bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Decreased MicroRNA-155 in Behcet’s disease leads to defective control of autophagy thereby stimulating excessive proinflammatory cytokine production
Authors: Liang Liang , Zhou Qingyun , Feng Lujia , Kijlstra Aize , Yang Peizeng 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: Earlier we reported that the microRNA (miR)-155 expression in dendritic cells (DCs) from Behcet’s disease (BD) patients was decreased and affected cytokine production of DCs. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms whereby miR-155 regulates cytokine production by DCs.Methods: The formation of autophagosomes in DCs was detected by transmission electron microscopy. Western blotting was used to detect the protein levels of LC3, Beclin-1, P62, p-mTOR and p-Akt in DCs. TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β expression were investigated by ELISA. MiR-155 mimics were transfected to DCs to evaluate its effects on autophagy and cytokine production. RNA interference was used to downregulate the expression of TAB2.Results: The formation of autophagosomes was found in DCs of active BD patients. The expressions of LC3-Ⅱ, Beclin-1, P62, IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α were significantly increased in DCs of active BD patients compared to that of healthy controls. The autophagy promoter (3-MA) and inhibitor (rapamycin) significantly decreased or increased the expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β by DCs. The expression of LC3-Ⅱand Beclin-1 were significantly increased, but the expression of P62 proteins was decreased in DCs transfected with miR-155 mimics or after TAB2 was downregulated. The expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β were decreased in DCs after miR-155 was upregulated or TAB2 was downregulated. The ratios of p-Akt/Akt and p-mTOR/mTOR were decreased in DCs after miR-155 was upregulated.Conclusions: These results suggest that miR-155 affects the production of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β by DCs through activation of the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and by affecting the process of autophagy.
Early Detection Of Deep Vein Thrombosis In Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019: Who to Screen and Who not to with Doppler Ultrasound?
Authors: Ierardi Anna Maria , Coppola Andrea , Fusco Stefano , Stellato Elvira , Aliberti Stefano , Andrisani Maria Carmela , Vespro Valentina , Arrichiello Antonio , Panigada Mauro , Monzani Valter , Grasselli Giacomo , Venturini Massimo , Rehani Bhavya , Peyvandi Flora , Pesenti Antonio , Blasi Francesco , Carrafiello Gianpaolo 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
BACKGROUND. Aim of the study is to evaluate the incidence of DVT in COVID-19 patients and its correlation with the severity of the disease and with clinical and laboratory findings.METHODS. 234 symptomatic patients with COVID-19, diagnosed according to the World Health Organization guidelines, were included in the study. The severity of the disease was classified as moderate, severe and critical. Doppler ultrasound (DUS) was performed in all patients. DUS findings, clinical, laboratory’s and therapeutic variables were investigated by contingency tables, Pearson chi square test and by Student T test and Fisher's exact test. ROC curve analysis was applied to study significant continuous variables.RESULTS. Overall incidence of DVT was 10.7% (25/234): 1.6% (1/60) among moderate cases, 13.8% (24/174) in severely and critically ill patients. Prolonged bedrest and intensive care unit admission were significantly associated with the presence of DVT (19.7%). Fraction of inspired oxygen, P/F ratio, respiratory rate, heparin administration, D-dimer, IL-6, ferritin and CRP showed correlation with DVT. CONCLUSIONS. DUS may be considered a useful and valid tool for early identification of DVT. In less severely affected patients, DUS as screening of DVT might be unnecessary. High rate of DVT found in severe patients and its correlation with respiratory parameters and some significant laboratory findings suggests that these can be used as a screening tool for patients who should be getting DUS.
Effect of Untreated Oil Palm Fruit Fibre on the Engineering Properties of Road Construction Earth Materials
Authors: Nwakaire Chidozie Maduabuchukwu , Evaristus Ukomadu Chidebele , Elijah Onu Chijioke 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
This study first evaluated the engineering properties of lateritic soil samples from three selected locations in South Eastern Nigeria (Nawfia, Okpuno, and Ugwuoba). The effect of Oil Palm Fruit Fibre (OPFF) on the properties of these soil materials was investigated, with special emphasis on road construction applicability. The samples were subjected to different tests to ascertain their index properties. Varying proportions of OPFF from 0.5% to 3% were incorporated into the soil samples and the effects were observed based on compaction and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) results. The control samples without inclusion of OPFF achieved the highest Maximum Dry Densities (MDD), the MDDs reduced linearly as the OPFF content increased. Consequently, the CBR values decreased with increase in OPFF. The reduction in MDD for the Nawfia samples ranged from 0.29% to 5.31% as the OPFF increased from 0.5% to 3%. The MDD of the Okpuno sample also reduced within the range of 1.25% to 9.51% whereas the reduction for the Ugwuoba soil is within the range of 1.55% and 9.79%. With the inclusion of the OPFF, there was up to 75% to 83% drop in CBR values of the soil rendering them very unsuitable for pavement subgrade. It was concluded that the presence of fibre depreciated the engineering properties of the earth materials. Direct application of OPFF in any part of road pavement has been dissuaded.
The C-reactive protein to albumin ratio is a novel prognostic factor in patients with stable coronary artery disease following percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Zou Yang , Zhong Mingchun , Zeng Hui , Chen Xiaohua , Sheng Guotai 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background

