bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of miR-199a-5p rejuvenates aged mesenchymal stem cells derived from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and improves their therapeutic efficacy in experimental pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Shi Linli , Han Qian , Hong Yimei , Li Weifeng , Gong Gencheng , Cui Jiangyu , Mao Mengmeng , Liang Xiaoting , Hu Bei , Li Xin , Luo Qun , Zhang Yuelin
Published: February 2021

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an age-related disease with no cure. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapy has emerged as a novel strategy for IPF treatment. Nevertheless, MSCs derived from patients with IPF (IPF-MSCs) become senescent, thereby reducing their beneficial effects in IPF. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) mediate the senescence of MSCs, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. We investigated the mechanisms by which miR-199a-5p regulates IPF-MSC senescence and whether its inhibition could rejuvenate IPF-MSCs and enhance their therapeutic efficacy.

Methods

Control-MSCs and IPF-MSCs were isolated from the adipose tissue of age-matched healthy and IPF donors, respectively. Cell senescence was examined by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining. The level of miR-199a-5p was measured by RT-PCR. Autophagy was determined using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The therapeutic efficacy of anti-miR-199a-5p-IPF-MSCs was assessed using a mouse model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis.

Results

Despite similar surface makers, IPF-MSCs exhibited increased cellular senescence and decreased proliferative capacity compared with control-MSCs. The expression of miR-199a-5p was significantly enhanced in the serum of IPF patients and IPF-MSCs compared with that of healthy donors and control-MSCs. The upregulation of miR-199a-5p induced senescence of control-MSCs, whereas the downregulation rescued IPF-MSC senescence. Mechanistically, miR-155-5p suppressed autophagy of MSCs via the AMPK signaling pathway by downregulating the expression of Sirtuin 1(Sirt1), resulting in cellular senescence. Accordingly, miR-155-5p inhibition promoted autophagy and ameliorated IPF-MSC senescence by activating the Sirt1/AMPK signaling pathway. Compared with IPF-MSCs, the transplantation of anti-miR-199a-5p-IPF-MSCs increased the ability to prevent progression of pulmonary fibrosis in bleomycin-treated mice.

Conclusions

Our study shows that miR-199a-5p regulates MSC senescence in patients with IPF by regulating the Sirt1/AMPK signaling pathway and miR-199a-5p is a novel target to rejuvenate IPF-MSCs and enhance their beneficial effects.
Detection and therapy of neuroblastoma minimal residual disease using [64/67Cu]Cu-SARTATE in a preclinical model of hepatic metastases
Authors: Dearling Jason L. J. , van Dam Ellen M. , Harris Matthew J. , Packard Alan B.
Published: February 2021

Background

A major challenge to the long-term success of neuroblastoma therapy is widespread metastases that survive initial therapy as minimal residual disease (MRD). The SSTR2 receptor is expressed by most neuroblastoma tumors making it an attractive target for molecularly targeted radionuclide therapy. SARTATE consists of octreotate, which targets the SSTR2 receptor, conjugated to MeCOSar, a bifunctional chelator with high affinity for copper. Cu-SARTATE offers the potential to both detect and treat neuroblastoma MRD by using [64Cu]Cu-SARTATE to detect and monitor the disease and [67Cu]Cu-SARTATE as the companion therapeutic agent. In the present study, we tested this theranostic pair in a preclinical model of neuroblastoma MRD. An intrahepatic model of metastatic neuroblastoma was established using IMR32 cells in nude mice. The biodistribution of [64Cu]Cu-SARTATE was measured using small-animal PET and ex vivo tissue analysis. Survival studies were carried out using the same model: mice (6–8 mice/group) were given single doses of saline, or 9.25 MBq (250 µCi), or 18.5 MBq (500 µCi) of [67Cu]Cu-SARTATE at either 2 or 4 weeks after tumor cell inoculation.

Results

PET imaging and ex vivo biodistribution confirmed tumor uptake of [64Cu]Cu-SARTATE and rapid clearance from other tissues. The major clearance tissues were the kidneys (15.6 ± 5.8% IA/g at 24 h post-injection, 11.5 ± 2.8% IA/g at 48 h, n = 3/4). Autoradiography and histological analysis confirmed [64Cu]Cu-SARTATE uptake in viable, SSTR2-positive tumor regions with mean tumor uptakes of 14.1–25.0% IA/g at 24 h. [67Cu]Cu-SARTATE therapy was effective when started 2 weeks after tumor cell inoculation, extending survival by an average of 13 days (30%) compared with the untreated group (mean survival of control group 43.0 ± 8.1 days vs. 55.6 ± 9.1 days for the treated group; p = 0.012). No significant therapeutic effect was observed when [67Cu]Cu-SARTATE was started 4 weeks after tumor cell inoculation, when the tumors would have been larger (control group 14.6 ± 8.5 days; 9.25 MBq group 9.5 ± 1.6 days; 18.5 MBq group 15.6 ± 4.1 days; p = 0.064).

