bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual pollination trade uncovers global dependence on biodiversity of developing countries
Authors: Silva F. D. S. , Carvalheiro L. G. , Aguirre-Gutiérrez J. , Lucotte M. , Guidoni-Martins K. , Mertens F.
Published: March 2021

Virtual pollination flow reveals the importance of conserving nature worldwide to sustain current food consumption patterns.
Robust information routing by dorsal subiculum neurons
Authors: Kitanishi Takuma , Umaba Ryoko , Mizuseki Kenji
Published: March 2021

The dorsal subiculum robustly routes multiple types of navigation-associated information to downstream areas.
Coronavirus sequence trove sparks frustration
Authors: Wadman Meredith
Published: March 2021

Users of GISAID complain of opaque decisions and onerous restrictions.
As vaccine surpluses loom, donation plans urged
Authors: Cohen Jon , Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: March 2021

Rich countries have ordered billions of doses more than needed for their populations.
Who is stirring the waters?
Authors: Hall Julia , Perdigão Rui A. P.
Published: March 2021

Emerging pathways could improve attribution of changes in river flow across the globe
Predictive Value of Direct Disk Diffusion Testing from Positive Blood Cultures in a Children’s Hospital and Its Utility in Antimicrobial Stewardship
Authors: Savage Timothy J. , Rao Shun , Joerger Jill , Ozonoff Al , McAdam Alexander J. , Sandora Thomas J.
Published: March 2021

Accurate and early susceptibility results could reduce overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics for empirical treatment of bacteremia. Direct disk diffusion testing (dDD) using nonstandardized inocula directly from blood cultures could facilitate earlier narrowing of antibiotics.
Coding-Complete Genome Sequence and Phylogenetic Relatedness of a SARS-CoV-2 Strain Detected in March 2020 in Cameroon
Authors: Njouom Richard , Sadeuh-Mba Serge Alain , Tchatchueng Jules , Diagne Moussa Moïse , Dia Ndongo , Tagnouokam Paul Alain Ngoupo , Boum Yap , Hamadou Achta , Esso Linda , Faye Ousmane , Tejiokem Mathurin Cyrille , Okomo Marie Claire , Etoundi Alain , Carniel Elisabeth , Eyangoh Sara
Published: March 2021

We describe the coding-complete genome sequence of a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strain obtained in Cameroon from a 58-year-old French patient who arrived from France on 24 February 2020. Phylogenetic analysis showed that this virus, named hCoV-19/Cameroon/1958-CMR-YAO/2020, belongs to lineage B.1.5 and is closely related to an isolate from France.
GraXRS-Dependent Resistance of Staphylococcus aureus to Human Osteoarthritic Synovial Fluid
Authors: Watson David W. , Iglesias Santiago L. , Vasarhelyi Edward M. , Heinrichs David E.
Published: March 2021

Osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease that results in the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone, is the most prevalent joint disease in the United States. Surgical intervention, including total joint replacement, is a clinically effective procedure that can help to restore the patient’s quality of life.
Random forest approach for determining risk prediction and predictive factors of type 2 diabetes: large-scale health check-up data in Japan
Authors: Ooka Tadao , Johno Hisashi , Nakamoto Kazunori , Yoda Yoshioki , Yokomichi Hiroshi , Yamagata Zentaro
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Early intervention in type 2 diabetes can prevent exacerbation of insulin resistance. More effective interventions can be implemented by early and precise prediction of the change in glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Artificial intelligence (AI), which has been introduced into various medical fields, may be useful in predicting changes in HbA1c. However, the inability to explain the predictive factors has been a problem in the use of deep learning, the leading AI technology. Therefore, we applied a highly interpretable AI method, random forest (RF), to large-scale health check-up data and examined whether there was an advantage over a conventional prediction model.

Research design and methods

This study included a cumulative total of 42 908 subjects not receiving treatment for diabetes with an HbA1c <6.5%. The objective variable was the change in HbA1c in the next year. Each prediction model was created with 51 health-check items and part of their change values from the previous year. We used two analytical methods to compare the predictive powers: RF as a new model and multivariate logistic regression (MLR) as a conventional model. We also created models excluding the change values to determine whether it positively affected the predictions. In addition, variable importance was calculated in the RF analysis, and standard regression coefficients were calculated in the MLR analysis to identify the predictors.

Results

The RF model showed a higher predictive power for the change in HbA1c than MLR in all models. The RF model including change values showed the highest predictive power. In the RF prediction model, HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, body weight, alkaline phosphatase and platelet count were factors with high predictive power.

Conclusions

Correct use of the RF method may enable highly accurate risk prediction for the change in HbA1c and may allow the identification of new diabetes risk predictors.
Assessment of adherence to oral nutritional supplementation and exploration of barriers and facilitators in patients after gastric cancer surgery: a mixed methods study protocol
Authors: Wan Guang-ying , Xue Hui , Yuan Hua , Wang Xin , Li Hui-qin , Zhang Xiuying
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Postoperative malnutrition is a major issue in patients with gastric cancer. The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism recommends oral nutritional supplements (ONS) as a first-line nutritional therapy to prevent malnutrition in patients with cancer. However, adherence to ONS is unsatisfactory. The overall aim of this study was to evaluate the adherence of patients with gastric cancer to ONS and to explore the promoting and hindering factors.

