bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proton-pump inhibitors do not influence clinical outcomes in patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia
Authors: Caffrey Aisling R. , Timbrook Tristan T. , Ali Syed Raza , Nizet Victor , Sakoulas George
Published: March 2019

Background:

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used in clinical practice for gastric acid suppression. However, these agents have also been associated with certain negative clinical outcomes. We evaluated the real-world effects of incident PPI use on clinical outcomes in patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study included patients admitted to Veterans Affairs hospitals with positive S. aureus blood cultures collected between 2002 and 2013 that received appropriate antibiotics within 48 hours of culture collection. Clinical outcomes among three PPI exposure groups, each compared to nonusers, were assessed with propensity-score-matched Cox proportional-hazard regression models: pretreated PPI users initiating therapy in the 30 days prior to culture and either (a) continuing PPI therapy after culture, or (b) not continuing after culture, and (c) de novo users initiating at culture.

Results:

Clinical outcomes, including inpatient mortality, intensive care discharge, 30-day mortality, 30-day readmission, and 30-day Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) were similar among PPI users and nonusers. Though length of stay was longer in pretreated, continuing PPI users [time-to-discharge hazard ratio (HR) 0.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65–0.93], 14-day mortality was significantly lower than in nonusers (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.50–0.87).

Conclusions:

In our large national cohort study, PPIs were not associated with an increased risk of negative clinical outcomes, including mortality and CDI, in patients with S. aureus bacteremia.
Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty versus laparoscopic pyeloplasty for pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction in the paediatric population: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Taktak Samih , Llewellyn Oliver , Aboelsoud Mohamed , Hajibandeh Shahab , Hajibandeh Shahin
Published: March 2019

Background:

Owing to the improved vision and instrument manipulation in robot-assisted procedures, we sought to evaluate the comparative outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) and laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) in a paediatric patients with pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO).

Methods:

We conducted a systemic literature search of online sources, including PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and respective bibliographic reference lists. Success rate, operative time, hospital length of stay, postoperative complication rate and re-intervention rate were our primary outcomes. Combined overall effect sizes were calculated using fixed-effect or random-effects models.

Results:

We identified 14 observational studies reporting a total of 2254 paediatric patients with PUJO, who underwent LP ( n = 1021) or RALP ( n = 1233). Our analysis demonstrated that RALP was associated with a significantly higher success rate [odds ratio (OR) 2.51; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–5.83, p = 0.03] and shorter length of hospital stay [mean difference (MD) −1.49; 95% CI −2.22 to −077; p < 0.0001] compared with LP. Moreover, nonsignificant reductions in postoperative complications (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.36–1.02; p = 0.06) and re-intervention (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.15–1.21; p = 0.11) were found in favour of RALP. There was no difference in procedure time between the two approaches (MD −0.15; 95% CI −30.22 to 29.93, p = 0.99).

Conclusions:

Our meta-analysis of observational studies demonstrated that RALP is safe and may have higher success rate compared with the more traditional laparoscopic approach in a paediatric population. Moreover, it may be associated with lower postoperative complications and re-intervention rates. Evidence from randomized trials is required.
Diet and brood size in rural and urban Northern Goshawks Accipiter gentilis in southern Finland
Authors: Solonen Tapio , Lokki Heikki , Sulkava Seppo
Published: March 2019

The brood size in the Finnish Northern Goshawks seems to be associated with the breeding habitat and the availability of suitable prey. In this study, we examined these relationships in three study areas of different landscape structure in southern Finland, including a recently colonized urban area. The most abundant prey categories found in the food remains of the goshawk included corvids, turdids, columbids, gallinaceous birds, and squirrels. Corvids dominated in the diet samples of all the study areas. The number of turdids and columbids in the samples was significantly higher in both the rural and the urban habitats than in the wilderness area. The number of gallinaceous birds was significantly higher in the wilderness area than in other habitats. Gallinaceous birds, particularly tetraonids, the traditional staple food of the Northern Goshawk in Finland, seemed to be largely compensated by corvids in the wilderness area and by corvids and columbids in the rural and urban areas. The amount of corvids in prey showed a positive relationship with brood size, suggesting some particular importance of this prey in the goshawk diet. In all, diet seemed to explain partly between-landscape variations in the brood size of the goshawk. The brood size was significantly higher in the urban landscape than elsewhere.
Do all patients with advanced N-stage nasopharyngeal carcinoma benefit from the addition of induction chemotherapy to concurrent chemoradiotherapy?
Authors: Yao Ji-Jin , Jin Ya-Nan , Liu Zhi-Gang , Liu Qiao-Dan , Pei Xiao-Feng , Zhou Huai-Li , Zhang Wang-Jian , Zhang Fan , Lin Li , Lawrence Wayne R. , Wang Si-Yang , Ma Jun , Zhou Guan-Qun , Sun Ying
Published: March 2019

Background:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits from the addition of induction chemotherapy (IC) to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in N2-3 nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods:

A total of 3089 patients with nonmetastatic NPC, staged as N2-3 were retrospectively reviewed. IC contained cisplatin (80 mg/m2) with 5-fluorouracil (800 mg/m2/day over 120 h), or cisplatin (80 mg/m2) with docetaxel (80 mg/m2), or cisplatin (60 mg/m2) with 5-fluorouracil (600 mg/m2 over 120 h), and docetaxel (60 mg/m2) administered at 3-week intervals for two or three cycles. Concurrent chemotherapy consisted of cisplatin (80 or 100 mg/m2) given in weeks 1, 4, and 7 of radiotherapy, or cisplatin (40 mg/m2) given weekly during radiotherapy. Overall, three well-matched risk groups (low, intermediate, and high risk) were created using propensity score matching, and IC plus CCRT was compared with CCRT in each risk group. Our primary endpoint was distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS).

