bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In silico Design of a Novel Serotype Independent Vaccine Against Streptococcus pneumoniae Based on B-cell Epitope Regions of Fibronectin Binding Protein, Choline Binding Protein D, and D-alanyl-D-alanine Carboxypeptidase
Authors: Tarahomjoo Shirin , Ghaderi Soheila 
Published: August 2018

Background:Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) in the past, have been constructed via chemical coupling of pneumococcal capsules to immunogenic carrier proteins. The PCVs implementation in developing countries was prevented by their high manufacturing costs. This issue can be overcome via the development of protein-based vaccines against pneumococci. Choline binding protein D (CBPD), fibronectin binding protein (FBP), and D-alanyl-D-alanine-carboxy peptidase (DDCP) were already identified as pneumococcal surface proteins able to elicit protection against S. pneumoniae serotype 19F.Methods:As antibody responses are necessary for protection against pneumococci, the aim of this study is, therefore, to design computationally a chimeric pneumococcal vaccine using B-cell epitope regions of CBPD, FBP, and DDCP. These regions were determined using results of Bepipred, BCPreds and CBTope programs. The most probable immunoprotective B-cell epitope region (MIBR) of each protein was identified using VaxiJen. MIBRs were highly conserved in common S. pneumoniae serotypes causing invasive pneumococcal disease worldwide. The conserved MIBRs were joined together using either flexible (Gly4Ser)2 linker or the rigid AspProArgValProSerSer linker to form antigens with molecular weights of 22.53 kDa and 22.74 kDa, respectively.Results and Discussion:The codon optimization was done for the chimeric antigens. Analysis of mRNAs secondary structures revealed no stable hairpins at 5&#039; ends that could interfere with antigen expression. The 3D model of the antigen possessing the flexible linker contained alpha helix, whereas several beta sheets were observed in the tertiary structure of the antigen possessing the rigid linker and it did not have any alpha helixes. Moreover, the antigen-containing the rigid linker included a beta sheet in the C-terminus of DDCP MIBR, which showed 60% residue identity to the beta sheet in the same region of the partial structure of DDCP obtained from protein data bank. However, the other antigen did not contain any similar structural elements in DDCP MIBR.Conclusion:In silico analyses of physicochemical properties indicated that inclusion of the rigid linker instead of the flexible linker resulted in better stability of the chimeric antigen. In addition, using the rigid linker increased the probability of the protein soluble expression in Escherichia coli. Therefore, the chimeric antigen composed of conserved MIBRs joining via the rigid linker is predicted to be a suitable vaccine candidate, which could elicit protection against common pneumococcal serotypes.
In Silico Design of New B-Raf Kinase Type-II Inhibitors Through Combined Molecular Modeling Studies
Authors: Zhou Weineng , Lu Shuai , Zhang Yanmin , Yin Lingfeng , Zhu Lu , Zhao Junnan , Lu Tao , Chen Yadong , Liu Haichun 
Published: August 2018

Background:B-Raf has become an important and exciting therapeutic cancer target.Methods:In the present work, molecular modeling protocols like molecular docking, MM/GBSA calculations, 3D-QSAR and binding site detection were performed on a dataset of 41 Type II inhibitors. Molecular docking was applied to explore the detailed binding process between the inhibitors and B-Raf kinase. Furthermore, the good linear relationships between G-Scores and MM/GBSA calculated and the experimental activity were shown. The satisfactory CoMFA and CoMSIA were constructed based on the conformations obtained by molecular docking.Results:The key structural requirements for increasing biological activity were verified by analyzing 3D contour maps of the 3D-QSAR models. FTMap and SiteMap were also used to detect the more efficient active binding site.Conclusion:New inhibitors were synthesized and the biological activities were evaluated, the results further validated our design strategy.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of New Hydrazide-hydrazones and Their Pd(II) Complexes
Authors: Kocyigit-Kaymakcioglu Bedia , Yazici Senem Sinem , Tok Fatih , Dikmen Miriş , Engür Selin , Oruc-Emre Emine Elçin , Iyidogan Aysegul 
Published: August 2018

Background:
Hydrazones, one of the important classes of organic molecules, are pharmaceutical
agents comprising –CO-NH-N=CH- group in the structure therefore and exhibiting significant
biological activity.

Methods:
5-Chloro-N’-[(substituted)methylidene] pyrazine-2-carbohydrazide (3a-g) and their Pd(II)
complexes (4a-h) were synthesized and investigated in vitro anticancer activity on A549, Caco2 cancer
and normal 3T3 fibroblast cell lines, using the MTT assay.

