bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effects of N-acetylcysteine on myocardial injury induced by acute fluctuations in blood glucose
Authors: Zhang Wei , Peng Guanjing , Zhao Sheng , Li Yan , Han Ping , Li Yongzhi
Published: May 2020

Background: To investigate the effect of N -acetylcysteine (NAC) on oxidative stress and inflammation induced by acute fluctuations in blood glucose and the potential mechanism. Methods : Cannulated Wistar rats (n=6/group) were infused intravenously for 48 h with (1) saline (control), (2) 50% glucose intermittently (IHG), (3) 50% glucose continuously (PHG), (4) IHG plus NAC, or (5) PHG plus NAC. Levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF) in cardiac tissues were analyzed. We also evaluated apoptosis in the myocardium using a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Results : The IHG group had higher levels of oxidative and inflammatory markers in the myocardium than the PHG and control groups. Co-infusion with NAC prevented the elevation in inflammatory markers and NF-κB activity in the IHG + NAC and PHG + NAC groups. Apoptosis of myocardial cells was observed in the IHG group but was abolished by co-administration of NAC. Conclusions : Acute fluctuations in blood glucose levels induced more severe oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in the myocardium than persistently high blood glucose levels. The antioxidant NAC may prevent apoptosis of myocardial cells caused by fluctuations in blood glucose levels in vivo , most likely because of its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.
The relationship between delivery mode and postpartum depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Yu-Xin , Zhao Pei , Jiesisibieke ZhuLiduzi , Chen Pei-En , Tung Tao-Hsin , Chien Ching-Wen
Published: May 2020

Background: To assess the relationship between delivery mode and postpartum depression and to examine whether cesarean section (CS) has a higher risk of postpartum depression than vaginal delivery (VD). Methods: We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and EMBASE from inception to 30 April 2019 without language limitations. Two authors independently selected studies, assessed the quality of included studies, and extracted data. Any disagreements were resolved by discussion with a third author. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and GRADE methods to assess the quality of the included studies and evidences. This study had four included cohort studies data and carried out fixed-effect model meta-analysis. Results: The findings demonstrated a significant difference in the risk of postpartum depression between CS and VD. Compared with the control group, the CS group was associated with a higher prevalence of postpartum depression symptoms (Risk Ratio =1.29; 95% CI: 1.11-1.51). Conclusions: The findings supported a relationship between delivery mode and postpartum depression. Particularly, we found that CS is associated with a higher risk of postpartum depression. Therefore, we ought to encourage pregnant women who are without medical indication of CS to select VD.r Trial registration: The protocol of this systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO under the number CRD42019148154.
Acteoside counteracts interleukin-1β-induced catabolic processes through the modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and the NFκB cellular signaling pathway
Authors: Lim HyangI , Kim Do Kyung , Kim Tae-Hyeon , Kang Kyeong-Rok , Seo Jeong-Yeon , Cho Sung Sik , Yun Younghee , Choi Ye-yong , Leem Jungtae , Kim Hyoun-Woo , Cho Geon-Ung , Oh Chan-Jin , Oh Deuk-Sil , Chun Hong-Sung , kim jae-sung
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To verify the anti-catabolic effects of acteoside [α-L-rhamnosyl-(1->3)-β-D-glucoside] against osteoarthritis and its anti-catabolic signaling pathway.
Methods

Primary rat chondrocytes were isolated enzymatically from the articular cartilage of rat knee joint. Cytotoxicity of acteoside was assessed by MTT and Cell Live/Dead assay. Proteoglycan content was measured by dimethylmethylene blue assay. The proteoglycan loss was assessed by histological analysis using safranin-O & fast green staining after ex vivo organ culture of articular cartilage. The alteration of catabolic factors such as cartilage degrading enzymes, pro-inflammation cytokines, and inflammatory mediators were assessed by qPCR, qRT-PCR, gelatin zymography, western blot, and cytokine array. Cellular signaling pathways were investigated by western blot and nucleus translocation. Acteoside was orally administrated to osteoarthritic animals generated by the destabilization of medial meniscus at the knee joint of mice for 8 weeks. Thereafter, proteoglycan loss was assessed by safranin-O & fast green staining.
Results

Acteoside did not decrease the viabilities of mouse fibroblast L929 cells used as a normal cells and primary rat chondrocytes. Acteoside counteracted the IL-1β-induced proteoglycan loss in the chondrocytes and articular cartilage through suppressing the expression and activation of cartilage-degrading enzyme such as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, MMP-1, and MMP-3. Furthermore, acteoside suppressed the expression of inflammatory mediators such as inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, nitric oxide, and prostaglandin E2 in the primary rat chondrocytes treated with IL-1β. Subsequently, the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was decreased by acteoside in the primary rat chondrocytes treated with IL-1β. Moreover, acteoside suppressed not only the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases in primary rat chondrocytes treated with IL-1β but also the translocation of NFκB from the cytosol to the nucleus through suppression of its phosphorylation. Oral administration of 5 and 10 mg/kg acteoside attenuated the progressive degeneration of articular cartilage in the osteoarthritic mouse model generated by destabilization of the medial meniscus.
Conclusion

