bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations Between Macronutrients From Different Dietary Sources and Serum Lipids in 24 639 UK Biobank Study Participants
Authors: Kelly Rebecca K. , Watling Cody Z. , Tong Tammy Y.N. , Piernas Carmen , Carter Jennifer L. , Papier Keren , Key Timothy J. , Perez-Cornago Aurora
Published: May 2021

Objective:

Macronutrients may relate differently with serum lipids depending on their source, and understanding this relationship is important for cardiovascular disease prevention. We aimed to investigate the associations between macronutrients and macronutrients from different sources with serum lipids in UK Biobank.

Approach and Results:

Serum lipids were obtained from serum collected at baseline in 24 639 participants with diet assessed using ≥2 twenty-four–hour dietary assessments completed at baseline and during follow-up. Multivariable linear regressions were conducted to calculate geometric mean concentrations of serum lipids by quintiles of macronutrients. We modeled the association between isoenergetic substitution of 5% energy intake from saturated fatty acids (SFA) with other macronutrients and serum lipids. Free sugar intake was positively associated with triglycerides (0.15 mmol/L geometric mean difference between highest and lowest quintile of intake [95% CI, 0.12–0.17 mmol/L]), whereas nonfree sugar intake was inversely associated with triglycerides (−0.08 [−0.10 to −0.05]). SFA intake was positively associated with LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; 0.17 [0.13–0.20]), omega-3 fatty acid intake was inversely associated with triglycerides (−0.15 [−0.17 to −0.12]). Modeled substitution of SFA with polyunsaturated fatty acids was associated with lower total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides.

Conclusions:

The relationship between carbohydrates and triglycerides may depend on their quality, and reducing free sugar intake may be important in cardiovascular disease prevention. Consistent with previous studies, SFA intake is associated with LDL-C and substitution of SFA intake with polyunsaturated fatty acids intake may be associated with a more favorable serum lipid profile.
Immune Cells and Immunotherapy for Cardiac Injury and Repair
Authors: Rurik Joel G. , Aghajanian Haig , Epstein Jonathan A.
Published: May 2021

Cardiac injury remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite significant advances, a full understanding of why the heart fails to fully recover function after acute injury, and why progressive heart failure frequently ensues, remains elusive. No therapeutics, short of heart transplantation, have emerged to reliably halt or reverse the inexorable progression of heart failure in the majority of patients once it has become clinically evident. To date, most pharmacological interventions have focused on modifying hemodynamics (reducing afterload, controlling blood pressure and blood volume) or on modifying cardiac myocyte function. However, important contributions of the immune system to normal cardiac function and the response to injury have recently emerged as exciting areas of investigation. Therapeutic interventions aimed at harnessing the power of immune cells hold promise for new treatment avenues for cardiac disease. Here, we review the immune response to heart injury, its contribution to cardiac fibrosis, and the potential of immune modifying therapies to affect cardiac repair.
A new species of asterinaceous fungi, Asterina imbertiae sp. nov. from Kerala, India
Authors: SABEENA ALIYARUKUNJU , BIJU HARIDAS , DHANUSHA SUDHAKARAN SUJATHA
Published: May 2021

A new black mildew fungus, Asterina imbertiae infecting leaves of an endemic plant Garcinia imbertii (Clusiaceae) collected from Pandipath and Ponmudi forest areas, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala is described and illustrated based on morphology. A taxonomic description and illustrations are provided. A key and a table are also given for Asterina species occurring on Clusiaceae.
Introduction to the Special Issue on the Cultural Therapeutics of Film
Authors: Greene Eric , Gupta Nisha
Published: May 2021

This interdisciplinary special issue explores the synergy between psychotherapy and filmmaking—particularly how film can serve as a powerful healing function by bringing voice, representation, and light to the all-too-often overlooked and shadowed aspects of psychological and cultural life, similar to the work of psychotherapy. To understand the culturally therapeutic aspects of filmmaking, this issue features psychological and cinematic insights from two fields of experts and their crafts: scholars and their writing and filmmakers and their films. The unique approach of this special issue provides new possibilities for interdisciplinary collaboration between psychologists and filmmakers to explore the therapeutic function of film for society as well as avenues for film to address, heal, and transform the pressing cultural issues of our times.
Effects of the fabric substrate on performance and durability of textile-embroidered dipole antennas
Authors: Ventura Heura , Parés Ferran , Fernández-García Raul , Gil Ignacio , Ardanuy Monica
Published: May 2021

