bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WITHDRAWN: Cytoplasmic translocation of p16 could be associated with CDK4 to promote progression of breast cancer
Authors: Xie Suling , Zhang Ruirui , Qi Wenjing , Hou Jinping , Zhang Qiuping , Zhang Lizhi , Zhang Lina , Wang Huali , Guan Hongwei
Published: April 2020

Background: p16 protein was up-regulated in breast cancer with translocation from nucleus to cytoplasm. In this study, the mechanism of p16 cytoplasmic translocation and its role in progression of breast cancer were investigated. Methods: The expression and subcellular redistribution of p16 and CDK4 were detected by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence in 93 cases of breast cancer. Regulation of different CDK4 status on p16 and its influence on the progression of breast cancer were analyzed with western blotting, CCK8, flow cytometry and transwell assays. Results: Both p16 and CDK4 proteins mainly expressed and co-localized in cytoplasm or nucleoplasm either in breast cancer tissues or in cell lines. Further analysis indicated that p16 was mainly in cytoplasm when CDK4 was over-expressed. However, it located in nucleus when CDK4 was mutated at position 24 (R24C) or knocked down. In addition, cytoplasmic p16 could promote proliferation, invasion and metastasis of breast cancer. Conclusion: The aberrant accumulation of p16 in cytoplasm could be associated with up-regulated CDK4, which could promote progression of breast cancer cells, indicating a poorer prognosis.
Unequal treatment: challenging socioeconomic and living area disparities in oral rehydration therapy and continued feeding in 35 Sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: woldemedhn Gebretsadik shibre , Zegeye Betregiorigis
Published: April 2020

Background While the 2030 global goal has motivated proliferation of equity-oriented studies globally, we did not find sweeping studies on disparity in Oral Rehydration Theory (ORT) and continued feeding at the level of the Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) region. Yet, exploring the within and between-country variations of the service could help synthesize useful policy lessons that can be applied to other settings within the region. We aimed to generate evidence on inequality in use of the service at the level of SSA in order to suggest the way forward to advance the momentum already gained in the region with respect to improving coverage of this lifesaving interventions. Method We applied the World Health Organization’s Health Equity Assessment Toolkit for the analysis. Data were obtained from Demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 2012 and 2016. Thirty-five countries were selected from different income categories in SSA. ORT and continued feeding disparity was analyzed with respect to five dimensions of inequality (wealth, education, sex, residence and subnational regions) through four measures of inequality: difference, ratio, population attributable risk and fraction. Results Disparity in use of ORT and continued feeding plagued SSA and consistently favored advantaged population subgroups. In 20 out of 35 countries, the service was disproportionately concentrated among children from well to do households. The inequality was strikingly pronounced in Angola, Guinea, Cameroon and Mali. We also recorded sizable variations with respect to residence and education in 23 and 11 countries. Interestingly, male and female children get the service almost equally in most countries, with only four countries (Niger, Kenya, Guinea-Bissau, and Senegal) suffered sex differentials, generally to the favor of male children. Conclusion In SSA, unjustified disparity around use of ORT and continued feeding is a pervasive problem that requires resolute policy response soon. Eliminating the disparity would set the region miles ahead to reaching the child health related global goals to be attained in 2030. The region might benefit from equitable economic and education policies.
Association of hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype with renal function impairment: a cross-sectional study in a population of Chinese adults
Authors: Qiu Yun , Zhao Qi , Gu Yian , Wang Na , Yu Yuting , Wang Ruiping , Zhang Yue , Cui Shuheng , Zhu Meiying , Liu Xing , Jiang Yonggen , Zhao Genming
Published: April 2020

Background: The hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype has been suggested as a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD), but evidence on relationship of triglyceride waist phenotypes with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) status and severity is limited. Our aim was to explore the association of triglyceride waist phenotypes with reduced eGFR and various decreased eGFR stages among Chinese adults.Methods: A population-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among Chinese participants aged 20-74 years during June 2016 to December 2017 in Shanghai, China. An eGFR value below 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 was defined as Decreased eGFR. The HTGW phenotype was defined as a triglycerides (TG) level ≥1.7 mmol/L and a waist circumference (WC) ≥90 cm for men and ≥80 cm for women. We examined the association of triglyceride waist phenotypes with decreased eGFR risk using the weighted logistic regression models.Results: A total of 31,296 adults were included in this study. Compared with normal TG level/normal WC (NTNW) phenotype, normal TG level/enlarged WC (NTGW), elevated TG level/normal WC (HTNW), elevated TG level/enlarged WC (HTGW) were associated with the increased risk of decreased eGFR, with an multivariable-adjusted ORs (95% CI) of 1.77 (1.42-2.20), 1.48 (1.16-1.90), and 2.30 (1.80-2.93), respectively. These positive associations between triglyceride waist phenotypes and decreased eGFR risk remained across almost all the subgroups, including sex, age, BMI, T2DM, and hypertension. NTGW, HTNW, and HTGW phenotype were consistently positively associated with the risk of mildly and moderately decreased eGFR, but not with severely decreased eGFR risk.Conclusions: HTGW was consistently associated with the increased risk of decreased eGFR and various decreased eGFR stages except for severely decreased eGFR. The findings imply that HTGW may be an important risk factor for renal dysfunction or an indicator for prevention and control aiming to reduce renal function decline.
Radiographic findings in 240 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Savietto Giovanni , Vancheri Sergio , Ballati Francesco , Maggi Alessia , Canino Costanza , Bortolotto Chandra , Valentini Adele , Dore Roberto , Stella Giulia Maria , Corsico Angelo Guido , Iotti Giorgio Antonio , Mojoli Francesco , Perlini Stefano , Bruno Raffaele , Preda Lorenzo
Published: April 2020

