bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syndromic Management of Female Sexually Transmitted Infections at Primary Care Level in Tunisia (Monastir 2007-2017)
Authors: Dhouib wafa , Zemni Imen , Kacem Meriem , Bennasrallah Cyrine , Fredj Manel Ben , Abroug Hela , Grira Samia , Mastouri Maha , Sr Asma Belguith
Published: August 2020

Background: In the world as in North Africa,Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a public health problem especiallyfor reproductive-age women.Since the quantification of the prevalence of STIs is important for the planning of interventions and the promotion of resources, it is necessary to have current data to evaluate the situation in the Maghreb and to give the answer as to the possibility of reaching the desired WHO goal of ending STIs epidemics as a public health concerns by 2030.The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and trend of STIs during 11 yearsin Tunisia (2007-17).Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study including all women with STIs diagnosed with the syndromic approach in all basic health care centers of the Governorate of Monastir (Tunisia) from 2007 to 2017.Syndromes included, Pelvic Pain (PP),Vaginal Discharge (VD)and Genital Ulceration (GU). Results: We analyzed 40388 cases of genital infection with a crude prevalence rate and age standardized prevalence rate of13.93/ 1000 inh and 72.38/ 1000 respectively.The prevalence rate was relatively high and showed a positive trend over 11 years for all age groups and syndromes. VD was the most common syndrome with a CPR of 11.7/1000. For all syndromes, women of childbearing age(20 to 39 years) were the most affected age group(p <0.05). Conclusion:Our results were consistent with the global evidence, suggesting a focus on primary prevention reinforcement and STIs surveillance system improving in North Africa countries to achieve the World health organization goalof ending STIs epidemics by 2030.
Performance of the lower limb musculoskeletal system in patients with different degree of diabetic ulcer risk
Authors: Bursać Snježana Novaković , Talić Goran , Tomić Nataša , Jandrić Slavica
Published: August 2020

BackgroundThe objective of the study was to determine the correlation between the biomechanical parameters: ankle and foot muscle strength, range of motion (ROM) at ankle joint (AJ), subtalar joint (SJ) and first metatarsophalangeal joint (I MTP) in patients with different diabetic ulcer risk assessed by IWGDF 2019 Guidance risk stratification system.MethodA cross-sectional study included 100 diabetic patients. The patients were classified into 4 risk categories of development of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) applying IWGDF Guidelines 2019 stratification risk system. The function of ten foot and ankle muscles was evaluated by manual muscle testing and application of the Michigan Diabetic Neuropathy Score (MDNS) system. The range of motion ROM at the ankle, subtalar and first metatarsophalangeal joint was measured with a goniometer. The risk assessment was done applying IWGDF Guidelines 2019 stratification risk system. To test the statistical significance the ANOVA test was applied.ResultsAverage muscle strength in specified categories was category 0:9.2; category 1:13.9; category 2:13.3; category 3:15.2. Average ROM at AJ in specified categories was: category 0:49.3°; category 1:48.8°; category 2:45.5°; category 3:44.6°. Average ROM at SJ in specified categories was: category 0:37.8°; category 1:31.3°; category 2:35°; category 3:28.7°. Average ROM at I MTP in specified categories was: category 0:78.6°; category 1:74.4°; category 2:65.5°; category 3:57.9°. ConclusionThe risk for DFU significantly correlates with foot muscle strength and ROM at SJ, and I MTP, but does not with ROM at AJ.
Development and Evaluation of a New Assessment Tool for Myelopathy Hand
Authors: Su Xin-Jin , Lv Zhen-Dong , Zhang Wei-Zhong , Hou Cang-Long , Lao Li-Feng , Li Quan , Hong-Xing Shen
Published: August 2020

Background: Impairment of hand function in myelopathy patients is commonly observed. However, no objective and effective evaluation method has been widely accepted in clinical practice. The study aimed to evaluate the validity, reliability and effectiveness of a new assessment tool, Myelopathy-hand Functional Evaluation System (MFES), in evaluating the hand dysfunction of myelopathy-hand in the 10-s hand grip-and-release test (10s G-R test).Methods: MFES mainly consists of a pair of wise-gloves and a computer with software. All included patients received optimal surgery treatment. The Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores of each patient were marked and the hand function was evaluated using MFES before, and 6 months after surgery. All patients were asked to perform the 10s G-R test and the hand movements were simulated and converted into waveforms by MFES. The waveform parameters were measured and analyzed. The validity and test-retest reliability were assessed.Results: The Bland-Altman showed significant agreement with a low bias and narrow limits of agreement. The test-retest reliability was high with a significant value (r=0.911). The JOA scores and the number of G-R cycles significantly increased after surgery. Correspondingly, the waveforms of ulnar three fingers were significantly higher and narrower, along with the significantly declined average time per cycle in postoperative. The number of the first five-second segment (N1) was significantly higher than the second-five segment (N2) in postoperative, indicating the recovery of spinal cord function after surgery. The preoperative number of cycles was positively correlated with the improvement rates of JOA scores. And the increased number of cycles was significantly correlated with the improvement rates of JOA scores.Conclusion: MFES is a reliable and valid assessment tool for myelopathy hand, which can detect small changes of neurological function after decompression surgery.
The Differences of the Psychological Status of the Public Between Hubei Provinces and Other Provinces After the COVID-19 Outbreak: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Du Na , Ouyang Yingjie , Li Yunge , He Manxi , Geng Ting , Li Chunya , Hu Yalan , Liu Fengyu , Zhang Li , Zhu Min , Luo Lishi , Huang Juan , Wang Hongming , Chen Yong , Yue Yuchuan , Xiong Maoxiang , Pan Keliang
Published: August 2020

