bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists in Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Stavropoulos Konstantinos , Papadopoulos Christodoulos , Koutsampasopoulos Konstantinos , Lales Georgios , Mitas Christos , Doumas Michael
Published: March 2019

Background:

Primary aldosteronism is the most common causes of secondary hypertension. Patients suffering from this clinical syndrome have an increased cardiovascular risk and target organ damage. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists are the optimal pharmaceutical option for the management of such patients.

Objectives:

The study aimed to assess the effects of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist in the treatment of patients with primary aldosteronism.

Method:

We conducted an in-depth review of the literature and comprehensive identification of the clinical studies investigating the efficacy of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in individuals with primary aldosteronism.

Results:

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists result in significant improvement in blood pressure and serum potassium level among patients with primary aldosteronism. Moreover, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists reverse left ventricular hypertrophy, albuminuria, and carotid intima-media thickness. However, a high risk for atrial fibrillation remains among subject with primary aldosteronism in such agents.

Conclusion:

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists are recommended as the first-line treatment in patients with bilateral primary aldosteronism. In patients with unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma, adrenalectomy should be preferred. However, existing data presents significant limitations and is rather inconclusive. Future randomized control trials are required in order to illustrate the field.
In Silico Studies against Viral Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Authors: Monteiro Alex F.M. , de Oliveira Viana Jessika , Muratov Engene , Scotti Marcus T. , Scotti Luciana
Published: March 2019

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) refer to a variety of clinical syndromes and infections caused by pathogens that can be acquired and transmitted through sexual activity. Among STDs widely reported in the literature, viral sexual diseases have been increasing in a number of cases globally. This emphasizes the need for prevention and treatment. Among the methods widely used in drug planning are Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD) studies and molecular docking which have the objective of investigating molecular interactions between two molecules to better understand the three -dimensional structural characteristics of the compounds. This review will discuss molecular docking studies applied to viral STDs, such as Ebola virus, Herpes virus and HIV, and reveal promising new drug candidates with high levels of specificity to their respective targets.
Knockdown of Kinase Family 15 Inhibits Cancer Cell Proliferation In vitro and its Clinical Relevance in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Sheng Jiayu , Xue Xiaohong , Jiang Ke
Published: March 2019

Purpose:

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy and the leading cause of death among women. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer and shows a distinctly aggressive nature with higher rates of relapse and shorter overall survival in the metastatic setting compared to other subtypes of breast cancer. This study aimed to assess the effect of KIF15 on various clinicopathological characteristics, survival analysis, and cell proliferation in triple-negative breast cancer, which has not been reported to our knowledge.

Methods:

A total of 165 patients with triple-negative breast cancer were enrolled and clinical data were obtained, Mann-Whitney U analysis was performed to assess the correlation between the expression of KIF15 and clinical pathological characteristics of TNBC patients. Survival analysis was performed by Kaplan-Meier analysis and Log-rank test. The expression levels of KIF15 in cancer tissues and adjacent tissues were evaluated via Sign test. Lentivirus was used to down-regulate the expression of KIF15 in TNBC cells. The cell proliferation, colony formation capacity and apoptosis were examined by MTT, Giemsa staining and flow cytometry assay, respectively.

Results:

Our results showed that, among the 165 TNBC patients, the expression of KIF15 was positive correlation with clinicopathological features of TNBC. In addition, KIF15 low-expression group showed higher disease-free survival than KIF15 highexpression group and univariate analysis showed that KIF15 high-expression group appeared higher mortality than KIF low-expression group (P ≤ 0.05). Meanwhile, the expression levels of KIF15 in cancer tissue notably up-regulated in comparison with adjacent tissue. In vitro, knockdown of KIF15 significantly promoted cell apoptosis and suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation of TNBC cells.

Conclusion:

By utilizing survival analysis, we found that high-expression of KIF15 in the TNBC samples were associated with poorer overall survival, while the anti-tumor effect of KIF15 knockdown was also confirmed at the cellular level in vitro. Taken together, KIF15 can be applied as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target in TNBC.
Adeno-associated Virus 9-mediated Small RNA Interference of TLR4 Alleviates Myocardial Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury by Inhibition of the NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways in Rats
Authors: Xu Ting , Zhang Kuikui , Kan Fuqiang , Li Fengqin , Yu Bo , Du Wenjuan , Nie Honggang
Published: March 2019

Background: Despite intensive investigation, effective therapeutic procedures
for myocardial I/R injury are still in demand.

Objective:

To explore the effect of adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9)-mediated small
interfering RNA targeting TLR4 in the treatment of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion
(I/R) injury and its influence on the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

Methods:

Rats were divided into 3 groups, namely, the sham, AAV9-siRNA control, and
AAV9-TLR4 siRNA groups. siRNA solution or normal saline was injected through the tail
vain. The rat myocardial I/R injury model was then established. HE staining and TUNEL
staining were applied to compare the pathological changes in cardiomyocytes in the
three groups. Immunohistochemical staining and western blotting were utilized to detect
TLR4 expression under siRNA interference. Serum inflammatory factor (IL-1β, TNF-α)
expression was determined by an ELISA commercial kit. Key proteins in the MAPK (p38,
JNK 1/2) and NF-κB (p65) signaling pathways were determined to identify the TLR4
siRNA functional mechanism.

