bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Personal Safety Measures Adopted by Medical Practioners During the COVID 19 Pandemic
Authors: Kukreja Hemapriya.L , Tigga Maureen Prativa , Wali Neha , Prathap.T  , R Anil Kumar M , Chandran Shreya
Published: October 2020

Introduction: A novel coronavirus (now termed as SARS-CoV 2) was detected as causative agent of severe pneumonia in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December 2019. Declared by the WHO as a global pandemic in March 2020, it has created profound changes in global economy and healthcare systems. COVID-19 is transmitted through close contact and droplets with healthcare professionals at significant risk of acquiring the infection, thus requiring to protect themselves. Various measures help in protecting the professionals from contracting the infection. These include hand hygiene, N95 masks, goggles, gloves, gowns, face shields, coveralls and frequent sanitization. Healthcare professionals need to be educated in these various modalities with proper protocols and policies enacted by the health institutions. This study evaluates the knowledge, attitude and practice of various personal safety measures used by the healthcare professionals.Materials and Methods: After institution ethical committee approval, we conducted an online survey with a preformatted questionnaire consisting of multiple choice questions which assessed the knowledge, attitude and practices adopted by the various healthcare professionals. The survey was done between 1st - 30th of June 2020 and a total of 536 responses were analyzed. Results: 58.4% of the participants were females, 66% of the healthcare workers worked at a private hospital/ private medical college with 82.1% being located in urban areas. Of the 536 respondents, 90.1% practiced bathing immediately after returning home and 86.8% sanitized their accessories. 86.9% of the professionals used frequent sanitization with use of mask and gloves whereas only 12.3% used full personal protective equipment. 58% of females had used Hydroxychloroquine as prophylaxis whereas only 41% of males used it ( statistically significant, p = 0.005 ). Healthcare workers in younger age group ( 23-40 years ) were more likely to maintain distance with family members and government doctors were significantly more likely to do so ( p< 0.001 ) as compared to private practitioners. Conclusion: With the medical professionals being at high risk for contracting the infection, the need to provide the healthcare professionals with adequate personal protective equipment is of utmost importance. There is also a need to maintain the well-being of the healthcare professionals as they are the weakest link in the chain.
Predicting recurrence of non-small cell lung cancer based on mean computed tomography value
Authors: Tamura Masaya , Matsumoto Isao , Tanaka Yusuke , Saito Daisuke , Yoshida Shuhei , Takata Munehisa
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to assess the ability of using mean computed tomography (mCT) values to predict non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumor recurrence. MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on 494 patients with stage IA NSCLC. Receiver operating characteristics analysis was used to assess the ability to use mCT value, C/T ratio, tumor size, and SUV to predict tumor recurrence. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent variables for the prediction of tumor recurrence. ResultsThe m-CT values were -213.7 ± 10.2 Hounsfield Units (HU) for the recurrence group and -594.1 ± 11.6 HU for the non-recurrence group (p < 0.0001). The tumor recurrence group was strongly associated with a high CT attenuation value, high C/T ratio, large solid tumor size, and SUV. The diagnostic value of mCT value was more accurate than the C/T ratio, excluding the pure ground-glass opacity and pure solid (0<C/T ratio<100) groups. The SUV and mCT are independent predictive factors of tumor recurrence. ConclusionsThe evaluation of mCT values was useful for predicting recurrence after the limited resection of small-sized NSCLC, and may potentially contribute to the selection of suitable treatment strategies.
Diabetes, even newly defined by HbA1c testing, is associated with an increased risk of in-hospital death in adults with COVID-19
Authors: Liu Ye , Lu Ran , Wang Junhong , Cheng Qin , Zhang Ruitao , Zhang Shuisheng , Le Yunyi , Wang Haining , Xiao Wenhua , Gao Hongwei , Zeng Lin , Hong Tianpei
Published: October 2020

Aims: Diabetes is associated with poor coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes. However, little is known on the impact of undiagnosed diabetes in the COVID-19 population. We investigated whether diabetes, particularly undiagnosed diabetes, was associated with an increased risk of death from COVID-19.Methods: This retrospective study identified adult patients with COVID-19 admitted to Tongji Hospital (Wuhan) from January 28 to April 4, 2020. Diabetes was determined using patients’ past history (diagnosed) or was newly defined if the hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level at admission was 6.5% (≥ 48 mmol/mol) (undiagnosed). The in-hospital mortality rate and survival probability were compared between the non-diabetes and diabetes (overall, diagnosed, and undiagnosed diabetes) groups. Risk factors of mortality were explored using Cox regression analysis. Results: Of 373 patients, 233 were included in the final analysis, among whom 80 (34.3%) had diabetes: 44 (55.0%) reported a diabetes history, and 36 (45.0%) were newly defined as having undiagnosed diabetes by HbA1c testing at admission. Compared with the non-diabetes group, the overall diabetes group had a significantly increased mortality rate (22.5% vs 5.9%, p <0.001). Moreover, the overall, diagnosed, and undiagnosed diabetes groups displayed lower survival probability in the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis (all p <0.01). Using multivariate Cox regression, diabetes, age, quick sequential organ failure assessment score, and D-dimer ≥ 1.0 mg/mL were identified as independent risk factors for in-hospital death in patients with COVID-19.Conclusions: The prevalence of undiagnosed pre-existing diabetes among patients with COVID-19 is high in China. Diabetes, even newly defined by HbA1c testing at admission, is associated with increased mortality in patients with COVID-19. Screening for undiagnosed diabetes by HbA1c measurement should be considered in adult Chinese inpatients with COVID-19.
Annual Trend of Neonatal Mortality and Its Underlying Causes: Populational Study – SÃO Paulo State, Brazil, 2004-2013
Authors: Guinsburg Ruth , Sanudo Adriana , Kiffer Carlos Roberto V , Marinonio Ana Silvia S , Costa-Nobre Daniela T , Areco Kelsy N , Kawakami Mandira D , Miyoshi Milton H , Bandiera-Paiva Paulo , Balda Rita de Cassia X , Konstantyner Tulio , Morais Liliam C , Freitas Rosa M , Teixeira Monica L , Waldvogel Bernadette , Almeida Maria Fernanda B
Published: October 2020

