bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downregulation of long non-coding RNA SNHG7 protects against inflammation and apoptosis in Parkinson's disease model by targeting miR-425-5p/TRAF5/NF-κB axis
Authors: Yu Shan , Liu Xueshibojie , Yu Duo , E Changyong , Yang Jinghui
Published: May 2020

Background

Accumulated evidence has established that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is involved in the progress of Parkinson's disease (PD). SNHG7, a novel lncRNA, has been found to play a key role in tumorigenesis. However, the SNHG7 expression and its functional effects on PD remain uncharted.
Methods

RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of SNHG7, miR-425-5p and inflammatory cytokines in the plasma of PD patients and the healthy controls. Rotenone (Rot) was adopted to construct PD models in SD rats and SH-SY5Y cells, respectively. Gain- and loss- of functions of SNHG7 or miR-425-5p were conducted. The expression levels of Caspase3, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), Iba1 in SD rat striatum was measured via immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Additionally, the expressions of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and oxidative stress factors (MDA, SOD, GSH-PX) in the brain tissues were examined using RT-PCR and ELISA. Moreover, the protein levels of TRAF5, I-κB, NF-κB, HO-1, Nrf2 were detected via Western blot. Bioinformatics was applied to predict the targeting relationship between SNHG7, miR-425-5p and TRAF5. Dual luciferase activity assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were carried out to verify their interactions.
Results

SNHG7 was found up-regulated in PD patients while miR-425-5p expression was down-regulated (compared to healthy donors). Meanwhile, SNHG7 level was positively correlated with the level of inflammatory cytokines in PD patients. Functional experiments confirmed that SNHG7 downregulation or miR-425-5p overexpression attenuated neuronal apoptosis in the Rot-mediated PD model, TH-positive cell loss and microglia activation by mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress. Mechanistically, SNHG7 served as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR-425-5p and promoted TRAF5 mediated inflammation and oxidative stress.
Conclusion

Inhibition of SNHG7 ameliorated neuronal apoptosis in PD through relieving miR-425-5p/TRAF5/NF-κB signaling pathway modulated inflammation and oxidative stress.
Experiences with Health Care and Health-Related Quality of Life of Patients with Hematological Malignancies in Mexico
Authors: Doubova Svetlana Vladislavovna , Terreros-Muñoz Eduardo , Delgado-Lòpez Nancy , Montaño-Figueroa Efreen Horacio , Infante-Castañeda Claudia , Cuevas Ricardo Perez
Published: May 2020

Introduction: In Mexico patients with hematologic malignancies (HMs) are characterized by high risk, advanced stages at diagnosis and a low cure rate; yet the information on their experiences with healthcare and health-related quality of life (HRQL) is scarce. We aimed to evaluate experiences with healthcare and HRQL of patients with HMs.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey in two oncology hospitals in Mexico City. The study included outpatient cancer patients aged ≥ 18 years with a diagnosis of leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. We used a patient-centered quality of cancer care questionnaire to assess experiences with care and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) to measure HRQL. We performed a multiple linear regression to evaluate the association between patient experiences and the QLQ-C30 summary score.Results: Of the 515 participating HM patients, 46.6% had lymphoma, 34% leukemia, and 19.4% multiple myeloma; 70.9% were at advanced stages or at high risk; 15.1% had anxiety and 12.8% had depression. Over one third (35.9%) received clear information, 28.5% timely care, 20.6% information for treatment decision-making, 23.7% care that addressed their biopsychological needs, and 31% respectful and coordinated care. The mean QLQ-C30 summary score was 71.9 points. Timely care, clarity of the information, and care that addresses biopsychological needs were associated with higher HRQL.Conclusions: Healthcare providers are encouraged to measure and address the experiences with healthcare of HM patients to improve the quality of patient-centered cancer care and increase the likelihood of better HRQL.
The clinical and prognostic significance of HER2 and Ki67 expression in 2062 Chinese patients with resectable gastric cancer: a retrospective study
Authors: Wang Wenfan , Chen Zhiqiang , Zhang Qinghua , You Yanjie , Ma Ailing , Wang Guanhua , Cao Juan , Zhao Dan , Zhang Xiaoxu , Zhang Qian , Wu Jing , Ruan Jigang , Yang Wenjun
Published: May 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the prognostic value of the expression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), Ki67, and their combination levels in the prognosis of Chinese patients with resectable gastric cancer (GC).
Methods

A total of 2062 Chinese GC patients were recruited with HER2 and Ki67 expression being evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Patients were divided into four groups according to HER2 and Ki67 expression. The distributions between HER2 and Ki67 expression levels and clinicopathological characteristics were compared using the Chi-square test. The relationship between HER2 and Ki67 expression level and overall survival were evaluated with the univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis.
Results

There was no statistical differences between the overall survival (OS) rate and the expression level of HER2 (P = 0.748) or Ki67 (P = 0.063), but there were significant relationships between the OS rates and the combining expression levels of HER2/Ki67 (P < 0.05). Further, Ki67, sex, T stage, N stage, TNM stage, and adjuvant chemotherapy were significant and independent risk factors for GC survival (P < 0.05).
Conclusions

