bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early life bacterial succession under different diet regime Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.)
Authors: Nikouli Eleni , Kormas Konstantinos , Jin Yang , Olsen Yngvar , Bakke Ingrid , Vadstein Olav
Published: November 2020

Backgound: The present study investigated the effect of different lipid source in the feed on the colonization and the bacterial succession in early life stages (fertilized eggs until 93 days post first feeding) of S. salar. The two diets used in this study, FD (fish oil based diet) and VD (vegetable oil based diet), were formulated to cover the fish nutritional requirements and except the lipid source the components were identical between them.Hindgut samples collected at 0, 35, 65 and 93 days post first feeding (dpff). Moreover, fertilized eggs, yolk sac larvae, rearing water and feed were also sampled in order to assess a possible contribution of their microbiota to the colonization of the gut. To analyze the composition of the bacterial communities, the Illumina MiSeq platform was used. Results: S. salar growth variables (mean wet weight and total length) did not differ significantly during the experiment (p> 0.05) across replicate tanks and between dietary treatments. The analysis of the 16S rDNA sequencing data revealed a total of 4548 unique OTUs, affiliated in 21 bacterial phyla. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes were the dominant bacterial phyla. 13 OTUs were shared among all S. salar samples independent of life stage and diet treatment. Similarity percentages analysis (SIMPER) based on Bray–Curtis distance, showed that the average dissimilarity among the groups of the same life stages was 76.0%, whereas the average dissimilarity within groups of the same dietary treatment was 78.5% (FD) and 83.6% (VD). Conclusion: Feeding on either fish oil or vegetable oil-based diets, did not result in significant differences in the intestinal microbiota. The composition of gut microbiota did not differ significantly between the two dietary treatments, but changed with age, and each stage was characterized by different dominant bacteria. These OTUs are related to species that provide different functions and have been isolated from a variety of environments. Finally, this study revealed the occurrence of a core microbiota independent of the studied life stages and diet during the early life stages of Atlantic salmon.
Salivary Cortisol and Infrared Thermographic Ocular Temperature Use as Biomarkers during Endurance Competitions
Authors: Mira Monica Cardoso de , Lamy Elsa , Santos Rute , Williams Jane , Pinto Mafalda Vaz , Martins Pedro , Rodrigues Patrícia , Marlin David
Published: November 2020

Objective quantification of effort and distress during endurance rides through biomarkers could help manage competitions more effectively and monitor horse welfare through an evidence-based approach. This study aimed to determine if salivary cortisol (SC) and ocular temperature measured by infrared thermography (IRTOT) are related to the outcome in endurance competitions. Saliva was collected and IRTOT measured from 61 and 14 horses, respectively, competing at qualifier 40km and 80km rides at Pre-Inspection (PI) and Vet Gates (VG). The variation of the baseline SC at the PI (median±IQR=0.27ng/dl±0.36) into VG1 was abrupt (93-256% rise) and in the next VGs either decreased or rose at a very modest level. Less experienced horses in the 40km ride showed a significantly (p<0.05) higher IRTOT (median±IQR=35.7ºC±1.4) at the PI, than their counterparts in the 80Km ride (median±IQR=35. ºC ±1.5). Horses classifying in the Top5, in the 40 km ride category had significantly (p=0.05) higher SC levels (median±IQR=0.90ng/ml ±0.61) at the PI, than horses positioned from 10th position on (median±IQR = 0.16ng/ml ±0.40). A lower IRTOT in the PI was correlated with a better placement (p>0.05) and those in the Top5 (median±IQR = 33.9ºC ±0.0) had a higher variation (+10.65%) into the last VG. A 62% predictive value for elimination (80% sensibility and 82% specificity) where SC is higher than 0.23ng/ml is advanced. SC and IRTOT can be potentially used in association to characterise physical effort and emotional stress in endurance competitions, but its significance to performance has to be put in context with the competition level.
Detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Authors: Oka Shomi , Higuchi Takashi , Furukawa Hiroshi , Shimada Kota , Hashimoto Atsushi , Matsui Toshihiro , Tohma Shigeto
Published: November 2020

Objectives: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the outbreak of COVID-19 was reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Serological test is conducted to discriminate prior infection of SARS-CoV-2. The influence of auto-antibodies on the results of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was investigated in a few studies. Here, we investigated whether the results of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies would be modified in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: Patients with RA were recruited at Sagamihara National Hospital from July 2014 to October 2015 (n=38, 2014 cohort) and at Tokyo National Hospital from June to October 2020 (n=93, 2020 cohort). Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were measured in collected sera from these RA patients by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) or immunochromatographic assay (ICA). Results: Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were not detected in all the samples form RA patients in both cohorts by the ECLIA. However, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were detected in the serum samples from three (7.9%) in 2014 cohort by the ICA and fifteen (16.1%) in 2020 cohort. The IgM rheumatoid factor levels were increased in RA patients with IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies by ICA compared with RA without any anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (mean ± standard deviation [IU/ml], 1223.0 ± 1308.7 vs. 503.6 ± 1947.2, P=0.0101). The levels of IgG rheumatoid factor were also upregulated in RA patients with IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies by ICA (4.0 ± 0.7 vs. 2.4 ± 0.9, P=0.0013). Conclusion: The results of IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody by the ICA would be modified by IgM or IgG rheumatoid factors in RA patients.
Post-breastfeeding stress response and breastfeeding self-efficacy as modifiable predictors of exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Shiraishi Mie , Matsuzaki Masayo , Kurihara Shoko , Iwamoto Maki , Shimada Mieko
Published: November 2020

