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The Catharanthus roseus plant was extracted and converted to nanoparticles in this work. The Soxhlet method extracted alkaloid compounds from the plant Catharanthus roseus and converted them to the nanoscale. Chitosan polymer was used as a linking material and converted to Chitosan nanoparticles using Sodium TriPolyPhosphate (STPP). The extracted alkaloids were linked with Chitosan nanoparticles CSNPs by maleic anhydride to get the final product (CSNPs- Linker- alkaloids). The synthesized (CSNPs- Linker- alkaloids) was characterized using SEM spectroscopy UV–Vis., Zeta Potential, and HPLC High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis shows that the Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) have small dimensions with regular spherical and nanotube shapes of a diameter range of (49 - 70) nm. The final product (CSNPs- Linker- alkaloids) has two shapes (spherical particles and tubes) in nano dimensions and is close to each other compared to normal Chitosan. The absorption peaks for Chitosan (CS), Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs), Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs), and maleic anhydride revealed that converting Chitosan to Chitosan nanoparticles and mixing it with the plant extract, led to an increase in the absorption value and wavelength range. Also, the appearance of two peaks at 222 nm and 402 nm nano instead of the peak of Chitosan at 289.9 nm. Zeta Potential results of CSNPs- Linker- alkaloids showed that the extract of the nano-alkaloids bound to chitosan nanoparticles carries a positive charge of 54.4 mV. This surface charge is essential in maintaining the colloidal solution's stability in its natural form without changing. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to estimate qualitative and quantitative plants extracted from Catharanthus roseus. Quantitative HPLC results show that Catharanthus roseus contains a good and acceptable concentration of Vinblastine, Vincristine, Vinorelbine, Vincamine, and Vintafolide (66.75, 242.91, 0.7, 83.77, 42.34) ppm respectively. The qualitative results show a good match for the influential groups of pure standard vincristine and alcoholic extract and dry powder of the Catharanthus roseus plant. The successful synthesis of nanoparticles from the Catharanthus roseus plant can be used in biosensors and biomedical applications.

Advances in the understanding and management of glenoid bone loss in shoulder instability have led to the development of alternative bony reconstruction techniques to the Latarjet using free bone grafts, but little is known about surgeon adoption of these procedures. This study sought to characterize surgeon variation in the use of glenoid bone reconstruction procedures for shoulder instability and ascertain reasons underlying procedure choice.A 9-question survey was created and distributed to 160 shoulder surgeons members of the PacWest Shoulder and Elbow Society, of whom 65 (41%) responded. The survey asked questions regarding fellowship training, years in practice, surgical volume, preferred methods of glenoid bone reconstruction, and reasons underlying treatment choice.All surgeons completed a fellowship, with an equal number of sports medicine fellowship-trained (46%) and shoulder and elbow fellowship-trained (46%) physicians. The majority had been in practice for at least 6 years (6-10 years: 25%;10 years: 59%). Most (78%) performed ≤10 glenoid bony reconstructions per year, and 66% indicated that bony procedures represented10% of their total annual shoulder instability case volume. The open Latarjet was the preferred primary reconstruction method (69%), followed by open free bone block (FBB) (22%), arthroscopic FBB (8%), and arthroscopic Latarjet (1%). Distal tibia allograft (DTA) was the preferred graft (74%) when performing an FBB procedure, followed by iliac crest autograft (18%), and distal clavicle autograft (6%). The top 5 reasons for preferring Latarjet over FBB were the sling effect (57%), the autologous nature of the graft (37%), its robust clinical evidence (22%), low cost (17%), and availability (11%). The top 5 reasons for choosing an FBB procedure were less anatomic disruption (58%), lower complication rate (21%), restoration of articular cartilage interface (16%), graft versatility (11%), and technical ease (11%). Only 20% of surgeons indicated always performing a bony glenoid reconstruction procedure in the noncontact athlete with less than 20% glenoid bone loss. However, that percentage rose to 62% when considering a contact athlete with the same amount of bone loss.Although open Latarjet continues to be the most popular glenoid bony primary reconstruction procedure in shoulder instability, nearly 30% of shoulder surgeons in the western United States have adopted FBB techniques as their preferred treatment modality--with DTA being the most frequently used graft. High-quality comparative clinical effectiveness research is needed to reduce decisional conflict and refine current evidence-based treatment algorithms.

Background: The introduction of novel hormonal agents (NHAs) such as abiraterone acetate (ABI) and enzalutamide (ENZ) for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) was an important milestone given their survival benefits, tolerability, and ease of administration relative to taxane chemotherapies. This descriptive study sought to describe the utilization trends of ABI and ENZ in patients with mCRPC in the early years after their approval in the province of Quebec in Canada. Methods: A retrospective population-based cohort was extracted from Quebec public healthcare administrative databases. The cohort included first-time users of NHAs (ABI or ENZ) from 2011 to 2016. The primary analyses aimed to describe the overall temporal trends (2011–2016) of NHA initiators by chemotherapy status (chemotherapy-naïve versus post-chemotherapy), and prescribing specialty (medical oncology versus urology versus others). Results: The cohort comprised 2183 patients, with 1562 (72%) in the chemotherapy-naïve group and 621 (28%) in the post-chemotherapy group. While the majority of patients were post-chemotherapy NHA initiators in 2012, this proportion decreased over time and accounted for only 13% of NHA initiators by the end of 2016. Medical oncologists were the most frequent prescribers of NHAs (upwards of 60%) throughout 2012 but fell to 45% by the end of 2016. Conversely, the proportion of prescriptions by urologists increased from 22% in 2012 to 42% in 2016. Conclusion: Over time, there was an increasing proportion of (1) patients who initiated NHAs without prior chemotherapy treatment, (2) NHA prescribing by urologists, and (3) ENZ users. Taken together, this implies that the introduction of NHAs has altered the management of mCRPC and urologists quickly adopted NHAs into their practice.

