bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A COVID-19 case report from asymptomatic contact: implication for contact isolation and incubation management
Authors: Zhu Chang-Qiang , Gao Shi-Ding , Xu Yan , Yang Xiao-Hong , Ye Fu-Qiang , Ai Le-Le , Lv Rui-Chen , Zhang Bin , Li Yin , Lv Heng , Liu Yun-Sheng , Shi Chun-Meng , Wang Chun-Hui , Tan Wei-Long
Published: June 2020

Background

As of 2 March, 2020, at least 80 151 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases were reported in China. Most of the patients had a history of visiting Hubei Province or contacting with people who had ever stayed in or passed by Hubei Province or were exposed to symptoms. Some patients got infected through only asymptomatic contact. This study aimed to report the epidemic features and lab identification of a patient confirmed with COVID-19 infection through only asymptomatic contact.

Case presentation

A 44-year-old man, who lived in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China until 6 March 2020, suffered from cough on 27 January 2020. Fever symptoms appeared on 28 January, with a maximum temperature of 38.8 °C, accompanied by cough, sore throat, headache, fatigue, muscle ache, joint ache, and other symptoms. The symptoms continued until he was hospitalized on 30 January. Coronavirus conventional polymerase chain reaction assay was positive for the throat swab sample. The patient, along with his wife and son, drove from Nanchang to back to Honghu City, Hubei Province, on 23 January 2020. After staying with his parents and brother’s family for 3 days, the patient drove back to Nanchang and arrived on 25 January. On the way back home, they stopped by Tongshan service area, Hubei Province, without any close contact with other people. After arriving home in Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, none of them left their residence. In addition, his parents stayed at home for 20 days with his younger brother’s family before they got back. His younger brother and one of his brother’s children visited Wuhan on 5 January and came home on 6 January 2020.

Conclusions

This report suggested that, in the early phase of COVID-19 pneumonia, routine screening could miss patients who were virus carriers. Highlighting travel history is of paramount importance for the early detection and isolation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 cases.
Phosphorylation and oligomerization of α-synuclein associated with GSK-3β activation in the rTg4510 mouse model of tauopathy
Authors: Takaichi Yuta , Chambers James K. , Inoue Hiroyuki , Ano Yasuhisa , Takashima Akihiko , Nakayama Hiroyuki , Uchida Kazuyuki
Published: June 2020

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the accumulation of specific phosphorylated protein aggregates in the brain, such as hyperphosphorylated tau (hp-tau) in tauopathies and phosphorylated α-synuclein (p-αSyn) in α-synucleinopathies. The simultaneous accumulation of different proteins is a common event in many neurodegenerative diseases. We herein describe the detection of the phosphorylation and dimerization of αSyn and activation of GSK-3β, a major kinase known to phosphorylate tau and αSyn, in the brains of rTg4510 mice that overexpress human P301L mutant tau. Immunohistochemistry showed p-αSyn aggregates in rTg4510 mice, which were suppressed by doxycycline-mediated decreases in mutant tau expression levels. A semi-quantitative analysis revealed a regional correlation between hp-tau and p-αSyn accumulation in rTg4510 mice. Furthermore, proteinase K-resistant αSyn aggregates were found in the region with excessive hp-tau accumulation in rTg4510 mice, and these aggregates were morphologically different from proteinase K-susceptible p-αSyn aggregates. Western blotting revealed decreases in p-αSyn monomers in TBS- and sarkosyl-soluble fractions and increases in ubiquitinated p-αSyn dimers in sarkosyl-soluble and insoluble fractions in rTg4510 mice. Furthermore, an activated form of GSK-3β was immunohistochemically detected within cells containing both hp-tau and p-αSyn aggregates. A semi-quantitative analysis revealed that increased GSK-3β activity strongly correlated with hp-tau and p-αSyn accumulation in rTg4510 mice. Collectively, the present results suggest that the overexpression of human P301L mutant tau promoted the phosphorylation and dimerization of endogenous αSyn by activating GSK-3β in rTg4510 mice. This synergic effect between tau, αSyn, and GSK-3β may be involved in the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases that show the accumulation of both tau and αSyn.
Effects of afforestation of agricultural land with grey alder (Alnus incana (L.) Moench) on soil chemical properties, comparing two contrasting soil groups
Authors: Nikodemus Oļģerts , Kaupe Dārta , Kukuļs Imants , Brūmelis Guntis , Kasparinskis Raimonds , Dauškane Iluta , Treimane Agita
Published: June 2020

Background

Natural afforestation of former agricultural lands with alder species is common in Europe. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation by actinomycetes associated with alder species has been widely used for improvement of soil properties of abandoned agricultural lands, but relatively little is known of the interactions of these processes with soil type and chemical composition. We conducted a space-for time study with soil sampling under and outside grey alder tree canopies on two different soil groups to explore effects of colonisation of former agricultural lands by alder on soil properties.

Results

The results were analysed using analysis of variance. During the first 25 years after afforestation of former agricultural lands there was a significant increase in content of Ctot, Ntot, K+, Fe3+, Mn2+ and available P in the topsoil (0–10 cm and 11–20 cm) of Dystric Arenosols soils, which are deficient in organic matter. Such trends were not evident in organic matter rich Endostagnic Umbrisols soils, in which exchangeable K+ concentration decreased and exchangeable Fe3+ and Al3+ concentration increased.

