bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroprotective effect of Estrogen Receptor α against neuroinflammation induced by hypoxia/ischemia via SIRT1-dependent AMPK pathway
Authors: Z Z , WQ He , XL Cao , B Tang , QY Fan , MH Zhao , YJ Chen
Published: September 2019

Background: Stroke-related damage in rats is protected against by estrogen which also has an anti-cerebral ischemia role mostly conducted via its association with estrogen receptor (ER) α .However,processes governing ER α-mediated neuroprotection are poorly comprehended. This study sought to establish whether ERα’s control of neuroinflammation caused by NLRP3 inflammasome activation emanating from SIRT1-AMPK signaling allowed ERα’s improvement of hypoxia/ischemic damage. Methods: The intraperitoneal administration of estrogen was performed to ovariectomized (bilaterally) (OVA) SD rats prior to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). The strong rise in NLRP3 inflammasome activation including caspase-1, ASC, IL-1β and IL-18 occurred following OVA and were specifically decreased following estrogen treatment. Moreover, the expression of Silent Information Regulator 1 (SIRT1) and ERα were reversed. The association between ERα-led inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome in conditions of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) and SIRT1-AMPK signaling were also examined. Results: Findings confirmed the prevention of NLRP3 inflammasome activation instigated by H 2 O 2 and the in vitro production of IL-1β, IL-18 together with the enhancement of this impact by SIRT1. Additionally, ERα's neuroprotective impact was prevented by inhibiting of AMPK. The synergistic impact of SIRT1 on ERα increased AMPK activation; however, SIRT1 knockout eliminated this. Conclusions: The findings indicate that inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome by ERα results in neuroprotection against hypoxia/ischemic injury and that ERα’s neuroprotection can be highly improved by the SIRT1-dependent AMPK pathway.
Evaluation of the effect of MTNR1B rs10830963 gene polymorphism on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in treating type 2 diabetes among Chinese Han patients
Authors: Song Jinfang , Zhang Mingzhu , Ni Jiang , Wang Tao , Zhao Yi-Qing
Published: September 2019

Background: Several studies have shown the association of polymorphisms in the MTNR1B gene with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, there is no evidence about the impacts of its genetic polymorphism on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide. Therefore, this prospective case-control study was designed to investigate the effect of MTNR1B rs10830963 gene polymorphism on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in treating T2DM. Methods: We genotyped 200 healthy subjects using the method of the high resolution of melting curve (HRM). A total of 60 T2DM patients were enrolled and given nateglinide (360 mg/d) for 8 weeks orally who had the same genotypes CYP2C9*1 and SLCO1B1 521TT respectively. The outcome was measured by collecting the venous blood samples before and at the 8th week of the treatment. Also, anthropometric measurements, glucose, and lipid metabolism were determined before and after the nateglinide treatment. Results: It was found that the risk G allelic frequency of MTNR1B rs10830963 was higher in T2DM patients when compared with the healthy subjects (P<0.05). 60 newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes after completing the eight weeks treatment came for the follow-up visit and showed a reduction in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels with an increase in homeostasis model assessment for β cell HOMA-β in the carriers of genotype CG + GG at rs10830963, when compared with the wild-type CC (P <0.05). Conclusion: Thus, it was found that the MTNR1B rs10830963 polymorphism was associated with the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in T2DM patients. Also, the CC homozygotes had a better effect than G allele carriers. Trial registration: This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Register (No. ChiCTR-CCC13003536).
Prevalence of and Characteristics Associated with In-Hospital Mortality in a Ugandan Neurology Ward
Authors: Diaz Monica Maria , Hu Xin , Fenton Brenda T , Kimuli Ivan , Lee Allison , Lindsey Hayley , Bigelow Jeffrey K , Maiser Samuel , Altalib Hamada H. , Sico Jason J
Published: September 2019

Background ― While the burden of neurologic illness in developing countries is increasing, less is known about mortality among patients admitted to sub-Saharan African hospitals with neurologic disease. We sought to characterize the rate and patient-level predictors of in-hospital mortality in a Ugandan Neurology ward.
Methods ― Data was prospectively collected on 335 patients admitted to the Neurology ward of Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and multivariate COX proportional hazard modeling were used to assess survival.
Results ―Within our sample (n=307), 35.8% received no diagnosis at time of hospital admission. Stroke (27.3%), head trauma (19.6%), and malaria (16.0%) were the most common diagnoses. Among the 56 (18.5%) patients who died during the index hospitalization, the most common diagnosis at admission and at death was stroke. Adjusted regression analysis showed that patients without a diagnosis at time of death (HR=7.01 [2.42-20.35], p<.001) and those with diagnoses of infections (HR=5.21 [2.16-12.58], p=<.001), stroke (HR=2.69 [1.20-6.04], p=.017), or head trauma (HR=3.39, [1.27-9.07], p=0.15) had worse survival.
Conclusions ― In-hospital mortality affected nearly 20% of the cohort, with worse survival among those without a diagnosis and with infections, stroke, head trauma. Future work should identify reasons for increased mortality among these high-risk groups and implement targeted interventions.
Influence of climatic factors on aggression and infectivity of Anopheles in the districts the Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) in Northern Benin, West Africa.
Authors: SOMINAHOUIN André , Padonou Germain Gil , Landéhou Rodrigue , Salako Albert Sourou , Sagbohan Hermann , Ahogni Idelphonse , Lokonon Sylvain , Osse Razaki , Assogba Bénoît , Agossa Fiacre , Dagnon Fortuné , Houssou Christophe , Akogbéto Martin C.
Published: September 2019

