bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using NSQIP data to determine when drains can be safely remove after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Nicolais Laura , BS Abdimajid Mohamed , Fitzgerald Timothy L.
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Prior retrospective studies demonstrate the need for drainage after pancreatoduodenectomy. Early drain removal is a key component of most ERAS pathways; however, little consensus on timing and cutoff for amylase analysis exists. This study aimed to identify the ideal combination of postoperative day and drain amylase level for safe drain removal.Methods: This retrospective cohort study used the NSQIP database to study outcomes of pancreatoduodenectomy patients. Results: 7,583 patients underwent pancreatoduodenectomy with drain placement. 1,458 (19%) had a clinically relavent postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF). Of those, 7% had their highest drain amylase on day 1, compared to 29% and 64% on day 3-5 and 5, respectively (p < 0.001). An amylase level >300 U/L corresponded to a 46% chance of CR-POPF compared to 4.9% with amylase <300 U/L (p < 0.001). Drain amylase >5000 U/L, corresponded to 71.2% chance of CR-POPF compared to 11.2% with amylase <5000 U/L (p < 0.001). Compared to >5000 U/L, an amylase cutoff of >300 U/L had a lower specificity on day 1 (93%, CI: 0.92, 0.93) and further decreases on postoperative day 3-5 (81%, CI: 0.79-0.98). The sensitivity of a cutoff >300 U/L was superior: 24% (CI: 0.19-0.29) on postoperative day 1 but increased significantly to 72% (CI: 0.67-0.76) on postoperative days 3-5. Conclusions: Current recommendations utilizing 5000 U/L will miss 6% of patients with CR-POPF. We recommend checking drain amylase on postoperative day three and to use 300 U/L as a cutoff for early drain removal protocols.
Displacement mitigation mechanism and parameters sensitivity analysis of steel moment frame retrofitted by self-centering braces
Authors: Lu Xiao , Xu Longhe
Published: April 2022

The steel moment frame (SMF) designed according to modern codes can prevent collapse and protect life safety, but may still experience excessive damage and residual displacement, resulting in high repair costs and long recovery time. The self-centering brace (SCB) is one of the most efficiency components to reduce the story drift and residual displacement of SMF. Although the mechanism of SCB reducing residual displacement has been fully studied, the mechanism of reducing story drift has not been well explained. Based on the equivalent single degree of freedom (SDOF) model, 24 analysis models of SMF, SMF retrofit by buckling restrained brace (BRBF), and SMF retrofit by self-centering brace (SCBF) with different fundamental periods are established in this paper. The seismic displacement mitigation mechanism of SCB is first comparatively studied using nonlinear time history analysis. Following this, 176 equivalent SDOF models representing a series of SCBFs with different key parameters (initial stiffness, post-activation stiffness coefficient and activation strength of SCB system) are established, and the influence of the key parameters of SCB on seismic responses of SCBF is discussed. Reasonable parameter value ranges are then proposed. Results show that the self-centering capacity of SCB can not only successfully reduce the residual displacement of the structure, but also effectively reduce the maximum displacement. The optimal value of the initial stiffness of the SCB is 0.6 ~ 1.2 times the initial stiffness of the SMF, the post-activation stiffness coefficient of the SCB should not exceed 0.1, and the optimal value of the activation strength of the SCB is 0.6 ~ 1.2 times the yield strength of the SMF.
Groundwater Vulnerability and Cemetery Urbanization Areas
Authors: de Oliveira Anselmo E , Saba Elias D. , Saba Jordana M. , Mendes Thiago A. , Cavalcante Andre L. B.
Published: April 2022

Water analysis and hydrological and geotechnical investigations were carried out in order to evaluate the influence of the decomposition of human bodies buried in a cemetery on aquifer vulnerability. Data collection on the unconfined aquifer from 2007 to 2018 took place at three monitoring wells built inside the cemetery area. Water quality monitoring through these years was evaluated for 25 analytical parameters (20 physicochemicals and 5 microbiologicals). Lab reports from neighboring cisterns located outside the cemetery area and carried out by the local sewage water company were also included in this work. Multivariate analyses from the water data showed a strong correlation between both iron contents and turbidity and the rainfall indicating a direct consequence of leaching from the soil (oxisol). According to the physical characterization data of the soil the unsaturated area above the aquifer favors the absorption of the body residuals by the soil, preventing it from reaching the aquifer. This work also found that collected water in areas outside the cemeteries and surrounding dwelling areas do not comply with federal norms for drinking water. In a conclusion, the water samples collected inside cemetery wells present low vulnerability to both subsurface and underground contamination.
Rapid epidemic expansion of Sars-Cov-2 Omicron BA.2 subvariant during China’s largest outbreaks
Authors: Dai Yeyu
Published: April 2022

