bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migraciones interurbanas en la frontera norte de México
Authors: Estrella Valenzuela Gabriel
Published: April 2020

Este ensayo describe la migración de las últimas cuatro décadas hacia los estados fronterizos del norte de México en general, y hacia Baja California en particular. Para poder comparar los saldos migratorios fronterizos se establece una subregionalización de los estados y municipios adyacentes a la frontera.El fenómeno migratorio de Baja California se aborda a partir del perfil de los movimientos poblacionales en cuanto a magnitud, origen y destino. Además, se analizan las características de los migrantes intraestatales que residen en las áreas urbanas de Baja Califonia. Para finalizar, se presentan las conclusiones del trabajo.
Las contradicciones de la expansión ganadera en las fronteras norte y sur de México (estados de Sonora y Chiapas)
Authors: Villafuerte Solís Daniel , Pontigo Sánchez José Luis
Published: April 2020

En este artículo se plantean las principales contradicciones derivadas del proceso de expansión de la ganadería bovina en México, y de manera particular en los estados de Sonora y Chiapas, los cuales son ejemplos representativos de lo que ocurre en las fronteras norte y sur de nuestro país en relación al fenómeno que se ha dado en llamar ganaderización o ganaderización de la agricultura.
O Impacto da Distância no Valor Investido em Equity Crowdfunding no Brasil
Authors: Nascimento Luisa de Souza , Francisco Eduardo de Rezende , Felipe Israel José dos Santos
Published: April 2020

Objetivo: Estudos apontam uma correlação negativa da distância investidores-investidas e a capacidade de empresas jovens levantarem capital. No entanto, essa lógica não permanece no Crowdfunding, onde foram encontrados indícios de maior dispersão geográfica. Este estudo investiga o impacto da distância sobre o valor dos investimentos no mercado do Equity Crowdfunding (ECF), modalidade na qual startups oferecem quotas de participação para pequenos investidores através de plataformas online. Metodologia: Para testar a hipótese de que a distância não impacta o valor investido utilizou-se a população de investidores e empresas da plataforma Broota (hoje Kria) entre 2015 e 2016 e dados geoeconômicos do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE) (2010). Aplicou-se técnicas de georreferenciamento para calcular a distância e regressões múltiplas para determinar as melhores variáveis na explicação do investimento. Modelos Espacial Auto-Regressivo (SAR) e Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) foram utilizados para estudar o impacto da vizinhança no valor investido. Resultados: A técnica GWR teve o melhor ajuste (R² de 10,42%), 1,11% maior do que o obtido com a Regressão Linear Múltipla. Conclui-se que a geografia é significante (modelos SAR e GWR apresentam efeito similar), mas não tem grande impacto no valor investido. Ademais, os investidores de ECF comportam-se similarmente ao de investimentos tradicionais, o que indica que essa modalidade não alcança eficientemente empreendimentos fora dos grandes centros urbanos. Contribuições teóricas: Este artigo ajuda a entender o comportamento de investidores brasileiros, onde essa modalidade ainda é nova e pouco estudada. Contribuições práticas: As conclusões podem ser úteis para a formulação de políticas para incentivo de financiamento de empresas em regiões fora do eixo sul-sudeste.
Antitumor Effects of Docetaxel in Truncated Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor- Functionalized Liposomes Delivered by d-α-tocopheryl Polyethylene Glycol 2000 Succinate
Authors: Wen Jiaolin , Wang Zhoufeng , Qiu Neng , Liu Huili , Shu Xiaoming , Zhu Zejiang , Bai Peng , Yang Li , Chen Lijuan
Published: April 2020

Background:

PEGylation of stealth liposomes elevates their stability and prolongs plasma half-life.
Stealth liposomes modified with targeting ligands are expected to be ideal drug delivery carriers.

Objective:

To encapsulate docetaxel in tbFGF (truncated basic fibroblast growth factor)-functionalized liposomes
with mPEG2000-VE (d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate, TPGS2K) and measure their antitumor effects
in vitro and in vivo.

Methods:

TPGS2K and COOH-PEG2000-VE were synthesized, and tbFGF was conjugated to COOH-PEG2000-VE
to prepare tbFGF-PEG2000-VE. Then, tbFGF-functionalized liposomes (DTX-tbFGF-LPs) were prepared by inserting
tbFGF-PEG2000-VE into docetaxel liposomes comprising TPGS2K (DTX-PEG-LPs). The stabilities and
drug release profiles of the formulation were evaluated. P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibition was measured by ATPase
assay. MTT and cell uptake were measured with B16 cells. A B16 C57BL/6 mouse model was used to
evaluate in vivo antitumor efficacy.

Results:

Both DTX-PEG-LPs and DTX-tbFGF-LPs exhibited good stability and sustained drug release. MTT,
flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy of B16 cells revealed higher antitumor activity and more efficient
cell uptake for DTX-tbFGF-LPs compared with DTX-PEG-LPs and DTX-LPs. The P-gp ATPase assay showed
that both PEG-LP and tbFGF-PEG-LP formulations inhibited P-gp pump activity in vitro. DTX-tbFGF-LPs had
the highest antitumor efficacy and lowest toxicity in vivo.