Background: The rate of exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum is only 50% in Japan. In order to increase this rate, we aimed to examine modifiable factors related to exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum by focusing on breastfeeding-related and psychosocial variables at 1 month postpartum. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a secondary medical care center in Osaka, Japan from February 2017 to October 2018. Demographic variables, infant feeding modality, breastfeeding-related variables, and psychosocial variables were obtained using questionnaires at 1 month postpartum. Daytime salivary cortisol levels before and after breastfeeding at 1 month postpartum were measured as a biological marker for stress responses associated with breastfeeding. Each infant’s feeding modality was re-assessed at 3 months postpartum. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to examine factors affecting exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum. Results: Of the 104 participants, 61 reported exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum. The following factors were significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum: multiparity (adjusted odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: 11.13, 2.08–59.59), having a university degree (5.25, 1.04–26.53), no plan to return to work by 6 months postpartum (0.02, 0.00–0.46), and exclusive breastfeeding (42.84, 6.05–303.52), lower cortisol level after breastfeeding (0.00, 0.00–0.02), and higher breastfeeding self-efficacy scale score (1.07, 1.00–1.14) at 1 month postpartum. In parity-specific analyses, exclusive breastfeeding (25.33, 4.75–134.98) and lower cortisol level after breastfeeding (0.00, 0.00–0.21) at 1 month postpartum in primiparous women, and lower cortisol level after breastfeeding (0.00, 0.00–0.94), higher breastfeeding self-efficacy score (1.18, 1.05–1.32), and absence of breast complications (0.09, 0.01-0.82) at 1 month postpartum in multiparous women were associated with exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum.Conclusions: Stress levels after breastfeeding, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and the presence of breast complications could be modifiable factors associated with subsequent exclusive breastfeeding. Further research is needed to examine whether approaches to reducing breastfeeding-related stress, improving breastfeeding self-efficacy, and preventing breast complications during lactation are effective to increase exclusive breastfeeding practices.
Physical therapy interventions for older people with vertigo, dizziness and balance disorders addressing mobility and participation: a systematic review
Authors: Regauer Verena , Seckler Eva , Müller Martin , Bauer Petra
Published: November 2020

Background: Vertigo, dizziness and balance disorders (VDB) are among the most relevant contributors to the burden of disability among older adults living in the community and associated with immobility, limitations of activities of daily living and decreased participation. The aim of this study was to identify the quality of evidence of physical therapy interventions that address mobility and participation in older patients with VDB and to characterize the used primary and secondary outcomes. Methods: A systematic search via MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PEDro, forward citation tracing and hand search was conducted initially in 11/2017 and updated in 7/2019. We included individual and cluster-randomized controlled trials and trials with quasi-experimental design, published between 2007 and 2017/2019 and including individuals ≥ 65 years with VDB. Physical therapy and related interventions were reviewed with no restrictions to outcome measurement. Screening of titles, abstracts and full texts, data extraction and critical appraisal was conducted by two independent researchers. The included studies were heterogeneous in terms of interventions and outcome measures. Therefore, a narrative synthesis was conducted. Results: A total of 20 randomized and 2 non-randomized controlled trials with 1,876 patients met the inclusion criteria. The included studies were heterogeneous in terms of complexity of interventions, outcome measures and methodological quality. Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) was examined in twelve studies, computer-assisted VR (CAVR) in five, Tai Chi as VR (TCVR) in three, canal repositioning manoeuvres (CRM) in one and manual therapy (MT) in one study. Mixed effects were found regarding body structure/function and activities/participation. Quality of life and/or falls were assessed, with no differences between groups. VR is with moderate quality of evidence superior to usual care to improve balance, mobility and symptoms. Conclusion: To treat older individuals with VDB, VR in any variation and in addition to CRMs seems to be effective. High-quality randomized trials need to be conducted to inform clinical decision making.
Attendants’ experience with the Personalized citizen assistance for social participation (APIC)
Authors: Gagnon Karine , Levasseur Mélanie
Published: November 2020

Background: To promote healthy aging, the social participation needs of older adults must be better met. Previous studies have shown the benefits of the Personalized citizen assistance for social participation (APIC), but few explored its influence on attendants. This study explored the assistance experience of attendants in providing the APIC to older adults with disabilities.Methods: A qualitative design inspired by a phenomenological approach was used with six female attendants who participated in individual interviews.Results: The APIC attendants felt useful, developed meaningful relationships with their older adults, and improved their self-knowledge. Attendants had the opportunity to reflect on their lives and self-aging. They contributed to older adults’ functional independence, motivation, and participation in social activities. Attendants encountered challenges related to withdrawn behavior in older adults, such as refusing to participate in activities.Conclusions: Considering the identified benefits of the APIC for attendants, further studies should explore personalized assistance to preserve older adults’ health.
Human CD133-positive hematopoietic progenitor cells enhance the malignancy of breast cancer cells
Authors: zhang zhe , zheng qing lian , liu yong hui , sun lian qing , han ping ping , wang rui , zhao jiao , hu shan , zhao xin han
Published: November 2020

