bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pan-Cancer Analysis Reveals that the SARS-CoV-2 Receptor ACE2 is a Protective Factor for Cancer Progression
Authors: Zhang Zhilan , Li Lin , Li Mengyuan , Wang Xiaosheng
Published: July 2020

Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected more than 13 million people and has caused more than 570,000 deaths worldwide as of July 13, 2020. The SARS-CoV-2 human cell receptor ACE2 has recently received extensive attention for its role in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Many studies have also explored the association between ACE2 and cancer. However, a systemic investigation into associations between ACE2 and oncogenic pathways, tumor progression, and clinical outcomes in pan-cancer remains lacking. Methods: Using cancer genomics datasets from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) program, we performed computational analyses of associations between ACE2 expression and antitumor immunity, immunotherapy response, oncogenic pathways, tumor progression phenotypes, and clinical outcomes in 12 cancer cohorts. We also identified co-expression networks of ACE2 in cancer.Results: ACE2 upregulation was associated with increased antitumor immune signatures and PD-L1 expression, and favorable anti-PD-1/PD-L1/CTLA-4 immunotherapy response. ACE2 expression levels inversely correlated with the activity of cell cycle, mismatch repair, TGF-β, Wnt, VEGF, and Notch signaling pathways. Moreover, ACE2 expression levels had significant inverse correlations with tumor proliferation, stemness, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). ACE2 upregulation was associated with favorable survival in pan-cancer and in multiple individual cancer types. Conclusions: ACE2 upregulation was associated with increased antitumor immunity and immunotherapy response, reduced tumor malignancy, and favorable survival in cancer, suggesting that ACE2 is a protective factor for cancer progression. Our data may provide potential clinical implications for treating cancer patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Interactive Effect of Hypertension and Obesity on Disability among Older People: A Observational Study
Authors: Su Peng , Yang Surong , Dong Zixi , Liang Weigen , Zhang Yunwei , Mei Jinjian , Gao Yuan , Li Qianting , Ding Hansheng , Wen Qiwu
Published: July 2020

Background

Both hypertension and obesity are strongly associated with disability, but these associations are in debate among older people. In this context, our study aimed to examine the interactive effect of hypertension and obesity with disability, especially including the control of blood pressure.
Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2018 in Shanghai, 8648 community-dwelling individuals with a mean age of 70.39 years. Obesity was measured using the body mass index (BMI) in World Health Organization (WHO) Asia criteria. Hypertension control was defined as treatment with antihypertensive medication and a measured blood pressure of less than 140/90 mm Hg. Disability was measured using the self-reported physical self-maintenance scale (PSMS) and the instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) scale developed by Lawton and Brody. Logistic regression with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was used to explore the interactive effect of hypertension and obesity on disability.
Results

A total of 33.60% of participants reported hypertension control, 6.54% for poor hypertension control, 9.27% for ADL disability, and 32.47% for IADL disability. After adjusting social demographics and chronic conditions, versus without hypertension: in independent analyses, poor hypertension control was a risk factor (OR for ADL disability = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.10–1.96; OR for IADL disability = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.27–1.91); in interactive analyses, poor hypertension control was a risk factor in obese subset (OR for ADL disability = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.09–2.74; OR for IADL disability = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.31–2.47), but a protective factor in underweight subset (OR for ADL disability = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.18–0.62; OR for IADL disability = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.20–0.51).
Conclusions

Poor hypertension control, independent of its consequences, is a risk factor for disability among older people. In addition, hypertension and BMI status have interactive effect on disability among older people. Poor hypertension control is a risk factor among obese individuals, but a protective factor among underweight individuals.
Enlargement Of Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Using An Autologous Pericardial Patch For The Anterior Mitral Valve Leaflet And Septal Myectomy Through Trans-mitral Approach For The Treatment Of Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhang Hongqiang , Zhu Kai , Wang Fanshun , Sun Xiaoning , Yang Shouguo , Wang Chunsheng
Published: July 2020

Background: Modified Morrow procedure is the gold standard of surgical intervention for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). However, there are certain cases without clear exposure through the traditional trans-aortic approach; we therefore described a trans-mitral approach by enlarging left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) using an autologous pericardial patch for the anterior mitral valve leaflet and septal myectomy. We aimed to retrospectively analyze this series of patients to reveal its safety and efficiency.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 16 HOCM patients underwent enlargement of LVOT using an autologous pericardial patch for the anterior mitral valve leaflet and septal myectomy through trans-mitral approach in our center from January, 2016 to December, 2019. Baseline characteristics, operative details and postoperative data were extracted from our hospital medical records. Results: Of the 16 patients, there was no operative mortality. No new onset atrial fibrillation, no new onset stroke with symptoms, no permanent pacemaker implantation and no ventricular septal defects formation were observed during operation and three months follow-up. The peak pressure gradient of LVOT decreased from 97.56±23.81 mmHg to 7.56±2.13 mmHg (P < 0.01) after operation and 10.19±2.93 mmHg (P < 0.01) three months after operation. The average aortic cross-clamp time was 54.56±6.10 mins (range, 48 to 69 minutes). The systolic anterior motion (SAM) sign disappeared uneventfully in all cases. No patients had more than moderate MR.Conclusions: Enlargement of LVOT using an autologous pericardial patch for the anterior mitral valve leaflet and septal myectomy through trans-mitral approach is feasible and reliable for the treatment of certain types of HOCM cases.Trial registration: Not applicable.
Long non-coding RNA PVT1 promotes proliferation and migration of pulmonary smooth muscle cells in pulmonary arterial hypertension through miR-140-5p/Fxr1 axis
Authors: Zhao Botao , Shen Yuchao , Wu Qinghua , Yao Li , Hu Yamin
Published: July 2020

