bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of the Monograph “Law of the Digital Environment” (Tikhon Podshivalov et al. (eds.), 2022)
Authors: Begishev I.
Published: April 2023

In the era of digitalization, a rapid development of technologies takes place in various spheres of human activity. The pace of introduction of these digital technologies is so high that a gap has emerged, and is constantly growing, between the capabilities of digitalization products and the legal regulation of their application and the consequences to which their erroneous or intended use may lead. The applied aspect of regulation of legal relations within the digital environment, caused by the need to operatively react to the rapidly developing digital technologies, is currently to a certain extent outrunning the theoretical one, entailing a number of legal collisions, as only fundamental scientific substantiation of introduction of certain legal norms may guarantee their consistency and legality. Most of the works in this sphere are, undoubtedly, fundamental, but they mainly refer to individual aspects of legal regulation or theoretical substantiation of the large-scale problem under consideration. In this regard, it is acutely necessary to systematize the current experience in substantiating various approaches to the legal regulation of public relations in the digital environment, which would comprise fundamental positions of researchers from different countries. This task was posed by the multi-national collective of the monograph “Law of the Digital Environment,” the first large-scale research synthesizing theoretical and practical studies in the sphere of legal substantiation and support of events, phenomena and processes taking place in the digital era. Such work can undoubtedly be called a discovery in the sphere of digital law and an “encyclopedia” of the legal field under study.
Effects of Glutathionylation on Guanylyltransferase Activity of NS5
N-terminal Capping Domain from Dengue, Japanese Encephalitis, and
Zika Viruses
Authors: Saisawang Chonticha , Reamtong Onrapak , Nachampa Isara , Petcharat Patchareebhorn , Priewkhiew Suphansa , Sakdee Somsri , Wongsantichon Jantana , J. Ketterman Albert
Published: April 2023

Background:

Glutathionylation is a protein post-translational modification triggered by
oxidative stress. The susceptible proteins are modified by the addition of glutathione to specific
cysteine residues. Virus infection also induces oxidative stress in the cell, which affects cellular
homeostasis. It is not just the cellular proteins but the viral proteins that can also be modified by
glutathionylation events, thereby impacting the function of the viral proteins.

Objectives:

This study was conducted to identify the effects of modification by glutathionylation on
the guanylyltransferase activity of NS5 and identify the cysteine residues modified for the three
flavivirus NS5 proteins.

Methods:

The capping domain of NS5 proteins from 3 flaviviruses was cloned and expressed as
recombinant proteins. A gel-based assay for guanylyltransferase activity was performed using a GTP
analog labeled with the fluorescent dye Cy5 as substrate. The protein modification by
glutathionylation was induced by GSSG and evaluated by western blot. The reactive cysteine residues
were identified by mass spectrometry.

Results:

It was found that the three flavivirus proteins behaved in a similar fashion with increasing
glutathionylation yielding decreased guanylyltransferase activity. The three proteins also possessed
conserved cysteines and they appeared to be modified for all three proteins.

Conclusion:

The glutathionylation appeared to induce conformational changes that affect enzyme
activity. The conformational changes might also create binding sites for host cell protein interactions
at later stages of viral propagation with the glutathionylation event, thereby serving as a switch for
function change.
Purine Nucleosides and Analogues Bearing Chiral Substituents:
Medicinal Chemistry and Therapeutic Perspective
Authors: Drenichev Mikhail S. , Borokh Valentina N.
Published: April 2023

Adenosine and its analogues play an important role as bioregulators of metabolic
processes in animal cells, affecting a variety of metabolic functions by acting
through the purinergic signaling system. Synthesis and structure-activity relationship for
some known purine nucleosides bearing chiral substituents are considered in this work.
These compounds represent a promising potential as drug prototypes for targeted therapy
of cancer, metabolic dysfunctions, and neuronal disorders due to their enhanced selectivity
to receptors of the purinergic signaling system. Derivatives of adenosine and guanosine
containing a chiral substituent also manifest antiviral activity.
Efficient Inhibition of Pathologic Angiogenesis using Combination Therapy of
Anti-Epcam and Anti-VEGFR2 Nanobodies
Authors: Karami Elmira , Azizi Parisa , Behdani Mahdi , Kazemi-Lomedasht Fatemeh
Published: April 2023

Background:

EpCAM and VEGFR2 play an important role in angiogenesis and tumorigenesis. It is
currently of paramount importance to produce new drugs that can inhibit the angiogenesis and proliferation
of tumor cells. Nanobodies are potential drug candidates for cancer therapy due to their unique properties.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the combined inhibitory effect of anti-EpCAM and anti-VEGFR2
nanobodies in cancer cell lines.

Methods:

Inhibitory activity of anti-EpCAM and anti-VEGFR2 nanobodies on MDA-MB231, MCF7, and
HUVEC cells was investigated using both in vitro (MTT, migration, and tube formation assays) and in vivo
assays.

