bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging agents that target signaling pathways in cancer stem cells
Authors: Yang Yue , Li Xiaoman , Wang Ting , Guo Qianqian , Xi Tao , Zheng Lufeng
Published: May 2020

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to the initiation, recurrence, and metastasis of cancer; however, there are still no drugs targeting CSCs in clinical application. There are several signaling pathways playing critical roles in CSC progression, such as the Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, Hippo, and autophagy signaling pathways. Additionally, targeting the ferroptosis signaling pathway was recently shown to specifically kill CSCs. Therefore, targeting these pathways may suppress CSC progression. The structure of small-molecule drugs shows a good spatial dispersion, and its chemical properties determine its good druggability and pharmacokinetic properties. These characteristics make small-molecule drugs show a great advantage in drug development, which is increasingly popular in the market. Thus, in this review, we will summarize the current researches on the small-molecule compounds suppressing CSC progression, including inhibitors of Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, and autophagy pathways, and activators of Hippo and ferroptosis pathways. These small-molecule compounds emphasize CSC importance in tumor progression and propose a new strategy to treat cancer in clinic via targeting CSCs.
Managing acute pain in HIV+/AIDS patients: knowledge and practice trends among emergency physicians of major tertiary care centers of a developing country
Authors: Ahmed Aliya , Afshan Gauhar , Irshad Khan Robyna , Afzal Badar , Jamali Seemin , Farooq Nighat , Saleem Sarosh , Naeem Rubaba , Khan Uzma
Published: May 2020

Objective

To assess knowledge and practice trends in managing acute pain in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV+) or having acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) among emergency physicians of four tertiary care hospitals. Acute pain management in such patients is complex because of multiple concomitant painful conditions related to their disease. After obtaining ethical approval and written informed consent, emergency physicians were requested to fill out a questionnaire.

Results

Out of 84 physicians who participated, 49 had managed HIV+/AIDS patients during the preceding year. Out of the 49, 30 (61.2%) physicians stated that they used a combination of analgesics for acute pain in these patients. Forty-two (50%) out of the 84 participants believed that routine doses of opioids were adequate for pain relief, while 42 (50%) agreed that pain management was more complex in these patients mainly due to presence of multiple coexisting problems and psychological issues. Only 26 (31%) respondents considered that pain was under-reported and under-treated in these patients, mainly because physicians were more focused on patients’ other disease related complications and issues. Formulation of guidelines are recommended for effective acute pain management in these patients encompassing associated issues, including concomitant painful conditions, opioid dependence, psychiatric problems, etc.
Efflux pump activity, biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance profile of Klebsiella spp. isolated from clinical samples at Lagos University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Akinpelu Sharon , Ajayi Abraham , Smith Stella I. , Adeleye Adeyemi I.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Nosocomial and community acquired multidrug resistantKlebsiellainfections are wide spread resulting in high morbidity and mortality due to limited number of antibiotics treatment options. This study investigated efflux pump activity, biofilm forming potential and antibiotic susceptibility profile ofKlebsiellaspp. isolated from clinical samples in a tertiary hospital in Lagos Nigeria. Eighteen clinicalKlebsiellaspp. isolated from urine, blood and sputum were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing using the disc diffusion method. Efflux pump activity was evaluated by the ethidium bromide cartwheel method and biofilm forming ability was determined by the tissue culture plate technique.

Results

All 18 (100%)Klebsiellaisolates were resistant to cefuroxime, cefixime, amoxicillin − clavulanate, ampicillin + cloxacillin, cefotaxime, and imipenem. Seventeen (94.4%) were resistant to ofloxacin while sixteen (88.9%) were resistance to nalidixic acid, Gentamicin and levofloxacin. AllKlebsiellaisolates possessed active efflux pump with the ability to form biofilm. However, their biofilm forming capabilities varied as 4 (22.2%) were strong, 3 (16.7%) were moderate and 11 (61.1%) were weak biofilm formers. Findings in this study reveal multiple factors at play in mediating the high level of antibiotic resistance observed inKlebsiellaisolates. Hence a multifaceted approach is advocated in managing the infections caused by the pathogen.
Partial reduction of amyloid β production by β-secretase inhibitors does not decrease synaptic transmission
Authors: Satir Tugce Munise , Agholme Lotta , Karlsson Anna , Karlsson Mattias , Karila Paul , Illes Sebastian , Bergström Petra , Zetterberg Henrik
Published: May 2020

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Cerebral deposition of Aβ peptides, especially Aβ42, is considered the major neuropathological hallmark of AD and the putative cause of AD-related neurotoxicity. Aβ peptides are produced by sequential proteolytic processing of APP, with β-secretase (BACE) being the initiating enzyme. Therefore, BACE has been considered an attractive therapeutic target in AD research and several BACE inhibitors have been tested in clinical trials, but so far, all have had negative outcomes or even led to worsening of cognitive function. AD can be triggered by Aβ years before the first symptoms appear and one reason for the failures could be that the clinical trials were initiated too late in the disease process. Another possible explanation could be that BACE inhibition alters physiological APP processing in a manner that impairs synaptic function, causing cognitive deterioration.