Results:

A nomogram for DMFS was established with good prognostic accuracy (C-index, 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.64–0.73). The survival curves for low, intermediate, and high-risk groups stratified by the nomogram were significantly different between all three risk groups, with corresponding 5-year DMFS rates of 90.7%, 79.4%, and 64.9%, respectively ( p < 0.001). IC plus CCRT was significantly associated with superior DMFS as compared with CCRT alone (69.5% versus 56.7%, p = 0.004) in the high-risk group. However, no significant difference between IC plus CCRT and CCRT was observed ( p = 0.831 and 0.608, respectively) in the intermediate and low-risk groups.

Conclusions:

Our findings can help accurately guide the treatment of individual patients with advanced N-stage NPC.
Synergism between Terbinafine and a Neo-clerodane Dimer or a Monomer Isolated from Baccharis flabellata against Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Rodriguez María Victoria , Butassi Estefanía , Funes Matías , Zacchino Susana A.
Published: March 2019

The new neo-clerodane dimer (DACD) likely formed by a [4+2] photo-cycloaddition between two molecules of ent-15,16-epoxy-19-hydroxy-1,3,13(16),14-clerodatetraen-18-oic acid (DAC), both isolated from Baccharis flabellata Hook et Arn. var. flabellata (Asteraceae), were tested in combination with terbinafine (Terb) against Trichophyton rubrum. The interactions were assessed with different methodologies such as 3D CombiTool software, Loewe Combination Index (CI) and isobolograms. Results showed that the monomer DAC as well as its dimer DACD act synergistically with Terb against T. rubrum. DAC/Terb and DACD/Terb showed eight and twelve synergistic mixtures respectively in the CombiTool graphics thus suggesting that DACD/Terb was more synergistic with Terb than DAC. These results were corroborated by the CI values and the isobolograms of the detected combinations. DACD/Terb showed much lower CIs (0.34-0.47) than DAC/Terb (0.57-1.15) at the different inhibition percentages tested. Concomitantly, DACD/Terb isobolograms were more concave than for DAC/Terb at the different inhibition percentages. This is the first report showing antifungal synergistic interactions of neo-clerodanes dimers and add new evidences that neo-clerodanes monomers interact synergistically with Terb against T. rubrum.
Triterpenoidal and Phenolic Compounds Isolated from the Aerial Parts of Helicteres hirsuta and their Cytotoxicity on Several Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Nguyen Triet Thanh , Kretschmer Nadine , Pferschy-Wenzig Eva-Maria , Kunert Olaf , Bauer Rudolf
Published: March 2019

Helicteres L. is one of the genera of the Sterculiaceae family with several remarkable activities. Previous studies revealed that terpenoids, flavonoids, and lignans are the dominant constituents of Helicteres species. However, information about this genus is scarce and unsystematic. Most of the phytochemical and pharmacological investigations have been mainly reported on Helicteres angustifolia and Helicteres isora, which are commonly used in China and Indonesia, respectively. In the present study, two terpenoids: 3β- O-acetylbetulinic acid (1) and simiarenol (2) together with three phenolic compounds: 4,4'-sulfinylbis(2-( tert-butyl)-5-methylphenol) (3), 7- O-methylisoscutellarein (4), 7,4'-di- O-methylisoscutellarein (5), and a mixture of stigmasterol and β-sitosterol were isolated and structurally elucidated from the aerial parts of Helicteres hirsuta Lour. Compounds 1-5 were tested for cytotoxicity on four human cancer cell lines: leukemia CCRF-CEM, breast MDA-MB-231, colon HCT116 and glioblastoma U251 cancer cells. Among them, compounds 1 and 3 showed moderate activity on CCRF-CEM and HCT116 cancer cells with IC50 values ranging from 14.6 to 31.5 μM (P < 0.05). This is the first time these compounds have been reported from this plant. To the best of our knowledge, compound 3 is novel in nature although it has been chemically synthesized before, and compounds 1, 2, and 4 are new to this plant family (Sterculiaceae).
A Selective Ion HPLC-APCI-MS Method for the Quantification of Pentacyclic Triterpenes in an Anxiolytic Botanical Dietary Supplement for the Animal Health Market
Authors: Liu Rui , Carballo-Arce Ana-Francis , Singh Ranpreet , Saleem Ammar , Rocha Marco , Mullally Martha , Otarola-Rojas Marco , Alvarrez Luis Poveda , Sanchez-Vindas Pablo , Garcia Mario , Baker John , Merali Zul , Guerrero-Analco Jose-Antonio , Durst Tony , Harris Cory , Arnason John
Published: March 2019

