bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short report: Nucleotides supplementation to whole milk has beneficial effects on post-weaning Holstein calf performance
Authors: Abbaslou Yousef , Zahmatkesh Davood , Mahjoubi Ehsan , Yazdi Mehdi Hossein , Beiranvand Hamed , Gorjidooz Morteza
Published: November 2020

The positive effects of nucleotides (NU) supplementation in milk replacer has been elucidated in infants and in dairy calves; however, NU addition to whole milk has not been evaluated previously. This study aimed to assess NU supplementation in the whole milk on calf growth and health. Thirty Holstein calves (body weight: 39.1 ± 1.0 kg; 3 d after birth) were randomly assigned to following treatments: whole milk without any supplementation (NU0), whole milk + 0.5 g/d added NU to whole milk (NU0.5), and whole milk + 1 g/d added NU to whole milk (NU1). Calves were weaned at d 55 and stayed on study until d 75. Calves had free access to feed and water throughout the study. Calves fed all treatments were similar (P > 0.05) in dry matter intake (DMI) during the pre-weaning period, however increasing NU supplementation resulted in a linear (P < 0.05) increase in DMI during the post weaning period. Treatments did not affect body weight (BW) at the first and second month of study but final BW linearly increased as NU was added. Neither pre-weaning average daily gain nor post-weaning average daily gain were affected by treatments; accordingly, feed efficiency was similar among treatment groups. Days with loose fecal score were linearly decreased as NU was added to whole milk during the first month of life, while the fecal score did not differ among treatments until the end of the study. No difference was observed in the skeletal growth of calves in the current study. Therefore, it can be concluded that NU supplementation in the whole milk has some beneficial effects on calf performance in terms of final BW, post-weaning DMI, and less days with loose feces.
Overcoming the UCB HSCs –Derived NK Cells Dysfunctionality through Harnessing RAS/MAPK, IGF-1R and TGF-β Signaling Pathways
Authors: Shokouhifar Alireza , Sarab Gholamreza Anani , Yazdanifar Mahboubeh , Fereidouni Mohammad , Nouri Masoumeh , Ebrahimi Marzieh
Published: November 2020

BackgroundNatural killer (NK) cells differentiated from umbilical cord blood (UCB) hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) may be more suitable for cell-based immunotherapy compared to NK cells from adult donors. This is due to opportunity to choose alloreactive donors and potentially more robust in vivo expansion. However, the cytotoxicity of UCB-HSC derived NK cells against cancer cells might be suboptimal. To overcome this obstacle, we attempted to generate NK cells with potent antitumor activity by targeting RAS/MAPK, IGF-1R and TGF-β signaling pathways.MethodsThe CD34+ cells isolated from human UCB mononuclear cells through MACS with purity of (≥90%) were used to be differentiated into NK cells. After 21 days of induction with SFTG36, IS721 and IL-15/Hsp70 media, NK cells phenotype was studied and their cytotoxicity against K562 human erythroleukemia cell and SKOV3 ovarian carcinoma cells was analyzed.ResultsThe induced NK cells treated with SFTG36/I721 and SFTG36/IS721 growth factor cocktail expressed a phenotype with CD56+16+CD3- and NKG2D+ with mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of 92.7%±1.45-168.00±19.20 and 93.23%±0.75-168.66±20.00 respectively. These NK cells once activated by IL-15, demonstrated a higher cytotoxicity against K562 (≥90%) (P ≤ 0.001) and SKOV3 tumor cells (≥65%) (P ≤ 0.001) compared to IL-15/Hsp70 activated NK cells.Conclusion The differentiation of ex vivo-expanded CD34+ cells through manipulation of RAS/MAPK, IGF-1R and TGF-β signaling pathways is an efficient approach for generating functional NK cells that can be used for cancer immunotherapy.
Lipid Profile in Opium Users: Results of Fasa PERSIAN Cohort Study, First Phase
Authors: Kazemi Maryam , Bazyar Mina , Naghizadeh Mohammad Mehdi , Dehghan Azizallah , Rahimabadi Massih Sedigh , Chijan Mahsa Rostami , Bijani Mostafa , Zahmatkeshan Maryam , Ghaemi Alireza , Samimi Nastaran , Homayounfar Reza , Farjam Mojtaba
Published: November 2020

Background: One of the main health problems in many societies is the increase of opium abuse which correlated with many problems such as cardiovascular disease. The goal of our study is to evaluate the correlation of opium use with blood lipoproteins as risk factors of CVD.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study on participants of the first phase of the PERSIAN Cohort study who were 35 -70 years old. Demographic characteristics, history of smoking, alcohol, and opium consumption, medical history and medications were asked and checklists were filled out. level of physical activity and fat intake was registered. lipoprotein profiles were investigated by blood sampling. IBM SPSS Statistics v21 was used to analyze the correlation of opium and lipid profile and the significant level was <0.05.Results: From 9300 participants with a mean age of 48.06±9.44 years old, 49.6% were male. About 24.1% of participants used opium. The level of total cholesterol (adjusted p= 0.02) and HDL (adjusted p= 0.04) in people who used opium was significantly lower than others. But, the level of triglyceride (p=0.11) and LDL (adjusted p= 0.06) was not different in users and non-users. LDL (OR=0.8, adjusted p= 0.009) and total cholesterol (OR=0.81, adjusted p= 0.007) had normal level in people who used opium than non-consuming people.Conclusion: This study showed that there is correlation between opium usage and lower level of total cholesterol and LDL, however the lower level of HDL in normal range was seen in opium users.
Using a Behavioral Model to Assess the Barriers and Facilitators to Engaging Local Healthcare Providers in Conducting Interventional Cancer Trials in Nigeria
Authors: Ibraheem Abiola , Oluwasanu Mojisola , Akinbami Akinsegun , Sowunmi Akinyimika , Odedina Stella , Popoola Abiodun , Cipriano Toni , Olopade Olufunmilayo , Oladepo Oladimeji , Polite Blase
Published: November 2020

