bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the effects of empagliflozin and glimepiride on endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Tamura Haruka , Kondo Yoshinobu , Ito Kohei , Hasebe Masanori , Satoh Shinobu , Terauchi Yasuo 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Abstract
Background : Among patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, those receiving empagliflozin have a lower rate of primary composite cardiovascular outcome and death from any cause. While treatment with sulfonylurea reduces microvascular complications in diabetes, it increases cardiovascular hospitalization or mortality in combination with metformin. In the present study, we assessed the effects of empagliflozin and glimepiride, a commonly prescribed sulfonylurea, on endothelial function using flow–mediated dilation (FMD) to estimate arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Methods : In this prospective, open-label, randomized, parallel-group study, 58 patients with type 2 diabetes received metformin and glargine before bedtime for 12 weeks. This was followed by additional treatment with either 10 mg empagliflozin or 0.5 mg glimepiride for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in the FMD measurement (DFMDs), measured prior to and after 12 weeks of additional treatment. Secondary outcomes comprised changes in metabolic markers and body composition.
Results : Analysis of the empagliflozin group ( n = 30) and glimepiride group ( n = 28) showed no significant differences in DFMDs (empagliflozin, −0.19 ± 2.34%; glimepiride, −0.37 ± 2.77%; P = 0.79). Similarly, changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were similar between the two groups. However, significant difference in body weight changes were observed between the two groups (empagliflozin, –0.59 ± 2.5 kg; glimepiride, 1.2 ± 3.0 kg; P = 0.02). In addition, an analysis of the body composition revealed that body fluid volume significantly decreased after empagliflozin treatment (baseline, 35.8 ± 6.8 L; after 12 weeks, –0.33 ± 0.72 L; P = 0.03).
Conclusions : Empagliflozin did not improve endothelial function when compared to glimepiride in patients with type 2 diabetes but decreased their body fluid volume. This suggested that the coronary protective effect of empagliflozin is not derived by protection of the endothelial function but rather from reduction in the risk of heart failure.
Trial Registration : This trial was registered on September 13, 2016; UMIN000024001 .
Keywords: Empagliflozin, Endothelial function, Glimepiride, Diabetes, Flow–mediated dilation
The mutational spectrum of Hunter syndrome reveals correlation between biochemical and clinical profiles in Tunisian patients
Authors: Chkioua Latifa , Grissa Oussama , Leban Nadia , Gribaa Moez , Boudabous Hela , Turkia Hadhami Ben , Ferchichi Salima , Tebib Neji , Laradi Sandrine 
Published: February 2020