Background: Assessing the psychological status of public from different areas after the COVID-19 outbreak in China and analyzing the risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey via online questionnaires was conducted. Occurrence of pressure, anxiety and depression were measured with Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Generalized Anxiety Scale (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), respectively. Results: The study included 3300 participants, with 1644 from Hubei and 1656 from outside Hubei. The rates of anxiety and depression among subjects from Hubei were 59.6% and 52.3%, while the corresponding rates for those outside Hubei were 44.4% and 46.6%. The scores of PSS, GAD-7, and PHQ-9 in Hubei were significantly higher than those in other areas (t = 3.823, 5.860, 2.211; P < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that among the participants from Hubei, the higher the educational background, the history of psychosis, the worse their physical health, the COVID-19 infected, isolated, and their families infected with the COVID-19, their mental health was relatively poor. In the participants outside Hubei, the more unstable their marriage status, the worse their physical health, isolated, and their families infected with the COVID-19, the worse their mental health level. Conclusions: The stress, anxiety, and depression of the public in Hubei are more prominent and the factors that affect their mental health are more complex. When conducting psychological intervention on the general public, we still need to formulate special intervention plans according to the different characteristics of different groups of people to provide them with appropriate crisis intervention services.
Investigating Teachers’ Self-efficacy, Instructional Practice and Self-reflective Practice: The Case of Tertiary Level Teachers
Authors: Khanshan Shabnam Kurosh , Yousefi Mohammad Hossein , Kashef Seyyed Hossein
Published: August 2020

The present study was an attempt to shed light on university level teachers’ self-efficacy perceptions in relation to their reflective practice and instructional practice. For this purpose, 70 teachers from both public and private universities in Iran took part in this survey research. Participants were asked to fill out three Likert-type questionnaires: Teacher Efficacy Scale, The Instructional Practices Survey, and Teacher Reflection Questionnaire. The collected data were quantitatively analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results of Pearson correlation coefficients revealed that although teachers’ self-efficacy perceptions were significantly correlated with both their instructional practice and reflective practice, the former established a relationship with a higher effect size than the latter. Implications of the results with respect to teacher development are presented and directions for further research are offered.
Atezolizumab and Granzyme B as Immunotoxin Against PD-L1 Antigen; An Insilico Study
Authors: Sefid Fateme , Payandeh Zahra , Baradaran Behzad , Nabbi Mohsen , Islami Maryam , Darvish Maryam , Kalantar Seyed Mehdi
Published: August 2020

Background

Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), also called B7 homolog 1 (B7-H1), is a human protein playing an important biomarker role in highly proliferation cells (like cancer cells) which is encoded by the CD274 gene. The interaction between PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibits T cell growth and cytokine secretion. Therefore, PD-L1 negatively regulates immune responses and permits tumor cells to evade immune surveillance. Thus, PD-L1 seems to be a suitable target for designing the immune-therapeutics.
Results

The predicted structure of this protein indicated that the chains were linked by (Gly4Ser)3 linker. In that line, using different simulation software, the structure of Granzyme B (GrB), a serine protease exists in cytotoxic lymphocytes granules as an apoptosis mediator, was attached to its specific antibody structure (Atezolizumab) via an adaptor sequence. Evaluation of accuracy, energy minimization and characterization of biological properties of the final processed structure were done. Our computational outcomes showed that the method of employed structure prediction has been successfully managed to design the immunotoxin structure.
Conclusion

It is necessary to mention that the precise and accurate design of the immune-therapeutic agents against cancer cells, can be confirmed by employed in-silico approach. So, using this method, we have designed a capable immunotoxin targeting the PD-L1 in an accurate orientation and cause the cancer cell destruction by its toxin domain.
SNF-NN: Computational Method To Predict Drug-Disease Interactions Using Similarity Network Fusion and Neural Networks
Authors: Jarada Tamer , Rokne Jon , Alhajj Reda
Published: August 2020

Drug repositioning is an emerging approach in pharmaceutical research for identifying novel therapeutic potentials for approved drugs and discover therapies for untreated diseases. Due to its time and cost efficiency, drug repositioning plays an instrumental role in optimizing the drug development process compared to the traditional de novo drug discovery process. Advances in the genomics, together with the enormous growth of large-scale publicly available data and the availability of high-performance computing capabilities, have further motivated the development of computational drug repositioning approaches. More recently, the rise of machine learning techniques, together with the availability of powerful computers, has made the area of computational drug repositioning an area of intense activities. In this study, a novel framework SNF-NN based on deep learning is presented, where novel drugdisease interactions are predicted using drug-related similarity information, disease-related similarity information, and known drug-disease interactions. Heterogeneous similarity information related to drugs and disease is fed to the proposed framework in order to predict novel drug-disease interactions. SNF-NN uses similarity selection, similarity network fusion, and a highly tuned novel neural network model to predict new drug-disease interactions. The robustness of SNF-NN is evaluated by comparing its performance with nine baseline machine learning methods. The proposed framework outperforms all baseline methods (AUC − ROC = 0.867, and AUC − P R=0.876) using stratified 10-fold cross-validation. To further demonstrate the reliability and robustness of SNF-NN, two datasets are used to fairly validate the proposed framework’s performance against seven recent state-of-the-art methods for drug-disease interaction prediction. SNF-NN achieves remarkable performance in stratified 10-fold cross-validation with AUC − ROC ranging from 0.879 to 0.931 and AUC − P R from 0.856 to 0.903. Moreover, the efficiency of SNF-NN by is verified by validating predicted unknown drug-disease interactions against clinical trials and published studies. In conclusion, computational drug repositioning research can significantly benefit from integrating similarity measures in heterogeneous networks and deep learning models for predicting novel drug-disease interactions
Characterisation of the SARS-CoV-2 ExoN (nsp14ExoN-nsp10) complex: implications for its role in viral genome stability and inhibitor identification
Authors: Baddock Hannah , Brolih Sanja , Yosaatmadja Yuliana , Rantnaweera Malitha , Bielinski Marcin , Swift Lonnie , Cruz-Migoni Abimael , Morris Garrett , Schofield Christopher , Gileadi Opher , McHugh Peter
Published: August 2020