Our findings indicate that acteoside is a promising potential anti-catabolic agent or supplement to attenuate or prevent progressive degeneration of articular cartilage.
A decline and age shift in malaria incidence in rural Mali following implementation of seasonal malaria chemoprevention and indoor residual spraying
Authors: Coulibaly Drissa , Guindo Boureima , Niangaly Amadou , Maiga Fayçal , Konate Salimata , Kodio Aly , Diallo Astou , Antar Abdou Tahirou Mohamed , Kone Abdoulaye K , Traore Karim , Travassos Mark , Doumbo Ogobara K , Thera Mahamadou A
Published: May 2020

BackgroundDeclines in malaria incidence attributed to the implementation of control strategies have been reported in many African countries. The declines are often accompanied by a shift in clinical burden to older children. In Mali, artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) was introduced in 2004, and Long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) have been partially distributed free of charge since 2007. In Bandiagara, a study conducted from 2009 to 2013 showed a stable incidence of malaria compared to 1999 despite the use of ACTs and LLINs. Since 2016, seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) has been scaled up across the country. In addition to these strategies, the population of Bandiagara benefited the universal bed net coverage and indoor residual spray (IRS) implementation in 2017 and 2018.This study aimed to measure the incidence of malaria in the context of recent scaling-up of control strategies.MethodsA cohort of 300 children aged 6 months to 15 years was followed from October 2017 to December 2018 in Mali. Monthly cross-sectional surveys were done to measure the prevalence of malaria infection by microscopy and anaemia. The study outcomes included the monthly prevalence of malaria infection and the incidence of symptomatic malaria.ResultsThe incidence of symptomatic malaria was 0.5 episodes/person-year. The average prevalence of malaria parasitaemia was 6.7%. The incidence was higher in the oldest age group than the youngest one (0.6 episodes/person-year in children above 10 years vs 0.29 in 6 months to 5 years age group).ConclusionsThis study showed a reduction of malaria incidence compared to 1999 and 2009-2013. An age shift in the susceptibility to malaria was also observed; older children experienced more clinical malaria than younger ones. These findings suggest to extend malaria control efforts to older children.
Incidental 18F-FDG PET/CT finding of COVID-1 pneumonia in asymptomatic patient diagnosed with lung abscess metastasis
Authors: Mestre-Fusco Antoni , Velasco-Nuño Mònica , Negre-Busó Montserrat , Ferran Núria , Juanpere Sergi , Rubió Antoni
Published: May 2020

A 66-year-old male patient, with chronic respiratory disease and right colon resection in March 2017 for colon low-grade adenocarcinoma was assessed for recurrence suggested by elevated levels of tumor marker and no evidence of oncological disease by CT scan. 18F-FDG PET/CT showed bilateral multiple peripheral FDG-avid foci that matched with a peripheral predominant ground-glass opacities (GGOs) observed in lower lobes and multiple FDG-positive enlarged lymph nodes were also identified in the mediastinum. Patient was hospitalized in March 14th 2020, one day after PET/CT scan, with cough, wheezing and fever, and was treated with anti-inflammatory drugs. A first SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR in March 15th resulted as negative and patient was treated with antibiotic therapy lead to an improvement of respiratory symptoms. PET/CT scan was interpreted as a pneumonia foci. A deteriorating patient condition was observed, with respiratory symptomatology progression, fatigue and D-Dimer elevation and a new RT-PCR resulted positive. A week after PET/CT scan, hospitalization in intensive care unit was necessary for rapidly disease progression and severe respiratory distress syndrome and patient died four days later.
How to conduct post-graduate training of general practitioners in performing articular or abarticular corticosteroid injections in the knee and shoulder joints? Analysis of the current training courses, literature review and implementation of a new training program
Authors: Vrignaud Arthur , Dernis Emmanuelle
Published: May 2020

Background: While several studies have shown the usefulness and effectiveness of articular and abarticular corticosteroid injections performed by general practitioners, the main limitation that has been identified in expanding the use of these acts in everyday practice lies in a lack of training. Thus, this study aimed to determine the best settings for training courses concerning this subject.Methods: Our study was composed of two parts: the first one consisted in a survey concerning the improvements induced by training courses in the context of continuing medical education on the participants’ skills and degree of confidence, the second part was a review of the published literature about this topic.Results: As expected, every training program analysed through our survey generated improvements in the participants’ confidence in performing articular or abarticular injections. Furthermore, these findings are reflected in an increase in the proportion of such skills that the trainees complete by themselves. These results were reinforced by similar findings raised by the literature review. Moreover, it highlighted that hands-on training courses seemed to be the most efficient and that the use of synthetic models appeared to be a suitable alternative to human bodies or corpses, surrounded by less ethical and logistic concerns.Conclusion: This study supports the expansion of training courses for general practitioners on articular and abarticular injections. It also suggests that they should be based on a hands-on training design, possibly with the use of manikins.
Magnitude and Performance of Percentage Body Fat and Fat Mass Index in Determining Overweight/Obesity among University Undergraduate Students in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana. 
Authors: Obirikorang Christian , Acheampong Emmanuel , Anto Enoch Odame , Obirikorang Yaa , Fynn Angela Nana Bosowah , Osei-Somuah George , Amoah Brodrick Yeboah , Busumbru Eunice Adwubi , Appiah Michael , Adu Evans Asamoah , Acheampng Emmanuella Nsenbah , Gyamfi Daniel
Published: May 2020

