bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of corporate restructuring on the financial performance of commercial banks in Nigeria
Authors: Uchenna Okoye Lawrence , Ehimare Omankhanlen Alexander , I. Okoh Johnson , N. Ezeji Felix , Ibileke Esther
Published: March 2020

The implementation of the 2004–2005 bank capital reform in Nigeria, introduced to deepen the financial capacity of the banking system, has led to a major restructuring of the banking sector. The reform required banks to increase their equity capital by about 1150 per cent (from two billion to twenty-five billion naira) within 18 months. Due to compliance challenges, the reform formed just twenty-five out of eighty-nine banks that previously existed. More than seventy-five per cent of the banks emerged through mergers and acquisitions. However, despite the massive increase in assets and deposit growth, episodes of bank distress have remained a recurring irritant in the country’s financial system. This study compares bank performance in the pre- and post-reform periods to determine the usefulness or efficacy of the capital reform in boosting bank performance based on panel analysis of data from five banks. The study covered the period 1996–2016. The generalized method of moments was used to evaluate the parameters of the model. The result of the random effects model shows a weak positive effect of total assets and deposit growth on bank performance in the pre-reform period. However, the post-reform assessment reveals that while profitability is significantly low in large-sized banks, it is higher in smaller banks. Given the above evidence, the study asserts that profit performance of banks is substantially linked to restructuring of the sector.
Diagnosis of gastrointestinal obstruction in dogs and cats using ultrasound – a retrospective study of 38 cases
Authors: MADANY JACEK , MILCZAK ANDRZEJ , WRZEŚNIEWSKA KAROLINA , MARTINEZ MARIA TERESA BALASTEGUI
Published: March 2020

GI obstruction often leads to intractable vomiting, the consequences of which can be life-threatening. For diagnosing, an ileus clinical examination with abdominal radiographs or ultrasonographs are chosen routinely. The purpose of the study was to determine the incidence of GI obstruction among animals with gastrointestinal symptoms and to define ultrasonographic accuracy in detecting these GI obstructions. 38 animals (31 dogs and 7 cats) were included in the study. At the first consultation they presented gastrointestinal symptoms. A clinical examination with palpation of the abdomen was made. An ultrasound examination was made by an experienced radiologist. 17 of the 38 animals were diagnosed with obstructive ileus. In 15 of these 17 the ileus was confirmed, and in the remaining 2 only functional obstruction and enteritis was found. For the other 21 of the 38 animals the ileus was excluded. The animals with GI obstruction accounted for 39.5% of all animals with GI symptoms. The ultrasound examination was effective in 88.2% of cases. Intestinal obstruction is common in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. Vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation are the main symptoms. Abdomen pain is rare. Ultrasound is a valuable and safe method for detecting GI obstructions. In only 2 animals was ileus misdiagnosed.
A nanofiltration membrane prepared by PDA-C3N4 for removal of divalent ions
Authors: Bi Qiuyan , Zhang Chao , Liu Jiandong , Cheng Qi , Xu Shiai
Published: March 2020

In this study, a positively charged nanofiltration (NF) membrane was prepared by interfacial polymerization for separation of divalent cations, whereby a nanomaterial (modified graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) with poly(dopamine), PDA-C3N4) was incorporated into the active layer of the NF membrane. PDA-C3N4 sheets were synthesized from g-C3N4 sheets prepared by thermal oxidation of melamine, and the preparation conditions of NF membrane were also optimized. The results show that the roughness of PDA-C3N4 embedded NF membrane decreases, and the hydrophilicity and the permeation increase. The membrane also shows high rejection for divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Ba2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+) but low rejection (36.8%) for monovalent cation (Li+), as well as good fouling resistance performance. The fabricated membrane has the potential for treatment of industrial wastewater.
Condução de oficinas com grupos focais: uma pesquisa com alunos do ensino fundamental I para investigação da percepção de riscos de desastres
Authors: Fonseca Mendes Adricia , Matos de Carvalho Ricardo José
Published: March 2020

Crianças em idade escolar do ensino fundamental I passam pelo menos 20% do tempo diário e, aproximadamente, 35% do tempo que fica acordado dentro da escola. Apesar da condição de vulnerabilidade em que poderão se encontrar, as crianças não podem ser vistas como vítimas passivas frente aos desastres, porque, elas podem agir nestas situações, e também participar de todos os assuntos que afetam suas vidas. Diante disso, esta pesquisa visa conhecer qual é a percepção que os alunos do 5° ano do Ensino Fundamental I de uma escola pública estadual do bairro de Mãe Luíza (Natal/RN) têm dos riscos de desastres relacionados ao bairro onde moram/estudam e suas escolas. Para tanto, foram realizadas quatro oficinas em que os alunos foram convidados a falar sobre suas percepções acerca de riscos de desastres, a partir dos seguintes temas motivadores: noções de desastres, causas dos desastres, possibilidade da ocorrência dos desastres, memórias do deslizamento de terra ocorrido em 2014 no bairro de Mãe Luíza, comunicação referente ao risco de desastres e relação entre a comunidade e as instituições envolvidas na gestão de risco de desastre. Dentre os principais resultados estão as dificuldades demonstradas pelos alunos referentes à compreensão da noção de desastres e de suas causas e a limitação do conhecimento que eles têm do órgão de Proteção e Defesa Civil municipal. Pretende-se com os resultados desta pesquisa contribuir com a formulação de políticas públicas e ações de proteção e defesa civil.
Eventos pluviais intensos e seus impactos em Campina Grande-PB
Authors: Oliveira Sena Jaricélia Patrícia de , Beserra Lucena Daisy , Moares Neto João Miguel
Published: March 2020