Conclusions

Clinical experiences of peptide-receptor radionuclide therapy for metastatic disease have been encouraging. This study demonstrates the potential for a theranostic approach using [64/67Cu]Cu-SARTATE for the detection and treatment of SSTR2-positive neuroblastoma MRD.
Expression analysis of tissue factor pathway inhibitors TFPI-1 and TFPI-2 in Paralichthys olivaceus and antibacterial and anticancer activity of derived peptides
Authors: Wang Guanghua , Xie Bing , Su Yanli , Gu Qinqin , Hao Dongfang , Liu Hongmei , Wang Changbiao , Hu Yonghua , Zhang Min
Published: February 2021

Tissue factor pathway inhibitors (TFPI), including TFPI-1 and TFPI-2, are Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors that mainly inhibit the blood coagulation induced by tissue factors. Previous reports on teleost proved TFPI play important roles in innate immunity. In this study, two TFPI (PoTFPI-1 and PoTFPI-2) molecules from Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) were analyzed and characterized for their expression patterns, antibacterial and anticancer activities of the C-terminal derived peptides. Quantitative real time RT-PCR analysis shows that constitutive PoTFPI-1 expression occurred, in increasing order, in the brain, muscle, spleen, gills, head kidney, blood, intestine, heart, and liver; PoTFPI-2 was expressed, in increasing order, in the brain, gills, head kidney, muscle, intestine, spleen, liver, heart, and blood. Under the stimulation of fish pathogens, both PoTFPI-1 and PoTFPI-2 expressions increased significantly in a manner that depended on the pathogens, tissue type, and infection stage. Furthermore, C-terminal peptides TP25 and TP26, derived from PoTFPI-1 and PoTFPI-2, respectively, were synthesized and proved to be active against Micrococcus luteus (for TP25 and TP26) and Staphylococcus aureus (for TP25) via retardation effects on bacterial nucleic acids. In addition, TP25 and TP26 also displayed significant inhibitory effects on human colon cancer cell line HT-29. These results reveal that both PoTFPI-1 and PoTFPI-2 play important roles in host innate immunity. The antibacterial activity and anticancer cells function of TP25 and TP26 will add new insights into the roles of teleost TFPI.
Analysis and control of the fractional chaotic Hopfield neural network
Authors: Mahmoud Emad E. , Jahanzaib Lone Seth , Trikha Pushali , Almaghrabi Omar A.
Published: February 2021

The fractional Hopfield neural network (HNN) model is studied here analyzing its symmetry, uniqueness of the solution, dissipativity, fixed points etc. A Lyapunov and bifurcation analysis of the system is done for specific as well as variable fractional order. Since a very long time ago, HNN has been carefully studied and applied in various fields. Because of the exceptional non-linearity of the neuron activation function, the HNN system is stoutly non-linear. Chaos control using adaptive SMC considering disturbances and uncertainties is done about randomly chosen points by designing suitable controllers. Numerical simulations performed in MATLAB verify the efficacy of the designed controllers.
A new numerical method to solve pantograph delay differential equations with convergence analysis
Authors: Jafari H. , Mahmoudi M. , Noori Skandari M. H.
Published: February 2021

The main aim presented in this article is to provide an efficient transferred Legendre pseudospectral method for solving pantograph delay differential equations. At the first step, we transform the problem into a continuous-time optimization problem and then utilize a transferred Legendre pseudospectral method to discretize the problem. By solving this discrete problem, we can attain the pointwise and continuous estimated solutions for the major pantograph delay differential equation. The convergence of method has been considered. Also, numerical experiments are described to show the performance and precision of the presented technique. Moreover, the obtained results are compared with those from other techniques.
A reaction-diffusion HFMD model with nonsmooth treatment function
Authors: Shi Lei , Zhao Hongyong , Wu Daiyong
Published: February 2021

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral illness that commonly affects infants and children. In some areas with high incidence of this disease, the relevant departments often use some strategies to strengthen treatment when the number of infected individuals exceeds a certain threshold. To assess the effectiveness of strengthening treatment strategies which depend on a certain threshold, we propose a new reaction-diffusion model with nonsmooth treatment function to investigate the spread of HFMD. In the case of the spatial domain being bounded, by defining the basic reproduction number$R_{0}$R0, we use Lyapunov theory to prove that the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable as$R_{0}<1$R0<1, and the positive equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable as$R_{0}>1$R0>1. In the case of the spatial domain being linear and unbounded, in order to study how the movement of children impacts the spatial spread of HFMD, we further consider the traveling waves. Finally, numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis.
Measure of noncompactness for an infinite system of fractional Langevin equation in a sequence space
Authors: Salem Ahmed , Alshehri Hashim M. , Almaghamsi Lamya
Published: February 2021

A new sequence space related to the space$\ell _{p}$ℓp,$1\leq p<\infty $1≤p<∞(the space of all absolutelyp-summable sequences) is established in the present paper. It turns out that it is Banach and aBKspace with Schauder basis. The Hausdorff measure of noncompactness of this space is presented and proven. This formula with the aid the Darbo’s fixed point theorem is used to investigate the existence results for an infinite system of Langevin equations involving generalized derivative of two distinct fractional orders with three-point boundary condition.
On a system of Riemann–Liouville fractional differential equations with coupled nonlocal boundary conditions
Authors: Luca Rodica
Published: February 2021

