bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glucose Uptake Activity and Cytotoxicity of Abietane Diterpenes and Triterpenes Isolated from Lamiaceae Plant Species
Authors: Etsassala Ninon G.E.R. , Ndjoubi Kadidiatou O. , Mbira Thilly J. , Pearce Brendon , Pearce Keenau , Iwuoha Emmanuel. I , Hussein Ahmed A. , Benjeddou Mongi
Published: July 2020

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), considered one of the most common metabolic disorders, has dramatically increased and resulted in higher rate of morbidity and mortality around the world, in the past decade. It is well known that insulin resistance in target tissues and a deficiency in insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells are the main characteristic of type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was the bio-evaluation of compounds isolated from three selected plant species; namely, Salvia africana-lutea, Leonotis ocymifolia and Plectranthus madagascariensis, for their glucose uptake ability. Methanolic extracts were produced from the arterial part of each plant. Compounds were identified using different spectroscopic techniques. The glucose uptake ability of each compound was then evaluated in mammalian cells using 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate. The cytotoxicity of each compound was established via the MTT assay. Chromatographic purification of the three plant species yielded fifteen pure terpenoids. Compounds 1 (p = 0.0031), 8 (p = 0.0053), and 6 (p = 0.0086), showed a marked increase in glucose uptake, with p values of p=0.0031, p=0.0053 and p=0.0086, respectively. Additionally, 1, 4 and 6 exhibited cytotoxicity toward mammalian tissue with a decrease in cell viability of ~70%, ~68% and ~67%, respectively. The results suggested that several compounds demonstrated a marked increase in glucose uptake while two of the compounds exhibited signs of cytotoxicity. It may, therefore, be suggested that these compounds be considered as potential candidates for novel plant-derived alternative therapies in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Did a Complex Carbon Cycle Operate in the Inner Solar System?
Authors: Nuth Joseph A. , Ferguson Frank , Hill Hugh , Johnson Natasha
Published: July 2020

Solids in the interstellar medium consist of an intimate mixture of silicate and carbonaceous grains. Because 99% of silicates in meteorites were reprocessed at high temperatures in the inner regions of the Solar Nebula, we propose that similar levels of heating of carbonaceous materials in the oxygen-rich Solar Nebula would have converted nearly all carbon in dust and grain coatings to CO. We discuss catalytic experiments on a variety of grain surfaces that not only produce gas-phase species such as CH4, C2H6, C6H6, C6H5OH or CH3CN, but also produce carbonaceous solids and fibers that would be much more readily incorporated into growing planetesimals. CO and other more volatile products of these surface mediated reactions were likely transported outwards along with chondrule fragments and small Calcium Aluminum Inclusions (CAIs) to enhance the organic content in the outer regions of the nebula where comets formed. Carbonaceous fibers formed on the surfaces of refractory oxides may have significantly improved the aggregation efficiency of chondrules and CAIs. Carbonaceous fibers incorporated into chondritic parent bodies might have served as the carbon source for the generation of more complex organic species during thermal or hydrous metamorphic processes on the evolving asteroid.
Effect of Structural Parameters and Materials on the Mechanical Characteristics of Expansion Tube
Authors: Qi Zizhen , Zhang Yuwu , Lin and Yuliang
Published: July 2020

Expansion tube is ideal energy absorber which dissipates kinetic energy through plastic deformation and friction. There is an urgent need to understand the influence of key parameter, e.g. semi angle, tube material, and friction coefficient, on the mechanical response and energy absorption characteristics of expansion tube. In the present work, the material properties of the tubes were tested under quasi-static loading condition, and the numerical simulations were carried out by using commercial software ABAQUS. Based on the validated finite element simulation, all the semi angle, tube material, and friction have significant effects on the energy absorption capacity of expansion tube. The expansion tube with high tensile stress of parent material have high energy absorption capacity, while the specific energy absorption is linear with the tensile stress/density of tube material. This work would give a guidance to the structural design and parent materials selection for expansion tubes.
Development Perspective of Bioelectrocatalysis-based Biosensors
Authors: Adachi Taiki , Kitazumi Yuki , Shirai Osamu , Kano Kenji
Published: July 2020

Bioelectrocatalysis provides the intrinsic catalytic-functions of redox enzymes to non-specific electrode reactions and is the most important and basic concept for biosensors. This review starts by describing fundamental characteristics of bioelectrocatalytic reactions in mediated and direct electron transfer types from a theoretical viewpoint and summarizes amperometric biosensors based on multi-enzymatic cascades and for multi-analyte detection. The review also introduces prospective aspects of two new concepts of biosensors: mass-transfer-controlled (pseudo)steady-state amperometry at microelectrodes with enhanced enzymatic activity without calibration curves and potentiometric coulometry at enzyme/mediator-immobilized biosensors for absolute determination.
PEMBELAJARAN TEMATIK MENGGUNAKAN MEDIA VIDEO SCRIBE PADA SISWA KELAS IV SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Muskania Ricka Tesi , Badariah Siti , Mansur Mansur
Published: July 2020

Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi untuk meningkatakan hasil belajar siswa yang masih di bawah KKM 70,00 dengan menggunakan media video scribe. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui (1) Bagaimana hasil belajar siswa sebelum penggunaan media video scribe dalam pembelajaran tematik untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa (2) Bagaimana hasil belajar siswa setelah penggunaan media video scribe dalam pembelajaran tematik untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa (3) Apakah terdapat peningkatan hasil belajar siswa pada pembelajaran tematik setelah penggunaan video scribe sebagai media pembelajaran
Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Penelitian Tindakan Kelas. Adapun bentuk penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Sumber data dalam penelitian ini adalah: Guru kelas IV Naim. Pelaksanaan pengumpulan data dalam teknik dokumentasi, pengukuran dan observasi.
Hasil penelitian ini dapat menyimpulkan: 1). Hasil belajar siswa sebelum penggunaan media video scribe dalam pembelajaran tematik untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa di kelas IV SD Islam Al-Azhar 21 Pontianak Tahun Pelajaran 2017/2018 hanya memperoleh 65,45 belum memenuhi KKM yaitu 07,00. Perolehan hasil tersebut dikarenakan guru tidak menggunakan media pembelajaran yang dapat membuat siswa semakin bersemangat dalam belajar dan lebih ceria. 2). Hasil belajar siswa setelah penggunaan media video scribe dalam pembelajaran tematik untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa di kelas IV SD Islam Al-Azhar 21 Pontianak Tahun Pelajaran 2017/2018 pada siklus I memperoleh nilai 79,09 dan pada siklus II memperoleh nilai 94,54 dan 3). Terdapat peningkatan hasil belajar siswa pada pembelajaran tematik setelah pengguaan video scribe sebagai media pembelajaran di kelas IV SD Islam Al-Azhar 21 Pontianak Tahun Pelajaran 2017/2018 terdapat peningkatan hasil belajar dari siklus I hingga siklus II sebesar 15,45.
The Representation of Women’s Role and Position in Taqrib Book: A Discourse Analysis Study
Authors: Gojali Dudang , Abdurrohim Nandang , Ali Hapid
Published: July 2020

AbstractThis article aims at analyzing woman’s role and position in a book of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh book). It focuses on the discussion of women’s position in domestic and public sphere as written in the fiqh book titled Taqrib. It also explores the relevance of the Taqrib’s contents on women’s role and position in the social context by probing its readers’ awareness. In this qualitative study, the discourse analysis method is used to examine the contents of the book and the context of readers, i.e. prominent teachers of Islamic boarding school (kyai). Although women’s role and position was depicted subordinate to men in several cases of fiqh reasoning (e.g. the authority of father and grandfather in determining marriage for their daughter, the superiority of men over women in being a judge, and so forth) in the Taqrib book, Some kyai were aware of the women’s role and position in the social life equally. Hence, they maintain that the women’s role and position in the domestic and public environment should be recognized. This study thus emphasizes the need to re-read the fiqh reasoning on women’s role and position contextually. Keywords: woman's role and position, fiqh, Taqrib book.
Marine Archaeology Survey in Support of Galveston Island State Park Marsh Restoration and Protection Project Galveston County, Texas
Authors: Gearhart Robert
Published: July 2020

BOB Hydrographics, LLC conducted a marine geophysical survey and archaeological assessment of a proposed construction access channel in Galveston County, on behalf of HDR Engineering, Inc. A proposed 25-acre bay access channel would cross portions of State Mineral Lease Tracts, West Bay 59, 65 and 66 in West Galveston Bay. The channel would provide construction access to build a breakwater for the Galveston Island State Park Marsh Protection and Restoration Project, sponsored by the General Land Office. An archaeological survey was requested by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Galveston District, based on their review of Permit Application SWG-1998-02298. Consultation between the Texas Historical Commission and the Galveston District concluded that archaeological survey only would be required for the channel providing access from the bay to the island and not for areas adjacent and including the proposed breakwaters. The area of potential effect encompasses 70 acres, including a 50-meter buffer mandated by the Texas Historical Commission around the proposed channel. A review of cultural background determined that 1 marine archaeological investigation and, at least, 1 wreck have been reported within 3 miles of the survey area. BOB completed a marine geophysical survey on May 9, 2019 under Texas Antiquities Permit 8906. A total of 140 acres was surveyed to provide options for adjusting the route if necessary. Water depth at the time of the survey ranged from 4 to 9 feet. BOB assessed all geophysical data to locate archaeological sites potentially affected by construction of the access channel. No artifacts were collected during the survey. No significant geophysical targets were discovered that might be potentially eligible for the State Antiquities Landmark or for the National Register of Historic Places. BOB recommends cultural resource clearance for all areas surveyed, provided that a THC-mandated 50-meter buffer is honored around the perimeter of the survey area. This study was completed in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (Public Law 89-665; 16 U.S.C. 470) and the Antiquities Code of Texas (Texas Natural Resource Code, Title 9, Chapter 191). The minimum reporting and survey requirements for marine archaeological studies conducted under a Texas Antiquities Permit are mandated by The Texas Administrative Code, Title 13, Part 2, Chapters 26 and 28, respectively. Project records are curated at the Center for Archaeological Studies at Texas State University in San Marcos.
Underwater Archaeology Survey of 16628 Market Street Dredging Harris County, Texas
Authors: Gearhart Robert
Published: July 2020

