bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WIEDZA SZCZECINIAN NA TEMAT CHORÓB RZADKICH
Authors: Walat Anna , Skoczylas Michał Marian , Wełnicka Agnieszka , Kulig Małgorzata , Rodak Przemysław , Walczak Zuzanna , Jabłońska Agata
Published: May 2020

Introduction: The aim of the study was to assess knowledge about rare diseases among citizens of Szczecin (Poland).Material and methods: The study was performed by questioning 242 adult customers of Turzyn Shopping Centre in Szczecin (149 females and 93 males). The survey was conducted in the shopping mall on 23 February 2013 (control group) and during the celebration of Rare Disease Day and the 12th Polish Nationwide Cystic Fibrosis Week (“Dolina Mukolinków”) on 2 March 2013 (research group). The research tool was a questionnaire devised by the authors and filled out by the writing authors interviewer’s answers.Results: In the study group more people knew about the existence of Rare Disease Day than in the control group (86.02% vs 57.72%, chi­‍‑square test χ2 > χ2 1; 0.001, p < 0.001), but there was no significant difference between knowledge of when Rare Disease Day is celebrated. The definition of rare diseases compatible with the definition of the European Commission’s Health and Consumer Protection was reported only in the control group by 4 people. Examples of rare diseases were reported by 74.19% of the respondents in the study group and by 65.10% in the control group (more than 130 diseases were mentioned altogether). Usually, respondents mentioned fewer examples than were asked about in the questionnaire. The aim of Rare Disease Day was accurately specified by 86.02% of persons in the study group and 87.92% in the control group. Rare Disease Day personally concerns 30.11% of respondents in the study group and 10.07% of persons in the control group (OR = 3.85, 95% CI 0.9–3.6, χ2 > χ2 1; 0.001, p < 0.001).Conclusions: The respondents from the research group knew more about Rare Disease Day and defined the idea of it as closed in a significantly higher degree than the control group. There was no significant difference in the detailed knowledge about rare diseases in either group. This might indicate the need to educate society and patients, along with their families.
The assessment of beauty salon client awareness of risk factors relating to skin and nail fungal infections of the feety
Authors: Tumala Aleksandra , Marchlewicz Mariola
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Fungal infections of the skin and nails are one of the most common skin diseases in the world. The ever-growing number of fungal infections is caused by genetic factors, lack of prevention and insufficient knowledge about risk factors relating to fungal infections.

The aim of the project was to assess the awareness of beauty salon clients to fungal infections of the skin and nails of the feet, with a particular emphasis on the factors contributing to infection.

Materials and methods: The study was conducted among 125 clients of beauty salons.

The data was collected via an anonymous questionnaire comprising 30 questions.

Results: The majority of respondents (84% of women and 70% of men) considered the swimming pool as the main risk factor for fungal infection of the feet. The respondents listed specialists to whom they would turn after noticing suspicious skin changes on their feet. These were dermatologists (18% of responding women and 38% of responding men) as well as podologist (35% of responding women and 23% of responding men). However, the majority of respondents (45% of responding men and 33% of responding women) would use an over-the-counter antifungal medicine, easily obtained in a pharmacy, in case of suspected fungal nail infection (onychomycosis), without consulting a physician.

Conclusions: Most respondents know the risk factors contributing to fungal infections. However, a high percentage of them have low awareness of the actions to be taken when onychomycosis is suspected.
CIĄŻA W ROGU SZCZĄTKOWYM MACICY
Authors: Sroczyński Tomasz
Published: May 2020

Pregnancy in a rudimentary horn of the uterus, a rare form of ectopic pregnancy, develops in women affected by developmental abnormalities of the growth and fusion of the Müllerian paramesonephric ducts. In the Polish population, this problem affects 4–8 women per year. The paper analyzes the problems that are associated with pregnancy developing in the rudimentary horn. Due to the continuous progress in medical sciences, maternal mortality has been almost completely eliminated in this form of ectopic pregnancy, while neonatal survival has risen to about 20%. Further developments in medicine allow us to be moderately optimistic about further improvement of the treatment’s statistics.
CELLULIT – PRZYCZYNY, PROFILAKTYKA, LECZENIE. ARTYKUŁ NA PODSTAWIE PRACY MAGISTERSKIEJ ANNY TOMIKOWSKIEJ PT. „ŚWIADOMOŚĆ KOBIET NA TEMAT CELLULITE – OBRAZ KLINICZNY, ETIOPATOGENEZA, PROFILAKTYKA, METODY LECZENIA”, KTÓRA OBEJMUJE 107 STRON
Authors: Janda Katarzyna , Tomikowska Anna
Published: May 2020

Cellulite is a multifactorial etiology ailment. It changes the skin topography by the formation of the skin surface’s appearance, changes described as “orange peel”. This problem concerns 85–98% of women, and for them it is one of the most intolerable aesthetic imperfections. In the past few years the interest of scientists in this problem has clearly increased. Several theories on the pathophysiology of cellulite have been produced A number of different therapeutic regimens have been developed using modern technology. However, despite the many treatment options for cellulite, it is extremely important that patients should be aware that only multidirectional treatment can bring satisfactory results. The aim of this review was to describe the causes of cellulite, and its prevention and treatment.
A Rare Intracerebral Collateral Circulation Pathway from the Contralateral Vertebral Artery to the Ipsilateral Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery-V4 Segment Steal
Authors: Liu Yang , Yang Bian , Wang Jianan , Zhang Xiongwei , Miao Yan , Wang Kunyu , Li Chunyan , Qiu Feng
Published: May 2020

