bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between non-traumatic vertebral fractures and adjacent discs degeneration: a cross-sectional study and literature review
Authors: Takegami Norihiko , Akeda Koji , Murata Koichiro , Yamada Junichi , Sudo Akihiro
Published: November 2020

BackgroundPrevious clinical studies reported that thoracolumbar vertebral fractures (VFs) associated with high energy spine trauma cause adjacent intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration; however, the effect of non-traumatic VFs on the progression of adjacent disc degeneration remains to be determined. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between non-traumatic VFs and degenerative changes of adjacent IVDs.Methods98 consecutive patients undergoing spinal surgery were included in this study. VFs were semi-quantitatively evaluated by lateral lumbar radiography. 588 vertebral bodies (from T12 to L5) and 486 discs (from T12/L1 to L4/L5) were analyzed. The degree of IVD degeneration was evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and classified into two groups according to Pfirrmann’s classification. Grades I, II and III were defined as the early stage of IVD degeneration and Grades IV and V as the advanced stage. Intradiscal vacuum phenomena (VPs) were evaluated by computed tomography. Adjacent IVDs were categorized according to the locations of VFs (superior, inferior, and bilateral). Associations between the presence of VFs and the extent of IVD degeneration or the presence of VPs were statistically analyzed.ResultsIVDs adjacent to VFs were identified in 115 IVDs (31.1% of total; superior: 11.4%, bilateral: 8.6%, inferior: 11.1%). The presence of VFs was significantly associated with MRI grades of adjacent IVD degeneration (P<0.01) and the prevalence of VPs within adjacent IVDs (P<0.01). From logistic regression analysis, age, disc level, and VFs were independent related factors for disc degeneration (P<0.05).ConclusionThis study showed that VFs were an independent related factor for adjacent disc degeneration and occurrence of intradiscal VPs. VFs may affect the micro-environment of adjacent IVDs, leading to disc degeneration and disc rupture.
Trends in oral corticosteroids use in severe asthma: a 14-year population-based study from Canada
Authors: Sadatsafavi Mohsen , Khakban Amir , Tavakoli Hamid , Ehteshami-Afshar Solmaz , Lynd Larry D. , FitzGerald J Mark
Published: November 2020

Background: Oral corticosteroids are important components of pharmacotherapy in severe asthma. Our objective was to describe the extent, trends, and factors associated with exposure to oral corticosteroids (OCS) in a severe asthma cohort.Methods: We used administrative health databases of British Columbia, Canada (2000–2014) and validated algorithms to retrospectively create a cohort of severe asthma patients. Exposure to OCS within each year of follow-up was measured in two ways: maintenance use as receiving on average ≥2.5 mg/day (prednisone-equivalent) OCS, and episodic use as the number of distinct episodes of OCS exposure for up to 14 days. Trends and factors associated with exposure on three time axes (calendar year, age, and time since diagnosis) were evaluated using Poisson regression.Results: 21,144 patients (55.4% female; mean entry age 28.7) contributed 40,803 follow-up years, in 8.2% of which OCS was used as maintenance therapy. Maintenance OCS use declined by 3.8%/calendar year (p<0.001). The average number of episodes of OCS use was 0.89/year, which increased by 1.1%/calendar year (p<0.001). Trends remained significant for both exposure types in adjusted analyses. Both maintenance and episodic use increased by age and time since diagnosis. Conclusions: This population-based study documented a secular downward trend in maintenance OCS use in a period before widespread use of biologics. This might have been responsible for a higher rate of exacerbations that required episodic OCS therapy. Such trends in OCS use might be due to changes in the epidemiology of severe asthma, or changes in patient and provider preferences over time.
A novel minimally invasive approach for chronic pancreatitis: combination of Frey procedure and laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Saito Kenta , Matsuo Yoichi , Ueda Goro , Omi Kan , Hayashi Yuichi , Imafuji Hiroyuki , Tsuboi Ken , Morimoto Mamoru , Ogawa Ryo , Takahashi Hiroki , Naitoh Itaru , Hayashi Kazuki , Kataoka Hiromi , Takiguchi Shuji
Published: November 2020

Background: The treatment of chronic pancreatitis requires a surgical approach in patients refractory to medical therapy. During surgical treatment, ductal decompression is required, but a pancreatectomy is necessary for some patients, such as those with severe stenosis of the pancreatic duct. Importantly, inadequate procedures lead to recurrent pancreatitis. We used a novel minimally invasive approach for patients with severe stenosis of the pancreatic duct. In this report, we aim to present the feasibility and outcomes of our approach. Methods: We selected a laparoscopic approach for the distal pancreatectomy because these parts are relatively safe and the effect of reducing the length of the wound is substantial. We selected an open approach for parts of the Frey procedure because complete ductal compression has a high risk for injury to the vessels posterior to the pancreas. We examined operative outcomes, postoperative complications and recurrence of pancreatitis.Results: Our approach was performed in three patients from January 2018 to December 2018. No intraoperative complications occurred and the postoperative course was uneventful in all patients. There were no recurrence of pancreatitis and no postoperative pain in all patients in the over two years follow-up. Conclusion: Our hybrid method focusing on complete ductal compression with safety and minimal invasiveness is the optimal approach for the surgical treatment of chronic pancreatitis which requires a pancreatectomy with the Frey procedure.
Anticonvulsant use and bone health in a population-based study of men and women: cross-sectional data from the Geelong Osteoporosis Study.
Authors: Chandrasekaran Vinoomika , Pasco Julie A , Stuart Amanda L , Brennan-Olsen Sharon L , Berk Michael , Hodge Jason M , Samarasinghe Rasika M , Williams Lana J
Published: November 2020

