bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super Long Green Persistent Luminescence from X-Ray Excited β-NaYF4: Tb3+
Authors: Hu Yue , Yang Yanmin , Li Xiaoxiao , Wang Xin , Li Yunqian , Li Tianyi , Zhang Hongwu
Published: March 2019

Here, we have discovered a X-ray excited long afterglow phosphor β-NaYF4: Tb3+. After the irradiation of X-ray, the green emission can persist for more than 240 h. After 36 h, the afterglow intensity arrived at 0.69 mcd•m-2, which can clearly be observed by naked eyes. Even after 84 h, the afterglow emission brightness still reached 0.087 mcd•m-2. Also, combined with the results of thermoluminescence and photoluminescence, the super long afterglow emission of β-NaYF4: Tb3+ can be ascribed to the tunneling model associated with F centers. More importantly, the super long green afterglow emission of β-NaYF4: Tb3+ has been successfully used as in vivo light source to activate g-C3N4 for photodynamic therapy（PDT）and bacteria destruction. Furthermore, super long persistent luminescence of β-NaYF4: Tb3+ could be repeatedly charged by X-ray for many circulations, which indicates that the phosphors have high photo stability under repeated cycles of alternating X-ray irradiation.
Phytochemical Diversity in Rhizomes of Three Reynoutria Species and their Antioxidant Activity Correlations Elucidated by LC-ESI-MS/MS Analysis
Authors: Nawrot-Hadzik Izabela , Ślusarczyk Sylwester , Granica Sebastian , Hadzik Jakub , Matkowski Adam
Published: March 2019

One of the richest natural sources of resveratrol - the rhizome of Reynoutria japonica in East Asia is a well-known traditional herb (Hu zhang) used in various inflammatory diseases, infections, skin diseases, scald, hyperlipidemia. Although, it has been recently included in the European Pharmacopoeia, still in Europe is an untapped resource. Some of the therapeutic effects are likely to be influenced by its antioxidant properties and this in turn is frequently associated with a high stilbene content. However, some literatures suggested that other compounds than stilbenes may add to the total antioxidant capacity. Hence, the aim of this research was to examine rhizomes of R. japonica and less studied, morphologically similar species, R. sachalinensis and R. x bohemica for their phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity and to clarify the relationship between the antioxidant activity and compounds by statistical methods. HPLC/UV/ESI-MS studies of three Reynoutria species revealed 171 compounds comprising stilbenes, carbohydrates, procyanidins, flavan-3-ols, anthraquinones, phenylpropanoids, lignin oligomers, hydroxycinnamic acids, naphthalenes and their derivatives. Our studies confirmed the presence of procyanidins with high degree of polymerization, up to decamers in the rhizomes of R. japonica and brings new data on the presence of these compounds in other Reynoutria species. A procyanidin trimer digallate was described for the first time in the studied plants. Moreover, we suggested a presence of new for these species, dianthrone glycosides and previously unrecorded phenylpropanoid disaccharide esters and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, mainly in R. sachalinensis. Furthemore, compounds tentatively annotated as lignin oligomers were observed for the first time in studied species. The rhizomes of all Reynoutria species exhibited strong antioxidant activity. Statistical analysis demonstrated that proanthocyanidins should be considered as important contributors to the total antioxidant capacity.
New Evidence of Marine Fauna Tropicalization off the Southwestern Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Encarnação João , Morais Pedro , Baptista Vânia , Cruz Joana , Teodósio Maria Alexandra
Published: March 2019

Climate change and the overall increase of seawater temperature is causing a poleward shift in species distribution, which includes a phenomenon described as tropicalization of temperate regions. This work aims at reporting the first records of four species off the southwestern Iberian Peninsula, namely oceanic puffer Lagocephalus lagocephalus Linnaeus, 1758, Madeira rockfish Scorpaena maderensis Valenciennes, 1833, ornate wrasse Thalassoma pavo Linnaeus, 1758, and bearded fireworm Hermodice carunculata Pallas, 1766. These last three species, along with other occurrences of aquatic fauna and flora along the Portuguese coast, reveal an ongoing process of poleward expansion of several species for which a comprehensive survey along the entire Iberian Peninsula is urgent. The putative origins of these subtropical and tropical species off continental Portugal are discussed, as well as the urgent need of public awareness due to potential health risks resulting from the toxicity of two of the four species reported in this paper.
Optical Constants of rare-Earth Substituted Ferrite-Type Amorphous Garnets and Nanoscale Garnet-Oxide Layers
Authors: Nur-E-Alam Mohammad , Vasiliev Mikhail , Alameh Kamal
Published: March 2019

Amorphous ferrite-type rare-earth (RE) substituted garnets and garnet-oxide nanocomposite layers are prepared on clear glass substrates by using RF magnetron sputter-deposition process. By using a combination approach employing custom-built spectrum-fitting software in conjunction with Swanepoel’s envelope method, the spectral dispersion function of optical constants and the layer thicknesses are derived accurately from the transmission spectra of the as-deposited samples. The effects of excess metal-oxides added to the base material systems during the co-deposition process are found to affect the refractive index and the optical absorption coefficients of garnet-oxide composites. A number of optical constant datasets are presented, enabling the experimentalists to design nanophotonic or integrated-optics devices employing these functional materials.
EVALUATION OF GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM THREE CONTRASTING INTEGRATED CROP AND LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION SYSTEMS DURING 1991-2016 IN GANSU OF CHINA
Authors: Yan Zhengang
Published: March 2019