We investigate the existence of solutions for a system of Riemann–Liouville fractional differential equations with nonlinearities dependent on fractional integrals, subject to coupled nonlocal boundary conditions which contain various fractional derivatives and Riemann–Stieltjes integrals. In the proof of our main results, we use some theorems from the fixed point theory.
Properties analysis of crosslinked chitosan microcapsules by multiple emulsification method
Authors: Ryu Su-Jin , Bae Hyun-Sook
Published: February 2021

Chemical based finishing agents often affect human body and environment. Therefore, in this study, eco-friendly microcapsules were manufactured to minimize the use of chemicals by using chitosan, a natural substance, as a wall material and basil oil as a core material. First, the optimum manufacturing conditions were established through the shape and size of the synthesized microcapsules. Second, the synthesis and thermal stability of the prepared microcapsules were evaluated. Finally, the applicability to functional fiber processing was reviewed by measuring the release characteristics of the microcapsules. Consequently, using 2 wt% chitosan, Triton X-100 as a emulsifier and stirring at 6000 rpm were considered to be efficient in terms of capsule formation. FT-IR spectrum and Gas Chromatograph showed that microcapsules were stably synthesized. And microcapsule containing basil oil was given heat resistance by encapsulation. Lastly, microcapsules can be confirmed to have sustained-release, due to basil oil in microcapsules has a small amount of release up to 10 h, and is continuously released until after 60 h to release slowly, As a result, the manufactured microcapsules finishing agent may be applied to finishing of textile product.
Incidence and predictors of tuberculosis among HIV patients after initiation of antiretroviral treatment in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Azanaw Melkalem Mamuye , Derseh Nebiyu Mekonnen , Yetemegn Gebeyehu Shumuye , Angaw Dessie Abebaw
Published: February 2021

Background

Tuberculosis is the oldest infectious disease and it is still the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Even though several primary studies have been conducted on the incidence of tuberculosis among HIV-infected individuals in Ethiopia, national-level tuberculosis incidence is unknown. Therefore, this study is aimed to assess the TB incidence rate and its predictors among HIV-infected individuals after the initiation of ART in Ethiopia.

Methods

We conducted an extensive search of literature as indicated in the guideline of reporting systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA). The databases used were PubMed, Google Scholar, and HINARI literature. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument for critical appraisal of studies. The meta-analysis and Meta regressions were conducted using STATA 14 software. Met-analysis and meta-regression were computed to present the pooled incidence rate and predictors of tuberculosis among HIV-infected patients after initiation of ART with a 95% confidence interval.

Results

Among a total of 189 studies, 11 studies were included in this analysis. The estimated pooled incidence rate of TB per 100-person year observation (PYO) among HIV-infected patients after initiation of ART therapy was 4.8(95% CI 3.69–5.83). In subgroup analysis, the estimated pooled incidence of tuberculosis showed a slight difference between adults and children after initiation of ART treatment, which was 4.3 (95% CI 2.96, 5.71) and 5.0 (95% CI 3.51, 6.50), respectively. Significantly pooled estimates of predictors of TB incidence by a meta-analysis were being anemic (2.30, 95% CI 1.75, 3.02); on clinical stages III and IV (2.26, 95% CI 1.70, 3.02); and not on cotrimoxazole preventive therapy (CPT) (2.16, 95% CI 1.23, 3.72). Besides, a meta-regression revealed that CD4 <200 cells/mm3(2.12, 95% CI 1.17, 3.86) was a positive significant predictor of TB among HIV patients after the initiation of ART.

Conclusions

The current study showed that the pooled incidence of TB among HIV patients was found to be lower than the WHO 2018 national estimate. Being anemic, WHO stages III and IV, not on CPT, CD4<200cells/μl, and being male were significant predictors of tuberculosis. Therefore, the existing strategies to decrease TB should be strengthening.

Study protocol registration

CRD42020155573.
Medicinal plants and their components for wound healing applications
Authors: Sharma Akshay , Khanna Suryamani , Kaur Gaganjot , Singh Inderbir
Published: February 2021

Background

Wound is an anatomical and functional disruption of the skin following an injury. In response to the injury, wound healing is a complex process of tissue repair or remodeling. Historically, plants and plant-based constituents have been extensively used for the treatment and management of different types of wounds. In the current times, different types of biopolymers are being researched for developing economical, sustainable, stable, and effective delivery system for the treatment of wounds.

Main text

The present review article attempts to enlist medicinal plants which have been reported to be effective in the treatment of wounds. Plant constituent-based wound dressings have also been discussed systematically including patented formulations reported by different inventors.

Conclusion

The compiled data aims to update the researchers/scientists which will be helpful in providing them a directional view in understanding the role and importance of plant-based components for the treatment and management of wounds.
Pharmaceutical applications of citric acid
Authors: Nangare Sopan , Vispute Yogini , Tade Rahul , Dugam Shailesh , Patil Pravin
Published: February 2021

Background

Citric acid (CA) is a universal plant and animal-metabolism intermediate. It is a commodity chemical processed and widely used around the world as an excellent pharmaceutical excipient. Notably, CA is offering assorted significant properties viz. biodegradability, biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, safety, etc. Therefore, CA is broadly employed in many sectors including foodstuffs, beverages, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics as a flavoring agent, sequestering agent, buffering agent, etc. From the beginning, CA is a regular ingredient for cosmetic pH-adjustment and as a metallic ion chelator in antioxidant systems. In addition, it is used to improve the taste of pharmaceuticals such as syrups, solutions, elixirs, etc. Furthermore, free CA is also employed as an acidulant in mild astringent preparations.