Background: Anticonvulsant use has been linked to bone deficits in specific patient populations. We studied the association between anticonvulsant use and bone health in a population-based sample of men and women.Methods: Data from 926 men (24-73yr) and 1070 women (21-94yr) participating in the Geelong Osteoporosis Study were included. Bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm2) of the PA-spine and total hip was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (Lunar). Bone quality was determined using quantitative heel ultrasound (QUS). Anthropometry was conducted and socioeconomic status was determined. Medication and lifestyle information was obtained via questionnaire. Linear regression was used to test associations between anticonvulsant use and bone health before and after adjustment for potential confounders. Results: Seventeen (1.8%) men and 20 (1.9%) women reported anticonvulsant use. In men, anticonvulsant users had 9.1% lower adjusted mean BMD at the spine and hip compared to non-users. Body mass index was an effect modifier at the spine. Anticonvulsant users also had 1.8% lower speed of sound (SOS), 10.6% lower broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and 13.7% lower stiffness index (SI) compared to non-users. In women, BMD tended to be lower at the hip compared to non-users as with the bone quality measure, BUA. No significant associations were observed at the spine or the other bone quality measures, SOS and SI. Conclusion: Our data suggest that bone quantity and quality, assessed using BMD and QUS, are lower for men and possibly women who use anticonvulsants. While further exploration into potential mechanisms is needed, our findings suggest that monitoring bone health among users of anticonvulsants is warranted.
Effectiveness of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Primary and Secondary Fracture Care: Mid-Term Outcomes in a Single-Centre Experience
Authors: Schwarz Angelika , Hohenberger Gloria , Sauerschnig Martin , Niks Milan , Lipnik Georg , Mattiassich Georg , Zacherl Maximilian , Seibert Franz Josef , Plecko Michael
Published: November 2020

Background The introduction of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) as a treatment option in complex proximal humeral fractures, has significantly extended the surgical armamentarium.The aim of this study was to investigate the mid-term outcome following fracture RSA in acute or sequelae, as well as salvage procedures. It was hypothesized that revision RSA (SRSA) leads to similar mid-term results as primary fracture treatment by RSA (PRSA).Methods This retrospective study describes the radiological and clinical mid-term outcomes in a standardized single-centre and Inlay design. Patients who underwent RSA in fracture care between 2008 and 2017 were included (minimum follow-up: two years, minimum age: 60 years).The assessment tools used for functional findings were range of motion (ROM), Visual Analogue Scale, absolute (CS) plus normative Constant Score, QuickDASH, and Subjective Shoulder Value. All adverse events as well as the radiological results and their clinical correlations were statistically analysed (using p < .05 and 95% confidence intervals).Results Following fracture RSA, 68 patients were included (mean age: 72.5 years, mean follow-up: 46 months). Forty-two underwent primary RSA (PRSA), and 26 underwent revision RSA (SRSA). Adverse advents were observed in 13% (n = 9/68).No statistically significant results were found for the scores of the PRSA and SRSA groups, while the failed osteosynthesis SRSA subgroup obtained statistically significantly negative values for ROM subzones (flexion: p = .020, abduction: p = .020). Decreased instances of tubercle healing were observed for the in PRSA group relative to the SRSA group (p = .006). The absence of bony healing of the tubercles was related to significant negative clinical and subjective outcomes (all scores: p < .05, external rotation: p = .019). Significant postoperative improvements were evaluated in the SRSA group (CS: 23 to 56 at mean, p = .001), the time from index surgery to operative revision revealed no associations in functional findings.Conclusions RSA is an effective option in severe shoulder fracture management with predictable results for salvage as well as first-line treatment. Promising mid-term functional results, reasonable implant survival rates, and high patient satisfaction can be achieved.Trial RegistrationNot applicable, level of evidence III.
Celecoxib Decreases Mitochondrial Complex IV Activity and Induces Oxidative Stress in Isolated Rat Heart Mitochondria: An Analysis for its Cardiotoxic Adverse Effect
Authors: Atashbar Saman , Khanlou Elham Mohammad , Khezri Saleh , Kurdpour Peyman , Salimi Ahmad
Published: November 2020

Background
In spite of the cardiotoxic effect of selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, they are most widely used as anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs. Today, valdecoxib and rofecoxib have been withdrawn on the market but celecoxib remains. In this study, we focused on an analysis of celecoxib toxic effects on isolated mitochondrial.
Methods
isolated rat heart mitochondria were obtained using differential centrifugation. Using flowcytometry and biochemical assays we searched succinate dehydrogenases (SDH), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, mitochondrial swelling, lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial complexes activity in rat heart isolated mitochondria.
Results
In here our results indicated a significant decrease in activity of complexes IV after exposure with celecoxib (16 µg/ml). This decrease in activity of complexes IV is paralleled by the MMP collapse, ROS formation, mitochondrial swelling and lipid peroxidation.
Conclusion
For the first time, this introductory study has showed a significant decrease in activity of complexes IV and mitochondrial dysfunction after exposure with celecoxib in rat heart isolated mitochondria.
Interventions to prevent anastomotic leak after esophageal surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Grigor Emma J.M. , Kaaki Suha , Fergusson Dean A. , Maziak Donna E. , Seely Andrew J.E.
Published: November 2020

