bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Multidisciplinary Lipid Clinic to Improve the Care of Individuals With Severe Lipid Conditions: a RE-AIM Framework Analysis
Authors: Jones Laney K , McMinn Megan , Kann David , Lesko Michael , Sturm Amy C. , Walters Nicole , Chen Nan , Fry Kerrianne , Brownson Ross C. , Gidding Samuel S. , Williams Marc S. , Rahm Alanna Kulchak
Published: August 2020

Background. Individuals with complex dyslipidemia, or those with medication intolerance, are often difficult to manage in primary care. They require the additional attention, expertise, and compliance counseling that occurs in multidisciplinary lipid clinics (MDLCs). We conducted a program evaluation of the first year of a newly implemented MDLC utilizing the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) framework to provide empirical data not only on program effectiveness, but also on components important to local sustainability and future generalizability.Methods. The purpose of the MDLC is to increase uptake of guideline-based care for lipid conditions. Established in 2019, the MDLC provides care via a centralized clinic location within the healthcare system. Primary care providers and cardiologists were invited to refer individuals with lipid conditions. Using a pre/post study design, we evaluated implementation outcomes from the MDLC using the RE-AIM framework.Results. In 2019, 420 referrals were received, and 83 patients were seen in the MDLC (reach). In the lipid subgroups, we found improved diagnosis of condition, increase in prescribing of more aggressive lipid-lowering therapies, high rates of medication prior authorization approvals, and significant reductions in lipid levels (effectiveness). Of the 796 active primary care and cardiology providers in 2019, only 18% (146/796) referred patients to the MDLC (adoption). At the patient-level, 50% (41/82) of patients had at least one follow-up visit with the MDLC, with 12% (10/82) having two or more follow-up visits in 2019 (implementation). At the provider-level, an average of 35 patient referrals per month were made from primary care providers or cardiologists (SD 12) (implementation). During monthly meetings of the operational team, the decision to transition from in-person follow-up to telehealth appointments was implemented to increase capacity and sustain the clinic (maintenance).Conclusions. We found improved diagnosis and risk stratification, increase in guideline-recommended treatments prescribed and clinically significant lowering of lipid levels. Attention to factors including multiple points of contact, duration of visits, extraneous comorbidities and social support could aid in better understanding the success of patient outcomes.
Aptamer Targeted Therapy Potentiates Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Camorani Simona , Passariello Margherita , Agnello Lisa , Esposito Silvia , Collina Francesca , Cantile Monica , Bonito Maurizio Di , Ulasov Ilya V. , Fedele Monica , Zannetti Antonella , De Lorenzo Claudia , Cerchia Laura
Published: August 2020

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a uniquely aggressive cancer with high rates of relapse due to resistance to chemotherapy, the current major option for treatment. TNBC expresses higher levels of programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) compared to other breast cancers, providing the rationale for the recently approved immunotherapy with anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). A huge effort is dedicated to identify actionable biomarkers that may allow for novel combination therapies with immune-checkpoint blockade in TNBC. Platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ) is highly expressed in mesenchymal invasive TNBC, both on tumor cells and tumor microenvironment (TME). We recently proved that tumor growth and lung metastases are impaired in mouse models of human TNBC by a high efficacious PDGFRβ aptamer. Hence, we aimed at investigating the effectiveness of a novel combination treatment with the PDGFRβ aptamer and anti-PD-L1 mAbs in TNBC.Methods: The targeting ability of the anti-human PDGFRβ aptamer toward the murine receptor was verified by streptavidin-biotin assays and confocal microscopy, and its inhibitory function by transwell migration assays on PDGFRβ-positive cells. The anti-proliferative effects of the PDGFRβ aptamer/anti-PD-L1 mAbs combination was assessed in human MDA-MB-231 and murine 4T1 TNBC cells, both grown as monolayer or co-cultured with lymphocytes. Tumor cell lysis and cytokines secretion by lymphocytes were analyzed by LDH quantification and ELISA, respectively. Orthotopic 4T1 xenografts in syngeneic mice were used for dissecting the effect of aptamer/mAbs combination on tumor growth, metastasis and lymphocytes infiltration. Ex vivo analyses through immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR and immunoblotting were performed. Results: We show that the PDGFRβ aptamer potentiates the anti-proliferative activity of anti-PD-L1 mAbs on both human and murine TNBC cells, according to its human/mouse cross-reactivity. Further, by binding to activated human and mouse lymphocytes, the aptamer enhances the anti-PD-L1 mAbs-induced cytotoxicity of lymphocytes against tumor cells. Importantly, the aptamer heightens the antibody efficacy in inhibiting tumor growth and lung metastases in a syngeneic mouse model by acting on both TME and cancer cells. Conclusion: Co-treatment of PDGFRβ aptamer with anti-PD-L1 mAbs is a viable strategy, thus providing for the first an evidence of the efficacy of PDGFRβ/PD-L1 co-targeting combination therapy in TNBC.
Clinical Significance of Circulating Exosomal PD-L1 and Soluble PD-L1 in Nasal-type NK/T-cell Lymphoma Patients Receiving VIPD Containing Chemotherapy
Authors: Li Jiwei , Wei Ping , Guo Ye , Shi Di , Yu Bao-Hua , Su Yi-Fan , Li Xiao-Qiu , Zhou Xiao-Yan
Published: August 2020

