bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between the rs4987105 of 5-lipoxygenase (ALOX5) gene and gestational glucose metabolism in Chinese population
Authors: Li Xi , Su Jindi , Chen Shiguo , Lin Sheng , Zheng Xiujie , Wang Baojiang , Yao Keqin , Lai Liping , Duan Shan
Published: February 2020

Objective

The arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase (ALOX5) pathway has been investigated in diverse chronic inflammatory diseases including metabolic disorders. Recently, the ALOX5 polymorphism rs4987105 was identified to confer susceptibility to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), implicating its role in regulating glucose homeostasis. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) shares similar pathogenic mechanism with T2DM. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the association between rs4987105 and gestational glucose metabolism in Chinese pregnant women.

Results

A total of 380 unrelated Chinese pregnant women including 241 GDM patients and 139 controls were included in this study. The genotypes of rs4987105 were examined by the Agena MassARRAY iPLEX platform, the association between rs4987105 and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels at 24–28 gestational weeks was evaluated using different statistical methods. We found that carriers of rs4987105 CT/TT genotypes exhibited significantly lower FPG levels (P = 0.011). In addition, we observed a significant association between rs4987105 and FPG levels after adjusting confounding variables in the linear regression analysis using dominant genetic model (b = − 0.218; P = 0.01). The present study for the first time reported that the rs4987105 of 5-lipoxygenase (ALOX5) gene was associated with gestational glucose metabolism in Chinese pregnant women.
How advances in epidemiology are influencing older adult psychiatry
Authors: Shoham Natalie , Cooper Claudia
Published: February 2020

Shortcomings of randomised controlled clinical trials include their high cost, which often precludes very long-term studies and very large populations, and ethical constraints of randomisation. Observational studies are a valuable alternative and we outline their use in epidemiological research to study very long-term effects of lifestyle and medication on dementia, to explore (using Mendelian randomisation) the association between Alzheimer's dementia and individual traits, and to evaluate population-wide health inequalities and lifespan changes in risk factors for psychiatric illness.
Use of bright light therapy for older adults with dementia
Authors: Onega Lisa L. , Pierce Thomas W.
Published: February 2020

Bright light therapy is an accepted and commonly used treatment for seasonal affective and circadian rhythm disorders. In the past 20 years, researchers have examined the effectiveness of bright light therapy in improving depression and agitation in older adults with dementia. This article provides clinicians with a summary of the neurophysiology of bright light therapy, bright light research considerations, an evidence-based bright light protocol, problems related to bright light therapy, and clinical implications for bright light therapy in older adults with dementia. Bright light exposure is a safe, non-pharmacological treatment that is currently underutilised in this population. Clinicians may find bright light therapy beneficial as a primary or adjunctive treatment in reducing depression and agitation in older adults with dementia.
Efficacy of ramucirumab and docetaxel given either before or after immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with lung cancers.
Authors: Offin Michael , Xu Chongrui , Jain Harsh , Makhnin Alex , Hayes Sara A. , Plodkowski Andrew J. , Halpenny Darragh , Rudin Charles M. , Kris Mark G. , Drilon Alexander E. , Li Bob T. , Paik Paul K.
Published: February 2020

9078

Background: Ramucirumab and docetaxel (RamDoce) is a treatment for lung cancer patients after platinum-based therapy regardless of histology, the presence of oncogenic drivers, or prior immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI). Past data has shown a possible differential response to chemotherapy based on ICI exposure. We determined the activity of RamDoce given to patients before or after ICI. Methods: We evaluated patients with stage IV lung cancers who received RamDoce at MSK from 1/2015 - 6/2018. We grouped them based on timing of RamDoce: Before (including never receiving ICI) or After ICI. Ram was given at 8-10mg/kg with Doce 60-75mg/m2 every 2-3 weeks. Demographics, oncogene status and histologic comparisons were done with Mann-Whitney and Fisher’s exact tests. Time to treatment discontinuation (TTD) and overall survival (OS), were compared by long-rank test. Results: 194 patients received RamDoce: 78 Before and 116 After ICI. Median line of therapy for RamDoce in both cohorts was 3. Demographics in the Before and After ICI respectively included: 45 vs 53 female (p = 0.56), 50 vs 96 ever-smokers (p = 0.004), 59 vs 64 years old (p = 0.003), 73 vs 103 adenocarcinoma (p = 0.30). 83% (64/77) of patients with available tissue were PD-L1 negative. TMB was similar between cohorts (7.8 vs 6.1 mut/Mb, p = 0.68). Before ICI had a greater proportion of oncogenes present (64% vs 47%, p = 0.02). Combining Cohorts, TTD for EGFR-mutant (n = 41) and KRAS-mutant (n = 45) lung cancers was 4.0 and 3.9 months respectively vs 2.3 months for EGFR/KRAS-WT (p = 0.051). There was no difference in TTD for adenocarcinoma (n = 176) vs squamous cancers (n = 15, 2.6 vs. 3.1 months respectively; HR 0.8, 95% CI 0.4-1.7, p = 0.51). We saw no difference in TTD between Before (1.5 months) and After ICI (3.0 months, HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.7-1.2, p = 0.39). There was no difference in OS: Before ICI (1.6 years) and After ICI (2.0 years; HR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8-1.5, p = 0.49). Conclusions: There was no difference in TTD or OS for RamDoce when given before or after ICI. There was a trend toward prolonged benefit from RamDoce in EGFR/KRAS-mutant lung cancers. Data on the efficacy of RamDoce in oncogene-driven groups can help guide care and serve as a benchmark for new drug evaluations.
Phase 1 study of CA-4948, a novel inhibitor of interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) in patients (pts) with r/r non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Authors: Rosenthal Allison Claire , Tun Han W. , Younes Anas , Nowakowski Grzegorz S. , Lunning Matthew Alexander , Patel Krish , Landsburg Daniel Jeffrey , Martell Robert E. , Leslie Lori Ann
Published: February 2020

