bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efectividad de las vacunas contra SARS-CoV-2 en hospitalizados con fallas vacunales en 10 hospitales de la CCINSHAE
Authors: Pérez-Padilla José Rogelio , Mora-Pavón Alfredo , Hernández-Cárdenas Carmen M , Galindo-Fraga Arturo , Kawa-Karasik Simón , Espinoza-Bautista Karla A , Reyes-Terán Gustavo
Published: April 2022

Objetivo. Evaluar la efectividad de las vacunas contra SARS-CoV-2 para evitar muerte e intubación en pacientes hospitalizados con Covid-19. Material y métodos. Se presentó un análisis de 3 565 hospitalizaciones por SARS-CoV-2 de personas mayores de 20 años de edad, reportadas con fines de salud pública por 10 hospitales de especialidad. Se comparó a los egresados por mejoría (2 094) con los fallecidos (1 471) en modelos mixtos de regresión logística ajustados por edad, sexo, número de comorbilidades y el hospital como variable aleatoria. Resultados. Un esquema completo de vacunación, con cinco tipos de vacunas disponi­bles, tuvo un efecto protector para muerte o intubación (RM: 0.67, IC95%: 0.54,0.83, 33% de protección); y para muerte (RM: 0.80, IC95%: 0.64,0.99, 20% de protección) estos datos se compararon con los que no habían sido vacunados. Todas las vacunas aplicadas mostraron un efecto protector con un RM<0.8, con intervalos de confianza variables. Conclusio­nes. El antecedente de vacunación reduce los riesgos de ser intubado y morir, aun en pacientes previamente vacunados y hospitalizados con Covid-19 grave.
Engineering Geological Ground Models: Industry Applications for Geotechnical Investigation Planning, Data Acquisition & Appraisal
Authors: Al-Nuaimi A.N. , Cunningham J. , Fu H.L.K. , Li G. , Styles K.A. , Garcia C. , Loh C.K. , Warnest C.M.
Published: April 2022

Adoption of an engineering geological ground model (EGGM) prior to ground investigation, as a conceptual site characterisation approach, empowers users with the capacity to predict subsurface data trends, test assumptions, refine geotechnical inputs and better manage ongoing ground investigations. This approach informs the planning of ground investigation (GI) locations, in-situ testing, and non-intrusive surveys to ensure high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective data yield. This theme is explored using a case study at Manila Bay, in the Philippines, where a ground model was developed for planning and execution of site investigations and to add-value to site characterisation and geotechnical appraisal for nearshore site formation.
Use of Slurry and CSM Wall for Excavation and Lateral Support Works
Authors: Hung Kenny , Lee Leo , Li Victor
Published: April 2022

Steel beams embedded in soil cement columns or soil cement panels can be used for construction of embedded walls for excavation and lateral support works. The soil cement columns can be formed using the secant pile method or deep cement mixing while soil cement panels can be constructed using cutter soil mixing (CSM). Steel beam walls formed by CSM are called the CSM wall. Another method for forming a soil cement panel is by using the method for construction of diaphragm wall and such walls are known as slurry wall. In this paper, the design concepts and construction procedures of steel beam walls are discussed. Case histories of slurry walls and CSM walls are also presented to illustrate the use of steel beam walls in supporting deep excavations in Hong Kong.
Application of landscape Architecture to the Rehabilitation of Quarry in Hong Kong and an Overseas Case Study
Authors: Lee W. H. , Fung L. M. K. , Lai C. K.
Published: April 2022

Background: The objective of this study is to explore the application of landscape architecture in quarries via a case study. The findings of our imitations in this study could have significant positive implications to inspire readers to more comprehensive thoughts and inspirations. Methodology: Desktop research is preliminarily adopted. Two case studies (Shek O Quarry in Hong Kong and Serra da Arrabida Natural Park in Portugal) have been selected. Findings: There are perceptible benefits from Shek O Quarry and Serra da Arrabida Natural Park on the use of landscaping in quarry. Benefits include the creation of diversity in ecology, vegetation, landscape visual impacts and the nesting areas that have been created. The disbenefits include immeasurable results of negative environmental impacts and high initial costs. Conclusion: Based on the research undertaken, it can be ascertained that the benefits of using landscaping in quarry outnumber the disbenefits. This can be perceived through the two case study analyses.
The Sustainability of Concrete for Use under Different Loading and Environmental Conditions
Authors: Lee W. H. , Wong M. T. , Fung L. M. K. , Lai C. K.
Published: April 2022

The objective of this study explores the sustainability of different concretes for use under different loading and environmental conditions in the construction and civil engineering industries. This study could have significant positive implications to inspire readers’ more comprehensive thought and inspirations obtained from findings for our imitations. Desktop research is preliminarily adopted and an experiment is used. Thirty percent recycled coarse aggregate generally provides superior results compared to 30% recycled fine aggregate. Based on the research undertaken, it can be concluded that using recycled coarse aggregate in new construction and civil engineering projects just makes good sense.
Design and Construction of Ground Improvement for TMCLKL Southern Ventilation Building
Authors: Martucci A. , Pickles A.
Published: April 2022