Background: Climate variability influence the diversity and abundance of malaria vectors and thereby on malaria transmission dynamics. Examine its effect on Anopheles parameters involved in transmission may predict the potential malaria hotspot as a right target for its control intervention strategies. Here, we investigated the influence of meteorological parameters on the aggressiveness and infectivity of Anopheles in two health districts zones where IRS has been extended in Northern Benin. Methods: Mosquito collections were carried out using human landing catches to evaluate rates of aggression and infectivity in twelve villages. Concomitantly, meteorological data from synoptic stations of Benin and neighbouring countries were collected in 2016-2017. Results: The spatial distribution of infective bites of An. gambiae is characterized by an intense aggression in the rural villages of the study area. Analysis of variances showed significant HBR difference according to the period but not according to the locality. However, the same analysis carried out with the infectivity rate shows no significant difference according to the period and the locality. In addition, the number of infective bites per man per month is higher in August and October, and the climatic parameters that have mainly favoured aggression are wind speed, humidity, sunshine and temperature. Indeed, the peak of wind speed is concentrated around 1.2 km / h and in September (5 km / h) whereas the aggressiveness score of Anopheles in the region is greater than 10 infective bites per man a year. Conclusion Malaria transmission by Anopheles is influenced by climatic factors. The climate observed in the districts where IRS was extended in northern Benin has a real impact on Anopheles density and weakens current and future vector control strategies. This could lead to a series of modifications observed in anopheline populations just after IRS implementation ranging from a tendency to exophagy, from a decrease in the rate of blood-feeding to changes in the time, and change in aggressiveness. These phenomena most likely contribute to the sustainability of malaria transmission despite vector control measures. Keywords: Infectivity, aggression, Climate, Anopheles gambiae ( s.l. ), IRS, Benin.
Comparative Efficacy of Glucocorticoid Receptor Agonists on Th2 Cell Function and Attenuation by Progesterone
Authors: Luchak Alexander , Solomon Lauren A , Kanagalingam Tharsan , Rowe Brian H , Cameron Lisa
Published: September 2019

Background: Corticosteroids (CS) suppress cytokine production and induce apoptosis of inflammatory cells. Prednisone and dexamethasone are oral CS prescribed for treating asthma exacerbations. While prednisone is more commonly prescribed, dexamethasone is long acting and a more potent glucocorticoid receptor (GR) agonist. It can be administered as a one or two dose regime, unlike the five to seven days required for prednisone, a feature that increases compliance. We compared the relative ability of these two oral CS to suppress type 2 inflammation. Since progesterone has affinity for the GR and women are more likely to relapse following an asthma exacerbation, we assessed its influence on CS action. Results: Dexamethasone suppressed the level of IL-5 and IL-13 mRNA within Th2 cells with 10-fold less than prednisolone (the active form of prednisone). Dexamethasone induced a higher proportion of apoptotic and dying cells than prednisolone, at all concentrations examined. Addition of progesterone reduced their capacity to drive cell death, though dexamethasone maintained significantly more killing activity. Progesterone blunted dexamethasone-induction of FKBP5 mRNA, indicating the mechanism of action was by interference of the GC:GR complex. Conclusions: Dexamethasone is both more potent and effective than prednisolone in suppressing type 2 cytokine levels and mediating apoptosis. Progesterone attenuated these anti-inflammatory effects, indicating its potential influence on corticosteroid responses in vivo . Collectively, our data suggest that when oral corticosteroid is required, dexamethasone may be better able to control type 2 inflammation, eliminate Th2 cells and ultimately lead to improved long-term outcomes. Further research in asthmatics is needed
Comparative transcriptomics reveal conserved impacts of rearing density on immune response of two important aquaculture species
Authors: Ellison Amy , Webster Tamsyn Uren , Rodriguez-Barreto Deiene , de Leaniz Carlos Garcia , Consuegra Sonia , Orozco-terWengel Pablo , Cable Jo
Published: September 2019

Background: Infectious diseases represent an important barrier to sustainable aquaculture development. Rearing density can substantially impact fish productivity, health and welfare in aquaculture, including growth rates, behaviour and, crucially, immune activity. Given the current emphasis on aquaculture diversification, stress-related indicators broadly applicable across species are needed. Results: Utilising an interspecific comparative transcriptomic (RNAseq) approach, we compared gill gene expression responses of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) to rearing density and Saprolegnia parasitica infection. Salmon reared at high-density showed increased expression of stress-related markers (e.g. c-fos and hsp70), and downregulation of innate immune genes. Upon pathogen challenge, only salmon reared at low density exhibited increased expression of inflammatory interleukins and lymphocyte-related genes. Tilapia immunity, in contrast, was impaired at low-density. Using overlapping gene ontology enrichment and gene ortholog analyses, we found that density-related stress similarly impacted salmon and tilapia in key immune pathways, altering the expression of genes vital to inflammatory and Th17 responses to pathogen challenge. Conclusions: Given the challenges posed by ectoparasites and gill diseases in fish farms, this study underscores the importance of optimal rearing densities for immunocompetence, particularly for mucosal immunity. Our comparative transcriptomics analyses identified density stress impacted immune markers common across different fish taxa, providing key molecular targets with potential for monitoring and enhancing aquaculture resilience in a wide range of farmed species.
Peripheral Non-enzymatic Antioxidants in Patients with Schizophrenia：A Case-control Study
Authors: Lu Zhe , Wen Tianyang , Wang Yingtan , Kan Weijing , Xun Guanglei
Published: September 2019