PURPOSE: Globalization of cancer clinical trials is now involving low middle income countries such as Nigeria as a rationale for global equity. With this ongoing clinical trial globalization, it is important to engage stakeholders such as local providers at the institutions where these trials are conducted by improving knowledge and perception of local providers concerning clinical trials.METHODS: This is a qualitative focused group study consisting of ten groups conducted at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital between November 2019 and January 2020 using locally developed probe questions to engage local providers according to departments. Transcripts of semi-structured interviews was analyzed using direct content analysis and was mapped against the implementation theory of capability, opportunity and motivation for behavior change(COM-B) to access the challenges and barriers reported by local providers. RESULTS: 239 local providers participated in this study, the challenges identified by providers were low knowledge about clinical trials, poor attitudes and systemic barriers. The opportunities suggested by local providers to improve the conduct of clinical trial in that environ included clinical trial workshops to improve baseline knowledge and perception and team collaboration between providers. CONCLUSION: As cancer clinical trials are being globalized, the local healthcare community should be brought to par with this new intervention and not be left behind. Training about clinical trials should not be limited to providers actively involved in the clinical trials but all the providers in that region should be empowered by improving the baseline knowledge and perception of clinical trials.
Chloroquine use in the Treatment of COVID-19: Systems Biology Report of Common Targets of SARS-CoV-2 and Chloroquine.
Authors: Souchelnytskyi Serhiy , Souchelnytskyi Nazariy
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND: Chloroquine use for treatment of COVID-19 patients has been under discussion and recommendations have been shifting from positive to caution or non-conclusive. Variability of clinical outputs requires understanding of mechanisms of the differences. Implementation of a companion diagnostic would allow selecting patients who may benefit from the drug. The first line would be markers already used in clinics. Systems biology opens for an opportunity to identify targets common for chloroquine and SARS-CoV-2. These common targets would be candidates for the companion diagnostic.METHODS: Systemic analysis of molecular mechanisms and markers engaged by chloroquine and SARS-CoV-2 virus was performed. The networks of regulatory mechanisms were explored for an intersection and relevance to clinical markers.RESULTS: Reported here systemic analysis describes the intersection of molecular mechanisms of chloroquine and processes engaged by COVID-19. 266 nodes provide insight into the mechanisms of chloroquine impact on the infection and represent a pool of companion diagnostic markers. As an example, an intersection with the markers of heart arrhythmia retrieved 19 nodes. Thirteen of them were reported in human plasma: levels of albumin, amyloid precursor protein, and endoglin correlate with adverse cardiac effects. CONCLUSIONS: Reported intersection nodes of SARS-CoV-2 and chloroquine are the candidate markers for companion diagnostic of the chloroquine application. Some of these markers are already used in the clinic and their interpretation may contribute to monitoring for adverse effects of chloroquine.
The Effect of Various Urban Design Parameter in Alleviating Urban Heat Island and Improving Thermal Health- A Case Study in a Built Pedestrianized Block of China
Authors: Ma Xuan , Zhao Jingyuan , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2020

BackgroundIncreasing urban heat island and global warming have aroused serious thermal environmental problems, even do harm to people’s thermal health. Because the importance in people’s daily life, Commercial pedestrianized block represents a symbol of a city or metropolis, therefore, focusing the attention on the thermal environment in such regions is very necessary. Most of the researches on urban thermal environment are calculated by remote sensing data, limited by the low spatial resolution of remote sensing image, it may not obviously reflect the true thermal environment of the research site, especially in some micro-scale regions. MethodsBased on this, the new software ENVI-met is developed to research the thermal environment and forecast people’s thermal sensation in micro-scale region. ResultsTherefore, the objective of this study aims at conducting field measurement and numerical simulation to assess the thermal environment of a typical commercial pedestrianized space in southern China, and assess the different urban design parameter in ameliorating urban heat island effect. Conclusions﻿Our final results demonstrate a quantitative evidence for establishing a comprehensive standard for improving thermal environment in micro-scale region, and this study also can be a supplementary in the research field about improving thermal health.
Preoperative Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) Score Predicts Short-term Surgical Outcomes in Patients with Gastric Cancer After Laparoscopy-assisted Radical Gastrectomy
Authors: Qian Yun , Liu Huaying , Pan Junhai , Yu Weihua , Lv Jiemin , Yan Jiafei , Gao Jiaqi , Wang Xianfa , Ge Xiaolong , Zhou Wei
Published: November 2020

Background: The Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score is an emerging nutrition assessment tool that is useful in gastric cancer (GC) patients. The aim of our study was to assess the predictive ability of the preoperative CONUT score for short-term outcomes in GC patients undergoing laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 309 patients who underwent curative laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy. The patients were divided into two groups according to the optimal cut-off value of the CONUT score. The clinical characteristics and postoperative complications were evaluated and analysed in the low- and high-score groups. The risk factors for complications were identified by univariate and multivariate analysis.Results: The preoperative CONUT score showed a good predictive ability for postoperative complications (area under the curve (AUC)=0.718, Youden index=0.343) compared with other indexes, with an optimal cut-off value of 2.5. Patients with high CONUT scores had a higher incidence of overall complications (P<0.001) and mild complications (P<0.001). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the CONUT score was independently associated with postoperative complications (P=0.012; odds ratio (OR)=2.433; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.218-4.862).Conclusions: The preoperative CONUT score is a reliable and useful nutritional assessment tool for predicting short-term outcomes in GC patients after laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy.
Prognostic Significance of Enlarged Paraaortic Lymph Nodes Detected During Left-sided Colorectal Cancer Surgery: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Jaram , Park Hyeong-min , Lee Soo Young , Kim Chang Hyun , Kim Hyeong Rok
Published: November 2020

