bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Annexin A1 is responsible for ursolic acid mediated anticancer effects on breast cancer stem cells by wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: fan shujun , Xu Ruixue , Zhang Han , Mao Jun , Zhang Qingqing , Lu Ying , Wang Mei , Wang Huaxin , Yu Xiaotang , Hou Zhenhuan , Sun Xu , Wei Yuanyi , Huang Yuhong , Wang Bo , Song Bo , Li Lianhong
Published: December 2020

Background

Ursolic acid (UA), a plant extract from traditional Chinese medicines as well as edible vegetables, exhibits a potent anticancer activity in various tumor cells. Annexin A1(AnxA1) is dysregulated and play a pivotal role in various tumor. However, the function of AnxA1 in breast cancer(BC) remains unclear.
Methods

Western blot, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(qRT- PCR), transwell, wound healing and immunofluorescence were used to study the biological features of AnxA1 in breast cancer. The stemness of cancer cells was assessed by sphere formation assay. CCK-8 and flow cytometry assay were used to detect the effects of ursolic acid on the growth, proliferation and apoptosis of breast cancer cells in vitro. A nude mice xenograft model was employed in vivo. The potential mechanism by which Ursolic acid regulates the biological behaviors of breast cancer stem cells through AnxA1 via the wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was tested by western blot, qRT- PCR and immunohistochemistry.
Results

AnxA1 was highly expressed in MDA-MB-231 cell line compared with MCF-7 cell line, Down-regulation of AnxA1 could reduce the mammosphere formation, inhibit EMT, decrease the ability of migration and invasion in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Ursolic acid can reduce the expression of AnxA1 and inhibit proliferation of breast cancer cells, stemness, EMT, migration and invasion, promote cell apoptosis of breast cancer cell. This studies suggest that the anticancer effects of AnxA1 knockdown and UA treatment may be realized by affecting the EMT process and the wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Conclusions

This research suggest that AnxA1 knockdown enhanced the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to UA, the combination of UA treatment and AnxA1 knockdown possesses multiple anti-tumor activities against breast cancer, as it, in particular, inhibited the cancer stem cell and attenuated EMT. Therefore, it is emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy to inhibit breast cancer.
Assessment of the Medical Students Preparedness and Willingness for Integration into a War-torn Healthcare System: The example of COVID-19 Pandemic Scenario
Authors: Alsuliman Tamim , Alasadi Lugien , Kasem Rahim Abo , Hawat Majd , Almansour Mohammad , Khalaf Ruba Al , Alhalabi Marwan
Published: December 2020

Background: The question about the role of the senior medical students in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic was raised after the serious shortage in healthcare workers faced by many healthcare systems. This research aimed to explore the ability of the final-year medical students to assist during COVID-19 in a war-torn health system.Methods: Final-year medical students in Syrian Universities were approached between 9th-17th April 2020 through an online questionnaire that assessed the students’ COVID-19-related medical knowledge (5-point score), clinical judgment (5-point score), preparedness and willingness to integrate in the healthcare facilities. An overall score of 10 points was built and multivariate analysis was conducted.Results: A total of 1764 responses were received. Valid responses were (1673) with 1199 (71.66%) responses from the final-year students. Of the latter, 728 (60.71%) scored 4 points or higher in the medical knowledge score (mean 3.69 points [SD 0.96]), while 298 (24.85%) scored 4 or higher in the clinical judgment score. Final-year students scored significantly higher than the fourth-year students in the clinical judgment score (mean 2.69 points [SD 1.12] vs 2.47 [1.15]; adjusted P=0.012). Nearly 72.4% of the final-year participants had an overall score of 7 points or more out of 10 (mean 6.39 points [SD 1.57]). Having fears of infection (log OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.05– 0.44; P=0.01) correlated with a higher overall score, contritely to beginner, intermediate English level, and male gender (log OR -0.68 [95% CI -1.01– -0.35]; P<0.001, -0.3 [-0.5 – -0.1]; P= 0.003, -0.25 [-0.43 – -0.08]; P=0.004, respectively). Finally, 682 (56.88%) of the final-year students expressed willingness to volunteer with healthcare teams.Conclusion: Integrating final-year medical students may be an alternative in case of pandemics especially for fragile systems or those hit by a long-lasting war, while taking into consideration fulfilling personal protective measures, intensive training, and/or adequate supervision.
Macrophage conditioned media promotes adipocyte cancer-association, which in turn stimulates breast cancer proliferation and migration
Authors: Vallega Karin A. , Bosco Dale B. , Ren Yi , Sang Qing-Xiang
Published: December 2020

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the leading cause of female cancer deaths worldwide. Obesity causes chronic inflammation and is a risk factor for post-menopausal breast cancer and poor prognosis. Obesity is known to trigger increased infiltration of macrophages into adipose tissue, yet little research has focused on the effects of macrophages in the early stages of breast tumor development in obese patients. In this study, the effects of pro-inflammatory macrophages on breast cancer-adipocyte crosstalk were investigated.
Methods