Background: Recent studies show that oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. There are two major types of antioxidant systems in vivo, namely enzymatic antioxidants and non-enzymatic antioxidants. This study investigated the differences of non-enzymatic antioxidant between schizophrenia patients and healthy controls. Methods: Peripheral UA, ALB and TBIL were measured respectively in 107 schizophrenic patients in acute stage and in 101 schizophrenic patients in remission stage, as well as in 273 healthy controls. Results: The levels of UA (P=0.020) and TBIL (P<0.001) in schizophrenic patients in acute stage were higher than healthy controls, and the level of ALB (P<0.001) was lower. Similar results were detected in schizophrenic patients in remission stage. Schizophrenic patients in acute stage were divided into antipsychotics-use subgroup (n=56) and antipsychotics-naïve/free subgroup (n=51). The level of UA (P=0.001) in antipsychotics-use subgroup was higher than that in antipsychotics-naïve/free subgroup, while the level of TBIL (P=0.002) was lower than that in antipsychotics-naïve/free subgroup. 77 schizophrenic patients in acute stage were followed up, and there was no significant difference in level of UA before and after treatment, but levels of ALB (P<0.001) and TBIL (P<0.001) decreased significantly after the treatment. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the dysfunction of peripheral non-enzymatic anti-oxidation system might be involved the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Keywords: Schizophrenia; Uric acid; Albumin; Total bilirubin
Psychosocial supports utilized by caregivers of patients with dementia in South western Uganda: A qualitative investigation
Authors: Abaasa Catherine , Obua Celestino , Wakida Edith K , Rukundo Godfrey Zari
Published: September 2019

Background Patients with dementia experience problems ranging from mild to severe impairments in daily life activities. In Uganda, like in most other low and middle-income countries, families are a cornerstone in providing care to patients with dementia. Serving as a caregiver for a person with Alzheimer’s disease is a physically, emotionally and financially demanding role, that is associated with increased stress, depression, fatigue, and financial strain. These have often resulted in elder abuse or neglect of the patients. Currently, data on psychosocial supports available to caregivers of patients with dementia in Uganda is not available.Methods We conducted a qualitative assessment of the psychosocial supports available to caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in southwestern Uganda, including the content of the formal and informal support interventions and by whom they are delivered.Results Medical practitioners provide educational support on the diagnosis and prognosis of dementia, but may not provide emotional support in the form of counseling to caregivers of patients with dementia. Caregivers in Southwestern Uganda, receive unstructured emotional and instrumental support from sources outside of the medical system such as family and community, which leave the Caregivers in confusion.Conclusions The medical care system offers some information about the clinical presentation of Alzheimer’s disease but little or no psychosocial support to the Caregivers of patients with the disease. This has implications for how families and Caregivers cope with the day-to-day care of patients with Alzheimer’s disease in Uganda and calls for institutionalization of structured psychosocial support for Caregivers to improve the care given to Alzheimer’s patients.
Handwriting in Children with Attention Deficient Hyperactive Disorder analyzing by graphology
Authors: Cohen Rony , Cohen-Kroitoru Batia , Halevy Ayelet , Aharoni Sharon , Aizenberg Irena , Shuper Avinoam
Published: September 2019

Objective Handwriting difficulties are common to children with attention deficient hyperactive disorder (ADHD). The aim of our study was to find distinctive characteristics of the handwriting of children with ADHD by using graphology to analyze physical characteristics and patterns of their handwriting, and to evaluate whether graphological analysis is an effective ADHD diagnostic tool for clinicians.Method A graphologist analyzed handwriting text from 49 patients, 22/49 previously diagnosed with ADHD, aged 13-18 years, in a randomized, single-blinded study. All study participants wrote a story in Hebrew in 10-12 lines, on a blank paper with a blue pen, during a period of twenty minutes. A licensed graphologist was given the papers, without details, for characterize evaluation. The graphologist suggested a profile of a person with ADHD, and every patient received one point for each ADHD handwriting characteristic, up to 15 points. Patients with 9-15 points were considered to have ADHD, based on their graphology evaluation.Results The study group included 21 (43%) males and 28 (57%) females, with 15 (71.4%) males and 7 (25%) females diagnosed with ADHD. Overall, the mean score in the ADHD group (9.6, SD=3.49) was significantly higher ( p =0.002) than in the control group (5.79, SD=4.01).Conclusion Handwriting in ADHD children and adolescence has specific characteristics, thus graphological analysis could be a useful tool for clinicians in diagnosis of ADHD.
The oxidative effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Human retinal pigment epithelium cells
Authors: Li Jialin , Chao I-Chen , Luan Jie
Published: September 2019

