bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adolescents’ experiences of fluctuating pain in musculoskeletal disorders: A qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Khanom Sonia , McDonagh Janet E , Briggs Michelle , Bakir Ebru , McBeth John
Published: January 2020

Objectives Adolescents with chronic musculoskeletal pain experience daily fluctuations in pain. Although not all fluctuations are bothersome, pain flares are a distinct type of symptom fluctuation with greater impact. Since literature on the experience of pain flares is non-existent, the aim of this review was to (i) synthesise the qualitative literature on adolescents’ experiences of fluctuating pain in musculoskeletal disorders in order to (ii) identify knowledge gaps to inform future research on pain flares. Methods Electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO), grey literature and reference lists were searched from inception to June 2018 for qualitative studies reporting adolescents’ experiences of pain. Comprehensiveness of reporting was assessed using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Health Research. Studies were analysed using thematic synthesis. Results Of the 3787 records identified, 32 studies (n= 536) were included. Principal findings were synthesised under three themes: 1) symptom experience, 2) disruption and loss, and 3) regaining control. Each theme was experienced differently depending on adolescents’ characteristics such as their developmental status, pain condition, and the duration of the pain experience. Conclusions Adolescents with chronic musculoskeletal pain live with a daily background level of symptoms which frequently fluctuate and are associated with functional and emotional difficulties. It was not clear whether these symptoms and challenges were experienced as part of ‘typical’ fluctuations in pain, or whether they reflect symptom exacerbations classified as ‘flares’. Further research is needed to explore the frequency and characteristics of pain flares, and how they differ from their typical fluctuations in pain.
Effect and safety of topical application of tranexamic acid to reduce perioperative blood loss in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture undergoing PFNA
Authors: Wei Huiping , Huang Tianji , He Jianfeng , Xia Menghong
Published: January 2020

Background: The specific method and dose of tranexamic acid (TXA) topically applied in intertrochanteric fracture have not been well established. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of TXA topically treated by our protocol in perioperative bleeding management for elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture treated undergoing proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA). Methods: A retrospective comparative analysis was performed. Group TXA was comprised of 82 patients with topical use of TXA and group control was comprised of 82 patients without TXA during the procedure of PFNA. Intraoperative, total and hidden blood loss, drainage volume, postoperative blood transfusion volume and complications were compared between the two groups. Results: Intraoperative, total and hidden blood loss, and drainage volume were significantly lower in the TXA group than those in the control group (P=0.012, P<0.01, P<0.01, P=0.014, respectively). The volume and rate of blood transfusion in TXA group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.01). There were no significant differences in complications between two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Topical application of TXA offers an effective and safe option in reducing perioperative blood loss and transfusion for elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures undergoing PFNA.
The gender-specific associations between body composition, countermovement jump performance and bone quality in a young Chinese population
Authors: ding zenghui , Dr Yubing Xu , Dr Yanyan Chen , Yang Xianjun , Sun Yining , Xia Yue
Published: January 2020

Background: Prophylactic interventions against osteoporosis require a determination of the factors that influence the bone status during adulthood. This study aimed to investigate the associations between body composition parameters (body height (BH), body weight (BW), fat free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), lower limb muscle mass (LLMM), lower limb fat mass (LLFM)), countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, and calcaneal bone stiffness (SI) in a population of young adults. Methods: The study population included 560 Chinese adults (369 females), aged 20-40 years. Body composition was obtained by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The CMJ performance (CMJ height (CMJH), the impulse of CMJ phase (ICMJ) and potential energy in the CMJ phase (ECMJ)) was obtained by 3 maximal CMJ trials on ZTJ-II system. Bone quality was measured by quantitative ultrasound (QUS). Results: The present study found BW, FFM and LLMM had significant correlations with SI both in males (r=0.20-0.24, p<0.05) and females (r=0.12-0.20, p<0.05). However, FM and LLFM had positive correlations with SI only in females (p<0.05). CMJ performances, including CMJH, ICMJ and ECMJ, had significant positive correlations with SI in men (r=0.415, p<0.01; r=0.32, p<0.01; and r=0.39, p<0.01, respectively) and women (r=0.248, p<0.01; r=0.26, p<0.01; r=0.3, p<0.01, respectively). Conclusions: This provides evidence that local muscle mass have greater positive associations with calcaneal bone quality than total FFM, and local muscle mass and power are the determinations of region bone quality in young adults. The bone–muscle relationship is more prominent in males than in females.
Deep expression scrutiny of juxtaposed wild and cultivated lentil furnishes new insight into aluminium tolerance mechanism
Authors: Singh Dharmendra , Singh Chandan Kumar , Taunk Jyoti , Tomar Ram Sewak Singh , Pal Madan , Konjengbam Noren Singh , Singh M. Premjit , Sharma Ph Ranjit , Sengar Rakesh Singh
Published: January 2020