An innovative human cell co-culture system was used to model the paracrine interactions among adipocytes, macrophages, and breast cancer cells, and how they can facilitate tumor progression. The effects on human breast cancer cells were examined using cell counts and migration assays. Quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the expression levels of several cytokines and proteases to analyze adipocyte cancer-association.
Results

Macrophage conditioned media intensified the effects of breast cancer-adipocyte crosstalk. More specifically, adipocytes became delipidated and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, even in the absence of breast cancer cells, although the expression levels were highest with all three cell components. As a result, co-cultured breast cancer cells became more aggressive, with increased proliferation and migration potential when compared to adipocyte-breast cancer cell co-cultures treated with unconditioned media.
Conclusions

Macrophage conditioned media promotes adipocyte cancer-association and production of pro-inflammatory factors. These macrophage-adipocyte paracrine interactions promote human breast cancer cell proliferation and migration. Thus, macrophages may contribute to adipocyte inflammation and cancer-association and promote breast cancer progression.
Early COVID-19 treatment clinical trials: so much work, so many lost opportunities.
Authors: Mainoli Beatrice , Machado Tiago , Duarte Gonçalo S , Prada Luísa , Gonçalves Nilza , Ferreira Joaquim J , Costa João
Published: December 2020

Background The Covid-19 pandemic has raged on and heavy clinical research have been promoted worldwide. We aimed to assess the adequacy of treatment clinical trials set forth as early response to COVID-19 pandemic.Methods First, we performed a systematic review of trial registries. The World Health Organization International Trials Registry Platform and national trial registries were searched for COVID-19 trials through April 19th, 2020. For each record, independent researchers extracted interventions, participants, and methodological characteristics. Second, we evaluated on September 14th, 2020 the recruitment status and availability of results of COVID-19 treatment trials previously identified.Results On April 2020, a total of 580 trials evaluating COVID-19 treatment were registered. Reporting quality was poor (core participant information was missing in 24.1% to 92.7%). Between 54.0% to 93.8% of the trials did not plan to include older people and people at higher baseline risk. Most studies were randomised (67.9%), single-centre (58.3%), non-industry funded (81.1%), to be conducted in China (47.6%), with a median duration of 184 days and a median sample size of 100 participants. Core endpoints (mortality, clinical status, and hospitalization length) were planned to be assessed in 5.2% to 13.1% of the trials. Five months later, 66 trials (11.4%) are reported as “Completed”, and only 46 (7.9%) have public results available. 144 of 580 trials (24.8%) are either under the status “Not yet recruiting” or “Suspended”, and 18 (3.1%) trials were prematurely stopped (“Terminated” or “Withdrawn”) The number of completed trials and trials with results are much lower than anticipated, considering the planned follow-up.Conclusions Our results raise concern regarding the success of the initial global research effort on COVID-19 treatment. The clinical and methodological characteristics of early COVID-19 treatment trials limit their capability to produce clear answers to critical questions in the shortest possible time.
The miniaturization ligament performance probe (MLPP) system for the three-dimensional analysis of ligament strain patterns throughout ankle motion 
Authors: Takeuchi Yoshitaka , Inokuchi Ryota , Takao Masato , Glazebrook Mark , Oliva Xavier , Yamazaki Takayuki , Kubo Maya , Lowe Danielle , Matsui Kentaro , Katakura Mai , Ozeki Satoru
Published: December 2020

BackgroundMeasuring strain patterns of joint ligaments in various positions informs our understanding their function. However, studies on the biomechanical properties of ankle ligaments are few, and the tensile properties of each ligament during motion have not been described because existing biomechanical sensors are too big to insert within the ankle. This study aimed to verify the validity of a novel miniaturized ligament performance probe (MLPP) system for measuring the strain pattern of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) during ankle motion. MethodsThe system is composed of a strain gauge (force probe), amplifier unit, display unit, and logger, which are widely used industrially. Ten fresh-frozen, through-the-knee, lower extremity, cadaveric specimens were used. The MLPP was sutured into the midsubstance of ATFL fibers. To measure tensile force, a round metal disk (clock; 150 mm in diameter), with a 6-mm-diameter hole every 30°, was fixed on the plantar aspect of the foot. With a 1.2-Nm load applied to the ankle and subtalar joint complex, the ankle was manually moved from 15° dorsiflexion to 30° plantar flexion. The clock was rotated every 30° to measure ATFL strain at each end point detected by the miniature force probe. ResultsThroughout motion required to shift from 15° dorsiflexion to 30° plantar flexion, the ATFL tensed near 20° plantar flexion, and strain increased as the plantar flexion angle increased. The ATFL was maximally tensioned at 3 and 4 o’clock in the inversion position. In the elastic range in which the ATFL is capable of returning to its original shape and length, tensile force was proportional to strain in all cases. ConclusionThe MLPP system could be used to effectively determine the relationship between limb position and small ankle ligament strain patterns.
Tephra deposit inversion by coupling Tephra2 with the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm: algorithm introduction and demonstration with synthetic datasets
Authors: Yang Qingyuan , Pitman E Bruce , Bursik Marcus , Jenkins Susanna F
Published: December 2020

