bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated serum levels of checkpoint molecules in patients with adult Still’s disease
Authors: Fujita Yuya , Asano Tomoyuki , Matsumoto Haruki , Matsuoka Naoki , Temmoku Jumpei , Sato Shuzo , Furuya Makiko Yashiro , Suzuki Eiji , Watanabe Hiroshi , Koga Tomohiro , Kawakami Atsushi , Migita Kiyoshi
Published: May 2020

Background: The interaction between galectin-9 (Gal-9) and its ligand, T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-containing-molecule-3 (TIM-3), one of the coinhibitory receptors, transduce the inhibitory signaling to regulate immune responses. The dysregulated expression of checkpoint molecules has been reported under various inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. The aim of this study is to investigate the levels of these checkpoint molecules and their associations between proinflammatory markers in patients with adult Still’s disease (ASD). Methods: Serum samples were collected from 47 patients with active ASD, 116 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and 29 healthy controls (HCs). Serum levels of Gal-9, soluble TIM-3 (sTIM-3), and IL-18 were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results were compared with clinical features of ASD. Results: Serum Gal-9 levels in patients with ASD (median: 21.57 ng/ml, interquartile range IQR [11.41–39.72]) were significantly higher compared to those in patients with RA (7.58 ng/ml, IQR [5.57–10.20] p < 0.001) as well as those in HCs (4.74 ng/ml, [IQR; 4.27–5.63], p < 0.001). Similarly, serum sTIM-3 levels in patients with ASD were significantly higher than those in patients with RA and HCs. Serum levels of Gal-9 or sTIM-3 showed positive correlations with IL-18 levels (Gal-9; r = 0.90, p< 0.001, sTIM-3; r = 0.78, p< 0.001) in patients with ASD. Serum levels of Gal-9 or sTIM-3 correlated with serum ferritin (Gal-9; r = 0.77, p< 0.001, sTIM-3; r = 0.71, p< 0.001) and ASD disease activity score (Pouchot’s score, Gal-9; r = 0.66, p< 0.001, sTIM-3; r = 0.67, p< 0.001). Whereas there was no significant correlation between serum Gal-9 or sTIM-3 and CRP. ASD patients with chronic arthritis phenotype had a significantly higher Gal-9/ferritin and sTIM-3/ferritin ratio than those without this phenotype. After immunosuppressive treatment, Gal-9 and sTIM-3 levels showed a significant decline in parallel to the disease activity scores. Conclusions: Serum levels of the coinhibitory checkpoint molecules were elevated and correlated with disease activity in patients with ASD. These coinhibitory checkpoint molecule may be implicated in the autoinflammatory process seen in ASD.
Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in One-Carbon Metabolism Genes, Mediterranean Diet and the Risk of Pre- and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer
Authors: Cao Shang , Zhu Zheng , Zhou Jinyi , Li Wei , Dong Yunqiu , Qian Yun , Wei Pingmin , Wu Ming
Published: May 2020

Background: One-carbon metabolism pathway could interfere with the carcinogenesis of breast cancer (BC). Dietary pattern plays an important role in one-carbon metabolism linking the combination of dietary micronutrients. Methods: We assessed associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of one-carbon metabolism, adherence to Mediterranean dietary pattern (MDP) and BC risk from a case-control study (818 cases, 935 controls) among Chinese female population. The genotyping of 15 SNPs in eleven one-carbon metabolism-related genes (MTHFD1, MTRR, MAT1A, MAT2B, FOLR1, CBS, GLS, DNMT3B, UNG2, ADA, CDO1) were performed. Dietary measurements were assessed by a validated food-frequency questionnaire. Gene-diet interactions were analyzed. Results: No evidence demonstrated SNPs of one-carbon metabolism or their haplotypes were associated with BC risk. The associations between high adherence to the MDP and risk reduction of BC were influenced by the SNPs genotype, with the increasing number of variant allele in MTHFD1 (rs11627387), MTHFD1 (rs2281603), MTRR (rs16879334), MTRR (rs2287780), MAT2B (rs4869087), FOLR1 (rs10501409), UNG2 (rs231622) and ADA (rs244072), the protective effect against BC risk from high adherence to the MDP was gradually weakened and disappeared, while for MTHFD1 (rs8003567) and CDO1 (rs34869) genotypes, women who take homozygous allele were less affected by adherence to the MDP than to women who take heterozygotes allele. Significant gene-diet interactions were observed between MTHFD1 (rs8003567) polymorphism and MDP on BC risk. Conclusions: SNPs of one-carbon metabolism genes modify the effect of high adherence to MDP against BC risk in Chinese women, as potential effect modifiers. Genetic variants may influence the association between diet and BC risk.
The Survival Effect of Ovary Preservation in Early Stage Endometrial Cancer: A Single Institution Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Shin Wonkyo , Park Sang-Yoon , Kang Sokbom , Lim Myong Cheol , Seo Sang-Soo
Published: May 2020