Background: Aluminium (Al) stress hinders crop productivity in acidic soils. Lentil contains rich source of protein and micronutrients and cultivated in different parts of world. To enhance knowledge about Al toxicity tolerance, present study emphasizes on mechanistic analysis of genes associated with Al stress through de novo transcriptomic analysis of tolerant (L-4602), wild (ILWL-15) and sensitive (BM-4) genotypes. Result: Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform evaluated contigs ranging from 15,305 to 18,861 for all the samples with N 50 values of 1795 bp. Four annotation softwares revealed differential regulation of several genes where 30,158 genes were specifically up-regulated for combinations under Al stress conditions alone. Top up-regulated Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) in tolerant cultivar when compared to the sensitive one were found to be involved in protein transport as well as degradation, defences, cell growth and development. Wild v/s cultivar comparison revealed upregulation of wild DEGs that are involved in regulation of transcription in differentiating cells, pre-mRNA splicing, catalysis and protein ubiquitination. Based on assembled Unigenes, 89,722 high-quality SNPs and 39,874 SSRs were detected. Twelve selected genes were validated using qRT-PCR. KEGG pathway analysis extracted 8,757 GO annotation terms within molecular, cellular and biological processes. Pathway analysis indicated that organic acid synthesis and their transportation along with detoxification of ROS, an alternate pathway involving metacaspase-1,4,9 for programmed cell death were also significantly induced due to Al stress. Conclusion: Present study unveils the characterization of differential transcripts generated under Al stress indicating Al tolerance as a multiplex phenomenon which will directly widen crop improvement programmes for Al toxicity utilizing molecular approaches.
Silencing of long noncoding RNA H19 alleviates pulmonary injury, inflammation and fibrosis in acute respiratory distress syndrome rats through regulating MicroRNA-423-5p
Authors: Mu Xianyu , Wang Hongrong , Li Haiyong
Published: January 2020

Background: This study aimed to explore the function of long noncoding RNA H19 (H19) on pulmonary injury, inflammation and fibrosis in lipoproteins (LPS)-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) rats. Methods: The LPS-induced ARDS rat model was established by intratracheal instillation with 2 mg/kg LPS. QRT-PCR was performed to detect the expression of H19, miR-423-5p, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6,, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Histology score was detected by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and the concentration of VEGF in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The protein expression of fiber factors was measured by western blot. The degree of fibrosis was observed by masson-trichrome staining. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to determine the binding site between miR-423-5p and H19.Results: The expression of H19 was significantly increased, while miR-423-5p was decreased in LPS-induced ARDS rats. Silencing of H19 decreased the mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1 and VEGF in LPS-induced ARDS rats, and decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6and the concentration of VEGF in BALF, histology score of LPS-induced ARDS rats. H19 inhibition also decreased the fibrosis score and the proteins expression of fiber factors of LPS-induced ARDS rats. Furthermore, miR-423-5p eliminated the effect of H19 on LPS-induced MH-S cells.Conclusions: Silencing of H19 ameliorated the pulmonary injury, inflammation and fibrosis of LPS-induced ARDS through regulating miR-423-5p, which may be a promising therapeutic strategy to treat ARDS.
Rapid Detection of Babesia motasi Responsible for Human Babesiosis by Cross-priming Amplification combined with a vertical flow
Authors: Wang Jinming , Gao Shandian , Zhang Shangdi , He Xin , Liu Junlong , Li Youquan , Liu Guangyuan , Luo Jianxun , Guan Guiquan , Yin Hong
Published: January 2020

Background: Babesia motasi is known as an etiological agent of human and ovine babesiosis. Diagnosis of babesiosis is traditionally performed by microscopy, examining Giemsa-stained thin peripheral blood smears. Rapid detection and accurate identification of species are desirable for clinical care and epidemiological studies. Methods: An easy to operate molecular method, which requires less capital equipment and incorporates cross priming amplification combined with a vertical flow (CPA-VF) visualization strip for rapid detection and identification of B. motasi. Results: The CPA-VF targets the 18S rRNA gene and has a detection limit of 50 fg per reaction; no cross reaction was observed with other piroplasms infective to sheep or Babesia infective to humans. CPA-VF and real-time (RT)-PCR had sensitivities of 95.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 78.1-99.4%) and 90.5% (72-97.6%) and specificities of 95.8 (80.5-99.5%) and 97.9 (83.5-99.9%), respectively, versus microscopy and nested (n) PCR combined with gene sequencing. The clinical performance of the CPA-VF assay was evaluated with field blood samples from sheep (n = 240) in Jintai county, Gansu Province, and clinical specimens (n = 492) obtained from patients bitten by ticks. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the CPA-VF is a rapid, accurate, nearly instrument-free molecular diagnostic approach for identification of B. motasi. Therefore, it could be an alternative technique for epidemiological investigations and diagnoses of ovine and/or human babesiosis caused by B. motasi, especially in resource-limited regions.Keywords: Ovine babesiosis, human babesiosis, Babesia motasi, cross priming amplification, vertical flow visualization strip, detection, identification
Trends in development of diatom flora from sub-recent lake sediments of the Lake Bolshoy Kharbey (Bolshezemelskaya tundra, Russia)
Authors: Palagushkina Olga , Nazarova Larisa , Frolova Larisa
Published: January 2020