In this work we couple the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm with the volcanic ash transport model Tephra2, and present the coupled algorithm as a new method to estimate the Eruption Source Parameters of volcanic eruptions based on mass per unit area or thickness measurements of tephra fall deposits. Outputs of the algorithm are presented as sample posterior distributions for variables of interest. Basic elements in the algorithm and how to implement it are introduced. Experiments are done with synthetic datasets. These experiments are designed to demonstrate that the algorithm works from diﬀerent perspectives, and to show how inputs aﬀect its performance. Advantages of the algorithm are that it has the ability to i) incorporate prior knowledge; ii) quantify the uncertainty; iii) capture correlations between variables of interest in the estimated Eruption Source Parameters; and iv) no simpliﬁcation is assumed in sampling from the posterior probability distribution. A limitation is that some of the inputs need to be speciﬁed subjectively, which is designed intentionally such that the full capacity of the Bayes’ rule can be explored by users. How and why inputs of the algorithm aﬀect its performance and how to specify them properly are explained and listed. Correlation between variables of interest in the posterior distributions exists in many of our experiments. They can be well-explained by the physics of tephra transport. We point out that in tephra deposit inversion, caution is needed in attempting to estimate Eruption Source Parameters and wind direction and speed at each elevation level, because this could be unnecessary or would increase the number of variables to be estimated, and these variables could be highly correlated. The algorithm is applied to a mass per unit area dataset of the tephra deposit from the 2011 Kirishima-Shinmoedake eruption. Simulation results from Tephra2 using posterior means from the algorithm are consistent with ﬁeld observations, suggesting that this approach reliably reconstructs Eruption Source Parameters and wind conditions from deposits.
Empowering Traditional Birth Attendants as Agents of Maternal and Neonatal Immunization Uptake in Nigeria: a repeated measures design.
Authors: IWU Chinedu Anthony , Uwakwe Kenechi , Oluoha Uchechukwu Raphael , Duru Chukwuma , Nwaigbo Ernest
Published: December 2020

Background: Adequate immunization coverage in rural communities remain a challenge in Nigeria. Traditional birth attendants (TBAs) form an integral part of the social, cultural and religious fabric in most rural communities in Nigeria. Despite their limitations in handling the complications of childbirth, TBAs are widely accepted and patronized, especially in rural areas. The objectives of the project were to empower TBAs and assess the use of a culturally adapted audio-visual workshop intervention to change their knowledge, attitude and willingness to promote immunization uptake. Methods: A repeated-measures design that used a convenience sampling technique to select 90 TBAs from the three geopolitical zones of Imo State, Nigeria. The TBAs were engaged through a culturally adapted audio-visual workshop. Data were collected before and immediately after intervention using a pretested questionnaire. Chi square test was done to determine any significant association with the zone of practice and paired sample t-test analysis to determine any significant pre and post intervention change. Level of significance was set at p ≤ ·05.Results: More than half of the TBAs had at most, a secondary level of education (54·4 %). The average length of time they practiced as TBAs was 16 years with an average of ten birth deliveries per month. After the intervention, all the respondents (100%) reported a willingness to always promote immunization uptake and also, there was a statistically significant increase in Knowledge (p<·000). Similarly, the level of knowledge in the post intervention period appeared to be significantly associated with the zone of practice (p= ·027). Conclusion: The workshop intervention empowered the TBAs irrespective of their zones of residence by successfully improving their knowledge, though at varying levels; and consequently, their willingness to always promote immunization uptake.
Hypoxia-sensitive long noncoding RNA CASC15 promotes lung tumorigenesis by regulating the SOX4/β-catenin axis
Authors: Sun Jianyong , Xiong Yanlu , Jiang Kuo , Xin Bo , Jiang Tongtong , Wei Renji , Zou Yuankang , Tan Hong , Jiang Tao , Yang Angang , Jia Lintao , Wang Lei
Published: December 2020

Background: Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in the hypoxia-related cancer process and play pivotal roles in enabling malignant cells to survive under hypoxic stress. However, the molecular crosstalk between lncRNAs and hypoxia signaling cascades in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains largely elusive. Methods: Firstly, we identified differentially expressed lncRNA cancer susceptibility candidate 15 (CASC15) as associated with NSCLC based on bioinformatic data. The clinical significance of CASC15 in lung cancer was investigated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Then, we modulated CASC15 expression in NSCLC cell lines by RNAi. CCK-8 and transwell assays were carried out to examine the effects of CASC15 on proliferation and migration of NSCLC cells. Upstream activator and downstream targets of CASC15 were validated by luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Lastly, RNA in situ hybridization (RNA-ISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to confirm the genetic relationships between CASC15 and related genes in clinical samples.Results: CASC15 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and closely associated with poor prognosis. Loss-of-function analysis demonstrated that CASC15 was essential for NSCLC cell migration and growth. Mechanistic study revealed that CASC15 was transcriptionally activated by hypoxia signaling in NSCLC cells. Further analysis showed that hypoxia-induced CASC15 transactivation was mainly dependent on hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and hypoxia response elements (HREs) located in CASC15 promoter. CASC15 promotes the expression of its chromosomally nearby gene, SOX4. Then SOX4 functions to stabilize β-catenin protein, thereby enhancing the proliferation and migration of NSCLC cells. HIF-1α/CASC15/SOX4/β-catenin pathway was activated in a substantial subset of NSCLC patients.Conclusions: HIF-1α/CASC15/SOX4/β-catenin axis plays an essential role in the development and progression of NSCLC. The present work provides new evidence that lncRNA CASC15 holds great promise to be used as novel biomarkers for NSCLC. Blocking the HIF-1α/CASC15/SOX4/β-catenin axis can serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating NSCLC.
Interleukin (IL)-33 is dispensable for Schistosoma mansoni worm maturation and the maintenance of egg-induced pathology in intestines of infected mice
Authors: Mukendi Jean Pierre Kambala , Nakamura Risa , Uematsu Satoshi , Hamano Shinjiro
Published: December 2020