Background: Anthropometric indices such as body mass index (BMI) is a widely used index of adiposity across clinical settings, yet there are limitations regarding their estimates of body fat. We determined the magnitude and the performance of fat mass index (FMI), and percentage body fat (PBF) for determining obesity among undergraduate students in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana. Methods: This University community-based cross-sectional study included 1,552 undergraduate students (700 males and 852 females) aged 15–29 years from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. Anthropometric measurements and bioelectrical impedance analyses were performed. Data on sociodemographic and lifestyle-related characteristics were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Results: Comparing male to female students, the age-standardised prevalence of overweight/obesity was 10.8%/3.5% vs. 19.3%/7.6% (p<0.0001) for BMI criterion, 16.4%/8.5% vs. 21.9%/19.9% (p<0.0001) for PBF criterion and 16.0%/9.2 vs. 21.2%/22.0% for FMI criterion (p<0.0001), respectively. There was a stronger agreement between PBF and FMI in the classification of overweight and obesity in terms of males (kappa=0.855) and females (kappa=0.865) but a weak agreement between BMI and PBF and between BMI and FMI. About 29.3% of males and 61.4% of the females categorized as normal weight by BMI were identified as overweight by PBF. Similarly, 3.0% of male and 1.3% of females defined as normal weight by BMI were obese when examined by PBF. FMI can be predicted from BMI and BMI2 with much accuracy (mean bias = -0.1). Conclusion: The inconsistency observed between BMI and PBF reflects a limitation of BMI. FMI accurately assessed obesity with many conveniences as BMI to the same extent.
A new statistical approach to model the counts of novel coronavirus cases
Authors: El-Morshedy M. , Altun Emrah , Eliwa M. S.
Published: May 2020

This study proposes new statistical tools to analyze the counts of the daily coronavirus cases and deaths. Since the daily new cases and deaths exhibit highly overdispersion, we introduce a new two-parameter discrete distribution, called \textit{discrete generalized Lindley}, which enables us to model all kinds of dispersion such as under, equi and overdispersion. Additionally, we introduce a new count regression model based on the proposed distribution to investigate the effects of the important risk factors on the counts of deaths for OECD countries. Three data sets are analyzed with proposed models and competitive models. Empirical findings show that air pollution, the proportion of obesity, and smokers in a population do not affect the counts of deaths for OECD countries. The interesting empirical result is that the countries with having larger alcohol consumption have lower counts of deaths.
In-situ fixed bed denitrification in sequential biofiltration: laboratory testing of solid substrates
Authors: Filter Josefine , Bosinsky Christin , Kilinc Sefine Oksal , Ruhl Aki Sebastian , Jekel Martin
Published: May 2020

High nitrate concentrations in wastewater treatment plant effluents and aquifers can challenge sequential biofiltration systems in preventing nitrite and gas formation in the sand bed, as well as to achieve the regulated limit value for nitrate in potable water reuse applications. This study investigates the introduction of electron donors in the form of organic fixed bed materials as an in-situ anoxic zone into sequential biofiltration systems. Laboratory batch and column tests with straw, soft wood, peat, polylactic acid (PLA), and polycaprolacton (PCL) revealed incomplete denitrification with a hydraulic retention time below 10 h, high organic carbon leaching, especially during the first three months, and gas accumulation within the filter bed. Therefore, ex-situ denitrification prior to oxic biofilters or in a defined side-stream treatment is recommended. No enhanced transformation of trace organic chemicals was observed under nitrate reducing conditions. Peat revealed a sorption potential for 5-methyl-benzotriazole, carbamazepine, benzotriazole, and metoprolol.
Occurrence of cyanobacteria, actinomycetes, and geosmin in drinking water reservoir in Korea: a case study from an algal bloom in 2012
Authors: Lee Jung Eun , Youn Seok-Jae , Byeon Myeongseop , Yu Soon-Ju
Published: May 2020

In 2012, a large concentration of geosmin was found in the Paldang reservoir, which is the primary source of drinking water in Seoul, Korea. In June and September 2012, we measured the concentrations of cyanobacteria and actinomycetes, and geosmin, to identify the source of geosmin in the Paldang reservoir. A total of 68 water samples were collected from two sampling sites (Sambong, Paldang), and used to analyze the correlation between cyanobacteria, actinomycetes, and geosmin. The cell density attained a maximum of 24,722 cells/mL on August 11, 2012 and geosmin occurred at a high concentration of 3,934 ng/L on August 13 in Sambong. After July 31, 2012 a rapid increase in growth and cell density occurred with a peak value of 11,568 cells/mL on August 6, 2012. At the same time, the geosmin concentration increased to 3,157 ng/L in Paldang. The number of cyanobacteria positively correlated with geosmin concentration (R2 = 0.84, P < 0.0001), while actinomycetes were not significantly correlated with geosmin (R2 = 0.01, P = 0.709). In addition, the number of actinomycetes was associated with increased turbidity (R = 0.507). Among the various water quality constituents, temperature affected cyanobacteria in the Paldang reservoir (R = 0.803). These results suggest that cyanobacteria are the main source of geosmin in the Paldang reservoir, which might be providing useful information for managing the unpleasant taste of its drinking water.
Prediction of nitrate concentration in Danube River water by using artificial neural networks
Authors: Stamenković Lidija J. , Mrazovac Kurilić Sanja , Presburger Ulniković Vladanka
Published: May 2020

