bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of midazolam administration to control blood pressure in patients diagnosed with ‘Hypertensive crisis’: a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Khorsand Mohammad Reza , Enayatrad Mostafa , Yekesadat Seyed Meysam , Khodayar Maryam , Noyani Amir
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Hypertensive crisis defines as a sudden rise in blood pressure that can adversely affect the vital organs. As such, it is recommended to take midazolam to lower the blood pressure in patients of hypertensive crisis. This study aims to investigate the midazolam efficacy as an emergency care to control the blood pressure in patients diagnosed with hypertensive crisis.
Methods

The current paper represents a double-blinded clinical trial study that examines the patients of the hypertensive crisis who referred to Imam Hossein Hospital of Shahroud, 2018. Patients with systolic/diastolic blood pressure greater than 180/110 mm Hg and with healthy vital organs were selected randomly and divided into three groups of 43 participants. All patients’ blood pressure in both arms, and after a period of 10 minutes in the left arm, was checked and was checked again after administering the medication for 4 times of 15 minutes till 1 hour complete. IBM SPSS Amos 23 was implemented. One-way ANOVA, Chi-Square and Repeated measure tests were performed to carry out statistical analysis. The level of significance of 0.05 was considered.
Results

in the group of midazolam, it was observed a reduction of 20.6% (P = 0.024), 17.4% (P = 0.001), and 19.1% (P = 0.009) for the systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and blood pressure average, respectively. In such case, it was also indicated to be a significant difference of the reduction before and after the treatment. The group of captopril showed a decrease of 19.9% (P = 0.001), 13.5% (P = 0.008), and 16.7% (P = 0.001) for the systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and blood pressure average, respectively. It was also observed to be a significant difference in reducing the blood pressure before and after the treatment. The group of midazolam and captopril showed the greatest reduction of blood pressure before, in the middle, and after carrying out the treatment methods. As such, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and the blood pressure average changed to the reduction of 23.5% (P = 0.047), 17.4% (P = 0.021), and 20.5% (P = 0.031), respectively. No significant difference was observed among these three groups (P = 0.239).
Midterm Results of Mitral Valve Repair for Atrial Functional Mitral Regurgitation: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kaneyuki Daisuke , Nakajima Hiroyuki , Asakura Toshihisa , Yoshitake Akihiro , Tokunaga Chiho , Tochii Masato , Hayashi Jun , Takazawa Akitoshi , Izumida Hiroaki , Iguchi Atsushi
Published: June 2020

Background: Annular dilation by left atrial remodeling is considered the main cause of atrial function mitral regurgitation. Although acceptable outcomes have been obtained using mitral ring annuloplasty alone for atrial functional mitral regurgitation, data assessing outcomes of this procedure are limited. Therefore, we aimed to assess midterm outcomes of mitral valve repair in patients with atrial functional mitral regurgitation.Methods: We retrospectively studied 40 patients (mean age: 69 ± 9 years) who had atrial fibrillation that persisted for >1 year, preserved left ventricular ejection fraction of >40%, and mitral valve repair for atrial functional mitral regurgitation. The mean clinical follow-up duration was 42 ± 24 months.Results: Mitral ring annuloplasty was performed for all patients. Additional repair including anterior mitral leaflet neochordoplasty was performed for 22 patients. Concomitant procedures included maze procedure in 20 patients and tricuspid ring annuloplasty in 31 patients. Follow-up echocardiography showed significant decreases in left atrial dimensions and left ventricular end-diastolic dimensions. Recurrent mitral regurgitation due to ring detachment or leaflet tethering was observed in five patients and was seen more frequently among those with preoperative left ventricular dilatation. Three patients without tricuspid ring annuloplasty or sinus rhythm recovery by maze procedure developed significant tricuspid regurgitation. Five patients who underwent the maze procedure showed sinus rhythm recovery. Rates of freedom from re-admission for heart failure at 1 and 5 years after surgery were 95% and 86%, respectively. Conclusions: Mitral valve repair is not sufficient to prevent recurrent atrial functional mitral regurgitation in patients with preoperative left ventricular dilatation. Tricuspid ring annuloplasty may be required for long-term prevention of significant tricuspid regurgitation.
Expression and gene regulation network of EAF2 in cervical cancer based on data mining
Authors: Kong Wei na , Guo Fan , Feng Yang chun , Lv Jie , Fan Jia hui , Wang Yue , Zhao Gang , Wu Hui li , Ai Le , Ma Xiu min
Published: June 2020

