bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rearing pattern alters porcine myofiber type, fat deposition, associated microbial communities and functional capacity
Authors: Qi Keke , Men Xiaoming , Wu Jie , Xu Zi wei
Published: August 2019

Background: The Chinese believe that the meat of pigs reared in the past with free range tastes better than that of the pigs reared indoor on a large scale today. Gastrointestinal microflora is closely associated with the main factor of meat flavour, including fibre characteristics and lipid metabolism. Our method in this study involved different raising patterns within the semi free-grazing farm (FF) or indoor feeding farm (DF), the measurement of fat deposition and myofiber type by paraffin section and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and the identification of microbiome and functional capacities associated with meat quality through metagenomic sequencing.
Results: Results showed that the fat area in muscle and adipose tissue and the myofiber density significantly increased in the pigs of the FF group. The relative abundance of bacteria associated with lipid metabolism, such as g_Oscillibacter, in the feces of the FF group was higher than that in DF group, and the relative abundance of some bacteria with probiotic function, including g_Lactobacillus and g_Clostridium, was lower than that in DF group. The abundance of g__Clostridium was significantly positively correlated with the intramuscular fat area, whereas health-related bacteria, such as g__Butyricicoccus, g__Eubacterium, g__Phascolarctobacterium and g__Oribacterium, was significantly negatively correlated with abdominal fat area, myofiber density and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) mRNA expression. KEGG analysis showed that pigs raised in semi free-grazing farm can activate the pathway of inosine monophosphate (IMP) biosynthesis, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism.
Conclusions: Free range feeding improves meat quality by changing the fibre type, myofiber density and metabolic pathways related to flavour amino acids, IMP or glycolysis/gluconeogenesis in muscle. However, prolonged feeding cycle increases fat deposition and associated microbial communities.
Keywords: Rearing pattern, Myofiber type, Fat deposition, Gut micobiota
HCV-Infected Individuals have Higher Prevalence of Comorbidity and Multimorbidity: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Cooper Curtis , Galanakis Chrissi , Donelle Jessy , Kwong Jeff , Boyd Rob , Boucher Lisa , Kendall Claire E.
Published: August 2019

Background:
Almost 1% of Canadians are hepatitis C (HCV)-infected. The liver-specific complications of HCV are established but the extra-hepatic comorbidity, multimorbidity, and its relationship with HCV treatment, is less well known. We describe the morbidity burden for people with HCV and the relationship between multimorbidity and HCV treatment uptake and cure in the pre- and post-direct acting antiviral (DAA) era.

Methods:
We linked adults with HCV at The Ottawa Hospital Viral Hepatitis Program as of April 1, 2017 to provincial health administrative data and matched on age and sex to 5 Ottawa-area residents for comparison. We used validated algorithms to identify the prevalence of mental and physical health comorbidities, as well as multimorbidity (2+ comorbidities). We calculated direct age- and sex-standardized rates of comorbidity and comparisons were made by interferon-based and interferon-free, DAA HCV treatments.

Results:
The mean age of the study population was 54.5 years (SD 11.4), 65% were male. Among those with HCV, 4% were HIV co-infected, 26% had liver cirrhosis, 47% received DAA treatment, and 57% were cured of HCV. After accounting for age and sex differences, the HCV group had greater multimorbidity (prevalence ratio (PR) 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20 to 1.58) and physical-mental health multimorbidity (PR 2.71, 95% CI 2.29 – 3.20) compared to the general population. Specifically, prevalence ratios for people with HCV were significantly higher for diabetes, renal failure, cancer, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, substance use disorder, mood and anxiety disorders and liver failure. HCV treatment and cure were not associated with multimorbidity, but treatment prevalence was significantly lower among middle-aged individuals with substance use disorders despite no differences in prevalence of cure among those treated.

Conclusion:
People with HCV have a higher prevalence of comorbidity and multimorbidity compared to the general population. While HCV treatment was not associated with multimorbidity, people with substance use disorder were less likely to be treated. Our results point to the need for integrated, comprehensive models of care delivery for people with HCV.
Analysis of nifH DNA and RNA reveals a disproportionate contribution to nitrogenase activities by rare plankton-associated diazotrophs
Authors: Yang Qingsong , Dong Junde , Ahmad Manzoor , Ling Juan , Zhou Weiguo , Tan Yehui , Zhang Yuanzhou , Shen Dandan , Zhang Yanying
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background: Holobionts comprising nitrogen-fixing diazotrophs and phytoplankton or zooplankton are ubiquitous in the pelagic sea. However, neither the community structure of plankton-associated diazotrophs (PADs) nor their nitrogenase transcriptional activity are well-understood. In this study, we used nifH gene Illumina sequencing and quantitative PCR to characterize the community composition and nifH expression profile of PADs with > 100 µm size fraction in the euphotic zone of the northern South China Sea.

