bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Anti-inflammatory Effects of Lignan Glycosides from Cistanche tubulosa stems on LPS/IFN-γ-induced RAW264.7 Macrophage Cells via PI3K/ AKT Pathway
Authors: Guo Jinhan , Tang Shuming , Miao Yuyang , Ge Lanlan , Xu Junfa , Zeng Xiaobin
Published: November 2020

Background:

Cistanche tubulosa is a tonic in traditional Chinese medicines and has a
broad spectrum of biological activity, including anti-inflammatory. However, the anti-inflammatory
major constituents of C. tubulosa and their underlying mechanisms are still unknown.

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to explore the separation and structural characterization
of lignan glycosides from C. tubulosa (Schenk) Wight., their anti-inflammatory activity and the underlying
mechanism.

Materials and Methods:

Fractionation and isolation of the 85% EtOH extract of C. tubulosa
(Schenk) Wight. were carried out and the primary ingredients lignan glycosides (1-6) were structurally
characterized. CCK8 methods were used to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of lignan glycosides
(1-6). Effects of lignan glycosides (1-6) on NO production in LPS/IFN-γ-induced RAW264.7 macrophages
cells were measured using Griess reagent by reaction with nitrite. The mRNA expression
levels of iNOS, COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-a, and TGF-β treated RAW264.7 cells with various concentrations
(0, 25 and 50 μg/ml) of lignan glycosides (1, 4) in the presence of LPS (10 ng/ml) and
IFN-γ (20 ng/ml) for 24 h were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR. Also, the protein expressions of
iNOS, COX-2, PI3K, AKT, p-AKT and β -actin were determined using Western blot analysis. A
molecular docking study was performed to investigate the interactions between the lignan glycosides
and the PI3K using Autodock vina 1.1.2 package.

Results:

Six lignan glycosides (1-6) were isolated from stems of C. tubulosa. Among them, (+)-
pinoresinol-4-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (5) and eleutheroside E (6) were
firstly isolated from C. tubulosa. Of these lignans, 1 and 4 exhibited pronounced inhibitions on NO
production with the values of 33.63 ± 4.78 and 39.28 ± 5.52 % at 50 μg/ml, respectively. Additionally,
LPS/IFN-γ-induced expression of inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS), Cyclooxygenase-2
(COX-2), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and Tumor Necrosis Factor-a (TNF-a) was significantly
suppressed by pre-treatment of 1 and 4 in a dose-dependent manner. While 1 and 4 increased the
mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β). Furthermore, 1 and 4 significantly inhibited
the protein levels of PI3K and p-AKT in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusion:

Taken together, these results suggest that 1 and 4 play an important role in the attenuation
of LPS/IFN-γ-induced inflammatory responses in RAW264.7 cells and that the mechanisms involve
down-regulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.
The Anticancer Activity of Indazole Compounds: A Mini Review
Authors: Shang Congshan , Hou Yani , Meng Tingting , Shi Min , Cui Guoyan
Published: November 2020

The incidence and mortality of cancer continue to grow since the current medical treatments
often fail to produce a complete and durable tumor response and ultimately give rise to therapy
resistance and tumor relapse. Heterocycles with potential therapeutic values are of great pharmacological
importance, and among them, indazole moiety is a privileged structure in medicinal chemistry.
Indazole compounds possess potential anticancer activity, and indazole-based agents such as, axitinib,
lonidamine and pazopanib have already been employed for cancer therapy, demonstrating indazole
compounds as useful templates for the development of novel anticancer agents. The aim of this review
is to present the main aspects of exploring anticancer properties, such as the structural modifications,
the structure-activity relationship and mechanisms of action, making an effort to highlight the
importance and therapeutic potential of the indazole compounds in the present anticancer agents.
A Bottom-Up Proteomic Approach in Bone Marrow Plasma Cells of Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Patients
Authors: Ayhan Beycan , Turan Seçil Karahisar , Barkan N. Pınar , Dalva Klara , Beksaç Meral , Demiralp Duygu Özel
Published: November 2020

Background:

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by infiltration of bone marrow
(BM) with clonal malignant plasma cells. The percentage of plasma cells in the BM is required for
both diagnosis and prognosis.

Objective:

Intracellular protein screening and quantitative proteomic analysis were performed in
myeloma plasma cells with an aim to compare expressions between low (0-9%), intermediate
(10-20%) and high (>20%) plasma cell infiltration groups.

Methods:

BM aspiration samples were collected from newly diagnosed untreated patients with
MM. The samples were pooled into three groups according to the plasma cell content (PCC) in the
BM: group 1 (0-9%), group 2 (10-20%) and group 3 (>20%). Protein profiles were obtained and
proteins were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting analysis.

Results:

Differentially expressed proteins were detected between all groups. The identified proteins
are Endoplasmin, Calreticulin, Protein Disulfide-isomerase, Marginal zone B and B1 cell specific
protein/pERp1, Actin cytoplasmic 1, Myeloblastin, Thioredoxin domain-containing protein 5,
Ig kappa chain C region, Apoptosis regulator B-cell lymphoma 2 and Peroxiredoxin-4.

