bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing a fine-grained entity recognition corpus based on clinical records of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: zhang tingting , Wang Yaqiang , Wang Xiaofeng , Yang Yafei , Ye Ying
Published: October 2019

Objective ： In this paper, we focused on building a fine-grained entity annotation corpus with corresponding annotation guideline of Traditional Chinese Medicine ( TCM ) clinical records, and to provide an effective way to build more corpora of TCM clinical records in the future. Methods: Instead of previous research methods, we proposed four steps approach which is suitable for TCM medical records in our corpus construction work. Firstly, determine the entity types included in this study through sample annotation method; secondly, draft our fine-grained annotation guideline by summarizing the characteristics of the dataset and referring to some existing guidelines; thirdly, update the guideline through iterative annotations way until the inter-annotator agreement (IAA) value exceed 0.9, kappa value was used to measure the IAA; fourthly, comprehensive annotations were performed, if IAA value exceeds 0.9 stably . After above four method steps, we succeeded to construct the fine-grained entity recognition corpus of TCM clinical records. Results: There are 4 entity categories involving 13 entity types being determined finally. The fine-grained annotated entity corpus consists of 1104 entities and 67799 tokens totally. The final IAAs are 0.93, 0.94, 0.94 respectively (between two of the three annotators), the IAA value show the fine-grained entity recognition corpus are of high quality. We constructed a fine-grained annotated guideline and entity recognition corpus of TCM clinical records. Conclusions: The four-step method was of high quality, the corpus constructed in this study was an encouraging example . Based on this approach, more comprehensive corpus about TCM clinical records will be built to support the TCM named entity recognition tasks in future research.
Genome-wide Identification of the POD Gene Family and their Expression Profiling in Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L)
Authors: Xiao Huilin , Wang Chaoping , Khan Nadeem , Chen Mengxia , Fu Weihong , Guan Le , Leng Xiangpeng
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study is by extending the analysis of class III peroxidases (PODs) in grapevine and provide further insights into the organ-specific developmental role in transcriptional dynamics and gene duplication analysis of this economically important fruit crop species. Herein, we comprehensively identified 47 PODs in the grapevine genome and are further classified into 7 subgroups based on their phylogenetic analysis. Results of motif composition and gene structure organization analysis revealed that PODs in the same subgroup shared similar conjunction while the protein sequences were highly conserved. Intriguingly, the integrated analysis of chromosomal mapping and gene collinearity analysis proposed that both dispersed and tandem duplication events contributed to the expansion of PODs in grapevine. Also, the gene duplication analysis suggested that most of the genes (20) were dispersed followed by (15) tandem, (9) segmental or whole-genome duplication, and (3) proximal, respectively. The evolutionary analysis of PODs, such as Ka/Ks ratio of the 15 duplicated gene pairs were less than 1.00, indicated that most of the gene pairs exhibiting purifying selection and 7 pairs underwent positive selection with value greater than 1.00. The Gene Ontology Enrichment (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes Genomics (KEGG) analysis, and cis-elements prediction also revealed the positive functions of PODs in plant growth and developmental activities, and response to stress stimuli. Further, based on the publically available RNA-sequence data, the expression patterns of PODs in tissue-specific response during several developmental stages revealed diverged expression patterns. Subsequently, 30 genes were selected for RT-PCR validation in response to (NaCl, drought, and ABA), which showed their critical role in grapevine. In conclusion, we predict that these results will lead to novel insights regarding genetic improvement of grapevine.
Interference of functional dual-tasks on gait in untrained people with Parkinson’s disease and healthy controls: cross-sectional study
Authors: Valenzuela Constanza San Martín , Dueñas-Moscardó Lirios , López-Pascual Juan , Serra-Añó Pilar , Miguel José Manuel Tomás
Published: October 2019

Background: In Parkinson’s disease (PD) population, performing secondary tasks while walking further deteriorates gait and restrict mobility in functional contexts of daily life. This study (1) analyzed the interference of functional cognitive and motor secondary task on untrained people with PD and (2) compared their walking with healthy subjects. Methods : Forty people with PD (aged 66.72 [7.5] years, Hoehn and Yahr stage I-II-III on-medication) composed the PD group (PDG) and 43 participants (aged 66.60 [8.75] years) formed the group of healthy counterparts (HG). Gait was evaluated through spatiotemporal, kinematic and kinetic outcomes in five conditions: single task (ST) and visual, verbal, auditory and motor dual-task (DT). Results : The performance of both groups was higher in the ST than verbal, auditory and motor DT conditions (p < .05). A similar gait pattern was observed between ST and visual DT during velocity, cadence and vertical forces in PDG and HG. In addition, PDG exhibited a better double support time, ankle range, midstance and braking forces in the visual DT than the verbal and motor DT (p < .05). PDG participants had a significantly lower performance than the HG in all the variables analyzed except for the maximum hip extension in the stance phase (p>0.05). Conclusions : In untrained participants with PD, verbal and motor secondary tasks affect gait significantly, while auditory and visual tasks interfere to a lesser extent. Untrained patients with PD have a poorer gait performance than their healthy counterparts, but in different grades according to the analyzed variables. Trial registration : The data in this paper are part of a single-blind, randomized, controlled trial and correspond to the evaluations performed before a physical rehabilitation program, retrospectively registered with number at clinicaltrial.gov NCT04038866 .
Does long-term recreational gymnastics prevent injurious falls in older women? A prospective 20-year follow-up
Authors: Uusi-Rasi Kirsti , Karinkanta Saija , Kannus Pekka , Tokola Kari , Sievänen Harri
Published: October 2019