Background: Human CD133+ hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) are a specific subset of cells that can regulate tumor malignancy. However, the mechanism by which CD133+ HPCs affect the malignancy of human breast cancer has not been reported. Methods: CD133+ HPCs were isolated and purified from human umbilical cord blood (UCB) .We used in vitro culture of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, and MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells in nude mice to evaluate whether CD133+ HPCs affected the apoptosis, proliferation, invasion and epithelial mesenchymal transition EMT of breast cancer cells. Results: Co-culture with CD133+ HPCs, but not UCB CD133- cells, promoted the proliferation of human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, accompanied by reducing in vitro spontaneous apoptosis. Co-administration of these two lines with CD133+ HPCs significantly enhanced the growth of implanted breast cancer in vivo. Furthermore, co-culture with CD133+ HPCs, enhanced the invasion of breast cancer cells, N-cadherin and Vimentin expression, but reduced E-cadherin expression in breast cancer cells. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that CD133+ HPCs enhance the malignancy of breast cancer cells by attenuating spontaneous apoptosis and promoting the process of epithelial mesenchymal transition. These findings may provide new insights into the role of human CD133+ HPCs in breast cancer pathogenesis. Therefore, CD133+ HPCs may be a new therapeutic target for inhibiting the progression of breast cancer.
Hsa_circ_0123190 acts as a competitive endogenous RNA to regulate APLNR expression by sponging hsa-miR-483-3p in lupus nephritis
Authors: Zhang Chunyi , Gao Congcong , Di Xueqi , Cui Siwan , Liang Wenfang , Sun Wenbo , Yao Menghui , Liu Shengyun , Zheng Zhaohui
Published: November 2020

Background: Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most severe complications of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Circular RNAs(circRNAs) can act as competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) to regulate gene transcription, which is involved in mechanism of many diseases. However, the role of circRNA in lupus nephritis has been rarely reported. In this study, we aim to investigate the clinical value of circRNAs and explore the mechanism of circRNA involvement in the pathogenesis of LN. Methods: Renal tissues from three untreated LN patients and three normal controls (NCs) were used to identify differently expressed circRNAs by next-generation sequencing (NGS). Validated assays were used by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The interactions between circRNA and miRNA, or miRNA and mRNA were further determined by luciferase reporter assay. The extent of renal fibrosis between the two groups was assessed by Masson-trichome staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. Results: 159 circRNAs were significantly dysregulated in LN patients compared with NCs. The expression of hsa_circ_0123190 was significantly decreased in renal tissues of patients with LN (P =0.014). Bio-informatic analysis and luciferase reporter assay illustrated that hsa_circ_0123190 can act as a sponge for hsa-miR-483-3p, which was also validated to interact with APLNR. APLNR mRNA expression was related with chronicity index (CI) of LN (P =0.033, R 2 =0.452). Moreover, the fibrotic-related protein, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), which was regulated by APLNR, was more pronounced in the LN group (P =0.018). Conclusion: Hsa_circ_0123190 may function as a ceRNA to regulate APLNR expression by sponging hsa-miR-483-3p in LN.
Predictors of three-month mortality among hospitalized older adults in Togo
Authors: GBEASOR-KOMLANVI Fifonsi Adjidossi , TCHANKONI Martin Kouame , BAKOUBAYI Akila Wimima , LOKOSSOU Matthieu Yaovi , SADIO Arnold , ZIDA-COMPAORE Wendpouiré Ida Carine , DJIBRIL Mohaman , BELO Mofou , AGBONON Amegnona , EKOUEVI Didier Koumavi
Published: November 2020

Background: Assessing hospital mortality and its predictors is important as some of these can be prevented through appropriate interventions. Few studies have reported hospital mortality data among older adults in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of this study was to assess the mortality and associated factors among hospitalized older adults in Togo.Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study from February 2018 to September 2019 among patients ≥50 years admitted in medical and surgical services of six hospitals in Togo. Data were recorded during hospitalization and through telephone follow-up survey within 90 days after admission. The main outcome was all-cause mortality at 3 months. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analyses were performed to assess predictors of mortality.Results: The median age of the 650 older adults included in the study period was 61 years, IQR: [55-70] and at least one comorbidity was identified in 59.7% of them. The all-cause mortality rate of 17.2% (95%CI: 14.4-20.4) and the majority of death (93.7%) occurred in hospital. Overall survival rate was 85.5% and 82.8% after 30 and 90 days of follow-up, respectively. Factors associated with 3-month mortality were the hospital level in the health pyramid, hospitalization service, length of stay, functional impairment, depression and malignant diseases.Conclusion: Togolese health system needs to adjust its response to an aging population in order to provide the most effective care.
A javuló iskolázottság hatása az élettartamokra Magyarországon
Authors: Bálint Lajos
Published: November 2020

