bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long Non-Coding RNA ADAMTS9-AS1 Represses Ferroptosis of Endometrial Stromal Cells Through Regulating miR-6516-5p/GPX4 Axis in Endometriosis
Authors: Wan Yiting , Gu Cancan , Kong Jueying , Sui Jin , Zuo Ling , Song Yanhua , Chen Jing
Published: August 2021

Endometriosis (EMs) is one of the most frequent diseases in reproductive age women, characterized by the growth of endometrial tissues beyond the uterus. Enhanced proliferative and migratory potential of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) is the major cause of EMs. Mounting studies have demonstrated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert an important role in regulating the development and progression of EMs. Given the aberrant expression of lncRNA ADAMTS9-AS1 in ectopic endometrium (ecEM), here we investigated the biological effect of ADAMTS9-AS1 on ESCs proliferation and migration and explored the underlying mechanism. The current data showed that the ADAMTS9-AS1 expression was significantly up-regulated in ecEM compared with eutopic endometrium (euEM) in patients with EMs and in a murine model of EMs. Functionally, ADAMTS9-AS1 knockdown in ectopic ESCs (EESCs) decreased cell viability and migration, whereas ADAMTS9-AS1 overexpression in normal ESCs (NESCs) enhanced cell viability and migration. More important, the effect of ADAMTS9-AS1 inhibition on decreasing ESCs viability was significantly blocked by Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1, a ferroptosis inhibitor), and ADAMTS9-AS1 overexpression repressed Erastin (a ferroptosis activator)-induced cell death. Furthermore, the regulatory role of ADAMTS9-AS1 in ferroptosis was defined and evidenced by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and malonyl dialdehyde (MDA) content, and decreased expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) after ADAMTS9-AS1 inhibition. Mechanistically, ADAMTS9-AS1 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) via sponging miR-6516-5p to de-repress the expression of GPX4, the critical repressor of ferroptosis. Taken together, these results demonstrate that up-regulated ADAMTS9-AS1 accelerates ESCs proliferation and migration through regulating miR-6516-5p/GPX4-dependent ferroptosis, and may be a potential target for the treatment of EMs.
Study of the Correction Method of Secular Variation in the Main Geomagnetic Field by the Field Seismogeomagnetic Survey
Authors: su shupeng , Wang ZhaoJing , Liu Deqiang , Mao Fenglong
Published: August 2021

The correction of the secular variation (SV) of the main geomagnetic field is a key link of field seismogeomagnetic data processing, and the current method relies on the observatory data for the relevant technical processing. To optimize the data products and obtain more accurate and reliable seismomagnetic information, this study adopted a new technical idea, which uses the repeated survey data from field stations to obtain the SV of the main geomagnetic field over the survey area by the weighted least-squares method, and compared the results with those of the current methods. The results were as follows: 1. The SV results of the main geomagnetic field produced by the new method are closer to those of the International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF)_SV model. The mean square error (MSE) of the difference of the three elements F, D, and I between the new method and the IGRF_SV model is 10.7%, 47.0%, and 14.5% of that of the original method, respectively. 2. By applying the new SV correction method, more stable and reasonable variations in Earth’s crustal magnetic field can be obtained. The average amplitude of the Earth’s crustal magnetic field variation in the three elements F, D, and I is 28.5%, 55.4%, and 34.4 of the original results, the MSE is 59.1%, 56.5%, and 40.3% of the original results, and the mean gradient is 93.6%, 91.9%, and 97.0%, respectively. 3. In the processed results of the new method, the seismomagnetic information is clearly optimized, and the location of the epicenter is more consistent with the 0 value line of the Earth’s crustal magnetic field. The processed results of the new method are significantly better than those of the original method and have a higher application value.
Identification of a Four-miRNA Signature Predicts Prognosis in Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: FAN YANG , zhou Hongzhong
Published: August 2021

Background: In newly diagnosed patients with thyroid cancer, papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), accounts for ninety percent of all cases. Although PTC is known as a relatively adolescent malignant disease, there still is a high possibility of recurrence in PTC patients, who suffered from poor prognosis. Therefore, new biomarkers are necessary to guide more effective stratification of PTC patients and personalization of therapy to avoid overtreatment or inadequate treatment. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that miRNAs have broad application prospects as diagnostic biomarkers in cancer. Methods: The present study aims to explore novel markers consists of miRNA-associated signature for PTC prognostication, utilizing data from the TCGA database. We obtained and analyzed data of 497 PTC patients from the TCGA. The patients were randomly assigned to a training cohort or testing cohort. Results: We discovered 237 differentially expressed miRNAs in tumorous thyroid tissues comparing to normal tissues The effect evaluation of excavated differently expressed miRNAs was conducted by our risk score model. We then successfully generated a four-miRNA potential prognostic signature, which reliably distinguishes patients from high risk and low risk with a significant difference in overall survival (P <0.01) and was effective in predicting five-year disease survival. Conclusions: Our results indicated a four miRNAs signature that has a robust predicting effect on the prognosis of PTC. Therefore, we would recommend more radical treatment and closer follow-up of high-risk individuals.
Evaluation of Fetal Diaphragm Excursion and Thickness in Term Pregnancies Complicated With Pre-gestational and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Acmaz Gokhan , Ozdemir Fatma , Açmaz Banu , Madendag Yusuf , Madendag İlknur Çöl , Müderris İpek
Published: August 2021

