bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CFTR improves myocardial ischemic/reperfusion injury through activating FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy and regulating ATP and mitochondrial functions
Authors: Zhang Yaping , Ding Nan , Yi Hanlu , Zhao Yudong , Yan Daole , Shen Lei , Li Zhiqiang , Zhu Yaobin
Published: May 2020

Background

To investigate the potential role of CFTR in myocardial ischemic/reperfusion (I/R) injury and its relationship with mitophagy.
Methods

Wild type (WT) and age matched CFTR−/− male mice were used to establish the myocardial I/R model. CFTR activator forskolin (FSK) was used to activate CFTR in mice. Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) treatment was used for in vitro model in WT or CFTR−/− cardiomyocytes. The autophagy inhibitor 3-MA and activator rapamycin was used for inhibition or activation of autophagy, respectively. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and ATP concentration were detected. Immunofluorescence was performed for measurement of mitochondria. Oxidative factors reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondiadehycle (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) were detected. The expression of CFTR, MMP-9, TNF-α, IL-8, LC3 II/I, beclin1, caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, bax, bcl-2, p-62 and FUNDC1 was determined using western blotting or PCR.
Results

Knockdown of CFTR significantly increased the infraction volume and decreased the expression of autophagy related proteins beclin1 and LC3II/I in mice. In H/R cardiomyocytes, deficiency of CFTR by induced dysfunction of mitochondrial, decrease of ATP concentration and enhanced oxidative stress, as well as inhibited mitophagy and increased cell apoptosis related protein levels. When treated with 3-MA, the effects of overexpression of CFTR was remarkably reversed, while treatment of rapamycin significantly reversed the effects of inhibiting CFTR on both mitophagy, oxidative stress and cell apoptosis related proteins. The inhibition of FUNDC1 also reversed the above effects of overexpressing CFTR.
Conclusion

Inhibition of CFTR could promote myocardial I/R injury by suppressing FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy and activating of oxidative stress.
Coflex Interspinous Process Dynamic Stabilization for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Long-term Follow-up
Authors: Du Mingrui , Wei Fei-Long , Zhu Kai-Long , Zhou Cheng-Pei , Qian Ji-Xian
Published: May 2020

[Objective]To evaluate the long-term efficacy of Coflex interspinous process dynamic stabilization device in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis.[Methods]The clinical and imaging data of 73 patients undergoing Coflex interspinous process dynamic stabilization surgery from July 2008 to June 2012 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical data include: visual analogue scale of pain (VAS), Owestry disability index(ODI) and Japanese Orthopedic Association Scores(JOA) of preoperation, 6 months after surgery, and last follow-up; complications; reoperation rates and incidence of adjacent segment degeneration(ASD). Imaging data including: lumbar range of motion(ROM), intervertebral space height(ISH) and intervertebral foramen height (IFH) of operative and adjacent segment at preoperative, 6 months after operation and the last follow-up.[Results]56 patients were followed up. The follow-up time was 107.6 ± 13.3 months, the operation time was 10.0 ± 3.1 minutes, the intraoperative blood loss was 153.9 ± 80.6 ml, and the hospitalization time was 10.2 ± 3.2 days. The VAS, ODI and JOA scores improved significantly after surgery. At 6 months after surgery and the last follow-up, ROM was significantly lower than that before surgery with statistical significance (P < 0.001). ROM was slightly increased at the last follow-up compared with that 6 months after operation, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The ROM of adjacent segments increased at 6 months and at the last follow-up compared with that before surgery, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). At 6 months after surgery, ISH and IFH of implanted segment was significantly higher than that before surgery, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). At the last follow-up, there was a decrease in ISH and IFH, with no statistical difference compared with that before the operation. During the follow-up period, a total of 11 patients (19.6%) experienced complications and 6 patients (10.7%) underwent secondary surgery.[Conclusion]Coflex interspinous process dynamic stabilization is effective in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis in the long term. The surgical segment retains a small range of motion. The incidence of complications and reoperation is low. However, the ISH and IFH of implanted segment can only be maintained for a short period of time.
Comparing Potential Drug-Drug Interactions in Veterinary Medications Using Two Electronic Databases
Authors: Kijtawornrat Anusak , Boonyarattanasoonthorn Tussapon , Khemawoot Phisit
Published: May 2020

Background: One of the most common global health issues in humans and animals is drug-drug interactions (DDIs). This issue increases the risks of health care in both human and veterinary medicine, as animals live long lives and receive many medicines to treat their illnesses. Currently, many electronic databases are using as a tool for potential DDI prediction, e.g., Micromedex and Drugs.com. The purpose of this study was to compare the ability of Micromedex and Drugs.com to detect potential DDIs in veterinary medicines.Results: There were 140 drugs, mainly used for the treatment of disease in animal hospitals, but the Micromedex and Drugs.com databases unidentified 44 items, therefore only 96 items were used in this study. The analysis detected 1,132 potential DDI pairs from the two databases. Micromedex identified 429 pairs of potential DDIs, while Drugs.com identified 842 pairs of potential DDIs. The same severity of the potential DDIs occurred between the two databases for 139 pairs (12.28%) and a different severity was found for 993 pairs (87.72%).Conclusion: Although Micromedex had a lower sensitivity to find out potential DDIs than Drugs.com, Micromedex provided more informative documentation. Veterinary pharmacists should evaluate potential DDIs from different databases and communicate with both the veterinarian and animal owners to ensure an appropriate drug prescription.
Biomass Energy Business Model on Sustainable Bamboo Forest
Authors: Wahono Johannes Widjaja Krisnamurti , Sumarwan M.Sc. Ujang , Arifin M.Sc. Bustanil , Purnomo M.Comp Herry
Published: May 2020

