bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of Lung Tumor Model for Drug Screening Based on 3D Bio-Printing Technology
Authors: Yang Yadong , Yang Geng , Liu Xingzhu , Xu Yimeng , Zhao Siyu , Zhang Wenyuan , Xu Mengjiao
Published: July 2021

As is known to all, the biological characteristics of two-dimensional (2D) cultured cells are quite different from those in vivo, so the 2D screening model can no longer meet people’s needs. With the development of tissue engineering, people are committed to developing 3D tissue
models that can better reflect the biology in vivo, and tend to be mass and miniaturized. In this study, three-dimensional (3D) bio-printing was used to develop an appropriate 3D model for screening sensitive anti-lung cancer drugs in vitro. A549 lung cancer cells were mixed with 8% sodium
alginate and 5% gelatin as bio-printing ink to fabricate a cell-laden hydrogel grid scaffold structure. The sensitivity of the printed 3D model to drugs was evaluated with eight anti-tumor traditional Chinese medicines. A fluorescent live/dead staining was carried out at different time to
assess the cell survival rate in the 3D scaffolds. MTT assay was used to determine the inhibitory rate of eight antitumor traditional Chinese medicines on A549 cell proliferation in 3D-printed lung tumor models and conventional 2D culture models.
Downregulation of microRNA-3646 Through Direct Targeting of F-Box Protein 4 on Interleukin-17-Induced Lung Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion
Authors: Lin Ling , Zhao Hongjie , Zhai Liqiang , Xu Baoxin , Xiao Ling , Chen Zhengang
Published: July 2021

IL-17 participates in the initiation and growth of malignant cancers, including lung cancer. The aberrant expression of miRNA is also related to tumor growth and metastasis. Studies have confirmed that high expression of miRNA-3646 can boost breast cancer cell invasion and migration,
suggesting that miRNA-3646 is a tumor-promoting factor. However, the role of miRNA-3646 in the migration and invasion of IL-17-induced lung cancer cells is unclear. In this study, qRT-PCR was used to determine the level of miRNA-3646. We found that in lung cancer cells, miRNA-3646 levels exceeded
those of normal bronchial epithelial 16HBE cells (P < 0.05). The level of miRNA-3646 in NCI-H1299 cells was higher than that in A549, NCI-H446, and SK-MES-1 cells (P < 0.05). After IL-17 treatment, the number of proliferating and migrating lung carcinoma NCI-H1299 cells
increased, transport of vimentin increased, and transport of E-cadherin decreased (P < 0.05). After IL-17 treatment, the number of proliferating and migrating lung carcinoma NCI-H1299 cells transfected with miRNA-3646 inhibitor decreased, transport of vimentin decreased, and transport
of E-cadherin increased (P < 0.05). FBXO4 siRNA reversed the inhibition of miRNA-3646 on the proliferation and migration of IL-17-induced lung carcinoma NCI-H1299 cells and the transport of E-cadherin and vimentin. Thus, downregulation of miRNA-3646 inhibited IL-17-induced lung carcinoma
cell migration and proliferation by directly targeting FBXO4.
The Related Study on the Pathogenesis of Gastrointestinal Diseases in Gastrointestinal Flora and the Risk of Gastric Ulcer Carcinogenesis
Authors: Zhou Xiaomin , Ding Songze , Hu Ruobing
Published: July 2021

Gastrointestinal diseases are common diseases of many kinds. The pathogenesis of gastrointestinal disease has not been fully understood. In this study with gastric mucosa specimen, among the three groups of chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer, and duodenal ulcer, there were differences ofHelicobacter pylori (H. pylori), Lactobacillus, Prevotella, Clostridium, B. fragilis,andEnterobacteriaceae.There was no significant difference inLactobacillusamong chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, and duodenal ulcers with fecal specimens, but there was a significant difference between these three groups and the gastric cancer group. Correlation analysis showed that six kinds of flora had a negative correlation withH. pylori,procalcitonin (PCT), tumor necrosis factorα(TNF-α), cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4+), cluster of differentiation 8 (CD8+), immunoglobulin G (IgG), and immunoglobulin M (IgM) were different in different gastrointestinal diseases, and PCT, TNF-αand CD8+were positively correlated withH. pyloriand negatively correlated with CD4+, IgM and IgG. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, recurrent gastric ulcer times, atrophic gastritis, andH. pyloriwere independent risk factors of gastric ulcer canceration. Therefore, we believe that gastrointestinal flora, especiallyH. pylori,plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal diseases, andH. pyloriis an essential risk factor for gastric ulcer carcinogenesis.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Trauma Encounters
Authors: Sheets Nicholas W. , Fawibe Oluwatosin S. , Mahmoud Ahmed , Chawla-Kondal Bhani , Ayutyanont Napatkamon , Plurad David S.
Published: July 2021

Objectives

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic has affected the health care system significantly. We compare 2019 to 2020 to evaluate how trauma encounters has changed during the pandemic.

