bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical real-time MEG-based neural interfacing with optically pumped magnetometers
Authors: Wittevrongel Benjamin , Holmes Niall , Boto Elena , Hill Ryan , Rea Molly , Libert Arno , Khachatryan Elvira , Van Hulle Marc M. , Bowtell Richard , Brookes Matthew J.
Published: August 2021

Background

Brain-computer interfaces decode intentions directly from the human brain with the aim to restore lost functionality, control external devices or augment daily experiences. To combine optimal performance with wide applicability, high-quality brain signals should be captured non-invasively. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a potent candidate but currently requires costly and confining recording hardware. The recently developed optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) promise to overcome this limitation, but are currently untested in the context of neural interfacing.

Results

In this work, we show that OPM-MEG allows robust single-trial analysis which we exploited in a real-time ‘mind-spelling’ application yielding an average accuracy of 97.7%.

Conclusions

This shows that OPM-MEG can be used to exploit neuro-magnetic brain responses in a practical and flexible manner, and opens up new avenues for a wide range of new neural interface applications in the future.
A novel USH2A variant in a patient with hearing loss and prenatal diagnosis of a familial fetus: a case report
Authors: Zhou Cong , Xiao Yuanyuan , Xie Hanbing , Liu Shanling , Wang Jing
Published: August 2021

Background

Usher syndrome (USH) is the most common cause of inherited deaf-blindness. The current study aimed to identify pathogenic variants in a Chinese patient with hearing loss and to report the identification of a novel p.(Phe1583Leufs*10) variant in USH2A, which met the needs of prenatal diagnosis of the patient's mother.

Case presentation

Genomic DNA obtained from a five-year-old girl with hearing loss was analyzed via the hearing loss-targeted gene panels. We identified the compound heterozygous variants c.8559-2A>G and c.4749delT in Usher syndrome type 2A (USH2A) gene as the underlying cause of the patient; the former variation has been reported in the literature, but not the latter. The parents of the girl were heterozygous carriers. The two variants were classified as pathogenic. Based on these findings, amniotic fluid samples were used for prenatal diagnosis of the couple's fetus, which was found to carry c.4749delT but not c.8559-2A>G variation. During the follow-up period of more than 9 months after the birth of the fetus, it was confirmed that the infant was healthy.

Conclusions

The results of the present study identified two compound heterozygous USH2A variants in a patient with hearing loss and reported a novel USH2A variant which expands the spectrum of USH2A variants in USH.
CAPTURE: a multinational, cross-sectional study of cardiovascular disease prevalence in adults with type 2 diabetes across 13 countries
Authors: Mosenzon Ofri , Alguwaihes Abdullah , Leon Jose Luis Arenas , Bayram Fahri , Darmon Patrice , Davis Timothy M. E. , Dieuzeide Guillermo , Eriksen Kirsten T. , Hong Tianpei , Kaltoft Margit S. , Lengyel Csaba , Rhee Nicolai A. , Russo Giuseppina T. , Shirabe Shinichiro , Urbancova Katerina , Vencio Sergio ,   the CAPTURE Study Investigators
Published: August 2021

Background

There is a paucity of global data on cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevalence in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The primary objective of the CAPTURE study was to estimate the prevalence of established CVD and its management in adults with T2D across 13 countries from five continents. Additional objectives were to further characterize the study sample regarding demographics, clinical parameters and medication usage, with particular reference to blood glucose-lowering agents (GLAs: glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors) with demonstrated cardiovascular benefit in randomized intervention trials.

Methods

Data were collected from adults with T2D managed in primary or specialist care in Australia, China, Japan, Czech Republic, France, Hungary, Italy, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Israel, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Turkey in 2019, using standardized methodology. CVD prevalence, weighted by diabetes prevalence in each country, was estimated for the overall CAPTURE sample and participating countries. Country-specific odds ratios for CVD prevalence were further adjusted for relevant demographic and clinical parameters.

Results

The overall CAPTURE sample included 9823 adults with T2D (n = 4502 from primary care; n = 5321 from specialist care). The overall CAPTURE sample had median (interquartile range) diabetes duration 10.7 years (5.6–17.9 years) and glycated hemoglobin 7.3% (6.6–8.4%) [56 mmol/mol (49–68 mmol/mol)]. Overall weighted CVD and atherosclerotic CVD prevalence estimates were 34.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 32.7–36.8) and 31.8% (95% CI 29.7–33.8%), respectively. Age, gender, and clinical parameters accounted for some of the between-country variation in CVD prevalence. GLAs with demonstrated cardiovascular benefit were used by 21.9% of participants, which was similar in participants with and without CVD: 21.5% and 22.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

In 2019, approximately one in three adults with T2D in CAPTURE had diagnosed CVD. The low use of GLAs with demonstrated cardiovascular benefit even in participants with established CVD suggested that most were not managed according to contemporary diabetes and cardiology guidelines.