The Southern Ventilation Building (SVB) is located on newly reclaimed land where 15-20 m of Sand Fill overly 15m of soft to firm silty clay Marine Deposit which was improved with prefabricated band drains. The SVB sits directly above the Tuen-Mun Chek Lap Kok Tunnels (TMCLKL). The original design required installation of over 330 number of shaft grouted piles. Due to the presence of the tunnels the pile design was relatively inefficient and required 3m thick pilecaps. An alternative design was developed to delete the piled foundations by carrying out additional ground improvement within the soft soil layer using a combination of Jet Grouting and Deep Cement Mix using Cutter Soil Mix (CSM) and support the building on a raft foundation. The ground improvement scheme was also leveraged to reduce the temporary wall depth and shoring quantities. In order to rationalise and minimise the ground improvement quantities, the CSM panels formed a grid of orthogonal underground beams which allowed an efficient Area Replacement Ratio to be achieved.
Reinforced Earth Wall - A Sustainable Alternative to a Piled Vehicular Abutment Ramp
Authors: PLANTIER Dimitri , LEE Norman M. H. , TOH Gavin S. H. , TO Sai Shun , KWAN Kim C. H.
Published: April 2022

A vehicular ramp was proposed to replace the existing elevated road (which has been planned for future demolition) connecting to existing podium deck of the Building for vehicular circulation.In the original design, socket H-piles with pile cap and reinforced concrete wall would be constructed as the abutment for supporting the replacement ramp in form of steel girders. In order to minimize the construction time and to fit in the tight construction schedule, a Reinforced Earth Wall was proposed as an alternative. This Reinforced Earth Wall was designed as a true abutment with no piling required and the steel girder was supported by a reinforced concrete seating which was located directly on the backfill of the Reinforced Earth Wall.
On the Application of Mechanical Reinforcement of Tree Roots to Slope Stabilization
Authors: Choi Ricky Y.S. , So Arthur K.O.
Published: April 2022

The root strengthening effects on soil behind retaining walls may be quantified by a simplified equation ΔS = 1.2TR(AR/A) where ΔS, TR and AR/A are the shear strength increase, tensile strength of root and root area ratio respectively. However, this effect is ignored during stability analysis due to the possible significant variability of the potential beneficial effect and extreme difficulty in fully characterizing the tree roots and quantifying their effects. In this paper, advancements in the last few decades in biotechnical slope stability are reviewed. Representative models to quantify the mechanical effects of tree roots are studied. If other potential beneficial effects due to existence of roots and suction effect due to transpiration of tree are ignored, the term 1.2, root tensile strength and root area ratio may still be the three key parameters to the root strengthening effect in slope stability.
Design Optimization of Permanent Systematic Rock Bolts and Shotcrete Lining for Large-Span Caverns in Hard Rock
Authors: To Franklin K.L. , Seto Andrew K.W.
Published: April 2022

The hilly terrain in Hong Kong is underlain by hard and massive igneous rocks. This brings favorable conditions to develop underground space including rock caverns as an alternative source of land supply. In recent years, the government departments have been playing a leading role to study the feasibility of rock cavern development in Hong Kong. These studies include the relocation of existing sewage treatment works, service reservoirs, refuse transfer stations, archive centre and laboratory to rock caverns. After completion of the relocation, the previously occupied surface land can be released for other developments beneficial to the communities. For an underground excavation in competent rock, the use of empirical design approaches is usually fast and straightforward to assess the rock mass conditions and determine the rock support systems. However, there are a number of limitations that empirical approaches cannot adequately address regarding the design of rock caverns, in particular the appropriateness for large-span excavation and influence of multiple parallel excavations.
Using Radar Satellite Data for Ground Deformation Monitoring: ATLAS In SAR
Authors: N. Devanthery , E. Garcia-Boadas , A. Giralt , D. Le-Goff , B. Lam
Published: April 2022

Radar satellite interferometry (InSAR) is a non-invasive surveying technique based on the exploitation of SAR images, able to measure millimetric motion of terrain structures over wide areas in both urban and non-urban environments. Sixense processing chain, ATLAS, has been successfully used to detect and monitor ground motion in many different projects, cities and sectors to follow subsidence, heave, building stability and landslides amongst others. ATLAS reaches high density of measurement points, and covers large areas with high-resolution imagery, and weekly revisits. This presents a huge opportunity for the monitoring and management of infrastructures. However, the unprecedent spatial and temporal volume of InSAR measurements- which are only going to increase with new sensors to come- presents a challenge. Thus, ATLAS is in continuous development to efficiently extract characterized information of maximum benefit to end users by implementing different algorithms and AI methodologies over InSAR Big Data results to provide ready-to-use, actionable information.
Azole Derivatives: Recent Advances as Potent Antibacterial and Antifungal
Agents
Authors: Emami Leila , Faghih Zeinab , Ataollahi Elaheh , Sadeghian Sara , Rezaei Zahra , Khabnadideh Soghra
Published: April 2022

Background:

Azoles are the famous and widespread scaffold in the pharmaceutical industry through wide range of activities, high efficacy, and good tolerability and oral availability. Furthermore, azole derivatives have engrossed attentiveness as potent antimicrobial agents.

Introduction:

The purpose of this review is to execute an overview of the pharmacological aspects of the main scaffolds of azoles, including imidazole, benzimidazole, triazole and tetrazole which possessed antimicrobial activity from 2016 to 2020 as well as all of our publication in this field. In addition, we discussed the relationship between the structure and activity and molecular docking studies of the azole derivatives to provide key features and useful information for the synthesis of novel azole compounds with desirable biological activities. The presented structures in this review have been tested against several bacteria and fungi such that E. coli and C. albicans were common in all of these studies.

