bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A persistent neutrophil-associated immune signature characterises post-COVID19 pulmonary sequelae
Authors: George Peter , Reed Anna , Desai Sujal , Devaraj Anand , Faiez Tasnim Shahridan , Laverty Sarah , Liu Michael , Kamal Faisal , Man William , Kaul Sundeep , Singh Suveer , Lamb Georgia , Burgoyne Thomas , Pinto Andreia , Farne Hugo , Priya Alessia Dalla , Aswani Andrew , Patella Francesca , Borek Weronika , Dokal Arran , Xu Xiao-Ning , Kelleher Peter , Shah Anand , Singanayagam Aran
Published: February 2022

Persistent interstitial lung changes with associated symptoms occur in a proportion of individuals that have recovered from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) infection through unknown mechanisms. We studied individuals with severe COVID-19 longitudinally following recovery from acute illness. Subjects with interstitial lung changes at 3-6 months post-recovery had an upregulated neutrophil-associated immune signature including increased chemokines, proteases and markers of neutrophil extracellular traps detectable systemically. Similar pathways were enriched in the upper airway with a concomitant augmentation of antiviral type-I interferon signalling. Interaction analysis of the peripheral phosphoproteome identified enriched kinases critical for neutrophil inflammatory pathways. Repeat sampling indicated that full normalisation of radiological and functional changes has not yet been reached in many individuals by 12 months post-recovery. These data provide functional insight into mechanisms driving pulmonary sequelae of COVID-19 and provide a rational basis for development of future targeted approaches to prevent long-term complications.
Changes in the characteristics of dissolved organic matter released from sediment according to precipitation in the Namhan River, South Korea.
Authors: Oh Haeseong , Choi Jung Hyun
Published: February 2022

In this study, changes in the properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) released from sediments into water layers were investigated. To analyze the spatial and temporal variation in dissolved organic carbon (DOC), sediment and bottom water samples were collected upstream of the Gangcheon, Yeoju and Ipo weirs of the Namhan River during the rainy and non-rainy seasons. Vials containing the sediment and bottom water samples were incubated for seven days at 20 ℃ in the dark. Thereafter, the DOC concentration of the supernatant was analyzed at 0, 3 and 7 days of incubation. The results show that the change of bottom water DOC concentration resulted from the DOC released from the sediments. The initial DOC was significantly correlated with precipitation (p = 0.0042) and residence time (p = 0.0473). Furthermore, fluorescence analysis revealed that the DOM contained a significant quantity of hydrophilic and low-molecular-weight (LMW) organic matter in non-rainy season, and higher levels of hydrophobic and high-molecular-weight (HMW) organic matter were observed during the rainy season.
Effects of Gravitational Field of a Topological Defect on Statistical Properties of Heavy Quarkonia.
Authors: LIKENE André Aimé ATANGANA , ZARMA ALI , Ongodo Dieudonné Nga , Ema'a Jean Marie Ema'a , Abiama Patrice Ele , Bolie Germain Hubert Ben
Published: February 2022

The aim of this paper is to determine the behavior and statistical properties of non-relativistic heavy quarkonia interacting with the extended Cornel potential within a space-time generated by a cosmic-string. We extend the cornel potential by adding the inverse square potential plus the quadratic potential. We have calculated the energy eigenvalues and the corresponding eigenstates using the extended Nikiforov-Uvarov (NU) method. Then the thermodynamic properties like partition function, entropy, free energy, mean energy and specific heat capacity are calculated within the space-time of a cosmic-string. In the next step, we investigate the influence of the cosmic-string parameter on quantum states of heavy quarkonia and their statistical properties.
Nightmares, Mindfulness And Lucid Dreaming
Authors: Tzioridou Sofia , Dresler Martin , Sandberg Kristian , Mueller Erik M.
Published: February 2022

A theoretical and empirical association between lucid dreaming and mindfulness, as well as lucid dreaming and nightmares has previously been observed; however, the relationship between nightmares and mindfulness has received surprisingly little attention. Here, we present the findings of two studies exploring the relation of nightmare frequency and distress with two components of mindfulness, termed presence and acceptance, as well as lucid dreaming. Study 1 (N=338) consisted of a low percentage of frequent lucid dreamers whereas Study 2 (N=187) consisted primarily of frequent lucid dreamers that used lucid dream induction training techniques and meditation. Mindful acceptance showed a more robust association with nightmare-related variables in comparison to mindful presence. Meditation expertise inversely related to nightmare frequency and the practice of lucid dreaming induction techniques inversely related to nightmare frequency and distress. Finally, in Study 2 a positive correlation between lucid dreaming frequency and mindfulness was apparent. The present findings support the notion that wakeful mindfulness is associated with the quality of dreams and extend previous research by suggesting a disentangled role of the two facets of mindfulness in dream variation. This association remains open for experimental manipulation, the result of which could have clinical implications.
Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays Based on Recombinant S1 and Its Truncated Proteins to Measure Porcine Serum IgA Antibody Against PEDV Could Reflect Neutralization Activity
Authors: Shan Ying , Gao Qin , Mao Junyong , Zheng Jingyou , Xu Xiaohan , Zhang Chuni , Huang Xiaojun , Xu Jidong , Shi Fushan , Yue Min , He Fang , Fang Weihuan , Li Xiaoliang
Published: February 2022

