bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transmission patterns of COVID-19 in the mainland of China and the efficacy of different control strategies: a data- and model-driven study
Authors: Zu Jian , Li Miao-Lei , Li Zong-Fang , Shen Ming-Wang , Xiao Yan-Ni , Ji Fan-Pu 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has seriously endangered the health and lives of Chinese people. In this study, we predicted the COVID-19 epidemic trend and estimated the efficacy of several intervention strategies in the mainland of China.

Methods
According to the COVID-19 epidemic status, we constructed a compartmental model. Based on reported data from the National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China during January 10–February 17, 2020, we estimated the model parameters. We then predicted the epidemic trend and transmission risk of COVID-19. Using a sensitivity analysis method, we estimated the efficacy of several intervention strategies.

Results
The cumulative number of confirmed cases in the mainland of China will be 86 763 (95% CI: 86 067–87 460) on May 2, 2020. Up until March 15, 2020, the case fatality rate increased to 6.42% (95% CI: 6.16–6.68%). On February 23, 2020, the existing confirmed cases reached its peak, with 60 890 cases (95% CI: 60 350–61 431). On January 23, 2020, the effective reproduction number was 2.620 (95% CI: 2.567–2.676) and had dropped below 1.0 since February 5, 2020. Due to governmental intervention, the total number of confirmed cases was reduced by 99.85% on May 2, 2020. Had the isolation been relaxed from February 24, 2020, there might have been a second peak of infection. However, relaxing the isolation after March 16, 2020 greatly reduced the number of existing confirmed cases and deaths. The total number of confirmed cases and deaths would increase by 8.72 and 9.44%, respectively, due to a 1-day delayed diagnosis in non-isolated infected patients. Moreover, if the coverage of close contact tracing was increased to 100%, the cumulative number of confirmed cases would be decreased by 88.26% on May 2, 2020.

Conclusions
The quarantine measures adopted by the Chinese government since January 23, 2020 were necessary and effective. Postponing the relaxation of isolation, early diagnosis, patient isolation, broad close-contact tracing, and strict monitoring of infected persons could effectively control the COVID-19 epidemic. April 1, 2020 would be a reasonable date to lift quarantine in Hubei and Wuhan.
Utilization and predictors of long acting reversible contraceptive methods among reproductive age women in Hawassa city, South Ethiopia: a community based mixed methods
Authors: Tilahun Aklilu , Yoseph Amanuel , Dangisso Mesay Hailu 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Long acting reversible contraceptive methods are highly effective, safe and provide uninterrupted protection to women for 3 to 12 years, yet are little used in the Ethiopia. Assessment of the utilization and predictors of long acting reversible contraceptive methods assist health planners to prioritize promotion strategies, and is a fundamental step for intervention. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the utilization and predictors of long acting reversible contraceptives among reproductive age women in Hawassa city, South Ethiopia; 2019.

Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a mixed method among the sample of 660 reproductive age women in Hawassa city, South Ethiopia from January 1–30, 2019. We have used a systematic and purposive sampling technique to select the study participants. A structured interview-administrated questionnaire and focus group discussion were used to collect the data. The data were entered using Epi data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Chi-square (X2) test was used to determine the overall association between explanatory and outcome variables. The variables were entered into the multivariable model using the backward stepwise regression approach. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. The qualitative data were analyzed using a manual thematic analysis technique.

Results
The overall utilization of long acting reversible contraceptive methods was 22% (95% CI = 19.50–25.50%). Among this, 17.5 and 4.5% of women utilized the implants and IUCD, respectively. Good knowledge (AOR = 4.0; 95% CI = 1.66–9.60; P = 0.001) and positive attitude (AOR = 7.9; 95% CI = 3.84–16.10; P = 0.001) of women about LARC methods were positively associated with utilization of LARC methods. The odds of utilizing LARC methods increased 8.2 times for women who have no desire to have a child (AOR = 8.2, 95% CI = 3.13–21.30) as compared to those who have the desire to have a child. The discussion of women about LARC methods with providers (AOR = 4.1; 95% CI = 1.24–5.24) and husbands (AOR = 2.7; 95% CI =1.02–7.20) were positively associated with utilization of LARC methods. These findings were supported by the individual, institutional and socio-cultural qualitative findings.