BOB Hydrographics, LLC (BOB) conducted an underwater archaeological survey for proposed dredging adjacent 16628 Market Street in Channelview, Texas. The project is located upstream of River Terrace Park on the northern bank of Old River, an oxbow channel of the San Jacinto River, in Harris County. This project was sponsored by 16628 Market Street, LLC. The project spans portions of State Mineral Lease, Old River Tract A. An area of 3.5 acres is proposed for dredging to provide consistent depths for barge fleeting. Water depths in the survey area range from 3.5 to 15 feet. Dredging will remove sediment to an approximate depth of 12 feet, including shoals along the shoreline, allowing barges and tugs to moor along the existing bulkhead. The survey area measures 8.8 acres, including navigable portions of a 50- meter buffer around the project perimeter but excluding areas where survey was prohibited by parked barges. Field investigations consisted of a marine geophysical survey, performed under Texas Antiquities Permit 8878, on May 8, 2019. The purpose of BOB’s survey was to locate potential archaeological sites that would be affected by construction activities A desktop review of the cultural background determined that 10 marine archaeological investigations, 1 archival study, and at least 27 shipwrecks have been reported within 3 miles of the survey area. Magnetometer data was inconclusive due to abundant modern anomaly sources in the vicinity. Analysis of side-scan sonar data discovered no significant targets. BOB recommends clearance of the 3.5-acre project proposed for dredging from further cultural resource requirements. This study was completed in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (Public Law 89-665; 16 U.S.C. 470) and the Antiquities Code of Texas (Texas Natural Resource Code, Title 9, Chapter 191). The minimum reporting and survey requirements for marine archaeological studies conducted under a Texas Antiquities Permit are mandated by The Texas Administrative Code, Title 13, Part 2, Chapters 26 and 28, respectively. Project records are curated at the Center for Archaeological Studies at Texas State University in San Marcos. No artifacts were collected during this survey.
Underwater Archaeology Survey of Russell Marine Barge Dock Harris County, Texas
Authors: Gearhart Robert
Published: July 2020

BOB Hydrographics, LLC (BOB) conducted an underwater archaeological survey for proposed dredging adjacent the Russell Marine Barge Dock in Channelview, Texas. The barge dock is located upstream of River Terrace Park on the northern bank of Old River, an oxbow channel of the San Jacinto River, in Harris County. This project was sponsored by Lloyd Engineering, Inc. on behalf of Russell Marine, LLC. The project spans portions of State Mineral Lease, Old River Tract A. An area of 16 acres is proposed for dredging. The survey area measures 33 acres, including a 50-meter buffer around the project perimeter, where navigable, but excluding areas where survey was prohibited by parked barges. Water depths in the survey area ranged from 3.5 to 22 feet. Dredging will remove sediment to an approximate depth of 12 feet. Field investigations consisted of a marine geophysical survey, performed under Texas Antiquities Permit 8866, on May 8, 2019. The purpose of BOB’s survey was to locate potential archaeological sites that would be affected by construction activities. A desktop review of the cultural background determined that 10 marine archaeological investigations, 1 archival study, and at least 27 shipwrecks have been reported within 3 miles of the survey area. Magnetometer data was inconclusive due to abundant modern anomaly sources in the vicinity. Analysis of side-scan sonar data discovered no significant targets. BOB recommends clearance of the 16-acre area proposed for dredging from further cultural resource requirements. This study was completed in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (Public Law 89-665; 16 U.S.C. 470) and the Antiquities Code of Texas (Texas Natural Resource Code, Title 9, Chapter 191). The minimum reporting and survey requirements for marine archaeological studies conducted under a Texas Antiquities Permit are mandated by The Texas Administrative Code, Title 13, Part 2, Chapters 26 and 28, respectively. Project records are curated at the Center for Archaeological Studies at Texas State University in San Marcos. No artifacts were collected during this survey.
Study of Hydrate Anti-Agglomerant Dosage Effectiveness in a High-Pressure Stirred Autoclave Equipped with Particle-Analysis Probes
Authors: Salmin Davi Costa , Majid Ahmad A. A. , Wells Jonathan , Estanga Douglas , Rivero Mayela , Wu David T. , Zerpa Luis E. , Koh Carolyn A.
Published: July 2020

