Authors: Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Ghorbani Zahra
Published: August 2022

Background:

Intranasal oxytocin can be used as a promising moiety for the treatment of
sexual disorders.

Objective:

This study was carried out to systematically review the effect of intranasal oxytocin on
sexual function in men and women

Methods:

We systematically searched databases (e.g., Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials
Library, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, Google Scholar and Persian databases). All
types of published clinical trials comparing different doses of intranasal oxytocin sprays with placebo
sprays were included in the study. The primary outcome was sexual function and secondary outcomes
were endocrine and cardiovascular measures and also side effects

Results:

A total of six studies were ultimately eligible for inclusion in the study. Though intranasal
oxytocin improves various parameters of sexual function in men and women, according to the sexual
response cycle, these changes are not statistically meaningful compared to the control group. Only one
study revealed a meaningful impact on orgasm parameters and after orgasm, especially in men. In all
studies, intranasal oxytocin administration has significantly and transiently increased plasma concentrations of oxytocin with no meaningful effect on other endocrine hormones. A study showed that the
heartbeat is increased transiently during the arousal and orgasm stages, and such increase is meaningfully higher in men than in women.

Conclusion:

Intranasal oxytocin administration fails to meaningfully affect the classical parameters of
sexual response, but it improves the orgasmic and post-orgasmic dimensions, especially in men. To
evaluate the effects of intranasal oxytocin administrations, we need more long-term clinical trials.
Scutellarin Mediates Cytochrome P450 3A4 and 2C19 Expression via
Pregnane X Receptor and Constitutive Androstane Receptor
Authors: Yang Xiaoli , Lai Yong , Huang Hangxing , Cao Change , Miao Zhimin
Published: August 2022

Background:

Breviscapine is a flavonoid extracted from Erigeron breviscapus (Vant.) Hand.-Mazz., and mainly contains scutellarin. Nuclear receptors play important roles in regulating transporter and drug metabolic enzymes.

Objective:

To investigate the regulatory effects of scutellarin on CYP3A4 and 2C19 in HepG2 and Caco-2 cells based on nuclear receptors PXR and CAR.

Methods:

The proteins and mRNA levels of CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 treated with scutellarin were detected by Western Blot and RT-qPCR. Using assays of the dual-luciferase reporter, promoter sequences containing hPXR and hCAR protein recognition and binding regulatory elements CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 were inserted upstream of the reporter gene, and the expression vector and the reporter vector were cotransfected into HepG2 and Caco-2 cells.

Result:

Scutellarin inhibited mRNA of CYP3A4 and PXR, promoted mRNA expression of CYP2C19 and CAR in RT-qPCR results. Western-blot results showed scutellarin inhibited the expression of CYP3A4 and promoted the expression of CYP2C19. The dual-luciferase reporter genes showed that scutellarin enhanced the expression level of CYP2C19 and when its concentration was 40 and 80μmol/L, CYP3A4 is significantly increased.

Conclusions:

Scutellarin down-regulates CYP3A4 through PXR, and its mechanism may be through up-regulating CAR and binding to PXR to inhibit PXR-mediated expression of CYP3A4. Scutellarin up-regulates CYP2C19 through CAR.