bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of surgery following concurrent chemoradiotherapy in cervical adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Ke , Ma Jiabin , Wang Weiping , Zhang Fuquan , Hou Xiaorong , Lian Xin , Yan Junfang , Sun Shuai , Liu Zhikai , Miao Zheng
Published: April 2020

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical significance of adjuvant hysterectomy in patients with cervical adenocarcinoma (AC) primarily treated by definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of cervical AC patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IB-IIIB in our hospital between Jan 2005 and Feb 2016. All patients were treated with external radiation(45-50.4Gy in 25 to 28 fractions) and brachytherapy (27-36Gy in 4 to 7 fractions), combined with concurrent chemotherapy including weekly cisplatin (40 mg/m 2 ) or weekly paclitaxel (75 mg/m 2 ). After CCRT, some patients received chemotherapy or hysterectomy, whereas the rest were followed up for observation. Survival outcomes were compared between patients who underwent hysterectomy after radiotherapy with those who did not. Results: A total of 109 cervical AC patients were enrolled. After a median follow-up duration of 48 months(range, 4-135 months), the 3-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 82.3% and 57.8%, respectively. Fifty-two patients underwent hysterectomy after CCRT. The 3-year OS of surgery group was significantly higher than non-surgery group (68.6% vs. 52.8%, p =0.044). 3-year PFS, local progression-free survival (LPFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) in surgery and non-surgery group were 59.1% vs. 44.7% ( p = 0.087), 87.6% vs. 66.3% ( p = 0.064) and 71.6% vs. 57.0% ( p =0.24), respectively. In subgroup analysis, hysterectomy significantly improved the 3-year PFS (54.1% vs. 18.8%, p =0.039) and 3-year DMFS (64.2% vs. 20.8%, p =0.030) in patients with residual tumor after CCRT, and had a trend in improving 3-year OS (62.8% vs. 37.5%, p =0.062) and 3-year LPFS (82.8% vs. 49.2%, p =0.082). Grade 3 or more late toxicities of urinary and gastro-intestinal systems in surgery and non-surgery groups were observed in 3.8% vs. 3.5%, and 1.9% vs.3.6% cases, respectively. Conclusion: Hysterectomy improved clinical outcomes of cervical AC patients with residual disease after CCRT. For patients with clinical complete response after CCRT, hysterectomy did not bring further survival benefit. The long-term toxicities of post-radiation surgery was tolerable.
Anti-biofilm activity of antimicrobial hypochlorous wound irrigation solutions compared to common wound antiseptics and bacterial resilience in an innovative in-vitro human plasma biofilm model (hpBIOM)
Authors: Rembe Julian-Dario , Huelsboemer Lioba Franziska , Besser Manuela , Stuermer Ewa K.
Published: April 2020

Background Biofilms pose a relevant factor for wound healing impairment in chronic wounds. With 78% of all chronic wounds being affected by biofilms, research in this area is of high priority, especially since data for evidence-based selection of appropriate antimicrobials and antiseptics is scarce. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-biofilm efficacy of commercially available hypochlorous wound irrigation solutions compared to established antiseptics. Methods Using an innovative complex in-vitro human plasma biofilm model (hpBIOM), quantitative reduction of P. aeruginosa , S. aureus and MRSA biofilms by three hypochlorous irrigation solutions (two <0.08% and one 0.2% NaClO) were compared to 0.1% octenidine-dihydrochloride/phenoxyethanol (OCT/PE) and 0.04% polyhexanide (PHMB). Efficacy was compared to a non-challenged planktonic approach as well as with increased substance volume over the prolonged treatment course (up to 72h). Qualitative visualisation of biofilms was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results Both tested antiseptics (OCT/PE and PHMB) induced significant biofilm reductions within 72h, whereby OCT/PE in an increased volume even managed complete eradication of P. aeruginosa and MRSA biofilms after 72h. The tested hypochlorous wound irrigation solutions however achieved no relevant penetration and eradication of biofilms, despite increased volume and exposure. Only 0.2% NaClO managed a low reduction over prolonged treatment time. Conclusion The results in the here used complex human plasma biofilm model closely mimic the clinical situation of a high challenging environment for antimicrobials to perform in. Under these conditions, the low-dosed hypochlorous wound irrigation solutions are significantly less effective than antiseptics and thus unsuitable for biofilm eradication.
Trends in Kaposi sarcoma prevalence at HIV care initiation in adults at a large HIV treatment program in Jos, Nigeria
Authors: Akanbi Maxwell O , Bilaver Lucy. A. , Achenbach Chad , Hirschhorn Lisa. R. , Silas Olugbenga A , Agaba Patricia. A. , Agbaji Oche , Shehu Nathan Y. , Gomerep Simji. S. , Sagay Solomon A. , Hou Lifang , Murphy Robert. L.
Published: April 2020

