bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communication 2.0: Language features of correspondence in the messenger of German-speaking youth of Switzerland
Authors:   Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia, Kopchuk Liubov’ B. , Andreeva Valeriia A. ,   Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia
Published: January 2023

The article presents the results of a study of messages from WhatsApp messenger, included in the corpus of the project of Swiss linguists What’s up, Switzerland?, to identify the factors of peculiarity and linguistic features of communication of young people in Switzerland. The focus is on the main factors that determine the features of communication of young users, namely, the linguistic situation of dialect-literary diglossia in German-speaking Switzerland, the reflection on writing of the features of oral youth communication, the influence of Web 2.0 technologies. The analysis of authentic material made it possible to establish that the daily written communication of young people is carried out mainly in dialect, which corresponds to its desire for informal and irregular communication. Along with dialect Swiss youth have in written communication their arsenal of language tools and techniques for the implementa tion of specifically youth strategies and tactics. When communicating in the messenger, young German-Swiss use a variety of techniques of playing with language and means of delimitation and alienation from the usual, normative. The game with alien linguistic means: the German literary standard, English, ethnolects are most often implemented when communicating in the messenger on the principle of code-switching or mixing different language forms. Impor tant results include the numerous facts of the use of new opportunities and means of digital communication 2.0 identified in the corpus, which is found at the phonetic-phonological, graphic, lexical-semantic, morphosyntactic, and pragmatic levels and persuasively demon strates the ever-increasing influence of the media environment.
Mimesis as a Universal Principle of the Form Making
Authors:   Scientific Research Institute of Theory and History of Architecture and Urban Planning, Branch of the Central Institute for Research and Design of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services of the Russian Federation, Bembel Irina O.
Published: January 2023

The stylistic method of revealing regularities, formed by the 19th century and dominating up until recently, proves to be ever less relevant to architectural and artistic processes of the Contemporary (Newest) times. To systemize the entire historical experience of architecture as a whole, more profound generalizations are required. An essential prerequisite for such generalizations appears to be the philosophical context of the paradigm shift: tradition — modernity — postmodernity. Without a clear understanding of all the differences between these paradigms, it is impossible to talk about the processes taking place in the architecture of the Contemporary times. The fundamental rejection of semantic binary oppositions (good/bad, beautiful/ugly, high/low, sacred/secular, etc.), typical for postmodernism, has entailed the issue of criteria for the value of art works, and consequently the criteria for art at large. The aim of this work is to demonstrate that the mimetic principle underlies the totality of the valuable qualities inherent in traditional architecture. And that, on the contrary, a gradual departure and subsequent factual rejection of this principle became one of the main reasons for both the emergence of the modern architecture phenomenon and its present crisis. The panoramic, holistic view of architectural development combined with the philosophical context of paradigmatic shift, allows not only to see the logic in the tortuous paths of the form making, but also gives the basis to build a system of universal criteria for architectural analysis.
Written and Pictorial Sources on the Architecture of Persia and Central Asia during the Era of Timur’s and Timurids’ Rule
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Morozova Anna V. , Daroudi Aysan ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: January 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the most valuable source at the culture and architecture of Persia and Central Asia during the reign of Timur (late 14th — early 15th centuries) — the diary of the Spanish ambassador to the court of Timur. At this stage in the development of researching on the Persian and Central Asian architecture of the Timurid period, along with the problem of “analysis” of monuments and artistic style, the problem of “synthesis” of image of these architecture is urgent. The authors of this article propose a methodology for restoring the general impression of this architecture, which can serve as a basis for the process of “synthesis”, based on the study of the contemporary written source of the early 15th century — the diary of the Spanish grandee Ruy Gonzalez de Clavijo, who was part of the Spanish embassy, sent by the Castilian king Enrice III to the court of Timur at 1403–1406. Being an educated man and receptive to the new, Clavijo was able to isolate the characteristic features of the worldview of a man of the East, primarily an oriental despot, and the associated features of the art of the East. He and his colleagues in the embassy drew attention to the cunning, treachery, ingenuity, secrecy of the eastern rulers. The Spaniards were struck by the luxury, power and wealth of Timur’s state, which at that time was at the zenith of glory. The Spaniards, accustomed to the stability of architectural images in their native Spain, were amazed at the variability of the artistic images of the East. They drew attention to the love of the representatives of the peoples of the East for free draperies, giving themselves to the will of the wind, in the temporary architecture and in festive women’s clothes, that by their nature were well consistent with the decoration of architectural buildings. The Spanish envoys revealed that subservient to the first and most faithful fresh impression, tenaciously grasping the main difference between the architecture of Timur’s state and contemporary European architecture. This difference consisted in the desire to create an image that is changing, diverse, fluid, mobile, not instantly solved and full of mystery, but at the same time striking the imagination with its luxury and wealth and according to the understanding of their masters, customers and spectators. The conclusion about the specifics of Timurid architecture, made on the basis of a study of the diary of the Spanish ambassador, is supported by the authors of the article turning to the analysis of written and pictorial sources created by representatives of the studied culture itself.
Did the Greeks have a worldview? A comparative study of worldview’s genealogy
Authors:   Institute of Philosophy of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lvov Alexander A.
Published: January 2023