Background: ELL-associated factor 2 (EAF2) plays an important role in transcription elongation and the regulation of gene expression in both mammalian cells as well as in lower eukaryotes concurrent . EAF2’s depletion has been demonstrated to enhance cell proliferation and greatly increase the risk of cancer. However, little is known about the expression and function of EAF2 in cervical cancer (CC) progression. Here, we comprehensively analyzed the expression of EAF2 and its clinical outcome in CC using publicly available cancer gene expression and patient survival data through various databases.Methods: We examined the differences of EAF2 expression between cancers and their normal tissues using the Oncomine, Gene expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2), the Gene Expression across Normal and Tumor tissue 2 (GENT2) database and UALCAN databases. EAF2 expression was investigated from immunohistochemistry images using the Human Protein Atlas database. Copy number alterations (CNAs) and mutations of EAF2 were analyzed using cBioPortal. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to predict the survival of EAF2 in CC. Analysis of the co-expression profile of EAF2 and the enrichment pathway of co-expression with EAF2 were revealed using LinkedOmics to explore the predicted signaling pathways. GeneMANIA visualize the gene networks and predict function of genes that GSEA identified as being enriched in CC: kinase LYN, mi-RNA133A, 133B and transcription factor OCT1. Results: We found that the expression of EAF2 decreased with the development of CC and significant upregulation of EAF2 is positively correlated with the overall survival (OS) of CC patients. The decrease of EAF2 gene expression may be partly due to promoter methylation and CNAs with the development of CC. Besides, EAF2 expression might be strongly positively correlated with the expression of IQCB1, ILDR1 and ASTE1, and may contribute to a signaling pathway in CC. Conclusion: Decreased EAF2 expression has negative clinical significance in the development of CC through the regulation of methylation, CNAs and related pathways. This suggests that EAF2 has potential as a therapeutic target for CC. Keywords: EAF2; cervical cancer; patient survival; clinical outcomes; cancer progression; multiomics analysis
Ninjurin 2 rs118050317 gene polymorphism and endometrial cancer risk
Authors: Cheng Yimin , Yang Liting , Shi Guangyao , Chen Peng , Li Liang , Fang Hangrong , Chen Chao
Published: June 2020

Background: Endometrial cancer is one of the most common female reproductive system tumors. As a vascular susceptibility gene, Ninjurin2 (NINJ2) may involve in endometrial carcinogenesis. We conducted an association analysis between NINJ2 gene polymorphism and endometrial cancer risk.Methods: Five SNPs rs118050317, rs75750647, rs7307242, rs10849390 and rs11610368 of NINJ2 gene were genotyped in 351 endometrial cancer patients and 344 healthy controls. The clinical index difference between cases and controls were tested by one-way analysis of variance. The allele and genotype frequency of cases and controls were been compared by Chi-square test. The odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were examined by logistic regression analysis.Results: The SNP rs118050317 mutant allele C and homozygote CC genotype were significant increased the endometrial cancer risk (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.04 – 2.06, p = 0.028; OR = 8.43, 95% CI = 1.05 – 67.89, p = 0.045). In the clinical index analysis, there were significant higher quantities of CEA, CA125 and AFP in cases serum than controls.Conclusion: The NINJ2 gene polymorphism loci rs118050317 mutant allele C was associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer. CEA, CA125 and AFP quantities were significant higher in endometrial cancer patients.
Increased expression of UBE2T predicting poor survival of ovarian cancer: based on comprehensive analysis of UBE2s, clinical samples and the GEO database
Authors: Zou Ruoyao , Xu Haoya , Li Feifei , Wang Shengke , Zhu Liancheng
Published: June 2020

Background： Ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes E2 (UBE2) have been reported in the microenvironment of various malignant tumors, but their correlation with ovarian cancer remains elusive.Methods: The Oncomine, GEPIA, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, cBioPortal, and STRING databases were used to systematically analyze the expression pattern, prognostic value, genetic variation, and biological function of 12 members of the UBE2 gene family in ovarian cancer. UBE2T exhibited the greatest correlation with ovarian cancer and was thus further examined. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), as well as analyses of function and pathway enrichment, somatic mutations, copy number variation, and methylation were performed, and the correlation with immune cell infiltration was examined to explore the mechanism underlying aberrant UBE2T expression. Finally, the expression and prognostic value of UBE2T in ovarian cancer were verified by immunohistochemical evaluation of 131 clinical ovarian samples and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (GSE51088, GSE73614, and GSE63885 datasets) analysis.Results: The mRNA levels of UBE2C , UBE2N , UBE2S , and UBE2T were significantly upregulated in ovarian cancer compared with those in normal ovarian tissue. In patients with ovarian serous carcinoma, UBE2A , UBE2B , UBE2C , UBE2G , and UBE2T upregulation and UBE2R2 downregulation were associated with poor overall survival. Moreover, UBE2A , UBE2N , and UBE2T upregulation and UBE2G and UBE2R2 downregulation were associated with poor progression-free survival. Immunohistochemistry revealed that UBE2T was significantly upregulated in ovarian malignant tumors compared with that in borderline tumors, benign tumors, and normal ovarian tissues, and its high expression was associated with poor prognosis. The Cox model showed that UBE2T upregulation was an independent risk factor affecting the prognosis of ovarian cancer (hazard ratio: 4.095, P= 0.029). The above results were verified in the GEO database. In addition, UBE2T was associated with specific immune cells and mainly involved in cell cycle-related events. Genomic analysis showed that TP53 and TTN mutations were associated with UBE2T expression. Gene copy number amplification and hypomethylation may be responsible for UBE2T upregulation in ovarian cancer.Conclusions: UBE2 family members may play a role in the development of ovarian cancer. Specifically, UBE2T could serve as a new prognostic marker and therapeutic target for this disease.
Polymorphisms in FCGR2A (131H/R) and FCGR2B (232I/T) are associated with the development of inhibitors in Chinese hemophilia A patients
Authors: Qu Hong , Chen Yongfang , Zeng Wenjing , Huang Xiaohua , Cheng Shuqin
Published: June 2020

