bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-Varying Discrimination Accuracy of Longitudinal Biomarkers for the Prediction of Mortality Compared to Assessment at Fixed Time Point in Severe Burns Patients
Authors: Yoon Jaechul , Kym Dohern , Hur Jun , Won Jae Hee , Yim Haejun , Cho Yong Suk , Chun Wook
Published: May 2020

Background: The distribution of biomarkers over time is considered an indicator of disease formation and helps in early detection of disease, thus reducing the disease-related mortality. The ability of biomarkers to predict outcomes has been evaluated using conventional cross-sectional methods; therefore, we investigated the prognostic potential of longitudinal biomarkers over time.Methods: The patients aged > 18 y who were admitted within 24 h of the burn incident in the burn intensive care unit were enrolled. Longitudinal biomarkers, such as WBC, platelet count, lactate, creatinine, TB, and PT were retrieved from a clinical database warehouse. Time-dependent ROC curves using a cumulative/dynamic and incident/dynamic approach were employed to evaluate time-varying prognostic performance.Results: Total 2259 patients were included in this retrospective study and divided into the survival group and non-survival group. With AUC using the ID approach, platelets showed the highest c-index with 0.930 (0.919 ~ 0.941) as well as the highest during all time points. PT and creatinine show over 8 c-index with 0.862 (0.843 ~ 0.881) and 0.828 (0.809 ~ 0.848), respectively.Conclusions: The platelet count was the best prognostic marker. PT and creatinine also showed good overall diagnostic ability. Lactate is known as a strong predictor; however, it showed relatively poorer prognostic performance in burns.
Efficient Production of 2,3-Butanediol from whey Powder by Metabolic Engineered Klebsiella Oxytoca
Authors: Meng Wensi , Zhang Yongjia , Cao Menghao , Zhang Wen , Lü Chuanjuan , Yang Chunyu , Gao Chao , Xu Ping , Ma Cuiqing
Published: May 2020

Backgrounds: Whey is the major pollution source from the dairy industry. Exploring new outlets for whey utilization is urgently needed to decline its environmental pollution. In this study, we explored the possibility of using whey powder to produce 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BD), an important platform chemical.Results: A Klebsiella oxytoca strain PDL-0 was selected from five 2,3-BD producing strains based on its ability to efficiently produce 2,3-BD from lactose, the major fermentable sugar in whey. Five genes including pox, pta, frdA, ldhD, and pflB were knocked out in K. oxytoca PDL-0 to decrease the production of byproducts like acetate, succinate, lactate, and formate. Using fed-batch fermentation of K. oxytoca PDL-0 ΔpoxΔptaΔfrdAΔldhDΔpflB, 74.9 g/L 2,3-BD was produced with a productivity of 2.27 g/L/h and a yield of 0.43 g/g from lactose. In addition, when whey powder was used as the substrate, 65.5 g/L 2,3-BD was produced within 24 h with a productivity of 2.73 g/L/h and a yield of 0.44 g/g.Conclusion: This study proved the efficiency of K. oxytoca PDL-0 to metabolize whey for 2,3-BD production. Due to its characteristics of non-pathogenicity and efficient lactose utilization, K. oxytoca PDL-0 might also be used in the production of other important chemicals using whey as the substrate.
Rh-relaxin-2 Attenuates Degranulation of mast cells by Inhibiting NF-κB through PI3K-AKT/TNFAIP3 Pathway in an Experimental Germinal Matrix Hemorrhage Rat Model
Authors: Li Peng , Zhao Gang , Chen Fanfan , Ding Yan , Wang Tianyi , Liu Shengpeng , Lu Weitian , Xu Weilin , Flores Jerry , Ocak Umut , Zhang Tongyu , Zhang John H. , Tang Jiping
Published: May 2020

Background:
Mast cells play an important role in early immune reactions in the brain by inducing degranulation and releasing inflammatory mediators. Our aim of the study is to investigate the effects of rh-relaxin-2 on mast cells and the underlying mechanisms in a GMH rat model.
Methods:
One hundred and sixty-four P7 rat pups were subjected to germinal matrix hemorrhage (GMH) by an intraparenchymal injection of bacterial collagenase. Clodronate liposome was administered through intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections 24 hours prior to GMH to inhibit microglia. Rh-relaxin-2 was administered intraperitoneally at 1 hour and 12 hours after GMH. Small interfering RNA of RXFP1 and PI3K inhibitor LY294002 were given by i.c.v. injections. Post-GMH evaluation included neurobehavioral function, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence, Nissl staining, and Toluidine staining.
Results:
Our results demonstrated that endogenous relaxin-2 was downregulated and that RXFP1 level peaked on the first day after GMH. Administration of rh-relaxin-2 improved neurological functions, attenuated degranulation of mast cells and neuroinflammation, and ameliorated post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus after GMH. These effects were associated with RXFP1 activation, increased expression of PI3K, phosphorylated AKT and TNFAIP3, and decreased levels of phosphorylated NF-κB, tryptase, chymase, IL-6 and TNF-α. However, knockdown of RXFP1 and PI3K abolished the protective effects of rh-relaxin-2.
Conclusions:
Our findings showed that rh-relaxin-2 attenuated degranulation of mast cells and neuroinflammation, improved neurological outcomes and ameliorated hydrocephalus after GMH through RXFP1/PI3K-AKT/TNFAIP3/NF-κB signaling pathway.
Structure and regulation of the cervicovaginal microbiome in a cohort of Afro-Caribbean women
Authors: Roachford Orville St. E , Alleyne Angela T , Kuelbs Claire , Torralba Manolito G , Nelson Karen E
Published: May 2020

