bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of 2-Isoxazoline Derivatives
Authors: Alshamari Asma , Al-Qudah Mahmoud , Hamadeh Fedaa , Al-Momani Lo’ay , Abu-Orabi Sultan
Published: August 2020

A series of derivatives of trans-3-(2,4,6-trimethoxy phenyl)-4,5-dihydro isoxazolo-4,5-bis(aroylcarbohydrazide) and of trans-3-(2,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl)4,5-dihydroisoxazolo-4,5-bis[carbonyl-(4’phenyl)thiosemi- carbazide (9) were synthesized from trans-3-(2,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-4,5-bis(hydrazenocarbonyl) Isoxazole (8). The structures of the Compounds were elucidated by elemental and spectral (IR, NMR, and MS) analysis. The compound 9 show activity against some bacterial species. Whereas, no activity was observed for compounds 10a, 10b and 10c against all bacterial species. The antioxidant activity of new compounds has been screened. Compound 9 showed higher antioxidant activity using the DPPH and ATBS method.
RNA Polymerase and Transcription Mechanism: Forefront of Physicochemical Study as Chemical Reactions
Authors: Shimamoto Nobuo , Imashimizu Masahiko
Published: August 2020

Transcriptional regulations have been widely studied as one of the main bridges between biology and other basic sciences as well as medicine. The traffic across it has been mostly unidirectional: chemistry and physics provided a lot of tools for biology, although the supply is now saturating. The traffic in opposite direction, the supply of subjects to develop chemistry and physics, has been only a little. However, if there are any, the supply will be at least from transcription, because the notion of chemical reaction is the strongest. This topic is aimed to increase the opposite traffic by introducing the forefront of physicochemical studies of transcription.
Monofocal Compression-Distraction Osteosynthesis in a Distal Femoral Nonunion Using a Magnetic Medullary Nail
Authors: Scolaro John A. , Mark Bryan J.
Published: August 2020

Case:

A 65-year-old woman presented with a malaligned, shortened supracondylar distal femoral nonunion. An acute medial closing wedge osteotomy was performed through the nonunion and compressed with a retrograde magnetically controlled intramedullary nail. Osteogenesis with sequential compression and then distraction was performed at the osteotomy site using the nail to successfully restore limb length and alignment.

Conclusion:

A magnetically controlled nail can be used to perform monofocal sequential compression-distraction osteosynthesis through a nonunion after an alignment correcting osteotomy.
Remediation of Heavy Oil Transportation Problems via Pipelines Using Biodegradable Additives: An Experimental and Artificial Intelligence Approach
Authors: Gudala Manojkumar , Naiya Tarun Kumar , Govindarajan Suresh Kumar
Published: August 2020

The present work focuses on the improvement of flow properties during the transportation of heavy oil via 0.0254-, 0.0381-, and 0.0508-m-diameter pipelines. The effect of temperature, water cut, natural extract Madhuca Longifolia (ML), and potato starch (PS) on pressure drop, shear viscosity, and flow behavior index (n) was experimentally investigated. Minimum pressure drop occurred in the 0.0508-m-inner-diameter (ID) pipeline because of the combined consequence of temperature and 2,000 ppm ML during the transportation of 85% heavy oil + 15% water. A new correlation was developed to predict the friction factor for the heavy oil/emulsions during its transportation in a 0.0254-m-ID pipeline using the linear regression method for friction factor. Flow behavior index inclined toward Newtonian from shear-thinning behavior (i.e., n = 0.2181 to 0.9834) after the addition of 2,000 ppm ML at 50°C. From the comparative studies of the bioadditives ML and PS, it was found that ML was more effective in decreasing pressure drop. A new hybrid artificial intelligence (AI) technique was developed and used to optimize flow-influencing parameters to minimize the pressure drop and shear viscosity and improve flow behavior index. Minimum pressure drop (58,659.72 Pa), shear viscosity (1.56 Pa·s), and maximum flow behavior index (0.71) were achieved during the heavy oil flow in the 0.0508-m-ID pipeline after addition of 15% water, 1,320 ppm ML for 12.33-m3/h flow rate at 27°C. ML and PS are substantially efficient enough to decrease the pressure drop and shear viscosity and increase the flow behavior index in pipelines. However, from the studies, it was concluded that ML shows better performance compared with PS. Because both ML and PS are biodegradable and nontoxic, the petroleum industry may use both as a cost-effective alternative to decrease pour point and improve flowability for heavy crude oil.
Effects of Salinity and pH on the Stability of Clay-Stabilized Oil-in-Water Pickering Emulsions
Authors: Yu Long , Li Shidong , Stubbs Ludger Paul , Lau Hon Chung
Published: August 2020

Most emulsions are thermodynamically unstable and will lose their effectiveness once the emulsion droplets experience creaming or coalescence, which constrains potential further and wide application. Therefore, finding a stable emulsion system is important.

In this work, a systematic study was carried out on the use of an oil-in-water (O/W) Pickering emulsion stabilized by sodium (Na)-montmorillonite particles. The particle-size distribution and zeta potential of Na-montmorillonite particle solutions at 0 to 20 wt% sodium chloride (NaCl) and pH of 3.3 to 11 were characterized first. The emulsifying ability of the clay particles and stability of O/W emulsions against creaming and coalescence at a set of salinities and pH were measured to provide suitable salinity and pH range for the emulsions.