The paper scrutinizes a classic passage from Heidegger, in which he argues that Weltanschauung is predominantly a Modern concept and that there was nothing similar in Antiquity. Using a comparative method, I try to demonstrate that it is possible to reconstruct a kind of genealogy of the concept of worldview and to show clues as to its phenomena in Hellenic culture and philosophy and in Early Modern thought. Being not just a linguistic phenomenon, worldview could be analyzed as a metaconcept, articulated in non-Modern contexts and recognized as a “worldview” in terms of Modern philosophy. Considering the ancient Greek notion of αἵρεσις, I show its principle aspects in the sense of “philosophical school”. I hold that it is possible to parallel it with the term Weltanschauung, coined in the German philosophical tradition and possessing its own epistemological features. To prove my argument, I refer to the ideas of Ancient Greek and Hellenic thinkers as well as the most eminent supporters and critics of the concept of Weltanschauung in Modern (primarily German) philosophies. In Conclusions I summarize the main traits I consider commensurate with those of αἵρεσις, which are: 1. Emergence in “turning points” of pivotal historical periods; 2. Articulation of the idea of wholeness and coherence of the Universe (the World); 3. One’s free-will choice to support a concrete doctrine or point of view to the Universe in connection with its comprehension and one’s moral principles.
Expertise as a form of development of science: Fundamental vs applied
Authors:   Institute for Logic, Cognitive Science and Development of Personality, Pruzhinin Boris I. ,   Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences,, Vetrov Vladimir A. ,   Institute for Logic, Cognitive Science and Development of Personality,   State Academic University for the Humanities
Published: January 2023

The article discusses the epistemological functions of expertise in modern science and substantiates the thesis that the emergence of expert knowledge is associated with the transformations of science (its technization, digitalization and application) and the anthropological crisis of the 20th–21st centuries. The authors believe that due to expert assessments, the target settings that are present in specific scientific research programs are explicated — both cognitive ones and focused primarily on solving various kinds of socially significant practical problems. Thus, the examination, in fact, opens up opportunities for clarifying the most effective ratio of fundamental and applied research settings in a particular cognitive activity. The authors demonstrate that expert activity allows scientists to consciously (with appeals to the semantic content of specific research projects) and, thus, more adequately (taking into account applied problems) assess the epistemological prospects of certain areas of research and thereby contribute to the expansion of the scope of scientific knowledge, development science as a cultural and historical phenomenon. To concretize the reasoning, the authors focus on how the implementation of the cognitive functions of expertise in science takes place and appeal to the legal precedent (the Kass vs. Kass process), which has become one of the models for resolving disputes in the field of biomedical research of objects with an unstable subject, ethical and legal status (cryopreserved embryos). Particular attention is paid to the fundamental predictive functions of expert knowledge, which has dignity, i. e. taking into account socio-political and existential-humanitarian restrictions, on the one hand, and contributing to the expansion of the scientific horizon, on the other.
What kind of expert is valuable for science? (On the issue of typological characteristics of expert knowledge)
Authors:   Institute for Logic, Cognitive Science and Development of Personality, Shchedrina Irina O. ,   HSE University, Zhuravel Evgeny P. ,   Institute for Logic, Cognitive Science and Development of Personality,   State Academic University for the Humanities
Published: January 2023

The article presents the results of an epistemological study of expertise, taking into account the typologies of this cognitive and social phenomenon that exist today in the world and domestic philosophical and methodological community. The authors reveal its typological characteristics, relying on the phenomenological approach to social and humanitarian subject formations. This approach shows that expertise always involves two levels of assessment: fundamental and applied. At the applied level, the expert solves a very specific problem, in accordance with the goals of the customer, at the fundamental (coexisting with the applied) level, he tries to integrate the result into the expanding knowledge about the world and humanity. Any expertise is subject to an external, social, in its essence, request, and the emphasis on applied knowledge is focused on the implementation of this request in an expert opinion, i. e. fixes the boundaries of the request implementation. As an alternative to this approach, there is an appeal in the course of an expert assessment to the fundamental cognitive attitudes that are present in its basis (orienting the expert analysis to the expansion of the study). Such appeals, among other things, increase the degree of objectivity of expert assessments due to their fundamental intentionality and intersubjective verifiability. And the reflexive hermeneutic competence of an expert helps to overcome cognitive gaps that arise in the process of interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research. The phenomenological approach allows us to consider expertise as a cultural and historical phenomenon, and the expert not just as an element of the scientific system, but as a well-educated professional who recognizes himself as a part of history and culture.
Evolving images of intimacy and sexuality
Authors:   University of Wroclaw, Błocian Ilona
Published: January 2023