e19055

Background: IRAK4 is a signaling modulator of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and members of the IL-1R family. TLR/IL-1R activity is frequently dysregulated in NHL, including DLBCL and Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM). CA-4948, an oral inhibitor of IRAK4, has demonstrated anti-tumor activity in preclinical models. Methods: Dose finding cohorts (3+3 design) will test QD or BID dosing schedule in pts with R/R NHL. Dose expansion will occur in 2 cohorts of R/R NHL with or without MYD88 mutation at the RP2D or MTD. Key eligibility criteria: age ≥ 18 years, ECOG ≤1, and adequate organ function. Objectives: safety, MTD and RP2D (primary); PK and anti-tumor activity (secondary); exploratory biomarkers and PD effects. Plasma cytokine levels are being evaluated post ex-vivo TLR stimulation in whole blood. Results: 13 pts have been treated (6 at 50 mg QD; 3 at 100 mg QD; 4 at 50 mg BID). Tumor types included DLBCL (7), FL (5), WM (1). The most frequent treatment-emergent AEs (≥10% of pts) were fatigue (23%), conjunctivitis, constipation, neutrophil count decrease, white blood cell count decrease (each 15%). One pt treated at 100 mg QD experienced Gr 3 rash which resolved following oral steroid treatment; dose reduction to 50 mg QD was tolerated without flare up. One SAE of disease progression occurred. 9 pts completed the DLT evaluation period thru Cycle 2 including 2 ongoing in Cycle 4 and 6. Preliminary PK showed that CA-4948 is rapidly absorbed with maximum plasma concentration observed 1.0 to 4.0 hrs post administration. T1/2 in plasma was about 6 hrs. Minimal to no accumulation was observed following multiple doses. Plasma exposures were dose proportional. Preliminary PD data showed, similar to murine studies, on target reduction of NF-kB-associated factors such as IL-6 post-treatment from pts with complete sample sets (N = 8). Conclusions: Current dose/schedule is well tolerated with preliminary PK and PD effects at the initial dose level. MTD has not been reached. Clinical trial information: NCT03328078.
Eating versus skipping breakfast has no discernible effect on obesity-related anthropometric outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bohan Brown Michelle M. , Milanes Jillian E. , Allison David B. , Brown Andrew W.
Published: February 2020

Background:Whether one should eat or skip breakfast for weight is of continued interest in both the scientific and lay communities. Our objective was to systematically review and meta-analyze causal effects of eating versus skipping breakfast on obesity-related anthropometric outcomes in humans.

Methods:AltHealthWatch, CINAHL, Proquest Theses and Dissertations Global, PsycInfo, and Scopus were searched for obesity- and breakfast-related terms in humans (final search: 02 JAN 2020). Studies needed to isolate eating versus skipping breakfast in randomized controlled trials. Mean differences were synthesized using inverse variance random effects meta-analysis for each outcome measured in more than one study. Positive estimates indicate higher outcomes in breakfast conditions (e.g., weight gain). Leave-one-out analysis was used for sensitivity. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool.

Results:Ten articles (12 comparisons) were included. Study lengths spanned 6 days to 16 weeks. Conditions included recommendations to eat versus skip breakfast, or provision of some or all meals. 95% confidence intervals of all main analyses included the null value of no difference for each outcome: body weight (0.17 kg [-0.40,0.74], k=12, n=486, I2=74.4), BMI (0.08 kg/m2[-0.10,0.26, k=8, n=395, I2=53.9), body fat percentage (-0.27% [-1.01,0.47], k=6, n=179, I2=52.4), fat mass (0.24 kg [-0.21,0.69], k=6, n=205, I2=0.0), lean mass (0.18 kg [-0.08,0.44], k=6, n=205, I2=6.7), waist circumference (0.18 cm [-1.77,2.13], k=4, n=102, I2=78.7), waist:hip ratio (0.00 [-0.01,0.01], k=4, n=102, I2=8.0), sagittal abdominal diameter (0.19 cm [-2.35,2.73], k=2, n=56, I2=0.0), and fat mass index (0.00 kg/m2[-0.22,0.23], k=2, n=56, I2=0.0). One study reported muscle mass and total body water percentage. Leave-one-out analysis did not indicate substantial influence of any one study.

Conclusions:There was no discernible effect of eating or skipping breakfast on obesity-related anthropometric measures when pooling studies with substantial design heterogeneity and sometimes statistical heterogeneity.

