bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The selective anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effect of A. cherimola on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line
Authors: Younes Maria , Ammoury Carl , Haykal Tony , Nasr Leah , Sarkis Rita , Rizk Sandra
Published: November 2020

Background

Herbal medicines have been a major target for numerous studies through the past years as an alternative treatment for cancer, mainly due to their minimal effects on normal healthy cells. Annona cherimola, popularly known as Cherimoya, is an edible natural fruit rich in phytochemical components and known to possess various biological activities. Previous studies have reported the anti-cancerous effect of A. cherimola ethanolic leaf extract (AELE) on leukemia. This study aims at studying the potential anti-cancer activity of this extract in vitro in two different breast cancer cell lines, namely MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7, in addition to investigating its toxicity on normal mesenchymal stem cells.

Methods

The anti-proliferative effect of AELE was evaluated via cell viability assay. Propidium iodide staining, Cell Death Detection ELISA and flow cytometry analysis of Annexin V binding were used to assess cell cycle progression, DNA fragmentation and apoptosis induction, respectively. Protein expression was determined via Western Blot analysis to decipher the underlying apoptotic molecular mechanism induced upon AELE treatment.

Results

The anti-proliferative effect of the extract was found to be selective on the triple-negative breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) in a time- and dose-dependent manner with an IC50 of 390.2 μg/mL at 48 h, with no cytotoxic effects on normal murine mesenchymal stem cells. The pro-apoptotic effect was confirmed by the increase in cellular and DNA fragmentation, flipping of the phosphatidylserine moiety to the outer leaflet, and the increase in Annexin V binding. The underlying molecular mechanism revealed the involvement of the mitochondrial pathway, as shown by alterations in mitochondrial permeability and the upregulation of cytochrome c expression.

Conclusion

All the data presented in our study suggest that AELE exhibits a selective anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effect on the chemo-resistant MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, providing evidence for the anti-tumor effects of A. cherimola.
Virtual screening and network pharmacology-based synergistic mechanism identification of multiple components contained in Guanxin V against coronary artery disease
Authors: Liang Bo , Zhang Xiao-Xiao , Gu Ning
Published: November 2020

Background

Guanxin V (GXV), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been widely used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD) in clinical practice in China. However, research on the active components and underlying mechanisms of GXV in CAD is still scarce.

Methods

A virtual screening and network pharmacological approach was utilized for predicting the pharmacological mechanisms of GXV in CAD. The active compounds of GXV based on various TCM-related databases were selected and then the potential targets of these compounds were identified. Then, after the CAD targets were built through nine databases, a PPI network was constructed based on the matching GXV and CAD potential targets, and the hub targets were screened by MCODE. Moreover, Metascape was applied to GO and KEGG functional enrichment. Finally, HPLC fingerprints of GXV were established.

Results

A total of 119 active components and 121 potential targets shared between CAD and GXV were obtained. The results of functional enrichment indicated that several GO biological processes and KEGG pathways of GXV mostly participated in the therapeutic mechanisms. Furthermore, 7 hub MCODEs of GXV were collected as potential targets, implying the complex effects of GXV-mediated protection against CAD. Six specific chemicals were identified.

Conclusion

GXV could be employed for CAD through molecular mechanisms, involving complex interactions between multiple compounds and targets, as predicted by virtual screening and network pharmacology. Our study provides a new TCM for the treatment of CAD and deepens the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of GXV against CAD.
Uptake of cervical cancer screening service and associated factors among age-eligible women in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ayenew Asteray Assmie , Zewdu Biruk Ferede , Nigussie Azezu Asres
Published: November 2020

Background

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women in developing countries. Since cervical cancer is a preventable disease, screening is an important control and prevention strategy, recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for all women aged 30 years and older, and even earlier for some high-risk women. Therefore the aim of this study was to assess the uptake of cervical cancer screening among age-eligible women in Ethiopia.

Method

Review identification was performed through the search of online databases PubMed, Google Scholar, HINARI, EMBASE, Science Direct, Cochrane library, African Journals, and other gray and online repository accessed studies were searched using different search engines. For critical appraisal of studies, Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) was used. The analysis was conducted by using STATA 11 software. To test the heterogeneity of studies, the Cochran Q test and I2 test statistics were used. To detect publication bias of the studies, the funnel plot and Egger’s test were used. The pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening and the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval were presented using forest plots.

Result

Twenty-four studies with a total of 14,582 age-eligible women were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled national level of cervical cancer screening among age-eligible women in Ethiopia was 13.46% (95%CI:11.06,15.86). Knowledge on cervical cancer and screening (OR = 4.01,95%CI:2.76,5.92), history of multiple sexual partners (OR = 5.01, 95%CI:2.61,9.61), women’s age (OR = 4.58, 95%CI:2.81,7.46), history of sexually transmitted disease (OR = 4.83,95%CI:3.02,7.73), Perceived susceptibility to cervical cancer (OR = 3.59, 95%CI:1.99,6.48), getting advice from health care providers (OR = 4.58, 95%CI:3.26, 6.43), women’s educational level (OR = 6.68,95%CI:4.61,9.68), women’s attitude towards cervical cancer and screening (OR = 3.42, 95%CI:2.88,4.06) were the determinant factors of cervical cancer screening uptake among age-eligible women in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

The pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening was remarkably low among age-eligible women in Ethiopia. Thus, to increase the uptake of cervical cancer screening among age-eligible women regularly, it is better to create awareness programs for early detection and treatment of cervical cancer, and educational interventions that teach the step-by-step practice of cervical screening to increase women’s attitude for screening. Additionally, it is better to inform every woman is susceptible to cervical cancer, especially after starting sexual intercourse, and screening remains fundamental in the fight against cervical cancer before becoming invasive. Moreover, counseling and improving the confidence of women by health care providers to undergo screening is recommended.
The absence of murine cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide impacts host responses enhancing Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium infection
Authors: Bescucci Danisa M. , Clarke Sandra T. , Brown Catherine L. J. , Boras Valerie F. , Montina Tony , Uwiera Richard R. E. , Inglis G. Douglas
Published: November 2020

Background

Cathelicidins are a class of antimicrobial peptide, and the murine cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (mCRAMP) has been demonstrated in vitro to impairSalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium proliferation. However, the impact of mCRAMP on host responses and the microbiota followingS.Typhimurium infection has not been determined. In this study mCRAMP−/−and mCRAMP+/+mice (± streptomycin) were orally inoculated withS. entericaserovar Typhimurium DT104 (SA +), and impacts on the host and enteric bacterial communities were temporally evaluated.

Results

Higher densities of the pathogen were observed in cecal digesta and associated with mucosa in SA+/mCRAMP−/−mice that were pretreated (ST+) and not pretreated (ST−) with streptomycin at 24 h post-inoculation (hpi). Both SA+/ST+/mCRAMP−/−and SA+/ST−/mCRAMP−/−mice were more susceptible to infection exhibiting greater histopathologic changes (e.g. epithelial injury, leukocyte infiltration, goblet cell loss) at 48 hpi. Correspondingly, immune responses in SA+/ST+/mCRAMP–/−and SA+/ST−/mCRAMP–/−mice were affected (e.g.Ifnγ, Kc, Inos, Il1β, RegIIIγ). Systemic dissemination of the pathogen was characterized by metabolomics, and the liver metabolome was affected to a greater degree in SA+/ST+/mCRAMP–/−and SA+/ST−/mCRAMP–/−mice (e.g. taurine, cadaverine). Treatment-specific changes to the structure of the enteric microbiota were associated with infection and mCRAMP deficiency, with a higher abundance ofEnterobacteriaceaeandVeillonellaceaeobserved in infected null mice. The microbiota of mice that were administered the antibiotic and infected withSalmonellawas dominated byProteobacteria.

Conclusion

The study findings showed that the absence of mCRAMP modulated both host responses and the enteric microbiota enhancing local and systemic infection bySalmonellaTyphimurium.
Bacillus subtilis Smc condenses chromosomes in a heterologous cell system, which is down-regulated by ScpAB
Authors: Knust Tobias , Graumann Peter L.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) proteins are key players in chromosome dynamics in all types of organisms. The so-called condensin subfamily is essential for chromosome condensation in eukaryotic cells, as is the bacterial SMC complex (called MukBEF in Escherichia coli). We expressed the Bacillus subtilis Smc protein and its two complex partners ScpA and ScpB in E. coli cells, and monitored effects on chromosome compaction by DNA staining of live cells using epifluorescence microscopy.

Data description

We show that expression of BsSmc leads to strong chromosome compaction, while expression of ScpAB does not show any effect. Chromosome compaction by Smc was also found for mutant versions lacking ATP binding or ability for head engagement, and was counteracted by concomitant expression of ScpAB. Our findings show that the SMC complex can act as autonomous condensation system in a heterologous bacterial host system, for which neither ATP binding nor ATP hydrolysis are required. Our investigation suggests that the negative effect on compaction activity of Smc exerted by ScpAB in vivo does not involve an effect on ATPase activity, but more likely a stabilization of the engagement of head domains, which in turn may affect ATPase activity.
Combined stimuli of cold, hypoxia, and dehydration status on body temperature in rats: a pilot study with practical implications for humans
Authors: Uno Tadashi , Hasegawa Tatsuya , Horiuchi Masahiro
Published: November 2020

Objective

As human thermoregulatory responses to maintain core body temperature (Tcore) under multiple stressors such as cold, hypoxia, and dehydration (e.g., exposure to high-altitude) are varied, the combined effects of cold, hypoxia, and dehydration status on Tcore in rats were investigated. The following environmental conditions were constructed: (1) thermoneutral (24 °C) or cold (10 °C), (2) normoxia (21% O2) or hypoxia (12% O2), and (3) euhydration or dehydration (48 h water deprivation), resulted in eight environmental conditions [2 ambient temperatures (Ta) × 2 oxygen levels × 2 hydration statuses)]. Each condition lasted for 24 h.