Background: Interrupted blood flow during ischemia can be compensated through collateral circulation when a cerebral artery is severely stenotic or occluded. We suppose that potential collateral pathway may exist in patients with vertebral artery occlusive disease (VAOD) around V4 segment due to the ipsilateral posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) is sometimes patented after VAOD in the V4 segment.Methods: We retrospectively examined the medical database of 60 patients with VAOD admitted to the Department of Neurology from the Sixth medical center of the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University from June 2018 to November 2019. The pathways which supplied PICA were investigated by digital subtraction angiography (DSA).Results: 18 patients were proximal to the exit point of the PICA among all 60 patients with VAOD in V4 segment cases, and 7 individuals (11.7%) had the collateral circulation pathway via the contralateral vertebral artery (VA) ® vertebrobasilar junction ® ipsilateral VA ® ipsilateral PICA in the DSA.Conclusions: There is an underestimated intracerebral collateral circulation pathway when VAOD from the contralateral VA to the Ipsilateral PICA, we name this phenomenon "V4 segment steal."
Effects of Cognitive- and Sleep- Related Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms on Cognitive Functions in the Han Chinese Community-dwelling Elderly
Authors: Li Jing , Fu Jiangning , Zheng Zhiwei , Zhu Xinyi , Han Xiaoyan , Li Juan
Published: May 2020

Objective: The genetic biomarkers on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been widely studied in different groups. Since the lack of efficacy therapeutic methods for AD, early recognition in preclinical stage becomes increasingly important. Evidence of AD and cognitive-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in high risk population is insufficiency. Our aim was to assess whether these SNPs within cognitive- and sleep- associated genes are correlated with cognitive impairment independently or through gene-gene interactions in community-dwelling elderly in Beijing. Methods: Eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped in 2133 Northen Han Chinese elderly from ten communites in Chaoyang District, Beijing. The short version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Beijing (MoCA-s), Ascertain Dementia 8 (AD8), Digit Span Backwards (DSB), Digital Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and Paired Associative Learning Test (PALT) were used to detect different cognitive domains.Results: Logistic regression analyses showed a significant correlation between APOE (rs429358), ABCC9 (rs11046205) and cognitive impairment, and an interaction between ABCC9 (rs11046205)/APOE promoter (rs405509) and APOE ε4 status. Additionally, we found a significant negative association between the additive model of APOE (rs429358) and MMSE score. Moreover, our analysis revealed that the gene-gene interaction between ABCC9 (rs11046205) and APOE (429358) may contribute to the etiology of congnitive impairment.Conclusions: This study confirmed the independent contribution of AD, memory and sleep-related genes in the cognitive impairment of the community-dwelling elderly in China, as well as through gene-gene interactions.
Dimethylguanidino valeric acid is independently associated with intrahepatic triglyceride content in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and decreased after long-term exercise
Authors: Li Jia , Huang Yinxiang , Huang Caoxin , Zhao Yan , Shi Xiulin , Chen Zhen , Wang Liying , Han Lili , Chen Zhong , Li Xuejun
Published: May 2020

Backgrounds: Dimethylguanidino valeric acid (DMGV) is closely associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most recommended therapy of NAFLD is Exercise. Our aim was to investigate the correlation between DMGV concentrations and clinical characters in patients with NAFLD, and assessed the effect on DMGV concentrations changes after 6 month exercise training.Methods: NAFLD individuals (n = 220) were selected and randomly divided into control group (n = 74), moderate exercise group (n = 73) and vigorous exercise group (n = 73) with 6 month followed-up. Clinical characteristics were obtained from our previous clinical trial, serum DMGV levels were determined by a validated ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method.Results: On baseline, DMGV levels were positive associated with age, visceral fat and intrahepatic triglyceride (IHTG) content, and inversely associated with fasting blood glucose and diastolic blood pressure. In addition, the association between DMGV levels and IHTG content remained significant after adjusting other main clinical characters (β coefficient = 0.174, P = 0.018). After 6 month exercise training, IHTG was decreased by both exercise intensities without a significant difference (P = 0.45), however, moderate exercise was more efficient on DMGV decreasing than vigorous exercise (-9.96 to 2.27 ng/ml, P < 0.001 for moderate exercise; -4.53 to 4.56 ng/ml, P = 0.762 for vigorous exercise) with a significant difference (P = 0.047).Conclusions: DMGV was a potential indicator during development and progression of NAFLD, and moderate exercise was more efficient on metabolic changes than vigorous exercise with equal IHTG improvement, suggesting a priority of exercise intensity during NAFLD treatment.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01418027, August 16, 2011
A retrospective analysis of endocirnopathies in 136 Chinese patients with POEMS syndrome
Authors: Shao Yi , Zhang Chao , Xianling Wang , Guo Qinghua , Ba Jianming , Lv Zhaohui , Dou jingtao , Mu Yiming
Published: May 2020