Methods

Retrospective analysis using a large US health care system to compare trauma demographics, volumes, mechanisms of injury, and outcomes. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate for significant differences comparing 2019 to 2020.

Results

Data was collected from 88 hospitals across 18 states. 169 892 patients were included in the study. There were 6.3% fewer trauma patient encounters in 2020 compared to 2019. Mechanism of injury was significantly different between 2019 and 2020 with less blunt injuries (89.64% vs. 88.39%, P < .001), more burn injuries (1.84% vs. 2.00%, P = .021), and more penetrating injuries (8.58% vs. 9.75%, P < .001). Compared to 2019, patients in 2020 had higher mortality (2.62% vs. 2.88%, P < .001), and longer hospital LOS (3.92 ± 6.90 vs. 4.06 ± 6.56, P < .001).

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected trauma patient demographics, LOS, mechanism of injury, and mortality.
Parental Child-Invested Contingent Self-Esteem as a Source of Acculturation-Related Parent–Child Conflicts Among Latino Families
Authors: Glatz Terese , Özdemir Sevgi Bayram , Boersma Katja
Published: July 2021

Most parents want their children to succeed well. For some parents, however, children’s successes are strongly related to beliefs about their own self-worth; a concept known as parental child-invested contingent self-esteem, which has shown links to negative parenting practices (e.g., psychological control). Less is known about associations with aspects of the parent–child relationship that are particularly relevant among families with immigrant backgrounds. We examine the associations with acculturation-related conflicts in a sample of 180 Latino parents of children in 6th to 12th grade. Results showed that higher levels of parental child-invested contingent self-esteem was significantly linked to higher levels of acculturation conflicts, but this link was especially strong if the parent reported that their child was unresponsive to their corrections. When parents base their self-worth on their child’s successes and the child acts in ways that are not in line with parents’ expectations, parents report more acculturation-related conflicts.
Vertical tail sizing of propeller-driven aircraft considering the asymmetric blade effect
Authors: Rostami Mohsen , Chung Joon , Neufeld Daniel
Published: July 2021

An engineering approach is presented to analyse the asymmetric blade thrust effect with the help of analytical and semi-empirical methods. It is shown that the contribution of the asymmetric blade thrust effect in the lateral-directional stability of multi-engine propeller-driven aircraft is significant particularly in critical flight conditions with one engine out of service. Also, in some cases where the engines are rotating in one direction, the asymmetric blade effect has substantial effects on the handling qualities of the aircraft even in normal flight conditions. Overall, due to the significant contribution of this phenomenon in the lateral-directional stability of propeller-driven airplanes, it is important to consider it in the design of the vertical stabilizer and rudder. The resulting analytical method has been used to determine the vertical tail incident angle and desired rudder deflection in accordance with the most critical flight condition for two different cases and validated to ensure the accuracy of the result. In this work, the aerodynamic coefficients as well as the stability and control derivatives have been predicted using analytical and semi-empirical methods validated for light aircraft.
Sliding mode–based simultaneous control of impact angle and impact time
Authors: Majumder Kakoli , Kumar Shashi Ranjan
Published: July 2021

In this article, a sliding mode control–based nonlinear guidance scheme for controlling both impact angle and impact time simultaneously is proposed. The problem of impact angle control is first transformed to that of controlling line-of-sight angle and its rate, while the requirement of impact time is achieved by tracking the desired time-to-go. The chosen time-to-go estimate accounts for the curvature required to meet the impact angle requirements toward the target interception. In order to satisfy both of these terminal constraints, the sliding surface is defined as a combination of impact time error and the variable pertaining to the errors in line-of-sight angle and its rate, with appropriate gains assigned to them. The interceptor first performs necessary maneuvers to meet the impact time requirements and then steers its course to achieve the target interception at a desired impact angle. The guidance law is initially derived using nonlinear engagement kinematics against stationary targets and then extended to cater to constant velocity targets using the concept of predicted interception point. Numerical simulations are performed to validate the efficacy of the proposed guidance scheme for various initial engagement geometries. The performance of the proposed guidance scheme is also compared with those of the existing guidance laws and shown to be superior.
Quercetin inhibited the proliferation and invasion of hepatoblastoma cells through facilitating SIRT6-medicated FZD4 silence
Authors: Liu T , Li Z , Tian F
Published: July 2021

