bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corticosteroid injection plus exercise versus exercise, beyond advice and a heel cup for patients with plantar fasciopathy: protocol for a randomised clinical superiority trial (the FIX-Heel trial)
Authors: Riel Henrik , Vicenzino Bill , Olesen Jens Lykkegaard , Jensen Martin Bach , Ehlers Lars Holger , Rathleff Michael Skovdal
Published: January 2020

Background

Plantar fasciopathy has a lifetime prevalence of 10%. Patients experience sharp pain under the heel, often for several months or years. Multiple treatments are available, but no single treatment appears superior to the others. A corticosteroid injection offers short-term pain relief but is no better than placebo in the longer term (> 8 weeks). Heavy-slow resistance training has shown potentially positive effects on long-term outcomes (> 3 months), and combining exercises with an injection may prove to be superior to exercises alone. However, the effect of heavy-slow resistance training compared with a simpler approach of patient advice (e.g., load management) and insoles is currently unknown. This trial compares the efficacy of patient advice with patient advice plus heavy-slow resistance training and with patient advice plus heavy-slow resistance training plus a corticosteroid injection in improving the Foot Health Status Questionnaire pain score after 12 weeks in patients with plantar fasciopathy.

Methods

In this randomised superiority trial, we will recruit 180 patients with ultrasound-confirmed plantar fasciopathy and randomly allocate them to one of three groups: (1) patient advice and an insole (n = 60); (2) patient advice, an insole, and self-dosed heavy-slow resistance training consisting of heel raises (n = 60); or (3) patient advice, an insole, heavy-slow resistance training, and an ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection (n = 60). All participants will be followed for 1 year, with the 12-week follow-up considered the primary endpoint. The primary outcome is the Foot Health Status questionnaire pain domain score. Secondary outcomes include the remaining three domains of the Foot Health Status Questionnaire, a 7-point Global Rating of Change, the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, physical activity level, health-related quality of life measured by the EQ-5D-5L, and Patient Acceptable Symptom State, which is the point at which participants feel no further need for treatment. Additionally, a health economic evaluation of the treatments will be carried out.

Discussion

This trial will test if adding heavy-slow resistance training to fundamental patient advice and an insole improves outcomes and if a corticosteroid injection adds even further to that effect in patients with plantar fasciopathy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03804008. Prospectively registered on January 15, 2019.
Effects of lutein supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers and metabolic risk factors in adults with central obesity: study protocol for a randomised controlled study
Authors: Zhou Juan , Zhao Dan , Wang Ning , Zeng Zhiwei , Wang Changyi , Hao Liping , Peng Xiaolin
Published: January 2020

Background

The prevalence of central obesity is constantly increasing, and visceral fat is associated with increased production of inflammatory factors and metabolic risk factors. Lutein might retard the development of metabolic disease through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, epidemiological studies have associated higher dietary intake and serum levels of lutein with decreased adiposity. However, few randomised controlled trials have shown the effects of lutein supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers and metabolic risk factors, especially in adults with central obesity.

Methods

This study will be conducted as a double-blind, parallel placebo-controlled clinical trial in which 120 people who have central obesity, are 18 to 60 years old and are willing to provide informed consent will be randomly assigned to the intervention or placebo group in a 1:1 ratio according to sex, age and waist circumference. The intervention group will receive 10 mg daily lutein supplementation for 12 weeks to explore the effect of lutein supplementation on serum lutein, glycaemic and lipid profiles, inflammatory factors and body composition. Two populations (intention-to-treat population and per-protocol population) will be used in the data analyses.

Discussion

Our findings from this trial will contribute to the knowledge of the association between lutein supplementation and inflammatory biomarkers and metabolic risk factors in people with central obesity and will offer a possibility for the prevention of inflammatory diseases.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR1800018098. Registered on 30 August 2018.
A traffic data collection and analysis method based on wireless sensor network
Authors: Wang Huan , Ouyang Min , Meng Qingyuan , Kong Qian
Published: January 2020

With the rapid development of urbanization, collecting and analyzing traffic flow data are of great significance to build intelligent cities. The paper proposes a novel traffic data collection method based on wireless sensor network (WSN), which cannot only collect traffic flow data, but also record the speed and position of vehicles. On this basis, the paper proposes a data analysis method based on incremental noise addition for traffic flow data, which provides a criterion for chaotic identification. The method adds noise of different intensities to the signal incrementally by an improved surrogate data method and uses the delayed mutual information to measure the complexity of signals. Based on these steps, the trend of complexity change of mixed signal can be used to identify signal characteristics. The numerical experiments show that, based on incremental noise addition, the complexity trends of periodic data, random data, and chaotic data are different. The application of the method opens a new way for traffic flow data collection and analysis.
Multiple positive solutions to singular fractional differential equations with integral boundary conditions involving $p-q$-order derivatives
Authors: Wang Han , Jiang Jiqiang
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we investigate the existence for a class of higher-order fractional differential equations with integral boundary value conditions involving$p-q$p−q-order derivatives. As an application of the height functions on some special bounded sets, we obtain the existence of two positive solutions by means of the Leray–Schauder nonlinear alternative and cone expansion and cone compression fixed point theory. The nonlinearity may take negative infinity, and there may appear a singular phenomenon on both time and space variables.
The SMAC mimetic LCL-161 selectively targets JAK2V617F mutant cells
Authors: Craver Brianna M. , Nguyen Thanh Kim , Nguyen Jenny , Nguyen Hellen , Huynh Christy , Morse Sarah J. , Fleischman Angela G.
Published: January 2020

