bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-occurrence of Relapsing Polychondoritis and Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases
Authors: Nakajima Toshiki , Yoshifuji Hajime , Yamano Yoshihisa , Yurugi Kimiko , Miura Yasuo , Maekawa Taira , Yoshida Tsuneyasu , Handa Hiroshi , Ohmura Koichiro , Mimori Tsuneyo , Terao Chikashi
Published: October 2021

Background: Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent inflammation and destruction of cartilageous tissues. RP has characteristics of autoimmune disease and some reports have noted co-occurrence with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD), consisting of Graves’ disease (GD) and Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT). However there have been no detailed studies on the co-occurrence of RP and AITD. In this study, we aimed to determine whether patients with RP tend to be complicated with AITD. We also analyzed clinical and genetic profiles of patients in whom these diseases co-occur.Methods: We recruited 117 patients with RP and reviewed their medical records. Furthermore, we genotyped Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA)-A, B Cw, DRB1, DQB1 and DPB1 alleles for 93 of the 117 patients. The prevalence of AITD among the patients with RP was compared with that among the general Japanese population. We also analyzed the clinical and genetic features of the patients with both RP and AITD.Results: The prevalence of GD among the patients with RP was 4.3% (5 among 117 patients), significantly higher than that among Japanese (0.11%) (p=2.44×10-7, binomial test). RP patients with GD tended to have nasal involvement (p=0.023) (odds ratio (OR) 2.58) and HLA-DPB1*02:02 (p=0.035, OR 10.41). We did not find significant enrichment of HT in patients with RP.Conclusions: Patients with RP appear to be at elevated risk of GD. Nasal involvement and HLA-DPB1*02:02 may characterize the subset of RP patients with GD, which may guide attempts to characterize distinct subtype of RP for precision medicine.
Helicobacter Pylori Caga Status and Gastric Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Keikha Masoud , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Yamaoka Yoshio , Karbalaei Mohsen
Published: October 2021

Background
Recent studies have investigated the role of Helicobacter pylori infection in the development of gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. It is estimated that approximately 0.1% of people infected with H. pylori develop gastric MALT lymphoma. However, the role of the CagA antigen, the highest causative agent of H. pylori, in increasing the risk of gastric MALT lymphoma remains unclear and controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate the effect of cagA status on the development of gastric MALT lymphoma.
Methods
All articles evaluating the status of the cagA gene in the development of gastric MALT lymphoma were collected using systematic searches in online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar, regardless of publication date. The association between cagA and gastric MALT lymphoma was assessed using the odds ratio (OR) summary. In addition, a random-effects model was used in cases with significant heterogeneity.
Results
A total of 10 studies met our inclusion criteria, among which 1,860 patients participated. No association between cagA status and the development of MALT lymphoma (extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma) was found in this study (OR: 1.30; 0.906–1.866 with 95% CIs; I2: 45.83; Q-Value: 12.92). Surprisingly, a meaningful association was observed between cagA status and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (OR: 6.43; 2.45–16.84 with 95% CIs). We also observed an inverse association between vacA and gastric MALT lymphoma risk (OR: 0.92; 0.57–1.50 with 95% CIs).
Conclusions
It seems that the infection with cagA-positive H. pylori strains does not have a meaningful effect on the gastric MALT lymphoma formation, while translocated CagA antigen into the B cells plays a crucial role in the development of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
Predictors of the Relationship Between the Duration of Cancer and Care Time with the Supportive Care Needs of Patients and the Quality of Life of Their Caregivers: A Path Analysis
Authors: Attari Seyedeh Maryam , mahmoodi Zohreh , Nimekari Mozhgan Mohammadzadeh , Nasiri Malihe , taziani Yaghoub Ashouri , Ozgoli Giti
Published: October 2021

Background Breast cancer patients face various material, and the mutual impact of patients and caregivers on each other show the need for further supportive care from the community and family. This study aimed to identify the predictors of the direct and indirect relationships of the duration of cancer and care time with the supportive needs of the patients and the quality of life of their family caregivers.Methods This descriptive-analytical study was carried out on 150 patients and their caregivers in Iran. Data were collected using the Supportive Care Needs Survey-short form (SCNS-SF34), the Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC) scale, and a socio-demographic checklist and were then analyzed in SPSS-24 and Lisrel-8.8 software using descriptive-analytical statistics and path analysis.Results The mean age of the patients and caregivers was 45.76±10.44 and 43.46±9.5, respectively. Based on the test results, the duration of cancer was positively correlated with the total score of supportive needs in both paths (B=0.799). The patients’ sexuality needs had the highest negative correlation with their duration of cancer in the direct path (B=-0.87) and psychological needs the highest negative correlation in the indirect path (B=-0.32). The care time (in hours) had the highest positive correlation with the total score of supportive needs (B=15.6) in both the direct and indirect paths, and the highest positive correlation with physical needs in the direct path (B=10.65). The caregivers’ quality of life had a negative and direct relationship with the duration of cancer (B=-0.27) and there was a positive and direct relationship between care time and the caregivers’ quality of life (B=3.09). Conclusions Duration of cancer and care time had the highest positive correlation with the patients’ supportive needs, and the caregivers’ quality of life had a negative correlation with the duration of cancer and a positive correlation with care time. It is therefore vital to emphasize the design and implementation of supportive care programs for breast cancer patients and their family caregivers.
Leukocyte telomere length and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xia Kailin , Zhang Linjing , Zhang Gan , Wang Yajun , Huang Tao , Fan Dongsheng
Published: October 2021