Results: The results of DNA- and RNA-derived nifH gene revealed a higher alpha-diversity in the active than in the total community. Moreover, the compositional resemblance among different sites was less for active than for total communities of PADs. We characterized the 20 most abundant OTUs by ranking the sum of sequence reads across 9 sampling stations for individual OTUs in both nifH DNA and RNA libraries, and then assessed their phylogenetic relatedness. Eight of the 20 abundant OTUs were phylogenetically affiliated with Trichodesmium and occurred in approximately equal proportion in both the DNA and RNA libraries. The analysis of nifH gene expression level showed uneven attribute of the abundance and nitrogenase activities by the remaining 12 OTUs. Taxa belonging to cluster III and Betaproteobacteria were present at moderate abundance but exhibited negligible nitrogenase transcription activity. Whereas, the abundances of Richelia, Deltaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria were low but the contribution of these groups to nitrogenase transcription was disproportionately high.

Conclusions: The substantial variation in community structure among active dizatrophic fractions compared to the total communities suggests that the former are better indicators of biological response to environmental changes. Altogether, our study highlights the importance of rare PADs groups in nitrogen fixation in plankton holobionts, evidenced by their high level of nitrogenase transcription.
Supporting elderly people with cognitive impairment during and after hospital stays with Intersectoral Care Management [intersec-CM]: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nikelski Angela , Keller Armin , Schumacher-Schönert Fanny , Dehl Terese , Laufer Jessica , Sauerbrey Ulf , Wucherer Diana , Dreier-Wolfgramm Adina , Michalowsky Bernhard , Zwingmann Ina , Vollmar Horst Christian , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Kreisel Stefan H. , Thyrian Jochen René
Published: August 2019

Background
Sectorization of health care systems causes inefficient treatment, especially for elderly people with cognitive impairments. The transition from hospital care to primary care is insufficiently coordinated, and communication between health care providers is often lacking. Consequences include a further deterioration of health, higher rates of hospital readmission, and institutionalization. Models of collaborative care have shown their efficacy in primary care by improving patient-related outcomes. The main goal of this trial is to test the effectiveness of a collaborative care model for people with cognitive impairment (PCI) and current hospital treatment due to a somatic illness to improve the continuity of treatment and care across the transition between the in-hospital and adjoining primary care sectors.

Methods
The trial is a longitudinal multisite randomized controlled trial with two arms (“care as usual” and “intersectoral care management”). Inclusion criteria at the time of hospital admission due to a somatic illness: age 70+, cognitive impairment (Mini Mental State Examination, MMSE ≤ 26), live at home, provide written informed consent. Each participant will have a baseline assessment at the hospital and two follow-up assessments at home (three and twelve months after discharge). The estimated sample size is n=398 participants together with (where available) their respective informal caregivers.
In the intersectoral care management group, specialized care managers will develop, implement and monitor individualized treatment and care based on comprehensive assessments of the patients and informal caregivers for unmet needs at the hospital and in their homes. Primary outcomes are (1) activities of daily living, (2) readmission to the hospital, and (3) institutionalization. Secondary outcomes include (a) frailty, (b) delirium, (c) quality of life, (d) cognitive status, (e) behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, (f) utilization of services, and (g) informal caregiver burden.

Discussion
In the event of proving efficacy, this trial delivers proof of concept for implementation into routine care. Cost-effectiveness analyses as well as an independent process evaluation increase the likelihood of meeting this goal. The trial allows in-depth analysis of mediating and moderating effects for different health outcomes at the interface between hospital care and primary care. Highlighting treatment and care, the study will provide insights into unmet needs at the time of hospital admission, the opportunities and barriers to meeting those needs during the hospital stay and after discharge.
Supporting elderly people with cognitive impairment during and after hospital stays with Intersectoral Care Management [intersec-CM]: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nikelski Angela , Keller Armin , Schumacher-Schönert Fanny , Dehl Terese , Laufer Jessica , Sauerbrey Ulf , Wucherer Diana , Dreier-Wolfgramm Adina , Michalowsky Bernhard , Zwingmann Ina , Vollmar Horst Christian , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Kreisel Stefan H. , Thyrian Jochen René
Published: August 2019

BackgroundSectorization of health care systems causes inefficient treatment, especially for elderly people with cognitive impairments. The transition from hospital care to primary care is insufficiently coordinated, and communication between health care providers is often lacking. Consequences include a further deterioration of health, higher rates of hospital readmission, and institutionalization. Models of collaborative care have shown their efficacy in primary care by improving patient-related outcomes. The main goal of this trial is to test the effectiveness of a collaborative care model for people with cognitive impairment (PCI) and current hospital treatment due to a somatic illness to improve the continuity of treatment and care across the transition between the in-hospital and adjoining primary care sectors.Methods The trial is a longitudinal multisite randomized controlled trial with two arms (“care as usual” and “intersectoral care management”). Inclusion criteria at the time of hospital admission due to a somatic illness: age 70+, cognitive impairment (Mini Mental State Examination, MMSE ≤ 26), live at home, provide written informed consent. Each participant will have a baseline assessment at the hospital and two follow-up assessments at home (three and twelve months after discharge). The estimated sample size is n=398 participants together with (where available) their respective informal caregivers.In the intersectoral care management group, specialized care managers will develop, implement and monitor individualized treatment and care based on comprehensive assessments of the patients and informal caregivers for unmet needs at the hospital and in their homes. Primary outcomes are (1) activities of daily living, (2) readmission to the hospital, and (3) institutionalization. Secondary outcomes include (a) frailty, (b) delirium, (c) quality of life, (d) cognitive status, (e) behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, (f) utilization of services, and (g) informal caregiver burden.DiscussionIn the event of proving efficacy, this trial delivers proof of concept for implementation into routine care. Cost-effectiveness analyses as well as an independent process evaluation increase the likelihood of meeting this goal. The trial allows in-depth analysis of mediating and moderating effects for different health outcomes at the interface between hospital care and primary care. Highlighting treatment and care, the study will provide insights into unmet needs at the time of hospital admission, the opportunities and barriers to meeting those needs during the hospital stay and after discharge.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03359408
Effectiveness of preventive dental programs offered to mothers by non-dental professionals to control Early Childhood Dental Caries: A review
Authors: George Ajesh , Sousa Mariana S , Kong Ariana C , Blinkhorn Anthony , Norrie Tiffany Patterson , Foster Jann , Dahlen Hannah , Ajwani Shilpi , Johnson Maree
Published: August 2019

