bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the effect of Artemisia Annua L. and Moringa Oleifera Lam. on CD4 count and viral load among PLWH on HAART at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Twinomujuni Silvano S. , Atukunda Esther C , Mukonzo Jackson K. , Nicholas Musinguzi , Roelofsen Felicitas , Ogwang Patrick E.
Published: October 2022

Background
Initiation of HAART among people living with HIV (PLWH) having a CD4 count ≤ 350cells/µl, produces poor immunological recovery, putting them at a high risk of opportunistic infections. Artemisia annua and Moringa oleifera are among the herbs commonly consumed by PLWH on HAART to boost their immunity, but their clinical benefits and potential interactions with ARVs remain unknown. This study investigated the effect of A.annua and M.oleifera on CD4 count, viral load, and other clinical and haematological indices among PLWH on HAART at an HIV clinic in Uganda.
Methods
282 HIV-positive participants on HAART with a CD4 count ≤ 350cells/µl were randomized in a double-blind clinical trial to receive daily, in addition to their routine standard of care; 1) A.annua leaf powder, 2) A.annua plus M.oleifera, and 3) routine standard of care only. Our primary outcome was change in the CD4 count at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included change in viral load, complete blood count, renal function tests, liver function tests, ARV plasma levels, and quality of life (QoL). Participants were followed up for a year and outcomes were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months.
Results
At 12 months of patient follow-up, administration of A.annua + M.orifera plus routine standard of care produced an absolute mean CD4 increment of 105.06 cells/µl, (P < 0.001), while administration of A.annua plus routine standard of care registered an absolute mean CD4 increment of 60.84 cells/µl, (P = 0.001) compared to the control group. The viral load reduced significantly (P = 0.022) for participants on the A.annua + M.orifera compared to those receiving standard of care only. There were significant differences in White blood cell count (P = 0.03), platelet count (P = 0.025), perceived QoL (P < 001) among participants who received A.annua + M.oleifera compared to those who received standard of care only. There were no significant differences in the other secondary outcomes.
Conclusion
A combination of A.annua and M.oleifera leaf powders taken once a day together with the routine standard of care produced significant improvement in CD4 count, viral load suppression, WBCs, platelets, and quality of life among individuals on HAART.
Evaluation of blood indexes in rats under natural environment of chronic high altitude hypotension and hypoxia
Authors: Yan Chunlong , Tian Dengfeng , Zhang Chenhong , Zhang Qiang , Sun Yanqiu
Published: October 2022

Background
The plateau area has the environmental characteristics of low pressure and hypoxia, and the special geographical environmental characteristics have an impact on multiple systems of the body. The purpose of this study was to explore the changes in blood indicators of rats in a natural environment of low pressure and hypoxia on the plateau.
Methods
Twenty male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats aged 4 weeks were selected and transported to Chengdu area (approximately 450 m above sea level, 10 rats) and Yushu area (approximately 3800 m above sea level,10 rats) in two groups. They were defined as plain group and plateau group, respectively. They were raised to 28 weeks of age, and then transported to the plateau medical laboratory of Qinghai University. Blood index data were measured and the data of the two groups were statistically analyzed.
Results
1. RBC in plateau group was higher than that in plain group, but there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05),Compared with the plain group, HGB, MCV, MCH, MCHC and RDW in the plateau group were significantly higher (P < 0.05).2. Compared with the plain group, WBC, LYMP, EO, LYMP% and EO% in the plateau group decreased significantly (P < 0.05), and ANC% increased significantly (P < 0.05), The ANC, MONO and BASO in the plateau group were lower than those in the plain group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05), The MONO% and BASO% in the plateau group were higher than those in the plain group, and the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). 3. In the platelet index, compared with the plain group, PLT in the plateau group was significantly reduced (P < 0.05), PDW, MRV, P-LCR were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and PCT in the plateau group was lower than that in the plain group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). 4. In blood biochemical indicators, compared with the plain group, AST, TBIL, IBIL, LDH in the plateau group decreased significantly (P < 0.05), CK in the plateau group increased significantly (P < 0.05), ALT, DBIL, Cr, TC in the plateau group decreased, with no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05), and ALT/AST, ALP in the plateau group increased, with no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
1. The indexes related to red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and some biochemical indexes in the blood of rats at high altitude have changed. 2. Under the high altitude low pressure and hypoxia environment, the oxygen carrying capacity of SD rats is improved, the resistance to disease may be reduced, the coagulation and hemostasis functions may be affected, and there is a risk of bleeding. The liver function, renal function, heart function and skeletal muscle energy metabolism may be affected. 3. This study can provide an experimental basis for the research on the pathogenesis of high altitude diseases from the perspective of blood.
Isolation and exploration of potential probiotic attributes of a novel isolate Pedicoccus acidilactici CITKHZ7 obtained from traditional fermented fish paste Hentak
Authors: Basumatary Zircon , Saha Sourav , Barman Kailash Kr. , Chaudhuri Surabhi , Maiti Sucharita Sen , Nayak Prakash Kumar
Published: October 2022