Results:

The comparison of reported MIC showed that fluconazole base structures were the most active ones as antifungal agents and triazole derivatives bearing nitrophenyl and coumarin moieties had the most antibacterial activity.

Conclusion:

Triazole and imidazole scaffolds are more important in the design of antimicrobial compounds than other azole derivatives like benzimidazole or tetrazole. All the most active compounds fulfilled the Lipinski rules.
Exploration of the Potential Mechanisms of Lingqihuangban Granule for
Treating Diabetic Retinopathy Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: He Shuai , Gu Chufeng , Su Tong , Zhou Chuandi , Lhamo Thashi , Draga Deji , Yin Lili , Qiu Qinghua
Published: April 2022

Background:

The Lingqihuangban Granule (LQHBG), a remarkable Chinese herbal compound, has been used for decades to treat diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases) with obvious effects. Through the method of network pharmacology, the present study constructed bioactive component-relative targets and protein-protein interaction network of the LQHBG and implemented gene function analysis and pathway enrichment of targets, discussing the mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine LQHBG in treating DR.

Materials and Methods:

The bioactive ingredients of LQHBG were screened and obtained using TCMSP and ETCM databases, while the potential targets of bioactive ingredients were predicted by SwissTargetPrediction and ETCM databases. Compared with the disease target databases of TTD, Drugbank, OMIM and DisGeNET, the therapeutic targets of LQHBG for DR were extracted. Based on DAVID platform, GO annotation and KEGG pathway analyses of key targets were explored, combined with the screening of core pathways on Omicshare database and pathway annotation on Reactome database.

Results:

A total of 357 bioactive components were screened from LQHBG, involving 86 possible targets of LQHBG treating DR. In PPI network, INS and ALB were identified as key genes. The effective targets were enriched in multiple signaling pathways, such as PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways.

Conclusion:

This study revealed the possible targets and pathways of LQHBG treating DR, reflecting the characteristics of multicomponent, multitarget and multipathway treatment of a Chinese herbal compound, and provided new ideas for further discussion.
Silencing of Long Non-coding RNA H19 Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide
(LPS)-induced Apoptosis and Inflammation Injury by
Regulating miR-140-5p/TLR4 Axis in Cell Models of Pneumonia
Authors: Yang Hong
Published: April 2022

Objective:

Mounting studies have clarified the link between long non-coding
RNAs (lncRNAs) and pneumonia. This research aims to probe the function and
regulatory mechanism of lncRNA H19 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cell models
of pneumonia.

Methods:

WI-38 cells were exposed to LPS for 12 h to mimic cell models of pneumonia.
The relative expression of H19, miR-140-5p, and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) were
detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The cell
viability was detected by MTT assay. The protein expression of apoptosis-associated
proteins (Bax and Bcl-2) and TLR4 were determined by western blot. Moreover, the
content of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured by
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The target relationship between miR-
140-5p and H19/ TLR4 was confirmed by Dual luciferase reporter (DLR) assay.

Results:

LncRNA H19 and TLR4 were up-regulated, while miR-140-5p was downregulated
in peripheral blood of patients with pneumonia and LPS-treated WI-38 cells
compared with their controls. Silencing of H19 or miR-140-5p mimics facilitated cell
viability, whereas repressed apoptosis and reduced content of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in
LPS-induced WI-38 cells. H19 targeted miR-140-5p and it inversely regulated miR-140-
5p expression. MiR-140-5p targeted TLR4 and it inversely regulated TLR4 expression.
H19 positively regulated TLR4 expression. Moreover, inhibition of miR-140-5p or overexpression
of TLR4 reversed the effects of H19 silencing on cell viability, inflammation,
and apoptosis in LPS-induced WI-38 cells.

Conclusion:

Silencing of H19 inhibited apoptosis and inflammation by miR-140-
5p/TLR4 pathway in LPS-induced WI-38 cells.
Effects of Long-term Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors on Systemic Arterial
Stiffness and Pulse Wave Velocity
Authors: Kutluana Ufuk , Kutluana Ecem , Alpua Mehmet , Özen Mert
Published: April 2022

Background and aims:

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most widely prescribed agents. Whereas PPIs are widely regarded as harmlesss, long-term use of PPIs (LTUPPI) can have the potential to increase the risk of developing cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a good indicator of arterial stiffness. There are several studies showing a relationship between LTUPPI and CVD. However, the association with LTUPPI and PWV or arterial stiffness has not been reported.

Patients and methods:

Patients (n=64) with LTUPPI and controls (n=91) were included. PWV, glucose, creatinine, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and magnesium levels were measured.

Main results:

In the LTUPPI group, PWV was greater than in controls (9.08±2.04 vs 7.77±1.52 m/s, respectively, p=0.01); 34.4% of patients and 8.8% of controls had PWV levels <10 m/s (p=0.000). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age (p<0.001) and LTUPPI (p=0.024) were predictors of elevated PWV.

