bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of the contradictory factors in algal CO2 sequestration with sustainable biofuel benefit
Authors: Liu Ziyu , LONDON) CHAOZONG LIU(UNIVERSITY , Han Shujun , Yang Xiaoyi
Published: January 2020

Background The purpose would discover the impacts of the contradictory factors in application of algae in CO2 sequestration with sustainable biofuel benefit. The quantitively assessment model and approach have been established coupling upstream CO2 source and deliverables with downstream algal biofuel deliverables at the uniform algae level of Nannochloropsis oceanica, which would be benefit for algae biofuel deliverables choice. The functional units have been defined at energy consumption (MJ) per final mass product (algae, jet biofuels by three refining pathways, biodiesels by three refining pathways) and energy consumption (MJ) per final energy yield (algae, jet biofuels, biodiesels). Computational framework is classified into three sub-models, including CO2 source and deliverable model, algae cultivation and deliverable model, refining process and biofuel deliverable model. This life cycle assessment investigated the following impacts: transportation distances and purification modes with flue gas CO2 concentrations, lipid content with specific productivity and CO2 biofixation coupling the nutrient supply, final products including algae, jet biofuel and biodiesel.Results Coupling the influence of transportation distances and purification modes on the energy consumption, flue gas with a wide range of CO2 concentration was compared for two type deliverables including algal CO2, edible CO2. flue gas with low CO2 concentration is appropriate for on-site algal CO2 deliverable within 10km while flue gas with above 95% CO2 is flexible to transportation distance and appropriate for edible CO2 deliverable. Specific productivities and CO2 fixation both comply with negatively logarithmic relationship with lipid contents. Coupling the effects of algae specific productivity and CO2 evaporation loss, the total CO2 fixation efficiencies were investigated above 90% at below 28 % lipid but obviously decrease at above 40% lipid. The nutrient supply enhances specific productivity and protein content but with indirect energy consumption. The total energy consumptions of different target products with upstream CO2 source and algae to downstream biofuel were calculated quantitatively on edible algae and general algae.Conclusions Biodieselwet and HTL-HRJ jet biofuel performed the priorities in energy consumption. Lipid content and profile defined biofuel deliverables in quantity and quality. The LCA indicated that allocation is a crucial issue to balance energy, environment and economy decision on target product choice and by-products. Coupling solar energy utilization and by-product of bioactive nutrients effects, the positive energy gains have been investigated at a wide range of lipid contents despite of jet biofuel or biodiesel. The results would enhance the interests in both LCA and application of algae in CO2 sequestration with sustainable biofuel benefit.
Low DLG2 gene expression, a link between 11q-deleted and MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma, causes forced cell cycle progression, and predicts poor patient survival.
Authors: Keane Simon , Ameen Sophie , Lindlöf Angelica , Ejeskär Katarina
Published: January 2020

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a childhood neural crest tumor. There are two groups of aggressive NBs, one with MYCN amplification, and another with 11q chromosomal deletion; these chromosomal aberrations are generally mutually exclusive. The DLG2 gene resides in the 11q-deleted region, thus makes it an interesting NB candidate tumor suppressor gene.
Methods
We evaluated the association of DLG2 gene expression in NB with patient outcomes, stage and MYCN status, using online microarray data combining independent NB patient data sets. Functional studies were also conducted using NB cell models and the fruit fly.
Results
Using the array data we concluded that higher DLG2 expression was positively correlated to patient survival. We could also see that expression of DLG2 was inversely correlated with MYCN status and tumor stage. Cell proliferation was lowered in both 11q-normal and 11q-deleted NB cells after DLG2 over expression, and increased in 11q-normal NB cells after DLG2 silencing. Higher level of DLG2 increased the percentage of cells in the G2/M phase and decreased the percentage of cells in the G1 phase. We detected increased protein levels of Cyclin A and Cyclin B in a fruit fly model over expressing dMyc or silencing dmDLG , indicating that both events results in enhanced cell cycling. Induced MYCN expression in NB cells, lowered DLG2 gene expression, this was confirmed in the fly, when dMyc was over expressed, the dmDLG protein level was lowered, indicating a link between Myc over expression and low dmDLG level.
Conclusion
We conclude that low DLG2 expression level forces cell cycle progression, and that it predicts poor NB patient survival. The low DLG2 expression level could be caused by either MYCN -amplification or 11q-deletion.
Moral structuring of children during the process of obtaining informed consent
Authors: Díaz-Pérez Anderson , Quiroz Elkin Navarro , MARENCO DILIA APARICIO
Published: January 2020

Background. Informed consent is an important factor in a child’s moral structure from which different types of doctor–patient relationships arise. Children’s autonomy is currently under discussion in terms of their decent treatment, beyond which it is perceived by clinicians and/or researchers. Methods. This is a transversal, qualitative study via a subjectivist approach and a interpretivist approach. The study was performed by conducting semi-structured interviews of 21 people by clinicians and researchers. Data analysis was performed with the SPSS 21® and Atlas Ti 7.0® programmes. Results. Influential practices in the doctor–patient relationship were approach and paternalistic. In the deliberative model, the child is expected to have a moral awareness of their care. The paternalistic model determined that submission was a way of structuring the child, since he or she is considered to be a subject of extreme care. Conclusions. The differentiated objectification [educational] process recognises the internal and external elements of the child. Informed consent proved to be the appropriate means for strengthening moral and structuring the child.
Current clinical practices of Saudi physiotherapists in stroke rehabilitation.
Authors: Alatawi Salem F
Published: January 2020