Background: Improved access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) significantly reduced the prevalence of Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) among patients initiating care for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) care in western nations. A similar pattern has not been universally documented across sub-Saharan Africa where the majority of people with HIV reside. This study examined trends in KS prevalence among adults initiating HIV care in Nigeria from 2006 to 2017.Methods: Data of patients 18 years or older, who initiated HIV care at the Jos University Teaching Hospital HIV clinic Jos, Nigeria from 2006 and 2017, were analyzed. Prevalence of KS over three consecutive four-year periods of increased ART coverage: 2006-2009, 2010-2013 and 2014-2017 were estimated. Logistic regression models were used to compare age- and sex-adjusted trends in KS prevalence rates at HIV care initiation over the three-time periods, and determine independent predictor of KS.Results: Among 16,431 adults who initiated HIV care from January 2006 to Decemeber 2017, mean age 35.1 (9.5) years, 65.7% female, and 51.1% with CD4 T-cell count < 200 cells/mm3; the overall prevalence of KS was 0.59 % (95% CI 0.48-0.72). KS prevalence was lowest at the time of HIV care initiation from 2006-2009 (0.39%; 95% CI 0.29-0.53), peaked at 1.12% (95% CI 0.82-1.52) from 2010-2013 and declined to 0.72% (95% CI 0.42-1.20) from 2014-2017. Compared to 2006-2009, age- and sex-adjusted odds for KS were 2.81 (95% CI 1.83-4.34, p<0.01) for 2010-2013 and 1.74 (95% CI 0.95-3.30, p=0.07) for 2014-2017. Independent predictors of KS were period of enrollment, male sex and low CD4 T-cell count. Conclusion: Expansion of ART access was not associated with a decline in KS prevalence among adults initiating ART in Nigeria.
Organ at risks sparing with simultaneous integrated boost volumetric modulated arc therapy for locally advanced non-small lung cancer: an automated treatment planning study
Authors: Wang Daquan , Chen Jiayun , Zhang Xiaodong , Zhang Tao , Wang Luhua , Feng Qinfu , Zhou Zongmei , Dai Jianrong , Bi Nan
Published: April 2020

Background : The technique of simultaneous integrated boost volumetric modulated arc therapy (SIB-VMAT) have been widely used in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer, however, its dosimetric advantages are seldom reported. This study aimed to investigate the dosimetric benefit of SIB-VMAT compared to conventional VMAT plans (C-VMAT). Methods : Forty patients with stage III non-small cell lung cancer in our hospital were randomly selected for the two type prescriptions. SIB-VMAT and C-VMAT plans were generated for each patient with the same optimization parameter by the automatic treatment planning system (TPS). The prescribed dose was 50.4 Gy in 28 fractions to PTV and 59.92 Gy in 28 fractions to PGTV in SIB-VMAT plans, with 60 Gy in 30 fractions to PTV in C-VMAT plans. Dose-volume metrics for the planning target volume, lung, heart, esophagus and spinal cord were recorded. The quality score (S D ) was used to evaluate organ at risks (OARs) protection for two type prescription plans. Results : Conformal coverage of the PGTV/PTV by the 95% of the prescription dose was well achieved in automated plans. SIB-VMAT plans achieved significantly lower S D values than C-VMAT plans (Mean: 0.064±0.106 vs. 0.145±0.181, P=0.001). Obvious reductions in mean dose, V 30 , V 40 and V 50 of total lung were observed in SIB-VMAT plans compared to C-VMAT plans, with median decreased proportions of 6.5%、8.7%、19.6% and 32.1%. Statistically significant decrease in heart V 30 and V 40 were also achieved in SIB-VMAT plans, with median decreased proportions of 26.1% and 38.8%. SIB-VMAT plans achieved significant reductions in the maximum doses to both esophagus and spinal cord. Conclusions : SIB-VMAT technique could lead to a substantial sparing of normal organs, including lung, heart, esophagus and cord, mainly through reducing high and inter-median dose exposure.
The role of GLUT-1 in upregulation of PD-L1 expression after radiotherapy and PD-L1 is associated with a favourable overall survival in hypopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Shen Li-Fang , Zhou Shui-Hong , Guo Yu
Published: April 2020

Purpose: Although the alteration of tumor immunity after radiotherapy (RT) has been studied widely in recent years, how radiotherapy mediates tumor immunity and whether glycolysis is involved in the mediation in hypopharyngeal cancer are still unclear. This study aimes to determine whether radiotherapy regulates programmed cell death ligand 1( PD-L1) partly via glucose transporter 1(GLUT-1) expression and whether PD-L1 expression predicts overall survival (OS) in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer. Methods: PD-L1, Glut-1 expression and C D4+, CD8+ T cell were detected by immunohistochemistry analysis on 47 pre-RT and 25 post-RT specimens of hypopharyngeal cancer. The changes of these indicators before and after radiotherapy were compared, and their association with overall survival of patients were analyzed. Moreover, we used siRNA-GLUT-1 to inhibit GLUT-1 expression and determined whether GLUT-1 was a key factor involved in mediation of PD-L1 expression by RT in vitro. Results: In multivariate analysis, patients with higher PD-L1 expression (P=0.037), higher CD4+ T cell infiltration (P=0.016) and earlier clinical stage (P=0.019) had favourable OS. The PD-L1 expression and CD4+, CD8+ T cell increased significantly after RT. PD-L1 expression was correlated with Glut-1 in pre-RT (P=0.002), but not after-RT(P=0.051). The PD-L1 expression of FaDu cells was upregulated after RT, especially at 96h after RT in vitro. However, the PD-L1 expression of siRNA-GLUT-1 FaDu cells was significantly decreased at 96h after RT when compared with FaDu cells. Conclusion: The patients with high PD‑L1 expression and CD4+ T cell infiltration might have favourable OS in hypopharyngeal cancer. RT could increase PD-L1 expression and alter tumor immunity, the expression of PD-L1 was correlated with Glut-1, and inhibiting GLUT-1 expression might decrease the expression of PD-L1. GLUT-1 might participate in the alteration of tumor immunity after RT.
Submicroscopic malaria infection is not associated with fever in cross-sectional studies in Malawi
Authors: Vareta Jimmy , Buchwald Andrea G , Barrall Angelica , Cohee Lauren M. , Walldorf Jenny A , Coalson Jenna E , Seydel Karl , Sixpence Alick , Mathanga Don P , Taylor Terrie E , Laufer Miriam K
Published: April 2020