Conclusions

The results show that the effects of grey alder on soil chemical properties depend on initial soil properties. The invasion of agricultural land by grey alder leads to spatial variability of soil chemical properties creating a mosaic pattern.
Invasive solid papillary carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation of the breast: a case report and literature review
Authors: Lin Xue , Matsumoto Yoshiaki , Nakakimura Tomomi , Ono Kazuo , Umeoka Shigeaki , Torii Masae , Yoshibayashi Hiroshi , Toi Masakazu
Published: June 2020

Background

Solid papillary carcinoma (SPC) of the breast is a rare breast cancer that accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancers. The optimal clinical management of SPC remains controversial. Here, we report a case of invasive SPC with neuroendocrine differentiation in addition to review of the current literature.

Case presentation

A premenopausal 46-year-old female presented with a mass in her left breast that tended to increase in size over a 10-month period. Mammography and ultrasonography revealed a mass in the left upper-inner quadrant. The resulting images suggested a category 3 breast tumor according to the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS). A core needle biopsy (CNB) was performed, and the pathological findings showed a solid papillary pattern and atypical cells suggestive of noninvasive SPC. After a left partial mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), the specimens were sent for histopathological analysis for further investigation. Postoperative pathological findings suggested invasive SPC. Whole-breast radiation therapy and adjuvant hormonal therapy were performed as postoperative treatments. Three years after surgery, multiple lung metastases were detected, and the patient was treated with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and an aromatase inhibitor. Five months later, multiple liver metastases and bone metastases appeared, and oral 5-fluorouracil was chosen for the subsequent treatment. The patient has been treated for 5 years to date, and she is continuing to take oral 5-fluorouracil and is alive without any further disease progression.

Conclusions

We report a rare case of premenopausal invasive SPC with multiple metastases. Further study is needed to clarify the molecular characteristics and clinical behaviors of SPC and to explore the optimal treatment strategy.
Comparison of efficiency between platelet rich plasma and corticosteroid injection therapies in patients with Carpal tunnel syndrome: a prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Hashim Noha Ali , Fathy Hala Ahmed , Esawy Marwa Mohammed , Shabana Marwa Ahmed
Published: June 2020

Background

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common upper limb entrapment neuropathy caused by compression of the median nerve as it traverses the wrist at the carpal tunnel.

Objectives

To compare the effect of single dose of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injected locally with that of corticosteroid in patients with CTS.

Subjects and methods

A total of 60 patients with very mild to moderate unilateral CTS were recruited to the study. PRP was prepared via two centrifugation procedures. The patients were randomly divided into three groups PRP [i] group, PRP [ii] group, and a third group that received local corticosteroid injection (CS). The patients were followed up at 1.5 and 3 months by visual analog scale (VAS) for pain assessment. The severity and functional outcomes were evaluated through Boston CTS, and neurophysiological analyses were carried out.

Results

On comparing the PRP [i], PRP [ii], and CS groups, a statistically significant enhancement of all outcome variables was observed in both PRP groups at follow-up except VAS at 3 and 6 months (P= 0.073 andP= 0.068, respectively) in PRP [ii] group.

Conclusion

In CTS, PRP was a better treatment alternative with respect to pain and functional outcome. In addition, it was associated well with improved neurophysiological values than those observed after corticosteroid injection.

Trial registration

Zagazig University, ZU-IRB#5014. Registered 18 December 2018, http://www.IRB_123@medicine.zu.edu.eg. ISRCTN Registry,ISRCTN16755281; 20 March 2020
3-h drain clamping is not effective to reduce total blood loss after primary total knowledge
Authors: Park Dojoon , Choi Youn Ho , Cho Kwang Hyun , Koh Hae Seok
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a clinically efficacious surgical option for end-stage knee osteoarthritis. However, TKA increases the risk of serious bleeding and blood transfusion. The objective of this study was to evaluate the difference in postoperative blood loss in groups subjected to 3 h of clamping and non-clamping and determine the variations in rate and amount of transfusion after TKA between the two groups.

Materials and methods

Propensity score matching of the group subjected to 3-h drain clamping (43 patients; September 2015 to April 2016) and the control group (43 patients; before initiating the clamping method) was performed in patients undergoing unilateral primary posterior stabilized TKA. The two groups were compared. We measured the total drained blood volume until the drain was removed 48 h after surgery, and we compared the preoperative levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit with levels observed on days 1 and 2 after surgery. We also determined the blood transfusion rate and volume as well as the occurrence of clamping-associated complications.

Results

In the group subjected to 3-h drain clamping, the mean volume of total drained blood was significantly lower than in the control group (333.8 ± 190.2 mL vs. 839.9 ± 339.8 mL, P <0.001). There was no significant difference in total blood loss between the two groups (1226.9 ± 488.1 mL vs. 1127.1 ± 424.5 mL, P = 0.315), but the hidden blood loss was significantly higher in the 3-h drain clamping group than in the control group (893.1 ± 487.7 mL vs. 294.7 ± 531.8 mL, P <0.001). Both the transfusion rate and amount in the 3-h drain clamped group were higher than in the control group but were not statistically significant (30.2% vs. 37.2%, P = 0.494 and 269.8 ± 483.8 mL vs. 316.3 ± 158.2 mL, P = 0.648, respectively). No significant differences in complications, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary thromboembolism, and oozing, were noted between the two groups (all, P = 1.000).