Our study illustrated that Ki67, but not HER2 acted as an independent prognostic factor in Chinese resectable GC patients. The evaluation of the combining expression levels of HER2/Ki67 may be more useful to assess patient prognosis with resectable GC.
Asthma susceptible genes in children: A meta-analysis
Authors: Ruan Zhen , Shi Zhaoling , Zhang Guocheng , Kou Jiushe , Ding Hui
Published: May 2020

Background: During the last decade, a number of studies have evaluated the potential association between some genetic polymorphisms and childhood asthma risk, however, the results of published studies appeared conflicts. The aim of the present study was to investigate association between genetic polymorphisms and pediatric asthma. Methods: Relevant studies were searched in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), Wanfang and Weipu database. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to access the strength of the associations. Results: 45 case-control studies were finally included in this meta-analysis. Eighteen SNPs were identified. Ten polymorphisms were found to be associated with asthma risk: IL-13 +2044G/A, IL-4 -590C/T, ADAM33 F+1, ADAM33 T2, ADAM33 T1, ADAM33 ST+4, ORMDL3 rs7216389, VDR ApaⅠ, VDR FokⅠ, VDR BsmⅠ. After subgroup analysis, IL-13 +2044G/A, ADAM33 T2, ADAM33 T1, VDR ApaⅠ, VDR BsmⅠ polymorphisms were associated with increased risk of asthma among Asian populations. IL-4 -590C/T polymorphisms may be related to asthma risk in Chinese children.Conclusions: This meta-analysis found that IL-13 +2044G/A, IL-4 -590C/T, ADAM33 F+1, ADAM33 T2, ADAM33 T1, ADAM33 ST+4, ORMDL3 rs7216389, VDR ApaⅠ, VDR FokⅠ and VDR BsmⅠ polymorphisms might be risk factors for childhood asthma. Further study with large population and more ethnicities is needed to estimate the associations.
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficient individuals have circulating extracellular vesicles with profibrogenic cargo
Authors: Khodayari Nazli , Oshins Regina , Holliday Shannon , Clark Virginia , Xiao Qiang , Marek George , Mehrad Borna , Brantly Mark
Published: May 2020

Background: Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD)-mediated liver disease is a toxic “gain-of- function” inflammation in the liver associated with intracellular retention of mutant alpha-1 antitrypsin. The clinical presentation of the disease includes fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver failure. However, the pathogenic mechanism of AATD-mediated liver disease is not well understood. Here, we investigated the role of plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) in progression of AATD- mediated liver disease. Methods: EVs were isolated from plasma of AATD individuals with liver disease and healthy controls. Their cytokines and miRNA content were examined by multiplex assay and small RNA sequencing. The bioactivity of EVs was assessed by qPCR, western blot analysis and immunofluorescent experiments using human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) treated with EVs isolated from control or AATD plasma samples. Results: We have found that AATD individuals have a distinct population of EVs with pathological cytokine and miRNA contents. When HSCs were cultured with AATD plasma derived-EVs, the expression of genes related to the development of fibrosis were significantly amplified compared to those treated with healthy control plasma EVs.Conclusion: AATD individuals have a distinct population of EVs with abnormal cytokine and miRNA contents and the capacity to activate HSCs and mediate fibrosis. Better understanding of the components which cause liver inflammation and fibrogenesis, leading to further liver injury, has the potential to lead to the development of new treatments or preventive strategies to prevent AATD-mediated liver disease.
Investigation of availability, demand, targets, economic growth and development of RE 2017-2050: Case study in Indonesia
Authors: Erdiwansyah Erdiwansyah , Mahidin Mahidin , Husin H. , Khairil Khairil , Zaki M. , Jalaluddin Jalaluddin
Published: May 2020

The potential for (RE) in Indonesia is quite abundant and is predicted to replace conventional energy which continues to experience depletion and depletion in the next few years. However, until now the use of RE has only reached 2% of the existing potential of 441.7GW overall. The main overview of this work is to investigate the availability of RE that can be utilized for electricity generation in Indonesia. National energy demand and targets in the long run during the 2017-2050 period are also discussed. Besides, government policies in supporting RE development are also considered in this work. The results show that the potential for RE in Indonesia can be utilized and might replace conventional energy for decades. Utilization of RE for electricity generation can be achieved with a government policy that supports the investor as the executor of RE development. The selling price of electricity from the use of RE is cheaper than fossils so that people's economy is more affordable. Finally, the government's target for the utilization of RE as the main energy in Indonesia can be done by implementing several policies for the development of RE. Thus, greenhouse gas emissions and the use of petroleum fuels can reduced.
Desulphurization of dibenzothiophene by different bacteria: A case study on model compound
Authors: Kumar Aniruddha , Singh Asha Lata , Singh Prakash K
Published: May 2020