Background: This study objective to create a business model for the development of renewable energy based on bamboo forest biomass for underdeveloped and remote islands in Indonesia. Electrical energy has a vital and strategic role, to support national development and must be realized reliably, safely, equitably and environmentally friendly. Many problems occur in the management of the national electricity system, including dependence on the supply of fossil-fuel primary energy sources, as well as Indonesia's geographical condition which consists of many islands making it difficult to process the transmission and distribution of electrical energy. Electricity generation from renewable energy sources based on bamboo forest biomass can be a solution to the above problems. The research questions to (1) analyze what factors will influence uncertainty in the development of renewable energy based on bamboo forest biomass; (2) analyze the indicators of the success of the development of renewable energy based on sustainable bamboo forest biomass. (3) designing a business model for the development of renewable energy based on bamboo forest biomass in rural areas that can guarantee sustainable regional growth. Methods: The study uses soft systems methodology techniques in the form of case studies supported by field surveys and literature studies. Qualitative analysis was carried out with a Focus Group Discussion and in-depth interviews with experts aimed at identifying indicators of success in developing sustainable renewable energy. The analysis technique uses two analytical methods, Strategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing (SAST) and Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM). The location of the study was conducted in three villages in Siberut Island, Mentawai Islands Regency, West Sumatra Conclusions: There were numbers of key elements in designing a business model for the development of renewable energy based on bamboo forest biomass, namely electricity subsidy rates, community forest land status, donor agencies, village community participation, income distribution and cooperative partnership of bamboo farmers. Business model that was designed in this study requires five things, specifically; (1) Clustering, (2) High tariffs, (3) Non-commercial funding, (4) Community Forestry, and (5) Community Empowerment.
Anatomic placement of shoulder prosthesis for complex proximal humerus fractures: A modified method for hemiarthroplasty
Authors: Wei Wanfu , Li Jian'an , Bu Guoyun , Yang Tao
Published: May 2020

BackgroundThe placement of shoulder prosthesis used for reconstruction of a complex proximal humerus fractures is challenging. To achieve the anatomical placement of prosthesis, we introduced a new operative technique to determine the humerus height and humeral head retroversion. Herein, we retrospectively investigated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of our procedure.Method34 patients, treated by shoulder arthroplasty for 4-part or 3–part proximal humeral fracture during the period between June 2016 and December 2018, were enrolled in the study. Eventually 29 patients, 18 women and 11 men with an average age of 68.4 years (range 58–85 years), were followed up successfully. Of which 13 patients treated with classic method were matched to 19 of the 29 new method treated patients by operation time, blood loss, pain, range of motion, Constant-Murley score and radiologic features.ResultsThere was significant difference between the two treatment groups in operation time (p = 0.024), while there was no significant difference in blood loss (p = 0.078). No significant difference was found between the two treatment groups in Visual Analog scale (p = 0.225), Constant-Murley score (p = 0.930), and radiological outcomes (p = 0.504). There was linear regression and correlation between Constant-Murley score and age (p = 0.027), while there was no linear relationship between status of tuberosity and the function of the shoulder joint (p = 0.931).ConclusionWe introduce a new operative technique to determine the humerus height and humeral head retroversion for shoulder arthroplasty operation. Based on the data, there is linear regression and correlation between Constant-Murley score and age, while there is no linear relationship between status of tuberosity and the function of the shoulder joint. Our present analyses reveal that our protocol is personalized, easy, effective and feasible.Trial registration: https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN28175069.
miR-22 suppresses cell proliferation, invasion and migration invasion in human colon cancer cell based on targeting NLRP3
Authors: Cong Jinchun , Gong Jian , Yang Chuanjia , Xia Zhixiu , Zhang Hong
Published: May 2020

Background

To investigate the effect of the cell proliferation, migration and invasion in human colon cancer cells which based on the mechanism of miR-22 targeting NLR family pyrin domain containing3(NLRP3)
Methods

Human colonic epithelial cells (HCoEpiC) and human colon cancer cell lines (HCT116, HCT8, HT29, LS174T, LOVO, SW480) were prepared for the present study. The HCT116 cells were divided into 2 parts with different processes, and each part was randomly divided into different groups (part1: BC, NC1, miR-22, NC2, si-miR and part2: BC, miR-22, NC3, si-NLRP3, miR + NC4, miR + NLRP3). Quantification the expression levels of miR-22, NLPR3 and miR-22 targeting NLRP3 related proteins by means of qRT-PCR and Western blot. The colon cancer cell proliferation, invasion and migration were assessed via CCK8, colony formation and transwell assays. Subsequently, nude xenografts mice model was constructed and mice were divided into 4 groups: Model, miR-22, si-NLRP3 and miR + NLRP3. Through the changes of tumor volume and weight, the expression of Ki67 and the protein levels of NLRP3, IL-1B, MMP-9, MMP-2, E-catherine, N-catherine and Vimentin to verify the results.
Results

