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COVID-19 pandemic has almost made hand sanitization a ritual resulting in a steep increase in the frequency of hand sanitization and an unprecedented surge in demand for hand sanitizers. In fact, several governments had to ration hand sanitizers in the retail outlets and over the counter chemist shops. Additionally, Indian government has put a cap on the prices of hand sanitizers. Currently, large sections of global and Indian population are grappling under financial crises. Therefore, mandatory hand sanitization has made an unwelcoming, yet unavoidable addition to the already-hard-to-maintain-grocery-list. Here, we have compared the anti-microbial efficacy of Patanjali Hand Sanitizer (PHS), developed and marketed by Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. (an India-based food and herbal medicine company) with one of the topmost hand sanitizers currently used under clinical set-ups. PHS has anti-microbial efficacy comparable to that of the standard hand sanitizer. Besides, disc diffusion and time-dependent thumb print assays showed that PHS has longer retentivity on the applied surfaces, suggesting lesser consumption of the sanitizer and concomitant relaxation on the monthly grocery budget. Observed anti-bacterial potency of PHS is attributed to the disruption of bacterial cell membrane, as employed by alcohol-based hand sanitizers. A rough estimation revealed that PHS is ~ 4.3 times cost effective than the standard hand sanitizer used as the positive control in this study. Taken together, PHS is a suitable alternative for existing hand sanitizers available in the market that can relax the demand–supply strain and soften significantly the burden of monthly expenditure on hand sanitizers.

Background The rapid cost escalation of the government employee scheme in Thailand was driven by the overprescription of non-essential drugs (NEDs), which were not listed in the National Lists of Essential Medicines. A restrictive reimbursement policy implemented in October 2012 required prescribers to base the prescription of NEDs on six criteria, including A and B for safety, C for effectiveness, D for availability, and E and F for costs, hence known as the A-F policy. Objective The A-F policy was examined in terms of its outcomes regarding the prescription volume and reimbursement expenditure for lipid-lowering drugs (LLDs). Methods Data on LLD prescription in 2012–2015 from outpatient settings in 29 public hospitals were standardized using quantities based on the World Health Organization's Anatomical, Therapeutic and Chemical (ATC) classification and the defined daily dose (DDD) system. The policy effects were estimated using an interrupted time-series analysis. Results The restrictive reimbursement policy decreased both the prescription volume and the reimbursement value of non-essential LLDs. Within the first month of policy implementation, the percentage of NEDs, as defined by DDDs and reimbursement expenditure, immediately decreased by 15.1 and 15.2% points in provincial hospitals and by 8.3 and 4.4% points in military hospitals, respectively. The prescription of NEDs continued to decrease thereafter, despite there being no statistically significant changes in the trend of decreased prescribing compared with the prepolicy period. The decrease in the prescription of NEDs resulted in the declining reimbursed amount per day and stable expenditure of LLDs as a whole. Conclusion The effectiveness on the A-F restrictive reimbursement on NED prescribing helped stabilize the expenditure on LLDs.

Since the detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in humans and different environmental media in the last two decades, this substance group has attracted a lot of attention as well as increasing concerns. The fluorine mass balance approach, by comparing the levels of targeted PFAS after conversion to fluorine equivalents with those of extractable organic fluorine (EOF), showed the presence of unidentified organofluorine in different environmental samples. Out of the thousands of PFAS in existence, only a very small fraction is included in routine analysis. In recent years, liquid chromatography coupled with tandem-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has demonstrated the ability to analytically cover a wide spectrum of PFAS. In contrast, conventional extraction methods developed 10 to 15 years ago were only evaluated for a limited number of PFAS. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of three different extraction methods, adapted from the literatures without further optimization (ion-pair liquid-liquid extraction, solid-phase extraction (SPE), using hydrophilic-lipophilic (HLB) or weak anion exchange (WAX) sorbents), for human biomonitoring of 61 PFAS in serum and placental tissue samples. In addition, levels of EOF were compared among these extraction methods via spiked samples. Results showed that performance, in terms of recovery, differed between the extraction methods for different PFAS; different extraction methods resulted in different EOF concentrations indicating that the choice of extraction method is important for target PFAS and EOF analysis. Results of maternal serum samples, analyzed in two different laboratories using two different extraction methods, showed an accordance of 107.6% (± 21.3); the detected perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in maternal and cord serum samples were in the range of 0.076 to 2.9 ng/mL. Graphical abstract Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00216-020-03041-5.

The Galapagos Islands are well known for their incredible biodiversity and the inspiration for Charles Darwin's natural evolution theory. It is an ecosystem that has evolved without predators, so their native species are unfit for competition. As a result, this biodiversity has been threatened by invasive species like rats (Black and Norwegian). Nowadays, the primary strategy to control rats is by having drones that disperse a unique poisoned bait. Our study aims to mathematically model the strategies to eradicate rats in islands, based on previously reported processes. As a result, we are obtaining the approximated time to reduce its population as much as being eradicated, without threatening the coexisting species. We also propose a suitable alternative to be applied in the Galapagos Islands to recover their biodiversity richness. We find that rats' introduction has caused a decrease in the native species due to having specific traits that make them fitter in different situations. The best method to control species in such a sensitive environment is by the use of anticoagulant rodenticides. The current method used for eradicating rats seems to be the most profitable even though there is not enough information to see the collateral consequences of the poison technique. Furthermore, we propose this theoretical study complemented with in situ samplings to corroborate our hypothesis and improve our prediction model.

Hundreds of public water systems across the United States have been contaminated by the use of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during firefighting and training activities. Prior work shows AFFF contain hundreds of polyfluoroalkyl precursors missed by standard methods. However, the most abundant precursors in AFFF remain uncertain, and mixture contents are confidential business information, hindering proactive management of PFAS exposure risks. Here, we develop and apply a novel method (Bayesian inference) for reconstructing the fluorinated chain lengths, manufacturing origin, and concentrations of oxidizable precursors obtained from the total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay that is generally applicable to all aqueous samples. Results show virtually all (median 104 ± 19%) extractable organofluorine (EOF) in contemporary and legacy AFFF consists of targeted compounds and oxidizable precursors, 90% of which are 6:2 fluorotelomers in contemporary products. Using high-resolution mass spectrometry, we further resolved the 6:2 fluorotelomers to assign the identity of 14 major compounds, yielding a priority list that accounts for almost all detectable PFAS in contemporary AFFF. This combination of methods can accurately assign the total PFAS mass attributable to AFFF in any aqueous sample with differentiation of gross precursor classes and identification of major precursor species.

Neutrophils are the most abundant immune cells in the blood. Besides common immune defense mechanisms, releasing their DNA covered with antimicrobial proteases and histones represent another strong defense mechanism: neutrophil extracellular traps. In vitro the two most common inducers of these, so called, NETs are calcium ionophores (CI) and PMA (Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate). Following stimulation monitoring of NET release is necessary. For now, the methods of choice are quantification of free DNA by fluorescent dyes or analysis of immunofluorescence images. As a new method we tested bio-impedance monitoring of neutrophils after stimulation with the two inducers PMA and CI in gold-electrode coated plates. Bio-impedance (cell index) was measured over time. Results were compared to the monitoring of NETs by the fluorescent DNA-binding dye Sytox Green and immunofluorescence analysis. Cell index peaked about 25 min faster following CI stimulation than following PMA stimulation. The activation in Sytox Green Assay was significantly later detectable for PMA (+ approx. 90 min) but not for CI stimulation. The earlier and faster activation by CI was also confirmed by immunofluorescence staining. Our data suggest that bio-impedance measurement allows an easy online tracking of early neutrophil activation. This offers new opportunities to monitor early phases and stimuli-dependent dynamics of NETosis., EXCLI Journal; 19:Doc1481; ISSN 1611-2156