Background: Submicroscopic Plasmodium falciparum infections are widespread in many areas. However, the contribution of these infections to symptomatic malaria is not well understood. In this study we evaluated whether participants with submicroscopic P. falciparum infections have higher prevalence of fever than uninfected participants in southern Malawi.Methods: We enrolled a total of 16,650 children and adults in the course of six cross-sectional surveys during the dry season (October - November) and after the rainy season (April - May) between 2012 - 2014 in three districts in southern Malawi. Demographic and socioeconomic data were collected in conjunction with data on clinical histories, use of malaria preventive measures, and antimalarial medication taken within two weeks of the survey. Axillary temperatures were measured, and blood samples were collected for P. falciparum detection by microscopy and PCR. Participants without malaria parasites detected on microscopy but with a positive PCR for P. falciparum were defined as having submicroscopic infection. Fever was defined as having any one of: reported fever in the past two weeks, reported fever in the past 48 hours, or a temperature of ≥37.5 °C measured at the time of interview.Results: Submicroscopic P. falciparum infections and fever were both detected in 9% of the study population. In the final analysis adjusted for clustering within household and enumeration area, having submicroscopic P. falciparum infection was associated with reduced odds of fever in the dry season (odds ratio = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.33 – 0.82); the association in the rainy season did not achieve statistical significance (odds ratio = 1.20; 95% CI: 0.91 – 1.59). The association between submicroscopic infection and fever was consistent across all age groups. When we limited the definition of fever to temperature of ≥37.5 °C measured at the time of interview, the association was not statistically significant in either the rainy or dry season.Conclusions: In this series of cross-sectional studies in southern Malawi, submicroscopic P. falciparum infection was not associated with increased risk of fever. Submicroscopic detection of the malaria parasite is important in efforts to decrease transmission but is not essential for the clinical recognition of malaria disease.
Modelling based in the stochastic dynamics for the time evolution of the COVID-19
Authors: Lima Leonardo dos Santos
Published: April 2020

The stochastic differential equation (SDE) corresponding to nonlinear Fokker-Planck equation where the nonlinearity appearing in this evolution equation can be interpreted as providing an effective description of a system of particles interacting is obtained. Additionally, we propose a stochastic model for time dynamics of the COVID-19 based in the set of data supported by the Brazilian health agencies.
FaRCa1 Confers Moderate Resistance to the Root Necrosis Form of Strawberry Anthracnose Caused by Colletotrichum acutatum
Authors: Salinas Natalia , Fan Zhen , Peres Natalia , Lee Seonghee , Whitaker Vance M.
Published: April 2020

FaRCa1 is a major locus conferring resistance to anthracnose fruit rot (AFR) caused by Colletotrichum acutatum, an important pathogen of strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa). The objective of this study was to characterize the effects of FaRCa1 on anthracnose root necrosis (ARN) via root inoculations and DNA marker characterization of the locus. A subgenome-specific high-resolution melting (HRM) marker for an insertion/deletion (InDel) near FaRCa1 was designed using the ‘Camarosa’ octoploid reference genome. The marker was used to genotype cultivars and advanced selections studied in two seasons. A root disease screening method was developed in which roots were cut and dipped in a spore suspension before planting, using a mixture of three local isolates of the C. acutatum species complex. ARN was indirectly scored by calculating image-based leaf area differences among inoculated and noninoculated plants. The allele of FaRCa1 conferring resistance to AFR also conferred a significant reduction in ARN. Thus, a robust and easily scored DNA test is now available to breeders for selecting for resistance to both the fruit and root forms of strawberry anthracnose.
Assessment of the Female Fertility of 26 Commercial Lantana camara Cultivars and Six Experimental Lines
Authors: Czarnecki David M. , Deng Zhanao
Published: April 2020

Lantana camara is an important plant for the environmental horticultural industry, yet it can be invasive, cross-pollinating with native lantana and dispersing fruit (and seeds) to natural and agricultural lands. Identification and development of sterile cultivars is much needed to meet industry and consumer needs for noninvasive plant materials. Previously we evaluated the male fertility of 32 L. camara cultivars/breeding lines at five ploidy levels. This study was to assess their female fertility and understand the relationship between female fertility and ploidy level and the production of unreduced female gametes (UFGs) in L. camara. These cultivars/breeding lines significantly varied in percent fruiting plants (6.3% to 100.0%), percent fruiting peduncles (0.3% to 98.8%), fruit per peduncle (0.003 to 7.173), seed germination (0% to 57.1%), and female fertility index (0.003 to 2.998). Certain diploids (e.g., ‘Denholm White’) were highly female-sterile. Eleven of the 13 triploids evaluated were UFG-producing and rather fertile. The two non-UFG-producing triploids had the female fertility index of 0.005, thus most sterile. Tetraploids, especially those producing UFGs, were prolific fruit producers. These results show that ploidy level and UFG production play a significant role in determining fruit (seed) production capacity and female fertility of L. camara. None of the commercial triploid cultivars evaluated reached desirable levels of male and female sterility, indicating a strong need to develop new lantana cultivars that are male- and female-sterile. Our results suggest that production and selection of triploids can be effective to sterilize L. camara, but it is imperative to select diploids and tetraploids that do not produce UFGs as the breeding parents.
Effect of Reduced Irrigation on Growth and Flowering of Coneflower and Sneezeweed
Authors: Bayer Amanda
Published: April 2020