Background

Evasion from programmed cell death is a hallmark of cancer and can be achieved in cancer cells by overexpression of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs). Second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (SMAC) directly bind to IAPs and promote apoptosis; thus, SMAC mimetics have been investigated in a variety of cancer types. particularly in diseases with high inflammation and NFĸB activation. Given that elevated TNFα levels and NFĸB activation is a characteristic feature of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), we investigated the effect of the SMAC mimetic LCL-161 on MPN cell survival in vitro and disease development in vivo.

Methods

To investigate the effect of the SMAC mimetic LCL-161 in vitro, we utilized murine and human cell lines to perform cell viability assays as well as primary bone marrow from mice or humans with JAK2V617F–driven MPN to interrogate myeloid colony formation. To elucidate the effect of the SMAC mimetic LCL-161 in vivo, we treated a JAK2V617F–driven mouse model of MPN with LCL-161 then assessed blood counts, splenomegaly, and myelofibrosis.

Results

We found that JAK2V617F-mutated cells are hypersensitive to the SMAC mimetic LCL-161 in the absence of exogenous TNFα. JAK2 kinase activity and NFĸB activation is required for JAK2V617F-mediated sensitivity to LCL-161, as JAK or NFĸB inhibitors diminished the differential sensitivity of JAK2V617F mutant cells to IAP inhibition. Finally, LCL-161 reduces splenomegaly and may reduce fibrosis in a mouse model of JAK2V617F-driven MPN.

Conclusion

LCL-161 may be therapeutically useful in MPN, in particular when exogenous TNFα signaling is blocked. NFĸB activation is a characteristic feature of JAK2V617F mutant cells and this sensitizes them to SMAC mimetic induced killing even in the absence of TNFα. However, when exogenous TNFα is added, NFĸB is activated in both mutant and wild-type cells, abolishing the differential sensitivity. Moreover, JAK kinase activity is required for the differential sensitivity of JAK2V617F mutant cells, suggesting that the addition of JAK2 inhibitors to SMAC mimetics would detract from the ability of SMAC mimetics to selectively target JAK2V617F mutant cells. Instead, combination therapy with other agents that reduce inflammatory cytokines but preserve JAK2 signaling in mutant cells may be a more beneficial combination therapy in MPN.
Gravity analysis of the offset between crustal structure and topography in the Liupan Shan, northeast Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Fu Guangyu
Published: January 2020

Dense gravity/GPS measurements collected around the southwest margin of the Ordos Block in 2014 and 2017 were used to obtain three gravity anomaly profiles across the Liupan Shan Mountains. The Liupan Shan is located in a Bouguer gravity anomaly (BGA) transitional zone; however, low BGAs to the west do not correspond to the topography of the Liupan Shan in that region, with a maximum offset of approximately 34 km. This offset is also found in inverted crustal density structures whereby the interface between the upper and lower crust is notably concave to the west of the Liupan Shan. Flexural analysis indicates that the effective elastic thickness is 5 km and the uplift is caused by oblique subduction of surface materials. According to this uplift mechanism, the offset suggests that Liupan Shan migrated eastward following partial isostatic compensation. Therefore, we suggest that Liupan Shan has experienced an uplift–compensation–uplift tectonic process.
Laceration of the transverse mesocolon in an old man with a habit of abdominal massage for constipation: a case report
Authors: Mori Shusuke , Ai Tomohiko , Otomo Yasuhiro
Published: January 2020

Background

Abdominal massage for the resolution of constipation has been reported to be safe and recommended in some studies. It is conventionally performed for the elderly suffering from intractable constipation. Meantime, isolated mesenteric injury after blunt abdominal trauma is uncommon. Here, we report a case of isolated mesenteric injury following self-abdominal massage for constipation.

Case presentation

A 68-year-old man consulted a local hospital due to a sudden abdominal pain. He had a history of prostate cancer treated with radiation therapy 3 years ago, and he had been suffering from chronic constipation for many years. A plain computed tomography (CT) revealed a fist-sized homogeneous mass-like lesion located in the left upper abdomen and a moderate amount of ascites. With the initial diagnosis of a malignant tumor accompanied by peritonitis carcinomatosa, he was hospitalized for further examinations. On the next day, his hemoglobin concentration dropped from 11.6 to 6.6 g/dl, and diagnostic paracentesis showed bloody ascites. He was urgently transferred to our tertiary emergency center. An enhanced CT demonstrated a non-enhanced, homogeneous, 8.5 cm in diameter, mass lesion located to the posterior of the stomach with massive bloody ascites. He underwent an emergency exploratory laparotomy, and it showed a 5 cm of laceration in the transverse mesocolon adjacent to Treitz’s ligament and approximately 1.5 l of intraabdominal hemorrhage. Hemostasis of the bleeding from the laceration was achieved by suture ligations, but the gap of the laceration could not be closed by suturing because the tissue was too fragile. Blood transfusion with 4 units of packed red blood cells and 10 units of fresh frozen plasma was performed during operation. He was discharged without any significant complications except for postoperative paralytic ileus. Later on, it turned out that he had a habit of massaging his abdomen for the resolution of intractable constipation and did it hard 1 day before the onset.

