bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The latest first-line treatment options for ovarian cancer: focus on maintenance therapy
Authors: Rumyantsev A. A.
Published: January 2021

Ovarian cancer is one of the leading causes of death from gynecologic cancers in Russia: in 2018, 7616 women died from this disease and the proportion of patients who is under observation for 5 years or more was only 3.4%, which probably indicates very low 5-year survival. At the same time, there was is a tremendous paradigm shift in the treatment of BRCA-associated ovarian cancer. A number of large phase III trials have been published on the use of PARP inhibitors in this subtype of the disease. Their results demonstrated a marked reduction in the risk of disease progression or death with PARP inhibitors after first-line therapy for advanced ovarian cancer. Here we present a comparative analysis of the efficacy of various PARP inhibitors in BRCA-associated ovarian cancer. The relative risk reduction in disease progression or death for olaparib, niraparib and veliparib was 70%, 60% and 56%, respectively and advantage of using these drugs noted in all patient subgroups. Comparative analysis of the safety of various PARP inhibitors was carried out as well, the risks of developing various toxicity were assessed. Based on a comparison of published data on their safety profile, it was concluded that olaparib is the safest drug of this class, especially in the context of therapy on an outpatient basis. Possible ways to optimize the use of PARP inhibitors in disseminated ovarian cancer have been analyzed.
Choice of treatment options for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer
Authors: Gafanov R. A. , Dzidzaria A. G. , Kravtsov I. B. , Fastovets S. V.
Published: January 2021

The arsenal of available treatments and treatments for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHRPC) has increased significantly over the past 5 years. Although androgen-preferential therapy (ADT) remains the mainstay of treatment, the addition of docetaxel, abiraterone, enzalutamide, apalutamide, or local external beam radiation therapy improves the outcome of patients with mHRPC and becomes the standard of care. Choosing a therapy to improve treatment outcomes for patients with mHRPC is becoming increasingly challenging as there are different options for this stage of the disease. This article provides an overview of clinical trials that included ADT in combination with chemotherapy, new hormonal therapy, and radiation therapy. We will also consider recent advances in the choice of treatment for men diagnosed with mHPCR and the impact of previous therapy on the subsequent biology of the disease. Options include chemohormone therapy, androgen receptor (AR) targeted therapy in addition to ADT or, less commonly, ADT alone. The choice of treatment should be based on a consideration of the clinical characteristics and characteristics of the disease, as well as taking into account the patient’s preferences, territorial constraints and financial resources.
Deep neural networks in hydrology: the new generation of universal and efficient models
Authors:   State Hydrological Institute, Ayzel Georgy V. ,   Institute for Environmental Sciences and Geography, University of Potsdam
Published: January 2021

For around a decade, deep learning – the sub-field of machine learning that refers to artificial neural networks comprised of many computational layers – modifies the landscape of statistical model development in many research areas, such as image classification, machine translation, and speech recognition. Geoscientific disciplines in general and the field of hydrology in particular, also do not stand aside from this movement. Recently, the proliferation of modern deep learning-based techniques and methods has been actively gaining popularity for solving a wide range of hydrological problems: modeling and forecasting of river runoff, hydrological model parameters regionalization, assessment of available water resources, identification of the main drivers of the recent change in water balance components. This growing popularity of deep neural networks is primarily due to their high universality and efficiency. The presented qualities, together with the rapidly growing amount of accumulated environmental information, as well as increasing availability of computing facilities and resources, allow us to speak about deep neural networks as a new generation of mathematical models designed to, if not to replace existing solutions, but significantly enrich the field of geophysical processes modeling. This paper provides a brief overview of the current state of the field of development and application of deep neural networks in hydrology. Also in the following study, the qualitative long-term forecast regarding the development of deep learning technology for managing the corresponding hydrological modeling challenges is provided based on the use of “Gartner Hype Curve”, which in the general details describes a life cycle of modern technologies.
Floods in Siberia: geographical and statistical analysis for the period of climate change
Authors:   V. B. Sochava Institute of Geography of SB RAS, Kichigina Natalia V.
Published: January 2021

