bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and biochemical characterisation of Acanthamoeba castellanii cysteine protease 3
Authors: Wang Zhixin , Wu Duo , Tachibana Hiroshi , Feng Meng , Cheng Xunjia
Published: November 2020

Background: Acanthamoeba spp. are free-living amoeba that are ubiquitously distributed in the environment. This study examines pathogenic Acanthamoeba cysteine proteases (AcCPs) belonging to the cathepsin L-family and explores the mechanism of AcCP3 interaction with host cells.Methods: Six AcCP genes were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Quantitative real-time PCR was used to analyse the relative mRNA expression of AcCPs during the encystation process, and between pre- and post-reactivated trophozoites. To further verify the role of AcCP3 in these processes, AcCP3 recombinant proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli, and the hydrolytic activity of AcCP3 was determined. The influence of the AcCP3 on the hydrolytic activity of trophozoites and the toxicity of trophozoites to human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) was examined by inhibiting AcCP3 expression using siRNA. Further, the levels of p-Raf and p-Erk were examined in HCECs following coculture with AcCP3 gene knockdown trophozoites by western blotting.Results: During encystation, five out of six AcCPs exhibited decreased expression, and only AcCP6 was substantially up-regulated at the mRNA level, indicating that most AcCPs were not directly correlated to encystation. Further, six AcCPs exhibited increased expression level following trophozoite reactivation with HEp-2 cells, particularly AcCP3, indicating that these AcCPs might be virulent factors. After refolding of recombinant AcCP3 protein, the 27 kDa mature protein from the 34 kDa pro-protein hydrolysed host haemoglobin, collagen and albumin, and showed high activity in an acidic environment. After AcCP3 knockdown, the hydrolytic activity of trophozoite crude protein against gelatin was decreased, suggesting that these trophozoite had decreased toxicity. Compared with untreated trophozoites or negative control siRNA-treated trophozoites, AcCP3-knockdown trophozoites were less able to penetrate and damage monolayers of HCECs. Western blot analysis showed that the activation levels of the Ras/Raf/Erk/p53 signalling pathways in HCECs decreased after inhibiting the expression of trophozoite AcCP3.Conclusions: AcCP6 was correlated to encystation. Further, AcCP3 was a virulent factor in trophozoites, and participated in the activation of the Ras/Raf/Erk/p53 signalling pathways of host cells.
Identification of an IRF10 gene in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) and analysis of its function in the antiviral and antibacterial immune response
Authors: Zhu Yaoyao , Shan Shijuan , Zhao Huaping , Liu Rongrong , Wang Hui , Chen Xinping , Yang Guiwen , Li Hua
Published: November 2020

Background: Interferon (IFN) regulatory factors (IRFs), as transcriptional regulatory factors, play important roles in regulating the expression of type I IFN and IFN stimulated genes (ISGs) in innate immune responses. In addition, they participate in cell growth and development and regulate oncogenesis. Results: In the present study, the cDNA sequence of IRF10 in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) was characterized (abbreviation, CcIRF10). The predicted protein sequence of CcIRF10 shared 52.7-89.2% identity with other teleost IRF10s and contained a DNA-binding domain (DBD), a nuclear localization signal (NLS) and an IRF-associated domain (IAD). Phylogenetic analysis showed that CcIRF10 had the closest relationship with IRF10 of Ctenopharyngodon idella. CcIRF10 transcripts were detectable in all examined tissues, with the highest expression in the gonad and the lowest expression in the head kidney. CcIRF10 expression was upregulated in the spleen, head kidney, foregut and hindgut upon polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) and Aeromonas hydrophila stimulation and induced by poly I:C, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and peptidoglycan (PGN) in peripheral blood leucocytes (PBLs) and head kidney leukocytes (HKLs) of C. carpio. In addition, overexpression of CcIRF10 was able to decrease the expression of the IFN and IFN stimulated genes PKR and ISG15. Conclusions: These results indicate that CcIRF10 participates in antiviral and antibacterial immunity and negatively regulates the IFN response, which provides new insights into the IFN system of C. carpio.
Injury Mechanism Affects the Stability of Suture-Button Syndesmosis Fixation.
Authors: Chen Kuan Hao , Chen Chih Hwa , Huang Yu Min , Lee Hsieh Hsing , Tsuang Yang Hwei
Published: November 2020