Conclusions
The utilization of LARC methods far below the national target (22 V 40%) in the study area. Good knowledge and positive attitude about LARC methods, no desire to have a child, discussion with husbands and providers were major predictors of the LARC methods utilization. Increasing knowledge and positive attitude of the women about LARC methods using various methods of health education should be considered.
Changes of fat-mass and obesity-associated protein expression in the hippocampus in animal models of high-fat diet-induced obesity and D-galactose-induced aging
Authors: Kang Min Soo , Kim Woosuk , Kim Tae Hyeong , Jung Hyo Young , Kwon Hyun Jung , Kim Dae Won , Hwang In Koo , Choi Jung Hoon 
Published: July 2020

AbstractFat-mass and obesity-associated protein (Fto) is highly expressed in the brain including, the hippocampus, and its expression is significantly decreased in the brain of Alzheimer’s disease patients. In the present study, we measured Fto immunoreactivity and protein levels in the hippocampus of obese and aged mice, which were induced by high-fat diet for 12 weeks and D-galactose treatment for 10 weeks, respectively. The obesity and aging phenotypes were assessed by physiological parameters and Morris water maze test, respectively. High fat diet fed mice showed significant increases in body weight and blood glucose levels compared to that in the control or D-galactose-induced aged mice. In addition, treatment with D-galactose significantly decreased the spatial memory. Fto immunoreactivity in the control group was mainly detected in the pyramidal cells of the CA1 and CA3 regions and in the granule cells of the dentate gyrus. In the hippocampus of high-fat diet-fed mice, Fto immunoreactive structures were similarly found in the hippocampus compared to that in the control group, but Fto immunoreactivity in high-fat diet-fed mice was also found in the stratum oriens and radiatum of the CA1 and CA3 regions and the polymorphic layer of the dentate gyrus. In the hippocampus of D-galactose-induced aged mice, fewer Fto immunoreactive structures were detected in the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus compared to the control group. Fto mRNA and protein levels based on quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot assays were slightly increased in the hippocampus of high-fat diet-fed mice compared to that in control mice. In addition, Fto mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased in the aged hippocampus compared to that in the control group. Fto protein levels are susceptible to the aging process, but not in the hippocampus of high-fat diet-induced obesity. The reduction of Fto in aged mice may be associated with reduced memory impairment in mice.
Comparison of clinical outcomes following 2 years of treatment of first-episode psychosis in urban early intervention services in Canada and India
Authors: Malla Ashok , Iyer Srividya N. , Rangaswamy Thara , Ramachandran Padmavati , Mohan Greeshma , Taksal Aarati , Margolese Howard C. , Schmitz Norbert , Joober Ridha 
Published: July 2020

BackgroundPurported superior outcomes for treatment of psychosis in low- and middle-income (LMICs) compared with high-income (HICs) countries have not been examined in the context of early intervention services (EIS).AimsTo compare 2-year clinical outcomes in first-episode psychosis (FEP) treated in EIS in Chennai (LMIC) and Montreal (HIC) using a similar EIS treatment protocol and to identify factors associated with any outcome differences.MethodPatients with FEP treated in EIS in Chennai (n = 168) and Montreal (n = 165) were compared on change in level of symptoms and rate and duration of positive and negative symptom remission over a 2-year period. Repeated-measures analysis of variance, and logistic and linear regression analyses were conducted.ResultsFour patients died in Chennai compared with none in Montreal. Family support was higher for Chennai patients (F = 14.05, d.f. = 1, P < 0.001, ƞp2 = 0.061) and increased over time at both sites (F = 7.0, d.f. = 1.915, P < 0.001, ƞp2 = 0.03). Negative symptom outcomes were significantly better in Chennai for level of symptoms (time × site interaction F = 7.36, d.f. = 1.49, P = 0.002, ƞp2 = 0.03), duration of remission (mean 16.1 v. 9.78 months, t = −7.35, d.f. = 331, P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.80) and the proportion of patients in remission (81.5% v. 60.3%, χ2 = 16.12, d.f. = 1, P < 0.001). The site differences in outcome remained robust after adjusting for inter-site differences in other characteristics. Early remission and family support facilitated better outcome on negative symptoms. No significant differences were observed in positive symptom outcomes.ConclusionsPatients with FEP treated in EIS in LMIC contexts are likely to show better outcome on negative symptoms compared with those in HIC contexts. Early remission and family support may benefit patients across both contexts.
Frailty in Patients With Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion is Higher Than in Patients with Nonfunctioning Adrenal Tumors
Authors: Singh Sumitabh , Atkinson Elizabeth J , Achenbach Sara J , LeBrasseur Nathan , Bancos Irina 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Context
Mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) affects up to 50% of patients with adrenal adenomas. Frailty is a syndrome characterized by the loss of physiological reserves and an increase in vulnerability, and it serves as a marker of declining health.

