bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness, Practices, and Demands of Traditional Medicine Providers for Continuous Medical Education in District Hospitals of Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Trung T. , Nguyen Quang N. , Truong Dung V. , Ngo Tam T. , Vu Ha N. , Mac Tuan D.
Published: June 2020

Expanding traditional medicine (TM) coverage in health care is a priority in Vietnam. Continuous medical education (CME) plays an important role in ensuring the quality of TM. However, evidence about TM CME in TM practitioners in Vietnam is insufficient. This paper aimed to evaluate the awareness, practice, and demands on TM CME among TM providers in district hospitals of Vietnam. This cross‐sectional descriptive study was performed at the district level at TM hospitals and TM departments of general hospitals in Thanh Hoa Province. Demographic characteristics, awareness, practice, and demand for TM CME were collected via face‐to‐face interviews. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models were applied to examine the factors associated with awareness, practice, and demand for TM CME. The majority of the respondents had ever heard of TM CME (87.5%). Only 60% received TM training in the last five years. Most respondents had a demand for CME (86.8%). The non‐Kinh ethnic group (OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.8) and people who had a temporary contract (OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.7) were less likely to be ever heard about TM CME. Higher levels of education (college, OR = 14.1, 95% CI = 1.0–195.9; undergraduate, OR = 9.1, 95% CI = 1.9–44.6) are more likely to be ever heard of TM CME than the vocational training group. Those who regularly update their knowledge are more likely to have heard about TM CME (OR = 7.7, 95% CI = 2.8–21.7) and are more likely to have demands on TM CME (OR = 3.7, 95% CI = 1.2–11.5). Those who had heard about TM CME were more likely to take these courses in the last five years (OR = 6.9, 95% CI = 2.5–18.8). However, this result was the opposite for people with more years of experience (OR = 0.9, 95% CI: 0.8–0.9). There were limited awareness and participation in TM CME but was a high need for CME among TM providers at district hospitals in Vietnam. Promoting lifelong learning and providing promptly supports would be potential to increase the TM CME demands and participation among TM providers.
Oncogene-Induced Senescence Limits the Progression of Pancreatic Neoplasia through Production of Activin A
Authors: Zhao Yajie , Wu Zhichong , Chanal Marie , Guillaumond Fabienne , Goehrig Delphine , Bachy Sophie , Principe Moitza , Ziverec Audrey , Flaman Jean-Michel , Collin Guillaume , Tomasini Richard , Pasternack Arja , Ritvos Olli , Vasseur Sophie , Bernard David , Hennino Ana , Bertolino Philippe
Published: June 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly and aggressive cancer. Understanding mechanisms that drive preneoplastic pancreatic lesions is necessary to improve early diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Mutations and inactivation of activin-like kinase (ALK4) have been demonstrated to favor PDAC onset. Surprisingly, little is known regarding the ligands that drive ALK4 signaling in pancreatic cancer or how this signaling pathway limits the initiation of neoplastic lesions. In this study, data mining and histologic analyses performed on human and mouse tumor tissues revealed that activin A is the major ALK4 ligand that drives PDAC initiation. Activin A, which is absent in normal acinar cells, was strongly induced during acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM), which was promoted by pancreatitis or the activation of KrasG12D in mice. Activin A expression during ADM was associated with the cellular senescence program that is induced in precursor lesions. Blocking activin A signaling through the use of a soluble form of activin receptor IIB (sActRIIB-Fc) and ALK4 knockout in mice expressing KrasG12D resulted in reduced senescence associated with decreased expression of p21, reduced phosphorylation of H2A histone family member X (H2AX), and increased proliferation. Thus, this study indicates that activin A acts as a protective senescence-associated secretory phenotype factor produced by Kras-induced senescent cells during ADM, which limits the expansion and proliferation of pancreatic neoplastic lesions.

Significance:

This study identifies activin A to be a beneficial, senescence-secreted factor induced in pancreatic preneoplastic lesions, which limits their proliferation and ultimately slows progression into pancreatic cancers.
Facts and Hopes in Immunotherapy of Soft-Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Martín-Broto Javier , Moura David S. , Van Tine Brian A.
Published: June 2020

Sarcomas are mesenchymal tumors, encompassing more than 175 subtypes, each one with their own genetic complexities. As a result, immunotherapy approaches have not been universally successful across the wide range of diverse subtypes. The actual state of science and the current clinical data utilizing immunotherapy within the soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) will be detailed in this review. More precisely, the review will focus on: (i) the role of the immune microenvironment in the development and activity of new therapeutic approaches; (ii) the recent identification of the sarcoma immune class (SIC) groups, especially group SIC E with its B-cell signature that predicts immunotherapy response; (iii) the clinical trials using PD-1 and/or CTLA-4 inhibitors, which serves as reference for response data, (iv) the promising clinical activity from the combination of anti-angiogenics agents with PD-1 inhibitors, (v) the adapted T-cell therapies for synovial sarcoma that target either NY-ESO or MAGEA4; and (vi) the role for localized therapy using the virotherapy T-VEC with PD-1 inhibitors. Herein, we present the facts and the hopes for the patients with sarcoma, as the field is rapidly advancing its understanding of what and where to use the various types of immunotherapies.
Colocalization of Tau but Not β-Amyloid with Cortical Superficial Siderosis in a Case with Probable CAA
Authors: Brendel Matthias , Catak Cihan , Beyer Leonie , Linn Jennifer , Wahl Hannes , Janowitz Daniel , Rominger Axel , Patt Marianne , Barthel Henryk , Sabri Osama , Bartenstein Peter , Wollenweber Frank Arne
Published: June 2020