Background: Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a common and serious complication following esophagectomy. We aimed to provide an up-to-date review and critical appraisal of interventions designed to reduce AL risk. Methods: We searched MEDLINE and Embase from 1946 to January 2019 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating interventions to minimize esophagogastric AL. Pooled risk ratios (RR) for AL was performed using random effects. Results: Two reviewers screened 441 abstracts and identified 17 RCTs eligible for inclusion; 11 studies were meta-analyzed. Omentoplasty reduced the risk of AL significantly by 78% [RR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.50] compared to no omentoplasty (3 studies, n = 611 patients). Early removal of NG tube reduced AL risk significantly by 62% [RR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.65] compared to prolonged NG tube (2 studies, n = 293 patients); Stapled (vs. hand-sewn) anastomosis did not significantly reduce AL risk [RR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.45, 1.87] compared to hand-sewn (6 studies, n = 1,454 patients). The quality of evidence was high for omentoplasty (vs. no omentoplasty), moderate for early removal of NG tube (vs. conventional removal), and very low for stapled anastomosis (vs. hand-sewn).Conclusions: This is the first meta-analysis to summarize the graded quality of evidence for all RCT interventions designed to reduce AL following esophagectomy. Our findings demonstrated that omentoplasty reduced the risk of AL with a high quality of evidence. Although early NG tube removal reduced AL risk, there is a need for further research to strengthen the quality of evidence. Evidence profiles presented in our review may help inform the development of clinical practice recommendations. Systematic review registration: CRD42019127181
Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Culture-Negative Periprosthetic Joint Infections
Authors: Watanabe Shintaro , Kobayashi Naomi , Tomoyama Akito , Choe Hyonmin , Yamazaki Etsuko , Inaba Yutaka
Published: November 2020

Background: Culture-negative periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) can complicate diagnosis and management of PJI. This study aimed to identify risk factors for culture-negative PJI and differences in clinical characteristics between culture-positive and culture-negative PJI group. Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study evaluated PJI cases obtained between January 2013 and October 2019 at our institution. These PJI cases were divided into culture-positive and culture-negative groups and then compared. The demographics, laboratory findings, and details of patient’s clinical characteristics were investigated. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to investigate risk factors for culture-negative PJI.Results: A total of 109 PJI cases were included in the analysis: 82 (75%) culture-positive and 27 (25%) culture-negative. The mean serum white blood cell (WBC) count, C-reactive protein level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate in the culture-negative group were significantly lower than those in the culture-positive group (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding history of prior antibacterial administration or treatment success rates. Multivariate analysis identified a lower serum WBC count as a risk factor for culture-negative PJI (odds ratio = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.63–0.97; p = 0.027).Conclusions: A lower serum WBC count is a risk factor for culture-negative PJI, but prior antimicrobial therapy is not. The results suggest that PJI cases with lower levels of systemic inflammation are likely to be culture-negative; therefore, the possibility of a culture-negative result should be considered in suspected cases of PJI with low inflammatory markers, regardless of prior antibiotic exposure.
The First Hundred Days of Novel Corona-virus Disease 2019 in Ethiopia, 13 March to 21 June 2020: Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Watare Shambel Habebe , Edea Zewdu Assefa , Desta Haftom Taame , Lombamo Fantu , Yohannes Negussie , Asefa Mulugeta , Mirkuzie Alem , Gemechu Diriba Sufa , Teka Gizaw , Feyisa Yohannes Dugasa , Eshetu Kirubel , Tesema Masresha , MUSA Emmanuel Onuche , Tollera Getachew , Abayneh Aschalew , Abate Ebba
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was originated from Wuhan city, China and spread to almost all countries and territories in the world. Ethiopia reported its first COVID-19 confirmed case on 13 March, 2020. This study aims to show the epidemiological characteristics of the pandemic in Ethiopia in the first hundred days, which would help to guide the ongoing national response efforts to control and prevent the spread of the disease through generating scientific evidence.MethodWe conducted secondary data analysis of COVID-19 data extracted from a national database at Ethiopian Public Health Institute from 13 March to 21 June, 2020. We anonymized personal information for privacy protection. Data was cleaned and descriptive analyses was employed. We used Arc GIS to illustrate the geographical distribution of COVID-19 cases.ResultsOf the 216,328 examined individuals, 4,534 (2.1%) tested positive for COVID-19 of which 74(CFR: 1.6%) have died. People aged between 20–49 years attributed for 76.3% of the total cases. Majority, 2,851 (62.9%) of the cases were male, 3,222 (71.3%) reported from Addis Ababa, 982 (21.7%) of the cases were imported, 413(9.1%) had contact with confirmed cases, 3,139 (69.2%) had no travel history nor contact with confirmed case, and 4,180 (92.2%) of the cases reported were asymptomatic. Health Care Workers contributed for 3.7% of the total cases reported.ConclusionThe magnitude and distribution of COVID-19 cases and deaths and Health Care Workers infection has increased throughout the country over-time. Due emphasis needs to be given by the government, all stakeholders, and partners to scale-up and expand laboratory diagnosis capacities, strengthen surveillance and contact tracing, implement proper Infection Prevention and Control measures, improve case management services and the community should strictly follow social distancing measures. There should be an appropriate health care workers risk factors assessment and intervention to adequately protect the health care workers exposure and infection. Further study shall be conducted to describe the knowledge gaps on the asymptomatic transmission of the virus.
Genome-wide characterization of SPL gene family in Codonopsis pilosula reveals the novel roles of CpSPL2 and CpSPL10 in promoting the accumulation of secondary metabolites and growth of C. pilosula hairy root
Authors: Yang Jing , Guo Zhonglong , Cao Yao , Chen Rui , Wang Wentao , Yang Xiaozeng , cao xiaoyan
Published: November 2020

