bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mineral and Phytochemical Composition of Cleome Gynandra Methanolic Extract
Authors: Wakhisi Charles Wanjala , Michael Gicheru Muita , Mwangi Eric
Published: April 2020

The study was done to evaluate the mineral and phytochemical composition of the methanolic extract of Cleome gynandra (spider plant). The plant is used as a traditional vegetable in some communities in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. The plant has also been reported to have some medicinal effect due to presence of phytochemicals but its pharmacological and phytochemical profile has not been fully established. Collection and authentication of the plant was done followed by extraction using methanol as a solvent. The phytochemical investigation was done using both chemical analysis and chromatography method by use of a Gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GCMS) system as per standard protocol. Cleome gynandra was found to contain some mineral compounds of nutritional importance and phytochemicals with potential medicinal importance. The phytochemicals analyzed include saponins, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, terpanoids and polyphenols. These different phytochemicals can be further studied and their potential medicinal importance analyzed. The study concluded that Cleome gynandra contains phytochemicals with potentially important medicinal value. The plant (Cleome gynandra) can also be used as an important nutritional source of some essential nutrients like Vitamin C and beta carotene. It can also be a good source of some mineral elements like iron, selenium, cobalt, copper, zinc and manganese. This can be important for families in rural areas and for the low-income households in both rural and urban areas as a source of nutrients.
Assessment of Different Seedling Production Techniques of Euterpe edulis
Authors: Regnier Leonardo de Lima Pereira , Salatino Maria Luiza Faria
Published: April 2020

Euterpe edulis is an endangered species with high importance ecologically and economically. Seedling production seems to be one of the most important alternatives to population recovery. Besides that, the knowledge of seedling production methods' influence over germination is very restricted. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of parent populations, germination conditions, and the substrate to commercial seedling production of E. edulis. Nine thousand seven hundred and thirteen seeds were distributed between the heated water and control, greenhouse and open-field treatments. The parent population presented high differences between most of the germination indexes. Influencing the germination rate, mean germination time and germination speed, but not affecting synchrony and uncertainty indexes. Heated water treatment did not affect any of the studied indexes, presenting a close pattern of germination over time, indicating it is an appropriate method for seedling production. Greenhouse and open-field treatment presented variations at the same indexes affected in the parent population analysis. The most profitable method for E. edulis seed germination was the greenhouse production method, which provided the best indexes results.
Physics for Surgeons - Part 4: Energy Devices in Surgery
Authors: Qaiser Darakhshan , Ranjan Piyush , Kataria Kamal , Dhar Anita , Srivastava Anurag
Published: April 2020

Modern surgery has advanced astoundingly in the last century owing to the advent of number of energy devices in the operation room. Surgeon in the past were only using electric current –monopolar diathermy to burn and couterize the tissue, the present day surgeons are equiped with a number of more advanced energy devices e.g. LASER, ultrasonic vibrating shears, radiofrequency, shockwaves, argon beam coagulator and advanced bipolar electric energy with hybrid systems and light energy of different wavelengths. In the present paper, we have explained the physical principles involved in the commonly used energy devices in the operation theatre.
Assessment of Aeolian Desertification Near Vedavathi River Cannel in Central Part of Andhra Pradesh: Remote Sensing Approach
Authors: Badapalli Pradeep Kumar , K. Raghu Babu , M. Rajasekhar , M. Ramachandra
Published: April 2020

Desertification is one of the foremost environmental and social-economic problems facing the world. Thus, the observation and early detection of desertification is primary objective for scientific and policy organizations, with geospatial techniques as similar as Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) being a candidate choice for the enlargement of monitoring systems. The present study purposes to assess the desertification caused by Aeolian sand deposits near Vedavathi River in a semi-arid region of Anantapur district, aided by temporal data of satellite imageries of past 28 years (1990 to 2018), were collected and processed. The extent of desertified land for the years 1990, 2000, 2010 and, 2018 is assessed, respectively about 28.22 Km2, 33.86 Km2, 46.30 Km2 and, 58.62 Km2. For the past 28 years, the Aeolian sand desertification is increased into the alarming rates with the land extent of 30.4 Km2.
Miscarriage Rates Due to Endometriosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Calis Pinar , Isik Gizem , Duygulu Dilara , Bozkurt Nuray , Karcaaltincaba Deniz
Published: April 2020