Background
Observational studies have suggested that telomere length is associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, it remains unclear whether this association is causal. We employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to explore the causal relationship between leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and ALS based on the most cited and most recent and largest LTL genome-wide association studies (GWASs) that measured LTL with the Southern blot method (n = 9190) and ALS GWAS summary data (n = 80,610). We adopted the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method to examine the effect of LTL on ALS and used the weighted median method, simple median method, MR Egger method and MR PRESSO method to perform sensitivity analyses.
Results
We found that genetically determined longer LTL was inversely associated with the risk of ALS (OR = 0.846, 95% CI: 0.744–0.962, P = 0.011), which was mainly driven by rs940209 in the OBFC1 gene, suggesting a potential effect of OBFC1 on ALS. In sensitivity analyses, that was confirmed in MR Egger method (OR = 0.647,95% CI = 0.447–0.936, P = 0.050), and a similar trend was shown with the weighted median method (OR = 0.893, P = 0.201) and simple median method (OR = 0.935 P = 0.535). The MR Egger analyses did not suggest directional pleiotropy, showing an intercept of 0.025 (P = 0.168). Neither the influence of instrumental outliers nor heterogeneity was found.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that genetically predicted longer LTL has a causal relationship with a lower risk of ALS and underscore the importance of protecting against telomere loss in ALS.
Implementation of Real Time Hybrid Simulation Based On GPU Computing
Authors: Tang Zhenyun , Dong Xiaohui , Li Zhenbao , Du Xiuli
Published: October 2021

With combination of physical experiment and numerical simulation, real-time hybrid simulation (RTHS) can enlarge the dimensions of testing specimens and improve the testing accuracy. However, due to the limitation of computing capacity, the maximum degrees of freedom for numerical substructure are less than 7000 from the reported RTHS testing. It cannot meet the testing requirements for evaluating the dynamic performance of large and complex engineering structures. Taking advantages of parallel computing toolbox (PCT) in Matlab and high-performance computing of graphics processing unit (GPU). A RTHS framework based on MATLAB and GPU was established in this work. Using this framework, a soil-structure interaction system (SSI) was tested by a shaking table based RTHS. Meanwhile, the dynamic response of this SSI system was simulated by finite element analysis. The comparison of simulation and testing results demonstrated that the proposed testing framework can implement RTHS testing successfully. Using this method, the maximum degrees of freedom for numerical substructure can reach to 27,000, which significantly enhance the testing capacity of RTHS testing for large and complex engineering structures.
Endoscopic Endonasal Supraoptic and Infraoptic Approaches for Complex “Parasuprasellar” Lesions: Surgical Anatomy, Technique Nuances, and Case Series
Authors: Bao You Yuan , Yang You Qing , Zhou Lin , Xie Shen Hao , Wu Xiao , Ding Han , Wu Jie , Xiao Li Min , Yang Le , Tang Bin , Hong Tao
Published: October 2021

Surgical management of lesions involving the lateral area of the suprasellar region, including the lateral aspect of the planum sphenoidale and a tight junction region of the optic canal (OC), the anterior clinoid process (ACP), and the internal carotid artery (ICA) and its dural rings, is extremely challenging. Here, the authors introduce two novels endoscopic endonasal supraoptic (EESO) and endoscopic endonasal infraoptic (EEIO) approaches to access these regions, namely, “parasuprasellar” area. Surgical simulation of the EESO and EEIO approaches to the parasuprasellar area was conducted in 5 silicon-injected specimens. The same techniques were applied in 12 patients involving the parasuprasellar area.The EESO and EEIO approaches can be used independently or in combination, but are more often employed as a complement to the endoscopic endonasal midline approach and transcavernous approach. In clinical application, the EESO and EEIO approaches were successfully performed in 12 patients harboring tumors and multiple aneurysms involving the parasuprasellar area. Gross total and subtotal tumor resection were achieved in 9 patients and 1 patient, respectively. For two patients with multiple aneurysms, the lesions were clipped selectively according to location and size. Visual acuity improved in 7 patients, remained stable in 4, and deteriorated in only 1. No postoperative intracranial infection or ICA injury occurred in this series. The EESO and EEIO approaches can be combined with the current endoscopic endonasal midline approach and transcavernous approach to remove extensive pathologies involving the intrasellar, suprasellar, sphenoid, and cavernous sinuses and even bifurcation of the ICA.
ULTRARAM™: a low-energy, high-endurance, compound-semiconductor memory on silicon
Authors: Hodgson Peter , Lane Dominic , Carrington Peter , Delli Evangelia , Beanland Richard , Hayne Manus
Published: October 2021

