Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of electroacupuncture on the functionality of NG2-expressing cells in perilesional brain tissue of mice following ischemic stroke

Neural/glial antigen 2 (NG2)-expressing cells has multipotent stem cell activity under cerebral ischemia. Our study examined the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) therapy (2 Hz, 1 or 3 mA, 20 minutes) at the Sishencong acupoint on motor function after ischemic insult in the brain by investigating the rehabilitative potential of NG2-derived cells in a mouse model of ischemic stroke. EA stimulation alleviated motor deficits caused by ischemic stroke, and 1 mA EA stimulation was more efficacious than 3 mA EA stimulation or positive control treatment with edaravone, a free radical scavenger. The properties of NG2-expressing cells were altered with 1 mA EA stimulation, enhancing their survival in perilesional brain tissue via reduction of tumor necrosis factor alpha expression. EA stimulation robustly activated signaling pathways related to proliferation and survival of NG2-expressing cells and increased the expression of neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor, tumor growth factor beta, and neurotrophin 3. In the perilesional striatum, EA stimulation greatly increased the number of NG2-expressing cells double-positive for oligodendrocyte, endothelial cell, and microglia/macrophage markers (CC1, CD31, and CD68). EA therapy also greatly activated brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin receptor kinase B and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta signaling. Our results indicate that EA therapy may prevent functional loss at the perilesional site by enhancing survival and differentiation of NG2-expressing cells via the activation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor -induced signaling, subsequently ameliorating motor dysfunction. The animal experiments were approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Pusan National University (approval Nos. PNU2019-2199 and PNU2019-2884) on April 8, 2019 and June 19, 2019.
The role of L-arginine metabolism in neurocritical care patients

Nitric oxide is an important mediator of vascular autoregulation and is involved in pathophysiological changes after acute neurological disorders. Nitric oxide is generated by nitric oxide synthases from the amino acid L-arginine. L-arginine can also serve as a substrate for arginases or lead to the generation of dimethylarginines, asymmetric dimethylarginine, and symmetric dimethylarginine, by methylation. Asymmetric dimethylarginine is an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase and can lead to endothelial dysfunction. This review discusses the role of L-arginine metabolism in patients suffering from acute and critical neurological disorders often requiring neuro-intensive care treatment. Conditions addressed in this review include intracerebral hemorrhage, aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, and traumatic brain injury. Recent therapeutic advances in the field are described including current randomized controlled trials for traumatic brain injuries and hemorrhagic stroke.
Digital eye strain among undergraduate medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey

Background and Objective of the Study: The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the use of online platforms for education. This may lead to digital eye strain (DES) in the student community. The objective of this study was to assess the pattern of digital device use, the prevalence of DES symptoms and assess the awareness of DES among undergraduate medical students. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study and was conducted among undergraduate medical students of a medical college in Kerala using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire. Results: Two-hundred and twenty-seven students responded to this questionnaire. Of these respondents, 90.3% (205 students) reported experiencing the ocular and extra-ocular symptoms of DES. Neck pain, headache, and watering of eyes were the most frequent symptoms. Continuous use of devices without breaks, the predominant activity on devices, the presence of refractive errors, and inappropriate control of glare on digital devices had a statistically significant association with DES. Although 79.4% of students were aware that using digital devices can cause eye strain, <20% were aware of the ideal distance for viewing digital screens and the 20-20-20 rule of taking breaks in-between screen time. Conclusion: Undergraduate medical students reported a high prevalence of DES during the COVID-19 college shutdown. Lack of timely breaks and inappropriate control of glare from monitors were associated with DES symptoms. Only a few students were aware of the ergonomic measures to be adopted during device use. Educating undergraduate medical students about DES is essential to curb this rising problem.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards Covid-19 among Nigerian healthcare workers during the Covid-19 pandemic: A single centre survey

