bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and characterization of polyester composite yarn with PVB/ZrC/Al2O3 coating
Authors: Ke Guizhen , Jin Xinya , Li Wenbin
Published: May 2022

As a functional textile, photothermal textile materials are receiving more and more attention. A composite yarn was prepared by coating polyvinyl butyral/zirconium carbide/alumina oxide on the surface of polyester yarn through a sizing coating method with the aim to provide a textile substrate with controlled photothermal efficiency. The Box–Behnken design combined with response surface analysis and regression method was used to study the effects of input variables (polyvinyl butyral, zirconium carbide and alumina oxide concentration) on the temperature of the fabric made of polyester/polyvinyl butyral/zirconium carbide/alumina oxide composite yarn under infrared light irradiation. It was found that the effect of polyvinyl butyral and zirconium carbide content on the fabric surface temperature was more significant than that of alumina oxide content. The established regression model could predict the response value (fabric temperature) precisely. The optimal conditions for preparing the polyester/polyvinyl butyral/zirconium carbide/alumina oxide composite yarn were obtained by response surface analysis: 5.9% polyvinyl butyral, 5% zirconium carbide and 0.5% alumina oxide. The structure and properties of the yarn prepared under the optimal conditions were characterized. The results showed zirconium carbide and alumina oxide deposited on surface coating without obvious deterioration of thermal stability and tensile strength. The near-infrared light absorption rate of the composite yarn reached 96.71% and its surface temperature reached 104.0°C after 180 s irradiation under an infrared lamp. The photothermal temperature can still reach 101.5°C after 20 cyclings. The excellent photothermal conversion capacity indicates the polyester/polyvinyl butyral/zirconium carbide/alumina oxide yarn can realize solar energy utilization and be applied in heat management textiles.
The progress and prospect for sustainable development of waste wool resources
Authors: Sun Yanli , Li Bo , Zhang Yao , Dou Hao , Fan Wei , Wang Shujuan
Published: May 2022

With the growth of the world population and the improvement of living standards, the demand for global textiles has been increasing rapidly. Although natural fibers are affected by the development of synthetic fibers, wool still occupies a certain share in the textile industry and is one of the most indispensable materials. However, many postindustrial and post-consumer waste wool textiles will be produced. The conventional treatment method is landfill or incineration, which is not conducive to economic, environmental, and social development. To counter this problem, many measures and methods have been adapted for the reuse of waste resources. This article provides a review on waste wool recycling and summarizes two main directions for reuse. Waste wool can be used for thermal and sound insulation materials, reinforced composite materials, or adsorbent materials to purify contaminated water which rely on fiber properties. Keratin extracted from waste wool can be applied for the production of high-value products such as functional finishing agents, organic fertilizers, regenerated protein films/fibers, or smart wearable electronic devices. Meanwhile, future development trends and the demand of waste wool recycling are also discussed. Continuous research and exploration are still needed for effective management of waste wool resources and to turn them into useful and valuable materials or products.
Patterns of Home and Community Based Service Use by Beneficiaries Enrolled in the Pennsylvania Medicaid Aging Waiver
Authors: Van Cleve Raymond , Degenholtz Howard B
Published: May 2022

Background:

This study examines multiple services are used across a population and the association between type and amount of services use with level of disability and living arrangement.

Methods:

This is a descriptive cross-sectional analysis examining HCBS use among older Pennsylvanians from 2014 to 2016 enrolled in Pennsylvania’s 1915(c) waiver program. Data were derived from Medicaid claims. Logistic regression and OLS regression were used to examine the association between service use and level of disability, controlling for age, gender, race, and other covariates.

Results:

People with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia were more likely to use adult day care. People with higher ADL and IADL limitations were more likely to use higher amounts of PAS and less likely to have delivered meals.

Conclusions:

These findings demonstrate HCBS is a complex package of services that are allocated regarding the level of need and resources available to individual program participants.
Predicting Patient No-Shows in an Academic Pediatric Neurology Clinic
Authors: Peng Jin , Patel Anup D. , Burch Maggie , Rossiter Samantha , Parker William , Rust Steve
Published: May 2022

Background: No-shows can negatively affect patient care. Efforts to predict high-risk patients are needed. Previously, our epilepsy clinic identified patients with 2 or more no-shows or late cancelations in the past 18 months as being at high risk for no-shows. Our objective was to develop a model to accurately predict the risk of no-shows among patients with epilepsy seen at our neurology clinic. Methods: Using electronic health record data, we developed a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)–regularized logistic regression model to predict no-shows and compared its performance with our neurology clinic's above-mentioned ad hoc rule. Results: The ad hoc rule identified 13% of patients seen at our neurology clinic as high-risk patients for no-shows and resulted in a positive predictive value of 38%. In comparison, our LASSO model resulted in a positive predictive value of 48%. Our LASSO model identified that lack of private insurance, inactive Epic MyChart, greater past no-show rates, fewer appointment changes before the appointment date, and follow-up appointments were more likely to result in no-shows. Conclusions: Our LASSO model outperformed the ad hoc rule used by our neurology clinic in predicting patients at high risk for no-shows. Social workers can use the no-show risk scores generated by our LASSO model to prioritize high-risk patients for targeted intervention to reduce no-shows at our neurology clinic.
When Does WeChat Usage Decrease Loneliness? A Panel Study Examining the Moderating Roles of Age and Perceived Network Supportiveness
Authors: Zhang Lianshan , Yang Xiaodong , Jung Eun Hwa
Published: May 2022

