bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plant enzyme based biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and Assessment of their antimicrobial properties
Authors: Das Manoja , Acharya Diptikanta , Satapathy Sagarika 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Enzyme is a biological substance that acts as a catalyst in cellular metabolism without itself being altered in the reaction process. Enzyme α-amylase was extracted from germinated green gram (mungo bean, Vigna radiata) using 0.1 M acetate buffer and had been confirmed by the spectrophotometric method. The silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution of concentration of 100 mM was mixed with the enzyme in the ratio of 2:1 and kept at room temperature (280 C) for the period of 24 h to facilitate the bioconversion process. The colour of the mixture aliquot was colourless and after incubation it was transformed to brown colour solution. The optimum transformation period was found at 5 ½ h. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by instrumental analysis like UV – Vis spectrophotometer, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The stability of synthesised nanoforms were ascertained by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic study. The synthesized particles have been showed the absorption maxima (ʎmax) at 445 nm. A Photograph of TEM showed that the synthesized nanoparticles were spherical in shape and the average size was recorded as 36 nm. XRD analysis of the particles indicated that the particles were more or less homogenous in structure. The mixture of silver nitrate (AgNO3) and enzyme in the ratio of 2:1 manufactured a high number and stabilized the form of the nano metal and therefore the same blend solution was accustomed in future experiments. The aqueous solution having little alkaline (pH 8.3) favours maximum synthesis of nanoparticles. During the conversion process, the silver ion (Ag +) present in aqueous solution is transformed into a silver nano structure (nano Ag0). The prepared silver nanoparticles possess antimicrobial activity against three studied microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Micrococcus luteus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The investigation concludes that the α-amylase enzyme present in the germinating green gram seed has potency for bioconversion of silver nitrate to silver nanoforms and the synthesized nanoparticles have antagonist efficaciousness against all studied microorganisms. It also threw light on the therapeutic prospectus of silver nanoparticles.
Potential risk assessment of the large hydropower station dumpsite using numerical simulation: A case study in Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Li Dong-dong , Liu Han-dong , Wang Zhong-fu , Chen Feng-lan , Li Xiao-chao 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Engineering construction (such as water conservancy project, road engineering, and so on) in mountain areas bring mass of waste soil and rock fragment, whose stability is critical to the ecological environment and the safe operation of engineering facilities. The biggest waste dump of the Pumped Storage Power Station Project in Hunyuan County, Shanxi Province, China, with a volume of 7 million m³ and a maximum height of 240 m, is to be located at the origin of Mahua Valley. To assess the potential risk of the waste dump, reconnaissance, geomorphological analysis was undertaken to provide basic data. The potential failure area and volume was determined utilizing Flac3D depending on strength reduction method. The kinematic process after failure was presented by Particle flow code. The results showed that the factor of safety of the waste dump under heavy precipitation was 1.15, less than the stability requirement of slope in hydropower station, and the potential failure volume was about 4.8 million m³. Our simulation results clearly display scenario-based debris mass run-out paths and indicate that, considering the worst cases scenario, the ground ventilation platform and ventilation tunnel exit on the right bank of the gully might be destroyed rapidly by landslide debris. Besides, the debris flow would accumulate at the gully mouth, and even run into the lower reservoir. These results are useful information for decision support and future hazard assessment of such engineering project.
Diatom and macroinvertebrate communities dynamic: a co-occurrence pattern analysis on plastic substrates
Authors: Taurozzi Davide , Cesarini Giulia , Scalici Massimiliano 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Wetlands are habitats that provide numerous ecosystem services, but are often understudied and threatened by anthropogenic pollution, particularly plastic pollution. Macroplastics are a significant component of plastic litter that have high biological impacts but are often understudied. Previous studies have highlighted negative impacts on biota, but there is a lack of information about the communities of micro and macro organisms that settle on macroplastic litter. In this context, we investigated the colonization patterns and community structures of diatoms and macroinvertebrates on virgin substrates composed of two different plastic polymers, polystyrene and polyethylene (PET), located at two different depths in a protected wetland in Central Italy over a period of 10 months. The results show that diatom community is not highly structured by competitive forces and aggregation patterns emerges. In contrast, macroinvertebrate community appears to be randomly structured, without the presence of patterns following specific assembly rules. Randomness in macroinvertebrates assemblages could highlight the presence of different niches available for settlement of different taxa. Combined matrix analyses show that diatoms and macroinvertebrates co-occur, and their community assemblages are sometimes structured, while they appeared to be randomly assembled at other times. Whenever non-randomness of diatoms and macroinvertebrates co-occurrences was detected, it suggested aggregation. Moreover, the possible predatory relationship between different macroinvertebrates taxa should be investigated, as it could reveal important scenarios in the establishment of macroinvertebrate structured communities on plastic litter, including taxa that exploit different ecological niches. This could lead to an enrichment of the biological community within areas impacted by plastics.
Insulin Resistance in Multiple Organs and Systems
Authors: Andrade Luís Jesuino de Oliveira , de Oliveira Gabriela Correia Matos , Bittencourt Alcina Maria Vinhaes , de Oliveira Luís Matos 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Insulin resistance (IR) is a biological response to insulin stimulation in target tissues. IR alters glucose metabolism, resulting in increased insulin production by beta-cells. The primary condition associated with IR is obesity, which is often caused by environmental factors, particularly diet.Objective: To describe IR in various organs and present a signaling pathway project.Methods: The PubMed database was used to search for IR review publications. The referenced data for the signaling pathway were selected by aggregating references from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. A signaling pathway was designed based on IR research manuscripts, which show various mechanisms involved. The KEGG server was used to explore protein-protein interactions and create a signaling pathway diagram. The signaling path was mapped using PathVisio software, adapted to the model of the KEGG PATHWAY Database: https://www.genome.jp/pathway/map04930.Results: Articles featuring the terms “insulin resistance” and “signaling pathway” were selected from the PubMed database. Based on validated research articles, well-founded pathways were chosen and a representative description of these pathways was achieved. Reproduction contigs from the KEGG database projected the signaling pathway of biomolecules leading to IR. Thus, the interaction between multiple mechanisms releases factors that contribute to the development of IR.Conclusion: The interaction between multiple mechanisms and molecular interactions are important factors in the development of IR in various organs and systems.
Interaction of Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor, Exercise, and Fear
Extinction: Implications for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Antolasic Emily J. , Jaehne Emily J. , van den Buuse Maarten 
Published: July 2023