A kilencvenes évek elején epidemiológiai fordulatra került sor Magyarországon, a rákövetkező évtizedekben a népesség várható élettartama folyamatosan emelkedett. A legtöbb tanulmány az életkilátások javulását az egészségügyi ellátás színvonalában bekövetkezett változásokkal, korszerűbb terápiás eljárásokkal magyarázza. Mások az életszínvonal javulását, az egészségmagatartási szokásokés attitűdök módosulásának a fontosságát emelik ki. Az iskolázottság és a halandóság között jól dokumentáltan erős kapcsolat van. Ennek ellenére a változások magyarázatakor kevésbé hangsúlyozott az a tény, hogy az elmúlt évtizedekben jelentősen javult a magyar társadalom iskolázottsága. Nőtt az érettségizettek és a diplomások, míg jelentősen csökkent az alapfokú végzettséggel sem rendelkezőkaránya. A demográfiában ismert dekomponálási technikát alkalmazva az élettartamok változását felbontottuk a népesség összetételében (P-hatás) és a csoportok mortalitásában (M-hatás) bekövetkezett változásra. A népesség struktúrájában bekövetkezett kedvező változás a nőknél 1,5, a férfiaknál 1,45 évveljárult hozzá az élettartam 1990 és 2011 között tapasztalt növekedéséhez. Úgy is fogalmazhatunk, hogy a vizsgált időszak alatt bekövetkező élettartam-javulásból a populációs hatás 8,5 naptári év fejlődésével volt egyenértékű a nőknél, és 6,5 évnyi éves átlagos javulást tett ki a férfiaknál. A tanulmány legfontosabbüzenete az, hogy az oktatáspolitika egyben rendkívül hatékony egészségpolitikai eszköz is. Az iskolázottság olyan tudás megszerzését teszi lehetővé, ami segítségünkre van a betegségek megelőzésében és kezelésében. Fontos, hogy a döntéshozók és az egészségügyben dolgozó szakemberek megértsék az oktatás jelentőségét, amely nem csak az életkilátások tartós javulását eredményezi, de egyúttal képes a társadalmi-gazdasági egyenlőtlenségeket is mérsékelni.
A kevés gyermek közgazdasági szükségszerűség, vagy csak egy rossz mechanizmus következménye?
Authors: Banyár József
Published: November 2020

A Demográfia folyóirat 2019. évi 4. számában jelent meg Mihályi Péter gondolatgazdag, nagy irodalmi tájékozottságról árulkodó tanulmánya, amelyben a gyermekvállalásról ír (Mihályi, 2019a). A cikk1 méltán lehet a témáról szóló szakirodalomban állandó hivatkozás mind megoldásai mind elemzési technikáimiatt. Egyet lehet érteni azzal, hogy „Előremutatónak tartom, hogy Mihályi Péter modell felállításával gondolja végig és mutatja be a gyermekvállalásra ható tényezőket.” (Pulay, 2020)
Evaluation of the Therapeutic Effect of Lycoramine on Alzheimer’s Disease in Mouse Model
Authors: Kiris Irem , Basar Merve Karayel , Sahin Betul , Gurel Busra , Coskun Julide , Mroczek Tomasz , Baykal Ahmet Tarik
Published: November 2020

Background::

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the leading health problems characterized
by the accumulation of Aβ and hyperphosphorylated tau that account for the senile
plaque formations causing extensive cognitive decline. Many of the clinical diagnoses
of Alzheimer’s disease are made in the late stages, when the pathological changes
have already progressed.

Objective::

The objective of this study is to evaluate the promising therapeutic effects of a
natural compound, lycoramine, which has been shown to have therapeutic potential in
several studies and to understand its mechanism of action on the molecular level via differential
protein expression analyses.

Method::

Lycoramine and galantamine, an FDA approved drug used in the treatment of
mild to moderate AD, were administered to 12 month-old 5xFAD mice. Effects of the
compounds were investigated by Morris water maze, immunohistochemistry and label-
free differential protein expression analyses.

Results::

Here we demonstrated the reversal of cognitive decline via behavioral testing
and the clearance of Aβ plaques. Proteomics analysis provided in-depth information on
the statistically significant protein perturbations in the cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum
sections to hypothesize the possible clearance mechanisms of the plaque formation
and the molecular mechanism of the reversal of cognitive decline in a transgenic mouse
model. Bioinformatics analyses showed altered molecular pathways that can be linked
with the reversal of cognitive decline observed after lycoramine administration but not
with galantamine.

Conclusion::

Lycoramine shows therapeutic potential to halt and reverse cognitive decline
at the late stages of disease progression, and holds great promise for the treatment of
Alzheimer’s disease.
EndMT: Potential Target of H2S against Atherosclerosis
Authors: Liu Hui-Ting , Zhou Zhi-Xiang , Ren Zhong , Yang Sai , Liu Lu-Shan , Wang Zuo , Wei Dang-Heng , Ma Xiao-Feng , Ma Yun , Jiang Zhi-Sheng
Published: November 2020

