bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mortality is Not Increased with Diabetes in Hospitalized Very Elderly A multi-site Review.
Authors: Smerdely Peter
Published: June 2020

Objective: As there is little data about hospital outcomes in people with diabetes aged beyond 75, this study aimed to explore the association of diabetes with hospital outcome of patients aged greater than 65 years.Design: A retrospective review was conducted of all presentation of patients age 65 years or more admitted to 3 Sydney teaching hospitals over a 6 year period (2012-2018) exploring primarily the outcomes of in hospital mortality and secondarily the outcomes of length of stay, the development of hospital acquired adverse events and unplanned re-admission to hospital within 28 days of discharge. Demographic and outcome data, the presence of diabetes and co-morbidities was determined from ICD10 coding within the hospital’s electronic medical record. Logistic and negative binomial regression models were used to assess association of diabetes with outcome. Results: Of the 139130 separations included, the mean age was 80 years (range 65 to 107 years); 51% were female, 49% had comorbidities. 26.1% had a diagnosis of diabetes. When compared to people without diabetes, diabetes was not associated with increased odds of mortality (OR: 0.89 SE(0.02), p<0.001). Further, because of a significant interaction with age, diabetes was associated with decreased odds of mortality beyond 80 years of age. While diabetics overall had longer lengths of stay (10.2 days SD (13.4) v 9.4 days SD (12.3), p<0.001), increasing age was associated with shorter lengths of stay in people aged more than 90 years. Diabetes was associated with increased odds of hospital acquired adverse events (OR: 1.09 SE (0.02), p<0.001) and but not 28 day readmission (OR: 0.88 SE(0.18), p=0.523).Conclusion: Diabetes has not been shown to have a negative impact on mortality or length of stay in the hospitalized very elderly from data derived from hospital administrative records.
Primary Care in Supplementary Health: impact on care costs of elderly patients with heart disease
Authors: Marques Geórgia Silva , Almeida Alessandra Maciel , Gomes Isabel Cristina , Silva Michele Renata Barbosa da , Rezende Bruno Almeida
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Population aging has been changing the epidemiological profile in the World. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in many countries and have an impact on health spending. Objectives: To identify factors that influence health care costs in elderly patients with heart disease treated at a Supplementary Primary Health Care (PHC) unit in Brazil. Methods: Retrospective cohort of 223 patients with heart disease aged ≥ 60 years from one year before and one year after PHC implantation. Data were obtained from electronic medical records and the costs in the total cost of care database (hospital, outpatient and home). Patients were classified according to the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index (CFVI-20). Results: There was no reduction in total costs, but it occurred in hospitalization expenses after the implementation of PHC for the whole sample (mean ± SD, US$ 698.43 ± US$ 3,500.76, p=0.011), with a significant reduction among (p=0.023), pre-diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) (p=0.023), eutrophic BMI (p=0.027), non-smokers (p=0.020), and robust according to the CFVI-20 (p=0.013). There was a decrease in the frequency of hospitalization for the whole sample (p=0.006), among males (p=0.014), age between 71 and 80 years (p=0.001), robust (p=0.025) and AMI (p= 0.027). There was a reduction in the frequency of consultations in the Emergency Department among fragile elderly (p=0.011). Conclusions: There was a reduction in the frequency and cost of hospitalization in elderly patients with heart disease in follow-up at PHC, in addition to reducing the frequency of consultation in PHC in the fragile elderly.
Revisiting Methods For Modeling Longitudinal and Survival Data: The Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Ngwa Julius S , Cabral Howard J , Cheng Debbie M , Gagnon David R , LaValley Michael P , Cupples L. Adrienne
Published: June 2020

Background
Statistical methods for modeling longitudinal and time-to-event data has received much attention in medical research and is becoming increasingly useful. In clinical studies, such as cancer and AIDS, longitudinal biomarkers are used to monitor disease progression and to predict survival. These longitudinal measures are often missing at failure times and may be prone to measurement errors. More importantly, time-dependent survival models that include the raw longitudinal measurements may lead to biased results. In previous studies these two types of data are frequently analyzed separately where a mixed effects model is used for the longitudinal data and a survival model is applied to the event outcome.
Methods
In this paper we compare joint maximum likelihood methods, a two-step approach and a time dependent covariate method that link longitudinal data to survival data with emphasis on using longitudinal measures to predict survival. We apply a Bayesian semi-parametric joint method and maximum likelihood joint method that maximizes the joint likelihood of the time-to-event and longitudinal measures. We also implement the Two-Step approach, which estimates random effects separately, and a classic Time Dependent Covariate Model. We use simulation studies to assess bias, accuracy and coverage probabilities for the estimates of the link parameter that connects the longitudinal measures to survival times.
Results
Simulation results demonstrate that Two-Step approach performed best at estimating the link parameter when variability in the longitudinal measure is low but is somewhat biased downwards when the variability is high. Bayesian semi-parametric and maximum likelihood joint methods yield higher link parameter estimates with low and high variability in the longitudinal measure. Time Dependent Covariate method resulted in consistent underestimation of the link parameter. We illustrate these methods using data from the Framingham Heart Study in which lipid measurements and Myocardial Infarction data were collected over a period of 26 years.
Conclusions
Traditional methods for modeling longitudinal and survival data, such as time dependent covariate method, that use the observed longitudinal data, tend to provide downward bias estimates. Two-step approach and joint models provide better estimates, although a comparison of these methods may depend on the underlying residual variance.
Managing Patient Flows in Radiation Oncology - Reworking Existing Treatment Designs to Prevent Infections During the COVID-19 Pandemic at a German University Hospital
Authors: Akuamoa-Boateng MBA Dennis , Wegen Simone , Ferdinandus Justin , Marksteder Regina , Baues Christian , Marnitz Simone
Published: June 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Impact of Health Education Intervention On Knowledge And Prevalence Of Hypertension Among Market Traders In Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Eze Irene Ifeyinwa , Onwe Emeka Ogah , Mbachu Chinyere Ojiugo , Ossai Edmund Ndudi , Umeokonkwo Chukwuma David , Okedo-Alex Ijeoma Nkem , Ogbonnaya Lawrence Ulu
Published: June 2020