The cell proliferation, migration and invasion in miR-22, si-NLRP3 and miR + NLRP3 groups were significantly weaker than BC group. In compared to normal tissues, the growth rate of tumor was evidently slowed down, the volume and quality of tumor were evidently reduced and the proportion of Ki67 positive cells were evidently decreased. Both in tumor tissues and in cancer cells, the expression of IL-1B, NLRP3, MMP-9, MMP-2, N-Catherine and Vimentin were evidently decrease and the levels of E-Catherine were evidently increased than in normal tissues or cells. In compared to si-miR and CYLD groups, treatment with si-miR + si-C could effectively reverse the effect of suppressed the tumor progression.
Conclusion

miR-22 targets NLRP3 to inhibit the cell proliferation, migration and invasion in human colon cancer cell
CCL1, IL-22, and IL-36β Have Higher Expression Levels in Aqueous Humor of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Patients in Comparison to Cataract Patients
Authors: Chen Kailin , Xu Wen , Zheng Jiao , Shen Yupeng , Ma Jian , Chen Zhiqing
Published: May 2020

Purpose: To investigate the aqueous humor cytokine expression profile in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients before and after ranibizumab treatments in comparison to cataract patients. Methods: This prospective study included 20 treatment-naïve nAMD eyes of 20 patients who received three consecutive monthly injections of ranibizumab. Aqueous humor samples were collected before the first (baseline), second (1 month later), and third (2 months later) injections. Controls were 20 age- and gender-matched cataract patients without any other ocular disease. The aqueous concentrations of 28 cytokines were measured using a multiplex bead assay. Central macular thickness (CMT) and maximum retinal thickness (MRT)-3mm were measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The greatest linear diameter (GLD) was measured by fundus fluorescein angiography (FA). Results: Nine cytokines in aqueous humor, including angiogenin, bone morphogenetic protein-9 (BMP-9), C-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CCL1), CCL13, interleukin-8 (IL-8), fibroblast growth factor-acidic (FGF-α), IL-22, IL-36β, and vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) were significantly higher in nAMD patients in comparison to cataract patients, whether before or after two consecutive monthly ranibizumab injections. Compared with the nAMD patients’ basal levels, two consecutive monthly ranibizumab injections effectively reduced the aqueous concentration of VEGF-A, improved best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), as well as reduced the values of CMT, MRT-3mm, and GLD. Conclusions: Nine cytokines have higher expression levels in nAMD patients in comparison to cataract patients, whether before or after 2 months of ranibizumab therapy. These cytokines may have correlations with the pathogenesis of nAMD.
Bimatoprost promotes satiety and attenuates body weight in rats fed standard or obesity-promoting diets.
Authors: Spada Clayton , Vu Chau , Raymond Iona , Tong Warren , Chuang Chia-Lin , Walker Christopher , Loomes Kerry , Woodward David F. , Poloso Neil
Published: May 2020

Background

Bimatoprost negatively regulates adipogenesis in vitro and likely participates in a negative feedback loop on anandamide-induced adipogenesis. Here, we investigate the broader metabolic effects of bimatoprost action in vivo in rats under both normal state and obesity-inducing conditions.
Methods

Male Sprague Dawley rats were a fed standard chow (SC) diet in conjunction with dermally applied bimatoprost treatment for a period of 9–10 weeks. Body weight gain, energy expenditure, food intake, and hormones associated with satiety were measured. Gastric emptying was also separately evaluated. In obesity-promoting diet studies, rats were fed a cafeteria diet (CAF) and gross weight, fat accumulation in SQ, visceral fat and liver was evaluated together with standard serum chemistry.
Results

Chronic bimatoprost administration attenuated weight gain in rats fed either standard or obesity-promoting diets over a 9–10 weeks. Bimatoprost increased satiety as measured by decreased food intake, gastric emptying and circulating gut hormone levels. Additionally, SQ and visceral fat mass was distinctly affected by treatment. Bimatoprost increased satiety as measured by decreased food intake, gastric emptying and circulating gut hormone levels.
Conclusions

These findings suggest that bimatoprost (and possibly prostamide F2α) regulates energy homeostasis through actions on dietary intake. These actions likely counteract the metabolic actions of anandamide through the endocannabinoid system potentially revealing a new pathway that could be exploited for therapeutic development.
Qualitative Evaluation of the Autism Behavior Inventory: Use of Cognitive Interviewing to Establish Validity of a Caregiver Report Scale for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Pandina Gahan , Ness Seth , Trudeau Jeremiah , Stringer Sonja , Knoble Naomi , Lenderking William R. , Bangerter Abigail
Published: May 2020

Purpose:The Autism Behavior Inventory (ABI) is an observer-reported outcome scale measuring core and associated features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It was developed in alignment with the Food and Drug Administration’s patient-reported outcome guidance to address the need for instruments to measure change and severity of ASD symptoms. Methods:Cognitive interviewing was used following extensive scale development to determine understanding and content validity of the scale prior to its use in a clinical trial.Interviews used a hybrid of the “think-aloud” and verbal probing approach, to assess ABI’s content validity and participant understanding of the instrument, including: (1) item clarity and relevance; (2) item interpretation; (3) appropriateness ofresponse scales,and (4) clarity of instructions. Audio-recordings of the interviews were collected and transcribed for qualitative data analysis.Results: More than 90% of caregivers of individuals with ASD indicated that they understood all but four items in the 70-item ABI, supported by qualitative analysis of responses. Caregivers were able to select an appropriate response from the options available and reported finding the examples helpful. Based on participant feedback from the first 38 interviews, instructions were simplified, 8 items were removed, and 10 items were reworded. The final revised 62-item scale was presented to an additional 12 caregivers, who reported readily understanding the instructions, response options, and item content.Conclusions:Cognitive interviews with caregivers of a diverse sample of individuals with ASD confirm the content validity and relevance of the ABI to assess core and associated symptoms of ASD.
Risk Factors For Severity Of Thrombocytopenia In Full Term Infants: A Single Center Study
Authors: Saber Amira M , Aziz Shereen P , Almasry Al Zahraa E , Mahmoud Ramadan A
Published: May 2020