Results:
Anticancer activity screening results revealed that some compounds showed remarkable cytotoxic
effect. Among them, 5-chloro-N'-[(4-hydroxyphenyl)methylidene] pyrazine-2-carbohydrazide
(3c) displayed higher cytotoxic activity against A549 cancer cell line than the reference drug cisplatin.

Conclusion:
Compound 3c showed high cytotoxic activity against A549 cancer cell line but it showed
low cytotoxic effect against normal 3T3 fibroblast cell line. Antiproliferative and antimetastatic effects
of 3c were determined by the real-time monitoring of cell proliferative system (RTCA DP). The cell
proliferation, metastatic and invasive activities of A549 cells were decreased due to increased concentration
of 3c.
Synthesis and Anti-Tumor Activity Evaluation of Novel 7-Fluoro-4-(1- Piperazinyl) Quinolines
Authors: Liu Dan , Xue Aiqi , Liu Zhixin , Zhang Yi , Peng Penghui , Wang Haifeng 
Published: August 2018

Background:
Three series of new 7-fluoro-4-(1-piperazinyl) quinolines (I1~I6, II1~II2 and
IV1~IV4) were synthesized. Their anti-tumor activity was evaluated in vitro against three human
carcinoma cell lines, namely SGC-7901 cells, BEL-7402 cells and A549 cells expressing high levels of
EGFR by Methyl Thiazolyl Terazolium (MTT) assay.

Methods:
Three series of quinoline derivatives were synthesized, characterized and evaluated for their
in vitro anti-tumor activities.

Results and Discussion:
Structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by spectral
analysis. The preliminary bioassay indicated that compounds I1, I10 and II1 exhibited better anti-tumor
activity than the rest of the target compounds and gefitinib against A549 cell based assay, which
demonstrated that compounds I1, I10 and II1 are potential agents for cancer therapy. Results suggested
that the substitutes on piperazinyl influenced anti-tumor activities remarkably.

Conclusion:
These results are useful for discovering more potent novel anti-tumor compounds and
further studies are ongoing.
The Effects of Tempeh Gembus, an Indonesian Fermented Food, on Lipid Profiles in Women with Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Afifah Diana Nur , Nabilah Nida , Supraba Galuh Tamarasani , Pratiwi Syafira Noor , Nuryanto  , Sulchan Mohammad 
Published: August 2018

Background:
Hyperlipidemia is the major precursor of lipid-related diseases. Consumption
of high fiber foods may decrease lipid profiles. The fiber content in tempeh gembus is three times
higher than regular tempeh.

Objective:
This study was conducted to investigate the effect of tempeh gembus on lipid profiles in
women with hyperlipidemia.

Methods:
This research used the quasi-experimental design with nonequivalent control group design.
Subjects were 41 women with hyperlipidemia, classified into 3 groups: control group, treatment group
1 given 103 g/day tempeh gembus, and treatment group 2 given 206 g/day tempeh gembus for 14 days.
All of the groups received nutrition education. Total cholesterol and HDL-C were determined by
CHOD-PAP method, triglyceride determined by enzymatic GPO-PAP method after subjects had been
fasting for approximately 10 hours. LDL-C was calculated by Friedewald equation.

Results:
These results showed that consumption of tempeh gembus 103 g/day and 206 g/day decreased
LDL-C 27.9% and 30.9% as well as decreased total cholesterol 17.7% and 19.8% respectively. However,
HDL-C increased 3.91% and 8.79% and triglyceride increased 2.3% and 3.1%. Tempeh gembus
given 206 g/day was more effective to decrease total cholesterol and LDL-C than 103 g/day.

Conclusion:
Increasing tempeh gembus consumption in women with hyperlipidemia should be addressed
to decrease LDL-C and total cholesterol.
Nutrition Components of Dry Noodles From Substitution of Aloe vera Skin Extract and Maize’s Sprout Flour
Authors: Narsih  , Agato  
Published: August 2018

Background:
The dried noodles produced from maize raw materials soaked for 24 hours
were germinated for 36 hours and the Aloe vera skin extracted at 80°C for 60 minutes showed high
nutrients, proving that this food product has functional properties.

Objective:
To check the quality of dry noodles produced from the combination of maize sprout flour
and Aloe vera skin extract.

