bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wastewater surveillance for antibiotic resistance genes during the late 2020 SARS-CoV-2 peak in two different populations
Authors: Philo Sarah E. , Monteiro Sílvia , Fuhrmeister Erica R. , Santos Ricardo , Meschke John Scott 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a rise in resistant infections after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic started. How and if the pandemic contributed to antibiotic resistance in the larger population is not well understood. Wastewater treatment plants are good locations for environmental surveillance because they can sample entire populations. This study aimed to validate methods used for COVID-19 wastewater surveillance for bacterial targets and to understand how rising COVID-19 cases from October 2020 to February 2021 in Portugal (PT) and King County, Washington contributed to antibiotic resistance genes in wastewater. Primary influent wastewater was collected from two treatment plants in King County and five treatment plants in PT, and hospital effluent was collected from three hospitals in PT. Genomic extracts were tested with the quantitative polymerase chain reaction for antibiotic resistance genes conferring resistance against antibiotics under threat. Random-effect models were fit for log-transformed gene abundances to assess temporal trends. All samples collected tested positive for multiple resistance genes. During the sampling period, mecA statistically significantly increased in King County and PT. No statistical evidence exists of correlation between samples collected in the same Portuguese metro area.
Investigation of aquifer storage properties and groundwater contamination risk potential using an electrical resistivity technique: a sedimentary environment case study
Authors: Ekanem Aniekan Martin , George Nyakno J. , Thomas Jewel E. 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

There are growing worries regarding sufficient supplies of safe water in Obot Akara and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State. Thus, this study aims to investigate aquifer storage properties and contamination risk potential using electrical resistivity techniques in the two counties. The counties are shown to comprise 3–4 lithological successions of sandy and gravelly layers with slight clay intercalations. Groundwater abstraction takes place in the third and fourth layers in the area at depths between 5.4 and 121.4 m. The results demonstrate that the aquifer's prolificacy requires a specific yield larger than 0.15 or a specific retention less than 0.15. 94% of the study region is revealed to have good groundwater potential for the sustainability of water boreholes. Furthermore, the results show that 87.5% of the study region has weak/poor protection while 12.5% has moderate protection against infiltrating contaminants. In terms of susceptibility potential rating, 21.9% of the area has a moderate rating while the remaining 78.1% has a low rating. The identified areas with weak/poor protection and moderate susceptibility are adjudged to have moderate/high groundwater contamination risk potential. These findings provide valuable guidelines for formulating sustainable groundwater utilization and management strategies in the area.
Encapsulating Rhodamine 6G in Oxidized Sodium Alginate Polymeric Hydrogel for Photodynamically Inactivating Cancer Cells
Authors: Pallavi Pragya , Girigoswami Koyeli , Gowtham Pemula , Harini Karthick , Thirumalai Anbazhagan , Girigoswami Agnishwar 
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
As cancer therapy progresses, challenges remain due to the inherent drawbacks
of conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, gene therapy, radiation therapy, and surgical removal.
Moreover, due to their associated side effects, conventional treatments affect both cancerous and normal cells,
making photodynamic therapy (PDT) an attractive alternative.

Methods:
As a result of its minimal toxicity, exceptional specificity, and non-invasive characteristics,
PDT represents an innovative and highly promising cancer treatment strategy using photosensitizers (PSs) and
precise wavelength excitation light to introduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the vicinity of cancer cells.

Results:
Poor aqueous solubility and decreased sensitivity of Rhodamine 6G (R6G) prevent its use as a photosensitizer
in PDT, necessitating the development of oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) hydrogelated nanocarriers
to enhance its bioavailability, targeted distribution, and ROS-quantum yield. The ROS quantum yield increased
from 0.30 in an aqueous environment to 0.51 when using alginate-based formulations, and it was further
enhanced to 0.81 in the case of OSA.

Conclusion:
Furthermore, the nanoformulations produced fluorescent signals suitable for use as cellular
imaging agents, demonstrating contrast-enhancing capabilities in medical imaging and showing minimal toxicity.
Comparative Study of Denoising and Segmentation Techniques for Accurate
Brain Tumor Detection in MRI
Authors: Rohilla Saransh , Jain Shruti 
Published: August 2024

Background:
Brain tumor incidence is on the rise each year, with more than 130 identified
types. Precise segmentation models play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors.
This study specifically investigates the utilization of diffusion-based denoising techniques and
thresholding methods for segmenting brain tumors from MRI images.

