bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implantable collamer lens with a central hole for residual refractive error correction after corneal refractive surgery
Authors: Jing Zhang , Zhang Zhenzhen , Yi Zhu , Zhu DongQin , Xianqun Fan
Published: June 2019

PURPOSE: To assess the visual and refractive outcomes of an implantable collamer lens with a central hole (ICL V4c) for residual refractive error correction after corneal refractive surgery in individuals with myopia.
DESIGN: Prospective, nonrandomized observational case series (self-controlled).

METHODS: We investigated 16 eyes of eight consecutive patients with myopia undergoing ICL V4c implantation after corneal refractive surgery. The uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were examined before surgery and 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. We quantitatively assessed the postoperative values of the modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, objective scattering index (OSI), and OQAS values (OVs) by using an Optical Quality Analysis System.
RESULTS: At 6 months after surgery, the mean uncorrected logMAR VA was 0.06 ± 0.10, and the values had improved in 100% of the eyes. The mean MTF cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, OSI, OV 100%, OV 20%, and OV 9%, were 31.29 ± 4.32 cycles/degree (c/d), 0.18 ± 0.04, 1.469 ± 0.47, 0.97 ± 0.26, 0.75 ± 0.29, and 0.51 ± 0.23 at 6 months after ICL V4c implantation, respectively.
CONCLUSION: ICL V4c implantation was safe and effective for the correction of residual refractive error after corneal refractive surgeries, and it had excellent optical performance.
Contribution of metabolic factors as effect modifiers to the relationships between blood pressure components and stroke in Chinese rural adults: the Henan Rural Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Xia , Li Yuqian , Zhao Xinyu , Liu Min , Liu Xiaotian , Tu Runqi , Qian Xinling , Zhang Haiqing , Tian Zhongyan , Qiao Dou , Mao Zhenxing , Zhang Gongyuan , Wang Chongjian
Published: June 2019

Background

Although previous studies have explored the relationship between blood pressure (BP) component and stroke, it remains uncertain which BP component is best marker to identify stroke, especially in rural China. Furthermore, the role of metabolic factors in this association has not been reported. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficiency of BP components as markers for identifying stroke in Chinese rural adults. Simultaneously, we quantified how much of the effects of BP on stroke were mediated through metabolic factors.

Methods

Of 38880 eligible individuals aged 18 to 79 were derived from the Henan Rural Cohort study. The relationships between BP components and stroke were explored by restricted cubic splines and logistic regression models. Receiver-operating characteristic curve was conducted to evaluate the identifying performance of BP components. Mediation analysis by bootstrap was used to explore the contribution of metabolic factors to BP - related stroke.

Results

In the fully models, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) of systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in the highest quartile with the risk of stroke were 1.81 (1.56-2.10), 1.72 (1.51-1.97), 1.55 (1.32-1.81) and 1.80 (1.57-2.06), respectively. The non-linear association tests demonstrated that the dose-response relationships were linear between SBP, DBP, PP and MAP with stroke (all p for non-linear > 0.05). In addition, PP had the largest area under curve value (0.655) for stroke in the crude model. However, MAP and SBP had the largest area under curve value (both 0.753) for identifying stroke after adjusting for potential confounders. We further reported that 3.51%–7.22% proportion explained risk of stroke was mediated through metabolic factors.

Conclusions

SBP and MAP might be better markers for identifying stroke than other BP components. In addition, BP -related stroke was mediated by some degree of metabolic factors.
BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF GLOBAL SICKLE CELL DISEASE RESEARCH FROM 1997 – 2017
Authors: Okoroiwu Henshaw , López-Muñoz Francisco , Povedano-Montero F. Javier
Published: June 2019

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by single point mutation in the β-globin chain of the hemoglobin. It has been recognized by World Health Organization as a public health priority since 2006.
Methods: Scopus database was used in this study with the search descriptors: “sickle cell” and “sickle cell disease”. We applied common bibliometric indicators to evaluate the trend in scientific literature in sickle cell disease research.
Results: We retrieved a total of 19,921 scientific literatures in the repertoire from 1997 to 2017. Price law was fulfilled in the trend of production of scientific literature in SCD as the growth of scientific literature was more exponential (r = 0.959) than linear (r = 0.9449). We observed a duplication time of 4.55 years. The Bradford core was made up of 69 journals with Blood at the top, publishing the most number of articles. The most productive institutions were mostly United States agencies and hospitals. United States was the most productive country. National Institute of Health was the most productive institution and also had the highest number of citation. Vichinsky E was the most productive author while the most cited article was published by Circulation.
Conclusion: The growth of scientific literature in SCD was found to be high. However, the exponential growth trend shows a “yet-to-be-explored” area of research. This study will be useful for physicians, researchers, research funders, policy cum decision makers.
Effects of cognitive and physical loads on dynamic and static balance of older adults under single, dual and multi-task conditions
Authors: Allahverdipour Hamid , Dianat Iman , Mameh Galavizh , Jafarabadi mohammad Asghari
Published: June 2019