Conclusions:

PWV values are increased in patients with LTUPPI compared with controls independently of conventional CV risk factors. Measurement of PWV and other arterial stiffness parameters in cases with LTUPPI may be useful to predict possible CVD. Studies with greater numbers are needed to confirm these findings.
Association of Serum MMP-9 Level and Lung Function in New Pulmonary
Tuberculosis Case
Authors: Maranatha Daniel , Ambarwati Devi
Published: April 2022

Background:

Histopathological abnormalities of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) include caseous granuloma formation, tissue damage, and cavity formation, all of which could lead to per-manent changes in the pulmonary anatomy. In pulmonary TB, an increase in serum Matrix Metallo-proteinase (MMP)-9 correlates with disease severity and worse prognosis. This study aims to ana-lyze the association between serum MMP-9 levels and the values of FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study involving patients with pulmonary tuberculosis was conducted at the Tuberculosis Outpatient Clinic, Dr. Soetomo Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia. Spirome-try and serum MMP-9 levels were examined in new pulmonary TB patients prior to anti-tuberculosis therapy. The relationship between serum MMP-9 levels and results of spirometry ex-amination was then analyzed.

Results:

There were 44 new pulmonary TB cases with a mean age of 37.90 ± 15.15 years. The pa-tients who experienced symptoms in <1 month were 20.5%, ≥ 1 month were 59.1%, and ≥ 2 months were 20.4%. The mean MMP-9 serum level was 11.27 ± 5.47 ng/ml. Spirometry results were: FVC 1.83 ± 0.69 L, FVC predicted 56.24 ± 18.74%, FEV1 1.71 ± 0.72 L/sec, FEV1 predicted 60.85 ± 21.30%, and FEV1/FVC 104.16 ± 17.45%. In pulmonary TB patients with symptoms experienced in <1 month, a significant relationship between MMP-9 and FVC levels was found with r = -0.839 (p = 0.005).

Conclusion:

There is a correlation between serum MMP-9 level and restrictive pulmonary impair-ment in new pulmonary TB cases with symptoms experienced in <1 month.
Effects of Punica granatum Fruit (a Super Food) Juice on Human Health
Authors: D'Angelo Stefania , Ferrara Luigi , Joksimovic Marko
Published: April 2022

Background:

One of the oldest known edible fruits, the pomegranate (Punica granatum
L.), is now widely consumed worldwide. Its fruits and seed are rich in many bioactive
compounds, such as polyphenols, and the scientific interest in this plant has been constantly
growing in recent years.

Introduction:

Pomegranate fruit and its juice have been shown to have health benefits relating to
their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They are used in alternative medicine as
adaptogens and ergogens, protecting against many neurological, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal,
liver, and skin disorders.

Methods:

Given the amount of evidence, this narrative review does not seek to supply a comprehensive
summary of all study findings but rather focuses on human clinical trials related to the
last five years. In this regard, we have performed a check in MEDLINE, and clinical trials presented
in this time are summarized.

Result:

Pomegranate consumption as a table fruit or juice, which is high in polyphenols, is thus
recommended in human diet for its health benefits.The consumption of pomegranate fruit symbolizes
a promising therapeutic approach to avert many chronic syndromes.

Conclusion:

The findings highlight the need for bigger, more thoroughly planned human clinical
trials to continue research into the potential particular effects of pomegranate fruit, as well as to
determine the ideal dose and duration of pomegranate juice supplementation.
ACEi/ ARB and Deaths of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Kumar Anoop , Azad Gulam Navi
Published: April 2022

The practice of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers
(ACEi/ARB) in COVID-19 hypertensive patients is still an open question for clinicians to answer.
The present study was conducted to find out the association between the use of ACEI/ARB and the
mortality rate of COVID-19 patients. The search was conducted from December 2019 to October
2020 in PubMed to identify relevant published studies. RevMan 5 was used for the analysis of the
data. The random-effect model was used to calculate the odds ratio. In total, 07 studies were found
to be appropriate, reporting a total of 1,566 subjects. The odds ratio was found to be 0.86 [0.41,
1.81], indicating no association between ACEI/ARB and the mortality rate of COVID-19 patients.
In conclusion, we may suggest continuing the use of ACEi/ARB in COVID-19 patients till further
pieces of evidence are generated.
Structure-Based Discovery of Potent Staphylococcus aureus Thymidylate Kinase Inhibitors by Virtual Screening
Authors: Ul-Haq Zaheer , Qureshi Bakhtawer , Khalil Ruqaiya , Saeed Maria , Nur-e-Alam Mohammad , Ahmed Sarfaraz
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Multidrug-resistant bacteria are rapidly increasing worldwide, increasing antibiotic resistance. The exploitation, misuse, overuse, and decrease of the therapeutic potential of currently available antibiotics have resulted in the development of resistance against bacteria. As the most common bacterial pathogen in humans, Staphylococcus aureus can cause many adverse health effects. In fighting multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, scientists have identified an extremely relevant target - SaTMPK. SaTMPK is essential for DNA synthesis, which, in turn, is necessary for the replication and cell division of bacteria.

Objective:

To perform multi-stage screening using the ZINC database, followed by molecular docking, ADMET profiling, molecular dynamics simulations, and energy calculations.

Methods:

Based on the similar pharmacophoric characteristics of existing SaTMPK crystal structures, a model of interaction-based pharmacophores was developed. We then performed molecular docking studies on the positive hits obtained from the pharmacophore screening. Compounds that exhibited good molecular interactions within the SaTMPK binding sites were further evaluated using in-silico ADMET profiling.

Results:

In a multi-stage screening campaign, three compounds were shortlisted that exhibited physicochemical characteristics suitable for human administration.

