bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in the effect of sleep deprivation on the postural stability among men and women
Authors: Ołpińska-Lischka Marta , Kujawa Karolina , Maciaszek Janusz
Published: August 2020

Objective: Sleepiness caused by poor sleep hygiene may increase the risk of injuries and damages during physical activity. Individual data so far indicate a generally better static postural stability of women regardless of sleeping conditions. The main aim of this study was to assess the impact of sleep deprivation on postural stability according to gender after 24 hours of sleep deprivation. Methods: Participants included 83 students (36 men and 47 women). Postural stability was measured with eyes open and closed eyes before and after sleep deprivation. Data from posturographic platform were used to assess postural stability objectively. Results: The type of test determined the size of observed changes in postural stability. The data suggest that women are better able to cope with the effects of sleep deprivation than men. ﻿Conclusion: Postural control system is very important in sport and in physically active people. The results show that men are more sensitive to sleep deprivation than women because they had higher COP path length values in tests. Less postural stability of the body due to sleep deprivation indicates a higher risk of injury during physical activity.
Downregulation of circ-TRPS1 suppressed prostatic cancer prognoses by regulating miR-124-3p/EZH2 axis-mediated stemness
Authors: Sha Jianjun , Xia Lei , Han Qing , Chi Chenfei , Zhu Yinjie , Pan Jiahua , Huang Yiran , Xia Weiliang , Dong Baijun , Xue Wei , Yang Chen
Published: August 2020

Background: Abnormal circular RNA (circRNA) expression correlates with human traits such as many kinds of cancers. Though circRNAs have links to cancer, they have less characterization in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (PCa), which is main reason for PCa mortality.Methods: Therefore, high-throughput sequencing was used for selected circRNA profiles. We performed RT-qPCR to determine circ-TRPS1 expression regarding PCa tissues. We used fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to detect circ-TRPS1 expression and circ-TRPS1 subcellular localization in PCa tissues. circ-TRPS1 expression in PCa cells was selectively regulated. We employed CCK8, transwell assays to monitor the cell proliferation and invasion, respectively. We employed dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pulldown assays to verify the relationship among circ-TRPS1, miR-124-3p, and EZH2. We examined the circ-TRPS1 effects on PCa cell metastasis and proliferation in vivo through a subcutaneous xenograft model as well as an intravenous tail injection model of nude mice.Results: The result showed that circ-TRPS1 was upregulated significantly in high-grade PCa tissues or cell lines. High circ-TRPS1 expression correlated to aggressive PCa phenotypes. Knockdown of circ-TRPS1 suppressed PCa proliferation and metastasis through targeting miR-124-3p/EZH2 axis-mediated stemness in PCa, which was validated by luciferase reporter assays. EZH2 overexpression or miR-124-3p inhibition reversed the inhibition of circ-TRPS1 silencing in PCa cell migration and proliferation by recovering stemness.Conclusion: In summary, data demonstrated that circ-TRPS1 suppressed PCa progression through functioning similar to a miR-124-3p sponge to enhance EZH2 expression and cancer stem-like cell differentiation. Thus, circ-TRPS1 might be a candidate target for PCa treatment.
Mechanistic Modelling of Coronavirus Infections and the Impact of Confined Neighbourhoods on a Short Time Scale
Authors: Ahmed Danish Ali , Ansari Ali , Imran Mudassar , Dingle Kamal , Ahmed Naveed , Bonsall Michael
Published: August 2020

Background: To mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, some countries have adopted more stringent non-pharmaceutical interventions in contrast to those widely used (for e.g. the state of Kuwait). In addition to standard practices such as enforcing curfews, social distancing, and closure of non-essential service industries, other non-conventional policies such as the total confinement of highly populated areas has also been implemented. Methods: In this paper, we model the movement of a host population using a mechanistic approach based on random walks, which are either diffusive or super-diffusive. Infections are realised through a contact process, whereby a susceptible host may be infected if in close spatial proximity of the infectious host. Our focus is only on the short-time scale prior to the infectious period, so that no further transmission is assumed. Results: We find that the level of infection depends heavily on the population dynamics, and increases in the case of slow population diffusion, but remains stable for a high or super-diffusive population. Also, we find that the confinement of homogeneous or overcrowded sub-populations has minimal impact in the short term. Conclusions: Our results indicate that on a short time scale, confinement restrictions or complete lock down of whole residential areas may not be effective. Finally, we discuss the possible implications of our findings for total confinement in the context of the current situation in Kuwait.
Buffalo Milk Can Rescue Fatigue in Young Mice, Alleviate Oxidative Stress and Boost Learning and Memory in Aging Mice
Authors: Liao Xinglv , Ahmad Muhammad Jamil , Chen Chao , George Jitu W , Yang Liguo , Hua Guohua
Published: August 2020