In Siberia, floods are one of dangerous natural disaster. The danger of floods varies under the climatic and anthropogenic changes, as well as socio-economic development. The aim was to study the current position of problems associated with flood hazard. A key to understanding the flood situation is geographical and statistical analysis of the floods for the period of climate change (1985-2019). Such analyzes addresses the following aspects: study of flood genesis and recurrence, the severity of the impact for floods of different genesis; maxima runoff analysis as the principal cause of floods; analysis of the spatial distribution of settlements vulnerable to flooding; analysis of the ice jams and ice dams as a specific natural factor causing the floods in Siberia; assessment of the degree of danger, and identification of areas with the different integral flood danger. In Siberia, more than 1400 settlements are flooded at regular intervals. Most of them are concentrated in the southern, most developed territories in the Ob, Tom and Yeniseiy basins. In Siberia, rainfall, mixed (from snow melting with rainfall) and ice-dam floods are the most dangerous. They have the highest recurrence and severity of the impact. The greatest floods risk is in the most populated and economically developed southern regions within the Ob, Lena and Yenisey rivers and Lake Baikal basins. Territories with the highest risk of floods were determined. For the Baikal region, one of the most developed territories of Siberia, the flood hazard was determined for all administrative districts. Flood hazard maps for Siberian regions can be the basis for developing the flood adaptation strategies.
Fractionation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at geochemical barriers
Authors:   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Khaustov Aleksandr P. , Redina Margarita M. ,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the study was to identify patterns of fractionation at geochemical barriers (GCB) of associations of marker compounds - polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Based on thermodynamic parameters, the throughput of GCB in geochemical systems (GCS) in relation to organic substances at the molecular level is analyzed. PAHs are very informative indicators of the properties of GCB (up to singular surfaces). The processes of migration and selective penetration through GCB of 15 PAHs from the list of priority pollutants recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency (widely used in the world EPA list): Naphthalene (Naph), acenaphthene (Ace), Fluorene (Flourene), Phenanthrene (Phen), Anthracene (An), Fluoranthene (Flu), Pyrene (Py), Benzo(a)Anthracene (BaA), Chrysene (Chr), Benzo(b)Fluoranthene (BbFlu), Benzo(k)fluoranthhene (BkFlu), Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), benzo(ghi)perylene (Bghi), Dibenzo(a, h) anthracene (DbA), Indeno(1,2-cd)pyrene (Ip). Being geochemical markers, these compounds can accumulate on barriers and selectively penetrate through them, making them especially important objects of study. Despite numerous studies, these mechanisms of mass transfer have not been sufficiently studied. The types of GCB have been identified in terms of their permeability to PAHs. It is shown that the functions of GCB in systems are much more significant and consist not only in the separation of systems from the external environment and the regulation of mass transfer. The above models of migration and accumulation are based on quantitative estimates, which makes the results more reasonable in comparison with the “conceptual” representations of the behavior of substances on GCB in most studies. The most important point - the influence of the medium contact time for establishing a stable state (stability by the migration of compounds) on GCB has been demonstrated.
Hydro-meteorological preconditions and geomorphological consequences of extreme flood in the small river basin in the wet subtropical zone (the Tsanyk River case study, Sochi region)
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Tsyplenkov Anatoly S. ,   RAS Institute of Geography, Ivanova Nadezhda N. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Botavin Dmitry V. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Kuznetsova Yulia S. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Golosov Valentin N. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University,   RAS Institute of Geography
Published: January 2021

The overall increase in precipitation and the frequency of extreme rainfall is confirmed by several meteorological observations both on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus. In this context, research on the drivers of an extreme meteorological event becoming a severe flood and an extreme geomorphological (erosion) event becomes especially important. The article analyses the factors contributing to the development of a flash flood on the watershed of the river Tsanyk (Great Sochi area) and estimates its geomorphological impact. Analysis of hydrologic-meteorological situation during the Tsanyk flood on 7-9 September 2018 and in the previous period showed that the event is unique for the investigated watershed from the hydrologic perspective. After a prolonged period without precipitation, the rainfall on 7-8 September resulted in a flash flood with a rapid water level rise (117 cm in 40 min). We determined the rates and volumes of channel erosion based on a repeated survey of the channel section, estimation of the speed and length of the banks being flushed out, composed of loose sediments and bedrock using the pin method. The amount of erosion on the banks composed of loosened sediments is on average 2-3 times higher than on the flysch banks. At the same time, the material export for one erosion event in September 2018 is comparable (or even exceeds) the total amount of bank erosion for the year, previously identified based on stationary observations.
Assessment of the accuracy of snow water equivalent calculation with the use of global numerical weather prediction models and SnoWE snowpack model (by the example of the Kama River basin)
Authors:   Perm State University, Shikhov Andrey N. , Churiulin Evgenii V. ,   Hydrometcenter of Russia,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Abdullin Rinat K. ,   Perm State University
Published: January 2021

The paper discusses the results of snow cover formation and snowmelt modeling in the Kama river basin (S = 507 km2) using two approaches previously developed by the authors. The first one is the SnoWE snowpack model developed at the Hydrometeorological Center of the Russian Federation and used in quasi-operational mode since 2015, and the second is GIS-based empirical technique which was previously implemented for the Kama river basin. Both methods are based on a combination of numerical weather prediction (NWP) models data with operational synoptic observations at the weather stations. The study was performed for the winter seasons 2018/19 and 2019/20. To assess the reliability of simulated snow water equivalent (SWE), we obtained in-situ data from 68 locations (snow survey routes) distributed over the entire area of ​​the river basin. As a result of the study, the main advantages and limitations of two methods for SWE calculation were identified. As for the maximum values of SWE, the root mean square error (RMSE) of simulated SWE ranges from 14% to 28% of the average observed SWE according to in-situ data. It was found, that the SnoWE model more reliably reproduces SWE in the lowland part of the river basin. Simultaneously, SWE was substantially underestimated according to the SnoWE model in the northern and mountainous parts of the basin,. The second method provides a more realistic estimate of the spatial distribution of SWE over the area, as well as a higher accuracy of calculation for its northern part of the river basin. The main drawback of the method is the substantial overestimation of the intensity of snowmelt and snow sublimation. Consequently, the accuracy of SWE calculations sharply decreases in the spring season. Wherein, SWE calculation accuracy in the winter season 2019/20 was substantially lower than in 2018/19 due to frequent thaws.
Vivência de prazer e sofrimento na equipe técnica em enfermagem do centro de terapia intensiva
Authors: Fontenele Rafael Mondego , Rezende Célia Maria Santos , Almeida Hariane Freitas Rocha , Galvão Ana Patrícia Fonseca Coelho , Ramos Aline Sharlon Maciel Batista , Loyola Cristina Maria Douat
Published: January 2021

