bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curcumin Improve Tendinopathy via Regulation TLR4 Pathway in Vitro and Vivo Study
Authors: Jun Tu , Ruipeng Guo , Xu Bin
Published: October 2020

BackgroundTendon disorders are a common type of soft tissue disease mainly characterized by various tendon syndromes with chronic pain. The purpose of this study was to evaluate curcumin had effects to improve tendon disorders by vitro and vivo study.ResultsCurcumin shows pharmacological activities similar to that of traditional anti-inflammatory agents and favorable therapeutic effects on various chronic inflammation-related diseases. In our present study, we discussed curcumin had effects to improve tendinopathy by vitro and vivo study. In further research, the study clearly explained the mechanisms by vitro study. The results were shown that curcumin had effects to improved tendinopathy which induced by TLR4/NF-κB(p65) pathway activating in vivo and vitro experiments. However, with TLR4 supplement, the treatment effect of curcumin has been disappear. ConclusionCurcumin had effects to improve tedinopathy via regulation depressing TLR4/NF-κB(p65) pathway and suppressing p-NF-κB(p65) nuclear volume.
WITHDRAWN: Structural, Dielectric and Impedance Spectroscopy of Cerium Doped Bamno3 Single Perovskite
Authors: Achary P.G.R. , Khandai Soumakanta , Sahoo Priyabrata , Bhuyan R.K. , Choudhary R.N.P. , Parida S.K
Published: October 2020

The synthesis of barium cerium manganite (BaMn0.9Ce0.1O3) perovskite compound by using a high-temperature oxide mixing method is reported. Structural analysis suggests a hexagonal crystal structure with space group P63/mmc. The average crystallite size and micro-lattice strain of the sample are about 74.4 nm and 0.107% respectively. The SEM micrograph suggests the uniform distribution of grains through well-defined grain boundaries and average grain size is about 11.9 μm. The relaxation time of the electrical process is calculated using the analysis of the real and imaginary parts of the complex impedance data, which suggests that the grain plays a dominant role compare to grain boundaries in defining the conductivity in the sample. Increase of activation energy from 96.8 meV to 689.9 meV with rise of temperature supports thermally activated conduction process. The modulus study suggests the relaxation process is controlled by the immobile charge carriers in the host materials at low-temperature range while controlled by defects at higher temperatures. The presence of semicircular arcs in both Nyquist and Cole-Cole plots confirms the semiconducting nature of the sample and find applications in solid oxide fuel cells and scintillators.
A Method for Modeling and Simulation of Lossy Queuing System
Authors: Wang Miao
Published: October 2020

Queuing is a common phenomenon in daily life. The theory of queuing provides theoretical basis and optimization scheme for queuing in real life. However, due to the limitation of time and space, the queuing problem in real life is not an ideal queuing model, and the field verification of the queuing model with losses consumes a lot of manpower, material resources and financial resources. In this paper, a queuing model with loss mechanism was established by using color Petri net. One-dimensional random walk model was improved and introduced into the queuing system to further reveal the principle of loss in queuing. CPN tools were used to simulate the model. By comparing the experimental results with the actual results, the correctness of the model is proved, which fully indicates that the model can well explain the loss of queuing system in real life.
Overexpression of lncRNA MCM3AP-AS1 in Sepsis Suppresses the Maturation of miR-223 to Promote LPS-induced Lung Cells
Authors: Gong Chunzhi , Wang Jianying , Liu Shupeng , Li Zunfeng , Liu Zhaoguo , Sun Chao , Zhang Quanyi
Published: October 2020

Background: Previous studies have showed that lncRNA MCM3AP-AS1 and miR-223 play opposite roles in LPS-induced inflammation, which contributes to the progression of sepsis. This study was therefore carried out to analyze the interactions between MCM3AP-AS1 and miR-223 in sepsis. Methods: Plasma samples were obtained from 62 sepsis patients and 62 healthy controls. Expression of MCM3AP-AS1, miR-223 precursor and mature miR-223 in plasma samples was determined by RT-qPCR. In human bronchial epithelial cells (HBEpCs), the interaction between MCM3AP-AS1 and miR-223 was analyzed by overexpression experiments. Cell apoptosis assay was analyzed by cell apoptosis assay.Results: We found that MCM3AP-AS1 was upregulated in sepsis, while miR-223 was downregulated in sepsis. MCM3AP-AS1 and mature miR-223 were inversely correlated, while MCM3AP-AS1 and miR-223 precursor were not. In HBEpCs, LPS treatment resulted in the upregulation of MCM3AP-AS1 and downregulation of miR-223. In HBEpCs, MCM3AP-AS1 overexpression downregulated mature miR-223 but failed to affect miR-223 precursor. In addition, MCM3AP-AS1 overexpression reduced the inhibitory effects of miR-223 on LPS-induced apoptosis of HBEpCs.Conclusions: LncRNA MCM3AP-AS1 is upregulated in sepsis and may suppress the maturation of miR-223 to promote LPS-induced lung cells.
LncRNA CYTOR Regulates Chondrocyte Apoptosis in Osteoarthritis by Acting as a CeRNA for miR-10a-5p
Authors: Luo Jiayi , Wu Cheng , Liu Yuanxin , Fan Jiannan , Shang Xianwen , Liu Riguang , Ye Chuan , Yang Jihong , Cao Hong
Published: October 2020