In this work, several fabrics with different composition and structure have been used as the substrate for the production of wearable textile-embroidered dipole antennas. The performance of the antennas has been determined by measuring their resonance frequency, return loss and bandwidth. To determine their durability as wearable fabrics, the performance has been assessed before and after subjecting the antennas to washing and abrasion cycles. The results revealed that the woven fabrics presented a good washing fastness, even in fabrics having elastic fibers or low-crimp structures. In all cases, a good performance of the antennas was maintained after 30 washing cycles. For the abrasion cycles, the substrates with higher stability (measured as the crimp ratio) presented a higher wear fastness, whereas a higher variability was observed for the substrates with lower stability.
Assessment of postoperative pain management practices in Cameroon, Ivory Coast and Senegal: A multi-national survey
Authors: Kane Oumar , Boua Narcisse , Hentchoya Romuald , Seck Modou , Fall Amy N , Barry Mamadou S
Published: May 2021

Inadequately controlled postoperative pain impacts patients’ functional recovery and may affect the quality of life after surgery. Our multinational, cross-sectional study conducted online between November 2017 and January 2018 surveyed anaesthetists’ conformity with established postoperative pain control guidelines and looked at pain assessment, dissemination of information to patients, staff training and creation and use of treatment protocols. Of the 170 respondents, only six applied postoperative pain management recommendations. The proportion of respondents who reported regular staff training; the regular provision of pre-operative information to patients; the existence and use of written protocols; and the number conducting at least one pain assessment a day was not just suboptimal, but embarrassingly low.
Oligometastatic Parathyroid Carcinoma Presenting as Neck Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Yu Katherine M. , Trimble Duncan J. , Conner Christopher R. , Sheinberg Dallas L. , Low Garren M. I. , Saluja Karan , Schmitt Karl M. , Karni Ron J.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is an exceedingly rare, slow-growing but progressive endocrine malignancy that represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Vertebral metastasis of PC is remarkable, with only 3 prior cases of spinal metastasis reported in the literature.

Case Description:

A 62-year-old woman presented with 1 week of neck pain radiating down her right arm. Cervical x-ray revealed a lytic lesion of the C4 vertebral body. Lab work revealed hypercalcemia with an elevated parathyroid hormone level. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed frank destruction of the C4 vertebral body and pedicles by PC. She was treated with corpectomy, mass excision, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, postoperative radiotherapy, and nonspecific inhibitors of active tumor pathways. Her symptoms resolved postoperatively, and she has remained negative for reoccurrence at 15-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

To the authors’ knowledge, we report the first described cervical spine metastasis of PC. Additionally, we review the treatment of this rare neoplasm in an extremely rare location in the age of tumor sequencing and morphoproteomic analysis.
When good news backfires: Feelings of disadvantage in the Corona crisis
Authors: Filsinger Maximilian , Freitag Markus
Published: May 2021

The Corona crisis is an unprecedented challenge for societies. Lockdowns and physical distancing orders have generated economic, social and health-related consequences in many countries. In this regard, we evaluate how information about positive economic expectations during the crisis affects citizens’ attitudes. Using a real-world survey experiment, our analyses indicate that information about a positive economic outlook and governmental support to mitigate the crisis actually promote people’s subjective feelings of disadvantage rather than reducing them. Interestingly, it seems that information about economic recovery that opens up opportunities may backfire due to increased upward comparisons and perceived competition. Structural equation analyses suggest that this relationship is mediated by critical views about democratic institutions during the crisis. Citizens lose confidence in their governments and democratic decision-makers to uphold principles of fairness after the crisis ends. Our results have important implications on how to communicate measures that aim to deal with the crisis.
Benefits of combination therapy of hydrocortisone, ascorbic acid and thiamine in sepsis and septic shock: A systematic review
Authors: Lee Young Ran , Vo Kandace , Varughese Jincy Thazhampallatu
Published: May 2021

Background:

Sepsis and septic shock are severe medical conditions that can damage multiple organs with a higher risk of mortality. Recently, the combination of hydrocortisone, ascorbic acid and thiamine (HAT) was hypothesized to work synergistically to reverse septic shock and reduce mortality.

Aim:

To ascertain the efficacy of HAT therapy and compare whether HAT therapy is more beneficial compared to the standard of care in sepsis and septic shock patients.

Methods:

PubMed, Clinicaltrials.gov , Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane and Embase are databases that were used to identify trials that conducted a study of the combination of HAT in sepsis or septic shock.

Results:

There were 134 articles identified through a database search and 16 from other sources, which were subsequently reduced to 11 trials (six randomized trials and five non-randomized trials) that were deemed appropriate for inclusion in this review. Most of the outcomes from these studies focused on mortality, the need for renal replacement therapy, duration of vasopressor use, changes in Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, procalcitonin clearance and lengths of intensive care unit stay.