ULTRARAM is a non-volatile memory with the potential to achieve fast, ultralow-energy electron storage in a floating gate accessed through a triple-barrier resonant tunneling heterostructure. Here we report its implementation on a Si substrate; a vital step towards cost-effective mass production. Sample growth using molecular beam epitaxy commenced with deposition of an AlSb nucleation layer to seed the growth of a GaSb buffer layer, followed by the III-V memory epilayers. Fabricated single-cell memories show clear 0/1 logic-state contrast after ≤10-ms duration program/erase pulses of ~2.5 V, a remarkably fast switching speed for 10- and 20-µm devices. Furthermore, the combination of low voltage and small device capacitance per unit area results in a switching energy that is orders of magnitude lower than dynamic random access memory and flash, for a given cell size. Extended testing of devices revealed retention in excess of 1000 years, and degradation-free endurance of over 107 program/erase cycles, surpassing very recent results for similar devices on GaAs substrates.
Nanoliposome-Encapsulated Phenolic Rich Fraction From Alcea Rosea as a Dietary Phytobiotic in Mice Challenged by Escherichia Coli
Authors: Hassirian Niloofar , Karimi Ehsan , Oskoueian Ehsan
Published: October 2021

Purpose
This research was performed to evaluate the antibacterial and health-promoting potentials of the nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic rich fraction (PRF) from Alcea rosea leaves as a dietary phytobiotic in mice challenged by enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coil; O157: H7).
Method:
The PEF was encapsulated in nanoliposomes (PEF-NLs) and the phenolic profiling of PEF-NLs was confirmed by HPLC. Then 40 white male balb/c mice at four treatment groups were provided and antibacterial potential of PEF-NLs were assessed by measuring the mice blood parameters and liver lipid peroxidation in mice infected by E. coli. Finally, the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were determined in miceʼs ileum tissues. Meanwhile, relative fold changes in the ileum population of E. coli was analyzed using Real time PCR.
Results
The overall results demonstrated that the nanoliposome-loaded PRF contained gallic acid, salicylic acid, pyrogallol, cinnamic acid, catechin, naringin, ferulic acid. The E. coil challenge in mice impaired the weight gain, food intake, liver enzymes, lipid peroxidation, morphometric characteristics of the ileum, up-regulated the inflammatory genes (COX2, iNOS), down-regulated the antioxidant-related genes (SOD and GPx) and increased the population of E. coil in the ileum. The dietary inclusion of nonencapsulated PRF and nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF at the concentration of 10 mg TPC/kg BW/day improved these parameters however the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF appeared to be more effective as compared to nonencapsulated PRF in improving the health parameters in mice.
Conclusion
Consequently, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could play a critical role as a promising phytobiotic against E. coil infection in mice.
Novel exosome biomarker candidates for Alzheimer´s disease unraveled through Mass Spectrometry analysis
Authors: Martins Tânia Soares , Marçalo Rui , Silva Cristóvão B. da Cruz e , Trindade Dário , Catita José , Amado Francisco , Melo Tânia , Rosa Ilka Martins , Vogelgsang Jonathan , Wiltfang Jens , Silva Odete A. B. da Cruz e , Henriques Ana Gabriela
Published: October 2021

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles (EVs) present in human biofluids that can transport specific disease-associated molecules. Consequently blood-derived exosomes have emerged as important peripheral biomarker sources for a wide range of diseases, among them Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although there is no effective cure for AD, an accurate diagnosis, relying on easily accessible peripheral biofluids, is still necessary to discriminate this disease from other dementias, test potential therapies and even monitor rate of disease progression. The ultimate goal is to produce a cost-effective and widely available alternative, which can also be employed as a first clinical screen. In this study, EVs with exosome-like characteristics were isolated from serum of Controls and AD cases through precipitation- and column-based methods, followed by mass spectrometry analysis. The resulting proteomes were characterized by Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and multivariate analyses. Although GO terms were similar for exosomes proteomes of Controls and ADs, using both methodologies, a clear segregation of disease cases was obtained when using the precipitation-based method. Nine significantly different abundant proteins were identified between Controls and AD cases, representing putative biomarker candidate targets. Among them AACT and C4BPα, two Aβ-binding proteins, whose exosome levels were further validated in individuals from independent cohorts using antibody-based approaches. The findings discussed represent an important contribution to the identification of novel exosomal biomarker candidates useful as potential blood-based tools for AD diagnosis.
Air Quality of Work, Residential, and Traffic Areas During the COVID-19 Lockdown with Insights to Improve Air Quality
Authors: Alharbi Badr H , Alhazmi Hatem A , Aldhafeeri Zaid
Published: October 2021