Moving beyond examining overall social networking site (SNS) use, this study examined the influence of three types of WeChat activities on loneliness, considering the moderating roles of age and perceived network supportiveness on WeChat. Results of a two-wave panel survey with Chinese WeChat users ( N = 1202 at Time 1, N = 740 at Time 2) revealed that frequent directed communication, content consumption, and broadcasting on WeChat did not directly influence participants’ loneliness across age cohorts over time. However, the effects of WeChat activities on loneliness were contingent upon a user’s age. Moreover, the positive role of WeChat activities in alleviating loneliness was significant only for users who perceived higher levels of network supportiveness on WeChat. For users who perceived lower levels of network supportiveness, frequent WeChat activities led to increased loneliness over time. These findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the implications of mobile SNS use on well-being across generations in the longitudinal context.
Discrete Boltzmann modeling of detonation: Based on the Shakhov model
Authors: Shan Yiming , Xu Aiguo , Zhang Yudong , Wang Lifeng , Chen Feng
Published: May 2022

A Discrete Boltzmann Model(DBM) based on the Shakhov model for detonation is proposed. Compared with the DBM based on the Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook (BGK) model, the current model has a flexible Prandtl numbers and consequently can be applied to a much wider range of detonation phenomena. Besides the Hydrodynamic Non-Equilibrium (HNE) behaviors usually investigated by the Navier–Stokes model, the most relevant Thermodynamic Non-Equilibrium (TNE) effects can be probed by the current model. The model is validated by some well-known benchmarks, and some steady and unsteady detonation processes are investigated. As for the von Neumann peak relative to the wave front, it is found that (i) (within the range of numerical experiments) the peak heights of pressure, density, and flow velocity increase exponentially with the Prandtl number, the maximum stress increases parabolically with the Prandtl number, and the maximum heat flux decreases exponentially with the Prandtl number and (ii) the peak heights of pressure, density, temperature and flow velocity, and the maximum stress within the peak are parabolically increase with the Mach number, the maximum heat flux decreases exponentially with the Mach number.
Analytical and experimental investigation of composite pads created by using coke dust against the fading problem in railway vehicles
Authors: Unal A , Akkus N
Published: May 2022

In this study, the effects of using coke dust in brake pad mixtures against the problem of friction coefficient reduction occurring at high temperatures in railway vehicle brake pads were investigated. For this purpose, the average friction coefficients and wear rates of the brake pads produced by using different amounts of coke dust were tested with the help of a dynamometer at different temperature values and the brake pad mixture containing coke dust with optimum ratio was determined. Brake pads with optimum coke dust ratio were tested in a train set under real railway conditions and the stopping distances of the train set and the temperatures during braking were measured. Using the stopping distances measured during railway tests and the average friction coefficients of the brake pads were analyzed analytically and compared with the dynamometer results. As a result of these tests, it has been observed that the coke dust material reduces the friction coefficient at low temperatures, but increases the friction coefficient at high temperatures and significantly reduces the amount of wear.
On 3D printed biomedical sensors for non-enzymatic glucose sensing applications
Authors: Kumar Vinay , Kumar Ranvijay , Singh Rupinder , Kumar Pawan
Published: May 2022

Some studies have been reported in the recent past on smart sensors for non-enzymatic glucose sensing applications. Nevertheless, little has been reported on the in-house development of low-cost 3D printed smart biomedical sensors with tunable sensitivity. This study reports investigations on the in-house, low-cost fabrication of polyvinyl difluoride (PVDF) matrix-based 3D printed tunable non-enzymatic glucose sensors. For fabrication of smart sensors, Cu (4%) doped ZnO nanoparticles have been reinforced (in different weight proportions (wt%) in PVDF matrix through melt processing. The results suggest that 4% reinforcement (of 4% Cu doped-ZnO), processed at 190°C, 40 rpm screw speed on twin screw extrusion (TSE) followed by post heat treatment (HT) at 60°C are the best settings for fabrication of feedstock filaments (for bio-sensor 3D printing). Finally, a PVDF-based sensor to support bioreceptor and transducer requirements has been successfully prepared (with 4D properties (i.e. one-way programing feature), optical, morphological, bond strength, piezoelectric and mechanical characteristics). The 3D printed electro-active sensor, (of selected composition) resulted in acceptable mechanical, piezoelectric, and dielectric properties (modulus of toughness (MoT) 1.46 MPa, Young’s modulus (YM) 1221.7 MPa, piezoelectric coefficient 19.3pC/N and dielectric constant 6.5). The results have been supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), current-voltage-resistance (I-V-R), and Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) analysis.
Bacterial polyarthritis in post-weaning pigs in a high-density swine breeding area in Italy
Authors: Salogni Cristian , Capucchio Maria Teresa , Colombino Elena , Pozzi Paolo , Pasquali Paolo , Alborali Giovanni Loris
Published: May 2022