Background: Very few studies have been conducted on the treatment strategy for enlarged para-aortic lymph nodes (PALNs) incidentally detected during surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the benefit of lymph node dissection in patients with incidentally detected enlarged PALNs.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed left colon and rectal cancer patients who underwent surgical resection with PALN dissection between January 2010 and December 2018. The predictive factors for pathologic PALN metastasis (PALNM) were analyzed, and survival analyses were conducted to identify prognostic factors.Results: Among 263 patients included, 19 (7.2%) patients showed pathologic PALNM, and 5 (26.33%) of them had enlarged PALNs incidentally detected during surgery. These 5 patients accounted for 2.2% of 227 patients who had no evidence of PALNM in preoperative radiologic examination. Radiologic PALNM (odds ratio [OR] 12.737, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.472–46.723) and radiologic distant metastasis other than PALNM (OR = 4.090, 95% CI 1.011–16.539) were independent predictive factors for pathologic PALNM. Pathologic T4 stage (hazard ratio [HR] 2.196, 95% CI 1.063–4.538) and R2 resection (HR 4.643, 95% CI 2.046–10.534) were independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS). In patients undergoing R0 resection, pathologic PALNM was not associated with the 5-year OS (90% vs. 82.2%, p = 0.896). Conclusions: Dissection of enlarged PALNs incidentally detected during colorectal surgery may benefit patients, with favorable survival outcomes.
A Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial of Autologous Adipose-derived Stem Cell Transplantation to Promote Mechanical Stretch-induced Skin Regeneration
Authors: Tan Poh-Ching , Chao Pei-Chuan , Cheng Chen , Chen Chu-Hsin , Huang Ru-Lin , Zhou Shuang-Bai , Xie Yun , Li Qingfeng
Published: November 2020

Background: The regeneration response of skin to mechanical stretching in vivo has been explored in reconstructive surgery for repairing large-scale deformities. The ability of skin to regenerate limits the reconstructive outcome. Here, we propose an approach in which autologous adipose-derived stem cells and mechanical stretching are combined to overcome this limitation and promote skin regeneration.Methods: This randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial screened 22 participants undergoing tissue expansion with a presence of exhausted regeneration. Twenty eligible participants received intradermal injections with stromal vascular fraction (SVF) or placebo treatments. Follow-ups were conducted at 4, 8, and 12-weeks to assess efficacy and for 2-years to assess safety. The primary endpoint was the expanded skin thickness at 12 weeks. The secondary endpoints included the skin thickness at 4 and 8 weeks, the expansion index (EI) and the skin texture score at all visits. Results: The skin thickness of the SVF group was significantly higher than that of the control group at both 8 weeks (mean difference 0.78 [95% CI -1.43 to -0.11]; p = 0.018) and 12 weeks(0.65 [95% CI -1.30 to -0.01]; p = 0.046). In the SVF group, the increment of skin thickness was significant at 4 weeks (0.49 [95% CI -0.80 to -0.06]; p = 0.010) to 8 weeks (0.45 [95% CI -0.92 to 0.02]; p = 0.026) and maintained after 12 weeks, whereas that in the control group was reduced after 8 weeks (0.42 [95% CI -0.07 to 0.91]; p = 0.037). The SVF group showed higher EI increments than the control group (0.50 [95% CI -0.00 to 0.99]; p = 0.047). The skin texture scores in the SVF group were higher than those in the control group at 12 weeks. Histologically, the SVF-treated expanded skin showed more proliferating cells and blood vessels, and the volume of extracellular matrix increased. No severe adverse events occurred.Conclusions: Transplantation of autologous adipose-derived stem cells can expedite the potency of mechanical stretch-induced skin regeneration and provide clinical reconstruction with plentiful tissue. Trial registration: This trial was registered with Chinese Clinical Trial, ChiCTR2000039317 (registered 23 Oct 2020 - retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=62738).
Unidades de conservação na região semiárida do Brasil
Authors: Paz Ronilson José da , Paz Marilia Carolina Pereira da , Lins Filho João Alberto , Lucena Reinaldo Farias Paiva de
Published: November 2020

As unidades de conservação são espaços territoriais legalmente protegidos por ato governamental consideradas como a principal ferramenta para a conservação da biodiversidade in situ. Com o advento da Lei nº 9.985/2000, que criou o Sistema Nacional de Unidades de Conservação (SNUC), foi inaugurada a política de gestão territorial, com o intuito de melhor conservar a biodiversidade, principalmente pela proteção dos biomas brasileiros mais susceptíveis à degradação ambiental, como é a Caatinga, característica da região semiárida. Portanto, este trabalho tem como objetivo traçar um panorama atual das unidades de conservação criadas na Região do Semiárido do Brasil, através de pesquisa bibliográfica e da legislação vigente. Ao final da pesquisa, foi observado que foram criadas 252 unidades de conservação em todos os estados que abrangem a Região Semiária do Brasil, das quais 72 são de proteção integral e 180 de uso sustentável, sendo as reservas particulares do patrimônio natural (RPPN) foram as mais criadas (119), no entanto protegem apenas 0,06% do semiárido. Tendo em vista a fragilidade do Bioma Caatinga, há a necessidade premente de aumentar o alcance das políticas públicas para proteger seus ecossistemas.
Atividades científicas e tecnológicas desenvolvidas com Arecaceae
Authors: Vieira e Medeiros Roseli Aparecida Cardoso , Castro Adelson Antônio de , Brandão Murilo Malveira , Oliveira Dario Alves de
Published: November 2020