Background: Several studies showed that circulating exosomal PD-L1 was associated with immunosuppression and prognosis in cancer patients. However, its prognostic value in extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma (ENKTCL) was poorly understood.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the prognostic value of pretreatment circulating PD-L1+ exosomes and soluble PD-L1 in the plasma of ENKTCL patients treated with VIPD-containing chemotherapy. Results: A total of 107 ENKTCL patients, including 101 early stage and 6 advanced stage patients were enrolled in our study. Most patients were middle-aged and young male adults, with a male to female ratio of approximately 3.7:1. The 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) and 5-year overall survival (OS) rates were 65.2% and 85.7% for the whole cohort, respectively. For early-stage patients, the L/P-VIPD group had better 5-year PFS than the VIPD group (73.6% vs. 53.7%, P=0.031). Compared with the healthy individuals (n=16), the patients with ENKTCL exhibited significantly elevated exoPD-L1 and sPD-L1 levels in the blood. Five-year PFS and OS rates were significantly lower in the high exoPD-L1 and sPD-L1 group than in the low exoPD-L1 and sPD-L1group. However, no correlation was found between circulating exoPD-L1 and sPD-L1 levels (P=0.12, r=0.45).Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that VIPD-containing chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy was a promising regimen in ENKTCL patients. Circulating exoPD-L1 and sPD-L1 levels were significantly elevated in ENKTCL and might be potential biomarkers for predicting the survival outcomes of ENKTCL patients.
Histone Tail Analysis Reveals H3K36me2 And H4K16ac As Epigenetic Signatures of Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma
Authors: An Shejuan , Camarillo Jeannie , Huang Tina , Li Daphne , Morris Juliette , Zoltek Madeline , Qi Jin , Behbahani Mandana , Kelleher Neil , Nazarian Javad , Thomas Paul , Saratsis Amanda Muhs
Published: August 2020

Background: Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive pediatric brainstem tumor. Most DIPGs harbor a histone H3 mutation, which alters histone post-translational modification (PTM) states and transcription. Here, we employed quantitative proteomic analysis to elucidate the impact of H3.3K27M mutation, as well as radiation and bromodomain inhibition (BRDi) with JQ1, on DIPG PTM profiles.Methods: We performed targeted mass spectroscopy on H3.3K27M mutant and wild-type tissues (n=12) and cell lines (n=7).Results: We found 29.2% and 26.4% of total H3.3K27 peptides were H3.3K27M in mutant DIPG tumor cell lines and tissue specimens, respectively. Significant differences in distinct PTMs were observed in H3.3K27M specimens, including at H3K27, H3K36, and H4K16 amino acid residues. In addition, H3.3K27me1 and H4K16ac were the most significantly distinct modifications in H3.3K27M mutant tumors relative to wild-type. Further, H3.3K36me2 was the most abundant modification co-occurring on the H3.3K27M mutant peptide in DIPG tissue, while H4K16ac was the most acetylated residue. Radiation treatment caused changes in PTM abundance in vitro, including increased H3K9me3. BRDi with JQ1 resulted in increased mono- and di-methylation of H3.1K27, H3.3K27, H3.3K36 and H4K20 in vitro. Conclusion: Taken together, our findings provide insight into the effects of the H3K27M mutation on Histone modification states and response to treatment, and suggest H3K36me2 and H4K16ac in DIPG may represent unique tumor epigenetic signatures for targeted therapy.
Decitabine Reverses CSC-Induced Docetaxel Resistance via Epigenetic Regulation of DAB2IP in TNBC.
Authors: Xiong Zhenchong , Yang Lin , Yang Lu , Fu Jianchang , Liu Peng , Sun Peng , Tang Hailin , Xie Xiaoming
Published: August 2020

Background: Although docetaxel (DOC)-based chemotherapy, the standard of care for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), has greatly improved cancer survival, chemoresistance invariably evolves. Methods: Using TNBC and docetaxel-resistant TNBC cell lines, we established murine breast cancer xenograft models to evaluate the impact of decitabine on DOC resistance. The methylation status of DAB2IP was evaluated in 226 TNBC patients and TNBC cell lines by BSP analysis. A limiting dilution assay was performed to evaluate the tumorigenic capacity in vivo. Cellular and molecular mechanisms were demonstrated using in vivo and in vitro biochemical methods.Results: Here, we observed that a low dose of DAC significantly prevented the evolution of DOC resistance via inhibition of cancer stem cell (CSC) enrichment in TNBC. The bisulfite sequencing PCR analysis showed that DAC treatment increased DAB2IP expression via inhibition of DNA methylation in both DOC-resistant TNBC cells and tumorspheres. Loss of DAB2IP boosted the enrichment of CSCs through activation of Erk/β-catenin signaling in vitro and facilitated tumor initiation in vivo. In mouse model, TNBC tumors with inhibition of DAB2IP exhibited poor response to DOC and DOC-resistant tumors were resensitized to DOC treatment by low-dose DAC treatment in vivo. Finally, hypermethylation of DAB2IP was correlated with low expression of DAB2IP and poor outcome of TNBC patients treated with DOC-based chemotherapy. Conclusions: Collectively, we discovered that epigenetic silencing of DAB2IP is a driver of CSC enrichment, which results in the evolution of DOC resistance, and a low dose of DAC reverses DOC resistance through epigenetic re-expression of DAB2IP.
Chitosan-sodium alginate-fatty acid nanocarrier composite: lutein bioavailability, absorption pharmacokinetics in diabetic rat and protection of retinal cells against H2O2 induced oxidative stress in vitro
Authors: Toragall Veeresh B , V Baskarn
Published: August 2020