Background: Present study was to explore the association between gene polymorphisms in Fc gamma receptor IIa (FCGR2A) and Iib (FCGR2B) and factor VIII (FVIII) inhibitor development in patients with hemophili A (HA) in a Chinese Han population.Methods: FCGR2A (131H/R) and FCGR2B (232I/T) polymorphsims were genotyped using PCR and direct sequencing method in 108 HA patients, including 23 cases with inhibitors and 85 without inhibitors. Chi-square (c2) test was applied to compare the genotype and allele frequencies between two groups. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were calculated to indicate the relative susceptibility of HA.Results: FCGR2A 131RH genotype frequency had a significantly increased trend in inhibitor group compared with the non-inhibitor group, suggesting a momentous role of 131H/R polymorphism for inhibitor development in HA patients. Individuals carrying 131RH genotype showed higher risk to be attacked by the inhibitor development in HA patients (OR=4.929; 95%CI=1.029-23.605). However, there were no significant differences of FCGR2B (232I/T) polymorphism genotype and allele frequencies between inhibitor and non-inhibitor groups.Conclusion: FCGR2A (131H/R) was in relation to the susceptibility of FVIII inhibitors development in HA patients.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00968 inhibits proliferation, migration and invasion of lung adenocarcinoma through targeting miR-22-5p / CDC14A axis
Authors: Wu Chao , Bian Xuzhao , Zhang Liyuan , Wu Yang , Pei Tianli , Han Xinpeng
Published: June 2020

Background
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a high aggressive human cancer which usually diagnosed at advanced stages. Accumulating evidences indicate that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial participants in LUAD progression.
Methods
The mRNA levels of LINC00968, miR-22-5p and cell division cycle 14A (CDC14A) were measured using quantitative real-time PCR. Cell proliferation was evaluated using cell counting kit-8 and flow cytometry. Cell migration and cell invasion were assessed by wound healing and transwell assay, respectively. The interactions between LINC00968 and miR-22-5p were validated by RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pull down and luciferase reporter assay.
Results
We found that lncRNA LINC00968 was significantly down-regulated in LUAD tissues and cell lines. LINC00968 level was positively correlated to survival rate, and negatively correlated to tumor node metastasis stage, tumor size and lymph node metastasis of LUAD patients. LINC00968 over-expression in LUAD cells inhibited cell proliferation and induced cell cycle arrest at G1 phase. LINC00968 over-expression also suppressed migration, invasion and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) as evidenced by elevated E-cadherin, decreased N-cadherin, TWIST and SNAIL levels. We further validated that LINC00968 localized in cytoplasma and acted as an upstream of microRNA miR-22-5p, which was up-regulated in LUAD tissues and cell lines. Besides, elevated miR-22-5p expression abolished the effect of LINC00968 over-expression on LUAD progression including in vivo tumor growth. In addition, we first validated that cell division cycle 14A (CDC14A), which was down-regulated in LUAD tissues, was a downstream target of miR-22-5p. We over-expressed CDC14A in LUAD cells and miR-22-5p induced LUAD progression was partially reversed.
Conclusion
our study demonstrated that LINC00968 inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of LUAD by sponging miR-22-5p and further restoring CDC14A. This novel regulatory network might provide us with promising diagnostic and therapeutic target in LUAD treatment.
SMP30 Regulates HCC Cell Migration via Affecting the Expression of MMPs and Binding to ROCK1
Authors: zheng shunxin , Zhuang Yuan , Mo Zhijing , Li Xiaolong , Lv Zhilue , Zhou Sufang
Published: June 2020

Background: SMP30, as a calmodulin, is differentially expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma（HCC） tissues and adjacent tissues. Previous studies have indicated that the expression of SMP30 is closely related to the prognosis of patients with HCC. However, little is known about the detailed role of SMP30 on HCC. Methods: The SMP30 overexpression and silenced cell lines were constructed through lentivirus transfection，the effects of SMP30 on migration and invasion of HCC were observed by Transwell assay. Then subcloned cell line with different migration abilities were undergone four rounds of screening from SMP30 overexpressing cell lines, and the transcriptome and proteome were detected and analyzed. The interactions of proteins with SMP30 were validated by AP-MS and COIP-WB techniques. Results: High expression of SMP30 can effectively inhibit the migration and invasion of HCC, but has no significant effect on cell proliferation and cell cycle. The cell lines with higher metastatic abilities have significantly higher calcium ion concentrations than those with lower metastatic abilities and higher expression of MMP9, MMP14 and MMP15 proteins. There is an interaction between SMP30 and tumor metastasis-related protein ROCK1, which reduces the phosphorylation level of cytoskeleton-related MLC protein. The SMP30 regulatesthe downstream molecule MLC protein phosphorylation and affects the formation of cytoskeletal structure. Conclusion: On the one hand, SMP30 regulates the expression of MMPs protein by regulating the Ca2 + concentration; on the other hand, SMP30 affects the phosphorylation level of MLC protein by interacting with ROCK1 protein. The combined effect of the two aspects inhibits the metastatic ability of HCC.
Increased Portal Vein Diameter is Predictive of Portal Vein Thrombosis Development in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Dong Gang , Huang Xiaoquan , Zhu Yuli , Ding Hong , Li Feng , Chen Shiyao
Published: June 2020