We studied diatom assemblages of the proglacial arctic lake Bolshoy Kharbey (Bolshezemelskaya tundra, Russian Arctic) from a short sediments core covering the last ca. 200 years. In total, 121 taxa from 2 classes, 5 orders, 18 families, and 50 genera were identified. The diatom flora included species with mainly cosmopolitan distribution. The assemblages were dominated by alkaliphilic benthic diatoms preferring standing — flowing waters, indifferent to salinity and moderate temperature conditions. The main changes in diatom assemblages took place in ca. 1870 and 1980. After 1870, which can be attributed to the end of the Little Ice Age, the species richness rose, especially of planktonic centric and small penate diatoms. This rise of diatom diversity took place most probably in response to climate warming, related to it prolongation of the growing season and period of open water. A negative trend in the evenness of the diatom assemblages during the last decades can be seen as an early-warning signal indicating a decrease of stability of the lake ecosystem.
Migration behaviour of fluoride in contaminated soils near ammophos production plant: laboratory studies
Authors: Litvinovich Andrey , Pavlova Olga , Lavrishchev Anton , Bure Vladimir , Saljnikov Elmira
Published: January 2020

Fluoride contamination of irrigated alkaline soils (Irragric Anthrosols) is a common problem in the areas of vast cotton production in Uzbekistan. Large number of laboratory measurements using corresponding models allows deeper studying the fluoride mobility in contaminated soil in the vicinity of Ammophos production factory. In a series of column experiments the migration ability of fluoride was studied in Irragric Anthrosols of different particle size distribution and four different experiments using near neutral and acidic washing water in the low, moderate and highly contaminated soils. It has been established that studied soils, located in the zone of airborne emissions from the Ammophos production plants, have a weak fluoride-holding capacity. The intensity of fluoride migration was conditioned by the initial level of soil contamination. Repeated simulated irrigation of the soil didn’t result in complete removal of fluoride. At low contamination level (3.5 mg F/kg soil) on sandy-loam soil, concentration of fluoride increased with increasing of the volume of leaching moisture. With medium contamination level (6.1 mg F/kg soil) on a loamy soil, the average leaching rate was near zero throughout the measurement interval. At high contamination level (17.5 mg/kg) on heavy textured soil, the increase in the concentration of fluoride in the eluates was observed throughout the entire study interval and posed a threat of ground water contamination.
1991-2002 Yılları Arasında Koalisyon Hükümetleri Yönetimi
Authors: Çakır Enes Malik
Published: January 2020

Parlamenter demokratik sistem içerisinde yer alan hükümet biçimlerinden birisi koalisyon yönetimidir. Koalisyon, birden fazla siyasi partinin ortak amaç ve esaslar çerçevesinde iş birliği içinde bulunan, bu ortak amaçlar için birbirleriyle iletişim ve uyum içinde çalışarak güç birliğine dayalı bir hükümet oluşturma biçimi olarak ifade edilebilir. Türkiye’nin 1961-1965, 1974-1979 ve 1991-2002 arasındaki yıllarda koalisyon geçmişine sahip olduğu bilinmektedir. Parlamenter demokratik bir sistem olan koalisyon kavramının genellikle Türkiye’de hükümetlerin işlevlerine bakılarak istikrarsızlıkla eşdeğer tutulduğu söylenebilir. Bu çalışmada öncelikle koalisyonun tanımı ve çeşitleri, ardından Türkiye’de kurulan koalisyon hükümetleri kısaca açıklanacaktır. Daha sonra çalışmanın temel kısmı olan 1991 ve 2002 yılları arasında kurulan koalisyon hükümetleri, demokratik tutumları ve istikrar açısından analize tabi tutulacaktır. Dönemin siyasi olaylarının da koalisyon hükümetlerine olan etkileri de analiz içerisinde ele alınacaktır. Çalışmada “İstikrar açısından koalisyon yönetimleri verimli midir?” ve “1991-2002 arası dönemde hangi mevcut siyasi olaylarla koalisyon hükümetleri arasında ilişki var mıdır?” soruları, araştırma sorusu olarak belirlenmiştir. Bu soruların cevaplarını analiz etmek için bu çalışmada kütüphane kaynakları, internet tabanlı makaleler ve gazeteler kaynak olarak kullanılmıştır.
Clinical and Translational Research Challenges in Biliary Tract Cancers
Authors: Lamarca Angela , Frizziero Melissa , McNamara Mairéad G. , Valle Juan W.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Biliary Tract Cancers (BTC) are rare malignancies with a poor prognosis.
There are many challenges encountered in treating these patients in daily practice as well as in clinical,
translational and basic research.

Objective:

This review summarises the most relevant challenges in clinical and translational research in
BTCs and suggests potential solutions towards an improvement in quality of life and outcomes of patients
diagnosed with such malignancies.

Findings:

The main challenge is the low number of patients with BTCs, complicated by the aggressive
natural behaviour of cancer and the lack of funding sources for research. In addition, the clinical characteristics
of these patients and the specific cancer-related complications challenge clinical research and
clinical trial recruitment. It is worth highlighting that BTCs are a group of different malignancies (cholangiocarcinoma,
gallbladder cancer and ampullary cancer) rather than a unique homogeneous disease.
These subgroups differ not only in molecular aspects, but also in clinical and demographic characteristics.
In addition, tailored imaging and quality of life assessment are required to tackle some of the issues
specific to BTCs. Finally, difficulties in tissue acquisition both in terms of biopsy size and inclusion
of sufficient tumour within the samples, may adversely impact translational and basic research.