In this study, polypropylene meltblown nonwoven fabrics with different structure parameters such as fiber diameter, pore size, and areal density were prepared by the industrial production line. The morphology of meltblown nonwoven fibers was evaluated by using scanning electron microscope, and the diameter of fibers was analyzed by using image-pro plus software from at least 200 measurements. The pore size of nonwoven fabric was characterized by a CFP-1500AE type pore size analyzer. The filtration efficiency and pressure drop were evaluated by TSI8130 automatic filter. The results showed that the pressure drop of nonwoven fabrics decreased with the increase in pore size; the filtration efficiency and the pressure drop had a positive correlation with the areal density. However, when the areal density is in the range of 27–29 g/m2, both filtration efficiency and pressure drop decreased with the increase of areal density; when the areal density was kept constant, the filtration efficiency decreased as the pore size decreased; when the pore size of the meltblown nonwoven fabric is less than 17 μm, the filtration efficiency increased as the pore diameter decreased; when the pore diameter of the nonwoven fabric is larger than 17 μm. In a wide range, the pressure drop decreased as the fiber diameter decreased.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of burnout syndrome and mobbing, to determine their mutual relationship, and to identify predictors related to the probability of occurrence of burnout syndrome in general nurses working in hospitals. Methods: The work is designed as a cross-sectional study. The research took place in 2018 and the sample included 250 general nurses. Statistical evaluation was performed by means of descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlation coefficient, and logistic regression. Three standardized questionnaires were used - Maslach Burnout Inventory, Negative Questionnaire Act and SUPSO. Results: The research revealed burnout syndrome in the area of emotional exhaustion in 28.8% of nurses, of depersonalization in 15.2%, and in the area of personal accomplishment in 38.4%. 51.2% of nurses never experienced mobbing at workplace, one act of mobbing over the last six months was reported by 17.6% of respondents, two and more acts by 31.2%. Logistic regression revealed that the probability of occurrence of burnout syndrome in the area of emotional exhaustion is influenced by age, sex and by the size of an urban area, it is increased by anxiety and depression. In the area of depersonalization the probability of incidence increases with impulsiveness and dejection. In the area of personal accomplishment the probability of burnout syndrome incidence is increased by the lack of psychological wellbeing and activeness, by restlessness and impulsiveness. Though there were found significant relationships between all component parts of burnout syndrome and mobbing, multivariate logistic regression did not show the impact of any component part of mobbing on the probability of occurrence of burnout syndrome. Conclusions: The research revealed that the probability of burnout syndrome incidence is related to socio-demographic factors as well as to an individual's psychological states and perceptions. Direct impact of mobbing on the probability of burnout syndrome incidence was inconclusive.

Objectives: The authors evaluate situation in the field of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and working risk factors in the Czech Republic. Methods: Analysis of selected data from the Czech National Registry of Occupational Diseases during 2008-2018, description of criteria for recognition of occupational MSDs and risk factors associated with MSDs. Results: 6,152 cases of 6 selected recognized occupational musculoskeletal diseases represent 47% of all recognized occupational diseases. The main proportion formed diseases of peripheral nerves in the extremities in terms of compressive neuropathies due to long-term and stereotyped overload, diseases of tendons, tendon capsules or insertions of muscles or joints in the extremities due to long-term and stereotyped overload and diseases of peripheral nerves in the upper extremities in terms of ischaemic and compressive neuropathies due to work with vibrating tools and devices. The authors discussed decreasing trend of the exposure time in three main diagnoses and association of the incidence of MSDs with the risky work related to overload of the musculoskeletal system of the upper extremities. Conclusions: Important factors for the prevention of MSDs are directly related to the technical provision of production, the organization of work and the regime of work and rest, the length of working hours and the setting of production standards, and generally to the work related stress.

Objective: Recent experimental studies point to a high reactivity of nanoparticles and the potential of sunscreens to penetrate the skin. We measured 20 markers of oxidative stress and inflammation to find out whether skin exposure to nanoTiO2 sunscreen may elevate the level of the markers in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and urine of exposed subjects, as was suggested by our earlier study. Methods: Six volunteers (3 males and 3 females), with a mean age of 48.0 ± 6.7 years, used commercial sunscreen for three days continuously. The first samples were collected before the test. The second samples were collected on day 4, before the sunscreen was washed off, and the third samples on day 11. The following biomarkers were measured: malondialdehyde, 4-hydroxy-trans-hexenal, 4-hydroxy-trans-nonenal, aldehydes C6-C12, 8-isoProstaglandin F2α, o-tyrosine, 3-chlorotyrosine, 3-nitrotyrosine, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, 8-hydroxyguanosine, 5-hydroxymethyl uracil, and leukotrienes B4, C4, D4, and E4, using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionisation-tandem mass spectrometry. Results: In the urine, 4-hydroxy-trans-hexenal was significantly higher in post-exposure sample 2, and the same trend was seen in all urinary markers. In EBC, no difference was seen between the mean values of 20 post-test markers as compared with pre-test samples. Conclusion: This study suggests potential side effects of the sunscreen - borderline elevation of markers of oxidative stress/inflammation - which may relate to the absorption of the nanoTiO2, and the non-significant difference may be explained by the small number of subjects. The effect was not seen in EBC, where nanoTiO2 was not found. A larger study is needed, as according to our previous study, the beneficial effect of the sunscreen to suppress oxidative stress caused by UV radiation may be questioned.

Welders have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) following exposure to welding fumes. The underlying mechanisms are largely unknown; however, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction have been suggested as contributing factors to particle-induced CVD. We investigated effects of mild steel welding fume (MSWF) on three target cell types: macrophages, pulmonary epithelial, and vascular endothelial cells. Cells were exposed to MSWF at nontoxic doses for 6 h/day, for five consecutive days. The expression of 40 genes involved in inflammation, fibrosis, and endothelial activation was analyzed. Moreover, changes in the reactive oxygen species production and migration capacity of cells were assessed. The expression of matrix metallopeptidase 1 ( MMP1) was induced in both epithelial and endothelial cells following repeated exposure to MSWF. Although MMP1 is important in inflammatory responses in vivo, this effect was not concurrent with changes in the inflammatory status, cell proliferation, and migration capacities, nor did it induce oxidative stress in the cells. Thus, repeated exposure with low doses of MSWF was sufficient neither for inducing inflammatory stress in epithelial cells and macrophages nor for endothelial activation, and higher concentrations of MSWF or the nonparticle fraction of MSWF may be critical in causing the increased risk of CVD observed among welders.

The US president’s actions have exacerbated the pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States, rolled back environmental and public-health regulations and undermined science and scientific institutions. Some of the harm could be permanent. The US president’s actions have exacerbated the pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States, rolled back environmental and public-health regulations and undermined science and scientific institutions. Some of the harm could be permanent.

Objectives The main objective of the present study is to evaluate the mitigative effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Momordica cymbalaria fruits against sodium fluoride (NaF) induced hepatotoxicity. Methods In this study, Wistar male albino rats were randomly divided into five groups of six rats each. Group I and II served as normal and toxic controls. Group III as plant control received extract at a dose of 400 mg/kg b. wt, p.o and Groups IV and V as treatment groups received extract at a dose 200 and 400 mg/kg b. wt, p.o for 30 days. All groups except Groups I and III received 100 ppm of NaF through drinking water. After completion of the study, blood collected for the estimation of liver blood serum biomarkers such as aspartate aminotransferases (AST), alanine aminotransferases (ALT), alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), direct and total bilirubin, total protein and albumin. The liver tissue homogenate was for estimation of lipid peroxidation, catalase, and reduced glutathione levels. Results The results showed that NaF intoxication caused elevation of liver blood serum levels and lipid peroxidation; decreased levels of serum total protein, albumin and liver reduced glutathione, and catalase observed. The treatment groups showed decreased elevated serum biomarkers (ALT, AST, and ALP), liver lipid peroxidation and increased serum total protein and albumin, liver reduced glutathione and catalase levels in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological studies also further strongly supported for mitigative effects of the plant. Conclusions In conclusion, our findings of the study indicated that M. cymbalaria fruits were a potential drug candidate in the treatment of NaF induced hepatotoxicity.

Background Information on particle deposition, retention, and clearance is important when evaluating the risk of inhaled nanomaterials to human health. The revised Organization Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) inhalation toxicity test guidelines now require lung burden measurements of nanomaterials after rodent subacute and sub-chronic inhalation exposure (OECD 412, OECD 413) to inform on lung clearance behavior and translocation after exposure and during post-exposure observation (PEO). Lung burden measurements are particularly relevant when the testing chemical is a solid poorly soluble nanomaterial. Previously, the current authors showed that total retained lung burden of inhaled soluble silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) could be effectively measured using any individual lung lobe. Methods and results Accordingly, the current study investigated the evenness of deposition/retention of poorly soluble gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) after 1 and 5 days of inhalation exposure. Rats were exposed nose-only for 1 or 5 days (6 h/day) to an aerosol of 11 nm well-dispersed AuNPs. Thereafter, the five lung lobes were separated and the gold concentrations measured using an inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrophotometer (ICP-MS). The results showed no statistically significant difference in the AuNP deposition/retention among the different lung lobes in terms of the gold mass per gram of lung tissue. Conclusions Thus, it would seem that any rat lung lobe can be used for the lung burden analysis after short or long-term NP inhalation, while the other lobes can be used for collecting and analyzing the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and for the histopathological analysis. Therefore, combining the lung burden measurement, histopathological tissue preparation, and BALF assay from one rat can minimize the number of animals used and maximize the number of endpoints measured.