Background: It has been reported that lncRNA CYTOR suppresses LPS-induced inflammation, which plays crucial roles in osteoarthritis (OA). This study was therefore performed to analyze the role of CYTOR in OA.Methods: Expression of CYTOR and miR-10a-5p in OA patients and chondrocytes as well as healthy patients and chondrocytes was determined by RT-qPCR. The interaction between CYTOR and miR-10a-5p was predicted by IntaRNA online program and confirmed by dual luciferase activity assay. The role of CYTOR and miR-10a-5p in regulating the apoptosis of chondrocytes were analyzed by cell apoptosis assay.Results: CYTOR was under-expressed in OA patients and chondrocytes, and miR-10a-5p was overexpressed in OA patients and chondrocytes. After treatment, CYTOR was upregulated and miR-10a-5p was downregulated. CYTOR was predicted to interact with miR-10a-5p, and the interaction between them was confirmed by dual luciferase reporter assay. Overexpression of CYTOR and miR-10a-5p failed to affect the expression of each other. Cell apoptosis analysis showed that CYTOR overexpression reduced the enhancing effects of miR-10a-5p overexpression on the apoptosis of OA chondrocytes. Conclusion: CYTOR may suppress the development of OA by serving as a ceRNA for miR-10a-5p.
Identification and Biological Characteristic Analysis of Pythium aristosporum Causing Rice Seedling Blight in Northeast China
Authors: Liu Jinxin , Xu Chuzheng , Han Wenbo , Li Yonggang
Published: October 2020

Background: Rice seedling blight caused by diverse pathogenic microorganism occurs worldwide, and it is currently the most important seedling disease affecting rice production in Northeast China. Understanding the biological characteristics, host range, and fungicide sensitivity of pathogens causing rice seedling blight has important theoretical and practical significance for further exploring occurrence of the disease and for making targeted prevention and control measures.Results: 10 isolates of Pythium spp. were obtained from rice seedling blight, according to Koch’s postulates, in Heilongjiang Province, China. Based on morphology, molecular biology, and phylogenetic tree analyses, the obtained fungal isolates were identified as P. aristosporum. The biological characteristics of P. aristosporum showed that the optimum fermentation conditions were as follows: temperature, 25°C; initial pH, 6; photoperiod, 24 h light; and carbon and nitrogen sources, starch and glycine, respectively. P. aristosporum causing rice seedling blight had a wide range of hosts and could infect tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), carrot (Daucus carota L.), sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas), cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), and zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.), as well as seedlings of broad bean (Vicia faba L.), red bean (Vigna angularis), snailflower (Lablab purpureus (Linn.)Sweet), soybean (Glycine max), mung bean (Vigna radiata), kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), and hyacinth bean (Dolichos lablab L.); however, it could not infect cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings. We also evaluated P. aristosporum sensitivity to five commonly used fungicides and found that fludioxonil (EC50 = 0.0731 μg/ml) was the most effective against P. aristosporum.Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. aristosporum causing rice seedling blight in China. Fludioxonil is a relatively sensitive chemical fungicide against P. aristosporum. P. aristosporum causing rice seedling blight has a good environmental adaptability and a wide range of hosts, which poses a great threat to rice seedling production. Occurrence of the new disease caused by P. aristosporum should give full consideration for the use of proper disease management to protect rice.
Epigenetic and Three-dimensional Genomic Analysis of Long Non-coding and Circular RNAs in Xian/Indica Rice
Authors: Zhou Run , Sanz-Jimenez Pablo , Zhu Xi-Tong , Feng Jia-Wu , Shao Lin , Song Jia-Ming , Chen Ling-Ling
Published: October 2020

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) can play important roles in many biological processes. However, no study of the influence of epigenetics factors or the 3D structure of the genome in their regulation is available in plants. Results: In the current analysis, we identified a total of 15,122 lncRNAs and 7,902 circRNAs in three tissues (root, leaf and panicle) of the rice varieties Minghui 63, Zhenshan 97 and their hybrid Shanyou 63. Above 73% of the lncRNAs and parental genes of circRNAs (P-circRNA) are shared among Oryza sativa with high expression specificity. Compared with protein-coding genes, lncRNAs have higher methylation levels. CircRNAs tend to locate in the middle of genes with high CG and CHG methylation. The activated lncRNAs and P-circRNA are mainly transcribed from demethylated regions containing CHH methylation. In addition, ~53% lncRNAs and ~15% P-circRNA are associated with transposable elements, especially miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements and RC/helitron. We didn’t find correlation between the expression of lncRNAs and histone modifications; however, the binding strength and interaction of RNAPII significantly affects lncRNA expression. In contrast, parental genes of circRNAs tend to combine active histone modifications. Finally, lncRNAs and circRNAs acting as competing-endogenous RNAs have the potential to regulate the expression of genes with important roles in the growth and development of rice. Conclusions: Together, our results provide insights into the epigenetic and regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs and circRNAs in rice and open the door to increase our understanding of ncRNAs in plants.
C-type Natriuretic Peptide Promotes Adipogenic Differentiation of Goat Adipose Derived Stem Cells via cGMP/PKG/ p38 MAPK Signal Pathway
Authors: Fan Mingzhen , Yan Yutong , Miao Yuyang , Zhao Ying , Zhang Ziqing , Zhao Xiaoe , Ma Baohua , Wei Qiang
Published: October 2020