Conclusion:

Increasing awareness among patients and clinicians regarding BTC and the need for further
research and treatment development may address some of the main challenges in BTC research.
International collaboration is mandatory to progress the field.
Nanodiagnostic Attainments and Clinical Perspectives on C-Reactive Protein: Cardiovascular Disease Risks Assessment
Authors: Letchumanan Iswary , Arshad M.K. Md , Gopinath Subash C.B.
Published: January 2020

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has become one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality
in both men and women. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), ischemic heart
disease is the major issue due to the narrowing of the coronary artery by plaque formation on the artery
wall, which causes an inadequate flow of oxygen and blood to the heart and is called ‘coronary artery
disease’. The CVD death rate increased by up to 15% in 2016 (~17.6 million) compared to the past
decade. This tremendous increment urges the development of a suitable biomarker for rapid and early
diagnosis. Currently, C-reactive protein (CRP) is considered an outstanding biomarker for quick and
accurate outcomes in clinical analyses. Various techniques have also been used to diagnose CVD, including
surface plasmon resonance (SPR), colorimetric assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
(ELISA), fluoro-immunoassays, chemiluminescent assays, and electrical measurements. This review
discusses such diagnostic strategies and how current, cutting-edge technologies have enabled the development
of high-performance detection methodologies. Concluding remarks have been made concerning
the clinical significance and the use of nanomaterial in medical diagnostics towards nanotheranostics.
Preparation and Applications of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Novel Drug Delivery Systems: An Overview
Authors: Hooshmand Sara , Hayat Seyed Mohammad Gheibi , Ghorbani Ahmad , Khatami Mehrdad , Pakravanan Kimya , Darroudi Majid
Published: January 2020

Nanocarriers, as drug delivery frameworks, have been intended to enhance the pharmacological
and restorative properties of traditional medications. The consolidation of medical atoms
as nanocarriers can function as the drug that is required against corruption, as well as offer
the desired potential outcomes in regards to targeting and controlled discharge. In the present
overview article, applications of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in medication conveyance are
outlined. The MNPs have increased the excitement due to their biocompatibility - low poisonous
quality, and their capacity to be handled in a magnetic field, which enables their applications as
drug-bearing vehicles. The simplicity of surface modification of these particles can provide opportunities
for targeting the moieties that are linked to the particle surface. We trust that the intriguing
particles will gain further attention alongside achievements in the current ones in the near
future.
Chemosensitization of Therapy Resistant Tumors: Targeting Multiple Cell Signaling Pathways by Lupeol, A Pentacyclic Triterpene
Authors: Maurya Santosh K. , Shadab G.G.H.A. , Siddique Hifzur R.
Published: January 2020

Background:

The resistance of cancer cells to different therapies is one of the major stumbling blocks for successful cancer treatment. Various natural and pharmaceuticals drugs are unable to control drug-resistance cancer cell's growth. Also, chemotherapy and radiotherapy have several side effects and cannot apply to the patient in excess. In this context, chemosensitization to the therapy-resistant cells by non-toxic phytochemicals could be an excellent alternative to combat therapy-resistant cancers.

Objective:

To review the currently available literature on chemosensitization of therapy resistance cancers by Lupeol for clinically approved drugs through targeting different cell signaling pathways.

Methods:

We reviewed relevant published articles in PubMed and other search engines from 1999 to 2019 to write this manuscript. The key words used for the search were “Lupeol and Cancer”, “Lupeol and Chemosensitization”, “Lupeol and Cell Signaling Pathways”, “Cancer Stem Cells and Lupeol” etc. The published results on the chemosensitization of Lupeol were compared and discussed.

Results:

Lupeol chemosensitizes drug-resistant cancer cells for clinically approved drugs. Lupeol alone or in combination with approved drugs inhibits inflammation in different cancer cells through modulation of expression of IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. Lupeol, through altering the expression levels of BCL-2, BAX, Survivin, FAS, Caspases, and PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway, significantly induce cell deaths among therapy-resistant cells. Lupeol also modulates the molecules involved in cell cycle regulation such as Cyclins, CDKs, P53, P21, and PCNA in different cancer types.

Conclusion:

Lupeol chemosensitizes the therapy-resistant cancer cells for the treatment of various clinically approved drugs via modulating different signaling pathways responsible for chemoresistance cancer. Thus, Lupeol might be used as an adjuvant molecule along with clinically approved drugs to reduce the toxicity and increase the effectiveness.
Icariin Stimulates hFOB 1.19 Osteoblast Proliferation and Differentiation via OPG/RANKL Mediated by the Estrogen Receptor
Authors: Sun Lin-Jun , Li Chong , Wen Xiang-hao , Guo Lu , Guo Zi-Fen , Liao Lan-qing , Guo Yu
Published: January 2020

Background::

Icariin (ICA), one of the main effective components isolated from the traditional
Chinese herb Epimedium brevicornu Maxim., has been reported to possess extensive pharmacological
actions, including enhanced sexual function, immune regulation, anti-inflammation, and antiosteoporosis.

Methods::

Our study was designed to investigate the effect of ICA on cell proliferation and differentiation
and the molecular mechanism of OPG/RANKL mediated by the Estrogen Receptor (ER) in
hFOB1.19 human osteoblast cells.

