bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DARC Regulates Angiogenesis by Mediating Vascular Endothelial Cell Migration
Authors: Wang Xiaolin , Bian Yongqian , Li Yuejun , Li Jing , Zhao Congying , Li Jinqing , Li Xueyong
Published: December 2020

Background: DARC (The Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines) is a kind of glycosylated membrane protein that binds to members of the CXC chemokine family associated with angiogenesis and has recently been reported to be implicated in diverse normal physiologic processes. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of DARC in angiogenesis, which is known to generate new capillary blood vessels from preexisting ones. Methods: HDMECs (Human dermal microvascular endothelial cells) were divided into two groups (DARC overexpression group, and control group). We used Brdu staining to detect cell proliferation, and wound healing assay to detect cell migration. Then tube formation assay were observed. Also, western blot and immunofluorescent staining were used to estimate the relationship between DARC and RhoA (Ras homolog gene family, member A). Results: HDMECs proliferation, migration, and tube formation were inhibited significantly when DARC was overexpressed intracellular. DARC impaired microfilament dynamics and intercellular connection in migrating cells, and RhoA activation underlay the effect of DARC on endothelial cell. Furthermore, DARC inhibited the formation of new capillaries in vitro. Conclusion: Our ﬁndings revealed the role of DARC in the angiogenic process and provided a novel mechanism for RhoA activation during endothelial cell migration and angiogenesis.
The LINC00504/Mir-4739/KLK4 Axis Facilitates Cell Proliferation and Suppresses Cell Apoptosis Through Triggering The Wnt/Β-Catenin Pathway In Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Wu Di , Jia Hongyao , Zhang Zhiru , Li Sijie
Published: December 2020

Background: Currently, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been validated to exert critical influence on the malignant progression of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). LncRNA long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 504 (LINC00504) has been recently reported as a tumor facilitator in the cellular processes of several cancers. However, its function in TNBC remains unknown.Methods: CCK-8 and colony formation assays were used to detect the cell viability and proliferation in TNBC. Flow cytometry analysis was utilized to measure the cycle and apoptosis of TNBC cells. The levels of key proteins associated with cell apoptosis or the β-catenin pathway were detected through western blot analysis. The activity of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was measured by the TOP/FOP flash assay. ChIP assay was conducted to confirm the binding between LINC00504 and its transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). RIP and luciferase reporter assays were used to detect and verify the interaction among LINC00504 and its downstream molecule.Results: LncRNA LINC00504 was upregulated in TNBC, and silenced LINC00504 suppressed cell proliferation and triggers cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 stage and cell apoptosis in TNBC cells. STAT3 can transcriptionally activate LINC00504 and LINC00504 served as a molecular sponge of microRNA (miR-4379). Kallikrein related peptidase 4 (KLK4) was the target gene of miR-4379 and activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. LINC00504 upregulated KLK4 via competitively binding with miR-4379 to activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in TNBC. The suppression on TNBC cell proliferation and the promotion on TNBC cell cycle arrest and apoptosis under LINC00504 knockdown were rescued by miR-4379 depletion or KLK4 overexpression.Conclusions: The LINC00504/miR-4379/KLK4 axis promotes cell growth and cell cycle progression as well as suppresses cell apoptosis through activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
High-Intensity Exercise Training Protects The Brain Against Autoimmune Neuroinflammation: Regulation of Microglial Redox and Pro-Inflammatory Functions
Authors: Zaychik Yifat , Fainstein Nina , Touloumi Olga , Goldberg Yehuda , Hamdi Liel , Segal Shir , Nabat Hanan , Zoidou Sofia , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Katz Abram , Hur Tamir Ben , Einstein Ofira
Published: December 2020

Background: Exercise training induces beneficial effects on neurodegenerative diseases, and specifically on multiple sclerosis (MS) and its model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, it is unclear whether exercise training exerts direct protective effects on the central nervous system (CNS), nor are the mechanisms of neuroprotection fully understood. In this study, we investigated the direct neuroprotective effects of high-intensity continuous training (HICT) against the development of autoimmune neuroinflammation and the role of resident microglia.Methods: We used the transfer EAE model to examine the direct effects of training on the CNS. Healthy mice performed HICT by treadmill running, followed by injection of encephalitogenic proteolipid (PLP)- reactive T-cells to induce EAE. EAE severity was assessed clinically and pathologically. Brain microglia from sedentary and HICT healthy mice, as well as 5-days post EAE induction (prior to onset of disease) were analyzed ex vivo for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) formation, mRNA expression of M1/M2 markers and neurotrophic factors, and secretion of cytokines and chemokines. Results: Transfer of encephalitogenic T-cells into HICT mice resulted in milder EAE, compared to sedentary mice, as indicated by reduced clinical severity, attenuated T-cell and neurotoxic macrophage/microglial infiltration, and reduced loss of myelin and axons. In healthy mice, HICT reduced the number of resident microglia without affecting their profile. Isolated microglia from HICT mice after transfer of encephalitogenic T-cells exhibited reduced ROS formation and released less IL-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein in response to PLP-stimulation.Conclusions: HICT protects the CNS against autoimmune neuroinflammation by reducing microglial-derived ROS formation, neurotoxicity and pro-inflammatory responses involved in propagation of autoimmune neuroinflammation.
Exosomal lncRNA PVT1/VEGFA Axis Promotes Colon Cancer Metastasis and Stemness by Downregulation of Tumor Suppressor miR-152-3p
Authors: Lai Shiue-Wei , Chen Ming-Yao , Hsieh Ming-Shou , Huang Ting-Yi , Yeh Chi-Tai , Lee Wei-Hwa , Cherng Yih-Giun
Published: December 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Identification Sixteen Metabolic Genes as Potential Biomarkers for Colon Adenocarcinoma 
Authors: Cui Binbin , Zhao Fuqiang , Liu Yanlong , Gu Xinyue , Zhang Bomiao , Song Chengxin
Published: December 2020