Bacterial strains are successfully employed to desulfurize dibenzothiophene which may be determined by chromatography, HPLC and GC-Mass spectrometry. Strains of Ralstonia sp ., Pseudoxanthomons sp. and Rhodococcus sp. were used in the present investigation. Only Rhodococcus sp. was able to convert dibenzothiophene (DBT) into 2-hydroxy biphenyl (2-HBP). Gibb’s assay blue colour indicates the conversion of DBT into 2-HBP and brown colour indicates complete consumption of DBT by bacteria. After two days of bacterial treatment, there was no further removal of DBT. Conversion of DBT into 2-HBP was monitored through HPLC for six days of entire experiment.
Metabolic Syndrome in obese children – clinical prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Jankowska Agnieszka , Brzeziński Michał , Romanowicz-Sołtyszewska Anna Anna , Sidorkiewicz Agnieszka Szlagatys -
Published: May 2020

Background: Prevalence of childhood obesity increases worldwide. Some of the obese children develop metabolic syndrome (MetS) , who of them - remains to be determined. The aim of this study was indicate predisposing factors for metabolic syndrome,, especially those which can be modified.Methods: The study comprised 591 obese children aged 10-12 years. Clinical examination, anthropometry, biometric impedance analysis, blood works (incl. OGGT and insulinemia) as well as dietary evaluation and physical activity were estimated. Results: The risk factors of MetS or feature of this are: male, parent’s especially father’s obesity, low body mass at birth as well as omitting breakfast or dinner.Conclusions: There are few risk factors of metabolic syndrome in obese subjects, also in obese children. Some of these predictors can me modified, especially those referring to lifestyle. Indicating and then influencing these factors can be one way to diminish metabolic syndrome development, such improving health and quality of life. Besides certain socioeconomic effects could be gain too.
The C-reactive protein to albumin ratio is a prognostic factor for survival after pancreatic cancer resection
Authors: Wijk Laura van , de Klein Guus W. , Kanters Matthijs A. , Patijn Gijs A. , Klaase Joost M.
Published: May 2020

Background Emerging evidence indicates that an elevated C-reactive protein-to-albumin (CRP/alb) ratio may be associated with a poor prognosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Further evidence showing that this ratio has significant prognostic value could contribute to current prediction models and clinical decision-making. Methods Data were analysed of consecutive patients who underwent curative pancreatic resection between 2013 and 2018 and were histologically diagnosed with PDAC. We investigated the relation between the preoperative CRP/alb ratio and overall survival. Results A total of 163 patients were analysed. Median overall survival was 18 months (IQR 9–36). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a higher CRP/alb ratio (HR 1.745, P = 0.004), a higher age (HR 1.062, P < 0.001), male sex (HR 1.977, P = 0.001), poor differentiation grade (HR 2.812, P < 0.001), and positive para-aortic lymph node(s) (HR 4.489, P < 0.001) were associated with a lower overall survival. Furthermore, a CRP/alb ratio ≥ 0.2 was associated with decreased overall survival (16 vs. 26 months, P = 0.003). Conclusion We demonstrated that an elevated CRP/alb ratio is an independent indicator of decreased overall survival after resection for PDAC. The preoperative CRP/alb ratio may be of additional value to the current prediction models.
Adaptive Immune Responses Mediated Age-related Plasmodium yoelii 17XL and 17XNL Infections in 4 and 8-week-old BALB/c Mice
Authors: Wang Qiu-bo , Du Yun-ting , Liu Fei , Sun Xiao-dan , Sun Xun , Chen Guang , Pang Wei , Cao Yaming
Published: May 2020

Backgroud: As the quest to eradicate malaria continues, it is important to clarify the opposite clinical outcomes between childhood and adulthood. The relationship between adaptive immune response and age-related malaria infection remains unknown.Methods: 4 and 8-week-old mice were used to mimic childhood and adulthood, respectively. Parasitemia and the survival rate were monitored. The proportion and function of Th1 and Th2 cells were detected by FACS. The levels of IFN-γ, IL-4, total IgG, IgG1, IgG2a and Plasmodium yoelii MSP-1-special IgG were measured by ELISA.Results: Our results found that infant mice were more susceptible to P. yoelii 17XNL infection, with lower survival rate and higher parasitemia. The adult group showed greater resistance to P. yoelii 17XL infection, with lower parasitemia. Compared with 4-week-old mice, the percentage of CD4 + T-bet + IFN-γ + Th1 cells as well as IFN-γ production were significantly increased on day 5 p.i. in the 8-week-old mice after P. yoelii 17XNL infection. The percentage of CD4 + GATA3 + IL-4 + Th2 cells and CD4 + CXCR5 + Tfh cells, and IL-4 production in the 8-week-old mice obviously increased on day 5 and day 10 after P. yoelii 17XNL infection. Notably, the levels of total IgG, IgG1, IgG2a and P. yoelii MSP-1-special IgG were also significantly increased in the 8-week-old mice. PD-1, a marker of exhaustion, was up-regulated on CD4 + or activated CD4 + T cells in the 8-week-old mice as compared to the 4-week-old group.Conclusions: Thus, we consider that enhanced cellular and humoral adaptive immunity might contribute to rapid clearance of malaria among adults, likely in a PD-1-dependent manner due to induction of CD4 + T cells exhaustion.
The Treatment of Microbubble Disease of 20th Century Cellulose Acetate Microfilm: Application of Ethyecellulose and Microrepair Method
Authors: Jia Zhihui , Li Jing , Li Yuhu , Qi Yunpeng , Hu Daodao , Xing Huiping , Chao Xiaolian
Published: May 2020