Objective:
The objective of this study is to examine and compare the efficacy of the Perona-malik
and Weickert diffusion techniques in denoising brain MRI images. Additionally, the study aims to
assess their performance in threshold-based segmentation of brain tumors. Moreover, it also aims to
evaluate the compatibility, benefits, and limitations of the Perona-Malik and Weickert diffusion
methods in the denoising of brain MRI images and the effect of denoising on segmentation.

Methods:
In this study, the Perona-Malik and Weickert diffusion methods are employed to denoise
brain MRI images. The denoised images are then subjected to thresholding using both binary and
fuzzy approaches, utilizing a triangular membership function. The performance of the diffusion techniques
is evaluated using metrics, such as Mean Square Error and Peak Signal to Noise Ratio. Additionally,
segmentation models are assessed using metrics such as Dice Similarity Coefficient, Jaccard
Similarity Coefficient, and Structural Similarity Measurement Index.

Results:
The Perona-Malik and Weickert diffusion methods exhibit compatibility with various types
of noise, each having its own set of advantages and limitations. The Weickert diffusion method excels
in preserving image structure and texture during thresholding.

Conclusion:
The study provides evidence for the effectiveness of diffusion-based denoising techniques
in segmenting brain tumors from MRI images. Specifically, the Weickert diffusion method
outperforms in preserving essential image characteristics during thresholding. Additionally, fuzzy
thresholding proves to be more successful in accurately segmenting brain tumors. These findings contribute
to the advancement of precise models for brain tumor segmentation, ultimately enhancing the
diagnosis and treatment of these tumors.
Role of non-coding RNAs in vulvar cancer
Authors: Mahdavizadeh Vahid , Harifi-Mood Mohammad Sadra , Samarghandian Saeed , Farkhondeh Tahereh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract:
Vulvar cancer is a rare disease of mostly premenstrual women. Although it is a rare disease,
vulvar cancer is on the rise among women of reproductive age. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)
are RNAs with more than 200 nucleotides that are not involved in the production of proteins.
LncRNAs are actively associated with disease progression in various diseases. However, although
the focus or literature on the role of lncRNAs in the progression of different cancers has
elucidated their pathophysiology at least partly, vulvar cancer has received much less attention.
The present study showed that the majority of lncRNAs studied so far are miRNAs. Some of these
miRNAs have been shown to be upregulated, while others have been shown to be downregulated
in vulvar cancer. Furthermore, some hypotheses have been introduced to explain the role of these
lncRNAs, including their role in targeting p53, HPV, and HMGA2. In this article, we reviewed
the role of lncRNAs in the progression, metastasis, development of chemoresistance, diagnosis,
and treatment of vulvar cancer.
A Comprehensive Review of Analytical Methods Developed for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Authors: Safdarali Ansari Mahzabin , Jha Lalit Lata , Patel Lakshamanbhai Dungarbhai 
Published: August 2024

:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are a key development in psychological
pharmacology and treatment. It has been demonstrated that serotonin (5-HT) has a
pharmacological role in a variety of anxiety- and mood-related conditions. Fluvoxamine, citalopram,
escitalopram, paroxetine, sertraline, and fluoxetine are the six primary SSRIs now
available in the United States for the treatment of depression and anxiety or mood-related disorders.
Despite having a different chemical structure, these compounds function in an analogous
fashion. The main mechanism by which SSRIs work is by preventing serotonin from being
reabsorbed presynaptically at the serotonin transporter, which raises serotonin at the
postsynaptic membrane, which is found in the serotonergic synapse. In order to ensure the effectiveness,
safety, and quality control of SSRIs in pharmaceutical formulations, it is crucial to
quantify them precisely. The present article provides an overview of the main analytical techniques
developed to evaluate SSRIs in different matrices. It covers both conventional and hyphenated
approaches and concentrates on the analytical methodologies developed to quantify
SSRIs. It offers a general overview of the methods that have been developed
and standardized for the evaluation of SSRIs in drug formulations and various matrices. It focuses
on the major components of SSRI analysis, such as the solvents used for analysis, chromatographic
column selections, detection wavelength, and validation parameters. It also discusses
various validation parameters, such as accuracy, precision, retention duration, maximum
absorbance wavelength (λmax), range, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantitation
(LOQ).
Determination of Mesalamine in Bulk and Suppository Dosage Forms through the Development and Validation of Stability- indicating RP-HPLC Method
Authors: Chaudhari Nilima Anil , Ranpise Nisharani Sudhakar 
Published: August 2024

Background:
In the current study, a simple and cost-effective stability-indicating
RP-HPLC method was developed and validated to estimate the mesalamine from both bulk and
pharmaceutical dosage forms.