Conclusions

The 3-h drain clamping method after primary TKA using posterior stabilized implant reduced the loss of postoperative drained blood. However, hidden blood loss was significantly higher in the 3-h drain clamping group; as a result, there were no differences in total blood loss and transfusion rate. The clamping method did not significantly alter the complication rate.
Determination of bacteriocin-encoding genes of lactic acid bacteria isolated from traditional dairy products of Luxor province, Egypt
Authors: Refay Rasha Mohamed , Abushady Hala Mohamed , Amer Sara Adel , Mailam Mahmoud Ahmed
Published: June 2020

Background

Researchers have focused on isolating and identifying the bacteriocin producing lactic acid bacteria from various food systems especially dairy products. Molecular techniques have been recently used for rabid identification of bacteriocins rather than time-consuming biochemical characters. Global climate disturbances can affect the diversity of beneficial microorganisms in dairy and their products, especially lactic acid bacteria, so it is worth to evaluate their bacteriocinogenicity in different climates. Thus, the aim of this study was to screen for predominant bacteriocin producing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in traditional dairy products of Luxor governorate at Upper Egypt and determine their bacteriocin-encoding genes.

Results

Eighty-six strains of the LAB were isolated from raw milk and traditional dairy product of Luxor province, Egypt, in which 76.1% and 23.9% were identified as lactic acid bacilli and cocci, respectively. On the basis of their antibacterial potentials, 30 out of 68 LAB isolates were found to be antimicrobial producers. These isolates exhibited a potential antibacterial activity against Salmonella paratyphi B, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus mirabilis, except for Listeria monocytogenes. LAB isolates were analyzed using species-specific PCR; results emphasized that 22 of isolates were identified as Lactobacillus plantarum, while 8 were Leuconostoc mesenteroides. According to the sequencing of isolates, two strains named Lactobacillus plantarum Egypt 2018 (accession no. MH817034) and Leuconostoc mesenteroides Egypt 2018 (accession no. MH817035) were identified. Detection of bacteriocin-encoding genes was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results emphasized that almost all tested Lb. plantarum strains (n = 10) possess both plnA and plnEF genes, whereas the gene encoding mesentericin Y105 was detected in one Lc. mesenteroides of the examined isolates.

Conclusions

This study was effective for the rapid detection of bacteriocin producing strains within dairy products. Extracted bacteriocin could be a valuable source of natural food biopreservative.
An efficient and robust scheme for the implementation of eigenstructure-based coherency algorithms
Authors: Zhao Xiaowei , Wang Shangxu , Yuan Sanyi , Xu Cuiyun , Wang Tieyi
Published: June 2020

The coherence attribute has been widely used to detect faults and channels as well as other structural and stratigraphic discontinuities since its introduction. Currently, the most commonly used algorithm for coherence computation is the eigenstructure-based coherence method (C3). When seismic data are of a low signal-to-noise ratio, more traces should be involved in coherence computation to improve the robustness to noise; thus, a larger analysis window shall be used. However, this will lead to increased time costs and blurred coherence images. To address these issues, we have adopted a modified eigenstructure-based coherency algorithm (C3m) based on an inverse distance weighting method and dimensionality reduction of the covariance matrix for eigendecomposition in the case of a large lateral analysis window whose size is larger than [Formula: see text] (nine traces). To further improve the computational efficiency, the add-drop algorithm is also used for covariance matrix construction. In the case of large analysis windows, the time cost by C3m is less than the time cost by C3 as demonstrated in synthetic and field data studies; also, the coherence results computed via C3m are superior to those computed via the traditional C3 method, and the new method is more favorable to seismic interpretation. Thus, our method shall be a potentially efficient and robust alternative to C3 for coherence attribute computation.
Comprehensive identification of CO2 nonhydrocarbon gas layers by relative CO2 content and apparent porosity calculated from well logs: A case study in the Baiyun deep-water area in the eastern South China Sea
Authors: Feng Jin , Zhao Bin , Gao Chuqiao , Shi Lei , Guan Yao , Li Zhaoping , Zhang Shunchao
Published: June 2020

The accurate identification of [Formula: see text] nonhydrocarbon gas layers plays an important role in the exploration and development of natural gas reservoirs. The logging response characteristics of layers containing nonhydrocarbon gas and hydrocarbon gas are very similar because there are gas fluids in both kinds of layers, which leads to the uncertainty in the interpretation results of gas types. We have developed a comprehensive method for the identification of [Formula: see text] nonhydrocarbon gas layers by using [Formula: see text]-relative content and apparent porosity. First, based on the formation component bulk volume model of the coexisting reservoir of the [Formula: see text] nonhydrocarbon gas layers and the hydrocarbon gas layers, we develop an optimization algorithm to quantitatively calculate the [Formula: see text] relative content in the reservoir. Second, by analyzing and determining the logging response value of the [Formula: see text] nonhydrocarbon gas under the formation temperature and pressure conditions, we establish a qualitative identification chart using the difference between the calculated value of the apparent porosity of [Formula: see text] and the hydrocarbon gas. Finally, we were able to accurately identify the [Formula: see text] nonhydrocarbon gas layers by comprehensively analyzing the calculation results of the [Formula: see text] relative content in the reservoir and the identification results of the [Formula: see text] apparent porosity identification chart. We apply the above workflow in the Baiyun deep-water area in the eastern South China Sea, and it shows high efficiency in the identification of [Formula: see text] nonhydrocarbon gas layers.
Evaluation of the matrix influence on the microscopic pore-throat structures of deep-water tight sandstone: A case study from the Upper Triassic Chang 6 oil group of the Yanchang Formation in the Huaqing area, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Chen Zhaobing , Zhou Chuangfei , Chen Xinjing , Zhu Yujie , Zhu Yushuang
Published: June 2020

