bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Janus-type dual emission of a Cyclometalated Iron(III) complex
Authors: Bauer Matthias , Steube Jakob , Päpcke Ayla , Bokareva Olga , Reuter Thomas , Demeshko Serhiy , Schoch Roland , Hohloch Stephan , Meyer Franc , Heinze Katja , Kühn Oliver , Lochbrunner Stefan
Published: September 2020

Photoactive compounds are essential for photocatalytic and luminescent applications, such as photoredox catalysis or light emitting diodes. However, the substitution of noble metals, which are almost exclusively used, by base metals remains a major challenge on the way to a more sustainable world.1 Iron is a dream candidate for this ambitious aim.2 But compared to noble metal complexes that show long-lived metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) states, realization of emissive and photoactive iron complexes is demanding, due to the fast deactivation of charge transfer states into non-emissive inactive states. No MLCT emission has been observed for monometallic iron complexes before. Consequently, dual emission could also not yet be realized with iron complexes, as it is a very rare property even of noble metal compounds. Here we report the FeIII complex [Fe(ImP)2][PF6] (HImP = 1,1’-(1,3-phenylene)bis(3-methyl-1-imidazol-2-ylidene)), showing Janus-type dual emission by combining LMCT (ligand-to-metal charge transfer) with MLCT luminescence. The respective excited states are characterized by a record lifetime of τMLCT = 4.2 ns, and a moderate τLMCT = 0.2 ns. Only two emissive FeIII compounds are known so far and they show LMCT luminescence only.3,4 The unique properties of the presented complex are caused by the specific ligand design combining four N-heterocyclic carbenes with two cyclometalating groups, using the σ-donor strength of six carbon atoms and the acceptor capabilities of the central phenyl rings. Spectroscopically, doublet manifolds could be identified in the deactivation process, while (TD)DFT analysis revealed the presence of quartets as well. With three key advancements of realizing the first iron complex showing dual luminescence, a MLCT luminescence and a world record MLCT lifetime, the results constitute a basis for future application of iron complexes as white light emitters and new photocatalytic reactions making use of the Janus-type properties of the developed complex.
Effects of Temperature and Humidity on COVID-19 Transmission in California, US: A Time-Series Study
Authors: Fang Lanlan , Wang Dingjian , Pan Guixia
Published: September 2020

Background: Previous researches inferred that high temperatures and high humidity might weaken COVID-19 transmission. However, with the warming weather coming, the COVID-19 pandemic is still intensifying. Methods: This study aims to evaluate the associations between daily temperature, relative humidity, and COVID-19 cases using the Distributed Lag Non-linear Model (DLNM) from Jan 27th to July 15th, 2020, in California, US.Results: There was a statistically significant difference between COVID-19 and temperature from 6 °C to 9 °C, relative humidity from 80% to 98%. It increased the risk of 95.4% at 6 °C (RR:1.954; CI: 1.032-3.701). It increased the risk of 70.3% when the humidity was 98% (RR: 1.703, CI: 1.049-2.765). At low temperature group, it increased the risk of 46.3% (RR = 1.463, 95%CI: 1.054-2.030) on lag 0-4 days. At high humidity group, it increased the risk of 42.3% (RR = 1.423, 95%CI: 1.070-1.892) on lag 0-6 days.Conclusions: We found that low temperature and high humidity were the risky factors of COVID-19 transmission, and higher temperature and lower humidity had no effect on the transmission of COVID-19, which indicated that it might not slow down due to weather factors in summer in the Mediterranean climate.
Microbial Degradation of Pyridine by Co-culture of Two Newly Isolated Strains, Arthrobacter sp. Strain PDC-1 and Rhodococcus sp. Strain HPD-2
Authors: Hu Chunhui , Zhao Shuxue , Guo Lizhong , Yu Hao , Chen Xi
Published: September 2020

Pyridine is one of the most widespread heterocyclic contaminants. Microbial degradation of pyridine seems quite promising for its safety and efficiency. A bacterial consortium, which could use pyridine as the sole source of carbon, nitrogen, was obtained from the petroleum-contaminated soil from Liao River estuarine wetland. Two pyridine degrading strains, designated as PCD-1 and HPD-2, were isolated from the bacterial consortium. PCD-1 was identified as an Arthrobacter , and HPD-2 was identified as the Rhodococcus genus. The effects of pH, temperature, and pyridine concentration were investigated, and the optimum growth conditions for two strains were similar at pH 7.0 and 30°C. The co-culture of the two strains, CoPD, has better degradation efficiency compared with the individual strain. Haldane's inhibitory growth kinetics equation could be fitted to the growth of co-culture CoPD well for the entire concentration range. The kinetic constants obtained were μ max = 0.141 h -1 , K s = 37.9 mg/L, and K i = 3830 mg/L. Co-culture CoPD was able to remove more than 98% pyridine with an initial pyridine concentration of 5,000 mg/L within 120 h. Strain PCD-1 and HPD-2 have a novel pyridine degradation pathway different from the reported pathways. Major intermediates of pyridine degradation by two strains, including 2,5-pyrroldione, maleic semialdehyde, furanone, and butyrolactone, were identified using LC-MS analysis. CoPD is a promising tool for the treatment of wastewater containing pyridine, and this study contributes to the knowledge of the pyridine biodegradation by bacterial consortium.
Correlation Network Analyses Based on Metagenomics and Multi-type Metabolomic Data Identified Biomarkers of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Dong Chaoran , He Zilong , Zhu Qianhui , Liu Jianxun , Gao Feng , Li Kexin , Sun Shanshan , Liu Qifeng , Wang Yinghong , Tang Yida , Hu Songnian , Zhu Haibo
Published: September 2020