Results::

The experimental results show that ICA can stimulate cell proliferation and increase the activity
of Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Osteocalcin (BGP) and I Collagen (Col I) and a number of calcified
nodules. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression of OPG and RANKL and the OPG/
RANKL mRNA and protein expression ratios were upregulated by ICA. The above-mentioned results
indicated that the optimal concentration of ICA for stimulating osteogenesis was 50ng/mL. Subsequent
mechanistic studies comparing 50ng/mL ICA with an estrogen receptor antagonist demonstrated that
the effect of the upregulated expression is connected with the estrogen receptor. In conclusion, ICA
can regulate bone formation by promoting cell proliferation and differentiation and upregulating the
OPG/RANKL expression ratio by the ER in hFOB1.19 human osteoblast cells.
Status of Programmed Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1) by Immunohistochemistry and Scoring Algorithms
Authors: Giunchi Francesca , Gevaert Thomas , Scarpelli Marina , Fiorentino Michelangelo
Published: January 2020

The detection of the Programmed Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1) protein by immunohistochemistry
is currently the only approved test predictive of response to drugs targeting the PD1/PDL1 axis.
The role of this test is debated since several reagents have been used as companion diagnostics for different
drugs on diverse immunostaining platforms. In addition, different scoring systems for PD-L1
immunohistochemistry have been applied in the registration studies regarding single drugs. This review
deals with the various issues that are related to the immunohistochemical test for PD-L1. We
discuss currently unsolved problems such as the advantages and the flaws of PD-L1 immunohistochemistry;
the choice of the best reagents and the best scoring system. Finally, we review the current
experiences on the role of immunohistochemistry for PD-L1 in clinical trials with immune checkpoint
inhibitors.
Micro-RNA and the Features of Metabolic Syndrome: A Narrative Review
Authors: Das Srijit , Mohamed Isa Naina , Teoh Seong Lin , Thevaraj Tarrsini , Ku Ahmad Nasir Ku Nurmahirah , Zawawi Azwani , Salim Hazwan Hazrin , Zhou Dennis Kheng
Published: January 2020

The incidence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) has risen globally. MetS includes a combination
of features, i.e. blood glucose impairment, excess abdominal/body fat dyslipidemia and elevated
blood pressure. Other than conventional treatment with drugs, the main preventive approaches include
lifestyle changes, weight loss, diet control and adequate exercise also proves to be beneficial. MicroRNAs
(miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play critical regulatory roles in most biological
and pathological processes. In the present review, we discuss various miRNAs which are related to
MetS by targeting various organs, including the pancreas, liver, skeletal muscles and adipose tissues.
These miRNAs have the effect on insulin production and secretion (miR-9, miR-124a, miR-130a,b,
miR152, miR-335, miR-375), insulin resistance (miR-29), adipogenesis (miR-143, miR148a) and lipid
metabolism (miR-192). We also discuss the miRNAs as potential biomarkers and future therapeutic
targets. This review may be beneficial for molecular biologists and clinicians dealing with MetS.
Monoterpenes: Essential Oil Components with Valuable Features
Authors: Dehsheikh Anahita Boveiri , Sourestani Mohammad Mahmoodi , Dehsheikh Paria Boveiri , Mottaghipisheh Javad , Vitalini Sara , Iriti Marcello
Published: January 2020

Medicinal plants have a wide range of secondary metabolites including monoterpene. These volatile compounds are the main components of essential oils, belonging to the isoprenoid group and possessing valuable features for plants and humans. This review provides comprehensive information on chemical structures and classification of monoterpenes. It describes their biosynthesis pathways and introduces plant families and species rich in noteworthy monoterpenes. Bio-activities, pharmacological and pesticide effects as well as their mechanism of action are reported. Applications of these compounds in various industries are also included.
Freeze-Dried Clopidogrel Loaded Lyotropic Liquid Crystal: Box-Behnken Optimization, In-Vitro and In-Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Hakeem Eman A. , El-Mahrouk Galal M. , Abdelbary Ghada , Teaima Mahmoud H.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Clopidogrel (CLP) suffers from extensive first pass metabolism results in a
negative impact on its oral systemic bioavailability. Cubosomes are Lyotropic Liquid Crystalline (LLC)
nano-systems comprising monoolein, a steric stabilizer and an aqueous system, it considered a promising
carrier for different pharmaceutical compounds. Box-Behnken Design (BBD) is an efficient tool for
process analysis and optimization skipping forceful treatment combinations.

Objective:

The study was designed to develop freeze-dried clopidogrel loaded LLC (cubosomes) for
enhancement of its oral bioavailability.

Methods:

A 33 BBD was adopted, the studied independent factors were glyceryl monooleate (GMO
lipid phase), Pluronic F127 (PL F127steric stabilizer) and polyvinyl alcohol powder (stabilizer). Particle
Size (PS), Polydispersity Index (PDI) and Zeta Potential (ZP) were set as independent response variables.
Seventeen formulae were prepared in accordance with the bottom up approach and in-vitro evaluated
regarding PS, PDI and ZP. Statistical analysis and optimization were achieved using design expert
software®, then the optimum suggested formula was prepared, in-vitro revaluated, freeze-dried with 3%
mannitol (cryoprotectant), solid state characterized and finally packed in hard gelatin capsule for comparative
in-vitro release and in-vivo evaluation to Plavix®.

Results:

Results of statistical analysis of each individual response revealed a quadratic model for PS
and PDI where a linear model for ZP. The optimum suggested formula with desirability factor equal
0.990 consisting of (200 mg GMO, 78.15 mg PL F127 and 2% PVA). LC/MS/MS study confirmed
significant higher C>max, AUC>0-24h and AUC>0-∞ than that of Plavix®.

