bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of the Verbascum Thapsus on Episiotomy Wound Healing in Nulliparous Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Taleb Sahar , Saeedi Maryam
Published: February 2021

Background: The pain and discomfort caused by episiotomy affect the quality of life of the mothers, so rapid and complete repair of the episiotomy is very important. Due to the effective ingredients of Verbascum Thapsus, it has been used since ancient times to treat wounds. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Verbascum Thapsus on episiotomy wound healing. Methods: The study was designed as a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial. Ninety-three primiparous women who referred to Fatemeh Zahra Hospital in Saveh in 2015 were randomly divided into two groups of intervention (Verbascum Thapsus) and control (placebo). Both groups covered the episiotomy wound twice a day for 10 days with 2 cm of prescribed creams. Wound healing was assessed using the REEDA scale before the intervention and on days 1,3 and 10 after the intervention.Results: Before the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference in terms of demographic characteristics, obstetrics and REEDA scores between the two groups (p <0.05). The mean scores of REEDA on days 1 and 3 in the intervention group was better than the control group but was not statistically significant. However, on the tenth day after the intervention, the mean scores of REEDA were significantly better in the Verbascum group than the placebo (p = 0.01). Conclusions: According to the results of this study, it seems that Verbascum Thapsus is effective in repairing episiotomy wounds. The researchers hope that the results of this study can provide the clinical evidence for the use of this herbal medicine in the wound healing process. Trial registration: this study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) with the code “IRCT201404073106N15” on 02/12/2015
Stereological Evidence of Non-Selective Hippocampal Neurodegeneration, Growth Factors Depletion, and Behavioral Deficit Following Short-Term Bilateral Adrenalectomy in Wistar Rats 
Authors: Hamadi Naserddine , Deniz Ömür , Issa Ahlam Abi , Amir Naheed , Minhas Saeed , Madjid Nather , Khelifi-Touhami Fatima , Kaplan Süleyman , Adem Abdu
Published: February 2021

In the current study we investigated the impact of short-term adrenalectomy on hippocampal neurons of Wistar rats. In addition, the underlying mechanism(s) of degeneration in these neurons was investigated by measuring the levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 and β-nerve growth factor. Moreover, we investigated the cognitive behavior in these rats. The stereological counting in the hippocampus revealed a significant neuronal death in the dentate gyrus and CA3, but not in the CA2 and CA1, area 7 and 14 days post adrenalectomy. The ultrastructural examinations revealed degenerated and degenerating neurons only in the dentate as well as CA4, and CA3 areas over the course of 3, 7 and 14 days. The levels of IGF-1 were significantly decreased in the hippocampus of ADX rats 12 h post adrenalectomy and lasted over the course of two weeks. However, β-NGF was significantly reduced in ADX rats only at 14 days postoperatively. Using passive avoidance test we found a cognitive deficit in the ADX compared to the sham operated rats over time. In conclusion, both granule and pyramidal cells were degenerated in the hippocampus following short-term adrenalectomy. The early depletion of IGF-1 might play a role in the hippocampal neuronal degeneration. Consequently, the loss of the hippocampal neurons after adrenalectomy leads to cognitive deficits.
The Spread of COVID-19 Increases With Individual Mobility and Depends on Political Leaning
Authors: Parker Chris , Mejia Jorge , Pestilli Franco
Published: February 2021

The implementation of social distancing policies is key to reducing the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic. However, their effectiveness ultimately depends on human behavior. In the United States, compliance with social distancing policies has widely varied thus far during the pandemic. But what drives such variability? Through six open datasets, including actual human mobility, we estimated the association between mobility and the growth rate of COVID-19 cases across 3,107 U.S. counties, generalizing previous reports. In addition, data from the 2016 U.S. presidential election was used to measure how the association between mobility and COVID-19 growth rate differed based on voting patterns. A significant association between political leaning and the COVID-19 growth rate was measured. Our results demonstrate that political orientation may inform models predicting the impact of policies in reducing the spread of COVID-19.
In vivo gene editing of outer hair cells prevents progressive hearing loss in a dominant-negative KCNQ4 murine model
Authors: Noh Byunghwa , Rim John Hoon , Gopalappa Ramu , Lin Haiyue , Kim Kyu Min , Gee Heon Yung , Choi Jae Young , Kim Hyongbum Henry , Jung Jinsei
Published: February 2021

Adult-onset hearing loss (AHL)—including presbycusis—caused by outer hair cell (OHC) degeneration is the most common sensorial disorder. Despite the high prevalence of AHL and wide therapeutic window, no targeted therapy is currently available. Here, we generated a mouse model harboring Kcnq4W276S/+ to recapitulate DFNA2, a common genetic form of progressive hearing loss caused by degenerating OHCs. By comprehensively optimizing guide RNAs, Cas9s, vehicles, and delivery routes, we found that in vivo gene editing using dual adeno-associated virus packaging in OHCs via the round window membrane significantly improved auditory function. We developed a new technique using live-cell imaging to measure the membrane potential of the OHCs and demonstrated that our approach resulted in more hyperpolarized, steady-state OHCs, indicative of elevated KCNQ4 channel activity. These findings can help develop targeted therapy for AHL and support the use of CRISPR-based gene therapy to rectify defects in OHCs.
Virtue and Care Ethics & Humanism in Medical Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Doukas David , Ozar David , Darragh Martina , Carter Brian , Stout Nate , DeGroot Janet
Published: February 2021