Background: Cirrhotic patients with portal vein thrombosis (PVT) may have a high risk of hepatic decompensation and increased mortality. This study aimed to investigate if increased portal vein diameter is associated with PVT development.Methods: A total of 174 cirrhotic patients were enrolled between February 1 and August 31, 2017. All participants were divided into PVT (n=62) and non-PVT (n=112) groups based on the thrombus that was detected by ultrasonography and confirmed by computed tomography angiography (CTA).Results: The study participants, aged 54.7±10.5 years (PVT) and 55.8±11.6 years (non‑PVT), were included in this analysis. The Child-Pugh score of PVT or non‑PVT was 6.6±1.3 and 5.8±0.9, respectively. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the primary etiological agent of cirrhosis. Logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic (ROC), and nomograph analysis designated portal diameter as the strongest independent risk factor for predicting PVT development (odds ratio (OR): 3.96, area under the ROC curve (AUC): 0.88;P<0.01), and the cutoff with predictive value for PVT development was >12.5 mm. No differences were observed in the overall survival (OS) in cirrhosis with or without PVT or stratifying on portal diameter based on the cutoff value.Conclusions: Increased portal diameter is associated with an increased risk of PVT development. Patients with cirrhosis and increased portal diameter are a high-risk subgroup that may need thromboprophylaxis.
Composition and function of rhizosphere microbiome of Panax notoginseng with discrepant yields
Authors: Li Mengzhi , Chen Zhongjian , Qian Jun , Wei Fugang , Zhang Guozhuang , Wang Yong , Wei Guangfei , Hu Zhigang , Dong Linlin , Chen Shilin
Published: June 2020

Background
Panax notoginseng is a highly valuable medicinal plant. Reduced P. notoginseng yield is a common and serious problem that arises in a continuous cropping system. Variation in the composition and function of soil microbial community is considered the primary cause of yield reduction.
Methods
This study used shotgun metagenomic sequencing approaches to describe the taxonomic and functional features of P. notoginseng rhizosphere microbiome and screen microbial taxa and functional traits related to yields.
Results
A total of 43 families and 45 genera (relative abundance > 0.1%) were further confirmed to be related to P. notoginseng yields. Nitrosomonadaceae, Xanthomonadaceae, Mycobacterium and Arthrobacter that were enriched in soils with higher yields were positively correlated with P. notoginseng yields, thereby suggesting that they might increase yields. Negative correlation coefficients indicated that Xanthobacteraceae, Caulobacteraceae, Oxalobacteraceae, Chitinophagaceae, Sphingomonas, Hyphomicrobium, Variovorax and Phenylobacterium might be detrimental to P. notoginseng growth. A total of 85 functional traits were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with P. notoginseng yields. Functional traits, likely steroid biosynthesis and MAPK signaling pathway were positively correlated with P. notoginseng yields. In contrast, functional traits, such as bacterial secretion system, ABC transporters, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450 and drug metabolism–cytochrome P450, were negatively associated with yields.
Conclusions
This study describes an overview of the rhizosphere microbiome of P. notoginseng with discrepant yields and confirms the taxa and functional traits related to yields. Our results provide valuable information to guide the isolation and culture of potentially beneficial microorganisms and to utilize the power of the microbiome to increase plant yields in a continuous cropping system.
Determinants of Food Safety Knowledge among University Students in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ullah Azmat , Ahmad Waqas , Saeed Farhan , Sohaib Muhammad , Shahbaz Hafiz Muhammad , Arshad Muhammad Sajid , Anjum Faqir M
Published: June 2020

Background

Foodborne diseases are among the most serious public health problems and young adults are an important target group as they often engage in risky food handling practices. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of food safety knowledge and its determinants among Pakistani university students.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students during the academic year 2018-2019. A convenient sample of 1417 students completed a structured questionnaire containing forty-four questions on food safety and hygiene.

Results

Overall, participants showed a moderate level of food safety knowledge with a mean percentage score of 62.5±8.4. Students had a good level of knowledge about causes of foodborne diseases (66.3±16.9). However, the lowest level of knowledge was identified in foodborne diseases' symptoms (55.2±14.3). In general, females and participants from health-related degree program scored significantly higher (p<0.01) in all knowledge sections than their counterparts. A significant association was found between the causes of foodborne diseases and postgraduate students being more knowledgeable (p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, gender, academic degree program, level of education, and father's education were significant predictors of overall food safety knowledge.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that university students have a moderate knowledge in food safety. Educational interventions and awareness programs are needed to strengthen the existing knowledge.
Presumed Sympathetic Ophthalmia After Scleral Buckling Surgery: Case Report
Authors: Hosseini Seyedeh Maryam , Shoeibi Nasser , Zadeh Mahdieh Azimi , Ghasemi Mahdi , Abrishami Mojtaba
Published: June 2020