Results

Normoxic conditions irrespective of hypoxia or dehydration did not strongly decrease the area under the curve (AUC) in Tcore during the 24 period, whereas, hypoxic conditions caused greater decreases in the AUC in Tcore, which was accentuated with cold and dehydration (Ta × O2 × hydration, P = 0.040 by three-way ANOVA). In contrast, multiple stressors (Ta × O2 × hydration or Ta × O2 or O2 × hydration or Ta × hydration) did not affect locomotor activity counts (all P > 0.05), but a significant simple main effect for O2 and Ta was observed (P < 0.001). Heat loss index was not affected by all environmental conditions (all P > 0.05). In conclusion, decreases in Tcore were most affected by multiple environmental stressors such as cold, hypoxia, and dehydration.
Analysis of ADAM9 regulation and function in vestibular schwannoma primary cells
Authors: Nattmann Anja , Breun Maria , Monoranu Camelia M. , Matthies Cordula , Ernestus Ralf-Ingo , Löhr Mario , Hagemann Carsten
Published: November 2020

Objective

Recently, we described a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 9 (ADAM9) overexpression by Schwann cells of vestibular schwannoma (VS) and suggested that it might be a marker for VS tumor growth and invasiveness. This research note provides additional data utilizing a small cohort of VS primary cultures and tissue samples. We examined whether reconstitution of Merlin expression in VS cells regulates ADAM9 protein expression and performed lentiviral ADAM9 knock down to investigate possible effects on VS cells numbers. Moreover, the co-localization of ADAM9 and Integrins α6 and α2β1, respectively, was examined by immunofluorescence double staining.

Results

ADAM9 expression was not regulated by Merlin in VS. However, ADAM9 knock down led to 58% reduction in cell numbers in VS primary cell cultures (p < 0.0001). While ADAM9 and Integrin α2β1 were co-localized in only 22% (2 of 9) of VS, ADAM9 and Integrin α6 were co-localized in 91% (10 of 11) of VS. Therefore, we provide first observations on possible regulatory functions of ADAM9 expression in VS.
Pharmacophore modelling of vanillin derivatives, favipiravir, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, monolaurin and tetrodotoxin as MPro inhibitors of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)
Authors: Law Woon Yi , Asaruddin Mohd Razip , Bhawani Showkat Ahamd , Mohamad Samsur
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to use Ligand-based pharmacophore modelling approach for four established antiviral drugs, namely remdesivir, lopinavir, ritonavir and hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19 inhibitors as training sets. In this study Twenty vanillin derivatives together with monolaurin and tetrodotoxin were used as test sets to evaluate as potential SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors. The Structure-based pharmacophore modelling approach was also performed using 5RE6, 5REX and 5RFZ in order to analyse the binding site and ligand–protein complex interactions.

Results

The pharmacophore modelling mode of 5RE6 displayed two Hydrogen Bond Acceptors (HBA) and one Hydrophobic (HY) interaction. Besides, the pharmacophore model of 5REX showed two HBA and two HY interactions. Finally, the pharmacophore model of 5RFZ showed three HBA and one HY interaction. Based on ligand-based approach, 20 Schiff-based vanillin derivatives, showed strong MPro inhibition activity. This was due to their good alignment and common features to PDB-5RE6. Similarly, monolaurin and tetrodotoxin displayed some significant activity against SARS-CoV-2. From structure-based approach, vanillin derivatives (1) to (12) displayed some potent MPro inhibition against SARS-CoV-2. Favipiravir, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine also showed some significant MPro inhibition.
QoS-driven scheduling in the cloud
Authors: da Silva Giovanni Farias , Brasileiro Francisco , Lopes Raquel , Morais Fabio , Carvalho Marcus , Turull Daniel
Published: November 2020

Priority-based scheduling policies are commonly used to guarantee that requests submitted to the different service classes offered by cloud providers achieve the desired Quality of Service (QoS). However, the QoS delivered during resource contention periods may be unfair on certain requests. In particular, lower priority requests may have their resources preempted to accommodate resources associated with higher priority ones, even if the actual QoS delivered to the latter is above the desired level, while the former is underserved. Also, competing requests with the same priority may experience quite different QoS, since some of them may have their resources preempted, while others do not. In this paper we present a new scheduling policy that is driven by the QoS promised to individual requests. Benefits of using the QoS-driven policy are twofold: it maintains the QoS of each request as high as possible, considering their QoS targets and available resources; and it minimizes the variance of the QoS delivered to requests of the same class, promoting fairness. We used simulation experiments fed with traces from a production system to compare the QoS-driven policy with a state-of-the-practice priority-based one. In general, the QoS-driven policy delivers a better service than the priority-based one. Moreover, the equity of the QoS delivered to requests of the same class is much higher when the QoS-driven policy is used, particularly when not all requests get the promised QoS, which is the most important scenario. Finally, based on the current practice of large public cloud providers, our results show that penalties incurred by the priority-based scheduler in the scenarios studied can be, on average, as much as 193% higher than those incurred by the QoS-driven one.
Radiological manifestations of thoracic hydatid cysts: pulmonary and extrapulmonary findings
Authors: Durhan Gamze , Tan Aziz Anıl , Düzgün Selin Ardalı , Akkaya Selçuk , Arıyürek Orhan Macit
Published: November 2020