Background: POEMS syndrome is a rare multisystem disease but with a wide spectrum of clinical endocrinopathies. The patients with POEMS syndromes may present with one or more hormone disorders during disease course, but such phenomenon has usually been underestimated. In this report, the prevalence and clinical characteristics of Endocrine abnormalities in a large Chinese cohort with POEMS syndromes were summarized. Methods: Retrospective review of patients with a definite diagnosis of POEMS syndrome in our hospital between January 2000 and January 2020 were performed. The clinical data about endocrine abnormalities were extracted from their medical records and analysis.Results: This study comprised 136 patients (95 male, 41 female) with a median age of 48(40-56) years old. The endocrine abnormalities were more common (127 cases, 93.38%) in patients with POEMS syndromes. The prevalence of single endocrinopathy and multiple endocrinopathies was 12.60% (16/127 cases) and 87.40% (111/127) respectively. The most frequent endocrinopathy was hypogonadism (98/136, 72.06%), followed by hypothyroidism (83/136, 61.03%), hypocalcemia (50/136, 36.76%), hyperprolactinemia (47/136, 34.56%),abnormal glucose metabolism (41/136, 30.15%) and adrenal insufficiency (41/136, 30.15%).In POEMS syndromes, nearly most of endocrine organs could be involved.In patients with multiple endocrinopathies, the percentage of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 kind of endocrine axes involved were 29.92%(38/127), 30.71%(39/127), 17.32%(22/127), 7.09%(9/127) and 2.36%(3/127), respectively. It results in complex clinical presentation of hormone disorders, including overt or sublinical situation.Conclusions: In Conclusion, this study provides an overview of the abnormalities observed in a large series in China. Endocrinopathy manifestations in POEMS syndromes are more frequent, and its clinical complicacy should be paid more attention to. To patients with definite diagnosis of POEMS syndromes, early and thorough endocrine evaluation should be performed.
Evolved adaptation to low ultraviolet radiation may be the main cause of malignant melanoma independent of high ultraviolet radiation exposure
Authors: You Wenpeng , Henneberg Renata Jolanta , Coventry Brendon , Henneberg Maciej
Published: May 2020

Objective:The low melanin production (depigmentation) evolved from low ultraviolet radiation may be the principal determinant of malignant melanoma of skin (C43).Design:Country-specific estimates of C43 incidence, daily UVR exposure, skin colour (EEL), socioeconomic status (GDP PPP), magnitude of reduced natural selection (Ibs), ageing, urbanization, percentage of European descendants (Eu%), and depigmentation measured by blonde hair colour, were subjected to statistical analyses. Data were derived from WHO, United Nations, World Bank databases and the literature.Setting:Ecological analysisParticipants:182 individual countries.Main outcome measures:Parametric and non-parametric correlations, partial correlation analyses keeping confounders statistically constant, multivariate regressions and analyses of variance.Results:Worldwide, UVR exposure was in negative correlation with C43 (“rho” = -0.515, p < 0.001). This relationship remained significant and negative in parametric partial correlation (r = -0.513, p < 0.001) when GDP PPP, Ibs, ageing and urbanization were statistically kept constant.In stepwise linear regression analysis, UVR was the variable having greatest negative influence on C43 incidence (R2=0.301).Worldwide, C43 incidence was in strong correlation with Eu% (r = 0.711, p<0.001). The inverse relationships between C43 and UVR exposure (r = -0.498, r<0.001) and Eu% (r = 0.477, p<0.001) remained significant in partial correlation analysis.When C43 incidence rate was standardized on Eu% it did not correlate at all with UVR (“rho”=0.004, p=0.967, n=127). The country-specific depigmentation level strongly correlated with C43 incidence (r = 0.705, p<0.001, n= 48). Partial correlation analysis revealed that C43 correlated to depigmentation significantly (r=0.315, p<0.01). However, UVR showed almost nil correlation with C43 when depigmentation, together with the other four potential confounders was included as the controlled variable.Conclusions:﻿C43 incidence may not be attributable to UVR exposure. Low melanin production, genetically determined, that has adaptively evolved over generations represents an ultimate risk factor for C43.
Genome-wide identification of poplar malectin/malectin-like domain-containing proteins and in-silico expression analyses find novel candidates for signaling and regulation of wood development
Authors: Kumar Vikash , Barbut Félix , Kushwah Sunita , Donev Evgeniy N. , Urbancsok János , Mellerowicz Ewa J.
Published: May 2020

Background: Malectin domain (MD) is a ligand-binding protein motif of pro- and eukaryotes. It is particularly abundant in Viridiplantae, where it occurs as either a single (MD, PF1721) or tandemly duplicated domain (PF12819) called malectin-like domain (MLD). In herbaceous plants, MD- or MLD-containing proteins (MD proteins) are known to regulate development, reproduction, and resistance to various stresses. However, their functions in woody plants have not yet been studied. To unravel their potential role in wood development, we carried out genome-wide identification of MD proteins in the model tree species black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa), and analyzed their in-silico expression and co-expression networks.Results: P. trichocarpa had 146 MD genes assigned to 14 different clades, two of which were specific to the genus Populus. 87% of these genes were located on chromosomes, the rest being associated with scaffolds. Based on their protein domain organization, and in agreement with the exon-intron structures, the MD genes identified could be classified into five superclades having the following domains: leucine-rich repeat (LRR)-MD-protein kinase (PK), MLD-LRR-PK, MLD-PK (CrRLK1L), MLD-LRR, and MD-Kinesin. Whereas the majority of MD genes were highly expressed in leaves, particularly under stress conditions, eighteen showed a peak of expression during secondary wall formation and their co-expression networks suggested signaling functions in cell wall integrity, pathogen-associated molecular patterns, calcium, ROS, and hormone pathways.Conclusion: P. trichocarpa MD genes exhibit a variety of domain organizations, and include genes apparently specific to Populus, as well as genes with potential involvement in signaling pathways regulating secondary wall formation.
COVID-19 Pneumonia Severity Grading: Test of A Trained Deep Learning Model
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wu Huawei , Song Haitao , Li Xiaoqian , Suo Shiteng , Yin Yan , Xu Jianrong
Published: May 2020