Aiming to enhance therapeutic efficiency of lutein, lutein loaded chitosan-sodium alginate (CS-SA) based nanocarrier composite (LNCs) were prepared and evaluated for lutein bioavailability and pharmacokinetics in diabetic rats in comparison to micellar lutein (control). Further, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake and protective activity against H2O2 induced oxidative stress in ARPE-19 cells were studied. Results revealed that LNCs displayed maximal lutein AUC in plasma, liver and eye respectively in normal (3.1, 2.7 and 5.2 folds) and diabetic (7.3, 3.4 and 2.8 folds) rats. Lutein from LNCs exhibited a higher half-life time, mean residence time and slow clearance from the plasma, indicating prolonged circulation compared to control. In ARPE-19 cells, pre-treatment with LNCs (10 µM) have significantly attenuated H2O2 induced cell death, intracellular ROS and mitochondrial membrane potential compared to control. In conclusion, LNCs improve the lutein bioavailability in conditions like diabetes, diabetic retinopathy and cataract to curtail oxidative stress in retinal cells.
Biomarkers Associated With Metastasis and Prognosis of Lung Cancer Based on Microarray Databiomarkers Associated With Metastasis and Prognosis of Lung Cancer Based on Microarray Data
Authors: Du Jiang , Qiao Han , Xie Dalong
Published: August 2020

Background: We attempted to discover the biomarker associated with lung cancer metastasis and prognosis.Methods: The mRNA/lncRNA expression profiles were downloaded from the publicly available database, which included three highly metastatic and three weakly metastatic samples. The differentially expressed genes and lncRNAs were analyzed and survival analysis were performed based on the TCGA database. The prognosis associated protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and mRNA-lncRNA coexpression network were constructed followed by the function and pathway enrichment analysis.Results: Total 256 differentially expressed genes and 2 lncRNAs were found to be closely related with prognosis. PPI network was constructed with 222 nodes and 1464 edges. Two modules were divided from PPI network. Genes in Module A were significantly enriched in cell cycle checkpoint, chromosome segregation, and mitotic cell cycle checkpoint. The Module B was closely related with pyridine nucleotide metabolic process, nicotinamide nucleotide metabolic process and carbon metabolism. Coexpression network revealed lncRNA H19 and lncRNA SNHG12 were significant nodes. SNHG12 was closely related with GO:0006260~DNA replication, GO:0055114~oxidation-reduction process and hsa00010:Glycolysis/ Gluconeogenesis. H19 was enriched in GO:0006555~methionine metabolic process, and GO:0046655~folic acid metabolic process.Conclusion: TTK, CCNB1 and lncRNA SNHG12 may be the biomarker associated with metastasis and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma.
Investigation of Immune‐related Makers Associated with Tumor-infiltrating T Cells in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Liao Haihong , Han Shuwen , Pan Yuefen , Xu Jiamin , Qi Quan , Jiang Yizhen , Yang Xi
Published: August 2020

Background: Tumor-infiltrating T cells in the tumor microenvironment are the biological basis of immunotherapy and promising predictors of cancer prognosis. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate immune‐related RNAs associated with tumor-infiltrating T cells in ovarian cancer (OV).Methods: The gene expression data of patients with OV were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The immune and stromal scores were calculated and the differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs) were screened. The abundance of six types of infiltrating immune cells was investigated, and the immune-related DEGs associated with tumor-infiltrating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were explored by correlation analyses. Subsequently, multiple analyses, i.e., protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA; lncRNA-miRNA-target) network analysis, and small-molecule target network analysis, were performed. Results: In total, 37 and 49 immune-related DEGs of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were screened, respectively. PPI network results showed that granzyme B (GZMB) was a hub node in the two PPI networks constructed by immune-related DEGs of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Moreover, the ceRNA chr22-38_28785274-29006793.1/has-miR-1249-5p/CD3E was obtained from the two constructed ceRNA networks related to CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Survival analysis revealed that key immune-related DEGs of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, such as GZMB and CD3E, were positively correlated with patient prognosis. Conclusion: GZMB and ceRNAs, such as chr22-38_28785274-29006793.1/has-miR-1249-5p/CD3E, may mediate the role of tumor-infiltrating T cells in OV. GZMB and CD3E may be used as promising T cell-related biomarkers with prognostic value in OV.
Influence of Host and Geographical Regions on the Rumen Methanogens Diversity in Indian Cattle and Buffaloes
Authors: Trivedi Shraddha , Malik Pradeep Kumar , Kolte Atul Purushottam , Thirumalaisamy Govindasamy , Kumar Vanitha Shyamili , Veerasamy Sejian , Dhali Arindam , Bhatta Raghavendra
Published: August 2020