BackgroundTwo types of adipose tissue, white adipose and brown adipose, have been identified in mammals. For goat, adipose tissue also plays an important role in improving meat and milk quality. C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is a member of natriuretic peptide family. Once CNP binds to natriuretic peptide receptor B (NPR-B), NPR-B induces the production of cGMP, thereby activating PKG and downstream targets. The expression of CNP and NPR-B in adipose tissue led to a hypothesis that CNP could have roles involving in regulation of adipogenesis in goat. However, there are few studies on the relationship between CNP and adipogenesis in goat. In the present study, goat adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) were isolated and employed to investigate the effect of CNP on adipogenesis in goat.ResultsDuring adipogenic differentiation in goat ADSCs, the expression of NPR-B increased at 4 d and 8 d and reduced at 12 d after differentiation. When goat ADSCs were treated with 100 nM and 1000 nM CNP during adipogenic differentiation, there are more accumulation of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm and the up-regulation in the expression of adipogenesis relative genes including PPAR-γ, FASN and LPL. Interestingly, the expression level of brown adipose genes UCP-1 and PGC-1α were also up-regulated. Furthermore, the cGMP level was increased after treatment with CNP. Adding cGMP analogues 8-pCPT-cGMP (PKG activator) could increase adipogenesis efficiency, and adding both PKG inhibitor Rp-8-CPT-cGMP and CNP inhibited adipogenic differentiation. After treatment with CNP or PKG activator, the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, MK2 and ATF2 were up-regulated, and their phosphorylation were significantly inhibited when CNP and PKG inhibitor were added simultaneously. SB203580 is the specific inhibitor for p38 MAPK. After treatment with CNP and SB203580 simultaneously, the adipogenic differentiation efficiency of goat ADSCs was significantly inhibited, and the expression of UCP-1 and PGC-1α were also reduced. ConclusionsCNP could promote adipogenic differentiation of goat ADSCs. The stimulative effect of CNP on adipose differentiation depends on the cGMP/PKG/ p38 MAPK signal pathway. Our study will be helpful to understand the regulation mechanism of goat adipose differentiation, especially brown adipose differentiation.
Identification of Chicken Populations by Machine Learning Models Using the Minimum Number of SNPs
Authors: Seo Dongwon , Cho Sunghyun , Manjula Prabuddha , Choi Nuri , Kim Young Kuk , Koh Yeong Jun , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Hyungyong , Lee Jun Heon
Published: October 2020

BackgroundA marker combination capable of classifying a specific chicken population could improve commercial value by increasing consumer confidence with respect to the origin of the population. This would also facilitate the protection of genetic resources, especially in developing countries. MethodsIn this study, a total of 20 lines 283 samples which were consist of Korean native chicken, commercial native chicken, and commercial broilers with layer population were used for finding the minimum number of marker combinations through the 600k high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. Application of the machine learning algorithms, a genome-wide association study (GWAS), linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to distinguish a target (case) group from control chicken groups. In the verification of the selected markers, a total of 12 lines 182 samples were used to confirm the change in the accuracy of the target chicken breed identification.ResultsA total of 47,303 SNPs was used for classifying chicken populations; 96 LD-pruned SNPs (50 SNPs per LD block) served as the best marker combination for target chicken classification. Moreover, 36, 44, and 8 SNPs were selected as the minimum numbers of markers by Adaboost (AB), Random Forest (RF), and Decision Tree (DT) machine learning classification models, which had accuracy rates of 99.6%, 98.0% and 97.9%, respectively. The selected marker combinations increased the genetic distance between the case and control groups, and reduced the number of genetic components, confirming that an efficient classification of the groups was possible using small number of marker sets. In a verification study including additional chicken breeds and samples, the accuracy did not significantly change, and the target chicken group could be clearly distinguished from the other populations.ConclusionsThe GWAS and PCA analysis, machine learning algorithm used in this study is able to be applied efficiently to explore the minimum combination of markers that can distinguish varieties among a large number of SNP markers.
Differential Protein Expression of Osteoclastogenic Factors in Odontogenic Cysts and Tumors
Authors: Junior Vildeman Almeida , Leite Éder Gerardo Santos , Almeida Marcus , Castro Jurema Freire Lisboa de , Freitas Roseana Almeida , Xavier Flávia Caló Aquino , Figueiredo Andreia Leal , Santos Jean Nunes , Henriques Águida Cristina Gomes
Published: October 2020