Previous studies have shown that both C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin (Alb) are the prognostic factors of cardiovascular. However, the prognostic value of C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR) in patients with stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) is unclear.
Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study that continuously enrolled 204 patients with newly diagnosed SCAD between October 2014 and October 2017; the mean follow-up time was 793.75 ± 430.26 days. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to evaluate the prognostic value of CAR in patients with SCAD.
Results

In the Kaplan–Meier analysis, the long-term MACE (major adverse cardiac events) free survival rate of patients with high CAR levels decreased significantly (P = 0.015). Of the note, after adjusting for other covariates in multivariate analysis, CAR was still independently positively correlated with poor prognosis in SCAD patients (HR = 1.03, 95% CI:1.01–1.06, P = 0.02, P for trend = 0.024). Additionally, we identified a nonlinear association between CAR and poor prognosis of SCAD by the generalized additive model (GAM). Then, through the two-piecewise linear regression model, we calculated that the inflection point of CAR was 3.933 (log-likelihood ratio test P = 0.02). When CAR ≤ 3.933, there was a positive correlation between CAR and MACE in patients with SCAD (HR:1.48, 95% CI:1.10–1.99, P = 0.009). While on the right hand of the inflection point (CAR > 3.933), the positive correlation between the two tends to be saturated (HR:1.01, 95% CI:0.97–1.05, P = 0.64).
Conclusions

This study indicated an association between higher CAR levels and increased risk of MACE in patients with SCAD for the first time, and measurement of CAR at admission may be a valuable predictor of the prognostic outcome in patients with SCAD treated by the percutaneous coronary intervention.
Exploration to the Application of Hybird Technology in Special Types of Congenital Heart Diseases in Children
Authors: Liu Yuhang , Wang Ning , Wen Ping 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background

Hybrid technology has become a hot topic in cardiovascular surgery,has been widely used in the minimally invasive closure of simple coronary heart diseases (CHDs). For some children with special CHDs, it is still impossible to avoid the huge trauma caused by cardiopulmonary bypass. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility、safety and efficacy of hybrid technology in the treatment of several specific CHDs.
Methods

A total of 29 children with specific CHDs hospitalised in the Cardiac Surgery Department of Dalian Children’s Hospital from July 2014 to June 2019 were enrolled. There were 2 cases of right coronary artery-right ventricular fistula, 17 cases of neonatal critical pulmonary stenosis (CPS), 9 cases of neonatal pulmonary atresia-intact ventricular septum (PA/IVS), and 1 case of giant aortopulmonary window (APW). All of them underwent surgical treatment with hybrid technology guided by transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The TEE enabled immediate evaluation of the surgical curative effect. Further chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram were performed in the outpatient department after discharge.
Results