PURPOSE: This scoping review explores how virtue and care ethics are incorporated into curricular design and how these factors relate to the development of humanistic patient care. METHOD: Our team identified citations in the literature emphasizing virtue ethics and care ethics (in PubMed, NLM Catalog, WorldCat, EthicsShare, EthxWeb, Globethics.net, Philosopher’s Index, and ProQuest Central) lending themselves to constructs of humanism pedagogy. Our exclusion criteria consisted of non-English articles, those not addressing virtue and care ethics and humanism in medical pedagogy, and those not addressing aspects of character in health ethics. We examined in a stepwise fashion whether citations: 1) Contained definitions of virtue and care ethics; 2) Implemented virtue and care ethics in health care pedagogy; and 3) Evidenced patient-directed caregiver humanism. RESULTS: 796 citations were identified, 88 intensively reviewed, and the final 25 analyzed in-depth. By first identifying multiple key themes with subsequent translation in virtue and care ethics (reciprocal translation), we developed a line of argument synthesis utilizing nine themes associated with virtue/care ethics, curricula, and humanism education. CONCLUSIONS: This research identified a line of argument synthesis regarding how virtue and care ethics can potentially promote humanism and identified themes that facilitate and impede this mission.
How One Treats Lateral Epicondylitis - A Survey Among Brazilian Orthopedists
Authors: Lazarini Rafael Fuchs , Zan Renato Aroca , Belotti João Carlos , Filho Ildeu Afonso de Almeida , Centenaro Luiz Fernando Sartori , Matsunaga Fabio Teruo , Tamaoki Marcel Jun Sugawara
Published: February 2021

Background:

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) or tennis elbow is the most common elbow painful condition. It affects around 1 to 3% of adults. There are various possibilities of treatment described in the literature, without evidence to support a gold standard management protocol. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate how the Brazilian orthopedist diagnoses and treats lateral epicondylitis, to compare these results with the available evidence.
Methods:

This is an observational, analytical, cross-sectional study. A questionnaire has been prepared for information to the participants and with eight specific questions (2 on diagnosis and 6 on treatment). These had been answered voluntarily by participants at 3 major congresses of orthopedists in Brazil in 2018. The results were analyzed in accordance with the overall number of responses, and were evaluated among groups according to subspecialty.
Results:

We obtained a total of 501 questionnaires. Of these, 33 were excluded. The mean age was 38.67 years. The majority of respondents (91%) were male. We obtained 26.7% from specialists in hand surgery (Hand group), 36.5% from subspecialists in shoulder and elbow (Shoulder and Elbow group), and 36.8% were from generalists in orthopedics or from other subspecialties (General Orthopedists group). For diagnosis, 24.4% have not initially requested any imaging method. The most requested exam was ultrasonography (54.9%). The most prominent indication for initial treatment was physical therapy. For refractory cases, 78.3% of the respondents prefer doing a local infiltration. The most commonly used substance for local infiltrations is corticosteroids (89.6%). With respect to the surgical treatment option, 75.8% of those who recommend it prefer open techniques and 24.2% arthroscopic treatment. Of the total respondents, 12.8% do not recommend surgical treatment for LE.
Conclusion:

Most orthopedists begin the treatment of lateral epicondylitis with the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and an indication of rest, but there is great variability between their recommendations. The use of corticosteroids for infiltration remains the main choice among Brazilian orthopedists, although evidence shows a better effect in the short term and a worse effect in the medium and long term, compared to other treatments.
Different Head Group Dependence on The Lipid Thermodynamic Property of Myelin Basic Protein in the Lipid Monolayer
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Ming , Sun Runguang
Published: February 2021