Abstract:
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays an important role in brain development,
neural plasticity, and learning and memory. The Val66Met single-nucleotide polymorphism is a common
genetic variant that results in deficient activity-dependent release of BDNF. This polymorphism
and its impact on fear conditioning and extinction, as well as on symptoms of post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD), have been of increasing research interest over the last two decades. More recently, it
has been demonstrated that regular physical activity may ameliorate impairments in fear extinction and
alleviate symptoms in individuals with PTSD via an action on BDNF levels and that there are differential
responses to exercise between the Val66Met genotypes. This narrative literature review first describes
the theoretical underpinnings of the development and persistence of intrusive and hypervigilance
symptoms commonly seen in PTSD and their treatment. It then discusses recent literature on the
involvement of BDNF and the Val66Met polymorphism in fear conditioning and extinction and its involvement
in PTSD diagnosis and severity. Finally, it investigates research on the impact of physical
activity on BDNF secretion, the differences between the Val66Met genotypes, and the effect on fear
extinction learning and memory and symptoms of PTSD.
Current Leads and Marketed Formulations for an Effective Treatment of
Fungal Infections
Authors: Basak Trambak , Goyal Amit K. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract:
Severe antifungal infections, especially opportunistic fungal infections, are increasing tremendously
in immunocompromised patients. This is basically because more patients enduring neoplastic
diseases lead to the wide use of chemotherapy, thus causing immunosuppression. Patients with
HIV infection, burns, pancreatitis and neutropenia are also amenable to fungal infections. Out of a
plethora of antifungal drugs applied, Amphotericin B, being a broad-spectrum antimicrobial drug, has
been the gold standard treatment for a diverse variety of fungal infections since the 1950s and visceral
leishmaniasis since the 1960s. However, Amphotericin B has major constraints of poor bioavailability
and kidney toxicity, due to which newer antifungal compounds are being used. This article discusses
fungal and parasitic diseases and formulations for treating these ailments.
TAXATION AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO ENCOURAGE IDLE LAND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Abd Hamid Muhamad Norfiqiri , Md Yunus Norhidayah , Berahim Nur , Zainudin Ainur Zaireen , Mohd Ali Hishamuddin , Najib Muhammad , Razali Mohamed , Mohd Yusoff Nurul Syakima , Md Azmi Fatin Afiqah 
Published: July 2023