Cortical superficial siderosis (cSS) is a common feature in patients with cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). The correlation between β-amyloid and/or tau pathology and the occurrence of cSS is unclear. We report on an 80-year-old male patient who was diagnosed with probable CAA according to modified Boston criteria and underwent longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging, amyloid positron emission tomography (PET), and additional tau PET imaging. Amyloid deposition presented predominantly in the contralateral hemisphere not affected by cSS. In contrast, tau deposition was predominantly overlapping with brain regions affected by cSS. Amyloid deposition was not different in the vicinity of cSS whereas tau depositions were elevated in the vicinity of CSS-affected regions compared to non-cSS-affected brain regions. This case of probable CAA suggests that cSS may be associated with a locally elevated tau pathology but not with increased fibrillary amyloid deposition.
A Compound Heterozygosis of Two Novel Mutations Causes Factor X Deficiency in a Chinese Pedigree
Authors: Lu Songsong , Lin Weicheng , Ji Huijuan , Su Ming , Zhao Xiaotao , Wang Chengbin
Published: June 2020

Background: Mutations in the F10-coding gene can cause factor X (FX) deficiency, leading to abnormal coagulation activity and severe tendency for hemorrhage. Therefore, identifying mutations in F10 is important for diagnosing congenital FX deficiency. Methods: We studied a 63-year-old male patient with FX deficiency and 10 of his family members. Clotting and immunological methods were used to determine activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time (TT), fibrinogen levels, FX activity, and FX antigen levels. The platelet count was determined. A mixing study was performed to eliminate the presence of coagulation factor inhibitors and lupus anticoagulant. Mutations were searched using whole-exome sequencing and certified by Sanger sequencing. Results: Genetic analysis of the proband identified two single-base substitutions: c.1085G>A (p.Ser362Asn) and c.1152C>A (p.Tyr384Ter, termination codon, caused by the DNA sequence TAA). His FX activity and antigen levels were 1.7% and 408.53 pg/mL, respectively; aPTT and PT were 52.3 and 48.0 s, respectively. One brother had the same compound heterozygous mutations, and his FX activity and antigen levels were 1.3% and 465.47 pg/mL, respectively; his aPTT and PT were 65.2 and 54.5 s, respectively. His mother, another brother, and one sister were heterozygous for c.1085G>A (p.Ser362Asn), and his daughter and grandson (6 years old) were heterozygous for c.1152C>A (p.Tyr384Ter). Conclusion: The heterozygous variants p.Ser362Asn or p.Tyr384Ter indicate mild FX deficiency, but the compound heterozygous mutation of the two causes severe congenital FX deficiency and bleeding. Genetic analysis of these two mutations may help characterize the bleeding tendency and confirm congenital FX deficiency.
Rechallenge Strategy in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Hanovich Ekaterina , Asmis Tim , Ong Michael , Stewart David
Published: June 2020

Drug resistance is one of the most important factors limiting the success of systemic anticancer therapy in achieving cure or prolonged overall survival. In clinical practice, resistant disease describes cancer that is found to have progressed since the time of treatment initiation. The term “drug resistant” is often used synonymously with “progressive disease” when referring to a treated tumour. Stopping a treatment at the time of disease progression is the current dominant approach of clinical trial conduct; therefore, available data from clinical trials are routinely not able to provide any information that could challenge this concept of permanent drug resistance. However, drug rechallenge and treatment continuation beyond progression have emerged as potential strategies in the past decade, especially for molecularly targeted agents and immunotherapy. In this review we focussed on rechallenge strategies for chemotherapy, immune therapy and targeted therapy in the main types of cancer.
Downregulation of IL-2 and IL-23 in Cervical Biopsies of Cervical Intraepithelial Lesions: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Petrini Caetano Galvão , Bastos Larissa Brito , Duarte Geraldo , Dos Santos Melli Patricia Pereira , Alves-Filho José Carlos , Quintana Silvana Maria
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types is associated with high-grade intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) and invasive cervical cancer. The host immune response plays a key role in whether HPV clears or persists. Most studies on local immune response to HPV collect cervical mucus in order to quantify secreted cytokines; however, cells located inside the tissue can release different cytokines associated with HPV infection. Objective: This study compared the cytokine levels in cervical biopsy specimens of women with abnormal colposcopic findings according to the histopathological results: low-grade intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), HSIL, and no intraepithelial lesion (NSIL). Methods: A cross-sectional study enrolling 141 cervical biopsy specimens examined the cytokine profile for interleukin (IL-) 2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17, and IL-23 and interferon-γ, using the Luminex assay/ELISA. Differences in cytokine levels among the cervical lesion groups were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: The 141 specimens included 90 HSILs, 22 LSILs, and 29 NSILs. IL-2 levels were significantly higher in NSIL samples than in LSIL or in HSIL samples (p = 0.0001) and IL-23 levels were significantly higher in NSIL than in HSIL samples (p = 0.003). Conclusions: Our study shows that in samples from the lesion site point, 2 important pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-2 and IL-23, are downregulated in HPV lesions.
Lamellar Inclusions within Hyperplastic Endoplasmic Reticulum in Benign Mesothelial Cells
Authors: Haefliger Simon , Jain Deepali , Menter Thomas , Vlajnic Tatjana , Savic Prince Spasenija , Hopfer Helmut , Mihatsch Michael J. , Bubendorf Lukas
Published: June 2020