Purpose Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is the most common primary malignant tumor of the digestive tract. It is still important to find important markers that affect the prognosis of COAD. This research aims to identify some key prognosis-related metabolic genes (PRMG) and establish a clinical prognosis model for COAD patients. Method We used The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to obtain gene expression profiles of COAD, and then identified differentially expressed prognostic-related metabolic genes through R language and Perl software, Through univariate Cox analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox analysis to obtain target genes, established metabolic genes prognostic models and risk scores. Through COX regression analysis, independent risk factors affecting the prognosis of COAD were analyzed, and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis of independent prognostic factors was performed and a nomogram for predicting overall survival was constructed. Perform the consistency index (C-index) test and decision curve analysis (DCA) on the nomogram, and use Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to identify the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway of model genes. Result We selected PRMG based on the expression of metabolic genes, and used LASSO Cox regression to construct 16 metabolic gene (SEPHS1, P4HA1, ENPP2, PTGDS, GPX3, CP, ASPA, POLR3A, PKM, POLR2D , XDH, EPHX2, ADH1B, HMGCL, GPD1L and MAOA) models. The risk score generated from our model can well predict the survival prognosis of COAD. A nomogram based on the clinicopathological characteristics and risk scores of COAD can personally predict the overall survival rate of COAD patients. Conclusion We comprehensively identified metabolic genes related to the prognosis of COAD. The risk score based on the expression of 16 metabolic genes can effectively predict the prognosis of patients with COAD.
Clinical Characteristics in Patients with Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia Caused by Extensively Drug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Yujun , Huang Xiaomei , Wang Yuyao , Pan Chuzhi , Mo Zexun , Huang Muchao , Fang Changquan , Guo Penghao , Chen Huiling , Zhao Zhuxiang , Zhao Ziwen , Wei Shuquan
Published: December 2020

Background Extremely drug-resistant (XDR) Acinetobacter baumannii （A. baumannii）has been of a great concern. The relationship between XDR and patient outcomes remains unclear. We investigated the clinical features, risk factors, and outcomes of Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP)caused by XDR A. baumannii. Methods A multicenter retrospective case-control study was performed to determine factors associated with XDR A. baumannii pneumonia from 5 teaching hospitals in Guangzhou, China. Results 76 patients were enrolled in the study. XDR A. baumannii pneumonia patients were tend to be smoker (11.9% vs 3.9%, P = 0.130) and older (76.5±11.2 vs 70.3±16.4, P = 0.007) and had more comorbid diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (48.7% vs 21.1%, P = 0.001) and renal failure (21.1% vs 3.9%, P = 0.002) and had higher APACHE II score (65.8% vs 47.4%, P = 0.033). Invasive procedures including insertion of urinary catheter, nasogastric tube, central venous/arterial catheter, bronchoscopy and mechanical ventilation along with using β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor and carbapenem were also risk factors for XDR A. baumannii pneumonia. Multivariate analysis showed the APACHE II score >=20 (OR, 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1–4.1, P = 0.023), COPD (OR, 9.6; 95% CI: 2.0–45.5, P = 0.004), central venous/arterial catheter placement (OR,11.5; 95% CI: 1.1-117.8, P = 0.040), low albumin levels (OR, 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1-1.4, P = 0.001) and using β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor (OR,15.9; 95% CI: 2.7-94.2, P = 0.002) were independent risk factors for XDR A. baumannii pneumonia. Compared with the non-XDR A. baumannii patients, the XDR A. baumannii pneumonia increased length of mechanical ventilation (11.1±12.3 vs 5.1±5.6, P = 0.000), hospital stay (42.2±24.3 vs 34.8±18.0, P = 0.036) and ICU (Intensive Care Unit) stay (27.5±19.0 vs 20.0±20.5, P = 0.020), but it did not increase in-hospital mortality (47.4% vs 32.9%, P = 0.137). Conclusions XDR A. baumannii pneumonia was strongly related to systemic illnesses, invasive procedure, low albumin levels and the APACHE II score and increasing the length of mechanical ventilation and hospital stay. But it did not increase in-hospital mortality.
Validity of 2015 ESC Risk Assessment in Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in China
Authors: Gong Su-Gang , Li Chao , Zhao Qin-Hua , Jiang Rong , Wu Wen-Hui , Luo Ci-Jun , Qiu Hong-Ling , Wang Lan , Zhang Rui
Published: December 2020