Background: The osteolytic activity of odontogenic cysts and tumors is directly associated with their growth and aggressiveness. Proteins expressed by epithelial and mesenchymal cells can influence this biological event differently in indolent cystic lesions, aggressive cystic lesions, and odontogenic tumors.Methods: The objective of this study was to compare the immunohistochemical expression of factors that stimulate RANKL (Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand), CatK (cathepsin K) and MMP8 (Matrix Metallopeptidase 8) and inhibit OPG (osteoprotegerin) osteoclastogenesis between dentigerous cyst (DC), glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC), odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), and ameloblastoma (AB). Paraffin-embedded sections of 9 DCs, 9 GOCs, 20 OKCs, 21 ABs, and 4 dental follicles (DFs) were submitted to immunohistochemistry. The immunoreactivity in epithelium and connective tissue was analyzed semi-quantitatively and quantitatively, respectively. Immunoexpression of the proteins was observed in epithelial and mesenchymal cells of all lesions studied.Results: The expression of RANKL and CatK was higher in OKC, AB, and GOC (p<0.005). Higher expression of OPG was found in DF and DC compared to the other markers (p<0.005). MMP8 expression was high in GOC e OKC.Conclusions: This study demonstrated the differential expression of factors that inhibit and stimulate bone resorption during the development of DC, GOC, OKC and AB. Higher expression of RANKL and CatK was observed in more aggressive lesions. OPG appears to be one of the molecules responsible for the slower growth of DC.
An Environmental GIS-based Variable Analysis on SARS-CoV-2 in the City of Recife, Brazil
Authors: Souza Arthur , Mota Caroline Maria de Miranda , Rosa Amanda , Figueiredo Ciro , Candeias Ana Lucia
Published: October 2020

Background: Given the increasing rates at which people have been infected by Covid-19 evolving to case-fatality rates on a global scale and the context of there being a world-wide socio-economic crisis, decision-making must be undertaken based on prioritizing effective measures to control and combat the disease since there is a lack of effective drugs. Method: This paper explores the determinant factors of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts on Recife, Pernambuco-Brazil by performing both local and global spatial regression analysis on two types of environmental data-sets. Data were obtained from ten specific days between late April and early July 2020, comprehending the ascending, peaking and descending behaviours of the curve of infections.Results: This study highlights clusters of the most affected neighbourhoods and their determinant effects. We have observed the increasing phase with hotspots of confirmed cases in a well-developed and heavily densely-populated neighbourhood of Recife city, then evolving for hotspots of case-fatality rates into areas characterised by having a precarious provision of public services and low-income population. The results also help to understand the influence of the age, income, level of education of the population and, additionally, the people’s access to public services, on the behaviour of the virus across neighbourhoods.Conclusion: This study supports government measures against the spread of Covid-19 in heterogeneous cities, evidencing social inequality as a driver for a high incidence of fatal cases of the disease. Understanding the variables which influence the local dynamics of the virus spread becomes vital for identifying the most vulnerable regions for which prevention actions need to be developed.
Risk Factors and Cost of Nosocomial Infections in Pediatric Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Girgin Feyza Incekoy , Ozturk Makbule Nilufer
Published: October 2020

Aim: This study aimed to determine the factors that increase and decrease the presence of the nosocomial infections in pediatric patients with traumatic brain injury, and the effects on both treatment cost and length of hospital stay.Methods: We performed a case-control study on patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with (n=66) or without (n=120) traumatic brain injury (TBI) between 2012 and 2014. The risk factors, length of stay, and costs of nosocomial infections, were determined. Results: Data for 186 patients were analyzed. Hundred and twenty patients were controls (54 males vs. 66 females), while 66 were cases (27 males vs. 39 females). Seventeen out of the 186 PICU patients had nosocomial infections. The most isolated microbial agent was Acinetobacter baumannii (four cases). Thirteen (76.5%) out of the 17 infections were catheter-related bloodstream infections. The mean expenses per PICU patient were $762, with an additional cost of $2081 for patients with nosocomial contamination. Conclusion: The use of catheters was the most critical risk factor for nosocomial infections in our study. The cost was probably underestimated for several reasons. Nevertheless, the findings supported our hypothesis about the additional burden of nosocomial spread on PICU patients. The results of this study should help to provide evidence on cost-effectiveness or calculating the cost-benefit ratio of reducing nosocomial infections in children.
Sentiment Analysis of User Feedback on the HSE Contact Tracing App
Authors: Rekanar Kaavya , Buckley Jim , Buckley Sarah , Abbas Dr. Manzar , Beechum Sarah , Chochlov Muslim , Fitzgerald Brian , Glynn Liam , Johnson Dr. Kevin , Laffey John , McNicholas Bairbre , Nuseibeh Bashar , O'Connell James , O'Keeffe Derek , O'Callaghan Mike , Razzaq Abdul , Richardson Dr. Ita , Simpkin Andrew , Storni Cristiano , Tsvyatkova Damyanka , Walsh Jane , Welsh Thomas , O'Keeffe Ian R.
Published: October 2020