Atherosclerosis is a chronic arterial wall illness that forms atherosclerotic plaques within the arteries. Plaque formation and endothelial dysfunction are atherosclerosis' characteristics. It is believed that the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis mainly include endothelial cell damage, lipoprotein deposition, inflammation and fibrous cap formation, but its molecular mechanism has not been elucidated. Therefore, protecting the vascular endothelium from damage is one of the key factors against atherosclerosis. The factors and processes involved in vascular endothelial injury are complex. Finding out the key factors and mechanisms of atherosclerosis caused by vascular endothelial injury is an important target for reversing and preventing atherosclerosis. Changes in cell adhesion are the early characteristics of EndMT, and cell adhesion is related to vascular endothelial injury and atherosclerosis. Recent researches have exhibited that endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) can urge atherosclerosis' progress, and it is expected that inhibition of EndMT will be an object for anti-atherosclerosis. We speculate whether inhibition of EndMT can become an effective target for reversing atherosclerosis by improving cell adhesion changes and vascular endothelial injury. Studies have shown that H2S has a strong cardiovascular protective effect. As H2S has anti- inflammatory, anti-oxidant, inhibiting foam cell formation, regulating ion channels and enhancing cell adhesion and endothelial functions, the current research on H2S in cardiovascular aspects is increasing, but anti-atherosclerosis's molecular mechanism and the function of H2S in EndMT have not been explicit. In order to explore the mechanism of H2S against atherosclerosis, to find an effective target to reverse atherosclerosis, we sum up the progress of EndMT promoting atherosclerosis, and Hydrogen sulfide's potential anti- EndMT effect is discussed in this review.
The Potential Clinical Properties of Magnesium
Authors: Crisponi Guido , Fanni Daniela , Nurchi Valeria Marina , Cappai Rosita , Zoroddu Maria Antonietta , Gerosa Clara , Piras Monica , Faa Gavino
Published: November 2020

:

A significant percentage of costs in pharmaceutical markets is devoted to supplements
due to the confidence of consumers in the beneficial effects of these products.
Magnesium is one of the supplements with enduring and increasing popularity. According
to what is reported online, this metal ion can cure or prevent almost all kinds of diseases.
This review aims at illustrating a series of scientifically demonstrated cases in
which magnesium was used in clinical practice. Except for its ordinary use as antacid
and laxative, other ascertained uses, reported in scientific literature, consist of helping to
treat several diseases such as nocturnal leg cramps, pre-eclampsia, diabetes, depression,
Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, hypertension, some types of arrhythmias, asthma,
migraine headaches, epilepsy, cerebral haemorrhage, and stroke.

:

However, many of these promising uses of magnesium require further studies to define
the involved molecular mechanisms which should help establishing its uses in relation to
the prolonged use of supplements.
Effects of Probiotic Preparations on Inflammatory Cytokines in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Ting , Wang Xiaoxia , Li Rui , Zhang Zi Yuan , Fang Jingai , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To summarize and assess the effects of probiotic preparations on inflammatory
cytokine levels in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

Methods:

We searched through the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, China National
Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), and Wan
Fang databases for Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) that report the impact of probiotic preparations
on inflammatory cytokines in CKD patients. Outcomes were composed of serum levels of CReactive
Protein (CRP), Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), serum urea, creatinine,
uric acid, Para-Cresol Sulfate (PCS), and Indoxyl-Sulfate (IS). The Mean Differences (MDs)
with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were considered as effect estimates. Sensitivity analysis and Egger’s
linear regression test were performed to evaluate the stability of results and publication bias. This
study was registered with PROSPERO number CRD42020176557.

Results & Discussion:

Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence showed that serum CRP
levels were decreased in the intervention group (WMD, -12.29, 95% CI, -16.41 to -8.16, p = 0). The
IL-6 was significantly reduced only in the prebiotic group (SMD, -0.73, 95% CI, -1.3 to -0.16, p =
0.012). However, no reduction was observed in TNF-α (SMD, -0.07, 95% CI, -0.51 to 0.38, p = 0.772).
Moreover, there was no significant change in serum uremic toxin, including creatine, urea, uric acid,
PCS, and IS.

Conclusions:

Probiotic preparations decrease the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines in CKD patients
but do not affect the serum uremic toxin levels. The results of this meta-analysis suggest essential
guidance for treatment decisions in clinical practice.
The Investigation into Neurotoxicity Mechanisms of Nonylphenol: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lotfi Mandana , Hasanpour Amir Hosseyn , Moghadamnia Ali Akbar , Kazemi Sohrab
Published: November 2020

Background:

Nonylphenol (NP), a chemical compound widely used in industry, is the
result of the nonylphenol ethoxylate decomposition and it is known as an estrogen-like compound.
Numerous studies and researches have shown that it has many destructive functions of various organs
such as the brain. This toxicant causes oxidative stress in the cortex and hippocampus cells,
which are two essential regions to preserve memory and learning in the brain.

Methods:

This review examines recent findings to better understanding the mechanisms of NP
neurotoxicity. We used Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases to find articles focused on
the destructive effects of NP on the oxidative stress pathway and its defense mechanisms.