A complete and accurate statistic panorama and analysis of cases contracted Sars-Cov-2 Omicron BA.2 subvariant are given under the conditions of strict mandatory quarantine and isolation and of high rate of full vaccination. Sars-Cov-2 is still new and human know little about either its direction of variation or its propagation laws. No country other than China has been able to disclose every infected case and to have the data of heavily intervened large outbreaks. Here my study reveals that the BA.2 subvariant can still spread very fast and wide in areas with strict “dynamic zero-Covid Policy” in China, that there exist in different cities as much as twenty-time big differences of morbidity rate unrelated to any of the influence factors known and that Omicron BA.2 subvariant is unpredictable of its virulence though its severe rate of confirmed cases is low. This analysis provides a first-hand solitary and valuable information for further research of similar epidemic in the future. It may bring new thoughts for correction of present epidemiologic theory and mathematic models. It may also give other countries time to be better prepared for the coming 6th wave driven by Omicron BA.2.
An unusual case of a traumatic splenic rupture masquerading as myocardial ischemia: A case report
Authors: Munasinghe B.M , Fernando U.P.M. , Kumar Thileep
Published: April 2022

BackgroundSpleen is one of the frequently injured abdominal organs during trauma which could result in intraperitoneal bleeding of life-threatening magnitude. Even though, splenic injury ensuing trivial trauma accounts for a minor fraction of splenic injury and might go unnoticed, delayed or missed diagnosis and management could result in a complicated clinical course.Case DescriptionOne such event is presented here, wherein late diagnosis of an advanced grade splenic injury following a trivial trauma initially presented in disguise as acute myocardial ischemia in a previously healthy South Asian lady in her late 30s. Emergency laparotomy and splenectomy were performed with simultaneous massive transfusion for a 3.5-liter blood loss. She had an uncomplicated clinical course with regular surgical follow-up. ConclusionSplenic injuries might present with atypical symptoms such as uncharacteristic chest pain and shoulder pain, necessitating attending clinicians to have a high degree of suspicion especially in busy units such as the emergency department.
AI-Based Automated Speech Therapy Tools for persons with Speech Sound Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Deka Chinmoy , Shrivastava Abhishek , Nautiyal Saurabh , Chauhan Praveen
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a systematic literature review of published studies on AI-based automated speech therapy tools for persons with speech sound disorders (SSD). The COVID-19 pandemic has initiated the requirement for automated speech therapy tools for persons with SSD making speech therapy accessible and affordable. However, there are no guidelines for designing such automated tools and their required degree of automation compared to human experts. In this systematic review, we followed the PRISMA framework to address four research questions: 1) what types of SSD do AI-based automated speech therapy tools address, 2) what is the level of autonomy achieved by such tools, 3) what are the different modes of intervention, and 4) how effective are such tools in comparison with human experts. An extensive search was conducted on digital libraries to find research papers relevant to our study from 2007 to 2022. The results show that AI-based automated speech therapy tools for persons with SSD are increasingly gaining attention among researchers. Articulation disorders were the most frequently addressed SSD based on the reviewed papers. Further, our analysis shows that most researchers proposed fully automated tools without considering the role of other stakeholders. Our review indicates that mobile-based and gamified applications were the most frequent mode of intervention. The results further show that only a few studies compared the effectiveness of such tools compared to expert Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP). Our paper presents the state-of- the-art in the field, contributes significant insights based on the research questions, and provides suggestions for future research directions.
Risky anatomical variations of sphenoid sinus and surrounding structures in endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Fadda Gian Luca , Petrelli Alessio , Urbanelli Anastasia , Castelnuovo Paolo , Bignami Maurizio , Crosetti Erika , Succo Giovanni , Cavallo Giovanni
Published: April 2022

Purpose This study aimed to examine the relationship between the SS and surrounding vital structures such as the internal carotid artery (ICA) and optic nerve canal (ONC) as well as the types of attachment of the sphenoidal septa onto these structures.Methods In total, 230 computed tomography (CT) scans were reviewed to study the type of sphenoid sinus pneumatization (SSP), the protrusion and dehiscence of the ICA and ONC, the relationship between the sphenoidal septa and surrounding vital structures as well as pterygoid recess pneumatization (PRP).Results The most common SSP was sellar type (58.7%). The rates of protrusion and dehiscence of the ICA were 26.3% and 0.4%, and for the ONC, they were 13% and 1.5%, respectively. The ICA and ONC were most protruded and dehiscent in more extensive SSP. In 21.6% of patients, the intersphenoidal septa (IS) were attached to the wall of the ICA and in 8.6% they were attached to the wall of the ONC. The attachment of IS to the ICA correlated statistically significantly (p<0.0001) with protrusion of the ICA. Accessory septa were detected in 30.4% of cases with various sites of attachment.Conclusion To reduce the risk of injury and complications during ESS, surgeons should consider using CT to identify possible bulging and dehiscence of the ICA/ONC and their relationship to the extent of SSP and also to establish the presence of deviation of the sphenoid septum, and the presence of accessory septa.
Development of a mathematical model of Multiple Linear Regression, with Factor Analysis, to predict the settlement of a landfill in Southern Brazil
Authors: Dai-Prá Léa Beatriz , Gomes Luciana Paulo , Carlson Renato Luiz Romera , Caetano Marcelo Oliveira , Grondona Atílio Efrain Bica
Published: April 2022