Conclusion:

Truncated basic fibroblast growth factor-functionalized liposomes with TPGS2K as drug delivery
nanocarriers were effective chemotherapy agents targeting FGFR-overexpressing tumors.
Synthesis of New 3-Arylaminophthalides and 3-Indolyl-phthalides using Ammonium Chloride, Evaluation of their Anti-Mycobacterial Potential and Docking Study
Authors: Patil Avinash , Duggal Harleen , Bagul Kamini T. , Kamble Sonali , Lokhande Pradeep , Gacche Rajesh , Meshram Rohan
Published: April 2020

Objective:

The study aims at the derivatization of “Phthalides” and synthesizes 3-
arylaminophthalides & 3-indolyl-phthalides compounds, and evaluates their anti-tubercular and
antioxidant activities. The study has also intended to employ the in silico methods for the
identification of possible drug targets in Mycobacterium and evaluate the binding affinities of
synthesized compounds.

Methods:

This report briefly explains the synthesis of phthalide derivatives using ammonium
chloride. The synthesized compounds were characterized using spectral analysis. Resazurin Microtiter
Assay (REMA) plate method was used to demonstrate the anti-mycobacterial activity of the
synthesized compounds. An in-silico pharmacophore probing approach was used for target
identification in Mycobacterium. The structural level interaction between the identified putative drug
target and synthesized phthalides was studied using Lamarckian genetic algorithm-based software.

Results and Discussion:

In the present study, we report an effective, environmentally benign
scheme for the synthesis of phthalide derivatives. Compounds 5c and 5d from the current series
appear to possess good anti-mycobacterial activity. dCTP: deaminasedUTPase was identified as a
putative drug target in Mycobacterium. The docking results clearly showed the interactive
involvement of conserved residues of dCTP with the synthesized phthalide compounds.

Conclusion:

On the eve of evolving anti-TB drug resistance, the data on anti-tubercular and allied
activities of the compounds in the present study demonstrates the enormous significance of these
newly synthesized derivatives as possible candidate leads in the development of novel anti-tubercular
agents. The docking results from the current report provide a structural rationale for the promising
anti-tubercular activity demonstrated by 3-arylaminophthalides and 3-indolyl-phthalides compounds.
The Role of the Coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS) in Infective Endocarditis; A Narrative Review from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Noshak Mohammad A. , Rezaee Mohammad A. , Hasani Alka , Mirzaii Mehdi
Published: April 2020

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are part of the microbiota of human skin and rarely linked with soft tissue infections. In recent years, CoNS species considered as one of the major nosocomial pathogens and can cause several infections such as catheter-acquired sepsis, skin infection, urinary tract infection, endophthalmitis, central nervous system shunt infection, surgical site infections, and foreign body infection. These microorganisms have a significant impact on human life and health and, as typical opportunists, cause peritonitis in individuals undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Moreover, it is revealed that these potential pathogens are mainly related to the use of indwelling or implanted in a foreign body and cause infective endocarditis (both native valve endocarditis and prosthetic valve endocarditis) in patients. In general, approximately eight percent of all cases of native valve endocarditis is associated with CoNS species, and these organisms cause death in 25% of all native valve endocarditis cases. Moreover, it is revealed that methicillin-resistant CoNS species cause 60 % of all prosthetic valve endocarditis cases. In this review, we describe the role of the CoNS species in infective endocarditis, and we explicated the reported cases of CoNS infective endocarditis in the literature from 2000 to 2020 to determine the role of CoNS in the process of infective endocarditis.
Exploitation of Potential Extremophiles for Bioremediation of Xenobiotics Compounds: A Biotechnological Approach
Authors: Shukla Awadhesh Kumar , Singh Amit Kishore
Published: April 2020

Microorganisms that are capable of live and adapt in hostile habitats of different environmental
factors such as extremes temperature, salinity, nutrient availability and pressure are known as
extremophiles. Exposure to xenobiotic compounds is global concern influencing the world population
as a health hazard. Hence their removal is warranted using biological means that is very sustainable,
potentially cost-effective and eco-friendly. Due to adaptation in extreme environments and unique defense
mechanisms, they are receiving more attention for the bioremediation of the xenobiotic compounds.
They possess robust enzymatic and biocatalytic systems that make them suitable for the effective
removal of pollutants from the contaminated environment. Additionally, the extremophiles act
as microfactories having specific genetic and biotechnological potential for the production of biomolecules.
This mini review will provide an overview of microbial degradation metabolic pathways for
bioremediation along with the molecular and physiological properties of diverse extremophiles from
variety of habitats. Furthermore, the factors affecting the bioremediation process is also summarized.
The Association and Influencing Factors between Antipsychotics Exposure and the Risk of VTE and PE: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Luqi , Zuo Qiunan , Chen Fangying , Chen Lei , Shen Yongchun
Published: April 2020

Background:

Different clinical studies have given inconsistent results on whether the use of antipsychotics increases the risk of thromboembolism. In this paper, we reviewed all relevant literature to provide suggestions for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Methods:

PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane and Scopus databases were thoroughly searched up to June 2019. Two researchers independently searched the literature, extracted data. Data were analyzed by Stata 12.0 software.