Methods and analysis

In this study, we will use mixed methods with an explanatory sequential approach for data collection and analysis. In the first phase, a 12-week longitudinal study will be performed to identify changes in trends of oral nutritional supplementation adherence in 135 patients with gastric cancer, the impact of adherence on nutritional indicators and clinical outcomes and ONS adherence-related factors. The primary endpoints include patient adherence to ONS, weight, body mass index and grip strength followed by 30-day readmission rate, complications and adverse reactions. In the second stage, qualitative research will be implemented to provide in-depth insight into the quantitative results. Finally, quantitative and qualitative results will be combined for analysis and discussion to put forward suggestions for improving patients’ ONS adherence.

Ethics and dissemination

This research protocol has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the School of Nursing, Jilin University, China (No. 2019101601). Results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and conferences, and sent to participating practices.

Trial registration number

ChiTR2000032425.
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) performed by optometrists for patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension: a scoping review
Authors: Jones Lee , Konstantakopoulou Evgenia , Gazzard Gus
Published: March 2021

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) has been established as an effective treatment to lower intraocular pressure in people with glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The procedure is typically within the remit of ophthalmologists; however, there is potential to upskill optometrists and other healthcare professionals (HCPs) to deliver the treatment. We conducted a scoping review to identify the current global landscape of HCP-delivered SLT and describe training features, clinical effectiveness and safety. Relevant articles were identified through online database searches and grey literature sources. Four articles were selected for full inclusion. This review identified training programmes for optometrist-delivered SLT in the UK and the USA. The findings indicate that more research is needed to clarify training requirements and clinical effectiveness.
Oral health among HIV-positive and HIV-negative children in Phnom Penh, Cambodia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kikuchi Kimiyo , Yi Siyan , Yasuoka Junko , Tuot Sovannary , Okawa Sumiyo , Murayama Makoto , Yem Sokunthea , Chhoun Pheak , Eng Sothearith , Huot Chantheany , Morokuma Seiichi
Published: March 2021

Background

HIV-positive children are at high risk for oral mucosal disorders. Additionally, their low immune status is associated with dental caries. However, little is known about how their dental caries and related risk factors, such as salivary flow, salivary pH level and oral health-related quality of life, differ from those of HIV-negative children. The study aimed to assess (1) dental caries and related risk factors in HIV-positive compared with HIV-negative children and (2) the association between these factors and HIV seropositive status in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study conducted as a baseline survey of a randomised controlled trial. The study setting was the National Pediatric Hospital’s catchment area. The study population comprised 328 HIV-positive and 154 HIV-negative children aged 3–15 years and their caregivers. We collected clinical oral health data, questionnaire data to assess oral health-related quality of life and growth data.

Results

The mean number of decayed, missing or filled permanent teeth (DMFT) and deciduous teeth (dmft) among HIV-positive children was 4.0 (SD 3.6) and 7.0 (SD 4.9), respectively. Among HIV-negative children, the respective values were 3.3 (SD 3.7) and 7.1 (SD 4.6). Living with HIV was positively associated with DMFT (adjusted OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.01) and salivary flow (β=0.72, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.00) and negatively associated with salivary pH (β=−0.13, 95% CI −0.24 to –0.02). However, HIV-positive status was not significantly associated with dmft or oral health-related quality of life.

Conclusions

HIV-positive children had poorer oral health status regarding DMFT and salivary pH level. Specific strategies and further efforts are required to align their oral health status with that of HIV-negative children.
Disrupted prevention: condom and contraception access and use among young adults during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey
Authors: Lewis Ruth , Blake Carolyn , Shimonovich Michal , Coia Nicky , Duffy Johann , Kerr Yvonne , Wilson Jill , Graham Cynthia Ann , Mitchell Kirstin R
Published: March 2021

Background

The initial response to COVID-19 in the UK involved a rapid contraction of face-to-face sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and widespread use of remote workarounds. This study sought to illuminate young people’s experiences of accessing and using condoms and contraception in the early months of the pandemic.

Methods

We analysed data, including open-text responses, from an online survey conducted in June–July 2020 with a convenience sample of 2005 16–24-year-olds living in Scotland.

Results

Among those who used condoms and contraception, one quarter reported that COVID-19 mitigation measures had made a difference to their access or use. Open-text responses revealed a landscape ofdisrupted prevention, including changes to sexual risk-taking and preventive practices, unwanted contraceptive pathways, unmet need for sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and switches from freely provided to commercially sold condoms and contraception. Pandemic-related barriers to accessing free condoms and contraception included: (1) uncertainty about the legitimacy of accessing SRH care and self-censorship of need; (2) confusion about differences between SRH care and advice received from healthcare professionals during the pandemic compared with routine practice; and (3) exacerbation of existing access barriers, alongside reduced social support and resources to navigate SRH care.

Conclusions

Emerging barriers to STI and pregnancy prevention within the context of COVID-19 have the potential to undermine positive SRH practices, and widen inequalities, among young people. As SRH services are restored amid evolving pandemic restrictions, messaging to support navigation of condom and contraception services should be co-created with young people.
Tumor-associated neutrophils and macrophages interaction contributes to intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma progression by activating STAT3
Authors: Zhou Zhengjun , Wang Pengcheng , Sun Rongqi , Li Jia , Hu Zhiqiang , Xin Haoyang , Luo Chubin , Zhou Jian , Fan Jia , Zhou Shaolai
Published: March 2021

Background

Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) and macrophages (TAMs) can each influence cancer growth and metastasis, but their combined effects in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) remain unclear.

Methods

We explored the distributions of TANs and TAMs in patient-derived ICC samples by multiplex immunofluorescent staining and tested their separate and combined effects on ICC in vitro and in vivo. We then investigated the mechanistic basis of the effects using PCR array, western blot analysis and ELISA experiments. Finally, we validated our results in a tissue microarray composed of primary tumor tissues from 359 patients with ICC.