Results:

Results showed that the combination of anti-EpCAM and anti-VEGFR2 nanobodies efficiently inhibited
proliferation, migration, and tube formation of MDA-MB-231 cells compared to each individual nanobodies
(p < 0.05). In addition, the combination of anti-EpCAM and anti-VEGFR2 nanobodies efficiently inhibited
tumor growth and volume of Nude mice bearing MDA-MB-231 cells (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Taken together, the results indicate the potential of combination therapy as an efficient approach
to cancer therapy.
Nomilin Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Response by Binding with Myeloid Differentiation Protein-2
Authors: Chen Yuting , Guo Song , Chen Guirong , Liu Chang , Zhang Mingbo , Wang Xiaobo
Published: April 2023

Background:

Nomilin shows anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the activation of
the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR 4)/NF-κB pathway. However, the key target of the anti-inflammatory
activity of nomilin has not been elaborated and needs further exploration.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the drug potential of nomilin and its ability to target myeloid
differentiation protein 2 (MD-2) as a mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory activity of
nomilin on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-TLR4/MD-2-NF-κB signaling pathways.

Methods:

The methods of ForteBio and molecular docking were used to investigate the internation
between MD-2 and nomilin. 3-(4,5)-Dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide
experiment was performed to test the effect of nomilin on cell viability. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot experiments were carried out
to assess the anti-inflammatory activity and possible mechanism of nomilin in vitro.

Results:

The results indicated that nomilin exhibited binding affinity with MD-2. Nomilin significantly
reduced the release and expression of NO, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β induced by LPS in vitro.
It inhibited the expression of LPS-TLR4/MD-2-NF-κB signaling pathway proteins, such as TLR4,
Myd88, P65, P-P65, and iNOS.

Conclusion:

Our results suggested that nomilin had therapeutic potential and was bound to MD-2.
Nomilin exhibited anti-inflammatory activity by binding to the key protein MD-2 and inhibiting
the LPS-TLR4/MD-2-NF-κB signaling pathway.
Factors Influencing ADME Properties of Therapeutic Antisense Oligonucleotides:
Physicochemical Characteristics and Beyond
Authors: Jiang Rongrong , Hooshfar Shirin , Rebecca Eno Marsha , Yun Cassandra , Sonego Zimmermann Estevan , Shinkyo Raku
Published: April 2023

Therapeutic antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) represent a diverse array of chemically modified singlestranded
deoxyribonucleotides that work complementarily to affect their mRNA targets. They vastly differ from
conventional small molecules. These newly developed therapeutic ASOs possess unique absorption, distribution,
metabolism, and excretion (ADME) processes that ultimately determine their pharmacokinetic, efficacy and safety
profiles. The ADME properties of ASOs and associated key factors have not been fully investigated. Therefore,
thorough characterization and in-depth study of their ADME properties are critical to support drug discovery and
development processes for safe and effective therapeutic ASOs. In this review, we discussed the main factors affecting
the ADME characteristics of these novels and evolving therapies. The major changes to ASO backbone and sugar
chemistry, conjugation approaches, sites and routes of administration, etc., are the principal determinants of ADME
and PK profiles that consequentially impact their efficacy and safety profiles. In addition, species difference and DDI
considerations are important in understanding ADME profile and PK translatability but are less studied for ASOs.
We, therefore, have summarized these aspects based on current knowledge and provided discussions in this review.
We also give an overview of the current tools, technologies, and approaches available to investigate key factors that
influence the ADME of ASO drugs and provide future perspectives and knowledge gap analysis.
The Therapeutic Effects of Withaferin A against Cancer: Overview
and Updates
Authors: Abeesh Prathapan , Guruvayoorappan Chandrasekaran
Published: April 2023

Cancer is a rapidly rising health problem among the global population, and
this burden causes a significant challenge for public health. Current chemotherapeutic
agents have different limitations, including drug resistance and severe side effects, and it
demands a robust approach to accessing promising anti-cancer therapeutics. The
natural compounds have been extensively studied to identify improved therapeutic
agents for cancer therapy. Withaferin A (WA) is a steroidal lactone found in Withania
somnifera and possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-angiogenesis, and anticancer
properties. Multiple studies have shown that WA treatment attenuated various
cancer hallmarks by inducing apoptosis and reducing angiogenesis and metastasis with
reduced side effects. WA is a promising agent for the treatment of various cancer, and it
targets various signaling pathways. With recent updates, the current review highlights
the therapeutic implications of WA and its molecular targets in different cancer.
CsHscB Derived from a Liver Fluke Clonorchis sinensis
Ameliorates Cholestatic Hepatic Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of
Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Yu Qian , Koda Stephane , Xu Na , Li Jing , Wang Jian-Ling , Liu Man , Liu Ji-Xin , Zhang Yu , Yang Hui-Min , Zhang Bei-Bei , Li Xiang-Yang , Li Xiao-Cui , Tang Ren-Xian , Zheng Kui-Yang , Yan Chao
Published: April 2023

Background:

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic
liver disease characterized by inflammatory fibrosis usually involving the whole biliary
tree. However, there are very limited treatment options to treat this disease. Our
previous study found a lipid-protein rCsHscB from a liver fluke - Clonorchis sinensis,
which had full capacities of immune regulation. Therefore, we investigated the role of
rCsHscB in a mouse model of sclerosing cholangitis induced by xenobiotic 3,5-
diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) to explore whether this protein had potential
therapeutic value for PSC.