Abstract

Background: Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II) or Hunter syndrome is an X-linked recessive lysosomal storage disorder resulting from deficient activity of iduronate 2-sulfatase (IDS) and the progressive lysosomal accumulation of sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Methods: A diagnosis of MPS II or Hunter syndrome was performed based on the following approach after a clinical and paraclinical suspicion. Two biochemical and molecular tests were carried out separately and according to the availability of the biological material. Results: All patients in this cohort presented the most common MPS II clinical features. Electrophoresis of GAGs on a cellulose acetate plate in the presence of a high concentration of heparane sulfate showed an abnormal dermatan sulfate band in the patients compared with that in a control case. Furthermore, leukocyte IDS activity ranged from 0.00 to 0.75 nmol/h/mg of leukocyte protein in patients. Five previously reported mutations were identified in this study patients: one splice site mutation, c.240+1G>A; two missense mutations, p.R88P and p.G94D; a large deletion of exon 1 to exon 7; and one nonsense mutation, p.Q396*. In addition, two novel alterations were identified in the MPS II patients: one frame shift mutation, p.D450Nfs*95 and one nonsense mutation, p.Q204*. Additionally, five known IDS polymorphisms were identified in the patients: IVS3-16 (c.419-16 delT), p.T214M (c.641C>T), p.T146T (c.438 C>T), IVS5-87 (c.709-87G>A), and IVS7+38 (c.1006+38T>C). Conclusions: The high level of urine GAGs and the deficiency of iduronate 2-sulfatase activity was associated with the phenotype expression of Hunter syndrome. Molecular testing was useful for the patients’ phenotypic classification and the detection of carriers.
Characteristics of sleep/wake problems and delivery outcomes among pregnant Japanese women without gestational complications
Authors: Umeno Shiho , Kato Chiho , Nagaura Yuki , Kondo Hideaki , Eto Hiromi 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Frequently observed sleep/wake problems among pregnant women need comprehensive evaluation. This study was conducted to clarify the sleep/wake problems among pregnant women without gestational complications during the second and third trimester and the effects of sleep/wake problems on delivery outcomes. Methods: A total of 88 Japanese pregnant women participated in this study. In their second and third trimester, subjective sleep quality, insomnia severity, excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), and restless legs syndrome/Willis-Ekbom disease (RLS/WED) were assessed using questionnaires; also, sleep disordered breathing (SDB) was screened using a pulse oximeter. Results: From the second to the third trimester, an increasing tendency of sleep/wake problems was observed. During the third trimester, the percentages of women experiencing decreased subjective sleep quality, difficulty maintaining sleep (DMS), EDS, RLS/WED, and 3% oxygen desaturation index (ODI) values ≥ 5/hour were 62.5%, 45.5%, 48.9%, 9.1%, and 29.5%, respectively. In a logistic regression analysis for EDS in the third trimester, the adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of total sleep duration < 6 hours, moderate to severe DMS, and 3% ODI values ≥ 5/hour were 3.25 (1.16–9.10), 4.74 (1.60–14.00), and 0.90 (0.28–2.89), respectively. Although short sleep durations, decreased subjective sleep quality, EDS, and SDB did not affect delivery outcomes or the infant’s condition, the percentage of women undergoing cesarean sections in the severe insomnia group was significantly higher (p = 0.008). Conclusions: Sleep/wake problems were frequent during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. EDS among pregnant women was associated with shorter sleep durations and DMS rather than SDB. The effect of factors related to insomnia on delivery outcomes should thus be considered a crucial problem among pregnant Japanese women without gestational complications in clinical practice.
Overexpression of GmNFYA5 confers drought tolerance to transgenic Arabidopsis and soybean plants
Authors: Ma Xiao-Jun , Yu Tai-Fei , Li Xiao-Hui , Cao Xin-You , Ma Jian , Chen Jun , Zhou Yong-Bin , Chen Ming , Ma You-Zhi , Zhang Jun-Hua , Xu Zhao-Shi 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Crop productivity is challenged by abiotic stresses, among which drought stress is the most common. NF-Y genes, especially NF-YA genes, regulate tolerance to abiotic stress. Results: Soybean NF-Y gene GmNFYA5 was identified to have the highest transcript level among all 21 NF-YA genes in soybean ( Glycine max L.) under drought stress. Drought-induced transcript of GmNFYA5 was suppressed by the ABA synthesis inhibitor naproxen (NAP). GmNFYA5 transcript was detected in various tissues at vegetative and reproductive growth stages with higher levels in roots and leaves than in other tissues, which was consist with the GmNFYA5 promoter:GUS fusion assay. Overexpression of GmNFYA5 in transgenic Arabidopsis plants caused enhanced drought tolerance in seedlings by decreasing stomatal aperture and water loss from leaves. Overexpression and suppression of GmNFYA5 in soybean resulted in increased and decreased drought tolerance, respectively, relative to plants with an empty vector (EV). Transcript levels of ABA-dependent genes ( ABI2 , ABI3 , NCED3 , LEA3 , RD29A , P5CS1 , GmWRKY46 , GmNCED2 and GmbZIP1 ) and ABA-independent genes ( DREB1A , DREB2A , DREB2B , GmDREB1 , GmDREB2 and GmDREB3 ) in transgenic plants overexpressing GmNFYA5 were higher than those of wild-type plants under drought stress; suppression of GmNFYA5 transcript produced opposite results. GmNFYA5 probably regulated the transcript abundance of GmDREB2 and GmbZIP1 by binding to the promoters in vivo. Conclusions: Our results suggested that overexpression of GmNFYA5 improved drought tolerance in soybean via both ABA-dependent and ABA-independent pathways.
Structure and Permeability Characterization of Sinojackia xylocarpa Hu drupe, based on High-field Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Paraffin Section Detection
Authors: WU YU , Shen Bao 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Sinojackia xylocarpa Hu is an endangered plant species endemic to China. In this study, we observed the permeability of Sinojackia xylocarpa Hu drupe in the imbibition phase by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) dynamics, and obtained the spatial representation of the water distribution in the drupe. At the same time, the structure of the drupe, the permeability of the seed coat and the endosperm were monitored through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and paraffin section detection (PSD) .
