bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retinopathy of Prematurity – Bangladesh perspective
Authors: Rahman Maksudur , Saha Liton Chandra , Hoque Md Mahbubul , Hossain M Monir , Yasmeen BH Nazma
Published: June 2021

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) results in severe visual impairment and blindness in newborns. Now a days with the advancement of the technology to save preterm infants, its incidence is also increasing in both developed and developing countries. Appropriate and timely screening program can prevent ROP and reduces the functional impairment of eyes. Many countries have their guideline for ROP screening. Bangladesh national guideline is still in progress. Hope it will be published soon. In Bangladesh practically nationwide ROP screening was started in 2013. But still most of the screening program is limited to the capital city. Vast majority of neonates who stayed in peripheral districts are still out of screening program and failed to have timely referral. The current efforts of screening program are mainly driven by the private, NGO and the Gov’t professional bodies.

Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.11 (2) Jan 2020: 447- 452
Immediate and Short-term Outcome of Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) after corticosteroid therapy
Authors: Mahbub Mustafa , Sarker Shaoli , Mozumder Suraj C
Published: June 2021

Background : Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an acute demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) occurring predominantly but not exclusively in children. The presence of severe disturbance of consciousness together with multifocal neurological symptoms and signs especially in a child under 10 years of age; favours a diagnosis of ADEM. Neuroimaging is essential investigation for establishing the diagnosis of ADEM. High-dose steroid treatment frequently results in a dramatic clinical improvement.

Objective: This study aimed to describe our experience with Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) focusing on the clinical features, neuroimaging, and outcome after treatment with high-dose steroid.

Method: This retrospective observational study was conducted in children who were admitted as inpatients in Paediatric Neurosciences Department of Dhaka Shishu Hospital (DSH) with the diagnosis of ADEM during the period of 2017- 2019. All patients got high dose IV methylprednisolone for 5 days followed by 2 weeks tapering dose of steroid. Outcome was observed on the 7th day of treatment and 6 months after discharge from hospital.

Result: A total of 16 patients who were diagnosed as ADEM were included in this study. Twelve children (75%) had a recent upper respiratory tract illness. Patients presented most often with motor deficits (88%) and secondly with altered consciousness (63% ) followed by seizure ( 50% ). MRI brain was the preferable neuroimaging which mostly (41.7%) showed multifocal symmetrical demyelination patch. On the 7th day of steroid treatment, significant improvement in motor function and level of consciousness occurred (p values were 0.001% and 0.014% respectively). After 6 months of discharge from hospital; no motor deficit, age-appropriate cognitive level and no seizure in 71%, 57% and 71% respectively.

Conclusion: High dose corticosteroid treatment in ADEM is significantly effective in improvement of motor impairment and consciousness level on immediate follow up.

Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.11 (2) Jan 2020: 468-470
Chi-square Reference Meanings: a Historical-epistemological Overview
Authors: Lugo-Armenta Jesus Guadalupe , Pino-Fan Luis Roberto , Ruiz Hernandez Blanca Rosa
Published: June 2021

The present article shows a historical-epistemological study on the Chi-square statistic. In which theoretical-methodological notions from the Onto-Semiotic Approach (OSA) of mathematical cognition and instruction were used to identify four problems that have been key to the evolution of the Chi-square statistic: the Goodness-of-fit-test, the test of independence, the test of homogeneity and distribution. Furthermore, various meanings of the Chi-square statistic were recognized in the mathematical-statistical practices that are used to solve each of those problems. These meanings could help to establish epistemic criteria that allow, on the one hand, to propose progressive levels of inferential reasoning for the statistic (from informal to formal); and on the other hand, to design tasks oriented to promote the understanding of the diverse meanings of the Chi-square.
Strategies for net zero
Authors: Thew Harriet , Martin Lucy , Ford Rebecca , Hale Thomas , Omukuti Jessica
Published: June 2021

This session will discuss key strategies for mitigating climate change, and the role of the COP26 Fellowships in promoting these solutions.
The mitigation landscape: demand, supply, and systems
Authors: Skea Jim , Roy Joyashree , Fitzgerald Shaun , Bosetti Valentina
Published: June 2021

This session will provide a global overview of technical mitigation solutions and challenges, and the key issues for COP26.
Treescape: Building resilience into the future
Authors: Hardaker Ashley , Pollard Chris , Potter Clive , Gardner Emma , Ferranti Emma , Urquhart Julie , Piana Pietro
Published: June 2021

