bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological resources in male prisoners: an application of the growth resources model
Authors: Piotrowski Przemysław , Pasowicz Maciej
Published: June 2021

Aim of the study

The main goals of this article are to describe the Growth Resources Model and to present the preliminary results of a research project that applied this model to an actual male prison population.

Subject or material and methods

The study was conducted in two prisons in Southern Poland – 37 inmates took part in it. To compare the results with a control group, 34 men that had never been in prison were also tested with the GRQ form.

Results

The results indicate that prisoners put a high value on their psychological resources, with positive emotions being of highest importance. Furthermore, prisoners exhibit less trust in others than non-prisoners.

Discussion

The dominance of positive emotions and a high evaluation of personal psychological resources are surprising characteristics of inmates. The key to the analysis of the results seems to be the notion of self-enhancement. The term can be used both in the context of self-promotion and self-protection. Maintaining a positive self-image is often related to a preference for information consistent with such positive self-image, even if this requires a biased interpretation or unrealistic reinterpretation of features or events. When a person intends to act contrary to his or her own image, there are various ways of reducing cognitive dissonance that allow such incongruous behaviour while maintaining a positive self-image.

Conclusions

We argue that the Growth Resources Model can be used in the context of criminal psychology and social rehabilitation.
Borderline personality disorder as asyndrome of poor quality of object relations
Authors: Cheek Joanna , Kealy David , ogrodniczuk John , Joyce Anthony
Published: June 2021

Objective: Interpersonal dysfunction is a hallmark feature of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Representing lifelong relational patterns based in internal representations, quality of object relations (QOR) has been theorized as a core aspect of borderline personality pathology; yet empirical inquiry of this relationship has been limited. The present study investigated the association between QOR and BPD in the context of other salient correlates of BPD.
Method: Participants were 137 outpatients obtaining care at an intensive treatment program for patients with personality dysfunction. BPD was assessed using two interview-based instruments. A separate interviewer-rated assessment of quality of object relations was administered by a different set of assessors. Participants also completed self-report measures of symptom distress, five-factor personality, and dysphoric affects.
Results: Regarding BPD severity, QOR emerged as the only significant predictor with all variables in the model. Similarly, logistic regression found that QOR was associated with a significantly greater likelihood of having a diagnosis of BPD, after accounting for the effects of the other variables in the model.
Conclusion: QOR is significantly and uniquely associated with BPD, suggesting that internalized representations of self and others play an important role underlying BPD pathology.
Effects of variation in dopaminergic genes on the level of aggression and emotional intelligence in adolescents with conduct disorder
Authors: Halicka Joanna , Szewczuk-Bogusławska Monika , Pawlak-Adamska Edyta , Adamska Agnieszka , Misiak Błażej
Published: June 2021

It has been reported that altered dopaminergic neurotransmission may contribute to the development of aggressive behaviors and emotional intelligence (EI) impairment. However, less is known about the impact of polymorphisms in dopaminergic genes on the level of aggression and EI. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) rs6277 gene polymorphism and the dopamine 2 receptor (DRD2) rs4680 gene polymorphism as well as the level of aggression and EI in adolescents with conduct disorder. Participants were 144 adolescents with conduct disorder recruited at the youth sociotherapy centre. The Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ) was administered to record the level of aggression while the Popular Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (PEIQ) and the Schutte Self-Report Inventory (SSRI) were used to assess EI. We found no significant associations between selected polymorphisms and the scores of BPAQ, PEIQ and SSRI. Our findings do not support the role of the COMT and the DRD2 gene polymorphisms in shaping aggressive behaviors and EI in adolescents with conduct disorder. Longitudinal studies on larger populations are needed to confirm these results.
Selected predictors of educational achievements in students
Authors: Napora Elżbieta
Published: June 2021

Aim of the study

The aim of the study was to point to the determinants of school achievement in adolescent students

Subject or material and methods

To answer the research question - which predictors can explain school achievements in adolescents divided by gender - data was collected from 81 subjects using the Pressure Measurement Scale – PMS-18, Family Relations Questionnaire (FRQ) and the students’ average term score was taken into account.

Results

In comparison with the boys, the girls’ grade point average results were significantly higher (p = 0.019).

Discussion

In the studied sample of girls, however, neither resilience, nor dimensions of their relationship with the mother co-impacted the girls’ school performance. Nevertheless, the model in which all predictors were introduced turned out to be significant on the level of tendency.