Background: Populational studies analyzing neonatal deaths in middle-income countries may contribute to design interventions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, established by United Nations. This study goal is to analyze the annual trend of neonatal mortality in São Paulo State, Brazil, over a 10-year period and its underlying causes and to identify maternal and neonatal characteristics at birth associated with neonatal mortality.Method: Populational study of births and deaths from 0-27 days between 2004-2013 in São Paulo State, Brazil. The annual trend of neonatal mortality rate according to gestational age was analyzed by Poisson or by Negative Binomial Regression models. Basic causes of neonatal death were classified according to ICD-10. Association of maternal demographic variables (block 1), prenatal and delivery care variables (block 2), and neonatal characteristics at birth (block 3) with neonatal mortality was evaluated by Poisson regression analysis adjusted by year of birth. Results: Among 6,056,883 live births in São Paulo State during the study period, 48,309 died from 0-27 days (neonatal mortality rate: 8.0/1,000 live births). For the whole group and for infants with gestational age 22-27, 28-31, 32-36, 37-41 and ≥42 weeks, reduction of neonatal mortality rate was, respectively, 18%, 15%, 38%, 53%, 31%, and 58%. Median time until 50% of deaths occurred was 3 days. Main basic causes of death were respiratory disorders (25%), malformations (20%), infections (17%), and perinatal asphyxia (7%). Variables independently associated with neonatal deaths were maternal schooling, prenatal care, parity, newborn sex, 1st minute Apgar, and malformations. Cesarean delivery, compared to vaginal, was protective against neonatal mortality for infants at 22-31 weeks, but it was a risk factor for those with 32-41 weeks.Conclusion: Despite the significant decrease in neonatal mortality rate over the 10-year period in São Paulo State, improved access to qualified health care is needed in order to avoid preventable neonatal deaths and increase survival of infants that need more complex levels of assistance.
Safety and Accuracy of Suction Rectal Biopsy in Preterm Infants
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Huang Jinshi , Chen Yongwei , Yang Shen , Gu Yichao , Hua Kaiyun , Zhao Yong
Published: October 2020

Purpose: Little attention were paid in the diagnosis of preterm infants with Hirschsprung disease (HD) in most pediatric surgeons. We aimed to explore the safety and accuracy of suction rectal biopsy (SRB) in preterm infants.Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on 45 preterm patients who underwent SRB from 2015 to 2019 in our hospital. We collected the clinical characteristics and pathology results of the patients, and followed up. The sensitivity and specificity of SRB for HD diagnosis were calculated.Results: The median gestational age of the patients was 35 weeks (range: 28.9 to 36.9 weeks) while the median gestational age at biopsy was 38.6 weeks (range: 33.4 to 60.0 weeks), and the median weight was 2790 g (range: 1580 to 4100 g). Fifteen cases (33.3%) were positive for HD which were confirmed after the pull-through surgery. The ganglion cells presented on 30 cases. And the diagnosis of HD was excluded in 29 patients after discharge follow-up. The sensitivity was supposed to be 93.7%-100% and specificity was 100%. Among the patients whose biopsy age is < 37 weeks (10 cases) or biopsy weight is < 2000 g (5 cases), no complications occurred after SRB.Conclusion: SRB is safe and accurate in late preterm infants.
Research Priorities for Rare Neurological Diseases: A Representative View of Patient Representatives and Health Care Professionals From the European Reference Network for Rare Neurological Diseases
Authors: Post Annemarie , Klockgether Thomas , Landwehrmeyer G. Bernhard , Pandolfo Massimo , Arnesen Astri , Reinhard Carola , Graessner Holm
Published: October 2020

Background: Patient involvement in research increases the impact of research and the likelihood of adoption in clinical practice. A first step is to know which research themes are important for patients. We distributed a survey on research priorities to ERN-RND members, both patient representatives and health care professionals, asking them to prioritize five research themes for rare neurological diseases on a scale ranging from 1 (most important) to 5 (least important). A follow-up e-mail interview was conducted with patient representatives and professionals to assess potential reasons for differences in opinions between these two groups.Results: In total, 156 responses were analysed: 61 from professionals and 95 from patient representatives. They covered all ERN-RND disease groups and came from 20 different EU countries. Almost half of the respondents considered ‘Developing therapies and preventive strategies’ the most important research theme. In particular, patient representatives prioritized this theme more often than professionals, while professionals prioritized ‘Disease mechanisms and models’. Patient representatives indicated that therapies and prevention were of the utmost importance to them, because their lives are often heavily impacted by the disease and their main goal is to relief the burden of disease. Professionals indicated that investigating disease mechanisms will lead to more knowledge and is indispensable for finding new treatments.Conclusions: Patients and professionals have different opinions on which research theme should have priority. A qualitative follow-up shows that they respect each others’ view points. Different stakeholders involved in research should be aware of their differences in research theme priority. Explaining these differences to each other leads to more understanding, and could improve patient engagement in research.
Reconstruction of Paprosky type III Acetabular Defects by the Three-dimensional Printed Porous Augment: Techniques and Clinical Outcomes of 18 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Fu Jun , Ni Ming , Li Xiang , Chai Wei , Hao Libo , Zhou Yonggang , Zhang Guoqiang , Chen Jiying
Published: October 2020