Study registration NCT03786406 (registered on December 20, 2018), NCT03811288 (registered on January 18, 2019).
[6]-Paradol suppresses proliferation and metastases of pancreatic cancer by decreasing EGFR and inactivating PI3K/AKT signaling
Authors: Jiang Xueyi , Wang Jie , Chen Peng , He Zhiwei , Xu Jian , Chen Yankun , Liu Xinyuan , Jiang Jianxin
Published: August 2021

Background

The underlying mechanism behind the tumorigenesis and progression of pancreatic cancer is not clear, and treatment failure is generally caused by early metastasis, recurrence, drug resistance and vascular invasion. Exploring novel therapeutic regimens is necessary to overcome drug resistance and improve patients outcomes.

Methods

Functional assays were performed to investigate the role of [6]-Paradol (6-P) in proliferation and metastasis of pancreatic cancer in vitro and in vivo. The interaction between EGFR and 6-P was tested by KEGG enrichment analysis and molecular docking analysis. qRT-PCR was performed to detect the mRNA expression of EGFR in 6-P treated groups. Involvement of the PI3K/AKT pathway was measured by western blotting.

Results

6-P significantly suppressed pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and metastasis. KEGG enrichment analysis and molecular docking analysis suggested that there existed certain interaction between EGFR and 6-P. In addition, 6-P obviously decreased EGFR protein expression level but did not change the mRNA expression level of EGFR. 6-P could induce degradation of EGFR through decreasing the protein stability of EGFR and enhancing the ubiquitin-mediated proteasome-dependent degradation, 6-P-mediated EGFR degradation led to inactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. However, ectopic expression of EGFR protein resulted in resistance to 6-P-mediated inactivity of PI3K/AKT signaling and inhibition of malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer. Inversely, erlotinib could enhance the 6-P-mediated anticancer activity.

Conclusion

Our data indicated that 6-P/EGFR/PI3K/AKT signaling axis might become one of the potential therapies for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Bufalin induces mitochondrial dysfunction and promotes apoptosis of glioma cells by regulating Annexin A2 and DRP1 protein expression
Authors: Li Yao , Zhang Yan , Wang Xufang , Yang Qian , Zhou Xuanxuan , Wu Junsheng , Yang Xu , Zhao Yani , Lin Rui , Xie Yanhua , Yuan Jiani , Zheng Xiaohui , Wang Siwang
Published: August 2021

Background

Glioma is a common primary central nervous system tumour, and therapeutic drugs that can effectively improve the survival rate of patients in the clinic are lacking. Bufalin is effective in treating various tumours, but the mechanism by which it promotes the apoptosis of glioma cells is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the drug targets of bufalin in glioma cells and to clarify the apoptotic mechanism.

Methods

Cell viability and proliferation were evaluated by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Then, the cell cycle and apoptosis, intracellular ion homeostasis, oxidative stress levels and mitochondrial damage were assessed after bufalin treatment. DARTS-PAGE technology was employed and LC–MS/MS was performed to explore the drug targets of bufalin in U251 cells. Molecular docking and western blotting were performed to identify potential targets. siRNA targeting Annexin A2 and the DRP1 protein inhibitor Mdivi-1 were used to confirm the targets of bufalin.

Results

Bufalin upregulated the expression of cytochrome C, cleaved caspase 3, p-Chk1 and p-p53 proteins to induce U251 cell apoptosis and cycle arrest in the S phase. Bufalin also induced oxidative stress in U251 cells, destroyed intracellular ion homeostasis, and caused mitochondrial damage. The expression of mitochondrial division-/fusion-related proteins in U251 cells was abnormal, the Annexin A2 and DRP1 proteins were translocated from the cytoplasm to mitochondria, and the MFN2 protein was released from mitochondria into the cytoplasm after bufalin treatment, disrupting the mitochondrial division/fusion balance in U251 cells.

Conclusions

Our research indicated that bufalin can cause Annexin A2 and DRP1 oligomerization on the surface of mitochondria and disrupt the mitochondrial division/fusion balance to induce U251 cell apoptosis.

Graphic Abstract
Potential scalp stimulation targets for mental disorders: evidence from neuroimaging studies
Authors: Cao Jin , Chai-Zhang Thalia Celeste , Huang Yiting , Eshel Maya Nicole , Kong Jian
Published: August 2021

Mental disorders widely contribute to the modern global disease burden, creating a significant need for improvement of treatments. Scalp stimulation methods (such as scalp acupuncture and transcranial electrical stimulation) have shown promising results in relieving psychiatric symptoms. However, neuroimaging findings haven’t been well-integrated into scalp stimulation treatments. Identifying surface brain regions associated with mental disorders would expand target selection and the potential for these interventions as treatments for mental disorders. In this study, we performed large-scale meta-analyses separately on eight common mental disorders: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorder, autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, compulsive disorder, major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and schizophrenia; utilizing modern neuroimaging literature to summarize disorder-associated surface brain regions, and proposed neuroimaging-based target protocols. We found that the medial frontal gyrus, the supplementary motor area, and the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex are commonly involved in the pathophysiology of mental disorders. The target protocols we proposed may provide new brain targets for scalp stimulation in the treatment of mental disorders, and facilitate its clinical application.
INGOT-DR: an interpretable classifier for predicting drug resistance in M. tuberculosis
Authors: Zabeti Hooman , Dexter Nick , Safari Amir Hosein , Sedaghat Nafiseh , Libbrecht Maxwell , Chindelevitch Leonid
Published: August 2021