Conclusions

This is the first report of life-threatening mesenteric injury caused by self-abdominal massage to resolve constipation, though other etiologies such as rupture of small aneurysms could not perfectly be excluded. Abdominal massage is reported to be effective and safe for the resolution of constipation; however, this case demonstrated it could be detrimental.
Overbaked: assessing and predicting acute adverse reactions to Cannabis
Authors: LaFrance Emily M. , Stueber Amanda , Glodosky Nicholas C. , Mauzay Dakota , Cuttler Carrie
Published: January 2020

Background

Trends toward legalizing cannabis may increase experimentation with the drug among less experienced users with limited knowledge of possible adverse reactions. This study explores the prevalence, frequency, and levels of distress produced by various acute adverse reactions to cannabis, as well as predictors of these reactions.

Methods

The Adverse Reactions Scale (ARS) was created and administered to a large sample of undergraduate college students (n = 999) who were predominantly white (> 70%), female (> 70%), recreational (> 90%) cannabis users. The ARS was administered in an anonymous online survey measuring demographics, cannabis use patterns, cannabis use motives, personality, and negative affect.

Results

The most prevalent adverse reactions to cannabis were coughing fits, anxiety, and paranoia, which > 50% of the sample reported experiencing. The most frequently occurring reactions were coughing fits, chest/lung discomfort, and body humming, which occurred on approximately 30–40% of cannabis use sessions. Panic attacks, fainting, and vomiting were rated as the most distressing, with mean ratings falling between “moderately” and “quite” distressing. Multiple regression analyses revealed that lower frequency of cannabis use predicted increased frequency of adverse reactions. Symptoms of cannabis use disorder, conformity motives, and anxiety sensitivity were significant predictors of both the prevalence of, and distress caused by, adverse reactions.

Conclusions

Relative to past research, this study provides a more comprehensive account of possible adverse reactions to cannabis, and individual difference variables that predict these reactions. This study has implications for inexperienced cannabis users, as well as medical professionals and budtenders who provide information about cannabis use.
Anti–B-Cell Maturation Antigen BiTE Molecule AMG 420 Induces Responses in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Topp Max S. , Duell Johannes , Zugmaier Gerhard , Attal Michel , Moreau Philippe , Langer Christian , Krönke Jan , Facon Thierry , Salnikov Alexey V. , Lesley Robin , Beutner Karl , Kalabus James , Rasmussen Erik , Riemann Kathrin , Minella Alex C. , Munzert Gerd , Einsele Hermann
Published: January 2020

PURPOSE

The anti–B-cell maturation antigen BiTE molecule AMG 420 was assessed in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this first-in-human study, up to 10 cycles of AMG 420 were given (4-week infusions/6-week cycles). Patients had progression after ≥ 2 lines of prior therapy and no extramedullary disease. Minimal residual disease (MRD) response was defined as < 1 tumor cell/104 bone marrow cells by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients received AMG 420 at 0.2-800 μg/d. Median age was 65 years, and median disease duration was 5.2 years. Median exposure was 1 cycle (range, 1-10 cycles) and 7 cycles (range, 1-10 cycles) for responders. Patients discontinued for disease progression (n = 25), adverse events (AEs; n = 7), death (n = 4), completion of 10 cycles (n = 3), and consent withdrawal (n = 1). Two patients remain on treatment. There were 2 nontreatment-related deaths from AEs, influenza/aspergillosis and adenovirus-related hepatitis. Serious AEs (n = 20; 48%) included infections (n = 14) and polyneuropathy (n = 2); treatment-related serious AEs included 2 grade 3 polyneuropathies and 1 grade 3 edema. There were no grade ≥ 3 CNS toxicities or anti-AMG 420 antibodies. In this study, 800 μg/d was considered to not be tolerable because of 1 instance each of grade 3 cytokine release syndrome and grade 3 polyneuropathy, both of which resolved. The overall response rate was 31% (n = 13 of 42). At the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of 400 μg/d, the response rate was 70% (n = 7 of 10). Of these, five patients experienced MRD-negative complete responses, and 1 had a partial response, and 1 had a very good partial response; all 7 patients responded during the first cycle, and some responses lasted > 1 year.

CONCLUSION

In this study of AMG 420 in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, the response rate was 70%, including 50% MRD-negative complete responses, at 400 μg/d, the MTD for this study.
Increasing Cervical Cancer Incidence in Rural Eastern Cape Province of South Africa From 1998 to 2012: A Population-Based Cancer Registry Study
Authors: Somdyala Nontuthuzelo I.M. , Bradshaw Debbie , Dhansay Muhammad A. , Stefan Daniela C.
Published: January 2020

PURPOSE

In this study, we aimed to investigate trends in the age-standardized and age-specific incidence rates in two distinct regions (the northern and southern areas) of South Africa covered by a population-based cancer registry. In addition, trends in coverage of the cervical cancer screening program were assessed using routine health service data.