Registration:PROSPEROCRD42016033290.
Vivation breathing technique as a way to work out a reduced level of subjective vitality
Authors: Maltseva Tatyana
Published: February 2020

The article discusses the theoretical and practical foundations of breathing practice. As shown in scientific studies, respiratory psychotechnics contribute to the development of regulation of negative emotional states, mastery of the basics of psychophysical and psychoenergetic self-regulation, and also have a pronounced volitional aspect. The subject of research in this article are the features of using the breathing technique of Vision in order to study a reduced level of subjective vitality. The purpose of this work was in experimentally study of the effect of respiratory psychotechnics on the level of subjective vitality. To achieve this goal the Russian-language version of the methodology for determining subjective vitality developed in the framework of the theory of self-determination by R. Ryan and S. Frederick in the modification of L.A. Alexandrova. In order to study the effect of the breathing technique of Vival on the states and personality traits that are of paramount importance for the process of social adaptation and regulation of behavior, the Freiburg multifactor personality questionnaire FPI was used. The respondents were 48 persons who were employees of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation. The obtained results allow us to optimize the work of providing psychological assistance to the employees of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation in a situation of reducing the level of subjective vitality.
Variable transmission optical filter based on an actuated origami structure
Authors: Roberts Brian , Ghosh Megha , Ku Pei-Cheng
Published: February 2020

A variable transmission thin film for visible light is proposed based on a mechanically actuated origami structure coated with metallic nanoparticles. The transmissivity can be tuned continuously from 0 to>90%for unpolarized incident light. Power is only required for switching and is not necessary to maintain the desired transmittance state. The asymmetric metal nanorods create two distinct plasmon resonances. Controlling the orientation of the nanorods with respect to the direction of the incident light changes the optical transmittance. The switching speed is only limited by the mechanical actuation and not by the optical response of the materials. The applicability of the proposed film for smart glass applications is investigated. Good image transmission clarity with minimal distortion is shown.
Predictive model for the quantitative analysis of human skin using photothermal radiometry and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy
Authors: Verdel Nina , Tanevski Jovan , Džeroski Sašo , Majaron Boris
Published: February 2020

We have recently introduced a novel methodology for the noninvasive analysis of the structure and composition of human skin in vivo. The approach combines pulsed photothermal radiometry (PPTR), involving time-resolved measurements of mid-infrared emission after irradiation with a millisecond light pulse, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) in the visible part of the spectrum. Simultaneous fitting of both data sets with respective predictions from a numerical model of light transport in human skin enables the assessment of the contents of skin chromophores (melanin, oxy-, and deoxy-hemoglobin), as well as scattering properties and thicknesses of the epidermis and dermis. However, the involved iterative optimization of 14 skin model parameters using a numerical forward model (i.e., inverse Monte Carlo - IMC) is computationally very expensive. In order to overcome this drawback, we have constructed a very fast predictive model (PM) based on machine learning. The PM involves random forests, trained on ∼9,000 examples computed using our forward MC model. We show that the performance of such a PM is very satisfying, both in objective testing using cross-validation and in direct comparisons with the IMC procedure. We also present a hybrid approach (HA), which combines the speed of the PM with versatility of the IMC procedure. Compared with the latter, the HA improves both the accuracy and robustness of the inverse analysis, while significantly reducing the computation times.
A Review The use of Cerebrolysin in Pediatric Charcot Marie Tooth Disease
Authors: Mosawi Aamir Jalal Al
Published: February 2020

Charcot Marie Tooth disease is a is a very chronic progressive hereditarymotor and sensory neuropathy characterized by progressive weakness andloss of touch sensation across various parts of the body. There are no curative or effective medical therapies that can ameliorate the disability associated with Charcot Marie Tooth disease. The aim of this paper is to describe the safe novel use of cerebrolysin in an Iraqi patient with Charcot Marie Tooth disease.

Patients and Methods
A boy who was born on the seventh of November, 2009, and was first seen on 29th of January, 2018 at the Children Teaching Hospital of Baghdad Medical City and had Charcot Marie Tooth disease was observed. He had difficulty in walking and abnormal gait that made him left first grade primary school.

The nerve conduction study and electromyography study supported the clinical diagnosis of chronic symmetric sensori-motor polyneuropathy of moderated severity.

The boy was treated with a safe novel therapy for one month. He receivedten doses of 3 ml intra-muscular cerebrolysin every three days.

Results
The short term effect of the therapy was dramatic with noticeable improvement that has never been reported before with this condition.

Conclusion
Further studies enrolling more patients are highly recommended.
Crisis civilizatoria
Authors: Lander Edgardo
Published: February 2020

En el contexto de la profunda crisis civilizatoria que vive la humanidad, se da igualmente una severa crisis de las izquierdas en diferentes partes del mundo. Las propuestas alternativas que fueron representadas por los denominados gobiernos progresistas en América Latina, en lo fundamental, fracasaron en términos de los objetivos que se transformadores que se propusieron. La incapacidad de la izquierda »oficial« para reflexionar crítica y autocríticamente sobre estas experiencias impide aprender de éstas, con lo cual no puede sino profundizarse la crisis de dicha izquierda como alternativa al capitalismo y, más ampliamente, a civilización en crisis.
Producción horizontal del conocimiento
Authors: Corona Berkin Sarah
Published: February 2020