Background: Both pre-gestational (PGDM) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) make pregnancy complicated. Moreover in literature GDM and PGDM have been accused for respiratory morbidity in newborns. Diaphragm ultrasound (DUS) is useful and noninvasive method that provides an opportunity to examination of the diaphragmatic morphology and function. This study examined quality of fetal diaphragmatic contractions in pregnant women complicated with GDM and PGDM. Methods: A total of 105 volunteers separated into 3 groups; (1) GDM group (n=35), (2) PGDM group (n=35), and (3) healthy non-diabetic control group (n=35). Thickness of fetal diaphragm (DT), diaphragmatic excursion (DE), diaphragm thickening fraction (DTF) and costodiaphragmatic angle (CDA) was measured on the video frame during inspiration and expiration phases of respiration.Results: Especially PGDM group represented adversely affected diaphragm measurement parameters. DT inspiration, DT expiration, DE, CDA inspiration and DTF values were significantly different between PGDM and control group. Conclusions: Quality of fetal diaphragm movements affected in pregnancies complicated with GDM and PGDM. Prolonged duration of diabetes may have additional adverse effects on diaphragm morphology and its function.
Early Detection of Plant Virus Infection Using Multispectral Imaging and Spatial-Spectral Machine Learning
Authors: Peng Yao , Dallas Mary , Ascencio-Ibáñez José T. , Hoyer Steen , Legg James , Hanley-Bowdoin Linda , Grieve Bruce , Yin Hujun
Published: August 2021

Cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) is an emerging viral disease that can greatly reduce cassava productivity, while causing only mild aerial symptoms that develop late in infection. Early detection of CBSD enables better crop management and intervention. Current techniques require laboratory equipment and are labour intensive and often inaccurate. We have developed a handheld active multispectral imaging (A-MSI) device combined with machine learning for early detection of CBSD in real-time. The principal benefits of A-MSI over passive MSI and conventional camera systems are improved spectral signal-to-noise ratio and temporal repeatability. Information fusion techniques further combine spectral and spatial information to reliably identify features that distinguish healthy cassava from plants with CBSD as early as 28 days post inoculation. Application of the device has the potential to increase farmers' access to healthy planting materials and reduce losses due to CBSD in Africa. It can also be adapted for sensing other biotic and abiotic stresses in real-world situations where plants are exposed to multiple pest, pathogen and environmental stresses.
The Relationship Between Serum Orexin A, TGF-β, and Leptin Levels with Body Mass Index in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Moharami Sepideh , Nourazarian Alireza , Nikanfar Masoud , Laghousi Delara , shademan behrouz , khaki-khatibi Fatemeh
Published: August 2021

Backgrounds: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disease linked to several inflammatory and dietary parameters. This study was carried out to determine the relationship between serum leptin, orexin-A, and TGF-β levels with BMI in MS patients.Methods and results: In this cross-sectional study, 25 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients and 40 healthy controls were enrolled. The serum level of Leptin, Orexin-A, and TGF- were measured by the Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, Chi-square test, and Linear regression test. A total of 65 volunteers, including 25 MS patients and 40 healthy, were enrolled in the study. The mean age of individuals in the case and control groups was 38.04 ± 7.53 and 40.23 ± 5.88. There were no statistically significant differences between the case and control groups regarding gender, age, alcohol, and cigarette use (P>0.05). The mean serum levels of Orexin-A and TGF-ß were lower among multiple sclerosis patients than in healthy controls, but leptin was higher (42.8 vs. 18.9 ng/ml, P<0.001). The relationship between BMI and serum levels of Orexin-A, TGF-ß, and Leptin among Multiple Sclerosis patients was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).Conclusion: Our results showed that the serum levels of Orexin-A and TGF-β were significantly lower. The serum level of leptin was higher among multiple sclerosis patients than among healthy controls. Also, there was no statistically significant relationship between BMI and serum levels of Orexin-A, TGF-ß, and Leptin among multiple sclerosis patients.
Emergence of KPC-2-Producing ST11-K64 Hypervirulent Klebsiella Pneumoniae for the Elderly in Intensive Care Unit: Antimicrobial Resistance, Molecular and Clinical Characteristics
Authors: Wei Tian , Zou Cheng-yun , Qin Jie , Tao Jian-min , Yan Li , Wang Jiang-jun , Du Hong , Shen Fang , Zhao Yan-qin , Wang Hai-ying
Published: August 2021

