bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis on Failure Reasons of Quit Smoking Among Smokers in Beijing Communities----based on a cross sectional study
Authors: Jin Qianying , Li Xingming , Liu Han , Ma Hanqiao , Qiao Kun , Akbar Ali
Published: September 2020

Objective To understand the reasons for failure of smoking cessation among community smokers in Beijing, and analyze the influencing factors of the reasons for failure to quit, in order to provide a reference for providing smoking cessation guidance services. Method Based on a cross-sectional study, a one-to-one questionnaire was used. The survey included basic demographic information, tobacco use, and past attempts to quit. And descriptive analysis was used to analyze the distribution of the reasons for the failure of smoking cessation. c2 test or Fisher's exact probability method were used to analyze the causes of smoking cessation failure, demographic indicators, tobacco use and other factors. Correspondence analysis was used to further explore the relationship between each factor and the reasons for smoking cessation failure. Result A total of 442 smokers who had tried to quit smoking were investigated. The top three reasons for failure to quit were difficulty in controlling addiction, insufficient self-willingness (54.3%), the effects of other smokers(35.3%), and lack of smoke-free support environment(26.0%). There were statistically significant differences in the distribution of the reasons for failure of smoking cessation among different ages, occupations, and discomforts during smoking cessation(All P<0.05). Correspondence analysis results show that the reasons for failure of smoking cessation among smokers aged 19-30 are mainly work or study stress. There are differences in the reasons why smokers in different occupations fail to quit smoking; The influence of other smokers and the lack of a smoke-free support environment are closely related to the desire to quit during the process of quitting. Conclusion Work or study pressure, the influence of other smokers and the lack of smoke-free support environment are the main reasons for the failure of smoking cessation attempts. Therefore, it is suggested to strengthen education in different occupational places and implement personalized smoking cessation education. It is recommended to provide tips on coping with smoking cessation and alleviating peer pressure in social situations, as well as help for stress coping and negative emotion relief in smoking cessation guidance. At the same time, it is essential to strengthen the shaping of a smoke-free support environment.
C-Reactive Protein Concentration as A Risk Predictor of Mortality in Intensive Care Unit: A Multicenter, Prospective, Observational Study
Authors: Qu Rong , Hu Linhui , Ling Yun , Fang Heng , Zhang Huidan , Liang Silin , He Zhimei , Fang Miaoxian , Li Jiaxin , Li Xu , Chen Chunbo
Published: September 2020

Background: It is not clear whether there is value inflammatory markers for prognosis judgment in the intensive care unit (ICU). We therefore conducted a multicenter, prospective, observational study to evaluate the prognostic role of inflammatory markers.Methods: The clinical and laboratory data of patients at admission, including C-reactive protein (CRP), were collected in four general ICUs from September 1, 2018, to August 1, 2019. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with nonsurvival. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used to evaluate the effect size of different factors in predicting mortality during ICU stay. 3 knots was used to assess whether alternative cut points for these biomarkers were more appropriate. Results: A total of 813 patients were recruited, among whom 121 patients (14.88%) died during the ICU stay. The AUC-ROC values of PCT and CRP for discriminating ICU mortality were 0.696 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.650-0.743) and 0.684 (95% CI, 0.633-0.735), respectively. In the multivariable analysis, only APACHE II score (odds ratio, 1.166; 95% CI, 1.129-1.203; P=0.000) and CRP concentration > 62.8 mg/L (odds ratio, 2.145; 95% CI, 1.343-3.427; P=0.001), were significantly associated with an increased risk of ICU mortality. Moreover, the combination of APACHE II score and CRP > 62.8 mg/L significantly improved risk reclassification over the APACHE II score alone, with NRI (0.556) and IDI (0.013). Restricted cubic spline analysis confirmed that CRP concentration >62.8 mg/L was the optimal cut-off value for differentiating between surviving and nonsurviving patients.Conclusion: CRP markedly improved risk reclassification for prognosis prediction.
Effect of Integrated Community Case Management on Access and Utilization of Maternal, Newborn and Child Health and Immunization Services in Hard-to-Reach Communities in Migori County, Kenya: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Shikuku Duncan N. , Masavah Leakey K. , Muganda Maxwell , Otieno Felix , Magolo George , Njoki Lilian , Odhong Tom , Sisimwo Kenneth , Matete Thomas , Orero Solomon , Kisia Paul
Published: September 2020