There are a growing number of opportunities within the field of orthopaedic surgery to address climate change and investigate ways to promote sustainability.Orthopaedic surgeons can take a proactive role in addressing climate change and its impacts within the areas of operating-room waste, carbon emissions from transportation and implant manufacturing, anesthetic gases, and water usage.Future studies are needed to further these initiatives on quantifying and decreasing environmental impact and furthering sustainable use of our resources.

The peri- and post-menopausal periods have been described as the “window of vulnerability” for the development of depressive symptoms that impair women activities and quality of life. The etiopathogenesis of these symptoms is multifactorial and may confer resistance to traditional antidepressants. Attention is now directed toward phytochemicals for their pleiotropic functions and safer profiles. This study investigated the possible perturbation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathways as an underlying mechanism of post-ovariectomy depression and highlighted the potential benefits of carnosic acid (CA) on the associated behavioral, biochemical, and histopathological alterations. Female Balb/c mice were randomly assigned to be sham-operated or ovariectomized (OVX). After 3 weeks, OVX mice received either a vehicle, CA (20 mg/kg/day), or tin protoporphyrin IX (SnPP-IX; a heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) inhibitor; 50 μmol/kg/day) for 3 weeks. Our findings revealed that OVX mice had depressive but not anxiety-like behavior. Suppressed Nrf2 and its downstream signaling, and augmented proinflammatory markers were observed in both the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. CA treatment alleviated depressive behavior, induced the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, thioredoxin-1, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and enhanced serotonin levels. CA also suppressed oxidative stress, reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS mRNA expression, and ameliorated OVX-induced histopathological changes. SnPP-IX aggravated post-OVX behavioral, neurobiochemical, and histological deteriorations, and reduced CA-protective effects. In conclusion, Nrf2/HO-1 signaling suppression and the associated proinflammatory state are key mechanisms in post-OVX depression. CA exerts multifaceted neuroprotection in OVX mice and represents a promising candidate for clinical evaluation as an antidepressant.

Purpose Vitamin A is an essential nutrient with vital biological functions. The present study investigated the effect of different doses of vitamin A palmitate at different time intervals on thyroid hormones and glycemic markers. Methods Male rats were administrated vitamin A palmitate at different doses (0, 0.7, 1.5, 3, 6, and 12 mg/kg, oral) and samples were collected at different time intervals of 2, 4, and 6 weeks. The levels of vitamin A, thyroid hormones (T3, T4, and TSH), deiodinases (Dio1 and Dio3), glycemic markers (blood insulin and fasting glucose levels, HOMA IR and HOMA β), retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) and the gluconeogenic enzyme phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) were measured. Results The findings demonstrated that long-term supplementation with high doses of vitamin A palmitate resulted in hypothyroidism (lower T3 and T4 levels and elevated TSH levels) as well as upregulation of Dio1 and Dio3 expression levels. This effect was associated with elevated glucose and insulin levels, enhanced HOMA IR, and decreased HOMA B index. In addition, prolonged vitamin A supplementation significantly increased RBP4 levels that upregulated the expression of PEPCK. Conclusion High doses of vitamin A supplementation increased the risk of hypothyroidism, modulated insulin sensitivity, and over a long period, increased the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus associated with oxidative stress and hepatitis.

Short Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes functionalized with OH group (MWCNTs-OH) were used to synthesize flexible MWCNTs networks. The MWCNTs suspension was synthesized using Benzoquinone (BQ) and N, N Dimethylformamide alcohol (DMF) in specific values and then deposited on filter paper by filtration from suspension (FFS) method. Polypyrrole (PPy) conductive polymer doped with metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) prepared using in-situ chemical polymerization method. To improve the properties of the MWCNTs networks, a coating layer of (PPy) conductive polymer, PPy:Ag nanoparticles, and PPy: Cu nanoparticles were applied to the network. The fabricated networks were characterized using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), UV-Vis. spectrometer, and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). XRD results revealed that the broadening for the (002) peak decreased after being coated with PPy and increased for the doped samples with MNPs, indicating on decrease in the crystalline size (MWCNTs/PPy) sample and increasing for doped ones with Ag and Cu MNPs. AFM images revealed that the surface roughness of the MWCNTs-OH network decreased after being coated with PPy, PPy: Ag, and PPy: Cu. With the help of AFM and XRD results, the CNTs contain 14 layers, while the inner and outer diameters were 18.2 nm and 27 nm receptivity. The UV-Vis. spectrum of MWCNTs showed several peaks, the highest in the 350 nm range. The coated of MWCNTs greatly affected the absorption spectrum, with many bands appearing between 300 to 450 nm and increasing the absorbance along the overall spectrum. For samples doped with Ag NPs and Cu NPs, a weak absorption peak of the plasmonic resonance frequency of the metallic nanoparticles. Analysis of Raman spectra shows that (ID/IG) ratios for all networks are less than one, which prove that the fabricated networks have few impurities and have good homogeneity. This work aimed to synthesize and characterize a flexible MWCNTs network and develop it by coated with a layer of conductive polymer and metallic nanoparticles for gas sensing application using quick and straightforward preparation methods.