The interaction between the role of 18.5 KDa myelin basic protein (MBP) isoform and phospholipids has been thought to maintain the stability and compactness of the myelin sheath structure. In this study, we describe the statistical thermodynamic theory of different concentrations’ effects on MBP in the major myelin lipid (1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC), 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE)，and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-L-serine (POPS)) monolayers at the air/subphase interface via Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) technique. A simple statistical mechanical theory is established that predicts the interaction between proteins and phosphate head groups at low surface pressures and the second virial coefficient dependences for the PC, PE, and PS head groups are illustrated. In addition, the surface pressure(π)-mean molecular area(mma) curves were also analyzed using two-dimensional virial equation of state (2D-VES). The positively charged showed that MBP may integrate into different lipid monolayers via hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions, which was found to be consistent with AFM observations of domain and aggregate structures as well as with changes in the surface morphology induced by MBP. These analyses pertaining to membrane structure will provide better insight into membrane modeling systems, especially the interaction between membrane molecules.
Metformin Attenuates Renal Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis via Upgrading Autophagy in the Early Stage of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Wang Fengzhen , Sun Dong , Sun Haihan , Zuo Bangjie , Shi Kun , Zhang Xin , Zhang Chi
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study was to compare the role of metformin on tubulointerstitial fibrosis (TIF) in different stages of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in vivo and evaluate its mechanism in high-glucose-treated Renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) in vitro. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were used to establish model of DN, then the changes of biochemical indicators and body weight were measured. The degree of renal fibrosis was quantified via histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, and immunoblot. The underlying relationship between autophagy and DN was analyzed and the cellular regulatory mechanism of metformin on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was detected. Metformin markedly improved renal function and showed histological restoration of renal tissues especially in the early stage of DN, with a significant improvement of autophagy and a low expression of fibrotic biomarkers (Fibronectin and Collagen I) in renal tissue. RTECs under hyperglycemic conditions exhibited inactivation of p-AMPK and activation of EMT. But the promotion of AMPK activated by metformin significantly improved renal autophagic function, inhibited the EMT of RTECs, attenuated TIF, so as to effectively prevent or delay the course of DN. This evidence provided theoretical and experimental basis for the following research on the potential clinical usefulness of metformin for the treatment of diabetic TIF.
Behavior Change and Skills Retention With an Action Record After Ultrasonography Training
Authors: Yamada Toru , Ehara Jun , Funakoshi Hiraku , Endo Keita , Kitano Yuka , Takemura Yousuke
Published: February 2021

Background

In simulation training, behavior change (Kirkpatrick’s level 3) is more important than learning improvement (Kirkpatrick’s level 2). However, few studies have evaluated behavior change because it is difficult to assess objectively. Skills retention is another challenge. We evaluated whether keeping a record of the number of ultrasound (US) examinations performed after a simulation course led to positive behavior changes and improved skills retention.
Methods

A 2-day point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) course in cardiac US, lung US, lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) US, and abdominal US was held for Japanese nurse practitioners and trainees in 2018 and 2019. Participants kept a record of the number of US examinations they performed for 3 months before and 3 months after the course. The number of US exams performed was grouped into six categories. All participants underwent pre-course, immediate post-course, and 4-month post-course testing to assess image interpretation skills, image acquisition skills, and confidence.
Results

Thirty-three participants from 21 facilities completed the program. The median number of US exams performed during the 3-month period after the course increased significantly from before the course (P < 0.001). The median number of each US examination type (cardiac, lung, lower extremity DVT, and abdominal) after the course statistically significantly increased compared with before the course (P < 0.001). The immediate post-course and 4-month follow-up test scores for image interpretation skills, image acquisition skills, and confidence were statistically significantly higher than the pre-course test scores (P < 0.001). The results of the 4-month follow-up test showed no decline compared with immediate post-course scores.
Conclusions

Keeping a record after a POCUS simulation course increased the number of US examinations and improved knowledge, skills, and confidence. Keeping a record after simulation training led to positive behavior change and improved skills retention.
The Effects of Internet Addiction on the Academic Performance of Medical Students at Omdurman Islamic University: An Online Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Hamza Salih Boushra , Abdalla Yassin A. , Alkabashi Tibyan Hassan Mustafa , Mustafa Ahmed A. M. , Muhmmed Khadija Ala Abdelmaqsud , Husain Nazik Elmaliaka O.S
Published: February 2021

Background:In general, the emergence of new technologies such as the internet, social networks and providing opportunities to facilitate and improve global communications quality have created some threats, as Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD), which is an emerging psychological problem across the globe. Young defined it as “an individual’s inability to control his or her use of the internet, which eventually causes psychological, social, school, and/or work difficulties in a person’s life”. Students are among the most critical internet and social networks, particularly during the coronavirus recent pandemic. The prevalence of internet addiction and its association with academic performance among Sudanese medical students has not been discussed yet. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of internet addiction on medical students’ academic performance. Methods:This study was an observational descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on medical students at Omdurman Islamic University in Sudan from 321 sample size by stratified random technique. Data were collected using a questionnaire that contains four sections; the last one is the Internet Addiction Test (IAT), a 20-item scale that measures the presence and severity of internet addiction, developed by Young. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 24. A P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results:Out of 321 medical students, 186 (57.9%) were females, and 135 (42.1%) were males, with no general differences regarding the addiction score. Social media was the leading platform for internet use purposes (88%), mean internet addiction score was 47.7; most of the respondents (55.8%) fit into the moderate-level addiction. There is an association between the duration of internet time consumption and the IAT score, with 5-6 hour/day scoring the highest (mean 50.1 ± 14.3) (P-value 0.001). There is a significant association between platforms that consume most of the participant time and IAT score, with games scoring the highest (IAT mean 56.4 ± 15) (P-value 0.001). There is an insignificant negative correlation between Internet Addiction Test (IAT) grade and CGPA (p-value 0.07).Conclusion:The mean internet addiction score is 47.7, and most of the respondents (55.8%) show moderate-level addiction. The Internet Addiction Test’s application to medical students’ sample concerning the academic performance found no significant association between Internet Addiction Test score and CGPA score.
WITHDRAWN: The Amelioration Role of Acacia Senegal on the Systemic Oxidative Stress and Necroinflammation Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride in Rats
Authors: Habashy Noha , Abu-Serie Marwa , Hamouda Asmaa
Published: February 2021