Background: Early childhood caries is a common chronic childhood disease and maternal oral health is a risk factor. Improving the oral health behaviours of pregnant women/young mothers can positively influence the oral health of children and reduce their caries risk. Such preventative strategies have been undertaken by non-dental professionals producing mixed results encompassing various interventions across the perinatal period. However, no comprehensive review of these studies has been undertaken. The aim of this review was to assess the effectiveness of maternal oral health programs undertaken during the antenatal and/or postnatal period by non-dental health professionals to reduce early childhood caries.
Methods: A systematic search of five databases was undertaken using key search terms. Studies were included if they (a) involved quantitative study designs with a control; (b) were published in English; (c) reported on interventions delivered by non-dental professionals (d) delivered the intervention to expectant mothers or mothers with young infants up to 24 months; (e) measured outcomes when the child was under 5 years; (f) measured changes in oral health outcomes of children clinically and oral health behaviours of mothers or children. No restrictions were placed on the study quality and setting.
Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and involved interventions delivered by diverse non-dental professionals across the antenatal (n=1), postnatal (n=6) and perinatal period (n=2). Most studies were of low methodological quality (n=6). The interventions focussed on oral health education (n=8), dental referrals (n=3) and oral health assessments (n=1). Interventions conducted in either the postnatal or antenatal periods showed meaningful improvements in children’s clinical and mother’s behavioural oral health outcomes. The outcomes appear to be sustained when a suite of interventions were used along with referral reminders. There were mixed results from interventions across the perinatal period.
Conclusions: Non-dental professionals can promote maternal oral health by providing oral health education, risk assessment and referrals. Combining these interventions could provide a sustained improvement in oral health outcomes for children although current evidence is weak. More high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine whether the antenatal and/or postnatal period is best suited to deliver these interventions.
Finite element method analysis of occlusal splint therapy in patients with bruxism
Authors: Gholampour Seifollah , Gholampour Hanie , Khanmohammadi Hamed
Published: August 2019

Background:
In general, habits such as bruxism are contributory factors for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and its etiology is still controversial.
Methods: Three-dimensional models of maxilla and mandible and teeth of 37 patients and 36 control subject were made using in-vivo image data. The maximum values of stress and deformation were calculated in 21 patients six months after using a splint and compared with the initial conditions.
Results: The maximum stresses in the jaw bone and head of mandible in patients were 4.4 and 4.1 times higher than those in control subjects, respectively. Similar values for deformation were 5.8 and 4.9, respectively. Six months after splint application, the maximum stress in the jaw bone and head of mandible decreased by up to 71.0% and 72.8%, respectively. Similar values for the maximum deformation were 80.7% and 78.7%, respectively. With occlusal splint therapy, the approximation of the maximum deformation to the relevant values in control subjects was about 2.6 times the approximation of maximum stress to the relevant values in control subjects. The maximum stress and maximum deformation occurred in all cases in the head of the mandible and the splint had the highest effectiveness in jaw bone adjacent to the molar teeth.
Conclusions: Splint acts as a stress relaxer and dissipates the extra generated stresses and especially the deformation and deviations of TMJ due to bruxism. The splint also makes the bilateral and simultaneous loading possible and helps with the treatment of this disorder through regulation of bruxism by creating a biomechanical equilibrium between the physiological loading and the generated stress.
METHODICAL ASPECT OF STUDYING THE NOTION OF GENERAL SOLUTION OF THE DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION
IN THE COURSE OF HIGHER MATHEMATICS
Authors: Alekseeva Valentina Evgenievna
Published: August 2019

Annotation: the article on a number of examples of equations with separable variables showed that the search for a general solution with strict adherence to the definitions may be associated with unjustified difficulties, whereas the description of the set of solutions in an arbitrary form is quite simple.
aeBlue Chromoprotein Color is Temperature Dependent
Authors: Tamayo-Nuñez Jessica , de la Mora Javier , Padilla-Vaca Felipe , Vargas-Maya Naurú Idalia , Rangel-Serrano Ángeles , Anaya-Velázquez Fernando , Páramo-Pérez Itzel , Reyes-Martínez Juana Elizabeth , España-Sánchez Beatríz Liliana , Franco Bernardo
Published: August 2019

Background:

Marine sessile organisms display a color palette that is the result of the
expression of fluorescent and non-fluorescent proteins. Fluorescent proteins have uncovered
transcriptional regulation, subcellular localization of proteins, and the fate of cells during
development. Chromoproteins have received less attention until recent years as bioreporters. Here,
we studied the properties of aeBlue, a a 25.91 kDa protein from the anemone Actinia equina.