This study was to evaluate the difference in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from 3 contrasting integrated crop and livestock production systems in Gansu of China from 1991 to 2016 using the life cycle assessment technique. The three systems were located in different regions: Hexi Oasis (dry arid, intensive crop/livestock production), Loess Plateau (semi-arid/semi-humid, dominated by extensive crop production) and Qinling Bashan Mountains (moist-subtropical, extensive crop/livestock production). The data used were collated from 525 farms (35 farms/county and 5 counties/region) thorough official statistical records and farm survey. The ANOVA analysis of average data from 2012 to 2016 indicated that Loess Plateau had a higher CO2 equivalent (CO2-eq) emission factor per kg DM product of maize and flaxseed than other 2 regions (P< 0.05), while a lower rate per kg beef carcass weight. Qinling Bashan Mountains had a lower emission factor for producing 1 ¥ of crop products than other 2 regions (P< 0.05). The evaluation of change in GHG emissions from 1991 to 2016 indicated that CO2-eq per kg carcass of pork, beef, and lamb in the 3 production systems generally declined during this period, but emissions per kg DM of potato, rapeseed, and maize increased. However, CO2-eq per ¥ of crop and livestock products tended to decrease from 1991 to 2016, driven mainly by market price and productivity. The present results provide the benchmark information for local policy makers and agricultural industries to make informed decisions for mitigation of GHG emissions from agricultural production in Gansu of China.
Physicochemical and Descriptive Sensory Analysis of Arkansas-grown Peaches and Nectarines
Authors: Felts Molly , Threlfall Renee T. , Worthington Margaret L.
Published: March 2019

Understanding how human perception is related to physicochemical attributes strengthens identification of ripeness and marketability parameters for peaches and nectarines [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch]. Six peach and nectarine cultivars (Amoore Sweet, Bowden, Effie, Loring, Souvenirs, and White River) and three advanced breeding selections (A-827, A-850, and A-865) were harvested from trees grown at the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Fruit Breeding Program in Clarksville, AR. Physical and chemical characteristics of the genotypes at harvest were as follows: fruit weight of 134.4 to 330.2 g, firmness of 7.8 to 35.8 N, soluble solids of 7.5% to 14.7%, pH of 3.3 to 4.8, titratable acidity of 0.2% to 1.1%, total sugars of 1.7 to 10.4 g/100 g, and total organic acids of 0.1 to 0.9 g/100 g. Overall, A-865 had the lowest fruit weight (134.0 g) and pH (3.3), and the highest firmness (35.8 N), soluble solids (14.7%), titratable acidity (1.1%), total sugars (10.4 g/100 g), and total organic acids (0.8 g/100 g). ‘White River’ had the largest fruit (330.2 g) and pit (11.06 g). A-850 (63.6) had the highest soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio, and ‘Bowden’ (12.7) had the lowest. A trained descriptive sensory panel (n = 10) was used to create a lexicon for Arkansas-grown fresh-market peaches and nectarines. The panel evaluated the fruit for aroma (n = 4), external appearance (n = 8), internal appearance and pit attributes (n = 6), basic tastes (n = 3), aromatics while eating fruit (n = 5), feeling factors (n = 2), and texture (n = 6). Principal component analysis explained 63.4% of the data variance attributed to texture and acidity. Of all of the physicochemical attributes, firmness had the most significant correlations with the descriptive sensory attributes, followed by fruit weight. Firmness was negatively correlated (r = −0.70 to 0.81) to fruit size, fuzziness, amount of bruises on the flesh, pit size, and moisture release, and positively correlated (r = 0.68–0.84) to sourness, green/unripe aromatics, flesh hardness, flesh crispness, and fibrousness between the teeth. Fruit weight was positively correlated (r = 0.67–0.75) to fruit and pit size, overripe aromatics, and moisture release. Significant correlations between descriptive sensory appearance, basic tastes, aromatics, and texture attributes with physicochemical attributes provide an indication of ripeness and marketability parameters for peaches and nectarines. These descriptive attributes are quality factors that impact consumer purchases and perception of fresh-market peaches and nectarines.
Using Processed Corn Stover as an Alternative to Peat
Authors: Ruis Sabrina J. , Blanco-Canqui Humberto , Paparozzi Ellen T. , Zeeck Russ
Published: March 2019