Purpose: We investigated the effect of ovary preserving surgery in early International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FIGO) stage endometrial cancer patients.Methods: Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for 539 patients who were diagnosed with early stage endometrial cancer between Jan 2006 and Dec 2017. Patients were categorized into ovary preservation and ovary removal groups. Demographics, recurrence free survival (RFS), and five-year overall survival (OS) rate were compared, and the clinical factors affecting survival were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis.Results: The median follow-up period was 85 months (range, 6-142 months), and the median age was 52.7 years. The mean age was higher in the ovary removal group than in the ovary preservation group (54.4 vs 40.94 years; P < 0.001). The ovary preservation group showed an earlier FIGO stage than the ovary removal group. (P = 0.0264). There was a greater incidence of adjuvant chemotherapy administration in the removal group. There were no statistical differences in other baseline characteristics.When comparing the RFS and OS rates, there were no statistical differences between the preservation and removal groups. (recurrence free rate 98.5% vs 92.7%, p = 0.4360, and 5-year survival rate 98.6% vs 93.0%, p = 0.0892, respectively). Endometrioid histology (p=0.006) and post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy (p=0.0062) were related to OS, and adjuvant chemotherapy (p<0.001) and radiotherapy (p=0.005) were related to RFSConclusions: Ovary preservation in early stage endometrial cancer is worth considering, as it does not affect survival in early stage endometrial cancer patients
A novel comprehensive immune-related gene signature as a promising survival predictor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Fang Ruihua , Chen Lin , Liao Jing , Luo Jierong , Zhang Chenchen , Wei Fanqin , Zhang Zhiyu , Wen Weiping , Sun Wei
Published: May 2020

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the most frequent subtype of head and neck cancer, continues to have a poor prognosis with no improvement. Growing evidence has demonstrated that the immune system plays a crucial role in the development and progression of HNSCC. The goal of our study was to develop an immune-related signature for accurately predicting the survival of HNSCC patients. Methods: Gene expression profiles were established from a total of 546 HNSCC and normal tissues to establish a training set and 83 HNSCC tissues for a validation set. Differentially expressed prognostic immune genes were identified by univariate Cox regression analysis and a corresponding network of differentially expressed transcription factors (TFs) were identified using Cytoscape. The immune-related gene signature was established and validated by univariate Cox regression analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selector operation (LASSO), and multivariate Cox regression analyses. In addition, the prognostic value of the immune-related signature was analyzed by survival and Cox regression analysis. Finally, the correlation between the immune-related signature and the immune microenvironment was established.Results: In this study, the TF-mediated network revealed that Foxp3 plays a central role in the regulatory mechanism of most immune genes. A prognostic signature based on 10 immune-related genes, which divided patients into high and low risk groups, was developed and successfully validated using two independent databases. Our prognostic signature was significantly related to worse survival and predicted prognosis in patients with different clinicopathological factors. A nomogram including clinical characteristics was also constructed for accurate prediction. Furthermore, it was determined that our prognostic signature may act as an independent factor for predicting the survival of HNSCC patients. ROC analysis also revealed that our signature had superior predictive value compared with TNM stage. As for the immune microenvironment, our signature showed a positive correlation with activated mast cells and M0 macrophages, a negative correlation with Tregs, and immune checkpoint molecules PD-1 and CLTA-4. Conclusions: Our study established an immune-related gene signature, which not only provides a promising biomarker for survival prediction, but may be evaluated as an indicator for personalized immunotherapy in patients with HNSCC.
Sex-dependent dysregulation of human neutrophils responses​ by bisphenol A
Authors: Ratajczak-Wrona Wioletta , Garley Marzena , Rusak Malgorzata , Nowak Karolina , Czerniecki Jan , Wolosewicz Katarzyna , Dabrowska Milena , Wolczynski Slawomir , Radziwon Piotr , Jablonska Ewa
Published: May 2020

Background: The study objective was to assess the impact of a xenoestrogen—bisphenol A (BPA) (at the environmental concentration and 100-fold increased dose)—on selected functions of neutrophils, as well as to compare the effect of this compound and 17-β-estradiol (E2) (at the physiological concentration) on the studied functions of these cells in women and men.Methods and Results: Analysis of the results obtained for both sexes demonstrated a reduction in the chemotactic potential of neutrophils after exposure to BPA. In the presence of BPA, the phagocytic activity, as measured via the SCORE index, was found to be elevated in the neutrophils from women and reduced in those isolated for men. Exposure to BPA resulted in an increased percentage of neutrophils expressing CD14 and CD284 (TLR4), as well as an increased percentage of NET-forming cells, in the case of both sexes. In addition, a reduced capacity to release NETs was observed in cells that were preincubated with xenoestrogen and then stimulated with LPS. The stimulating role of BPA and 17-β-estradiol in the activation of NADPH oxidase, evaluated using NBT stimulation test, was evident only in the neutrophils from women. No influence of E2 could be observed on the expression of CD14 and CD284 by neutrophils, their chemotactic potential and phagocytic activity, and the amount of NETs for both sexes. The study further showed that BPA intensified the NO production and iNOS expression in the neutrophils from both sexes. In addition, an increase in expression was found for all the tested proteins of the PI3K/AKT pathway for men.Conclusions: The conducted study demonstrated that BPA influenced the functions of neutrophils associated with locomotion and pathogen elimination, which may disturb the response of these cells in both women and men. Furthermore, neutrophils isolated from women were found to be more susceptible to the effect of BPA in terms of oxygen-dependent killing, compared to those obtained from men. The variable results of the tests conducted in the presence of BPA indicated the stronger effect of xenoestrogen on human neutrophils compared to that of 17-β-estradiol.
Association Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome and Outcomes in Patients with Myocardial Infarction in the Absence of Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: He Chaojie , Cao Linfeng , Zhu Chunyan , Zhu Yujuan , Wang Shijun , Zhai Changlin , Hu Hui-lin
Published: May 2020