A pluviometria é um fator importante para a caracterização do clima de uma determinada região. Portanto, o conhecimento da quantidade, intensidade e frequência da pluviosidade é de extrema importância para o desenvolvimento socioambiental de uma localidade. Nesse trabalho objetivou-se analisar a frequência de chuvas diárias, iguais ou superiores a 50 mm/dia, e seus impactos no município de Campina Grande – PB, no período de janeiro de 1994 a julho de 2018. Os dados de chuvas diárias foram obtidos na Agência Executiva de Gestão das Águas do Estado da Paraíba (AESA) para o posto Campina Grande/Embrapa. Foram identificados 30 eventos de chuvas diárias com intensidade acima de 50 mm/dia, com maior frequência de registro, no ano de 2011, 7 eventos extremos. Em escala mensal, os eventos extremos encontram-se dentro do período chuvoso do município(maio a julho). No ano de 2018 foi registrado em 10 de fevereiro um evento com um volume pluviométrico de 56,8 mm, com duração de menos que 2hs, que segundo a Defesa Civil causou vários prejuízos à sociedade de Campina Grande – PB.
Problemáticas socioambientais urbanas: transformações e permanências no Buraco da Jia (Rosa Mística)/Campina Grande-PB
Authors: Mendes de Araújo Caline
Published: March 2020

As transformações socioespaciais nas cidades se dão de maneira cada vez mais aceleradas. Contraditoriamente, em alguns espaços parece que essas transformações ocorrem a passos mais lentos, tendo em vista que as mesmas são provenientes da ação de diversos agentes produtores do espaço e acontecem em escalas espaço-temporais diferentes. Um exemplo desse processo é a antiga Favela Buraco da Jia (denominada também como Rosa Mística) localizada na cidade de Campina Grande. Esse espaço teve origem a partir de loteamentos clandestinos nas décadas de 1940 e 1950, passou por uma intervenção insipiente e incompleta do Estado na década de 1980 e, atualmente, é considerada, pela Defesa Civil, como sendo uma das áreas de risco da cidade. Partindo de procedimentos metodológicos como levantamentos bibliográficos e documentais, visitas in loco e registros fotográficos, o texto que segue tem como objetivo compreender as principais transformações e permanências ocorridas naquele espaço, no que se refere às problemáticas socioambientais e aspectos correlatos. Constata-se que, embora tenha passado por importantes modificações expressas nas suas tipologias espaciais, em outros aspectos o espaço parece ter “parado no tempo”, visto que algumas problemáticas verificados na sua origem, dentre as quais as socioambientais que serão tratadas ao longo do texto, ainda hoje podem ser observadas em parte considerável daquele espaço.
Uso da banda termal do TM/Landsat 5 e NDVI no Mapeamento Digital de Solos do Delta do Parnaíba – Piauí
Authors: Amorim João Victor Alves , Valladares Gustavo Souza , Silva Francisco John Lennon Tavares da , Leal Janaira Marques
Published: March 2020

O litoral do Piauí apresenta grande diversidade de ecossistemas frágeis e materiais pouco consolidados, onde diversos processos erosivos e de deposição atuam sobre ele, caracterizando um ambiente altamente dinâmico. Além disso, as planícies vegetadas do Delta do Parnaíba apresentam alto valor paisagístico e turístico. Tais fatores justificam o mapeamento dos solos, visando sua conservação e monitoramento. Nessa perspectiva, o presente estudo teve como objetivo mapear os solos do Delta do Parnaíba, através da aplicação de duas variáveis oriundas de uma imagem orbital: banda termal e NDVI. O mapa de temperatura foi confeccionado utilizando as imagens do sensor Thermal Mapper, do satélite Landsat 5. O NDVI foi gerado a partir da razão das bandas vermelha e infravermelho próximo. Os solos foram descritos e coletados em campo por meio da análise de trincheiras, minitrincheiras e tradagens, de acordo com o que preconiza o Sistema Brasileiro de Classificação de Solos. Com base nos resultados, observa-se uma relação entre a cobertura vegetal e a temperatura da superfície, principalmente nas áreas de Planície Flúvio-Marinha e Planície e Terraço Fluvial, onde há predominância de solos com caráter hidromórfico. Ressalta-se que a banda termal e o NDVI mostraram-se atributos promissores no Mapeamento Digital de Solos de ambientes litorâneos.
Avaliação da qualidade da água superficial em bacias urbanas da Ilha do Maranhão
Authors: Costa de Jesus Veruska , Nébias Barreto Helen , Ribeiro Bezerra Amanda , Barra Amador Rafael
Published: March 2020

O presente trabalho avalia a qualidade da água em duas microbacias urbanas (rios Urucutiua e Claro) situadas na Ilha do Maranhão, visando comparar os efeitos da urbanização e os impactos ambientais. Para isso, realizou-se  análise laboratorial de parâmetros físico-químicos e microbiológicos de amostras de água superficial coletadas bimestralmente (2013-2014) em quatro pontos e; o mapeamento do uso e ocupação do solo das microbacias por meio do SIG ArcGIS, em recorte temporal (2007-2014) de imagens de satélite Quickbird. Os resultados indicaram, a contaminação em níveis elevados por microrganismos patogênicos em todas as amostras: Escherichia coli, na bacia do rio Urucutiua e; Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus penneri, e Chromobacterium violaceum, na bacia do rio Claro. Os parâmetros físico-químicos mostraram acidez elevada em todas as amostras; Oxigênio Dissolvido abaixo do recomendado em 75% das amostras do rio Claro e 33% do rio Urucutiua; e Nitrogênio total acima do permitido em 91,7% das amostras. O uso do solo mostrou que a microbacia do rio Urucutiua sofreu as maiores alterações, com expressiva supressão da vegetação (71,6%, em 2007 e; 34,1% em 2014) e aumento das áreas de solo exposto, enquanto a bacia do rio Claro apresentou consolidação do processo de urbanização.
Problemas Ambientais no Município de Meruoca, Ceará, Brasil
Authors: Ribeiro Mendes Marcos Venicios , Ferreira Diniz Simone , Lima da Costa Galvão Cleire
Published: March 2020