In vitro probiotic and antibacterial activity was demonstrated by a novel isolate CITKHZ7 identified as Pediococcus acidilactici. It exhibited adequate resistance against the severe circumstance of gastrointestinal tract (GI), surviving at low acidic pH (pH 2.0) for 5hr. The initial viable cell population of isolate CITKHZ7 was reduced by 2.84% and 4.48% by artificial gastric juice and simulated intestinal fluid respectively. Enzyme lysozyme (100 mg/ml) and bile salt (0.3%) both reduced vitality by 13.92% and 10.35% within 5hr. The isolate did not show any significant bile salt deconjugation activity. The cell surface hydrophobicity of 45.94% was highest against hydrocarbon chloroform and the isolate cell surface was seen to be electrophilic in nature. In this research study, 51% autoaggregation was observed in the isolate CITKHZ7 within 5hr. Both of these properties are required for attachment to epithelial cells and colonisation of the host. The in-vitro adhesion of the CITKHZ7 was carried out with human epithelial carcinoma cell line Caco-2.
Developmental origins of psycho-cardiometabolic multimorbidity in adolescence and their underlying pathways through methylation markers: A two cohort’s study
Authors: Choudhary Priyanka , Ronkainen Justiina , Carson Jennie , Karhunen Ville , Lin Ashleigh , Melton Phillip E. , Jarvelin Marjo-Riitta , Miettunen Jouko , Huang Rae-Chi , Sebert Sylvain
Published: October 2022

Understanding the biological mechanisms behind multimorbidity patterns in adolescence is important as they may act as intermediary risk factor for long-term health. We aimed to explore relationship between prenatal exposures and adolescent’s psycho-cardiometabolic intermediary traits mediated through epigenetic biomarkers, using structural equation modelling (SEM). We used data from mother-child dyads from pregnancy and adolescents at 16–17 years from two prospective cohorts: Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 (NFBC1986) and Raine Study from Australia. Factor analysis was applied to generate two different latent factor structures: a) prenatal exposures and b) adolescence psycho-cardiometabolic intermediary traits. Furthermore, three types of epigenetic biomarkers were included: 1) DNA methylation score for maternal smoking during pregnancy (DNAmMSS), 2) DNAm age estimate PhenoAge and 3) DNAm estimate for telomere length (DNAmTL). We observed similar factor structure was observed between both cohorts yielding three prenatal factors BMI (Body Mass Index), SOP (Socio-Obstetric-Profile) and Lifestyle, and four adolescent factors: Anthropometric, Insulin-Triglycerides, Blood Pressure and Mental health. In the SEM pathways, stronger direct effects of F1prenatal-BMI (NFBC1986 = ß: 0.27; Raine = ß: 0.39) and F2prenatal-SOP (ß: -0.11) factors were observed on adolescent psycho-cardiometabolic multimorbidity. The indirect effect of the prenatal latent factors through epigenetic markers was mediated from DNAmTL and DNAmMSS going through PhenoAge (NFBC1986 = ß: 0.04; Raine = ß: 0.14), consistently in both cohorts (P < 0.001). The present study exemplifies an evidence-based approach validated in two birth cohorts to demonstrate consistent shared influences of prenatal exposures mediated through epigenetic markers in the offspring on their psycho-cardiometabolic multimorbidity in adolescence.
Protective effect of sex steroid hormones on morphological and cellular outcomes after neonatal hypoxia-ischemia: A meta-analysis of preclinical studies
Authors: Durán-Carabali LE , Silva JL Da , Colucci ACM , Netto CA , De Fraga LS
Published: October 2022

Sex steroid hormones play an important role in fetal development, brain functioning and neuronal protection. Growing evidence highlights positive effects of these hormones against brain damages induced by neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI). This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to verify the efficacy of sex steroid hormones to prevent HI-induced brain damage in rodent models. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO and a total of 22 articles were included. Moderate to large effects were observed in HI animals treated with sex steroid hormones in reducing cerebral infarction size and cell death, increasing neuronal survival and mitigating neuroinflammatory responses and astrocyte reactivity. A small effect was evidenced for cognitive function, and there was no significant effect for motor function. In summary, published rodent data suggest that sex steroid hormones such as progesterone and 17β estradiol improve morphological and cellular outcomes following neonatal HI. Additional research is paramount to examine neurological function during neonatal HI recovery.
Examining The Levels Of Zenophobia And Global Social Responsibility Of Health Sciences Students: A Cross-Sectional Study İn The Case Of Konya
Authors: KUCUKSEN Kubra , Arat Seyma
Published: October 2022

One of the most important global problems of the century we are living in is the problem of “how to live together despite differences?”. Although geographical boundaries lost their importance with the globalization process, the walls that people created against the “other” continue to exist in a formidable way. In the present study, the relationship between xenophobia and global social responsibility in healthcare professional candidates was investigated. The study also examined the effects of demographic variables, receiving courses on immigration and immigrants, and the presence of international students in their classes on xenophobia and global social responsibility attitude. A total of 354 university students who were studying in the field of healthcare answered the Xenophobia Scale (ZS), the Global Social Responsibility Scale (CSRS), and the questionnaire that consisted of 7 closed-ended questions. As the global social responsibility levels of the students increased, their xenophobia levels decreased. Being together with international students reduced the level of xenophobia. The level of xenophobia of seniors was found to be lower. Also, the level of xenophobia was lower for those who received courses on immigration. Women had a higher level of Global Social Responsibility.
Effect of road disturbance on ant diversity in a sector of the Central Biocenic Corridor located in the center of Arid diagonal of Argentina
Authors: Amatta Emilce , Andino Natalia , Calcaterra Luis A. , Giannoni Stella M.
Published: October 2022