We assessed the bacterial agents found in 8–12-wk-old post-weaning pigs with arthritis. The bodies of 178 post-weaning pigs from 90 farms (average of 2 pigs/farm) with recurrent problems of lameness and swollen joints in a high-density breeding area were submitted for autopsy and sampled for further bacterial investigation. The most common articular gross lesions and histopathologic findings were serofibrinous (95 of 178; 53%) or serous (65 of 178; 37%) arthritis; suppurative lesions were less frequent (18 of 178; 10%). In 133 of 178 (74.7%) cases, a bacterial agent was detected in joints. Mycoplasma hyorhinis was the most common bacterium detected (82 of 133; 61.6%). Haemophilus parasuis and Streptococcus spp. were observed in 27 of 133 (20.3%) and 24 of 133 (18.0%) cases, respectively. Other bacteria in the 113 cases, considered less important, in order of their low frequency, were Mycoplasma spp. (13; 9.8%), Trueperella pyogenes (11; 8.2%), Mycoplasma hyosynoviae (4; 3.0%), Staphylococcus spp. (3; 2.2%), Escherichia coli (2; 1.5%), and Actinobacillus spp. (2; 1.5%). Our results highlight the primary role of M. hyorhinis compared to other microorganisms involved in young pigs with arthritis.
A new duplex real-time PCR for simultaneous detection and differentiation of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum and Trichomonas gallinae
Authors: Sigrist Brigitte , Ng T. W. Cherry , Albini Sarah , Wolfrum Nina
Published: May 2022

Tetratrichomonas gallinarum and Trichomonas gallinae are pathogenic avian parasites that infect a wide range of bird species. The pathologic potential of T. gallinarum is controversial, whereas T. gallinae causes disease in many avian species. Infections are often asymptomatic in doves and pigeons; thus, columbids are presumed to represent the natural hosts for trichomonads. The detection of T. gallinarum and T. gallinae is based on direct microscopic observation or a conventional PCR assay. Microscopy is not very sensitive, and identification of the trichomonads at the genus or species level is not possible. Conventional PCR assays have been developed primarily for phylogenetic studies, which detect a wide range of Trichomonas spp. but do not allow their differentiation. We developed a duplex real-time PCR (rtPCR) assay for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of T. gallinarum and T. gallinae. We found that the rtPCR assay detected 102 plasmid DNA copies of T. gallinarum and as few as 101 plasmid DNA copies of T. gallinae.
“What’s done is done, the bullet’s left the gun”: Questions on the Application, Origin, and Metaphysics of the «Course-of-Experience Framework»
Authors: Høffding Simon
Published: May 2022

The Course-of-Experience presents an interesting method for working with others’ experience, drawing on Micro-phenomenology (MP), Enactivism, and Peircean semiotics. It addresses possible applications to cognitive science, answering to a call about how to reliably integrate phenomenological data and experimental methods. I applaud the ambitious framework presented in the target paper, and hope that Poizat and colleagues in response or in later work will address three potential shortcoming: (1) How does the framework fare in comparison to similar methods. (2) Why is Peircean semiotics necessary for the framework? 3) Does it need to copy what seems to be epistemological and metaphysical infelicities concerning pre-reflective experience directly from MP?
Blurring ontological boundaries: The transactional nature of material engagement
Authors: Alessandroni Nicolás , Malafouris Lambros
Published: May 2022

The target article provides valuable reflections regarding the study of cognition-in-the-world and proposes a methodology that could help researchers unravel the structure and temporal unfolding of lived experience. In this commentary, we discuss the authors' commitment to the enactive notion of sense-making as the activity of an autonomous system that brings forth a meaningful world to maintain its self-constituted identity. From Material Engagement Theory, we hold that defending such a notion leads to unnecessary ontological asymmetries that obscure the fundamental role of materiality for cognition. On the one hand, we argue that the relationship of close intertwinement and co-constitution that unites organism and environment makes it untenable to characterise cognition as being driven by individuals. In our view, cognition arises from the dynamic encounter between brains, bodies and culture. On the other hand, we suggest that organism and environment should not be seen as separate ontological categories that come to interact with each other but as two terms of a transactional process of continuous becoming. Consistently, we propose to consider meaning as emerging from the in-between space that material engagement creates rather than from the activity of an organism.
Developing African oral traditional storytelling as a framework for studying with African peoples
Authors: Osei-Tutu Araba A Z
Published: May 2022

Oral traditions have played and continue to play a critical role in the lives of African peoples albeit changes in context and usage. In this article, I discuss the development of what I term the African Oral Traditional Storytelling (AOTS) Framework as an ethical and culturally centered approach to studying with African peoples. Akin to narrative inquiry methodology, the AOTS Framework is developed as an alternative approach to studying or working with African peoples by centering African oral storytelling, African philosophies and worldviews, languages, and cultures as relevant and essential to understanding the experiences of African peoples. The collaborative philosophical underpinnings of the AOTS Framework rest on the communal and the collaborators’ engagement in the study not just as people who provide information but as co-creators in the narratives, meanings, and understandings that are brought to bear.
Revisiting Highlander and Its Theoretical Origins for Civic Education
Authors: Loberg Kristi K.
Published: May 2022