Main text

In essence, it is estimated that the functionality present in CA provides excellent assets in pharmaceutical applications such as cross-linking, release-modifying capacity, interaction with molecules, capping and coating agent, branched polymer nanoconjugates, gas generating agent, etc. Mainly, the center of attention of the review is to deliver an impression of the CA-based pharmaceutical applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CA is reconnoitered for multiple novels pharmaceutical and biomedical/applications including as a green crosslinker, release modifier, monomer/branched polymer, capping and coating agent, novel disintegrant, absorption enhancer, etc. In the future, CA can be utilized as an excellent substitute for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.

Graphical abstract
The efficacy of delayed, repeated reduction enema in management of intussusception
Authors: Fakhry Tamer , Fawzy Ahmed Nabil , Mahdy Ahmed Taher
Published: February 2021

Background

Management of intussusception varies according to the case, time of presentation, cause, and symptoms. In this study, we focus on describing the demographic and sonographic characteristics of children with intussusception with failed initial enema reduction who were managed by delayed repeated enema attempts and identify predictors associated with successful repeated reduction.

Results

This study was conducted in the period from December 2018 to April 2020 at university hospitals (pediatric surgery unit). This study included 40 patients with intussusceptions; 27 are males, and 13 of them are females. Their ages ranged from 5 months to 3 years old. Patients in this study had failed initial enema reduction attempts under sonographic guidance and had subsequent delayed (≥ 2 h from the initial attempt) repeated enemas made up the study population.

Of the 40 patients, 34 patients (85%) were successfully reduced, and 6 patients (15%) failed reduction and required surgical intervention. There were no deaths, perforation, or resection of gangrenous bowel. Two cases showed recurrences, but required no surgical intervention. It is also noted that early presentation (< 12 h), stable, non-complicated, and with little or no bloody diarrhea are predictors of successful DRE.

Conclusion

Delayed repeated enema in the treatment of intussusception is a viable option in patients with unsuccessful initial enema reduction provided that early presentation, stable vitals, and no signs of perforation or peritonitis are present.
Continuous versus Intermittent Dieting for Fat Loss and Fat-Free Mass Retention in Resistance-trained Adults: The ICECAP Trial
Authors: PEOS JACKSON J. , HELMS ERIC R. , FOURNIER PAUL A. , ONG JULIAN , HALL CARLY , KRIEGER JAMES , SAINSBURY AMANDA
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Can intermittent energy restriction (IER) improve fat loss and fat-free mass retention compared with continuous energy restriction (CER) in resistance-trained adults?

Methods

Sixty-one adults (32 women) with a mean (SD) age of 28.7 (6.5) yr, body weight of 77.2 (16.1) kg, and body fat of 25.5% (6.1%) were randomized to 12 wk of 1) 4 × 3 wk of moderate (m) energy restriction interspersed with 3 × 1 wk of energy balance (mIER; n = 30; 15 wk total) or 2) 12 wk of continuous moderate energy restriction (mCER; n = 31). Analyses of all outcome measures were by intention-to-treat.

Results

After accounting for baseline differences, mIER did not result in lower fat mass or body weight, or greater fat-free mass, compared with mCER after energy restriction. Mean (and 97.5% confidence interval for fat mass at the end of mIER versus mCER was 15.3 (12.5–18.0) kg versus 18.0 (14.3–21.7) kg (P = 0.321), that for fat-free mass was 56.7 (51.5–61.9) kg versus 56.7 (51.4–62.0) kg (P = 0.309), and that for body weight (with 95% confidence interval) was 72.1 (66.4–77.9) versus 74.6 (69.3–80.0) (P = 0.283). There were no differences between interventions in muscle strength or endurance or in resting energy expenditure, leptin, testosterone, insulin-like growth factor-1, free 3,3′,5-triiodothyronine or active ghrelin, or in sleep, muscle dysmorphia, or eating disorder behaviors. However, participants in mIER exhibited lower hunger (P = 0.002) and desire to eat (P = 0.014) compared with those in mCER, and greater satisfaction (P = 0.016) and peptide YY (P = 0.034).

Conclusions

Similar fat loss and fat-free mass retention are achieved with mIER and mCER during 12 wk of energy restriction; however, mIER is associated with reduced appetite.
Predicting Cardiorespiratory Fitness Using the 20-m Shuttle Run Test: New Insights Using Nonlinear Allometry
Authors: NEVILL ALAN M. , DE MENEZES-JUNIOR FRANCISCO JOSÉ , DE JESUS ÍNCARE CORREA , DE FATIMA AGUIAR LOPES MARIA , CORAZZA PATRICIA RIBEIRO PAES , TADIOTTO MAIARA CRISTINA , MOTA JORGE , LEITE NEIVA
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Recently, doubts have been raised concerning the validity of the 20-m shuttle run test (20mSRT) to predict cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in youth. Despite these doubts, authors continue to provide powerful evidence that CRF can be predicted reliably using the 20mSRT albeit using contrasting models. Therefore, we aimed to compare a new linear model with an alternative allometric model to predict CRF (peak oxygen uptake, V˙O2peak) using the 20mSRT.