Introduction: In effusion cytology, mesothelial cells can occasionally present with striking intracytoplasmic accumulation of rod- and crystal-like cytoplasmic lamellar inclusions (LIs). Their nature and function are poorly understood, and their diagnostic relevance is unknown. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the nature of LIs in mesothelial cells and determine their prevalence and diagnostic utility in routine practice. Material and Method: We reviewed a consecutive series of cytological specimens of reactive (n = 102) and malignant effusions (n = 90), respectively. Malignant effusions included malignant mesotheliomas (n = 63) and carcinomas (n = 27). LIs of one effusion were analyzed by electron microscopy (EM). Results: LIs were found exclusively in benign mesothelial cells in 14% (14/102) of reactive and in 4% (1/27) of malignant effusions with carcinomatosis. They were absent in effusions of malignant mesothelioma. EM revealed mainly straight lamellar, less tubular, structures in cisternae of the hyperplasic rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER). Conclusion: Cytoplasmic LIs located within hyperplastic rER can be found in up to 14% of effusions restricted to benign mesothelial cells. They can be used as an indirect morphological clue favoring the diagnosis of benign effusion and helping the cytologist to differentiate between reactive and malignant mesothelial cells in daily practice.
Warburg Micro Syndrome 1 due to Segmental Paternal Uniparental Isodisomy of Chromosome 2 Detected by Whole-Exome Sequencing and Homozygosity Mapping
Authors: Sezer Abdullah , Kayhan Gülsüm , Koç Altuğ , Ergün Mehmet A. , Perçin Ferda E.
Published: June 2020

Warburg micro syndrome (WARBM) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by microcephaly, cortical dysplasia, intellectual disability, ocular abnormalities, spastic diplegia, and microgenitalia. WARBM has 4 subtypes arising from pathogenic variants in 4 genes (RAB18, RAB3GAP1, RAB3GAP2, and TBC1D20). Here, we report on a patient with a homozygous pathogenic c.665delC (p.Pro222HisfsTer30) variant in the RAB3GAP1 gene identified by whole-exome sequencing (WES) analyses. Only his father was a heterozygous carrier, and homozygosity mapping analysis of the WES data revealed large loss-of-heterozygosity regions in both arms of chromosome 2, interpreted as uniparental isodisomy. This uniparental disomy pattern could be due to paternal meiosis I nondisjunction because of the preserved heterozygosity in the pericentromeric region. This report provides novel insights, including a rare form of UPD, usage of homozygosity mapping analysis for the evaluation of isodisomy, and the first reported case of WARBM1 as a result of uniparental isodisomy.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Outcomes in Hospitalized Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients
Authors: Ramachandran Preethi , Onukogu Ifeanyichkwu , Ghanta Snigdha , Gajendran Mahesh , Perisetti Abhilash , Goyal Hemant , Aggarwal Alok
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are increasingly being recognized in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It is unclear if the presence of GI symptoms is associated with poor outcomes in COVID-19. We aim to assess if GI symptoms could be used for prognostication in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients admitted to a tertiary medical center in Brooklyn, NY, from March 18, 2020, to March 31, 2020, with COVID-19. The patients’ medical charts were reviewed for the presence of GI symptoms at admission, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. COVID-19 patients with GI symptoms (cases) were compared with COVID-19 patients without GI symptoms (control). Results: A total of 150 hospitalized COVID-19 patients were included, of which 31 (20.6%) patients had at least 1 or more of the GI symptoms (cases). They were compared with the 119 COVID-19 patients without GI symptoms (controls). The average age among cases was 57.6 years (SD 17.2) and control was 63.3 years (SD 14.6). No statistically significant difference was noted in comorbidities and laboratory findings. The primary outcome was mortality, which did not differ between cases and controls (41.9 vs. 37.8%, p = 0.68). No statistically significant differences were noted in secondary outcomes, including the length of stay (LOS, 7.8 vs. 7.9 days, p = 0.87) and need for mechanical ventilation (29 vs. 26.9%, p = 0.82). Discussion: In our study, the presence of GI manifestations in COVID-19 at the time of admission was not associated with increased mortality, LOS, or mechanical ventilation.
New localities and distribution models inform the conservation status of the endangered lizard Anolis guamuhaya (Squamata: Dactyloidae) in central Cuba
Authors: Rodríguez-Cabrera Tomás M. , Torres Javier , Mancina Carlos A. , Marrero Ruben , Alfonso Yasel U. , Savall Ernesto Morell
Published: June 2020