Background: An advanced age associated pathology is decreasing cognitive ability and impeding antioxidant system integrity. Adverse drug reactions have prompted the need for complementary and alternative medicine dietary therapy. Buffalo milk is reported to have high levels of various nutrients which makes it an ideal candidate for complementary dietary therapy. However, its effects on oxidation, fatigue, learning and memory potential remains to be explored. Results: Compared with cow milk, buffalo milk showed better anti-fatigue effect evidenced by improved force swimming time, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, hepatic glycogen, and decline of blood urea nitrogen (P<0.05), especially in young female mice. Pasteurized buffalo milk (PBM) and high-temperature treatment sterilized buffalo milk (HTBM) both rescued the serum and liver anti-oxidative enzymes impaired by D-galactose treatment. However, PBM supplement showed higher liver superoxide dismutase (P<0.05) and glutathione peroxidase level (P<0.05) than HTBM in D-galactose induced aging mice. PBM and HTBM both enhanced the priority and discrimination indexes for object recognition and locations tests in D-galactose induced aging mice model. Supplement of PBM or HTBM successfully restored brain superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase levels, and brain protein content in D-galactose induced aging mice (P<0.05). Meanwhile, the elevated malondialdehyde levels were also decreased (P<0.05) by either PBM or HTBM treatment. Conclusion: Our present study established that buffalo milk, as a natural dairy product, could alleviate fatigue in young mice, and rescue oxidative stress and promote learning and memory in aging mice. Pasteurized buffalo milk showed more favorable effects on aging mice when compared with high-temperature treatment sterilized buffalo milk.
COVID-19 in-hospital mortality and mode of death in a dynamic and non-restricted tertiary care model in Germany
Authors: Rieg Siegbert , Cube Maja von , Kalbhenn Johannes , Utzolino Stefan , Pernice Katharina , Bechet Lena , Baur Johanna , Lang Corinna N. , Wagner Dirk , Wolkewitz Martin , Kern Winfried V. , Biever Paul
Published: August 2020

BackgroundReported mortality of hospitalised COVID-19 patients varies substantially, particularly in critically ill patients. So far COVID-19 in-hospital mortality and modes of death under optimised care conditions have not been systematically studied.MethodsThis retrospective observational monocenter cohort study was performed after implementation of a non-restricted, dynamic tertiary care model at the University Medical Center Freiburg, an experienced ARDS and ECMO referral center. All hospitalised patients with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. The primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality, secondary endpoints included major complications and modes of death. A multistate analysis and a Cox regression analysis for competing risk models were performed. Modes of death were determined by two independent reviewers.ResultsBetween February 25, and May 8, 213 patients were included in the analysis. The median age was 65 years, 129 patients (61%) were male. 70 patients (33%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), of which 57 patients (81%) received mechanical ventilation and 23 patients (33%) extracorporeal membrane-oxygenation (ECMO) support. According to the multistate model the probability to die within 90 days after COVID-19 onset was 24% in the whole cohort. If the levels of care at time of study entry were accounted for, the probabilities to die were 16% if the patient was initially on a regular ward, 47% if in the ICU and 57% if mechanical ventilation was required at study entry. Age ≥ 65 years and male sex were predictors for in-hospital death. Predominant complications – as judged by two independent reviewers – determining modes of death were multi-organ failure, septic shock and thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications.ConclusionIn a dynamic care model COVID-19-related in-hospital mortality remained substantial. In the absence of potent antiviral agents, strategies to alleviate or prevent the identified complications should be investigated. In this context, multistate analyses enable comparison of models-of-care and treatment strategies and allow estimation and allocation of health care resources.RegistrationGerman Clinical Trials Register (identifier DRKS00021775), retrospectively registered June 10, 2020.
Vitamin A Deficiency and Sleep Disturbances Related to Autism Symptoms in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wen Jing , Yang Ting , Zhu Jiang , Guo Min , Lai Xi , Tang Ting , Chen Li , Chen Jie , Xue Ming , Yu Li Ting
Published: August 2020

Background: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) and sleep disturbances have been reported in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The influence of vitamin A (VA) on sleep regulation and sleep disturbances in ASD has garnered increased attention. This study aims to characterize the effect of VA levels and sleep disturbances on children with ASD.Methods: This cross-sectional study compared children with ASD (n=856) to typically developing children (TDC; n=316). The Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire assessed sleep disturbances, Childhood Autism Rating Scale evaluated the severity of autism symptoms, and Autism Behavior Checklist and Social Responsiveness Scale assessed autism behaviors. VA levels in blood samples were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Multivariable linear regression and two-way ANOVAs were performed to investigate the effect of VAD and sleep disturbances in children with ASD.Results: Children with ASD had lower serum VA levels and a higher prevalence of sleep disturbances than TDC. VAD and sleep disturbances in children with ASD corresponded to the severity of autism symptoms. Importantly, VA levels were negatively correlated with sleep disturbances among children with ASD, and the interaction of VAD and sleep disturbances were related to the severity of autism symptoms.Conclusion: VAD and sleep disturbances exacerbated autism symptoms in children with ASD, providing a novel target for treatment.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registration number: ChiCTR-ROC-14005442
The Influence of Parental Feeding Knowledge and Practices on Chinese Children and Adolescents' Weight Status
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhang Yaorong , Qiu Liya , Yang Guangxing
Published: August 2020

