bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Associated Factors of the Metabolic Syndrome Among a National Population Based Sample of 18-108 Year-olds in Iraq: Results of the 2015 Steps Survey
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl
Published: June 2020

Background:Thisstudyaimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of the metabolic syndrome (MetS)among 18-108 year-old persons inIraq.Method: Nationally representative cross-sectional data were analysed from 3,703 18-108 year old persons (32 years median age) that participated in the “2015Iraq STEPS survey,” with complete MetS measurements.Results: Results indicate that39.4% of 18-108 year-olds had MetS (harmonized definition), 39.8% among women and 39.0% among men, and the mean number of MetS components was 2.4 (SD=1.4), 2.4(SD=1.4) among women and 1.5 (SD=1.4) among men. In adjusted logistic regression analysis, older age, current and past smoking and general overweight and obesity were associated with MetS. In addition, in unadjusted analysis, having lower education, ever alcohol use, and low physical activity were associated with MetS. In adjusted linear regression analysis, male sex, lower education, and obesity were associated with greater number of MetS components.Conclusion: Two in five participants had MetS and several associated indicators were found which couldbe supportive in designing interventionactivities.
“We Can’t Handle Things We don’t Know About”: Perceived Neurorehabilitation Needs and Challenges for Malawian Paediatric Cerebral Malaria Survivors
Authors: Boubour Alexandra , Mboma Sebastian , Võ Tracy , Birbeck Gretchen L. , Seydel Karl B. , Mallewa Macpherson , Chinguo Dorothy , Gladstone Melissa , Mohamed Suraya , Thakur Kiran T.
Published: June 2020

Background: We sought to identify perceptions of neurorehabilitation needs and challenges for paediatric cerebral malaria (CM) survivors post-hospital discharge at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) in Blantyre, Malawi. Methods: An exploratory approach was used to qualitatively investigate current available neurorehabilitation services; investigate the needs of caregivers, CM survivors, providers, and the community; and identify challenges and methods to accessing neurorehabilitation services. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs).Results: Eighteen data-gathering sessions were conducted with 38 total participants, including 3 FGDs with 23 primary caregivers, 11 IDIs with healthcare workers at QECH, and 4 IDIs with community-based rehabilitation workers (CRWs). FGDs revealed that caregivers lack important knowledge about CM and fear recurrence of CM in their children. Post-CM children and families experience substantial stigma and sociocultural barriers to integrating into their community and accessing neurorehabilitative care. At a community-level, rehabilitation infrastructure, including trained staff, equipment, and programmes, is extremely limited. Rehabilitation services are inequitably accessible, and community-based rehabilitation remains largely unavailable.Conclusions: There is an urgent need to establish further training of rehabilitation personnel at all levels and to build accessible rehabilitation infrastructure in Malawi for post-CM patients. Additional work is required to expand this study across multiple regions for a holistic understanding of neurorehabilitation needs.
Clinical Characteristics, Risk Factors and Outcomes of Mixed Candida Albicans/Bacterial Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Zhong Li , Zhang Shufang , Tang Kankai , Zhou Feifei , Zheng Cheng , Zhang Kai , Cai Jiachang , Zhou Hongwei , Wang Yesong , Tian Baoping , Zhang Zhaocai , Cui Wei , Dong Zhaohui , Zhang Gensheng
Published: June 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the clinical features, risk factors, and outcomes of the mixed Candida albicans/bacterial bloodstream infections (mixed-CA/B-BSIs) compared with monomicrobial Candida albicans bloodstream infection (mono-CA-BSI) in adult patients in China.Methods: All adult hospitalized cases of Candida albicans bloodstream infection (CA-BSI) were recruited in the retrospective observational study from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2018.Results: Of the 117 patients with CA-BSI, 24 patients (20.5%) were mixed-CA/B-BSIs. The most common co-pathogens were Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (24.0%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (20.0%) and Staphylococcus aureus (16.0%). In multivariable analysis, prior ICU stay>2days (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 7.808; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.264-48.233) was an independent factor of mixed-CA/B-BSIs. In comparison with mono-CA-BSI, patients with mixed-CA/B-BSIs developed with prolonged length of mechanical ventilation [17.5(4.5,34.8) vs. 3.0(0.0,24.5), P=0.019], prolonged length of ICU stay [22.0(14.3, 42.2) vs. 8.0(0.0, 31.5), P=0.010], whereas the mortality was not significantly different. Conclusions: A high rate of mixed-CA/B-BSIs is among CA-BSI, and Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus is the predominant co-existed species. Prior ICU stay>2 days is an independent risk factor for mixed-CA/B-BSIs. Although there is no difference in mortality, the outcomes of patients with mixed-CA/B-BSIs including prolonged length of mechanical ventilation and prolonged length of ICU stay were worse than those with mono-CA-BSI, which deserves further attention of clinicians.
SETDB1 Promotes the Growth of Glioma via CSF-1-dependent Macrophage Recruitment by Activating the AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Han Shuai , Zhen Wei , Guo Tongqi , Zou Jianjun , li fuyong
Published: June 2020