Background: Schistosomes are trematode worms that dwell in their definitive host’s blood vessels, where females lay eggs that need to be discharged into the environment with host excreta to maintain their life cycle. Both worms and eggs require type 2 immunity for their maturation and excretion, respectively. However, immune molecules that orchestrate such immunity remain unclear. IL-33 is one of the epithelium-derived cytokines that induce type 2 immunity in tissues. This study aimed at determining its role in the maturation, reproduction, and excretion of S. mansoni eggs, and in the maintenance of egg-induced pathology in the intestines of mice.Methods: Using S. mansoni-infected IL-33-deficient (IL-33-/-) and wild-type (WT) mice, the morphology of worms and the number of eggs in intestinal tissues were studied at different time points of infection. IL-5 and IL-13 production in spleens and mesenteric lymph nodes were measured. Tissue histology was performed on the terminal ilea of infected and non-infected mice.Results: Morphology-wise, worms from IL-33-/- and WT mice at the fourth and sixth weeks of infection did not differ. The number of eggs in intestinal tissues did not differ much between IL-33-/- and WT mice. In the sixth week of infection, IL-33-/- mice presented impaired type 2 immunity in intestines, characterized by decreased production of IL-5 and IL-13 in mesenteric lymph nodes and fewer inflammatory infiltrates with fewer eosinophils in the ilea. Otherwise there was no difference between IL-33-/- and WT mice in the levels of IL-25 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in intestinal tissues.Conclusions: Despite its ability to initiate type 2 immunity in tissues, IL-33 alone seems dispensable for S. mansoni maturation and its absence may not affect much the accumulation of eggs in intestinal tissues. The transient impairment of type 2 immunity observed in the intestines, but not spleens, highlights the importance of IL-33 over IL-25 and TSLP in initiating, but not maintaining, locally-induced type 2 immunity in intestinal tissues during schistosome infection. Further studies are needed to decipher the role of each of them in schistosomiasis and clarify the possible interactions that might exist between them.
Medication Adherence Support of an In-home Electronic Medication Dispensing System for Individuals living with Chronic Conditions: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Arain Mubashir , Ahmad Armghan , Chiu Venus , Kembel Lorena
Published: December 2020

Background: Medication adherence is challenging for older adults due to factors, such as the number of medications, dosing schedule, and the duration of drug therapy. The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of an in-home electronic medication dispensing system (MDS) on improving medication adherence and health perception in older adults with chronic conditions.Methods: A pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) was conducted using a two-arm parallel assignment model. The intervention group used an MDS as their medication management method. The control group continued to use their current methods of medication management. Block randomization was used to assign participants into the intervention or control group. The inclusion criteria included 1) English speaking 2) age 50 and over 3) diagnosed with one or more chronic condition(s) 4) currently taking five or more oral medications 5) City of Calgary resident. Participants were recruited from a primary care clinic in Alberta, Canada. The study was open label where knowledge about group assigned to participants after randomization was not withheld. Medication adherence was captured over a continuous, six-month period and analyzed using Intention-to-Treat (ITT) analysis.Results: A total of 91 participants were assessed for eligibility and 50 were randomized into the two groups. The number of participants analyzed for ITT was 23 and 25 in the intervention and control group, respectively. Most of the demographic characteristics were comparable in the two groups except mean age of the intervention group, which was higher compared to the control group (63.96±7.86 versus 59.52±5.93, p-value=0.03). The average recorded adherence over 26 weeks was significantly higher in the intervention group than the control group (98.35%±2.15% versus 91.17%±9.76%, p<0.01). The self-rated medication adherence in the intervention group also showed a significant increase from baseline to 6-month (7.63±1.63 versus 9.13±0.81, p<0.01). The control group showed a non-significant increase (7.20±1.74 versus 8.27±2.09, p=0.07).Conclusion: MDS can be an effective, long-term solution to medication non-adherence in older adults experiencing chronic conditions and taking multiple medications. The technology induces better consistency and improvement in medication taking behaviour than simple, non-technological intervention.Trial Registration: Registered with ClinicalTrials.gov on April 09, 2020 with identifier NCT04339296.
Influence of flow rate, fluid temperature, and extension line on Hotline and S-line heating capability: an in vitro study
Authors: Kim Hosu , Kim Tae Kyong , Yoo Sukha , Kim Jin-Tae
Published: December 2020