Background : Exercise interventions focused on balance and strength training have been shown to be effective for falls prevention. The aim of this 20-year register-based follow-up was to examine whether long-term participation in recreational female gymnastics is associated with a lower risk of medically-attended injurious falls.Methods : Health care register data of 187 women (103 recreational gymnasts and 84 sedentary controls) from the original cohort of 243 women were assessed. The mean age (sd) at baseline was 62.8 (5.4) years and the mean follow-up time was 19.4 (2.7) years (range from 5.6 to 21.0 years). Injurious falls were scrutinized from medical records. An injurious fall was defined as an event in which falling was mentioned as a reason for making contact with the health-care professionals. Negative binomial regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) for injurious falls, and Cox-regression models for calculating hazard ratios (HR) for injured fallers with the control group as reference.Results Recreational gymnasts had about 30% less injurious falls compared to controls, the mean IRR (95% CI) being 0.71 (0.51 to 0.96). Regarding injured fallers, the HR was 0.73 (0.52 to 1.02) favoring the recreational gymnasts. There were no statistically significant between-group differences for fractures.Conclusions: Long-term recreational gymnastics appears to reduce the risk of injurious falls in old age.
The Impact of Frailty On Admission To Home Care Services And Nursing Homes: Eight-Year Follow-Up Of A Community-Dwelling, Elderly, Spanish Cohort
Authors: Cegri Francisco , Orfila Francesc , Abellana Rosa M , Pastor-Valero María
Published: October 2019

Background The aim of this study is to identify the factors that anticipate the future inclusion of community-dwelling individuals aged ≥ 70 years in home care programmes (HC) or nursing homes (NH) and to develop the corresponding prediction models. Methods Study design: Prospective, multicentre, cohort study in 23 primary health care centres located in Catalonia, Spain, with an eight-year follow-up (2005-2013). Participants: the cohort was made up of 616 individuals. Data collection: Baseline interview included a multidimensional assessment carried out by primary health care professionals. Outcome variables were collected during follow-up by consulting electronic health care records, telephone contacts, and the Central Registry of Catalonia for mortality. Statistical analysis: A prognostic index for HC and NH at eight years was estimated for each patient. Death prior to these events was considered as a competing risk event, and Fine–Gray regression models were used. The internal validity of the predictive models was tested for 150 bootstrap re-samples.Results At baseline, mean age was 76.4 years, 55.5% were women, and 22% lived alone. During follow-up, 19.2% entered an HC program, 8.2% a NH, and 15.4% died without presenting an event. Of those who entered a NH, 31.5% had previously been in an HC program. Multivariate competitive risk models for HC and NH showed that the risk of HC entry was associated with older age, dependence on the Instrumental Activities of the Daily Living, and slow gait measured by Timed-up-and-go test. An increased risk of being admitted to a NH was associated with older age, dependence on the Instrumental Activities of the Daily Living, augmented number of prescriptions, and the presence of social risk. Conclusions Prognostic models based on comprehensive geriatric assessments can predict the need for the commencement of HC and NH admission in community-dwelling older adults. Our findings underline the necessity to measure functional capacity, mobility, number of prescriptions, and social aspects of the elderly in the primary healthcare centres. In such a setting they can be offered longitudinal holistic assessments so as to benefit from preventive actions in order to remain independent in the community for as long as possible.
Relationships between cystatin C- and creatinine-based eGFR in Japanese rural community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia
Authors: Kusunoki Hiroshi , Tsuji Shotaro , Kusukawa Tomoyuki , Wada Yosuke , Tamaki Kayoko , Ohta Yoshinori , Nagai Koutatsu , Itoh Masako , Sano Kyoko , Amano Manabu , Maeda Hatsuo , Sugita Hideyuki , Hasegawa Yoko , Kishimoto Hiromitsu , Shimomura Soji , Shinmura Ken
Published: October 2019

Background Sarcopenia is prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Sarcopenia is prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The indices of physical function, such as grip power and gait speed, decreased according to the decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Methods We examined the relationships between cystatin C-based GFR (eGFRcys), and creatinine-based GFR (eGFRcre), and their ratio (eGFRcys/eGFRcre) and low skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) in community-dwelling older adults in Japan. This cross-sectional study included 286 men aged 73.3±6.2 years and 606 women aged 72.9±5.8 years from a rural area in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. eGFRcys and eGFRcre were simultaneously measured, whereas low SMI based on the AWGS criteria was evaluated. Results eGFRcys and the eGFRcys/eGFRcre were significantly correlated with grip power and gait speed. The eGFRcys/eGFRcre was also correlated with SMI. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, when the eGFRcys/eGFRcre was added as a covariate to the basic model, it was significantly associated with low SMI, both in all subjects. Moreover, CKDcys with a low eGFRcys/eGFRcre ratio (<1.0) was associated with a higher risk of low SMI than CKDcys alone. Conclusion In conclusion, CKDcys but not CKDcre is an independent risk factor of low SMI. In patients with CKDcys, lower eGFRcys/eGFRcre may be a practical screening marker of low SMI in community-dwelling older adults.
Mediating effect of perceived stress between social capital and work satisfaction among modern service industry workers in Shanghai
Authors: Wu Ning , Li Zan , Dai Junming , Wang Chao , Gao Junling , Fu Hua
Published: October 2019