ZnO nanostructures were synthesized by hydrothermal method at different temperatures and growth times. The effect of increasing the temperature on structural and optical properties of ZnO were analyzed and discussed. The prepared ZnO nanostructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis. absorption spectroscopy (UV–Vis.), Photoluminescence (PL), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In this work, hexagonal crystal structure prepared ZnO nanostructures was observed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the average crystallite size equal 14.7 and 23.8 nm for samples synthesized at growth time 7 and 8 hours respectively. A nanotubes-shaped surface morphology was found using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The optical properties showed that the samples had good absorbance in the UV-Vis. region and wide band gap. The PL spectrum displayed that the intensity of ultraviolet (UV), band gap and defect bands depend on the growth temperature of the ZnO nanostructure. The largest band gap was 3.351 eV for ZnO nanostructure synthesized at 100 °C and growth time 8h.

This study aims to provide an understanding of the influence of social media on the development of peaceful behavior among high school youth in Gorontalo Regency. This research was conducted in ten high schools in Gorontalo Regency, consisting of seven public high schools and three private high schools. Using qualitative research and phenomenological approaches. Respondents in this study were high school students in class XI taken from ten public and private high schools as a representation of the population of high school students in class XI in Gorontalo District High School. The data was obtained by using a questionnaire method which was distributed to 100 respondents regarding the influence of social media on the development of peaceful behavior for high school youth in Gorontalo Regency. The data is then analyzed using the Content Analysis technique to determine the effect of social media on the behavior development of high school youth throughout Gorontalo Regency. The results of this study indicate that adolescents have various concepts of peaceful behavior and one of them is influenced by the media. The concept developed starts from the aspect of how to interact with each other, seen from the effects caused by their behavior, and in terms of the conditions they have. Peaceful behavior among adolescents includes self-directed behavior and behavior directed at others, both protective and promotive. Included in peaceful behavior are all behaviors that individuals themselves feel comfortable with, do not cause problems in society, and behaviors that foster friendship among adolescents.

Ultraviolet C (UVC) devices are an effective means of disinfecting surfaces and protecting medical tools against various microbes, including coronavirus. Overexposure to UVC can induce oxidative stress, damage the genetic material, and harm biological systems. This study investigated the prophylactic efficacy of vitamin C and B12 against hepatotoxicity in UVC-intoxicated rats. Rats were irradiated with UVC (725.76, 967.68, and 1048.36 J/cm2) for 2 weeks. The rats were pretreated with the aforementioned antioxidants for two months before UVC irradiation. The prophylactic effect of vitamins against UVC hepatotoxicity was evaluated by monitoring the alteration of liver enzyme activities, antioxidant status, apoptotic and inflammatory markers, DNA fragmentation, and histological and ultrastructural alterations. Rats exposed to UVC showed a significant increase in liver enzymes, oxidant–antioxidant balance disruption, and increased hepatic inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS, and IDO-1). Additionally, obvious over-expression of activated caspase-3 protein and DNA fragmentation were detected. Histological and ultrastructural examinations verified the biochemical findings. Co-treatment with vitamins ameliorated the deviated parameters to variable degrees. In conclusion, vitamin C could alleviate UVC-induced hepatotoxicity more than vitamin B12 by diminishing oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage. This study could provide a reference for the clinical practice of vitamin C and B12 as radioprotective for workers in UVC disinfectant areas.

AbstractResveratrol is known to exhibit neuroprotective effects in many neurological disorders via autophagy modulation. However, controversial results have been reported about the therapeutic potential of resveratrol and the implication of autophagy in demyelinating diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the autophagic changes in cuprizone-intoxicated C57Bl/6 mice and explore the effect of autophagy activation by resveratrol on the demyelination and remyelination processes. Mice were fed with chow containing 0.2% cuprizone for 5 weeks, followed by a cuprizone-free diet for 2 weeks. Resveratrol (250 mg/kg/day) and/or chloroquine (an autophagy inhibitor; 10 mg/kg/day) were given for 5 weeks starting from the third week. At the end of the experiment, animals were tested on rotarod and then sacrificed for biochemical assessment, luxol fast blue (LFB) staining, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging of the corpus callosum. We observed that cuprizone-induced demyelination was associated with impaired degradation of autophagic cargo, induction of apoptosis, and manifest neurobehavioral disturbances. Oral treatment with resveratrol promoted motor coordination and improved remyelination with regular compacted myelin in most axons without a significant impact on myelin basic protein (MBP) mRNA expression. These effects are mediated, at least in part, via activating autophagic pathways that may involve SIRT1/FoxO1 activation. This study verified that resveratrol dampens cuprizone-induced demyelination, and partially enhances myelin repair through modulation of the autophagic flux, since interruption of the autophagic machinery by chloroquine reversed the therapeutic potential of resveratrol.