METHODS

Occurrences (topography C53.0-C53.9) for the period 1998-2012 were extracted from a cancer registry database from which basic descriptive statistics and frequencies were analyzed for all variables using CanReg4. Trends over time were estimated using a direct standardization method and world standard population as a reference. Screening coverage annualized figures for women age ≥ 30 years by sub–health district were extracted from the District Health Information System.

RESULTS

In the northern area, annual age-standardized incidence rates per 100,000 women increased from 24.0 (95% CI, 21.1 to 27.0) in 1998-2002 to 39.0 (95% CI, 35.6 to 42.5) in 2008-2012, with a screening coverage rate of 15% by 2012. In contrast, no increase was observed in incidence in the southern area, with rates of 20.0 (95% CI, 18.5 to 21.4) in 1998-2002 and 18.8 (95% CI, 16.2 to 21.4) in 2008-2012, and the southern area had a higher screening coverage of 41% in 2012. Overall, the percentage distribution of stage at diagnosis showed that 28.5% of occurrences were diagnosed at disease stages I and II and 35%, at III and IV; 36% had with missing stage information (2003-2012). In 77% of occurrences, a histologically verified diagnosis was made, compared with only 12.3% by cytology.

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated an almost two-fold increase in the incidence rate in the northern area but little change in the southern area of the cancer registry.
Tipping and the Effects of Segregation
Authors: Böhlmark Anders , Willén Alexander
Published: January 2020

We analyze how neighborhood ethnic population composition affects the short- and long-run education and labor market outcomes of natives and immigrants. To overcome the problem of nonrandom sorting across neighborhoods, we borrow theoretical insights from the tipping point literature and exploit estimated tipping thresholds as instruments for changes in ethnic population composition. Our results provide little evidence in support of the idea that living in a neighborhood with a higher immigrant share leads to worse outcomes. (JEL I20, J15, J24, R23)
Early Voting Laws, Voter Turnout, and Partisan Vote Composition: Evidence from Ohio
Authors: Kaplan Ethan , Yuan Haishan
Published: January 2020

We estimate effects of early voting on voter turnout using a 2010 homogenization law from Ohio that forced some counties to expand and others to contract early voting. Using voter registration data, we compare individuals who live within the same 2 × 2 mile square block but in different counties. We find substantial positive impacts of early voting on turnout equal to 0.22 percentage points of additional turnout per additional early voting day. We also find greater impacts on women, Democrats, independents, and those of child-bearing and working age. We simulate impacts of national early day laws on recent election outcomes. (JEL D72, K16)
The Impact of Brexit on Foreign Investment and Production
Authors: McGrattan Ellen R. , Waddle Andrea
Published: January 2020

Using simulations from a multi-country neoclassical growth model, we analyze several post-Brexit scenarios. First, the United Kingdom unilaterally imposes tighter restrictions on FDI and trade from other EU nations. Second, the European Uunion retaliates and imposes the same restrictions on the United Kingdom. Finally, the United Kingdom reduces restrictions on other nations during the post-Brexit transition. Model predictions depend crucially on the policy response of multinationals’ investment in technology capital, accumulated know-how from investments in R&D, brands, and organizations used simultaneously in their domestic and foreign operations. (JEL D25, F13, F15, F23, G31, O32)
Heterogeneity, Inattention, and Bayesian Updates
Authors: Giacomini Raffaella , Skreta Vasiliki , Turen Javier
Published: January 2020

We formulate a theory of expectations updating that fits the dynamics of accuracy and disagreement in a new survey of professional forecasters. We document new stylized facts, including the puzzling persistence of disagreement as uncertainty resolves. Our theory explains these facts by allowing for different channels of heterogeneity. Agents produce an initial forecast based on heterogeneous priors and are heterogeneously “inattentive.” Updaters use Bayes’ rule and interpret public information using possibly heterogeneous models. Structural estimation of our theory supports the conclusion that in normal times heterogeneous priors and inattention are enough to generate persistent disagreement, but not during the crisis. (JEL C53, D81, D83, D84, E31, E37)
Temporary Price Changes, Inflation Regimes, and the Propagation of Monetary Shocks
Authors: Alvarez Fernando , Lippi Francesco
Published: January 2020

We present a sticky price model that features the coexistence of many price changes, most of which are temporary, with a modest flexibility of the aggregate price level. Stickiness is introduced in the form of a price plan, namely a set of two prices: either price can be charged at any moment but changing the plan entails a menu cost. We analytically solve for the optimal plan and for the aggregate output response to a monetary shock. We present evidence consistent with the model implications using scanner data, as well as Consumer Price Index data across a wide range of inflation rates. (JEL D22, E31, E52, L11, O11, O23)
Rational Inattention in Hiring Decisions
Authors: Acharya Sushant , Wee Shu Lin
Published: January 2020