Background To explore the relationship among social capital, perceived stress, and work satisfaction to provide a basis for improving work satisfaction among modern service industry workers.Methods A total of 737 employees from two units belonging to modern service industries in Shanghai were investigated through purposive sampling. A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was used to collect data. The relationships among these variables were analyzed using a multiple linear regression model and structural equation model.Results After controlling for demographics, perceived stress was shown to be a negative predictor of work satisfaction, while social capital had a significant positive predictive effect. Structural equation modeling confirmed that perceived stress partially mediated the relation between social capital and work satisfaction.Conclusion Social capital could be an efficient method for improving work satisfaction directly or indirectly by reducing perceived stress.
Investigating Relationship Between Religious Commitment and Moral Sensitivity in Nurses Working in ICU
Authors: khalighi ebrahim , Solaimanizade Laleh , borji milad , tarjoman asma , soltani behrouz , zarei farzad
Published: October 2019

Objectives this study aimed at determining the relationship between religious commitment and moral sensitivity among nurses working in the ICU sections in the west of Iran. The present study was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study carried out on nurses working in ICU wards of two western cities in Iran. The instrument used includes a demographic questionnaire, religious commitment questionnaire and moral sensitivity questionnaire in nurses. First, the researchers referred to the ICU wards of the hospitals in the cities after receiving permission from the relevant authorities by referring to three shifts in the morning, evening and night shifts and holidays. The researchers, while explaining the research goals for the nurses participating in the study, obtained their informed consent to participate in this study. Results : According to the findings, mean (SD) of the overall score of religious commitment was equal to 36.38 (4.58) and mean (SD) of MS score of nurses was 59.21 (12.65). Also, 91 nurses (82.7%) had average MS, 7 (6.4%) had low MS and 12 (10.9%) had high MS. Keywords: Religious Commitment, Moral Sensitivity, Nurse
Informative Supraglottic Airway versus Endotracheal Tube During Interventional Pulmonary Procedures – A Retrospective Study
Authors: Behrens Kyle M , Galgon Richard E
Published: October 2019

Background: As the field of interventional pulmonology (IP) expands, anesthesia services are increasingly being utilized when complex procedures of longer duration are performed on sicker patients with high risk co-morbidities and lung pathology. Yet, evidence on the optimal anesthetic management for these patients remains lacking. Our aim was to characterize the airway management and, secondarily anesthetic maintenance patterns used for IP procedures at our institution. Methods: From 2894 identified encounters, charts of 783 patients undergoing an IP procedure with general anesthesia over a 5-year period, employing an endotracheal tube (ETT) or a supraglottic airway (SGA) for airway maintenance, were identified and reviewed after exclusions. Patients posted for a concurrent thoracic surgical procedure and those already intubated at presentation were excluded. Baseline patient demographics, procedure, proceduralist type, anesthesia maintenance modality, neuromuscular blocking drug (NMBD) use, and airway management characteristics were extracted and analyzed. Results: Inhaled general anesthesia with an ETT for airway maintenance was most commonly employed; however, SGAs were used in one-third of patients with a very low conversion rate (0.4%), and their use was associated with a significant reduction in NMBD use. Conclusions: In this large series of patients receiving general anesthesia for IP procedures, inhaled anesthetic agents and ETTs were favored. However, in appropriately selected patients, SGA use was effective for airway maintenance and allowed for a reduction in NMBD use, which may have implications in this patient population who may have an increased risk for pulmonary complications and warrants further investigation.
Nutrient Source and Tillage Effects on Maize: II. Yield, Soil Carbon, and Carbon Dioxide Emissions
Authors: O'Dell Deb , Eash Neal S. , Zahn James A. , Hicks Bruce B. , Oetting Joel N. , Sauer Thomas J. , Lambert Dayton M. , Logan Joanne , Goddard John J.
Published: October 2019

Core Ideas

Industrial biotechnology waste as a soil amendment approximates farmer practice yields.

Applying waste amendments significantly increased soil organic C compared with farmer practice.

Using waste nutrients for agriculture and soil organic matter improves sustainability.

Reuse of industrial biotechnology by‐products has become an important component of circular bio‐economies whereby nutrient‐rich wastes are returned to agricultural land to improve soil fertility and crop productivity. Heat‐inactivated spent microbial biomass (SMB) from the production of 1,3‐propanediol is an industrial fermentation by‐product with nutrients that could replace or supplement conventional fertilizers. Our objectives were to determine if SMB utilization as a soil amendment in agriculture could generate environmental benefits while meeting farmer yield expectations and assess the impact of SMB application on CO2 emissions. This study examined the replacement of typical farmer fertilizer practices with the application of SMB. In addition to yellow dent maize (Zea mays L. var. indentata) grain yield and aboveground biomass, soil organic carbon (SOC) was measured. The eddy covariance (EC) micrometeorological method was used to measure CO2 flux. Overall maize yields were positively correlated with increasing application rates of SMB. After two SMB applications, SOC increased by 45% on the SMB plot as compared with an increase of 11% on the farmer practice plot. The SMB‐treated plot also emitted more CO2 (794 g CO2 m−2 yr−1) compared with the farmer practice treatment (274 g CO2 m−2 yr−1). Results from this study provide information on the efficacy of waste product nutrient cycling in the soil–plant ecosystem that could improve productivity and sustainability.
Soil Chemical Property Changes in Response to Long‐Term Pineapple Cultivation in Costa Rica
Authors: Sherman Leslie A. , Brye Kristofor R.
Published: October 2019

Core Ideas

Soil organic C was lower under pineapple cultivation than in an adjacent pasture and secondary forest.