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (CoV) causes COVID-19, a current global pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 belongs to an order of Nidovirales with very large RNA genomes. It is proposed that the fidelity of CoV genome replication is aided by an RNA nuclease complex, formed of non-structural proteins 14 and 10 (nsp14-nsp10), an attractive target for antiviral inhibition. Here, we confirm that the SARS-CoV-2 nsp14-nsp10 complex is an RNase. Detailed functional characterisation reveals nsp14-nsp10 is a highly versatile nuclease capable of digesting a wide variety of RNA structures, including those with a blocked 3´-terminus. We propose that the role of nsp14-nsp10 in maintaining replication fidelity goes beyond classical proofreading and purges the nascent replicating RNA strand of a range of potentially replication terminating aberrations. Using the developed assays, we identify a series of drug and drug-like molecules that potently inhibit nsp14-nsp10, including the known Sars-Cov-2 major protease (Mpro) inhibitor ebselen and the HIV integrase inhibitor raltegravir, revealing the potential for bifunctional inhibitors in the treatment of COVID-19.
A Synthetic Probiotic Engineered for Colorectal Cancer Therapy Modulates Gut Microbiota
Authors: Chung Yusook , Ryu Yongku , An Byung Chull , Yoon Yeo-Sang , Choi Oksik , Kim Tai Yeub , Yoon Jae Kyung , Ahn Jun Young , Park Ho Jin , Kwon Soon-Kyeong , Kim Jihyun F. , Chung Myung Jun
Published: August 2020

Background: Successful chemoprevention or chemotherapy is achieved through targeted delivery of prophylactic agents during initial phases of carcinogenesis or therapeutic agents to malignant tumors. Bacteria can be used as anticancer agents, but efforts to utilize attenuated pathogenic bacteria suffer from the risk of toxicity or infection. Lactic acid bacteria are safe to eat and often confer health benefits, making them ideal candidates for live vehicles engineered to deliver anticancer drugs.Results: In this study, we developed an effective bacterial drug delivery system for colorectal cancer (CRC) therapy using the lactic acid bacterium Pediococcus pentosaceus. It is equipped with dual gene cassettes driven by a strong inducible promoter that encode the therapeutic protein P8 fused to a secretion signal peptide and a complementation system. In an inducible CRC cell-derived xenograft mouse model, our synthetic probiotic significantly reduced tumor volume and inhibited tumor growth relative to the control. Mice with colitis-associated CRC induced by azoxymethane and dextran sodium sulfate exhibited polyp regression and recovered taxonomic diversity when the engineered bacterium was orally administered. Further, the synthetic probiotic modulated gut microbiota and alleviated the chemically induced dysbiosis. Correlation analysis demonstrated that specific bacterial taxa potentially associated with eubiosis or dysbiosis, such as Akkermansia or Turicibacter, have positive or negative relationships with other microbial members.Conclusions: Taken together, our work illustrates that an effective and stable synthetic probiotic composed of P. pentosaceus and the P8 therapeutic protein can reduce CRC and contribute to rebiosis, and the validity and feasibility of cell-based designer biopharmaceuticals for both treating CRC and ameliorating impaired microbiota.
The pre-loaded set-screw in InterTAN nail: should it be tightened or not tightened in pertrochanteric hip fractures
Authors: Du Shou-Chao , Wang Xiu-Hui , Chang Shi-Min
Published: August 2020

Background: InterTan is a specific type of cephalomedullary nail with a twin interlocking de-rotation and compression screw, which has inherent ability of anti-rotation. Whether to tighten or not to tighten the preloaded setscrew in InterTan nail is controversial in clinical practice.Methods: We retrospectively collected four nonunion cases of unstable pertrochanteric femur fractures (AO/OTA-31A2), all were treated with InterTan nail and the preloaded setscrew was tightened in order to prevent further sliding and femoral neck shortening. Results: After 6 months to 2 years follow-up, the fractures showed nonunion in radiography and the patients complained slight to middle degrees of pain, and had to use walking stick assistant in activities of daily life. Tightening the pre-loaded setscrew to prevent postoperative secondary sliding as static constructs might keep the femoral neck length, but lose the opportunity of telescoping for fracture impaction, and take the risk of healing complications, such as fracture nonunion, femoral head cutout or nail breakage.Conclusions: As the harm outweighs benefit, we advocate the preloaded setscrew in InterTan nail should not be tightened in pertrochanteric hip fractures (AO/OTA-31A1 and A2).
Effect of Nitrogen Rate on Use Efficiency and Yield of Wheat in Inner Terai Condition of Nepal
Authors: Ghimire Prabin
Published: August 2020