Adult educators and scholars have long recognized the Highlander Education and Research Center in Tennessee as a model for adult civic education that is transformative for individuals and society. In 2004, researchers at Harvard University identified Highlander as one of the most successful initiatives worldwide with long-term impact on societal transformation. It is important for current scholars interested in adult and civic education to understand Highlander’s theoretical and practical contributions to adult learning and civic action, and how it shares many of the same theoretical streams of thought that influenced the development of transformative adult education. This article will provide an in-depth review of how Highlander’s theoretical origins, depicted through one of its founder’s intellectual discoveries, were forerunners to contemporary transformative educational theory and became a catalyst for a decades-long enterprise of transformative education. Highlander and its approach may be unfamiliar to contemporaries in adult education, but its theoretical and practical approach remains highly relevant as we seek nontraditional models and educational practices to promote civic engagement for a more socially and economically just society.
Association between excessive alcohol consumption and hypertension control in hypertensive patients
Authors: Hwang Sinwoo , Choi Jae Woo
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The purposes of this study were to investigate the association between excessive alcohol consumption and control of hypertension and the associations stratified by sex, age, and duration of hypertension among Korean adults who were diagnosed with hypertension under medication.

Methods

This study was cross-sectional design with a secondary data analysis using national data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Evaluation Survey (KNHANES) collected from 2013 to 2018, including 4278 participants who were diagnosed with hypertension under medication. A multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the associations between excessive alcohol consumption and hypertension control while controlling for potential confounding variables.

Results

The hypertensive patients who consumed excessive alcohol were more associated with uncontrolled hypertension (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.04–1.65) than those who do not consumed excessive alcohol. Specially, Excessive consumption of alcohol in men and young adults (<65 years) and short duration of hypertension (<5 years) were significantly more associated with uncontrolled hypertension compared to their counterparts.

Discussion

To improve blood pressure (BP) control in hypertensive patients, healthcare plan should be focused to modifiable risk factors and the intervention for unhealthy alcohol consumption should be part of comprehensive treatment for hypertension.
An affine-scaling interior-point filter line-search algorithm for constrained optimization
Authors: Wang Zhujun
Published: May 2022

This paper presents and analyzes an affine-scaling interior-point algorithm with a filter line-search method for solving nonlinear optimization problems with nonlinear equality constraints and nonnegative variables. In our scheme, we require that a damped Newton’s method is applied to the perturbed first-order necessary conditions to produce a search direction. Some filtered rules for a fixed barrier parameter are used to determine step acceptance. Second-order correction technique is used to reduce infeasibility and overcome the Maratos effect. The global convergence and fast local convergence rate of the proposed algorithm are established under some suitable conditions.
SigmaTel: Adoption of distributor management system
Authors: Ambust Nishant , Dewani Prem P , Saha Suraj
Published: May 2022

The SigmaTel case deals with sales and distribution, channel management, and technology adoption issues. SigmaTel, part of a large and diversified corporate conglomerate, is the largest telecom operator in India. It entered a highly competitive market and quickly rose to the top spot on the back of cheap data and call rates and a strong 4G network. The case is set in 2021 when the company implements Distributor Management System (DMS)—a technology solution to streamline distributor operations. The primary decision point that the case protagonist, Sanjay Prakash, Head of Sales at SigmaTel, Delhi, faces is how to proceed in light of unexpected challenges that the initiative is facing. Should he recommend that SigmaTel proceed with the rollout? If yes, then how does he overcome distributor resistance and conflict? Failure to adopt DMS can impact the strategic business goals of SigmaTel.
Perspectives of autistic adults on the strategies that help or hinder successful conversations
Authors: Silver Kate , Parsons Sarah
Published: May 2022

Background & aims

There is increasing recognition of the importance of challenging deficit-focused, medical model approaches to supporting autistic people in daily life, however there is a lack of inclusion of autistic perspectives to inform approaches that may empower autistic people in conversations.

Methods

This multiple case study used a participatory approach to explore the conversation experiences and exchange in dyads of five autistic and five non-autistic adults over four to 12 months. The study was grounded in the perspectives of autistic people through a series of semi-structured interviews, observations, reflective conversations, and diary records.

Results

The findings focus on autistic participants’ existing knowledge of conversations that they reported could be useful to them, including the communication environment, and type and structure of talk. The study also helped participants to identify and use previously unrecognised metacognitive abilities (what they already knew about conversations) within naturalistic interactive contexts.

Conclusions

These findings provide novel insights as to how the ‘interactional expertise’ of non-autistic people could be strengthened to enable the effective contribution of the voices of autistic people in everyday conversations.