Results show that the Na-montmorillonite particles can be used as an effective stabilizer for O/W emulsion. Because of the decreased zeta potential, the clay particles are more likely to adsorb on the oil/water interface to form emulsions with smaller droplet size in an acidic and high-salinity environment. At a fixed pH, the emulsion tends to be unstable against creaming at less than a certain critical salinity, which is usually 0.25 wt% NaCl. At the critical salinity, the clay particles form a three-dimensional (3D) clay network to effectively stabilize the emulsion from creaming. This clay network interconnects the emulsion droplets, thus hindering the upward movement of the droplets because of buoyancy. At salinities higher than the critical salinity, the emulsion stability against creaming gradually decreases with salinity because of the compaction of the 3D clay network. At a fixed salinity, the creaming stability also has a similar critical pH, which increases with salinity. In addition, the O/W emulsion droplets are more stable against coalescence under more acidic and saline conditions. This results from denser clay particle adsorption on the droplet surface and a greater restriction on droplet motion and collision by the clay structure. Three 2D diagrams showing clear trend of clay emulsifying ability, long-term emulsion stability against creaming and coalescence at a range of salinity from 0 to 20 wt% NaCl, and at a range of pH from 3.3 to 11 were achieved to provide appropriate emulsions.
Hygienic Sanitary Items Usage and Ovulatory Cycle Knowledge in India
Authors: Babbar Karan , Saluja Deepika
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Expression of IL-23 in Gilt Endometrium and Oviduct After Insemination With Seminal Plasma, Spermatozoa or Semen Extender
Authors: Svensson Anna , Jiwakanon Jatesada , Fossum Caroline , Dalin Anne-Marie
Published: August 2020

Background: Signaling between seminal fluid and the female reproductive tract is required for a successful pregnancy to occur. Insemination with spermatozoa, seminal plasma and extender, is known to cause a rapid inflammatory response in the pig endometrium, which is characterized by an influx of neutrophils into the uterus. The temporary inflammatory response to semen involves induction of cytokines. In this study, potential functions for Interleukin-23 (IL-23) in the inflammatory response to different insemination treatments were examined by studying mRNA expression and immunostaining in samples of gilt oviduct (isthmus and infundibulum) and endometrium collected 35-40 h after insemination. Insemination was performed with either seminal plasma (SP, n = 4), spermatozoa in the extender Beltsville thawing solution (BTS) (SPZ, n = 4), or BTS alone (n = 4). In control gilts (n = 4) an insemination catheter was inserted without anything being inseminated. Any relation between expression of IL-23 and the presence of polymorphonuclear neutrophilic granulocytes (PMNs) in the endometrium was examined. Results: Results showed that IL-23 mRNA was expressed in the oviduct and in the endometrium. There was a significantly lower IL-23 mRNA expression in samples from gilts in the SPZ, SP and BTS treatment groups, compared with the controls. The control group also displayed significantly more neutrophils in samples collected 35-40 h after insemination compared with samples from the SP group. IL-23 immunolabelling was detected in a small number of separate cells as well as in the sub-epithelial connective tissue of the endometrium, the endosalpinx of the isthmus and infundibulum.Conclusions: All fluids used for insemination decreased the expression of IL-23 mRNA in the endometrium compared to catheter-insertion alone, indicating a possible role for IL-23 in the inflammatory response after insemination in gilts.
Detection and Characterisation of Carbapenem Resistant Gram-negative Bacilli Isolates Recovered From Hospitalised Patients at Soba University Hospital, Sudan
Authors: Elbadawi Hana S. , Elhag Kamal M. , Mahgoub Elsheikh , Altayb Hisham N , Ntoumi Francine , Elton Linzy , McHugh Timothy D , Osman Mohamed , Tembo John , Vairo Francesco , Ippolito Giuseppe , Osman Abdinasir , Zumla Alimuddin , Hamid Muzamil Mahdi Abdel
Published: August 2020

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a threat to global health security. Whilst over the past decade, there has been an increase in reports of nosocomial infections globally caused by carbapenem resistant Gram-negative bacilli (GNB). This study aimed to detect and characterize carbapenem resistance Gram negative bacteria isolated from hospitalized patients in Soba University Hospital (SUH) in Khartoum State, Sudan Results: A total of 206 GNB isolates from different clinical specimens were obtained from hospitalised patients between October 2016 to February 2017. Of 206 isolates, 171 (83%) were confirmed resistant phenotypically and 121 (58.7%) isolates were positive for the presence of one or more carbapenemase genes. New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) types were the most predominant genes, blaNDM 107(52%). Others included blaIMP 7 (3.4%), blaOXA-48 5(2.4%), blaVIM 2 (0.9%) and blaKPC 0 (0%). Co-resistance genes with NDM producing GNB were detected in 87 (81.3%) of all blaNDM positive isolates. A significant association between phenotypic and genotypic resistance was observed (P < 0.001). NDM1 was the most frequent subtype observed in 75 (70 %) isolates which clusters to the Indian lineage.Conclusions: The frequency of carbapenemase producing bacilli was found to be improperly high in SUH. NDM was found to be the most prevalent carbapenemase gene among clinical isolates. Close surveillance across all hospitals in Sudan is required. The relative distribution of carbapenemase genes among GNB in nosocomial infections in Africa needs to be defined.
Comparison of Acute Appendicitis Before and Within COVID 19 Era: A Retrospective Study from Rural Nepal
Authors: Baral Suman , Chhetri Rajkumar , Thapa Neeraj
Published: August 2020