Objective
To compare frailty in patients with MACS versus patients with nonfunctioning adrenal tumors (NFAT).

Design
Retrospective study, 2003-2018

Setting
Referral center

Patients
Patients &gt;20 years of age with adrenal adenoma and MACS (1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression (DST) of 1.9-5 µg/dL) and NFAT (DST &lt;1.9 µg/dL).

Main outcome measure
Frailty index (range 0-1), calculated using a 47-variable deficit model.

Results
Patients with MACS (n = 168) demonstrated a higher age-, sex-, and body mass index–adjusted prevalence of hypertension (71% vs 60%), cardiac arrhythmias (50% vs 40%), and chronic kidney disease (25% vs 17%), but a lower prevalence of asthma (5% vs 14%) than patients with NFAT (n = 275). Patients with MACS reported more symptoms of weakness (21% vs 11%), falls (7% vs 2%), and sleep difficulty (26% vs 15%) as compared with NFAT. Age-, sex- and BMI-adjusted frailty index was higher in patients with MACS vs patients with NFAT (0.17 vs 0.15; P = 0.009). Using a frailty index cutoff of 0.25, 24% of patients with MACS were frail, versus 18% of patients with NFAT (P = 0.028).

Conclusion
Patients with MACS exhibit a greater burden of comorbid conditions, adverse symptoms, and frailty than patients with NFAT. Future prospective studies are needed to further characterize frailty, examine its responsiveness to adrenalectomy, and assess its influence on health outcomes in patients with MACS.
Expression inEscherichia Coli, Purification, and Functional Reconstitution of Human Steroid 5α-Reductases
Authors: Peng Hwei-Ming , Valentín-Goyco Juan , Im Sang-Choul , Han Bing , Liu Jiayan , Qiao Jie , Auchus Richard J 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThe potent androgen 5α-dihydrotestosterone irreversibly derives from testosterone via the activity of steroid 5α-reductases (5αRs). The major 5αR isoforms in most species, 5αR1 and 5αR2, have not been purified to homogeneity. We report here the heterologous expression of polyhistidine-tagged, codon-optimized human 5αR1 and 5αR2 cDNAs in Escherichia coli. A combination of the nonionic detergents Triton X-100 and Nonidet P-40 enabled solubilization of these extremely hydrophobic integral membrane proteins and facilitated purification with affinity and cation-exchange chromatography methods. For functional reconstitution, we incorporated the purified isoenzymes into Triton X-100-saturated dioleoylphosphatidylcholine liposomes and removed excess detergent with polystyrene beads. Kinetic studies indicated that the 2 isozymes differ in biochemical properties, with 5αR2 having a lower apparent Km for testosterone, androstenedione, progesterone, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone than 5αR1; however, 5αR1 had a greater capacity for steroid conversion, as reflected by a higher Vmax than 5αR2. Both enzymes preferred progesterone as substrate over other steroids, and the catalytic efficiency of purified reconstituted 5αR2 exhibited a sharp pH optimum at pH 5. Intriguingly, we found that the prostate-cancer drug-metabolite 3-keto-∆ 4-abiraterone is metabolized by 5αR1 but not 5αR2, which may serve as a structural basis for isoform selectivity and inhibitor design. The functional characterization results with the purified reconstituted isoenzymes paralleled trends obtained with HEK-293 cell lines stably expressing native 5αR1 and 5αR2. Access to purified human 5αR1 and 5αR2 will advance studies of these important enzymes and might help to clarify their contributions to steroid anabolism and catabolism.
Caenorhabditis elegans Flamingo FMI-1 controls dendrite self-avoidance through F-actin assembly
Authors: Hsu Hao-Wei , Liao Chien-Po , Chiang Yueh-Chen , Syu Ru-Ting , Pan Chun-Liang 
Published: July 2020