Objective: to analyze the most frequent radiographic features of COVID-19 pneumonia and assess the effectiveness of CXR in detecting pulmonary alterations.Materials and Methods: CXR of 240 symptomatic patients (70% male, mean age 65±16 years), with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by RT-PCR were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were clustered in four groups based on the number of days between symptom onset and CXR: A (0-2 days) 49 patients, B (3-5) 75 patients, C (6- 9) 85 patients and D (>9) 31 patients. Alteration’s type (reticular/opacification/consolidation) and distribution (bilateral/unilateral, upper/middle/lower fields, peripheral/central) were noted. Statistical significance was tested using chi-squared test.Results: among 240 CXR, 60 (25%) were negative (A 36.7%, B 28%, C 18.8%, D 16.1%). Opacification was observed in 124/180 (68.8%), reticular alteration in 113/180 (62.7%), consolidation in 71/180 (39.4%). Consolidation was significantly less frequent (p<0.01). Distribution among groups was: reticular alteration (A 70.9%, B 72.2%, C 57.9%, D 46.1%), opacification (A 67.7%, B 62.9%, C 71%, D 76.9%), consolidation (A 35.5%, B 31.4%, C 47.8%, D 38.5%). Alterations were bilateral in 73.3%. Upper, middle and lower fields were involved in 36.7%, 79.4%, 87.8%. Lesions were peripheral in 49.4%, central in 11.1% or both in 39.4%. Upper fields and central zones were significantly less involved (p<0.01). Conclusions: the most frequent lesions in COVID-19 patients were opacification (intermediate/late phase) and reticular alteration (early phase) while consolidation gradually increased over time. The most frequent distribution was bilateral, peripheral, with middle/lower predominance. Overall rate of negative CXR is 25%, progressively decreased over time.
Mathematical models for devising the optimal SARS-CoV-2 eradication in China, South Korea, and Italy
Authors: Jiang Shuo , Li Qiuyue , Li Chaoqun , Liu Shanshan , He Xiaomeng , Wang Tao , Li Hua , Corpe Christopher , Zhang Xiaoyan , Xu Jianqing , Wang Jin
Published: April 2020

Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), spreads rapidly and has attracted worldwide attention.
Methods
To improve forecast accuracy and investigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2, we constructed four mathematical models to investigate the numerical spread of SARS-CoV-2 and eradication pathways.
Results
Using the SEIR model, and including measures, such as city closure and holiday extension policy taken by the Chinese government which effectively reduced the β value, we estimated that the β value and basic transmission R0 of SARS-CoV-2 was 0·476 / 6·66 in Wuhan, 0·359 / 5·03 in Korea, 0·400 / 5·60 in Italy. Considering medicine and vaccines, an advanced model demonstrated that the emergence of vaccines can greatly alleviate the spread of the virus. Our model predicted that 100,000 people would become infected assuming the isolation rate alpha is 0·30 in Wuhan. If quarantine measures were taken from Mar 10, 2020 and the quarantine rate of alpha was also 0·3, the final number of infected people might be 11,426 in South Korea, and 147,142 in Italy.
Conclusions
Our mathematical models propose that SARS-CoV-2 eradication depends on systematic thinking, effective hospital isolation, and SARS-CoV-2 medicine and vaccination, and some measures including city closure and holiday policy should be taken for SARS-CoV-2 eradication.
Exposure to Biocides Leads to Ampicillin Resistance in Clinically Isolated Enterococcus faecalis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Nor Amirah Fatihah Md , Ghazali Nur Ainaa Nabihah Mohd , Ibrahim Rosni , Adam Siti Khadijah , Jasni Azmiza Syawani
Published: April 2020

BackgroundAntibiotic resistance is one of the most urgent threats to the public health globally. The extensive use of biocides in clinical settings poses risk for emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance among nosocomial pathogens. This study aimed to investigate the effect of biocides exposure on the antibiotic susceptibility patterns, morphology and ultrastructure of clinically isolated Enterococcus faecalis.MethodsThe antibiotic susceptibility patterns of E. faecalis following biocides exposure were studied using disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification was performed to confirm the ampicillin resistance genes. The effect on the morphological and ultrastructural of E. faecalis was characterized using transmission and scanning electron microscopy. All descriptive data from this study were presented as percentages.ResultsExposure to subinhibitory concentration of hydrogen peroxide increased the MIC of E. faecalis EF2 and developed resistance to ampicillin. However, the exposure did not exhibit any effects to the ultrastructure and morphology of E. faecalis. Molecular analysis of E. faecalis EF2 and ampicillin resistant EF2 which was referred as EF2r in this study showed that both isolates contained pbp4 gene. Sequence analysis revealed that there was no mutation detected within the pbp4 gene thus suggesting that ampicillin resistance observed following exposure to subinhibition concentration of biocides did not cause any mutation within the pbp4 gene of E. faecalis EF2r.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that exposure to subinhibitory concentration of biocides leads to reduced antibiotic susceptibility of the clinical E. faecalis. This investigation provides an insight into the event that could lead to the development and possible dissemination of antibiotic resistance determinants among nosocomial pathogens.
BTP2 negatively regulates Orai1 and ryanodine receptor function in skeletal muscle
Authors: Meizoso-Huesca Aldo , Launikonis Bradley
Published: April 2020