Digital Contact Tracing (DCT) is seen as a key tool in reducing the propagation of viruses such as Covid-19, but it requires uptake and participation in the technology across a large proportion of the population to be eﬀective. While we observe the pervasive uptake of mobile device usage across our society, the installation and usage of contact tracing apps developed by governments and health services globally have faced diﬃculties. These diﬃculties range across the user-populations’ issues with the installation of the apps, us-ability and comprehension challenges, trust in the eﬃcacy of the technology, performance issues such as the eﬀect on battery life, and concerns about data protection and privacy. In this work, we present our findings from a comprehensive review of the online user feedback relating to the initial release of the HSE Contact Tracker app, in an eﬀort to inform later iterations and thus help sustain and potentially increase usage of the technology. While this might seem quite tightly scoped to the Irish context only, this app provides the basis for apps in many jurisdictions in the United States and Europe. Our findings suggest a largely positive sentiment towards the app, and that users thought it handled data protection and transparency aspects well. But feedback also suggested that users would appreciate more targeted feedback,more proactive engagement and also suggested that both the ‘android-battery’ issue and the backward-compatibility issue with iPhones seriously impacted retention/uptake of the app respectively.
Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Global Prediction Using Hybrid Artificial Intelligence Method of ANN Trained with Grey Wolf Optimizer  
Authors: Ardabili Sina , Mosavi Amir , Band Shahab S. , Varkonyi-Koczy Annamaria R.
Published: October 2020

Advancement of the novel models for time-series prediction of COVID-19 is of utmost importance. Machine learning (ML) methods have recently shown promising results. The present study aims to engage an artificial neural network-integrated by grey wolf optimizer for COVID-19 outbreak predictions by employing the Global dataset. Training and testing processes have been performed by time-series data related to January 22 to September 15, 2020 and validation has been performed by time-series data related to September 16 to October 15, 2020. Results have been evaluated by employing mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and correlation coefficient (r) values. ANN-GWO provided a MAPE of 6.23, 13.15 and 11.4% for training, testing and validating phases, respectively. According to the results, the developed model could successfully cope with the prediction task.
Optimizations for Identifying Reference Genes in Bone and Cartilage Bioengineering
Authors: Xiong Fei , Cheng Xiangyun , Zhang Chao , Klar Roland Manfred , He Tao
Published: October 2020

Background：Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is commonly considered as the best-established technique for gene expression assay. However, appropriate reference gene set selection remains the critical and challenging subject for the proper understanding of gene expression pattern. Mixed opinions pertain in how to choose optimal reference gene set according to the Minimum Information for Publication of Quantitative Real-Time PCR Experiments (MIQE) guideline. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate which schemes was the most feasible for the identification of reference genes in bone and cartilage bioengineering experiments. In this study, rat bone mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs), skeletal muscle tissue and adipose tissue were utilized, undergoing either chondrogenic or osteogenic induction, to investigate the optimal reference gene set identification scheme ensuring the stable and accurate interpretation of gene expression in bone and cartilage bioengineering. Results：The stability and pairwise variance of eight candidate reference genes were analyzed using geNorm. The V0.15- vs. Vmin-based normalization scheme in rBMSCs had no significant effect on the eventual normalization of target genes. In terms of the muscle tissue, the results of the correlation of NF values between the V0.15 and Vmin schemes and the variance of target genes expression levels generated by these two schemes showed different schemes may have a significant effect on the eventual normalization of target genes. Three selection schemes were adopted in terms of the adipose tissue, including the three optimal reference genes (Opt3), V0.20 and Vmin schemes, and the analysis of NF values and eventual normalization of target genes showed that the different selection schemes have significant effect on the eventual normalization of target genes.Conclusions：Based on the results, the proposed cut-off value of Vn/n+1 under 0.15, according to geNorm algorithm, should be considered with caution, especially in certain tissue types such as skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Instead, the minimum Vn/n+1 should be used as the cut-off for choosing the optimal reference gene set especially when the stability and variation of candidate reference genes in a specific study are unclear.
On the study of full transmission dynamics of COVID-19 in Wuhan
Authors: You Chong , Gai Xin , Zhang Yuan , Zhou Xiao-Hua
Published: October 2020

The current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has quickly spread across countries and become a global crisis. Understanding the transmission mechanism and effects of interventions is critical to the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent study by Hao et al (2020) provided an interesting perspective on the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 in Wuhan and inferred that 87% of the infections before 8 March 2020 were not laboratory-confirmed. However we believe that there are a few major issues due to the vagueness in the definitions of compartments and inconsistence in the settings of parameters. In this paper, we clarify the definitions of the model compartments and raise questions in regard to the underlying homogenous assumption within compartments and settings of the parameters in the dynamic model by Hao et al (2020), and furthermore offer a modified model to resolve these potential limitations. Compared with the model in Hao et al (2020), the active virus carriers were predicted to persist for a longer period in our model which is well consistent with the active virus carriers detected in Wuhan in mid-May. Our model suggests that control measures cannot be easily lifted while continuous efforts are needed to contain the spread of the pandemic; a universal PT-PCR screening is essential to detect hidden cases before lifting control measure. In addition, we also provide a possible solution to solve the problem of heterogeneity transmission rate in disease courses.
Psychosocial Response Protocol for Pandemic Management 
Authors: S Anupama
Published: October 2020