Background Archaea belong to the domain Euryarchaeota, represents only 3-5% of the rumen microbiota; however, they play a central role in maintaining the H2 pressure. Host species in conjunction with geographical regions may lead to the variable distribution of rumen methanogens. Indian cattle and buffaloes represent 13 and 53% of the global population, respectively. However, the influence of host species (bovine) and geographical regions on the methanogens distribution has not been investigated in Indian subcontinent. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to explore the rumen methanogens diversity in the cattle and buffaloes native to the two distinct geographical regions of India. Results Next generation sequencing of 16S rRNA gene from 36 rumen fluid samples corresponding to cattle and buffaloes revealed that Methanobrevibacter (Mbr.) genus constituted largest fraction (55-62%) of the rumen archaeal community. Furthermore, Methanobrevibacter gottschalkii was the most prominent methanogens with the significantly higher abundance in cattle. Methanomassiliicoccales represented <10% of the total archaeal community and was found to be the most variable between these two host species. In north region, the distribution of Methanomassiliicoccales, such as Methanosphaera sp., Group 4, Group 8, Group 12 sp. and Group 9 sp. was significantly higher in cattle. The distribution of prominent methanogens, such as Mbr. gottschalkii and Mbr. ruminantium did not differ between two host species in the north region. However, Mbr. gottschalkii was significantly higher in buffaloes as compared to cattle in south region. Mbr. wolinii was exclusively detected in the cattle. Inter-region comparison established that Methanomassiliicoccales were the most variable between the two regions. Conclusions Host species did not affect the distribution of hydrogenotrophic methanogens except for Mbr. gottschalkii. Methylotrophic methanogens, in spite of their limited representation, were most influenced by the host species and geographical regions. Overall, the Methanomassiliicoccales distribution was higher in cattle, and the environmental conditions in north region were conducive for their higher distribution. The variable distribution of methanogens indicated that host and geographical region oriented strategies needs to be developed for the reduction of enteric methane emission. Further studies are warranted to explore the impact of diet on the distribution of rumen methanogens between the host species within and across different environmental conditions.
An Assessment of the Feasibility and Effectiveness of Distance Learning for Students with Severe Developmental Disabilities and High Behavioral Needs
Authors: Tomaino Melaura Andree Erickson , Greenberg Alissa L. , Kagawa Sarah , Doering Sagui A. , Miguel Edward Steven
Published: August 2020

School across the country closed their doors during the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures impacted all students, as schools, educators, and families grappled with the realities of transitioning to distance learning platforms. The research on distance learning is still in its early phases. However, almost no research exists on educating students with severe disabilities and high behavioral needs using this technology. Study 1 collected survey data from students’ families and their teachers on the feasibility and effectiveness of distance learning programs when working with students with severe developmental disabilities and high behavioral needs. Results indicated that parents and educators alike reported that distance learning was beneficial for most students but that in person education is more effective with this population. Study 2 further examined the effects of a transition to distance learning on students’ IEP goal progress. Analyses revealed that, overall, students maintained skills addressed in their IEP (i.e., no significant regression or progress). Findings contribute to a much needed literature base suggesting that while distance learning is better than no education, in person instruction is more effective and preferred for most students with severe developmental disabilities and high behavioral needs.
Phenolic Contents and Antioxidant Activity of Helicteres Hirsuta Extracts
Authors: Hieu Le Trung , Thi Tran Thi Van , Son Le Lam , Nhung Nguyen Minh , Diep Huynh Thi Ngoc , Mechler Adam , Vo Quan V.
Published: August 2020

Helicteres hirsuta, which belongs to the Malvaceae family, is used in traditional medicine to
treat malaria, diabetes and cervical cancer. While these uses have not been validated in clinical studies
thus far, extracts from H. hirsuta exhibit confirmed antioxidant and potential anti-cancer activity that
warrant critical assessment. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant properties of different
parts of the plant H. hirsuta. The antioxidant capacities of methanol extracts of different plant parts,
and specific solvent fractions thereof were determined on the basis of 2,2-diphenyl−1−picrylhydrazyl
(DPPH) radical scavenging and total antioxidant activity assays. The ethyl acetate fraction from the
leaf material of H. hirsuta has the most potent antioxidant activity with the lowest half maximal inhibitory
concentration (IC50) value of 9.50 μg/mL, that is 4 times lower than the IC50 of curcumin. The
amounts of methyl gallate and rutin dominated the extracts at 8.62 ± 0.01 and 6.76 ± 0.02 mg/g, respectively,
out of a total of 21.00 ± 0.01 mg/g active phenolic fraction. The amount of methyl gallate
strongly correlated with total phenolic content and total antioxidant capacity, thus this compound may
be useful as a marker of antioxidant activity in common medicinal plants.
Iodine-Mediated Multi-Component Reactions: Readily Access to Tetrazoles and Guanidines
Authors: Shaik Bajivali , Seelam Mohan , Tamminana Ramana , Kammela Prasad Rao
Published: August 2020

Environmentally benign syntheses of One-pot sequential reactions of benzoyl chloride with amines followed by the treatment of molecular I2 reagent under basic conditions provide benzoyl tetrazoles and guanidines in moderate to excellent yields. This one-pot synthesis has several advantages such as mild reaction conditions, short reaction time, convenient workup, high yields, using cheap and readily available reagent molecular Iodine. In addition, functional group tolerance has been explored.
4-Aminosalicylic Acid-based Hybrid Compounds: Synthesis and In vitro Antiplasmodial Evaluation
Authors: Nqoro Xhamla , Jama Siphesihle , Morifi Eric , Aderibigbe Blessing Atim
Published: August 2020

Background:

Malaria is a deadly and infectious disease responsible for millions of death worldwide, mostly in the African region. The malaria parasite has developed resistance to the currently used antimalarial drugs, and it has urged researchers to develop new strategies to overcome this challenge by designing different classes of antimalarials.