Motivation

Prediction of drug resistance and identification of its mechanisms in bacteria such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the etiological agent of tuberculosis, is a challenging problem. Solving this problem requires a transparent, accurate, and flexible predictive model. The methods currently used for this purpose rarely satisfy all of these criteria. On the one hand, approaches based on testing strains against a catalogue of previously identified mutations often yield poor predictive performance; on the other hand, machine learning techniques typically have higher predictive accuracy, but often lack interpretability and may learn patterns that produce accurate predictions for the wrong reasons. Current interpretable methods may either exhibit a lower accuracy or lack the flexibility needed to generalize them to previously unseen data.

Contribution

In this paper we propose a novel technique, inspired by group testing and Boolean compressed sensing, which yields highly accurate predictions, interpretable results, and is flexible enough to be optimized for various evaluation metrics at the same time.

Results

We test the predictive accuracy of our approach on five first-line and seven second-line antibiotics used for treating tuberculosis. We find that it has a higher or comparable accuracy to that of commonly used machine learning models, and is able to identify variants in genes with previously reported association to drug resistance. Our method is intrinsically interpretable, and can be customized for different evaluation metrics. Our implementation is available at github.com/hoomanzabeti/INGOT_DR and can be installed via The Python Package Index (Pypi) under ingotdr. This package is also compatible with most of the tools in the Scikit-learn machine learning library.
Intensive care doctors and nurses personal preferences for Intensive Care, as compared to the general population: a discrete choice experiment
Authors: Anstey Matthew H. , Mitchell Imogen A. , Corke Charlie , Murray Lauren , Mitchell Marion , Udy Andrew , Sarode Vineet , Nguyen Nhi , Flower Oliver , Ho Kwok M. , Litton Edward , Wibrow Bradley , Norman Richard
Published: August 2021

Background

To test the hypothesis that Intensive Care Unit (ICU) doctors and nurses differ in their personal preferences for treatment from the general population, and whether doctors and nurses make different choices when thinking about themselves, as compared to when they are treating a patient.

Methods

Cross sectional, observational study conducted in 13 ICUs in Australia in 2017 using a discrete choice experiment survey. Respondents completed a series of choice sets, based on hypothetical situations which varied in the severity or likelihood of: death, cognitive impairment, need for prolonged treatment, need for assistance with care or requiring residential care.

Results

A total of 980 ICU staff (233 doctors and 747 nurses) participated in the study. ICU staff place the highest value on avoiding ending up in a dependent state. The ICU staff were more likely to choose to discontinue therapy when the prognosis was worse, compared with the general population. There was consensus between ICU staff personal views and the treatment pathway likely to be followed in 69% of the choices considered by nurses and 70% of those faced by doctors. In 27% (1614/5945 responses) of the nurses and 23% of the doctors (435/1870 responses), they felt that aggressive treatment would be continued for the hypothetical patient but they would not want that for themselves.

Conclusion

The likelihood of returning to independence (or not requiring care assistance) was reported as the most important factor for ICU staff (and the general population) in deciding whether to receive ongoing treatments. Goals of care discussions should focus on this, over likelihood of survival.
SCAPTURE: a deep learning-embedded pipeline that captures polyadenylation information from 3′ tag-based RNA-seq of single cells
Authors: Li Guo-Wei , Nan Fang , Yuan Guo-Hua , Liu Chu-Xiao , Liu Xindong , Chen Ling-Ling , Tian Bin , Yang Li
Published: August 2021

Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) profiles gene expression with high resolution. Here, we develop a stepwise computational method-called SCAPTURE to identify, evaluate, and quantify cleavage and polyadenylation sites (PASs) from 3′ tag-based scRNA-seq. SCAPTURE detects PASs de novo in single cells with high sensitivity and accuracy, enabling detection of previously unannotated PASs. Quantified alternative PAS transcripts refine cell identity analysis beyond gene expression, enriching information extracted from scRNA-seq data. Using SCAPTURE, we show changes of PAS usage in PBMCs from infected versus healthy individuals at single-cell resolution.
Clinical value and role of microRNA-29c-3p in sepsis-induced inflammation and cardiac dysfunction
Authors: Zhang Bingyu , Yu Lin , Sheng Ying
Published: August 2021

Background

The goal of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value of miR-29c-3p in sepsis and its role in sepsis-induced inflammatory response and cardiac dysfunction.

Methods

Serum level of miR-29c-3p was detected by qRT-PCR. The ROC curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of miR-29c-3p for Sepsis. The cecal ligation and puncture method (CLP) was used to establish a rat sepsis model. To assess cardiac function, left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and maximum rate of rise/fall of left ventricle pressure (± dp/dtmax) in different experimental groups were detected, and the serum cardiac troponin I (cTnI), creative kinase isoenzyme MB (CK-MB) were measured by ELISA. Meanwhile, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were detected by ELISA to assess the level of inflammatory response in animals.