ABSTRACT
Self-avoidance is a conserved mechanism that prevents crossover between sister dendrites from the same neuron, ensuring proper functioning of the neuronal circuits. Several adhesion molecules are known to be important for dendrite self-avoidance, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are incompletely defined. Here, we show that FMI-1/Flamingo, an atypical cadherin, is required autonomously for self-avoidance in the multidendritic PVD neuron of Caenorhabditis elegans. The fmi-1 mutant shows increased crossover between sister PVD dendrites. Our genetic analysis suggests that FMI-1 promotes transient F-actin assembly at the tips of contacting sister dendrites to facilitate their efficient retraction during self-avoidance events, probably by interacting with WSP-1/N-WASP. Mutations of vang-1, which encodes the planar cell polarity protein Vangl2 previously shown to inhibit F-actin assembly, suppress self-avoidance defects of the fmi-1 mutant. FMI-1 downregulates VANG-1 levels probably through forming protein complexes. Our study identifies molecular links between Flamingo and the F-actin cytoskeleton that facilitate efficient dendrite self-avoidance.
Cell type- and stage-specific expression of Otx2 is regulated by multiple transcription factors and cis-regulatory modules in the retina
Authors: Chan Candace S. Y. , Lonfat Nicolas , Zhao Rong , Davis Alexander E. , Li Liang , Wu Man-Ru , Lin Cheng-Hui , Ji Zhe , Cepko Constance L. , Wang Sui 
Published: July 2020

ABSTRACT
Transcription factors (TFs) are often used repeatedly during development and homeostasis to control distinct processes in the same and/or different cellular contexts. Considering the limited number of TFs in the genome and the tremendous number of events that need to be regulated, re-use of TFs is necessary. We analyzed how the expression of the homeobox TF, orthodenticle homeobox 2 (Otx2), is regulated in a cell type- and stage-specific manner during development in the mouse retina. We identified seven Otx2 cis-regulatory modules (CRMs), among which the O5, O7 and O9 CRMs mark three distinct cellular contexts of Otx2 expression. We discovered that Otx2, Crx and Sox2, which are well-known TFs regulating retinal development, bind to and activate the O5, O7 or O9 CRMs, respectively. The chromatin status of these three CRMs was found to be distinct in vivo in different retinal cell types and at different stages. We conclude that retinal cells use a cohort of TFs with different expression patterns and multiple CRMs with different chromatin configurations to regulate the expression of Otx2 precisely.
Reductive Functionalization of Carboxamides: A Recent Update
Authors: Ong Derek Yiren , Chen Jia-hua , Chiba Shunsuke 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Carboxamides including lactams are readily available and bench-stable chemical feedstock, and thus their use in chemical synthesis for production of valuable compounds would be an attractive choice in various synthetic endeavors. This review highlights and discusses recent advances on deoxygenative reductive functionalization of carboxamides for the synthesis of α-branched amines, that is initiated by controlled single hydride delivery to the amide carbonyl group and terminated by downstream functionalization of the iminium intermediates. The protocols are categorized based on the types of the reduction processes including those with aluminum hydrides, the Schwartz's reagent, transition metal-catalyzed/mediated hydrosilylation, and sodium hydride-iodide composite.
Saving lives
Authors: Jevon Phil 
Published: July 2020

Phil Jevon considers the safe use of oxygen in the dental practice Aim The aim of this article is to understand the safe use of oxygen in the dental practice. Objectives To discuss the recent MHRA alert about the incorrect use of portable oxygen cylinders To describe the routine checking and maintenance of oxygen cylinders To outline the procedure for ensure oxygen flow from a cylinder GDC development outcome C
Developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Zhang Stella , Doudoulakis Konstantinos J , Khurwal Anita , Sarraf Khaled M 
Published: July 2020