Former studies have suggested that the matrix of clastic rocks is unfavorable for the storage-percolation of reservoirs. However, the contribution of the matrix to the microscopic pore-throat structures in deep-water tight sandstone cannot be ignored. Aiming at the deep-water tight sandstone of the Chang 6 reservoir in the Ordos Basin (China), we have evaluated the characteristics of the matrix and the secondary pores in the matrix based on a multiscale microscopic identification and testing method, to reveal the influence of the matrix on the types, distribution, and heterogeneity of the pore throats. The results show that, unlike cements, the composition of the matrix is complex, characterized by its poor crystal form with no cement generation relationship. The structure of the matrix components is not completely dense. Intercrystalline pores and dissolved matrix pores are developed in the matrix after diagenetic modification, with a pore diameter of 20–1000 nm. These pores form a complex matrix secondary pore network. The matrix controls the number and volume of 0–1 μm pore throats. The matrix is constructive to the distribution of pore throats when its content is ≤7%. This positive effect gradually decreases with the increase of the matrix content, intensifying the compaction of the reservoir. The matrix controls the heterogeneities of the pore throat structures in deep-water tight sandstone. Large pore throats are gradually separated and disintegrated into a large number of micro-/nanopores by the matrix with the increase of the matrix content. Meanwhile, the fractal dimensions approached 3, increasing the complexity of the pore structures. Therefore, the matrix is favorable and unfavorable to the microscopic pore throat structures of the reservoir. The matrix not only results in the loss of intergranular pores but also generates a large number of secondary micro-/nanopore throat networks with complex structures, constituting an effective space for hydrocarbon accumulation and percolation in deep-water tight sandstone.
The lateral plate mesoderm
Authors: Prummel Karin D. , Nieuwenhuize Susan , Mosimann Christian
Published: June 2020

The lateral plate mesoderm (LPM) forms the progenitor cells that constitute the heart and cardiovascular system, blood, kidneys, smooth muscle lineage and limb skeleton in the developing vertebrate embryo. Despite this central role in development and evolution, the LPM remains challenging to study and to delineate, owing to its lineage complexity and lack of a concise genetic definition. Here, we outline the processes that govern LPM specification, organization, its cell fates and the inferred evolutionary trajectories of LPM-derived tissues. Finally, we discuss the development of seemingly disparate organ systems that share a common LPM origin.
An interview with Ken Poss
Authors: Grewal Seema
Published: June 2020

Ken Poss is currently James B. Duke Professor of Cell Biology and Director of the Regeneration Next Initiative at Duke University. His lab aims to understand the mechanisms underlying vertebrate tissue regeneration, focusing on the heart, spinal cord and major appendages in zebrafish, which possess especially high regenerative capacity. Earlier this year, Ken joined the Development team as an Associate Editor, focusing on the field of regenerative biology. We caught up with Ken to find out more about his career, his research and why he decided to get involved with the journal.
Does selection for behavioral and physiological performance traits alter glucocorticoid responsiveness in bank voles?
Authors: Lipowska Małgorzata M. , Sadowska Edyta T. , Bauchinger Ulf , Goymann Wolfgang , Bober-Sowa Barbara , Koteja Paweł
Published: June 2020

One of the key elements of an animal's Darwinian fitness is its ability to adequately respond to and cope with challenging situations. Glucocorticoid hormones, such as corticosterone, affect the organism's ability to overcome the challenge. We hypothesized that changes in the glucocorticoid response curve contribute to the evolution of increased performance during challenging conditions, and tested it on bank voles (Myodes glareolus) from a multidirectional artificial selection experiment, which involves lines selected for high aerobic exercise metabolism achieved during swimming (A - Aerobic), predatory behavior towards a cricket (P - Predatory), and ability to maintain body mass on a low-quality herbivorous diet (H - Herbivorous), as well as unselected control lines (C - Control). We elicited a glucocorticoid response by either restraining an animal or by maximum pharmacological stimulation, and measured plasma corticosterone levels at baseline, during the response, and during the recovery phase. Females’ response-level corticosterone was higher, and recovery from maximal level was faster than that of males. Selection did not affect baseline or stress-induced corticosterone levels, but it decreased the maximum corticosterone level in Aerobic and Predatory lines, reducing the difference between stress-induced and maximum levels. Recovery from restraint-induced corticosterone level tended to be slower in the Herbivorous than in the other lines, an effect that was stronger in females than in males. In conclusion, successful selection for increased performance in challenging conditions was not associated with changes in absolute values of the glucocorticoid response to stress, but can affect other characteristics of the glucocorticoid response curve.
Fine sand particles enable antlions to build pitfall traps with advanced three-dimensional geometry
Authors: Devetak Dušan , Podlesnik Jan , Scharf Inon , Klenovšek Tina
Published: June 2020