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) can infect pigs of all ages, especially piglets. PEDV has spread across Asia since the 1980s. The highly virulent variant PEDV broke out on a large scale and caused huge economic losses to the pig industry in late 2010 in China. Rapid methods with high specificity are urgently needed for the diagnosis and control of the disease. In a previous study, we successfully established an ELISA method to detect porcine serum IgG antibody against PEDV based on full-length PEDV S1 protein as a coating antigen. In this study, the correlation between serum neutralizing activity and the value of IgA ELISA in porcine serum was further explored. First, we divided the PEDV S1 gene into three segments and constructed the recombinant plasmids pFastBac1-S1T1 (aa 21–279), pFastBac1-S1T2 (aa 280–539) and pFastBac1-S1T3 (aa 540–788), which carry the different antigenic regions of the S1 gene. Truncated S1 proteins PEDV-S1T1/S1T2/S1T3 were obtained by a Bac-to-Bac expression system, with protein sizes of 36 kDa, 38 kDa and 38 kDa, respectively. Recombinant proteins presented high reactivity with the monoclonal antibody against PEDV and positive pig serum. A total of 213 clinical serum samples were tested by the above indirect ELISA methods, and IFA was used as the gold standard. ROC curves revealed a significant correlation between S1-ELISA and S1T2-ELISA with a 0.9134 correlation coefficient and favourable sensitivity and specificity of S1-ELISA (93.24%, 95.68%) and S1T2-ELISA (89.33%, 94.16%). Our results also indicated that serum with higher neutralizing activity had a higher IgA titer based on S1-ELISA, S1T1-ELISA and S1T2-ELISA. In conclusion, both S1-ELISA and S1T2-ELISA can be used as candidate systems for detecting anti-PEDV IgA antibody titers in serum, which can reflect the level of neutralizing activity in pigs after natural infection or vaccination. The above research results provide a basis for the prevention and control of PEDV and can be used in the detection of host anti-infective immunity and evaluation of vaccine immune effects.
Modeling COVID-19 Effects on Sustainable Development Goals in Egypt Using System Dynamics
Authors: Marzouk Mohamed , Azab Shimaa , Elshaboury Nehal , Megahed Alaa , Metawie Mahmoud , Hawary Mostafa El , Ghaith Doaa , Bayoumi AbdElMoniem
Published: February 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a significant threat to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To address this challenge, a thorough examination of the pandemic’s influence on four SDGs in Egypt is presented in a system dynamic model. The addressed goals are related to no poverty (SDG 1), zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and climate action (SDG 13). The model is simulated over 35 years extending from 2015 to 2050. Furthermore, a web-based interactive learning environment is developed to analyze the interdependencies among public health activities and study the impacts of possible intervention countermeasures or prevention policies. This approach revitalizes debates about the achievement of SDGs amid the crisis and acts as a powerful tool that aids decision-makers in identifying leverage points to avoid the long-term negative repercussions of the crisis on the economy, people, and environment.
Type 2 Immune Response Plays A Critical Role in Trained Immunity
Authors: Cheng Shih-Chin , Dang Buyun , Zhang Jia , Gao Qingxiang , Zhong Qiumei , Zhang Lishan , Zhu Yanhui , Liu Junqiao , Niu Yujia , Xiao Nengming , Liu Wen-Hsien , Mao Kairui , Lin Shu-hai , Huang Jialiang , Huang Stanley , Ho Ping-Chih
Published: February 2022

Trained immunity, or innate immune memory, is vital in inducing heterologous protection against infection. Type 2 cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-13 induce M2 macrophage differentiation, characterized by anti-inflammatory phenotype permitting inflammation resolution and wound healing. Here we report that peritoneal macrophages isolated from OVA-allergen sensitized mice possessed both M2 signatures and a pro-inflammatory phenotype. Moreover, mice were more resistant to bacterial infection in the OVA-induced allergy model. Mechanistically, we found that IL-4 induced trained immunity in a STAT6-independent and IRS-dependent manner. Furthermore, IL-4 induces epigenetic memory in the pro-inflammatory gene enhancer regions, ensuring a higher transcription activity upon stimulation. In addition, IL-4 trained macrophages are metabolically more glycolytic upon LPS stimulation. To conclude, this unrecognized role of IL-4 in trained immunity broadens our understanding of IL-4 mediated physiological changes and provides immediate impacts on how type 2 immune response could re-direct disease progression in response to pathogen infection.
Why Batch Sensitization is Important for Missing Value Imputation
Authors: Sun Priscila Yun Qian , Goh Wilson Wen Bin
Published: February 2022

Data analysis is complex due to a myriad of technical problems. Amongst these, missing values and batch effects are particularly endemic. Although many methods have been developed for missing value imputation (MVI) and batch correction respectively, no study has directly considered the confounding impact of MVI on downstream batch correction. This is surprising as missing values are imputed during early pre-processing while batch effects are mitigated during late pre-processing, prior to functional analysis. The problem is that unless actively managed, MVI approaches generally ignore the batch covariate, with unknown consequences. We examine this problem by modelling 3 imputation strategies: global (M1), self-batch (M2) and cross-batch (M3) using simple matrix simulations, proteomics and genomics data. Considering batch covariates (M2) is important, resulting in enhanced batch correction and lower statistical errors. However, M1 and M3 are insidious: global and cross-batch averaging results in batch-effect dilution, with concomitant and irreversible increase in intra-sample noise. This noise is unremovable via batch correction algorithms and produces false positives and negatives. Hence, careless imputation in the presence of non-negligible covariates such as batch effects is costly.
Stiffness-Matched Extracellular Matrices Comprising Collagen or Fibrin Differentially Affect Cell-Mediated Remodeling and Peri-Cellular Stiffness
Authors: Jagiełło Alicja , Castillo Ulysses , Botvinick Elliot
Published: February 2022