Introduction Over the last decade there has been an exponential increase in the terms “global surgery” and “humanitarian surgery”. However, the terms are often used interchangeably and there is no fixed definition of ‘humanitarian surgery’. This makes it difficult to compare interventions, outcomes and cost effectiveness since a wide variety of activities are included in these global or humanitarian surgery programmes. Methods A Delphi process was used over 3 rounds using online software to facilitate responses. A core set of academics and global surgery leaders were invited by targeted email and a snowball sampling effect was used to target responses form Low/Middle Income Countries. Predetermined inclusion criteria were used to ensure the validity of respondents. A Likert scale of 1-6 was used, group agreement was indicated by a median of 3 4 and group consensus was indicated by an interquartile range of £ 2. Intraclass correlation was used to assess stability of response. Results Round 1 generated 25 statements, across 4 themes: Who, What, Where and When. Of these, 10 reached agreement and consensus after Rounds 2 and 3. These 10 statements were then used as the basis for the definition of ‘Humanitarian Surgery’. Conclusion By agreeing the definition of ‘Humanitarian Surgery’, this will allow comparison of activities within the field to ensure they are appropriate, provide a high quality of care and are cost effective. Debate should now move to focus on ensuring Humanitarian Surgery is delivered to the highest possible standard wherever and whenever it is required.

Introduction There is a paucity of data regarding the experiences of the local surgical workforce present during conflicts. Whilst we know that surgical trauma burden increases during conflict, little is known about workforce adaptation to new injury modalities, higher caseloads, and additional system pressures. Qualitative research is an effective methodology for elucidating surgical systems in such settings. Methods Medically qualified personnel performing surgery during a conflict, who had worked in this setting before the onset or escalation of conflict, were identified through a pre-interview questionnaire distributed through the Royal College of Surgeons of England and other targeted networks. A structured guide was used to conduct in-depth interviews and a thematic analysis was undertaken. Results Surgical practitioners (male:female 19:2), of different seniority and representing 9 subspecialties, from 9 Middle Eastern and North African countries were interviewed. There were notable differences in the experiences of practitioners within new conflict settings (Libya, Syria, Egypt and Sudan) compared to those with previous conflict experience, where medical education and training were more likely to be uninterrupted. This necessitated training during active situations, which many practitioners regarded as very fruitful. Junior trainees in new conflict areas often had to ‘act up’ under intense pressure, often without adequate supervision whilst practitioners in previous conflict settings have normalized conflicts and developed cultural coping mechanisms. Conclusion This study contributes to the evidence gap on the surgical workforce in conflict settings and highlights the need for innovative and swift support for entire surgical ecosystems to maximize impact.

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) efflux transporters' overexpression hinders antiepileptic drug brain entry. Breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) is a major BBB efflux transporter. In the present work, BCRP's role as a mechanism that might contribute to drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in a mouse model of acute seizures was studied with further assessment of the effect of its inhibition by ko143 and metformin (MET) on lamotrigine (LTG) bioavailability and efficacy. 42 male mice divided into 6 groups: G1: Normal control, G2: LTG-injected healthy mice: LTG 20 mg/kg i.p., G3: Acute seizures (A.S) mice: Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) 50 mg/kg i.p., G4: LTG-treated A.S mice: LTG 20 mg/kg + PTZ 50 mg/kg i.p., G5: Ko143 + LTG treated A.S mice: Ko143 15 mg/kg i.p. before LTG + PTZ, G6: MET + LTG treated A.S mice: MET 200 mg/kg i.p. before LTG + PTZ. Seizures severity, serum, brain LTG, and brain BCRP were assessed. PTZ group experienced the highest seizure frequency and brain BCRP expression. Ko143 and MET groups showed a significant decrease in brain BCRP with subsequent improvement in brain LTG level and better seizure control. BCRP has a significant role in epilepsy resistance and its inhibition with ko143 or MET adds value to DRE management.

The call for the implementation of integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (iSTEM) teaching has been on the rise. This teaching approach helps students to develop innovative skills and meet twenty-first century challenges. However, teachers need to possess positive attitudes toward iSTEM teaching to implement it. Therefore, studying factors that influence these attitudes is important. So far, investigated factors have focused on teachers’ personal and professional experiences. Predisposing and enabling factors related to iSTEM teaching are yet to be investigated. One putative construct that includes predisposing and enabling factors is adaptive expertise (AE) which allows professionals to highly perform in new tasks. Here, we argue that AE in science teaching is linked to teachers’ iSTEM attitudes through its three dimensions: perceived relevance (PR), self-efficacy (SE), and anxiety (Anx). We utilized a cross-sectional survey method to verify the proposed relationship on fourth year preservice primary science teachers (n = 91). They completed two online surveys measuring AE in science teaching and iSTEM attitudes, respectively. Results from multivariate regression modeling indicate a significant positive effect of AE in science teaching was found significantly positive on all three dimensions of iSTEM attitudes. These findings draw teacher educators’ attention to the importance of developing adaptive expertise while preparing iSTEM teaching advocates.

The objective of this study is to find out what kind of textbooks and teaching materials are needed by students of Islamic Education Program (PAI). This is done so that students get the material they really need to support their learning process at this time or in the future. This research conducted at students of PAI IAIN Sultan Amai Gorontalo. The data were collected by observing the PAI Study Program documents and distributing questionnaires for the needs of English learning materials. This study involved 50 students who were taken randomly and spread out from 3 batches or semesters. The involvement of students who have already taken part in English learning is of course to get more comprehensive data. Data were analyzed with need analysis for students’ need. The research findings indicated that the needs of non-English study programs for ESP English courses are very diverse, so it can be concluded that they need English not only for their current needs such as reading English literature, but also for future work. Therefore, it is recommended that ESP English teachers or interested parties can accommodate the needs of students, and always carry out a need analysis because the needs of ESP students are always changing.