Background Physiotherapy seems to play an important role in stroke rehabilitation. Physiotherapist’s ability to assume responsibility for translating rehabilitation programmes to real clinical practice appeared to be one of the most important concept of stroke management.Objective This paper aims to investigate the current practice of Saudi Arabian physiotherapists working with patients diagnosed with stroke.Method An on-line questionnaire is designed by focusing physiotherapists who are working with stroke rehabilitation in Saudi Arabia during August-October 2019 was used. Questionnaire is consisted of 7 sections with 40 items that are related to stroke rehabilitation such as treatment approach, aim of treatment, pertaining to tone facilitation of movement, function and motor rehabilitation. Quantitative data analysis was conducted by using SPSS.Results Questionnaire survey was distributed among 287 physiotherapists; out of them 197 participants have returned completed questionnaires (68.6%). Based on the results analysed it is shown that physiotherapists preferred Bobath/NDT approach (77.66%), followed by PNF/Brunnstorm (63.45%) and Constrained induced movement therapy (25.38%), respectively. Despite of the fact that respondents have agreed on different treatment approaches; however, there is variation observed between participants in some sections of the survey. Thus, it is highlighted that the developed interventions in stroke rehabilitation are still considered as controversial and inconclusive as variations are observed in between patients’ groups and outcome measures.Conclusion Variation has been observed in between therapists while treatment application approaches in stroke rehabilitation. Future studies might focus on the investigation of how and why practitioners use or do not use evidence in this area.
Efficacy of Adalimumab on Severe Sapho Syndrome Likely Triggered by Isotretinoin
Authors: Luzzati Michele , Filippeschi Cesare , Giani Teresa , Trapani Sandra
Published: January 2020

Background SAPHO (synovitis, acne, pustolosis, hyperostosis and osteitis) syndrome is a rare autoinflammatory chronic disorder, presenting with non-infectious inflammatory osteitis, sterile joint inflammation and skin manifestations including palmoplantar pustolosis and severe acne. It could be often misdiagnosed for its heterogeneous clinical presentation. Isotretinoin, which is commonly used for severe acne treatment, has been rarely described as possible trigger of osteo-articular manifestations, in particular sacroiliitis. Various biological treatment have been proposed in refractory patients.Case presentation The case of an adolescent male, affected by acne fulminans and depression, who presented with sacroiliitis after a 10-week treatment with isotretinoin is presented and discussed. After SAPHO diagnosis, the boy started NSAIDs therapy but the onset of bilateral gluteal hidradenitis suppurativa required the switch to a tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α antagonist (adalimumab). Despite specific therapy with sertraline, the patient continued to complain severe depression, this symptom has been widely reported in patient with SAPHO.Conclusions Our case strengthens the hypothesis that isotretinoin could be a trigger of musculoskeletal involvement in SAPHO. The occurrence of hidradenitis suppurativa as additional clinical feature of SAPHO, already described in literature, supported the TNF-α blocker’s commencement in our patient. Furthermore, the good outcome of our case confirms the efficacy of ADA treatment in obtaining persistent clinical remission of cutaneous and osteoarticular symptoms in SAPHO syndrome.
Prefilled pen versus prefilled syringe: evaluation of methotrexate subcutaneous intake method in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis – results of the pilot study
Authors: Roszkiewicz Justyna , Swacha Zbigniew , Smolewska Elzbieta
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND Methotrexate is the most commonly used disease-modifying antirheumatic drug recommended in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It can be administered orally or subcutaneously, the latter method is associated with fewer side effects and higher drug bioavailability. Nevertheless, the pain associated with injection is a considerable drawback of this treatment option in the pediatric population. Currently, there are two single-use subcutaneous injection devices available: the prefilled syringe and the prefilled pen. This prospective, two-sequence crossover study aimed to compare ease of use, frequency of therapy side effects, injection-site pain and patient preference of those methotrexate parenteral delivery systems.METHODS 23 patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, already treated with subcutaneous methotrexate in the form of prefilled syringe in the period October 2018 – April 2019 completed a questionnaire evaluating their experience with this device. Subsequently, children received a one-month supply of pen autoinjector and completed the same questionnaire, regarding their experience with the new methotrexate delivery system. The results obtained in both questionnaires were compared using the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test.RESULTS 82,6% patients and their caregivers voted for the prefilled pen as their preferred method of subcutaneous methotrexate administration. Moreover, the injection with the prefilled pen was reported as less painful in comparison to the prefilled syringe (p<0.01). Side effects of methotrexate were less pronounced after the prefilled pen treatment, this difference was most prominent regarding gastrointestinal adverse events associated with the injection (p<0.01).CONCLUSIONS Administration of methotrexate using the pen device is a promising way of subcutaneous methotrexate delivery in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, as the injection is less painful and associated with fewer side effects.
Evidence-based educational pathway and teaching materials for first aid training of children in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: De Buck Emmy , Laermans Jorien , Vanhove Anne-Catherine , Dockx Kim , Vandekerckhove Philippe , Geduld Heike
Published: January 2020