Conclusion:

Proteins involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, redox homeostasis and unfolded protein
disposal through endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation machinery have been found to
be correlated to PCC. Our results confirm earlier reports regarding the potential effects of identified
proteins in the major signaling pathways that lead to cancer. Moreover, this study reveals a
novel association between PCC levels and MM. It further highlights the roles of Marginal zone B
and B1 cell specific proteins in MM, which could be used as candidate biomarkers in future
studies.
A Giant Internal Iliac Artery Aneurysm with Arteriovenous Fistulization
Authors: Piljic Dragan , Hajdarevic Alen , Piljic Dilista , Behrem Adnan , Petricevic Mate , Samoukovic Gordan
Published: November 2020

Background:

Isolated iliac artery aneurysms are rare and occur predominantly in men at an older age. Such
aneurysms can rupture into an adjacent organ (such as the bowel, bladder or ureter) or into the adjacent common iliac
vein, resulting in an arteriovenous fistula. INTRODUCTION: Formation of an internal iliac arteriovenous fistula caused
by spontaneous rupture of an atherosclerotic iliac artery aneurysm wall is an exceedingly rare yet serious complication.

Methods / Results:

This article presents a case of an internal iliac arteriovenous fistula caused by rupture of an
atherosclerotic giant iliac artery aneurysm.

Conclusion:

Rapid diagnosis and meticulous surgical technique improve outcomes in patients with this rare vascular
complication.
Machine Learning Techniques used for the Histopathological Image Analysis of Oral Cancer-A Review
Authors: Panigrahi Santisudha , Swarnkar Tripti
Published: November 2020

Oral diseases are the 6th most revealed malignancy happening in head and neck regions found mainly in south Asian countries. It is the most common cancer with fourteen deaths in an hour on a yearly basis, as per the WHO oral cancer incidence in India. Due to the cost of tests, mistakes in the recognition procedure, and the enormous remaining task at hand of the cytopathologist, oral growths cannot be diagnosed promptly. This area is open to be looked into by biomedical analysts to identify it at an early stage. At present, with the advent of entire slide computerized scanners and tissue histopathology, there is a gigantic aggregation of advanced digital histopathological images, which has prompted the necessity for their analysis. A lot of computer aided analysis techniques have been developed by utilizing machine learning strategies for prediction and prognosis of cancer. In this review paper, first various steps of obtaining histopathological images, followed by the visualization and classification done by the doctors are discussed. As machine learning techniques are well known, in the second part of this review, the works done for histopathological image analysis as well as other oral datasets using these strategies for growth prognosis and anticipation are discussed. Comparing the pitfalls of machine learning and how it has overcome by deep learning mostly for image recognition tasks are also discussed subsequently. The third part of the manuscript describes how deep learning is beneficial and widely used in different cancer domains. Due to the remarkable growth of deep learning and wide applicability, it is best suited for the prognosis of oral disease. The aim of this review is to provide insight to the researchers opting to work for oral cancer by implementing deep learning and artificial neural networks.
Efficacy and Safety of Phyllanthus Amarus Cream Treatment in Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Pinkaew Decha , Kiattisin Kanokwan , Wonglangka Khanittha , Awoot Pisittawoot
Published: November 2020

Background:

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease and inflammatory pain which decreases daily activities.

Objective:

The aim of the present investigation was to examine skin permeation and skin irritation test of Phyllanthus Amarus (PA) cream including the effects of four weeks of treatment with PA cream in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.

Methods:

The permeation study of PA cream was determined by Franz diffusion cells using a stillborn piglet skin. The primary irritation test was evaluated in rabbits and human volunteers following the Draize test. The study included sixty respondents diagnosed with symptomatic knee OA (12 males, 48 females). All the respondents volunteered to participate and randomly allocated into 3 groups including (n =20 in each group), followed by the placebo group and Phyllanthus Amarus (PA) cream group and NSAIDs cream group. They used a cream twice per day for four weeks. The patients were tested on 3 occasions; before two weeks and four weeks for the treatment period. The respondents were completely assessed for pain and function assessment by the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities O-osteoarthritis Index questionnaire (WOMAC), respectively.

Results:

The PA cream showed good skin permeation after 10 hours. It had a high accumulative amount in the dermis and the receiving chamber more than the stratum corneum. Therefore, it could help to relieve pain and prolong the effect. The PA cream did not irritate the skin of rabbits and human volunteers. It is safe to be used in clinical treatment. The VAS and total WOMAC scores significantly decreased after 2 weeks (P < 0.001) and 4 weeks (P < 0.001) of intervention compared with before treatment in both the PA cream and NSAIDs groups in OA knee. However, the VAS and total WOMAC score of PA cream were not significantly compared with the NSAIDs groups.

Conclusion:

The Phyllanthus amarus cream is a new choice, and effective method for OA of the knee treatment. These data indicate that the treatment through Phyllanthus amarus cream improves pain relief and function.
Effects of Open (Racket) and Closed (Running) Skill Sports Practice on Children’s Attentional Performance
Authors: Gallotta Maria Chiara , Bonavolontà Valerio , Zimatore Giovanna , Iazzoni Sara , Guidetti Laura , Baldari Carlo
Published: November 2020

Aims:

The first aim of the study was to examine the attentional performance of children (8–13 years of age) who practiced two different sport disciplines: Open skill sport – racket and closed skill sport – running and also to investigate the acute effects of these two specific training sessions on children’s immediate and delayed attentional performance.

