Asia Pacific Academy of Science Pte. Ltd.
Not a member yet
3612 research outputs found
Sort by
Phytochemistry, Laxative, Prokinetic and Spasmolytic Verification of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal Using In-Vitro, In-Vivo and In-Silico Approaches
No full textBackground: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is traditionally used as laxative, diuretic and sedative remedy. The current study was aimed to perform phytochemical analysis, antioxidant, cholinesterase inhibitory, laxative, prokinetic and spasmolytic potentials of the plant using in-vitro, in-vivo and in-silico approaches. Methods: Phytochemical analysis was performed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). In-vitro cholinesterase inhibitory and antioxidant studies were performed using standard procedures. The laxative effect was evaluated using pigeons and rabbits whereas the spasmolytic study was performed using rabbits jejunal slices. In-silico study was performed against the identified compounds using Discovery studio version 4.1. Results: The GC-MS revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds. Methanolic extract (MEWS) and n-butanol fraction (NBFWS) showed antioxidant potential using 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of (90 μg mL-1, 180 μg mL-1) and (170 μg mL-1, 169 μg mL-1) respectively. Furthermore, they inhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE) with IC50 values of 50 and 150 μg mL-1 respectively. Both samples exhibited prokinetic effects in metronidazole and loperamide hydrochloride-induced constipation models. Metronidazole was found to be effective by reducing the percentage of wet feces as compared to loperamide hydrochloride. Both samples promoted intestinal transit (propulsion) compared to distilled water. The NBFWS showed significant spasmolytic activity with an effective concentration (EC50 = 0.85 ± 0.31 mg mL-1) in rabbit jejunum when compared with MEWS (EC50 = 4.3 ± 0.5 mg mL-1). Similarly, NBFWS exhibited significant relaxing activity in potassium chloride (KCl)-induced (80 mM) contraction (EC50 = 3.41 ± 0.67 mg mL-1) compared to MEWS (EC50 of 9.6 ± 0.4 mg mL-1). In-silico molecular docking study against the active site of AChE enzyme revealed that 8-cis Octadecenoic acid methyl ester exhibited C-docker energy of –50.0022 Kcal/mol relative to the co-crystallized ligand (–43.6427 Kcal/mol). Conclusions: The purpose of the current study was to find a natural remedy which can overcome the problem associated with constipation and to regulate the GIT motility. The results validated the use of Withania somnifera(W. somnifera) in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders like constipation and spasms, yet further work is warranted to isolate and therapeutically validate its bioactive phytochemicals
Expanding metaverse market: New opportunities and challenges for the content industry
Get PDFThe metaverse is expanding from a simple technology or service into a platform-centric industrial ecosystem. Initially discussed in the context of infrastructure networks, such as computer communication networks, it has since broadened to include content and services related to virtual reality, such as games and films. Recently, the scope of this expanded ecosystem has further widened, linking various types of content through content-based platforms. In this metaverse market, the content market plays a crucial role. This paper aims to examine the current state of the content market within the metaverse market and explore its future development directions. We will analyze various aspects of the content sector utilizing the metaverse both domestically and internationally, investigating how the use of the metaverse is evolving from mere entertainment to a productive market with applicable business models
Derbent’s underwater cultural heritage as a tourist resource
Get PDFThe article reflects the results of expeditionary works on revealing and studying historical artifacts on the bottom of the Caspian Sea near Derbent—the southernmost and most ancient city of Russia. The approaches to geographical study and mapping of the remains of ancient fortification architecture under water and other numerous finds of scuba divers in the area under consideration are described. The authors analyzed the specifics and results of underwater archaeological research from the point of view of the prospects for the development of diving tourism in the Derbent water area. The article also concludes that it is advisable to strengthen the integration of Dagestan historical and geographical science, which will allow researchers to reconstruct little-known pages of history with greater depth and accuracy. The constructive section of the article is devoted to the development of recreational diving and underwater museology in Dagestan, as well as to the general outlines of the underwater park project on the very southern coast of Russia
Navigating overtourism destinations: Leveraging smart tourism solutions for sustainable travel experience
Get PDFThis paper explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and smart tourism technologies to address the multifaceted challenges of overtourism in tourist destinations. Overtourism leads to significant environmental degradation, strains local resources, and diminishes visitor satisfaction, ultimately threatening the sustainability of these destinations. Destinations can enhance sustainability and tailor travel experiences by utilizing cutting-edge technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and big data analytics. These technologies offer innovative solutions to optimize resource use, enhance visitor engagement, and promote responsible tourism practices. The study underscores the potential of smart tourism technologies to manage tourist flows, reduce environmental impacts, and improve the overall quality of life for local communities. Strategic planning, substantial investment, and collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and the private sector, are essential for the successful implementation of these solutions. The findings highlight the critical role of technological innovation in fostering a balanced and sustainable future for tourism, ensuring that destinations can thrive economically while preserving their cultural and natural heritage. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and tourism managers aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of overtourism through the adoption of AI and smart tourism technologies
Application of 3D printing across various fields to enhance sustainable manufacturing
Get PDF3D printing has fundamentally transformed traditional manufacturing practices by enabling decentralized production, customization, and significant reductions in waste and energy consumption. This paper provides a thorough examination of the advancements, applications, challenges, and future prospects of 3D printing in fostering sustainable manufacturing practices across diverse industries. Key additive manufacturing technologies such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) are discussed in relation to their role in achieving sustainability goals. The versatility of 3D printing materials, including biodegradable polymers, recycled metals, and eco-friendly composites, is highlighted alongside their environmental benefits and functional advantages in sectors such as automotive, healthcare, construction, consumer products, electronics, aerospace, and defense. Despite the transformative potential of 3D printing, challenges such as material limitations, energy consumption, regulatory compliance, and initial costs persist, requiring collaborative efforts to overcome. Looking ahead, ongoing research and development efforts in materials science, process optimization, and Industry 4.0 integration are poised to further enhance the sustainability and scalability of 3D printing technologies, thereby paving the way for a more environmentally conscious and economically viable manufacturing future
