bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Investigation of The Cytotoxic Activity of E35 on Multiple Myeloma Cell Lines
Authors: Zheng Jing , Chen Yingyu , Zheng Zhihong , Chen Yanxin , Chai Yujuan , Wang Wenfeng , Asakawa Tetsuya , Hu Jianda 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Bortezomib is used for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM); however, it has significant adverse effects. Emodin has been reported to exhibit inhibitory effects on MM cell lines. Here, we investigated the efficacy of E35, an emodin derivative, using U266 and MM1s cell lines in the treatment of MM and the efficacy of the combination of bortezomib and E35. Methods: MTT assays were used to observe the effects of E35 on MM cell growth. The effects on cellular apoptosis were observed using the Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining assay. The expression of apoptosis-related genes, including the caspase family, was also examined. The efficacy of the combination of bortezomib and E35 was investigated by examining the expression of the Akt/mTOR/4EBP1 signaling pathway-related proteins. Results: We found that E35 inhibited the growth of the U266 and MM1s cells by inducing cellular apoptosis. E35 also downregulated the expression of the apoptosis-related genes and suppressed the phosphorylation of the Akt/mTOR/4EBP1 signaling pathway-related genes, exhibiting synergistic effects with bortezomib. All the observed effects were dose-dependent. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that E35 exhibited cytotoxic effects in MM cell lines. Thus, E35, especially in combination with bortezomib, may be considered as a promising treatment for MM. However, this requires further investigation in vivo.
Characterizing Longitudinal Change in Physical Activity and Fear of Falling in Glaucoma
Authors: E Jian-Yu , Mihailovic Aleksandra , Schrack Jennifer A. , Li Tianjing , Friedman David S. , West Sheila K. , Gitlin Laura N. , Ramulu Pradeep Y. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Older adults with visual impairments experience a higher risk of falling, and are more vulnerable to adverse health consequences associated with falls than those with normal vision. This study aims to characterize the longitudinal changes of objectively measured physical activity and self-reported fear of falling (FoF) related to types of falls in visually impaired older adults. Methods: We obtained data from the Falls in Glaucoma Study (FIGS), a prospective cohort study that recruited 234 participants at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute from 2013 to 2015. Falls were defined as unintentionally coming to rest on the ground or a lower level, and injurious falls were determined though follow-up calls. Study participants were categorized into three groups – fallers with injurious consequences, fallers without injurious consequences, and non-fallers based on fall status in the first year. Physical activity was assessed using a waist-bound accelerometer (Actical). FoF was evaluated by questionnaire, with Rasch modeling generating FoF scores where higher scores reflected worse FoF. The three-year longitudinal changes of physical activity and FoF were modeled using mixed-effects models. Results: In linear models fully adjusted for visual field damage and other covariates, physical activity among injurious fallers declined 425 steps/year (95% confidence interval [CI]: -793, -57), 13 active minutes/year (95% CI: -21, -6), and 3 minutes/year of moderate/vigorous activity (95% CI: -5, 0) more over the three-year study period compared to non-fallers; however, physical activity did not decline among non-injurious fallers. No longitudinal increases in FoF scores were observed in injurious or non-injurious fallers.Conclusions: Among visually impaired older adults, injurious falls identified prospectively over 12 months contributed to a significant decline in physical activity over a three-year period, while no significant increases were observed for FoF. Further longitudinal research is warranted to better understand how different groups respond to falls, either via behavioral changes and/or changes in FoF, and to characterize the impact of reduced physical activity in fallers.