Hydrates present a major flow-assurance problem because of the relatively fast timescales at which they can form, grow, agglomerate, and plug a flowline. Thermodynamic inhibitors (THIs) are a common chemical strategy for preventing hydrate formation. However, THIs can be cost prohibitive because the water content (WC) in the flowline and the seawater depth increase. Among the alternative hydrate-management strategies, there is the use of anti-agglomerants (AAs), which are active at considerably lower concentrations than THIs. AAs prevent agglomeration and allow hydrates to flow as a noninteracting slurry in subsea oil flowlines. The selection of the correct AA dosage is critical for safe and economical AA application. This work uses one model oil and two crude oils to study hydrate agglomeration in the presence of a commercial AA in a laboratory-scale autoclave equipped with particle-characterization devices. Despite known limitations, the particle-sizing probes used here provided unique insight into the hydrate-agglomeration process occurring at high pressure in crude oil systems, enabling the identification of different characteristics of a hydrate slurry based on the AA concentration and the oil phase used. For example, the droplet size before hydrate formation was a poor indicator of AA performance for the AA and oils tested. Systems with similar droplet size before hydrate formation yielded significantly different hydrate-agglomerate sizes. Similarly, increased or decreased emulsion stability did not show any correlation to AA performance. The effective AA dosage was observed to be lower for model oil systems compared with crude oil systems, which provided insight into using model oils to evaluate AA performance vs. crude oils. Results also indicated that when an effective AA dosage is applied, hydrate-agglomerate size was similar for all oil phases tested. Further parameters need to be taken into account such as impeller geometry, pressure, temperature, and WC, which may influence AA performance.
The Impact of an Inpatient Treatment on the Psychodynamic and Symptomatology in Couples Concordant for Substance Use: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Hansen Aksel , Brokatzky Stefan , Kraus Benjamin , Thomas Kai , Sternbauer Christina , Rudaz Myriam , Dammann Gerhard
Published: July 2020

Background: Much literature deals with patients who use drugs and have partners who are drug-free. However, concordant couples, in which both partners are consuming drugs, are sparsely examined in the literature. This might be due to the fact, that couples are rarely treated together in healthcare services. Despite that fact we propose that it is feasible and clinically meaningful to treat concordant couples in the same ward. Consequently, this study pursues the goal to expand the body of knowledge in the treatment of concordant couples investigating the research question: is it feasible, clinically and prognostically meaningful to treat these patients in the same ward? Method: This exploratory study included five concordant couples (ten patients), which were simultaneously treated between August 2013 and November 2014 in a specialised substance use ward at the Psychiatric Hospital Münsterlingen, Switzerland. All patients passed through a psychodynamic characterisation based on the OPD-II interview and the Structured Interview for Personality Organization. Symptom load was measured with the Brief Symptom Inventory at admission and termination of treatment. We calculated comparisons at the individual level using t-tests for paired samples. Results: We showed that it is feasible and clinically meaningful to treat couples concordant for substance use in the same ward. The psychodynamic characterization of the five concordant couples revealed recurring patterns of collusion, involving divided roles between dependence and independence, caregiving and neediness, activity and passivity, control and submission, strength and deficiency as well as superiority and inferiority. The patients didn´t change significantly on the BSI between pre- to post-treatment, although men (d = 1.64) benefited to a greater extent than women (d = 0.10). Conclusion: Treating concordant couples together in the same inpatient setting is unusual, but feasible and clinically useful, because it makes it possible to take into account the couples dynamics in the treatment.
Tiotropium/Olodaterol Reduce Cigarette Smoking Extract-induced Cell Death in BEAS-2B Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Chen Cheng-Hsiung , Li Yi-Rong , Lin Sheng-Hao , Chang Hsiu-Hui , Chai Woei-Horng , Chan Po-Chiang , Lin Ching-Hsiung
Published: July 2020

Background: COPD is characterized by progressive irreversible airflow limitation. Cigarette smoking is an important risk factor for destruction of lung parenchyma or emphysema. Disruption of epithelial layer integrity may contribute to lung injury in response to CS exposure. Tiotropium/Olodaterol act as bronchodilator to treatment COPD by preventing ASM contraction and muscle relaxation; however, the effect of dual bronchodilator on epithelial cell injury and its underlying mechanism is still unclear. Methods: In this study, we aim to evaluate the effect of Tiotropium/Olodaterol on CSE-mediate cell death, with a special focus on autophagy. In this study, we investigated the effects of Tiotropium/Olodaterol on cell viability, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP; Δφm), and autophagy in BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cells. Results: Tiotropium/olodaterol significantly inhibit CSE-induce cell death, mitochondria dysfunction and autophagy in response to short-term treatment with CSE. Moreover, decrease in ERK and JNK activation after CSE treatment were reversed by Tiotropium/olodaterol treatment. Conclusions: Tiotropium/olodaterol have protective effect against CSE-induced cell death which may related to induction of autophagy via activating ERK and JNK. In this study, we provide a possible novel mechanism for dual-bronchodilator in COPD treatment.
Developing and Testing the Effectiveness of a Novel Online Integrated Treatment for Problem Gambling and Tobacco Smoking: A Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bilevicius Elena , Single Alanna , Baumgartner Chris , Bui Van , Kempe Tyler , Schaub Michael , Stewart Sherry , MacKillop James , Hodgins David , Wardell Jeffrey , O'Connor Roisin , Read Jennifer , Hadjistavropoulos Heather , Sundstrom Christopher , Keough Matt
Published: July 2020