Cells are known to continuously remodel their local extracellular matrix (ECM) and in a reciprocal way, they can also respond to mechanical and biochemical properties of their fibrous environment. In this study, we measured how stiffness around dermal fibroblasts (DFs) and human fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells differs with concentration of rat tail type 1 collagen (T1C) and type of ECM. Peri-cellular stiffness was probed in four directions using multi-axes optical tweezers active microrheology (AMR). First, we found that neither cell type significantly altered local stiffness landscape at different concentrations of T1C. Next, rat tail T1C, bovine skin T1C and fibrin cell-free hydrogels were polymerized at concentrations formulated to match median stiffness value. Each of these hydrogels exhibited distinct fiber architecture. Stiffness landscape and fibronectin secretion, but not nuclear/cytoplasmic YAP ratio differed with ECM type. Further, cell response to Y27632 or BB94 treatments, inhibiting cell contractility and activity of matrix metalloproteinases, respectively, was also dependent on ECM type. Given differential effect of tested ECMs on peri-cellular stiffness landscape, treatment effect and cell properties, this study underscores the need for peri-cellular and not bulk stiffness measurements in studies on cellular mechanotransduction.
Safe and low resistance solid-state high-voltage lithium metal batteries enabled by polyimide plastic crystal electrolytes
Authors: Liao Zhu , Hu Anyi , Huang Chenxi , Zhao Enyou , Saito Nagahiro , Zhang Zhengxi , Yang Li , Hirano Shin-ichi
Published: February 2022

Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) have been attached widespread attention as next-generation materials as far as safety and energy density concerned, but they are severely plagued by the limited oxidative potential, poor physical contact with electrodes and lithium dendrite growth. Organic ionic plastic crystal (OIPC), solid analogues of ionic liquids (ILs), are intrinsic non-flammable, non-volatile and compatible with lithium anode. In the present work, an electrochemical durable polyimide plastic crystal electrolyte (PPCE, up to 5.5 V vs Li/Li+) can be obtained as a result of the good interaction between OIPC and Li salt. Also, the soft, deformable property of OIPC and proper melting point of OIPC-Li salt endure good physical contact with electrodes. Consequently, solid-state dendrite-free Li/PPCE/Li cells show an ultralong cycle life over 1000h under 1.0 mA cm− 2, and room temperature high-voltage Li/PPCE/ LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cion cells achieve a capacity retention of 80% after 633 cycles under 1.0 C and ~ 5.0V class Li/PPCE/LiNi1.5Mn0.5O4 coins cells keep 91% discharge capacity after 100 cycles under 1.0 C at 25 ℃. The ionic and non-volatile nature of OIPC ensure the safety of PPCE so that it can past the harsh penetration test under practical conditions. Furthermore, the PPCE- based pouch cell shows good flexibility, acceptable rate performance and a high energy density of 223.1Wh kg− 1(based on merely electrolyte and electrodes). It is anticipated that our work provides an avenue for next-generation solid-state batteries.
Integrated longitudinal analysis of glioblastomas with long-term relapse interval revealed upregulation of the Tumor Growth Factor β signaling pathway in the recurrent tumor
Authors: Kashani Elham , Schnidrig Désirée , Gheinani Ali Hashemi , Ninck Martina Selina , Zens Philipp , Maragkou Theoni , Baumgartner Ulrich , Schucht Philippe , Rätsch Gunnar , Rubin Mark Andrew , Berezowska Sabina , Ng Charlotte K. Y. , Vassella Erik
Published: February 2022

Background. Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor and represents a particular challenge of therapeutic intervention. Methods. In a single-center retrospective study of matched pairs of initial and post-therapeutic GBM cases with a recurrence period greater than one year, we performed whole exome sequencing combined with mRNA and microRNA expression profiling to identify processes that are altered in recurrent GBM. Results. Expression and mutational profiling of recurrent GBM revealed evidence for early branching evolution in seventy-five percent of patients. SBS1 signature was reduced in the recurrent tumor and SBS11 was elevated, demonstrating the effect of alkylating agent therapy on the mutational landscape. There was no evidence for secondary genomic alterations driving therapy resistance. ALK7/ACVR1C and LTBP1 were upregulated, whereas LEFTY2 was downregulated, pointing towards enhanced Tumor Growth Factor β (TGF-β) signaling in the recurrent GBM. Consistently, altered microRNA expression profiles pointed towards enhanced Nuclear Factor Kappa B signaling that, cooperatively with TGF-β, induces epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration and stemness. In contrast, TGF-β-induced expression of pro-apoptotic proteins and repression of anti-apoptotic proteins were uncoupled in the recurrent tumor. Conclusions. Our results suggest an important role of TGF-β signaling in recurrent GBM. This may have clinical implication, since TGF-β inhibitors have entered clinical phase studies and may potentially be used in combination therapy to interfere with chemoradiation resistance. Recurrent GBM show high incidence of early branching evolution. High tumor plasticity is confirmed at the level of microRNA and mRNA expression profiles.
Severe acute cholecystitis (Tokyo III) in high risk patients : Should cholecystectomy be preferred over percutaneous drainage?
Authors: Giron Felipe , Venegas David , Rey Carlos , Rodriguez Lina , Vanegas Marco , Peña David , Puello Sebastian , Rodriguez Barbara , Rojas Susana , Conde Danny
Published: February 2022