Hydatid cyst caused by the larval form of Echinococcus is a worldwide zoonosis. The lungs and liver are the most common sites involved. While the lung parenchyma is the most common site within the thorax, it may develop in any extrapulmonary region including the pleural cavity, fissures, mediastinum, heart, vascular structures, chest wall, and diaphragm. Imaging plays a pivotal role not only in the diagnosis of hydatid cyst, but also in the visualization of the extent of involvement and complications. The aim of this pictorial review was to comprehensively describe the imaging findings of thoracic hydatid cyst including pulmonary and very unusual extrapulmonary involvements. An outline is also given for the findings of complications and differential diagnosis of thoracic hydatid cyst.
Sapap3 deletion causes dynamic synaptic density abnormalities: a longitudinal [11C]UCB-J PET study in a model of obsessive–compulsive disorder-like behaviour
Authors: Glorie Dorien , Verhaeghe Jeroen , Miranda Alan , De Lombaerde Stef , Stroobants Sigrid , Staelens Steven
Published: November 2020

Background

Currently, the evidence on synaptic abnormalities in neuropsychiatric disorders—including obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD)—is emerging. The newly established positron emission tomography (PET) ligand ((R)-1-((3-((11)C-methyl-(11)C)pyridin-4-yl)methyl)-4-(3,4,5-trifluorophenyl)pyrrolidin-2-one) ([11C]UCB-J) provides the opportunity to visualize synaptic density changes in vivo, by targeting the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A). Here, we aim to evaluate such alterations in the brain of the SAP90/PSD-95-associated protein 3 (Sapap3) knockout (ko) mouse model, showing an abnormal corticostriatal neurotransmission resulting in OCD-like behaviour.

Methods

Longitudinal [11C]UCB-J µPET/CT scans were acquired in Sapap3 ko and wildtype (wt) control mice (n = 9/group) to study SV2A availability. Based on the Logan reference method, we calculated the volume of distribution (VT(IDIF)) for [11C]UCB-J. Both cross-sectional (wt vs. ko) and longitudinal (3 vs. 9 months) volume-of-interest-based statistical analysis and voxel-based statistical parametric mapping were performed. Both [11C]UCB-J ex vivo autoradiography and [3H]UCB-J in vitro autoradiography were used for the validation of the µPET data.

Results

At the age of 3 months, Sapap3 ko mice are already characterized by a significantly lower SV2A availability compared to wt littermates (i.a. cortex − 12.69%, p < 0.01; striatum − 14.12%, p < 0.001, thalamus − 13.11%, p < 0.001, and hippocampus − 12.99%, p < 0.001). Healthy ageing in control mice was associated with a diffuse and significant (p < 0.001) decline throughout the brain, whereas in Sapap3 ko mice this decline was more confined to the corticostriatal level. A strong linear relationship (p < 0.0001) was established between the outcome parameters of [11C]UCB-J µPET and [11C]UCB-J ex vivo autoradiography, while such relationship was absent for [3H]UCB-J in vitro autoradiography.

Conclusions

[11C]UCB-J PET is a potential marker for synaptic density deficits in the Sapap3 ko mouse model for OCD, parallel to disease progression. Our data suggest that [11C]UCB-J ex vivo autoradiography is a suitable proxy for [11C]UCB-J PET data in mice.
LHH1, a novel antimicrobial peptide with anti-cancer cell activity identified from Lactobacillus casei HZ1
Authors: He Jun-Fang , Jin Du-Xin , Luo Xue-Gang , Zhang Tong-Cun
Published: November 2020

Antimicrobial peptides have been attracting increasing attention for their multiple beneficial effects. In present study, a novel AMP with a molecular weight of 1875.5 Da, was identified from the genome of Lactobacillus casei HZ1. The peptide, which was named as LHH1 was comprised of 16 amino acid residues, and its α-helix content was 95.34% when dissolved in 30 mM SDS. LHH1 exhibited a broad range of antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive bacteria and fungus. It could effectively inhibit Staphylococcus aureus with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 3.5 μM and showed a low hemolytic activity. The scanning electron microscope, confocal laser scanning microscope and flow cytometry results showed that LHH1 exerted its antibacterial activity by damaging the cell membrane of Staphylococcus aureus. Meanwhile, LHH1 also exhibited anti-cancer cell activities against several cancer cells via breaking the cell membrane of MGC803, HCT116 and C666-1 cancer cells.
Prospecting the antimicrobial and antibiofilm potential of Chaetomium globosum an endophytic fungus from Moringa oleifera
Authors: Kaur Navdeep , Arora Daljit Singh
Published: November 2020