Background Integrated community case management (iCCM) improves access to management of leading causes of under 5 (U5) mortality. Evidence of iCCM on maternal and newborn health and immunization services is scanty. The objective of this study was to determine the additional effect of iCCM on antenatal, skilled birth attendance (SBA) and immunization coverage in hard-to-reach communities.Methods A quasi-experimental (nonequivalent control group pretest – posttest) design for iCCM in Migori county. The intervention was iCCM training, mentorship/coaching and supportive supervision of 20 community health volunteers (CHVs). Twelve months pre-post intervention Kenya Health Information System (KHIS) data between July 2017-Sept 2019 reviewed. Differences in proportions for MNCH indicators pre – post-training were tested through test of proportions and considered statistically significant at P≤0.05 values.ResultsPost-training, average monthly community cases identification increased from 1.3-5, 0-1.5, 8.9-11.8 for suspected pneumonia, malnutrition and malaria positive cases treated in the intervention sites respectively. Intervention communities reported significant increases in proportions of malaria positive cases treated (32.0% vs 47.8%), pregnant women referred for ANC (25.4% vs 45.8%), defaulters referred for ANC (9.8% vs 14.9%), newborns with danger signs referred (1.4% vs 7.3%), U5s referred for immunization (4% vs 7.5%) and defaulters referred for immunization (2.2% vs 3%) (P≤0.05). Control communities reported significant reductions in proportion of malaria positive cases treated (57.6% vs 41.6%) and U5s referred for immunization (10% vs 5%) (P<0.0001) with no changes in MNH indicators (P≥0.05). Intervention facilities reported significant increases in 4th ANC coverage (39.4% vs 79.3%), SBA (24.5% vs 43%) and immunization coverage for U5s in all key expanded program on immunization antigens (P≤0.05) with no change in the control facilities.Conclusion iCCM improved access and utilization of ANC, SBA and immunization coverage in the hard-to-reach communities. Community level management of childhood illnesses using simple algorithms by CHVs as well as identification and referral of antenatal mothers for ANC, immunization defaulters, and newborns with danger signs for hospital management improved. Governments should strengthen community health systems so that CHVs are motivated and retained to carry out demand creation for maternal, newborn and child health and immunization services in hard-to-reach communities.
Assessments on Sustainability Potential by Upgrade of Existing Heritage Buildings: a case study of Liyuan Courtyard in Qingdao, China
Authors: Huang Yi , Xiao Yufan , Yu Fan
Published: September 2020

Background: The existing heritage buildings are considered as symbols of the original spirit of a city, which also contains vitality and resilience through centuries. In Qingdao, the Liyuan courtyard styles are still existed as a very regional and representative colonial residential architecture form in the urban development history from 1900s in this city. Method: The research here made the hypotheses of the heritage buildings can regain its authentic appearance while achieve energy efficiency in building performance through optimization and renovation strategies. The sustainability potentials assessment is discussed and evaluated with field investigation in a Liyuan building case study by on-site observation and building performance simulation analysis of two renovation options.Result and Discussion: One model with façade supplemented in the insulation layers in the envelope walls and another model with further upgrade with consideration of recycling materials mixed were discussed and estimated with building performance simulation method. Both scenarios improved the energy efficiency, while the advanced model could achieve better result in the building energy behavior dramatically.Conclusion: This research paper verified the hypotheses of sustainability embodied in Liyuan buildings. It also confirmed the vitality and resilience could be regained through history with considerable and reasonable guideline in strategy together with personal alternatives. Technologies innovation helps to improve their energy performance by reducing consumption or self-supplying on the existing buildings renovation actions. Every specific choices of renovation action could achieve low energy goals and impose optional positive effects on the behavior of the living comfort preference. Multicriteria considerations might influence the balanced between different factors when making decisions in the heritage building restoration and it is expected to empower the fresh glory in the development of heritage building protection and restoration.
Incidence of Medical Malpractice Lawsuits and Its Relationship to the Growth of Private Hospitals
Authors: Sun Yu , Liu Gordon G. , Wang Mengxiao , Liu Sijia
Published: September 2020

BackgroundDoctor-patient relationship has become an intense concern in public health in recent years. Medical malpractice lawsuits have presented an increasing trend over past decade. This study aims to describe distributions of medical malpractice lawsuits across different provinces and to investigate its relationship to the growth of private hospitals.MethodsData was drawn from China Judgments Online, the China Health Statistic Yearbooks and China Statistical Yearbooks between January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2016. Private hospitals expansion was measured by the number and proportion of private hospitals, the ratio of outpatient visits from private to public hospitals and the ratio of discharges from private to public hospitals. Fixed-effects negative binomial regressions were utilized to estimate the association between the growth of private hospitals and the number of medical malpractice lawsuits.ResultsIn total, we identified a total of 18220 lawsuits relevant to medical malpractices across China between 2010 and 2016. The regression results revealed that more private hospitals, larger proportion of private hospitals and higher ratio of discharges from private to public hospitals were significantly associated with fewer medical malpractice lawsuits. An increase of 100 private hospitals in health care market was associated with a decrease in the number of medical malpractice lawsuits by 21%. The ratio of outpatient visits from private to public hospitals was not significantly associated with the number of malpractice lawsuits. ConclusionsThere was great disparities of incidences of medical malpractice lawsuits across different provinces. Greater expansion of private hospitals was associated with fewer medical malpractice lawsuits at province level. This negative association indicated that more private hospitals in health care market might provide more incentives for hospitals to contain the incidences of medical malpractice cases.
Newly Mothers' Mental Health and Breastfeeding Rates During 2019 Coronavirus Disease Outbreak
Authors: Morniroli Daniela , Consales Alessandra , Colombo Lorenzo , Bezze Elena Nicoletta , Zanotta Lidia , Plevani Laura , Fumagalli Monica , Mosca Fabio , Giannì Maria Lorella
Published: September 2020