Background The cervicovaginal microbiome, with its well documented dynamic community state types (CSTs I-V) is known to interact with the host immune system in a complex regulatory ecosystem that guards against dysbiosis and invading pathogens. However, the regulatory mechanism of the cervicovaginal microbiome in vaginal eubiosis is not well understood. Therefore, we characterized the cervicovaginal microbiome in a cohort of Afro-Caribbean women to the species-strain taxonomic level using high-throughput targeted sequencing and shotgun metagenomics and conceptualized a hypothetical model that aids in understanding vaginal ecosystem regulation. Results Compared to targeted 16S rRNA V4 sequencing, whole genome shotgun (WGS) metagenomics offered greater species resolution of the cervicovaginal microbiome in the Afro-Caribbean women cohort. Community state type IV predominated in the microbiome of these women, with Prevotella (13.91%), Gardnerella (12.14%) and Lactobacillus (9.37%) being the three most abundant genera. For Prevotella and Lactobacillus the most abundant species-strains were P. timonensis DSM 22865 (5.0%) and L. iners DSM 13335 (7.0%), respectively. The less virulent strain of Gardnerella, G. vaginalis 409-05 (8.0%) was more abundant than G. vaginalis ATCC 14019 (4.0%). In the resistome, 2,753 antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes consisting of 28 types (mostly tet and Emr; abundances 51% and 15%, respectively) which confer resistance to tetracyclines and the macrolide-lincosamide streptogramin B (MLSb phenotype) group were observed. Functional profiling showed a high abundance of biological processes (bacterial-type flagellum-dependent cell motility, cell adhesion, response to biotic stimulus and quorum sensing) associated with biofilm activity. Conclusions Characterized for the first time, the cervicovaginal microbiome in Afro-Caribbean women is predominantly CST IV with the three most abundant taxa consisting of bacterial strains P. timonensis DSM 22865, G. vaginalis 409-05 and L. iners DSM 13335. Its resistome had multiple AMR genes that confer resistance to antibiotics commonly used in the treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV). In this study, the occurrence of biofilm activity within the cervicovaginal microbiome suggested a possible regulatory role. We present a conceptual immuno-munibiome model that advances a mechanistic approach for the structure and regulation of the vaginal ecosystem in the Afro-Caribbean women cohort.
Efficacy of alendronate for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Yu-hua , Li Yu-zhi , Tang Zhao-chen , Jiang Quan-wei , Zhao Yu
Published: May 2020

Background Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a very tricky orthopedic disorder. If such condition can not be managed fairly well, it may significantly affect quality of life and even leads to disability among such population. A variety of studies have reported that alendronate is utilized for the treatment of AS. However, their results are still contrary, and no systematic review has addressed on this topic. Thus, this study will systematically assess the efficacy and safety of alendronate for the treatment of patients with AS. Methods A comprehensive literature search will be performed from the below electronic databases from their commencement to the January 31, 2020 without language and publication status limitations: PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, WANGFANG, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on the alendronate for the treatment of patients with AS will be considered for inclusion in this study. Two authors will independently select all identified records, extract essential data from all included studies, and appraise study quality for each eligible trial using Cochrane risk of bias. If any differences occur, another experienced author will be invited to solve them by discussion and a consensus decision will be made. We will implement RevMan 5.3 software to analyze the extracted data. Results This study will summarize high quality RCTs to assess the efficacy and safety of alendronate for the treatment of patients with AS through primary outcome of bone densitometry; and secondary outcomes of pain intensity, quality of life, disease activity, functional status, and adverse events. Conclusions This study will provide evidence to help determine whether alendronate is an effective and safe management for patient with AS or not.
Serum Zinc Deficiency in Squamous Cell Carcinomas of Oral and Maxillofacial Region: A Risk Factor to its Development and Metastasis
Authors: Xu Zhenq , Shang Jianw , Wang Guoq , Long Li , Zhang Ping
Published: May 2020

Objectives To explore whether serum Zinc deficiency (sZnd) is a promoter to the development and lymphonode metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of oral and maxillofacial region (OMF). Methods 610 patients with SCC were enrolled in the study group, the controls consisted of the same number of age-gender matched subjects without cancers, serum Zinc level was tested in both groups. Characteristics of SCCs were investigated. Different concentration of serum Zinc and prevalence of sZnd between the two groups were calculated using Chi-square test. The association between serum Zinc status and SCC with different T-stages and lymphonode metastasis was focused on research. Results The patients varied from 19 to 87 years with a mean age of 58.89±10.91 years. Oral cavity was the most commonly affected region. Males were involved predominantly with a ratio of 1.44:1 to females. The concentration of serum Zinc in malignancies was 12.57±2.53 μmol/L, 19.2% suffered from sZnd; in the control group were 14.65±2.25 μmol/L and 6.1%. Decreased serum Zinc and increased prevalence of sZnd in SCC were statistically significant to controls (p=0.000) . Increased incidence of sZnd and reduced level of serum Zinc correlated significantly to the the progression and lymphnode metastasis of SCC (p<0.01). Conclusions sZnd was a predisposing indicator to the tumorigenesis of SCC and also a promoter to its aggravation and lymphonode metastasis, which should be considered as a factor in devising the treatment plannings.
The postoperative outcomes of the dominant lung adenocarcinoma with multiple synchronous ground glass nodules.
Authors: Hotta Takamasa , Tsubata Yukari , Tanino Akari , Nakao Mika , Amano Yoshihiro , Hamaguchi Megumi , Hamaguchi Shunichi , Kishimoto Koji , Isobe Takeshi
Published: May 2020