Background: In recent years, carbapenem-resistant hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-hvKP) has been increasingly reported and poses severe therapeutic challenge to global public health, but has not yet been systematically studied in elderly patients. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and molecular characteristics and risk factors of CR-hvKP infections in elderly patients. Methods: We retrospectively investigated elderly patients with carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) infections in intensive care unit (ICU),between January 2020 and December 2020, the clinical data being collected from medical records, and microbiological data including antimicrobial susceptibility testing, phenotype experiment, carbapenemases production, string test, virulence gene, capsular serotype-specific (cps) genes and multilocus sequence typing, of the CR-hvKP group defined by the presence of some combination of rmpA, rmpA2, iucA, iroB, and peg-344 was compared with those of carbapenem-resistant non-hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-non-hvKP) strains.Results: Of 80 CRKP strains, 51(63.8%) met the definition of CR-hvKP and 7 of them had all five of the virulence genes tested. The main mechanism of resistance to carbapenems found in CR-hvKP strains was the presence of the blaKPC-2 gene. There was no statistical significance in the resistance rates of antimicrobial agents between the CR-hvKP and CR-non-hvKP subgroups (p ≥ 0.05). Compared with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 50 values of CR-non-hvKP group, those of antimicrobials, including ceftazidime, ceftazidime/avibactam, imipenem/avibactam, tigecycline, levofloxacin, cefoperazone-sulbactam, exhibited higher levels in the CR-hvKP group. Avibactam (4 µg/mL) significantly decreased the MIC90 values more than sixteen-fold than that of ceftazidime and imipenem alone against KPC-2-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. K64 and ST11 were highly prevalent and strongly associated with CR-hvKP (P<0.05). Cardiovascular disease (odds ratio [OR] = 11.956) and ST11-K64 (OR= 8.385) appeared to be independent variables associated with CR-hvKP infection by multivariate analysis.Conclusion: The CR-hvKP strains showed higher MIC50 values than CR-non-hvKP strains. KPC-2-producing ST11-K64 CR-hvKP is emerging, which might become new significant “superbugs” and a threat to elderly patients.
The Efficacy and Safety of Treatment Regimens Used in the First-Line Setting in Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer Patients: A Multicenter Real-Life Study
Authors: Akdeniz Nadiye , Kaplan Muhammet Ali , İnanç Mevlüde , Uncu Doğan , Ergün Yakup , Küçüköner Mehmet , Demirci Ayşe , Şendur Mehmet Ali Nahit , Beşiroğlu Mehmet , Topçu Atakan , Yerlikaya Halis , Urakçı Zuhat , Kılıçkap Saadettin , Işıkdoğan Abdurrahman
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and toxicity of three different chemotherapy regimens used as first-line treatments in the real-life management of metastatic pancreatic cancer (mPC). Methods: A total of 218 patients diagnosed with mPC at the time of initial admission were included in this multicenter study. Gemcitabine (Gem, n=71), Gemcitabine-cisplatin (Gem-Cis, n=91) and FOLFIRINOX (FFX, n=56) treatments were compared in terms of efficacy and treatment-related toxicity. Results: Overall response rate was significantly higher in the FFX group (50.0%) than in the Gem (28.2%) and Gem-Cis (27.5%) groups (p=0.010).Median progression-free survival (8.4 vs. 4.6 and 5.5 months, respectively, p<0.001) and overall survival (16.4 vs. 8.1 and 8.7 months, respectively, p=0.002) were significantly longer in theFFX group than in the Gem and Gem-Cis groups. Toxicity of any grade was noted in 46(64.8%), 56(61.5%) and 49(87.5%) patients in the Gem, Gem-Cis and FFX groups, respectively (p=0.003).Of the grade 3-4 toxicities, weakness/fatigue and mucositis were reported only in the FFX group (5.4% and 3.6%, respectively). Grade 3-4 diarrhea (10.7%, 0.0%, 2.2%, respectively) and neutropenia (25%, 4.2% and 5.5%, respectively) were more common in the FFX group than in the Gem and Gem-Cis groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings indicate that FFX regimen provides a significant advantage over the other treatment regimens in terms of response rates and survival. Treatment toxicity was more frequent but manageable with the FFX regimen.FFX seems to be a preferable regimen in the first-line treatment of the younger and fit patients diagnosed with mPC.
Stress, Pain, and Work Affiliation Are Strongly Associated With Health-related Quality of Life in Parents of 14–15-year-old Adolescents
Authors: Rohde Gudrun , Helseth Sølvi , Mikkelsen Hilde Timenes , Skarstein Siv , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Haraldstad Kristin
Published: August 2021