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide. Aims: Being a novel viral disease, we sought to evaluate the knowledge and practice of doctors and nurses in a tertiary hospital regarding the disease. Subjects and Methods: Using a self-administered questionnaire, respondents were asked questions on the cause, clinical features, and prevention of COVID-19. Results: We studied 409 respondents (238 doctors and 171 nurses) with a mean age of 34 ± 7 years and a median length of experience of five (IQR 2-9) years. The mean knowledge score was 9.6 ± 1.2 out of a maximum of 12 points with 337 (82.4%) respondents having good knowledge. The majority of respondents (62.8%) had not been trained on infection prevention and control since the outbreak of the pandemic. Only 95 (23.2%) had seen COVID-19 Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) displayed in the hospital. The use of the personal protective equipment (PPE) kit comprising the N-95 mask, face shield, gown, and shoes was seen by 194 (47.4%) respondents in recent times. A total of 397 (97.0%) respondents felt they were at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 relative to the general populace. Measures taken to prevent COVID-19 included: wearing of face mask (68.7%), hand gloves (78.2%), frequent use of hand sanitizers (84.1%), frequent hand washing (84.8%), the daily wash of uniforms and ward coats (44.5%), daily cleaning of footwear (31.7%), and avoidance of taking home clothing and footwear worn in the hospital (54.2%). Conclusion: Despite having good knowledge of transmission and clinical features of SARS-CoV 2, the utilization of protective measures by HCW in this study is unsatisfactory.
Morpholino studies shed light on the signaling pathways regulating axon regeneration in lampreys

Lampreys are one of the most ancient extant vertebrates and they have become an animal model of interest for the study of spontaneous axon regeneration after a traumatic central nervous system injury. Contrary to most mammals, lampreys recover locomotion after a complete spinal cord injury (SCI). During recovery from SCI, some of the descending axons in lampreys regenerate through the injury site and reinnervate caudal levels of the spinal cord. Interestingly, the brainstem of lampreys contains 36 giant descending neurons that can be identified individually and that show very different survival and regenerative abilities after a complete SCI (Jacobs et al., 1997; see BarreiroIglesias, 2015), even when their axons are found in similar locations in a spinal cord that is permissive for axonal regrowth. Some of these identifiable neurons are considered “good” regenerators (they regenerate their axon more than 55% of the times) and others are considered “bad” regenerators (they regenerate their axon less than 50% of the times) (Figure 1). This offers a model in which the intrinsic mechanisms regulating neuronal survival and axonal regrowth can be studied in vivo and at the level of individual neurons. First, one can use this model to find genes showing differential expression between “good” and “bad” regenerator neurons, and then try to perform functional studies by manipulating their expression or their action. As in any other animal model, drugs can be used for this purpose (Fogerson et al., 2016; Romaus-Sanjurjo et al., 2018; Sobrido-Cameán et al., 2019, 2020), but ideally genetic manipulations are also needed to confirm drug effects or to manipulate the expression of genes for which no drugs are available.
Critical role of mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 in acrolein sequestering in rat spinal cord injury

Lipid peroxidation-derived aldehydes, such as acrolein, the most reactive aldehyde, have emerged as key culprits in sustaining post-spinal cord injury (SCI) secondary pathologies leading to functional loss. Strong evidence suggests that mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2), a key oxidoreductase and powerful endogenous anti-aldehyde machinery, is likely important for protecting neurons from aldehydes-mediated degeneration. Using a rat model of spinal cord contusion injury and recently discovered ALDH2 activator (Alda-1), we planned to validate the aldehyde-clearing and neuroprotective role of ALDH2. Over an acute 2 day period post injury, we found that ALDH2 expression was significantly lowered post-SCI, but not so in rats given Alda-1. This lower enzymatic expression may be linked to heightened acrolein-ALDH2 adduction, which was revealed in co-immunoprecipitation experiments. We have also found that administration of Alda-1 to SCI rats significantly lowered acrolein in the spinal cord, and reduced cyst pathology. In addition, Alda-1 treatment also resulted in significant improvement of motor function and attenuated post-SCI mechanical hypersensitivity up to 28 days post-SCI. Finally, ALDH2 was found to play a critical role in in vitro protection of PC12 cells from acrolein exposure. It is expected that the outcome of this study will broaden and enhance anti-aldehyde strategies in combating post-SCI neurodegeneration and potentially bring treatment to millions of SCI victims. All animal work was approved by Purdue Animal Care and Use Committee (approval No. 1111000095) on January 1, 2021.
Foramen magnum meningioma: Series of 20 cases. Complications, risk factors for relapse, and follow-up