The aim of the present study was directed to investigate the effect of rosmarinic acid (RA) as a chemopreventive modality on experimentally induced hamster buccal pouch (HBP) carcinogenesis. Material and methods: Forty Syrian male hamsters five weeks old, weighing 80-120g, were divided into four groups of ten animals in each as follows, GI: Topical application of liquid paraffin alone (three times a week for 14 weeks), GII: Topical application of 7, 12 dimethyl benz[a]anthracene (DMBA) alone (0.5% in liquid paraffin, three times a week for 14 weeks), GIII: Topical application of DMBA (0.5% in liquid paraffin, three times a week for 14 weeks) + Oral administration of RA (100mg/kg b.w in 1ml distilled water by oral gavage, three times a week for 14 weeks on alternate days of DMBA application), GIV : Oral administration of RA alone (100mg/kg b.w in 1ml distilled water by oral gavage, three times a week for 14 weeks). Results: Gross observation and histopathological findings revealed a-GI: normal stratified squamous epithelium b- GII: well and moderately differentiated SCC c-: GIII: revealed considerably reversed tumor incidence d: GIV: normal similar to GI. Immunohistochemical results revealed, oral administration of RA to DMBA treated hamsters restored the normal expression of bcl-2 and Bax indicating that RA may have chemopreventive mechanism and/or pro-apoptotic effects. Conclusion: RA may act through various mechanisms, such as exerting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects as well as inhibiting cell proliferation, migration, and selectively inducing cancer cells apoptosis.

French PCC Research Group; International audience; Spiders are often wrongly designated as responsible for cutaneous eruptions. We aim to describe spider bites and the spider species implicated in metropolitan France. A retrospective observational study was conducted for all reported cases of spider bites from 2007 to 2018 extracted from the French Poison Control Centers (PCCs) information system, after exclusion of non-native spiders. We described identification of the spider, level of certainty of the bite, symptoms and severity of cases. 1194 cases of spider bites met the inclusion criteria. The average age of the patients was 36.9 +/- 19.8 years. Identification of the species or at least that a spider was implicated was only possible in 346 cases (29.0%). Loxosceles were involved in 53 cases (4.4%), Latrodectus in 46 cases (3.9%) and Cheiracanthium in 35 cases (2.9%). In one third of cases, the involved spider was not known to be present where the bite occurred. Where most of the patients (n = 1111, 93%) reported at least one cutaneous symptom, most of the symptoms were neurological. The bite was considered proven in only 242 cases (20%). Despite the efforts of arachnologists to educate the public, the fear of spiders is still alive in France, where spider bite is rare with low severity and often unproven.

Objective: The study evaluates compliance with declared hygienic standards carried out by healthcare professionals in clinical practice within their scope of direct patient care and the maintenance of medical tools and devices in healthcare facilities in the Czech Republic. Methods: Cross-sectional questionnaire study focused on the standards of safe health care. All 80 addressed healthcare providers were also involved in the 2018 Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS) pilot project. Responses were scored on a 6-level scale, from "always" (100 points) to "never" (0 points). The evaluation was performed according to the frequency of responses and the average index (max. 100 points). Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 22 (level of significance 1% and 5%). Results: There were statistically processed 2,016 questionnaires (100%). Most respondents stated their job classification as non-medical healthcare professionals (NHP) working at a patient's bedside (73%), physicians (16%), or other NHP (11%). As per their medical specialty, 43% of the respondents practice internal medicine, 28% surgery, 14% psychiatry, 9% long-term inpatient care, and 6% stated other fields of medicine. The lowest declared compliance was registered in the statement "I use a face mask when exposure to air-transmitted pathogens is anticipated" (rating index 80 points). The highest compliance (99.4 points) was registered in the statement: "I discard used sharp materials into sharps containers." Conclusion: In the surveyed healthcare facilities within the Czech Republic, overall compliance with hygiene standards is at a good level. Declared differences in compliance with hygiene standards in the selected items of the questionnaire are influenced by multiple factors. Generally, a higher level of compliance is linked to increasing age, years of practice, and a higher level of education. When comparing professional groups, a higher level of compliance with hygiene standards was registered in the NHP group.

Objective: The purpose of this article is to describe current research trends in medical tourism and implications for public health, especially in destination countries. Methods: The methods used for this article include a literature review of available sources on the research topic in the world's acknowledged databases Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE, and ScienceDirect. Results: The findings indicate that there is no consensus on the definition of medical tourism. However, there are a few conceptual models which can be used in further medical tourism research and practice. The findings also reveal that there are still certain issues, which hinder the fast growth of medical tourism, such as unclear impact on healthcare systems, ethical concerns or a lack of effective tools for the measurement of quality assurance of the medical tourism services and their products. Conclusions: There is a need for data collection on medical tourism, both at national and worldwide level to provide a realistic picture of this evolving field of tourism as well as implications for public health in destination countries.

The current study included the preparation of the aqueous extract of Raphanus sativus (Brassicaceae), commonly known as radish which is widely available throughout the world and has been used in folk medicine as a natural drug against many toxicants. The study was designed to evaluate the in vivo cytogenetic activity of the crude aqueous extract of R. sativus on mitosis on Allium cepa root tips as a plant test system. Root tips of A. cepa were tested for four hours with four concentrations of the crude aqueous extract (0.00, 5, 10, 20, 40 mg/ml). The study included a number of cytogenetic analyses such as mitotic index, phase index, and chromosomal aberration. The data showed that this extract led to reducing the mitotic index (MI) to less than 50%. Specifically, when treated with 10 and 40 mg/ml the mitotic index reached 23.72 % and 41.89 %, respectively. This reduction is considered to have toxic and sublethal effects. The extract caused an arrest of the cells at metaphase (c-metaphase) with a high percentage of 80.76% at 5 mg/ml, along with chromosomal aberrations including sticky metaphase, polar deviation, and bridges in anaphase.

The methanol extract and its ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of Actaea acuminata (Wall. ex. Royle) H. Hara roots were reported to exhibit significant antianxiety, anticonvulsant and antidepressant activities, and mild sedative activity. But the constituents responsible for these activities have not been isolated. The present study was undertaken to isolate neuroprotective compounds of A. acuminata following bioactivity-guided-fractionation. The column chromatography of EAF and its sub-fractions led to the isolation of four phenolic compounds (bergenin, gallic acid, acetyl bergenin and racemic mixture of diacetyl bergenin), which were characterized by IR and NMR spectral analysis. All the compounds exhibited significant antianxiety and antidepressant activities with respect to control. The gallic acid and bergenin did not show anticonvulsant activity, whereas acetyl bergenin and racemic mixture of diacetyl bergenin exhibited significant anticonvulsant activity. Neuropharmacological activities of A. acuminata are attributed due to polyphenolic compounds. Scientific validation of traditional claims of A. acuminata has opened up roadmap of research for the development of CNS affecting lead molecules.