Soil organic C did not differ between 7‐ and 20‐yr‐old pineapple fields.

Soil pH and base cations were lower in a 20‐ than in a 7‐yr‐old pineapple field, pasture, and forest.

Anion exchange capacities were larger in soils under pineapple cultivation than in pasture soils.

Pineapple cultivation may require increased liming rates to help maintain long‐term soil quality.

Pineapple [Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.] has been cultivated in Costa Rica for decades on land previously under forest and pasture vegetation. A pineapple plantation in Costa Rica was chosen to investigate the impact of long‐term pineapple cultivation on soil chemical properties. Soil samples were collected at pineapple sites under cultivation for 7 and 20 yr, as well as in an adjacent pasture and secondary forest. Samples were analyzed for extractable nutrients, total C and N, and cation and anion exchange capacities (CEC and AEC, respectively). Soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil N concentrations did not differ (P > 0.05) between the 7‐ and 20‐yr‐old pineapple sites nor between the pasture and forest sites in the top 20 cm. However, the average SOC concentration in the pasture and forest sites was 1.5 times greater (P < 0.05) than that in the pineapple sites. Soil AEC was 3.5 times greater (P < 0.05) in the top 10 cm of both pineapple sites than in the pasture. The 20‐yr‐old pineapple site, which had a soil pH of 4.1, had 2 to 13 times greater (P < 0.05) exchangeable acidity and 2 to 5 times lower base cation concentrations in the top 20 cm than the 7‐yr‐old pineapple, pasture, and forest sites. The greater acidity and lower base cation concentrations in the older pineapple site suggest that agronomic management practices may need to be adjusted to minimize negative changes in soil chemical properties and help maintain future soil productivity.
Research Gaps and Challenges in the Conservation and Use of North American Wild Lettuce Germplasm
Authors: Lebeda Aleš , Křístková Eva , Kitner Miloslav , Majeský Ľuboš , Doležalová Ivana , Khoury Colin K. , Widrlechner Mark P. , Hu Jinguo , Carver Daniel , Achicanoy Harold A. , Sosa Chrystian C.
Published: October 2019

The North American crop wild relatives (CWR) of lettuce (Lactuca L.) represent an underexplored pool of genetic diversity of potential value to breeding programs. The 10 species belong to three different groups: a native clade including at least six allotetraploid species [L. biennis (Moench) Fernald, L. canadensis L., L. floridana (L.) Gaertn., L. graminifolia Michx., L. hirsuta Muhl. ex Nutt., and L. ludoviciana (Nutt.) Riddell], a diploid clade with one species [L. tatarica (L.) C. A. Mey. subsp. pulchella (Pursh) Stebbins], and a clade related to the cultivated taxon (L. sativa L.) with three non‐native species (L. saligna L., L. serriola L., and L. virosa L.). In this review, we examine the role of herbarium and genebank holdings in taxonomic and other foundational studies, as well as for germplasm exploration and use. We compile the state of knowledge on the ranges of lettuce CWR in North America, modeling the potential distributions of the species and assessing their ex situ and (for native species) in situ conservation status. We categorize seven of the species as high priority for further conservation and three as medium priority, with none currently considered low priority or sufficiently conserved. Further, we review morphological, phenological, genetic diversity, and pest and disease information with regard to North American species. We conclude by outlining the critical gaps and describing a way forward for addressing challenges in the conservation and use of North American wild lettuce germplasm.
PERCEPÇÃO DOS GESTORES HOSPITALARES DE SANTA CATARINA SOBRE A UTILIZAÇÃO DE INDICADORES
Authors: Nunes Paula Martins , Erdmann Rolf Hermann
Published: October 2019

O presente estudo visa estudar a avaliação de desempenho hospitalar, tendo como objetivo conhecer a percepção dos gestores hospitalares de Santa Catarina acerca da utilização de indicadores. A pesquisa é caracterizada como de filosofia pragmática, de lógica indutiva, de abordagem qualitativa, descritiva e transversal. A população desta pesquisa é constituída pelos 199 hospitais gerais catarinenses com o objetivo de traçar, de maneira geral, um perfil do gestor e seu estabelecimento, no que tange a utilização de indicadores, prática de benchmarkinge avaliação de desempenho. A coleta de dados foi dividida em duas fases: a) exploratória, por meio de três entrevistas semiestruturadas com gestores hospitalares; e b) descritiva, por meio da aplicação de um questionário também com gestores hospitalares, no qual obtiveram-se 25 respostas. Verificou-se que os gestores hospitalares consideram os indicadores importantes ferramentas de gestão e avaliação de desempenho e que, apesar de ser realizado por metade dos respondentes dessa pesquisa, o processo de benchmarkingentre os estabelecimentos hospitalares de Santa Catarina carece de padronização e estruturação.
64 Bit Block Cipher Cryptography Design Based on Traditional Game Patterns with West Java
Authors: Choirul Nanda
Published: October 2019