O nosso planeta é afetado por distintos problemas ambientais, sendo sua maioria praticados pela ação humana que acabam atingindo a fauna, flora, água, ar e solo. Perante essa situação, percebe-se que qualquer atividade executada pelo homem no meio ambiente, ocasionará em problemas ambientais, sejam de ordem positiva ou negativa, resultando muitas das vezes em degradação. Relacionado a isso temos como exemplo a serra da Meruoca, nosso objeto de estudo que está localizada na parcela noroeste cearense. A pesquisa foi realizada a partir da TGS propositada por Bertalanffy (2008) que apresenta a interação dos elementos do meio físico, conforme a dinâmica de seus processos naturais e antrópicos, que contou ainda com atividades de campo para coletas de dados cartográficos , e coletas de solos para fins de análises físicas, além de registros fotográfico. Os resultados mostram que os problemas no Município são diversos, como a poluição dos recursos hídricos, assoreamento, especulação imobiliária e principalmente o solo que vem sofrendo com processo de erosão. Resta no dizer que muitas melhorias devem ser executadas por parte do poder público, promovendo medidas mitigadoras a fim de amenizar eventos adversos tendo em vista que o Município faz parte da Área de Preservação Ambiental-APA.
Organização espacial das caieiras e fornos de cal no campo calcário Aroeiras, municípios de Coreaú e Sobral (CE): passado e presente
Authors: Batista de Albuquerque Francisco Nataniel
Published: March 2020

A apropriação dos elementos e aspectos da natureza dos geossistemas como recurso natural definem os sistemas ambientais e sua expressão geográfica, as organizações espaciais. Diante desse contexto, o presente artigo tem por objetivo analisar a organização espacial das caieiras e fornos de cal, unidades rudimentares e tradicionais de produção da cal, na paisagem do geossistema do campo calcário Aroeiras nos municípios de Coreaú e Sobral, região Noroeste do Estado do Ceará. A identificação das caieiras e fornos de cal se deu mediante análise de imagem de satélite e trabalho de campo no ano de 2015. Como resultado da pesquisa, foram identificadas 73 unidades de produção de cal, sendo 71 caieiras e 02 fornos de cal classificadas em ativas (19), desativadas (19) e destruídas (35) no campo Aroeiras e adjacências distribuídas pelo quadrilátero calcário delimitado pelos distritos de Aroeiras – Aprazível – São Joé do Torto – Ubaúna. As unidades produtivas estão organizadas espacialmente em 04 núcleos de produção e uma unidade isolada: Vila Basílio – Pau D’Arco, Queimadas – Visitação, Ubaúna – Campo do Meio, Ipu dos Lopes – Três Lagoas, São José do Torto e, Coreaú. Podemos concluir que apenas 1/3 das unidades estão em funcionamento, das quais 53% encontram-se no núcleo de produção Vila Basílio – Pau D’Arco ao longo de 14 km da rodovia CE-364 e cada vez mais distantes dos núcleos populacionais evidenciando  um distanciamento dos núcleos populacionais e a concentração nos principais eixos rodoviários em função dos custos de transporte e da poluição causada pela combustão dos fornos às residências.
Use of bronchial blockers for thoracic surgery in pediatric oncology
Authors: Martynov L. A. , Matinyan N. V. , Kazantsev A. P. , Belousova E. I.
Published: March 2020

Introduction. Treatment of children with mediastinal and lung tumors is an urgent problem in both surgery and anesthesiology. Main goal is to grant optimal conditions for the surgery – collapse of the lung on the side of the operation, while maintaining adequate oxygenation and efficient transport of oxygen to the tissues. The choice of devices for carrying out one-lung ventilation (OLV) is the most important factor determining the safety of the patient.

Aim of the study. To increase the efficiency and safety of anesthesia for thoracic surgeries in children due to the use of bronchial blockers (BB) for one-lung ventilation (OLV). Materials and methods. 92 surgeries were performed (49 – thoracoscopic, 43 – thoracotomies) in 11–17 years old 92 patients. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: BB group (n = 56) – OLV was performed using bronchial blocker; double-lumen tubes (DLT) group (n = 36) – OLV was performed using a DLT. Ventilation parameters, hemodynamics, the incidence of complications in the perioperative and postoperative periods were recorded.

Results. A much less prolonged lungs separation time in BB group was found compared to the DLT group (65.32 ± 17.32 sec versus 99.0 ± 9.03 sec respectively, p < 0.0001) and a lower frequency of repositioning (0.2 ± 0.4 and 0.57 ± 0.51 respectively, p = 0.04). In patients with BB, less complications were recorded, such as postoperative aphonia and sore throat.