Results:

A total of 22 studies involving 31514226 subjects were included. This meta-analysis showed that patients taking the first- or second-generation antipsychotics had a higher risk of venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism than those who did not, and low potency first-generation agents increased the risk of venous thromboembolism more than high potency antipsychotics, and olanzapine, clozapine, haloperidol, perphenazine and risperidone also significantly increased the risk of it. The risk of venous thrombosis in obese people was higher than that in overweight people, patients not less than 65 years old had an increased risk compared with younger patients. In addition, women taking antipsychotics had a higher risk of pulmonary embolism than men.

Conclusion:

The use of antipsychotics will increase the risk of venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism, which will be affected by the type of antipsychotics and patient characteristics.
Fibroblast Growth Factors as Tools in the Management of Neuropathic Pain Disorders
Authors: Forouzanfar Fatemeh , Sadeghnia Hamid R.
Published: April 2020

Neuropathic pain is caused by a damage to or dysfunction of the somatosensory nervous
system. The main mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain include ectopic activity in nociceptive
nerves, peripheral and central sensitization, impaired inhibitory modulation, and microglial activation.
Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) make up a large family of growth factors that mediate neural development,
metabolism, and function through three main key signaling pathways, including RAS/MAP
kinase pathway, PI3 kinase/Akt pathway, and PLCγ. An association between the members of the FGF
system and the improvement of neuropathic pain has become evident, recently. These signaling molecules
may be expected to provide new drug targets for the treatment of neuropathic pain. To the best
of our knowledge, it is the first study that reviews the relationship between some members of the FGF
system and neuropathic pain.
Modeling of the Desialylated Human Serum N-glycome for Molecular Diagnostic Applications in Inflammatory and Malignant Lung Diseases
Authors: Farkas Anna , Mészáros Brigitta , Szarka Máté , Szigeti Márton , Kappelmayer János , Szabó Miklós , Csánky Eszter , Guttman András
Published: April 2020

Background:

Immunoglobulin G and A, transferrin, haptoglobin and alpha-1-
antitrypsin represent approximately 85% of the human serum glycoproteome and their
N-glycosylation analysis may lead to the discovery of important molecular disease
markers. However, due to the labile nature of the sialic acid residues, the desialylated
subset of the serum N-glycoproteome has been traditionally utilized for diagnostic
applications.

Objective:

Creating a five-protein model to deconstruct the overall N-glycosylation
fingerprints in inflammatory and malignant lung diseases.

Methods:

The N-glycan pool of human serum and the five high abundant serum
glycoproteins were analyzed. Simultaneous endoglycosidase/sialidase digestion was
followed by fluorophore labeling and separation by CE-LIF to establish the model.
Pooled serum samples from patients with COPD, lung cancer (LC) and their comorbidity
were all analyzed.

Results:

Nine significant (>1%) asialo-N-glycan structures were identified both in human
serum and the standard protein mixture. The core-fucosylated-agalacto-biantennary
glycan differentiated COPD and LC and both from the control and the comorbidity
groups. Decrease in the core-fucosylated-agalacto-biantennary-bisecting, monogalacto
and bigalacto structures differentiated all disease groups from the control. The
significant increase of the fucosylated-galactosylated-triantennary structure was highly
specific for LC, to a medium extent for COPD and a lesser extent for comorbidity. Also,
some increase in the afucosylated-galactosylated-biantennary structure in all three
disease types and afucosylated-galactosylated-triantennary structures in COPD and LC
were observed in comparison to the control group.

Conclusion:

Our results suggested that changes in the desialylated human serum Nglycome
hold glycoprotein specific molecular diagnostic potential for malignant and
inflammatory lung diseases, which can be modeled with the five-protein mixture.
Red Blood Cell Indices in Relation to Post-stroke Psychiatric Disorders: A Longitudinal Study in a Follow-up Stroke Clinic
Authors: Wang Haichao , Gong Li , Xia Xiaomei , Dong Qiong , Jin Aiping , Gu Yongzhe , Zhao Yanxin , Liu Xueyuan
Published: April 2020

Background:

Depression and anxiety after stroke are common conditions that are likely
to be neglected. Abnormal red blood cell (RBC) indices may be associated with neuropsychiatric
disorders. However, the association of RBC indices with post-stroke depression (PSD) and poststroke
anxiety (PSA) has not been sufficiently investigated.

Methods:

We aimed to investigate the trajectory of post-stroke depression and anxiety in our follow-
up stroke clinic at 1, 3, and 6 months, and the association of RBC indices with these. One
hundred and sixty-two patients with a new diagnosis of ischemic stroke were followed up at 1, 3,
and 6 months, and underwent Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the general anxiety disorder
7-item (GAD-7) questionnaire for evaluation of depression and anxiety, respectively. First,
we used Kaplan-Meier analysis to investigate the accumulated incidences of post-stroke depression
and post-stroke anxiety. Next, to explore the association of RBC indices with psychiatric disorders
after an ischemic stroke attack, we adjusted for demographic and vascular risk factors using
multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results:

Of the 162 patients with new-onset of ischemic stroke, we found the accumulated incidence
rates of PSD (1.2%, 17.9%, and 35.8%) and PSA (1.2%, 13.6%, and 15.4%) at 1, 3, and 6
months, respectively. The incident PSD and PSA increased 3 months after a stroke attack. Multivariate
Cox regression analysis indicated independent positive associations between PSD risk and
higher mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (OR=1.42, 95% CI=1.16-1.76), older age (OR=2.63,
95% CI=1.16-5.93), and a negative relationship between male sex (OR=0.95, 95% CI=0.91-0.99)
and PSA.