A new anti-anxiety dietary supplement was developed for the animal health market, by combining 2 triterpene containing botanicals, Souroubea sympetala (Marcgraviaceae) with Platanus occidentalis (Platanaceae) A validated method for a quality control of the botanical blend was achieved using HPLC-APCI-MS. The method resulted in the detection and quantitative determination of betulinic acid (1), and ursolic acid (2) in P. occidentalis and 1, 2, lupeol (3), β-amyrin (4) and α-amyrin (5) in S. sympetala and the finished product ZentrolTM. Detections were at low ng on column for 1 and 2 and in low μg range for 3, 4 and 5 using calibration curves within 10-100 ng (R2 > 0.993). Recovery of spiked samples for all the recoveries observed were > 94%. Inter-day and intra-day variations were 0.8-3.5% and 5-10.4%, respectively. These results indicate the suitability of the developed analytical method to detect and quantify triterpenes of raw materials used in the manufacture of natural health products.
Identification of Major α-Glucosidase Inhibitors from Stem Bark of Panamanian Mangrove Plant Pelliciera rhizophorae
Authors: Cherigo Lilia , Martínez-Luis Sergio
Published: March 2019

In our continuous search for α-glucosidase inhibitors, three active pentacyclic triterpenes were isolated from stem bark samples of the Panamanian mangrove Pelliciera rhizophorae Triana & Planchon. These compounds were identified by both spectroscopic and spectrometric analysis. Of the isolated compounds, only betulinic acid has been previously isolated from P. rhizophorae leaves while both betulin (IC50 2.09 μM) and lupeol (IC50 0.58 μM) were isolated from this plant for the first time. All three pentacyclic triterpenes inhibited the α-glucosidase enzyme in a concentration-dependent manner, and their inhibitory activity was higher than that of the antidiabetic drug acarbose (IC50 241.6 μM). Kinetic analysis established that betulin and lupeol acted as competitive inhibitors. Finally, docking analysis suggested that all three triterpenes bind at the same site as acarbose does in the human intestinal α-glucosidase (PDB: 3TOP). This work contributes further evidence similar to previous studies that point out that the aerial parts of P. rhizophorae might be potential agents in controlling hyperglycemia in diabetic persons.
Triterpenoid Saponins from the Roots of Glycyrrhiza Glabra
Authors: Shou Qingyao , Jiao Ping , Hong Mei , Jia Qi , Prakash Indra , Hong Sangphyo , Wang Bin , Bechman Allison , Ma Gil
Published: March 2019

Seven new oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins (glabasaponin A-G) were isolated from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra together with a known compound macedonoside A. The structures of compounds 1-7 were determined on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR as well as the MS data analyses. The sugar moieties of compound 5 were confirmed by gas chromatography after hydrolysis.
Antiparasitic Compounds from the Panamanian Marine Bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Martínez-Luis Sergio , Cherigo Lilia , Spadafora Carmenza , Gutiérrez Marcelino
Published: March 2019

Fractionation of the ethyl acetate extract of the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa led to the isolation of five compounds, cyclo –(L-Phe-L-Pro) (1), 3-heptyl-3-hydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-2.4-dione (2), 2-heptyl-4-hydroxyquinoline (3), 2-nonyl-4-hydroxyquinoline (4), and 1-phenazinecarboxylic acid (5). The structures of compounds 1-5 were established by spectroscopic analyses. Compounds 2 4 produced inhibition on the growth of Plasmodium falciparum, with IC50 values of 3.47, 2.57 and 2.79 μg/mL, respectively. Compounds 3-4 had activity against Trypanosoma cruzi, with IC50 values of 3.66 and 3.99 μg/mL. Finally, all compounds were found inactive when tested against Leishmania donovani at 10 μg/mL.
In vitro Antimalarial Evaluations and Cytotoxicity Investigations of Carica papaya Leaves and Carpaine
Authors: Teng Woon-Chien , Chan Wilson , Suwanarusk Rossarin , Ong Alice , Ho Han-Kiat , Russell Bruce , Rénia Laurent , Koh Hwee-Ling
Published: March 2019

The objective of this study is to evaluate the antimalarial property of Carica papaya L. leaf extracts and the cytotoxicity of active samples. C. papaya leaves were extracted and screened against Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 and Dd2 strains. Bioassay-guided fractionation was carried out. The dichloromethane extract of C. papaya leaves showed significant antiplasmodial activity against P. falciparum 3D7 and Dd2. Successful bioassay-guided fractionation afforded a fraction three to seven times more active than the dichloromethane extract. Carpaine was isolated from the most active alkaloidal extract and identified in the active fraction and dichloromethane leaf extract. The cytotoxicity of active samples was evaluated against NL20 cells. A haemolysis assay was performed on carpaine. Carpaine exhibited good activity against both strains of P. falciparum with IC50 of 2.01 ± 0.18 μg/mL (4.21 μM) and 2.19 ± 0.60 μg/mL (4.57 μM) against 3D7 and Dd2 strains respectively. It exhibited high selectivity for the parasite and was non-toxic to healthy uninfected human red blood cells. This is the first study investigating the haemolysis potential of carpaine. The results provide a scientific basis for the traditional use of C. papaya leaves for malaria treatment. More work is required to evaluate the efficacy and safety of carpaine for further development into potential new antimalarial drugs.
Chemical Composition and Antimycoplasmic Activity of Eugenia mattosii Leaves, Stems and Isolated Compounds
Authors: Vechi Giovana , Tenfen Adrielli , Boeder Ariela Maína , Hernandez-Gómez Lorena , de Córdova Caio Maurício Mendes , Monache Franco Delle , Filho Valdir Cechinel
Published: March 2019