Acacia Senegal (AS, Gum Arabic) is a polysaccharide with several potential health benefits that is recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agency as a secure dietary fibre. The present research evaluated the systemic oxidative and necroinflammatory stress induced by CCl4 administration and the alleviating effect of AS aqueous extract (ASE, 7.5 g/Kg b.w.). The results demonstrated the presence of certain phenolic compounds in ASE as well as its in vitro potent scavenging ability to ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), NO, and lipid peroxide radicals. Also, the outcomes observed an improvement in the CCl4-induced liver, lung, brain, and spleen toxicity by reducing ROS, lipid peroxidation, NO, and the pro-inflammatory mediators. Moreover, the TAC (total antioxidant capacity) as well as the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants were significantly upregulated in these organs after the treatment with ASE. These results were confirmed by enhancing the morphological features of each organ. Therefore, ASE can ameliorate the systemic toxicity induced in rats by CCl4 due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, which is related to its phytochemical composition.
In-Silico Design of Envelope based Multi-epitope Vaccine Candidate Against Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus
Authors: Arumugam Sathishkumar
Published: February 2021

Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV) causing common tick-borne hemorrhagic fever in south India, there is no approved anti-viral or efficacious vaccine against this disease. Recent KFDV spread into new geographic locations gives urgent call for development of new vaccine and drugs. In this study, we adapted in-silico approach to design multi-epitope subunit vaccine for KFDV. Conserved regions of KFDV envelope protein sequences reported during 1962 to 2016 were identified. Eight different immuno-informatics tools were employed to predict the linear B-cell and T-cell epitopes, high scored and/or multi-immunogenic epitopes were linked together and obtained two vaccine candidates (VC1 and VC2). Obtained vaccine candidates were found to be non-allergic and had good antigenic properties, also gives the cross-protection against to Alkhurma Hemorrhagic Fever virus (AHFV). The 3D structures of vaccine candidates were built and validated. Docking of vaccine candidates with toll-like receptor-8 (TLR-8) was performed by Hex 8.0 and Cluspro, highest binding energy observed between VC2 and TLR8. JCAT sever confirmed cloning efficiency of both vaccine constructs and in-silico cloning into pET30a (+) vector by SnapGene suggests successful translation of vaccine constructs. In this study, multi-epitope vaccine candidates were designed and validated, it paves the way for up-coming vaccine and diagnostic kit development.
Anti-PD-1 Inhibitor for the Treatment of Esophageal Cancer Refractory or Intolerant to Previous Chemotherapy: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Liao Guixiang , Zhao Zhihong , Zheng Tao , Khan Muhammad , Yan Maosheng , Li Xianming
Published: February 2021

Background

Clinical studies have suggested that PD-1 inhibitor is useful in the management of advanced Esophageal Cancer. However, the efficacy and safety of Anti-PD-1 inhibitor for the treatment of advanced Esophageal Cancer is inconclusive. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis aiming to comprehensively explore the effectiveness and safety of the therapeutic effects of PD-1 inhibitors on patients with advanced esophageal cancer.
Methods & Materials:

The PubMed (since its inception), Cochrane library (since its inception), EMBASE (since its inception),and ClinicalTrials.gov (since its inception) were searched till 1st December 2020 for the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effectiveness and safety of PD-1 inhibitors for patients with esophageal cancer. Two investigators independently performed study selection, data extraction and assessment of the methodological quality. RevMan 5.3 was applied statistical analysis.
Results

Three RCTs were included for this meta-analysis ,with a total of 1477 patients. Compared with chemotherapy, PD-1 inhibitors had superior objective response rates(Odds ratio(OR) = 14.96, 95% confidence interval (CI):0.47,476.97; P = 0.13). PD-1 inhibitors group had better overall survival compared to chemotherapy group(Hazard ratio(HR):0.80,95% CI:0.70,0.91,P = 0.0007) .The progression-free survival (HR:0.94,95% CI:0.71,1.26,P = 0.69) were similar between the two groups. The grade 3 or more adverse events rate were lower in the PD-1 inhibitors group as compared to those of chemotherapy group(OR:0.25,95% CI:0.13,0.46,P < 0.0001).
Conclusions

Our study indicated that PD-1 inhibitors are efficacious and safe for the management of EC refractory or intolerant to previous chemotherapy.
Optimization of Pectinase Activity From Locally Isolated Fungi and Agrowastes
Authors: Ametefe George D. , Oluwadamilare Lemo A. , James Ifeoma C. , Ibidapo Olubunmi I. , Ofoegbu Vera O. , Fashola Folake , Orji Frank A. , Iweala Emeka E.J. , Chinedu Shalom N.
Published: February 2021