The surgical treatment with hybrid technology was smooth except that 1 CPS patient was converted to open-heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) due to a torn right ventricular outflow tract after balloon dilatation. No complication, such as wound or intracardiac infection, arrhythmia or pericardial effusion occurred. No children have been lost to follow-up and the investigation results and prognosis remain satisfactory.
Conclusions

the use of hybrid technology is a safe and effective alternative therapy for specific paediatric CHD cases. It has significant advantages in alleviating trauma and reducing medical costs and, therefore, has good prospects for broad application in the future.
Job Satisfaction and Self-Perceived Health Status among Primary Care Providers in China
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhu Jingmin , Liang Hailun 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background: Healthcare providers’ health and safety can influence the quality of patient care. The attitude towards work, either satisfaction or dissatisfaction, could influence the way in which people perceive their health status. To check this hypothesis, some studies have shown an association between healthcare providers’ health status and job satisfaction. The present study examined the associations between self-perceived health status and job satisfaction among primary care providers in China, and the moderating effect of job type.Methods: Data were collected by using questionnaire survey among Chinese primary care providers, who work for general practice teams (GPTs). The GPT members’ self-perceived health, job satisfaction, and job type were evaluated, where job satisfaction comprised work, promotion and training, and work environment. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed.Findings: Of the 536 participants, 48.51% reported good physical health, and 55.78% reported good mental health. Participants reported being moderately satisfied with their job. Self-perceived physical and mental health were significantly and positively associated with job satisfaction in similar magnitudes. Promotion and training satisfaction were more strongly associated with physical health, whereas work environment had the strongest association with mental health. Job type moderated this association, wherein the association was significant only for non-general practitioners (non-GPs).Conclusion: Primary care providers’ job satisfaction is significantly associated with their self-perceived health. Actions are needed to increase their job satisfaction and therefore to improve their health. Meanwhile, further research into GPs’ health determinants is needed.
A survival analysis of COVID-19 in the Mexican population
Authors: Salinas-Escudero Guillermo , Carrillo-Vega María Fernanda , Granados-García Víctor , Martínez-Valverde Silvia , Toledano-Toledano Filiberto , Garduño-Espinosa Juan 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background. At present, the Americas region contributes to the largest number of cases of COVID-19 worldwide. In this area, Mexico is in third place respecting deaths (20,781 total deaths), rate that may be explained by the high proportion of the population over 50 years and the rate of chronic diseases. The aim of the present work was estimate the risk factors associated with the death rate, considering the time between symptoms onset and the death occurrence, in the Mexican population. Methods. Information of all the confirmed cases for COVID-19 reported on the public dataset released by the Epidemiological Surveillance System for Viral Respiratory Diseases of the Mexican Ministry of Health was analyzed. Kapplan-Meier curves were plotted, and a Cox proportional hazard model was constructed. Results. The analysis included 16,752 registries of confirmed cases of COVID-19 with mean age 46.55±15.55 years; 58.02% (n=9719) men and 9.37% (n=1,569) died. Men (H.R. 1.21, p<0.01, 95% C.I. 1.09-1.35), older age (H.R. 8.24, p<0.01, 95% C.I. 4.22-16.10), CKD (H.R. 1.85, p<0.01, 95% C.I. 1.51-2.25), pneumonia (H.R. 2.07, p<0.01, 95% C.I. 1.81-2.38), hospitalization and ICU admissions (H.R. 5.86, p<0.01, 95% C.I. 4.81-7.14, and H.R. 1.32, p<0.01, 95% C.I. 1.12-1.55, respectively), intubation (H.R. 2.93, p<0.01, 95% C.I. 2.50-3.45) and health care in public health services (more than twice the risk, p<0.01), were independent factors increasing the risk of death due to COVID-19. Conclusions. The risk of dying at any time during follow-up was especially higher in men, individuals at the older age groups, with chronic kidney disease and people hospitalized in the public health services.
Cell-Mimicking Nanodecoys Protect Lung Cells by Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Proteins
Authors: Li Zhenhua , Dinh Phuong-Uyen C. , Popowski Kristen D. , Lutz Halle , Wang Zhenzhen , Zhu Dashuai , Hu Shiqi , Lobo Jason , Cheng Ke 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has grown into a global pandemic, with no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines are yet approved. The viral receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), has been demonstrated to play an integral role in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2, necessary for host cell viral entry. Inspired by this, we synthesized ACE2 nanodecoys from human lung spheroid cells (LSCs) capable of binding the Spike protein as a potential neutralization agent for SARS-CoV-2. Our results show LSC-nanodecoys has a high affinity and neutralization efficiency to both spike protein and chemically synthesized SARS-CoV-2 mimics. In addition, non-invasive inhalation therapy in mice showed successful delivery of the nanodecoy to the lungs, as well as in-vivo retention of the nanodecoys over 72 hours after a single administration. Furthermore, inhalation of nanodecoy accelerated the clearance of SARS-CoV-2 mimics from the lung and did not cause toxicity.
In silico Drug Repurposing to combat COVID-19 based on Pharmacogenomics of Patient Transcriptomic Data
Authors: Das Shaoli , Camphausen Kevin , Shankavaram Uma 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
The ongoing global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to affect a growing number of populations in different parts of the world. In the current situation, drug repurposing is a viable strategy to combat COVID-19. The drugs targeting the host receptors that interact with SARS-CoV-2 are possible candidates. However, assessment of their effectiveness in COVID-19 patients is necessary before prioritizing them for further study. We attempted to shortlist the candidate drugs using an in-silico approach. First, we analysed two published transcriptomic data sets of COVID-19- and SARS-infected patients compared to healthy individuals to find the key pathways altered after infection. Then, using publicly available drug perturbational data sets in human cell lines from the Broad Institute Connectivity Map (CMAP), we assessed the effects of the approved drugs on the altered pathways. We also used the available pharmacogenomic data sets from the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) portal to assess the effects of the altered pathways on resistance or sensitivity to the drugs in human cell lines. Our analysis identified many candidate drugs, some of which are already being investigated for treatment of COVID-19 and can serve as a basis for prioritizing additional viable candidate drugs for COVID-19.
Penguasaan Konsep dan Retensi melalui Pogil (Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning) Bermuatan Multiple Level Representation
Authors: Khulliyah Khulliyah , Fadlan Andi 
Published: June 2020