Results:

Fluorescence microscopic images of the myocardium indicated that AAV9-
mediated siRNA was efficiently transfected into the myocardium, and the infarcted size
after I/R injury was decreased by AAV9-TLR4 siRNA when compared with negative
control rats (P<0.05). TLR4 protein expression was significantly decreased by siRNA
interference (P<0.001). Apoptosis-related factor BCL-2 expression was increased in the
TLR4 gene silencing group, whereas Bax expression was decreased. The Bax/BCL-2
ratio was also decreased, demonstrating a protective effect for cardiomyocytes.
Inflammatory factors were lower in the TLR4 gene silencing group than in the siRNA
control group (P<0.001). The MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways were activated in
myocardial I/R injury; however, the primary proteins in these two signaling pathways
were downregulated upon interference of TLR4 siRNA, with significant differences
(P<0.05).

Conclusion:

AAV9-TLR4 siRNA has a positive effect on myocardial I/R injury by
inhibiting the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways and can be used as a potential
therapeutic method for myocardial I/R injury.
Abnormal Saccadic Intrusions with Alzheimer's Disease in Darkness
Authors: Nakamagoe Kiyotaka , Yamada Shiori , Kawakami Rio , Koganezawa Tadachika , Tamaoka Akira
Published: March 2019

Background:

Classified as saccadic intrusions, Square-Wave Jerks (SWJs) have been observed
during Visual Fixation (VF) in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). However, the pathological significance
of this phenomenon remains unclear.

Objective:

The present study analyzed the characteristics of SWJs in patients with AD with their eyes
open in the dark without VF.

Methods:

Fifteen patients with AD and 15 healthy age- and sex-matched controls were investigated and
compared. Saccadic intrusions with and without VF were detected as SWJs and measured using an electronystagmogram.

Results:

No significant difference in the frequency of SWJs was observed between control and AD
groups with VF, but significantly more SWJs were observed in the AD group than in the control group
in the absence of VF (p<0.01). In the control group, the frequency of SWJs was significantly higher with
VF as compared to without VF. Conversely, the frequency in the AD group was significantly higher
without VF. Furthermore, a directly proportional relationship was observed between the frequency of
SWJs and higher-order function (R>0.55) in the AD group.

Conclusion:

SWJs without VF may have pathological significance in AD. In healthy individuals, SWJs
are generated by VF and suppressed without VF. Conversely, in AD, SWJs are generated rather than
suppressed in the absence of VF. These pathognomonic SWJs without VF also appear to be correlated
with higher-order dysfunction, reflecting AD-related cortical damage. These findings suggest that pathological
SWJs without VF observed in AD derive from cortical damage and may constitute an important
marker of a higher-order function.
Algorithmic and Stochastic Representations of Gene Regulatory Networks and Protein-Protein Interactions
Authors: Alexiou Athanasios , Chatzichronis Stylianos , Perveen Asma , Hafeez Abdul , Ashraf Ghulam Md.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Latest studies reveal the importance of Protein-Protein interactions on physiologic functions and biological structures. Several stochastic and algorithmic methods have been published until now, for the modeling of the complex nature of the biological systems.

Objective:

Biological Networks computational modeling is still a challenging task. The formulation of the complex cellular interactions is a research field of great interest. In this review paper, several computational methods for the modeling of GRN and PPI are presented analytically.

Methods:

Several well-known GRN and PPI models are presented and discussed in this review study such as: Graphs representation, Boolean Networks, Generalized Logical Networks, Bayesian Networks, Relevance Networks, Graphical Gaussian models, Weight Matrices, Reverse Engineering Approach, Evolutionary Algorithms, Forward Modeling Approach, Deterministic models, Static models, Hybrid models, Stochastic models, Petri Nets, BioAmbients calculus and Differential Equations.

Results:

GRN and PPI methods have been already applied in various clinical processes with potential positive results, establishing promising diagnostic tools.

Conclusion:

In literature many stochastic algorithms are focused in the simulation, analysis and visualization of the various biological networks and their dynamics interactions, which are referred and described in depth in this review paper.
Identifying Ligand-receptor Interactions via an Integrated Fuzzy Model
Authors: Xu Chang , Ding Yijie , Jiang Limin , Shen Cong , Zhang Gaoyan , Yu Xuyao
Published: March 2019

Background:

The ligand-receptor interaction plays an important role in signal transduction
required for cellular differentiation, proliferation, and immune response process. The analysis of
ligand-receptor interactions is helpful to provide a deeper understanding of cellular proliferation/
differentiation and other cell processes.

Methods:

The computational technique would be used to promote ligand-receptor interactions research
in future proteomics research. In this paper, we propose a novel computational method to predict
ligand-receptor interactions from amino acid sequences by a machine learning approach. We extract
features from ligand and receptor sequences by Histogram of Oriented Gradient (HOG) and Discrete
Cosine Transform (DCT). Then, these features are fed into the Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) clustering
algorithm for clustering, and also we get multiple training subsets to generate the same number of
sub-classifiers. We choose an optimal sub-classifier for predicting ligand-receptor interactions according
to the similarity from one sample to training subsets.