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a complex, multifactorial disease and the underlying pathogenesis is unclear. It is essential to improve our understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of CAD for developing effective methods of early diagnosis and treatment.Results: We recruited 190 participants including normal coronary artery (n = 49), stable coronary artery disease (n = 93) and acute myocardial infarction patients (n = 48). We combined metagenomics (16S rRNA sequencing and gut microbiome whole-genome sequencing) and multi-type metabolomics (serum, faeces and urine) analyses to determine the correlations among metabolites, the microbiota and clinical indexes to identify biomarkers of CAD. Compared with the faecal metabolites, serum and urine metabolites exhibited strong correlation with clinical indexes. Comparing the three types of metabolome, we discovered that the faecal and urine metabolome was more suitable than the serum metabolome for correlation analysis with the microbiota. Furthermore, we found that the serum and urine metabolome was more suitable than the faecal metabolome for correlation analysis with the clinical indexes. We constructed, for the first time, the relationship networks among the microbiota, metabolites and pathways. Through the relationship network analysis, we identified some important differential metabolites and delineated how these metabolites are related to the differentially abundant microbes.Conclusions: In our research, we used metagenome and multi-type metabolome profiling based on hundreds of samples to figure out the correlations among metabolites, microbiota and clinical indexes. In addition, we firstly constructed the relationship networks of microbiota, metabolites and pathways. We believe our findings can help the researchers to further understand the pathogenesis of CAD.
Estimation of The LDL Subclasses in Ischemic Stroke as A Risk Factor in A Chinese Population
Authors: Duan Ruisheng , Xue Wenjun , Wang Kunpeng , Yin Nan , Hao Hongyu , Chu Hongshan , Wang Lijun , Diao Le , Meng Peng
Published: September 2020

PURPOSE: To clarify the role of LDL subclasses in the occurrence of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and develop a risk prediction model based on these characteristics to identify high-risk people.METHODS: Five hundred and sixty-six patients with AIS and 197 non-AIS controls were included in this study. Serum lipids and other baseline characteristics including fasting blood glucose (GLU), serum creatinine (Scr), and blood pressure were investigated in relation to occurrence of AIS. The LDL subfractions were classified and measured with the Lipoprint System by a polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis technique.RESULTS: Levels of LDL-3, LDL-4 and LDL-5 subclasses were significantly higher in the AIS group compared to the non-AIS group and lower level of LDL-1 was prevalent in the AIS patients. Consistently, Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated that sd‐LDL levels, especially LDL-3 and LDL-4 levels, were significantly positively correlated with AIS. Furthermore, there is a significant positive correlation between sd-LDL levels and serum lipids including TC, LDL‐C, and TG. Increased LDL-3 and LDL-4 as well as decreased LDL-1 and LDL-2 were correlated to the occurrence of AIS, even in the people with normal LDL-C levels. A new prediction model including 12 variables can accurately predict the AIS risk in Chinese patients (AUC=0.82±0.04).CONCLUSIONS: Levels of LDL subclasses should be considered in addition to serum LDL-C in assessment and management of AIS. A new prediction model based on clinical variables including LDL subtractions can help clinicians identify high‐risk patients for better prevention.
Lung Ultrasound Score: A Potential Prediction Tool In Covid-19
Authors: de Alencar Julio Cesar Garcia , Marchini Julio Flavio Meirelles , Marino Lucas Oliveira , Ribeiro Sabrina Correa da Costa , Bueno Cauê Gasparotto , Cunha Victor Paro da , Neto Felippe Lazar , Valente Fernando Salvetti , Rahhal Hassan , Pereira Juliana Batista Rodrigues , Padrão Eduardo Messias Hirano , Neto Rodrigo Antonio Brandão , Souza Heraldo Possolo , Team COVID USP Team COVID USP
Published: September 2020

1. Background:During the COVID-19 pandemic, adequate management of available resources may be key to overcoming the excess of seriously ill patients and saving lives. Creating tools to assess disease severity is one of the most important aspects for reducing the burden on emergency departments. Lung ultrasound has high accuracy for diagnosis of pulmonary diseases; however, there are no prospective studies demonstrating that lung ultrasound can predict outcomes in COVID-19. We hypothesized that Lung Ultrasound Score (LUSS) at hospital admission would be able to predict the outcomes of patients with COVID-19.2. Methods:Prospective cohort study conducted from 14 March through 6 May 2020 in the Emergency Department (ED) of an urban, academic, level I trauma center. This 2,200-bed hospital has been designated exclusive for COVID-19 patients for the duration of the pandemic. Patients aged 18 years and older and admitted to the ED with confirmed COVID-19 were considered eligible. Emergency physicians performed lung ultrasounds and calculated LUSS, which was tested for correlation with outcomes.3. Results: Primary endpoint was death from any cause. Secondary endpoints were ICU admission and endotracheal intubation for respiratory failure. Among 180 patients with confirmed COVID-19 who were enrolled (mean age, 60 years; 105 male), the average LUSS was 18.7 ± 6.8. LUSS correlated with findings on chest CT and was able to predict the estimated extent of parenchymal involvement (mean LUSS with < 50% involvement on chest CT, 15±6.7 vs. 21±6.0 with >50% involvement, p<0.001), death (AUC 0.71, OR 1.13, 95%CI 1.07 to 1.21; p < 0.001), endotracheal intubation (AUC 0.75, OR 1.17, 95%CI 1.09 to 1.26; p < 0.001), and ICU admission (AUC: 0.71, OR 1.14, 95%CI 1.07 to 1.21; p < 0.001). 4. Conclusion:LUSS was a good predictor of death, ICU admission, and endotracheal intubation in COVID-19 patients. 5. Trial RegistrationThis protocol was approved by the local Ethics Committee number 3.990.817 (CAAE: 30417520.0.0000.0068).
OCT4 Suppresses Metastasis in Breast Cancer Cells Through Activation of STAT3 Signaling
Authors: Jin Xiangshu , Liu Yafang , Qu Huinan , Qi Da , Wang Xinqi , Lu Yan , Dong Yuan , Liang Yingying , Jin Qiu , Quan Chengshi
Published: September 2020