This session will explore the new interdisciplinary research agenda that will be needed to underpin and help deliver forest expansion and improved tree health, management and protection as key international climate policy objectives. Jointly chaired by the UK’s Future Treescapes Ambassadors, the session will bring together future leaders in treescapes research from across the natural and social sciences and from the arts and humanities research communities in order to debate what this new agenda looks like and how it can best be delivered through high impact, collaborative research. Italian researchers will showcase the approach in their own country.
Opening (Policy): Welcome & Introductions - Nature-based solutions and the opportunities they offer
Authors: Shuckburgh Emily , Howard Boyd Emma , Goldsmith MP Zac
Published: June 2021

This session will introduce the day's theme of Nature-based Solutions with an overview of some of the opportunities they offer.
Dialogue: Implementing NbS across landscapes and seascapes 2
Authors: Chausson Alexandre , Eigenbrod Felix , Tagholm Hugo , Whitlock Raj , Tudhope Sandy , Heinrich Viola
Published: June 2021

Following on from this morning’s session, this dialogue session will examine in more detail the benefits and potential risks of implementing nature-based solutions, covering both land and marine-based approaches.
Conference Closing Panel Discussion
Authors: Shuckburgh Emily , Deben Lord , Edwards Tamsin , Kaoma Brighton
Published: June 2021

Taking place at the end of Climate Exp0 this public debate is an opportunity for members of the public to ask a leading panel of climate change experts their questions on climate change that are important to them. It’s an opportunity to ask how we as individuals can make a difference now to help us move towards net zero; and to find out directly from experts what we can do to change our behaviours and live more sustainably. From biodiversity loss and energy futures, to youth voice and behaviour change, our panelists will decipher the latest in climate science, and inspire how as individuals, groups and nations, we can take action and contribute to advancing a more resilient, sustainable, net zero future.
Closing (Policy): The role of 'local' in delivering a Green Economic Recovery. Policy insights for the UK and beyond.
Authors: Ford Rebbeca , Spires Meggan , Jennings Neil , Billington Polly , Stewart Fraser
Published: June 2021

In the run up to COP26, countries around the world are revisiting their net-zero commitments and nationally determined contributions (NDCs) toward limiting the impacts of climate change. However, there is no clear picture of how these national priorities will be delivered in practice. This session will explore the role that “local” can play in stimulating action and driving Green Economic Recovery. We will explore issues such as: - The role of local leadership, local delivery, and local responsibility and accountability - Local development of supply chain industries and career development and progression over time - The role local action can play in supporting socially equitable recovery - The interplay between local and national action, and what changes are needed in governance structure to enable positive action - Opportunities to learn from overseas, and ensure UK learnings support the international community
Cancer Stem Cells: Emerging Key Players in Immune Evasion of Cancers
Authors: Lei Martina Mang Leng , Lee Terence Kin Wah
Published: June 2021

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulations of undifferentiated cancer cells within the tumor bulk that are responsible for tumor initiation, recurrence and therapeutic resistance. The enhanced ability of CSCs to give rise to new tumors suggests potential roles of these cells in the evasion of immune surveillance. A growing body of evidence has described the interplay between CSCs and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent data have shown the pivotal role of some major immune cells in driving the expansion of CSCs, which concurrently elicit evasion of the detection and destruction of various immune cells through a number of distinct mechanisms. Here, we will discuss the role of immune cells in driving the stemness of cancer cells and provide evidence of how CSCs evade immune surveillance by exerting their effects on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), dendritic cells (DCs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), T-regulatory (Treg) cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). The knowledge gained from the interaction between CSCs and various immune cells will provide insight into the mechanisms by which tumors evade immune surveillance. In conclusion, CSC-targeted immunotherapy emerges as a novel immunotherapy strategy against cancer by disrupting the interaction between immune cells and CSCs in the TME.
Dynamic Formant Trajectories in German Read Speech: Impact of Predictability and Prominence
Authors: Brandt Erika , Möbius Bernd , Andreeva Bistra
Published: June 2021