This study was conducted to find out how big the influence of Dakota Media on Student Learning Outcomes in Mathematics Learning of FPB and KPK in Class IV SDN 11 Limboto, Gorontalo Regency. The type of this research is a quantitative research with a Pre-Experimental approach, type One Group Pre-test Post-test Design. Determination of the population and samples taken from class IV totaling 30 students where all the population was sampled (saturated sampling). In collecting data, the author uses a multiple choice test with a total of 20 questions. From the results of the analysis of hypothesis testing, the results of the paired sample test were obtained with the final data obtained on the results of the Pre-test and Post-test, the value of t_count was 14,278 with df = 29 and t_table with a level of = 0.05 of 2,045. Thus, t_count 14,278 > t_table 2,045 which means that H1 is accepted and H0 is rejected with the result that there is an effect of Dakota Media on student learning outcomes in mathematics learning at FPB and KPK in fourth grade at SDN 11 Limboto, Gorontalo Regency.

The present work aims to fabricate n-i-p forward perovskite solar cell (PSC) withئ structure (FTO/ compact TiO2/ compact TiO2/ MAPbI3 Perovskite/ hole transport layer/ Au). P3HT, CuI and Spiro-OMeTAD were used as hole transport layers. A nano film of 25 nm gold layer was deposited once between the electron transport layer and the perovskite layer, then between the hole transport layer and the perovskite layer. The performance of the forward-perovskite solar cell was studied. Also, the role of each electron transport layer and the hole transport layer in the perovskite solar cell was presented. The structural, morphological and electrical properties were studied with X-ray diffractometer, field emission scanning electron microscope and current-voltage (J-V) characteristic curves, respectively. J-V curves revealed that the deposition of the Au layer between the electron transport layer (ETL) and Perovskite layer (PSK) reduced the power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 3% to 0.08% when one layer of C. TiO2 is deposited in the PSC and to 0.11% with two layers of C. TiO2. Power conversion efficiency, with CuI as the hole transport layer (HTL), showed an increase from 0.5% to 2.7% when Au layer was deposited between PSK and CuI layers. Also, Isc increased from 6.8 mA to 17.4 mA and Voc from 0.3 V to 0.5V. With depositing Au layer between P3HT and PSK layers, the results showed an increase in the efficiency from 1% to 2.6% and an increase in Isc from 10.7 mA to 30.5 mA, while Voc decreased from 0.75 V to 0.5V

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder with no definite treatment, but it can be controlled by changing lifestyle and diet. Consumption of high-fiber and nutrient-rich foods including vegetables have been shown to reduce risks of obesity and Type II Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Also, many herbal plants have been associated with reduced risks of T2DM because of their composition of secondary metabolites. Antioxidant activities of some secondary metabolites have potent inhibitory effects against inflammation linked with insulin resistance and oxidative stress. More than 800 known medicinal plants are used to control diabetes and its relevant complications. However, variations in preharvest factors including plant genotype, growing medium properties, climatic factors, and management practices can influence plant growth and their accumulation of phytochemicals with health-promoting properties. However, the effects of these preharvest factors on the antidiabetic properties of plant secondary metabolites are neither explicit nor easily accessible in the literature. Therefore, this review aims to document recent studies that reported on under-exploited medicinal plants with antidiabetic properties. We reviewed several important preharvest factors that can potentially affect the synthesis of phytoconstituents which possess antidiabetic properties. This review will help identify gaps for future research in phytomedicine and functional foods. Resumo O diabetes é um distúrbio metabólico sem tratamento definido, todavia pode ser controlado a partir de mudanças no estilo de vida e na alimentação. O consumo de alimentos ricos em fibras e nutrientes, incluindo vegetais, demonstrou reduzir os riscos de obesidade e Diabetes Mellitus tipo II (DM2). Além disso, muitas plantas herbáceas têm sido associadas a riscos reduzidos de DM2 devido à sua composição de metabólitos secundários. As atividades antioxidantes de alguns metabólitos secundários têm efeitos potentes de inibição contra inflamações associadas à resistência à insulina e ao estresse oxidativo. Existem mais de 800 plantas medicinais conhecidas utilizadas no controle do diabetes e suas complicações. No entanto, variações nos fatores de pré-colheita, incluindo genótipo da planta, propriedades do meio de cultivo, fatores climáticos e práticas de manejo, podem influenciar em seu desenvolvimento e seu acúmulo de fotoquímicos com propriedades promotoras. Apesar disso, os efeitos desses fatores de pré-colheita nas propriedades antidiabéticas de metabólitos secundários de plantas não são explícitos nem facilmente acessáveis na literatura. Portanto, esta revisão tem como objetivo documentar estudos recentes que relataram plantas medicinais subexploradas com propriedades antidiabéticas. Revisamos diversos fatores pré-colheita importantes que podem afetar potencialmente a síntese de fitoconstituintes que possuem propriedades antidiabéticas. Assim, esta revisão auxiliará na identificação de lacunas para pesquisas futuras em fitomedicina e alimentos funcionais.

There is no doubt that the investigation of the interaction and propagation of plasma and electromagnetic waves play an important role in understanding these phenomena. The three-dimensional Yu–Toda–Sasa–Fukuyama equation (YTSFE) is a competent mathematical model of waves in plasma, electromagnetics, or fluids. An optimal system of infinitesimal symmetries is constructed to discover extensive and astonishingly exact solutions to the YTSFE. The outstanding solutions include periodic, polynomials, fractional, logarithmic, exponential, hyperbolic, exponential integral, Airy and complex functions. These solutions are significant because they help understand how plasma and electromagnetic applications work at different boundary or initial conditions.