Conclusion:

The results confirm the capability of developed carrier to overcome the low oral bioavailability.
Comparative Analysis of Classification Methods with PCA and LDA for Diabetes
Authors: Choubey Dilip Kumar , Kumar Manish , Shukla Vaibhav , Tripathi Sudhakar , Dhandhania Vinay Kumar
Published: January 2020

Background:

The modern society is extremely prone to many life-threatening diseases, which can be easily controlled as well as cured if diagnosed at an early stage. The development and implementation of a disease diagnostic system have gained huge popularity over the years. In the current scenario, there are certain factors such as environment, sedentary lifestyle, genetic (hereditary) are the major factors behind the life threatening diseases such as ‘diabetes.’ Moreover, diabetes has achieved the status of the modern man’s leading chronic disease. So one of the prime needs of this generation is to develop a state-of-the-art expert system which can predict diabetes at a very early stage with a minimum of complexity and in an expedited manner. The primary objective of this work is to develop an indigenous and efficient diagnostic technique for detection of diabetes.

Method & Discussion:

The proposed methodology comprises of two phases: In the first phase The Pima Indian Diabetes Dataset (PIDD) has been collected from the UCI machine learning repository databases and Localized Diabetes Dataset (LDD) has been gathered from Bombay Medical Hall, Upper Bazar Ranchi, Jharkhand, India. In the second phase, the dataset has been processed through two different approaches. The first approach entails classification through Adaboost, Classification via Regression (CVR), Radial Basis Function Network (RBFN), K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) on Pima Indian Diabetes Dataset and Localized Diabetes Dataset. In the second approach, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) have been applied as a feature reduction method followed by using the same set of classification methods used in the first approach. Among all of the implemented classification methods, PCA_CVR achieves the maximum performance for both the above mentioned datasets.

Conclusion:

In this article, comparative analysis of outcomes obtained by with and without the use of PCA and LDA for the same set of classification method has been done w.r.t performance assessment. Finally, it has been concluded that PCA & LDA both are useful to remove the insignificant features, decreasing the expense and computation time while improving the ROC and accuracy. The used methodology may similarly be applied to other medical diseases.
Synthesis of Non-Toxic Fe2(WO4)3 Photocatalyst with Efficient Performance
Authors: Aslam Imran , Saqib Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad W. , Boddula Rajender , Mahmood Tariq , Ghani Usman
Published: January 2020

Background:

Environmental pollution has become a worldwide problem. In this regard,
decontamination of wastewater and removal of organic pollutants from environment by photocatalysis
has emerged as one of the most promising techniques from the last few decades.

Objective :

In order to degrade the harmful pollutants from wastewater, highly efficient non-toxic
Fe2(WO4)3 photocatalyst was synthesized via co precipitation method. The photocatalytic activity of
the as-synthesized material was examined by degrading methylene blue (MB) under various conditions.

Methods:

For this purpose, different experimental parameters such as catalyst load, model compound
concentration, H2O2 percentage and pH value were adjusted for excellent degradation of MB, and response
surface methodology (RSM) along with central composite design (CCD) as adequate model
was employed for optimization process.

Results:

The experimental results revealed that 1.2 g/L of catalyst load, 10 g/L for dye concentration,
0.5% of H2O2 and pH 7 were found to be the optimized values for the aforesaid parameters. The optimized
values led to 93% degradation of MB under UV light exposure. In addition, toxicological
studies were analysed using various bioassays for both, untreated and treated samples and a conspicuous
reduction (69.12%) in the toxicity level was observed.

Conclusion:

The study signifies that this method is useful for reclamation of water, making it useful
for industry and irrigation.
Challenging MXene-based Nanomaterials and Composite Membranes for Water Treatment
Authors: Wang Ling , Xu Zehai , Fu Delong , Zhang Guoliang
Published: January 2020

Background:

The development of new emerging nanomaterials for water treatment has attracted more and more interests recently. MXenes is a generic term for a series of new two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides and carbonitrides materials which have graphene-like structure. As a new type of 2D lamellar nanomaterial, many researches have focused on the design and synthesis of MXene-based nanomaterials owing to their large number of inter-layer void with the two-dimensional stacking structure, large specific surface area, rich and adjustable surface functional groups and strong hydrophilicity. On account of their unique properties, related discussion and potential of 2D MXenes nanomaterials for membrane separation and water treatment applications are provided.

Objective:

The goal of this paper is to review new emerging 2D MXenes nanomaterials for the fabrication of various composite membranes and related applications for water treatment.

Method:

In this review, the design and synthesis of MXene-based composite membranes for water treatment was extensively discussed.

Results:

Membrane separation technology is an effective approach for solving water pollution problem due to its low energy consumption, environment friendly and easy operation. MXene-based membranes with different molecular sieving behaviors for small organic molecules and ions and corresponding applications in water purification and desalination were discussed.