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a devastating disease and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential for PAH progression. Also, lncRNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) plays important roles in cell proliferation and migration, however, the effect of PVT1 on pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs) in PAH remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the role and underlying mechanisms of PVT1 in HPASMCs.Methods: The results demonstrated that the expression of PVT1 was upregulated in pulmonary arterial tissues and HPASMCs and was positively correlated with pulmonary arterial pressure.Results: Knockdown and overexpression of PVT1 suppressed and promoted HPASMCs proliferation and migration, respectively. Mechanical and functional studies revealed that PVT1 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA of miR-140-5p and their expressions were negatively correlated.Conclusions: Knockdown of PVT1 did not suppress proliferation and migration in HPASMCs transfected with the miR-140-5p inhibitor. Moreover, fragile X-related proteins 1 (Fxr1) was identified as the target gene of miR-140-5p. Downregulation of PVT1 decreased the level of Fxr1 while this inhibitory effect was reversed by the miR-140-5p inhibitor. In conclusion, the upregulation of PVT1 promoted proliferation and migration in HPASMCs though the miR-140-5p/Fxr1 signaling pathway, indicating PVT1 may serve as a promising diagnostic biomarker for PAH.
Factors Influencing Physicians' Departure from General Practitioners Field in Developing Countries: A Case Study in Iran
Authors: Shokri Azad , Mirbahaeddin Elmira , Akbari-Sari Ali , Harirchi Iraj , Farzianpour Fereshteh , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Shokri Somaieh , Moghadam Sima Mirzaei , Bayat Mahboubeh
Published: July 2020

Background: Migration, intersectoral flows, early retirement, illness and premature death of General Practitioners (GPs), maintaining adequate and effective workforce has become a major challenge in many countries. The present study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the departure of physicians from the GPs field in developing countries.Methods: We used qualitative research and performed as a conventional content analysis through in-depth interview. Sampling method was purposeful sampling which was performed with variation in individuals include policy makers and different situation in GPs (including immigration, unemployment, specialty student, employment in other non-medical jobs, etc.). Lincoln and Guba evaluation method were used to determine the validity and reliability of the study. The conceptual model was used to illustrate the situation and deeper understanding of the problemResults: The results of the interviews showed, eight themes, 22 sub-themes were identified as factors influencing tendency GPs to other states. Major themes included income, referral system, specialization, human resource policy-making, education related issues, working environment conditions, quality of life and community attitude. The causal relationships were shown inside and outside each theme in the conceptual model.Conclusion: According to the results, there are various factors that lead people out of the field of GP and their tendency to different states, while lack of awareness of policy makers and officials can make decisions for years to come. A wide range of interventions is recommended to reduce these stimuli include pre-selection reforms such as "information about physicians' working conditions", during academic training such as "changing hospital education to clinic education and rural community experience" and after entering areas of the medical profession such as "defining the career path for physicians 'distribution and physicians' career development" and long-term reforms include fundamental reforms to promote family medicine referral and change community attitudes.
RAPD and ERIC-PCR coupled with HRM for species identification of non-dysenteriae Shigella species isolated from clinical specimens; As a potential of alternative method
Authors: Pakbin Babak , Basti Afshin Akhondzadeh , Khanjari Ali , Azimi Leila , Karimi Abdollah
Published: July 2020