Conclusion:

The risks of PSD and PSA increased substantially 3 months beyond stroke onset. Of
the RBC indices, higher MCV, showed an independent positive association with PSD.
Determinants of Use of Long-term Continuous Electrocardiographic Monitoring for Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients without Atrial Fibrillation at Baseline
Authors: Lee Jiann-Der , Huang Yen-Chu , Lee Meng , Lee Tsong-Hai , Kuo Ya-Wen , Hu Ya-Han , Ovbiagele Bruce
Published: April 2020

Background:

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac rhythm disorder associated
with stroke. Increased risk of stroke is the same regardless of whether the AF is permanent
or paroxysmal. However, detecting paroxysmal AF is challenging and resource intensive. We
aimed to develop a predictive model for AF in patients with acute ischemic stroke, which could
improve the detection rate of paroxysmal AF.

Methods:

We analyzed 10,034 adult patients with acute ischemic stroke. Differences in clinical
characteristics between the patients with and without AF were analyzed in order to develop a predictive
model of AF. The associated factors for AF were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression
and classification and regression tree (CART) analyses. We used another dataset, which
enrolled 860 acute ischemic stroke patients without AF at baseline, to test whether the developed
model could improve the detection rate of paroxysmal AF. Among the study population, 1,658 patients
(16.5%) had AF.

Results:

Multivariate logistic regression revealed that sex, age, body weight, hypertension, diabetes
mellitus, hyperlipidemia, pulse rate at admission, respiratory rate at admission, systolic blood
pressure at admission, diastolic blood pressure at admission, National Institute of Health Stroke
Scale (NIHSS) score at admission, total cholesterol level, triglyceride level, aspartate transaminase
level, and sodium level were major factors associated with AF. CART analysis identified NIHSS
score at admission, age, triglyceride level, and aspartate transaminase level as important factors for
AF to classify the patients into subgroups.

Conclusions:

When selecting the high-risk group of patients (with an NIHSS score >12 and age
>64.5 years, or with an NIHSS score ≤12, age >71.5 years, and triglyceride level ≤61.5 mg/dL) according
to the CART model, the detection rate of paroxysmal AF was approximately double in the
acute ischemic stroke patients without AF at baseline.
Bioinformatics-based Identification of Proteins Expressed by Arthropod- borne Viruses Transmitted by Aedes Aegypti Mosquito
Authors: Polanco Carlos , Uversky Vladimir N. , Huberman Alberto , Andrés Leire , Buhse Thomas , Castañón-González Jorge Alberto , Sánchez-Guerrero Alma Fernanda
Published: April 2020

Background:

The female Aedes aegypti mosquito is a vector of several arthropod-borne
viruses, such as Mayaro, Dengue, Chikungunya, Yellow Fever, and Zika. These viruses cause the
death of at least 600000 people a year and temporarily disable several million more around the
world. Up to date, there are no effective prophylactic measures that would prevent the contact and
bite of this arthropod and, therefore, its consequential contagion.

Objective:

The objective of the present study was to search for the regularities of the proteins expressed
by these five viruses, at residues level, and obtain a “bioinformatic fingerprint” to select
them.

Methods:

We used two bioinformatic systems, our in-house bioinformatic system named Polarity
Index Method® (PIM®) supported at residues level, and the commonly used algorithm for the prediction
of intrinsic disorder predisposition, PONDR® FIT. We applied both programs to the 29 proteins
that express the five groups of arboviruses studied, and we calculated for each of them their
Polarity Index Method® profile and their intrinsic disorder predisposition. This information was
then compared with analogous information for other protein groups, such as proteins from bacteria,
fungi, viruses, and cell-penetrating peptides from the UniProt database, and a set of intrinsically disordered
proteins. Once the “fingerprint” of each group of arboviruses was obtained, these “fingerprints”
were searched among the 559228 “reviewed” proteins from the UniProt database.

Results:

In total, 1736 proteins were identified from the 559228 “reviewed” proteins from the
UniProt database, with similar “PIM® profile” to the 29 mutated proteins that express the five
groups of arboviruses.

Conclusion:

We propose that the “PIM® profile” of characterization of proteins might be useful for
the identification of proteins expressed by arthropod-borne viruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti
mosquito.
Validated RP-LC Methods for Investigating the Degradation Behavior of Acefylline: Application for Analysis in Two Binary Mixtures
Authors: EL-Houssini Ola Mohamed , Zawilla Nagwan Hamdi , Mohammad Mohammad Abdul-Azim
Published: April 2020

Background:

Acefylline (Acef) is a derivative of theophylline that has bronchodilator effects. Two binary
mixtures were marketed for Acef: Acefylline piperazine/ Phenobarbitone (Acef-P/Phen) and Acefylline
heptaminol/ Cinnarizine (Acef-H/ Cinn). To our knowledge none of the reported methods had the capacity to
determine Acef in its binary mixture in presence of its degradation products and potential impurity theophylline
(Theo).

Methods:

Two validated RP-LC methods were established for the determination of Acef-P/Phen and Acef-H/
Cinn in presence of Acef degradation products and its potential impurity Theo. A complete study of the forced
acidic, alkaline and oxidative degradation of Acef was presented. The methods were based on LC separation on
RP C18 columns using isocratic and gradient elution for Acef-P /Phen and Acef-H /Cinn mixtures, respectively.
Different chromatographic conditions were examined and optimized.