Este texto ratifica que el conocimiento no pertenece a una disciplina ni a una región determinada del mundo. La Construcción Horizontal del Conocimiento se refiere al vigor que adquieren los conocimientos sociales cuando parten del diálogo disciplinar con las voces de los saberes múltiples que poseen quienes viven y superan los problemas sociales que les aquejan. La investigación que responde horizontalmente a las preguntas sociales aporta de dos maneras: produce nuevo conocimiento, y nuevas relaciones entre las personas.
Autonomie und Kalkulation
Authors: Molzberger Kaspar
Published: February 2020

Der Strukturwandel im Gesundheitswesen wird häufig als Effizienz- und Qualitätsgewinn zugleich gepriesen. Ein soziologischer Blick indes zeigt: was sich hinter der »Ökonomisierung« der Krankenversorgung verbirgt, ist ein höchst kontroverses Unterfangen. Kaspar Molzberger nimmt in Anlehnung an relationale Sozialtheorien eine Neubestimmung vor. Seine praxissoziologische Studie verdeutlicht, womit die nach professionellen Werten arbeitenden Berufsgruppen in Krankenhäusern zu kämpfen haben, wenn sie den neoliberalen Managementreformen zu entsprechen suchen. Es droht eine »Verkehrung des Gewöhnlichen«: Die Autonomie der Arzt- und Pflegeberufe wird nunmehr als kalkulative behandelt und es ist folglich das Krankenhaus, das mit immer mehr Kranken versorgt werden muss, um zu überleben.
Leben weben
Authors: Howanitz Gernot
Published: February 2020

Das Internet als das Medium der Selbstdarstellung schlechthin wird auch von russischen Autorinnen und Autoren gerne genutzt. Sie übernehmen Bilder der Schriftstellerin bzw. des Schriftstellers aus der russischen Literaturtradition, passen sie auf die kommunikativen Gegebenheiten des Web an und erschaffen sie in medialen Experimenten neu. Doch wie lassen sich die unter der Oberfläche des Web 2.0 operierenden kreativen Mechanismen identifizieren und im Kontext der Literaturtheorie verorten? Gernot Howanitz verschränkt in seinem Buch qualitative und quantitative Verfahren im Sinne der Digital Humanities, um den (auto-)biographischen Praktiken im russischsprachigen Internet (Runet) nachzuspüren. Die dem Buch zugrundeliegende Dissertation wurde ausgezeichnet mit dem Gustav-Figdor-Preis für Literaturwissenschaften, verliehen durch die Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften (2018), dem Dissertationspreis der Universität Passau (2018) sowie dem DARIAH-DE Digital Humanities Award (2018).
Enhanced Production of Protective Antigen, a Potent Diagnostic Protein of Bacillus anthracis, the Causative Agent of Anthrax
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Puranik Nidhi , Tripathi Nagesh , Pal Vijai , Goel Ajay
Published: February 2020

Protective antigen (PA) produced by Bacillus anthracis is a highly immunogenic protein. Therefore, it has significant importance in serodiagnosis as well as a vaccine candidate for anthrax. In the present study, codons for PA gene were optimised and synthesised for its expression in Escherichia coli. Various expression conditions were optimised for scaled up production of rPA. The final yield of affinity chromatography purified protein was 40.8 mg/l during batch fermentation. For further purification, affinity purified protein was diafiltered and subjected to anion exchange chromatography. SDS-PAGE and Western blot was used to characterise the purified rPA protein. The diagnostic potential of purified rPA was evaluated in Western blot using standards reference serum AVR 801 and cutaneous anthrax clinical sera. The results of the present study established the optimum production of rPA in E. coli after codon optimisation for its subsequent use in diagnosis of anthrax infection.
Preservative Efficacy of Illicium verum Hook in Fruit Juices
Authors: Dhiman Romika , Aggarwal Neeraj Kumar
Published: February 2020

Fruit juices contain all essential nutrients that help in maintaining the health of human beings. However, fruit juices are easily spoiled by the growth of microorganism. Hence, the current investigation has been focused to examine the preservative potential of Illicium verum against microorganisms isolated from juices. Organic and aqueous extracts of I. verum fruits were accessed for their antimicrobial efficacy and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against selected microbes. Among the different solvents, acetonic extract was observed to be the most excellent solvent extract and the least MIC was 0.39 mg/ml. Hence, acetonic extract of I. verum has a biopreservative efficacy.
Influence of Altitude on Pulmonary Function A Comparative Study on Indian and Kyrgyz Healthy Males
Authors: Gaur Priya , Saini Supriya , Ray Koushik , Akunov Almazbek , Maripov Abdirashit , Sharma Sanjeev Kumar , Sarybaev Akpay , Kumar Bhuvnesh , Vats Praveen
Published: February 2020