Background: We aimed to report a rare case of presumed sympathetic ophthalmia (SO) in a young female patient following scleral buckling (SB). As SB is usually considered an extraocular operation, it is presumed to have low risk of SO.Case Presentation: A nineteen year-old female patient was referred for visual loss in her left eye because of macula off inferior longstanding rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD). Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/400 in the left eye. SB with 360 degrees encircling band and inferior segmental tire, with one spot cryoretinopexy at the break site and subretinal fluid drainage was performed. One week after operation, visual acuity was improved to 20/80 and retina was totally attached. Six weeks later, patient came with severe visual loss in both eyes as counting finger 1 meter. Bilateral multifocal serous RD and vitreous cells was found. The patient was treated with intravenous corticosteroid pulse therapy and mycpphenolate mofetile as a case of sympathetic ophthalmia. The inflammation was controlled and serous RD resolved after five days intravenous treatment and was not relapsed after six months. BCVA was 20/20 in right eye and 20/50 in the left eye. Systemic workup was negative for any extraocular disease or systemic involvement.Conclusion: As SB usually considered as a procedure without manipulating intraocular tissues, it is considered to have low risk for SO. In this report, we have shown that SO may occur after successful SB. Inciting the choroid and retinal pigment epithelium with cryoretinopexy or perforating for drainage may induce SO.
Historical and legal aspects of medical human development
Authors: Harust Yu.V. , Pavlenko B.O.
Published: June 2020

The history of medicine and the history of mankind have a common long-standing past. In this article, based on our thorough and thorough research, we highlight the historical and legal foundations of the development of medicine and humanity. We began our research precisely from the earliest times (the Neanderthals, who lived about 350-35 thousand years ago), that is, from the time of human birth. Based on the analysis of the results of archaeological, anthropological studies and historical sources, we have legally proved that, from the earliest stages of human development, medicine existed alongside the primordial person.
Humanity has evolved, and so has medicine. Quite meaningfully, we have explored ancient Egyptian medicine, which is the oldest of the officially documented medical systems that existed from the XXXIII century BC. BC to 525 BC It was the most advanced for its time and even included simple non-invasive surgery, fracture treatments and a large set of pharmacopoeia. Ancient Egyptian medicine influenced many of the following medical systems of the Ancient World, including the Greek. Researching the state of medicine in Ancient Egypt, we came to the conclusion that treatment not only helped people, but sometimes, on the contrary, greatly harmed the health of patients. For example, many recipes include the mandatory use of manure, which contains fermentation products and mold, which is very dangerous for the body. However, despite these negative results, we can say that medical practice in ancient Egypt was quite advanced. The Egyptians understood that the disease needed to be treated with pharmaceuticals, and sometimes to undergo surgery. The study of this period has made it possible to conclude that medicine develops inseparably in connection with human development, and society uses the acquired medical knowledge for its own well-being. The study of the development of medicine and humanity of ancient India, gives reason to argue that due to advanced medical education, society has come to the conclusion that medicine is a component of human life and the key to its development and continuation. It was during this period that humanity moved to a new stage of health care when control of medicine by the state came to light. It is in India that public institutions have begun to consider the medical sector one of the main tools for ensuring the well-being of citizens. And in ancient China, medicine gained state support and became the basis for the development of society on a par with religion. Medical education received a tremendous boost. The knowledge given to the world of medicine by the doctors of Ancient Greece, led by Hippocrates, became the basis of all modern practical medicine.
The results obtained in our study, based on historical facts, prove that medicine originated with the appearance of man and subsequently existed and evolved with the development of man.
Keywords: history, humanity, medicine, medical activities, medical education.
Leptospirosis in swine in the light of accepted characterization
Authors: PEJSAK ZYGMUNT , TRUSZCZYŃSKI MARIAN , ARENT ZBIGNIEW
Published: June 2020

The publication is presenting changes in epidemiology and economic importance of leptospirosis in swine. During the fifties or even earlier or later of the twenty century this disease in swine was causing remarkable losses occurring worldwide. During the end of the twenty century and during the twenty first century the importance of leptospirosis of swine has decreased, being restricted to Argentina, Brasil, Northern Hemisphere, Northern Australia and New Zealand. In Europe, including Poland, endemic, very often symptomless infection or presentation of reproductive failer as abortion, stillbirth, the birth of weak piglets, reduced viability was demonstrated. Other symptoms and pathological changes, if developed were similar do occurring also in other infectious diseases of swine and did not present diagnostic value for swine leptospirosis. Therfore for diagnosis of swine leptospirosis, laboratory tests have to be used. This publication is mentioning as the prescribed and most widely used microscopic agglutination test (MAT), and as alternative the competitive ELISA. For detection and identification of nucleic acids of leptospira serovars the PCR is recommended. Control of leptospirosis in swine is dependent on the combined use of antibiotics, vaccination and management. However antibiotics are in many countries prohibited for use, against leptospirosis of swine. Vaccines are very seldom available and theirs used is not on satisfied level. Management is difficult to perform and economically in many cases not respected
Effect of the tumbling process and kappa-carrageenan usage on the quality characteristics of meat loaf
Authors: TELLI NIHAT , TELLI ARIFE EZGI , BIÇER YUSUF , CEBIRBAY MUHAMMET ALI , TEKINŞEN KEMAL KAAN , KÖSEOĞLU İSMAIL ERIM , GÜNER AHMET
Published: June 2020