Results

miR-29c-3p level was upregulated in sepsis patients. ROC curve revealed that miR-29c-3p had the ability to distinguish sepsis patients from healthy controls. Cardiac dysfunction and inflammation were observed in sepsis rat, which were characterized by the decrease of LVSP and + dp/dtmax, the increase of LVEDP, − dp/dtmax, cTnI, CK-MB, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6. All effects were reversed by the injection of miR-29c-3p antagomir. Logistics regression analysis manifested miR-29c-3p is an independent factor in the occurrence of cardiac dysfunction in sepsis patients.

Conclusions

miR-29c-3p has potential as a biomarker for the diagnosis of sepsis, and inhibition of miR-29c-3p expression in animal models reduced sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction and inflammatory response.
Forest management required for consistent carbon sink in China’s forest plantations
Authors: Yu Zhen , You Weibin , Agathokleous Evgenios , Zhou Guoyi , Liu Shirong
Published: August 2021

Background

Forest is the largest biomass carbon (C) pool in China, taking up a substantial amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Although it is well understood that planted forests (PFs) act as a large C sink, the contribution of human management to C storage enhancement remains obscure. Moreover, existing projections of forest C dynamics suffer from spatially inconsistent age and type information or neglected human management impacts. In this study, using developed PF age and type maps and data collected from 1371 forest plantation sites in China, we simulated biomass C stock change and quantified management impacts for the time period 2010–2050.

Results

Results show that future forest biomass C increment might have been overestimated by 32.5%–107.5% in former studies. We also found that age-related growth will be by far the largest contributor to PF biomass C increment from 2010 to 2050 (1.23 ± 0.002 Pg C, 1 Pg = 1015 g = 1 billion metric tons), followed by the impact of human management (0.57 ± 0.02 Pg C), while the contribution of climate is slight (0.087 ± 0.04 Pg C). Besides, an additional 0.24 ± 0.07 Pg C can be stored if current PFs are all managed by 2050, resulting in a total increase of 2.13 ± 0.05 Pg C.

Conclusions

Forest management and age-related growth dominate the biomass C change in PFs, while the effect of climatic factors on the accumulation is minor. To achieve the ambitious goal of forest C stock enhancement by 3.5 Pg from 2020 to 2050, we advocate to improve the management of existing forests and reduce the requests for more lands for forest expansion, which helps mitigate potential conflicts with agricultural sectors. Our results highlight that appropriate planning and management are required for sustaining and enhancing biomass C sequestration in China’s PF.
A qualitative study on the impact of caring for an ambulatory individual with nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Williams Kate , Davidson Ian , Rance Mark , Buesch Katharina , Acaster Sarah
Published: August 2021

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic neuromuscular disorder, which can result in early death due to disease progression. Ataluren is indicated for the treatment of nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy, in ambulatory individuals aged two years and older. This study explored the impact of caring for an ambulatory individual with nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy, as well as the impact of treatment with ataluren on the caregiver experience, using retrospective recall.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted with caregivers in the UK. Interviews were conducted by telephone, were recorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and saturation was recorded.

Results

Ten interviews were conducted with parents of individuals aged 4–19 years. Caregivers reported proximal impacts (physical, emotional, time-related), and distal impacts (work, relationships, social life) of caring for their sons. The relationships between these impacts were illustrated in a conceptual model. Changes to the caregiver experience since initiation with their son’s treatment were discussed.

Conclusion

Caring for an ambulatory individual with nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy has a substantial multifaceted impact on caregivers. Treatments which have the potential to improve symptoms or delay progression, may also have a positive impact on the quality of life of caregivers.
Advanced image guidance for prostatic artery embolization – a multicenter technical note
Authors: Carnevale Francisco Cesar , McClure Timothy , Cadour Farah , Vidal Vincent , de Assis André Moreira , Moreira Airton Mota , Rocha Arthur Diego Dias , Rebet Aya , Nutting Charles
Published: August 2021

Background

Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is associated with patients’ quality of life improvements and limited side effects compared to surgery. However, this procedure remains technically challenging due to complex vasculature, anatomical variations and small arteries, inducing long procedure times and high radiation exposure levels both to patients and medical staff. Moreover, the risk of non-target embolization can lead to relevant complications. In this context, advanced imaging can constitute a solid ally to address these challenges and deliver good clinical outcomes at acceptable radiation levels.

Main text

This technical note aims to share the consolidated experience of four institutions detailing their optimized workflow using advanced image guidance, discussing variants, and sharing their best practices to reach a consensus standardized imaging workflow for PAE procedure, as well as pre and post-operative imaging.