Background: Species identification of Shigella isolates are so prominent for epidemiological studies and implementing infection prevention strategies. We developed and evaluated RAPD and ERIC-PCR assays coupled with HRM for differentiation of non-dysenteriae Shigella species as potential alternative methods. isolation of eighteen Shigella strains from faecal specimens collected from children under 2 years old with diarrhea symptom (n=143), species of the isolates were identified by slide agglutination assay as the golden standard method. Species of isolates were identified using developed RAPD-PCR-HRM and ERIC-PCR-HRM assays and differentiation of data sets obtained from difference plots of HRM was implemented by PCA as a dimension reduction method then sensitivity and specificity of the methods were evaluated using ROC curve. Results: Consequently, we found that RAPD-PCR-HRM with sensitivity and specificity of 100 and 85% respectively is significantly more suitable for identification of non-dysenteriae Shigella species. However, sensitivity and specificity of ERIC-PCR-HRM were evaluated 33 and 46% respectively.Conclusion: Regardless of inherent poor reproducibility of DNA fingerprinting based methods, RAPD-PCR-HRM assay can be considered as a potential of alternative method for species identification. Also, HRM technique used in this study is more rapid, inexpensive, and sensitive than gel electrophoresis for characterization of PCR amplicons.
Prevalence of Asymptomatic Hiatal Hernia in Obese Patient in Routine Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Screening and Correlation with BMI
Authors: Assakran Bandar Saad , Alrakbi Khaled Mohammed , Alharbi Meshari Abdulrahman , Almatroudi Moath Abdullah , Alshowaiman Asim Nizar , Alromaih Abdullah Homood , Alharbi Basil Abdulrahman , Alaqil Naif Suliman , Alsoghayer Ali Saleh
Published: July 2020

Background In obese patients, hiatus hernia (HH) can be asymptomatic or it may present with one or few symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, or vomiting. Routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is the most frequent method to determine the presence of any abnormalities including hiatus hernia.Aim The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of asymptomatic hiatal hernia in obese patients in routine upper GI endoscopy screening and correlation with BMI.Materials and Methods This was an observational retrospective cohort study conducted at King Fahad Specialist hospital-Buraydah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia. The data were extracted from the medical records and electronic charts of all obese patients who had upper gastrointestinal endoscopy screening between January 2017 – December 2019. Data were tabulated in MS Excel and were analyzed using SPSS version 21.Results Among the 690 obese patients, the prevalence of HH was 103 yielding an overall percentage of 14.3%. Chi-square test revealed that the use of Proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) (X2=6.876; p=0.009) and abdominal pain (X2=3.885; p=0.049), shortness of breath (X2=8.057; p=0.005), vomiting (X2=4.302; p=0.038), nausea (X2=4.090; p=0.043) and other HH symptoms (X2=3.897; p=0.048) significantly influenced HH but the BMI level did not (X2=2.126; p=0.345). In multivariate regression model, the use of PPI medication (AOR=0.237; CI=0.074 – 0.760; p=0.023) significantly decreased the risk of HH while vomiting (AOR=1.722; CI=1.025 – 2.890; p=0.040) and nausea (AOR=1.698; CI=1.012 – 2.849; p=0.045) significantly increased the risk of HH.Conclusion Asymptomatic HH among obese patients is not widely prevalent in our region. The use of PPI medications was a protective factor of HH while symptoms such as vomiting and nausea increased the risk of HH. However, there was no evidence found linking BMI to HH as shown in this study.
A pragmatic randomized controlled trial reports the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine on coronavirus disease 2019 viral kinetics
Authors: Lyngbakken Magnus Nakrem , Berdal Jan-Erik , Eskesen Arne , Kvale Dag , Olsen Inge Christoffer , Rueegg Corina Silvia , Rangberg Anbjørg , Jonassen Christine Monceyron , Omland Torbjørn , Røsjø Helge , Dalgard Olav
Published: July 2020

We randomized 53 patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to hydroxychloroquine therapy (at a dose of 400 mg twice daily for seven days) in addition to standard care or standard care alone (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier, NCT04316377). All severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive patients 18 years of age or older were eligible for study inclusion if they had moderately severe COVID-19 at admission. Treatment with hydroxychloroquine did not result in a significantly greater rate of decline of SARS-CoV-2 oropharyngeal viral load compared to standard care alone during the first five days. Our results suggest no important antiviral effect of hydroxychloroquine in humans infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Surveillance on schistosomiasis in five provinces of the People's Republic of China in post-elimination era
Authors: Guo Jing-yi , Xu Jing , Zhang Lijuan , Shan Lv , Cao Chun-li , Li Shi-zhu , Zhou Xiao-nong
Published: July 2020