Background: Hypertension is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in adult populations due to complications arising from late detection and poor blood pressure control. Health education has been proven to be an effective strategy in prevention and control of hypertension. However, it’s effectiveness among informal sector workers is under-explored. This study assessed the effect of health education on knowledge of hypertension and its prevalence among market traders in Southeast Nigeria. Methods: The study was conducted in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Southeast Nigeria using a non-randomized experimental study design comprising an intervention arm and a control arm. Systematic random sampling was used to select 376 adult market traders into the study. Baseline data were collected on participants’ knowledge of hypertension using pretested structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and on their blood pressure status. The intervention group received health education on risk factors, complications, treatment, prevention and early detection of hypertension, while the control group did not. A post-study assessment was carried out after six months using the same study instruments. Bi-variate and multivariate analyses were carried out and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 Results: The proportion of traders in the intervention group with good knowledge of hypertension increased from 20.7% to 80.7% post intervention (p<0.001); the difference in the control group was not statistically significant. Prevalence of hypertension decreased by 9.8% (p<0.001) from the baseline value of 38.8% in the intervention group but increased in the control group. Predictors of hypertension included having good knowledge of hypertension (AOR: 0.4; CI: 0.2-0.9), being ≥40years (AOR: 2.9; CI: 1.3-6.4), and being single or unmarried (AOR: 2.4; CI: 1.1–5.9) Conclusions: Blood pressure education intervention was effective in improving knowledge of hypertension and reducing prevalence of hypertension. This demonstrates the need to regularly educate market traders on the risk factors, complications, treatment, prevention and early detection of high blood pressure.
CYR61 synthesis is Induced by Interleukin-6 and Promotes Migration and Invasion of Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Choi Changmin , Jeong Wooseong , Ghang Byeongzu , Park Yonggeun , Cho Moonjae , Kim Jinseok
Published: June 2020

Background:Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is involved in fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) activation and promotes pannus formation and bone and cartilage destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Cysteine-rich 61 (Cyr61) protein regulates cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of Cyr61 in RA-FLS migration and invasion after IL-6 stimulation. Methods:Western blotting and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to examine protein and mRNA levels of Cyr61, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and other signalling proteins. Knockdown of gene expression was performed with siRNA, and RNA sequencing was performed for differential gene analysis. Migration and invasion were assessed by wound healing and Boyden chamber assays. Results:Cyr61 levels were elevated in FLSs from RA patients compared to those in osteoarthritis patients. Control and IL-6-treated FLSs showed differential gene expression. IL-6 stimulated protein synthesis of Cyr61, which was attenuated by the extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) inhibitor, PD98059, and knockdown of early growth response 3 (EGR3), but not of JUN. IL-6-induced Cyr61 protein synthesis increased expression of MMP2. Cyr61 promoted FLS migration and invasion in an autocrine manner. Knockdown of CYR61 and a neutralizing antibody attenuated Cyr61 synthesis and IL-6 induced FLS migration. Conclusions:By modulating the ERK/EGR3 pathway, IL-6 stimulated Cyr61 production and in turn increasedinvasiveness of FLS. Our data suggest that Cyr61 might be a potential target to prevent the progression of joint damage in RA.
In Utero and Peripubertal Metals Exposure in Relation to Reproductive Hormones and Sexual Maturation and Progression among Boys in Mexico City
Authors: Ashrap Pahriya , Meeker John D. , Sánchez Brisa N. , Basu Niladri , Tamayo-Ortiz Marcela , Solano-González Maritsa ,   Adriana Mercado-García4, Téllez-Rojo Martha M. , Peterson Karen E. , Watkins Deborah
Published: June 2020

Background

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as metals have been reported to alter circulating reproductive hormone concentrations and pubertal development in animals. However, the relationship has rarely been investigated among humans, with the exception of heavy metals, such as Pb and Cd. Our aim was to investigate measures of in utero and peripubertal metal exposure in relation to reproductive hormone levels and sexual maturation and progression among boys from the Early Life Exposure in Mexico to Environmental Toxicants (ELEMENT) cohorts.

Methods

Our analysis included 118 pregnant women and their male children from the ELEMENT study. Essential and non-essential metals were measured in urine collected from the mothers during the third trimester of pregnancy and their male children at 8-14 years. Reproductive hormone levels [serum testosterone, estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), inhibin B, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)] were measured in blood samples from the children at 8-14 years. We also assessed Tanner stages for sexual maturation (genital, pubic hair development, and testicular volume), at two time points (8–14, 10-18 years). We used linear regression to independently examine urinary metal levels in relation to each peripubertal reproductive hormones adjusting for child age and BMI. Generalized estimation equations (GEEs) were used to evaluate the association of in utero and peripubertal metal exposures with sexual maturation and progression during follow-up based on Tanner staging and testicular volume.