Background

SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE (SPL) transcription factors play critical roles in regulating diverse aspects of plant growth and development, including vegetative phase change, plant architecture, anthocyanin accumulation, lateral root growth, etc. Codonopsis pilosula is a famous medicinal plant and its dried root, named Dangshen, is one of the most widely used traditional Chinese medicine. However, little information about SPL genes in this species has been reported.
Results

In the present study, 15 SPL genes were identified based on the genome data of Codonopsis pilosula. Ten of the 15 CpSPLs were predicted to be the targets of miR156. Phylogenetic analysis clustered CpSPLs into seven groups (G1-G7) along with 16 SPLs from Arabidopsis thaliana. CpSPLs in the same group share similar gene structure and conserved motif composition. Cis-acting elements responding to light, stress, and phytohormone widely exist in their promoter regions. Our qRT-PCR results indicated that 15 CpSPLs were differentially expressed in different tissues (root, stem, leaf, flower, and calyx), different developmental periods (1, 2 and 3 months after germination), and various conditions (NaCl, MeJA and ABA treatment). Compared with the control, overexpression of CpSPL2 or CpSPL10 significantly promoted not only the growth of hairy roots, but also the accumulation of total saponins and lobetyolin.
Conclusions

The SPL genes in the C. pilosula genome were identified and their expression patterns were analyzed. The novel roles of CpSPL2 and CpSPL10 in promoting the accumulation of secondary metabolites and growth of C. pilosula hairy root were revealed. Our results established a foundation for further investigation of CpSPLs and provided novel insights into their biological functions.
Identifying Marketable Attributes of Fresh-market Blackberries through Consumer Sensory Evaluations
Authors: Threlfall Renee T. , Clark John R. , Dunteman Aubrey N. , Worthington Margaret L.
Published: November 2020

Breeding and release of new fresh-market blackberries (Rubus subgenus Rubus Watson) is vital for competitive markets to address evolving changes and production challenges. Physical, composition, and sensory attributes of six University of Arkansas (UA) System Division of Agriculture blackberry cultivars (Caddo, Natchez, Osage, Ouachita, Ponca, and Prime-Ark® Traveler) were evaluated to identify marketable attributes. The consumer sensory study (n = 81) had two elements: a visual evaluation of displayed blackberries and an appearance, tasting, and firmness evaluation of the six cultivars using a 9-point verbal hedonic liking scale and a 5-point just about right (JAR) scale. Consumers preferred large blackberries when presented with individual berries of varying sizes and clamshells filled with equal weights of small or large blackberries. The largest of the six cultivars, Natchez and Caddo, were scored favorably for size and shape. Consumers also preferred clamshells with little to no red drupelet reversion, a postharvest disorder where black drupelets on the blackberry turn red during or after cold storage. Consumers did not detect differences in the appearance or firmness of the cultivars and rated the firmness of all cultivars favorably on the JAR scale. The physical and composition attributes of the six cultivars were within commercially acceptable ranges (soluble solids = 9% to 10%, pH = 3.1–3.8, titratable acidity = 0.6% to 1.4%, and berry weight = 6–10 g). ‘Ponca’, ‘Osage’, ‘Caddo’, and ‘Natchez’ were all rated highly for sweetness, sourness, overall flavor, and overall impression. ‘Ponca’ was rated high for sweetness, overall flavor, and overall impression and had 10.4% soluble solids, 0.82% titratable acidity, and a 12.8 soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio. The identification of these marketability attributes of fresh-market blackberries will provide information to advance breeding efforts for fruit with commercial potential.
Yellow and purple nutsedge and coffee senna as hosts of common plant nematodes in Florida
Authors: de Lourdes Mendes Maria , Dickson Donald W. , Crow William T.
Published: November 2020