The topic of idle land, especially in agriculture, seems to have a consequence on both agricultural production and land utilization. Malaysia's government normally takes a diplomatic approach to idle land concerns, providing financial assistance, facilities, and agricultural input to urge landowners to develop the idle lands. Actual studies on the global scale, however, indicated that certain countries took a tough stance by implementing the idle land tax. Hence, the aim of the research is to look into nine countries' idle land taxation implementation. Secondary data were analysed using comparative and thematic analysis to examine the key aspects of idle land tax application. The study identified five fundamental aspects that are critical to the application of idle land taxes. Based on these findings, Malaysia now has new options for idle land enforcement that it may adopt in the future if diplomatic strategies no longer have an influence on Malaysia's approaches to overcome idle agriculture land issues.
Prescribing Patterns of Oral Antibiotics and Isotretinoin for Acne in a Colorado Hospital System: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Adelman Madeline J , Sivesind Torunn E , Weber Isaac , Bosma Grace , Hochheimer Camille , Karimkhani Chante , Schilling Lisa M , Barbieri John S , Dellavalle Robert P 
Published: July 2023

Background
Guidelines established by the American Academy of Dermatology recommend oral antibiotics as first-line therapy for mild, moderate, and severe acne. However, it is recommended to minimize the duration of oral antibiotic use, and there is increasing support for other systemic agents for acne.

Objective
We sought to characterize the use of oral antibiotics and isotretinoin for the treatment of acne in the pediatric and young adult population aged 10 through 20 years and the adult population aged 21 to 45 years from 2011 to 2019.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective, observational cohort study using electronic data from the enterprise data warehouse of the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and its affiliates, with data in the format of the Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics (OHDSI) Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) common data model. Categorical values (sex, race, and ethnicity) were compared using chi-square tests, and continuous variables (age) were compared using 2-tailed t tests.

Results
Our cohort of 15,704 patients was composed of mostly White (12,776/15,704, 81.4%), non-Hispanic or Latino (13,307/15,704, 84.7%), and female (11,093/15,704, 70.6%) patients. Among the 4605 male patients in the eligible cohort, 1810 (39%) received an oral antibiotic treatment, in comparison to 3109 (28%) of the 11,093 eligible women (P<.001). Among the 4605 men who were eligible for treatment with isotretinoin in this population, 988 (21.5%) received a course of isotretinoin, compared to only 10.4% (1159/11,093) eligible women (P<.001). Male patients were 1.67 times more likely to have received an antibiotic prescription (odds ratio [OR] 1.67, 95% CI 1.55-1.79) and over twice as likely to have received an isotretinoin prescription (OR 2.34, 95% CI 2.13-2.57) than female patients.

Conclusions
Minocycline was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic for the treatment of acne in this study cohort. From 2015 to 2019, there was no significant change in the number of antibiotic prescriptions over time. Men were significantly more likely to receive both oral antibiotics and isotretinoin than female patients. Multiple factors could be contributing to this discrepancy, including the burden of iPLEDGE, additional systemic treatment options for female patients, and the difference in acne severity across sexes. We could not determine the difference in severity of acne between male and female patients in our cohort, and further research is needed to ascertain the variation across sexes.
Isotretinoin Use in Transmasculine Patients and Its Implication on Chest Masculinization Surgery: Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Strock Daniel , Sivesind Torunn E , Dellavalle Robert P , Mundinger Gerhard S 
Published: July 2023

Background
Acne often worsens in transmasculine patients who are on prolonged testosterone therapy. Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid used in the treatment of severe or refractory cases of acne, but it has the potential to cause delayed wound healing. Transmasculine patients may potentially be prescribed treatment for acne with isotretinoin while also planning to undergo chest masculinization surgery.

Objective
This scoping review aims to determine whether isotretinoin has a negative impact on postoperative healing in transmasculine patients undergoing chest masculinization surgery.

Methods
A scoping review was performed using the PubMed and Ovid databases. A total of 16 publications were selected for inclusion.

Results
Acne tends to peak in transmasculine patients 6 months after initiation of testosterone treatment. Severe cases can be treated with isotretinoin; however, acne may recur once treatment is discontinued, given ongoing hormone therapy. There is little to no evidence in the medical literature regarding perioperative use of isotretinoin specifically among transmasculine patients undergoing chest masculinization surgery. In general, however, recent studies have found no evidence of increased hypertrophic scars or keloids in patients taking isotretinoin.