Results

The spatial distributions of TANs and TAMs were correlated with each other in patient-derived ICC samples. Interaction between TANs and TAMs enhanced the proliferation and invasion abilities of ICC cells in vitro and tumor progression in a mouse xenograft model of ICC. TANs and TAMs produced higher levels of oncostatin M and interleukin-11, respectively, in co-culture than in monoculture. Both of those cytokines activated STAT3 signaling in ICC cells. Knockdown of STAT3 abolished the protumor effect of TANs and TAMs on ICC. In tumor samples from patients with ICC, increased TAN and TAM levels were correlated with elevated p-STAT3 expression. All three of those factors were independent predictors of patient outcomes.

Conclusions

TANs and TAMs interact to promote ICC progression by activating STAT3.
Frictional Impact-Contacts in Multiple Flexible Links
Authors: Ahmadizadeh M. , Shafei A. M. , Jafari R.
Published: March 2021

Multiple impacts of 2D (planar) open-loop robotic systems composed of [Formula: see text] elastic links and revolute joints are studied in this paper. The dynamic equations of motion for such systems are derived by the Gibbs-Appell recursive algorithm, while the regularized method is employed to model the impact-contact mechanism. The Timoshenko beam theory is used to model the transverse vibrations of the links. Also, both the structural damping and air damping are considered to enhance the modeling accuracy. The system joints are assumed to be frictionless and slack-free, but friction force is included for the links colliding with the ground. The [Formula: see text]-flexible-link system considered goes through a flight phase and an impact phase during its motion. In the impact phase, new equations of motion are derived by including the terms caused by the viscoelastic forces in the system’s differential equations. Owing to the extremely short acting time of the impact force, the related differential equations can be solved only via special treatment, i.e. by detecting the exact moment of impact. To this end, entering or leaving the impact phase is analyzed and controlled with high precision by a special computational algorithm presented in this work. To demonstrate the efficacy and precision of the algorithm developed, computer simulations are conducted to study the dynamic behavior of a 3-link robotic mechanism. To investigate the effect of mode shape on the elastic deformation of links, four different mode shapes are used in the simulations and their results are compared.
A NEW RING STENT WITH GRADED GEOMETRY FOR TREATING COARCTATION OF CURVED AORTA ARTERIES
Authors: YIN XIAOWEN , HU XIAOMIN , LI TONG , MA JIAYAO
Published: March 2021

Ring stent implantation has been widely used to treat coarctation of the aorta (CoA) as an alternative to surgery. Currently adopted stents with uniform geometry may cause uneven stress distribution and high stress concentration in curved vessels, leading to in-stent restenosis (ISR). Inspired by functional graded material, here we propose a new ring-and-link stent, which has graded geometry in order to achieve a reduced peak stress when deployed in curved arteries. Numerical simulation of a single ring of the graded stent indicated that by varying the circumferential spacing of wave crest, the maximum stress exerted on the artery was reduced by as much as 27.86% in comparison with the uniform one. The effects of stent geometric parameters and artery curvature were also obtained through a parametric study. Finally, a whole stent was studied to verify the design, and a maximum stress reduction by 31.96% was achieved. In summary, the proposed graded ring stent shows great potential in clinical applications to reduce the risk of ISR.
COMPUTATIONAL STUDY OF GEOMETRIC EFFECTS OF BOTTOM WALL MICROGROOVES ON CELL DOCKING INSIDE MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES
Authors: AHANDOUST SINA , SAADATMAND MARYAM
Published: March 2021

Cells docking inside microfluidic devices is effective in studying cell biology, cell-based biosensing, as well as drug screening. Furthermore, single cell and regularly cells docking inside the microstructure of microfluidic systems are advantageous in different analyses of single cells exposed to equal drug concentration and mechanical stimulus. In this study, we investigated bottom wall microgrooves with semicircular and rectangular geometries with different sizes which are suitable for single cell docking along the length of the microgroove in [Formula: see text]-direction and numerous cells docking regularly in one line inside the microgroove in a 3D microchannel. We used computational fluid dynamics to analyze the fluid recirculation area inside different microgrooves. The height of recirculation area in the bottom of microgroove could affect the cell’s attachment, and also materials delivery to attached cells, so the height of recirculation area may have optimum value. In addition, we analyzed the fluid drag force on cell movement toward the microgroove. This parameter was proportional to the fluid velocities in [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] directions in different microgrooves geometries. In different microgrooves’ geometries the fluid velocity in [Formula: see text]-direction did not change, but the fluid velocity in [Formula: see text]-direction decreased inside the microgroove. Therefore, the cell movement time inside the microgroove increased, and also the drag force in [Formula: see text]-direction could push the cells toward the bottom due to the lower drag force in [Formula: see text]-direction. The percentages of negative shear stress and average shear stress on the adhered cell surface were also calculated. The lower average shear stress, and negative shear stress around 50% on the cell surface were against cell detachment from the substrate. The results indicated that at the constant fluid inlet velocity and microchannel height, microgroove geometry and ratio of cell size to the microgroove size play pivotal roles in the cell initial adhesion to the substrate as well as the cell detachment.
Outline of a Brain Model for Self-Observing Agents
Authors: Mitterauer Bernhard J.
Published: March 2021