Background
Multiple synchronous ground glass nodules (GGNs) are known to be malignant but progress slowly. Multiple synchronous lesions in the same patient show independent characteristics and must be treated individually.
Methods
This was a retrospective review of 34 lung adenocarcinoma patients with multiple synchronous GGNs in an Asian population. One hundred twenty-seven single lung adenocarcinoma patients were included for comparison. The follow-up period was 5 years for all patients.
Results
The 5-year overall survival (OS) patients with multiples did not differ from that of patients with single lesion to a statistically significant extent (Single: 81.8% vs. Multiple: 88.2%, P = 0.3602). Dominant tumors (DTs) with a ground glass component and consolidation were divided into three categories based on the consolidation-to-tumor ratio on radiological imaging. No significant differences were observed among the three DT categories. Twenty-four patients had unresected GGNs, progression of the unresected GGN occurred in 10 of these cases. The OS and disease-free survival (DFS) curves of patients with and without GGN progression did not differ to a statistically significant extent (OS: 80% vs. 92.9%, P = 0.3870; DFS: 80% vs. 100%, P = 0.0977).
Conclusions
The outcomes were best predicted by the stage of the DT. After surgery patients require careful follow-up because unresected GGNs may progress. At the same time, the increase in residual lesions and the appearance of new GGNs were not related to OS. The management should be determined by the DT with the worst prognosis.
Do Intra-Articular Corticosteroid Injections Prior to Total Knee Arthroplasty Increase Postoperative Complication Rates: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Rhode David Thomas , Siegel Matthew Alan , Volchenko Elan , Patetta Michael John , Schwarzman Garrett R. , Gonzalez Mark H.
Published: May 2020

Background:There is conflicting literature suggesting that intra-articular corticosteroid injections before total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may lead to an increase in the rate of postoperative complications, specifically periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Thus, this systematic review of all TKAs performed at a large, urban hospital will add valuable evidence to help guide future patient care.Methods: After exclusion criteria, we retrospectively reviewed 417 patients who received a TKA from a group of fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons between 2009 to 2016 at a singleacademic medical center. Minimum follow-up time was oneyear. Patients were separated into two groups: those who received a preoperative intra-articular corticosteroid injection and those who did not receive an injection. Subgroups were created based on the timing of their most recent preoperative injection: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-12 months, 12+ months, and an unknown time period. Postoperative outcomes for PJI, revision TKA, and manipulation under anesthesia (MUA)were analyzed via a chi-square test.Results: No statistically significant postoperative differences were observed between groups: PJI (p-value = 0.904), revision TKA (p-value= 0.206), and MUA (p-value= 0.163). The temporal subgroups also failed to demonstrate a statistically significant result: PJI (p-value= 0.348), revision TKA (p-value= 0.701), and MUA (p-value= 0.512).Conclusions: This study revealed no absolute or temporal association between preoperative, intra-articular corticosteroid injections and complications after TKA. Because these injections are a commonly used treatment modality prior to TKA, further studies should be conducted on a nationwide basis to draw more concrete conclusions.
Improvement of Bromide Ion Conduction in Lanthanum Oxybromide Based Solids by Doping Divalent Zinc Ion with High Electronegativity
Authors: Misran Muhammad Radzi Iqbal Bin , Nunotani Naoyoshi , Tamura Shinji , Imanaka Nobuhito
Published: May 2020

The authors have removed this preprint from Research Square.
The Kickstart Walk Assist System for Improving Balance and Walking Function in Stroke Survivors: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Yao Jiajia , Sado Takashi , Wang Wenli , Gao Jiawen , Zhao Yichao , Qi Qi , Mukherjee Mukul
Published: May 2020

Background: Compared with traditional physical therapy for stroke patients, lower extremity exoskeletons can provide patients with greater endurance and more repeatable and controllable training, which can reduce the therapeutic burden of the therapist. However, most exoskeletons are expensive, heavy or require active power to be operated. Therefore, a lighter, easy to wear, easy to operate, low-cost technology for gait rehabilitation in stroke survivors would be a welcome opportunity for stroke survivors, caregivers and clinicians. One such device is the Kickstart Walk Assist system and the purpose of this study was to determine feasibility of using this unpowered exoskeleton device in a sample of stroke survivors.Methods: Thirty stroke survivors were enrolled in the study and experienced walking with the Kickstart exoskeleton device that provided spring-loaded assistance during gait. After 5 days of wearing the exoskeleton, participants were evaluated in the two states of wearing and not wearing the exoskeleton. Outcome measures included: a) gait measures, b) balance measures and c) exoskeleton-use feedback questionnaire.Results: In comparison to not wearing the device, wearing the Kickstart Walk Assist system, weight bearing asymmetry was reduced. The time spent on the 10-meter walk test was reduced, but there was no difference in the timed-up-and-go test (TUGT). Gait analysis data showed reduction in step time and double support time. Stroke survivors were positive about the Kickstart Walk Assist system’s ability to improve their balance, speed and gait. In addition, their confidence level and willingness to use the device was also positive.Conclusions: These findings show the feasibility of using the Kickstart Walk Assist system for improving walking performance in stroke survivors. Our future goal is to perform a longer duration study with more comprehensive pre- and post-testing in a larger sample of stroke survivors.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000032665. Registered 5 May 2020 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=53288
Imported Mansonella Perstans Infection in Spain.
Authors: Puente Sabino , Lago Mar , Subirats Mercedes , Sanz-Esteban Ismael , Arsuaga Marta , Vicente Belen , Alonso-Sardon Montserrat , Belhassen-Garcia Moncef , Muro Antonio
Published: May 2020