Background. BTP2 is known to block Orai1, the Ca2+ channel of store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) but no detailed analysis has been undertaken in skeletal muscle, where the drug has been used extensively to study SOCE. Methodology. We trapped a Ca2+ sensitive dye in the tubular (t-) system of mechanically skinned fibres from rat to define the effect of BTP2 on SOCE in skeletal muscle fibres and used a cytoplasmic rhod-2 to track Ca2+ release in the presence of BTP2. Results. In addition to blocking Orai1-dependent SOCE, we found a BTP2-dependent inhibition of a resting Ca2+ conductance, likely to be through the Orai1 channel. Intriguingly, increasing concentrations of BTP2 displayed a hormetic effect on resting [Ca2+] in the t-system ([Ca2+]t−sys), shifting from inducing an accumulation of Ca2+ in the t-system presumably due to Orai1 channels blocking, to reducing the resting [Ca2+]t−sys. In absence of functional ryanodine receptors (RyRs), this biphasic effect was not observed, suggesting that above the hormetic zone, BTP2 impairs RyR function. Additionally, we found that BTP2 impairs the cytoplasmic Ca2+ transients during repetitive excitation-contraction coupling (EC coupling) cycles, independently of extracellular Ca2+ entry impairment. We determined that the release of Ca2+ through the RyR was inhibited by BTP2, strongly suggesting that the RyR was the point of inhibition during the cycles of EC coupling. Finally, we found that BTP2 inhibition of RyR-mediated Ca2+ release was independent of extracellular or intracellular application of the agent, indicating that BTP2 can impair RyR function in intact muscle. Conclusion. Our results show that both Ca2+ channels, the Orai1 and RyR, are negatively regulated by BTP2, shedding new light on previous work that applied BTP2 to block SOCE in muscle.
National Inventory of Medicinal Plants Used to Treat Sheep and Goats Diseasesin Benin (West Africa): Effect of Socioeconomic and Environmental Factors
Authors: TCHETAN Esaïe , OLOUNLADE Pascal Abiodoun , HOUEHANOU Thierry Dehouegnon , AZANDO Erick Virgile Bertrand , KANEHO Josette Afiavi , HOUINATO Marcel Romuald Benjamin , HOUNZANGBE-ADOTE Sylvie Mawule , QUETIN-LECLERCQ Joëlle , GBAGUIDI Fernand Ahokonou
Published: April 2020

Background: Small ruminant health problems still represent a major constraint in Benin. Thus, to treat goats and sheep diseases, breeders use medicinal plants. However, little scientific work has been done on the traditional knowledge of these plants.The specific objectives of the current study were (i) to document the traditional knowledge regarding the disease groups treated and the medicinalplants used in the health and zootechnical management of small ruminants in Benin and (ii) to assess the effect of sex, ethnicity, agroecological zone and herd sizeassociatedwith them. Methods: To achieve these objectives, an ethnoveterinary survey was conducted in different agroecological zones from September 2018 to February 2019. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 506 breeders and farmers and took into account the identity of the respondents, the plants used to treat the ailmentsfor improving the productivity of sheep and goats, the parts used and the method of preparation of the recipes. The data were analyzed through the calculation the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Fidelity Level (FL), and Consensus Factor of the Informant (CFI). Descriptive statistics and multivariate analyses were applied to our data using the software R and Minitab. The symptoms recordedfrom the respondents were categorized into 10 disorder groups using the second version of the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC). Results: Ten (10) categories of disorders were treated by the people surveyed. These are mainly disorders of the digestive system (D) (49.34%) and disorders related to pregnancy and parturition (W) (20.15%). A total of 101 species medicinal plantsbelonging to 42 families and 90 genera were recorded. The most represented families are Leguminosae (21.57%) and Euphorbiaceae (6.86%). The most cited speciesare Zanthoxylumzanthoxyloides (Lam.) Watermann, Khayasenegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss, Strigahermonthica (DeliIe) Benth. and Adansoniadigitata L. Sex, ethnicity, agroecological zone and herd size are the socioeconomic and environmental factors that influence the level of ethnoveterinary knowledge. Conclusions: Results showedthe high diversity of medicinal species used to treat small ruminant’sdiseasesin Benin. Chemical and biological analyzes are needed to test the effectiveness of the main inventoried plants. Keywords : Ethnoveterinary, sheep, goats, Benin.
Raman spectroscopic studies of O–H stretching vibration in Mn-rich apatites: A structural approach
Authors: Pieczka Adam , Gołębiowska Bożena , Jeleń Piotr , Sitarz Maciej , Szuszkiewicz Adam
Published: April 2020