The Eugenia genus is rich in bioactive substances with biological potential. Mollicutes are bacteria without cell walls, which are responsible for various human and animal diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and antimollicute activity of Eugenia mattosii. Leaves and stems were extracted with methanol, partitioned into fractions of different polarities, and submitted to column chromatography in order to isolate major compounds. Identification and quantification of isolated substances in extracts and fractions were performed by UPLC-PDA/ESI+ - QTOF. Methanolic extracts, ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions and isolated substances were screened for antimycoplasmic activity against five Mycoplasma strains. The methanolic extracts of leaves and stems showed moderate antimycoplasmic activity (MICs = 250-500 μg.mL-1). The fractions exhibited better effect, with MICs = 125-1000 μg.mL-1, especially the ethyl acetate fraction of the leaves, which presented MICs of 125-250 μg.mL-1 for all strains tested. Phytochemical analyses evidenced the presence of some phenolic compounds, including pinostrobin, cryptostrobin and catechin, the first showing promising antimycoplasmic activity. Quantification of the compounds demonstrated higher concentrations of pinostrobin and cryptostrobin in the chloroform fraction. In conclusion, E. mattosii presented antimycoplasmic activity related, at least in part, to the presence of pinostrobin.
Antiparasitic Metabolites from Hyptis brevipes, a Tacana Medicinal Plant
Authors: Limachi Ivan , Condo Claudia , Palma Camila , Nina Nelida , Salamanca Efrain , Ticona Juan C. , Udaeta Enrique , Flores Ninoska , Serato Alcides , Marupa Natalio , Chao Benigno , Ibaguari Gladys , Nay Constantino , Manner Soffie , Sterner Olov , Giménez Alberto
Published: March 2019

A bioassay screening against protozoa parasites of several Tacana medicinal plants gave Hyptis brevipes (Id'ene eidhue), traditionally used as decoction for intestinal parasites, as the most active extract. In this work we did a bioguided isolation of active constituents found in leaves. Structure elucidation was carried out by NMR spectroscopy and MS spectrometry analyses. Active constituents showed differentiated activity towards Giardia lamblia, Trypanosoma cruzi, several Leishmania strains, Plasmodium falciparum and cytotoxicity against HeLa cells. Brevipolide H (1) was the less cytotoxic and best antiparasitic, while the catechol derivative (2) the most active and cytotoxic.
Fungus-Growing Ant's Microbial Interaction of Streptomyces sp. and Escovopsis sp. through Molecular Networking and MALDI Imaging
Authors: A. Boya P. Cristopher , Christian Martin H. , Fernández-Marín Hermógenes , Gutiérrez Marcelino
Published: March 2019

Microbes associated with fungus-growing ants represent a poorly explored source of natural products. In this study, we used mass spectrometry-based dereplication techniques for identifying a set of secondary metabolites produced during the microbial interaction between Streptomyces sp. (CB0028) and Escovopsis sp. (CBAcro424). Both microorganisms were isolated from the nest of the fungus-growing ant Acromyrmex echinatior. Through MALDI imaging and MS/MS molecular networking, we annotated the siderophores: desferrioxamine B (1), ferrioxamine B (2), ferrioxamine E (3) and the N-formylated peptide SCO-2138/SLI-2138 (4). MALDI imaging experiments suggest that siderophores occurred during the microbial interactions in the fungus-growing ants – microbes symbioses. This is the first report on the production of compounds 1-4 by bacteria associated with fungus-growing ants.
Bioactivity Profiling of Plant Biodiversity of Panama by High Throughput Screening
Authors: Roy Anuradha , McDonald Peter , Timmermann Barbara N. , Gupta Mahabir , Chaguturu Rathnam
Published: March 2019

We report relative bioactivities of extracts prepared from a large collection of plants from three national parks in Panama. Over 181 plants were collected, taxonomically identified and their detannified dichloromethane (DCM)-methanolic extracts were used for profiling selected bioactivities. Assays were performed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the extracts for Antioxidant Response Element (ARE) induction, total non-enzymatic antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The high throughput analysis of 280 extracts resulted in identification of 57.5% of the extracts that could induce ARE at one or more concentrations tested, 93.5% that harbored total antioxidant capacity, and 2.1% of the extracts that showed lung cancer cell line-specific cytotoxicity. Data from our profiling experiments indicate that a large number of extracts could be a source for further isolation and chemical identification of compounds that could serve as leads for discovery of antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory agents to prevent or treat complex diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Effects of Essential Oils from Two Species of Piperaceae on Parasitized and Unparasitized Eggs of Oebalus insularis (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) by Telenomus podisi (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae)
Authors: Zachrisson Bruno , Santana Ana , Gupta Mahabir
Published: March 2019

Biological control of Oebalus insularis eggs is considered an important strategy in the control of this rice “stink bug”. Effects of essential oils (EOs) from Piper jacquemontianum Kunth and Piper marginatum Jacq. (Piperaceae) on the viability of parasitized and unparasitized eggs by Telenomus podisi, in concentrations of 0.5 to 2.0%, were evaluated. EOs from both species at a concentration of 2% affected the development of embryons of O. insularis as well as of T. podisi after 24 and 48h of their administration. In both species, P. jacquemontanium and P. marginatum LC50, 24 h before the application of treatments on eggs of O. insularis was 3.835 y 3.037, respectively. LC50 after 48 h of treatment with EOs showed contrasting results which varied from 2.207 and 1.811. for P. jacquemontianum and P. marginatum, respectively. LC50 calculated before 24 h in parasitized eggs of O. insularis by T. podisi, was 3.037 and 2.171 for P. jacquemontianum y P. marginatum, respectively, while after 48h of treatment it was 1.166 y 1.935, respectively. Absorption of the EO components by the unparasitized and parasitized eggs of O. insularis by T. podisi was higher after 48 h of exposition. This is due to the longer exposure time, which allows higher penetration of the EOs into the interior of insect eggs by microscopic pores and micropyle.
Essential Oils as Chemical Reagents in Heterocyclic Synthesis
Authors: Kouznetsov Vladimir V.
Published: March 2019