Objetivo: verificar a vivência de prazer e sofrimento na equipe técnica em enfermagem do centro de terapia intensiva. Método: pesquisa do tipo qualitativa com observação participante e sistemática, realizada com técnicos de enfermagem do CTI de um hospital em São Luís – MA. Foram entrevistados 26 técnicos de enfermagem com histórico de atestados médicos entre julho de 2016 e julho de 2017. Utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo para tratamento dos dados e como metodologia a hermenêutica-dialética. Resultados: verificou-se a vivência de prazer por trabalhar com pacientes graves, relacionando a profissão com atos de heroísmo. Contudo, identificou-se a vivência de sofrimento físico por usar o corpo como ferramenta de trabalho, e o sofrimento psíquico traduzido em rotinas carregadas de cobranças excessivas, e medo de perder o emprego com a prática de presenteísmo. Conclusão: conclui-se que os técnicos de enfermagem do centro de terapia intensiva vivenciam prazer e sofrimento relacionado ao trabalho.
Transtorno mental comum em usuários de substâncias psicoativas
Authors: Moreira Roberta Magda Martins , Oliveira Eliany Nazaré , Lopes Roberlândia Evangelista , Lopes Marcos Venícios de Oliveira , De Almeida Paulo César , Aragão Heliandra Linhares
Published: January 2021

Objetivo: Averiguar a presença de transtorno mental comum (TMC) e sua associação com fatores relacionados ao perfil sociodemográfico de usuários de substâncias psicoativas. Metodologia: Estudo transversal realizado com 497 usuários de substâncias psicoativas de oito municípios da mesorregião noroeste do estado do Ceará. Os dados foram coletados com formulário para perfil sociodemográfico e o Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20) e analisados por estatística inferencial, com testes de associação, comparação e correlação. Resultados: 78,1% apresentaram rastreamento positivo para TMC com maior índice para humor ansioso e depressivo e sintomas somáticos. O sexo feminino e ter menor idade constituem fatores de risco, enquanto, ter religião católica ou evangélica, ter ocupação, um companheiro fixo e filhos consistem em fatores protetores para TMC. Conclusão: Esse estudo possibilitou identificar condições associadas ao TMC, os quais facilitam a tomada de decisões na tentativa de priorizar ações para grupos mais vulneráveis a fim de evitar o desenvolvimento de TMC.
Intervenções de restrição de mobilidade social durante a pandemia de covid-19 e suas repercussões psicossociais no Brasil
Authors: Nunes Ribeiro Caique Jordan , Dos Santos Allan Dantas , Lima Shirley Verônica Melo Almeida , De Oliveira Ribeiro Maria Do Carmo
Published: January 2021

A pandemia da COVID-19 (doença do coronavírus 2019), causada pelo novo coronavírus da síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SARS-CoV-2), tem causado importantes repercussões geopolíticas, aos diversos sistemas de saúde e à economia mundial, uma vez que se dispersou rapidamente e, até a presente data, foram notificados mais de 3,5 milhões de casos em todo o mundo. Medidas de restrição de mobilidade têm sido adotadas em diversos países, resultando em aumento de sintomas de medo, estresse, ansiedade e depressão, uma vez que a redução do contato social está relacionada a desfechos de saúde física e mental negativos. Portanto, é imprescindível a elaboração de diretrizes de saúde mental que considerem a existência da diversidade sociocultural e disparidades socioeconômicas.
Necessidades pessoais de Enfermeiros durante a pandemia da COVID-19 em Mato Grosso
Authors: Nascimento Vagner Ferreira do , Hattori Thalise Yuri , Terças-Trettel Ana Cláudia Pereira
Published: January 2021