Purpose: To detect affected lung lobes and conduct severity grading of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia on chest CT images using an artificial intelligence (AI) technique.Materials and Methods: We used a deep learning model which was previously developed and trained to extract visual features from chest CT exams for the detection and severity grading of COVID-19 pneumonia. In this retrospective study, we tested this model with COVID-19 pneumonia cases in our institution. The numbers of affected lung lobes and severity grading values were compared for the AI method and manual method via the paired Chi-square test. The severity grading capability of the AI method was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis.Results: A total of 24 cases of confirmed COVID-19 were included (13 men and 11 women). The most frequent CT observation was bilateral ground-glass opacities with consolidation and more than one affected lung lobe. Most cases were mild cases. Compared with the manual method, the AI method presented excellent sensitivity (97.2%) and accuracy (80.8%) but poor specificity (57.1%) in detecting affected lung lobes and good ability (area under the curve=0.795, accuracy=91.6%) in severity grading of COVID-19. Additionally, the time consumed in checking the accuracy of the AI detected lesions within the whole lung was significantly shorter than that of severity assessment by the manual method (t=9.434, p<0.001).Conclusion: The AI method with our model is useful in evaluating the severity grading of COVID-19 pneumonia.
Clinical diversity of cerebral sinovenous thrombosis and arterial ischemic stroke in the neonate: a surveillance study.
Authors: Sorg Anna-Lisa , Klemme Mathias , Kries Rüdiger von , Felderhoff-Müser Ursula , Flemmer Andreas W. , Gerstl Lucia , Dzietko Mark
Published: May 2020

Background

Incidence, risk factors, clinical presentation, onset of symptoms and age at diagnosis differ between arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) and cerebral sinovenous thrombosis (CSVT) in the neonate. Distinguishing these two entities early and clinically can be of eminent importance.
Methods

Active surveillance for AIS and CSVT was performed in 345 German pediatric hospitals. Reported cases were validated with questionnaires. Only cases confirmed by cerebral MRI were included in our analysis. Both groups of patients (AIS and CSVT) were compared with regard to age at diagnose, pattern of clinical symptoms and risk factors.
Results

Data on 144 AIS and 51 CSVT neonatal cases were collected from 2015 to 2017. The relative risk of AIS was 2.8 [95% CI 2.1; 3.9] times higher compared to CSVT. CSVT patients were more likely to be born premature (CSVT 14/48, 29.2%; AIS 19/140, 13.2%; p = 0.02), to have signs of perinatal acidosis (e.g. umbilical artery pH ≤ 7.1 30.2% CSVT vs. 13.5% AIS p = 0.01). Generalized seizures and lethargy were more likely to occur in infants with CSVT (p < 0.0001). Age at onset of symptoms and at time of diagnoses was shifted to older ages in CSVT (p < 0.0001).
Conclusion

The risk for AIS is about three times higher than for CSVT in neonates. A higher proportion of critically ill infants in CSVT and a later onset of symptoms may indicate that perinatal and postnatal risk factors are more important for CSVT than for AIS. The data point to the need for awareness of CSVT in critical ill infants.
Selection and impact of leading edge on boundary layer transition
Authors: Bhatia Dinesh Devraj , Yang Guangjun , Li Guangning , Wang Jian
Published: May 2020

The choice of leading edge aspect ratio (AR) plays a crucial role when planning boundary layer experimental wind tunnel tests on a flat plate. Poor selection of the leading-edge profile hampers the effectiveness of the experiment and increases testing costs associated with interchanging of leading edges to attain accurate results. Thus, the appropriate selection of the leading edge is a very crucial part of the wind tunnel experimental process. The authors, in this paper, argue that the curvature of the leading edge and thus the AR are of paramount importance to attain accurate results from wind tunnel testing. In this paper, the authors have tested 7 different elliptical leading edges and compared their performance with an ideal leading edge with zero thickness. Experimental and computational has been presented for leading edges ranging from AR6 to AR20. Results were evaluated for boundary layer transition onset location and it was found that AR20 has the least influence on the flow structure when compared the ideal leading edge. A study of the flow structure at the stagnation point indicates an increase in adverse pressure gradient with an increase in the AR but also a decrease in the size of the stagnation region. The presence of a higher AR leading edge reduces the turbulent spot production rate which is one of the primary causes of boundary layer transition. The authors have presented a correlation which makes it easier for aerodynamicists to quantify the impact of the leading-edge AR on transition. A case is also presented to compare the relative performance of a wedge and the higher AR leading edge which gives potential researchers the choice between an elliptical or a wedge-shaped leading edge.
CDK12 inhibition enhances sensitivity of HER2+ breast cancers to HER2-TKI via suppressing PI3K/AKT
Authors: Li Hui , Wang Jinsong , Yi Zongbi , Li Chunxiao , Wang Haijuan , Zhang Jingyao , Wang Ting , Nan Peng , Lin Feng , Xu Dongkui , Zhan Qimin , Qian Haili , Ma Fei
Published: May 2020