Background: Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy has been widely used in various diseases, which is considered safe and effective. Whereas recent studies discovered that HBO therapy could result in oxidative damage to tissues. The goal of our study was to investigate the oxidative effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. Method: Human REP cells (ARPE-19) were cultured in vitro, and divided into normoxic group （incubated with DMEM/F12 broth）and hypoxic group (incubated with DMEM/F12 broth containing 200μmol/L CoCl2) randomly. The experimental groups were exposed to 100% pure oxygen under different pressures (0.15MPa, 0.2MPa, and 0.25MPa) for 60 and 90 minutes thrice, with 24 hours interval. Then the cell viability, 8-OHdG expression and hOGG1 expression of RPE cells were detected by MTT assay, immunocytochemistry (ICC) and western blot seperately. Result: After HBO exposure, cell proliferation decreased, 8-OHdG and hOGG1 expression increased in normoxic RPE cells compared with control group, whereas in hypoxic RPE cells, cell proliferation increased, 8-OHdG and hOGG1 expression decreased compared with hypoxic control group. Conclusion: HBO therapy could suppress the cell proliferation and cause oxidative DNA damage of RPE cells in normoxic status. Conversely, in hypoxic status, HBO therapy could promote the proliferation and ameliorate oxidative DNA damage of human retinal pigment epithelium cells. Meanwhile, HBO therapy could trigger the oxidative DNA damage repair of RPE cells in both normoxic and hypoxic statues.
Detecting influenza and emerging avian influenza virus by influenza and pneumonia surveillance systems in a large city in China, 2005 to 2016
Authors: Guo Xiaorong , Yang Dong , Liu Ruchun , Li Yaman , Hu Qingqing , Ma Xinrui , Li Yelan , Zhang Heng , Zhang Xixing , Zhao Benhua , Chen Tianmu
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND: Detecting avian influenza virus has become an important public health strategy for controlling the emerging infectious disease.
METHODS: The HIS (hospital information system) modified influenza surveillance system (ISS) and a newly built pneumonia surveillance system (PSS) were used to monitor the influenza viruses in Changsha City, China. The ISS was used to monitor outpatients in two sentinel hospitals and to detect mild influenza and avian influenza cases, and PSS was used to monitor inpatients in 49 hospitals and to detect severe and death influenza cases.
RESULTS: From 2005 to 2016, there were 3,551,917 outpatients monitored by the ISS system, among whom 126,076 were influenza-like illness (ILI) cases, with the ILI proportion (ILI%) of 3.55%. After the HIS was used, the reported incident cases of ILI and ILI% were increased significantly. From March, 2009 to September, 2016, there were 5,491,560 inpatient cases monitored by the PSS system, among which 362,743 were pneumonia cases, with a proportion of 6.61%. Among pneumonia cases, about 10.55% (38,260/362,743) of cases were severe or death cases. The pneumonia incidence increased each year in the city. Among 15 avian influenza cases reported from January, 2005 to September, 2016, there were 26.7% (4/15) mild cases detected by the HIS-modified ISS system, while 60.0% (9/15) were severe or death cases detected by the PSS system. Two H5N1 severe cases were missed by the ISS system in January, 2009 when the PSS system was not available.
CONCLUSIONS: The HIS was able to improve the efficiency of the ISS for monitoring ILI and emerging avian influenza virus. However, the efficiency of the system needs to be verified in a wider area for a longer time span in China.
Peripapillary retinal artery in first diagnosed and untreated normal tension glaucoma
Authors: RONG XIN , Cai Yu , Li Mei , Fang Yuan , Tian Tian , Pan Yingzi
Published: September 2019

Background Glaucoma, an important cause of visual impairment in many countries, remains a common eye condition due to difficulties in its early diagnosis. We analyzed the characteristics of retinal arteries to add a valuable technology for helping the normal tension glaucoma (NTG) diagnosis.
Methods This study included 51 patients with newly diagnosed NTG with hemifield defects and 60 age-matched controls. Peripapillary retinal arteriolar calibers (PRACs) photoed by non-mydriatic retinal camera were measured using ImageJ by two masked readers. We also performed spectral-domain optical coherence tomography to evaluate retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) and optic disc parameters. Their relations to retinal arteriolar calibers were investigated by univariate and multivariate linear regression. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was used to confirm the powers to detect NTG by PRACs.
Results PRACs in four quadrants were significantly reduced in individuals with first diagnosed NTG (82 ± 15.1 μm, 80 ± 13.6 μm, 71 ± 11.6 μm, and 64 ±10.0 μm) compared with those in age-matched controls (101 ± 9.8 μm, 105 ± 8.7 μm, 90 ± 7.5 μm, and 82 ± 9.8 μm). Superotemporal and inferotemporal PRACs in the visual field-affected hemifield were narrower than those in the unaffected hemifield in NTG group ( P ≤0.004). Temporal PRACs in the RNFL unaffected hemifield were significantly narrower than in healthy eyes ( P <0.001). Superotemporal PRAC showed a significant correlation with superior RNFLT (β=0.659, P <0.001), and a similar relationship was found between inferotemporal PRAC and inferior RNFLT (β=0.227, P =0.015). The diagnostic capability of temporal PRACs was satisfactory (superotemporal PRAC; AUROC 0.983, cut-off value 84.7 μm, inferotemporal PRAC; AUROC 0.946, cut-off value 94.2 μm).
Conclusions PRAC and infero temporal PRAC are valid parameters for discriminating patients with NTG.
Comparison of vascular parameters between normal cynomolgus macaques and healthy humans by optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Peng Jingyi , Zhong Liuxueying , Ma Li , Jin Jiayi , Zheng Yongxin , Jin Chenjin
Published: September 2019