We provide an information-based theory of matching efficiency fluctuations. Rationally inattentive firms have limited capacity to process information and cannot perfectly identify suitable applicants. During recessions, higher losses from hiring unsuitable workers cause firms to be more selective in hiring. When firms cannot obtain sufficient information about applicants, they err on the side of caution and accept fewer applicants to minimize losses from hiring unsuitable workers. Pro-cyclical acceptance rates drive a wedge between meeting and hiring rates, explaining fluctuations in matching efficiency. Quantitatively, our model replicates the joint behavior of unemployment rates and matching efficiency observed since the Great Recession. (JEL D83, E24, E32, J23, J41, M51)
Case Article—Workforce Scheduling for Airport Immigration on the Island of Tropical Paradise
Authors: Sharkey Thomas C. , Bublak Steve , Disselkamp Lisa , Shkil Brittney
Published: January 2020

This case study focuses on modeling and analyzing the practices concerning the staffing of the immigration agency at the Island of Tropical Paradise International Airport, which is responsible for processing arriving passengers into the country. Students are challenged to model the status quo of immigration employee scheduling and analyze various high-level policy changes to determine the reduction in staffing requirements while also being concerned with the wait time of passengers in the queue at immigration. The case has been used in an introductory operations research (OR) course in an engineering curriculum as a term project and was created based on a client of a major consulting organization. The main teaching objective of the case is to have students demonstrate an understanding of how to use OR models and analysis to impact practice. To this end, the case moves the students from standard classroom or textbook examples to an open-ended problem where there is not a single correct model or analysis to tackle it.
Designing the Right Global Supply Chain Network
Authors: Cohen Morris A. , Lee Hau L.
Published: January 2020

This paper considers how research in operations management can support the development of strategies for the design and management of global supply chains. It includes a model-based statement of the problem and an overview of highlights of past research that is relevant to both theory and practice. The paper identifies opportunities for research that focus on how global supply chain modeling can inform the current debate concerning the reaction of firms to changes in government policy that are relevant to global manufacturing and logistics. This includes policy changes, such as tariffs, content requirements, taxes, and investment incentives.
On the Inefficiency of Forward Markets in Leader–Follower Competition
Authors: Cai Desmond , Agarwal Anish , Wierman Adam
Published: January 2020

The role of forward contracts in mitigating market power is an important and recurring theme in oligopolistic industries, such as electricity and gas. In “On the Inefficiency of Forward Markets in Leader–Follower Competition,” D. Cai, A. Agarwal, and A. Wierman study the impact of forward contracting in situations where firms have capacity constraints and heterogeneous production lead times. The authors introduce a model that combines forward contracting and leader–follower competition and explicitly characterize the equilibrium outcomes with and without forward contracting. They show that the impact of forward markets is delicate—it may mitigate market power or create opportunities for market manipulation. In particular, leader–follower interactions due to heterogeneous production lead times may cause forward markets to be inefficient, even when there are a large number of followers. In fact, symmetric equilibria do not necessarily exist due to differences in market power among leaders and followers.
Anti-Depressant and Neuroprotective Effects of Captopril and Perindopril in Paraquat Model of Parkinsonism
Authors: Prakash KG , Bannur BM , Madhavrao C , K Saniya , Viveka S , Sudha M J
Published: January 2020

Non-motor symptoms such as depression, dementia, autonomic nervous system problems may be more evident in the later part of Parkinsonism. L-dopa is largely ineffective for non-motor symptoms. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the anti-depressant and neuroprotective role of captopril and perindopril in paraquat mice model of Parkinsonism. Adult Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups of six each. Parkinsonism was induced with paraquat (7mg/kg bodyweight at an interval of 2 days) in four groups. Experimental group was treated with captopril (20mg/kg intraperitoneal) and perindopril (5mg/kg intraperitoneal). Depression influences on behaviour was studied with forced swim test and tail suspension test. Oxidative stress markers – glutathione, lipid peroxidation assay, myeloperoxidase activity, catalase, superoxide dismutase, monoamine oxidase A and B are carried out in one hemisection of the mice brain to evaluate the neuroprotective role of the test drugs. The test group mice exposed to captopril and perindopril had significantly less immobility time in both forced swim test and tail suspension test in comparison to the paraquat group, indicating anti-depressant effects of these drugs. Lipid peroxidation, myeloperoxidase activity, catalase, superoxide dismutase, monoamine oxidase B levels were significantly increased in both captopril and perindopril groups in comparison to the control group. Captopril and perindopril have shown beneficial effects for depression (as evidenced through forced swimming test and tail suspension test) in paraquat model of Parkinsonism. These drugs reduce the oxidative stress in paraquat mice model of Parkinsonism
Effect of Annona Squamosa Ethanolic and Aqueous Leave Extracts on Aluminum Chloride-Induced Neuroinflammation in Albino Rats
Authors: Hendawy Omnia Magdy , ELBana Mona Anwar , Abdelmawlla Hassan A. , Maliyakkal Naseer , Hedeab Gomaa Mostafa
Published: January 2020