Urgent guidelines of modern chemistry have directed researchers' attention to the use of biomass not only as a source of food, feed, medicinal drugs, fragrances and energy, but also as fine chemicals. Certain easily isolable biomass components are now used as chemical reagents in the synthesis of novel products with a higher added value, replacing existing chemicals based on petroleum sources. Among these biomass components, the essential oils stand out as a valuable source of diverse terpenoid and phenylpropanoid compounds with many bio-medical applications. The aim of this work is to review existing materials in the utilization of the synthetic potential of essential oils extracted from some tropical plants towards their conversion in new functionalized heterocyclic compounds, which could be useful as a pharmacological model in drug research and development.
New Abietane-type Diterpenoids from the Bark of Cryptomeria japonica
Authors: Chang Chi-I , Cheng Jih-Jung , Hsu Chin , Chen Cheng-Chi , Cheng Wei-Yi , Wang Sheng-Yang , Lee Ching-Kuo , Cheng Ming-Jen , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: March 2019

Two new abietane-type diterpenoids, 15-hydroxy-12- O-methylsugiol (1) and 2a-hydroxy-12- O-methylsugiol (2) were isolated from the methanol extract of the bark of Cryptomeria japonica. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and comparison of NMR data with those of known analogues. Compounds 2 showed 13.5% inhibition towards xanthine oxidase enzyme at the concentration of 75 μM
Chemical Constituents from Stems of Pileostegia viburnoides
Authors: Li Xiao-Jun , Kim Kwan-Woo , Zou Qin-Peng , Liu Zu-Zhen , Oh Hyun-Cheol , Kim Youn-Chul , Liu Xiang-Qian
Published: March 2019

Phytochemical investigation on the stems of Pileostegia viburnoides Hook.f.et Thoms led to the isolation of twelve compounds, including two steroids (1 and 10), two fatty compounds (2 and 12), seven triterpenoids (3–9), and one coumarin glycoside (11). 24-methylene-5α-dammara-20(21)-en-3β-yl acetate (5), a rare dammarane-tetracyclic triterpene had been first reported just according to the typical 1H-NMR signals analysis, melting point and optical rotation in 1975. However, the complete and reliable NMR and mass data were still unknown. This is the first time to identify the planar and spatial structures of compound 5 by the analysis of 1D-, 2D-NMR, mass data and other physicochemical properties, as well as by comparison of the spectral data with the literature. Further more, the anti-inflammatory and anti-neuroinflammatory activities of dammarane-type triterpenes 4 and 5 were evaluated.
A New Tetrahydrofuran Lignan from Premna serratifolia Wood
Authors: Woo So-Yeun , Wong Chin Piow , Win Nwet Nwet , Hoshino Shotaro , Prema  , Ngwe Hla , Abe Ikuro , Morita Hiroyuki
Published: March 2019

Phytochemical investigation of the CHCl3 extract of Premna serratifolia (syn: P. integrifolia) wood collected in Myanmar led to the isolation of a new tetrahydrofuran type lignan, 7,9-dihydroxydolichanthin B (1), together with two known triterpenoids, oleanonic acid (2) and (2a, 3α)-dihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (3). The structure of the new compound was determined using various spectroscopic techniques, mainly 1D- and 2D-NMR, HRESIMS, IR, and optical rotation, and by comparisons with the reported literatures. Compounds 1-3 had anti-melanin deposition activities against IBMX and α-MSH induced B16-F10 mouse melanoma cell line with IC50 values of 18.4, 17.7 and 11.2 μM, respectively. However, 2 exhibited cytotoxicity at concentrations above 50 μM.
Arugosins O-Q, New Fungal Metabolites from the Fungus Xylariaceae sp. Isolated from Leaves of Lansium domesticum (Meliaceae)
Authors: Rudiyansyah  , Alimuddin Andi Hairil , Masriani  , Muharini Rini , Liu Zhen , Lin Wenhan , Hartmann Rudolf , Proksch Peter
Published: March 2019

A fungal endophyte which was identified as a hitherto undescribed member of the family Xylariaceae by sequencing of the ITS region was isolated from fresh and healthy leaves of Lansium domesticum collected on tropical peatland of West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Chromatographic separation of the ethyl acetate extract of the fungus resulted in the isolation of three new arugosin type metabolites, including arugosins O (1), P (2), and Q (3). The structures were determined by analysis of 1D and 2D NMR spectra and HRMS data, and by comparison with data from the literature. Biological activities of those compounds are also reported.
A Concise and Stereoselective Total Synthesis of Paecilomycin E
Authors: Reddy A. Srinivas , Bhavani Gundamalla , Jonnala Sandhya , Bantu Rajashaker , Reddy B. V. Subba
Published: March 2019