Observations:

In order to verify the performance, we perform five-fold cross-validation experiments
on a ligand-receptor interactions dataset and achieve 80.08% accuracy, 82.98% sensitivity and 80.02%
specificity. Then, we test our extracted feature method on two Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs)
datasets, and achieve accuracies of 93.79% and 87.46%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our proposed method can be a useful tool for identifying of ligand-receptor interactions.
Related data sets and source code are available at https://github.com/guofei-tju/ligand-receptorinteractions.
git.
Apathy: A Conceptual Review
Authors: Lázaro-Perlado Fernando
Published: March 2019

Background:

Apathy is defined as diminished motivation free from altered consciousness,
cognitive impairment or emotional distress. It is a prevalent syndrome in different disorders,
which share brain system alterations despite very different underlying pathologies. However, to
date, little research has be en devoted to the subject.

Aim:

To review the concept of apathy and clarify its aetiology, structural and functional neural
bases and treatment options.

Methods:

Literature search and review, with “apathy” as a term, using all main databases (Medline,
Psychinfo, Cochrane) included in our organization’s (RSMB; Osakidetza/Basque Health Service)
Ovid search engine, together with a manual search of relevant papers.

Results:

The literature reviewed shows that apathy is a multi-dimensional clinical construct with a
current definition and validated diagnostic criteria. It is a prevalent condition across an array of different
brain disorders, which share a common pathology, namely dysfunction of the fronto-striatal
circuitry, specially affecting the 1) anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), 2) ventral striatum (VS) and 3)
nucleus accumbens (N. Acc.). Different theories have emerged regarding the role of the ACC in the
genesis of apathy. The neuromodulator dopamine is heavily implicated in 1- ACC, 2- VS, 3- in particulat
the N. Acc., and 4- the genesis of apathy, although other neurotransmitters could also be
involved to a lesser degree. There is a patent lack of RCTs on the efficiency of current therapeutic options.

Conclusion:

Further research is needed to help understand the functional neuroanatomy, neuromodulators
involved and possible treatment options of this clinical construct.
Mechanism of Action of Potent Boron-Containing Antifungals
Authors: Arvanitis Costa , Rook Trevor , Macreadie Ian
Published: March 2019

Background:

Boron is unusual to organic chemists, yet boron interacts greatly with organic biochemicals and has considerable bioactivity, especially as an antifungal and insecticide. The bestknown bioactive boron compounds are boric acid, its salt borax, and the closely related boronic acids. A newcomer is tavaborole (trade name Kerydin), recently developed and approved in 2014 for topical treatment of onychomycosis, a fungal infection of nails and the nail bed. It is timely to review the literature and explore the way in which these compounds may work.

Methods:

The focus of this review is to examine peer-reviewed literature relating to boric acid, boronic acid and tavaborole, the most bioactive boron-containing compounds, and the evidence for their proposed mechanism of antifungal action. In parallel with the literature, we have examined the fungistatic effects of boric acid on yeast.

Results:

All three compounds are reported to inhibit protein synthesis but their mechanism of action may differ. Chemistry studies indicate an interaction of boric acid with ribose and ribose-containing moieties such as NAD. In this review, we discuss the activity of boric acid and use both tavaborole and the boronic acids to exemplify the similar underlying mechanisms used. As there is a push to develop new antimicrobials, we demonstrate that boric acid’s fungistatic effect is alleviated with ribose, NAD and tryptophan.

Conclusion:

We speculate that boric acid inhibits yeast growth by disrupting tryptophan synthesis as well as downstream NAD, a rate limiting co-enzyme, essential for cellular function.
Proteome Analysis Revealed Jak/Stat Signaling and Cytoskeleton Rearrangement Proteins in Human Lung Epithelial Cells During Interaction with Aspergillus terreus
Authors: Thakur R. , Shankar J.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Aspergillus terreus is an emerging etiological agent of invasive and
allergic aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals. The main risk groups are individuals
having cancer, acute leukemia and those who undergo bone marrow transplantation. The human
lung epithelial cells constitute the first line of defense against inhaled conidia of A. terreus. The
aim of the study was to understand how human lung epithelial cells respond to A. terreus conidia
during the interaction and to decipher proteins/pathways underlying in host defense.

Methods:

Protein samples were extracted from human lung epithelial cells (A549) infected with
and without A. terreus conidia. Proteins were identified using QTOF-LC-MS/MS followed by
analysis using Protein Lynx Global Services software (2.2.5) against Homo sapiens UniProt
database.

Results:

A total of 1253 proteins in human lung epithelial cells were identified during the
interaction with Aspergillus terreus conidia, whereas 427 proteins were identified in uninfected
lung epithelial cells. We have observed 63 proteins in both the conditions. Gene ontology and
KEEG pathway analysis of proteins from infected lung epithelial cells showed proteins from
cytoskeleton rearrangement, transport, transcription and signal transduction pathways, such as
Jak/Stat, NOD like receptor signaling, Toll–like receptor signaling, NF-kβ signaling and TNF
signaling pathways. These signaling proteins suggested the strong immune response in lung
epithelial cells against A. terreus conidia. Also, cytoskeleton rearrangement proteins depicted the
internalization of A. terreus conidia by human lung epithelial cells.