Pit-building antlion larvae are predators that construct pitfall traps in fine sand. We used three-dimensional laser scanning and geometric morphometrics to reveal the shape of antlion pits of two antlion species, analysed the particle size composition of sands from the different natural habitats, and measured the slope angles of the pits of the two species. In most antlions, the pits are structured as a simple inverted cone, as in Myrmeleon hyalinus, studied here. The other antlion studied, Cueta lineosa, constructs a unique pit composed of two inverted truncated cones inserted into one another, which feature substantially steeper walls than the pits of any other antlion studied to date. Pit stability depends on the slope inclination, which oscillates between the maximum angle of stability and the angle of repose. The angles in C. linosa-substrates were larger than those in M. hyalinus. One reason for the steeper walls is the greater proportion of fine sand in the natural sand inhabited by C. lineosa. However, video-recording revealed that both the natural sand of C. lineosa and the finest sand tested had a higher maximum angle of stability than any of the other substrates studied here. Furthermore, experiments with pits built in different substrates revealed that the shape of the pit is variable and depends on the structure of the sand. M. hyalinus displayed a more flexible pit construction behaviour than C. lineosa. The present demonstration of such differences in pit characteristics contributes to understanding how these two species co-exist in the same habitat.
Brain size does not predict learning strategies in a serial reversal learning test
Authors: Boussard Annika , Buechel Séverine D , Amcoff Mirjam , Kotrschal Alexander , Kolm Niclas
Published: June 2020

Reversal learning assays are commonly used across a wide range of taxa to investigate associative learning and behavioural flexibility. In serial reversal learning, the reward contingency in a binary discrimination is reversed multiple times. Performance during serial reversal learning varies greatly at the interspecific level, as some animals adapt a rule-based strategy that enables them to switch quickly between reward contingencies. Enhanced learning ability and increased behavioural flexibility generated by a larger relative brain size has been proposed to be an important factor underlying this variation. Here we experimentally test this hypothesis at the intraspecific level. We use guppies (Poecilia reticulata) artificially selected for small and large relative brain size, with matching differences in neuron number, in a serial reversal learning assay. We tested 96 individuals over ten serial reversals and found that learning performance and memory were predicted by brain size, whereas differences in efficient learning strategies were not. We conclude that variation in brain size and neuron number is important for variation in learning performance and memory, but these differences are not great enough to cause the larger differences in efficient learning strategies observed at higher taxonomic levels.
Nitric oxide produced by periostial hemocytes modulates the bacterial infection induced reduction of the mosquito heart rate
Authors: Estévez-Lao Tania Y. , Sigle Leah T. , Gomez Scherly N. , Hillyer Julián F.
Published: June 2020

The circulatory and immune systems of mosquitoes are functionally integrated. An infection induces the migration of hemocytes to the dorsal vessel, and specifically, to the regions surrounding the ostia of the heart. These periostial hemocytes phagocytose pathogens in the areas of the hemocoel that experience the highest hemolymph flow. Here, we investigated whether a bacterial infection affects cardiac rhythmicity in the African malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. We discovered that infection with Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, but not Micrococcus luteus, reduces the mosquito heart rate and alters the proportional directionality of heart contractions. Infection does not alter the expression of genes encoding crustacean cardioactive peptide (CCAP), FMRFamide, corazonin, neuropeptide F or short neuropeptide F, indicating that they do not drive the cardiac phenotype. Infection tepidly upregulates the transcription of two superoxide dismutase (SOD) genes, catalase and a glutathione peroxidase, but it induces the dramatic upregulation of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in both the heart and hemocytes. Within the heart, nitric oxide synthase is produced by periostial hemocytes, and chemically inhibiting the production of nitric oxide using L-NAME reverses the infection-induced cardiac phenotype. Finally, infection induces the upregulation of two lysozyme genes in the heart and other tissues, and treating mosquitoes with lysozyme reduces the heart rate in a manner reminiscent of the infection phenotype. These data demonstrate an exciting new facet of the integration between the immune and circulatory systems of insects, whereby a hemocyte-produced factor with immune activity, namely nitric oxide, modulates heart physiology.
MAIN INDICATORS OF SURGICAL PROFILE BED FUND OF THE ROUND-THE-CLOCK AND DAILY STAY HOSPITALS IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION AND ITS REGIONS
Authors: Mel'nikov Yuriy , Bant'eva M. , Manoshkina E. , Kuznecova V.
Published: June 2020

From 2010 to 2018 the level of hospitalization in surgical beds in round-the-clock hospitals decreased (by 19.9%), while in the daily hospitals of medical organizations providing inpatient care increased (by 36.4%). At the same time, the level of hospitalization in daily stay hospitals of medical organizations providing outpatient care in 2014 - 2108 virtually unchanged (0.2% increase).