Background: Mansonella perstans infection can be considered one of the most neglected tropical infectious diseases. Very few studies have reported on the clinical picture caused by infection with this nematode. Methods: The present study evaluated a large cohort of migrants who have been diagnosed, examined and treated for imported M. perstans infection at a Spanish reference center (Hospital Carlos III Tropical Medicine Unit, Madrid). Results: Five hundred three cases of migrants from tropical and subtropical areas with M. perstans infection were identified. Two hundred sixty-four patients were female (52.5%). The mean age (±SD) was 44.6±18.2 years (range, 16–93 years). The mean time (±SD) between the arrival in Spain and the first consultation was 8.618.0 months. The origin of the patients was Equatorial Guinea (97.6%). Regarding the clinical picture, 257 patients were asymptomatic (54.7%) and 228 were symptomatic (45.3%); 190 patients had pruritus (37.8%), 50 (9.9%) had arthralgia, 18 patients had Calabar-like swelling (3.6%), and 15 (3%) had abdominal pain. Four hundred forty-two (87.9%) migrants had hyper-IgE, and 340 (67.6%) had eosinophilia. One hundred ninety-five patients had coinfections with other filarial nematodes (38.8%), and 308 migrants had only M. perstans infection (61.2%). Four hundred thirty-seven cases (86.9%) had been treated with anti-filarial drugs: 292 cases were treated with one anti-filarial drug, and 145 cases were treated with combined anti-filarial therapy. No significant differences were found in the healing outcomes (p>0.05). Additionally, 20 (4%) cases received steroids and 38 (7.6%) cases received antihistamines. The combined anthelmintics and steroid treatment presented significantly better results (p=0.042); however, no significant results were noted for the combined anthelmintic and antihistamine treatment (p=0.191). No statistical association was found between the percentage of side effects to treatment and cases healed (p=0.094). Conclusions: A long series of M. perstans infections is presented in sub-Saharan immigrants whose data indicate that it should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients with pruritus or analytical alterations such as eosinophilia or hyper-IgE presentation, and they also have a high number of coinfections with other microorganisms whose treatment needs to be protocolized.
Brain Spect Perfusion and Pet Metabolism as Discordant Biomarkers in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Tastevin Maud , Boyer Laurent , Korchia Theo , Fond Guillaume , Lançon Christophe , Richieri Raphaëlle , Guedj Eric
Published: May 2020

Background:Brain SPECT perfusion and PET metabolism have been, most often interchangeably, proposed to study the underlying pathological process in major depressive disorder (MDD). The objective of this study is to document similarities and inconsistencies between these two biomarkersaccording to global characteristics of the disease.We conducted a retrospective pilot study in 16 patients sufferingfrom MDDwho underwent, during a same current episode, a cerebral perfusion SPECT with 99mTc-HMPAO and a metabolic PETwith a 18F-FDG. Whole-brain voxel-based SPM(T) maps were generated in correlation with the number of depressive episodes and in correlation with the depression duration, separately for the two exams (p-voxel and p-cluster<0.005, uncorrected).Results:No significant correlations were found between brain PET metabolism and either the number of depressive episodes or the duration of the disease. On the contrary, significant correlations were found with SPECT perfusion: the increased number of depressive episodes was correlated with decreased perfusion of the right insula cortex; the increased depression duration was correlated with bilateral decreased perfusion of the anterior cingulum cortex. Conclusions:The study demonstrates that brain perfusion and glucose metabolismare not equivalent biomarkers inMDD,highlighting the value of brain perfusion SPECT despite less favorable instrumentation detection compared to metabolic PET.
Predictors of Depressive Symptoms and Mental Health Problems in Formal and Informal Caregivers of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Sołtys Anna , Tyburski Ernest
Published: May 2020

Background: To date, differences in the functioning of formal and informal caregivers for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients have not been often analyzed. Paying proper attention to the problems of nursing home staff can help identify important risk factors. Therefore, the aims of this study were to (1) compare depressive symptoms and mental health problems in informal and formal caregivers and (2) examine the relationship between mental resources, depressive symptoms, and mental health problems in both groups of caregivers. Methods: This cross-sectional study examined 100 formal ( n = 50) and informal ( n = 50) caregivers of AD patients. Personal resources were measured with the Social Support Questionnaire, the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Sense of Coherence Questionnaire, while mental health was assessed with the Depression Assessment Questionnaire and the General Health Questionnaire. Multivariate stepwise regression was performed separately for both investigated groups. Results: Statistical analysis showed that comprehensibility was a significant predictor of depressive symptoms and self-efficacy was a significant predictor of mental health problems in informal caregivers. For formal caregivers, emotional support and comprehensibility were significant predictors of depressive symptoms, while tangible support and meaningfulness were significant predictors of mental health problems. Conclusions: Personal resources are significant predictors of depressive symptoms and mental health outcomes in caregivers of AD patients. Preventive actions should therefore include assessment of factors affecting caregivers’ mental health in order to provide them with necessary care and create appropriate support groups.
WITHDRAWN: Positive feedback between slug and Akt promotes hepatocellular carcinoma growth via CDK6 expression
Authors: LU XINLAN , ZHANG XU , YIN GUOZHI , CHEN YIFEI , WANG XIN , CAO YAN , LI YARUI , ZHAO YAN , GUO DAN , ZHU MENG , HE SHUIXIANG
Published: May 2020