Background: Glioma is a common disease of the central nervous system (CNS), with high morbidity and mortality. Among the infiltrates in the tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are abundant and they are significant factors in glioma progression. However, the exact details of disease progression have yet to be determined. Methods: The clinical relevance of SETDB1 was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR and Western blotting and of glioma cancer tissues. Tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion were investigated by MTS assay, colony formation assay, xenograft, wound healing and Transwell assay. The relationship between SETDB1 and CSF-1, as well as TAMS was examined by Western blotting, real-time PCR and syngeneic mouse model.Results: This work shows the presence and upregulation of SETDB1 in gliomaand its relationship with disease prognosis. Gain and loss of function approaches showed the inhibition of apoptosis and the promotion of growth, migration and invasion of the disease with SETDB1 overexpression and converse effects with SETDB1 silencing in vitro. Mechanistically, SETDB1 promotes CSF-1 expression by activating the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. This leads to macrophage recruitment in the tumor, leading to tumor growth. Conclusion: This studyclarifies the modulation of tumor functions by SETDB1 and hence presents a future avenue for treating glioma.
Efficacy, Safety, and Long-term Survival of Concomitant Valve Replacement and Bipolar Radiofrequency Ablation in Patients Aged 70 Years and Older: A Comparative Study With Propensity Score Matching From a Single-Center
Authors: Lin Zhi-qin , Luo Zeng-rong , Li Qian-zhen , Chen Liang-wan , lin feng
Published: June 2020

Background: Concomitant bipolar radiofrequency ablation and valve replacement in the elderly remains controversial. We aim to compare the outcomes of concomitant valve replacement and bipolar radiofrequency ablation with valve replacement alone in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients aged ≥ 70 years who underwent valve replacement with or without bipolar radiofrequency ablation in a single-center between January 2006 and March 2015. Early postoperative results and long-term clinical outcomes were compared after propensity score matching.Results: 34 pairs of patients (73.94±2,64 years old, 34 in the AF ablated group and 34 in the AF untreated group) were enrolled in the propensity score matching analysis. No significant differences between the two matched groups were found about surgical mortality (5.88% vs. 2.94%, P=0.555) and major postoperative morbidity. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a significantly better overall survival (P=0.009) in the AF ablated group. Cumulative incidence curves showed a lower incidence of cardiovascular death in the AF ablated group (P=0.025, Gray’s test). Patients in the AF ablated group had a reduced incidence of stroke events compared with patients in the AF untreated group (P=0.009, Gray’s test). Freedom from AF after 5 years was 58.0% in the AF ablated group, compared with 3.0% in the AF untreated group.Conclusions: The addition of bipolar radiofrequency ablation is a feasible and safe procedure even in patients aged ≥ 70 years, with a better long-term survival and a reduced incidence of stroke events compared with valve replacement alone. These findings suggest that bipolar radiofrequency ablation should always be considered as a concomitant procedure for elderly patients with AF presenting for cardiac surgery.
Exploring Perspectives on Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Qualitative Study of Health Managers in Kenya
Authors: Mbugua Samuel Mungai , Njoroge George , Kijogi Caroline , Kamita Moses , Kimani Rachel , Mwaura Peter , Waiganjo-Aidi Bibianne Wanja , Gitaka Jesse Njihia
Published: June 2020

Background: Antimicrobial resistance is a significant public health concern with the establishment of antimicrobial stewardship in hospitals being obligatory now more than ever. The perspectives and insights of health managers on antimicrobial stewardship, the complementary health services and building blocks are imperative towards implementation of robust antimicrobial stewardship programs.Methods: A cross-sectional, qualitative, multicenter study was conducted in three hospitals in Kenya. Key-informant, face-to-face interviews with hospital health managers were carried out on their perspectives on antimicrobial stewardship. Qualitative data was captured using audio tapes and field notes, transcribed and managed using QSR Nvivo 12 software. An iterative process was used to develop the thematic framework and updated in two rounds of iteration analysis. Analysis charts for each emergent theme were developed and categorized across all participants.Results: Perspectives on antimicrobial stewardship are described in five thematic categories; Importance of antimicrobial stewardship and the role of medicines and therapeutics committee, availability of an antimicrobial formulary and usage surveillance systems, Laboratory competency and recommendations for infection prevention and management, Educational resources and communications channels available, Building blocks and low-lying fruits for ASCs. The role of stewardship collaboration in diagnosis and antimicrobial prescription was alluded to with managers indicating a growing rise in occurrence of antimicrobial resistance. There was no contextualized, hospital specific antimicrobial formulary based on the local antibiograms in any of the hospitals. Lack of adequate laboratory competency was a major deficit with most hospitals lacking culture and sensitivity testing services. Staff training and communication channels were available in varying capacity across the three hospitals. Building blocks identified include medicines and therapeutics committee, education and training platforms (CMEs and CPDs) and hospital leadership commitment towards antimicrobial stewardship.Conclusions: The findings underpin the importance of understanding and incorporating the perspectives of health managers on the existing contextual mechanisms that can be leveraged on to establish robust AMS programs in the fight against AMR.
Utilization of Integrated Angiography-CT Interventional Radiology Suites at a Tertiary Cancer Center
Authors: Erinjeri Joseph P. , Doustaly Raphael , Avignon Grégoire , Bendet Achiude , Petre Elena , Ziv Etay , Yarmohammadi Hooman , Solomon Stephen B.
Published: June 2020