The Efficiency And Safety Of Dexamethasone For Pain Relief Followed Lumbar Decompression And Fusion: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Chao , Chen Chen , Yang Xiaotian , Wang Rui , Xue Yuan 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: This meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety and efficiency of dexamethasone for pain relief followed lumbar decompression and fusion.Methods: Two reviewers have independently searched 3 electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library) up to Jun, 2019 without restrictions on language and publication. After testing for heterogeneity between studies, data were aggregated for random-effects models when necessary. The results of dichotomous outcomes were expressed as relative risks (RRs) with a 95% confidence intervals (CIs). For continuous variable, mean and standard difference (SD) were applied for assessment. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 12.0 software.Results: Seven RCTs and one retrospective study including 958 patients met the inclusion criteria. The present meta-analysis indicated that there were significant differences between groups in terms of visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 24 hours of movement (SMD=0.44, 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.21, P < 0.001). Dexamethasone group was associated with a lower opioids consumption at 24 hours (SMD=0.601, 95% CI: 0.93 to 0.28, P < 0.001), less occurrence of nausea and vomiting (RR=0.52, 95% CI: 0.40 to 0.67, P < 0.001), shorter length of hospital stay (SMD = 0.207, 95% CI: 0.396 to 0.017, P = 0.003).Conclusion: In our meta-analysis of 8 reliable studies, we found that intravenous dexamethasone could significantly reduce postoperative pain scores and opioids consumption within the 24 hours followed lumbar decompression and fusion. Furthermore, patients could gain functional exercise early and the length of stay in hospital was significantly shorten. More researches were needed to confirm these conclusions.
Comparative analysis of some bioactive compounds in leaves of different Aloe species
Authors: Andrea Bunea , Rugina Dumitrita , Florina Copaciu , Francisc Dulf , Anastasia Veres , Socaci Sonia , Adela Pintea 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Although a vast number of Aloe species are known, only the Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens species are currently used by cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, the current study aims to complete the existent literature data with new information on the phytochemical composition of some lesser-known Aloe species, with the main focus on carotenoids and fatty acids. Among the analyzed species, Aloe aculeata and Aloe ferox had the highest content in carotenoids, the major pigments being lutein and β-carotene (according to HPLC analysis). The fatty acid profile of each Aloe species was analysed by GC-MS. Linolenic and linoleic acids were the major polyunsaturated fatty acids found in higher percent in Aloe ferox, Aloe spectabilis and Aloe marlothii. Instead, Aloe aculeata proved to have a distinct fatty acid profile, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. Species such as Aloe arborescens and Aloe marlothii proved to have the highest antioxidant potential according to data of DPPH, ORAC, HPS assays, even if the richest one in vitamin C was found to be Aloe spectabilis. Though the scientific research is mainly focused on the common species Aloe barbadensis, current data suggests that other Aloe species could receive more attention from industry part, being great sources of bioactive compounds.
Effect of Virtual Reality on Cognitive Impairment and Clinical Symptoms Among Patients with Schizophrenia in the Remission Stage: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Shangda , Sun Bin , Wei Ning , Shen Zhe , Jin Kangyu , Zhao Haoyang , Chen Yaping , Huang manli , Xu Yi 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: This is an intervention study which explores the effect of using virtual reality supermarket training system (VRSTS) to improve cognitive function deficiency and clinical symptoms in Han Chinese patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage. Methods:68 patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage were recruited for the interventional study and were randomly allocated to either virtual reality training (VRT) group or treatment-as-usual (TAU) group. For VRT group, patients received training with VRSTS for two weeks and antipsychotic treatment as usual while TAU group only received antipsychotic treatment as usual. Cognitive function and clinical symptoms before and after intervention were assessed by MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Personal and Social Performance Scale (PSP).Results:Results showed (1) VRSTS could improve MCCB composite scores and 4 out of 7 cognitive domains: speed of processing, working memory, visual learning, reasoning and problem solving, and (2) VRSTS could alleviate general psychopathology symptoms of PANSS but did not exert effects on positive and negative symptoms among patients with schizophrenia in the remission stageConclusion:A therapeutic effect of VRSTS was observed in patients with schizophrenia in the remission stage. It may improve cognitive impairment and general psychopathology symptoms.Trial registration: China Clinical Trial Registry, ChiVTR1800016121. Registered 13 May 2018, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=27233
Impact of COVID-19 Lock down period on Ocular Trauma
Authors: Shah Prof Mehul , Bhasin Purendra , Shah Shreya , Patel Heena 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Introduction: This study investigated the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown on the incidence of ocular trauma.Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we collected data of patients who presented with ocular trauma in the emergency department during the lockdown period (from 22 March, 2020, to 30 April, 2020). In addition, we collected data of patients presenting with ocular trauma during the same period in the previous year. We compared the number of patients who underwent ocular surgery and the number of paediatric patients with ocular trauma between these two periods. A confounding factor may be the absence of patients from different districts who could not travel to the centre due to travel restrictions.Results: Between 22 March, 2019, and 30 April, 2019, a total of 76 patients presented with ocular trauma, of whom 28( 37.2%) required surgery. By contrast, between 22 March, 2020, and 30 April, 2020, a total of 78 patients presented with ocular trauma, of whom 33(42)% required surgery. Furthermore, 9% and 30% of the total patients in 2019 and 2020, respectively, belonged to the paediatric age group. Conclusions: COVID-19 lockdown exerted a significant effect on the incidence of ocular trauma.