Background: The People’s Republic of China (P. R. China) had made significant progress on schistosomiasis control. Among the 12 provinces (municipality, autonomous region with schistosomiasis endemic) in P.R. China, Guangdong, Shanghai, Fujian, Guangxi and Zhejiang provinces (following called as five provinces) had successively eliminated schistosomiasis during 1985-1995. However, given the increasing mobilization of the population and goods, wetland protection, climate changes etc., consolidation of the schistosomiasis elimination in these five provinces remain challenges. In the current study, we sought to understand the epidemic situation in these post-elimination areas and their surveillance capabilities on schistosomiasis. Methods: (Ⅰ) Through the national schistosomiasis reporting system, annual data reflecting the interventions and surveillance on human beings, cattle and snails based on county level from 2005 to 2016 were collected and analyzed to understand the epidemic status of schistosomiasis in five provinces. (Ⅱ) A standardized score sheet was designed to assess the surveillance capacity for schistosomiasis of selected disease control agencies in five provinces and ten counties. Assessment on surveillance capacity consisted of two parts: the first part focused on the capacity of testing skills including schistosomiasis diagnostic skills, identification of snails’ living and infection status; the second part was to assess the knowledge level about schistosomiasis and its control.Results: The comprehensive assessments showed that no local cases in humans and cattle or infected snail were found in these five provinces from 2005, and the surveillance abilities on schistosomiasis of the prevention and control institutions in five provinces were appropriate. However, from 2005 to 2016, a total of 221 imported cases were detected in Zhejiang, Shanghai and Fujian provinces, and 11.98 hm2 of new snail habitats were found in Zhejiang, Shanghai and Guangxi provinces. In addition, snail infestation was reoccurred in 247.55 hm2 of former snail habitats since 2011.Conclusions: Elimination of schistosomiasis was consolidated successfully in five provinces of P.R. China due to effective and strong post-elimination surveillance. Comprehensive consolidation strategies should be focused on the elimination of residual snails and the prevention of imported infection sources among the five provinces to consolidate the achievements of schistosomiasis control.
Health-benefitting Biologically Active Substances in Edible Apricot Flowers
Authors: Göttingerová Martina , Kumšta Michal , Nečas Tomáš
Published: July 2020

The nutritive quality of food and the aesthetic aspect contribute to the appearance of consumed food. In this study, apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) flowers were used to determine vitamin C, total phenolic content, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, carotenoids, anthocyanins, and amygdalin. Vitamin C content fluctuated between 24.97 and 47.35 mg·100 g–1 fresh weight (FW). The results show that all apricot flowers are a good source of phenolic compounds [404.08–768.45 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g FW] and flavonoids [198.76–538.11 mg catechin equivalent (CE)/100 g FW], and have good antioxidant capacity [414.66–1026.18 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/100 g FW]. A high value of anthocyanins was measured in ‘Vestar’ (28.41 mg·100 g–1 FW) and also in ‘Blenheim’ (13.40 mg·100 g–1 FW). On the contrary, a low value was found in ‘Scout’ (1.60 mg·100 g–1 FW). The highest value of carotenoids was measured in ‘Blenheim’ (6.41 mg·100 g–1 FW), and the lowest in ‘Chuang Zhi Hong’ (1.36 mg·100 g–1 FW). Amygdalin content fluctuated between 110.81 and 419.78 mg·100 g–1 FW. Newly acquired information about the composition and nutritional value of edible flowers give reasons for their consumption.
Prenatal diagnosis of a distal aortopulmonary window with holosystolic
pulmonary regurgitation
Authors: N.M. Normuradova
Published: July 2020

The case of pulmonary artery regurgitation and through the systole and early ventricular diastole
in the pulmonary valve, due to the distal aorto-pulmonary window on the fetus of 21+4 weeks of gestation
is presented. Cardiomegaly due to the right heart and pronounced tricuspid regurgitation were also noted.
Apert syndrome in a first trimester fetus with diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: I.V. Novikova, N.A. Venchikova, A.A. Gusina et all
Published: July 2020

Apert syndrome (AS) is one of the most commonly described craniosynostosis syndromes. Prenatal
diagnosis of left diaphragmatic hernia on malformed fetus with AS at 11+5 week’s of gestation is presented. This
is the fourth report of AS in association with diaphragmatic hernia. The diagnosis of AS was confirmed by a
molecular analysis of FGFR2, which showed a heterozygous Ser252Trp mutation.
An integer linear programming model to optimize the hub and spoke-based water desalinated transmission system
Authors: Al Gahtani Osama Saad , Mrad Mehdi
Published: July 2020

Desalinated water is becoming a significant resource in many countries. With limited water supply, several high-demand sites located far from the desalination plant and an efficient and cost-effective transmission and storage network have become critical. In many areas, desalinated water is not delivered efficiently through a pipeline and storage tank system capable of providing safe and cost-effective coverage to a wide range of demand sites. In addition, due to the limitation of transmission and storage distribution, many desalination plants are unable to achieve full production capacity. Many high-demand sites are at risk of disruption or water contamination due to single-source pipelines or desalination plants. In this study, the conceptual framework for an economically viable transmission and storage system helps decision-makers to define the requirements for the proper design of the system. The definition is introduced here to describe strategic tanks for efficient and economical supply allocation. The key aspects of setting up effective transmission and storage systems were outlined in the framework presented. To develop an efficient and cost-effective transmission and storage system, an integer linear program was constructed to solve the hub and spoke issue. A hypothetical example is presented and discussed to illustrate the advantages of the proposed model.
Multivariate drought risk analysis based on copula functions: a case study
Authors: Seyedabadi Mohammadreza , Kavianpour Mohammadreza , Moazami Saber
Published: July 2020