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of cognitive and physical loads on dynamic and static balance of older adults under single, dual and multi-task conditions.
Methods: The effects of single versus combined (dual-task and multi-task) cognitive (to speak out the name of the weekdays in a reverse order) and physical (with three levels including handling weights of 1kg, 2kg and 3kg in each hand) loads on dynamic and static balance of 42 older adults (21 males and 21 females), aged ≥ 60 years were studied. Dynamic and static balance measures were evaluated using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and stabilometer (sway index) tests, respectively.
Results: The TUG speed of female participants was generally slower than that of male participants. Cognitive task influenced the participants’ dynamic balance during the dual-task conditions, while the static balance was not affected in this phase. The dynamic and static balance measures were more influenced when performing the multi-tasks than when doing the dual-tasks. The effects of various levels of physical demand on the dynamic balance varied greatly under dual- and multi-task conditions.
Conclusions: The findings add to the understanding of the factors influencing the elderly balance and control under cognitive and physical functioning.
A cocktail of antibodies to multiple tumor-specific neoantigens increases binding and inhibits tumor growth
Authors: Shukla Girja S. , Sun Yu-Jing , Pero Stephanie C. , Krag David N.
Published: June 2019

Background: Antibodies that target a single tumor antigen fail to cure stage IV cancer patients due to tumor heterogeneity resulting in variable expression of antigen. Tumor cells with insufficient binding of antibody will not undergo antibody induced cytotoxicity. We describe targeting multiple tumor-specific antigens that resulted in homogeneous dense binding to mouse melanoma cells and significant tumor growth inhibition.
Methods: Surface-related tumor-specific mutations on B16-F10 cells were identified. Peptides containing the single amino acid mutation were synthesized for 9 different neoantigens. Rabbits were vaccinated with each of these peptides and high affinity polyclonal antibodies to each peptide were obtained. The 9 antibodies were combined as a cocktail and mice with implanted B16-F10 cells were treated with and without PD1 inhibitor.
Results: Even a single dose of the antibody cocktail inhibited tumor growth and prolonged survival. PD1 inhibitor alone had little effect on tumor growth. The antibody cocktail plus PD1 inhibition increased tumor response and 4 doses of the cocktail completely prevented tumor growth in 50% of the mice. Complete responses were durable. The complete responders were highly resistant to tumor re-challenge at 6 months. No adverse events were identified in the antibody treated mice.
Conclusions: Multiple tumor-specific cell surface-related neoantigens were abundant in B16-F10 cells. Antibodies to 9 of these neoantigens had variable binding but when combined had dense homogeneous binding. Even one dose of this cocktail of 9 antibodies improved survival and when multiple does were combined with PD1 inhibition 50% of the mice were rendered permanently tumor free.
Associations of Serum Fatty Acids with Serum Lipids Parameters in Ischaemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Mori Takahisa , Yoshioka Kazuhiro
Published: June 2019

Background:

Serum fatty acids (s-FA) are likely associated with serum lipids parameters (s-LP), such as total cholesterol (T-CHO), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides (TG), because fatty acids (FA) are components of lipoproteins. However, little is known about the association of s-FA with s-LP. The aim of our retrospective study was to investigate the association of s-FA with s-LP in Ischaemic stroke patients.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study of ischaemic stroke patients aged 50 years or older who 1) were admitted to our institution between September 2015 and March 2017 within 24 hours of stroke onset and 2) took blood examination of s-FA levels of palmitic acid (PA), stearic acid (StA), oleic acid (OlA), linoleic acid (LiA), arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). We evaluated correlation of serum levels or composition percentage (%) of FA with s-LP.

Results:

One hundred ninety-one patients met our inclusive criteria. Their average age was 74.4 years, BMI was 23.4 kg/m2, T-CHO was 203.4, LDL-C was 121.7, HDL-C was 58.5 and TG was 116.2 mg/dl. Stepwise linear regression analysis showed that LiA and AA were independent positive factors of T-CHO, AA and LiA% were independent positive factors of LDL-C, AA was an independent positive factor of HDL-C, AA% and LiA% were independent inverse factors of HDL-C, and OlA was an independent positive factor of TG.

Conclusions:

Serum FA had correlation with s-LP in ischaemic stroke patients. The results warrant clinical application of s-FA modification to improve s-LP.
Contributions of Vitamin D in the management of depressive symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors: study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Porto Catarina Magalhaes , Silva Tatiana de Paula Santana da , Sougey Everton Botelho
Published: June 2019