Conclusions

This technical note puts forth a consensus optimized imaging workflow and best practices, with the hope of helping drive adoption of the procedure, deliver good clinical outcomes, and minimize radiation dose levels and contrast media injections while making PAE procedures shorter and safer.
The exchange of Musa spp. fibre in composite fabrication: a systematic review
Authors: Odera Raphael Stone , Okechukwu Onukwuli Dominic , Ezeh Ernest Mbamalu , Menkiti Mathew Chukwudi , Agu Peter Chinedu
Published: August 2021

Background

The areas of application of natural fibres have gained popularity in recent times due to their attractive advantages when compared with other materials of engineering. These advantages include lightness, cost-effectiveness, and ease of processing, ecological friendliness, and durability. Previously, farmers only harvestMusaspp. fruits for their food values and packaging purposes.

Main body of the abstract

Several research works have been undertaken which accentuate the applications of the assumed waste portions ofMusaspp. (banana and plantain) specificallyMusaspp. fibre as a reinforcement material in composite manufacture. As a material for reinforcement in composites, the characterization, treatment, and fabrication techniques; elemental, chemical, and mechanical properties ofMusaspp. fibre have been analysed. The mechanical properties of banana fibre reinforcement in polyester, epoxy, cement, and plastics composites were evaluated with those of other biodegradable fibres to explicate their relationships.

Short conclusion

This review aims to explore the current state of knowledge on the interaction of Musaspp. fibre in composite manufacture, to aid intending researchers with ample knowledge on the choice of material in bio-based composite design.
Cultural motives affecting tea purchase behavior under two usage situations in China: a study of renqing, mianzi, collectivism, and man-nature unity culture
Authors: Tong Lingyun , Toppinen Anne , Wang Lei
Published: August 2021

Tea should be perceived more as a cultural product than a fast-moving consumer good with its roots deep in different cultures across nations. Nevertheless, consumer demands on tea have not been explored sufficiently from a cultural perspective. This research aims to examine motives that are driving Chinese tea consumption on two usage occasions, under the influence of the Chineserenqing,mianzi, collectivism, and man-nature unity culture. Linkage was established between Chinese culture and consumer motives. The factor analysis on 280 respondents identified five consumer psychological motives. Further logistic regression analysis suggested consumer motives and usage situations were related. The contribution of the findings is summarized. On one hand, this study adds to the limited understandings on consumer motives of tea in an emerging country from the cultural aspect. On the other hand, deep understandings of brand chasing, sustainability, and pragmatism motives should businesses to better serve consumers.
A genetic variant of the NAMPT gene rs4730153 as a risk factor for the metabolic syndrome in younger age: a single-centre pilot study in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Puspasari Anggelia , Hastuti Pramudji , Sadewa Ahmad Hamim , Mus Rosdiana , Maharani Citra , Setyawati Ika
Published: August 2021

Background

The genetic variation ofnicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase(NAMPT) gene rs4730153 is reported to be associated with cardiometabolic risk, but the results are inconsistent between populations. Ethnicity, metabolic risk and lifestyle play a role in the association of the genetic variant and the metabolic syndrome (MetS). To the best of our knowledge, no research has yet been published concerning the Javanese population, so this study aimed to investigate the association of rs4730153 with MetS and its interaction with metabolic risk and lifestyle.

Results

The GG genotype (p= 0.031; OR 95% CI 3.88 [1.13–13.33]), GA+GG genotype (p= 0.048; OR 95% CI 10.52 [1.02–108.01]) and G allele carrier (p= 0.006; OR 95% CI 4.19 [1.51–11.64]) of rs4730153 had a higher risk of the MetS after adjusting for obesity, hypercholesterolemia, smoking and food intake. The risk was statistically significant for the younger age group ≤ 45 years old.

Conclusion

The GG, GA+GG genotype and G allele carrier of rs4730153 have a higher risk of the MetS, especially those who are obese, hypercholesterolemic and smokers and have a higher food intake in those aged ≤ 45 years old. Further larger, multicentre studies are required to confirm these pilot results.
Identified barriers and facilitators to stroke risk screening in children with sickle cell anemia: results from the DISPLACE consortium
Authors: Phillips Shannon M. , Schlenz Alyssa M. , Mueller Martina , Melvin Cathy L. , Adams Robert J. , Kanter Julie
Published: August 2021

Background

Children with sickle cell anemia are at risk for stroke. Ischemic stroke risk can be identified among children ages 2–16 years with sickle cell anemia using transcranial Doppler ultrasound. Despite strong recommendations for transcranial Doppler screening in guidelines released by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, implementation of transcranial Doppler screening in sickle cell anemia remains suboptimal. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers and facilitators to transcranial Doppler screening in a large national consortium to inform subsequent implementation interventions.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach was used to conduct 52 semi-structured interviews with a sample of patients with sickle cell anemia, their parents or primary caregivers, and healthcare providers dispersed across the United States. Interviews took place from September 2018 through March 2019. Directed content analysis was conducted with an adapted version of the Multilevel Ecological Model of Health as an initial coding framework, completed July 2019. Frequency analysis was conducted to determine predominant barrier and facilitator themes.

Results

Fourteen barrier themes and 12 facilitator themes emerged representing all levels of the ecological framework. Two barrier themes (Logistical Difficulties and Competing Life Demands and Gaps in Scheduling and Coordination), and 5 facilitator themes (Coordination, Scheduling and Reminders; Education and Information; Provider and Staff Investment and Assistance; Positive Patient Experience; and Convenient Location) were predominant.