The O–H stretching vibration mode in crystals of (Mn,Cl)-rich and F-poor minerals of the apatite-supergroup has been studied by micro-Raman spectroscopy. The main purpose was to check if such an analysis can provide a quick and simple method to assess the distribution of Ca and Mn together with traces of Fe + Mg (= Mn*) on nonequivalent cationic sites in the apatite structure, especially in small and strongly heterogeneous crystals directly in thin sections. The O–H stretching vibration mode can then be treated as a useful structural probe giving information on the M2 occupants bonded to XOH. Pieczkaite, with the empirical formula (Mn4.49Fe0.47Ca0.05Mg0.01)Σ5.01P2.99O12[Cl0.83(OH)0.17], displays the O–H stretching mode centered at ~3380 cm–1, which shows that the complete replacement of Ca by Mn* at the M2 site is connected with a shift of the O–H stretching band ~192 cm–1 toward lower wavenumbers in relation to the O–H Raman band position reported for hydroxylapatite. The value is high enough to be an indicator of the M2Mn*···OH content in any sample of Mn-enriched apatite. Studies of the fine structure of the band disclosed its dependence on (1) the local combinations of Ca and Mn* forming triplets of M2 cations bonded to the X anion, (2) the presence of OH+Cl at the two half-occupied X sites that form chemical bonds with the M2 cations varying in strength and length, and (3) the spatial geometry of the X–M2 bonds and polarizability of the monovalent X anion by varying cations in the M2M2M2 triplets. The deconvolution of the band into maximum eight component bands with constant Raman shifts opens the possibility of evaluating the averaged M2M2M2 triplet bonded to oxygen of the XOH group. If the OH/(OH+Cl) fraction is known, the amounts of Ca and Mn* bonded to XOH can also be estimated. Application of the method to the holotype parafiniukite showed a slightly different distribution of Ca in M2M2M2 triplets than had been assumed from single-crystal X-ray diffraction. However, it corroborates suggestions that in the apatite structure there may be a preference for M2Ca to be bonded to XOH and M2Mn* to XCl. Our results show that the proposed method can be used as an independent tool in structural studies of Mn-rich minerals of the apatite-supergroup, providing results complementary to single-crystal X-ray diffraction. This method can easily be adjusted to modern apatite-type nanomaterials synthesized for biomedical and various industrial applications.
Asymptotic temperature of a lossy condensate
Authors: Bouchoule Isabelle , Schemmer Max
Published: April 2020

We monitor the time evolution of the temperature of phononic
collective modes in a one-dimensional quasicondensate submitted to
losses. At long times the ratio between the temperature and the energy
scale mc^2mc2,
where mm
is the atomic mass and cc
the sound velocity takes, within a precision of 20%, an asymptotic
value. This asymptotic value is observed while
mc^2mc2
decreases in time by a factor as large as 2.5. Moreover this ratio is
shown to be independent on the loss rate and on the strength of
interactions. These results confirm theoretical predictions and the
measured stationary ratio is in quantitative agreement with the
theoretical calculations.
El extremo austral sudamericano. Ocupación y relaciones de los territorios argentinos y chilenos, 1880-1920
Authors: Mabel Barbería Elsa
Published: April 2020

Este artículo se centra en el estudio del poblamiento de los territorios argentinos fronterizos con Chile, en particular, el de Santa Cruz y Tierra del Fuego. Dentro del marco de la expansión capitalista, se describen las diversas etapas por las que este proceso demográfico pasó hasta el poblamiento definitivo de la zona en el siglo XIX. Asimismo, se analizan las actividades económicas que estimularon el desarrollo de la región, en especial la producción ovina, y el rol que los grandes empresarios desempeñaron en su conformación y funcionamiento. Para finalizar, se exponen los factores tanto nacionales e internacionales que dieron como resultado la desintegración de la zona
Inspiracje Laudato si’ do projektów z zakresu architektury krajobrazu miasta
Authors: Jakubowski Kasper
Published: April 2020

W pracy zaprezentowano własne badania nad treścią encykliki Laudato si’ (LS) z punktu widzenia problematyki środowiskowej współczesnych miast i architektury krajobrazu. Encyklika Ojca Świętego stanowi inspirującą diagnozę i opis zjawisk, czerpiącą z osiągnięć i ustaleń różnych dziedzin nauki. W pracy sformułowano dziesięć głównych pól tematycznych z Laudato si’, ważnych z punktu widzenia zrównoważonego rozwoju miast i projektów architektury krajobrazu. Głównym tematem encykliki jest współzależność pomiędzy środowiskiem przyrodniczym i społecznym. Przesłane, jakie płynie z zawartych w dokumencie analiz i wniosków, jest pozytywne: możliwe są inne scenariusze rozwoju i zasady kształtowania (a tam, gdzie to konieczne – odtwarzania) środowiska. Wskazano na propozycje zmian i praktycznych rozwiązań, inspirujących dla społecznej, ekologicznej, przestrzennej odnowy miast. Autor analizuje je na tle aktualnych tendencji w architekturze krajobrazu, której jednym z przyszłościowych kierunków jest renaturyzacja krajobrazu miejskiego.
Człowiek na tle społeczno-gospodarczych uwarunkowań ochrony środowiska
Authors: Trzewik Jacek
Published: April 2020

Na przestrzeni ostatnich lat znaczenia nabiera problematyka roli człowieka w jego relacjach ze środowiskiem. Wyrazem postępujących zmian jest chociażby stopniowe poszerzanie dorobku legislacyjnego przewidującego pewne uprawnienia podmiotowe jednostki, których realizacja ma istotne znaczenie dla osiągania celów stawianych ochronie środowiska. Na tym tle uzasadnione są także rozważania dotyczące gospodarczych oraz aksjologicznych uwarunkowań działań określanych mianem ochrony środowiska. Celem niniejszego opracowania jest wskazanie antropocentrycznych podstaw oraz aksjologicznych źródeł zachowań ujmowanych zbiorczo jako ochrona środowiska.
Aspekty etyczno-prawne legalizacji marihuany i innych narkotyków miękkich
Authors: Kobyliński Andrzej
Published: April 2020