BackgroundNewly mothers are at higher risk of experiencing higher levels of anxiety and stress, especially during a pandemic event. Mothers’ mental health can negatively impact breastfeeding rates and the dyad’s overall health. Aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of anxiety symptoms in newly mothers throughout hospital stay during the COVID-19 pandemic and its association with perceived postpartum support and breastfeeding outcomes at discharge.MethodsA cross-sectional survey study was conducted in a neonatal tertiary referral center, in northern Italy between April and May 2020 during Italy’s lockdown, including a sample of 117 mothers with a negative naso-pharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2.Maternal anxiety levels were assessed through State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Form Y, with TRAIT-A and STATE-A scores indicating personality trait and current emotional state, respectively. Maternal perception of staff’s support was evaluated by the Nurse Parent Support Tool (NPST). Breastfeeding rates at discharge and sociodemographic information were also collected. A STATE-A score >=40 was considered indicative of clinically significant symptoms of anxiety. Binary logistic regression models were used to examine correlations between anxiety levels and variables of interest.ResultsA total of 109 mothers completed the study. Mean STATE-A score was >=40 in 42% of mothers and median NPST score was 4.23. A TRAIT-A score>=40, a NPST score <=4.23, father’s absence during hospital stay and primiparity were independently associated with a STATE-A score >=40 (OR 3.45 (95%CI 1.27; 9.35), 4.72 (1.91; 11.64), 2.73 (1.06; 7.07), 3.74 (1.35; 10.37), respectively). Exclusive breastfeeding rates at discharge were 80% and were not affected by neither mothers’ anxiety level nor changes in hospital policies.Conclusions Our study describes the short-term effects on newly-mothers of hospital policies and preventive measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the positive impact of fathers’ presence and high perceived support during hospital stay on maternal mental health, particularly primiparas’. Breastfeeding rates at discharge were not affected by the pandemic.
Characterization of Liquid-liquid phase Separation in 3D Genome Organization
Authors: Li Tingting , Xing Jiaqing , Li Tao , Li Teng , Li Weihua
Published: September 2020

Many proteins have been demonstrated to participate in 3D genome organization through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) such as RNPII, HP1a. However, systematic investigation of relationships between LLPS and 3D genome organization remains lacking. Here, we predicted the intrinsic disordered regions (IDRs) and modular domains of all human proteins and performed GSEA analysis according to their proportions of IDRs. Our results showed that main biological processes involved in 3D genome organization are highly enriched with IDRs, including chromatin organization, RNA splicing and histone modification, demonstrating the key role of LLPS in regulating nuclear structure. Of the 3885 IDR-rich proteins, 1427 proteins are involved in 3D genome organization. IDR regions of these proteins have strong preference of Ser, Leu, Pro, Ala, Gly, Glu and Lys, and lack of hydrophobic amino acids such as Trp, Tyr, Phe and Met, suggesting dipolar interactions rather than aromatic-involved interactions involved. Further motif enrichment analysis suggests that RNA recognition motif and zinc finger motif are the two most abundant repeatedly-occurred modular domains within IDR-containing proteins. Finally, we developed a Shiny APP named phasepro that interactively analyze and visualize a protein’s potential of LLPS, including IDRs, motifs, amino acid preferences and electric charges.
The Effect of Cognitive- Behavioral Counseling on the Sexual Compatibility of New Married Couples: A Clinical Trial Study 
Authors: Allahyari Parvin , Kolivand Mitra , Namdari Arash , Rahmani Khaled
Published: September 2020

Objective: sexual desire is an integral part of an identity and character of a human being, that affect how to behave with spouse. This study aimed to study the effect of cognitive-behavioral counseling (CBT) on sexual compatibility of new married couples in Sanandaj City in 2018. Method: This was a randomized clinical trial study and participants were 80 new married couples whose information was recorded at the premarital counseling centers that were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. Intervention group received 8 weekly 120-minute sessions of group consultation with cognitive-behavioral approach. Data were collected before the intervention, after 8 weeks of counseling, and two months after the last counseling session using the National Sexual Compatibility Scale. Data were analyzed using chi-square inferential statistics and independent t-test or nonparametric Mann-Whitney test. analysis of covariance was used to control of potential confounders. Results: The mean values of sexual compatibility in two intervention and control groups before counseling were 94.20±3.30 and 93.41±6.84 respectively. These scores reached to 100.11±2.96 in the intervention group and 98.83±3.66 in the control group immediately after the intervention. Also two months after the end of counseling, this rate was 101.98±4.03 in the intervention group and 98.83±3.66 in the control group. The intra-group comparison of sexual adjustment scores before and after counseling and two months after the intervention, showed a statistically significant difference (P <0.001). The trend of changes in the control group was not significant (P >0.05). There was a significant difference between two groups in level of scores two months after the intervention (P <0.001). Conclusion: CBT was effective in improving the level of sexual compatibility between new married couples. It is recommended to use this method of counseling, along with other services provided at pre-marriage counseling centers, to continue and improve the quality of sex and vitality of couples.
Comparing Efficacy of Cerclage and Adjunctive Therapy (Cerclage & Pessary) in Prevention of Preterm Birth in Pregnant Women with Cervical Insufficiency: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Authors: Arjmandifar Mitra , Moshfeghi Maryam , Mohammadi Maryam , Eftekhari Mahya
Published: September 2020