Background: Myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (MINOCA) occurs in 5% to 10% of all patients with acute myocardial infarction. Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is linked to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but the relationship of OSAHS and outcomes in patients with MINOCA remains unknown. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the association between OSAHS and clinical outcomes in patients with MINOCA.Methods and Results: Between January 2015 and December 2016, we carried out a prospective and consecutive cohort study of 583 patients with MINOCA and followed them up for three years. An apnea-hypopnea index of ≥15 events per hour recorded by polysomnography was defined as the diagnostic criterion for OSAHS. The primary end point was all-cause mortality, and the second end point was major adverse cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events (MACCE), a composite of cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, heart failure, cardiovascular-related rehospitalization, and stroke. All-cause mortality happened in 69 patients and MACCE occurred in 113 patients during the three-year follow-up. Kaplan–Meier survival curves indicated the significant relationship of OSAHS with all-cause mortality (log-rank P = 0.012) and MACCE (log-rank P = 0.002). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated OSAHS as an independent predictor of all-cause mortality and MACCE (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.714; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.203–2.168; P = 0.013; and adjusted hazard ratio: 1.787; 95% CI: 1.249–2.236; P = 0.004; respectively), independent of age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors and discharge medications.Conclusions: OSAHS is independently associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality and MACCE in patients with MINOCA. Intervention and treatment should be considered to alleviate OSAHS-associated risk.
Clinical characteristics of imported and second-generation COVID-19 cases outside Wuhan, China: A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Shi Puyu , Ren Guoxia , Yang Jun , Li Zhiqiang , Deng Shujiao , Li Miao , Wang Shasha , Xu Xiaofeng , Chen Fuping , Li Yuanjun , Li Chunyan , Yang Xiaohua , Xie Zhaofeng , Wu Zhengxia , Mingwei Chen
Published: May 2020

Background: The mortality of COVID-19 differs between countries and regions. By now, reports on COVID-19 are largely focused on first-generation cases. This study aimed to clarify the clinical characteristics of imported and second-generation cases. Methods : This retrospective, multicenter cohort study included 134 confirmed COVID-19 cases from 9 cities outside Wuhan. Epidemiological, clinical and outcome data were extracted from medical records and were compared between severe and non-severe cases. We further profiled the dynamic laboratory findings of some patients. Results : 34.3% of the 134 patients were severe cases, and 11.2% had complications. As of March 7, 2020, 91.8% patients were discharged and one patient (0.7%) died. Age, lymphocyte count, C-reactive protein, erythrocytes edimentation rate, direct bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase, hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase showed difference between severe and no-severe cases (all P<0.05). Baseline lymphocyte count was higher in the survived patients than in the non-survivor case, and it increased as the condition improved, but declined sharply when death occurred. The interleukin-6 level displayed a downtrend in survivors, but rose very high in the death case. Pulmonary fibrosis was found on later chest CT images in 51.5% of the pneumonia cases. Conclusion : Imported and second-generation cases outside Wuhan had a better prognosis than initial cases in Wuhan. Lymphocyte count and IL-6 level could be used for evaluating prognosis. Pulmonary fibrosis as the sequelae of COVID-19 should be taken into account.
Cross cultural “behavioural diagnosis” examining the uptake of the MIND diet, using the COM-B model to inform an intervention.
Authors: Timlin Deirdre , Giannantoni Barbara , McCormack Jacqueline , Polito Angela Polito , Ciarapica Donatella Ciarapica , Azzini Elena Azzini , Giles Melanie , Simpson Ellen Elizabeth Anne
Published: May 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to develop a “behavioural diagnosis” of factors influencing the uptake of the MIND diet in 40-55-year olds according to the COM-B model, in order to reduce the risk of cognitive decline in later life. Comparing a Mediterranean (Italy) and non-Mediterranean (Northern Ireland) country to inform an intervention. This study also sought to identify intervention functions and behaviour change techniques (BCTs) that are likely to be effective in changing MIND diet behaviour. Methods: This was a qualitative study that was used to elicit beliefs surrounding Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour (COM-B) with adhering to a diet associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline, the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND diet). This study further elaborated the COM-B components into the 14 domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to further understand behaviour. Twenty-five Northern Irish (NI) and Italian participants were recruited onto the study, to take part in either a focus group or an interview. Participants were both male and female aged between 40-55 years. Results: Thematic analysis revealed that the main barriers to the uptake of the MIND diet were; time, work environment (opportunity), taste preference and convenience (motivation). Culture (motivation), seasonal foods and lack of family support (opportunity) to be a barrier to the Italian sample only. The main facilitators reported were; improved health, memory, planning and organisation (motivation) and access to good quality food (opportunity). Cooking skills, knowledge (capability) and heathy work lunch (opportunity) being a facilitator to the Italian sample only. Five intervention functions and fifteen BCTs were identified for possible inclusion in intervention development. Conclusions: The “behavioural diagnosis” provides comparisons and valuable insight into the personal, social and environmental factors that participants report as barriers and facilitators to the uptake of the MIND diet in the two samples. More barriers to healthy dietary change were found than facilitators. There is a need for interventions that increase capability, opportunity and motivation to aid behaviour change. The “behavioural diagnosis” from this study will be used to design a behaviour change intervention using the subsequent steps from the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW).
Report on the new coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic in Italy
Authors: Donida Bianca Maria
Published: May 2020