Conclusions

The obtained results showed that the significant factors impacting school achievements of boys include, apart from high resilience, the dimension of autonomy/control in their relationship with the mother.
From Editors
Authors: Cyranka Katarzyna
Published: June 2021

The current issue, which we are handing over to you, covers a very wide spectrum of topics close to the heart of psychiatrists and psychologists. Undoubtedly, the article by Henryk Axer is supporting the currently developing model of community treatment in mental disorders. Such small community – based residential programs offer mental health treatment and 24/7 personal care support for adults experiencing severe mental
illness. The principles of dealing with residents are of key importance and, according to the author, can gradually improve the independent functioning and coping mechanisms of patients. What are these methods? Take a look at the article, it is definitely worth it, especially at a time when we are debating about the reform of psychiatry in Poland.
Identification of a multi-stack structure of graphene electrodes doped layer-by-layer with benzimidazole and its implication for the design of optoelectronic devices
Authors: Cho Hyunsu , Song Jinouk , Shin Jin-Wook , Moon Jaehyun , Kwon Byoung-Hwa , Lee Jeong-Ik , Yoo Seunghyup , Cho Nam Sung
Published: June 2021

Optical properties of benzimidazole (BI)-doped layer-by-layer graphene differ significantly from those of intrinsic graphene. Our study based on transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profiling reveals that such a difference stems from its peculiar stratified geometry formed in situ during the doping process. This work presents an effective thickness and optical constants that can treat these multi-stacked BI-doped graphene electrodes as a single equivalent medium. For verification, the efficiency and angular emission spectra of organic light-emitting diodes with the BI-doped graphene electrode are modeled with the proposed method, and we demonstrate that the calculation matches experimental results in a much narrower margin than that based on the optical properties of undoped graphene.
Frequency sweep extension using the Kerr effect for static temperature measurement range enhancement in Chirped Pulse φ-OTDR
Authors: Wang Yuan , Krarup Ole , Chen Liang , Bao Xiaoyi
Published: June 2021

In Chirped Pulse φ-OTDR systems used for sensing temperature or strain along an optical fiber, the largest disturbance between two single-shot measurements that can reliably be detected depends on the range of frequencies swept by the chirped pulse. If electrical modulation is used to generate the laser frequency sweep, the achievable sweeping range is limited by the electrical components, leading to a narrow measurement range for static measurements. In this work, we demonstrate the extension of the frequency range of a chirped laser pulse by all-optical means using evenly spaced frequency sidebands generated via the Kerr effect to improve the Chirped Pulse φ-OTDR measurement range. We report chirp extensions by factors up to 13 and apply the effect to achieve a sixfold increase in the measurement range of a Chirped Pulse φ-OTDR system measuring the temperature of a random fiber grating array. The method described in this paper can be applied to other optical systems utilizing chirped laser pulses and allow for variable extension of their chirping range.
Luminescence intensity ratio thermometry based on combined ground and excited states absorptions of Tb3+ doped CaWO4
Authors: Yuan Zhou , Lixin Peng , Peng Tan , Zhiguo Zhang
Published: June 2021

Luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) thermometry is of great interest, because of its wide applications of noninvasive temperature sensing. Here, a LIR thermometry based on combined ground and excited states absorptions is developed using CaWO4:Tb3+. The ratio of single luminescence (5D4-7F5) intensities under 379 and 413 nm excitations with opposite temperature dependences, attributed to the thermal coupling of ground state 7F6 and excited state 7F5, is used to measure temperature. This LIR method achieves a high relative sensitivity of 2.8% K-1, and can avoid complex spectral splitting by collecting all down-shifting luminescence bands, being a promising accurate luminescence thermometry.
Comparisons of kilowatt Yb-Raman fiber amplifiers employing a superfluorescent fiber source and fiber oscillator
Authors: Song Jiaxin , Wu Hanshuo , Ren Shuai , Liu Wei , Ma Pengfei , Xiao Hu , Zhou Pu
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we demonstrate experimental investigations on kilowatt-level Yb-Raman fiber amplifiers (YRFAs) employing a superfluorescent fiber source (SFS) or a multi-longitudinal mode fiber oscillator (OSC) as the Raman-pump laser. Through comparing the output properties of the two YRFAs, the experimental results reveal that the YRFA employing the SFS is superior to the YRFA employing the OSC in the performances of power scalability and narrow-linewidth operation. Meanwhile, about 1.16 kW Raman-signal laser at 1120 nm is obtained through the YRFA employing the SFS as the Raman-pump laser. Overall, the presentation could provide an effective solution for the design of high-power narrow linewidth YRFAs.
Quantitative terahertz emission nanoscopy with multiresonant near-field probes
Authors: Mooshammer Fabian , Plankl Markus , Siday Thomas , Zizlsperger Martin , Sandner Fabian , Vitalone Rocco , Jing Ran , Huber Markus A. , Basov D. N. , Huber Rupert
Published: June 2021

By sampling terahertz waveforms emitted from InAs surfaces, we reveal how the entire, realistic geometry of typical near-field probes drastically impacts the broadband electromagnetic fields. In the time domain, these modifications manifest as a shift in the carrier-envelope phase and emergence of a replica pulse with a time delay dictated by the length of the cantilever. This interpretation is fully corroborated by quantitative simulations of terahertz emission nanoscopy based on the finite element method. Our approach provides a solid theoretical framework for quantitative nanospectroscopy and sets the stage for a reliable description of subcycle, near-field microscopy at terahertz frequencies.
Topological edge states in an all-dielectric terahertz photonic crystal
Authors: Monika Devi Koijam , Jana Sambhu , Roy Chowdhury Dibakar
Published: June 2021