Yellow (Cyperus esculentus) and purple (C. rotundus) nutsedges, and coffee senna (Senna occidentalis) are common weeds in the southern USA and each have been reported as alternative hosts for plant-parasitic nematodes. Our objective was to determine the host suitability of these weeds to plant-parasitic nematodes common in Florida agriculture and turfgrass systems. The root-knot nematode (RKN) species tested included Meloidogyne arenaria, M. enterolobii, M. floridensis, M. graminis, M. hapla, M. incognita, and M. javanica. The host status of sting nematode, Belonolaimus longicaudatus, was also evaluated, but only on the nutsedge species. All RKN species evaluated reproduced on both nutsedge species and had a reproductive factor greater than one, except for M. graminis on yellow nutsedge. However, only M. hapla, M. javanica, and M. graminis induced visual galls on yellow nutsedge and only M. graminis caused galling on purple nutsedge. Meloidogyne arenaria and M. graminis reproduced at a greater rate on purple nutsedge than on yellow nutsedge. Both nutsedge species were good hosts to B. longicaudatus. Coffee senna was a host to M. enterolobii, a poor host to M. incognita, and nonhost to the other RKN species evaluated.
Morphological and molecular characterization of Heterodera dunensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Heteroderidae) from Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Authors: Singh Phougeishangbam Rolish , Karssen Gerrit , Couvreur Marjolein , Bert Wim
Published: November 2020

Heterodera dunensis n. sp. from the coastal dunes of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, is described. This new species belongs to the Schachtii group of Heterodera with ambifenestrate fenestration, presence of prominent bullae, and a strong underbridge of cysts. It is characterized by vermiform second-stage juveniles having a slightly offset, dome-shaped labial region with three annuli, four lateral lines, a relatively long stylet (27-31 µm), short tail (35-45 µm), and 46 to 51% of tail as hyaline portion. Males were not found in the type population. Phylogenetic trees inferred from D2-D3 of 28S, partial ITS, and 18S of ribosomal DNA and COI of mitochondrial DNA sequences indicate a position in the ‘Schachtii clade’.
Intraspecific variation in phenotypic and phylogenetic features among Pratylenchus penetrans isolates from Wisconsin, USA
Authors: Saikai Kanan , MacGuidwin Ann E.
Published: November 2020

Pratylenchus penetrans is a common and important agricultural pest in Wisconsin, a USA state with a diverse agriculture. We compared populations from around the state to each other and to data published for populations around the world to gain insight on the variability of features important for identification of this cosmopolitan species. Thirteen isolates from samples collected in soybean fields in ten Wisconsin counties were established in monoxenic cultures. Analysis of morphological features revealed the least variable feature for all isolates collectively was vulva percentage. Features less variable within than among isolates were body width, lip region height, and stylet length. Some isolates showed only the smooth tail tip phenotype and others had a mix of smooth and annulated tail phenotypes. A suite of features provided sufficient pattern to group isolates into four clusters according to hierarchical agglomerative clustering and canonical discriminative analyses, but not with enough distinction to be useful for classification. Haplotype analysis based on the COI mitochondrial gene of the 13 cultured isolates, 39 Wisconsin field populations, and published sequences representing five additional USA states and six countries revealed 21 haplotypes, 15 of which occurred in Wisconsin. Ten haplotypes represented in Wisconsin were shared with populations from Europe, South America, Africa, or Asia. Five haplotypes were unique to Wisconsin, six were unique to The Netherlands, and one was unique to Japan suggesting that even more COI diversity will be revealed when more COI sequences for P. penetrans become available. The maximum pairwise sequence variation was 6% and the SNPs did not alter amino acids, indicating cryptic biodiversity within the species worldwide. The cosmopolitan to localized scale of distribution of COI haplotypes could be due to frequent and ongoing dispersal events, facilitated by life history traits and the broad host range of P. penetrans. Regions of diverse agriculture, like Wisconsin, show promise for studying this important pest and our study confirms the utility of the COI mtDNA gene for studying variation within a species.
Spillover effects between Greece and Cyprus: a DCC model on the interdependence of small economies
Authors: Samitas Aristeidis , Kampouris Elias , Polyzos Stathis , Ef. Spyridou Anastasia
Published: November 2020

This paper discusses the volatility spillovers between the Greek debt crisis and the Cypriot financial crisis. Cyprus was in the spotlight of financial markets due to significant problems stemming from the banking sector, which were dealt with by EU regulators with a bail-in on bank deposits. The current analysis aims to shed light on the reasons behind implementing this novel approach to bank distress. The study uses a Dynamic Conditional Correlation model on the returns of the stock markets of the two countries, which shows strong spillover effects during the period leading up to the 2013 Cypriot crisis, but a significant decrease of these effects from then on. The results confirm the close interdependence of the Greek and Cypriot economies before 2013 and show that this interdependence was limited from that point onwards. This would indicate that since the risk of contagion to the Eurozone had diminished, regulators could test the bail-in solution in Cyprus in 2015. The current work contributes to the discussion on the interdependence of European economies. The paper’s findings can also be applied to other emerging European economies.
Fault diagnosis of bearing vibration signals based on a reconstruction algorithm with multiple side Information and CEEMDAN method
Authors: Wu Bo , Gao Yangde , Ma Na , Chanwimalueang Theerasak , Yuan Xiaobing , Liu Jianpo
Published: November 2020