Objective:

To assess the properties of aeBlue chromoprotein under different physicochemical
conditions.

Method:

In this article, during the purification of aeBlue we uncovered that it suffered a color shift
when frozen. We studied the color shift by different temperature incubation and physicochemical
conditions and light spectroscopy. To assess the possible structural changes in the protein, circular
dichroism analysis, size exclusion chromatography and native PAGE was performed.

Results:

We uncover that aeBlue chromoprotein, when expressed from a synthetic construct in
Escherichia coli, showed a temperature dependent color shift. Protein purified at 4 °C by metal
affinity chromatography exhibited a pinkish color and shifts back at higher temperatures to its
intense blue color. Circular dichroism analysis revealed that the structure in the pink form of the
protein has reduced secondary structure at 4 °C, but at 35 °C and higher, the structure shifts to a
native conformation and Far UV- vis CD spectra revealed the shift in an aromatic residue of the
chromophore. Also, the chromophore retains its properties in a wide range of conditions (pH,
denaturants, reducing and oxidants agents). Quaternary structure is also maintained as a tetrameric
conformation as shown by native gel and size exclusion chromatography.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that the chromophore position in aeBlue is shifted from its native
position rendering the pink color and the process to return it to its native blue conformation is
temperature dependent.
Lignin Reactions and Structural Alternations under Typical Biomass Pretreatment Methods
Authors: Zhu Linjiang , Xu Anjie , Zhang Hui , Lu Yuele , Liu Shijie , Chen Xiaolong , Chen Hanchi
Published: August 2019

The utilization of biomass in the production of renewable bioenergy and biomaterials has been a popular topic since the past decades as they are rich in carbohydrates. Most biomasses, such as wood, monocotyledons, and agriculture residues, need to be pretreated before the conversion of carbohydrates in order to break down the recalcitrant cell wall structure and increase the fiber accessibility. To date, a variety of pretreatment methods have been developed that vary from physical to chemical and biological methods. Pretreatment processes affect the cell wall physical structure as well as the chemical structure of the cell wall constituents. Comparing to the studies of the cellulose and hemicelluloses structural changes during pretreatment, such studies on lignin are relatively limited. On the other hand, in order to utilize the part of lignin from biorefinery processes, the understanding of the lignin structural changes during the refining process becomes important. In this study, typical pretreatment methods such as hydrothermal pretreatment, alkaline pretreatment, biodegradation, and oxidative pretreatment are introduced and their corresponding impacts on the lignin structures are reviewed.
Differential Effects of TPM, A Phosphorylated Tocopherol Mixture, and Other Tocopherol Derivatives as Excipients for Enhancing the Solubilization of Co-Enzyme Q10 as a Lipophilic Drug During Digestion of Lipid- Based Formulations
Authors: Pham Anna , Gavin Paul D. , Libinaki Roksan , Ramirez Gisela , Khan Jamal T. , Boyd Ben J.
Published: August 2019

Background:

The tocopherol-based excipient, TPM, when incorporated into a medium-chain
triglyceride (MCT)-based lipid formulation, has been previously shown to improve the solubilization of
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) during in vitro digestion which is strongly correlated with enhanced exposure
in vivo.

Methods:

The current study aimed to gain further understanding of the MCT + TPM co-formulation, by
assessing the formulation performance under fasted and fed in vitro digestion conditions, with different
drug and excipient loading levels. Natural and synthetic-derived TPM were equivalent, and with d-α-
tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) outperformed other derivatives in enhancing the
solubilisation of CoQ10 during digestion.

Results:

Fed conditions significantly improved the solubility of CoQ10 during in vitro digestion of the
formulation in comparison with fasted conditions. The addition of TPM at 10% (w/w) of the total MCT
+ TPM provided optimal performance in terms of CoQ10 solubilization during digestion.

Conclusion:

The results further highlights the potential of TPM as an additive in lipid formulations to
improve the solubilization and oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble compounds.
Probable Novel PSEN1 Gln222Leu Mutation in a Chinese Family with Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Wang Huayuan , Sun Ruihua , Shi Yingying , Xia Mingrong , Zhao Jing , Yang Miaomiao , Ma Limin , Sun Yajing , Li Gai , Zhang Haohan , Qin Weiwei , Zhang Jiewen
Published: August 2019

Background:

The rate of occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease is increasing around the world.
However, there is still no significant breakthrough in the study of its etiology and pathogenesis.

Objective:

To screen Alzheimer's disease pathogenic genes, which may be conducive to the elucidation
of the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease And predict the pathogenicity by various computer
software.

Method:

Clinical and neuroimaging examination, Whole Exome Sequencing, and Sanger sequencing
were performed in the proband. Mutation sites were verified in 158 subjects.