Conclusion. BB demonstrate efficacy and safety in OLV management for thoracic surgeries in pediatric oncology. They provide faster lungs separation time than DLT, irrespective of the side of the surgery, allow complete collabation of the lung with a less frequent need for repositioning. The introduction of a new method of OLV with the use of BB in children is associated with reduction of the length of stay of patients in the intensive care unit during the postoperative period due to the reduction in complications such as trauma of the main bronchi, aphonia and sore throat.
Atypical teratoid-rhabdoid tumors: molecular genetics feutures, perspectives of treatment. Review of literature
Authors: Smirnova A. Yu. , Goncharov A. Yu. , Dinikina Yu. V. , Kim A. V. , Khachatryan W. A. , Belogurova M. B.
Published: March 2020

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRT) are the most common malignant embryonal tumors of central nervous system in young children. Metastatic stage reveals in 20–30 % cases at the diagnosis. ATRT is a primarily monogenic disease characterized by the biallelic mutation of the SMARCB1, more rarely SMARCA4 genes. The survival rate of ATRT’s patients is poor. Multimodal treatment approaches including surgery, conventional dose chemotherapy with intrathecal therapy, high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell resсue and radiotherapy have shown significant potential for improving outcomes. Recent epigenetic and transcriptional studies conducted by two independent research groups have identified three subgroups of ATRT. It has different molecular characteristics with appropriate therapeutic sensitivity. Further study of molecular types, inclusion of biologically targeted agents may be a promising strategy for optimizing treatment in future studies.
Body Weight, Cholesterol Changes and Sub-Chronic Toxicity of Mice Treated with An Emulsion Product Rich in b-Carotene
Authors: Bohari Bohari , Lestari Fenny Dian , Rahmadi Anton
Published: March 2020

Background: One of the conditions for releasing standardized herbal medicines is the presence of pre-clinical testing that can be conducted with mice. Emulsion products with the main composition of pumpkin, red palm oil, and dragon fruit have high levels of β-carotene. The purpose of this study was to observe changes in weight, cholesterol, and sub-chronic toxicity from mice treated with emulsion products.Materials and Methods: Mice observed consisted of 6 groups: (1) untreated control (given standard ration); (2) negative control (given standard ration and 2.8% (v/b) egg yolk); (3) positive control (given standard ration and 0.4% (v/b) β-carotene); (4) standard ration, 0.4% (v/b) β-carotene and 2.8% (v/b) egg yolk; (5) given a standard ration and 2% (v/b) emulsion products; and (6) given a standard ration, 2% (v/b) emulsion products and 2.8% (v/b) egg yolk. Observations of sub-chronic toxicity were done by measuring creatinine levels, kidney weight, and visual observation of kidney swelling.Results: The use of β-carotene-rich emulsions does not cause a decrease in the average weight of mice. In general, β-carotene and emulsion can overcome cholesterol increases on the 7th day, but not for the 15th day as a result of standard food intake. The increase in creatinine levels only occurs in mice treated with egg yolk control. The additional treatment of β-carotene and emulsion successfully prevents the increase in creatinine levels.Conclusion: Emulsion products did not cause changes in weight, were able to reduce cholesterol levels in a limited manner and were not toxic to mice.Keywords: cholesterol changes, sub-chronic toxicity, b-carotene, emulsion
Antioxidant Activities of Ficus elastica Leaves Ethanol Extract and Its Compounds
Authors: Ginting Chrismis Novalinda , Lister I Nyoman Ehrich , Girsang Ermi , Riastawati Dewi , Kusuma Hanna Sari Widya , Widowati Wahyu
Published: March 2020

Background: The excessive free radicals condition called oxidative stress can harmful for the body. To prevent and cure it, the antioxidant agents are required. Nowadays, the natural product extracted from plants have been widely used in folk medicine as antioxidant for the treatment of many diseases. Ficus elastica (rubber tree) has some compounds that has several biological activities, i.e., quercitrin, myricitrin, morin, and eleutheroside B. The F. elastica works against the free radicals and can be potential as antioxidant agent. The purpose of this study was to evaluate antioxidant properties of F. elastica ethanolic extract (FEE), quercitrin, myricitrin, morin, and eleutheroside B.Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activities of FEE and standard compounds were evaluated by free radical-scavenging activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), 2,2’-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline- 6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) activities using spectrophotometry method.Results: FEE has the lowest of DPPH scavenging activity (IC50=13.82 µg/mL) than other compounds. In ABTS scavenging activity, FEE has moderate activity with IC50 value 23.29 µg/mL. In FRAP activity, FEE has moderate activity with value 241.58 µM Fe(II)/µg, while in H2O2 scavenging activity, FEE also show moderate activity with IC50=83.97 µg/mL compared to other compounds.Conclusion: In summary, FEE and the pure compounds (quercitrin, myricitrin, morin, and eleutheroside B) have potential as antioxidant agent.Keywords: free radical, morin, myricitrin, quercitrin, rubber tree, scavenging activities
Single Heterocyclic Compounds as Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: From Past to Present
Authors: Wu Su-Min , Qiu Xiao-Yang , Liu Shu-Juan , Sun Juan
Published: March 2020

Inhibitors of monoamine oxidase (MAO) have shown therapeutic values in a variety of neurodegenerative
diseases such as depression, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Heterocyclic
compounds exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities and vital leading compounds for the development
of chemical drugs. Herein, we focus on the synthesis and screening of novel single heterocyclic
derivatives with MAO inhibitory activities during the past decade. This review covers recent
pharmacological advancements of single heterocyclic moiety along with structure- activity relationship
to provide better correlation among different structures and their receptor interactions.
Relation of Steatosis to Neurocognitive Function in People Living with HIV
Authors: Marić Daniela , Brkić Snežana , Ignjatović Vojislava Bugarski , Nikolaševic Željka , Ilić Dalibor , Vujanović Miloš , Drvendžija Zorka , Galić Biljana Srdić
Published: March 2020

Background:

In HIV negative population metabolic syndrome and steatosis are related
to poorer neurocognitive (NC) performance. We investigated if similar relation exists in people living
with HIV (PLWH).

Methods::

We included male PLWH aged 20-65, with undetectable viral load for at least 6 months.
Data on levels of education, anthropometric measurements, CD4 levels, ART, markers of metabolic
syndrome, smoking and concurrent treatment were collected from database. Concentrations of
TNF-α and IL-6 were measured. An ultrasound was used to establish the presence of steatosis, visceral
fat thickness and carotid intima media thickness. An extensive NC assessment was done by an
experienced neuropsychologist. Cognitive domains were defined as executive functions, divergent
reasoning, visuo-constructional abilities, delayed recall and working memory and learning and were
measured using a battery of 12 tests.