Background Current guidelines advise the use of less aggressive procedures for the solution of cholecystitis in high risk patients. However, recent literature has shown better results in those patients managed with laparoscopic cholecystectomy . We aim to describe outcomes in high-risk patients with severe acute cholecystitis (Tokyo III) according to 2018 guidelines. MethodsPatients that underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy and percutaneous drainage by cholecystostomy between January 2018 and January 2020 were included in descriptive analysis. Bivariate analysis of Tokyo III patients was performed between variables involved. Results A total of 622 patients were included. 54.66% of patients were female. The mean age was 66.6 ± 16.52 years. 288 patients were classified as grade III in Tokyo classification, 28.98% underwent cholecystostomy and 71.02% cholecystectomy. Mortality and complication rate had no significant differences between the groups (p = 0.09 - p = 0.1 respectively). The in-hospital length of stay was significantly higher in patients that required cholecystostomy with a mean of 15.43 days versus 9.97 days in the LC group, with a statistically significant difference (p 0.000 CI 95%) .ConclusionsLaparoscopic cholecystectomy seems to be a feasible treatment choice over percutaneous cholecystostomy in terms of mortality, reintervention and in-hospital stay length.
Efficacy of Ustekinumab on perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease: a retrospective single-center real-world analysis
Authors: Zhi Min , Yao Jiayin , Zhang Heng , Hu Bang , Peng Xiang , Zhao Junzhang , Liu Tao , Wang Wei , Hu Pinjin , Zhang Min
Published: February 2022

Aim: Data of Ustekinumab (UST) in treating perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease (CD) are limited in China. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of UST in the real-world setting. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with perianal fistulizing CD and receiving UST treatment from March 1, 2020 to October 30, 2021. Patients’ characteristics, biomarker, and imaging were extracted from digital databases. Results: Twenty patients were eligible (18 males; mean age of 29.4±2.6 years; mean disease duration of 6.3±0.9 years; 45.0% diagnosed as complex fistula; mean baseline Van Assche score of 7.7±1.1). Perianal Crohn’s disease activity index (5.4±1.0 vs 8.7±1.0, P=0.027) and Crohn’s anal fistula quality of life (29.4±4.8 vs 38.9±4.2, P=0.011) reduced significantly. Clinical remission appeared in 60.0% and clinical response in 85.0%; clinical fistula remission in 30.0%, clinical fistula response in 35.0%, and no response in 35.0% of patients. Eight patients received post-treatment MRI. Healing, partial response, no change, and deterioration appeared in 37.5%, 25.0%, 12.5% and 25.0% of the patients, respectively. The cut-off UST trough concentration predicting clinical fistula remission was 2.6 μg/ml (an area under the curve of 0.821, sensitivity 66.7%, specificity 85.7%). Conclusions: UST is efficacious in promoting clinical and radiological fistula remission in patients with CD.
Structural, DFT calculations, photophysical and photochemical characteristics of 1-((E)-2-phenylethenyl)-2-(4-(2-((E)-2-phenylethenyl) phenoxy) butoxy) benzene (PPPBB)
Authors: Bayoumy Rasha M. , Abdel-Halim Shakir T. , El-Daly Samy A. , Saad Mohamed A. , Awad Mohamed , Ebeid El-Zeiny M.
Published: February 2022

X- ray single crystal structure, spectroscopic and photophysical parameters of the titled compound were studied. Photophysical parameters include singlet electronic absorption, molar absorption coefficient, oscillator strength and dipole moment of electronic transition, fluorescence spectra, excited state lifetime and fluorescence quantum yield for PPPBB in different solvents. PPPBB displays a little change in maximum absorption and emission spectra with solvent polarity, indicating a slight change in dipole moment of dye molecules upon excitation. The dipole moments (Δ\(\mu\) ) difference between the excited and ground state was obtained from Lippert-Mataga method. Ground and electronic excited states geometric optimization was performed using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT), complemented with spectral findings. A good agreement between theoretical data and experimental observations was found. The net photochemical quantum yield (ϕc) of PPPBB dye was calculated in various solvents.
Obtaining large numbers of predatory mites, namely Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae), from cotton fields rich in it, and accumulating them on a few leaves
Authors: Elshazly Mohamed Mahrous Youssef
Published: February 2022