OBJECTIVE: To find the differences of miscarriage rates between pregnant patients with and without endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN: The retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Gazi University between January-2015 and December-2018. Patients were divided into two groups; endometriosis and non-endometriosis according to their pathology report and ultrasound examination. In both groups, miscarriage rates and in vitro fertilization pregnancy ratios were analyzed. Miscarriage rates in in vitro fertilization pregnancies and in endometriosis group who had and didn't have surgery also analyzed.RESULTS: Sixty-two patients in the study group and 65 patients in the control group were included. There was no significant difference in miscarriage rates between endometriosis and non-endometriosis group (20/62 (32%) and 13/65 (20%), respectively, p=0.124). There was a statistically significant difference in miscarriage rates between in vitro fertilization and non-in vitro fertilization group (p=0.004). Apart from that, in in vitro fertilization group, the miscarriage rate was higher in the endometrioma subgroup than non-endometrioma (p=0.008).CONCLUSION: There was an only significant difference in miscarriage rate in the in vitro fertilization group between endometrioma and non-endometrioma patients. In the future, there should be more studies to define the actual pathophysiology for miscarriage with endometriosis.
ITS1-gene 5.8S rRNA-ITS2 and trnL-trnF sequence variability during the divergence of Elymus L. species of the flora of Siberia and Russian Far East
Authors: Dobryakova Kseniya , Nosov Nikolay
Published: April 2020

The phylogenetic relationship of Elymus species were analyzed by molecular phylogenetic methods. Comparative analysis of the sequences ITS1-5.8S rRNA gene-ITS2 of the nuclear genome species of genus Elymus and kinship group showed that the species of the genus Elymus have 3 haplotypes. Нaplotype A was found in Elymus species (sections: Turczaninovia, Goulardia и Elymus) and Elytrigia geniculata; haplotype B was found in Elymus species (sections: Turczaninovia, Goulardia); haplotype C (sections: Goulardia и Clinelymopsis) and E. repens. Comparative analysis of the sequences trnL-trnF of the chloroplast genome of genus Elymus related species showed that the species of the genus Elymus form strongly supported clade. The phylogenetic trees were constructed using Bayesian method. Refs 22. Figs 2. Tables 3.
Classification of plants in the south drying bottom of the Aral Sea
Authors: Sherimbetov Sanjar , Pratov Uktam , Mukhamedov Rustam
Published: April 2020

This work presents the results of floristic investigations of the dry seafloor of Aral Sea in its south part. For the first time 216 species of the higher plants have been shown to be growing in the south drying seafloor of Aral Sea. Analysis of genera and species according to the family shows that the large 7 families: Chenopodiaceae, Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Polygonaceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, Boraginaceae unite make up 158 species. The largest family is Chenopodiaceae includes 24 genera and 59 species. Other 6 large families compose 58 genera and 99 species; 20 families have only one genus and one species. Refs 43. Figs 2.
Physiological mechanisms of plasticity of central and peripheral links of neuromotor system as a result of adaptation to increased activity of skeletal muscles
Authors: Lanskaya Elena , Lanskaya Olga , Andriyanova Ekaterina
Published: April 2020

Sport activities associated with basketball and field athletics run at various distances contribute significantly to the excitability of the cervical spinal motoneuron pools, motor axons, and muscle fibers which is proved to be less typical of powerlifting. At the same time the research indicated an increased level of reflex excitability of α-motoneurons of muscles of the hip and shin, a significant lowering of the threshold of irritation of the correspondent afferent and efferent nerve fibers, and an increase in the quantity and synchronization of activity of motor elements of the lower limb proximal and distal muscles in basketball players and runners as compared with powerlifters. Refs 27. Tables 4.
Typical specimens of genus Artemisia L. s.l. (Asteraceae) kept in the herbarium of St. Petersburg State University (LECB)
Authors: Korobkov Alexander , Byalt Vyacheslav , Bubyreva Valentina
Published: April 2020

This article continues a series of publications devoted to the historical collections and collections of type herbarium specimens stored in the Herbarium of Department of Botany, St. Petersburg State University (SPbSU) (LECB). As a result of critical study of the genus Artemisia L. s. l. (Asteraceae) in the Herbarium LECB 134 type specimens for 93 taxa of the genera Absinthium Mill. and Artemisia L. (43 species, 1 subspecies, 48 varieties and 1 form) are identified. In the collection the types (syntype and isotypes) for taxa described by C. Willdenow, M. von Bieberstein, C. Ledebour, W. Besser, A. Bunge, I. M. Krasheninnikov and some others from Siberia, Central Asia, Iran, Caucasus, Crimea and even the Hawaiian Islands in Oceania are presented. Refs 22.
Structural and functional diversity and quantitative parameters of two-year shoot systems of pregenerative individuals of Quercus robur L. (Fagaceae) in different light conditions in the central part of European Russia
Authors: Stamenov Miroslav
Published: April 2020

Based on topological characteristics and functional role in crown, diversity of the two-year shoot systems in pregenerative individuals of Q. robur L. growing in communities with different light level in southern part of Moscow region and reserve “Kaluzhskiye Zaseki” in Kaluga region have been typified. In full light conditions uniform branching, mesotonic and acrotonic two-year shoot systems with a great number of lateral twigs mainly contribute to the crown structure. In shadow conditions crown is formed basically from non-branching systems and two-year shoot systems with a small number of casually located lateral twigs. The number of nodes of the elementary shoots of different two-year system types is more constant than their internodes’ length. Branching types of two-year shoot systems have longer internodes than nonbranching ones do. In branching types of two-year shoot systems internodes become longer with the improvement of light conditions. Refs 26. Figs 3. Tables 3.
Dynamics of physiologically active cells of pico- and nanophytoplankton in the coastal waters of Black Sea
Authors: Solomonova Ekaterina
Published: April 2020