Background and Purpose: A major challenge posed by primary and revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the management of severe acetabular bone defect. Previous surgical techniques have certain limitations in the anatomical reconstruction and accurate match of severe acetabular defects. Until now, reports are scanty on the clinical outcomes of acetabular reconstruction by the three-dimensional (3D) printed porous augments in bone defect patients. This study reported the clinical outcomes of reconstruction of Paprosky type III acetabular defects by 3D printed porous augments.Methods: 18 patients with Paprosky type III acetabular defects receiving reconstructive surgery by 3D printed porous augments were included in current study. Their data, including general information, intra-operative findings, imaging results, functional scores and complications were retrospectively analyzed.Results: The mean follow-up time lasted 33.3 ± 2.0 (24-56) months. The average limb-length discrepancy (LLD) was 31.7 ± 4.2 (3-59) mm preoperatively, 7.7 ± 1.4 (1-21) mm postoperatively (p<0.0001) and 7.5 ± 1.2 (0-18) mm at the latest follow-up. The mean vertical position of hip center of rotation (HCOR) from the inter teardrop line changed from preoperative 50.7 ± 3.9 (23.3-75.3) mm to postoperative 22.9 ± 1.9 (10.1-40.3) mm (p<0.0001), with the latest follow-up revealing an HCOR of 22.3 ± 1.7 (11.0-40.5) mm. Follow-up study showed that no hip had radiolucencies and radiological loosening of the acetabular components and augment. The average HHS improved from 40.3 ± 4.5 (10.5-71) before operation to 88.4 ± 1.9 (75-97) at the last follow-up (p<0.0001). Moreover, follow-up exhibited that no periprosthetic joint infection, hip dislocation, fracture and re-revision occurred. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of Paprosky type III acetabular defect with 3D printed porous augment was simple, achieved good match between porous augment and the defect bone surface and the acetabular component, ideally restored LLD and HCOR after operation, significantly improved HHS score and attained good early clinical outcomes. It is a promising personalized solution for patients with severe acetabular bone defect.
Septin4 Aggravates Hypoxia-Induced Cardiomyocytes Injury by Promoting HIF-1α Ubiquitination and Degradation through VHL
Authors: Wu Shaojun , Zhang Ying , You Shilong , Lu Sien , Zhang Naijin , Sun Yingxian
Published: October 2020

Backgrounds: Myocardial ischemia, characterized by insufficient nutrients and oxygen supply, is the most common cause of ischemic heart disease. Hypoxia-induced cardiomyocytes injury is the pathogenic feature of myocardial ischemia. Although previous studies have reported that the proapoptotic protein Septin4 contributes to prevent some cancers by promoting tumor cells apoptosis mainly through X-linked inhibitors of apoptosis (XIAPs), little is known its role in hypoxia-induced cardiomyocytes injury and its other new interacting partner. Results: In the current study, Septin4 is found to be involved in cardiomyocytes injury to hypoxia. The overexpression of Septin4 significantly aggravated hypoxic cardiomyocytes apoptosis assessed by cell viability assay and flow cytometry analysis. Mechanistically, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) is confirmed as a novel protein mainly binding with GTPase domain of Septin4 by co-immunoprecipitation. Additionally, we found that the protective factor HIF-1α is down-regulated by Septin4 and the underlying mechanism is the von Hippel-Lindau protein (VHL)-mediated ubiquitin-proteasome degradation. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Septin4 aggravates hypoxia-induced cardiomyocytes injury by promoting HIF-1α ubiquitination and degradation by targeting to VHL, which may be beneficial to provide effective strategies for clinical treatment of myocardial ischemia and ischemic heart disease.
Genomic Variations in SARS-CoV-2 Strains at the Target Sequences of Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests
Authors: Cao Canhui , Yu Ruidi , Zeng Shaoqing , Liu Dan , Gong Wenjian , Li Ruyuan , Wang Siyuan , Yuan Yuan , Chi Jianhua , Liu Jiahao , Yu Yang , Jiao Xiaofei , Cai Guangyao , Jin Ning , Ye Fei , Gao Qinglei
Published: October 2020