Conclusion:

Due to inconsistent results from clinical studies, the benefits of HAT therapy cannot be confirmed at this point in sepsis and septic shock. Currently, there are at least 20 randomized controlled trials testing HAT in various combinations and dosages in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock. The results of these studies are required before definitive conclusions can be made regarding the impact of this novel treatment strategy on the morbidity and mortality of patients with sepsis.
Simondon Contra New Materialism: Political Anthropology Reloaded
Authors: Bardin Andrea
Published: May 2021

This paper responds to an invitation to historians of political thought to enter the debate on new materialism. It combines Simondon’s philosophy of individuation with some aspects of post-humanist and new materialist thought, without abandoning a more classically ‘historical’ characterization of materialism. Two keywords drawn from Barad and Simondon respectively – ‘ontoepistemology’ and ‘axiontology’ – represent the red thread of a narrative that connects the early modern invention of civil science (emblematically represented here by the ‘conceptual couple’ Descartes-Hobbes) to Wiener’s cybernetic theory of society. The political stakes common to these forms of mechanical materialism were attacked ontologically, epistemologically and politically by Simondon. His approach, I will argue, opens the path for a genuine materialist critique of the political anthropology implicit in modern political thought, and shifts political thinking from politics conceived as a problem to be solved to politics as an arena of strategic experimentation.
Weather research & forecasting model and MERRA-2 data for wind energy evaluation at different altitudes in Bolivia
Authors: Mamani Rober , Hendrick Patrick
Published: May 2021

Wind energy is one of the most promising alternatives for a clean and ecological electricity generation. However, the implementation of efficient wind farms requires accurate data and measurements. This work analyses the MERRA-2 satellite datasets to compare and complement it with WRF simulations in different regions and altitudes in Bolivia, such as the Altiplano, Amazon and Chaco. A 41 years of hourly wind speed from MERRA-2 was used to analyze wind averages and characteristics over the year. WRF simulations for representative months were used to analyze wind shear and wind flows along Bolivia. The main results are related to wind speed index in different sites which varied between 0.90 and 1.09 and the periods of high wind speeds that is May—October in the Altiplano, and June—December in the Amazon and Chaco. However, the main findings are the differences between MERRA-2 data and WRF simulations that is linked to the topography of the sites in study.
Application potential of three-dimensional silk fibroin scaffold using mesenchymal stem cells for cardiac regeneration
Authors: Cetin Yuksel , Sahin Merve G , Kok Fatma N
Published: May 2021

Cardiac tissue engineering focusing on biomaterial scaffolds incorporating cells from different sources has been explored to regenerate or repair damaged area as a lifesaving approach.The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiomyocyte differentiation potential of human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (hAD-MSCs) as an alternative cell source on silk fibroin (SF) scaffolds for cardiac tissue engineering. The change in surface morphology of SF scaffolds depending on SF concentration (1–6%, w/v) and increase in their porosity upon application of unidirectional freezing were visualized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Swelling ratio was found to increase 2.4 fold when SF amount was decreased from 4% to 2%. To avoid excessive swelling, 4% SF scaffold with swelling ratio of 10% (w/w) was chosen for further studies.Biodegradation rate of SF scaffolds depended on enzymatic activity was found to be 75% weight loss of SF scaffolds at the day 14. The phenotype of hAD-MSCs and their multi-linage potential into chondrocytes, osteocytes, and adipocytes were shown by flow cytometry and immunohistochemical staining, respectively.The viability of hAD-MSCs on 3D SF scaffolds was determined as 90%, 118%, and 138% after 1, 7, and 14 days, respectively. The use of 3D SF scaffolds was associated with increased production of cardiomyogenic biomarkers: α-actinin, troponin I, connexin 43, and myosin heavy chain. The fabricated 3D SF scaffolds were proved to sustain hAD-MSCs proliferation and cardiomyogenic differentiation therefore, hAD-MSCs on 3D SF scaffolds may useful tool to regenerate or repair damaged area using cardiac tissue engineering techniques.
Vitamin S: Why Is Social Contact, Even With Strangers, So Important to Well-Being?
Authors: Van Lange Paul A. M. , Columbus Simon
Published: May 2021

Even before COVID-19, it was well known in psychological science that people’s well-being is strongly served by the quality of their close relationships. But is well-being also served by social contact with people who are known less well? In this article, we discuss three propositions that support the conclusion that the benefits of social contact also derive from interactions with acquaintances and even strangers. The propositions state that most interaction situations with strangers are benign (Proposition 1), that most strangers are benign (Proposition 2), and that most interactions with strangers enhance well-being (Proposition 3). These propositions are supported, first, by recent research designed to illuminate the primary features of interaction situations. This research shows that situations with strangers often represent low conflict of interest. Also, in interactions with strangers, most people exhibit high levels of low-cost cooperation (social mindfulness) and, if the need is urgent, high levels of high-cost helping. We close by sharing research examples showing that even very subtle interactions with strangers yield short-term happiness. Broader implications for COVID-19 and urbanization are discussed.
Conduct and evaluation of final-year medical student summative assessments in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine during COVID-19: an Australian University Medical School experience
Authors: Looi Jeffrey C L , Maguire Paul , Bonner Daniel , Reay Rebecca E , Finlay Angus J F , Keightley Philip , Tedeschi Michael , Wardle Claire , Kramer David
Published: May 2021

Objective:

To describe and share with the medical education community, the conduct and evaluation of summative graduate medical student assessments in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine during COVID-19 at an Australian university.