The microbubble disease of cellulose acetate microfilm is accompanied by the production of acetic acid syndrome, which has a negative influence on the integrity of image information. In the present study, cellulose acetate microfilm produced microbubble disease from the Republic of China (AD 1912-1949) collected in the Second Historical Archives of China is chosen as a prototype to study its treatment methods.A combination of optical microscopic and needle is carried out to remove plasticizer in microbubble for the first time. The plasticizer can be effectively removed by infiltrating n-butanol into the microbubble from a small hole broken by the needle. Owing to the unclear image information after plasticizer removed, the SEM and laser confocal microscopeare used to study the morphology and roughness of the inner surface of microbubble. It can be found that the unclear image informationis attributed to the light scattering from rough interface. Based on the advantages of ethyl cellulose in file protection, the optimal concentration of ethyl cellulose is selected and used to fill the interior of the microbubble to obtain clearer image information. To determine the protective potential of thisfilling materials,the chemical and mechanical properties of coated film after dry heat, hygrothermal andUVaccelerated aging are measured.Based on theabove-mentioned results, it is encouraging that a new microrepair method and its corresponding method are offered in film treatment work.
Sustainable Use of Fig Species Provides Nutrition and Medicine for Ethnic Minority Communities in the Southern Shan State of Myanmar
Authors: Mon Aye Mya , Shi Yinxian , Hein Pyae Phyo , Oo Thaung Naing , Whitney Cory W. , Yang Xuefei
Published: May 2020

Background: Fig trees are ecological keystone species in many tropical regions and play important roles in the spirituality, nutrition and health for many rural communities. Although the tropical forests in Myanmar contain many fig species, little ethnobotanical knowledge on their uses has been recorded.Information about the uses and conservation related actions of figswould be helpful in development ofstrategic policy for sustainable use and biodiversity conservation of the country. We showcase the rich ethnobotanical knowledge as well as the variety of collection and conservation practices related to figs among five ethnic groups in Southern Shan State. Methods: We performed both key informant and semi-structured interviews with 114 informants from five ethnic groups. Their uses for figs were categorized according to local practices and recipes. Informants were asked about trends in conservation status over the past 10 years and any conservation related customs and practices. Data were analyzed quantitatively by use report (UR) and use value (UV). Results: Informants reported the uses of eight fig species (Ficusauricularta，F.concinna, F. geniculata，F. hispida, F. racemosa, F. religiosa，F. semicordata, and F. virens).F. geniculata and F. virens were most useful (UR = 228) and were used by all five ethnic groups, corresponding to a high use value (UV = 2). Treatments for 16 diseases were reported from seven species. Household consumption, economic, and sacred uses were accompanied by sustainable practices of harvest and protection. Traditional taboos, in situ and ex situ conservation were practiced especially for highly demanded species (F. geniculata and F. virens), and the sacred fig F. religiosa.Conclusion: Findings suggest that figs are useful for nutrition (all informants) and medicine (13.16% of the informants) in the study area. Traditional taboos, in situ and ex situ conservation practices help to maintain sustainable utilization of locally important figs. This is an early contribution to the traditional knowledge of edible figs. Although similar uses have been reported in neighboring countries for seven of the fig species, the ethnobotanical use of F. concinna is novel.
Modeling the segment interactions of Ukraine’s financial market
Authors: Prymostka Liudmyla , Krasnova Іryna , Kulish Ganna , Nikitin Andrii , Shevaldina Valentyna
Published: May 2020

This study is devoted to assessing the level of individual segments interconnectedness within the financial market of Ukraine (FMU) and their dynamics in uncertain conditions. The methodology of the systematic approach is used to investigate the dynamic relationship between individual segments of the financial market of Ukraine, namely credit (deposit-credit) market, stock market (market of securities), government securities market, currency market, and interbank market. The study of financial market dynamics focuses on the description of the price indicators of individual market segments, which are monitored using time series analysis and statistical methods. The results of the time series assessment revealed the fractal characteristics of the Ukrainian financial market as a measure of sustainability (namely inertia). It is revealed that all segments of the financial market, except credit, are characterized by persistence. It is established that the development of market segments is uneven and is characterized as bifurcation. The credit segment is addicted to insider behavior and has the highest risk concentration. It is revealed that the foreign exchange market is still in crisis. The results of modeling the correlation relationships between market segments have shown that, in the presence of such relationships, they differ in the strength and nature of the interaction. They are volatile, unstable, and situational, dependent on external conditions. The credit market has a relationship with other segments, not significantly strong but stable. The results of the analysis indicate the dynamic development of segments within the Ukrainian financial market in the presence of interconnections between them. AcknowledgmentThe study was conducted within the framework of the State Budget of the Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman on the topic “Innovative development of banking activities in the integrated financial environment” (state registration number 0117U001178).  
Impact of integrated reporting on enterprise value-based management: evidence from Ukraine
Authors: Zhuravka Fedir , Kravchenko Olena , Ovcharova Natalia , Oleksich Zhanna , Miroshnychenko Olesia
Published: May 2020