We present an analysis of the robustness of topological edge states in an all-dielectric photonic crystal slab in the terahertz (THz) frequency domain. We initially design a valley photonic crystal (VPC) exhibiting a nontrivial band topology. The excitation of the topological edge states in the structure is facilitated through a zigzag domain wall constructed by interfacing two types of VPCs with distinct band topologies. The robustness of the excited edge states is probed with respect to the magnitude and the sign of the asymmetry in terms of the hole diameters in the VPC, for different domain interfaces. Our study reveals that the topological edge states in the VPC structure are achieved only when the domain walls are formed by the larger air holes (i.e., asymmetry parameter has a positive value). In the case of the domain walls formed by relatively smaller air holes (i.e., asymmetry parameter has a negative value), the topological protection of the edge states is forbidden. For positive asymmetry, we demonstrate that the topological transport of THz becomes more robust with the increasing magnitude of asymmetry in the VPC structure. A robust propagation of topological edge states and strong confinement of electromagnetic fields within the domain wall are observed for asymmetry ranging from 28% to 42% in our structure. We have adopted a generic technique and therefore, the results of our study could be achieved at other frequency regimes by scaling the size parameters of the structure appropriately. At THz frequencies, such extensive analysis on the robustness of the topological edge states could be relevant for the realization of low-loss waveguides for 6G communication and other integrated photonic devices.
Multifunctional wavefront-controlled metasurface for generating multiform quasi non-diffracting beams
Authors: Liu Dawei , Yu Tianliang , Ren Liru , Shi Sen , Wu Pei
Published: June 2021

Multiform electromagnetic beams (multi-direction, multi-polarization, multi-frequency, and multi-beam) generated by ultrathin metasurfaces show promising prospects in multiple optical traps, modern communication systems, and identification in complex environments. However, their application is limited by their inability to generate desired multiform beams simultaneously. Here, a multifunctional surface using a polarization selection structure and integrated electric and magnetic structures is proposed to solve the above problem. This surface is composed of three layers with weak coupling that can achieve different quasi-nondiffracting beams. The top and bottom layers are reflective surfaces that can reflect two different incident waves to generate two types of quasi-non-diffracting beams. The middle layer is a transmissive surface that can transmit another incident wave to generate the third type of quasi-non-diffracting beams. For verification, the surface was fabricated and tested. The results of a full-wave simulation and measurements revealed that three different forms of quasi-non-diffracting beams could be generated by the proposed surface.
Structural and optical properties of Be-doped high-quality self-catalyzed GaAs nanowires
Authors: Kang Yubin , Li Haolin , Tang Jilong , Jia Huimin , Hou Xiaobing , Li Xiang , Chu Xueying , Li Kexue , Lin Fengyuan , Wang Xiaohua , Wei Zhipeng
Published: June 2021

Crystal-phase control and crystalline quality improvement of GaAs nanowires (NWs) have been realized by dopant (Be) incorporation in GaAs NWs. We demonstrate the improvement of crystalline quality by X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra combined with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The crystal-phase control from the wurtzite (WZ)/zinc blende (ZB) mixed phase to the pure ZB phase under the effect of Be doping is clearly revealed by Raman spectra combined with HRTEM. The photoluminescence (PL) revealed the free exciton and WZ/ZB type-II emission peaks of undoped GaAs NWs transform into Be impurity-related emission peak of Be-doped GaAs NWs.
“Feeling Safe, Feeling Seen, Feeling Free”: Combating stigma and creating culturally safe care for sex workers in Chicago
Authors: Singer Randi Beth , Johnson Amy K. , Crooks Natasha , Bruce Douglas , Wesp Linda , Karczmar Alexa , Mkandawire-Valhmu Lucy , Sherman Susan
Published: June 2021

Background

Previous studies have established that sex workers experience discrimination and stigma within healthcare settings, limiting their access and receipt of culturally safe care. These barriers impact sex workers’ ability and desire to routinely engage with the healthcare system. Community empowerment interventions that are culturally safe offer an effective strategy to improve access to services and health outcomes for sex workers.

Objectives

This project was designed to inform the development of community empowerment interventions for sex workers by understanding their self-management, health promotion, and harm reduction needs.

Methods

In-depth interviews (N = 21) were conducted with sex workers in Chicago. Transcripts of individual interviews were analyzed in Dedoose using rapid content analysis.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 32.7 years; 45% identified as White, 20% as Black, 15% as Latinx, and 20% as multiple races; 80% identified as Queer. A total of 52% of participants identified as cisgender women, 33% as transgender or gender fluid, 10% as cisgender men, and 5% declined to answer. Themes of self-management practices, stigmatizing and culturally unsafe experiences with healthcare providers, and the prohibitive cost of healthcare emerged as consistent barriers to routinely accessing healthcare. Despite identifying patient-centered care as a desired healthcare model, many participants did not report receiving care that was respectful or culturally responsive. Themes also included developing strategies to identify sex worker-safe care providers, creating false self-narratives and health histories in order to safely access care, and creating self-care routines that serve as alternatives to primary care.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate how patient-centered care for sex-workers in Chicago might include holistic wellness exercises, accessible pay scales for services, and destigmatizing healthcare praxis. Focus on culturally safe healthcare provision presents needs beyond individualized, or even community-level, interventions. Ongoing provider training and inbuilt, systemic responsivity to patient needs and contexts is crucial to patient-centered care.
SELECTIVE ANDROGEN RECEPTOR MODULATORS AS FUNCTION PROMOTING THERAPIES
Authors: BHASIN S.
Published: June 2021