Background: Child and adolescent overweight is becoming more prevalent in recent decades. It is imperative to investigate the determinants of children and adolescents’ weight outcomes. Methods: Through analyzing the 2004, 2006, 2009 and 2011 waves of survey data released by China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS), this paper investigated the gender and rural-urban differences in terms of the ways in which parental feeding knowledge and practices affected the weight status of Chinese children and adolescents aged 6 to 17. Data were collected through random sampling strategy and logistic regression models were built to conduct analyses.Results: The results showed that feeding knowledge and practices varied by parental residence and were different among mothers and fathers. In addition, parental feeding knowledge, parental eating habits and styles, mother’s intervention on children’s food intakes and physical exercise, and the number of meals parents sharing with children showed significant effects on children and adolescents' weight status. Conclusions: As compared to fathers, mothers’ feeding practices showed more significant effects on children and adolescents’ weight status. The manner in which parental feeding practices influenced children and adolescents’ weight status also differed in rural and urban settings. These findings suggested that mothers were still “gatekeepers” of children and adolescents’ food choices and selection; their feeding practices played a more decisive role on Chinese youth’s weight status. The urban-rural differentials highlighted in this research also reminded us that the “one-fits-all” solutions to prevent youth’s obesity should be avoided.
Pan-cancer analysis of tumor mutational burden and homologous recombination DNA damage repair by targeted next-generation sequencing
Authors: Wang Hai-Yun , Deng Ling , Li Ying-Qing , Zhang Xiao , Long Ya-Kang , Zhang Xu , Feng Yan-Fen , He Yuan , Tang Tao , Yang Xin-Hua , Wang Fang
Published: August 2020

Background: Current variability in methods for tumor mutational burden (TMB) estimation and reporting urges the need for a homogeneous TMB assessment. Here we compared the TMB distributions in different cancer types using two customized targeted panels commonly used in clinical practice. Methods: TMB spectrum of the 295- and 1021-Gene panels in multiple cancer types were compared using targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS). Then the TMB distributions across a diverse cohort of 2,332 cancer cases were investigated for their associations to clinical features. Treatment response data was collected for 222 patients who received immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and their homologous recombination DNA damage repair (HR-DDR) and PD-L1 expression were additionally assessed, and compared with TMB and response rate. Results: The median TMB between the gene panels were similar despite wide range in TMB values. Highest TMB was 8 and 10 in patients with squamous cell carcinoma and esophageal carcinoma according to the classification of histopathology and cancer types, respectively. Patients with high TMB and HR-DDR positive status could benefit from ICIs therapies (23 patients versus 7 patients with treatment response, P = 0.004). Additionally, PD-L1 expression was not associated with TMB and treatment response among patients receiving ICIs. Conclusions: Targeted NGS assays demonstrated advantageous ability to evaluate TMB in pan-cancer samples as a tool to predict response to ICIs. Also, TMB integrated with HR-DDR positive status could be a significant biomarker for predicting ICIs response in patients.
Plasma EBV miRNA Profiles Reveal Potential Biomarkers for Clinical Prognosis of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome-related Lymphoma
Authors: Chen Ying , Peng Xiaorong , Guo Yongzheng , Huang Ying , Xu Yan , Zhu Biao
Published: August 2020

Background Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome-related lymphoma (ARL) is closely related to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. However, there are few studies on the occurrence and development of EBV miRNAs in ARL patients.Methods The plasma of 5 EBV-infected ARL patients and 8 EBV-infected HIV patients were screened for EBV miRNAs differentially expressed between the two groups through EBV microRNA quantification chip. The plasma of 35 EBV-infected ARL patients and 20 EBV-infected HIV patients was verified by qRT-PCR expanded samples. And we gave a further analysis of the correlation between differentially expressed EBV miRNAs and clinical prognosis indicators in ARL patients.Results 1. There were differential expressions of EBV miRNAs in the plasma of EBV-infected ARL patients and EBV-infected HIV patients. It was found that EBV-miR-BART2-5p,EBV-miR-BART8-3p,EBV-miR-BART15, EBV-miR-BART19-5p expression was significantly up-regulated and EBV-miR-BART9-5p expression was significantly down-regulated; 2. EBV microRNAs with significantly different expressions in the screening results were expanded and verified by qRT-PCR, and the differential expression was found to be consistent with the screening results; 3. The relative expression levels of EBV-miR-BART8-3p in plasma were positive correlated with the International Prognostic Index (IPI) score of Lymphoma(r = 0.37,P = 0.03),EBV-miR-BART19-5p was positive correlated with B symptoms (r = 0.42,P = 0.01) and EBV-miR-BART9-5p, was positive correlated with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scores (r = 0.35,P = 0.04).Conclusions The expression of EBV-miR-BART2-5p, EBV-miR-BART8-3p, EBV-miR-BART15,EBV-miR-BART19-5p,EBV-miR-BART9-5p in ARL patients were highly different; and EBV-miR-BART8-3p, EBV-miR-BART19-5p, EBV-miR-BART9-5p could be used as the biomarkers for the prognosis of ARL.
Non-intubated Minimally Invasive Chest Wall Stabilization for Multiple Rib Fractures: a Prospective, Single-arm Study
Authors: Zhao Weigang , Chen Yonglin , He Weiwei , Zhao Yonghong , Yang Yi
Published: August 2020