Objetivo: Identificar as necessidades pessoais de enfermeiros durante a pandemia da COVID-19 em Mato Grosso. Método: estudo exploratório e qualitativo, realizado em abril de 2020, com enfermeiros do estado de Mato Grosso. Utilizou-se o discurso do sujeito coletivo e a Teoria das Necessidades Humanas de Maslow. Resultados: Os participantes apresentaram necessidades intermediárias (segurança e sociais) quanto as categorias da teoria de Maslow. Em relação aos discursos foram obtidas quatro ideias centrais: autocuidado, necessidade de afeto, compreensão do distanciamento e prejuízos na relação conjugal. Conclusões: As necessidades pessoais dos enfermeiros refletem o impacto das medidas protetivas recomendadas durante a pandemia da COVID-19 tanto no contexto laboral como familiar.Descritores: Pandemias; Coronavirus; Pessoal de Saúde; Carência Psicossocial.PERSONAL NEEDS OF NURSES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMICIN MATO GROSSOObjective: To identify the personal needs of nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mato Grosso. Method: exploratory and qualitative study, conducted in April 2020, with Nurses from the state of Mato Grosso. The collective subject discourse and Maslow Theory of Human Needs were used. Results: The participants presented intermediate needs (security and social) regarding the categories of Maslow theory. Regarding the speeches, four central ideas were obtained: self-care, need for affection, understanding of distance and losses in the marital relationship. Conclusions: nurse personal needs reflect the impact of the protective measures recommended during the COVID-19 pandemic in both the work and family context.Descriptors: Pandemics; Coronavirus; Health Personnel; Psychosocial Deprivation.NECESIDADES PERSONALES DE ENFERMERAS DURANTE LA PANDEMIA DE COVID-19 EM MATO GROSSOObjetivo: identificar las necesidades personales de las enfermeras durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Mato Grosso. Método: estudio exploratorio y cualitativo, realizado en abril de 2020, con enfermeras del estado de Mato Grosso. Se utilizó el discurso del sujeto colectivo y la Teoría de las Necesidades Humanas de Maslow. Resultados: Los participantes presentaron necesidades intermedias (seguridad y sociales) en relación con las categorías de la teoría de Maslow. Con respecto a los discursos, se obtuvieron cuatro ideas centrales: autocuidado, necesidad de afecto, comprensión de la distancia y pérdidas en la relación matrimonial. Conclusiones: Las necesidades personales de las enfermeras reflejan el impacto de las medidas de protección recomendadas durante la pandemia de COVID-19, tanto en el contexto laboral como familiar.Descriptores: Pandemias; Coronavirus; Personal de Salud; Carencia Psicosocial.
Pesquisa social qualitativa para compreensão da Covid-19
Authors: Minayo Maria Cecília De Souza
Published: January 2021

Social and qualitative research to understand the COVID-19
Characterization and Expression Analysis of Resistance Gene Analogues in Elite Sugarcane Genotypes
Authors: Parvaiz Aqsa , Mustafa Ghulam , Khan Muhammad Sarwar , Ali Muhammad Amjad
Published: January 2021

Background:

Resistance Gene Analogues (RGAs) are an important source of disease resistance
in crop plants and have been extensively studied for their identification, tagging and mapping
of Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs). Tracking these RGAs in sugarcane can be of great help for
the selection and screening of disease resistant clones.

Objective:

In the present study expression of different Resistance Gene Analogues (RGAs) was assessed
in indigenous elite sugarcane genotypes which include resistant, highly resistant, susceptible
and highly susceptible to disease infestation.

Methods:

Total cellular DNA and RNA were isolated from fourteen indigenous elite sugarcane
genotypes. PCR, semi-quantitative RT PCR and real time qPCR analyses were performed. The resultant
amplicons were sequence characterized, chromosomal localization and phylogenetic analysis
were performed.

Results:

All of the 15 RGA primers resulted in amplification of single or multiple fragments from
genomic DNA whereas only five RGA primers resulted in amplification from cDNA. Sequence
characterization of amplified fragments revealed 86-99% similarity with disease resistance proteins
indicating their potential role in disease resistance response. Phylogenetic analysis also validated these
findings. Further, expression of RGA-012, RGA-087, RGA-118, RGA-533 and RGA-542 appeared
to be upregulated and down regulated in disease resistant and susceptible genotypes, respectively,
after inoculation with Colletotrichum falcatum.

Conclusion:

RGAs are present in most of our indigenous genotypes. Anyhow, differential expression
of five RGAs indicated that they have some critical role in disease resistance. So, the retrieved
results can not only be employed to devise molecular markers for the screening of disease resistant
genotypes but can also be used to develop disease resistant plants through transgenic technology.
Plant Terpenes on Treating Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: A Review
Authors: Oliveira Janaína Ribeiro , Ribeiro Guilherme Henrique Mendes , Rezende Luiz Fernando , Fraga-Silva Rodrigo Araújo
Published: January 2021

The use of medicinal plants as a therapy alternative is old as human existence itself.
Nowadays, the search for effective molecules for chronic diseases treatments has increased. The
cardiometabolic disorders still the main cause of death worldwide and plants may offer potential
pharmacological innovative approaches to treat and prevent diseases. In the range of plant
molecules are inserted the terpenes, which constituent essential elements with several pharmacological
characteristics and applications, including cardiovascular and metabolic properties. Thus, the
aim of the present review is to update the terpenes use on chronic disorders such as obesity, diabetes,
hypertension and vascular conditions. The review includes a brief terpenes description based
on the scientific literature in addition to data collected from secondary sources such as books and
conference proceedings. We concluded that terpenes could act as adjuvant or main alternative treatment
(when started earlier) to improve cardiometabolic diseases, contributing to reduce side effects
of conventional drugs, in addition to preserving ethnopharmacological knowledge.
Rapid Profiling of the Marker Components in Artemisia annua L. and their Metabolites in Rats Using an Improved Liquid Chromatography-tandem Highresolution Mass Spectrometry-based Technology
Authors: Wang Xin , Cai Tianyu , Xie Yuewu , Chen Xiaoyue , Yang Aijuan , Xing Jie
Published: January 2021

Background:

As parasite resistance to the main artemisinin drugs has emerged in Southern Asia, the
traditional herb Artemisia annua L. (AAL) from which artemisinin (QHS) isolated was found to overcome resistance
to QHS. However the component and metabolite profiles of AAL remain unclear.