An integrated approach to the enterprise value-based management (VBM) provides a precise assessment of all accounting entities. The implementation of such an approach allows determining the value of objects that do not have a material form (intangible assets), but have a significant impact on the enterprise value. The growing role of accounting data in enterprise value formation and management determines the necessity of the research. Thus, the article aims to investigate the effect of integrated reporting implementation on the VBM at the Ukrainian enterprises. Based on recent scientific researches, the study substantiates that the VBM approach should be based on an integrated reporting concept and proves the necessity of transition from the traditional accounting model to sustainability accounting in Ukraine. The findings reveal the approach of integrated reporting incorporation into the enterprise VBM system. The authors offer the concept of creating an integrated reporting model in Ukraine that considers economic and legal criteria, basic and qualitative principles, and production, human, financial, social, natural, and intellectual capital.
Bio-Augmentation of Nitrifying Microorganisms to Increase the Efficiency of Oxidation of Nitrogen Compounds during Wastewater Biofiltration
Authors: Sirotkin A.S. , Kobeleva J.V. , Gorshkova E.S
Published: May 2020

The efficiency of nitrifying bacteria bio-augmentation into biofilm microbiocenosis during 30-day continuous biofiltration of municipal wastewater model solution has been assessed. The laboratory setup consisted of two parallel operating biofilters, in one of which, after start-up period, cultures of ammonium-oxidizing and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria of the Nitrobacter genus were sequentially introduced. It was established that the bio-augmentation of ammonium-oxidizing bacteria into the biofilm microbiocenosis led to an increase in the efficiency of ammonium nitrogen removal by an average of 1.6 times compared to the control biofilter. The subsequent bio-augmentation of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria caused an increase in the amount of nitrates in purified water by 2 times on average. As a result of bio-augmentation of nitrifying bacteria into the biofilm microbiocenosis, the nitrification process was intensified. Quantitative and qualitative identification of microorganisms via fluorescence in situ hybridization showed an increase in the number of nitrifying microorganisms in the biofilm of experimental biofilter, which confirms the efficiency of introduction of microorganisms and correlates with the data on biotransformation of nitrogen compounds.

nitrifying microorganisms, wastewater biofiltration, biofilms, bio-augmentation, fluorescence in situ hybridization.
Assessment of the impact of the tax burden on the formation of sectoral features of the shadow economy of Russia
Authors: Fedotov Dmitry Yu.
Published: May 2020

This article examines the degree of influence of the tax burden on the formation of the shadow economy in Russia in the context of types of economic activity. The perspectives of various authors were taken into consideration when discussing that taxes have the greatest impact on the desire of taxpayers to “go into the shadows”. The author has studied various methods of measuring the value of the shadow economy used in the contemporary research. He presents the analysis of scales of shadow economy of Russia in 2011-2017 with application of various methods. Using the method measuring the share of economic operations not observed by direct statistical methods, the author has analyzed the value of the shadow economy in the sectors of the Russian economy. The results prove that the highest level of the shadow economy is observed in the sphere of real estate transactions, in agriculture, and in construction. The lowest level of the shadow economy was revealed in the financial sector, extractive industries, and electric power industry. The analysis of sectoral differences in the tax burden in Russia has uncovered the existence of an inverse relationship between the size of the tax burden and the scale of the shadow economy: in those industries, where a low tax burden is detected, there is usually a high share of the shadow economy. The obtained results allow confirming the originally proposed hypothesis that the high tax burden is not the leading factor provoking business to “go into the shadows” in order to avoid paying taxes.
Marketing approach to the studies of a region’s image
Authors: Pecherkina Irina F. , Shumilova Yuliya A. , Pereladova Elizaveta S.
Published: May 2020

This article explores the problems of studying the image of the region. A positive image of the region, formed in the target audience minds, increases the territory competitiveness, has a significant impact on the resource potential development, budget replenishment, and local production. In these conditions, the image management becomes a significant and relevant task that has important elements such as research and adequate evaluation of the image.
This article aims to form a set of indicators that allow studying and evaluating the region’s image using the marketing approach point, through the prism of attractiveness and competitive advantages of the territory. The authors provide an empirical interpretation concept of “a region’s image” with the allocation of structural components such as tourism attractiveness, investment attractiveness, attractiveness for residents of the region, attractiveness of the regional product. In addition, they explain the usage of the indicators’ system to obtain a comprehensive assessment of the region’s image. The concept optimization of the “image of the region” has been performed in the context of the earlier mentioned components of the regional image, with the identification of objective and subjective indicators.
The authors have studied some of the Tyumen Region’s image components. The “Investment Attractiveness” component is based on objective assessments of the region’s investment attractiveness ratings; the “Attractiveness for residents” component is based on subjective assessments of the Tyumen Region and Tyumen city residents of their living standards, social well-being, satisfaction with life improvement (quality of life), assessment of regional status in public opinion, and attitude to the region as a place of residence. The presented model allows identifying priority areas of the work on the region’s image and assessing the performed activities.
Kolliphor® HS 15-cyclodextrin Complex for the Delivery of Voriconazole: Preparation, Characterization, and Antifungal Activity
Authors: Li Yiqi , Zhu Chao , Wu Hui , Pan Hongchun , Liu Hong
Published: May 2020

Background:

This study aimed to reduce the amount of sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBECD) used in
the marketed voriconazole injections to meet the clinical needs of patients with moderate-to-severe renal impairment
(creatinine clearance rate <50 mL/min).