Reduced irrigation (RI) can be used to reduce irrigation volume as well as to control plant growth. The timing and duration of RI applications can affect overall plant growth and flowering. Knowledge of plant response to RI can allow growers to control growth and plant form. The objective of this study was to quantify flower and overall plant growth of ‘PAS702917’coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) and ‘Helbro’ sneezeweed (Helenium hybrida) in response to RI. A soil-moisture sensor automated irrigation system was used to apply four irrigation treatments: RI and well-watered (WW) controls (25% or 38%) and two alternating treatments to apply RI for either the first 2 weeks (25% followed by 38%, RIWW treatment) or final 4 weeks (38% followed by 25%, WWRI treatment) of the 6-week study. For the sneezeweed experiment, RI was reduced to 20%. For coneflower, peduncle length was greater for the WW (36.8 cm) and RIWW treatments (35.7 cm) than the RI (27.0 cm) and WWRI treatments (26.6 cm). Shoot dry weight, compactness, leaf area, and flower number were not significant. For sneezeweed, WW plants were taller (57.2 cm) and had greater shoot dry weight (49.8 g) than plants in other treatments. WW plants also had more flowers (99) than WWRI (63) and RI (67) plants, which were more compact. Total leaf area did not differ between treatments for either species. Total irrigation volume was greatest for WW plants (5.2 and 15.1 L/plant for coneflower and sneezeweed, respectively), with RI at any point during the experiment resulting in water savings.
Asset portfolio maturity changes during the financial crisis: evidence from U.S. banks
Authors: W. Secrest Thomas
Published: April 2020

This paper determines if the maturity structure of commercial banks’ asset portfolios changed as a result of the financial crisis of the late 2000s and whether any changes in the portfolios may be homogeneous across bank size. A proxy for the maturity of rate-sensitive assets is constructed, and it is found that significant changes did begin to occur during the third quarter of 2008. The maturity structure of assets of relatively small banks gradually began to increase before leveling off six years later. The maturity of larger bank asset portfolios had been falling and continued to decrease for three more years, until reversing during the 3rd quarter of 2011. Large banks also have significantly shorter-term portfolios compared to their smaller counterparts, which tend to be very similar regardless of their small size. The composition of banks’ asset portfolios is also examined with some notable differences among banks of different size.
Distribution and Trend Analysis of COVID-19 in India: Geospatial Approach
Authors: Murugesan Bagyaraj , Karuppannan Shankar , Mengistie Alemayehu Tenaw , Ranganathan Muthukumarasamy , Gopalakrishnan Gnanachandrasamy
Published: April 2020

COVID-19 Coronavirus is now one of the most contagious diseases of the recently discovered and spread across the China in 2019 and has received global attention. In most COVID-19-infected individuals, respiratory symptoms should be mild to moderate and improve without the need for medical care. The risk of serious disease is higher for senior citizens and people with serious health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, severe respiratory disease, and cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally declared the outbreak of COVID-19 to be a global pandemic. As on 11th April 2020 in India the largest number of persons testing positive for COVID-19 since the outbreak earlier month with samples of people, mostly contacts of already confirmed patients, rendering positive. In India total confirmed cases 7364, 633 are cured/discharged, with 240 deaths had been reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Government of India. The aim of the research is to analyze the spatial distribution of COVID-19 and its trends with the help of GIS software. At this time, there are no precise antibiotics or treatment options for COVID-19. Besides, several ongoing clinical studies are assessing effective treatments. The best way to protect and sluggish transmission should be well advised about the current COVID-19 virus, the disease it triggers and also how it continues to spread. Therefore, monitoring active ties using GIS spatial analysis is very important to control such as a COVID-19 virus spreading problem.
Effects of vegetation lodging on overland runoff flow regime and resistance
Authors: Zhang Jingzhou , Zhang Shengtang , Li Guibao , Liu Ming , Chen Si
Published: April 2020

Vegetation is a vital part of the natural environment. Variations in vegetation morphology produce changes in the mechanical and fluid characteristics of overland flow. Determining the effects of vegetation lodging on the overland runoff flow regime and resistance is a prerequisite for accurately simulating overland runoff and convergence, revealing the mechanism of overland flow propagation, and the design and management of vegetation protection, soil consolidation, and ecological slope engineering. To systematically study the effects of vegetation lodging on overland runoff, four planting vegetation lodging angles (α) and 10 test water depths were used to simulate experimental research with a 1.0% slope ratio. Experimental results show that the depth and state of vegetation inundation and the degree of lodging significantly influence the flow regime and resistance. Under the same water depth, higher values of α are associated with higher values of the flow velocity, Reynolds number, Froude number, and Darcy–Weisbach resistance coefficient (f), and lower values of the drag coefficient (CD). The overall result is enhanced turbulence in the flow field and weaker flow resistance. Numerical statistics and difference analysis indicate that, when the vegetation is non-submerged, a 10° increase in α produces a 9.30% decrease in f. In the submerged state, a 10° increase in α causes a 26.70% decrease in f. CD is greatly affected by the boundary water depth. Below some critical water depths, an increase of 10° in α reduces CD by 8.48%. Above the critical depth, a 10° increase in α decreases CD by 41.10%.
Prediction of daily streamflow using artificial neural networks (ANNs), wavelet neural networks (WNNs), and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) models
Authors: Dalkiliç Hüseyin Yıldırım , Hashimi Said Ali
Published: April 2020