Despite empiric evidence that androgens promote muscle growth, concerns remain about their safety, particularly their association with prostate hypertrophy, the development of male secondary sex characteristics in women, and their potential to accelerate the development of prostate cancer. These concerns led to the development of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs), a class of androgen receptor ligands that bind to androgen receptors in a tissue-selective manner to activate of androgenic signaling (1). SARMs are used for many indications including osteoporosis, anemia, male contraception, male hypogonadism, and wound healing. SARMs may be either steroidal or non-steroidal.
Antidepressant activity of Spathodea campanulata in mice and predictive affinity of spatheosides towards type A monoamine oxidase
Authors: Bajaj Jitendra , Dwivedi Jaya , Sahu Ram , Dave Vivek , Verma Kanika , Joshi Sushil , Sati Bhawana , Sharma Swapnil , Seidel Veronique , Mishra Abhay Prakash
Published: June 2021

The antidepressant activity of Spathodea campanulata flowers was evaluated in mice and in silico. When tested at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, the methanol extract of S. campanulata (MESC) showed dose-dependent antidepressant activity in the force swim test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), lithium chloride-induced twitches test and the open field test. In FST and TST, animals treated with MESC demonstrated a significant decrease in the immobility period compared to the control group. The lithium chloride-induced head twitches were significantly reduced following administration of MESC. The latter, at the dose of 400 mg/kg, also significantly reduced locomotor activity. Following administration of MESC, changes in the levels of serum corticosterone, and of norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylglycol (MHPG), 4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were measured in different brain regions using HPLC. The presence of spatheoside A (m/z 541) and spatheoside B (m/z 559) in MESC was detected using HPLC/ESI-MS. These two iridoids demonstrated a high predictive binding affinity for the active site of the type A monoamine oxidase (MAO-A) enzyme with scores of 99.40 and 93.54, respectively.  These data suggest that S. campanulata flowers warrants further investigation as a source of novel templates for antidepressive drugs.
Radiation-induced graft polymerization of elastin onto polyvinylpyrrolidone as a possible wound dressing
Authors: Del Prado-Audelo Marí­a Luisa , Gómez-Zaldivar Francisco J. , Pérez-Dí­az Mario , Sánchez-Sánchez Roberto , González-Torres Maykel , González-Del Carmen Manuel , Figueroa-González Gabriela , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Reyes-Hernández Octavio D. , Cortés Hernán , Leyva-Gómez Gerardo
Published: June 2021

The purpose of our study was to obtain new wound dressings in the form of hydrogels that promote wound healing taking advantage of the broad activities of elastin (ELT) in physiological processes. The hydrogel of ELT and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP; ELT–PVP) was obtained by cross-linking induced by gamma irradiation at a dose of 25 kGy. The physicochemical changes attributed to cross-linking were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy analysis with Fourier transform (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, we performed a rheological study to determine the possible changes in the fluidic macroscopic properties produced by the cross-linking method. Finally, we accomplished viability and proliferation analyses of human dermal fibroblasts in the presence of the hydrogel to evaluate its biological characteristics. The hydrogel exhibited a porous morphology, showing interconnected porous with an average pore size of 16 ± 8.42 µm. The analysis of FTIR, DSC, and TGA revealed changes in the chemical structure of the ELT–PVP hydrogel after the irradiation process. Also, the hydrogel exhibited a rheological behavior of a pseudoplastic and thixotropic fluid. The hydrogel was biocompatible, demonstrating high cell viability, whereas ELT presented low biocompatibility at high concentrations. In summary, the hydrogel obtained by gamma irradiation revealed the appropriate morphology to be applied as a wound dressing. Interestingly, the hydrogel exhibited a higher percentage of cell viability compared with ELT, suggesting that the cross-linking of ELT with PVP is a suitable strategy for biological applications of ELT without generating cellular damage.
Development of a xanthan gum film for the possible treatment of vaginal infections
Authors: Villar-Padilla Analizet , Del Prado-Audelo Marí­a Luisa , González-Torres Maykel , Giraldo-Gomez David M. , Caballero-Florán Isaac H. , González-Del Carmen Manuel , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Figueroa-González Gabriela , Reyes-Hernández Octavio D. , Cortés Hernán , Leyva-Gómez Gerardo
Published: June 2021