Results

In utero and prepubertal concentrations of some urinary metals were associated with increased levels of peripubertal reproductive hormones, especially non-essential metal(loid)s As and Cd ( in utero ), and Ba (peripubertal) as well as essential metal Mo ( in utero ) in association with testosterone. More advanced pubic hair developmental stage and higher testicular volume at the early teen visit was observed for boys with higher non-essential metal concentrations, including in utero Al and peripubertal Ba, and essential metal Zn concentration (peripubertal). These metals were also associated with slower pubertal progression between the two visits.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that male reproductive development may be associated with both essential and non-essential metal exposure during in utero and peripubertal windows.
Clinical features and etiology of patients with community-acquired pneumonia in southern China
Authors: Gan Caiyan , Liu Sudong , Guo Xuemin , Weng Ruiqiang , Gu Xiaodong , Zhong Zhixiong
Published: June 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical features and etiology in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in southern China. Methods: A total of 342 patients who presented community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) from January 2019 to December 2019 were enrolled in this study. The respiratory pathogens in nine test and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) detection were used to identify pathogens. Results: The mean age of this study population was 60.89 ± 18.87 years. The total incidences of CAP were more prevalent in males (60.5%, 207/342) than females (39.5%, 135/342), and the percentage was 65.8% (225/342) CAP patients in summer and autumn. The main causative pathogens were identified in 96/342 (28.1 %) patients. Of these, 14 (14.6 %) were MP infection, the most frequently isolated microorganism. Bacterial infection in the single infection was present in 47 (47/96, 49.0%). Mixed infections were demonstrated in 26 (26/96, 27.1%). MRSA infection was close to patients with systemic diseases (P = 0.001). Factors that were associated with systemic disease was the age >65 (OR 5.555, 95%CI 3.402-9.071, P<0.001). Conclusions: MP is common organisms isolated in community-acquired pneumonia. The year of above 65, the count of WBC and mixed pathogens infections may be associated with an increased risk of CAP patients with systemic disease.
MIR-361-5P Mediates TGF-β Signalling to Promote Granulosa Cell Apoptosis Through Vegfa During Porcine Follicle Atresia
Authors: Ma Mengnan , Gao Xiaomeng , Yao Wang , Pan Zengxiang , zhang jinbi
Published: June 2020

Background: Follicular atresia is an inevitable degenerative process of ovarian follicles in mammals. The molecular events involved in atresia, particularly in granulosa cell apoptosis, have always attracted researchers’ attention. It is known that VEGFA isdownregulated during follicular atresia in pig ovaries and serves as an apoptosis inhibitor of granulosa cells. Besides, the TGF-β signalling has been considered as a central trigger in granulosa cell apoptosis. However, the link between TGF-β signalling and VEGFA is missing.Results:We proved that miR-361-5p significantly up-regulated during the atresia process andenhances GC apoptosis by direct targeting to VEGFA 3’UTR. In addition,we revealed that miR-361-5p coding geneMIR361was significant downregulation bySMAD4, the central intracellular mediator of TGF-β signalling,through promoter binding.Conclusions: Our findingsenriched the knowledge of VEGFA post-transcriptional regulation and completed the TGF-β/miR-361-5p/VEGFAregulatory networkin ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis. It offereduseful references for follicular atresia and ovarian physiological function studies.
Prognostic value of Cardiac Biomarkers in COVID-19 Infection: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Dawson Desiree , Dominic Paari , Sheth Aakash , Modi Malak
Published: June 2020

BackgroundMultiple Biomarkers have recently been shown to be elevated in COVID-19, a respiratory infection with multi-organ dysfunction; however, information regarding the prognostic value of cardiac biomarkers as it relates to disease severity and cardiac injury are inconsistent.Research QuestionThe goal of this meta-analysis was to summarize the evidence regarding the prognostic relevance of cardiac biomarkers from data available in published reports.Study Design and MethodsPubMed was searched from inception through April 2020 for studies comparing median values of cardiac biomarkers in critically ill versus non-critically ill COVID-19 patients, or patients who died versus those who survived. The weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) between the groups were calculated for each study and combined using a random effects meta-analysis model. The odds ratio (OR) for mortality based on cardiac injury was combined from studies reporting it.ResultsTroponin levels were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients who died or were critically ill versus those who were alive or not critically ill (WMD 0.58, 95% CI 0.42-0.71, p<0.001). Cardiac injury was independently associated with significantly increased odds of mortality (OR 6.641, 95% CI 1.26 - 35.1, p=0.03). No difference in BNP was seen between the two groups. A significant difference in levels of D-dimer was seen in those who died or were critically ill. CK levels were only significantly higher in those who died versus those who were alive (WMD 0.47 95% CI 0.09-0.84, p=0.014).InterpretationCardiac biomarkers add prognostic value to the determination of the severity of COVID-19 and can predict mortality.
Karayolu Kenarındaki Heyelan Bölgesinin Bazı Toprak Özelliklerinin Belirlenmesi: Lapseki-Şevketiye (Çanakkale) Örnek Çalışması
Authors: PARLAK Mehmet
Published: June 2020