Linear infrastructures such as roads are among the most frequent generators of anthropogenic disturbances. Due to the expensive area that is affected along them, these great infrastructures represent a major conservation concern worldwide. Ants are an important component of natural ecosystems and are considered to be very sensitive to disturbance. The National Road Nº 150 is an important road of South America that forms part of the Central Bioceanic Corridor which will connect Brazil with Chile. In its trajectory, it crosses the Ischigualasto Provincial Park in Argentina. In order to evaluate the effects of this road on biodiversity in roadsides that run across this protected area, we compared species and functional group diversity of ants collected using pitfall traps between disturbed and undisturbed sites. In addition, we analyzed whether habitat variables, such as plant cover, gravel cover and soil hardness, explain ant species and functional group abundance in both site types. Twenty-one and 17 ant species were caught in disturbed and undisturbed sites, respectively. Roadside contained relatively more exclusives and rare species, while undisturbed sites harbored more common and dominant species. Hot climate specialists were more abundant at disturbed sites, whereas Opportunists at undisturbed sites. Ant species abundance seems to be positively influenced by gravel cover on roadside. In the present context of land use change, roadside could have an important function as reservoir and corridor for some ant species, and thus, plays a valuable role in the conservation of ant diversity in arid ecosystems.
Extracellular vesicles promote lipid raft formation in human microglia through TLR4, P2X4R, and αVβ3/αVβ5 signaling pathways
Authors: Pivoriūnas Augustas
Published: October 2022

Targeting of disease-associated microglia represents a promising therapeutic approach that can be used for the prevention or slowing down neurodegeneration. In this regard, the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) represents a promising therapeutic approach. However, the molecular mechanisms by which EVs regulate microglial responses remain poorly understood. In the present study, we used EVs derived from human oral mucosa stem cells (OMSCs) to investigate the effects on the lipid raft formation and the phagocytic response of human microglial cells. Lipid raft labeling with fluorescent cholera toxin subunit B conjugates revealed that both EVs and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) by more than 2 times increased lipid raft formation in human microglia. By contrast, combined treatment with LPS and EVs significantly decreased lipid raft formation indicating possible interference of EVs with the process of LPS-induced lipid raft formation. Specific inhibition of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) with anti-TLR4 antibody as well as inhibition of purinergic P2X4 receptor (P2X4R) with selective antagonist 5-BDBD inhibited EVs- and LPS-induced lipid raft formation. Selective blockage of αvβ3/ αvβ5 integrins with cilengitide suppressed EV- and LPS-induced lipid raft formation in microglia. Furthermore, inhibition of TLR4 and P2X4R prevented EV-induced phagocytic activity of human microglial cells.
We demonstrate that EVs induce lipid raft formation in human microglia through interaction with TLR4, P2X4R, and αVβ3/αVβ5 signaling pathways. Our results provide new insights about the molecular mechanisms regulating EV/microglia interactions and could be used for the development of new therapeutic strategies against neurological disorders.
Fitnesztermi edzők egészségmagatartásának kérdései – pilot study
Authors: Terényi Anikó , Patakiné Bősze Júlia
Published: October 2022

A mozgásszegény életmód egyre jellemzőbb az utóbbi évtizedekben, mellyel párhuzamosan a civilizációs betegségek növekvő aránya is megfigyelhető. Mindezek okán kiemelt figyelmet kell fordítani az egészségünk megőrzésére, dominánsan a fizikai aktvitás növelésére. Ezek egy része fitnesztermekben zajlik, ahol különböző képzettségű oktatókkal, edzőkkel találkozhatunk. Kutatásunk célja volt feltárni a fitnesztermek által foglakoztatott edzők egészségmagatartását, illetve megtudni, hogy a kutatásban részt vevő edzők mennyire gondolják hitelesnek magukat, valamint felmérni jóllétük önértékelését, illetve ezek összefüggéseit. Az egészségmagatartásra vonatkozó területeket saját kérdőívvel vizsgáltuk, melyet a WHO 5 tételes jóllét kérdőívével egészítettünk ki. A 97 értékelhető kitöltő 86%-a nő volt, átlagéletkoruk 36 év. A BMI átlaga 22,4. A válaszadók 77%- a tarthat csoportos órás foglalkozást végzettsége alapján, míg 32%-uk rendelkezik személyi edző végzettséggel (is). Negatívabb várakozásaink ellenére a válaszadók nagyobb része egészséges életmódot folytat, és nem csak a fizikai dimenziókat tartja fontosnak az egészség megítélésében.
Az egészségturizmus és a lassú turizmus kapcsolódási területei
Authors: Szőke Tünde Mónika
Published: October 2022

A két kutatási terület, az egészségturizmus és a lassú mozgalmak, kapcsolódási pontjait tárja fel jelen tanulmány. Az egészségturizmus szerteágazó területei, a nemzetközi felosztása és a hazai, ettől részben eltérő megközelítései folyamatos tudományos diskurzusra adnak lehetőséget. A tanulmányban röviden bemutatásra kerülnek a legfontosabb lassú mozgalmak, valamint az ezekhez kapcsolódó eszközrendszer. Ezt követően az egészségturizmus részei, majd e két terület kapcsolódási pontjai. A lassú mozgalmak és a lassú turizmus kutatása során körvonalazódott, hogy azok a területek, mozgalmak, amelyekre épül ez a réstermék, mind megjelennek az egészségturizmus területei között is. Megalkotásra került egy olyan ábra, amely a két terület összekapcsolódását mutatja. A vizsgált területek jellemzői alapján a fenntarthatóság három kategóriájában is előrelépést jelenthet a két termék összekapcsolása a fejlesztések és a működés kapcsán.
Változások a médiahasználatban a COVID idején
Authors: Prievara Dóra Katalin
Published: October 2022