Unsuitable nitrogen management and low soil fertility are major constraints of wheat production in Nepal. Limited information is available on optimum nitrogen rates and use efficiencies. So a field experiment was conducted on the inner terai to determine the effect nitrogen on yield and improving the nitrogen use efficiency of wheat. Level of five doses of nitrogen, 0kg ha-1 (Control), 60kg ha-1,80kg ha-1,100kg ha-1 and 120kg ha-1 were laid out in Randomized Completely Block Design (RCBD) with four replication. Observation on the various parameters of yield attributing characters like plant height(cm), tiller m-2 thousand grain weight(Kg), spike length(cm), grain spike-1was found highest on Nitrogen dose 120 kg ha-1. Similarly, nitrogen at 120kg ha-1 increases the grain yield by increasing the biological yield and harvest index. Grain nitrogen concentration at 120 kg ha-1 is statistically similar with 100 kg ha-1 and 80 kg ha-1 while nitrogen uptake is highest (114.833kg ha-1) in 120kg ha-1 and lowest in control. Agronomic use efficiency is highest observed in 100kg ha-1 and lowest on 60 kg ha-1. Apparent fertilizer N recovery ratio obtained high (49.62%) in 120 kg ha-1 which is statistically similar to 100kg ha-1 (46.97%) and lowest (31.76%) in 60 kg ha-1. While observing agro physiological efficiency and Nitrogen harvest index did not show any significant difference among any treatments. The application of nitrogen at 120kg ha-1 was required to produce the optimum yield and increasing the nitrogen use efficiency traits.
Genome-wide identification and evolutionary analysis of RLKs involved in response to Aluminum stress in peanut
Authors: Wang Xin , Wu Ming-Hua , Xiao Dong , Huang Ruo-Lan , Zhan Jie , Wang Ai-Qin , He Long-Fei
Published: August 2020

Background: As an important cash crop, the yield of peanut is influenced by soil acidification and pathogen infection. Receptor-like protein kinase plays important roles in plant growth, development and stress responses. However, little is known about the number, location, structure, molecular phylogenetic, and expression of the RLKs in peanut, and no comprehensive analysis of RLKs in Al stress response in peanut have been reported. Results: A total of 1311 AhRLKs were identified from the peanut genome. The AhLRR-RLKs and AhLec-RLKs were further divided into 24 subfamilies and 35 subfamilies, respectively. The AhRLKs are randomly distributed across all 20 chromosomes in peanut. Among them, 67.8% and 0.6% of the AhRLKs originated from tandem duplications and segmental duplications, respectively. The ka/ks ratios of 94.9% (1290/1360) of AhRLKs were less than 1. Moreover, totally 90 Al-responsive AhRLKs were identified by mining transcriptome data, and they were divided into 7 groups. Most of Al responsive AhRLKs clustered together had similar motifs and evolutionarily conserved structures. The gene expression patterns of these genes in different tissues were further analyzed, and tissue specific expression genes, including 14 root-specific Al responsive AhRLKs were found. Besides, all of the 90 Al responsive AhRLKs which distributed unevenly in the subfamilies of AhRLKs have different expression pattern between two peanut varieties (Al-sensitive and Al-tolerant) under Al stress.Conclusions: In this study, we analyzed the RLK gene family by the peanut genome. Tandem replication events were the main driving force for AhRLKs evolution, and most AhRLKs were selected for purification. A total of 90 genes were identified as Al responsive AhRLKs, and the classification, conservative motif, structure, tissue expression pattern and predicted function of Al responsive AhRLKs were further analyzed and discussed, revealing their putative roles. This study provides a better understanding of the structures and functions of AhRLKs as well as Al responsive AhRLKs.
Reflection on There Form of China's Emergency Medical Insurance System Based on the Prevention and Control of COVID-19
Authors: Cheng Hui , Luo Meng , Li Shaohua
Published: August 2020

Objective: Based on the Prevention and Control of COVID-19, this paper points out the shortcomings of China's current medical insurance system, and puts forward the concept of establishing emergency medical insurance system.Methods: This paper analyzes the characteristics of the modern epidemic and its special requirements for medical insurance. Putting forward the idea of mechanism construction.Results:The operation of China's national medical insurance system is mainly operated by the insured, the government, medical institutions and medical institutions. However, the rapid spread of the epidemic has caused great disasters to the society. In the face of major public health events, medical insurance should have four characteristics: the "normalization" of the emergency medical insurance system, the fairness of guarantees, the public quality of treatment and positive externalities. China should establish an emergency system in line with these four characteristics from the four parties. Therefore, this paper analyzes the characteristics of modern epidemic risk, its development process and the requirements for the insurance industry in combination with the situation of China's response to dealing with COVID-19, and puts forward that China should further improve the universal medical insurance system and establish an emergency medical security system to better deal with all kinds of sudden public health events, which will still happen in the future.Conclusions:China's national medical insurance system should not be limited to meet people's conventional medical needs. When public health emergencies occur, it is also necessary to establish a sound medical insurance system to operate.The establishment of emergency medical security system is one of the important development directions of our country in the future.
The Inverse Dynamics of a 3-DOF Parallel Mechanism Based on Analytical Forward Kinematics
Authors: Wang Ke , Li Ju , Shen Huiping , You Jingjing , Yang Ting-Li
Published: August 2020