Background: Cervical insufficiency is the responsible factor for 15-25% of pregnancy loss in the second trimester. Midwifery specialists sometimes prefer to use adjunctive therapy in combination with cerclage surgery for management of cervical insufficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of adjunctive pessary therapy after cerclage in improving perinatal and neonatal outcome and increasing satisfaction in women with cervical insufficiency.Methods: This concurrent randomized clinical trial was conducted at the infertility department of Royan Institute, Tehran, Iran from May 2018 to May 2020. In this trial, 170 singleton pregnant women, diagnosed with cervical insufficiency, of gestational age 14 to 26 weeks, were enrolled. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either cervical cerclage or pessary after cerclage. The primary outcomes were gestational age at the time of delivery and the percentage of preterm labor (<37 weeks). The secondary outcomes were the method of delivery, neonatal outcomes, maternal adverse events and maternal satisfaction of interventions.Results: Preterm birth before 37 weeks of gestation occurred in 16 women (19.3%) in the pessary group and 17 women (21%) in the control group (between-group difference, 1.11%; 95%CI 0.518−2.388%). In the survival analysis to 37 WK of gestation, the incidence of preterm birth was not significantly different between the two groups (Relative Risk (RR), 1; 95%CI, 0.161-6.202). Based on survival analysis, the incidence of vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain significantly differed between the two groups (RR, 2.68; 95%CI (1.31-5.46)) and (RR, 1.73; 95%CI (1.04-2.87), respectively. The mean score of satisfaction in the intervention group (5.73) was significantly higher than the control group (5.25), (between-group difference, 0.47; 95%CI (0.10-0.84).Conclusions: The placement of an adjunctive pessary for pregnant women with singleton pregnancy and a cervical insufficiency, did not result in a lower rate of preterm delivery before 37 weeks of gestation compared to cerclage alone. However, the complications of pregnancy after the intervention until delivery, were less in these women, while the level of satisfaction was higher. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20180302038914N1), May 5,2018.
The Long-term Recovery of Parotid Glands and Oral QOL in Nasopharyngeal Cancer Treated by Intensity-modulated Radiotherapy 
Authors: Tasaka Shun , Jingu Keiichi , Takahashi Noriyoshi , Matsushita Haruo , Umezawa Rei , Yamamoto Takaya , Ishikawa Yojiro , Takeda kazuya , Suzuki Yu , Kadoya Noriyuki
Published: September 2020

BackgroundXerostomia is one of the most common adverse events of radiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate longitudinal volume the change of parotid gland after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal cancer and the relationship between parotid irradiation dose and xerostomia symptoms.Methods We retrospectively analyzed longitudinal changing of parotid gland volumes in 20 patients treated by intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). We assessed xerostomia 4 years or more after IMRT by measuring the degree of oral moisture and oral QOL evaluation.ResultsThe relative parotid volumes at 0-6, 7-18, 19-30, 31-42, 43-54 and 55-66 months after IMRT were67.9 ± 10.1%, 67.7 ± 13.6%, 74.3 ± 12.5%, 75.8 ± 12.4%, 78.3 ± 17.4%, and 75.3% ± 17.7%, respectively. The parotid volume had recovered significantly at 31-42 months after IMRT, especially in parotid receiving less than 40 Gy. The mean irradiated dose for bilateral parotids showed negative correlations with oral QOL score and oral moisture. ConclusionThe mean irradiated dose for the parotid should be reduce as much as possible to improve oral QOL long after IMRT.
Designing an Evidence-Based Behavior Change Strategy to Promote Antibiotic Use in Primary Healthcare in Gezira State, Sudan
Authors: Lohiniva Anna-Leena , Elwali Einas S. , Abuobaida Duha , Abdulrahim Ashwag , Bukuluki Paul , Talaat Maha
Published: September 2020

Background: Abuse of antibiotics is a major contributing factor to the emergence of antibiotic resistance (ABR) globally. Misuse of antibiotics is common also in Sudan. Objectives: The project aimed to develop a theory driven behavior change strategy based on local understanding of drivers of antibiotic use at primary healthcare settings in Gezira State in Sudan. Methods: The strategy was designed based on the Theoretical Domains Framework to identify behavioral barriers and the Behavior Change Wheel to select appropriate behavior change techniques The process included (1) a formative qualitative research study (2) a knowledge co-production workshop that utilized the results of the qualitative study and aimed to design a salient, legitimate and credible behavior change strategy identifying relevant behavior change techniques (BCTs) to overcome key barriers. Results: The main TDF domains that emerged from the discussions were knowledge of antibiotics and AMR, skills to answer patient demand on antibiotics, prescription habits and work exhaustion, social influences, intention to change prescription practices and environmental factors. The main TDF domains that emerged through discussions with patients were antibiotic use habits, social influences, professional role belief in capabilities and intention to change. The workshop discussions resulted in the selection of five BTCs that included education, training, modeling, enablement and persuasion. Conclusion: This study, using the TDF and BCW taxonomy, identified that antibiotic prescribing is influenced by social and contextual factors. Knowledge co- production offered real benefits in addressing these complexities to come up with a set of context appropriate behavior change interventions.
Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown on the mental and physical health of adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Mosbah Helena , Coupaye Muriel , Jacques Flavien , Tauber Maithé , Clément Karine , Oppert Jean-Michel , Poitou Christine
Published: September 2020