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection that affects 60% of women of reproductive age worldwide. It is mainly caused by the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis and is a factor that increases the probability of getting sexually transmitted diseases. We aimed to develop a new pharmaceutical form for the treatment of vaginal infections. We employed the solving-casting method to fabricate a polymeric film with Xanthan gum, a natural polymer produced by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris, and metronidazole, one of the most commonly used drugs for vaginal infections. In order to characterize the film, we measured pH, dose uniformity, dissolution profile, and the percentage of swelling. Moreover, we performed a thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The results demonstrated a pH suitable for vaginal application and uniform distribution of the drug in the film. Also, the formulation exhibited a high percentage of swelling and a slow release of the drug in a simulated vaginal fluid medium. All these attributes indicated that the manufactured film has ideal characteristics to be used and administered vaginally. It could be an excellent alternative to treat bacterial vaginosis and also improve user adherence.
Curcumin for parkinson´s disease: potential therapeutic effects, molecular mechanisms, and nanoformulations to enhance its efficacy
Authors: Cortés Hernán , Reyes-Hernández Octavio D. , Gonzalez-Torres Maykel , Vizcaino-Dorado Pablo A. , Del Prado-Audelo Maria Luisa , Alcalá-Alcalá Sergio , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Figueroa-González Gabriela , González-Del Carmen Manuel , Florán Benjamí­n , Leyva-Gómez Gerardo
Published: June 2021

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders worldwide. It is caused by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons from the substantia nigra pars compacta. This neuronal loss causes the dopamine deficiency that leads to a series of functional changes within the basal ganglia, producing motor control abnormalities. L-DOPA is considered the gold standard for PD treatment, and it may alleviate its clinical manifestations for some time. However, its prolonged administration produces tolerance and several severe side effects, including dyskinesias and gastrointestinal disorders. Thus, there is an urgent need to find effective medications, and current trends have proposed some natural products as emerging options for this purpose. Concerning this, curcumin represents a promising bioactive compound with high therapeutic potential. Diverse studies in cellular and animal models have suggested that curcumin could be employed for the treatment of PD. Therefore, the objective of this narrative mini-review is to present an overview of the possible therapeutic effects of curcumin and the subjacent molecular mechanisms. Moreover, we describe several possible nanocarrier-based approaches to improve the bioavailability of curcumin and enhance its biological activity.
Tocopherol contents and antioxidant activity in grape pomace after fermentation and alcohol distillation
Authors: Goloshvili Tamar , Akhalkatsi Maia , Badridze Gulnara , Kikvidze Zaal
Published: June 2021

The wine industry in Georgia produces vast amounts of grape pomace that is currently mostly wasted, while only a minor amount is used for distilling alcohol. The study was carried out on the grape pomace from the three most widely used grapevine sorts (Vitis vinifera var. Rkatsiteli, V. vinifera var. Saperavi, V. labrusca var. Isabella)  in Georgia, and quantities of tocopherols and antioxidants were evaluated. The antioxidant activity was assessed by diphenyl-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and measurement of visible light absorption at 515 nm, and tocopherol was measured by absorption at 470 nm via a spectrophotometer. The results indicated that the grape pomace contains considerable tocopherols and antioxidant activity. However, the antioxidant activity had slightly been decreased. These results suggest that grape pomace can be an economically attractive resource for the pharmaceutical and food industries. Utilization of grape pomace for producing pharmaceutical and cosmetic goods with tocopherol and antioxidants can solve two problems: it can recycle waste and develop new profitable businesses in biotechnology.
UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis and antibacterial activity of the Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen against Escherichia coli and other MDR bacteria
Authors: Freitas Thiago S. , Campina Fábia F. , Costa Maria S. , Rocha Janaí­na E. , Cruz Rafael P. , Pinheiro Jacqueline C. A. , Pereira-Júnior Francisco N. , Lima Micheline A. , Pires de Sá Maí­sa Freire Cartaxo , Teixeira Alexandre M.R. , Coutinho Henrique D.M.
Published: June 2021

With the spread of bacterial resistance against clinically used antibiotics, natural plant-derived products are being studied as new sources of antibacterial molecules. Manilkara zapota is a common plant species in the American continent that is used as a food source. Studies show the M. zapota extract is rich in phenolic substances that can serve as basic molecules for the pharmaceutical industry. An extract from fresh M. zapota leaves was produced and tested to identify the compounds present, as well as its direct antibacterial and clinical antibiotic modulatory activities. To analyze the results, a new statistical methodology based on the Shannon-Wiener index was tested, capable of correcting distortions in heterogeneous environments. The Hydroethanolic Extract of Manilkara zapota leaves (HEMzL) presented a wide variety of phenolic products, as well as tannins, in the UPLC analysis. The extract showed direct antibacterial activity against the standard Staphylococcus aureus strain, however, it either acted antagonistically when associated with the tested antibiotics, or it did not present statistical significance when compared to the control. This demonstrates a need to be cautious when associating natural products with antibiotics for clinical use, as a hindrance to infectious treatments may occur. As for the statistical analysis mechanism tested, this proved to be effective, reducing false negatives at low antibiotic concentrations and false positives at high concentrations in the microdilution plate.
Catechins, theaflavins and ginger freeze-dried extract based functional drink significantly mitigate the hepatic, diabetic and lipid abnormalities in rat model
Authors: Kashif Muhammad , Imran Ali , Saeed Farhan , Chatha Shahzad Ali Shahid , Arshad Muhammad Umair
Published: June 2021