Background: Gambling and tobacco smoking are highly comorbid among North American adults. However, there is a paucity of treatment options that are integrated (i.e., targeting both gambling and tobacco smoking simultaneously), accessible, and evidence based.Methods: The aim of this two-arm randomized controlled trial is to examine the effectiveness of an online, self-guided integrated treatment for problem gambling and tobacco smoking. A target sample of 214 participants will be recruited and be randomized into either an eight-week integrated or gambling-only control condition. Both conditions will consist of seven online modules following cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing principles. Our three primary outcomes are (1) number of days gambled, (2) money spent on gambling activities, and (3) time spent in gambling activities. Secondary outcomes include gambling disorder symptoms, cigarette use, and nicotine dependence symptoms. Assessments will be completed at baseline, at completion (i.e., eight-weeks from baseline), and follow-up (i.e., 24-weeks from baseline). Generalized linear mixed modelling will be used to evaluate our primary and secondary outcomes. We expect that participants receiving online integrated treatment will show larger reductions in gambling relative to those receiving a control gambling only intervention. We further hypothesize that reductions in smoking will mediate these group differences.Discussion: The rates of problem gambling and tobacco smoking are high in North America; yet, the treatment options for both are limited, with no integrated treatments available. If supported, our intervention will be a cost-effective and accessible way to improve treatments for co-occurring problem gambling and tobacco use.Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov; ID NCT03614884. Registered August 3, 2019;
Incorporating operational research in programmes funded by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria in four sub-Saharan African countries.
Authors: Camacho Salvador , Maher Dermot , Kamau Edward Mberu , Saric Jasmina , Segura Luis , Zachariah Rony , Wyss Kaspar
Published: July 2020

Background: The current study builds upon a previous situation analysis of the extent to which grants from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund) are being utilized to support operational research and implementation research (OR/IR) activities in recipient countries. The objective of this follow-up study was to identify approaches and pathways to implement an OR component into grants to the Global Fund, in four sub-Saharan African countries. Special focus was given to the Structured Operational Research and Training IniTiative (SORT IT).Methods: The conceptual framework was based on an analysis to identify elements supporting and blocking the integration of OR, called force field analysis, and a behavioural change assessment covering aspects such as opportunity, motivation, capability and triggers to do the integration. Data were collected through online surveys and stakeholder interviews both via telephone/online conference tools and in person in four countries with a high burden of malaria and tuberculosis. These countries were Ghana, Sierra Leone, the United Republic of Tanzania and Zimbabwe. The stakeholders included programme managers, implementation partners, representatives from international organisations, academic and governmental research institutions and other individuals involved in the countries’ needs assessment and National Strategic Plan development. Results: We identified opportunities to integrate OR into the countries’ programmes during the funding process, the country’s needs assessment being the most important one, including the need of OR-related capacity. Both the force field analysis and the behavioural change assessment showed that the necessary elements to integrate OR were present in the countries. Motivation, capability and efficiency were found to be a managerial value omnipresent across stakeholders. However, those elements were influenced by the tendency to favour tangible assets over any abstract ones, such as increasing organisational capacity in OR.Conclusions: In each of the countries assessed, there is potential to integrating OR into the programmes supported by the Global Fund. However, given the relative lack of OR-related capacity and skills encountered, a capacity strengthening tool, such as SORT IT, would be of benefit helping to identify and carry forward OR activities sustainably.
Stage-dependent angiopoietin-Tie2 and nitric oxide signaling of erythrocytes in response to surgical trauma in head and neck cancer
Authors: Wu Hsiang-Ling , Chu You-Hsiang , Tai Ying-Hsuan , Tsou Mei-Yung , Wu Cheng-Hsien , Lo Wen-Liang , Tai Shyh-Kuan , Yeh Chun-Chang , Lu Chih-Cherng
Published: July 2020

Background: Angiopoietin-Tie2 and nitric oxide pathway is crucial in tumor angiogenesis and closely correlates with tumor development, growth, and metastasis. This study aimed to investigate the angiopoietin-Tie2 and nitric oxide signaling of erythrocyte membrane in response to surgical trauma in head and neck cancer.Methods: We prospectively enrolled the patients with histology-proven head and neck squamous cell carcinoma undergoing surgical resection of primary tumors at the medical center between August and November 2019. We measured the preoperative and postoperative levels of angiopoietin-1, angiopoietin-2 in plasma using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, nitric oxide in plasma using nitrate/nitrite colorimetric assays, and Tie2 phosphorylation in erythrocyte membrane using Western blotting. Results: The plasma angiopoietin-1 was down-regulated from median 971.3 pg/mL (interquartile range [IQR]: 532.1 – 1569.3) to 417.9 (IQR: 270.5 – 597.3) after tumor resection (p=0.0020). Conversely, the plasma angiopoietin-2 was enhanced from 1173.6 pg/mL (IQR: 977.7 – 1450.2) to 2353.7 (IQR: 1352.4 – 2954.3) after surgery (p=0.0021), with a concomitant increase in plasma nitric oxide level from 7.73 μM (IQR: 5.39 – 10.06) to 10.50 (IQR: 7.65 – 14.18) after surgical resection (p=0.0093). Subgroup analyses further showed the angiopoietin-Tie2 and nitric oxide signaling was significant only in stage III and IV cancer.Conclusions: The dynamic change of angiopoietin-Tie2 signaling in erythrocyte membrane along with the enhanced nitric oxide in plasma after tumor resection suggests erythrocytes play a significant role in modulating surgery-induced angiogenesis, which may provide a novel marker for cancer surveillance and control.
Evaluation of the Effect and Safety of HeberFERON vs Heberon Alpha in Patients Infected with Corona Virus SARS-CoV-2 (Study ESPERANZA/HOPE): Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.
Authors: Iraldo Bello-Rivero , Hernandez-Bernal Francisco , Nodarse-Cuni Hugo , Duncan-Roberts Yaquelin , Suarez Claudia Martínez , Campa-Legrá Ivan , Esquivel-Moy Idelsis , Muzio-Gonzalez Verena , Guillen-Nieto Gerardo
Published: July 2020