Covid-19 is re-defining life globally. Human beings are trying to address the social, economic and political implications of the pandemic through various policy initiatives. But, the psychosocial impact of the pandemic remains implicit and hence unaddressed. The pandemic has upended the psychosocial equilibrium of society. It is crucial to restore this lost equilibrium through effective psychosocial management of the pandemic. This study tries to establish the need for such an approach and suggest ways for accomplishing the same. In the first part, an attempt is made to review the psychosocial impact of the pandemic. The second part undertakes a case examination of the acclaimed ‘Kerala model’. The model specific individual, community and institutional level initiatives that helped in effective pandemic management are analysed. Such case specific explorations can help to develop Psychosocial Response models. This can serve as a standard guideline for dealing with future emergencies and help mainstream psychosocial wellbeing. Such models can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of community to manage future emergencies.
Prevalence and prognostic value of cardiac troponin in elderly patients hospitalized for COVID-19
Authors: Marzo Vincenzo De , Biagio Antonio Di , Bona Roberta Della , Vena Antonio , Arboscello Eleonora , Emirjona Harusha , Mora Sara , Giacomini Mauro , Rin Giorgio Da , Pelosi Paolo , Bassetti Matteo , Ameri Pietro , Porto Italo
Published: October 2020

Background: Increases in cardiac troponin (cTn) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been associated with worse prognosis. Nonetheless, data about the significance of cTn in elderly subjects with COVID-19 are lacking.Methods: From a registry of consecutive patients with COVID-19 admitted to a hub hospital in Italy from 25/02/2020 to 03/07/2020, we selected those ≥60 year-old and with cTnI measured within 3 days from the molecular diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. When available, a second cTnI value within 48 hours was also extracted. The relationship between increased cTnI and all-cause in-hospital mortality was evaluated by a Cox regression model and restricted cubic spline functions with three knots.Results: Of 343 included patients (median age 75.0 (68.0-83.0) years, 34.7% men), 88 (25.7%) had cTnI above the upper-reference limit (0.046 µg/L). Patients with increased cTnI had more comorbidities, greater impaired respiratory exchange and higher inflammatory markers on admission than those with normal cTnI. Furthermore, they died more (73.9% vs. 37.3%, p<0.001) over 15 (6-25) days of hospitalization. The association of elevated cTnI with mortality was confirmed by the adjusted Cox regression model (HR: 1.61, 95%CI: 1.06-2.52, p=0.039) and was linear until 0.3 µg/L, with a subsequent plateau. Of 191 (55.7%) patients with a second cTnI measurement, 49 (25.7%) had an increasing trend, which was not associated with mortality (univariate HR 1.39, 95%CI 0.87-2.22, p=0.265).Conclusions: In elderly COVID-19 patients, an initial increase in cTn is common and predicts a higher risk of death. Serial cTn testing may not confer additional prognostic information.
Impacts of the 2008 Great Recession on dietary intake: a systematic review
Authors: Jenkins Rosemary H. , Vamos Eszter P. , Taylor-Robinson David , Millett Christopher , Laverty Anthony A.
Published: October 2020

Background: The 2008 Great Recession significantly impacted economies and individuals globally, with potential impacts on food systems and dietary intake. We systematically reviewed evidence on the impact of the Great Recession on children’s and adults’ dietary intake globally and whether disadvantaged individuals were disproportionately affected.Methods: We searched seven databases and relevant grey literature through June 2020. Longitudinal quantitative studies with the 2008 recession as the exposure and any measure of dietary intake (energy intake, dietary quality and food/macronutrient consumption) as outcomes were eligible for inclusion. Eligibility was independently assessed by two reviewers. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used for quality assessment. We undertook a random effects meta-analysis for changes in energy intake. Harvest plots were used to display and summarise study results for other outcomes. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019135864).Results: Forty-one studies including 2.6 million people met our inclusion criteria and were heterogenous in both methods and results. Ten studies reported energy intake, 11 dietary quality, 34 food intake, and 15 macronutrient consumption. The Great Recession was associated with a mean reduction of 39.9 calories per adult equivalent per day (95% Confidence Interval: -119.9, 40.2) in the meta-analysis of seven studies. We found reductions in dietary quality and small decreases in fruit and vegetable intake. We also found reductions in intake of meat and fish, fast food, sugary products, and soft drinks alongside an increase in the consumption of eggs and legumes. Impacts on macronutrients were inconclusive. Of 17 studies examining inequalities, 14 found that the Great Recession was associated with greater reductions in dietary intake and quality among more disadvantaged individuals. Only 4 studies investigated children’s intakes. Conclusions: The 2008 recession was associated with poorer dietary quality and decreased fruit and vegetable consumption, especially for more disadvantaged individuals. Implementing effective policies to mitigate adverse nutritional changes during the COVID pandemic and other major economic shocks should be prioritised.
Effect of tree canopy on species composition, diversity and biomass of herbaceous vegetation and soil characteristics in semi-arid forests of the Aravalli hills
Authors: Garg Shriya , Joshi Rajendra Kr. , Garkoti Satish Chandra
Published: October 2020