Thus, it is possible to conclude, that the hospital-replacing function has realized in the country and there has been a redistribution of the volume of surgical care from round-the-clock hospital beds to daily stay hospital beds, however, the bed fund of both round-the-clock and daily stay is characterized by extreme disproportionality in different regions of the Russian Federation, what may indicate an imbalance in structural and functional transformations that should be carried out taking into account the characteristics of each particular region.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF ORGANIC SUBSTANCE OF OAK BAR ORDINARY (EMERGENCY) (QUERCUS ROBUR L, BEECH FAMILY - FAGACCAC) (MESSAGE III - CHLOROFORM EXTRACT)
Authors: Platonov V. , Hadarcev Aleksandr , Suhih G. , Frankevich V. , Volochaeva M. , Dunaev V.
Published: June 2020

This report presents the results of chromatography-mass spectrometry of a chloroform extract obtained after preliminary sequential exhaustive extraction of the bark of ordinary oak (petiole) n-hexane and toluene. The purpose of the study is to significantly expand the range of compounds that determine the composition of the organic matter of the bark of ordinary oak (petiole). Materials and research methods. The dried raw material is ground to a powder in a porcelain laboratory mill, which is then subjected to exhaustive sequential extraction with n-hexane and toluene at boiling points. Then, the solid residue was dried to constant weight in a vacuum oven, and then extraction was carried out with chloroform at its boiling point. Extraction with chloroform was completed when the refractive index was reached equal to its initial value, after which chloroform was distilled off in a vacuum rotary evaporator to obtain a dark brown oily residue.

Thus, we can conclude that the pharmacological effect of the chloroform extract of ordinary oak bark (petiolate) will be determined by the presence of significant amounts of sterols, hydrocarbons, which are dominated by arenes, alkenes and cycloalkanes, esters formed mainly by dicarboxylic acid (Oxalic acid).
Epigonic Totalitarianism in Russia
Authors: Bäcker Roman , Rak Joanna
Published: June 2020

This article aims to identify the dynamics of the Russian political regime and explain its sources. The article addresses the research problems of what the dynamics of the Russian political regime entailed from the beginning of the Russo- Ukrainian war to the end of Putin’s third presidential term as well as the sources of the dynamics. It verifies the hypothesis that the authoritarian regime started adopting totalitarian elements of the party-state apparatus, totalitarian political gnosis, and mass and controlled social mobilization in time. There were very strong neo-imperial tendencies and post-imperial nostalgia which contributed to the epigonic nature of the system changes. However, qualitative change of the system has not occurred. The research makes use of source analysis and the technique of conceptual content analysis to gather the data necessary to evaluate the changes in the Russian political regime in the mentioned aspects. The researchers triangulated mass media information and monographs and adopted the principle of theoretical sampling to verify the information necessary to recognize the values of the three indicators. Furthermore, the research applies three dual typologies of the essential features of political regimes to differentiate between the state of the system during individual ellipses of bifurcation.
Prospects for the Sustainable Political Stability of the Russian Federation in the Third Decade of the 21st Century in View of the Synegretic Paradigm
Authors: Polovyi Mykola
Published: June 2020

The paper is an attempt to estimate the influence of synergy in the long-term parameter of order in the nature of political processes in the Russian Federation in the third decade of the 21st century. Two interpretations of this synergetic parameter are proposed – one is based on I. Prigogine’s idea that every dissipative system experiences periods of deterministic and non-deterministic chaos. It incorporates a combination of time and the population of the state. The other is based on the modified ‘structurally-demographic’ approach of A. Korotayev and J. Goldstone. We consider the rate of annual growth in the number of urban young people as such a parameter is proposed. We predict that the Russian Federation will enter into the next period of indeterministic chaos due to the synergetic parameter of order in the next 33-40 years from the last point of bifurcation in 1991. Thus, we forecast the imminent onset of the next period of non-deterministic chaos in the Russian Federation in the second half of the third decade of the 21st century. An influence of several factors on the accuracy of the prognosis of political instability is assessed. It is stated that the probability of political instability in the Russian Federation in the years 2025-2030 caused by synergetic and structuraldemographic parameters of order will decreas under the additional influence of open borders and the high demand for jobs in the military services.
The EU Eastern Partnership Initiative and Georgia
Authors: Darchiashvili David , Bakradze David
Published: June 2020

The article views the geographical area between the EU and Russian borders as a battle space of two, drastically different foreign policy and ideological approaches. The authors argue that in the years since the end of the Cold War, a unique surrogate of former clash of liberal and communist worlds emerged, leading to and underpinning current Hybrid Warfare, underway from Ukraine to Georgia. Its roots lay in the Russian interpretation of the Western attitude towards the East as Neo-colonialist. Relying on the income from its vast energy resources, Russia also tries to develop its version of so called “Soft Power”, used by the West in this region. Though in Russian hands, it is coupled with Moscow’s imperial experiences and resentments, and is becoming a mere element in Hybrid or “non-linear” war. Speaking retrospectively, the Eastern Partnership Initiative of the European Union can be seen as a response to Hybrid threats, posed by Russia against its Western and Southern neighbors. But the question is, whether EU foreign policy initiatives towards this area can and will be efficient and sufficient, if continued to be mostly defensive and limited within Soft Power mechanisms and philosophy, while Russia successfully combines those with traditional Hard Power know-how? The authors argue that in the long run, European or Euro-Atlantic Soft Power tool-kits, spreading Human Rightsbased culture farther in the East, will remain unmatched. But in order to prevail over the Russian revisionist policy here and now, the West, and, particularly, the EU need to re-evaluate traditional foreign policy options and come up with a more drastic combination of Soft/Hard Powers by itself. As the Georgian case shows, the European community should more efficiently use Conditionality and Coercive Diplomacy, combined with clearer messages about partners’ membership perspectives.
Main Trends in Russian Geopolitics after 1991
Authors: Diec Joachim
Published: June 2020