Conclusions
Further studies are required to strengthen the current evidence that suggests that isotretinoin does not need to be discontinued before or after incisional or excisional surgeries, including chest masculinization surgery in transmasculine patients.
COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake and its Determinants: Findings From A Web-Based Survey in Nigeria
Authors: Tijani Bosun , Filani Temi , Oluyide Olatunji , Odis Adaora , Ezike Emmanuella , Adewemimo Adefemi , Benjamin Asuku , Joseph Isa , Sagar Maissa , Akinreni Temidayo 
Published: July 2023

COVID-19 vaccination was identified as a major effort to curb the global challenge of this highly infectious disease. However, the coverage rate is an essential factor that decides successful vaccination. As vaccines are being distributed around the world, there is a debate on their acceptability, accessibility, and barriers to receiving them despite the availability of the vaccine. This study was conducted to assess the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccination, and its determinants among internet users in Nigeria. An online survey was conducted between February and April 2022 using a semi-structured questionnaire. It was set up using Google Forms and data were collected via online method. Relevant data collected were analyzed using STATA version 14. A total of 378 respondents participated in the study, with a mean age of 32 years (± 8.50) years. Majority of the respondents are young adults between the age range of 25-35 years. 74.9% of the respondents are Christians. All the respondents have heard of the COVID-19 vaccine while about one-third of them had taken the COVID-19 vaccine (62.2%). The uptake of the vaccine had a significant positive association with the level of education and level of monthly income (p =0.004 and 0.002 respectively) aORs =0.386, 95% (CI=0.184-0.810). Two out of three Nigerian respondents had taken the coronavirus vaccine. However, the long distance to get to vaccination centers was the leading barrier to vaccine uptake. Hence, this calls for key stakeholders to ensure that COVID-19 vaccination centers are close to residents in Nigeria and for leaders at all levels to be involved in public education based on sound evidence and the discouragement of the spread of conspiracy theories to eliminate the negative associated factors will reduce vaccine hesitancy and thereby increase COVID-19 vaccination uptake in Nigeria.
The impact of organizational resilience on the quality of public services: Application of structural equation modeling
Authors: Butkus Mindaugas , Schiuma Giovanni , Bartuševičienė Ilona , Rakauskiene Ona Grazina , Volodzkiene Lina , Dargenyte-Kacileviciene Laura 
Published: July 2023

Research background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, public sector entities encountered extraordinary difficulties in maintaining the delivery of public services. They were ill-equipped to operate in the unpredictable circumstances of the pandemic, causing a significant impact on the accessibility and quality of public services. This scenario also highlighted the importance of the resilience of the public sector, which entails an organization's capacity to function in a crisis setting and uncover opportunities that might not have been evident during normal circumstances.
Purpose of the article: This study aims to assess development trends within public sector resilience and their impact on the quality of public services. As resilience is realized through a three-phase prism - i.e., Planning, Adaptation, and Enhanced Learning - we hypothesize that Adaptation is endogenously interrelated with Planning and positively affects Enhanced Learning, which in turn positively impacts Service Quality.
Methods: Two successive surveys were carried out to examine the links between organizational resilience and Service Quality in the public sector. The first involved interviewing 401 senior managers of the organizations that provide public services in Lithuania to assess their level of organizational resilience. The second survey involved questioning individuals aged 18 and above who had used the services of the previously surveyed organizations. In total, 3,609 public service users were interviewed to gather data on Service Quality. Structural equation modeling was performed to analyze the data collected.
Findings & value added: The results of structural equation modeling revealed that Enhanced Learning positively and significantly affects Service Quality. The findings of this study suggest that the bounce-back stage of organizational resilience, i.e., Adaptation, indirectly affects Service Quality through the bounce-forward stage, i.e., Enhanced Learning. Thus, Enhanced Learning acts both as an accelerator of Service Quality and as a moderator of the effect that other stages of organizational resilience have on Service Quality. The primary contribution of this article is its discovery that Service Quality develops from Enhanced Learning, implying that the optimal approach to service provision is based on both newly acquired knowledge and experience gained during challenging times. This enables organizations to transform their service delivery in response to the realities of changing circumstances, thereby creating opportunities to prepare for future challenges from the standpoint of a new equilibrium.