Images of intimacy and human sexuality have evolved in our culture. They have long been recognized for their great importance to the individual, community and culture. They were recognized better by studying their images, practices and symbols in other cultures, as well as changes in European culture itself and social change processes. The concepts of the turn of the century and the 20th century discovery of the meaning of these spheres of human life (Freud, Foucault) were also of considerable importance. Images have evolved, knowledge and tolerance seemed to increase (Giddens), but their changes have not ceased to occur and this is assessed in a variety of ways today; there is no definitive assessment. They strongly penetrate the iconosphere of our culture, but they did not automatically caused growth of the consciousness of the importance of fusing them with the differing emotional sphere; it seems, therefore, in some theoretical approaches that it is the thing that lacks most in contemporary imagery. This article analyzes the development of image of intimacy and sexuality in European culture from Freud to the present day. The transformation of the perception of these images is justified by the trends of social development associated with the development of new communication channels; the cosmetic medicine industry based on the self-perception of a person in society. And all this is happening under the pressure of the digital society on the sphere of communications, which massively broadcasts stereotypes through new media that form both individual and collective culture.
Analysis of the effects of climate change on the gyre in Lake Biwa, Japan
Authors: Koue Jinichi , Shimadera Hikari , Matsuo Tomohito , Kondo Akira
Published: January 2023

The currents of gyre (circulation) flow play an important role in the transportation and mixing of dissolved or suspended nutrients and chemical substances. In recent years, climate change has affected the flow field in Lake Biwa. However, how much climate change can influence the flow field has not been clarified enough yet. In the present study, using a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model, we investigated the effect of changes in air temperature, wind speed, and precipitation on the change of the flow field in Lake Biwa. For sensitivity analysis, numerical simulations were performed for a baseline case using realistic meteorological data from 2007 to 2012, as well as hypothetical cases using meteorological data. The analysis revealed that the changes in air temperature and precipitation changed stratification and vorticity in the surface layer in each season. The strength of the stratification affected the gyre strength in the surface layer. The change in wind speed, on the other hand, changed the wind stress acting on the lake's surface, influencing the strength of gyre significantly. Increased wind speed lengthened the radius of the gyre in Lake Biwa, while decreased wind speed made it weaker above and below the thermocline.
Numerical investigation of silted-up dam-break flow with different silted-up sediment heights
Authors: Gu Zhenghua , Wang Tinghui , Meng Wenkang , Yu Ching-hao , An Ruidong
Published: January 2023

The silted-up sediment in the reservoir may have a significant influence on the propagation of dam-break flows. In this paper, a three-dimensional numerical simulation of the silted-up dam-break flow is carried out. In this paper, simulations of three-dimensional silted-up dam-break flow are carried out. A kind of Eulerian–Eulerian two-fluid model (TFM), coupled level set and volume of fluid (CLSVOF) methods, is presented. In order to calculate the motions of the air–water interface and the sediment simultaneously, kinetic particle theory (KPT) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) are combined. The rheology-based constitutive equations of sediment are also considered to simulate scouring and deposition. In addition, a partial-slip boundary condition (BC) for the velocity of the sediment phase at stationary walls is implemented. The simulation results of the benchmark case demonstrate that the proposed model can effectively simulate the silted-up dam-break flow while taking into account multi-interface capturing problems. Subsequently, the simulations of the silted-up dam-break flow over dry are investigated numerically in a three-dimensional long channel. The simulated results reveal that, in the dam-break flows, the silted-up sediment height has a significant influence on wave propagation, dynamic pressure loads, sediment transport, and sediment deposition.
Review on the degradation of chlorinated hydrocarbons by persulfate activated with zero-valent iron-based materials
Authors: Chen Zhiguo , Cao Wenqing , Bai He , Zhang Rong , Liu Yiyun , Li Yan , Song Jingpeng , Liu Juncheng , Ren Gengbo
Published: January 2023

Chlorinated hydrocarbons (CHCs) are often used in industrial processes, and they have been found in groundwater with increasing frequency in recent years. Several typical CHCs, including trichloroethylene (TCE), 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA), carbon tetrachloride (CT), etc., have strong cytotoxicity and carcinogenicity, posing a serious threat to human health and ecological environment. Advanced persulfate (PS) oxidation technology based on nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) has become a research hotspot for CHCs degradation in recent years. However, nZVI is easily oxidized to form the surface passivation layer and prone to aggregation in practical application, which significantly reduces the activation efficiency of PS. In order to solve this problem, various nZVI modification solutions have been proposed. This review systematically summarizes four commonly used modification methods of nZVI, and the theoretical mechanisms of PS activated by primitive and modified nZVI. Besides, the influencing factors in the engineering application process are discussed. In addition, the controversial views on which of the two (SO4·- and ·OH) is dominant in the nZVI/PS system are summarized. Generally, SO4·- predominates in acidic conditions while ·OH prefers neutral and alkaline environments. Finally, challenges and prospects for practical application of CHCs removal by nZVI-based materials activating PS are also analyzed.
Novel STAT3 Inhibitor Exerts Anti-breast Cancer Effects Both In vitro and In vivo
Authors: Liu Zhe , Sun Yiming , Yu Meiling , Huang Yingying , Ma Liang , Kong Lingti
Published: January 2023

Background:

Breast cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors. Signal transduction
and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) have been demonstrated to play important roles in breast cancer.
However, no direct inhibitor of STAT3 has been approved by the FDA for clinical use.