Background: Metastatic breast cancer is the major cause of death in breast cancer patients. Activation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induces migration and invasion of breast cancer cells (BCCs). OCT4 (POU5F1) is a key transcription factor for reprograming and plays an important role in self-renewal. Recent studies recovered OCT4 may correlate with cancer progression. However, it is no sufficient proofs to verify how OCT4 plays in metastasis of breast cancer. In this present study, we show the role of OCT4 in the migration and invasion of BCCs in vitro and metastasis in vivo.Methods: PCR, Western Blot and Immunofluorescence staining were performed to determine to OCT4 expression in BCCs. Wound-healing assay and invasion assay were utilized to analyze the mobility of BCCs. Tumor metastasis was assessed with nude mice by subcutaneously injection. IHC assay was used to evaluate phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (p-STAT3) expression in breast cancer tissues and normal breast tissues. To study whether OCT4 regulate EMT through STAT3 signal, we used shRNA to knockdown STAT3 gene expression in BCCs.Results: OCT4 changed cell morphology of BCCs, decreased cell adhesion, and inhibited migration, invasion and metastatic ability of BCCs. In the meantime, overexpression of OCT4 activated STAT3 signaling and changed EMT-related protein expressions in BCCs. However, knockdown of STAT3 in BCCs with overexpression of OCT4 could facilitate EMT.Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that OCT4 suppresses EMT in BCCs through activation of STAT3 signaling, which is a key mechanism in impeding BCCs migration and invasion. Collectively, these data suggest that elevating OCT4 expression may be an effective method for reducing the metastatic potential of BCCs, which could also contribute to developing new methods for diagnosis and new molecular target therapies in breast cancer metastasis.
Measuring Health Care Experiences that Matter to Indigenous People in Australia with Cancer: Identifying Critical Gaps in Existing Tools
Authors: Green Monica , Cunningham Joan , Anderson Kate , Griffiths Kalinda , Garvey Gail
Published: September 2020

Background: The measurement of patients’ experiences of healthcare is increasingly used as an indicator of the quality of care. There are concerns that many mechanisms used to collect patient experience data produce large amounts of superficial data, while missing deeper, more nuanced information that is meaningful to the patient, and that insufficient attention is paid to whether the information is used to make a difference to health care. This is particularly so for Indigenous people in Australia, whose health care experience is impacted by the context of colonisation and discordance between Indigenous understandings of health and the biomedical health system. The aim of this study was to assess the extent to which existing patient experience measures currently in use in Australia collect information about the most critical aspects of cancer care, as identified by Indigenous people affected by cancer and their health care providers in previous research. Methods: A two-stage process was used to examine the adequacy of existing patient experience measures for Indigenous people in Australia: (1) relevant tools and measures were identified and assessed, and four measures were selected as suitable comparators; (2) the comparators were examined in detail and mapped against the topics identified in our earlier research as important to Indigenous people affected by cancer. Gaps in topic coverage in the comparators were identified. Results: No comparators completely captured the critical aspects of cancer care identified by Indigenous people with cancer and their health care providers. The number of topics ‘partially’ captured by the four comparators ranged from 4 to 7 out of 9. While most topics were at least partially covered, the lack of questions around culture and cultural safety was notable. Conclusions: Existing patient experience measurement tools are likely to miss some key aspects of Indigenous peoples’ experiences of cancer care in Australia. Failure to adequately assess experiences of care related to cultural safety may compromise efforts to improve health outcomes. Addressing the gaps requires the development of experience measures that are strengths-based, reflect an Indigenous world view and measure aspects of experience that are relevant to Indigenous people.
Nasal Carriage and Methicillin Resistance of Staphylococcus Aureus Among Schoolchildren in Sana’a City, Yemen
Authors: Othman Arwa Mohammed , Al-Huraibi Belques Sharaf , Assayaghi Rowa Mohammed , Al-Shami Huda Zaid
Published: September 2020