The current study prospects the antimicrobial potential of an endophytic fungus Chaetomium globosum which showed a wide spectrum antimicrobial activity against the tested pathogenic microorganisms. This is apparently the first report where Chaetomium globosum as an endophyte from Moringa oleifera showed antimicrobial potential and is optimized for physiochemical parameters to enhance the antimicrobial metabolites production. In the classical optimization yeast peptone dextrose medium, inoculum size of two discs, incubation period of 6 days, production temperature of 25 ºC and pH 7 was best supportive for optimal growth and antimicrobial activity whereas maltose and ammonium nitrate were the best carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The statistical optimization resulted in up to 1.33 fold increase in antimicrobial activity. Chloroform was found to be the best extractant. The chloroformic extract showed minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 0.05 to 5 mg/ml and its microbicidal nature was established by viable cell count studies. The efficacy of the extract was also established in terms of post antibiotic effect which ranged from 2 to 20 h. The chloroformic extract exhibited the good antibiofilm potential and was also found to be biosafe. The clinical relevance of the study was justified as it showed good antimicrobial efficacy against some resistant clinical isolates, too.
Unleashing the potential of QoS-aware pricing within licensed shared access framework
Authors: Douros Vaggelis G. , Mähönen Petri
Published: November 2020

We present a techno-economic analysis of a cellular market that operates within the licensed shared access (LSA) framework, consisting of a mobile network operator (MNO) that leases spectrum to a number of programme making and special events (PMSE) users. The MNO offers two quality-of-service (QoS) classes (high and low), differentiating the price based on the QoS class. The key question that we address is whether and to which extent the MNO has incentive to adopt this form of QoS-aware pricing. After getting some promising insights from the analysis of two case studies, we propose a general methodology. The first step is to model the parameters that are controlled by each PMSE user: (i) the way to choose between the two QoS classes and (ii) the available budget per QoS class. The second step is to compute the maximum revenue of the MNO. Our analysis reveals that the MNO can always tune the prices so as to maximise its revenue for the scenario where all users belong to the high QoS class. This is a consistent result throughout our study that holds for any considered set of user-controlled parameters and of technical parameters. We conclude that the adoption of QoS-aware pricing in an LSA market generates a tussle between the MNO and the regulator. The MNO has incentive to support fewer users but with high QoS and charge them more, which is not aligned with the regulator’s goal for social welfare maximisation.
Effect of grassland degradation on soil quality and soil biotic community in a semi-arid temperate steppe
Authors: Han Xu , Li Yuhui , Du Xiaofang , Li Yingbin , Wang Zhengwen , Jiang Siwei , Li Qi
Published: November 2020

Grasslands provide a number of ecosystem services for human society. Degradation of grasslands results in the loss of biodiversity and leads to the deterioration of ecosystem functions. In order to accurately assess the influence of grassland degradation on belowground ecosystems, we conducted experiments on a temperate steppe with different levels of degradation and investigated the influence of degradation on soil quality and soil biotic communities. Our results showed that grassland degradation significantly decreased soil quality, with lower values of soil quality index (SQI) observed in the degraded grassland than the meadow steppe and the grassland from the forest-steppe ecotone. Changes in the SQI along the grassland degradation gradient were positively correlated with soil carbon stock and the aboveground biomass, and negatively correlated with the root shoot ratio. Nematode trophic diversity and the ratio of fungal to bacterial PLFA were lower in the degraded grassland than the grassland from the forest-steppe ecotone. The dissimilarities in soil microbial and nematode community composition increased with the changes in soil quality index. Our results indicate that soil quality index based on the minimum data sets could effectively assess the influence of grassland degradation on soil biodiversity and ecosystem function. In order to effectively restore degraded grasslands, the key contributors to the soil quality, such as soil carbon, should be taken on priority basis for revitalizing the soil biodiversity and ecosystem function.
Effect of land use, season, and soil depth on soil microbial biomass carbon of Eastern Himalayas
Authors: Lepcha Nima Tshering , Devi N. Bijayalaxmi
Published: November 2020

Background

Soil microbial biomass, an important nutrient pool for ecosystem nutrient cycling is affected by several factors including climate, edaphic, and land-use change. Himalayan soils are young and unstable and prone to erosion and degradation due to its topography, bioclimatic conditions and anthropogenic activities such as frequent land-use change. Through this study, we tried to assess how soil parameters and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) of Eastern Himalayan soils originated from gneissic rock change with land-use type, soil depth and season. Chloroform fumigation extraction method was employed to determine MBC from different land-use types.

Results

Soil physical and chemical properties varied significantly with season, land-use and soil depth (p < 0.001). The maximum values of soil properties were observed in the rainy season followed by summer and winter season in all the study sites. Annual mean microbial biomass carbon was highest in the forest (455.03 μg g− 1) followed by cardamom agroforestry (392.86 μg g− 1) and paddy cropland (317.47 μg g− 1). Microbial biomass carbon exhibited strong significant seasonal difference (p < 0.001) in all the land-use types with a peak value in the rainy season (forest-592.78 μg g− 1; agroforestry- 499.84 μg g− 1 and cropland- 365.21 μg g− 1) and lowest in the winter season (forest − 338.46 μg g− 1; agroforestry – 320.28 μg g− 1 and cropland − 265.70 μg g− 1). The value of microbial biomass carbon decreased significantly with soil depth (p < 0.001) but showed an insignificant increase in the second year which corresponds to a change in rainfall pattern. Besides, land-use type, season and soil depth, soil properties also strongly influenced microbial biomass carbon (p < 0.001). Microbial quotient was highest in the agroforestry system (2.16%) and least in the subtropical forest (1.91%).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that land-use, soil depth and season significantly influenced soil properties and microbial biomass carbon. The physical and chemical properties of soil and MBC exhibit strong seasonality while the type of land-use influenced the microbial activity and biomass of different soil layers in the study sites. Higher soil organic carbon content in cardamom agroforestry and forest in the present study indicates that restoration of the litter layer through retrogressive land-use change accelerates microbial C immobilization which further helps in the maintenance of soil fertility and soil organic carbon sequestration.
Are non-market benefits of soybean production significant? An extended economic analysis of smallholder soybean farming in Upper West region of northern Ghana
Authors: Asodina Francis Akabo , Adams Faizal , Nimoh Fred , Weyori Emmanuel A. , Wongnaa Camillus Abawiera , Bakang John Edudes-Andvi
Published: November 2020