Aluminum (Al) is present daily in our life, the long-term excessive Al intake induces neuroinflammation and cognition retardation. Annona squamosa leaves showed some medicinal activities as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antidiabetic drugs. This study was designed to examine the effect of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of annona squamosa leaves against aluminum chloride (AlCl3-induced neuroinflammation in rats. 40 male albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, 10 rats each. Group 1; (Control rats), Group 2; (rats received AlCl3 50mg/kg body weight orally (p.o), Group 3; (rats received AlCl3 and annona squamosa leave aqueous extracts (300mg/kg) and Group 4; (rats received AlCl3 and annona squamosa ethanolic extracts (300mg/kg). After two months; blood samples were collected for assessment of serum nuclear factor- ҡβ (NF-ҡβ) and Acetyl cholinesterase (Ach E). The brain of each rat was removed for assessment Brain nitric oxide, reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), caspase 3 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). AlCl3 increase brain MDA, NO, Ach E activity, NF-ҡβ and caspase 3, significant decreases in GSH, SOD activity and BDNF. Ethanolic or aqueous annona squamosa leaves extracts ameliorate MDA, NO, Ach. E activity, NF-ҡβ and caspase 3 and restore GSH, SOD activity and BDNF to near normal levels in AlCl3 treated rats. Conclusion: Both of ethanolic and aqueous annona squamosa leave extracts protect rat brain against oxidative stress and inflammation induced by AlCl3.
A Probe into Prohealing Potential of Glyceryl Trinitrate
Authors: Surale-Patil Smita A. , Patil Tatyasaheb , Kulkarni Ravindra
Published: January 2020

Wound healing is a complex, delicate process which consists of series of cellular and biochemical events leading to re-establishment of anatomical continuity. Anal fissure is a painful, chronic, non-healing wound. Its chronicity is due to spasm of anal sphincter and local ischemia. It is treated surgically by sphincterotomy to eliminate sphincter spasm. Therefore, Glyceryl trinitrate(GTN) has been used as a non-surgical alternative treatment due to its spasmolytic activity. The present study was undertaken to determine wound healing potential of GTN in wistar rats. 18 male wistar rats were divided in three groups, 6 rats per group Control (Normal saline), GTN, GTN Ointment base. A 500 mm2 excisional wound , circular in shape was created . The drugs were applied topically over the wound, one day after the wounding. Two parameters were studied viz; wound contraction and period of epithelization. Glyceryl trinitrate has shown statistically signfiicant difference in wound contraction compared to control on 10th day. Period of epithelization was not reduced significantly by Glyceryl trinitrate when compared to Control. Glyceryl trinitrate has wound healing potential apart from its spasmolytic action.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of 3-Formyl, 7-Flavonols Derivatives by Microwave Enhanced Chemistry Assisted - Vilsmeier Haack Synthesis
Authors: Karpakavalli M. , Sangilimuthu A.Y. , Nanthini A.Usha Raja , Perumal G.Nagaraja , Mohan S. , Sivakumar T.
Published: January 2020

In the modern medicines the novel and active molecules are essential to act against various diseases and increase the needs day by day due to population increase. In view of that, we attempt to make a variety of synthetic molecules against inflammation by a new and popular greener microwave assisted and faster method such as Microwave Enhanced Chemistry assisted Vilsmeier Haack Synthesis (MEC-VHS). In this paper, we report the synthesis of nitro- dinitro- and acetyl- derivatives of 3- formyl, 7-flavonols using MEC-VHS techniques against inflammation as anti-inflammatory agent. These derivatives were synthesized via pinkish formylation complex of dimethyl formamide and phosphorous oxychloride by microwave irradiation resulted as suspension by base. The re-crystallized products were characterized through Co-TLC, λmax, IR, HPTLC, 1HNMR, CHN analysis and mass spectral studies. The HPTLC finger print profiles obtained were of with a prominent single peak and with a matching Rf values compared to that obtained by an ordinary Co-TLC technique. All the synthesized compounds were screened for their anti-inflammatory activity by in vitro protein denaturation method and in vivo carrageenan induced paw oedema method and it was found that all the compounds excepting the un-substituted 3-formyl, 7-flavonols gave an equi- or more potent activity as compared to that of the standard.
The Potential Gastrointestinal Health Benefits of Thymus Vulgaris Essential Oil: A Review
Authors: Almanea Abdulaziz , El-Aziz Gamal S. Abd , Ahmed Mohamed Morsi M.
Published: January 2020

In recent times, medicinal plants have received great attention worldwide due to their effective pharmacological properties and therapeutic benefits. Numerous chemical compounds extracted from various medicinal plants have manifold biological activities. Thymus vulgaris (TV) is a flowering plant with an aromatic odor that has been broadly applied in conventional medicine, food additives, and phyto-pharmaceutical preparations. It is recognized to have promising therapeutic potential for curing various types of diseases. The essential oil extracted from TV, which contains a high quantity of flavonoids, possess antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Consequently, it could be utilized as a good source in developing novel natural antioxidants and antibiotics. This review explores some of the potential health benefits of TV essential oil (TVEO) on the gastrointestinal tract.
Evalution and Molecular Docking of Benzimidazole and its Derivatives as a Potent Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Chandrasekar Kamatchi , Kumar Bhawani , Saravanan Arunkumar , Victor Ayush , Sivaraj Saranya , Haridoss Magesh , Priyadurairaj Priyadurairaj , Hemalatha Catna Nagaraj , Muthukumar Vijey Aanandhi
Published: January 2020