Methods

The aim of this study was to investigate if partial BACE inhibition, mimicking the putative protective effect of the Icelandic mutation in the APP gene, could reduce Aβ generation without affecting synaptic transmission. To investigate this, we used an optical electrophysiology platform, in which effects of compounds on synaptic transmission in cultured neurons can be monitored. We employed this method on primary cortical rat neuronal cultures treated with three different BACE inhibitors (BACE inhibitor IV, LY2886721, and lanabecestat) and monitored Aβ secretion into the cell media.

Results

We found that all three BACE inhibitors tested decreased synaptic transmission at concentrations leading to significantly reduced Aβ secretion. However, low-dose BACE inhibition, resulting in less than a 50% decrease in Aβ secretion, did not affect synaptic transmission for any of the inhibitors tested.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that Aβ production can be reduced by up to 50%, a level of reduction of relevance to the protective effect of the Icelandic mutation, without causing synaptic dysfunction. We therefore suggest that future clinical trials aimed at prevention of Aβ build-up in the brain should aim for a moderate CNS exposure of BACE inhibitors to avoid side effects on synaptic function.
Treatment of rickets and dyslipidemia in twins with progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 2
Authors: Sura Sunitha R. , Germain-Lee Emily L.
Published: May 2020

Background

Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis Type 2 (PFIC2) is a rare congenital cholestatic liver disease that progresses to end stage liver disease. It is associated with fat soluble vitamin D deficiency rickets and severe dyslipidemia; however, treatment of these secondary effects remains a challenge.

Case presentation

One year old twin males born to a mother with intrahepatic cholestasis during pregnancy presented with jaundice, pruritus and failure to thrive. Lab evaluation revealed significant transaminitis, direct hyperbilirubinemia and normal gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT). Genetic studies confirmed PFIC2. Further evaluation for fat soluble vitamin deficiencies revealed severe vitamin D deficiency rickets. High dose vitamin D replacement therapy using Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) 50,000 IU three times a week over 10 weeks led to the improvement of Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy (25-OH) serum levels and resolution of rickets. Dyslipidemia with very low high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and high triglycerides was more profound in our patients compared to what has been described in the literature thus far. The dyslipidemia improved 2 months after internal biliary diversion.

Conclusions

Higher doses of Vitamin D therapy are needed for treatment of rickets secondary to cholestasis. Extremely low HDL-C levels are characteristic of PFIC and improve with treatment of underlying cholestasis. Maternal intrahepatic cholestasis during pregnancy can be an early warning sign.
Correction to: Towards the restoration of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor for large mammals in Panama: comparing multi-species occupancy to movement models
Authors: Meyer Ninon F. V. , Moreno Ricardo , Reyna-Hurtado Rafael , Signer Johannes , Balkenhol Niko
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Clinical examination factors that predict delayed recovery in individuals with concussion
Authors: Martinez Corina , Christopherson Zachary , Lake Ashley , Myers Heather , Bytomski Jeffrey R. , Butler Robert J. , Cook Chad E.
Published: May 2020

Background

Risk factors for prolonged recovery after concussion have been well researched, but specific objective clinical examination findings have not. This study examined whether clinical examination results could predict delayed recovery (DR) in individuals with concussion diagnosis. A secondary aim explored the influence of early examination on individual prognosis.

Methods

The study was a retrospective, observational cohort design that included 163 individuals seen at a concussion clinic who were followed longitudinally until cleared for sports activity. Cognitive, visual, balance, vestibular, and cervical clinical testing and symptom assessment were performed at initial evaluation. DR was calculated by taking the median value associated with time to clearance for activity. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was calculated to determine odds ratios (and 95% confidence intervals) for the odds of DR with presence or absence of each clinical finding. Multivariate analyses were used to define the best predictors of DR.

Results

80 of 163 individuals were considered delayed in their clearance to activity. Cognitive impairments (OR = 2.72; 95%CI = 1.40, 5.28), visual exam findings (OR = 2.98; 95%CI = 1.31, 6.80), and vestibular exam findings (OR = 4.28; 95%CI = 2.18, 8.43) all increased the odds of a DR. Multivariate modeling retained cognitive symptoms and clinical examination-vestibular testing as predictors of delayed recovery. Time to examination after injury was a mediator for DR.