New localities and distribution models inform the conservation status of the endangered lizard Anolis guamuhaya (Squamata: Dactyloidae) from central Cuba. Anolis guamuhaya is known from seven localities restricted to the Guamuhaya Massif in central Cuba and is always associated with mountane ecosystems above 300 m a.s.l. Previous evaluations of the conservation status of the species based on the estimated number of mature individuals have categorized the anole as Endangered. Eight new records of A. guamuhaya are provided here. These double the number of known localities, and two represent the first records of the species in lowland areas, apart from the Guamuhaya Massif. The new records extend the elevational range of the species from 15 m to above 1000 m. We used ecological niche modeling based on all of the locality records, along with what we considered the most appropriate IUCN criteria according to the available information (Criterion B) to reevaluate the conservation status of the species. These new records of A. guamuhaya increase its area of occupancy up to a total of 60 km2 , and its extent of occurrence up to 648 km2 . Despite this increase in geographic range, the species meets the IUCN criteria in the category of Endangered. We used ecological niche modeling to predict possible trends for the species under differing scenarios of global climate change, all of which portend a drastic reduction in area climatically suitable for A. guamuhaya.
Causes of embryonic mortality in Espadarana prosoblepon (Anura: Centrolenidae) from Costa Rica
Authors: Vallejos Johana Goyes , Ramirez-Soto Karim
Published: June 2020

Causes of embryonic mortality in Espadarana prosoblepon (Anura: Centrolenidae) from Costa Rica. Members of the family Centrolenidae—commonly known as “glass frogs”—exhibit arboreal egg-laying behavior, depositing their clutches on riparian vegetation. Few studies have investigated specific causes of mortality during embryonic stages, perhaps the most vulnerable stage during the anuran life cycle. The Emerald Glass Frog, Espadarana prosoblepon, was used as a case study to investigate the causes of embryonic mortality in a species with short-term (i.e., less than 1 day) parental care. The specific sources of mortality of eggs of E. prosoblepon were quantified and overall rates of survival (hatching success) were estimated. Nineteen egg clutches were transferred from permanent outside enclosures to the wild. Clutch development was monitored daily until hatching; five mortality causes were quantified: desiccation, failure to develop, fungal infection, predation, and “rain-stripped.” The main causes of mortality were predation (often by katydids and wasps) and embryos stripped from the leaf during heavy rains. The results were compared to those of previous studies of centrolenids exhibiting parental care, and discussed in the context of the importance of the natural history data for these frogs with regard to understanding the evolutionary history of parental care in glass frogs.
Carotid Atherosclerosis Evolution When Targeting a Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Concentration <70 mg/dL After an Ischemic Stroke of Atherosclerotic Origin
Authors: Amarenco Pierre , Hobeanu Cristina , Labreuche Julien , Charles Hugo , Giroud Maurice , Meseguer Elena , Lavallée Philippa C. , Gabriel Steg Philippe , Vicaut Éric , Bruckert Eric , Touboul Pierre-Jean
Published: June 2020

Background:

The TST trial (Treat Stroke to Target) showed the benefit of targeting a low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration of <70 mg/dL in terms of reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in 2860 patients with ischemic stroke with atherosclerotic stenosis of cerebral vasculature. The impact on carotid atherosclerosis evolution is not known.

Methods:

TST-PLUS (Treat Stroke to Target–Plaque Ultrasound Study) included 201 patients assigned to an LDL-C concentration of <70 mg/dL and 212 patients assigned to a target of 100±10 mg/dL. To achieve these goals, investigators used the statin and dosage of their choice and added ezetimibe as needed. Ultrasonographers were certified and carotid ultrasound examinations were performed using M′Ath software at baseline and at 2, 3, and 5 years. All images were uploaded to the Intelligence in Medical Technologies database directly from the carotid ultrasound device. The central core laboratory performed all offline measurements of the intima–media thickness of both common carotid arteries blinded from the randomization arm. The main outcomes were newly diagnosed atherosclerotic plaque on carotid bifurcation or internal carotid artery using the Mannheim consensus definition and between-group comparison of common carotid arteries intima–media thickness change.

Results:

After a median follow-up of 3.1 years, the achieved LDL-C concentrations were 64 mg/dL (1.64 mmol/L) in the lower-target group and 106 mg/dL (2.72 mmol/L) in the higher-target group. Compared with the higher-target group, patients in the lower-target group had a similar incidence of newly diagnosed carotid plaque: 46/201 (5-year rate, 26.1%) versus 45/212 (5-year rate, 29.7%). The change in common carotid arteries intima–media thickness was −2.69 µm (95% CI, −6.55 to 1.18) in the higher-target group and −10.53 µm (95% CI, −14.21 to −6.85) in the lower-target group, resulting in an absolute between-group difference of −7.84 µm (95% CI, −13.18 to −2.51;
P
=0.004).

Conclusions:

In patients with ischemic stroke and atherosclerosis, an LDL-C target of <70 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L) did not reduce the incidence of new carotid plaques but produced significantly greater regression of carotid atherosclerosis than an LDL-C target of 90 to 110 mg/dL.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01252875.
Neuronal Networks in Hypertension
Authors: Guyenet Patrice G. , Stornetta Ruth L. , Souza George M.P.R. , Abbott Stephen B.G. , Brooks Virginia L.
Published: June 2020