Bevezetés: Az elmúlt időszakban különösen hangsúlyossá váltak a digitális folyamatok, az internet kínálta lehetőségek, és ezt a helyzetet csak fokozta a koronavírus-járvány megjelenése. Célkitűzések: Jelen kutatás célja a médiahasználat szokások megvizsgálása volt, különös tekintettel a világjárvány alatt időszak tapasztalatainak összevetése a korábbi évek tapasztalataival. A „DATAREPORTAL” elnevezésű oldal elmúlt ötéves jelentése került elemzése, melyben a 16–64 éves korosztály digitális szokásait összegzik. Eredmények: A napi átlagos internetezéssel eltöltött idő évek óta meghaladja a hat óra hosszát, és bár a világjárvány következtében széles körben nőt az internetezéshez köthető feladatok és lehetőségek száma, mégsem növelte meg drasztikus mértékben a napi internetezés mértékét. Ezzel egy időben a közösségi média használata lassú, de folyamatos növekedést mutat. Következtetések: Úgy tűnik, hogy az internetezés elérte a maximális mértékét, hiszen évek óta nem nő hét óra fölé a napi átlag. Ez azonban így is a napjaink egyharmadát jelent, tehát a mértékletes és tudatos használat elsajátítása kulcsfontosságú az egészséges életvitel megtartásában.
Perfusion and diastolic function assessment in patients with microvascular angina according to the single-photon emission computed tomography
Authors: Khachirova Elvira A. , Samoylenko Ludmila E. , Shevchenko Alexey O. , Shevchenko Oleg P.
Published: October 2022

Objective. To study the correlation between quantitative perfusion parameters and the diastolic function in patients with microvascular angina according to the single-photon emission computed tomography with 99mTc. Material and methods. The study included 17 patients, each of whom underwent selective coronary angiography (CAG) and ECG-synchronized C-SPECT/CT of myocardium with 99mTc-technetril at rest and in combination with exercise testing on bicycle ergometer (ergonometer Anaerobic Test). Verification of ischemia was performed using C-SPECT/CT with 99mTc-technetril at rest (r) and with ergonometer Anaerobic Test (s) according to a 2-day protocol. Quantitative perfusion indices (QPI) and DF were assessed by 17 segmental LV model: rExtent/sExtent, area of perfusion impairment (PI); SRS, SSS, severity of NP; rTPD/sTPD, total perfusion deficit; SDS, stress-induced (reversible) ischemia index; iTPD, ischemic perfusion deficit; PFR, peak LV volume filling rate; MFR/3, avg. LV filling rate in the first/3 of diastole; TTPF, time from the beginning of diastole to the peak LV filling level; PFR2, peak LV filling volume rate during the 2nd peak. Results. The present study revealed a diastolic dysfunction in patients with microvascular angina and increased diastolic filling disturbances during myocardial ischemia with exercise. When comparing the perfusion and diastolic function, a direct link between the prevalence and the intensity of perfusion dysfunction at rest and stress-induced ischemia and temporary parameters and inverse correlation - with speed parameters of diastole was revealed. Conclusion. Patients with microvascular angina show signs of left ventricular dysfunction. The conducted correlational analysis revealed the existence of interconnection between perfusion and diastolic function.
The effect of metabolic syndrome on psychological characteristics and quality of life in patients with arterial hypertension
Authors: Smirnova Lyudmila E. , Yakovleva Margarita V. , Murashova Lada A. , Anikin Viktor V.
Published: October 2022

The combined course of arterial hypertension (AH) and metabolic syndrome (MS) leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular complications, type 2 diabetes mellitus and overall mortality. Psychological factors play an important role in the emergence and development of hypertension and MS. Affective mental disorders and psychosocial stress can aggravate the course of this pathology, reducing the quality of life of patients. Purpose of the study. To study the effect of MS on the mental state and quality of life in patients with hypertension based on the results of psychodiagnostic testing. Materials and methods. 120 outpatients were examined. The 1st group (comparison) included 63 patients with AH, the 2nd (main) group included 57 patients with AH and MS. The following scales were used: psychosocial stress scale of L. Rieder et al., Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Abbreviated Multifactor Personality Questionnaire (SMOL), Quality of Life Scale (SF-36). Results. The frequency of psychosocial stress in AH with MS was 93%, and in AH it was 67% (p < 0.001). High stress was 2 times more common in AH patients with MS than in AH patients. Anxiety disorders were detected in 72%, and depressive disorders in 79% of AH patients with MS, which is much more common than in AH patients. Quality of life indicators on a number of scales of physical and mental components of health were lower in AH with MS than in AH. Conclusion. The data obtained indicate a significant deterioration in mental health and quality of life in patients with hypertension on the background of MS.
Physiological mechanisms of action of vitamin D in oral tissues and organs and the possibility of its use in preventive dentistry (literature review)
Authors: Sarkisyan Narine G. , Gaisina Elena F. , Dobrinskaya Maria N. , Pototskaya Arina D.
Published: October 2022