Preliminary studies on the population density of Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae) existing in a cotton field revealed that spraying Chlorpyrifos-methyl 48% E. C. and lambda-cyhalothrin 5% E. C. didn't affect the mite population density significantly. As regards the pesticide-untreated area, the maximum population density was recorded in September; meanwhile, the minimum one was recorded in June. The mites were at the highest population density on the leaves of the middle section of the plants; meanwhile, they were at the lowest population density on the leaves of the top section. The mite population found on the lower surfaces of the leaves was significantly more than the mite population found on the upper ones. The majority of the mite individuals existed at the pleats and the bases of the lower surfaces of the leaves. After spraying a defoliant by a week, the population density of the mites existing on the fresh leaves found beneath the defoliant-treated plants were 13.5 mites per leaf, which is considered to be comparatively high. Hence, large numbers of that mite could be obtained from that leaf category. By collecting 15 fresh leaves from the ground located under the plants treated with the pesticides and the defoliant, and stacking them in a jar, in certain conditions, for three days, most individuals congregated on the upper ones. The average population density of the mites found on the upper three leaves was 39.89 mites per leaf. Hence, large numbers of that mite could be accumulated on a few leaves.
Limit Cycles and Chaos in the Hybrid Atom-Optomechanics System
Authors: Xu Xingran , Krisnanda Tanjung , Liew Timothy C. H.
Published: February 2022

We consider atoms in two different periodic potentials induced by different lasers, one of which is coupled to a mechanical membrane via radiation pressure force. The atoms are intrinsically two-level systems that can absorb or emit photons, but the dynamics of their position and momentum are treated classically. On the other hand, the membrane, the cavity field, and the intrinsic two-level atoms are treated quantum mechanically. We show that the mean excitation of the three systems can be stable, periodically oscillating, or in a chaotic state depending on the strength of the coupling between them. We define regular,time-periodicl, and chaotic phases, and present a phase diagram where the three phases can be achieved by manipulating the field-membrane and field-atom coupling strengths. The first and second-order correlation functions in different phases are also calculated, which can be observed in experiments. Our proposal offers a new way to generate and tune time-periodic and chaotic phases in a well-established atom-optomechanics system.
A causal role for the parietal cortex in ambiguity computations in humans
Authors: Valdebenito-Oyarzo Gabriela ,   María Paz Martínez-Molina1, Soto-Icaza Patricia , Zamorano Francisco , Figueroa-Vargas Alejandra , Larraín-Valenzuela Josefina , Stecher Ximena , Salinas César , Valero-Cabré Antonie , Polania Rafael , Billeke Pablo
Published: February 2022

Humans must often estimate reward values in the presence of ambiguous information to determine the best course of action. The degree of ambiguity during decision-making has been related to levels of activity in the parietal cortex, however, its specific computations and causal role remain unknown. We tested the hypothesis that the parietal cortex is causally related in the computation of ambiguous probabilities during decision-making, studied via fMRI and concurrent TMS-EEG recordings. We found that the parietal cortex computes the degree of ambiguity assigned to subjective probability estimates. Disruption of these parietal signals selectively increased the assignment of unknown probabilities to choice outcomes, and these effects were accompanied by a modulation of frontal theta oscillations related to prediction error signals emerging from ambiguous choices. These results contribute to evidence supporting a fundamental causal role for the parietal cortex in the computations of ambiguous information during risky decisions and learning in humans.
Autonomous Decision Making Over Reproductive Health Service Utilization and Associated Factors Among Married Women in Illuababora Zone, South West Ethiopia:
Authors: Nigatu Dessalegn , Bayabil Zerihun , Fekede Tarekegn
Published: February 2022

Objective፡ Assess autonomous decision-making on RH-service utilization and its associated factors among married women in Illubabor zone, South West Ethiopia.Methods: Community based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among married women of 584(urban 292 and rural 292) married women of reproductive age group. The data were entered into EPI data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20 computer software for analysis. Both Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used. Level of significance was declared at a p value of <0.05Results: A total of 288 in urban and 288 in rural married women were interviewed and yields a response rate of 98.6% both in urban and rural. Autonomous decision making in urban and rural was 55.2% [95% CI (52.7-64.6)] and 40.3% [95% CI (39.9-52.5)] respectively. In urban, being wives of government employed spouses [AOR 2.102 95% CI (1.16, 3.81)], knowledge on RH [AOR 3.33, 95% CI (1.20, 12.49)], above five years in marriage [AOR 1.91, 95% CI (1.19, 7.70)], were found to be predictors of women’s autonomous decision making.Conclusion: Urban women had better anonymously make decisions than rural on reproductive health service utilization. The study revealed that in urban settings those women who had marriage duration five and more than five years, being wives of government employed spouses had more likely decision making anonymously on reproductive health utilization but not in rural settings. Reproductive health interventions in the area should be promoted by considering empowering of married women on reproductive health service utilization.
GPR97-mediated PAR2 transactivation via a mPR3-associated macromolecular complex induces inflammatory activation of human neutrophils
Authors: Lin Hsi-Hsien , Chu Tai-Ying , Zheng-Gérard Céline , Huang Kuan-Yeh , Chang Yu-Chi , Chen Ying-Wen , I Kuan-Yu , Lo Yu-Ling , Chiang Nien-Yi , Chen Hsin-Yi , Stacey Martin , Gordon Siamon , Tseng Wen-Yi , Sun Chiao-Yin , Wu Yen-Mu , Pan Yi-Shin , Huang Chien-Hao , Lin Chun-Yen , Chen Tse-Ching , Antonelou Marilina , Henderson Scott , salama Alan , Seiradake Elena
Published: February 2022