Drought is asserted as a natural disaster that encompasses vast territories for a long time and affects human life. Indicators are powerful tools for understanding this phenomenon. However, in order to get more information about the drought, multivariate indices were introduced for simultaneous evaluation of multiple variables. In this study, a combined drought index (CDI) based on three drought indices, the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Streamflow Drought Index (SDI), and Standardized Water-level Index (SWI), is defined. Then, the Entropy method is used to determine the weight of each indicator. Among the calculated weights, SDI and SPI had the highest and lowest weight, respectively. The CDI is utilized to identify drought characteristics, such as duration and severity. In addition, the joint distribution function of drought characteristics is formed by copula functions and consequently the probability of different droughts is calculated. For the study area, data and information from eight regions located in Golestan province in the northern part of Iran are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed index. Four categories of drought were defined and their return period calculated. The shortest return period of severe drought was observed in the east and then in the west. In the south and center, the return period of severe drought was longer. Over the course of 30 years, all parts of the province experienced all drought categories.
Krajowe i ogólnoświatowe wymagania środowiskowe w aspekcie jakości paliw
Authors: Kamiński Arkadiusz
Published: July 2020

In the publication entitled „Modifications in European and Polish law implying changes in the production process, chemical composition and distribution of automotive fuels” the necessity and accuracy of implementing described changes in terms of the natural environment and human health were highlighted. In the current publication, which is the continuation of the previous one, the attention was paid to the environmental requirements implementation in national circumstances with regards to lead elimination, benzene content limitation, oxygen compounds limitation, sulfur limitations as well as with all issues concerning FAME.
Sport i rekreacja przy wybranych akwenach objętych zakwitami alg i sinic na przykładzie wybranych zbiorników Polski
Authors: Pacelt Justyna , Szeligiewicz Wojciech
Published: July 2020

The water environment constitutes a basic resource for not only human life but also recreational activity during the holiday season. In reservoirs with high trophic level caused mainly by water contamination, algal blooms occur. This phenomenon is especially intensive in spring and than in summer and affects the use of water reservoirs and coastal areas by people. One type, toxic blooms, is very dangerous for human health. If people who use the reservoir for recreational and professional purposes are unaware of the occurrence of this type of bloom, it may cause serious health problems and financial losses. To avoid this situation, cooperation among institutions which monitor water conditions on each reservoir must be established.
High Sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hsCRP) and its Implications in Cardiovascular Outcomes
Authors: Denegri Andrea , Boriani Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

Atherosclerosis and its fearsome complications represent the first cause of morbidity and mortality
worldwide. Over the last two decades, several pieces of evidence have been accumulated, suggesting a central
role of inflammation in atheroma development. High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is a well-established
marker of cardiovascular (CV) disease; high levels of hsCRP have been associated with adverse CV outcome
after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and, despite some controversy, an active role for hsCRP in initiation and
development of the atherosclerotic plaque has been also proposed. Randomized clinical trials focusing on hsCRP
have been crucial in elucidating the anti-inflammatory effects of statin therapy. Thus, hsCRP has been progressively
considered a real CV risk factor likewise to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), expanding the
concept of residual CV inflammatory risk. Subsequent research has been designed to investigate potential new
targets of atherothrombotic protection. Despite the fact that the clinical usefulness of hsCRP is widely recognized,
hsCRP may not represent the ideal target of specific anti-inflammatory therapies. Clinical investigations, therefore,
have also focused on other inflammatory mediators, restricting hsCRP to an indicator rather than a therapeutic
target. The aim of the present review is to provide an illustrative overview of the current knowledge of atherosclerosis
and inflammation, highlighting the most representative clinical studies of lipid-lowering and antiinflammatory
therapies focused on hsCRP in CV diseases.
An Insight into Unani Hypoglycemic Drugs and Their Mechanism of Action
Authors: Fazil Mohammad , Nikhat Sadia , Ali Imran
Published: July 2020

Background:

Diabetes mellitus type-II is a major health problem characterized by hypoinsulinemia and insulin resistance, leading to hyperglycemia and its complications. In Unani medicine, it is known as ziyābetus. Several drugs are prescribed in Unani medicine as single and compound formulations for this disease. Most of these drugs have been studied on scientific parameters and shown significant activity in reducing the symptoms and complications of diabetes.

Objectives:

Critical evaluation of Unani medicines for treating diabetes patients have been conducted. The aim of the study is to provide complete information on this subject with the action of the mechanism so that proper treatment should be done with prospective research.

Methods:

Unani literature was reviewed extensively via various search engines for the herbs, shrubs used for diabetes treatment. Ten drugs were selected for the present review.