Conclusions

The clinical examination provides value in identifying individuals who are likely to exhibit a delayed clearance. In particular, vestibular impairments identified clinically at initial evaluation and cognitive symptoms were associated with increased odds of a DR to return to activity. Our data support that early implementation of a standardized clinical examination can help to identify individuals who may be more at risk of prolonged recovery from concussion.
Can emotional design really evoke emotion in multimedia learning?
Authors: Li Jiansheng , Luo Chuanlan , Zhang Qi , Shadiev Rustam
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of emotional design on learners’ performance and emotions. If emotional design has any effects on learners’ performance and emotions, then we attempted to explore dimensions that are accounted for such effects. 316 Chinese university students participated in this study. The students were divided into two groups: NED group - students in this group learned material based on neutral design, and PED group - students in this group learned material based on positive design. We explored the differences between two groups in student learning performance as well as emotion. Prior knowledge, retention, and transfer tests were also carried out and outcomes were compared across two groups. In addition, student emotion was measured using a positive affect scale and biofeedback instruments. The results showed that PED group outperformed NED group on retention and transfer tests. However, insignificant difference was found between two groups on student emotion. Our results suggest that, although the effect of emotional design was insignificant on student emotion, it was significant on student learning performance (i.e. on retention and transfer tests). Based on our results, several implications were drawn and suggestions were made for educators and researchers.
Extended-spectrum ß-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli among humans, chickens and poultry environments in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Aworh Mabel Kamweli , Kwaga Jacob , Okolocha Emmanuel , Harden Lyndy , Hull Dawn , Hendriksen Rene S. , Thakur Siddhartha
Published: May 2020

Background

Globally, chicken is known to be a reservoir for the spread of antimicrobial resistance genes to humans. In Nigeria, antimicrobial drugs are readily accessible for use in poultry production, either for preventive or therapeutic purposes. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-EC) are transmissible to humans because of their zoonotic potentials. People working very closely with chickens either on farms or markets are at greater risk. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and zoonotic transmission of ESBL-EC among poultry-workers, chickens, and poultry environments in Abuja, Nigeria.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among workers, chickens and poultry environment in selected farms/chicken markets in Abuja. Stool, faecal, and environmental samples were collected from apparently healthy workers, chickens, and farm/market environments from December 2018 to April 2019. Data were collected electronically using an open data kit (ODK) installed on a Smartphone. Antimicrobial resistance was determined using broth micro-dilution methods against a panel of 14 antimicrobial agents. We carried out the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of the isolates. Data were analyzed by computing frequencies, proportions and spearman’s correlation (ρ).

Results

Of 429 samples, 26.8% (n = 115) were positive for Escherichia coli (E. coli). Of the 115 E. coli isolates, 32.2% (n = 37) were confirmed ESBL producers by phenotypic characterization. Prevalence of ESBL-EC was highest among both poultry-workers (37.8%; n = 14) and chickens (37.8%; n = 14) followed by the environment (24.3%; n = 9). Both human and chicken isolates showed similar patterns of multidrug resistance to tested antimicrobials with a positive correlation (ρ = 0.91). Among ESBL producers, we observed the dissemination of blaCTX-M (10.8%; n = 4) genes. The coexistence of blaCTX-M-15 and blaTEM-1 genes was observed in 8.1% (n = 3) of the isolates, out of which (66.7%; n = 2) were chicken isolates from the farm, while a single human isolate was from the chicken market.

Conclusions

ESBL-EC isolates were prevalent amongst apparently healthy individuals, chickens and the poultry farm/market environment in Abuja. It is important to educate healthcare workers that people in proximity with poultry are a high-risk group for faecal carriage of ESBL-EC, hence pose a higher risk to the general population for the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
The pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 2 (PDK2) is associated with conidiation, mycelial growth, and pathogenicity in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Gao Tao , He Dan , Liu Xin , Ji Fang , Xu Jianhong , Shi Jianrong
Published: May 2020

Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) is a mitochondrial enzyme in a variety of eukaryotes, including the plant pathogen Fusarium graminearum. This enzyme can reduce the oxidation of glucose to acetyl-coA by phosphorylation and selectively inhibits the activity of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), which is a kind of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC). In this study, we investigated the F. graminearum pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase encoded by FgPDK2, which is a homologue of Neurospora crassa PDK2. The disruption of the FgPDK2 gene led to several phenotypic defects including effects on mycelial growth, conidiation, pigmentation, and pathogenicity. The mutants also showed decreased resistance to osmotic stress and cell membrane/wall-damaging agents. The FgPDK2 deletion mutant exhibited reduced virulence. All of these defects were restored by genetic complementation of the mutant with the complete FgPDK2 gene. Overall, the results demonstrated that FgPDK2 is crucial for the growth of F. graminearum and can be exploited as a potential molecular target for novel fungicides to control Fusarium head blight caused by F. graminearum.

Graphical abstract
Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the liver: an unexpected pathological finding
Authors: Tuminello Fabio , Castiglione Davide , Broggi Giuseppe , Vecchio Giada Maria , Basile Antonio , Puleo Stefano , Pesce Antonio
Published: May 2020

Background

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the liver is a very rare cancer requiring a complete diagnostic investigation, as it presents some differences from other primary hepatic malignancies. We describe the case of an elderly patient with primitive squamous cell carcinoma of the liver treated by percutaneous microwave ablation and transarterial chemoembolization.

