bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-expression network analysis identified novel potential Signature Genes Associated with human left ventricle cardiomyopathies arises from different etiologies
Authors: Tian Jiao , Wu Zhengyuan , He Yingying , LIU SHUBAI
Published: July 2020

Background: Heart disease is global pandemic and causes huge healthcare burden to society. However, it is still illusive that the whole transcription disorder pattern of cardiomyopathies arises from different etiologies. The Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was applied to construct and screen functional gene that be significantly related to different cardiomyopathies pathological feature. Through co-expression and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks enrichment analysis, the hub genes and key pathways were screened, which were correlated to cardiomyopathy traits. To discover the novel disease signature genes, cardiovascular disease bioportal database and were employed to blast and validate, which contained independently investigations of clinical cardiomyopathies cases. Results: The potential disease signature genes were identified and assorted into three common axes shared among five subtype of cardiomyopathies. Four genes (MDM4, CFLAR, RPS6KB1, PKD1L2) were shared by ischemic and ischemic cardiomyopathy group. The secondary axe contained eight signature genes (MAPK1, MAPK11, MAPK14, LMNA, RAC1, PECAM1, XIAP, CREB1) and was overlapped by Ischemic Cardiomyopathy, Post. Partum Cardiomyopathy, Familiar Cardiomyopathy and Idiopathic Cardiomyopathy. The third axe consisted of two common signature genes (TFAM, RHEB) that shared among the subgroups of Viral Cardiomyopathy, Post. Partum Cardiomyopathy, Familiar Cardiomyopathy and Idiopathic Cardiomyopathy. The majority of disorder functions and pathways were enriched in metabolic processes and pathways of MAPK signaling, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, regulation of actin cytoskeleton. Conclusion: These results strongly suggest that expression disorder of signature genes contribute to the cardiac dysregulation and functional relapse into cardiomyopathies. Taken together, these novel signature genes could be utilized as potential diagnostic biomarkers or therapy targets. It will be benefit the cardiomyopathy precise clinical diagnostics with better outcome. In summary, this study will attract great interest of clinical research scientists as well as medical scientists that work on heart diseases.
Genome-wide identification and expression profiling of the PIN auxin transporter gene family in L. chinense
Authors: Hu Lingfeng , Wang Pengkai , Long Xiaofei , Wu Weihuang , Zhang Jiaji , Cheng Tielong , Shi Jisen , Chen Jinhui
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThe genus Liriodendron is ancient and contains only two species, L. chinense and L. tulipifera. These two Liriodendron sister species, with a typical intercontinental discontinuous distribution in east Asia (L. chinense) and eastern North America (L. tulipifera), have great scientific value for paleobotany systematics. L. chinense is now recognized as an endangered species partially due to its low natural settling rate. In order to improve our understanding of how this species develops and grows and contribute to protecting this valuable relict species from extinction, it is necessary to explore the mechanisms underlying organ morphogenesis and embryonic development, in which auxin plays an important role. The auxin efflux carrier PIN-FORMED (PIN) proteins are required for the polar transport of auxin between cells through their asymmetric distribution on the plasma membrane, thus mediating the differential distribution of auxin in plants and, finally, affecting plant growth and developmental processes.ResultsIn this study, 11 PIN genes were identified in the L. chinense genome. The structural characteristics and evolutionary status of LcPIN genes were thoroughly investigated and interpreted combining physicochemical property analysis, evolutionary analysis, gene structure analysis, chromosomal localization, etc. In addition, motif sequences were used to predict possible functional sites. Further qRT-PCR experiments and transcriptome data analysis indicated that LcPIN genes may potentially play an important role during organ development and somatic embryogenesis in Liriodendron. For example, specific expression of LcPIN3 and LcPIN6a at different developmental stages of stamens and petals suggests their involvement in the development of these organs.ConclusionThis study provides a foundation for further genetic and functional analyses of PIN-mediated auxin patterning during organ morphogenesis and embryogenesis in L. chinense.
Psychological Status and Associated Factors During the Lockdown Period of the COVID-19 Epidemic in China: A Web-Based Survey
Authors: Chen Qi , Li Mengying , Zhang Ling , Ran Li , Chen Xuyu , Tan Xiaodong
Published: July 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to survey the general public in China to better understand their levels of psychological state and its influencing factors after the Wuhan shutdown on 23 Jan.Methods: A survey was conducted on Feb 20-24, using an online self-administrated questionnaire among 4071 participants. Data on subjective indicators of daily-life change was collected, and individual scores on changes in anxiety, depression, and stress were generated by 8-item, 11-item, and 6-item questions. After bivariate analyses, multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to investigate independent associations between socio-demographic variables, subjective indicators of changes in daily life， and summary scores including anxiety, depression, and stress scores.Results: Information from 3803 participants was available for analysis. Multivariable regression analyses showed that the anxiety (B=-1.27, 95%CI=-1.71 to -0.82), depression (B=-1.47, 95%CI=-2.06 to -0.88), and stress (B=-0.79, 95%CI=-1.13 to -0.46) scores of people in rural areas are lower than those in urban areas. People living in the other regions except Hubei, higher education were independent correlates of less negative emotions, while people with relatively high incomes had poor psychological status in anxiety (B=0.73, 95%CI=0.08 to 1.38),depression (B=1.45, 95%CI=0.60 to 2.30) and stress (B=0.65, 95%CI=0.17 to 1.13). Married people were less anxious (B=-0.67, 95%CI=-1.30 to -0.05), depressed (B=-1.14, 95%CI=-1.96 to -0.33), and stressed (B=-0.47, 95%CI=-0.93 to 0.00) than single people. The level of attention, self-assessed infection risk, impact of the daily life and mental-health help-seeking tended to be positively associated with the scores of anxiety, depression, and stress (p<0.001).Conclusions: Usual residence, education, marital status, monthly income, the level of attention, self-assessed infection risk, impact of the daily life and mental-health help-seeking are important correlates of the scores of anxiety, depression, and stress. Awareness of these relevant factors could help the government and related personnel to prevent more severe psychological trauma in the later period.
Artificial Intelligence Suggested Repositionable Therapeutics for Managing COVID-19: An Investigation with Machine Learning Algorithms and Molecular Structures
Authors: Sundar T.V. , Menaka K. , Vinotha G.
Published: July 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is almost half year old now and is still tormenting the humans to unimaginable extent with deeper interference to their routine life and peace. As approved vaccines are yet to be synthesized and standard therapeutic procedures are awaiting establishment for fighting against new Corona virus, several treatment modalities are being suggested and tried out by scientific community. Many of such approaches follow a drug repurposing approach as a possible remedy could prevent a great amount of loss in a shorter span of time. In this background, we report our attempt made for identifying a solution to this malady with a similar strategy. We used machine learning algorithms and the structural information of already approved drugs to identify potential therapeutics for managing the Covid-19 crisis. The experiments have been done with a group of 77 antiviral molecules (for the training phase of machine learning) and another group, comprising 9 antivirals and 11 antimalarials (meant for the testing phase). All the chosen molecules are approved category drugs and have significant drug action against the viruses. The identified molecules are subjected to validation by making docking studies with recently released crystal structures of Corona Virus. The binding affinity of the tested small molecules with three selected severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) structures are computed and compared with the affinity scores of five other medications viz. Hydroxychloroquine, Favipiravir, Dexamethasone, Dichlorobenzyl alcohol and Amyl metacresol followed by subjecting the results to the statistical test of ANOVA. The predicted therapeutics in conjunction with their already established characteristics could be further put to evaluation by approved clinical trials towards determining the efficiency of them against COVID-19 infection.
Online Metallic Surface Defect Detection Using Deep LearningOnline Metallic Surface Defect Detection Using Deep Learning
Authors: ÇEREZCİ Feyza , KAZAN Serap , Oz Muhammed Ali , Oz Cemil , Tasci Tugrul , Hızal Selman , Altay Çağlayan
Published: July 2020