Developmental dysplasia of the hip encompasses a range of hip abnormalities in which the femoral head and acetabulum fail to develop and articulate anatomically. Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a clinically important condition, with a prevalence of 1–2/1000 in unscreened populations and 5–30/1000 in clinically screened populations. The pathology is incongruence between the femoral head and the acetabulum, which can be caused by an abnormally shaped femoral head, acetabulum, or both. This results in a spectrum of different hip abnormalities. The precise aetiology behind developmental dysplasia of the hip is unclear, but there are a number of established risk factors. In the UK, universal clinical examination of newborns and 6–8-week-old babies is performed under the national UK newborn screening programme for developmental dysplasia of the hip (part of the Newborn and Infant Physical Examination). The physical examination of the newborn hip involves initial inspection of the infant for any of the clinical features of developmental dysplasia of the hip, followed by hip stability tests (Barlow's and Ortolani's tests). Hip ultrasound is the gold standard diagnostic and monitoring tool for developmental dysplasia of the hip in newborns and infants under 6 months of age, or until ossification of the femoral head. Some mild cases of developmental dysplasia of the hip (and the immature hip) resolve without requiring intervention; however, there are a number of treatments, both non-operative and operative, that may be used at various stages of this condition.
The internationalisation of family SMEs in the Valencian region: the growing role played by Latin America, 1980-2018
Authors: Vidal Olivares Javier , Saiz Candelaria , Torró Lluís , Zabalza Juan 
Published: July 2020

SME's and family businesses are central elements in Spain's modern economic growth. However, their process of internationalization has been little explored in recent research, particularly when it has been primarily aimed at emerging economies. The article aims to understand and explain the internationalisation process of SME's in the Valencian region in Latin America. Through a set of cases of companies from different sectors (Metal, Machinery, Chemical, Ceramics, Textile, Furniture) it is showed that since 1990, the different Latin American countries have been increasing their presence in the preferential markets of most of the 22 companies studied. The growing role of the region in the investments of Valencian SME's shows the diversification and expansion of destination markets, including geographically not only the traditional European or Arab countries but also those of Latin America. Different reasons underlie this internationalisation: but the enterprises analysed based on a case studies approach showed different models of expansion. The common denominator being that of strategies specifically developed and adapted to the destination country's local environment: from an incremental and gradual expansion.
Numerical model of an Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped seven-core fiber amplifier for a space division multiplexing system
Authors: Nassiri Ali , Boulezhar Abdelkader , Idrissi Saba H. 
Published: July 2020

Space division multiplexing (SDM) erbium-doped seven-core fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) are increasingly attracting interest due to their performances in improving capacity transmission systems. To increase the gain and improve the characteristics of the SDM seven-core fiber amplifier, this paper proposes the use of the erbium/ytterbium (

E
r

3
+

/

Y
b

3
+

) co-doped seven-core fiber amplifier. A theoretical model of the SDM co-doped seven-core fiber amplifier is developed. The presented results show that the proposed model allows us to obtain a peak gain over 60 dB at a wavelength of 1543 nm, a large bandwidth of 64 nm with a gain greater than 20 dB and with a minimum noise which is lower than 6 dB.
Electromyography as an intraoperative test to assess the quality of nerve anastomosis – experimental study on rats
Authors: Czapla Norbert , Bargiel Piotr , Petriczko Jan , Kotrych Daniel , Krajewski Piotr , Prowans Piotr 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Background
Many factors contribute to successful nerve reconstruction. The correct technique of anastomosis is one of the key elements that determine the final result of a surgery. The aim of this study is to examine how useful an electromyography (EMG) can be as an objective intraoperative anastomosis assessment method.

Methods
The study material included 12 rats. Before the surgery, the function of the sciatic nerve was tested using hind paw prints. Then, both nerves were cut. The left nerve was sutured side-to-side, and the right nerve was sutured end-to-end. Intraoperative electromyography was performed. After 4 weeks, the rats were reassessed using the hind paw print analysis and electromyography.

Results
An analysis of left and right hind paw prints did not reveal any significant differences between the length of the steps, the spread of the digits in the paws, or the deviation of a paw. The width of the steps also did not change.
Electromyography revealed that immediately after a nerve anastomosis (as well as 4 weeks after the surgery), better nerve conduction was observed through an end-to-end anastomosis. Four weeks after the surgery, better nerve conduction was seen distally to the end-to-end anastomosis.

Conclusions
The results indicate that in acute nerve injuries intraoperative electromyography may be useful to obtain unbiased information on whether the nerve anastomosis has been performed correctly – for example, in limb replantation.
When assessing a nerve during a procedure, EMG should be first performed distally to the anastomosis (the part of the nerve leading to muscle fibers) and then proximally to the anastomosis (the proximal part of the nerve). Similar EMG results can be interpreted as a correct nerve anastomosis.
The function of the distal part of the nerve and the muscle remains intact if the neuromuscular transmission is sustained.