Case presentation

Although the pathogenesis remains uncertain, a possible transformation of the biliary epithelium caused by chronic inflammation or metaplasia and subsequent malignant transformation of preexisting benign hepatic cysts has been suggested. A critical review of the existing literature was performed by focusing on the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and the suggested therapeutic strategies.

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary approach is needed to face rare hepatic malignancies where there are no clear guidelines.
Developing a capacity-building programme to support a mental health service modernisation pilot project in Lviv region of Western Ukraine
Authors: Power Tracey , Suvalo Orest
Published: May 2020

This paper reflects on the development of a capacity-building programme to support a mental health service modernisation pilot project based in the Lviv region of Western Ukraine. National programmes that aim to modernise mental health services now have the experience of other countries on which to draw. The challenges faced by such modernisers have much in common. Nevertheless, although there are lessons to be learned from what has worked well elsewhere, we caution that the local context can have a profound effect on the successful implementation of plans based on best practice.
The Changing Health Insurance Coverage Landscape in the United States
Authors: Yabroff K. Robin , Valdez Samuel , Jacobson Mireille , Han Xuesong , Fendrick A. Mark
Published: May 2020

Changes in the health insurance coverage landscape in the United States during the past decade have important implications for receipt and affordability of cancer care. In this paper, we summarize evidence for the association between health insurance coverage and cancer prevention and treatment. We then discuss ongoing changes in health care coverage, including implementation of provisions of the Affordable Care Act, increasing prevalence of high-deductible health insurance plans, and factors that affect health care delivery, with a focus on vertical integration of hospitals and providers. We summarize the evidence for the effects of the changes in health coverage on care and discuss areas for future research with the goal of informing efforts to improve cancer care delivery and outcomes in the United States.
Plasma Homocysteine and Cardiovascular Organ Damage in a Population with a High Prevalence of Risk Factors
Authors: Kozakova Michaela , Morizzo Carmela , Penno Giuseppe , Shore Angela C , Nilsson Jan , Palombo Carlo
Published: May 2020

Purpose

It is unclear whether plasma homocysteine (Hcy) has a direct noxious impact on the cardiovascular (CV) system or whether its association with cardiovascular events (CVEs) is mediated by established risk factors. To explore the role of Hcy in CV impairment, the study evaluated cross-sectional relationships between plasma Hcy and indices of CV organ damage together with the associations of these indices with the history of CVEs.

Methods

In 269 patients with a high prevalence of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, the carotid intima-media thickness, ankle–brachial index (ABI), reactive hyperemic index, carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), left ventricular (LV) mass, and cardiac index were measured.

Results

132 patients had carotid plaque, 31 ABI < 0.90, 126 endothelial dysfunction, 66 increased cfPWV, 125 LV hypertrophy (LVH), 153 decreased cardiac index, and 115 a history of CVEs. Plasma Hcy levels were related to LV mass and ABI, after adjustment for covariates and creatinine. Significantly higher Hcy levels were found in patients with LVH (8.5 [4.4] vs 7.6 [2.8] μmol/L; adjusted P = .001) and ABI < 0.9 (10.4 [3.8] vs 7.9 [3.4] μmol/L; adjusted P = .001) than in those with LV mass and ABI within limits. Hcy levels were comparable between patients with and without carotid plaques, increased arterial stiffness, impaired endothelial, and LV pump function. Within markers of CV organ damage, only LVH was associated with a history of CVEs.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated an independent association between Hcy and LV mass as well as between LVH and a history of CVEs and suggests that LVH may represent 1 of the pathophysiologic links between Hcy and CV risk.
Technologies to Optimize the Care of Severe COVID-19 Patients for Health Care Providers Challenged by Limited Resources
Authors: Rubulotta Francesca , Soliman-Aboumarie Hatem , Filbey Kevin , Geldner Goetz , Kuck Kai , Ganau Mario , Hemmerling Thomas M.
Published: May 2020

Health care systems are belligerently responding to the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a specific condition, whose distinctive features are severe hypoxemia associated with (>50% of cases) normal respiratory system compliance.
1
When a patient requires intubation and invasive ventilation, the outcome is poor,
2–4
and the length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) is usually 2 or 3 weeks.
2
In this article, the authors review several technological devices, which could support health care providers at the bedside to optimize the care for COVID-19 patients who are sedated, paralyzed, and ventilated. Particular attention is provided to the use of videolaryngoscopes (VL) because these can assist anesthetists to perform a successful intubation outside the ICU while protecting health care providers from this viral infection. Authors will also review processed electroencephalographic (EEG) monitors which are used to better titrate sedation and the train-of-four monitors which are utilized to better administer neuromuscular blocking agents in the view of sparing limited pharmacological resources. COVID-19 can rapidly exhaust human and technological resources too within the ICU. This review features a series of technological advancements that can significantly improve the care of patients requiring isolation. The working conditions in isolation could cause gaps or barriers in communication, fatigue, and poor documentation of provided care. The available technology has several advantages including (a) facilitating appropriate paperless documentation and communication between all health care givers working in isolation rooms or large isolation areas; (b) testing patients and staff at the bedside using smart point-of-care diagnostics (SPOCD) to confirm COVID-19 infection; (c) allowing diagnostics and treatment at the bedside through point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and thromboelastography (TEG); (d) adapting the use of anesthetic machines and the use of volatile anesthetics. Implementing technologies for safeguarding health care providers as well as monitoring the limited pharmacological resources are paramount. Only by leveraging new technologies, it will be possible to sustain and support health care systems during the expected long course of this pandemic.
Use of Anesthesia Machines in a Critical Care Setting During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic
Authors: Haina Kent M. K.
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic created an unprecedented need for mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients. To meet this increased demand, some facilities were forced to use anesthesia gas machines (AGMs) as intensive care unit (ICU) ventilators. While an off-label use, AGM manufacturers, the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists have guidelines for AGM use in the ICU, however, there is scant literature describing their use. This article describes our experiences at New York University Langone Medical Center using AGMs in the ICU for ventilating critically ill COVID-19 patients.
Mussels' acclimatization to high, variable temperatures is lost slowly upon transfer to benign conditions
Authors: Moyen Nicole E. , Somero George N. , Denny Mark W.
Published: May 2020