Background: Nucleic acid amplification is the main method used to detect infections of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, the false-negative rate of nucleic acid tests cannot be ignored. Methods: Herein, we demonstrated genomic variations at the target sequences for the tests and the geographical distribution of the variations across countries by analyzing the whole-genome sequencing data of SARS-CoV-2 strains from the 2019 Novel Coronavirus Resource (2019nCoVR) database. Results: Among the 21 pairs of primer sequences in regions ORF1ab, S, E, and N, the total length of primer and probe target sequences was 938bp, with 131(13.97%) variant loci in 2415 (38.96%) isolates. Primer targets in the N region contained the most variations that were distributed among the most isolates, and the E region contained the least. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were the most frequent variation, with C to T transitions being detected in the most variant loci. G to A transitions and G to C transversions were the most common and had the highest isolate density. Genomic variations at the three mutation sites N: 28881, N: 28882, and N: 28883 were the most commonly detected, including in 608 SARS-CoV-2 strains from 33 countries, especially in the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Belgium. Conclusions: Our work comprehensively analyzed genomic variations on the target sequences of the nucleic acid amplification tests, offering evidence to optimize primer and probe target sequence selection, thereby improving the performance of the SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic test.
Chenopodium album is a weed host of Meloidogyne incognita (Nematoda: Meloidogynidae) in Peru
Authors: Gómez-Chatata Jorge Airton , Casa-Ruiz Teodocia Gloria , Tamo-Zegarra Juan José , Bellé Cristiano
Published: October 2020

Chenopodium album plants showing symptoms caused by root-knot nematodes were detected in the La Joya, Arequipa, Peru. Based on the morphological, esterase phenotypes, and molecular analyses of the mitochondrial DNA region between the cytochome oxidase subunit II and 16S rRNA genes (mtDNA) and species-specific characterized amplified region, the causal agent of the observed symptoms was identified as Meloidogyne incognita. Pathogenicity was confirmed by fulfilling a modified version of Koch’s postulates. To our knowledge, this is the first report of M. incognita parasitizing C. album in Peru.
Derechos Humanos como factor para la humanización de la ciencia jurídica.
Authors: Villalba Bernié Pablo Darío
Published: October 2020

El artículo de reflexión abordado destaca la transformación de las ciencias jurídicas que en las últimas décadas ha sido irradiado por el factor de humanización del derecho, que indica el derrotero a seguir en pos de la modernidad. En un avance gradual, pero avasallante, se han venido imponiendo los criterios hermenéuticos a la luz de las doctrinas de los derechos humanos, que conducen a una mutación significativa de la juridicidad universal. En América Latina el impacto es aún mayor como resultado de la incidencia del SistemaInteramericano de Derechos Humanos y de la doctrina del control de convencionalidad, marcando un novel sendero al ámbito jurídico. La idea de este trabajo es apuntalar los hitos orientadores que deberán analizarse para comprender las razones, con el fin de generar elrescate del ser humano como centro de la protección jurídica.Palabras clavesDerechos humanos, humanización, ius filosofía, modernidad jurídica, paradigmas.
Entre la justicia y la paz: el deber de juzgar en el marco de la Justicia Transicional Colombiana
Authors: Rosas Gutiérrez Cristhian Andrey
Published: October 2020

El derecho humano a una paz justa, sostenible y duradera es fundamental y trascendental. Es por esto que es insoslayable dejar de lado la aparente tensión existente entre el logro de una paz estable, justa y duradera, con las exigencias de justicia por parte de las víctimas de verdad, justicia y reparación. Ahora, en el presente artículo se pretende abordar el tema del deber internacional del Estado Colombianode investigar, juzgar y sancionar las graves violaciones de derechos humanos y compatibilizarlo con el método de selectividad y priorización de casos, aplicando metodológicamente una perspectiva deductiva desde los documentos previstos inicialmente, en el Marco Jurídico para la Paz, como también de los distintos escenarios sobre los cuales se pretende impartir justicia por parte del Estado, como es el caso de la Jurisdicción Especial para la Paz (JEP) que es el componente de justicia del Sistema Integral de Verdad, Justicia, Reparación y no Repetición (SIVJRNR), creado con base en el Acuerdo Final para la terminación del conflicto y la construcción de una paz estable y duradera entre el Gobierno Nacional de Colombia y las FARC-EP (Alto Comisionado para la paz, 2016), fruto de las negociaciones de paz realizadas en la Habana, Cuba.
De esta manera, se estudia teoréticamente a manera de exposición el concepto de justicia transicional, sus modelos y enfoques. Se toman, como es debido, experiencias de carácter internacional en un análisis comparativo desde la perspectiva constitucional; de esta forma, se observan los procesos jurídicos, que nos sitúan frente a los derechos humanos y, en particular, frente a los derechos de las víctimas, que en el marco de la investigación propia de delitos de guerra interna –partiendo de la premisa de centrar esfuerzos en la sanción de los máximos responsables de los crímenes más graves–, bajo los criterios de selección y priorización, defendiendo la tesis de definir principios orientadores y un método de ponderación jurídica en su aplicación como la mejor opción para garantizar los derechos de las víctimas y el tan anhelado derecho a la paz. Los resultados se conectan con la política y la práctica jurídica, dada la vigencia del estudio del tema de la justicia transicional. No se pretenden dar absolutos sobre el tema, sino lograr un acercamiento desde la academia a los procesos judiciales propios de la terminación del conflicto.
Palabras Claves:Investigación sobre la paz, Derecho a la Justicia, Consolidación de la Paz, Solución de conflictos, Derecho a vivir en paz, Coexistencia Pacífica.
Pluralismo jurídico en el departamento del Putumayo.
Authors: Saidiza Peñuela Juan Pablo
Published: October 2020