Neutrophils play essential anti-microbial and inflammatory roles in host defense, however their activities are tightly regulated as neutrophil dysfunction often leads to detrimental inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Here, we identified a novel PR3/CD177/GPR97/PAR2/CD16b interactome as a critical modulator of neutrophil activation. Using multiple approaches, we deorphanized GPR97, a human neutrophil-restricted adhesion G protein-coupled receptor (aGPCR), as the interacting protein and allosteric activator of CD177-associated membrane proteinase 3 (mPR3). Structural and deletion analysis of the GPR97 extracellular region disclosed two independent mPR3-binding domains. The efficient binding and activation of mPR3 by GPR97 required a macromolecular CD177/GPR97/PAR2/CD16b interactome and resulted in the transactivation of PAR2, another GPCR. GPR97-mediated PAR2 transactivation in neutrophils elicited strong inflammatory activation, triggering anti-microbial activities and endothelial dysfunction. Altogether, we identify a novel aGPCR-GPCR transactivation mechanism that directs neutrophil activation and inflammation. The PR3/CD177/GPR97/PAR2/CD16b interactome represents a potential therapeutic target for neutrophil-mediated inflammatory diseases.
AMX-1 is necessary for proper fertility and lack of its expression induced sterility in a p53/CEP-1 dependent manner by modulating piwi expression in C. elegans
Authors: Ren Xiaojing , Tian Sisi , Meng Qinghao , Kim Hyun-Min
Published: February 2022

Background
Histone methylation shapes the epigenetic configuration and adjusts multiple fundamental nuclear processes, including transcription, cell cycle control and DNA repair. The absence of histone demethylase LSD1/SPR-5 leads to progressive fertility defects as well as a reduction in brood size. Similarly, C. elegans LSD2 homolog AMX-1 has been implicated in regulating H3K4me2 and maintaining ICL susceptibility. However, the mechanisms of how lack of AMX-1 induces sterility have not been addressed so far.
Results
This study investigated the histone demethylase AMX-1 in C. elegans and uncovered how amx-1 contributes to sterility in a p53/CEP-1 dependent manner. We show that while sterility in spr-5 mutants exhibited progressive over generations, amx-1 mutants displayed non-transgenerational fertility defects. Also, amx-1 mutants exhibited a reduced number of sperms and produced low brood size (LBS) or sterile worms that retain neither sperms nor germline nuclei, suggesting that fertility defects originated from germline development failure. Surprisingly, sterility exhibited in amx-1 was mediated by p53/CEP-1 in a DNA damage independent manner, indicating p53/CEP-1's roles beyond DNA damage repair. Consistent with this result, upregulation of Piwi expression in amx-1 mutants suggested that AMX-1 is essential for germline development by regulating Piwi gene expressions.
Conclusions
We propose that AMX-1 is required for proper Piwi expression and transposon silencing in a p53/CEP-1 dependent manner; thus, the absence of AMX-1 expression leads to defective meiotic development and sterility. This study elucidates how LSD2/ AMX-1 contributes sterility for the first time, therefore, expanding the boundaries of histone demethylase function.
Downregulation of circBIRC6 and circCORO1C During Differentiation of Human Cord Blood-derived CD34 Cells
Authors: Karimi Roqaye , Atashi Amir , Zomorrod Mina Soufi , Ajami Monireh , Ajami Mansoureh
Published: February 2022

Umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells (UCB HSCs) transplantation has attracted the attention of many researchers due to the low probability of GVHD and HLA mismatching; however, the use of this resource for adults has been limited due to the inadequate number of CD34+ HSC from any individual donor. Recent reports indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in stem cell properties. In this study, the functional role of several candidate circRNAs, including circCORO1C and circBIRC6 in CD34+ HSCs was investigated. The results showed that the expression levels of circBIRC6 and circCORO1C and simultaneously, the expression of transcription factors such as NANOG and SOX2 were significantly downregulated during differentiation. Taken together, these findings suggested that circBIRC6 and circCORO1C were involved in the process of self-renewal of CD34+ HSCs, and their expression is downregulated by differentiating these cells.
m6A modification-tuned sphingolipid metabolism regulates postnatal liver development
Authors: Yuan Detian , Wang Shiguan , Chen Shanze , Sun Jianfeng , Han Pan , Xu Bowen , Zhong Youquan , Xu Zaichao , Zhang Peng , Mi Ping , Zhang Cuijuan , Xia Yuchen , Li Shiyang , Heikenwälder Mathias
Published: February 2022