Variation in lung function at high altitude (HA) impacts the working capacity of individuals and may predispose body towards hypoxia induced illness. So, we investigated the changes in pulmonary function of healthy human male volunteers belonging to two different ethnicities i.e. Indian and Kyrgyz. Twenty, age and BMI matched, volunteers (Indian=10 and Kyrgyz=10) were recruited for the study. Measurement for pulmonary functions (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, PEF, FEF 25-75%, MEF 25%, MEF 50%, MEF 75%, MVV) were performed on each individual at basal (800 m) and high altitude (4,111 m) on day 3,7,14 and 21. Results indicate that Kyrgyz has comparatively higher FVC, FEV1, PEF and MVV values and lower FEV1/FVC ratio upon altitude induction than those of Indian counterparts. Mid expiratory flow FEF25-75% was significantly increased in Kyrgyz upon altitude induction indicate more proficient lung emptying while only moderate increase at day 7 in Indian. MEF25% was significantly increased in Kyrgyz, while no change is observed in Indians at high altitude which indicates that 75% of lung emptying through small airways is better in Kyrgyz. MEF 50% and MEF 75% increased with altitude in both groups. For MVV, the maximum increase was ~17% in Indian at HA14 (p<0.01) and in Kyrgyz ~33% (p<0.001) at HA14 as compared to basal. Difference in lung function response observed, indicates that Kyrgyz has better pulmonary dynamics during altitude exposure as compared to Indian counterparts. The varied result observed may be due to different ethnic origin of the groups.
System Reliability Estimation of Divert Attitude Control System of a Launch Vehicle using Bayesian Networks
Authors: Muthukumar S. , Srivardhan R. A. , Bose P. Subhash Chandra
Published: February 2020

Divert attitude and control system (DACS) is a one-shot system and provides attitude correction and translation of the Launch vehicle. DACS consists of many flight critical sub systems which are arranged in a series configuration. The traditional Reliability block diagram and Fault tree diagram methods are unsuitable for reliability modelling, when considering uncertainty among the components and system. Bayesian network is the natural choice to model dependencies among the components and system. DACS being one shot system, it is very expensive and time consuming to test more number of systems during the design and development. Hence the data is drawn from component level, subsystem level and expert opinion is used for reliability estimation. In this paper, Bayesian network modelling of DAC system was carried out for estimating the reliability using multi-level data. An algorithm is developed for computation of Conditional probabilities in Bayesian network. Posterior probability distribution of components is calculated using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulations and results are compared with Junction tree based exact inference algorithm. MATLAB code is developed to estimate the reliability of DAC system.
Stability and Synchronization of a Fractional Neutral Higher-Order Neural Network System
Authors: Tatar N.-E.
Published: February 2020

We discuss the stability and synchronization of some neural network systems with more than one feature. They are of higher-order, of fractional order and also involving delays of neutral type. Each one of these features presents substantial difficulties to overcome. We prove stability and synchronization of Mittag-Leffler type. This rate is fairly reasonable in case of fractional order. This leads us to prove a neutral fractional version of the well-known Halanay inequality which is interesting by itself. Another feature of the present work is the treatment of unbounded activation functions. The condition of uniform boundedness of the activation functions was commonly used in the literature.
Rituximab versus cyclophosphamide for the treatment of children with steroid resistance nephrotic syndrome; a clinical trial study
Authors: Akhavan Sepahi Mohsen , Farahani Najmeh , Razavi Mohammad Reza , Heydari Hossein , Arsang-Jang Shahram
Published: February 2020

Introduction: The most common complications of the nephrotic syndrome (NS) are the frequent relapses, steroid resistance, and long-term steroid administration. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the therapeutic effect of rituximab versus cyclophosphamide in the prevention of relapses and the complications of treatment in children with steroid-resistant NS. Patients and Methods: This clinical trial study was performed on 50 patients with resistant steroidal NS referred to Masoumeh hospital in Qom, Iran. Patients were randomly divided into the two groups including intervention (n=20) and control groups (n=30). In addition to the prednisolone, the intervention group received 375 mg/m2/weekly rituximab intravenously for 4 weeks. The control group received oral doses of cyclophosphamide 2 mg/kg/d for 3 months. During treatment, the frequency of relapses, the mean dose of steroid and the complications of treatment were compared with a paired t-test, independent t-test, and chi-square test. Results: A significant decrease in the mean dose of steroids and the mean number of relapses were seen in patients after administration of rituximab and cyclophosphamide (P<0.001). However, rituximab reduced the dose of steroid administration by 12.25 mg/d, while cyclophosphamide reduced only 2.83 mg/d (P<0.001). Rituximab reduced the relapse rate two times on average, while cyclophosphamide reduced only 0.5 times (P<0.001). The incidence of complications in the cyclophosphamide group was found to be more severe than the rituximab group. Conclusion: To compare rituximab versus cyclophosphamide regarding lower the frequency of recurrence after treatment, we found rituximab is a more suitable drug for the treatment of steroid-resistant NS than cyclophosphamide.
A review on application of nanoparticles for cancer therapy
Authors: Dayani Mohamad Ali
Published: February 2020