Across a range of manufacturing contexts, automated quality control has been gaining significantattention because it offers competitive advantages such as cost reduction, high accuracy in defect detection, and system stability over time. Although computer vision has historically been the most commonly applied method in this context, novel approaches such as deep learning have recently become more frequent and are used in cases where traditional methods cannot be applied. Because of the surface texture and curvature of many metallic parts, detection of defects such as scratches, cracks, and dents can be challenging for traditional computer vision methods. In this study, an image acquisition system supported by a special lighting device that provides processable images from an extremely reflective cylindrical metallic surface has been developed. Multiple images obtained from a single lateral line of the surface, which is rotated at a specified speed, are combined using photometric stereo and given as input to a convolutional neural network that is employed to classify defective and non-defective samples. The results obtained from this method are close to 98.5% accurate.
Heavy Metal-Induced Co-Selection for Antibiotic Resistance in Terrestrial Subsurface Soils
Authors: Wang Xiaomin , Lan Bangrui , Fei Hexin , Wang Shanyun , Zhu Guibing
Published: July 2020

Background: Terrestrial surface ecosystems are important sinks for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) due to the continuous discharge of contaminants from human-impacted ecosystems. However, factors determining the abundance and resistance types of ARGs in terrestrial subsurface soils remain largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the abundance and diversity of ARGs, and their correlations with metal resistance genes (MRGs), mobile genetic elements (MGEs), bacteria, and heavy metals in subsurface soils in a global scale using high throughput quantitative PCR and metagenomic sequencing approaches. Results: Abundant and diverse ARGs were detected with high spatial heterogeneity among the sampling sites. Vertically, there was no significant difference in the ARG profiles between the aquifer and non-aquifer soils. Heavy metals were the key factors shaping ARG patterns in soils with high heavy metal contents, while they induced no significant effect in low contents. Moreover, heavy metals could trigger the proliferation of antibiotic resistance by increasing MGE abundance or influencing bacterial communities. Metagenomic analysis also revealed the widespread co-occurrence of ARGs and MRGs, with heavy metals possibly aggravating the co-selection of ARGs and MRGs in soils with high heavy metal contents. Conclusions: This study highlighted the heavy metal-induced co-selection for ARGs and MRGs and revealed the occurrence of ARG pollution in terrestrial subsurface soils.
Significance of CTNNB1 Mutation in Cellular Process, Prognosis, and Drug Selection in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Cheng Tianqiong , chen xuenong
Published: July 2020