Se presenta un análisis sobre el pluralismo jurídico en el departamento del Putumayo a partir de nuevas postulaciones teóricas basadas en la crisis del derecho moderno y su incapacidad para resolver la totalidad de los litigios. Este escrito está sustentado en un estudio de caso con el pueblo indígena murui muina, con quienes se ha establecido una relación de trabajo e investigación para fortalecer las formas de administración de justicia en espacios locales, que impliquen una mirada constructiva más apropiada en la construcción de la autonomía de los pueblos indígenas en el sur del país.
Palabras clave:Pluralismo jurídico, Justicia propia indígena, Barreras de acceso a la justicia, Interculturalidad, Norma social.
Política Editorial
Authors: Espinel Torres Yeilor Rafael , Camelo Zamudio Jenny Astrid , Silva Serna Juan Sebastián , Molina Orjuela Douglas Eduardo , Rojas Alonso Valeria , Reyes Guzmán Sebastián Camilo
Published: October 2020

La Revista Criterios es un proyecto humano pensado para nacer y madurar de acuerdo con el ritmo cambiante de los tiempos. Aspiramos a que nuevas plumas envíen sus disertaciones, que nos critiquen, que propongan, que vean en nuestras páginas la posibilidad de un dialogo académico genuino y de gran altura.
Do socio-economic factors impede the engagement in online banking transactions? Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Bashiru Jibril Abdul , Adu Kwarteng Michael , Chovancová Miloslava , Bode Jurgen
Published: October 2020

Researchers have long pondered on the online banking transaction adoption. Some of these studies focus primarily on the motivating factors that affect customers’ intention to adopt/accept these services (technologies). However, research into the constraining factors, in particular socio-economic factors, barely exist in the literature, especially in the context of sub-Saharan Africa. Against this background, the paper seeks to fill in this gap by: (1) assessing the socio-economic factors impeding the engagement of e-banking transactions among retail bank customers in Ghana, and (2) examining the moderating effect of ‘customer experience of Internet’ on the identified factors that inhibit the engagement in online banking in Ghana. The paper used a quantitative research approach to obtain data from two leading Ghanaian banks. Out of the 450 questionnaires distributed, 393 were valid for analysis. Data were analyzed with the aid of PLS-SEM (partial least squares and structural equation modeling). Findings revealed that perceived knowledge gap and the price of digital devices were directly important to the intention to disembark on e-banking transactions among Ghanaian bank customers. Whilst customer experience (frequent use of the Internet), as a moderator variable, has a significant effect on the interaction between perceived knowledge gap and the intent to disembark on e-banking transactions; and finance charges and the intent to disembark on e-banking transactions. Study implications and directions for future research are discussed in the paper.
AcknowledgmentThis work was supported by the Internal Grant Agency of Tomas Bata University under the Projects no. IGA/FaME/2019/008 and IGA/FaME/2020/002. The authors would like to extend their appreciation to Prof. Boris Popesko (Vice-dean for Research and Business Liaison) at the Faculty of Management and Economics for facilitating the financial readiness of this project.
An Open Letter to All Physicists and Everyone With Common Sense
Authors: Velgas Lev Borisovich , Iavolinskaia Liya Lvovna
Published: October 2020

The article summarizes the results of author's research in the field of astronomy and physics. Researchers have identified a personal view of the future development of such a science as astronomy.
Health Protection Technologies as a Necessary Part of Every English Lesson
Authors: Kovaleva Yana Feliksovna , Basygarina Elena Valentinovna
Published: October 2020

The article is devoted to the problems of preserving the health of the school generation, preserving and developing mental and physical qualities, optimal efficiency and social activity at school and at home. The authors consider the use of health-protecting technologies in English lessons.
Clinical Therapy of Patients Contaminated with Polonium or Plutonium
Authors: Aaseth Jan , Nurchi Valeria Marina , Andersen Ole
Published: October 2020

Although most of the harmful radionuclides are of anthropogenic origin and released
from military or industrial processes, radioactive substances, such as uranium, also
occur naturally in the environment. Low standards of care at nuclear facilities can lead
to the contamination of employees with radionuclides due to inhalation of gases or dust
or contamination of skin or wounds. Various sources for radionuclide exposure may present
concerns for radioactive polonium or plutonium exposure, for instance, terrorist actions
on the infrastructure, such as on drinking water basins. Early health effects after extensive
radiation exposure may be vomiting, headaches, and fatigue, followed by bone
marrow depression, fever, and diarrhea. The main purpose of radionuclide mobilization
is to minimize the radiation dose. Since some of the important radionuclides, such as
polonium and plutonium, have very long biological half-times after their deposition in
bone, liver or kidneys, rapid initiation of chelation treatment is usually imperative after a
contamination event. The antidote DMPS (dimercapto-propanesulfonate) is considered
the drug of choice for polonium decorporation. DTPA (diethylenetriamine pentaacetate)
is a potent chelator especially approved for radionuclide mobilization, including polonium
and other actinides. Other chelators and drugs are under investigation as potential chelators
of transuranic elements.
Ferulic Acid Activity in Topical Formulations: Technological and Scientific Prospecting
Authors: Cavalcanti Gabriela R. , Duarte Fernanda I.C. , Converti Attilio , de Lima Ádley A.N.
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Ferulic acid is a phenolic compound widely distributed in monocotyledons, with several
applications, especially in pharmaceutical and dermo-cosmetic industries. It has proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
activities, among others, which are mainly ascribed to its molecular structure. The main factor that can lead to serious skin
damages like inflammation, dryness, wrinkles, and cancer is the exposure to UV radiation that is responsible for an increased
level of radical oxygen species.

Objective:

This review aims to evaluate the application of ferulic acid in topical formulations and the technologies used to
enhance its bioavailability and stability, as well as to get a clearer picture of its effects by in vivo and in vitro studies.