Processed corn (Zea mays L.) stover (PCS), defined as finely ground stover with or without additions, could be a potential alternative to peat in greenhouse mixes. However, this option has not yet been examined. We performed two split-plot experiments (1 and 2) with tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and marigolds (Tagetes patula L.) as main plots. Expt. 1 involved five stover rates (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% by volume) mixed with peat as subplots. Expt. 2 involved 0% stover mixed with peat, 25% distillers grain, and 50% quick compost (mechanically processed to accelerate compost process) stover with and without CaO, and 75% quick compost stover without CaO, as subplots. We measured growth parameters (height, dry weight, and flower number) and properties of the mixes. During Expt. 1, across both species, the addition of stover at rates >50% reduced relative greenness by 40%, vegetative biomass yield by 74%, and reproductive biomass yield by 73% compared to mixes with 0% and 25% stover. As the stover rate increased, available water content in the mixes decreased (r = −0.34; P < 0.001). Mixes with 0% and 25% stover had 34% more available water than mixes with 100% stover, which probably reduced plant growth in the 100% stover treatment. As the stover rate increased, plant tissue N and P concentrations decreased. Mixes with 0% stover generally had greater N and P concentrations than mixes with stover. During Expt. 2, for marigolds, the addition of 50% quick compost stover+CaO and 75% quick compost stover-CaO reduced relative greenness by 19% and vegetative biomass by 66% compared to mixes with 25% distillers grain or 0% stover. For tomatoes, the addition of 50% quick compost stover+CaO and 75% quick compost stover-CaO reduced biomass yield by 64%, which may be due to the higher pH and electrical conductivity (EC) of both treatments. Plant tissue N and P concentrations were greater in the mix with 25% distillers grain compared to most treatments, but N and P concentrations in the other mixes varied. Overall, the 25% distillers grain (3 peat: 1 distiller grain: 4 perlite) and 25% stover (3 peat: 1 stover: 4 perlite) treatments showed the most promise as additives in a peat-based mix.
Identifying Host Resistance to Phytophthora cinnamomi in Hybrid Progeny of Castanea dentata and Castanea mollissima
Authors: Perkins M. Taylor , Robinson Anna Claire , Cipollini Martin L. , Craddock J. Hill
Published: March 2019

Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands, the causal pathogen of phytophthora root rot (PRR) of chestnut, is one of the main obstacles to growth of american chestnut [Castanea dentata (Marsh.) Bork.] in the southern part of its distribution. To facilitate introgression of PRR resistance of chinese chestnut (C. mollissima Blume) into a C. dentata genetic background, we assessed the disease resistance of 10 interspecific hybrid families derived from potentially resistant C. mollissima cultivars. Hybrid progeny were inoculated with P. cinnamomi in the nursery and assessed for root lesion severity after 1 year of growth. Asymptomatic plants were transplanted to a P. cinnamomi-positive orchard and evaluated for survival midway through the following growing season. During the nursery experiment, 8 of 10 hybrid families were not significantly different from susceptible C. dentata controls for average disease resistance scores. However, multiple asymptomatic individuals were identified in each of the eight families. Two of the 10 hybrid families were not significantly different from the resistant C. mollissima and C. henryi controls. In the P. cinnamomi-positive orchard, the prescreened hybrid families displayed a greater proportion of survivors than backcross families that had not been prescreened for P. cinnamomi resistance. Hybrid plants that have survived 2 years of growth in P. cinnamomi-infested potting media and soils represent an important step toward the production of genetically diverse chestnut populations in the southeastern United States that combine the PRR resistance of C. mollissima with the morphology and local adaptation of C. dentata.
Safety of EGb 761® therapy in comorbid patients
Authors: Pizova N. V.
Published: March 2019

The article presents data from various studies on the incidence of chronic diseases and conditions among adults, which is a serious public health problem today. The problem of comorbidity in the conditions of demographic aging of the population is highlighted. The results of recent studies on the frequency of side effects depending on the number of drugs taken are presented. It is shown that in old age another problem is the development of cognitive impairment. The results of detection of cognitive disorders among patients of general hospitals are described. Data on the efficacy of the drug application from the standardized extract of ginkgo biloba leaves EGb 761® for prophylaxis and treatment of cognitive disorders are presented. The question of the effect of EGb 761® preparation on blood coagulation properties in comorbid patients taking antiagregants and anticoagulants was considered.
Safe use of meloxicam in clinical practice
Authors: Sas E. I. , Grinevich V. B.
Published: March 2019

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – means of treatment of acute and chronic pain associated primarily with inflammatory changes, so this group of drugs is widely used in neurology, rheumatology, traumatology, etc. The mechanism of action of the drugs is associated with the effect on cyclooxygenase-2 (COG-2) and blockade of proinflammatory prostaglandins (PG) synthesis, as well as the effect on COG-1 and suppression of cytoprotective PG synthesis, which determines the possibility of side effects from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Now application of NPVP is focused not so much on increase of efficiency, as on their big safety. Creation of COG-2-selective inhibitors (meloxicam) and COG-2-high selective inhibitors (coxybes) allowed to reduce significantly the risk of complications from gastrointestinal tract while maintaining high efficiency. Thus, the safety profile of meloxicam, mainly inhibiting COG-2, is estimated in a whole series of studies. In particular, two large prospective controlled trials - MELISSA and SELECT - proved that meloxicam is less toxic to gastrointestinal tract than traditional NSAIDs. Thus, a reasonable conclusion can be made about the high efficacy of meloxicam, which is not inferior to that of non-selective NSAIDs, with good tolerability and safety of the drug against gastrointestinal tract.
Cardiac autonomic neuropathy in diabetic patients
Authors: Belyaev A. A. , Kotova O. V. , Akarachkova E. S.
Published: March 2019