BackgroundFor many adults, their role as a parent is a vital part of their lives. This role is likely to be associated with a parent’s health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The aim of this study was to explore the associations between gender, demographic and psychosocial variables, and HRQOL pain in parents of 14–15-year-old adolescents.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study that included 561 parents. Data on demographic, psychosocial variables and pain were collected using validated instruments. HRQOL was assessed using the RAND-36. Data were analysed using univariate and hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses.ResultsFour hundred and thirty-six (78%) mothers and 125 (22%) fathers with a mean age of 45 (SD = 5) years were included. Eighty-one per cent were married/cohabiting, 74% worked full time, and 50% had university education of more than 4 years. Almost one-third reported daily or weekly pain, and more than half (58%) reported using pain analgesics during the previous 4 weeks. Mothers reported significantly lower scores on self-efficacy, self-esteem and for all RAND-36 domains, including the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) and experienced greater stress than fathers. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that working part-time (beta = 0.40) or full time (beta = 0.52) (reference: not working) had the strongest positive effect on PCS. Absence from work for >10 days (beta = –0.24) (reference: no absence), short-term pain (beta = –0.14), chronic pain (beta = –0.37) (reference: no pain), and stress (beta= –0.10) had the strongest negative effects on PCS. High self-esteem (beta = 0.11) had the strongest positive effect, whereas stress (beta = –0.58) and absence from work for >10 days (beta = –0.11) (reference: no absence) had the strongest negative effects on MCS.ConclusionMothers reported significantly lower scores on self-efficacy, self-esteem, and HRQOL, and experienced greater stress than the fathers. A high proportion of parents reported pain. Pain, stress, and low work affiliation were strongly associated with decreased HRQOL in parents. We recommend that parents of adolescents should be provided guidance about coping with pain and stress, and facilitation of a strong work affiliation because these seem to be important to parents’ HRQOL.
Evaluating the Direct Economic Burden of Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation Among Patients With Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: a Propensity Score-matched Cohort Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xu , Chen Liangwan , Peng Yanchun , Lin Yanjuan , Chen Qiong , Huang Xizhen , Li Sailan
Published: August 2021

Background: Prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) among acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) may affect the prognosis, but poorly known about the direct economic burden of PMV in patients with AAAD. The present study was contributing to filling this knowledge gap.Methods: This present study was a retrospective cohort study. Age, gender, payment methods, and postoperative complications were matched at a 1:1 ratio by using a propensity score analysis of AAAD patients. The direct economic burden was expressed as the median 1:1 differences of various hospital costs and length of stay (LOS). The Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare the difference of direct economic burden at mechanical ventilation (MV) and PMV patients.Results: A total of 464 patients, PMV occurred in 142(30.6%) patients, and 218 patients were enrolled in the matched analysis. The estimated total direct economic burden of PMV was $4970.28(P<0.05). Among different hospital costs, western medicine ($3183.23) accounted for the highest category in the economic burden, followed by blood transfusion ($250.81) and materials fees ($207.43). The median hospital and Intensive Care Unit LOS in PMV groups were prolonged 5 days than those in MV groups (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Postoperative PMV was associated with increased economic burden among AAAD patients. This study emphasizes the need for early detection and management of PMV to reduce the economic burden.
Predicting Hospital Mortality and Length of Stay: The Delirium Screening Checklist versus Confusion Assessment Method for Intensive Care Units
Authors: Li Hsiu Ching , Chen Cheryl Chia-Hui , Yeh Tony Yu-Chang , Liao Shih-Cheng , Hsu Adrian-Shengchun , Wei Yu-Chung , Shun Shiow-Ching , Ku Shih-Chi , Inouye Sharon K
Published: August 2021

Background: Both the intensive care delirium screening checklist (ICDSC) and confusion assessment method for ICU (CAM-ICU) are valid tools for identification of delirium, however their relative predictive validity for important delirium outcomes, such as hospital mortality and LOS have not been well-established. We aim to compare the two tools for their predictive validity for outcomes related to delirium, hospital mortality and length of stay (LOS).Methods: The prospective cohort study conducted in six medical ICUs at a tertiary care hospital in Taiwan. The study enrolled consecutive adult patients (≥20 years) who were delirium free at ICU admission. Delirium was screened daily by trained research nurses using the ICDSC and CAM-ICU in random order. Arousal was assessed by the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS). Participants with any one positive result were classified as ICDSC- or CAM-ICU-delirium groups, respectively.Results: Delirium incidence evaluated by the ICDSC and CAM-ICU were 69.1% (67/97) and 50.5% (49/97), respectively. Although the ICDSC identified 18 more cases as delirious, substantial concordance (κ =0.63; p < 0.001) was found between tools. Independent of age, APACHE II score, and Charlson comorbidity index, both ICDSC- and CAM-ICU-rated delirium significantly predicted hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.93; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.56 to 15.63 vs. 2.79; 95% CI, 1.12 to 6.97, respectively), and only the ICDSC significantly predicted hospital LOS with a mean of 17.59 additional days compared to the no-delirium group. Irrespective of delirium status, a sensitivity analysis of normal-to-increased arousal (RASS≥0) test results did not alter the predictive ability of ICDSC- or CAM-ICU-delirium for hospital mortality (aOR 2.97; 95% CI, 1.06 to 8.37 vs. 3.82; 95% CI, 1.35 to 10.82, respectively). With reduced arousal (RASS<0), neither tool significantly predicted mortality or LOS.Conclusions: The ICDSC identified more delirium cases and may have higher predictive validity for mortality and LOS than the CAM-ICU. However, arousal substantially affected performance. Future studies may want to consider patients’ arousal when deciding which tool to use to maximize the effects of delirium identification on patient mortality.Trial registration: NCT 04206306
Molecular and microscopic detection of Babesia caballi and Theileria equi among working horses and donkeys in Cairo and Giza provinces of Egypt
Authors: Soliman Ahmed M. , Elhawary Nagwa M. , Helmy Nashwa M. , Gadelhaq Sahar M.
Published: August 2021

Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is an ixodid tick-borne disease caused by Theileria equi and/or Babesia caballi that can lead to severe health issues and economic losses among equine population. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of T. equi and B. caballi among Egyptian equines based on microscopy and conventional PCR. Also, to determine the effect of season, age, and sex of on their prevalence and determining the difference in sensitivity between microscopy and conventional PCR in the diagnosis of EP. This study was carried out on 432 blood samples randomly collected from 146 horses and 286 donkeys during a period from April 2016 to March 2018. Microscopic examination revealed that among horses, 13 (8.9%) and 4 (2.7%) were infected by T. equi and B. caballi respectively. While among donkeys, 22 (7.7%), 16 (5.6%) respectively. While mixed infections were detected in 4 (1.4%) donkeys. There was a statistically nonsignificant relation between prevalence of infection and season and sex of equines but the highest prevalence was recorded in age group less than 5 years old. By conventional PCR, among 64 horses, 15 (23.4%) and 8 (12.5%) were infected by T. equi and B. caballi, respectively. While among 76 donkeys, 36 (47.4%), 16 (21.1%), and 5 (6.6%) were infected by T. equi, B. caballi, and mixed infection, respectively. Our finding proved the existence of T. equi and B. caballi among equines.
Decision-Making Models Based on Satisfaction Degree with Incomplete Hesitant Fuzzy Preference Relation
Authors: Li Jian , Niu Li-li , Chen Qiongxia , Wang Zhong-xing
Published: August 2021

To address the situation where the incomplete hesitant fuzzy preference relation (IHFPR) is necessary, this paper develops decision-making models based on decision makers’ satisfaction degree with IHFPR. First, the consistency measures from the perspectives of additive and multiplicative consistent IHFPR are defined based on the relationships between the IHPFRs and their corresponding priority weight vector, respectively. Second, two decision-making models are developed in view of the proposed additive and multiplicative consistency measures. The main characteristic of the constructed model sarethey taking into account the decision makers’ satisfaction degree. The objective functions of the models are developed by maximizing the parameter of satisfaction degree. Third, a square programming model is developed to obtain the decision makers’ weights byutilizing the optimal priority weight vectors information, the solution of the model is obtained by solving the partial derivatives ofLagrange function.Finally, a procedure for multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problems with IHFPRs is given, and an illustrative example in conjunction with comparative analysis is used to demonstrate the proposed models are feasible and efficiency for practical MCDM problems.
Collaboration Challenges of Non-Governmental Organizations in Healthcare system in Iran: a qualitative study
Authors: hooshmand elahe , Pardasi Esmat , Jamali Jamshid , Javan-Noughabi Javad , najar Ali Vafaee
Published: August 2021

Objective

Despite the strong emphasize of government on collaboration and application of non-governmental organizations in healthcare, there can be seen a research gap in this area in developing countries. The present study aims to investigate collaboration challenges of non-governmental organizations in healthcare from the viewpoint of healthcare managers and active managers of non-governmental organizations of Iran as an example of low-middle income country.
Results

The content analysis of qualitative data led to the emergence of five main themes of collaboration challenges of non-governmental organizations in healthcare: political issues, operational issues, cultural issues, management issues, and communication issues. This study presents a clear framework for identification of collaboration challenges of non-governmental organizations in healthcare Especially for developing countries. This framework should be taken into consideration by authorities of Ministry of health in their policy makings.
Extracellular vesicles from Gram-positive and Gram-negative probiotics remediate stress-induced depressive behavior in mice
Authors: Choi Juli , Kwon Hyejin , Kim Yoon-Keun , Han Pyung-Lim
Published: August 2021