Background: Pectin enzymes are biocatalysts that degrade pectin into simpler forms. Fermentation is the commonly utilized method for pectinase production. Prior to optimization of pectinase activity, preliminary findings were undertaken to select the best screened microbe (Aspergillus niger), agrowastes and extraction solvents. Solid-state fermentation was employed in the study (optimization process), utilizing the Box-Behnken design in Design-Expert software package version 12.0.3. Results: The results showed 0.1 molar sodium chloride as the best extraction solvent, with the activity higher than the citrate buffer. However, pectinase activity obtained with distilled water was significantly (p<0.05) lower than 0.1 molar sodium chloride. For the substrates employed in the study, the citrus (orange) peel had the highest pectinase activity of ≈0.40 mg per ml. The activity of citrus peels was significantly higher than the activities from each of corn cob, banana peel, wheat bran, Thaumatococcus danielli fruit wastes and Thaumatococcus danielli leaves. A significant increase (p<0.05) in pectinase activity was also obtained with Thaumatococcus danielli fruit wastes relative to Thaumatococcus danielli leaves. Pichia kudriavzevii strain F2-T429-5 and Pichia kudriavzevii strain CY902 have been identified to complement for pectinase production. From the results obtained, the optimum conditions for pectinase production were approximately 5.87 days of fermentation; pH of 3.90; at 21.24 oC; particle size of 0.06-inch; inoculum volume of 1.00 ml, and agitation time (for pectinase extraction) at 11.43 minutes. Optimisation of the selected conditions using the Box-Behnken design and analysis as a statistical tool resulted in a higher activity. Conclusion: Local production of pectinase would help in reducing hunger through local job creation, thereby positively contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A randomised controlled trial of a cognitive-behavioural preventive intervention for the children of parents with depression: short-term effects on symptoms and possible mechanisms
Authors: Löchner Johanna , Starman-Wöhrle Kornelija , Takano Keisuke , Engelmann Lina , Voggt Alessandra , Loy Fabian , Bley Mirjam , Winogradow Dana , Hämmerle Stephanie , Neumeier Esther , Wermuth Inga , Schmitt Katharina , Oort Frans , Schulte-Körne Gerd , Platt Belinda
Published: February 2021

Objective Parental depression is one of the biggest risk factors for youth depression. This parallel randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of the German version of the family-group-cognitive-behavioral (FGCB) preventive intervention for children of depressed parents.Methods Families with i) a parent who has experienced depression and ii) a healthy child aged 8–17 years (mean = 11.63; 53% female) were randomly allocated (blockwise; stratified by child age and parental depression) to the 12-session intervention (EG; n = 50) or no intervention (CG; usual care; n = 50). Self-reported (unblinded) outcomes were assessed immediately after the intervention (6 months). We hypothesized that CG children would show a greater increase in self-reported symptoms of depression (DIKJ) and internalizing/ externalizing disorder (YSR/CBCL) over time compared to the EG. Intervention effects on secondary outcome variables emotion regulation (FEEL-KJ), attributional style (ASF-KJ), knowledge of depression and parenting style (ESI) were also expected. Study protocol (Belinda Platt, Pietsch, Krick, Oort, & Schulte-Körne, 2014) and trial registration (NCT02115880) reported elsewhere.Results We found significant intervention effects on self-reported internalising (ηp²=0.05) and externalising (ηp²=0.08) symptoms but not depressive symptoms or parent-reported psychopathology. Parental depression severity did not modify these effects. Both groups showed equally improved knowledge of depression (ηp²=0.06). There were no intervention effects on emotion regulation, attributional style or parenting style.Conclusion The German version of the FGCB intervention is effective in reducing symptoms of general psychopathology. There was no evidence that the mechanisms targeted in the intervention changed within the intervention period.
Role and Mechanisms of Probiotics in Regulating the ROS/JNK Signaling Pathway in the Pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.
Authors: Xu HuiYuan , Yang LeiLei , Huang YuMei , Li ChangPing
Published: February 2021

This study was aimed to investigate the impact of probiotics on regulating the ROS/JNK signaling pathway their underlying mechanism of action in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. For this purpose, male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups: control, probiotics, and model groups. Methionine and choline deficiency (MCD) diets were fed for four weeks to establish a NAFLD mouse model. Serum levels of ALT, AST, TC, and TG were detected. Moreover, the pathological changes of the liver and ileum tissues were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in liver tissues was determined. In addition, the levels of D-lactic acid and plasma and small intestine diamine oxidase were measured to evaluate the effects of probiotics on the intestinal tract of NAFLD mice. The expression levels of p-JNK, Bax, and Caspase-3 were established to analyze the regulatory mechanism of probiotics on the JNK signaling pathway. We found that probiotics improve liver function, repair intestinal barrier and significantly suppressed oxidative stress, JNK phosphorylation. Moreover, the application of probiotics regulated the expression of signaling pathway-related proteins and promoted the intestinal barrier function repair and decreased intestinal permeability. The data above suggest that probiotics alleviate NAFLD, whose mechanism might be associated with the regulation of ROS/JNK signaling pathway and the suppression of oxidative stress and apoptosis.
BSS: A Brokering Model for Service Selection using Integrated Weighting approach in Federated Cloud
Authors: Chauhan Sameer Singh , Pilli Emmanuel S , Joshi R C
Published: February 2021