In recent years, scientific societies had warmly embraced nanotechnology as an emerging field in cancer therapy. Nanotechnology has had a profound influence on almost every aspect of the twenty-first century’s diurnal life. During the past years, nanomaterials have been successfully applied in different biomedical fields; especially in cancer therapy. While cancer is one of the deadliest disorders worldwide, there is a need to develop novel anticancer approaches. In this review, we explained various kinds of nanoparticles such as liposome-based and polymeric nanoparticles and dendrimers along with their applications in cancer therapy.
Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory impact of valsartan against renal ischemia-reperfusion injury; role of nitric oxide signaling pathway
Authors: Mohmoodnia Leila , Safari  Ahmadvand Sarina , Koushki Sahar , Farzan Behrooz , Papi Sajad , Hadian Babak , Dehpour Ahmad-Reza , Hasanvand Amin
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Renal ischemia reperfusion injury is one of the main causes of acute renal failure, which is associated with high mortality. Tissue damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion occurs due to the release of oxygen free radicals. Type I angiotensin receptor antagonists such as valsartan can be useful in the treatment of chronic kidney disease and hypertension. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the protective effect of valsartan against renal ischemia reperfusion via antioxidant property and nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway. Materials and Methods: Fifty male Wistar rats (220±10 g) were randomly divided into five groups as follows: Group 1; healthy rats without ischemia-reperfusion (control group). Group 2; rats with ischemia reperfusion (IR) (IR control group). Group 3; rats with IR which received 30 mg/kg valsartan orally. Group 4; rats with IR which received 30 mg/kg valsartan together with 40 mg/kg L-NAME. Group 5; rats with IR which received 30 mg/kg valsartan together with 40 mg/kg L-arginine. To induce ischemia-reperfusion, rats were anesthetized with thiopental and underwent surgery. Then, we induced ischemia with blocking blood vessels for 45 minutes by clamping. Biochemical parameters including urea and creatinine were measured using commercial kits. Oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters were measured by ELISA method. Renal tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Finally, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine the normal distribution of data. Results: The findings of this study indicated that treatment with valsartan and valsartan plus L-arginine leads to significant decrease in the serum levels of creatinine, urea, and albumin/creatinine, malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) in contrast to IR control group which has increased level of these parameters. On the other hand, treatment with valsartan and valsartan plus L-arginine lead to increase in the serum levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPX), in contrast to ischemia reperfusion control group. Conclusion: Our data revealed that valsartan as a type I angiotensin receptor antagonist could decrease oxidative stress and inflammation due to renal ischemia reperfusion injury. Hence, valsartan could propose as a therapeutic agent for kidney diseases such as renal ischemia-reperfusion injury regarded to these renoprotective effects.
Frequency of broad-spectrum beta-lactamase gene and evaluation of antimicrobial effect of Teucrium polium extract and essential oil in clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumonia
Authors: Gholizadeh  Doran Mahalleh Roghayeh , Rokhbakhsh Zamein Farokh , Dahmardeh Javad
Published: February 2020

Introduction: β-Lactamase enzymes are one of the most important factors in generating antibiotic resistance among gram-negative bacteria. Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen from the Enterobacteriaceae family, which plays a major role in the development of hospital infections and people with underlying diseases. Objectives: This study was aimed to investigate the antimicrobial effect of the essential oil of Teucrium polium on strains containing antibiotic resistant genes in clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Zahedan. Materials and Methods: To identify chemical compounds and to investigate the antibacterial effects of T. polium extract, the leaves of this plant were collected from their natural habitat in May 2018 at full flowering stage. Extraction was carried out by water distillation method. Antibacterial activity of the extract of this plant and the least inhibitory concentration of growth on the resistant strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae was performed. Results: The essential oil yield of T. polium was 75%. Of the 29 compounds identified in the essential oil of the T. polium, the combination of α-pinene with 12.52%, linalool was the highest in the essential oil of 10.63%. Of the 120 isolates of K. pneumoniae, 52 isolates in the initial screening were positive for ESBL production, of which 39 isolates (32.5%) were positive in the phenotypic confirmatory assay. Around 11 isolates (10.8%) had ampC genes. Based on the results of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), 76.9%, 12.8%, 30.8%, 28.2%, 25.7% and 56.4% of the isolates were carriers of FOX, EBC, ACC, DHA, CIT genes and MOX, respectively. Conclusion: The results of antimicrobial resistance study of isolates showed that the highest resistance to erythromycin antibiotics (92.5%), cefotaxime (38.4%) and ceftriaxone (35.9%), respectively, while the highest susceptibility was observed in colistin antibiotics (98.3%), imipenem (90%) and amikacin (88.3%), respectively. The essential oil of the T. polium had a significant antibacterial effect. Due to the high percentage of high concentrations of α-pinene and linalool in the essential oil of the T. polium, in such a way that has antibacterial properties, T. polium can be used to cope with certain pathogenic bacteria.
Administration of metformin in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with chronic kidney disease; facts and myths
Authors: Akhavan Sepahi Mohsen , Lakkakula Bhaskar VKS , James Kellner Steven , Valizadeh Rohollah
Published: February 2020