Neurogenic hypertension is associated with excessive sympathetic nerve activity to the kidneys and portions of the cardiovascular system. Here we examine the brain regions that cause heightened sympathetic nerve activity in animal models of neurogenic hypertension, and we discuss the triggers responsible for the changes in neuronal activity within these regions. We highlight the limitations of the evidence and, whenever possible, we briefly address the pertinence of the findings to human hypertension. The arterial baroreflex reduces arterial blood pressure variability and contributes to the arterial blood pressure set point. This set point can also be elevated by a newly described cerebral blood flow-dependent and astrocyte-mediated sympathetic reflex. Both reflexes converge on the presympathetic neurons of the rostral medulla oblongata, and both are plausible causes of neurogenic hypertension. Sensory afferent dysfunction (reduced baroreceptor activity, increased renal, or carotid body afferent) contributes to many forms of neurogenic hypertension. Neurogenic hypertension can also result from activation of brain nuclei or sensory afferents by excess circulating hormones (leptin, insulin, Ang II [angiotensin II]) or sodium. Leptin raises blood vessel sympathetic nerve activity by activating the carotid bodies and subsets of arcuate neurons. Ang II works in the lamina terminalis and probably throughout the brain stem and hypothalamus. Sodium is sensed primarily in the lamina terminalis. Regardless of its cause, the excess sympathetic nerve activity is mediated to some extent by activation of presympathetic neurons located in the rostral ventrolateral medulla or the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. Increased activity of the orexinergic neurons also contributes to hypertension in selected models.
Weight Status Change From Adolescence to Young Adulthood and the Risk of Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zhao Min , Bovet Pascal , Xi Bo
Published: June 2020

It is still unclear whether the risk of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in adulthood remains increased if excess weight in adolescence recedes later in life. This study examines the effect of change in weight status from adolescence to young adulthood on the risk of hypertension and diabetes mellitus. A total of 4454 adolescents aged 12 to 19 years from the US National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (1994–1995) were followed up to young adulthood (25–32 years, 2007–2008). After a median follow-up time of 13 years, compared with normal weight in both adolescence and young adulthood (n=1328, 29.8%), excess weight in the 2 periods (n=1077, 24.2%) was associated with an increased risk of hypertension (odds ratio, 3.72 [95% CI, 2.86–4.84]) and diabetes mellitus (3.32 [2.11–5.21]). Normal weight in adolescence but excess weight in young adulthood (n=1983, 44.5%) was associated with a lower but still significant risk of hypertension (2.49 [1.98–3.15]) and diabetes mellitus (1.59 [1.01–2.51]). In contrast, the risk of hypertension (1.37 [0.64–2.95]) and diabetes mellitus (1.65 [0.45–6.05]) was low in the few participants with excess weight in adolescence but normal weight in young adulthood (n=66, 1.5%). In conclusion, excess weight in young adulthood was associated with an increased risk of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, irrespective of weight status in adolescence. In contrast, excess weight in adolescence but normal weight in young adulthood did not seem to be associated with an increased cardiovascular risk in young adulthood.
LIMK (LIM Kinase) Inhibition Prevents Vasoconstriction- and Hypertension-Induced Arterial Stiffening and Remodeling
Authors: Morales-Quinones Mariana , Ramirez-Perez Francisco I. , Foote Christopher A. , Ghiarone Thaysa , Ferreira-Santos Larissa , Bloksgaard Maria , Spencer Nicole , Kimchi Eric T. , Manrique-Acevedo Camila , Padilla Jaume , Martinez-Lemus Luis A.
Published: June 2020

Increased arterial stiffness and vascular remodeling precede and are consequences of hypertension. They also contribute to the development and progression of life-threatening cardiovascular diseases. Yet, there are currently no agents specifically aimed at preventing or treating arterial stiffening and remodeling. Previous research indicates that vascular smooth muscle actin polymerization participates in the initial stages of arterial stiffening and remodeling and that LIMK (LIM kinase) promotes F-actin formation and stabilization via cofilin phosphorylation and consequent inactivation. Herein, we hypothesize that LIMK inhibition is able to prevent vasoconstriction- and hypertension-associated arterial stiffening and inward remodeling. We found that small visceral arteries isolated from hypertensive subjects are stiffer and have greater cofilin phosphorylation than those from nonhypertensives. We also show that LIMK inhibition prevents arterial stiffening and inward remodeling in isolated human small visceral arteries exposed to prolonged vasoconstriction. Using cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, we determined that LIMK inhibition prevents vasoconstrictor agonists from increasing cofilin phosphorylation, F-actin volume, and cell cortex stiffness. We further show that localized LIMK inhibition prevents arteriolar inward remodeling in hypertensive mice. This indicates that hypertension is associated with increased vascular smooth muscle cofilin phosphorylation, cytoskeletal stress fiber formation, and heightened arterial stiffness. Our data further suggest that pharmacological inhibition of LIMK prevents vasoconstriction-induced arterial stiffening, in part, via reductions in vascular smooth muscle F-actin content and cellular stiffness. Accordingly, LIMK inhibition should represent a promising therapeutic means to stop the progression of arterial stiffening and remodeling in hypertension.
DETERMINATION OF CONSUMERS' BEHAVIORS IN FOOD PURCHASING, CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION AND FOOD SAFETY
Authors: KILIÇ Osman , BOZ İsmet , AYDIN ERYILMAZ Gamze
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this research was to determine consumers’ behaviors regarding food purchasing, conservation, consumption and food safety in urban areas of Samsun province, Turkey. Data were collected through questionnaires from 384 consumers who were involved in purchasing and handling food in their families. Research results revealed that more than half of the respondents were aware of the concept of food safety. The main issues that consumers consider when buying food are the expiry date, brand and packaging. Television was the most frequently used source of food safety information. The results of regression analysis showed that being a woman, duration of education, and family income positively affected food safety awareness. In order to ensure food safety, it is necessary to establish a system under which both all food items are traceable and proper inspection process are carried out. Beside legal sanctions for wrong practices, there is also a need to raise awareness and increase the social responsibility of the people involved in the production and marketing of food items. Since food production is largely dependent on consumer demand, which is therefore one of the key elements in the sector, firms should develop marketing strategies that take account of consumers demands and the sensitivity of the community regarding the issue of reliable food. For this purpose, the awareness level of consumers about food safety needs to be increased by using information sources that are commonly used by consumers.
BİTCOİN PİYASASINDA RASSAL YÜRÜYÜŞ HİPOTEZİ
Authors: YAĞMUR Ayten , MANGIR Fatih
Published: June 2020