The study was performed to identify a potent antibacterial benzimidazole derivative using in vitro and in silico techniques. Benzimidazole and its derivatives were synthesized by reflux process. The derivatives were screened for antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Gram-negative and Gram-positive clinical isolates and compared with the positive control Norfloxacin. Insilico molecular docking was performed to screen the binding potential of the derivatives with target enzymes topoisomerase II /DNA gyraseof Escherichia coli (E.coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) along with the control Norfloxacin.Totally fifty-four isolates were screened for antimicrobial supectibility test (AST) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and 35 clinical isolates of Gram-negative showed 86% resistance to Norfloxacin and 19 isolates of Gram-positive showed 90% resistance to Norfloxacin. However, these isolates were found to be sensitive to 1-(4-((1H–benzimidazol-1-yl) methylamino) phenyl) ethanone (3) (C2), and 2-methyl-1H-benzimidazole (C4) compounds, with MIC ranges from 6.25- 12.5 µg/ml. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the compound C2 exhibited better binding affinity towards topoisomerase II / DNA gyrase of E.coli and S.aureus when compared with C4 and control Norfloxacin. The antibacterial activity of these may due to the inactivation of these enzymes which is supported by the MIC results.The obtained in vitro and in silico results suggested that C2 showed better antimicrobial activity.
DNA Damage and Neutrophil Elastase in Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Erfan Zaki Moushira , Youness Eman , Gadelhak Mohamed , Shehab Marwa , El-Toukhy Safinaz , Soliman Doaa , Yousef Walaa , El-Bassyouni Hala
Published: January 2020

Obesity is the most common cause of metabolic problems in Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). Obesity has been joined to a low grade pro-inflammatory state, in which impairments in the oxidative stress and antioxidant mechanism could be involved. The aim of the work is to investigate the level of DNA damage and inflammatory marker neutrophil elastase in PWS patients. The study included 21 children with PWS detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) method and 20 age and sex healthy matched obese controls. Their mean age was 6 ± 2.24 years. Leukocyte DNA damage was evaluated by comet assay and neutrophil elastase was assessed by ELISA. All patients presented with distinctive faces, hypotonia, obesity, short stature and various other criteria. FISH revealed deletion 15q11–13 in all PWS patients. The mean of DNA damage frequency was significantly higher in PWS than controls. The body fat%, body mass index (BMI) z score were elevated in PWS cases. Moreover, the neutrophil elastase was significantly higher in patients compared to controls. The present study highlights the existence of oxidative stress and inflammation in Prader Willi syndrome that may have a role in the management and treatment of these patients.
A Cross Sectional Study on the Status of Inflammatory Markers in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (Pcos) in Indian Population
Authors: Ramamoorthy Senthurselvi , K Bhuvaneswari
Published: January 2020

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common disease exclusively seen in women of reproductive age group. World Health Organization reports that Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome approximately affects 5-10% of the reproductive female population worldwide. Women with PCOS have chronic inflammation. This in turn leads to increased incidence of non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes2. Chronic inflammation in PCOS patients can be identified using serum markers such as C - reactive protein [CRP], Interleukin-6 [IL-6] and Interleukin-18 [IL-18].So the main objective of the study was to assess the status of inflammation in patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and to assess the influence of drugs prescribed for PCOS on inflammation. Patients were divided into three groups as healthy volunteers, newly diagnosed PCOS patients, already on treatment patients for PCOS. High sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP), IL-6 and IL-18 were assessed. There was an increase in the hs-CRP, IL-6 and IL-18 compared to healthy volunteers in both newly diagnosed and already diagnosed groups. But there was no statistical significance (hs-CRP=0.975, IL-6=0.746, IL-18 = 0.148) between them. The mean value has decreased in the already on treatment group as duration of treatment increases. There was no statistical significance between them. There was an inversely proportional relationship between the mean values of inflammatory markers and duration of treatment.
Urinary Tract Infection among Pregnant Women and its Associated Risk Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Labib Al-Kashif Mirfat Mohamed
Published: January 2020

Urinary tract infection is widespread among pregnant women and is accompanying adverse maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. Even so, no data exist regarding this problem in Wadi Addawser to guide specific management and thus to avert the adverse consequences. The study aimed to assess the urinary tract infection among pregnant women and its associated risk factors and to investigate the most common antibacterial agent used by infected pregnant women. A total of 303 pregnant women who attend the obstetrics and gynecology clinic with the inclusion criteria were included. The sample was collected using a structured interview. The study results showed, 53.5 % of the studied women had positive pathogens in the urine culture. E. coli (37%) followed by Klebsiella pneumonia (27%) had the highest percentage of the isolated pathogens. Amoxicillin and cefoxitin (40.1% &21.6%, respectively) are the most antibiotics used by infected women, while the lowest used antibiotics are fusidic acid (5.6%). The clinical symptoms such as frequency of micturition, dysuria, lower abdominal pain, urine color change, painful burning sensation, incomplete bladder evacuation were e most common among infected women. Since the symptoms are a good predictor for urinary tract infection during pregnancy, so early screening for pathogens and proper treatment for infected cases should be applied.
Assessment of Plasma Lipid Profile among Sudanese Menopausal Women in Khartoum state-Sudan
Authors: Hamza Alneil , Abbas Moadah , Elfaki Elyasa , Ibrahim Mariam , K Abdalhabib Ezeldine , Karar Tarig
Published: January 2020