Methods:

It covers technological publications in the WIPO, EPO, INPI, and USPTO databases and scientific publications
in the PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Science Direct databases, exploring the trend and application of this compound by
country and year of publication.

Results:

Both the scientific and technological analysis showed the importance and tendency in the association of the Ferulic
Acid and other vitamins and actives. The synergic effect certainly provides a better result, performance and stability of the
compounds. Witch cleared the great spectrum and applicability of the Ferulic Acid in topical formulations.

Conclusion:

The present literature survey revealed that ferulic acid exerts an important activity in several formulations for
topical application and improved stability and bioavailability when combined with new technologies and methods, showing
an open path to target the treatment of skin disorders.
Exploring the Mechanism of Swertia mussotii Franch. for Hepatoprotective Effects with iTRAQ LC-MS/MS
Authors: Yun Haixia , Wu Xinyu , Ding Yiwei , Xiong Wendou , Duan Xianglan , Gao Hui , Yang Yingzhong , Chen Zhi
Published: October 2020

Background and Objective:

A Tibetan traditional herb named Swertia mussotii Franch.,
also called “Zangyinchen” by the local people of the Qinghai-Tibet area, has been used to protect
the liver from injury for many years. However, the curative effect and molecular mechanism of the
herb have not been demonstrated clearly.

Materials and Methods:

In our study, serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase,
and total bilirubin levels were examined after S. mussotii Franch. treatment of the acute liver injury
on the carbon tetrachloride-induced rat model. Then, proteome analysis was conducted to explore
the potential mechanism of SMT for hepatoprotective effects after iTRAQLC-MS/MS analysis
(isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantification-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer
with tandem mass spectrometry).

Results:

Serum results showed that alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total
bilirubin levels of rats with acute liver injury were all improved with SMT treatment. Moreover,
proteome analysis suggested that, with S. mussotii Franch. treatment, the levels of lipid catabolic
process and lipid homeostasis were all enhanced. Furthermore, the results of protein-protein
interaction (PPI) analysis illustrated that the proteins assembled in PPI networks were found to be
significantly enriched in response to lipid, negative regulation of lipase activity, and in response to
lipopolysaccharides. Furthermore, the down-regulated MRP14 and MRP8 proteins were found to
be involved in the lipid metabolism, which may indicate the mechanism of SMT for the protection
of the liver from ALI induced by carbon tetrachloride.

Conclusion:

SMT herb could play a role in hepatoprotection and alleviating the acute liver injury
by impacting the lipid metabolism associated with the biological process.
The Influence of Diabetes Mellitus on Rotator Cuff Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lu Xiaomin , Sun He , Xu YiSheng , Cao Xuewei
Published: October 2020

Background:

Clinical outcomes after rotator cuff repair associated with diabetes
mellitus (DM) are generally favorable, but no study has attempted to establish the influence of DM
on outcomes after rotator cuff repair.

Purpose:

To conduct a meta-analysis of clinical studies evaluating patient outcomes between
people with DM and people without DM after rotator cuff repair.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis.

Methods:

A literature search of the Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases was
performed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and
Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Cohort studies and case-control studies about clinical outcomes after
rotator cuff repair comparing people with DM and people without DM were included. Statistical
analysis was performed with RevMan (v 5.3.3).

Results:

Nine clinical studies that met the inclusion criteria were identified and included a total of
314 patients treated with DM and 1092 patients without DM. The failure rate was significantly
higher in the DM group than in Non-DM group (23.97% compared with 16.60%, OR: 2.39; 95%
CI, 1.69–3.37; p < 0.001). The postoperative retear rate and showed a significant difference
between the two groups (24.5% and 13.7%; OR: 2.41; 95% CI, 1.57–3.71; p<0.001). The DM
group showed a higher rate of postoperative unhealed cuff than the Non-DM group(41.81% and
25.23%; OR: 2.14; 95% CI, 1.69–3.37; p=0.01).Postoperative Range of motion(ROM) at 12
months after surgery show a significant difference in the range of external rotation between two
groups (WMD: -6.02; 95% CI, -7.54 to -4.50; p<0.001). The preoperative Japanese Orthopaedic
Association (JOA) score, the comparison of pre- and post-operative JOA scores showed a
significant difference in the DM and Non-DM group(p<0.001). The postoperative JOA score, the
pre- and post-operative muscle strength, the pre- and post-operative visual analog scale (VAS)
show significant difference between the DM and Non-DM group(p<0.001).

The postoperative infection rates, the rates of postoperative shoulder stiffness, the preoperative
ROM, the postoperative ROM at 6 months, the postoperative ROM at 12 months of forward
flexion and abduction, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, the University of
California, Los Angeles scores, and the preoperative Constant-Murley scores show no significant
difference between the two groups.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis indicates that DM may be relative to a higher rate of shoulder
retear and cuff unhealing. However, patients with DM can achieve great clinical outcomes after
cuff repair, compared to patients without DM.
Antibacterial Potential of a Novel Peptide from the Consensus Sequence of Dermaseptin Related Peptides Secreted by Agalychnis annae
Authors: Ajingi Ya’u Sabo , Muhammad Auwal , Khunrae Pongsak , Rattanarojpong Triwit , Pattanapanyasat Kovit , Sutthibutpong Thana , Jongruja Nujarin
Published: October 2020

Background:

The consistently increasing reports of bacterial resistance and the reemergence of bacterial epidemics have inspired the health and scientific community to discover new molecules with antibacterial potential continuously. Frog-skin secretions constitute bioactive compounds essential for finding new biopharmaceuticals. The exact antibacterial characterization of dermaseptin related peptides derived from Agalychnis annae, is limited. The resemblance in their conserved and functionally linked genomes indicates an unprecedented opportunity to obtain novel bioactive compounds.