This study investigated the concentrations of air pollutants (NO, NO2, NOx, SO2, CO, O3, PM10, and PM2.5) at three sites with different traffic loads (work, residential, and traffic sites) before, during, and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects and associated potential pollution control implications of the lockdown on the quality of ambient air at three selected sites in the urban area of Riyadh City. The average concentrations of NO, NO2, NOx, and CO decreased during the lockdown period by 73%, 44%, 53%, and 32% at the work site, 222%, 85%, 100%, and 60% at the residential site, and 133%, 60%, 101%, and 103% at the traffic site relative to the pre-lockdown period, respectively. The average concentration of O3 increased by 6% at the work site, whereas the concentration of SO2 increased by 27% at the residential site and decreased by 6.5% at the work site. The changes in PM10 and PM2.5 varied and did not exhibit a clear pattern. The air quality index (AQI) results indicated that the contribution to “undesired” air quality by O3 was 35.29% of the lockdown period at the work site while contributions to undesired air quality by PM10 and PM2.5 were 75.6% and 100% at the work site, 94.5% and 100% at the residential site, and 96.7% and 100% at the traffic site, respectively. The findings of this study are useful for devising effective urban pollution abatement policies. Applying control measures comparable to the lockdown measures over one week will result in a decrease of approximately 19% and 15% in CO mean concentration and 25% and 18% in NO2 mean concentration at residential and traffic sites, respectively. Significant mitigation of urban air pollution could be accomplished through intermittent implementations of strict pollution control measures.
Multiple Roles of Bamboo As A Regulator of Cyanobacterial Bloom In Aquatic Systems
Authors: Hao Aimin , Su Mengyao , Kobayashi Sohei , Zhao Min , Iseri Yasushi
Published: October 2021

To understand the potential roles of terrestrial bamboo on controlling cyanobacterial blooms in aquatic systems, growth rates of the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa and its competitor algae were examined under different concentrations of bamboo extract. In mono-species cultures with unicellular algal strains, 5.0 g L−1 extract treatment suppressed M. aeruginosa growth, while it had little effect on the growth of green alga Scenedesmus obliquus or promoted the growth of diatom Nitzschia palea. In co-species cultures, the extract treatment increased the effect of S. obliquus and N. palea on the growth of M. aeruginosa. Under the extract treatment with a field-collected M. aeruginosa population, its cell density declined and its colony was etiolated and sank, while co-cultured N. palea increased explosively by invading the colony. These results suggest that bamboo forest stands along banks and artificially installed bamboo poles can affect the aquatic environment for phytoplankton community. Enhancing the growth of competitors, especially diatoms that can invade cyanobacterial colonies, by using extracts or by providing substrates for growth, was suggested to be the major way of the bloom control by bamboo.
Disseminated Strongyloides Stercoralis Hyperinfection in An Immunocompetent Patient First Diagnosed by Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing in Cerebrospinal Fluid: A Case Report
Authors: Qu Junyan , Zong Zhiyong
Published: October 2021

Background

Disseminated Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection is rarely described in immunocompetent individuals and can lead to fatal outcomes if not recognized and diagnosed early. Non-specific clinical manifestations, such as pneumonia and gastroenteritis, pose a diagnostic dilemma.
Case presentation:

We report a case of a 67-year-old Chinese male who presented with two months of abdominal pain, fever, headache, vomiting, constipation, and slight cough with sputum. He had been in good health and had no history of glucocorticoid use. He was diagnosed with enterococcal meningitis and intestinal obstruction at a local hospital and improved after treatment with vancomycin, but symptoms of headache and abdominal pain soon recurred. The metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of the cerebrospinal fluid using Illumina X10 sequencer revealed 7 sequence reads matching Strongyloides stercoralis. Disseminated strongyloidiasis was suspected. Next, microscopic examination of gastric fluid revealed Larvae of S. stercoralis. DNA extracted of larvae, the presence of both S. stercoralis ribosomal DNA gene and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene was identified. Disseminated strongyloidiasis was diagnosed. Albendazole (400 mg, twice daily) was used and the patient recovered gradually.
Conclusions

S. stercoralis hyperinfection can occur in immunocompetent individuals, imposing challenges for diagnosis. mNGS may be a useful tool for detecting rare infectious disease. The case would help clinicians to raise awareness of strongyloidiasis in non-endemic areas and reduce fatality.
Expression of Early Growth Responsive Gene-1 in The Visual Cortex of Monocular Form Deprivation Amblyopic Kittens
Authors: Fan Haobo , Wang Ying , Tang Xiuping , Yang Liyuan , Song Weiqi , Zou Yunchun
Published: October 2021

Purpose
The present study compared the expression of early growth responsive gene-1 (Egr-1) in visual cortex between amblyopia kittens and normal kittens, and to explore the role of Egr-1 in the pathogenesis of amblyopia.
Methods
A total of 20 healthy kittens were randomly divided into deprivation group and control group with 10 kittens in each group. Raised in natural light, and cover the right eye of the deprived kittens with a black opaque covering cloth. Pattern visual evoked potentials (PVEP) were measured before and at the 1st, 3rd and 5th week after covering in all kittens. After the last PVEP test, all kittens were killed. The expression of Egr-1 in the visual cortex of the two groups was compared by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization.
Results
PVEP detection showed that at age of 6 and 8 weeks, the P100 wave latency in the right eye of deprivation group was higher than that in the left eye of deprivation group (P < 0.05) and the right eye of control group (P < 0.05), while the amplitude decreased (P < 0.05). The number of positive cells (P < 0.05) and mean optical density (P < 0.05) of Egr-1 protein expression in visual cortex of 8-week-old deprivation group were lower than those of normal group, as well as the number (P < 0.05) and mean optical density of Egr-1 mRNA-positive cells (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Monocular form deprivation amblyopia can lead to the decrease of Egr-1 protein and mRNA expression in visual cortex, and then promote the occurrence and development of amblyopia.
YOD1 Serves as a Potential Prognostic Biomarker For Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhang Zhishuo , Zhao Wenxia , Li Yiming , Li Yang , Liu Yang , Liu Hao , Shao Rongguang
Published: October 2021