This paper describes the development of a model based on artificial neural networks (ANN) which aims to predict the concentration of nitrates in river water. Another 26 water quality parameters were also monitored and used as input parameters. The models were trained and tested with data from ten monitoring stations on the Danube River, located in its course through Serbia, for the period from 2011 to 2016. Multilayer perceptron (MLP), standard three-layer network is used to develop models and two input variable selection techniques are used to reduce the number of input variables. The obtained results have shown the ability of ANN to predict the nitrate concentration in both developed models with a value of mean absolute error of 0.53 and 0.42 mg/L for the test data. Also, the application of IVS has contributed to reduce the number of input variables and to increase the performance of the model, especially in the case of variance inflation factor (VIF) analysis where the estimation of multicollinearity among variables and the elimination of excessive variables significantly influenced the prediction abilities of the ANN model, r – 0.91.
Application of Fe2O3/ZrO2 loaded polyhedron ball on photocatalytic degradation of diesel pollutants in seawater under visible light
Authors: Wang Liping , Yu Xiaocai , Liao Jiaqi , Xue Bining , Tian Siyao , Zhu Wanting
Published: May 2020

Fe2O3/ZrO2 nanocomposite photocatalyst was successfully prepared by coprecipitation method for the degradation of diesel pollutants in seawater under visible light. The effects of doping ratio, calcination temperature, photocatalyst dosage, initial diesel concentration, H2O2 concentration, and reaction time on the photocatalytic removal efficiency were investigated. Moreover, the optimal conditions for Fe2O3/ZrO2 nanocomposite photocatalyst to degrade marine diesel pollution were determined. The removal efficiency of diesel by nanocomposite photocatalyst could reach 97.03%. A photocatalyst-loaded polypropylene polyhedral ball was prepared, and the removal efficiency of diesel by photocatalyst-loaded polypropylene polyhedral ball decreased from 99.35 to 68.84% after four recycling cycles.
The Role of Exercise as a Treatment and Preventive Strategy during Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: YALÇIN Meltem , KOÇAK Elif , KACAR Mehtap
Published: May 2020

On 11 March 2020, World Health Organization has made the assessment that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic. COVID-19 is a usually self-limited infection but it can be present a severe and fatal disease in patients with comorbitidies and the elderly. The characteristics of the virus and general health condition of the host determine disease progression. Scientists have been investigating on the pathophysiology of this disease, diagnostic tools, effective treatment protocols, and the development a vaccine. Preventive strategies are as important as the treatment modalities. This review focuses on the pathophysiological mechanisms of COVID-19, in addition to the roles of exercise in the immunomodulatory mechanisms, host defense systems, and also prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Exercise exerts many important effects such as immunomodulation, augmented defense system on the immune system via mainly muscle derived myokines and increased cardiorespiratory endurance. COVID- 19 pandemic once again demonstrated the importance of prophylactic approaches such as healthy life, maintaining and strengthening of health, and immune system modulation. This pandemic may start a period in which humanity prioritizes healthy living principles, functional foods, maintaining health and welfare approaches, and increased effort to develop and maintain them.
Aldosterone and Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists on Pulmonary Hypertension and Right Ventricular Failure: A Review
Authors: Omidkhoda Navid , Vakilian Farveh , Mohammadpour Amir H. , Sathyapalan Thozhukat , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: May 2020

There is an increasing number of therapeutic agents being developed for the treatment of pulmonary
artery hypertension (PAH) which is a condition characterized by raised pulmonary artery pressure and right heart
failure. Despite our better understanding of the pathophysiology of PAH, the treatment outcomes are still suboptimal.
There is growing evidence suggesting the role of increases in the levels of aldosterone, which is a mineralocorticoid
hormone, in the pathophysiology of PAH; however, the extent to which hyperaldosteronism is associated
with PAH in patients is unclear. There are also a few studies assessing the effects of mineralocorticoid receptor
antagonists (MRA) in PAH. MRAs are a recognized treatment for heart failure and hypertension. In this review,
we focus on the relationship between aldosterone level in patients with PAH and right ventricular failure
and the effect of MRAs on the PAH severity.
Raman and Terahertz Spectroscopic Characterization of Solid-state Cocrystal Formation within Specific Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Authors: Du Yong , Xue Jiadan , Hong Zhi
Published: May 2020

:

Cocrystallization of specific active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the solid-state phase is becoming
a feasible way to improve their corresponding physicochemical properties and ultimate bioavailability
without making and breaking any covalent bonds within them. Many recent reports deal with the characterization
and analysis topics of pharmaceutical APIs-based cocrystals. In this mini-review, we will focus on the recent
steady-state and time-dependent spectroscopic investigation into the cocrystallization of specific APIs based on
both Raman and emerging terahertz spectroscopy in pharmaceutical fields. Distinctive spectral, structural and
also kinetic information of pharmaceutical APIs-based cocrystals are obtained and discussed, which would
highlight the potential of vibrational spectroscopy as an attractive technique for various drug research and development
during cocrystallization of specific APIs.
Gonadotropin Treatment for the Male Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism
Authors: Boeri Luca , Capogrosso Paolo , Salonia Andrea
Published: May 2020

Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) is caused by a dysfunction in the hypothalamus and/or the
pituitary gland and it can be congenital or acquired. This condition is biochemically characterized by low or inappropriately
normal gonadotropin levels along with low total testosterone levels. If fertility is not an issue, testosterone
therapy is the treatment of choice to induce and maintain secondary sexual characteristics and sexual function.
Spermatogenesis is frequently impaired in patients with HH, but usually responsive to hormonal therapy
such as gonadotropin therapy or GnRH supplementary/replacement therapy. When gonadotropins are the choice
of treatment, conventional therapy includes human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) along with different FSH formulations:
human menopausal gonadotropins (hMG), highly purified urinary FSH preparations (hpFSH) (e.g.,
urofollitropin) or recombinant FSH (rFSH). The combination of FSH and hCG demonstrated to be associated
with better outcomes than single compounds, whereas similar results were obtained with different FSH preparations
in male individuals; both regarding the ability to stimulate spermatogenesis and eventually inducing physiology
pregnancy. Gonadotropins can be administered either subcutaneously or intramuscularly. The combination
therapy with hCG and FSH for a period of 12-24 months was found to promote testicular growth in almost all
patients, spermatogenesis in approximately 80% and pregnancy rates in the range of 50%. Gynecomastia is the
most common side effect of gonadotropin therapy and is due to hCG stimulation of aromatase causing increased
secretion of estradiol. The therapeutic success is higher in patients with post-pubertal HH, in those without previously
undescended testes, in patients with higher baseline testicular volume, who underwent repeated cycles of
therapy and in patients with higher baseline inhibin B serum concentrations. Reversal of hypogonadism can occur
in up to 10% of patients but its physiopathologic mechanism has yet to be elucidated. In conclusion, gonadotropin
therapy is effective in promoting puberty and in supporting spermatogenesis onset and preservation in HH patients
with either hypothalamic or pituitary conditions.
BPC 157 Rescued NSAID-cytotoxicity Via Stabilizing Intestinal Permeability and Enhancing Cytoprotection
Authors: Park Jong M. , Lee Ho J. , Sikiric Predrag , Hahm Ki B.
Published: May 2020

The stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 protects stomach cells, maintains gastric integrity against various noxious agents such as alcohol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and exerts cytoprotection/ adaptive cytoprotection/organoprotection in other epithelia, that is, skin, liver, pancreas, heart, and brain. Especially BPC 157 counteracts gastric endothelial injury that precedes and induces damage to the gastric epithelium and generalizes "gastric endothelial protection" to protection of the endothelium of other vessels including thrombosis, prolonged bleeding, and thrombocytopenia. In this background, we put the importance of BPC 157 as a possible way of securing GI safety against NSAIDs-induced gastroenteropathy since still unmet medical needs to mitigate NSAIDs-induced cytotoxicity are urgent. Furthermore, gastrointestinal irritants such as physical or mental stress, NSAIDs administration, surfactants destroyer such as bile acids, alcohol can lead to leaky gut syndrome through increasing epithelial permeability. In this review article, we described the potential rescuing actions of BPC 157 against leaky gut syndrome after NSAIDs administration for the first time.
Integrated Analysis of mRNA-seq and miRNA-seq to Identify c-MYC, YAP1 and miR-3960 as Major Players in the Anticancer Effects of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester in Human Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Mo Fei , Luo Ya , Fan Dian , Zeng Hao , Zhao Yunuo , Luo Meng , Liu Xiaobei , Ma Xuelei
Published: May 2020

Background:

Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE), an active extract of propolis, has recently been reported to have broad applications in various cancers. However, the effects of CAPE on Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) are largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the anti-proliferative effect of CAPE and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms in SCLC cells using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.

Methods:

Small-cell lung cancer H446 cells were treated with CAPE, and cell proliferation and apoptosis were then assessed. Additionally, the regulation mediated by miR-3960 after CAPE treatment was explored and the altered signaling pathways were predicted in a bioinformatics analysis.

Results:

CAPE significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. CAPE decreased the expression of Yes-Associated Protein 1 (YAP1) and cellular myelocytomatosis oncogene (c-MYC) protein. Moreover, the upregulation of miR-3960 by CAPE contributed to CAPE-induced apoptosis. The knockdown of miR-3960 decreased the CAPE-induced apoptosis.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated the anti-cancer effect of CAPE in human SCLC cells and studied the mechanism by acquiring a comprehensive transcriptome profile of CAPE-treated cells.
Novel 2-(5-Aryl)thiophen-2-yl)benzimidazoles; Design, Synthesis and In vitro Evaluation Against Cercarial Phase of Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: El Bialy Serry Atta , Mansour Basem , Bayoumi Waleed Abdelhakeem , Taman Amira , Eissa Hassan Mohammed
Published: May 2020

Background:

Literature survey has pointed out that Benzimidazoles represent an interesting
class of anthelmintics, of which several potent members were developed.