Heyelanlar önemli çevre sorunları ortaya çıkarmaktadırlar. Karayolu kenarındaki heyelanlar doğal bir olay olup dik eğim, yağış ve toprak özelliklerinin etkisiyle oluşurlar. Heyelanların neden olduğu çevre sorunlarından birisi de verimli üst toprağın kaybını takiben alanın verimliliğinin azalarak arazi bozulmasının görülebilmesidir. Bu araştırma Çanakkale-Bursa karayolu kenarındaki bir heyelanın (Şevketiye) içinden ve buğday tarlasından alınan toprakların (0-10 cm derinlik) bazı özelliklerini (pH, elektriksel iletkenlik, kireç, organik madde, toplam azot (N), alınabilir fosfor (P), alınabilir potasyum (K), tekstür, agregat stabilitesi, likit limit, plastik limit, plastiklik indeksi ve kil aktivitesi) karşılaştırmak için yapılmıştır. Toprak özelliklerinin karşılaştırılmasında t testi kullanılmıştır. Heyelanın içinden alınanlara göre buğday tarlasından alınan toprak örneklerinde elektriksel iletkenlik (EC), organik madde, alınabilir potasyum (K), kil, silt ve plastiklik indeksi yüksek; pH ve ince kum miktarları ise daha düşük saptanmıştır. Kireç, toplam azot (N), alınabilir fosfor (P), kaba kum, likit limit, plastik limit ve kil aktivitesi bakımından istatistik olarak önemli farklılıklar saptanmamıştır. Toprak özelliklerini iyileştirmek için heyelandan etkilenen alanlara hayvan gübresi, hasat artıkları veya kompost uygulanmalıdır.
Use of a self-rotating nozzle for more efficient flash purification of dirty water
Authors: Sonawan Hery , Aprillianto Kiki
Published: June 2020

An efficient flash-purification system has been developed using a self-rotating nozzle powered by the feed-water flow. Where an electrically-powered, rotating nozzle distributes water droplets evenly in a flashing chamber to increase the evaporation rate, a self-rotating nozzle creates a continuous flow of droplets at the chamber wall by impact momentum effects. The aim of this study was to design and test a new self-rotating nozzle to improve the condensation rate in the flash-purifier. The device investigated employed a self-rotating nozzle of innovative design. The new system was constructed successfully and tested under conditions in which the vacuum and feed-water pressures, and the temperature were varied to maximize the condensation rate. Factorial design methodology showed that vacuum pressure was the most influential variable for condensation rate. The highest condensation rate achieved was 0.0748 ml/s, obtained from a combination of 2.0 bar-g feed-water pressure, vacuum pressure 0.3 bar-a and feed-water temperature 60 °C. Previous studies involved an electric rotating nozzle that generated 0.061 ml/s, but this study proved the efficiency of the self-rotating nozzle by producing a higher condensation rate.
Change dynamics of land-use and land-cover for tropical wetland management
Authors: López N. , Márquez Romance A. , Guevara Pérez E.
Published: June 2020

In hydrographic basins with wetlands, changes in land use (LU) and land cover (LC) impact the conservation of natural resources, leading to dynamics analysis for integral management. A method is proposed offering greater accuracy in determining the LU and LC bi-temporal and spatial change dynamics in tropical wetlands. LU and LC monitoring is based on Landsat images from 1986 to 2017. ‘Pre-classification’ and ‘post-classification’ methods are applied. In the former, reflectance image differencing and principal component N° 1 image differencing are analyzed to estimate the rate of change/no change area. In the latter, supervised classification is carried out of image pairs from different dates. The principal components method shows that principal component N° 1 collects between 88 and 93% of the reflectance variance in n spectral bands of each satellite image, which improves accuracy in determining LU and LC change dynamics.
Phosphate sequestration and recovery from eutrophication water by in situ magnesium phosphate formation
Authors: Xie Fazhi , Song Kang , Geng Shixiong , Li Lu
Published: June 2020

Phosphate removal from eutrophic lakes has caused wide concern in the world, while an effective process is still lacking. A novel synthetic magnesium carbonate with spherical flower-like structure (MCSF) was prepared. Its performance for phosphorus adsorption from a eutrophic lake by in situ magnesium phosphate formation was tested and characterized. The effect of initial phosphorus concentration, adsorption time, adsorption dose, temperature, ionic strength and pH on phosphorus adsorption by MCSF was investigated. Results showed that higher initial phosphorus concentration and longer adsorbing time could improve the adsorption capacity. The maximum sorption capacity was 143.27 mg/g under initial pH value 7.0. The phosphate adsorption process was fitted with the Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second-order model. Thermodynamic parameter values revealed that the sorption process at 298–318 K was spontaneous and endothermic. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization of MCSF revealed that electrostatic attraction and chemical conversion were the major contributors for phosphate adsorption. MCSF releases magnesium ions from its surface and rapidly combines with phosphate to form insoluble magnesium phosphate precipitate. The prepared MCSF has the potential to be used for the restoration of eutrophic lakes by removing phosphate with higher adsorption capacity.
Evaluation of solar light inactivation on multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli CGMCC 1.1595
Authors: Yin Xiu-Feng , Shi Na , Meng Ting , Sun Ying-Xue
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the simulated solar light disinfection of Escherichia coli CGMCC 1.1595, a multidrug-resistant (MDR) strain resistant to tetracycline and ampicillin. With the increase of light intensity, the maximum inactivation efficiency reached 0.74 log in 60 min following visible light irradiation with an intensity of 115.8 mW/cm2 and following UVA–visible light irradiation, using a 98% UVA-ray contribution at 6.5 mW/cm2 and 95% contribution at 20.0 mW/cm2, the inactivation efficiency was up to 6.09 log. The inactivated MDR E. coli did not regrow after light irradiation or in the dark after 24 or 48 h after visible light disinfection, demonstrating that visible light disinfection can prevent MDR E. coli self-repair. The MDR E. coli plasmid electrophoresis band gradually went dark with increase of the light irradiation time and could be completely eliminated by high UVA light intensity treatment, however, simulated sunlight irradiation had minimal influence on both tetracycline and ampicillin resistance of the MDR E. coli strain.
Inactivation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes by electrochemical oxidation/electro-Fenton process
Authors: Chen Lei , Zhou Zhi , Shen Chaofeng , Xu Yilu
Published: June 2020