Background: Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a frequent cause of serious health problems with high morbidity and mortality. The risk of S. aureus infections is increased with the emergence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The aim of this study is to determine the nasal carriage rate of both S. aureus and MRSA among schoolchildren in Sana’a city.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted from January 2018 to May 2020. Five hundred and eighty eight students were enrolled. Nasal swabs were collected from each student for culturing and methicillin susceptibility testing. Results: Out 588 nasal swab, 536 yielded bacterial growth. Students with positive culture were 271(51%) males and 265(49%) females. Their age ranged from 5 to 19 years old with mean age and standard deviation equaled to 13.3±3.5 years. S. aureus was isolated from 129 (24%) students whereas the overall prevalence of MRSA was 8(1.5%). S. aureus was significantly recovered from students at age group 10-14 years (χ2 = 7.02, p = 0.03), females than males (OR= 1.96, χ2 = 10.75, p = 0.001), and students who were admitted into hospitals (OR= 1.6, χ2 = 4.89, p = 0.03). Nevertheless, there were no significant differences between MRSA carriage and students’ age (χ2 = 2.3, p = 0.32), gender (OR= 1.02, χ2 = 0.001, p = 0.63), and hospital admission (OR= 1.4, χ2 = 0.25, p = 0.62). Conclusions: The prevalence of MRSA is low among schoolchildren in Sana’a city. Age, gender and previous hospital admission were statistically associated with nasal carriage of S. aureus but not MRSA nasal carriage.
Determining electrocardiography training priorities for medical students using a modified Delphi method
Authors: Viljoen Charle Andre , Millar Rob Scott , Manning Kathryn , Burch Vanessa Celeste
Published: September 2020

Background
Although electrocardiography is considered a core learning outcome for medical students, there is currently little curricular guidance for undergraduate ECG training. Owing to the absence of expert consensus on undergraduate ECG teaching, curricular content is subject to individual opinion. The aim of this modified Delphi study was to establish consensus amongst content and context experts on an ECG curriculum for medical students.
Methods
The Delphi technique, an established method of obtaining consensus, was used to develop an undergraduate ECG curriculum. Specialists involved in ECG teaching were invited to complete three rounds of online surveys. An undergraduate ECG curriculum was formulated from the topics of ECG instruction for which consensus (i.e. ≥75% agreement) was achieved amongst the expert panel.
Results
The panellists (n = 131) had a wide range of expertise (42.8% Internal Medicine, 22.9% Cardiology, 16% Family Medicine, 13.7% Emergency Medicine and 4.6% Health Professions Education). Topics that reached consensus to be included in the undergraduate ECG curriculum were classified under technical aspects of performing ECGs, basic ECG analysis, recognition of the normal ECG and abnormal rhythms and waveforms and using electrocardiography as part of a clinical diagnosis. This study emphasises that ECG teaching should be framed within the clinical context. Course conveners should not overload students with complex and voluminous content, but rather focus on commonly encountered and life-threatening conditions, where accurate diagnosis impacts on patient outcome. A list of 23 “must know” ECG diagnoses is therefore proposed.
Conclusion
A multidisciplinary expert panel reached consensus on the ECG training priorities for medical students.
Clara Cell 16KDa Protein Mitigates House Dust Mite-Induced Airway Inflammation and Damage via Regulating Airway Epithelial Cell Apoptosis in a Manner Dependent on HMGB1-Mediated Signaling Inhibition.
Authors: Liu Meixuan , Lu Jingjing , Zhang Qian , Zhang Yunxuan , Guo Zhongliang
Published: September 2020

Background: House dust mite (HDM) inhalation can cause airway epithelial damage which is implicated in the process of airway inflammation in asthma. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is critically required for cellular damage and apoptosis as an important endogenous danger signal. Recently, Clara cell 16KDa protein (CC16) has been identified to exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory influence in various injury-related diseases model. However, little is known about its ability to protect against airway epithelial injury in allergic asthma. This study was aimed to clarify the protective roles of CC16 on airway epithelia in HDM-induced asthma and the regulation of HMGB1 by CC16.Methods: Mice were sensitized and challenged by HDM extract and administrated intranasally with CC16 (5ug/g or 10ug/g) or saline in the challenged period. The BEAS-2B human airway epithelial cell line were cultured with CC16 or the control vehicle and then exposed to HDM. Knockdown or overexpression of HMGB1 was induced by cell transfection.Results: CC16 treatment decreased airway inflammation and histological damage of airway epithelium dose-dependently in HDM-induced asthma model. Airway epithelia apoptosis upon HDM stimulation was noticeably abrogated by CC16 in vivo and in vitro. In addition, upregulation of HMGB1 expression and its related signaling were also detected under HDM conditions, while HMGB1 significantly inhibited the apoptosis of BEAS-2B cells. Furthermore, the activity of HMGB1-mediated signaling was restrained after CC16 treatment whereas HMGB1 overexpression abolished the protective effect of CC16 on HDM-induced airway epithelia apoptosis.Conclusions: Our data confirm that CC16 attenuates HDM-mediated airway inflammation and damage via suppressing airway epithelial cell apoptosis in a HMGB1-dependent manner, suggesting the role of CC16 as a potential therapeutic option for HDM-induced asthma.
Understanding the perceived impact and value of research advocacy initiatives for colorectal cancer
Authors: Garcia Reese , Dwyer Andrea J. , Worrall Sharyn , Davis Anjelica Q. , Roach Nancy
Published: September 2020

Background

Research advocacy utilizes patient insight to progress research, ensuring that patient values remain a priority. It is integral to inform activities such as designing clinical trials, providing perspectives on Institutional Review Boards (IRB’s), and reviewing research grants. As a leader in colorectal cancer (CRC) advocacy, Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) developed a formal research advocacy training program in 2015 with the goal of preparing CRC advocates to become the most educated patient voice at the research table.
Methods