Background: The 2015 European pulmonary hypertension guidelines recommend a risk stratification strategy for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We aimed to investigate the validation and potential prognostic information in our patients.Methods: The risk assessment variables proposed by the PH guidelines was performed, using World Health Organization function class, 6-min walking distance, brain natriuretic peptide or its N-terminal fragment, right arterial pressure, cardiac index, mixed venous saturation, right atrium area, pericardial effusion, peak oxygen consumption and ventilatory equivalents for carbon dioxide. An abbreviated version also was applied.Results: The 392 patients were enrolled between 2009 and 2018. After a median interval of 13 months, re-evaluation assessments were available for 386 subjects. The PH guidelines risk tool may effectively discriminate three risk group and mortality (p< 0.001) both at baseline and re-evaluation. Meanwhile, its simplified risk version was valid for baseline and accurately predicted the risk of death in all risk group (p< 0.001). At the time of re-evaluation, the percentage of low risk group has an increase, but a greater proportion achieved high risk group and a lesser proportion maintained in intermediate risk group.Conclusions: The 2015 European PH guidelines and its simplified version risk stratification assessment present effective discrimination of different risk groups and accurate mortality estimates in patients with IPAH. Changes of risk proportion at re-evaluation implicated that natural treatment decisions may not be consistently with goal-oriented treatment strategy.
Restoration of Colorectal Services in the Recovery Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A view from Oxford
Authors: Yeung Trevor , Merchant Julia , Chen Patrick , Smart Corinne , Ghafoor Hamira , Woodhouse Fran , James David , Symons Nicholas , Boyce Stephen , Jones Oliver , George Bruce , Lindsey Ian
Published: December 2020

BackgroundThe coronavirus pandemic has significantly disrupted the way we deliver healthcare worldwide. We have been flexible and creative in order to continue providing elective colorectal cancer operations and to restart services for benign cases during the recovery period of the pandemic. In this paper, we describe the impact of coronavirus on our elective services and how we have implemented new patient pathways to allow us to continue providing patient care.MethodsData on major colorectal elective resections was prospectively collected in an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) database. Data on the number of proctology cases and telemed appointments were collected from the hospital theatre information management system and electronic patient record system respectively. ResultsDuring the pandemic, there was a complete shift towards cancer cases, with benign services and proctology cases being placed on hold. Hospital length of stay was reduced. We implemented earlier hospital discharge and more intense telephone follow up after elective major surgery. This has not resulted in an increase in post-operative complications, nor any increase in readmission into hospital. During the recovery phase, we have introduced a higher proportion of telemed consultations, including one-stop telemed proctology clinics, resulting in straight to tests or investigations.ConclusionsWe have created a streamlined multi-disciplinary pathway to reinstate our elective colorectal services as soon as possible and to minimise potential harm caused to patients whose treatment have been delayed. We anticipate many of these changes will be permanently incorporated into our clinical practice once the pandemic is over.
Assessing longitudinal and cross-sectional effects of age on adult obesity in an Iranian population: results from a large population-based cohort study
Authors: Alhossaini Mahsa Rafiee , Kazemnejad Anoshirvan , Zayeri Farid , Sadeghi Masoumeh
Published: December 2020

AbstractThe risk of obesity commonly changes with age, which is a longitudinal (aging) effect. Also, individuals who enter the study of the same age have similar living conditions that may influence their obesity risk in a particular way; this is a cross-sectional effect. To assess the cross-sectional and longitudinal effects of age, using a Marginal Logistic Regression model. In the current study, we used the information of individuals who had participated in the Isfahan Cohort Study. Participants were a large group of Iranian adults over 35 years of age in 2001, who lived in the central region of Iran. Repeated measurements were obtained in 2001, 2007, and 2013. From 2001 to 2013, the percentage of obesity in men and women has raised from 13% to 18% and from 31% to 44%, respectively. Both cross-sectional and longitudinal effects of age were significantly associated with the odds ratio of obesity. There was a rise in the probability of obesity for individuals with a baseline age of 35 to 60 and a decline for the older ones. The odds of obesity had about a 2% increase (on average) with each year of aging, regardless of the baseline age. The high frequency of individuals with obesity and its fast growth has been a serious public health issue among Iranian adults aged 35-60 years, especially in women. To better understand the effect of age on obesity and identify the related factors, both cross-sectional and longitudinal effects of age should be considered.
Severe pantothenic acid deficiency induces alterations in the intestinal mucosal proteome of starter Pekin ducks
Authors: Tang Jing , Feng Yulong , Zhang Bo , Wu Yongbao , Guo Zhanbao , Liang Suyun , Zhou Zhengkui , Xie Ming , Hou Shuisheng
Published: December 2020

Background: Pantothenic acid deficiency (PAD) results in growth depression and intestinal hypofunction of animals. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be established. Mucosal proteome might reflect dietary influences on physiological processes.Results: A total of 128 one-day-old Pekin ducks were divided into two groups, with 8 replicates and 8 birds per replicate. All the ducks were fed either a PAD or a pantothenic acid adequate (control, CON) diet. After a 16-day feeding period, two ducks from each replicate were sampled to measure plasma parameters, intestinal morphology, and mucosal proteome. High mortality, growth retardation, fasting hypoglycemia, reduced plasma insulin, and oxidative stress were observed in the PAD group compared to the CON group. Furthermore, PAD induced morphological alterations of the small intestine indicated by reduced villus height and villus surface area of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The duodenum mucosal proteome of ducks showed that 198 proteins were upregulated and 223 proteins were downregulated (> 1.5-fold change) in the PAD group compared to those in the CON group. Selected proteins were confirmed by Western blotting. Pathway analysis of these proteins exhibited the suppression of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, fatty acid beta oxidation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, oxidative stress, and intestinal absorption in the PAD group, indicating impaired energy generation and abnormal intestinal absorption. We also show that nine out of eleven proteins involved in regulation of actin cytoskeleton were upregulated by PAD, probably indicates reduced intestinal integrity.Conclusion: PAD leads to growth depression and intestinal hypofunction of ducks, which are associated with impaired energy generation, abnormal intestinal absorption, and regulation of actin cytoskeleton processes. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms of intestinal mucosa metabolic disorders due to PAD.
E-DEMOCRACY IN UKRAINE: CONDITION AND DEVELOPMENT TAKING INTO ACCOUNT EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE
Authors: Yansons Yanis
Published: December 2020