Several researches have been developed, since the 1970s, to determine the behavior of landfills. An example of these studies is the application of mathematical models to predict settlements. This work aimed to develop a mathematical model for prediction of settlements, applied to the landfill in the city of São Leopoldo - RS, Brazil, managed by the Companhia Riograndense de Valorização de Residuos (CRVR). A mathematical model was developed to predict the landfill settlements under study, by means of a Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) statistical analysis, including Factor Analysis by the Principal Components method, via Varimax Rotation. The model used the CRVR leachate monitoring parameters, dated from 2014 to 2018, and presented an adherence of 80% to the actual settlement data. It was found that the use of settlement prediction models, through MLR analysis, is adequate for estimating the lifecycle of landfills, as long as some adjustments are made in monitoring the data (frequency of monitoring and continuous monitoring of parameters). It must also be considered that each landfill has its particularities, being necessary a case-by-case analysis in order to make sure that the model meets the landfill under study.
A community-based confinement strategy to reduce the spread of Ebola Virus Disease: An analysis of the 2018-2020 outbreak in the DRC.
Authors: Keita Mory , Polonsky Jonathan A. , Ahuka-Mundeke Steve , Ilumbulumbu Michel Kalongo , Dakissaga Adama , Boiro Hamadou , Anoko Julienne Ngoundoung , Diassy Lamine , Ngwama John Kombe , Tosalisana Michel Kasereka , Nsio Justus , Chérif Ibrahima Sory , Boland Samuel T. , Delamou Alexandre , Yam Abdoulaye , Gueye Abdou Salam , Flahault Antoine , Dagron Stephanie , Keiser Olivia , Fall Ibrahima Socé
Published: April 2022

BackgroundDespite tremendous progress on Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), challenges remain in the implementation of holistic strategies to quickly stop outbreaks. We investigated the effectiveness of a community-based confinement strategy to limit the spread of EVD during the tenth documented EVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), 2018 - 2020.MethodsWe did a community-based, open-label, two-group, unrandomized controlled intervention. Eligible participants were EVD contacts registered by epidemiological surveillance teams from November 2019 to May 2020 in the two last hotspots (Beni and Mabalako Health Zones). Intervention group participants were confined in specific community sites of their preference for the duration of their follow-up. Control group participants underwent CT without confinement and were allowed to continue their daily activities. The primary outcome was the number of confirmed secondary cases in the two groups. Secondary outcomes included delay between symptom onset and isolation, case fatality rate, survival rate, and vaccination rate. Data were analyzed using various quantitative methods.FindingsA total of 27,324 EVD contacts were included in the study. 585 contacts were confined and followed up (‘the intervention group’), and 26,739 were followed up without confinement. The intervention group generated 32 confirmed cases (5.5%) in the first generation, while the control group generated just 87 (0.3%). However, the 32 confirmed cases from the intervention contacts did not generate any onward transmission (R=0.00), whereas the 87 confirmed cases from the non-intervention group generated 99 secondary cases (R = 1.14). Results for the secondary outcomes showed significant difference between the two groups. The delay between symptom onset and case isolation was shorter (1.3 vs 4.8 days; p<0.0000), CFR lower (12.5% vs. 52.9%; p=0.0001), and vaccination rate higher (86.0% vs 56.8%; p<0.0000) in the intervention group compared to the control group. A significant difference was also found between intervention and control groups in survival rate at the 16-day follow-up (87.9% vs. 47.7%, respectively; p=0.0004).InterpretationThe community-based confinement strategy used in DRC is effective for the rapid cessation of EVD transmission, highlighting the importance of rapidly implemented, innovative and community-oriented control strategies.
Structural Transformation Path Across Countries: Is it a Systematic Pattern?
Authors: Padder Altaf Hussain , Mathavan B
Published: April 2022

The structural transformation across the economic sectors is one of the prominent features that go together with economic development. The paper scrutinizes whether developing and low-income countries follow a similar path and pattern of structural transformation by which the developed countries are following or following this threshold and are now experiencing a shift from the industrial sector to the service sector. The structural transformation paths of developed countries are almost identical, but the pattern of sectoral output shares varies from that of developing countries. The research reveals a fascinating finding i.e., low-income countries outperform middle-income countries and some major countries in terms of the pace of structural transformation from agriculture to the service sector.
Identification of commensals and molecular components mediating trypsin degradation in the large intestine
Authors: Honda Kenya , Atarashi Koji , Sasajima Satoshi , Wang Zhujun , Nishiyama Keita , Matsunaga Takahiro , Zhang Xiaoxi , Olle Bernat , Norman Jason , Suda Wataru , Hattori Masahira , Watanabe Kazuto , Watanabe Eiichiro , Fujishiro Jun , Matsuyama Shutoku , Ujike Makoto , Li Youxian , Kawashima Yusuke , Ohara Osamu , Kearney Sean , Plichta Damian , Xavier Ramnik , Ang Qi Yan , Wu Runrun , Furuichi Munehiro , Takeshita Kozue , Yoshida Koji , Namkoong Ho , Uwamino Yoshifumi , Ishii Makoto , Fukunaga Koichi , Hasegawa Naoki
Published: April 2022