Background: Numerous studies have reported that CTNNB1 mutant is a frequently mutated gene found in gastric cancer (GC), making this a valuable biomarker for GC. However, the underling mechanism of CTNNB1 regulating GC remains unknown.Aim of the study: To identify the significance of the CTNNB1 mutation in the prognosis and drug selection of GC, evaluate important genes and pathways that are involved in the pathogenesis of GC.Methods: Data sets were downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-STAD. CTNNB1 mutation and drug sensitivity analysis based on GDSC database. CTNNB1 wild group and mutant group analyzed by GSEA enrichment. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by LIMMA package for further GO and KEGG analysis. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of DEGs was constructed by STRING and visualized by Cytoscape software.Results: The CTNNB1 mutation is found in 8% of GC patients. Patients with CTNNB1 mutations had better prognosis on overall survival and disease-free survival. GC cells with CTNNB1 mutation are sensitive to Nutlin-3a. In total 727 genes were identified as DEGs. GO and KEGG analysis suggested that DEGs were significantly enriched in categories associated with cell differentiation and immune response, digestion related pathways and multiple signal transduction related pathways. Top three significant modules of genes in the PPI network were identified and analyzed.Conclusions: Our results indicated that multiple genes and pathways may play a key role in GC patients with CTNNB1 mutation, implicated these factors as possible targets for future therapeutic strategies in patients with GC.
Identifying Potential Prognostic Expression Quantitative Trait Methylation for Predicting Survival in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhang Guofeng , Dong Pengfei , Zhu Yonglin , Wang Jingsheng , An Fengmin , Shi Qingpeng , Zou Apeng , Wang Guosheng , Li Shanhui
Published: July 2020

Background: Osteosarcoma (OS) is a complex cancer and depends on multiple biological processes and pathways. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify reliable prognostic biomarkers for predicting clinical outcomes and helping personalize treatment of OS. Results: An expression Quantitative Trait Methylations (eQTMs)-based risk score model was developed to infer the prognostic efficacy for OS based on gene expression and methylation level. Some OS-specific eQTMs were identified and divided to positive and negative eQTMs. We found that some OS-specific eQTMs were significantly associated with survival in OS according to the eQTM-based risk score. The global characteristics for these prognosis-associated eQTMS were depicted and analyzed. These prognosis-associated eQTMS are stable in multiple experiments and showed better performance in predicting survival than single gene expression, age and gender of OS. Functional analysis indicated that the genes in prognosis-associated eQTMS were associated with essential biology processes of cancer development. In addition, these genes were also drug targets for many kinds of drugs and may provide assistance for studying drug repurposing of OS. Conclusion: These results highlight the potential of eQTMs as novel diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic targets for OS.
Differential Immune Signatures in the Tumor Microenvironment are Associated with Colorectal Cancer Racial Disparities: A Cohort Study of Biorepository Data
Authors: Curran Thomas , Sun Zequn , Gerry Brielle , Findlay Victoria J. , Wallace Kristin , Li Zihai , Paulos Chrystal , Ford Marvella , Rubinstein Mark P. , Chung Dongjun , Camp E. Ramsay
Published: July 2020

Background: Disparities in colorectal cancer outcomes may be due to a more aggressive phenotype in African American patients in the setting of a decreased tumor immunity, though the precise mechanism for this result has not been well elucidated. To explore the molecular factors underlying colorectal cancer disparities, we compared the immunogenomic signatures of colorectal cancer from African American and European American patients.Methods: We identified all colorectal cancer patients from the publicly available Cancer Genome Atlas for whom race and survival data are available. Immunophenotype signatures were established for African American and European American patients. Comparisons were made regarding survival and a multivariable linear regression model was created to determine the association of immune cellular components with race. Differential gene expression was also assessed. Results: Of the 254 patients identified, 58 (23%) were African American and 196 (77%) were European American. African American patients had a decreased progression free survival (p=0.04). Tumors from African American patients displayed a reduced fraction of macrophages and CD8+ T cells and an increased fraction of B cells compared with tumors from European Americans. Differences persisted when controlling for sex, age and disease stage. Immunostimulatory and immunoinhibitory gene profiles including MHC expression differed by race. Conclusions: Differences in the tumor immune microenvironment of African American as compared to European American colorectal cancer specimens may play a role in the survival differences between the groups. These differences may provide targeted therapeutic opportunities.
Willingness and Associated Factors of Engaging in Aged Care Among Undergraduate Nursing Students in China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Guo Yujie , Yang Lei , Zhu Lingli , Wan Yu , Zhang Shujun , Zhang Jie
Published: July 2020