Methods:
An isocratic HPLC method using a reverse phase HiQSilC18 column (250 x 4.6 mm,
5μm) and a mobile phase methanol: ammonium acetate buffer (90:10 v/v) were employed as
the mobile phase with a flow rate of 1 mL/min at 25°C. Detection was carried out at 305 nm,
and the injection volume was 20μl. The developed method was validated as per ICH Q2 guidelines.
Mesalamine has been subjected to various stress testing conditions, such as hydrolysis of
acid and base, thermal degradation, oxidation, and photolysis. Also, methods have been validated
with regard to linearity, accuracy, precision, and robustness.

Results:
The RT of mesalamine was determined to be 3.550 min ± 0.024 minutes, providing a
reliable marker for its identification. The method was found to be linear between 5-30 μg/mL
concentration with (R²) of 0.994. This demonstrated the method's ability to measure varying
concentrations of mesalamine accurately. Additionally, the percentage recovery of mesalamine
was approximately 100%, confirming the accuracy of the developed method. The parameters
for system suitability have also been found to be within acceptable limits. Force degradation
studies reinforced the method's selectivity and sensitivity in detecting mesalamine under various
degradation scenarios. Notably, mesalamine significantly degraded in an acidic environment.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, our proposed RP-HPLC method provides a sensitive, accurate, and
precise means of analyzing mesalamine in both bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms.
Ferulic Acid: A Review of Mechanisms of Action, Absorption, Toxicology, Application on Wound Healing
Authors: Werneck Cerqueira Ana Flávia Lawall , de Mello Brandão Humberto , Diniz Tavares Guilherme , Pereira Rodarte Mirian 
Published: August 2024

:
Ferulic acid is a widely distributed phenolic substance with diverse bioactive prop-erties, which has been widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Wounds are complex skin lesions to treat and their treatment is long and costly. This encourages the search for alternative treatments, especially in the area of bioactive substances of natural origin.

Aims:
This work aims to make a bibliographic survey on studies of the use of ferulic acid in the treatment of wounds.

Results:
The studies found show that ferulic acid acts through different mechanisms of action such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, collagen production, angiogenic, and re-epithelialization effects. These properties act synergistically in different stages of healing, which differentiates it from conventional treatments. In addition, ferulic acid has dermal absorption, low skin metabolism, and low toxicity.

Conclusion:
Studies in this area are recent and further research is needed to expand the possi-bilities and therapeutic efficiency of ferulic acid in wound healing.
Breakthrough Opportunities of Nanotheranostics in Psoriasis: From Pathogenesis to Management Strategy
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Kumar Prashant , Sharma Himanshu 
Published: August 2024

Background:
In this paper, we have discussed recent advances in our understanding of the aetiology of psoriasis, particularly as they relate to aryl hydrocarbon receptors in DCs, Langerhans cells, macrophages, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathways, and dermal vascular endothelial cells. Here, we have shown that the ability to target specific cellular and molecular components of psoriasis pathogenesis with nanoscale precision using phos-phodiesterase 4 inhibitors represents a transformative opportunity to address the complex nature of this dermatological condition.

Objective:
In this review, we have examined the molecular mechanisms behind the pathogenic features of psoriasis and new treatments being tested in clinical settings. There is research being done on new treatments created in the last ten years. This field highlights the advantages of nan-otechnological technologies as cutting-edge candidates for drug delivery systems in psoriasis and other inflammatory chronic skin disorders.

Future Developments:
Nanotechnology-based treatments currently under study show good effi-cacy and low side effect profiles. However, long-term prospective trials are required to demon-strate long-term safety and effectiveness. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors, Janus kinase inhibitors, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, combinations of vitamin D3 derivatives and corticoster-oids, and coal tar formulations are some of the newer topical treatments for psoriasis.