The dynamics of the abundance and viability index (VI) of pico- and nanophytoplankton in the coastal waters of Black Sea near Sevastopol were investigated by regular monthly monitoring using flow cytometry and fluorescein diacetate vital dye (FDA), as a marker of intracellular enzyme activity. Directed seasonal changes in the fraction of physiologically active cells in the study groups of algae in coastal waters was not identified. It is noted that, in the warm season and during vegetative growth of algae in the composition and pico nano-phytoplankton predominate living cells, the percentage of which varies from 70 to 100 %. Low values of the VI (30 %) picophytoplankton were obtained at individual stations in September, October and December, possibly due to the presence of this kind of cell size group Synechococcus, which are very sensitive to fluctuations of environmental factors. Refs 28. Figs 7.
Lobelia dortmanna (Lobeliaceae) in the Vologda Region
Authors: Philippov Dmitriy , Bobroff Yuriy , Czhobadze Andrey , Levashov Andrey
Published: April 2020

The article presents an analysis of chorologic, biomorphologic, phytocoenotic and ecological features of rare relict aquatic macrophyte species Lobelia dortmanna L. in the Vologda Region. For the first time on the territory of the Vologda Region Lobelia specimen was collected in 1884 by V. S. Sulima-Samuyllo. Southeastern border of areal of water lobelia passes through the Vologda Region where it was found in Babaevskiy (10 lakes), Belozerskiy (3) and Vytegorskiy (4) districts. Lobelia dortmanna is included in Red Data Book of the Vologda Region in the status 2/EN (Endangered). The major part of the records (11 out of 17 lakes) are out of protected areas. Lobelia dortmanna is under protection in 5 protected areas: Botanical nature sanctuaries “Chyornoe ozero” and “Kodozero” (Babaevskiy district), protected nature complex “Onezhskiy”, landscape reserve “Yansorskiy”, hydrological reserve “Shimozerskiy” (Vytegorskiy district). Refs 69. Figs 2.
Characteristics of pre-nesting behavior of Phylloscopus warblers in the northern part of distribution area
Authors: Lapshin Nikolay
Published: April 2020

On the basis of field studies conducted in 1973–2000 it was found for four species of Phylloscopus warblers breeding in the taiga zone of NW Russia that their northern marginal populations, more remote from wintering grounds, have considerably shorter period of staying in the breeding region as compared with southern populations (because of later arrival and earlier departure), shorter interval between male and female arrival and lower population densities. It determines the regional features of their behavior during pre-nesting period: reduction of time of its first phase (before female’s arrival) and more “peaceful” delimiting of nesting territories. The “companionship” stage (according to D. May) is absent as the warblers from northern populations arrive in the nesting sites being physiologically readier for breeding. Although socially monogamous pairs dominate, the cases of facultative polygamy occur, especially in Willow Warbler. The molecular-genetic analysis has shown that in this species the frequency of polygyny (5–17 %) is much lower than the frequency of polyandry (68,4 %), i.e. in majority of Willow Warbler’s nests the bastard nestlings (15,3 % of total nestling number) are found. This is obviously conditioned by the excess of adult males, which is quite typical for all Phylloscopus species. Refs 31.
Modern distribution, new breeding and moulting places of the Mute Swan (Cygnus olor Gmelin) in the Leningrad region in 2005–2015
Authors: Kouzov Sergey , Loseva Anna
Published: April 2020

The article presents new data on nesting and moulting places of Mute Swan Cygnus olor Gmelin in the Leningrad region, observed in 2005–2015, describes the current status of its breeding and moulting places in the region, discovered in previous decades. An analysis of the spatial and landscape distribution of this species and the nature of its changes in recent years is given. The analysis shows that a significant increase in the number of breeding sites and moulting of the Mute Swan in the Leningrad region has not led to a marked increase in the local population. New places are populated primarily by solitary nesting pairs and small groups of moulting individuals, unlike some of the previously populated centers of mass reproduction and moult on Kurgalsky Peninsula and Seskar archipelago, where initially there was a high density of breeding and moulting birds. It may be characterised as a very low territorial expansion of the nesting area, but mainly as the colonization of empty loci in its old borders. Such type of colonization along with strong inter-seasonal local population dynamics depending on weather conditions, show the presence of climatical limit of the distribution of the this species in the region. Refs 58. Figs 6. Tables 1.
Rainfall regionalization and variability of extreme precipitation using artificial neural networks: a case study from western central Morocco
Authors: El Alaoui El Fels Abdelhafid , Saidi Mohamed El Mehdi , Bouiji Assma , Benrhanem Mounia
Published: April 2020