Conclusion:

The findings from this study should contribute to in vitro and in vivo studies for clinical applications.
Phenolic Content and Scavenging Activity in Moringa oleifera Lam. with
Two Types of Leaf Color
Authors: Radice Silvia , Arena Miriam Elisabet , Castro Federico Gómez , Giordani Edgardo
Published: April 2022

Background:

Moringa plants (Moringa oleifera Lam.) are mostly commercially propagated by seeds, and consequently the seedling populations show a high level of morphological diversity due to segregation. In particular, differences in leaf color can be commonly observed. The main objective of this work was to characterize the leaf color of different moringa plants and successively, relate them to the leaf content of phenols, among which are some flavonoids, and to the scavenging activity on DPPH radicals of leaf extracts.

Methods:

Red and green leaf petiol plants (three plants each one) were randomly chosen among a plot of 50 potted seed plants of 3-year-old and 2 m high, growing in the city of Morón (Argentina) (34º 64’ 62.61'' SL; 58º 62' 09.69'' WL). Leaves were harvested in April and were taken from the basal, medial, and apical parts of the plant stem (3 leaves per section), and consecutively each leaf was also subdivided into basal, medial and apical sections. Leaf color, total phenol content, individual phenol composition and scavenging activity of DDPH radicals were determined.

Results:

Petiole and leaflet color were significantly different for a* and b* values, as a consequence, ΔE* was -0.12 and 0.27 between the red leaf plants, but higher (-3.09) between the red and green type leaves. Interestingly, the leaflets of the red leaf type had more green and yellow dyes than those of the green leaf type. Phenol content and the scavenging activity of DPPH radicals were significantly highest in red plant leaves (10.9 mg tannic acid and 45.6 %, respectively) than in green plant leaves (9.1 mg tannic acid and 31.1 %, respectively). Red leaf type had the smallest amounts of rutin and naringenin contents, which were not present in the green leaf type. Nevertheless, the green leaf type showed more catechin hydrate content than the red leaf type.

Conclusion:

total phenol content and antioxidant activity are modified with sampling and with the leaf color, so these factors must be considered as well as the selection of red leaf plants.
Incorporating Insulin Growth Factor-1 into Regenerative and Personalized
Medicine for Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gan Quan Fu , Lim Yi Ting , Foo Chai Nien , Yu Chye Wah , Woon Choy Ker , Cheong Soon Keng , Leong Pooi Pooi
Published: April 2022

Background:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the world’s leading causes of increased
morbidity and mortality. Current interventions for CVD, including percutaneous transluminal coronary
angioplasty (PTCA) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), carry certain risks and complications,
which may also affect the patient’s quality of life. It is important to minimize those risks and complications
while speeding up the recovery. Insulin Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) is a growth factor responsible for
cellular migration, proliferation, differentiation, and angiogenesis, which supports cardiovascular regeneration.

Methods:

In light of the current trend of regenerative medicine, the present review aims to pool data relating
to the incorporation of IGF-1 in regenerative medicine and provide input on the current research gaps
and concerns arising on translating this approach from benchwork into clinical settings.

Results:

Using the keywords IGF-1 ‘OR’ Insulin Growth Factor 1 ‘AND’ Mesenchymal Stem Cells
‘AND’ Tissue Healing from 2009 to 2020, we identified 160 and 52 from Medline and PubMed, screening
out 202 articles due to non-fulfilment of the inclusion criteria.

Conclusion:

Incorporating IGF-1 into regenerative and personalized medicine may be promising for
treating CVD; however, the concerns include the role of IGF-1 in inducing cancer growth and its ability
to migrate to the specific site of injury, especially for those who present with multiple pathologies should
be addressed prior to its translation from bench work into clinical settings.
Inflammasomes as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular
Disease
Authors: Wang Ping , Ma Jun , Zhang Ru
Published: April 2022

Recent studies have shown that interleukin 1β monoclonal antibody improves the prognosis
of patients with coronary artery disease independently of lipid levels, providing the first
evidence of the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory treatment for atherosclerotic disease. However,
there is still a significant risk of residual inflammation with interleukin 1β monoclonal antibody
therapy alone. Activation of the inflammasome, an intracellular protein complex composed
of pattern recognition receptors and other inflammatory molecules, is a critical step in the
development of the inflammatory response, and targeting the inflammasome to reduce residual
inflammation has emerged as a new idea in the anti-inflammatory treatment of atherosclerotic
disease. This review discusses the role and mechanisms of inflammasomes in atherosclerotic disease
and lists drugs that are currently thought to potentially treat atherosclerosis through antiinflammasomes,
hoping to provide insight into the development of new anti-inflammatory therapies
for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic disease.
Safety and Effectiveness of Compounded Galenic Cholic Acid for Bile Acid Synthesis Disorder: A Case Report
Authors: Zanon Davide , Burlo Francesca , Scaramuzza Gaia , Maximova Natalia , Matarazzo Lorenza , Maggiore Giuseppe , Barbi Egidio
Published: April 2022

Background:

Bile acid synthesis disorders are rare congenital diseases that can lead to
cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease if left untreated. Cholic acid administration is the only treatment
that can prevent patients from fatal outcomes. Since 2013 in Europe, there has been just one
formulation of cholic acid: Orphacol®. It is difficult to administer to infant patients because of its
formulation (capsules) and the need for dose titration depending on the patient’s weight.