IntroductionThe world has been engulfed with the pandemicity of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which have created significant impact in the emergency surgical health delivery including acute appendicitis. The main aim of this study was to compare the demographic and clinical parameters between two cohorts before the onset of lockdown and within pandemic.MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed between two groups A and B, who presented with acute appendicitis three months prior to and after initiation of lockdown on March 24 2020 respectively in one of the tertiary centers of Nepal. These two cohorts were compared in demographics, clinicopathological characteristics and surgical aspects of acute appendicitis. ResultsThere were 42 patients in group A and 50 patients in group B. Mean age of the patient was 31.32±17.18 years with male preponderance in group B (N= 29). Mean duration of pain increased significantly in group B [57.8±25.9(B) vs 42.3±25.0(A) hours, P= 0.004] along with mean duration of surgery. [51.06±9.4(B) vs 45.27±11.8(A) minutes, P= 0.015] There was significant decrease in post-operative hospital stay among group B patients. [3.04±1.1(B) vs 3.86±0.67(A) days, P= 0.0001] Complicated cases increased in group B including appendicular perforation in 10 cases. Similarly, mean duration of presentation to hospital significantly increased in group B patients with perforation. [69.6±21.01 vs 51.57±17.63 hours, P= 0.008] ConclusionDuring the adversity of the current pandemic, increased number of cases of acute appendicitis can be dealt with surgery as the chances of late presentation and complexity of the lesion exists.
Observation of Multinuclear Extra-framework Aluminum Species in Dealuminated Zeolite Catalysts
Authors: Zheng Anmin , Yi Xianfeng , Xiao Yao , Liu Zhiqiang , Li Guangchao , Chen Wei , Liu Shangbiu
Published: August 2020

Although the Lewis acidic extra-framework aluminum (EFAL) species usually play decisive roles in improving the thermal stabilities, acidity and catalytic performances of industrialized zeolitic catalysts, the structure of these important EFAL clusters has long been a subject of intense debate, and their characterization remains a challenging task. Particularly, the more stable and even more catalytic active multinuclear EFAL clusters have never been experimentally observed owing to the nearly indistinguishable physicochemical properties of mononuclear and multinuclear EFAL species detected by conventional techniques. Herein, by invoking advanced two-dimensional (2D) solid-state 31P NMR spectroscopy in conjunction with a novel probe molecule, namely 1,2-bis(dimethylphosphine) ethane (DMPE), we demonstrated for the first time that the presence of multinuclear EFAL species in dealuminated zeolites. Furthermore, based on the comprehensive spatial interactions information from 2D 31P-31P homonuclear correlation NMR experiments, the evolution and transformation mechanisms of various acidic sites during the dealumination treatment of zeolites have also been clarified.
Evaluation of Two Novel Therapeutics Against Human and Canine Osteosarcoma
Authors: Wilson-Robles Heather , Miller Tasha , Sima Chao , Hua Jianping , Cypert Milana , Bittner Michael
Published: August 2020

Background: Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary bone tumor in both humans and canines. This tumor has an aggressive course leading to the development of metastatic lesions in most patients diagnosed with this disease. Two new novel agents, MLN9708 and SH4-54, work as a proteasome inhibitor and a STAT3 inhibitor, respectively. Targets of these drugs have been shown to be overexpressed in OS in both species. Methods: Two human and two canine OS cell lines were exposed in vitro to both drugs alone and in combination. The number of cells undergoing apoptosis, as well as the number of cells capable of invasion through a matrigel basement membrane was evaluated after exposure to the drugs. Additionally, PCR and Western blots of downstream targets were evaluated. Finally, both drugs were tested against each cell line in an in vivo murine xenograft model. Results: All four cell lines were sensitive to MLN9708, one of the human cell lines and both canine cell lines were resistant to SH4-54. MLN9708 was also better at inhibiting invasion in three of the four cell lines. In the murine xenografts MLN9708 inhibited growth and metastasis in 143B (human OS) and the combination inhibited growth in the canine OS cell line (MCKOS). Conclusions: Though SH4-54 demonstrated robust cell killing in 143B in vitro, MLN9708 demonstrated broader activity across species for the treatment of OS. Further investigation into this drug is warranted as a treatment for OS. Combination of this drug with a STAT3 inhibitor may be worthwhile in canine OS.
Effects of CT images with different reconstruction energy on radiotherapy planning for patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Xiufang Tian , Kun Liu , Jing Wang , Jiandong Zhang , Hou Yong
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

With the development of the CT technology, multi-energy technology is applied to CT imaging, which improves the time resolution, spatial resolution and density resolution of CT system. It enables the CT imaging system to achieve clearer image display under safe and low-dose conditions, so that the disease can be displayed more quickly, and the disease can be identified more early and more clearly.
METHODS