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a common and insufficiently diagnosed complication of diabetes mellitus. This is usually due to the fact that the disease runs asymptomatically until the very late stages. The impact of CAN on patients with diabetes can be devastating, because CAN is associated with increased mortality, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease. CAN prevalence: 17-66% in patients with type 1 diabetes and 31–73% in patients with type 2 diabetes. Hyperglycemia, autoimmune reaction, genetic factors, obstructive sleep apnea, and inflammation are the key points in the pathogenesis of neuropathies in diabetes, in particular, CAN. Clinical manifestations of CAN and risk factors of CAN development in patients with diabetes are considered. Early diagnosis of CAN is of vital importance for the success of therapy, as there is an assumption that denervation of cardiovascular system may be reversible if diagnosed soon after its beginning. Antioxidant, vasoactive and vitamin therapy is used in the treatment of CAN. Emphasis is placed on the use of the injection form of Neuromultivitis.
Alcoholic polyneuropathy: ways of diagnostics and therapy
Authors: Kurushina O. V. , Barulin A. E. , Chernovolenko E. P.
Published: March 2019

The article is devoted to the analysis of the pathogenetic mechanisms of the formation of alcoholic lesions of the peripheral nervous system. Various clinical forms of alcoholic polyneuropathy are considered, ways to diagnose using modern instrumental and laboratory methods are proposed. The authors analyze the main ways of forming a therapeutic strategy, consider groups of drugs used to treat alcoholic polyneuropathy. The data of own clinical experience of using the preparation of thioctic acid are given.
Gout: objective, indications and adherence to uratelowering therapy
Authors: Tsurko V. V. , Morozova T. Ye. , Gromova M. A. , Krykhivskaya K. M.
Published: March 2019

Gout is a chronic systemic inflammatory tophus disease with recurrent arthritis of the peripheral joints in patients with hyperuricemia and the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in various tissues. Only 50% or less of patients receive therapy lowering serum uric acid levels to the target level. The lowering therapy is started with a low dose and subsequent titration in all patients with high UA serum levels in the presence of renal pathology, and in such comorbid diseases as hypertension, heart failure, coronary artery disease.
A homogeneous high precision direct integration based on Chebyshev interpolation
Authors: Chen Dongliang , Wang Lianfu , Zhang Jindong
Published: March 2019

Based on Chebyshev’s interpolation theory, the non-homogeneous term of the second-order linear differential equations is interpolated, and a precise integration algorithm with easy programming, high computational efficiency and precision design is realized. The method does not involve inverse operation, and does not need to additionally calculate the matrix index on the integration point, and can control the error boundary based on different precision requirements, so it has high stability and controllability. Numerical examples of periodic loads common in vibration engineering show the effectiveness of the method.
Identification of steady sound source with optimization microphone array based on dynamic wave super position method
Authors: Wang Rujia
Published: March 2019

When identifying the sound sources with microphone array, sometimes the side-lobe effect is significant, increasing the amount of the microphones and enlarging the size of the microphone array will improve the identification performance. But it will increase the cost and complexity of the measurement system. In this paper, we proposed two kinds of methods to identify the sound source and suppress the sidelobe effect without increasing the microphones or enlarging the array size. We extended the wave superposition method to the measurement of the stable sound sources and applied this method to suppress the sidelobe effect successfully. The results of the simulations and experiments have proven that both the two methods can provide better identification results and reduce the side lobe significantly, suggesting our methods’ great potential in noise identification work.
Effect of rock resistance on longitudinal equivalent rigidity of a jointed TBM tunnel lining under earthquakes
Authors: Li Can , Chen Weizhong
Published: March 2019

Longitudinal tension and compression deformations of a tunnel are caused by longitudinal non-uniform displacement of surrounding rock under earthquakes, and the longitudinal equivalent rigidity is one of the most important mechanical performance index in the seismic response analysis of a TBM tunnel. The back analysis of a jointed TBM tunnel lining rigidity under earthquakes was conducted, in which segments and joints are simulated by finite elements. The results show that the rigidity ratio of segment element to joint element decreases exponentially with the increase of shear modulus of surrounding rock when subjected to small earthquake (0.1 g), but the rigidity ratio of segment element to joint element is almost unchanged with the increase of shear modulus of surrounding rock when subjected to strong earthquake (0.3 g). Therefore, when a jointed TBM tunnel lining is equivalent to a continuous beam, the resistance spring of surrounding rock in parallel with the joint spring is introduced to establish the evaluation model of the equivalent longitudinal rigidity of the jointed TBM tunnel lining under earthquakes.
Open-loop linearization for piezoelectric actuator with inverse hysteresis model
Authors: Riepold Markus , Maslo Semir , Han Ge , Henke Christian , Trächtler Ansgar
Published: March 2019

For developing an active workpiece holder, piezo actuators are used to apply compensation forces and displacements. These actuators suffer from hysteresis effects which impair accuracy and performance. The focus of this work is the modelling of the actuator’s hysteresis and establishing a corresponding inverse model to compensate the effect in an open-loop approach. The model, on the basis of easy to calculate sigmoid functions, is shown to yield good linearization of the actuator’s behavior.
Modal analysis of micro wind turbine blade using COSMOSWorks
Authors: Tan Xiaohua , Guo Xiaosai , Tan Xinbo , Wang Lijie , Li Qiu , Li Baizhou
Published: March 2019