Głównym celem artykułu jest prezentacja najważniejszych aspektów etycznych i prawnych legalizacji marihuany i innych narkotyków miękkich. Spór o legalizację dostępu do narkotyków jest przejawem rewolucji moralnej, która dokonuje się obecnie w wymiarze globalnym. W ostatnim dziesięcioleciu nastąpiło w wielu krajach silne przesunięcie nastrojów opinii publicznej na korzyść reformy polityki narkotykowej. Argumenty związane z zakazem dostępu do narkotyków i reformą polityki narkotykowej są obecnie przedmiotem poważnych kontrowersji. Problem prawnego dostępu do narkotyków stanowi bardzo złożoną kwestię interdyscyplinarną, która wymaga rzetelnej diagnozy z pogranicza etyki, medycyny, filozofii prawa, socjologii i filozofii politycznej. Etyczna ocena stosowania narkotyków i ich dystrybucji powinna zawsze poprzedzać przyjęcie określonych rozwiązań o charakterze prawnym.
Effect of Danggui-Shaoyao-San-Containing Serum on the Renal Tubular Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Xiaobing Li , Chunling Niu , Wenyu Chen , Yan Chen , Zhenzhen Li
Published: April 2020

Objectives:

To investigate the effect of Danggui-Shaoyao-San (DSS)-containing serum on
the renal tubular Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) of Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) in high
glucose- induced HK-2 cells and its mechanism.

Methods:

20 rats were randomly divided into four groups: blank control group, DSS low dose group
(DSS-L), DSS middle dose group (DSS-M), and DSS high dose group (DSS-H). DSS was administrated
to the corresponding group (7g/kg/d, 14g/kg/d and 21g/kg/d) for 7 consecutive days, and the same
volume of saline was given to the blank control group by gavage. The rat drug-containing serum was
successfully prepared. HK-2 cells were divided into five groups: blank control group, model group,
DSS-L, DSS-M, DSS-H, according to the corresponding drug and dose of each treatment group. Protein
and mRNA levels of Jagged1, Notch1, Hes5, Notch Intracellular Domain (NICD), E-cadherin, alpha-
Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA) and vimentin at 24h, 48h and 72h were detected by Western Blot
and RT-qPCR.

Results:

The protein and mRNA levels of Jagged1, Notch1, Hes5, NICD, α-SMA and vimentin in the
treatment groups were remarkably decreased compared with the model group (P<0.05), and the protein
and mRNA levels of E-cadherin were notably increased (P<0.05) by Western Blot and RT-qPCR.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrated that DSS could prevent DN by ameliorating renal tubular EMT
through inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway.
Metabolic Changes in Hyperlipidemic Rats After The Administration of Xuezhikang
Authors: Su Ke , Chen Bingbao , Tu Xiaoting , Ye Luxin , Lu Xiaojie , Yu Zheng , Wang Xianqin , Yang Xuezhi
Published: April 2020

Background:

Xuezhikang capsule, which contains cholesterol synthase inhibitors and a
large number of natural statins, is put in the clinical application of lipid-lowering and so on.
However, the specific use of dose, lipid-lowering effect and the relationship between metabolites
are to be further studied.

Introduction:

Metabonomics is the study of the relationship between the change of quantity and
physiological changes from metabolites. At present metabolomics has been widely used in drug
development and testing. In this study, we developed a metabolomic method based on gas
chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to find out hyperlipemia-related substances, and
study the lipid-lowering mechanism of Xuezhikang.

Method:

Fifty SD rats (220 ± 20 g) were given high-fat diet. After four-weeks modeling, they
were randomly divided into semi-control group, high fat group, simvastatin intervention group and
Xuezhikang intervention group (0.23, 0.69, 1.15 mg/kg, low, medium, high), each dosage in eight
rats. The control group (rest eight rats) were given normal diet, and no specific treatment. The rats
were sacrificed at the end of the experiment.

Result:

The biochemical and body weight indexes of the normal control group and the high fat
group were significantly different (P <0.05), which indicated that the model of hyperlipidemia was
established success. There was significant difference (P <0.05) between Xuezhikang intervention
group and high fat control group (P <0.05), and hyperlipemia metabolomics related markers,
oxalic acid, butyric acid, mannitol, glucose, glucuronic acid were found. Glucuronic acid and
non-binding bilirubin combined with bilirubin, combined with some of the liver harmful
substances, play a detoxification effect.

Conclusion:

The results of metabonomics showed that the high-fat group and the control group have
significant differences. Mannose, glucose content is relatively stable, lipid metabolism in high-fat
group stearic acid, palmitic acid levels decreased, suggesting that high-fat diet disorders rat body lipid
metabolism. It is worth mentioning that the experimental evaluation of rats, such as biochemical indicators
and pathological results are prompted to model success, Xuezhikang intervention effect is more
significant, consistent with the expected.

Conclusion:

The results of metabonomics showed that the high fat group and the control group
were significant difference. Mannose, glucose content is relatively stable, lipid metabolism in
high-fat group stearic acid, palmitic acid levels decreased, suggesting that high-fat diet disorders
rat body lipid metabolism. It is worth mentioning that the experimental evaluation of rats such as
biochemical indicators and pathological results are prompted to model success, Xuezhikang
intervention effect is more significant, consistent with the expected.
Circadian Rhythms of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase and Toll-like Receptors 2 Production in Females with Rheumatoid Arthritis Depending on NOS3 Gene Polymorphism
Authors: Zaichko Kateryna , Zaichko Nataliia , Maievskyi Oleksandr , Korotkyi Oleksandr , Falalyeyeva Tetyana , Fagoonee Sharmila , Pellicano Rinaldo , Abenavoli Ludovico , Stanislavchuk Mykola
Published: April 2020

Background:

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune polygenic disease characterized by rapid disability progression and high prevalence. Progression of RA is closely associated with chronobiological changes in the production of some hormones and inflammatory mediators, influencing the disease course and therapy efficacy. The main pathogenetic mechanism of RA is angiogenesis, which is controlled by biological clock-genes. Further investigation of circadian rhythms of angiogenic mediators production in RA patients may be considered as important and relevant. The aim of this study was to establish daily variability of serum endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS3) and toll-like receptors 2 (sTLR2) levels in female RA patients depending on the NOS3 gene polymorphism.