Background: Herbaceous vegetation is of great ecological importance and responds quickly to environmental changes. Present study was aimed to understand the variation in herbaceous species composition, diversity, biomass and soil physicochemical properties in canopy gaps and under the canopy of semi-arid forests in the Aravalli hills. Methods: Four permanent plots consisting of canopy gaps and under canopy were established. To study herbs phytosociological attributes and biomass, 10 quadrats of 0.5 x 0.5 m size were laid in each plot. For soil physico-chemical properties, 5 soil samples were collected randomly at 0-10 cm depth from each plot. Relationship between biodiversity indices, herbs biomass and soil physicochemical properties was determined using Redundancy Analysis (RDA) and correlation analyses. Results: The sites differed in terms of herbaceous species composition, diversity, biomass and soil physico-chemical properties. Canopy gaps were dominated by grasses while forbs were higher under the canopy. Across the sites, poaceae was the dominant family. All species showed contagious distribution pattern. Oplismenus burmannii reported highest IVI (138.0; 230.5) under the canopy while Achyranthes aspera (56.15) and Eragrostis ciliaris (53.1) had highest IVI in canopy gaps. Diversity indices were higher in canopy gaps. Herbaceous community biomass in canopy gaps ranged from 700-900 gm-2 while under the canopy it ranged from 30-70 gm-2. Cenchrus ciliaris (597.97 gm-2) and Chrysopogon sp. (391.2 gm-2) constituted major proportion of biomass in canopy gaps. The soil of under canopy regions had lower pH and bulk density, but higher soil moisture (%), electrical conductivity, soil organic carbon (SOC), soil total nitrogen (TN), SOC stock and soil TN stock than the canopy gaps. Linear positive relationship between species diversity and biomass; negative relationship between soil chemical properties and herbaceous biomass was found in study area. Even though canopy had positive effects on soil physico-chemical properties, overall negative effect on herbaceous diversity and biomass was seen. Conclusions: Reduced light for photosynthesis and tree root competition for soil resources may be the major factors negatively affecting herbaceous diversity and biomass. Canopy had a significant impact and herbs species composition, diversity, biomass and soil physico-chemical properties showed distinct differences in relation to it.
Dilemma in Handling Corpse with COVID-19 Protocol at Hospital in Padang, West Sumatera (Indonesia)
Authors: Windasari Noverika , Manela Citra , Zetta Fatimah Azahra
Published: October 2020

Background: The high risk of transmitting Covid-19 from the corpse causes the importance of handling protocols under coronavirus characteristics. Indonesian Forensic Doctor Association (PDFI) recently published a guideline to deal with this situation. Hospitals in Indonesia adapted these instructions as the standard. This process faces some struggle situations since this new guidance different from the usual protocols that are already well known by people in handling the deceased. This research evaluates the implementation of these protocols by medical practitioners in West Sumatera. This descriptive research was conducted in two COVID-19 refferal Hospital in Padang. There are 13 mortuary staffs as respondents from both hospitals who directly deal with the corpses. There were 129 bodies served under Covid-19, the guideline during this period. Results: The mortuary staff comes to the isolation room in about 30 minutes after being called to handling the corpse. Corpses were prepared and packed in this room. The dead bodies were transferred to the mortuary room before being driven to the funeral location by ambulance. The corpse, on average, waited less than 3 hours in the mortuary room. Mortuary staff showed a full sincerity to avoid transmitting Covid-19 as all of them used the recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while handling the infected corpses. The staff only started their work after the standard tools are available. Mortuary staff reported that 40% of relatives of the deceased gave a negative response to the Covid-19 guidelines. Conclusion: The implementation of the procedure to follow the instruction from PDFI in handling infected bodies has some problems. The process could be delayed if the protective equipment runs out, so the staff should wait for the availability PPE. The number of ambulances also gained the time process because some bodies remained so long for the available transport. Although the mortuary staff showed serious concern on the guidelines, they feel unsupported since some families of deceased show negative respect to the protocols. This research recommended that massive education about the Covid-19 protocol in preparing and packing the infected bodies is essential not only for medical practitioners but also for citizens.
College programming for students in addiction recovery: A PRISMA-guided scoping review
Authors: Vest Noel , Reinstra Meg , Timko Christine , Kelly John , Humphreys Keith
Published: October 2020

The health and well-being of students in recovery from substance use disorder is increasingly being recognized as a priority on college campuses. This scoping review maps the state of the existing literature evaluating collegiate recovery programming to highlight research gaps and inform policy. We conducted a systematic search of articles related to collegiate recovery programming published before August 2020. The 15 extracted study characteristics included publication type, study design, primary outcomes, reporting of behavioral addictions and mutual-help groups, sample demographic information, school size, ownership, and funding source. The PRISMA-guided search strategy identified 357 articles for abstract review; of 113 articles retained for full-text review, 54 studies were identified for final inclusion. Primary outcomes were coded into four domains: clinical, lived experience, program characterization, and stigma. All but one of the articles were observational (57%) or qualitative (41%) research designs. Government or foundation grants funded only 11% of the studies. Findings suggest that collegiate recovery programs reduce risk of relapse, improve educational outcomes, and provide social support for students in recovery. The domains identified offer a framework for healthcare providers, college administrators, and researchers to understand and improve programs, thereby better serving this marginalized student group.
Rupture and Call: Famine Encounters from Contemporary Irish and Ukrainian Women in the Arts
Authors: Holt Emily , Mahoney Grace
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the authors examine artistic engagement with famine memory by six women artists working in the Irish and Ukrainian contexts: Alanna O’Kelly, Paula Meehan, Mary McIntyre, Oksana Zabuzhko, Nataliia Vorozhbyt, and Lydia Bodnar-Balahutrak. Representing famine in artistic form is mired in ethical challenges. When interpreted at the level of national narratives, such histories can become identities and form a part of the collective ethos. Work by women artists is critically positioned to challenge the strong association between the feminine and the nation found in nationalistic discourses in both Ireland and Ukraine. The artists examined here work across genre and media, yet all eschew stereotypical imagery and prescribed vocabulary for representing famine, thus engaging in the complexities such representation offers. Framing their analysis with Bracha Ettinger’s concept of aesthetic wit(h)nessing, the authors find in the work of contemporary female artists in Ireland and Ukraine opportunities to encounter and grapple with famine memory without immediate recourse to commemoration or resolution. It is thus in the work of women artists today that one finds both a rupture and a call: a rupture to representing famine memory in modes that promote ownership and invite appropriation, and a call to consider what practices, rituals, and acts of wit(h)nessing have sustained life and remembered the dead after famine.
The Absent Rus' Land and Bohdan Khmel'nyts'kyi
Authors: Halperin Charles J.
Published: October 2020