Background : While anti-HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have radically prolonged survival and improved prognosis in HER2-positive breast cancer patients, resistance to these therapies is a constant obstacle leading to TKIs treatment failure and tumor progression.Methods : To develop new strategies to enhance TKIs efficiency by combining synergistic gene targets, we performed panel library screening using CRISPR/Cas9 knockout technique based on data mining across TCGA datasets and verified the candidate target in pre-clinical models and breast cancer high-throughput sequencing datasets.Results : We identified that CDK12, co-amplified with HER2 in a high frequency, is powerful to sensitize or re-sensitize HER2-positive breast cancer to anti-HER2 TKIs lapatinib, evidenced by patient-derived organoids (PDO) in vitro and cell-derived xenograft (CDX) or patient-derived xenograft (PDX) in vivo. Exploring mechanisms, we found that inhibition of CDK12 attenuated PI3K/AKT signal, which usually serves as an oncogenic driver and is reactivated when HER2-positive breast cancers develop resistance to lapatinib. Combining CDK12 inhibition exerted additional suppression on p-AKT activation induced by anti-HER2 TKIs lapatinib treatment. Clinically, via DNA sequencing data for tumor tissue and peripheral blood ctDNA, we found that HER2-positive breast cancer patients with CDK12 amplification responded more insensitively to anti-HER2 treatment than those without accompanying CDK12 amplification by harboring a markedly shortened progression free survival (PFS) (median PFS: 4.3 months verse 6.9 months; HR 2.26 [95% CI 1.32-3.86]; P=0.0028).Conclusions : Dual inhibition of HER2/CDK12 will prominently benefit the outcomes of HER2-positive breast cancer patients by sensitizing or re-sensitizing the tumors to anti-HER2 TKIs treatment.
Investigating occupational stress of disaster and emergency medical management center 115 and the role of demographic variables
Authors: lebni Javad Yoosefi , Gheshlaghi Parvin Abdi , Toghroli Razie , Garosi Vahid Hatami , Abbas Jaffar , Kalhori Reza Pourmirza , Salahshoor Mohammad Reza , Kianipour Neda , Tharwani Munira , ziapour arash
Published: May 2020

Background: The first and one of the most important chains of providing care to patients is prehospital emergency medical services. The critical crisis put the Personnel employed in this sector at risk due to occupational stress confronted during on- job and at service. This can adversely affect the health of the personnel and the quality of services, which are being provided to patients. Therefore, the present study has been conducted to investigate the occupational stress of the personnel confronting disaster and emergency medical management center 115 along with the role of demographic variables in 2019.Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study. 200 medical emergency personnel of Kermanshah province were selected through stratified sampling and according to inclusion criteria. A two-part questionnaire including demographic information and HSE standard questionnaire were used for collecting data. Finally, descriptive and inferential statistics (t-test and one-way ANOVA) were used for data analysis. Significance level was considered P<0.05. Results: The mean score of total occupational stress was 3.41±0.26. The highest and the lowest stress levels related to the role dimensions was calculated (4.34±0.35) and changes (2.72±0.86). It was evident through findings that there was a significant relationship between stress level with age, marital status, educational level, type of base of work place and hours of work per month, while there was no significant relationship between type of employment and work experience with stress level. Conclusion: Emergency medical personnel experience a high level of occupational stress in terms of handing of patients. Senior managers can apply the results for conducting similar studies, Moreover, this study can be useful to devise measures to reduce the experience of employees' stress.
Mental health among COVID-19 survivors and healthcare workers exposed to COVID-19 in Wuhan, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Bin , Wang Yan , Yang Ting , Li Cheng , Sun Zhiling
Published: May 2020

Then novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic was considered to be the worst and complex virus outbreak, which caused 56,985 deaths as of April 22, 2020 already. The epidemic infectious may cause mental health crisis. Meanwhile, little is known about the specific psychological status of the COVID-19 survivors and healthcare workers. This cross-sectional study surveyed the mental health among 20 COVID-19 survivors, 54 nurses, and 24 hygienists in Wuhan, China and analyze the possible impact factors using the Symptom Check List 90 - Revised (SCL90-R) questionnaire. 3 indices and 9 dimensions were compared among job, education level, gender, age, marriage classification. This study found that mental distress among participants was not very serious in general. The survivors presented a highest score, then the hygienists, and the lowest in nurses. Low-educated and women showed significant increase. No significant difference was noted in age and marriage classification. Our study indicated that the survivors need psychological support immediately. Meanwhile, healthcare workers warrant more attention, especially low-educated and women. Comprehensive emergency response plan was warranted.
FTO demethylates m6A modifications in HOXB13 mRNA and promotes endometrial cancer metastasis by activating the WNT signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wan Yicong , Zhang Zihan , Jiang Yi , Lang Jinghe , Cheng Wenjun , Zhu Lan
Published: May 2020