Case Presentation:

Two sisters affected by 3-β-hydroxy-Δ-5-C27-steroid dehydrogenase
deficiency showed soon after birth failure to thrive, cholestasis, and fat-soluble vitamin deficiency.
Both biochemical findings and liver biopsies confirmed cholestasis and initial liver damage. Patients
were treated for eight years with a liquid formulation of a cholic acid galenic compound, and then
they started to be treated with capsules of the registered drug. Clinical conditions and biochemical
findings were checked periodically during both therapies.

Conclusion:

Clinical and laboratory data showed no differences between the cholic acid galenic
compound and the registered drug in terms of efficacy and safety. Furthermore, the galenic
compound showed benefits of more manageable dose titration, easier intake due to its liquid
formulation, and lower costs than commercial cholic acid capsules.
Computational Pathways Analysis and Personalized Medicine in
HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Bitto Alessandra , Lui Maria , Giosa Domenico , Romeo Orazio
Published: April 2022

Background:

The heterogeneity of some diseases, such as cancer, makes the decisions on
therapeutic strategy very challenging. In this context, pathway analysis can support the identification
of the best treatment and indeed prevent the issues arising from the trial and error process, in terms of
best overall efficacy and lowest toxicity, ultimately saving time and resources. In a pathway, each gene
is represented by a node and the pathway analysis can be performed using algorithms that interpolate
data from different sources (i.e. sequencing, microarray, drug efficacy and interactions).

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of erbb2 amplification on HER2- positive
breast cancer and to predict, with a pathway based computational approach, the efficacy of a therapy
with Trastuzumab and Palbociclib, alone or in combination.

Methods:

One of the available and most integrated algorithms is PHENSIM that was used in this
study to evaluate the gene dysregulations caused by the erbb2 amplification on its related pathways
and the effects of Trastuzumab and Palbociclib on these deregulations. The effects have been estimated
considering the drugs alone or in a combination therapy.

Results:

A reduction of the number of pro-proliferative signals has been observed for both drugs alone
or in combination. Regarding genes involved in MAPK signaling pathway, a total of 69 nodes were
activated by the erbb2 mutation. A simulated treatment with Palbociclib reduced the number of activated
genes down to 60, while with Trastuzumab the activated nodes were only 53. The combined
therapy revealed an intriguing result providing a significant and remarkable reduction of the activated
genes from 69 to 33.

Conclusion:

These results let us hypothesize that there could be an increased efficacy giving the combination
therapy to subjects with HER2 positive breast cancer. Finally, pathway analysis could be specifically
used to design clinical trials predicting the efficacy of combination therapies or untested
drugs on a specific disease.
Kinetic and Mechanistic Study of Oxidative Degradation and Detoxification
of Fast Yellow Azo Dye Using Surfactant Assisted Ir-Ni Bimetallic
Nanocatalyst
Authors: Shikha  , Goel Anjali
Published: April 2022

Aim:

Catalytic degradation of azo dye.

Background:

Azo dyes are toxic agents and pollutants and the degradation of these dyes has an important application in the treatment of textile industry wastes. Catalytic decolorization of fast yellow dye by hexacyanoferrate (III), abbreviated as HCF(III) using polyvinylpyrrolidone abbreviated as PVP stabilized Ir-Ni bimetallic nanocrystals has been evaluated by kinetic spectrophotometric method at 440nm wavelength of the reaction mixture.

Methods:

The impact of various operational factors such as fast yellow dye abbreviated as [FY], oxidant [HCF(III)] ions, promoter iridium-nickel bimetallic nanoparticles abbreviated as [(Ir-Ni)] BMNPs, and solution pH on the rate of the reaction have been examined.

Results:

The results represent that the reaction follows first -order kinetics model with respect to [oxidant] at optimum pH 8 and fix temperature 40±0.1◦C. Thermodynamic parameters such as activation energy (Ea), enthalpy (ΔH#), entropy (ΔS#), frequency factor (A), and free energy of activation (ΔF#) have been evaluated by examining the reaction rate at four temperatures i.e. 40⁰C, 45⁰C, 50⁰C, and 55⁰C. On the basis of experimental outcomes, an appropriate mechanism involving complex formation has been proposed.

Conclusion:

Analytical techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, and LCMS of degraded products represent the formation of easier and less harmful compounds.
Efecto de la altitud, pendiente y exposición geográfica en la distribución de helechos arborescentes
Authors: Antúnez Pablo , López-Serrano Pablito Marcelo , González-Adame Gabriel , Rubio Camacho Ernesto Alonso , Mendoza-Díaz María Magdalena
Published: April 2022