Objectives:

A class of hybrid compounds containing 4-aminosalicylic acid moiety was prepared via esterification and amidation reactions and characterized using FTIR, NMR and LC-MS. In vitro antiplasmodial evaluation was performed against the asexual NF54 strain of P. falciparum parasites.

Methods:

In this research, known 4-aminoquinoline derivatives were hybridized with 4- aminosalicylic acid to afford hybrid compounds via esterification and amidation reactions. 4- aminosalicylic acid, a dihydrofolate compound inhibits DNA synthesis in the folate pathway and is a potential pharmacophore for the development of antimalarials.

Results:

The LC-MS, FTIR, and NMR analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of the compounds. The compounds were obtained in yields in the range of 63-80%. The hybrid compounds displayed significant antimalarial activity when compared to 4-aminosalicylic acid, which exhibited poor antimalarial activity. The IC50 value of the most potent hybrid compound, 9 was 9.54±0.57 nm.

Conclusion:

4-aminosalicylic has different functionalities, which can be used for hybridization with a wide range of compounds. It is a potential pharmacophore that can be utilized for the design of potent antimalarial drugs. It was found to be a good potentiating agent when hybridized with 4- aminoquinoline derivatives suggesting that they can be utilized for the synthesis of a new class of antimalarials.
Synthesis and Biological Activity Evaluation of Polyfunctionalized Anthraquinonehydrazones
Authors: Lozynskyi Andrii , Holota Serhii , Yushyn Ihor , Sabadakh Oksana , Karpenko Olexandr , Novikov Volodymyr , Lesyk Roman
Published: August 2020

Background :

Anthraquinone derivatives, frequently occurring motifs in many various
natural compounds, have attracted a great deal of interest as compounds with a wide spectrum of
biological activities.

Introduction:

The hybrid pharmacophore approach has become an object of considerable interest
due to the incorporation of a five- or six-membered heterocyclic rings in the structure of various
natural compounds, especially anthraquinone derivatives.

Methods:

A series of polyfunctionalized anthraquinonehydrazones have been synthesized via the
azo-coupling reaction between anthraquinone-based triazenes and methylene active compounds. The
structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed by spectral data. Some of the synthesized
compounds were screened for their in vitro anticancer activity according to US NCI protocols. The
screening of antimicrobial and antifungal activities against Candida albicans and Lactobacillus sp.
was carried out. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antioxidant (DPPH free radical
scavenging assay) and herbicidal activity.

Results:

The synthesized 1-[N'-(5-oxo-2-thioxoimidazolidin-4-ylidene)-hydrazino]-anthraquinone
1.5 displayed a high level of antimitotic activity against tested human tumor cells with mean
GI50/TGI values 4.06/78.52μM. The screening of antimicrobial and antifungal activities led to the
identification of 1.8 and 1.9 with a moderate effect on Candida albicans and Lactobacillus sp. Antioxidant
activity evaluation allowed the identification of 1-[N'-(3-methyl-5-oxo-1-phenyl-1,5-
dihydropyrazol-4-ylidene)-hydrazino]-anthraquinone 1.8 with an IC50 value of 3.715 mM. The herbicidal
activity screening led to compound identification 1.8 with growth inhibition of Agrostis stolonifera
at 25 %.

Conclusion:

The obtained anthraquinonehydrazones constitute an interesting template for the design
of new synthetic agents with polypharmacological activities.
Microwave Assisted, Antimicrobial Activity and Molecular Modeling of Some Synthesized Newly Pyrimidine Derivatives Using 1, 4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane as a Catalyst
Authors: Elkanzi Nadia Ali Ahmed , Bakr Rania Badaway
Published: August 2020

Background:

Pyrimidine ring is one of the most important heterocyclic scaffolds due to its biological benefits as antimicrobial agents via acting as competitive suppressors of dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) enzyme, inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase or glucosamine N-phosphate synthase.

Objective:

The objective of this work is preparing twenty four derivatives of pyrimidine heterocycle 1a-f, 2a-f, 3a-f and 4a-f via a facile one step reaction with antimicrobial potential.

Methods:

Novel twenty four derivatives of pyrimidine heterocycle 1a-f, 2a-f, 3a-f and 4a-f were prepared via a facile one step reaction by treating substituted aldehydes, urea and / or thiourea and active methylene derivatives (diethyl malonate and / or ethyl cyanoacetate) using 1,4- diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) as a basic catalyst. The chemical structures of all these novel targets were proved by 1HNMR, 13CNMR, MS and elemental analyses. All the twenty four new targets 1a-f, 2a-f, 3a-f and 4a-f were assessed for their antimicrobial activity towards bacteria as Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli and against fungi represented by Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans.

Results:

Most of the compounds exhibited very good antimicrobial activity, especially; compound (1c) exhibited the most activity against three types of bacteria Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, this derivative 1c displayed similar antifungal activity towards Candida albicans as that exhibited by amphotericin B.