Conclusion:

Our study has contributed to understand the interaction response of human lung
epithelial cells during A. terreus infection. Also, our study may facilitate the identification of
inflammatory biomarker against A. terreus.
Analysis of Functional and Cognitive Impairment in Institutionalized Individuals with Movement Disorders
Authors: Cebrián Paula D. , Cauli Omar
Published: March 2019

Background:

Many neurological disorders lead to institutionalization and can be accompanied
in their advanced stages by functional impairment, and progressive loss of mobility, and cognitive
alterations.

Objective:

We analyzed the relationship between functional impairment and cognitive performance
and its related subdomains in individuals with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease accompanied
by motor dysfunction, and with other neurological disorders characterized by both motor and cognitive
problems.

Methods:

All participants lived in nursing homes (Valencia, Spain) and underwent cognitive evaluation
with the Mini-Mental State Examination; functional assessment of independence in activities of
daily living using the Barthel score and Katz index; and assessment of mobility with the elderly mobility
scale.

Results:

The mean age of the subjects was 82.8 ± 0.6 years, 47% of the sample included individuals
with Parkinson’s disease, and 48 % of the sample presented severe cognitive impairment. Direct significant
relationships were found between the level of cognitive impairment and functional capacity (p
< 0.01) and mobility (p < 0.05). Among the different domains, memory impairment was not associated
with altered activities of daily living or mobility. The functional impairment and the risk of severe
cognitive impairment were significantly (p<0.05) higher in female compared to male patients. Among
comorbidities, overweight/obesity and diabetes were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with poor cognitive
performance in those individuals with mild/moderate cognitive impairment.

Conclusion:

In institutionalized individuals with movement disorders there is an association between
functional and cognitive impairment. Reduction of over-weight and proper control of diabetes may
represent novel targets for improving cognitive function at such early stages.
Focus on the Correlations between Alzheimer’s Disease and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Fiore Vincenzo , De Rosa Antonia , Falasca Paolo , Marci Massimo , Guastamacchia Edoardo , Licchelli Brunella , Giagulli Vito Angelo , De Pergola Giovanni , Poggi Antonella , Triggiani Vincenzo
Published: March 2019

Background:

In the last decades, both diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease are constantly
increasing. Affected individuals, therefore, represent an enormous problem for the society, governments
and global organizations. These diseases are usually considered as independent conditions,
but increasing evidence shows that there are links between these two disorders.

Methods:

In this review, we analyzed common features present in Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes
mellitus, showing how these two diseases are strictly correlated to each other.

Results:

Some pathogenetic factors are shared by Type 2 Diabetes and Alzheimer’s Disease: chronic
inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, adiponectin deficiency, different expression
of plasma cholinesterase activity and vascular damage could represent a possible explanation for the
coexistence of these two conditions in many patients.

Conclusion:

A better understanding of this issue and an appropriate management of diabetes by means of
physical activity, low fat diet, and drugs to achieve a good glycemic control, avoiding both hyperglycemia
and hypoglycemia, can represent a way to prevent cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
A Practical Perspective on the Evaluation of Small Molecule CNS Penetration in Drug Discovery
Authors: Huang Liyue , Wells Mary C. , Zhao Zhiyang
Published: March 2019

The separation of the brain from blood by the blood-brain barrier and the bloodcerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier poses unique challenges for the discovery and development of drugs targeting the central nervous system (CNS). This review will describe the role of transporters in CNS penetration and examine the relationship between unbound brain (Cu-brain) and unbound plasma (Cu-plasma) or CSF (CCSF) concentration. Published data demonstrate that the relationship between Cu-brain and Cu-plasma or CCSF can be affected by transporter status and passive permeability of a drug and CCSF may not be a reliable surrogate for CNS penetration. Indeed, CCSF usually over-estimates Cu-brain for efflux substrates and it provides no additional value over Cu-plasma as the surrogate of Cu-brain for highly permeable non-efflux substrates. A strategy described here for the evaluation of CNS penetration is to use in vitro permeability, P-glycoprotein (Pgp) and breast cancer resistance protein efflux assays and Cu-brain/Cu-plasma in preclinical species. Cu-plasma should be used as the surrogate of Cu-brain for highly permeable non-efflux substrates with no evidence of impaired distribution into the brain. When drug penetration into the brain is impaired, we recommend using (total brain concentration * unbound fraction in the brain) as Cu-brain in preclinical species or Cu-plasma/in vitro Pgp efflux ratio if Pgp is the major limiting mechanism for brain penetration.
Experimental Investigation of Skirt Footing Subjected to Lateral Loading
Authors: Jawad Faris Waleed , Al-Ameri Abbas Fadhil Ibrahim , Yasun Azhar Sadiq
Published: March 2019

Background:

The skirt foundation is one of the powerful types of foundations to resist the lateral loads produced from natural forces, such as earthquakes and wind action, or from the type of structures, such as oil platforms and offshore wind turbines.

Objective and Methodology:

This research experimentally investigated the response of skirted footing resting on sandy soil of different states to lateral applications of loads on a small-scale physical model manufactured for this purpose. The parameters studied are the distance between the footing and the skirt and its depth.