Phonetic structures expand temporally and spectrally when they are difficult to predict from their context. To some extent, effects of predictability are modulated by prosodic structure. So far, studies on the impact of contextual predictability and prosody on phonetic structures have neglected the dynamic nature of the speech signal. This study investigates the impact of predictability and prominence on the dynamic structure of the first and second formants of German vowels. We expect to find differences in the formant movements between vowels standing in different predictability contexts and a modulation of this effect by prominence. First and second formant values are extracted from a large German corpus. Formant trajectories of peripheral vowels are modeled using generalized additive mixed models, which estimate nonlinear regressions between a dependent variable and predictors. Contextual predictability is measured as biphone and triphone surprisal based on a statistical German language model. We test for the effects of the information-theoretic measures surprisal and word frequency, as well as prominence, on formant movement, while controlling for vowel phonemes and duration. Primary lexical stress and vowel phonemes are significant predictors of first and second formant trajectory shape. We replicate previous findings that vowels are more dispersed in stressed syllables than in unstressed syllables. The interaction of stress and surprisal explains formant movement: unstressed vowels show more variability in their formant trajectory shape at different surprisal levels than stressed vowels. This work shows that effects of contextual predictability on fine phonetic detail can be observed not only in pointwise measures but also in dynamic features of phonetic segments.
Actions of Thyroid Hormones on Thyroid Cancers
Authors: Mousa Shaker A. , Hercbergs Aleck , Lin Hung-Yun , Keating Kelly A. , Davis Paul J.
Published: June 2021

L-Thyroxine (T4) is the principal ligand of the thyroid hormone analogue receptor on the extracellular domain of integrin αvβ3. The integrin is overexpressed and activated in cancer cells, rapidly dividing endothelial cells, and platelets. The biologic result is that T4 at physiological concentration and without conversion to 3,3’,5-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) may stimulate cancer cell proliferation and cancer-relevant angiogenesis and platelet coagulation. Pro-thrombotic activity of T4 on platelets is postulated to support cancer-linked blood clotting and to contribute to tumor cell metastasis. We examine some of these findings as they may relate to cancers of the thyroid. Differentiated thyroid cancer cells respond to physiological levels of T4 with increased proliferation. Thus, the possibility exists that in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinomas in whom T4 administration and consequent endogenous thyrotropin suppression have failed to arrest the disease, T4 treatment may be stimulating tumor cell proliferation. In vitro studies have shown that tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac), a derivative of T4, acts via the integrin to block T4 support of thyroid cancer and other solid tumor cells. Actions of T4 and tetrac or chemically modified tetrac modulate gene expression in thyroid cancer cells. T4 induces radioresistance via induction of a conformational change in the integrin in various cancer cells, although not yet established in thyroid cancer cells. The thyroid hormone receptor on integrin αvβ3 mediates a number of actions of T4 on differentiated thyroid cancer cells that support the biology of the cancer. Additional studies are required to determine whether T4 acts on thyroid cancer cells.
Carbon Exchange and Accumulation in an Orinoco High Plains Native Savanna Ecosystem as Measured by Eddy Covariance
Authors: Morales-Rincon Luis A. , Hernandez Andrea J. , Rodriguez-Hernandez Nubia S. , Jimenez Rodrigo
Published: June 2021