Espécies de palmeiras (Arecaceae) são fontes de matérias-primas renováveis para atender às demandas das indústrias de alimentos, das farmacêuticas, de biocombustíveis, de cosméticos e outras. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo identificar a produção de conhecimento científico e tecnológico com o uso das palmeiras Mauritia flexuosa Lin. Fil. (buriti), Acrocomia aculeata (Jacq.) Lodd. ex Mart. (macaúba) e Syagrus oleracea (Mart.) Becc. (guariroba), que são utilizadas para desenvolvimento de produtos em diferentes áreas. Foram realizadas pesquisas exploratórias no banco de dados da Web of Science e a proteção de tecnologias em bancos de dados de patentes do Instituto Nacional de Propriedade Industrial (INPI), Escritório Europeu de Patentes (ESPACENET) e Escritório Latino--Americano de Patentes (LATIPAT). Os resultados permitiram identificar 223 publicações de artigos com buriti e 33 depósitos de patentes, para a macaúba, foram identificadas 192 publicações e 20 depósitos de patentes, e para a guariroba, 20 publicações de artigos e dois depósitos de patentes. Foi observado que empresas internacionais sobressaíram em inovação com o buriti, pois realizaram nove do total de 11 depósitos na área de cosmetologia. O Brasil destaca-se como o maior gerador de conhecimento científico relacionado às Arecaceae, com publicações voltadas para as áreas da agricultura, botânica e ciências dos alimentos. Entretanto, os resultados demonstraram que os depósitos de patentes realizados por brasileiros de empresas privadas, instituições científicas e tecnológicas e inventores independentes foram pequenos. O distanciamento entre a produção de conhecimento e o desenvolvimento de produtos indica que o Brasil é incipiente em ofertar inovações para o mercado com a utilização de matérias-primas das palmeiras estudadas.
Machine learning applied in the stock market through the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) indicator
Authors: Antonio Agudelo Aguirre Alberto , Alfredo Rojas Medina Ricardo , Darío Duque Méndez Néstor
Published: November 2020

The implementation of tools such as Genetic Algorithms has not been exploited for asset price prediction despite their power, robustness, and potential application in the stock market. This paper aims to fill the gap existing in the literature on the use of Genetic Algorithms for predicting asset pricing of investment strategies into stock markets and investigate its advantages over its peers Buy & Hold and traditional technical analysis. The Genetic Algorithms strategy applied to the MACD was carried out in two different validation periods and sought to optimize the parameters that generate the buy-sell signals. The performance between the machine learning-based approach, technical analysis with the MACD and B&H was compared. The results suggest that it is possible to find optimal values of the technical indicator parameters that result in a higher return on investment through Genetic Algorithms, beating the traditional technical analysis and B&H by around 4%. This study offers a new insight for practitioners, traders, and finance researchers to take advantage of Genetic Algorithms for trading rules application in forecasting financial asset returns under a more efficient and robust methodology based on historical data analysis.
Prospects for the inclusion of the preimplantation genetic diagnosis
procedure in the compulsory health insurance program taking into account
the cost characteristics and foreign experience
Authors: N.A. Altinnik , V.V. Komarova , M.A. Borodina et all
Published: November 2020

Objectives. The purpose of this study is to determine the prospects for the inclusion of the preimplantation
genetic diagnosis (PGD) procedure in the compulsory health insurance (CHI) program, taking into account
the cost characteristics of the procedure and the existing foreign experience in this field.
Material. The regulatory legal acts, the practice of the use of PGD in Russia, UK, Germany, Israel,
Netherlands, and USA are studied. Methods used: general philosophical, general scientific, private scientific
(statistical, mathematical and financial analysis, factor analysis method), special (structural-legal, comparativelegal, formal-legal).
Results. The prospects for the inclusion of the PGD procedure in the compulsory medical insurance
program are determined taking into account the cost characteristics of the procedure and the existing foreign
experience in this field. It has been established that the total cost of PGD during IVF as part of infertility
treatment consists mainly of the costs of the basic stages of IVF — among the total costs, the cost of IVF cycles
in this case is about 75%, while the cost of the study itself is about 20%, additional services and research — 5%.
In other cases, the main factors affecting the total cost of PGD will be the cost of embryo biopsy (about 25%),
molecular genetic research using the chosen method (about 70%), preliminary and subsequent genetic counseling
(about 5%). It has been proved that in order to provide normative support for such a step, it seems necessary to
differentiate the grounds for free PGD depending on the goals of diagnosis and research methods in each case.
Couples undergoing infertility treatment should be given the right to include such diagnostics in the package of
services available within a limited number of free cycles. The decision to conduct PGD should be made solely
on the basis of the results of medical genetic counseling and be completely voluntary.
Conclusions. The inclusion of the cost of PGD in the CHI programs to assess the risks of developing
genetically caused diseases and chromosomal abnormalities in fertile couples should be based on the development
of a single list of the most common genetically determined disorders, for which PGD can be performed free
of charge. In this case, each disease or chromosomal abnormality in the list should correspond to a specific
research method.
Numerical method and program for computing inlet flow distribution in sedimentation tanks
Authors: Tiruneh Ababu Teklemariam , Debessai Tesfamariam
Published: November 2020