38 non-small cell lung cancer patients were selected for energy spectral scanning. All energy spectral images obtained were transferred to the DiscoverTM CT post-processing workstation to generate 40 keV, 60 keV, 80 keV, 100 keV, 120 keV, and 140 keV single-energy images. Then the single-energy images were imported to Eclipse, and the oncologist contours the target area and organs at risk (OARs) on the single-energy images described above, and then the physicist designed radiotherapy plans to perform statistical analysis on the tissue CT value and target volume of each single-energy image, and to compare dosimetry of different plans about the organs at risk and the target area.
RESULTS

The CT values of GTV, heart, lung, and spinal cord of different energy CT images are statistically different (P < 0.05). Among them, the CT value of each tissue obtained in the 40 keV group is the largest, and the CT value decreases with the increase of energy. There were no statistically significant differences in the homogeneity index(HI), the conformity index(CI), the maximum dose, the minimum dose and the average dose of the gross tumor volume (GTV) delineated on CT images of different energy (P > 0.05), as well as the organs at risk.
CONCLUSIONS

When CT images of different energies obtained from energy spectral CT scans are used in the design of radiotherapy planning, there are no significant differences in target area outlines and doses caused by energy factors, but the differences in tissue CT values have statistical significant.
Relationship between BMI with percentage body fat and obesity in Singaporean adults – The Yishun Study.
Authors: Chen Kexun Kenneth , Wee Shiou-Liang , Pang Benedict , Lau Lay Khoon , Jabbar Khalid Abdul , Seah Wei Ting , Ng Tze Pin
Published: August 2020

Background: Primary aim of this study is to the determine relationship between BMI and BF% in Singaporean adults, derive a prediction model to estimate BF%, and to report population BF%. Secondary aim is to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity based on BF% threshold and the new risk categories for obesity in Singaporean population.Methods: This is a population-based study of 542 community-dwelling Singaporeans (21-90 years old, 43.1% men). Anthropometry, body composition, and questionnaire-based lifestyle factors were assessed. Relationship between BMI and BF% were analysed using multiple regression model. Prevalence of overweight and obesity were estimated using WHO and Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH) Clinical Practice Guidelines BMI classification, BF% of 25% and 35% for men and women . Results: We derived a prediction model to estimate BF% based on BMI, age, sex and ethnicity. The current cohort of Singaporeans have higher BF% at matching BMI, age and sex than Caucasians, and a Singaporean cohort from 20 years ago. The overall population-adjusted prevalence of obesity according to WHO International classification (BMI ³30kg/m2) was 12.9% (14.9% men; 11.0% women); and 26.6% (30.7% men; 22.8% women) according to MOH classification (BMI ³27.5kg/m2). However, using BF% cut-off (>25% for men and >35% for women), prevalence of obesity increased to 82.0% (80.2% men; 83.8% women).Conclusion: There appears to be a large discrepancy between BF% and BMI measured obesity in Singaporean adults. The results confirmed that Singaporean adults have higher BF% at lower BMI compared to Caucasians; and that BF% in our population have increased over two decades.
Proteomics Analysis and Identification of Critical Proteins and Network Interactions That Regulate the Specific Deposition of IMF of Jingyuan Chicken
Authors: Huang Zengwen , Zhang Juan , Gu Yaling , Xin Guosheng , Cai Zhengyun , Yin Xianfeng , Feng Xiaofang , Mu Tong , Yang Chaoyun
Published: August 2020

Background:Improving the production efficiency and quality of broiler chickens has become a hot topic in molecular breeding of the broiler industry. There are several factors, among which intramuscular fat (IMF) content is one of the essential factors determining chicken quality. The chicken carcass weight of 40-50% consisted of the leg muscles and breast muscles, and the research on chicken meat quality was performed on that part. Jingyuan chicken is one of the high-quality local chicken species in China. However, the molecular mechanism of IMF specific deposition in different parts of Jingyuan chicken is still unclear. In order to screen and identify the proteins that regulate IMF specific deposition in different parts of Jingyuan chicken and analyze network interaction, the present study selected 180-day-old Jingyuan chicken as the research material, using proteomic techniques and PRM experimental methods to carry out basic research on leg muscle and breast muscle. Results:Three key signaling pathways and ten essential functional proteins regulating IMF specific deposition of Jingyuan chicken were identified, while the molecular mechanism of the deposition of proteins was explained, and analyzed the network interaction between these key functional proteins. Conclusions:The results of this study are of great scientific value and theoretical significance not only for improving chicken quality but also for molecular breeding of high-quality local chickens.
Geographical variation and factor associated with modern contraceptive utilization among Young married women aged between 15-24 years: Spatial and multilevel analysis of EDHS 2016.
Authors: Yesuf Kedir Abdu , Muluneh Aysheshum , Asrese Eueail Teferi
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Despite increase in trend of contraceptive utilization in worldwide it was still low in developing country. In Ethiopia modern contraceptive utilization among young married women was low which shows gaps between women reproductive desire to avoid pregnancy and contraceptive behavior. This study shows varation in modern contraceptive utilization and factor associated with it among young merried age group between 15-24 years in Ethiopia. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the geographical varation of modern contraceptive utilization and associated factor among young married women aged between 15- 24 year in Ethiopia. Methods: Cross-sectional study design was applied using Ethiopia demographic and health survey 2016 data. The sample size was 2298 young married women aged between 15-24 years. Spatial analysis was done using spatial autocorrelation Moran’s I, Gettis-OrdGi* and spatial scan statics to identify significant clusters of modern contraceptive utilization. The data were analyzed using a two level-mixed-effects logistic regression model to determine the individual and community level factors associated with modern contraceptive utilization.Result: In Ethiopia, prevalence of modern contraceptive utilization among young married women age group 15-24 years was 36.7 %. Spatial scan statistics identified primary clusters of modern contraceptive utilization were all zone of Amhara, Addis Ababa and Shewa. In other hand, Gettis-OrdGi* analysis indicated zone 1 of Afar region, Borena zone of Oromia region and all zone of Somalia regions were low prevalence spot region. In this study religion, wealth index, religious, health facility visits within 12 months, husband desire more children, perception of distance from health facility, region, Community access to health services and community educational level were statically significant variables for modern contraceptive utilization.Conclusions: There is low prevalence of modern contraceptive utilization and it was varied across zone of Ethiopia. High and low prevalence spot area, most likely cluster, community and individual level factor associated with modern contraceptive utilization is identified which is important to prioritize family planning strategy. Therefore, exerting much effort on this area is supreme important as it has significant public health contributions.
Association of β1 and β2-adrenoceptor Polymorphisms With the Demand of Inotropic Catecholamine Support Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Iranian Population
Authors: Eslami Gohar , Ghafari Rahman , Habibi Valiollah , Hedayatizadeh-Omran Akbar , Moosazadeh Mahmood , Amjadi Omolbanin , Alikhani Reza , Emami Shahaboddin
Published: August 2020

