bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE “EFFET UTILE” IN CJEU JURISPRUDENCE
Authors: Liakopoulos Dimitris
Published: June 2020

No contexto da interpretação do direito da UE, a referência ao effet utile contribuiu para a construção da ordem da UE como uma nova ordem jurídica devido à falta de uniformidade entre as leis dos diferentes estados membros caracterizadas por autonomia, aplicabilidade direta e primazia sobre os direitos nacionais. Como podemos ver pela análise da jurisprudência do TJUE, o effet utile não é apenas um critério para a resolução de conflitos entre regras internas e normas da União ou, mais amplamente, uma ferramenta para definir as áreas de competência da UE e dos estados.
Fish diversity in three tributaries of the São Francisco river, Brazil
Authors: Horodesky Aline , Castilho-Westphal Gisela Geraldine , Hungria Diogo Barbalho , Nascimento Durval , Ratton Eduardo , Abilhoa Vinícius , Ostrensky Antonio
Published: June 2020

We evaluated fish diversity in three tributaries of the São Francisco River, one of the largest watercourses in Brazil. The study site is in the sub-basin of the Carinhanha River [Carinhanha, Cocos (I and II) and Itaguari Rivers], located in the South region of the Bahia state. These rivers are crossed by bridges of the federal highway BR-135. After sampling, upstream and downstream from each bridge, during drought and rain seasons, 3,520 specimens of fish (57 species, 21 families) were captured. The species with highest occurrence were Astyanax cf. taeniatus, Serrapinnus heterodon, Astyanax bimaculatus and Astyanax cf. rivularis. During drought season, the number of specimens captured was higher, leading to an increase of species dominance. In the rainy season, species diversity was higher with a greater distribution of individuals among species. The data indicate the maintenance of the fish faunal structure despite anthropogenic activities on the studied areas.
Adequação de protocolo para cultivo in vitro de amoreira-preta (Rubus sp) ‘Xingu’
Authors: Schiehl Marino , França Tatiane Otto de , Biasi Luiz Antonio
Published: June 2020

A produção de mudas in vitro de amoreira-preta possibilita a obtenção rápida e sadia de mudas. O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi otimizar um protocolo de micropropagação da amoreira-preta ‘Xingu’, definindo a concentração mais eficiente de BAP para multiplicação, o melhor agente gelificante a necessidade de AIB no enraizamento ex vitro e a sobrevivência durante a aclimatização. As concentrações de BAP (0; 2,5; 5; 7,5 e 10 µM) foram avaliadas por 3 subcultivos. Os agentes gelificantes avaliados foram Gelrite® (2 g L-1), ágar da marca Vetec® (7 g L-1) e meio líquido. O enraizamento das brotações, tratadas com concentrações de AIB (0; 2,5; 4,9 e 9,8 mM), foi realizado ex vitro em câmara de nebulização. Houve um aumento na quantidade de brotações formadas com o aumento das concentrações de BAP, até a concentração de 5,0 µM. O ágar foi o agente gelificante que gerou explantes com maior qualidade e menos hiperhidricidade. A taxa de enraizamento e sobrevivência dos explantes ex vitro foi de 100 % em todos os tratamentos avaliados. A amoreira-preta cv. Xingu pode ser micropropagada em meio de cultura MS acrescido de 5 µM de BAP e solidificado com ágar (7 g L-1) e o enraizamento pode ser realizado ex vitro durante a aclimatização, sem a necessidade de auxinas.
Proteins Nsp12 and 13 of SARS-CoV-2 Have Mitochondrial Recognition Signal: A Connection with Cellular Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Disease Manifestation
Authors: Ray Upasana , Begum Feroza
Published: June 2020

Mitochondria are classically termed as powerhouse of a mammalian cell. Most of the cellular chemical energy in the form of adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) is generated by mitochondria and dysregulation of mitochondrial functions thus can be potentially fatal of cellular homeostasis and health. Acute respiratory distress has been earlier linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 infection severity leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and can be fatal. We tried to investigate possible connection between SARS-CoV-2, ARDS and mitochondria. Here, we report identification of SARS-CoV-2 non-structural proteins (particularly Nsp12 and 13) that have recognition sequence with respect to mitochondrial entry. We also report that these proteins can potentially shuttle between cytoplasm and mitochondria based on the localization signals and help in downstream maintenance of the virus. Their properties to use ATP for enzymatic activities may cause ATP scavenging allowing viral RNA functions in lieu of host cell health.
 Linear Oral Lichen Planus: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Panta Prashanth , Felix David , Andreadis Dimitrios , Seshadri Mukund
Published: June 2020

Mucosal irritation caused by cusps of upper and lower teeth represents a source of persistent, low grade mechanical trauma. This type of trauma can initiate and/or perpetuate oral lichen planus in a few susceptible patients. Here, we report a rare case of bilateral white linear striations in the buccal mucosa of a young patient, associated with sharp cusps. Oral lesions demonstrated a unique cuspal signature highlighting the causal role of subtle mucosal trauma in the genesis of reticular-oral lichen planus. Lesions appeared to be exacerbated by significant psychological distress experienced by the patient. Although the Koebner phenomenon is well reported in the cutaneous lichen planus literature, such presentations are relatively rare in the oral cavity. This report emphasizes the potential role of low-grade cuspal trauma/irritation in conjunction with psychological distress in the genesis of oral lichen planus.
Comparative Study of Mixture Model and Eulerian Model Used in Hydrocyclone with the Help of CFD Simulation
Authors: Saha Indrashis , Mukherjee Tathagata
Published: June 2020