Results and Conclusion:

There is convincing evidence to suggest that the selected drugs have promising actions against diabetes and its complications. In addition, none of the studies has reported any adverse effects with the drugs. Also, there is evidence to suggest that the method of usage described in Unani medicine may reduce or eliminate adverse events, if any. Further, there is a great need to do more research on making medicine more effective. Besides, the review article is useful for treating patients effectively by advancing the research.
Current Approaches in Diabetes Treatment and Other Strategies to Reach Normoglycemia
Authors: Sirhan Worood , Piran Ron
Published: July 2020

:

Cells are mainly dependent on glucose as their energy source. Multicellular organisms need to
adequately control individual glucose uptake by the cells, and the insulin-glucagon endocrine system
serves as the key glucose regulation mechanism. Insulin allows for effective glucose entry into the cells
when blood glucose levels are high, and glucagon acts as its opponent, balancing low blood glucose levels.
A lack of insulin will prevent glucose entry to the cells, resulting in glucose accumulation in the
bloodstream. Diabetes is a disease which is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. All diabetes
types are characterized by an inefficient insulin signaling mechanism. This could be the result of insufficient
insulin secretion, as in the case of type I diabetes and progressive incidents of type II diabetes or due
to insufficient response to insulin (known as insulin resistance). We emphasize here, that Diabetes is actually
a disease of starved tissues, unable to absorb glucose (and other nutrients), and not a disease of high
glucose levels. Indeed, diabetic patients, prior to insulin discovery, suffered from glucose malabsorption.

:

In this mini-review, we will define diabetes, discuss the current status of diabetes treatments, review the
current knowledge of the different hormones that participate in glucose homeostasis and the employment
of different modulators of these hormones. As this issue deals with peptide therapeutics, special attention
will be given to synthetic peptide analogs, peptide agonists as well as antagonists.
Gender Difference in the Risk of Adverse Outcomes After Diabetic Foot Disease: A Mini-Review
Authors: Seghieri Giuseppe , De Bellis Alessandra , Seghieri Marta , Gualdani Elisa , Policardo Laura , Franconi Flavia , Francesconi Paolo
Published: July 2020

Diabetic foot disease (DFD) is a complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by multiple
pathogenetic factors, bearing a very high burden of disability as well as of direct and indirect costs for
individuals or healthcare systems. A further characteristic of DFD is that it is associated with a marked
risk of subsequent hospitalizations for incident cardiovascular events, chronic renal failure or of allcause
mortality. Additionally, DFD is strongly linked to the male sex, being much more prevalent
among men. However, even if DFD mainly affects males, several past reports suggest that females are
disadvantaged as regards the risk of subsequent adverse outcomes. This review aims to clarify this
point, attempting to provide an explanation for this apparent oddity: being DFD a typically male complication
of diabetes but, seemingly, with a greater load of subsequent consequences for females.
Stem Cells: A Golden Therapy for Diabetic Wounds
Authors: Buchade Shubhangi , Desai Shivani , Bhonde Ramesh , Kazi Heena , Sainani Shivani , Rode Ketki
Published: July 2020

Diabetes mellitus is the 7th leading cause of death worldwide. Diabetes can affect the organ
systems and lead to serious complications, majorly categorized as macrovascular complications, microvascular
complications, and diabetic wounds. Foot ulcer develops in 15-25% diabetic patients. In
diabetic wound, there is an impairment in growth factor, neuropeptide, matrix metalloproteinases, angiogenesis,
and immune system. Many approaches are being experimented to manage this major complication
of diabetic foot, but unfortunately with lower success rate. Stem cell is an upcoming field which
is being explored in the world of diabetes. Hence, this review is designed to understand the basic pathogenesis
and complications of types of diabetes and the role of stem cells in a diabetic wound and the
benefits related to it.
Left Ventricular Noncompaction: New Insights into a Poorly Understood Disease
Authors: Filho Dário C. Sobral , do Rêgo Aquino Pedro L. , de Souza Silva Guilherme , Fabro Caroline B.
Published: July 2020

:

Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a congenital pathology that directly affects
the lining walls of myocardial tissue, causing trabeculations with blood filling in the inner wall of
the heart, concomitantly with the development of a mesocardial thinning. Although LVNC was described
for the first time as long ago as 1984, our understanding of the disease with regard to its genetic
pattern, diagnosis, clinical presentation and treatment is still scanty. LVNC can present as an
isolated condition or associated with congenital heart disease, genetic syndromes or neuromuscular
disease. This suggests that LVNC is not a distinct form of cardiomyopathy, but rather a morphological
expression of different diseases. Recognition of the disease is of fundamental importance
because its clinical manifestations are variable, ranging from the absence of any symptom to congestive
heart failure, lethal arrhythmias and thromboembolic events. The study of this disease has
emphasized its genetic aspects, as it may be of sporadic origin or hereditary, in which case it most
commonly has an autosomal dominant inheritance or one linked to the X chromosome. Echocardiography
is the gold standard for diagnosis, and magnetic resonance imaging may refine the identification
of the disease, especially in those patients with non-conclusive echocardiography. This article
sets out to review the main characteristics of LVNC and present updates, especially in the genetic
pattern, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
Weighted Aggregation Operators of Fuzzy Credibility Cubic Numbers and their Decision Making Strategy for Slope Design Schemes
Authors: Ye Jun , Du Shigui , Yong Rui , Zhang Fangwei
Published: July 2020

Background:

A Fuzzy Cubic Set (FCS) is composed of a Fuzzy Set (FS) (certain fuzzy
numbers) and an Interval-Valued Fuzzy Set (IVFS) (uncertain fuzzy numbers) to describe the hybrid
information of both. To enhance the credibility of both, they should be closely related to the
measures/degrees of credibility owing to the vagueness and uncertainty of humans’ cognitions regarding
the real world.