Methods

The study included 148 adolescents (43% girls) age 13.37 ± 1.84 yr. Adolescents were randomly assigned to validation (n = 91) and cross-validation (n = 57) groups. V˙O2peak was measured using a gas analyzer in both maximal exercise tests in the laboratory and the 20mSRT. Multiple linear regression methods were applied to develop the linear models using the 20mSRT (laps), body mass index, and body fat percentage. Alternative allometric models were also proposed/fitted using the 20mSRT (laps), height, and body mass.

Results

The criterion validity values of both the linear and the allomeric models were found to be acceptable, with R
2 = 82.5% and 82.7% respectively, providing reassuring evidence that the 20mSRT can be used with confidence to predict CRF. However, the allometric model identified a height-to-mass ratio, not dissimilar to the inverse body mass index (known to be a measure of leanness), to be associated with CRF. The allometric model also revealed that the rise in energy cost (V˙O2peak) with increasing laps was exponential. This will more accurately reflect the nonlinear rise in energy demand of shuttle running as the test progresses to exhaustion.

Conclusions

These observations provided powerful evidence that allometric models are more than satisfactory in terms of both criterion and construct validity when predicting CRF (V˙O2peak) using the 20mSRT.
Respiratory and Perceptual Responses to High-Intensity Interval Exercise in Obese Adults
Authors: WONG MICHAEL W. H. , ROSS NICHOLAS A. , CHIEN LUNG-CHANG , BHAMMAR DHARINI M.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Although high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) has emerged as an attractive alternative to continuous exercise (CE), the effects of HIIE on ventilatory constraints and dyspnea on exertion have not been studied in obese adults, and thus, tolerability of HIIE in obese adults is unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in respiratory and perceptual responses between HIIE and CE in nonobese and obese adults.

Methods

Ten nonobese (5 men; 24.1 ± 6.2 yr; body mass index, 23.0 ± 1.3 kg·m−2) and 10 obese (5 men; 24.2 ± 3.8 yr; body mass index, 37 ± 4.6 kg·m−2) adults participated in this study. Respiratory and perceptual responses were assessed during HIIE (eight 30-s intervals at 80% maximal work rate, with 45-s recovery periods) and two 6-min sessions of CE, completed below and above ventilatory threshold (Vth).

Results

Despite similar work rate, HIIE was completed at a higher relative intensity in obese when compared with nonobese participants (68.8% ± 9.4% vs 58.9% ± 5.6% maximal oxygen uptake, respectively; P = 0.01). Expiratory flow limitation and/or dynamic hyperinflation was present during HIIE in 50% of the obese but in none of the nonobese participants. Ratings of perceived breathlessness were highest during HIIE (5.3 ± 2.4), followed by CEaboveVth (2.5 ± 1.6), and CEbelowVth (0.9 ± 0.7; P < 0.05) in obese participants. Unpleasantness associated with breathlessness was higher in obese (4.2 ± 3.0) when compared with nonobese participants (0.6 ± 1.3; P = 0.005) during HIIE.

Conclusions

HIIE, when prescribed relative to maximal work rate, is associated with greater ventilatory constraints and dyspnea on exertion when compared with CE in obese adults. CE may be more tolerable when compared with HIIE for obese adults.
Knowledge Spillovers and Corporate Investment in Scientific Research
Authors: Arora Ashish , Belenzon Sharon , Sheer Lia
Published: February 2021

Using data on 800,000 corporate publications and patent citations to these publications between 1980 and 2015, we study how corporate investment in research is linked to its use in the firm’s inventions, and to spillovers to rivals. We find that private returns to corporate research depend on the balance between two opposing forces: the benefits from the use of science in own downstream inventions, and the costs of spillovers to rivals. Consistent with this, firms produce more research when it is used internally, but less research when it is used by rivals. As firms become more sensitive to rivals using their science, they are likely to reduce the share of research in R&D. (JEL D22, D25, G31, I23, O31, O33, O34)
The Abolition of Immigration Restrictions and the Performance of Firms and Workers: Evidence from Switzerland
Authors: Beerli Andreas , Ruffner Jan , Siegenthaler Michael , Peri Giovanni
Published: February 2021

We study a reform that granted European cross-border workers free access to the Swiss labor market and had a stronger effect on regions close to the border. The greater availability of cross-border workers increased foreign employment substantially. Although many cross-border workers were highly educated, wages of highly educated natives increased. The reason is a simultaneous increase in labor demand: the reform increased the size, productivity, and innovation performance of skill-intensive incumbent firms and attracted new firms, creating opportunities for natives to pursue managerial jobs. These effects are mainly driven by firms that reported skill shortages before the reform. (JEL J15, J23, J24, J31, J61, K37)
Social Media, News Consumption, and Polarization: Evidence from a Field Experiment
Authors: Levy Ro’ee
Published: February 2021