Background
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rapidly growing tumor associated with a propensity for vascular invasion and metastasis, but the mechanism of HCC growth is not fully understood. The objective of this study is to investigate the role of the transcriptional repressor slug in HCC growth and its detailed mechanism.
Methods
Lentivirus-mediated slug overexpression as well as CRISPR/Cas9-mediated slug knockout were conducted in hepatic or HCC cells. Then cell growth was evaluated in culture dishes as well as nude mice xenografts. Transcriptome analysis was used to explore the detailed mechanism of slug-induced HCC growth.
Results
Slug significantly facilitated HCC growth in vitro and in vivo. Mechanism dissection via transcriptome analysis revealed that slug transcriptionally upregulated PIK3CD and PIK3R3 expression and then activated the Akt/CDK6 signaling pathway. Administration of either the PI3K/Akt signaling inhibitor MK2206 or the CDK4/6 inhibitor PD-0332991 abrogated slug-induced HCC growth. In addition, administration of MK2206 also suppressed slug expression in HCC cells. Immunohistochemistry staining indicated that Akt activity and CDK6 expression were significantly associated with slug expression in human HCC tissues.
Conclusions
Our study determined the promoting role of slug in HCC growth and revealed that the positive feedback between slug and Akt conferred HCC growth via CDK6 expression. The CDK4/6 inhibitor PD-0332991 might be a promising drug for slug/Akt-induced HCC growth.
Abdominal symptoms as an initial manifestation of COVID-19 infection: Report of two cases
Authors: YOKOO PATRÍCIA , Fonseca Eduardo Kaiser Ururahy Nunes , Filho Marcelo Oranges , Chate Rodrigo Caruso , Szarf Gilberto , Baroni Ronaldo Hueb
Published: May 2020

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic started in December 2019 in Wuhan (Hubei, China) and spread rapidly; therefore, it is essential to detect the disease at an early stage and immediately isolate the infected patients [1]. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 infection include fever, asthenia, cough and dyspnea [2]. However, some patients are asymptomatic from the respiratory symptoms, and may only present abdominal manifestations as an initial finding, what creates a diagnostic challenge.We describe two cases with diagnostic confirmations of COVID-19 who showed up at the Emergency Department with abdominal symptoms before presenting respiratory manifestations, and who had their initial suspicion based on the findings of the thoracoabdominal transition, demonstrating the importance of an adequate assessment of the lung base images.
COVID-19 lung alterations still evident at 60-day follow-up chest CT in asymptomatic patients despite negative rRT-PCR testing
Authors: Lanza Ezio , Profili Manuel , Bolengo Isabella , Santonocito Orazio Giuseppe , Muglia Riccardo , Lisi Costanza , Messana Gaia , Balzarini Luca
Published: May 2020

Several patients who have recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia showed persistent infection at follow-up chest CT (31-63 days after disease onset) despite being asymptomatic and testing negative at rRT-PCR.
COVID-19 associated meningoencephalitis complicated with intracranial hemorrhage. A case report.
Authors: Alolama Mohammad , Rashid Anas , Garozzo Debora
Published: May 2020

Introduction: The Coronavirus pandemic that started in December 2019 is mainly related to clinical pictures consistent with respiratory symptoms; nevertheless, reports about neurological complications have recently appeared in the medical literature.The case: we describe a case of a 36 years old Coronavirus-positive patient that was admitted on emergency basis; his clinical presentation included neurological symptoms such as drowsiness and mild confusion. Imaging revealed findings consistent with meningoencephalitis complicated by intracerebral hematoma and subdural hematoma. The latter was surgically evacuated after it became chronic and evidence of Coronavirus was found in the fluid. Conclusion: our experience confirms that neurological complications might be a likely event in COVID-19. Although uncommon, the possible occurrence of meningoencephalitis should be kept in mind by physicians involved in the management of COVID-19 patients. Early recognition of brain involvement may provide better prognosis, preventing evolution into intracerebral hemorrhagic events.
Development and characterization of 20 polymorphic microsatellite markers for the white-bellied pangolin Phataginus tricuspis (Mammalia, Pholidota)
Authors: Aguillon Samantha , Dipita Alain Din , Lecompte Emilie , Missoup Alain Didier , Tindo Maurice , Gaubert Philippe
Published: May 2020

Pangolins, or scaly anteaters, have recently been flagshiped as one of the most illegally traded mammals, and as a corollary, as potential intermediate hosts at the origin of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to improve the traceability of their trade, we developed 20 polymorphic microsatellite loci for the white-bellied pangolin (Phataginus tricuspis), the species most frequently found on African bushmeat markets. We genotyped 24 white-bellied pangolins from the Douala market, Cameroon, originating from the Ebo forest c. 75 km north-east of Douala. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 4 to 12 (mean=6.95), and mean observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.592 (0.208-0.875) and 0.671 (0.469-0.836), respectively. Genetic diversity was higher than that cross-estimated from microsatellite loci developed for other species of pangolins. Two loci deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and two loci showed linkage disequilibrium. Genetic variance (PCoA) was increased with the addition of 13 pangolins of unknown origin, possibly suggesting that the Douala market is fed from differentiated source populations of white-bellied pangolins. Each of the 37 individuals had a unique multilocus genotype. The unbiased probability of identity (uPI) and the probability of identity among siblings (PIsibs) were both very low (uPI=8.443 e-21; PIsibs=1.011 e-07). Only five microsatellite loci were needed to reach the conservative value of PIsibs < 0.01, overall indicating a powerful discriminating power of our combined loci. These 20 newly developed microsatellite loci might prove useful in tracing the local-to-global trade of the white-bellied pangolin, and will hopefully contribute to the DNA-assisted implementation of future conservation strategies at reasonable costs.
The miRNA-gene regulatory circuits in nSARS-CoV-2 and their potential correlations with pulmonary and thrombotic disorders
Authors: Khurana Pankaj , Gupta Apoorv , Sugadev Ragumani , Sharma Y K , Varshney Rajeev , Ganju Lilly , Kumar Bhuvnesh
Published: May 2020