Results:

88 PLWH were included (mean age 39,9 years), 51% on PIs, 46% on NNRTI; 20,4% had
metabolic syndrome, 42% patients had steatosis. Weak but statistically significant negative correlations
were found between the presence of metabolic syndrome, steatosis and VFT and cognitive
domains (divergent reasoning, delayed recall and working memory). Poorer perfomrance in the
domains of divergent reasoning and in the working memory were found in participants with steatosis
(p=0,048 and 0,033 respectively).

Conclusion:

Although the sample size was relatively small, our results show consistent correlations
between the observed neurocognitive variables and metabolic parameters. As central obesity is one
of the contributors to NCI, it would be one of the modifiable factors to prevent further neurocognitive
decline.
Facile One-Pot Synthesis and Crystal Structure of 2:1 Adducts of Myrcene (or Ocimene) with Benzoquinones
Authors: Bhat Sujata V. , Pawar Rohan S. , Rajakannu P.
Published: March 2020

One-pot tandem oxidation and double Diels-Alder reaction of myrcene or ocimene with
in situ generated 1,4-benzoquinone or 1,2-benzoquinone at 0°C for 1.5 h yielded polyalkylated
1,4,4a,5,8,8a,9a,10a-octahydro-9,10-anthracenediones and bis(alkylated) 9,10-phenanthrenedione respectively.
The structure of novel bis-adduct from ocimene, (1R,4aR,5S,8aS,9aS,10aR)-rel-
1,4,4a,5,8,8a,9a,10a-octahydro-2,6-dimethyl-1,5-bis(3-methyl-2-buten-1-yl)-9,10-anthracenedione,
was elucidated through single crystal X-ray analysis.
Lepidine B from Lepidium sativum Seeds as Multi-Functional Anti- Alzheimer’s Disease Agent: In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Talia Serseg , Benarous Khedidja , Lamrani Meriem , Yousfi Mohamed
Published: March 2020

Objective:

The present study is carried out to screen the anticholinesterase effect of the
total alkaloids of L. sativum seeds and other plants, and studied the ability of Lepidine B & E to inhibit
AChE, BuChE, BACE, and MAGL. Hence, determining the main interactions in the inhibitorenzyme
complex.

Methods:

Inhibitory effect of Lepidium sativum, Juniperus phoenicea and Juniperus oxycedrus extracts
on acetylcholinesterase using the Ellman method was investigated with Donepezil as the
positive control. A molecular docking study is achieved using Autodock Vina. The structures of
target molecules Lepidine B & E and the four enzymes were obtained from the PubChem database
and Protein databank.

Results:

Alkaloidal extract of Lepidium sativum and ethyl acetate extracts of Juniperus phoenicea
and Juniperus oxycedrus exhibit a strong acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of
0.59 ± 0.04, 0.57 ± 0.00 and 0.49 ± 0.00 mg/mL, respectively using Donepezil <0.25 mg/mL as a
positive control. The major components of alkaloids of L. sativum, Lepidine B & E bind tightly to
AChE and BuChE as much as galantamine and donepezil. We suggest that Lepidine B is a noncompetitive
inhibitory by interacting with PAS of AChE and BuChE, therefore it is capable to prevent
the HuAChE-induced Aβ aggregation. All the complexes of Lepidine B & E with the four enzymes
show significant, several and different interactions.

Conclusion:

Our current study indicates that Lepidine B & E are promising anti-AD drugs and
might become drug candidates to prevent Alzheimer's disease due to their multiple roles as potent
inhibitors for AChE, BuChE, BACE, and MAGL. Indeed, they could inhibit Aβ fibrillogenesis. No
previous results about the inhibitory effect of Lepidine B & E on the AChE, BuChE, β secretase,
and monoacylglycerol lipase were reported.
Is Intraoperative Opioids Avoidance A Utopia? A Matched Study in Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Authors: Forget Patrice , De Kock Marc , Lovqvist Linda , Lois Fernande
Published: March 2020

Background:

Opioid-sparing strategies are recommended, and Opioid-Free Anaesthesia
(OFA) is proposed in the literature. But few data exist about the feasibility of OFA in the routine
practice. From a larger series of 21,463 patients receiving OFA, this work investigates the postoperative
pain and related outcomes in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Materials and Methods:

This matched retrospective study concerned 521 patients scheduled for a
laparoscopic hysterectomy between 2010 and 2015 (118 receiving OFA and 403 receiving anaesthesia
with opioids, AO). Primary outcome was pain in the Post-Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU).

Results:

Among the 521 included patients, 403 received sufentanil (mean±SD: 0.1±0.05 mcg/kg),
the only synthetic opioid used to balance anaesthesia. Concerning the 118 patients receiving OFA,
most of them received an association of clonidine (97%) and ketamine (95%). Most of the patients
in both groups received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. No difference in pain scores was
observed between AO and OFA (median [IQR], respectively: 4 [0-5] vs. 4.5 [0-6], P=0.74). A difference
in the perioperative morphine equivalent use was observed (mean±SD: 0.18±0.06 mg/kg vs.
0.09±0.06 mg/kg, P<0.001). No difference was observed regarding the nausea/vomiting incidences,
use of anti-emetics, sedation scores, or time spent at the PACU.

Conclusions:

Coming from an extensive daily practice, these data show that OFA is feasible and not
associated with higher pain scores or longer PACU stay, suggesting the absence of specific immediate
complications.
Feasibility of Repurposing Clioquinol for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Khan Raheel , Khan Harras , Abdullah Yassen , Dou Q. Ping
Published: March 2020

Background:

Cancer is a prevalent disease in the world and is becoming more widespread as
time goes on. Advanced and more effective chemotherapeutics need to be developed for the treatment
of cancer to keep up with this prevalence. Repurposing drugs is an alternative to discover new chemotherapeutics.
Clioquinol is currently being studied for reposition as an anti-cancer drug.