The work analyzes the mechanism of legal support of e-democracy development in Ukraine and European Union in a part of formation and implementation of its tools. A position of central executive authorities in Ukraine in the context of e-democracy development is considered.

The Ukrainian legislative base of formation and realization of e-democracy tools have been studied, and ones, considered priority in the aspect of their legal support and implementation level, have been separated. These e-democracy tools in Ukraine include: e-consulting, e-petitions, e-appeals, participation budgets (public budgets).

The analysis of e-democracy tools, offered and implemented in the EU countries allowed to establish a series of them, needed additional attention from both state authorities of Ukraine and Ukrainian publicity. These tools include: e-voting, e-referendum, e-plebiscites, and e-election process totally.

Based on comparison analysis of using e-democracy tools in Ukraine and EU, there have been separated obstacles on the way of potential improvement of the national legal mechanism of e-democracy development as to its tools usage at the national, regional and local levels. The main ones are: imperfection of resource provision of the development legal mechanism; absence of an integral idea of the development strategy of e-democracy as an institution in the state; predominance of e-services automation development over development of tools of active involvement of citizens in participation in the public-political life of the country.

Recommendations for public authorities as to improvement of the existent legal mechanism of implementation, use and development of e-democracy tools in a part of development of a series of strategic documents that must fix the priority of e-democracy development, its resource support; comprehensive support to public initiatives as to implementation and development of e-democracy and e-participation tools and so on, have been substantiated.
Dispersed organic matter characteristics as an indicator of rock alteration degree of the Safyanovskoe copper-sulphide deposit (Middle Urals)
Authors:   The Zavaritsky Institute of Geology and Geochemistry of the Ural Branch of RAS, SOROKA Elena Industrovna , GALEEV Akhmet Askhatovich ,   Kazan (Volga region) Federal University, PETROVA Vera Igorevna ,   VNIIOkeangeologia, LYUTOEV Vladimir Pavlovich ,   VNIIOkeangeologia, LEONOVA Lubov’ Vladimirovna ,   Institute of Geology Komi Science Centre of the Ural Branch of RAS
Published: December 2020

Relevance of the study is due to the importance of composition and maturity of the dispersed organic matter (DOM) as indicators of rock forming conditions, which may contribute to the paleoecological reconstruction of sedimentation conditions for rocks in the ore-bearing stratum of the Safyanovskoe deposit. Objective: to analyze the composition and characteristics of DOM in carbon-siliceous rocks of the ore-bearing stratum of the Safyanovsky copper-pyrite deposit. The obtained characteristics of the DOM make it possible to reveal the source of original accumulation and the level of its transformation under the influence of various geological processes. Methods. A detailed study of DOM was carried out by the EPR method (electron paramagnetic resonance) for powder preparations. EPR spectra were recorded at room temperature on X-band spectrometers DX-70, ESR 70-03 DX/2, and SE/X-2547 RadioPAN. The analytical procedure for studying organic matter (OM) included: determination of insoluble residue and C org content in the rock, extraction of the chloroform bitumoids (CB) and the alcohol-benzol bitumoids (ABB), humic acids (HA), determining the group composition of CB and hydrocarbons (HC), chromatographic fractionation with determination of the sum of methane-naphthenic and aromatic fractions of hydrocarbons, GC-MS analysis of n-alkanes, cyclic and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). GC-MS analysis was performed on the complex Hewlett Packard 6850/5973 with a quadrupole mass detector and analytical information processing software. Results. Analysis of the EPR spectra of carbon-siliceous rocks of the Safyanovskoe deposit showed the presence of the two types of carbon signal (C-org), characteristic of the plant and the animal residues. It was also found that the DOM has never been exposed to temperatures greater than 300 °C. Geochemical analysis of OM indicates that DOM is at a high maturation stage (residual organic matter (ROM) > 99%). But the type of distribution of polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) suggests that the primary OM was specifically altered at elevated temperatures. Conclusions. DOM of carbon-siliceous rocks of the Safyanovsky deposit is genetically the same, its type is mainly sapropelic and accumulation is associated with marine conditions. A characteristic feature is, on the one hand, its high polymerization, which is typical for DOM of the stage of late mesocatagenesis, and, on the other hand, its molecular composition does not allow us to talk about the maturation of DOM in the process of natural regional metamorphism.
Simulation of the impact of economic development on social development of the country
Authors: Rayevnyeva Olena , Aksonova Iryna , Brovko Olha , Filip Stanislav
Published: December 2020