Identification and analysis of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) associated co-expression and ceRNA regulatory networks in esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Haigen , Zhuang Jing , Yang Xi , Wu Wei , Dai Siqi , Qi Quang , Han Shuwen 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to investigate the role of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) and their host genes (SNHGs) in tumorigenesis and progression of esophageal carcinoma (EC). Methods: RNA-seq data and clinical information for EC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Differentially expressed snoRNAs (DE-snoRNAs) and SNHGs (DE-SNHGs) between EC samples and normal controls were screened with the edgeR package, followed by the trend analysis with STEM. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method with the log-rank test. Identification of co-expressed genes and functional enrichment analyses were performed with Pearson’s correlation analysis and enrichment analysis, respectively. Lastly, the co-expression and ceRNA networks were constructed. Results: A total of 19 DE-snoRNAs and nine DE-SNHGs were identified between EC samples and normal controls. Moreover, two snoRNA clusters related to the clinic stage were identified through trend analysis. Survival analysis results demonstrated that SNORA70D was significantly associated with the overall survival of EC patients (P=0.034). In addition, a co-regulation network that included six snoRNAs and 29 mRNAs was constructed. A ceRNA network comprised of five SNHGs, 11 mRNAs, and 38 miRNAs was constructed based on the top 50 relationship pairs. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that SNORA14B, SNORA47, SNORA71C, SNORD12B, and SNORD14E in the co-expression network were mainly enriched in the NOD−like receptor signaling pathway, and neuroactive ligand−receptor interaction pathway. SNHG23, SNHG3, SNHG17, SNHG4, and SNHG8 in the ceRNA regulation network were mainly enriched in calcium signaling pathway, cytokine−cytokine receptor interaction, and the extracellular matrix−receptor interaction pathway. Conclusion: The data revealed a series of snoRNAs, SNHGs, and pathways involved in EC carcinogenesis, which will provide a basis for understanding the underlying molecular mechanism of EC development.
Propofol inhibits inflammatory response by regulating the miR-494/ Nrdp1 pathway in ICH mice model
Authors: Shi Hui , Xiong Qijiang , Huang Zhongyan , yang zhao 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Propofol is an anesthetic agent with neuro-protective effect in neuronal injury. However, the mechanism of propofol in M1 macrophage polarization following ICH has not been well studied. Ubiquitination mediated M1/M2 macrophage polarization plays important roles in pathogenesis of immune disease. The experiment analyzed anti-inflammatory effects of propofol in macrophages following ICH. Methods: In the experiment, macrophages were administrated with erythrocyte lysates, and then miR-494, Nrdp1 and M1 related markers were analyzed. In addition, brain inflammatory response, brain edema, and neurological functions of ICH mice were also assessed. Results: We found that propofol decreased miR-494 levels while increased Nrdp1 levels in macrophages after ICH. We also demonstrated that miR-494 inhibited Nrdp1 expression by directly binding its 3′-untranslated region. MiR-494 attenuated Nrdp1 levels and downstream proinflammatory factors production. Upregulation of Nrdp1 in macrophages significantly decreased M1 macrophage polarization. Conclusion: Taken together, these results suggest that propofol can attenuate the neuroinflammatory response of macrophages after ICH through regulation of the miR-494/Nrdp1 pathway.
Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Glucocorticoid Resistance in Polymyalgia Rheumatica: A Prospective Study
Authors: Owen Claire , McMaster Christopher , Liew David FL , Leung Jessica L , Scott Andrew M , Buchanan Russell RC 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been found to correlate with disease activity in several rheumatic diseases, however their clinical and prognostic utility in polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) remains unclear. This study evaluated the relationship between NLR and PLR, and disease activity and glucocorticoid resistance in PMR. Methods Data for disease activity (PMR-AS) and full blood examination was obtained from a prospective observational cohort comprising newly diagnosed (2012 EULAR/ACR classification criteria), steroid-naïve PMR patients treated with low-dose glucocorticoid therapy (BSR guideline). Glucocorticoid resistance was defined as non-response to initial prednisolone dose (15mg/day) or initial response followed by flare (PMR-AS ≥9.35 or ∆≥6.6) upon weaning prednisolone to 5mg/day. Univariable Bayesian linear regression analysis of the relationship between PMR-AS (baseline and mean) and NLR and PLR was performed. Predictors of glucocorticoid resistance were identified using a multivariable outcome model, with variables chosen based upon Bayesian model selection. Results Of the 32 included patients, 16 (50%) fulfilled the primary outcome measure of glucocorticoid resistance. These participants were older, typically female, and had higher baseline CRP than their glucocorticoid-responsive counterparts. A statistically significant relationship was identified between PMR-AS and both NLR (OR 28.1 [95% CI 1.6 – 54.7]) and PLR (OR 40.6 [95% CI 10.1 – 71.4]) at baseline, with PLR also found to correlate with disease activity during follow-up (OR 15.6 [95% CI 2.7 – 28.2]). Baseline NLR proved to be a statistically significant predictor of glucocorticoid-resistant PMR (OR 14.01 [95% CI 1.49 – 278.06]). Conclusion Baseline NLR can predict glucocorticoid resistance in newly diagnosed PMR patients. Both NLR and PLR may be reliable biomarkers of disease activity in PMR.
Laparoscopic surgery management of Hydronephrosis secondary to Left Paraduodenal Hernia in cryptorchid: Case report and a literature review
Authors: Wang xin , Guan Yong , Wu Yong , Meng QingYa 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Rationale