In this paper, vibration modal analysis of a horizontal axis micro wind turbine blade of different rotational speeds was carried out by using the finite element analysis software COSMOSWorks. The dynamic stiffening phenomenon and its effect on the vibration mode of the wind turbine blade were taken into account. Numerical results were analyzed and compared. The analysis can help not only to ensure the reliability of system operation but also to improve the structural performance.
Primera época - Año I, Número 2, agosto de 1999
Authors: De San Luis Revista Del Colegio
Published: March 2019

Este número corresponde a la primera época de la Revista de El Colegio de San Luis, denominado VETAS.
The Relationship Between Prolidase Activity and Atrial Electromechanical Changes in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Tascanov Mustafa Begenc
Published: March 2019

Background:

Tissue fibrosis increases in the structure of the atrial tissue of atrial fibrillation patients. Prolidase enzyme regulates collagen synthesis. There may be an association between electrocardiography (ECG) findings and prolidase activity.

Objective:

This study investigated the association between atrial conduction time and prolidase activity, a collagen synthesis enzyme, and P-wave dispersion (PWD) in patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (PAF).

Methods:

Exclusion criteria included the age of <18 years, heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, malignancy, cerebrovascular disease, chronic respiratory distress, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, renal disease, cirrhosis, and other types of arrhythmia. Patients diagnosed with PAF within 48 hours were considered to have a definite diagnosis. PWD was calculated using a 12-lead ECG, and inter- and intraatrial electromechanical delay (EMD) was assessed using tissue Doppler imaging and conventional echocardiography. Serum prolidase levels were measured in both groups.

Results:

A total of 43 patients with PAF (20 female, 23 male; mean age, 46.8 ± 5.7 years) and 42 healthy volunteers (21 female, 21 male; mean age, 43.9 ± 5.1 years) were included in the study.

:

Inter- and intraatrial EMD, PWD, minimum P-wave (Pmin), and maximum P-wave (Pmax) measurements were significantly higher (39.7 ± 2.7, 35.7 ± 2.3, p < 0.001; 13.2 ± 2.6, 8.5 ± 1.9, p < 0.001; 47.1 ± 11, 24.1 ± 7.1, p < 0.001; 69.8 ± 8.8, 66.7 ± 10.2, p < 0.130; 114.8 ± 13, 93.6 ± 8.6, p < 0.001, respectively) and serum prolidase levels were significantly lower in patients with PAF compared to healthy controls (3.96 ± 1.2, 8.5 ± 3.56, p < 0.001). In patients with PAF, correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between prolidase levels and intra- and interatrial EMD, PWD, and Pmax (r = -0.41, p < 0.05; r = -0.54, p < 0.05; r = -0.62, p < 0.05; r = -0.49, p < 0.05, respectively). Interatrial EMD showed a significant positive correlation with intraatrial EMD, Pmax, and PWD in patients with PAF (r = 0.90, p < 0.05; r = 0.574, p < 0.05; r = 0.43, p < 0.05, respectively). Additionally, the level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) was significantly higher in patients with PAF (6.6 ± 8, 1.8 ± 1.6, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The decreased plasma prolidase activity in patients with PAF may explain the irregularity of the collagen metabolism of different extracellular components and may indicate the onset of atrial remodeling. Changes in PWD, interatrial EMD, and serum prolidase level may predict PAF before diagnosis.
Influence of Amino Acid Mutations and Small Molecules on Targeted Inhibition of Proteins Involved in Cancer
Authors: Kanakaveti V. , Anoosha P. , Sakthivel R. , Rayala S.K. , Gromiha M.M.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are of crucial importance in regulating the biological processes of cells both in normal and diseased conditions. Significant progress has been made in targeting PPIs using small molecules and achieved promising results. However, PPI drug discovery should be further accelerated with better understanding of chemical space along with various functional aspects.

Objective:

In this review, we focus on the advancements in computational research for targeted inhibition of protein-protein interactions involved in cancer.

Methods:

Here, we mainly focused on two aspects: (i) understanding the key roles of amino acid mutations in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as well as mutation-specific inhibitors and (ii) design of small molecule inhibitors for Bcl-2 to disrupt PPIs.

Results:

The paradigm of PPI inhibition to date reflect the certainty that inclination towards novel and versatile strategies enormously dictate the success of PPI inhibition. As the chemical space highly differs from the normal drug like compounds the lead optimization process has to be given the utmost priority to ensure the clinical success. Here, we provided a broader perspective on effect of mutations in oncogene EGFR connected to Bcl-2 PPIs and focused on the potential challenges.

Conclusion:

Understanding and bridging mutations and altered PPIs will provide insights into the alarming signals leading to massive malfunctioning of a biological system in various diseases. Finding rational elucidations from a pharmaceutical stand point will presumably broaden the horizons in future.
Protein/ Hormone Based Nanoparticles as Carriers for Drugs Targeting Protein-Protein Interactions
Authors: Al-Suhaimi Ebtesam , Ravinayagam Vijaya , Jermy B. Rabindran , Mohamad Tarhini , Elaissari Abdelhamid
Published: March 2019

Background:

In this review, protein-protein interactions (PPIs) were defined, and their behaviors
in normal in disease conditions are discussed. Their status at nuclear, molecular and cellular
level was underscored, as for their interference in many diseases. Finally, the use of protein nanoscale
structures as possible carriers for drugs targeting PPIs was highlighted.