Methods:

Summative assessments were redesigned as follows: written assessments were administered via an online platform (WATTLE), while the Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) were conducted via a secure video-conferencing software (Zoom).

Results:

Our preliminary analysis of the summative assessments indicated that both examiners and students adapted to the format, with overall performance of the students showing no variation due to timing of the assessment (earlier versus later in the day) and performances similar to face-to-face assessments in previous years. Examiners also expressed positive feedback on the assessment process.

Conclusions:

Our graduate fourth-year medical student summative assessments were effectively conducted using online and video-conferencing software in accordance with existing COVID-19 pandemic public health measures for physical distancing and hygiene.
Effect of Tourist-To-Tourist Encounters: Increased Conflict or Reduced Social Distance?
Authors: Bai Shizhen , Chang Hsuan-Hsuan
Published: May 2021

This study investigated tourist-to-tourist interactions among those with different nationalities (Japan and Taiwan) and analyzed whether tourists’ nationality significantly affects their perceptions of conflict, including cultural and behavioral conflict. Furthermore, the study also examined whether the tourists’ role typology and nationality could moderate the relationship between encounter level and the resulting conflict or diminished social distance. Results indicated that the Taiwanese tourists experienced more conflict than did their Japanese counterparts, more tourist-to-tourist encounters minimized social distance, and different perceptions of role affected the encounter reactions (either conflict or mutual understanding). In the end, the tourists’ role typology moderated the relationship between encounter level and encounter conflict; and tourist’s nationality has the moderating effect on the relationship between encounter level and social distance. In the end, the key research findings regarding tourist-to-tourist encounters and interactions were also discussed from the perspective of Confucianism.
Sense of purpose in life and motivation, barriers, and engagement in physical activity and sedentary behavior: Test of a mediational model
Authors: Sutin Angelina R , Luchetti Martina , Stephan Yannick , Terracciano Antonio
Published: May 2021

Purpose in life is associated with greater engagement in physical activity. The present research ( N = 3473) addresses whether motivations and barriers to physical activity mediate this relation concurrently and prospectively early in the coronavirus pandemic. Higher purpose was associated with greater intrinsic, identified, and external motivation for physical activity and fewer barriers. Intrinsic motivation was a robust mediator of the relation between purpose and more physical activity and less sedentary behavior reported concurrently and prospectively; identified motivation mediated the relation with physical activity. Purpose in life is associated with being more physically active through both greater enjoyment and valuing its benefits.
Clinical laboratory services for primary healthcare centers in urban cities: a pilot ACO model of ten primary healthcare centers
Authors: Tashkandi Soha A. , Alenezi Ali , Bakhsh Ismail , AlJuryyan Abdullah , AlShehry Zahir H , AlRashdi Saeed , Guzman Maryjane , Pono Marvin , Lim Franklin , Tabudlong April Rose , Elwan Lamees , Fagih Musa , Aboabat Ahmad
Published: May 2021

Background

Primary healthcare centers (PHC) ensure that patients receive comprehensive care from promotion and prevention to treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care in a familiar environment. It is designed to provide first-contact, continuous, comprehensive, and coordinated patient care that will help achieve equity in the specialty healthcare system. The healthcare in Saudi Arabia is undergoing transformation to Accountable Care Organizations (ACO) model. In order for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to achieve its transformational goals in healthcare, the improvement of PHCs’ quality and utilization is crucial. An integral part of this service is the laboratory services.

Methods

This paper presents a pilot model for the laboratory services of PHC's in urban cities. The method was based on the FOCUS-PDCA quality improvement method focusing on the pre-analytical phase of the laboratory testing as well as the Saudi Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutes (CBAHI) gap analysis and readiness within the ten piloted primary healthcare centers.

Results

The Gap analysis, revealed in-consistency in the practice, lead to lower the quality of the service, which was seen in the low performance of the chosen key performance indicators (KPI's) (high rejection rates, lower turn-around times (TAT) for test results) and also in the competency of the staff. Following executing the interventions, and by using some of the ACO Laboratory strategies; the KPI rates were improved, and our results exceeded the targets that we have set to reach during the first year. Also introducing the electronic connectivity improved the TAT KPI and made many of the processes leaner.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that the centralization of PHC's laboratory service to an accredited reference laboratory and implementing the national accreditation standards improved the testing process and lowered the cost, for the mass majority of the routine laboratory testing. Moreover, the model shed the light on how crucial the pre-analytical phase for laboratory quality improvement process, its effect on cost reduction, and the importance of staff competency and utilization.
Feasibility and acceptability of “active” classroom workstations among French university students and lecturers: a pilot study
Authors: Grosprêtre Sidney , Ennequin Gael , Peseux Sophie , Isacco Laurie
Published: May 2021

Background

Sedentary lifestyles plague today’s society in terms of physical, psychosocial and cognitive health. Students are particularly at risk because they spend most of their daily time sitting and inactive. The current pedagogical model must be rethought in order to promote students’ health, well-being and therefore their success. The objective of this project was to equip one classroom of the sport science department at a university with various active workstations (standing desks, Swiss balls, cycling desks, pedal- or stepper-board) and to evaluate the feasibility and influence of these types of active workstations on the cognitive and psychological factors of the students, and to collect the feedback of lecturers during this experience.