Background Sars-CoV-2 is a coronavirus associated with human severe acute respiratory disease named Covid-19, first reported in China on December 2019. World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a pandemic on March 20, 2020. This report aims to outline the Italian outbreak characteristics. Italy, as one of first most affected area outside Asian continent, could give experiences to the other countries.Methods Data on positive cases and Covid-19 patients made available by Italian Health Authorities were reanalyzed and described. Results Up to April 18, 2020 Italy recorded 175,925 Sars-CoV-2 positive cases (10.68% among health care professionals) and 23,227 Covid-19 deaths. Covid-19 patients median age was 62 years. Male/female ratio was 1.00. Median time between symptoms and diagnosis was 6 days. Between hospitalized patients, the 10% needed intensive care. Median age at death was 80 years, with differences between sexes. Apparent lethality rate was 13.2%. At least one concomitant medical condition was present in 96.4% of patients who died. Discussion The number of Italian positive cases could be higher and the Italian lethality rate could be lower. The presence of asymptomatic people, known to be a vehicle for Covid-19 also for serious cases, could made slower the decrease of infection and distance the end of the novel coronavirus epidemic.
Clinical course and characteristics of patients with 2019 novel coronavirus disease in Wuhan, China: a single-centered, retrospective, observational study
Authors: LIU YANFANG , LIU LINA , WANG YE , DU XINYANG , MA HONG , YAO JING
Published: May 2020

BackgroundCOVID-19 associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection is of outbreak worldwide. This project aimed to provide clinical features, treatment advice and risk factors of patients diagnosed with COVID-19.MethodsIn this study, we analyzed 109 patients with confirmed COVID-19. We compared the relevant data of patients over 60 years old and under 60 years old, analyzed the data of patients with chronic diseases, and clarified the importance of the combination of laboratory examination and CT diagnosis.ResultsMost of patients 59(54.1%) had no fever. 100(91.7%) of patients required supplemental O2, and their SpO2 values reached normal after oxygen therapy. 72 (66.1%) patients were over 60 years old, and they were more likely to develop respiratory symptoms. Among all patients, only 14 (12.8%) patients were positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody, SARS-COV-2 RT-PCR assay and CT diagnosis.Conclusion(1) O2 supplement therapy plays an important role in the treatment of COVID-19 patients.(2) People over 60 years old or(and) having chronic diseases are risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection.(3) Most patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 have no fever symptoms.(4) We recommend that CT positive results be included in the confirmed diagnosis criteria, which is important for the diagnosis of COVID-19.
The Combined Antibacterial Effects of Sodium New Houttuyfonate and Berberine Chloride against Growing and Persistent Methicillin-Resistant and Vancomycin-Intermediate Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Li Xue , Wang Penghe , Hu Xinxin , Zhang Youwen , Lu Xi , Li Congran , Nie Tongying , Li Guoqing , Wang Xiukun , Pang Jing , Lu Yun , Yang Xinyi , You Xuefu
Published: May 2020

Background: Infections caused by drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, especially vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA), leave clinicians with limited therapeutic options for treatment. Persister cells is a leading cause of recalcitrant infection and antibiotic treatment failure, and there is no drug in clinical use that specifically targets persister cells currently. Here, we report a promising combination therapy of sodium new houttuyfonate (SNH) and berberine chloride (BBR) which is able to eradicate both growing and persistent drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.Results: The susceptibility test showed SNH exhibited anti-MRSA activity with MIC90 at 64 μg/mL, while BBR showed weak anti-MRSA activity with MIC90 at 512 μg/mL. MICs of BBR in combination with 1/2 MIC SNH decreased by 4 to 64 folds compared with MICs of BBR alone. The results of time-killing assays revealed that the combined use of sub-MIC SNH and BBR offered an in vitro synergistic action against growing MRSA (including pathogenic MRSA) and VISA strains. More importantly, the combination of SNH and BBR was able to eradicate VISA Mu50 and pathogenic MRSA persister cells. The synergistic effect is likely related to the interruption of the cell membrane caused by SNH, which is confirmed by scanning electron microscope and membrane potential and permeability analysis.Conclusions: Our study provide a promising clinical curative strategy for combating drug-resistant S. aureus infections, especially for recalcitrant infections caused by persister cells.
Evaluation of 3D Heads up ophthalmic surgery from the perspective of surgeons and postgraduate trainees
Authors: Cheng Teck Chee , Yahya Maliha Farah Nurhazirah , Naffi Ainal Adlin Mohd , Othman Othmaliza , Tang Seng Fai , Yong Meng Hsien , Rahim Wan Haslina Wan Abdul , Mustapha Mushawiahti , Hamzah Jemaima Che , Md Norshamsiah , Bastion Mae-Lynn Catherine
Published: May 2020