When bearing vibration of instruments is monitored, a large number of data are produced. This requires a massive capacity of storage and high bandwidth of data transmission whereby costs and complex installation are concerned. In this study, we aim to propose an effective framework to address such the amount of bearing signals to which only meaningful information is extracted. Based on the compressed sensing (CS) theory. We proposed a reconstruction algorithm based on the multiple side information signal (RAMSI) with a purpose to effectively obtain important information from recorded bearing signals. In the process of sparse optimization, the RAMSI algorithm was implemented to solve the n-11 minimization problem with the weighting adaptive multiple side information signals. Wavelet basis and Hartley matrix were applied for the reconstruction process, for which the effective sparse optimization processing of bearing signals was able to adaptively computed. The performance of our RAMSI-based CS theory was compared with the basis pursuit (BP) which is based on the alternating direction method of multiplier (ADMM) and orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP). The error indices of the reconstruction algorithms were evaluated. This proves that the performance of the sparse optimization algorithm from our proposed framework is superior to the BP based on the ADMM and OMP algorithm. After recovering vibration signals, some strong noise caused by the incipient fault characteristic of the bearing. The complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) method was performed to extract the bearing fault component from such noise. In terms of performance, the CEEMDAN method was compared to the standard ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) method. The results show that the CEEMDAN method yields a better decomposition performance and is able to extract meaningful information of bearing fault characteristic.
İlkokul Çağı Öğrencilerinin Ders Çalışma Sürecinde Teknolojik Araç Kullanımına İlişkin Veli Görüşleri
Authors: Fidan İbrahim , Çelik Feti
Published: November 2020

Bu araştırmanın amacı, ilkokul çağı öğrencilerinin derslerinde Teknolojik Araç (TA: bilgisayar, telefon, tablet ve televizyon) kullanımına ilişkin veli görüşlerini velilerin; cinsiyeti, yaş aralığı, öğrenim düzeyi, evde kullanılan Teknolojik Araç (TA) sayısı, öğrencilerin; sınıf düzeyleri, TA kullanım süresi, evde internet bağlantısı değişkenlerine göre farklılaşma olma durumunu incelemektir.
Araştırma betimsel nitelikte bir alan araştırması olup tarama modeli kullanılmıştır. Araştırma evrenini Burdur ili Bucak ilçe merkezinde öğrenim gören bütün ilkokul öğrenci velileri oluşturmaktadır. Araştırma verileri, Burdur İl Milli Eğitim Müdürlüğü ile iletişim kurularak olasılık temelli örnekleme yöntemlerinden rastlantısal kümeleme yöntemi kullanılarak toplanmıştır. Araştırmanın verilerini 2017-2018 eğitim-öğretim yılında Burdur ili Bucak ilçesinde sekiz ilkokul ve bir özel ilkokulda öğrenim gören 418 öğrencinin velileri oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmanın verileri, araştırmacı tarafından uyarlanan “İlkokul Çağı Öğrencilerinin Ders Çalışma Sürecinde Teknolojik Araç Kullanımına İlişkin Veli Görüşleri” ölçeği ile toplanmıştır. Çalışma ölçeğinin Cronbach’s alpha güvenirlik katsayısı ,78 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Verilerin analizi, SPSS 22 programı kullanılarak yapılmıştır. Verilerin analiz edilmesinde frekans, yüzde, aritmetik ortalama, standart sapma, Mann Whitney U Testi, Kruskal Wallis Testi, Tukey Çoklu Karşılaştırma Testi kullanılmıştır.
Çalışma sonucunda, velilerin ilkokul öğrencilerinin Teknolojik Araç (TA) ile zaman geçirirken aile rehberliğini önemsedikleri görülmüştür. Velilerin, öğrencilerin sıklıkla TA kullanımlarının beden sağlığı, arkadaşlık ilişkileri, ders başarıları ve sosyal iletişim becerilerini olumsuz etkilediğini düşündükleri saptanmıştır. İlkokul öğrencilerinin ders çalışma süreçlerinde TA kullanmadıkları ve velilerin akıllı telefonlarını oyun ve sosyal medya için kullandıkları saptanmıştır. Veli görüşlerinin; cinsiyet değişkenine göre TA kullanım alanları alt boyutunda erkek veliler lehine farklılık gösterdiği, yaş aralıkları değişkenine göre TA kullanmanın faydaları ve kullanım alanları alt boyutunda 36-45 yaş lehine farklılık gösterdiği, öğrenim düzeyi değişkenine göre aile rehberliği ve TA kullanmanın zararları alt boyutunda üniversite ve lisansüstü lehine farklılık gösterdiği, TA sayısı değişkenine göre öneriler alt boyutunda dört adet olanlar lehine farklılık gösterdiği, öğrencilerin; sınıf düzeyi değişkenine göre TA kullanım becerisi ve öneriler alt boyutunda dördüncü sınıf öğrencileri lehine farklılık gösterdiği, TA kullanım süresi değişkenine göre TA kullanım alanları ve öneriler alt boyutunda üç yıldan fazla kullananlar lehine farklılık gösterdiği, internet bağlantısı değişkenine göre öneriler alt boyutunda var olanlar lehine farklılık gösterdiği saptanmıştır.
The Role of Plant-Derived Compounds in Managing Diabetes Mellitus: A Review of Literature from 2014 To 2019
Authors: El-Nashar Heba A.S. , Mostafa Nada M. , El-Shazly Mohamed , Eldahshan Omayma A.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) represents a global health problem characterized
by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin secretion or failure of insulin activity.
There is an imperative need for the discovery of alternative therapeutic agents that
overcome the drawbacks of the current synthetic antidiabetic drugs.