Objective:

LL1 is a newly designed STAT3 inhibitor that we identified. In this study, we investigated the
cytotoxic effect of LL1 on breast cancer cells and its potential mechanisms.

Methods:

Colony formation and CCK-8 assay were used to detect the anti-proliferation of LL1. Flow
cytometry was used to evaluate mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis in breast cancer cells
following the treatment of LL1. The expression of proteins was analyzed using western blot, and the invasion
and migration of cells were analyzed by wound healing assay and transwell assay. The xenograft
model was used to evaluate the anti-cancer effect of LL1 in vivo.

Results:

LL1 selectively inhibited the expression of p-STAT3, but had no obvious effect on total STAT3.
LL1 exhibited great potential in suppressing the proliferation of breast cancer in vitro. Moreover, LL1
induces apoptosis and the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential in breast cancer cells. LL1 can
also inhibit the invasion and migration of breast cancer cells. These cell biology changes may be induced
via the regulation of Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved-caspase3, Survivn, Mmp-2, Mmp-9, N-cadherin, E-cadherin,
vimentin, c-myc and cyclin D1 by LL1. In addition, LL1 exhibited great antitumor activity in vivo.

Conclusion:

Our study suggested that LL1 can be considered a promising candidate for the treatment of
breast cancer.
Evolution of Guideline Recommendations on Insulin Therapy in Type 2
Diabetes Mellitus Over the Last Two Decades: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chadha Manoj , Jain Sunil M. , Chawla Rajeev , Dharmalingam Mala , Chaudhury Tirthankar , Talwalkar P.G. , Tripathi Sudhir , Singh S.K. , Gutch Manish , Dasgupta Arundhati
Published: January 2023

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus has been increasing worldwide. As the therapeutic
options for type 2 diabetes mellitus have evolved over the last 2 decades, national and global
guidelines related to type 2 diabetes mellitus pharmacotherapy issued by various organizations
have tended to vary in their recommendations. This narrative review aimed to analyze the key recommendations
by major global and national guidelines on the initiation of insulin therapy in patients
with type 2 diabetes mellitus over the last 20 years. Strategies for insulin therapy for titration
and intensification were also assessed. All guidelines recommend initiation of insulin (basal/
premixed/other formulations) when glycemic targets are not achieved despite lifestyle measures
and oral antidiabetic drugs. In the recent decade, early initiation of insulin has been recommended
when the glycated hemoglobin levels are >10% or blood glucose levels are ≥300 mg/dL (16.7
mmol/L). Initiation is recommended at a dose of 10 units or 0.1-0.2 U/kg. Titration is advised to
achieve the optimal dosage, while intensification is recommended when glycemic targets are not
achieved despite titrating to an acceptable level. Glucose monitoring at periodic intervals is recommended
for adequate glycemic control. The guidelines further suggest that the choice of insulin
should be individualized, considering the clinical status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
The physicians as well as patients should be a part of the decisions made regarding the therapeutic
choice of regimen, preparation, and delivery device.
Evaluation of the Antioxidant Effects of Berberine against Sodium Nitriteinduced
Oxidative Injury in the Rat Liver
Authors: Akhzari Morteza , Jalili Sajad , Rashno Sajad , Akmali Masoumeh , Foruozandeh Hossein , Barazesh Mahdi
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

Berberine is a plant derived alkaloid present in many plants that may has
ameliorating potential influences against inflammatory and oxidative conditions. The current study
aimed to evaluate the possible protective activity of berberine and investigate its probable mechanisms
against sodium nitrite toxicity in the liver.

Methods:

Forty male rats were divided into five groups. Group one, as the control group, received
normal saline, group two received berberine (100 mg.kg-1), and group three received sodium nitrite
(80 mg.kg-1). Groups four and five received berberine in doses of 50 and 100 mg.kg-1, respectively,
and sodium nitrite (80 mg.kg-1) was given orally. All the doses were orally administrated for two
months. Then, at the end of the 60th day, the animals were sacrificed, and the liver homogenate was
prepared. For evaluating the oxidative injury the levels of albumin (ALB) and aspartate transaminase
(AST) in the serum and oxidative stress parameters in the liver were analyzed.