Background
Integrated Angiography-Computed Tomography (ACT) suites were initially designed in the 1990’s to perform complex procedures requiring high-resolution cross-sectional imaging and fluoroscopy. Since then, there have been technology developments and changes in patient management. The purpose of this study was to review the current usage patterns of a single center’s integrated ACT suites.
Methods
All procedures performed in 2017 in 3 ACT suites (InterACT Discovery RT, GE Healthcare) at a tertiary cancer center were reviewed retrospectively. Usage was classified as: Standard, in which the patient underwent a single procedure using either fluoroscopy, CT, or ultrasound (US); Combined, in which the patient underwent a single procedure utilizing both fluoroscopy and CT; or Staged, in which the patient underwent 2 separate but successive procedures using fluoroscopy and CT individually. The most frequently performed Combined and Staged procedures were further reviewed to determine how the different modalities were used. The duration of the most common Staged procedures was compared to analogous procedures’ durations in single modality rooms over the period Jan 2016 to Sep 2019.
Results
A total of 3591 procedures were performed on 2678 patients in the 3 ACT Suites. 80% of patients underwent a Standard procedure using fluoroscopy (38%), CT (32%) or US (10%) and accounted for 70% of the room occupation time. 14% and 3% of the patients underwent Combined or Staged procedures, occupying 19% and 5% of the room time, respectively. The remaining procedures were classified as both Combined and Staged, representing 3% of the patients and 6% of the room occupation time. The most common Combined procedures were drainages, hepatic arterial embolizations or radioembolizations, arterial, and biliary interventions. The most common Staged procedures were multiple drainages and hepatic arterial embolizations followed by biopsies or ablations. The room occupation time for liver tumor embolization and ablation was significantly shorter (p < 0.01) when performed in a Staged fashion versus the analogous procedures in single modality room.
Conclusion
An integrated ACT system provides the capability to perform complex Combined or Staged procedures as well as scheduling flexibility by allowing any type of case to be performed in the IR suite.
Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Factors Among Medicaland Surgical Outpatients of University of Gondar Specialized Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Demilew Demeke , Tesfaw Getachew , Kerebih Habtamu , Salelew Endalamaw
Published: June 2020

Background: Alcohol use disorders increase the risk for physical harm, mental or social consequences for patients and others in the communities. Studies on alcohol use disorder and associated factors among medical and surgical outpatients in Ethiopia are limited. Therefore, this study is meant to provide essential data alcohol use disorder and associated factors among medical and surgical outpatients for future interventions. Methods:An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted using the systematic random sampling technique. Alcohol use disorder was assessed using the World Health Organization’s 10-item Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed, P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant in the multivariate analysisand the strength of association was measured using AOR at a 95% confidence interval.Results: The prevalence of alcohol use and use disorder were 322(68.50%) and 111(34.5%), respectively. In the multivariate analysis, male sex (AOR=3.33, 95%CI: 1.40, 7.93), history of mental illness (AOR=2.68, 95%CI: 1.12, 6.38), drinking for relaxation (AOR=1.88, 95%CI: 1.02, 3.48) and history of lifetime tobacco use (AOR=5.64, 95%CI: 1.95, 16.29) were significantly associated with the disorders. Conclusions: The prevalence of alcohol use disorders among medical and surgical outpatients was found to be high. Male sex, history of mental illness, use of alcohol for relaxation and tobacco smoking need further attention in the assessment of the disorder.
Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Anxiety in Rheumatology Patients Taking Immunosuppressive Drugs
Authors: Duran Tugba Izci , Acikgoz Seyyid Bilal , Gurbuz Cemal , Ucar Aysegul , Yavuzbilge Gokhan , Ozgen Metin
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a public health emergency that is causing international concern. Patients with medical comorbidities are more likely to be infected and have a worse prognosis. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of anxiety due to COVID-19 pandemic in patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) who used immunosuppressive drugs during the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify the risk and protective factors that cause anxiety.Methods: A total of 145 patients with RMDs aged ≥18 years who used regular immunosuppressive drugs and 95 healthy controls were included in the study. An anonymous survey comprising questions regarding the COVID-19 pandemic was used, and the Beck anxiety inventory (BAI) was used to measure the anxiety levels of participants. Additional information was collected such as demographic data, current RMDs, immunosuppressive drugs used, information and concerns about COVID-19, and the source of information about COVID-19.Results: About 42.1% patients reported that the epidemic caused concern due to the drug they were using, and 33.8% rated their concerns as moderate and severe. The BAI scores of patients and healthy controls were 4 (0-52) and 3 (0-18) respectively. According to the BAI scores, 16.5% patients had moderate to severe anxiety symptoms; and comparison of the groups showed that the anxiety level of the patient group was significantly higher (38.6% vs. 18.9%, p=0.001). Female had more anxiety symptoms in both groups (p<0.005). In addition, anxiety was lower in patients with higher education levels (p=0.039).Conclusion: It should be ensured that patients in the high-risk group are not provided false information, the patients are individually informed, and they trust the treatment team. Providing online or smartphone-based psychoeducation and psychological interventions may be considered for these patients with high anxiety levels.
DNA Double Strand Breaks in the Toxoplasma Gondii-Infected Cells by the Action of Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Zhuang Haohan , Yao Chaoqun , Zhao Xianfeng , Yang Yi , Chen Xueqiu , Yang Yimin , Huang Siyang , Pan Lingtao , Du Aifang
Published: June 2020