Background Abnormal FTO expression causes faulty m6A modifications in mRNA and affects tumor progression. However, the expression and function of FTO in endometrial cancer (EC) and the genes regulated by FTO remain unclear.Methods qPCR detected the FTO expression level in EC tissues, and IHC staining determined the FTO protein expression in tissue arrays. FTO was stably overexpressed or knocked down in EC cell lines by lentiviruses. The biological roles of FTO in cancer cell metastasis and invasion were evaluated by wound-healing, Transwell assays and mouse intra-abdominal implantation models. mRNA-seq, RIP-seq, and MeRIP-seq were combined to comprehensively map the genes regulated by FTO. RNA pull-down, dual-luciferase reporter and RNA stability experiments confirmed that YTHDF2 regulates the metabolism of HOXB13 mRNA via m6A. Western blot analysis confirmed that HOXB13 regulates EC cell metastasis and invasion through the WNT signaling pathway.Results FTO is more highly expressed in metastatic EC and can promote tumor metastasis and invasion in vivo and in vitro. By removing the m6A modification in the 3'UTR region of HOXB13, FTO abolishes m6A recognition by YTHDF2 and promotes the stability of HOXB13 mRNA and protein expression. High HOXB13 expression activates the WNT signaling pathway, promotes c-myc, snail, MMP2, MMP7, and MMP9 expression, and inhibits E-cadherin expression, leading to tumor metastasis and invasion.Conclusions FTO promotes HOXB13 expression through m6A, activates the WNT signaling pathway, and promotes EC invasion and metastasis. FTO is a new potential target for the treatment of tumor metastasis.
Trans-Sphenoidal Surgery in Prolactin Secreting Pituitary Tumors: A Long-Term Referral Center Experience.
Authors: Mattogno Pier Paolo , D’alessandris Quintino Giorgio , Chiloiro Sabrina , Bianchi Antonio , Giampietro Antonella , Marinis Laura De , Olivi Alessandro , Anile Carmelo , Lauretti Liverana
Published: May 2020

Backgrounds: Prolactin secreting pituitary tumors (PRL-omas) represent a unique challenge for endocrinologists and neurosurgeons. Considering recent innovations in surgical, we aimed to investigate the best management for PRL-omas. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional and monocentric study was designed. Consecutive patients affected for PRL-omas were enrolled if treated with first line treatment with dopamine-agonist (DA) or trans-sphenoidal surgery (TSS). Patients carried giant PRL-omas and those with a follow-up < 12 months were excluded. Results: 259 patients were enrolled. The first treatment was DA for 140 patients and TSS for 119 cases. 146 of 249 patients (58.6%) needed a second therapy. Mean follow up was 102.2 months (12-438 months). Surgery highly impacted on the cure rate, in particular in females (p=0.0021) and in micro- PRL-omas (p=0.0020). Considering multivariate analysis, female gender and surgical treatment in the course of clinical history were the only independent positive predictors of cure at the end of 5 years follow-up (p=0.0016, p=0.0005). The evaluation of serum prolactin (24 hours after TSS) revealed that 86.4% of patients with post-operative PRL≤10 ng/ml resulted cured at the end of follow-up (p< 0.0001). Conclusion: According to our experience, surgery allows a higher cure rate of PRL-omas, in particular in females with micro-PRL-omas, with a good safety profile. TSS for PRL-oma should be considered as first line therapy, in the management of patients, during the multidisciplinary evaluation, in center of reference for pituitary diseases, in order guarantee a valid surgical outcome and a safety profile.
LncRNA KCNQ1OT1 is a Key Factor in the Reversal Effect of Curcumin on Cisplatin Resistance in the Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Zheng Zhi-hai , You He-yi , Feng Yu-jie , Zhang Zhong-tao
Published: May 2020

Context: The development of cisplatin resistance is a common cause of cancer recurrence in colorectal cancer (CRC). Long non-coding RNA KCNQ1OT1 has been proven to exert its oncogenic function in multiple cancers. Curcumin is a natural phenolic that could effectively suppress cisplatin resistance in CRC.Objective: To expound the role of KCNQ1OT1 in cisplatin resistance in CRC cells and whether KCNQ1OT1 participates in the reversal effect of curcumin on cisplatin resistance in CRC. Methods: Cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry assay, respectively. The interplay between KCNQ1OT1 and miR-497 was determined using RNA pull-down assay and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The combination of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and miR-497 was confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Results: Compared with CRC cell line HCT8, the cisplatin-resistant CRC cell line HCT8/DDP exhibited a higher KCNQ1OT1 expression. Functionally, the silence of KCNQ1OT1 suppressed proliferation and promoted apoptosis in HCT8/DDP cells. KCNQ1OT1 could act as a sponge of miR-497 and removed the suppressive effect of miR-497 on Bcl-2 expression. Curcumin treatment suppressed proliferation and promote apoptosis in HCT8/DDP cells. While KCNQ1OT1 overexpression removed the effect of curcumin on HCT8/DDP cells via miR-497/ Bcl-2 axis. Finally, the in vivo experiments confirmed that the ectopic expression of KCNQ1OT1 reversed the suppressive effect of curcumin on the growth of cisplatin-resistant CRC cells.Conclusion: KCNQ1OT1 promoted cisplatin resistance in CRC cells via the miR-497/Bcl-2 axis. Administration of curcumin could effectively down-regulate KCNQ1OT1 expression, thus reversing cisplatin resistance in CRC cells.
Modeling and Simulation to Improve the Efficiency of Transportation Systems: A Tool for Decision Support
Authors: Suryani Erma , Hendrawan Rully Agus , Adipraja Philip Faster Eka , Indraswari Rarasmaya , Ahyudanari Ervina , Jauhari Achmad , Prambayanto Prasetyo
Published: May 2020