Results and Conclusion:

The results show that the presence of the skirt behind the footing loads to an increase in bearing load and a reduction in the lateral movement whereas the skirt near or adjacent to the footing edge causes maximum increases in bearing load and reduction in lateral movement, for skirted footing. The ratio between the wall distance and the width of the footing has no effect when it is greater than one. On the other hand, the state of the soil influences the bearing load and lateral movement with different ratio of wall distance and wall depth to the width of the footing, especially when the wall distance to the footing width is less than one and the state of the soil has no effect on the bearing load and lateral movement when the ratio is more than one.
Seismic Behaviour of 17th Century Khusro Tomb due to Site-Specific Ground Motion
Authors: Prasad Arjun , Pallav Kumar , Singh Deepak K.
Published: March 2019

Introduction:

Site Specific time history analysis is performed on a 17thcentury old Khusro Tomb built-in 1622 A.D. by Sultan Nisar Begum. It is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture.

Methods:

A 3-D finite element model is prepared on Ansys Workbench. Gravity analysis results show the behaviour of Tomb due to its geometry and stress variation is plotted in a form of contour. Modal analysis results show the first three frequencies of Khusro Tombviz., 21.62, 21.68 and 25.38 Hz. In the absence of earthquake record, the stochastic finite fault model is used to generate synthetic site-specific time history to assess the seismic behaviour of the tomb.

Results and Conclusion:

Time history analysis results shows that the Khusro Tomb's geometrical configuration is adequate to withstand the earthquake due to nearest Allahabad fault. The critical elements of the Tomb are highlighted based on analysis that can be effectively used for the maintenance of the Tomb.
Parents’ Perceptions of Breathing Pattern Changes, Sleep Quality, and Fatigue in Children after Rapid Maxillary Expansion: A Survey and Case Series Study
Authors: Helal Narmin , Basri Osama , Gadi Lubabah Samir , Alhameed Amira Fahad , Grady John Marshal
Published: March 2019

Background:

Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) aims to re-establish balance between the widths of the jaws. It is mainly utilized to treat skeletal and dental manifestations associated with transverse maxillary constriction and to improve facial structures involving the nasal cavity.

Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate parents’ perceptions of breathing pattern changes after their child had undergone RME and the associated effects on sleep quality and fatigue. We also evaluated nasal cavity changes in three dimensions in six randomly selected patients.

Methods:

Ninety-one children aged 5-13 years with transverse maxillary deficiency and no major systemic diseases or syndromes were recruited. Their parents completed a 16-item questionnaire pre-treatment and 6 months post-treatment. The questionnaire included items pertaining to changes in (1) sleep apnea and breathing patterns, (2) sleep quality and fatigue, and (3) behavior. The cone beam computed tomography scans from six randomly chosen patients were also subjected to stereolithographic reconstruction of the midface pre-RME and post-RME.

Results:

Responses in the three domains exhibited good reliability. Significant improvements were observed in 59% of the items post vs. pre-RME. The overall rates of dry mouth in the morning, snoring half of the time, and heavy breathing decreased by ≥30%. The percentage change in headache in the morning, snoring loudly, and snoring half of the time was >80%. In addition, in the series of six cases, the mean difference in nasal cavity area post-RME was 4.1 mm2.

Conclusion:

Post-RME, parents perceived that their children exhibited improved behavior and were less fatigued during the day. Enhanced sleep quality and breathing patterns were also observed, but to a lesser extent.
A New Ready-To-Bake Seafood Meal Based on Pacific White Shrimp: Product Development, Cost Evaluation, Consumer Acceptability, and Shelf Life Stability
Authors: Lopes de Araújo Sinthya Meire , Gonçalves Alex Augusto
Published: March 2019

Background:

Considering that consumers are increasingly demanding and attentive to a healthy diet, while also looking for food that is easy to prepare, the objective of this work was to develop a new value-added product with Pacific white shrimp.

Methods:

Fresh shrimps were headless, eviscerated, cut, washed, immersed in brine (10% NaCl + 5% sodium tripolyphosphate – STPP, 30 min), drained, weighed, immersed in sweet-sour sauce (15 min), drained, stuffed with cream cheese, weighed, vacuum packed, frozen (-30°C / 24h), and stored (-18ºC). Microbiological, centesimal composition and physico-chemical analyzes were performed for fresh and stuffed shrimp. Confirmed the microbiological safety, samples were baked (180ºC, 20 min) and sensorially evaluated. The shelf life study for the frozen stuffed shrimp was carried out during 180 days of storage (-18ºC) and at each 45 days, samples were withdrawn for microbiological and physico-chemical analyzes.

Results:

All parameters analyzed were within the limits of Brazilian legislation, which demonstrated the initial shrimp freshness, and hygienic health care. The overall acceptance test was 8.72, the acceptability index of 96% and purchase intention of 82%. The final cost per piece was lower and viable. The nutritional value was in accordance to the literature for this shrimp, and the physico-chemical results during the shelf life evaluation were stable.