Objective:

This study aimed to summarize the anti-cancer effects of clioquinol and its derivatives
through a detailed literature and patent review and to review their potential re-uses in cancer treatment.

Methods:

Research articles were collected through a PubMed database search using the keywords
“Clioquinol” and “Cancer.” The keywords “Clioquinol Derivatives” and “Clioquinol Analogues” were
also used on a PubMed database search to gather research articles on clioquinol derivatives. Patents
were gathered through a Google Patents database search using the keywords “Clioquinol” and “Cancer.”

Results:

Clioquinol acts as a copper and zinc ionophore, a proteasome inhibitor, an anti-angiogenesis
agent, and is an inhibitor of key signal transduction pathways responsible for its growth-inhibitory activity
and cytotoxicity in cancer cells preclinically. A clinical trial conducted by Schimmer et al., resulted
in poor outcomes that prompted studies on alternative clioquinol-based applications, such as new
combinations, new delivery methods, or new clioquinol-derived analogues. In addition, numerous patents
claim alternative uses of clioquinol for cancer therapy.

Conclusion:

Clioquinol exhibits anti-cancer activities in many cancer types, preclinically. Low therapeutic
efficacy in a clinical trial has prompted new studies that aim to discover more effective clioquinol-
based cancer therapies.
Increased NID1 Expression among Breast Cancer Lung Metastatic Women; A Comparative Analysis between Naive and Treated Cases
Authors: Urooj Tabinda , Wasim Bushra , Mushtaq Shamim , Haider Ghulam , Shah Syed N.N. , Ghani Rubina , Qureshi Muhammad F.H.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Lungs are the second most common reported site of distant metastasis in Breast cancer after bone. Mostly the studies were conducted in cell lines and animal model. To date, there is no blood biomarker reported that could determine the breast cancer progression in terms of lung metastasis.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to determine Nidogen-1 (NID1)’s mRNA and protein expressions in non-invasive blood samples of breast cancer, in early (II) and lung metastasis advanced stages (III & IV) of naive and treated groups. To determine the functional association of NID1, we employed an in silico analysis, STRING database version 11.

Methods:

A total of n = 175 cases of breast cancer were recruited in our study. Real time quantitative PCR and ELISA were performed to analyze the mRNA and protein expressions of NID1 respectively. An in silico method is also used to assess NID1’s interactome. Some significant patents related to this topic were also studied and discussed in this research paper.

Results:

The results show high levels of NID1’s mRNA in the naive group (Group A) as compared to treated group (Group B). Similar trend of increased NID1’s protein expressions was also observed among naive and treated groups, respectively. Our results also show the significant impact of treatment on NID1’s gene and protein expressions. In silico analysis has revealed the functional association of NID1 with its different interactome protein partners.

Conclusions:

The increased expression of NID1 in early to advanced naive as compared to the treated groups with lung metastasis makes it a promising marker which has pro-metastatic role in breast cancer.
Beta-Caryophyllene Suppresses Ovarian Cancer Proliferation by Inducing Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis
Authors: Arul Santhosh , Rajagopalan Harinee , Ravi Jivitesh , Dayalan Haripriya
Published: March 2020

Background:

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths among women with
lesser prognostics. Current treatment options are chemotherapy with platinum and taxane based chemotherapy.
β-Caryophyllene (BCP) an essential oil found in many plant species is known to possess an anti-proliferative
effect.

Objective:

We aimed to investigate the antiproliferative, cytotoxic, and apoptotic role of BCP against ovarian
cancer cells PA-1 and OAW 42.

Methods:

The antiproliferative effect of BCP was determined by MTT assay and cell viability by trypan blue
exclusion assay. Cell cycle and live/dead cell analyses were performed by flow cytometry to determine cell
cycle distribution and apoptosis, respectively.

Results:

Results of MTT assay proved the anti-proliferative effect of BCP in a dose and time-dependent manner
in ovarian cancer cells. Cell cycle analysis showed that BCP induced S Phase arrest in OAW 42 cells. Results of
apoptosis assay confirmed the apoptosis inducing potential of BCP in ovarian cancer cells. The apoptosis is
mediated by caspase-3 activation and PARP cleavage.

Conclusion:

The results of our present study prove that BCP exerts its action partly by inducing cell cycle arrest
and apoptosis in ovarian cancer. We conclude that BCP is a potential anti-cancer agent.
Hybrids of Quinoline and Anilinopyrimidine: Novel EGFRT790M Inhibitors with Antiproliferative Activity against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Han Chun , Ren Jiahong , Su Feng , Hu Xiaoqin , Li Mengyao , Wang Zhijun , Wu Lintao
Published: March 2020

Background:

The third-generation irreversible Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Tyrosine
Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) inhibit the T790M mutation while sparing EGFRWT. However, the C797S point mutation
confers resistance to existing irreversible EGFRT790M inhibitors.

Objective:

Novel EGFRT790M inhibitors were designed through hybridization of quinoline and anilinopyrimidine,
and biologically evaluated their antiproliferative activity against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) cell
lines.

Methods:

The target compounds 11a-h were synthesized and structurally characterized with 1H, 13C Nuclear
Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS). Their inhibitory
effects on tumor cell proliferation and EGFR kinase were biologically evaluated. Additionally, molecular docking
studies were also performed on the representative typical EGFRT790M inhibitor.