Background
Non-intubated video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery has been widely reported in the past decade while non-intubated chest wall stabilization has not been reported previously. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of non-intubated minimally invasive chest wall stabilization in patients with multiple rib fractures.
Methods
We conducted a prospective, single-arm, observational study. In this prospective study, 20 consecutive patients with multiple rib fractures were treated using non-intubated minimally invasive chest wall stabilization.
Results
Minimally invasive chest wall stabilization were mostly performed for lateral rib fractures in this study (n = 8). The mean operation time was 92.5 minutes and mean blood loss was 49 ml. No patient required conversion to tracheal intubation. The mean extubation of laryngeal mask time was 8.9 minutes, mean postoperative fasting time was 6.1 hours, mean postoperative hospital stay was 6.2 days, mean postoperative drainage was 97.5 ml, mean postoperative pain score was 2.9 points at 6 hours, 2.8 points at 12 hours, and 3.0 points at 24 hours, mean postoperative nausea and vomiting score was 1.9 points at 6 hours, 1.8 points at 12 hours, and 1.7 points at 24 hours.
Conclusions
Non-intubated minimally invasive chest wall stabilization is safe and feasible in carefully selected patients. Further study with large sample size is warranted.
Complexity of Brassica Oleracea-Alternaria Brassicicola Susceptible Interaction Reveals Down-regulation of Photosynthesis at Ultrastructural, Transcriptional and Physiological Levels
Authors: Macioszek Violetta Katarzyna , Gapińska Magdalena , Zmienko Agnieszka , Sobczak Mirosław , Skoczowski Andrzej , Oliwa Jakub , Kononowicz Andrzej Kiejstut
Published: August 2020

BackgroundBlack spot disease, caused by Alternaria brassicicola in Brassica species, is one of the most devastating diseases all over the world, especially since there is no known fully resistant Brassica cultivar. In this study, the visualization of black spot disease development on B. oleracea var. capitata f. alba (white cabbage) leaves and subsequent ultrastructural, molecular and physiological investigations were conducted. ResultsFollowing germination on B. oleracea leaves, A. brassicicola invaded the host epidermal cells through appressoria, stomata or directly. The fungal attempts to penetrate epidermal cells usually evoked host cell death, and defense reactions manifested by the bright 'halo' around penetration site and host cell wall fortification were also observed. Inter- and intracellular hyphae growth within leaf tissues led to the loss of host cell integrity and various levels of organelle disintegration. Severe symptoms of chloroplast damage included the degeneration of chloroplast envelope and grana, and the loss of electron denseness by stroma at the advanced stage of infection. Transcriptional profiling of infected leaves revealed that photosynthesis was the most negatively regulated biological process. The down-regulation of 6 photosynthesis-related genes involved in light reactions and the Calvin cycle began as early as 12 hours post-inoculation (hpi) and extended to 44 genes at 48 hpi. Although in infected leaves, chlorophyll and carotenoid content did not decrease until 48 hpi, several chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters, such as photosystem II quantum yield (Fv/Fm), non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) or plant vitality parameter (Rdf) decreased significantly at 24 and 48 hpi compared to control leaves. ConclusionsOur results indicate that the initial stages of interaction between B. oleracea and A. brassicicola are not uniform within an inoculation site and show a complexity of host responses and fungal attempts to overcome host cell defense mechanisms. The down-regulation of photosynthesis at the early stage of this susceptible interaction suggests that it may be a part of a host defense strategy, or alternatively, that chloroplasts are targets for the unknown virulence factor(s) of A. brassicicola. However, the observed decrease of photosynthetic efficiency at the later stages of infection is a result of the fungus-induced necrotic lesion expansion.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and Dyslipidemia in point mutation G307S of cystathionine β-synthase-deficient rabbit generated using CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Zhang Ting , Lu Rui , Chen Yibing , Yuan Yuguo , Song Shaozheng , Yan Kunning , Zha Yiwen , Zhuang Wenwen , Liang Jingyan , Cheng Yong
Published: August 2020

Background: Congenital hyper-homocysteinemia (HHcy) is caused by a defective cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) gene, and is frequently associated with dyslipdemia. The aim of this study was to further elucidate the effect of mutated CBS gene on circulating lipids using a rabbit model harboring a homozygous G307S point mutation in CBS.Methods: CRISPR/Cas9 system was used in rabbit embryos to edit their CBS gene. The founder rabbits were sequenced, and their plasma Hcy and lipid profile were analyzed. Results: Six CBS-KO founder lines with biallelic modifications were obtained. Mutation in CBS caused significant growth retardation and high mortality rates within 6 weeks after birth. In addition, the 6-week old CBS-KO rabbits showed higher plasma levels of Hcy, TG, TC and LDL-C compared to the age-matched wild-type (WT) controls. Histological analysis of the mutants showed accumulation of micro-vesicular cytoplasmic lipid droplets in the hepatocytes. However, gastric infusion of vitamin B and betaine complex significantly decreased the plasma levels of TG, TC and LDL-C in the CBS-KO rabbits, as well as hepatic steatosis compared to the untreated animals. Conclusion: We generated CBSG307S rabbit model that exhibited severe dyslipidemia when fed on a normal diet, indicating that G307S mutation in the CBS gene is a causative factor for dyslipidemia.
Prevalence and Correlates of Adherence to The Combined Movement Guidelines Among Czech Children and Adolescents
Authors: Rubín Lukáš , Gába Aleš , Dygrýn Jan , Jakubec Lukáš , Materová Eliška , Vencálek Ondřej
Published: August 2020