Implications

The identification and use of successful conversation strategies identified by autistic adults gave them a greater sense of empowerment within the conversation based on their accounts of their experiences. Understanding these strategies has valuable implications for staff training, for working with families and for learning by autistic adults.
Frequency and types of clusters of major chronic diseases in 0.5 million adults in urban and rural China
Authors: Hariri Parisa , Clarke Robert , Bragg Fiona , Chen Yiping , Guo Yu , Yang Ling , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Li Liming , Chen Zhengming , Bennett Derrick A ,   on behalf of the China Kadoorie Biobank Collaborative Group
Published: May 2022

Background

Little is known about the frequency and types of disease clusters involving major chronic diseases that contribute to multimorbidity in China. We examined the frequency of disease clusters involving major chronic diseases and their relationship with age and socioeconomic status in 0.5 million Chinese adults.

Methods

Multimorbidity was defined as the presence of at least two or more of five major chronic diseases: stroke, ischaemic heart disease (IHD), diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cancer. Multimorbid disease clusters were estimated using both self-reported doctor-diagnosed diseases at enrolment and incident cases during 10-year follow-up. Frequency of multimorbidity was assessed overall and by age, sex, region, education and income. Association rule mining (ARM) and latent class analysis (LCA) were used to assess clusters of the five major diseases.

Results

Overall, 11% of Chinese adults had two or more major chronic diseases, and the frequency increased with age (11%, 24% and 33% at age 50–59, 60–69 and 70–79 years, respectively). Multimorbidity was more common in men than women (12% vs 11%) and in those living in urban than in rural areas (12% vs 10%), and was inversely related to levels of education. Stroke and IHD were the most frequent combinations, followed by diabetes and stroke. The patterns of self-reported disease clusters at baseline were similar to those that were recorded during the first 10 years of follow-up.

Conclusions

Cardiometabolic and cardiorespiratory diseases were most common disease clusters. Understanding the nature of such clusters could have implications for future prevention strategies.
Rotation Angle Control Strategy for Telescopic Flexible Manipulator Based on a Combination of Fuzzy Adjustment and RBF Neural Network
Authors: Shang Dongyang , Li Xiaopeng , Yin Meng , Li Fanjie , Wen Bangchun
Published: May 2022

The length of flexible manipulators with a telescopic arm alters during movement. The dynamic parameters of telescopic flexible manipulators exhibit significant time-varying characteristics owing to variations in length. With an increase in the manipulators’ length, the nonlinear terms caused by flexibility in the manipulators’ dynamic equations cannot be ignored. The time-varying characteristics and nonlinear terms of telescopic flexible manipulators cause fluctuations in rotation angles, which affect the operation accuracy of end-effectors. In this study, a control strategy based on a combination of fuzzy adjustment and an RBF neural network is utilized to improve the control accuracy of flexible telescopic manipulators. First, the dynamic equation of the manipulators is established using the assumed mode method and Lagrange’s principle, and the influence of nonlinear terms is analyzed. Subsequently, a combined control strategy is proposed to suppress the fluctuation of the rotation angle in telescopic flexible manipulators. The variation ranges of the feedforward PD controller parameters are determined by the pole placement strategy and length of the manipulators. Fuzzy rules are utilized to adjust the controller parameters in real-time. The RBF neural network is utilized to identify and compensate the uncertain part of the dynamic model of the flexible manipulators. The uncertain part comprises time-varying parameters and nonlinear terms. Finally, numerical simulations and prototype experiments prove the effectiveness of the combined control strategy. The results prove that the proposed control strategy has a smaller standard deviation of errors. Therefore, the combined control strategy is more suitable for telescopic flexible manipulators, which can effectively improve the control accuracy of rotation angles.
HCMV-miR-US33-5p promotes apoptosis of aortic vascular smooth muscle cells by targeting EPAS1/SLC3A2 pathway
Authors: Dong Jian , Li Shuangshuang , Lu Zilin , Du Pengcheng , Liu Guangqin , Li Mintao , Ma Chao , Zhou Jian , Bao Junmin
Published: May 2022

Background

In patients with acute aortic dissection (AAD), increased vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) apoptosis has been found. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-miR-US33-5p was significantly increased in the plasma of patients with AAD. However, the roles of miR-US33-5p in human aortic VSMC (HA-VSMC) apoptosis remain to be elucidated.

Methods

In the current study, cell apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry, cell proliferation by CCK-8 assay, and differentially expressed genes by RNA sequencing. Luciferase reporter assay was used for binding analysis between miR-US33-5p and endothelial PAS domain protein 1 (EPAS1), and EPAS1 and amino acid transporter heavy chain, member 2 (SLC3A2). The enrichment degree of SLC3A2 promoter DNA was analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunoblotting were performed for measuring messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels, respectively.