Objectives:

In this study, component profiling of marker compounds in AAL (amorphane sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids) was performed, and their subsequent metabolism was investigated in rats.

Methods:

For efficient component classification and structural characterization, an improved liquid chromatography-
tandem high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS)-based analytical strategy was applied, i.e., background
subtraction (BS) followed by ring-double-bond (RDB) filter in tandem with repeated BS processing.
Structures of detected components/metabolites were characterized based on integrated information including
their HRMSn patterns, RDB values, the established component/metabolite network, the biosynthesis pathways
of AAL, and/or NMR data.

Results:

A total of 38 amorphane sesquiterpene lactones and 35 flavonoids were found in AAL as prototype
compounds, among which 26 components were previously undescribed. Major compounds were identified by
comparing them with reference standards. Among 73 AAL prototypes administered, 38 were absorbed in the
circulation as the prototype. Moreover, 20 metabolites of amorphane sesquiterpene lactones and 10 metabolites
of flavonoids were detected in rats. The major metabolic pathways included oxidation, methylation, glucuronidation
and sulfation.

Conclusion:

The component and metabolite network were established for marker components in AAL, which
will be valuable to understand the synergistic antimalarial potency of QHS in A. annua L. The analytical strategy
can also be applied to other herbal medicines.
Recent Progress in Stimuli-Responsive Intelligent Nano Scale Drug Delivery Systems: A Special Focus Towards pH-Sensitive Systems
Authors: Sethuraman Vaidevi , Janakiraman Kumar , Krishnaswami Venkateshwaran , Kandasamy Ruckmani
Published: January 2021

Stimuli-responsive nanocarriers are gaining much attention due to their versatile multifunctional
activities, including disease diagnosis and treatment. Recently, clinical applications of
nano-drug delivery systems for cancer treatment pose a challenge due to their limited cellular uptake,
low bioavailability, poor targetability, stability issues, and unfavourable pharmacokinetics.
To overcome these issues, researchers are focussing on stimuli-responsive systems. Nanocarriers
elicit their role through endogenous (pH, temperature, enzyme, and redox) or exogenous (temperature,
light, magnetic field, ultrasound) stimulus. These systems were designed to overcome the
shortcomings such as non-specificity and toxicity associated with the conventional drug delivery
systems. The pH variation between healthy cells and tumor microenvironment creates a platform
for the generation of pH-sensitive nano delivery systems. Herein, we propose to present an
overview of various internal and external stimuli-responsive behavior-based drug delivery systems.
Herein, the present review will focus specifically on the significance of various pH-responsive
nanomaterials such as polymeric nanoparticles, nano micelles, inorganic-based pH-sensitive drug
delivery carriers such as calcium phosphate nanoparticles, and carbon dots in cancer treatment.
Moreover, this review elaborates the recent findings on pH-based stimuli-responsive drug delivery
systems with special emphasis on our reported stimuli-responsive systems for cancer treatment.
Antiplatelet Effects of Bioactive Compounds Present in Tomato Pomace
Authors: Fuentes Eduardo , Trostchansky Andrés , Reguengo Lívia M. , Junior Mario R.M. , Palomo Iván
Published: January 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) currently account for nearly half of non-communicable
diseases. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated the cardiovascular protective role of a diet
rich in vegetables and fruits. In this context, our research outcomes have demonstrated the antiplatelet
activities of fruits and vegetable extracts widely consumed, among which tomato was highlighted
in our lab work. Tomato pomace, a major byproduct of tomato paste production, consists of
skin and seeds and is a rich source of bioactive compounds. Tomato pomace has potent antithrombotic
effects, even greater than the tomato. Given the large volumes of an industrial generation of
tomato pomace, there is an opportunity to use this by-product to obtain a functional product with
antiaggregant and antithrombotic properties that could be useful as an additive in health foods and
thus prevent CVD. This review will focus on the platelet as the target for the antithrombotic actions
exerted by the different bioactive compounds present in tomato pomace.
The Mad2-Binding Protein p31comet as a Potential Target for Human Cancer Therapy
Authors: Henriques Ana C. , Silva Patrícia M. A. , Sarmento Bruno , Bousbaa Hassan
Published: January 2021