Methods

Participation in the study was voluntary and students had the opportunity to choose or not to use an active workstation during lectures. A total of 663 students and 14 lecturers completed a survey to evaluate subjective feelings about physical, psycho-cognitive and academic aspects after their first experience with active workstations in the classroom.

Results

The majority of students and lecturers reported positive effects of active workstations in reducing fatigue, distraction, and boredom. The preferred active workstations were the cycling desks and the Swiss balls. Finally, 89.4% of students favoured using active workstations in future lectures if they had the option, as well as 71% of lecturers, demonstrating the acceptance of such active workstations.

Conclusion

The present study brings promising results toward a more general implementation of active workstations in universities. Once a familiarisation period is observed, having such workstations in the classroom could help prevent the deleterious effect of sedentary behaviour and promote a more active daily life for the future.
The association between social ties and depression among Asian and Pacific Islander undocumented young adults
Authors: Ro Annie , Nakphong Michelle Kao , Choi Hye Young , Nguyen Alex , Sudhinaraset May
Published: May 2021

Background

The mental health of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) undocumented young adults has been understudied, despite an increasingly restrictive immigration climate that would ostensibly raise mental health risks. This study examined the role of social ties and depression among API undocumented young adults. We distinguished between two types of social ties, bonding and bridging, and additionally considered the absence of ties (e.g. isolation).

Methods

We used primary data collected among 143 API undocumented young adults. We first identified correlates for each type of social tie and then examined the association for each measure with depression.

Results

Higher levels of bonding and bridging ties were associated with lower odds of a positive depression screen. In contrast, isolation was associated with higher odds of a positive depression screen. There were no significant associations between total social ties and depression.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that both bonding and bridging ties are important factors in the mental health of API undocumented young adults. Factors that facilitate these types of ties, such as DACA, can be effective interventions for improving mental health among this population.
Cross Cultural Workers for women and families from migrant and refugee backgrounds: a mixed-methods study of service providers perceptions
Authors: Rogers Helen J. , Hogan Lily , Coates Dominiek , Homer Caroline S. E. , Henry Amanda
Published: May 2021

Background

Women from migrant and refugee backgrounds who live in high-income countries are at increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, including mental health issues, preterm birth and maternal and infant mortality. There is a need to implement and evaluate models of care to meet their specific needs in order to improve health outcomes, their experiences of care, and overcome barriers to access. In Sydney, Australia, a unique model of care was implemented to support women and families from migrant and refugee backgrounds to access health and community-based services through the continuum of pregnancy to the early parenting period. This model of care is known as the Cross Cultural Workers (CCWs) in Maternity and Child and Family Health Service (the CCW Service). The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of service providers regarding the CCW Service and identify recommendations for improvement.

Methods

A mixed-methods study was conducted consisting of surveys and face to face semi-structured interviews. Service providers were recruited from hospital-based maternity and community-based services. Survey data were analysed descriptively. Interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Sixty-nine service providers completed surveys and 19 were interviewed. The CCW Service was highly regarded by service providers who perceived it to be critical in improving care for women from migrant and refugee backgrounds. The overarching theme from the interviews was the ability of the CCW Service to act as a ‘bridge to health’ through the provision of culturally responsive care. There were three main categories; supporting access to health and community-based services, improving the healthcare experience, and organisational factors, including part-time hours, capacity, heavy workloads and confusion/lack of clarity regarding the CCW role, which affected CCWs’ capacity to optimally support service providers in providing culturally responsive care. These limitations meant CCWs were not able to meet demand, and fully operationalise the model.

Conclusion

Service providers perceived the CCW model to be a culturally responsive model of care tailored to the needs of women and families from migrant and refugee backgrounds, that reduces barriers to access, and has the potential to improve perinatal outcomes, and women's experience and satisfaction with care.
The accumulation of exosome-associated microRNA-1246 and microRNA-150-3p in human red blood cell suspensions
Authors: Kong Yujie , Tian Xue , He Rui , Li Chenyue , Xu Haixia , Tian Li , Liu Zhong
Published: May 2021

Background

Transfusion-related immunomodulation (TRIM) can be caused by exosomes, in which case, microRNAs (miRNAs) are one critical factor impacting exosome behavior. This study aims to investigate and analyze the expression profiles of exosomal miRNA in red blood cell (RBC) suspensions during storage and to identify potential TRIM-related miRNAs as well as their potential functions.