The second aim of the present study was to verify gender differences in attentional performance. Eighteen children+ (8 girls and 10 boys; age = 10.6 ± 1.5 yrs; height = 144.3 ± 12.2 cm; weight = 44.2 ± 12.5 kg; BMI = 20.8 ± 2.7 kg/m2) engaged in a racket sports and eighteen children (9 girls and 9 boys; age = 9.9 ± 1.2 yrs; height = 142.4 ± 9.5 cm; weight = 40.0 ± 8.6 kg; BMI = 19.6 ± 2.4 kg/m2) engaged in running were enrolled.

Methods:

Children’s training and experience with these activities averaged 2.3 (± 1.0) years. Children’s attentional capacity was measured before, immediately after and 50 minutes after each specific training session by the d2 test of attention.

This paper -and -pencil letter cancellation test evaluated concentration and sustained attention under stress induced by a fixed executing time. A 2 (Sport: open vs closed skill) x 2 (Gender: boys vs girls) x 3 (Time: pre vs 0’ post vs 50’ post) repeated measures ANOVA for time was used to compare the effect of an open skill session and a closed skill session on the individual attentional variables.

Results:

Children of open skill sport showed higher attentional scores (higher processing speed - TN, higher concentration performance - CP and lower percentage of errors - E%; p < 0.01), improved CP from pre to 0’ post intervention (p = 0.01) and maintained this improved performance at 50’ post intervention (50’ post vs pre; p < 0.01), and decreased E% from pre to 0’ post intervention (p = 0.01) and maintained this improvement at 50’ post intervention (50’ post vs pre; p < 0.001). Children of closed skill sport significantly decreased their CP from pre to 50’ post intervention (50’ post vs pre; p = 0.001 and 50’ post vs 0’ post; p < 0.0001) and worsened their E% across the time (50’ post vs pre; p = 0.001 and 50’ post vs 0’ post; p < 0.0001). Boys showed significantly higher TN values than girls only in closed skill sport (p = 0.023). Finally, all girls of both open and closed skill sports significantly improved their CP from pre to 0’ post intervention (p = 0.04).

Conclusion:

Results of the study showed that open skill sport practice and training session positively affects children’s attentional performance.
Utilization of Smartphone Depth Mapping Cameras for App-Based Grading of Facial Movement Disorders: Development and Feasibility Study
Authors: Taeger Johannes , Bischoff Stefanie , Hagen Rudolf , Rak Kristen
Published: November 2020

Background

For the classification of facial paresis, various systems of description and evaluation in the form of clinician-graded or software-based scoring systems are available. They serve the purpose of scientific and clinical assessment of the spontaneous course of the disease or monitoring therapeutic interventions. Nevertheless, none have been able to achieve universal acceptance in everyday clinical practice. Hence, a quick and precise tool for assessing the functional status of the facial nerve would be desirable. In this context, the possibilities that the TrueDepth camera of recent iPhone models offer have sparked our interest.

Objective

This paper describes the utilization of the iPhone’s TrueDepth camera via a specially developed app prototype for quick, objective, and reproducible quantification of facial asymmetries.

Methods

After conceptual and user interface design, a native app prototype for iOS was programmed that accesses and processes the data of the TrueDepth camera. Using a special algorithm, a new index for the grading of unilateral facial paresis ranging from 0% to 100% was developed. The algorithm was adapted to the well-established Stennert index by weighting the individual facial regions based on functional and cosmetic aspects. Test measurements with healthy subjects using the app were performed in order to prove the reliability of the system.

Results

After the development process, the app prototype had no runtime or buildtime errors and also worked under suboptimal conditions such as different measurement angles, so it met our criteria for a safe and reliable app. The newly defined index expresses the result of the measurements as a generally understandable percentage value for each half of the face. The measurements that correctly rated the facial expressions of healthy individuals as symmetrical in all cases were reproducible and showed no statistically significant intertest variability.

Conclusions

Based on the experience with the app prototype assessing healthy subjects, the use of the TrueDepth camera should have considerable potential for app-based grading of facial movement disorders. The app and its algorithm, which is based on theoretical considerations, should be evaluated in a prospective clinical study and correlated with common facial scores.
Deep Neural Network for Reducing the Screening Workload in Systematic Reviews for Clinical Guidelines: Algorithm Validation Study
Authors: Yamada Tomohide , Yoneoka Daisuke , Hiraike Yuta , Hino Kimihiro , Toyoshiba Hiroyoshi , Shishido Akira , Noma Hisashi , Shojima Nobuhiro , Yamauchi Toshimasa
Published: November 2020

Background

Performing systematic reviews is a time-consuming and resource-intensive process.

Objective

We investigated whether a machine learning system could perform systematic reviews more efficiently.

Methods

All systematic reviews and meta-analyses of interventional randomized controlled trials cited in recent clinical guidelines from the American Diabetes Association, American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association (2 guidelines), and American Stroke Association were assessed. After reproducing the primary screening data set according to the published search strategy of each, we extracted correct articles (those actually reviewed) and incorrect articles (those not reviewed) from the data set. These 2 sets of articles were used to train a neural network–based artificial intelligence engine (Concept Encoder, Fronteo Inc). The primary endpoint was work saved over sampling at 95% recall (WSS@95%).