Background The purpose of this study is to evaluate the satisfaction of surgeons and postgraduate trainees on 3D heads up ophthalmic surgery compared to traditional microscopic surgery in terms of working and educational aspect.Methods This was a validated questionnaire-based study. This study was conducted at a tertiary referral and postgraduate teaching hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia over a one-month period during which the Ngenuity viewing system was demonstrated in the Ophthalmology operating theatre. All surgeons and trainees exposed to the viewing system were recruited for the study which involved answering an online questionnaire comprising the components of visualization, physical, ease of use, teaching and learning components and a question on satisfaction. This questionnaire is designed to evaluate the perception of the students and surgeons regarding learning-teaching methodology and benefits gained by them comparing between 3D heads up system and traditional microscopic surgery.Results All seven surgeons and 33 postgraduate students responded to the survey. A total of 32 cases were operated with the 3D system, which consisted of phacoemulsification, pterygium surgery, glaucoma procedures, cornea and vitreoretinal operations. There was no significant difference reported by the surgeons in all specific components (p>0.05, paired t-test). Postgraduate trainees reported better experience with 3D heads up surgery compared to traditional microscopic operation in terms of the illumination (p=0.008) and manoeuvrability (p= 0.01), physical factors such as glare p=0.037), eye strain (p=0.008), neck and upper back pain (p=0.000), lower back pain (p=0.019) and for all subcomponents of teaching and learning. Both surgeons and postgraduate trainees were more satisfied with 3D heads up system in general than traditional microscopic surgery (p=0.047 and p=0.009 respectively).Conclusions 3D heads up surgery and viewing is preferred to traditional microscopic surgery viewing particularly by postgraduate trainees. The overall satisfaction with this viewing system is also higher among surgeons and trainees than traditional microscope viewing.Trial Registration: Reference number: UKM PPI/111/8/JEP-2019-724 (UKM Research Ethics Committee) Date: 6th November 2019
Medical education too: sexual harassment within the educational context of medicine – insights from undergraduates
Authors: Schoenefeld Eva , Marschall Bernhard , Paul Berit , Ahrens Helmut , Sensmeier Janina , Coles Jan , Pfleiderer Bettina
Published: May 2020

Background: Assessment of the presence and characteristics of sexual harassment in academic medicine is of global and increasing issue. Only limited data on the German situation are available so far.Methods: To assess the extent of sexual harassment and to identify persons involved an online survey was conducted in the student population of the medical school of Münster, Germany. A questionnaire was sent digitally via lock box after translation into German. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistical methods such as categorical variables. Baseline characteristics, e.g. answers by male or female medical students, were correlated with their individual experiences and perpetrator groups by means of univariate analysis. The anonymous online questionnaire was sent to all medical undergraduates at Münster Medical School between 1st October and the 30th November 2018.Results: A total of 2162 medical students were asked to participate: 623 (28.8%) completed the survey. Sexual harassment is a significant issue among medical students at Münster. About 87.6% of those being victim of some form of verbal and /or physical assault were female; the majority by patients, followed by superiors and less frequently by colleagues. All students who had experiences with forced physical contact were females (100%). 58.9% of undergraduates were exposed to sexually harassing behaviour. 41.3% of those suffered from verbal and 31.8% from physical assaults, respectively. 8.5% of them faced forced physical contact. Perpetrators were mostly male superiors and male patients.Conclusions: Sexual harassment within medical educational field and working place exist in a huge German medical school and interventions are actually established by an independent voluntary task force to increase communication, reflection and instill prevention measure.
ACE2 and TMPRSS2 variation in savanna monkeys (Chlorocebus spp.): Potential risk for zoonotic/anthroponotic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and a potential model for functional studies
Authors: Schmitt Christopher A. , Bergey Christina M. , Jasinska Anna J. , Ramensky Vasily , Burt Felicity , Svardal Hannes , Jorgensen Matthew J. , Freimer Nelson B. , Grobler J. Paul , Turner Trudy R.
Published: May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has devastated health infrastructure around the world. Both ACE2 (an entry receptor) and TMPRSS2 (used by the virus for spike protein priming) are key proteins to SARS-CoV-2 cell entry, enabling progression to COVID-19 in humans. Comparative genomic research into critical ACE2 binding sites, associated with the spike receptor binding domain, has suggested that Old World primates may also be susceptible to disease from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Savanna monkeys (Chlorocebus spp.) are a widespread non-human primate with well-established potential as a bi-directional zoonotic/anthroponotic agent due to high levels of human interaction throughout their range in sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean. To characterize potential functional variation in savanna monkey ACE2 and TMPRSS2, we inspected recently published genomic data from 245 savanna monkeys, including 163 wild monkeys from Africa and the Caribbean and 82 captive monkeys from the Vervet Research Colony (VRC). We found several missense variants. One missense variant in ACE2 (X:14,077,550; Asp30Gly), common in Ch. sabaeus, causes a change in amino acid residue that has been inferred to reduce binding efficiency of SARS-CoV-2, suggesting potentially reduced susceptibility. The remaining populations appear as susceptible as humans, based on these criteria for receptor usage. All missense variants observed in wild Ch. sabaeus populations are also present in the VRC, along with two splice acceptor variants (at X:14,065,076) not observed in the wild sample that are potentially disruptive to ACE2 function. The presence of these variants in the VRC suggests a promising model for SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine and therapy development. In keeping with a One Health approach, characterizing actual susceptibility and potential for bi-directional zoonotic/anthroponotic transfer in savanna monkey populations may be an important consideration for controlling COVID-19 epidemics in communities with frequent human/non-human primate interactions that, in many cases, may have limited health infrastructure.
OS IMPACTOS JURÍDICOS FRENTE AO ADVENTO DO BITCOIN
Authors: MATHEUS Arthur Henrique Dos Reis
Published: May 2020