Background
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with hypothalamic dysfunction leading to obesity and behavioral disabilities, including eating disorders (EDs). We evaluated the effects of COVID-19 infection and lockdown on mental and physical health in PWS. At the end of April, 85 adults with PWS completed a self-administered questionnaire, including lockdown conditions, physical activity (PA), ED, and medical and behavioral outcomes. Body weight was measured at home and self-reported.
Results
Patients (53% women, 45% disomic) were assessed, with a mean age of 28.1 ± 8.7 years and body mass index (BMI) of 37 ± 11 kg/m². Seventy percent lived in the Paris region (France) and were confined with their parents. The mean weight change was 1.0 ± 3.3 kg. We compared patients showing weight loss (n = 39, -3.3 ± 2.9 kg) to patients showing weight gain (n = 22, + 2.3 ± 1.5 kg): BMI was lower (34.6 ± 9.2 versus 40.4 ± 9.5 kg/m², p = 0.02), PA increased (26% versus 5%, p = 0.04), and EDs improved (51% versus 14%, p = 0.005). Behavioral disorders increased for 13% of the cohort. Three individuals (3.5%) were diagnosed with non-severe COVID-19.
Conclusion
Lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with positive effects in most French adults with PWS, with weight loss probably associated with a more favourable environment during this period. We observed no severe forms of COVID-19.
Could Graph Neural Networks Learn Better Molecular Representation for Drug Discovery? A Comparison Study of Descriptor-based and Graph-based Models
Authors: Jiang Dejun , Wu Zhenxing , Hsieh Chang-Yu , Chen Guangyong , Liao Ben , Wang Zhe , Shen Chao , Cao Dongsheng , Wu Jian , Hou Tingjun
Published: September 2020

Graph neural networks (GNN) has been considered as an attractive modelling method for molecular property prediction, and numerous studies have shown that GNN could yield more promising results than traditional descriptor-based methods. In this study, based on 11 public datasets covering various property endpoints, the predictive capacity and computational efficiency of the prediction models developed by eight machine learning (ML) algorithms, including four descriptor-based models (SVM, XGBoost, RF and DNN) and four graph-based models (GCN, GAT, MPNN and Attentive FP), were extensively tested and compared. The results demonstrate that on average the descriptor-based models outperform the graph-based models in terms of prediction accuracy and computational efficiency. SVM generally achieves the best predictions for the regression tasks. Both RF and XGBoost can achieve reliable predictions for the classification tasks, and some of the graph-based models, such as Attentive FP and GCN, can yield outstanding performance for a fraction of larger or multi-task datasets. In terms of computational cost, XGBoost and RF are the two most efficient algorithms and only need a few seconds to train a model even for a large dataset. The model interpretations by the SHAP method can effectively explore the established domain knowledge for the descriptor-based models. Finally, we explored use of these models for virtual screening (VS) towards HIV and demonstrated that different ML algorithms offer diverse VS profiles. All in all, we believe that the off-the-shelf descriptor-based models still can be directly employed to accurately predict various chemical endpoints with excellent computability and interpretability.
Tau Conformers in FTLD-MAPT  Undergo Liquid-liquid Phase Separation and Perturb the Nuclear Envelope
Authors: Kang Sang-Gyun , Han Zhuang Zhuang , Daude Nathalie , McNamara Emily , Wohlgemuth Serene , Safar Jiri G. , Mok Sue-Ann , Westaway David
Published: September 2020

Background: Germline mutations in the MAPT gene cause some forms of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). Recent studies show that a single mutation in MAPT can promote alternative tau misfolding pathways engendering divergent tau conforms and representing clinical heterogeneity, and that under conditions of cell-free molecular crowding the repertoire of tau forms can include liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Methods: Neuronal nuclear morphologies in FTLD patients and TgTauP301L transgenic mice were analyzed by immunohistochemistry of nuclear lamina. Tau conformers associated with a common behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia were cloned by endpoint dilution; the cells were assayed for viability and biochemical markers of cell death and were also assessed by video microscopy and photobleaching to determine dynamic aspects of aggregate formation.Results: Analysis of post-mortem tissues from aged neurologically normal controls and other neurodegenerative syndromes indicated that microtubule-associated nuclear clefts were associated with chronological aging and disruptions of the nuclear envelope with FTLD-MAPT. Tau conformers present in FTLD cases and transduced into reporter cells had a high propensity to condense on the nuclear envelope and to disrupt nuclear-cytoplasmic transport. Nuclear envelope fluorescent tau signals and small fluorescent inclusions in a stable clonal line behaved as a demixed liquid state under live cell conditions; indicative of LLPS effects, these droplets exhibited spherical morphology, fusion events and recovery from photobleaching. While pathogenic mutations in some proteins can interfere with physiological functions of membrane-less organelles, a disease-causing MAPT mutation perturbed nuclear-cytoplasmic transport by gain-of-function formation of LLPS on the nuclear envelope, this acting as a molecular cue to trigger regulated cell death. Thioflavin S-positive intracellular aggregates were prevalent in tau-derived inclusions with a size bigger than 3 µm2, inferring that a threshold of critical mass in the liquid state condensation may drive liquid-solid phase transitions. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that within a spectrum of alternative conformers, tau undergoing LLPS is a notably toxic species; demixed droplets on the nuclear envelope hindering nuclear-cytoplasmic transport can serve to trigger cytotoxic pathways and may act as nurseries for the abundant fibrillar structures present at end-stage disease.
Association between past tuberculosis epidemic and COVID-19-related mortality through latent infection by natural immunity
Authors: Inoue Kazuo , Kashima Saori
Published: September 2020