Cryptography is a technique of securing data. To improve the security level, cryptography needs to be developed. Block Cipher Cryptography based on Traditional Game Pattern in West Java Bentengan is designed to make a new cryptography. This cryptography is designed by 4 process and 10 rounds. Testing is also done by Avalanche Effect the character changes reach up to 51,563%, so it can be an alternative in securing data.
A constituição da profissão dos enfermeiros em Portugal. A Escola de Enfermagem de Castelo Branco (1948-1988)
Authors: Ferreira António Gomes , Henriques Helder Manuel Guerra
Published: October 2019

Este trabalho pretende interpretar o processo de construção do grupo profissional dos enfermeiros portugueses, entre os anos de 1940 e 1980 do século XX. Partimos da discussão conceptual sobre o papel formativo e credencialista das instituições escolares de enfermagem, em articulação com o Estado, para compreender a construção identitária deste grupo, caraterizando os sujeitos que frequentaram a Escola de Enfermagem de Castelo Branco/Dr. Lopes Dias (Portugal), no arco temporal previsto. A metodologia assumida na construção deste artigo é a análise sócio-histórica, numa perspetiva diacrónica. A História da Educação e a Sociologia das Profissões constituem os principais domínios científicos em que o trabalho assenta.
Acesso e permanência na educação superior – análise da legislação e indicadores educacionais
Authors: Veloso Tereza Christina Mertens Aguiar , Maciel Carina Elisabeth
Published: October 2019

O texto analisa os significados que se têm atribuído ao acesso e aos indicadores para compreensão dos avanços e retrocessos das políticas da educação superior de 2000 a 2012. Adota a pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, e informações estatísticas, indicando condições concretas que determinam e são determinadas pelas políticas nacionais. Conclui que existem avanços, na medida em que as políticas proporcionaram o acesso de diversos grupos sociais na educação superior, e retrocessos, visto que o sistema registra a predominância do ensino privado e, no setor público, a preocupação com a expansão de vagas faz-se acompanhar de poucas ações de permanência estudantil.
Elucidating the Role of Val-Asn 95 and Arg-Gly 52 Mutations on Structure and Stability of Fibroblast Growth Factor Homologous Factor 2
Authors: Kolli Vidyalatha , Paul Subhankar , Guttula Praveen Kumar , Sarkar Nandini
Published: October 2019

Background:

Fibroblast growth Factor Homologous Factors (FHFs) belong to a subclass of Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) family owing to their high sequence and structural similarities with FGFs. However, despite these similarities, there are properties which set them apart from FGFs. FHFs lack the secretion signal sequence unlike other FGF members, except FGF1 and 2. Unlike FGFs, FHFs are not able to bind to FGF Receptors (FGFRs) and instead have been implicated in binding to Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels (VGSCs), neuronal MAP kinase scaffold protein and islet-brain-2 (IB2). The two amino acids Arg-52 and Val95 are conserved in all FHFs and mutation of these residues lead to its inability to bind with VGSC/IB2. However, it is not clear whether the loss of binding is due to destabilization of the protein on mutation or due to involvement of Arg52 and Val95 in conferring functionality to FHFs.

Objective:

In the present study, we have mutated these two conserved residues of FHF2 with its corresponding FGF counterpart amino acids and studied the effects of the mutations on the structure and stability of the protein.

Methods:

Several biophysical methods like isothermal equilibrium denaturation study, ANS fluorescence, intrinsic fluorescence, acrylamide quenching, circular dichroism studies as well as using computational approaches were employed.

Results:

The single mutations were found to affect the overall stability, conformation and functionality of the protein.

Conclusion:

Thus, the studies throw light on the role of specific amino acids in deciding the stability, structure and functionality of proteins and will be useful for development of therapeutically engineered proteins.
Synthesis of Pyrimidine-Annulated Five-Membered Heterocycles: An Overview
Authors: Maji Pradip Kumar
Published: October 2019

This review describes the non-exhaustive scenery of the synthesis of various
biologically interesting pyrimidine annulated five-membered heterocyclic ring systems
that have been appeared in the literature during the last two decades. During this period,
different synthetic routes and various methodologies have been developed for the functionalization
of pyrimidine ring towards the construction of five-membered heterocyclic
rings. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the assorted methodologies that
have been reported about the chemistry of construction of pyrimidines annulated nitrogen,
oxygen and sulphur containing five-membered heterocycles.
Antimyotoxic Activity of Synthetic Peptides Derived from Bothrops atrox Snake Gamma Phospholipase A2 Inhibitor Selected by Virtual Screening
Authors: Sobrinho J.C. , Francisco A.F. , Simões-Silva R. , Kayano A.M. , Ruiz Diaz J.J. Alfonso , Garay A.F. Gomez , Arruda A. , Ferreira A.S. , Santos A.P.A. , Luiz M.B. , Teles C.B.G. , Pereira S.S. , Zanchi F.B. , Calderon L.A. , Zuliani J.P. , Soares A.M.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Several studies have aimed to identify molecules that inhibit the toxic actions
of snake venom phospholipases A2 (PLA2s). Studies carried out with PLA2 inhibitors (PLIs) have been
shown to be efficient in this assignment.