Methods:

Mice were fed 0.1% DDC for 4 weeks and treated with CsHscB (30
μg/mouse, intraperitoneal injection, once every 3 days); the control group was given an
equal amount of PBS or CsHscB under normal diet conditions. All the mice were
sacrificed at 4 weeks for the evaluation of biliary proliferation, fibrosis, and inflammation.

Results:

rCsHscB treatment attenuated DDC-induced liver congestion and enlargement
and significantly decreased the upregulation of serum AST and ALT levels. The
administration of rCsHscB to DDC-fed mice significantly decreased cholangiocyte
proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production compared to mice fed with DDC
alone. Also, rCsHscB treatment showed a decreased expression of α-SMA in the liver
and other markers of liver fibrosis (Masson staining, Hydroxyproline content, and
collagen deposit). More interestingly, DDC-fed mice treated with rCsHscB showed a
significant up-regulation of PPAR-γ expression, which was similar to control mice,
indicating the involvement of PPAR-γ signaling in the protective action of rCsHscB.

Conclusion:

Overall, our data show that rCsHscB attenuates the progression of
cholestatic fibrosis induced by DDC and supports the potential for manipulating the
parasite-derived molecule to treat certain immune-mediated disorders.
GRP78 is Overexpressed in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Tissues and is
Associated with High VEGF Expression in Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A
Pilot Study
Authors: Al-Keilani Maha , Alqudah Mohammad A. , Almomani Basima , Alrjoub Moath M. , Shhabat Batool A. , Alzoubi Karem
Published: April 2023

Background:

Neovascularization is essential for the growth and progression of tumor tissues.
GRP78 is frequently overexpressed in various cancers and has been suggested as a proangiogenic
factor.

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the expression levels of GRP78 and to test for significant
relationships with the angiogenic markers, VEGF, and CD31.

Methods:

In this study, paraffin-embedded NSCLC tissue samples (71 adenocarcinomas and 23 squamous
cell carcinoma) were retrospectively collected from 94 patients with NSCLC. The expressions of
VEGF, CD31, and GRP78 were determined by immunohistochemistry.

Results:

High expression levels of VEGF and GRP78 were observed in 65 and 74 cases, respectively.
Thirty-six patients expressed high CD31 levels. Adenocarcinomas expressed higher levels of the three
proteins than squamous cell carcinomas (p-value < 0.05). Moreover, a statistically significant association
was found between the expression levels of VEGF and CD31 (p-value = 0.001) and VEGF and
GRP78 (p-value=0.028).

Conclusion:

GRP78 overexpression was revealed in most of the investigated samples. The positive
association between VEGF and GRP78 may indicate the proangiogenic role of GRP78 in lung cancer.
Moreover, the positive association between VEGF and CD31 expression levels suggests that VEGF
may cooperate with CD31 to promote angiogenesis in NSCLC.
Recent Advances in Organic Synthesis Using Glycerol as a Green Media
Authors: Narasimhamurthy Kereyagalahally H. , Joy Muthipeedika Nibin , Sajith Ayyiliath M. , Santra Sougata , Zyryanov Grigory V. , Swaroop Toreshettahally R. , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S.
Published: April 2023

Various catalytic and non-catalytic organic transformations are carried out in glycerol media
with superior efficiency over commonly employed organic solvents. The success of glycerol as a
green media is due to its exceptional H-bonding properties, which result in enhanced reactivity in
many organic transformations. In addition, its highly polar nature and non-toxic properties, recyclability,
large availability as an organic waste from the biodiesel industry, high boiling point, low vapor
pressure and low price further extend the scope of this solvent as green media. In this review, we present
the potential use of glycerol as a green solvent in many organic transformations in two sections:
cyclization reactions and miscellaneous reactions.
Total and Partial Replacement of Meat by Mycoprotein in Hamburger: Physico-Chemical, Nutritional, Mechanical, and Overall Acceptability
Authors: Hashempour-Baltork Fataneh , Farshi Parastou , Jannat Behrooz , Dadgarnejad Manouchehr , Asgharian Ramin , Khosravi-Darani Kianoush , Hosseini Hedayat
Published: April 2023

Aim:

Processed meats are considered the most consumable products worldwide. However,
there are several limitations related to these products such as health and environmental issues,
and the high energy, time, and cost needed for their production, thus manufacturers are looking
for effective alternatives for processed meats. Mycoprotein can be a useful approach for meat
substitution.

Introduction:

This study’s objective was the partial and total replacement of meat with mycoproteins
in the formulation of burgers and to investigate the characteristics of these novel formulations
for comparison with the control sample (full meat burger).

Methods:

Cooking loss, mechanical, physicochemical, nutritional, color, and sensory properties
were determined.

Results:

The results indicated that mycoprotein substitution could improve health and nutritional
properties as a result of including high-value protein and lower lipid content (mostly unsaturated
fatty acids). However, the beef burger had better mechanical properties such as cohesiveness,
hardness, springiness, and gumminess compared to mycoprotein-containing burgers. Higher OBC
(oil binding capacity) and WBC (water binding capacity) of mycoprotein were responsible for filling
the interstitial spaces within the protein matrix and reducing the textural attributes. Thus, using
less oil and water in mycoprotein-containing formulations is recommended. Moreover, the
cooking loss percentage decreased by increasing the mycoprotein content of burgers, which has
economic advantages. According to sensory evaluations, no significant changes (p>0.05) were
shown in the overall acceptance and taste scores of the burgers.