Due to the accuracy of numerical calculation of fluid flow inside a hydrocyclone can be obtained using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), highly modified super computers are used to simulate the fluid flow and track particle motion inside a hydrocyclone. This paper deals with the numerical study using three multiphase models viz. Volume of fluid, Mixture and Eulerian model. The dimensions of the hydrocyclone taken into consideration for numerical analysis is same as considered by Rajamani. Validation of axial and tangential velocities at different strategically decided axial stations, RMS axial and tangential velocity profiles of the hydrocyclone is done using Reynolds Stress Model (RSM). The hydrocyclone model has been designed in Creo 3.0 using the same dimensions which later was imported to CFD for meshing. Fine hexagonal mesh numbering up to 5 lacs were constructed to obtain optimum results. Fluid flow was allowed to be developed in ANSYS FLUENT 16.2. Entire simulation took 96 hours to generate results and track particle movements inside the hydrocyclone. The particle tracking has been done using three multiphase model. The first being the volume of fluid was used for validation purposes and the comparison of the Mixture and Eulerian model are the basic focus of this research work. Conclusive results indicate that usage of different multiphase model does not result in variation in particle motion. The slight variation in grade efficiency values are hardly noticeable. The Mixture model and Eulerian model predict lower separation efficiency as compared with Volume of fluid multiphase model.
Моделирование колебаний нанопористых микрокантилеверов из анодного оксида алюминия для биохимических сенсоров
Authors: Симонов Валерий Николаевич , Simonov Valerii Nikolaevich , Матисон Н Л , Matison N L , Бойцова Ольга Владимировна , Boytsova Ol'ga Vladimirovna , Маркова Екатерина Борисовна , Markova Ekaterina Borisovna
Published: June 2020

Описаны результаты исследования колебаний микрокантилеверов (МК), выполненных из нанопористого анодного оксида алюминия и составляющих основу биохимических сенсоров. Конечно-элементное моделирование колебаний МК выявило источники появления в частотном спектре резонансов, не соответствующих колебаниям кантилевера и осложняющих разработку сенсоров. Впервые показано, что такими источниками являются резонансы колебаний основания МК на упругом слое компаунда, используемого для присоединения основания к подложке. Получены приблизительные соотношения между параметрами МК, основания и компаундного слоя, обеспечивающие присутствие в спектре только рабочих мод колебаний МК. Для обеспечения чистого спектра необходимо соблюдение одного из двух условий или их сочетания: достаточно жесткого крепления МК к подложке и достаточно малых размеров основания. Обеспечение чистого спектра достигается безотносительно к жесткости крепления МК, если длина основания не превышает: для 3-й, 4-й и 5-й гармоник рабочей моды МК соответственно 0.6, 0.43 и 0.33 длины МК.
Современные методы математического моделирования развития гидродинамических неустойчивостей и турбулентного перемешивания
Authors: Тишкин Владимир Федорович , Tishkin Vladimir Fedorovich , Гасилов Владимир Анатольевич , Gasilov Vladimir Anatol'evich , Змитренко Николай Васильевич , Zmitrenko Nikolai Vasil'evich , Кучугов Павел Александрович , Kuchugov Pavel Aleksandrovich , Ладонкина Марина Евгеньевна , Ladonkina Marina Eugenievna , Повещенко Юрий Андреевич , Poveschenko Yurii Andreevich
Published: June 2020

Изучение развития возмущений под действием различных гидродинамических неустойчивостей, а также переход к развитому перемешиванию и турбулентности,
уже на протяжении многих десятилетий представляет значительный интерес. В
первую очередь это связано с важностью этих процессов для различных областей
науки и техники. Кроме того, следует отметить, что до сих пор не получено окончательных результатов, касающихся, например, характеристик турбулентных течений. Всe это стимулирует большой интерес к данной тематике как в плане физической теории, так и в плане развития новых подходов к математическому моделированию соответствующих задач. Возможности современной вычислительной техники позволяют проводить численные эксперименты как в двумерных, так и в трeхмерных постановках, анализировать особенности предлагаемых новых численных
методов. В настоящее время на практике применяется огромное количество таких
методов со многими их модификациями. Данный обзор посвящен наиболее перспективным, по мнению авторов, из них.
An ECG signal model based on a parametric description of the characteristic waves
Authors: Dolinsky Pavol , Andras Imrich , Michaeli Linus , Saliga Jan
Published: June 2020