Background: The metabolic activity of retina is higher than other human tissues and is crucial to the vision. Cynomolgus macaques is widely used in ophthalmic disease research. The evaluation and comparison of macular and optic disc vascular circulation parameters between normal adult cynomolgus macaques and healthy adult humans using OCT-A can promote better use of nonhuman primate models in studies of ophthalmic vascular disease.
Methods: 12 normal adult cynomolgus macaques with a mean age of 4.91±0.43 years were studied for data collection. The macula of 28 adult healthy humans (14 males and 14 females), with a mean age of 25.11±6.21 years and the optic discs of 9 adult healthy humans (4 males and 5 females) with a mean age of 28.56±6.78 years were measured. The vessel density (VD) was measured using an RTVue XR with AngioVue. The scan sizes of the macular and optic discs were 3×3 mm and 4.5×4.5 mm, respectively.
Results: OCT-A can image the superficial and deep capillary plexuses and radial peripapillary capillary network. In RPC layer of the optic disc, the VD in the nasal quadrant was lower than the VD in the inferior temporal quadrant. Similarities and significant differences in VD between healthy humans and cynomolgus macaques were obtained using OCT-A.
Conclusions: This study provides normal vascular parameters for adult cynomolgus macaques using OCT-A to help establish an optical parameter database for cynomolgus macaques and compare VD between healthy humans and cynomolgus macaques to promote choroid-retinopathy research.
Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials NCT03692169, retrospectively registered on 26 sept 2018
Keywords: Cynomolgus macaques, Healthy humans, Vascular, Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A), Vessel density (VD)
INVESTIGATION OF THE HEATING PROCESSES AND TEMPERATURE FIELD OF THE FREQUENCY-CONTROLLED ASYNCHRONOUS ENGINE BASED ON MATHEMATICAL MODELS
Authors: Zubenko Denis , Petrenko Alexander , Dulfan Sergii
Published: September 2019

The study of the temperature field of the engine for non-stationary modes is done. A numerical simulation of a non-stationary thermal process using dynamic EHD, the characteristic of the rate of rise of temperatures is done. An increase in the temperature of individual parts in the idle interval, when the power of heat release is significantly reduced, is established, and the reverse of the heat flow through the air gap is established. It is shown that the EHD method, in contrast to the FEM, is self-sufficient, which determines its practical value. In various parts of the speed control range in the implementation of various laws of regulation. At the same time, the main electrical, magnetic and additional losses associated with the fundamental voltage harmonics (FVH), and mechanical losses, as well as additional electrical and magnetic losses associated with the higher voltage harmonics, change. When using serial asynchronous engines as frequency-controlled. Permissible under the conditions of heating power is significantly reduced by the power of serial engines. Depending on the synchronous speed, the reduction is from 10 % to 20 %. Given the additional overheating due to higher voltage harmonics, as well as the deterioration of the cooling conditions when adjusting the rotational speed "down" from the nominal, it seems very relevant.
DEVELOPMENT OF A SELF-ADJUSTING METHOD FOR CALCULATING RECURRENT DIAGRAMS IN A SPACE WITH A SCALAR PRODUCT
Authors: Pospelov Boris , Meleshchenko Ruslan , Asotskyi Vitalii , Petukhova Olena , Gornostal Stella , Harbuz Serhii
Published: September 2019

A self-adjusting method for calculating recurrence diagrams has been developed. The proposed method is aimed at overcoming the metric-threshold uncertainty inherent in the known methods for calculating recurrence diagrams. The method provides invariance to the nature of the measured data, and also allows to display the recurrence of states, adequate to real systems of various fields. A new scientific result consists in the theoretical justification of the method for calculating recurrence diagrams, which is capable of overcoming the existing metric-threshold uncertainty of known methods on the basis of self-adjusting by measurements by improving the topology of the metric space. The topology is improved due to the additional introduction of the scalar product of state vectors into the operation space. This allowed to develop a self-adjusting method for calculating recurrence diagrams with increased accuracy and adequacy of the display of recurrence states of real systems. Moreover, the method has a relatively low computational complexity, providing invariance with respect to the nature of the irregularity of measurements.

Verification of the proposed method was carried out on the basis of experimental measurements of concentrations of gas pollutants of atmospheric air for a typical industrial city. The main gas pollutants of the atmosphere are formaldehyde, ammonia and nitrogen dioxide, caused by stationary and mobile sources of urban pollution. The obtained experimental verification results confirm the increased accuracy and adequacy of the display of the recurrence of atmospheric pollution states, as well as the invariance of the method with respect to the nature of the irregularity of measurements. It has been established that the accuracy of the method is influenced by the a priori boundary angular dimensions of the recurrence cone. It was shown that with a decrease in the boundary angular dimensions of the recurrence cone, the accuracy of the recurrence mapping of the real states of dynamical systems in the calculated diagrams increases. It was experimentally established that the accuracy and adequacy of the mapping of the recurrence states of real dynamical systems acceptable for applications is provided for a boundary angular size of the recurrence cone of 10° or less.
METHOD FOR DETECTING SHILLING ATTACKS IN E-COMMERCE SYSTEMS USING WEIGHTED TEMPORAL RULES
Authors: Chala Oksana , Novikova Lyudmyla , Chernyshova Larysa
Published: September 2019