Objective:

Benzimidazoles hybridized with pharmacophoric moieties possessing anthelmintic activity
were designed, synthesized to be evaluated against cercaria.

Methods:

Structural modification was achieved through 2- and 5-positions. Moreover, an in vitro
cercarial assay was adopted to evaluate target compounds.

Results and Discussion:

Biological screening revealed that compound 3h showed significant activity
with a survival index of 35% at a 100 μg/mL concentration. Whereas, compounds 3a and 3c
showed moderate activity, the rest of the tested compounds exhibited low activity.

Conclusion:

The current study evidenced that the new hybrids "benzimidazole-thiophen-aryl" are
successful as cercacidal agents. Further studies of this novel tri-ring system are suggested on adult
worms of S. mansoni.
Essentials for Combined Experimental and Computational 77Se NMR of Organoselenium Catalysts and Bioinspired Antioxidants
Authors: Bortoli Marco , Ribaudo Giovanni , Orian Laura
Published: May 2020

The importance of selenium in biology, in organic catalysis, and green chemistry is well
established. Selenoproteins, among which are ubiquitous Glutathione Peroxidases (GPx), play a key
role in mitigating oxidative stress by reducing H2O2 and hydroperoxides using glutathione as a cofactor.
Organoselenides, particularly diphenyl diselenide, in the presence of H2O2, are efficient and
often green oxygen transfer agents in important organic reactions, such as Baeyer-Villiger oxidations
of ketones/aldehydes, the conversion of alkenes into epoxides, and the oxidations of alcohols and nitrogen-
containing compounds. NMR spectroscopy can facilitate the investigation of the properties of
this element in a biological environment and the characterization of the peculiar species of its chemistry.
In this short review, a brief overview of the experimental and computational 77Se NMR-based
techniques is outlined, with a particular focus on their applications to the study of biologically relevant
organoselenium compounds and bio-mimetic systems. Experimental protocols, together with
computational methods used in different contexts, are presented and their potential as efficient investigation
tools is critically discussed. It emerges that while the 77Se NMR measurement is a consolidated
technique, no standard computational protocol is available to compute the shielding constant of
the chalcogen nucleus with accuracy and the optimal approach combines molecular dynamics in solution
and quantum chemistry calculations to take into account the conformational freedom.
Synthesis and Anti-Proliferative Evaluations of New Heterocyclic Derivatives Using 5,6,8,9-Tetrahydropyrazolo[5,1-b]quinazolin-7(3H)-one Derivatives Derived from Cyclohexa-1,4-dione
Authors: Mahmoud Mahmoud A.A. , Alsharif Meshari A. , Mohareb Rafat M.
Published: May 2020

Background:

Recentlty, pyrazoloquinazoline derivatives acquired a special attention due to their
wide range of pharmacological activities, especially therapeutic. Through the market, it was found that many
pharmacological drugs containing the quinazoline nucleus were known.

Objective:

We are aiming in this work to synthesize target molecules not only possess anti-tumor
activities but also kinase inhibitors. The target molecules were obtained through the synthesis of a
series of 5,6,8,9-tetrahydropyrazolo[5,1-b]quinazolin-7(3H)-one derivatives 4a-i using the multicomponent reactions of cyclohexan-1,4-dione (1), the 5-amino-4-(2-arylhydrazono)-4H-pyrazol-3-ol
derivatives 2a-c the aromatic aldehydes 3a-c, respectively. The synthesized compounds were
evaluated against c-Met kinase, PC-3 cell line and different kinds of cancer cell lines together with
normal cell line, tyrosine kinases and Pim-1 kinase.

Methods:

Multi-component reactions were adopted using compound 1 to get different 5,6,8,9-
tetrahydropyrazolo[5,1-b]quinazolin-7(3H)-one derivatives which underwent further heterocyclization reactions.
The c-Met kinase activity of all compounds was evaluated using Homogeneous Time-Resolved Fluorescence
(HTRF) assay, taking foretinib as the positive control. The anti-proliferative activity of all target compounds
against the human prostatic cancer PC-3 cell line was measured using MTT assay using SGI-1776 as the reference
drug. All the synthesized compounds were assessed for inhibitory activities against A549 (non-small cell
lung cancer), H460 (human lung cancer), HT-29 (human colon cancer), and MKN-45 (human gastric cancer)
cancer cell lines together with foretinib as the positive control by an MTT assay.

Results:

Antiproliferative evaluations and c-Met kinase, Pim-1 kinase inhibitions were performed for the synthesized
compounds, where the varieties of substituents through the aryl ring and the thiophene moiety afforded
compounds with high activities.