In the current conditions of development of the international and national economy, an important task of statistical research is to conduct an objective and timely assessment and modeling of the relationship between indicators of economic and social development. Based on the results of these studies, reasonable management influences of the state on the adjustment and regulation of the country’s development are accepted. The article is devoted to the study of the relationship between the main components of economic and social development of the country and the construction of a set of models for forecasting the prospects of the country. The object of the study is the socio-economic condition of the country. The article proposes an algorithmic model for assessing the impact of economic development on society, which allows to identify key economic indicators that influence and shape the social development of the country. The practical value of the algorithmic model is to develop a system of evaluation and selection as a result of modeling the most significant factors that shape the social development of the country. The study confirmed the hypothesis of the dominant impact of economic development on society and determined that the main economic factors are the level of competencies that satisfy the modern labour market, technical development of businesses and their competitiveness in markets.
The effect of loan granted factor on peer-to-peer lending (funded loan) in Indonesia
Authors: Kurniawan Fajri , Wijaya Chandra
Published: December 2020

This study aims to determine whether the loan granted factor can affect peer-to-peer lending in Indonesia. The factors investigated in this research are the loan amount, loan period, interest rate, gender, and loan history using the data from registered and licensed peer-to-peer lending by the Financial Services Authority or Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) on November 2019. By examining 1,006 loans, the analytical method used is binary logistic regression with a significance level of alpha 0.05. The results of this research are loan amount, loan period, and loan history have the strongest impact on borrowers’ loan funding decision, suggesting that these loan characteristics can signal information that standard measures are used for loan funding. However, interest rate and gender have no significant effect on loan granted. Overall, loan funding decisions are based on proper and relevant signals given by loan characteristics.
Effect of blocked trash rack on open channel infrastructure
Authors: Zayed Mahmoud , Farouk Elzahry
Published: December 2020

Rack clogging can produce dramatic changes in channel hydraulics. Previous studies have investigated the hydraulics of trash racks for various parameters, but the methodology and the findings were not sufficiently refined. Free-surface depression has also been neglected so far. This study considers the rack blockages as impermeable and box-shaped accumulations (instead of considering their bar thicknesses or spacings) for the hydraulic conditions. Hence, flume experiments were performed to clarify the impact of the governing variables on the rack head loss and to examine the characteristics of free-surface depression (i.e. the length of free-surface depression and maximum depth of the depression) because of predefined blockage ratios. The results prove that the rack head loss and flow turbulence behind the rack mainly depend on the rack blockage and Froude number. However, the results for the blockage ratio ≤0.13 at the approach Froude number ≤0.12 has a minor effect on the resulting rack head loss; therefore, the effects are negligible. This study proposed design equations that determine the rack head loss, length of free-surface depression, and maximum depth of the depression behind the rack because of the box-shaped accumulation body that could be used by water engineers. Furthermore, the study improves upon the process understanding of rack blockages to avoid the potential hazards of open channel infrastructure.
Profiles of Two Glycaemia Modifying Drugs on the Expression of Rat and Human Sulfotransferases
Authors: Dutta Sangita M. , Chen Guangping , Maiti Smarajit
Published: December 2020

Aims:

To study the effects of blood glucose regulating compounds on human and rat sulfotransferases
(SULTs) expressions.

Background:

Phase-II enzymes, sulfotransferases catalyze the sulfuryl-group-transfer to endogenous/exogenous
compounds. The alteration of expressions of SULTs may have influence on the sulfation of its substrate
and other biomolecules.

Objectives:

The influence of the altered biotransformation might alter different biochemical events, drug-drug
interactions and bioaccumulation or excretion pattern of certain drug.

Methods:

In this brief study, diabetes-inducing drug streptozotocin (STZ; 10 or 50 mg/kg to male Sprague Dawley
rat for 2 weeks) or hyperglycemia controlling drug tolbutamide (TLB 0.1 or 10μM to human hepato-carcinoma
cells, HepG2 for 10 days) was applied and the SULTs expressions were verified. Extensive protein-protein
(STa, SULT2A1/DHEAST) interactions were studied by the STRING (Search-Tool-for-the-Retrieval-of-Interacting
Genes/Proteins) Bioinformatics-software.

Results:

Present result suggests that while STZ increased the STa (in rat) (dehydroepiandrosterone catalyzing
SULT; DHEAST in human HepG2), tolbutamide decreased PPST (phenol catalyzing SULT) and DHEAST activity
in human HepG2 cells. Moderate decreases of MPST (monoamine catalyzing SULT) and EST (estrogen
catalyzing) activities are noticed in this case. STa/DHEAST was found to be highly interactive to SHBG/-
sex-hormone-binding-globulin; PPARα/lipid-metabolism-regulator; FABP1/fatty-acid-binding-protein.