Here, we investigate the precipitation regionalization and the spatial variability of rainfall extremes, using a 47-year long station-based dataset from western central Morocco, a region with marked topographic and climatic variations. The principal component analysis revealed three homogeneous rainfall regimes, consistent with topographic features: the coastal area receives heavy rainfall during autumns and winters, whereas the inner lowlands, in the middle of the study area, are characterized by an overall rainfall deficit regardless of their high water demand for irrigation, and the highest rainfall amounts take place in the mid-mountain area, including the summer seasons. Furthermore, the frequency analysis of daily rainfall extremes revealed high ten-year precipitation amounts in the coastal region (about 88 mm) and exceptional daily precipitation for longer return periods (182 mm for a 100-year period). Using artificial neural networks, the spatialization of these extreme precipitation events shows that they increase from the plain to the Atlas mountains and especially from the plain to the Atlantic Ocean. The spatial distribution of extreme precipitation highlights the areas where stormwater management needs to be improved, such as efficient stormwater drainage, and where floods are more likely to take place in the future.
Optimized microplastic analysis based on size fractionation, density separation and μ-FTIR
Authors: Konechnaya Olga , Lüchtrath Sabine , Dsikowitzky Larissa , Schwarzbauer Jan
Published: April 2020

Microplastic particles have been recognized as global hazardous pollutants in the last few decades pointing to the importance of analyzing and monitoring microplastics, especially in soils and sediments. This study focused on a multi-step approach for microplastic analysis combining grain size fractionation, density separation and identification by μ-FTIR-spectroscopy. Eight widely used polymers (polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polystyrol (PS), polyethylenterephthalate (PET), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyurethane (PU) and polyamide (PA)) were fractionated into four groups of grain sizes (0.1–5 mm). Thereafter, sea sand was spiked with these particles to test a ZnCl2-based density separation for the polymer types and the various grain sizes. The obtained recovery rates were close to 100% showing that ZnCl2-based density separation is suitable to separate the polymer particles from a sandy matrix. This approach was extended on three further environmental matrices and recovery rates for two of them (sandy-silty and fine-grained sediment) also provided reliable values (94–106%). Lastly, the developed multi-step approach was verified by analyzing an environmental sample (sediment from river Tiranë, Albania) characterized by smaller grain size and moderate organic matter content. Identification of two polymer types in different grain size classes verified the suitability of the developed approach for microplastic analyses on particulate matter such as soils and sediments.
Assessment of aeration control strategies for biofilm-based partial nitritation/anammox systems
Authors: Schraa O. , Rosenthal A. , Wade M. J. , Rieger L. , Miletić I. , Alex J.
Published: April 2020

The objective of this work was to compare the nitrogen removal in mainstream, biofilm-based partial nitritation anammox (PN/A) systems employing (1) constant setpoint dissolved oxygen (DO) control, (2) intermittent aeration, and (3) ammonia-based aeration control (ABAC). A detailed water resource recovery facility (WRRF) model was used to study the dynamic performance of these aeration control strategies with respect to treatment performance and energy consumption. The results show that constant setpoint DO control cannot meet typical regulatory limits for total ammonia nitrogen (NHx-N). Intermittent aeration shows improvement but requires optimisation of the aeration cycle. ABAC shows the best treatment performance with the advantages of continuous operation and over 20% lower average energy consumption as compared to intermittent aeration.
Deciphering of The Effect of Chemotherapeutic Agents on Human Glutathione S-Transferase Enzyme and MCF-7 Cell Line
Authors: Aybek Havva , Temel Yusuf , Ahmed Barzan Mirza , Ağca Can Ali , Çiftci Mehmet
Published: April 2020

Background:

Cancer is the disease that causes the most death after cardiovascular diseases
all over the world these days. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women
and ranks the second among cancer-related deaths after lung cancer. Chemotherapeutics act by
killing cancer cells, preventing their spread and slowing their growth. Recent studies focus on the
effects of chemotherapeutics on cancer cells and new chemotherapy approaches that targeting enzymes
that catalyze important metabolic reactions in the cell.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of chemotherapeutic agents, Tamoxifen
and 5-FU, on MCF-7 cell line and human erythrocyte GST, an important enzyme of intracellular
antioxidant metabolism.

Methods:

In this study, it was investigated that the effect of chemotherapeutic agents, Tamoxifen
and 5-FU, on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line and performed ROS analyzes. In addition, it was purified
glutathione S-transferase (GST), one of the important enzymes of intracellular antioxidant
mechanism, from human erythrocytes by using ammonium sulfate precipitation and glutathione
agarose affinity chromatography, and investigated in vitro effects of chemotherapeutic agents, 5 -
FU and Tamoxifen, on the activity of this enzyme for the first time.