Federated Cloud is a multi-cloud platform that integrates various cloud providers either through standardization or an agreement. The services offered by different federation members possess different access patterns, similar characteristics, varied performance levels, different costs, etc. This heterogeneity creates a challenging task for users to decide a suitable service as per their application requirements. Cloud broker, an inter-mediator is required in service and federation management to help both service provider and users. Cloud broker has to store all the information related to services and feedback of users on those services in order to provide the best services to end-users. Brokering model for service selection (BSS) has been proposed which employs integrated weighting approach in cloud service selection. Subjective and objective weights of QoS attributes are combined to compute integrated total weight. Subjective weight is obtained from users’ feedback on QoS attributes of a cloud service while objective weight is computed from benchmark tested data of cloud services. Users' feedback and preferences given to QoS parameters are employed in subjective weight computation. Objective weight is computed using Shannon's Entropy method. Total weight is obtained by combining subjective and objective weights. BSS method is employed to rank cloud services. Simulation with a case study on real dataset has been done to validate the effectiveness of BSS. The obtained results demonstrate the consistency of model for handling rank reversal problem and provides better execution time than other state-of-the art solutions.
Psychometric Properties of the Abbreviated Version of the Health-Related Quality of Life (SF-8) Among Diabetes and Non-Diabetes Iranian Old People
Authors: Namjoo Shamsedin , Mirzaei Masoud , Foroughan Mahshid , Harouni Gholamreza Ghaedamini
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe current study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Iranian version of SF-8 using a large sample of elderly in two different groups (diabetes and non-diabetes elderly).Method1901 older adults were recruited through a two-level clustered random sampling method, according to WHO STEP guidelines. In order to test reliability, the internal consistency and test_re_test were used. Convergent validity was evaluated by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI). An independent sample t-test was used to assess the significance of differences across demographic groups.FindingsThe Cronbach for SF-8 and its subscales were between 0.79 to 0.85 (physical and mental health). Result of test_re_test indicated appropriate reliability of SF-8. The result of CFA indicated that the 2‐factor model had a good fit to the data for diabetes and non-diabetes groups of older people (GFI=0.936, CFI=0.940, NFI=0.938, IFI=0.941,RMSEA=0.1). The SF-8 also had acceptable convergent validity.ConclusionThe present study is the first to confirm the traditional 2-factor structure of SF-8 using a large sample of Iranian older individuals. The results showed that the Iranian version of SF-8 is a reliable and valid tool for measuring HRQOL among Iranian older adults ( including diabetes and non-diabetes elderly).
Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals PTBP1 as a Key Molecular Signature of Sciatic Nerve Injury Recovery
Authors: Chai Zijia , Fu Jinjin , Yang Zhe , Sun Yi E.
Published: February 2021

Background: Peripheral nerves control motor, sensory, and autonomic functions, so injury can seriously affect a patient's quality of life. There have been studies that have shown that the repair factors are different at different ages, and we have identified a repair hub gene that plays a key role throughout the entire age group. Methods: From Gene Expression Omnibus database GSE4090, mice of 2 and 24 months of age after sciatic nerve injury were selected from mice transcriptome data of differentially expressed genes in common, and the hub genes were then determined using protein-protein network and MCODE analysis, DAVID biological process, molecular function, and cell component analysis, and the miRWalk analysis of hub genes was performed to verify the key molecule. In mice aged eight weeks of sciatic 2 nerve clamps damage building, on days 0, 1, 4, and 7, sciatic nerve motor and sensory function were evaluated, and sciatic nerve immunofluorescence test was performed to verify PTBP1 expression. The continuous data were expressed as the mean ±SD. An independent t-test was used to compare two groups. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Bioinformatics analysis showed that PTBP1 is one of the key molecules in mouse sciatic nerve repair after injury. The immunofluorescence test verified that the number of positive cells reached a maximum value of 30.6 ±6.4/ROI on day 7 after injury and a minimum value of 17.4 ±7.0/ROI in the control group (p<0.001). However, the percentage of PTBP1 positive cells reached a peak of 90.8 ±16.9% at the early stage of injury, i.e., the first day, and then dropped to a minimum of 75.7 ±8.9% on the seventh day in the animal experiment as the repair time gradually increased (p<0.05). Conclusions: PTBP1 plays a key role in the repair of sciatic nerve injury, providing a new strategy for clinical treatment of patients of all ages.
COVID-19 Endangers the Health of Society by Disrupting Social Participation, Home Integrations, and Productive Activities.
Authors: Monfared Elyas , Vahedi Mohsen , Haghgoo Hojjat Allah
Published: February 2021