Background: Ankle syndesmosis injury is a common condition, and the injury mechanism can be sorted into pure-syndesmosis injury, Weber-B and Weber-C type fractures. This study aims to evaluate the treatment outcomes and stability of suture-button fixation for syndesmosis injury with different injury mechanisms. We hypothesized that injury mechanisms would alter the stability of suture-button fixation.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 63 patients with ankle syndesmosis injury underwent surgery with TightRope (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) from April 2014 to February 2019. The stability of suture-button fixation with TightRope were evaluated by comparing the preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up measurements of tibiofibular clear space (TFCS), tibiofibular overlap (TFO), and medial clear space (MCS). A subgroup analysis for each demographic group and injury type including pure-syndesmosis injury, Weber-B and Weber-C type fractures were performed.Results: Syndesmosis was effectively reduced using TightRope. After the index surgery, the tibiofibular clear space was reduced from 7.73 mm to 4.04 mm, the tibiofibular overlap was increased from 3.05 mm to 6.44 mm, and the medial clear space was reduced from 8.12 mm to 3.54 mm. However, syndesmosis widening was noted at the final follow-up, especially in Weber-C type fractures (TFCS: 3.82 to 4.45 mm, p < 0.01 and TFO: 6.86 to 6.29 mm, p = 0.04). Though widened, the final follow-up values of tibiofibular clear space and tibiofibular overlap were in the acceptable range. Postoperatively and at the final follow-up, medial clear space was found to be significantly larger in the Weber-C group than in the pure syndesmosis and Weber-B groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Suture-button fixation can offer anatomic reduction and dynamic fixation in syndesmosis injuries. However, when using this modality for Weber-C type fractures, more attention should be focused on the accuracy of reduction, especially of medial clear space, and rediastasis should be carefully monitored.Trial registration: This trial was retrospectively approved by TMU-JIRB. Registration number N202004122, and the date of approval was May 06, 2020.
Analysis of the Spatial Distribution of Aedes Albopictus by Indicator Kriging in an Urban Area of Shanghai, China
Authors: Zhou Yibin , Liu Hongxia , Leng Peien , Zhu Jiang , Yao Shenjun , Zhu Yiyi , Wu Huanyu
Published: November 2020

Background: Aedes albopictus is a well-recognized vector of major arboviral diseases and a primary pest in tropical and temperate regions of China. In the current monitoring system for the spread of Ae. albopictus based on the sub-district scale in most cities of China, spatial distribution has not been considered for the analysis of the density of species. So, the system is not accurate enough for epidemic investigations, especially in big cities like Shanghai.Methods: In this study, an improved surveillance program integrating the actual monitoring locations was used to investigate the temporal and spatial distribution of Ae. albopictus abundance in an urban area of Shanghai, China, from 2018 to 2019 by using the mosquito-oviposition trap (MOT) method. The study area of 14 sub-districts was divided into 133 grids. The vector abundance and spatial structure of Ae. Albopictus were predicted by the indicator Kriging based on eight MOTs in each grid. Meanwhile, the light trap (LT) method was also used for the analysis and compared with the MOT method.Results: A total of 8,192 MOTs were placed in the study area in 2018, and 7,917 (96.6%) were retrieved with a positive rate of 6.45%, while in 2019, 22,715 (97.0%) of 23,408 MOTs were recovered with a positive rate of 5.44%. When using the LT method, 273 (93.5%) and 312 (94.5%) adult female Ae. albopictus were gathered in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The Ae. albopictus populations in the urban area of Shanghai increased slowly from May, reached a peak in July, and declined gradually from September. The MOT positivity index (MPI) showed a significant positive spatial autocorrelation across the study area, while LT collections indicated a non-significant spatial autocorrelation. The MPI was suitable for spatial interpolation by using the indicator Kriging and showed different hotspots in different years.Conclusions: The improved surveillance system integrating geographic information can help improve our understanding of the spatial and temporal distribution of Ae. albopictus in urban areas of Shanghai and could provide a practical method for decision-makers to implement vector control and management of mosquitoes.
Model uncertainty and decision making: Predicting the Impact of COVID-19 Using the CovidSim Epidemiological Code
Authors: Edeling Wouter , Hamid Arabnejad , Sinclair Robert , Suleimenova Diana , Gopalakrishnan Krishnakumar , Bosak Bartosz , Groen Derek , Mahmood Imran , Crommelin Daan , Coveney Peter
Published: November 2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) virus has rapidly spread worldwide since December 2019, and early modelling work of this pandemic has assisted in identifying effective government interventions. The UK government relied in part on the CovidSim model developed by the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis at Imperial College London, to model various non-pharmaceutical intervention strategies, and guide its government policy in seeking to deal with the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic during March and April 2020. CovidSim is subject to different sources of uncertainty, namely parametric uncertainty in the inputs, model structure uncertainty (i.e., missing epidemiological processes) and scenario uncertainty, which relates to uncertainty in the set of conditions under which the model is applied. We have undertaken an extensive parametric sensitivity analysis and uncertainty quantification of the current CovidSim code. From the over 900 parameters that are provided as input to CovidSim, we identified a key subset of 19 parameters to which the code output is most sensitive. We find that the uncertainty in the code is substantial, in the sense that imperfect knowledge in these inputs will be magnified to the outputs, up to the extent of ca. 300%. Most of this uncertainty can be traced back to the sensitivity of three parameters. Compounding this, the model can display significant bias with respect to observed data, such that the output variance does not capture this validation data with high probability. We conclude that quantifying the parametric input uncertainty is not sufficient, and that the effect of model structure and scenario uncertainty cannot be ignored when validating the model in a probabilistic sense.
Functionalized osteoarthritis targeting peptides for MRI, lubricant and regenerative medicine
Authors: Lin Chin-Yu , Wang Yung-Li , Chi Yi-Hsuan , Chan Long Yi , Chen Kuan-Wen , Hsu Horng-Chaung , Hwang Dennis W , Wu Han-Chung , Hung Shih-Chieh
Published: November 2020