Background: There is an increasing demand for nurses to work with older adults with the increase of life expectancy. However, the willingness of nursing students to work with older adults is at a low level. Methods: This study aimed to further explore the willingness and associated factors of undergraduate nursing students to engage in aged care. A convenience sampling method was employed from May to July 2017 in China. Results: Of the 853 students surveyed, 38.1% were willing to engage in aged care after graduation. Expectancy, interest, attainment value, cost, prejudice, whether they like nursing profession and whether they participated in elderly-related activities were the most significant predictors of the students’ willingness to engage in aged care. Conclusions: This suggests that nursing educators have an important part in challenging students' stereotype of older adults and enhance their interest in caring for older adults through both well-designed curriculum and elderly-related activities, so as to improve their confidence and willingness to engage in aged care.
Unravelling promise of Indian herbal compounds as potential COVID-19 therapeutic agent
Authors: ALAM SHAHENVAZ , FATIMA SYEDA WARISUL , KHARE SUNIL K.
Published: July 2020

COVID-19 pandemic, an unprecedented devastation, humanity needs an urgent cure to save the mankind from this deadly disease. Over six million people have been infected worldwide, with 6.3% reported deaths till date. SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease has been isolated recently and the vaccine’s development is at nascent stage. At present, there are a few anecdotal evidences that anti-viral/anti-inflammatory/anti-malarial drugs can mitigate the disease. In the present study, we envision the potency of traditional Indian medicinal compounds that can be used as an effective drug. The viral SARS Coronavirus E protein plays a key role in virus life cycle and can be a potential drug target for the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs. Using the crystal structure of the CoV-E protein, we performed virtual PyRX screening of Indian medicinal compounds which are reported to have efficacy in the treatment of some viral infections. Molecular docking studies were evaluated based on scores analysed by CavityPlus. The herbal compounds used were found to be more efficient in inhibiting the virus as compared to commercially available drugs. The results showed that β-boswellic acid and Glycyrrhizic acid possessed the best binding as a ligand with target molecule having binding affinity of -9.1 kcal/mol amongst eleven compounds screened. The study demonstrated that these are found to be strong SARS-CoV-2E protein inhibitors as they revealed compatible, near perfect dock in the overlapping region of functional viral protein pockets. These potential hit compounds can pave a way for designing of anti-viral therapeutics.
Comparative Analysis of UV Treatment and Heat Treatment on Fatty Acids Profile of Milk
Authors: Mubeen Rafia , Hassan Ali , Rashid Zonia , Nisa Sahar Un , Saeed Farhan , Afzaal Muhammad , Anjum Faqir Muhammad , Tufail Tabussam
Published: July 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Non-linear progression of chronic kidney disease and associated factors in hypertensive patients: a 4-year cohort study
Authors: Silva Luciana Saraiva da , Moreira Tiago Ricardo , Silva Rodrigo Gomes da , Cotta Rosângela Minardi Mitre
Published: July 2020

Background

Recent studies suggest that the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not linear, but we do not have clear evidence on this issue, especially in hypertensive patients. We sought to evaluate the progression of CKD and associated factors over four years in a cohort of hypertensive patients.
Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study during the years 2012 and 2016, with hypertensive patients diagnosed with CKD (n = 113). The progression of CKD was assessed through the evolution of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and the change in the stage of CKD between 2012 and 2016. Sociodemographic, economic, lifestyle, clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical variables were evaluated. The strength of the association between CKD progression and explanatory variables was assessed by odds ratio (OR) and their respective 95% confidence intervals using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.
Results

Regarding progression, 78.1% of the CKD patients did not progress over four years. When assessing the CKD trajectory (2012–2016) through the evolution of GFR, there was a mean reduction of 1.3 mL/min/1.73m² in four years. In the group that progressed, there was a reduction of 13 mL/min/1.73m², while in the group that did not progress, there was an increase of 2 mL/min/1.73m². In the multivariate analyses, age (p = 0.047), diabetes mellitus (DM) (p = 0.042), and urea (p = 0.050) were independently associated with CKD progression.
Conclusions

The findings of the present study showed a non-linear progression of CKD over the four years, contrary to what is traditionally expected. Age, DM and urea were independently associated with CKD progression.
Evaluating of the predictors of high blood pressure in children and adolescence: Findings from Iranian health care system reform plan
Authors: Taghizadeh Shahnaz , Farhangi Mahdieh Abbasalizad , Pourali Fathollah , jafarabadi mohammad asghari
Published: July 2020