Results:

Treatment of rats with sodium nitrite considerably increased the levels of serum AST and
liver superoxide anion and significantly reduced the levels of serum ALB, hepatic superoxide dismutase
(SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and catalase (CAT) activity in the liver tissue.
Berberine treatment could ameliorate all these parameters dose dependently. Berberine at a dose of
100 mg.kg-1 had the best impact and reached the values of oxidative stress parameters to the normal
level.

conclusion:

Our results demonstrated that berberine in a dose-dependent manner offered protection
against sodium nitrite-induced oxidative injury in liver, which possibly reflects the antioxidant
abilities of this alkaloid.
Siah2 Inhibitor and the Metabolic Antagonist Oxamate Retard Colon
Cancer Progression and Downregulate PD1 Expression
Authors: Zakaria Sherin , Elsebaey Samar , Allam Shady , Abdo Walied , El-Sisi Alaa
Published: January 2023

Background:

Solid tumors such as colon cancer are characterized by rapid and sustained
cell proliferation, which ultimately results in hypoxia, induction of hypoxia-inducible factor-
1α (HIF-1α), and activation of glycolysis to promote tumor survival and immune evasion. We
hypothesized that a combinatorial approach of menadione (MEN) as an indirect HIF-1α inhibitor
and sodium oxamate (OX) as a glycolysis inhibitor may be a promising treatment strategy for colon
cancer.

Objectives:

We investigated the potential efficacy of this combination for promoting an antitumor
immune response and suppressing tumor growth in a rat model of colon cancer.

Methods:

Colon cancer was induced by once-weekly subcutaneous injection of 20 mg/kg dimethylhydrazine
(DMH) for 16 weeks. Control rats received the vehicle and then no further treatment
(negative control) or MEN plus OX for 4 weeks (drug control). Dimethylhydrazine-treated rats
were then randomly allocated to four groups: DMH alone group and other groups treated with
MEN, OX, and a combination of (MEN and OX) for 4 weeks. Serum samples were assayed for
the tumor marker carbohydrate antigen (CA19.9), while expression levels of HIF-1α, caspase-3,
PHD3, LDH, and PD1 were evaluated in colon tissue samples by immunoassay and qRT-PCR.
Additionally, Ki-67 and Siah2 expression levels were examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results:

The combination of MEN plus OX demonstrated a greater inhibitory effect on the expression
levels of HIF-1α, Siah2, LDH, Ki-67, and PD1, and greater enhancement of caspase-3
and PHD3 expression in colon cancer tissues than either drug alone.

Conclusion:

Simultaneous targeting of hypoxia and glycolysis pathways by a combination of
MEN and OX could be a promising therapy for inhibiting colon cancer cell growth and promoting
antitumor immunity. Few recent patents are also reviewed in this article.
Synthetic Methodologies and SAR of Quinazoline Derivatives as PI3K Inhibitors
Authors: Raj Aditya , Kumar Adarsh , Singh Ankit Kumar , Singh Harshwardhan , Thareja Suresh , Kumar Pradeep
Published: January 2023

PI3K is an important anticancer target as it controls cellular functions such as growth, transformation, proliferation,
motility and differentiation. Plasma cell cancer (multiple myeloma) occurs more than 10% among all haematological
malignancies and accounts for 2% of all cancer-related deaths each year, it is mainly regulated by PI3K/AKT
signaling cascade. Quinazoline derivatives have been reported as promising PI3K inhibitors. Lapatinib, afatinib, gefitinib,
erlotinib, idelalisib and copanlisib are quinazoline-based, FDA-approved PI3K inhibitors, while compounds
like NVPBYL719, GDC-0032, AZD8186, AZD-6482, etc. are under different stages of clinical trials. In light of the
above-mentioned facts, in the present study, we have reported different synthetic approaches, mechanisms of anticancer
action, and structure-activity relationship analysis of reported quinazoline derivatives as PI3K inhibitors to help
researchers working in the field in designing better and isoform-selective PI3K inhibitors.
CYP1B1: A Promising Target in Cancer Drug Discovery
Authors: Fabris Marciéli , Luiza Silva Mariana , de Santiago-Silva Kaio Maciel , de Lima Ferreira Bispo Marcelle , Goes Camargo Priscila
Published: January 2023

CYP1B1 plays an essential role in cancer's pathogenesis since it activates procarcinogens. Significantly, this
enzyme catalyzes the hydroxylation of 17β-estradiol, leading to carcinogenic metabolites involved in carcinogenesis
and cancer progression. Therefore, the inhibition of CYP1B1 activity is considered a therapeutic target for chemotherapy.
In addition, CYP1B1 is overexpressed in hormone-dependent cancer cells and could be related to resistance to
anticancer drugs. However, the activity of CYP1B1 in the tumor microenvironment can metabolize and activate prodrugs
in cancer cells, providing more selectivity and being useful for chemoprevention or chemotherapy strategies.
Furthermore, due to its importance in anticancer drug design, recent studies have reported using computational methods
to understand the intermolecular interactions between possible ligands and CYP1B1. Therefore, in this perspective,
we highlight recent findings in developing CYP1B1 inhibitors (flavonoids, trans-stilbenes, estradiol derivatives, and
carbazoles) and CYP1B1-activated prodrugs (a chalcone DMU-135 and an oxime DMAKO-20). Finally, we have
analyzed their possible molecular interactions with this enzymatic target by molecular docking, which can help to
design new active substances.
Preventive Potential of Extracts of Some Dietary Plants against SARSCoV-
2 Infection
Authors: Farooq Saba , Atia-tul-Wahab  , Choudhary Muhamamd Iqbal , Atta-ur-Rahman
Published: January 2023