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has created a remarkable and varying impact in each region, which calls for broad attention. Recently, the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination has been regarded as a potential candidate to explain this difference. Herein, we hypothesised that past tuberculosis epidemic may act as a latent explanatory factor for the worldwide difference in COVID-19 impact. We compared two indicators of past tuberculosis epidemic, namely, incidence (90 countries for the incidence rate in 1990) and mortality (28 countries for the mortality rate in 1950) with COVID-19 mortality rate. An inverse relationship exists between both past epidemic indicators and COVID-19 mortality. The rate ratio of the cumulative COVID-19 mortality per 1 million was 1.08 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.98–1.18) per 1 unit decrease in the incidence rate of tuberculosis per 100,000 people. This association existed even after adjusting for potential confounders (elderly rate, diabetes prevalence, mortality rate from cardiovascular disease, and gross domestic product per capita) [adjusted rate ratio: 1.05, 95% CI: (1.03–1.08)]. After latent infection, Mycobacterium tuberculosis survives in the human body and may continue to stimulate trained immunity for lifetime. Our study has revealed one possible mechanism underlying the region-based variation in the COVID-19 impact.
Sarcoglycan A Mutation in Miniature Dachshund Dogs Causes Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2D
Authors: Mickelson James R , Minor Katie M , Guo Ling T , Friedenberg Steven G , Cullen Jonah N , Ciavarella Amanda , Hambrook Lydia E , Brenner Karen M , Helmond Sarah E , Marks Stanley L , Shelton G Diane
Published: September 2020

BackgroundA cohort of related miniature dachshund dogs with exercise intolerance, stiff gait, dysphagia, myoglobinuria and markedly elevated serum creatine kinase activities were identified. MethodsMuscle biopsy histopathology, immunofluorescence microscopy, and western blotting, were combined to identify the specific pathologic phenotype of the myopathy, and whole genome SNP array genotype data and whole genome sequencing were combined to determine its genetic basis.ResultsMuscle biopsies were dystrophic. Sarcoglycanopathy, a form of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, was suspected based on immunostaining and western blotting, where α, β, and γ-sarcoglycan were all absent or reduced. Genetic mapping and whole genome sequencing identified a premature stop codon mutation in the sarcoglycan A subunit gene ( SGCA ). Affected dachshunds were confirmed on several continents. ConclusionsThis first SGCA mutation found in dogs adds to the literature of genetic bases of canine muscular dystrophies and their usefulness as comparative models of human disease.
Inclusion double light refraction the apoplast in shoots development structure the Picea obovata and P. abies (Pinaceae)
Authors: Скупченко В.Б.
Published: September 2020

Включения апопласта с двойным светопреломлением (ВАДС) обнаружены в паренхиме коры укороченного стебля зрелой почки. Исследование этих включений в электронном микроскопе показало, что они содержат электронопрозрачные компоненты, которые погружены в осмиофильную электроноплотную среду. Двойным светопреломлением включений оболочек клеток обладает липидный компонент, в кристаллической форме составляющий их наибольшую часть.

В формирующихся побегах ВАДС появляются вначале ранней весной в зачатках хвои. Затем ВАДС накапливаются в меристеме коровой паренхимы укороченного стебля новой терминальной почки. В последующем ВАДС откладываются в паренхиме коры удлиненного стебля охвоенной части молодого побега, который при этом включается в активный продольный рост. ВАДС, появившиеся в зонах активного роста тканей, остаются в них продолжительное время. В мезофилле хвои ВАДС располагаются на оболочках клеток, в основном обращенных к полостям межклетников.

Вероятно, в начале своего появления ВАДС образуют некоторый фонд метаболитов, участвующих в поддержании активных ростовых процессов меристем, расположенных под покровами почки. В дальнейшем, они могут представлять собой место депонирования метаболитов, выводимых из обмена веществ. Значительное накопление ВАДС, имеющих липофильное окружение, может вызвать торможение транспирации хвои и газообмена клеток мезофилла. Возможно, накопление ВАДС представляет собой один из факторов старения хвои и паренхимных тканей коры побегов.

Inclusion double light refraction the apoplast (VADS) are discovered in parenchyma cortexes shortcut stem mature bud. The research of these inclusion in electronic microscope has shown that they contain the electrontransparent components, which are shipped in osmiofil electrondencity ambience. Double light refraction inclusion cell walls hutches possesses lipid component in crystalline form forming their most part.

In development shoot VADS appear the early springtime in primordium needls. Then VADS are accumulated in meristem cortexes parenchyma shortcut stem new terminal bud. In the following VADS are postponed in parenchyma cortexes stem needls part of the young shoot, which is herewith included in active longitudal growing. VADS, come up for zone of the active growing fabric, remain long-lasting time in them. In mesophyll pine-needles VADS are situated on the walls of cells, basically turned to intercellular spaces.