This paper addresses problem solving and complex decision making in the management of transportation operations under environmental dynamics through the use of models and scenarios. A system dynamics simulation was used to model and analyze the efficiency of transportation systems as a tool for decision support to improve efficiency. Transportation systems are complex because they involve a number of different stakeholders, resulting in feedback with different time lags between the responses of all entities. Data and information were collected from the Transportation Department of Surabaya city. Several scenarios to improve the efficiency of transportation systems were developed by modifying the structure and parameters of the model. Several factors influence the efficiency of transportation system: traffic network, conventional roadway, accessibility based transport planning, multi modal transport, planning efficiency, and resources efficient modes (economic category). By implementing a number of strategies (such as the improvement of planning efficiency; multimodal transport development; route-based performance improvement), transportation system efficiency in Surabaya was predicted to be improved from 56% in 2019 to 66% in 2040. The novel contributions of this research are: formulating relationships among several variables, modeling dynamic behavior of transportation system efficiency, and building scenario models to improve transportation operation efficiency. This research contributes to the literature by investigating these relationships through the use of models and experimental scenarios.
Transmission Dynamics of COVID-19 in Bangladesh- A Compartmental Modeling Approach 
Authors: Muka Abul Mukid Md. , Sannyal Mridul
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was first identiﬁed in Bangldesh, on March 8, 2020. As of May 15, there are 20065 confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 3882 patients who have recovered and 298 related deaths. The objective of this study is to examine the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 and predict the growth of the infection in Bangladesh using the publicly available data though a mathematical model. The suscected-exposed-infectious-recoverd-dead (SEIRD) model is employed to describe the dynamics based on the kinematic parameters fitted on the data for the outbreak in Bangladesh up to May 15. The expression of basic reproduction number using the next generating matrix is derived and estimated. The kinematic parameters that describe transmission rate (0.045), recovery rate (0.03) and death rate (0.01) seems to be lower, respective of other countries. Based on the official counts for confirmed cases, the simulations suggest that the cumulative number of active infected follows an exponential trend. The mean reproduction number 2.25 (95% CI: 1.90-2.40) and transmission trends clearly indicates the outbreak of COVID-19 in Bangladesh. There is now breakneck concern regarding the capacity to respond to needs of infected patients effectively and to prevent this pandemic from further spreading in Bangladesh, one of the densest countries in the world.
Identification of phytochemical inhibitors against main protease of COVID-19 using molecular modeling approaches
Authors: Kumar Anuj , Choudhir Gourav , Shukla Sanjeev Kumar , Sharma Mansi , Tyagi Pankaj , Bhushan Arvind , Rathore Madhu
Published: May 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel corona virus that causes corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The COVID-19 rapidly spread across the nations with high mortality rate even as very little is known to contain the virus at present. In the current study, we report novel natural metabolites namely, ursolic acid, carvacrol and oleanolic acid as the potential inhibitors against main protease (Mpro) of COVID-19 by using integrated molecular modeling approaches. From a combination of molecular docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations, we found three ligands bound to protease during 50 ns of MD simulations. Furthermore, the molecular mechanic/generalized/Born/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/G/P/BSA) free energy calculations showed that these chemical molecules have stable and favourable energies causing strong binding with binding site of Mpro protein. All these three molecules, namely, ursolic acid, carvacrol and oleanolic acid, have passed the ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) property as well as Lipinski’s rule of five. The study provides a basic foundation and suggests that the three phytochemicals, viz. ursolic acid, carvacrol and oleanolic acid could serve as potential inhibitors in regulating the Mpro protein's function and controlling viral replication.
Organic and Other Management Strategies with Two‐ and Four‐Year Crop Rotations in Minnesota
Authors: Porter Paul M. , Huggins Dave R. , Perillo Catherine A. , Quiring Steven R. , Crookston R. Kent
Published: May 2020

In the USA, the corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation depends on high levels of external inputs. Few research data exist comparing conventional production practices with practices involving reduced external inputs and expanded rotations. Two trials initiated in 1989 near Lamberton, MN, evaluated a 2‐yr corn–soybean rotation and a 4‐yr corn–soybean–oat (Avena sativa L.)/alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)–alfalfa rotation under four management strategies. The four management strategies were zero (ZI), low (LI), high (HI), and organic (OI) inputs. One trial (V1) was on land with a history of no fertilizer and pesticide usage. The other trial (V2) was on land with a history of conventional fertilizer and pesticide usage. From 1993 through 1999, average corn yield in the 2‐yr HI strategy was 8.96 Mg ha−1 in V1 and 8.72 Mg ha−1 in V2. Corn yield in the 4‐yr HI strategy was 4% less than in the 2‐yr HI strategy in V1, whereas in V2, the yields were not different. Soybean yield in the 2‐yr HI strategy was 2.90 Mg ha−1 in V1 and 2.74 Mg ha−1 in V2. Soybean yield in the 4‐yr compared with the 2‐yr HI strategy was 3% greater in V1 and 6% greater in V2. These results suggest soybean was more responsive than corn to the expanded rotation length in the HI strategy. Corn yield in the 4‐yr OI strategy compared with the 2‐yr HI strategy was 9% less in V1 and 7% less in V2 while soybean yield in the 4‐yr OI strategy compared with the 2‐yr HI strategy was 19% less in V1 and 16% less in V2. These results suggest that yield of organically produced soybean was reduced to a greater extent than that of organically produced corn relative to conventional production practices. By comparing yields of the 2‐ and 4‐yr rotations for each management strategy, this research documents the beneficial yield effects of the expanded crop rotation, which can be masked by external inputs in the LI and HI treatments.
Site‐Specific Management Zones Based on Soil Electrical Conductivity in a Semiarid Cropping System
Authors: Johnson Cinthia K. , Mortensen David A. , Wienhold Brian J. , Shanahan John F. , Doran John W.
Published: May 2020