Background First aid training is a cost-effective way to decrease the burden of disease and injury in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Since evidence from Western countries has shown that children are able to learn first aid, first aid training of children in LMIC may be a promising way forward. Hence, our project aim was to develop evidence-based contextualized materials to train Sub-Saharan African children in first aid. Methods Systematic literature searches were conducted to identify studies on first aid education to children up to 18 years old (research question one), and studies investigating different teaching approaches (broader than first aid) in LMIC (research question two). A multidisciplinary expert panel translated the evidence to the context of Sub-Saharan Africa, and evidence and expert input were used to develop teaching materials. Results For question one, we identified 58 studies, measuring the effect of training children in resuscitation, first aid for skin wounds, poisoning etc. For question two, two systematic reviews were included from which we selected 36 studies, revealing the effectiveness of several pedagogical methods, such as problem-solving instruction and small-group instruction. Expert input was useful for placing the evidence against the African context. Conclusions The above approach resulted in an educational pathway (i.e. a scheme with educational goals concerning first aid for different age groups), a list of recommended educational approaches, and evidence-based first aid teaching materials for children, adapted to the African context.
Synergy of policies to strengthen primary care: evidence from a national repeated cross-sectional study
Authors: Jin Yinzi , Xu Jin , Zhu Weiming , Zhang Yaoguang , Xu Ling , Meng Qingyue
Published: January 2020

Objective People bypass primary healthcare (PHC) institutions to seek expensive healthcare at high-level hospitals, leading to escalating medical costs and inefficient use of resources. In 2009, China launched nationwide synergic policies on primary care strengthening, to tackle access to healthcare and financial protection. This study aimed to assess the impact of the two policy areas, health insurance and health workforce, on healthcare seeking behavior.Methods Drawing on national survey data before (2008) and after (2013) the policies, we linked individual-level data on healthcare-seeking behavior with county-level data on health workforce and health insurance. We constructed a multilevel zero-inflated negative binomial regression to examine the impacts of average reimbursement rate (ARR) of health insurance and the density of registered physicians on outpatient/inpatient visits, and multilevel multinomial logistic regression for the impacts on choice of outpatient/inpatient care providers.Results Although the increase in health insurance ARR and physician density have positive impacts on individuals’ healthcare use, their impacts might be weakened during 2008 and 2013, and the negative impacts of investment of those in PHC institutions on likelihood of visiting hospitals was larger. The negative impacts of ARR at PHC institutions on likelihood of visiting county-, municipal- and higher-level hospitals in 2013 was 28 percentage points, 66 percentage points and 33 percentage points larger than these in 2008.Conclusion Primary care strengthening requires synergic policies. Effective mechanisms for coordination across multisectoral actions are necessities for deepening those policies to ensure efficient delivery of healthcare without experiencing financial risks.
Changes in Provision of Social Support among the Older Population in Nine European Countries during 2004—2015: A panel data analysis
Authors: Lestari Septi Kurnia , de Luna Xavier , Eriksson Malin , Malmberg Gunnar , Ng Nawi
Published: January 2020

Background : Providing support to others may be beneficial for older adults. As people age, their health and social relationships change. These changes may relate to change in social support provision as well. We examined the trajectory of social support provision by older people in three European regions throughout eleven years of follow-up. We then examined the extent to which age, gender, and region (represents welfare state regime) influenced the variations in the trajectory. Methods :Data collected from 8,354 respondents who had completed at least waves 1 and 6 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) was analysed. Social support provision was determined from asking a single question regarding whether the respondent provided help personally for people outside their household. Region, sex, and age were the main predictors tested. We used growth model to address the aims of this study. Results :The northern European region (Sweden and Denmark) had the highest odds ratio of providing social support. The likelihood of social support provision decreases by 10% yearly (OR: 0.901, 95%CI: 0.878,0.925) over 11 years of follow-up. Older respondents were less likely to provide support and their trajectories declined faster the younger respondents. Gender difference in social support provision was more apparent among younger older people in the southern European region. Conclusions : European older adults are important source of support, especially for their family. The probability of social support provision by European older adults declines over time. Age, gender and welfare state regime predict this trajectory.
Reliability and validity of Mandarin (Simplified) version of Head and Neck Cancer-specific Supportive Care Needs (SCNS-HNC) scale
Authors: LYU Jianxia , Yin Li , Cheng Ping , Li Bin , Peng Shanshan , Yang Chunlian , Yang Jing , Liang Haixin , Jiang Qinghua
Published: January 2020