The Current study was planned to explore the therapeutic potential of green tea, black tea and ginger based nutraceuticals (catechins, theaflavins and ginger freeze dried extract) against obesity, diabetes and renal malfunctioning. Bioevaluation study was carried out by involving 250 male Sprague Dawley rats. Accordingly, three types of studies were conducted on the basis of different diets i.e. study I (Hyperglycemic rats), study II (obese rats), study III (liver malfunctional rats) each study comprised of five groups of rats ten in each (Sample size according to power analysis) were provided the five types of drinks i.e. control, theaflavin enriched, catechins enriched, ginger extract supplemented and combination of catechins, theaflavins and ginger extract were given to the representative groups. Results showed that the body weight of rats effected significantly with functional drinks in all studies. However, catechin enriched drink (T1) resulted maximum reduction in weight during the entire study. Similarly, T2 exerted maximum decline in cholesterol level during study I, II and III by 11.03 & 10.63, 7.62 & 8.05 and 5.99 & 6.01% whereas LDL by 14.25 & 15.10, 10.45 & 12.10 and 7.25 & 8.01%, respectively (trial 1 & 2). The attenuation in serum glucose and enhancement in insulin level of rats are the indicators for the positive impact of black tea functional drinks. In this context, Catechins+theaflavins+GFD enriched drink (T4) Showed better performance than rest and caused 8.82 & 9.77, 11.03 & 12.23 and 5.83 & 5.96% reduction in glucose. Moreover, the T4 significantly improved the liver and antioxidant enzymes. Accordingly, T4 was proved effective for glutathione enhancement whilst T2 alleviated TBARS efficiently during the investigation. The normal ranges of renal function tests and hematological aspects proved the safety of resultant drinks. From the current exploration, it is concluded that drinks supplemented with theaflavin and catechins & GFD are effectual to mitigate lifestyle related malfunctioning.
Activity of ethanolic extract of Eucalyptus globulus leaves against multi drug resistant poultry pathogens in broiler chicks
Authors: Ullah Assad , Anjum Aftab Ahmad , Rabbani Masood , Ijaz Muhammad , Nawaz Muhammad , Ashraf Muhammad , Ali Asad , Rashid Anjum , Najeeb Imran , Hussain Ahmad
Published: June 2021

The present study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of E. globulus leaves in broiler chicks. Total (n=255) day-old chicks were segregated into five groups i.e. Pathogenic E. coli, S. pullorum, S. gallinarum and C. perfringens type A and control negative group. Each bacterial challenged (1x 107 CFU) group was divided into control positive, antibiotic, probiotic and E. globulus group. Experimental birds were exposed to E. coli, S. pullorum, S. gallinarum and C. perfringens type A at different ages. At 35th day of experiment the log reduction for each group was determined. The highest log reduction in E. coli and C. perfringens Type A colonies count were found in E. globulus (3.26) (2.33) treated group followed by antibiotic (2.85) (1.59) and probiotic (2.84) (1.50) respectively. The log reduction in S. pullorum colonies count was highest in E. globulus (2.50) followed by probiotic (2.24) and antibiotic (2.16). The S. gallinarum colonies count log reduction was found highest for antibiotic (2.84) followed by probiotic (2.48) and E. globulus group. The results of in-vivo experiment revealed that ethanolic extract of E. globulus has antibacterial activity and it can be used as a replacement to low level of antibiotics added in poultry feed.
Phytochemical composition and In-vitro activity of ethanolic extract of Eucalyptus globulus leaves against multidrug resistant poultry pathogens
Authors: Ullah Assad , Anjum Aftab Ahmad , Rabbani Masood , Nawaz Muhammad , Ashraf Muhammad , Ijaz Muhammad , Ali Asad , Rashid Anjum , Najeeb Imran , Pervez Asim
Published: June 2021

Aim of the present study was to determine the In-vitro antibacterial activity of ethanolic extract of E. globulus leaves against common multidrug resistant poultry pathogens. Phytochemical analysis through HPLC revealed that kaempeferol (7.315min) followed by querecetin (6.655min) and myrecetin (3.655min). Percent area of kaempeferol (6826.88%) was highest, followed by myrecetin (5516.22%) and querecetin (163.748%). Phytochemical investigation of ethanolic extract of E. globulus leaves through GCMS showed highest retention time (min) Î±-pinene (20.43) and Î±-terpineol (20.15) accompanied by spathulenol (11.97), piperitone (11.04). The ethanolic extracts of E. globulus leaves showed a highest zone of inhibition against S. pullorum SP6; 20.64± 2.08, E. coli SE 12; 19.75± 2.83, C. perfringens type A (CPM38-01); 19.46± 2.02. The highest level of MIC of E. globulus noted were against S. gallinarum S22; 133.37±53.294, S. gallinarum S1; 130.20±45.10, S. gallinarum S4; 129.47±24.182, S. gallinarum S3; 126.83±72.392. In conclusion, the study confirmed that the ethanolic extract of E. globulus is composed of active ingredients having antibacterial activity and can be referred as an alternate to antibiotics.
Evaluation of antidiabetic, antioxidant, and cytotoxic potential of maize (zea mays l.) husk leaf extracts
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Nawaz Sadia , Ilyas Iqra , Rehman Muhammad Misbah ur , Qadir Rahman , Mehmood Tahir , Afzal Muhammad , Abdul Rehman Natasha , Ali Abid
Published: June 2021