Site‐specific management (SSM) can potentially improve both economic and ecological outcomes in agriculture. Effective SSM requires strong and temporally consistent relationships among identified management zones; underlying soil physical, chemical, and biological parameters; and crop yields. In the central Great Plains, a 250‐ha dryland experiment was mapped for apparent electrical conductivity (ECa). Eight fields were individually partitioned into four management zones based on equal ranges of deep (ECDP) and shallow (ECSH) ECa (approximately 0–30 and 0–90 cm depths, respectively). Previous experiments documented negative correlations between ECSH and soil properties indicative of productivity. The objectives of this study were to examine ECSH and ECDP relationships with 2 yr of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and corn (Zea mays L.) yields and to consider the potential applications of ECa–based management zones for SSM in a semiarid cropping system. Within‐zone wheat yield means were negatively correlated with ECSH (r = −0.97 to −0.99) and positively correlated with ECDP (r = 0.79–0.97). Within‐zone corn yield means showed no consistent relationship with ECSH but positive correlation with ECDP (r = 0.81–0.97). Equal‐range and unsupervised classification methods were compared for ECSH; within‐zone yield variances declined slightly (0–5%) with the unsupervised approach. Yield response curves relating maximum wheat yields and ECSH revealed a boundary line of maximum yield that decreased with increasing ECSH. In this semiarid system, ECSH–based management zones can be used in SSM of wheat for: (i) soil sampling to assess residual nutrients and soil attributes affecting herbicide efficacy, (ii) yield goal determination, and (iii) prescription maps for metering inputs.
Carbon‐13 Discrimination Can be Used to Evaluate Soybean Yield Variability
Authors: Clay D. E. , Clay S. A. , Jackson J. , Dalsted K. , Reese C. , Liu Z. , Malo D. D. , Carlson C. G.
Published: May 2020

Diagnostic tools for assessing the cause of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield variability in whole fields are needed. The objective of this study was to determine if 13C discrimination (Δ) can be used to assess the factors responsible for soybean yield variability. Research was conducted in five eastern South Dakota fields between 1999 and 2001. Yields in the summit–shoulder areas of Brookings, Moody, South Dakota State University (SDSU), and Lovjoy were 20 to 60% less than the rest of the field. Adding water to plants growing in the summit–shoulder areas in Moody and SDSU increased yield and Δ. However, in the foot‐slope position, adding water did not impact yield or Δ. Based on the spatial relationships among protein content, yields, chlorophyll meter readings, and Δ at Moody and SDSU, (i) the reduced yields in the summit–shoulder areas most likely resulted from reduced plant vigor resulting from water stress; (ii) lower protein concentrations in summit–shoulder areas in Moody had a limited impact on Δ; and (iii) interactions among water availability, protein content, and yield can occur. In a combined analysis in the four fields where grain samples were collected at harvest (Moody, SDSU, Lovjoy, and TE80), Δ explained 62% of the total yield variability. Results from this experiment suggest that Δ can be used to help assess water stress, provided that N stress is absent. By understanding the causes of yield variability, producers will be able to make better management decisions.
A CIÊNCIA JURÍDICA E O TEMPO: PERSPECTIVAS DA MUTAÇÃO DOS CONCEITOS ESTRUTURAIS DO ORDENAMENTO JURÍDICO JUNTO AO CORRER DAS ÉPOCAS
Authors: Wailler Arcio Milton , Cavedon Ricardo
Published: May 2020

O presente trabalho possui o condão de analisar a influência do tempo na construção da significação normativa, com a mutação dos conceitos estruturais do direito no decorrer das épocas, notadamente diante a atividade jurisprudencial e do tão propalado ativismo judicial. As alterações na significação normativa redundam na mutação constitucional e em novas definições para o fenômeno normativo de acordo com as novas exigências do tecido social. Nesse exercício, cabe analisar as consequências de quando se extrapola os limites impostos pela concepção normativa trazidos pelo conceito de bloco de constitucionalidade, resultando no ativismo judicial, buscando entender os limites dessa atividade quando em voga a percepção de uma interpretação sistemática e evolutiva da norma jurídica. Dessa forma será perenemente estudado o conceito, os limites e as modalidades de alterações formais e informais da significação normativa, notadamente o aspecto mais controverso da mutação constitucional, para somente ao final, ainda com conclusões apenas parciais, buscar correlacionar com exemplos práticos de ativismo judicial pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal e uma possível ruptura com a noção atual de sistema jurídico aberto e circunscrito pelo conceito de bloco de constitucionalidade em sentido amplo.