Conclusion:

The compounds with high antiproliferative activity were tested towards c-Met and the results
showed that compounds 4e, 4f, 4g, 4i, 6i, 6k, 6l, 8f, 8i, 10d, 10e, 10f, 10h, 12e, 12f, 12g, 12h, 12i, 14f, 14g, 14h,
and 14i were the most potent compounds. A further selection of compounds for the Pim-1 kinase inhibition activity
showed that compounds 4f, 6i, 6l, 8h, 8i, 8g, 10d, 12i, and 14f were the most active compounds to inhibit Pim-1.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profiling of Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci in a Referral Center in South Italy: A Surveillance Study
Authors: Nicolosi Daria , Cinà Diana , Di Naso Concettina , D’Angeli Floriana , Salmeri Mario , Genovese Carlo
Published: May 2020

Background:

CoNS are part of the normal flora of the skin, upper respiratory tract and human intestine. CoNS are able to colonize host tissues or inert materials such as prosthetics, heart valves, pacemakers, and urinary and venous catheters. They can also internalize in host cells, thus eluding immune defenses and attack by antibiotics.

Objective:

In this study, we collected the epidemiological data and determined the antibiotic susceptibility of 828 CoNS, collected in Garibaldi Hospital (Catania, Italy) between January 2016 and October 2018.

Methods:

Strains were evaluated by determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) using the broth microdilution method, according to the guidelines of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. The antibiotic sensitivity pattern of CoNS against eighteen antibiotics was determined.

Results:

For all the 828 clinical isolates, varying resistance rates were observed: ampicillin (87%), penicillin (86%), amoxicillin-clavulanate (71%), oxacillin (70%), erythromycin (69%), azithromycin (68%), levofloxacin (55%), ciprofloxacin (54%), gentamycin (47%), moxifloxacin (42%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (30%), clindamycin (28%), tetracycline (24%), rifampicin (20%), quinupristin-dalfopristin (synercid) (4%). No strains investigated demonstrated resistance to teicoplanin, vancomycin and linezolid.

Conclusion:

Our results highlight the importance of monitoring the evolution of CoNS resistance in order to implement control measures and reduce the risk of spread in the population.
Factors Related to Self-care in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kong Seung-Yeon , Cho Mi-Kyoung
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

The prevalence of diabetes and the personal and national burden from diabetes, a serious health issue around the globe, continues to increase. The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing self-care among patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive survey of 118 outpatients with type 2 diabetes in national university hospital C in Korea. Data were collected from self-report questionnaires covering information on demographics, self-care, and self-efficacy. Additional data were collected from medical records including information on HbA1c, fasting blood glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multiple regression using SPSS/WIN version 22.0 software.

Results:

Factors affecting self-care were the following four: self-efficacy, HbA1c, occupation status, and smoking status. Higher engagement in self-care was associated with higher self-efficacy (β = .53, p < .001), lower HbA1c (β = -0.33, p < .001), unemployment (β = -0.20, p < .001), and non-smoking status (β = -0.15, p = .011). The regression model of self-care among the type 2 diabetes patients was statistically significant (F = 67.15, p < .001), and the explanatory power of the adjusted R2 was 69%.

Conclusion:

Type 2 diabetes patients with high self-efficacy and self-care scores showed good glycemic control. Therefore, this finding suggests that nursing interventions should be developed to enhance self-efficacy, which is the greatest influencing factor for self-care.
Lung Cancer and Radiological Imaging
Authors: Panunzio Annalori , Sartori Paolo
Published: May 2020

Background:

Lung cancer is the neoplasm with the highest prevalence and mortality rates in
the world. Most patients with lung cancer that are symptomatic have hemoptysis, coughing, shortness
of breath, chest pain and persistent infections. Less than 10% of patients are asymptomatic when the
tumor is detected as an incidental finding.

Objective:

The present expert review aims to describe the use of radiological imaging modalities for
the diagnosis of lung cancer.

Methods:

Some papers were selected from the international literature, by using mainly Pubmed as a
source.

Results:

Chest x-ray (CXR) is the first investigation performed during the workup of suspected lung
cancer. In the absence of a rib erosion, CXR cannot distinguish between benign and malignant masses,
therefore computed tomography (CT) with contrast enhancement should be performed in order to obtain
a correct staging. Magnetic resonance imaging of the chest is considered a secondary approach as
the respiratory movement affects the overall results.

Conclusion:

Radiological imaging is essential for the management of patients affected by lung cancer.
Susceptibility to Localized Corrosion of ASTM F745 and UNS S32750 Stainless Steels Influence of pH and Cytotoxicity Evaluation
Authors: Gregorutti Ricardo W. , Grau Jorge E. , Castrogiovanni Daniel , Parisi Julieta , Reigosa Miguel , Elsner Cecilia I.
Published: May 2020

Background:

Body fluids are highly corrosive as they contain chlorides and hydroxides
ions, as well as salts, bacteria, proteins and dissolved oxygen. The pH of the body is usually around
7.4, although this value can vary in a range of 4 to 9 after surgery or because of haematomas, inflammations
and infections. ASTM F745 (type 316L) stainless steel has been used for load bearing partial
and total joint replacements and post trauma reconstructive surgeries. However, long exposure to the
aggressive effect of chloride ion present in the human body, may increase the susceptibility to suffer
localized corrosion. Although UNS S32750 has greater corrosion resistance to chloride ion, its magnetic
characteristics inhibit its use in implantable devices. Nevertheless, this stainless steel could be used
in temporary implants and orthodontic appliances such as brackets, wire arches and bands, due to its high
resistance to corrosion, the greater mechanical resistance and the high capacity of plastic forming.