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) had emerged as an unprecedented
global health crisis. The pandemic resulted in over 672 million confirmed cases, and 6.84 million
deaths till date. Several dietary plants are known for their beneficial health effects due to their diverse
bioactive metabolites. Some of them are already reported for their therapeutic potential
against respiratory viral infections with excellent safety profiles. Thus they can serve as sources of
bioactive agents for the prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Objective:

With limited therapeutic options, the identification of safe, effective, and affordable
medicines for the SARS-CoV-2 infection are urgently needed. The primary aim of the current study
is to identify edible plant materials with preventive activity against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Method:

Extracts of 30 dietary plants were evaluated for their in cellulo anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential.
The antiviral activity was evaluated on SARS-CoV-2, propagated in Vero cell line (ATCCCCL-
81), followed by isolation of viral RNA, and its confirmation by qRT-PCR. Cytotoxicity of
extracts was evaluated by using MTT assay in the Vero cell line, while the reduction in viral load
was measured through plaque reduction assay. Furthermore, evaluations of the plant extracts on various
treatment targets were also performed in cellulo.

Results:

An extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (Fenugreek leaves) (part of the plant: leaves)
was identified as a promising inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 propagation with 98.7% reduction in the
formation of plaques at 50 μg mL−1. Moreover, Trapa natans L. (Water caltrop, fruit) (part of the
plant: fruit) also showed a 55.0% reduction in viral load at 50 μg mL−1. Both dietary plants exhibited
prophylactic effects against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusion:

Trigonella foenum-graecum L., and Trapa natans L. and their bioactive metabolites
can be used as preventive agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection. These results can form the basis
for the development of anti-viral nutraceutical formulations.
Acidophilic Microbes: Diversity and Adaptation to Low pH
Authors: Gurung Anirudra , Gurung Cyaria
Published: January 2023

Acidophiles are the organisms that usually grow at a pH of 3.0 or below. They usually occur in an environment rich in iron and sulfur. These organisms have the ability to oxidize sulfur and iron producing sulfuric acid thus making the environment acidic. The environments where acidophiles are commonly found are termed acid mine drainage (AMD) or acid rock drainage (ARD). The production of acid helps in the dissolution of several minerals present in the environment; hence acidophiles play important roles in bio-metallurgy. Acidophiles are a diverse group of organisms belonging to all three domains of life viz. Bacteria, Archaea to Eukarya. Many of them are obligate chemolithotrophs, and few are acidophilic heterotrophs. Usually, the chemolithotrophs are the ones that oxidize ferrous iron and sulfur into ferric iron and sulphate respectively. During their growth, they produce or secrete organic waste products, which are otherwise toxic to obligate chemolithotrophs but are usually scavenged by the acidophilic heterotrophs. Because of the acidic environment, proton concentration [H+] is always high outside the cell compared to the cytoplasm, thus pH gradient across the membrane is readily generated for these organisms. The pH gradient so generated forms proton motive force (PMF), which is utilized for the coupling of ADP and Pi to generate ATP molecules with the help of ATPase enzymes. However, continuous flow of proton from outside into the cell results in the cytoplasmic protonation or acidification of cytoplasm which may lead to deleterious effects such as denaturation or inactivation of several macromolecules such as DNA or proteins. Thus, the acidophiles must have evolved mechanism(s) to resist or tolerate low pH. Several mechanisms, such as proton impermeability, reverse membrane potential, etc. have been proposed to explain their ability to thrive under low pH maintaining the homeostatic balance in their systems. In this chapter, the diversity of acidophilic microorganisms and the mechanisms of their acid resistance are discussed in detail.
Radiation Resistant Microorganisms
Authors: Das Ghosh Upal
Published: January 2023

 Starting from its formation as a cosmic particle, the earth is exposed to
various types of radiation. With gradual cooling and environmental modifications, it
started supporting life, first in the form of viruses and bacteria. So, radiation-resistant
microorganisms are thought to be among the Earth’s ancient life forms. But, however,
it is relatively an unexplored arena of research today. Though the members are few,
radiation-resistant bacteria belong to a phylogenetically diverse community and their
degree of withstanding the dose of radiation is also diverse. In most of the cases, the
resistance mechanism involved survival from DNA damage and protein oxidation. In
this chapter, we will discuss the diversity of radiation-resistant bacteria explored so far
with their generalized mechanisms of resistance, along with the basic concept of
radiation and radiation-induced damages. 
Oligotrophs: Microbes at Low Nutrient Levels
Authors: Kumar Tiwary Bipransh , Rai Nitya
Published: January 2023