A new type of 3-dof parallel mechanism(PM) with analytical position forward solution is proposed. The reverse dynamic equation of the PM is solved. Different from the traditional dynamic analysis using inverse kinematics, the displacement, velocity and acceleration equations of the PM are established and solved by forward kinematics.The inverse dynamic equation of the PM is constructed and solved by analyzing the forces on each link and based on Newton-Euler method.Through MATLAB and ADAMS , the inverse dynamics is verified by an example. The maximum driving force error of each actuated pair is 1.32%, 5.8% and 5.2% respectively.This paper provides a theoretical basis for the design, manufacture and application of the PM.
A New Tropical Species of Psathyrella (Psathyrellaceae, Agaricales) From the Cúc Phương National Park, Vietnam
Authors: Büttner Enrico , Karich Alexander , Nghi Do Huu , Lange Maximilian , Liers Christiane , Kellner Harald , Hofrichter Martin , Ullrich René
Published: August 2020

Basidiocarps of a hitherto undescribed Psathyrella species were collected during a sampling excursion in North Vietnam. They grew on deciduous deadwood in the Southeastern part of the Cúc Phương National Park (Vietnamese: Vườn quốc gia Cúc Phương), Ninh Bình Province. Herein, we describe Psathyrella euryspora sp. nov. characterized by broadly ellipsoid to broadly ovoid basidiospores (5.5–7.0 × 4–5(–6)) µm without visible germ pore, utriform to ventricose-clavate cheilocystidia, heteromorphic caulocystidia and the absence of pleurocystidia and pileocystidia. Based on an isolated pure culture, the genome was sequenced and a full ribosomal RNA gene cistron including 18S, internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS), 5.8S, ITS2 and 28S rRNA annotated. Phylogenetic analysis of P. euryspora revealed its close affiliation to the Psathyrella sect. Candolleanae species clade.
Genetically predicted C-reactive protein associated with breast cancer risk: interrelation with estrogen and cancer molecular subtypes using a Mendelian randomization
Authors: Jung Su Yon , Papp Jeanette C. , Sobel Eric M. , Pellegrini Matteo , Yu Herbert , Zhang Zuo-Feng
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to erroneous posting.
SPRR2C, DEFB4A, WIF1, CRY2, and KRT19 are correlated with the development of atopic eczema
Authors: Yu Yiwu , Li Yufei , Jiang Miao , Zhao Jingjun
Published: August 2020

BackgroundAtopic eczema (AE) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease. The objective of this study was to identify key genes related to the development of AE.MethodsThe GSE6012 dataset was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The limma package was used to analyze differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Then, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) package was utilized to generate weighted correlation networks of up- and downregulated genes. Additionally, the WGCNA package was used for enrichment analyses to explore the underlying functions of DEGs in modules (weighted correlation sub-networks) significantly associated with AE.ResultsA total of 515 DEGs were identified between lesional and non-lesional skin samples. For the upregulated genes, the blue module was found to have a significant positive correlation with AE. Importantly, small proline-rich protein 2C (SPRR2C) and defensin, beta 4A (DEFB4A) exhibited higher |log fold change (FC)| values and were the key nodes of the network. Moreover, KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the upregulated genes in the blue module were primarily involved in cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. Additionally, for the downregulated genes, the brown module was found to have a significant positive correlation with AE. Further, WNT inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1), cryptochrome 2 (CRY2), and keratin 19 (KRT19) had higher |log FC| values and were key nodes of the network.ConclusionSPRR2C, DEFB4A, WIF1, CRY2, KRT19 and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction might be correlated with the development of AE.
Effects of High- and Low-proteindiets on Inflammatory Profiles in People With Morbid Obesity: A 3-week Intervention Study
Authors: Koelman Liselot , Markova Mariya , Seebeck Nicole , Hornemann Silke , Rosenthal Anke , Lange Volker , Pivovarova-Ramich Olga , Aleksandrova Krasimira
Published: August 2020

Background:Nutritional interventions in morbidly obese individuals that effectively reverse pro-inflammatory state and prevent obesity-associated medical complications are highly warranted. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of high- (HP) or low- (LP) protein diets on circulating immune-inflammatory biomarkers, includingC-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a), interleukin-10 (IL-10), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1),chemerin, omentin, leptin, total adiponectin, high molecular weight adiponectin and fetuin-A.Methods:18 people with morbid obesity were matched into two hypocaloric diet groups: HP (30E% protein, n=8) and LP (10E% protein, n=10) for three weeks.Biomarkers were measured pre-post intervention.We used linear mixed-effects models to investigate differences of least squares means for biomarkers, adjusted for age, sex, BMI, and baseline value.Results:Consuming HP or LP diets resulted in reduced CRP(HP: -2.2 ± 1.0 mg/l, LP: -2.3 ± 0.9 mg/l) and chemerin (HP: -17.9 ± 8.6 ng/ml, LP: -20.0 ± 7.4 ng/ml). People following the LP diet showed decreased leptin (-19.2± 6.0 ng/ml), IL-6 (-0.4 ± 0.1pg/ml) and increased total adiponectin (1.6 ± 0.6µg/ml). Changes were observed for remaining biomarkers yetto a smaller degree.Conclusions:These data suggest LP dietsmodulatea wider range of immune-inflammatory biomarkers compared to HP diets in morbidly obese individuals.Larger trials are needed to allow firm conclusions on the suggested effects.Trial registration: DRKS00009509. Registered 25 January 2016 – Retrospectively registered, www.drks.de
Specialized Neurodevelopmental Assessment and Consultation Service: An Innovative Clinic Model for Children with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure Based at an Autism Center
Authors: Ola Cindy , O'Connor Audrey L , Kuhn Michelle , Montague Rachel , Chew Brandi , Olson Heather Carmichael
Published: August 2020