Conclusions:

Streptozotocin and tolbutamide, these two glycaemia-modifying drugs demonstrated regulation of
rat and human SULTs activities. The reciprocal nature of these two drugs on SULTs expression may be associated
with their contrasting abilities in influencing glucose-homeostasis. Possible association of certain SULT-isoform
with hepatic fat-regulations may indicate an unfocused link between calorie-metabolism and the
glycemic-state of an individual. Explorations of this work may uncover the role of sulfation metabolism of specific
biomolecule on cellular glycemic regulation.
Artery of Percheron Infarction: A Characteristic Pattern of Ischemia and Variable Clinical Presentation: A Literature Review
Authors: Kheiralla Osama , Alghamdi Salem , Aljondi Rowa , Tajaldeen Abdulrahman , Bakheet Adel
Published: December 2020

The Artery of Percheron (AOP) is an uncommon anatomic variant that provides arterial
supply to the paramedian region of the thalami and bilaterally to the rostral part of the midbrain; it
is a solitary arterial trunk that branches from a proximal segment of the posterior cerebral artery (PCA).
Although AOP infarction results in a characteristic pattern of ischemia—namely bilateral
paramedian thalamic infarct with or without midbrain involvement—it may cause diagnostic difficulties
due to the variety of its clinical presentations and wide differentials, as well as its small diameter
and the difficulty of obtaining visualization through diagnostic imaging. Early neuroimaging
of AOP infarction and correct diagnosis are mandatory for early initiation of the appropriate
treatment and better patient outcomes. In this study, we discuss imaging the patterns of AOP infarction
and its differentials and clinical presentation.
A Universidade do Minho em tempos de pandemia: Tomo III: Projeções
Authors: Martins Manuela , Rodrigues Eloy
Published: December 2020

Nesta obra reúnem-se cerca de meia centena de textos que retratam, a partir de diferente experiências, perspetivas e olhares disciplinares, a forma como a pandemia provocada pelo vírus SARS-CoV-2 foi sentida na Universidade do Minho, a primeira universidade portuguesa a ser atingida pelos seus efeitos, a partir de 7 de março de 2020. Os contributos aqui reunidos exprimem o modo como a comunidade académica se organizou para garantir o funcionamento da instituição e o cumprimento da sua missão, quer no âmbito do ensino, quer da investigação e da inovação, não dispensando uma necessária reflexão crítica sobre a nova realidade que se afirmou com a pandemia, o seu significado e os impactos da mesma na sociedade. Dado o elevado número e a diversidade dos contributos, a obra organiza-se em três volumes, que tentam dar resposta a três possíveis interrogações. Assim, o 1º volume, com o subtítulo de ‘Reflexões’, procura equacionar diferentes perspetivas em torno da questão: Mas o que é isto? Já o 2º volume, que recebe o subtítulo de ‘(Re)Ações’, corporiza um conjunto de textos que reflete as atuações em diferentes áreas da dimensão académica, elucidando quanto ao modo: Como reagimos? Finalmente, o 3º volume, que acusa o subtítulo de ‘Projeções’, dá expressão a uma inevitável pergunta: E agora? Pois, afinal, todos sabemos que isto não vai, nem pode, ficar tudo bem.
The surgical progress of kidney transplantation programme in Rijeka
Authors: Fučkar Željko , Markić Dean , Juričić Kazimir , Koraca Chinchella Ivana , Oguić Romano , Španjol Josip
Published: December 2020

Riječki transplantacijski program započeo je eksperimentalnom kirurgijom i organizacijom centra za dijalizu na Odjelu za urologiju Klinike za kirurgiju na Sušaku. Uz pomoć vlastitog iskustva i boravkom u vanjskim centrima izvrsnosti ostvareni su uvjeti za početak rada s kandidatima za transplantaciju bubrega. Tako je 30. siječnja 1971. godine u našem centru učinjena prva uspješna transplantacija bubrega u Hrvatskoj i tadašnjoj Jugoslaviji. Slijedile su godine u kojima je transplantacija bubrega postala rutinski operacijski zahvat, ali zahvat koji je uvijek zahtijevao angažman multidisciplinarnog tima. Tijekom pet desetljeća predanog rada s kirurške strane su uvedena brojna unaprjeđenja transplantacijskoga programa, od kojih su mnoga po prvi put učinjena u Hrvatskoj i u zemljama u okruženju. To su, primjerice, ortotopne transplantacije bubrega, en-bloc transplantacija bubrega, transplantacija uz korištenje urinarne derivacije i supstitucije vijugom tankog crijeva, dvostruka transplantacija bubrega te transplantacija potkovičastog bubrega. U ovom preglednom radu prikazat ćemo kirurške posebnosti našega transplantacijskog programa.
Tumori nakon transplantacije bubrega
Authors: Vukić Tea , Bašić-Jukić Nikolina , Furić-Čunko Vesna , Jurić Ivana , Kaštelan Željko
Published: December 2020

Završni stadij kronične bubrežne bolesti zahtijeva liječenje nadomještanjem bubrežne funkcije različitim metodama, od kojih je najbolja transplantacija bubrega, zbog značajno više stope preživljavanja i kvalitete života u usporedbi s dijalizom. U početcima transplantacijske medicine, kada su transplantacije izvođene samo u mlađih pacijenata, a preživljenje presatka bilo relativno kratko zbog visoke stope akutnih odbacivanja, zloćudni tumori predstavljali su manje važan problem. Vodeći uzrok gubitka presatka u vrijeme suvremene imunosupresije je smrt pacijenata s funkcionirajućim presatkom, a upravo su zloćudni tumori, nakon srčanožilnih bolesti i infekcija, na trećem mjestu uzročnika smrti u populaciji pacijenata s transplantacijom koja je sve starija i pod sve dužim kumulativnim djelovanjem imunosupresiva. Prema podatcima Registra za transplantaciju Australije i Novog Zelanda 10 % pacijenata razvije tumor nakon 10 godina, 25 % nakon 20 godina, a nakon 30 godina čak 40 % primatelja bubrega pod imunosupresivnom terapijom razvije tumor. U kohorti od 175 000 primatelja u Sjedinjenim Američkim Državama je identificirano 10 656 tumora, što je 2,1 puta više nego u općoj populaciji. Uočen je značajan porast rizika za više od 30 različitih primarnih tumora te snižena incidencija tumora dojke i prostate u odnosu na opću populaciju.
Učestalost i raspodjela kalcificiranosti ilijačnih arterija u pacijenata u kojih je učinjena transplantacija bubrega
Authors: Žuža Iva , Markić Dean , Orlić Lidija , Miletić Damir , Vukelić Ivan , Ferizović Edina , Zgrablić David , Tokmadžić Dorian , Dodig Doris
Published: December 2020