Results:

NP has potential human health hazards associated with gestational, peri- and postnatal
exposure. NP can disrupt brain homeostasis in different ways, such as activation of inflammatory
factors in brain especially in hippocampus and cortex, disruption of the cell cycle, changes in neuron,
dendrites and synapses morphology, disruption of extra and intracellular calcium ion balance
and also memory and learning disorders.
1'-methylspiro[indoline-3,4'-piperidine] Derivatives: Design, Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Anti-tumor Activity Studies
Authors: Li Junjian , Ye Lianbao , Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Ying , Jin Xiaobao , Li Ming
Published: November 2020

Background:

Spirocyclic indoline compounds widely exist in numerous natural products
and synthetic molecules with significant biological activities. In recent years, these kinds of compounds
have attracted extensive attention as potent anti-tumor agents in the fields of pharmacology
and chemistry.

Objective:

In this study, we focused on designing and synthesizing novel 1'-methylspiro[indoline-
3,4'-piperidine] derivatives, which were evaluated by preliminary bioactivity experiment in vitro
and molecular docking.

Methods and Materials:

The key intermediate 1'-methylspiro[indoline-3,4'-piperidine] (B4) reacted
with benzenesulfonyl chloride with different substituents under alkaline condition to obtain its derivatives
(B5-B10). We evaluated their antiproliferative activities against A549, BEL-7402 and HeLa
cell lines by MTT assay. We performed the CDOCKER module in Accelrys Discovery Studio 2.5.5
for molecular docking of compound B5, and investigated the binding modes of compound B5 with
three different target proteins.

Results:

The results indicated that compounds B4-B10 exhibited good antiproliferative activities
against the above three types of cell lines, in which compound B5 with chloride atom as electronwithdrawing
substituent on a phenyl ring showed the highest potency against BEL-7402 cell lines
(IC50=30.03±0.43 μg/mL). The results of molecular docking showed that the binding energies of the
prominent bioactive compound B5 with CDK, c-Met, and EGFR protein crystals are -44.3583
kcal/mol, -38.3292 kcal/mol, -33.3653 kcal/mol, respectively.

Conclusion:

1'-methylspiro[indoline-3,4'-piperidine] and its six derivatives were synthesized and
evaluated against BEL-7402, A 549, and Hela cell lines. Compound B5 showed significant inhibition
on BEL-7402 cell lines. Molecular docking assays revealed that B5 as a ligand showed strong
affinity and appropriate binding pose on the amino acid residues in active sites of the tested targets,
which encourage us to conduct further evaluation such as the kinase experiment.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Diarrheic Patients from Ahvaz, Southwestern Iran
Authors: Karami Saina , Beiromvand Molouk , Kohansal Kobra
Published: November 2020

Background:

Intestinal parasitic infections are one of the most common infections in humans, particularly in re-source-poor communities. Gastrointestinal parasites, specially protozoa can lead to diarrhea, malabsorption, and anemia. The majority of parasitic diarrhea is caused by Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia duodenalis, and Cryptosporidium spp.
The present study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasites among diarrheic patients referred to the Shahid Rajaee Polyclinic, Ahvaz, southwestern Iran.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites among 250 diarrheic pa-tients using direct smear, formalin-ether concentration, ziehl- neelsen, and trichrome staining.

Results:

The results indicated that 34.4% (86/250) of the patients were infected with pathogenic parasites. Giardia duode-nalis with an occurrence of 18.8% (47/250) and Cryptosporidium spp. with a frequency of 2.8% (7/250) had the highest and lowest infection rates, respectively. Blastocystis hominis with a frequency of 15.2% (38/250) showed the highest prevalence rate after G. duodenalis. Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was observed in 3 (1.2%) of diarrheic patients. The age group 1−10 years old was the most frequently infected group (27.9%). We could not find a significant association between the source of drinking water and intestinal parasitic infections (p= 0.912).

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that G. duodenalis was the predominant parasite found among the patients. The re-sults revealed that intestinal parasites were one of the main health problems in the region.
The Potential Role of Pro-Inflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines in Epilepsy Pathogenesis
Authors: Kamali Ali N. , Zian Zeineb , Bautista José M. , Hamedifar Haleh , Hossein-Khannazer Nikoo , Hosseinzadeh Ramin , Yazdani Reza , Azizi Gholamreza
Published: November 2020

Within the pathophysiology of epilepsy, as a chronic brain disorder, the involvement of
neuroinflammation has been extensively implied. Recurrent seizures of epilepsy have been associated
with elevated levels of immune mediators that seem to play a pivotal role in triggering them.
Neurons, glia, and endothelial cells of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) take part in such inflammatory
processes by expressing receptors of associated mediators through autocrine and paracrine stimulation
of intracellular signaling pathways. In this milieu, elevated cytokine levels in serum and
brain tissue have been reported in patients with an epileptic profile. Noteworthy, interleukin
(IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are the proinflammatory cytokines mostly
associated, in literature, with the pathogenesis of epilepsies. In this review, we examine the function
of these cytokines in connection with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), IL-8, IL-12,
IL-18, and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP) as potential proinflammatory mediators in the
neuropathology of epilepsy.
Technological Aids for Deaf and Mute in The Modern World
Authors: Mehra Vasu , Pandey Dhiraj , Rastogi Aayush , Singh Aditya , Singh Harsh Preet
Published: November 2020

Background:

People suffering from hearing and speaking disabilities have a few ways of communicating with other people. One of these is to communicate through the use of sign language.