Results:

Linear responses were attained over concentration ranges of 75-500/15-1000 μg/mL and 100-1000 /50-
500 μg/mL with mean percentage recoveries of (100.72±1.23)%/ (99.29±1.12)% and (100.44±1.27)%/
(99.01±0.97)% for Acef-P/Phen and Acef-H /Cinn, respectively. ICH guidelines were used for methods
validation and all parameters were found to be acceptable.

Conclusion:

The methods showed to be accurate, precise and specific for the analysis of Acef-P/Phen and AcefH /Cinn in drug substance, drug product and in laboratory prepared mixtures in presence of Theo and up to 50%
of degradation products. The structures of the main degradation products and the expected degradation pathway
were suggested using the MS data.
Quantification and Pharmacokinetics Study of Pedunculoside in Rats by Using UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Yang Aiping , Dong Jiajia , Zhao Huimin , Zhang Qichun , Zhu Xuyu , Gao Lina , Ding Ning , Li Caihong , Peng Ren , Lu Tulin , Hu Lihong , Wang Xiachang
Published: April 2020

Background:

Pedunculoside (PE) is a triterpene saponin from the barks of Ilex rotunda, a Traditional Chinese
Medicine called Jiubiying, which is used for the treatment of cold and fever, tonsillitis, sore throat, acute and chronic
hepatitis, etc. Previous studies have confirmed that crude extract orally has a significant therapeutic effect on myocardial
infarction.

Methods:

A simple, sensitive, and specific method by using UPLC-MS/MS to study the pharmacokinetics
of PE in rats was developed and validated, with ilexsaponin A as an internal standard. Methanol
was used as a protein precipitation reagent for blood sample extraction. A Waters Acquity C18 column
(2.1 mm × 50 mm, 1.7 μm) was used for chromatographic separation with a gradient elution of
CH3CN: 0.1% formic acid (0.3 mL·min-1). Negative ion electrospray ionization was used for detection
in multiple reaction monitoring mode.

Results:

PE was linear within the concentration range of 0.14-1118.00 ng/mL. The LLOQ was 0.14
ng/mL for the plasma samples. The intra-day and inter-day precision were ranged from 1.18% to
10.48%, while the accuracy ranged from -1.32% to 1.68%, indicating satisfactory precision and accuracy
of the assay. The extraction recoveries for PE and IS were ranged from 81.40% to 86.65%, with
no significant variation among the three concentrations, respectively. PE remained stable at room
temperature (25°C) for 3 h, in auto-sampler (4°C) for 24 h, after three freeze-thaw cycles, and in
long-term storage at ‒20°C for 30 days. The PK results of PE indicated its poor oral bioavailability
(3.37%).

Conclusion:

Non-compartmental pharmacokinetics parameters indicated that PE was rapidly distributed to the tissues
and metabolized. The pharmacokinetic data of this paper highlighted the first-time report of PE oral bioavailability with
two different administration manners, which will help to better understand how PE metabolized in rats and exert its
pharmacological effect in vivo.
Nanomaterials and Aging
Authors: Mao Chen-Chen , Cai Xiaoxiao
Published: April 2020

As the proportion of the elderly population increases, more and more people suffer from
aging-related diseases. Even if aging is inevitable, prolonging the time of healthy aging, delaying the
progression of aging-related diseases, and the incidence of morbidity can greatly alleviate the pressure
on individuals and society. Current research and exploration in the field of materials related to aging
are expanding tremendously. Here, we present a summary of recent research in the field of nanomaterials
relevant to aging. Some nanomaterials, such as silica nanomaterials (NMs) and carbon nanotubes,
cause damage to the cells similar to aging processes. Other nanomaterials such as fullerenes and metalbased
nanomaterials can protect the body from endogenous and exogenous harmful substances such as
ROS by virtue of their excellent reducing properties. Another new type of nucleic acid nanomaterial,
tetrahedral framework nucleic acids, works effectively against cell damage. This material selectively
clears existing senescent cells in the tissue and thus prevents the development of the chronic inflammatory
environment caused by senescent cells secreting senescence-associated secretory phenotype to the
surroundings. We believe that nanomaterials have tremendous potential to advance the understanding
and treatment of aging-related disorders, and today's research only represents the beginning stages.
Regulation and Effect of Telomerase and Telomeric Length in Stem Cells
Authors: Celtikci Basak , Erkmen Gulnihal Kulaksiz , Dikmen Zeliha Gunnur
Published: April 2020