Objective:

This paper presents the notions of a Fuzzy Cubic Credibility Set (FCCS) and a Fuzzy
Cubic Credibility Number (FCCN) as the new generalization of the FCS notion to enhance the credibility
level of FCS by means of the credibility degrees of both FS and IVFS. Next, we define operations
of FCCNs, an expected value of FCCN, and the FCCN Weighted Arithmetic Averaging
(FCCNWAA) and FCCN Weighted Geometric Averaging (FCCNWGA) operators for Decision
Making (DM) strategy.

Method:

A DM strategy using the FCCNWAA or FCCNWGA operator is proposed to solve multicriteria
DM problems in the environment of FCCNs. Then, the proposed DM strategy is applied to
a DM example of slope design schemes for an open-pit mine in the environment of FCCNs to reflect
the feasibility of the proposed DM strategy.

Result:

By comparison with the fuzzy cubic DM strategy, the DM results with and without the degrees
of credibility, can impact on the ranking of alternatives in the DM example to reflect the effectiveness
of the proposed DM strategy.

Conclusion:

However, the highlighting advantage of this study is that the proposed DM strategy not
only indicates the degrees of credibility regarding the assessed values of FCNs in the DM process
but also enhances the DM reliability in the environment of FCCNs. Hence, the proposed DM strategy
is superior to the fuzzy cubic DM strategy in the environment of FCCNs.
Modelagem Geoestatística de Elementos Maiores dos Solos de Feira de Santana-Ba Brasil
Authors: Santos Jonathas Jesus dos , Franca Rocha Washington De Jesus Sant'Anna da , Baptista Gustavo Macedo de Mello , Souza Deorgia Tayane Mendes de , Silva Ardemirio De Barros , Santos Sarah Moura Batista dos
Published: July 2020

A variabilidade dos elementos do solo vem sendo estudada por técnicas de modelagem ambiental por meio da geoestatística. Essa pode ser uma ferramenta essencial para o desenvolvimento de projetos relacionados a métodos de interpolação e metodologias estatísticas para validar a correlação entre as características referentes aos solos. Nessa perspectiva, esse trabalho tem como objetivo modelar as características químicas naturais dos elementos maiores P, K, Mg, Ca, e Na dos solos de Feira de Santana-BA. Para tal, realizou-se a coleta das amostras de solos na área de estudo e foram realizadas as análises químicas em laboratório. Posteriormente foram removidos os outliers e efetuou-se a estatística descritiva dos atributos, avaliando também o coeficiente de correlação linear de Pearson entre os elementos. Calculou-se o tamanho do pixel, definiu-se o interpolador Krigagem por meio do cálculo dos resíduos e selecionou-se os critérios para classificação das propriedades. Os semivariogramas experimentais foram ajustados e em seguida produziu-se a Krigagem Ordinária, sendo também gerados mapas 2,5D. Observou-se que na maioria das vezes, as unidades de alta distribuição de elementos maiores estão ao oeste, em contrapartida, as áreas de baixa ao leste do município.
Caracterização de solos no núcleo de desertificação de Gilbués, Piauí, Brasil, e sua relação com os processos de degradação
Authors: Valladares Gustavo Souza , Júnior Agenor Francisco Rocha , Aquino Cláudia Maria Sabóia de
Published: July 2020

No Brasil foram definidos quatro núcleos de desertificação: Gilbués (PI), Irauçuba (CE), Seridó (PB) e Cabrobó (PE). No núcleo de desertificação de Gilbués, localizado no sudoeste do estado do Piauí da região Nordeste do Brasil, os solos são degradados por erosão hídrica, processo que se inicia com erosão laminar e evolui até formar voçorocas. O clima da região é considerado tropical úmido, mas tem vários meses de déficit hídrico e ocorrência de chuvas torrenciais. A geologia é representada pelo Grupo Areado, correspondendo a pelitos e arenitos. O objetivo perseguido neste trabalho foi o de caracterizar e classificar os solos de áreas degradadas no núcleo de desertificação de Gilbués. Foi selecionada uma topossequência com seis perfis de solos representativos das principais paisagens no entorno das áreas degradadas no município de Gilbués. Foram realizadas análises morfológicas, físicas, químicas e mineralógicas. Os solos foram classificados e calculado o fator K de erodibilidade. A degradação dos solos está diretamente relacionada ao material de origem, em que solos originários de pelitos se mostraram mais erodíveis e em maior grau de degradação. Os diversos atributos indicaram relação com a degradação dos solos, em que a relação silte/argila, a atividade da argila, os teores de bases, a mineralogia esmectítica e a matéria orgânica indicam os solos mais frágeis.
Promoting academic integrity in legal education: 'Unanswered questions' on disclosure
Authors: James Colin , Mahmud Saadia
Published: July 2020