Russian geopolitical thought after the collapse of the USSR can be classified in different ways. However, it always remains under the influence of the same conditions (the trauma of a historical downfall) and proposes clear indications for the foreign policy of the state. The article presents a preliminary view of some directions in Russian geopolitical thought from the point of view of their origin. The study focuses on seven trends: the visions of Great Russia in a multipolar world order, Neo-Eurasianism, the insular theory, military geopolitics, the thought of political geographers, the geopolitics of the Russian World doctrine with its varieties in the form of information geopolitics and cyber- geopolitics, and, last but not least, geoeconomics. A typological study of contemporary Russian geopolitical thought reveals two developmental tendencies: one aiming at radical and ideological concepts and the other proposing a semi-scientific approach.
The Causal Effect of Service Satisfaction on Customer Loyalty
Authors: Huang Guofang , Sudhir K.
Published: June 2020

We propose an instrumental-variable (IV) approach to estimate the causal effect of service satisfaction on customer loyalty by exploiting a common source of randomness in the assignment of service employees to customers in service queues. Our approach can be applied at no incremental cost by using routine repeated cross-sectional customer survey data collected by firms. The IV approach addresses multiple sources of biases that pose challenges in estimating the causal effect using cross-sectional data: (1) the upward bias from common-methods variance resulting from the joint measurement of service satisfaction and loyalty intent in surveys, (2) the attenuation bias caused by measurement errors in service satisfaction, and (3) the omitted variable bias that may be in either direction. In contrast to the common concern about the upward common-methods bias in estimates using cross-sectional survey data, we find that ordinary-least-squares substantially underestimates the causal effect, suggesting that the downward bias resulting from measurement errors and/or omitted variables is dominant. The underestimation is even more significant with a behavioral measure of loyalty, where there is no common-methods bias. This downward bias leads to significant underestimation of the positive profit impact from improving service satisfaction and can lead to underinvestment by firms in service satisfaction. Finally, we find that the causal effect of service satisfaction on loyalty is greater for more difficult types of services.

This paper was accepted by Juanjuan Zhang, marketing.
Inducing Compliance with Postmarket Studies for Drugs Under FDA’s Accelerated Approval Pathway
Authors: Xu Liang (Leon) , Zhao Hui , Petruzzi Nicholas C.
Published: June 2020

Problem definition: In 1992, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) instituted the accelerated approval pathway (AP) to allow promising drugs to enter the market based on limited evidence of efficacy, thereby permitting manufacturers to verify true clinical benefits through postmarket studies. However, most postmarket studies have not been completed as promised. We address this noncompliance problem. Academic/practical relevance: The prevalence of this noncompliance problem poses considerable public health risk, thus compromising the original purpose of a well-intentioned AP initiative. We provide an internally consistent and implementable solution to the problem through a comprehensive analysis of the myriad complicating factors and trade-offs facing the FDA. Methodology: We adopt a Stackelberg framework in which the regulator, which cannot observe the manufacturer’s private cost information or level of effort, leads by imposing a postmarket study deadline. The profit-maximizing manufacturer then follows by establishing its level of effort to invest in its postmarket study. In establishing its deadline, the regulator optimizes the trade-off between providing public access to potentially effective drugs and mitigating public health risks from ineffective drugs. Results: We develop a deadline-dependent user fee menu as a screening mechanism that establishes an incentive for manufacturer compliance. We show that its effectiveness in inducing compliance depends fundamentally on the enforceability of sanction, a drug-specific measure that indicates how difficult it is to withdraw an unproven drug from the market, and the drug’s success probability: The higher either is, the higher is the probability that the mechanism induces compliance. Managerial implications: We synthesize and distill the salient trade-offs and nuances facing the FDA’s noncompliance problem and provide an implementable solution. We quantify the value of the solution as a function of a drug’s success probability and enforceability. From a public policy perspective, we provide guidance for the FDA to increase the viability and effectiveness of AP.
TONALIDADES AFETIVAS FUNDAMENTAIS E O DESLOCAMENTO DO HUMANO EM HEIDEGGER
Authors: Castelo Branco Rodrigo Amorim
Published: June 2020