Objective:

This work aimed to analyze the interaction of peptides derived from Bothrops atrox PLIγ
(atPLIγ) with a PLA2 and to evaluate the ability of these peptides to reduce phospholipase and myotoxic
activities.

Methods:

Peptides were subjected to molecular docking with a homologous Lys49 PLA2 from B. atrox
venom modeled by homology. Phospholipase activity neutralization assay was performed with BthTX-II
and different ratios of the peptides. A catalytically active and an inactive PLA2 were purified from the B.
atrox venom and used together in the in vitro myotoxic activity neutralization experiments with the peptides.

Results:

The peptides interacted with amino acids near the PLA2 hydrophobic channel and the loop that
would be bound to calcium in Asp49 PLA2. They were able to reduce phospholipase activity and peptides
DFCHNV and ATHEE reached the highest reduction levels, being these two peptides the best that
also interacted in the in silico experiments. The peptides reduced the myotubes cell damage with a highlight
for the DFCHNV peptide, which reduced by about 65%. It has been suggested that myotoxic activity
reduction is related to the sites occupied in the PLA2 structure, which could corroborate the results
observed in molecular docking.

Conclusion:

This study should contribute to the investigation of the potential of PLIs to inhibit the toxic
effects of PLA2s.
Targeting Protein-Protein Interaction with Covalent Small-Molecule Inhibitors
Authors: Li Bingbing , Rong Deqin , Wang Yuanxiang
Published: October 2019

PPIs are involved in diverse biochemical events and perform their functions through the formation
of protein-protein complexes or PPI networks. The large and flat interacting surfaces of PPIs
make discovery of small-molecule modulators a challenging task. New strategies and more effective
chemical technologies are needed to facilitate the development of PPIs small-molecule inhibitors. Covalent
modification of a nucleophilic residue located proximally to the immediate vicinity of PPIs can
overcome the disadvantages of large interacting surfaces and provides high-affinity inhibitors with increased
duration of action and prolonged target modulation. On the other hand, covalent inhibitors that
target non-conserved protein residues demonstrate improved selectivity over related protein family
members. Herein, we highlight the latest progress of small-molecule covalent PPIs inhibitors and hope
to shed light on future PPIs inhibitor design and development. The relevant challenges and opportunities
are also discussed.
rs3851179G>A in PICALM is Protective Against Alzheimer’s Disease in Five Different Countries Surrounding the Mediterranean
Authors: Masri Inas , Salami Ali , El Shamieh Said , Bissar-Tadmouri Nisrine
Published: October 2019

Background::

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a multifactorial disease affected by various
factors including genetics. Although APOE is considered the major and strongest genetic risk factor,
other genetic factors such as rs3851179G>A in PICALM have been reported despite that not
being fully clear.

Objective:

We first aimed to investigate the correlation between rs3851179G>A in PICALM and
AD in Lebanese individuals affected with AD. Then, we further investigated its overall effect in
five different populations from the Mediterranean region (Turkey, Italy, Spain, France and ours)
through performing a meta-analysis.

Method:

We investigated the relationship between the rs3851179G>A and AD in 109 Lebanese
individuals (54% affected with AD) using allele-specific PCR. Sanger Sequencing was also used to
verify genotyping.

Results:

Using a multiple logistic regression model adjusted for many covariates, only
rs3851179G>A showed a negative correlation with AD (OR=0.28, P=0.04 and OR=0.07, P=0.01
for GA and AA, respectively). To go further, a meta-analysis was conducted using studies on 3,619
participants from five different populations that belong to countries surrounding the Mediterranean
(Turkey, Italy, Spain, France and ours). The sensitivity test showed no genetic heterogeneity for
rs3851179G>A in the pooled analysis (P=0.44 and I2=0%) and in each individual study (P>0.05).
Using an additive model, our results showed a significant association between rs3851179G>A and
AD (OR=0.91, P=0.003). The funnel plot was a symmetrical inverted funnel and no significant
publication bias was found for our model (P=0.46).

Conclusion:

rs3851179A allele in PICALM tends to have a protective factor against AD in the Mediterranean region.
Efficient Solar Integrated Doubly Fed Induction Generator for Wind Energy Harnessing
Authors: Kumar Arjun , Shivashankar  , Ram Bhagwan S.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Doubly-Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) is a dual input conventional asynchronous
device connected across both stator and rotor, which also functions as an electrical transducer
consuming up-to 30 % of the generated power during the rotor injection. This is the major
concern with respect to the DFIG in terms of effective power generation.

Methods:

The proposed work provides the solution for this undesirable power loss by connecting
the DFIG with an array of solar Photovoltaic (PV) panel through a conventional direct current bus
using a boost converter. This research setup can work on the basis of indirect vector control algorithms
applied at the rotor and grid converter level in order to maintain the constant DC voltage under
arbitrary conditions.

Results:

Even the variations in voltage and frequency will be controlled with this novel approach. A
simulation model of the 300KW solar PV array and a 2MW DFIG system is developed using
MATLAB/Simulink environment.