Background To translate the English version of supportive care needs scale of head and neck cancer patients (SCNS-HNC) questionnaire into Mandarin (Simplified), and to test reliability and validity. Methods The With authorization of the English version scale were obtained from Professor Irma M. Verdonck-de Leeuw who worked at VU University Medical Center of Cancer Center Amsterdam (CCA), in the Netherlands. The Mandarin (Simplified) version of the SCNS-HNC scale was developed by translation, back-translation and cultural adaptation. The Mandarin (Simplified) version of Supportive Care Needs Survey Short-Form (SCNS-SF34) and SCNS-HNC scales were used to measure 206 patients with head and neck cancer in a upper first-class hospital in Chengdu. Among them, 51 patients were re-tested 2 or 3 days after the first survey. The internal consistency of the scale was evaluated by Cronbach's alpha coefficient, the retest reliability of the scale was evaluated by retest correlation coefficient r, the structural validity of the scale was evaluated by exploratory factor analysis, and the ceiling and floor effects of the scale were evaluated. Item-domain correlation analysis was used to evaluate the collective validity and differential validity of the scale. Results The Mandarin (Simplified) version of SCNS-HNC had Cronbach's alpha coefficients of more than 0.700 (0.737 ≤ 0.962)for the all of the domians. Except for the psychological demand dimension of SCNS-SF34 scale, the retest reliability in other fields was more than 0.8. Three common factors were extracted by exploratory factor analysis, and the cumulative variance contribution rate was 64.39%. The correlation coefficient of all items in Mandarin (Simplified) version of SCNS-SF34and SCNS-HNC with their own domians were higher than those with otherdomians. Conclusion The Mandarin (Simplified) of SCNS-HNC demonstrates satisfactory reliability and validity, which is available for measurement of the supportive care needs of Chinese patients with head and neck cancer.Clinical registration number: ChiCTR1900026635
Honokiol-Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Inhibit Vascular Restenosis via the Suppression of TGF-β Signaling PathwayHonokiol-Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Inhibit Vascular Restenosis via the Suppression of TGF-β Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wei Xiao , Wang Yu , Fang Zhiwei , Lu Ping , Yuan Wei-En
Published: January 2020

Background and aims: MSNPs improves the solubility of drugs through physical, chemical and other interactions, and can be used to overcome the defects of poor water-solubility of drugs. We used MSNPs standard substance to encapsulate honokiol and then assemble into honokiol-mesoporous silica nanoparticles, and we investigated the effect of these nanoparticles on the process of restenosis after common carotid artery injury in rats.Results: Here, we report a promising delivery system that load honokiol into mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs), and finally assemble into a nano composite particle. This HNK-MSNPs not merely inhibit proliferation and migration of VSMCs by reducing phosphorylation of Smad3 but also showed a higher suppression of vascular restenosis than the free-honokiol form in a rat model of balloon injury. Conclusions: This drug delivery system supplies a potent nano-platform for the intracellular delivery of honokiol to VSMCs and shows a promising use for the future clinical trial.
The Effect of Preoperative Anxiety Level on Mean Platelet Volume and Propofol Consumption
Authors: uysal ali ihsan , Altıparmak Başak , Toker Melike Korkmaz , Dede Gülseda , Sezgin Çiğdem , Demirbilek Semra Gümüş
Published: January 2020

Background: The mean platelet volume (MPV) is an important indicator of platelet function with large platelets showing higher enzymatic and metabolic activity than other platelets. There can be a relationship between increased platelet activity and anxiety and depression. Our primary hypothesis was that patients with high anxiety scores would have higher MPV, and the secondary hypothesis was that propofol induction time and total propofol consumption within the first 30 min of surgery would be higher in patients with higher anxiety scores.
Methods: The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) was administered to the participating patients one day before surgery to evaluate the level of anxiety. Based on the scores from the BAI, 40 patients with an anxiety score of <8 were assigned to the non-anxious group (Group NA) and 40 patients with an anxiety score of ³8 were assigned to the anxious group (Group A). At the anesthesia induction the mean time to achieve an entropy value below 60 (T1) was recorded. The total intraoperative propofol consumption within the first 30 min was recorded.
Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of preoperative MPV and demographic data, including age and sex. The mean total propofol consumption at 30 min after induction in the groups was statistically significant. The cut-off value for MPV was calculated as 9.65.
Conclusions: The preoperative MPV values and propofol consumption at 30 minutes among patients with high preoperative anxiety scores were high. We suggest that MPV is helpful in the clinical practice in predicting the amount of anesthetic agents required for the induction of anesthesia.
The draft genome of horseshoe crab Tachypleus tridentatus reveals its evolutionary scenario and well-developed innate immunity
Authors: Zhou Yan , Liang Yuan , Yan Qing , Zhang Liang , Chen Dianbao , Ruan Lingwei , Kong Yuan , Shi Hong , Chen Mingliang , Chen Jianming
Published: January 2020