Background: Depression is a major cause of chronic disability throughout the world and an important cardiovascular risk factor, increasing the relative risk of coronary artery disease as well as rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Concomitant to the greater prevalence of depression, there has been a reduction in exposure to sunlight with the increase in urbanization and the use of sun block, which has led to a reduction in serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Therefore, this paper describes a protocol for a clinical trial aimed at evaluating the effects of vitamin D supplementation on depression and cardiovascular risk factors to contribute evidence regarding the potential influence of supplementation in situations related to mood regulation.
Methods: This protocol study was guided by the SPIRIT recommendations. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial will be conducted with 224 adults (age range: 18 to 59 years) with depression taking antidepressants with no history of vitamin D supplementation, psychiatric comorbidities, chronic kidney disease, hypercalcemia or neoplasm in care at psychiatric outpatient clinics of two universities in northeast Brazil. Eligible participants who provided written consent will be randomly designated to either the intervention group (n = 112; vitamin D supplementation – 50,000 IU per week for six months) or control group (n = 112; placebo taken weekly for six months). Measures for monitoring depressive symptoms, clinical trials and laboratory tests for evaluating cardiovascular risk factors and serum vitamin D levels will be performed before and after the intervention period.
Discussion: To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first clinical trial with the aim of testing the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation on the reduction in cardiovascular risk and as an adjuvant to depression therapy for a prolonged period (six months). The findings will contribute to the understanding of the therapeutic effects of vitamin D supplementation on the management of depression and can help guide public policies directed toward vitamin supplementation for the reduction of cardiovascular risk.
Trial registration: Proof: http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/. Number: RBR-6yj8sj / UTN Number: U1111-1217-9237 (July 23, 2018)
Changes in Retinal and Choroidal Vascularity in Eyes with Acute Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Guo Jingli , Ding Xinyi , Zhang Yongjin , Xu Gezhi , Wu Haixiang
Published: June 2019

Background To compare the vascular changes of superficial capillary layer (SCP) and deep capillary layer (DCP) in retina and choriocapillary layer in eyes with acute central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) between at baseline and 3 months.
Methods Prospective case series; Twelve patients (12 eyes) with acute CSC at the baseline and 3 months were included. All patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations. Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and central macular thickness (CMT) were evaluated by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The foveal avascular zone (FAZ), the microvascular morphology and density of SCP and DCP, and the choroicapillary morphology were assessed by OCTA or Image J software. All data in this study were presented as mean and standard deviations (SD)
Results The mean±SD CMT (p=0.018), the mean±SD SFCT (p=0.013), the mean±SD microvascular density of DCP (p＜0.001) and choroicapillary layer (p＜0.001) at baseline were different from the ones at 3 months. The density of DCP was increased and choriocapillaris flow signal void was recovered at 3months in the process of self-resolve. Two eyes exhibited vascularized flat pigment epithelial detachment (FIPED) by OCTA. The en-face OCT can illstrate the area of the elongation of ellipsoid zone (EZ).
Conclusions OCTA enables the visualization of microvascular features of the DCP and choroidcapillary in eyes with acute CSC in the process of self-resovle to help elucidate the pathophysiology. Vascularized FIPED could be obtained in acute CSC eyes by OCTA. OCTA imaging seems to be a useful tool in the identification of acute CSC.
PROtective Ventilation with a low versus high Inspiratory Oxygen fraction(PROVIO) and its effects on postoperative pulmonary complications:protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Xue-Fei , Jiang Dan , Jiang Yu-Lian , Yu Hong , Jiang Jia-Li , He Lei-Lei , Yang Xiao-Yun , Yu Hai
Published: June 2019

Background: Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) is the most common perioperative complication following surgical site infection (SSI), which prolongs the hospital stay and increases health care cost. Lung-protective ventilation strategy is considered as better practice in abdominal surgery to prevent PPCs. However, the role of inspiratory oxygen fraction (FiO₂) in the strategy remains disputable. Previous trials have focused on reducing SSI by increasing inhaled oxygen concentration but higher FiO₂ (80%) was found to be associated with a greater incidence of atelectasis and mortality in recent researches. The trial aims at comparing the effect of FiO₂ added to lung-ventilation strategy on reducing the incidence of PPCs during general anesthesia for abdominal surgery.

Methods: PROtective Ventilation with a low versus high Inspiratory Oxygen fraction trial（PROVIO）is a single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled trial planning to recruit 252 patients under abdominal surgery lasting for at least 2 hours. The patients will be randomly assigned to (1) a low FiO₂ (30% FiO₂) group and (2) a high FiO₂ (80% FiO₃) in lung-protective ventilation strategy. The primary outcome of the study is the occurrence of PPCs within the postoperative 7 days. Secondary outcomes include the severity grade of PPCs, the occurrence of postoperative extrapulmonary complications and all-cause mortality within the postoperative 7 and 30 days.

Discussion: PROVIO trial assesses the effect of low versus high FiO₂ in lung-protective ventilation strategy on PPCs for abdominal surgery patients and the results will provide practical approaches to intraoperative oxygen management.

Trial registration number: Registered at www.ChiCTR.org.cn on 13 February 2018 with identifier no. ChiCTR18 00014901.
Nutritional intakes and associated factors among tuberculosis patients: a community-based cross-sectional study in China
Authors: ren zhewen , Zhao Fei , Chen Hui , Hu Dongmei , Yu Wentao , Xu Xiaoli , Lin Dingwen , Luo Fuyi , Fan Yueling , Wang Haijun , Cheng Jun , Zhao Liyun
Published: June 2019