Conclusion:

Solar and wind energy sources incorporate Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
through their control algorithms resulting in the add on 30-80 KW of solar power for rotor injection
compared to the existing system in order to reduce the power rating of the converters and power
consumption from the grid.
Como o novo guideline americano para o diagnóstico de hipertensão afetará a rotina médica?/ How the new American guideline for diagnosis of hypertension will affect the physician routine?
Authors: Maciel de Oliveira Camila , Dos Santos Eli Basílio Alves , Bermude Beatriz Elizabeth Bagatin Veleda , Ferreira Lucille Ribeiro , Tizzot Edison Almeida , Mourao Junior Carlos Alberto
Published: October 2019

Na tentativa de alterar as taxas de morbimortalidade, em novembro de 2017, foi publicado o novo guidelinepela American Heart Association sugerindo que o limite pressórico para o diagnóstico de hipertensão fosse de 130 mmHg para a pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) (ao invés de 140 mmHg) e 80 mmHg para a pressão arterial diastólica (PAD) (ao invés de 90 mmHg) Trying to change the mobimortaly rates,  in November 2017, the new guideline published by American Heart Association suggested that the limit for diagnosis of hypertension would be 130mmHg for systolic blood pressure (instead 140mmHg) and 80mmHg for diastolic blood pressure (instead 90mmHg).
Aspectos epidemiológicos e anatomopatológicos do câncer pulmonar diagnosticado em laboratório de um hospital do Sul de Minas Gerais/ Epidemiological and anatomopathological aspects of lung cancer diagnosed in a laboratory in a hospital in the South of Minas Gerais
Authors: De Souza Cândido Irulegui Roseane , Teodoro Paula Pereira , Koga Tatiane Mitsue
Published: October 2019

Introdução: O câncer de pulmão é o terceiro mais comum no Brasil e no mundo, depois do câncer de mama e de próstata. Destacam-se, como fatores de risco, tabagismo, sexo, idade, exposição a determinados agentes químicos, fatores genéticos, doenças pulmonares prévias e hábitos alimentares. O objetivo desse estudo é identificar os aspectos epidemiológicos e anatomopatológicos do câncer pulmonar. Métodos: Foram avaliados 180 laudos e prontuários dos pacientes submetidos a biópsia pulmonar no período de janeiro de 2009 a dezembro de 2014. Os dados foram descritos sob a forma de frequência relativa e absoluta. Resultados: Dos 180 laudos e prontuários analisados, 70 (40%) foram positivos para malignidade. Destes os dois tipos histológicos mais comuns foram adenocarcinoma e carcinoma epidermoide. O sexo masculino (54%) foi discretamente mais acometido que o feminino (46%). A faixa etária maior que 65 anos foi a de maior incidência. Não foi possível identificar dados completos acerca do consumo de tabagismo. Conclusão: O câncer pulmonar, nesse estudo, foi mais incidente no sexo masculino, o tipo histológico mais encontrado foi o adenocarcinoma e faixa etária mais acometida foi, principalmente, a mais idosa.Introduction: Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in Brazil and in the world, after breast and prostate cancer. Risk factors include smoking, sex, age, exposure to chemical agents, genetic factors, previous pulmonary diseases and eating habits. The aim of this study is to identify the epidemiological and anatomopathological aspects of lung cancer. Methods: Data were collected from 180 anatomopathological reports and medical records from patients submitted to lung biopsies between January 2009 and December 2014. Data were collected and described as relative and absolute frequency. Results: Among the 180 reports and medical records analyzed, 70 (40%) were positive for malignacy. The two most common histological types were adenocarcinoma and epidermoid carcinoma. Men (54%) were slightly more affected than women (46%). The age group over 65 years old was the most affected. It was not possible to obtain complete data above smoking habits. Conclusion: Lung cancer in this study was more frequent in males, the most common histological type was adenocarcinoma, and the age group affected was the oldest.
Eficácia da hemostasia após cateterismo arterial utilizando torniquete de compressão de artéria radial/ Efficacy of hemostasis after arterial catheterization using Radial Artery Compression Tourniquet
Authors: Souto Jaqueline Pereira , Evangelista Christian Pietro , Hueb Alexandre Ciappina , Cortez Paulo José Oliveira
Published: October 2019