Methods

A total of 25 packs of RBC suspensions were randomly collected. Exosome were extracted by ultracentrifugation and then identified and characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and western blot (WB). Exosomal miRNA profiles were acquired using gene chips in five packs on week 1 and week 5. The expression data were compared from the two time points identifying accumulated miRNAs with statistical significance and their predicted targeting genes were analyzed. Based on the gene chip results, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR) were performed to verify miRNA accumulation in the rest 20 packs sampling on week 1, 3 and 5.

Results

Gene chip analysis revealed that most exosomal miRNAs were enriched as the storage period progressed. Compared to samples from week 1, week 5 samples exhibited a total of 539 differential miRNA expressions, among which, 159 were statistically significant (P < 0.05) and 148 (93.08%) were accumulated. In the bioinformatics functional analysis, significant immunoregulatory annotations related to the thyroid hormone, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), focal adhesion and RAS signaling pathways were identified. The top 17 differential expression miRNAs were validated by qRT-PCR. The results confirmed that all the 17 miRNAs were accumulated with increasing storage time. In particular, miRNA-1246 and miRNA-150-3p were the most enriched strands by more than 150-folds in the 5-week storage period.

Conclusions

As storage progressed, numerous exosomal miRNAs accumulated in the RBC suspensions, which are informatically connected to multiple immuno-signaling pathways. MiRNA-1246 and miRNA-150-3p may be essential mediators impacting the immunoregulation functions of exosomes in RBC suspensions, considering their significant accumulating scales. Further research should therefore focus on the relationship between these miRNAs and TRIM.
Ovarian microcystic stromal tumor with omental metastasis: the first case report and literature review
Authors: Man Xiaxia , Wei Zhentong , Wang Baogang , Li Wanying , Tong Lingling , Guo Liang , Zhang Songling
Published: May 2021

Background

Microcystic stromal tumor (MCST) of the ovary is an extremely rare subtype of sex cord-stromal neoplasm first described by Irving and Young in 2009. Tumors from all previously reported cases (fewer than 40 total) were benign, but one was a case of ovarian MCST that reoccurred.

Case presentation

Herein, we present a unique single case of ovarian MCST with omental metastasis in a 47-year-old Chinese female along with its histologic and immunohistochemical profile and genetic alterations. The tumor exhibited the previously described classic microscopic features and immunoprofiles of MCST. The tumorlet in the omentum presented the same histological structures and characteristically expressed β-catenin protein (localized in the nucleus). Molecular analysis identified a point mutation (c.98C > G) in exon 3 of CTNNB1.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, no such report has been documented for ovarian MCST with omental metastasis. The study may provide new insights into the tumor biology of MCST and provide a better understanding of this rare entity.
scGRNom: a computational pipeline of integrative multi-omics analyses for predicting cell-type disease genes and regulatory networks
Authors: Jin Ting , Rehani Peter , Ying Mufang , Huang Jiawei , Liu Shuang , Roussos Panagiotis , Wang Daifeng
Published: May 2021

Understanding cell-type-specific gene regulatory mechanisms from genetic variants to diseases remains challenging. To address this, we developed a computational pipeline, scGRNom (single-cellGeneRegulatoryNetwork prediction from multi-omics), to predict cell-type disease genes and regulatory networks including transcription factors and regulatory elements. With applications to schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease, we predicted disease genes and regulatory networks for excitatory and inhibitory neurons, microglia, and oligodendrocytes. Further enrichment analyses revealed cross-disease and disease-specific functions and pathways at the cell-type level. Our machine learning analysis also found that cell-type disease genes improved clinical phenotype predictions. scGRNom is a general-purpose tool available athttps://github.com/daifengwanglab/scGRNom.
A phase 2 double-blind placebo-controlled 24-week treatment clinical study of the p38 alpha kinase inhibitor neflamapimod in mild Alzheimer’s disease
Authors:   for the REVERSE-SD Study Investigators, Prins Niels D. , Harrison John E. , Chu Hui-May , Blackburn Kelly , Alam John J. , Scheltens Philip
Published: May 2021

Background

In preclinical studies, p38⍺ kinase is implicated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. In animal models, it mediates impaired synaptic dysfunction in the hippocampus, causing memory deficits, and is involved in amyloid-beta (Aβ) production and tau pathology.

Methods

The REVERSE-SD (synaptic dysfunction) study was a multi-center phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the p38⍺ kinase inhibitor neflamapimod; conducted December 29, 2017, to June 17, 2019; 464 participants screened, and 161 randomized to either 40 mg neflamapimod (78 study participants) or matching placebo (83 study participants), orally twice daily for 24 weeks. Study participants are as follows: CSF AD-biomarker confirmed, Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR)-global score 0.5 or 1.0, CDR-memory score ≥0.5, and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) 20–28. The primary endpoint was the improvement in episodic memory, assessed by combined change in Z-scores of Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised (HVLT-R) Total and Delayed Recall. Secondary endpoints included change in Wechsler Memory Scale-IV (WMS) Immediate and Delayed Recall composites, CDR-SB, MMSE, and CSF biomarkers [total and phosphorylated tau (T-tau and p-tau181), Aβ1-40, Aβ1-42, neurogranin, and neurofilament light chain].