Conclusions:

Mycoproteins are potential compounds to be used as promising ingredients for the
complete substitution of meat in the burger.
Micronutrients throughout the Life Cycle: Needs and Functions in Health and Disease
Authors: Kumar Mohit , Kumar Devesh , Sharma Ankita , Bhadauria Shivam , Thakur Anil , Bhatia Amit
Published: April 2023

Background:

Micronutrients play a vital role in the maintenance and proper functioning of body tissues. Micronutrients broadly consist of minerals and vitamins. These vitamins and minerals are of supreme importance in the treatment of an eclectic variety of diseases and are obligatory for many metabolic processes.

Objective:

The objective of this review is to give a comprehensive overview on the role of micronutrients in the treatment of broad-spectrum diseases and also give insightful knowledge regarding the numerous food sources for obtaining nutrients, their dietary reference values, and their deficiencies. In this review, the authors have also highlighted the role of micronutrients in COVID- 19.

Findings:

A properly balanced diet provides an acceptable amount of nutrients in the body. Deficiency and excessive nutrients in an individual’s diet may cause diseases or abnormal conditions. An improper diet may be responsible for the occurrence of deficiencies in iron, calcium, and iodine. Minerals like iron, boron, calcium, cobalt, phosphorous, and vitamins like K, E, A, D, and Riboflavin can cure and treat fatal diseases like Alzheimer’s, bone development conditions, osteoporosis, anemia, inflammatory bowel, and HIV Infections.

Conclusion:

Micronutrients are essential for metabolism and tissue function. Sufficient consumption is thus required, but providing additional supplements to persons who do not require them may be detrimental. Large-scale studies of varied micronutrient dosages with accurate outcome indicators are needed to optimize intakes in different patient groups and the general population at large. In this review, the authors have highlighted the crucial role of micronutrients in health and disease.
Esters of Quinoxaline-7-Carboxylate 1,4-di-N-Oxide as Potential Inhibitors
of Glycolytic Enzymes of Entamoeba histolytica: In silico Approach
Authors: Soto-Sánchez Jacqueline , Pérez-Mora Salvador , Ospina-Villa Juan David , Zavala-Ocampo Lizeth Mariel
Published: April 2023

Background:

Esters of quinoxaline-7-carboxylate 1,4-di-N-oxide (7-carboxylate
QdNOs) derivatives are compounds that inhibit the growth of Entamoeba histolytica, the causative
agent of amebiasis. Although these compounds cause changes in the redistribution of glycogen
deposits within the parasite, it is unknown whether these compounds interact with enzymes of the
glycolytic pathway.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to test the binding affinity of these compounds to pyrophosphate-
dependent phosphofructokinase (PPi-PFK), triosephosphate isomerase (TIM), and pyruvate
phosphate dikinase (PPDK) from E. histolytica as a possible mechanism of action.

Methods:

The molecular docking study of the 7-carboxylate QdNOs derivatives and the proteins
was performed using AutoDock/Vina software. Molecular dynamics simulation was performed for
100 ns.

Results:

Among all the selected compounds, T-072 exhibited the best binding affinity to EhPPi-
PFK and EhTIM proteins, while T-006 interacted best with EhPPDK. ADMET analysis revealed
that T-072 was non-toxic, while T-006 could become harmful to the host. In addition, molecular
dynamics showed that T-072 has stable interaction with EhPPi-PFK and EhTIM.

Conclusion:

Including all aspects, these data indicated that these compounds might inhibit the
activity of key enzymes in energy metabolism leading to parasite death. Furthermore, these compounds
may be a good starting point for the future development of new potent antiamebic agents.
In vitro Culture and Multilocus Genotyping of Giardia duodenalis
Trophozoites Obtained from Human Fecal Samples in Southwest of Iran
Authors: Yousefi Hossein Ali , Asgarian Fatemeh , Tavalla Mehdi , Ghafari Shokouh , Kohansal Kobra
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

The enteric protozoa, Giardia duodenalis (G. duodenalis), consists of
eight distinct assemblages (A-H) with identical morphological characteristics and a direct life
cycle. Successful axenic cultivation of this parasite is an important preliminary step for biological,
drug resistance and phylogenetic studies. Moreover, G. duodenalis exhibits great genetic and
biotypic diversity.

Aim:

The current study aimed to evaluate in vitro culture and multilocus genotyping of G.
duodenalis trophozoites obtained from human fecal samples in southwest Iran.

Methods:

Thirty human fecal specimens containing G. duodenalis cysts were collected from
Ahvaz city (southwest of Iran). The purification of cysts was carried out by the sucrose flotation
technique. The cysts were inoculated in a modified TYI-S-33 medium and was daily monitored
for the development and viability of trophozoites. After extracting DNA, gdh, bg and tpi genes
were evaluated using molecular techniques (the semi-nested PCR for gdh gene and the nested
PCR for tpi and bg genes). Eventually, the amplified fragments were sequenced and then, the
phylogenetic tree was drawn.