Background: Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an obligate parasite of the warm-blooded animals with a worldwide distribution. Once having entered a host cell, it manipulates host’s DNA damage response that is yet to be investigated. The objectives of the present study were three-fold: 1) to assess DNA damages in T. gondii-infected cells in vitro; 2) to ascertain sources causing DNA damage in T. gondii-infected cells; 3) to investigate activation of DNA damage response during T. gondii infection.Methods: HeLa, Vero and HEK293 cells were infected with T. gondii at multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 10:1. Infected cells at 10 h, 20 h or 30 h post infection were analyzed for a DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) biomarker γH2AX using Western blot and immunofluorescence assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were examined using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA), and the impact of ROS on DNA damage was assessed by inhibition using a ROS inhibitor N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Lastly, DNA damage response in these T. gondii-infected cells was evaluated by detecting the expression of active form of ataxia telangiectasia mutated/checkpoint kinase 2 (ATM/CHK2) with Western blot. Results: Compared to uninfected cells, γH2AX expression in the infected HeLa cells at 10 h, 20 h, and 30 h was increased over time during T. gondii infection. NAC treatment reduced ROS level in host cells and significantly decreased the expression of γH2AX. Expression of phosphorylated ATM/CHK2 was elevated in T. gondii-infected cells.Conclusion: T. gondii infection triggered DNA DSBs with ROS as a major player in host cells in vitro. It also concomitantly activated DNA damage response pathway ATM/CHK2. T. gondii struggles a balance between survival and apoptosis of its host cells for the benefit of its own survival.
Renal Cell Carcinoma Metastasis to the Maxillary Bone: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nishii Naoto , Shimamoto Hiroaki , Ohsako Toshimitsu , Yokokawa Misaki , Sato Yuriko , Ohata Yae , Kayamori Kou , Ikeda Tohru , Harada Hiroyuki
Published: June 2020

Background: Metastasis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to the oral cavity is rare. Given the poor prognosis of metastatic RCC, treatment choice is difficult. Here, we report a case of RCC metastasis to the maxillary bone, and provide a detailed literature review regarding the patient characteristics, treatments and outcomes of RCC metastasis to the oral cavity.Case presentation: An 89-year-old Japanese man presented with an 8 × 8-mm granulomatous tumor with palpable pulsation in the left upper gingiva, which had been clinically suspected as an arteriovenous malformation. The patient had undergone left nephrectomy for clear cell carcinoma 7 years prior. Pulmonary metastasis had appeared 3 years later. The patient underwent tumor resection of the maxilla after intravascular embolization, and the tumor was histopathologically diagnosed as a metastasis of clear cell RCC to the maxillary bone. Seventeen months after surgery, he died because of pulmonary metastasis without evidence of recurrence in the oral cavity.Conclusion: Our literature review reveals that oral metastatic lesions of renal cancer often exhibit rapid enlargement and cause severe symptoms, such as dysphagia and bleeding. Although oral metastasis of RCC has a poor prognosis due to the presence of concurrent disseminated metastases, surgical therapy may be recommended because of its high local control rate and ability to maintain quality of life.
Development of a national survey on foot involvement among people with psoriatic arthritis in Australia using a best practice approach: A survey development protocol
Authors: Carter Kate , Walmsley Steven , Rome Keith , Turner Deborah E.
Published: June 2020

Background

Limited research to date has defined the nature and extent of foot involvement in a psoriatic arthritis-specific population in Australia and the scale of the problem remains unclear. Survey research provides the ideal opportunity to sample a large population over a wide geographical area. Although quality criteria for survey research have been developed, research shows that adherence is low and that survey studies are poorly reported in peer-reviewed survey articles, which limits the ability to inform future survey design. The objective of this paper was to develop a national survey about foot involvement in people with psoriatic arthritis using a best practice approach.

Methods

A systematic, multi-stage process of survey development was undertaken, which comprised 3 phases: 1) the generation of the conceptual framework and survey content; 2) the development of the survey and pre-testing and 3) development of the survey dissemination strategy. A survey best practice approach was adopted using iterative pre-testing techniques, which included; cognitive debriefing, cultural sensitivity review, survey design expert validation, subject expert validation and pilot testing. Targeted postal and online survey dissemination strategies were developed a priori to optimise the response rates anticipated.

Results

A 59-item survey with 8 sections was developed. Findings demonstrated a high survey response (n=649), high data completeness (83% of respondents reached the end of the survey) and low rates of missing data (below 5% for 95% of respondents). Extensive survey pre-testing among the target population, health professionals and experts improved the overall quality, content validity, functioning and representativeness of the survey instrument, which optimised potential response rates. Clear audit trails that mapped the analytical process at each stage substantiated the rigour of the survey development methods. Robust strategies for sampling, survey dissemination and community engagement were deemed to have made a powerful contribution to response rates and the scale of information collected.