This article introduces a new electrocardiogram (ECG) signal model based on geometric signal properties. Instead of the artificial functions used in common ECG models, the proposed model is based on the modelling of real ECG signals divided into time segments. Each segment has been modelled using simple geometrical forms. The final ECG signal model is represented by the sequence of parameters of the base functions. Parameter variations allow for the generation of different waveforms for each subsequent heartbeat without mixing up the PQRST waves order. Two basic models utilize slightly modified elementary functions, which are computationally simple. A combination of both models allows for the modelling of irregularities in the consecutive heartbeats of the specific ECG waveforms. Respiratory, noise, and powerline interference can be added in order to make the generated ECG signal more realistic. The model parameters are estimated by differential evolution optimization and a comparison between the modelled ECG and the acquired signal. The proposed models are tested by the database included in the LabVIEW Biomedical Toolkit and ECG records in the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database.
Uncertainty of the Energy Measurement Function deriving from Distortion Power Terms for a 16.7 Hz Railway
Authors: Mariscotti Andrea
Published: June 2020

In electrified railways, harmonic active power terms can be significant in the order of the uncertainty required by the EN 50463-2 standard for power and energy measurements in railways. Nonactive power terms (encompassing reactive and distortion harmonic terms) are much more significant than the sole fundamental reactive power. This work considers the implementation of the EN 50463-2 energy measurement function, including the criteria for the significance of the measured and calculated terms, and it carries out a Monte Carlo analysis to assess the impact of harmonic power terms on the measured energy and its uncertainty.
A review of accurate phase measurement methods and instruments for sinewave signals
Authors: Balestrieri Eulalia , De Vito Luca , Picariello Francesco , Rapuano Sergio , Tudosa Ioan
Published: June 2020

The phase measurement of sinewave signals is important in  several applications, such as electric and electronic instrumentation; telecommunications; and optical interferometry. The uncertainty of the phase measurement has an essential role in ensuring the suitable performance of the devices and systems used by the relevant application. Some highly accurate phase measurement methods have been developed and implemented in different instrument types that are currently available on the market or have been proposed in the scientific literature, each capable of covering very different frequency ranges. This article presents an overview of these methods and instruments in order to highlight the characteristics in terms of the measurement uncertainty of the main methods and instruments that are used, by taking into account a varying operative frequency range. The standard deviations considered in the surveyed literature are used to identify a phase measurement method that is capable of covering a large high-frequency range, simultaneously maintaining a low value of measurement uncertainty, as requested by some applications (like waveform recorder frequency response testing).
Paleotopography controls weathering of Cambrian-age profiles beneath the Great Unconformity, St. Francois Mountains, SE Missouri, U.S.A.
Authors: Pevehouse Katie J. , Sweet Dustin E. , Šegvić Branimir , Monson Charles C. , Zanoni Giovanni , Marshak Stephen , Barnes Melanie A.
Published: June 2020

Precambrian (1.4 to 1.5 Ga) granite and rhyolite in the St. Francois Mountains at the northeast corner of the Ozark Plateau in Missouri has been altered down to a depth up to 8 meters below the Great Unconformity (the contact between Paleozoic sedimentary rock and underlying Precambrian). Petrographic, geochemical, and mineralogic data indicate that at least two events generated this alteration: 1) surficial weathering due to subaerial exposure of the granite before Cambrian burial—this material is preserved as a paleosol; and 2) alteration due to reaction with basinal fluids channeled along the unconformity from nearby sedimentary basins long after burial by Paleozoic strata. To assess the variation between surficial weathering and basinal fluid alteration, we measured and sampled for petrologic, geochemical, and mineralogic data in the rock at and just below the Great Unconformity at three paleoelevations. Whole-rock geochemical oxide and X-ray diffraction data indicate that K-metasomatism and highly crystalline illite occurred in each profile. The K increase reflects crystallization of authigenic feldspar and illite from basinal fluids that were channeled along the Great Unconformity during younger Paleozoic fluid-flow events. Each profile also exhibits an upward increase in altered feldspar crystals and highly crystalline kaolinite, and an upward decrease in Ca and Na. Such changes reflect soil formation due to reaction with meteoric water before Cambrian burial, indicating that the altered granite was a paleosol before Paleozoic basinal fluid-flow events. Notably, the paleosol at the highest paleoelevation displays the least amount of paleoweathering and the paleosol at the lowest displays the greatest amount of paleoweathering. These results demonstrate that not only can characteristics of the paleosol just below the Great Unconformity be recognized in the St. Francois Mountains, despite subsequent alteration, but also it is possible to detect variations in soil thickness that were controlled by slope steepness and, therefore, water availability and/or soil creep or failure. This spatial relationship is compatible with studies of modern soils which indicate that soil character varies with position on a slope.
Pengungkapan Tanggung Jawab Sosial Perusahaan Pada Tipe Perusahaan Di Indonesia
Authors: Setiani Eko Putri
Published: June 2020

This study aims to analyze the level of CSR disclosure in sustainability report and to analyze the comparison between GRI categories in high profile and low profile companies. The unit of analysis in this study are 34 companies that have published sustainability report. This research used content analysis method and the data are analyzed using descriptive statistic. The results of this study indicate that the average level of CSR disclosure of high profile companies is higher than low profile companies. The Economic category (EC) and Labor Practices and Decent Work sub-category (LA) are the categories with the highest disclosure rates in both high profile and low profile companies. In the Environmental category (EN), high profile companies do much higher disclosure than low profile companies. In the social category with sub category of Society (SO) and Product Responsibility (PR), there is no significant disclosure difference between high profile and low profile companies. The sub-category of Human Rights (HR) is the lowest-average category of disclosure in both high profile and low profile companies.
Quantification of Phase Behavior for Solvent/Heavy-Oil/Water Systems at High Pressures and Elevated Temperatures with Dynamic Volume Analysis
Authors: Chen Zehua , Zhao Zulong , Yang Daoyong
Published: June 2020