Objective: The aim of this study is the evaluate of dietary pattern and life style associated factors in predicting hypertension among overweight and obese pediatrics. In the current cross-sectional study, 425 overweight and obese children and adolescents aged 6 to 18 years were enrolled. The predictors of blood pressure were included in the scoring algorithm. Results: The results showed that SBP and DBP had directly correlation with age (p<0.001, p<0.001) and BMI (p<0.005, p<0.007) respectively. Moreover, DBP was in correlation with fruit consumption of less than 2 serving per day versus never consumption (p=0.014, B= 0.444), fruit consumption of more than 2 serving per day versus never consumption (p=0.014, B= 0.480), and vegetable consumption less than 3 serving per day versus never consumption (p=0.045, B= -0.374). Also, results showed that DBP had significant correlation with fast foods /junk foods consumption of 1-2 items per week versus almost every day consumption (p= 0.047, B=-0.177). This final model could predict 32.1% of hypertension by SBP and DBP (R2 =0.321). According to our findings, consumption of lower vegetables and fruits, higher amounts of fast foods, higher age and BMI could be potent predictors of high blood pressure among Iranian children and adolescents.
Association of IL-17A -197G/A (rs2275913) Single Nucleotide Polymorphism and Rheumatoid Arthritis in Sudanese Patients
Authors: Osman Rgda Mohamed , Noma Mounkaila , Ahmed Abdallah Elssir , Omer Rihab Ali , Albsheer Musab M. Ali , Alameen Ayman Ali Mohammed , Edris Ali Mahmoud Mohammed , Muneer Mohamed S. , Ahmed Ayman , Mohamed Nouh Saad , Siddig Emmanuel
Published: July 2020

Objectives: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease. The aim of this study is to determine the association of IL-17A -197G/A polymorphism with RA in Sudanese Patients. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between March and December, 2018. Clinical and demographic data of the study participants were collected and analysed. All statistical tests were considered as statistically significant when p < 0.05.Results: The study population included 266 participants, 166 (63.1%) were females [mean age 41.4 ± 15.5 years] and 97 (36.9%) were males [mean age 36.2 ± 16.0 years]. Of the 266 participants, 31% (85/266) were RA cases and 69% (181/266) were healthy controls. Prevalence of IL-17A genotypes among the study population was 52.6% (140/266) were AG heterozygote genotype, 38.4% (102/266) were AA homozygote genotype, and 9.0% (24/266) were GG homozygote genotype. Correlation of IL-17A genotypes was negatively statistically significant based on participants clinical status, and family history of RA, Pearson’s correlation [r = -0.392, P value 0.001] and [r = -0.226, P value 0.001], respectively, while positively statistically significant with gender, Pearson’s correlation [r = 0.140, P value 0.023]. Based on the duration of RA, no statistically significant correlation was observed, Pearson’s correlation [ r = -0.138, P value 0.207].
A Novel Use of Structural Equation Modeling to Examine Life-style and Cardio-metabolic Factors Associated With Micro-vascular Endothelial Dysfunction in Middle-aged Chinese Males
Authors: Miao Rujia , Yu Renhe , Zhou Hui , Liu Lei , wang jiangang
Published: July 2020

Objective: The present study aims to use structural equation modeling with multiple regression pathways to examine direct and indirect association of potential behavioral (diet, physical activity and sleep) and cardio-metabolic risk factors with micro-vascular endothelial dysfunction (ED) among middle-aged Chinese males.Methods: The study was conducted in 306 middle-aged Chinese males, who underwent a health checkup between 2018 and 2019. Data on life-style behavior factors (physical activity, diet pattern, sleep quality, and diet data underwent exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis [EFA and CFA] in advance) and cardio-metabolic risk factors referring to metabolic syndrome [blood pressure, triglyceride (TG), fasting blood glucose, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and body mass index] were introduced into the structural equation model to examine interrelationship among these factors and their association with ED, as evaluated by the reactive hyperemia index (RHI). Results: Impaired ED defined by RHI <1.67 occurred in 39.2% of the participants. Both EFA and CFA identified two major dietary patterns: "prudent pattern" and "western pattern". The univariate test suggested that only TG and prudent dietary pattern were directly associated with RHI. Furthermore, prudent dietary pattern had a direct association with RHI (β=0.16, P<0.05) and an indirect association via triglyceride (Prudent diet→TG: β=-0.15, P<0.05; TG→RHI: β=-0.17, P<0.001). As to confirming the hypothesized association between variables apart, physical activity frequency was correlated to the decrease in TG (β=-0.29, P<0.001), but had no direct correlation to RHI.Conclusion: The network of direct and indirect associations among life-style behavioral and cardio-metabolic risk factors with RHI measured ED among middle-aged males. The most significant modifiable factors identified were TG and prudent diet pattern, which needs to be targeted as preventive strategies for early micro-vascular impairment.
Investigation and Analysis of Biosafety Awareness Among Hospital Laboratory Staff in Seven Provinces of China
Authors: Li Sisi , Liu Bo , Li Jing , Yao Cijiang , Zhao Chihong
Published: July 2020