Objective:

This study found that the surfactant Kolliphor® HS 15 (HS 15) and SBECD had significant synergistic
effects on solubilizing voriconazole, and a novel voriconazole complex delivery system (VRC-CD/HS 15) was
established.

Methods:

The complex system was characterized, and its antifungal activity was studied by dynamic light scattering,
dialysis bag method, disk diffusion, and broth microdilution.

Result:

Compared with the control, its encapsulation efficiency (90.07±0.48%), drug loading (7.37±0.25%) and zeta
potential (-4.36±1.37 mV) were increased by 1.54%, 41.19%, and 296.36%, respectively; its average particle size
(13.92±0.00 nm) was reduced by 15.69%, so the complex system had better stability. Simultaneously, its drug release
behavior was similar to that of the control, and it was a first-order kinetic model. Antifungal studies indicated that the
complex system had noticeable antifungal effects. With the increase of drug concentration, the inhibition zone
increased. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of the complex system against Cryptococcus neoformans,
Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans were 0.0313 μg/mL, 1 μg/mL and 128 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion:

It showed a significant inhibitory effect on C. neoformans and had a visible therapeutic effect on
Kunming mice infected with C. neoformans. Consequently, VRC-CD/HS 15 had better physicochemical properties
and still had an apparent antifungal effect, and was promising as a potential alternative drug for clinical application.
Role of Exosomes in the Exchange of Spermatozoa after Leaving the Seminiferous Tubule: A Review
Authors: Wu Luming , Ding Yuan , Han Shiqiang , Wang Yiqing
Published: May 2020

Background:

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from cells upon fusion of an intermediate endocytic compartment with the plasma membrane. They refer to the intraluminal vesicles released from the fusion of multivesicular bodies with the plasma membrane. The contents and number of exosomes are related to diseases such as metabolic diseases, cancer and inflammatory diseases. Exosomes have been used in neurological research as a drug delivery tool and also as biomarkers for diseases. Recently, exosomes were observed in the seminal plasma of the one who is asthenozoospermia, which can affect sperm motility and capacitation.

Objective:

The main objective of this review is to deeply discuss the role of exosomes in spermatozoa after leaving the seminiferous tubule.

Methods:

We conducted an extensive search of the literature available on relationships between exosomes and exosomes in spermatozoa on the bibliographic database.

Conclusion:

: This review thoroughly discussed the role that exosomes play in the exchange of spermatozoa after leaving the seminiferous tubule and its potential as a drug delivery tool and biomarkers for diseases as well.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Patients with Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Qiu Jianguo , Tang Wei , Du Chengyou
Published: May 2020

Background:

Immune checkpoint modulators, such as the programmed death protein-1
(PD-1)/programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) inhibitor, cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-associated antigen 4
(CTLA-4) inhibitor have been investigated with encouraging results for hepatocellular carcinoma
(HCC). However, the safety of this strategy in patients with previous liver transplantation (LT) is not
well studied.

Objective:

To explore the safety and feasibility of immune checkpoints inhibitors in recurrent and
metastatic HCC patients on a background of LT.

Methods:

A case of recurrent, refractory, metastatic HCC after LT, where PD-1 inhibitor was initiated,
was described and related literature was reviewed.

Results:

There was complete remission in lung metastases and the partial radiological response of
metastatic retroperitoneal lymph node to the drug with no liver graft rejection after 13 cycles of PD-
1 inhibitor injection. PD-1inhibitor, at least in this patient, was verified to play an important role in
controlling tumor progression and prolonging patient survival.

Conclusions:

This novel drug might be a useful method to allow doctors to guarantee a better chance
for long-term survival in recurrent, metastatic HCC patients with the previous LT. However, it
should be used with caution in allograft recipients due to the risk of acute graft rejection, further
larger, prospective studies are needed to determine optimal immunomodulatory therapy to achieve
optimal anti-tumor efficacy with transplant liver preservation.
SARS-CoV-2: The Path of Prevention and Control
Authors: Mohamed Amal A. , Mohamed Nouran , Mohamoud Seham , Zahran Fawkia E. , Khattab Rania Abdelmonem , El-Damasy Dalia Ali , Alsayed Eman , Abd-Elsalam Sherief
Published: May 2020