Background: Horseshoe crabs are ancient marine arthropods with a long evolutionary history extending back approximately 450 million years, which may benefit from their innate immune systems. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying their abilities of distinguishing and defending against invading microbes are still unclear.
Results: Here, we describe the 2.06 Gbp genome assembly of Tachypleus tridentatus with 24,222 predicted protein-coding genes. Comparative genomics shows that T. tridentatus and the Atlantic horseshoe crab Limulus polyphemus have the most orthologues shared among two species, including genes involved in the immune-related JAK-STAT signalling pathway. Divergence time dating results show that the last common ancestor of Asian horseshoe crabs (including T. tridentatus and C. rotundicauda ) and L. polyphemus appeared approximately 130 Mya (121-141), and the split of the two Asian horseshoe crabs was dated to approximately 63 Mya (57-69). Hox gene analysis suggests two clusters in both horseshoe crab assemblies. Surprisingly, selective analysis of immune-related gene families revealed the high expansion of conserved pattern recognition receptors. Genes involved in the IMD and JAK-STAT signal transduction pathways also exhibited a certain degree of expansion in both genomes. Intact coagulation cascade-related genes were present in the T. tridentatus genome with a higher number of coagulation factor genes. Moreover, most reported antibacterial peptides have been identified in T. tridentatus with their potentially effective antimicrobial sites.
Conclusions: The draft genome of T. tridentatus would would provide important evidence for further clarifying the taxonomy and evolutionary relationship of Chelicerata. The expansion of conserved immune signalling pathway genes, coagulation factors and intact antimicrobial peptides in T. tridentatus constitutes its robust and effective innate immunity for self-defence in marine environments with an enormous number of invading pathogens and may affect the quality of the adaptive properties with regard to complicated marine environments.
The approach to modeling the value of statistical life using average per capita income
Authors: Levytskyi Stanislav , Gneushev Oleksandr , Makhlinets Vasyl
Published: January 2020

The problem of determining the value of statistical life in Ukraine in order to find ways to improve it is an urgent one now. The current level of value is analyzed, which is a direct consequence of the poor quality of life of a citizen, hence his low level. The description of the basic theoretical and methodological approaches to the estimation of the cost of human life is given. Based on the analysis, a number of hypotheses have been advanced about the use of statistical calculations to achieve the modeling objectives. Model calculations are based on the example of Zaporozhye Oblast statistics for 2018–2019. The article elaborates the approach to the estimation of the economic equivalent of the cost of living on the basis of demographic indicators and average per capita income, and also analyzes the possibilities of their application in the realities of the national economy. Using Statistica, the regression equation parameters were determined for statistical data of population distribution of Zaporizhzhia region by age groups for 2018. The calculation parameters were also found using the Excel office application, using the Solution Finder option to justify the quantitative range of metric values. It is proved that the proposed approach to modeling and calculations are simpler and more efficient than the calculation methods proposed earlier. The study concluded that the value of statistical life in Ukraine is significantly undervalued.
DEMOKRASİLERDE DARBE GEÇİRMEZLİĞE YAKINDAN BAKMAK: SİVİL-ASKER İLİŞKİLERİNDE İSPANYA ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: İLTER AKARÇAY Rukiye Ebru
Published: January 2020

Darbe geçirmezlik, demokratik rejimler ve alternatiflerinin devamlılığını sağlamaya yönelik bir stratejiler bütünü olarak tanımlanmaktadır. Demokratik sistemlerin de darbe riskiyle karşılaşabildikleri savı kabul görse de, irdelenen önlemler çoğunlukla zayıf demokratik karnelere sahip sistemlerin uygulayabilecekleri türdendir. Demokrasiye geçiş ve pekişme dönemlerindeki darbe girişimleri ve bu girişimlerin tekrarının önünü almak için atılan adımlar seyrek olarak mercek altına alınmaktadır. Çalışmanın başlıca hedefi, demokratikleşen sistemlerde darbe geçirmezlik stratejilerinin izlerini aramaktır. İspanya’nın serüveni, darbe girişimlerinden demokrasinin gelişimine katkı yapacak dersler çıkarılabileceği ve tekrarlanma ihtimalinin önünün alınabileceğine işaret etmektedir. Demokrasiye geçişte örnek teşkil ettiğine inanılan İspanya’nın adımları, demokratik rejimin kalitesini zedelemeden uygulanabilecek önlemlere ilişkin fikir vermektedir. Siyasal liberalleşme, atamalarla kadro yapısını dönüştürme, yatıştırma, sınırlı cezalandırma, birleştirerek yönetme yollarıyla darbe geçirmezlik hedeflenirken, uluslararası ittifak arayışları süreçteki riskleri yönetmek için başvurulan yöntem olarak öne çıkmaktadır. Temel bulgu, darbe geçirmezlik üzerine süregelen kuramsal tartışmalardan ayrışacak şekilde, asgari cezalandırma ile tek çatı altında toplamaya yönelik adımlarla demokratik pekişmenin güvence altına alınabildiğidir.
Marine Natural Products with High Anticancer Activities
Authors: Matulja Dario , Wittine Karlo , Malatesti Nela , Laclef Sylvain , Turks Maris , Markovic Maria Kolympadi , Ambrožić Gabriela , Marković Dean
Published: January 2020