The article is considers about the issues of physical education of students during their studies in universities. The purpose of the study is to experimentally identify the influence of calanetics as a means of physical education of students of major medical groups on the parameters of the functional state and the state of physical fitness. The basis of the research is the use of methods of obtaining empirical data: pedagogical experiment, pedagogical testing for the diagnosis of somatic health parameters, methods of mathematical statistics. The possibility of ensuring the effectiveness of this process by improving approaches to the organization, formation and implementation of the content of classroom lessons based on the introduction of new innovative tools in this process is substantiated. The development effectiveness is proved by the increase in the studied indicators and the magnitude of the manifestation of their values at the end of the year. Using the means of calanetics in the physical education of female students has been empirically tested. An expressive (p

Background Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry is used widely used for the quantitative analysis of phytoconstituents present in medicinal plants to assess the quality of extract used for different investigations. Objective A sensitive, precise, and accurate liquid chromatographic method with tandem mass spectrometric detection was developed for simultaneous quantification of lupeol, betulinic acid, and β-sitosterol in the methanolic extract of Madhuca longifolia bark. Method The three compounds were eluted with a stationary phase Gemini C18 column (50 × 2.0 mm, 3 μm id) and the temperature of the column was maintained by a column oven at 40 ± 0.3°C; mobile phase A (water and 0.1% formic acid) and mobile phase B [acetonitrile–methanol (50+50, v/v) and 0.1% formic acid] were used in a gradient mode and the flow rate was 0.4 mL/min. Results With these conditions, the retention time for betulinic acid, lupeol, and β-sitosterol was found to be 1.25, 3.08, and 3.53 minutes, respectively. The total run time was 5.0 min. Detection and quantitation of all three phytoconstituents were carried out by the mass spectrometer, a triple quadrupole equipped with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, and multiple reaction monitoring using the predominantly positive ion mode and obtained much higher and more stable response nebulizer gas flow at 3.0 L/min. Linear responses were exhibited for all three phytoconstituents with a dynamic linear range of 10–100 μg/mL with the values of the regression coefficient more than 0.995 for betulinic acid, lupeol, and β-sitosterol. The values of percentage RSD for intraday and interday precision were found to be within the accepted limits for analytical methods ( Conclusions The proposed method is accurate and sensitive and can be used for the routine quantification of betulinic acid, lupeol, and β-sitosterol from the herbal extract and its poly-herbal formulations.

Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian analisis. Tahapan penelitian di mulai dengan tim peneliti melakukan observasi menggunakan metode HIRA di laboratorium motor bakar Politeknik Negeri Subang. Data yang didapatkan kemudian di analisis dengan pengukuran yang digunakan dalam Australian Standard/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS). Berdasarkan hasil temuan dan analisis, dapat disimpulkan bahwa (1) ditemukan 9 bahaya (hazard) di laboratorium motor bakar Politeknik Negeri Subang. Dari 9 bahaya tersebut terdiri dari 1 bahaya dalam kategori 3H (high) yaitu penempatan posisi motor terlalu berdekatan dan tidak menggunakan APD; 2 bahaya dalam kategori 2M (medium), dan 6 bahaya masuk kategori L (low). Tidak ada yang masuk dalam kategori bahaya ekstrem; (2) Rekomendasi tindakan yang bisa dilakukan untuk mengurangi bahaya di laboratorium motor bakar Politeknik Negeri Subang yaitu pembuatan SOP laboratorium, penataan kembali tata ruang dan peralatan, serta pemberian instruksi sebelum dan sesudah mahasiswa praktikum.

Prosopis juliflora (P. juliflora) is a widespread phreatophytic tree, which belongs to the Fabaceae family. The goal of the present study is to investigate the potential anti-cancer effect of P. juliflora leave extracts and to identify its chemical composition. For this purpose, MCF-7 (breast), HepG2 (liver), and LS-174T (colorectal) cancer cell lines were cultivated and incubated with various concentrations of P. juliflora leave extracts, and its impact on cell viability, proliferation, and cell cycle stages was investigated. P. juliflora leave extracts induced concentration-dependent cytotoxicity against all tested cancer cell lines. The calculated IC50 was 18.17, 33.1 and 41.9 μg/ml for MCF-7, HePG2 and LS-174T, respectively. Detailed analysis revealed that the cytotoxic action of P. juliflora extracts was mainly via necrosis but not apoptosis. Moreover, DNA content flow cytometry analysis showed cell-specific anti-proliferative action and cell cycle stages arrest. In order to identify the anti-cancer constituents of P. juliflora, the ethyl extracts were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The major constituents identified in the ethyl extracts of P. juliflora leaves were hydroxymethyl-pyridine, nicotinamide, adenine, and poly-(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). In conclusion, P. juliflora ethyl acetate extracts have a potential anti-cancer effect against breast adenocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and colorectal adenocarcinoma, and is enriched with anti-cancer constituents., EXCLI Journal;Vol. 19. 2020, pp.1282-1294

Recently, the microbiome-derived trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) was shown to be present in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). However, data on the potential of TMAO crossing the blood-CSF barrier are still lacking. This retrospective study aimed at investigating possible associations between the CSF/serum albumin (QALB) and TMAO (QTMAO) quotient and evaluating QTMAO values in individuals with and without blood-CSF barrier dysfunction. A total of 290 patients, who underwent diagnostic lumbar puncture with QALB and QTMAO determination, were evaluated. Serum and CSF TMAO measurements were performed on a tandem mass spectrometry SCIEX QTRAP 4500 (Applied Biosystems, Framingham, MA, USA) coupled with an Agilent 1260 Infinity HPLC system (Agilent Technologies Santa Clara, CA, USA). Serum and CSF albumin were measured on the Atellica® NEPH 630 system (Siemens Healthineers, Erlangen, Germany). CSF TMAO levels were positively correlated with serum TMAO levels (ρ = 0.709, p < 0.001). The QALB was significantly associated with the QTMAO (ß-coefficient = 0.312; p < 0.001). A total of 117 patients with blood-CSF barrier dysfunction had significantly higher median (Q1 – Q3) QTMAO values (4.7 (2.8 – 7.5) vs. 3.8 (2.5 – 5.7) x 10-1, p = 0.002) compared to 173 individuals with normal blood-CSF barrier function. CSF and serum TMAO concentrations were significantly associated in 290 CSF/serum pairs from lumbar punctures of clinical routine. QALB showed a relevant influence on QTMAO. Present results indicate that TMAO may cross the blood-CSF barrier., EXCLI Journal; 19:Doc1275; ISSN 1611-2156

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the ambient atmosphere is strongly associated with detrimental health effects. However, these particles from various sources and regions are unlikely equally toxic. While animal studies are impractical for high-throughput toxicity testing, appropriate in vitro models are urgently needed. Co-culture of A549 and THP-1 macrophages grown at air–liquid interface (ALI) or under submerged conditions was exposed to same concentrations of ambient PM2.5 to provide accurate comparisons between culture methods. Following 24-h incubation with PM2.5 collected in Harbin in China, biological endpoints being investigated include cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and pro-inflammatory mediators. The co-culture grown under submerged condition demonstrated a significant increase in ROS levels and all tested pro-inflammatory indicators [interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α] in mRNA expression and released protein levels. Similar but a declining response trend was observed using the same PM2.5 incubation after grown at ALI. We further observed a significant increase of PM2.5-induced phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and activation of NF-κB p65 in a dose-dependent trend for co-cultures grown under submerged condition. These results provide important implications that culture conditions (ALI versus submerged) can induce different extents of biological responses to ambient PM2.5; the co-culture grown at ALI is less likely to produce false-positive results than submerged culture. Hence, culture conditions should be discussed when comparing in vitro methods used for high-throughput PM2.5 toxicity assessment in future.

Currently, aesthetics, and especially the smile, adds considerable social value. In this way, patients suffering from dental loss wish that their rehabilitation be performed quickly and safely. The aim of oral rehabilitation is to restore masticatory, phonetic, aesthetic and quality of life to the patient. The diagnostic step is one of the most important and relevant steps in establishing a correct treatment plan and, in this way, it is possible to obtain excellent results. The present study aimed to demonstrate the importance of diagnostic waxing in oral rehabilitation. Patient sought treatment at the Dental Prosthesis Specialization Course at Odonto School, due to complaints associated with aesthetics and function. To improve their quality of life, planning of case was carried out through diagnostic waxing and a prosthetic solution was proposed. At the end of treatment and during the follow-up of the case, the patient reported satisfaction and significant improvement in quality of life. It can be concluded that the diagnostic waxing presents customized solutions offering, through a previous study, an effective clinical resolution to the patient. Keywords: Mouth Rehabilitation. Dental Restoration, Temporary. Dental Restoration, Temporary. Resumo Atualmente, a estética, e em especial o sorriso, agregam um valor social considerável. Dessa forma, ao sofrerem a perda dental, os pacientes desejam que sua reabilitação seja realizada de forma rápida e segura. A reabilitação oral tem como objetivo devolver ao paciente a eficiência mastigatória, fonética, estética e a qualidade de vida. A etapa diagnóstica constitui um dos passos mais importantes e relevantes no estabelecimento de um correto planejamento do tratamento e, desta forma, torna-se possível obter resultados de excelência. O presente estudo teve como objetivo demonstrar a importância do enceramento diagnóstico na reabilitação oral. Paciente procurou tratamento no Curso de Especialização em Prótese Dentária da Odonto School, devido a queixas associadas a estética e função. Para melhorar sua qualidade de vida, foi realizado o planejamento do caso por meio do enceramento diagnóstico e uma solução protética foi proposta. Ao final do tratamento e durante o acompanhamento do caso, a paciente relatou satisfação e melhora significativa na qualidade de vida. Pode-se concluir que o enceramento diagnóstico apresenta soluções personalizadas oferecendo, por meio de estudo prévio, uma resolução clínica efetiva ao paciente. Palavras-chave: Reabilitação Bucal. Restauração Dentária Temporária. Prótese Dentária Temporária.