A presente pesquisa visa principalmente o destaque dos impactos pelas inovações tecnológicas no campo jurídico influenciado pelo advento da criptomoeda (principalmente a Bitcoin). Para tanto, a pesquisa debruça sobre a análise da regulamentação existente no arcabouço jurídico nacional, a permissividade constitucional da atuação (iminente e existente) das criptomoedas na economia brasileira e, por fim, promove a discussão de quais caminhos a sociedade mundial deve se guiar em decorrência deste ativo financeiro que já impacta o mercado global.
A APLICAÇÃO DA TEORIA DO DIREITO PENAL DO INIMIGO POR GOVERNANTES POLÍTICOS ATUAIS: MEDIDAS NORTE-AMERICANAS E SUAS INFLUÊNCIAS NO CENÁRIO BRASILEIRO
Authors: ZANATTA Ana Rita Patrezi , TOFFANO Marcelo
Published: May 2020

A presente pesquisa científica, A aplicação da teoria do Direito Penal do Inimigo por governantes políticos atuais: medidas norte-americanas e suas influências no cenário brasileiro, está situada na área penal do direito e diz respeito às normas legais norte-americanas criadas de acordo com a teoria desenvolvida por Jakobs e de acordo com o conceito de inimigo formulado por Carl Schmitt. O objeto de estudo em questão é demonstrar como essas políticas internacionais influenciam diretamente em território nacional e as consequências possíveis, através de direito comparado e, também, se a utilização de um direito muito mais combativo do que garantidor gera situações de harmonia social. O objetivo do trabalho é proteger o cidadão brasileiro perante o Estado.
O AMICUS CURIAE NO SUPREMO TRIBUNAL FEDERAL: UMA ANÁLISE SOBRE SEU POTENCIAL DEMOCRÁTICO
Authors: MERLO Gabriela , RIBEIRO José Moisés
Published: May 2020

O presente trabalho de iniciação científica possui o objetivo de promover a análise da figura do “amicus curiae” no Supremo Tribunal Federal e como esta pode contribuir de forma a tornar as decisões mais democráticas, principalmente no que se refere às ações de controle concentrado de constitucionalidade. Neste sentido, a metodologia utilizada se deu na forma qualitativa, sendo utilizados os métodos de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Dessa forma, é cabível o entendimento no sentido de que o “amicus curiae” possui um caráter democrático o qual se encontra presente na própria definição da figura, sendo potencializado não apenas ao auxiliar o magistrado a proferir uma decisão, como também ao contribuir trazendo novos argumentos referentes ao caso e que possam auxiliar na elucidação do problema. No entanto, alguns obstáculos que a figura enfrenta no ordenamento brasileiro, são o desconhecimento de muitos indivíduos quanto ao seu uso, bem como a necessidade de possuir advogado caso deseje postular voluntariamente como “amicus curiae”.  Além disso, deve-se buscar trazer argumentos inovadores, tendo em vista que a mera repetição de argumentos já proferidos pelas partes somente protrai o processo.
A MATERIALIDADE DO DIREITO INDÍGENA NO BRASIL: REFLEXOS DO INTEGRACIONISMO E DO MULTICULTURALISMO NAS SOCIEDADES TRIBAIS
Authors: FREITAS Afonso Hermogenes Cintra de , TEIXEIRA Ana Tereza Jacintho
Published: May 2020

Com o advento da globalização, o Direito, como um todo, viu-se necessitado e se adaptar a esse novo cenário. Entretanto, o caráter unificador do fenômeno trouxe influências – positivas e negativas – em cada organismo que compõe a sociedade. Por consequências históricas, os indígenas se encontram à margem da tutela jurisdicional, e a antinomia existente entre o Estatuto do Índio (1973) e a Constituição Federal (1988), atualmente, provoca danos irreparáveis às comunidades tribais. O presente trabalho se propõe a analisar os efeitos da legislação, positivada de forma exclusiva pela sociedade não-indígena, naquela outra. Como método, a monografia utiliza de aspectos históricos e antropológicos para auxiliar na compreensão da figura indígena (arquetípica e real) e se desenvolve até as implicações máximas do multiculturalismo na atualidade. Os resultados, de certa forma, se apresentaram como o esperado. A questão latente reside no pluriculturalismo, que apesar de majoritariamente prejudicial às sociedades não integradas no movimento da globalização, propicia novas formas de interação entre esses grupos. É preciso, portanto, que haja um desenvolvimento no âmbito legislativo, especialmente no que concerne à política multicultural, para que ocorra a horizontalidade de tratamento entre as sociedades indígena e não-indígena brasileiras.
O LIMITE DO PRINCÍPIO NEMO TENETUR SE DETEGERE E SUA APLICABILIDADE
Authors: SILVA Gabriela Fileto da
Published: May 2020