Law students are a special case in academic integrity. If a law student breaches academic integrity policy, such as by plagiarism or collusion during their legal education, it may have long-term consequences for their reputation and their future in the legal profession. Graduating law students applying for admission to practise as a lawyer are advised to disclose mere investigations, whether or not they were found to have breached the rules, as failure to disclose may lead to their admission being refused or delayed. This paper analyses the views of 28 academic integrity stakeholders across six Australian universities, interviewed by the Academic Integrity Standards Project, with a specific focus on the 12 interviewees that were associated with legal education in their own institution. While the broader understanding of academic integrity among participants associated with legal education was similar to that of the overall participants interviewed in the study, legal academics raised the issue of disclosure requirements for a breach of academic integrity policy by students, given the significant professional consequences for a law student. Based on our findings, we propose a need for clarity and uniformity in the rules of disclosure as part of the emerging national legal profession. We also propose an approach that promotes academic integrity as an emergent professional integrity among law students, rather than focusing resources on identification and punishing students who breach academic integrity policy.
'White pages' in the academy: Plagiarism, consumption and racist rationalities
Authors: Saltmarsh Sue
Published: July 2020

This paper is situated against the backdrop of the global market in tertiary education, and recent moral panics in the Australian press concerning the implications of international education for what is perceived by many as a decline in academic standards and a potential devaluing of Australian tertiary qualifications in the global marketplace. This paper poses a challenge to these notions, and draws on poststructuralist theories of consumption, production and power, to consider how discourses of educational consumption are mapped onto the racialised commodification of tertiary education. The paper argues that racism—under the rhetorical guise of neoliberal ideals such as maintaining academic standards, ensuring institutional accountability

and protecting market share in the interest of the national economy— shapes the discursive terrain of international education in the tertiary sector.
The problem of plagiarism in academic culture
Authors: East Julianne
Published: July 2020

For those new to Australian academic culture, particularly international students, the emphasis on the importance of avoiding plagiarism can herald a new concept and a new way of using source material and constructing text, while for those familiar with academic culture the concepts of plagiarism may seem to need no explanation. In this paper I explore the idea that concepts of plagiarism are embedded in Australian academic culture, which explains why university lecturers as members of this academic culture can ‘know’ what plagiarism is, while new students by contrast can be concerned and confused. I argue that students new to university in Australia are entering ‘a high context culture’, which means that they are trying to learn from those within this culture whose understandings of some of the complexities of academic culture and academic writing are often implicit and taken for granted. In this paper, attitudes to text in the culture of the English speaking university are reviewed. I also review perspectives from scholars and lecturers working in the area of university learning and teaching. Finally, I suggest some critical ways of teaching about the problem of plagiarism.
Staff attitudes to dealing with plagiarism issues: Perspectives from one Australian university
Authors: Crisp Geoffrey T
Published: July 2020

This paper reports on the results of an online staff survey at one Australian university on attitudes to plagiarism issues, the use and efficacy of the institutional plagiarism policy and Turnitin system and staff perceptions of institutional resources that were available to assist both staff and students reduce the incidence of plagiarism. The survey was designed to capture staff perceptions, rather than verifiable activity or plagiarism detection outcomes. The survey responses highlighted the need for a common understanding of plagiarism and approaches to the detection and dealing with suspected plagiarism incidents. The responses also signalled a requirement for improved assessment practices that reduce the opportunity for plagiarism. Staff responses indicated that there was a need to publicise more effectively existing University resources for avoiding plagiarism; only a minority of survey respondents were aware of these resources. The majority of staff perceived that the institutional policies and practices were adequate for dealing with suspected plagiarism incidents.
Investigating the probability of student cheating: The relevance of student characteristics,assessment items, perceptions of prevalence and history of engagement
Authors: Kremmer Michael L , Brimble Mark , Stevenson-Clarke Peta
Published: July 2020

Academic dishonesty is a fundamental issue in terms of the educational integrity of higher education institutions. Accordingly, there is a growing pool of literature that examines this issue. This study adds to this literature by investigating factors that may influence student engagement in academic misconduct. We examine the influence of the type of assessment items, age, gender, nationality, discipline and level of study and the students' self-reported history of cheating. Drawing from a survey of 1,057 students across four major Queensland universities, we find that a student's age, gender and nationality are useful in explaining the probability of a student cheating. Our key finding, however, suggests that the likelihood that a student will engage in any given cheating behaviour is most strongly influenced by the extent to which the student engages in other forms of cheating, supporting the notion of "once a cheat always a cheat". We conclude that more needs to be done to combat a culture of acceptance of academic dishonesty and to minimise defensive misconduct by students who otherwise might not engage in such behaviour. We suggest that university administrators devote increased resources to this issue and develop mechanisms for managing and curtailing the level of academic misconduct. A failure to do so may result in a further undermining of the academic integrity of the Australian tertiary sector.