Objectives:

This review critically summarizes the reports on the known and novel natural
compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins with a potent antidiabetic activity
that were recently published from 2014 to 2019. We discussed the underlying mechanisms
of action that put these compounds in the category of effective antidiabetic candidates.

Discussion and Conclusion:

The reported natural compounds showed promising antidiabetic
activity through different mechanisms such as the inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase,
insulin-sensitizing effect, direct action on protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B),
peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), GLUT4 expression, insulin
receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) as well as dipeptidyl
peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme. Some compounds inhibited the formation of advanced
glycation end products (AGEs). Other compounds prevented the risk of diabetic
complications such as cardiovascular diseases, retinopathy, and nephropathy. This review
provides a critical overview of the most recent discoveries of antidiabetic agents
from natural sources. This overview could help researchers to focus on the most prominent
candidates aiming to develop new drug leads.
Recent Applications of Azo Dyes: A Paradigm Shift from Medicinal Chemistry to Biomedical Sciences
Authors: Khan Md. Nasim , Parmar Digvijaysinh K. , Das Debasis
Published: November 2020

Azo molecules possess the characteristic azo bond (-N=N-) and are considered fascinating
motifs in organic chemistry. Since the last century, these brightly colored compounds have been widely
employed as dyes across several industries in applications for printing, food, paper, cosmetics, lasers,
electronics, optics, material sciences, etc. The discovery of Prontosil, an antibacterial drug, propelled
azo compounds into the limelight in the field of medicinal chemistry. Subsequent discoveries
including Phenazopyridine, Basalazide, and Sulfasalazine enabled azo compounds to occupy a significant
role in the drug market. Furthermore, azo compounds have been employed as antibacterial, antimalarial,
antifungal, antioxidant, as well as antiviral agents. The metabolic degradation of many azo
dyes can induce liver problems if ingested, posing a safety concern and limiting their application as
azo dyes in medicinal chemistry. However, azo dyes remain particularly significant for applications in
cancer chemotherapy. Recently, a paradigm shift has been observed in the use of azo dyes: from medicinal
chemistry to biomedical sciences. The latter benefits from azo dye application are related to
imaging, drug delivery, photo-pharmacology and photo switching. Herein, we have compiled and
discussed recent works on azo dye compounds obtained so far, focusing on their medicinal importance
and future prospects.
Synthesis, Design and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Novel 5-(Indol-3-yl)thiazolidinone Derivatives as COX-2 Inhibitors
Authors: Atta-Allah Saad R. , Ismail Nasser S.M. , Nassar Ibrahim F.
Published: November 2020

Background:

New N-substituted 5-(oxoindolinyl)-2-thioxo- thiazolidinone derivatives
were synthesized.

Methods and Materials:

The C2
-substituted thiazolidinone derivatives with piperidinyl and morpholinyl
moieties in addition to the tetracyclic [(oxindolo)pyrazino]thiazolidine, the chloro- and aminoderivatives
of the (indolyl)thiazolidinone ring system were also prepared.

Results:

The COX-2 inhibition activity of the synthesized compounds was investigated by studying
their ability to inhibit the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2 (PGH2). Five of the
tested candidates, substituted (oxonidolyl)thiazolidine derivatives (3a, 6f, 8b, 10 and 12) showed
significant COX-2 inhibitory activity exhibiting IC50 values better than or close to the reference
celecoxib. The anti-inflammatory activity was studied revealing that a number of compounds have
shown good activities and compound 10 produced no significant mucosal injury.

Conclusion:

Molecular docking study was implemented to interpret the variable inhibitory activity of
the newly synthesized compounds against COX enzyme. The results suggested that some of these
derivatives could be active COX inhibitors possessing a high preference for COX-2.
Structure-Activity Relationship of Supramolecular Compounds in Drug Delivery
Authors: Rajalakshmi P. , Peter Daniel N. , S. Jesu Johnson , Ananthi Nallamuthu
Published: November 2020

Supramolecular compounds are capable of undergoing various non-covalent interactions
with other molecules like host-guest chemistry, controlled encapsulation, hydrophobic interactions, a
variety of delivering strategies, electron affinity induced interactions, etc. These properties of supramolecular
compounds make them attractive to be effective drug carriers. This review will describe in
detail the recent interesting reports on the structure-activity relationship of supramolecular compounds
in drug delivery. The supramolecular compounds considered are cyclodextrins, cucurbiturils,
avidin, biotin, rotaxanes, viologens, and dendrimers. Studying the opportunities given by these supramolecular
compounds in drug delivery will pave the way for novel efficient drug delivery systems
for the future.
The Patient-centered Medical Home as an Intervention Strategy for Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: McManus Lisa S. , Dominguez-Cancino Karen A. , Stanek Michele K. , Leyva-Moral Juan. M. , Bravo-Tare Carola E. , Rivera-Lozada Oriana , Palmieri Patrick A.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Poorly managed diabetes mellitus increases health care expenditures and
negatively impacts health outcomes. There are 34 million people living with diabetes in the United
States with a direct annual medical cost of $237 billion. The patient-centered medical home
(PCMH) was introduced to transform primary care by offering team-based care that is accessible,
coordinated, and comprehensive. Although the PCMH is believed to address multiple gaps in delivering
care to people living with chronic diseases, the research has not yet reported clear benefits for
managing diabetes.