Left paraduodenal hernia (PDH) is a mesenterico-parietal hernia with retroperitoneal retrocolic herniation of the small bowel into a sac formed by a peritoneal fold located near the fourth portion of the duodenum. It’s a rare cause of hydronephrosis by compressed the upper left ureter. Traditionally, PDH are treated by laparotomy.

Patient concerns

An 8-year-old boy’s primary purpose was the treatment of cryptorchidism. But hydronephrosis was detected and it was induced by left paraduodenal hernia.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic laparoscopic exploration confirmed the diagnosis left paraduodenal hernia secondary hydronephrosis. Cryptorchidism was the primary purpose of treatment.

Interventions

The patient was treated with laparoscopic surgery, fixed left paraduodenal hernia, released the ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) and treated hydronephrosis.

Out comes

Secondary surgery for treating cryptorchidism would be performed and the long-term follow up was necessary.

Lessons

This case suggests us a rare cause of hydronephrosis in children. Every why has a wherefore. We must pay much attention to any unusual details in our medical work even though these details aren’t related to our primary objects.
Microbial indices of industrial and traditional medicinal herbs in Ahvaz, Iran
Authors: Ameri Abdolghani , Ekhtelat Maryam , Shamsaei Sara 
Published: February 2020

Introduction. Medicinal herbs are susceptible to microbial contamination which can have profound effects on the consumer’s health. Our study aimed to evaluate microbial contamination of common medicinal herbs in Ahvaz.
Study objects and methods. We collected 80 samples of traditional and industrial medicinal plants from the supply market, namely valeriana, fennel, licorice, and shirazi thyme. The reference method was used to determine microbial indices such as the total count of microorganisms, yeast and mold, Bacillus cereus, coliforms, and Escherichia coli.
Results and discussion. We found that the total microbial count, yeast and mold, B. cereus, and coliform contamination accounted for 45, 77, 55, and 55% of the total samples, respectively, exceeding the allowed limits. There was a significant difference between the industrial and traditional samples in fungal and coliform contamination, with the traditional samples being more highly contaminated. However, no significant difference was observed between them in total count and B. cereus contamination. E. coli contamination was detected in 31.2% of the samples, mostly in traditional. Total microbial count and yeast and mold contamination were highest among valeriana plants. Fennel showed the highest B. cereus and coliform contamination. The lowest contamination was observed in licorice.
Conclusion. The results showed that a considerable percentage of the medicinal herbs under study were contaminated at levels exceeding the standard limits. Plants could be contaminated during harvesting, processing or storage. Finally, different species of plants have different antimicrobial activities that affect their microbial contamination.
Anti-Amyloid Aggregating Gold Nanoparticles: Can they Really be Translated from Bench to Bedside for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment?
Authors: Shaikh Sibhghatulla , Nazam Nazia , Danish Rizvi Syed Mohd , Hussain Talib , Farhana Aisha , Choi Inho 
Published: February 2020