Results

Among 145 candidate reviews of randomized controlled trials, 8 reviews fulfilled the inclusion criteria. For these 8 reviews, the machine learning system significantly reduced the literature screening workload by at least 6-fold versus that of manual screening based on WSS@95%. When machine learning was initiated using 2 correct articles that were randomly selected by a researcher, a 10-fold reduction in workload was achieved versus that of manual screening based on the WSS@95% value, with high sensitivity for eligible studies. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve increased dramatically every time the algorithm learned a correct article.

Conclusions

Concept Encoder achieved a 10-fold reduction of the screening workload for systematic review after learning from 2 randomly selected studies on the target topic. However, few meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials were included. Concept Encoder could facilitate the acquisition of evidence for clinical guidelines.
Using Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to Access Google Data and Gain Insights Into Searches on Birth Control in Louisiana and Mississippi, 2014-2018: Infoveillance Study (Preprint)
Authors: Prata Ndola , Weidert Karen , Zepecki Anne , Yon Elina , Pleasants Elizabeth , Sams-Abiodun Petrice , Guendelman Sylvia
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

It is now common to search for health information online. A 2013 Pew Research Center survey found that 77% of online health seekers began their query at a search engine. The widespread use of online health information seeking also applies to women’s reproductive health. Despite online interest in birth control, not much is known about related interests and concerns reflected in the search terms in the United States.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we identify the top search terms on Google related to birth control in Louisiana and Mississippi and compare those results to the broader United States, examining how Google searches on birth control have evolved over time and identifying regional variation within states.

METHODS

We accessed search data on birth control from 2014-2018 from 2 Google application programming interfaces (APIs), Google Trends and Google Health Trends. We selected Google as it is the most commonly used search engine. We focused our analysis on data from 2017 and compared with 2018 data as appropriate. To assess trends, we analyzed data from 2014 through 2018. To compare the relative search frequencies of the top queries across Louisiana, Mississippi, and the United States, we used the Google Health Trends API. Relative search volume by designated marketing area (DMA) gave us the rankings of search volume for each birth control method in each DMA as compared to one another.

RESULTS

Results showed that when people searched for “birth control” in Louisiana and the broader United States, they were searching for information on a diverse spectrum of methods. This differs from Mississippi, where the data indicated people were mainly searching for information related to birth control pills. Across all locations, searches for birth control pills were significantly higher than any other queries related to birth control in the United States, Louisiana, and Mississippi, and this trend remained constant from 2014 to 2018. Regional level analysis showed variations in search traffic for birth control across each state.

CONCLUSIONS

The internet is a growing source of health information for many users, including information on birth control. Understanding popular Google search queries on birth control can inform in-person discussions initiated by family planning practitioners and broader birth control messaging campaigns.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/16543
Augmenting the Accuracy of Trainee Doctors in Diagnosing Skin Neoplasms in a Real-World Setting: A Prospective Before and After Study (Preprint)
Authors: Han Seung Seog , Kim Young Jae , Won Chong Hyun , Lee Mi Woo , Shin Jung-Won , Huh Chang-Hun , Na Jung-Im , Chang Sung Eun
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Although deep neural networks have shown promising results in diagnosing skin cancer, a prospective evaluation in a real-world setting could confirm these results.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether an algorithm (http://b2019.modelderm.com) could improve the accuracy of nondermatologists in diagnosing skin neoplasms.

METHODS

A total of 285 cases (random series) with skin neoplasms suspected by either physicians or patients were recruited in two tertiary care centers located in South Korea. An artificial intelligence (AI) group (144 cases, mean [SD] age, 57.0 [17.7] years; 62 [43.1%] men) was diagnosed via routine examination with capturing photographs and assisted by the algorithm, whereas the control group (141 cases, mean [SD] age, 61.0 [15.3] years; 52 [36.9%] men) was diagnosed only via routine examination with a photographic review. The accuracy of the nondermatologists before and after the interventions was compared.

RESULTS

Among the AI group, the accuracy of the first impression (Top-1 accuracy; 58.3%) after the assistance was higher than that before the assistance (46.5%, P = 0.0081). The number of differential diagnoses of the participants increased from 1.9 ± 0.5 to 2.2 ± 0.6 after the assistance (P < 0.0001). In the control group, the difference in the Top-1 accuracy between before and after reviewing photographs was not significant (before, 46.1%; after, 51.8%; P = 0.1867) and the number of differential diagnoses was not also significantly increased (before, 2.0 ± 0.4; after, 2.1 ± 0.5; P = 0.5653).