Climate change is increasing the temperature variability animals face, and thermal acclimatization allows animals to adjust adaptively to this variability. While the rate of heat-acclimatization has received some study, little is known about how long these adaptive changes remain without continuing exposure to heat stress. This study explored the rate at which field-acclimatization states are lost when temperature variability is minimized during constant submersion. California mussels (Mytilus californianus) with different acclimatization states were collected from high- and low-zone sites (∼12°C vs. ∼5°C daily temperature ranges, respectively) and then kept submerged at 15°C for eight weeks. Each week, mussels’ cardiac thermal performance was measured as a metric of acclimatization state; critical (Tcrit) and flatline (FLT) temperatures were recorded. Across eight weeks of constant submersion high-zone mussels’ mean Tcrit decreased by 1.07°C from baseline, but low-zone mussels’ mean Tcrit was unchanged. High- and low-zone mussels’ mean maximum heart rate (HR) and resting HR decreased ∼12% and 35%, respectively. FLT was unchanged in both groups. These data suggest that Tcrit and HR are more physiologically plastic in response to the narrowing of an animal's daily temperature range than is FLT, and that an animal's prior acclimatization state (high vs. low) influences the acclimatory capacity of Tcrit. Approximately two months were required for the high-zone mussels’ cardiac thermal performance to reach that of the low-zone mussels, suggesting that acclimatization to high and variable temperatures may persist long enough to enable these animals to cope with intermittent bouts of heat stress.
Physical Activity for Bone Health: How Much and/or How Hard?
Authors: ROWLANDS ALEX V. , EDWARDSON CHARLOTTE L. , DAWKINS NATHAN P. , MAYLOR BEN D. , METCALF KRISTEN M. , JANZ KATHLEEN F.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

High-impact physical activity is associated with bone health, but higher volumes of lower-intensity activity may also be important. The aims of this study were to: 1) investigate the relative importance of volume and intensity of physical activity accumulated during late adolescence for bone health at age 23 yr; and 2) illustrate interpretation of the results.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of data from the Iowa Bone Development Study, a longitudinal study of bone health from childhood through to young adulthood. The volume (average acceleration) and intensity distribution (intensity gradient) of activity at age 17, 19, 21, and 23 yr were calculated from raw acceleration ActiGraph data and averaged across ages. Hip areal bone mineral density (aBMD), total body bone mineral content (BMC), spine aBMD, and hip structural geometry (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, Hologic QDR4500A) were assessed at age 23 yr. Valid data, available for 220 participants (124 girls), were analyzed with multiple regression. To elucidate significant effects, we predicted bone outcomes when activity volume and intensity were high (+1SD), medium (mean), and low (−1SD).

Results

There were additive associations of volume and intensity with hip aBMD and total body BMC (low-intensity/low-volume cf. high-intensity/high-volume = ∆0.082 g·cm−2 and ∆169.8 g, respectively). For males only, spine aBMD intensity was associated independently of volume (low-intensity cf. high-intensity = ∆0.049 g·cm−2). For hip structural geometry, volume was associated independently of intensity (low-volume cf. high-volume = ∆4.8–6.6%).

Conclusions

The activity profile associated with optimal bone outcomes was high in intensity and volume. The variation in bone health across the activity volume and intensity distribution suggests intensity is key for aBMD and BMC, whereas high volumes of lower intensity activity may be beneficial for hip structural geometry.
Chest CT-based differential diagnosis of 28 patients with suspected corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Xie Sidong , Lei Ziying , Chen Xiuzhen , Liu Weimin , Wang Xiaohong , Dong Yunxu , Guo Yuefei , Duan Yani , Cao Huijuan , Qin Jie , Lin Bingliang
Published: May 2020

Objectives:

The chest CT findings that can distinguish patients with corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from those with clinically suspected COVID-19 but subsequently found to be COVID-19 negative have not previously been described in detail. The purpose of this study was to determine the distinctions among patients with COVID-19 by comparing the imaging findings of patients with suspected confirmed COVID-19 and those of patients initially suspected to have COVID-19 who were ultimately negative for the disease.