Despite the efforts made for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment, the results are limited and can be improved by enhancing the OA homing strategy. Here, we used a phage display system to identify OA-targeting peptides, and combined them with magnetic resonance imaging detection reagents to expand their application to early OA diagnosis in rat and swine models. OA-targeting peptides showed better static and kinetic friction characteristics than scrambled peptides, when conjugated with hyaluronic acid for rheological lubrication studies using human OA specimens. Furthermore, mesenchymal stem cells, through CD44 binding to hyaluronic acid conjugated with OA-targeting peptides, showed better capacity for OA homing and repair than those conjugated with scrambled peptides. Protein–peptide docking revealed WXPXW as the consensus binding motifs that bind to collagen XII, a protein exclusively expressed in human and animal OA models. These results suggest the potential of OA-targeting peptides to promote diagnosis, treatment, and regenerative medicine for OA.
Prehospital Prediction of a Time-sensitive Condition Among Patients With Dizziness Assessed by the Emergency Medical Service 
Authors: Magnusson Carl , Gärskog Julia , Lökholm Elin , Stenström Jonny , Wetter Rickard , Axelsson Christer , Hagiwara Magnus Andersson , Packendorff Niclas , Jood Katarina , Karlsson Thomas , Herlitz Johan
Published: November 2020

Background: Dizziness is a relatively common symptom among patients who call for the emergency medical service (EMS).Methods: All patients assessed by the EMS and triaged using the rapid emergency triage and treatment system for adults code 11 (=dizziness) in the 660,000 inhabitants in the Municipality of Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2016, were considered for inclusion. The patients were divided into two groups according to the final diagnosis (a time-sensitive condition, yes or no).Results: There were 1,536 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria, of which 96 (6.2%) had a time-sensitive condition. The majority of these had an acute cerebrovascular disease. Eight predictors of a time-sensitive condition were identified. Three were associated with a reduced risk: 1) the dizziness was of a rotatory type, 2) the dizziness had a sudden onset and 3) increasing body temperature. Five were associated with an increased risk: 1) sudden onset of headache, 2) a history of head trauma, 3) symptoms of nausea or vomiting, 4) on treatment with anticoagulants and 5) increasing systolic blood pressure.Conclusion: Among 1,536 patients who were assessed by the EMS due to dizziness, 6.2% had a time-sensitive condition. On the arrival of the EMS, eight factors were associated with the risk of having a time-sensitive condition. They were linked to the type of symptoms, to clinical findings on the arrival of the EMS and to the recent clinical history.
Plastic Drape and Copper Frame For Airway Management in the COVID-19 Era: A Case Series
Authors: Mainville Darcy J. , Hou Borin , Chrissian Ara A. , Giri Paresh C. , Chang Melody M. , Turay David , Shipley Desara , Markovich Susan , Scott Loreen K. , Smith Dustin D. , Dorotta Ihab R. , Nguyen H. Bryant , Mukherjee Kaushik
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Airway manipulation is a high-risk procedure due to aerosolization of viral particles. This has become of paramount importance during the COVID-19 pandemic in an effort to protect personnel involved in airway management. We designed and tested a copper frame to support a plastic drape to contain aerosols and allow for reduction of risk during airway management. The “CopperHead” frame allows airway management with minimal limitations in a wide range of scenarios including elective and urgent intubations, management of unstable patients, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), bronchoscopy, and extubation. The frame was made of copper to utilize its inherent antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Intervention and Measurements: We performed multiple simulations to measure FiO2 accumulation underneath the frame and plastic drape. We also performed defibrillations on a mannequin with the apparatus in place to evaluate for safety during times that the device is not removed prior to defibrillation, as indicated. We then deployed the device throughout our hospital and analyzed the resulting data on procedure success and infection rates in both COVID-positive and COVID-negative cohorts.Main Results: The technique is reproducible and allows for airway manipulation in COVID-19 suspected or confirmed patients. The FiO2 under the copper frame and plastic drape increased, but quickly dispersed when the frame was removed. We performed multiple defibrillations with apparatus in place with no adverse events. We showed that with the device in place, there appears to be no hindrance to successful intubation with 94 successful procedures in 74 patients and an 87% (60/69) first-pass intubation rate, and there were no documented clinicians or respiratory therapy infections through exposures to COVID-19 positive patients.Conclusions: The addition of a copper frame to a plastic drape over patients was an effective way to improve the safety and ease of intubation in the COVID-19 pandemic. This device was well received among our clinicians and served to benefit both intubation and extubation of recovered patients.
Oxytocin Discontinuation During Induced Labor in Pregnancies With Suspected Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Iwai Sayuri , Mimura Kazuya , Endo Masayuki , Kawanishi Yoko , Kakigano Aiko , Miyake Tatsuya , Matsuzaki Shinya , Tomimatsu Takuji , Kimura Tadashi
Published: November 2020