Inlet flow distribution devices play an important role in providing uniform flow distribution in water treatment process units such as sedimentation tanks. Orifices and weirs are commonly provided along the inlet flow channels that are built across the width of sedimentation tanks. This paper presents a numerical method and computer program for computation of the inlet flow distribution over weirs and orifices. The method is based on solving a differential equation of the flow profile along the flow distribution channel using numerical technique, namely, the Runge-Kutta method. The method replaces the trial and error step employed in earlier methods in the determination of weir discharge depths. Application examples are provided in which more uniform flow distribution were achieved by employing wider channel and full tapering of the inlet flow channel geometry or through partial tapering of the ends of the channel. The method can be extended for computation of inlet flow distribution in other similar water and wastewater treatment process units that employ weirs and orifices.
A review on the driving forces of water decline and its impacts on the environment in Poyang Lake, China
Authors: Li Qiyue , Lai Geying , Devlin Adam Thomas
Published: November 2020

The recession of water levels of natural lakes and their associated impacts on wetland ecosystems is a serious issue worldwide. Poyang Lake (the largest freshwater lake in China) has experienced a heightened and prolonged water decline since the year 2000, which causes concern for associated ecological impacts. In particular, climate change, operation of the Three Gorges Dam (TGD), and high magnitude sand mining appear to be well-correlated with the occurrence of water decline in Poyang Lake. Though the above factors have been analyzed in previous studies, a comprehensive summary has never been compiled. This paper provides a detailed literary review highlighting the driving forces and possible impacts of the consistent water decline in Poyang Lake. We conclude here that the operation of TGD is a fundamental cause for the lake water decline, aggravated by climate change and sand mining. The water decline has caused a deterioration of water quality, as well as having given rise to a potential threat to the habitat of migratory birds and Yangtze finless porpoises. The paper intends to offer constructive references that can be used in decision-making for effective protection of water resources and lake ecosystems.
Small Bowel Resection in Malignancy
Authors: DAŞIRAN Mehmet Fatih , AKBAŞ Ahmet , DAGMURA Hasan , DALDAL Emin , DERESOY Faik Alev , OKAN İsmail
Published: November 2020

Aim: The diagnosis of small bowel (SB) tumors is often delayed due to the lack of specific symptoms and
inadequacy of conventional endoscopic and imaging methods. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the
clinical and pathological features of SB resections in patients with malignancy and determine the necessary
approaches for early diagnosis.
Methods: Patients who underwent SB resections for primary or metastatic tumors between
2012 and 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. Demographic data, diagnostic workup, surgical treatment
patterns, histopathological features, and outcome parameters were documented.
Results: The study included 61 patients (38 males, 23 females), with a mean age of 59 years. Twenty-four
patients had primary SB tumors and 37 had metastatic tumors. Adenocarcinoma was the most common
type of primary tumor while the colon was the most common origin for metastatic involvement. Twenty
(32%) patients underwent emergency operations. Acute mechanical intestinal obstruction was the most
common indication for emergency surgery. Forty-one (68%) patients underwent elective operations. The
most common symptom was abdominal pain, followed by weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting,
and constipation and diarrhea.
Conclusion: The most important parameters that determine the prognosis are histological
type and tumor stage. Considering SB tumors during the differential diagnosis of non-specific abdominal
complaints is critically important for the early diagnosis of the disease
Oküler Tutulumu Olmayan Sarkoidoz Hastaları ile Sağlıklı Bireylerde Maküler Koroid Kalınlığının Karşılaştırılması
Authors: YİĞİT Kenan , KAVAS Murat , ÇETİNKAYA Ersan , DOĞAN Mustafa , KALAYCI Mustafa
Published: November 2020

Amaç: Bu çalışmada oküler tutulumu olmayan sarkoidoz hastaları ile sağlıklı bireylerde maküler koroid kalınlığının karşılaştırılması amaçlanmıştır.Gereç ve Yöntemler: Bu retrospektif çalışmaya oküler tutulumu olmayan 25 sarkoidoz hastasının 25 gözü ile sağlıklı 25 bireyin 25 gözü dahil edildi. Hasta dosyalarından rutin oftalmolojik muayene bilgileri ve Spektral Domain Optik Koherens Tomografi (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) yardımıyla koroid kalınlığı kayıtları alındı. Koroid kalınlığı subfoveal, 1500 µm nazal ve 1500 µm temporal kadranlarda ölçüldü. Bulgular: Oküler tutulumu olmayan sarkoidozlu hastalarda ortalama yaş 43,02±3,25 iken kontrol grubunda 44,07±4,21 idi (p=0,65). Oküler tutulumu olmayan sarkoidozlu hastalarda 12 erkek olgu varken kontrol grubunda 11 erkek olgu mevcuttu (p=0,53). Ortalama aksiyel uzunluk ise oküler tutulumu olmayan sarkoidozlu hastalarda 22,30±0,46 izlenirken kontrol grubunda 22,16±0,34 bulundu (p=0,27). Koroid kalınlıkları sarkoidozlu hastalarda subfoveal kadranda 248,16±42,7 µm, nazal kadranda 254,21±42,6 µm, temporal kadranda 260,5±31 µm iken sağlıklı bireylerde subfoveal kadranda 254,13±52,3 µm, nazal kadranda 259,26±52,3 µm, temporal kadranda 267,19±64,7 µm olarak saptandı. Sarkoidozlu hastalar ve sağlıklı bireylerin subfoveal, temporal ve nazal kadranlarda koroid kalınlıkları arasında anlamlı bir fark bulunamadı (sırasıyla p=0,059, p=0,072, p=0,088). Sonuç: Oküler tutulumu olmayan sarkoidoz hastaları ile benzer yaş grubu sağlıklı bireylerin subfoveal, temporal ve nazal kadranlarda koroid kalınlığı arasında anlamlı bir fark bulunamadı. Ancak koroid kalınlıkları arasında fark saptanamamasının nedeni hasta grubunun evresi ve hasta sayısının az olması ile ilgili olabileceği düşünülmüştür.
Is Elevated Monocyte to High-Density Lipoprotein Ratio A Predictor of Symptomatic Plaque in Patients With İntermediate Carotid Artery Stenosis?
Authors: ENHOŞ Asim , KARAÇÖP Erdem
Published: November 2020

Aim: Monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (MHR) is a new and easily measurable marker positively associated with inflammation. In this study, we aimed to evaluate if there was a relationship between MHR and the risk of presence of symptomatic plaque in patients with intermediate carotid artery stenosis.