Introdução: Com o aumento da expectativa de vida há também um consequente aumento das doenças cardiovasculares e de intervenções coronárias percutâneas. Objetivo: Avaliar obtenção de hemostasia após cateterizações arteriais percutâneas, por via radial, utilizando torniquete de compressão de artéria radial (TCAR). Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo observacional, transversal quantitativo, que avaliou 80 prontuários de pacientes submetidos consecutivamente a operações arteriais percutâneas (cateterismo cardíaco com ou sem necessidade de angioplastia) por acesso radial, que utilizaram TCAR da marca COMED®, como técnica para obtenção da hemostasia, baseando-se o protocolo institucional para manuseio e retirada do dispositivo. Resultados: Sessenta e cinco por cento dos pacientes eram do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 63 anos, peso médio de 76,5 Kg. Cinco mil unidades internacionais de heparina não fracionada foram administradas em todos os procedimentos, com doses adicionais em pacientes que foram submetidos à angioplastia. A maioria (88,7%) dos dispositivos foram insuflados com 15 ml de ar após o procedimento e a hemostasia foi obtida em 78,7% dos casos. Conclusão: A obtenção de hemostasia com compressão da artéria pelo TCAR COMED®, e com a técnica realizada seguindo o protocolo da instituição, mostrou-se efetiva, reduzindo o tempo de compressão sugerido pelo fabricante.Introduction: With the increase in life expectancy, there is also a consequent increase in cardiovascular diseases and percutaneous coronary interventions. Objective: To evaluate hemostasis after radial percutaneous arterial catheterization using the radial artery compression tourniquet (RACT). Methods: An observational, cross-sectional quantitative study was carried out to evaluate 80 medical records of patients consecutively submitted to percutaneous arterial surgeries (cardiac catheterization with or without angioplasty) by radial access using COMED® RACT as the technique to obtain hemostasis, based on the institutional protocol for device handling and removal. Results: Sixty-five percent of the patients were male, with a mean age of 63 years, mean weight of 76.5 kg. Five thousand international units of unfractionated heparin were administered in all procedures, with additional doses in patients who underwent angioplasty. Most (88.7%) devices were inflated with 15 ml of air after the procedure and hemostasis was obtained in 78.7% of cases. Conclusion: Obtaining hemostasis with compression of the artery by COMED® RACT, and with the technique performed following the protocol of the institution, was effective, reducing the time for compression suggested by the manufacturer.
Reaching People With Disabilities in Underserved Areas Through Digital Interventions: Systematic Review
Authors: Zhou Leming , Parmanto Bambang
Published: October 2019

Background

People with disabilities need rehabilitation interventions to improve their physical functioning, mental status, and quality of life. Many rehabilitation interventions can be delivered electronically ("digitally") via telehealth systems. For people with disabilities in underserved areas, electronically delivered rehabilitation interventions may be the only feasible service available for them.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the current status of digital interventions for people with disabilities in remote and underserved areas.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted on this topic. Keyword searches in multiple databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and Inspec) were performed to collect articles published in this field. The obtained articles were selected based on our selection criteria. Of the 198 identified articles, 16 duplicates were removed. After a review of the titles and abstracts of the remaining articles, 165 were determined to be irrelevant to this study and were therefore removed. The full texts of the remaining 17 articles were reviewed, and 6 of these articles were removed as being irrelevant to this study. The 11 articles remaining were discussed and summarized by 2 reviewers.

Results

These 11 studies cover a few types of disabilities, such as developmental disabilities and mobility impairments as well as several types of disability-causing disorders such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and facio-scapulo-humeral muscular dystrophy. Most of these studies were small-scale case studies and relatively larger-scale cohort studies; the project evaluation methods were mainly pre-post comparison, questionnaires, and interviews. A few studies also performed objective assessment of functional improvement. The intervention technology was mainly videoconferencing. Moreover, 10 of these studies were for people with disabilities in rural areas and 1 was for people in urban communities.

Conclusions

A small number of small-scale studies have been conducted on digital interventions for people with disabilities in underserved areas. Although the results reported in these studies were mostly positive, they are not sufficient to prove the effectiveness of telehealth-based digital intervention in improving the situation among people with disabilities because of the small sample sizes and lack of randomized controlled trials.
Improving the Course of Depressive Symptoms After Inpatient Psychotherapy Using Adjunct Web-Based Self-Help: Follow-Up Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zwerenz Rüdiger , Baumgarten Carlotta , Becker Jan , Tibubos Ana , Siepmann Martin , Knickenberg Rudolf J , Beutel Manfred E
Published: October 2019

Background

We recently showed in a randomized controlled trial that Web-based self-help as an adjunct improved the effectiveness of multimodal inpatient psychotherapy for depression.

Objective

The aims of this study were (1) to determine whether a Web-based self-help adjunctive to multimodal inpatient psychotherapeutic treatment could also improve the course of depressive symptoms and (2) to identify predictors of residual depressive symptoms at follow-up.

Methods

Overall, 229 patients were randomized either to the Web-based self-help intervention group (Deprexis) or an active control group (Web-based information about depression and depressive symptoms) in addition to multimodal inpatient psychotherapy. Participants in both groups were able to access their respective Web-based programs for 12 weeks, which meant that they typically had access after discharge from the inpatient unit (mean hospitalization duration: 40 days, T1). Follow-up was performed 6 months after study intake (T3).

Results

At follow-up, participants of the Web-based self-help group had considerably lower symptom load regarding depressive symptoms (d=0.58) and anxiety (d=0.46) as well as a better quality of life (d=0.43) and self-esteem (d=0.31) than participants of the control group. Nearly 3 times as many participants of the intervention group compared with the control group achieved remission in accordance with less deterioration. The number needed to treat based on the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) improved over time (T1: 7.84, T2: 7.09, and T3: 5.12). Significant outcome predictors were BDI at discharge and treatment group.

Conclusions

Web-based self-help as an add-on to multimodal inpatient psychotherapy improved the short-term course of depressive symptoms beyond termination. Residual symptoms at discharge from inpatient treatment and utilization of the Web-based self-help were the major predictors of depressive symptoms at follow-up. Challenges and barriers (eg, costs, therapists’ concerns, or technical barriers) of adding Web-based interventions to inpatient treatment have to be addressed.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02196896; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02196896.