Background: This study evaluated nutrient intakes of tuberculosis (TB) patients and examine their associated factors. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 300 adult TB patients were enrolled in two impoverished counties in China. Nutrient intakes were evaluated through two consecutive 24-h dietary recalls and compared with the Chinese Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) 2013. Corresponding information for local general population was derived from 2015 China Health and Nutrition Survey. Results: The mean daily energy (1655.0 kcal in males, 1360.3 kcal in females) and protein (44.6 g in males, 35.9 g in females) intakes of TB patients were below Recommend Nutrient Intake (RNI) and Adequate Intake (AI) in both genders, and intakes of many micronutrients, except for vitamin E and sodium, were insufficient. Compared with those for local general population, TB patients’ intakes of all the macronutrients and micronutrients were lower (p<0.05) except total fat. In addition, Proportions of people with macronutrient or micronutrient intakes lower than RNI/AI were higher in TB patients than in general population except for Vitamin E intake. Being unemployed was a risk factor for low energy intake (p<0.05) and out-home-eating was a protective factor for low protein intake (p<0.01). Conclusions: In impoverished areas in China, intakes of macronutrients and most micronutrients in TB patients were less than those in general population. They were also inadequate compared with DRIs, especially in unemployed patients and patients eating at home. These findings suggested that the public health actions are needed to promote education on TB patients about significance of nutritional support, and, further interventions in TB patients’ nutritional intakes are also required.
Evaluation of Dimensional Accuracy of 3D printed mandibular model using two different Additive Manufacturing Techniques based on Ultra-Low Dose Multislice Computed Tomography scan data
Authors: Hesham Noran Mohamed , Kandel Hossam , Dakhli Iman Ismail
Published: June 2019

Article Type : Research article Corrective and reconstructive cranio-maxillofacial interventions are a challenging area of surgery that requires careful pre-operative planning. To accommodate the need for precision pre-operative planning, surgeons frequently need guidance such as a 3D model to display complex cranial structures. 3D model is a manufactured model made by a 3D printer using digital imaging and communication for medicine (DICOM) data from a CT scan, and then, converted into computer-assisted design (CAD) data. Image acquisition is a very important step in generation of 3D objects as the quality of the object depends on the quality of the data. MSCT is widely applied for rapid prototyping because image post-processing is less complex for MSCT data.This aim of the present study is to evaluate the dimensional accuracy of the 3D printed mandibular models fabricated by two different additive manufacturing techniques using highly precise one as selective laser sintering (SLS) and low-cost one as fused filament fabrication and whether they are both comparable in terms of precision.In this diagnostic accuracy study , 7 mandibular models will be recruited for the study, 10 linear measurements will be determined on the models. MSCT scanning of the model will be performed. afterwards 3d printing of the scanned image will be done using SLS and FFF 3d printers. the predetermined 10 linear measurement will be measured on the printed models to be compared with the reference standard measurement to determine the accuracy of the 3d printers in dental applications like surgical guides, orthodontic appliances, fixed prosthodontics appliances and other many dental applications. The study is scheduled to be done by october 2020Article Type : Protocol for diagnostic accuracy study
Bone mineral density status and the need for anti-osteoporotic therapy in postmenopausal women with systemic scleroderma
Authors: Dobrovolskaya O. V. , Demin N. V. , Smirnov A. V. , Toroptsova N. V.
Published: June 2019

The article is devoted to the study of bone mineral density in patients with systemic scleroderma (SSD) and the identification of persons, who needs the anti-osteoporotic treatment. A total of 170 postmenopausal women were examined: 103 patients with SSD and 67 patients without inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Osteoporosis (OP) was detected in 49.5% in the patient group and in 31% in the control group (p <0.05). The correlation relation between the bone mineral density (BMD) and body mass index was found to be direct, and the one between BMD and the duration of the disease and the cumulative dose of glucocorticoids was found to be inverse. The blood vitamin D level (25(OH)D) was significantly lower in patients than in controls (19.3 ± 7.4 ng/ml and 23.3 ± 8.6 ng/ml, respectively), and among individuals with SSD it was significantly lower in patients with OP than in patients without OP (p <0.05). 85% examined patients with SSD needed the anti-osteoporotic therapy. Treatment with the generic alendronate in the form of effervescent tablets to prepare Binosto buffer solution was effective and safe in patients with SSD with esophageal hypotension.
Efficacy of Theraflex Chondrocream Forte in the combination treatment of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Svetlova M. S.
Published: June 2019

The problem of osteoarthritis treatment appears especially relevant today due to high prevalence of the disease and unsafety of drugs used by patients to relieve pain. Knee joints are affected most often. The chronic pain and joint functional disorder worsen dramatically the patients’ quality of life and result in destabilization of coexisting diseases. Topical drugs are commonly used in the combination treatment of osteoarthritis. The article presents research results of efficacy of Theraflex Chondrocream Forte in the combination treatment of knee lesions. The use of the drug results in a more rapid and effective relief of pain and improvementof knee joints function in osteoarthritis.
Comorbid infections in rheumatic diseases (according to FSBI RIR named after V.A. Nasonova)
Authors: Bukhanova D. V. , Belov B. S. , Tarasova G. M. , Soloviev S. K. , Ananyeva L. P. , Popkova T. V. , Gordeev A. V. , Muravyov Yu. V. , Glukhova S. I.
Published: June 2019

Aim. Study of spectrum, frequency and risk factors of comorbid infections in rheumatic diseases (RD) in the stationary contingent of patients hospitalized in the FSBI RIR named after V.A. Nasonova within 1 year.