Materials and Methods: A total of 179 of patients who had 50%-70% stenosis in the carotid artery were included in this retrospective cohort study. Patients were assigned into two groups based on symptomatic (n=104) and asymptomatic (n=75) group. Groups were compared in terms of MHR. Predictive role of MHR for presence of symptomatic plaque was investigated.

Results: Monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio was significantly higher in the symptomatic group (11.40 ± 4.24 vs 18.33 ± 9.06, p < 0.001). Monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio > 13.48; had 70.19% sensitivity and 76.0% specificity for prediction of symptomatic plaque (AUC: 0.787, 95% CI: 0.720–0.840, p < 0.001) in patients with intermediate carotid artery stenosis. In a univariate analysis age, gender, hemoglobin, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), smoking, total cholesterol and MHR were significantly associated with presence of symptomatic carotid plaques. Monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (OR:1.330, p < 0.001) and hemoglobin (OR:1.441, p = 0.013) were found to be significant independent predictors of symptomatic plaques in the carotid artery in a multivariate analysis, after adjusting for other risk factors.

Conclusion: MHR plays a moderate role for prediction of symptomatic plaques in the carotid artery.
İzotretinoin Tedavisi Sırasında Galaktore Gelişimi: Yeni Bir Yan Etki mi?
Authors: BENER Fidan
Published: November 2020

İzotretinoin şiddetli akne tedavisinde kullanılan sentetik bir retinoik asittir. Akne tedavisinde çok etkili olmasına karşın pek çok yan etkileri bulunmaktadır. Akne vulgaris nedeniyle, 40 mg/gün dozunda izotretinoin tedavisi başlanan, 18 yaşındaki kadın bir hastanın, tedavisinin ikinci ayında, sağ memesinden sütlü akıntı gelme şikayeti galaktore olarak değerlendirildi. Başka bir hastalığı ve herhangi bir ilaç kullanma öyküsü yoktu. Etiyolojik nedene yönelik yapılan incelemede laboratuvar ve görüntüleme tetkikleri normal bulundu. Literatürde izoretinoinle ilişkili sadece bir olgu bulunmaktadır. Bu makalede izotretinoin tedavisi sırasında ortaya çıkan hiperprolaktinemisiz galaktore olgusu sunulmaktadır.
Migren Atak ile Acil Servise Başvuran Hastaların İlk Değerlendirilmesinde C-Reaktif Protein/Albumin Oranı
Authors: BARİ Okan , SÖĞÜT Özgür , ÇAKMAK Sümeyye , KAPLAN Onur
Published: November 2020

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, migren atağına bağlı başağrısı şikayetiyle acil servise (AS) başvuran hastalarda ilk başvuruda ölçülen serum C-Reaktif Protein (CRP)/Albumin ve Nötrofil/lenfosit (NLO) oranlarının, MIDAS (Migrene bağlı iş kaybı değerlendirme ölçeği) skoru ile ölçülen migren ilişkili iş göremezlik durumunun derecesini tahmin etmedeki rolünün araştırılması amaçlanmıştır.

Gereç ve Yöntemler: Çalışmaya Haziran 2019-Ağustos 2019 tarihleri arasında acil service başvuran ve migren atak tanısı konulan hastalar dahil edildi. Hastalar MIDAS skoruna göre gruplara ayrıldı. Ayrıca auralı ve aurasız migren atak hastaları olmak üzere iki alt gruba ayrıldı. Gruplar arasında yaş, serum CRP/Albumin ve NLO değerleri karşılaştırıldı.

Bulgular: Çalışmaya 45’i erkek (%17,9), 207’si kadın (%82,1) olmak üzere toplam 252 migren atak tanısı konulan hasta dahil edildi. Aurası olan hastaların yaş ortalaması 39,6±11,9 yıl (yaş aralığı; 18-80), aurası olmayan hastaların yaş ortalaması 35,8±9,4 yıl (yaş aralığı; 18-89) olup, her iki grupta yaş ortalamaları açısından istatistiksel olarak anlamlı farklılık saptandı (p=0,005). Ancak ortalama serum CRP/Albumin ve NLO düzeyleri açısından gruplar arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark saptanmadı. MIDAS skoruna göre gruplar arasında yaş ortalaması açısından istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark tespit edildi (p<0,001). Ek olarak, MIDAS skoru ile yaş arasında pozitif yönde istatistiksel olarak anlamlı korelasyon saptandı (rho=0,242 ve p<0,001). Ancak ortalama serum CRP/Albumin ve NLO düzeyleri açısından gruplar arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark saptanmadı (p=0,794 ve p=0,266, sırasıyla).