To understand the effectiveness of a research advocacy training program and subsequently research advocacy as a whole, Fight CRC distributed online questionnaires between December 2018 and July 2019 to oncology professionals who had previously worked with Fight CRC research advocates, including physicians, program directors, and consumer review administrators. A questionnaire was also disseminated to Fight CRC research advocates.
Results

In total, twenty-six stakeholders participated and 89% agreed/strongly agreed that there was value in having the patient voice in research. Respondents reported that advocates provide a perspective that would not otherwise be considered in the research process. Fourteen research advocates participated in the survey and the majority indicated that the research advocacy program equipped them to sit on panels and provide effective insight. All research advocates believed that their patient insight is taken seriously by the research community.
Conclusion

In order for research advocacy to have a significant impact and a high perceived value on research, it is important to establish an effective training program to support adult learning. In addition, it is necessary for researchers to understand how advocates can positively influence their work, and how the scientific community can engage with and leverage research advocacy to its fullest potential to improve scientific research, delivery of care, and quality of life for patients with cancer.
At the Intersection of Homophobia and Racism: Sociocultural Context and the Sexual Health of South Asian Canadian Gay and Bisexual Men
Authors: Hart Trevor A , Sharvendiran Ramraajh , Chikermane Vijaya , Kidwai Ammaar , Grace Daniel
Published: September 2020

Objectives: South Asian gay and bisexual men in Canada are at risk for experiencing both intersectional structural oppressions related to homophobia and racism as well as for the acquisition of sexually transmitted infections including HIV. Our objective was to examine intersectional stigma among South Asian gay and bisexual men and its effects on their mental and sexual health.Design: We recruited 39 South Asian gay and bisexual men in the Greater Toronto Area and interviewed them via focus groups (n = 37) or one-on-one interviews (n = 2). The facilitators used a semi-structured interview protocol covering topics about sexual health of South Asian gay and bisexual men, including their how their home backgrounds and their experiences of being South Asian in predominantly white gay spaces affected their sexual health, and how these experiences shaped their attitudes about sexual health services. Data were analysed to understand how Intersectional stigma affected perceived choices and health among South Asian GBM.Results: Participants reported significant concerns about the effects of intersectional oppressions as South Asian gay and bisexual men, including distress about the potential social harms arising to one’s family for having a gay or bisexual son. Men also described feeling excluded by the white-dominated gay community. Intersectional stigma led to loneliness and social isolation among South Asian gay and bisexual men, and limited social power in sexual relationships.Conclusions: Findings suggest that South Asian gay and bisexual men preferred programs that focused on reducing social isolation and loneliness, as opposed to traditional safer sex programming focusing on HIV risk education.
Improvements in HOMA Indices and Pancreatic Endocrinal Tissues in Type -2 Diabetic Rats by DPP-4 Inhibition and Antioxidant Potential of an Ethanol Fruit Extract of Withania Coagulans
Authors: Ram Heera , Kumar Pramod , Purohit Ashok , Kashyap Priya , Kumar Suresh , Kumar Shivani , Singh Garima , Alqarawi Abdulaziz A. , Hashem Abeer , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Singh Bhim Pratap
Published: September 2020

Context: Withania coagulans (Stocks) Dunal fruits are used in the therapeutics of several ailments due to possessing of potent phytoconstituents which is also used traditionally for curing the diabetes. Objective: The present study was assessing the amelioration potential of the phytochemicals of an ethanol fruit extract of Withania coagulans (Stocks) Dunal in the HOMA (Homeostatic model assessment) indices and pancreatic endocrinal tissues by inhibition of DPP-4 and antioxidants activities.Material and methods: The identification of phytoconstituents of phytochemicals of the test extract was performed by LCMS. Further, assessments of in-vitro, in-vivo and in-silico were achieved by following standard methods. In-vivo studies were conducted on type-2 diabetic ratsResults: The chosen extract inhibited DPP-4 activity by 63.2% in an in vitro assay. Accordingly, the administration of the ethanol fruit extract resulted in a significant (𝑃≤ 0.001) alterations in the lipid profile, antioxidant levels, and HOMA indices. Moreover, pancreatic endocrinal tissues (islet of Langerhans) appeared to have the restoration of normal histoarchitecture as evidenced by increased cellular mass. Molecular docking (Protein - ligands) of identified phytoconstituents with DPP-4 (target enzyme) shown incredibly low binding energy (Kcal/mol) as required for ideal interactions. ADMET analysis of the pharmacokinetics of the identified phytoconstituents indicated an ideal profile as per Lipinski laws. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the phytoconstituents of an ethanol fruit extract of Withania coagulans have the potential to inhibit DPP-4 which result in improved glucose homeostasis and restoration of pancreatic endocrinal tissues in type-2 diabetic rats.
Evaluation of Lung Involvement in COVID-19 Pneumonia Based on Ultrasound Images
Authors: Hu Zhaoyu , Liu Zhenhua , Dong Yijie , Liu Jianjian , Huang Bin , Liu Aihua , Huang Jingjing , Pu Xujuan , Shi Xia , Yu Jinhua , Xiao Yang , Zhang Hui , Zhou Jianqiao
Published: September 2020