Vitamin D has a variety of effects on oral tissues and organs. Cholecalciferol is involved in the processes of formation of enamel and dentin, metabolism of jaw bone tissue, local immunity and antitumor reactions. The functional features of the vitamin D effects reveal the possibility of dental pathology prevention. Objective. To study the literature data on the effect of vitamin D on oral tissues and organs and the possibility of using vitamin D as a drug in the prevention of dental diseases. Materials and methods. The review and analysis of literary sources was carried out by keywords on the electronic resources of the Scopus, Web of Science, MedLine, The Cochrane Library, RSCI databases. Russian and foreign sources were used. The literature review was conducted between August 2021 and March 2022. Results. Randomized studies prove that receptors for vitamin D (colecalciferol) are found on the surface of almost all cells, which explains the pleiotropic effect of vitamin D on the human body. Colecalciferol is involved in the formation of substitutive dentin in the foci of demineralization. The active metabolite of vitamin D has an antitumor effect on the oral tissues, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action in periodontal disease. Colecalciferol influences osseointegration during implantation, the processes of osteogenesis and osteolysis during orthodontic treatment. Conclusion. Vitamin D has effects on various tissues and organs of the oral cavity, which gives the possibility to include cholecalciferol in clinical guidelines for dental diseases prophylaxis.
Study of polysaccharides of common raspberry shoots and their sorption activity
Authors: Gulyaev Dmitry K. , Belonogova Valentina D. , Rudakova Irina P. , Korotkov Il’ya V.
Published: October 2022

A comparative study of the water-soluble polysaccharide complex and pectin substances of first and second year shoots of common raspberry. Objective - comparative study and sorption activity of polysaccharides of common raspberry shoots. Materials and methods. The samples for the research were collected in a dark coniferous forest on the territory of the Ilyinsky district of Perm Region. The content of polysaccharide fractions was determined by the modified Dreywood anthrone- sulfurous method. A water-soluble polysaccharide complex and pectin substances were sequentially obtained from different parts of the shoots. The sorption activity was determined by the ability of the substances to bind methylene blue, which is a marker for most medical sorbents. The acute toxicity of the obtained polysaccharide fractions was examined according to Prozorovsky V.V. Results. The shoots of the first and second year of common raspberry accumulate more pectin substances than water-soluble polysaccharides. Leaves of raspberry contain more polysaccharides compared to leafless parts. As a result of acute toxicity study, it was found that all studied substances can be classified as low-toxic (LD50>5,000 mg/kg). It was found that water-soluble polysaccharide complex obtained from leafless parts of the shoot of the first and second year shows sorption activity reliably higher than that of the reference preparation (Polyphepan). Sorption activity of pectin substances obtained from leaves of the first and second year shoots also exceeds that of the reference preparation. The highest sorption activity is shown by pectin substances of the second year, and the lowest sorption activity by pectin substances of leafless raspberry shoots. Conclusion. The obtained substances are promising for creating modern sorbents based on polysaccharide fractions of the first and second year shoots of common raspberry. Taking into account the simplicity in harvesting and high sorption activity of polysaccharides of the leafless part of the raspberry shoot, not only leaves but also leafless parts of the shoot should be harvested.
Anti-cancer Activity of New Phosphoramide-functionalized Graphene
Oxides: An Experimental and Theoretical Evaluation
Authors: Gholivand Khodayar , Faraghi Mohammad , Pooyan Mahsa , Babaee Leila Sarmadi , Malekshah Rahime Eshaghi , Pirastehfar Foroogh , Vahabirad Mohammad
Published: October 2022

Background:

Graphene oxide (GO)-based systems are among the drug delivery
systems and have drawn a lot of interest in the field of medicine.

Methods:

In this work, two novel phosphoramides with the formulas of
(NHCHCH2C(CH3)2NHC(CH3)2CH2P(S)(OEt)2 (L1) and (NHCHCH2C(CH3)2 NHC
(CH3)2CH2P (O) (NHC6H5) (OC5H6) (L2) were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic
methods. Then, graphene oxide (GO) was functionalized by L1 and L2. FT-IR,
XRD, FE- SEM/ MAP, and Zeta potential analyses were applied to confirm the synthesis
of phosphoramide-functionalized graphene oxides (GO-L1 and GO-L2). Cytotoxicity of
synthesized compounds was evaluated against breast cancer cell line (SK-BR-3) using
MTT assay. Moreover, the flow cytometry assay was performed to evaluate the cell death
mechanisms.

Results:

The results showed that GO-L1 and GO-L2 had a more inhibitory effect against
cancer cells than that of L1 and L2, and GO-L2 showed the highest cytotoxicity with an IC50
value of 38.13 μg/ml. Quantum calculations were employed to optimize structures. HOMO
and LUMO energy values and physical adsorption of synthesized compounds were obtained
by the DMol3 module in the Material Studio 2017. The docking studies were used to investigate
the binding of L1, L2, GO-L1, and GO-L2 to DNA polymerase IIα.