A finalidade do presente trabalho é apresentar os direitos garantidos pelo princípio nemo tenteur se detegere, ressaltando o direito do réu de ficar em silêncio e o direito de faltar com a verdade durante o interrogatório.  Ao decorrer do estudo nota-se que o acusado tem o direito de ficar em silêncio em algumas situações mas em outras ele precisa responder, sendo assim será apresentado os direitos e deveres em relação a essa garantia. O segmento questionável está presente no direito de mentir, uma garantia que vai contra a moral e a ética, contudo é protegido pelo princípio em questão. Será tratado sobre a origem do direito de mentir, se ele surgiu com o princípio nemo tenetur se detegere ou se já estava presente no processo penal. Desta forma, constata-se que o princípio estudado tem o objetivo de proteger o acusado contra excessos cometidos pelo Estado, e garante ao acusado direitos e garantias fundamentais durante o processo penal, assegurando o direito a não autoincriminação e proporcionando um processo justo e equitativo.
ANÁLISE DA ATUAÇÃO DO ESTADO NA FISCALIZAÇÃO DAS BARRAGENS DE MINERAÇÃO: O CASO SAMARCO
Authors: SILVA Isabella Marques
Published: May 2020

O objetivo geral do presente trabalho é investigar em que consiste o dever de fiscalização do Estado quanto às barragens de mineração, tratando especificamente da barragem do Fundão, da mineradora Samarco. Este trabalho monográfico propõe-se a analisar a previsão legal a respeito do assunto e verificar se houve qualquer falha ou omissão por parte dos órgãos fiscalizadores. Faz-se uma análise sobre a origem da legislação ambiental e todo o seu desenvolvimento até os dias atuais, bem como um estudo profundo da legislação aplicável à segurança de barragens, para depois passar para a questão da barragem do Fundão e qual foi a real atuação dos órgãos responsáveis pela fiscalização dessas estruturas.
BITCOIN: OS DESAFIOS JURÍDICOS DA MOEDA VIRTUAL
Authors: GRECCA Ana Carolina Pires , GARCIA Daiene Kelly
Published: May 2020

O presente artigo, após uma breve análise da história da moeda e dos aspectos da moeda virtual, tem como foco os desafios jurídicos da bitcoin, elucidando a atual conjuntura das inovações tecnológicas e a dificuldade do Direito em acompanhá-las para, posteriormente, analisar possíveis definições jurídicas da moeda virtual e a possiblidade de regulação da mesma. É importante ressaltar que o objetivo desta pesquisa não é sanar todas as incógnitas jurídicas sobre a bitcoin, e sim estudá-las e analisar como poderia se dar sua aplicabilidade no Direito Brasileiro, esperando contribuir para um assunto relevante ainda pouco estudado pela comunidade jurídica.
Applications of Raman Spectroscopy in Metamorphic Petrology and Tectonics
Authors: Korsakov Andrey V. , Kohn Matthew J. , Perraki Maria
Published: May 2020

Raman spectroscopy is widely applied in metamorphic petrology and offers many opportunities for geological and tectonic research. Minimal sample preparation preserves sample integrity and microtextural information, while use with confocal microscopes allows spatial resolution down to the micrometer level. Raman spectroscopy clearly distinguishes mineral polymorphs, providing crucial constraints on metamorphic conditions, particularly ultrahigh-pressure conditions. Raman spectroscopy can also be used to monitor the structure of carbonaceous material in metamorphic rocks. Changes in structure are temperature-sensitive, so Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous material is widely used for thermometry. Raman spectroscopy can also detect and quantify strain in micro-inclusions, offering new barometers that can be applied to understand metamorphic and tectonic processes without any assumptions about chemical equilibrium.
Microscale Chemistry: Raman Analysis of Fluid and Melt Inclusions
Authors: Bodnar Robert J. , Frezzotti Maria Luce
Published: May 2020

Raman spectroscopy is a commonly applied nondestructive analytical technique for characterizing fluid and melt inclusions. The exceptional spatial resolution (~1 µm) and excellent spectral resolution (≤1 cm−1) permits the characterization of micrometer-scale phases and allows quantitative analyses based on Raman spectral features. Data provided by Raman analysis of fluid and melt inclusions has significantly advanced our understanding of complex geologic processes, including preeruptive volatile contents of magmas, the nature of fluids in the deep crust and upper mantle, the generation and evolution of methane-bearing fluids in unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs. Anticipated future advances include the development of Raman mass spectroscopy and the use of Raman to monitor reaction progress in synthetic and natural fluid inclusion microreactors.
Getting ready for online learning
Authors: Pallitt Nicola
Published: May 2020

Online learning can be a fun and creative way to learn, but it can also be daunting, and many students may experience barriers. For example, you might find that receiving information on a webpage is overwhelming, you might be worried you won’t be able to make sense of it, and you might experience difficulties connecting to the internet.

This short guide provides some useful tips and recommendations for how to shift to online learning more easily.
Tips for containing mobile data costs
Authors: Pallitt Nicola
Published: May 2020

This is a guide to assist in containing data mobile costs
Tips for online learning_isiXhosa
Authors: Pallitt Nicola
Published: May 2020

Ukufunda kwizixhobo zobuchwepheshe yindlela ezisa amava amatsha kwisininzi sethu. Kuza kunyanzeleka ukuba sivelele indlela esifunda ngayo ngohlobo olwahlukileyo. Singanamathandabuzo ngezinto ezilindelekileyo nokuba siza kuqhuba njani. Ngequbuliso sinexesha lingacwangciswanga ngokucacileyo kwaye kungenzeka singaqiniseki ukuba siza kuqhubeka njani ngezifundo zethu. Sicebisa ukuba ulandele inkqubo yexesha lezifundo zakho elicwangcisiweyo ukufumana nokufunda izifundo zakho, imisebenzi ekufuneka yenziwe nekufuneka ingenisiwe efumaneka kwikhasi le​RUconnected ​ kwisifundo ngasinye kumaxesha amiselweyo.
Stress analysis of plate with opposite semicircular notches and adhesively bonded piezoelectric actuators
Authors: Abuzaid Ahmed , Hrairi Meftah , Kabrein Hashim
Published: May 2020