Background Ubiquitination is a basic post-translational modification of intracellular proteins and can be reversed enzymatically by DUBs (deubiquitinating enzymes). More than 90 DUBs have been identified. Among them, the deubiquitinating enzyme YOD1, a member of the ovarian tumor domain protease (OTUs) subfamily, is involved in the regulation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-related degradation pathways. In fact, it is reported that YOD1 is an important proliferation and metastasis-inducing gene, which can stimulate the characteristics of cancer stem cells and maintain circulating tumor cells (CTC). However, the expression level, prognostic effect, biological function and mechanism of YOD1 in pancreatic cancer are still unclear. ResultsIn the GEO and TCGA databases, YOD1 mRNA expression is significantly up-regulated in a variety of human pancreatic cancer tissues. Survival analysis showed that the up-regulation of YOD1 can predict poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer. Cox analysis showed that high YOD1 expression is an independent prognostic factor of pancreatic cancer. ROC analysis shows that YOD1 has significant diagnostic value. The immunohistochemistry (IHC) results showed that the protein expression level of YOD1 in pancreatic cancer tissue was higher than that in neighboring non-pancreatic cancer tissues (P<0.001). In addition, we found that YOD1 expression is negatively correlated with the infiltration level of CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils and dendritic cells (DC) in pancreatic cancer. The expression of YOD1 has a strong correlation with the different immune marker sets in PAAD. Co-expression network and functional enrichment analysis indicate that YOD1 may participate in the development of pancreatic cancer through cell adhesion molecules, p53, Hippo, TGF-β and other pathways. The experimental results of EDU, Transwell and Western blot indicate that YOD1 is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer cells and pancreatic cancer tissues, and its overexpression can promote the proliferation and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells.Conclusion Our results indicate that YOD1 may be a useful biomarker for the prognosis of human pancreatic cancer, and it may also be a potential molecular target for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Hi-C-LSTM: Learning representations of chromatin contacts using a recurrent neural network identifies genomic drivers of 3D genome conformation
Authors: Dsouza Kevin , Maslova Alexandra , Al-Jibury Ediem , Merkenschlager Matthias , Bhargava Vijay , Libbrecht Maxwell
Published: October 2021

Despite the availability of chromatin conformation capture experiments, discerning the relationship between the 1D genome and 3D conformation remains a challenge, which limits our understanding of their affect on gene expression and disease. We propose Hi-C-LSTM, a method that produces low-dimensional latent representations that summarize intra-chromosomal Hi-C contacts via a recurrent long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network model. We find that these representations contain all the information needed to recreate the original Hi-C matrix with high accuracy, outperforming existing methods. These representations enable the identification of a variety of conformation-defining genomic elements, including nuclear compartments and conformation-related transcription factors. They furthermore enable in-silico perturbation experiments that measure the influence of cis-regulatory elements on conformation.
Validation of Responsiveness of Physicians Scale (ROP-Scale) for Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients in Bangladesh
Authors: Joarder Taufique , Islam Mohammad Aminul , Islam Md Shariful , Mostari Shabnam , Hasan Md. Tanvir
Published: October 2021

BackgroundResponsiveness of Physicians (ROP) is defined as the social actions by physicians aimed at meeting the legitimate expectations of healthcare users. Even though patients’ expectations regarding ROP have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, the psychometrically-validated ROP-Scale is difficult to apply in hospital settings. The goal of this study is to validate the existing ROP-Scale to measure the responsiveness of hospital physicians during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional phone survey involving 213 COVID-19 hospital patients, randomly selected from the government database. We applied the Delphi method for content validity, exploratory factor analysis for construct validity, Cronbach's alpha and corrected item-total correlation for internal consistency reliability, and Pearson's correlation between the scale and overall patient satisfaction for concurrent validity.ResultsAfter removing survey items based on data sufficiency, collinearity, factor loading, and internal consistency, the final version of the COVID-19 ROP-Scale consisted of 12 items, grouped under Courteousness, Informativeness, Financial Sensitivity, and Treatment Provision Sensitivity domains. The scale was internally consistent, with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.83. The corrected item-total correlation ranged between 0.37 and 0.72. Concurrent validity was ascertained by the high correlation (0.78) between patient satisfaction and the COVID-19 ROP-Scale. Based on the median domain score, the highest- and the lowest-scoring responsiveness domain was 'Courteousness' (7.45) and 'Financial sensitivity' (1.85), respectively, whereas the highest- and the lowest-scoring item was 'Respect during the consultation' (8.16), and 'Providing treatment cost estimate before starting treatment' (1.78).ConclusionsThe 12-item COVID-19 ROP-Scale was demonstrated to be feasible, valid, and internally consistent. Therefore, at a time when many countries, including Bangladesh, have started experiencing new pandemic waves, its application can help amend past mistakes in health service provision and improve care for the hospitalised COVID-19 patients or other patients suffering from similar conditions. This study can contribute to the national decision-making regarding hospital care, open up further avenues in the health policy and system research, and eventually improve the quality of care provided to Bangladeshi patients seeking hospital services. Moreover, findings yielded by this study can be incorporated into doctors' medical education and in-service training.
Immune Features of COVID-19 Convalescent Individuals Revealed by a Single-cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Zhao Pingsen , Zou Jiahua , Zhou Fan , Zhu Yanyan , Song Qibin , Yu Dongdong , Li Xiangpan
Published: October 2021