Extremophiles are microbes capable of adaptation, survival and growth in
extreme habitats that are supposed as adverse or lethal for other life forms. Like various
other extreme environments, bacteria are also reported to grow in a minimum medium
without additional carbon and energy sources. The microorganisms that can grow in
low nutrient concentrations, or in the apparent absence of nutrients, are known as
oligotrophs. In contrast, copiotroph bacteria grow fast where the resource or nutrient is
abundant. Many of these oligotrophs alter their morphology (surface to volume ratio)
with changing nutrient concentrations. The diverse oligotrophs have been isolated from
the different low-nutrient habitats, such as marine, soil, desert soil, ultra-pure water,
etc. The molecular and physiological properties of diverse oligotrophs and their
applications in bioremediation are also studied. Oligotrophs would also be suitable for
in situ bioremediation, because such microorganisms can grow on the contaminated
site without additional nutrients. Remarkably, the adaptive capabilities of oligotrophs
convert them into an attractive source for industrial purposes. Thus, oligotrophs have a
biotechnological potential, orienting researchers to attempt their isolation and studies
from various low-nutrient habitats. The objective of this chapter is to discuss the
characteristics, adaptations and applications of oligotrophs. 
Diversity and Mechanisms of Adaptation of Predominant Bacterial Chemolithotrophs in Extreme Habitats
Authors: Kumar Saha Kunal , Mandal Subhrangshu , Alam Masrure
Published: January 2023

 Bacterial chemolithotrophy is one of the most ancient metabolisms and is generally defined as the ability of some microorganisms to utilize a wide range of inorganic substrates as an energy or electron source. While lithotrophy can itself be considered as extremophily, as only some microorganisms (the rock-eaters) have the ability to utilize diverse inorganic chemicals as the sole source of energy, the phylogenetically diverse groups of lithotrophs can thrive in a wide range of extreme habitats. Apart from their excellent eco-physiological adaptability, they also possess versatile enzymatic machinery for maintaining their lithotrophic attributes under such extreme environments. In this chapter, we have highlighted the diversity of iron, hydrogen and sulfur lithotrophic extremophilic bacteria in various extreme habitats, and their role in maintaining the primary productivity, ecosystem stability and mineral cycling / mineralogical transformations. Moreover, genetic determinants and different enzymatic systems which are reported to be involved in such lithotrophic metabolism also have been discussed. We hope this article will shed some new light on the field of extremophile lithotrophy, which will eventually improve our understanding of the extended new boundaries of life. 
Fungal Laccase-Mediated Enhancement of the Bioactivity of Green Algae Extracts
Authors: Spyrou Stamatia , Chatzikonstantinou Alexandra , Giannakopoulou Archontoula , Fotiadou Renia , Priska Silvia , Simos Yannis , Tsakni Aliki , Peschos Dimitrios , Houhoula Dimitra , Voutsas Epaminondas , Stamatis Haralambos
Published: January 2023

Biomass derived from green marine macroalgae Ulva sp. is considered a rich source of bioactive compounds. In the present study, we demonstrate the increased bioactivity of a phenolic-rich extract derived from green marine macroalgae Ulva intestinalis after its treatment with fungal laccases from Trametes versicolor and Agaricus bisporus. The phenolic composition of the extract, before and after its enzymatic treatment, was determined through several analytical methods. Furthermore, the antioxidant, enzyme-inhibitory, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity of enzymatically modified and non-modified extracts was comparatively investigated. Depending on the laccase used, the enzyme-modified extracts exhibited different phenolic content and enhanced bioactivities compared to the non-treated ones. The enzymatically modified extracts presented enhanced antimicrobial, anti-lipoxygenase and anti-collagenase activities, and mild cytotoxicity. These results indicate that the proposed biocatalytic process could be applied to produce green macroalgal natural extracts with enhanced bioactivities paving the way for their implementation in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical industries.
The Clinical Impact of Flash Glucose Monitoring—a Digital Health App and Smartwatch Technology in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Scoping Review
Authors: Diez Alvarez Sergio , Fellas Antoni , Santos Derek , Sculley Dean , Wynne Katie , Acharya Shamasunder , Navathe Pooshan , Girones Xavier , Coda Andrea
Published: January 2023

Background

Type 2 diabetes has a growing prevalence and confers significant cost burden to the health care system, raising the urgent need for cost-effective and easily accessible solutions. The management of type 2 diabetes requires significant commitment from the patient, caregivers, and the treating team to optimize clinical outcomes and prevent complications. Technology and its implications for the management of type 2 diabetes is a nascent area of research. The impact of some of the more recent technological innovations in this space, such as continuous glucose monitoring, flash glucose monitoring, web-based applications, as well as smartphone- and smart watch–based interactive apps has received limited attention in the research literature.

Objective

This scoping review aims to explore the literature available on type 2 diabetes, flash glucose monitoring, and digital health technology to improve diabetic clinical outcomes and inform future research in this area.

Methods

A scoping review was undertaken by searching Ovid MEDLINE and CINAHL databases. A second search using all identified keywords and index terms was performed on Ovid MEDLINE (January 1966 to July 2021), EMBASE (January 1980 to July 2021), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; the Cochrane Library, latest issue), CINAHL (from 1982), IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Libraries, and Web of Science databases.