Objectives:

The objective was to evaluate the susceptibility to localized corrosion in simulated body
fluid, in the pH range of 4 to 9. Another objective was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of Cr and Ni present
in the chemical composition of both stainless steels. Cytocompatibility was also analysed by
seeding cells on the surfaces of both stainless steels.

Methods:

Cyclic polariation test was performed to evaluate the susceptibility to localized corrosion in
0.9 wt% NaCl aqueous solution, at pH between 4 and 9, maintained at 37°C. For cytotoxicity evaluation,
neutral red, MTT and collagen assays were performed using UMR-106 cell line. Cytocompatibility
was analysed by seeding UMR-106 cells on the surfaces of both stainless steels.

Results:

F745-SS was more susceptible to suffer localized corrosion than UNS S32750. Although it
showed a tendency to develop transpassive reactions at low pH, galvanostatic tests did not reveal the
onset of localized corrosion. The results from the cytotoxicity assays indicated that no adverse effects
were observed. UMR-106 osteoblastic cells showed high viability, however, a slight reduction in the
collagen production was observed. The cytocompatibility was also satisfactory, since the cells seeded
on the surfaces had adequate proliferation.

Conclusion:

F745-SS is more susceptible to suffer localized corrosion than UNS S32750 in the pH
range between 4 and 9. UNS S32750 showed an extensive passive region, however, transpassive reactions
were observed at lower pH. On the other hand, no cytotoxic effects were promoted by both stainless
steels, although a slight reduction in collagen production was observed. Cells seeded on F745-SS and
UNS S32750 surfaces had an acceptable proliferation, without evidence of changes in their morphology.
Coronavirus: Crónica de una zoonosis anunciada
Authors: Mattar Salim , González Tous Marco
Published: May 2020

Desde hace algunos años el espacio editorial de la Revista MVZ Córdoba se ha orientado hacia el abordaje de temas de salud pública humana y animal bajo el concepto “One Health”. Hemos valorado y analizado artículos científicos, emitido opiniones,  suscitado debates, propuestas de líneas de investigación y también hemos pronosticado y advertido de la llegada de nuevas enfermedades tanto al país como al continente
Barriers to Creating Scalable Business Models for Digital Health Innovation in Public Systems: Qualitative Case Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kelley Leah Taylor , Fujioka Jamie , Liang Kyle , Cooper Madeline , Jamieson Trevor , Desveaux Laura
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Health systems are increasingly looking toward the private sector to provide digital solutions to address health care demands. Innovation in digital health is largely driven by small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), yet these companies experience significant barriers to entry, especially in public health systems. Complex and fragmented care models, alongside a myriad of relevant stakeholders (eg, purchasers, providers, and producers of health care products), make developing value propositions for digital solutions highly challenging.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify areas for health system improvement to promote the integration of innovative digital health technologies developed by SMEs.

METHODS

This paper qualitatively analyzes a series of case studies to identify health system barriers faced by SMEs developing digital health technologies in Canada and proposed solutions to encourage a more innovative ecosystem. The Women’s College Hospital Institute for Health System Solutions and Virtual Care established a consultation program for SMEs to help them increase their innovation capacity and take their ideas to market. The consultation involved the SME filling out an onboarding form and review of this information by an expert advisory committee using guided considerations, leading to a recommendation report provided to the SME. This paper reports on the characteristics of 25 SMEs who completed the program and qualitatively analyzed their recommendation reports to identify common barriers to digital health innovation.

RESULTS

A total of 2 central themes were identified, each with 3 subthemes. First, a common barrier to system integration was the lack of formal evaluation, with SMEs having limited resources and opportunities to conduct such an evaluation. Second, the health system’s current structure does not create incentives for clinicians to use digital technologies, which threatens the sustainability of SMEs’ business models. SMEs faced significant challenges in engaging users and payers from the public system due to perverse economic incentives. Physicians are compensated by in-person visits, which actively works against the goals of many digital health solutions of keeping patients out of clinics and hospitals.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant disconnect between the economic incentives that drive clinical behaviors and the use of digital technologies that would benefit patients’ well-being. To encourage the use of digital health technologies, publicly funded health systems need to dedicate funding for the evaluation of digital solutions and streamlined pathways for clinical integration.
The Dynamic of Cheating: Descriptive Study of Intention to Cheat
Authors: Reswara Ilham Phalosa
Published: May 2020

Cheating is strongly related to other unethical behaviors. It happens everywhere, including in universities. College students, ideally, should be prevented from cheating to minimize the potential of conducting unethical behaviors in the future. To design effective intervention, examining the cause of cheating is absolutely necessary. Cheating, like any other behavior, can be predicted by knowing its intention and the components of intention using the Theory of Planned Behavior. The present study explained the intention to cheat while studying in university along with its determinants and beliefs. The present study obtained data using online questionnaire based on the Theory of Planned Behavior to 233 participants. Regression analysis was performed to describe the significance level of each determinant and belief. The result showed that the determinant which had significant influence toward intention to cheat was attitude toward behavior (p = 0.00; β = 0.769; t = 15.620). The most significant belief in that determinant was “cheating during learning in university can help one earning good grade without studying hard”. Therefore, present study can be used as a basis to design interventions to reduce intention to cheat in university students.