CONCLUSIONS

In real-world settings, artificial intelligence augmented the diagnostic accuracy of trainee doctors. The limitation of this study is that the algorithm was tested only for Asians recruited from a single region. Additional international randomized controlled trials involving various ethnicities are required.
Active Annotation in Evaluating the Credibility of Web-Based Medical Information: Guidelines for Creating Training Data Sets for Machine Learning (Preprint)
Authors: Nabożny Aleksandra , Balcerzak Bartłomiej , Wierzbicki Adam , Morzy Mikołaj , Chlabicz Małgorzata
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

The spread of false medical information on the web is rapidly accelerating. Establishing the credibility of web-based medical information has become a pressing necessity. Machine learning offers a solution that, when properly deployed, can be an effective tool in fighting medical misinformation on the web.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to present a comprehensive framework for designing and curating machine learning training data sets for web-based medical information credibility assessment. We show how to construct the annotation process. Our main objective is to support researchers from the medical and computer science communities. We offer guidelines on the preparation of data sets for machine learning models that can fight medical misinformation.

METHODS

We begin by providing the annotation protocol for medical experts involved in medical sentence credibility evaluation. The protocol is based on a qualitative study of our experimental data. To address the problem of insufficient initial labels, we propose a preprocessing pipeline for the batch of sentences to be assessed. It consists of representation learning, clustering, and reranking. We call this process active annotation.

RESULTS

We collected more than 10,000 annotations of statements related to selected medical subjects (psychiatry, cholesterol, autism, antibiotics, vaccines, steroids, birth methods, and food allergy testing) for less than US $7000 by employing 9 highly qualified annotators (certified medical professionals), and we release this data set to the general public. We developed an active annotation framework for more efficient annotation of noncredible medical statements. The application of qualitative analysis resulted in a better annotation protocol for our future efforts in data set creation.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the qualitative analysis support our claims of the efficacy of the presented method.
Dental care during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Arabic tweets analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Al-Khalifa Khalifa S. , AlSheikh Rasha , Alsahafi Yasser A. , Alkhalifa Atheer , Sadaf Shazia , Muazen Yasmeen Y. , Al-Moumen Saud A. , Yermal Ashwin S
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Twitter is a powerful platform which could be used to improvise the demand and supply of dental services during a pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the nature and dissemination of COVID-19 information related to dentistry on Twitter platform Arabic database.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty independent searches with a combination of keywords for both COVID-19 and dentistry from a preselected Arabic keyword were carried out for the period from the 2nd of March to the 6th of July 2020. Tweets were filtered to remove duplicate and unrelated tweets. The suitable tweets were 1,150. After calibration, two examiners coded the tweets following two main themes: COVID-19 and oral health-related information. Tweets were then compared with COVID-19 daily events in the Arab counties as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Descriptive analysis was performed to present the overview of the findings using Microsoft Excel.

RESULTS

There was no obvious association between time distribution of the tweets to the distribution of new COVID-19 cases and deaths during the period from March 2, 2020 to July 6, 2020. The most retweeted information was the help with urgent consultation or emergency dental treatment during COVID-19 tweeted by a dentist. There were 673 retweets and 1116 likes of this tweet. The most common tweets related to oral health was needs of dental treatment (n=462, 39.5%) of which, toothaches or wisdom tooth problems constituted 48% of the related tweets.

CONCLUSIONS

Twitter is a platform reflecting the public interest and concerns, based on the finding tweets tend to increase with major events and news and thus help navigate the proper action needed to address public concern.
Multi-Autoantibody Signature and Clinical Outcome in Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Ghiggeri Gian Marco , Seitz-Polski Barbara , Justino Joana , Zaghrini Christelle , Payré Christine , Brglez Vesna , Dolla Guillaume , Sinico Alberto , Scolari Francesco , Vaglio Augusto , Prunotto Marco , Candiano Giovanni , Radice Antonella , Bruschi Maurizio , Lambeau Gérard ,   on behalf of The Italian Study Group for Membranous Nephropathy
Published: November 2020

Background and objectives

Patients with membranous nephropathy can have circulating autoantibodies against membrane-bound (phospholipase A2 receptor 1 [PLA2R1] and thrombospondin type-1 domain containing 7A [THSD7A]) and intracellular (aldose reductase, SOD2, and α-enolase) podocyte autoantigens. We studied their combined association with clinical outcomes.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Serum levels of anti-PLA2R1, anti-THSD7A, anti-aldose reductase, anti-SOD2, and anti−α-enolase autoantibodies were determined in 285 patients at diagnosis and during follow-up using standardized and homemade assays. An eGFR>60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 and remission of proteinuria (<0.3/<3.5 g per d) after 12 months were the outcomes of interest.

Results

At diagnosis, 182 (64%), eight (3%), and 95 (33%) patients were anti-PLA2R1+, anti-THSD7A+, and double negative, respectively. The prevalence of a detectable antibody to at least one intracellular antigen was similarly distributed in patients who were anti-PLA2R1+ (n=118, 65%) and double negative (n=64, 67%). Positivity for anti-PLA2R1, anti-SOD2, and anti–α-enolase antibodies and higher titers at diagnosis were associated with poor clinical outcome independently to each other. Combined positivity for anti-PLA2R1, anti-SOD2, and anti−α-enolase was associated with highest risk of poor outcome (odds ratio, 5.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.2 to 24; P=0.01). In Kaplan–Meier analysis, patients who were anti-PLA2R1+/anti-SOD2+ or anti-PLA2R1+/anti−α-enolase+ had lower eGFR at 12 months compared with patients who were anti-PLA2R1+/anti-SOD2− or anti−α-enolase−. Predictive tests (net reclassification index and area under the curve–receiver-operating characteristic analysis) showed that combined assessment of antibodies improved classification of outcome in 22%–34% of cases for partial remission of proteinuria and maintenance of normal eGFR. For patients with nephrotic syndrome at diagnosis, anti-SOD2 positivity and high anti-PLA2R1 titer were associated with a lack of complete remission. Patients who were anti-PLA2R1−/anti-intracellular antigens− had the lowest proteinuria and the highest eGFR at diagnosis and the lowest risk of lower eGFR at 12 months. Epitope spreading was present in 81% of patients who were anti-PLA2R1+ and was associated with increased positivity for intracellular antigens and poor eGFR at diagnosis and 12 months.