Brain-inspired models for conscious robots should refer to the cellular double structure of the brain, consisting of the neuronal system and the glial system, embodying two ontological realms. Therefore, a purely neurobiological approach to machine consciousness is biased by an ontological fault in exclusively referring to the neuronal system. The brain model for self-observing agents outlined in this paper focuses on the glial-neuronal synaptic units (tripartite synapses). Whereas the neuronal component of the synapse embodies objective subjectivity processing sensory information, the glial component (astrocyte) embodies subjective subjectivity generating subjective behavior (intentions, consciousness) in its interactions with the neuronal part of the synapse. The elementary principle of the implementation of self-observing agents is this: a brain is capable of self-observation, if the concept of intention to observe something and the concept of the observed are located in different places. Based on a formalism of qualitative information processing, the architecture of self-observation is described in increasing complexity, building networks. It is suggested that if a robot brain is equipped with a network of modules for self-observation, the robot may generate subjective perspectives of self-observation indicating self-consciousness.
Holding a Conference Online and Live due to Covid-19
Authors: Bonifati Angela , Guerrini Giovanna , Lutz Carsten , Martens Wim , Mazilu Lara , Paton Norman W. , Vaz Salles Marcos Antonio , Scholl Marc H. , Zhou Yongluan
Published: March 2021

The joint EDBT/ICDT conference (International Conference on Extending Database Technology / International Conference on Database Theory) is a well established conference series on data management, with annual meetings in the second half of March that attract 250 to 300 delegates. Three weeks before EDBT/ICDT 2020 was planned to take place in Copenhagen, the rapidly developing Covid-19 pandemic led to the decision to cancel the face-to-face event. In the interest of the research community, it was decided to move the conference online while trying to preserve as much of the real-life experience as possible. As far as we know, we are one of the first conferences that moved to a fully synchronous online experience due to the COVID- 19 outbreak. By fully synchronous, we mean that participants jointly listened to presentations, had live Q&A, and attended other live events associated with the conference. In this report, we share our decisions, experiences, and lessons learned.
From Physics to Russian Studies and on into China Research: My Meandering Journey Toward Sociology
Authors: Whyte Martin King
Published: March 2021

I was initially reluctant to become a sociologist because my father, William Foote Whyte, was a prominent sociologist. Growing up during the Cold War led me in sequence through studying physics to Russian studies and then into Chinese studies, and I finally chose sociology as the best discipline for research on China, the primary focus of my career. The theoretical and methodological eclecticism of our discipline enabled me to do research on many intriguing research problems regarding contemporary Chinese society, first at a distance from Hong Kong and then through a series of collaborative surveys conducted within China. I found I could use sociological theories to more accurately and objectively interpret Chinese social patterns, while at the same time some paradoxical features of Chinese society enabled me to challenge existing social science theories. Over the course of my career I was gratified to see the sociological study of China move from being a somewhat marginal specialty into joining the mainstream of our discipline.
Simulation Study of Performance Degradation in β-Ga2O3 (001) Vertical Schottky Barrier Diodes Based on Anisotropic Mobility Modeling
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Wang Quan , Feng Chun , Wang Qian , Niu Di , Jiang Lijuan , Li Wei , Xiao Hongling , Wang Xiaoliang
Published: March 2021

Beta-gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3) devices exhibit the degradation of on-state characteristics compared with the theoretical expectation according the recent reports. Simulation of electrical properties in devices should, therefore, include model calibration valid up to such situation. In this paper, the anisotropic mobility modeling has been incorporated to calculate the electrical performances of β-Ga2O3 (001) vertical SBDs. This model parameters were revised through a series of reported experimental data, which presents that the electron mobility anisotropic ratio of 7 between two orthogonal directions ([100] and the normal of (001) orientation), resulting in much reduced mobility perpendicular to the device surface. Additionally, the forward characteristics and reverse recovery properties of β-Ga2O3 SBDs over range of 300–500 K were investigated by means of calibrated anisotropic mobility model. As a result, the on-resistance is much increased mainly leading to the degradation of the static forward mode, while a lower reverse current peak (Irr) for switching characteristics. The modified mobility modeling considering anisotropy provides a precise curve-fitting to the measurements of on-state characteristics of β-Ga2O3 SBDs, enabling a more accurate prediction of device performance.
Single Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Study of Ceria Nanoparticle Size Distribution from Oxide CMP with Microreplicated Pads
Authors: Zazzera Larry , Chan Qilin , Stomberg Jaimie , Simpson Alexander , Loesch Chris , LeHuu Duy , Muradian David , Lagudu Uma Rames Krishna , Mader Brian
Published: March 2021

This work describes the use of Single Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (spICP-MS) to measure ceria particle number concentrations and compare changes in size distributions to silicon dioxide wafer removal rates from different chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) processes. Particle number concentrations were measured for the 21 to 559 nm size range at 1 nm size resolution. Changes in the ceria particle size distribution after CMP included a decrease in large (>130 nm) particles, an increase in small (<40 nm) particles, an increase in the total number of particles, and a decrease in median particle size. The decrease in median size was as high as 7% and influenced by flow rate, pressure and pad type. A novel microreplicated CMP pad was used which requires no pad conditioning to ensure consistent pad surface features, and the effect of different pad types on removal rate and particle size was isolated. A decrease in the median particle size correlated with higher silicon dioxide removal rates (R2 = 0.96) for a series of pad types with unique combinations of chemistry and surface features. This new combination of nano particle metrology and control of pad surface features is an innovative tool set for modeling advanced CMP processes.
A Case of Follicular Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential (FT-UMP) with Glomeruloid Features Showing Capsular Mucinous Degeneration
Authors: Cabibi Daniela , Mondello Andrea , Florena Ada Maria , Rimi Giulia , Giannone Antonino Giulio , Cipolla Calogero , Valerio Maria Rosaria , Graceffa Giuseppa
Published: March 2021