Methods:

28 isolated suspected in-patients with COVID-19 were enrolled in this retrospective study from January 22, 2020 to February 6, 2020. 12 patients were confirmed to have positive severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA results, and 16 patients had negative results. The thin-section CT imaging findings and clinical and laboratory data of all the patients were evaluated.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the 12 confirmed COVID-19 (SARS-Cov-2-positive) patients and 16 SARS-CoV-2-negative patients in epidemiology and most of the clinical features or laboratory data. The CT images showed that the incidence of pure/mixed ground-glass opacities (GGOs) was not different between COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2-negative patients [9/12 (75.0%) vs 10/16 (62.5%), p = 0.687], but pure/mixed GGOs in the peripheral were more common in patients with COVID-19 [11/12 (91.7%) vs 6/16 (37.5%), p = 0.006]. There were no significant differences in the number of lesions, bilateral lung involvement, large irregular/patchy opacities, rounded opacities, linear opacities, crazy-paving patterns, halo signs, interlobular septal thickening or air bronchograms.

Conclusions:

Although peripheral pure/mixed GGOs on CT may help distinguish patients with COVID-19 from clinically suspected but negative patients, CT cannot replace RT-PCR testing.

Advances in knowledge:

Peripheral pure/mixed GGOs on-chest CT findings can be helpful in distinguishing patients with COVID-19 from those with clinically suspected COVID-19 but subsequently found to be COVID-19 negative.
Association between categorization of emotionally-charged and neutral visual scenes and parameters of event-related potentials in carriers of COMT, HTR2A, BDNF gene polymorphisms
Authors: Vorobyeva Elena V. , Ermakov Pavel N. , Borokhovski Evgenij F. , Kovsh Ekaterina M. , Stoletniy Alexander S.
Published: May 2020

Background: This study aimed to discover the association between parameters of event-related potentials (ERPs) and categorization of images of visual scenes, both emotionally-charged and neutral, in carriers of polymorphisms of the COMT, HTR2A, BDNF genes.

Methods: Electroencephalogram (EEG) and ERPs were recorded at 128 leads, with two ear referents. Images of different visual scenes were presented to the study participants sequentially on a monitor screen. The participants’ task was to examine these images and indicate what emotions (negative, neutral or positive) they elicit. Comparison of event-related potentials was carried out using unpaired Student t-test in EEGLAB toolbox.

Results: COMT. A stronger reaction, as reflected in the amplitude of the ERPs, in participants with the recessive homozygous Met/Met genotype was observed on latency around 200 ms to the stimuli, assessed as positive. Carriers of dominant homozygous Val/Val genotype had higher amplitude of 200 ms peak when assessed scene images as either neutral or negative in comparison to other genotypes. Participant with the Val/Met heterozygous genotype had higher amplitude of ERP that Met/Met group on same latency when assessed stimuli as negative.

HTR2A. Significant increase in negativity in the parietal-occipital regions revealed in the range of 350-420 ms in participants with the recessive homozygous A/A genotype when choosing any type of assessment, compared to carriers of the heterozygous genotype A/G and the dominant homozygous G/G genotype.

BDNF. Participants with Val/Val genotype categorized the visual images more thoroughly, as reflected in greater activation of the parietal-occipital zones and higher amplitude on ERP peak on 190 ms (negative assessment) and 160 ms (neutral assessment) then Val/Met carriers.

Conclusions: The COMT, HTR2A, BDNF gene polymorphisms are associated with the process of categorizing emotionally charged and neutral visual scenes, and this relationship is reflected in the ERP parameters.
Gut and intestinal biometrics of the giant trevally, Caranx ignobilis, fed an experimental diet with difference sources of activated charcoal
Authors: Firdus Firdus , Samadi Samadi , Muhammadar Abdullah A. , Sarong Muhammad A. , Muchlisin Zainal A. , Sari Widya , Batubara Agung S.
Published: May 2020

Background:The giant trevally,Caranx ignobilis, is a commercially important marine fish in Indonesia. This species was initially cultured in Aceh Province. Previous reports showed that charcoal has a positive effect on survival and feed utilization of the giant trevally. However, the effects of adding charcoal to the diet on gut and intestine biometrics has, to our knowledge, never been described.

Methods:Four activated charcoal sources were tested in this study using a completely randomized experimental design; coconut shell charcoal, mangrove wood charcoal, rice husk charcoal, and kernel palm shell charcoal. All treatments were performed with four replications. Juvenile giant trevally (average body weight, 16.52 ± 3.12 g; and average total length, 10.26 ± 0.64 cm) were stocked into the experimental tank at a density of 15 fish per tank. The fish were fed an experimental diet twice daily at 7 AM and 5 PMad satiationfor 42 days.