Chronic stress causes maladaptive changes in the brain that lead to depressive behavior. In the present study, we investigate whether chronic stress alters gut microbiota and whether specific mediators of probiotics remedies stress-induced maladaptive changes in the brain. Mice treated with daily 2-h restraint for 14 days (CRST) exhibit depressive-like behavior. Sequence readings of 16S rRNA genes prepared from fecal samples taken from CRST-treated mice suggest that chronic stress induces gut microbiota changes that are pronounced 14 days after the last restraint, relative to those that occur in the 14-day stress phase. The genus Lactobacillus is one such microbiota substantially changed following chronic stress. In contrast, post-stress treatment with extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from the Gram-positive probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum are sufficient to ameliorate stress-induced depressive-like behavior. Interestingly, EVs from the Gram-positive probiotic Bacillus subtilis and EVs from the Gram-negative probiotic Akkermansia muciniphila also produce anti-depressive-like effects. While chronic stress decreases expression of MeCP2, Sirt1, and/or neurotrophic factors in the hippocampus, EVs from the selected probiotics differentially restore stress-induced changes of these factors. These results suggest that chronic stress produces persistent changes in gut microbiota composition, whereas EVs of certain probiotics can be used for treatment of stress-induced maladaptive changes.
Investigation of the effects of six medicinal plants with antiviral effects against COVID-19
Authors: ALP Harun , ASİL Hasan , Duman Demet
Published: August 2021

Today, the coronavirus epidemic, which caused the death of 79 million cases and 1743 thousand people in 218 countries around the world, continues to increase its impact all over the world. Researchers are still trying to develop an effective solution against covid-19, including vaccines and drugs. However, there are few studies that determine the effect of natural products obtained from plants on covid-19. Medicinal and aromatic plants have been used for therapeutic purposes since the existence of humanity. In this study, the effects of some important medicinal plants including Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), Nigella (Nigella sativa L.), Laurel (Lauris nobilis), Karabaş (Lavandula stoechas), and Zahter (Thymbra spicata L. var. Spicata) against Covid-19 were investigated in vitro conditions. The six plants were evaluated for cytotoxic effect on Vero cells and determining inhibition of viral replication in Vero-E6 cells at concentrations of broad-spectrum antiviral non-cytotoxic against Covid-19 in cell culture and an additional antiviral effect against Covid-19. According to the results, the five examined plants (Saffron, Nigella, Laurel, Karabaş, Zahter) were ineffective against Covid-19 in vitro conditions. Interisingly, the water extract obtained from the root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra) inhibited Covid-19 in vitro conditions in the 2nd dilution (1: 4) following the initial concentration in Vero-E6 cells.
Nexus between integrating technology readiness 2.0 index and students’ e-library services adoption amid the COVID-19 challenges: Implications based on the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Rahmat Taufik Edi , Raza Saqlain , Zahid Hasan , Abbas Jaffar , Sobri Fatimah Azzahraa Mohd , Sidiki Shehla Najib
Published: August 2021

Background

The advent of the pandemic COVID-19 has resulted in a global crisis that resulted in the closure of universities and educational institutions worldwide. This study aims to explore the determinants of students’ intention towards e-library services usage amid the challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper reviews the technology-oriented individual attitude based on four dimensions of the technology readiness 2.0 index factors, which affect medical students’ perspectives.
Materials and methods

The authors provided a self-administered questionnaire to medical students to investigate their e-library adoption attitude during the COVID-19 crisis. The authors distributed 542 questionnaires, received 361 complete responses and analyzed the data through path modeling/partial least squares structural equations modeling technique (PLS-SEM) with the smart PLS software version 3.3.3. The structural equation-modelling tool permits the estimation of results.
Results

The main finding revealed that medical students have a positive and explicit approach to use the services available at the e-library. Technology use and online services helped students continue their educational needs in the advent of the current pandemic COVID-19. Attitude and subjective norms have significant influence and are strong predictors of intention. However, due to inadequate support for the government side, the perceived behavioural control has an insignificant impact on intention. This paper indicated one of the pioneers investigating the determinants of e-library adoption among medical students based on technology-oriented personality traits, employing the four dimensions of the technology readiness 2.0 index during the challenges of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Conclusion

The study’s findings provide useful insight that offers valuable insights to implement specific strategies from the government officials to address medical students’ uncertainties and increase the technology adoption amid the COVID-19 pandemic in medical education for developing nations.
Meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies for litter size in sheep
Authors: Gholizade Mohsen , Esmaeili-Fard Seyed Mehdi
Published: August 2021