Background: The immune response to SARS-CoV-2 is critical in both controlling primary infection and preventing re-infection. However, it remains unclear whether immune responses following natural infection can be sustained or potentially prove critical for long-term immune protection against SARS-CoV-2 reinfection. Here, we systematically mapped the phenotypic landscape of SARS-CoV-2-specific immune responses in peripheral blood samples of 4 healthy donors and 13 convalescent patients with COVID-19, including moderate and severe cases, by single-cell RNA sequencing. Results: The relative percentage of the CD8+ effector memory subset was increased in both convalescent moderate and severe cases, but NKT-CD160 and maginal zone B clusters were decreased. Innate immune responses were attenuated reflected by decreased expression of genes involved in interferon-gamma, leukocyte migration and neutrophil mediated immune response in convalescent COVID-19 patients. Functions of T cell were strengthened in convalescent COVID-19 patients by clear endorsement of increased expression of genes involved in biological processes of regulation of T cell activation, differentiation and cell-cell adhesion. In addition, T cell mediated immune responses were enhanced with remarkable clonal expansions of TCR and increased transition of CD4+ effector memory and CD8+ effector-GNLY in severe subjects. B cell immune responses displayed sophisticated and dual functions during convalescence of COVID-19, providing a novel mechanism that B cell activation was observed especially in moderate while humoral immune response was weakened. Interestingly, HLA class I genes displayed downregulation while HLA class II genes upregulation in both T and B cell subsets in convalescent individuals. Notably, some unique IGV genes in severe patients may facilitate the design of vaccines. Conclusions: Our collective dataset showed that innate immunity was declined but SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell responses were retained even strengthened whereas sophisticated and dual functions of B cells, including declined humoral immunity were presented at several months following infections, which provided insights into evaluation of possibility of reinfection of exposed individuals with COVID-19 and facilitation to design of effective therapeutics and vaccines.
Nintedanib reduces corticosteroid resistance pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin in mice by increasing the expression of β3 & β6 integrins
Authors: alghamdi doha omar , Kawy Hala S Abdel , Damanhouri zuhair A
Published: October 2021

Background: Corticosteroid resistance pulmonary fibrosis is a major health problem. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of nintedanib on corticosteroid resistance pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin in mice. Methods: The mice were divided into five groups 12 mice each. control group, BLM group received single dose of bleomycin (BLM), BLM+MP group received BLM and methylprednisolone (MP), BLM+NIN group received BLM and nintedanib(NIN) and BLM + NIN + MP group. The lung tissues were obtained for biochemical analysis, gene expression and histopathological examination on day 7 and day 28. Results: after 7 days, both NIN groups showed a significant decrease in the levels of interleukin-2, interleukin-4, interferon-gamma, lung tumor necrosis factor-alpha, Malondialdehyde and lung water content with a significant increase in the Glutathione level in lung tissues compared to MP group. After 28 days, both NIN groups showed a significant reduction in hydroxyproline, and Trans-forming Growth Factor beta lung tissues contents compared to MP group, and they showed a positive effect on the expression of β 3 &β6 integrins compared to the negative effect of MP group. Histopathologically, both NIN groups showed significant improvement compared to MP group by H&E and Masson’s trichrome stains. Immunohistochemical staining revealed negative BCL-2 expression in the cytoplasm of bronchiolar epithelium in both NIN groups after 7 and 28 days of treatment. Lung tissue morphometric studies showed significant improvement of pathological changes induced by BLM in both NIN groups. Conclusions: Altogether, our data indicates that nintedanib overcame corticosteroid resistance pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin.
DE-T1 On The Blastocyst Obtained Rate and Live Births Rates in Women Receiving IVF-ET Treatment
Authors: SHAO Hui , YAMAGUCHI Yoji , NOZAKI Toshiaki , BAI Li , DONG Xi , YANG Dongzi , JIAO Shuang , OTSUKI Junko , KOKEGUCHI Shoji , SHIOTANI Masahide
Published: October 2021