<em>Rendahnya hasil belajar peserta didik pada materi hidrolisis khususnya pada level mikroskopik dan proses pembelajaran yang masih menggunakan metode pembelajaran konvesional di MA Uswatun Hasanah. Melalui model POGIL (Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning) bermuatan Multiple Level Representation diharapkan dapat mengetahui tingkat penguasaan konsep dan retensi peserta didik MA Uswatun Hasanah pada materi hidrolis. Data penelitian diperoleh dengan metode dokumentasi untuk mendapatkan daftar nama-nama peserta didik kelas XI jurusan IPA MA Uswatun Hasanah dan metode tes untuk memperoleh data hasil belajar peserta didik yang diperoleh dari nilai pre-test, post-test, dan retest. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa pembelajaran melalui model POGIL bermuatan Multiple Level Representation dapat meningkatkan tingkat penguasaan konsep dan retensi peserta didik kelas XI IPA MA Uswatun Hasanah. Terdapat 30% peserta didik mengalami peningkatan penguasaan konsep kategori tinggi, 40% pada kategori sedang, dan 30% pada kategori rendah. Adapun tingkat retensi peserta didik adalah 92,7% yang tergolong tinggi. </em>
QSAR Studies of Sulfonamide Hydroxamates Derivatives as MMP-2 Inhibitors Topomer CoMFA and Molecular Docking
Authors: Tong Jian-Bo , Yi Feng , Luo Ding , Wang Tian-Hao 
Published: June 2020

Background:
In recent years, cancer has become the main cause of death and it is a serious
threat to human health, so the development of new, selective and safe anticancer drugs is still
the focus of medical research. Matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) has been determined to play an
important role in the regulation of tumor angiogenesis, which is closely related to the development
of the tumor. Therefore, MMP-2 is considered as a promising target for tumor therapy. In this study,
Tomper comparative molecular field analysis (Topomer CoMFA) and molecular docking were used
to investigate the important role of sulfonamide hydroxamate derivatives, an inhibitor of MMP-2, in
the inhibition of angiogenesis.

Methods:
Quantitative structure active relationship (QSAR) models of 35 sulfonamide hydroxamate
derivatives with inhibitory MMPs were developed. The quantitative structure-activity relationship
(QSAR) model was built by using Topomer comparative molecular field analysis (Topomer CoMFA)
technique.