Objective: Although fetal growth restriction (FGR) is associated with an increased risk of cesarean delivery during induced labor, there is little evidence to guide labor management in such cases. This study aimed to investigate whether discontinuation of oxytocin infusion affects the cesarean delivery rate and the risk of maternal and neonatal complications associated with induced labor in pregnancies with suspected FGR.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies with vertex presentation and indications for labor induction due to FGR after 34.0 weeks of gestation at our institution from January 2010 to December 2017. Two parallel groups were compared: women who received oxytocin continuously until delivery (continuation group) and women whose oxytocin was discontinued at the beginning of the active phase of labor (discontinuation group).Results: There were 74 women in the continuation group and 51 women in the discontinuation group. The incidence of cesarean deliveries was higher (5.4% vs 2.0%) in the continuation group, but this difference was not statistically significant. However, the incidence of uterine tachysystole (23.0% vs 9.8%) was significantly higher in the continuation group than in the discontinuation group. Differences in labor management did not affect the lengths of the active phase and second stage of labor (mean, 136 ± 122 minutes and 34.2 ± 45 minutes, respectively; 122 ± 104 minutes and 48.8±67 minutes in the continuation group and discontinuation group, respectively). The incidence of postpartum hemorrhage and adverse neonatal outcomes were not significantly different between groups.Conclusions: Oxytocin can be safely discontinued after the active phase of labor in women undergoing labor induction for FGR without an increased risk of cesarean delivery or other unfavorable outcomes. Therefore, this strategy may be considered an alternative to continued oxytocin infusion.
Anais I COMFER - Congresso Médico de Fernandópolis - Universidade Brasil
Authors: Rodero Ademir Barianni , Lima Alba Regina Abreu , Lozano André Willian , Miyamoto Janine Hatsumi , Souza José Antônio Santa , Pinto Neto José Martins , Simonato Luciana Estevam , Antônio Luiz Gustavo Madi , Gaggini Márcio Cesar Reino
Published: November 2020

Editorial

Caro(a) Leitor(a),

O Curso de Medicina da Universidade Brasil – Campus Fernandópolis vivenciará, no período de 02 a 05 de março de 2020, a I Congresso Médico de Fernandópolis (I COMFER).

O nosso Congresso traz em sua Grade Científica uma abordagem do mais alto nível, apresentando palestras ministradas por profissionais da área médica do mais alto renome, além dos trabalhos, para apresentação painel, nas modalidades Pesquisa Científica, Caso Clínico, Revisão de Literatura e Projeto de Extensão Universitária.

As palestras, serão ministradas por renomados expoentes da Medicina, sempre embasados no que há de mais atual em termos de pesquisa científica. Serão abordados temas relevantes sobre saúde voltados para a prática clínica, transmitindo e gerando conhecimentos aos participantes deste evento e, desta forma, atingindo e proporcionando benefícios à população.

Peço que todos os participantes deste evento façam uma reflexão sobre a responsabilidade social do médico no que diz respeito à sua atuação para a melhoria da qualidade de vida da sociedade brasileira, valorizando a saúde em geral, celebrando, desta forma, a vida no seu sentido mais amplo.

Convido todos vocês para que desfrutem deste momento, esperando que aproveitem ao máximo os ensinamentos que serão transmitidos. Lembro-os que neste mundo globalizado e competitivo não há como crescer profissionalmente sem agregar novos conhecimentos. Todos os dias!!!

Obrigado, sejam bem vindos,

 

Lucas Osmar Mariano

Presidente Discente do I Congresso Médico de Fernandópolis - Curso de Medicina da Universidade Brasil – Campus Fernandópolis - 2020
Nutraceutical Properties of Pecan Kernels Are Affected by Soil Zinc Fertilizer Application
Authors: Wang Yuqing , Heerema Richard J. , Walworth James L. , Dungan Barry , VanLeeuwen Dawn , Holguin F. Omar
Published: November 2020

Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) has high kernel antioxidant activity and unsaturated fatty acid content, which contribute to its nutraceutical properties. In the western United States, where soils are typically alkaline, pecan trees require frequent zinc (Zn) fertilizer applications to maintain normal canopy growth and nut production. Our objective was to investigate the effects of tree Zn fertilization on nutraceutical properties of ‘Wichita’ and ‘Western’ pecan kernels. Trees were fertilized with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelated Zn, which was applied to the soil at one of three seasonal rates for a total of three treatments: 0 (control), 2.2, or 4.4 kg·ha−1 Zn. Nut samples were collected and homogenized for analyses of kernel oil yield, hydrophilic antioxidant capacity, fatty acid profile, and γ-tocopherol content. Although soil Zn treatments did not significantly affect antioxidant capacity of defatted pecan kernels, Zn application had significant positive effects on both total kernel oil yield and γ-tocopherol content compared with the control. In conclusion, soil application of Zn fertilizer may increase the human health-promoting aspects of pecan kernels, a valuable attribute among health-conscious consumers.
Overview of Selected Natural Gas Drying Methods
Authors: GENEROWICZ Natalia
Published: November 2020