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is a malignant liver tumor that occurs during childhood. The histone deacetylase SIRT6 functions as a tumor suppressor in diverse cancers. Quercetin, as activators and antioxidants of sirtuins, exhibits remarkable anticancer activity in many tumors. However, whether quercetin ameliorates HB is still unclear. In our study, we found that SIRT6 was downregulated in HB tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of SIRT6 observably suppressed cell proliferation and invasion, promoted cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, SIRT6 suppressed frizzled 4 (FZD4) transcription by deacetylating histone H3K9. Upregulation of SIRT6 reduced the protein levels of FZD4 and H3K9ac. Additionally, quercetin treatment could enhance the expression of SIRT6, repress FZD4 level, cell viability and invasion, and promote apoptosis. Overexpression of FZD4 signally reversed quercetin-treated the promotion effect on cell apoptosis, and the inhibition effects on FZD4 expression, cell viability, invasion and Wnt/β-catenin pathway related proteins. In addition, LiCl, an agonist of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, could recover the inhibition effects of quercetin on Wnt/β-catenin pathway related proteins, cell viability and invasion, and promotion effect on cell apoptosis. In vivo mouse xenograft tumor growth assay revealed that quercetin markedly suppressed tumor growth. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that the molecular mechanism of quercetin suppressing HB cell proliferation and invasion, promoting apoptosis was to promote the deacetylation of SIRT6 on FZD4 and inhibit the activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Principles of pediatric lupus nephritis in a prospective contemporary multi-center cohort
Authors: Vazzana Kathleen M , Daga Ankana , Goilav Beatrice , Ogbu Ekemini A , Okamura Daryl M , Park Catherine , Sadun Rebecca E , Smitherman Emily A , Stotter Brian R , Dasgupta Abhijit , Knight Andrea M , Hersh Aimee O , Wenderfer Scott E , Lewandowski Laura B ,   for the CARRA Registry investigators
Published: July 2021

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a life-threatening manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is more common in children than adults. The epidemiology and management of childhood-onset SLE (cSLE) have changed over time, prompting the need to reassess expected outcomes. The purpose of this study is to use the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) prospective registry to validate historical principles of LN in a contemporary, real-world cohort. After an extensive literature review, six principles of LN in cSLE were identified. The CARRA registry was queried to evaluate these principles in determining the rate of LN in cSLE, median time from cSLE diagnosis to LN, short-term renal outcomes, and frequency of rituximab as an induction therapy. Of the 677 cSLE patients in the CARRA registry, 32% had documented LN. Decline in kidney function was more common in Black cSLE patients than non-Black patients ( p = 0.04). Black race was associated with worse short-term renal outcomes. In short-term follow up, most children with LN had unchanged or improved kidney function, and end stage kidney disease (ESKD) was rare. Ongoing follow-up of cSLE patients in the CARRA registry will be necessary to evaluate long-term outcomes to inform risk, management, and prognosis of LN in cSLE.
Understanding the career decision making of university students enrolled in STEM disciplines
Authors: Bennett Dawn , Knight Elizabeth , Bawa Sherry , Dockery Alfred M
Published: July 2021

This study investigated why university students choose to major in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine/health (STEM(M)) disciplines, and how their study and career-related confidence compares with that of their peers. The study engaged 12,576 students enrolled at Australian universities. The findings suggest that STEM(M) students’ career decision making is guided by their interest in the subject and their intentions to help people. Within the STEM(M) cohort, students in medicine and health were more confident in their career decision making than either their STEM or non-STEM(M) peers. Of interest, they were less aware of alternative career pathways and less prepared to reorient their careers should this be necessary. Female students reported greater confidence than male students in their career decision making, career identity, and career commitment. Implications include the need for career narratives beyond the STEM industries and for career development initiatives that are mindful of disciplinary and gendered differences.
On weak solutions of the boundary value problem within linear dilatational strain gradient elasticity for polyhedral Lipschitz domains
Authors: Eremeyev Victor A. , dell’Isola Francesco
Published: July 2021

We provide the proof of an existence and uniqueness theorem for weak solutions of the equilibrium problem in linear dilatational strain gradient elasticity for bodies occupying, in the reference configuration, Lipschitz domains with edges. The considered elastic model belongs to the class of so-called incomplete strain gradient continua whose potential energy density depends quadratically on linear strains and on the gradient of dilatation only. Such a model has many applications, e.g., to describe phenomena of interest in poroelasticity or in some situations where media with scalar microstructure are necessary. We present an extension of the previous results by Eremeyev et al. (2020 Z angew Math Phys 71(6): 1–16) to the case of domains with edges and when external line forces are applied. Let us note that the interest paid to Lipschitz polyhedra-type domains is at least twofold. First, it is known that geometrical singularity of the boundary may essentially influence singularity of solutions. On the other hand, the analysis of weak solutions in polyhedral domains is of great significance for design of optimal computations using a finite-element method and for the analysis of convergence of numerical solutions.
Assessing the Structural Characteristics of the Japanese Version of the Adult Social Care Outcomes Toolkit for Carers
Authors: Nakamura-Thomas Hiromi , Yamaguchi Mai , Yamaguchi Ikushi , Rand Stacey
Published: July 2021