Background
Neonatal thrombocytopenia (NT) is a common finding in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The main aim of this study was to assess the prevalence, rick factors and outcomes of severe NT in full term (FT) infants.
Method:
During the study period, all FT infants who met the inclusion criteria for NT on two occasions were included. Maternal data such as maternal age, weight, gestational age, mode of delivery, and history of systemic diseases were recorded. Furthermore, neonatal data such as gender, neonatal weight, causes/duration of admission, types of respiratory support used, blood count and outcomes for neonates admitted to the NICU were recorded.
Results
In total, 55 FT infants with NT met the inclusion criteria. In all, 29 (52.73%) cases had severe NT. The most common cause of NT was neonatal sepsis (20 cases, 37.03%), followed by a postoperative state (5 cases, 9.25%). Moreover, in cases of positive blood cultures, the most commonly isolated organism was Escherichia coli (6 cases, 10.90%), followed by Klebsiella (5 cases, 9.09%). Cases of severe NT, when compared to cases of mild/moderate NT associated with signs of bleeding and pulmonary/intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (P = 0.001), needed more platelet transfusions (P = 0.001) and had higher rates of mortality (P = 0.001).
Conclusion
Severe NT occurred in 52.73% of cases. The most common cause of NT was neonatal sepsis, followed by a postoperative state. Furthermore, severe NT, when compared to mild/moderate NT associated with signs of bleeding and pulmonary/IVH, needed more platelet transfusions and had increased mortality.
Comparison between CT and RT-PCR in a cohort of symptomatic patients with suspected COVID-19 pneumonia during the outbreak peak in Italy
Authors: Besutti Giulia , Rossi Paolo Giorgi , Iotti Valentina , Spaggiari Lucia , Bonacini Riccardo , Nitrosi Andrea , Ottone Marta , Bonelli Efrem , Fasano Tommaso , Canovi Simone , Colla Rossana , Massari Marco , Lattuada Ivana , Trabucco Laura , Pattacini Pierpaolo
Published: May 2020

Objective: To assess sensitivity and specificity of CT vs RT-PCR for the diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia in a prospective Italian cohort of symptomatic patients during the outbreak peak.Methods: In this cross-sectional study we included all consecutive patients who presented to the ER between March 13th and 23rd for suspected COVID-19 and underwent both CT and RT-PCR within 3 days. Using a structured report, radiologists prospectively classified CTs in highly suggestive, suggestive, and non-suggestive of COVID-19 pneumonia. Ground-glass, consolidation, and visual extension of parenchymal changes were collected. Three different RT-PCR-based reference standard definitions were used. Oxygen saturation level, CRP, LDH, and blood cell counts were collected and compared between CT/RT-PCR classes.Results: The study included 696 patients (41.4% women; age 59±15.8 years): 423/454 (93%) patients with highly suggestive CT, 97/127 (76%) with suggestive CT, and 31/115 (27%) with non-suggestive CT had positive RT-PCR. CT sensitivity ranged from 73% to 77% and from 90% to 94% for high and low positivity threshold, respectively. Specificity ranged from 79% to 84% for high positivity threshold and was about 58% for low positivity threshold. PPV remained ≥90% in all cases. Ground-glass was more frequent in patients with positive RT-PCR in all CT classes. Blood tests were significantly associated with RT-PCR and CT classes. Leukocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and platelets decreased, CRP and LDH increased from non-suggestive to suggestive CT classes.Conclusions: During the outbreak peak, CT presented high PPV and may be considered a good reference to recognize COVID-19 patients while waiting for RT-PCR confirmation.
Design characteristics of perforated pooled circular stepped cascade (PPCSC) aeration system
Authors: Roy Subha M. , Moulick Sanjib , Mukherjee Chanchal Kumar
Published: May 2020

In the present study, an improvised design over circular stepped cascade (CSC) and pooled circular stepped cascade (PCSC) aerator, named the perforated pooled circular stepped cascade (PPCSC) aerator, has been conceptualized and tested for its suitability as an aerator for small intensive aquaculture ponds. Based on dimensional analysis, dimensionless geometric parameters – ratio of width of consecutive steps (Wi/Wi+1) and ratio of perforation diameter to bottom-most radius (d/Rb) and dimensionless dynamic parameters – Froude (Fr) and Reynolds (Re) number were proposed. Initially, aeration experiments were conducted to optimize the geometric parameters, keeping the dynamic parameters constant. Keeping the optimized values of Wi/Wi+1 = 1.05 and d/Rb = 0.0027 as constants, aeration experiments were further conducted at different discharges (Q) and different bottommost radius (Rb) to study the characteristics of oxygen transfer and power consumption of PPCSC aerator at different dynamic conditions. Based on the optimized results, four prototype PPCSC aerators with Rb = 0.75 m, 0.90 m, 1.05 m and 1.20 m were fabricated for their aeration performances. The results showed that the standard aeration efficiency (SAE) values of the prototype PPCSC aerators based on brake power ranged between 3.36 and 4.98 kg O2/kWh, with the average being 4.45 ± 0.741 kg O2/kWh. This shows that the SAE of the PPCSC aerator is many more folds higher than that of the other available cascade aerators, viz., PCSC (SAE: 2.873 ± 0.342 kg O2/kWh) and CSC (2.470 ± 0.256 kg O2/kWh) aerators. The study clearly indicates that this PPCSC aerator may very well be used as pre-aeration or post-aeration units in water or wastewater treatment plants and small-scale intensive aquacultural ponds, replacing the other existing aerators.
Plany rozbudowy dawnej warszawskiej rezydencji króla Zygmunta Augusta około roku 1600
Authors: Bania Zbigniew
Published: May 2020