Patients and methods. The study included 245 patients with RD: 122 patients suffered from rheumatoid arthritis, 62 - systemic lupus erythematosus, 61 - systemic scleroderma. All patients were interviewed by a doctor-researcher and filled in a questionnaire. If necessary, additional information was obtained during the analysis of medical records.

Results. In the spectrum of infections in patients with RD, respiratory tract and ENT infections prevailed. The frequency of serious infections (SI) during RD in the studied cohort was 23.7–38.1%. The frequency of certain infections, including SI, is influenced by the duration and variant of RD, comorbid diseases and immunosuppressive therapy.

Conclusions: the data obtained indicate the importance of infections in rheumatology. A high percentage of RD exacerbation against the background of infection, the prevalence of respiratory tract infections, including SI, dictate the need for vaccine prophylaxis at the early stages of RD.
International Seminar Review Notes Dismissal Protection in the BRICS Countries
Authors: Chikireva I.
Published: June 2019

Legal scholars from Brazil, South Africa and Russia gathered in Saint Petersburg on 25 January 2019 to attend the International Legal Science Seminar hosted by the Department of Labor Law and Labor Protection at Saint Petersburg State University.

This review is prepared based on the material in the presentations provided by the speakers at the International Legal Science Seminar.
Highlighting the Role of Cognitive and Brain Reserve in the Substance use Disorder Field
Authors: Cutuli D. , Ladrón de Guevara-Miranda D. , Castilla-Ortega E. , Santín L.J. , Sampedro-Piquero P.
Published: June 2019

Background:

Cognitive reserve (CR) refers to the ability of an individual to cope with brain pathology remaining free of cognitive symptoms. This protective factor has been related to compensatory and more efficient brain mechanisms involved in resisting brain damage. For its part, Brain reserve (BR) refers to individual differences in the structural properties of the brain which could also make us more resilient to suffer from neurodegenerative and mental diseases.

Objective:

This review summarizes how this construct, mainly mediated by educational level, occupational attainment, physical and mental activity, as well as successful social relationships, has gained scientific attention in the last years with regard to diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke or traumatic brain injury. Nevertheless, although CR has been studied in a large number of disorders, few researches have addressed the role of this concept in drug addiction.

Methods:

We provide a selective overview of recent literature about the role of CR and BR in preventing substance use onset. Likewise, we will also discuss how variables involved in CR (healthy leisure, social support or job-related activities, among others) could be trained and included as complementary activities of substance use disorder treatments.

Results:

Evidence about this topic suggests a preventive role of CR and BR on drug use onset and when drug addiction is established, these factors led to less severe addiction-related problems, as well as better treatment outcomes.

Conclusion:

CR and BR are variables not taken yet into account in drug addiction. However, they could give us a valuable information about people at risk, as well as patient’s prognosis.
Evaluating Radioprotection of Rat’s Jejunum by a Combination of Melatonin and Metformin
Authors: Azar Nasim Ahmadi , Javadi Abdolreza , Najafi Masoud , Shirazi Alireza , Tajabadi Elham , Shabeeb Dheyauldeen , Musa Ahmed Eleojo
Published: June 2019

Background:

ejunum is one of the most radiosensitive parts of the gastrointestinal
system. This is the main issue, leading to several side effects to patients with abdominal cancers, in
addition to affecting their quality of life. Epithelial layer and clonogenic cells in the jejunum are the
most sensitive parts of the intestine, while damage to vascular may lead to chronic inflammation and
bleeding. Both melatonin and metformin have shown abilities to attenuate radiation toxicities
through the modulation of DNA damage responses, neutralization of free radicals and alleviation of
inflammation. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the possible radioprotective effects of melatonin
and metformin when administered either alone or as a combination, in rat’s jejunum against a high
dose of radiation.

Methods:

40 male rats were divided into 8 groups as G1: control; G2: metformin; G3: melatonin;
G4: melatonin + metformin; G5: radiation; G6: radiation + melatonin; G7: radiation + metformin;
G8: metformin + melatonin + radiation. Rats were irradiated with 10 Gy gamma rays, while
treatments were administered at 100 mg/kg. The ratio for melatonin and metformin was 1:1. 3.5 days
after irradiation, all rats were sacrificed, followed by histopathological evaluation of the jejunum.

Results:

This study showed that whole body irradiation of rats led to severe injuries to the epithelial
and vascular of jejunum. A single administration of either melatonin or metformin was unable to
mitigate radiation toxicity. However, administering the combination of melatonin and metformin
could mildly mitigate radiation-induced jejunum injury.

Conclusion:

From the results of this study, we suggest that the combination of melatonin and
metformin has superior radioprotective effect for jejunum compared with the single administration of
these drugs.
Reed Membrane as a Novel Immobilization Matrix for the Development of an Optical Phenol Biosensor
Authors: Li Yongjin
Published: June 2019

Background:

Biocompatible and easily available immobilization matrix is vital for the
construction of enzyme-based biosensor.