Background: There are limited studies on the prevalence of adherence to the combined guidelines for physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, and sleep in children and adolescents. Moreover, little is known about correlates of adherence to the guidelines. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to examine the prevalence and identify the correlates of adherence to the combined movement guidelines among children and adolescents. Methods: A total of 355 children and 324 adolescents from the Czech Republic participated in this study. PA and sleep duration were estimated using multi-day 24-hour raw data from wrist-worn accelerometers. Recreational screen time was self-reported. Sixteen potential correlates were grouped into three homogenous categories for biological and cognitive, behavioral, and family correlates. The multi-level multivariable regression was applied to identify correlates of adherence to combined movement guidelines and to specific combinations of any of two recommendations.Results: Approximately 6.5% of children and 2.2% of adolescents met all recommendations of the combined movement guidelines. Paternal overweight and obesity was significantly associated with adherence to the combined movement guidelines in children (OR = 0.3; 95% CI = 0.1–0.7). Additionally, children had higher odds of meeting specific combinations of two recommendations if they reported healthy diet, participated in organized PA, or if their fathers had a university degree. Meanwhile, paternal overweight and obesity, and high sleep efficiency were associated with lower odds of meeting specific combinations of recommendations. In adolescents, healthy diet, organized PA, and active play were associated with higher odds of meeting specific combinations of any two recommendations. Conclusions: A low proportion of children and adolescents met the combined movement guidelines and several correlates related to family were identified. Family is a key source of influence for healthy movement behaviors during childhood and adolescence.
Nanomicelles Potentiate HDAC Inhibitor Efficacy In Vitro.
Authors: Pisano Simone , Wang Xiong , Hu Yanzhen , He Le , Gonzalez Deyarina , Francis Lewis , Conlan Robert Steven , Li Chao
Published: August 2020

Background. Amphiphilic block copolymers used as nanomicelle drug carriers can effectively overcome poor drug solubility and specificity issues. Hence, these platforms have a broad applicability in cancer treatment. In this study, Pluronic F127 was used to fabricate nanomicelles containing the histone deacetylase inhibitor SAHA, which has an epigenetic-driven anti-cancer effect in several tumor types. SAHA loaded nanomicelles were prepared using a thin-film drying method and characterized for size, surface charge, drug content and drug release properties. Loaded particles were tested for in vitro activity and their effect on cell-cycle and markers of metastasis. Results. Following detailed particle characterization, cell proliferation experiments demonstrated that SAHA loaded nanomicelles more effectively inhibited the growth of HeLa and MCF-7 cell lines compared with free drug formulations. The 30nm SAHA containing nanoparticles were able to release up to 100% of the encapsulated drug over a 72h time window. Moreover, gene and protein expression analyses suggested that this effect was achieved through the regulation of p21 and p53 expression. SAHA was also shown to upregulate E-cadherin expression, potentially influencing tumor migration and metastasis.Conclusions. This study highlights the opportunity to exploit pluronic-based nanomicelles for the delivery of compounds that regulate epigenetic processes, thus inhibiting cancer development and progression.
Effect of docosahexaenoic acid plus insulin on atherosclerotic human endothelial cells
Authors: Abriz Aysan Eslami , Rahbarghazi Reza , Nourazarian Alireza , Avci Çıgır Biray , Mahboob Soltan Ali , Rahnema Maryam , Heidarzadeh Morteza
Published: August 2020

Background: Atherosclerosis is touted as one of the most critical consequences of diabetes mellitus indicated by local inflammation of endothelial cells. The Effect of Omega 3 fatty acids, mainly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been investigated in cells after exposure to high doses of lipids. The current experiment aimed to address the modulatory effects of docosahexaenoic acid and insulin in palmitic-treated human endothelial cells. Methods: Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with 1mM palmitic acid, 50μM insulin, 50μM docosahexaenoic acid, and their combination for 48 hours. Cell survival rate and apoptosis were measured using MTT and flow cytometry assays. The Griess assay detected NO levels. Protein levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB were studied using ELISA and immunofluorescence imaging. The expression of genes participating in atherosclerosis was monitored using PCR array analysis. Results: Oil Red O staining showed the inhibitory effect of DHA and insulin to reduce the intracellular accumulation of palmitic acid. Both DHA and Insulin increased the reduced cell survival rate of cells after exposure to palmitic acid (p<0.05). The percent of apoptotic cells was decreased in palmitic-treated cells received insulin and DHA compared to palmitic-treated group (p<0.05). Based on our data, DHA and Insulin diminished the production of all inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB, in palmitic-treated cells (p<0.05). Similar to these data, NO production was also decreased in all groups treated with insulin and DHA compared to the palmitic-treated cells (p<0.05). PCR array analysis revealed the modulatory Effect of DHA and insulin on the expression of atherosclerosis-related genes pre-treated with palmitic acid compared to the control group (p<0.05). Conclusion: DHA and Insulin could alter the dynamic growth and dysfunctional activity of human endothelial cells after treatment with palmitic acid. Taken together, Omega 3 fatty acids, along with insulin, could dictate specific cell behavior in endothelial cells in vitro.
Efficacy and safety of treating symptomatic, primary focal osteochondral lesions of the patella with a combination of intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HAi) and radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) or HAi alone: A retrospective two-cohort study
Authors: Cao Jin , Huang Heqin , Zhang Changgui , Yang Liu , Schmitz Christoph , Duan Xiaojun
Published: August 2020