Background A fluid warmer can prevent hypothermia during the perioperative period. This study evaluated the heating capabilities of Hotline and Barkey S-line under different flow rates and initial fluid temperatures, as well as after the extension line installation. Methods We measured the temperature of a 0.9% sodium chloride solution at the fluid warmer outlet (TProx) and the extension line end (TDistal) with three different initial fluid temperatures (room, warm, and cold) and two flow rates (250 ml/hr and 100 mL/hr). Results At a 250 ml/hr flow rate, the TProx and TDistal values were observed to be higher in Hotline than in S-line when using room-temperature or cold fluid. Administering of the warm fluid at the same flow rate significantly increased the TProx and TDistal values in S-line more than the cold and room-temperature fluids. At flow rates of 100 ml/hr, TDistal values were significantly lower than TProx values in both devices regardless of the initial fluid temperature. Conclusions Hotline outperformed S-line for warming fluids at a high flow rate with cold or room-temperature fluids. Administering warm fluid in S-line prevented a decrease in the fluid temperature at a high flow rate. However, at a low flow rate, the fluid temperature significantly decreased in both devices after passing through an extension line.
Identification of the Neuropeptide Precursor Genes Potentially Involved in the Larval Settlement in the Echiuran Worm Urechis unicinctus
Authors: Hou Xitan , Qin Zhenkui , Wei Maokai , Fu Zhong , Liu Ruonan , Lu Li , Bai Shumiao , Ma Yubin , Zhang Zhifeng
Published: December 2020

Background: In marine invertebrate life cycles, which often consist of planktonic larval and benthonic adult stages, settlement of the free-swimming larva to the sea ﬂoor in response to environmental cues is a key life cycle transition. Settlement is regulated by a specialized sensory–neurosecretory system, the larval apical organ. The neuroendocrine mechanisms through which the apical organ transduces environmental cues into behavioral responses during settlement are not fully understood yet.Results: In this study, a total of 54 neuropeptide precursors (pNPs) were identified in the Urechis unicinctus larva and adult transcriptome databases using local BLAST and NpSearch prediction, of which 10 pNPs belonging to the ancient eumetazoa, 24 pNPs belonging to the ancient bilaterian, 3 pNPs belonging to the ancient protostome, 9 pNPs exclusive in lophotrochozoa, 3 pNPs exclusive in annelid, and 5 pNPs only found in U. unicinctus. Furthermore, four pNPs (MIP, FRWamide, FxFamide and FILamide) which may be associated with the settlement and metamorphosis of U. unicinctus larvae were analysed by qRT-PCR. Whole-mount in situ hybridization results showed that all the four pNPs were expressed in the region of the apical organ of the larva, and the positive signals were also detected in the ciliary band and abdomen chaetae. We speculated that these pNPs may regulate the movement of larval cilia and chaeta by sensing external attachment signals.Conclusions: This study represents the ﬁrst comprehensive identiﬁcation of neuropeptides in Echiura, and would contribute to a complete understanding on the roles of various neuropeptides in larval settlement of most marine benthonic invertebrates.
Utility of self-rated adherence for monitoring dietary and physical activity compliance and assessment of participant feedback of the Healthy Diet and Lifestyle Study pilot.
Authors: O’Reilly Holly , Panizza Chloe , Lim Unhee , Yonemori Kim M , Wilkens Lynne R , Shvetsov Yurii B , Harvie Michelle N , Shepherd John , Zhu Fengqing Maggie , Marchand Loïc Le , Boushey Carol J , Cassel Kevin D
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND: We examined the utility of self-rated adherence to dietary and physical activity (PA) prescriptions as a method to monitor intervention compliance and facilitate goal setting during the Healthy Diet and Lifestyle Study (HDLS). In addition, we assessed participants’ feedback of HDLS. HDLS, is a randomized pilot intervention that compared the effect of intermittent energy restriction combined with a Mediterranean diet (IER+MED) to a Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, with matching PA regimens, for reducing visceral adipose tissue area (VAT).METHODS: Analyses included the 59 (98%) participants who completed at least one week of HDLS. Dietary and PA adherence scores were collected 8 times across 12-weeks, using a 0-10 scale (0=Not at all, 4=Somewhat, and 10=Following the plan very well). Adherence scores for each participant were averaged and assigned to high and low adherence categories using the group median (7.3 for diet, 7.1 for PA). Mean changes in VAT and weight from baseline to 12 weeks are reported by adherence level, overall and by randomization arm. Participants’ feedback at completion and 6 months post intervention were examined.RESULTS: Mean ± SE, dietary adherence was 6.0 ± 0.2 and 8.2 ± 0.1, for the low and high adherence groups, respectively. For PA adherence, mean scores were 5.9 ± 0.2 and 8.5 ± 0.2, respectively. Compared to participants with low dietary adherence, those with high adherence lost significantly more VAT (22.9 ± 3.7 cm2 vs. 11.7 ± 3.9 cm2 [95% CI, -22.1 to -0.3]) and weight at Week 12 (5.4 ± 0.8 kg vs. 3.5 ± 0.6 kg [95% CI, -3.8 to -0.0]). For PA, compared to participants with low adherence, those with high adherence lost significantly more VAT (22.3 ± 3.7 cm2 vs. 11.6 ± 3.6 cm2 [95% CI, -20.7 to -0.8]). Participants’ qualitative feedback of HDLS was positive and the most common response, on how to improve the study, was to provide cooking classes.CONCLUSIONS: Results support the use of self-rated adherence as an effective method to monitor dietary and PA compliance and facilitate participant goal setting. Study strategies were found to be effective with promoting compliance to intervention prescriptions.TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03639350. Registered 21st August 2018- Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03639350
Dječja lektira i novi mediji
Authors: Lazzarich Marinko , Čančar Antonia
Published: December 2020