Conclusions

Combined serological analysis of autoantibodies targeting membrane-bound and intracellular autoantigens identifies patients with poor clinical outcomes.
Recommended Optimal Land Utilization and Farming Techniques (ROLUFS) in Pendurthi Mandal, A Geospatial Approach, Vishakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA
Authors: Chirala Usha , Pedada Bhavana
Published: November 2020

Integrating land and water resources is a major key in sustainable development. Managing agricultural land is a concerning task keeping the ever increasing population in mind as agriculture utilizes largest amount of water in the world. A case study of Pendurthi mandal, Vishakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh, India has been taken up for resource appraisal. Basic integration of land and water resources (BILWRUS), generation of thematic maps using remote sensing in conjunction with Geographical Information System, and ground laboratory techniques has been the major task. The proposed landuse has been assigned to all the 23 villages of the study area, using recommended optimal land utilization and farming techniques (ROLUFS) as per the norms set by National water Development Program for Rainfed areas (NWDPRA).
Asociacionismo y participación ciudadana en Ciudad Juárez
Authors: De la Cruz Hermida Gisselle , Boscán Carrasquero Guillermo E. , Valenzuela Rafael Enrique
Published: November 2020

El artículo indaga sobre los incentivos del asociacionismo como forma de participación política a escala local. El objetivo es analizar los datos de una encuesta aplicada a los miembros de asociaciones civiles en el municipio de Ciudad Juárez. El análisis se efectúa mediante la técnica de correspondencias múltiples, con el fin de discriminar y evaluar la proximidad de variables para construir categorías con mayor relevancia explicativa. Los resultados advierten que las variables que agrupan la participación ciudadana y la eficacia externa figuran como los incentivos del asociacionismo. La interpretación de este resultado permite concluir que el principal incentivo de los individuos para asociarse es la participación ciudadana. La acción asociativa incrementa el sentido de eficacia externa, ya que los individuos perciben que esta forma de participación, al realizarse de forma colectiva y no individual, es más eficaz y es tomada en cuenta por el gobierno. En futuras investigaciones se explorarán los distintos tipos de incentivos de activismo político dentro del asociacionismo.
Ensaios clínicos com medicamentos no Brasil: uma análise das principais características
Authors:   Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Carvalho Rocha Alves da Silva Juliana , Santos Santana Rafael ,   Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Menezes Farinasso Cecília ,   Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Lane Mendonça Silva Dayde ,   Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brasil, Carneiro Capucho Helaine ,   Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brasil / Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF, Brasil
Published: November 2020

Introdução: Os resultados de ensaios clínicos são utilizados pelas agências regulatórias de todo o mundo para fins de registro e comercialização de medicamentos. A Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa) é a responsável pelos registros de tecnologias em saúde no Brasil e regras para análises técnicas de ensaios clínicos. A Anvisa vem atuando para atualizar seu arcabouço regulatório a respeito de ensaios clínicos com medicamentos no país, para reduzir tempo de análise e harmonizar conforme regras internacionais. Objetivo: Caracterizar os ensaios clínicos de fase III, com medicamentos, realizados no Brasil a partir da publicação da RDC n° 9, de 20 de fevereiro de 2015, da Anvisa. Método: Estudo exploratório e descritivo realizado em três etapas: (1) análise quantitativa pré e pós RDC n° 9/2015; (2) análise da população participante de ensaio clínico que embasou registros de medicamentos; (3) caracterização dos ensaios clínicos realizados no Brasil. Resultados: Houve redução em 20% de ensaios clínicos realizados no Brasil quando se compara o período anterior e posterior à publicação da RDC n° 9/2015 da Anvisa; apenas 33% dos ensaios clínicos que embasaram registros de medicamentos no país foram realizados com população brasileira; os medicamentos sintéticos e biológicos somam 96% da intervenção estudada nos ensaios clínicos; placebo ainda é muito utilizado como comparador (37%); a indústria farmacêutica é majoritariamente o patrocinador dos ensaios clínicos (86%). Conclusões: Diante deste cenário, é imperativo que se fortaleçam as ações de farmacovigilância no Brasil, a fim de conhecer os perfis de efetividade e segurança dos medicamentos após exposição da população brasileira.
Principais irregularidades em estabelecimentos sujeitos a controle sanitário
Authors:   Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de Minas Gerais. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil, Fernandes César Daniela , Maria de Faria e Silva Patrícia ,   Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de Minas Gerais. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil, da Costa Figueiredo Saraid ,   Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de Minas Gerais. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil, Curzio Laguardia Filipe ,   Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de Minas Gerais. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
Published: November 2020