Results:

We reported a proband carrying a probably novel pathogenic mutation, which clinically manifests
as progressive memory loss, visual-spatial disorders, apraxia, psychobehavioral disorders, and
temperamental and personality changes. Whole Exome Sequencing detected a novel missense mutation
at codon 222 (Q222L), which is a heterozygous A to T point mutation at position 665 (c.665A>T) in
exon 5 of the presenilin 1 leading to a glutamine-to-leucine substitution. The mutation was also identified
by Sanger sequencing in one family member; nevertheless, it was not detected in the other 7 unaffected
family members, 50 sporadic Alzheimer's disease patients and 100 control subjects.

Conclusion:

A novel mutation in exon 5 of the presenilin 1 gene (Gln222Leu) in a Chinese family with
early-onset Alzheimer’s disease has been reported, besides， it was predicted that the missense mutation
was probably a novel pathogenic mutation that was reported for the first time in a Chinese family with
early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Design, Synthesis, Antimalarial Activity and Docking Study of 7-Chloro-4- (2-(substituted benzylidene)hydrazineyl)quinolines
Authors: Kalita Jahnabi , Chetia Dipak , Rudrapal Mithun
Published: August 2019

Background:

Malaria is a growing infectious disease burden due to the increasing
emergence of resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Because of the limited therapeutic efficacy
of available antimalarial drugs, the development of potent antimalarial drug agents is therefore
an urgent requirement to fight against resistant malaria.

Objective:

The objective of this work was to develop novel quinoline-baed antimalarial agents that
would be active against resistant P. falciparum malaria.

Methods:

Some 7-chloro-4-(2-(substituted benzylidene)hydrazineyl)quinolines were synthesized
for the evaluation of their potential as possible antimalarial agents, particularly against resistant
malaria. The antimalarial activity of synthesized compounds was evaluated in vitro against bloodstage
parasites of P. falciparum. Further, molecular docking and drug-likeness including ADMET
(Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Elimination and Toxicity) studies were also carried out using
in silico tools.

Results:

Results reveal the in vitro antimalarial activity of synthesized 7-chloro-4-(2-(substituted
benzylidene)hydrazineyl)quinolines against P. falciparum. The docking study investigates the antimalarial
effectiveness of synthesized quinolines as novel plasmepsin 2 inhibitors. Drug-likeness
prediction exhibits acceptable drug-likeness and ADMET properties.

Conclusion:

Based upon our findings, it is concluded that the molecular scaffold of 7-chloro-4-(2-
(substituted benzylidene)hydrazineyl)quinolines may be used as a lead structure for further modifications
in the search of more potent antimalarial drug molecules.
Molecular Modeling Studies of Anti-Alzheimer Agents by QSAR, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulations Techniques
Authors: Abdizadeh Rahman , Hadizadeh Farzin , Abdizadeh Tooba
Published: August 2019

Background:

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), a serine hydrolase, is an important drug
target in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thus, novel AChE inhibitors were designed
and developed as potential drug candidates, for significant therapy of AD.

Objective:

In this work, molecular modeling studies, including CoMFA, CoMFA-RF, CoMSIA,
HQSAR and molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed on a series
of AChE inhibitors to get more potent anti-Alzheimer drugs.

Methods:

2D/3D-QSAR models including CoMFA, CoMFA-RF, CoMSIA, and HQSAR methods
were carried out on 40 pyrimidinylthiourea derivatives as data set by the Sybylx1.2 program. Molecular
docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed using the MOE software and
the Sybyl program, respectively. Partial least squares (PLS) model as descriptors was used for
QSAR model generation.

Results:

The CoMFA (q2, 0.629; r2ncv, 0.901; r2pred, 0.773), CoMFA-RF (q2, 0.775; r2ncv, 0.910; r2pred, 0.824), CoMSIA (q2, 0.754; r2ncv, 0.919; r2pred, 0.874) and HQSAR models (q2, 0.823; r2ncv, 0.976; r2pred, 0.854) for training and test set yielded significant statistical results.

Conclusion:

These QSAR models were excellent, robust and had good predictive capability. Contour
maps obtained from the QSAR models were validated by molecular dynamics simulationassisted
molecular docking study. The resulted QSAR models could be useful for the rational design
of novel potent AChE inhibitors in Alzheimer's treatment.
Anti-Cancerous Effect of Rutin Against HPV-C33A Cervical Cancer Cells via G0/G1 Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptotic Induction
Authors: Khan Fahad , Pandey Pratibha , Upadhyay Tarun K. , Jafri Asif , Jha Niraj K. , Mishra Rashmi , Singh Vineeta
Published: August 2019

Background:

Nowadays, the potential therapeutic role of various bioflavonoids including
Curcumin, Luteolin and Resveratrol has currently been well-documented in a vast range of fatal complications
including synaptic failure and cancers. These bioflavonoids are widely being implemented
for the treatment of various cancers as they possess anti-cancerous, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory
properties. Moreover, they are also used as a better alternative to conventional therapies since; these
are non-toxic to cells and having no or least side effects. Notably, the pertinent therapeutic role of Rutin
in cervical cancer is still unsettled however, its anti-cancerous role has already been reported in
other cancers including prostate and colon cancer. Rutin (Vitamin P or Rutoside) is a polyphenolics
flavonoid exhibiting multi-beneficial roles against several carcinomas.