Probably, at the beginning initially its appearances VADS form certain fund a metabolities, participating in maintenance active growing processes meristems, located under cover of the bud. Hereinafter, they can present itself place of the deposition metabolities, taken out from metabolism. The Significant accumulation VADS, having lipophyl encirclement, can cause the braking an transpiration to pine-needles and gas exchange of the cells mesophyll. Possible, accumulation VADS presents itself one of the factor of the ageing to pine-needles and parenchym tissues of the shoot cortex.
Experimental studies of pine sawdust briquetting under hydraulic press equipment
Authors: Чибирев О.В. , Куницкая О.А. , Ильюшенко Д.А.
Published: September 2020

Статья посвящена исследованию зависимости жесткости опилок от их фракции и степени уплотнения при прессовании на гидравлическом прессе. Для экспериментов использовали опилки, полученные при пилении древесины сосны дисковой и цепной пилой. Экспериментальный материал предварительно сепарировали при помощи колонки сит так, чтобы получить пробы с различной фракцией: 5-10 мм, 3-5 мм, 2-3 мм, 0,5-2 мм, <0,5 мм (поддон). Влажность опилок составляла 7-10%. Прессование экспериментальных проб производили на гидравлическом прессе RUF BP-600 при давлении прессования до 150 МПа. Всего было выполнено 15 опытных запрессовок, по 3 повторения для каждой фракции опилок. Установлено, что в общем виде экспериментальные зависимости потребного давления прессования опилок от плотности брикетов можно описать степенными функциями. Также на основании экспериментальных данных установлено, что модуль деформации сосновых опилок изменяется в пределах от 0,5 до 5 ГПа и заметно зависит как от плотности, так и от фракции прессуемого материала. Экспериментально установлено, что при равном давлении легче, по сравнению с прочими фракциями, прессуются опилки фракцией 3-5 мм. Оптимальная для прессования фракция опилок в проведенных опытах составила 3,7 мм. При фракции крупнее 7 мм жесткость материала резко возрастает, в связи с этим процесс прессования усложняется. В заключение освещаются перспективные направления дальнейших экспериментальных исследований, приводятся рекомендации по структуре планов последующих экспериментов.

The article focuses on the dependence between stiffness of pine sawdust, its faction and compaction degree in the process of briquetting under hydraulic press. Experimental samples came from sawdust produced with sawing of pine wood with circular saw and a chainsaw. The experimental material was separated using a column of sieves in order to obtain samples of various fractions: 5-10 mm 3-5 mm 2-3 mm, 0.5-2 mm, <0.5 mm (on the pan). The sawdust had 7-10% humidity. Briquetting of the experimental samples was performed with RUF BP-600 hydraulic press at a pressure of 150 MPa. (15 experimental samples total, 3 reps for each sawdust fraction). The results establish that in general the experimental dependence between required compaction pressure and the briquettes density appears as a power functions. Based on experimental data, research sets that the deformation modulus of pine sawdust varies from 0.5 to 5 GPa and significantly depends on the density and fractions of the molded material. The paper establishes that 3-5 mm fraction of sawdust is easier compacted compared to other fractions. Optimal fraction of sawdust in the experiments was 3.7 mm. Sawdust fraction over 7 mm has sharply increased stiffness, thereby pressing process becomes complicated. In conclusion, the article highlights prospective topics for further experimental research, providing guidance on the structure of plans for subsequent experiments.
A Systematic Review of Research Articles on Measurement Invariance in Education and Psychology
Authors: ALATLI Betül
Published: September 2020

This study aims to reveal the trends in the related field by examining the researches evaluating the measurement invariance in education and psychology between 2008-2019. Accordingly, 99 articles published in three journals that were selected using the purposive sampling method among the journals indexed on Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI)were analyzed within the scope of the study. As a result of the content analysis, in the studies investigating the measurement invariance, typical response tests were observed to be the most frequently employed tests, sample sizes often included 1501 or greater number of subjects, and data were mostly collected from students. The measurement invariance of the tests was mostly analyzed in terms of the gender variable. According to the results of the bibliometric analysis, on the other hand, only Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analysis was mostly conducted on the Mplus software package. In the studies, the most cited article was "Cheung and Rensvold (2002)", the author was "Cheung, G. W.", and the journal was "Structural Equation Modeling: A Multidisciplinary Journal". According to the results of the analysis, studies, references, and keywords including factor analysis were among the most commonly used group, which denotes that factor analysis has a crucial role in invariance measurement analyses.
Early embryonic death in mares: The causes, diagnosis and prevention
Authors: KOZDROWSKI ROLAND , OMYŁA KORNELIA
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to describe the most important causes of early embryonic death (EED) in mares, as well as diagnostic methods and possible prevention procedures. Ageing and subclinical endometritis are described and discussed in detail as the most important causes of EED in mares. EED is also discussed in relation to foaling heat breeding and the time of insemination or natural cover. Other causes of EDD discussed in the study are progesterone deficiency due to primary corpus luteum dysfunction, mare’s weight loss, chromosomal abnormality and abnormal embryonic vesicle fixation. Positive effects can be achieved through maintaining ideal body condition, diagnosis and treatment of subclinical endometritis, appropriate care of the mare in the postpartum period, avoiding mating those mares that may ovulate before the 10th day after delivery, as well as monitoring the genital tract after mating for persistent post-breeding induced endometritis. Administration of altrenogest should be reserved for those cases in which endometritis has been ruled out as the cause of EED.
TIPOLOGIAS ES´PACIAIS DA VÁRZEA AMAZÔNICA
Authors: Ribeiro Vicente Letícia , Duarte Cardoso Ana Cláudia
Published: September 2020