Objective:

In this study, we derived a novel peptide sequence and determined its antibacterial potentials.

Method:

Consensus sequence strategy was used to design the novel and active antibacterial peptide named 'AGAAN' from skin secretions of Agalychnis annae. The In-vitro activities of the novel peptide against some bacterial strains were investigated. Time kill studies, DNA retardation, cytotoxicity, beta-galactosidase, and molecular computational studies were conducted.

Results:

AGAAN inhibited P. aeruginosa, E. faecalis, and S. typhimurium at 20 µM concentration. E. coli and S. aureus were inhibited at 25 µM, and lastly, B. subtilis at 50 µM. Kinetics of inactivation against exponential and stationary growing bacteria was found to be rapid within 1-5 hours of peptide exposure, depending on time and concentration. The peptide displayed weak hemolytic activity between 0.01%–7.31% at the antibacterial concentrations. AGAAN efficiently induced bacterial membrane damage with subsequent cell lysis. The peptide's DNA binding shows that it also targets intracellular DNA by retarding its movement. Our in-silico molecular docking analysis displayed a strong affinity to the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane.

Conclusion:

AGAAN exhibits potential antibacterial properties that could be used to combat bacterial resistance.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Citrobacter freundii as Antibiofilm Agents with their Cytotoxic Effects on Human Cells
Authors: Shakhatreh Muhamad A.K. , Al-Rawi Omar F. , Swedan Samer F. , Alzoubi Karem H. , Khabour Omar F. , Al-Fandi Mohamed
Published: October 2020

Background:

Nanomaterials have recently been identified for their potential benefits in the areas of medicine
and pharmaceuticals. Among these nanomaterials, silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) have been widely utilized in the fields of
diagnostics, antimicrobials, and catalysis.

Objective:

To investigate the potential utility of Citrobacter freundii in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs), and
to determine the antimicrobial activities of the Ag-NPs produced.

Methods:

Aqueous Ag+ ions were reduced when exposed to C. freundii extract and sunlight, leading to formation of AgNPs. Qualitative microanalysis for the synthesized Ag-NPs was done using UV-vis spectrometry, energy dispersive X-ray
analysis (EDX), and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The hydrodynamic size and stability of the particles
were detected using dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis. The Ag-NPs’ anti-planktonic and anti-biofilm activities against
Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are two important skin and wound pathogens, were investigated. The cytotoxicity on human dermal fibroblast cell line was also determined.

Results:

Ag-NPs were spherical with a size range between 15 to 30 nm. Furthermore, Ag-NPs displayed potent bactericidal
activities against both S. aureus and P. aeruginosa and showed noticeable anti-biofilm activity against S. aureus biofilms.
Ag-NPs induced minor cytotoxic effects on human cells as indicated by a reduction of cell viability, a disruption of plasma
membrane integrity, and apoptosis induction.

Conclusion:

Ag-NPs generated in this study might be a future potential alternative to be used as antimicrobial agents in
pharmaceutical applications for wound and skin related infections.
Recent Advances in Transition Metal Mediated Synthetic Approaches to Quinoline Derivatives
Authors: Tabassum Rukhsana , Ashfaq Muhammad , Oku Hiroyuki
Published: October 2020

Synthesis of heterocyclic compounds containing quinoline scaffold gained significant
attention of organic chemists due to their importance as a therapeutic agent in the pharmaceutical
industry. Quinoline molecules exhibit extensive biological activities, a few of which are antiviral,
anti-inflammatory antibacterial, antifungal, antiproliferative, anthelmintic and anticonvulsant.
A variety of synthetic routes has been developed for construction compounds bearing the quinoline
nucleus due to its broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. This review describes recent development
in transition metal mediated synthetic protocols of these important heterocycles by the
formation of quinoline rings or by substitution of quinoline rings, including both modified conventional
name reactions and novel routes with highly functionalized quinoline products.
A New Series of Triazolothiadiazines as Potential Anticancer Agents for Targeted Therapy of Non-Small Cell Lung and Colorectal Cancers: Design, Synthesis, In silico and In vitro Studies Providing Mechanistic Insight into Their Anticancer Potencies
Authors: Sever Belgin , Altıntop Mehlika Dilek , Çiftçi Gülşen Akalın , Özdemir Ahmet
Published: October 2020

Background:

Targeted therapies acting on specific molecular targets in cancer cells with
better curative efficacy and lower toxicity have come into prominence for the management of nonsmall
cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). COX-2 stands out as a plausible target
for anticancer agents due to its pivotal role in tumor initiation, progression and invasion.

Objectives:

Due to the importance of triazolothiadiazine scaffold in targeted anticancer drug discovery,
the aim of this work is the design of new triazolothiadiazines as potential anticancer agents for
the targeted therapy of NSCLC and CRC.