Conclusion:
The psoriasis treatment continues to involve conventional medications (i.e., medi-cines that are generally acknowledged as either normal therapy or outdated remedies), whether used topically or orally. Nonetheless, we are starting to see initiatives to create pharmaceuticals and biosimilars with better therapeutic results, fewer side effects, and greater efficacy
Comparisons of Various Anthropometric Indices for Incident Hypertension in Military Young Adults: The CHIEF Cohort Study
Authors: Tsai Kun-Zhe , Lin Yen-Chen , Huang Chen-Ming , Yang Kai-Ti , Chen Han-Hsing , Wang Hui-Shang , Lin Gen-Min 
Published: August 2024

Aim:
The study aimed to compare the predictive capabilities of the traditional anthropometric
indices with the novel anthropometric indices for incident hypertension.

Background:
Some novel anthropometric indices, e.g., the Body Roundness Index (BRI) and A
Body Shape Index (ABSI) have been associated with prevalent hypertension. There are a few
cohort studies that have examined the association of the novel anthropometric indices with newonset
hypertension in young adults.

Methods:
This study included 2,448 military male and female young adults, aged 18-39 years,
free of hypertension at baseline in Taiwan; they were followed for incidence of hypertension
from 2014 till the end of 2020. Blood Pressure (BP) in mmHg was measured twice and averaged
to verify hypertension, which was defined as systolic BP ≥130 and/or diastolic BP ≥80 or
on antihypertensive medication therapy in each annual health examination. Anthropometric indices
included the Body Mass Index (BMI) defined as the weight (kg)/height squared (m2),
Waist Girth (WC) in cm, the Waist-to-height Ratio (WHtR), the BRI defined as 364.2 - 365.5 ×
{1 – [(WC/2π)/(0.5 × height)]2}0.5, as well as ABSI defined as WC/(BMI2/3 × height1/2). Multiple
Cox regression analysis and Area Under the Curve (AUC) of the Receiver of Operating Characteristics
(ROC) were utilized with adjustments for the baseline potential covariates to determine
the association and compare the performance of various indices for incident hypertension.

Results::
During a median follow-up period of 6.0 years, 920 new-onset hypertension cases
(37.6%) developed. Higher BMI, WC, BRI (per each 1-unit increase) and WHtR (per each 0.1-
unit increase) were associated with a greater risk of new-onset hypertension (Hazard Ratios
(HRs) and 95% confidence intervals: 1.060 (1.035-1.085), 1.021 (1.011-1.030), and 1.178
(1.077-1.288), respectively), whereas there was no association between ABSI and new-onset
hypertension. For the ROC, WC was observed with the greatest AUC for incident new-onset
hypertension (0.661 (0.638-0.683)), followed by BMI (0.650 (0.628-0.673)), while the ABSI
was found with the lowest AUC (0.544 (0.521-0.568)).

Conclusion:
Most of the anthropometric indices were associated with a higher risk of new-onset
hypertension among young adults, except for ABSI. In addition, this study has suggested the
traditional indices, such as WC and BMI, to be superior to the latest ones, e.g., BRI and ABSI,
for the prediction of new-onset hypertension.
Diagnostic Role of Tomography in Addison's Disease due to Adrenal Tuberculosis: A Case Report
Authors: Quiroz-Aldave Juan Eduardo , del Carmen Durand-Vásquez Maria , Gamarra-Osorio Elman Rolando , Zavaleta-Aldave Sara Elizabeth , Zavaleta-Aldave Alejandra Noemí , Rodriguez-Reyna Jorge , Quesquen-Garcia Cyntia Mileini , Concepcion-Urteaga Luis Alberto , Pecho-Silva Samuel , Rodriguez-Hidalgo Luis Alejandro , Paz-Ibarra Jose , Concepcion-Zavaleta Marcio Jose 
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
Adrenal tuberculosis remains the main cause of primary adrenal insufficiency
(PAI) in tuberculosis (TB)-prevalent regions. This case report details the presentation
of PAI due to adrenal TB, where the etiological diagnosis involves Abdominal Computed Tomography
(CT).