Does the consumption of ideologically congruent news on social media exacerbate polarization? I estimate the effects of social media news exposure by conducting a large field experiment randomly offering participants subscriptions to conservative or liberal news outlets on Facebook. I collect data on the causal chain of media effects: subscriptions to outlets, exposure to news on Facebook, visits to online news sites, and sharing of posts, as well as changes in political opinions and attitudes. Four main findings emerge. First, random variation in exposure to news on social media substantially affects the slant of news sites that individuals visit. Second, exposure to counter-attitudinal news decreases negative attitudes toward the opposing political party. Third, in contrast to the effect on attitudes, I find no evidence that the political leanings of news outlets affect political opinions. Fourth, Facebook’s algorithm is less likely to supply individuals with posts from counter-attitudinal outlets, conditional on individuals subscribing to them. Together, the results suggest that social media algorithms may limit exposure to counter-attitudinal news and thus increase polarization. (JEL C93, D72, L82)
Frequency of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) among patients with Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Rahat Adeel , Kamani Lubna
Published: February 2021

Background and Objective: Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) is a widespread infection across the globe having a high prevalence among the developing countries. Iron Deficiency is anticipated to be the most prevalent micronutrient deficiency globally, the most frequent cause of anemia. Our objective was to determine frequency of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) among patients with H. Pylori gastritis.

Methods: It was a cross-sectional prospective study. Patients fulfilling inclusion criteria were enrolled at Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. Blood samples were taken for serum iron, transferrin saturation, ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity and H.pylori assessed by urea breath test, stool for antigen, Rapid urease test or histopathology.

Results: 112 patients with H. Pylori infection with anemia were included. 53 (47.3%) were males & 59 (52.7%) were females with mean age of 38.4464 ± 9.00634 years. Iron deficiency anemia was seen in 42 patients (37.5%).

Conclusion: IDA was noted in 37.5% of cases. H. Pylori infection is a frequent cause of iron-deficiency anemia of previously unidentified origin among adults.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.3.3944

How to cite this:Rahat A, Kamani L. Frequency of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) among patients with Helicobacter pylori infection. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(3):776-781. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.3.3944

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Case Report: Mosaicism of a novel nonsense variant in the neurofibromin gene underlies a mosaic generalized NF1 phenotype
Authors: Kwong Hui Li , Tay Yong-Kwang , Tan Ene-Choo
Published: February 2021

Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a neurocutaneous syndrome characterized by multiple café-au-lait macules, cutaneous neurofibromas or plexiform neurofibromas, iris Lisch nodules, axillary and inguinal freckling. Mosaicism in NF1 can either present as a generalized disease, or in a localized (segmental) manner. Mosaic generalized NF1 may have presentations that are similar to generalized NF1 or have a milder phenotype and hence may be under-recognised in clinical practice. We report a nonsense mutation in the NF1 gene in a 55-year old Chinese male with the mosaic generalized phenotype. He reported noticing increasing numbers of skin-colored papules over his face, neck, back and abdomen when he was about 40 years old. From both next-generation and Sanger sequencing data, the variant appeared to be mosaic and present at about 24%. It is in exon 39 and has not been reported in any database or published literature.
Measure of unevenness in human genomes, described as a self-affine phase transition in a 'spin-chain’ model
Authors: Feranchuk Sergey
Published: February 2021

Background: Non-Gaussian distribution of polymorphic positions across a genome can substantially influence the results of any approach to molecular evolution based on a 'classical' probability model. The infinite dispersion of non-Gaussian perturbations is a challenge in an attempt to accept it in a probability-based model of evolution.

Methods: Here a model is proposed where non-Gaussian distribution is introduced to an exact solution of the 'Ising model'; it describes a behavior of one-dimensional chain of spins in an approaching to a phase transition. The distribution of fragments which are identical between two genomes is similar to distribution of islands of spins with the same orientation, in the model where non-integer dimension is introduced.

Results: Application of this model allows us to compare the relative contributions of non-Gaussian perturbations for pairs of human genomes from different ethnic groups. An evolution of the three human races in a most compact presentation is considered, rates of development on the separated stages of the evolution are assumed to be proportional to a value of relative unevenness between the appropriate groups of genomes. In the resolved model, the meaningful details of the separation between Asian and European races are clarified, in a period around ten thousand years ago; a particular viewpoint to the separation of the African race is also presented.

Conclusion: The proposed approximation of non-Gaussian perturbations in human genomes allows to support the statements which are otherwise missed in the scientific investigations of the early history of modern humans.
Geoportal Turístico de una Región Rural como Medio de Difusión de su Oferta y Recursos. Caso de Estudio: Extremadura.
Authors: Engelmo-Moriche Angela , Nieto-Masot Ana , Horcajo-Romo Ana , Cárdenas-Alonso Gema
Published: February 2021

El turismo en Extremadura se ha visto favorecido, durante las últimas décadas, debido a nuevas tendencias (turismo rural, turismo gastronómico, etc.) que han aumentado el número de visitantes que eligen la región como destino de vacaciones debido a su amplia gama de recursos y equipamientos. El objetivo de este trabajo es elaborar una base de datos digital que permita dar a conocer la oferta y los recursos turísticos de la región, adaptándola a las demandas actuales del mercado, mediante la creación de un SIG Web o Geoportal. Para el diseño del mismo se empleó la herramienta ArcGIS Online, que ofrece una experiencia gratuita y que da como resultado un visor intuitivo y adecuado a las nuevas tecnologías.
Intervenciones para reducir el estigma hacia personas con trastornos mentales graves en Iberoamérica: una revisión sistemática
Authors: Vielma-Aguilera Alexis , Castro-Alzate Elvis , Saldivia Bórquez Sandra , Grandón-Fernández Pamela
Published: February 2021