The problem of shilling attacks detecting in e-commerce systems is considered. The purpose of such attacks is to artificially change the rating of individual goods or services by users in order to increase their sales. A method for detecting shilling attacks based on a comparison of weighted temporal rules for the processes of selecting objects with explicit and implicit feedback from users is proposed. Implicit dependencies are specified through the purchase of goods and services. Explicit feedback is formed through the ratings of these products. The temporal rules are used to describe hidden relationships between the choices of user groups at two consecutive time intervals. The method includes the construction of temporal rules for explicit and implicit feedback, their comparison, as well as the formation of an ordered subset of temporal rules that capture potential shilling attacks. The method imposes restrictions on the input data on sales and ratings, which must be ordered by time or have timestamps. This method can be used in combination with other approaches to detecting shilling attacks. Integration of approaches allows to refine and supplement the existing attack patterns, taking into account the latest changes in user priorities.
THE INFLUENCE OF VAGINAL SUPPOSITORIES “MELANIZOL” ON THE SYSTEM OF LPO-AOS IN CONDITION OF MODEL OF A NONSPECIFIC VAGINITIS IN RATS
Authors: Dolzhykova Olena , Maloshtan Ludmila
Published: September 2019

It is known that almost any pathology is accompanied by an imbalance of the lipid peroxidation (LPO) and the antioxidant system (AOS), and diseases of the female reproductive system are no exception. Thus, modern therapies of nonspecific vaginitis (NV) should include drugs with an antioxidant effect in the complex treatment, because the role of the LPO-AOS system in the mechanism for the development of NV is great. This problem can be solved by new complex drug with plant material with a wide spectrum of action.

Aim. The aim of our research was to study the effect of new vaginal suppositories “Melanizol”, containing metronidazole and tea tree oil on the system of LPO-AOS on a model of nonspecific vaginitis in rats.

Materials and methods. The study object was the new vaginal suppositories “Melanizol”. As reference drugs there were taken suppositories “Gravagin” and “Hippophaes oleum suppositories”. The study has been carried out on the model of experimental nonspecific (irritative) vaginitis caused in rats by the mixture of turpentine oil and dimethyl sulfoxide. Blood serum and vaginal tissue were used as the material for the study. Thiobarbituric acid-active products (TBA-AP) were determined as the component of a lipid peroxidation. The catalase (CAT), the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the reduced glutathione (G-SH) were determined as the component of an antioxidant system.

Results and discussion. On the background of experimental vaginitis in serum and in vaginal tissue homogenate in rats, significant changes in indicators of the LPO-AOS were noted. Change of these indicators show a systemic response of the body to pathological changes in the vagina, which is manifested in the depletion of AOS and activation of the LPO. The vaginal suppositories “Melanizol” in the study on the model of nonspecific (irritative) vaginitis in rats showed an antioxidant effect. Suppositories “Melanizol” significantly reduce the level of TBA-AP, interfering with lipid peroxidation processes, and restore the level of G-SH, as well as the activity of SOD and catalase in the blood and in the vaginal homogenate, helping to protect the cell membranes. Suppositories “Melanizol” significantly exceed the reference suppositories “Gravagin” and are not inferior to the reference drug “Hippophaes oleum suppositories” in activity to reduce the level of TBA-AP, and to restore the level of G-SH, as well as restoration the activity of SOD and CAT. Antioxidant activity of vaginal suppositories “Melanizol” can be explained by the presence of tea tree oil and metronidazole in their composition, which is confirmed by literature data.

Conclusions. The conducted researches have shown that the new vaginal suppositories “Melanizol” demonstrated antioxidation activity. Results of this experiment allow us to recommend them for the further studies as medication for the treatment of nonspecific vaginitis.
IMPROVEMENT OF THE METHOD OF COMPARATIVE STUDY OF MILK WHEY PROTEINS ENZYMATIC HYDROLYSIS
Authors: Yukalo Volodymyr , Datsyshyn Kateryna , Storozh Liudmyla
Published: September 2019