The incidence of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) has increased as populations are aging, and teeth are increasingly retained for life. Several materials are available to treat these lesions. This study aimed to evaluate the stress distribution of maxillary premolars with NCCLs using three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA) according to different restorative techniques. A 3D FEA mathematical model simulating a sound premolar was initially modeled and replicated in 6 more models simulating a tooth with abfraction: G.1 tooth with abfraction; G.2 tooth with abfraction + composite resin restoration; G.3 tooth with abfraction + glass-ionomer cement restoration; G.4 tooth with abfraction + resin composite restoration + porcelain laminate veneers; G.5 tooth with abfraction + glass-ionomer cement + porcelain laminate veneers; and G.6 modified porcelain laminate veneers filling the lesion. All materials and structures were considered linear, elastic, homogeneous and isotropic and the results were expressed as maximum principal stress. Lower stress concentration in dentin was calculated when the tooth was restored with composite resin and glass-ionomer cement. Regarding the veneer techniques, no difference was found to dentin stress among the groups, but the modified veneer concentrated less stress in the restoration than other the techniques. The control group had the highest concentration of stress in the lesion. All techniques decreased the stress concentration inside the NCCLs and the indirect veneer filling the lesion presented better biomechanical behavior than the veneer cemented above direct restorations. Keywords: Finite Element Analysis. Dental Veneers. Ceramics. Bicuspid. Resumo A incidência de lesões cervicais não-cariosas (LCNC) tem aumentado, uma vez que a população tem envelhecido com uma menor perda de elementos dentários. Diferentes materiais estão disponíveis para tratar dessas lesões. Este estudo objetivou avaliar a distribuição de tensão de pré-molares superiores com LCNC por meio da análise tridimensional (3D) de elementos finitos (FEA) de acordo com diferentes técnicas restauradoras. Um modelo matemático 3D FEA simulando um pré-molar íntegro foi modelado e replicado em mais 6 modelos simulando um dente com abfração: G.1 dente com abfração; G.2 dente com abfração + resina composta; G.3 dente com abfração + cimento de ionômero de vidro; G.4 dente com abfração + resina composta + faceta; G.5 dente com abfração + cimento de ionômero de vidro + faceta cerâmica e G.6 com faceta cerâmica modificada, preenchendo a lesão. Todos os materiais e estruturas foram considerados lineares, elásticos, homogêneos e isotrópicos e os resultados foram expressos como máxima tensão principal. Menor concentração de tensão na dentina foi calculada quando o dente foi restaurado com resina composta ou cimento de ionômero de vidro. Dentre os grupos com laminados, não houve diferença para a dentina, entretanto a faceta modificada apresentou menor concentração de tensão na restauração. O grupo controle apresentou a maior concentração de tensão na lesão. Todas as técnicas restauradoras diminuíram a concentração de tensão no interior das LCNCs e dentre as técnicas com laminados a faceta modificada apresentou o melhor comportamento biomecânico. Palavras-chave: Análise de Elementos Finitos. Facetas Dentárias. Cerâmica. Dente Pré-Molar.

Currently, smoking is considered a serious public health problem and is considered the greatest avoidable cause of illness, disability and death. Several studies, over time, have concluded the relationship of smoking to serious diseases that are responsible for anti-smoking government policies worldwide. There are many advances in tobacco prevention and smoking cessation, but data on smoking deaths are still alarming. Brazil is considered a great inspiration for other countries when it comes to these policies, just as other countries served as inspiration for Brazil, such as Canada. Children and adolescents are a group that is very vulnerable to smoking and therefore are considered a priority when it comes to prevention. In light of the above, a bibliographical review was carried out with the objectives of contextualizing the problem of smoking and of identifying the factors that lead adolescents to use tobacco. The study shows that smoking is considered one of several risk situations that the adolescent is exposed in this phase of so many transformations. Most authors point to curiosity as the major factor that leads the adolescent to smoking and the parents and friends smokers as main influences for the initiation of this habit. Keywords: Tobacco. Tobacco Use Disorder. Young. Resumo Atualmente o tabagismo é considerado um sério problema de saúde pública, sendo considerada a maior causa evitável de doenças, invalidez e morte. Diversos estudos, ao longo do tempo, foram concluindo a relação do hábito tabágico às doenças graves que são responsáveis por políticas governamentais antitabagismo em todo mundo. Muitos são os avanços para a prevenção do tabagismo, bem como para o auxílio na cessação deste hábito, porém ainda são alarmantes os dados relacionados ao óbito de fumantes. O Brasil é considerado uma grande inspiração para outros países quando se trata dessas políticas, assim como outros países serviram de inspiração para o Brasil, como o Canadá. As crianças e os adolescentes formam um grupo muito vulnerável ao tabagismo e por este motivo são considerados prioridade quando se trata de prevenção. Frente ao exposto, realizou-se uma revisão bibliográfica com os objetivos de contextualizar a problemática do tabagismo e de identificar os fatores que levam os adolescentes a fazerem uso do tabaco. O estudo mostra que o tabagismo é considerado uma das várias situações de risco que o adolescente é exposto nessa fase de tantas transformações. A maioria dos autores apontam a curiosidade como o maior fator que leva o adolescente ao tabagismo e os pais e amigos fumantes como principais influências para a iniciação deste hábito. Palavras-chave: Tabaco. Tabagimo. Saúde do Adolescente.

The study of medicinal plants with antimicrobial action is a current issue, mainly due to the increase of bacterial resistance and the need for new antimicrobials with equal or greater efficacy, low cost and low side effects. The constant search for new products with bactericidal potential on oral microorganisms, mainly of natural origin, has grown considerably in recent years.The objective of this research was to evaluate the efficiency of concentrations of Barbatimão glycolic extract solution (Stryphnodendronadstringens) in inhibiting the bacteria growth associated with in vitro dental caries. Sixteen different concentrations of Barbatimão glycolic extract were prepared (0%, 1.56%, 3.12%, 4.68%, 6.25%, 7.81%, 9.37%, 10.93, 12, 5%, 25%, 37.5%, 50%, 62.5%, 75%, 87.5%, 100%) and the 2% chlorhexidine solution were used as the control group. The prepared solutions were tested on the bacterial strain of Streptococcus mutans. Bacterial growth was observed on plates containing BHI culture medium. Barbatimão concentrates were placed in wells made in the culture medium and each plate was incubated in a CO2 oven (37 ° C / 24 hours). The test was performed in triplicate, resulting in the absence of bacterial inhibition at the tested barbatimão concentrations, with bacterial inhibition of 2% chlorhexidine being positive. It is concluded that the barbatimão glycolic extract in the analyzed concentrations does not present bactericidal action on Streptococcus mutans. Keywords: Dental Caries. Microbiota. Stryphnodendronbarbatimam Resumo O estudo de plantas medicinais com ação antimicrobiana é um assunto atual, principalmente devido ao aumento da resistência bacteriana e a necessidade de novos antimicrobianos com igual ou maior eficácia, baixo custo e baixos efeitos colaterais. A busca constante de novos produtos com potencial bactericida sobre os micro-organismos orais, principalmente de origem natural tem crescido bastante nos últimos anos. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a eficiência de diferentes concentrações de solução de extrato glicólico de Barbatimão (Stryphnodendron adstringens) na inibição do crescimento de bactérias associadas a cárie dental in vitro.Foram preparadas dezesseis concentrações do extrato glicólico do Barbatimão (0%, 1,56%, 3,12%, 4,68%, 6,25%, 7,81%, 9,37%, 10,93, 12,5%, 25%, 37,5%, 50%, 62,5%, 75%, 87,5%, 100%) e como grupo controle foi utilizada a solução de clorexidina 2%. As soluções preparadas foram testadas sobre a cepa bacteriana de Streptococcus mutans. O crescimento bacteriano foi observado em placas contendo meio de cultura BHI. As concentracões do barbatimão foram colocadas em poços realizados no meio de cultura e cada placa foi incubada em estufa de CO2 (37°C / 24 horas). O teste foi realizado em triplicata, tendo como resultado a ausência de inibição bacteriana para as concentrações do barbatimão testadas, sendo positiva a inibição bacteriana para clorexidina a 2%. Conclui-se que o extrato glicólico de barbatimão nas concentrações analisadas, não apresenta ação bactericida sobre o Streptococcus mutans. Palavras-chave: Cárie Dentária. Microbiota. Barbatimão