Conclusion:

Although composite membranes constructed by 2D MXenes nanomaterials can be prepared to achieve high water flux and satisfactory rejection, most researches focused on the exploration of membrane formation with multi-layered compound or few-layered MXenes. In the near future, the functional properties of the MXene itself should be paid more attention for development of various novel membranes.
Serum Levels of Granulocyte-Macrophage-colony-stimulating Factor and Stem-cell Factor During Liver Regeneration after Partial Hepatectomy in Humans
Authors: Fiume Diego , Lenci Ilaria , Milana Martina , Manzia Tommaso M. , Massoud Renato , Tariciotti Laura , Russo Carmelo , Toti Luca , Baiocchi Leonardo
Published: January 2020

Background:

Multiple biological functions have been recognized regarding Granulocyte
Macrophage-Colony Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF) and Stem Cell Factor (SCF).

Aim:

To evaluate the serum changes of GM-CSF and SCF in patients undergoing surgical resection
for liver tumor, in the regenerative phase after surgery in order to identify the possible relationship
with the patient, tumor or surgical variables.

Methods:

Thirty-two consecutive patients (50% male, median age 66), undergoing hepatic resection
of liver neoplasm, were evaluated. The liver tumor was Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in 44% of
cases. Other tumors were cholangiocarcinoma and metastasis. Serum levels of GM-CSF and SCF
were assessed at baseline and 2 days, 7 days and 4 weeks after surgery. Personal and clinical patient
data were also recorded. The statistical analysis was carried out using t-test for unpaired data or
ANOVA (repeated measure) for continuous variables and Fisher test for discrete variables.

Results:

GM-CSF levels remained constant after surgery and were compared to baseline values. SCF
levels, on the other hand, increased during the time, after surgery. The evaluation of SCF levels (fold
increase) according to surgical, patient and tumor variables evidenced some differences. At day 7 and
week 4, SCF levels were statistically increased: i) in patients undergoing a large resection in comparison
with others (p<0.05); ii) in patients non-cirrhotic in comparison with cirrhotic ones (p=0.02) and
finally; iii) in patients with non-HCC tumor in comparison with HCC ones (p=0.02).

Conclusions:

During liver regeneration in humans, SCF serum levels are increased allowing to hypothesize
a possible role of this chemokine during tissue growth and remodeling.
Recurrence of FSGS after Kidney Transplantation in Adults
Authors: Uffing Audrey , Pérez-Sáez Maria José , Mazzali Marilda , Manfro Roberto C. , Bauer Andrea Carla , de Sottomaior Drumond Frederico , O’Shaughnessy Michelle M. , Cheng Xingxing S. , Chin Kuo-Kai , Ventura Carlucci G. , Agena Fabiana , David-Neto Elias , Mansur Juliana B. , Kirsztajn Gianna Mastroianni , Tedesco-Silva Helio , Neto Gilberto M.V. , Arias-Cabrales Carlos , Buxeda Anna , Bugnazet Mathilde , Jouve Thomas , Malvezzi Paolo , Akalin Enver , Alani Omar , Agrawal Nikhil , La Manna Gaetano , Comai Giorgia , Bini Claudia , Muhsin Saif A. , Riella Miguel Carlos , Hokazono Silvia R. , Farouk Samira S. , Haverly Meredith , Mothi Suraj Sarvode , Berger Stefan P. , Cravedi Paolo , Riella Leonardo V.
Published: January 2020

Background and objectives

FSGS recurrence after kidney transplantation is a major risk factor for graft loss. However, the natural history, clinical predictors, and response to treatment remain unclear because of small sample sizes and poor generalizability of single-center studies, and disease misclassification in registry-based studies. We therefore aimed to determine the incidence, predictors, and treatment response of recurrent FSGS in a large cohort of kidney transplant recipients.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

The Post-Transplant Glomerular Disease (TANGO) project is an observational, multicenter, international cohort study that aims to investigate glomerular disease recurrence post-transplantation. Transplant recipients were screened for the diagnosis of idiopathic FSGS between 2005 and 2015 and details were recorded about the transplant, clinical outcomes, treatments, and other risk factors.

Results

Among 11,742 kidney transplant recipients screened for FSGS, 176 had a diagnosis of idiopathic FSGS and were included. FSGS recurred in 57 patients (32%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 25% to 39%) and 39% of them lost their graft over a median of 5 (interquartile range, 3.0–8.1) years. Multivariable Cox regression revealed a higher risk for recurrence with older age at native kidney disease onset (hazard ratio [HR], 1.37 per decade; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.56). Other predictors were white race (HR, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.08 to 4.22), body mass index at transplant (HR, 0.89 per kg/m2; 95% CI, 0.83 to 0.95), and native kidney nephrectomies (HR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.16 to 6.57). Plasmapheresis and rituximab were the most frequent treatments (81%). Partial or complete remission occurred in 57% of patients and was associated with better graft survival.

Conclusions

Idiopathic FSGS recurs post-transplant in one third of cases and is associated with a five-fold higher risk of graft loss. Response to treatment is associated with significantly better outcomes but is achieved in only half of the cases.
Las teorías del conflicto y fenomenológica En el análisis sociojurídico del derecho
Authors: Silva García Germán
Published: January 2020