Conclusions

Barriers and facilitators to transcranial Doppler screening in children with sickle cell anemia are complex and occur across multiple ecological levels. One barrier theme and 3 facilitator themes were found to be optimal to address in subsequent implementation interventions.
A review on corona virus and treatment approaches with Allium sativam
Authors: Pandey Rupesh Kumar , Pandey Ravindra Kumar , Shukla Shiv Shankar , Pandey Priyanka
Published: August 2021

Background

Recently reported cases of Covid-19 globally remind us that new diseases are coming while we are unable to provide the treatment for the same. The entire world is facing this viral attack; deaths are increasing day by day as well as infected patients too. Today, in the period of this disease, can we go to the shelter of our
traditional medicines?

Main body

In this article, we have taken medicines related to corona and conceptualized their mechanism, which gave us a chance to understand Garlic's mechanism of action, how Garlic can be a weapon in the lane with this disease. This article also tells how we can treat new diseases with our traditional herbs if no modern medicine has been discovered yet.

Conclusion

The present review is based on the structure of the virus and the targeted site for the drug discovery process with important constituents of Allium sativam. The review work also explains the allicin chemical constituent of Allium sativam which has targeted therapeutic sites related to Covid-19.
Gender Differences in Compensation in Anesthesiology in the United States: Results of a National Survey of Anesthesiologists
Authors: Hertzberg Linda B. , Miller Thomas R. , Byerly Stephanie , Rebello Elizabeth , Flood Pamela , Malinzak Elizabeth B. , Doyle Christine A. , Pease Sonya , Rock-Klotz Jennifer A. , Kraus Molly B. , Pai Sher-Lu
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND:

A gender-based compensation gap among physicians is well documented. Even after adjusting for age, experience, work hours, productivity, and academic rank, the gender gap remained and widened over the course of a physician’s career. This study aimed to examine if a significant gender pay gap still existed for anesthesiologists in the United States.

METHODS:

In 2018, we surveyed 28,812 physician members of the American Society of Anesthesiologists to assess the association of compensation with gender and to identify possible causes of wage disparities. Gender was the primary variable examined in the model, and compensation by gender was the primary outcome. Compensation was defined as the amount reported as direct compensation on a W-2, 1099, or K-1, plus all voluntary salary reductions (eg, 401[k], health insurance). The survey directed respondents to include salary, bonuses, incentive payments, research stipends, honoraria, and distribution of profits to employees. Respondents had the option of providing a point estimate of their compensation or selecting a range in $50,000 increments. Potential confounding variables that could affect compensation were identified based on a scoping literature review and the consensus expertise of the authors. We fitted a generalized ordinal logistic regression with 7 ranges of compensation. For the sensitivity analyses, we used linear regressions of log-transformed compensation based on respondent point estimates and imputed values.

RESULTS:

The final analytic sample consisted of 2081 observations (response rate, 7.2%). This sample represented a higher percentage of women and younger physicians compared to the demographic makeup of anesthesiologists in the United States. The adjusted odds ratio associated with gender equal to woman was an estimated 0.44 (95% confidence interval, 0.37–0.53), indicating that for a given compensation range, women had a 56% lower odds than men of being in a higher compensation range. Sensitivity analyses found the relative percentage difference in compensation for women compared to men ranged from −8.3 to −8.9. In the sensitivity analysis based on the subset of respondents (n = 1036) who provided a point estimate of compensation, the relative percentage difference (−8.3%; 95% confidence interval, −4.7 to −11.7) reflected a $32,617 lower compensation for women than men, holding other covariates at their means.

CONCLUSIONS:

Compensation for anesthesiologists showed a significant pay gap that was associated with gender even after adjusting for potential confounding factors, including age, hours worked, geographic practice region, practice type, position, and job selection criteria.
Genetic and epigenetic orchestration of Gfi1aa-Lsd1-cebpa in zebrafish neutrophil development
Authors: Wu Mei , Xu Yue , Li Jing , Lian Junwei , Chen Qi , Meng Ping , Lu Ting , Xie Huafeng , Zhang Wenqing , Xu Jin , Zhang Yiyue
Published: August 2021

Neutrophils are the most abundant vertebrate leukocytes and they are essential to host defense. Despite extensive investigation, the molecular network controlling neutrophil differentiation remains incompletely understood. GFI1 is associated with several myeloid disorders, but its role and the role of its co-regulators in granulopoiesis and pathogenesis are far from clear. Here, we demonstrate that zebrafish gfi1aa deficiency induces excessive neutrophil progenitor proliferation, accumulation of immature neutrophils from the embryonic stage, and some phenotypes similar to myelodysplasia syndrome in adulthood. Both genetic and epigenetic analyses demonstrate that immature neutrophil accumulation in gfi1aa-deficient mutants is due to upregulation of cebpa transcription. Increased transcription was associated with Lsd1-altered H3K4 methylation of the cebpa regulatory region. Taken together, our results demonstrate that Gfi1aa, Lsd1 and cebpa form a regulatory network that controls neutrophil development, providing a disease progression-traceable model for myelodysplasia syndrome. Use of this model could provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying GFI1-related myeloid disorders as well as a means by which to develop targeted therapeutic approaches for treatment.
MicroRNA-mediated inhibition of AMPK coordinates tissue-specific downregulation of skeletal muscle metabolism in hypoxic naked mole-rats
Authors: Hadj-Moussa Hanane , Chiasson Sarah , Cheng Hang , Eaton Liam , Storey Kenneth B. , Pamenter Matthew E.
Published: August 2021