Subtle memory and cognitive changes may occur in uninephrectomized (Unix) patients long before the development of chronic kidney disease, such changes may be unnoticed. The dietary polyphenol, Resveratrol, displayed various neuroprotective effects, its role in chronic kidney disease is an area of intense studies. This work was designed to investigate the behavioural and molecular changes that may occur following 7 months of Unix in rats, and to determine whether Resveratrol intake can improve such pathology. Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: sham operated, Unix and Unix group treated with Resveratrol (20 mg/kg/day). Rats were subjected to series of behavioural testing, different biochemical parameters along with RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry of the hippocampal tissue to track the development of functional or structural brain changes. Anxiety behaviour and reduced spatial memory performance were observed in rats 7 months post-nephrectomy; these deficits were remarkably reversed with Resveratrol. Among the species typical behaviour, burrowing was assessed; it showed significant impairment post-nephrectomy. Resveratrol intake was almost able to increase the burrowing behaviour. Decreased SIRT1 in immune-stained sections, oxidative stress, inflammatory changes, and increased AChE activity in hippocampal homogenates were found in Unix rats, and Resveratrol once more was capable to reverse such pathological changes. This work has investigated the occurrence of behavioural and structural brain changes 7 months following Unix and underlined the importance of Resveratrol to counterbalance the behavioural impairment, biochemical and brain pathological changes after uninephrectomy. These findings may raise the possible protective effects of Resveratrol intake in decreased kidney function.

Infrared photoconductive detectors working in the far-infrared region and room temperature were fabricated. The detectors were fabricated using three types of carbon nanotubes (CNTs); MWCNTs, COOH-MWCNTs, and short-MWCNTs. The carbon nontubes suspension is deposited by dip coating and drop–casting techniques to prepare thin films of CNTs. These films were deposited on porous silicon (PSi) substrates of n-type Si. The I-V characteristics and the figures of merit of the fabricated detectors were measured at a forward bias voltage of 3 and 5 volts as well as at dark and under illumination by IR radiation from a CO2 laser of 10.6 μm wavelengths and power of 2.2 W. The responsivity and figures of merit of the photoconductive detector are improved by coating the MWCNTs films with a thin layer of a blend (polyaniline - polymethyl methacrylate) polymer with methylene blue dye. The coated MWCNTs films showed better performances, so this type of coating can be considered as a surface treatment of the detector film, which highly increased the responsivity and specific detectivity of the fabricated IR laser detector-based MWCNTs. The photocurrent response for the coated films was increased about 25 times than that for uncoated films. The results proved the role of the polymer in the enhancement of the performance of the IR photoconductive detectors. Keywords: Carbon nanotubes, Infrared detector, Polyaniline polymer, Polymethyl methacrylate polymer, Methyl Blue dye.

In the present work we applied laser photoacoustic spectroscopy (LPAS) to the analysis of food samples. In particular, we analyzed samples of different rice flours (standard and commercial ones). For this purpose, a laboratory system based on quantum cascade laser (QCL) has been developed and characterized. After that, the LPAS spectra of all the rice samples were collected with a standard error of less than 2% of the measured value and a background signal negligible compared to the sample signals. All the experimental LPAS spectra resulted to be rich in spectral features showing clear differences between each other. The experimental spectra were then analyzed by comparison with the FT-IR transition frequency recorded in our laboratory to consent a proper assignment. Finally, to put in evidence the small differences among the various rice types, the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to the recorded LPAS spectra highlighting five different groups corresponding to the five types of samples. In conclusion, the present work demonstrated the discriminating capability of LPAS technique in the case of different types of rice flour samples.

Purpose A novel coronavirus (COVID-19) that has not been previously identified in humans and has no specific treatment has recently spread. Treatment trials using antiviral and immune-modulating drugs such as hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) were used to control this viral outbreak however several side effects have emerged. Berberine (BER) is an alkaloid that has been reported to reveal some pharmacological properties including antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Additionally, Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, this study was undertaken to estimate the efficiency of both BER and synthetic ZnO/BER complex as an anti-COVID-19 therapy. Methods First, the ZnO/BER complex was prepared by the facile mixing method. Then in vitro studies on the two compounds were conducted including VeroE6 toxicity, anti-COVID-19 activity, determination of inhibitory activity towards papain-like proteinase (PL pro) and spike protein- and receptor- binding domain (RBD) as well as assessment of drug toxicity on RBCs. Results The results showed that ZnO/BER complex acts as an anti-COVID-19 by inhibiting spike protein binding with angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE II), PL pro activity, spike protein and E protein levels, and expression of both E-gene and RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) at a concentration lower than that of BER or ZnO-NPs alone. Furthermore, ZnO/BER complex had antioxidant and antimicrobial properties where it prevents the auto oxidation of 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the culture of lower respiratory system bacteria that affected Covid 19 patients. The ZnO/BER complex prevented as well the HCQ cytotoxic effect on both RBC and WBC (in vitro) and hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity and anemia that occurred after HCQ long administration in vivo. Conclusion The ZnO/BER complex can be accounted as promising anti-COVID 19 candidate because it inhibited the virus entry, replication, and assembly. Furthermore, it could be used to treat a second bacterial infection that took place in hospitalized COVID 19 patients. Moreover, ZnO/BER complex was found to eliminate the toxicity of long-term administration of HCQ in vivo.

Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid with several clinical therapeutic applications. Its low water solubility, absorption, and cellular bioavailability diminish BBR's therapeutic efficacy. In this study, BBR was encapsulated into bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (BSA NPs) core to reduce BBR limitations and enhance its clinical therapeutic properties. Several physicochemical characterization tools, such as Dynamic Light Scattering and Ultraviolet–Visible spectroscopic measurements, field emission transmission electron microscopy surface morphology, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, thermal stability analysis, and releasing studies, were used to evaluate the BBR-BSA NPs. Compared to BBR, BBR-BSA nanoparticles demonstrated superior free radical scavenging and antioxidant capacities, anti-hemolytic and anticoagulant efficacies, and antimicrobial activities, as demonstrated by the findings of the in vitro studies. Furthermore, a stressed pancreatic rat model was induced using a high-fat, high-sucrose diet plus carbon tetrachloride injection. The in vivo results revealed that BBR-BSA NPs substantially restored peripheral glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Oral administration of BBR-BSA NPs also improved pancreatic β-cells homeostasis, upregulated pancreatic antioxidant mechanisms, inhibited oxidants generation, and attenuated oxidative injury in the stressed pancreatic tissues. In conclusion, our in vitro and in vivo results confirmed that BBR-BSA NPs demonstrated more potent antioxidant properties and restored pancreatic homeostasis compared to BBR.

The role of immunodeficiency in the development of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM), especially in paediatric populations, have yet to be fully elucidated. The purposesof this study is to investigate the association between immunocompromised status and CSOM among paediatric population in a tertiary hospital in Indonesia.A cross-sectional study was performed by retrieving medical records of paediatric patients, with and without CSOM (age 0-18 years), visiting otorhinolaryngology (ENT-HNS) outpatient clinic in a tertiary hospital in Indonesia (2018-2020). We collected data on comorbidities causing immunosuppression such as HIV status, tuberculosis, and cancer.Among the 1018 included patients (50 immunocompromised children), HIV infection was the most common cause of immunodeficiency in the CSOM group (24 patients, 60%), and cancer in the non-CSOM group (10 patients, 100%). We found a significant association between immunocompromised hosts and CSOM (odds ratio 19.5 [95% confidence interval: 9.5-39.9], p0.001).Immunocompromised children with HIV, tuberculosis, or cancer may be more vulnerable to CSOM. Further research is required to explore the association between other immunocompromised conditions and CSOM in paediatric populations.

MWCNTs-OH was used to prepare a flexible gas sensor by deposition as a network on a filter cake using the method of filtration from suspension (FFS). The morphological and structural properties of the MWCNTs network were characterized before and after exposure to Freon gas using FTIR spectra and X-ray diffractometer, which confirmed that the characteristics of the sensor did not change after exposure to the gas. The sensor was exposed to a pure Freon134a gas as well as to a mixture of Freon gas and air with different ratios at room temperature. The experiments showed that the sensor works at room temperature and the sensitivity values increased with increasing operating temperature, to be 58% until 150 ºC. The fabricated flexible sensor has good response and recovery times at low gas concentrations of 1.3, 2, and 2.7 ppm.

Background: Berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid, acts as a multipotent active pharmaceutical ingredient to counteract several types of dementia based on its numerous pharmacological actions including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol-lowering effect, and inhibition of Aβ production and AChE. However, BBR suffers from poor absorption, bioavailability and brain drug uptake. The present study is directed for the formulation and characterization of Chitosan BBR-Nanoparticles (BBR-NPs) as well as the estimation of its neuroprotective effects against scopolamine induced cognitive impairments. Methods: BBR-NPs were formulated using the ionic gelation method, and tripolyphosphate was chosen as a crosslinker. Nanoparticles size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency and releasing profile were estimated. To investigate the neuroprotective effects, adult fifty-six Wistar male rats were randomly distributed into three control groups, received saline, polyethylene glycol or Chitosan- NPs, respectively; induced group, received scopolamine (2 mg/ kg, i.p.) and three treated groups were orally administrated BBR (50 mg/ kg), BBR- NP (7 mg/ kg) and donepezil (2.25 mg/ kg, as positive control) followed by scopolamine injection after 40 min, daily for 4 weeks. Morris water maze test, oxidative stress parameters, cholinergic and amyloid-β processing intermediates, as well as neuroplasticity markers and histopathological examination were assessed. Results: Our results showed that BBR- NPs were better than BBR and donepezil as BBR- NPs were powerful inhibitory ligands towards AChE and Aβ42 formation and significantly down-regulated Tau, iNOS and BACE gene expression in rats’ hippocampus. BBR-NPs administration, at 1/6 of BBR therapeutic recommended dose, significantly improved learning and memory function. This could be accredited to the diminution of oxidative stress and amyloid-β toxicity in addition to the improvement of the neuroplasticity markers. Conclusions: The enhancing effect of BBR- NPs could be related to the enhancing of its bioavailability, absorption and brain drug uptake, which need more investigation in future work.