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment are of great concern due to their potential risk to human health. The effluents from wastewater treatment plants and livestock production are major sources of ARB and ARGs. Chlorination, UV irradiation, and ozone disinfection cannot remove ARGs completely. In this study, the potential of electrochemical oxidation and electro-Fenton processes as alternative treatment technologies for inactivation of ARB and ARGs in both intracellular and extracellular forms was evaluated. Results showed that the electrochemical oxidation process was effective for the inactivation of selected ARB but not for the removal of intracellular ARGs or extracellular ARGs. The electro-Fenton process was more effective for the removal of both intracellular and extracellular ARGs. The removal efficiency after 120 min of electro-Fenton treatment under 21.42 mA/cm2 was 3.8 logs for intracellular tetA, 4.1 logs for intracellular ampC, 5.2 logs for extracellular tetA, and 4.8 logs for extracellular ampC, respectively in the presence of 1.0 mmol/L Fe2+. It is suggested that electrochemical oxidation is an effective disinfection method for ARB and the electro-Fenton process is a promising technology for the removal of both intracellular and extracellular ARGs in wastewater.
A water resistance magnetic graphene-anchored zeolitic imidazolate framework for efficient adsorption and removal of residual tetracyclines in wastewater
Authors: Wang Zelan , Chen XiaoYan , Meng Zhe , Zhao Mengxin , Zhan Haijuan , Liu Wanyi
Published: June 2020

Water-resistant magnetic graphene-anchored zeolite imidazolate (Fe3O4/ZIF-8-G) composite materials with the largest surface area are formed by directly growing a hydrophobic ZIF-8 skeleton onto a graphene support through self-assembly in methanol. Fe3O4/ZIF-8-G hybrid composite has water resistance and super strong adsorption capacity, and is used as an effective adsorbent for adsorption and removal of residual tetracycline in wastewater. The morphologies and structure, as well as water resistance of Fe3O4/ZIF-8-G, were characterized using FT-IR, XRD, SEM, TEM, TGA, N2 adsorption and pHPZC. The adsorption for tetracycline (TC), oxytetracycline (OTC) and chlortetracycline (CTC) followed pseudo-second-order kinetics and fitted the Freundlich adsorption model with the simultaneous adsorption capacity for TC (382.58 mg g−1), OTC (565.94 mg g−1) and CTC (608.06 mg g−1) at pH 5–6 for 10 h. These were much higher than previously reported results for the removal of tetracycline from aqueous solutions. The used Fe3O4/ZIF-8-G could be effectively reused and recycled at least five times without significant loss of adsorption capacity. The hydrophobic and π-π interaction between the aromatic rings of TCs and the aromatic imidazole rings of the ZIF-8-G framework were the main adsorption mechanism on the surface of Fe3O4/ZIF-8-G. Constructing a hydrophobic surface of ZIF-8/G framework resulted in a reduction of the hydrophilic sites of the surface. This can improve stability and selective adsorption of ZIF-8-G framework. In addition, the results show no significant difference in the adsorption kinetics and adsorption capacity of Fe3O4/ZIF-8-G for TC, OTC and CTC in pure water and wastewater.
Degradation of high-concentration p-nitrophenol by Fenton oxidation
Authors: Lin Xiao Qing , Kong Wei Min , Lin Xiao
Published: June 2020

This work aimed to degrade high-concentration p-nitrophenol (PNP) by Fenton oxidation. We studied various reaction parameters during Fenton oxidation, such as the iron dosage (as Fe2+), the initial concentration and temperature of PNP, and the dosage of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), especially the influence of temperature on the PNP degradation rate and degree. Under the addition of the same molar ratio of H2O2/Fe2+ and H2O2 dosage according to the theoretical stoichiometry, the PNP degradation rate and the removal rate of total organic carbon (TOC) increased significantly with the increase in the initial PNP concentration. Moreover, the oxidative degradation effect was significantly affected by temperature. The increased reaction temperature not only significantly reduced the Fe2+ dosage, but also greatly promoted the removal rate of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and TOC, and improved the utilization efficiency of H2O2. For example, when the initial concentration of PNP was 4,000 mg·L−1, and the dosage of Fe2+ was 109 mg·L−1 (H2O2/Fe2+ = 200), the removal rates of COD and TOC at 85 °C reached 95% and 71% respectively. Both were higher than the 93% COD removal rate and 44% TOC removal rate when the dosage of Fe2+ was 1,092 mg·L−1 (H2O2/Fe2+ = 20) at room temperature.
Şizofreni Hastalarında Klinik Semptomların Obsesif Kompülsif Bozukluk Eş Tanısıyla ve Obsesif Kompülsif Semptomlarla İlişkisinin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: KOKURCAN Ahmet
Published: June 2020