The gas produced from the deposit usually contains various types of pollution. They are the reason for limiting its use, often making its use impossible. Therefore, it requires appropriate treatment. One of the main pollutants in gas is water. Its occurrence causes a lot of problems, especially at the stage of gas transport, such as the formation of hydrates blocking pipelines and apparatus, causes the phenomenon of condensation and corrosion of pipelines, especially if there is carbon dioxide or hydrogen sulphide in the gas. The paper presents a number of methods that enable drying of gas after extraction. Each of them has different parameters that will be achieved for the gas after it is dried. Depending on the required degree of drying, the economics of the process and compatibility with other dependent processes, the individual methods are more or less used in gas engineering. The paper discusses methods of absorption in ethylene glycol solutions, adsorption methods using silica gel, molecular sieves or calcium chloride and low-temperature processes such as Twister® supersonic separator, IFPEX-1® process and DexProTM process.
Saberes e Modos de Vida: por um Projeto Coletivo de Turismo de Base Comunitária na Comunidade Ribeirinha São Gonçalo Beira Rio, Mato Grosso, Brasil
Authors: Alcântara Liliane Cristine Schlemer , Duarte Ana Paula Pereira
Published: November 2020

Frente a crise socioeconômica e ambiental, o Turismo de Base Comunitária (TBC) representa uma alternativa ao desenvolvimento que tem como escopo conservar os recursos naturais, promovendo o bem-estar das comunidades por meio da geração de renda e inclusão social. O objetivo deste estudo está em investigar os principais desafios e possibilidades para o desenvolvimento do turismo de base comunitária na comunidade ribeirinha São Gonçalo Beira Rio, marco da fundação do município de Cuiabá-MT. Metodologicamente optou-se pela pesquisa de campo; como ferramenta de análise situacional, a matriz de Swot e a análise dos dados foram concatenados com o discurso de Foucault. Os resultados  preliminares evidenciam que a localidade de São Gonçalo Beira Rio apresenta possibilidades para o desenvolvimento do TBC,  frente a riqueza de saberes e dos seus modos de vida desta comunidade. Porém, em função da complexidade e das inúmeras variáveis identificadas, será necessário um planejamento coletivo, iniciando-se pela sensibilização, mobilização e qualificação dos atores envolvidos, bem como adoção de estratégias comunitárias a fim de auferir melhores resultados.
Development of Identity and Tolerance in Foreign University Students
Authors: Bobrova Tatiana , Dranishnikov Sergei
Published: November 2020

This article introduces the theoretical and methodological foundations for studying the development of identity and tolerance in foreign university students. The research featured the organization of the educational process that encourages the development of personality identity and tolerance in foreign students. The authors defined the main directions and approaches to the problem of identity and tolerance development as a set of skills. The article describes the identity and tolerance profile of foreign students that study at Russian universities. The author proved that tolerance developed under the effect of national, cultural, and religious factors, as new sociocultural environment affected the personal characteristics of foreign students. The results were both positive and negative, thus forming both tolerant and intolerant attitudes. Subsequently, the personality profile of foreign students demonstrated a combination of tolerant and intolerant traits. The levels of ethnic nihilism and egoism were low; so were the levels of ethnic isolationism and fanaticism. The level of ethnic and social tolerance appeared average. The ethnic indifference and communicative tolerance were also at an average level. However, the level of positive ethnic identity was high. The research revealed a link between tolerance and ethnic identity in foreign students. The results can help to organize the development of identity and tolerance in foreign students.
Cancellation of Service Contract
Authors: Kichigin Sergey
Published: November 2020

The matter of canceling a service contract often hinders the work of personnel offices of government and local self-government. Due to the specifics of labor relations between state and municipal employees, it remains unresolved in the domestic labor law. There is a controversy between the subsidiary application of general labor legislation norms and special laws that control the activity of certain categories of workers. It comes from the vague border between the scope of general and special norms of labor legislation in relation to state and municipal employees. Another reason is the limited legal regulation of labor relations with these categories of workers with application of the general norms of the current labor legislation. The article features approaches to resolving the issue of the possibility and legality of canceling a service contract in personnel offices of government bodies. The research was based on a critical review of the two existing opinions on the place of the cancellation procedure in relations with state and municipal employees. The author describes the legal nature of the cancellation and termination of the employment contract based on scientific literature. The article contains some recommendations on how to avoid the situation in which the representative of the employer does not have adequate legal mechanism for responding to an employee's failure to appear at work on the first day of the contract.
Removal of Cd(II) from water using zero valent iron/copper functionalized spent tea
Authors: Malook Khan , Khan Hamayun
Published: November 2020

Zero valent Fe/Cu functionalized spent tea adsorbent was prepared for the decontamination of Cd(II) contaminated water. The synthesized material was characterized for structural and morphological characteristics using various analytical techniques. The material was used as adsorbent for the adsorption of Cd(II) from aqueous solutions in batch study experiments. The effect of initial pH, adsorbent dosage, contact time and adsorbate concentration was investigated. The obtained data well followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model and pseudo-second order rate model with maximum adsorption capacity of 89.686 mg·g−1. Based on Langmuir separation factor (R), having a value of 0.706–0.194, the adsorption process was confirmed to be favorable. The adsorbent was used in the form of a column for the sorption of Cd(II) from a running solution with satisfactory results. The spent material was regenerated and reutilized with reduction of adsorption capacity by 1.48% only. Overall, the current adsorbent can be efficiently utilized for the removal of aqueous Cd(II).
Covalent Docking in Drug Discovery: Scope and Limitations
Authors: Scarpino Andrea , Ferenczy György G. , Keserű György M.
Published: November 2020