Due to the absence of standardized Quality of Life (QoL) measures for informal family caregivers of recipients of long-term care (LTC) in Japan, translation and cross-cultural adapted LTC outcome measures are needed for research and evaluation. In this study, we assessed the validity and reliability of the factor structure and response system of the translated and cross-culturally adapted Japanese version of the Adult Social Care Outcomes Toolkit for Carer (J-ASCOT-Carer). Participants were 872 informal family caregivers of adults who lived at home and required LTC services. Almost half (46%) of the participants were between 50 and 59 years old, 85% were employed, and 69% resided with their care recipients. We used the combined factor analysis and item response theory approach. Model fit indices included factor loading, path coefficients, root mean square error of approximation, standardized root mean square residual, and comparative fit index. This study confirmed the one factor structure that was identified in the original English version of the ASCOT-Carer. The values for the model fit indices indicated a good fit. Moreover, the validity and reliability of the response system were confirmed. Therefore, the J-ASCOT-Carer is a reliable assessment instrument to measure QoL of Japanese caregivers of adults requiring LTC.
School Readiness for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Critical Gaps and Call for Research
Authors: Izuno-Garcia Amy K. , Jellinek Emily R. , Rosenbrock Georgina J. , Keller-Margulis Milena A. , Mire Sarah S.
Published: July 2021

Students who enter kindergarten without school readiness skills are more likely to demonstrate academic, behavioral, and social struggles during school. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are particularly at risk for underdeveloped school readiness skills, which can undermine academic achievement and result in poor long-term outcomes. The purpose of this article is to synthesize literature that aligns with a widely used Office of Head Start’s model of school readiness, applied to children with ASD, and to present critical gaps in research and opportunities for practice that may improve school readiness in this population. Research in this area may ultimately help to enhance service delivery that improves preparation for school and, therefore, later academic and long-term life outcomes for students with ASD.
Evaluation of filtration effectiveness of various types of facemasks following with different sterilization methods
Authors: Kumar Amit , Bhattacharjee Basundhara , Sangeetha DN , Subramanian V , Venkatraman B
Published: July 2021

Due to the ongoing pandemic, various types of facemasks such as certified N-95, non-woven fiber and fabric/textile masks are being used as an essential protective measure to reduce the risk of spread of the SARS-Cov-2 virus. The aerosols size-dependent filtration efficiency and breathing resistance of these masks were tested before and after sterilization by five different methods for two flow rates (20 and 90 L/min) conditions corresponding to regular breathing rate and moderate/strenuous exertion, in the particle size range 0.3–10 µm. Sterilization techniques used here are autoclaving (30 and 60 minutes), dry air oven heating (30 and 60 minutes), ionizing irradiation (15 and 25 kGy), hot water washing with and without detergent and immersing in a 10% concentration of liquid hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes. Further, the filtration efficiency of each type of masks is also studied with laboratory generated two-order higher aerosol concertation. The certified mask has the most outstanding filtering efficiency among all the other type of facemasks. The ionizing radiation causes a significant reduction in filtration efficacy, so that it is not recommended for sterilization purpose. The best method to sterilize certified N-95 masks without affecting their performance is by using dry air heating with temperature ranging from 70–80 °C. The performance of the cloth and surgical masks is found to be comparable for both flow conditions. As an affordable sterilization method, hot water washing is recommended, which does not deteriorate the fabric masks efficiency and can be used by the common people. The recommended masks for the general people are textile/fabric masks which serves fit for the purpose than non-woven masks because it can help to reduce non-biodegradable waste (facemask) and prevent respiratory droplet transmission. The non-woven mask can be sterilized with dry heat, hot water wash and autoclave.
Leading in lockdown: Community, communication and compassion in response to the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: Longmuir Fiona
Published: July 2021

This paper examines the ways that Australian school leaders made sense of and responded to situations of crisis and uncertainty that resulted from the COVID-19 global pandemic. The paper draws on a qualitative study of the subjective experiences of eight school leaders and uses a sensemaking theoretical approach applied to crisis leadership to contribute to understanding leadership in unprecedented situations. Data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews undertaken in the middle of 2020. At that time participants were working through significant changes resulting from community lockdowns that required their schools to move to remote provision of education. The findings revealed these school leaders engaged in rapid processes of sensemaking and change implementation. They assessed and managed risks, relationships and resourcing in environments where usual processes of change leadership were not available to them. They reported that their attention was predominantly directed to the well-being of their communities. They noted an increase in the community leadership aspect of their role and the requirement of effective, timely and honest communication. They also demonstrated prospective sensemaking orientations in their capacity to reconfigure for a positive and productive future that could emerge from these disruptive experiences.
The nature and extent of healthcare provision for people with intellectual disabilities in Ghana: A qualitative study
Authors: Odongo Douglas Attoh , Forkuor John Boulard , Ofori-Dua Kwadwo , Dapaah Jonathan Mensah , Dwumah Peter
Published: July 2021

Ghana has designated special schools with the mandate of training and equipping persons with intellectual disabilities with social functioning and vocational skills needed to promote their social inclusion. This study investigates the nature and extent of healthcare provision for persons with intellectual disabilities in their respective special schools. This research adopted a qualitative, but participatory approach to collect data from respective stakeholders. The findings reveal that some of these special schools do not have professional health workers, and most healthcare providers have challenges diagnosing and prescribing medication for this population due to the health workers’ limited understanding of their healthcare needs, coupled with communication barriers. The researchers have suggested setting up of a special health department with personnel who have received training on intellectual disabilities. This department must undertake training for the housemothers in special schools, parents in the communities, and teachers in special schools.
Trends in U.S. Insulin Use and Glucose Monitoring for People with Diabetes: 2009-2018
Authors: Perez-Nieves Magaly , Juneja Rattan , Fan Ludi , Meadows Eric , Lage Maureen J , Eby Elizabeth L
Published: July 2021

Background:

The delivery and administration of insulin has undergone many changes over the years. This research examines U.S. trends in insulin use among people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the U.S. from 2009 to 2018.