Conclusion:

All the screened compounds 1a-f, 2a-f, 3a-f and 4a-f showed antibacterial activity with inhibition zone diameter range 6-21 mm/mg, while, regarding the antifungal activity, all the novel derivatives except 2b, 2d, 3a, 3c, 3e did not have any effect towards Aspergillus flavus and 3d did not reveal any inhibitory activity towards both fungal species.
Evaluation of α-amylase Inhibition and Cytotoxic Activities of the Arachis hypogaea and Cinnamomum tamala
Authors: Sani Deedarul H. , Munna Ali N. , Alam Md. Jahangir , Salim Mohammad , Alam Md. Jahangir
Published: August 2020

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is the most occurring non-communicable disease resulting
in a high blood glucose level. There has been an immense interest in the development of alternative
medicines for diabetes treatment, specifically screening functional foods for phytochemicals
with the capability of delaying or preventing glucose absorption through digestive enzymes (e.g.
α-amylase) inhibition. So, the development of α-amylase inhibitors derived from natural food products
is an alternative way to prevent diabetes mellitus.

Objective:

In this study, organic solvent extracts of the Arachis hypogaea (Peanut) and Cinnamomum
tamala (Indian bay leaf/Tejpata) were used to investigate their potential α-amylase inhibition
and cytotoxic activities through α-amylase inhibition assay and brine shrimp lethality bioassay respectively.

Methods:

The α-amylase inhibition assay was performed using the 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid method
for different concentrations of plant extracts. The optical density (OD) of the solutions were measured
to determine the inhibition activity at 540 nm using a spectrophotometer. The cytotoxicity of
the plant extracts was measured using brine shrimp (Artemia salina) lethality bioassay.

Results:

Among the different organic solvent extracts, peanut seed ethanol extract showed the highest
α-amylase inhibition activity (67.68±8.67%) at 1.25 μg/mL concentration with an IC50 value of
0.61 μg/mL which is very close to standard α-amylase inhibitor Acarbose (72.34±4.23%) with an
IC50 value of 0.32 μg/mL while acetone extract of Indian bay leaf exhibited the lowest inhibition
activity (47.75±1.63%) with an IC50 value of 1.42 μg/mL at the same concentration. Besides, the
maximum cytotoxic activity was found in acetone extract of peanut shell with an LC50 value of
57.87 μg/mL, whereas ethanol extract of peanut seed showed the lowest cytotoxicity with an LC50
value of 413.90 μg/mL.

Conclusion:

The result of the present work clearly indicates the potentiality of peanut seed ethanol
extract to be used in the management of hyperglycemia as it significantly inhibits α-amylase activity
while showing less cytotoxic activities.
Surface Modification of Electrospun Polyethylenimine/Polyvinyl Alcohol Nanofibers Immobilized with Silver Nanoparticles for Potential Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Xiao Yunchao , Ma Hui , Fang Xu , Huang Yunpeng , Liu Pengchao , Shi Xiangyang
Published: August 2020

Objective:

In order to investigate the potential biomedical applications of silver nanoparticle
(Ag NP)-immobilized electrospun nanofibers with different surface functionalities.

Methods:

Silver nanoparticles were immobilized within water-stable electrospun polyethylenimine
(PEI)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers by an in-situ reduction method after complexing Ag+. ions
with the free PEI amine groups. The obtained Ag NP-incorporated PEI/PVA nanofibers were then
hydroxylated, carboxylated, and acetylated to generate different surface functionalities. Different
techniques were employed to characterize the Ag NP-containing nanofibers with different surface
functionalities.>

Results:

In vitro antibacterial activity tests show that Ag NP-containing nanofibrous mats have high
antibacterial activity and are capable of inhibiting the growth of both S. aureus and E. coli bacteria.
Cell viability assay data show that the Ag NP-containing nanofibers are cytocompatible, and those
treated by hydroxylation and acetylation display better cytocompatibility than those treated by carboxylation
and the pristine non-modified fibers to promote cell adhesion and proliferation.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the hydroxylated or acetylated Ag NP-containing PEI/PVA nanofibers have
a great potential for wound dressing, biological protection and tissue engineering applications.
Characterization of GeSbSe Based Slot Optical Waveguides
Authors: Iqbal Muddassir , Ma YouQiao , Zhao Delin , Parvaei Babak
Published: August 2020

Background:

Among various chalcogenides, GeSbSe shows a good transmittance in the
visible, NIR and, midIR spectrum from 1-20 μm and also demonstrates excellent moldability.

Objective:

In current work, we have characterized GeSbSe glass for use in sensor mechanism and for
adaptive polarization control.

Methods:

After analysing an earlier work regarding GeSbSe based Silicon on insulator optical waveguide,
we implemented GeSbSe in a low refractive index slot region of SOI slot optical waveguide.
Change in waveguide geometry can cause a shift in the dispersion profile, but a relatively distinct
pattern has been observed. T-slot waveguide structure has also been analysed, where GeSbSe has
been implemented in low refractive index slot regions with the Graphene layer beneath the horizontal
slot region for enhancement in tailoring ability of the birefringence parameters.