Background: Hemodynamic instability is a common complication in the first hours following cardiac surgery and inotropic catecholamine support is an acceptable treatment strategy for its management. β1 and β2-adrenoceptors (β1 and β2 AR) are mediated the positive inotropic and chronotropic responses of the heart to catecholamines. Previous evidence has suggested an association between β1 and β2AR polymorphisms and cardiac response and change in receptor signaling. The aim of this study was evaluating the relationship between β1 and β2AR polymorphisms with demand of catecholamine inotropic support among coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients.Methods: One hundred ninety-eight consecutive patients who underwent CABG with cardiopulmonary bypass were included in this study. We assessed hemodynamic parameters, dose and duration of inotropic support according to β1 and β2AR genotypes in post-operative period. DNA genotyping were assessed through polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and PCR genotyping results were confirmed by direct DNA sequencing. Results: The our results indicated that patients carrying one or two alleles of the Arg389-β1AR variant required significantly shorter inotropic support time compared with patients homozygous for the Gly389-β1AR (p=0.003). Finally, neither β1AR polymorphisms nor Arg16Gly-β2AR polymorphism are associated with catecholamines-induced hemodynamic effects.Conclusion: These findings suggest that genetic variability in the β1 and β2AR polymorphisms may not be a major determinant of cardiac responses to catecholamine treatment in Iranian population. However, larger scale studies with different ethnicities are needed for confirmation.
Production of Proline and Protease With Different Organic Wastes in Bacteria
Authors: Kahraman Hüseyin , Karaderi Cennet Canan
Published: August 2020

Background: In this study, we investigated the proline and protease production of different bacteria in several organic waste materials. Our aim was to produce proline and protease economically in waste that is abundantly available while reducing its environmental impact. Methods: 5 ml of different organic waste materials were placed in 10 ml grow tubes, inoculated and incubated for 24 h. Phosphate-buffered saline and 10% solutions of different organic wastes were added. These cultures were subsequently incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Cells were harvested at 24 h for L-proline assay. 1 ml of culture was transferred by pipette into an Eppendorf tube and centrifuged at at room temperature. Cellular debris was removed by centrifuge and the supernatant was used for proline activity assays. Results: Protease activity was determined using a modified method with casein as the substrate. We found that proline and protease can easily be produced economically using TCW, WCW and OWW organic waste. Conclusion: We believe that this study will result in similar research leading to the economical use of these waste materials thus reducing their impact on the environment.
Promoting health behaviors for preventing and controlling noncommunicable disease among North Korean defectors: A systematic review
Authors: Shin Hyun-Young , Shin Jung Eun , Baek Seung Yon , Chu Sang Hui
Published: August 2020