Conclusion:

Anticancer activity of phosphoramide compounds was increased after attachment
on the GO surface, and the docking studies' results were in good accordance
with the experimental cytotoxicity results.
Effect of Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 Molecule on Coronary Collateral
Development
Authors: Fedai Halil , Tascanov Mustafa Begenc
Published: October 2022

Background:

Collateral arteries provide an alternative source to the myocardium resulting
from ischemia due to occlusive coronary artery disease and may help preserve myocardial
function in the case of coronary artery disease (CAD). Although collateral development is so important,
its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. Till now, no study has investigated the
relationship between Fibroblast growth factor-21(FGF-21) and coronary collateral.

Objective:

This study aims to investigate the pathophysiology of coronary collateral development.

Methods:

In our study, which we planned as a case-control, 60 consecutive patients with ≥90 stenosis
in at least one large coronary artery as a result of coronary angiography (CAG) and 30 patients
with normal coronary angiography were included in the study cross-sectional. Demographic,
echocardiographic and laboratory data were recorded. Coronary collateral circulation was evaluated
using the Rentrop-Cohen method. FGF-21 levels were measured in all individuals.

Results:

In the analysis, no significant difference was observed between the two groups in basic
biochemical parameters other than HDL (p>0.05 for all). FGF-21 level was statistically significantly
higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p: 0.003). Also, the FGF-21 level was
found to be statistically significantly higher in the good collateral circulation group than the poor
(p:0.006). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to predict the
presence of collateral. We found that FGF-21(p=0.006), and C-reactive protein (p=0.020) predicted
the presence of collateral independently.

Conclusion:

Collateral formation and cardiac prognosis are closely related. Our study is the first to
investigate the relationship between collateral formation and FGF-21. Our study showed that the
FGF-21 level is an independent predictor of collateral formation. In addition, there was a significant
difference between bad and good collateral formation regarding FGF-21 levels.
Combined Chronic Oral Methylphenidate and Fluoxetine Treatment
During Adolescence: Effects on Behavior
Authors: Thanos Panayotis K. , Blum Kenneth , McCarthy Madison , Senior Daniela , Watts Samantha , Connor Carly , Hammond Nikki , Hadjiargyrou Michael , Komatsu David , Steiner Heinz
Published: October 2022

Background:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be comorbid with
depression, often leading to the prescription of both methylphenidate (MP) and selective serotonin
reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, such as fluoxetine (FLX). Moreover, these drugs are often
misused as cognitive enhancers. This study examined the effects of chronic oral co-administration of
MP and FLX on depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors.

Methods:

Adolescent rats received daily either water (control), MP, FLX, or the combination of MP
plus FLX in their drinking water over the course of 4 weeks.

Results:

Data analysis shows a decrease in food consumption and body weight for rats exposed to
FLX or the combination of MP and FLX. Sucrose consumption was significantly greater in FLX or
MP+FLX groups compared to controls. FLX-treated rats showed no effect in the elevated plus maze
(EPM; open arm time) and forced swim test (FST; latency to immobility). However, rats treated with
the combination (MP+FLX) showed significant anxiolytic-like and anti-depressive-like behaviors (as
measured by EPM and FST), as well as significant increases in overall activity (distance traveled in
open field test). Finally, the combined MP+FLX treatment induced a decrease in anxiety and depressive-
like behaviors significantly greater than the response from either of these drugs alone.

Conclusion:

These behavioral results characterize the long-term effects of these drugs (orally administered)
that are widely co-administered and co-misused and provide important insight into the potential
neurobiological and neurochemical effects. Future research will determine the potential risks of
the long-term use of MP and FLX together.
The Impact of the Initial Admission Department on the Management and
Prognosis of Retinal Artery Occlusion
Authors: Zhou Dong , He Li , Liu Yanqin , Dong Shuju , Luo Yaxi , Li Yanbo , Li Changling
Published: October 2022

Background:

Retinal artery occlusion (RAO) is an emergency condition in both neurology and
ophthalmology departments. However, RAO's management and visual outcome in different initial departments
remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the impact of the initial department on the management
and prognosis of RAO.

Methods:

Consecutive cases of RAO between January 2011 and December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed.
The neurology and ophthalmology departments compared the baseline characteristics, relevant evaluation,
and treatment. The primary outcome was the visual recovery rate. The secondary outcomes were newly
diagnosed cardiovascular factors, concurrent stroke and new-onset cardiovascular events.

Results:

A total of 74 RAO patients were included. The median age was 54 years, and 67.6% were male. 42
(56.8%) patients were admitted to the neurology department and 32 (43.2%) to the ophthalmology department.
The visual recovery rate was higher in the neurology department than in the ophthalmology department,
although the difference did not reach statistical significance (27.8 vs. 12.5%, p = 0.120). Risk factor
evaluation and secondary prevention were taken more frequently in the neurology department (p < 0.001).
Cardiovascular risk factors and concurrent stroke were all discovered in the neurology department. However,
the incidence of new-onset cardiovascular events was similar between the two departments.