This review covers recent literature from 2012-2019 concerning 170 marine natural products and their semisynthetic analogues with strong anticancer biological activities. Reports that shed light on cellular and molecular mechanisms and biological functions of these compounds, thus advancing the understanding in cancer biology are also included. Biosynthetic studies and total syntheses, which have provided access to derivatives and have contributed to the proper structure or stereochemistry elucidation or revision are mentioned. The natural compounds isolated from marine organisms are divided into nine groups, namely: alkaloids, sterols and steroids, glycosides, terpenes and terpenoids, macrolides, polypeptides, quinones, phenols and polyphenols, and miscellaneous products. An emphasis is placed on several drugs originating from marine natural products that have already been marketed or are currently in clinical trials.
Research Progress of 70 kDa Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase (P70S6K) Inhibitors as Effective Therapeutic Tools for Obesity, Type II Diabetes and Cancer
Authors: Zhang Na , Ma Shutao
Published: January 2020

At present, diseases such as obesity, type Ⅱ diabetes and cancer have brought serious health
problems, which are closely related to mTOR pathway. 70 kDa ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K),
as a significant downstream effector of mTOR, mediates protein synthesis, RNA processing, glucose
homeostasis, cell growth and apoptosis. Inhibiting the function of p70S6K can reduce the risk of obesity
which helps to treat dyslipidemia, enhance insulin sensitivity, and extend the life span of mammals.
Therefore, p70S6K has become a potential target for the treatment of these diseases. So far, except for
the first p70S6K specific inhibitor PF-4708671 developed by Pfizer and LY2584702 developed by
Lilai, all of them are in preclinical research. This paper briefly introduces the general situation of
p70S6K and reviews their inhibitors in recent years, which are mainly classified into two categories:
natural compounds and synthetic compounds. In particular, their inhibitory activities, structure-activity
relationships (SARs) and mechanisms are highlighted.
Insights into RNA-dependent RNA Polymerase Inhibitors as Antiinfluenza Virus Agents
Authors: Giacchello Ilaria , Musumeci Francesca , D’Agostino Ilaria , Greco Chiara , Grossi Giancarlo , Schenone Silvia
Published: January 2020

Background:

Influenza is a seasonal disease that affects millions of people every year and
has a significant economic impact. Vaccines are the best strategy to fight this viral pathology, but they
are not always available or administrable, prompting the search for antiviral drugs. RNA-dependent
RNA polymerase (RdRp) recently emerged as a promising target because of its key role in viral replication
and its high conservation among viral strains.

Discussion:

This review presents an overview of the most interesting RdRp inhibitors that have been
discussed in the literature since 2000. Compounds already approved or in clinical trials and a selection
of inhibitors endowed with different scaffolds are described, along with the main features responsible
for their activity.

Results:

RdRp inhibitors are emerging as a new strategy to fight viral infections and the importance
of this class of drugs has been confirmed by the FDA approval of baloxavir marboxil in 2018. Despite
the complexity of the RdRp machine makes the identification of new compounds a challenging research
topic, it is likely that in the coming years, this field will attract the interest of a number of academic
and industrial scientists because of the potential strength of this therapeutic approach.
Inhibition of β-amyloid Aggregation of Ugni molinae Extracts
Authors: Jara-Moreno Daniela , Riveros Ana L. , Barriga Andrés , Kogan Marcelo J. , Delporte Carla
Published: January 2020

The β-amyloid peptide (1-42) is a molecule capable of aggregating into neurotoxic structures that have
been implicated as potential etiological factors of Alzheimer's Disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the
inhibition of β-amyloid aggregation of ethyl acetate and ethanolic extracts obtained from Ugni molinae leaves on
neurotoxic actions of β-amyloid aggregates. Chemical analyses were carried out with the extracts in order to
determine their phenolic profile and its quantification. Both extracts showed a tendency to reduce neuronal deaths
caused by β-amyloid. This tendency was inversely proportional to the evaluated concentrations. Moreover, the
effect of EAE and ETE on β-amyloid aggregation was studied by fluorimetric T Thioflavin assay and transmission
electronic microscopy (TEM); the extracts showed a modulation in the aggregation process. Partly, it is
believed that these effects can be attributed to the polyphenolic compounds present in the extracts.
Attachment in Patients with Bipolar and Unipolar Depression: A Comparison with Clinical and Non-clinical Controls
Authors: Picardi Angelo , Pallagrosi Mauro , Fonzi Laura , Martinotti Giovanni , Caroppo Emanuele , Meldolesi Giulio Nicolò , Di Gennaro Giancarlo , De Risi Marco , Biondi Massimo
Published: January 2020

Background:

A link between depression and insecure attachment has long been postulated. Although many studies examined the relationship between depressive symptoms and attachment, relatively few studies were performed on patients diagnosed with depression. Also, research on patients with bipolar disorder is scarce.

Objective:

We aimed at testing the association between attachment insecurity and unipolar and bipolar depression.

Methods:

We studied 21 patients with bipolar disorder, current episode depressed, and three age- and sex-matched groups, each consisting of 21 individuals: patients with major depressive disorder, recurrent episode; patients with epilepsy; non-clinical participants. The Experience in Close Relationships questionnaire was used to assess adult attachment style.