Results

It was found that HCMV infection inhibited proliferation but promoted HA-VSMC apoptosis by upregulating HCMV-miR-US33-5p. Transfection of HCMV-miR-US33-5p mimics the significant effect on several signaling pathways including integrin signaling as shown in the RNA sequencing data. Western blotting analysis confirmed that HCMV-miR-US33-5p mimics suppression of the activity of key factors of the integrin signal pathway including FAK, AKT, CAS, and Rac. Mechanistic study showed that HCMV-miR-US33-5p bound to the 3′-untranslated region of EPAS1 to suppress its expression, leading to suppression of SLC3A2 expression, which ultimately promoted cell apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation. This was confirmed by the findings that silencing EPAS1 significantly reduced the SLC3A2 expression and inhibited proliferation and key factors of integrin signal pathway.

Conclusions

HCMV-miR-US33-5p suppressed proliferation, key factors of integrin signal pathway, and EPAS1/SLC3A2 expression, but promoted HA-VSMC apoptosis. These findings highlighted the importance of HCMV-miR-US33-5p/EPAS1/SCL3A2 signaling and may provide new insights into therapeutic strategies for AAD.
METTL16 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through downregulating RAB11B-AS1 in an m6A-dependent manner
Authors: Dai Yun-zhang , Liu Yong-da , Li Jie , Chen Mei-ting , Huang Mei , Wang Fang , Yang Qing-song , Yuan Ji-hang , Sun Shu-han
Published: May 2022

Background

The molecular mechanisms driving hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain largely unclear. As one of the major epitranscriptomic modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays key roles in HCC. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression, roles, and mechanisms of action of the RNA methyltransferase methyltransferase-like protein 16 (METTL16) in HCC.

Methods

The expression of METTL16 and RAB11B-AS1 was determined by RT-qPCR. The regulation of RAB11B-AS1 by METTL16 was investigated by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), methylated RIP (MeRIP), and RNA stability assays. In vitro and in vivo gain- and loss-of-function assays were performed to investigate the roles of METTL16 and RAB11B-AS1.

Results

METTL16 was upregulated in HCC, and its increased expression was correlated with poor prognosis of HCC patients. METTL16 promoted HCC cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion, repressed HCC cellular apoptosis, and promoted HCC tumoral growth in vivo. METTL16 directly bound long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) RAB11B-AS1, induced m6A modification of RAB11B-AS1, and decreased the stability of RAB11B-AS1 transcript, leading to the downregulation of RAB11B-AS1. Conversely to METTL16, RAB11B-AS1 is downregulated in HCC, and its decreased expression was correlated with poor prognosis of patients with HCC. Furthermore, the expression of RAB11B-AS1 was negatively correlated with METTL16 in HCC tissues. RAB11B-AS1 repressed HCC cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion, promoted HCC cellular apoptosis, and inhibited HCC tumoral growth in vivo. Functional rescue assays revealed that overexpression of RAB11B-AS1 reversed the oncogenic roles of METTL16 in HCC.

Conclusions

This study identified the METTL16/RAB11B-AS1 regulatory axis in HCC, which represented novel targets for HCC prognosis and treatment.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of the SPL gene family and its expression in the various developmental stages and stress conditions in foxtail millet (Setaria italica)
Authors: Lai Dili , Fan Yue , Xue Guoxing , He Ailing , Yang Hao , He Chunlin , Li Yijing , Ruan Jingjun , Yan Jun , Cheng Jianping
Published: May 2022

Background

Among the major transcription factors, SPL plays a crucial role in plant growth, development, and stress response. Foxtail millet (Setaria italica), as a C4 crop, is rich in nutrients and is beneficial to human health. However, research on the foxtail millet SPL (SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING-LIKE) gene family is limited. 

Results

In this study, a total of 18 SPL genes were identified for the comprehensive analysis of the whole genome of foxtail millet. These SiSPL genes were divided into seven subfamilies (I, II, III, V, VI, VII, and VIII) according to the classification of the Arabidopsis thaliana SPL gene family. Structural analysis of the SiSPL genes showed that the number of introns in subfamilies I and II were much larger than others, and the promoter regions of SiSPL genes were rich in different cis-acting elements. Among the 18 SiSPL genes, nine genes had putative binding sites with foxtail millet miR156. No tandem duplication events were found between the SiSPL genes, but four pairs of segmental duplications were detected. The SiSPL genes expression were detected in different tissues, which was generally highly expressed in seeds development process, especially SiSPL6 and SiSPL16, which deserve further study. The results of the expression levels of SiSPL genes under eight types of abiotic stresses showed that many stress responsive genes, especially SiSPL9, SiSPL10, and SiSPL16, were highly expressed under multiple stresses, which deserves further attention.