Objective:

The objective of this review is to suggest a novel approach for targeting PPIs. By using protein
nanospheres and nanocapsules, a promising field of study can be emerged.

Methods:

To solidify this argument, PPIs and their biological significance was discussed, same as their
role in hormone signaling.

Results:

We shed the light on the drugs that targets PPI and we suggested the use of nanovectors to encapsulate
these drugs to possibly achieve better results.

Conclusion:

Protein based nanoparticles, due to their advantages, can be suitable carriers for drugs targeting
PPIs. This can open a new opportunity in the emerging field of multifunctional therapeutics.
Protein-Protein Interactions and Aggregation Inhibitors in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ganeshpurkar Ankit , Swetha Rayala , Kumar Devendra , Gangaram Gore P. , Singh Ravi , Gutti Gopichand , Jana Srabanti , Kumar Dileep , Kumar Ashok , Singh Sushil K.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), a multifaceted disorder, involves complex pathophysiology and plethora of protein-protein interactions. Thus such interactions can be exploited to develop anti-AD drugs.

Objective:

The interaction of dynamin-related protein 1, cellular prion protein, phosphoprotein phosphatase 2A and Mint 2 with amyloid β, etc., studied recently, may have critical role in progression of the disease. Our objective has been to review such studies and their implications in design and development of drugs against the Alzheimer’s disease.

Methods:

Such studies have been reviewed and critically assessed.

Results:

Review has led to show how such studies are useful to develop anti-AD drugs.

Conclusion:

There are several PPIs which are current topics of research including Drp1, Aβ interactions with various targets including PrPC, Fyn kinase, NMDAR and mGluR5 and interaction of Mint2 with PDZ domain, etc., and thus have potential role in neurodegeneration and AD. Finally, the multi-targeted approach in AD may be fruitful and opens a new vista for identification and targeting of PPIs in various cellular pathways to find a cure for the disease.
Applications of in Silico Methods for Design and Development of Drugs Targeting Protein-Protein Interactions
Authors: Cicaloni Vittoria , Trezza Alfonso , Pettini Francesco , Spiga Ottavia
Published: March 2019

Background:

Identification of Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs) is a major challenge in modern molecular biology and biochemistry research, due to the unquestionable role of proteins in cells, biological process and pathological states. Over the past decade, the PPIs have evolved from being considered a highly challenging field of research to being investigated and examined as targets for pharmacological intervention.

Objective:

Comprehension of protein interactions is crucial to known how proteins come together to build signalling pathways, to carry out their functions, or to cause diseases, when deregulated. Multiplicity and great amount of PPIs structures offer a huge number of new and potential targets for the treatment of different diseases.

Methods:

Computational techniques are becoming predominant in PPIs studies for their effectiveness, flexibility, accuracy and cost. As a matter of fact, there are effective in silico approaches which are able to identify PPIs and PPI site. Such methods for computational target prediction have been developed through molecular descriptors and data-mining procedures.

Results:

In this review, we present different types of interactions between protein-protein and the application of in silico methods for design and development of drugs targeting PPIs. We described computational approaches for the identification of possible targets on protein surface and to detect of stimulator/ inhibitor molecules.

Conclusion:

A deeper study of the most recent bioinformatics methodologies for PPIs studies is vital for a better understanding of protein complexes and for discover new potential PPI modulators in therapeutic intervention.
Postoperative Clinical Monitoring After Morphine Administration: A Retrospective Multicenter Practice Survey
Authors: Raft Julien , Podrez Kévin , Baumann Cédric , Richebé Philippe , Bouaziz Hervé
Published: March 2019

Background:

The objective of this survey was to describe the clinical monitoring practically used after intravenous, subcutaneous or neuraxial (epidural or intrathecal) administration of morphine.

Methods:

It was a descriptive, retrospective, multicenter (10 hospitals) survey based on the medical charts’ analysis, which evaluated the postoperative clinical monitoring after morphine administration.

Results:

Morphine was delivered intravenously (69%), intrathecally (19%), epidurally (10%) and/or subcutaneously (12%). Clinical monitoring protocols and protocols for the management of side effects were both present in 60% (n=6/10), only one of the two types of protocols in 10% (n=1/10) and both absent in 30% (n=3/10). Protocols for the management of respiratory depression and consciousness evaluation were present in 70% of cases (n=7/10). These events were reported on medical records without any prescription or protocol in 35% (n=14/40) and 37,5% (n=15/40) respectively. Prescriptions for respiratory rate evaluation and clinical monitoring of consciousness were in agreement with only 20% of the medical data and medical records. Different levels of respiratory rate were observed: 43% (n=3/7) below 8/min, 43% (n=3/7) below 10/min and 14% (n=1/7) below 12/min. Clinical monitoring was not performed in 31% (n=31/100) for consciousness and in 35% (n=35/100) for respiratory rate. Pulse oximeter was used in 48% (n=48/100) of patients. Capnography was never used. Respiratory depression occurred in 1% (n=1/100) of cases.