Accurate quantification of phase behavior of solvent/heavy-oil/bitumen/water systems at high pressures and elevated temperatures is of high significance for the design of vapor extraction, cyclic solvent injection, expanding-solvent steam-assisted gravity drainage (ES-SAGD), and hot-solvent injection processes. The relevant experimental data and theoretical analyses are still insufficient for achieving a reliable model. This is especially true when the system temperatures approach or exceed the critical temperatures of the solvents used (i.e., when the solvent density is large enough).

This study provides new experimental measurements of the phase behavior of propane (C3H8)/carbon dioxide (CO2)/heavy-oil/water systems at pressures up to 20 MPa and temperatures up to 432.3 K. More specifically, four feeds of C3H8/CO2/heavy-oil/water systems are used to conduct constant composition expansion (CCE) tests, during which the heights of the entire fluid system (i.e., total volume) and each phase are recorded at each pressure and temperature, respectively. Theoretically, a dynamic volume analysis (DVA) of the measured data is proposed for the first time to quantify each phase, provided that the assumption for vapor phase is valid and that the vapor and oleic phase densities can be accurately calculated. By tuning the binary interaction parameter (BIP) for solvent/heavy-oil pairs (denoted as BIPS−HO) to match the total volume, the height of the vapor/oleic (V/L) interface can be matched as well. By using the tuned BIPS−HO, the total volume and height of the V/L interface of C3H8/CO2/heavy-oil/water systems can be accurately predicted, no matter whether the solvent solubility in water is low (i.e., C3H8) or high (i.e., CO2). This DVA can be used to determine/evaluate the solvent solubility, saturation pressure/phase boundary, and phase volume/density accurately in a large temperature and pressure range. The newly proposed DVA method is also used to reproduce the experimental measurements collected from the literature, including phase-volume fractions, solvent solubility, and saturation pressure. In addition, the DVA method can serve as a tool to check whether the experimental measurements are reliable or not.
Mortality in free-ranging Eurasian brown bears (Ursus arctos arctos) in Spain '1998-2018'
Authors: Balseiro Ana , Royo Luis José , Gayo Elena , Balsera Ramón , Alarcia Olga , Marín Juan Francisco García
Published: June 2020

Background: This work summarizes the mortality cases of twenty-five free-ranging Eurasian wild brown bears (Ursus arctos arctos) from the Cantabrian mountain range submitted for necropsy in Asturias and Castilla y León (northwestern Spain) from ' 1998 to 2018'. Results: Causes of death were classified both caused by (i) "human intervention" or "natural causes" and based on (ii) "infectious" or "non-infectious" etiology. In four cases (16%) it was not possible to determine the cause of death due to the inadequate preservation of collected specimens or insufficient tissue availability. Based on "human intervention" or "natural causes", seven out of the 21 (33.3%) brown bears in which the cause of death could be determined died as a consequence of "human intervention" due to illegal hunting (shooting or snare), handling or strychnine poisoning. In contrast, fourteen (66.7%) brown bears died by "natural causes" due to traumatic lesions (fights, unknown traumas or infanticide), infectious canine hepatitis, neoplasia, or mushroom poisoning. Based on "infectious" or "non-infectious" etiology nine out of the 21 (42.9%) brown bears died due to "infectious diseases", namely gangrenous myositis, infectious canine hepatitis or septicemia. The remaining twelve (57.1%) animals died due to "non-infectious" causes, which included handling, traumatic lesions such as shooting, snare, fighting or infanticide, strychnine poisoning, mushroom poisoning or neoplasia. In six of those cases traumatic lesions caused by human activities or by natural causes were complicated with bacterial infection (clostridiosis and septicemia) which finally caused the death of those animals. Additionally, exertional myopathy was observed in the handled animal and in one bear found in a snare. Conclusions: In a non-hunted population of Eurasian brown bear from the Cantabrian mountain range, main cause of death is attributed to “natural causes” mostly due to traumatic lesions and infectious diseases (primary developed such as infectious canine hepatitis or secondary developed such as clostridiosis or septicemia) which is in contrast to previously reported data for other bear populations.These data are valuable and may help in the conservation and management of this recovering population.
A retrospective study of orthodontic treatment with pre-treatment gingival recessions
Authors: Antanaviciene Guoste , Smailiene Dalia , Baseviciene Nomeda , Zasciurinskiene Egle
Published: June 2020