In recent years, the prediction of hydrological processes for the sustainable use of water resources has been a focus of research by scientists in the field of hydrology and water resources. Therefore, in this study, the prediction of daily streamflow using the artificial neural network (ANN), wavelet neural network (WNN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) models were taken into account to develop the efficiency and accuracy of the models' performances, compare their results and explain their outcomes for future study or use in hydrological processes. To validate the performance of the models, 70% (1996–2007) of the data were used to train them and 30% (2008–2011) of the data were used to test them. The estimated results of the models were evaluated by the root mean square error (RMSE), determination coefficient (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe (NS), and RMSE-observation standard deviation ratio (RSR) evaluation indexes. Although the outcomes of the models were comparable, the WNN model with RMSE = 0.700, R2 = 0.971, NS = 0.927, and RSR = 0.270 demonstrated the best performance compared to the ANN and ANFIS models.
Test of transformation mechanism of food waste and its impacts on sulfide and methane production in the sewer system
Authors: Zan Feixiang , Dai Ji , Jiang Feng , Chan Richard C. , Chen Guanghao
Published: April 2020

Food waste (FW) management has become an important issue worldwide. Diverting FW into the sewer system is considered promising to tackle the FW issue. However, the transformation of FW in sewers and its impact on the sewer process have not received adequate attention due to the overlooked sewer networks. In this study, a laboratory-scale sewer reactor system was established to investigate the transformation of FW and the production of sulfide and methane under anaerobic conditions. The transformation of FW in the sewer reactor could result in an increase in the substrate level through hydrolyzing and converting biodegradable substances into preferred substrates. Moreover, the generated substrates from the addition of FW were preferable for the metabolism of key microbes in sewer biofilms. As a result, methane production from the sewer reactor could be enhanced from the addition of FW, whereas sulfide production was not affected at a low sulfate concentration. The findings of this study suggest that the diversion of FW may exert an adverse impact on sewers and the environment in terms of greenhouse gas emission. Hence, more research is necessary to clarify the detailed impacts on FW management and wastewater treatment.
Red-on-granite rock painting in the Sierra de San Borja, Baja California
Authors: Crosby Hany
Published: April 2020

New discoveries in Baja California, north of the 28th parallel contradict an old tradition, and push the boundary of the Great Mural paintings further north than had been previously suggested. The new area not only displays works akin in size and subject matter to their more southern counterparts, but also shows some changes in choice of surfaces, paint colors, and stylistic conventions. Seven sites are reported; many others are predicted.
Excavaciones en la misión San Antonio de Padua, Alta California
Authors: Hoover Robert L.
Published: April 2020

La California Polytechnic State  University  ha realizado estudios arqueológicos en la  Misión  San  Antonio  de  Padua,  ubicada  en  el  condado de  Monterrey, Alta California. El potencial  arqueológico de este sitio  ha permitido diseñar planes de investigación utilizados en la  formación de estudiantes de antropología.En este artículo se describen detalladamente las características de los edificios  y residencias  que formaban  la misión, así como las actividades domésticas y económicas que se llevaban  a cabo en ellos. Como resultado de las excavaciones se pudo observar que las diferentes etapas en la  construcción  de la misión reflejan los grados de influencia y fusión entre los materiales  y técnicas introducidas por los misioneros  con formas y funciones indígenas,  dando como producto una serie de artefactos que reflejan un sincretismo cultural español-mexicano-indígena.
Breve descripción de la comunidad Cucapá del Rio Hardy, Baja California
Authors: Bendímez Patterson Julia
Published: April 2020

En este artículo se hace una breve descripción de la situación actual que enfrenta la comunidad cucapá El Mayor, para esto se toman en  consideración algunos acontecimientos históricos, el cambio de su entorno natural y su modo de procurarse el sustento. El propósito es ilustrar el difícil reto que enfrenta en el futuro inmediato este grupo indígena ancestral.
Maternal health among working women: A case study in the Mexican-U.S. border
Authors: Ojeda de la Peña Norma , Rangel Gudelia
Published: April 2020

This work is a description  of the differences in maternal  health among  women of the  wage-earning  class  along the Mexican/United States  border  in Tijuana,  Baja California. The study analyzes the specific case of women using the services of the Mexican  Institute of Social  Security  (IMSS), breaking  up the sample  according  to their employment  and level of physical labor on the job in industrial, business, and service sectors. The  study  is based  on information  from  a survey  titled, "Social  Conditions of Women and Reproductive Health in Tijuana".This was a post-partum  survey administered to a total of 2,596 obstetrical  patients seen at the Gynecology-. Obstetrics hospital of the Tijuana IMSSoffice during the spring of 1993.The results indicate differing maternal health oonditions among workers, in relation to some of  the factors considered  risks for infant and maternal health.
Pd (II) Immobilized on Clinoptilolite as a Highly Active Heterogeneous Catalyst for Ullmann Coupling-type S-arylation of Thiols with Aryl Halides
Authors: Alizadeh Abdollah , Khalilzadeh Mohammad A. , Alipour Eskandar , Zareyee Daryoush
Published: April 2020

Background:

There are a number of protocols for Ullmann coupling–type S-arylation
reactions, many of them suffer from the use of homogenous and often corrosive catalyst,
cumbersome workup procedures, and long reaction times. Besides, many of these reagents are
expensive and non-recoverable, leading to the generation of a large amount of toxic waste
particularly when large-scale applications are considered.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to prepare a new Pd catalyst bonded on the surface of zeolite
as a heterogeneous catalyst.