Introdução: A fiscalização sanitária verifica o cumprimento de normas e regulamentos técnicos visando segurança e qualidade. A Vigilância Sanitária de Minas Gerais possui um sistema de notificação de situações de risco sanitário que possibilita a coleta sistemática e análise de dados relativos às inspeções sanitárias. Esses dados são usados para identificação do risco sanitário no território e consequente definição de ações. Objetivo: Determinar as irregularidades mais frequentemente encontradas durante as inspeções sanitárias realizadas em Minas Gerais. Método: Estudo transversal das irregularidades sanitárias declaradas por fiscais sanitários de Minas Gerais nos formulários relativos às inspeções, inseridas na Planilha de Notificações de Riscos e Situações de Riscos 2019. As frequências encontradas de cada tipo de irregularidade foram determinadas e ordenadas. Resultados: As irregularidades mais comumente encontradas, decrescentemente, são: problemas de Documentação/Garantia da qualidade; infraestrutura inadequada; irregularidades de Organização e Higiene; irregularidades em equipamentos, incluindo manutenção preventiva e calibração; falhas na qualidade dos produtos; recursos humanos; e problemas de gerenciamento de resíduos. Todas essas irregularidades têm graus variados de potencial risco sanitário, mesmo que estejam, muitas vezes, sujeitas às mesmas medidas, educativas e/ou coercitivas, por parte da Vigilância Sanitária. Conclusões: O conhecimento das principais irregularidades encontradas nos estabelecimentos inspecionados é uma informação de alta relevância para a fiscalização sanitária para um diagnóstico territorial, otimização do processo de trabalho e para orientar as ações de educação e e instrução, de forma a permitir uma efetiva intervenção dos serviços nesses problemas.
Determination of the compression test method for high temperature-resistant carbon fiber reinforced plastics
Authors: Voinov S. I. , Zelenina I. V. , Valueva M. I. , Gulyaev I. N.
Published: November 2020

The article presents the results of studies of carbon fiber reinforced plastic VS-51/VTkU-2.200. The influence of the thickness of the specimens and the size of working gage on the compressive strength of carbon fiber reinforced plastic specimens was evaluated; tests were done in accordance with different standards. The results of compression strength tests at high temperature (300–320°С) are given: carbon fiber reinforced plastic VS-51/VTkU-2.200 shows high heat resistance and keeps compressive strength at high temperature tests. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic VS-51/VTkU-2.200 is of increasing interest for application in aircraft structural parts requiring high temperature resistance.
Deciphering the Secrets of UFO Field-Propulsion Technology
Authors: Bhattacharjee Deep
Published: November 2020

Detailed analysis of the UFO structure along with Field Propulsion has
been provided in this paper subject to Anti-Gravity,
Electrohydrodynamics and warp drive with superluminal speeds violating
General, Special Relativity and Newton’s laws of motion.
Calculation of 13C NMR Spectra of Pentanol and its Esters as an Example of Effective Application of Additivity of Chemical Shift Increments for Attributed Signals in Aliphatic Compounds Spectra
Authors:   Ukrainian Academy of Printing, Lviv, Ukraine, Mizyuk Volodymyr , Shibanov Volodymyr ,   Ukrainian Academy of Printing, Lviv, Ukraine
Published: November 2020

Application of increments additivity allows to attribute closed by value signals in the area of 28 ppm in NMR 13C spectra of 1-pentanol (I) and its esters (II, III) for C2 and C3 atoms during calculations of δС2 and δС3 chemical shifts. In case of pentylformate (IIa) on the basis of calculated data it has been suggested to interchange attributions made by authors [2].
Nonlinear Optical Effects in Polymeric Azoesters
Authors:   Kyiv National Taras Shevchenko University 64, Volodymyrska str., 01033 Kyiv, Ukraine, Nadtoka Oksana
Published: November 2020

The new photochromic polymers based on methacrylic azoesters were synthesized. The azobenzene side chains of obtained polymers contain different groups of both acceptor and donor nature as well as flexible alkyl spacer. The third order nonlinear optical susceptibilities (3) of the studied solutions were measured by degenerating four wave mixing (DFWM) method. As a result, the enhancement of the molecular conjugation and the high NLO chromophore concentration in the molecular chain contribute much to heightening the third-order NLO effect. The electronic effect of the substituent on the azobenzol group and the push–pull electronic structure contributes much to enhancing the NLO property
Water Absorption Behavior and Impact Strength of PVC/Wood Flour Composites
Authors:   Instituto de Macromoleculas Professora Eloisa Mano, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, CT, bloco J, Cidade Universitaria, Ilha do Fundao, CP 68525, CEP 21945-970, Rio de Janeiro, R.J., Brazil, Iulianelli Gisele , Tavares Maria Bruno ,   Instituto de Macromoleculas Professora Eloisa Mano, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, CT, bloco J, Cidade Universitaria, Ilha do Fundao, CP 68525, CEP 21945-970, Rio de Janeiro, R.J., Brazil, Luetkmeyer Leandro ,   Instituto de Macromoleculas Professora Eloisa Mano, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, CT, bloco J, Cidade Universitaria, Ilha do Fundao, CP 68525, CEP 21945-970, Rio de Janeiro, R.J., Brazil
Published: November 2020