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is a surveillance mechanism that prevents mitotic
exit at the metaphase-to-anaphase transition until all chromosomes have established correct bipolar
attachment to spindle microtubules. Activation of SAC relies on the assembly of the mitotic
checkpoint complex (MCC), which requires conformational change from inactive open Mad2 (OMad2)
to the active closed Mad2 (C-Mad2) at unattached kinetochores. The Mad2-binding protein
p31comet plays a key role in controlling timely mitotic exit by promoting SAC silencing, through preventing
Mad2 activation and promoting MCC disassembly. Besides, increasing evidences highlight
the p31comet potential as target for cancer therapy. Here, we provide an updated overview of the functional
significance of p31comet in mitotic progression, and discuss the potential of deregulated expression
of p31comet in cancer and in therapeutic strategies.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation in COVID-19: The Contribution of other Chronic Lung Syndromes for the Intervention of a Novel Disease
Authors: Benavides-Córdoba Vicente , Guerrero-Jaramillo Diana , Betancourt-Peña Jhonatan
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 has spread throughout the world causing a significant number of cases of
pneumonia and SARS. Patients with COVID-19 may also have other cardiovascular, respiratory,
and neuromuscular disorders. These multisystemic complications present the need for comprehensive
interventions focused on improving symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life. Pulmonary
rehabilitation has the potential to offer some of these benefits. However, the evidence related
to specific aspects of pulmonary rehabilitation evaluation and intervention in COVID19 is limited.
We have learned from experiences with other types of chronic lung diseases that have used pulmonary
rehabilitation successfully. While the evidence of rehabilitation emerges in COVID-19, it is
necessary to establish some initial recommendations, prepared according to the sequelae found until
now.
The Prospect for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Combined with Exercise and Synbiotics: A Perspective
Authors: Dewi Luthfia , Rosidi Ali , Noer Etika Ratna , Ayuningtyas Annisa
Published: January 2021

:

Change in gut microbiome diversity (the so-called dysbiosis) is correlated with insulin
resistance conditions. Exercise is typically the first management for people with type 2 diabetes
mellitus (T2DM), which is generally well-known for improving glucose regulation. The new prebiotics
and probiotics, like synbiotics, designed to target specific diseases, require additional studies.
While the effectiveness of exercise combined with synbiotics seems promising, this review discusses
these agents’ possibility of increasing the gut microbiota’s diversity. Therefore, they could enhance
short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). In particular, the synbiotic interaction on gut microbiota, the
exercise mechanism in improving gut microbiota, and the prospect of the synergistic effect of the
combination of synbiotic and exercise to improve insulin sensitivity are addressed.
Loneliness and Social Isolation: Determinants of Cardiovascular Outcomes
Authors: Sharma Tanya , Padala Prasad R. , Mehta Jawahar L.
Published: January 2021

:

One in three Americans report experiencing loneliness in everyday life, a number that has grown exponentially over the last few decades. As we respond to the SARS-COV2 pandemic with quarantine and social distancing, social isolation and feelings of loneliness are increasing among people of all ages. This presents as an opportune time to recognize the public health impact of these important psychosocial determinants. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher incidence of CVD, higher healthcare utilization and worse outcomes even after controlling for conventional risk factors of CVD. In this review, we discuss loneliness and social isolation as determinants of cardiovascular outcomes, the pathophysiology of this association, and its implications in clinical practice. We discuss some of the shortcomings in assessment of loneliness and social isolation while identifying most commonly used rating scales for the same. Finally, we suggest modifications to interventions for loneliness and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Correlation Nerve Conduction Studies with Findings of the Ultrasound of the Median Nerve in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Torres-Cuenca Thomas , Ortiz-Corredor Fernando , Diaz-Ruiz Jorge , Orozco-Salomon Diego , Naranjo-Quevedo Andrés
Published: January 2021

Background:

Ultrasonography is a diagnostic resource that serves as a complement in
the evaluation of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The correlation of ultrasonography findings
with nerve conduction studies can serve to classify new phenotypes and to evaluate therapeutic responses.

Objectives:

To determine the diagnostic sensitivity of ultrasound, the correlation between the diameter
of the nerve (CSA) against the motor and sensitive latencies, and the capacity to differentiate
the mild, moderate and severe degrees of the electrophysiological classification of carpal tunnel
syndrome.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study with prospective data collection was carried out. An ultrasonography
system with a 15 MHz transducer was used. Nerve conduction studies of the median nerve
were performed with conventional techniques. Data from the most symptomatic hand were used.
Determination of the correlations of nerve diameter with motor and sensitive latencies of the median
nerve was performed in four age groups: <40(n=11), 40-54 (n=47), 55-70 (n=42) y
>70(n=27).

Results :

A total of 127 patients were evaluated (average age = 58.2 years: minimum = 26; maximum
= 85; SD = 13.4); 109 (85.8%) were female patients. According to the electrophysiological
classification, 40 (31.5%) were mild ; 60 (47.2%) were moderate ; and 27 (21.3%) were severe .
Significant differences in the area of the median nerve were found between the electrophysiological
types (mild, moderate and severe; p = 0.000). The diagnostic sensitivity of ultrasonography differed
for each age group. In general, the diagnostic sensitivity was high in patients with severe cases
and low for mild cases. The capacity for ultrasonography to classify the degrees of electrophysiological
severity was different for each age group. For patients above 70 years and in the age group
of 40 to 54 years, the CSA did not differentiate the electrophysiologically moderate cases from the
severe ones.