Results:

it was determined that Tamoxifen and 5-FU inhibited cellular viability and 5-FU increased
intracellular levels of ROS, whereas Tamoxifen reduced intracellular levels of ROS. In addition,
human erythrocyte GST enzyme with 16.2 EU/mg specific activity was purified 265.97-fold
with a yield of 35% using ammonium sulfate precipitation and glutathione agarose affinity chromatography.
The purity of the enzyme was checked by the SDS-PAGE method. In vitro effects of chemotherapeutics,
5-FU and Tamoxifen, on GST activity purified from human erythrocytes were investigated.
The results showed that 5-FU increased the activity of GST in the concentration range
of 77 to 1155 μM and that Tamoxifen increased the activity of GST in the concentration range of
0.54 to 2.70 μM.

Conclusion:

In this study, the effects of tamoxifen and 5-FU chemotherapeutic agents on both
MCF-7 cell line and human GST enzyme were examined together for the first time. Our study
showed that chemotherapeutic agents (5-FU and Tamoxifen) inhibited cellular viability and Tamoxifen
reduced intracellular levels of ROS whereas 5-FU increased intracellular levels of ROS. In addition,
5-FU and Tamoxifen were found to increase the activity of GST enzyme purified from the
human erythrocyte.
The Oncogenic Functions of Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 mRNA-Binding Protein 3 in Human Carcinomas
Authors: Wang Peng-Fei , Wang Xiaoyu , Liu Min , Zeng Zheng , Lin Caiji , Xu Wenwen , Ma Wenqing , Wang Jiali , Xiang Qian , Johnston Randal N. , Liu Huidi , Liu Shu-Lin
Published: April 2020

IGF2BP3 (also known as IMP3, KOC), a member of the insulin-like growth factor mRNA-binding
protein family (IMPs), has been a research target in recent studies of promoting embryo development and exacerbating
cancer. IGF2BP3 is ubiquitously expressed in early embryogenesis stages but limited in postembryonic
stages, which is important in many physiological aspects such as stem cell renewal, morphological development
and metabolism. A large number of studies show that IGF2BP3 interacts with many kinds of non-coding RNAs
and proteins to promote cancer cell proliferation and metastasis and inhibit cancer cell apoptosis. As IGF2BP3 is
highly expressed in advanced cancers and associated with poor overall survival rates of patients, it may be a potential
molecular marker in cancer diagnosis for the detection of cancerous tissues and an indicator of cancer
stages. Therefore, anti-IGF2BP3 drugs or monoclonal antibodies are expected as new therapeutic methods in
cancer treatment. This review summarizes recent findings among IGF2BP3, RNA and proteins in cancer processes,
with a focus on its cancer-promoting mechanisms and potential application as a new biomarker for cancer
diagnosis and treatment.
AOX1 and XDH Enzymes Genotyping and its Effect on Clinical Response to Azathioprine in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Among Jordanian Population
Authors: Mahasneh Sereen , Sharab Ahmad , Al Shhab Mohammad , Rashid Mohammad , Zihlif Malek
Published: April 2020

Background and Objective:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a set of chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal
disorders, which include ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) that affects many patients
worldwide with a peak incidence in early adult life. The immunosuppressant drug Azathioprine (AZA) represents
one of the most useful drugs in the management of IBD. It is metabolized by many enzymes like AOX1, and XDH
enzymes, the variation in the metabolism of AZA may contribute to inter-individual variation in response to this
treatment. This study aims to find out if there is an association between certain AOX1 and XDH polymorphisms and
AZA response in Jordanian IBD patients.

Methods:

One hundred IBD patients aged between (17-72) years and taking AZA were enrolled and genotyped for
AOX13404G, XDH1936C and XDH2107C polymorphisms using DNA Sequencing (Sanger) method.

Results and Conclusion:

This study revealed that 16% of our patients were non-responders to AZA; they needed an
alternative therapy (biological agent) or steroids along with AZA. There was no statistically significant association
(p-value>0.05) between the AOX1 3404G, XDH 1936C and XDH 2107C polymorphisms and the response to AZA
among Jordanian IBD patients. Finally, the study showed an association between the age of the patient and the response
to AZA (p-value=0.013).
Cholesterol: A Prelate in Cell Nucleus and its Serendipity
Authors: Saxena Nimisha , Chandra Nimai Chand
Published: April 2020