Przechowywany w zbiorze rysunków architektonicznych Tylmana z Gameren projekt  A.Miłobędzki  z interpretuje jako projekt skrzydła zachodniego Zamku Warszawskiego. Autor artykułu sugeruje, że projekt ukazuje północne skrzydło Zamku, zryzalitowane na narożach, otwierające się ku kolegiacie św. Jana i miastu wieloarkadową filarową kolumnadą.

 

Preserved project in the collection of architectural designs in Archiv of Tylamn Gameren (Warsaw University, Cabinet of Designs) A. Miłobędzki interpreted as a project of west wing of Warsaw Castle made in beginning of 17th century. I suppose that this project show us a north wing of Warsaw Castle, with cornrpavillons and vaste pillar collonade looking at collegiate church St. John and Old Town of Warsaw.
Kłopotliwa klasyka
Authors: Chrudzimska-Uhera Katarzyna
Published: May 2020

Recenzja wystawy zorganizowanej w pięćdziesiątą rocznicę śmierci rzeźbiarza Jana Szczepkowskiego (1878-1964) w Muzeum Rzeźby Współczesnej w Orońsku (28 czerwca – 21 września 2014 r.)

Troubelsome classics

Review of the Jan Szczepkowski’s exhibition in the Contemporary Sculpture Museum in Orońsko (28th of June – 21st of September 2014) on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of sculptor’s death.
In Silico Modelling in the Development of Novel Radiolabelled Peptide Probes
Authors: Kleynhans Janke , Kruger Hendrik Gerhardus , Cloete Theunis , Zeevaart Jan Rijn , Ebenhan Thomas
Published: May 2020

This review describes the usefulness of in silico design approaches in the design of
new radiopharmaceuticals, especially peptide-based radiotracers (including peptidomimetics).
Although not part of the standard arsenal utilized during radiopharmaceutical design, the use
of in silico strategies is steadily increasing in the field of radiochemistry as it contributes to a
more rational and scientific approach. The development of new peptide-based radiopharmaceuticals
as well as a short introduction to suitable computational approaches are provided in
this review. The first section comprises a concise overview of the three most useful computeraided
drug design strategies used, namely i) a Ligand-based Approach (LBDD) using pharmacophore
modelling, ii) a Structure-based Design Approach (SBDD) using molecular docking
strategies and iii) Absorption-Distribution-Metabolism-Excretion-Toxicity (ADMET)
predictions. The second section summarizes the challenges connected to these computer-aided
techniques and discusses successful applications of in silico radiopharmaceutical design in
peptide-based radiopharmaceutical development, thereby improving the clinical procedure in
Nuclear Medicine. Finally, the advances and future potential of in silico modelling as a design
strategy is highlighted.
Inflammasome Signaling and Other Factors Implicated in Atherosclerosis Development and Progression
Authors: Nazarian-Samani Zeinab , Sewell Robert D. E. , Rafieian-Kopaei Mahmoud
Published: May 2020

Chronic inflammation plays an extensive role in the onset and progression of metabolic disorders such
as atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, gout and obesity. Atherosclerosis accounts for up to 70% mortality in patients
with type 2 diabetes and is also a chronic condition that causes atrial stenosis due to a lipometabolism imbalance.
The purpose of this article is to consider the inflammatory factors implicated in atherosclerosis and their role in
the development and progression of this vascular disease. The inflammasome signaling pathway is an important
inflammatory mechanism involved in the development of atherosclerosis. The most important inflammasome
pathway in this respect is the NLRP3 inflammasome (Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like
receptor with a pyrin domain 3), whose activation leads to the generation of important inflammatory cytokines
including interleukins 1β and 18 (IL-1β and 18). The activities of these mature cytokines and inflammatory factors
produced by other inflammatory pathways lead to arterial inflammation and eventually arterial occlusion,
which can result in life-threatening complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Therefore, it is essential
to seek out more precise mechanisms for the activation of inflammasomes and other inflammatory pathways
for the development of therapeutic strategies of atherosclerosis.
Diabetes-specific Modulation of Peripheral Blood Gene Expression Signatures in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Molnár Zsuzsanna , Bánlaki Zsófia , Somogyi Anikó , Herold Zoltán , Herold Magdolna , Guttman András , Rónai Zsolt , Keszler Gergely
Published: May 2020

Background:

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and colorectal cancer (CRC) are both
known to modulate gene expression patterns in peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs).

Objective :

As T2DM has been shown to increase the incidence of CRC, we were
prompted to check whether diabetes affects mRNA signatures in PBLs isolated from
CRC patients.

Methods :

Twenty-two patients were recruited to the study and classified into four
cohorts (healthy controls; T2DM; CRC; CRC and T2DM). Relative expression levels of
573 cell signaling gene transcripts were determined by reverse transcription real-time
PCR assays run on low-density OpenArray platforms. Enrichment analysis was
performed with the g:GOSt profiling tool to order differentially expressed genes into
functional pathways.