A concise approach for the first total synthesis of paecilomycin E is described involving Alder-Rickert reaction, Mitsunobu esterification and ring closing metathesis as the key steps. This approach has successfully demonstrated the Alder-Rickert protocol for the construction of resorcylic acid unit.
Anti-protozoal Activity of Conifer Green Needle Complex against Trichomonas vaginalis
Authors: Kulyashova Lidia B. , Roschina Natalia , Nikitina Tamara V. , Soultanov Vagif S.
Published: March 2019

Treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis typically involves using nitroimidazoles (such as metronidazole and tinidazole). Some T. vaginalis strains have become resistant to these drugs, so the development of new drugs is necessary. Clinical samples were taken from 80 males and 70 females (aged 17–45). The sensitivity of T. vaginalis in these samples to CGNC (100, 200, 300 and 500 mg/mL) and metronidazole (10, 15, 25 and 50 μg/mL) was evaluated. All 10 isolates were sensitive to at least one concentration of CGNC. Three strains were sensitive (all cells were killed) to 100 mg/mL CGNC, while there was a decrease in the number of Trichomonas present in the other samples when compared with the control. Six strains were sensitive to 200 mg/mL CGNC, while those strains that grew in the presence of CGNC showed a reduction in numbers when compared with the control. Nine strains were sensitive to 300 mg/mL CGNC. The strain not sensitive to 300 mg/mL CGNC showed a decrease in the number of Trichomonas present (<102 cells/mL) when compared to the control (104 cells/mL). All strains were sensitive to 500 mg/mL CGNC. Three strains (one motile and two non-motile) were sensitive to all concentrations of CGNC and one of the non-motile strains was resistant (MIC 50 μg/mL) to metronidazole. The other two strains were moderately resistant (MIC 15 and 25 μg/mL) to metronidazole. Of the 10 Trichomonas strains, four were resistant to metronidazole (MIC 50 μg/mL) and sensitive to at least one concentration of CGNC. CGNC may be used as a treatment for T. vaginalis infections and should be considered for clinical strains resistant to metronidazole.
Commercial Essential Oil Combinations against Topical Fungal Pathogens
Authors: Orchard Ané , van Vuuren Sandy F. , Viljoen Alvaro M.
Published: March 2019

Essential oils are amongst the most popular natural products recommended for the treatment of topical fungal infections. This study investigated the antifungal activity of 128 essential oil combinations against fungal pathogen reference strains using the broth microdilution technique to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The essential oils were investigated at a volume of 100 μL and the combinations comprised of 50:50 μL. Each combination was tested in triplicate and the mean recorded. The fractional inhibitory concentration index was calculated for combinations, and synergistic interactions were investigated further at different ratios and plotted on isobolograms. The fungal pathogens were found to be highly susceptible to the essential oil combinations, with Trichophyton mentagrophytes being inhibited by all but one combination. The essential oil combinations containing Cinnamomum verum or Santalum austrocaledonicum were found to display the strongest inhibition with MIC values as low as 0.06 mg/mL. Potential combinations against fungal pathogens have been presented that could be studied in clinical settings with the goal of decreasing the need for systemic or prolonged antifungal treatments that may result in treatment failure or resistance.
Early Versus Late Computed Tomography and Nasal Endoscopy in the Diagnosis of Nasopharyngeal and Paranasal Sinus Malignancy
Authors: Marino Michael J. , Hsieh Mei-Chin , Wu Eric L. , Riley Charles A. , Wu Xiao-Cheng , McCoul Edward D.
Published: March 2019

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and allergic rhinitis (AR) may be associated with an increased risk of subsequent diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) or paranasal sinus cancer (PSC) in elderly Americans. The clinical utility of this association remains uncertain.

Objective

To compare early computed tomography (CT) or nasal endoscopy (NE) with late diagnostic studies for the diagnosis of NPC or PSC in elderly Americans with CRS or AR.

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare database was queried from 2003 to 2011 and included 150 088 Medicare beneficiaries. Patients with a diagnosis of CRS or AR were examined for either NE or CT performed within 6 months of the exposure diagnosis. The risk of a cancer diagnosis was determined between the early and the late diagnostic groups.

Results

The relative risk of early cancer diagnosis with NE was 1.98 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.60–2.43). The number needed to detect (NND) a case of cancer with NE was 503 (95% CI, 387–718). The relative risk of an early cancer diagnosis using CT was 3.40 (95% CI, 2.85–4.06) and NND was 221 (95% CI, 194–255). The stage of NPC or PSC for the late diagnostic group was not different from those with early NE ( P = .458) or CT ( P = .497). Overall survival was not different between diagnostic groups for NE ( P = .789) or CT ( P = .425).

Conclusions

Early NE or CT is associated with a higher likelihood of cancer diagnosis in elderly individuals with a diagnosis of CRS or AR. The clinical utility of this association is limited due to the low prevalence of these malignancies and lack of difference in disease stage and overall survival between diagnostic groups.
Clinical Outcomes after Revision of Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation to Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation for Large Chondral Defects: A Comparative Matched-Group Analysis
Authors: Merkely Gergo , Ogura Takahiro , Ackermann Jakob , Barbieri Mestriner Alexandre , Gomoll Andreas H.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) is a well-established procedure for patients with symptomatic cartilage defects in the knee. Revision to OCA after prior failed cartilage repair has shown similar clinical outcomes as primary OCA; however, most of the failed procedures were arthroscopic procedures for smaller defects. There is no literature investigating the clinical outcomes after OCA for prior failed autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for the treatment of large chondral defects of the knee. The purpose of this study was therefore to determine clinical outcomes of patients undergoing revision to OCA after prior failed ACI as compared with a matched cohort of patients undergoing OCA as a primary cartilage repair procedure (primary OCA).