Objective:

Despite the evidence for its several biological activities, the anticancer effects of Rutin on
human cervical cancer (C33A) cells remain to be explored. In this study, the anticancer potential of
Rutin was investigated by employing the key biomarkers such as nuclear condensation reactive oxygen
species (ROS), apoptosis, and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP).

Results:

Our findings showed that Rutin treatment reduced the cell viability, induced significant increase
in ROS production and nuclear condensation in dose-dependent manner. Moreover, Rutin provoked
apoptosis by inducing decrease in MMP and activation of caspase-3. Cell cycle analysis further
confirmed the efficacy of Rutin by showing cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase.

Conclusion:

Thus, our study is envisaged to open up interests for elucidating Rutin as an anticancerous
agent against cervical cancer.
Vanadium Oxide Nanofibers: Synthesis and Research on Functional Properties
Authors: Berezina O. Ya. , Markova N.P. , Kolobova E.N. , Pergament A.L. , Yakovleva D.S. , Zlomanov V.P. , Krivoshchapov N.V.
Published: August 2019

Aim:

Vanadium oxide nanofibers have been manufactured by the sol–gel electrospinning method followed by the thermal treatment in air and argon.

Materials and Methods:

The samples are characterized by optical, laser confocal and scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray elemental analysis, X-ray diffraction, cyclic voltammetry, and electrical conductivity measurements.

Results:

The obtained VO2 nanofibers demonstrate the semiconductor-to-metal phase transition. Also, the vanadium pentoxide nanofibers are examined as electrode materials for rechargeable Li-ion batteries.
Patient Commitment to Health (PACT-Health) in the Heart Failure Population: A Focus Group Study of an Active Communication Framework for Patient-Centered Health Behavior Change
Authors: Meeker Daniella , Goldberg Jordan , Kim Katherine K , Peneva Desi , Campos Hugo De Oliveira , Maclean Ross , Selby Van , Doctor Jason N
Published: August 2019

Background

Over 6 million Americans have heart failure, and 1 in 8 deaths included heart failure as a contributing cause in 2016. Lifestyle changes and adherence to diet and exercise regimens are important in limiting disease progression. Health coaching and public commitment are two interactive communication strategies that may improve self-management of heart failure.

Objective

This study aimed to conduct patient focus groups to gain insight into how best to implement health coaching and public commitment strategies within the heart failure population.

Methods

Focus groups were conducted in two locations. We studied 2 patients in Oakland, California, and 5 patients in Los Angeles, California. Patients were referred by local cardiologists and had to have a diagnosis of chronic heart failure. We used a semistructured interview tool to explore several patient-centered themes including medication adherence, exercise habits, dietary habits, goals, accountability, and rewards. We coded focus group data using the a priori coding criteria for these domains.

Results

Medication adherence barriers included regimen complexity, forgetfulness, and difficulty coping with side effects. Participants reported that they receive little instruction from care providers on appropriate exercise and dietary habits. They also reported personal and social obstacles to achieving these objectives. Participants were in favor of structured goal setting, use of online social networks, and financial rewards as a means of promoting health lifestyles. Peers were viewed as better motivating agents than family members.

Conclusions

An active communication framework involving dissemination of diet- and exercise-related health information, structured goal setting, peer accountability, and financial rewards appears promising in the management of heart failure.
Telemedicine questionnaire for health care professionals: adaptation and validation using the Technology Acceptance Model (Preprint)
Authors: Vidal-Alaball Josep , Flores Mateo Gemma , Garcia Domingo Josep Lluís , Marin-Gomez Francesc Xavier , Sauch Valmaña Glòria , Ruiz Comellas Anna , Garcia Cuyàs Francesc
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Telemedicine is both effective and can provide efficient care at lower costs. It also enjoys a high acceptance rate among users. The technology acceptance model proposed is based on the two main concepts of ease of use and perceived usefulness and comprises three dimensions: the individual context, the technological context, and the implementation or organizational context. There is not a short validated questionnaire to check the acceptance of telemedicine services amongst health care professionals using a technology acceptance model.

OBJECTIVE

To translate and validate a telemedicine acceptance questionnaire based in the technology acceptance model.

METHODS

The study included the following phases: adaptation and translation of the questionnaire into Catalan, and psychometric validation which include construct (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis), consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and stability (test-retest). Factor analysis was used to describe variability amongst observed variables. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test of sampling was adequate (KMO = 0.818) and the Bartlett test of sphericity was significant (Chi-square 424.188; gl=28; P < .001), indicating that the items were appropriate for a factor analysis. The final confirmatory factor analysis conducted showed good fit index (RMSEA = 0.102, CFI = 0.93, TLI =0.90; CD =0.96).

RESULTS

After removing incomplete responses 144 responses where considered for analysis. The internal consistency measured with the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was good with an alpha coefficient of 0.84 (95%, CI: 0.79-0.84). The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.93 (95% CI: 0.852-0.964).