Telomeres are the protective end caps of eukaryotic chromosomes and they determine the
proliferative lifespan of somatic cells, as the protectors of cell replication. Telomere length in leucocytes
reflects telomere length in other somatic cells. Leucocyte telomere length can be a biomarker of
human ageing. The risk of diseases associated with reduced cell proliferation and tissue degeneration,
including aging or aging-associated diseases, such as dyskeratosis congenita, cardiovascular diseases,
pulmonary fibrosis and aplastic anemia, is correlated with an increase in the shortening of telomeres.
On the other hand, the risk of diseases that are associated with increased proliferative growth, including
major cancers, is correlated with long telomeres. In most of the cancers, a telomere maintenance
mechanism during DNA replication is essential. The reactivation of the functional ribonucleoprotein
holoenzyme complex (telomerase) starts the cascade from normal and premalignant somatic cells to
advanced malignant cells. Telomerase is overexpressed during the development of cancer and embryonic
stem cells, through controlling genome integrity, cancer formation and stemness. Cancer cells
have mechanisms to maintain telomeres to avoid initiation of cellular senescence or apoptosis, and
halting cell division by critically short telomeres. Modulation of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase
is the rate-limiting step for the production of functional telomerase and telomere maintenance.
The human telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter promotes its gene expression only in
tumor cells, but not in normal cells. Some cancers activate an alternative expansion of telomeres
maintenance mechanism via DNA recombination to reduce the shortening of their telomeres. Not only
heritability but also oxidative stress, inflammation, environmental factors, and therapeutic interventions
have an effect on telomere shortening, explaining the variability in telomere length across individuals.
There have been a large number of publications, which correlate human diseases with progressive
telomere shortening. Telomere length of an individual at birth is also important to follow up
telomere shortening, and it can be used as a biomarker for healthy aging. On the other hand, understanding
of cellular stress factors, which affect stem cell behavior, will be useful in regeneration or
treatment of cancer and age-associated diseases. In this review, we will understand the connection
between stem cell and telomere biology, cancer, and aging-associated diseases. This connection may
be useful for discovering novel drug targets and improve outcomes for patients having cancer and
aging-associated diseases.
Antitumor Effect of Cycle Inhibiting Factor Expression in Colon Cancer via Salmonella VNP20009
Authors: Liu Liang , Zhang Junhua , Gu Mingqiang , Li Guichao , Ni Jianjiao , Fan Min
Published: April 2020

Background:

Colon cancer is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cycle
inhibiting factors (Cifs) have been shown to deamidate Nedd8, resulting in cell cycle arrest.

Objective:

To determine the antitumor effect of Cifs on colon cancer by using attenuated Salmonella typhimurium
VNP20009.

Methods:

The VNP-SOPE2-cif and VNP-SOPE2-cif-C/A plasmids were transfected into attenuated Salmonella
typhimurium VNP20009. The efficiency and specificity of the Cif promoter were validated in colon cancer
SW480 cell lines. Western blotting was subsequently performed to evaluate cell cycle regulators, including P21,
P27 and Wee1. In vivo, the antitumor effect of VNP20009 was evaluated in a colon cancer xenograft model.

Results:

Firstly, VNP-SOPE2-cif and VNP-SOPE2-cif-C/A were selectively expressed both in the bacterial and
colon cancer cells. Cif expression in SW480 cells via the VNP tumor-targeted expression system induced the
accumulation of Wee1, p21 and p27 expression. Moreover, tumor growth was significantly inhibited in the mice
with VNP-SOPE2-cif compared to the mice with VNP with the empty construct.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that Cif gene delivered by VNP20009 is a promising approach for the
treatment of colon cancer.
Biocompatible Delivery System for Metformin: Characterization, Radiolabeling and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Aydın Burcu , Uçar Eser , Tekin Volkan , İçhedef Çiğdem , Teksöz Serap
Published: April 2020

Background:

In recent years, the uses of nanotechnology in medicine have an increasing potential as
an effective nanocarrier system. These systems are improved with the purpose of maximizing therapeutic
activity and minimizing undesirable side-effects. Moreover, radiolabeled nanoparticles can be used as agents for
diagnosis and therapeutic purposes in clinical applications. They have three main components: the core, the
targeting biomolecule, and the radionuclide.

Objective:

It is aimed to synthesize Metformin (MET) loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (MET-SLN) and
radiolabeled with technetium-99m tricarbonyl core.

Methods:

The structure of synthesized nanoparticles was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared
Spectroscopy (FTIR). The particle size and morphology of nanoparticles were examined by Dynamic Light
Scattering (DLS), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Quality control studies of radiolabeled MET-SLN
[99mTc(CO)3-MET-SLN] were performed by High-Performance Liquid Radiochromatography (HPLRC) and
Thin Layer Radiochromatography (TLRC).

Results:

The radiolabeling yield of [99mTc(CO)3-MET-SLN] was found to be 88%. In vitro studies have been
performed on cancer lines(MCF7, MDA-MD-231 breast, and HEPG2 liver cancer cells) to determine the
biological behavior of 99mTc(CO)3-MET-SLNs.

Conclusion:

The results showed that higher uptake values were observed on estrogen-positive MCF7 breast
cancer cell line according to estrogen negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer and HEPG2 liver cancer cell lines.
Research on Dynamic Optimization Method of Embedded Multi-core Performance based on Runtime
Authors: Huang Ying , Fang Xiaoyong , Zeng Yihuang , Huang Zhixin , Guo Hongtao
Published: April 2020

:

Embedded multi-core systems often show special limitations in sharing resources and
storage capacity, which will lead to the reduction of parallel efficiency due to bandwidth, data competition
and other factors. In this paper, a run-time optimization framework is proposed to dynamically
and adaptively adjust parallel strategies according to the structure of different parallel programs.
On the one hand, the performance analysis model of a parallel program structure is established
to get the number of threads during the best performance. On the other hand, in view of the
load imbalance in parallel thread execution, an adaptive dynamic scheduling algorithm is proposed
to dynamically select the size of the scheduling block. Experimental results show that the proposed
dynamic scheduling strategy can improve program performance and achieve improvement of the
performance of the embedded multi-core system.