Drug discovery efforts for new covalent inhibitors have drastically increased in the last few years.
The binding mechanism of covalent compounds entails the formation of a chemical bond between their electrophilic
warhead group and the protein of interest. The use of moderately reactive warheads targeting nonconserved
nucleophilic residues can improve the affinity and selectivity profiles of covalent binders as compared
to their non-covalent analogs. Recent advances have also enabled their use as chemical probes to disclose
novel and also less tractable targets. Increasing interest in covalent drug discovery prompted the development
of new computational tools, including covalent docking methods, that are available to predict the binding mode
and affinity of covalent ligands. These tools integrate conventional non-covalent docking and scoring schemes
by modeling the newly formed covalent bond and the interactions occurring at the reaction site. In this review,
we provide a thorough analysis of state-of-the-art covalent docking programs by highlighting their main features
and current limitations. Focusing on the implemented algorithms, we show the differences in handling the
formation of the new covalent bond and their relative impact on the prediction. This analysis provides a comprehensive
overview of the current technology and suggests future improvements in computer-aided covalent
drug design. Finally, discussing successful retrospective and prospective covalent docking-based virtual screening
applications, we intend to identify best practices for the drug discovery community.
New Drugs and Interventional Strategies for the Management of Hypertension
Authors: Christophides Theodoros , Somaschini Alberto , Demarchi Andrea , Cornara Stefano , Androulaki Maria , Androulakis Emmanuel
Published: November 2020

Essential hypertension is an important cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide
with significant clinical and economic implications. The field of antihypertensive treatment already numbers
numerous agents and classes of drugs. However, patients are still developing uncontrolled hypertension. Hence
there is a continuous need for novel agents with good tolerability. Advances in this field are focusing both on
pharmacotherapy, with the developments in traditional and non-traditional targets, as well as interventional
techniques such as renal denervation and baroreflex activation therapy. It is likely that future strategies may involve
a tailored approach to the individual patient, with genetic modulation playing a key role.
Development and Validation of a LC-MS/MS Method for Quantification of Mobocertinib (TAK-788) in Plasma and its Application to Pharmacokinetic Study in Rats
Authors: Li Bo , Wang Jin , Dou Xinyao , Zhang Xinjie , Xue Xianbei , Xu Qiao , Ran Wenwen , Xiong Shan
Published: November 2020

Aim and Objective:

An analytical method for the determination of mobocertinib, an investigational tyrosine kinase inhibitor, was
developed and optimized by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in rat plasma.

Materials and Methods:

Plasma samples were pretreated by the protein precipitation method with a methanol solution of osimertinib as the
internal standard (IS). Chromatographic separation was performed using an Inertsil ODS-3 column (50 mm × 4.6 mm, I.D. 5 μm) column
with the temperature maintained at 40 °C. The mobile phase consisted of water (containing 0.1% formic acid) and methanol in a gradient
mode at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. Mass spectrometric detection was carried out in the selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode with positive
electrospray ionization, and the mass transitions of mobocertinib and osimertinib were m/z 587.01 → 71.88 and m/z 499.80 → 71.94,
respectively. The method was validated in terms of selectivity, linearity, accuracy and precision, extraction recovery and matrix effect, stability
and carryover as per the guidelines for bioanalytical method validation (FDA, 2018). The method was applied to the pharmacokinetic
study of mobocertinib in rats by oral gavage at the doses of 2, 6, and 18 mg/kg. A total of 216 plasma samples from 18 rats were analyzed.

Results:

It showed good linearity over the range of 1-1000 ng/mL (R2 = 0.9957). The intra-batch accuracy was within 94.65-102.59% and
the precision was within 5.49-10.46%. The inter-batch accuracy was within 97.08-102.25% with a precision of 7.54-10.13%. The extraction
recovery and matrix factor were acceptable for the bioanalysis of mobocertinib. Additionally, mobocertinib was found to be stable under the
detected conditions. Mobocertinib showed linear pharmacokinetic characteristics following oral administration to rats at 2.0-18.0 mg/kg.

Conclusion:

The developed and validated method was successfully employed in the pharmacokinetic study in rats following oral administration
of mobocertinib at the doses of 2, 6, and 18 mg/kg.
Development and Optimization of Inhalable Levofloxacin Nanoparticles for The Treatment of Tuberculosis
Authors: Shah Sunny , Ghetiya Rohit , Soniwala Moinuddin , Chavda Jayant
Published: November 2020

Background:

Levofloxacin has been recommended by WHO for the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis and inhalable
delivery of levofloxacin can be advantageous over conventional delivery.

Objective:

This study aimed to develop and optimize inhalable levofloxacin loaded chitosan nanoparticles (LCN). The objective
was to achieve the mean particle size of LCN less than 300nm, sustain the drug release up to 24 h and achieve
MMAD of LCN of less than 5μm.