Background: This study tested the hypothesis that a combination of intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HAi) and radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) is more effective than HAi alone in the treatment of symptomatic, primary focal osteochondral lesions of the patella (sPFOLP).Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of n=81 subjects with unilateral sPFOLP who were treated with respectively HAi+rESWT (n=36) or HAi alone (n=45) at the outpatient department of our hospital between January 1st, 2014 and January 31th, 2018. Subjects in both cohorts also received education with special attention to reduction of going up and down the stairs, squatting and specific activities, as well as non-opioid analgesics if necessary. Efficacy was assessed using the pain visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score, which were examined at baseline (BL) and six weeks (W6), three months (M3) and six months (M6) after BL, as well as during a last follow-up examination (LE) which was performed at 37.6 ± 1.7 (mean ± standard error of the mean) months after BL (range, 12-59 months). In addition, measurements of the area of the patellar bone marrow edema (PBME) on sagittal, fat suppression sequence magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the knee were performed at BL, M3, M6 and LE. Results: Subjects who were treated with HAi+rESWT showed significantly smaller mean VAS pain scores at W6, M3 and M6, significantly smaller mean WOMAC scores at W6, M3 and LE and significantly smaller mean PBME areas at M3, M6 and LE than subjects who were treated with HAi alone. No severe adverse events were observed.Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that HAi+rESWT is safe and more effective than HAi alone in the treatment of sPFOLP. This result should be verified in adequate randomized controlled trials. Level of Evidence: Level III; retrospective two-cohort study.
Prevalence and Force of Plasmodium Vivax and Plasmodium Falciparum Blood Stage Infection and Associated Clinical Malaria Burden in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Monteiro Wuelton , Karl Stephan , Kuehn Andrea Kuehn , Almeida Anne , White Michael , Vitor-Silva Sheila Vitor-Silva , Melo Gisely , Baia Djane , Brito-Sousa Jose Diego , Bassat Quique , Felger Ingrid , Mueller Ivo , Lacerda Marcus
Published: August 2020

Background: Plasmodium vivax and Plamodium falciparum are co-endemic in much of the Brazilian Amazon, with P. vivax comprising greater than 80% of clinical cases, especially in low transmission settings. The molecular force of blood-stage infection of P. vivax (molFOB) can provide a detailed picture of P. vivax transmission in low transmission settings and help improve malaria measures control and elimination efforts. Methodology: Monthly samples were collected in a cohort of 1,274 individuals of all ages between April 2013 and March 2014 in three peri-urban communities in the Brazilian Amazon. Regression analyses were used to test how factors including age and community were associated with P. vivax molFOB, parasite positivity and clinical episodes. Principal Findings: Respectively, 77.8% and 97.2% of the population remained free of P. vivax and P. falciparum infection. Expected heterozygosity for P. vivax was 0.69 for MSP1_F3 and 0.86 for MS2. Multiplicity of infection in P. vivax was close to the value of 1 as determined with both markers (1.06 for MSP1_F3 and 1.04 for MS2). Season was associated with P. vivax positivity [adjusted hazard ration (aHR) 2.6 (1.9-5.7)] and clinical disease [aHR 10.6 (2.4-47.2)]. P. falciparum infection was associated with previous malarial episodes [HR 9.7 (4.5-20.9)]. Subjects who reported bednet possession [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.6 (1.2-2.2)] or previous malaria episodes [IRR 3.0 (2.0-4.5)] were found to have significantly higher P. vivax molFOB.Conclusions: Overall, P. vivax infection prevailed in the area and infections were mostly observed as monoclonal. High proportions of symptomatic and submicroscopic infections were found. Previous malaria episodes were associated with significantly higher P. vivax molFOB, likely indicating that effective radical cure is an important strategy to be addressed in these endemic communities.
Activity of Some Plant and Fungal Metabolites Towards Aedes Albopictus (Diptera, Culicidae)
Authors: Ganassi Sonia , Masi Marco , Grazioso Pasqualina , Evidente Antonio , De Cristofaro Antonio
Published: August 2020