Methods:

The IBM® MarketScan® Commercial and Medicare databases were used to identify trends in insulin use over 10 years. The study included people with T1D or T2D who filled a prescription for insulin in any calendar year from 2009 to 2018. The analyses examined insulin regimen and delivery and the use of glucose monitoring systems. Generalized estimating equations were used to test whether trends were statistically significant.

Results:

Individuals with T1D were most commonly prescribed a basal and bolus insulin regimen or short/rapid insulin only, while for people with T2D the use of basal-only insulin increased significantly over the study period. In both groups there was a significant decline in the use of premix insulin from 2009 to 2018. Insulin pump use increased for individuals with T1D, while disposable pen use increased for people in both cohorts. In both cohorts, there was a statistically significant increase in the use of continuous glucose monitoring, although this increase was more pronounced and occurred earlier among individuals with T1D.

Conclusions:

Results indicate significant changes in insulin regimens and delivery and glucose monitoring from 2009 to 2018. These findings suggest that insulin prescribing continues to change in response to the development of new therapeutics, advances in insulin delivery technology, and glucose monitoring systems.
Severe 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia may cause lung bullae and bronchiectasis: A case report and concise literature review
Authors: Wang Fengyun , Fang Bin , Zhou LiXin , Chen Guoqiang
Published: July 2021

Most of the critically ill novel coronavirus 2019 pneumonia (NCP) patients progress promptly, and soon match the ARDS diagnostic criteria. When mechanical ventilation and prone position cannot reverse the fatal hypoxia—extra-corporeal-membrane-oxygenation (ECMO) will be applied as a salvage treatment if available. Here, we report a novel coronavirus 2019 pneumonia (NCP) patient, a male, 67 years old, who was treated with ECMO for 30 days. In the midst, bronchoscopy was utilized to comprehend the airway lesions and clear secretions. And computed tomography (CT) scans were performed before and after the treatment of ECMO. In the recovering phase of his disease, the patient experienced multiple times pneumothorax on both sides. Some newly developed lung bullae in the subpleural area and modest bronchiectasis were found by the CT scan. The newly developed lung bullae was the probable cause of pneumothorax. Notably, in the whole process of his illness, the serum IL-6 only had a slight elevation in the early period, there is no typical cytokine storm as that was seen in non-COVID-19 ARDS. After 3-months meticulous treatment, the patient made a full recovery and now is discharged from our hospital. Though COVID-19 may not cause typical cytokine storm, the inflammation in lung may inflict severe damage to lung. Severe NCP may cause lung bullae and bronchiectasis, making the patients hard to be weaned from mechanical ventilation or ECMO.
Unique Glutelin Expression Patterns and Seed Endosperm Structure Facilitate Glutelin Accumulation in Polyploid Rice Seed
Authors: Gan Lu , Huang Baosheng , Song Zhaojian , Zhang Yachun , Zhang Yujie , Chen Si , Tong Liqi , Wei Zhisong , Yu Lingxiang , Luo Xiangbo , Zhang Xianhua , Cai Detian , He Yuchi
Published: July 2021

Background

Rice is not only an essential food but also a source of high quality protein. Polyploidy is an evolutionary trajectory in plants, and enhancing glutelin by polyploidization is an attractive strategy for improving the nutritional value of rice seeds and presents a great potential for enhancing the commercial value of rice. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying glutelin synthesis and accumulation in tetraploid rice is of great significance.

Results

To enhance the nutritional value of rice, we developed tetraploid rice and evaluated the contents of various nutrient elements in mature seeds. The results revealed a significant increase in protein contents, including the total seed storage proteins, glutelins, and amino acids in tetraploid rice when compared with those in diploid rice. Tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomic analyses of seeds revealed that glutelins regulated by several glutelin genes in 9311-4x were significantly up-regulated (≥1.5-fold), which was further verified by immunoblot analyses. In addition, temporal expression patterns of various glutelin subunits in different rice lines were investigated. The results revealed significant differences in the expression patterns between diploid and tetraploid rice seeds. Cytohistological analyses results revealed that the thickness of aleurone cell layers increased significantly by 32% in tetraploid rice, the structures of protein storage vacuoles (PSVs) in sub-aleurone cells were more diverse and abundant than those of diploid rice. Temporal expression and proteomic analyses results revealed that protein disulfide isomerase-like 1–1 expression levels were higher in tetraploid rice than in diploid rice, and that the gene responded to oxidative folding with increased levels of proglutelin and appropriate distribution of seed glutelins in tetraploid rice.