In current study, Maize (Zea mays L.) husk leave extracts were appraised for biological activities such as cytotoxicity, antidiabetic, antioxidant and antimicrobial. Maceration was performed to collect various fractions of husk leave extracts using a pool of solvents i.e., n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol and methanol. Antioxidant potential was measured by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, reducing power and linoleic acid oxidation assay, using butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) as a positive control. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found to be 18.47-425.11 mg/100 g GAE and 5.83-16.72 mg/100 g CE, respectively. The DPPH scavenging assay was exhibited in the range of 76.36 to 88.53%. The percentage inhibition in linoleic acid oxidation was found from 10.16 to 79.51%. Significant antimicrobial activity was demonstrated by husk leaf extracts against bacterial strains and fungal strains using disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Amylase alpha assay was employed to analyze the antidiabetic activity which ranged between 9.52-24.81%. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by % age lysis (0.35-9.54%), while thrombolytic activity ranged between 7.67 to 31.27%. The results presented in this study revealed that maize (Zea mays L.) husk leaf extracts can be a valuable source of biologically active compounds and may be consumed as a source of potent herbal medicine in pharmaceuticals.
Evaluation of hepatoprotective effects of crude methanolic extract of Datura metel L. in mice
Authors: Alam Waqas , Khan Haroon , Khan Sajjad Ali , Ali Niaz , Sharif Naveed , Ghafar Rukhsana , Nazir Sana , Daglia Maria
Published: June 2021

Datura metel has been recommended in several human disorders including a remedy for liver toxicity. The current study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of methanolic extract of D. metel in animal model. Acute toxicity of methanolic crude extract of Datura metel (MEDM) was studied in animals in various doses 500-2000 mg/kg. Mice of either sex were divided into groups (n=6). One group received normal saline intraperitonially as negative control, while other gentamicin 100mg/kg for 8 days as positive control. 3rd group received 50mg/kg silymarin as standard, 4th group received 100mg/kg of MEDM, 5th group received 200mg/kg MEDM while 6th group received 300mg/kg MEDM and gentamicin 100mg/kg for 8 days. The blood samples were collected on 9th day and the animals were then dissected and the liver of all the animals were isolated. MEDM was found safe in acute toxicity test at various doses up to 2000 mg/kg. The levels of serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase were elevated significantly with gentamicin treatment which significantly down-regulated by MEDM (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg) in a dose dependent manner.. The histological examination showed that the MEDM has markedly treated the inflammatory infiltrate, fatty changes and congested blood vessels which were induced by gentamicin.  The findings of our study thus proved the absolute of MEDM in acute toxicity test; followed by significant hepatoprotective effect in gentamicin induced hepatotoxic mice.
Natural compounds as antiatherogenic agents
Authors: Saqib Uzma , Khan Masood A. , Alagumuthu Manikandan , Parihar Suraj P. , Baig Mirza S.
Published: June 2021

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a widespread pathological coronary heart disease (CHD), which, along with other cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), is the primary cause of global mortality. It is initiated by the accumulation of cholesterol-laden macrophages in the artery wall, thereby forming the foam-cells, the hallmark of AS. Increased influx of oxidized LDL and decreased efflux of free cholesterol from macrophages constitute major factors that mediate the progression of AS. Natural compounds treatment and prevention of AS being an effective approach for a long time. Currently, as interests in medicinally important natural products increased that including medicinal herbs, numerous studies on natural compounds effective forAS have been reported. In the current review, we shed light on the available plant-based natural compounds as AS modulators with underlying mechanisms that may lead to potential therapeutic implications.
LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS characterization of phenolic compounds from Prosopis farcta (Banks & Sol.) J.F.Macbr. and their potential antioxidant activities
Authors: Sharifi-Rad Javad , Zhong Jianshu , Ayatollahi Seyed Abdulmajid , Kobarfard Farzad , Faizi Mehrdad , Khosravi-Dehaghi Nafiseh , Suleria Hafiz A.R.
Published: June 2021

Prosopis farcta (Banks & Sol.) J.F.Macbr. is an emerging medicinal plant containing a diverse array of phytochemicals, including protein, fat, carbohydrate, fibre, alkaloids, fatty acids, glycosides, and polyphenols, with strong antioxidant potential. However, the screening and characterization of phenolic compounds in P. farcta is limited. This study is conducted to determine the polyphenol contents and their antioxidant activity in P. farcta leaves samples via liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array (HPLC-PDA). Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total tannins content (TTC) were determined for polyphenol estimation. The antioxidant properties were measured by total antioxidant capacity (TAC), 2,2'-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and 2,2"²-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS). LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS was used to identify and characterize 47 phenolic compounds, which mainly included phenolic acids (13), flavonoids (28), other polyphenols (4), lignans (1), and stilbenes (1). According to HPLC-PDA quantification, chlorogenic acid (9.78 ± 2.15 mg/g dw) was the most abundant phenolic acid, while the main flavonoids included catechin (12.73 ± 1.29 mg/g dw) and kaempferol (7.93 ± 1.47 mg/g dw). The study demonstrated the significance of P. farcta as a rich source of phenolic compounds with antioxidant capacity that can be widely used in food, beverage, feed, and pharmaceutical applications.
LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS characterization of phenolic compounds from Pyracantha coccinea M.Roem. and their antioxidant capacity
Authors: Sharifi-Rad Javad , Song Shengnan , Ali Akhtar , Subbiah Vigasini , Taheri Yasaman , Suleria Hafiz A.R.
Published: June 2021