Introduction: Meningiomas account for 2.2% to 2.5% of all cerebral tumors, of which only 2% are located in the foramen magnum. Foramen magnum meningiomas (FMMs) are commonly found in women, with a mean age at onset of 52 years old. They generally behave more aggressively than other meningiomas. Materials and Methods: We performed epidemiological, anatomical and surgical analyses of 20 patients diagnosed with FMMs who underwent surgical treatment from 1999 to 2019 at Santa Paula Hospital in Sao Paulo. This case series was compared with previously published ones to better understand this relatively rare disease. Results: Twenty patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 110 months. Their mean age was 37.8 years old. The mean preoperative Karnofsky performance status scale (KPS) was 84%. We found a female (65%) and left hemisphere predominance (50%). Involvement of both hemispheres was found in 25% of patients. FMM locations were anterior, anterolateral, lateral and posterior, in 45%, 35%, 10%, and 10%, respectively. Simpson resection grades I, II, and III were achieved in 25%, 60%, and 15% of cases, respectively. Mean postoperative KPS was 79%. Three patients with anterior and bilateral located meningiomas had a worse postoperative KPS in comparison to the preoperative one. Conclusion: Anterior and bilateral FMMs seem to be related to a worse prognosis. A gross total resection can reduce the recurrence rates. The KPS is worse in patients with recurrence.
VENÖZ BACAK ÜLSERLERİNİN TEDAVİSİ TREATMENT OF VENOUS LEG ULCERS

Venous ulcerations are extremely common, accounting for a large proportion of all lower extremity ulceration and affect each socioeconomic class. Approximately 1% of the population is affected for development of venous ulceration at some point in their lives. These ulcerations reduce the quality of life and limit individual social function. Our aim is to discuss the results of treatment in patients with venous ulcers. Fourteen consecutive patients with unilateral leg skin ulceration due to venous insufficiency were included in this study. There were 8 female and 6 male patients, ranging in age from 28 to 79 with a mean age of 51.3±15.9 years. The diameter of the ulcers ranged from 12 to 43 mm. Three patients with superficial venous insufficiency were surgically treated with stripping of the long saphenous vein. The remaining 11 patients were treated with compression and wound care together with venoactive drug therapy. In 3 patients who underwent varicose vein surgery, ulcerated wounds have healed within 4 months, while the other patients' ulcerations have healed within 9-12 months. The combination of wound care and compression application with venoactive drug therapy is the mainstay in the management venous ulceration. However, in patients with superficial venous insufficiency alone, surgical intervention may be performed to avoid recurrences.
The effect of the self-management oriented 5A nursing model on the QOL and early movement compliance of patients with cervical carcinoma after surgery

Objective: This study was designed to explore the effect of the self-management oriented 5a nursing model on the QOL and early movement compliance of patients with cervical carcinoma after surgery. Methods: 84 patients who underwent surgery for cervical carcinoma in our hospital were included and divided into a control group (n=42) and an observation group (n=42) and retrospectively analyzed. Both groups were routinely nursed, and for the observation group, a self-management oriented 5A nursing model was additionally adopted. The two groups were compared in terms of QOL, early movement compliance, self-efficacy, VAS, SAS, and SDS scores, and the incidence of complications. Results: After nursing, both groups were improved in terms of QOL, their overall health condition scores, and VAS at 4 h, 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h, which were more significant in the observation group (P<0.05). In addition, the observation group excelled over the control group in early movement compliance (P<0.05) and self-efficacy scores after an elevation, but no significant change was observed in the control group (P<0.05), the SAS and SDS scores (P<0.05), or the incidence of complications after surgery (P<0.05). Conclusion: The selfmanagement oriented 5A nursing model can improve QOL, early movement compliance, and the self-management ability of patients with cervical carcinoma after surgery, and can reduce the pain, anxiety, depression, and complications they suffer.
Pregnancy and Childbirth in Baramulla District of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Background: Although medicinal plants have long been beneficial to women's health, understanding regarding their usage during pregnancy and childbirth is scarce. This is the first research of its kind in the study area, with the aim of documenting and preserving traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used during pregnancy and childbirth. Materials and methods: Field surveys were carried out from August 2018 to December 2020 in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. Information was gathered through group discussions, field tours and personal interviews using standard questionnaire with the tribal people, traditional healers, midwives and pregnant women. The data collected was analyzed through Use value (UV) and Informant Consensus factor (ICF). Results: A total of 60 medicinal plant species belonging to 56 genera and 30 families were reported to be commonly utilized by women for treating various health issues during pregnancy and childbirth. The Lamiaceae was found to be the most prevalent plant family, with leaves being the most regularly used plant part. Of all other methods of remedy preparation decoction was reported to be the most preferred. Childbirth had the highest ICF value and the most widely accepted medicinal plants were Cydonia oblonga, Malva neglecta, Thymus linearis, Geranium wallichianum, Achyranthes aspera, Taraxacum officinale and Ajuga bracteosa as per the Use Value. Conclusion: The current findings highlight the need for more in-depth research into the phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological aspects of commonly used medicinal plants for pregnancy and childbirth related health issues in order to provide reliable information to primary users and to develop novel drugs.
Effect of emodin on intestinal flora in the treatment of iodine-induced thyroiditis in NOD mice