Results and Conclusion:
The results show that the cross-validated q2
value of the Topomer CoMFA
model is 0.881 and the non-cross-validated r2
value is 0.967. The results show that the model is
reasonable and reliable, and has good prediction ability. Molecular docking studies were used to
find the actual conformations of chemicals in active sites of cancer protease, as well as the binding
mode pattern to the binding site in MMP-2. The information provided by the 3D-QSAR model and
molecular docking may lead to a better understanding of the structural requirements of 35 sulfonamide
hydroxamate derivatives and help to design potential anti-cancer protease inhibitor molecules.

Conclusion:
Thirty-five analogs were used in the 3D-QSAR study. Topomer CoMFA 3D-QSAR
method was used to build the model, and the model was well predicted and statistically validated.
The results of 3D-QSAR and molecular docking analysis provide theoretical guidance for the synthesis
of new MMP-2 inhibitors.
In vitro Effect of Chlorquine and Picroliv on Plasmodium Berghei Induced Alterations in the Activity of Adenosine Triphosphatase, Aryl Hyrocarbon Hydroxylase Enzymes and Malondialdehyde in Spleen Explant Culture
Authors: Trivedi Anchal , Misra Aparna , Sarkar Esha , Balapure Anil K. 
Published: June 2020

Background:
In recent years, great progress has been made in reducing the high level of
malaria suffering worldwide. There is a great need to evaluate drug resistance reversers and consider
new medicines against malaria. There are many approaches to the development of antimalarial
drugs. Specific concerns must be taken into account in these approaches, in particular the requirement
for inexpensive and simple new therapies and the need to limit drug discovery expenses. Important
ongoing efforts are the optimisation of treatment with available medications, including the
use of combination therapy, the production of analogs of known agents and the identification of natural
products, the use of compounds originally developed against other diseases, the assessment of
overcoming drug resistance and the consideration of new therapeutic targets. Liver and spleen are
the important organs which are directly associated with malarial complications.

Aim:
An analysis of the Activity of Adenosine Triphosphatase, Aryl Hyrocarbon Hydroxylase Enzymes
and Malondialdehyde in spleen Explant Culture.

Objective:
To determine in vitro effectof Chlorquine and Picroliv on Plasmodium Berghei induced
alterations in the Activity of Adenosine Triphosphatase, Aryl Hyrocarbon Hydroxylase Enzymes
and Malondialdehyde in spleen Explant Culture.

Result:
Splenomegalyis isone of the three main diagnostic parameters of malaria infection besides
fever and anaemia. Many enzymes present in the liver and spleen may also be altered or liberated
under different pathological conditions. Enzymes (ATPase, ALP&GST) and the level of protein,
Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was found to increase in the liver and spleen explants during
malarial infection. In the liver and spleen derived from parasitized CQ treated animals, the activity
of all the above enzymes (ATPase, ALP&GST) and the level of protein & MDA of liver/spleen reversed
towards the normal for all the 4 or 3 days of incubations. Picroliv efficacy decreased with the
increment of parasitaemia and at 60% parasitaemia.

Conclusion:
Alkalinephosphatase (ALP) was found to increase with increasing parasitaemia. After
the addition of Picroliv to the medium, a decrement in the activity was observed up to day 4 of culture.
A similar positive effect of Picroliv was observed on the ATPase and ALP activity of spleen
explants. DNA and protein contents also increased in the parasitized liver cultured in the presence
of picroliv. On the contrary, in the spleen explants DNA, protein and MDA content were found to
decrease after Picroliv supplementation to the culture medium.
Some Methods for Constructing Infinite Families of Quasi-Strongly Regular Graphs
Authors: Shirdel Gholam Hassan , Asgari Adel 
Published: June 2020

:
In this article, we examined some method of constructing infinite families of semi-strongly regular graphs, Also we obtained a necessary condition for the composition of several graphs to be semi-strongly regular graphs, and using
it, we have constructed some infinite families of semi-strongly regular graphs, Also by using the Cartesian product of two
graphs, we have constructed some infinite families of semi-strongly regular graphs.