Background: To understand the biosafety awareness of hospital laboratory staff in seven provinces of China, and to provide a basis for medical staff to carry out laboratory biosafety education. Methods: By using a stratified random sampling method, 188 laboratory staff from 41 hospitals in seven provinces were selected for a face-to-face questionnaire survey. In this survey, the biosafety awareness of the respondents was scored, and the biosafety awareness among hospital laboratory staff were evaluated based on the score. Results: The overall average score of laboratory staff in the surveyed hospitals was 81.64 points, and the average score of the biosafety awareness in the laboratory was 95.57 points, while the average score of biosafety awareness in risk assessment and control was only 44.68 points. Among the respondents, 57.22% of the staff identified a lack of special funds relating to biosafety activities. Conclusion: Biosafety awareness of laboratory staff is low, with laboratory funding, education level and years of laboratory work affecting the biosafety awareness of hospital laboratory staff. Biosafety training needs to be improved by paying attention to the biosafety training content, plus adding training effect evaluation and feedback loops, as well as exploring new training modes and increasing the support through special hospital biosafety funds.
Concepciones epistemológicas de los docentes del área de matemáticas en educación básica
Authors: Hernández Suárez César Augusto , Prada Núñez Raúl , Gamboa Suárez Audin Aloiso
Published: July 2020

El presente trabajo tiene por objetivo establecer las concepciones epistemológicas de los docentes del área de mate-máticas en educación básica, en su práctica pedagógica. Se analizó la relación entre lo desarrollado en la institución y lo estipulado por el Ministerio de Educación Nacional (MEN), por medio de un enfoque cualitativo y a partir de un método etnográfico. Los resultados evidencian que en las prácticas pedagógicas de los maestros no prevalecen situaciones problemáticas contextualizadas, por lo cual las clases son rutinarias, poco impactantes y el ambiente del aula se torna inmanejable. Además, no hacen un uso adecuado de los textos educativos y no se evidencia el uso de material educativo, como las herramientas tecnológicas.
Contaminación electromagnética y principio de precaución de norma crepuscular a criterio jurídico vinculante
Authors: Vargas-Chaves Iván , Gómez-Rey Andrés , Ibáñez-Elam Adolfo
Published: July 2020

El presente artículo presenta el rol que el principio de precaución ha venido adquiriendo en el ordenamiento como un criterio jurídico vinculante. Para lograr este objetivo propuesto se lleva a cabo un estudio de línea jurisprudencial tomando como caso de referencia la invocabilidad del principio en casos de contaminación electromagnética; acompañado de un barrido dogmático sobre las cuestiones bases de la problemática descrita. El artículo se plantea en tres grandes partes, en la primera, se presentan conceptos clave para el desarrollo del mismo, en la segunda se lleva a cabo el estudio de la citada línea jurisprudencial y, por último, se proponen unos criterios de invocabilidad a manera de ejercicio propositivo.
Improving the management of patients with a diagnosis of chronic cerebral ischemia
Authors: Parfenov V. A.
Published: July 2020

The diagnosis of сhronic cerebral ischemia is widely used in domestic neurological practice. A significant part of the patients observed with a diagnosis of сhronic cerebral ischemia suffer from primary or secondary headache, dizziness of various origins, emotional disorders and other diseases that are not diagnosed and therefore do not have effective treatment. Improving the management of patients with a diagnosis of сhronic cerebral ischemia requires the diagnosis and treatment of other diseases that are erroneously defined as сhronic cerebral ischemia. The observation data of 90 patients are analyzed, in which the identification of primary headaches (chronic migraine, chronic tension headache) and drug-induced headache allowed an adequate and effective combination treatment, including rational pharmacotherapy, educational conversations, cognitive-behavioral therapy sessions, relaxation classes and therapeutic exercises, with a pronounced positive effect. The results of a survey of 700 patients are discussed, in which the identification of the causes of dizziness (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, Meniere’s disease, vestibular neuronitis, emotional disorders with instability) made it possible to carry out effective treatment, while most patients were observed for a long time with a diagnosis of chronic cerebral ischemia or vertebrobasilar insufficiency. In the management of patients with vascular cognitive impairment, which is the main clinical manifestation of chronic cerebrovascular disease, the leading role is given to both non-drug methods (regular physical activity, smoking cessation) and drug therapy aimed at normalizing blood pressure and blood lipid spectrum, preventing blood clots and improving cognitive function. The possibilities of naftidrofuril and nimodipine as drugs for improving cognitive function are discussed.
Many years of experience in using a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin in clinical practice
Authors: Dydykina I. S. , Kovalenko P. S. , Kovalenko A. A.
Published: July 2020

The article presents the main approaches to choosing the treatment of osteoarthritis and the main links in the pathogenesis of this disease. The effects of glucosamine and chondroitin on the main pathogenetic mechanisms of osteoarthritis that prevent its progression are described. There are discussed an effectiveness and safety of treatment of the disease with a focus on the use of a combination of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate (Arthra), as well as their combination with methylsulfonylmethane and sodium hyaluronic acid (Arthra MSM). Methylsulfonylmethane reduces pain, it is involved in the processes of maintaining and regeneration of connective tissue, in the synthesis of sulfated glycosaminoglycans and collagen. It is suggested that this compound may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties due to the inhibition of the nuclear factor kB signaling pathway, which allows to reduce the local and systemic inflammatory response, as well as suppressing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and much more. This article also presents experimental and clinical evidence of the effectiveness and safety of these compounds. It has been convincingly demonstrated the possibility with these drugs to reduce joint pain and the need for analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, to improve the quality of life. Currently, symptomatic slow-acting drugs, which include the discussed ones, are recommended to be prescribed as first-line drugs for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Timely administration of symptomatic slow-acting drugs, their long-term use contributes not only to reducing the progression of the disease, but also makes it possible to avoid or delay endoprosthetics. In this article there is indicated the contribution of Russian scientists to obtaining evidence of the effectiveness and safety of Arthra and Arthra MSM in the application of various treatment modes in osteoarthritis of the knee joints and lower back pain.
Bone mineral density and fracture risk in patients with rheumatic diseases
Authors: Dobrovolskaya O. V. , Efremova A. O. , Demin N. V. , Toroptsova N. V.
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) and risk of fractures in rheumatic diseases (RD) is caused by the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying RD and the effects of drugs used to treat them on bone.