Savanna ecosystems cover ∼20% of the total land surface and account for ∼30% of the terrestrial global net primary production. They are also highly sensitive to climate change, since their carbon (C) sink capacity may decline under rising temperatures and irregular rainfall. These responses, which will define the future climate role of the savanna ecosystems, are currently not well understood. The Colombian Orinoco River basin (“Llanos”) natural savannas are being rapidly converted to agriculture. The impact of this transformation on C fluxes and accumulation is not clear. It is thus urgent to understand the Llanos natural savanna ecosystem services, including their C cycle and underlying mechanisms. Here we report and analyze 2 years of measurements of carbon dioxide fluxes from a naturally-restored (secondary) Llanos High Plains savanna ecosystem, using eddy covariance. Meteorological conditions, particularly rainfall, were quite variable during the measurement period. During the first year of measurements, the savanna was a weak carbon source (35 gC m−2), while during the second year, the system was a comparatively strong carbon sink (−273 gC m−2), despite receiving less rainfall than during the first year. As expected, the savanna net ecosystem exchange (NEE) was highly dependent on global solar radiation, soil water content, and ecosystem respiration. We found that after ∼10 days of nominal drought, i.e., with less than ∼5 mm/day of precipitation, the NEE became highly dependent on drought duration. The ecosystem reached a critical condition of low photosynthetic activity after ∼60 days of nominal drought. Based on these findings, we developed and applied a simple standard meteorology-based model that properly reproduced the observations. Our results indicate that a shift to a climate with similar total precipitation but split into extreme dry and wet seasons might eventually suppress the savanna C uptake capacity.
EGR3-HDAC6-IL-27 Axis Mediates Allergic Inflammation and Is Necessary for Tumorigenic Potential of Cancer Cells Enhanced by Allergic Inflammation-Promoted Cellular Interactions
Authors: Kwon Yoojung , Kim Misun , Kim Youngmi , Jeong Myeong Seon , Jung Hyun Suk , Jeoung Dooil
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate mechanisms of allergic inflammation both in vitro and in vivo in details. For this, RNA sequencing was performed. Early growth response 3 gene (Egr3) was one of the most highly upregulated genes in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL2H3) cells stimulated by antigen. The role of Egr3 in allergic inflammation has not been studied extensively. Egr3 was necessary for passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and passive systemic anaphylaxis (PSA). Egr3 promoter sequences contained potential binding site for NF-κB p65. NF-κB p65 directly regulated Egr3 expression and mediated allergic inflammation in vitro. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) is known to be involved in allergic airway inflammation. HDAC6 promoter sequences contained potential binding site for EGR3. EGR3 showed binding to promoter sequences of HDAC6. EGR3 was necessary for increased expression of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) in antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells. HDAC6 mediated allergic inflammation in vitro and PSA. TargetScan analysis predicted that miR-182-5p was a negative regulator of EGR3. Luciferase activity assay confirmed that miR-182-5p was a direct regulator of EGR3. MiR-182-5p mimic inhibited allergic inflammation both in vitro and in vivo. Cytokine array showed that HDAC6 was necessary for increased interleukin-27 (IL-27) expression in BALB/C mouse model of PSA. Antigen stimulation did not affect expression of EBI3, another subunit of IL-27 in RBL2H3 cells or BALB/C mouse model of PCA or PSA. IL-27 receptor alpha was shown to be able to bind to HDAC6. IL-27 p28 mediated allergic inflammation in vitro, PCA, and PSA. Mouse recombinant IL-27 protein promoted features of allergic inflammation in an antigen-independent manner. HDAC6 was necessary for tumorigenic and metastatic potential enhanced by PSA. PSA enhanced the metastatic potential of mouse melanoma B16F1 cells in an IL-27-dependent manner. Experiments employing culture medium and mouse recombinant IL-27 protein showed that IL-27 mediated and promoted cellular interactions involving B16F1 cells, lung macrophages, and mast cells during allergic inflammation. IL-27 was present in exosomes of antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells. Exosomes from antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells enhanced invasion of B16F1 melanoma cells in an IL-27-dependemt manner. These results present evidence that EGR3-HDAC6-IL-27 axis can regulate allergic inflammation by mediating cellular interactions.
A Straightforward Method for 3D Visualization of B Cell Clusters and High Endothelial Venules in Lymph Nodes Highlights Differential Roles of TNFRI and -II
Authors: Jeucken Kim C. M. , Koning Jasper J. , van Hamburg Jan Piet , Mebius Reina E. , Tas Sander W.
Published: June 2021

Whole mount tissue immunolabeling and imaging of complete organs has tremendous benefits in characterizing organ morphology. Here, we present a straightforward method for immunostaining, clearing and imaging of whole murine peripheral lymph nodes (PLNs) for detailed analysis of their architecture and discuss all procedures in detail in a step-by-step approach. Given the importance of tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) signaling in development of PLNs we used TNFRI-/- and TNFRII-/- mice models as proof-of-concept for this technique by visualizing and analyzing structural changes in PLN B cell clusters and high endothelial venules (HEVs). Samples were subjected to de- and rehydration with methanol, labeled with antibodies for B cells, T cells and high endothelial venules (HEVs) and optically cleared using benzyl alcohol-benzyl benzoate. Imaging was done using LaVision light sheet microscope and analysis with Imaris software. Using these techniques, we confirmed previous findings that TNFRI signaling is essential for formation of individual B cell clusters. In addition, Our data suggest that TNFRII signaling is also to some extent involved in this process as TNFRII-/- PLNs had a B cell cluster morphology reminiscent of TNFRI-/- PLNs. Moreover, visualization and objective quantification of the complete PLN high endothelial vasculature unveiled reduced volume, length and branching points of HEVs in TNFRI-/- PLNs, revealing an earlier unrecognized contribution of TNFRI signaling in HEV morphology. Together, these results underline the potential of whole mount tissue staining and advanced imaging techniques to unravel even subtle changes in lymphoid tissue architecture.
Impact of Probiotic Bacteria on Respiratory Allergy Disorders
Authors: Jakubczyk Dominika , Górska Sabina
Published: June 2021