PVC/wood flour composites were prepared by compression molding using sapwood and heartwood from Angelin Pedra as filler. The composites specimens were subjected to water immersion and impact tests. The results showed that the water absorption of all composites increased slightly with increasing immersion time and wood content. However, the values were considerably low compared with control sample, common solid woods and wood plastic composites reported in literature. PVC/sapwood composites showed slightly higher values for moisture absorption ability due to the difference in chemical constituents’ ratio. PVC compound and PVC/sapwood composite containing 10 phr of wood flour exhibited maximum water absorption in 63 days and it corresponded to 0.25 % and 0.58 % weight gain, respectively. In relation to impact test, the results indicated that impact property was affected by wood content and less by wood type. Composites containing 10 phr of wood content showed greater impact strength (decreased by around 60 %) than those prepared with 25 and 40 phr of wood flour content (decreased approximately by 75 %). In general the composites prepared with 10 phr of wood flour content exhibited a better performance in both parameters measured in this study.
Obtaining magnesium phosphate from liquids magnesium-containing waste of potassium production
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Blazhivskyi K. І. , Maksymovych I. Ye. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Partyka T. V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Bukliv R. L. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Znak Z. O. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: November 2020

Technological aspects of a new method of obtaining magnesium phosphate based on the interaction of magnesium chloride from liquid waste from the processing of potassium ores and sodium phosphate have been studied. The influence of precipitation conditions of magnesium phosphate crystal hydrate, washing of the obtained precipitate and its drying on the yield and product quality was studied. Rational technological parameters of realization of the main stages are chosen. The developed technological process, in comparison with the known ones, allows to simplify the technology, reduce the cost of production, balance the composition of liquid waste for further processing into potassium-magnesium fertilizers.
Kinetics of aldol condensation of acetic acid with formaldehyde on B–P–V–W–OX/SiO2 catalyst
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Pavliuk N. S. , Ivasiv V. V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Orobchuk O. M. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Shevchenko D. S. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Nebesnyi R. V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: November 2020

New catalysts B–P–V–W–Ox/SiO2 of gas-phase condensation of acetic acid from formaldehyde to acrylic acid on an industrial carrier of stable chemical composition (colloidal silicon oxide, Aerosil A-200) were synthesized. It is shown that the hydrothermal treatment of the carrier allows to increase the activity and selectivity of the catalyst in the reactions of aldol condensation of acetic acid with formaldehyde. It was found that the developed catalyst is effective in the condensation reaction of acetic acid with formaldehyde, which allows to obtain acrylic acid with a yield of 68.7% and a selectivity of 94.1%. The kinetic regularities of the reaction on this catalyst are established. According to the proposed kinetic equations, kinetic parameters are calculated that describe the condensation reaction of acetic acid with formaldehyde.
Predicted screening of biological activity of thiosulphonate pyrimidine derivatives
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Monka N. Ya. , Stadnytska N. Ye. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Charka R. V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Roman Y. V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Shiyan G. B. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Khomitska G. M. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Lubenets V. I. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: November 2020

Pyrimidine and its derivatives are important objects for chemical synthesis and development of new drugs based on them. There is a practical application of a number of substances with a pyrimidine heterocycle in medical practice. We performed a predicted screening of biological activity, cytotoxicity and toxicity in rats of some synthesized pyrimidine thiosulfonates using appropriate on-line programs. It was found that they are low-toxic substances with a wide range of biological action and a high value of probable activity, which indicates the feasibility of continuing experimental studies of their biological action, in particular anticancer. S- (4,6- dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl) benzenesulfonothioate deserves special attention for in-depth study.
Synthesis and predicted antiviral activity of 4-substituted 9,10-anthraquinone derivatives
Authors:   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Taras T. M. , Luchkevich E. R. ,   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Shupeniuk V. I. ,   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Sabadakh O. P. ,   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Bolibrukh L. D. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Zhurakhivska L.R. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: November 2020

Antiviral activity was predicted by using data from program PASS Online for synthesized compounds against picornavirus, the influenza and the rhinovirus, what fits in today's strategy of creating of the anthraquinone-based anticancer drugs and with antibacterial effect. There are several current methods to synthesize 9,10-anthraquinone, which contain the biogenic amines in the 4-position. Antiviral activity was predicted by using program AVCpred in a percentage of inhibition against deadly viruses like Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Human herpesvirus (HHV)
Apocalypse or Renascence. Vasily Rozanov and Ivan Ilyin: an Attempt of Comparison
Authors: Vakulinskaya Alexandra I.
Published: November 2020

In this preamble to the texts from I. A. Ilyin’s archive, an attempt is made to compare two Russian thinkers who were so unlike. Besides showing their striking differences, the article also demonstrates similarities of the thinkers’ ideas. The author analyzes the attitude of the philosophers to the revolutions of February and October of 1917. It is concluded that V.V. Rozanov considered the revolutionary events to be a kind of the Apocalypse realization while I.A. Ilyin saw in the revolution the potential for the rebirth and renewal of Russia.