Results

At randomization, the mean age is 72, 50% female, 77% with CDR-global score 0.5, and mean MMSE score 23.8. The incidence of discontinuation for adverse events and serious adverse events (all considered unrelated) was 3% each. No significant differences between treatment groups were observed in the primary or secondary clinical endpoints. Significantly reduced CSF levels with neflamapimod treatment, relative to placebo, were evident for T-tau [difference (95% CI): −18.8 (−35.8, −1.8); P=0.031] and p-tau181 [−2.0 (−3.6, −0.5); P=0.012], with a trend for neurogranin [−21.0 (−43.6, 1.6); P=0.068]. In pre-specified pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) analyses, subjects in the highest quartile of trough plasma neflamapimod levels demonstrated positive trends, compared with placebo, in HLVT-R and WMS.

Conclusions and relevance

A 24-week treatment with 40 mg neflamapimod twice daily did not improve episodic memory in patients with mild AD. However, neflamapimod treatment lowered CSF biomarkers of synaptic dysfunction. Combined with PK–PD findings, the results indicate that a longer duration study of neflamapimod at a higher dose level to assess effects on AD progression is warranted.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03402659. Registered on January 18, 2018
Rab11FIP1 maintains Rab35 at the intercellular bridge to promote actin removal and abscission
Authors: Iannantuono Nicholas V. G. , Emery Gregory
Published: May 2021

Cytokinesis occurs at the end of mitosis/meiosis wherein the cytoplasms of daughter cells are separated. Before abscission, an intercellular bridge containing the remaining furrowing machinery, mitotic spindle and actin cytoskeleton connects the two daughter cells. To remove this actin and allow for the separation of daughter cells, Rab35 vesicles, loaded with the actin oxidizer MICAL1 and the inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase OCRL, are recruited to the midbody in a fine-tuned spatiotemporal manner. However, importantly, the means by which these vesicles are recruited is currently unclear. Here, we demonstrate that Rab11FIP1 is recruited to the midbody after Rab35 to scaffold it at the bridge and maintain Rab35 in this region. In the absence of Rab11FIP1, Rab35 dramatically drops from the midbody, inducing defects, such as cytokinetic delays and binucleation due to actin overaccumulation at the intercellular bridge, which can be rescued with Latrunculin A treatment. Importantly, we show that Rab11FIP1 is critical for Rab35 function in actin removal prior to cytokinesis.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Feedbacks: Financial Markets and Economic Activity
Authors: Brunnermeier Markus , Palia Darius , Sastry Karthik A. , Sims Christopher A.
Published: May 2021

Is credit expansion a sign of desirable financial deepening or the prelude to an inevitable bust? We study this question in modern US data using a structural VAR model of 10 monthly frequency variables, identified by heteroskedasticity. Negative reduced-form responses of output to credit growth are caused by endogenous monetary policy response to credit expansion shocks. On average, credit and output growth remain positively associated. “Financial stress” shocks to credit spreads cause declines in output and credit levels. Neither credit aggregates nor spreads provide much advance warning of the 2008–2009 crisis, but spreads improve within-crisis forecasts. (JEL C51, E23, E31, E43, E44, E52, G01)
The Selection of Talent: Experimental and Structural Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Girum , Caria A. Stefano , Ortiz-Ospina Esteban
Published: May 2021

We study how search frictions in the labor market affect firms’ ability to recruit talented workers. In a field experiment in Ethiopia, we show that an employer can attract more talented applicants by offering a small monetary incentive for making a job application. Estimates from a structural model suggest that the intervention is effective because the cost of making a job application is large, and positively correlated with jobseeker ability. We provide evidence that this positive correlation is driven by dynamic selection. In a second experiment, we show that local recruiters underestimate the positive impacts of application incentives. (JEL J23, J24, J31, J64, O15)
ONLINE LEARNING IN MASTER EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM: STUDENT’S PERCEPTION
Authors: Zakaria Zakaria
Published: May 2021

During the Covid19 epidemic that swept the world, online learning has become an essential requirement in the learning process. This research aims to describe the students of the Educational Administration Masters Study Program to online learning during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research is quantitative descriptive—the research population of the 1st and 2nd-semester students. Data collection techniques used a questionnaire—data analysis with percentage formula. The results showed that student responses to material in good categories, student responses to opportunities for discussion in good categories, student responses to the level of understanding of the material in the categories, student responses to completing assignments insufficient categories.
PhaseGAN: a deep-learning phase-retrieval approach for unpaired datasets
Authors: Zhang Yuhe , Andreas Noack Mike , Vagovic Patrik , Fezzaa Kamel , Garcia-Moreno Francisco , Ritschel Tobias , Villanueva-Perez Pablo
Published: May 2021