Background
Our objective was to retrospectively analyze the influence of DE-T1, a type of amino-polysaccharide extracted from dandelions, on the rates of blastocysts obtained and live births in women undergoing IVF-ET treatment.
Methods
This was a retrospective cohort study, conducting a total of 1014 patients over the age of 30, who received IVF treatment at Hanabusa Women’s clinic from Aug. 1, 2012 to Feb. 29, 2020. The patients were divided into two groups, based on their own choice regarding DE-T1 supplementation, which is available as over the counter medicine at the Clinic. The two groups’ overall rates of blastocysts obtained were compared and the rates of blastocysts obtained in patients with different ages and Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels were also compared using an Intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. Among the patients who completed embryo transfers (ET), the live birth rate was compared between the supplementation group and the non-supplementation group using a Chi-squared test.
Results
The blastocyst obtained rate in the supplementation group was 75.98%, which was significantly higher than that of 57.28% in the non-supplementation group (P=2.4×109). The blastocyst obtained rate across the range of ages in the supplementation group were significantly higher than those of the non-supplementation group (≥30 and <35 years of age: 90.97% vs 74.32%, P=0.001;≥35 and <40 years of age: 82.40% vs 69.79%, P= 0.010; ≥40 and <43 years of age: 72.90% vs 52.11%, P=0.002; ≥43 years of age: 53.29% vs 22.95%, P= 5.7×105). The blastocyst obtained rate for both AMH levels in the supplementation group were significantly higher than those of the non-supplementation group (AMH≤1.1: 56.47% vs 40.44%, P=0.002; AMH> 1.1: 88.48% vs 71.08%, P=2.52×107). The live birth rate of the supplementation group was significantly higher than that of the non-supplementation group (57.53% vs. 40.0%, P=0.045).
Conclusion
DE-T1 supplementation might be an influence on improving the blastocyst obtained rate and live birth rates in women receiving IVF-ET treatment. DE-T1 supplementation might be of benefit to women of different ages and AMH levels.
Productivity Spillovers From Foreign Direct Investment To Ethiopian Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Wajebo Temesgen Woldamanuel
Published: October 2021

The study attempted to investigate productivity spillover from FDI to domestic firms in Ethiopian manufacturing industries. The analysis was conducted using panel data for the years 2011 up to 2016 on 260 large and medium scale-manufacturing firms deployed under 24 industries. The System Generalized Method of Moments (SYS-GMM) estimator was employed to conduct the analysis. Accordingly, the study found that a coexistence of both negative and positive effects from FDI through productivity spillover to domestically owned firms using absorptive capacity as determining factor of spillover occurrence in moderate level. Specifically, foreign presence in industry contributed a positive and significant horizontal and backward productivity spillover effect to domestic firms within the industry in average level. The horizontal productivity spillover transmitted to local firms through demonstration and competition effects in moderate level. Likewise, vertical productivity spillover occurred through the channel of sales of intermediate goods and services to foreign firms. Finally, we can conclude that technology gap is critical factor among those factors that determines the productivity spillover occurrence.
Study Protocol: A Hybrid Delivery of Home-Based Cluster Set Resistance Training for Individuals Previously Treated for Lung Cancer
Authors: Fairman Ciaran M , Owens Otis L , Kendall Kristina L , Steele James , Latella C , Jones Morgan T , Marcotte Lauren , Peddle-McIntyre Carolyn J , McDonnell Karen K
Published: October 2021

Background: Symptom burden remains a critical concern for individuals with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) following the completion of treatment. The most common symptom clusters, dyspnea (shortness of breath) and fatigue,can contribute to physical decline, reductions in quality of life, and a higher risk of comorbidities and mortality. Dyspnea is a primary limiter of exercise capacity in individuals with lung cancer, resulting in exercise avoidance and an accelerated physical decline. As such, designing resistance training with cluster sets to mitigate symptoms of dyspnea and fatigue may result in improved exercise tolerance. Thus, maintainingthe exercise stimulus via cluster sets, combined with improved tolerance of the exercise, could result in maintenance of physical function and quality of life. The purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a hybrid-delivery home-based cluster-set resistance training program in individuals with NSCLC. Methods: Individuals with NSCLC (n=15), within 12-months of completion of treatment will be recruited to participate in this single arm feasibility trial. Participants will complete 8-weeks of home-based resistance training designed to minimizedyspnea and fatigue. The hybrid-delivery of the program will include supervised sessions in the participants’ home, and virtual supervision via video conferencing. The primary outcome of feasibility will be quantifiedby recruitment rates, retention, acceptability, and intervention fidelity. Exploratory outcomes (dyspnea, fatigue, quality of life, physical function, and body composition) will be assessed pre- and post- intervention. Discussion: This study will provide important data on the feasibility of delivering this intervention and inform procedures for a future randomized controlled trial. Trial Registration: Record not yet public
Inhibition of TGF-β Signaling Suppresses Th17 Differentiation and Promotes Treg Numbers but does not Reduces Experimental Arthritis
Authors: Aarts Joyce , Caam Arjan , Marijnissen Renoud M. , Helsen Monique M. , Walgreen Birgitte , Vitters Elly L. , Loo Fons A. , Lent Peter L. , Koenders Marije I , Kraan Peter van der
Published: October 2021

ObjectivesTGF-β is an important growth factor to promote the differentiation of T helper 17 (Th17) and regulatory T cells (Treg). The potential of TGF-β as therapeutic target in T cell-mediated diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is unclear. We investigated the effect of TGF-β inhibition on murine Th17 differentiation in vitro, on human RA synovial explants ex vivo, and on the development of experimental arthritis in vivo. MethodsMurine splenocytes were differentiated into Th17 cells, and the effect of the TGF-βRI inhibitor SB-505124 was studied. Synovial biopsies were cultured in the presence or absence of SB-505124. Experimental arthritis was induced in C57Bl6 mice and treated daily with SB-505124. FACS analysis was performed to measure different T cell subsets. Histological sections were analysed to determine joint inflammation and destruction.ResultsSB-505124 potently reduced murine Th17 differentiation by decreasing Il7a and Rorc gene expression and IL-17 protein production. SB-505124 significantly suppressed IL-6 production by synovial explants. In vivo, SB-505124 reduced Th17 levels, while increased levels of Tregs were observed. Despite this skewed Th17/Treg balance, SB-505124 treatment did not result in suppression of joint inflammation and destruction.ConclusionsBlocking TGF-β signalling suppresses Th17 differentiation and improves the Th17/Treg balance. However, SB-505124 treatment does not suppress experimental arthritis.
An Analysis About The Impact of Monetary Policy Shocks On The Flow of Funds Account: The Case of Iran
Authors: Barzani Mohammad Vaez , Ebrahimi Meymanat , Torki Leila , Heydari Hassan
Published: October 2021