Objective:

The study reviews the scientific literature about diabetes mellitus outcomes reported by
PCMHs, and understands the impact of team-based care, interdisciplinary communication, and care
coordination strategies on the clinical, financial, and health-related outcomes.

Method:

The systematic review was performed according to the Cochrane method and the Preferred
Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Eight databases were systematically
searched for articles. The Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of evidence
and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme systematic review checklist were used to evaluate the
studies.

Results:

The search resulted in 596 articles, of which 24 met all the inclusion criteria. Care management
resulted in more screenings and better preventive care. Pharmacy-led interventions and technology
were associated with positive clinical outcomes, decreased utilization, and cost savings.
Most studies reported decreased emergency room visits and less inpatient admissions.

Conclusion :

The quality and strength of the outcomes were largely inconclusive about the overall
effectiveness of the PCMH. Defining and comparing concepts across studies was difficult as universal
definitions specific to the PCMH were not often applied. More research is needed to unpack the
care model of the PCMH to further understand how the individual key components, such as care
bundles, contribute to improved outcomes. Further evaluations are needed for team-based care,
communication, and care coordination with comparisons to patient, clinical, health, and financial
outcomes.
Catechin Derivatives as Inhibitor of COVID-19 Main Protease (Mpro): Molecular Docking Studies Unveil an Opportunity Against CORONA
Authors: Arif Muhammad Nouman
Published: November 2020

Background:

A new stain of corona virus COVID-19 got worldwide attention and has affected almost whole of the world population. Currently there is no specific vaccine or drug against COVID-19. Xu et al. (2020) built a homolog model of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro based on SARS-CoV Mpro which is considered as target to inhibit the replication of CoV.

Objective:

The aim of current study is to find potential inhibitors of COVID-19 Mpro using docking analysis.

Methods:

Autodockvina was used to carry out Protein-Ligand docking. COVID-19 main protease Mpro was docked with catechin and its different synthetic derivatives. Nelfinavir is an antiretroviral drug belongs to protease inhibitors was taken as standard.

Results:

According to the result obtained it was found that Compound (4) and Compound (1) have more affinity than nelfinavir.

Conclusion:

Compounds have a great potential to become COVID-19 main protease Mpro inhibitor. Nevertheless for their medicinal use further investigation is necessary.
Efflux Pump and its Inhibitors: Novel Targets to Combat Drug Resistance
Authors: Chopra Bhawna , Dhingra Ashwani Kumar
Published: November 2020

The rapid emergence of resistant bacteria is occurring worldwide, endangering the efficacy
of antibiotics, which have transformed medicine and saved millions of lives. Antibiotic resistance
has become a major clinical problem today. In addition, multidrug resistance also develops
various structurally and functionally unrelated toxic compounds. To overcome this problem, a new
target efflux pump was recognized that, if inhibited, reduces the level of resistance or potentiates or
produces a synergistic effect in combination with antibiotics. Keeping this in view, the present review
article aims to describe the families of efflux pumps and the various natural components to be
employed as good efflux pump inhibitors.
Changes in Phenolic Compounds Profiles in Tea Extracts and the Composition of these Phenolic Compounds in Yogurt
Authors: Shori Amal Bakr , Muniandy Premalatha , Baba Ahmad Salihin
Published: November 2020

Background:

Green, white, and black tea water extracts are rich in phenolic compounds.

Objective:

The changes in phenolic compound profiles of green, white, and black tea (GT, WT, &
BT respectively) water extracts and their respective yogurt were investigated.

Methods:

hree types of yogurt with tea water extracts were prepared, and the phenolic compound
profiles were analyzed using the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method.

Results:

The present data found that flavonol glycosides such as kaempferol-3-rutinoside and
quercetin-rhamnosylgalactoside or rutinoside were present in WT extract, whereas catechin derivatives
such as gallocatechin (GC) and epigallocatechin (EGC) were present in GT extract. Moreover,
theaflavin-3-O-gallate was observed in BT extract. Many of the catechin and its derivatives
detected in the tea extracts were not identified in the tea yogurt samples. However, new phenolic
compounds were present in GT-yogurt (i.e., kaempferol-3-rutinoside and quinic acid conjugate)
but absent in GT extract.

Conclusion:

GT, WT, & BT extracts could be used to enriched-yogurt with phenolic compounds,
which may have antioxidant properties.
Dolomitic filler in self-compacting concrete: a review
Authors: Abdalqader Ahmed , Sonebi Mohammed
Published: November 2020

The utilization of fine powders as fillers in self-compacting concrete (SCC) application is widespread, particularly in Europe. The incorporation of these fillers to attain the self-compatibility properties of SCC seems to be cheaper than the use of chemical admixtures. Among the wide range of potential fillers, dolomitic powders, particularly generated as by-products from quarry’s processing, are locally available and can be used to produce SCC. Few studies have shown that dolomitic powders can be incorporated in the SCC’s mix design, resulting in acceptable fresh and hardened properties of SCC. The particle size distribution and fineness of the dolomitic powder as well as the level of addition are the key factors affecting those properties. The influence of the chemical nature of the dolomitic powder on the properties of SCC, particularly the durability (e.g. alkali-carbonate reaction), is yet to be investigated. Furthermore, more efforts are still required to investigate the use of dolomitic by-products in the production of SCC.