Background: The development of gingival recessions (GR) after orthodontic treatment (OT) is well described in the literature. However, there is a lack of information about the changes in pre-existing GR during OT. Methods: This retrospective study aimed to examine the change of GR before and after OT. Intraoral photographs of 993 patients treated with fixed appliances between 2005 and 2017 were evaluated. Patients who had at least one GR on the vestibular surface of maxillary/mandibular teeth mesial to first molars were included. GR was measured on good quality plaster models before and after OT. The change of GR (T0-T1) was categorised into the three groups: worsened, did not change and improved (this group consisted of GR, which became better but did not disappear, and fully healed, which disappeared after OT)). The change of GR by ≥0.5 mm was recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Statistics (Version 22.0. Armonk, NY, USA). Results: Fifty-one (5.1%) patient had ≥1 GR before OT. Of them, 37 (72.5%) patients were included in the final analysis according to the inclusion criteria. GR before OT was found on 114 buccal/labial surfaces.Significant improvement of mean GR at patient level was found between T0 and T1 (0.45 mm, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.62) (p<0.001). At tooth level the median GR improvement was 0.55 (Q1; Q3: 0.12; 0.96) mm (p<0.001). GR improved in 67 teeth (58.7%), did not change in 41 (36.0%), and worsened in 6 (5.3%). Of the 67 GR, which improved, full healing was observed in 15 (22.4%) teeth. There was a lower chance for GR improvement in cases with pre-treatment open bite (OR 3.35; 95% CI: 1.14, 9.84; p=0.03) and dental Class III patients (OR 2.20; 95% CI: 0.92, 5.28; p=0.03). Conclusions: There was an improvement of GR after orthodontic treatment in most cases. Class III malocclusion and reduced pre-treatment overbite had a negative impact on GR improvement.
Association Between Social Support and Mental Health in Pre-Old and Old Age: Is It Different Depends on the Object? A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Li Yaya , Kabayama Mai , Kamide Kei
Published: June 2020

Background The association of social support with mental health for the older adults has been well documented; however, object-specific support was rarely discussed. This study examined the relationships of multiple aspects of social support, especially focusing on objects of social support, across different aging stages. Methods We conducted a self-reported cross-sectional survey in Osaka, Japan in 2013. We analyzed 659 pre-old and 888 old age participants. SF-36v2 was used to measure mental health. Objects of social support was divided into 3 categories (kin, friends, community) with integrating sub-dimensions of social support such as instrumental / emotional social support (function) and provided / received social support (role). Ordinary least squares, controlled for covariates, was carried out to analyze the variation among three objects of social support on mental health in two age groups. Results The results showed a positive association within the pre-old age group but not within the old age group. For the pre-old age group, either emotional or instrumental social support either provided to or received from a community neighbor had a positive association, while emotional social support provided to kin or friends and instrumental support received from friends didn’t show any relation to mental health.Conclusions The relationship between social support and mental health varied by objects and age groups.
Cross-sectional field trial to assess the efficacy of restricted application of deltamethrin 1% ready to use formulation: To adapt and develop cost-effective tsetse control strategy to be applied in Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Dereje Alemu , Aliyu AhImedin Beshir , Gebregiyorgis Behablom Meharenet , Beyene Tegegn Adugna
Published: June 2020

BackgroundProbability-based observational study design was used to collect the baseline data, data to isolate changes occurring overtime and data on last monitoring in which sampling involved stratified random selection of sampling units, since the surveying area is heterogeneous, at the outset, the area was isolated into subareas (strata) based on vegetation, climate, altitude, land use, distribution of human habitation, etc. into more or less homogeneous. Different trap traps design baited with odor attractants were deployed in a georeferenced locaitons. Then, animals were treated with deltamethrin 1%, using hypodermic syringe, at belly and legs body parts, as 0.06 ml of formulation per 1 kg of body weight which is less by 40% that needed for a whole body treatment regime The data processing was carried out based on quantitative data analyzing methods.Results The result of subsequent monitoring surveys depicted that the overall tsetse mean catch reduced by 78.6% from a mean catch of 17.3 ± 8.6 flies per trap per day of pre-control to 3.7 ± 2.6 flies per trap per day at last monitoring. And the reduction was found statistically significant; p=0.000. Consequentially, the overall mean trypanosome prevalence was dropped from a peak of 63 cases (11.6% ± 3.2) in November 2017 to the current level of 17 cases (3.9% ± 2.3) in June 2019. This resulted in a 66.4% reduction in which the difference was found statistically significant; p=0.000. The overall mean PCV value has also improved by 1.5% from 24.9%±3.2 of the reference data to 26.4% ± 3.4 at last monitoring and the difference was found statistically significant; p=0.002. ConclusionAs the findings of this field trial have proved, generally, insecticide-based control technique is one of the most reliable simplest techniques to rapidly suppress tsetse flies. Its cost effectiveness greatly enhances when it is applied in restricted application scenario. The technique has got a potential not only to reduce the amount of insecticide needed for the whole body application regimen by 40%, but also a potential to adequately suppress tsetse flies consequentially, trypanosomosis.
Predicting Survival for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: Development and Validation of Nomograms With Routine Hematological Biomarkers Based on the 8th Edition of AJCC/UICC Staging System
Authors: Liang Yu , Chen Kaihua , Yang Jie , Zhang Jing , Peng Rurong , Yan Chang , Shen Desong , Qu Song , Li Ling , Zhu Xiaodong
Published: June 2020