Background: As the outbreak of COVID-19 has accelerated, an urgent need for finding strategies to combat the virus is growing. Results from in vitro studies suggest that a combination of IFN type I and Type II may be effective against SARS-CoV. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of treatment with a recombinant IFN alpha 2b and gamma, provided with standard protocol (Kaletra (lopinavir-ritonavir 200/50 mg; 200/100 mg every 12 hour for 30 days; Chloroquine (250 mg) every 12 hours for 10 days) for COVID-19 patients, compared to standard protocol (IFN alpha 2b/Kaletra/Chloroquine) for COVID-19 hospitalized patients, positive diagnosed for SARS-Cov-2. Methods: Hospitalized adult patients with qPCR confirmed SARS-Cov-2 will be enrolled in this open-labeled, single center, prospective, randomized and controlled clinical trial. One hundred and twenty eligible patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positivity by qPCR amplification in oropharyngeal/nasopharyngeal swab samples will be enrolled at “Luis Diaz Soto” Hospital, Havana, Cuba. The primary outcomes are the time to 2019-nCoV RNA negativity in patients and the time until progression to severe COVID-19. Discussion: This will be the first randomized controlled trial of a potential treatment for SARC-Cov-2 using the combinations of IFNs. Trial registration: The study is sponsored by Center for Genetic and Biotechnology and Ministry of Health of Cuba and was duly registered April 2020 at http://registroclinico.sld.cu/en/trials/RPCEC00000307-En. Enrolment for this study began in April 11, 2020, and has enrolled one hundred patients as of May-26-2020
Association between dietary patterns and prediabetes risk in a middle-aged Chinese population
Authors: Shen Xiao-Ming , Huang Yi-Qian , Zhang Xiao-Yan , Tong Xiao-Qing , Zheng Pei-Fen , Shu Long
Published: July 2020

Background: Information regarding dietary patterns associated with prediabetes in the Chinese population is lacking. The objective of the present study was to explore the association between major dietary patterns and the risk of prediabetes in a middle-aged Chinese population. Methods: A total of 1761 participants (aged 45 to 59 years) were recruited in Hangzhou city, the capital of Zhejiang Province, China from June 2015 to December 2016. Dietary information was obtained by interview using a 138-item, validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire(SQFFQ). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations between dietary patterns and the risk of prediabetes with adjustment of potential confounding variables. Results:Three dietary patterns were ascertained by factor analysis and labeled as traditional southern Chinese, Western, and grains-vegetables patterns. After controlling of the potential confounders, participants in the top quartile of the Western pattern scores had greater odds ratio(OR) for prediabetes (OR=1.54; 95% confidence interval(CI):1.068-2.059; P=0.025) than did those in the bottom quartile. Compared with those in the bottom quartile, participants in the top quartile of the grains-vegetables pattern scores had a lower OR for prediabetes(OR=0.83; 95% CI:0.747-0.965; P=0.03). Besides, no statistically significant association was observed in the association between the traditional southern Chinese pattern and prediabetes risk (P>0.05). Conclusions:The findings of this study showed that the Western pattern was associated with higher risk, and the grains-vegetables pattern was associated with lower risk of prediabetes. Future prospective studies are required to validate our findings.
Feasibility of Rectal Stent Development for Fecal Diversion: A Porcine Experiment
Authors: Han Yoon Dae , Park Youn Young , Yoon Jiho , Kim Nam Kyu
Published: July 2020

Objective

Since low rectal anastomosis leakage may cause severe morbidity, surgeons create diversion stoma to prevent complication. However, stoma requires additional surgery with morbidity. Therefore, rectal stent may help prevent these problems. This preliminary report details the development of new rectal stent in animal experiment. Thirteen female 12 week-old pigs weighing 30–35 kg each (four in the control group, nine in the experimental group) were included. Under general anesthesia, pigs underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection. In experimental group, a Niti-S fully covered stent (Taewoong Medical Inc.) was inserted by guidewire, under direct laparoscopic vision, and affixed near the anus. All pigs were sacrificed for autopsy. Including the anastomosis line, 10 cm length of bowel was obtained and a water-air leak and barium leakage X-ray tests were performed to confirm anastomosis integrity.
Results

Among the four control pigs, anastomosis leakage was confirmed in only one. For the experimental pigs, 36-mm-diameter stent was used. The last three pigs were subjected to additional intra-abdominal stent fixation by laparoscopic guidance, but all stents were removed. Despite natural stent removal, there were only two cases of intraoperative leakage. To overcome rectal pressure and fecal bulk, rectal stent development requires further investigation.
Investigation on the effect of vitamin C on growth & biofilm-forming potential of Streptococcus mutans isolated from patients with dental caries
Authors: Eydou Zehdi , Jad Bader Naser , Elsayed Zeyad , Ismail Anas , Magaogao Michael , Hossain Ashfaque
Published: July 2020