Conclusions:

There is a well-defined and significant correlation between nerve conduction studies
and median nerve diameter in patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. However, it shows that the
exclusive use of the ultrasonographic measurement of the cross-sectional area through the inlet of
the carpal tunnel would not be enough to confirm or rule out an entrapment of the median nerve
through the carpal tunnel, nor to predict in every case their electrophysiological severity.
An Active and Low-cost Microwave Imaging System for Detection of
Breast Cancer Using Back Scattered Signal
Authors: Gupta Anupma , Chawla Paras , Kansal Ankush , Singh Kulbir
Published: January 2021

:

A defected ground antenna with dielectric reflector is designed and investigated for breast tumour diagnosis. Ultra-wide band resonance (3.1 to 10.6 GHz) is achieved by etching two slots and adding a narrow vertical strip in a patch antenna. A high dielectric constant substrate is added below the antenna, which shows remarkable effect on performance. Antenna performance is verified experimentally on an artificially fabricated breast tissue and tumour. Malignant tissue has different dielectric properties than the normal tissue, that causes deviation in the scattered antenna power. Average value of backscattered signal variation and ground penetrating radar (GPR) algorithm is used to localize the tumour of radius 4mm in breast tissue.
Challenges of Stem-cell-based Craniofacial Regeneration
Authors: Xu Ruoshi , Zhou Chenchen , Zhang Yuning , Zhang Shiwen , Xie Jing , Yuan Quan
Published: January 2021

Oral diseases, such as dental caries, pulpitis, periodontitis, and craniofacial trauma, are
common. Some individuals suffer from oral cancer or congenital craniofacial defects. The oral-systemic
disease link reveals that a dental disorder is not a minor problem. Tissue loss is an inevitable
consequence of most oral diseases, and repairing the tissue loss and restoring craniofacial function
are highly expected by patients and are terminal targets of dental treatment. The current clinical approach
for tissue loss due to dental caries, pulpitis, periodontitis, oral cancer, trauma, and developmental
diseases depends on the filling of corresponding material, allograft, or autograft bone after
lesion removal. Repair of the tissue volume is expectedly followed by promising functional restoration
using regenerative dental tissue or tissue engineering, which has currently aroused the interest
of clinicians and researchers. This review focuses on the ideas and recent findings on newly identified
skeletal stem cells (SSCs) as candidates for craniofacial regeneration, signaling regulation of
SSCs extended from embryonic development, and signal molecule delivery for the repair of the
craniofacial defect, sincerely hoping that the hypothesis of craniofacial self-healing is true in the future.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 4, 6-Coumarin Derivatives as Anti- Cancer and Apoptosis-Inducing Agents
Authors: Yan Guoyi , Luo Jiang , Han Xuan , Zhang Wenjuan , Pu Chunlan , Zhou Meng , Zhong Xinxin , Hou Xueyan , Hou Man Zhou , Li Rui
Published: January 2021

Background:

Coumarin structures were widely employed in anti-cancer drug design. Herein we focused
on the modifications of C4 and C6 positions on coumarin scaffold to get novel anti-cancer agents.

Objective:

The objective of the current work was the synthesis and biological evaluation of a series of 4, 6-coumarin
derivatives to get novel anticancer agents.

Methods:

Thirty-seven coumarin derivatives were designed and synthesized, the antiproliferative activity of the
compounds was evaluated against human cancer cell lines and non-cancerous cells by MTT assay. The bioactivities
and underlying mechanisms of active molecules were studied and the ADMET characters were predicted.

Results:

Among the compounds, 4-p-hydroxy phenol-6-pinacol borane coumarin (25) exhibited a promising anti-
cancer activity to cancer cell lines in a dose-dependent manner and the toxicity to normal cells was low. The
mechanism of action was observed by inducing G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis which was further confirmed
via western blot. In silico ADMET prediction revealed that compound 25 is a drug-like small molecule with a
favorable safety profile.

Conclusion:

The findings in this work may give vital information for further development of 6-pinacol borane
coumarin derivatives as novel anti-cancer agents.
In Vitro Anticoccidial Activities of the Extract and Fractions of Garcinia kola (Heckel h.) Against Eimeria tenella Oocyst
Authors: Shetshak Manji A. , Jatau Isa D. , Suleiman Muhammed M. , Ameh Matthew P. , Gabriel Ada , Akefe Isaac O.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Commercial poultry farming is expanding every day
and contributing to the provision of affordable and high-quality protein. However,
this sector is confronted with many diseases of which coccidiosis is among
the most important. There are many registered patents affirming the health benefits
of Garcinia kola in poultry.

Objective:

Evaluation of in vitro anticoccidial activities of the extracts and fractions
of Garcinia kola against Eimeria tenella oocyst was carried out.