Results:

Of 30, the trophozoites were encysted from five samples. All three genes were detected
in two cases of five samples using molecular techniques. The multilocus phylogenetic analysis
demonstrated that all the two samples belonged to assemblage A and sub-assemblage AІІ.

Conclusion:

Our findings indicated the presence of different numbers of trophozoites with variable
development and survival rates in modified TYI-S-33 medium. Furthermore, the multilocus genotyping
showed that these trophozoites belonged to assemblage A and sub-assemblage AІІ.
Evaluation of the Mechanism of Sinomenii Caulis in Treating Ulcerative Colitis based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Tian Juan , Yang Changgeng , Wang Yun , Zhou Canlin
Published: April 2023

Background:

Studies have indicated that Sinomenii Caulis (SC) has several physiological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, immunosuppression, and so on. SC is currently widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, skin disease, and other diseases. However, the mechanism of SC in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) remains unclear.

Aims:

To predict the active components of SC and determine the mechanism of SC on UC.

Methods:

Active components and targets of SC were screened and obtained by TCMSP, PharmMapper, and CTD databases. The target genes of UC were searched from GEO (GSE9452), and DisGeNET databases. Based on the String database, Cytoscape 3.7.2 software, and David 6.7 database, we analyzed the relationship between SC active components and UC potential targets or pathways. Finally, identification of SC targets in anti-UC by molecular docking. GROMACS software was used to perform molecular dynamics simulations of protein and compound complexes and to perform free energy calculations.

Results:

Six main active components, 61 potential anti-UC gene targets, and the top 5 targets with degree value are IL6, TNF, IL1β, CASP3, and SRC. According to GO enrichment analysis, the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor and vascular endothelial growth factor stimulus may be relevant biological processes implicated in the treatment of UC by SC. The KEGG pathway analysis result was mainly associated with the IL-17, AGE-RAGE, and TNF signaling pathways. Based on molecular docking results, beta-sitosterol, 16-epi-Isositsirikine, Sinomenine, and Stepholidine are strongly bound to the main targets. Molecular dynamics simulation results showed that IL1B/beta-sitosterol and TNF/16-epi-Isositsirikine binding was more stable.

Conclusion:

SC can play a therapeutic role in UC through multiple components, targets, and pathways. The specific mechanism of action needs to be further explored.
Design of Real Time Intelligent System for Women Safety
Authors: Kohli Priyanka , Singh Kawaljeet , Sidhu Brahmaleen Kaur
Published: April 2023

Background:

Even the technology has advanced a lot in these modern times, women's
safety is still a massive issue. Women are not safe anywhere. Their safety is an essential and decisive
issue in today’s world. They face extreme troubles when they are alone, travelling on lonely
roads and at workplace. Education is essential for everyone and especially for women. It is a powerful
weapon to end poverty. Government and NGOs have made many rules and regulations but the
crime against women has not ended. There are many instances of harassment, abuse, eve-teasing,
kidnapping, domestic violence and rape. Women are working equally as men but still their safety is
a big challenge. With the boom in the IT and corporate sector, many women are now working and
even during nightshifts.

Objectives:

A Real Time Intelligent System for Women Safety has been proposed to overcome these
limitations.

Methods:

In this paper, many women's safety systems that were proposed or developed have been
discussed. Major drawbacks in the current system, devices or applications have been highlighted.
Latest technologies like machine learning, artificial intelligence or data science have been ignored.

Results:

The proposed system will be highly sophisticated with the latest techniques and women
will feel safe in all situations. It will predict the safe route while moving alone.

Conclusion:

Moreover, it will record the evidence and will also suggest the rights of women.
Expression and Enzyme Kinetics of Fused Plasmodium falciparum Orotate Phosphoribosyltransferase and Orotidine 5′-monophosphate Decarboxylase in Different Escherichia Coli
Authors: Imprasittichai Waranya , Krungkrai Sudaratana R. , Krungkrai Jerapan , Paojinda Patsarawadee
Published: April 2023

Background:

Fusion of the last two enzymes in the pyrimidine biosynthetic pathway in the inverse order by having COOH-terminal orotate phosphoribosyltransferase (OPRT) and NH2-terminal orotidine 5′-monophosphate decarboxylase (OMPDC), as OPRT-OMPDC, has been described in many organisms.

Objective:

The study aimed to select the optimum host cell and temperature for expressing the recombinant fusion OMPDC-OPRT having the enzymatic activity.

Methods:

We constructed gene fusions of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum OMPDC-OPRT (1,836 bp) in the pTrcHisA vector and expressed it as a 6xHis-tag bifunctional protein in three Escherichia coli strains (BL21(DE3), TOP10, Rosetta) at 18°C and 25°C. The recombinant bifunctional protein was partially purified by Ni-nitrilotriacetic acid affinity chromatography and confirmed via Western blot and LC-MS/MS. The enzyme kinetics of OPRT and OMPDC was assessed.

Results:

Specific enzymatic activities of both OPRT and OMPDC domains expressed in E. coli BL21(DE3) cells were approximately eight-to-nine-fold higher than those in the TOP10 cells at 18°C. However, the specific activities of both domains expressed in the TOP10 cells were twice higher than those of the BL21(DE3) cells at 25°C. Very low and no enzymatic activities were observed when the constructed vector was expressed in the Rosetta cells at both induction temperatures. The bifunctional enzyme had specific activities of the OPRT and OMPDC domains in a ratio of 1:2. Kinetic study values of the OPRT domain in the bifunctional OMPDC-OPRT enzyme were found to be relatively low at µM level and at the perfect catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km).