Design

In this review of prospectively collected data, we analyzed data from 26 patients with at least 2 years follow-up. Thirteen patients who underwent revision to OCA after prior failed ACI by a single surgeon were compared with a matched group of patients who underwent primary OCA. The patients were matched per age, gender, body mass index, and defect size. Patient-reported outcomes, reoperations, and survival rates were compared between groups.

Results

There were no significant differences in patient-reported clinical outcome scores between the groups at final follow-up. Moreover, there was no significant difference in reoperation rates and survival rates between the groups.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates that revision to OCA is a viable treatment option with favorable functional outcomes and similar reoperation and survival rate as primary OCA even for revision of large chondral defects previously treated with ACI.
A time–motion observation study to measure and analyse clinical nursing workload in an acute care hospital in Singapore
Authors: Lim Mei Ling , Ang Shin Yuh
Published: March 2019

Internationally, there are concerns about rising nursing workforce shortages, which could be attributed to both recruitment and retention issues. As the population rapidly ages in Singapore, there is an increase in demand for more trained nurses to staff new facilities. Given the problem that Singapore is facing, there is a need for other solutions besides increasing recruitment rate. A time-motion study of nurses’ workload can assist us in determining how and what nurses spend their time on during their working shift. Work processes can then be studied to allow for improvements and implementation of strategies to ease nurses’ workload. Results of the current study demonstrated four main processes (preparing and clearing requisites, documentation, care coordination, transportation) that can be improved upon. Some of these processes do not require dedicated nursing skills; and can potentially be performed for other staff members. Results also demonstrated that nurses spent significantly less time on patient care activities as compared to nurses in United States; with as much as 31% of the nurses’ time being spent on documentation. Future studies can target on the effectiveness of strategies to improve the efficiency and quality of nursing care.
Reality and risk: A refutation of S. Rendón’s analysis of the Peruvian Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s conflict mortality study
Authors: Manrique-Vallier Daniel , Ball Patrick
Published: March 2019

We refute S. Rendón’s recent criticism of the 2003 Peruvian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) conflict mortality study. We first show that his most important result, an alternative estimate of the mortality due to the Maoist guerrillas of Shining Path ( Sendero Luminoso), is lower than existing observed data and is therefore impossible. We then analyze his statistical approach and find that it is affected by a subtle form of selection bias. We contrast his approach to the TRC’s using tools from statistical decision theory, and determine that his method is inadequate for this problem—and that the TRC’s approach is, at minimum, better. Without advocating for the TRC’s original results, we conclude that Rendón’s approach and methods are inferior to the TRC’s original work.
The neuropathic pain: An overview of the current treatment and future therapeutic approaches
Authors: Cavalli Eugenio , Mammana Santa , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela
Published: March 2019

Neuropathic pain is characterized by abnormal hypersensitivity to stimuli (hyperalgesia) and nociceptive responses to non-noxious stimuli (allodynia). The conditions and the pathophysiological states that determine the onset of neuropathic pain are heterogeneous, such as metabolic disorders, neuropathy caused by viral infections, and autoimmune diseases affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Neuropathic pain in the general population is estimated to have a prevalence ranging between 3% and 17%. Most of the available treatments for neuropathic pain have moderate efficacy and present side effects that limit their use; therefore, other therapeutic approaches are needed for patients. In this article, the current standard of care treatment, the emerging pharmacological approaches from the completed phase III clinical trials, and the preclinical studies on novel promising therapeutic options will be reviewed.
LncRNA UCA1/miR-143 miR-216b/HK2/MAPK signaling pathway is involved in the regulation of endothelial cell proliferation via the modulation of glycolysis in melanoma
Authors: Liu Pei , Zhu Lei , Zhang Fan , Lin Junhao , Du Min , Cao Zilong , Ma Ling , Hu Zhensheng
Published: March 2019