Conclusion:

The vacuum packaging, and freezing storage, associated with hygienic-sanitary care promoted the stability of microbiological assessment, and physical-chemical properties, and the overall quality and safety product for the consumer, which can be a new alternative for the shrimp industry.
Control of Early Blight of Tomato Caused by Alternaria Solani and Screening of Tomato Varieties against the Pathogen
Authors: Roy Chapol K. , Akter Nafiza , Sarkar Mohammad K.I. , Pk Moyen Uddin , Begum Nadira , Zenat Elina A. , Jahan Miskat A.A.
Published: March 2019

Introduction:

Early blight is a common disease of tomato, which is caused byAlternaria solani.

Objectives:

This work was accompanied to find an alternative to chemical fungicides and to screen tomato varieties againstAlternaria solani.

Methods:

The infected leaves were collected from five tomato fields of Shere-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka and were cultured for the identification of the infectious fungus and The phytobiocidal role of six plants againstAlternaria solaniwas evaluatedin vitromodel.

Results & Discussion:

Alternaria solaniwas identified as the infectious fungus. The growth of the test fungiTrichodermaspp.viz.,Trichoderma viride,T. harzianumcollected form NAMDEC andTrichodermasp collected from field of BCSIR was monitored as optimum PH. All the selectedTrichodermaspp. were antagonistic toA. solani.Antagonistic capacity of theTrichodermaspp. was tested by dual culture, volatile as well as non-volatile method. It was observed,T. viridewas most effective in the reduction process ofA. solaniandT. harzianum.T.viridealso showed highest inhibition in volatile and non-volatile trials. Six plant extractsviz.,Adhatoda vasica(Nees),Azadirachta indica(A Juss).Ocimujm sanctum(L),Allium sativum(L),Datura metal(Linn) andZingiber officinale(Rose) were selected to evaluate theirin vitroefficacy of 5%, 10% and 20% concentration against theA. solani.Allium sativumwas the most effective one againstA. solani, followed byAzadirachta indica. The efficacy of five fungicidesviz., Bavistin 50WP, Mancozeb 80WP, Indofil M-45, Sulcox 50WP and Tall 25EC were evaluated for their fungitoxicity against theA. solaniat 100, 200,100, 600 and 800 ppm. Tall 25EC was the most effective fungicide againstAlternaria solanifollowed by Mancozeb 80WP. After screening the five tomato varieties againstA. solani, it was revealed that BARI Tomato-9 had the highest Percentage of Disease Index (PDI) and the leaf of BARI Tomato-7 had the lowest Percentage of Disease Index (PDI).

Conclusion:

The extract ofAllium sativumwas effective to controlAlternaria solaniat prescribed concentration. The highest PDI was found in BARI tomato-9 againstAlternaria solani.
Association of Polymorphisms in the DNA Repair Genes XRCC1 and XRCC3 with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Da Silva Cristhiane A. Leite , Galera Marcial F. , Festi Regiane R. , Espinosa Mariano M. , Fernandes Vander , Blaskievicz Paula H. , Dias Eliane P.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Evidence suggests that DNA damage is implicated in the development of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

Objective:

Investigate the possible association of polymorphisms in the DNA repair genes XRCC1 and XRCC3 with SLE and its clinical and laboratory features.

Methods:

This is a case-control study comparing the polymorphisms in the DNA repair genes XRCC1 and XRCC3 in SLE patients and control individuals. Genotyping for DNA repair genes was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism in 76 patients and 82 healthy control individuals.

Results:

Our data indicated that the genotype frequencies in patients with the XRCC1 Arg399Gln and XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphisms were similar to those observed in the control group (p > 0.05). However, the frequencies of the 399Gln allele (p = 0.023, OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.36–0.93) and 241Met allele (p = 0.0039, OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.36–0.98) were significantly lower in the patients than those in the control subjects.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated that 399Gln and 241Met alleles may play a protective role in SLE susceptibility.
Neuromuscular Functional Assessment in Low Back Pain by Surface Electromyography (SEMG)
Authors: Coppeta Luca , Gentili Sandro , Mugnaini Stefano , Balbi Ottavia , Massimiani Stefano , Armieri Gianluca , Pietroiusti Antonio , Magrini Andrea
Published: March 2019

Background:

Low back pain is a major occupational health issue and a leading cause of disability globally. Significant differences in Surface Electromyography (SEMG) have been reported between persons with Low Back Pain (LBP) and normal, healthy controls. Many studies reveal that when the trunk is in full flexion there is an electrical silence in back muscles referred to as “flexion-relaxation phenomenon.” It is often absent in individuals reporting LBP and particularly chronic LBP. There are several SEMG measures that describe this phenomenon.

Objective:

To evaluate muscle activity in acute and chronic LBP and the usefulness of quick and reliable procedures to demonstrate abnormal electromyographic activity of the spine erector muscles.

Methods:

We evaluated 40 subjects aged 25-65 years. For each participant, a clinical history regarding the presence of chronic or acute LBP was collected. Each subject was evaluated with SEMG measures of spine erector muscles during standing and prone position (for acute LBP), and flex-extension movement (for chronic LBP subjects). Superficial potential was recorded and compared between groups.

Results:

In all three procedures, differences were identified in the surface electromyographic activity between the healthy controls and the one affected by LBP.