Background:

Embedded multi-core systems often have special limitations in sharing resources and
storage capacity. These limitations often lead to parallel programs running with lower parallel efficiency
due to bandwidth, data competition and other factors.

Objective:

In order to improve the performance of embedded multi-core systems, parallel strategies
can be adjusted dynamically and adaptively for different parallel program structures.

Methods:

A control mechanism of the thread count based on runtime information feedback is proposed,
which enables the system to dynamically select the number of threads when the program runs
best according to the structure characteristics of parallel programs. Then, an adaptive dynamic
scheduling algorithm is proposed to solve the load imbalance in parallel program execution.

Results:

An optimization framework based on run-time architecture is presented, which consists of
two parts: performance monitoring and control interface. It can take corresponding optimization
strategies according to the running state of parallel programs.

Conclusion:

The performance of the embedded multi-core system is improved.
Development of Centreless Electric Discharge Grinding Machining Process and Optimization of Process Parameters
Authors: Shekhawat MS , Mali Harlal Singh , Rathore APS
Published: April 2020

Aims & Objective:

Producing thin walled rotationally symmetrical parts of difficult-to-machine materials by electrical
discharge machining is an evolving field of research. Poor heat transmissivity, high hot strength and in-process deflection of
thin walled Inconel 600 parts puts great challenge for its processing by conventional machining methods.

Methods:

In this study a novel hybrid process called centreless electric discharge grinding(CEDG) is employed for machining
of Inconel 600 tubes using rotating disc wheel electrode to improve process parameters. This paper details about the
experimental findings of the influence of four process parameters viz. pulse on time, peak current, gap voltage, and duty cycle
on the responses viz. average material removal rate (MRR) and average surface roughness(Ra). Response surface method’s
(RSM) central composite design was implemented to determine the effects of parameters on responses. Analysis of variance
(ANOVA) techniques were employed to establish the adequacy of the mathematical models and to analyse the significance of
regression coefficients. RSM’s desirability approach was used to solve the multi-response optimization.

Results:

It was clearly noticed that the peak current and gap voltage were the most influential parameters to affect the MRR
and surface roughness. Maximum average MRR of 473 mg per min. was achieved at pulse on time 60µs, peak current 25 amps,
gap voltage 40 V, at duty cycle of 8 while minimum average surface roughness of 8.4 µm Ra was obtained at pulse on time
40µs, peak current 15 amps, gap voltage 40 V, and duty cycle 6.

Conclusion:

Confirmation run was conducted by adjusting the variables at optimal level within the selected range. It was
concluded that optimum level of variables can be determined for optimized responses prior to conduct of experiment.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Research on Mobile Payment Systems
Authors: Ramtiyal Bharti , Verma Deepak , Rathore Ajay Pal Singh , Mittal Sameer
Published: April 2020

This article performs a bibliometric analysis of Mobile Payment System (MPS) research
conducted throughout history. A large database of research articles published in the domain of MPS
is created. Major statistical facts are presented like publication growth by years, associated research
areas, type of articles, source titles, and country of publication, dominant research institutions, and
authors along with journals. Additionally, some future insights for research are presented along with
some possible theoretical recommendations that could be tested are proposed.
Multiple-valued Decision Diagrams for Multi-state System Performability Analysis
Authors: Gong Yuhuan , Mo Yuchang
Published: April 2020

Background:

In a multi-state system, either the entire system or its components will have
more than two states. Different kind of multi-state systems have been investigated, such as multistate
series-parallel systems, multi-state k-out-of-n systems and multi-state linear consecutive-k-outof-
n systems.

Methods:

Performability analysis is concerned with the calculation of probability distribution of
different system performance levels. In this paper, Multi-valued Decision Diagram (MDD) based
approaches are discussed to conduct the performability analysis of multi-state systems.

Results:

Examples are provided to illustrate the use of MDD approaches for three types of multistate
systems, e.g. multi-state series-parallel systems, multi-state k-out-of-n systems and multi-state
linear consecutive-k-out-of-n systems.

Conclusion:

The empirical results show that the MDD approaches have lower computational complexity
than the traditional methods in model generation and evaluation.
Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus Associated with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Jordanian Patients
Authors: Khasawneh Ashraf I. , Himsawi Nisreen , Abu-Raideh Jumana , Salameh Muna , Abdullah Niveen , Khasawneh Rame , Saleh Tareq
Published: April 2020

Background:

In addition to smoking and alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading etiology for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC). However, this causal association is still understudied in Middle Eastern populations.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HPV-associated infection in the Jordanian HNSCC patients and the associated HPV genotypes.

Methods:

Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) squamous cell carcinoma samples of the head and neck were collected from two referral centers in Amman, Jordan to determine the existence of HPV DNA. After DNA extraction HPV infection and genotyping were identified using real-time PCR.

Results:

HPV DNA was detected in 19 out of 61 (31.1%) HNSCC samples. Despite screening for 28 different genotypes, HPV 16 was the only genotype identified in all examined samples. Most HPV-positive samples were obtained from the oropharynx (41.7%), oral cavity (37%), and larynx (18.2%). No significant association between HPV 16 genotype and age, sex, tobacco use, anatomical location, or tumor grade was noticed.