The most recent revision of the World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Tumours of Endocrine Organs introduced a new variant of follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC). It is characterized by a “glomeruloid” architectural pattern of growth. We present a case of follicular tumor with glomeruloid features, with Alcian Blue positive mucinous stromal degeneration in foci of questionable capsular microinvasion. At our knowledge, this the second case of glomeruloid follicular tumor in the literature and the first case in which Alcian Blue staining was used to investigate capsular invasion. Moreover, RAS mutation further supports that this is a variant of follicular tumor with uncertain malignant potential.
Modeling and Parameter Optimization of Dynamic Characteristic Variables of Ballast Bed during Operation for Dynamic Track Stabilizer
Authors: Yan Bo , Yang Jingjing
Published: March 2021

The high traffic density of railway line causes ballasted track to be extremely busy, and thus it is particularly important to improve the efficiency during railway maintenance. The changing law of dynamic characteristics of ballast bed during operation for the dynamic track stabilizer is conducive to optimize simulation analysis of the vehicle‐track system, so as to provide an optimized choice of operating parameters for promoting the pertinence and efficiency of dynamic track stabilizer. This paper presents the acceleration response of vehicle‐track‐subgrade system during operation of a WD‐320 dynamic track stabilizer and proposes the range of effective operating parameters. Then, the influence of operating parameters on the dynamic characteristics of the ballast bed is discussed for searching the optimal operating parameters under the single factor influence. Finally, the change laws including the support stiffness, damping, lateral resistance, and subsidence for the ballast bed are studied, and a parameterized model for dynamic characteristics of the ballast bed which can optimize the selection for operating parameters is constructed, rendering an effective reference variable for improving the simulation accuracy of the vehicle‐track coupling system.
Clinical Evidence of Tai Chi Exercise Prescriptions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Huang Jiafu , Wang Dandan , Wang Jinghao
Published: March 2021

Objectives. This systematic review aims to summarize the existing literature on Tai Chi randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and recommend Tai Chi exercise prescriptions for different diseases and populations. Methods. A systematic search for Tai Chi RCTs was conducted in five electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, EBSCO, and Web of Science) from their inception to December 2019. SPSS 20.0 software and Microsoft Excel 2019 were used to analyze the data, and the risk of bias tool in the RevMan 5.3.5 software was used to evaluate the methodological quality of RCTs. Results. A total of 139 articles were identified, including diseased populations (95, 68.3%) and healthy populations (44, 31.7%). The diseased populations included the following 10 disease types: musculoskeletal system or connective tissue diseases (34.7%), circulatory system diseases (23.2%), mental and behavioral disorders (12.6%), nervous system diseases (11.6%), respiratory system diseases (6.3%), endocrine, nutritional or metabolic diseases (5.3%), neoplasms (3.2%), injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (1.1%), genitourinary system diseases (1.1%), and diseases of the eye and adnexa (1.1%). Tai Chi exercise prescription was generally classified as moderate intensity. The most commonly applied Tai Chi style was Yang style (92, 66.2%), and the most frequently specified Tai Chi form was simplified 24-form Tai Chi (43, 30.9%). 12 weeks and 24 weeks, 2-3 times a week, and 60 min each time was the most commonly used cycle, frequency, and time of exercise in Tai Chi exercise prescriptions. Conclusions. We recommend the more commonly used Tai Chi exercise prescriptions for different diseases and populations based on clinical evidence of Tai Chi. Further clinical research on Tai Chi should be combined with principles of exercise prescription to conduct large-sample epidemiological studies and long-term prospective follow-up studies to provide more substantive clinical evidence for Tai Chi exercise prescriptions.
Genetic Alteration Profiles and Clinicopathological Associations in Atypical Parathyroid Adenoma
Authors: Mao Xinxin , Wu Yan , Yu Shuangni , Chen Jie
Published: March 2021

Genomic aberrations associated with atypical parathyroid adenoma (AA) are poorly understood. Thus, herein, we sought to expand our current understanding of the molecular basis of atypical parathyroid adenomas. We analyzed 134 samples that had been surgically obtained from parathyroid tumors, including parathyroid carcinomas, atypical parathyroid adenomas, and parathyroid adenomas. The tumors were harvested from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. Fifteen tumor-related genes from recently published genome sequencing data were subjected to targeted sequencing analysis, and an average sequencing depth of 500x was achieved. Sixteen (16/50, 32%) AA tumors harbored at least one of the following genomic alterations: CDC73 (12, 24%), EZH2 (4, 8%), HIC1 (1, 2%), and CDKN2A (1, 2%). Our study identified, for the first time, a relatively high frequency of genomic alterations in patients with AA in a Chinese population. This suggests that AA arises de novo, rather than developing from a parathyroid adenoma. Altogether, these findings will improve our understanding of the malignant potential of parathyroid tumors at the molecular level.
Spontaneous Resolution of Cystic Adventitial Disease of the Popliteal Artery
Authors: Ibrahim Georges , Nabhani Sami , Feghaly Michel , Baaklini Georges
Published: March 2021

Spontaneous resolution of cystic adventitial disease (CAD) is rare with occasional reports in the literature. In this case report, we are describing a 30-year-old man who presented with rapid onset of severe intermittent claudication and was diagnosed with CAD. Resection of the lesion with autologous vein replacement was scheduled. However, the claudication suddenly improved at 4 weeks after onset. Ultrasonography and computed tomography revealed regression of the cystic lesions with resolution of the popliteal artery stenosis. His symptoms did not recur during the 12-month follow-up period. Although it is unclear whether this resolution is permanent, in this report, we describe our experience with a case of CAD that eventually spontaneously regressed and the possibility of conservative treatment.
Cardiac Aging: From Basic Research to Therapeutics
Authors: Yan Mingjing , Sun Shenghui , Xu Kun , Huang Xiuqing , Dou Lin , Pang Jing , Tang Weiqing , Shen Tao , Li Jian
Published: March 2021