The medical manufacturing industry is currently one of the sectors with great potential growth in Malaysia, which offers numerous job opportunities to local and foreign workers. The growing proportion of workers in this industry means that a large number of workers are potentially exposed to ergonomic risk factors at the workplace, which may consequently affect their health. Thus, this study was carried out is to investigate the ergonomic risk factors and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among male workers in a medical manufacturing company in northern Malaysia. Eight industrial workers (n = 8) were recruited from two Plastic Technology (PT) departments to participate in this study. Observations were made by recording the participants performing two tasks (manual lifting of containers and bags of chemicals) using a video camera at the PT1 and PT3 departments. The participants’ personal information and their job-related characteristics were first collected using a demographic questionnaire. Next, the Cornell Musculoskeletal and Hand Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) was used to evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among workers while Manual Handling Assessment Charts (MAC) were used to assess the most common risk factors during the lifting operations. The results showed that the highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among the male workers at the medical manufacturing company was at the lower back (83.17%), upper back (4.38%), right shoulder (3.49%), and left shoulder (3.49%). Based on the results of the MAC, 100% of the participants were at high risk of injury from postures in the vertical lift zones, torso twisting, and sideways bending. In addition, 87.5 and 62.5% of the participants were at high risk of injury based on their hand distance from the lower back and grip on the load, respectively. The results of this study can serve as a guideline to implement interventional ergonomics programmes at the workplace and improve the musculoskeletal health of workers in the medical manufacturing industry in Malaysia.

Background Various risk factors influence obesity differently, and environmental endocrine disruption may increase the occurrence of obesity. However, most of the previous studies have considered only a unitary exposure or a set of similar exposures instead of mixed exposures, which entail complicated interactions. We utilized three statistical models to evaluate the correlations between mixed chemicals to analyze the association between 9 different chemical exposures and obesity in children and adolescents. Methods We fitted the generalized linear regression, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) to analyze the association between the mixed exposures and obesity in the participants aged 6–19 in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2010. Results In the multivariable logistic regression model, 2,5-dichlorophenol (2,5-DCP) (OR (95% CI): 1.25 (1.11, 1.40)), monoethyl phthalate (MEP) (OR (95% CI): 1.28 (1.04, 1.58)), and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) (OR (95% CI): 1.42 (1.07, 1.89)) were found to be positively associated with obesity, while methylparaben (MeP) (OR (95% CI): 0.80 (0.68, 0.94)) was negatively associated with obesity. In the multivariable linear regression, MEP was found to be positively associated with the body mass index (BMI) z-score (β (95% CI): 0.12 (0.02, 0.21)). In the WQS regression model, the WQS index had a significant association (OR (95% CI): 1.48 (1.16, 1.89)) with the outcome in the obesity model, in which 2,5-DCP (weighted 0.41), bisphenol A (BPA) (weighted 0.17) and MEP (weighted 0.14) all had relatively high weights. In the BKMR model, despite no statistically significant difference in the overall association between the chemical mixtures and the outcome (obesity or BMI z-score), there was nonetheless an increasing trend. 2,5-DCP and MEP were found to be positively associated with the outcome (obesity or BMI z-score), while fixing other chemicals at their median concentrations. Conclusion Comparing the three statistical models, we found that 2,5-DCP and MEP may play an important role in obesity. Considering the advantages and disadvantages of the three statistical models, our study confirms the necessity to combine different statistical models on obesity when dealing with mixed exposures.

A 77-year-old woman with heart failure was admitted to our hospital. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest revealed an anterior mediastinal tumor. CT-guided biopsy revealed a malignant nonepithelial tumor of unknown origin. She was not treated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy because of her poor clinical condition. She died 33 days after admission. Following autopsy, we confirmed that the mediastinal tumor had infiltrated the large blood vessels. After final histological examination, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma was diagnosed. Primary mediastinal sarcomas are very rare; clinicians should be aware of their possibility because some cases may progress rapidly as evidenced in this case., EXCLI Journal; 19:Doc1161; ISSN 1611-2156

The paper is devoted to the development of students' physical activity by means of physical education during their studies in institutions of higher education is considered. The relevance of the study is due to the objective need to increase the effectiveness of physical education at all its levels in accordance with modern social development as a significant factor in optimizing students' motor activity and maintaining their health. The purpose of the work is to identify and determine the directions of increasing the level of physical activity of students in physical education lessons in extracurricular forms of physical education. Research methods: theoretical analysis, systematization, comparison of different views on the problem under study, generalization of scientific and methodological and specialized literature. Determination of the structure of movement activity of students in the mode of the school day, that in the structure of physical activity walking predominates, which accounts for 55-60% of the time in the weekly physical activity it is established. Second place is occupied by classes in sports sections, third place is occupied by physical education in the network of student educational schedule.Organizational support of extracurricular physical education classes aimed at the development of students' motor activity during training has been defined and scientifically substantiated. As a result, these include: the individualization of the means and methods of physical activity, the formation of knowledge in the development of motor activity, ensuring the widespread use of information means, the choice of adequate means and methodical methods of transferring educational information, the implementation of control over the results.

We report on a study evaluating the educational opportunities that highly multimodal and interactive Virtual Learning Environments (VLE) provide for collaborative learning in the context of interpr...

Lead (Pb) is one of several environmental pollutants that adversely affect human health by producing toxicity at the tissue level. The aim of the study was to understand the effects of Pb on the metabolic profiles of liver and gastrocnemius muscle of mice in relation to carbohydrate and fat metabolisms. Swiss albino mice were chosen and divided into two groups, control and Pb-treated. The Pb-treated animals were exposed to Pb at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight for 30 days orally, which resulted in hypoglycemia, glycosuria, and increased glycogenolysis in the liver and gastrocnemius muscle of treated mice. Pyruvic acid, the end product of glycolysis decreased in muscular tissue and increased in the liver. Additionally, the activity of G-6Pase was depressed in the liver, whereas lactate dehydrogenase activity was increased in skeletal muscle only. An adaptive mechanism was initiated by stimulating glycogenolytic and retarding glycolytic activity in the liver and also by alteration of liver and muscle pyruvate dehydrogenase activity along with increased activity of malate dehydrogenase in skeletal muscle. There was enhancement of succinate dehydrogenase and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activities in the studied tissues. Interestingly, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein levels were elevated, whereas those of triglycerides were decreased in Pb-treated mice serum. The activities of fatty acid synthase and glyceraldehyde 3 phosphate dehydrogenase were depressed in Pb-treated mice livers. Pb also significantly altered the morphological features of the liver, skeletal muscle, and pancreas. These data suggested that subacute Pb exposure was responsible for metabolic modulation in an adaptive fashion in the liver and skeletal muscle of mice.