Results:

Most of the evaluated compounds displayed moderate antiproliferative activity on H1975 cells with
EGFRL858R/T790M. However, compound 11a (IC50 = 2.235 ± 0.565μM) showed stronger inhibition than gefitinib
(IC50 = 8.830 ± 0.495μM) in concentration- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, compound 11a exhibited
weaker inhibitory activities on cells with EGFRWT. Specifically, compound 11a strongly suppressed
EGFRL858R/T790M (IC50 = 0.515 ± 0.011μM) relative to EGFRWT (IC50 = 0.913 ± 0.068μM). Furthermore, molecular
docking studies demonstrated its strong binding contacts with the EGFRT790M enzyme through hydrogen
bonds and other non-bonded interactions.

Conclusion:

Taken together, these results indicate that the hybrid of quinoline and anilinopyrimidine 11a, could
be a potential inhibitor of EGFRT790M in NSCLC, which warrants further in-depth studies.
3D planiranje terapije lica – prikaz slučaja
Authors: Dekanić Ana Maria , Cerović Robert , Munjiza Ruth , Mady Maričić Barbara , Volf Renata
Published: March 2020

Cilj: Prikazati kako je uporabom suvremenih tehnologija omogućena 3D virtualna priprema i praćenje pacijenta prije, tijekom i nakon zahvata. Prikaz slučaja: Prikazan je pacijent s pravom progenijom, dakle skeletnom klasom III, obrnutim prijeklopom, zbijenošću zuba i konkavnim profilom kojemu su ortodontskom terapijom zuba pripremljeni za ortognatski kirurški zahvat koji je potom izvršen na gornjoj i donjoj čeljusti (LeFort I i BSSO). Dijagnostički postupak i evaluacija ishoda, osim standardnog protokola, uključivao je i pripremu za 3D virtualno planiranje. Učinjeno je skeniranje studijskih modela, CBCT snimak, 3D fotografije i analize pomoću 3D softvera. Kirurške vodilice napravljene su 3D printerom. Zaključak: Korištenjem suvremenih tehnologija i 3D virtualnog planiranja olakšan je i skraćen postupak planiranja ishoda i praćenje rezultata terapije uz veliku preciznost u izradi kirurških vodilica.
Opstrukcija dišnog puta uzrokovana laringokelom – prikaz slučaja
Authors: Miljas Luciana , Braut Tamara , Vukelić Jelena , Marijić Blažen , Milotić Mario
Published: March 2020

Cilj: Cilj rada je prikazati slučaj s višestrukim rijetkim komplikacijama laringokele. Prikaz slučaja: Prikazujemo slučaj 71-godišnje pacijentice s višestrukim komplikacijama laringokele. Pacijentica se prvi put javlja u kliniku za otorinolaringologiju i kirurgiju glave i vrata KBC-a Rijeka u veljači 2008. te biva podvrgnuta traheotomiji zbog epizode akutnog epiglotitisa. Godinu dana kasnije pacijentica se vraća na kliniku zbog odinofagije i disfagije. Postavlja se dijagnoza parafaringealnog apscesa te se on incidira i drenira. Godine 2010. pacijentica biva ponovno hospitalizirana zbog mase na vratu te se započinje s dijagnostikom. Nekoliko dana kasnije pacijentica se otpušta, ali se ubrzo samoinicijativno vraća na kliniku dispnoična. Učini se magnetska rezonancija vrata i postavi se dijagnoza laringokele koju se liječi kirurškom ekstirpacijom. Zaključak: Naša pacijentica prezentira se nizom zanimljivih i vrlo rijetkih komplikacija koje čine ovaj slučaj vrijednim prikazivanja. Pretpostavljamo da je pacijentica u ovom slučaju laringokelu razvila zbog traheotomije 2008. godine. Pretražujući literaturu, pronašli smo samo jedan slučaj koji povezuje traheotomiju s nastajanjem laringokele. Nadalje, laringokela je pacijentici uzrokovala po život opasnu opstrukciju dišnog puta, što je samo po sebi vrlo rijetka komplikacija. Možemo pretpostaviti da bi ranija dijagnoza i adekvatno liječenje omogućilo ovoj pacijentici da izbjegne sve komplikacije te se nadamo kako će ovaj slučaj podići svijest o laringokeli i smanjiti incidenciju komplikacija u budućnosti.
Nedostaci standardnog radiograma pri obradi ozljede vratne kralježnice u visokorizičnih pacijenata – prikazi slučajeva
Authors: Petrić Tamara , Materljan Maja , Protić Alen
Published: March 2020

Cilj: Istaknuti nedostatke standardnog radiograma pri obradi ozljede vratne kralježnice, posebice u visokorizičnih pacijenata u kojih je zbog patoanatomskih promjena ova dijagnostička pretraga otežana (ankilozantni spondilitis, stenoza spinalnog kanala i osteoporoza). Prikaz slučaja: Prikazali smo obradu ozljede vratne kralježnice u dva visokorizična pacijenta (osteoporotičnog te pacijenta s ankilozantnim spondilitisom). Prijelomi vratne kralježnice češći su u te dvije skupine i mogu nastati blažim padom. Mehanizam ozljede je u oba slučaja bio pad sa svoje visine. Inicijalni neurološki pregled kod oba pacijenta bio je uredan, tek je odgođeni pregled ukazao na neurološki deficit: u prvom slučaju nekoliko sati nakon ozljede, a u drugom slučaju devet dana nakon ozljede. U oba slučaja ozljeda vratne kralježnice bila je dijagnosticirana naknadno učinjenim MSCT-om vratne kralježnice. Zaključak: S obzirom na potencijalno opasne posljedice neprepoznate i neliječene ozljede vratne kralježnice, htjeli smo naglasiti potrebu za daljnjim istraživanjem i kreiranjem adekvatnog algoritma za visokorizične pacijente. Zbog svoje visoke specifičnosti i senzitivnosti, MSCT bi trebao biti metoda izbora pri dijagnosticiranju ozlijede vratne kralježnice u toj grupi pacijenata.
The early functional results after total ankle replacement
Authors: Radonić Barbara , Šestan Branko , Baričić Mirjana , Legović Dalen , Rakovac Ivan , Šantić Veljko
Published: March 2020