İktisat bilimi, ekonomik aktörlerin tercihlerini ve bu tercihlerin ekonomik göstergelere olan etkisini incelemektedir. Özelde, davranışsal iktisat okulu bu tercihlerin zaman zaman rasyonaliteden ayrıldığını ve bu irrasyonalitenin yol açtığı ekonomik krizleri de modelleyen çıkarımlar yapmaktadır. 2008 yılının sonlarında kripto para olan Bitcoin deneysel olarak kullanılmış, bu tarihten sonra bu kripto finans aracı hızla işlem görmeye başlamıştır. Ancak daha sonraki yıllarda Bitcoin’nin değerindeki dalgalanmalar onun finansal bir araç olmaktan daha çok bir deney aracı olduğu yönünde eleştirilmesine neden olmuştur.
Bu çalışmada etkin piyasa hipotezi ve davranışsal iktisat öğretilerinden yola çıkarak bitcoin piyasasının fiyat balonlarıyla spekülatif ve rassal hareketlere açık olup olmadığı (Supremum Augmented Dickey-Fuller ) SADF testi ile analiz edilmiştir. Ampirik bulgulara göre 2015-2019 dönemine ait Bitcoin fiyatlarında ortaya çıkan şokların etkisi kalıcıdır ve rassal yürüyüş hipotezi geçerlidir.
INNOVATIVE COMPETITIVENESS OF FRANCE’S SCIENCE AND RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: GÜNER Oğuz
Published: June 2020

National strategies, fiscal policies, scientific talent and human capital in science and research are some of the parameters affecting the innovative performance of countries. The study aims to present France’s science and research area and scientific talent in the European Union. It explains the innovative competitiveness in science and research, then compares France with the European Union countries on the basis of various indicators such as the Global Innovation Index, European Innovation Scoreboard and Eurostat. The study covers indirect measures related to human capital, scientific expenditures and knowledge production such as research investments, staff number in the science and research, collaboration with the industry and academic publishing. The research concludes that the development level of France’s science and research infrastructure is not as parallel as its economic size and should be strengthened.
PREDICTABILITY OF CHALLENGES ON PROFESSIONAL SELF – EFFICACY BELIEF OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY SPECIALISTS
Authors: AKSOY Şeyhmus , MAMATOĞLU Nihal
Published: June 2020

The object of this study was to examine the predictability of challenges on professional self – efficacy belief in occupational safety specialists. Also, psychometrically valid and reliable professional self – efficacy belief scale for occupational safety specialists was developed within this study. 332 occupational safety specialists from private sectors participated to this study. After reliability and validity analysis, 7 items professional self – efficacy belief of occupational safety specialists scale was emerged. Regression analysis showed that insufficient awareness of employers which is a sub – dimension of main challenges and organizational challenges predicts the professional self-efficacy belief of occupational safety specialists.
KURUMSALLAŞMA, KURUMSAL GİRİŞİMCİLİK VE ÖRGÜTSEL YENİLİKÇİLİK İLİŞKİLERİNİN X-Y KUŞAKLARI AÇISINDAN ANALİZİ: AİLE İŞLETMELERİNDE BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: ERDEM Ahmet Tuncay , KARADAL Himmet
Published: June 2020

Çalışmanın amacı, X ve Y kuşakları kapsamında kurumsal girişimcilik, kurumsallaşma ve örgütsel yenilikçilik arasındaki ilişkileri analiz etmektir. Araştırmanın örneklemini Konya ilinde bulunan aile işletmelerindeki X ve Y kuşaklarına mensup girişimciler ve profesyonel yöneticiler oluşturmaktadır (n= 207). Araştırma örnekleminden soru formu yoluyla verilere elde edilmiştir. Elde edilen veriler, aracı değişkenli regresyon analizi, doğrulayıcı faktör analizi, çoklu regresyon analizi, düzenleyici değişkenli regresyon analizi ve basit doğrusal regresyon analizi aracılığıyla test edilmiştir. Araştırma bulgularında; X ve Y kuşaklarının her ikisinde kurumsal girişimcilik ve kurumsallaşmanın örgütsel yenilikçilik üzerinde pozitif bir etkisi olduğu görülmüştür. Aynı şekilde X ve Y kuşaklarının her ikisinde de kurumsal girişimciliğin, kurumsallaşma ve örgütsel yenilikçilik ilişkisinde tam aracılık rolünün bulunduğu, diğer yandan kurumsal girişimciliğin, kurumsallaşma ve örgütsel yenilikçilik arasındaki ilişkide düzenleyici rolünün bulunmadığı belirlenmiştir.
Automated Harmonization of Bass Lines from Bach Chorales: A Hybrid Approach
Authors: Wassermann Gilbert , Glickman Mark
Published: June 2020