Conclusion:

The study of normal and pathologic electromyographic patterns could be a valid means to support in an objective way the presence/absence of acute and chronic LBP.
Software Reliability Prediction of Open Source Software Using Soft Computing Technique
Authors: G.L. Saini , Panwar Deepak , Singh Vijander
Published: March 2019

Background:

In software development, reliability performs a significant role. It is the nonfunctional
requirement of the software. Before using the Open Source Software (OSS) for software
development, it is essential to check the quality of the open source software. It is challenging to identify
that which OSS is suitable for development of software. Conventional software reliability prediction
models are suitable for the Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) software but it is not sufficient to
predict the software reliability of open source software as it has some extra features such as source
code is freely available and it is modifiable also.

Methods:

Most of the researchers have given the mathematical model based on crisp set theory to estimate
the reliability of software. Proposed methodology does not rely upon a scientific/mathematical
model. In this approach, fuzzy logic based soft computing approach has been used to analyze the reliability
of OSS. The goal of this paper is to propose a fuzzy logic soft computing technique based
model using three reliability metrics for estimating the security of open source software.

Results:

The software reliability model is tested on few software applications, and the outcomes affirm
the productivity of the model.

Conclusion:

In order to assess open source software reliability a fuzzy logic based soft computing
technique has been proposed.
Alum (KAl(SO4)2.12H2O) - An Eco-friendly and Versatile Acid-catalyst in Organic Transformations: A Recent Update
Authors: Brahmachari Goutam , Nurjamal Khondekar , Begam Sanchari , Mandal Mullicka , Nayek Nayana , Karmakar Indrajit , Mandal Bhagirath
Published: March 2019

Potassium alum (KAl(SO4)2.12H2O), commonly known as ‘alum’, has recently drawn the attention of synthetic chemists as an efficient, safe and eco-friendly acid catalyst in implementing a large number of organic transformations, thereby generating interesting molecular frameworks. The present review article offers an overview of the potent catalytic applications of this commercially available and low-cost inorganic sulfate salt in organic reactions reported during the period of 2014 to 2018.
Dynamic Performance Improvement of Grid Interfaced Solar Photovoltaic System using Feed-forward Compensation
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Gupta Nitin , Gupta Vikas
Published: March 2019

Background:

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) power generating system at the distribution end is
emerged as the best solutions to meet the peak power demand during the day time. However, the
highly intermittent nature of solar PV system demands a robust control, which is capable of serving
a constant load demand even during solar intermittency.

Objective:

This paper presents a three-phase single-stage grid interfaced solar PV system, which
includes PV array, perturb and observe based Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and Synchronous
Reference Frame (SRF) based inverter control.

Method:

The proposed three-phase voltage source inverter is controlled to match the DC bus voltage
drained from the MPPT controller with sensed DC-link voltage amplitude in order to extract
maximum power. The sudden change in irradiance and temperature causes oscillations in the DClink
voltage amplitude, which further influences the dynamics of the system. Therefore, Feed-
Forward Compensation (FFC) based control method is proposed to overcome the aforementioned
limitations.

Result:

The current FFC method improves the speed of reference current estimation and the response
of injected currents into the grid. As a consequence, rise time and settling time of the DClink
voltage are reduced considerably. The stability of the voltage control loop is also increased by
employing FFC based control method.

Conclusion:

The FFC-SRF based control presented in this paper offers several features including
active power injection at the Unity Power Factor (UPF), power quality conditioning and reactive
power compensation for local loads. Extensive MATLAB simulation results are presented for different
conditions to validate the robustness of the controller under changing environmental conditions.
Technology-Enabled Self-Monitoring of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease With or Without Asynchronous Remote Monitoring: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Stamenova Vess , Yang Rebecca , Engel Katrina , Liang Kyle , van Lieshout Florence , Lalingo Elizabeth , Cheung Angelica , Erwood Adam , Radina Maria , Greenwald Allen , Agarwal Payal , Sidhu Aman , Bhatia R Sacha , Shaw James , Shafai Roshan , Bhattacharyya Onil
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of mortality worldwide. Reducing the number of COPD exacerbations is an important patient outcome and a major cost-saving approach. Both technology-enabled self-monitoring (SM) and remote monitoring (RM) programs have the potential to reduce exacerbations, but they have not been directly compared with each other. As RM is a more resource-intensive strategy, it is important to understand whether it is more effective than SM.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of SM and RM on self-management behaviors, COPD disease knowledge, and respiratory status relative to standard care (SC).

METHODS

This was a 3-arm open-label randomized controlled trial comparing SM, RM, and SC completed in an outpatient COPD clinic in a community hospital. Patients in the SM and RM groups recorded their vital signs (oxygen, blood pressure, temperature, and weight) and symptoms with the Cloud DX platform every day and were provided with a COPD action plan. Patients in the RM group also received access to a respiratory therapist (RT). The RT monitored their vital signs intermittently and contacted them when their vitals varied outside of predetermined thresholds. The RT also contacted patients once a week irrespective of their vital signs or symptoms. All patients were randomized to 1 of the 3 groups and assessed at baseline and 3 and 6 months after program initiation. The primary outcome was the Partners in Health scale, which measures self-management skills. Secondary outcomes included the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, Bristol COPD Knowledge Questionnaire, COPD Assessment Test, and modified-Medical Research Council Breathlessness Scale. Patients were also asked to self-report on health system usage.