CONCLUSIONS

The questionnaire validated with this study has robust statistical features that potentially make it a good predictive model of professional’s satisfaction with telemedicine programs.

CLINICALTRIAL

n/a
Effectiveness of Mobile App-Assisted Self-Care Interventions for Improving Patient Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes and/or Hypertension: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (Preprint)
Authors: Liu Kaifeng , Xie Zhenzhen , Or Calvin Kalun
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Mobile app-assisted self-care interventions are emerging promising tools to support self-care of patients with chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension. The effectiveness of such interventions requires further exploration for more supporting evidence.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted to examine the effectiveness of mobile app-assisted self-care interventions developed for type 2 diabetes and/or hypertension in improving patient outcomes.

METHODS

We followed the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines and searched MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and CINAHL Plus for relevant studies published between January 2007 and January 2019. Primary outcomes included changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Changes in other clinical-, behavioral-, knowledge-, and psychosocial-related outcomes were included as secondary outcomes. Primary outcomes and objective secondary outcomes that were reported in at least two trials were meta-analyzed; otherwise, a narrative synthesis was used for data analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 27 trials were identified and analyzed. For primary outcomes, the use of mobile app-assisted self-care interventions was associated with significant reductions in HbA1c levels (standardized mean difference [SMD] −0.44, 95% CI −0.59 to −0.29; P<.001), SBP (SMD −0.17, 95% CI −0.31 to −0.03, P=.02), and DBP (SMD −0.17, 95% CI −0.30 to −0.03, P=.02). Subgroup analyses for primary outcomes showed that several intervention features were supportive of self-management, including blood glucose, blood pressure, and medication monitoring, communication with health care providers, automated feedback, personalized goal setting, reminders, education materials, and data visualization. In addition, 8 objective secondary outcomes were meta-analyzed, which showed that the interventions had significant lowering effects on fasting blood glucose levels and waist circumference. A total of 42 secondary outcomes were narratively synthesized, and mixed results were found.

CONCLUSIONS

Mobile app-assisted self-care interventions can be effective tools for managing blood glucose and blood pressure, likely because their use facilitates remote management of health issues and data, provision of personalized self-care recommendations, patient–care provider communication, and decision making. More studies are required to further determine which combinations of intervention features are most effective in improving the control of the diseases. Moreover, evidence regarding the effects of these interventions on the behavioral, knowledge, and psychosocial outcomes of patients is still scarce, which warrants further examination.
Evaluación de tradeoffs entre servicios ecosistémicos urbanos a escala megalopolitana
Authors: Vilchis Mata Iván
Published: August 2019

Avanzar hacia un desarrollo sostenible requiere comprender los servicios ecosistémicos urbanos (SEU), este trabajo aplica un análisis de tradeoffs, jerárquico y multicriterio para evaluar y explicar las relaciones tradeoffs entre SEU: agua, aire y clima. Producidos y soportados por el sistema socioecológico urbano en las cinco zonas metropolitanas más importantes de la Megalópolis de la Zona Metropolitana del Valle de México (MZMVM), periodo 2000-2016. Se devela la preferencia del SEU de abasto sobre los SEU de regulación (de forma temporal, espacial o interpersonal). Por tanto, resalta su importancia en apoyo a la toma de decisiones en la formulación de políticas públicas.
Effective Assessment of Power Standing Device to Adults with Permanent Lower Limb Paralysis
Authors: Serena Ng SW , Simon Chan KK , Richy Ng CK , Jason Yu KP , Jocelyn Au KP
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Standing routine is a known beneficial daily activity for both healthy and disabled persons, especially those with permanent lower limb paralysis. However, the prescription of standing device for adults with permanent paralysis was inadequate and non-standard in existing local practice because of lack of good design and evidence based funding support. Objective: In view of the availability of new advances in power standing device, we aim to perform an effective health technology assessment (HTA) from professional and users perspectives to develop the decision pathway in prescription for long term home use. Methodology: A functional test and social cost analysis was performed on one high cost new standing mobile devices in recent market. A practical workshop and surveys were performed to collect feedback from 24 healthcare professionals and 8 expert users on a spectrum of new standing mobile device. Results: From the survey results, there was consensus among all participants that ‘Standing’ as daily routine at home is essential and beneficial. 62.5% of healthcare professionals would provide training to users and their cares to facilitate users to perform standing at home. Eight factors were identified from factor analysis in affecting the choice of standing devices for home use by healthcare professionals and users. Users scored high (mean=9.25/10) in “compliance with the new power standing mobile device”. The cost analysis showed considerable savings in social costs in using even the high-cost power standing mobile device. Discussion: The group welcomed power standing device with or without mobile function to support their standing activity at home. A possible clinical decision for prescribing different standing devices with identified factors was summarized. Conclusion: More recent researches have reported the negative health issues associated with prolonged sitting. With more innovative product designs, the power standing devices with or without mobile function is a new concept welcomed by both healthcare professionals and users in promotion of their health, preventing complications as well as independent living in home environment. A larger scale of HTA with structured cost-effectiveness analysis is essential to inform the healthcare resources planners.
Lista de especies, endemismo y conservación de los mamíferos de Costa Rica
Authors: Herrera Bernal Rodríguez , Miranda Federico Chinchilla , Collado Laura J. May
Published: August 2019