The 2019 coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) continues to expand worldwide. Although
the number of cases and the death rate among children and adolescents are reported to be low compared
to adults, limited data have been reported. We urgently need to find the treatment and
vaccine to stop the epidemic. Vaccine development is in progress, but any approved and effective
vaccine for COVID-19 will take at least 12 to 18 months. The World Health Organization (WHO),
the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Agriculture Organization
(FAO) have issued instructions and strategies for controlling COVID-19 outbreak to the general
public, physicians, travelers and injured patients to follow so that the transmission to a healthy population
can be prevented. In this review, we summarize demographic data, clinical characteristics,
complications and outcomes and finally prevention and control strategies for this serious pandemic.
Evaluation of an On-Demand Mental Health System for Depression Symptoms: Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Kunkle Sarah , Yip Manny , Ξ Watson , Hunt Justin
Published: May 2020

Background

Depression is an extremely prevalent issue in the United States, with an estimated 7% of adults experiencing at least one major depressive episode in 2017. Although psychotherapy and medication management are effective treatments for depression, significant barriers in accessing care persist. Virtual care can potentially address some of these obstacles.

Objective

We conducted a preliminary investigation of utilization characteristics and effectiveness of an on-demand health system for reducing depression symptoms.

Methods

Data were analyzed from 1662 users of an on-demand mental health system that includes behavioral health coaching, clinical services (therapy and psychiatry), and self-guided content and assessments primarily via a mobile app platform. Measures included engagement characterized by mobile app data, member satisfaction scores collected via in-app surveys, and depression symptoms via the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) at baseline and 8-12 week follow-up. Descriptive statistics are reported for measures, and pre/post-PHQ-2 data were analyzed using the McNemar test. A chi-square test was used to test the association between the proportion of individuals with an improvement in PHQ-2 result and care modality (coaching, therapy, and psychiatry, or hybrid).

Results

During the study period, 65.5% of individuals (1089/1662) engaged only in coaching services, 27.6% of individuals (459/1662) were engaged in both coaching and clinical services, 3.3% of individuals (54/1662) engaged only in clinical services, and 3.7% of individuals (61/1662) only used the app. Of the 1662 individuals who completed the PHQ-2 survey, 772 (46.5%) were considered a positive screen at intake, and 890 (53.6%) were considered a negative screen at intake. At follow-up, 477 (28.7%) of individuals screened positive, and 1185 (71.3%) screened negative. A McNemar test showed that there was a statistically significant decrease in the proportion of users experiencing depressed mood and anhedonia more than half the time at follow-up (P<.001). A chi-square test showed there was no significant association between care modality and the proportion of individuals with an improvement in PHQ-2 score.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary insights into which aspects of an on-demand mental health system members are utilizing and levels of engagement and satisfaction over an 8-12 week window. Additionally, there is some signal that this system may be useful for reducing depression symptoms in users over this period. Additional research is required, given the study limitations, and future research directions are discussed.
Feasibility of Real Time Internet-Based Teleconsultation in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: Interventional Pilot Study
Authors: D'Haeseleer Miguel , Eelen Piet , Sadeghi Nima , D'Hooghe Marie B , Van Schependom Jeroen , Nagels Guy
Published: May 2020

Background

Telemedicine (TM) is currently flourishing in rural and emergency settings, but its implementation in the routine management of chronic neurological disorders has developed with more hesitation. Limited access to specialized care facilities and expanding patient populations, combined with unprecedented mobility restrictions imposed by the coronavirus disease pandemic, are currently stressing the need for remote solutions in this field. Studies in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have been heterogeneous in objectives and methodology but generally support the concept that TM interventions produce clinical benefits, cost-effectiveness, and user satisfaction. Nonetheless, data on live interaction between patients and health care providers for MS teleconsultation purposes remain scarce.

Objective

The aim of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of planned real time audiovisual teleconsultation over the internet for patients with MS.

Methods

A total of 20 patients with MS presenting at a specialized MS center in Belgium were recruited for this study. One teleconsultation was scheduled for each participant. Patients were provided a unique hyperlink by mail in advance, leading them automatically and directly to the virtual waiting room, where they could accept or decline our incoming call. All teleconsultations were performed by a trained medical student with the intention to keep the conversation similar to what is usually discussed during a classic face-to-face MS consultation; no remote physical exams were performed. The approach was considered feasible if at least 80% of the planned TM visits could be successfully completed at the foreseen moment. Patient satisfaction (technical quality, convenience, and overall quality of care) was evaluated at the end of each teleconsultation by means of 5-point Likert scales containing the categories very unsatisfied, unsatisfied, neutral, satisfied, and highly satisfied.

Results

Out of 20 consultations, 17 were successfully completed (85%). Failures were due to patients not responding (n=2) and technical issues (n=1). Out of the 17 consultations, 17 patients declared themselves satisfied or highly satisfied for technical quality, 15 patients for convenience, and 16 patients for overall quality of care.