Background: Recently, noncommunicable disease (NCDs) has emerged as a new major health issue in North Korea. However, studies on the prevalence of its risk factors and their related health behavior among North Koreans are lacking. The studies on North Korean defectors could help us in understating their awareness and health‑promoting behavior as well as their vulnerabilities for metabolic diseases or NCDs under the current circumstances where South and North Korea have limited exchanges in the health and medical sectors. In this study, we reviewed the prevalence of risk factors or the health‑promoting behavior related to NCD among North Korean defectors. Methods: Search on the PubMed (MEDLINE), CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Korean Nursing Database, Korean Medical Database, KIHASA Repository, and RISS were performed. We included all study types reporting any type of risk factors or prevalence or health behaviors with the following inclusion criteria: (1) published in English or Korean; (2) NCD‑related topic; and (3) age ≥18 years. The data were extracted independently by the 2 authorsResults: Finally, 22 studies were included in the analysis: 18 quantitative study and 4 qualitative studies, and among the quantitative studies, 5 studies had comparisons with South Koreans. The number of participants ranged from 8–932 participants, and 54.6%–100% of them were women. The survey using the questionnaires was the most popular research method. Data from objective measurements, such as body weight, waist circumference, blood test, and urine analysis were used in a few studies. North Korean defectors were found to have higher smoking rates, drinking rates, and increased abdominal obesity caused by the lack of awareness and management of risk factors since they moved to South Korea.Conclusions: In this study, we showed that there were not enough studies related to NCDs and health behaviors among North Korean defectors. Nevertheless, North Korean defectors were found to be more vulnerable to NCDs, including metabolic syndrome. It is necessary to improve the awareness of NCD and its risk factors among North Korean defectors. Efforts for promoting North Korean defectors’ health behaviors by the government and related professional organizations are needed.
Heterogeneous Academic Network Embedding Based Multivariate Random-Walk Model for Predicting Scientific Impact
Authors: Qiao Yongwei , Sun Leilei , Han Jianing , Xiao Chunjing
Published: August 2020

The prediction of current scientific impact of papers and authors has been extensively studied to help researchers find valuable papers and recent research directions, also help policymakers make recruitment decisions or funding allocation. However, how to accurately evaluate the future impact of them, especially for new papers and young researchers, is the focus of scientific impact prediction research, and is less explored. Existing graph-based methods heavily depend on the global structure information of heterogeneous academic network and ignore the local structure information and text information, which may provide important clues to identify influential papers and authors with novel perspective. In this paper, we propose a hybrid model called ESMR to predict the future influence of papers and authors by mainly exploiting these information mentioned above. Specifically, we first put forward a novel network embedding-based model, which can capture not only the local structure information, but also the text information of papers into a unified embedding representation. Then, the future impact of papers and authors is mutually ranked by integrating the learned embedding representations into a multivariate random-walk model. Empirical results on two real datasets demonstrate that the proposed method significantly outperforms the existing state-of-the-art ranking methods.
Dysregulation of macrophage PEPD in obesity determines adipose tissue fibro-inflammation and insulin resistance
Authors: Pellegrinelli Vanessa , Rodriguez-Cuenca Segio , Rouault Christine , Schilbert Hanna , Virtue Sam , Moreno-Navarrete Jose Maria , Bidault Guillaume , Borrego Maria del Carmen Vázquez , Dias Ana Rita , Pucker Boas , Dale Martin , Campbell Mark , Carobbio Stefania , Aron-Wisnewsky Judith , Mora Silvia , Masiero Mauro , Emmanouilidou Anastasia , Mukhopadhyay Subhankar , Dougan Gordon , Hoed Marcel den , Loos Ruth , Fernández-Real José Manuel , Chiarugi Davide , Clément Karine , Vidal-Puig Antonio
Published: August 2020

Fibrosis is a hallmark of adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction and obesity-associated insulin resistance that results from an impaired collagen turnover. Peptidase D (PEPD) plays a vital role in collagen turnover by degrading proline-containing dipeptides. Nevertheless, its specific function and importance in AT is unknown. GWAS identified the rs731839 variant in the locus near PEPD that uncouples obesity from insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia, thus indicating that defective PEPD might impair AT remodelling and exacerbate metabolic complications. Here we show that in human and murine obesity, PEPD expression and activity decrease in AT, coupled to the release of PEPD systemically. Both events, in turn, are associated with the accumulation of fibrosis in AT and insulin resistance. Using pharmacologic and genetic animal models of PEPD down-regulation, we show that whereas dysfunctional PEPD activity provokes AT fibrosis, it is the PEPD secreted by AT the main contributor to inflammation, insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction. Also, PEPD originated in inflammatory macrophages (Mɸ), plays an essential role promoting fibro-inflammatory responses via activation of EGFR in Mɸ and preadipocytes. Using genetic ablation of pepd in Mɸ that prevents obesity-induced PEPD release, also averts AT fibro-inflammation and obesity-associated metabolic dysfunctions. Taking advantage of factor analysis, we have identified the coupling of prolidase decreased activity and increased systemic levels of PEPD as the essential pathogenic triggers of AT fibrosis and insulin resistance. Thus, PEPD produced by Mɸ qualifies as a biomarker of AT fibro-inflammation and a therapeutic target for AT fibrosis and obesity-associated insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Disrupted Mitochondrial and Metabolic Plasticity Underlie Comorbidity Between Age-related and Degenerative Disorders as Parkinson Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Juárez-Flores Diana Luz , Ezquerra Mario , Gonzàlez-Casacuberta Íngrid , Ormazabal Aida , Morén Constanza , Tolosa Eduardo , Fucho Raquel , Guitart-Mampel Mariona , Casado Mercedes , Valldeoriola Francesc , Torre-Lara Joan de la , Muñoz Esteban , Tobías Ester , Compta Yaroslau , García-García Francesc Josep , Garcia-Ruiz Carmen , Fernandez-Checa Jose Carlos , Marti Maria José , Grau Josep Maria , Cardellach Francesc , Artuch Rafael , Fernández-Santiago Rubén , Garrabou Glòria
Published: August 2020