Sonuç: Migren atağı ile acil servise başvuran hastalarda serum CRP/Albumin ve NLO düzeyleri MIDAS skoru ile ölçülen migren ilişkili iş göremezlik durumunun şiddetini tahmin etmede yararlı değildir. Ancak yaş artıkça migren ilişkili iş göremezlik durumunun şiddetinin arttığı söylenebilir.
A Psychosomatic Approach to Quality of Life in Patients with Epilepsy
Authors: ATAR Ayse Terzi , GICA Şakir , KURTULMUŞ Yasemin , GÜLEÇ Hüseyin
Published: November 2020

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate psychosocial functionality in patients with epilepsy using the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research (DCPR) classification system that aims to identify patients with clinically significant and relatively weighted psychological factors and to compare it with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). In addition, it was aimed to validate the DCPR system by investigating the effects of psychosomatic diagnoses on the quality of life in the disease process.

Materials and Methods: One hundred consecutive patients with epilepsy who were referred to the Epilepsy special branch outpatient clinic were included in the study. The control group consisted of 53 healthy volunteers. All participants underwent structured DCPR and SCID-I interviews and were investigated using the Short Form-36 (SF-36) and a Sociodemographic Data Form.

Results: Eighty-seven percent of the patients met the diagnostic criteria with the DCPR system while 82% of the patients met the diagnostic criteria with DSM (χ2(1, N =100) = 4.539, p = 0.04). Examination of the effect of diagnostic systems on SF-36 scores in patients with epilepsy with the hierarchical regression model showed that diagnoses in the DCPR system predicted most of the SF-36 subscale scores better.

Conclusion: The DCPR system could detect psychological distress at a higher rate than DSM in patients with epilepsy. Syndromes in the DCPR classification were associated with poor quality of life in the patients. The DCPR classification is therefore valid in patients with epilepsy and may have advantages in a more comprehensive evaluation of patients.
Türkiye’de Günlük COVID-19 Test Sayısı ve Yeni Vaka İlişkisinin Nedensellik Analizi
Authors: TARLACI Sultan
Published: November 2020

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, Türkiye’de 11 Mart–16 Temmuz 2020 tarihleri arasında, COVID-19 günlük tanısal test sayıları ve tanı konulan yeni vaka sayıları arasında kısa ve uzun süreli nedensellik analizi yapılması amaçlandı.

Gereç ve Yöntemler: Çalışmamızda klasik sıklık istatistiklerinin yanı sıra, vektör otoregresyon (VAR) modeli, Granger nedenselliği analizi ve tam düzenlenmiş en küçük kareler (FMOLS) testi kullanıldı.

Bulgular: Granger nedensellik analizine göre, VAR modelinin önerdiği beş gecikme uzunluğu ile günlük olarak gerçekleştirilen COVID-19 tanı testlerinin sayısı, günlük yeni vakaların nedeni olarak belirlendi. Buna karşın, günlük yeni vakaların sayısı COVID-19 test sayısının bir nedeni olarak tespit edilmedi.

Sonuç: Sonuçlara göre, COVID-19 günlük testinden günlük yeni tanı konulan vakaya doğru tek yönlü bir nedensellik olduğu sonucuna varıldı. Uzun vadeli nedensellik ilişkisi tahmini FMOLS tarafından analiz edildi. Bağımlı değişken yeni tanı konulan vaka sayısı alındığında, bağımsız değişken test sayısında uzun dönemde meydana gelen %1’lik bir artışın, yeni tanı alan vaka sayısında %0,71 artış sağlayacağı tespit edildi. Test sayısı ile yeni tanı konulan vaka sayısı arasında pozitif bir ilişki bulundu. Eğer denkleme uzun dönem eşbütünleme katsayıları da eklenir ise %1’lik bir COVID-19 test sayısı artışının, %0,47 yeni tanı alan vaka sayısında artışa neden olabileceği öngörüldü.
Experimental Approaches to Identify Selective Picomolar Inhibitors for Carbonic Anhydrase IX
Authors: Kazokaitė-Adomaitienė Justina , Becker Holger M. , Smirnovienė Joana , Dubois Ludwig J. , Matulis Daumantas
Published: November 2020

Background:

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) regulate pH homeostasis via the reversible hydration of CO2, thereby emerging as essential enzymes for many vital functions. Among 12 catalytically active CA isoforms in humans, CA IX has become a relevant therapeutic target because of its role in cancer progression. Only two CA IX inhibitors have entered clinical trials, mostly due to low affinity and selectivity properties.

Objective:

The current review presents the design, development, and identification of the selective nano- to picomolar CA IX inhibitors VD11-4-2, VR16-09, and VD12-09.

Methods and Results:

Compounds were selected from our database, composed of over 400 benzensulfonamides, synthesized at our laboratory, and tested for their binding to 12 human CAs. Here we discuss the CA CO2hydratase activity/inhibition assay and several biophysical techniques, such as fluorescent thermal shift assay and isothermal titration calorimetry, highlighting their contribution to the analysis of compound affinity and structure- activity relationships. To obtain sufficient amounts of recombinant CAs for inhibitor screening, several gene cloning and protein purification strategies are presented, including site-directed CA mutants, heterologous CAs from Xenopus oocytes, and native endogenous CAs. The cancer cell-based methods, such as clonogenicity, extracellular acidification, and mass spectrometric gas-analysis are reviewed, confirming nanomolar activities of lead inhibitors in intact cancer cells.