Conclusions

Planned real time audiovisual teleconsultation over the internet is feasible and highly appreciated in patients with MS. Incorporation of such services in routine clinical MS practice is expected to improve access to specialized care facilities for affected patients.
Detecting False Alarms by Analyzing Alarm-Context Information: Algorithm Development and Validation (Preprint)
Authors: Fernandes Chrystinne , Miles Simon , Lucena Carlos José Pereira
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Although alarm safety is a critical issue that needs to be addressed to improve patient care, hospitals have not given serious consideration about how their staff should be using, setting, and responding to clinical alarms. Studies have indicated that 80%-99% of alarms in hospital units are false or clinically insignificant and do not represent real danger for patients, leading caregivers to miss relevant alarms that might indicate significant harmful events. The lack of use of any intelligent filter to detect recurrent, irrelevant, and/or false alarms before alerting health providers can culminate in a complex and overwhelming scenario of sensory overload for the medical team, known as alarm fatigue.

OBJECTIVE

This paper’s main goal is to propose a solution to mitigate alarm fatigue by using an automatic reasoning mechanism to decide how to calculate false alarm probability (FAP) for alarms and whether to include an indication of the FAP (ie, FAP_LABEL) with a notification to be visualized by health care team members designed to help them prioritize which alerts they should respond to next.

METHODS

We present a new approach to cope with the alarm fatigue problem that uses an automatic reasoner to decide how to notify caregivers with an indication of FAP. Our reasoning algorithm calculates FAP for alerts triggered by sensors and multiparametric monitors based on statistical analysis of false alarm indicators (FAIs) in a simulated environment of an intensive care unit (ICU), where a large number of warnings can lead to alarm fatigue.

RESULTS

The main contributions described are as follows: (1) a list of FAIs we defined that can be utilized and possibly extended by other researchers, (2) a novel approach to assess the probability of a false alarm using statistical analysis of multiple inputs representing alarm-context information, and (3) a reasoning algorithm that uses alarm-context information to detect false alarms in order to decide whether to notify caregivers with an indication of FAP (ie, FAP_LABEL) to avoid alarm fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

Experiments were conducted to demonstrate that by providing an intelligent notification system, we could decide how to identify false alarms by analyzing alarm-context information. The reasoner entity we described in this paper was able to attribute FAP values to alarms based on FAIs and to notify caregivers with a FAP_LABEL indication without compromising patient safety.
Understanding the asymmetric spread and case fatality rate (CFR) for COVID-19 among countries (Preprint)
Authors: Iype Eldhose , Gulati Sadhya
Published: May 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections are rising rapidly every day in the world, causing the disease COVID-19 with around 2 million people infected and more than 100,000 people died so far, in more than 200 countries. One of the baffling aspects of this pandemic is the asymmetric increase in cases and case fatality rate (CFR) among countries. We analyze the time series of the infection and fatality numbers and found two interesting aspects. Firstly, the rate of spread in a region is directly connected to the population density of the region where the virus is spreading. For example, the high rate of increase in cases in the United States of America (USA) is related to the high population density of New York City. This is shown by scaling the cumulative number of cases with a measure of the population density of the affected region in countries such as Italy, Spain, Germany, and the USA and we see that the curves are coinciding. Secondly, we analyzed the CFR number as a function of the number of days, since the first death, and we found that there are two clear categories among countries: one category with high CFR numbers (around 10%) and the other category with low CFR numbers (2% to 4%). When we analyzed the results, we see that countries with lower CFR numbers more or less tend to have implemented active control measures such as aggressive testing, tracking down possible infections, effective quarantine measures, etc. Moreover, we did not see any convincing correlation between mortality rates and the median age of the population.
A Sun Safety Pilot Program Using a Tanning Myths–Focused Video Contest for Utah Adolescents: Cross-sectional Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Truong Amanda , Forbes Brayden , Zhang Mingyuan , McFadden Molly , Klein Stephanie
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Adolescents are susceptible to excessive ultraviolet exposure due to intentional tanning, outdoor lifestyles, and poor sunscreen adherence. As skin cancer incidence continues to rise in the United States, effective and focused interventions are needed to encourage photoprotective behaviors.

OBJECTIVE

This study seeks to determine poor photoprotective behavior risk factors in adolescents residing in Utah and whether video contest participants have increased sun-protective knowledge and intentions.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we surveyed Utah high school students (n=20) who participated in a tanning myths-themed public service announcement video contest. A control cohort of students who did not participate in the video contest were also surveyed (n=89). Demographics, sun exposure history, intentions to tan, and intentions to use sunscreen were documented. Knowledge of tanning myths was assessed with a 7-question sun safety quiz.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 93.2% (109/117). Two-thirds reported at least one sunburn, and 47.7% (52/109) reported intentional tanning within the past 2 years. Higher tanning intentions were associated with a personal (P<.001), family (P=.001), and peer (P<.001) history of tanning. Video contest participants had higher sun safety quiz scores (P<.001) and higher sunscreen use intentions (P=.01), but did not have decreased tanning intentions (P=.47) compared to non–video contest participants. Hispanic and Black students were less likely to participate in the video contest (P<.001 and P=.04, respectively). In a comparison of White students to students of color, there were no differences in sun exposure history, but students of color had lower sun safety knowledge (P=.01) and lower sunscreen use intention (P=.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Sun safety educational disparities exist, and targeted efforts are needed to encourage photoprotective behaviors in high-risk populations. Our findings suggest that video contest participation may encourage sunscreen use and sun protection awareness.