Background. Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (iPD) and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are chronic, degenerative, multisystemic and age-related diseases, with eventual epidemiological co-morbidity and potential overlap in molecular basis. This study aims to explore if metabolic and mitochondrial alterations underlie the suggested epidemiologic and clinical co-morbidity at molecular level. Methods. To evaluate the adaptation of iPD to a simulated pre-diabetogenic state, we exposed primary cultured fibroblasts from iPD patients and controls to standard (5mM) and high (25mM) glucose concentrations to further characterize metabolic and mitochondrial resilience.Results. iPD fibroblasts showed increased levels of organic and amino acid levels related to mitochondrial metabolism with respect to controls, and these differences were enhanced in high glucose conditions (citric, suberic and sebacic acids levels increased, as well as alanine, glutamate, aspartate, arginine and ornithine amino acids; p-values between 0.001 and p=0.05). The accumulation of metabolites in iPD fibroblasts was associated (and probably due) to the concomitant mitochondrial dysfunction observed at enzymatic, oxidative, respiratory and morphologic level. Metabolic and mitochondrial plasticity of controls was not observed in iPD fibroblasts, that were unable to adapt to different glucose conditions. Impaired metabolism and mitochondrial activity in iPD may limit energy supply for cell survival. Moreover, deficient plasticity to adapt to disrupted glucose balance characteristic of T2DM may underlay the comorbidity between both diseases. Conclusions:Fibroblasts form iPD patients showed mitochondrial impairment resulting in the accumulation of organic and amino acids related to mitochondrial metabolism, especially when exposed to high glucose condition. Mitochondrial and metabolic defects down warding cell plasticity to adapt to changing glucose bioavailability may explain the comorbidity between iPD and T2DM.
Gaze Deviation and Paresis Score (GPS) Sufficiently Predicts Emergent Large Vessel Occluding Strokes
Authors: Johannes Benedikt , Habib Pardes , Schürmann Kolja , Nikoubashman Omid , Wiesmann Martin , Schulz Jörg B. , Reich Arno
Published: August 2020

Background: The prognosis of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) essentially depends on both prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Endovascular stroke therapy (EST) proved to be highly efficient in the treatment of emergent large vessel occluding (ELVO) strokes in the anterior circulation. To achieve a timely diagnosis, a robust combination of few and simple signs to identify ELVOs in AIS patients applicable by paramedics in the prehospital triage is worthwhile. Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 904 AIS patients (324 ELVO, 580 non-ELVO) admitted between 2010 and 2015 in a tertiary stroke center. We re-evaluated two symptoms based on NIHSS items, gaze deviation and hemiparesis of the limbs (“Gaze deviation and Paresis Score, GPS”) for the pre-hospital prediction of ELVO. Results: A positive GPS AIS in patients predicted ELVO with a sensitivity of 0.89, specificity = 0.97, positive predictive value (PPV) = 0.95, negative predictive value (NPV) = 0.94 and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) = 34.25 (CI: 20.75 - 56.53). The positive Likelihood-ratio (LR + ) was 29.67, the negative Likelihood ratio (LR - ) 0.11. NIHSS of patients with positive GPS (gaze palsy NIHSS ≥ 0, Motor arm NIHSS ≥2 and Motor leg NIHSS ≥2) was markedly higher compared to negative GPS patients (p<0.001). Conclusions: The GPS proved to be similarly accurate in detecting ELVO in the anterior circulation of AIS patients and even more specific than other published clinical scores. Its simplicity and clarity might enable non-neurological medical staff to identify ELVO AIS patients with high certainty in a preclinical setting.
Bioethanol Production From Pennisetum sp. Using Fed-Batch Simultaneous Saccharification and Co-Fermentation at High Solid Loadings and Its Life Cycle Analysis
Authors: Mohapatra Sonai , Behera Bikash Chandra , Acharya Achuyta Nanda , thatoi Hrudayanath
Published: August 2020

Considerable progress has been achieved for production of bioethanol from lignocellulosic biomass. However, increasing the substrate concentration has shown to decrease the ethanol productivity. In the present study, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia membreneferans were used for ethanol production from glucose and xylose sugars respectively in optimized conditions. Further, co-culture fermentations were conducted in three different strategies for 13 g of sugar (10 g of glucose and 3 g of xylose) and the best strategy was further used for ethanol production from ultrasonication assisted NaOH (UA-NaOH) pretreated and enzymatically saccharified in batch and fed-batch fermentation conditions. Further, fed-batch fermentation was used for separate hydrolysis and co-fermentation (SHCF) and simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation (SSCF) in shake flask conditions. The highest ethanol production of 12.2 and 7.9 (g/L) was observed for fed-batch SSCF denannath grass (DG) and Hybrid napier grass (HNG) (Palkonal MBW as the enzyme) biomass (80 g) respectively in shake flask conditions. However, increasing the biomass concentration to 270 g produced an ethanol concentration of 77.6 and 51.3 (g/L) for DG and HNG respectively in fed-batch SSCF conditions in bioreactor. Nuclear magnetic resonance studies of the residual biomass of both DG and HNG revealed presence of lower carbohydrate content, demonstrating the efficiency of the fermentation strategy. Further Life cycle Analysis (LCA) was also conducted to analyzed the effect of the ethanol on different environmental conditionsThe substrate feeding strategy and the saccharifying enzymes play a major role for efficient bioethanol production with higher substrate loadings. Presence of lower carbohydrates and some lignin moieties demonstrating the efficiency of the SSCF strategy for maximum conversion of carbohydrates. Thus fed batch SSCF process can be considered as a promising technique for biorefinery based bioethanol production from Pennisetum sp. in the future.
The Effects of Priming Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation on Movement-Related and Mirror Visual Feedback-Induced Sensorimotor Desynchronization
Authors: ZHANG Jack Jiaqi , Fong Kenneth NK
Published: August 2020