Abstract: The geographical position of Costa Rica has historically played an important role in the composition and diversity of our mammalian fauna, consisting of species originating both in the Neartic and Neotropical regions. Based on published data, new descriptions and reports, we here present an updated list of all terrestrial and aquatic Costa Rican mammals. We summarize available information on their status, and present our concerns regarding those species with populations under alarming conditions. The mammalian fauna of Costa Rica is mainly Neotropical. A total of 238 species, grouped in 140 genera and 44 families, were documented. The order Chiroptera is the most diverse, followed by Rodentia, Cetacea, and Carnivora. About 7% of the species are endemic to Costa Rica (or Costa Rica-Nicaragua, Costa Rica-Panamá). Unfortunately, despite of all the efforts to protect our fauna and flora, threat to Costa Rican mammals is increasing, and a number of species have gone, and are going extinct. As in most other areas, habitat loss, both in terrestrial and coastal ecosystems, poses the greatest threat to mammalian diversity of Costa Rica. Other factors, such as poaching, inappropriate gear used in fisheries, and other human exploitation are also threatening mammal populations in Costa Rica. Future conservation efforts should focus on more detailed conservation and management strategies, particularly of large mammals (e.g. monkeys, felids).Key words: Costa Rica, species richness, mammals, conservation, endemism.
Vertebrados post-glaciales en un residuario fósil de Tyto alba scopoli (Aves: Tytonidae) en el occidente de
Authors: Vázquez Osvaldo Jiménez , Condis Marjorie M. , Cancio Elvis García
Published: August 2019

Resumen: Se estudió un depósito fosilífero cavernario localizado en el occidente de Cuba y constituido por regurgitaciones de estrígidas. Este depósito fue el resultado de la actividad trófica de la lechuza (Tyto alba), la cual depredó anfibios, reptiles, aves y mamíferos, y fue fechado entre el Holoceno Temprano a Medio (C 14 -7 864 ± 96 años AP). Este estudio mostró una panorámica de la fauna antigua procedente de paisajes terrestres con bosques húmedos en sabanas, con posterioridad a la culminación de la última fase árida del Pleistoceno-Holoceno.    Palabras clave: Paleontología; Tafonomía, Tyto alba, Regurgitaciones, Pleistoceno-Holoceno, Cuba. Abstract: A cave fossiliferous deposit formed for barn owl pellets in western part of Cuba are studied. This were results barn owl (Tyto alba) predation on amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals and are dated in Early-Middle Holocene (C 14 -7 864 ± 96 years BP). These studies show an ancient faunal picture from terrestrial landscapes with moist forest in savannas after last Pleistocene-Holocene arid period. Key  words: Paleontology, Tafonomy, Tyto alba, ,Regurgitations, Pleistocene-Holocene.
Mamíferos del bosque mesófilo de montaña del Municipio de San Felipe Usila, Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, México
Authors: Pérez-Lustre Martín , Díaz Rusby Guadalupe Contreras , Moreno Antonio Santos
Published: August 2019

Resumen: Se realizó el inventario de la mastofauna en el Bosque Mesófilo de Montaña del Municipio de San Felipe Usila en el Distrito de Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, durante cinco periodos mensuales de julio a noviembre de 2005.  Se registraron representantes de cinco ordenes, 11 familias, 22 géneros y 23 especies, de las cuales una es endémica, siete están incluidas en alguna categoría de riesgo de acuerdo a normas nacionales e internacionales y cuatro son consideradas indicadoras de buena calidad ambiental, que incluyen tres quirópteros y un carnívoro.  Las especies más abundantes fueron el murciélago Sturnira ludovici y el roedor Peromyscus mexicanus. Palabras clave: Riqueza de especies, Bosque Mesófilo de Montaña, San Felipe Usila, Oaxaca, México. Abstract:  A mammal inventory of the cloud forest area of San Felipe Usila town, Tuxtepec, Oaxaca was carried out.  The Santa Cruz Tepetotutla and San Antonio del Barrio communities were sampled between July and November 2005.  We recorded five orders, 11 families, 22 genera, and 23 species, one species is endemic, seven are considered endangered according to national and international laws, and four are indicators of good quality of the environment, included three bats and one carnivore.  The most abundant species was the bat Sturnira ludovici and the rodent Peromyscus mexicanus. Key words: Species richness, Cloud forest, San Felipe Usila, Oaxaca, Mexico.
Northern-most record of the collared anteater (Tamandua mexicana) from the Pacific slope of Mexico
Authors: Burton Andrew M. , González Gerardo Ceballos
Published: August 2019

Abstract: We report the first record for the collared anteater (Tamandua mexicana) from Colima, Mexico. This record represents a northern range expansion along the Pacific slope. The presence of T. mexicana in Colima can be explained by two different mutually exlcusive hypotheses; the first is that the species has been historically present and was not recorded earlier; the second one is that the collared anteater has just recently dispersed into the state. We strongly support the second hypothesis. Key words: Tamandua mexicana, Colima, record. Palabras clave: Tamandua mexicana, Colima, nuevo registro.