Coronaviruses are a group of enveloped viruses with non-segmented, single-stranded, and positive-sense RNA genomes. In December 2019, an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), in Wuhan City, China. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak as a global pandemic in March 2020. Fever, dry cough and fatigue are found in the vast majority of all COVID-19 cases. Early diagnosis, treatment and future prevention are keys to COVID-19 management. Currently, the unmet need to develop cost-effective point-of-contact test kits and efficient laboratory techniques for confirmation of COVID-19 infection has powered a new frontier of diagnostic innovation. No proven effective therapies or vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 currently exist. The rapidly increasing research regarding COVID-19 virology provides a significant number of potential drug targets. Remdesivir may be the most promising therapy up till now. On May 1, 2020, Gilead Sciences, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for the investigational Remdesivir as a potential antiviral for COVID-19 treatment. On May 7, 2020, Gilead Sciences, announced that the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has granted regulatory approval of Veklury® (Remdesivir) as a treatment for SARS-CoV-2 infection, the virus that causes COVID-19 acute respiratory syndrome, under an exceptional approval pathway. Also, Corticosteroids are recommended for severe cases only to suppress the immune response and reduce symptoms, but not for mild and moderate patients where they are associated with a high-risk side effect. Based on the currently published evidence, we tried to highlight different diagnostic approaches, side effects and therapeutic agents that could help physicians in the frontlines., EXCLI Journal; 19:Doc992; ISSN 1611-2156

Evidence for potential effects of inorganic nitrate (NO3) on body weight is limited to inconsistent findings of animal experiments. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to quantify the overall effect of inorganic NO3, administered via drinking water, on body weight gain in rats. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases, and the reference lists of published papers. Experiments on male rats, reported data on body weight in NO3-treated animals and controls, were included for quality assessment, meta-analyses, subgroup analyses, and meta-regressions. Of 173 initially obtained studies, 11 were eligible to be included in the analyses, which covered the years 2004 to 2019 and included a total of 43 intervention (n=395) and 43 control (n=395) arms. Overall, the final body weights were significantly lower in the NO3-supplemented groups compared to controls (WMD= –16.8 g, 95 % CI= –27.38, –6.24; P=0.002). Doses of NO3 higher than the median (> 72.94 mg L-1 d-1) and longer NO3 exposure (> 8 weeks) resulted in greater mean differences (WMD= –31.92 g, 95 % CI= –52.90, –10.94 and WMD= –23.16 g, 95 % CI= –35.64, –10.68 g). After exclusion of experiments using high doses of NO3 (> 400 mg L-1 d-1), the overall mean differences in body weights between the groups decreased by approximately 37 % but remained statistically significant (WMD= –10.11 g, 95 % CI= –19.04, –1.19, P=0.026). Mean changes in body weight were affected by age, baseline values in body weight, and the duration of the studies. These preliminary experimental findings strongly support the hypothesis that NO3 can be considered as a natural anti-obesity agent., EXCLI Journal; 19:Doc972; ISSN 1611-2156

Objective: The main aim of this study is to discover and analyse the utilization of health impact assessment (HIA) among HIA certificate holders, and to ascertain their opinions on the current situation in the Czech Republic and on the possible future nationwide implementation of health impact assessment. Methods: The target group of the research was identified as holders of professional competence certificates in the field of public health impact assessment. A structured questionnaire was developed. The first part mapped the recent use of HIA in the Czech Republic, the second addressed the issue of linking HIA to regional policies and to the national strategy, the third aimed to gain information about the preparedness of the Czech Republic for the full implementation of HIA, and the last part focused on quality assessment and capacity building for HIA. Results: The results of the survey point to the inconsistencies in the perception of the whole concept of HIA in the Czech Republic by the professional public, and also to a shortage of experts in this area. There is only a narrow circle of experts, especially in the field of health care. It also lacks an informational base, which assist in the unification of processes in this area. As the results of the questionnaire showed, the problems are the lack of interest in the application of the HIA method and, subsequently, the lack of demand. Conclusion: The collected data showed obstacles and gaps in the implementation of the HIA methodology in the Czech Republic. At the same time it has revealed possible ways to change the current situation, based on the opinions of those who practice this methodology in the Czech Republic.

Objective: The aim of this analysis was to analyze the presence of the most important cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and to discuss patterns of LDL cholesterol management in the population studied. Methods: We enrolled 961 males, average age of 42.9 ± 4.7, and 851 females, average age of 51.2 ± 3.6. Data on personal, pharmacological and family history, and laboratory examinations were collected. Cardiovascular (CV) risk was calculated using the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) algorithm with modifications according to the guidelines. Results: The distribution of CV risk in the observed cohort was as follows: 24% of the subjects had low, 51% moderate, 17% high and 8% very high risk. The percentage of patients who reached target values of LDL cholesterol was dramatically lower in the groups with very high (1%) and high (3%) risk than in the groups with moderate (14%) or low risk (59%). Dyslipidemia was newly identified in 20% of both sexes. Arterial hypertension was newly diagnosed in 8% of males and 5% of females, and type 2 diabetes mellitus was newly diagnosed in 3% of both the males and females. Dyslipidemia was present in 39% of males and 41% of females; arterial hypertension in 43% of males and 45% of females, and type 2 diabetes mellitus was diagnosed in 11% of the subjects of both sexes. 49% of males and 31% of females were overweight and 32% of both genders were obese. There were 36% of male smokers and 22% of female smokers. 48% of the participants were pharmacologically treated. Non-pharmacological treatment was recommended to 62% of male and to 65% of female participants. Pharmacological intervention was started in 53% of males and 51% of females. In both gender antihypertensive treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (29% of males and 27% of females) and lipid lowering therapy with a statin (28% of males, 27% of females) were the most commonly initiated treatments. In the subgroup of the 101 patients with LDL cholesterol levels > 5 mmol/L 56% were not treated with a statin. The analysis of relationship between the positive family history of any of the followed CV risks showed significant increases of the risk for arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia. Conclusion: European guidelines suggest general screening for risk factors, including analysis of lipid profiles in the population of 40-year-old males and 50-year-old or postmenopausal women. Our study documents high prevalence and incidence of CV risk factors together with insufficient control of the risk factors in Czech patients of this age range. This finding suggests that preventive examinations should be undertaken earlier (e.g., in 30-year-old males and 40-year-old women). Exact timing of the preventive check-ups to yield the best cost-benefit ratio needs to be verified.

Objectives: Oral health can affect quality of life in all course of life, which is a key factor of general health. Dental caries, periodontitis and oral cancer are of the highest burden of oral diseases. Rising prevalence of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages consumption due to easy access and socio-demographic altering has increased the concerns on oral health. In this review our purpose was to show effects of the most consumed beverages on oral health in people older than 15 years. Methods: The review was based on papers published in last 10 years, searched with combined key words related to types of drinks and specific oral health problems. We included 4 older studies due to lack of newer studies on subjected topics. Results: Sugar-free soft drinks are found less cariogenic and erosive than regular versions in limited number of studies. Alcohol consumption is shown as one of the risk factors of prevalence and severity of periodontitis and is proven to have synergistic effects along with tobacco on oral cancer risk. Consumption of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages was related with tooth loss whether dental caries or periodontal diseases. Conclusion: There is good evidence for association between soft drinks and oral health problems, but still no clear answer exists about strength of association between sugar-free soft drinks and dental caries. Also the knowledge about influence of alcohol is inadequate. Since consuming style affects erosive potential of drinks manufacturers should be required to add some recommendations on labels about drinking style.

Objectives: Since the beginning of the civil war in Syria, over 3.5 million Syrians have fled to Turkey. Considering the massive burden of healthcare service needs of this population, the Turkish government has launched an initiative as employing Syrian doctors to provide health services to their citizens in Refugee Health Centres. In this study, we aimed to explore the social adaptation status of Syrian physicians living in Turkey using a structured questionnaire and the Social Adaptation Self Evaluation Scale (SASS). Methods: Between November 2016 and April 2018, 799 physicians who participated in "Syrian Physicians' Adaptation Training" were enrolled in the study and underwent a structured questionnaire that questioned socio-demographic data and the SASS. The participants were divided into two groups as having poor and normal/high SASS scores. The binary SASS groups were compared with some demographic data. Results: The median SASS score of the respondents was found as 43 (min. 10, max. 60, IQR 10) which can be accepted as normal. In the binary grouping, it was seen that 107 (13.39%) participants had poor social adaptation, whereas 692 (86.61%) participants had normal or high social adaptation scores. The physicians who were certain about not going back to Syria had significantly higher SASS scores. Conclusion: The social adaptation scores of the Syrian physicians were considerably high. The adaptation status was found to be associated with some characteristics like living in Turkey for a long time and having pre-knowledge about the Turkish healthcare system.