Stress control of structures by means of active smart material has evolved in recent years. The structure’s stress control can typically be considered as strengthening that effects the structure’s load-carrying capability. The stress-concentration cause by holes and notches produces a large variation and significant increase in stress. The control of the stress concentration and its distributions in the notched area is valuable for many practical and design applications. This study investigates the impacts of the piezoelectric actuators on control of the stress concentration factor (SCF) for an aluminum plate with opposite semicircular notches. Finite-element method (FEM) is used to access the SCFs due to external static loading. The stress control efficiency is assessed by the SCFs as an effectiveness criterion. The results indicate that SCFs reduces linearly with active piezoelectric actuator.
Numerical analysis of the stand-off distance on anti-blast ability of the cylindrical shell structure with preformed holes
Authors: Ji Chong , Sun Yuxiang , Gao Fuyin , Huang Xiaoliang , Zhao Changxiao
Published: May 2020

Numerical analysis is conducted on the damage effect of the cylindrical shell under the combined action of fragments and shock waves. Preformed holes are used to simulate the failure effect of fragments. Three different damaged modes are obtained in the numerical simulation, namely, local depression deformation, coupling of local depression deformation and global deformation, coupling of global deformation and local penetration. When the shell is subjected to large explosive energy, the cylindrical shells with preformed holes are more likely to produce fragments than those without preformed holes; when the shell is subjected to a small explosive energy, the cylindrical shell with preformed holes has smaller sunken deformation than that without preformed holes.
3D printed structured porous treatments for flow control with applications for noise and vibration control
Authors: Bathla Pranjal , Kennedy John
Published: May 2020

The use of porous coatings is one of the passive flow control methods used to reduce turbulence and noise and vibrations generated due to fluid flow. A number of real-world applications rely on single or tandem cylinder systems like aircraft landing gears, chimneys, bridge pillars, etc. Using porous coatings for flow stabilization acts as a light-weight, cost-effective and customizable solution. The design and performance of a porous coating depend on multiple control parameters like lattice size, strut thickness, lattice structure, etc. This study aimed to investigate the suitability of MSLA 3D printers (Anycubic Photon and Prusa SL1) to manufacture porous coatings and to design and optimize porous lattices for flow control behind a cylinder. The Reynolds number used was 60000 and the flow measurements were taken using a hotwire probe. Different sets of experiments were conducted for single and tandem cylinder with varying control parameters to achieve the optimal lattice designs. The results show that the performance primarily depended on porosity, coating thickness, and coating shape. A high porosity thick coating gave a 70-75 % reduction in turbulence rate and also reduced the mean wake velocity. It was also seen that coating thickness is not linearly proportional to turbulence reduction and an optimal thickness exists for best performance.
The research of the influence of viscous interaction between wagon and container on the dynamic load during transportation by rail ferry
Authors: Lovska Alyona , Fomin Oleksij , Píštěk Václav , Kučera Pavel
Published: May 2020

This paper proposes the improved scheme of interaction of containers with the load-bearing structure of the wagon when transporting by rail ferry. In order to ensure the stability of the container balance in the event of fluctuations in the railway ferry, it is proposed to attach special structures to the support structure of the wagons. To reduce the dynamic loading of containers, a material with damping properties is installed on the internal surfaces of the superstructures. Mathematical modelling was performed to substantiate the proposed technical solution. It was found that the total amount of acceleration that acts on the container is 3.47 m/s2 (0.35 g), and on the load-bearing structure of the wagon 2.47 m/s2 (0.25 g), which is 38 % and 23 % less, respectively, for the acceleration values in the typical scheme of their interaction. The conducted research will contribute to improving the efficiency of combined transport through the international transport corridors.
Methods to enhance the automation of operational modal analysis
Authors: Wiemann Marcel , Bonekemper Lukas , Kraemer Peter
Published: May 2020

The vibration-based damage detection and the monitoring of modal data are currently based on different Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) approaches. For the continuous monitoring of modal quantities, different techniques for automated feature extraction are known. Especially in recent years several research groups and companies have been working on the automatic interpretation of stability plots. Nevertheless, many questions regarding data pre-processing for OMA in time or frequency domain are still unanswered. The present paper deals with issues regarding effective pre-processing methods for OMA based on Covariance-Stochastic Subspace Identification. In this context, the orthogonality of matrices after model order reduction, etc. are referred. This includes, for example, a comparison between the classical calculation of the reduced-order matrices and a procedure that preserves the orthogonality of these matrices. A method known from the signal denoising and image processing is also successful used to extract and select the modes. The mode extraction method is validated with an innovative three-dimensional stability plot. This paper does not claim to solve all tasks of an automated OMA, but it contributes the calculation of clean, easy to interpret, stability plots, which should facilitate the automatic evaluation in the future. The effectiveness of the algorithms is demonstrated by means of simulated (3DOF-StateSpace) and measured data of a laboratory structure described in [1]. Afterwards the results and the future works on the topic are discussed.