The gastrointestinal tract is constitutively exposed to proteases including trypsin, a serine protease originating from the pancreas1. Elevated trypsin levels in the large intestine have been implicated in pathological conditions including infectious and inflammatory bowel disease2-4. Here we show that trypsin is regulated via degradation by members of the gut microbiota. After passing through the small intestine, trypsin activity is markedly reduced in the caecum of specific pathogen-free (SPF) mice, whereas germ-free (GF) mice have high luminal trypsin levels. We have successfully identified and isolated Paraprevotella strains from the faecal microbiome of healthy human donors as potent trypsin-degrading commensals. Mechanistically, Paraprevotella recruit trypsin to the bacterial surface through type IX secretion system-dependent polysaccharide-anchoring proteins and promote trypsin autolysis. Paraprevotella colonization protects IgA from trypsin degradation and enhances the effectiveness of oral vaccines against Citrobacter rodentium. Moreover, Paraprevotella colonization inhibits lethal infection with murine hepatitis virus, a mouse coronavirus dependent on trypsin and trypsin-like proteases for entry into host cells5,6. Congruently, carriage of putative genes involved in trypsin degradation in the gut microbiome was associated with reduced diarrhoea severity in patients with SARS-CoV2 infection. Therefore, trypsin-degrading commensal colonization may contribute to the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and protection from pathogen infection.
Atoms in Gaseous and Solid States and their Energy and Force Relationships under Transitional Behaviors
Authors: Ali Mubarak
Published: April 2022

By recalling the conventional studies of the atoms, it is possible to discover the new insights tackling the present and future challenges. Atoms of different elements are formed by the electrons and energy knots. In different elements, atoms are recognized on the basis of numbers of electrons and energy knots. The intercrossing of photons in fixed lengths and numbers constructs the lattice of an atom depending on how many filled and unfilled states in its element are allocated. In intercrossing, the centers of the overt photons remain fixed at a common point. Gaseous atoms keep different schemes of intercrossing overt photons from solid atoms. Except for hydrogen atom, the atoms possess the same valency as specified for them. In the hydrogen atom, two electrons are occupied by the two energy knots. In the helium atom, four electrons are occupied by the four energy knots. A helium atom is related to the zeroth ring in all higher order atoms. In order to validate these aforementioned statements, the concept of considering protons and neutrons is no longer significant. As far as the gaseous atoms are concerned, electrons possess minimum required potential energy. In more than half the length, the electrons remain above the middle of occupied energy knots in the gaseous atoms. Electrons keep on experiencing maximum required levitational force along the north pole. In solid atoms, electrons possess maximum required potential energy. In more than half the length, the electrons remain below the middle of occupied energy knots in the solid atoms. Electrons keep on experiencing maximum required gravitational force along the south pole. Under the established relation of energy and force, atoms undertake the transition states. In the transition, electrons of the atom deal with infinitesimal displacements by remaining within the occupied energy knots. Related orientational force keeps on exerting to the electrons introducing the recovery, neutral, re-crystallization and liquid states for their atoms. In the conversion of gaseous atom into the liquid state, electrons left to the center of atom orientate north to east clockwise, and electrons right to the centre of atom orientate north to west anti-clockwise. In the conversion of solid atom into the liquid state, electrons left to the center of atom orientate south to east anti-clockwise, and electrons right to the center of atom orientate south to west clockwise. These fundamental revolutions shed new light on the development of science and engineering of materials.
Association between triglyceride–glucose index and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Chen En , Li Wei , Wang Yan , He Feng , Liu Zhuo , Dong Jie , Zhang Yuqi , Li Tianfang , Liu Shengyun
Published: April 2022

Background: Lipid and glucose metabolism abnormalities are associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index is a recently developed indicator that can identify individuals at risk for NAFLD. However, the applicability of the TyG index for identifying NAFLD in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of the TyG index to identify individuals at risk for NAFLD in the T2DM population.Methods: A total of 2280 participants with T2DM were recruited in this cross-sectional study. The TyG index was calculated, and NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography. Binary logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association of the TyG index, glycemic parameters and lipid parameters with NAFLD.Results: Logistic regression analysis showed that the TyG index was significantly associated with NAFLD in subjects with T2DM, the odds ratio (OR) were 3.27 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.03–5.27; P < 0.001) for NAFLD in the highest TyG quartile after adjustment for known confounders (Model 4). In stratified analysis, an elevated TyG index is significantly associated with NAFLD in younger patients (<65 years; OR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.83–3.02; P < 0.001), females (OR, 2.69; 95% CI, 1.67–4.32; P < 0.001), patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (OR, 2.80; 95% CI, 2.01–3.91; P < 0.0001), and with lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (<1 mmol/L; OR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.98–3.83; P < 0.001).Conclusion: The TyG index is remarkably associated with NAFLD and shows superior ability for identify NAFLD risk compared with other lipid and glycemic parameters in the T2DM population.
The influence of morphologic grading and COS protocol on the outcome of Day 5 versus Day 6 single fresh blastocyst transfers: a retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes
Authors: Chen Zhilan , Wei Li , Xiao Cong , Li Yanmin , Gong Aidong
Published: April 2022

Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the blastocyst morphologic grading and the protocol of controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) would influence effect estimates, aiming to provide guidance when choosing blastocyst transfer. Methods The clinical data of 612 patients who received single fresh blastocyst transplantation for first cycle, as well as the data of 253 patients who had already delivered were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups according to blastocyst formation time (D5 or D6). The following subgroup analyses were performed: (i) the morphologic grading of blastocyst. and (ii) the protocol of COS. Results We observed that D5 single embryo transfer (SET) were associated with higher clinical pregnancy rate (CPR, 59.04% VS 31.73%) and live birth rate (LBR, 43.90% VS 24.04%) than D6 SET following fresh cycle. Patients in D5 group experienced more good blastocysts transfer (45.47% VS 13.46%) and less poor blastocysts transfer (9.64% VS 45.19%) than patients in D6 group. As to early stage and good quality blastocysts, the CPR and LBR were similar between D5 and D6 group. GnRHa antagonist protocol had a demonstrable inferiority comparing with the GnRHa follicular or luteal phase protocol with regard to the CPR and LBR in D6-SET group.Conclusions The analysis found that ovarian reserve of patients in D6-SET group was comparatively worse than that of patients in D5-SET group and D6-SET patients represented a subgroup of infertility patients usually having relatively poor embryo quality.
Implementasi Metode Mind Mapping dengan Menggunakan Media Power Point dalam Pembelajaran Nahwu
Authors: Sidik Anwar , Muassomah Muassomah
Published: April 2022

This reseacrh aims to describe the process and how to implement mind mapping methods using power point media in nahwu learning in third semester students of Arabic education at the Bani Fatah Islamic Institute in Jombang. This type of research is descriptive qualitative using observation and documentation research instruments. The subject and object of research are the third semester students of Arabic education. The results of the reseacrh are as follows: First, the learning process of nahwu by implementing the mind mapping method using power point media is very active with indicators in the form of: a) Students prepare and present learning material with mind mapping created with power point media. b) Discuss between groups after presentation. c) Design learning material with mind mapping using power point media. d) Present the results in sequence. e) Lecturers reflect on learning by involving students. Second, how to implement it as follows: a) The lecturer prepares the material and the projector. b) The lecturer conveys the learning objectives. c) Students and teachers do questions and answers. d) Students are divided into five groups. e) Students present their mind mapping results using power points systematically. f) The lecturer guides the discussion. g) Lecturers appreciate and correct the results of student mind mapping. h) The lecturer explains and summarizes the materials that have been presented by students.
Al-Ikhtilāf al-Naḥwī fI al-Lahjah al-ʿĀmmīyah al-Sūdānīyah: Dirāsah Waṣfīyah min Khilāl al-Amthāl al-Shaʿbīyah
Authors: Mustafa Gareeb Allah Babiker
Published: April 2022

This research aims to clarify the positions and causes of the grammatical difference between the Sudanese dialect and the classical Arabic language by applying to popular proverbs. His approach is descriptive, and one of the most important results is that the Sudanese dialect is one of the largest Arabic dialects currently spoken in the Sudan and in its neighbouring countries. The Sudanese dialect tends to soften the last words in order to mitigate. The connection of mawṣūl (ال) is verbal or nominal sentence or jar-majrūr, which does not adhere to explicit status, and removes the much-returned conscience. The verb (كان) used as a tool of condition in many places. The majrūr nouns is often read as marfūʿ or manṣūb. The double (muthanná) and plural (jamaʿ mudhakkar sālim) read with yā' sign in all positions.
Strategies in Medicinal Chemistry to Discover New Hit Compounds against Ebola Virus: Challenges and Perspectives in Drug Discovery
Authors: dos Santos Nascimento Igor José , da Silva Santos-Júnior Paulo Fernando , de Araújo-Júnior João Xavier , da Silva-Júnior Edeildo Ferreira
Published: April 2022

Ebola Virus (EBOV) is an infectious disease that mainly affects the cardiovascular system. It belongs to the Filoviridae family, consisting of filamentous envelopes and non-segmented negative RNA genome. EBOV was initially identified in Sudan and Zaire (now named the Democratic Republic of Congo) around 1967. It is transmitted mainly by contact with secretions (blood, sweat, saliva, and tears) from infected wild animals, such as non-human primates and bats. It has gained more prominence in recent years due to the recent EBOV outbreaks that occurred from 2013 to 2016, resulting in approximately 28,000 infected individuals, with a mortality rate of 40- 70%, affecting mainly Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. Despite these alarming levels, there is still no FDA-approved drug for the effective treatment of these diseases. The most advanced drug to treat EBOV is remdesivir. However, it is a high-cost drug and is available only for intravenous use. In this sense, more investments are needed in the research focused on the development of new antiviral drugs. In this context, medicinal chemistry strategies have been improving and increasingly discovering new hits that can be used in the future as a treatment against these diseases. Thus, this review will address the main advances in medicinal chemistry, such as drug discovery through computational techniques (virtual screening and virtual high throughput screening), drug repurposing, phenotypic screening assays, and employing classical medicinal chemistry, such as bioisosterism, metabolism-based drug design, and the discovery of new inhibitors through natural products, thereby presenting several promising compounds that may contain the advance of these pathogens.
Highlighting the Potential Role of Exosomes as the Targeted Nanotherapeutic
Carrier in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Barnwal Ravi P. , Kumar Santosh , Singh Gurpal , Khera Alisha , Alajangi Hema K. , Khajuria Akhil
Published: April 2022