Methods:

A heterogeneous palladium catalyst has been prepared by immobilizing Pd ions on
Clinoptilolite. This novel developed heterogeneous catalyst was thoroughly examined for Ullmann
coupling–type S-arylation reaction using different bases, solvents and 0.003 mg of the catalyst. The
structural and morphological characterizations of the catalyst were carried out using XRD, TGA,
BET and TEM techniques.

Results:

Highly efficient heterogeneous palladium catalyst has been developed by immobilizing Pd
ions on Clinoptilolite, as one of the most abundant naturally occurring zeolites for Ullmann Sarylation.
By using this method, we provide an efficient way to a wide variety of substituted thiolic
compounds. Moreover, the catalyst is easily recovered using simple filtration and reused for 5
consecutive runs.

Conclusion:

In this effort, we developed a new Pd catalyst bonded on the surface of zeolite as a
substrate to prepare the heterogeneous catalyst. We demonstrate that this novel catalyst offers
reliable and convincing data that may offer a valuable application in further developing the science
and technology of Ullmann reaction protocols and allied industries. Additionally, the catalyst was
reusable and kept its high activities over a number of cycles.
Oxidative Stress-induced Toxicity and DNA Stability in Some Agri-field Based Livestock/Insect by Widely used Pesticides
Authors: Manna Balaram , Dutta Sangita M. , Dalapati Subrata , Maiti Smarajit
Published: April 2020

Aim and Objectives:

Humans continuously use pesticides in the field to control the pest
population and weeds for considerable agricultural productivity. Side-by species like grazinganimals,
insects and other species are adversely affected by or become resistant to pesticides. Insects,
birds and cattle are highly abundant dwellers of the agriculture-field and represent three distinct phyla
having versatile physiological features. Besides higher agricultural-productivity, protection to several
species will maintain ecological/environmental balance. Studies on the effect of widely used
pesticides on their DNA-stability and important enzymatic-activities are insufficient.

Materials and Methods:

Antioxidant-activity (Superoxide-dismutase; SOD/Catalase- by gelzymogram-
assay) and DNA-stability (fragmentation-assay) in hepatic/gut tissues were studied
after in vitro exposure of Chlorpyrifos, Fenvalerate, Nimbecidine or Azadirachtin to
goat/cow/poultry-hen/insect.

Results:

In general, all pesticides were found to impair enzymatic-activities. However, lower
organisms were affected more than higher vertebrates by azadirachtin-treatment. DNA
fragmentation was found more in insects/poultry-birds than that of the cattle in hepatic/gut tissues.
Inversely, toxicity/antioxidant marker-enzymes were more responsive in insect gut-tissues.
However, mitochondrialtoxicity revealed variable effects on different species. It has been noticed
that chlorpyrifos is the most toxic pesticide, followed by Fenvalerate/Nimbecidine (Azadirachtin,
AZT). Nevertheless, AZT revealed its higher DNA-destabilizing effects on the field-insects as
compared to the other animals.

Conclusion:

Field-insects are highly integrated into the ecosystem and the local bio-geo-chemical
cycle, which may be impaired. Pesticides may have toxic effects on higher vertebrates and may
sustain in the soil after being metabolized into their different derivatives. Some of the sensitive
biochemical parameters of this organism may be used as a biomarker for pesticide toxicity.
Analysis of Genetic Variants in SCN1A, SCN2A, KCNK18, TRPA1 and STX1A as a Possible Marker of Migraine
Authors: Kowalska Marta , Prendecki Michał , Kapelusiak-Pielok Magdalena , Grzelak Teresa , Łagan-Jędrzejczyk Urszula , Wiszniewska Małgorzata , Kozubski Wojciech , Dorszewska Jolanta
Published: April 2020

Background:

Migraine is a polygenetic disease, considered as a channelopathy. The
dysregulation of ion functioning due to genetic changes may activate the trigeminovascular system
and induce migraine attack both migraine with aura (MA) and without aura (MO).

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to analyze the following variants of genes encoding ion channels
and associated protein: c.3199G>A SCN1A, c.56G>A SCN2A, c.28A>G and c.328T>C KCNK18,
c.3053A>G TRPA1, c.31-1811C>T STX1A in migraine patients.
Patients and Methods: The study included 170 migraine patients and 173 controls. HRMA and Sanger
sequencing were used for genotyping. Meta-analysis was performed for c.28A>G, c.328T>C
KCNK18, and c.31-1811C>T STX1A.

Patients and Methods:

The study included 170 migraine patients and 173 controls. HRMA and Sanger
sequencing were used for genotyping. Meta-analysis was performed for c.28A>G, c.328T>C
KCNK18, and c.31-1811C>T STX1A.

Results:

AA genotype of c.56G>A SCN2A was found only in migraine patients. Patients with
c.328T>C KCNK18 mutation had an increased risk of developing migraine before the age of 18.
Moreover, individuals with AA/TC haplotype of KCNK18 had higher attack frequency than those with
AA/TT (p<0.05). T allele of c.31-1811C>T STX1A was more frequent in MA patients than MO
(p<0.05). The c.3053A>G TRPA1 polymorphism was more common in patients with migraine onset
before the age of 15 (p<0.05), while c.31-1811C>T STX1A and c.3199G>A SCN1A before the age of
10 (p<0.01). Meta-analysis showed a significant association of c.31-1811C>T STX1A polymorphism
with migraine overall (OR=1.22, p=0.0086), MA, and MO. No association was found for c.28A>G
KCNK18, c.328T>C KCNK18, and migraine overall.