Background: Lung ultrasound (LUS) can be an important imaging tool for the diagnosis and assessment of lung involvement. In this study, we determined the ultrasound manifestations of the lung associated with COVID-19 pneumonia, and obtained the ultrasound image changes of the patients from the initial diagnosis to rehabilitation. Methods: The purpose of this study is to establish a lung involvement assessment model based on deep learning. A channel attention classification method based on squeeze-and-excitation network combining with ResNeXt (SE_ResNeXt) is proposed, which can automatically learn the importance of different channel features, so as to achieve selective learning of channels and further achieve more accurate classification results. Results and conclusion: Among 104 patients' data from multicenter and multi-mode ultrasound, the diagnostic model can achieve 97.11% accuracy. The lung involvement severity of COVID-19 pneumonia and the trend of lesion were evaluated quantitatively.
Vitamin D Receptor Bsm I Polymorphism and Osteoporosis Risk in postmenopausal women: A Meta-Analysis from 42 Studies
Authors: Liao JunLong , Qin Qiang , Zhou YongSheng , Ma RuPing , Zhou HeChao , Gu MaoRong , Feng Yunping , Wang BoYuan , Yang Ling
Published: September 2020

Objective: This study aimed to quantitatively summarize the evidence for VDR BsmI gene polymorphism and osteoporosis risk in postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: The PubMed, EMBASE, Weipu, CNKI, and Wanfang database were searched for eligible studies. Case-control studies containing available genotype frequencies of B/b were chosen, and Odds ratio (OR) with ­­­95% confidence interval (CI) was used to assess the strength of this association. Results: 4485 osteoporosis and 5490 controls were identified in our meta-analysis. In the stratified analysis, a significant association was observed between VDR BsmI gene polymorphism and osteoporosis susceptibility in Caucasians (additive model: OR=0.809, 95% CI 0.678~0.965, p=0.019, recessive model: OR=0.736, 95% CI 0.568~0.955, p=0.021, and co-dominant model: bb vs. BB OR=0.701, 95% CI 0.511~0.962 p= 0.028), and we failed to find any significant relationship in Asians. Conclusion: The present meta-analysis suggests that VDR BsmI genotype is associated with increased risk of osteoporosis in Caucasians but not in Asians. To draw comprehensive and true conclusions, further prospective studies with larger numbers of participants worldwide are needed to examine associations between VDR BsmI polymorphism and osteoporosis.
Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheter in Upper Extremities Could be a Risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis in Lower Extremities and D-Dimer in Neurology Department
Authors: Liu Wanli , He Lianxiang , Zeng Wenjing , Yue Liqing , Wei Jie , Zeng Shuangshuang , Wang Xiang , Gong Zhicheng
Published: September 2020

Background: With the in-depth study of Peripherally Inserted Central venous Catheter (PICC) related venous thrombosis, it is found that the incidence of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (LEDVT) in patients with PICC in upper extremities is higher than that in patients without PICC . However, there is no explanation for this clinical phenomenon that PICC related venous thrombosis seems to have exceeded the range of PICC travel . The purpose of this study is to elucidate this association between PICC in upper extremities and LEDVT by observing the changes of D-dimer . Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of adults in Neurology department who underwent Color Doppler ultrasound and D-dimer test between 1 April 2017 to 1 April 2020. We analyzed the related factors of LEDVT and the change of D-dimer value, compared the changes of D-dimer before and after PICC insertion, and evaluated the predictive value of D-dimer in patients with and without PICC. Results: ① It was found that the presence of PICC increased the risk of lower extremity venous thrombosis by 7 times (OR = 7.048 [95% CI: 4.486-11.074]; ②It was found that the presence of PICC promoted the increase of D-dimer value (OR = 5.133 [95% CI: 3.072-8.575]). ③ For patients without LEDVT, the level of D-dimer in patients with PICC was higher than that in patients without PICC (P < 0.05). ④ The level of D-dimer after PICC insertion was significantly higher than that before PICC insertion(P < 0.05). ⑤ In patients with PICC, the AUC value of D-dimer in the diagnosis of LEDVT was 0.657 (95% CI: 0.549-0.765), and the negative predictive value was 82.35%.Conclusion:PICC insertion may increase the level of D-dimer and become an important risk factor of LEDVT; For patients with PICC , D-dimer value is not suitable to rule out LEDVT.
Self-reported symptoms in a cohort of rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus during the COVID-19 quarantine period
Authors: Salido Evelyn O. , Tee Cherica A. , Reyes Patrick Wincy C. , Reyes Bernadette Heizel M. , Zamora Geraldine T. , Tee Michael L.
Published: September 2020

Background. During the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines, there was a supply shortage of hydroxychloroquine and methotrexate. This problem with medication access and the life changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic may predispose patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or lupus erythematosus (LE) to disease flares.Objective. This study aims to investigate self-reported symptoms of disease flares among patients with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus erythematosus during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods. A total of 512 completed online surveys from patients with LE or RA were collected. The gathered data included sociodemographic characteristics, self-reported physical symptoms, health service utilization, and availability of hydroxychloroquine and methotrexate.Results. Seventy-nine percent of respondents had lupus, while 21% had RA. One-third of the cohort had contact with their attending physician during the two-month quarantine period prior to the survey. Eighty-two percent were on hydroxychloroquine and 23.4% were on methotrexate; but 68.6% and 65%, respectively, of those prescribed had irregular intake of these medicines due to unavailability. The current health status was reported as good by 66.2%; 24% had no symptoms during the two-week period prior to the survey. The most common symptoms experienced were joint pain (67.4%), muscle pain (46.3%), headache (35.4%), and skin rash (25.4%). Five percent had a combination of these four most common symptoms. There was a higher proportion of patients with irregular supply of hydroxychloroquine with joint pains (54.9% versus 41.7%, p=0.012) and rash (24.7% versus 9.8%, p<0.001, Table 3).Conclusion. In our cohort of RA or LE, the majority reported at least one symptom that may indicate disease flare. There were more patients with joint pains or rash among those with irregular supply of hydroxychloroquine.
Bleomycin Induces Fibrotic Transformation of Bone Marrow Stromal Cells to Treat Height Loss of Intervertebral Disc Through the TGFβR1/Smad2/3 Pathway
Authors: Yang Xiao , chen zhiqian , Chen Chen , Han Chen , Zhou Yifan , Li Xunlin , Tian Haijun , Cheng Xiaofei , Zhang Kai , Qin An , Zhou Tangjun , Zhao Jie
Published: September 2020