ObjectiveProper social participation and involvement in the daily activities of life increases the feeling of attachment, and increases a person's sense of worth, belonging, and dependence on society. Lack of social communication leads to anxiety, loneliness, depression, panic, mental. While COVID-19 has become a pandemic, public health measures to cut off human-to-human transmission may include quarantine and social isolation. Due to social distancing and quarantine practices, people's participation in many areas of social life and daily activities has been disrupted. The purpose of this study is to provide insight into the effects of the Covid 19 epidemic on integration into home activities, integration into the community and integration into productive activities, and overall determination of social participation during this epidemic.MethodsIn June 2020, the Social Integration Questionnaire (CIQ), which measures integration at home, integration in the community, and integration into purposeful and productive activities, was transcribed with the required demographic information in a web-based format. A total of 461 people (mean age 36.86±5.8 years) completed the social integration questionnaire in a cross-sectional study. The effects of Covid-19 on social interaction were then calculated by analyzing CIQ scores before and after the outbreak of COVID-19 and the data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22.ResultsComparing the participants score in the Community Integration Questionnaire before and after the COVID-19 pandemic showed that COVID-19 reduced home integration (from 4.6909±2.84 to 3.5938±2.80 , t= 11.151 p <0.000), social integration (from 8.6529±1.98 to 6.1150±2.10, t= 25.440, p <0.000), integration into productive and purposeful activities (from 5.3145±1.70 to 3.5098±2.02, t= 23.226, p <0.000) and total CIQ test score (from 18.6584±4.02 to 13.2185±4.56 , t= 29.022, p <0.000). These findings show how all three CIQ domains and their total scores decreased significantly after the outbreak of COVID-19.ConclusionAfter the COVID-19 epidemic, people's social life is severely disrupted. The direct and indirect psychological and social effects of COVID- 19 are widespread and can affect mental health. Trial Registration: This study was registered and approved by the Ethic Committee of the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IR.USWR.REC.1399.228).
High Mean Arterial Pressure is Associated with Better Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Subjective Memory Complaints
Authors: Fung Ada Wai Tung , Lee Allen Ting Chun , Ma Sukling
Published: February 2021

Background: Hypertension has been shown to be a major risk factor for cognitive decline, but little is known about its association with subjective memory complaints (SMC) in late life. The study is to examine if hypertension is associated with SMC and to explore which blood pressure (BP) is more important in this group.Methods: 497 non-demented older adults aged 60 years or older were interviewed. Hypertension is defined as a BP higher than 130/80 mmHg or on antihypertensive medication. SMC are measured by a validated 5-item Abbreviate Memory Inventory for the Chinese (AMIC) assessing subjective memory deficits in the past month. Cognitive performance was measured by a neurocognitive battery assessing global cognitive function and executive function (EF). Linear regression was performed to examine how different BP associate with AMIC and cognitive performance with adjustment for sociodemographic and physical factors.Results: Hypertensive group had a lower AMIC than normal control (t=-2.1, p=.033). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) (B=-.008, 95% CI -.014 – -.002, p=.006) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) (B=-.011, 95% CI -.020– -.002 p=.014) were associated with AMIC. SBP was only associated global cognitive function (B= .008, 95% CI .000 – .015, p=.038), but MAP was associated with global cognitive function (B=.017, 95% CI .006 – .029, p=.003) and EF (B= 0.16, 95% CI .001 – .030, p=.036). Conclusions: High MAP was associated with better cognitive function in older adults with SMC. The findings highlight the need to be cautious when managing BP in older adults yet not to compromise their current cognitive function.
MiR-182-5p Promotes The Metastasis and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer By Targeting EPAS1
Authors: Yang Wenxiao , Yin Yinan , Bi Ling , Wang Yichao , Xu Ling , Jiao Lijing
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) is associated with the pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the mechanism underlying miR-182-5p regulation of NSCLC progression is largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the expression levels of miR-182-5p in human NSCLC and its funvtion in lung cancer cells. MethodsThe Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data set was utilized to investigate the association between miR-182-5p expression and the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of NSCLC patients. The target genes of miR-182-5p were identified using the prediction tools PITA, miRmap, microT, miRanda, PicTar, and TargetScan. Transwell assays was used to explore the potential function of miR-182-5p in lung cancer cells. Luciferase reporter assay were performed to analyze the regulation of putative target of miR-182-5p and western blot assays were used to validate the luciferase results.ResultsmiR-182-5p was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and acted as an independent prognostic factor of tumor recurrence in NSCLC patients. Functionally, overexpression of miR-182-5p promoted lung cancer cell migration and invasion. Genome-wide gene expression analysis and luciferase report assay revealed that Endothelial PAS Domain-containing protein 1 (EPAS1) was a direct target of miR-182-5p. EPAS1 exhibited a negative correlation with miR-182-5p expression in NSCLC tissues. Univariate and multivariate survival analysis identified EPAS1 as an independent prognostic factor for overall survival and tumor recurrence in NSCLCConclusionsThese findings demonstrate that miR-182-5p functions as a tumor promoter in NSCLC progression by targeting EPAS1. It is, therefore, a potential indicator of tumor recurrence in NSCLC patients.
A Novel Design of Electro-Hydraulic Driven Active Powered Ankle-Foot Prosthesis
Authors: Huang Qitao , Li Bowen , Jia Fei
Published: February 2021