In view of the worldwide spread of the novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (nSARS-CoV-2) infection pandemic situation, research to repurpose drugs, identify novel drug targets, vaccine candidates, diagnostic markers etc have created a new race to curb the disease. To uncover nSARS-CoV-2-related important biological features and understanding the molecular basis of this disease, network biology and miRNA-gene regulatory motif-based approach is used. 11 antiviral human-microRNAs (miRNAs) which can potentially target SARS-CoV-2 genes were collated; their direct miRNA interactors were identified and a comprehensive nSARS-CoV-2 responsive miRNA:Transcription Factor (TF):gene coregulatory network was built. 1385 miRNA:TF:gene tripartite, Feed-Forward Loops (FFLs) were identified from the network. The network topology was mapped into the biological space and the overrepresented pathways were identified. Four regulatory circuits: hsa-mir-9-5p-EP300-PLCB4, hsa-mir-324-3p-MYC-HLA-F, hsa-mir-1827-E2F1-CTSV and hsa-mir-1277-5p-SP1-CANX are identified. These miRNA-gene regulatory circuits are found to regulate signalling pathways like virus endocytosis, viral replication, inflammatory response, pulmonary vascularization, cell cycle control, virus spike protein stabilization, antigen presentation, etc. Some novel computational evidences for understanding nSARS-CoV-2 molecular mechanisms controlled by these regulatory circuits is put forth. The novel associations of miRNAs and genes identified with this infection are open for experimental validation. Further, these regulatory circuits also suggest potential correlations/similarity in the molecular mechanisms during nSARS-CoV-2 infection and pulmonary diseases and thromboembolic disorders. A detailed molecular snapshot of TGF-β signalling pathway as the common mechanism that could play an important role in controlling common pathophysiology i.e. systemic inflammation, increased pulmonary pressure, ground glass opacities, D-dimer overexpression is also put forth.
The Short-Term Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Spine Surgeons: A cross sectional global study
Authors: Khattab Mohamed Fawzy , Kannan Tareq M.A. , Morsi Ahmed , Al-Sabbagh Qussay , Hadidi Fadi , Al-Sabbagh Mohammed Qussay , M.Taha Muzahem , Bourghli Anouar , obeid ibrahim
Published: May 2020

Purpose: The outbreak of COVID-19 erupted in December 2019 in Wuhan-China. In a few weeks it progressed rapidly into a global pandemic which resulted in an overwhelming burden on health care systems, medical resources and staff.Spine surgeons as health care providers are no exception. In this study we try to highlight the impact of the crisis on spine surgeons in terms of knowledge, attitude, practice and socioeconomic BurdenMethods: This was global, multi-centric cross-sectional study on 781 spine surgeons that utilized an internet-based validated questionnaire to evaluate knowledge about COVID-19, availability of personal protective equipment (PEE), future perceptions, effect of this crisis on practice and psychological distress. Univariate and multivariate ordinal logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the predictors for the degree of COVID-19 effect on practice. Results: Overall, 20.2%, 52%, and 27.8% of the participants were affected minimally, intermediately, and hugely by COVID-19, respectively. Older ages (β= 0.33, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.56), orthopedic spine surgeons (β=0.30, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.61) and those who work in the private sector (β=0.05, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.61) were the most affected by COVID-19. Those who work in university hospitals (β=-0.36, 95% CI 0.00 to -0.71) were affected the least. The availability of N95 masks (47%) and disposable eye protectors or face shields (39.4%) was significantly associated with lower psychological stress (p=0.01). Only (6.9%), (3.7%), and (5%) had mild, moderate and severe mental distress, respectively.Conclusion: While it is important to recognize the short-term impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of spine surgery, predicting where we will be standing in 6-12 months remains difficult and unknown. The COVID-19 crisis will probably have an unexpected long-term impact on lives and economies.
Effect of high- and low-pressure circulation patterns above mid-latitudes on the incidence of SARS-COV-2 across wider European sector during early spring 2020
Authors: Kučera Marek , Kyriazopoulos Athanasios , Kučera Peter
Published: May 2020