Conclusions

In this research, 18 SPL genes were identified in foxtail millet, and their phylogenetic relationships, gene structural features, duplication events, gene expression and potential roles in foxtail millet development were studied. The findings provide a new perspective for the mining of the excellent SiSPL gene and the molecular breeding of foxtail millet.
Correlation between perioperative parecoxib use and postoperative acute kidney injury in patients undergoing radical mastectomy: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Xu Nan , Pang Ke , Qi Sihua , Wang Hongmei
Published: May 2022

Background

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most widely prescribed drugs worldwide. However, the effect of NSAIDS on postoperative renal function is still unclear. Few studies have assessed the effects of parecoxib on renal function. Our aim is to investigate a correlation between parecoxib and the presence or absence of AKI postoperatively after a breast cancer surgery operation.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study that we performed on our hospitalized database. From January 2012 to August 2021, 3542 female patients undergoing radical mastectomy were enrolled, all data including the patients' information and laboratory results were obtained from electronic medical system. The main outcome was the incidence of AKI postoperatively. AKI was defined in accordance with the KDIGO criteria. Study groups were treated with or without parecoxib. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

In our study, about 5.76% experienced AKI. The incidence rate of postoperative AKI (3.49%) within 7 days in the parecoxib group was lower than that in the control group (6.00%, P = 0.05). Compared to the control group, the AKI’s incidence was reduced by 49% (OR = 0.46; 95%CI 0.27–0.97) in parecoxib group in multivariable logistic regression analysis. There was a reduction in the incidence of postoperative AKI in other three subgroups: preoperative eGFR < 90 mL/min·1.73/m2 (OR = 0.52; 95%CI 0.27–0.97), blood loss < 1000 ml (OR = 0.48; 95%CI 0.24–0.96) and non-diabetes (OR = 0.51; 95%CI 0.26–0.98).

Conclusions

Parecoxib was associated with incidence of postoperative acute kidney injury.
Unusual presentation of extra-nodal double-hit follicular lymphoma: a case report
Authors: Lazzi Stefano , Granai Massimo , Capanni Marco , Fend Falko
Published: May 2022

Background

To the best of our knowledge, this case represents the first report of an extranodal double-hit follicular lymphoma (DH-FL) as an intestinal polypoid lesion.

Case presentation

A 72-year-old woman presents with constipation. Colonoscopy reveals a sessile polypoid lesion of the colon bearing morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular hallmarks of DH-FL. Complete clinical staging and bone marrow biopsy showed no signs of disseminated disease. The patient, after two years of follow-up is still free of disease confirming the indolent behaviour of this limited lesion.

Conclusions

A synoptic view at all the features of the patient and not merely at the molecular hallmarks of a disease are essential to establish the correct clinical approach.
Seroprevalence and characteristics of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in workers with non-specific disease symptoms
Authors: Javed Wajiha , Abidi Syed Hussain Baqar , Baqar Jaffer Bin
Published: May 2022

Background

The population-based serosurveys are essential for estimating Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) burden and monitoring the progression of this pandemic. We aimed to assess the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and potential predictors of seropositivity in the Pakistani population.

Methodology

This population-based seroprevalence study includes consenting subjects from the workplaces (factories, corporates, restaurants, media houses, schools, banks, and hospitals) located in the urban areas of Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, and Quetta. We analyzed each subject's serum sample for SARS-CoV-2-IgM and/or IgG antibodies using UNIPER IgG/IgM Rapid COVID-19 Testing Kit. The subject's demographics, exposure history, and symptoms experienced (in last 7 days) were also obtained. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0.

Results

The overall seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was 16.0% (2810/17,764). The total antibody seropositivity was higher in males than females (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.110–1.340). The symptomatic subjects had 2.18 times higher odds of IgG seropositivity while 1.2 times for IgM seropositivity than the asymptomatic subjects. The multivariable logistic regression model showed that the odds of SARS-CoV-2 total antibody seroprevalence were affected by the number of dependents (OR = 1.077; 95% CI 1.054–1.099), apparent symptomology (OR = 1.288; 95% CI 1.011–1.643), close unprotected contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19 (OR 2.470; 95% CI 2.164–2.819), traveling history (last 14 days) (OR = 1.537; 95% CI 1.234–1.914) and proximity with someone who traveled (OR = 1.534; 95% CI 1.241–1.896).

Conclusion

We found a reasonable seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the studied population. Several factors like the number of dependents, apparent symptoms, close unprotected contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19, traveling history, and proximity with someone who traveled are associated with increased odds of SARS-CoV-2 antibody seropositivity.
Prevalence and factors associated with psychological distress among patients on warfarin at the Uganda Heart Institute, Mulago Hospital
Authors: Naisanga Molly , SekaggyaWiltshire Christine , Muhwezi Wilson Winstons , Musaazi Joseph , Akena Dickens
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality worldwide and are significantly associated with multiple comorbid disorders including mental disorders such as psychological distress (PD). At increased risk of PD are CVD patient sub-categories that not only require chronic therapy but also need follow up with continuous blood tests and dose adjustments (like the patients on warfarin). However, not much has been done to ascertain the burden of PD among patients on warfarin in Uganda.

Objective

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with PD among patients on anticoagulation with warfarin at the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI).

Methods

In this analytical cross-sectional study, 197 participants were sampled from adults on warfarin attending the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) out patient clinic. The Self Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20), a tool with a total maximum score of 20 and cutoff for PD at ≥6 was used to determine the presence of PD among participants, and a socio-demographic questionnaire to document the socio-demographic characteristics of the subjects. Additional questions including the underlying CVD diagnosis, medications used (besides warfarin) and presence of chronic illnesess were also assessed. Bi-variable and multi-variabe logistic regression analysis techniques were used to examine the associations between the dependent and independent variables.