Case Report:
A 37-year-old Peruvian woman with a history of TB contact displayed symptoms
of adrenal insufficiency. PAI diagnosis was established, and CT imaging unveiled bilateral adrenal
enlargement with calcifications. Treatment with prednisone and anti-TB therapy led to
symptomatic improvement. Unfortunately, she succumbed to pneumonia after ten months of
follow-up.

Discussion:
Adrenal TB must be considered in endemic regions and in the presence of a TB
history. CT serves as a valuable diagnostic tool, particularly in settings with limited resources,
revealing adrenal enlargement and calcifications.

Conclusion:
In patients with PAI, epidemiological history of TB, and when a rapid biopsy is
not feasible, CT proves to be a valuable diagnostic method.
Development of Novel Women's Friendly Antifungal Microemulsion Loaded Gel for Vulvovaginal Infections
Authors: Dholakia Mansi S. , Patel Dinal , Patel Kruti A. , Joshi Parth R. , Bhatt Khushboo J. , Patel Mehul N. , Sorathia Kishor , Soni Tejal 
Published: August 2024

Aim:
The research was carried out to develop the microemulsion-loaded gel of curcu-min, alkylpolyglucoside, and tea tree oil to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis infection.

Methods:
Screening of oils, surfactants, and co-surfactants was done based on solubility studies and the construction of pseudo-ternary phase diagrams with curcumin. The microemulsion was characterized for globule size, zeta potential, viscosity, and thermodynamic stability. Ex-vivo studies were carried out using Franz diffusion cells. The antifungal activity of microemulsion-loaded hydrogel was evaluated using the cup plate method using Candida albicans ATCC 10231 in glucose yeast agar medium.

Results:
The selected micro-emulsion consisted of curcumin 35μg/mL, IPM+TTO (1:1) 0.1 mL, Milcoside 100 + Acconon MC 8-2 EP NF 0.6-0.3 mL, phosphate buffer pH 4 160 mL showed maximum thermodynamic stability and exhibited lowest particle size and highest intensity. The viscosity of microemulsion-loaded gel was 11.2 pa.s. The surface tension of the microemulsion was measured by tensiometer and was found to be 26.07 mN/m. Antimicrobial susceptibility test-ing assay was done according to NCCLs assay protocol, and the EC50 value of our formulation was found to be 0.4465 μg/mL. In-vitro drug release and ex-vivo permeation studies showed 67.9% release in 420 minutes and 83.02% release in 360 minutes, respectively. An in-vitro irrita-tion study concluded that there was no redness or irritation on goat mucosa.

Conclusion:
The texture analysis test showed adhesiveness at -172.46 g s at - 4.60 adhesive force, and the peak load was 13.40 g. The microemulsion-loaded gel formulation can be a promis-ing alternative to the marketed formulations available for vaginal yeast infections.
An Overview of the Pharmacological and Phytochemical Characteristics of Betula utilis
Authors: Saha Sunam , Kumar Yatin , Gupta Jeetendra Kumar , Kumar Shivendra , Singh Kuldeep , Singh Talever , Vij Deepali , Garg Khushal 
Published: August 2024

Background:
Betula utilis, commonly known as the Himalayan Birch or Bhojpatra, has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its diverse pharmaco-logical and phytochemical properties. This overview delves into the rich history and thera-peutic applications of Betula utilis from a TCM perspective. It discusses its role in promoting health and addressing various ailments, drawing on the wisdom of traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Furthermore, this abstract provides insights into the phytochemical constituents of Betula utilis, shedding light on the active compounds responsible for its medicinal benefits.

Methodology:
Information regarding the different species within the Betula genus was gath-ered through electronic searches utilizing platforms, such as Pubmed, SciFinder, Scirus, Google Scholar, JCCC@INSTIRC, and Web of Science. Additionally, a library search was conducted to locate articles published in peer-reviewed journals.

Result:
The bark of Betula utilis finds extensive usage in both Ayurveda and the Chinese system of medicine, where it is employed to address a range of health issues and medical conditions. These include applications in wound healing, skin sanitation, bronchitis, seizures, leprosy, blood disorders, and ear-related ailments. Moreover, the plant and its active components are frequently utilized for their anti-inflammatory, liver-protective, antimicrobial, and anti-tumor properties. This comprehensive review aims to provide a thorough examination of the available literature concerning the pharmacological and chemical characteristics of Betula utilis.