Different organs undergo distinct transcriptional, epigenetic and physiological alterations that guarantee their functional maturation after birth. However, the roles of epitranscriptomic machineries in these processes remain elusive. Here, we show that RNA methyltransferase enzymes Mettl3 and Mettl14 highly express in murine hepatocytes at embryonic and neonatal stages, and gradually decline during the postnatal development. Liver-specific Mettl3 deficiency causes hepatocyte hypertrophy, liver injury and growth retardation. Transcriptomic and N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A) profiling identify the neutral sphingomyelinase, Smpd3, as a target of Mettl3. Decreased decay of Smpd3 transcripts due to Mettl3 deficiency results in sphingolipid metabolism rewiring, characterized by toxic ceramide accumulation and excessive sphingomyelin hydrolysis, leading to mitochondrial damage and elevated ER stress. Pharmacological inhibition of Smpd3 ameliorates the abnormality of Mettl3-deficent liver. Our findings demonstrate that Mettl3/m6A fine-tunes sphingolipid metabolism, highlighting the pivotal role of an epitranscriptomic machinery in coordinating metabolic homeostasis and functional maturation during postnatal liver development.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Oral and Intramuscular Vitamin D Therapy in Obese Children with Vitamin D Deficiency
Authors: Korkmaz Hüseyin Anil , Karaarslan Utku , Özkan Behzat
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
The efficacy of oral versus intramuscular (IM) vitamin D administration in obese children is debatable. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of oral versus IM administration of a single dose of cholecalciferol (300,000 IU) in obese children with vitamin D deficiency.
Methods
In an open-label, randomized, and cross-sectional clinical study, 96 obese patients with vitamin D deficiency and body mass index (BMI) > + 2 standard deviation scores (SDS) for their age and gender were recruited. Sixty-one children received a single IM dose of cholecalciferol (300,000 IU), while 35 children received an oral single dose of cholecalciferol (300,000 IU). At the initial clinic visit, baseline serum calcium (Ca), phosphorus (PO4), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), parathyroid hormone (PTH), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) concentrations were measured. After 12 weeks, serum biochemical and hormone levels were determined. The study’s primary endpoint was a change in serum 25OHD hormone levels.
Results
There was no statistically significant difference between the IM and oral groups and baseline in the median 25OHD levels (8 (4) vs. 10.3 (1.8) ng/mL) and PTH levels (70 (28) vs. 68 (22) pg/ml). Compared to the oral group, the IM group showed a statistically significant increase in the 25OHD levels (IM Δ25OHD: 31 (10) vs. oral Δ25OHD: 20 (6.7) ng/ml, p < 0.01), while the PTH levels were significantly reduced from their baseline levels (IM ΔPTH: 53.2 (31.5) vs. oral ΔPTH: 37.4 (27.2) pg/ml, p < 0.01).
Conclusion
In obese children, a single IM dose of vitamin D (300,000 IU) had a greater bioavailability than a similar dose given orally. Supplementation of vitamin D (300,000 IU), either IM or orally, was found to normalize 25OHD levels in vitamin D deficient obese children.
Investigation of micronutrients and heavy metals in rice farms of Ahvaz and Bawie Counties, Khuzestan Province, Iran
Authors: Rastmanesh Fatemeh , Ghazalizadeh Soraya , Shalbaf Fatemeh , Zarasvandi Alireza
Published: February 2022

This research was conducted to determine the status of micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Co) and heavy metals (As, Pb) in the soil and rice crop in Ahvaz and Bawie counties, Iran. Twenty-eight composite soil and grain samples from selected rice farms were collected during the harvest time. The concentrations of elements in samples were determined by Inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry and in the grains by Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry device. Physicochemical properties of soil, bioconcentration factor, daily intakes and health risk assessment for elements were calculated. The results showed that the area is covered by alkaline saline soils, which is poor in micronutrients. The bioconcentration factor values of all elements were less than 1. Low levels of bioconcentration factor may be due to the low levels of nutrients in the soil as well as the physicochemical conditions of the soil. Furthermore, the results showed that the daily intake of Co (in the adults’ group) and Fe and Zn (in the children group) is very low. Health risk assessment showed that only adults are at the risk of non-cancerous and cancerous diseases caused by excess of As and Pb. Considering that Khuzestan province is the fourth largest producer of rice in Iran, the lack of micronutrients and presence of heavy metals in the rice produced in the study area can have adverse health effects on consumers. Investigation of this issue requires more detailed studies in the region.
Synthesis And Bio-Evaluation Of Some 4-Hydroxycoumarin Derivatives
Authors: Al-Majedy Yasameen K. Kadhim Hasan , Ibraheem Hiba H. , Shaker Samar M.
Published: February 2022

Coumarins are naturally occurring oxygen heterocyclic compounds having multifarious medicinal properties, hence used as lead compounds for designing new potent analogs. The modification of 4-hydroxycoumarin by different reaction steps was done to yield target compounds. The structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods, Infrared Spectra FT-IR and 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectra and elemental analysis techniques, melting point and thin layer chromatography. The newly synthesized derivatives contain different functional groups, and as such they could exhibit microbiological activity. Therefore, we tested the microbiological activity of these derivatives on various species of bacteria and fungi. The tested compounds have shown different activity in terms of growth inhibition of microorganisms. Newly synthesized derivatives exhibit antibacterial activities.
Inhibition of Spinal 5-HT3 Receptor and Spinal Dorsal Horn Neuronal Excitability Alleviates Hyperalgesia in A Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Li Cheng-Jie , Liu Lu-Bing , An Meng-Qi , Zhang Li-Ge , Dong Li-guo , Gu Han-Ying , Dai Yong-Ping , Wang Fen , Mao Cheng-Jie , Liu Chun-Feng
Published: February 2022