In this study the authors aimed to determine the effects of the tumbling process and carrageenan usage on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of meat loaves, which are uncommon in Turkey and only produced at a sub-industrial level. The meat loaves were produced from beef (rib and chuck regions) and layer hen meat and partitioned equally into three groups. The first group served as a control group, whereas the second and third groups were processed by tumbling for 1 and 2 h, respectively. The tumbling programme involved 20 millibar pressure, with 3 min of operation and 1 min of stoppage. After tumbling, each group was divided into two equal parts, followed by the addition of 1% carrageenan to one part of each. This production was repeated, and the meat loaves were stored at 4°C. Physicochemical, microbiological and sensory analyses of the final products were performed on the 0th, 3rd, 7th, 12th and 15th day of storage for assessing the product quality. The utilisation of carrageenan increased the beef and chicken meat loaves by 0.69% and 1.85%, respectively. The carrageenan reduced cooking loss by an average of 5% relative to the control group. The cutting and sensory properties of the groups produced by both tumbling and the addition of carrageenan exhibit higher scores than the other groups (P < 0.05). The average of the pH, aw, salt%, dry matter%, ash% and fat% in the beef meat loaves are 6.26, 0.938, 0.988, 31.52, 2.30 and 4.64, respectively, whereas corresponding values for chicken meat loaves are 6.26, 0.927, 1.23, 35.80, 2.18 and 7.38, respectively for the control groups. Yeast-mould growth was absent in all samples, containing 2.90-6.05 log10 CFU/g TMAB, 2.00-4.27 log10 CFU/g Micrococcus–Staphylococcus and 0-3.62 log10 CFU/g Enterobacteriaceae.
Effect of slaughter age and muscle type on selected meat quality traits and fatty acid composition of Lindovskaya geese
Authors: AKBAŞ AYKUT ASIM , SARI MEHMET , KULEAŞAN ŞÜKRAN , BUĞDAYCI KADIR EMRE , SAATCI MUSTAFA
Published: June 2020

The study was conducted in order to determine how the slaughter age (SA) and muscle type (MT) affect technological properties and fatty acid composition (FAC) of meat among Linda geese reared under the breeder conditions. A total of 16 male geese were slaughtered in order to determine the technological properties and FAC of meat. It was determined that the effect of SA on pH15 and pH24 (TM), water holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss (CL), and drip loss (DL) of the thigh muscle was all statistically significant (P < 0.05). The effect of SA on pH24, WHC, CL, and the 168th-hour DL of pectoral muscle (PM), was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Moreover, the effect of MT on pH15, pH24, WHC, CL and DL in the 12th week and on pH15, pH24, WHC and DL in the 16th week was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). Additionally, the effect of SA on monounsaturated fatty acid (ΣMUFA) of TM and polyunsaturated fatty acid (ΣPUFA) of PM and Σω-6 ratios was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Consequently, it was concluded that SA was better in the 12th week than the 16th week and PM was better than TM. The 16-week TM was better in terms of ΣMUFA, the 12-week PM was better in terms of ΣPUFA and Σω-6, and the 12-week TM was better in terms of Σω-3 amount and ω-6/ω-3 ratio. Therefore, it can be recommended that 12-week-old Linda geese be selected in terms of selected meat traits and FAC of meat.
Effect of activated clinoptilolite and inactive brewer’s yeast mixture on loin eye muscle and body indexes in fattening period
Authors: ESEN SELIM , KARADAG HARUN , KAPTAN CUNEYT , ESECELI HUSEYIN
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted to determine the effects of dietary activated clinoptilolite and inactive brewer’s yeast mixture (CBY) on the loin eye muscle (MLD) and body indexes. For this purpose, a total of 48 Kivircik male lambs at the weaning age of 62 ± 4 days and with the initial live weight of 23.80 ± 3.19 kg were randomly allocated to one control group (CON) and three treatments groups (namely CBY-Ι, CBY-ΙΙ, and CBY-ΙΙΙ), each containing 12 lambs. 0, 1, 3, and 5 g/kg of CBY were added to the diets, respectively, as fed basis. The trial lasted for 63 days, of which 7 days were spent for adaptation to the diets and 56 days for the data collection. All the animals received 150 g of chopped alfalfa hay and their specifically formulated experimental diets ad libitum. There was no significant difference between the treatments in terms of MLD depth and fat thickness (FT) (p > 0.05). The addition of 3 and 5 g/kg CBY to the lamb diets increased the MLD depth (+1.87% in CBY-ΙΙ and +4.67% in CBY-ΙΙΙ) and decreased the FT (–13.29% in CBY-ΙΙ). Furthermore, a significant difference was observed between the treatments in terms of index of height (IH) (p < 0.05). It was concluded that adding 3 g/kg CBY to the lamb diets to increase the MLD depth, decrease the FT, and improve the body indexes may have some economic benefits in the fattening period.
Improved dynamic simulation technique for hydrodynamics and water quality of river-connected lakes
Authors: Liu Bojun , Xia Jun , Yang Libin , Cui Changyong , Wang Linwei , Li Tiansheng
Published: June 2020