Background: Streptococcus mutans is a major cause of dental caries. Its capacity to produce biofilm is fundamental in the pathogenesis of this ubiquitous condition. As maintaining a healthy dentition is a genuine goal given the contemporary advance in caries control, researchers are striving to achieve a breakthrough in caries therapy. We are taking the anti-cariogenic properties of vitamin C a step-further, considering the well-known evidence of the inversely proportionate relationship between salivary levels of vitamin C and dental caries. The aim of this study was to determine MIC, MBC, biofilm prevention concentration (BPC), and derivative measures of vitamin C against fresh clinical isolates of S. mutans to evaluate its efficacy as an anti-cariogenic agent.Results: Based on the data of four independent experiments done in quadruplicates, we found a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of vitamin C on all S. mutans strains tested. The average MBC, MIC, and BPC of vitamin C were found to be 10.16, 9.38, and 5.61 mg/ml, respectively. Spectrophotometric quantitation of crystal violet showed diminished biofilm formation in the presence of vitamin C (p < 0.05). When compared with gentamicin, vitamin C produced a zone of inhibition that was three times as large against the clinical isolates.Conclusion: Our results show that vitamin C has a negative effect on S. mutans growth and biofilm formation. Being the first to meticulously utilize BPC to explore a well-known effect of vitamin C, this report aims to help in the instigation of trials of higher evidence that will ultimately culminate in repurposing vitamin C as a novel anti-cariogenic agent, albeit further studies are required to provide auxiliary evidence in this context.
Fluorescent bead-based serological detection of Toxoplasma gondii infection in chickens
Authors: Fabian Benedikt T. , Hedar Fatima , Koethe Martin , Bangoura Berit , Maksimov Pavlo , Conraths Franz J. , Villena Isabelle , Aubert Dominique , Seeber Frank , Schares Gereon
Published: July 2020

Background: Free-ranging chickens are often infected with Toxoplasma gondii and seroconvert upon infection. This indicates environmental contamination with T. gondii. Methods: Here, we established a bead-based multiplex assay (BBMA) using the Luminex technology for the detection of T. gondii infections in chickens. Recombinant biotinylated T. gondii surface antigen 1 (TgSAG1bio) bound to streptavidin-conjugated magnetic Luminex beads served as antigen. Serum antibodies were detected by a fluorophore-coupled secondary antibody. Beads of differing color codes were conjugated with anti-chicken IgY or chicken serum albumin and served for each sample as an internal positive or negative control, respectively. The assay was validated with sera from experimentally and naturally infected chickens. The results were compared to those from reference methods, including other serological tests, PCRs and bioassay in mice.Results: In experimentally infected chickens, the vast majority (98.5%, n = 65/66) of birds tested seropositive in the BBMA. This included all chickens positive by magnetic-capture PCR (100%, n = 45/45). Most, but not all inoculated and TgSAG1bio-BBMA-positive chickens were also positive in two previously established TgSAG1-ELISAs (TgSAG1-ELISASL, n = 61/65; or TgSAG1-ELISASH, n = 60/65), or positive in an immunofluorescence assay (IFAT, n = 64/65)) and in a modified agglutination test (MAT, n = 61/65). All non-inoculated control animals (n = 28/28, 100%) tested negative. In naturally exposed chickens, the TgSAG1bio-BBMA showed a high sensitivity (98.5%; 95% confidence interval, CI: 90.7–99.9%) and specificity (100%; 95% CI: 85.0–100%) relative to a reference standard established using ELISA, IFAT and MAT. Almost all naturally exposed chickens that were positive in bioassay or by PCR tested positive in the TgSAG1bio-BBMA (93.5%; 95% CI: 77.1–98.9%), while all bioassay- or PCR-negative chickens remained negative (100%; 95% CI: 85.0–100%).Conclusions: The TgSAG1bio-BBMA represents a suitable method for the detection of T. gondii infections in chickens with high sensitivity and specificity, which is comparable or even superior to other tests. Since assays based on this methodology allow for the simultaneous analysis of a single biological sample with respect to multiple analytes, the described assay may represent a component in future multiplex assays for broad serological monitoring of poultry and other farm animals for various pathogens.
Assessment of Early Juvenil Idiopathic Scoliosis: Clinical Trial for the Evaluation of A School-Based Screening Protocol
Authors: Scaturro Dalila , Terrana Pietro , Costantino Caludio , Lauricella Lorenza , tomasello Sofia , sannasardo claudia , Vitale Francesco , Mauro Giulia Letizia
Published: July 2020