This paper presents the design and control of a novel full active powered ankle prosthesis driven by electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA) to improve amputee gait during the level-ground walking in full-time gait cycle. A 100W brushless DC motor driving a 0.92 cc/rev bi-directional gear pump serves as the power kernel. An elastic element is configured in series with the hydraulic cylinder. With this architecture, better power characteristic, ability of energy storage and passive compliance are obtained to revive sound human characteristic as much as possible. To smooth the gait pattern, a neuromuscular model with Hill-type muscle tendon structure is introduced into the control system scheduled by finite state machine which was designed to carry on different control strategy during individual gait phase.
Malaria Data Analysis Using Routine Surveillance Data, Sunyani Municipality, Ghana, 2020
Authors: Mohammed Abdul Gafaru , Tamal Christopher Sunkwa , Odikro Magdalene Akos , Bandoh Delia Akosua , Noora Charles Lwanga , Quarshie Prince Romeo , Afari Edwin , Kenu Ernest
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Malaria is endemic in Ghana, accounting for about 40% of all OPD diagnosis. Data on malaria is routinely collected as part of the IDSR monthly reporting forms. Sunyani municipality recorded 56,540 malaria cases in 2016 with about 35% of the cases occurring in children under five years of age. We analyzed malaria surveillance data to identify the distribution of malaria cases by person, place and time and determine the timeliness and completeness of malaria report submission in the municipality.Methods: We analyzed malaria surveillance data in Sunyani municipality reported between 2015 and 2019 from the District Health Management Information System II. We calculated morbidity and mortality rates of cases by person and estimated proportion of cases by sub-districts. We performed trend analysis and calculated disease threshold levels. We presented the findings using tables and figures.Results: Of 639,361 malaria cases suspected, 93.5% (597,512/639,361) were tested, of which 49.4% (295,458/597,512) was positive. Females accounted for 55.7% (164,436/295,458) of the morbidity. Children <5 years recorded the highest proportion, 29.9% (88,135/295,458) of cases in the municipality. The case fatality rate was 3.7% (18/484) and 1.4% (7/484) for persons under age five and over age five, respectively. Abesim (6,276.03 per 10,000) recorded the highest number of cases, and the least cases were in New Dormaa (1,890.97 per 10,000). The majority of malaria cases were in May and October of each year. Antwi-krom recorded the highest rates of completeness and timeliness of 41.9% and 40.0% respectively. Conclusion: More females were diagnosed with malaria and children <5 years recorded the highest proportion of cases in the municipality. Abesim recorded the highest proportion of malaria cases during the period. High patterns of malaria transmissions occurred during months of high rainfalls. None of the sub-districts met the WHO target for timeliness and completeness of report submission. The NMCP should consider interventions such as SMC among children under five, in the Sunyani municipality.
Thermal Waters of Azerbai̇jan – Sources of Renewable Alternati̇ve Energy
Authors: Gadjiev Tair , Babaev nariman , Rustamov Yasin , Karimov Vagif
Published: February 2021

Azerbaijan that is situated in the east of the Caucasian region of the Alpine folding belt is rich in not only oil, gas, and mineral reserves, but in unique mineral water deposits as well. There is over 1000 mineral and thermal water deposits in Azerbaijan. The majority of these deposits have not been exploited yet. These waters can be used for therapeutic purposes as well as an alternative source of renewable energy. This article is dedicated to ways to solve this problem.There are a high production rate (40-50 lit/sec) aquifers with water temperatures close to 100°C at depth of 3000m in Neogene and Paleogene rocks.Geochemical and hydrogeological properties of the mineral and thermal waters of Azerbaijan have separately been analyzed in the article for various regions and specific proposals on their efficient use have been put forward. Thermal waters can be used in heating civil and industrial premises (T=40-600C). Electrical energy can be produced from waters with temperatures above 800C (Jarli, Precaspian-Guba, etc.). The presence of thermal waters distribution patterns in time and space associated with tectonic faults and magmatic processes has been proven from the scientific point of view.
Seroprevalence of Syphilis, HBV and Its Associated Risk Factors Among Pregnant Women Attending at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Authors: Wabe Yasin awol , Reda Dawit Yihdego , Ali Musa Mohammed
Published: February 2021

Background: Syphilis and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) share similar modes of transmission. Their occurrence during pregnancy has an adverse effect both on the fetus and pregnant women. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of syphilis and HBV among pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken from July to September 2019 in 290 pregnant women at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Gestational and socioeconomic data were collected using a questionnaire. Chromatographic kits were used to detect the presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibody against syphilis infection from the serum of study participants. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 22. Bivariate and multivariable analysis was employed to identify factors associated with seroprevalence of syphilis and HBV. Variables with a p-value of < 0.05 were considered as cut point to determine a significant association. Results: Seroprevalence of HBV and syphilis infection were found to be 4.5% and 2.4 % respectively. Having multiple sexual partner [AOR=3.99, 95%Cl= 1.20-13.38, p=0.025] was significantly associated with HBV infection. Conclusion: In the study the seroprevalence of HBV and syphilis is moderate; having multiple sexual partners was found to be significantly associated with the prevalence of HBV infection.