Background

Traditional cost–benefit analysis of soybean production tends to largely focus on financial benefits to farmers, and less so on non-market co-benefits in sustaining smallholder farming systems. Relying solely on the standard financial analysis undermines the actual benefit of soybean production, which often results in ineffectual policy designs. An economic analysis that incorporates key non-pecuniary co-benefits of soybean production provide vital insight that contributes to improving productivity and overall economic well-being of farmers. Cross-sectional data were collected from 271 farmers to estimate the overall economic benefit of soybean that captures both market and non-market attributes in three major producing districts (Sissala-West, Wa-East, and Dafiama-Busie-Issa (DBI)) of Ghana.

Results

When non-market co-benefits were omitted, soybean production was not profitable (−Gh¢103.10/ha or −US$22.91) in DBI while Sissala-West and Wa-East had modest profit margins. However, the financial analysis changed dramatically when an average non-market value of Gh¢345.69 (US$76.82) was incorporated in the analysis. The soybean system was, therefore, financially viable for all the districts when the non-market attributes of the crop were considered.

Conclusions

The findings demonstrate the importance of the non-pecuniary benefits of soybean in smallholder farming systems for policy decision-making. For instance, farmers’ motivation for soybean production is closely linked to those ancillary benefits like the biological nitrogen fixed in the soil for cultivation of other crops. Similarly, crop administrators and policy makers’ support for conservation agriculture and green environment is tied to these non-market co-benefits.
Advances of target therapy on NOTCH1 signaling pathway in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Zheng Ruyue , Li Menglin , Wang Shujuan , Liu Yanfang
Published: November 2020

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is one of the hematological malignancies. With the applications of chemotherapy regimens and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the cure rate of T-ALL has been significantly improved. However, patients with relapsed and refractory T-ALL still lack effective treatment options. Gene mutations play an important role in T-ALL. The NOTCH1 gene mutation is the important one among these genetic mutations. Since the mutation of NOTCH1 gene is considered as a driving oncogene in T-ALL, targeting the NOTCH1 signaling patheway may be an effective option to overcome relapsed and refractory T-ALL. This review mainly summarizes the recent research advances of targeting on NOTCH1 signaling pathway in T-ALL.
Molecular insights into pathogenesis and targeted therapy of peripheral T cell lymphoma
Authors: Xie Caiqin , Li Xian , Zeng Hui , Qian Wenbin
Published: November 2020

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) are biologically and clinically heterogeneous diseases almost all of which are associated with poor outcomes. Recent advances in gene expression profiling that helps in diagnosis and prognostication of different subtypes and next-generation sequencing have given new insights into the pathogenesis and molecular pathway of PTCL. Here, we focus on a broader description of mutational insights into the common subtypes of PTCL including PTCL not other specified type, angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and extra-nodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type, and also present an overview of new targeted therapies currently in various stages of clinical trials.
The significant role of redox system in myeloid leukemia: from pathogenesis to therapeutic applications
Authors: Kaweme Natasha Mupeta , Zhou Shu , Changwe Geoffrey Joseph , Zhou Fuling
Published: November 2020

Background

Excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the presence of a defective antioxidant system can induce cellular damage and disrupt normal physiological functions. Several studies have revealed the unfavorable role of ROS in promoting the growth, proliferation, migration, and survival of leukemia cells. In this review study, we summarize the mechanisms of ROS production and its role in leukemogenesis, counteractive effects of antioxidants, and implicate the current ROS-dependent anticancer therapies in acute myeloid leukemia.

Body

The dysregulation of the redox system is known to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of leukemia. Leukemia cells generate high levels of ROS, which further increases the levels through extra pathways, including mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic mutation, leukemic oncogene activation, increased nicotinamide adenine phosphate hydrogen (NADPH), and cytochrome P450 activities. Aforementioned pathways once activated have shown to promote genomic instability, induce drug resistance to leukemia medical therapy, disease relapse and reduce survival period. The current standard of treatment with chemotherapy employs the pro-oxidant approach to induce apoptosis and promote tumor regression. However, this approach retains several deleterious effects on the subject resulting in degradation of the quality of life. Nevertheless, the addition of an antioxidant as an adjuvant drug to chemotherapy alleviates treatment-related toxicity, increases chemotherapeutic efficacy, and improves survival rates of a patient.