Cilj: Prikazati učestalost i raspodjelu kalcificiranosti ilijačnih arterija u pacijenata u kojih je učinjena transplantacija bubrega u našem transplantacijskom centru. Ispitanici i metode: Retrospektivnim istraživanjem bili su obuhvaćeni pacijenti u Kliničkom bolničkom centru Rijeka u kojih je između 1. siječnja 2015. godine i 31. prosinca 2018. godine učinjena transplantacija bubrega. Procjena kalcificiranosti ilijačnih arterija učinjena je uz pomoć kompjutorizirane tomografije (CT). Rezultati: U promatranom razdoblju u našem transplantacijskom centru učinjeno je 115 transplantacija bubrega, a 92 (80 %) pacijenata imalo je prijeoperacijski CT. Prosječna dob pacijenata bila je 60,3 godina, a 26 % pacijenata je imalo šećernu bolest kao osnovnu bolest. Arterijske kalcifikacije pronađene su u 72 (78 %) pacijenata. Kalcifikacije su najčešće pronađene na desnoj zajedničkoj ilijačnoj arteriji (63 pacijenata – 68,5 %), a najrjeđe na lijevoj vanjskoj ilijačnoj arteriji (23 pacijenta – 25 %). Zaključak: Većina naših pacijenata ima prisutne kalcifikacije na ilijačnim arterijama. Prijeoperacijsko utvrđivanje njihove raspodjele i proširenosti ima važnu ulogu prilikom planiranja transplantacije bubrega.
Repeated Digitized Assessment of Risk and Symptom Profiles During Inpatient Treatment of Affective Disorder: Observational Study
Authors: Richter Maike Frederike , Storck Michael , Blitz Rogério , Goltermann Janik , Seipp Juliana , Dannlowski Udo , Baune Bernhard T , Dugas Martin , Opel Nils
Published: December 2020

Background

Predictive models have revealed promising results for the individual prognosis of treatment response and relapse risk as well as for differential diagnosis in affective disorders. Yet, in order to translate personalized predictive modeling from research contexts to psychiatric clinical routine, standardized collection of information of sufficient detail and temporal resolution in day-to-day clinical care is needed. Digital collection of self-report measures by patients is a time- and cost-efficient approach to gain such data throughout treatment.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate whether patients with severe affective disorders were willing and able to participate in such efforts, whether the feasibility of such systems might vary depending on individual patient characteristics, and if digitally acquired assessments were of sufficient diagnostic validity.

Methods

We implemented a system for longitudinal digital collection of risk and symptom profiles based on repeated self-reports via tablet computers throughout inpatient treatment of affective disorders at the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Münster. Tablet-handling competency and the speed of data entry were assessed. Depression severity was additionally assessed by a clinical interviewer at baseline and before discharge.

Results

Of 364 affective disorder patients who were approached, 242 (66.5%) participated in the study; 88.8% of participants (215/242) were diagnosed with major depressive disorder, and 27 (11.2%) had bipolar disorder. During the duration of inpatient treatment, 79% of expected assessments were completed, with an average of 4 completed assessments per participant; 4 participants (4/242, 1.6%) dropped out of the study prematurely. During data entry, 89.3% of participants (216/242) did not require additional support. Needing support with tablet handling and slower data entry pace were predicted by older age, whereas depression severity at baseline did not influence these measures. Patient self-reporting of depression severity showed high agreement with standardized external assessments by a clinical interviewer.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that digital collection of self-report measures is a feasible, accessible, and valid method for longitudinal data collection in psychiatric routine, which will eventually facilitate the identification of individual risk and resilience factors for affective disorders and pave the way toward personalized psychiatric care.
Patient Attitudes Toward Telepsychiatry During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Nationwide, Multisite Survey
Authors: Guinart Daniel , Marcy Patricia , Hauser Marta , Dwyer Michael , Kane John M
Published: December 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated movement restrictions forced a rapid and massive transition to telepsychiatry to successfully maintain care continuity.

Objective

The aim of this study is to examine a large number of patients’ experiences of, use of, and attitudes toward telepsychiatry.

Methods

An anonymous 11-question survey was delivered electronically to 14,000 patients receiving telepsychiatry care at 18 participating centers across 11 US states between the months of April and June 2020, including questions about their age and length of service use, as well as experience and satisfaction with telepsychiatry on a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and report data.