Cilj: Totalna endoproteza (TEP) gležnja ugrađuje se kod uznapredovalog stadija osteoartritisa gležnja s ciljem održavanja bezbolnog, stabilnog i pokretljivog zgloba. Cilj je ovog istraživanja bio analizirati rane funkcionalne rezultate nakon ugradnje TEP-a gležnja. Ispitanici i metode: Ispitana je skupina od 18 pacijenata s ugrađenim TEP-om gležnja. Prosječna dob pacijenata bila je 62 godine. Kod 12 pacijenata radilo se o sekundarnom obliku osteoartritisa gležnja na osnovi prethodne ozljede, a kod 6 o primarnom osteoartritisu gležnja. Svi su pacijenti kirurški liječeni u Klinici za ortopediju Lovran u razdoblju od 2013. do 2016. godine, a ispitivanje je provedeno uz pomoć anketnog lista institucije American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), vizualne analogne ljestvice (VAS) bola i goniometra. Rezultati: Dobiveni rezultati pokazali su značajno poboljšanje u funkcionalnom stanju gležnja, kao i u njegovoj pokretljivosti. Prijeoperacijski rezultati AAOS-ova anketnog lista iznosili su 30,34, dok su poslijeoperacijski iznosili 70,01 bodova. Prosječni je opseg pokreta gležnja prije operacije bio 16,11°, a poslijeoperacijski 30,26°. Također se pokazalo da je intenzitet bola nakon ugradnje endoproteze gležnja značajno manji. Prijeoperacijski je prosječna razina VAS-a bola bila 7,83, a poslijeoperacijski 3,5. Zaključak: Rezultati ove studije potvrđuju uspješnost ugradnje TEP-a gležnja u pacijenata s uznapredovalim osteoartritisom gležnja.
Рекомбинация носителей заряда через возбужденные уровни бора в кремнии при низких температурах
Authors: Муратов Т.Т.
Published: March 2020

In present article was studied the process of recombination of charged carriers across shallow impurity boron’s centers in silicon at low temperatures. Major attention was devoted to theoretical interpretation of empiric temperature dependencies of lifetime τ(T) of the carriers in the temperature range of (1.7 – 4.2) K under doped impurity concentrations nB ≥ 1014 sm – 3 with compensation ≤ 10% (nD + nA ≤ 1013 sm – 3). It is enough exactly determined that shallow excited level with binding energy 5 meV (3s-state) is almost resonant. The approximate formulas for the coefficient of resonant capture are obtained. Influence of weak magnetic field (10 – 100) Gs on value of the coefficient of resonant capture is analyzed, as for showed that weak magnetic field (in order 10 Gs) loosely decreases of carrier’s lifetime in such a way to stimulate a process of their recombination.
Экситонные эффекты и примесно-дефектное излучение в GaAs/AlGaAs-структурах, применяемых для изготовления детекторов среднего ИК-диапазона
Authors: Кривобок В.С. , Литвинов Д.А. , Николаев С.Н. , Онищенко Е.Е. , Пашкеев Д.А. , Чернопицский М.А. , Григорьева Л.Н.
Published: March 2020

AbstractA series of undoped GaAs/Al_ x Ga_1 –_ x As multiple quantum well heterostructures, whose doped analogs are used for the production of photodetectors operating in the spectral range 8–12 μm, is fabricated by molecular-beam epitaxy. For the heterostructures, the spectral position of absorption lines corresponding to the allowed transitions between quantum-confined electron and hole levels in GaAs layers is established. The influence of impurity–defect states on the luminescence and absorption spectra of quantum wells is studied. The excitonic corrections for the allowed transitions are determined in relation to the quantum-well width and the aluminum content in the barrier layers. The role of excitonic effects in restoring the structure of single-electron states from interband-absorption spectra (luminescence-excitation spectra) and the relationship between these states and the working region of IR photodetectors based on GaAs/Al_ x Ga_1 –_ x As quantum wells are discussed.
Металл-усиленное фотохимическое травление N- и Ga-полярных эпитаксиальных слоев GaN
Authors: Мохов Д.В. , Березовская Т.Н. , Никитина Е.В. , Шубина К.Ю. , Мизеров А.М. , Буравлев А.Д.
Published: March 2020

The results of the study of photochemical etching without the application of external voltage, structures with Ga- and N-polar GaN layers synthesized by molecular beam epitaxy with plasma activation of nitrogen are presented. It is shown that the etching rate of layers with different polarities is very different. In this case, the use of gold-based masks for etching of GaN layers instead of titanium also makes it possible to increase the etching rate of the layers.
Твердые растворы In-=SUB=-x-=/SUB=-Al-=SUB=-1-x-=/SUB=-N: проблемы стабильности состава
Authors: Брудный В.Н. , Вилисова М.Д. , Великовский Л.Э.
Published: March 2020

Abstract. The phase diagrams and growth conditions of InxAl1-xN solid solutions by magnetron sputtering, molecular beam and gas-phase epitaxy from organometallic compounds are analyzed. Mutual equilibrium solubility in a wide range of compositions of thick layers of this solution is close to zero. Moreover, the presence of elastic misfit stresses for thin InxAl1-xN films narrows the unstable mixing region. Optimization of the growing conditions makes it possible to obtain the homogeneous high-quality InxAl1-xN layers suitable for the production of a barrier layer in an InAlN/GaN HEMT.