Conclusions:

Changes in genes encoding ion channels or proteins regulating their functioning may increase
the risk of migraines and correlate with clinical features of disease, e.g. age of onset and attack
frequency.
Pharmacological Inhibition of Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 2 (TRPM2) Channels Attenuates Diabetes-induced Cognitive Deficits in Rats: A Mechanistic Study
Authors: Thapak Pavan , Bishnoi Mahendra , Sharma Shyam S.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder affecting the central nervous system. A growing body of evidence has depicted that high glucose level leads to the activation of the transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) channels. However, there are no studies targeting TRPM2 channels in diabetes-induced cognitive decline using a pharmacological approach.

Objective:

The present study intended to investigate the effects of 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB), a TRPM2 inhibitor, in diabetes-induced cognitive impairment.

Methods:

Streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg, i.p.) was used to induce diabetes in rats. Animals were randomly divided into the treatment group, model group and age-matched control and pre se group. 2-APB treatment was given for three weeks to the animals. After 10 days of behavioural treatment, parameters were performed. Animals were sacrificed at 10th week of diabetic induction and the hippocampus and cortex were isolated. After that, protein and mRNA expression study was performed in the hippocampus. Acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity was done in the cortex.

Results: :

Our study showed the 10th week diabetic animals developed cognitive impairment, which was evident from the behavioural parameters. Diabetic animals depicted an increase in the TRPM2 mRNA and protein expression in the hippocampus as well as increased AchE activity in the cortex. However, memory associated proteins were down-regulated, namely Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII-Thr286), glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β-Ser9), cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB-Ser133), and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95). Gene expression of parvalbumin, calsequestrin and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were down-regulated while mRNA level of calcineurin A/ protein phosphatase 3 catalytic subunit alpha (PPP3CA) was upregulated in the hippocampus of diabetic animals. A three-week treatment with 2-APB significantly ameliorated the alteration in behavioural cognitive parameters in diabetic rats. Moreover, 2-APB also down-regulated the expression of TRPM2 mRNA and protein in the hippocampus as well as AchE activity in the cortex of diabetic animals as compared to diabetic animals. Moreover, the 2-APB treatment also upregulated the CaMKII (Thr-286), GSK-3β (Ser9), CREB (Ser133), and PSD-95 expression and mRNA levels of parvalbumin, calsequestrin, and BDNF while mRNA level of calcineurin A was down-regulated in the hippocampus of diabetic animals.

Conclusion: :

This study confirms the ameliorative effect of TRPM2 channel inhibitor in the diabetes- induced cognitive deficits. Inhibition of TRPM2 channels reduced the calcium associated downstream signaling and showed a neuroprotective effect of TRPM2 channels in diabetesinduced cognitive impairment.
MiR-485-5p Promotes Neuron Survival through Mediating Rac1/Notch2 Signaling Pathway after Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion
Authors: Chen Xuan , Zhang Sumei , Shi Peipei , Su Yangli , Zhang Dong , Li Na
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a pathological feature of ischemic stroke.
This study investigated the regulatory role of miR-485-5p in I/R injury.

Methods:

SH-SY5Y cells were induced with oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation
(OGD/R) to mimic I/R injury in vitro. Cells were transfected with designated constructs (miR-485-
5p mimics, miR-485-5p inhibitor, lentiviral vectors overexpressing Rac1 or their corresponding
controls). Cell viability was evaluated using the MTT assay. The concentrations of lactate dehydrogenase,
malondialdehyde, and reactive oxygen species were detected to indicate the degree of
oxidative stress. Flow cytometry and caspase-3 activity assay were used for apoptosis assessment.
Dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to confirm that Rac family small GTPase 1 (Rac1)
was a downstream gene of miR-485-5p.

Results:

OGD/R resulted in decreased cell viability, elevated oxidative stress, increased apoptosis,
and downregulated miR-485-5p expression in SH-SY5Y cells. MiR-485-5p upregulation alleviated
I/R injury, evidenced by improved cell viability, decreased oxidative markers, and reduced apoptotic
rate. OGD/R increased the levels of Rac1 and neurogenic locus notch homolog protein 2
(Notch2) signaling-related proteins in cells with normal miR-485-5p expression, whereas miR-
485-5p overexpression successfully suppressed OGD/R-induced upregulation of these proteins.
Furthermore, the delivery of vectors overexpressing Rac1 in miR-485-5p mimics-transfected cells
reversed the protective effect of miR-485-5p in cells with OGD/R-induced injury.

Conclusion:

This study showed that miR-485-5p protected cells following I/R injury via targeting
Rac1/Notch2 signaling suggest that targeted upregulation of miR-485-5p might be a promising
therapeutic option for the protection against I/R injury.
Enzyme Inhibition, Kinetic, and Molecular Docking Studies of α-glucosidase
Authors: Moghadam Ebrahim S. , Faramarzi Mohammad A. , Imanparast Somayeh , Amini Mohsen
Published: April 2020

Background:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an important global health problem especially in
developed countries and insufficient lifestyle induces this phenomenon. Finding efficient treatment
for DM is an interesting goal for researchers.

Objective:

Herein we tried to design and synthesize a series of quinazoline derivatives and investigate
their bioactivity as possible α-Glucosidase inhibitor agents.