Kulturu čitanja oblikuje niz individualno i društveno određenih čimbenika koji proizlaze i iz kulturne tradicije neke sredine zbog čega je status knjige neodvojiv od cjelokupnoga vrijednosnoga sustava pojedinoga društva. Učitelj materinskoga jezika ključna je figura u procesu literarnoga sazrijevanja buduće čitateljske publike, a njegova je uloga otežana društvenim promjenama u današnjem »računalnom« svijetu gdje su položaj čitatelja i knjige bitno izmijenjeni u odnosu na ne tako davnu prošlost. Ne možemo u svemu kriviti digitalne medije, pa tako ni za smanjeni interes učenika za čitanje knjiga. U ovom radu raspravljat će se o složenosti obrazovnoga područja, o kulturi čitanja u novonastalom online okruženju te o promjenama koje donosi aktualni predmetni kurikul za Hrvatski jezik. Kritički će se razmotriti prednosti i nedostatci uporabe informacijsko-komunikacijske tehnologije u odgojno-obrazovnome procesu te ponuditi smjernice za funkcionalnu primjenu mrežnih alata i gotovih aplikacija u nastavi Hrvatskoga jezika. Dječje je odrastanje usko povezano s digitalizacijom i društvenim mrežama čiji utjecaj ne mora biti negativan, samo ga treba funkcionalno iskoristiti i usmjeriti pozornost neupitnom potencijalu dobre knjige. Istaknut će se (ne)opravdanost obvezne školske lektire i problem neuvažavanja čitateljskih interesa učenika mlađe školske dobi. U radu će biti ponuđen metodički predložak za interpretaciju lektirnoga naslova uz primjenu kreativnih mrežnih alata.
Ispitivanje interesa i zadovoljstva nastavom likovne umjetnosti kao poticaja za razvoj sposobnosti učenja ostalih nastavnih predmeta
Authors: Drljača Miroslav D. , Opić Siniša , Matijević Milan
Published: December 2020

Istraživanje je provedeno na uzorku učenika trećih razreda strukovnih škola i gimnazija (N=605). Od uključenih učenika, gimnaziju je pohađalo njih 253, a srednje strukovne škole 352 učenika. Cilj istraživanja bio je ispitati neke specifičnosti u percepciji učenika srednjih škola o važnosti nastavnih predmeta iz područja likovnih umjetnosti. Napravljena je posebna analiza samo za dvije odabrane zavisne varijable: važnost nastavnih predmeta iz područja likovnih umjetnosti za razvoj pamćenja i sposobnosti za učenje ostalih nastavnih predmeta te interes i zadovoljstvo sudjelovanjem u likovnim aktivnostima. Rezultati pokazuju da ne postoji statistički značajna razlika između učenika gimnazija i strukovnih škola u procjeni sudjelovanja u aktivnostima nastave likovne umjetnosti te u procjeni važnosti likovnih aktivnosti za razvoj pamćenja i sposobnosti za učenje ostalih predmeta. Postoji statistički značajna spolna razlika u procjeni sudjelovanja u aktivnostima nastave likovne umjetnosti te u procjeni važnosti likovnih aktivnosti za razvoj pamćenja i sposobnosti za učenje ostalih predmeta. Može se zaključiti da ispitanici nisu bili u mogućnosti procijeniti koliko i u koju svrhu će im u daljnjem školovanju i budućem zanimanju koristiti kompetencije stečene u nastavi likovne umjetnosti.
Clinical and epidemiological aspect of malignant neoplasm of conjunctiva in the Chelyabinsk region
Authors: Semenova L. E. , Panova I. E. , Musaeva P. I.
Published: December 2020