Conclusion

The results of the present study revealed that polyploidization increased glutelin content by influencing glutelin biosynthesis, transport, and deposition, while variations in glutelin accumulation between tetraploid and diploid rice were largely manifested in the initial time, duration, and relative levels of various glutelin gene expressions during seed filling stages. These findings provide novel insights into improving the protein quality and nutritional value of rice seeds by polyploid breeding.
Isoamyl 2-cyanoacrylate interposition in the urethro-cutaneous fistula repair: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tawfeek A. M. , Mohareb Andrew Makeen , Higazy Ahmed , Farouk Ahmed , Elsaeed Karim Omar , Tawfick Ahmed , Radwan Ahmed
Published: July 2021

Background

We aim to evaluate isoamyl 2-cyanoacrylate as an intervening layer in the surgical repair of the urethra-cutaneous fistula (UCF) after hypospadias in comparison with the classic surgical repair technique.

Methods

Between January 2017 and July 2018, 40 patients with UCF were randomized into two equal groups. Group I represented a multilayered closure with dartos fascia flap while using cyanoacrylate glue as an interposition layer, while group II represented the same procedure without applying the glue. We followed up our patients for 6 months following the procedure to evaluate a successful closure.

Results

Forty patients were available for evaluation at the end of our study. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding their demographic data. The mean fistula size was 3.25 ± 0.64 and 3.15 ± 0.75 mm in group I and II, respectively, with a statistically significant difference. Successful UCF closure was achieved in 80% of cases in group I (16/20) and 70% of group II (14/20) with no statistically significant difference. There was no statistically significant difference between both groups as regards the occurrence of mild complications in the postoperative period, which was 10% in both groups.

Conclusion

The application of cyanoacrylate during UCF repair was feasible and safe. The successful repair of UCF was found to be higher with cyanoacrylate. However, we could not demonstrate a statistically significant difference between the two groups.

Trial registration number The trial is registered at clinicaltrial.gov with trial registration number: NCT04876976 (retrospective registration)
Chick fetal organ spheroids as a model to study development and disease
Authors: Dakhel Soran , Davies Wayne I. L. , Joseph Justin V. , Tomar Tushar , Remeseiro Silvia , Gunhaga Lena
Published: July 2021

Background

Organ culture models have been used over the past few decades to study development and disease. The in vitro three-dimensional (3D) culture system of organoids is well known, however, these 3D systems are both costly and difficult to culture and maintain. As such, less expensive, faster and less complex methods to maintain 3D cell culture models would complement the use of organoids. Chick embryos have been used as a model to study human biology for centuries, with many fundamental discoveries as a result. These include cell type induction, cell competence, plasticity and contact inhibition, which indicates the relevance of using chick embryos when studying developmental biology and disease mechanisms.

Results

Here, we present an updated protocol that enables time efficient, cost effective and long-term expansion of fetal organ spheroids (FOSs) from chick embryos. Utilizing this protocol, we generated FOSs in an anchorage-independent growth pattern from seven different organs, including brain, lung, heart, liver, stomach, intestine and epidermis. These three-dimensional (3D) structures recapitulate many cellular and structural aspects of their in vivo counterpart organs and serve as a useful developmental model. In addition, we show a functional application of FOSs to analyze cell-cell interaction and cell invasion patterns as observed in cancer.

Conclusion

The establishment of a broad ranging and highly effective method to generate FOSs from different organs was successful in terms of the formation of healthy, proliferating 3D organ spheroids that exhibited organ-like characteristics. Potential applications of chick FOSs are their use in studies of cell-to-cell contact, cell fusion and tumor invasion under defined conditions. Future studies will reveal whether chick FOSs also can be applicable in scientific areas such as viral infections, drug screening, cancer diagnostics and/or tissue engineering.
Comparison of two commercial recirculated aquacultural systems and their microbial potential in plant disease suppression
Authors: Khalil Sammar , Panda Preeti , Ghadamgahi Farideh , Rosberg AnnaKarin , Vetukuri Ramesh R
Published: July 2021

Background

Aquaponics are food production systems advocated for food security and health. Their sustainability from a nutritional and plant health perspective is, however, a significant challenge. Recirculated aquaculture systems (RAS) form a major part of aquaponic systems, but knowledge about their microbial potential to benefit plant growth and plant health is limited. The current study tested if the diversity and function of microbial communities in two commercial RAS were specific to the fish species used (Tilapia or Clarias) and sampling site (fish tanks and wastewaters), and whether they confer benefits to plants and have in vitro antagonistic potential towards plant pathogens.

Results

Microbial diversity and composition was found to be dependent on fish species and sample site. The Tilapia RAS hosted higher bacterial diversity than the Clarias RAS; but the later hosted higher fungal diversity. Both Tilapia and Clarias RAS hosted bacterial and fungal communities that promoted plant growth, inhibited plant pathogens and encouraged biodegradation. The production of extracellular enzymes, related to nutrient availability and pathogen control, by bacterial strains isolated from the Tilapia and Clarias systems, makes them a promising tool in aquaponics and in their system design.