Naked mole-rats reduce their metabolic requirements to tolerate severe hypoxia. However, the regulatory mechanisms that underpin this metabolic suppression have yet to be elucidated. 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is the cellular ‘master’ energy effector and we hypothesized that alterations in the AMPK pathway contribute to metabolic reorganization in hypoxic naked mole-rat skeletal muscle. To test this hypothesis, we exposed naked mole-rats to 4 h of normoxia (21% O2) or severe hypoxia (3% O2), while indirectly measuring whole-animal metabolic rate and fuel preference. We then isolated skeletal muscle and assessed protein expression and post-translational modification of AMPK, and downstream changes in key glucose and fatty acid metabolic proteins mediated by AMPK, including acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC1), glycogen synthase (GS) and glucose transporters (GLUTs) 1 and 4. We found that in hypoxic naked mole-rats (1) metabolic rate decreased ∼80% and fuel use switched to carbohydrates, and that (2) levels of activated phosphorylated AMPK and GS, and GLUT4 expression were downregulated in skeletal muscle, while ACC1 was unchanged. To explore the regulatory mechanism underlying this hypometabolic state, we used RT-qPCR to examine 55 AMPK-associated microRNAs (miRNAs), which are short non-coding RNA post-transcriptional silencers. We identified changes in 10 miRNAs (three upregulated and seven downregulated) implicated in AMPK downregulation. Our results suggest that miRNAs and post-translational mechanisms coordinately reduce AMPK activity and downregulate metabolism in naked mole-rat skeletal muscle during severe hypoxia. This novel mechanism may support tissue-specific prioritization of energy for more essential organs in hypoxia.
Self-reported COVID-19 among physicians: An Egyptian online study during the pandemic
Authors: Abou-ElWafa Hala Samir , El-Gilany Abdel-Hady , Albadry Ahmed A.
Published: August 2021

Abstract: 

Background: COVID-19 causes a critical occupational risk to frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) who respond to the pandemic, as they are placed in environments with an increased risk of infection exposure. It is a public health priority to understand how transmission occurs to protect this vulnerable group of HCWs. This study was conducted to estimate the incidence of self-reported COVID-19 infection among physicians and its possible associated factors. Methods: An online national survey using Survey Monkey was initiated to collect sociodemographic e.g. age and sex, occupational e.g. place and duration of work, and clinical data e.g. COVID symptoms and laboratory investigations, and to describe affected physicians' diagnoses. Results: The self-reported incidence of COVID-19 infection was found to be 65.4% among studied physicians. The significant independent predictors of COVID-19 infection were  smoking, working as a frontline physician, having contact with a COVID-19 case, and working for less than ten years [ARR (95% CI): 3.0(1.6-5.7), 2.3(1.4-3.8), 2.1(1.2-3.6), and 1.8(1.2-2.9); respectively]. Conclusions: The incidence of COVID-19 infection among Egyptian physicians is relatively high. Smoking, being a frontline physician, having contact with a COVID-19 case, and working for less than 10 years are all factors associated with an increased risk of infection. There should be strict application of preventive measures, periodic screening for COVID-19 for early detection and isolation of infected HCWs together with effective vaccination.
Anthropometric and physical fitness characteristics of male university cricket club players in accordance to player position and height categories
Authors: Noorbhai Habib , Khumalo Andrew
Published: August 2021

Background: The scientific research into the varied factors that influence cricket performance has become a focal area for overall improved performance. Although there has been documented evidence for both anthropometry and physical fitness among elite cricketers, there is a paucity of evidence among the club cricket cohort. This pilot study aims to evaluate the anthropometric and fitness measurements among a pilot sample of university club cricketers (n = 17; 9 batsmen and 8 bowlers) in South Africa.

Methods: Retrospective data were collected from the university’s male first cricket team of the 2019/2020 season. The data included both anthropometric (height, body mass, and body mass index) and physical fitness (explosive power, strength, Yo-Yo, speed and agility) parameters. The results exhibited for every parameter were presented according to height categories and player positions (batsman and bowler). Student t-tests were performed to determine the differences between fitness and anthropometric variables among both height categories and player positions. All data were analysed using SPSS (Version 26, IBM). The level of significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: The results indicated significant differences for height categories with regards to stature (p = 0.000) and agility (p = 0.03). Significant differences were also evident for different player positions with regards to body fat percentage (p = 0.02) and vertical jump distance (p = 0.03).