In this article, a combination of two novel approaches to the harmonization of chorales in the style of J. S. Bach is proposed, implemented, and profiled. The first is the use of the bass line, as opposed to the melody, as the primary input into a chorale-harmonization algorithm. The second is a compromise between methods guided by music knowledge and by machine-learning techniques, designed to mimic the way a music student learns. Specifically, our approach involves learning harmonic structure through a hidden Markov model, and determining individual voice lines by optimizing a Boltzmann pseudolikelihood function incorporating musical constraints through a weighted linear combination of constraint indicators. Although previous generative models have focused only on codifying musical rules or on machine learning without any rule specification, by using a combination of musicologically sound constraints with weights estimated from chorales composed by Bach, we were able to produce musical output in a style that closely resembles Bach's chorale harmonizations. A group of test subjects was able to distinguish which chorales were computer generated only 51.3% of the time, a rate not significantly different from guessing.
The digger wasps of the genus Palmodes Kohl, 1890 in Central Asia (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae: Prionychini)
Authors: DANILOV YURIY N. , BYVALTSEV ALEXANDER M.
Published: June 2020

All available information about the seven species of the digger wasp genus Palmodes Kohl known from Central Asia is summarized. A lectotype is designated for Sphex minor F. Morawitz, 1890. A new species Palmodes hissaricus Danilov is described and illustrated. Sphex mandarinius F. Smith, 1856 is resurrected from synonymy. The following new synonymy has been established: Palmodes mandarinius (F. Smith, 1856) (= Sphex montanus F. Morawitz, 1889), Palmodes melanarius (Mocsáry, 1883) (= Sphex pusillus Gussakovskij, 1930), Palmodes minor (F. Morawitz, 1890) (= Sphex parvulus Roth in de Beaumont, 1967), Palmodes occitanicus (Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau et Serville, 1828) (= Sphex palmetorum Roth, 1963). An original key to the Palearctic species is provided.
Jumping plant-lice (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) of Kerman, Iran, with the description of one new Cacopsylla species
Authors: LASHKARI MOHAMMADREZA , BURCKHARDT DANIEL
Published: June 2020

In a faunistic survey of the jumping plant-lice (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) in the province of Kerman, Iran, in 2016‒2017, one undescribed species, Cacopsylla paraspiculata Lashkari & Burckhardt, sp. nov., and one species new for Iran, Colposcenia orientalis (Klimaszewski, 1970), were collected. Descriptions and illustrations are provided for the two species as well as for Craspedolepta tadshikistanica Baeva, 1973. A revised checklist of jumping plant-lice from Kerman including 40 species of five families and 18 genera is presented based on literature records and recently collected material.
Redefinition of the genus Parabyrsopolis Ohaus and description of a new species from west-central Mexico (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Rutelini)
Authors: RAMÍREZ-PONCE ANDRÉS , NOGUEIRA GUILLERMO , CUNNINGHAM RICHARD A.
Published: June 2020

The morphological limits of the genus Parabyrsopolis Ohaus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Rutelini: Areodina) are redefined and Parabyrsopolis moroni new species is described from west-central Mexico. With this addition, the genus now includes five species that are distributed from southwestern United States of America to central Mexico. Diagnostic morphological characters and comparison with other Parabyrsopolis species are included, and some considerations about the morphological limits between Parabyrsopolis and Viridimicus Jameson are discussed.
Numerical analysis and application of the construction method for the small interval tunnel in the turn line of metro
Authors: Song Zhanping , Tian Xiaoxu , Liu Qi , Zhang Yuwei , Li Heng , Zhou Guannan
Published: June 2020

The surrounding rock may become unstable or even fall down and the initial support may crack and be destroyed when the construction method of the underground excavation tunnel is not properly selected in the turn line of metro. . A section of the Santunbei turn line of Urumqi Metro Line 1# was taken as the engineering background. The proposed construction method was analyzed by numerical simulation. Numerical analysis shows that the final surface settlement caused by the proposed construction method is 3.0 mm and the horizontal convergence is 3.2 mm. It also turns out that the proposed construction method causes less deformation, and the method can be applied to the construction of the small interval tunnel in the Santunbei turn line of metro. The rationality of the method and numerical model was further verified by comparison between the monitored data of surface settlement, horizontal convergence and vault sinking, and numerical simulation results. Finally, the deformation and stress of the six construction methods were compared. The deformation and stress caused by the six construction methods are almost the same. It indicates that the construction spacing between the left and right tunnels does not affect the safety of tunnel construction. Therefore, the appropriate construction spacing could be selected according to the resource configuration, instead of deformation and stress.
The Future of Cardioprotection—Pointing Toward Patients at Elevated Risk as the Target Populations
Authors: Bøtker Hans Erik
Published: June 2020