Conclusions

Robust patient-centred methods in survey design were used to create a novel, high-quality survey to comprehensively evaluate psoriatic arthritis-related foot involvement. Transparent and precise description of the survey design and dissemination methods provides useful information to other researchers embarking on survey design in healthcare.
SOX4 promotes the growth and metastasis of breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Jing , Xiao Chunhua , Feng Zhenbo , Gong Yun , Sun Baohua , Li Zhongqi , Lu Yimin , Fei Xiaojie , Wu Weizhu , Sun Xiaoping , Teng Lisong
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Increasing evidence has shown that the transcription factor SOX4 is closely associated with the development and progression of many malignant tumors. However, the effect of SOX4 on breast cancer is unclear. In this study, we purposed to investigate the role of SOX4 in the growth and metastasis in breast cancer and the underlying mechanism. Moreover, the effect of SOX4 on cancer cell resistance to chemotherapeutic agents was also evaluated in vitro and in vivo .

Methods

We used lentivirus technique to ectopically express SOX4 in MDA-MB-231 and SUM149 cells or knockdown SOX4 in BT474 cells, and examined the effect of these changes on various cellular functions. MTT assay was used to determine the cell viability as well as resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. The regulation of SOX4 on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes was analyzed using qRT-PCR. The binding of SOX4 to the CXCR7 gene was demonstrated using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. The effect of SOX4/CXCR7 axis on metastasis was examined using Transwell migration and Matrigel invasion assays. The expression of SOX4/CXCR7 in primary tumors and metastatic foci in lymph nodes was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Cellular morphology was investigated under phase contrast microscope and transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the effect of SOX4 on tumor growth, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy was also studied in vivo by using bioluminescent imaging.

Results

SOX4 increased breast cancer cell viability, migration, and invasion in vitro and enhanced tumor growth and metastasis in vivo . It regulated EMT-related genes and bound to CXCR7 promoter to upregulate CXCR7 transcription. Both SOX4 and CXCR7 were highly expressed in human primary tumors and metastatic foci in lymph nodes. Treatment of breast cancer cells with the CXCR7 inhibitor CCX771 reversed the SOX4 effect on cell migration and invasion. Ectopic expression of SOX4 increased the susceptibility of cells to paclitaxel.

Conclusions

SOX4 plays an important role in the growth and metastasis of breast cancer. SOX4/CXCR7 may serve as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment. Paclitaxel may be a good therapeutic option if the expression level of SOX4 is high.
Comparison of High-Risk Lifestyles and Obesity in Predicting Risk of Incident Hypertension: A Cohort Study
Authors: Luo Wen-Shu , Ding Yi , Guo Zhirong
Published: June 2020

Background The aim of this study was to compare the impact of obesity and lifestyle factors, including sedentary behavior, high fat diet and low fiber diet on incident essential hypertension (EH) in a population-based Chinese cohort. Methods We analyzed data from a population-based prospective cohort of 2778 participants aged 35–74 years from Jiangsu China who were free of hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) at enrollment and were followed for hypertension events. Results Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) of hypertension and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of 2778 participants were studied, including 660 cases. In non-obese subjects, SBP and DBP levels were lower in subjects without high risk lifestyles, compared to subjects with high risk lifestyles. However, in obese subjects, SBP and DBP levels were not different between subjects with and without high-risk lifestyles. In non-obese subjects, all high risk lifestyles were associated with higher EH risk, however, all high risk lifestyles were not associated with EH in obese subjects. Conclusions Obesity was a more important risk factor of EH than high-risk lifestyles. Life style modification may achieve few effects on EH risk if no weight was lost. Life style modification only achieved few effects on EH risk factors in obese subjects, suggesting that a focus on reducing obesity through a broad range of actions is likely to be more effective in preventing EH than an approach that solely focuses on inactivity and unhealthy diet style.
Influence of Thermal Expansion on the Bond Strength of Nanozirconia and Veneering Ceramics
Authors: Almoualimy Ahlam , Yew Hsu Zenn , Zaman Jasmina Qamaruz , Yahaya Norziha , Muchtar Andanastuti
Published: June 2020