Conclusion

Acute myeloid leukemia remains a daunting challenge to clinicians. The desire to achieve the maximum benefit of chemotherapy but also improve patient outcomes is investigated. ROS generated through several pathways promotes leukemogenesis, drug resistance, and disease relapse. Chemotherapy, the mainstay of treatment, further upregulates ROS levels. Therefore, the addition of an antioxidant to leukemia medical therapy alleviates toxicity and improves patient outcomes.
Biomarkers for cancer-associated fibroblasts
Authors: Han Chencheng , Liu Tongyan , Yin Rong
Published: November 2020

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the key component of tumor stromal. High heterogeneity of CAFs reflects in their origin, phenotype and function. Biological function which can be suggested by biomarkers of distinct CAF subgroups may be different, even opposite, just like water and fire. Identifying CAF subpopulations expressing different biomarkers and reconciling the relationship of the “water and fire” among distinct CAF subsets may be a breakthrough in tumor therapy. Herein, we briefly summarize the biomarkers commonly used or newly identified for distinct CAFs in terms of their features and potential clinical benefits.
A collaborative effort of China in combating COVID-19
Authors: Bangura Mohamed S. , Gonzalez Maria J. , Ali Nasra M. , Ren Ran , Qiao Youlin
Published: November 2020

A novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was firstly identified in Wuhan by the end of 2019. China has implemented a series of preventive measures to deter COVID-19 spread and its consequences since the beginning of the epidemic. In China, the expansion of COVID-19 has been slowed down significantly through the effort of all contributors, including governments, nongovernments, and civil society. All collaborators have been actively involved in combating the epidemic, using their respective strengths to play their roles. China has mitigated the number of cases due to the mobilization of the whole society and collaborators joining collective efforts and actions in solidarity to tackle and conquer the virus. To date, China has continued to implement actions to control any resurgence of new cases of COVID-19 and keep its population safe. The people’s united effort against the virus has enhanced a great insight into China, and it might serve as a model to the global community in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic  in terms of coordination, solidarity, decisiveness, and leadership.
Predictors of perioperative morbidity and mortality in adult living donor liver transplantations: report of results of a tertiary hospital
Authors: Hizarci Burcu , Karaaslan Pelin , Ertugrul Gokhan , Yilmaz Mesut , Demiraran Yavuz , Oz Huseyin
Published: November 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors effective in perioperative morbidity and mortality in 161 living donor liver transplantations (LDLT).

Results

The most common indication for living donor transplantation was cryptogenic cirrhosis. The most common complication was biliary problems in 62.16% cases. Sepsis was the most common cause of in 52%. Patients in whom sepsis was observed, significantly prolonged stay under mechanical ventilation and prolonged ICU stay were detected. In patient group in whom mortality was observed, higher amounts of erythrocytes, fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and platelets were transfused, and patients remained longer under mechanical ventilation treatment, and in the ICU.

Conclusion

Perioperative morbidity and mortality was found to be significantly related with higher amounts of erythrocytes and FFP transfusions and longer operative and warm ischemia times. Sepsis was found to be the most common cause of mortality.
Comparative study between continuous adductor canal block and intravenous morphine for postoperative analgesia in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Ali Hithem Mohammed Gamil Mohammed , Nour Eldin Bassel Mohammed Essam , Ahmed Heba Abd Elazim Labib , Gobran Ramy Mounir Wahba , Heiba Diaa Eldin Mahmoud
Published: November 2020

Background

Postoperative pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is known to range from moderate (30% of patients) to severe (60% of patients). Inadequate management for postoperative pain may induce various immobility-related complications, muscle weakness, and chronic pain. Therefore, post-TKA analgesia is crucial, not only for patients’ satisfaction, but for improving surgical outcomes and reducing complications. The present study aims to compare the effect of ultrasound-guided adductor canal block ACB (saphenous nerve block) versus incremental dose of intravenous morphine after total knee arthroplasty surgery.

Results

The results of this study revealed no difference between group A and group B as regards postoperative quadriceps muscle strength; maximal knee flexion, total distance ambulated, and postoperative vital data (heart rate per minute and respiratory rate per minute). However, group A showed better postoperative pain control, lower doses of intravenous morphine consumption and lower incidence of nausea and vomiting.

Conclusion

Continuous adductor canal block (saphenous nerve block) is superior to intravenous morphine in decreasing postoperative pain and decreasing total morphine consumption and adverse effects as nausea and vomiting, but both are equivalent in preserving quadriceps muscle power.
Study of homogenization on media milling time in preparation of irbesartan nanosuspension and optimization using design of experiments (DoE)
Authors: Borkhataria Chetan , Patel Dhavalkumar , Bhagora Swati , Patel Nilesh , Patel Kalpesh , Manek Ravi
Published: November 2020

Background

The present investigation aimed at preparing nanosuspension of irbesartan to improve its dissolution. Dissolution enhancement of irbesartan can improve the oral bioavailability. Here, it was also studied how media milling time can be reduced by subjecting irbesartan to prior homogenization and then media milling.