With research progress on longevity, we have gradually recognized that cardiac aging causes changes in heart structure and function, including progressive myocardial remodeling, left ventricular hypertrophy, and decreases in systolic and diastolic function. Elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of cardiac aging is a great challenge for biologists and physicians worldwide. In this review, we discuss several key molecular mechanisms of cardiac aging and possible prevention and treatment methods developed in recent years. Insights into the process and mechanism of cardiac aging are necessary to protect against age‐related diseases, extend lifespan, and reduce the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease in elderly individuals. We believe that research on cardiac aging is entering a new era of unique significance for the progress of clinical medicine and social welfare.
Serum Phosphorus Levels are Associated with Intradialytic Hypotension in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Yang Kyung Hoon , Cho Seong , Kim Sung Rok , Lee Yu-Ji
Published: March 2021

Background: Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is a common serious complication in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Hyperphosphatemia is also common in HD patients and promotes vascular calcification. Given the association between vascular calcification and IDH, we investigated the association between IDH and serum phosphorus in HD patients. Methods: We enrolled 173 patients who received HD for 3 months or more. IDH was defined as a nadir systolic blood pressure (SBP) <90 mm Hg or as a decrease in SBP ≥20 mm Hg or a decrease in mean arterial pressure by 10 mm Hg with the occurrence of hypotension-related symptoms requiring intervention. Serum phosphorus levels were analyzed both as a continuous variable and as a categorical variable. Results: IDH occurred in 40 (23.1%) of the 173 patients. The mean phosphorus level was 4.9 mg/dL. A 1 mg/dL higher serum phosphorus resulted in a 2.1-fold greater odds of IDH. The fully adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were 2.11 (1.48–3.01). High categorized phosphorus levels were also associated with IDH. The highest tertile of serum phosphorus was associated with 6.5-fold greater odds of developing IDH compared to the referent group (the middle tertile of serum phosphorus, 4.0–<5.3 mg/dL); the fully adjusted OR (95% CIs) were 6.53 (2.23–19.09). In subgroup analyses, diabetes and pre-dialysis SBP modified the association between IDH and phosphorus levels, with a more pronounced association in diabetic patients and pre-dialysis SBP ≥140 mm Hg. Conclusion: In HD patients, higher phosphorus levels were associated with an increased occurrence of IDH.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ЕКСПРЕСІЇ ГЛОБУЛІНУ, ЯКИЙ ЗВ’ЯЗУЄ СТАТЕВІ ГОРМОНИ, У ДІВЧАТ ПУБЕРТАТНОГО ВІКУ ІЗ ДИФУЗНИМИ ЗАХВОРЮВАННЯМИ ПЕЧІНКИ
Authors: Сhaykivska E. F.
Published: March 2021

Мета дослідження – оцінити особливості секреції глобуліну, який зв’язує статеві гормони (ГЗСГ), у дівчат пубертатного віку із дифузними захворюваннями печінки.

Матеріали та методи. Під спостереженням перебували 582 дівчинки у віці 12–17 років, з яких 402 із дифузними захворюваннями гепатобіліарної системи (хронічним вірусним гепатитом (n=120), неалкогольною жировою хворобою печінки (n=120), автоімунним гепатитом (n=30), фіброзом та цирозом печінки (n=12), дискінезією жовчних шляхів (n=120)) і 180 умовно соматично здорових дівчат із нормальним статевим розвитком. Після проведення комплексного гепатологічного обстеження діагноз захворювання печінки встановлював гастроентеролог. У групах із захворюваннями печінки і здорових дівчат були рівномірно представлені вікові категорії від 12 до 17 років включно. Рівень ГЗСГ у венозній крові визначали імунохімічним методом у вікових категоріях 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 і 17 років.

Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. Серед дівчаток із дифузними захворюваннями печінки у всіх вікових категоріях найбільш високий рівень ГЗСГ реєстрували у хворих на хронічний вірусний гепатит, а найменший – у дівчаток із цирозом печінки. Низькі рівні ГЗСГ були характерні також для дівчаток із неалкогольною жировою хворобою печінки. Встановлено, що продукція ГЗСГ у пубертатному періоді з віком знижувалася як у соматично здорових дівчат, так і в дівчат із дифузними захворюваннями печінки. Однак, зниження продукції ГЗСГ при неалкогольній жировій хворобі та цирозі печінки було виражено більш значно, ніж у здорових дівчат. У дівчат із дискінезією жовчних шляхів вірогідних відмінностей рівнів ГЗСГ та швидкості його зниження з віком від аналогічних показників у контролі не зареєстровано.

Висновки. Рівень ГЗСГ є індикатором порушень функції печінки. ГЗСГ може бути легко вимірюваним і клінічно корисним біомаркером для раннього виявлення дітей, у яких в майбутньому можуть розвинутися хронічні дифузні захворювання печінки, а також ожиріння. Необхідні подальші дослідження, щоб зрозуміти, як регулюється ГЗСГ у дітей.
ВПЛИВ СТРЕСОВИХ СИТУАЦІЙ У СІМ’Ї НА ФОРМУВАННЯ ПОВЕДІНКИ ПІДЛІТКА
Authors: Shkiriak-Nyzhnyk Z. A. , Horban N. Ye. , Slobodchenko L. M. , Lapikura O. V. , Slepakurova I. V.
Published: March 2021

Мета дослідження – проаналізувати вплив стресових ситуацій у сім᾽ї на психоемоційний стан підлітка.