The presented paper evaluates SARS-CoV-2 in relation to high-, neutral and low- pressure zones above mid-latitudes (North Atlantic Oscillation/NAO and Arctic Oscillation/AO phases) and simultaneous effects of 8 meteorological elements across Europe and its wider region during early spring 2020. Data of national daily incidence of SARS-CoV-2 (for 86 countries and dependent territories) were correlated with daily values of 8 meteorological elements in 137 representative cities for 3 periods before an incidence day corresponding to incubation time of SARS-CoV-2. Period 0-9th day represented negative, period 5-14th day neutral and period 10-19th day positive NAO/AO pattern. Incubation time in last period was shifted, because some cases were linked to longer waiting for results of testing or in later course of SARS-CoV-2. Patterns linked with high-, neutral and low- pressure zones above mid-latitudes were outlined. Results have shown that, during the high-pressure pattern above mid-latitudes, lower precipitation, higher pressure, weaker wind, higher sunshine, higher diurnal temperature range (higher maximum and lower minimum temperatures) were very unfavorable for incidence of SARS-CoV-2 (more cases) and that, during the low-pressure pattern above mid-latitudes, lower pressure, higher wind and less than NAO+ lower precipitation, higher sunshine and higher diurnal temperature range (mainly higher maximum temperatures) were unfavorable. For comparison these results were outputted with circulation conditions NCEP/NCAR reanalysis. During NAO+, precipitation and wind/minimum temperatures, precipitation and pressure; during NAO-, minimum temperatures, wind and sunshine/maximum, minimum and average temperatures, precipitation, sunshine and snow cover have the most simultaneous same/opposite effects.
Black Plastic Tarps Advance Organic Reduced Tillage II: Impact on Weeds and Beet Yield
Authors: Rylander Haley , Rangarajan Anusuya , Maher Ryan M. , Hutton Mark G. , Rowley Nicholas W. , McGrath Margaret T. , Sexton Zachary F.
Published: May 2020

Organic vegetable farmers rely on intensive tillage to control weeds, incorporate amendments and residues, and prepare seedbeds. Intensive tillage, however, can lead to a decrease in long-term soil health. Placing opaque plastic tarps on the soil surface weeks or months before planting can reduce weed pressure and may facilitate organic reduced tillage strategies, but few studies have documented tarp effects on crop productivity. The effect of tarp duration and tillage intensity on weeds and beet crop yields (cultivar Boro) was evaluated at three locations (Freeville, NY; Riverhead, NY; and Monmouth, ME), for two planting dates and over 2 years (2017 and 2018), resulting in a total of 10 experiments. Tarps were applied for three durations before projected planting dates: 1) 10+ weeks (long), 2) 6 to 8 weeks (mid), and 3) 3 to 5 weeks (short), then compared with an untarped control (none). Three levels of tillage intensity were applied after tarp removal: 1) 10 to 20 cm (conventional till), 2) 3 to 8 cm (reduced till), and 3) left undisturbed (no till), to understand interactions between tillage intensity and tarping. Tarp use of three or more weeks lowered weed biomass for several weeks after beet planting and at-harvest across most locations and years, but tarp duration beyond 3 weeks did not result in further reductions. Tarp use lowered at-harvest weed biomass and increased crop yield for reduced- and no-till systems with results similar to conventional-till. Tarping for 3 weeks could improve the viability of reduced- and no-till approaches for organic vegetable production.
Pollination Compatibility and Xenia in Camellia oleifera
Authors: Hu Guanxing , Gao Chao , Fan Xiaoming , Gong Wenfang , Yuan Deyi
Published: May 2020

Camellia oleifera, a major woody oil plant, has a low oil yield because of self-incompatibility. For commercial oil production, compatible pollen and optimal cross-pollination combinations are required. To evaluate the effects of pollination compatibility and pollen source on oil yield and quality, four C. oleifera cultivars—Huashuo (HS), Huajin (HJ), Huaxin (HX), and Xianglin XLC15 (XL)—were subjected to self-, cross-, and natural pollination. Pollen compatibility, oil yield, and quality indices were analyzed. There were no significant differences in pollen germination and tube growth between self- and cross-pollination. Following self-pollination, fertilization was unsuccessful, resulting in severe ovule dysplasia; cross-pollination decreased the ovule abortion rate. Pollen source significantly affected the fruit set, fruit traits, seed traits, and fatty acid content, implying xenia in C. oleifera. In cross-pollinated plants, HX pollen produced more seeds, and HJ pollen increased linoleic acid content relative to naturally pollinated plants. For the XL and HS combinations, linolenic acid contents were significantly higher than other pollination combinations. However, oleic acid content was not significantly affected by pollen source, in any of the cultivars. Cultivar HX was, therefore, the most effective pollen donor, and HS × HX was the optimal cross-pollination combination for improving oil yield and sustainability.
ENHANCING EFFICIENCY OF USING ENERGY RESOURCES IN HEAT SUPPLY SYSTEMS OF BUILDINGS WITH VARIABLE OPERATION MODE
Authors: Klymchuk Oleksandr , Denysova Alla , Balasanian Gennadiy , Ivanova Lidiia
Published: May 2020

As a research result, characteristic indicators of the efficiency of using various heat sources in combined heat supply systems were determined. During the study, various schemes for integrating heat accumulators in heat supply systems were considered. Water was used as a battery, which also acts as a coolant. Mathematical modeling of processes in combined heat supply systems using intermittent heating is carried out. The characteristic operating modes of the elements of heat supply systems that take into account the operating modes of heat consumers are determined. Mathematical modeling was carried out using a software package that allows to obtain the distribution of heat power of the heat supply system by its main elements and its characteristic operation modes. According to the research results, a coefficient of thermal power reduction and a coefficient of efficiency of using the heat accumulator volume were proposed. These coefficients allow to evaluate the efficiency of heat sources and the efficiency of using the volume of the heat storage tank. Based on the obtained data, the task was set to optimize the daily load of the heat source, taking into account the installation of the storage tank.