There are few publications reporting adverse effects of metformin for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although some of these reports have made big claims about the adverse effects of metformin in patients with renal failure, the majority of studies showed a superior safety profile for metformin compared with other antidiabetic medications in these patients. Further, metformin use is not contributing to an increased incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI). In conclusion, we suggest that a low dose of metformin is safe to use in patients with or without CKD. Multicenter randomized trials are required to further discover the benefits of the risk of metformin therapy in different stages of CKD and its effect on progression of CKD.
Intradialytic exercise increases cardiac power index
Authors: Momb Brent A. , Headley Samuel A.E , Matthews Tracey D. , Germain Michael J.
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Mortality rates are high in end-stage renal disease due to cardiovascular complications. Perfusion of the myocardium declines during and after hemodialysis sessions with the potential for aerobic exercise to mitigate these during hemodialysis. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate acute changes in hemodynamics in subjects with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) during exercise. Patients and Methods: Subjects (n = 10) were monitored for 1.5 hours during hemodialysis treatment during a control (CON) and an exercise (EX) session. Subjects cycled using an ergometer strapped to the reclining dialysis chair at an RPE of 11-13 for 30 minutes during the EX session beginning at 30 min into dialysis and ending at 60 minutes. Data for systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were collected using an automated blood pressure cuff attached to the hemodialysis machine. Data for cardiac output (Q̇ ), cardiac power index (CPI), stroke volume (SV), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and heart rate (HR) were collected using the NICaS bioelectrical impedance device. Results: During the EX session, CPI, Q̇ , SV, and HR were significantly greater (P<0.05) than the CON session. Additionally, Q̇ was significantly (P< 0.05) greater at 45 minutes and 60 minutes compared to 15 minutes. HR was significantly (P<0.05) greater at 45 minutes compared to 90 minutes. No significant interactions were found for MAP, CPI, Q̇ , HR, SV, SBP, DBP, or SVR. Conclusion: In conclusion, exercise during dialysis may decrease the likelihood of experiencing ischemic or hypotensive events by enhancing myocardial perfusion through increasing CPI and Q̇ .
Transplant renal artery stenosis without hypertension: A case report
Authors: Saddadi Fereshteh , Hoseini Seyyed Mehdi , Rasolian Faezeh , Fallahkohan Mohammad Hassan
Published: February 2020