Subject and Methods:
The materials used were maize and Aloe vera skin. Maize was soaked for 24
hours and germinated for 36 hours and the Aloe vera skin was extracted at 80°C for 60 minutes. The
maize sprouts obtained were then dried and floured. Then, Aloe vera skin extract was added, followed
by other noodle-forming materials for further processing of dried noodles. The nutrient components
were analyzed in the produced noodles.

Results:
The maize sprout flour had 11.35% protein, protein digestibility 84.84%, starch 37.63%,
phytate compound 131.09 mg/g, organic compounds 11 mg/g, and functional compounds 22 mg/g,
while the noodle product had elongation of 96.15%, swelling index of 19.64%, tensile strength of
2.01 Nmm, 18 organic acids compounds (lactate, oxalate, succinic, malic, mevalonic, p coumaric,
ascorbate, ferulic, panthotenic, myristic, hexadecanoic, palmitic, α-linoleic, linoleic acid, oleic, stearate,
isobehenate and folic) and 23 functional groups in the range 527.29 - 3354.74 cm-1.

Conclusion:
Dry noodles produced from Aloe vera skin extract and maize sprout flour have functional
properties.
The Role of Atrial Fibrosis Detected by Delayed - Enhancement MRI in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Kis Zsuzsanna , Hendriks Astrid Amanda , Muka Taulant , Bramer Wichor M. , Kovacs Istvan , Szili-Torok Tamas 
Published: August 2018

Introduction:
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is associated with remodeling of the atrial tissue,
which leads to fibrosis that can contribute to the initiation and maintenance of AF. Delayed-
Enhanced Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (DE-CMR) imaging for atrial wall fibrosis detection was
used in several studies to guide AF ablation. The aim of present study was to systematically review
the literature on the role of atrial fibrosis detected by DE-CMR imaging on AF ablation outcome.

Methods:
Eight bibliographic electronic databases were searched to identify all published relevant
studies until 21st of March, 2016. Search of the scientific literature was performed for studies describing
DE-CMR imaging on atrial fibrosis in AF patients underwent Pulmonary Vein Isolation
(PVI).

Results:
Of the 763 citations reviewed for eligibility, 5 articles (enrolling a total of 1040 patients)
were included into the final analysis. The overall recurrence of AF ranged from 24.4 - 40.9% with
median follow-up of 324 to 540 days after PVI. With less than 5-10% fibrosis in the atrial wall
there was a maximum of 10% recurrence of AF after ablation. With more than 35% fibrosis in the
atrial wall there was 86% recurrence of AF after ablation.

Conclusion:
Our analysis suggests that more extensive left atrial wall fibrosis prior ablation predicts
the higher arrhythmia recurrence rate after PVI. The DE-CMR imaging modality seems to be
a useful method for identifying the ideal candidate for catheter ablation. Our findings encourage
wider usage of DE-CMR in distinct AF patients in a pre-ablation setting.
A New Relational Database Including Clinical Data and Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Findings in Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Megna Rosario , Petretta Mario , Alfano Bruno , Cantoni Valeria , Green Roberta , Daniele Stefania , Acampa Wanda , Nappi Carmela , Gaudieri Valeria , Assante Roberta , Zampella Emilia , Mazziotti Emanuela , Mannarino Teresa , Buongiorno Pietro , Cuocolo Alberto 
Published: August 2018

Background:
The aim of this study was to test a relational database including clinical
data and imaging findings in a large cohort of subjects with suspected or known Coronary Artery
Disease (CAD) undergoing stress single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging.

Methods:
We developed a relational database including clinical and imaging data of 7995 subjects
with suspected or known CAD. The software system was implemented by PostgreSQL 9.2, an open
source object-relational database, and managed from remote by pgAdmin III. Data were arranged according to a logic of aggregation and stored in a schema with twelve tables. Statistical software was
connected to the database directly downloading data from server to local personal computer.

Results:
There was no problem or anomaly for database implementation and user connections to
the database. The epidemiological analysis performed on data stored in the database demonstrated
abnormal SPECT findings in 46% of male subjects and 19% of female subjects. Imaging findings
suggest that the use of SPECT imaging in our laboratory is appropriate.

Conclusion:
The development of a relational database provides a free software tool for the storage
and management of data in line with the current standard.
Image Based Brain Segmentation: From Multi-Atlas Fusion to Deep Learning
Authors: Lin Xiangbo , Li Xiaoxi 
Published: August 2018

Background:
This review aims to identify the development of the algorithms for brain
tissue and structure segmentation in MRI images.