Results :

49 genes were found to be significantly up- or downregulated in tumorous
diabetic individuals as compared to tumor-free diabetic controls, while 11 transcripts
were differentially regulated in patients with CRC versus healthy, tumor-free and nondiabetic
controls. Importantly, these gene sets were completely distinct, implying that
diabetes exerts a profound influence on the transcription of signaling genes in CRC. The
top 5 genes showing the most significant expression differences in both contexts were
PCK2, MAPK9, CCND1, HMBS, TLR3 (p≤0.0040) and CREBBP, PPIA, NFKBIL1,
MDM2 and SELPLG (p≤0.0121), respectively. Functional analysis revealed that most
significantly affected pathways were cytokine, interleukin and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling
cascades as well as mitotic regulation.

Conclusions :

We propose that differentially expressed genes listed above might be
potential biomarkers of CRC and should be studied further on larger patient groups.
Diabetes might promote colorectal carcinogenesis by impairing signaling pathways in
PBLs.
Paclitaxel Nanoparticles Induce Apoptosis and Regulate TXR1, CYP3A4 and CYP2C8 in Breast Cancer and Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Diab Thoria , Alkafaas Samar S. , Shalaby Thanaa I. , Hessien Mohamed
Published: May 2020

Background and Objective:

Although the anticancer potentials of water-insoluble drugs are
improved by nanoformulation, other intervening factors may contribute in the drug efficacy. This work was
designated to explore the effect of paclitaxel-loaded Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles on the
viability of cancer cells, the expression of Taxol Resistance gene I (TXR1) and paclitaxel metabolizing genes.

Methods:

Paclitaxel loaded PLGA Nanoparticles (PTX-NPs) were prepared, physically characterized and used
in the treatment of breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7) and hepatoma cells (HepG2). Cells viability and apoptosis
were investigated. In parallel, RNA was isolated, reverse transcribed and used to monitor the expression
levels of TXR1, CYP 3A4 and CYP2C8 genes.

Results:

PTX-NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy to be of a nano-size sphere-like
shape. FTIR analysis revealed good coupling between PTX and PLGA. The encapsulation efficiency was 99%
and the drug release demonstrated a progressive releasing phase followed by slower and sustained releasing
phases. Although HepG2 cells demonstrated more resistance to PTX than MCF-7 cells, both cell types were
more responsive to PTX-NPS compared to PTX. The IC50 values decreased from 19.3 to 6.7 in breast cancer cells
and from 42.5 to 13.1μg/ml in hepatoma cells. The apoptosis was the key mechanism in both cells, where at
least 44% of cells underwent apoptosis. The expression of TXR1 decreased when either cells were treated with
PTX-NPs, respectively, meanwhile the expressions of CYP3A4 and CYP2C8 were increased.

Conclusion:

Taken together, this in vitro study reports the associations between the enhanced responsiveness of
MCF-7 and HepG2 cells to PLGA-loaded paclitaxel nanoparticles and the accompanying decrease in the cells
resistance to the PTX and its enhanced metabolism.
Signalement van: Zuurvrij. Berichten uit het Letterenhuis, december 2012, nr. 23 en juni 2013, nr. 24
Authors: Van Hees Pieter
Published: May 2020

–
‘Een indrukwekkende stapel documenten.’ Over de moeizame institutionele ontwikkeling van het filmproductiebeleid in Vlaanderen (1964-1981)
Authors: Willems Gertjan
Published: May 2020

Dit artikel bouwt verder op een vorig in WT verschenen artikel over de voorgeschiedenis (vanaf 1945) en de totstandkoming van het Koninklijk Besluit van 14 november 1964 tot bevordering van de Nederlandstalige filmcultuur, wat de start van de systematische en selectieve cultureel gemotiveerde filmproductiesteun in Vlaanderen inluidde. Dit vervolgartikel handelt over de institutionele ontwikkeling van het filmproductiebeleid in Vlaanderen vanaf 1964 tot 1981, toen Karel Poma (PVV) de onafgebroken opeenvolging van CVP-ministers van Cultuur doorbrak. Na een schets van de algemene budgettaire en ministeriële beleidscontext, gaat het artikel in op de veelvuldige kritieken op het filmproductiebeleid in de betreffende periode. Als antwoord op deze kritiek ontstonden er diverse initiatieven om het KB van 1964 structureel te hernieuwen. Dit artikel duidt de redenen waarom deze pogingen telkens mislukten en gaat tegelijk dieper in op hoe deze initiatieven zich verhielden tot het Vlaamse streven naar culturele autonomie en het communautaire gegeven.__________

‘An impressive stack of documents.’ On the difficult institutional development of the film production policy in Flanders (1964-1981)This article builds further on an article that appeared previously in WT about the events leading up to (from 1945), and the realization of, the Royal Decree of 14 November 1964 for the development of Dutch-language film culture, which led to the beginning of the systematic and selective culturally-motivated support of film production in Flanders. This follow-up article covers the institutional development of the film production policy in Flanders from 1964 to 1981, when Karel Poma of the PVV (the Flemish Liberals) broke through the uninterrupted succession of Ministers of Culture from the CVP (the Flemish Catholic Party). After a sketch of the general budgetary and ministerial policy context, the article looks at the multiple criticisms of film production policy during this period. In response to this criticism came several diverse initiatives to structurally renew the Royal Decree of 1964. This article points out the reasons why these attempts repeatedly failed and at the same time looks at how these initiatives related to the Flemish struggle for cultural autonomy and the communitarian situation.
Het oorlogsjaar 1917, de IJzersymbolen en de relativiteit van de IJzermythes
Authors: Verdoodt Frans-Jos
Published: May 2020