Cholesterol is a chameleon bio-molecule in cellular multiplex. It acts as a
prelate in almost every cellular compartment with its site specific characteristics viz.
regulation of structural veracity and scaffold fluidity of bio-membranes, insulation of
electrical transmission in nerves, controlling of genes by making steroid endocrines,
acting as precursors of metabolic regulators and many more with its emerging prophecy
in the cell nucleus to drive new cell formation. Besides the crucial legacy in cellular
functionality, cholesterol is ostracized as a member of LDL particle, which has been
proved responsible to clog blood vessels. LDL particles get deposited in the blood
vessels because of their poor clearance owing to the non-functioning LDL receptor on
the vessel wall and surrounding tissues. Blocking of blood vessel promotes heart attack
and stroke. On the other hand, cholesterol has been targeted as pro-cancerous
molecule. At this phase again cholesterol is biphasic. Although cholesterol is essential to
construct nuclear membrane and its lipid-rafts; in cancer tumour cells, cholesterol is not
under the control of intracellular feedback regulation and gets accumulated within cell
nucleus by crossing nuclear membrane and promoting cell proliferation. In precancerous
stage, the immune cells also die because of the lack of requisite concentration of
intracellular and intranuclear cholesterol pool. The existence of cholesterol within the cell
nucleus has been found in the nuclear membrane, epichromosomal location and
nucleoplasm. The existence of cholesterol in the microdomain of nuclear raft has been
reported to be linked with gene transcription, cell proliferation and apoptosis. Hydrolysis
of cholesterol esters in chromosomal domain is linked with new cell generation.
Apparently, Cholesterol is now a prelate in cell nucleus too ------ A serendipity in cellular
haven.
Healthy Gut, Healthy Brain: The Gut Microbiome in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Chandra Sreyashi , Alam Md. Tanjim , Dey Jhilik , Sasidharan Baby C. Pulikkaparambil , Ray Upasana , Srivastava Amit K. , Gandhi Sonu , Tripathi Prem P.
Published: April 2020

Background:

The central nervous system (CNS) known to regulate the physiological conditions
of human body, also itself gets dynamically regulated by both the physiological as well as pathological
conditions of the body. These conditions get changed quite often, and often involve changes introduced
into the gut microbiota which, as studies are revealing, directly modulate the CNS via a crosstalk.
This cross-talk between the gut microbiota and CNS, i.e., the gut-brain axis (GBA), plays a major
role in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s
disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS) and Huntington’s
disease (HD).

Objective:

We aim to discuss how gut microbiota, through GBA, regulate neurodegenerative disorders
such as PD, AD, ALS, MS and HD.

Methods:

In this review, we have discussed the present understanding of the role played by the gut microbiota
in neurodegenerative disorders and emphasized the probable therapeutic approaches being explored
to treat them.

Results:

In the first part, we introduce the GBA and its relevance, followed by the changes occurring in
the GBA during neurodegenerative disorders and then further discuss its role in the pathogenesis of
these diseases. Finally, we discuss its applications in possible therapeutics of these diseases and the current
research improvements being made to better investigate this interaction.

Conclusion:

We concluded that alterations in the intestinal microbiota modulate various activities that
could potentially lead to CNS disorders through interactions via the GBA.
Denouement of Chemicals on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Is Green Chemistry the Answer
Authors: Fayaz Faizana , Pottoo Faheem H. , Shafi Sadat , Wani Mushtaq A. , Wakode Sharad , Sharma Anjali
Published: April 2020

Medicinal Chemistry has played a critical role in evolving new products, resources and
processes which inexorably correspond to our high standards of living. Unfortunately, this has also
caused deterioration of human health and threats to the global environment, even deaths when highly
exposed to certain chemicals, whether due to improper use, mishandling or disposal. There are
chemicals, which apart from being carcinogens, endocrine disruptors or neurotoxins, are also responsible
for climate change and ozone depletion. Certain chemicals are known to cause neurotoxicity
and are having tendencies to damage the central and peripheral nervous system or brain by damaging
neurons or cells which are responsible for transmitting and processing of signals. This has
raised serious concerns for the use and handling of such chemicals and has given growth to a relatively
new emerging field known as Green Chemistry that strives to achieve sustainability at the
molecular level and has an ability to harness chemicals to meet environmental and economic goals.
It has been reported in the literature that apart from family history in the aetiology of Amyotrophic
lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also termed as “Lou Gehrig’s disease”, a neurological disorder, environmental
factors, heavy metals, particularly selenium, lead, mercury, cadmium, formaldehyde, pesticides
and certain herbicides are known to cause ALS. ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease
affects the motor cortex, brain stem and spinal cord, causing muscular weakness, spasticity, and
hyperreflexia. In this article we are aiming to discuss and summarize the various corroborations and
findings supporting the undesirable role of chemical substance/herbicides/pesticides in ALS aetiology
and its mitigation by adopting green chemistry.
Assessment of the Efficacy of Withania somnifera Root Extract in Patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Randomized Double-blind Placebo- Controlled Trial
Authors: Fuladi Sara , Emami Seyed A. , Mohammadpour Amir H. , Karimani Asieh , Manteghi Ali A. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: April 2020

Background:

Anxiety disorders are the most universal psychiatric problems in the general
population. Due to their chronic nature, these diseases are managed with a multi-drug regimen lasting
for a long period of time. Medication discontinuation leads to 25% and 80% recurrence in the first
month and the first year, respectively. Despite several treatment approaches, there is no specific and
optimal method for patient management. Therefore, it is necessary to find some new therapeutic approaches
with fewer side effects. Withania somnifera is a plant with GABAergic property responsible
for its anxiolytic effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of W. somnifera root extract
as an alternative therapy to reduce standard Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) symptoms.