Background: Lower back pain is often accredited to loss of intervertebral disc (IVD) height and compromised spine stability as a result of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). We aim to locally use Bleomycin to induce the fibrotic transformation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) as a means to induce reparative fibrosis to slow down the height loss.Methods: IVD from patients were gathered for histological examination. The expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β) signaling pathway was determined by qPCR and western blotting. Nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, annulus fibrosus (AF) cells and the Rats’ bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC)were cultured and their responsiveness to Bleomycin was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8, comet assay, transwell migration and wound healing assays. Rat IVDD models were created by puncture, rescued by Bleomycin injection and the effectiveness was evaluated by images (X-ray and MRI) and atomic force microscope.Results: Histological examination showed increased levels of pro-fibrotic markers in IVDD tissues from patients. AF cells and BMSC cells was induced to adopt to a pro-fibrotic phenotype with increased expression fibrotic markers Col1a1, Col3a1, FSP1. The pro-fibrotic effect of Bleomycin on AF cells and BMSCs was in part due to the activation of the TGFβ-TGFβR1-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. Pharmacological inhibition or gene knock-down of TGFβR1 could mitigate the pro-fibrotic effects. Conclusion: Locally injection of Bleomycin in rats’ IVD induced rapid fibrosis and maintained its height through TGFβ-TGFβR1-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Research Publications; Necessity of Maintaining Scientific Integrity
Authors: Qaiser D
Published: September 2020

Since the COVID-19 outbreak began in China, scientists and health professionals have rushed to understand and mitigate the threat, however, its root cause, spreading characteristic, effective way to control as well as therapeutical approaches are still a mystery and matter of scientific debate. In an effort to fight against this disease scientists also rushed for a global collaborative approach by sharing their findings so that others can use known information. In view of such emergency scientific journals took steps to expedite the peer review process for coronavirus-related manuscripts which poses another challenge of scientific integrity. Community attention on integrity brought another concern where many authors argue against the idea of peer-review exception which compromises high standard for quality in the name of crisis situations. In the space of eight months, the research community’s response to COVID-19 gives rise to a large volume of paper submission which required rigorous reviewing and of course huge amount of time however, it’s also time which demands fastest publication of the latest finding. To balance in scientific integrity of scholarly journal as well as crisis demand to expedite dissemination of known knowledge, AIJR took a unique approach for COVID-19 related manuscript submission to Int. Ann. Sci. only through AIJR preprints invitation. In this approach author shall post COVID-19 related articles to AIJR Preprints and if it seems suitable for further peer-reviewing, author will get invited to submit to Int. Ann Sci. otherwise author will be advised to improve the article with an updated version. In this way the latest finding can get disseminated immediately as a preprint and after submission to the journal it can undergo standard reviewing process to maintain the scientific integrity. Although invitation through preprints serves both purpose of fastest dissemination and the journal can maintain scientific integrity, preprint may have its own risk for sharing non-reviewed version which may include dishonest findings. The only way to make preprints a great place for accelerated publishing and minimize associated risk of sharing non-reviewed findings is that the authors, readers, and most importantly media reporters act in a vigilant manner by following the sharing responsibility and guidelines adhering to the highest ethical standards.
Characterization of Biodiesel from Alkaline Refinement of Waste Cooking Oil
Authors: Mustapha Aliru Olajide , Adebisi Amina Abiola , Olanipekun Bukola Opeyemi
Published: September 2020

The waste cooking oil (WCO) is a low cost and prospective feedstock with no competitive food uses for biodiesel production, but the yield and quality have been greatly affected by impurities.  This study examined the chemical and fuel quality of biodiesel of both WCO and alkaline treated WCO.  The transesterification process using the alkaline treated cooking oil (ACO) methanol and sodium hydroxide as catalyst followed the Association of Officials of Analytical Chemists (AOAC) techniques. The pH values between 7.27 and 8.65 were found for alkaline treated cooking methyl ester (ACME), alkaline treated cooking oil (ACO) and WCO. Density of ACME, ACO and WCO varied between 0.89 and 0.93 (g/cm3). The fatty acids found were benzoic acid (3.77%), octanoic acid (8.35%), and palmitic acid (75.02%) – most abundant. Comparison of results with the American Standard for Testing Materials (ASTM) values showed quality enhancements of ACO in physicochemical and fuel properties over WCO. The biodiesels from ACO have enhanced emulsification, fuel and free fatty acids qualities over the WCO, showing the refinement methodology of WCO has overall improvement in the biodiesel purity and quality against the previous conflicting reports.
Larvicidal Activity of Inorganic Salts Against Anopheles Stephensi and Culex Quinquefasciatus
Authors: Nsimba Francis Zakanda , Bobanga Thierry Lengu , Kabututu Pius Zakayi , Liesse Jean-Marie Iyamba
Published: September 2020