Objective:

Developing a system for sign language recognition becomes essential for deaf as well as a mute person. The recognition system acts as a translator between a disabled and an able person. This eliminates the hindrances in exchange of ideas. Most of the existing systems are very poorly designed with limited support for the needs of their day to day facilities.

Methods:

The proposed system embedded with gesture recognition capability has been introduced here which extracts signs from a video sequence and displays them on screen. On the other hand, a speech to text as well as text to speech system is also introduced to further facilitate the grieved people. To get the best out of human computer relationship, the proposed solution consists of various cutting-edge technologies and Machine Learning based sign recognition models which have been trained by using Tensor Flow and Keras library.

Result:

The proposed architecture works better than several gesture recognition techniques like background elimination and conversion to HSV because of sharply defined image provided to the model for classification. The results of testing indicate reliable recognition systems with high accuracy that includes most of the essential and necessary features for any deaf and dumb person in his/her day to day tasks.

Conclusion:

It’s the need of current technological advances to develop reliable solutions which can be deployed to assist deaf and dumb people to adjust to normal life. Instead of focusing on a standalone technology, a plethora of them have been introduced in this proposed work. Proposed Sign Recognition System is based on feature extraction and classification. The trained model helps in identification of different gestures.
Emotional Intelligence and Uncertainty among Undergraduate Nursing Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak: A Comparative Study
Authors: Hussien Rasha Mohammed , Elkayal Manal Mohamed , Shahin Mahmoud Abdul Hameed
Published: November 2020

Background:

Emotional intelligence is considered to be one factor that helps individuals control their feelings.

Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate the emotional intelligence and uncertainty among undergraduate nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.

Methods:

A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used on a convenience sample, consisting of 284 undergraduate nursing students at the Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University, Egypt, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, Taibah University, and Al-Ghad International Colleges, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Data were collected as responses to a questionnaire, which incorporated a sociodemographic datasheet, the Emotional Intelligence Scale, and the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale.

Results:

The results showed significant differences in emotional intelligence mean scores between Saudi nursing students, who scored higher than their Egyptian counterparts, whereas the uncertainty mean scores were significantly higher among nursing students in Egypt than those in Saudi Arabia. Students in Saudi Arabia were significantly more satisfied with online education and online exams compared with those in Egypt. A negative correlation was identified between emotional intelligence mean scores and uncertainty mean scores among nursing students.

Conclusion:

A focus on the concept of emotional intelligence during university education may assist in the establishment of a supportive environment that can reduce uncertainty among nursing students. Improving, updating, financing, and facilitating online education technology should be a focus of educational institutions and ministries of education worldwide.
Anticarcinogenic Effects of Capsaicin-Loaded Nanoparticles on In vitro Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hazem Noha M , ElKashef Wagdi F , El-Sherbiny Ibrahim M , Emam Ahmed A , Shaalan Dalia , Sobh Mohamed
Published: November 2020

Background::

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most frequent cancer worldwide
with a low overall survival due to high metastasis and recurrence rates. The aim of this study
is to assess and compare the possible anti-neoplastic effect of capsaicin and nanoformulated capsaicin
on in vitro HCC human cell line HepG2. The source of the cell line, including when and
from where it was obtained. Whether the cell line has recently been authenticated and by what
method. Whether the cell line has recently been tested for mycoplasma contamination.

Materials and Methods::

Capsaicin-loaded Trimethyl Chitosan Nanoparticles (CL TMCS NPs)
were synthesized by ionotropic gelation of cationic TMCS with capsaicin. The synthesized nanoparticles
were characterized through TEM, and zeta analyzer. Human hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cell
lines were cultured and treated with 50, 75 & 100 μM of Capsaicin (CAP), plain TMCS NPs and
CL-NPs as well as ethanol (control) for 24h and 48h. The induced effects were investigated by
flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry assay for Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase proteins and evaluating
gene expression levels of Bcl-2, Bax, and MDR-1 mRNA by real-time PCR.

Results::

Our results demonstrated that capsaicin- loaded NPs had the potential to significantly increase
capsaicin bioactivity compared with the plain capsaicin formulation either in inducing apoptosis
through altering expression of apoptotic regulators or modifying MDR-1 expression.

Conclusions::

TMCs nanoparticles investigated in this study may be a good drug delivery vehicle
for capsaicin. Application of capsaicin-loaded NPs in HCC management as an adjunct therapeutic
approach may be a novel strategy to improve the treatment efficacy and resistance of the conventionally
used chemotherapy.
COVID-19 Effect: Time to Change the Way of Research
Authors: Sharma Vikas
Published: November 2020

This perspective provides an insight or viewpoint about the current and future way of doing
research. The opinion includes the limitations of the research in the current scenario and the
possible ways to improve it.
Co-production of permafrost degradation impact assessment for permafrost environmental utilization and conservation
Authors: Iijima Yoshihiro
Published: November 2020