Lymphatic Muscle Cells Contribute to Dysfunction of the Synovial Lymphatic System in Inflammatory Arthritis in Mice
Authors: Liang Qianqian , Zhang Li , Xu Hao , Li Jinlong , Chen Yan , Schwarz Edward M. , Shi Qi , Wang Yongjun , Xing Lianping 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background. We previous studies reveal impaired draining function of the synovial lymphatic vessel (LV) contributes to inflammatory arthritis, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved are not fully understood.Objective. To investigate the involvement of lymphatic muscle cells (LMCs) in mediating impaired LV function in inflammatory arthritis.Methods. TNF transgenic (TNF-Tg) arthritic mice were used. Structure and function of the LVs that drain the hind limbs were examined by whole-mount immunofluorescence staining, electron microscope, and near-infrared lymphatic imaging. Primary LMCs were treated with TNF, and the changes in proliferation, apoptosis, and functional gene expression were assessed. Roles of the herbal drug, Panax Notoginseng Saponins (PNS), in arthritis and LVs were studied.Results. TNF-Tg mice developed ankle arthritis with age, which was associated with abnormalities of LVs: 1) dilated capillary LVs with few branch points; 2) mature LVs with reduced LMC coverage and draining function; 3) degenerative and apoptotic appearance of LMCs. TNF caused LMC apoptosis, reduced expression of muscle functional genes, and promoted the production of nitric oxide (NO) by lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). PNS attenuated arthritis, restored LMC coverage and draining function of mature LVs, inhibited TNF-mediated NO expression, and reduced LMC apoptosis.Conclusion. The impaired draining function of LVs in TNF-Tg mice involves LMC apoptosis. TNF promotes LMC death directly and indirectly via NO production by LECs. PNS attenuates arthritis, improves LVs, and prevents TNF-induced LMC apoptosis by inhibiting NO production of LECs. LMCs contribute to the dysfunction of synovial LVs in inflammatory arthritis.