Conclusion:

The recombinant fusion of OMPDC-OPRT exhibited a high expression level of E. coli BL21(DE3) at 18°C. The kinetic parameter is greater than 108M-1s-1.
Use of Ceftriaxone Powder in Spinal Surgery Infection: A Comparative Case Study on the Rate of Wound Infection
Authors: Lawal Mamman Muhammad , Muhammad Faisal , Musa Abuhuraira Ado , Shuaib Shuaib Sani , Abdullahi Yusuf Muhammad , Usman Hadija Yamman
Published: April 2023

Background:

Surgical Site Infection (SSI) due to spinal surgeries is relatively frequent complication with significant morbidity that results in a prolonged stay in the hospital, need for reproaches, prolonged chances of recovery, and loss of instrumentation. This study was conducted on the patients who underwent a spinal fusion with antibiotic powder wound application compared to a control group.

Case Presentation:

A retrospective study involving spinal fusion was conducted between March and August 2018 in which antibiotic powder was used and all spinal fusion in the previous six months as control. Data was gathered from patients’ case notes. Fifty-eight patients underwent a spinal fusion with antibiotic powder wound application between March and August 2018. While 68 patients had spinal fusion between August 2017 and February 2018, in which antibiotic powder was not applied to the wound during closure. Thirty-six (62.0%) surgeries were performed in the cervical spine, while 22 (38.0%) for the thoracolumbar spine were in the antibiotic group. In the group without antibiotic use, 39 (57.0%) were cervical spine surgeries, while 29 (43.0%) were thoracolumbar surgeries.

Conclusion:

Our study showed that the rate of SSI was nonexistent in patients with antibiotic powder during wound closure compared to the control, which recorded a 7.4% rate of SSI. However, a study on a larger population of patients is required to ascertain whether this procedure should be promoted.
Awareness of Novo Types of Composites among Dental Students and Interns in Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia. Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Salem Rahaf Abdulkhaliq , Danish Basem Adel , Abdulaleem Nada Ali
Published: April 2023

Background:

The tooth structure is important to be restored at the very beginning of any decay or any recession that may affect the gingiva, to prevent any further complications. Moreover, as the patient’s priority is to have an esthetic smile, the use of esthetic materials such as gingival pink composite and single-shaded composite is indicated for an immediate result.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the awareness among dental students and interns of novo types of composite (gingival pink, and single shade) in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study with an online survey was formulated and distributed on different social media platforms. A total of 190 participants responded to the study questionnaire. Data were collected from filled-out questionnaires and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2019. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results:

The results showed a low level of awareness of gingival composite material (40.5%), and 51% of the students and interns were aware of single-shaded composites. The awareness level of the advantages of the esthetic use of gingival composite materials was 36%, and 56% were aware of the advantages of the esthetic use of the single-shaded composite.

Conclusion:

This study indicated a low level of awareness regarding the use and characteristics of gingival composite materials among dental students and interns. There was a higher level of awareness about single-shade composites. It is recommended that education on novo composites should be prioritized.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Ophthalmology, Medicine, and Surgery Journals: Comparing Citation Metrics and International Collaboration
Authors: Whitescarver Todd D. , Anthony Casey L. , Hoskin Annette K. , Aden James K , Gardner Scott E. , De Gracia Pablo , Agrawal Rupesh , Woreta Fasika , Justin Grant A.
Published: April 2023

Objective:

To evaluate SCImago’s top ranked ophthalmology journals, comparing them with the top medical and surgical journals.

Methods:

Data over 20 years was extracted for the top-ranked 20 ophthalmology, top 5 medical, and top 5 surgical journals based on SCImago Journal Ranking (SJR). Trends in SJR, self-citations, external citations per document, uncited documents, international collaboration, citations per document, and total citations were identified. ANCOVA analysis was utilized to further characterize average trends over time between medicine, ophthalmology and surgery.

Results and Discussion:

The fields of medicine, ophthalmology, then surgery had the highest SJR while medicine, surgery, then ophthalmology had the highest h-indices. Medicine had 1.01 uncited per cited article, compared to 0.54 and 0.43 for ophthalmology and surgery. Percent of self-citation was 5.9% for ophthalmology, 5.0% for surgery, and 0.56% for medicine; however, self-citations per article were the highest for surgery. International collaboration was highest for ophthalmology (19.14%) compared to surgery (16.75%) and medicine (8.00%). Medicine increased disproportionately in SJR (p= 0.0037), citations per document (p <0.001), and total citations (p<0.001) compared to surgery and ophthalmology over the last 20 years. Ophthalmology had the largest decrease in the percent of uncited articles (p=0.0006).