In kidney transplant recipients, the renal artery stenosis is cause of graft dysfunction and graft loss. Here we describe a case that leads to graft loss. The nephrologist should know about its etiologies, symptoms and diagnostic tools and also its treatment after renal transplantation.
Serum tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (sTWEAK) and IL-17 levels are associated with disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with and without nephritis
Authors: Nakhjavani Mohammadreza , Abediazar Sima , Ghorbanihaghjo Amir , Esmaeili Niloofar , Pourlak Tala , Zununi Vahed Sepideh
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most severe signs of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rapid diagnosis of kidney damage remains an important concern for LN. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) and interleukin 17 (IL-17) with SLE severity, renal involvement, and other clinical manifestations in lupus patients. Patients and Methods: In order to determine a better biomarker for the detection of renal damage, this study evaluated the ability of serum TWEAK (sTWEAK) and IL-17 in lupus patients with (n=25) and without (n=25) nephritis and healthy controls (n=39). Moreover, it compared the levels of these cytokines with disease activity and chronicity as well as traditional serum markers including complement C3 and C4, creatinine, and proteinuria in lupus patients. Results: Increased levels of sTWEAK and IL-17 were observed in SLE and LN groups compared to healthy controls and non-LN groups, respectively. Significant positive associations were observed between serum TWEAK and IL-17 levels and systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index (SLEDAI), proteinuria, nephritis activity index, and some clinical manifestations (P<0.05). Discriminating the ability of the studied cytokines were not better than the utility of any markers individually. Conclusion: The serum levels of TWEAK and IL-17 in the SLE and LN groups were significantly higher than the control group and both markers were indicative of the renal disease severity; therefore, they could possibly indicate renal involvement in the lupus patients.
Comparison efficacy and side effects of combined cystone and hydrochlorothiazide with cystone monotherapy in treatment and passage of upper urinary stones; a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mehrabi Sadrollah , Behnam Parisa , Manzouri Leila , Mehrabi Amir
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Urinary stones are one of the most common and painful diseases of humans after urinary tract infections and prostate diseases. Objectives: The aim of this study was comparing the efficacy and complications of combined cystone and hydrochlorothiazide with cystone monotherapy in the treatment of upper urinary stones. Patients and Methods: In this randomized clinical trial 80 patients older than 15 years old with renal and ureteral stones less than 10 mm after taking informed consent form were allocated randomly in one of two groups. Patients with azotemia, hydronephrosis, bothersome pain and pregnant women were excluded. In the first group, combinations of cystone and hydrochlorothiazide tablets (every 12 hours, two 100 mg cystone and 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide) were prescribed. In the second group, cystone were prescribed as the first group. One month later, patients were followed by kidney, ureter, and bladder x-ray (KUB) and ultrasonography and the success of treatment was determined by changing the size of stones and report of stone passage by the patients. All data were collected and analyzed by SPSS software version 23 and statistical tests. Results: The mean age of the patients in combined and single groups were 48.02±13.72 and 44.15 ± 14.86(P = 0.24) years respectively. The mean size of stone after treatment in two groups was 1.72±0.98 and 1.85±0.78 mm respectively (P=0.53). Regarding efficacy of combined and single group, more than 90% of the patients reported stones passage after the intervention (P=0.06). There were no significant differences in mean blood urea (P=0.38) and serum creatinine (P=0.53) after treatment in two groups. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that combination of cystone and hydrochlorothiazide do not increase the efficacy of cystone in treatment and passage of urinary stones, although in both groups stone passage significantly increased.
Impact of oxygen therapy to ameliorate contrast-induced nephropathy in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing emergency angiography; a double-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Zarouk Ahimahalle Tahere , Amirfarhangi Abdollah , Jabbari Mosadegh , Jenabi Aria , Bagherzadegan Hadia , Noghabaei Giti
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the major causes of acute kidney injury. Objectives: Regarding an increase in mortality and morbidity in patients with CIN, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of oxygen therapy in prevention of the CIN in individuals with acute coronary syndrome undergoing emergent angiography. Patients and Methods: This study was a double-blinded clinical trial with control group (parallel design), randomized, and with a sample size of 204 individuals conducted on male or female patients over 35 years old and suspected of coronary artery disease undergoing emergent angiography refereed to Rasoul Akram hospital in 2018. Participants were divided into 2 groups (supplementary oxygen and oxygen-free groups). The first group received two to three liters of oxygen per minute from 10 minutes before the start of the procedure until the end of the procedure, and the second group inhaled the oxygen in the room air. Arterial blood gas (ABG) was taken prior to receiving oxygen and at the end of the procedure. Serum creatinine level was tested for all individuals before and 48 hours after the procedure. Results: The mean age in intervention and control groups was 61.66 ± 14.64 years and 60.49 ± 11.59 years, respectively (P=0.54). Mean glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and serum creatinine before and after angiography was not significantly different (P>0.05). There was a significant difference between the two genders regarding the development of CIN (P=0.002), which was higher in women from that of men. Female gender was a strong risk factor and approximately increased four times the risk of CIN (OR = 4.1; (P=0.001). History of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension (HTN) also produced such a situation (OR = 22.37; P=0.007). Conclusion: According to the results, oxygen therapy has no effect on the occurrence of CIN. It is also found that female gender, history of CKD and hypertension are risk factors for CIN.
Role of interleukin-18 and plasma B-type natriuretic peptide in predicting requirement of kidney replacement therapy and/or mortality in individuals with acute heart disorders
Authors: Hamzić-Mehmedbašić Aida , Rebić Damir , Valjevac Amina , Čubro Hajrunisa , Durak Nalbantić Azra , Herenda Vedad , Kulo Ćesić Aida
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Although many predictive tools have already been developed, efforts are still proceeding to identify a reliable biomarker to predict the prognosis of the patients with acute heart disorders. Objectives: The aim was to evaluate the role of renal injury biomarkers (serum cystatin C, serum and urine interleukin-18, IL-18) and heart failure biomarkers (plasma B-type natriuretic peptide, BNP) in the prediction of the postdischarge requirement of renal replacement therapy (RRT) and/or 6-month mortality in patients with acute heart disorders. Patients and Methods: In patients diagnosed with acute heart disorders (acute heart failure [AHF] and/or acute coronary syndrome [ACS]) and admitted to the intensive care units, baseline clinical parameters, renal and cardiac biomarkers were determined. Patients were followed up for 6 months. The composite outcome was the postdischarge requirement of RRT and/or 6-month mortality. Results: Of 120 patients, 5.8% continued RRT after discharge. The 6-month mortality was 20%. Cox logistic regression analysis showed that urine IL-18 (P=0.021), plasma BNP (P=0.046), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score (P=0.002), and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (P=0.045) were independent predictors of the postdischarge requirement of RRT and/or 6-month mortality. For predicting RRT and/or 6-month mortality, using urine IL-18 cutoff value of 29.1 pg/mL showed 66.7% sensitivity and 67.7% specificity (area under the curve, AUC 0.70, P=0.003), while using plasma BNP cutoff value of 881.6 pg/mL showed 66.7% sensitivity and 70.8% specificity (AUC 0.76, P<0.001). Conclusion: Urine IL-18 and plasma BNP are independently predictive for the postdischarge requirement of RRT and/or 6-month mortality in patients with acute heart disorders.
Prevention of kidney injury after myocardial ischemia reperfusion is achievable with short-term protein restriction
Authors: Hashemi Baran , Maleki Majid , Darbandi Azar Amir , Zare Morteza , Mazloomi Seyed Mohammad , Naderi Nasim
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Kidney injury is a serious complication after cardiovascular surgery. Left ventricular dysfunction, pre-operative kidney dysfunction and inflammation can predict kidney injury after myocardial reperfusion. Objectives: We aimed to study whether short-term protein restriction (PR) would influence blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels after myocardial reperfusion injury. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats fed with either AIN-93M or AIN-93M protein restricted diet one week before myocardial reperfusion injury. After surgery, feeding continued with AIN-93M for 1 week. Results: BUN levels increased significantly compared to the pre-operative level in the control group (P=0.03) and decreased significantly in the protein-restricted group (P=0.01). Multivariate analysis showed that PR through its effect on blood glucose (β=1.2, 95% CI=0.1- 2.34), IL-6 (β=-2.22, 95% CI=-3.9–-0.54) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (β=-1.21, 95% CI=-2.34- 0.09) was able to protect the kidney from myocardial reperfusion. Conclusion: Short-term PR through modulating pre-operative IL-6, post-operative blood glucose levels and LVEF could prevent kidney injury after myocardial reperfusion injury.
Apolipoprotein L1 associated nephropathy; an overview
Authors: Akhavan Sepahi Mohsen , Bhaskar LVKS , Tolouian Audrey , Tolouian Ramin
Published: February 2020

Genetic variants of apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) have been recognized as a risk factor for kidney disease in people of African ancestry. APOL1 mediate renal damage in podocytes through necrosis, apoptosis and pyroptosis processes. APOL1 gene contains G1 and G2 alleles that mediate in increasing risk of renal disorders in African Americans. People who carry APOL1 risk alleles have a three to four-fold increase risk for non-diabetic renal disease (NDRD), Idiopathic focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN). Therefore, identifying genetic factors involved in the pathogenesis of renal disorders, including APOL1 risk variants, may help to improve our understanding of kidney problems.