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of clinical tests currently in use for the diagnosis of JIS, through a survey, carried out in secondary schools in the province of Palermo, in order to standardize a school screening protocol that could be extended to the whole regional territory. The adolescents underwent a specialist physiatric examination in their classrooms; moreover three screening tests have been administred: Adams test, Bunnel Inclinometer and Plumb line test. In case of single positivity to one of the three tests, the adolescent underwent to radiography of the whole column. Then we examined the sensitivity and diagnostic specificity of the Adams or inclinometer test, respectively: 56.3% and 92.7%. On the other hand, the positivity to at least one between inclinometer or plumb line sensitivity was higher than the specificity: 91.3% versus 80.8%. The same happened for the positivity to at least one test between Adams index or plumb line test, which showed a sensitivity of 95.2% compared to a specificity of 81.5%. Finally, taking into consideration patients with triple test positivity, a clear increase in specificity compared to sensitivity was demonstrated, reaching 99.7% Performing a single test cannot be considered a sufficient tool aiming to detect potential scoliotic subjects. To conclude, an effective screening program can reduce health care expenditure related to specialist medical examinations as well as unnecessary instrumental exams such as X-rays.
Hunting for the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein Ancestor
Authors: Flores-Alanis Alejandro , Sandner-Miranda Luisa , Delgado Gabriela , Cravioto Alejandro , Morales-Espinosa Rosario
Published: July 2020

Objective: In December 2019 a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that is causing the current COVID-19 pandemic was identified in Wuhan, China. Many questions have been raised about its origin and adaptation to humans. In the present work we performed a genetic analysis of the Spike glycoprotein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 and other related coronaviruses (CoVs) isolated from different hosts in order to trace the evolutionary history of this protein and the adaptation of SARS-CoV-2 to humans. Results: Based on the sequence analysis of the S gene, we suggest that the origin of SARS-CoV-2 is the result of recombination events between bat and pangolin CoVs. The hybrid SARS-CoV-2 ancestor jumped to humans and has been maintained by natural selection. Although the S protein of RaTG13 bat CoV has a high nucleotide identity with the S protein of SARS-CoV-2, the phylogenetic tree and the haplotype network suggest a non-direct parental relationship between these CoVs. Moreover, it is likely that the basic function of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of S protein was acquired by the SARS-CoV-2 from the MP789 pangolin CoV by recombination and it has been highly conserved.
Identification of additive and epistatic effects QTLs for seed oil content in soybean based on an integrating map of two RIL populations
Authors: Wang Yue , Liu Shulin , Wang Jiajing , Yang Chang , Tian Zhixi , Li Wen-Xia , Ning Hailong
Published: July 2020

Background

Soybean seed oil has been widely used in human consumption and industrial production.
Results

In order to identify the additive and epistatic effects QTLs and QTLs by environments interactions (AE and AAE) for seed oil content in soybean, an eight-environment conjoint analysis based on two populations RIL3613 and RIL6013 with an integrating map was conducted. An new high-density integrated genetic map containing 2212 SNP markers and covering 5718.01 cM with an average distance of 2.61 cM were constructed by the combination of two linkage maps of two associated recombinant inbred line (A-RIL) populations. A total of 64 additive effect and additive × environment interaction (AE) QTL were identified on 19 chromosomes by both ICIM and IM methods, and the proportion of phenotypic variations explained (PVE) range of QTL related to oil content was 1.29–10.75%, of which 19 QTLs had overlapping marker intervals, and qOil-5-1 was identified simultaneously in both RIL populations. Compared with previous SSR positioning results, it is found 8 SNP sites within the QTL physical interval located in the SSR sites. Among them, 4 QTLs were new found. Twelve pairs of epistatic QTLs (additive × additive, AA) and QTL interactions with environments (AAE) for oil content were identified by the ICIM method, of which 3 QTLs were new found, and 2 additive effect QTLs, qOil-9-2 and qOil-15-1, linked to the other two QTLs to produce epistatic effects. A total of 5 potential candidate genes were identified based on genetic ontology and annotated information showing the relationship with seed oil content and/or fatty acid biosynthesis and metabolism.
Conclusion

These QTLs with different effects provide the good basis for molecular-assisted breeding of soybean oil content-related traits and further fine mapping of related genes.
Psychosocial impact of respiratory infectious disease pandemics on children: a systematic review
Authors: Wang Chenran , Xiao Shuyue , Sun Yijie , Wang Jinpeng , Xu Tao
Published: July 2020

Objective

To examine the impact of respiratory infectious disease pandemics in the new millennium on mental health, behavioral responses, and parenting practices in children, and provide further intervention directions to mitigate negative effects of the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Methods

We conducted a systemic literature review of researches from January 2003 to May 2020 with three mainstream electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. Quality of included studies were assessed using Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) according to different study design. Further directions were identified for developing appropriate interventions.
Results

Twenty-four studies conducted in the context of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) (n = 10), influenza A (H1N1) (n = 3), and COVID-19 (n = 11) pandemics met the inclusion criteria. Children showed emotional conditions such as anxiety, fear, and depression, while psychological responses varied across age and gender groups. Children with mental illness history experienced an exacerbation of psychological symptoms. The pandemics changed hygiene habits and learning styles, and led to the increased participation in unfavorable lifestyles. For families with pediatric patients, the pandemic decreased parents’ participation in providing family-centered care and threatened to supportive family relationship and effective parents-child communication.
Conclusion

The emerging virus outbreaks and subsequent disease-control measures have impacts on mental health status, behavioral responses, and parenting practices in children. In response to COVID-19, greater efforts taking into account children’s developmental stage should be made to implement evidence-based psychological interventions, enhance effective communication, and encourage collaboration.