Amaç: Şizofrenide obsesif kompülsif semptomların (OKS) ve obsesif kompülsif bozukluğun (OKB) görülme sıklığı yüksek olup; şizofrenide OKS/OKB eş tanısının özelliklerini araştıran çalışmalarda çelişkili sonuçlar elde edilmiştir. Bu çalışmada şizofreni hastalarında OKS/OKB eş tanısının sosyodemografik ve klinik özellikler ile ilişkisinin değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır.
Gereç ve Yöntemler: Bu çalışmaya Dışkapı Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi Psikiyatri Polikliniğine başvuran 280 şizofreni hastası dahil edilmiştir. Çalışmaya alınan Pozitif ve Negatif Belirtileri Değerlendirme Ölçeği (SAPS-SANS), Calgary Şizofrenide Depresyon Ölçeği (CŞDÖ) ve Yale Brown Obsesyon Kompülsiyon Ölçeği (YBOKÖ) uygulanmıştır. OKB eş tanısı olmayan hastalar ve eşik altı OKS bulunan hastaların klinik özellikleri ayrı olarak OKB eş tanılı hastaların özellikleriyle karşılaştırılmıştır. İstatistiksel analiz için tanımlayıcı testler ve Pearson korelasyon analizi kullanılmıştır.
Bulgular: OKB eş tanısı olan hastaların SANS, SAPS ve KPDÖ puanları eş tanısı olmayan hastalardan daha yüksek bulunmuştur (p< 0.05). Ayrıca, OKB eş tanılı hastalarda eş tanı bulunmayan hastalara göre daha düşük İGD puanı ile daha yüksek CŞDÖ puanı saptanmıştır (p< 0.05). OKB eşik altı semptomları bulunan hastaların klinik özellikleri SANS ve CŞDÖ puanları OKB eş tanısı bulunan hastalardan istatiksel farklılık göstermemiştir (p> 0.05).
Sonuç: OKB eş tanısı bulunan ve bulunmayan hastaların klinik özellikleri arasında önemli farklılıklar olduğu görülmüştür. OKB eş tanısında pozitif, negatif ve depresif semptom şiddeti daha yüksek işlevsellik ise daha düşük bulunmuştur. Bununla beraber, eşik altı OKS olan hastalar ile OKB eş tanılı hastaların negatif ve depresif belirti şiddetleri arasında anlamlı bir farklılık görülmemiştir. Şizofrenide OKS ve OKB eş tanısının klinik öneminin daha iyi anlaşılabilmesi için prospektif çalışmalara ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır.
Deneysel vazektominin farklı süreler sonrasında erişkin sıçan testisinde oluşturduğu değişikliklerin histomorfometrik olarak incelenmesi.
Authors: CUMBUL Alev , ŞAHİNTÜRK Varol , USLU Ünal
Published: June 2020

Amaç: Yapılan hayvan deneylerinde vazektomi sonrası spermatogenetik seride gözlenen ciddi hasarın oluşum mekanizması tam olarak aydınlatılamamıştır. Bu çalışmanın amacı erişkin sıçanların seminifer tübüldeki spermatogenetik serinin yapısal hasarını nitel ve nicel değişkenler yardımıyla mikroskopik olarak açıklamaya çalışmaktır.
Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmada 8 haftalık 48 adet erkek Wistar Albino sıçan kullanıldı. Deney gruplarına tek taraflı vazektomi uygulandı, kontrol grubundaki hayvanlara abdominal kesi yapılıp kapatıldı (her grup için n=8). Deney ve kontrol gruplarındaki sıçanların sol testisleri vazektomiden 1, 12 ve 24 hafta sonrasında perfüzyonla alınarak Bouin’s fiksatifine konuldu. Rutin histolojik takip işleminden sonra her gruptan ikişer adet testis trikrom masson ve orseinle boyanarak ışık mikroskopunda nicel olarak değerlendirildi. Altışar adet testis histomorfometrik inceleme için 1/8 oranında seri kesilerek PAS+Hematoksilenle boyandı. Stereolojik inceleme için Cavalieri ve optik parçalama+optik disektör sondaları kullanıldı.
Bulgular: 1 ve 12 haftalık vazektomi gruplarının spermatagonyum, Sertoli ve myoid hücrelerinin mm3 deki sayılarının kontrole göre arttığı (p<0,001), spermatid sayılarının ise azaldığı (p<0,001) saptandı. 24 haftalık vazektomi grubunda ise seminifer tübülü oluşturan hücrelerin azaldığı görüldü (p<0,001). Nicel değerlendirmede vazektomi sonrası süreye paralel olarak ara maddedeki kollajen lif miktarında artış ve 1 haftalık deney grubunda seminifer tübül lümeninde dev hücre oluşumu gözlemlenmiştir.
Sonuç: Bu bulgulara göre vazektomi sonrasında 12. haftaya kadar seminifer tübül adlüminal ve bazal kompartımanlarında iki farklı mekanizmanın çalıştığı görülmektedir. Bazal kompartımanda gerek parakrin gerekse hücreler arası bağlantılara bağlı bir telafi mekanizması çalışmaktadır. Epididimiste gelişen seminal granülomunun, seminifer tübül iç basıncını artırarak adlüminal kompartımanda spermatid sertoli ilişkisini bozduğu, bunun spermatidlerin olgunlaşamadan hızla dejenere olmasına neden olduğu düşünülmektedir.
Molecular Insights into Zn2+ Inhibition of the Antibacterial Endopeptidase Lysostaphin from Staphylococcus simulans
Authors: Chen Ke , Ojha Suvash Chandra , Imtong Chompounoot , Linn Aung Khine , Li Hui-Chun , Thonabulsombat Charoensri , Angsuthanasombat Chanan
Published: June 2020

Background:

Mature lysostaphin (~28-kDa Lss) from Staphylococcus simulans proves effective in killing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) which is endemic in hospitals worldwide. Lss is Zn2+-dependent endopeptidase, but its bacteriolytic activity could be affected by exogenously added Zn2+.