Results

There were very few studies that have explored the use of mobile health and flash glucose monitoring in type 2 diabetes. These studies have explored somewhat disparate and limited areas of research, and there is a distinct lack of methodological rigor in this area of research. The 3 studies that met the inclusion criteria have addressed aspects of the proposed research question.

Conclusions

This scoping review has highlighted the lack of research in this area, raising the opportunity for further research in this area, focusing on the clinical impact and feasibility of the use of multiple technologies, including flash glucose monitoring in the management of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Addressing the challenges of adapting an AI-powered symptom assessment and care navigation tool for South African users (Preprint)
Authors: Kini Nisha , Coltuneac Livia-Carina , Hartenstein Vera , Azadzoy Hila , O'Donnell Lisa , Tuerk Ewelina
Published: January 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Background
Africa has the lowest density of healthcare workers globally and digital tools using artificial intelligence (AI) could bridge that gap affordably. A partnership between Ada Health and Praekelt.org sought to integrate Ada for users in South Africa (SA).
Challenges and solutions
Three challenges were identified to improve the efficacy of health AI in the local setting:
Localization: disease incidences and presentations of maternal and child health in SA differ from those in Europe and North America. We adapted Ada’s knowledge base to meet these challenges. For this project, 25 maternal and 25 pediatric health conditions were localized, and one new pediatric condition was created for users of the Ada app. This included adding region-specific incidences and adapting the knowledge base for variations in disease presentation.
Readability: the existing readability score of Ada’s consumer-facing medical content was calculated using the Automated Readability Index as grade 11.0 (± 1.8, range = 5.8-17.5). Using Content Design London’s Readability Guidelines, the readability score of Ada’s content was lowered to below grade 8 (7.4 ± 0.8, range = 4.6-10.2) while maintaining medical accuracy.
Different approaches to AI: most medical research is conducted in high-income countries and among people with high literacy levels, thereby leading to bias in the system. Using a white-box approach allows intelligent solutions to be delivered that incorporate the needs of the population, including in low and middle income countries.
Conclusion
By partnering with grassroots and local organizations, such as Praekelt.org, AI companies can reduce the burden on vulnerable healthcare systems, but should be designed and adapted to the needs of the local population to account for regional differences in incidences and disease presentations, and language barriers. Furthermore, wherever possible, efforts should be made to reduce bias in AI by using white-box systems. It is possible to use simple language for consumer-facing medical text without compromising on medical quality. With a few minor adaptations AI-technology can be localized to serve global public health needs.
Enhancing Evidence-Based Pharmacy by Comparing the Quality of Web-Based Information Sources to the EVInews Database: Randomized Controlled Trial With German Community Pharmacists (Preprint)
Authors: Alexa Jennifer Maria , Richter Matthias , Bertsche Thilo
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Self-medication counseling in community pharmacies plays a crucial role in health care. Counseling advice should therefore be evidence-based. Web-based information and databases are commonly used as electronic information sources. EVInews is a self-medication–related information tool consisting of a database and monthly published newsletters for pharmacists. Little is known about the quality of pharmacists’ electronic information sources for evidence-based self-medication counseling.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to investigate the quality of community pharmacists’ web-based search results for self-medication–related content in comparison with the EVInews database, based on an adjusted quality score for pharmacists.

METHODS

After receiving ethics approval, we performed a quantitative web-based survey with a search task as a prospective randomized, controlled, and unblinded trial. For the search task, participants were instructed to search for evidence-based information to verify 6 health-related statements from 2 typical self-medication indications. Pharmacists across Germany were invited via email to participate. After providing written informed consent, they were automatically, randomly assigned to use either web-based information sources of their choice without the EVInews database (web group) or exclusively the EVInews database (EVInews group). The quality of the information sources that were used for the search task was then assessed by 2 evaluators using a quality score ranging from 100% (180 points, all predefined criteria fulfilled) to 0% (0 points, none of the predefined criteria fulfilled). In case of assessment discrepancies, an expert panel consisting of 4 pharmacists was consulted.

RESULTS

In total, 141 pharmacists were enrolled. In the Web group (n=71 pharmacists), the median quality score was 32.8% (59.0 out of 180.0 points; IQR 23.0-80.5). In the EVInews group (n=70 pharmacists), the median quality score was significantly higher (85.3%; 153.5 out of 180.0 points; P<.001) and the IQR was smaller (IQR 125.1-157.0). Fewer pharmacists completed the entire search task in the Web group (n=22) than in the EVInews group (n=46). The median time to complete the search task was not significantly different between the Web group (25.4 minutes) and the EVInews group (19.7 minutes; P=.12). The most frequently used web-based sources (74/254, 29.1%) comprised tertiary literature.

CONCLUSIONS

The median quality score of the web group was poor, and there was a significant difference in quality scores in favor of the EVInews group. Pharmacists’ web-based and self-medication–related information sources often did not meet standard quality requirements and showed considerable variation in quality.

CLINICALTRIAL

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00026104; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00026104