Objective: This study aimed to explore the effect of emodin on intestinal flora in the treatment of iodineinduced thyroiditis in NOD mice. Methods: NOD mice were divided into three groups: control group, model group and emodin group with 10 mice in each group. EAT (experimental autoimmune thyroiditis) animal model was established by inducing NOD mice with iodine in the model group. EAT mice were treated with emodin in the emodin group. The levels of TgAb and T4 in plasma of mice and the changes of intestinal flora measured from feces of mice in each group were detected by ELISA and high throughput sequencing. Results: 1. Compared with the control group, the expression of TgAb in serum was clearly increased, and the expression of T4 in serum was clearly decreased in the model group. Compared with the model group, the expression of TgAb in serum was clearly decreased, and the expression of T4 in serum was clearly increased in the emodin group. 2. The expressions of Dorea, Bacteroides and Prevotella in the model group were higher than those in the control group, and the expressions of Dorea, Bacteroides and Prevotella in the emodin group were lower than those in the model group with statistical differences. Conclusion: 1. Emodin has certain immunosuppressive effects on thyroiditis in NOD mice. 2. Emodin can affect the expression of intestinal flora such as Dorea, Bacteroides and Prevotella, thus inhibiting thyroiditis in NOD mice.
Unleashing the Potential of Crowd Work: The Need for a Post-Taylorism Crowdsourcing Model

Paid crowdsourcing connects task requesters to a globalized, skilled workforce that is available 24/7. In doing so, this new labor model promises not only to complete work faster and more efficiently than any previous approach but also to harness the best of our collective capacities. Nevertheless, for almost a decade now, crowdsourcing has been limited to addressing rather straightforward and simple tasks. Large-scale innovation, creativity, and wicked problem-solving are still largely out of the crowd’s reach. In this opinion paper, we argue that existing crowdsourcing practices bear significant resemblance to the management paradigm of Taylorism. Although criticized and often abandoned by modern organizations, Taylorism principles are prevalent in many crowdsourcing platforms, which employ practices such as the forceful decomposition of all tasks regardless of their knowledge nature and the disallowing of worker interactions, which diminish worker motivation and performance. We argue that a shift toward post-Taylorism is necessary to enable the crowd address at scale the complex problems that form the backbone of today’s knowledge economy. Drawing from recent literature, we highlight four design rules that can help make this shift, namely, endorsing social crowd networks, encouraging teamwork, scaffolding ownership of one’s work within the crowd, and leveraging algorithm-guided worker self-coordination.
Data-driven Vehicle Routing in Last Mile Delivery

This report presents a methodological approach developed for the Last Mile Routing Research Challenge organized by Amazon and supported by the MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics in 2021. We develop a prescriptive method based on rules that are extracted through descriptive analysis of the data. The method involves solving the traveling salesman problem on a transformed graph. In this transformation, we only use the zone_ids for modifying the travel times between node pairs. The method is effective in generating high-quality solutions. The average score that the model achieved when tested locally is 0.0367 on the 1107 routes from the dataset, which share similar characteristics to the ones in the model apply phase. This method received the third place in the routing challenge.
CMAR_A_342213 9075..9083

1Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, People’s Republic of China; 2Beijing Chaoyang Sanhuan Cancer Hospital, Beijing, 100021, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Breast Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, People’s Republic of China Background: Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) accounts for 24% of all soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) and this STS subtype has high metastatic potential. Previous studies indicated the best median progression-free survival (mPFS) time was 9.2 months and the best overall response rate (ORR) was 30.9%. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of epirubicin combined with temozolomide (EPI-TMZ) for treatment of advanced LMS. Methods: This was a retrospective review of the records of patients with advanced LMS at the National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College. All patients initiated EPI-TMZ treatment between January 2018 and December 2020. Results: We examined 15 patients who received EPI-TMZ for LMS. This was a first-line treatment in 6 patients, a secondor third-line treatment in 7 patients, and a fourth-line treatment in 2 patients. At the time of data cutoff (April 25, 2021), the median PFS was 10 months, 1 patient had clinical complete response (cCR), 7 had partial response (PR), and 7 had stable disease (SD). The overall response rate (ORR) was 53.3% (8/15) and the disease control rate (DCR) was 100.0% (15/15). The most common treatment-related adverse effects were leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and oral mucositis. One patient had severe adverse effect (febrile neutropenia), but there were no treatment-related deaths. Conclusion: EPI-TMZ is potentially effective for treatment of advanced LMS, and the adverse effects appear tolerable. EPI-TMZ provided better outcomes than reported in previous studies of other treatments for advanced LMS.