Conclusions:

The study demonstrated that the visual prognosis of RAO was devastating regardless of the
neurology and ophthalmology department. Given the admission delay, inadequate management, and high
risk of cardiovascular risk factors and stroke, stroke centers should be recommended as initial admission
departments for RAO patients.
Combinatorial Application of Papain and CD66B for Isolating Glioma-
Associated Neutrophils
Authors: Li Wenliang , Jin Xun , Xu Xing , Yang Yongchang , Liu Yancheng , Ge Xianglian , Yi Tailong , Xie Yang , Ning Chunlan , Shen Shengfu , Sun Zengfeng , Zhang Zhen , Zhai Qiongli , Wang Xiaoguang , Meng Xianghui , Dong Jun , Huang Qiang , Yang Xuejun
Published: October 2022

Background:

Stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment play crucial roles in glioma development.
Current methods for isolating tumor-associated stromal cells (such as neutrophils) are inefficient
due to the conflict between tissue dissociation and cell surface protein protection, which hampers
the research on patient-derived stromal cells. Our study aims to establish a novel method for isolating
glioma-associated neutrophils (GANs).

Method:

To observe neutrophil-like polymorphonuclear cells, we performed Hematoxylin-Eosin
staining on glioma tissues. For isolating single cells from glioma tissues, we evaluated the efficiency of
tissue dissociation with FastPrep Grinder-mediated homogenization or proteases (trypsin or papain)
digestion. To definite specific markers of GANs, fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and immunofluorescence
staining were performed. FACS and Ficoll were performed for the separation of
neutrophils from glioma tissue-derived single-cell or whole blood pool. To identify the isolated neutrophils,
FACS and RT-PCR were carried out.

Result:

Neutrophil-like cells were abundant in high-grade glioma tissues. Among the three tissue dissociation
methods, papain digestion produced a 5.1-fold and 1.7-fold more living cells from glioma
mass than physical trituration and trypsin digestion, respectively, and it preserved over 97% of neutrophil
surface protein markers. CD66B could be adopted as a unique neutrophil surface protein marker
for FACS sorting in glioma. Glioma-derived CD66B+ cells specifically expressed neutrophil marker
genes.

Conclusion:

A combination of papain-mediated tissue dissociation and CD66B-mediated FACS sorting
is an effective novel method for the isolation of GANs from glioma tissues.
In silico Exploration of the Potential Inhibitory Activity of Novel
Compounds Against Candida albicans N-myristoyltransferase
Authors: Hussain Afzal , Verma Chandan Kumar
Published: October 2022

Background:

Candida albicans is a fungal species associated with opportunistic fungal infectious
agents in human populations, especially in immunocompromised patients, such as transplant patients,
HIV-positive patients, chemotherapy patients, and low-birth-weight newborns. The death rate for
systemic Candida illnesses ranges from 29 to 76 percent. Only a few medications are available to treat
them, such as amphotericin B, fluconazole, terbinafine, and caspofungin, which have adverse reactions
and are harmful.

Objective:

The goal of this research is to apply specialized bioinformatics approaches, such as molecular
docking, scaffold hopping, virtual screening, pharmacophore modeling, and molecular dynamics (MD)
simulation, to discover possibly novel and potent therapeutic drug candidates against Candida albicans in
a shorter period and at a low cost.

Methods:

MDPI, MayBridge, Hitfinder, Mcule library, SQLite Database, DrugBank, ZINC, and NCI
database were used to perform pharmacophore modeling, scaffold hopping, virtual screening, docking,
and ADMET characteristics study against NMT. The molecular dynamics simulations for the best ten
docked protein-ligand complexes were examined to determine the stability of protein-ligand interactions
during a 200 ns simulation period, demonstrating their potential for lead molecule production via more
improvement and experimental verification.

Results:

We have identified that compounds DB01940 ((3R,4R)-3-(4-hydroxybenzamido)azepan-4-yl 4-
(2-hydroxybenzoyl)benzoate), DB01772 (3-(3-{[(2S)-2,3-dihydroxypropyl]amino}phenyl)-4-(5-fluoro-1-
methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2,5-dihydro-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione), and NCI5485 (1,3-bis((7-chloro-4-
quinolinyl)amino)-2-propanol) could be more promising Candida albicans NMT inhibitors.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these compounds have the potential to be effective anti-NMT medicines. The
results demonstrated that our computational technique found some potential and effective NMT inhibitors
that may be tested in clinical trials.
Rhodanine Derivatives as Anticancer Agents: QSAR and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Rastija Vesna , Molnar Maja , Lončarić Melita , Opačak-Bernardi Teuta , Glavaš-Obrovac Ljubica
Published: October 2022

Background:

Rhodanine derivatives have a proven wide range of biological activities.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of a series of rhodanine derivatives and investigate
the quantitative structure-activity relationships, as well as binding modes to tyrosine kinase.

Conclusion:

Rhodanine derivatives could be developed as novel tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of leukemia.

Methods:

Cytotoxic effect on cell proliferation (CaCo-2, HeLa, MDCK-1, Hut-78, K562) in vitro was evaluated by the
MTT viability assay. QSAR analysis was performed with Dragon descriptors using QSARINS software. Molecular
docking was performed on the tyrosin kinase (c-Src) (PDB ID: 3G6H) using iGEMDOCK.