Background: Aedes albopictus (Skuse), a globally spread species, vector of important human arboviruses, and of Zika virus, is extremely difficult to control even for the onset of resistances to chemicals insecticides. Ecofriendly biopesticides for vector control are urgently needed. In this study, the activity of some plant metabolites as Amaryllidaceae alkaloids and some their semisynthetic derivatives and 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinones, and two analogues, and of the fungal metabolites cyclopaldic acid and epi-epoformin on the development and survival of Ae. albopictus larvae was evaluated. Methods: A preliminary screening, on first-instar larvae, with lycorine semisynthetic derivatives and cyclopaldic acid at 100 ppm was conducted. The living larvae were recorded 24 and 48 h post treatment. Based on the results, first-instar larvae were exposed to increasing doses of the compounds tested until adult emergence. The mean larval and pupal duration was calculated. Third instar larvae were exposed to increasing doses of naphthoquinones for 72 h. The mortality rates were recorded every 24. The larvicide Device® SC-15 was used as control.Results: First instar larval exposure to cyclopaldic acid at 50 and 100 ppm for 48 h, resulted in mortality mean percentage of 82.444 and 96.889% respectively; LC50 and LC90 were 40.119 and 105.092 ppm. 1,2-O,O-diacetyllycorine at 50 ppm, 48h post-treatment caused 84.667% mean percentage mortality with LC50 27.769 and LC90 88.316 ppm. Significant differences in the larval and pupal duration were proved when larvae were exposed to cyclopaldic acid (H=16.386; df 4; P=0.003; H=31.835; df 4; P=0.000), 1,2-O,O-diacetyllycorine (H=9.044; df 3; P=0.029; H=18.115; df 3; P=0.000) and N-methyllycorine iodide (H=19.457; df 4; P=0.001; H=15.400; df 4; P=0.004).Statistical analyses revealed that the number of third-instar larvae surviving to naphthoquinones significantly decreases over the time when exposed to 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone 12.5, 25, 50 ppm; 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone 12.5, 25 ppm, 2-metoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone 50 ppm. The mean number of surviving larvae exposed to: 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone 12.5, 25, 50, 100 ppm, 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone 25, 50, 100 ppm, 2-metoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone 50, 100 ppm was significantly lower than the number of correspondent control larvae, respectively.Conclusions: This study indicated that 1,2-O,O’-diacetyllycorine, N-methyllycorine iodide, cyclopaldic acid and 1,4-naphtoquinone structural derivatives have good potential to develop bioinsecticides for mosquito control programs.
Respiratory Health Upshots due to Contaminated Living Environment: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Industrial Belt of Kanpur City, India
Authors: Puri Parul , Singh Shri Kant
Published: August 2020

In recent decades, air pollution has become a real threat to the lives and health of populations around the world. Today, about 92% of the world’s population lives in areas with low air quality standards. In India, in particular, air pollution is one of the main causes of respiratory and allergic diseases, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, and even tuberculosis. The purpose of this study is to analyze the extent of the spread of respiratory diseases in people living near the leather manufacturing industry in Jammu, Kanpur, India. The source of information is a cross-sectoral survey of male workers from the Jammu area, for which a three-stage sampling model is used. The study area selected areas of Bujiat, Motinagar, and Asharfabad because of the high concentration of the population employed in leather processing plants. During the study, the authors used one- and two-dimensional statistics. The study showed that there are no major benefits of civilization in the study areas: housing, water, hygiene and sanitation, waste treatment, etc. In the last 12 months, it was found that 11% of the population in the aforementioned territory experienced symptoms such as wheezing or wheezing at any time of the day, ie permanently, and another 9% of the population were waking up from chest tightness in the previous 12 months. During the survey period, 10% of the respondents had coughing sputum at least three months before the day or night. The rapid spread of various respiratory diseases may be associated with higher levels of air pollution. The article presents the recommendations of the authors on adherence to the principles of fair industrial activity within the framework of corporate social responsibility and the promotion of sustainable development of territories. Keywords: living environment, morbidity, respiratory health, workers.
Parent-Child Relationship Cases Before the ECtHR
Authors: Rajska Dagmara,
Published: August 2020

This paper summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion on the issue of choosing between Article 6 (Right to a fair trial) or/and Article 8 (Right to family life) of the European Convention on Human Rights (hereafter ‘ECHR’) when being applied by the European Court of Human Rights (hereafter ‘ECtHR’) in parent-child relationship cases. The main purpose of this research is to understand these provisions and their interplay. There is no particular systematization of literary sources and approaches for solving this problem because it is new. The analysis of applications lodged before the ECtHR indicates that the applicants usually raise both provisions for the reason of procedural safety. What is the response of the ECtHR? The investigation in this paper concerning the topic ‘what is protected by which provision, and is there any pattern in the application of Articles 6 and 8 in cases involving both provisions?’ is carried out in the following logical sequence: Relevant legal framework (Section 2); Research interest and question (Section 3); Research methodology (Section 4); Parental authority, custody, and access/contact, regarding cases respectively involving Articles 6 and 8 ECHR (Section 5). The methodological tool of the research method was the ECtHR Hudoc database. The object of the research is the ECtHR, because, namely, this institution interprets Article 6 and Article 8 of the ECHR. The paper presents the results of an empirical analysis of 212 judgments delivered by the ECtHR during the last twenty years. These showed that, with regard to the interplay between Articles 6 and 8 ECHR, there are some trends in its case-law which give guidance to the applicants, the judges and other practitioners concerned, as well as to scholars. The results of the research can be useful in efficiently analyzing, applying, defending, and adjudicating these rights. Keywords: right to a fair trial, right to family life, parental authority, parental care, access/contact, European Convention on Human Rights.
Bangladesh’s Claim for Reparation from Myanmar due to Rohingya Influx: Options and Challenges
Authors: Ali Md. Ayub
Published: August 2020