Introducción: el objetivo principal de la presente revisión fue compilar sistemáticamente datos sobre intervenciones para reducir el estigma en Ibero-América. Objetivo: describir las características y determinar los principales resultados de las intervenciones para reducir el estigma hacia las personas con trastornos mentales graves que se han desarrollado en América Latina entre los años 2007-2017. Materiales y métodos: se realizó una revisión sistemática de artículos de bases de datos electrónicas como MEDLINE, EBSCOHOST, EMBASE, LILACS y SCIELO, y literatura gris obtenida de Google Scholar, publicada en inglés, español y portugués que abarca el período comprendido entre enero de 2007 y diciembre de 2017. Para evaluar la calidad de los estudios cuantitativos, se utilizaron los criterios ROBINS para los estudios cuasi-experimentales y experimentales, y los criterios CASPe para los estudios cualitativos. Resultados: se seleccionó un total de dieciséis estudios que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión; 75% fueron cuantitativos y de estos, una cuarta parte no cumplió con los criterios de calidad. Conclusiones: Actualmente, existen pocas intervenciones para reducir el estigma en Iberoamérica y son principalmente a corto plazo. Nuestra evaluación de la literatura disponible ayuda a identificar aspectos que deberían incluirse en investigaciones futuras para reducir los posibles sesgos que podrían surgir al desarrollar este tipo de estudios.
Integrating collaborative localization into professional translator training
Authors: Sanchez Ramos Maria del Mar
Published: February 2021

Non-professional translation (NPT) has attracted increasing attention in translation studies in recent years. As a consequence, translator training needs to take NPT into account in the translation curriculum. In this article I report the findings of an exploratory study conducted to implement and evaluate an online collaborative localization project as an example of NPT. Drawing on quantitative and qualitative methods, the findings show that the trainees had a positive attitude towards NPT practices and were highly satisfied with the inclusion of NPT in the localization curriculum.
The Order-Dependent Luce Model
Authors: Tserenjigmid Gerelt
Published: February 2021

I develop a simple axiomatic model that incorporates the order effect: the ordering of alternatives (e.g., ranking of universities, the location of products in a grocery store, the order of candidates on a ballot) affects choice frequencies. In my model, the probability of choosing an alternative is proportional to the utility of the alternative, similar to the Luce model. However, the utility of the alternative depends on the relative ordering of the alternative in the menu. I characterize this model by two weakenings of Luce’s axiom of independence of irrelevant alternatives. I discuss how to identify the ordering of alternatives from choice data when it is not observed. Finally, I apply my model to an optimal ordering problem and to experimental data on intertemporal choice.

This paper was accepted by Manel Baucells, decision analysis.
The Value of Autonomous Vehicles for Last-Mile Deliveries in Urban Environments
Authors: Reed Sara , Campbell Ann Melissa , Thomas Barrett W.
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate that autonomous-assisted delivery can yield significant improvements relative to today’s system in which a delivery person must park the vehicle before delivering packages. We model an autonomous vehicle that can drop off the delivery person at selected points in the city where the delivery person makes deliveries to the final addresses on foot. Then, the vehicle picks up the delivery person and travels to the next reloading point. In this way, the delivery person would never need to look for parking or walk back to a parking place. Based on the number of customers, driving speed of the vehicle, walking speed of the delivery person, and the time for loading packages, we characterize the optimal solution to the autonomous case on a solid rectangular grid of customers, showing the optimal solution can be found in polynomial time. To benchmark the completion time of the autonomous case, we introduce a traditional model for package delivery services that includes the time to search for parking. If the time to find parking is ignored, we show the introduction of an autonomous vehicle reduces the completion time of delivery to all customers by 0%–33%. When nonzero times to find parking are considered, the delivery person saves 30%–77% with higher values achieved for longer parking times, smaller capacities, and lower fixed time for loading packages.

This paper was accepted by Vishal Gaur, operations management.
Robust Emergency Relief Supply Planning for Foreseen Disasters Under Evacuation-Side Uncertainty
Authors: Dalal Jyotirmoy , Üster Halit
Published: February 2021

For foreseen natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes or floods), the uncertainties faced in relief logistics primarily stem from evacuation activities. We present a strategic planning problem to supply relief items by considering uncertainties in disaster location, intensity, duration, and evacuee compliance. To ensure time- and cost-effectiveness in relief distribution, we develop a robust optimization model to determine centralized supply locations, and supply quantities for different transportation modes in a five-tier network. In doing so, we consider the interaction between evacuation and supply-side activities and capture the inherent uncertainties using a combination of event and box uncertainty representations. Our model provides a decision maker with the flexibility of including or excluding the time dependency of evacuation-related uncertainties. Accordingly, it suggests a threshold time window for relief distribution, beyond which either the system cost increases or the benefits of early distribution diminish. Although the model primarily aids a policymaker in strategic preparedness, its tactical variant can aid the efficient distribution. We devise an enhanced Benders decomposition-based efficient solution method to solve realistic-size problems. In a case study using geographic information system data, we highlight the complex dynamics among various system components and discuss the resulting time-cost trade-offs that also influence the network structure.
A Dai-Liao Hybrid Hestenes-Stiefel and Fletcher-Revees Methods for Unconstrained Optimization
Authors: Salihu Nasiru , Odekunle Mathew Remilekun , Saleh Also Mohammed , Salihu Suraj
Published: February 2021