Conclusion:

This survey emphasizes an important disparity in the prescription of medical monitoring and a lack of use of protocols when morphine is administered. It demonstrates the need for a standardization of protocols according to the existing guidelines.
Synthesis and Investigation of Therapeutic Potential of Isoform-Specific HDAC8 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Umamaheswari Appavoo , Puratchikody Ayarivan , Hari Natarajan
Published: March 2019

Background:

The available treatment option for any type of cancer including CTCL is chemotherapy and radiation therapy which indiscriminately persuade on the normal cells. One way out for selective destruction of CTCL cells without damaging normal cells is the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi). Despite promising results in the treatment of CTCL, these HDACi have shown a broadband inhibition profile, moderately selective for one HDAC class but not for a particular isotype. The prevalence of drug-induced side effects leaves open a narrow window of speculation that the decreased therapeutic efficacy and observed side effects may be most likely due to non specific HDAC isoform inhibition. The aim of this paper is to synthesis and evaluates HDAC8 isoform specific inhibitors.

Methods:

Based on the preliminary report on the design and in silico studies of 52 hydroxamic acid derivatives bearing multi-substituent heteroaromatic rings with chiral amine linker, five compounds were shortlisted and synthesized by microwave assisted approach and high yielding synthetic protocol. A series of in vitro assays in addition to HDAC8 inhibitory activity was used to evaluate the synthesised compounds.

Results:

Inhibitors 1e, 2e, 3e, 4e and 5e exerted the anti-proliferative activities against CTCL cell lines at 20- 100 µM concentrations. Both the pyrimidine- and pyridine-based probes exhibited μM inhibitory activity against HDAC8. The pyrimidine-based probe 1e displayed remarkable HDAC8 selectivity superior to that of the standard drug, SAHA with an IC50 at 0.1µM.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated that simple modifications at different portions of pharmacophore in the hydroxamic acid analogues are effective for improving both HDAC8 inhibitory activity and isoform selectivity. Potent and highly isoform-selective HDAC8 inhibitors were identified. These findings would be expedient for further development of HDAC8-selective inhibitors.
The Treatment of Male Infertility After Allograft Renal Transplantation: A Case Series
Authors: Takamoto Daiji , Kawahara Takashi , Takeshima Teppei , Kuroda Shinnosuke , Mochizuki Taku , Makiyama Kazuhide , Yumura Yasushi , Teranishi Jun-ichi , Uemura Hiroji
Published: March 2019

Background:

Renal transplantation is a useful option for allowing female renal failure patients of childbearing age to achieve pregnancy. However, there have been a few reports on the effects of renal transplantation on infertility treatment in male renal failure patients. We herein report two cases in which male patients underwent infertility treatment after renal transplantation.

Case Presentation:

Case 1: A 51-year-old Asian (Japanese) man underwent transplantation (the donor was his wife) for renal failure due to Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). At two years after transplantation, he visited the reproduction center in our institute due to infertility. A semen analysis revealed oligoasthenozoospermia. He ultimately failed to achieve pregnancy and gave up on infertility treatment.

Case 2: A 47-year-old Asian (Japanese) man underwent renal transplantation (the donor was his sister) due to renal failure caused by diabetes mellitus. At three years after renal transplantation, he visited the reproduction center in our institute for infertility. Due to ejaculation disability and the absence of sperm in the patient’s urine after masturbation, he was diagnosed with anejaculation. Thus, testicular sperm extraction (TESE) was performed. Twenty-three motile spermatozoa were successfully retrieved by microdissection TESE (micro-TESE). ICSI was subsequently performed and a good embryo was transferred. His wife achieved pregnancy and is expected to deliver this October.

Conclusion:

We report two cases of male infertility treatment after renal transplantation.
Resilience in Patients with Diabetes-Related Lower Limb Amputation
Authors: Makai Gábor , Rátvai Edina , Veszely Judit , Pethes Barbara , Kiss Enikő Csilla
Published: March 2019

Background:

Several factors may hinder postoperative rehabilitation following lower limb amputation. This study contributes to the existing knowledge of the impact of psychological factors on patients’ successful adaptation.

Objective:

The study focused on the importance of resilience following lower limb amputation due todiabetes mellitus, especially on protective and risk factors potentially influencing adaptation to limb loss.

Method:

Patients (n=29) completed a test battery one and sixth months after amputation including the following questionnaires: Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-R), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS), Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS).

Results:

Anxiety, depression and negative emotional states negatively correlated with resilience, suggesting to be risk factors hindering adaptation. Positive effects act as a protective factor, while negative emotions hinder coping with the trauma, particularly six months after limb loss. The overall score and all three subscales of the MOS-SSS correlated positively with resilience at both measurements, which suggests that social support has importance in successfully dealing with resilience. Patients’ Sense Of Coherence (SOC) was found to be positively correlated with resilience six months after amputation suggesting it is also a protective factor.