Antecedentes y Objetivos: El conocimiento de los rasgos topográficos de un sitio es importante para comprender la diversidad local y monitorear la respuesta de las plantas de alto interés de conservación al cambio climático o al cambio de uso de suelo. El objetivo de este trabajo fue examinar el patrón de distribución de cuatro especies de helechos arborescentes en función de la altitud, la exposición y la pendiente a lo largo de un continuo altitudinal.Métodos: Se estudió el efecto de la altitud, pendiente y exposición geográfica en la distribución de Alsophila firma, Cyathea bicrenata, Cyathea myosuroides y Sphaeropteris horrida, en La Chinantla, al norte de Oaxaca, México. La hipótesis de homogeneidad de proporciones a los factores topográficos se verificó con la prueba de Chi cuadrada y la magnitud de incidencia mediante funciones polinómicas.Resultados clave: Se observaron diferencias significativas entre las proporciones de cada especie en función de cada variable topográfica. En promedio, la pendiente mostró un índice de importancia 43.48 veces más que la orientación geográfica y 2.50 veces más que la altitud. Se observaron similitudes entre el nicho parcial de Cyathea bicrenata y de Alsophila firma, pero disimilitudes entre Alsophila firma y Cyathea myosuroides. Conclusiones: La distribución de proporciones de los helechos arborescentes a nivel local es discontinua y no uniforme, atribuible a la acción de los factores locales predominantes, principalmente a la topografía. Una topografía heterogénea propicia patrones de distribución más aleatorios.
Visit frequency of Euglossine bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) to mature fruits of Vanilla planifolia (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Lozano Rodríguez Miguel Ángel , Luna Rodríguez Mauricio , Pech Canché Juan Manuel , Menchaca García Rebeca Alicia , Cerdán Cabrera Carlos Roberto
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims: Visitation and fragrance collection in fruits of the genus Vanilla by Euglossine bees (Eulaema spp.) have previously been documented. However, in Vanilla planifolia, the most commonly cultivated species, this behavior has not yet been recorded. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify Euglossine visitors of the mature fruits of V. planifolia and to identify the frequency of these visitations.
Methods: We held 11 observations set within a month (from March 6 to April 6, 2021) in an experimental Vanilla planifolia plantation with mature fruits of vanilla in Veracruz, Mexico. Each observation lasted for ten hours (from 8:00 to 18:00), representing a total of 110 hours sampling effort. During our observations we collected individuals of Euglossine bees directly from the mature fruits of vanilla to identify them at species level. We also recorded the frequency of Euglossini visits to mature fruits of V. planifolia.
Key results: We identified five species belonging to three Euglossini genera visiting mature fruits of V. planifolia: Euglossa hemichlora, E. variabilis, Eulaema cingulata, E. polychroma, and Exaerete frontalis. The genus Eulaema had 72% of visits to V. planifolia fruits. Visitation frequency was dominated by Eulaema polychroma with 54% of total recorded visits (n=211).
Conclusions: For the first time, Euglossine bees have been registered collecting scents in mature fruits of V. planifolia. Eulaema polychroma was the species with the highest percentage of visits to mature fruits V. planifolia to collect fragrances.
Hungry bone syndrome in delay diagnosed primary hyperparathyroidism with fi brocystic osteitis: A case report
Authors: Pogosian K. A. , Yanevskaya L. G. , Semenova A. N. , Molotkova M. A. , Berkovich G. V. , Ryzhkova D. V. , Belousova L. V. , Tsoi U. A.
Published: April 2022

Fibrocystic osteitis is a rare but severe primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) complication. We describe a 66-year-old female presented with fi brocystic osteitis and nephrocalcinosis with eGFR reduction to CKD stage 4 due to primary hyperparathyroidism. Delayed diagnosis of long-term hypercalcemia, high parathyroid hormone level, unsubstituted 25(OH)D defi ciency, and the use of bisphosphonates in high doses caused development of «hungry bones» syndrome in early postoperative period. Severe hypocalcemia required prescription of active and native vitamin D metabolites, oral calcium supplements as well as intravenous calcium. Delay in diagnosis of PHPT with fi brocystic osteitis formation led to lower well-being, reduced quality of life and also provoked sever postoperative hypocalcemia («hungry bone» syndrome).
Endothelial Dysfunction Diagnostic “Platform” in patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Khripun I. A. , Khripun A. V.
Published: April 2022

Objective: to determine the diagnostic signifi cance of endothelial dysfunction (ED) laboratory markers.

Material and methods: we examined 276 men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (age 54.0[49;60] years). Patients underwent general clinical studies, analysis of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism parameters, adipohormones: leptin, resistin, adiponectin. Endothelial function was assessed by ultrasound examination of endothelium-dependent vasodilation (EDVD) of the brachial artery during a test with reactive hyperemia and determination of biochemical parameters of endothelial function — nitric oxide (NO), endothelial synthase NO type3, endothelin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, p- and e-selectins, cadherin, PAI-1, VEGF-1, homocysteine B, C-reactive protein (CRP), osteoprotegerin. To assess the diagnostic signifi cance of the methods and to determine the cut-off , ROC analysis was used.

Results: independent signifi cance in the diagnosis of ED was demonstrated by NO, ICAM-1, resistin (p<0.001), CRP (p=0.006). Th e odds ratio of ED for resistin was 6.97, which is 1.9 times higher than NO and ICAM-1 and 3.7 times higher than CRP. Th e cut-off  for diagnostic of ED are: NO — 97.3 μmol/L, ICAM-1 — 309.4 ng/ml, resistin — 6.32 ng/ml, CRP — 6.25 mg/L.