Aim of the study: to assess the condition of BMD, frequency and risk of fractures in postmenopausal women with different RD.

Material and methods: The study enrolled 260 women in postmenopause (median age 61 years) (54; 68 year) with systemic scleroderma (SS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). Patients were sanitized and examined using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry; a 10-year risk of fractures was calculated using the FRAX® algorithm.

Results: A reduced BMD was observed in 210 (81%) women with RD, while osteoporosis (OP) was found in 43% of women with SS, 31% of women with RA and 17% of women with OA. In all RD, osteoporosis was more common in the lumbar spine than in the proximal femur. The frequency of low-energy fractures in the anamnesis was 35, 29 and 20 percent for those with SS, RA and OA, respectively. The most frequent fractures among women with SS and RA were vertebral fractures, and in patients with OA - forearm fractures. The 10-year risk of new fractures according to FRAX® and the need for antiosteoporotic treatment in women with OA was less than in patients with SS and RA (p < 0.0001). Of all patients examined, 44% needed pathogenetic antiosteoporotic therapy, and in actual practice 25% of women received it. Patients with RA were most often treated with zoledronic acid, alendronate and parenteral form of ibandronate.

Conclusions: The frequency of OPs and the 10-year risk of fractures in autoimmune RD was significantly higher than in OA. The structure of low-energy fractures in RD is different: in autoimmune processes and glucocorticoids (GC) intake, spinal compression fractures were significantly more common. Pathogenetic treatment for OP in women in post-menopause with RD is not performed frequently enough, which may cause repeated low-energy fractures.
Acute cerebral circulatory disorders and coronavirus disease
Authors: Pizova N. V. , Pizov N. A. , Skachkova O. A. , Sokolov M. A. , Izmaylov I. A. , Taramakin R. B.
Published: July 2020

The new COVID-19 coronavirus infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 is a global health threat. Neurological disorders detected in patients with coronavirus infection have a wide range of clinical signs: headache, dizziness, altered level of consciousness, acute ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Evidence suggests that patients with more severe systemic symptoms were more likely to experience neurological symptoms. The main risk factors for the development of ischemic stroke in patients with coronavirus infection are considered. It was shown that COVID-19 more often occurred in people with vascular risk factors, among which the mortality rate was higher. Various possible and not mutually exclusive mechanisms which may play a role in the development of ischemic stroke in patients with COVID-19 are described in detail, including hyper-inflammatory state («cytokine storm»), «COVID-19-associated coagulopathy», and disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome. Stroke risk factors associated with the critical condition in these patients are presented. Stroke, the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, requires immediate treatment and decision-making as well as 24/7 availability for specialized vascular centers. The results of observation of patients with acute cerebral circulation disorder in specialized vascular centers 2 months before and 15 days after quarantine due to COVID-19 are presented. The tactics of managing patients with ischemic stroke under conditions of coronavirus infection is considered.
Cognitive and emotional impairment in patients with chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency
Authors: Bogolepova A. B.
Published: July 2020

Cerebrovascular disease is one of the most important problems of clinical neurology, which is a significant cause of cognitive impairment and depression. Chronic forms of cerebrovascular insufficiency are most often associated with cerebral microangiopathy or a disease of small vessels, which is characterized by the presence of lacunae, microinfarction and microbleeding, leukoaraiosis and dilated perivascular spaces. One of the main and most common clinical symptoms is vascular cognitive impairment. They are characterized by extremely variable cognitive deficits, highly dependent on the location and severity of vascular damage. However, clinical manifestations associated with impaired frontal circulation are usually observed. Recent international criteria for vascular cognitive impairment presented by the VASCOG (International Society for Vascular Behavioral and Cognitive Disorders) working group emphasize the particular importance of impaired information processing speed, attention, and/or frontal regulatory functions, often in combination with personality or emotional disorders. The frequency of vascular depression in chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency reaches 70%. The addition of affective disorders significantly aggravates the existing cognitive deficit, increases the risk of dementia. This is due to the fact that depression itself leads to the development of cognitive impairment, causes multiple functional disorders of cerebral microcirculation and a number of other mechanisms. The presence of cerebral microangiopathy underlying this pathology makes the use of drugs with vascular effects in the treatment of these patients. The use of preparations with multimodal action, in particular the combined drug and, is most preferable.
Diagnostics and treatment of chronic cerebral ischemia
Authors: Zakharov V. V. , Vakhnina N. V. , Gogoleva A. G. , Mezhmidinova S. K.
Published: July 2020