Phase retrieval approaches based on deep learning (DL) provide a framework to obtain phase information from an intensity hologram or diffraction pattern in a robust manner and in real-time. However, current DL architectures applied to the phase problem rely on i) paired datasets, i. e., they are only applicable when a satisfactory solution of the phase problem has been found, and ii) the fact that most of them ignore the physics of the imaging process. Here, we present PhaseGAN, a new DL approach based on Generative Adversarial Networks, which allows the use of unpaired datasets and includes the physics of image formation. The performance of our approach is enhanced by including the image formation physics and a novel Fourier loss function, providing phase reconstructions when conventional phase retrieval algorithms fail, such as ultra-fast experiments. Thus, PhaseGAN offers the opportunity to address the phase problem in real-time when no phase reconstructions but good simulations or data from other experiments are available.
Hybrid Brillouin/Rayleigh sensor for multiparameter measurements in optical fibers
Authors: Coscetta A. , Catalano E. , Cerri E. , Cennamo N. , Zeni L. , Minardo A.
Published: May 2021

We present a hybrid Brillouin/Rayleigh sensor for multiparameter sensing in optical fibers. The system makes use of a single laser pulse to excite both Rayleigh and Brillouin backscattering in the same optical fiber. In the detection path, the backscattered signals are separated based on their different wavelengths. The system is capable of determining simultaneously the Brillouin frequency shift (BFS) of the fiber, as well as the frequency contents of any vibration acting on the same fiber as recovered by phase sensitive OTDR (ϕ-OTDR) measurements. The reported experiments show the possibility to perform simultaneous temperature and vibration measurements, as well as to perform dynamic strain measurements combining the information provided by slope-assisted Brillouin scattering measurements, with those provided by amplitude-based ϕ-OTDR measurements.
Postdigital. Interaktiv. Partizipativ. Mit der PIP-Formel in die Post-Corona-Zeit
Authors: Lux Anna M. , Macgilchrist Felicitas
Published: May 2021

Was in der Pandemie deutlich wird, zeichnete sich bereits ab: Das Verständnis von Zusammenarbeit hat sich verändert. Die Mitwirkung in verschiedenen Teams, Netzwerken und Communities ist ebenso selbstverständlich geworden, wie das überregionale und internationale Agieren. Wo Jeder mit Jedem vernetzt ist, stellt nicht die Digitalisierung die Herausforderung dar, sondern die Gestaltung der Prozesse im Miteinander. Das Zusammenspiel von Mensch, Technik und Raum im postdigitalen Zeitalter erfordert Methoden und Arbeitsweisen, die Kreativität, Meinungsvielfalt und Beteiligung fördern. Abgeleitet aus einem Praxisbeispiel möchten wir zur Gestaltung zeitgemäßer Formate der Zusammenarbeit eine Basis vorschlagen: die Anwendung der PIP-Formel im Zusammenspiel mit den Liberating Structures.
Prevalence of Leishmania infection in three communities of Oti Region, Ghana
Authors: Akuffo Richard , Wilson Michael , Sarfo Bismark , Attram Naiki , Mosore Mba-Tihssommah , Yeboah Clara , Cruz Israel , Ruiz-Postigo Jose-Antonio , Boakye Daniel , Moreno Javier , Anto Francis
Published: May 2021

Background

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania and is transmitted by various species of female phlebotomine sand flies. The first report of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Ghana refer to a cluster of cases in 1999–2003 in the Ho municipality of the Volta Region. We conducted an epidemiological assessment in the Oti Region, encouraged by recent reports of potential cases of CL.

Methodology/Principal findings

Using a cross-sectional study design, the exposure to Leishmania was investigated in three communities of the Oti Region based on the leishmanin skin test (LST). LST results for 3,071 participants comprising 1091, 848, and 1132 persons from the communities of Ashiabre, Keri, and Sibi Hilltop, indicated an overall prevalence of exposure to Leishmania infection of 41.8% and individual community prevalence of 39.4%, 55.1%, and 34.2% respectively. Being male [AOR = 1.27; CI: 1.09, 1.49], and living in Keri [AOR = 1.83; CI: 1.43, 2.34] were associated with an increase in the odds of exposure to Leishmania. Being 5–10 years old [AOR = 1.48; CI: 1.06, 2.05], 11–17 years old [AOR = 2.03; CI: 1.45, 2.85], 18–40 years old [AORR = 2.83; CI: 1.81, 4.43] and 41–65 years old [AOR = 5.08; CI: 2.98, 8.68] were also significantly associated with increased odds of being exposed to Leishmania.

Conclusions/Significance

This study demonstrated exposure to Leishmania in the study communities and also identified associated factors. Future efforts aimed at reducing exposure to Leishmania infection in the study area should take the associated factors into consideration.