Long-term exposure to environmental neurotoxic metals is implicated in the induction of dementia and cognitive decline. The present study aims to illustrate the therapeutic role of ipriflavone as a synthetic isoflavone against environmental metal–induced cognitive impairment in rats. Dementia was induced by a mixture of aluminum, cadmium, and fluoride for 90 days followed by ipriflavone for a further 30 days. Metal-treated animals exhibited abnormal behaviors in the Morris water maze task. Neuropathological biomarkers including oxidative stress (TBARS, NO, SOD, GPX, GST, and GSH), inflammation (TNF- α, IL-6, and IL-1β), neurotransmission (AChE and MAO), and insulin resistance (insulin, insulin receptor, and insulin-degrading enzyme) were altered, which consequently elevated the level of amyloid-β42 and tau protein in the hippocampus tissues inducing neuronal injury. Ipriflavone significantly (P < 0.05) ameliorated the neurobehavioral abnormalities and the cognitive dysfunction biomarkers via antioxidant/anti-inflammatory mechanism. Moreover, ipriflavone downregulated the mRNA expression level of amyloid precursor protein and tau protein, preventing amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangle aggregation at P < 0.05. A molecular docking study revealed that ipriflavone has a potent binding affinity towards AChE more than donepezil and acts as a strong AChE inhibitor. Our data concluded that the therapeutic potential of ipriflavone against dementia could provide a new strategy in AD treatment.

The Covid-19 pandemic that has hit the world has had an impact in various fields including education. The application of teaching and learning from home forces educational institutions to switch to digital in implementing learning. The application of learning methods online provides new experiences in current learning methods. Various community responses are present. in response to this relatively new learning system. Rapid digital development and the current emergency situation demands that all stakeholders and all walks of life must adjust to developments. This is of course a common concern in providing solutions to existing problems, so that even in a pademi situation the teaching and learning process can still run smoothly. Digital literacy needs to be carried out extensively (starting from family, school and society), so that all these elements can not only use technology but can also make good and efficient use of it. This research uses a descriptive analysis method. The purpose of this research is to describe related media use. digital, in this case digital literacy, which can be used as an important key in the successful implementation of learning online during a pandemic.

Study question Does addition of blood serum to embryo culture media supplemented with antioxidants (AOXs) helps maintain the AOX activity under in vitro culture conditions? Summary answer The addition of inactivated blood serum (IBS) before AOX supplementation resulted in AOX activity stabilization in embryo-free culture media (EFCM) for up to 48 hours. What is known already Supra-physiological levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in embryo culture medium (ECM) can disturb embryo development possible due to oxidative stress. Hence, AOX supplementation of ECM has been used to counteract the potential negative effects of high ROS on gametes and embryos. However, rapid consumption of AOXs via interaction with ROS may reduce the AOX protection capacity particularly during extended culture conditions. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of IBS in stabilizing the AOX activity of a combination of AOXs (EmbryORP®) when added to EFCM. Study design, size, duration In this prospective study, oxidation reduction potential (ORP) was assessed in EFCM by MiOXSYS System (UAB Caerus Biotechnologies, Vilnius, Lithuania). The ORP results reflect the overall balance between oxidants and antioxidants. ORP levels in follicular fluid obtained from dominant follicles of 40 oocyte donors were used as control. Participants/materials, setting, methods All dishes containing culture medium (GlobalTotal®, LifeGlobal®, Connecticut, US) were incubated for 48 hours in 8% CO2, 20% O2, 37 °C. Culture dishes were divided into four groups: Group A: EFCM without AOX, Group B: EFCM+AOX, Group C: EFCM+AOX+IBS, and Group D: EFCM+IBS. Levels of ORP were assessed in EFCM before AOX supplementation (0), immediately after adding AOX (1) and 48 hours following AOX supplementation (2). ORP results are expressed as millivolts (mV). Main results and the role of chance At 48 hours of culture, ORP value in group C (96.7 mV) was significantly lower than group A (345 mV; p = 0.00001), and was found to be similar to the physiological ORP values found in follicular fluid from donors (89 mV±23.6 mV; p > 0.05). Also, ORP value in group C (96.7 mV) was lower than group B (210 mV; p = 0.67) and group D (280.1 mV; p = 0.11). Limitations, reasons for caution This study only tested the efficacy of IBS as AOX stabilizer in EFCM over 48 hours. The efficacy and potential risks associated with the use of IBS during actual embryo culture were not examined. Wider implications of the findings The use of AOX stabilizers may represent an important novel finding to maintain sufficient AOX protective capacity during extended culture conditions. Trial registration number 10112021-AOX

Long-term glucocorticoids can alter sperm motility, vitality, or morphology, disrupting male reproductive function. This study scrutinized the synergistic benefits of two Egyptian plants against dexamethasone (Dexa)-induced testicular and autophagy dysfunction in male rats. Phytochemical ingredients and the combination index were estimated for Purslane ethanolic extract (PEE) and Chicory water extract (CWE). Four control groups received saline and 100 mg/kg of each PEE, CWE, and PEE/CWE, daily for 8 weeks. Dexa (1 mg/kg daily for 6 weeks) induced infertility where PEE, CWE, and PEE/CWE were given. Seminal analysis, male hormones, glycemic and oxidative stress markers, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers (Sigma 1R and GRP78), and autophagy regulators (Phospho-mTOR, LC3I/II, PI3KC3, and Beclin-1, P62, ATG5, and ATG7) were measured. The in vitro study illustrated the synergistic (CIlt; 1) antioxidant capacity of the PEE/CWE combination. Dexa exerts testicular damage by inducing oxidative reactions, a marked reduction in serum testosterone, TSH and LH levels, insulin resistance, ER stress, and autophagy. In contrast, the PEE and CWE extracts improve fertility hormones, sperm motility, and testicular histological alterations through attenuating oxidative stress and autophagy, with a synergistic effect upon combination. In conclusion, the administration of PEE/CWE has promised ameliorative impacts on male infertility and can delay disease progression.