Se realiza, a partir del análisis e investigación de un caso judicial, mediático y político, un ejercicio teórico para demostrar la trascendencia de las teorías sociológicas del conflicto y fenomenológica en el análisis sociojurídico del Derecho. Estas teorías son incorporadas en un modelo de sociología integral, de las dimensiones macrosociológica y microsociológica de la vida social, que potencian un marco teórico más idóneo y completo para ser utilizado por la sociología jurídica. El análisis del caso estudiado demostrará que el Derecho penal es utilizado por un grupo social de un modo selectivo/discriminatorio, como un instrumento de poder en un contexto de conflicto social y político, por medio de un proceso de construcción social de la realidad que recurre a imaginarios, definiciones, interpretaciones e imágenes, con el propósito de neutralizar y excluir a otro grupo social competidor en el escenario político electoral.
Una fundamentación universalita de los derechos humanos
Authors: Silva Mendoza Rogelio
Published: January 2020

El artículo pretende establecer el contexto teórico general para propiciar una discusión en torno a la apremiante tarea de fundamentar los derechos humanos desde un criterio universalista. Se intentará proveer a los derechos humanos de una justificación teórica universal más allá de la que contiene su simple enunciación como derechos universales. Se recurre a la filosofía normativa kantiana, que es un paradigma del análisis de los enunciados con contenido normativo, para acometer el propósito de dotar a los derechos humanos de una fundamentación propiamente normativa, es decir, en su contenido intrínseco como normas. Una fundamentación en sentido universalista es aquella que tiene su fuerza vinculante en el contenido de la norma en sí misma, en su estructura lógica.
México offshore. El oscuro papel de la miscelánea fiscal
Authors: González Serrano Miriam
Published: January 2020

En el ámbito fiscal internacional, se busca que los países no compitan en forma desleal a través de regímenes fiscales preferentes o paraísos fiscales que erosionan la base tributaria de los residentes en terceros países. Recientemente, México ha sido cuestionado por su baja tributación y regímenes de beneficio para los extranjeros. Nosotros sostenemos que algunos de estos regímenes están previstos en la Resolución Miscelánea Fiscal, la cual no cuenta con un marco jurídico acabado, ya que no se obliga a sus creadores a realizar análisis económicos y jurídicos previos ni posteriores a su implementación, ni estudios sobre sus repercusiones a nivel internacional. Este inadecuado control regulatorio y financiero, encuadra en los supuestos para calificar al país como una jurisdicción con regímenes fiscales preferentes de acuerdo a los criterios de la OCDE y, en el plano doméstico, implica que no existe rendición de cuentas debida por la autoridad.
Support policy preferences of grain family farms: evidence from Huang-huai-hai plain of China
Authors: Yu Lili , Niu Ziheng , Yin Shijiu , Gao Yang , Tian Borui
Published: January 2020

This study uses the choice experiment method with 570 grain family farms located in the Huang-huai-hai Plain and determine various support policy attributes and the attribute levels for the two dimensions of policy measures and policy communication channels. Ordering effects are eliminated by warming up subjects in advance and using information disclosure. This paper uses the inferred attribute non-attendance method to process attributes ignored by the grain family farms and analyzes grain family farms’ preferences for different support policies with a mixed logit model and then uses a latent class model to analyze how the characteristics of grain family farms relate to different preference types. We find that grain family farms have a strong preference for agricultural subsidies, credit support, and technical support (the mean coefficient is greater than 0.8). Moreover, the preferences of grain family farms over the policy communication channel (the mean coefficient is greater than 0.5) cannot be ignored. Faced with the same policy attribute combination, grain family farms with high education levels, reasonable scales of operation, and good understanding of support policies are more likely to improve their profit margins. There are four preference types of grain family farms: finance preference (43.2%), knowledge and technology preference (28.5%), land transfer preference (15.4%), and policy information preference (12.9%).
A recepção do duty to mitigate the loss no direito brasileiro
Authors: Martins José Eduardo Figueiredo de Andrade
Published: January 2020

RESUMOEste artigo trata da recepção do duty to mitigate the loss no direito brasileiro, como uma solução para o ordenamento jurídico brasileiro do problema da inobservância da mitigação pelo credor em face de um inadimplemento, seja evitando ou minimizando o seu prejuízo quando este é considerado evitável. Desenvolve-se a hipótese de que é possível incorporar o duty to mitigate the loss como um desdobramento do princípio da boa-fé objetiva, como um delimitador do exercício de direitos subjetivos que se irradia por todo o ordenamento jurídico. Para tanto, é realizada uma revisão de suas origens no direito romano e no sistema de common law para que, a seguir, sejam estabelecidos os pressupostos de sua existência no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro, propondo ainda a criação de uma regra de aferição da razoabilidade. Ao final, são apontados os dispositivos legais já presentes no direito brasileiro que contêm a norma de mitigação.PALAVRAS-CHAVEDireito privado. Duty to mitigate the loss. Boa-fé. Responsabilidade contratual. ABSTRACTThis article regards the reception of duty to mitigate the loss in Brazilian law, as a solution to the Brazilian legal system of the problem of non-compliance with mitigation by the creditor in the face of breach, either avoiding or minimizing its damage when it is considered avoidable. It develops the hypothesis that it is possible to incorporate duty to mitigate the loss as an offshoot of the principle of objective good faith, as a delimiter of the exercise of subjective rights that radiates throughout the legal system. To this end, a review of its origins in Roman law and in the common law system is carried out so that, subsequently, the presuppositions of its existence in the Brazilian legal system are established, proposing the creation of a reasonability measurement rule. At the end, the legal provisions already present in Brazilian law that contain the mitigation rule are pointed out.KEYWORDSPrivate law. Duty to mitigate the loss. Good faith. Contractual liability.