Methods:

Forty patients who met the inclusion criteria (with a confirmed diagnosis of GAD as
stated in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision
(DSM-IV-TR) took part in this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial and were randomly
selected for participation in the treatment group (W. somnifera extract, 1g/day; n = 22) or the
placebo group (n = 18). All patients were under treatment with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
(SSRIs) and were prescribed one capsule of the extract or placebo per day for six weeks. The
Hamilton anxiety rating scale (HAM-A) was used to assess the severity of GAD symptoms at baseline
as well as the second and sixth weeks of the trial.

Results:

Comparison of the HAM-A scores during the course of the trial revealed a significant amelioration
ofHAM-A score in the treatment group versus placebo (14 and 8 units reduction, respectively
(P < 0.05)). Moreover, there was a significant difference in the reduction of GAD score between
the second (P =0.04) and sixth week (P =0.02) in the treatment group. The extract was safe
and no adverse effect was observed during the trial.

Conclusion:

W. somnifera extract offers some potential advantages as a safe and effective adjunctive
therapy to SSRIs in GAD. The clinical trial protocol has been registered under the Iranian Registry
of Clinical Trials (IRCT20180615040105N1).
Comprehensive Analysis of Features and Annotations of Pathway Databases
Authors: Ghulam Ali , Lei Xiujuan , Guo Min , Bian Chen
Published: April 2020

This study focused on describing the necessary information related to pathway
mechanisms, characteristics, and databases feature annotations. Various difficulties related to data
storage and retrieval in biological pathway databases are discussed. These focus on different
techniques for retrieving annotations, features, and methods of digital pathway databases for
biological pathway analysis. Furthermore, many pathway databases annotations, features, and
search databases were also examined (which are reasonable for the integration into microarray
examination). The investigation was performed on the databases, which contain human pathways to
understand the hidden components of cells applied in this process. Three different domain-specific
pathways were selected for this study and the information of pathway databases was extracted
from the existing literature. The research compared different pathways and performed molecular
level relations. Moreover, the associations between pathway networks were also evaluated. The
study involved datasets for gene pathway matrices and pathway scoring techniques. Additionally,
different pathways techniques, such as metabolomics and biochemical pathways, translation,
control, and signaling pathways and signal transduction, were also considered. We also analyzed
the list of gene sets and constructed a gene pathway network. This article will serve as a useful
manual for storing a repository of specific biological data and disease pathways.
Analysis of Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Variable Number Tandem Repeat Variant in Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis
Authors: Tekcan Akin , Yigit Serbulent , Nursal Ayse F. , Tumer Mehmet K. , Yerliyurt Kaan , Kuruca Nilufer
Published: April 2020

Background/Aims:

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is one of the common oral inflammatory
diseases. As immunological and genetic factors have been held responsible for the pathogenesis
of RAS, the objective of this study was to determine whether the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist
(IL-1Ra) gene variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) variant is a risk factor for the development
of RAS in Turkish patients and to define its contribution to the increased risk.

Methods:

The IL-1Ra VNTR variant was evaluated in 169 RAS patients and 171 healthy controls by
the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method.

Results:

No statistically significant difference was found in the genotype distributions and allele frequencies
of IL-1Ra VNTR variant between RAS patients and healthy controls.

Conclusion:

Lack of association between IL-1Ra VNTR variant and RAS could indicate that IL-1Ra
has no significant role in the pathophysiology of RAS. However, it still appears to be very worthwhile
to continue to search for cytokine gene variants in order to predict the development of such disease.
A Case for Participatory Disease Surveillance of the COVID-19 Pandemic in India
Authors: Garg Suneela , Bhatnagar Nidhi , Gangadharan Navya
Published: April 2020

The coronavirus disease pandemic requires the deployment of novel surveillance strategies to curtail further spread of the disease in the community. Participatory disease surveillance mechanisms have already been adopted in countries for the current pandemic. India, with scarce resources, good telecom support, and a not-so-robust heath care system, makes a strong case for introducing participatory disease surveillance for the prevention and control of the pandemic. India has just launched Aarogya Setu, which is a first-of-its-kind participatory disease surveillance initiative in India. This will supplement the existing Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme in India by finding missing cases and having faster aggregation, analysis of data, and prompt response measures. This newly created platform empowers communities with the right information and guidance, enabling protection from infection and reducing unnecessary contact with the overburdened health care system. However, caution needs to be exercised to address participation from digitally isolated populations, ensure the reliability of data, and consider ethical concerns such as maintaining individual privacy.
The Parenting Education Needs of Women Experiencing Incarceration in South Australia: Proposal for a Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lovell Belinda , Steen Mary , Esterman Adrian , Brown Angela
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The mother-child relationship is extremely important, and for mothers experiencing incarceration, this relationship has unique challenges. There is limited evidence currently available to identify the type and content of parenting education that would best suit women who are incarcerated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to design and evaluate a parent education program for women experiencing incarceration in South Australia. The program must meet the specific needs of incarcerated women and considers the cultural needs of Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islanders and migrant women. Hereafter Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples will be referred to as Aboriginal; the authors acknowledge the diversity within Aboriginal cultures.