Methods:

Reed membrane was selected as a novel immobilization matrix to construct an optical
phenol biosensor. Tyrosinase from mushroom was immobilized in a reed membrane using glutaraldehyde
as a cross-linker. The detection scheme was based on the measurement of the color intensity
of the adduct resulting from the reaction of 3-methyl-2-benzothiazolinone hydrazone (MBTH) with
the quinone produced from the oxidation of phenol by tyrosinase. The performance of such method
including specificity, sensitivity, repeatability and practical use were validated.

Results:

The prepared biosensor demonstrated optimum performance at pH 6-7, temperature of 40°C
and a linear response in the phenol concentration range of 5-100 μM. It also showed good operation
stability for repeated measurements (over 200 times) and good storage stability after it had been kept
at 4°C for 2 months.

Conclusion:

Reed membrane is a novel matrix for immobilization of enzyme. The prepared biosensor
permits good sensitivity, reproducibility and stability. It is anticipated that reed membrane is a
promising solid support for fabricating other enzyme-based biosensors.
Incidence of Breast Cancer in Markazi, Iran, Population-based Cancer Registry Results
Authors: Taheri Majid , Nazari Javad , Anoshirvani Ali Arash , Aghabozorgi Reza , Bahrami Masoud , Hashiani Amir Almasi
Published: June 2019

Background:

Breast Cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignancy and a significant cause of cancer deaths in females all around the world. BC includes 16 percent of all cancers.

Objective:

This study aimed at examining the epidemiology of BC in Markazi.

Materials and Methods:

This was an epidemiological study in which data resulted from the population-based cancer registry program in Markazi, Iran was used during the years 2010-2014. Data was recorded in Excel software and coded based on ICD-O and all duplicate reports were removed according to their unique codes. All cases out of Markazi were excluded from study and cases with code C-50 (all BC) were included in this study. SPSS ver.18 was used to analyze the data.

Results:

In this study, 1,254 new cases of BC in Markazi were included in the analysis. The highest cancer rate was reported in 2012 (319 cases). The highest crude rate of BC was reported in 2012 (45/100,000 people) and the lowest crude rate was reported in 2010 (26.2 /100,000 people). The Age-Specific Rates (ASR) of BC were 27, 37.3, 45.7, 39.8 and 31.5 per 100.000 people in 2010 to 2014, respectively. The highest ASR of BC was reported in 2012 (45.7/100,000 people) and the lowest ASR was reported in 2010 (27/100,000 people).

Conclusion:

The results showed similar incidence rate of BC in Markazi as compared to other provinces in Iran. Efficient approaches should be considered for cancer registry systems especially BC.
Naringenin Scaffold as a Template for Drug Designing
Authors: Murti Yogesh , Semwal Bhupesh Chander , Goyal Ahsas , Mishra Pradeep
Published: June 2019

Natural products provide cornucopia of heterocyclic systems. The nucleus of 2-
phenyl chromane is one of the important and well-known heterocycles found in the natural
products. Naringenin, a plant-derived flavanone (2-phenyl chroman-4-one) belongs to the family
of flavanoids. It possesses diverse biologic activities such as antidiabetic, antiatherogenic,
antidepressant, antiandrogenic, antiestrogenic, immunomodulatory, antitumor, antimicrobial,
anti-inflammatory, antiviral, hypolipidemic, antihypertensive, antioxidant, neuroprotective,
anti-obesity, anti-Alzheimer, and memory enhancer activity. It has the potential to be used as
an active pharmacophore. There have been reports of a number of molecular mechanisms
underlying their beneficial activities. With emerging interest in traditional medicine and
exploiting their potential based on a variety of health care systems, naringenin literature was
thought to be explored. Further, this review aims to provide a new era of flavonoid-based
therapeutic agents with new insights into naringenin and its derivatives as a lead compound
in drug design.
Advances in Electrolytes for High Capacity Rechargeable Lithium-Sulphur Batteries
Authors: Ud Din Mir Mehraj , Ramakumar Sampathkumar , Santhakumari Indu Muraleedharan , Murugan Ramaswamy
Published: June 2019

Reliable energy storage is a censorious need for an extensive range of requisite such as portable electronic devices, transportation, medical devices, spacecraft and elsewhere. Among the known storage devices, the lithium ion (Li+) batteries have enticed attention because of higher theoretical energy density. Nevertheless, the state-of-the-art electrolyte in lithium batteries utilizing a Li+ salt dissolved in organic-type solvents poses severe safety concerns like flammability arising from dendrite formation. Next generation (beyond Li+) battery systems such as lithium sulphur (Li-S) batteries have gained interest in recent times. This battery system has been extensively revisited in an attempt to develop high energy batteries and is now considered as the technology of choice for hybrid vehicle electrification and grid storage. Higher theoretical capacity and higher theoretical energy density, environmental friendliness and low cost of active material make the Li-S batteries an ideal candidate to meet increasing energy requirements. This review looks at various advanced electrolytic systems with much emphasis on solid state electrolytic systems for Li-S batteries because of their striking properties. The technical issues of the sulphur cathode are also summarized and the strategies followed in recent years are highlighted in this review to address these issues. It is anticipated that Li-S batteries with efficient solid electrolytic system may replace the conventional insertion-type low energy density Li+ batteries in the near future.
Local development applied to energy scheme
Authors: Pérez Antonio Vázquez , Viteri Carlos Gustavo F. Villacreses , Gámez María Rodríguez , Ramos Jorge Líder Macías
Published: June 2019