Breast cancer, being the second most common type of cancer, is a leading cause of death in
the female population. Of all the available treatments existing for breast cancer, exosomes appear as an
important medium for the site targeted delivery of the drugs. Exosomes, unlike all the other extracellular
vesicles, play a vital role in the transport of numerous biomolecules throughout the body and can
easily be detected because of the presence of specific biomarkers. Apart from playing a wide variety of
roles in the progression of many diseases, they are also responsible for tumor progression and metastasis
in breast cancer. Exosomes and related engineering strategies are being discussed as nano-carrier for
the delivery of different drugs in the case of breast cancer. Overall, we have discussed in this review the
role of exosomes in breast cancer and the engineering strategies being devised for making them an efficient
drug delivery system.
Polysaccharides: A Carrier for Gene Therapy
Authors: Yang Jing , Li Yalan , Wang Rui , Bai Haotian
Published: April 2022

Recently, polysaccharides have been proved to be an interesting drug delivery system as gene
carriers, and natural polysaccharides have attracted more attention in the field of biomaterials due to
their unique non-toxicity, good biocompatibility, and biodegradability. Compared with other polysaccharides,
chitosan and dextran have more extensive and profound applications and can directly or indirectly
deliver therapeutic genes. Chinese medicinal polysaccharides often do not have cationic groups
and cannot directly deliver therapeutic genes. They usually need certain chemical modifications. The
operation process is difficult, but better therapeutic effects are achieved. In this paper, the classification
of polysaccharides and the research progress in modified polysaccharides as novel gene carriers are
reviewed to provide a reference for polysaccharides as novel gene carriers in gene therapy. Moreover,
efficient transfection of DNA and RNA therapeutic genes requires the development of new efficient and
low-toxic vectors as well as the optimization of existing delivery vectors. Therefore, the research on
polysaccharide gene vector has a long way to go and has good prospects in scientific research and biomedicine.
Decreasing Tryptophan and Increasing Neopterin Plasma Levels During Pregnancy are Associated with High First TrimesterPorphyromonas gingivalisK-Serotype IgG Serointensity in a Cohort of Hispanic Women
Authors: Postolache Teodor T. , Upadhyaya Sanjaya K. , Spector Anna M. , Mohyuddin Iqra , Constantine Niel , Ernst Robert K. , Wadhawan Abhishek , Dutra Samia Valeria Ozorio , Dagdag Aline , Makkar Hina , Lowry Christopher A. , Akram Faisal , Fuchs Dietmar , Brenner Lisa A. , Groer Maureen W. , Reynolds Mark A.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Immune activation or high levels of stress may lead to increased metabo-lism of tryptophan during pregnancy. Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), the “keystone” periodontal pathogen, induces immune and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activation. Thus, we hypothe-sized that larger gestational decreases in tryptophan and elevations in neopterin and kynurenine would occur in pregnant women with elevated IgG antibodies to Pg capsular (K) serotypes.

Methods:

Venous blood of 52 Hispanic pregnant women with a mean age (SD) of 31.8 (5.9) years was sampled once per trimester of pregnancy (V1, V2, V3), and plasma was obtained and stored. ELISAs were used to measure Pg capsular (K) serotype IgG serointensity (V1 only) and neopterin levels (V1-V3). Tryptophan and kynurenine (V1-V3) were measured with high-performance liquid chromatography. The participants having IgG serointensity for any of the seven Pg K serotypes in the highest quartile were defined as the “High PgK_IgG” group and those having IgG serointensity for all K serotypes in the lowest three quartiles were defined as the “Low PgK_IgG” group. Statis-tics included multivariable linear and nonparametric methods.

Results:

Significant decreases in plasma tryptophan levels and increases in neopterin during gesta-tion were found in “High PgK_IgG” women but not in “Low PgK_IgG” women. Kynurenine changes were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusions:

If replicated in larger studies and further characterized clinically, radiologically, and microbiologically, our results may potentially lead to novel interventional targets, as well as the de-velopment of more complete prognostic and predictive interactive biomarkers for adverse obstetri-cal outcomes and peripartum depression, and their prevention.
The Application of Metal-Organic Frameworks in the Adsorptive Removal
of Harmful Species from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Lin Wensong , Shi Xue-Rong , Duan Zhichang , Sun Chunyan , Zhang Xiangrui
Published: April 2022

Removing harmful species from water is essential for the protection of the environment and
human health. Among various treatment techniques, adsorption is particularly attractive because of its
advantages of easy operation, high removal efficiency, environmental friendliness, and simple regeneration
of the adsorbent. As the key factor of this technique, the choice of adsorbent is vital. Metal-organic
frameworks (MOFs) have been widely used as adsorbents to remove dyes, pharmaceuticals and personal
care products (PPCPs), and metal ions from aqueous solutions because of their high porosity, structural
diversity, and highly tunable pore shape/size and surface functionality. This work systematically
reviews the recent progress on applying different types of MOFs, e.g., ZIF, MIL, and UiO series, in the
field of adsorption of these harmful species. Modification of novel MOF materials can greatly improve
their adsorption performance. This review provides a direction for the rational design of MOF adsorbents
to effectively remove various pollutants from water.
Current Scenario of Clinical Diagnosis to Identify Inborn Errors of Metabolism with Precision Profiling for Expanded Screening in Infancy in a Resource-limited Setting
Authors: Mukherjee Sukhes , Kotnis Ashwin , Ray Suman Kumar , Vaidyanathan Kannan , Singh Snighdha , Mittal Rishabh
Published: April 2022

Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are a diverse collection of abnormalities that cause a
variety of morbidities and mortality in children and are classified as uncommon genetic diseases.
Early and accurate detection of the condition can save a patient's life. By aiding families as they
navigate the experience of having a child with an IEM, healthcare practitioners have the chance to
reduce the burden of negative emotional consequences. New therapeutic techniques, such as enzyme
replacement and small chemical therapies, organ transplantation, and cellular and gene-based
therapies using whole-genome sequencing, have become available in addition to traditional medical
intake and cofactor treatments. In the realm of metabolic medicine and metabolomics, the twentyfirst
century is an exciting time to be alive. The availability of metabolomics and genomic analysis
has led to the identification of a slew of novel diseases. Due to the rarity of individual illnesses, obtaining
high-quality data for these treatments in clinical trials and real-world settings has proven difficult.
Guidelines produced using standardized techniques have helped enhance treatment delivery
and clinical outcomes over time. This article gives a comprehensive description of IEM and how to
diagnose it in patients who have developed clinical signs early or late. The appropriate use of standard
laboratory outcomes in the preliminary patient assessment is also emphasized that can aid in the
ordering of specific laboratory tests to confirm a suspected diagnosis, in addition, to begin treatment
as soon as possible in a resource limiting setting where genomic analysis or newborn screening facility
is not available.
Pharmacology Management in Improving Exercise Capacity of Patients
with Fontan Circulation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Mendel Brian , Christianto  , Setiawan Moira , Siagian Sisca Natalia , Prakoso Radityo
Published: April 2022

Background:

The Fontan procedure is currently the mainstay therapy for single functional
ventricles. However, with prolonged follow-up duration, various complications have been
observed that seriously influence the quality of life of patients.

Objectives:

The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare the effectiveness of pharmacologic agents
in improving exercise capacity in patients with Fontan circulation.

Methods:

This meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic
Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement and has been registered in the International
Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews database with registration no. 282352. Quality
assessments of the included studies were assessed using the Strengthening Reporting of Observational
Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement.

Results:

Twelve studies met the predetermined inclusion criteria and were included in this metaanalysis.
This meta-analysis found that treatment with bosentan significantly improved New York
Heart Association Functional Class (NYHA FC) in Fontan patients (standard mean difference -
0.59, 95% CI -0.94 – -0.25; P=0.0008; I2 = 1%). However, the use of bosentan (P=0.66) and
sildenafil (P=0.13) did not show a significant improvement in the maximum rate of oxygen consumption
(VO2 max).

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis shows that people with Fontan circulation may benefit from using
bosentan as it decreases postexercise heart rate and improves NYHA FC and 6-minute walking test
results. Therefore, indirectly improving exercise capacity. Nonetheless, considerable work is required
to strengthen our knowledge in improving the exercise capacity of Fontan patients.
Heterocyclic Compounds: Importance in Anticancer Drug Discovery
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Goel Nidhi
Published: April 2022

Cancer, a crucial global health problem, is characterized by abnormal cell division and uncontrolled growth.
According to WHO, cancer is the second leading cause of global deaths and accounted for approximately 9.6 million
deaths or one in six deaths in 2018. The National Cancer Registry Programme Report 2020, released by the ICMRIndia,
estimated that there would be 13,90,000 cases of cancer in India in 2020 and that this number is likely to rise to
15,70,000 by 2025. In spite of several anti-cancer drugs, cancer cannot be cured completely, especially at late stages. In
the current era, almost every person is suffering from some kind of disease. Thus, it is the necessity of time to develop
novel, potent bioactive molecules. Many researchers are working on the development of new lead molecules or finding
a new biological target for the betterment of human beings. However, heterocycles are constantly being used for the
discovery of new lead molecules. Many of the clinically approved drugs contain the heterocyclic core as these molecules
show exhilarating pharmaceutical properties, including anti-cancer agents such as methotrexate, vinblastine,
vincristine, daunorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin, etc. Thus, heterocyclic compounds provide a fascinating research
area for the design and development of anti-cancer drug(s). Herein, we focused on the natural as well as synthetic
anti-cancer heterocyclic compounds. Furthermore, efforts have been made toward the mechanism of action of selected
heterocyclic anti-cancer compounds.
The Effect of Curcumin on the Expression of INFγ, TNF-α, and iNOS Genes in PBMCs Infected with Leishmania major [MRHO/IR/75/ER]
Authors: Alinejad Soheila , Khademvatan Shahram , Amani Shahla , Asadi Negar , Tappeh Khosrow Hazrati , Yousefi Elham , Miandoabi Touraj
Published: April 2022

Background:

Leishmaniasis, caused by the Leishmania parasite, is one of the most important tropical neglected diseases. The urgent search for effective, inexpensive, and preferably herbal anti-leishmanial agents, is needed.