Translation of the cardioprotective effect by pharmacological and mechanical conditioning therapies into improvement of clinical outcome for the patients has been disappointing. Confounding factors like comorbidity and comedications may explain some of the loss in translation. However, the substantial improvement of outcome in disease states involving ischemia–reperfusion injury, that is, planned cardiac surgery, elective percutaneous coronary intervention, and even primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment myocardial infarction (STEMI), is the most plausible explanation for the missed demonstration of a clinical benefit. Remote ischemic conditioning has demonstrated consistent cardioprotective effect in experimental and in clinical proof-of-concept studies. As an adjunctive cardioprotective treatment beyond reperfusion, remote ischemic conditioning should address target populations at risk of extensive tissue damage, including patients who experience complications, which may induce profound myocardial ischemia in relation to cardiac surgery or elective percutaneous coronary intervention. Moreover, patients with STEMI and predictable impaired clinical outcome due to delayed hospital admission, high Killip class, cardiogenic shock, and cardiac arrest remain target groups. For high-risk patients, daily remote ischemic conditioning or the corollary of blood flow-restricted exercise may be alternative cardioprotective options during postoperative and post-myocardial infarct rehabilitation.
Effects of additional neck cut of the femur on the range of motion in total hip arthroplasty for hip dislocation: a computer simulation study
Authors: Makida Kazuya , Seki Taisuke , Osawa Yusuke , Takegami Yasuhiko , Higuchi Yoshitoshi , Kusano Taiki , Ishiguro Naoki
Published: June 2020

Background:

Subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy (SSO) is commonly performed in total hip arthroplasty (THA) for high hip dislocation. However, this procedure is technically difficult and includes complications. Additional neck cut (ANC) of the femur is a procedure that involves femoral shortening by possibly eliminating the need for SSO in THA for high hip dislocation. Herein, we evaluated the effect and the depth limit of ANC of the femur on the range of motion (ROM) in THA for high hip dislocation.

Methods:

ROM was measured in 26 patients with high hip dislocation using computer software. The stem was deeply positioned at 5-mm intervals from 0 mm to 30 mm (7 groups). The ROM before impingement was measured during flexion, internal rotation (IR) at 90° flexion, external rotation (ER) and abduction. Receiver operator coefficient (ROC) curves for abduction were generated. The cut-off value of ANC where the required ROM was achieved was also determined.

Results:

Deeper ANCs increased the ROM values during flexion and IR, but they decreased the ROM values during ER and abduction. The ROM values during ER were also limited in 0-mm ANCs. According to the result of the ROC curve for abduction, 15 mm was considered as the permissible range of ANC.

Conclusions:

In THA for high hip dislocation additional neck cut should be taken into consideration for hips requiring less than 15-mm shortening. For more extended corrections a subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy should be performed.
Operation characteristic of supercritical carbon dioxide-cooled reactor system under coordination control scheme
Authors: Du Xue , Hu Junsheng , Xia Genglei
Published: June 2020

Nuclear power plant is completely independent of air and has high power density, which improves unmanned marine vehicle maneuvering performance, maximum speed, and concealment. The supercritical carbon dioxide-cooled reactor system that has the advantages of compact system and high cycle efficiency is a promising energy conversion system candidate for generation IV reactors. However, due to the dramatic variations of supercritical fluid thermophysical properties, the operation of supercritical carbon dioxide-cooled reactor system is complex and it is difficult to control it. In this article, a mathematical model of supercritical carbon dioxide-cooled reactor system was established using the modified RELAP5 code, and two traditional coordination control schemes were used to study the system operation characteristics under load drop transient condition. Each key system parameter response characteristics was investigated. Finally, based on the research results, an optimized operation scheme that was proved to have better system control effect was proposed.
Acute cardiorenal syndrome in acute heart failure: focus on renal replacement therapy
Authors: Schaubroeck Hannah AI , Gevaert Sofie , Bagshaw Sean M , Kellum John A , Hoste Eric AJ
Published: June 2020

Almost half of hospitalised patients with acute heart failure develop acute cardiorenal syndrome. Treatment consists of optimisation of fluid status and haemodynamics, targeted therapy for the underlying cardiac disease, optimisation of heart failure treatment and preventive measures such as avoidance of nephrotoxic agents. Renal replacement therapy may be temporarily needed to support kidney function, mostly in case of diuretic resistant fluid overload or severe metabolic derangement. The best timing to initiate renal replacement therapy and the best modality in acute heart failure are still under debate. Several modalities are available such as intermittent and continuous renal replacement therapy as well as hybrid techniques, based on two main principles: haemofiltration and haemodialysis. Although continuous techniques have been associated with less haemodynamic instability and a greater chance of renal recovery, cohort data are conflicting and randomised controlled trials have not shown a difference in recovery or mortality. In the presence of diuretic resistance, isolated ultrafiltration with individualisation of ultrafiltration rates is a valid option for decongestion in acute heart failure patients. Practical tools to optimise the use of renal replacement therapy in acute heart failure-related acute cardiorenal syndrome were discussed.
The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway alleviates acute lung injury
Authors: Andersson Ulf
Published: June 2020

The ubiquiotous nuclear protein HMGB1 is extracellularly released by dying cells or activated innate immunity cells to promote inflammation. Extracellular HMGB1 plays a prominent role in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury of infectious as well as sterile origin including hyperoxia. Excessive amounts of systemic HMGB1 and HMGB1-partner molecule complexes can be retained in the pulmonary circulation indicated by a substantial reduction of HMGB1 plasma levels in arterial versus venous blood. The cholinergic antiinflammatory mechanism ameliorates pulmonary inflammation by inhibiting HMGB1 release and HMGB1 receptor expression. This comprehension was recently reinforced by results reported in Molecular Medicine by Sitapara and coworkers demonstrating that administration of an α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist attenuated hyperoxia-induced acute inflammatory lung injury by alleviating the accumulation of HMGB1 in the airways and the circulation. Activating the cholinergic antiinflammatory path might be considered to alleviate severe COVID-19 with or without concurrent oxygen-induced lung injury.