Матеріали та методи. Було відібрано 1075 комплектів анкет учасників («Анкета підлітка 15–18 років» та «Анкета матері підлітка 15–18 років»), серед яких при аналізі даних було сформовано дві групи – І групу склали 425 агресивних підлітків, ІІ групу склали 439 неагресивних підлітків, 211 анкет не увійшли у дослідження, зважаючи на відсутність відповідей. При аналізі враховували відмінності в розподілі між агресивною та неагресивною групами під впливом певних факторів.

Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. Було проаналізовано наявність зв᾽язку між особливостями сімейних стосунків та рівнем агресії підлітка. Серед підлітків, які віддавали перевагу спілкуванню з батьками та радилися з ними, до І групи потрапили лише 37,8 та 44,8 % опитаних відповідно, тоді як до ІІ групи – 62,2 та 55,2 % відповідно. Із підлітків, які зазнали стресу внаслідок постійних конфліктів із батьками, у І групі опинилися 71,4 %. Відповідно до отриманих даних, конфлікти з батьками чи у сім᾽ї мають більш вагомий вплив на психоемоційний стан підлітка, тоді як втрата роботи одним із батьків (у І групу потрапили 57,1 % із підлітків, які зазнали стресу внаслідок цього), серйозна хвороба в когось із членів сім᾽ї (61,0 % підлітків у І групі), розлучення батьків (62,0 % підлітків у І групі), поява нових батьків (71,8 % підлітків у І групі), смерть когось із родини (55,3 % підлітків у І групі) мають менший вплив.

Висновки. Стресові ситуації в родині мають негативний вплив на психоемоційний стан підлітка, тоді як спілкування з батьками має позитивний вплив на рівень агресії. Важливо проводити роботу з батьками щодо роз᾽яснення можливого негативного впливу недооцінки реакцій та переживань підлітком різних сімейних стресових ситуацій.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ІМУННОЇ РЕАКТИВНОСТІ ЕНДОМЕТРІЯ З НЕАТИПОВОЮ ГІПЕРПЛАЗІЄЮ У ПАЦІЄНТОК ІЗ БЕЗПЛІДДЯМ ТА ОЖИРІННЯМ
Authors: Nosenko O. M. , Yurchenko S. V.
Published: March 2021

Мета дослідження – вивчити особливості експресії субпопуляцій NK-клітин в ендометрії з неатиповою гіперплазією у пацієнток із безпліддям та ожирінням.

Матеріали та методи. Під спостереженням перебували 84 безплідних жінки з неатиповою гіперплазією ендометрія (НГЕ), серед яких 44 з нормальною масою тіла і 40 – з ожирінням, та 30 умовно здорових жінок контрольної групи. Забір зразків ендометрія здійснювали на 22-й день менструального циклу під час очікуваного вікна імплантації у жінок із НГЕ – під час гістероскопії, а у жінок контрольної групи – під час пайпель-біопсії. Проводили імуногістохімічне визначення в ендометрії CD16+ і CD56+ NK-клітин авідин-стрептавідин-пероксидазним методом із використанням відповідних моноклональних антитіл.

Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. У безплідних жінок із НГЕ мала місце надмірна активізація імунної реактивності в ендометрії з підвищеною інфільтрацією його СD56+ і цитотоксичними СD16+ NK-клітинами: експресія СD56+ була більшою від аналогічних показників контролю у 8,14 раза ((56,91±2,43) проти (7,18±0,41) ‰, p<0,01), СD16+ NK-клітин – у 48,04 ((41,31±1,84) проти (0,88±0,15) ‰, p<0,01). Водночас вміст СD56+ NK-клітин в ендометрії жінок із НГЕ та ожирінням був менший порівняно з аналогічним у пацієнток із нормальною масою тіла у 1,28 раза ((49,61±3,19) проти (63,55±3,34) ‰, p<0,01); вміст СD16+ NK – у 1,32 раза ((35,32±3,14) проти (46,75±1,71) ‰, p<0,01).

Висновки. Ожиріння у безплідних жінок із НГЕ внаслідок системного хронічного запалення приводить до зменшення кількості та цитотоксичності NK-клітин в ендометрії під час очікуваного вікна імплантації порівняно з аналогічною патологією в осіб із нормальною масою тіла, що може бути фактором прогресії відповідних неопластичних змін.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ЦИТОКІНОВОЇ РЕГУЛЯЦІЇ І ГЕМОДИНАМІЧНИХ ПОКАЗНИКІВ ШИЙКИ МАТКИ ПРИ ФІЗІОЛОГІЧНИХ ПОЛОГАХ
Authors: Shcherbina М. О. , Lipko O. P. , Potapova L. V. , Shcherbina I. M. , Mertsalova O. V. , Shelest N. V.
Published: March 2021

Мета дослідження – вивчити особливості імунологічної регуляції і гемодинамічні характеристики шийки матки при підготовці до термінових пологів.

Матеріали та методи. Відповідно до мети дослідження обстежено 75 вагітних при терміні вагітності 38–40 тижнів. Проводили загальноклінічні дослідження, імунологічні дослідження – визначення сироваткової концентрації цитокінів IЛ-6, IЛ-1β та ФНП-α; ехографічне та доплерометричне дослідження – визначення показників кровотоку в загальній матковій артерії в низхідному та висхідному відділах, в артеріях та венах строми шийки матки та в ділянці перешийка; вимірювали індекс резистентності (ІР) та систоло-діастолічне відношення (СДВ), для венозних судин – середню венозну швидкість (Vmean).

Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. Оцінка характеру продукції основних цитокінів, що беруть участь у підготовці організму до пологів (ІЛ-1β, IЛ-6 та ФНП-α) показала високі концентрації вивчених прозапальних цитокінів у сироватці крові вагітних із зрілою шийкою матки напередодні пологів порівняно з жінками з недостатньо зрілою шийкою матки. Результати дослідження основних показників цервікального кровотоку у вагітних досліджених груп показали достовірні відмінності індексів судинного опору в судинах, які живлять шийку матки. Виявлено тісний прямий кореляційний зв᾽язок (r=0,78) між вмістом вивчених цитокінів та рівнями індексів периферичного судинного опору в артеріях низхідного та висхідного відділів загальної маткової артерії шийки матки, а також показниками кровотоку в судинах строми шийки матки. Такий зв᾽язок може демонструвати важливий імунорегуляторний вплив цитокінів під час вагітності на процеси васкуляризації та кровопостачання в маткових судинах наприкінці вагітності.

Висновки. Процес підготовки організму до пологів пов᾽язаний із імунологічною перебудовою, яка характеризується зміною системного вмісту цитокінів і пов᾽язана з посиленням гемодинаміки шийки матки. Комплексний підхід до дослідження особливостей різних патогенетичних варіантів забезпечення готовності організму вагітної до пологів дозволить сформувати об᾽єктивні підходи до питань прогнозування ефективності індукції та преіндукції пологів, а також виникнення аномалій пологової діяльності.
ЗНАЧЕННЯ МОЛЕКУЛ СЕРЕДНЬОЇ МАСИ В ПРОГНОСТИЧНІЙ ОЦІНЦІ ЕТАНОЛОВОГО УШКОДЖЕННЯ ПЕЧІНКИ В ЩУРІВ ІЗ РІЗНОЮ ЕМОЦІЙНІСТЮ
Authors: Denefil О. V. , Kostiuk O. A.
Published: March 2021

Резюме. Алкогольне ушкодження печінки є великим економічним та демографічним тягарем у всьому світі. Одним із синдромів, який завжди супроводжує ушкодження печінки, є ендогенна інтоксикація, наявність якої можна визначити за вмістом молекул середньої маси (МСМ). Рівень МСМ залежить від метаболізму організму і є прогностичним критерієм порушення обмінних процесів.
Мета дослідження – визначити ступінь ендогенної інтоксикації за вмістом молекул середньої маси у сироватці крові щурів-самців із різним ступенем емоційності при етаноловому ушкодженні печінки.
Матеріали і методи. Досліди виконано на 192 білих безпородних високо- і низькоемоційних щурах-самцях (ВЕ і НЕ). Емоційність тварин визначали за методом «відкрите поле». Усіх щурів поділили на наступні групи: контроль, глюкоза 7 днів, етаноловий гепатит (ЕГ); глюкоза 60 днів, етаноловий гепатоз (Гз), етаноловий фіброз (ЕФ), етаноловий цироз (ЕЦ). Рівень інтоксикації у сироватці крові визначали за вмістом молекул середньої маси при довжинах хвилі λ=238; 254; 260 і 280 нм.
Результати. Найбільше накопичення МСМ238 було при ЕГз як у ВЕ, так і НЕ, а далі при ЕГ, більше виражено у НЕ, при ЕФ – у ВЕ і при ЕЦ незалежно від емоційності. Найбільше накопичення МСМ254 було при ЕГз, більше у ВЕ, далі при ЕГ незалежно від емоційності, при ЕЦ і ЕФ – у ВЕ та при ЕФ і ЕЦ – у НЕ. Найбільше накопичення МСМ260 було при ЕГз, більше у ВЕ, далі при ЕЦ як у ВЕ, так і НЕ, при ЕФ, більше виражено у ВЕ та при ЕГ незалежно від емоційності. Найбільше накопичення МСМ280 у ВЕ тварин було в такому порядку ЕГ>ЕЦ>ЕФ=ЕГз, у НЕ – ЕГ>ЕЦ>ЕГз>ЕФ.
Висновки. Дослідження ендогенної інтоксикації за вмістом МСМ показало, що етанол має токсичний вплив на організм. Руйнування гепатоцитів зменшується в міру поглиблення патологічного процесу – від гепатозу до цирозу печінки. Залежність від емоційного стану тварини в розвитку етанолового ушкодження організму проявляється тільки при гепатиті та фіброзі. Найбільше накопичення токсичних речовин наступне: у високоемоційних тварин – гепатоз>гепатит>фіброз=цироз, у низькоемоційних – гепатит>гепатоз>фіброз>цироз.
O que imaginam as empresas brasileiras? Análise discursiva das declarações de visão
Authors: Sathler André Rehbein , Miranda Roberto Campos da Rocha
Published: March 2021

Esta pesquisa qualitativa traçou um perfil do imaginário das maiores empresas brasileiras, com base nas suas declarações de visão, partindo de técnicas de análise de conteúdo e discurso. Os resultados indicam que metade das empresas ostenta uma declaração de visão, com frequência de palavras similar à média internacional, e refletem baixa adequação aos componentes previstos para uma boa declaração. Os resultados demonstram que a técnica de elaboração e o uso de declarações estão bem difundidos e aceitos, havendo espaço para aperfeiçoamentos.
Fake news, pós-verdade e os limites (ou desafios) da opinião pública na sociedade da plataforma
Authors: Pozobon Rejane de Oliveira , Kegler Bruno
Published: March 2021

O artigo traz uma reflexão sobre a produção da opinião pública na sociedade de plataformas, apontando como os fenômenos das fake news e da pós-verdade incidem sobre esse processo. Para tanto, traça um panorama da lógica comunicativa vigente e aciona o conceito de opinião pública para pensar as especificidades e as nuances do debate público em plataformas on-line.