Conclusions:

Novel CA IX inhibitors are promising derivatives for in vivo explorations. Furthermore, the simultaneous targeting of several proteins involved in proton flux upon tumor acidosis and the disruption of transport metabolons might improve cancer management.
Current Studies of Aspirin as an Anticancer Agent and Strategies to Strengthen its Therapeutic Application in Cancer
Authors: Tran Phuong H.L. , Lee Beom-Jin , Tran Thao T.D.
Published: November 2020

Aspirin has emerged as a promising intervention in cancer in the past decade. However, there are existing
controversies regarding the anticancer properties of aspirin as its mechanism of action has not been clearly
defined. In addition, the risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract from aspirin is another consideration that
requires medical and pharmaceutical scientists to work together to develop more potent and safe aspirin therapy
in cancer. This review presents the most recent studies of aspirin with regard to its role in cancer prevention and
treatment demonstrated by highlighted clinical trials, mechanisms of action as well as approaches to develop
aspirin therapy best beneficial to cancer patients. Hence, this review provides readers with an overview of aspirin
research in cancer that covers not only the unique features of aspirin, which differentiate aspirin from other
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but also strategies that can be used in the development of
drug delivery systems carrying aspirin for cancer management. These studies convey optimistic messages on
the continuing efforts of the scientist on the way of developing an effective therapy for patients with a low response
to current cancer treatments.
Cardiovascular Complications in Patients with Klinefelter’s Syndrome
Authors: Sesti Franz , Pofi Riccardo , Pozza Carlotta , Minnetti Marianna , Gianfrilli Daniele , Kanakis George A.
Published: November 2020

More than 70 years have passed since the first description of Klinefelter Syndrome (KS), the most
frequent chromosome disorder causing male infertility and hypogonadism. KS is associated with increased cardiovascular
(CV) mortality due to several comorbidities, including hypogonadism, as well as metabolic syndrome
and type 2 diabetes, which are highly prevalent in these patients. Aside from metabolic disturbances, patients
with KS suffer from both acquired and congenital CV abnormalities, cerebrovascular thromboembolic disease,
subclinical atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction, which may all contribute to increased CV mortality.
The mechanisms involved in this increased risk of CV morbidity and mortality are not entirely understood.
More research is needed to better characterise the CV manifestations, elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms
and define the contribution of testosterone replacement to restoring CV health in KS patients. This review
explores the complex association between KS, metabolic syndrome and CV risk in order to plan future
studies and improve strategies to reduce mortality in this high-risk population.
Most Promising Compounds for Treating COVID-19 and Recent Trends in Antimicrobial & Antifungal Agents
Authors: Nayarisseri Anuraj
Published: November 2020

Multidrug resistance in microbes poses a major health crisis and demands for the discovery
of novel antimicrobial agents. The recent pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 has raised a public health emergency
in almost all the countries of the world. Unlike viruses, a bacterium plays a significant role in
various environmental issues such as bioremediation. Furthermore, biosurfactants produced by various
bacterial species have an edge over traditionally produced chemical surfactants for its biodegradability,
low toxicity and better interfacial activity with various applications in agriculture and industry.
This special issue focuses on the global perspective of drug discovery for various antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal
agents for infectious diseases. The issue also emphasizes the ongoing developments and the role of microbes in environmental
remediation. We wish the articles published in this issue will enhance the current understanding in microbiology
among the readers, and serve as the "seed of an idea" for drug development for ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
4-Aryl-1,4-Dihydropyridines as Potential Enoyl-Acyl Carrier Protein Reductase Inhibitors: Antitubercular Activity and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Venugopala Katharigatta N. , Deb Pran Kishore , Pillay Melendhran , Chopra Deepak , Chandrashekharappa Sandeep , Morsy Mohamed A. , Aldhubiab Bandar E. , Attimarad Mahesh , Nair Anroop B. , Sreeharsha Nagaraja , Kandeel Mahmoud , Venugopala Rashmi , Mohanlall Viresh
Published: November 2020

Background:

Tuberculosis remains one of the most deadly infectious diseases worldwide
due to the emergence of multi-drug resistance (MDR) and extensively drug resistance (XDR) strains of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB).

Aims:

Currently, available drugs are getting resistant and toxic. Hence, there is an urgent need for the
development of potent molecules to treat tuberculosis.

Materials and Methods:

Herein, the screening of a total of eight symmetrical 1,4-dihydropyridine (1,4-
DHP) derivatives (4a-4h) was carried out for whole-cell anti-TB activity against the susceptible H37Rv
and MDR strains of MTB.

Results and Discussion:

Most of the compounds exhibited moderate to excellent activity against the
susceptible H37Rv. Moreover, the most promising compound 4f (against H37Rv) having paratrifluoromethyl
phenyl group at 4-position and bis para-methoxy benzyl ester group at 3- and 5-
positions of 1,4-dihydropyridine pharmacophore, exhibited no toxicity, but demonstrated weak activity
against MTB strains resistant to isoniazid and rifampicin. In light of the inhibitory profile of the title
compounds, enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (InhA) appeared to be the appropriate molecular target.
A docking study of these derivatives against InhA receptor revealed favorable binding interactions. Further,
in silico predicted ADME properties of these compounds 4a-4h were found to be in the acceptable
ranges, including satisfactory Lipinski’s rule of five, thereby indicating their potential as drug-like molecules.

Conclusion:

In particular, the 1,4-DHP derivative 4f can be considered an attractive lead molecule for
further exploration and development of more potent anti-TB agents as InhA inhibitors.
Diverse Pharmacological Potential of Various Furanone Derivatives: A Mini-Review
Authors: Husain Asif , Hussain Afzal , Mahdi Wael A. , Asif Mohammad
Published: November 2020

Furanone is present in many natural compounds. Furanone derivatives are playing important roles in pharmaceutical
medicinal and organic chemistry. Various furanone derivatives were exhibited their different pharmacological activities
such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant, and other anticipated activities. Furanone derivatives
were also used as intermediate for synthesis of other organic compounds. In this review, we studied different types of
pharmacological activities of several furanone derivatives.