Results

The prevalence of PD was 32%. The unemployed participants were 4.5 times more likely to have PD (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]4.56, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–18.62, p = 0.04). Participants who had experienced social stressors were more likely to have PD (aOR: 11.38, CI: 3.60–36.04, p < 0.01). Other factors associated with a higher likelihood of having PD included: presence of other chronic comorbidities (aOR: 3.69, CI: 1.24–11.02, p = 0.02) and concomitant use of loop diuretics (aOR: 4.13, CI: 1.67–10.19,p < 0.01). A shorter length of time on warfarin (7–24 months) lowered the likelihood of PD (aOR: 0.23, CI: 0.07–0.74, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The prevalence of PD was high among patients on warfarin in this low income setting and there is a need to characterize the specific psychiatric disorders in patients with CVD. Interventions that address the high burden of PD are urgently needed in this setting.
Perceptions of the Coronavirus and COVID-19 testing and vaccination in Latinx and Indigenous Mexican immigrant communities in the Eastern Coachella Valley
Authors: Gehlbach Daniel , Vázquez Evelyn , Ortiz Gabriela , Li Erica , Sánchez Cintya Beltrán , Rodríguez Sonia , Pozar María , Cheney Ann M.
Published: May 2022

Background

A novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 (known as COVID-19), spread rapidly around the world, affecting all and creating an ongoing global pandemic. Across the United States, Latinx and Indigenous populations have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 cases and death rates. An examination of the perceptions and beliefs about the spread of the virus, COVID-19 testing, and vaccination amongst racial-ethnic minority groups, specifically Latinx and Indigenous Latin American immigrant communities, is needed to alleviate the widespread disparity in new cases and deaths.

Methods

This study was carried out from August 2020 to January 2021 and used community-based participatory research to engage community partners and build the capacity of community health workers (i.e., promotores de salud) and pre-medical and medical students in conducting qualitative research. The objective of the study was to examine the structural and social determinants of health on perceptions of the coronavirus, its spread, and decisions around COVID-19 testing and vaccination. Data collection included ethnography involving observations in public settings and focus groups with members of Latinx and Indigenous Mexican farm-working communities in the Eastern Coachella Valley, located in the Inland Southern California desert region. A total of seven focus groups, six in Spanish and one in Purépecha, with a total of 55 participants were conducted. Topics covered include perceptions of the coronavirus and its spread, as well as COVID-19 testing and vaccination.

Results

Using theme identification techniques, the findings identify structural and social factors that underly perceptions held by Latinx and Indigenous Mexican immigrants about the virus and COVID-19, which, in turn, shape attitudes and behaviors related to COVID-19 testing and vaccination. Common themes that emerged across focus groups include misinformation, lack of trust in institutions, and insecurity around employment and residency.

Conclusions

This immigrant population is structurally vulnerable to historical and present-day inequalities that put them at increased risk of COVID-19 exposure, morbidity, and mortality. Study findings indicate a significant need for interventions that decrease structural vulnerabilities by addressing issues of (dis)trust in government and public health among this population.
Factors influencing changes in medication-taking and driving behavior after warnings about prescription medications that prohibit driving: an online survey
Authors: Fukuda Yasue , Saito Moemi
Published: May 2022

Background

This study examined warning messages as a strategy for preventing automobile crashes by drivers on medications. We investigated the degree of awareness regarding the effects of medication on automobile driving and changes in medication-taking and driving behavior. We also assessed associations between socio-environmental factors and the driving and medication-taking behavior adopted by individuals after being warned about driving-related risks.

Methods

Responses to an online questionnaire from 1200 people with a driving license who were taking prescription medications at the time of inquiry (March 2019) were collected and analyzed. The items surveyed were sex, age, educational history, health literacy, current medications, and medication-taking and driving behavior after being warned.

Results

Of the total respondents, 30% were taking medicine that prohibited driving. Of those taking prohibited medications, 25.7% did not receive a warning about driving from healthcare professionals. Most respondents taking prohibited medications received euphemistic warnings, such as “practice caution” (30%), “refrain from calling attention” (29.4%), and “avoid driving” (19.8%); 16% of the direct warnings were about not driving. Medication’s effects on driving were recognized by 80% of the total respondents. The degree of awareness was significantly higher among respondents taking medications that prohibit driving than among those taking medications that did not prohibit driving or those taking unknown medications. Awareness of medicine’s influence on driving was associated with health literacy. No association was found between age, gender, health literacy, history of side effects, and driving and medication-taking behavior. Approximately 22% of respondents adjusted their medication use at their discretion and 39% maintained treatment compliance but continued driving. Among respondents taking medications that prohibit driving, whether driving was required for work was a significant factor in their driving and medication-taking behavior after being warned.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals do not always fully inform patients about the driving-related risks of medications. To encourage patients who are taking medications that have a significant impact on their driving to either stop driving or consult a healthcare professional, healthcare professionals must first understand the patient’s social environment, such as whether driving is required for work, and then create an environment conducive to advice-seeking.