Oorlogsjaren zijn op zichzelf erg belangrijk, maar het oorlogsjaar 1917 was dat in het bijzonder, zowel internationaal als vanuit Vlaams perspectief. Voor de Vlaamsgezinden aan het front betekende 1917 een scharnierjaar: tegen de achtergrond van de eindeloos aanslepende stellingenoorlog enerzijds en de Vlaamsgezinde agitatie van activisme en frontisme anderzijds, werd het oorlogsoffer van een aantal Vlaamsgezinde soldaten nadrukkelijk een sterven-voor-Vlaanderen. Hun offerbereidheid voedde de hoop dat het politieke initiatief na de oorlog in de handen van de Vlaamsgezinden zou komen. Maar tegelijk groeide het gevoel van verlatenheid ten opzichte van de hoogste kerkelijke en politieke overheden, in de eerste plaats tegenover kardinaal Mercier en koning Albert, op wie men vruchteloos beroep had gedaan om de Vlaamsgezinde aspiraties in te wil-ligen. De aura van het sterven-voor-Vlaanderen ontwikkelde zich vooral rondom een aantal gesneuvelde Vlaamsgezinden: deze IJzer-helden werden IJzersymbolen. Onder hen verwierven vooral de (in 1917 gesneuvelde) gebroeders Edward en Frans Van Raemdonck en Renaat De Rudder een iconische en ten dele mythische betekenis.__________

The War Year 1917, the Symbols of the Yser and the Relativity of the Yser Myths

Years of war are very important on their own, but the year 1917 was unusually so, in an international as well as Flemish perspective. For Flemish-minded individuals on the front, 1917 was a turning point: against the background of the endlessly persistent war of position on the one hand, and the Flemish-minded agitation of Activism and the Front Movement on the other, the wartime sacrifice of a number of Flemish casualties was emphatically one of ‘dying for Flanders’. Their willingness to sacrifice fed the hope that the political initiative would come into the hands of the Flemish-minded after the war. But at the same time, a sense of abandonment grew regarding the highest ecclesiastical and political authorities, in the first place Cardinal Mercier and King Albert, to whom a fruitless appeal had been made to accede to Flemish demands. The aura of ‘dying for Flanders’ developed largely around a number of fallen Flemish-minded soldiers: these ‘Yser heroes’ became ‘Yser symbols’. Among these, the brothers Edward and Frans Van Raemdonck and Renaat De Rudder, who all died in 1917, developed a particularly iconic and partly mythical significance.
't Volk is voogd en meester moede
Authors: Van Cauwelaert Rik
Published: May 2020

Tot hij in april 1916 in de buurt van Diks-muide gewond raakte, was de dichter August Van Cauwelaert als broer van de politicus Frans Van Cauwelaert de man die soldatenklachten aanhoorde en die de spanningen tussen Franstalige bevelhebbers en de Vlaamse manschappen registreerde. Maar door de informatie die hem tijdens zijn her-stel in het Zuid-Franse Cannes bereikte, stond Gust Van Cauwelaert gaandeweg dichter bij de Frontbeweging dan zijn broer Frans. Dat blijkt uit een drietal hekeldichten die hij tijdens en na de oorlog schreef aan het adres van de Belgisch regering in Le Havre en aan koning Albert.Gust achtte zijn broer te goedgelovig in zijn contacten met de Belgische regering en met koning Albert. Meermaals waarschuwde hij Frans dat hij op het punt stond zijn prestige te verspelen. Eind december 1916 schreef hij hem: “Het feit dat gij geloofd hebt in de beloften die van hogerhand gedaan werden aangaande onze zaak, en dat vertrouwen hebt meegedeeld, heeft u kwaad gedaan, geloof me”.De verdeeldheid binnen de Vlaamse beweging die Gust had voorspeld was een feit toen hij in augustus 1919 werd gedemobiliseerd.__________

‘Volk is voogd en meester moede

Until he was wounded in the vicinity of Diksmuide in April 1916, the poet August Van Cauwelaert, as the brother of the politician Frans Van Cauwelaert, was the man who listened to soldiers’ complaints and who kept a record of tensions between French-speaking commanders and Flemish enlisted men. But, due to the information that reached him during his recuperation in Cannes in the South of France, Gust Van Cauwelaert gradually moved closer to the Front Movement than his brother Frans. This can be seen in three satirical pieces that he wrote during and after the war, directed at the Belgian government in Le Havre and to King Albert.Gust considered his brother to be too credulous in his contacts with the Belgian government and King Albert. On several occasions he warned Frans that he was about to forfeit his prestige. In the end of December 1916 he wrote to him: “The fact that you have believed in the promises that were made from on high regarding our cause, and that you have made that confidence known out loud, has done you harm, believe me.”The division among the Flemish Movement that Gust had predicted was a fact by the time he was demobilized in August 1919.
Signalement van: Vlaanderens dageraad aan de IJzer. Een kroniek van de Frontbeweging 1914-1918 / Jan Huijbrechts
Authors: De Wever Bruno
Published: May 2020