Mosquitoes transmit serious human diseases, causing millions of deaths worldwide every year and the development of resistance to chemical insecticides resulting in rebounding vectorial capacity. In this study, the larvicidal bioassays for activities of aqueous solutions of weak acid [(NH4)2SO4 and NaH2PO4] and weak base (Na2CO3 and NaHCO3) inorganic salts against late instar larvae of disease vectors Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus were carried out under laboratory settings. The four inorganic salts showed varied levels of larvicidal activities after 24 h-exposure on Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus larvae in a dose-dependent fashion. However, the larvicidal activities were relatively higher in Na2CO3 (LC50 = 3162 and 447 ppm) and NaHCO3 (LC50 = 5623 and 398 ppm) solutions as compared to those in (NH4)2SO4 (LC50 = 7943 and 1995 ppm) and NaH2PO4 (LC50 = 7943 and 7120 ppm). The present study showed that the inorganic salts Na2CO3, NaHCO3, (NH4)2SO4 and NaH2PO4 could serve as potential larviciding agents considering their low toxicity. Therefore, this study provides a first report on the larvicidal activity of the inorganic salts on mosquito larvae of disease vectors.
The correlation strength of the most important cryptocurrencies in the bull and bear market
Authors: Lahajnar Sebastian , Rožanec Alenka
Published: September 2020

The article explores the correlation strength of the ten most important cryptocurrencies, emphasizing the examination of differences during the periods of rising and falling prices. The daily and weekly returns of selected cryptocurrencies are taken as the basis for calculating and determining the correlation strength using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The survey covers the period from the beginning of 2017 to Bitcoin’s last local bottom in mid-March 2020. Research findings are as follows: 1) the most important cryptocurrencies are mostly moderately positively correlated with each other over time; 2) correlation strength decreases slightly during the bull period, but mostly remain in the range of moderate correlation; 3) correlation strength increases significantly during the bear period, with most cryptocurrencies strongly correlated with each other. The results do not change significantly if the daily or weekly cryptocurrency returns are used as the basis. A strong correlation in the period of falling prices prevents the effective diversification of the cryptocurrency portfolio, which must be considered when investing funds in the cryptocurrency market.
Formulation, Characterization and Pharmacokinetics of Long-acting Ceftiofur Hydrochloride Suspension
Authors: Xie Shuyu , Zhang Xiaoqiu , Luo Wanhe , Meng Kuiyu , Chen Dongmei , Pan Yuanhu , Tao Yanfei , Huang Lingli , Liu Zhenli , Wang Yulian , Yuan Zonghui
Published: September 2020

Objectives:

A ceftiofur hydrochloride long-acting oily suspension with no irritation was
prepared by testing and optimizing the types and amounts of organic solvents, suspending agents,
and surfactants.

Methods:

Its properties, stability, injection site irritation, in vitrorelease, and pharmacokinetics in
pigs were evaluated. The optimum formulation was used ethyl oleate, aluminum monosterate, and
span-80 as organic solvents, suspending agents, and surfactant, respectively. The drug microparticles
were uniform long strip with size of 1.53 ± 0.11 μm and no agglomerations, and were evenly
dispersed. The re-dispersed time, sedimentation rate and pH value of the suspension were 4 s under
a magnetic shaker rotating at 20 r/min, 1 and 5.0, respectively. It could go through 7-gage needle
smoothly with withdrawal volume of 9.9 mL/min.

Results:

The suspension showed good stability when stored away from light, no irritation at the injection
site and sustained release in PBS buffer. After intramuscular administration, the drug concentration
above 0.15 μg/mL was last for 120 h. Its elimination half-life (T1/2ke), mean residence
time (MRT), and bioavailability were increased by 1.73, 1.62, and 2.16 times compared to
Excenel®.

Conclusion:

The results suggested that the suspension had excellent sustained-release and will
make ceftiofur hydrochloride more effective and convenient to use.
The Endeavours in RAS Inhibition - the Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Hussain Javeena , Kirubakaran Sivapriya , Ravi Srimadhavi
Published: September 2020

KRAS mutations are known to be the most recurrent gain-of-function changes instigated in
patients with cancer. The RAS gene family is often mutated in most of the human cancers, and the pursuit
of inhibitors that bind to mutant RAS continues as a foremost target. RAS is a small GTPase that
controls numerous cellular functions, including cell proliferation, growth, survival, and gene expression.
RAS is hence closely engaged in cancer pathogenesis. The recent achievements in the discovery of RAS
inhibitors imply that the inhibition of RAS oncogene may soon go into clinical trials. This review article
describes the role of RAS in cancer drug discovery, the diverse methodologies used to develop direct or
indirect RAS inhibitors, and emphasize the current accomplishments in the progress of novel RAS inhibitors.
In short, this review focuses on the different attributes of RAS that have been targeted by a
range of inhibitors consisting of membrane localization, the active form of RAS, downstream regulator
binding, and nucleotide exchange binding. A detailed explanation of RAS and its involvement in cancer
drug discovery together with historical aspects are mentioned first followed by a brief outline of the different
approaches to target RAS.