Conclusions: The findings of this pilot study indicated that cricketers who are shorter in stature are less superior with regards to anthropometric and fitness capabilities than their taller counterparts. In addition to being aware of the variances that exist for anthropometry, stature and fitness among cricketers at any level; this study provides implications for both coaches and sports scientists at the club level (under-researched level) in terms of how this can translate to player performances in accordance to height categories and player positions.
A daunting journey: A qualitative comparative study of women’s experiences of accessing midwifery care
Authors: Priday Adrienne , Payne Deborah , Hunter Marion
Published: August 2021

Background: Early engagement with a maternity carer is recommended as a means of reducing stillbirth and neonatal mortality. This is especially important for women who live in high deprivation areas, as these areas have been associated with late access to maternity/midwifery care and significantly higher rates of stillbirth and neonatal mortality. Co-locating midwives at general practitioner (GP) clinics in such an area was established with the aim of facilitating women’s early access to midwifery care. Aim: To explore the experience of multiparous women who live in socio-economically deprived communities within the Counties Manukau Health region and who accessed the services of midwives at co-located clinics. Method: Interpretive descriptive methodology was used to explore the experiences of each woman before and after using a co-located midwifery clinic. One-to-one, semi-structured interviews were undertaken and data examined using thematic analysis. Findings: The eight women interviewed found accessing Lead Maternity Care (LMC) midwives during early pregnancy a daunting journey before being able to use a co-located clinic in the Counties Manukau Health region. Barriers identified were: a lack of knowledge about how to find a LMC midwife, limited finance and limited time. These impacted on women’s ability and confidence to find a suitable LMC midwife. The women expressed the need for help to circumvent the maternity care maze through receiving a recommendation for a LMC midwife and having access to a midwife co-located at their GP clinic. Conclusions: The participants encountered numerous barriers accessing early LMC midwifery care. Enablers to accessing early LMC midwifery care include receiving recommendations from GP clinic personnel, and midwives being co-located at GP clinics to make maternity care convenient and with a smooth transition from GP to LMC midwife care.
TINDAKAN SOSIAL TOKOH UTAMA DALAM NOVEL AKU MASENJA KARYA RUMASI PASARIBU: KAJIAN SOSIOLOGI SASTRA
Authors: Lestari Wijayanti Dwi , Pramono Dedi
Published: August 2021

This research is motivated by the importance of one’s actions in dealing with problem in everyday life, including the social life of the main character in the novel. This research aims to determine the forms of social behavior of the main character in the novel Aku Masenjaby Rumasi Pasaribu. Social behavior theory refers to the theory social behavior from a male expert from Germany named Maximilian Weber or often called Max Weber. The research subject used is the novel Aku Masenjaby Rumasi Pasaribu. The object this research is the social behavior of the main character based on Max Weber’s theory. This research is a qualitative descriptive study. The data analysis technique uses the reading technique and the note taking technique. Then the results of the data analysis are presented in descriptive form. The results of this study indicate that the dominant form of social behavior that often appears in Aku Masenja is affective social behavior in the form of falling in love, anger, sadness, and suprise. While other actions such as behavior of instrumental rationality in the form of making decision, the desire to make parents happy, and the desire to protect students who are affected by the problem of values rationality behavior in the form moral values and religious values, tradisional behavior in the form of Pasemah community groups, the customs of a tribe in Bengkulu, the use of regional languages only a few forms appear.
ANALYZE THE USE OF PROGRESSIVE VERB ON SPONGEBOB MOVIES SERIES
Authors: Zhidqi Elvan Adam , Indriani Lilia
Published: August 2021

Progressive verb or continuous tense is a verb tense that uses to describe an action or activity that still ongoing. This progressive verb can be in past, present, and future tense. This article inspects progressive verbs in SpongeBob SquarePants Movie Series. Descriptive qualitative is the method of this article. It analyzes the distribution of progressive verb on the movie series, and which one from the progressive verb form that most distribution in movie series.
fabulate ergo sum: a criação, o currículo e o cuidado com a vida
Authors: Roseiro Steferson Zanoni
Published: August 2021

This essay discusses the possibility of turning what Henri Bergson, Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari called “fabulating” into a collective research method, insomuch as Deleuze and Guattari identified it as the invention of a collectivity that does not yet exist, a people to come. Given our current situation, in which the vital force of contemporary collectivities is undermined by the capitalist machine, this text inquires into the possibilities of an insurrection that begins with life in schools. If, as Bergson claimed, fabulating has a dark side that is inclined to the regulation of life, a philosophy of difference, on the other hand, conceptualizes the possibilities inherent in lived immanence. To fabulate would be, then, a question of creating possible existences. As such, this text proposes to fabulate, together with students from a suburban school in the municipality of Cariacica-ES, possible conditions of collective life in the school itself. Faced as it is by the market imperatives that govern the school and its curriculum, fabulation offers an approach and a methodology that promises to overcome this negative educational climate by fashioning larger than life images that transform and metamorphose conventional representations and concepts of collectivities, thereby enabling the invention of a people to come, and the creation of a commons and of a collective body capable of creating cognitive and affective domains that expand the limits of life.