Pyracantha coccinea M.Roem. is considered as an important medicinal plant contributing remarkably to health and medicinal benefits. This is attributed to the presence of abundant polyphenols with powerful antioxidant properties. However, little research has been studied on the comprehensive identification and characterization of the phenolic compounds in areal parts of P. coccinea.  This study aimed to investigate, characterize, and quantify the phenolic profiles of P. coccinea through liquid chromatography electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array (HPLC-PDA. Further, it showed a significantly higher value in total phenolic content (TPC) than that of total flavonoids (TFC) and tannins (TTC). As for antioxidant capacities, P. coccinea presented the highest activity in ABTS (7.12 ± 0.25 mg AAE/g dw) compared with DPPH, FRAP, and TAC assays. The LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS analysis detected 28 phenolic compounds, including phenolic acids (12), flavonoids (13), other polyphenols (2), and lignans (1) in P. coccinea samples. The results from HPLC–PDA indicated the chlorogenic acid (11.49 ± 1.89 mg/g) was the most abundant phenolic acid, while kaempferol (14.67 ± 2.17 mg/g) was the predominant flavonoid in P. coccinea. This research confirms the benefits of the P. coccinea plant as a potential source of natural antioxidants for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Antimicrobial and antibiofilm potential of Curcuma longa Linn. Rhizome extract against biofilm producing Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates
Authors: Suwal Newton , Subba Romit Kumar , Paudyal Prem , Khanal Dharma Prasad , Panthi Mamata , Suwal Neelam , Nassan Mohamed A. , Alqarni Mohammed , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Koirala Niranjan
Published: June 2021

More than 65% of all human bacterial infection are associated with biofilm. Bacteria in such biofilms are 10 to 1000-fold more resistant to antibiotics than free living bacteria cells. Organisms such as S. aureus and P. aeruginosa are responsible for a significant number of biofilm related infections. In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity of C. longa L. rhizome extract against biofilm producing S. aureus and P. aeruginosa isolates. The results of MIC and MBC demonstrated promising antibacterial activity of the rhizome extract. TLC and column chromatography detected various curcuminoids while phytochemical analysis also reveals presence of number of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, etc. Micro titer plate assay indicated significant inhibition of biofilm formation in clinical isolates treated with turmeric extract. Thus, on basis of our results turmeric extracts can be considered as natural antibiofilm and antibacterial agent.
Evaluation of antihyperglycemic activity of plants in northeast mexico
Authors: Adame-Miranda Sara J. , Granados-Guzmán Graciela , Silva-Mares David A. , Acevedo-Fernández Juan José , Waksman-Minsky Noemí­ , Salazar-Aranda Ricardo
Published: June 2021

iabetes mellitus is one of the most common non-contagious diseases. In 2017, The International Diabetes Federation reported that around 425 million people suffer from diabetes worldwide. Medications used for the treatment of diabetes lead to unwanted side effects, and thus, new safe drugs are necessary. Some natural plant-based products exhibit anti hyperglycemic activity and low toxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antihyperglycemic activity (using both in vitro and in vivo models) as well as cytotoxicity of the extracts obtained from various plants. Nine extracts from a total of eight plant species were subjected to in vitro Î±-amylase and Î±-glucosidase inhibition assays. Subsequently, they were assessed through the ex vivo everted sac assay, and finally, the in vivo antihyperglycemic activity was evaluated. The extracts obtained from Ceanothus coeruleus, Chrysactinia mexicana and Zanthoxylum fagara inhibited the activities of Î±-amylase and Î±-glucosidase in the in vitro assays. Ethyl acetate and hydroalcoholic extracts from Jatropha dioica, hydroalcoholic extract from Salvia ballotaeflora and Chrysactinia mexicana, as well as methanolic extract from Ricinus communis and Zanthoxylum fagara significantly reduced the glucose uptake in the ex vivo everted intestinal sac test. All the eight extracts showed antihyperglycemic effect through the in vivo model of the Glucose Tolerance Test, using starch as the carbohydrate source.  The antihyperglycemic effect of the extracts could be mediated through the inhibition of digestive enzymes and/or the absorption of glucose through the intestine. However, the mechanism of action for the hydroalcoholic extract of Salvia texana and the methanolic extract of Turnera diffusa, which showed a strong in vivo antihyperglycemic effect, is unclear.