Background: While global prevalence of conditions on the fetal alcohol spectrum is surprisingly high, there is insufficient diagnostic capacity so children can be missed or misdiagnosed. This study described an innovative clinic model for screening prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), assessing children using the DSM-5 diagnostic category for conditions on the fetal alcohol spectrum, and providing consultation.Methods: A retrospective review of 40 child patients with PAE examined feasibility of the clinic model.Results: Overall, the SNACS Clinic served families across a wide demographic range raising preschool and school-aged children with diverse neurodevelopmental and behavioral presentations. Study findings informed ongoing quality improvement of the clinic model, and identified provider and hospital-wide training needs.Conclusions: Findings indicate this clinic is feasible as a method for increasing diagnostic capacity, improving patient services, and potentially preventing misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis of children with PAE. Results can inform best practices for FASD-informed care.
Lernunterstützung mit digitalen Unterrichtsmaterialien
Authors: Böhme Richard , Munser-Kiefer Meike
Published: August 2020

Digitalen Medien wird grosses Potenzial für die Lernunterstützung beigemessen, das bislang oft nicht ausgeschöpft wird. Dieser Beitrag gibt einen Einblick in den Forschungsstand zu differenziellen Effekten der Mediengestaltung als Orientierungs- und Entscheidungshilfe zur Auswahl bzw. zur Entwicklung lernförderlicher digitaler Unterrichtsmaterialien. Es werden spezifische Aspekte der Gestaltung von multimedialen, hypermedialen und ludischen Arrangements hinsichtlich des möglichen Einflusses auf die kognitiven Verarbeitungsprozesse beschrieben, Entwicklungsperspektiven aus dem Bereich der Intelligenten Tutoriellen Systeme aufgezeigt und jeweils empirische Befunde dazu berichtet. Dazu werden nach der Kognitiven Theorie des Multimedialen Lernens (1) inhaltsbedingte, (2) sachfremde und (3) lernrelevante kognitive Prozesse unterschieden. Es zeigt sich mit Blick auf die Lernvoraussetzungen, den Lerninhalt und das Lernziel ein komplexes Bedingungsgefüge, bei dem durch gezielte Modifikationen am digitalen Medium das Lernen optimiert werden kann.
Lernen mit und über digitale Medien im Sachunterricht
Authors: Kunkel Carmen , Peschel Markus
Published: August 2020

Das Lernen mit und über digitale Medien muss Kindern bereits in der Grundschule ermöglicht werden, um ihnen frühzeitig eine kritische und konstruktive Auseinandersetzung mit digitalen Medien aus bildungsorientierter Perspektive zu ermöglichen. Aufgrund seiner welterschliessenden Kernaufgabe und seines vielperspektivischen Prinzips ist der Sachunterricht das zentrale Unterrichtsfach in der Grundschule für das Lernen mit und über digitale Medien im Sinne einer schulischen Medienbildung. Ausgehend von ihrer Lebenswelt sollen Grundschülerinnen und -schüler die Möglichkeit erhalten, digitale Medien als Sache des Sachunterrichts in ihrer Komplexität zu erschliessen. Dafür ist es notwendig, Konzepte für das Lernen über digitale Medien in einem vielperspektivischen Sachunterricht zu entwickeln, in denen zu prüfen ist, unter welchen Bedingungen digitale Technik für ein Lernen mit digitalen Medien sinnvoll eingesetzt werden kann. Mit dieser Herausforderung haben sich Studierenden des Lehramts Primarstufe an der Universität des Saarlandes im Sommersemester 2019 beschäftigt. Der Artikel stellt die Ergebnisse der seminar-begleitenden Konzeptentwicklung vor und gibt Ausblicke, wie diese ausgebaut werden können.
Response of Some Watermelon Accessions to a Puerto Rico Strain of Zucchini yellow mosaic virus
Authors: Rosa-Valentín Giseiry , Wessel-Beaver Linda , Rodrigues Jose Carlos V.
Published: August 2020