Note on “stability and data dependence results for jungck-type iteration scheme”
Get PDFThis note reviews the iterative methods introduced in “Stability and Data Dependence Results for Jungck-Type Iteration Scheme”. It has been observed that these methods are not entirely new to a significant extent, as they bear resemblance to previously established approaches. Additionally, the primary iterative method proposed in the paper lacks efficiency, particularly when compared to more advanced or well-known methods. As a result, while the methods may offer some value, they do not represent a significant breakthrough in iterative techniques
Advancements in computer network technologies: A review
Get PDFThis article presents a comprehensive review of recent advancements in computer network technologies, emphasizing their impact on various sectors. The rapid evolution of computer networks has transformed communication, work, and business. From 5G networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) to network security and quantum networking, this review explores the current state of computer networks and their prospects
Research of the nature of implementation of environmental innovations as a factor of ensuring competitiveness of hotel hospitality business
Get PDFIn many countries of the world, sustainable tourism is developing rapidly, and therefore the application of innovative environmental technologies is becoming an integral part of the development strategies of hospitality industry enterprises, especially hotel business. This trend promotes the introduction of new management systems based on the principles of sustainable development, including resource-saving technologies. In the work, the existing environmental management tools are analyzed and comparative studies of the essence of the application of “green” innovations are conducted using the example of the hotel business enterprises of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation.Studies have shown that the implementation of such innovations and eco-technologies in hotels demonstrates their commitment to environmental responsibility, improves the guest experience, helps save resources and acts as an additional advertising tool. Technological re-equipment and the use of modern materials aimed at reducing the burden on the environment ensure the economic efficiency of hotel business enterprises and increase their competitiveness
Crossbreeding and its implication for small-scale animal agriculture in Africa: Outcomes, both positive and negative, and future prospects
Get PDFAfrican animal genetic resources are diverse and have been the subject of crossbreeding for decades to improve local livestock and poultry populations. However, the literature on crossbreeding performance has been inconsistent, with many projects failing due to various reasons. This has led to mixed support and criticism for crossbreeding in small-scale animal agriculture. The review examines the achievements, problems, and future prospects for livestock and poultry genetic improvement through crossbreeding in Africa’s small-scale animal agriculture. Community-based Breeding Practices (CBBP) can be seen as a community livestock development strategy that mobilizes local animal genetic resources and boosts smallholder livestock producers’ ability to collaborate in resource-scarce communities. Genome sequencing is seen as the future cornerstone of promoting crossbreeding in Africa, but it should be based on consideration of the socioeconomic context of small-scale animal husbandry and local livestock production conditions. Smallholder farmers, who are the major custodians of local animal biodiversity, have faced challenges such as genotype and environmental interaction, lack of funding, poor laws, and lack of farmer participation. In conclusion, the review highlights the importance of phenomics and genomic prediction in improving animal genetic resources in Africa, but it also emphasizes the need for further research and development in this area. The study suggests that modern breeding technologies (genomics and phenomics) and training of smallholder livestock farmers in improved animal husbandry management practices can be used to enhance food and nutrition security for African rural households. This review examines the effects of crossbreeding through the decades on small-scale livestock farming in Africa, including positive and negative outcomes as well as future implications
Weather based thumb rule models for formulating the crop insurance schemes for wheat in Punjab
Get PDFThe Wundanyi sub-catchment of Taita Hills is experiencing a high rate of deforestation due to the conversion of all its original forestland to agriculture and settlement during the last century. The landscape dynamics coupled with rainfall fluctuations in these critical ecosystems may significantly affect water resource distribution and food security in Taita Taveta County and its environs. This study aimed to establish the trends of selected hydroclimatic variables in the Wundanyi sub-catchment from 1970 to 2030 and their specific and combined effects on surface runoff and streamflow during the same period. The analysis was based on statistical trend analysis and dynamic landscape modeling using both historical and primary hydroclimatic data from Wundanyi and Voi weather stations. Results show highly variable mean seasonal and annual values of temperature, rainfall, runoff, and discharge in both Wundanyi and Voi weather stations. Increasing mean temperatures and rainfall were observed during the long dry season (JJAS) while decreasing seasonal discharges were observed during both the JJAS dry season and the OND short rainy season. These anomalies were pronounced in 1980–1981, 1986–1987, and 1992–1993, probably due to both global and local environmental changes affecting Taita Hills in general and the Wundanyi sub-catchment in particular. The predicted effects of rainfall fluctuation were supported by declining surface runoff of 1.3% during JJAS, and an increase of 0.8% during the OND, with similar effects on river discharges. The combined effects of climate variability and land use and cover changes (LUCC) on surface runoff were estimated to increase by 200 mm during JJAS and 370 mm during OND, while river discharges increased by 2.37 m3/s and 1.93 m3/s during JJAS and OND, respectively. Consequently, natural forest covers have significant control effects on surface runoff and can boost river discharges amid diverse agricultural cropping practices. Hence, crop diversification, agroforestry, and soil and water conservation structures are recommended to maintain effective control of LUCC on hydrological processes going on in the Wundanyi sub-catchment