Method:

Fresh seeds of G. kola were collected, dried under shade at room temperature,
and pulverized using a mortar and a pestle. The powder was exhaustively
extracted with a soxhlet apparatus using 70% methanol, and the crude
methanol extract (CME) was concentrated to dryness using a rotary evaporator.
The CME was further partitioned using butanol, ethylacetate, and n-hexane. The
CME, butanol fraction (BTF), ethylacetate fraction (EAF), and hexane fraction
(HXF) were concentrated in vacuo and tested for the presence of phytochemical
constituents using standard procedures. Similarly, the CME, butanol, ethyl acetate,
and hexane fractions were evaluated in vitro for oocyst sporulation inhibition.

Results:

Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of cardiac glycosides,
saponins, carbohydrates, steroids/triterpenes, tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids
in the CME and BTF. The EAF contains all the metabolites mentioned except
saponins. Similarly, HXF contains only cardiac glycosides, tannins, and steroids/
triterpenes. The CME and BTF caused a concentration-dependent increase in
the inhibition of sporulation of unsporulated oocysts of E. tenella. In the acute
toxicity studies, the CME did not produce any toxic effect or mortality at doses
between 10 and 5000 mg/kg. The CME was then considered safe, and the LD50
was assumed to be >5000 mg/kg.

Conclusion:

The data obtained in this study suggested that the crude methanol
extract (CME) of G. kola could be an appreciable beneficial effect as an anticoccidial
agent against Eimeria tenella oocyst.
Head and Neck Cancer Treatments through Chemotherapy to Magnetic Systems: Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: de Souza Junior Fernando G. , de Lima Nathali R.B. , Roullin Valérie G. , Pal Kaushik , da Silva Nathalia D.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Cancer is one of the diseases causing society’s fears as a stigma of death and pain. Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is a group of malignant neoplasms of different locations in this region of the human body. It is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Brazil, because these malignant neoplasias, in most cases, are diagnosed in late phases. Surgical excision, chemotherapy and radiotherapy encompass the forefront of antineoplastic therapy; however, the numerous side effects associated with these therapeutic modalities are well known. Some treatments present enough potential to help or replace conventional treatments, such as Magnetic Hyperthermia and Photodynamic Therapy. Such approaches require the development of new materials at the nanoscale, able to carry out the loading of their active components while presenting characteristics of biocompatibility mandatory for biomedical applications.

Objective:

This work aims to make a bibliographical review of HNSCC treatments. Recent techniques proven effective in other types of cancer were highlighted and raised discussion and reflections on current methods and possibilities of enhancing the treatment of HNSCC.

Method:

The study was based on bibliometric research between the years 2008 and 2019 using the following keywords: Cancer, Head and Neck Cancer, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, Photodynamic Therapy, and Hyperthermia.

Results:

A total of 5.151.725 articles were found, 3.712.670 about cancer, 175.470 on Head and Neck Cancer, 398.736 on Radiotherapy, 760.497 on Chemotherapy, 53.830 on Hyperthermia, and 50.522 on Photodynamic Therapy.

Conclusion:

The analysis shows that there is still much room for expanding research, especially for alternative therapies since most of the studies still focus on conventional treatments and on the quest to overcome their side effects. The scientific community needs to keep looking for more effective therapies generating fewer side effects for the patient. Currently, the so-called alternative therapies are being used in combination with the conventional ones, but the association of these new therapies shows great potential, in other types of cancer, to improve the treatment efficacy.
Nanovesicle Formulation Enhances Anti-inflammatory Property and Safe Use of Piroxicam
Authors: Mbah Chukwuemeka , Ogbonna Josephat , Nzekwe Ifeanyi , Ugwu George , Ezeh Richard , Builders Philip , Attama Anthony , Adikwu Michael , Ofoefule Sabinus
Published: January 2021

Background:

Enhanced utilization of certain drugs may be possible through the development
of alternative delivery forms. It has been observed that NSAIDs have adverse gastrointestinal
tract effects such as irritation and ulceration during anti-inflammatory therapy. This challenge may
be overcome through nano topical formulations.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the potentials of a transdermal nanovesicular formulation
for safe and enhanced delivery of piroxicam (PRX), a poorly water-soluble NSAID.

Methods:

Preformulation studies were conducted using DSC and FTIR. Ethosomal nanovesicular
carrier (ENVC) was prepared by thin-film deposition technique using Phospholipon® 90 H (P90H)
and ethanol and then converted into gel form. The formulation was characterized using a commercial
PRX gel as control. Permeation studies were conducted using rat skin and Franz diffusion cell.
Samples were assayed spectrophotometrically, and the obtained data was analyzed by ANOVA using
GraphPad Prism software.

Results:

The preformulation studies showed compatibility between PRX and P90H. Spherical vesicles
of mean size 343.1 ± 5.9 nm, and polydispersity index 0.510 were produced, which remained
stable for over 2 years. The optimized formulation (PE30) exhibited pseudoplastic flow, indicating
good consistency. The rate of permeation increased with time in the following order: PE30 > Commercial,
with significant difference (p< 0.05). It also showed higher inhibition of inflammation
(71.92 ± 9.67%) than the reference (64.12 ± 7.92%).

Conclusion:

ENVC gel of PRX was formulated. It showed potentials for enhanced transdermal delivery
and anti-inflammatory activity relative to the reference. This may be further developed as a
safe alternative to the oral form.