Effects of rearing system and narasin on growth performance, gastro-intestinal development and gut microbiota of broilers
Authors: Yan Lei , Lv Zunzhou , An Sha , Xing Kun , Wang Zhengguo , Lv Mingbin , Choct Mingan , Guo Yuming , Zhou Guilian 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThis study was conducted to evaluate the effects of three rearing systems (FL: flooring litter rearing, MC: multilayer cage rearing, PN: plastic net rearing) and narasin inclusion or not on growth performance, gastro-intestine development and health of broilers. A total of 2400 one-day-old Ross 308 mixed-sex broilers (1:1 ratio of males and females) were used in a completely randomized design utilizing a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments, with 12 replicates per treatment. In each replicate for FL, MC and PN consisted of: 34 birds per pen, 30 birds per cage, and 36 birds per pen, respectively, ensuring that the density of each rearing system was the same (12 birds/m2).ResultsLower ADG (average daily gain), ADFI (average daily feed intake) and FCR (feed conversation ratio) observed in MC group than those of the other two systems from 1 to 36 days of age (P < 0.05). Narasin inclusion in diets decreased ADFI and FCR significantly (P < 0.05). MC and PN rearing systems reduced the relative weight of the gizzard significantly (P < 0.05). Compared with FL rearing, MC reduced the relative weight of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of the ileal IL-1β and IFN-γ in FL was higher than those in PN and MC groups (P < 0.05). Narasin decreased the mRNA expressions of TNF-α in the ileum (P < 0.05). Different rearing systems changed the ileal microflora structure of broilers. The FL system increased ileal microbial diversity of broilers and relative abundance of Actinobacteria. Narasin combined with MC increased the relative abundance Proteobacteria of broilers. Conclusionbirds reared in PN had higher body weight. MC birds had poorer intestinal development and health condition, higher abundance of Proteobacteria, but better FCR. FL rearing appeared to be propitious for gastro-intestinal development and health. Narasin inclusion in diets improved FCR and changed the relative abundance Proteobacteria of broilers.
COVID-19 pandemic: Nigerians’ knowledge, perception and adherence to preventive measures
Authors: Oyeyemi Oyetunde , Oladoyin Victoria , Okunlola Oluyemi , Mosobalaje Akinola , Oyeyemi Ifeoluwa , Adebimpe Wasiu , Nwuba Roseangela , Anuoluwa Iyadunni , Tiamiyu Adebisi , Ovuakporie-uvo Oghale , Adesina Isaac , Olatunji Babawale , Kone Jennifer , Oluwafemi Yinka , Obajaja Caleb , Ajiboye Abiodun 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Aims: One of the ways to manage the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is monitoring of public knowledge, risk perceptions, adherence to preventive measures and preparedness behaviors. This is of utmost importance in resource limited countries. This study determined the knowledge and perception about COVID-19; adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures; as well as predictors of self-perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 among Nigerian adults.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Nigerian adults ≥ 18 years using an online survey. Participants were recruited using the authors’ social networks. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics at 5% level of statistical significance.Results: Generally, a high proportion of respondents had correct knowledge about COVID-19. However, only about half (49.8% and 49.9%) had correct knowledge that obesity was a risk factor for COVID-19 and that antibiotics cannot be used to treat COVID-19. Most (84.1%) did not have a self-perceived risk of contracting COVID-19. Most (81.0%) have been avoiding crowded places and 61.3% washed their hands very often. Predictors of self-perceived risk of COVID-19 were age 40-59 years (OR 2.05, CI 1.217-3.435), ≥ 60 years (OR 4.68, CI 1.888-11.583) and visiting crowded places (OR 2.27, CI 1.499-3.448).Conclusion: Our study recommends more rigorous public health education aimed at improving COVID-19 outbreak response in Nigerian. Also, physical and social distancing should be emphasized across all age groups with additional focus on the older population.
Prevalence, and Associated Factors of tobacco smoking among adults in the United Arab Emirates; Results from National Health Survey
Authors: Razzak Hira Abdul , Qawas Ahmad , Mujahed Marwa , Harbi Alya 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Cigarette smoking is one of the major public health concern and is the primary cause of preventable illness and premature death. Tobacco use, including secondary smoking, is a major contributing factor to morbidity and mortality across UAE. This study examined the prevalence, and associated factors of tobacco smoking among adults living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The study further aims to study the socioeconomic determinants such as employment, education and income of the UAE population with respect to the status of smoking.Methods A population-based survey of adults aged 18+ was undertaken. Around 10,000 randomly selected Households across all 7 Emirates were selected to yield representative data. A total of 8188 adults (18 years and above) participated in the national health survey. The overall response rate was 87% among adult participants.Results Overall, the prevalence of current smoking was 9.1% among the selected population whereas, 0.8 % of the respondents smoked tobacco on daily basis. Smoking rates were higher in individuals having lower levels of education, students studying in university and people who had no income.Conclusion Providing data on the prevalence and factors associated with smoking among specific populations may offer an improved understanding of the tobacco use patterns as well as it may help in developing interventions or health related policies.