One of the most important members of the Potyviridae is Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV). It affects watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai] as well as other cucurbits in most parts of the world. Although several genotypes have been reported as having resistance to ZYMV, differential responses to ZYMV strains are known to occur. Using a Puerto Rico strain of ZYMV (ZYMV-PR, GenBank accession number MN422959), we tested the response of 11 genotypes [PIs from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Genetic Resources Program] previously reported as having resistance to this virus. In two greenhouse trials, the first three leaves of seedlings of each genotype were mechanically inoculated with ZYMV-PR. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was done on each seedling’s fourth leaf and symptom severity was rated on the first, third, fifth, and seventh leaves. There were significant genotype × trial interactions for most variables, but some genotypes performed consistently in both trials. All seedlings of PI 537277 tested negative for ELISA (absorbance < 0.200) across both trials. PI 537277, PI 595200, PI 595201, and PI 595203 were generally among the accessions with the lowest symptom severity scores. Overall, symptom severity correlated poorly with ELISA readings. But all plants of PI 537277, and most plants of PI 595201 and PI 595203, had low ELISA readings and low severity scores. Despite having low severity scores, PI 595200 was among the genotypes with the highest ELISA readings in trial 2. For the plant breeder, the most useful genotypes are those that exhibit reduced severity as well as low ELISA. PI 537277, PI 595201, and PI 595203 met those criteria in this study. Of these three accessions, PI 595203 would be the most useful in a breeding program because it has shown resistance to the Puerto Rico, Florida, and China strains of ZYMV.
Removal of Cr(VI) and methyl orange by activated carbon fiber supported nanoscale zero-valent iron in a continuous fixed bed column
Authors: Liu Jian , Yi Zhengji , Ou Ziling , Yang Tianhui
Published: August 2020

The application of activated carbon fiber supported nanoscale zero-valent iron (ACF-nZVI) in the continuous removal of Cr(VI) and methyl orange (MO) from aqueous solution was studied in depth. The breakthrough curves of Cr(VI) in a fixed bed with ACF-nZVI were measured, and compared with those in the fixed bed with ACF. The catalytic wet peroxide oxidation (CWPO) process for MO was also carried out using ACF-nZVI after reacting with Cr(VI) in the same fixed bed. The results showed that the breakthrough time of ACF-nZVI was significantly longer than that of ACF. Higher pH values were unfavorable for the Cr(VI) removal. The breakthrough time increased with decreasing inlet Cr(VI) concentration or increasing bed height. The Yoon–Nelson and bed depth service time (BDST) models were found to show good agreement with the experimental data. The Cr(VI) removal capacity when using ACF-nZVI was two times higher than that when using ACF. Under the optimal empty bed contact time of 1.256 min, the fixed bed displayed high MO conversion (99.2%) and chemical oxygen demand removal ratio (55.7%) with low Fe leaching concentration (<5 mg/L) after continuous running for 240 min. After three cycles, the conversion of MO remained largely unchanged.
Pharmacokinetic Profile of Oxaliplatin-Loaded pH-Responsive Hydrogels in Rabbits
Authors: Ullah Kaleem , Khan Shujaat Ali , Sohail Muhammad , Mannan Abdul , Murtaza Ghulam
Published: August 2020

Background:

Oxaliplatin (OXP), a 3rd generation platinum compound, which causes severe side effects
due to; impulse high concentration in the bloodstream thereby exposing healthy cells at a high ratio, nonspecific
delivery at the target site and non-compliance is administered intravenously.

Objective:

The project was aimed at the development, characterization, and in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation of pHresponsive
hydrogels for oral administration of OXP.

Methods:

Hydrogel formulations were synthesized through a free radical polymerization technique followed by
brief characterization using various techniques. The hydrogels were investigated for various in-vitro studies such
as sol-gel, drug loading, swelling, drug release, and MTT-assay. While in-vivo studies such as oral tolerability,
histopathology, and hematology studies were performed on rabbits. A simple and sensitive HPLC-UV method
was optimized and the comparative pharmacokinetic study was performed in rabbits using OXP-oral solution and
OXP-loaded hydrogels.

Results:

In-vitro characterization confirmed that the reactant was successfully crosslinked to form thermally
stable hydrogels with decreased crystallinity and rough surface. Swelling and drug release showed that hydrogels
were more responsive to basic pH (6.8 and 7.4) in comparison with pH 1.2. The blank hydrogels were cytocompatible
as more than 95% of the cells were viable while free OXP and OXP-loaded hydrogels displayed dosedependent
cytotoxic effect. In-vivo studies confirmed that chitosan and gelatin hydrogel suspension was well
tolerable up to 3800 mg/kg and 4000 mg/kg of body weight, respectively. Hematology and serum chemistry reports
were well within the range suggesting normal liver and kidney functions. Similarly, histopathology slides of
rabbit vital organs were also found normal without causing any histopathological change.

Conclusion:

HPLC-UV method was successfully optimized for OXP detection in oral solution and hydrogels
administered to rabbits. A significant difference was found among various pharmacokinetic parameters by comparing
the two groups including half-life (t1/2), tmax, Cmax, AUCtot MRT, Vz, and Lz.
Substituted 4-Formyl-2H-chromen-2-ones: Their Reaction with N-(2,3,4,6-Tetra-Oacetyl- β-D-galactopyranosyl)thiosemicarbazide, Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Their Thiosemicarbazone Products
Authors: Toan Vu Ngoc , Tri Nguyen Minh , Thanh Nguyen Dinh
Published: August 2020