–
Микрооптопара на базе микродискового лазера и фотодетектора с активной областью на основе квантовых ям-точек
Authors: Крыжановская Н.В. , Моисеев Э.И. , Надточий А.М. , Харченко А.A. , Кулагина М.М. , Минтаиров С.А. , Калюжный Н.А. , Максимов М.В. , Жуков А.Е.
Published: May 2020

We report on the possibility to detect laser emission of microdisk laser having diameter of 24 μm with an active region based on InGaAs/GaAs quantum well-dots using a waveguide photodiode (100x4000 μm) with a similar active region. A photocurrent of ~ 10 μA was obtained under a continuous-wave laser operation, injection current of 20 mA and a distance between the facets of the microlaser and photodiode of about 100 μm. The photodiode’s sensitivity was estimated to be ~ 9 μA / 10 μW.
Формирование многослойных наноструктур NV-центров в монокристаллическом CVD-алмазе
Authors: Горбачев А.М. , Лобаев М.А. , Радищев Д.Б. , Вихарев А.Л. , Богданов С.А. , Большедворский С.В. , Зеленеев А.И. , Сошенко В.В. , Акимов А.В. , Дроздов М.Н. , Исаев В.А.
Published: May 2020

Results of synthesis of multilayered nitrogen doped nanostructures, which consist of periodically located nitrogen-containing layers in monocrystalline CVD diamond, are presented. The possibility of creation of nitrogen doped layers with extremely abrupt interfaces, less than 1 nm, is demonstrated. Photoluminescence studies have shown that multilayered structures allow obtaining higher emission intensity of practically important NV– centers with spin coherence times close to homogeneously doped layers at the same nitrogen concentration.
Особенности полевой десорбции натрия и цезия с поверхности науглероженного рениевого полевого эмиттера
Authors: Бернацкий Д.П. , Павлов В.Г.
Published: May 2020

The field desorption of sodium and cesium atoms from a rhenium field emitter pre-carbonized in benzene vapor was studied using field emission microscopy. A difference was found in the dependence of the ion current Na and Cs on the voltage applied to the field emitter. The difference in the dependences of the ion current is explained by the formation of multilayer graphene on the crystal surface of the rhenium field emitter in the regions of low-index faces and its intercalation by alkali metal atoms with different ionization potentials and different atomic and ion radii.
Evaluating the Quality of Health-Related WeChat Public Accounts: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Fuzhi , Wang Zhuoxin , Sun Weiwei , Yang Xiumu , Bian Zhiwei , Shen Lining , Pan Wei , Liu Peng , Chen Xingzhi , Fu Lianguo , Zhang Fan , Luo Dan
Published: May 2020

Background

As representatives of health information communication platforms accessed through mobile phones and mobile terminals, health-related WeChat public accounts (HWPAs) have a large consumer base in the Chinese-speaking world. However, there is still a lack of general understanding of the status quo of HWPAs and the quality of the articles they release.

Objective

The aims of this study were to assess the conformity of HWPAs to the Health on the Net Foundation Code of Conduct (HONcode) and to evaluate the suitability of articles disseminated by HWPAs.

Methods

The survey was conducted from April 23 to May 5, 2019. Based on the monthly (March 1-31, 2019) WeChat Index provided by Qingbo Big Data, the top 100 HWPAs were examined to evaluate their HONcode compliance. The first four articles published by each HWPA on the survey dates were selected as samples to evaluate their suitability. All materials were assessed by three raters. The materials were assessed using the HONcode checklist and the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) score sheet. Data analysis was performed with SPSS version 17.0 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL, USA) and Excel version 2013 (Microsoft Inc, Washington DC, USA).

Results

A total of 93 HWPAs and 210 of their released articles were included in this study. For six of the eight principles, the 93 HWPAs nearly consistently did not meet the requirements of the HONcode. The HWPAs certified by Tencent Corporation (66/93, 71%) were generally slightly superior to those without such certification (27/93, 29%) in terms of compliance with HONcode principles. The mean SAM score for the 210 articles was 67.72 (SD 10.930), which indicated “adequate” suitability. There was no significant difference between the SAM scores of the articles published by certified and uncertified HWPAs (P=.07), except in the literacy requirements dimension (tdf=97=–2.418, P=.02).

Conclusions

The HWPAs had low HONcode conformity. Although the suitability of health information released by HWPAs was at a moderate level, there were still problems identified, such as difficulty in tracing information sources, excessive implicit advertisements, and irregular usage of charts. In addition, the low approval requirements of HWPAs were not conducive to improvement of their service quality.
Physicians’ Perceptions of the Use of a Chatbot for Information Seeking: Qualitative Study
Authors: Koman Jason , Fauvelle Khristina , Schuck Stéphane , Texier Nathalie , Mebarki Adel
Published: May 2020

Background

Seeking medical information can be an issue for physicians. In the specific context of medical practice, chatbots are hypothesized to present additional value for providing information quickly, particularly as far as drug risk minimization measures are concerned.

Objective

This qualitative study aimed to elicit physicians’ perceptions of a pilot version of a chatbot used in the context of drug information and risk minimization measures.

Methods

General practitioners and specialists were recruited across France to participate in individual semistructured interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a horizontal thematic analysis approach.

Results

Eight general practitioners and 2 specialists participated. The tone and ergonomics of the pilot version were appreciated by physicians. However, all participants emphasized the importance of getting exhaustive, trustworthy answers when interacting with a chatbot.

Conclusions

The chatbot was perceived as a useful and innovative tool that could easily be integrated into routine medical practice and could help health professionals when seeking information on drug and risk minimization measures.