This study was aimed to determine the coefficient thermal expansion (CTE) of colloidal-processed slip-casted novel nanozirconia (Zir) and to elucidate the effect of the differences in CTE values between zirconia cores and veneering porcelains on core–veneer shear bond strength (SBS). CTE measurement was performed on core materials (CMs; Zir and Cercon® [Cer]) and veneering ceramics (VCs; Ceram Kiss® [CK], VITA VM9® [VM9], and IPS e.max Ceram® [e.max]). The SBS test was conducted on six groups of core–veneer samples (Zir–CK, Zir–e.max, Zir–VM9, Cer–CK, Cer–e.max, and Cer–VM9). The mean CTE values (× 10− 6/°C ± standard deviation) of Zir and Cer were 7.86 ± 0.47 and 7.82 ± 0.49, respectively. CK, VM9, and e.max recorded mean CTE values of 7.20 ± 0.62, 7.20 ± 0.29, and 7.10 ± 0.46, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found among the CTE values of CMs and between those of VCs. Zir–VM9 recorded the highest mean SBS value (MPa) of 149.48 ± 67.64, whereas Cer–e.max produced the lowest SBS value of 44.07 ± 16.49. Combinations with high CTE disparities produced low SBS values. CTE discrepancies affected the SBS of veneered zirconia restorations. The novel zirconia showed similar performance and can be used as an alternative to commercial zirconia.
A comparative study of cyclophosphamide, thalidomide and dexamethasone (CTD) versus bortezomib and dexamethasone (BDex) in light-chain amyloidosis
Authors: Liu Baojian , Wang Yan , Ning Xiaoxuan , Bai Ming , Wang Di , Zhao Jin , Zhou Meilan , Sun Shiren
Published: June 2020

Background: Cyclophosphamide, thalidomide and dexamethasone (CTD) or bortezomib and dexamethasone (BDex) show substantial efficacy in patients with amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis, especially in Chinese patients. Currently, both regimens are recommended as primary treatment options for AL amyloidosis, but no comparative study has been reported. Results: We retrospectively evaluated the outcomes of 81 AL patients who received CTD (n=42) or BDex (n=39) and used Mayo stage 2012 to match 26 pairs of patients. In the whole cohort, the overall hematologic responses were 86% vs 91% in the CTD and BDex groups, including a complete response of 56% vs 71% based on an intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. One- and two-year overall survival (OS) was 90.2% and 81.7% with CTD, and 87.6% and 82.7% with BDex. After matching, BDex regimen induced a significantly deeper and more rapid hematologic response over CTD, but no statistically significant difference in OS (ITT analysis, P =0.24; 6-month landmark analysis, P =0.48). Cardiac response rates were similar, while there was a trend for higher renal responses in patients treated with BDex (68% vs 44%, P =0.09). Additionally, BDex was associated with significantly improved survival in patients with advanced disease (Mayo stage III or worse) ( P =0.009). Patients treated with BDex reported more episodes of severe hematologic toxicity and diarrhea. Conclusions: CTD and BDex are effective treatments for Chinese patients with AL amyloidosis, but BDex regimen appears superior to CTD in achieving a more rapid and deeper clonal response, and in improving OS in patients with advanced disease.
Machine Learning Analysis of Virus based on Transmission Electron Microscopy Images: Application to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Dabiri Y , Kassab GS
Published: June 2020

The goal of this paper was to develop a machine learning (ML) platform for categorization of viruses using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. More efficient pathogenesis, treatment and vaccine development strategies become possible once the virus family is identified. We used three deep learning (DL) pretrained models namely AlexNet, VGG16 and SquezzeNet. The classifier portion of the models was modified and trained for the available virus dataset. We used 20% of the images (320) for testing the DL models. The dataset included TEM images from 16 virus families including novel corona virus (SARS-CoV-2). We also used two unsupervised methods to analyze image clusters: principal component analysis (PCA) and t- distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE). The results from PCA and t-SNE were visualized based on two components. The AlexNet, VGG16 and SqueezeNet models were able to predict the categorization of test images with accuracy 77.8±4.5%, 75.3±4.7% and 77.8±4.5%, respectively. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves had area under curve (AUC) greater than 0.9. Our PCA and t-STE results suggested SARS-CoV-2 is closest to Influenza family of viruses. Using DL models, TEM images can be classified into virus families. This ML approach may lead to more accurate and faster virus TEM image classification tools, which is particularly important for pandemic situations such as with the current SARS-CoV-2 crisis.
Budget planning with the development of the budget process in Ukraine
Authors: Romenska Kateryna , Chentsov Victor , Rozhko Oleksandr , Uspalenko Vitaliy
Published: June 2020

The transition to future-oriented medium-term budget planning has been an important innovation in the budget process of Ukraine. Since then, the main budget indicators are calculated for the next three years with a forecast that allows for systemic reforms in several areas. This paper aims to identify problems of implementing budget planning for generating an envisaged and balanced budget in conjunction with the priorities of the state. The current status of budget planning and budget performance is analyzed by reviewing budget legislation, budget reporting, information-analytical and presentation data of state authorities and local governments, the experience of developed countries that have achieved some success in medium-term budget planning in terms of income and spending. The paper also reveals the features and advantages of medium-term budget planning based on the result; explores the approaches to transparent, effective, and high-quality use of budget funds with a limited potential of the state to increase tax revenues. The implementation of budget planning is due to the need for further development of the budget process in Ukraine towards increasing predictability, transparency, stabilizing the budget in the medium term, and solving important problems of efficient and high-quality use of budget funds for economic and social recovery.
İletişimsizliğin Gülen Yüzleri: Karagöz ile Hacivat
Authors: Yenen Avcı Yıldız
Published: June 2020