Objective:

To gain greater insights into structural and functional impacts of Zn2+and Ni2+on Lss-induced bioactivity.

Methods:

Lss purified via immobilized metal ion-affinity chromatography was assessed for bioactivity using turbidity reduction assays. Conformational change of metal ion-treated Lss was examined by circular dichroism and intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy. Co-sedimentation assay was performed to study interactions between Zn2+-treated Lss and S. aureus peptidoglycans. Metal ionbinding prediction and intermolecular docking were used to locate an extraneous Zn2+-binding site.

Results:

A drastic decrease in Lss bioactivity against S. aureus and MRSA was revealed only when treated with Zn2+, but not Ni2+, albeit no negative effect of diethyldithiocarbamate—Zn2+-chelator on Lss-induced bioactivity. No severe conformational change was observed for Lss incubated with exogenous Zn2+or Ni2+. Lss pre-treated with Zn2+efficiently bound to S. aureus cell-wall peptidoglycans, suggesting non-interfering effect of exogenous metal ions on cell-wall targeting (CWT) activity. In silico analysis revealed that exogenous Zn2+, but not Ni2+, preferably interacted with a potential extraneous Zn2+-binding site (His253, Glu318 and His323) placed near the Zn2+-coordinating Lssactive site within the catalytic (CAT) domain.

Conclusion:

Our present data signify the adverse influence of exogenous Zn2+ions on Lss-induced staphylolytic activity through the exclusive presence within the CAT domain of an extraneous inhibitory Zn2+-binding site, without affecting the CWT activity.
The Potential of Natural Diterpenes Against Tuberculosis: An Updated Review
Authors: Ndjoubi Kadidiatou O. , Sharma Rajan , Hussein Ahmed A.
Published: June 2020

Every year, 10 million people are affected by tuberculosis (TB). Despite being a preventable and curable
disease, 1.5 million people die from TB each year, making it the world’s top infectious disease. Many of the
frontline antibiotics cause painful and disagreeable side effects. To mitigate the side effects from the use of
chemically synthesized or clinical anti-tubercular drugs, there are many research studies focussed on natural
products as a source of potential anti-tuberculosis drugs. Among different phytoconstituents, several classes of
diterpenoids exert significant antimicrobial effects. This review explores diterpenoids as potential anti-tubercular
drugs from natural sources. A total of 204 diterpenoids isolated from medicinal plants and marine species are
discussed that inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The literature from 1994-2018 is reviewed, and
158 diterpenoids from medicinal plants, as well as 40 diterpenoids from marines, are alluded to have antituberculosis
properties. The antitubercular activities discussed in the review indicate that the type of diterpenoids,
the Mtb strains, substituents attached to diterpenoids and their position in the diterpenoids general skeleton can
change the compounds antimycobacterial inhibitory effects.
A Review of Drug Side Effect Identification Methods
Authors: Deng Shuai , Sun Yige , Zhao Tianyi , Hu Yang , Zang Tianyi
Published: June 2020

Drug side effects have become an important indicator for evaluating the safety of drugs. There are two
main factors in the frequent occurrence of drug safety problems; on the one hand, the clinical understanding of drug
side effects is insufficient, leading to frequent adverse drug reactions, while on the other hand, due to the long-term
period and complexity of clinical trials, side effects of approved drugs on the market cannot be reported in a timely
manner. Therefore, many researchers have focused on developing methods to identify drug side effects. In this review,
we summarize the methods of identifying drug side effects and common databases in this field. We classified
methods of identifying side effects into four categories: biological experimental, machine learning, text mining and
network methods. We point out the key points of each kind of method. In addition, we also explain the advantages
and disadvantages of each method. Finally, we propose future research directions.
Sericin: A Versatile Protein Biopolymer with Therapeutic Significance
Authors: Suryawanshi Rasika , Kanoujia Jovita , Parashar Poonam , Saraf Shubhini. A.
Published: June 2020

Sericin is a unique proteinaceous biopolymer obtained from cocoons of Bombyx Mori. It has become very popular since it is bestowed with numerous health benefits. Sericin is composed of 18 types of amino acids, out of which 8 amino acids play a significant role in human metabolic pathways. Sericin is easily amenable to make into novel dosage forms and also has been conferred with numerous therapeutic activities such as wound healing, antihypertensive, neuro-protective, antitumor, anti-diabetic, anti-wrinkle, anti-ageing and antioxidant amongst various others. This review summarizes the current status of sericin, as a therapeutic moiety with a focus on active constituents as well as their proposed mechanism in the treatment of various chronic diseases. It also summarizes previous and current in-vitro, in-vivo, cell lines studies and clinical trials based pieces of evidence corroborating the therapeutic activities of sericin.
Peptides from Euphausia superba Promote Longitudinal Bone Growth by Accelerating Growth Plate Chondrocyte Proliferation and Hypertrophy
Authors: Dai Yufeng , Li Zhuo , Fu Meng , Li Yanqi , Xue Changhu , Wang Jingfeng
Published: June 2020

Background:

With the improvements in living standards, height is getting more attention.
Malnutrition is one of the main causes of children's short stature; therefore, nutritional intervention in
adolescence is the key to prevent short stature. The peptides from Antarctic Krill (AKPs), the ideal
protein model, act in bone formation and anti-osteoporosis. However, the studies on promoting longitudinal
bone growth by AKPs have not been reported.