Results:

Literature review led to the presence of absorption resonance wavelength in SOI slot optical
waveguide with our proposed composition, which is attributed to the single average harmonic oscillator
property of the chalcogenides. In the T-slot waveguide structure, it was found that a shift in
Fermi energy and Mobility values can bring a change in birefringence, even with constant waveguide
geometry and operating wavelength.

Conclusion:

Absorption resonance wavelength in GeSbSe slot optical waveguide has been exploited
for proposing the refractive index dispersion sensor. Our design approach regarding T-slot waveguide
may lead to the provision of automated polarization management sources for the light on chip
circuits.
Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals Centromere Protein K Can Serve as Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Therapeutic Target for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Luo Yimin , Wang Xihua , Li Li , Wang Qun , Hu Yue , He Can , Zhang Mei
Published: August 2020

Background::

Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) accounts for 80% of all lung
cancer cases, which have been a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Previous
studies demonstrated that centromere proteins were dysregulated and involved in regulating the
tumorigenesis and development of human cancers. However, the roles of centromere protein
family members in NSCLC remained to be further elucidated.

Objective::

The present study aimed to explore the roles of centromere protein family members in NSCLC.

Method::

GEPIA (http://gepia.cancer-pku.cn/) was used to analyze the target’s expression between normal and human cancers. We
explored the prognostic value of centromere proteins in NSCLC using the Kaplan–Meier plotter (http://kmplot.com). The
protein-protein interaction among centromere proteins were determined using GeneMANIA (http://www.genemania.org).
TISIDB (http://cis.hku.hk/TISIDB) database was used to detect the relationship between centromere proteins expression
and clinical stages, lymphocytes, immunomodulators and chemokines in NSCLC. The DAVID database
(https://david.ncifcrf.gov) was used to detect potential roles of CENPK using its co-expressing genes

Results::

The present study for the first time showed that centromere protein family members including CENPA, CENPF, CENPH,
CENPI, CENPK, CENPM, CENPN, CENPO, CENPQ, CENPU were dysregulated and correlated to the poor prognosis of
patients with LUAD. CENPK showed the greatest correlation with the prognosis of patients with NSCLC. We found that
CENPK was significantly highly expressed in LUAD samples and overexpression of CENPK was remarkably correlated
to the shorter OS and DFS on patients with different stage NSCLC. Of note, this study for the first time showed that
CENPK was significantly correlated to the lymphocytes and immunomodulators using the TISIDB database

Conclusion::

In summary, CENPK can serve as a novel biomarker for the diagnosis of patients
with NSCLC.
Cultural Variations in Public Beliefs about Mental Disorders: A Comparison between Tunisia and Germany
Authors: Angermeyer Matthias C. , Carta Mauro G. , Ghachem Rym , Matschinger Herbert , Millier Aurélie , Refai Tarek , Schomerus Georg , Toumi Mondher
Published: August 2020

Background:

In recent years there is a growing interest in public beliefs about mental disorders. Numerous representative population-based studies have been conducted around the globe, also in European countries bordering on the Mediterranean Sea. However, relatively little is known about public beliefs in countries in Northern Africa.

Objective:

To fill this gap by comparing public beliefs about mental disorders in Tunisia and Germany, focusing on causal beliefs, help-seeking recommendations and treatment preferences.

Methods:

Representative national population-based surveys have been conducted in Tunisia in 2012 (N = 811) and in Germany in 2011 (N = 1852), using the same interview mode and the same fully structured interview starting with a vignette depicting a person suffering from either schizophrenia or depression.

Results:

In Tunisia, the public was more likely to adopt psychosocial and to reject biogenetic explanations than in Germany. Correspondingly, psychological treatments were more frequently recommended and biological ones more frequently advised against. There was also a strong inclination to share religious beliefs and to recommend seeking religious advice. Tunisians tended much more than Germans to hold moralistic views and to blame the afflicted person for his or her illness. In Tunisia, the public tended less to differentiate between schizophrenia and depression than in Germany.

Conclusion:

Marked differences between Tunisia and Germany exist in public beliefs about the causes of mental disorders and their treatment, which correspond to differences in cultural orientations prevailing in these countries. Mental health professionals need to be sensitive to the particular cultural context in which they operate, in order to be able to reach those they intend to care for.
Migrant Women-experiences from the Mediterranean Region
Authors: La Cascia Caterina , Cossu Giulia , Lindert Jutta , Holzinger Anita , Zreik Thurayya , Ventriglio Antonio , Bhugra Dinesh
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

The phenomenon of migration is characterized and influenced by a number of different variables; and the different stages of journey are related to different levels and types of psychological distress. Women, in particular, are exposed to further specific risks during migration.

Aim:

To determine the factors that affect the psychological health of migrant women during the different stages of the migration journey.

Methods:

We provide a narrative review of the literature around the experiences of women during migration process, with a geographical focus on women migrating to the Mediterranean area.

Results:

Little data is currently available on the burden of mental health disorders for female migrants. Most studies about the mental health status of migrants were not gender-disaggregated or focused specifically on migrant women’s experiences of violence. Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) was found to be a common risk factor faced by all the women who leave their native country to migrate to other countries.