Geleneksel Türk tiyatrosunun önemli türlerinden olan Karagöz, toplumu ilgilendiren konuları kuklalar aracılığıyla beyaz perdeye yansıtan bir eğlence ve eğitim aracıdır. Bu araştırmada Türkçe ders kitaplarında yer alan Karagöz ile Hacivat metinlerinin iletişim boyutuyla ele alınması ve bu metinlerde yer alan mizah unsurlarının tespit edilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çalışma doküman incelemesi modelindedir. Araştırmanın verileri, 2018-2019 Eğitim-Öğretim Yılı içinde Ortaokul ve İmam Hatip Ortaokulunda okutulması ön görülen bütün Türkçe ders kitaplarından elde edilmiştir.
Araştırma sonucunda; ders kitaplarının %86’sında Karagöz metinlerine yer verildiği, bu metinlerin genel olarak tiyatro türünde okuyucuya sunulduğu, metinlerin daha çok “millî kültür” ve “erdemler” teması altında sıralandığı ve dört temel beceriden en az yazma becerisiyle ilişkilendirildiği tespit edilmiştir. İncelenen metinlerde Karagöz’ün söylediği sözlerin, sergilediği davranışların iletişimsizliğin önünde güçlü birer engel olmakla birlikte bu engelin, Hacivat’ın sahip olduğu yapıcı özellikler aracılığıyla aşıldığı, iletişimin zor şartlarda bile sürdürülebileceğini gösteren Karagöz-Hacivat metinlerinin okuyucuyu güldüren, eğlendiren birer mizah unsuruna dönüştüğü görülmektedir. Bu bakımdan Karagöz ile Hacivat'ın okuyucuyu yalnızca eğlendirmekle kalmadığı, iletişimsizlik yoluyla iletişim olgusuna dikkat çektiğini ve mizah duygusunun gelişmesine katkıda bulunduğunu söylemek mümkündür.
Bifunctional Inhibitors from Capsicum chinense Seeds with Antimicrobial Activity and Specific Mechanism of Action Against Phytopathogenic Fungi
Authors: da Silva Marciele Souza , Gomes Valdirene Moreira , Taveira Gabriel Bonan , de Azevedo dos Santos Layrana , Maracahipes Álan C. , Rodrigues Rosana , de Oliveira Carvalho André , Fernandes Katia Valevski S. , Oliveira Antonia Elenir A.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are found in the defense system in virtually
all life forms, being present in many, if not all, plant species.

Objective:

The present work evaluated the antimicrobial, enzymatic activity and mechanism of action
of the PEF2 fraction from Capsicum chinense Jack. seeds against phytopathogenic fungi.

Methods:

Peptides were extracted from C. chinense seeds and subjected to reverse-phase chromatography
on an HPLC system using a C18 column coupled to a C8 guard column, then the obtained
PEF2 fraction was rechromatographed using a C2/C18 column. Two fractions, named PEF2A
and PEF2B, were obtained. The fractions were tested for antimicrobial activity on Colletotrichum
gloeosporioides, Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium
solani. Trypsin inhibition assays, reverse zymographic detection of protease inhibition and α-amylase
activity assays were also performed. The mechanism of action by which PEF2 acts on filamentous
fungi was studied through analysis of membrane permeability and production of reactive oxygen
species (ROS). Additionally, we investigated mitochondrial functionality and caspase activation
in fungal cells.

Results:

It is possible to observe that PEF2 significantly inhibited trypsin activity and T. molitor
larval α-amylase activity. The PEF2 fraction was able to inhibit the growth of C. gloeosporioides,
C. lindemuthianum and F. oxysporum. PEF2A inhibited the growth of C. lindemuthianum (75%)
and F. solani (43%). PEF2B inhibited C. lindemuthianum growth (66%) and F. solani (94%). PEF2
permeabilized F. solani cell membranes and induced ROS in F. oxysporum and F. solani. PEF2
could dissipate mitochondrial membrane potential but did not cause the activation of caspases in
all studied fungi.

Conclusion:

The results may contribute to the biotechnological application of these AMPs in the
control of pathogenic microorganisms in plants of agronomic importance.
Cubosome: A Potential Liquid Crystalline Carrier System
Authors: Sharma Pragya , Dhawan Surbhi , Nanda Sanju
Published: June 2020

:

Cubosome is a biocompatible, thermodynamically stable and bioadhesive drug carrier that is prepared
from certain amphiphilic lipids and surfactants when mixed in a definite ratio. Structurally, they are selfassembled
nano-constructed liquid crystalline particles comprising three-dimensionally arranged bicontinuous as
well as nonintersecting lipid bilayers that give them a honeycomb-like appearance. Morphological characterization
through SAXS (small-angle X-ray scattering) and cryo-TEM (cryo-transmission electron microscopy) revealed
that they are square and round shaped particles in the nanometer range. These carriers have two separate
aqueous regions and a large interfacial area that allow them to carry a variety of bioactive molecules having hydrophobic,
hydrophilic or amphiphilic behavior.