5560 patients with the diagnosis “Other cerebral vascular diseases” per 100 000 of elderly population were registered in RF in 2017. Usually this is a code for chronic brain ischemia (CBI) – the most popular diagnosis in Russian neurological practice. However, diagnostic criteria of CBI are not well defined and need to be ascertained. Recent studies show that the most reliable clinical feature of CBI could be cognitive impairment. It is developed before other clinical signs and correlate with severity of vascular brain lesions. Typically, cognitive impairment is subcortical with prominent bradyphrenia, attentional, dysexecutive and visuospatial deficit and relative sparing of memory. However clinical diagnosis of CBI could be only hypothetical. Diagnosis should be verified by MRI or other visualization technic. Diagnosis is verified if neuroimaging revealed silent strokes, microbleeds and vascular leukoencephalopathy. The most important objective of chronic brain ischemia management is the control of basic vascular disease. Besides this, pathogenetic therapy should be performed to improve cerebral microcirculation, neuronal metabolism and to provide neuroprotection. There is positive data on dipyridamole usage in chronic brain ischemia. It has desagregative, vasotropic, antioxidative and antiinflammation properties. Dypiridamole treatment in CBI patients lead to decrease of neuropsychiatric symptoms and improvement of well-being.
Issues of therapy of chronic non-specific lumbodynia
Authors: Parfenov V. A. , Parfenova E. V.
Published: July 2020

Low back pain or lumbalgia is one of the most common reasons for going to the doctor. Non-specific (musculoskeletal) pain is the most common (90%) cause of chronic lumbalgia. The chronic course of lumbalgia is determined not only by the anatomical sources of pain, but also by psychological and social factors that should be considered when managing patients. In the treatment of chronic nonspecific lumbalgia, a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach is effective, including optimization of drug therapy and motor activity, psychological methods (cognitive-behavioral therapy), an educational program, and manual therapy. When identifying common emotional disorders and insomnia, their therapy is required. Kinesitherapy (therapeutic gymnastics) is the most effective direction in the treatment of chronic nonspecific lumbalgia; оf primary importance are the regularity of physical exercises under the supervision of a specialist, the exclusion of sudden and excessive movements. In combination with activities, regular walking is highly effective. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most effective psychological direction in the management of patients with chronic nonspecific lumbalgia. It should be aimed not only at pain, but also at those often found in chronic non-specific lumbalgia insomnia, depression, and anxiety disorders. In some patients with damage to the facet joints, the sacroiliac joint, radiofrequency denervation or therapeutic blockades with anesthetics and corticosteroids can be used. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used as medicines for chronic nonspecific lumbalgia, when prescribing them, it is necessary to take into account the presence and nature of risk factors for adverse events, concomitant diseases, interaction with other drugs The use of etoricoxib in chronic non-specific lumbalgia is discussed.
On the mechanisms of the synergistic action of tolperisone, meloxicam and B vitamins in the treatment of peripheral pain syndromes
Authors: Gromova O. A. , Torshin I. Yu. , Putilina M. V. , Maiorova L. A. , Semenov V. A.
Published: July 2020

Introduction:The combined use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants and group B vitamins is a promising direction for combined pharmacotherapy of peripheral pain syndromes.

Purpose:to analyze the molecular mechanisms of the synergism of the muscle relaxant tolperisone, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug meloxicam and vitamins B1, B6and B12as part of complex pharmacotherapy of pain.

Materials and methods:differential chemoreactome analysis of NSAID molecules and muscle relaxants, proteomic analysis of the effects of B vitamins.

Results:Synergistic interactions are maintained by (1) inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 and leukotriene A4 hydrolases; (2) inhibition of the effects of IL-1β, TNFα, NF-kB, TLR4, RANKL, matrix metalloproteinases; (3) antioxidant effect (increased expression of superoxide dismutase-1 and glutathione peroxidase). Group B vitamins enhance the effects of tolperisone and meloxicam due to the manifestation of independent anti-inflammatory (neutralization of homocysteine, decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL-1b and factor NF-kB activity), analgesic (modulation of opioidergic pathways) and neuroprotective effects (support of amino acid expression, metabolism and neuro lipids, ATP synthesis and remyelination).

Conclusions:The triple scheme “tolperisone + meloxicam + vitamins B1/ B6/ B12” is characterized by a number of undeniable advantages: (1) lack of dependence, (2) anti-inflammatory effect, (3) neuroprotective and remyelinating effects, (4) elimination of muscle hypertonicity. Such combination therapy can be used in patients of various age groups with comorbid conditions (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, cerebrovascular diseases, gastrointestinal diseases) and does not require an increase in NSAIDs and significantly reduces the risk of side effects.