In this study, a two-dimensional hydrodynamic water-quality model is proposed for river-connected lakes in an effort to improve calibration accuracy and reduce computational burden. To achieve this, the sensitivity of parameters involved in the hydrodynamic model is analyzed using stepwise rank regression and Latin hypercube sampling (LHS), and the roughness coefficient, wind drag coefficient and wind resistance coefficient are identified as the most important parameters affecting the hydrodynamics of the Hongze Lake. Then, the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is used to assimilate observations to the proposed hydrodynamic and water quality model. It is found that assimilation of both state variables and model parameters results in a significant improvement of the simulation of the water level, flow velocity and pollutant concentration in the Hongze Lake.
Integrated allocation model of water quantity and quality and its application in the Yellow River
Authors: Zhou Ke
Published: June 2020

Taking a typical reach of the Yellow River as the research object, using decomposition, coordination, coupling and control technology and through real-time data transmission and feedback, the simultaneous coupling of water quantity and quality is realized. Based on the identification parameters of water intake, section discharge and water quality index in the water function areas, the on-line identification and process control of the allocation target are realized, and an integrated model of water quantity and quality with the functions of cycle iteration, on-line feedback and rolling correction is established. Taking the natural runoff from 1956 to 2000 as input and the water demand and sewage discharge from the upper reaches of the Yellow River in 2015 as an example and through optimization, an integrated water quantity and quality allocation scheme for the typical reach of the Yellow River is put forward. It is shown that the model can realize the integrated allocation of water quantity and quality in the Yellow River.
Trends of Mortalities and Morbidities due to COVID-19, from Explosiveness to Aggressiveness, Gaps in System Response, and Transmission Chain
Authors: Hussain Hamid Yahya , Salim Nezar Ahmed , Baderkhan Bushra , Hamid Mohamed , Hamid Abdulla , Chehab Fouad Hussein , Al Qawasmeh Khaled H. A. , Tuffaha Mohammed
Published: June 2020

Background:

Due to the high prevalence and wide distribution of coronaviruses, their large genetic diversity, frequent recombination of their genomes, and
increasing human-animal interface activities, novel coronaviruses are likely to emerge periodically in humans owing to frequent cross-species
infections and occasional spillover event.

Objectives:

The aim of this research is to study the short-term morbidities, mortalities and trends of international spread of the COVID-19 outbreak. In
addition, to study the explosiveness and aggressiveness of the outbreak and the gaps in response.

Methodology:

Outbreak events were observed and followed up over two months. This study used daily statistical reports issued by the World Health
Organization, as well as data from different national authorities, regarding mortalities and morbidities from all over the world, with a specific focus
on Chinese statistics as the main source of the outbreak.

Results:

The current study showed that the number of confirmed COVID-19 infected cases started with 41 cases in early January 2020. The number of
cases with COVID-19 kept rising to reach 128000 on March 12, 2020. Moreover, the current study has revealed that the number of deaths was only
(1) case in early January 2020 and increased to 25 deaths on January 23, and end up with 170 deaths by the end of January. Deaths have
dramatically increased to reach 2462 on Feb 23 and 4717 on March 12. In regards to the geographical spread of the COVID-19 infection outbreak,
the number of affected countries increased to 100 by mid- March 2020. The number of fatality cases was 0.0368, compared to 0.533 in recovered
cases within two months.

Conclusion:

The natural history and course of the current outbreak revealed a highly explosive nature linked to considerable aggressiveness in terms of
complications and mortalities, within only two months, and spread to 100 countries worldwide with 80000 cases within only two months. The
study forecasted that the peak of the outbreak is not yet attained, and events that are more dramatic may occur worldwide.
Therapeutic Options for Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia: The Role of Lomitapide
Authors: Giammanco Antonina , Cefalù Angelo B. , Noto Davide , Averna Maurizio R.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Lomitapide (Juxtapid® in US and Lojuxta® in Europe) is the first developed inhibitor of the Microsomal Triglyceride Transfer Protein (MTP) approved as a novel drug for the management of Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). It acts by binding directly and selectively to MTP thus decreasing the assembly and secretion of the apo-B containing lipoproteins both in the liver and in the intestine.

Aims:

The present review aims at summarizing the recent knowledge on lomitapide in the management of HoFH.

Results:

The efficacy and safety of lomitapide have been evaluated in several trials and it has been shown a reduction of the plasma levels of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) by an average of more than 50%. Although the most common side effects are gastrointestinal and liver events, lomitapide presents generally with a good tolerability and satisfactory patients compliance. Recently, in Europe, to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of lomitapide, the LOWER registry (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02135705) has been established in order to acquire informations on HoFH lomitapidetreated patients from “real life” clinical practice.

:

Furthermore, the observation that lomitapide decreases triglyceride levels may be considered for patients affected by severe forms of hypertriglyceridemia who undergo recurrent episodes of pancreatitis and are poor responders to conventional treatment.