Several 6- and 7-alkoxy-2-oxo-2H-chromene-4-carbaldehydes were prepared
from corresponding alkyl ethers of 6- and 7-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-oxo-2H-chromen-2-ones
by oxidation using selenium dioxide. 6- and 7-Alkoxy-4-methyl-2H-chromenes were obtained
with yields of 57-85%. Corresponding 4-carbaldehyde derivatives were prepared
with yields of 41-67%. Thiosemicarbazones of these aldehydes with D-galactose moiety
were synthesized by reaction of these aldehydes with N-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-Dgalactopyranosyl)
thiosemicarbazide with yields of 62-74%. These thiosemicarbazones
were screened for their antibacterial and antifungal activities in vitro against bacteria, such
as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and fungi, such as Aspergillus niger, Candida
albicans. Several compounds exhibited strong inhibitory activity with MIC values of 0.78-
1.56 μM, including 8a (against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans), 8d (against E. coli and A. niger), 9a
(against S. aureus), and 9c (against S. aureus and C. albicans).
The Elbs & Boyland-Sims Oxidations: Reactions of Peroxydisulfate-An Updated Literature Survey
Authors: Behrman Edward J.
Published: August 2020

Karl Elbs published his discovery of the reaction between phenols and peroxydisulfate in
1893. It was not until fifty years later that Boyland extended the reaction to aromatic amines. There
have been more than 300 citations of these reactions which, although usually giving only modest
yields, are nevertheless useful for their simplicity.
Preparation of MnOx/CNTs Catalyst by In situ Precipitation Method for Low-Temperature NO Reduction with NH3
Authors: Zhang Yanbing , Chen Yingzan , Huang Jinhe , Ding Mingjie , Li Xiaoyan , Zhao Haipeng
Published: August 2020

Background:

V2O5–WO3(MoO3)/TiO2 catalyst, as the core of selective catalytic reduction
of NO with NH3 (SCR) has some drawbacks, such as high working temperature window (300-
400°C), toxicity of V-based catalyst and so on. Therefore, the development of the catalyst with better
low temperature denitration activity and weaker toxicity are necessary.

Objective:

The study aimed at the development of highly dispersed MnOx/CNTs catalysts with excellent
denitration activity at 80-180°C, and weaker toxicity of MnOx. It is worth noting that an in-situ
precipitation method based on the reaction of manganese acetate and sodium carbonate, is advantageous
for the in-situ deposition of the active component, and the catalytic activity.

Methods:

MnOx/CNTs catalysts with different Mn/C molar ratios were fabricated by in-situ precipitation
method due to the reaction of manganese acetate and sodium carbonate. The microstructure,
crystalline property, the content of the surface element, valence state, redox property, and catalytic
activity were confirmed by FESEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, TPD, and fixed-bed reactor.

Results:

The as-prepared MnOx/CNTs catalysts exhibited outstanding low temperature SCR activity.
The NO conversion of the optimum 1.2% MnOx/CNTs catalyst reached 57.4-89.2% at 80-180oC,
which resulted from the amorphous MnOx catalysts, having a higher ratio of Mn4+/Mn3+ and
OS/(OS+OL).

Conclusion:

MnOx/CNTs catalysts have been prepared by the in-situ precipitation method based on
the reaction of manganese acetate and sodium carbonate. The resultant MnOx/CNTs catalysts presented
excellent low temperature denitration activity between 80°C and 180°C. Among them, the
1.2% MnOx/CNTs catalyst exhibited the first rate low temperature denitration activity, and the denitration
activity reached 57.4-89.2%, which may be due to the presence of the weakly crystalline or
amorphous MnOx, having higher ratio of Mn4+/Mn3+ and
OS/(OS+OL).
Neuroprotection of Rotenone-Induced Parkinsonism by Ursolic Acid in PD Mouse Model
Authors: Zahra Walia , Rai Sachchida Nand , Birla Hareram , Singh Saumitra Sen , Rathore Aaina Singh , Dilnashin Hagera , Singh Richa , Keswani Chetan , Singh Rakesh K. , Singh Surya Pratap
Published: August 2020

Background:

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is characterized by both motor and non-motor
symptoms. The presynaptic neuronal protein, α-Synuclein, plays a pivotal role in PD pathogenesis and
is associated with both genetic and sporadic origin of the disease. Ursolic Acid (UA) is a well-known
bioactive compound found in various medicinal plants, widely studied for its anti-inflammatory and
antioxidant activities.

Objective:

In this research article, the neuroprotective potential of UA has been further explored in the
Rotenone-induced mouse model of PD.

Methods:

To investigate our hypothesis, we have divided mice into 4 different groups, control, drug
only control, Rotenone-intoxicated group, and Rotenone-intoxicated mice treated with UA. After the
completion of dosing, behavioral parameters were estimated. Then mice from each group were sacrificed
and the brains were isolated. Further, the biochemical tests were assayed to check the balance
between the oxidative stress and endogenous anti-oxidants; and TH (Tyrosine Hydroxylase),
α-Synuclein, Akt (Serine-threonine protein kinase), ERK (Extracellular signal-regulated kinase) and
inflammatory parameters like Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB) and Tumor Necrosis Factor- α (TNF-α) were
assessed using Immunohistochemistry (IHC). Western blotting was also done to check the expressions
of TH and α-Synuclein. Moreover, the expression levels of PD related genes like α-Synuclein,
β-Synuclein, Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and Interleukin-10 (IL-10) were assessed by using Real-time
PCR.

Results:

The results obtained in our study suggested that UA significantly reduced the overexpression
of α-Synuclein and regulated the phosphorylation of survival-related kinases (Akt and ERK) apart
from alleviating the behavioral abnormalities and protecting the dopaminergic neurons from oxidative
stress and neuroinflammation.

Conclusion:

Thus, our study shows the neuroprotective potential of UA, which can further be explored
for possible clinical intervention.