Methods:

We examined 173 RA patients (100% female) aged 43.7 ± 7.35 years and 34 age-matched healthy women without joint diseases and autoimmune diseases (control). RA was diagnosed by ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria. Blood serum NOS3 and sTLR2 levels were determined at 08:00 and 20:00 using Cloud-Clone Corp kits (USA). NOS3 T-786С (rs2070744) polymorphism was determined by Real-Time PCR (Bio-Rad iCycler IQ5) using SNP-express kits. The SPSS22 software package was used for statistical processing of the results.

Results:

Females with RA demonstrated oppositely directed serum NOS3 and sTLR2 daily changes: NOS3 level in the morning (08:00) was lower than in the evening (+ 45.5 ± 30.7%), and sTLR2 level in the evening (at 20:00) was lower than in the morning (-21.6 ± 13.1%). RA patients had differences in NOS3 and sTLR2 production depending on NOS3 T786C genotype. CC subjects had NOS3 level at 08:00, 20:00 and day average levels lower (16-25%), and sTLR2 level higher (24-27%) than those of TT subjects. RA patients, carriers of CC genotype, had higher chances of NOS3 and sTLR2 aberrant production compared to TT and TC genotype carriers (OR = 2.99 and 4.79, respectively).

Conclusion:

RA patients demonstrated oppositely directed circadian changes of serum NOS3 and sTLR2. CC genotype carriers had lower NOS3 and higher sTLR2 production rates than TT and TC genotype carriers.
Algoritma berhitung Blija ̂h pada masyarat Madura di Kabupaten Probolinggo: Alternatif pendekatan pembelajaran operasi bilangan
Authors: Pratama Loviga Denny , Setyaningrum Wahyu
Published: April 2020

Studi ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan algoritma berhitung pada transaksi jual-beli yang dilakukan Blijh (penjual sayur tradisional) dalam masyarakat Madura di Kabupaten Probolinggo, Indonesia. Studi ini merupakan studi kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Data dikumpulkan dengan teknik observasi dan wawancara. Sumber data adalah 8 orang Blijh yang tinggal di Kecamatan Paiton, Kabupaten Probolinggo, Indonesia. Analisis data dilakukan dengan menggunakan model Miles & Huberman, dengan tahapan analisis meliputi reduksi data, penyajia datam dan penyimpulan. Data yang diperoleh berupa data kualitatif yang menggambarkan beberapa algoritma berhitung yang terdiri dari penjumlahan, pengu­rangan, perkalian dan pembagian. Adapun dalam artikel ini akan fokus pada algoritma penjumlahan dan pengurangan. Hasil studi menunjukkan bahwa (1) algoritma berhitung penjumlahan dan pengurangan yang dilakukan oleh Blijh berbeda dengan algoritma yang diajarkan di sekolah; (2) dalam melakukan operasi penjumlahan dan pengurangan, cara yang berbeda yang digunakan oleh Blijh yaitu dengan menggenapkan bilangan pertama ke bilangan puluhan diatasnya, berbeda dengan cara yang diajarkan di sekolah, dimana cara yang digunakan yaitu cara bersusun panjang dan bersusun pendek.  Hasil penelitian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan inspirasi dan alternatif dalam pembelajaran berhitung di kelas.Kata kunci: algoritma berhitung, Blijh, operasi bilangan, pendekatan pembelajaran Blijh’s arithmetic algorithm on Madurese society in Probolinggo Regency:An alternative approach in learning number operation AbstractThe aim of this study was to describe arithmetic algorithm on transaction em­ployed by Blijh (traditional vegetables seller) in Madurese community at Probolinggo regency, Indonesia. The study was a qualitative approach by means of case study. The data were gathered through observation and interviews. The partisipants of this study were 8 Blijh living in Paiton, Probolinggo regency, Indonesia. The data were analyzed using Miles & Huberman model, with analysis step consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion. The results of this study obtained some arithmatics algorithm of addition, subtraction, multipication, and division. This paper, however, will only focus on addition and subtraction algorithm. The data reveals that (1) arithmatic algorithm of addition and substraction which used by Blijh was different from the one taught at school; (2) In performing addition and substraction operations, the different method which used by Blijh namely replace the first number to tens above it, while the method that taught at school was using long and short-stacke method. The results of this study could be used as one of teaching and learning approach to develop numerical and mental calculation skills.
Influence of prerequisite concepts understanding and mathematical communication skills toward student’s mathematical proving ability
Authors: Salsabila Ellis
Published: April 2020