After the Mongol conquest of the 13th century, the Kyivan myth of the “Rus' Land” played a less important role in the east Slavic lands that came under the control of Poland or Lithuania than in the northeastern territory that came to constitute Muscovy. Galicia, which belonged to Poland, became known administratively as the Rus' Land. The Belarusian-Lithuanian Chronicles revived the concept in the Ruthenian lands incorporated into the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. In these chronicles, Rus' Land referred to all of Kyivan Rus' historically, but could denote all the Ruthenian territories in the Grand Duchy, or only those in Belarusian regions, or only those in Ukrainian regions in the post-Kyivan period. In addition, the Belarusian-Lithuanian Chronicles borrowed passages from northeastern Rus' chronicles in which the Rus' Land meant northeastern Rus' or Muscovy. In the text of the Union of Lublin, the Rus' Land connoted the four borderland palatinates annexed by Poland after the Union of Lublin. The Rus' Land also occasionally appeared in other sources. However, Bohdan Khmel'nyts'kyi and the mid-seventeenth century Cossacks did not invoke the term to legitimize their new polity, thus discarding an element of the Kyivan inheritance. In Ukraine, this discontinuity of the Rus' Land myth has not been appreciated and remains unexplained.
Inhalation surfactant therapy in the integrated treatment of severe COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Bautin A. E. , Avdeev S. N. , Seyliev A. A. , Shvechkova M. V. , Merzhoeva Z. M. , Trushenko N. V. , Semenov A. P. , Lapshin K. B. , Rozenberg O. A.
Published: October 2020

The objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of inhaled surfactant therapy in the integrated treatment of severe COVID-19 pneumonia in a multicenter prospective clinical trial of surfactant-BL.

Subjects and methods. 122 patients with severe COVID-19-associated pneumonia treated in two treatment centers were enrolled in the study. All of them received antiviral, anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory therapy. 56 patients also received inhalation therapy with surfactant-BL (OOO Biosurf, St. Petersburg, Russia) at a dose of 1 mg/kg 2-3 times a day. The remaining 66 patients received no surfactant-BL inhalation. When included into the study, all patients were divided into two groups based on severity of the condition at the time of inclusion: 62 people (Group I) needed oxygen inhalation through a face mask with the flow of 6-8 L/min for hypoxemia correction (27 received surfactant therapy and 35 did not); other 60 patients (Group II) required non-invasive respiratory support (constant positive airway pressure, non-invasive mechanical ventilation, high-flow oxygen therapy), of them 29 received surfactant therapy, while 31 patients did not.

Results. In Group I, switching to invasive mechanical ventilation was required for 3/27 (11.1%) patients who received surfactant therapy, and 10/35 (28.6%) who received no surfactant therapy (p = 0.085); lethality made 3/27 (11.1%) and 9/35 (25.7%) (p = 0.131), respectively. In Group II, among those who received surfactant therapy, 5/29 (17.2%) were switched to invasive mechanical ventilation and 18/31 (58.1%) among those who did not receive it (p = 0.001); lethality made 5/29 (17.2%) and 18/31 (58.1%) (p = 0.001), respectively. In the pooled group of 122 patients with severe COVID-19-associated pneumonia, 8 (14.3%) of 56 patients who received surfactant died, and 27 (40.9%) of 66 died among those who did not receive it, (p = 0.001).

Conclusion: Inhalation surfactant therapy can reduce the frequency of switching patients to mechanical ventilation and statistically significantly reduce lethality caused by severe pneumonia associated with SARS-CoV-2.
Investigation of internal flow of Cryogenic injection
Authors: Wehmann Claus Franz , Reis Marcello , Lou Meng , Haidn Oskar Josef
Published: October 2020

As part of an effort to understand the conditions for the ignition of cryogenic propellants in the low pressure environment, we conducted a research of internal flow of cryogenic jet. In this paper, the experimental investigation was exerted focusing on the qualitative morphology study of the cryogenic flow inside the jet injectors. The test facilities were carefully designed and allow for visualization and characterization of the flow. The results show a strong dependence of mass flow rate on the fluid temperature. The two-phase flow was observed even for a long time chilling down of the injector. The Jacob number is proved to be a good indicator for the flow regimes, and the bubbles are present in the flow every time. The injector geometry has an influence on the flow rate, with the tapered injector demonstrating a higher flow rate than the sharp one.