BackgroundThe 8th edition of AJCC/UICC TNM staging system (TNM system) and the previous nomograms have limitations, therefore we aimed to develop and validate nomograms incorporating routine hematological biomarkers with or without EBV DNA for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). We also evaluated the prognostic role of EBV DNA.Material and Methods1203 patients at our hospital from 2013 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed and divided into two parts (922 patients for primary cohort and 281 for validation cohort). Nomograms (nomogram with or without EBV DNA) were developed and compared with other models (TNM system alone, TNM system with EBV DNA), via comparison the prognostic role of EBV DNA was evaluated. Internal and external validation were performed. Risk stratification were conducted with recursive partitioning analysis.ResultsThe nomograms with EBV DNA for OS and PFS included sex, age, T category, N category, EBV DNA, albumin, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and lactate dehydrogenase. The nomograms without EBV DNA for OS and PFS included the same variables but without EBV DNA. The C-index for nomogram with EBV DNA was 0.715 for OS and 0.705 for PFS. For nomogram without EBV DNA, it was 0.709 and 0.700, respectively. It was 0.639 and 0.636 for TNM system alone and 0.648, 0.646 respectively for TNM system with EBV DNA. The nomograms with or without EBV DNA had better performance than both the TNM system alone and TNM system with EBV DNA, while the TNM system with EBV DNA were better than TNM system alone. The validation cohort indicates great applicability of nomograms. The patients were stratified into 4 risk groups.ConclusionThe nomograms with or without EBV DNA provide better prognostication than the TNM system and also the TNM system with EBV DNA. EBV DNA is valuable in predicting survival, but it is not suggested to incorporate EBV DNA alone to TNM system.
Interaction of TRPV1 and EP3 Receptor in Cough and Bronchopulmonary C-Neural Activities
Authors: Gao Xiuping , Zhuang Jianguo , Zhao Lei , Wei Wan , Xu Fadi
Published: June 2020

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-induced coughs in vivo and vagal nerve depolarization in vitro are inhibited by systemic and local administration of TRPV1 (JNJ 17203212) and prostaglandin EP3 receptor antagonists (L-798106) respectively. These results indicate an interaction of TRPV1 and EP3 receptor in cough responses to PGE2 likely through the vagal sensory nerve. This study aimed to determine whether 1) inhalation of aerosolized JNJ 17203212 and L-798106 affected cough responses to citric acid (CA to mainly stimulate TRPV1) and PGE2; 2) TRPV1 and EP3 receptor morphologically co-expressed and electrophysiologically functioned in the individual of vagal pulmonary C-neurons (cell bodies of bronchopulmonary C-fibers in the nodose/jugular ganglia); and 3) the interaction of the two receptors occurred in these neurons. To this end, aerosolized CA or PGE2 was inhaled by unanesthetized guinea pigs pretreated without or with JNJ 17203212 or L-798106 given in aerosol. Immunofluorescence was applied to identify the expression of the two receptors in vagal pulmonary C-neurons (retrogradely traced by DiI). Whole-cell patch clamp approach was used to detect capsaicin (CAP)- and PGE2-induced currents in the same neurons and determine the effects of the TRPV1 and EP3 receptor antagonists on the currents. We found that PGE2-evoked cough was attenuated by JNJ 17203212 or L-798106 and CA-evoked cough greatly suppressed only by JNJ 17203212. EP3-labeled neurons always co-expressed TRPV1 with a cell size < 20 µm and occupied 1/4 of vagal pulmonary C-neurons. Both CAP- and PGE2-induced currents could be recorded in the individuals of some vagal pulmonary C-neurons. The former was largely inhibited only by JNJ 17203212, while the latter was suppressed by JNJ 17203212 or L-798106. The similarity of the interaction in cough and vagal pulmonary C-neural activity suggests that a subgroup of vagal pulmonary C-neurons co-expressing TRPV1 and EP3 receptor is, at least in part, responsible for the interaction of the two receptors in the cough response to PGE2.
MicroRNA silencing of CNN1 and CNN2 protein family members regulates biology processes in colorectal cancer by targeting the p53 signal pathway
Authors: Huang Fuda , Wei Mingwei , Wang Anmin , Zhang Ya , Qin Zebang , Wu Yi , Li Hua , Gou Junyu , Jian Pu , Guo Houji
Published: June 2020

BackgroundCalponin was first defined as a striated muscle troponin T-like protein that binds actin thin filaments to regulate smooth muscle contraction. There are few studies of CNN1 and CNN2 in colorectal cancer, and the roles these two genes play in colorectal cancer cell lines and the mechanisms by which they act are unknown.MethodsWe used immunohistochemistry to identify expression of the two genes in the cancer tissues. RT-PCR was used to measure expression levels of microRNA. W performed western blots to measure changes in signaling pathways in the context of expression interference.Meanwhile, the same method was used to measure binding relationship between the two genes and key pathway proteins. To determine the relationship between microRNA and gene mRNA, we used the reporter gene method. We used the chi-square and t-test methods to analyze the significance and correlations of the data.Results and conclusionsExpression levels of CNN1 were lower in colon cancer tissues than in normal mucosal tissues. After downregulating CNN1, the cell cycle in colon cancer cell lines progressed quickly, and the expression of related pathway proteins also increased. Expression levels of CNN2 were higher in colon cancer tissues, and its downregulation significantly inhibited cell cycle progression in colon cancer cell lines. We confirmed correlations between the expression of microRNA and CNN2 using data analysis.Bars indicate ± standard errors.*p < 0.05; **p < 0.01 compared with the control. The inhibition of the expression of CNN2 mRNA using microRNA was confirmed using western blot. The combination of the two at the mechanism level was also demonstrated using the reporter gene method.
Psychological Impacts of COVID-19 among College Students in Dessie Town, Amhara Region, Ethiopia; Cross-sectional Study
Authors: W.Tadesse Abay , Mihret Setegn , Biset Gebeya , Muluneh Ayesheshim
Published: June 2020