Some problems have no analytical solution or too difficult to solve by scientists, engineers, and mathematicians, so the development of numerical methods to obtain approximate solutions became necessary. Gradient methods are more efficient when the function to be minimized continuously in its first derivative. Therefore, this article presents a new hybrid Conjugate Gradient (CG) method to solve unconstrained optimization problems. The method requires the first-order derivatives but overcomes the steepest descent method’s shortcoming of slow convergence and needs not to save or compute the second-order derivatives needed by the Newton method. The CG update parameter is suggested from the Dai-Liao conjugacy condition as a convex combination of Hestenes-Stiefel and Fletcher-Revees algorithms by employing an optimal modulating choice parameterto avoid matrix storage. Numerical computation adopts an inexact line search to obtain the step-size that generates a decent property, showing that the algorithm is robust and efficient. The scheme converges globally under Wolfe line search, and it’s like is suitable in compressive sensing problems and M-tensor systems.
Nursing students' knowledge of palliative care: a short literature review
Authors: Alhamdoun Asala , Al Qadire Mohammad , Aldiabat Khaldoun M , Al-Rawajfah Omar
Published: February 2021

Background:

Health professionals must be knowledgeable and skilled in providing palliative care. This short report reviews the literature that has assessed student nurses' knowledge of palliative care.

Method:

The following databases were searched: CINHAL, ScienceDirect, Medline, PubMed and Google Scholar for manuscripts published from 2014 to 2020. Only six articles met the inclusion criteria and were thoroughly reviewed.

Findings:

Students were found to have a poor knowledge of palliative care, especially the management of a patient's symptoms and the definition of palliative care.

Conclusion:

Integrating palliative care education within nursing curricula is a priority, although the best method to accomplish this is yet to be established.
Effects of deep friction massage and dry needling therapy on night pain and shoulder internal rotation in subacromial pain syndrome: 1-year follow up of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ekici Gamze , Özcan Şerife , Öztürk Burak Yağmur , Öztürk Başar , Ekici Berkay
Published: February 2021

Background/Aims

Shoulder problems are common in the general population. The aim of this research was to compare the short and long-term effects of trigger point deep friction massage and trigger point dry needling therapy on rest, activity, and the intensity of night shoulder pain and shoulder internal rotation in Subacromial Pain Syndrome.

Methods

Out of 73 outpatients diagnosed with Subacromial Pain Syndrome, 40 were selected according to agreed criteria and were randomly assigned to two groups. A total of 19 patients received trigger point deep friction massage and 21 received trigger point dry needling therapy. The trigger point deep friction massage group received treatment over 3 weeks and the trigger point dry needling therapy group received treatments over 4 weeks. Both groups received six treatment sessions and a programme of post-treatment exercises. The shoulder internal rotation angle was measured using a goniometer, and pain intensities were measured using a visual analogue scale before the first session, after six sessions and after 1 year.

Results

According to both the short- and long-term data, significant improvements were seen in both groups for all parameters. However, when the groups were compared, no significant difference was found between the two interventions, although the trigger point deep friction massage intervention showed earlier improvements as the treatments could be carried out in 3 weeks, rather than the 4 weeks required for the trigger point dry needling therapy sessions.

Conclusions

Both trigger point deep friction massage and trigger point dry needling therapy are effective in improving pain and shoulder internal rotation. Both groups maintained significant clinical improvement throughout the year. Although both interventions produced good results, trigger point deep friction massage treatments were completed in a shorter time and so demonstrated earlier improvements. Therefore, Trigger point deep friction massage may be regarded as the preferred option, particularly as no equipment is needed and is a non-invasive method of treatment.
Model of Holistic Education-Based Boarding School: A Case Study at Senior High School
Authors: Rianawaty Ida , Suyata Suyata , Dwiningrum Siti Irene Astuti , Yanto Bagus Endri
Published: February 2021

This study aims to analyze the implementation of holistic education and determining its supporting and hindering factors at a boarding high school in Malang, Indonesia. The method of this research is qualitative descriptive with a case study approach in the State Senior High School 10 Malang, Indonesia. The data collection technique was done through interviews and observations. The data analysis employed data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions making. The results showed that holistic education in the State Senior High School 10 Malang included the academic, leadership program, extracurricular, youth entrepreneurship, and environment caring programs. The supporting factors of the holistic education were curriculum, professional teachers, principal leadership, learning process, facilities and infrastructure, school management, three educational centers, and school culture. Meanwhile, the inhibiting factors included the low number of boarding teachers and the high operational costs. The results suggest that all schools should provide equal access to qualified education services to the whole nation through holistic education programs to produce intelligent and competitive students.