Methods:

Three-week-old male ICR mice, to construct the adolescent mice model, randomly divided
into three groups: normal group, casein group (casein, 300 mg/kg·BW), and AKPs group (AKPs, 300
mg/kg·BW). After 21 days of drug administration, the effects of AKPs on serum biochemical indexes
and femur histomorphology of mice, and the mechanism of AKPs promoting longitudinal bone growth
was discussed.

Results:

AKPs significantly increased longitudinal bone growth and improved bone strength. In addition,
AKPs remarkably promoted proliferation and hypertrophy of chondrocytes in the growth plate.
The further mechanism revealed that AKPs increased serum Growth Hormone (GH) and Insulin-Like
Growth Factors-1(IGF-1) contents, which activated the downstream GH/IGF-1 axis signaling pathways.
Moreover, AKPs induced the secretion and expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-
2) and triggered the activation of BMP2-dependent Smads signaling. AKPs also activated Wnt/
β-catenin signaling, and synergistically activated the expression of Runt-related transcription factor 2
(Runx 2) and Osterix (OSX).

Conclusion:

AKPs promoted longitudinal bone growth by activating GH/IGF-1 axis, BMP-2/Smads
and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, suggesting AKPs to be a potential nutrient fortifier for longitudinal bone
growth.
Production and Evaluation of the Properties of HIV-1-Nef-MPER-V3 Fusion Protein Harboring IMT-P8 Cell Penetrating Peptide
Authors: Jahedian Shekoufa , Sadat Seyed Mehdi , Javadi Gholam Reza , Bolhassani Azam
Published: June 2020

Background:

Finding a safe and effective vaccine for HIV-1 infection is still a major
concern.

Objective:

This study aimed to design and produce a recombinant Nef-MPER V3 protein fused with
IMT-P8 using E. coli expression system to provide a potential HIV vaccine with high cellular penetrance.

Methods:

After synthesizing the DNA sequence of the fusion protein, the construct was inserted
into the pET-28 expression vector. The recombinant protein expression was induced using 1 mM
IPTG and the product was purified through affinity chromatography. Characterization of cellular
delivery, toxicity and immunogenicity of the protein was carried out.

Results:

The recombinant protein was expressed and confirmed by the anti-Nef antibody through
western blotting. Data analyses showed that the protein possessed no considerable toxicity effect
and has improved the IMT-P8 penetration rate in comparison to a control sample. Moreover, the antigen
immunogenicity of the protein induced specific humoral response in mice.

Conclusion:

It was concluded that IMT-P8-Nef-MPER-V3 fusion protein has a high penetrance
rate in mammalian cell line and low toxicity, thus it can be potentially considered as a vaccine
against HIV-1.
Inhibitory Effect of Artemisinin on Testosterone Propionate Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Solanki Ayushi , Patel Sandip , Solanki Nilay , Shah Umang
Published: June 2020

Background:

Benign prostate hyperplasia [BPH] is an abnormal growth of prostate observed
commonly in elderly males. Artemisinin has been reported to reduce the levels of testosterone.

Objective:

This study is designed to evaluate the efficacy of Artemisinin on testosterone propionate
[TP] induced benign prostate hyperplasia.

Materials and Methods:

Male Wistar albino rats [n=24] were separated into four groups of six rats
each. Group I served as control and distilled water using tween 80 as an emulsifying agent was
administered subcutaneously. BPH was induced by testosterone propionate 3mg/kg [Group II],
S.C. daily for 28 days. Group III was BPH + Finasteride treated group (10mg/kg orally for 28
days) and BPH + Artemisinin treated group (Group IV) (50 mg/kg orally for 28 days).

Results:

The study results showed significantly high levels of serum prostatic acid phosphatase
(PAP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and an elevation in prostate weight and prostatic index in
Group II (BPH) when compared with Group I. The histopathological examination showed an increase
in the epithelial proliferation of prostatic cells with involutions protruding into the lumen in
BPH group when compared to the normal group. Treatment with Artemisinin (50 mg/kg) reduced
the levels of PAP, LDH, prostate weight and prostatic index to a significant extent and restored the
histoarchitectural features of the cells.

Conclusion:

The present study concludes that Artemisinin is efficacious in testosterone propionate
induced BPH. This could be attributed, at least partly, to its anti-inflammatory property or its role
in testosterone level reduction or as a Vitamin D receptor modulator.
Unique nCoV-2019 (Covid-19) Spike Glycoprotein Processing by Host Protease: Analysis and Implication on Infection
Authors: Basak Ajoy , Basak Sarmistha
Published: June 2020

The current global pandemic outbreak of a novel type of coronavirus termed by the
World Health Organization as COVID-19 became a grave concern and worry to human health and
the world economy. Intense research efforts are now underway worldwide to combat and prevent
the spread of this deadly disease. This zoonotic virus, a native to bat population, is most likely
transmitted to a human via a host reservoir. Due to its close similarity to previously known SARS
CoV (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus) of 2002 and related MERS CoV (Middle
East Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus) of 2012, it is also known as SARS CoV2. But unlike
them, it is far too infectious, virulent and lethal. Among its various proteins, the surface spike glycoprotein
“S” has drawn significant attention because of its implication in viral recognition and
host-virus fusion process. A detailed comparative analysis of “S” proteins of SARS CoV (now
called SARS CoV1), SARS CoV2 (COVID-19) and MERS CoV based on structure, sequence
alignment, host cleavage sites, receptor binding domains, potential glycosylation and Cys-disulphide
bridge locations has been performed. It revealed some key features and variations that may
elucidate the high infection and virulence character of COVID-19. Moreover, this crucial information
may become useful in our quest for COVID-19 therapeutics and vaccines.