Method:

Compounds 1-14 were synthesized using a multicomponent reaction. 1HNMR, 13C NMR,
MS, and IR spectroscopy were used for the characterization of synthesized compounds. α-
Glucosidase inhibitory activity of compounds 1-14 was evaluated using p-nitrophenyl‐α‐Dglucopyranoside
(pNPG) as a substrate of the α-glucosidase enzyme (EC3.2.1.20, Saccharomyces
cerevisiae). The mechanism of inhibition of the α-glucosidase enzyme was investigated using kinetic
studies. Molecular docking was also done using autodock software to find the possible mode of interaction
of compound 8 and the enzyme active site.

Results:

Most of the tested compounds showed higher activity in inhibition of the enzyme in comparison
to the standard, acarbose. Compound 8 exerted the best activity with the IC50 value of 291.5
μM. A kinetic study indicated a competitive inhibition of the α-glucosidase enzyme by compound 8.
Finally, docking studies showed the interactions between compound 8 and enzyme active site residues.

Conclusion:

2,4-Diarylquinazoline scaffold has good antidiabetic activity, so it is interesting to synthesize
more 2,4-diarylquinazoline derivatives and evaluate their antidiabetic activities.
Method Development of Clarithromycin by Chromophore Addition through Chemical Derivatization
Authors: Abualhasan Murad , Qato Amal , Qrareya Salam , Khassib Tasneem
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is active against a variety of
microorganisms. It is widely used in the local and international market in different
pharmaceutical dosage forms. However, its chemical structure lacks a chromophore and hence it
has a low absorption and this makes it more difficult to be detected at low concentrations. In this
research project we proposed an easy and feasible chemical derivatization of clarithromycin to
introduce a chromophore in order to increase its absorptivity at low concentration using a simple
reverse phase HPLC analytical method.

Methodology:

Chemical derivatization of clarithromycin involved an introduction of benzoyl
groups as a chromophore through esterification reaction. A reverse phase analytical HPLC
method was developed to quantify clarithromycin at a very low concentration compared to the
standard official pharmacopeia.

Results:

Clarithromycin was successfully derivatized and a hyperchromic and bathochromic shift to
UV absorption lambda max (λmax) was achieved (λmax = 245nm.) A successful chromatographic
separation was obtained using reverse phase HPLC chromatography. The developed method was
capable of detecting and quantifying clarithromycin at very low concentration. The Limit of
Quantification (LOD) and Limit of Quantification (LOQ) was found to be 2*10-8 mg/ml and 2*10-6
mg/ml respectively.

Conclusion:

Clarithromycin was successfully derivatized to a chromophore containing
molecule. The developed reverse phase HPLC method is capable to detect and quantify
clarithromycin at a very low concentration. The method can successfully quantify
clarithromycine when present in low concentration such as in biological and enviromental
samples.
Complications of Muscle Hematomas in Hemophilia
Authors: Rodriguez-Merchan E. Carlos
Published: April 2020

Prevention is essential for avoiding the complications of muscle hematomas (compartment
syndrome, pseudotumors and peripheral nerve lesions) in hemophilic patients. This is
achieved through early diagnosis of muscle hematomas and proper long-term hematological treatment
until they have resolved (confirmed by image studies). Ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage
could be beneficial in terms of achieving better and faster symptom relief. Acute compartment
syndrome (ACS) requires emergency surgical treatment (decompression fasciotomy). As for
pseudotumors, the biopsy will help us confirm the diagnosis and rule out true tumors (chondrosarcoma,
liposarcoma, synovial sarcoma) that sometimes mimic hemophilic pseudotumors. Surgical
removal of hemophilic pseudotumors is the best solution. As alternatives, there are curettage and
filling with cancellous bone and radiotherapy (when surgery is contraindicated). Preoperative
arterial embolization (ideally 2 weeks before surgery) helps control intraoperative bleeding during
surgery for giant pelvic pseudotumors. Peripheral nerve injuries, which are rare, almost always occur
due to compression of hematomas in the vicinity. In most cases, they usually resolve with hematological
treatment only. If such treatment fails, surgery would be indicated.
Nuevo registro de Govenia purpusii (Orchidaceae) en el Parque Nacional La Malinche, Tlaxcala
Authors: Pérez Alva Braulio Ricardo , Pérez Flores Guillermo Alejandro
Published: April 2020

Antecedentes y Objetivos: Govenia purpusii es una especie de la familia Orchidaceae, tiene una distribución restringida dentro de los bosques subalpinos de los estados de Chiapas, Colima, Durango, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, México, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, Veracruz y Zacatecas. El propósito de este trabajo fue describir el hallazgo de esta especie presente en el Parque Nacional La Malinche, Tlaxcala, para incluirla en el inventario florístico.
Métodos: Se identificó una población de G. purpusii en campo y se realizaron colectas. A través del cotejo de material botánico recolectado con ejemplares de herbario, se determinó la especie considerando caracteres vegetativos y florales para su identificación.
Resultados clave: La especie se encontró en una vegetación de Quercus-Pinus a 2780 m de altitud; comparte el espacio con Selaginella sp., Oxalis sp., Peperomia sp. y Pinguicula moranensis.
Conclusiones: Se recomienda monitorear esta población debido a la reducida área de distribución dentro del Parque Nacional La Malinche y al escaso conocimiento sobre orquídeas terrestres en la entidad. La extinción local representaría una pérdida de material genético para la especie. No se debe interpretar este registro como una ampliación reciente de área de distribución; la presencia dentro de esta zona puede ser el resultado de la fragmentación de los bosques en la Faja Neovolcánica Transmexicana.