Results:

Compounds with the best inhibiting activity toward all cell lines were the ones possessing only one group in
the C2 of the phenyl ring. QSAR study on the cytotoxic activity against Human T cell lymphoma achieved the model
that satisfies the fitting and internal cross-validation criteria (R2 = 0.75; Q2
LOO = 0.64). Descriptors included in the model
(MATS2e, MATs7e, RDF060p) revealed the importance of the presence of atoms with higher polarizability in the
outer region of molecules. The findings of the molecular docking study performed on the c-Src are in accordance with
the results of the QSAR study. The key interactions with binding site residues were achieved through oxygen atoms
from phenoxy and rhodanine groups and rhodanine sulphur atoms.
Composition Analysis of Salsola grandis and Its Effects on Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Şirin Seda , Dursun Hatice Gül , Güneş Canan Eroğlu
Published: October 2022

Background:

The success of drug treatment of colon cancer (CC), which is in the top three in terms of incidence
and mortality among all cancers, is adversely affected by reasons, such as severe side effects and chemoresistance.
Clinical, epidemiological and experimental studies have indicated the need for developing new alternative
drugs for the treatment of CC. Plants are an important source of traditional medicines that have proven to be highly
beneficial for the treatment of CC.

Aim:

In this study, we aimed to reveal the antioxidant properties and anti-carcinogenic activity of Salsola grandis
methanol extract (SGME) on HT-29.

Methods:

For this purpose, we used spectrophotometric methods to determine the antioxidant properties of SGME and
LC-MS/MS analysis to measure the phenolic acid composition. We applied 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl
tetrazolium bromide, the thiazolyl blue (MTT) method, to evaluate its effects on cell viability and ELISA assay, realtime
PCR, and western blot method to reveal its effects on apoptosis.

Results:

Spectrophotometric analyzes showed that SGME has the highest phenolic acid content, inhibits plasma lipid
peroxidation and shows chelating activity and radical scavenging activity. Gene and protein expression analysis revealed
the effects of SGME treatment on apoptosis genes/proteins.

Conclusion:

These findings showed that SGME has anticarcinogenic activity on CC due to its antioxidant, cell viability-
suppressing and apoptosis-inducing properties.
A Summary of Parameter Tuning of Active Disturbance Rejection
Controller
Authors: Gao Bingwei , Zheng Lintao , Shen Wei , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2022

Background:

ADRC (active disturbance rejection controller) technology is a new practical
technology that does not rely on the mathematical model of the controlled object and has strong
robustness. It integrates the essence of modern control theory and classical proportion integral derivative
theory and has good engineering application prospects. But with the research and development
of the adaptive disturbance rejection controller, the problem of many parameters and the difficulty
to adjust also arises.

Objective:

To act as a guide for future studies on the enhancement of ADRC parameter setting, to
support the growth of ADRC technology, and to promote the effective use of the technology in other
control fields.

Method:

The basic concepts and principles of ADRC control, the research methodologies for
ADRC parameter tuning, and the research progress for ADRC parameter tuning in each direction
are all introduced in this paper. The benefits and drawbacks of each method are then compiled, and
a potential course of future development is suggested. This information is expected to serve as a
guide for future studies on the enhancement of ADRC parameter tuning.

Conclusion:

The parameter tuning of the ADRC is a complex adjustment process. At present, the
mainstream parameter tuning methods include the empirical method, the bandwidth method, the
intelligent algorithm tuning method, and the time scale tuning method. Among them, the empirical
method demands the debugging personnel to adjust conform to the accumulated experience, and the
adjustment process is cumbersome; The bandwidth method needs to go through a lot of tedious calculations
to determine the control parameters according to the model of the system, and the generality
is poor; and the use of intelligent algorithms to tune ADRC parameters has become the most
widely used method for tuning parameters.
Linking Social Anxiety and Depression: The Role of Metacognitive
Beliefs and Anhedonia
Authors: Hermann Ezra , Rai Aditi , Tewari Amisha , Kopyto Sarah , Castellanos Kayla , Barahmand Usha
Published: October 2022

Aim and background:

This study aims to examine mechanisms that may account for the comorbidity between social anxiety and depression.

Objective:

We hypothesized that maladaptive metacognitions and anhedonia would serially mediate the link between social anxiety and depression.

Method:

We tested this notion by collecting data from 208 international, English speaking participants ranging from the ages of 18 to 65 years old using the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS), Self-Assessment Anhedonia Scale (SAAS), Patient’s Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Metacognition Questionnaire (MCQ-30).

Results and Discussion:

The results show a significant serial mediation effect from social anxiety via beliefs about uncontrollability and danger and anhedonia to depression, with the pathway from social anxiety via reduced beliefs in cognitive confidence and anhedonia to depression not being significant. Furthermore, a direct path from social anxiety to depression was also significant.

Conclusions:

Findings provide support for both the tripartite model and the self-regulatory executive function model of anxiety and depression. While the findings imply the contributions of other mediating variables, they also indicate that metacognitive therapy with additional focus on anhedonia could be effective in preventing the development of depression.
Recent advances in enzymatic fat splitting- has the time come for wide industrial plant implementation?
Authors:   Novozymes AS, Holm Hans Christian
Published: October 2022

More than 200 oils and fats processing plants Worldwide now use enzyme solutions to improve process yield and product qualities. Enzyme processing is now the state-of-the-art process for making biodiesel from high FFA feed stock, for improving carbon footprint and product quality of palm kernel methanol esters for physically and chemically refining of vegetable oils and for production of interesterified specialty and bulk fat.   Building on the successful learning from the wide enzyme usage we expect that the time has come to implement enzyme solutions for fat splitting, not just for small specialty products, but for a wide range of substrates.   Recent advances from our laboratory work will be presented, key in the development work has been to optimize enzyme performance to a stage were enzymatic fat splitting not only deliver improved products, but this at cost in use competitive to thermal or chemical fat split.