Milk whey proteins are valueble nutritional ingredients with a number of health-beneficial properties. Whey proteins are also a source of bioactive peptides that can be released in the process of proteins enzymatic hydrolysis. In this connection, there often is a need to compare their proteolytic action on milk whey proteins. It is important to take into account the specificities of the composition and properties of milk whey proteins. The aim of the research was to improve the method of comparative study of milk whey proteins enzymatic hydrolysis. Casein and whey were obtained from fresh cow skimmed milk. The whey was separated by centrifugation after casein precipitation at the isoelectric point. The following enzyme preparations were used in the research: neutral protease, papain, trypsin, chymotrypsin and pancreatin. To select β-LG, gel filtration of the milk whey on the chromatographic column with Sephadex G-150 (Pharmacia) was used. The homogeneity of the received β-LG preparation was analyzed by express electrophoresis in the polyacrylamide gel plates (PAG). The preparation of general casein was isolated by repeated precipitation at the isoelectric point. The fractional composition of the casein substrate was analyzed by electrophoresis in the anode system of homogeneous PAG in the presence of urea. Quantitative treatment of electrophoregrams of the β-LG preparation was performed using the imread reading function. Determination of proteolytic activity of enzyme preparations was carried out according to the method of V. F. Selemenev [6]. In the course of the research, it was determined, that for the research of proteolysis under conditions of identical total proteolytic activity, the concentration of neutral protease should be increased by 1.02 times, papain – by 4.2 times, trypsin – by 2.8 times, pancreatin – by 2.12 times as compared to chymotrypsin. As a result, it has been shown that the use of β-lactoglobulininstead of serum albumin in spectrophotometric determinations allows obtaining more accurate values of the concentrations of whey protein and proteolytic products. In determining the ratio of enzyme : substrate it is advisable to take into account the general proteolytic activity of various enzyme preparations in comparative studies of whey proteins proteolysis with various enzyme preparations. These will simplify the methodology and reduce the time for objective evaluation of enzymatic preparations for proteolysis of milk whey proteins. In some cases, considering the specificity of proteases it could increase the yield of biologically active peptides.
Ensemble of constraint-handling techniques for solving reservoir scheduling problems
Authors: Hu Tengfei , Shi Yong , Luan Zhenyu , Xu Yifan , Mao Jingqiao
Published: September 2019

Reservoir scheduling based on evolutionary algorithms needs to handle potentially stringent physical and operational constraints. Both generic and reservoir scheduling problem-specific constraint-handling techniques (CHTs) have their own merits and limitations. No CHT currently available can yield better solutions than the others consistently. To ensure good reservoir operation schedules, we develop an ensemble of CHTs (ECHT) that can utilize the advantages of different individual CHTs. In the ensemble, each CHT has its own population. In every generation, the different offspring populations are mixed together and evaluated. Each CHT then assigns fitness to all individuals and selects some of them to form its new parent population. The ECHT has been tested against long-term hydropower scheduling of two large-scale reservoir systems in China. Results show that the ECHT outperforms the state-of-the-art CHTs, and its probability of returning feasible solutions is much higher. The reservoir levels optimized with the ECHT are well suited for hydropower generation, which also reduce the chance of reservoir spilling.
Jingshu Keli and its Components Notoginsenoside R1 and Ginsenoside Rb1 Alleviate the Symptoms of Cervical Myelopathy through Kir3.1 Mediated Mechanisms
Authors: Yan Renjie , Chen Rui , Wang Jiahui , Shi Jian , dos Santos Wagner Ferreira , Xu Zhiru , Liu Li
Published: September 2019

Background & Objective::

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy (CSM) is one of the most serious spinal cord disorders in adults. Pharmacological modulation of ion channels is a common strategy to interfere with CSM and prevent neuronal damage.

Methods:

Here, we investigated the effects of Jingshu Keli (JSKL), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, on CSM-related gait abnormality, mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, and assessed the neuronal mechanisms of JSKL on cultured brainstem cells. Behavioral tests and patch clamp recordings were performed to make this assessment.

Results:

In our study, we found that JSKL significantly recovered the gait performance (P<0.001) and decreased the levels of mechanical pain in 18.9% (P<0.01) and thermal pain in 18.1% (P<0.05). Further investigation suggested that JSKL and its containing ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1), notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) reduced the action potential frequency in 38.5%, 27.2%, 25.9%, and hyperpolarized resting membrane potential in 15.0%, 13.8%, 12.1%, respectively. Kir channels, not KV channels and KCa channels, were the major intermediate factors achieving treatment effects. Finally, immunostaining results showed that the phosphorylation of Kir3.1 was promoted, whereas the total expression level did not change.

Conclusion:

Our study reveals a novel strategy of treating CSM by using Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) containing active components.
Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from Endophytic Fungi
Authors: Ancheeva Elena , Daletos Georgios , Proksch Peter
Published: September 2019

Background:

Endophytes represent a complex community of microorganisms colonizing
asymptomatically internal tissues of higher plants. Several reports have shown that endophytes enhance
the fitness of their host plants by direct production of bioactive secondary metabolites, which are involved
in protecting the host against herbivores and pathogenic microbes. In addition, it is increasingly
apparent that endophytes are able to biosynthesize medicinally important “phytochemicals”, originally
believed to be produced only by their host plants.

Objective:

The present review provides an overview of secondary metabolites from endophytic fungi
with pronounced biological activities covering the literature between 2010 and 2017. Special focus is
given on studies aiming at exploration of the mode of action of these metabolites towards the discovery
of leads from endophytic fungi. Moreover, this review critically evaluates the potential of endophytic
fungi as alternative sources of bioactive “plant metabolites”.

Results:

Over the past few years, several promising lead structures from endophytic fungi have been
described in the literature. In this review, 65 metabolites are outlined with pronounced biological activities,
primarily as antimicrobial and cytotoxic agents. Some of these metabolites have shown to be
highly selective or to possess novel mechanisms of action, which hold great promises as potential drug
candidates.

