The role of D-dimer in relation to the clinical course of patients with COVID-19

In recent times,systemic coagulation,fibrinolysis,and cardio-pulmonary injury has been recognized in patients with COVID-19,the clinical disease state caused by infection of the novel coronavirus,SARS-CoV-2.While originally believed to be a primary lower respiratory infection,as more cases are identified,treated,and examined,hematologic complications are being identified as a significant driver of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease.Elevated D-dimer levels(>1μg/ml)on hospital admission have been identified as being associated with increased mortality[1],and levels greater than 2μg/ml predict fatal outcomes in patients[2].Alongside these results,there is also a greater risk of thrombotic events in COVID-19 patients,with risk increasing to as high as 31%[3],and pulmonary embolism risk increases proportionately alongside this[4].Whilst understanding of the pathophysiology is incomplete,there is clearly a component of coagulative disorder in these patients.D-dimer could prove a valuable tool to identify patients who are likely to have poorer outcomes and allow for prophylactic treatment and monitoring of secondary complications(Fig.1).     

RAS-MAPK in ALK targeted therapy resistance

The clinical success of ALK targeted therapy is limited by resistance. To identify rational co-targeting strategies to enhance clinical outcomes, we explored the molecular basis of ALK oncogene dependence in ALK gene rearrangement positive (ALK+) lung adenocarcinoma. We discovered that the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway is the critical downstream pathway necessary for ALK+ tumor cell survival. Upfront co-targeting of ALK plus MEK enhanced response and forestalled resistance in preclinical ALK+ tumor models, providing rationale for a new approach the treatment of ALK+ patients.     

Efficacy of Elettaria cardamomum L. (Zingiberaceae) essential oil on the two spotted spider mite,Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch is the major pest of various plants worldwide. Now the control is dependent on the use of chemical pesticides. Plant compounds are recently known as biopesticides. Essential oil of Elettaria cardamomum was researched on repellent and oviposition inhibition of T. urticae. The LC₅₀ values of fumigant toxicity of this oil on adults and eggs of the two spotted spider mite were 7.26 and 8.82?μL/L air, respectively. Also LT₅₀ value of essential oil at 45?μL/L air was 23.86?h and LT₅₀ value of essential oil at 60?μL/L air was 9.01?h. In addition, different concentrations of the essential oil of E. cardamomum significantly affected oviposition deterrence and repellency of adults. The results of this study indicated that essential oil of E. cardamomum may be considered as a biopesticide to control two spotted spider mites.