:
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by deposition of amyloid-β protein aggregates
and an appropriate treatment strategy is urgently needed, as the number of diagnosed cases continues
to increase. The management of AD and other brain-associated diseases is limited by the blood brain
barrier and its selective control of drug passage. In fact, most of the promising drugs have restricted
curative effects on AD owing to their lower bioavailability. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have emerged
as attractive therapeutic agents and have distinctive properties that could contribute to the development
of a novel treatment strategy for neurodegenerative disorders. In this review article, we attempt to identify
promising ways of developing competent AD therapeutic agents from anti-amyloid aggregating
AuNPs. Initially, we discuss the current status of anti-amyloid inhibitors, the abilities of AuNPs to
inhibit amyloid aggregation, and mechanistic aspects, and then describe plausible modifications that
could aid the translation of AuNP-based therapeutics into neuromedicines. The review highlights some
interesting characteristics that might effectively bridge the gap between laboratory and bedside treatments.
Effects of Thermosonication, Sonication and Mild Heating on Organoleptic Attributes of Three Red Fruit Juices
Authors: Hooshyar Leila , Jafarizadeh-Malmiri Hoda , Berenjian Aydin , Hesari Javad , Azadmard-Damirchi Sodeif , Şengül Memnune 
Published: February 2020

Background:
Colour and turbidity (appearance), odour and flavour, taste, and texture are
the main parameters affecting consumer’s perception of juice quality. Anthocyanins, as natural antioxidant
and water-soluble pigment, exist in red fruit juices which are extremely unstable and more
susceptible to degradation. These mainly include anthocyanins, pigments, proteins, and vitamins that
are thermally sensitive.

Objective:
The present study focuses on the treatment of three different fruit juices namely red grape,
pomegranate, and sour cherry using different preservative methods and evaluation of their organoleptic
properties.

Methods:
Four preservative methods including pasteurization (90°C for 30 sec), mild heat treatment
(60°C for 4, 8 and 12 min), sonication (25°C) and thermosonication (90°C) using amplitude levels of
24.4, 42.7 and 61 μm for 4, 8 and 12 min, have been used for the treatment of the three selected fruit juices.

Results:
Obtained results indicate that untreated grape juice had maximum L* value (29.83) and the
pasteurized grape juice had a minimum L* value (25.77). Furthermore, while a* values of untreated
grape, pomegranate, and sour cherry juices were 39.7, 42.03 and 38.13, respectively, these pasteurized
juices had minimum a* values of 35.3, 38.47 and 36.97, respectively. In addition, results revealed
that sonication and mild heating had minimum effects on colour and appearance, odour and
flavour of all three studied juices. Furthermore, significant positive (p˂0.05) effects of thermosonication
were observed for the cloudiness parameter of the studied juices. Maximum acceptability
scores were achieved by mild heat-treated grape juice at 60°C for 8 min (8.33), thermosonicated
pomegranate juice at 60°C and amplitude of 24.4 μm for 4 min (7.33) and sonicated sour cherry juice
at 25°C and amplitude of 24.4 μm for 4 min (9.33).

Conclusion:
Different preservative methods with optimum processing conditions were successfully
utilized to minimize the changes in the sensorial and physicochemical properties of the treated juices.
Role of Nanocatalyst (Photocatalysts) for Waste Water Treatment
Authors: Sagir Muhammad , Tahir Muhammad B. 
Published: February 2020

Background:
The aim of the current study is to understand the application of Nanotechnology
in the field of water and waste water treatment processes due to the increasing scarcity of
water with the passage of time. The knowledge about the effect of various photo catalysts on the
treatment of waste water is also compiled here.

Introduction:
In recent years, many researches have been working on the projects for the removal of
organic and inorganic pollutants from water using photo catalysts, which provide more efficient,
economical and as well as pollution free processes to some extent. Nanomaterials are found in large
research categories and are used in a variety of applications.

Methods:
Photo catalysis using Iron, Zinc, Silver, Metal oxides, SnO2, Carbon Nano-tubes, Nano
composites and Membranes are focused in this paper.

Result:
Discussion regarding various parameters as well as future aspects of nanoparticles on waste
water treatment are highlighted. Impacts of nanoparticles on health are also incorporated here.

Conclusion:
Considering the current speed of development and revolution in tech, nano materials for
this type of applications seems very promising.