Methods:

New triazolo[3,4-b]-1,3,4-thiadiazines (2a-g) were synthesized via the ring closure reactions
of 2-bromo-1-arylethanones with 4-amino-5-((5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)methyl)-2,4-
dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione (1), which was obtained via the solvent-free reaction of 5-
methoxy-2-methyl-3-indoleacetic acid with thiocarbohydrazide. MTT assay was performed to determine
their cytotoxic effects on A549 human lung adenocarcinoma, Caco-2 human colorectal adenocarcinoma
and CCD-19Lu human lung fibroblast cells. The most potent compounds were evaluated
for their effects on apoptosis, caspase-3, mitochondrial membrane potential, cell cycle, ultrastructural
morphological changes and COX-2 in A549 and Caco-2 cells. In silico docking and Absorption, Distribution,
Metabolism and Excretion (ADME) studies were also performed using Schrödinger’s
Maestro molecular modeling package.

Results:

6-(4-Chlorophenyl)-3-[(5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)methyl]-7H-[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-
b][1,3,4]thiadiazine (2e) was the most potent and selective anticancer agent in this series against
A549 and Caco-2 cell lines. Compound 2e induced early apoptosis, caused mitochondrial membrane
depolarization and arrested cell cycle at G0/G1 phase in A549 cells. On the other hand, compound 2e
triggered intrinsic apoptotic pathway involving caspase-3 activation in Caco-2 cells. Compound 2e
caused apoptotic morphological changes in both cancer cell lines. The cytotoxic and apoptotic effects
of this compound on CRC were found to be related to its selective COX-2 inhibitory activity. According
to molecular docking studies, compound 2e showed good affinity to the active site of COX-2
(PDB code: 4COX). Based on in silico ADME studies, the compound is predicted to possess a favorable
ADME profile.

Conclusion:

According to in vitro and in silico studies, compound 2e was identified as a potential
orally bioavailable anticancer agent for COX-2-targeted therapy of CRC.
Q-TOF LC/MS-based Untargeted Metabolomics Approach to Evaluate the Effect of Folate-Conjugated Cyclodextrins on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Varol Işıl , Kaplan Ozan , Erdoğar Nazlı , Öncül Selin , Nielsen Thorbjorn Terndrup , Ercan Ayşe , Bilensoy Erem , Çelebier Mustafa
Published: October 2020

Background:

Breast cancer is a heterogenic disease that comprises of various morphologies
with intrinsic subtypes and is principally responsible for casualties among female cancer patients.
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype with a high probability
of relapsing, hence successful treatment can be quite challenging. The pathogenesis of TNBC remains
ambiguous and the identification of dependable biomarkers for its early diagnosis is crucial
to design a strategy for therapeutic armamentarium.

Objective:

To clarify the folate-dependent mechanism of action causing cell death and to unravel
the potential biomarkers of TNBC to defeat this consequential public health burden.

Methods:

The MTT assay and the morphological examination via microscopy were carried out to
examine the viability of the cells upon the administration of the blank folate-conjugated cyclodextrin
nanoparticles. An untargeted metabolomic approach using Q-TOF LC/MS was performed. Multivariate
analysis of the metabolomic profile was applied to the MDA-MB-231 cell line with the
aim of comparing the untreated cells with the folate-conjugated cyclodextrin nanoparticles applied
cells to detect possible biomarkers.

Results:

The spectrophotometric and microscopic analyses revealed that MDA-MB-231 cells underwent
early apoptosis following the incubation with the folate-conjugated nanoparticles for 24 h
of administration. Moreover, metabolomics profiling pointed out that hexose metabolism was significantly
altered. Data mining procedures showed that glycolysis, mannose, fructose, and galactose
were the most affected pathways in TNBC upon blank folate-conjugated cyclodextrin nanoparticle
administration and this effect was determined to be cell-specific. A perturbed hexose pathway may
be the explanation of selective cell death and decelerated cell growth seen in TNBC cells.

Conclusions:

Our study offers a new understanding of the underlying mechanisms of TNBC since
we hereby provide evidence that hexose is one of the main driving forces for the metabolic mechanism
over TNBC cells. This alternative mechanistic approach may markedly increase the effect of
chemotherapy on TNBC.
Controller for the Pulverizing System Based on Intelligent Virtual Reference Feedback Tuning
Authors: Wang Ling , Li Dengji , Hu Xuelian , Zhang Pinggai , Menhas Muhammad I.
Published: October 2020

Background::

The pulverizing system is an important part of the coal-fired unit; the safety
and efficient operation of which are essential to improve the economy of the units. Due to the
needs of industrial development, the pulverizing system has become increasingly complex, and it is
challenging to design the optimal controllers based on traditional model-based methods.

Objective::

This paper proposes an improved intelligent data-driven control method to design the
optimal controller for the pulverizing system, which does not need any information on the model.

Methods::

The proposed method is based on intelligent virtual reference feedback tuning and a new
adaptive human learning optimization algorithm, in which adaptive human learning optimization is
used to find the best values of the controller as well as the reference model to achieve the optimal
control performance. The proposed method only needs a set of input and output data of the system
and can avoid the influence of the model error.

Results::

The results of the CEC14 benchmark functions show that the proposed algorithm possesses
a better searchability than the other five binary-coding optimization algorithms. Furthermore, the
simulation results on the pulverizing system demonstrate that the presented method has advantages
over different control methods, including the model-based PID methods, Z-N method and so on.

Conclusion::

The proposed method can easily and efficiently design the optimal controller without
any model information, and it can save a lot of efforts and time for engineering applications. Therefore,
it is a very promising control method.