Manabí is a province with great potential, either in the agri-food sector or in the renewable generation of energy. However, the limitations inherited from traditional development models prevent achieving the sustainable development of this territory. This paper proposes a development model at the local level, aimed at achieving equity and, through the use of renewable energy sources and other potentials present in specific territories, to improve the quality of life and reduce the risks of societies present there. Through geographic information systems, it was possible to generate and display on maps information related to the energy demand at the provincial and cantonal levels, as well as the province's energy behavior considering the population density.
Using Telemedicine to Diagnose Surgical Site Infections in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Systematic Review
Authors: Sandberg Charlotte E J , Knight Stephen R , Qureshi Ahmad Uzair , Pathak Samir
Published: June 2019

Background

A high burden of preventable morbidity and mortality due to surgical site infections (SSIs) occurs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and most of these SSIs occur following discharge. There is a high loss to follow-up due to a wide geographical spread of patients, and cost of travel can result in delayed and missed diagnoses.

Objective

This review analyzes the literature surrounding the use of telemedicine and assesses the feasibility of using mobile phone technology to both diagnose SSIs remotely in LMICs and to overcome social barriers.

Methods

A literature search was performed using Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Google Scholar. Included were English language papers reporting the use of telemedicine for detecting SSIs in comparison to the current practice of direct clinical diagnosis. Papers were excluded if infections were not due to surgical wounds, or if SSIs were not validated with in-person diagnosis. The primary outcome of this review was to review the feasibility of telemedicine for remote SSI detection.

Results

A total of 404 articles were screened and three studies were identified that reported on 2082 patients across three countries. All studies assessed the accuracy of remote diagnosis of SSIs using predetermined telephone questionnaires. In total, 44 SSIs were accurately detected using telemedicine and an additional 14 were picked up on clinical follow-up.

Conclusions

The use of telemedicine has shown to be a feasible method in remote diagnosis of SSIs. Telemedicine is a useful adjunct for clinical practice in LMICs to decrease loss to postsurgical follow-up.
Evaluating Thrombin Inhibition in Alzheimer’s Disease (The BEACON Trial): Protocol for a Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Santos Cláudia Yang , Getter Christine , Stoukides John , Ott Brian , Salloway Stephen , Petrini Michaela , Garcia Miguel , Rehehan William , Machan Jason , Grammas Paula
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The precise mechanisms whereby cardiovascular risk factors increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have not been delineated. We reported that microvessels isolated from AD brains overexpress a diverse array of neurotoxic and inflammatory proteins, which is consistent with the process of vascular activation. In pre-clinical studies using AD animal models we showed that a vascular activation inhibitor reduced vascular-derived neuroinflammation and improved cognitive performance. Thrombin is a key mediator of cerebrovascular activation in AD.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the safety and potential efficacy of the direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran, in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild AD to decrease vascular-derived neuroinflammation and improve cognitive performance.

METHODS

Participants will be enrolled then evaluated quarterly throughout the 24-month study. This is a 24-month randomized-control, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, delayed-start, pilot study evaluating thrombin inhibition in people with biomarker-confirmed MCI probably due to AD or mild AD. 40 - 60 participants will be recruited between 50 - 85 years old. In the initial 9-months of study, either dabigatran or placebo will be orally administered to patients at a dose of 150 mg per day. After 9 months of the placebo-control (Phase I), the placebo arm will cross-over to an active, open-label (Phase II) where all patients will be treated with a 150 mg daily dose of dabigatran orally for an additional 12 months. A 3-month non-treatment follow-up period will assess duration of effects.

RESULTS

Beginning in July 2019, and concluding in August 2022, this study is expected to publish final results in January 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

BEACON is a first-in-kind randomized clinical trial targeting thrombin activation in AD therapeutics. This trial will stimulate translational investigations of an FDA-approved drugs in a newly defined therapeutic areas.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03752294
Testing a Real-Time Tenofovir Urine Adherence Assay for Monitoring and Providing Feedback to Preexposure Prophylaxis in Kenya (PUMA): Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Drain Paul , Ngure Kenneth , Mugo Nelly , Spinelli Matthew , Chatterjee Purba , Bacchetti Peter , Glidden David , Baeten Jared , Gandhi Monica
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The worldwide expansion of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with oral tenofovir-disoproxil-fumarate/emtricitabine will be critical to ending the HIV epidemic. However, maintaining daily adherence to PrEP can be difficult, and the accuracy of self-reported adherence is often limited by social desirability bias. Pharmacologic adherence monitoring (measuring drug levels in a biomatrix) has been critical to interpreting PrEP trials, but testing usually requires expensive equipment and skilled personnel. We have recently developed a point-of-care (POC) immunoassay to measure tenofovir in urine, allowing real-time adherence monitoring for the first time.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study is to examine a point-of-care adherence metric in PrEP to support and increase adherence via a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