Conclusions

This study explored the microbial diversity and potential of the commercial RAS with either Tilapia or Clarias as a tool to benefit the aquaponic system with respect to plant growth promotion and control of plant diseases.
Epidemiology of SARS-CoV2 in Qatar’s primary care population aged 10 years and above
Authors: Syed Mohamed Ahmed , Al Nuaimi Ahmed Sameer , A/Qotba Hamda Abdulla , Nasrallah Gheyath K. , Althani Asmaa A. , Yassine Hadi M. , Zainel Abduljaleel Abdullatif , Khudadad Hanan , Marji Tamara , Veettil Shajitha Thekke , Al-Jighefee Hadeel T. , Younes Salma , Shurrab Farah , Al-Sadeq Duaa W. , AlFehaidi Al Anoud Saleh , Yfakhroo Ameena Ibrahim , AlMesaifri Meshal Abdulla , Al Mujalli Hanan , Al Abdulla Samya Ahmad , Al Kuwari Mohamed Ghaith , Azad Faruk Mohammed , Al Malki Badria Ali Mohamed , Abdulmalik Mariam Ali
Published: July 2021

Background

There is an urgent need to elucidate the epidemiology of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) and characterize its potential impact. Investing in characterising the SARS-CoV2 will help plan and improve the response to the pandemic. Furthermore, it will help identify the most efficient ways of managing the pandemic, avoiding public health policies and interventions that may be unduly restrictive of normal activity or unnecessarily costly. This paper describes the design and reports findings of a population based epidemiological study undertaken to characterise SARS-CoV2 in Qatar using limited resources in a timely manner.

Methods

Asymptomatic individuals ≥10 years registered with Qatar’s publicly funded primary health provider were eligible. A stratified random sampling technique was utilized to identify the study sample. Participants were invited to an appointment where they completed a questionnaire and provided samples for polymerase chain reaction and Immunoglobulin M and G immunoassay tests. Data collected were analyzed to calculate point and period prevalence by sociodemographic, lifestyle and clinical characteristics.

Results

Of 18,918 individuals invited for the study, 2084 participated (response rate 10.8%). The overall point prevalence and period prevalence were estimated to be 1.6% (95% CI 1.1–2.2) and 14.6% (95% CI 13.1–16.2) respectively. Period prevalence of SARS-CoV2 infection was not considerably different across age groups (9.7–19.8%). It was higher in males compared to females (16.2 and 12.7% respectively). A significant variation was observed by nationality (7.1 to 22.2%) and municipalities (6.9–35.3%).

Conclusions

The study provides an example of a methodologically robust approach that can be undertaken in a timely manner with limited resources. It reports much-needed epidemiological data about the spread of SARS-CoV2. Given the low prevalence rates, majority of the population in Qatar remains susceptible. Enhanced surveillance must continue to be in place, particularly due to the large number of asymptomatic cases observed. Robust contact tracing and social distancing measures are key to prevent future outbreaks.
Immune cell profiling and antibody responses in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Rezaei Mitra , Mahmoudi Shima , Mortaz Esmaeil , Marjani Majid
Published: July 2021

Background

Although there are a growing number of studies on evaluating lymphocyte subset counts as prognostic factors for COVID-19 disease severity, the lymphocyte subsets’ analyses of both IgM and IgG responders and non-responders during the periods after onset of symptoms, have not been conducted yet. So, this study aimed to evaluate immune cell profiling of COVID-19 patients with and without antibody responses.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, the levels of peripheral lymphocyte subsets were measured using flow cytometry in 53 patients with positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR, for whom antibody testing of COVID-19 was performed.

Results

The white blood cell, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts consistently decreased in the IgM and IgG non-responder group, while the differences in the median value between the two study groups were found to be statistically significant only in terms of neutrophil counts (P = 0.024 for IgM response and p-value = 0.046 for IgG response, respectively). Moreover, the level of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was observed to be significantly lower in the IgM or IgG non-responder group compared to the IgM or IgG responder group (3.6 ± 3.1 vs. 6.3 ± 4.2; p-value = 0.021). The patients with IgM antibody response had a significantly lower CD20+ lymphocytes (11% versus 15% in the groups without IgM antibody response, p-value = 0.031), The percentages of NK cells and CD4+ T cells significantly increased in the patients with IgG antibody response compared to those without IgG antibody response (13% versus 10%, p-value = 0.028, and 41.5% versus 34%; p-value = 0.03, respectively). Moreover, the patients who produced IgM or IgG antibody had significantly higher percentages of total T lymphocytes (64% versus 54%; p-value = 0.017), CD4+ T cells (41% versus 34%; p-value = 0.038), and NK cells (13% versus 9%, p-value = 0.023) compared to the group with no serological response. No significant difference was observed in the percentage of other lymphocyte subsets, including CD8+ T cells, Treg cells, and CD19+ B cells.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the total T cells, CD4+ T cells, and NK cells percentages are linked to serological response. Moreover, our findings suggested that neutrophil absolute counts and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio may be valuable predictors of IgM or IgG antibody response.
Comparison of saliva with healthcare workers- and patient-collected swabs in the diagnosis of COVID-19 in a large cohort
Authors: Sasikala Mitnala , Sadhana Yelamanchili , Vijayasarathy Ketavarapu , Gupta Anand , Daram Sarala Kumari , Podduturi Naveen Chander Reddy , Reddy Duvvur Nageshwar
Published: July 2021