METHODS

This study will utilize a mixed methods approach, including six phases framed by a community-based theoretical model. This methodology provides a collaborative approach between the researcher and the community to empower the women experiencing incarceration, allowing their parenting education needs to be addressed.

RESULTS

A scoping review was undertaken to inform this study protocol. This paper describes and discusses the protocol for this mixed methods study. Recruiting commenced in December 2019, results will be published in 2020, and the project will be completed by August 2022. This project has been supported by a Research Training Scholarship from the Australian Government.

CONCLUSIONS

The scoping review highlighted a lack of rigorous evidence to determine the most appropriate parenting education program to suit women experiencing incarceration specifically, and there was little consideration for the cultural needs of women. It also became clear that when quantitative and qualitative data are utilized, the women’s voices can assist in the determination of what works, what will not work, and what can be improved. The data collected and analyzed during this study, as well as the current evidence, will assist in the development of a specific parenting education program to meet the needs of women experiencing incarceration in South Australia and will be implemented and evaluated as part of the study.

CLINICALTRIAL

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/18992
Serious Gaming Technology in Upper Extremity Rehabilitation: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Koutsiana Elisavet , Ladakis Ioannis , Fotopoulos Dimitris , Chytas Achilleas , Kilintzis Vassilis , Chouvarda Ioanna
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Serious gaming has increasingly gained attention as a potential new component in clinical practice. Specifically, its use in the rehabilitation of motor dysfunctions has been intensively researched during the past three decades.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this scoping review was to evaluate the current role of serious games in upper extremity rehabilitation, and to identify common methods and practice as well as technology patterns. This objective was approached via the exploration of published research efforts over time.

METHODS

The literature search, using the PubMed and Scopus databases, included articles published from 1999 to 2019. The eligibility criteria were (i) any form of game-based arm rehabilitation; (ii) published in a peer-reviewed journal or conference; (iii) introduce a game in an electronic format; (iv) published in English; and (v) not a review, meta-analysis, or conference abstract. The search strategy identified 169 relevant articles.

RESULTS

The results indicated an increasing research trend in the domain of serious gaming deployment in upper extremity rehabilitation. Furthermore, differences regarding the number of publications and the game approach were noted between studies that used commercial devices in their rehabilitation systems and those that proposed a custom-made robotic arm, glove, or other devices for the connection and interaction with the game platform. A particularly relevant observation concerns the evaluation of the introduced systems. Although one-third of the studies evaluated their implementations with patients, in most cases, there is the need for a larger number of participants and better testing of the rehabilitation scheme efficiency over time. Most of the studies that included some form of assessment for the introduced rehabilitation game mentioned user experience as one of the factors considered for evaluation of the system. Besides user experience assessment, the most common evaluation method involving patients was the use of standard medical tests. Finally, a few studies attempted to extract game features to introduce quantitative measurements for the evaluation of patient improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

This paper presents an overview of a significant research topic and highlights the current state of the field. Despite extensive attempts for the development of gamified rehabilitation systems, there is no definite answer as to whether a serious game is a favorable means for upper extremity functionality improvement; however, this certainly constitutes a supplementary means for motivation. The development of a unified performance quantification framework and more extensive experiments could generate richer evidence and contribute toward this direction.
Harnessing Phones to Target Pediatric Populations with Socially Complex Needs: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Stiles-Shields Colleen , Potthoff Lauren M , Bounds Dawn T , Burns Maureen T S , Draxler Janel M , Otwell Caitlin H , Wolodiger Emily D , Westrick Jennifer , Karnik Niranjan S
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Mobile and smartphones are owned and accessed by many, making them a potentially optimal delivery mechanism to reach pediatric patients with socially complex needs (ie, pediatric populations who face overlapping adversities).

OBJECTIVE

To address the specialized needs of youth from such groups, this review synthesized the literature exploring the use of phone-based delivery to access pediatric populations with socially complex needs, targeting mental and behavioral health outcomes. The purpose of this synthesis was to provide recommendations for future research developing phone-based interventions for youth with socially complex needs.

METHODS

A trained medical librarian conducted the search strategy in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane CENTRAL Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Google Scholar. Studies targeting youth with socially complex needs were defined by recruiting samples that were primarily from traditionally underserved populations (ie, sex/gender minorities, racial/ethnic background, low socioeconomic status, rural/remote location, and sexual orientation). A systematic narrative framework was utilized and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed (registration number CRD42020141212).

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria, with 3 depicting the use of phones to complete assessment and tracking goals and 11 to intervene on mental and behavioral health targets.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature indicates important directions for future research, including (1) involving diverse and representative teens (ie, the likely users of the interventions), stakeholders, and clinical/research staff; (2) integrating evidence-based therapies with minority-focused theories; (3) harnessing mobile device capabilities; and (4) considering and assessing for potential costs in phones as delivery mechanisms.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO CRD42020141212; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=141212