Results:Analysis of variance showed that adding charcoal to the diet had significant effects on the length and width of the foveola gastrica and villous intestine (P < 0.05). The greatest length and width of the foveola gastrica was recorded in fish fed an experimental diet of rice husk charcoal with average values of 311.811 ± 9.869 µm and 241.786 ± 10.394 µm, respectively. The greatest length of intestinal villous was found in fish fed the mangrove wood charcoal diet, with a value of 135.012 ± 5.147 µm, but this length was not significantly different to that in fish fed rice charcoal and kernel palm shell charcoal. However, the greatest width of intestinal villous was recorded in fish fed the control diet (without charcoal; P < 0.05).

Conclusion:The optimal sizes of the foveola gastrica and villous intestine were found in fish fed an experimental diet with rice husk charcoal.
The Emerging Adults Gambling Survey: study protocol
Authors: Wardle Heather
Published: May 2020

The Emerging Adults Gambling Survey is a longitudinal survey of young adults aged 16-24 living in Great Britain. It aims to explore a range of gambling behaviours and harms among young adults and examine how this changes over time. It is part of a broader project funded by Wellcome into the gambling behaviours of young people and its relationship with technological change. Funding is currently available for two waves of data collection: the first collected in June/August 2019 (n=3549) and the second to be collected in June/August 2020. The second wave of data collection will also obtain information about the immediate impact of coronavirus on gambling behaviours. With a sample size of 3549 for Wave 1, this is one of the largest study of gambling behaviours among young adults to be conducted in Great Britain and is a resource for other researchers to draw on. Data will be deposited in the UK Data Archive upon completion of Wave 2 data collection and analysis.  This protocol is intended to support other researchers to use this resource by setting out the study design and methods.
Segmenting communities as public health strategy: a view from the social sciences and humanities
Authors: Ganguli-Mitra Agomoni , Young Ingrid , Engelmann Lukas , Harper Ian , McCormack Donna , Marsland Rebecca , Buch Segal Lotte , Sethi Nayha , Stewart Ellen , Tichenor Marlee
Published: May 2020

On the 5th of May 2020, a group of modellers, epidemiologists and biomedical scientists from the University of Edinburgh proposed a “segmenting and shielding” approach to easing the lockdown in the UK over the coming months. Their proposal, which has been submitted to the government and since been discussed in the media, offers what appears to be a pragmatic solution out of the current lockdown. The approach identifies segments of the population as at-risk groups and outlines ways in which these remain shielded, while ‘healthy’ segments would be allowed to return to some kind of normality, gradually, over several weeks. This proposal highlights how narrowly conceived scientific responses may result in unintended consequences and repeat harmful public health practices. As an interdisciplinary group of researchers from the humanities and social sciences at the University of Edinburgh, we respond to this proposal and highlight how ethics, history, medical sociology and anthropology - as well as disability studies and decolonial approaches - offer critical engagement with such responses, and call for more creative and inclusive responses to public health crises.
UNIVERSAL RESOURCE-SAVING DOSING DEVICE OF PNEUMATIC SOWING UNIT
Authors: Ahalaya Badri , Shogenov Yuriy , Shogenov Anzor , Zolotarev Andrey
Published: May 2020

A new design of a pneumatic sowing device operating at an excess pressure of the air flow is proposed, which allows sowing the seeds of two different crops simultaneously in one row in a combined way, placing them at equal intervals in a row and at different depths, as well as sowing in a dotted way. The new sowing disc of a dosing device is made in the form of a plate and is equipped with two rings rigidly fixed on it with the possibility of removal. The optimum thickness of the disc is 3...4 mm, the width of the ring is 11...12 mm. These parameters are established based on the size of the seeds of the sown crops, affecting the parameters of the conical cells of the rings. The manufacture of a metering disc from a polymeric material reduces the consumption of metal on the metering apparatus as a whole and reduces its mass. The use of a new resource-saving metering device allows high-quality sowing of seeds of two row crops in one area at no additional cost, while minimizing damage to seeds to a minimum. The developed pneumatic metering device with a universal dosing device has a simpler design adapted to production conditions and is convenient in operation
TRENDS AND PROSPECTS OF DEVELOPMENT OF MILK PRODUCTION
Authors: Aleksandrova Natal'ya , Subaeva Asiya , Mavlieva Leysan , Titov Nikolay
Published: May 2020