Conclusion:

Endophytes represent an inexhaustible reservoir of pharmacologically important compounds.
Moreover, endophytic fungi could be exploited for the sustainable production of bioactive
“plant metabolites” in the future. Towards this aim, further insights into the dynamic endophyte - host
plant interactions and origin of endophytic fungal genes would be of utmost importance.
Biomimetic Nanostructures with Compositional Gradient Grown by Combinatorial Matrix-Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Axente Emanuel , Sima Felix
Published: September 2019

:

There is permanent progress with the fabrication of smart bioactive surfaces that
could govern tissue regeneration. Thin coatings of two or more materials with compositional
gradient allow the construction of arrays with different chemical and physical features on a
solid substrate. With such intelligent bio-platforms, cells can be exposed to a tissue-like
biomimetic micro-environment with precise characteristics that directs cells fate towards specific
phenotypes.

:

We have introduced combinatorial matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (C-MAPLE) as an
alternative approach for the fabrication in a single-step process of either organic or inorganic
thin and nanostructured coatings with variable composition. A continuous reciprocal gradient
of two biomolecules can be achieved by C-MAPLE with discrete areas exhibiting physicochemical
specificity that modulates intracellular signaling events.

:

Herein, we present a review of the current combinatorial laser strategies and methods for fabricating
thin organic and inorganic films with compositional gradient with emphasis on the
surface influence on cell responsiveness. In particular, the specific biological potential of surface
functionalization with thin coatings of biopolymers, proteins and drugs will be discussed.
Laser deposition combinatorial processes are considered an emerging unconventional technology
that can be widely applied to produce composite multilayers and micro-patterns for
faster cell colonization and tissue engineering.
Green and Facile Synthesis of Pyrimidine Derivatives Using Choline Chloride-urea Mixture as a Deep Eutectic Solvent or Cerium (IV) Ammonium Nitrate
Authors: Behalo Mohamed S. , Abdelmajeid Abdelmotaal , Aly Aly A. , Hebash Kaouser A. , Mohamed Enas A.
Published: September 2019

An efficient and facile synthesis of substituted pyrimidine derivatives through
Biginelli type reaction was achieved in high yields via one-pot reaction of aromatic aldehydes,
active methylene compounds and urea or thiourea in the presence of choline chloride-
urea mixture as a deep eutectic solvent or cerium (IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN) as a
catalyst at different conditions. The reaction was carried out using different ratio of CAN
in different solvents to determine the optimum conditions. In addition, 2-mercapto-6-oxo-
4-(thiophen-2-yl)-1,6-dihydropyrimidine-5-carbonitrile was employed in the synthesis of
pyrimidinylhydrazide and its corresponding hydrazone. The structural formula of all derivatives
was confirmed and characterized by their elemental analyses and spectral data
(IR, MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR).
Synthesis of Solid-phase Supported Chiral Amines and Investigation of Stereoselectivity of Aldol Reactions of Amine-free Tropinone Enolate
Authors: Nodzewska Aneta , Wadolowska Agnieszka , Podgorska Katarzyna , Pawelski Damian , Lazny Ryszard
Published: September 2019

Seven selected chiral mono-, di-, and tridentate amines supported on insoluble
polymer were effectively prepared from corresponding primary amines or secondary
amino alcohols and Merrifield resin. The reaction of the polymer-supported amines with
excess n-butyllithium gave the corresponding lithium amide bases, which were tested in
the aldol reactions of tropinone with benzaldehyde. The deprotonation reactions were carried
out with or without separation of the lithium enolate from polymer-supported reagents.
Using the procedure with separation of lithium enolate from supported chiral reagent
different results were obtained with or without the addition of LiCl despite the fact
that aggregate formation of Merrifield resin supported Li-amides is hindered. Without the
additive, the aldol products were obtained in low diastereoselectivity and enantioselectivity,
whereas the addition of LiCl resulted in a significant increase of de and ee even when LiCl was added after
the deprotonation step and separation of the chiral amine.
Potential metabolic and behavioural roles of the putative endocannabinoid receptors GPR18, GPR55 and GPR119 in feeding
Authors: Ramírez-Orozco Ricardo E. , García-Ruiz Ricardo , Morales Paula , Villalón Carlos M. , Villafán-Bernal J. Rafael , Marichal-Cancino Bruno A.
Published: September 2019

:

Endocannabinoids are ancient biomolecules involved in several cellular (e.g., metabolism)
and physiological (e.g., eating behaviour) functions. Indeed, eating behaviour alterations in
marijuana users have led to investigate the orexigenic/anorexigenic effects of cannabinoids in animal/
human models. This increasing body of research suggests that the endocannabinoid system
plays an important role in feeding control. Accordingly, within the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid
receptors, enzymes and genes represent potential therapeutic targets for dealing with multiple
metabolic and behavioural dysfunctions (e.g., obesity, anorexia, etc.). Paradoxically, our understanding
on the endocannabinoid system as a cellular mediator is yet limited. For example: (i)
only two cannabinoid receptors have been classified, but they are not enough to explain the pharmacological
profile of several experimental effects induced by cannabinoids; and (ii) several orphan
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) interact with cannabinoids and we do not know how to classify
them (e.g., GPR18, GPR55 and GPR119; amongst others).

:

On this basis, the present review attempts to summarize the lines of evidence supporting the potential
role of GPR18, GPR55 and GPR119 in metabolism and feeding control that may explain some
of the divergent effects and puzzling data related to cannabinoid research. Moreover, their therapeutic
potential in feeding behaviour alterations will be considered.