Permafrost plays a hugely significant role in sustaining the global climate for many reasons. As it thaws, gases (usually methane and carbon dioxide) that have lain trapped underneath the ice for millennia are released. These gases then enter the atmosphere and accelerate global warming
which leads to more permafrost degradation and it eventually becomes a problem which exacerbates itself. In recent times, the warming and thawing of the surface layer of the permafrost region in northeastern Eurasia has caused serious impacts on the living environment of local residents. In
many ways, the thawing of permafrost can be seen as a new natural disaster and, as such, it requires understanding from local populations to put measures in place to mitigate the effects. Associate Professor Yoshihiro Iijima is part of a international team of researchers investigating the
effects of climate change on the permafrost regions of Russia and Mongolia. The findings could help local populations introduce conservation activities to their societies
A study on the preservation situation and spatial characteristics of Japanese style garden built in Taiwan during the Japanese rule
Authors: Awano Takashi
Published: November 2020

Japanese well developed cultural and aesthetic styles have influenced architecture, décor and landscaping around the world. Japanese influence has been particularly marked in eastern Asian countries such as Taiwan, where the nation's colonisation efforts between 1895 and 1945
led to a trend for garden design and landscaping at the time to demonstrate strong characteristics of Japanese style. The gardens created during this time showed a unique blend of Japanese and Taiwanese influences not otherwise found in landscape architectural history. Associate Professor
Takashi Awano, from the Department of Landscape Architecture Science at Tokyo University of Agriculture, leads a study that looks into the preservation status, the construction and design processes and the characteristics of land allocation and design of Japanese gardens in palaces, official
residences and other key locations during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan
Molecular basis of adaptive evolution of sperm motility involved in in vivo fertilization of terrestrial animals
Authors: Watanabe Akihiko
Published: November 2020

One of the unifying traits of life on this planet is reproduction, or life's ability to make copies of itself. The mode of reproduction has evolved over time, having almost certainly begun with simple asexual reproduction when the ancestral single celled organism divided into two. Since
these beginnings' life has tried out numerous strategies, and perhaps one of the most important and successful has been sexual reproduction. This form of reproduction relies on the union of gametes, otherwise known as sperm and egg. Evolutionarily, sexual reproduction allows for greater adaptive
potential because the genes of two unique individuals have a chance to recombine and mix in order to produce a new individual. Unlike asexual reproduction which produces genetically-identical clones of the parent individual, sex produces offspring with novel genes and combinations of genes.
Therefore, in the face of new selective pressures there is a higher chance that one of these novel genetic profiles will produce an adaptation that is advantageous in the new circumstances. Dr Akihiko Watanabe is a reproductive biologist based in the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science
Yamagata University in Japan, he is currently working on three research projects; a comparative study on the signalling pathways for inducing sperm motility and acrosome reaction in amphibians, the mechanism behind the adaptive modification of sperm morphology and motility, and the origin
of sperm motility initiating substance (SMIS).
Engenharia finaceira
Authors: Lobo Carlos Augusto da Silveira
Published: November 2020

Nos cursos jurídicos, nenhuma informação recebemos sobre essas questões, não obstante essenciais à advocacia empresarial. Inicia-se a tarefa com a classificação das instituições de crédito. Classificam-se em três categorias: bancos de fomento, que se especializam nos créditos a longo prazo, vinculados à realização de projetos empresariais e governamentais em países em desenvolvimento; bancos de exportação e importação, que têm como objetivo primordial financiar o comércio exterior dos países a que pertencem; e bancos comerciais que, hoje em dia, atuam principalmente no campo do eurodólar.
O projeto na historia do financiamento internacional
Authors: Leite Cleantho Paiva
Published: November 2020

Simplificadamente, podem ser identificadas três etapas da evolução do projeto no quadro do financiamento internacional. Na primeira, temos o financiamento internacional de dois tipos: sem projeto nenhum, o simples empréstimo a país, como o empréstimo que o Brasil herdou de Portugal quando teve que assumir a independência, quer dizer, não havia qualquer projeto para obter aquele empréstimo. Entretanto, os projetos eram lançados no mercado para obtenção do financiamento. Todos se lembram, por exemplo, do projeto para o financiamento do Canal do Panamá, o financiamento de Suez, o financiamento das estradas de ferro nos países do Terceiro Mundo. Havia projetos com maior ou menor grau de seriedade, inclusive com contribuição para o vocabulário internacional; e o projeto começou a aparecer sob uma forma característica dessa primeira etapa do financiamento internacional.
Conservação e utilização racional dos recursos hídricos
Authors: Bursztyn Maria  Augusta Almeida
Published: November 2020

Fator condicionante na organização e desenvolvimento das sociedades humanas, a água é responsável, em grande parte, pelo fenômeno da maior concentração populacional nos vales dos grandes rios e nas regiões costeiras. Em função da renovação contínua da água através do ciclo hidrológico, ela é potencialmente inesgotável, fato que a diferencia dos outros recursos naturais, tais como petróleo, gás, carvão, etc. Estima-se que o volume total de água sobre a terra atinja aproximadamente 1.330 milhões de km3, o que representaria uma espessura de água de 2.600 m repartida sobre toda a superfície terrestre. Entretanto, as reservas mais facilmente utilizáveis são bem mais reduzidas: em primeiro lugar, 98% deste enorme volume são constituídos de água salgada (cuja dessalinização exige o emprego de uma tecnologia dispendiosa); em segundo lugar, grande parte das reservas mundiais de água doce (70%) se concentra sob a forma de gelo nas calotas polares e nos glaciares.