Pain in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is increasingly recognized as a major factor associated with poor health-related quality of life. However, classic therapeutic drugs supplying dopamine have limited therapeutic effect on PD related pain. This suggests that there is a mechanism outside the dopamine system that causes pain in PD. Our previous study has demonstrated that 6-OHDA induced PD model manifested hyperalgesia to thermal and mechanical stimuli and decreased serotonin (5-HT) contents in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH). Several 5-HT receptor subtypes have been confirmed to be associated with nociception in the spinal cord, such as 5-HT1A receptor, 5-HT1B receptor, 5-HT2 receptor, 5-HT3 receptor, and 5-HT7 receptor. Most researches have shown that 5-HT1A receptor and 5-HT3 receptor played a key role in pain transmission in the spinal cord. Thus, we hypothesize that hyperalgesia of 6-OHDA rats may be related to increased excitability of SDH neurons and the functional change of 5-HT3 receptor may reverse the hyperalgesia of 6-OHDA rats and decrease cell excitability of SDH neurons. To test this hypothesis, we used whole-cell patch-clamp and pharmacological methods to evaluate the effect of 5-HT3 receptor and 5-HT1A receptor on the hyperalgesia of 6-OHDA rats. The results suggested that increased excitability in SDH neurons could be reversed by 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron (20 µmol/L), but not 5-HT3 receptor agonist M-CPBG (30 µmol/L), 5-HT1A receptor antagonist 8-OH DPAT (10 µmol/L)and agonist WAY-100635 (10 µmol/L). Intrathecal injection with ondansetron (0.1 mg/kg) but not M-CPBG (0.1 mg/kg), 8-OH DPAT (0.1 mg/kg) and WAY-100635 (0.1 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the mechanical hyperalgesia and thermal hyperalgesia of 6-OHDA rats. Therefore, the present study suggests that inhibition of 5-HT3 receptor relieves hyperalgesia in PD rats by reducing the excitability of SDH neurons. Our study provides a novel mechanism or therapeutic strategy for pain in patients with PD.
Surgical Treatment on Infective Endocarditis: Impact of Diabetes on Mortality
Authors: Kogan Alexander , Wieder Anat , Frogel Jonathan , Peled-Potashnik Yael ,   Eilon                                 and Leonid Sternik1,5. Ram, Raanani Ehud , Sternik Leonid
Published: February 2022

BackgroundType 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a frequent co-morbidity among patients suffering from infective endocarditis (IE). The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of type 2 DM on the early-, intermediate- and long-term mortality of patients who underwent surgical treatment of endocarditis.MethodsWe performed an observational cohort study in the large tertiary center in Israel during 14 years. All data of patients who underwent surgical treatment of endocarditis, performed between 2006 and 2020 were extracted from the departmental database. Patients were divided into two groups: Group I (non-diabetic patients), and Group II (diabetic patients).ResultsThe study population includes 420 patients. Group I (non-diabetic patients), comprise 326 patients, and Group II (diabetic patients), comprise 94 patients. Mean follow-up duration was 39.3 ± 28.1 months. Short-term, 30-day and in-hospital mortality, also intermediate-term mortality (1- and 3-year) was higher in the DM group compared with the non-DM group, but did not reach statistical significance: 11.7% vs. 7.7%. (p = 0.215); 12.8% vs. 8.3% (p = 0.285); 20.2% vs. 13.2% (p = 0.1) and 23.4% vs. 15.6% (p = 0.09) respectively. Long-term, 5-year mortality was significantly higher in the DM group, compared to the non-DM group: 30.9% vs. 16.6% (p = 0.003). Furthermore, predictors for long-term mortality included diabetes (CI 1.056–2.785, p = 0.029), as demonstrated by regression analysis.ConclusionsDiabetic patients have trend to increasing mortality at the short- and intermediate period post-surgery for IE, but this is not statistically significant. Survival of diabetic patients deteriorates after more than three years follow surgery. Diabetes is an independent predictor for long-term, 5-year mortality after surgical treatment of endocarditis, regardless of the patients age and comorbidities.
Application of zinc oxide reduces the bioavailability and specific uptake of cadmium by alfalfa grown in a cadmium-contaminated alkaline soil
Authors:   Honghua (S102) He, Zhang Zekun , Wu Miaomiao
Published: February 2022

Aims Zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) have similar chemical properties and interact with each other in the soil-plant system. Application of Zn may be an effective way for phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soils.Methods A greenhouse pot experiment was carried out to grow alfalfa in an alkaline soil spiked with different rates of Cd (0, 20, and 80 mg kg–1) and Zn (0, 200, and 800 mg kg–1) as cadmium oxide (CdO) and zinc oxide (ZnO), respectively, to investigate the effects of ZnO application on soil Cd bioavailability, plant growth and Cd uptake. Results Adding ZnO resulted in a lower soil pH and greater DTPA-extractable Zn concentration, but a lower DTPA-extractable Cd concentration. The effect of ZnO addition on Cd bioavailability depended on both soil Cd level and Zn dose. Soil Cd contamination considerably inhibited plant growth and increased both root and shoot Cd concentrations. Adding ZnO significantly enhanced plant growth and reduced specific Cd uptake by roots and plant Cd concentrations, but did not affect the total amount of Cd taken up by plants. The percentage of total plant Cd content allocated to roots was significantly lower, but the root-to-shoot translocation factor of Cd was higher when ZnO was added. Both CdO and ZnO addition had a small effect on root exudation of carboxylates. Conclusions Application of ZnO to soil alleviated Zn deficiency and reduced Cd bioavailability, consequently enhanced plant growth and Cd concentrations, and it may be a cost-effective way for phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soils.