A partir do pensar do outro princípio em Heidegger, a tentativa neste texto é instaurar uma relação entre tonalidades afetivas (Stimmungen) e o deslocamento do homem da zona do ente à dimensão do seer. Para tanto, refletimos sobre a transição ontológica que retira este homem do mundo das representações técnicas e o insere na dimensão da verdade originária, a fim de demonstrar a sua real condição existencial na qual sempre está situado: condição de finitude. As meditações fenomenológicas de Heidegger revelam a situação indigente na qual todo e qualquer ente humano está. Indigência, contrária a qualquer juízo negativo, significa o reconhecimento do ser-aí (o ente deslocado) de que a sua existência é fundamentada pelo acontecimento abissal do seer. Por outro, o esquecimento dessa verdade lança o homem na ausência de indigência, isto é, na falta de consciência de pobreza e finitude, uma vez que se autodeclara fundamento de si mesmo. Nesse sentido, podemos dizer que tal esquecimento é o que caracteriza o pensamento do primeiro princípio no Ocidente.
SOBRE A QUESTÃO DA POBREZA INESSENCIAL E ESSENCIAL: DO NÃO NECESSÁRIO AO NÃO-NECESSÁRIO EM MARTIN HEIDEGGER
Authors: Santos Gilvanio Moreira
Published: June 2020

O texto que se experimenta procura abrir, por um lado, uma problematização da pobreza inessencial, “não necessária” e, por sua vez, prescindível e, por outro, levantar o problema que surge – em uma parte do todo de questões que estão em jogo na pequena conferência: A pobreza (Die Armut) – da afeição junto à pobreza essencial, do não-necessário, do não existencial, como abertura da possibilidade da “riqueza” contra o perigo (Gefahr) e seu duplo golpe perigoso (Gefährlicher) que emerge do pensamento do cálculo, oriundo da essência da técnica moderna (Gestell). Tais temas foram discutidos entre os anos de 1945/46 em algumas das obras do pensador alemão Martin Heidegger. O trabalho aqui desenvolvido indica que neste texto, A pobreza, o pensador dialoga, para além de outras questões, com a necessidade do aclaramento da diferença ontológica, bem como da questão do ser-historial.
PRECONCEITO OU PRÉ-CONCEITO? CONSTRUINDO SENTIDOS SOBRE PRECONCEITO E SAÚDE À LUZ DA HERMENÊUTICA DE HANS-GEORG GADAMER: UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA.
Authors: Deluque Júnior Romano , Costa Márcio Luís
Published: June 2020

Objetivou-se trazer um panorama à respeito do tema do preconceito dentro da perspectiva teórica da Hermenêutica Filosófica tal como é proposta por Hans-Georg Gadamer. Procedeu-se à uma revisão de literatura na modalidade de uma Revisão Integrativa que perguntou pelos principais  entendimentos acerca do tema do preconceito trazidos pelos trabalhos publicados nos últimos 10 anos. 17 estudos foram selecionados e categorizados seguindo tais categorias: ano de publicação, país de publicação, país de realização da pesquisa, periódico, área temática, ramo de atuação dos autores, indicadores de preconceito, delineamentos metodológicos, ferramenta para análise de dados, características das amostras, procedimentos éticos, e principais resultados e conclusões. A discussão tratou das problemáticas que mais emergiram dentro dos trabalhos selecionados. Concluiu-se ser, a hermenêutica filosófica, uma eficiente ferramenta para a construção de uma visão humanizada de saúde dentro de uma perspectiva onde todo conhecimento é antecedido por um preconceito que o antecede.
Befindlichkeit e Stimmung, das tonalidades afetivas na analítica existencial de Heidegger
Authors: Kahlmeyer-Mertens Roberto S.
Published: June 2020

As tonalidades afetivas são tema do presente trabalho. Ao abordá-las, em sua obra Ser e tempo, Heidegger utiliza Befindlichkeit e Stimmung para nomear uma experiência de afinação ontológica. Antes de definir aqui o que isso poderia significar, nosso artigo objetiva primeiramente analisar esses fenômenos e os conceitos que os expressam no âmbito da analítica existencial presente naquela obra. O problema de pesquisa orientador do artigo se ocuparia essencialmente de indagar: o que o filósofo quer indicar com os termos Befindlichkeit e Stimmung? Para uma tal problematização, optamos por recorrer inicialmente a uma revisão de literatura na qual se passará em revista as escolhas de tradução dos termos em apreço especificamente em Ser e tempo. O objetivo desse novo momento é o de indicar que, embora sejam expressões de difícil tradução, é possível pensá-los de maneira acurada (e em coerência ao modo de dizer heideggeriano) em face dos termos utilizados para verter sua conceptualidade ao português. Adiante, pretendemos uma exposição do quanto Befindlichkeit e Stimmung seriam fenômenos correlatos. Associado a isso, planejamos rematar o estudo com uma indicação do papel que as tonalidades afetivas desempenhariam frente a noção de ser-lançado (Geworfenheit), pesquisando que implicação tais fenômenos próprios à existência do ser-aí teriam perante a abertura constitutiva deste ao mundo e a sua facticidade específica.
Rebeca Furtado de Melo: sobre reconhecimento, parceria e gratidão. Entrevista com Rebeca Furtado de Melo.
Authors: De Melo Rebeca Furtado , Fernandes Christiane Costa de Matos , Guimarães Deborah Moreira
Published: June 2020

Entrevista elaborada por Christiane Costa de Matos Fernandes e Deborah Moreira Guimarães. As perguntas foram enviadas por e-mail à professora e pesquisadora Rebeca Furtado, que as respondeu por escrito.
Editorial
Authors: Fernandes Christiane Costa de Matos , Guimarães Deborah Moreira
Published: June 2020

Editorial - Vol. 9, N. 1 (2020)[Português][Español][English]