Conclusion: the diagnostic platform for determining ED, along with the ultrasound assessment of EDVD, should include the analysis of its biochemical markers: NO, ICAM-1, resistin, CRP. Resistin is an independent, high-precision marker of ED, which is the pathogenetic link between endothelial dysfunction and adipose tissue dysmetabolism.
Abnormal gut microbiota and impaired incretin effect as a cause of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Demidova T. Y. , Lobanova K. G. , Korotkova T. N. , Kharchilava L. D.
Published: April 2022

It has now been established that the intestinal microbiota (CM) is one of the 11 links in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). Th e fact is that when the composition of BM is disrupted and the concentration of its active metabolites changes, the processes of synthesis and secretion of incretin hormones are disrupted, the homeostasis of carbohydrates and fats in the body is disrupted, the processes of central regulation of appetite change, chronic infl ammation and insulin resistance of peripheral tissues develop. Th is review discusses possible ways of impairing the synthesis of incretin hormones and the incretin eff ect in patients with T2DM through the prism of BM and its active metabolites, and discusses possible ways of correcting the altered composition of BM with incretin drugs.A systematic literature search was carried out using the Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science databases.
Self-monitoring of blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine
Authors: Zakiev V. D. , Mustafina V. R.
Published: April 2022

According to clinical guidelines self-monitoring of blood glucose is a part of the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, self-monitoring of glycemia is associated with signifi cant costs. Th at’s why the issue if there is a possibility to decrease the use of self-monitoring of blood glucose is actual. Since the United Kingdom Prospective Study (UKPDS) showed that every 1% decrease in glycated hemoglobin leads to a 37% decrease in the risk of microvascular complications and 14% decrease in the risk of macrovascular complications as well as it leads to a decrease in mortality, the article mainly examined the eff ect of selfmonitoring on the level of glycated hemoglobin in various clinical situations.
Personalized molecular visualization and radiotheranostics of adrenal tumors
Authors: Omelchuk D. D. , Degtyarev M. V. , Rumyantsev P. O.
Published: April 2022

Th e diagnosis of adrenal tumors has improved signifi cantly over the past decades thanks to laboratory research and anatomical imaging techniques. In some cases, these methods make it possible to distinguish a benign tumor from a malignant one, and in combination with invasive methods, the accuracy of such diagnostics varies from 80 to 100%. However, in cases of pheochromocytoma, this invasive intervention can induce a hypertensive crisis. Hybrid molecular imaging techniques such as single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET), coupled with CT or MRI, have come to the rescue. Molecular imaging techniques are non-invasive and safe for patients, and the information obtained allows you to more accurately determine the optimal treatment tactics. Purpose: in our review, we will try to cover all modern and promising methods of molecular imaging of adrenal formations and radionuclide therapy, which constitute a new trend in the development of nuclear medicine in the world - radiotheranostics (radionuclide therapy based on radionuclide diagnostics). Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the literature obtained from the open databases Scopus and Pubmed describing the latest methods of radiotherapy of adrenal tumors. We then classifi ed the findings based on mechanism of action, point of application, and relevance of radioactive tracers, comparing their effectiveness and availability.
Serum TSH level in hospitalized patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19
Authors: Mikhailova A. A. , Lagutina D. I. , Golovatuk K. A. , Karonova T. L. , Andreeva A. T. , Vasilieva E. Yu , Grineva E. N.
Published: April 2022

Objective: to measure the serum TSH level in hospitalized patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19.

Material and methods: this was a retrospective study at Almazov National Medical Research Centre enrolled 133 hospitalized COVID-19 patients without known thyroid disorders. Clinical data, biochemical parameters (TSH, 25(OH)D, C-reactive protein, Lactate dehydrogenase and Ferritin), fi ndings of chest computed tomography (CT) imaging as well as obtained corticosteroids therapy were analyzed.

Results: the median TSH level at the 1st-2nd day of hospitalization and at the 9-10th day was 1,15 mIU/L [0, 76; 1, 8] and 1,04 mIU/L [0,7; 1,78] respectively. Th e initial level of TSH <0,4 mIU/L was found in four patients, while by the 9-10th day of hospitalization their number doubled and reached 9 (11,7%). Furthermore, by the 9-10th day of hospitalization the TSH level more than 4,5 mIU/L was detected in four patients (4,2%). Th us, 13 out of 77 patients had the serum TSH level outside the reference range by the 9-10th day of hospitalization.

Conclusions: in case of alteration in the serum TSH level it is necessary to take into account the personal history of thyroid disorders. Th e level of thyroid hormones and autoimmune markers as well as thyroid ultrasound results may be useful in clinical interpretation of thyroidal insults during and aft er COVID-19. Th e hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis may also be aff ected by drugs used to treat COVID-19.
Pheochromocytoma and pregnancy
Authors: Gazizova G. R. , Valeeva F. V. , Karimullina S. R.
Published: April 2022

A clinical case of a pregnant patient with gestational arterial hypertension resulting from pheochromocytoma is presented. Th e article presents an algorithm for diff erential search for the cause of gestational arterial hypertension, clinical and laboratory data and therapeutic measures provided to the patient, on the basis of which endocrinologists together with obstetricians and gynecologists can determine the tactics of pregnancy and delivery of women with hormone-active adrenal tumors.
Prostate cancer: relationship with depression and suicidal thoughts
Authors: Keln A. A. , Alifov D. G. , Zvezda S. A. , Zasorina M. A.
Published: April 2022

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies among men, accounting for 19% of malignant neoplasms and the third leading cause of cancer-related death. The suicide rate among men around the world has increased over the past decade. Additionally, suicide rates are higher among cancer patients, including those with prostate cancer, compared to the general population. The article aimed to make review the current literature and determine the correlation between prostate cancer, depression, and suicidal thoughts.