Os objetivos desta pesquisa são caracterizar tipologias espaciais de assentamentos humanos (localidades e vilas ribeirinhas) ligados ao sistema rio – mata – roça – quintal, que sintetizem a complexidade do cotidiano em contexto de várzea e revelem sua matriz espacial própria, e rastrear seus fragmentos nas derivações observadas nos contextos urbano e metropolitano. A pesquisa assume como principal área de estudo o município de Afuá, arquipélago do Marajó, estado do Pará, onde a ocupação ainda é tipicamente de várzea; parte da caracterização morfológica dos arranjos espaciais observados na sede e em comunidades do município, que transcenderam o tempo (arranjos matrizes), para cotejá-los com arranjos espaciais existentes em ambiente de várzea da ilha do Combu, em Belém, polo metropolitano. O método de análise adaptou categorias da Escola Italiana de Morfologia para a realidade amazônica, e evidenciou semelhanças nos arranjos espaciais das ilhas dos dois municípios, associadas à existência de uma consciência espontânea, assim como a tendência de ruptura já manifesta na sede de Afuá, que gradativamente absorve valores e políticas metropolitanos. Propõe-se que a compreensão da espacialidade da várzea subsidie políticas territoriais e urbanas, que até então têm sido pautados exclusivamente por uma consciência crítica e técnica que tende a negar os limites e ritmos da natureza na região Amazônica.
USABILIDADE DO ESPAÇO PÚBLICO
Authors: Tissot Juliana Tasca , Vergara Lizandra , Merino Giselle , Merino Eugenio , Modesti Isadora
Published: September 2020

O número de idosos está crescendo cada dia mais. A estimativa prevê que em 2025, existirá um total de aproximadamente 1,2 bilhões de pessoas com mais de 60 anos e que até 2050 esse número chegue a dois bilhões. Para envelhecer de maneira saudável e ativa, deve-se levar em conta os perigos do ambiente físico como as barreiras, por exemplo, que podem causar lesões incapacitantes, sendo as mais frequentes aquelas decorrentes de quedas. Ter uma moradia e vizinhança segura são essenciais para o bem-estar do idoso. Dessa forma, esta pesquisa objetivou identificar a percepção de idosos ao risco de quedas no deslocamento no passeio público no município de Balneário Camboriú/SC. Para estruturação da pesquisa conceitos de usabilidade e acessibilidade; barreiras físicas; a relação entre os idosos e as quedas; o entendimento sobre legislações voltadas à pessoa idosa; normativas e orientações para projetos de espaços públicos foram estudados. A pesquisa foi de natureza bibliográfica e exploratória, com pesquisas em artigos, livros, além de Visita Exploratória e Passeio Walkthrough com usuários. Como resultados tem-se que ao projetar espaços externos, especificamente passeio públicos, deve-se levar em conta que o piso podotátil, a inclinação, altura e estreitamento dos passeios, os rebaixamentos de guia, as tampas de caixa de inspeção, a funcionalidade e estética da pavimentação dos passeios, além da aglomeração de pessoas. Além disso, o arquiteto e urbanista deve seguir as premissas da legislação e normas vigentes.
ARQUITETURA E ENFRENTAMENTO DE PANDEMIAS NO SÉCULO XXI
Authors: Veloso Maísa
Published: September 2020

Este texto apresenta as principais ideias defendidas na Roda de Conversa Virtual realizada pelo Grupo Projetar da UFRN no dia 22 de julho de 2020, enfocando a relação entre Arquitetura e Pandemia, com destaque para alguns aspectos a serem considerados no projeto arquitetônico.
O Combate à desinformação sobre a pandemia de covid-19 na amazônia
Authors: Oliveira Ivana , Sousa Maíra Evangelista de , Abreu Giovanna Figueiredo de
Published: September 2020

Em março de 2020, a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) decretou que o mundo vive a pandemia de Covid-19, uma doença respiratória aguda causada pelo Coronavírus SARS-CoV-2. A região Amazônica foi um dos primeiros epicentros da enfermidade no Brasil. Em um contexto de sociedade conectada por redes (CASTELLS, 1999), a propagação de informações falsas sobre a Pandemia foi um dos desafios a ser enfrentado. Nesse sentido, este artigo de caráter descritivo tem o objetivo de compreender como a Secretaria de Estado de Saúde Pública do Pará (Sespa) iniciou o combate à desinformação sobre a pandemia de Covid-19. Adotou-se como objeto empírico as postagens do perfil @sespapara no Instagram sobre informações falsas publicadas entre março e maio deste ano.