Results

First, homogenization of irbesartan was carried out in the presence of poloxamer 407 at 6000 rpm for 2 h. Final nanosuspension preparation was done by media milling with zirconium dioxide beads. Here, the amount of poloxamer 407 and zirconium dioxide beads was studied as statistical independent variables. Response surface plot analysis and desirability function were applied to the selected optimized batch. The prepared batches were subjected to evaluation for zeta potential value, mean particle size, PDI, dissolution study, and stability study. Target particle size was less than 500 nm, and in vitro dissolution in 10 min was more than 80%. Zeta potential value was ~ 27 mV for optimized nanosuspension. Desirability of 0.941 was achieved. Checkpoint batch was prepared and evaluated to confirm the validity of mathematical model. Accelerated stability study was performed on the optimized batch at 40 ± 2 °C/75 ± 5% RH for 6 months.

Conclusion

The results confirmed the stability of formulation at accelerated stability conditions. Using presuspension prepared by homogenization, media milling time primarily reduced from 24–28 h to 18 h. Future perspective is to study other factors in combination method in discrete.
Incidence and predictors of thyroid gland invasion by laryngeal carcinoma: a 7-year experience review
Authors: Eltelety Ahmad M. , Nassar Ahmed A. , El Batawi Ahmed M. , Ibrahim Sherif G.
Published: November 2020

Background

Study the incidence of thyroid gland invasion by laryngeal carcinoma and the risk factors that may predispose to this condition. Aiding surgeons develop an evidence-based plan for the management of the thyroid gland during total laryngectomy.

Results

Retrospective analysis of the available medical records for patients who had total laryngectomy together with total thyroidectomy or hemithyroidectomy in the same procedure. Associated pathological features were also investigated. Patients who had laryngeal carcinoma managed by total laryngectomy with total thyroidectomy or hemithyroidectomy between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2017.

Three hundred seventy-seven records were retrieved. The incidence of thyroid gland invasion by the laryngeal carcinoma was 24 (6.4%). Three patients showed microscopic extension (3/356; 0.8%). Six patients had malignant pathology other than squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Two over six had invasion of the thyroid gland; OR (95% CI): 7.9 (1.4-45.4). Patients who had primary tumor stage of T4a were 244. 23/244 had thyroid gland invasion, 13.7 (1.8-102.9). Poorly differentiated tumors had significant incidence of thyroid gland invasion (4/15), 6.2 (1.8-21.3). Patients who had subglottic extension by the primary tumor were 177 with 20 patients having thyroid gland invasion (20/177), 6.2 (2.1-18.6).

Conclusion

Several risk factors are associated with higher incidence of invasion of the thyroid gland by laryngeal carcinoma. Identification of these factors can help surgeons develop a surgical strategy for the management of the thyroid gland during total laryngectomy.
Hospice Use Among Patients With Cancer: Trends, Barriers, and Future Directions
Authors: Patel Mihir N. , Nicolla Jonathan M. , Friedman Fred A.P. , Ritz Michala R. , Kamal Arif H.
Published: November 2020

Patients with advanced cancer and their families frequently encounter clinical and logistical challenges related to end-of-life care. Hospice provides interdisciplinary and holistic care to meet patients’ biomedical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs in the last phases of life. Despite increasing general acceptance and use among patients with cancer, hospice remains underused. Underuse stems from ongoing misconceptions regarding hospice and its purpose, coupled with the rapid development of novel anticancer treatments, such as immunotherapies and targeted therapies, that have changed the landscape of possibilities. Furthermore, rapid evolutions in how end-of-life care is structured and reimbursed for will affect how oncology patients will intersect with hospice care. In this review, we explore the current and future challenges to greater integration of hospice care in the care of patients with advanced cancer and propose five recommendations as part of the path forward.
Characteristics of Adrenocortical Carcinoma Associated With Lynch Syndrome
Authors: Domènech Marta , Grau Elia , Solanes Ares , Izquierdo Angel , del Valle Jesús , Carrato Cristina , Pineda Marta , Dueñas Nuria , Pujol Magda , Lázaro Conxi , Capellà Gabriel , Brunet Joan , Navarro Matilde
Published: November 2020

Context

Lynch syndrome (LS) is the most common inherited colorectal and endometrial cancer syndrome, caused by germline mutations in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes. It is also characterized by an increased risk of other tumors with lower prevalence, such as adrenal cortical carcinoma (ACC), an endocrine tumor with an incidence of <2 cases/million individuals/year. Most ACC developed during childhood are associated with hereditary syndromes. In adults, this association is not as well established as in children. Previous studies showed a 3.2% prevalence of LS among patients with ACC.

Evidence Acquisition

The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of ACC in a Spanish LS cohort and their molecular and histological characteristics. This retrospective study includes 634 patients from 220 LS families registered between 1999 and 2018.

Evidence Synthesis

During the follow-up period, 3 patients were diagnosed with ACC (0.47%); all were carriers of a MSH2 germline mutation. The 3 ACC patients presented loss of expression of MSH2 and MSH6 proteins. One tumor analysis showed loss of heterozygosity of the MSH2 wildtype allele. Our findings support previous data that considered ACC as a LS spectrum tumor.

Conclusion

MMR protein immunohistochemistry screening could be an efficient strategy to detect LS in patients with ACC.