Malignant neoplasms of conjunctiva (MNC) are characterized by high degree of malignancy and predisposed to invasive growth and generalization of the process, which leads to fatal outcomes. Purpose: to investigate clinical and epidemiological aspects of malignant conjunctival tumors over a 18-year period starting in 2001. Material and methods. We analyzed the epidemiological factors of MNC in 51 patients aged 15 to 97 (average 63.1 ± 17.3), who were treated in the Center of Oncological ophthalmology at the Chelyabinsk regional clinical center of oncology and nuclear medicine. Results. The structure and morbidity changes of MNC are presented, showing the age and gender distribution of patients and revealing the clinical picture for varying types of the pathology. Long-term results were as follows: MNC relapses occurred in 11 patients (22.4 %) 36.0 ± 24.5 months after treatment. Tumor metastases into regional lymph nodes and hematogenous metastases averagely developed after 18.5 ± 6.8 years. Between 2008 and 2015, 9 patients (17.6 %) died. The Cancer Register of the Center was used to calculate the parameters of corrected cumulative survival rate for Chelyabinsk region population after MNC as a whole, as well as separately for melanomas and squamous cell carcinomas of the conjunctiva, and for the stages of the disease. The three-year survival rate for MNC was 80.5 %, for conjunctival melanoma 90.1 %, for squamous cell carcinomas 80.5 %. The 5-year survival rates were, respectively, 71.5, 80.1 and 60.5 %. The 3-year MNC survival rate for stages I and II of MNC was 100 %. For stage III, it was 76.9 %, and for stage IV, 33.3 %. The 5-year survival rates for stages I to IV of MNC were respectively, 100, 88.9, 69.2 % and 33.3 %. Conclusion. The new Center for oncological ophthalmology established within a multidisciplinary oncological treatment and prophylactic institution improved medical assistance and diagnostics of patients with MNP. The results obtained should be taken into account when developing preventive measures for the early detection of conjunctival malignancy.
The Struggle with Disease Taxonomy in Han Kang’s The Vegetarian
Authors:   Ph.D. Scholar. Tezpur University, Assam, India., Choudhury Jharna
Published: December 2020

The root cause of the suffering of Yeong-hye denies all clear-cut medical nomenclatures in Han Kang’s novel The Vegetarian. This paper discusses how heath institutions (in the context of the text) negate the aspects of cultural oppression, sexual trauma and power-play (referring to Michel Foucault) within the family structure while formulating a categorical taxonomy of a disease. In a constant struggle with anorexia, vegetal metamorphosis and parallel dream sequences, the cause-effect relationships in the illness of Yeong-hye and her sister In-hye defers end-significations with plurality. Bringing in Susan Bordo, the hierarchy of gender in the control over food choices is discussed in the light of etiology of Yeong-hye’s disease, its “whatness”, and how medical institutions define her clinical condition.
Building Bridges: African Biomedicine in Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s Wizard of the Crow
Authors:   Assistant Professor of English, Chellammal Women’s College, Guindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India., Sivasubramaniam Revathy
Published: December 2020

Using the insights provided by Professor Michael Worton and sociologist David Baronov, the paper strives to show that the cultural aspect of medicine is intrinsic to health and illness. This paper seeks to present the vibrancy of pluralistic medical practices in contemporary Africa through Kenyan writer Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s novel Wizard of the Crow. It seeks to illustrate the pragmatic nature of African pluralistic medical practices that absorb and assimilate certain aspects from biomedicine, thereby paving the way for a distinctive blend that may rightly be termed as African biomedicine. It contends that African pluralistic medicine, biomedicine, and African biomedicine can coexist peacefully and contribute to the wellbeing of the African society in a highly globalized world.
Cryptographic Recursive Control of Integrity of Metadata Electronic Documents. Part 1. Mathematical Model
Authors:   Krasnodar Higher Military Orders of Zhukov and the October Revolution Red Banner School named after General of the Army S.M. Shtemenko, Tali Dmitry , Finko Oleg ,   Krasnodar Higher Military Orders of Zhukov and the October Revolution Red Banner School named after General of the Army S.M. Shtemenko,   Russian Academy of Rocket and Artillery Sciences (RARAN)
Published: December 2020

The purpose of the research is to increase the level of security of electronic document metadata in the face of destructive influences from authorized users (insiders). Research methods: new scientific results allowed using a combination of data integrity control method based on the «write once» method and of authentication of HMAС messages (hash-based message authentication, as well as graph theory methods. Research result: a method of cryptographic recursive 2-D control of the integrity of electronic documents metadata is proposed. The analysis of the object of the study was carried out, based on the results of which it was concluded that it is necessary to effectively protect the metadata of electronic documents processed by automated information systems of electronic document management. Developed and described a mathematical model of the proposed method, based on graph theory. The developed technical solution makes it possible to implement the functions of cryptographic recursive twodimensional control of the integrity of the metadata of electronic documents, as well as to provide the possibility of localizing modified (with signs of violation of integrity) metadata records, in conditions of destructive influences of authorized users (insiders). This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of collusion between trusted parties by introducing mutual control over the results of their actions. The proposed solution makes it possible to ensure control of the integrity of data processed by departmental automated information systems of electronic document management, where, due to the peculiarities of their construction, it is impossible to effectively use the currently popular blockchain technology.
Automated Optoelectronic Ground–Space Monitoring System for Real–Time Security Systems
Authors:   JSC “Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Science named after S.A. Lebedev RAS“, Gavrilov Dmitry ,   Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Lovtsov Dmitry ,   JSC “Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Science named after S.A. Lebedev RAS“
Published: December 2020