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la relación entre la vulnerabilidad ambiental y la mortalidad por causas asociadas a las condiciones medioambientales entre la población de los municipios de Campeche, Chiapas y Tabasco que forman parte de la cuenca del río Usumacinta. Se utilizó un modelo de autocorrelación espacial que permite observar la relación entre el índice de vulnerabilidad ambiental durante 2016, y la tasa de mortalidad por causas asociadas a condiciones medioambientales, variables que interrelacionadas permiten reconocer los efectos del cambio climático en la salud (SSA/INEGI). Se identificó un clúster de municipios con un elevado registro de causas de mortalidad que a su vez se encuentran correlacionados con una elevada vulnerabilidad ambiental a la que está expuesta la población

The emission of traffic pollutants such as sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and particulate matters in the atmosphere of a city affecting human population is one of the main concerns and needs attention in the present scenario. The removal of these pollutants affecting human population adversely is, therefore, very much desirable. In this paper, a nonlinear mathematical model is proposed to study the effect of traffic pollutants on human population with a subsequent control strategy in the form of introduction of liquid (water) drops for removal of these pollutants from the atmosphere. In the modelling process, four dependent variables are considered, namely the density of human population adversely affected by the traffic pollutants, the cumulative density of traffic (vehicles) which is human population density dependent, the cumulative concentration of traffic pollutants and the number density of liquid drops introduced in the polluted atmosphere to remove these pollutants. It is assumed that the cumulative concentration of traffic pollutants is directly proportional to the cumulative density of traffic (vehicles), the growth rate of which is dependent on the density of human population. It is also assumed that the growth rate of liquid drops introduced in the atmosphere to remove traffic pollutants is directly proportional to the cumulative concentration of these pollutants. The model is analysed using stability theory of differential equations and numerical simulation under two cases, viz. without control strategy and with control strategy using liquid drops. The analysis of the model reveals that due to the increase in the cumulative concentration of traffic pollutants as a result of increased traffic density, the human population is adversely affected. Further, when a control strategy in the form of introduction of liquid drops is applied to remove these pollutants, the cumulative concentration of traffic pollutants decreases leading to the increase in the density of human population. The numerical simulation has also been performed to confirm these results.

BACKGROUND: Urinary bladder cancer (UBC) is one of few cancers with an established gene-environment interaction (GxE) with smoking. However, it is unknown whether the interaction with tobacco use is present non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and characteristics of prognostic relevance. We aimed to investigate if smoking status and/or smoking intensity interact with the effect of discovered variants on key NMIBC characteristics of tumor grade, stage, size, and patient age within the Bladder Cancer Prognosis Programme (BCPP) cohort. METHODS: Analyzed sample consisted of 546 NMIBC patients with valid smoking data from the BCPP. In a previous genome-wide association study (GWAS), we have identified 61 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) potentially associated with the NMIBC characteristics of tumor stage, grade, size, and patient age. In the current analysis, we have tested these SNPs for GxE with smoking. RESULTS: Out of 61 SNPs, 10 have showed suggestion (statistical significance level of P

Background Low-frequency (20–200 Hz) noise (LFN) from wind turbines has received much public attention due to potential health concerns. This work tries to estimate the sound power level of wind turbines (LW,A (dB)) at 20–200 Hz, which are not provided by manufacturers but essential for estimating LFN exposure (LAeq) of nearby residents. Methods LW,A at 20–200 Hz at three wind farms, each with a different brand of wind turbine (Brands A, B and C, respectively) were estimated using propagation model ISO 9613-2 under different weather conditions (rain, wind speed and wind direction) and validated with LFN monitoring data. The feasibility of using validated LW,A as inputs for ISO 9613-2 to simulate residents’ exposure (LAeq) to LFN were assessed considering interferences from rain, wind speed and wind directions. Results The average LW,A at 20–200 Hz ranged between 93.2 and 100.4 dB, 97.8 and 107.2 dB, and 96.5 and 110.4 dB for turbines of Brands A, B, and C, respectively, operating under wind speeds from 2 to 12 m/s. The LW,A at wind speed of 2–8 m/s increased on average by 1.4, 1.9 and 1.7 dB per 1 m/s increase for Brands A, B and C, respectively. The differences in modeled Leq obtained through the input of LW,A into the ISO 9613-2 model and the measured LAeq for the three studied wind farms all fall within 1.5 dB. Conclusion This study successfully determined and validated the LW,A of wind turbines of three brands, and subsequent residents’ LFN exposure (with 1.5 dB difference) at three wind farms. Accurately obtaining LFN exposure will serve as the basis for assessing LFN exposure-health relationship. As wind power widely use worldwide, health impact should be assessed based on validated LFN exposure assessment.

The neural mechanisms underlying hazard perception are poorly understood as to how experience leads to better driving skills. In this study we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine experience-related changes in brain activation during hazard perception task between novice and aged drivers. Additionally, region of interest (ROI) and seed-to-voxel analyses were conducted to examine experience-related functional connectivity changes during visual attention and saliency networks between novice (n=15, age 22.13 ± 3.38 years years) and experienced (n=16, age 41.44 ± 5.83 years) drivers. Experienced drivers had significantly lower hazard perception reaction time (1.32 ± 1.09 s) and miss rates (11.42 ± 8.36 %) compared to the novice (3.58 ± 1.45 s and 39.67 ± 15.72 %, respectively). Blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) activation increased in occipital, parietal and frontal areas when executing hazard perception task in both groups. In general, during the task execution, experienced drivers showed greater activation in the occipital lobe, supramarginal gyrus (SMG), right anterior insular cortex (AIC), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and cerebellar regions compared to the novice drivers indicating more efficient visual attention and decision-making process during hazard perception task. Seed based functional analyses during the hazard perception task revealed greater connectivity between the ACC and the entire salience network (visual attention network) in the experienced group. Additionally, ACC had higher functional connectivity with the right frontal eye field (FEF), bilateral intraparietal sulcus (IPS) and lateral occipital areas in the experienced group. Our results suggest that better hazard perception in the experienced drivers is due to increase in the activation of executive attention regions and higher functional connectivity between bilateral occipital cortices and salience network. In conclusion, better hazard perception is highly dependent on emotional awareness, perception of motion velocity, spatial representation of the environment and executing control., EXCLI Journal; 19:Doc547; ISSN 1611-2156

Purpose : Complete recycling of the crop residues of sugarcane in the Philippines remains to be achieved. This study purposed to derive microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) from sugarcane leaves and test its disintegrating properties in tablet formulation. Methods: Saccharum officinarum L. (sugarcane) leaves were used to prepare MCC powder. According to the conventional method, the preparation of cellulose powder requires heating the raw material with acid and alkali followed by washing, bleaching, and sieving. Hydrolysis of the bleached product was carried out using hydrochloric acid to obtain MCC powder, and the physicochemical properties of the produced MCC powder were studied including its organoleptic properties, pH value, %loss on drying, %water soluble substances and Fouriertransform infrared (FTIR) spectrum. Results: The resulting powder was evaluated for its disintegrating property in the preparation of blank tablets, which were compared to tablets prepared using commercially available MCC. MCC powder derived from sugarcane leaves had properties at par with commercially available MCC and was in conformance with National Formulary (NF) specifications. Conclusion: Disintegrating properties were also significantly better than the commercially available MCC.

Objectives. To examine the impact of extreme heat on emergency services in Boston, MA. Methods. We conducted relative risk and time series analyses of 911 dispatches of the Boston Police Department (BPD), Boston Emergency Medical Services (BEMS), and Boston Fire Department (BFD) from November 2010 to April 2014 to assess the impact of extreme heat on emergency services. Results. During the warm season, there were 2% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0%, 5%) more BPD dispatches, 9% (95% CI = 7%, 12%) more BEMS dispatches, and 10% (95% CI = 5%, 15%) more BFD dispatches on days when the maximum temperature was 90°F or higher, which remained consistent when we considered multiple days of heat. A 10°F increase in daily maximum temperature, from 80° to 90°F, resulted in 1.016, 1.017, and 1.002 times the expected number of daily BPD, BEMS, and BFD dispatch calls, on average, after adjustment for other predictors. Conclusions. The burden of extreme heat on local emergency medical and police services may be agency-wide, and impacts on fire departments have not been previously documented. Public Health Implications. It is important to account for the societal burden of extreme heat impacts to most effectively inform climate change adaptation strategies and planning.

Commercial grade ZnO were sieved into particle size of 38 to 90 μm at room temperature. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern confirms the hexagonal wurzite structure of ZnO microparticles. Irregular shapes of ZnO microparticles were observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) confirmed the presence of Zn-O band. In addition, Uv-visible spectra (UV-Vis) were empolyed to estimate the band gap energy of ZnO microparticles.