Conclusion:

This study expands the limited empirical knowledge of patients with lower limb amputation due todiabetes mellitus. The study approached adaptation to limb loss from a new perspective focusing on protective and risk factors related to resilience. A complex test battery was compiled to implement the new approach to the essential protective factors in rehabilitation.
An intervention for depressive symptoms using a commercial game in a mental health impatient setting. (Preprint)
Authors: Guzman Cortez Pablo Rodrigo , Marzocchi Matias , Freixa Fontanals Neus , Balcells-Olivero Mercedes
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Computerized mental health interventions have shown evidence of their potential benefit for mental health outcomes in young users. All of the studied interventions available in the review and scientific literature can be classified as "serious games". Serious games are computerized interventions designed from the start with the objective of improving specific desired health outcomes.
Moreover, there are reports of users experiencing subjective benefits in mental health after playing specific commercial games. These were games not intentionally made with a therapeutic objective in the design process. An example is the videogame "Journey", first released for the Playstation 3 console in 2012 which won "Game of the Year" in the 2013 D.I.C.E awards. The creator of the game describes the game as a short, 2-3-hour narrative experience in which the player goes through the "Hero's Journey" following a classic 3-part structure. There were more than 100 testimonials from players describing how the game helped them cope with psychological or personal issues. Some of them explicitly described recovering from depressive episodes through playing the game.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a pilot test of the efficacy of the videogame Journey in reducing depressive symptoms in an acute impatient setting

METHODS

Depressive symptomatology was measured before and after the intervention using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD)

The intervention was conducted in an isolated room using a Playstation 3 console with the videogame "Journey" developed by Thatgamecompany. No internet access was allowed.

The game was played over the course of 4 30-45 min sessions in a two week period.

RESULTS

The initial score in the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) was 30, indicating a very severe depression. After the intervention the HRSD score was 10, showing a mild depression.

CONCLUSIONS

The Videogame Journey, a commercial game first available for the Playstation 3 console in 2012, was not created as a serious game with potential health benefits. Our pilot test is the first case report of a commercial game showing a potential effect in reducing depressive symptoms, which is consistent with the previous informal reports of users online.
Assessment of abduction motion in patients with rotator cuff tears: an analysis based on inertial sensors. (Preprint)
Authors: Roldan-Jimenez Cristina , Martin-Martin Jaime , Cuadros-Romero Miguel , Bennet Paul , McPhail Steven , Kerr Graham K. , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio I
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Reduced range of motion in the shoulder can be a source of functional limitation. The use of inertial sensors to quantify movement in addition to more common clinical assessments of the shoulder may allow clinicians to understand that are potentially unnoticed by the human eye.

OBJECTIVE

to generate an explanatory model for shoulder abduction based on data from inertial sensors

METHODS

Design: cross-sectional study. Participants: Shoulder abduction of thirteen older adults suffering from shoulder dysfunction. Setting: two inertial sensors placed on the humerus and scapula. Main Outcome measures: Movement variables (maximum angular mobility, angular peak of velocity, peak of acceleration) were used to explain the functionality of the upper limb (assessed using the Upper Limb Functional Index). Abduction movement of the shoulder was explained by six variables related to the mobility of the shoulder joint complex. A manova analysis was used to explain the results obtained on the functionality of the upper limb.

RESULTS

Results: The MANOVA model based on angular mobility explained 69% of the variance of the ULFI value (r-squared=0.69). The most relevant variables were the abduction-adduction of the humerus and the medial/lateral rotation of the scapula.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusions: The method used in the present study reveals the potential importance of the analysis of the scapular and humeral movements for comprehensive evaluation of the upper limb. Further research should include a wider sample and may seek to use this assessment technique in a range of potential clinical applications.
Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of a Mobile Insulin Titration Intervention for Uncontrolled Diabetes Patients: A Qualitative Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Rogers Erin , Aidasani Sneha R , Friedes Rebecca , Hu Lu , Langford Aisha T. , Moloney Dana N , Orzeck-Byrnes Natasha , Sevick Mary Ann , Levy Natalie
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

In 2016, a text-messaging intervention to titrate insulin in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes was implemented at two health care systems in New York City.

OBJECTIVE

This study conducted a qualitative evaluation assessing barriers to, and facilitators of, implementation of the mobile insulin titration intervention (called “MITI”) into usual care.

METHODS

We conducted in-depth interviews with patients enrolled in the MITI program (N=36) and staff involved in MITI (N=19) at the two health care systems. Interviews were transcribed and iteratively coded by two study investigators both inductively and deductively using a codebook guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

RESULTS

Multiple facilitator themes emerged: 1) MITI had strong relative advantages to in-person titration including its convenience and time-saving design; 2) the free cost of MITI was important to patients; 3) MITI was easy to use and patients were confident in their ability to use MITI; 4) MITI was compatible with patients’ home routines and clinic workflow; 5) patients and staff perceived MITI to have value beyond insulin titration by reminding and motivating patients to engage in healthy behaviors and providing a source of patient support; and 6) implementation in clinics was made easy by having a strong implementation climate, communication networks to spread information about MITI, and a strong program champion. Barriers identified included: 1) language limitations; 2) initial nurse concerns about scope of practice changes required to deliver MITI; 2) initial provider knowledge gaps about the program; and 3) provider perceptions that MITI may not be appropriate for some patients (e.g., older, not tech-savvy). There was also a theme that emerged during patient and staff interviewees of an unmet need for longer-term, additional diabetes management support among this population, specifically diet, nutrition and exercise support.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients and staff were overwhelmingly supportive of MITI, believed it had many benefits and believed it was compatible with the clinic workflow and patient’s lives. Initial implementation efforts should address staff training and nurse concerns. Future research should explore options for integrating additional diabetes support for patients.