The paper describes the protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial to test the acceptability, feasibility, and impact on long-term adherence of implementing a POC urine test to provide real-time adherence feedback among women on PrEP. Eligible women (n=100) will be HIV-negative, ≥18 years old, and recruited from a clinic in Kenya that provides PrEP. Participants will be randomized 1:1 to the intervention of providing real-time feedback via the assay versus standard of care adherence counseling. Acceptability by participants will be assessed by a quantitative survey, as well as by qualitative data collected via in-depth interviews (n=20) and focus group discussions (n=4 groups, 5-10 women each). Feasibility will be assessed by the proportion of women retained in the study, the mean number of missed visits, the proportion of planned urine assessments completed, and messages delivered, while in-depth interviews with providers (n=8) will explore the ease of administering the urine test. Tenofovir levels in hair will serve as long-term adherence metrics. A linear mixed-effects model will estimate the effect of the intervention versus standard of care on logarithmically transformed levels of tenofovir in hair.

RESULTS

This study has been funded by the National Institute of Health, approved by the Kenya Medical Research Institute Institutional Review Board, and will commence in June 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

A novel urine assay to measure and deliver information on adherence to PrEP in real-time will be tested for the first time in this trial planned among women on PrEP in Kenya. Study findings will inform a larger-scale trial assessing the impact of real-time adherence monitoring/feedback on HIV prevention. Improving adherence to PrEP will have long-term implications for efforts to end the HIV epidemic worldwide.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03935464; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03935464

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/15029
The Geo-Economic and Geo-Energy Pillar of Power as a Geopolitical Decision Making Factor within the Dynamics of the Southeastern Europe Geopolitical Complex
Authors: Deniozos Nikolaos , Vlados Charis M. , Chatzinikolaou Dimos , Digkas Agis
Published: June 2019

The “geopolitical complex” of Southeastern Europe, as a sub-system of the Europe-Asia-Middle East system, highlights its geo-economic dimension since the discovery of hydrocarbons in this geographical area has become a major geopolitical factor, resulting to competitions, conflicts, and strategic alliances among different actors/players. In this context, the particular space and time play an essential role, since the decision-making process has become a vital determinant of the necessary geostrategic synthesis under conditions of uncertainty and risk. This article approaches the subject under consideration by applying quantitative decision-making methods under uncertainty and/or limited uncertainty (risk) conditions by actors/players of the region; it examines the choice of alternative strategies that highlight not only the maximization of the actors’ geopolitical benefits but also provides added value to already formed strategic alliances. It also attempts to answer the question of how the construction of an LNG terminal can generate multiple benefits from its location and operation by presenting a theoretical model.
Literasi Digital: Prospek dan Implikasinya dalam Pembelajaran Bahasa
Authors: Harjono Hary Soedarto
Published: June 2019

Abstrak

Artikel ini mengetengahkan gagasan awal mengenai prospek dan implikasi literasi digital dalam konteks pembelajaran bahasa. Sejalan dengan pesatnya perkembangan teknologi informasi dan komunikasi, tuntutan pembelajaran bahasa pada era milenial ini tidak saja mensyaratkan penguasaan kemampuan membaca, menulis, dan berhitung, melainkan juga penguasaan teknologi digital yang didukung kemampuan komunikasi dan keterampilan analitik.  Penguasaan literasi digital dalam konteks pembelajaran dapat  mengefisienkan, memudahkan, dan menguatkan proses dan hasil pendidikan. Pada konteks ini, penguasaan literasi digital memungkinkan pembelajar meningkatkan kompetensi kognitif, afektif, dan psikomotor melalui aktivitas belajar yang lebih baik, lebih cepat, lebih mudah, dan menyenangkan.

 

Kata Kunci: Literasi digital, pembelajaran bahasa

 

Abstract

This article focuses on the initial idea of the prospects and the implications of digital literacy in language learning context. In line with the rapid development of information and communication technology, the demands of language learning in this millennial era not only requires a mastery of reading skills, writing, and arithmetic, but also mastery of digital technology supported by communication skills and analytical skills.  Digital literacy in this sense is just like a powerful tool in strengthening process and outcomes of education. In this context, the mastery of digital literacy allows learners to improve their cognitive competencies, affective and psychomotor skills through more effective and interesting learning activities.

 

Keywords: Digital Literacy, language learning
Reflexões sobre o ensino híbrido como uma inovação disruptiva para a educação
Authors: Knauth Débora Schuck
Published: June 2019

A obra aqui analisada, originalmente publicada sob o título “Blended: Using disruptive innovation to improve schools”, apresenta um largo estudo e levantamento de dados de instituições educacionais que vem utilizando o ensino híbrido para aprimorar a educação. O livro traz problematizações e possibilidades através de modelos pedagógicos que utilizam o ensino híbrido. A obra original é dividida em quatro partes: 1) entendimento; 2) mobilização; 3) planejamento; e 4) implementação. Ainda, diversos materiais de apoio, como vídeos, tabelas, esquemas e resumos auxiliam na compreensão da teoria e da prática por trás das inovações na educação. O presente texto, buscou desenvolver uma resenha crítica do livro em questão.