This study aims to describe the influence of prerequisite concepts understanding and mathematical communication skills on the mathematical proving ability of Mathematics Education Program students in the Faculty of Mathematics and Science, State University of Jakarta (FMIPA UNJ). The method used in this study was a survey and correlational techniques. The study population was all students of the Mathematics Education Program FMIPA UNJ in 2018. The study sample was taken with a simple random sampling technique, there were 50 students in total. In this study, the dependent variable was mathematical proving ability (Y) and the independent variables were the prerequisite concepts understanding (X1) and mathematical communication skills (X2). This study based on the inferential statistical analysis of research data by using multiple regression analyses to test the effect of independent variables on the dependent variables. The results obtained were: 1) the prerequisite concepts understanding had a positive effect and significant on students’ mathematical proving ability, 2) mathematical communication skills had a positive effect and significant on students’ mathematical proving ability, and 3) prerequisite concepts understanding and mathematical communication skills simultaneously had a positive effect and significant on mathematical proving ability with effect size of 69.3%. Pengaruh pemahaman prerequisite concepts dan kemampuan komunikasi matematis terhadap mathematical proving ability mahasiswaAbstrakPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperoleh informasi tentang pengaruh pemahaman prerequisite concepts dan kemampuan komunikasi matematis terhadap kemampuan membuktikan matematis mahasiswa Pendidikan Matematika di Fakultas Matematika dan Ilmu Pengetahuan Alam Universitas Negeri Jakarta (FMIPA UNJ). Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah  metode survei dan teknik korelasional. Populasi penelitian adalah seluruh mahasiswa Program Studi Pendidikan Matematika FMIPA UNJ tahun 2018. Sampel penelitian diambil dengan teknik simple random sampling sebanyak 50 mahasiswa. Variabel terikat dalam penelitian ini adalah kemampuan membuktikan matematis (Y) dan variabel bebasnya adalah pemahaman prerequisite concepts (X1) dan kemampuan komunikasi matematis (X2). Penelitian ini berdasarkan analisis statistik inferensial atas data penelitian dengan menggunakan analisis regresi ganda untuk menguji pengaruh variable-variabel bebas terhadap variabel terikat. Hasil yang diperoleh adalah: 1) pemahaman prerequisite concepts berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kemampuan pembuktian matematis mahasiswa, 2) kemampuan komunikasi matematis berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kemampuan pembuktian matematis mahasiswa, 3) pemahaman prerequisite concepts dan kemampuan komunikasi matematis secara bersama-sama (simultan) memberikan pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kemampuan pembuktian matematis mahasiswa dengan besar pengaruh sebesar 69,3%.
Pengembangan perangkat pembelajaran matematika menggunakan pendekatan inquiry berorientasi kemampuan berpikir kritis
Authors: Sari Alfizah Ayu Indria , Wutsqa Dhoriva Urwatul
Published: April 2020

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menghasilkan perangkat pembelajaran berupa Rencana Pelaksanaan Pembelajaran (RPP) dan Lembar Kegiatan Siswa (LKS) menggunakan pendekatan inquiry berorientasi pada kemampuan berpikir kritis dan rasa ingin tahu siswa yang berkualitas berdasarkan aspek valid, praktis dan efektif. Penelitian ini menggunakan model pengem­bangan ADDIE dengan tahapan analisis, desain, pengembangan, implementasi, dan evaluasi. Subjek penelitian adalah 32 siswa kelas XI MIA 3 SMA Negeri 1 Godean. Analisis data kevalidan dan kepraktisan dilakukan dengan mengkonversi skor aktual menjadi skor kualitatif. Analisis keefektifan dilakukan dengan menentukan persentase ketuntasan siswa pada tes kemampuan berpikir kritis dan rata-rata skor angket rasa ingin tahu. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perangkat pembelajaran menggunakan pendekatan inquiry yang berorientasi pada kemam­puan berpikir kritis dan rasa ingin tahu siswa telah memenuhi kriteria valid, praktis dan efektif. Developing a learning kit using an inquiry approach oriented to critical thinking skillAbstractThis study aimed to produce a learning kit using the inquiry approach oriented to students’ critical thinking skills and curiosity which has a good quality in the aspects of validity, practicality, and effectiveness. This study was research and development that used the ADDIE model, which includes the steps of analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The subjects were 32 of 11th-grade students of SMA Negeri 1 Godean (Senior High School), Province of Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The data of validity and practicality were analyzed by converting the actual score into qualitative data. The data of effectiveness were done by determining the percentage of student that passed the critical thinking skill tests and the mean scores of students' curiosity questionnaire. The results of this study were a teaching kit using the inquiry approach oriented to students' critical thinking skill and curiosity has met the criterion of valid, practical, and effective.
Usage Metrics of Web-Based Interventions Evaluated in Randomized Controlled Trials: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Koneska Elena , Appelbe Duncan , Williamson Paula R , Dodd Susanna
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The evaluation of web-based interventions (defined as an intervention that can be downloaded or accessed on the internet through a web browser) in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has increased over the past two decades. Little is known about how participants’ use of the intervention is measured, reported, and analyzed in these studies.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to review the evaluation of web-based interventions in RCTs, assessing study characteristics and the methods used to record, and adjust for, intervention usage.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to identify all published reports of RCTs that involved a web-based intervention. A random sample of 100 published trials was selected for detailed data extraction. Information on trial characteristics was extracted, including whether web usage data were recorded, and if so, the methods used to gather these data and whether these data were used to inform efficacy analyses.

RESULTS

A PubMed search identified 812 trials of web-based interventions published up to the end of 2017 and demonstrated a growing trend over time. Of the 100 studies reviewed, 90 studies collected web usage data, but more than half (49/90, 54%) of these studies did not state the method used for recording web usage. Only four studies attempted to check on the reliability of their web usage data collection methods. A total of 39% (35/90) studies reported patterns or levels of web intervention use, of which 21% (19/90) studies adjusted for intervention use in their outcome analysis, but only two of these used appropriate statistical methods.