Methods:

LCN were prepared by ionic gelation of chitosan with sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP)
and subsequent lyophilization. A Plackett Burman screening design, 32 full factorial design, and
overlay plots were sequentially employed to optimize the formulation. The mean particle size, %
entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, and minimum inhibitory concentration were all evaluated.

Results:

The Pareto chart from the Placket Burman screening design revealed that the concentrations
of chitosan and STPP was found to be significant (p < 0.05). Further analysis by 32 full factorial
design revealed that F-ratio for each model generated was found to be greater than the theoretical
value (p < 0.05), confirming the significance of each model.

Conclusion:

The optimized formulation showed a mean particle size of 171.5 nm, sustained the
drug release up to 24 h in simulated lung fluid, and revealed MMAD of 3.18 μm, which can confirm
delivery of the drug to the deep lung region. However, further in vivo studies are required to
design a suitable dosage regimen and establish the fate of nanoparticles for safe and efficacious delivery
of the drug.
Association of Wheat Allergy and Coeliac Disease through Pediatric and Adult Age: A Review of Literature
Authors: Panasiti Ilenia , Costa Stefano , Caminiti Lucia , Crisafulli Giuseppe , Pajno Giovanni B. , Pellegrino Salvatore , Testagrossa Barbara , Acri Giuseppe
Published: November 2020

In recent years, the prevalence of large spectrum of gluten-related disorders (GRDs) has
increased. Gluten is one of the most widely distributed components of food in both industrialized
and developing countries. The main structural protein complex of wheat and its proteins are classified
into albumins, salt-soluble globulins, and insoluble prolamins (gliadins and glutenins). Gluten
is also included in other cereals, including rye and barley. GRDs can be classified, based on their
pathogenic mechanism, into (i) Autoimmune disorders, (ii) Allergic disorders, (iii) No autoimmune,
not allergic disorders. Coeliac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder that occurs in genetically
predisposed individuals who develop an immune reaction to gluten. It affects about 1% of
people in most populations. The disease primarily interests the small intestine, but it is characterized
by a wide range of clinical presentations, with both intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms.
Wheat allergy (WA) is an adverse immunologic reaction to wheat proteins. In the large field of
WA a further classification can be made, distinguishing IgE-dependent WA, triggered by ingestion,
inhalation or cutaneous and/or mucosal contact of wheat, and IgE-non-dependent WA. Its prevalence
varies depending on the age and region, from 0.4% to 4%. Urticaria and/or angioedema,
and anaphylaxis with or without exercise as a trigger, appear typically during childhood, asthma
and/or rhinitis (Baker’s asthma) are more common during adulthood. Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity
(NCGS) is a condition in which gluten ingestion leads to one or more of a variety of immunological,
morphological or symptomatic (both gastrointestinal or extra gastrointestinal) manifestations
in people in whom CD has been excluded. It is supposed it’s due to an activated innate immune response.
Cardiovascular Changes in Menopause
Authors: Nair Anjana R. , Pillai Aiswarya J. , Nair Nandini
Published: November 2020

:

Menopause is associated with changes consistent with cardiovascular aging. The effects
of cardiac disease are multifaceted, affecting endothelial function, coronary artery physiology and
metabolic dysfunction leading to structural changes in the coronary anatomy. A systematic review
of literature from 1986 to 2019 was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. The search was
directed to retrieve papers that addressed the changes in cardiovascular physiology in menopause
and the current therapies available to treat cardiovascular manifestations of menopause. The
metabolic and clinical factors secondary to menopause, such as dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, fat
redistribution and systemic hypertension, contribute to the accelerated risk for cardiovascular aging
and disease. Atherosclerosis appears to be the end result of the interaction between cardiovascular
risk factors and their accentuation during the perimenopausal period. Additionally, complex interactions
between oxidative stress and levels of L-arginine and ADMA may also influence endothelial
dysfunction in menopause. The increased cardiovascular risk in menopause stems from the exaggerated
effects of changing physiology on the cardiovascular system affecting peripheral, cardiac and
cerebrovascular beds. The differential effects of menopause on cardiovascular disease at the subclinical,
biochemical and molecular levels form the highlights of this review.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 4-Aminoantipyrine Analogues
Authors: Ren Houwei , Dhanaraj Premnath , Enoch Israel V.M.V. , Paulraj Mosae Selvakumar , M. Indiraleka
Published: November 2020

Objectives:

The aim of the present study is to carry out a simple synthesis of aminoantipyrine analogues and exploration of their antibacterial, cytotoxic, and anticonvulsant potential.

Methods:

The compounds were characterized employing multi-spectroscopic methods. The in vitro pharmacological response of a series of bacteria were screened employing serial dilution method. The derivatives were screened against maximal electro-shock for their anticonvulsant activity. Molecular docking was carried out to optimize the interaction of the
compounds with HPV16-E7 receptors. Further, the in vitro cytotoxicity was tested against human cervical cancer (SiHa) cell
lines.