The studies were carried out in order to identify factors affecting the efficiency of milk production in Ulyanovsk region, to subsequently determine the most important measures for the development of the industry. The bulk of marketed milk in the region is produced by agricultural enterprises. Despite the strengthening of state support measures to stimulate dairy farming, the growth rate of milk production in agricultural organizations in the region remains low. For 2014 - 2018 gross milk yield in farms of this category increased by only 5.7% and was due to increased productivity of cows. At the same time, milk production efficiency decreased from 27.9 to 21.9%, and its growth was noted only in 7 regions of the region. In 11 districts, a decrease in the profitability of milk production for 2014–2018, ranged from 6.2 to 71.5 percentage points. According to the results of the grouping of agricultural enterprises of Ulyanovsk region, the highest level of profitability of milk production is due to the increased average annual milk yield from 1 cow, a larger share of feed costs in the total cost of maintaining the dairy herd, low production and sale costs of 1 centner of milk, and a high selling price of 1 centner milk. Achieving high profitability is possible only with the optimal combination of these factors. Strengthening the fodder base will contribute to increasing the efficiency of milk production in Ulyanovsk region, which will ensure further development of the industry and create conditions for increasing the volume of milk and dairy products
Influence of adverse factors of low intensity on the frequency of malformations in fetuses and newborns
Authors: Vlasova Olena Vasylivna , Hrytsiuk Mariana Ivanivna , Marusyk Uliana Ivanivna
Published: May 2020

Extreme anthropogenic and technology-related environmental factors are known to have an adverse influence on the development of fetal and newborn malformations. The subject has been studied fully enough and is also practically assured. At the same time, the long-term impact of low-intensity factors (each of which does not exceed the maximum permissible concentration) both on the body of parents and the frequency of development (sentinel) structural changes in children has not been discussed in sufficient detail. Based on this, the analysis of the malformations frequency in fetuses and newborns was conducted from 2004 to 2014 if their parents lived in 5 districts of Chernivtsi region and the districts were known as technogenic polluted (ERF 2,0 or more). The obtained data has been compared to the malformations frequency in fetuses and newborns whose parents constantly lived in more favorable environmental conditions (ERF less than 2,0).Accordingly, the data provided make us consider that if parents lived where there was an increased risk of environmental factors influence their body, their children had major (sentinel) malformations more often than the comparison group. These malformations are recommended for mandatory registration in the EUROCAT register. Since these malformations with a fixed phenotype reflect the interaction of genetic and environmental factors, the data obtained, in particular, indicates the correctness of the selected group forming criteria.
The role of the nurse in improving the quality of healthcare
Authors: Wasik Magdalena Anna
Published: May 2020

IntroductionThe nurse provides medical care for the patient, including nursing, administering medicines and performing injections. She assists the doctor in the process of diagnosis and treatment. The definition of this profession changes as a result of the development of science and increasing expectations of health care. The development of this profession is evidenced by developed models of nursing, which will focus on the practical application of the acquired knowledge.Aim The aim of this work was to present the tasks and competences of nursing and the role of this profession in improving the quality of patient care.Material and methodThe paper uses the method of literature analysis. The material used in the paper comes from publications published in a compact form and scientific articles.ResultsThe review of the collected scientific material showed that nurses have a significant impact on the quality of health care and the functioning of the entire facility. Healthcare institutions belong to organizations in which the quality of services translates into the patient's health and life. Care should therefore be a priority for the entire staff, especially for the nurses who first meet the patient and spend a lot of time with him. Patients expect medical knowledge from nurses first and foremost, but also safety, trust and proper communication.ConclusionsIn recent years, nursing has been constantly changing, which means that people in this profession have to take various actions for their development. Patient expectations are also changing. Their opinion and satisfaction is important for success. A satisfied patient will surely use the services of the facility again.
Diabetic foot as a complication of diabetes
Authors: Ręba Patrycja
Published: May 2020

AdmissionDiabetic foot is a chronic complication of diabetes. Is a shallow or deep skin ulcer. It can occur with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Diabetic foot can appear in anyone with diabetes. This condition is associated with all kinds of complications or pathological changes that are a direct result of diabetes. Patients also complain of ulcers, infections and neurogenic arthropathy also known as Charcot's joints. Aim The aim of the study is to analyze the diabetic foot as a complication of diabetes.Material and method Review of available literature on the subject.ResultsAlong with the diagnosis of diabetic foot, doctors classify the disease according to the Wagner classification, i.e. a 6-point scale. The division of the diabetic foot syndrome takes into account the assessment of blood supply, the size and penetration of the ulcer, as well as the severity of the infection and the occurrence of diabetic neuropathy. The first grade of diabetic foot syndrome is free of signs and symptoms of infection, as there is no infection. In the second degree, the infection is local and covers only the skin and subcutaneous tissue, without involvement of deeper tissues and without systemic symptoms. In the third degree of diabetic foot syndrome, a local infection is present without involvement of deeper tissues with erythema over 2 cm in diameter.fascia. The fourth degree of diabetic foot syndrome is characterizedsevere infection, including local lesions in combination with systemic symptoms.ConclusionsDiabetic foot is treated primarily by leveling diabetes and maintaining normal glycemia. In the case of large ulcers, a visit to a surgeon will be required who will develop the ulcer and recommend further action. Also, if you get an infection you will need to take by mouthantibiotic therapy or appropriate topical preparations. Diabetic foot syndrome is just one of many complications of untreated diabetes that can lead to disability or even premature death. This should be a cautionary tale for people who disregard the need for systematic blood glucose control.