:

One of either two strategies i.e., top-down or bottom-up methods can be adopted to prepare these cubic structures.
A number of dispersion techniques like sonication, spray drying, high-pressure homogenization or spontaneous
emulsification can be adopted to prepare cubosomes. Their characteristics and benefits like multicompartmental
structure, high drug loading, simple and convenient method of preparation, use of biodegradable lipids such as
glycerol monooleate, encapsulation of hydrophilic, hydrophobic and amphiphilic moieties, targeted and controlled
release make them versatile bioactive carriers that can be administered through multiple biological routes
like topical, transdermal, parenteral, and oral. Cubosomes have appreciable applications in various fields especially
in the pharmaceutical industry where they are used as potential bioactive carriers. Molecules like paclitaxel,
oligonucleotide, δ-amino-levulinic acid, bovine serum albumin, etc. can be easily delivered through this system.

:

This article provides a detailed note on the structure of cubosomes, ingredients and techniques used for their
preparation, mechanism of drug release, applications and routes of drug administration, their formulations, patent
review and market scenario.
PCSK9 Inhibitors for the Management of Dyslipidemia in People with Type 2 Diabetes: How Low is Too Low?
Authors: Felekos Ioannis , Karamasis Grigoris V. , Pavlidis Antonis N.
Published: June 2020

Diabetic patients are considered to be at high risk for the development of atherosclerotic disease. Management
of hypercholesterolemia is of paramount importance to optimize cardiovascular outcomes in this subset
of patients and statins are regarded as the mainstay of treatment. However, the recent advent of PCSK-9 inhibitors
has provided a useful alternative in the management of dyslipidemia, especially when statins cannot be
tolerated or when hypolipidemic targets cannot be achieved. In this review, we discuss current trends in their
use, and we focus on their role in the management of diabetic dyslipidemia.
Remarks on Computational Method for Identifying Acid and Alkaline Enzymes
Authors: Li Hongfei , Du Haoze , Wang Xianfang , Gao Peng , Liu Yifeng , Lin Weizhong
Published: June 2020

The catalytic efficiency of the enzyme is thousands of times higher than that of ordinary catalysts. Thus, they are widely used in industrial and medical fields. However, enzymes with protein structure can be destroyed and inactivated in high temperature, over acid or over alkali environment. It is well known that most of enzymes work well in an environment with pH of 6-8, while some special enzymes remain active only in an alkaline environment with pH > 8 or an acidic environment with pH < 6. Therefore, the identification of acidic and alkaline enzymes has become a key task for industrial production. Because of the wide varieties of enzymes, it is hard work to determine the acidity and alkalinity of the enzyme by experimental methods, and even this task cannot be achieved. Converting protein sequences into digital features and building computational models can efficiently and accurately identify the acidity and alkalinity of enzymes. This review summarized the progress of the digital features to express proteins and computational methods to identify acidic and alkaline enzymes. We hope that this paper will provide more convenience, ideas, and guides for computationally classifying acid and alkaline enzymes.
Triterpenoid and Saponin Rich Phytolacca dodecandra L’Herit (Endod): A Review on Its Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties
Authors: Desta Kebede Taye , Abd El-Aty A.M.
Published: June 2020

Phytolacca dodecandra L’Herit (Endod) is the most extensively studied plant among 35
known species in the genus Phytolacca (Family: Phytolaccaceae). The plant has been used as a viable
treatment for various ailments, such as malaria, rabies, ascariasis, and skin disorders, in many parts of
Africa. In Ethiopia, the dried and powdered Endod berries have been used for a long period of time as
a detergent to clean clothes. Since the discovery of the molluscicidal activities of its berries more than
five decades ago, P. dodecandra has been a research focus worldwide and several phytochemicals
mainly of triterpenoids and saponins were reported. Additionally, various biological activities, including
larvicidal, insecticidal, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities of its isolated
compounds and crude extracts were investigated. Furthermore, some of the findings from pharmacological
and phytochemical investigations were patented to be used in various medicinal formulations.
The plant is still the subject of many investigations and hence, a thorough up-to-date review is required
to provide comprehensive information needed for future exploitation of the plant. In this review, the
phytochemical compositions and pharmacological activities are comprehensively addressed and discussed
in details.
Repurposing of RdRp Inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 through Molecular Docking Tools
Authors: Bhatia Rohit , Narang Raj Kumar , Rawal Ravindra Kumar
Published: June 2020

In the present hour, the COVID-19 pandemic needs no introduction. There is continuous and
keen research in progress in order to discover or develop a suitable therapeutic candidate/vaccine against
the fatal, severe acute respiratory syndrome causing coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Drug repurposing is an
approach of utilizing the therapeutic potentials of previously approved drugs against some new targets or
pharmacological responses. In the presented work, we have evaluated the RNA dependent RNA polymerase
(RdRp) inhibitory potentials of FDA approved anti-viral drugs remdesivir, ribavirin, sofosbuvir
and galidesivir through molecular docking. The studies were carried out using MOE 2019.0102 software
against RdRp (PDB ID:7BTF, released on 8th April, 2020). All four drugs displayed good docking
scores and significant binding interactions with the amino acids of the receptor. The docking protocol
was validated by redocking of the ligands and the root mean square deviation (RMSD) value was found
to be less than 2. The 2D and 3D binding patterns of the drugs were studied and evaluated with the help
of poses. The drugs displayed excellent hydrogen bonding interactions within the cavity of the receptor
and displayed comparable docking scores. These drugs may serve as new therapeutic candidates or leads
against SARS-CoV-2.