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is a catastrophic health crisis that affects several nations across the world. Hence, such widespread outbreaks are associated with adverse mental health consequences. However, there is scarce information regarding the psychological impacts of COVID 19 on college students in Ethiopia. Thus, this study investigated the psychological impact of COVID-19 upon students.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 college students who were learning at randomly selected public and private colleges and universities in Dessie town. The sample was proportionally allocated into the four randomly selected colleges and the students were recruited using a systematic random sampling technique with every 6th interval that was obtained from each college’s registrar office. The data analysis was done using SPSS version 23.0. Variables with p-value < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were entered into the multivariable logistic regression model. Model fitness was checked using the Hosmer-Lemeshow model fit-ness-test. Statistical significant level was declared at a p-value < 0.05.Results: This study involved 408 students with a response rate of 96.6%. In this study, the overall psychological impact of COVID-19 among college students was 16.2% [95% CI: 12.7%, 19.9%]. Moreover, 77.2% of the students had experienced depression disorder. Similarly, 71.8% and 48.5% of students had experienced anxiety and stress disorders respectively. The multivariable logistic regression showed that being female [AOR=1.68, 95% CI 1.09, 2.91], having inadequate practice of prevention measures [AOR=1.74: 95% CI 1.01, 3.02] and living urban residency [AOR=0.76: 95% CI 0.48, 0.94] were the independent predictors of psychological problems among students.Conclusions: The study revealed the level of anxiety, stress, and depression disorders are optimally high among students. Therefore, local governments should develop effective psychological interventions for students. Moreover, it is important to consider the educational enrollment types and academic years of the students during the interventions.
Mechanical Investigation of a Novel Ceramic Composite Consisting of the YAG Matrix With Alumina Nanoparticles Fabricated by Slip Casting and the Conventional Sintering Process
Authors: Torki Mohammad , movahedi behrooz , ghazanfari S S. , Milani M.
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to fabricate YAG/Al2O3 ceramic composites with different alumina nanoparticles using slip casting and the atmospheric sintering process. In addition, some mechanical properties such as hardness and elastic modules of this novel ceramics were evaluated using the nanoindention technique. The results showed that the rheological behavior of the slurry was optimized to the solid loading of 55 wt% and the relative density of the green body was enhanced up to 65%. Relative density was increased after sintering at 1700 °C for 12 h to 99.5% and the pore size (150 nm) was reduced to half of that of powder particles. It should be noted that the optimum amount of alumina nanoparticles as a reinforcing agent in the matrix was less than 5%wt and the composite hardness was increased to 7.3%, as compared to the pure YAG ceramic.
Bioinformatic approaches towards identification of potential repurposable drugs for COVID-19
Authors: Mandal Manisha , Mandal Shyamapada
Published: June 2020

Repurposing existing drugs approved for other conditions is crucial to identifying specific therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 causing COVID-19 (coronavirus disease-2019) pandemic. Towards this attempt, it is important to understand how this virus hijacks the host system during the course of infection and determine potential virus- and host-targeted inhibitors. This study elucidates the underlying virus-host interaction based on differentially expressed gene profiling, functional enrichment and pathway analysis, protein-protein and protein-drug interactions utilizing the information on transcriptional response to SARS-CoV-2 infection from GSE 147507 dataset containing COVID-19 case relative to healthy control and infected cell culture compared to uninfected one. Low IFN signaling, chemokines level elevation, and proinflammatory cytokines release were observed markedly. We identified MYC-rapamycin and ABCG2-rapamycin interactions, and unique gene signatures in case (regulation of protein modification and MAPK signaling) as well as in cell (metabolic dysregulation and interferon signaling) different from known COVID-19 genes.
Epidemiological analysis of asymptomatic coronavirus disease 2019-infected individuals in the community based on an individual-based model
Authors: Guo Zuiyuan , Xiao Dan
Published: June 2020

Background: Asymptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-infected individuals (AIIs) is a special group that differs from COVID-19 patients. This will provide us with a deeper understanding on the impact of AIIs on the epidemic and a theoretical basis to establish more precise prevention and control measures to control this disease. Methods: We established an individual-based computer model to simulate the occurrence, infection, discovery, quarantine, and quarantine release (recovery) of AIIs or patients within the community. The model was used to explore the effects of measures such as active tracing, laboratory testing, active treatment, and home quarantine on the epidemic. Results: Given the condition that R0=1.2, when a case of imported AII was reported in the community, the implementation of measures reduced the number of AIIs and patients by 62.2% and 62.4%, respectively. The number of undetected AIIs and patients peaked at 302 d of the epidemic, reaching 53 and 20 individuals, respectively. Conclusion: The implementation of sustained active tracing, laboratory testing, active treatment, and home quarantine can significantly reduce probability of disease outbreak and block the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic caused by asymptomatic infected individuals in the community.
K284-6111 Alleviates Memory Impairment and Neuroinflammation in Tg2576 Mice by Inhibition of Chitinase-3-like 1 Regulating ERK Dependent PTX3 Pathway
Authors: Ham Hyeon Joo , Lee Yong Sun , Yun Jaesuk , Son Dong Ju , Lee Hee Pom , Han Sang-Bae , Hong Jin Tae
Published: June 2020

Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders characterized by gradual memory loss and neuropsychiatric symptoms. We have previously demonstrated that the 2-({3-[2-(1-Cyclohexen-1-yl)ethyl]-6,7-dimethoxy-4-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2-quinazolinyl}sulfanyl)-N-(4-ethylphenyl)butanamide (K284-6111), the inhibitor of CHI3L1, has an inhibitory effect on memory impairment in Αβ infusion mouse model and on LPS-induced neuroinflammation in the murine BV-2 microglia and primary cultured astrocyte. Methods In the present study, we investigated that the inhibitory effect of K284-6111 on memory dysfunction and neuroinflammation in Tg2576 transgenic mice, and more detailed correlation of CHI3L1 and AD. To investigate the effects of K284-6111 on memory dysfunction, we administered K284-6111 (3 mg/kg, p.o.) daily for four weeks to Tg2576, followed by behavioral tests of water maze test, probe test, and passive avoidance test.Results Administration of K284-6111 alleviated memory impairment in Tg2576 mice and had the effect of reducing accumulation of Aβ and neuroinflammatory responses in the mouse brain. K284-6111 treatment also selectively inactivated ERK and NF-κB pathways, which were activated when CHI3L1 was overexpressed, in mouse brain and in BV-2 cells. Web-based gene network analysis and our results of gene expression level in BV-2 cells showed that CHI3L1 is closely correlated with PTX3. Our result revealed that knockdown of PTX3 has inhibitory effect on the production of inflammatory proteins and cytokines, and on the phosphorylation of ERK and IκBα.Conclusion These results suggest that K284-6111 could improve memory dysfunction by alleviating neuroinflammation through inhibiting CHI3L1 through blocking ERK dependent PTX3 pathway.
Exploratory study of risk factors for congenital malformations in Morocco
Authors: Forci Khenata , Alami Mohamed Hassan , Bouaiti El Arbi , Slaoui Meriem , Ala Asmaa Mdaghri , Izgua Amal Thimou
Published: June 2020

Background: The aim of the study is to describe the teratogenic risk factors of congenital malformations in a large sample from the Moroccan population.Methods: It is a descriptive epidemiological study conducted between January 1st, 2011 and June 31th, 2016 at the "Les Orangers" maternity and reproductive health hospital in Rabat, Morocco.The data were collected on pre-established sheets and on the hospital’s malformations register.Results: A total of 245 cases of congenital malformations were recorded out of a total of 43923 births with a prevalence of 5.58 per thousand.Women over 35 years represent 24.1% of all cases. Consanguinity was found in 22.4% of cases, maternal diabetes in 7%, Fenugreek and herbs intake in 28.6%, and medication in 2.8%. Almost all of women (97.5%) are of low to moderate socio-economic level. Antenatal diagnosis was performed in only 28.6% of cases.Conclusion: Causes and risk factors of congenital malformations are diverse, which requires the application of large preventive and therapeutic approaches. However, the identification of risk factors specific to each country is necessary to establish specific preventive measures.
A Model of Care for Delivering Supports to Childcare Providers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Natale Ruby , Davidson Bridget , Woody Malaika , Kolomeyer Ellen , Mahmoud Farah D. , Valledor Victoria , Hidalgo-Ferrer Tatiana , Schenker Maite , Robleto Ana , Spector Rachel
Published: June 2020

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic is a life-changing crisis that has pervasive effects on our society, but perhaps the forgotten are the childcare programs serving the youngest children who are in out-of-home care while their parents are on the frontlines. The purpose of the Jump Start initiative was to develop a model of care to support childcare providers during the pandemic.Method: The Inter-Agency Standing Committee reference group for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) in Emergency Settings was used as a guideline to implement a 3-phase comprehensive tiered system of care.Results: In Phase 1, Workforce Development, 26 Mental Health Consultants were trained in trauma-informed care. 91 childcare providers completed Phase 2, Assessment of Needs through the Risk and Resiliency COVID-19 survey. Anxiety (72.6%), sleep disturbance (52.7%), and sadness/depression (39.6%) were reported impacts of the pandemic on providers. Accessing on-line services was the number one need identified. Phase 3, Resource Provision, established a 6-tiered model of care. There was a range of participation with 75% of providers participating in Tier 1 on-line supports to 40% receiving Tier 6 intensive mental health consultation.Conclusions: There is a distinct need to provide support for childcare providers especially given their role as a protective factor for children. Implementing a tiered mental health support system can potentially mitigate negative outcomes to improve the functioning of childcare settings. Understanding and addressing mental health and psychosocial considerations is the key to preventing the risk of long-term repercussion on the population’s wellbeing.