Purpose of the article: The main approaches of an effective automated optoelectronic ground–space monitoring system construction provided visual information secure processing in conditions of information rivalry are considered. Research method: solving the main tasks of the AOES NKM – objects of interest stabilization, detection, localization and classification in photo and video data in relation to various background–target environments, the use of a protection measures set and the fight against information and technical impact deliberate destructive disturbing factors by rational directions of their prevention and the consequences of their manifestation timely elimination development. Obtained result: The main approaches provided visual information secure processing in the context of information rivalry in an automated optoelectronic ground–space monitoring system are presented
Designing an Internationally Significant Electronic Document Flow for Holding Companies
Authors:   Saint-Petersburg National Research University of Information Technologies, Mechanics and Optics, Livshitz Ilya , Sokolov Egor ,   Gazprom International
Published: December 2020

The purpose of the article: study theoretical approaches and practical schemes for implementing international significant electronic document flow and making proposals for designing any electronic services for holding companies. Research method: Systematic analysis of modern approaches and practical schemes for implementing international significant electronic document flow, including methods for ensuring trust for holding companies operating in various jurisdictions. The result obtained: the scheme for ensuring an internationally significant electronic document flow for holding companies operating in various jurisdictions is proposed. Options for ensuring trust in electronic services provided in various locations are shown. The most significant information security risks are identified and countermeasures to reduce them are proposed. This result can be applied in practice to ensure the legal significance of electronic documents for safety cross-border information exchange, including for companies operating in different jurisdictions.
Formalized Risk-Oriented Model of the Information Technology System
Authors:   Federal state military educational institution of higher professional education ", Anosov Roman ,   Military educational scientific center air force ",   air force Academy named after Professor N. E. Zhukovsky and Y. A. Gagarin", Anosov Sergey ,   Federal State Unitary Enterprise «Scientific and Technical Center «Zarya», Shakhalov Igor ,   Bauman Moscow State Technical University,   Scientific-Production Association Echelon Joint-Stock Company
Published: December 2020

Abstract. The aim of the study is to systematize the principles of building information technologies that are essential from the point of view of information risk assessment, and to form, on this basis, a model that provides the ability to analyze risk factors when building secure information systems. Methods: when developing the model, the methods of game theory and set theory were used. The result: the model is focused on taking into account the conflicting nature of interaction between information technologies and sources of threats to information security The information technology system is considered as an interconnected set of technologies of the warring parties, providing the processes of practical activity of one of them, which allows, on a unified methodological basis, to analyze the vulnerabilities of information technologies, scenarios for the implementation of threats, as well as to optimize technological solutions for information protection. The model is characterized by a high degree of generalization, since its main elements are abstract entities: a set of information technologies used by the parties; sets of information operations, implemented by technologies; information and control relationships on sets of technologies and operations. To use the model requires a preliminary development of the list and characteristics of these sets and relations in relation to specific information technologies
DYNAMICS OF THE PROCESSES OF INTER- AND INTRA-HEMISPHERIC INTERACTIONS (FUNCTIONAL CONNECTIVITY) OF THE BRAIN MOTOR ZONES RESPONSIBLE FOR WALKING IN NEURO-REHABILITATION OF PATIENTS WITH FOCAL DAMAGES OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Authors:   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Saenko I.V. , Chernikova L.A. ,   Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Khizhnikova A.E. ,   Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Kremneva E.I. ,   Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Kozlovskaya I.B. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow
Published: December 2020

The paper discusses the findings of studying neuroplastic transformations in the brain cortex owing to stroke patients therapy using soft multimodel exoskeleton complex (MEC) REGENT in comparison with activation of the cortex structures controlling locomotion in healthy people. The MEC course applied to hemiparetic patients increases walk speed; changes in the activity zones detected by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) attest to the positive trajectory of neuroplastic processes, i.e. activation in the precentral gyrus (primary motor cortex), secondary association cortex (inferior parietal lobule) on the damaged hemisphere, and right-side primary sensorimotor cortex. Analysis of the functional connectivity between the areas of interest before and after the MEC therapy elicited significant changes in the inter- and intra-hemispheric connections. This positive cortical reorganization has its origin in reduction of excitory interactions between the secondary associative areas (inferior parietal lobules in both hemispheres) and alleviation of the inhibitory interaction between the inferior parietal lobule and primary right-side sensorimotor cortex in the damaged hemisphere.
EFFECTS OF MICROGRAVITY ON POSTURAL CONTROL: CONCEPTS PIONEERED BY I.B. KOZLOVSKAYA
Authors:   Neuromodulation and Recovery Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA, Sayenko D.G. , Tomilovskaya E.S. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow
Published: December 2020

Professor Inesa B. Kozlovskaya led a series of multifaceted systematic studies that explored the impact of space flights and ground-based models of microgravity on motor control in humans. Based on data from these studies, she postulated that the cascade of microgravity-induced impairments in postural control is largely associated with deactivation of the muscle tone system. The decrease in tone of antigravity muscles, in turn, is triggered by the deficit and distortion of gravity-specific sensory input from tactile mechanoreceptors and otoliths. Further studies led by Prof. Kozlovskaya demonstrated that the quality of postural control following space flights depends on the type and amount of in-flight physical activity. These fundamental works have elucidated mechanisms through which microgravity impacts motor control and are instrumental in developing advanced countermeasure means of the negative sensorimotor effects caused by space flights.