Background
Litter size and ovulation rate are important reproduction traits in sheep and have important impacts on the profitability of farm animals. To investigate the genetic architecture of litter size, we report the first meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) using 522 ewes and 564,377 SNPs from six sheep breeds.
Results
We identified 29 significant associations for litter size which 27 of which have been not reported in GWASs for each population. However, we could confirm the role of BMPR1B in prolificacy. Our gene set analysis discovered biological pathways related to cell signaling, communication, and adhesion. Functional clustering and enrichment using protein databases identified epidermal growth factor-like domain affecting litter size. Through analyzing protein-protein interaction data, we could identify hub genes like CASK, PLCB4, RPTOR, GRIA2, and PLCB1 that were enriched in most of the significant pathways. These genes have a role in cell proliferation, cell adhesion, cell growth and survival, and autophagy.
Conclusions
Notably, identified SNPs were scattered on several different chromosomes implying different genetic mechanisms underlying variation of prolificacy in each breed. Given the different layers that make up the follicles and the need for communication and transfer of hormones and nutrients through these layers to the oocyte, the significance of pathways related to cell signaling and communication seems logical. Our results provide genetic insights into the litter size variation in different sheep breeds.
Estimating SARS-CoV-2 prevalence from large-scale wastewater surveillance: insights from combined analysis of 44 sites in England
Authors: Morvan Mario , Jacomo Anna Lo , Souque Celia , Wade Matthew , Hoffmann Till , Pouwels Koen , Singer Andrew , Bunce Joshua , Engeli Andrew , Grimsley Jasmine , O'Reilly Kathleen , Danon Leon
Published: August 2021

Accurate surveillance of the COVID-19 pandemic can be weakened by under-reporting of cases, particularly due to asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic infections, resulting in bias. Quantification of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater (WW) can be used to infer infection prevalence, but uncertainty in sensitivity and considerable variability has meant that accurate measurement remains elusive. Data from 44 sewage sites in England, covering 31% of the population, shows that SARS-CoV-2 prevalence is estimated to within 1.1% of estimates from representative prevalence surveys (with 95% confidence). Using machine learning and phenomenological models, differences between sampled sites, particularly the WW flow rate, influence prevalence estimation and require careful interpretation. SARS-CoV-2 signals in WW appear 4–5 days earlier in comparison to clinical testing data but are coincident with prevalence surveys suggesting that WW surveillance can be a leading indicator for asymptomatic viral infections. Wastewater-based epidemiology complements and strengthens traditional surveillance, with significant implications for public health.
Violation of ethics of professional communication and legal liability of people's deputies
Authors: Kobzeva T.A. , Kulish V.S.
Published: August 2021

The study is devoted to interdisciplinary analysis and characterization of ethical behavior of people's deputies, features of its violation and legal liability for such violations. The interdisciplinarity of this study is firstly connected with the study which identified the basic norms and principles of professional communication and parliamentary ethics in terms of philological science, and then analyzed the main areas of legal liability of deputies for violations related to the legal basis of the study. Attention is focused on the features of professional communication, which correlates with various forms of conversation, listening, writing and responding, which are carried out both at work and outside it, in person or in electronic form. Professional communication, as part of the study of political discourse, is related to such concepts as professional competence and the culture of professional communication, which is primarily related to the culture of perception, culture of reflection, culture of communication and culture of interaction. According to the Law of Ukraine on the Status of the People’s Deputy, the status, rights, and responsibilities of the people’s deputies, which are connected with conducting political activity, are determined. Deputy ethics is considered as a subdivision of professional ethics which task is to regulate both parliamentary and extra-parliamentary relations. The Ukrainian model of regulation of such activities envisages the existence of a regulatory body (the Committee of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on the Rules of Procedure, Deputy Ethics and Organization of Work of the Verkhovna Rada, which is accountable to the Parliament of Ukraine). Professional parliamentary activity imposes special obligations on the representatives of the deputy corps to ensure the moral nature of the relationship that develops in connection with its implementation. It is clear that the deputy, carrying out his parliamentary activities, is obliged to adhere to the norms of professional ethics and conduct, violations of which lead to legal liability.
Insolvency as a material and legal basis for initiating bankruptcy proceedings against business organizations
Authors: Serebryakova Y.O.
Published: August 2021

In this scientific article, the author discloses the definition of insolvency as a substantive legal basis for opening bankruptcy proceedings. It is emphasized that the grounds for initiating bankruptcy proceedings enshrined in the Bankruptcy Procedure Code are not consistent with the concept of insolvency of the debtor, which is enshrined in part one of Article 1 of this Code, as their combined application does not require establishing the debtor's ability to meet its monetary obligations. to creditors after the due date solely through the application of bankruptcy proceedings. It is established that the courts do not establish the facts of the debtor's signs of insolvency, taking into account the concept of insolvency, which is enshrined in law. It is alleged that the postponement of the moment of proving insolvency to the stage of disposition of the debtor's property is the cause of cases of unreasonable application to the debtor of the consequences of bankruptcy proceedings, namely, a moratorium on creditors' claims, restriction of the debtor to decide on his property. It is emphasized that the existing legal position of the Supreme Court on the moment of establishing the solvency of the debtor is unconstructive, as it allows the opening of bankruptcy proceedings against debtors who have no signs of insolvency, but simply perform their obligations in bad faith. It is noted that insolvency is an economic category, requires knowledge of the balance sheet of the enterprise, the economic component of its assets and liabilities, and so on. In order to establish the facts of bankruptcy, fictitious bankruptcy or hidden bankruptcy, it is proposed to conduct a mandatory economic examination of the debtor before initiating bankruptcy proceedings.
Practice of compensation for moral damage in labor law of Ukraine and foreign countries
Authors: Kyselova O.I. , Soldatenko M.
Published: August 2021