Postmenopausal women tend to have significant changes in lipid profile when compared with premenopausal women. Incidence of cardiovascular disease after menopause believed to occur due to changes in the plasma lipid levels. This study was conducted to estimate and compare serum levels of total cholesterol(TC), triglycerides(TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) among Sudanese pre and postmenopausal women. 94 participant women were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. 47 post-menopause women age 48 - 70 years and 47 pre-menopause women age 25-47 years. Estimation of serum lipid profile was carried out using Biosystems colorimetric methods and results statistics were computed by using SPSS. A significant increase in total cholesterol(TC), triglyceride, and LDL-c with a significant decrease in (HDL-c) level among postmenopausal women where found, when compared with pre-menopause women (P-value= <0.05). Total cholesterol and LDL-C level were observed significantly increased according to three interval time duration of menopausal onset (p=0.009 and p=0.034). A positive correlation was observed between the age of and total cholesterol levels in postmenopausal women (R=0.463, P-value =0.001). Study results revealed that postmenopausal status was associated with substantial changes in lipid profile that considered risk factors for cardiovascular disease in Sudanese women.
Clinical Profile of Pediatric Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A study from National Referral Hospital in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Feinisa Khairani Astrid , Karina Manuela , Hanum Siswanti Listya , Milanti Dewi Mia
Published: January 2020

Diagnosing Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) in children is challenging due to its highly variable clinical presentation. However, the clinical profile still becomes the hallmark of diagnosis. Thus, this study was aimed at exploring the clinical profile of pediatric GBS. This is a retrospective study of clinical profile at a national referral hospital in West Java, Indonesia from January 2011‒December 2015. From a total of 40 patients, 27 complete medical records were included in the study. The gender distribution, females were outnumbered, male. Most patients were in preschool (4-5 years) and school-age (6-12 years) category. All patients had bilateral, progressive, and ascending pattern muscle weakness. Muscle weakness limited in legs was evident in 29.6% of patients. Sensory deficits were presented in 37%, autonomic dysfunction 14.8%, cranial nerve involvement 29.6%, and respiratory failure 11.1%. Most patients were discharged from the hospital with improvement. GBS profile in our pediatric patients has wide-ranging manifestation thus diagnosis criteria covering all patients are very important.
COMPARISON OF POLYMORPHISM rs3813865 CYTOCHROME P450 FAMILY 2 SUBFAMILY E POLYPEPTIDE 1 (CYP2E1) GENE IN VARIOUS CLINICAL STAGE OF UNDIFFERENTIATED TYPE NASOPHARYNGEAL CARCINOMA
Authors: Suanda I Ketut , Ardika Nuaba I Gde , Alit Ardianti Ni Made
Published: January 2020

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is caused by interaction of Epstein-Barr virus chronic infection, environtment, and genetic factors. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infect nasopharyngeal ephitelial cell in latent period. This infection will cause mutation and further causing malignancy. This is a cross-sectional study in undifferentiated type NPC patients after hystopatological examination and were examined in RSUP Sanglah Denpasar from January 2017 to December 2018. This study is using 62 subjects who meets inclusion criteria. Univariate analysis was done to show subject characteristics which include age, gender, occupation, clinical stage, gene allele and rs3813865 polymorphism CYP2E1 gene. Mean age of subject is 48.05 years with standard deviation of 10.86 years. The youngest is 17 years old and the oldest is 73 years old. The most are men as many as 47 subjects (75.8%), and the most occupation are government employee as many as 17 subjects (27.4%). The most clinical stage of undifferentiated type NPC are stage II as many as 7 subjects (11.3%). Based on TNM, the most are T4 as many as 32 subjects (51.6%), N3 as many as 21 subjects (33.9%), and M0 as many as 60 subjects (96.8%).
A Systematic Review of Energy Harvesting from Biomechanical Factors
Authors: C. Bajrang , Suganthi G. Vaira , Tamilselvi R. , Parisabeham M. , Nagaraj A.
Published: January 2020

Conversion of human mechanical energy to usable electrical energy may seem like something from science fiction for the earliest generation of electronical engineers. But owing to the recent scientific advancements, it is no longer just a fiction but a reality. Researchers are working hard-time to improvise this idea by making attractive advancements in the field every day. This particular advancement gets much attention because it seems to be the most likely candidate to limit the usage of batteries, which have become a paradigm in the commercial world. Harvesting human energy can eliminate the limitations of scientific advancements in the portable and implantable devices due to the usage of batteries as their power source. There are several methods by which energy can be harvested from human activities, including but not restricted to thermoelectric generation, piezoelectric generation and triboelectric generation. These biomechanical phenomena can be tamed for commercial electricity usage under various circumstances. This paper provides a detailed review on these methods and the advancements made so far by researchers all around the globe.