The article summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific debate on the application of the principles and practices of international law to assess the compensation of a State’s damage as a result of the illegal acts and/or inaction of another State. The main purpose of the study is to analyze the causes of the crisis against the Rohingya ethnic group and to assess its likely devastating effects on Bangladesh. The systematization of literary sources and approaches to the settlement of international disputes of this kind indicate that in practice there are two approaches that can be used to file and pursue a claim for redress for Myanmar. The urgency of solving this scientific problem is that, as a neighboring country, Bangladesh has faced the need to resolve the issue of refugees from the region and accordingly takes an active part in resolving this protracted conflict caused by Myanmar’s actions against the Rohingya ethnic group, the persecuted ethnic minority in the world. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the unlawful and brutal actions of the Myanmar army have forced more than a million Rohingya refugees to flee their homes and migrate to Bangladesh, causing enormous negative effects on its economy, the environment and the rule of law. The study confirms that, under international law, Bangladesh has the right to sue Myanmar for unfair and cruel oppression of Rohingya rights. During the course of the study, the author has used such sources as periodicals, UN reports, and documents from Rohingya human rights organizations. The principles of international law on state liability are used as a methodological tool for assessing Myanmar’s liability. The results of the study may be useful for policymakers exploring the strategy of addressing the challenges of Myanmar’s compensation claims, as well as for international organizations that are addressing the Rohingya crisis.

Keywords: cruelty, international wrongdoing, imperative norm, compensation, state responsibility, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Rohingya national migration, refugee rights, ethnic minorities, damages lawsuit.
Socio-Economic Analysis of Effectiveness of Implementation of an Employment Guarantee Scheme at Local Level: A Study of a Village in India
Authors: Mahapatra Sanjeet , Pandey Anand , Narayanan Badri
Published: August 2020

The main purpose of the study is to develop theoretical and practical principles for analyzing the economic efficiency of the program to guarantee employment in rural areas in India. This program of support and active promotion of employment of the rural population is the result of the adoption of the Law on Guarantees of Employment in Rural Areas. The relevance of the choice of this scientific problem is that most scientific papers focus on assessing the effectiveness of the implementation of this legal act at the macro level, while the article analyzes this issue at the level of a particular locality. The object of the study was the village of Sanatpur in Uttar Pradesh, India. The study conducted a survey of participants in the program to guarantee employment in this rural area, which served as a basis for primary data, as well as used official statistics on the implementation of this program in the country. Descriptive statistics methods were used to analyze the effectiveness of the program to guarantee employment in rural areas. The article analyzes the mechanism of implementation of the program to guarantee employment in rural areas, namely the peculiarities of job creation in rural areas, the formation of wage policy, as well as the payment of wages to local residents. The field study identified key difficulties in implementing the above program: insufficient awareness of villagers about the opportunities and benefits of participating in the approved employment support program, as well as low access to basic financial services and lack of almost 70% of the rural population individual bank accounts. The results of the study can be useful for local and national governments in the field of social protection and social security.

Keywords: decentralized planning, wage payment, job guarantee.
The Connexus of Management by Objectives and Organisational Performance: Evidence from Tuyil Pharmaceutical Limited, Ilorin
Authors: Brimah Bolatito Amudat , Bamidel Ayodeji Gbenga , Rabiu Rukayat Oloruntoyin , John Iliya Senchi
Published: August 2020

In modern conditions, the competitiveness of enterprises largely depends on the ability of management to ensure the necessary economic efficiency of operational activities, achieving strategic and tactical goals, rational use of labor, financial and material resources, which determines the relevance of research on innovative approaches to management “my goals”. The article substantiates that this concept is focused on increasing productivity through clear guidelines for each employee of the organization and increase staff motivation through its participation in setting their own goals. The main purpose of the study is to examine the relationship between the practical use of the method of “goal management” in the company and its organizational effectiveness. The object of the study was selected pharmaceutical company “Tuyil” (Ilorin, Nigeria) and its staff with a representative sample of 242 people. The source of the primary information in this study was the results of a survey of company employees. The analysis of the survey results was performed using the methods of descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA). It is empirically confirmed and theoretically proved that the practical application of the principles of “goal management” is closely correlated with the efficiency of the company. The results of the study provide recommendations for improving the system of “goal management” in the company, namely: the creation of favorable internal relations among employees, which would guarantee their commitment and loyalty to the organizational goals and objectives of the company; Establishing feedback, which involves constant monitoring of the achievement of goals and determining their progress in the implementation of specific tasks, as well as bringing to the management of those unplanned problems that arise in the process of achieving goals.

Keywords: goal commitment, performance feedback, task complexity, organization, Nigeria.