The flow of funds account provides information on various economic sectors’ financial transactions. The present study has investigated the impact of monetary shocks on the dynamics of lending and borrowing of various economic sectors such as households, non-financial enterprises, the banks, the Central Bank of Iran (CBI), the government, and the foreign sector as well as the changes in financial assets and liabilities of mentioned sectors. An accurate analyzing in this regard could provide helpful guidance in making the appropriate policies for influencing macroeconomic variables. For this purpose, a FAVAR model was employed using data from 1973-2017. It was concluded that monetary shocks increased both the acquisition of new financial assets and the issuance of new liabilities of various national economic sectors and the banks were net borrowers from other economic sectors while other sectors – except the non-financial enterprises and the government that response with a delay– were net lenders in the first year. However, all national economic sectors turned into lenders and the foreign sector had become the borrower after the first year is passed. The reason for this appears to be the difference between domestic and foreign interest rate. Net capital outflow occurs for two years significantly.
Characterization of rice farming systems, production constraints and determinants of adoption of improved varieties by smallholder farmers of the Republic of Benin
Authors: LOKO Yêyinou Laura Estelle , GBEMAVO Charlemagne D.S.J. , DJEDATIN Gustave , EWEDJE Eben-Ezer , OROBIYI Azize , TOFFA Joelle , TCHAKPA Cyrille , SEDAH Paulin , SABOT François
Published: October 2021

The Republic of Benin has the potential to reduce its heavy dependence on rice imports to meet the needs of its population. For that, the identification of technological and policy interventions allowing to improve the performance of Beninese rice systems is necessary. This study therefore characterized the Beninese rice farming systems and identified the production constraints in the country's different rice-growing areas, and determinants of the adoption of improved varieties by farmers. Four hundred eighteen rice farm households were surveyed across 39 villages using participatory research tools and methods. An hierarchical cluster analysis were used to classify the surveyed farm households into rice farming systems based on household socio-demographic characteristics, farm resources, farming practices and access to agricultural extension services. The cluster analysis revealed four typologies of rice farming systems differentiated by 8 variables. These are, the semi-intensive rice farming system (cluster 1), subsistence rice farming (cluster 2), integrated rice–livestock farming system (cluster 3), and intensive rice farming system (cluster 4). The integrated rice–livestock farming system was the dominant type practiced in the northern Benin, while, it is the intensive rice farming system in the south. Fifteen production constraints across rice-growing areas were recorded, with the lack of agricultural machinery and credits as the most important. The land ownership, risk aversion, production of off-season rice, and contact of farmers with non-governmental organizations positively influenced the adoption of improved rice varieties. Our results suggest that initiatives to boost rice production in Republic of Benin should prioritize the establishment of formal agricultural credit and mechanization option policies. We recommend training of rice farmers on modern production techniques. To increase adoption of improved rice varieties, agricultural extension services should target landowners’ farmers practising off-season rice production, and having in addition to agricultural income, other income from various activities.
Natural Radionuclide (Gamma and Alpha Emitters) in Grain Samples Collected from Kerbala Governorate, Iraq
Authors: Hamzah Zahraa Saad , Hashim Abdalsattar , Abojassim Ali
Published: October 2021

The aim of this research is to detect nature radioactivity for gamma emitters (specific activity 238U, 232Th, and 40K) using NaI(Tl) detectors and alpha emitters (concentrations of 222Rn, 226Ra, and 238U) using CR-39 detectors in selected samples of grain that are collected from Kerbala governorate. Also, annual effective dose and some radiological parameters due to gamma and alpha emitters to assess the health risk were calculated. Results have been shown that the average value of specific activities for 238U, 232Th and 40K were 6.61±0.91 Bq/kg, 3.07±0.22 Bq/kg and 227.59±32.34 Bq/kg respectively, while the average value of alpha emitters concentrations for 222Rn, 226Ra, and 238U were 3.99±1.13 Bq/m3, 4.69±1.28 mBq/kg and 0.072±0.019 Bq/kg respectively. The results of average total of annual effective dose associated with the exposure due to gamma and alpha emitted from ingestion grain samples in the present study were 0.139±0.013 mSv/y and 0.172±0.047 µSv/y, respectively. The results of natural Radionuclide and radiological parameter hazard based on gamma and alpha emitters from grain samples were discovered to be within the world acceptable levels. Finally, natural radioactivity from the grain samples that collected from Kerbala governorate were safety for the human consumption.