The problems of legislative regulation of compensation for moral damage caused to an employee in terms of labor liability of the employer are studied. It is established that the current labor legislation does not contain a clear and sufficient regulation of this issue, so compensation for moral damage under labor legislation is an urgent problem at this stage of development. Thus, the Labor Code of Ukraine does not contain the very concept of nonpecuniary damage, indications of any criteria that affect the amount of compensation, does not provide sectoral specifics of protection of employee rights, therefore, the law enforcer is forced to address many issues of the Civil Code . All this, in our opinion, creates gaps in labor law. Therefore, it is proposed to develop clear criteria for determining the presence or absence of moral suffering of the employee as a result of violation of his labor rights guaranteed by law. In addition, it is determined that in Ukraine to this day there are a number of obstacles to the formation of uniform judicial practice for resolving labor disputes. One of them, in our opinion, is the lack of clearly defined criteria for determining the amount of non-pecuniary damage. After analyzing the experience of foreign countries on compensation for moral damage to employees in labor law, and the experience of Ukraine on this issue, we propose to introduce into law a specific list of cases that cause non-pecuniary damage in labor law, as well as to establish a minimum amount of moral damage. when the court decision determines its size, which is not proportional to the losses incurred by the injured person. Also, we consider it expedient to create certain subdivisions in the courts that would deal exclusively with labor disputes. A positive application of this practice would be the ability to elect judges from these units from ordinary citizens involved in labor relations, following the example of France. Such a system helps to increase the level of trust of employees and employers in the court and the resolution of labor disputes, including cases of compensation for moral damage.
Implementation of balance scorecard and key performance indicator on customer service employee productivity
Authors: Ruli Caecilia , Kristanto Heru
Published: August 2021

This research aims to find out the implementation of balance scorecard and key performance indicator on customer service employee productivity. Participants of this study were customer service employees. This method of research is qualitative. Data collection techniques by means of observation, documentation, and interviews. Qualitative data analysis used includes the stages of data analysis is data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The research concluded that the implementation of Balance Scorecard and Key performance indicator as a Productivity Meter for Customer Service Employees in Larissa Aesthetic Center has been good. This can be proven by the increase in Rupiah Revenue from MVG Customer service in 2019 amounting to Rp. 2,201,831,000. A customer perspective, calculated based on customer retention, shows that the customer retention has increased by 0.7 %. Thus, it can be concluded, that a customer perspective as measured by customer retention is good. This research has contributed to uncovering the influence of Balanced Scorecard on the design of performance management systems in companies and non-profit organizations that are beneficial for corporate evaluation and academic studies. For further research it is recommended, that it extends the observation period by comparison between years, using different organizations or companies, and as well as the addition of research variables.
Influence of the placental cord insertion site on the placental mass and the birth weight in dichorionic diamniotic twins
Authors: Tepla Iryna
Published: August 2021

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of the displacement of the umbilical cord insertion site from the centre of the placenta on the placental mass and the birth weight of dichorionic diamniotic twins and to consider the importance of the direction of the displacement, as well as to assess the influence of the umbilical cord displacement on the placental mass and the birth weight of dichorionic diamniotic twins taking into account the direction of displacement.

Material and methods. The study was performed on 135 dichorionic diamniotic pairs: 68 opposite-sex, 35 same-sex males, and 32 same-sex females. The impact of an absolute cord displacement from the centroid of the placental disc and the direction of its shifting were compared with the birth weight and the placental mass.

Results. In the investigated group, a central insertion was revealed in 6 (2.2 %), eccentric – in 224 (83.0 %), marginal – in 31 (11.5 %), and velamentous – in 9 (3.3 %) cases. The first two types of cord insertion are considered to be normal, the third and the fourth are seen as abnormal. The placental mass was in a strong positive correlation with the birth weight (r=0.71, p<0.0001). The placentas with an eccentric cord insertion had a smaller surface area. A negative correlation was established between the displacement of the cord insertion site and the placental mass (r=-0.4284, p<0.0001) as well as the birth weight (r=-0.6115, p<0.0001). The shift along the long axis was of greater importance than in relation to the shorter one. The placental mass and the birth weight were higher in the new-borns with a normal cord insertion site. In the abnormal cord insertion group, 32.5 % of the infants were under the 10th birth weight percentile, in the normal cord insertion group – only 8.3 %.

Conclusions. The birth weight of dichorionic diamniotic twins and their placental mass are negatively correlated with the distance of the umbilical cord insertion site from the placental centre. The insertion site displacement along the long axis has a stronger negative effect on the birth weight and the placental mass in comparison with the shifting along the short axis. The placentas with an eccentric cord insertion have a smaller surface area.