Conclusion:

Ophthalmology has a lower h-index compared to surgery and medicine but was comparable when using more qualitative measures including SJR and uncited articles. Ophthalmology has the highest number of self-citations and the greatest level of international collaboration.
An Evaluation of the Use of External Fixator in the Management of Open Tibial Shaft Fractures at a Tertiary Hospital in Pretoria, South Africa
Authors: Semenya Clement N. , Golele Sikheto S. , Mabuza Langalibalele H.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Lower limb fractures result in a greater physical impact on health than those in other parts of the body. Open tibial fractures are orthopaedic emergencies necessitating prompt treatment. A study was conducted to determine the clinical profiles and outcomes of patients treated for open tibial fractures using the external fixator method.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study on 101 patients who had been treated with the external fixator method for open tibial fractures from 1st January, 2014 to 31st December, 2015. Patient profiles included their baseline characteristics, risk factors, and injury mode. Clinical outcomes were sepsis, delayed union, and the number of days to the union. Correlation tests were conducted to establish associations. All statistical tests were performed on SAS, Release 9.3 (2015). Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results:

Most respondents were male (87; 86.1%) with a secondary level of education (83; 82.2%). The most frequent modes of injury were motor-vehicle accidents (MVAs) (34; 33.7%) and assault (21; 20.8%). MVA (27; 26.7%) resulted in the highest complications. Osteomyelitis and pin traction sepsis accounted for 19/65 (29%) of all complications. Delayed union was mostly observed among respondents who smoked cigarettes, i.e., 49/63 (29%).

Conclusion:

MVA, PVA, gunshot, and assault constituted the highest proportions. Cigarette smoking was the risk factor with the highest proportion and was related to delayed union and non-union. Osteomyelitis and pin tract sepsis occurred in high proportions. Behavioural change towards quitting smoking and antibiotic coverage should be advocated to benefit patients with open tibial fractures.
Reallocation of Cameroon’s Public Health Budget from the Central Administration to Regional Level: Is it Worthwhile?
Authors: Forbinake Ndung Ako , Enongene Julius Mekolle , Nchinjoh Sangwe Clovis , Orock-Benem Vanessa Tabe , Engelberg Sydney , Chinitz David
Published: April 2023

Cameroon is a “decentralized unitary State” but is financially centralized. Its health sector faces inequities in financial resource allocation from central to peripheral levels generating significant disparities in healthcare delivery at the regional, district, and health facility levels. Despite a 68.3% increase in national financial allocation and 100% budget execution, the resource allocation inequities persist, with less than 50% of the resources allocated to integrated health centers reaching the intended benefactors.

The main questions analysed are: why are most of the finances allocated to the Central level, and what current structures can be adapted to effectively “decentralize” the financial resources? The advantages of decentralizing health systems include increased efficiency, quality of health services, promotion of accountability and local governance of the health system, and 'shock-absorber' effects. Recommendations on making this budget reallocation sustainable in Cameroonian will eventually come through organizational change and the use of needs-based reallocation formulae to ensure objectivity and dilute subjectivity. Central Administration to act as a regulator with an ombudsman from the National Anti-Corruption Commission or the office of the Public Independent Conciliator to prevent financial leakages at the district and regional health levels.

A close-to-ground governance system will help resolve staff absenteeism, motivation, career management, and retention issues. Centralization is needed to steer national policies, but decentralization will prevent embezzlement and corruption, avoid supply delays, promote Universal Health Coverage application, local autonomy tailored to the specific needs of different health districts and assist in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 and other health-related SDGs.
Object Detection and Tracking: Exploring a Deep Learning Approach and Other Techniques
Authors: Oluyemi Owoeye Samuel , Durodola Folasade , Odeyemi Jethro
Published: April 2023

Object detection and tracking have a wide range of uses, for example, in
security and surveillance systems to deter and investigate crimes, for traffic monitoring,
and for communication through video sharing. In a smart city, data is continuously
being obtained through various means. In terms of video data, the data collected
through cameras and other digital devices need to be analyzed to derive useful
information from it. Hence, the concept of object detection and tracking comes into
play. This chapter looks into developing various frameworks for object detection and
tracking in the context of video data. We will be working with a database of 1,939
pencil images. These images will be used to train a neural network that performs image
classification tasks. Various object detection methods are implemented such as
Convolution Neural Network (CNN) image classification, Canny edge detection, object
detection using the Haar Cascade classifier, and background subtraction. The
experiments are carried out with Python programming language, TensorFlow, and
OpenCV library.
Diagnosis of Cancer
Authors: Alelyani Fayez , Abdulhamid Seday Anas , Al-Toub Mashael , Alwatban Adnan
Published: April 2023