Objective:

Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound derived from turmeric that is well known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-cancer activity.

Methods:

The present work evaluates the anti-leishmanial [Leishmania major] activity of curcumin. The infected PBMCs were treated with curcumin. The ROS level at 6, 12, 24 h and gene expression levels at 24, 48, and 72 h of PBMCs after treatment with curcumin were determined.

Results:

Based on the results, the curcumin concentrations of 268 μM [24 h] and 181.2 μM [72 h] were defined as IC50 against L. major promastigotes. Treatment of L. major infected-peripheral blood mononuclear cells [PBMCs] with IC50 concentrations of curcumin, depending on exposure time, significantly induced the reactive oxygen species [ROS] generation and increased the expression levels of interferongamma [IFN-γ], tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], and nitric oxide synthase [iNOS] genes.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest the potential of curcumin against Leishmaniasis.
Hypersensitivity to Febuxostat in a Patient with a Previous Allopurinolinduced
Steven-Johnson Syndrome: A Case Report of Treatment with a
Slow Desensitization Protocol
Authors: Calogiuri Gianfranco , Congedo Maurizio , Nettism Eustachio , Macchia Luigi , Foti Caterina , Vacca Angelo
Published: April 2022

Background:

We report the case of a 43-year-old Chinese male with Tophaceous gout who had been living in Italy for some years.

Case Presentation:

Previous treatments with allopurinol had induced Steven Johnson syndrome, dictating a switch to febuxostat 80 mg daily. After two years of treatment with febuxostat, he developed a diffuse maculopapular rash with severe itching. Rheumatologists stopped febuxostat; however, gout worsened over the following years despite treatment with kalnicitrate and colchicine. Therefore, an allergy consultation was called for. A slow desensitization protocol with febuxostat was started, with a low oral dosage scheme to be increased up to 80 mg/day. Febuxostat was prepared in a solid formulation by the consultation pharmacist as pills instead of the more frequently used liquid suspension.

Conclusion:

The patient is currently receiving febuxostat 80 mg, and he has shown no side effects as of now, while his gout has improved. This is the first reported example and he has shown no side effect till now, while his gout improved of a successful desensitization protocol using a solid preparation of diluted febuxostat given as pills.
Natural Compounds as Potential Anti-COVID Agents
Authors: Rani Nidhi , Singh Randhir , Kumar Praveen , Sharma Prerna , Sharma Vikas
Published: April 2022

Background:

health crisis in the world and has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by WHO. A number of treatment strategies have been utilized to encounter the prevailing disease. But still the need of most appropriate therapeutic agent is still awaited. In search of anti-COVID treatment regimen, molecular docking approach was used to identify the natural compounds which may have potential for treatment of COVID and acts on specific target and possess selective mechanism. Our goal is to identify the potential anti-COVID compounds from the natural resources via virtual screening and protein of spike glycoprotein was considered as virtual inhibition.

Method.:

Molecular docking was carried out by using Molergo Virtual Docker. 35 compounds from different plant sources were selected and docked in the enzyme pocket.
Results. The docking result revealed that some of the compounds exhibited good potency against the virus and can be used further for developing new drug regimen.
Conclusion. The compounds of natural origin could be a good target and can be used as lead compounds for the treatment of this dreadful disease.
Innovations in Natural Fibre Reinforced Composites for Improved Performance
Authors: Gokarneshan N.
Published: April 2022

Natural fibre reinforced composites have become the new choice owing to their versatility in varied end use applications, economical and eco considerations as well. Efforts have been directed towards replacing them with their synthetic counter parts which prove to be more expensive. Mechanical and tribological characteristics of natural fibre reinforced composites have gained focus. Different types of natural fibre composites have been chemically treated to improve certain performance aspects. Also, properties related to energy absorption and water absorption have been evaluated. Studies have been carried out on fibres that include coconut sheath, flax seed fibre, jute, and areca sheath fibre. The ballistic performance, abrasive behaviour, ecological aspects, etc. have been given due consideration.
Application of Surface Modification Routes to Coconut Fiber for its Thermoplastic-Based Biocomposite Materials
Authors: Tayfun U.
Published: April 2022

Coconut fibers are high potential reinforcing additive in green polymer composites due to its composition, structure and the ease of availability. Modifications of coconut fiber by chemical and physical methods play key role to achieve desired performance. This review provides a comprehensive description of the influence of varied treatment routes applied to coconut fiber to confer thermal, mechanical and structural behaviors of its eco-composites with reinforcing mechanisms achieved by the help of tunning surface functionality of fibers as well as the chemical interactions with the polymeric matrix. This review covers the related academic research studies dealing with the development of thermoplastic composites containing surface modified coconut fiber. Remarkable future objectives and challenges based on the use of this natural fiber as an effective reinforcing agent in mainly transportation and construction fields are also discussed.
Axel Honneth/Jacques Rancière: Anerkennung oder Unvernehmen?
Authors: Honold Christoph
Published: April 2022

Rezension von Axel Honneth und Jacques Rancière: Anerkennung oder Unvernehmen. Eine Debatte. Herausgegeben von Katia Genel und Jean-Philoppe Deranty. Berlin: Suhrkamp 2021.