Discussion:
Starting from the results of the Grand Challenges on brain tissue and structure segmentation
held in Medical Image Computing and Computer-Assisted Intervention (MICCAI), this
review analyses the development of the algorithms and discusses the tendency from multi-atlas label
fusion to deep learning. The intrinsic characteristics of the winners’ algorithms on the Grand
Challenges from the year 2012 to 2018 are analyzed and the results are compared carefully.

Conclusion:
Although deep learning has got higher rankings in the challenge, it has not yet met the
expectations in terms of accuracy. More effective and specialized work should be done in the future.
Chemical Composition and In Vitro Neuroprotective Activity of Fibre-Type Cannabis sativa L. (Hemp)
Authors: Corsi Lorenzo , Pellati Federica , Brighenti Virginia , Plessi Nicolò , Benvenuti Stefania 
Published: August 2018

Background:
Fibre-type Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) usually contains cannabidiolic acid and
cannabidiol as the main non-psychoactive cannabinoids. Even though there is evidence of the neuroprotective
activity of pure cannabidiol, no in vitro studies have reported so far the role of hemp extracts on
neuroprotection. The objective of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of hemp extracts
in in vitro cellular models of neurotoxicity.

Methods:
One extract was obtained from raw hemp inflorescences, while the other was prepared from
the same plant material submitted to a decarboxylation process. The composition of both these extracts
was evaluated by HPLC-UV/DAD. Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y and microglial BV-2 cell lines
treated with rotenone were selected as the model of neurodegeneration. The neuroprotection of hemp
extracts was assessed also in serum-free conditions both in the presence and in the absence of rotenone
as the toxic agent by using the same cell lines. The neuroprotective potential of cannabidiol was tested
in parallel.

Results:
The decarboxylated hemp extract possesses a mild neuroprotective activity on BV-2 cells
treated with rotenone, higher than that of pure cannabidiol. As regards serum-free experiments, the nondecarboxylated
hemp extract was the most effective neuroprotective agent toward SH-SY5Y cells,
while BV-2 cells were better protected from the toxic insult by the decarboxylated extract and cannabidiol.

Conclusion:
Both hemp extracts and pure cannabidiol displayed a moderate neuroprotective activity in
the neurotoxicity models considered in this study; in addition, they showed a trophic effect on SHSY5Y
cells.
Role of Green Silver Nanoparticles in the Inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli
Authors: Sinha Anvesha , Manjhi Jayanand 
Published: August 2018

Background:The quandary of antimicrobial resistance is rapidly becoming a cause for global concern. Meanwhile, green biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles is being extensively studied for their antibacterial properties. However, in the dearth of appropriate and substantial evidence, the development of Green Silver Nanoparticles (GSNPs) as the antibacterial drug is impeded.Objective:The present study aims at surfacing the mechanism behind the inhibitory actions of GSNPs against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.Methods:Silver nanoparticles were fabricated using the peels of Citrus Sinensis and Punica granatum and characterized using UV-Vis Spectrophotometer, XRD, FTIR, SEM and TEM. The GSNPs were further scrutinized for their antibacterial properties against Gran negative Escherichia coli and grampositive Listeria monocytogenes and confirmed using FC analysis. Further multiple parameters were investigated for deciphering the mechanism of antibacterial action.Results:The results reveal the fabrication of 14-60 nm polydispersed GSNPs having 96% inhibition potential against both the test bacteria. Deposition of GSNPs on the bacterial surface resulting in pit formation in the bacterial cell wall and membrane causing leaking of cellular components and deactivation of bacterial enzymes were observed in the present study.Conclusion:The study proves that contrary to earlier investigations, GSNPs prepared using orange and pomegranate peels are effective against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria and may thus be used for the development of antibacterial therapies, subjected to further investigation.
The Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on Vigna mungo L. Seedling Growth and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Pavani Kantabathini Venkata , Beulah Mallula , Sai Poojitha Govinda Udayar 
Published: August 2018