CONCLUSIONS

Trialists frequently report a measure of web-based intervention usage but do not always report the collection method or provide enough detail on their analysis of web usage. Appropriate statistical methods to account for intervention use are rarely used and are not well reported even in the very few trials in which they are used. The number of trialists who attempt to check on the reliability of their web usage collection methods is extremely low.
Design and Implementation of a Multilevel Intervention to Reduce Hepatitis C Transmission Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Amsterdam: Co-Creation and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Prinsenberg Tamara , Zantkuijl Paul , Zuilhof Wim , Davidovich Udi , Schinkel Janke , Prins Maria , van der Valk Marc
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

In the Netherlands, transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) occurs primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM). Early HCV testing of at-risk MSM and immediate initiation of treatment will prevent onward transmission, but this may not be sufficient to eliminate HCV in a population with ongoing risk behaviors. Therefore, targeted socioculturally acceptable preventive measures, including behavioral interventions, are urgently needed. Currently, little contextually appropriate information about HCV or risk reduction interventions is available.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this project was to develop an intervention to reduce HCV transmission among MSM in Amsterdam through a co-creation process, with the input of men from the targeted community directly impacting intervention content, design, and implementation.

METHODS

We developed a multilevel intervention targeting 6 levels: individual, community, professional, context, patient, and network. The intervention was developed in close cooperation between health professionals, gay community members, commercial stakeholders, and stakeholders from within the gay community. The co-creation process had 4 phases: a needs assessment, stakeholder engagement, co-creation, and implementation. The co-creation phase continued until consensus was reached between the researchers and community members on the intervention content and design. The final intervention, NoMoreC, was completed within 2 years, and implementation started in February 2018.

RESULTS

NoMoreC includes web-based and face-to-face components as well as an anonymous HCV testing service. The NoMoreC website provides information about hepatitis C, HCV transmission routes, risk reduction strategies, testing and treatment options, and partner notification. The face-to-face component comprises a risk reduction toolbox, training for health professionals, and providing tailored advice to sex on premises venues. NoMoreC is promoted by an active voluntary campaign team.

CONCLUSIONS

Involving the community and stakeholders in the creation of NoMoreC has been the main strength of this project. It has resulted in an intervention with various components that resonates with the gay community at risk of HCV infection. The uptake and acceptability of the described intervention will be evaluated in the future. The description of the co-creation process and implementation of the project may serve as a rich and useful source for others who want to develop culturally and context appropriate HCV interventions.
Has the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak had an impact on uptake of digital cessation support in UK smokers? An interrupted time series analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Perski Olga , Herbec Aleksandra , Shahab Lion , Brown Jamie
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak may motivate smokers to attempt to stop in greater numbers. However, given the temporary closure of UK stop smoking services and vape shops, smokers attempting to quit may instead seek out digital support, such as websites and smartphone apps.

OBJECTIVE

We examined, using an interrupted time series approach, whether the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak has been associated with a step change or increasing trend in UK downloads of an otherwise popular smoking cessation app, Smoke Free.

METHODS

Data were from daily and non-daily adult smokers in the UK who had downloaded the Smoke Free app between 1 January 2020 and 31 March 2020 (primary analysis) and 1 January 2019 and 31 March 2020 (secondary analysis). The outcome variable was the number of downloads aggregated at the 12-hourly (primary analysis) or daily level (secondary analysis). The explanatory variable was the start of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, operationalised as 1 March 2020 (primary analysis) and 15 January 2020 (secondary analysis). Generalised Additive Mixed Models adjusted for relevant covariates were fitted.

RESULTS

Data were collected on 45,105 (primary analysis) and 119,881 (secondary analysis) users. In both analyses, there was no evidence for a step change or increasing trend in downloads attributable to the start of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak.

CONCLUSIONS

In the UK, between 1 January 2020 and 31 March 2020, and between 1 January 2019 and 31 March 2020, there was no evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak has been associated with a surge in downloads of a popular smoking cessation app.

CLINICALTRIAL

osf.io/zan2s
Assessing the Awareness of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Germany: A Google Trends Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Szmuda Tomasz , Al-Hakeem Zahraa , Almohisin Emad , Alradhi Mohammed , Ali Ahmed , Ali Shan , Słoniewski Paweł
Published: April 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

On March 11, 2020 the World Health Organization characterized the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) a pandemic. In this situation, evaluating a country’s awareness of a disease is crucial. Using online surveillance, we aimed to assess when and how the German population became aware about COVID-19.
We conducted a search on Google Trends from December 3, 2019 to March 20, 2020 using 5 keywords: Corona, Coronavirus, Corona symptome (corona symptoms), hände waschen (hand washing), gesichtsmaske (face mask). The data were collected for searches in Germany, and compared with the German COVID-19 incidence; Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and a time-lag was used for analysis.
We found a strong correlation between online search trends and the incidence of COVID-19 in Germany for the following search terms: Corona (r>0.8), Coronavirus (r>0.8), hand washing (r>0.7) and Coronavirus symptoms (r>0.8). For these searches, online searches preceded the actual outbreak of COVID-19 from 1 to 6 days.
The increasing incidence of COVID-19 in Germany correlated with people searching about that disease and related terms online. Google Trends may be a low-cost tool for monitoring the awareness of the COVID-19 outbreak and other diseases in the future.