Results

In total, 3070 patients with different age ranges participated. The overall experience using telepsychiatry was either excellent or good for 1189 (82.2%) participants using video and 2312 (81.5%) using telephone. In addition, 1922 (63.6%) patients either agreed or strongly agreed that remote treatment sessions (telephone or video) have been just as helpful as in-person treatment. Lack of commute (n=1406, 46.1%) and flexible scheduling/rescheduling (n=1389, 45.5%) were frequently reported advantages of telepsychiatry, whereas missing the clinic/hospital (n=936, 30.7%) and not feeling as connected to their doctor/nurse/therapist (n=752, 24.6%) were the most frequently reported challenges. After the current pandemic resolves, 1937 (64.2%) respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that they would consider using remote treatment sessions in the future.

Conclusions

Telepsychiatry is very well perceived among a large sample of patients. After the current pandemic resolves, some patients may benefit from continued telepsychiatry, but longitudinal studies are needed to assess impact on clinical outcomes and determine whether patients’ perceptions change over time.
Impactos Acadêmicos, Científicos e Sociais da Fundação da Liga Acadêmica de Neurocirurgia da Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro
Authors: Tápias Sperandio Vitor , Dezena Roberto Alexandre , Carmo Jorge Luís do , Cabral Gustavo Alvares , Brandão Marcella Adryanne Dias , Braga Silvio Quites Pena , Nyarko Osei Yaw , Cárdenas Paula Natalia Dussán
Published: December 2020

Introdução: Neurocirurgia é uma especialidade médica centrada na prevenção, diagnóstico, tratamento e reabilitação de patologias do sistema nervoso. A estruturação de uma liga acadêmica de Neurocirurgia possibilita o aprimoramento técnico-científico e valoriza o período de contato dos acadêmicos com a área. Ademais, a liga propicia meio eficiente para exercício da multidisciplinaridade por integrar membros de diferentes cursos. Objetivos: Os objetivos foram divididos em um tripé constituído por ensino, pesquisa e extensão. Dentro da temática ensino, o norte foi propiciar enriquecimento da formação acadêmica e abordagem de temas de importância que são de pouco destaque dentro da graduação. Na área de pesquisa realizou-se a discussão de casos clínicos e a elaboração de material científico, bem como a inserção dos membros em congressos, simpósios e jornadas da área da Neurocirurgia. Dentro do contexto da extensão, buscou-se integrar e conscientizar os acadêmicos em relação à valorização dos trabalhos desenvolvidos com a comunidade, impactar beneficamente a saúde pública e realizar eventos de divulgação da Neurocirurgia para a comunidade. Métodos: Ocorreram aulas teóricas semanais, contemplando temas básicos e patologias neurocirúrgicas. Houve inserção dos alunos no acompanhamento do atendimento em pronto-socorro e ambulatório, além de procedimentos neurocirúrgicos eletivos. Periodicamente os membros da liga realizaram reuniões com discussões acerca de casos clínicos e elaboração de material científico. Os membros da liga atuaram junto à comunidade através da conscientização e prevenção, realizando eventos e palestras nas instituições públicas de ensino da região. Resultado: Realizou-se um simpósio regional dentro da temática neurocirúrgica, com público-alvo composto por membros internos e externos à universidade, atingindo aproximadamente 350 pessoas. Relacionado à extensão, realizou-se projeto junto à comunidade visando prevenção e esclarecimento acerca do neurotrauma, totalizando um público de 500 escolares com idade entre 8 e 14 anos. Além disso, os membros da liga compareceram a congressos da área da Neurocirurgia e produziram material científico. Conclusão: A fundação da liga mostrou impacto positivo no desenvolvimento acadêmico de seus membros e repercutiu beneficamente na educação preventiva da comunidade, além de mostrar-se útil para a propagação do conhecimento neurocirúrgico.
Tratamento Cirúrgico das Doenças Degenerativas da Coluna Cervical. Revisão de literatura
Authors: Nagib Valente Chaar Victor , De Freitas Escudeiro Alana , Carneiro Marinho Pedro , Barros dos Santos Igor , Da Silva Menezes Alex Luís , Felipe Ribeiro Dias Luiz , De Lima Faro Sarah , Lobato Gomes Francinaldo
Published: December 2020

A doença degenerativa cervical, também chamada espondilose cervical, é uma consequência natural do envelhecimento, e definese por degeneração de elementos da coluna vertebral. O tratamento cirúrgico é fundamental nestas comorbidades quando não há possibilidade ou resposta à conduta conservadora.
Uma Pequena Convivência com o Cognominado: O Neurocirurgião da Segunda Metade do Século XX
Authors: Oscar Colli Benedito
Published: December 2020

Nas décadas de 1980 e 1990 efetuar viagens para o exterior para aprimoramento profissional era muito mais difícil que nos dias atuais, um alto custo financeiro. Naquela ocasião, os contatos eram efetuados por cartas e mais raramente através de fax, meio mais rápido de comunicação.[...]
Aureliano Tavares Bastos e a Neurocirurgia Brasileira
Authors: Brock Mario
Published: December 2020

Aureliano Cândido Tavares Bastos nasceu em 20 de abril de 1839 na cidade de Marechal Deodoro, que na época se chamava Alagoas e faleceu em Nice, na França, em 3 de dezembro de 1875 com apenas 46 anos de idade. É o patrono da cadeira número 35 da Academia Brasileira de Letras, por escolha do fundador Rodrigo Otávio. Era o primeiro de seis filhos do bacharel José Tavares Bastos, latinista e professor de filosofia, e de Rosa Cândida de Araújo.[...]