Aim:The purpose of this study was to test the phytotoxicity effect of ZnONPs on Vigna mungo L. seedling growth and antioxidant activity.Methods:Vigna mungo L. Seeds were treated with to a wide range of ZnO NPs ranging 5 to25mg/100ml for 8hours. Vigna mungo seeds that were soaked in ZnO NPs solution were sown in pots (20 cm × 40 cm) filled with red soil and a layer of coco peat. The effect of ZnO NPs on morphological, biochemical and antioxidant activity in Vigna mungo L. plants was investigated after 15,30,45 and 60 days.Results:The impact of ZnO NPs on plant growth characteristics and biochemical changes in Vigna mungo L. plants was investigated after 15,30,45 and 60 days. The ZnONPs exposure significantly enhanced germination percentage by 111.3% but root length (75.25%), shoot length (89.81%), number of leaves (91.66%), length of leaves (76%), width of leaves (67.27%), fresh weight of plant (27.96%) and dry weight of plant (28.23%) decreased in the treated plants after 60 days exposure to 25mg/100ml compared to the untreated control. Interestingly, treated plants after 60 days exposure to 25mg/100ml increased significantly the chlorophyll (115.0%), reducing sugars (244.4%), total sugars (212.72%) protein (181.8%). Treatment to Vigna mungo L. seeds with ZnONPs has been found to induce the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as Guaiacol peroxidase, Glutathione Reductase, Catalase and increase in the ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide contents. TEM images revealed that the aggregated ZnO NPs to be deposited inside the seed.Conclusion:Vigna mungo seeds treated with different concentrations of ZnO NPs showed decreased root growth and increased germination index, shoot and leaf growth. There was a significant change in Glutathione reductase, Guaiacol peroxidase and Catalase activity and ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide of Vigna mungo exposed to ZnONPs. Aggregated nanoparticles penetration into the intracellular region of the seed was observed.A complete study on the toxic effects of ZnO NPs can help significantly in the safe disposal of ENPs for the reduction of adverse effects in both environmental and agricultural systems.
Development and Evaluation of Lycopene Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles
Authors: Dhiman A. , Bhalla D. 
Published: August 2018

Background:
Nanotechnology has gained a great deal of public interest due to
the needs and applications of nanomaterials in many areas of human endeavours such as
industry, agriculture, business, medicine and public health amongst many others. Polymeric
nanoparticles from biodegradable and biocompatible polymers are good candidates
for drug carrier to deliver the drugs because they are expected to be adsorbed in an intact
form in the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.

Objective:
The objective of the study was to investigate the influence of some precarious
variables like, concentration of chitosan, concentration of sodium tripolyphosphate
(STPP) and stirring time on physicochemical characteristics of lycopene loaded chitosan
nanoparticles.

Method:

Eight batches of lycopene loaded chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using
various concentrations of chitosan (100-200 mg), STPP (50-100 mg) by varying stirring
speed in the range of 10-20 minutes using ionic gelation method. The optimized
nanoparticulate formulation was characterized for various parameters like morphology
study, particle size and size distribution studies, differential scanning calorimetry, entrapment
efficiency and in-vitro drug release studies.

Results:

Lycopene loaded chitosan nanoparticles containing 150 mg of chitosan, 75 mg
of STPP, 20 mg of drug lycopene and with 15 min of stirring time showed entrapment efficiency
of 89.4%. The percent release of lycopene loaded chitosan nanoparticles at the
end of 6 h was found to be 83.5%, however, percent release of pure lycopene at the end
of 6 h was observed as 79.6%.

Conclusion:
Lycopene loaded chitosan nanoparticles may show a great promise for the
development of drug delivery system by enhancing the cellular accumulation of lycopene
with chitosan.
Variability of beech cupules in Serbia
Authors: Ivetić Vladan , Kerkez Ivona , Denić Ivan , Devetaković Jovana 
Published: August 2018

Beech is the most important tree species in forests of Serbia. However, despite its significance, the taxonomic status of beech in Serbia is unclear. Morphology of the cupules can be successfully used to distinguish species and within species taxa. In this paper we report results on cupules morphology, measuring the same attributes reported by Mišić (1955): 1) Length of the longest valve of cupule, 2) Width of that valve (at widest point), 3) Distance between base of the longest valve and peduncle, 4) Length of cupule without peduncle, and 5) Length of peduncle. The length of cupule and peduncle length from 12 populations in Serbia are in the range reported for Fagus sylvaticain Serbia and western Eurasia. Results of cluster analysis shows a grouping of populations in two groups:1) the southeast group, and 2) group consist of populations from northwest, east and southeast of Serbia. Populations from this southeast group also consist the group of populations on altitude over 850 m, indicating presence of ecotypes. The exception is population from Stara Planina (1,520 m a.s.l.) which is grouped with populations from altitudes under 850 m.
Keywords: European Beech; cupules; variability