The research results can be used for the reconstruction of heat supply systems of buildings with a two-period operation mode (operation duty) using both traditional and renewable heat sources. This will significantly increase the efficiency of the use of elements of the heat supply system, even out the daily heat generation schedule and increase the service life of the main equipment
CUMHURBAŞKANLIĞI KARARNAMELERİNİN NORMLAR HİYERARŞİSİNDEKİ YERİ VE DENETİMİNDE MADDİ İÇERİK KRİTERİ
Authors: GÜNEŞ Mehmet
Published: May 2020

Bir hukuk düzeninde tüm normların eşit değerde olmadığı ve birbirleriyle hiyerarşik bir ilişkide bulunduğu, bu şekilde normlar arasında genellik, geçerlilik ilişkisinin kurulabileceğini ileri süren normlar piramidi veya hiyerarşisi düşüncesi pozitivist hukuk anlayışının bir uzantısıdır. Yürütmeyi temsil eden Cumhurbaşkanınca çıkarılan “Cumhurbaşkanlığı kararnameleri”nin de bir norm olarak benzer şekilde Anayasada diğer normlar karşısındaki yerinin tespit edilmesi, gittikçe önem kazanmaktadır. Anayasadaki son değişiklerle Cumhurbaşkanlığı kararnameleri standart bir şekilde düzenlenmediğinden, normlar hiyerarşisindeki yeri konusunda farklı görüşler ileri sürülebilir. Şekli veya organik kritere göre Cumhurbaşkanlığı kararnamelerinin, Anayasada kanunlardan sonra geldiğine ilişkin kabul eksik ve hatalı sonuçlar doğurmaktadır. Özellikle Olağanüstü dönemlerde çıkarılanlar ile olağan dönemde çıkarılanlar, düzenleyici nitelikte olanlar ile birel nitelikte olanlar başta olmak üzere tek Cumhurbaşkanlığı kararnamesi türünden bahsetmek olanaksızdır. Dolayısıyla Cumhurbaşkanlığı kararnamelerinin, normlar hiyerarşisinde sadece ismine bakılarak yapılacak değerlendirme ve denetlemelerindeki sorunları düzeltmek için bu kararnamelerin maddi içeriğine bakılarak karar verilmesi gerektiği önerilmektedir. Bu çalışmada Cumhurbaşkanlığı kararnamelerinin maddi içeriği itibarıyla ele alınarak normlar hiyerarşisindeki yerini belirlemek gerektiğini ancak bu şekilde hukuki karmaşa ve kaosun önlenebileceğine ilişkin çeşitli hukuki değerlendirmeler yapılmaktadır.
Hacia la universidad moderna y eficaz
Authors: OJS Administrador
Published: May 2020

No tiene resumen
El destino histórico de la clase media
Authors: Zevallos Vera Manuel
Published: May 2020

No tiene
Cuando las leyes guardan silencio
Authors: Mejía Alarcón Roberto
Published: May 2020

No tiene
Derecho Cooperativo y Justicia Social
Authors: Reyes Huerta Daniel
Published: May 2020

No tiene
Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğu Olan Bireylere İletişim Becerilerinin Öğretiminde Uzaktan Aile Eğitim Uygulamaları
Authors: KİZİR Mine
Published: May 2020

Bu çalışmanın amacı, Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğu (OSB) olan çocuğa sahip ailelere, çocuklarına iletişim becerilerini kazandırmalarına yardımcı olacak uzaktan aile eğitim uygulamalarını içeren araştırmalara yönelik sistematik bir bilgi sunmaktır. Bu amaçla, 2000-2018 yılları arasında yapılan uzaktan aile eğitim uygulamalarına ilişkin yürütülen araştırmalar alanyazın üzerinden taranmış ve ulaşılan dokuz çalışma “özetleyici derleme” türünde sunulmuştur. Ulaşılan araştırmalar; katılımcı özellikleri (yaş, cinsiyet, tanı), bağımlı-bağımsız değişken, araştırma modeli, kullanılan yazılım programı veya teknolojik araçlar, aile eğitim uygulama süreci, geçerlik-güvenirlik, izleme-genelleme, bulgular, etki büyüklüğü ve sonuçlarına ilişkin özellikler bakımından incelenmişlerdir. Sonuçlar, uygulanan programların hedeflenen beceriler üzerinde olumlu etkiye sahip olduğunu göstermektedir. Araştırmaların sunulan bulguları ışığında, katılımcı ebeveynlerin hedeflenen öğretim yöntemini uygulama becerisini kazandıkları görülmektedir. Katılımcı çocukların ise büyük oranda hedeflenen iletişim becerilerini sergileyebildikleri belirlenmiştir. Araştırmalarda uygulanan programların sosyal geçerliklerinin de yüksek olduğu ifade edilmiştir.
Quantification of climate change and land cover/use transition impacts on runoff variations in the upper Hailar Basin, NE China
Authors: Yan Yuhui , Xue Baolin , A Yinglan , Sun Wenchao , Zhang Hanwen
Published: May 2020

Quantification of runoff change is vital for water resources management, especially in arid or semiarid areas. This study used the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) distributed hydrological model to simulate runoff in the upper reaches of the Hailar Basin (NE China) and to analyze quantitatively the impacts of climate change and land-use change on runoff by setting different scenarios. Two periods, i.e., the reference period (before 1988) and the interference period (after 1988), were identified based on long-term runoff datasets. In comparison with the reference period, the contribution rates of both climate change and land-use change to runoff change in the Hailar Basin during the interference period were 83.58% and 16.42%, respectively. The simulation analysis of climate change scenarios with differential precipitation and temperature changes suggested that runoff changes are correlated positively with precipitation change and that the impact of precipitation change on runoff is stronger than that of temperature. Under different economic development scenarios adopted, land use was predicted to have a considerable impact on runoff. The expansion of forests within the basin might induce decreased runoff owing to enhanced evapotranspiration.