Results:

Patients with both bipolar and unipolar depression displayed significantly higher scores on attachment-related avoidance as compared with patients with epilepsy and non-clinical participants. Also, patients with bipolar depression scored significantly higher on attachment-related anxiety than all other groups. In both psychiatric groups, attachment dimensions were not significantly correlated with global clinical severity or severity of depression.

Conclusion:

Despite some study limitations, our results are consistent with some previous studies and provide support to Bowlby's seminal hypothesis that attachment insecurity may predispose to depression. Attachment theory may provide a valuable theoretical framework for future research and for guiding treatment.
Vitamin D and Multiple Sclerosis: An Open-Ended Story
Authors: Scazzone Concetta , Agnello Luisa , Lo Sasso Bruna , Ciaccio Anna Maria , Giglio Rosaria V , Bivona Giulia , Ciaccio Marcello
Published: January 2020

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the Central Nervous System (CNS). Genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors interact together, contributing to the complex pathogenesis of the disease. In the last decades, the role of hypovitaminosis D on MS risk was hypothesised. Several factors drive the regulation of vitamin D status, including genetics. The current review summarises the literature evidence on the association between vitamin D and MS, with a focus on the genetic polymorphisms in vitamin D-related genes. The variants of the genes codifying Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), Vitamin D Binding Protein (VDBP) and CYP enzymes have been investigated, but the findings are controversial. Only a few studies have addressed the role of DHCR7 polymorphisms in MS risk.
Transportation of Donated Hearts by Drone in Comparison to Road-Bound Vehicles in Mexico City
Authors: Al-Ayyad Muhammad , Al-Ghraibah Amani , Alkhatib Husam
Published: January 2020

Background:

Organ transportation between hospitals has many challenges since the harvested organ needs to be transplanted to the recipient within an optimal time frame. It is important to transfer the organ from the donor to the recipient site quickly and professionally.

Aim:

The aim of this research is to investigate whether the transportation of donated hearts by drones is more efficient than transportation using road-bound vehicles.

Methods:

A simulation using MatLab software was performed to calculate the heart transportation time between three different hospitals in Mexico City by road-bound vehicles and by drones. This simulation was performed to demonstrate how congestion and traffic in Mexico City prevent healthy hearts from being transplanted to patients on time. The 24-hour period was divided into four 5-hour periods and these were chosen to be: Period 1 (22:00-03:00), Period 2 (04:00-09:00), Period 3 (10:00-15:00) and Period 4 (16:00-21:00).

Results:

The time it took to travel between the hospitals by car within each of the 5-hour periods was calculated. It was observed that, in period 2, a high volume of traffic was present causing road-bound vehicles to take a longer time to deliver hearts to hospitals. All hospitals were within reach of each other if the hearts were to be transported by drone and the delivery time by drone in all cases was less than 1.88 hours, which is the optimum time for the harvested heart to be transported without risk from the donor to the recipient.

Conclusion:

Using drones will increase the safety of transplants, reduce the heart transplantation waiting list and eventually, heart transplantation may be possible in different areas of the city at rush hour times.
The Effect of slit-friction hybrid damper on the Performance of Dual System
Authors: Khoshkroodi Azadeh , Sani Hossein Parvini
Published: January 2020

Aims:

The aim of the present paper is to evaluate the behavior of slit friction hybrid dampers (SFHD) on steel structures. Therefore, the behavior moment resisting steel frames of structures in original stats and structures equipped with hybrid damper with two different types of behavior was analyzed and evaluated.

Background:

The recent study evaluated the combined effect of shear-friction dampers and slit dampers with measurements of non-uniform strips in seismic protection for different levels of energy. The recent study was carried out a about hybrid dampers, consisting of friction and split dampers in response to small and large earthquakes. Previous results have shown the ability of inactive hybrid systems in improving the reaction of structures to traditional lateral-systems. Kim and Shin showed that structures consisted of hybrid dampers needed less repair cost and time.

Methods:

Pushover and time history were carried out on original structures and structures equipped with dampers, in 5 and 10 stories structures.

Results:

Analysis about the probability of collapse showed about 30% and 84%.

Conclusion:

According to the result, by adding the SFHD, increased stiffness by 17% in retrofitted structures such as drift and displacement of roof decreases by 27% and 20% in push over analysis, respectively. Also, displacement in time history analysis up to 55% reduces in average. Also, the results of the IDA show that adding the SFHD to structures significantly increases by 55% the spectral acceleration capacity in structures.
Diabetes Mellitus Complications and Associated Factors Among Adult Diabetic Patients in Selected Hospitals of West Ethiopia
Authors: Korsa Ayana Tadesse , Genemo Edao Sado , Bayisa Habte Gebeyehu , Dedefo Mohammed Gebre
Published: January 2020

Background / Introduction:

The prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing worldwide. The prevalence might even be higher in low-income countries. As a result, type 1 and type 2 DM and their complications are imposing a high burden on patients (e.g. hospitalization, disability and death). In Ethiopia, there are limited studies focusing on the complications of type 1 and type 2 DM. Thus, we assessed the prevalence of type 1 and type 2 DM complications and associated factors in selected hospitals in western Ethiopia.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 257 adult patients with DM attending the chronic care clinics of Nedjo general and Nekemte referral hospitals. The study was carried out between March 1 and April 30, 2016 using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire and chart review.