Results:

The compounds show protection against maximal electroshock, esp. 3-nirto- and 4-
methyl-3-nitrobenzamido derivatives. In addition, they reveal appreciable DNA cleavage activities
and interactions with HPV16-E7 protein receptors, esp. 3,5-dinitro- and 4-methyl-3-nitrobenzamido
derivatives. Furthermore, they show potent activity against cervical cancer cells (LD50 value up to
1200 in the case of 4-methyl-3-nitrobenzamido derivative and an inhibition of a maximum of
~97% of cells).

Conclusions:

The simply synthesized aminoantipyrine derivatives show a variety of biological activities like antibacterial
and anticancer effects. In addition, this is the first study demonstrating that 4-aminoantipyrine derivatives shows an anticonvulsant activity.
Starch as a Sustainable Fuel for Solution Combustion Synthesis: Nanomaterials for Energy and Environmental Applications
Authors: dos Santos Garrido Francisco Manoel , Argolo Maria Isabel Spitz , Medeiros Marta Eloísa , Siqueira José Márcio
Published: November 2020

Background:

Currently, solution combustion synthesis (SCS) is considered a reproducible, flexible, and low-cost synthesis method for the preparation of nanomaterials. A new trend in the SCS method is the use of less polluting fuels, such as starch. The use of starch as fuel in SCS is very interesting for green chemistry, as it is renewable and has several advantages, including its abundance, low-cost, and non-toxicity.

Objective:

This paper provides a comprehensive review of the SCS method using starch as fuel. The main advantages of using starch as fuel will be illustrated with a wide variety of examples, highlighting its impact on the preparation of nanomaterials for energy and environmental applications.

Conclusion:

In a combustion reaction using starch as fuel, several positive effects are expected, such as non-violent propagation, combustion with the production of non-toxic gases (mainly CO2and H2O), and development of pores during the release of gases. For example, several macroporous metal oxide foams were prepared using the SCS method, through an appropriate combination of urea and starch fuels. With this approach, it is possible to control the structure, lattice defects, crystallite size, specific surface area, porosity, and other characteristics of the synthetized nanomaterial. For example, by combining starch with other fuels, it is possible to control the concentration of lattice defects in metal oxides and modify the optical properties of these materials. These properties are of fundamental importance for the performance of these materials and their subsequent application in electrodes, electrocatalysts, and photocatalysts in the areas of energy and environment.
Theoretical Study of the Process of Passage of Glycoside Amides through the Cell Membrane of Cancer Cell
Authors: Tsanov Vasil , Tsanov Hristo
Published: November 2020

Background:

This article concentrates on the processes occurring in the medium around the cancer
cell and the transfer of glycoside amides through their cell membrane. They are obtained by modification of
natural glycoside-nitriles (cyano-glycosides). Hydrolysis of starting materials in the blood medium and
associated volume around physiologically active healthy and cancer cells, based on quantum-chemical semiempirical
methods, are considered.

Objective:

Based on the fact that the cancer cell feeds primarily on carbohydrates, it is likely that organisms have
adapted to take food containing nitrile glycosides and/or modified forms to counteract "external" bioactive
activity. For their part, cancers have evolved to create conditions around their cells that eliminate their active
apoptotic forms. This is far more appropriate for them than changing their entire enzyme regulation to counteract
it. In this way, it protects itself and the gene sets and develops accordingly.

Methods:

Pedestal is derived that closely defines the processes of hydrolysis in the blood, the transfer of a
specific molecular hydrolytic form to the cancer cell membrane and with the help of time-dependent densityfunctional
quantum-chemical methods, its passage and the processes of re-hydrolysis within the cell itself, to
bioactive forms causing chemical apoptosis of the cell-independent of its non-genetic set, which seeks to
counteract the process.

Results:

Used in oncology, it could turn a cancer from a lethal to a chronic disease (such as diabetes). The
causative agent and conditions for the development of the disease are not eliminated, but the amount of cancer
cells could be kept low for a long time (even a lifetime).

Conclusion:

The amide derivatives of nitrile glycosides exhibit anticancer activity; the cancer cell probably
seeks to displace hydrolysis of these derivatives in a direction that would not pass through its cell membrane and
the amide-carboxyl derivatives of nitrile glycosides could deliver extremely toxic compounds within the cancer
cell itself and thus block and/or permanently damage its normal physiology.
Recent Patents on Blueberry Picking
Authors: Bao Yudong , Li Kai , Zhao Yanling , Guo Yanling , Qi Dongbo
Published: November 2020

Background:

With a growing demand for blueberries, the planting area of blueberries is also
increasing. However, the main method of picking blueberries is the traditional manual picking, so
the operation of picking is the most time-consuming and laborious in the chain of production.

Objective:

By analyzing and discussing the patents of equipment of blueberry picking, some valuable conclusions have been drawn to predict the future research and development of equipment of blueberry picking.

Methods:

This paper sketches out various current representative patents relevant to equipment of blueberry picking.

Results:

Through summarizing a large number of patents about equipment of blueberry picking, the
characters of those patents are analyzed and compared, and further development tendency of equipment
of blueberry picking is discussed.

Conclusion:

The research on the multifunction, intelligence, versatility of blueberry picking machine
is helpful in solving the problems of low efficiency, low quality and poor versatility.