Cancer has a higher chance of being cured when it is diagnosed, detected, and treated early. Diagnosis of cancer in its early stages also results in the highest chance of survival with the improvement of lifestyle of cancer patients. A comprehensive physical exam and a full family medical history are needed before a cancer diagnosis can be made. Self-examination or other screening procedures will normally detect visible forms of cancers, such as melanoma and breast cancer, before the condition progresses. However, several forms of other types of cancer are discovered and diagnosed after disease development and severe signs have already occurred. This chapter discusses the diagnostic approaches that are often utilized to aid in the diagnosis of cancer.
Attitudes of Saudi female students toward the use of mobile devices in learning computer programming: An empirical study
Authors: Alanazi Afrah , Li Alice , Soh Ben
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study is to explore the attitudes of Saudi Arabian female students toward mobile learning approaches pertaining to their learning experiences. Our methodology involved two groups–one that was subjected to a traditional teaching approach and the other (treatment group) that was subjected to a teaching approach with an intervention involving the ViLLE visualization tool during a semester in a programming class. We employed the Mobile Learning for Computer Programming framework to evaluate the perception of the use of mobile devices pertaining to the learning experience of female programming students in Saudi Arabia. Overall, the treatment group had positive attitudes toward mobile-based learning. This approach can promote engagement in learning systems, enhance the learning experience, improve the quality of learning, and help explain learner behavior.
A Medical Assistive Robot for Telehealth Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Development and Usability Study in an Isolation Ward (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Ruohan , Lv Honghao , Lu Zhangli , Huang Xiaoyan , Wu Haiteng , Xiong Junjie , Yang Geng
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the mental and emotional well-being of patients, family members, and health care workers. Patients in the isolation ward may have psychological problems due to long-term hospitalization, the development of the epidemic, and the inability to see their families. A medical assistive robot (MAR), acting as an intermediary of communication, can be deployed to address these mental pressures.

OBJECTIVE

CareDo, a MAR with telepresence and teleoperation functions, was developed in this work for remote health care. The aim of this study was to investigate its practical performance in the isolation ward during the pandemic.

METHODS

Two systems were integrated into the CareDo robot. For the telepresence system, a web real-time communications solution is used for the multiuser chat system and a convolutional neural network is used for expression recognition. For the teleoperation system, an incremental motion mapping method is used for operating the robot remotely. A clinical trial of this system was conducted at First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University.

RESULTS

During the clinical trials, tasks such as video chatting, emotion detection, and medical supplies delivery were performed via the CareDo robot. Seven voice commands were set for performing system wakeup, video chatting, and system exiting. Durations from 1 to 3 seconds of common commands were set to improve voice command detection. The facial expression was recorded 152 times for a patient in 1 day for the psychological intervention. The recognition accuracy reached 95% and 92.8% for happy and neutral expressions, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients and health care workers can use this MAR in the isolation ward for telehealth care during the COVID-19 pandemic. This can be a useful approach to break the chains of virus transmission and can also be an effective way to conduct remote psychological intervention.
Mobile Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Bipolar Disorder: Microrandomized Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Cochran Amy , Maronge Jacob M , Victory Amanda , Hoel Sydney , McInnis Melvin G , Thomas Emily BK
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Mobile interventions promise to fill in gaps in care with their broad reach and flexible delivery.

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to investigate delivery of a mobile version of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for individuals with bipolar disorder (BP).

METHODS

Individuals with BP (n=30) participated in a 6-week microrandomized trial. Twice daily, participants logged symptoms in the app and were repeatedly randomized (or not) to receive an ACT intervention. Self-reported behavior and mood were measured as the energy devoted to moving toward valued domains or away from difficult emotions and with depressive d and manic m scores from the digital survey of mood in BP survey (digiBP).

RESULTS

Participants completed an average of 66% of in-app assessments. Interventions did not significantly impact the average toward energy or away energy but did significantly increase the average manic score m (P=.008) and depressive score d (P=.02). This was driven by increased fidgeting and irritability and interventions focused on increasing awareness of internal experiences.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the study do not support a larger study on the mobile ACT in BP but have significant implications for future studies seeking mobile therapy for individuals with BP.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04098497; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04098497
Radiology Residents’ Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Chen Yanhua , Wu Ziye , Wang Peicheng , Xie Linbo , Yan Mengsha , Jiang Maoqing , Yang Zhenghan , Zheng Jianjun , Zhang Jingfeng , Zhu Jiming
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming various fields, with health care, especially diagnostic specialties such as radiology, being a key but controversial battleground. However, there is limited research systematically examining the response of “human intelligence” to AI.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to comprehend radiologists’ perceptions regarding AI, including their views on its potential to replace them, its usefulness, and their willingness to accept it. We examine the influence of various factors, encompassing demographic characteristics, working status, psychosocial aspects, personal experience, and contextual factors.

METHODS

Between December 1, 2020, and April 30, 2021, a cross-sectional survey was completed by 3666 radiology residents in China. We used multivariable logistic regression models to examine factors and associations, reporting odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs.

RESULTS

In summary, radiology residents generally hold a positive attitude toward AI, with 29.90% (1096/3666) agreeing that AI may reduce the demand for radiologists, 72.80% (2669/3666) believing AI improves disease diagnosis, and 78.18% (2866/3666) feeling that radiologists should embrace AI. Several associated factors, including age, gender, education, region, eye strain, working hours, time spent on medical images, resilience, burnout, AI experience, and perceptions of residency support and stress, significantly influence AI attitudes. For instance, burnout symptoms were associated with greater concerns about AI replacement (OR 1.89; P<.001), less favorable views on AI usefulness (OR 0.77; P=.005), and reduced willingness to use AI (OR 0.71; P<.001). Moreover, after adjusting for all other factors, perceived AI replacement (OR 0.81; P<.001) and AI usefulness (OR 5.97; P<.001) were shown to significantly impact the intention to use AI.

CONCLUSIONS

This study profiles radiology residents who are accepting of AI. Our comprehensive findings provide insights for a multidimensional approach to help physicians adapt to AI. Targeted policies, such as digital health care initiatives and medical education, can be developed accordingly.