Conclusion:

Lomitapide represents an innovative and efficacious drug for the treatment of HoFH. Longterm safety data, treatment of pediatric and pregnant HoFH patients and management of severe hypertriglyceridemia still require further investigations.
A Review on Emerging Drug Targets in Treatment of Schizophrenia
Authors: Ved Hemen S. , Doshi Gaurav M.
Published: June 2020

Schizophrenia is a multifactorial, highly complex behavioral and cognitive disorder caused
by disruptions of neurotransmitters in the brain, consequently affecting its functioning. The disorder is
known to affect approximately 1% of the adult population worldwide. Antipsychotics used in the
treatment have considerable drawbacks as they primarily aim to alleviate the positive symptoms of
different aspects of the disorder and fail to treat the negative and cognitive symptoms. Considering the
poor functional outcome of conventional antipsychotic therapy, the recent development of effective
targets is of clinical importance. In this review, we summarize perspective on recent approaches and
advances on schizophrenia. New therapeutically potential compounds for the treatment of schizophrenia
act on metabotropic glutamate receptor, Matrix metalloproteinase, endocannabinoid receptor, nicotinic
acetylcholine receptor, muscarinic acetylcholine cholinergic receptor and Dynorphin /Kappa
Opioid receptor systems. This review explores the functions of different receptors other than dopaminergic
systems to treat and manage schizophrenia effectively. The article would provide readers
guidance on newer targets related to schizophrenia.
A Review of Phytochemical and Pharmacological Studies of Inula Species
Authors: Das Aparoop , Shakya Anshul , Ghosh Surajit Kumar , Singh Udaya P. , Bhat Hans R.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Plants of the genus Inula are perennial herbs of the family Asteraceae. This
genus includes more than 100 species, widely distributed throughout Europe, Africa and Asia including
India. Many of them are indicated in traditional medicine, e.g., in Ayurveda. This review explores
chemical constituents, medicinal uses and pharmacological actions of Inula species.

Methods:

Major databases and research and review articles retrieved through Scopus, Web of Science,
and Medline were consulted to obtain information on the pharmacological activities of the genus Inula
published from 1994 to 2017.

Results:

Inula species are used either alone or as an important ingredient of various formulations to cure
dysfunctions of the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, urinary system, central nervous system
and digestive system, and for the treatment of asthma, diabetes, cancers, skin disorders, hepatic disease,
fungal and bacterial infections. A range of phytochemicals including alkaloids, essential and volatile
oils, flavonoids, terpenes, and lactones has been isolated from herbs of the genus Inula, which might
possibly explain traditional uses of these plants.

Conclusion:

The present review is focused on chemical constituents, medicinal uses and pharmacological
actions of Inula species and provides valuable insight into its medicinal potential.
Design of Insertion Mechanism with Friction Wheels for Cannula Flexible Needle Based on TRIZ
Authors: Zhao Yan-Jiang , Yang Ji-Chao , Zhang Yong-De , Liu Jia , Liu Zhi-Qing , Liu Ze-Hua
Published: June 2020

Background:

Flexible needle insertion is one of the minimally invasive surgeries, which
takes advantage of the lateral force acted on the bevel tip to make the needle shaft bend when inserted
into the tissue. The bending makes the needle avoid the obstacles (like bones, veins, nerves,
etc.) in order to reach the target. However, the traditional flexible needle neither can change its
curvature of the path, nor can realize a precise control because of the torsional friction between the
needle and the tissue. Hence, a cannula flexible needle was proposed to overcome the drawbacks,
which consists of a cannula and a stylet. Also, there is a need of an insertion mechanism for the
cannula flexible needle in robot-assisted surgery.

Objective:

The aim of this paper is to innovatively design an insertion mechanism with friction
wheels for the cannula flexible needle, which is used as an end-effector in robot-assisted surgery
system. The mechanism is supposed to realize the coordinated driving of the cannula and the stylet
in order to achieve variable curvatures of paths.

Methods:

Making references of the patents and research papers on needle insertion mechanisms,
and based on the requirement of degree of freedom for the cannula flexible needle insertion, the insertion
mechanism for the cannula flexible needle is designed by using the TRIZ theory. The conflicts
matrix analysis, the invention principles and the substance-field analysis are used to innovatively
design the driving scheme and the synchronous motion mechanism.

Results and Conclusion:

In this paper, the concrete structure design of the insertion mechanism for
the cannula flexible needle is achieved, which is compact and simple. The friction coefficient between
the needle and the wheels, and the pretightening force between both wheels are calculated
through the data from experiments. The insertion accuracy of friction wheel mechanism is tested and
analyzed through experimentation. The results show that the maximum placement error of the needle
executed by the insertion mechanism is less than 0.5 mm, which meets the demands of surgical operations.
Фракционирование изотопов углерода -=SUP=-13-=/SUP=-С/-=SUP=-12-=/SUP=-С из углекислого газа атмосферы в продукты фотосинтеза в листьях растений в зависимости от спектральных характеристик световой среды
Authors: Кулешова Т.Э. , Павлова Е.С. , Галль Н.Р.
Published: June 2020

We have studied influence of the light with various spectral characteristics, coming to plants during its growth, on the distribution of carbon isotopes between atmospheric carbon dioxide and the primary products of photosynthesis in plant leaves, using the developed set of methods and laboratory setups. The difference between the carbon isotopic composition in the air near the plants and in their leaves varies from 7 to 19 ‰, increase in the red component of the spectrum resulting in leave enrichment with light carbon isotope 12C. This difference reflects the degree of isotope fractionation during the plant life, characterizes the rate of carbon assimilation due to photosynthetic reactions, and can be used as a phytomonitoring parameter.