Conclusion:

This study reported a high association between HPV 16 genotype and HNSCC in Jordanian patients. These data should facilitate the implementation of appropriate HPV awareness campaigns, and activate selective prophylactic measures against HPV infection.
Antibacterial Activities of Culture-dependent Bacteria Isolated from Apis nigrocincta Gut
Authors: Lombogia Christian A. , Tulung Max , Posangi Jimmy , Tallei Trina E.
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Apis nigrocincta is a honeybee endemic to Mindanao island (the Philippines), Sangihe island (North Sulawesi, Indonesia) and Sulawesi mainland (Indonesia). The genus Apis is well known to have symbiont in their guts, which helps balance the microbiome in the gut and host health.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine whether the bacteria isolated from the gut of honeybee Apis nigrocincta produce metabolites with potential growth inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escerichia coli, the bacteria which are important pathogens in humans and animals.

Methods:

Bacteria isolated from honeybee gut were cultured in MRSA and several isolates were purified for testing. The antibacterial activity test method used in this study was well diffusion agar. Pure isolates were grown on NB. The treatments given were heating and also neutralizing the supernatant from each isolate.

Results:

Five bacterial isolates were successfully isolated from honeybee gut and purified. The five isolates showed antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacterial strain indicators. The results of molecular identification showed that four of these isolates were Bacillus cereus and the other one was Staphylococcus arlettae. Neutralized supernatant showed strong activity on both indicator strains. The five isolates showed higher inhibition activity against S. aureus compared to E. coli.

Conclusion:

The finding of this research concluded that two bacterial strains, B. cereus and S. arlettae isolated from A. nigrocincta gut can be investigated further as agents which produce bioactive compounds that have potential as an antibacterial.
The Role of 18FDG PET/CT in the Assessment of Endocarditis, Myocarditis and Pericarditis
Authors: Giorgetti Assuero , Genovesi Dario , Emdin Michele
Published: April 2020

Endocarditis, myocarditis and pericarditis are a heterogeneous group of phenotypic syndromes
where the culprit area of inflammation is the heart. Inflammation may be determined by an
infective agent, toxins, drugs or an activated immune system. Clinical manifestations can be subtle
and diagnosis remains a challenge for cardiologists, requiring high level of suspicion and advanced
multimodal cardiac imaging to avoid life-threatening consequences. The purpose of this review is
to report the recent advances of PET/CT imaging with 18FDG in helping the management of patients
affected by inflammatory heart disease. Two independent reviewers searched in PubMed articles
published before or in June 2019 and final decisions on the inclusion of references were done
in consensus with a third reviewer. At the end of the selection process 23/206 articles on “cardiac
inflammation”; 26/235 articles on “endocarditis”, “prosthetic heart valve”, “pacemaker”, “implantable
cardiac device”; 7/103 articles on “myocarditis”; 13/330 articles on sarcoidosis” and 2/19
articles on “pericarditis” were included. Compared with the conventional methods, molecular imaging
has the advantage to non-invasively and directly trace the inflammatory process, and to identify
earlier the presence and the extent of intra-cardiac and extra-cardiac involvement, to enable quantification
of disease activity, guide therapeutic interventions, and monitor treatment success.
Sol-gel Growth of Ni-doped CdS on Glass Substrates: Effect of Spin Coating Speed and Dopant Concentration
Authors: Setayesh Atefeh N. , Sedghi Hassan
Published: April 2020

Background:

In this work, CdS thin films were synthesized by the sol-gel method (spin
coating technique) on glass substrates to investigate the optical behavior of the film.

Methods:

Different substrate spin coating speeds of 2400, 3000, 3600 rpm and different Ni dopant
concentrations of 0 wt.%, 2.5 wt.%, and 5 wt.%) were investigated. The optical properties of thin
films, such as the refraction index, extinction coefficient, dielectric constant, and optical bandgap
energy of the layers were discussed using spectroscopic ellipsometry method in the wavelength
range of 300 to 900 nm.

Results:

It can be deduced that substrate rotation speed and dopant concentration have an influence
on the optical properties of thin films by decreasing the rotation speed of the substrate, which
results in films with more thicknesses, and more optical interferences were observed in the results.

Conclusion:

The samples doped with Ni, when compared to pure ones, were found to have more
optical bandgap energy.
Genotoxic Impurities in Ranitidine Containing Products: An Overview
Authors: Bhosale Shailesh , Kant Kamal , Goyal Divya , Kumar Anoop
Published: April 2020

Ranitidine is a well known H2 blocker antihistaminic drug used for symptomatic relief
of heartburn, indigestion, acid indigestion, peptic ulcer and hyperacidity. However, On 13th September
2019, the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has given an alerting
statement regarding the presence of nitrosamine impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine
(NDMA) in ranitidine containing products. Recently, some pharmaceutical companies have also
recalled their ranitidine containing products from the market. Thus, there is a need to understand
about these impurities in ranitidine containing products. The first part of this article highlights the
mechanism of action of ranitidine in established therapeutic indications along with its adverse
drug reactions and contraindications. Further, the introduction of genotoxic impurities in pharmaceutical
products along with its types and mechanism of toxicity of ranitidine containing genotoxic
impurity have been discussed.