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are noncoding RNAs that function as regulators of tumor suppressors and oncogenes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential mechanism associated with the involvement of urothelial cancer associated 1 (UCA1) in melanoma. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were performed in order to determine the expression levels of UCA1, miR-143, miR-216b, and hexokinase 2 (HK2) in the melanoma and control groups, as well as the influence of UCA1, miR-143, and miR-216b on the expression of HK2, and the effect of lactate and UCA1 on the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK). Bioinformatics algorithm analysis and a luciferase assay were performed in order to predict miRNA targets. In addition, an MTT assay was performed in order to determine the effect of lactate and UCA1 expression on cell proliferation. A total of 39 participants, consisting of 18 patients with melanoma and 21 healthy control subjects, were included in the present study. The present study demonstrated that the expression levels of UCA1 mRNA, and HK2 mRNA and protein were enhanced in patients with melanoma compared with healthy controls; whereas the expression levels of miR-143 and miR-216b mRNA were suppressed in patients with melanoma compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, it was revealed that UCA1 negatively modulated the expression of miR-143 and miR-216b, and that miR-143 and miR-216b directly targeted the HK2 protein by binding to the HK2 3′ untranslated region (UTR). In addition, it was demonstrated that miR-143 and miR-216 suppressed the luciferase activity exhibited by wild-type HK2 3′-UTR. Furthermore, it was revealed that transfection with UCA1 small interfering RNA, and miR-143 and miR-216b mimics markedly suppressed HK2 mRNA and protein expression levels as well as lactate levels in human umbilical vein endothelial cells; however, O2 consumption was revealed to be enhanced post transfection. By contrast, transfection with UCA1 enhanced HK2 mRNA and protein expression levels as well as lactate production; however, O2 consumption was revealed to be suppressed post transfection. Lactate-induced phosphorylation of p38 MAPK was revealed to occur in a concentration-dependent manner, and UCA1 enhanced the phosphorylation level of p38 MAPK via the inhibition of miR-143 and miR-216b expression. Lactate and UCA1 were demonstrated to enhance cell proliferation. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that the lncRNA UCA1/miR-143 miR-216b/HK2/lactic acid/MAPK axis may be involved in the pathogenesis of melanoma via the modulation of endothelial cells, and thus, lncRNA UCA1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma treatment.
Nonmusicians Express Emotions in Musical Productions Using Conventional Cues
Authors: Kragness Haley E. , Trainor Laurel J.
Published: March 2019

Expert musicians use a number of expressive cues to communicate specific emotions in musical performance. In turn, listeners readily identify the intended emotions. Previous studies of cue utilization have studied the performances of expert or highly trained musicians, limiting the generalizability of the results. Here, we use a musical self-pacing paradigm to investigate expressive cue use by non-expert individuals with varying levels of formal music training. Participants controlled the onset and offset of each chord in a musical sequence by repeatedly pressing and lifting a single key on a MIDI piano, controlling tempo and articulation. In addition, the velocity with which they pressed the key controlled the sound level ( dynamics). Participants were asked to “perform” the music to express basic emotions that were (1) positively or negatively valenced and (2) high- or low-arousal ( joy, sadness, peacefulness, and anger). Nonmusicians’ expressive cue use was consistent with patterns of cue use by professional musicians described in the literature. In a secondary analysis, we explored whether formal training affected how tempo, articulation, dynamics, rhythm, and phrasing were employed to express the target emotions. We observed that the patterns of cue use were strikingly consistent across groups with differing levels of formal musical training. Future work could investigate whether expertise is implicated in the expression of more complex emotions and/or in the expression of more complex musical structures, as well as explore the role of emotional intelligence and informal musical experiences in expressive performance.
Guideline Implementation in Standardized Office Workflows and Exam Types
Authors: Dawson Amy , Henriksen Brian , Cortvriend Penny
Published: March 2019

Background: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in medicine are recommendations supported by systematic review of evidence to facilitate optimal patient outcomes. Primary care practices are expected to implement more than 200 CPGs, overwhelming many practices. This qualitative study elucidated the perspectives and priorities of family medicine physicians and office managers in grouping CPGs to facilitate implementation. Methods: A qualitative study was performed using individual, semistructured interviews. During the interviews the participants completed an open card-sort exercise grouping 20 CPGs. Purposive sampling was used to identify family medicine physicians and office managers practicing in medically underserved zip codes listed in the local medical society directory. Seven physicians and 6 office managers were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis and compared with the card-sort results. Results: Thematic content analysis identified priorities and perspectives of office managers and physicians when grouping multiple CPGs for implementation: delegation, personalization, triggers, and change management. The card sort exercise revealed grouping by standardized preventive care visit, standardized rooming and discharge processes, and chronic illness. Chronic illness-based groupings and personalization of guidelines were recognized as presenting barriers to delegation of CPGs to the care team. Development of standardized preventive exams, standard rooming and discharge processes and chronic disease management were identified as promoting CPG adherence through team-based care. Standardized workflows provided opportunities for task delegation through predicable roles. Medicalization of CPG implementation relied heavily on the physician alone to remember to adhere to CPGs and inhibited task sharing by not giving office staff clear disease-based protocols to follow. Conclusions: This study identified priorities and perspectives of office managers and physicians when grouping multiple CPGs for concomitant implementation: delegation, personalization, triggers, and change management. Successful implementation was perceived to be associated with standardized preventive exams, standard rooming and discharge processes, and chronic disease management.
Arthur Schopenhauer and the Current Conception of the Origin of Species: What Did the Philosopher Anticipate?
Authors: Baptista Trino , Aldana Elis , Abramson Charles I.
Published: March 2019

Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) was deeply influenced by Plato and conceived each species as an Idea, whose shape is essentially and permanently predetermined. He rejected Lamarck’s proposal of organ’s use/disuse as a source of evolution, but he was close to the orthogenetic movement that developed after his death. The philosopher did not conceive biological individual variability as a source for evolution, mathematical population analysis, and gradual evolution; he even imagined an ultra-rapid saltatory model in “higher forms.” Moreover, he conceived a metaphysically based coupling among all phenomena which resembles the contemporary model of natural drift of evolution. Hence, Schopenhauer did not strictly anticipate Darwin’s model of natural selection. However, he expressed in his own words competition and struggle for life. The philosopher thus anticipated more the orthogenesis and natural drift and less the Darwinian’s mechanisms of evolution than what is generally alleged. His work is a valuable philosophical source in the contemporary search for a new synthesis in evolutionary thought.