Can the app contain the spread?An agent-based model of COVID-19 and the effectiveness of smartphone-based contact tracing
Authors: Almagor Jonatan , Picascia Stefano 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
A contact-tracing strategy has been deemed necessary to contain the spread of COVID-19 following the relaxation of lockdown measures. Using an agent-based model, we explore one of the technology-based strategies proposed, a contact-tracing smartphone app. The model simulates the spread of COVID-19 in a population of agents on an urban scale. Agents are heterogeneous in their characteristics and are linked in a multi-layered network representing the social structure - including households, friendships, employment and schools.We explore the interplay of various adoption rates of the contact-tracing app, different levels of testing capacity, and behavioural factors, to assess the ability of this track-and-trace strategy to mitigate the epidemic. Results suggest that the app can contribute substantially to the reduction of infections in the population, although complete suppression of the virus is unlikely to be achieved. The model also shows that, while adopting the app is beneficial for epidemic control in most cases, a high adoption rate is likely to generate an extensive increase in the demand for testing, which, if not met with adequate supply, may render the app counterproductive. This points to the crucial role of an efficient testing policy and the necessity to upscale testing capacity.
From SARS-CoV-2 hematogenous spreading to endothelial dysfunction: clinical-histopathological study of cutaneous signs of COVID-19
Authors: Patrì Angela , Vargas Maria , Buonanno Pasquale , Annunziata Maria Carmela , Russo Daniela , Staibano Stefania , Servillo Giuseppe , Fabbrocini Gabriella 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: To date, very few studies on clinical-histopathological correlations of cutaneous disorders associated with COVID-19 have been conducted. Case presentation: The Case 1 was a 90-year-old man, who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from a nasopharyngeal swab. Two days later, he was hospitalized and after eleven days transferred to Intensive Care Unit. A chest CT showed bilateral ground-glass opacities. Just that day, an erythematous maculo-papular rash appeared on trunk, shoulders and neck, becoming purpuric after few days. Histological evaluations revealed a chronic superficial dermatitis with purpuric aspects. The superficial and papillary dermis appeared edematous, with a perivascular lympho-granulocytic infiltrate and erythrocytic extravasation. At intraepithelial level, spongiosis and a granulocyte infiltrate were detected. Arterioles, capillaries and post-capillary venules showed endothelial swelling and appeared ectasic. The patient was treated with hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, lopinavir-ritonavir and tocilizumab. Regrettably, due to severe lung impairment, he died.The Case 2 was a 85-year-old man, admitted to Intensive Care Unit, where he was intubated. He had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from a nasopharyngeal swab two days before. A chest RX showed bilateral atypical pneumonia. After seven days, a cutaneous reddening involving trunk, upper limbs, neck and face developed, configuring a sub-erythroderma. Histological evaluations displayed edema in the papillary and superficial reticular dermis, and a perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate in the superficial dermis. The patient was treated with hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, lopinavir-ritonavir and tocilizumab. Sub-erythroderma as well as respiratory symptoms gradually improved until healing. Conclusions: The endothelial swelling detected in the Case 1 could be a morphological expression of SARS-CoV-2-induced endothelial dysfunction. We hypothesize that cutaneous damage could be initiated by endothelial dysfunction, caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection of endothelial cells or induced by immune system activation. The disruption of endothelial integrity could enhance microvascular permeability, extravasation of inflammatory cells and cytokines, with cutaneous injury. The Case 2 developed a sub-erythroderma associated with COVID-19, and a non-specific chronic dermatitis was detected at histological level. We speculate that a purpuric rash could represent the cutaneous sign of a more severe coagulopathy, as highlighted histologically by vascular abnormalities, while a sub-erythroderma could be expression of viral hematogenous spreading, inducing a non-specific chronic dermatitis.