Results:

Of the 257 patients, 87 (33.9%) had ≥1 DM complication. Acute and chronic complications accounted for 9.3% and 24.5% of the total DM patients, respectively. The age of the patients (p=0.024), family history of DM (p=0.038), DM duration (p=0.015), DM regimen (p=0.041), and the occurrence of other chronic diseases (p=0.006) were significantly associated with DM complications.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study revealed that 1 out of 3 adults with DM have ≥1 complication in our chronic ambulatory care clinics. Diabetic keto-acidosis was the most common acute complication whereas hypertension was the most common chronic complication. The presence of DM complications was associated with the age of the patients, duration of DM, family history of DM, DM regimen and the presence of other chronic diseases.
Metagenomic Assessment of Different Interventions for Treatment of Chronic Periodontitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alblowi Jazia A. , Gamal-Abdel Naser Ayat
Published: January 2020

Background:

Chronic periodontitis is attributed to oral microbial imbalance and host inflammatory reaction.

Objective:

Our review addresses the question of: Are the available interventions able to regain oral microbial balance in patients having chronic periodontitis?

Data Sources:

We performed a comprehensive systematic search of MEDLine via Pubmed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Clinicalkey, Clarivate Analytics, Springer materials, Wiley, SAGE, Elsevier, Taylor & Francis group, and Wolter Kluwer, together with hand searching and searching the grey literature.

Eligibility Criteria:

We included interventional studies testing the microbiome analysis using metagenomic techniques as an outcome to any intervention for chronic periodontitis.

Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods:

All studies were imported in Mendeley. The risk of bias was assessed using the specific tool for each study design. The results were analysed using RevMan. All the review steps were performed in duplicates.

Results:

The search yielded 2700 records. After exclusion steps, 10 records were found eligible. We included 5 RCTs, 1 non-RCT, 3 before-and-after studies, and 1 ongoing study. The studies tested non-surgical periodontal treatment with and without antibiotic coverage, probiotics, sodium hypochlorite rinse, and different toothpaste ingredients. One RCT tested the use of enamel matrix derivatives in cases with furcation involvement.

Limitations:

The eligible available studies were small in number. Also, the risk of bias and lack of a standardized protocol impaired the ability to pool all the results.

Conclusions:

The body of the available evidence is not sufficient, and future studies are recommended to better evaluate the effect of periodontal treatments on the periodontal microbiome.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oil and Hydrosol Extract From Roots of Plumbago europaea and in-vitro Combinatory Antimicrobial Effect of Hydrosol Extract with Gentamicin and Amphotericin B
Authors: Kaddour Faiza , Aissaoui Nadia , Dib Mohammed El Amine , Bensaid Okkacha , Muselli Alain
Published: January 2020

Background:

Infectious diseases are responsible for millions of deaths a year worldwide.
Antibiotics, which have saved so many lives and improved life expectancy, may become ineffective
due to a worrying increase in bacterial resistance. Some of the appropriate actions that could be initiated
to address this problem are to develop and search for new antimicrobial substances from medicinal
plants, and combine antibiotics with antimicrobials agents isolated from a reservoir of bioactive
natural products.

Objectives:

The purpose of this work was to study the chemical composition of the essential oil and hydrosol extract of Plumbago europaea, to evaluate their in-vitro antimicrobial activities and evaluate in-vitro combinatory antimicrobial effect of hydrosol extract with Gentamicin and Amphotericin B against a large panel of microorganisms in an effort to reduce their minimum effective dose and minimizing their side effects.

Methods:

The essential oil and hydrosol extract obtained from roots of Plumbago europaea were analyzed by GC/MS and tested for their antibacterial and antifungal activities against twelve different strains of microorganisms. The effectiveness, in-vitro, of the association between the hydrosol extract and both Gentamicin and Amphotericin B was also investigated using the checkerboard method.

Results:

The obtained results revealed that nine and four components, representing for 92.4 % and 97.4% of the total essential oil and hydrosol extract composition were identified, respectively and hydrosol extract was more active than the essential oil against all screened microorganisms, with interesting MIC values (19 μg/mL). An important effect of hydrosol extract was obtained in decreasing the MIC of Gentamicin and Amphotericin B in all tested combinations.

Conclusion:

The in-vitro combination of the hydrosol extract with Gentamicin and Amphotericin B led to substantial MIC reduction against all tested microorganisms. This combination can help to reduce the minimum effective dose of antimicrobial drugs used, which may help to decrease their side effects; and deliver these medicines with similar potency.
Ingo Berensmeyer, Gert Buelens and Marysa Demoor (eds.), The Cambridge Handbook of Literary Authorship. Cambridge University Press, 2019.
Authors: Bennett Andrew
Published: January 2020

A review of Ingo Berensmeyer, Gert Buelens and Marysa Demoor's (eds.) The Cambridge Handbook of Literary Authorship. Cambridge University Press, 2019.