Conclusion:

Despite the importance of the issue and the gender-specific variables related to the experience of migrant women, few studies have looked specifically at psychological variables and mental health status in the female migrant population. It is crucial that future studies are conducted around female migration, violence towards women, and women’s mental health, in order to provide an evidence-base for promoting adequate policies and prevention/treatment programs for women.
Staff Perception of Respect for Human Rights of Users and Organizational Well-being: A Study in Four Different Countries of the Mediterranean Area
Authors: Zgueb Yosra , Preti Antonio , Perra Alessandra , El-Astal Sofian , Aviles Gonzalez Cesar Ivan , Piras Martina , Testa Giorgia , Kirolov Iskren , Tamburini Giorgio , Ouali Uta , Kalcev Goce , Romano Ferdinando , Kovess Viviane , Carta Mauro Giovanni
Published: August 2020

Background:

The perception by mental health service staff of respect for users' rights is a fundamental component of organizational well-being. The objective of this work is to examine how cultural differences and the working context can influence the perception of respect for users' rights in mental health professionals in the Mediterranean area.

Methods:

An observational survey carried out in four different mental health networks in four countries of the Mediterranean area (Tunisia, North-Macedonia, Italy, Palestine). Each invited participant fulfilled a format on socio-demographic information and coded the Well-Being at Work and Respect Right Questionnaire (WWRR). All data were encrypted and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The Games-Howell post-hoc test was used to assess differences between countries. The Games-Howell test does not assume equal variances and sample sizes. Eta-squared (η2) was used as a measure of effect size in the ANOVA (η2around 0.01, 0.06, and 0.14 are considered small, medium, and large, respectively).

Results:

The sample included 590 professionals working in the mental health field. The four countries showed statistically significant differences with regards to the quality rights assessment tool. Participants from Italy reported, on average, the highest scores across the questions. There were also differences across the countries about the perception of the impact of available resources on the effectiveness of care (η2 = 0.106).

Conclusion:

Our findings offer a useful insight into the perception of the quality of mental health services, especially from a users’ rights point of view.
Postpartum Depression in The Arab Region: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Ayoub Khubaib , Shaheen Amira , Hajat Shakoor
Published: August 2020

Background:

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a major public health problem affecting mothers and their babies. However, few studies have investigated the prevalence and risk factors for postpartum depression among Arab mothers. This systematic literature review aims to determine the prevalence of PPD among mothers in Arab countries and identify the main risk factors.

Methods:

A review of all peer-reviewed journal published studies on PPD and its risk factors among Arab mothers until February 2016. The following data bases were searched; PubMed, Springlink, Science direct, EBSCOhost, and Arabpsychnet.

Results:

25 studies were included in the review. PPD rates were high in general but prevalences were close to the rates observed in other low and lower-middle-income countries. Twelve studies reported PPD prevalences in the region of 15-25%, 7 studies reported prevalences< 15% and 6 studies reported prevalences<25%. The most important risk factors for PPD were: low income and socioeconomic status, obstetric complications during pregnancy, unwanted pregnancy, ill infant, formula feeding, low social and husband support, marital and in-laws conflicts, stressful life events during pregnancy and personal or family history of depression.

Conclusion:

Prevalence of PPD is high in most Arab countries, with differences due in part to variations in methods of assessment. This review highlights the problem of PPD and advocates for the adoption of necessary changes in the Arab health systems such as routine screening and efficient referral systems in order to detect and treat this potentially debilitating condition.
Factors Behind Leaving the Job and Rejoining it by the Japanese Dental Hygienist
Authors: Nomura Yoshiaki , Okada Ayako , Yamamoto Yuko , Kakuta Erika , Tomonari Hiroshi , Hosoya Noriyasu , Hanada Nobuhiro , Yoshida Naomi , Takei Noriko
Published: August 2020

Aim:

To investigate the factors that countermeasure the re-entry of Japanese dental hygienist.

Background:

The number of currently working dental hygienists is not sufficient. About 40% licensed dental hygienist are leaving their professional jobs. Re-entry of the dental hygienist who have left is expected to compensate the unbalance of demand and supply.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to identify the obstacles faced during re-entry by the dental hygienists and propose the countermeasures for supporting re-entry.

Methods:

The Japan Dental Hygienist Association conducts survey of the Employment Status of Japanese dental hygienist every 5 years since 1981.Questionnaires were distributed for all members of the Japan Dental Hygienists Association. Among the 94 items, following eight specific items were used for analysis: 1. The reason of leaving the job. 2. For how long have you left the job? 3. Willingness to reenter. 4. How do you find your work for re-entry? 5. Is there any obstacle in the reentry? 6. What is the obstacle faced by you during reentry? 7. Do you need lecture course for reentry? 8. What kind of lecture course contents do you want to attend?

Results:

Questioners were distributed among the 16,113 members of Appeases Dental hygienist Association, and out of which 8,780 responded (collection rate:54.5%). By log-linear analysis, the reason behind leaving the job were dissatisfaction with work content and marriage significant in age groups ≤29 and 30-39. Child birth / child rearing was significant in age groups ≤29, 30-39 and 40-49. Payment was significant in 30-39 and 40-49. Child birth / rearing and working hours had the most important impacts on leaving the job and were among the obstacle for reentry. In this study, a number of dental hygienist who leave the job due to child birth / rearing was highest.

Conclusion:

There was a limitation for sampling frame of this study. Workplace improvement including flexible working time may be the most important factors for the reentry of the dental hygienist who had left their jobs previously.Social support system is indispensable to improve women's working environment.