Background

A considerable amount of evidence demonstrates the potential of saliva in the diagnosis of COVID-19. Our aim was to determine the sensitivity of saliva versus swabs collected by healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients themselves to assess whether saliva detection can be offered as a cost-effective, risk-free method of SARS-CoV-2 detection.

Methods

This study was conducted in a hospital involving outpatients and hospitalized patients. A total of 3018 outpatients were tested. Of these, 200 qRT-PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2-positive patients were recruited for further study. In addition, 101 SARS-CoV-2-positive hospitalized patients with symptoms were also enrolled in the study. From outpatients, HCWs collected nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS), saliva were obtained. From inpatients, HCWs collected swabs, patient-collected swabs, and saliva were obtained. qRT-PCR was performed to detect SARS-CoV-2 by TAQPATH assay to determine the sensitivity of saliva detection. Sensitivity, specificity and positive/negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) of detecting SARS-CoV-2 were calculated using MedCalc.

Results

Of 3018 outpatients (asymptomatic: 2683, symptomatic: 335) tested by qRT-PCR, 200 were positive (males: 140, females: 60; aged 37.9 ± 12.8 years; (81 asymptomatic, 119 symptomatic). Of these, saliva was positive in 128 (64%); 39 of 81 asymptomatic (47%),89 of 119 symptomatic patients (74.8%). Sensitivity of detection was 60.9% (55.4–66.3%, CI 95%), with a negative predictive value of 36%(32.9–39.2%, CI 95%).Among 101 hospitalized patients (males:65, females: 36; aged 53.48 ± 15.6 years), with HCW collected NPS as comparator, sensitivity of saliva was 56.1% (47.5–64.5, CI 95%), specificity 63.5%(50.4–75.3, CI95%) with PPV of 77.2% and NPV of 39.6% and that of self-swab was 52.3%(44–60.5%, CI95%), specificity 56.6% (42.3–70.2%, CI95%) with PPV 77.2% and NPV29.7%. Comparison of positivity with the onset of symptoms revealed highest detection in saliva on day 3 after onset of symptoms. Additionally, only saliva was positive in 13 (12.8%) hospitalized patients.

Conclusion

Saliva which is easier to collect than nasopharyngeal swab is a viable alternate to detect SARS-COV-2 in symptomatic patients in the early stage of onset of symptoms. Although saliva is currently not recommended for screening asymptomatic patients, optimization of collection and uniform timing of sampling might improve the sensitivity enabling its use as a screening tool at community level.
Prevalence and correlates of Mycoplasma genitalium infection among patients attending a sexually transmitted infection clinic in Guangdong, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Hui , Zhao Pei-Zhen , Ke Wu-Jian , Wang Liu-Yuan , Tso Lai Sze , Chen Zheng-Yu , Liao Yu-Ying , Liang Chun-Mei , Chen Hui-Ru , Ren Xu-Qi , Huang Jin-Mei , Ong Jason J. , Yang Fan , Yang Li-Gang
Published: July 2021

Background

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) causes urogenital tract infections and is associated with reproductive morbidity. Although MG has been reported across many regions and population groups, it is not yet routinely tested for in China. Our study contributes to current research by reporting the prevalence and correlates of MG infection in patients attending a sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic in Guangdong from Jan 2017-May 2018.

Methods

Urethral (from 489 men) and endo-cervical (from 189 women) samples, blood samples, and patient histories (via questionnaires) were collected. Doctors clinically diagnosed anogenital warts (GW) during the examination (n = 678). The presence of MG was evaluated using an in-house via polymerase chain reaction protocol. We also tested all participants for herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), syphilis and HIV. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to evaluate factors associated with MG.

Results

MG was detected in 7.2% (49/678) of the patients (men, 7.4%; women, 6.9%). The MG positivity rate was 14.2% among symptomatic patients, and 5.6% for asymptomatic patients, respectively. Only 36.7% (18/49) Mg positive patients were symptomatic. Among the MG-infected patients, 10.2% were co-infected with CT, 6.1% with NG, 8.2% with HSV-2, 4.1% with syphilis and 22.4% with GW. Presentation with clinical symptoms was significantly associated with MG infection [OR = 2.52 (2.03–3.13)]. In our analysis, MG was not associated with other STIs.

Conclusions

MG is a relatively common infection among individuals attending an STI clinic in Guangdong Province. Routine testing of symptomatic patients may be necessary, and more epidemiological studies are needed to provide evidence for future testing guidelines.