RESULTS

A total of 122 patients participated in the study, 40 in the SC, 41 in the SM, and 41 in the RM groups. Out of those patients, 7 in the SC, 5 in the SM, and 6 in the RM groups did not complete the study. There were no significant differences in the rates of study completion among the groups (P=.80).

CONCLUSIONS

Both SM and RM have shown promise in reducing acute care utilization and exacerbation frequencies. As far as we are aware, no studies to date have directly compared technology-enabled self-management with RM programs in COPD patients. We believe that this study will be an important contribution to the literature.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03741855; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03741855

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/13920
Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologists’ Use of Mobile Health Technology: Qualitative Questionnaire Study (Preprint)
Authors: Thompson Kelsey , Zimmerman Emily
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

While technology use in pediatric therapies is increasing, there is so far no research available focusing on how pediatric speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the United States use technology.

OBJECTIVE

This paper sought to determine if, and to what extent, pediatric SLPs are using mobile apps, to determine what purpose they are using them for, and to identify gaps in available technology to provide guidance for future technological development.

METHODS

Pediatric SLPs completed an online survey containing five sections: demographics, overall use, use in assessment, use in intervention, barriers, and future directions.

RESULTS

Mobile app use by 485 pediatric SLPs in the clinical setting was analyzed. Most (364/438; 83.1%) pediatric SLPs reported using technology ≤50% of the time in their clinical work, with no differences evident by age group (<35 years and ≥35 years; P=.97). Pediatric SLPs are currently using apps for intervention (399/1105; 36.1%), clinical information (241/1105; 21.8%), parent education (151/1105; 13.7%), assessment (132/1105; 12%), client education (108/1105; 9.8%), and other uses (55/1105; 5.0%). Cost (46/135; 34.1%) and lack of an evidence base (36/135; 26.7%) were the most frequently reported barriers. Most SLPs (268/380; 70.7%) desired more technology use, with no difference evident by age group (P=.81).

CONCLUSIONS

A majority of pediatric SLPs are using mobile apps less than 50% of the time in a pediatric setting and they use them more during intervention compared to assessment. While pediatric SLPs are hesitant to add to their client’s screen time, they would like more apps to be developed that are supported by research and are less expensive. Implications for future research and app development are also discussed.
Impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in the veteran population: 10-year risk outcomes
Authors: Brinton Daniel L , Simpson Annie N , Fominaya Cory E , LaRue Amanda C
Published: March 2019

Aim:
To evaluate the comparative risk of hip fracture or osteoporosis among US Veterans based on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) exposure.
Patients & methods:
A retrospective cohort study of eligible US Veterans Health Administration patients enrolled in 2003–2004 was performed to examine SSRIs’ 2-, 5- and 10-year impact on bone health using multiple logistic regression.
Results:
Veterans on SSRIs were found to be 56.7% more likely over a 10-year period to suffer a hip fracture (risk ratio: 1.567; 95% CI: 1.464–1.676) and 34.6% more likely to develop osteoporosis (risk ratio: 1.346; 95% CI: 1.319–1.374) when compared with those who were SSRI naive.
Conclusion:
SSRI usage was associated with greater risk of hip fracture and osteoporosis over a 10-year period in the veteran population, with similar effect sizes to smaller studies.
Estudio sobre la intuición artificial
Authors: Díaz Hernández Octavio
Published: March 2019

En este trabajo se exponen los conceptos y las propiedades de la intuición artificial que se han generado por medio de un análisis de fuentes de información y experimentación propia. Asimismo, se plantea una clasificación para los algoritmos que integran el procesamiento de resolución de problemas a través de la intuición artificial. En este artículo se da a conocer un modelo innovador para que se desarrollen nuevos algoritmos en control de máquinas, donde la intuición artificial es el pilar para que el procesamiento de la información se realice con mayor rapidez y sus requerimientos de procesamiento sean mínimos.
Sueños de Carnaval otomí en la Sierra Norte de Puebla
Authors: Reinoso Niche Jorgelina
Published: March 2019

En la Sierra Norte de Puebla se practica la medicina tradicional otomí en la cual los curanderos bädi aprenden todo lo que saben gracias a sus dioses llamados antiguas. Cuentan los otomíes que Zithu, el diablo, es la antigua que más poder tiene y es el gran maestro de todos los curanderos, pues posee mucha fuerza, mucho nzahki, por eso se le ofrecen grandes ofrendas durante el Carnaval otomí, pues es en esta fiesta que Zithu llega a jugar, divertirse y encontrarse con los humanos. En el Carnaval todos los curanderos colocan una ofrenda en su casa para Zithu y cada día se visita una casa y se baila alrededor de ella. Sin embargo, para poder poner una ofrenda primero tienen que soñarla, es decir, los curanderos son visitados en sueños por el diablo y éste les dice cómo deben ser.
Este artículo tiene como objetivo exponer el importante papel que tienen los curanderos dentro del Carnaval otomí que se realiza en la comunidad de Ixtololoya, municipio de Pantepec en la Sierra Norte de Puebla.