Background: The potential benefits of priming intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) with continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) have not been examined in regard to sensorimotor oscillatory activities recorded in electroencephalography (EEG). Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the modulatory effect of priming iTBS (cTBS followed by iTBS) delivered to the motor cortex on movement-related and mirror visual feedback (MVF)-induced sensorimotor event-related desynchronization (ERD), compared with iTBS alone, on healthy adults.Methods: Twenty participants were randomly allocated into Group 1: priming iTBS - cTBS followed by iTBS, and Group 2: non-priming iTBS - sham cTBS followed by iTBS. The stimulation was delivered to the right motor cortex daily for 4 consecutive days. EEG was measured before and after 4 sessions of stimulation. Movement-related ERD was evaluated during left-index finger tapping and MVF-induced sensorimotor ERD was evaluated by comparing the difference between right-index finger tapping with and without MVF.Results: After stimulation, both protocols increased movement-related ERD and MVF-induced sensorimotor ERD in high mu and low beta bands, indicated by significant time effects. A significant interaction effect favoring Group 1 in enhancing movement-related ERD was observed in the high mu band (F (1, 18) = 4.47, p = 0.049), compared with Group 2.Conclusion: Our experiment suggests that priming iTBS with cTBS delivered to the motor cortex yields similar effects with iTBS alone on enhancing sensorimotor activation induced by movement and MVF-based observation on healthy adults. Further studies are warranted.
Association of Vitamin D Deficiency And Respiratory Syncytial Virus With Severe Lower Respiratory Tract Infection In Newborn Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Tüfekci Sinan , Aygün Erhan
Published: August 2020

Background: Newborn infants are exposed to life-threatening conditions such as severe lower respiratory tract infections mostly caused by a respiratory syncytial virus. Previous studies suggest vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of lower respiratory tract infections but this hypothesis is controversial. This study aimed to assess the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and the occurrence of lower respiratory tract infections among Turkish infants.Methods: We performed a case-control study including newborns admitted in the neonatal intensive care unit. Respiratory syncytial virus related respiratory infections were confirmed by the Respi-strip test. Clinical and biological data were collected from medical records and analyzed with Epi Info7.Results: We included 18 newborns (9 cases with the diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus-related lower respiratory tract infections and 9 controls admitted with another diagnosis). Their mean age was 23.72 days and sex-ratio was 2. The main clinical symptoms of lower respiratory tract infections were cough, tachypnea, and fever and respiratory syncytial virus test was positive in all cases. Vitamin D level was significantly lower in cases compared to the control group (5.40 vs 17.67 ng/ml respectively). All newborns with lower respiratory tract infections presented vitamin D deficiency and 11.1 % of controls had normal vitamin D status. All babies and mothers with vitamin D deficiency were supplemented. Conclusion: Our results suggest that severe lower respiratory tract infections is associated with lower vitamin D levels among newborns admitted in neonatal intensive care unit. Vitamin D supplementation could help correct this deficiency and prevent postnatal severe lower respiratory tract infections.
Public policies reflected on hospitalizations for ambulatory care sensitive conditions: an ecological study in Sergipe-Brazil, 2008-2017
Authors: Justo Cátia Maria , Bastos Kleyton de Andrade , Nedel Fúlvio Borges
Published: August 2020

Background: Hospitalization for Ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions (HACSC) are an indicator of failure at this level of the health system. Since 2006, a series of actions have been taken in Brazil to promote Primary Health Care (PHC), a situation that has changed radically since 2014. To analyze the trend of the HACSC in Sergipe, in the period from 2008 to 2017. Methods: Ecological time-trend analysis. The data were extracted from the hospital admission authorizations on Hospital Information System in Brazilian Unified Health System. It was classified according to the Brazilian List of HACSC. The rates were standardized by the indirect method. Findings: There were 608,083 non-obstetric admissions and 125,497 HACSC (20.6%), with an overall rate of 5.8 admissions per thousand inhabitants (5.7 male and 5.8 female). The trend described a U-curve, decreasing from 2008 to 2011, with little oscillation from 2011 to 2014, rising from 2014 to 2017. The rate was considerably higher in men over the age of 70. Throughout the period, the most frequent causes were: gastroenteritis and complications (15.6%), kidney and urinary tract infection (9.4%), asthma (9.2%), heart failure (8.8%), cerebrovascular (8.1%), and diabetes mellitus (7.2%). Conclusion: The indicator improved in the initial period of the study, following the introduction of public policies that strengthened PHC, and worsened as they were withdrawn or neglected.