Respiratory allergy is a common disease with an increased prevalence worldwide. The effective remedy is still unknown, and a new therapeutic approach is highly desirable. The review elaborates the influence of probiotic bacteria on respiratory allergy prevention and treatment with particular emphasis on the impact of the current methods of their administration – oral and intranasal. The background of the respiratory allergy is complex thus, we focused on the usefulness of probiotics in the alleviation of different allergy factors, in particular involved in pathomechanism, local hypersensitive evidence and the importance of epithelial barrier. In this review, we have shown that (1) probiotic strains may vary in modulatory potential in respiratory allergy, (2) probiotic bacteria are beneficial in oral and intranasal administration, (3) recombinant probiotic bacteria can modulate the course of respiratory allergy.
Ramping Up Antimicrobial Peptides Against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2
Authors: Ghosh Santosh K. , Weinberg Aaron
Published: June 2021

Human-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as defensins and cathelicidin LL-37, are members of the innate immune system and play a crucial role in early pulmonary defense against viruses. These AMPs achieve viral inhibition through a variety of mechanisms including, but not limited to, direct binding to virions, binding to and modulating host cell-surface receptors, blocking viral replication, and aggregation of viral particles and indirectly by functioning as chemokines to enhance or curb adaptive immune responses. Given the fact that we are in a pandemic of unprecedented severity and the urgent need for therapeutic options to combat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), naturally expressed AMPs and their derivatives have the potential to combat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and impede viral infectivity in various ways. Provided the fact that development of effective treatments is an urgent public health priority, AMPs and their derivatives are being explored as potential prophylactic and therapeutic candidates. Additionally, cell-based platforms such as human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) therapy are showing success in saving the lives of severely ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. This could be partially due to AMPs released from hMSCs that also act as immunological rheostats to modulate the host inflammatory response. This review highlights the utilization of AMPs in strategies that could be implemented as novel therapeutics, either alone or in combination with other platforms, to treat CoV-2–infected individuals.
Moonlighting Proteins: The Case of the Hexokinases
Authors: Rodríguez-Saavedra Carolina , Morgado-Martínez Luis Enrique , Burgos-Palacios Andrés , King-Díaz Beatriz , López-Coria Montserrat , Sánchez-Nieto Sobeida
Published: June 2021

Moonlighting proteins are defined as proteins with two or more functions that are unrelated and independent to each other, so that inactivation of one of them should not affect the second one and vice versa. Intriguingly, all the glycolytic enzymes are described as moonlighting proteins in some organisms. Hexokinase (HXK) is a critical enzyme in the glycolytic pathway and displays a wide range of functions in different organisms such as fungi, parasites, mammals, and plants. This review discusses HXKs moonlighting functions in depth since they have a profound impact on the responses to nutritional, environmental, and disease challenges. HXKs’ activities can be as diverse as performing metabolic activities, as a gene repressor complexing with other proteins, as protein kinase, as immune receptor and regulating processes like autophagy, programmed cell death or immune system responses. However, most of those functions are particular for some organisms while the most common moonlighting HXK function in several kingdoms is being a glucose sensor. In this review, we also analyze how different regulation mechanisms cause HXK to change its subcellular localization, oligomeric or conformational state, the response to substrate and product concentration, and its interactions with membrane, proteins, or RNA, all of which might impact the HXK moonlighting functions.
Current Perspectives on B Lymphocytes in the Immunobiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Qin Miaomiao , Wang Danping , Fang Yijiao , Zheng Zhiying , Liu Xinyang , Wu Fan , Wang Liangliang , Li Xiao , Hui Bingqing , Ma Shijie , Tang Weiwei , Pan Xiongxiong
Published: June 2021

Immune cells infiltrating tumors are capable of significantly impacting carcinogenesis through cancer promotion and anticancer responses. There are many aspects of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) related T lymphocytes that are undergoing extensive studies, whereas the effect exerted by B lymphocytes remains a less researched area. In this study, the latest research on the effect of B lymphocytes as they infiltrate tumors in relation to HCC is presented. Their prognosis-related importance is analyzed, along with their function in the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as the way that B cell biology can be employed to help create a B cell therapy strategy for HCC.
Application of Diffusion Weighted Imaging Techniques for Differentiating Benign and Malignant Breast Lesions
Authors: He Muzhen , Ruan Huiping , Ma Mingping , Zhang Zhongshuai
Published: June 2021

To explore the value of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM), and diffusional kurtosis imaging (DKI) based on diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) in differentiating benign and malignant breast lesions. A total of 215 patients with breast lesions were prospectively collected for breast MR examination. Single exponential, IVIM, and DKI models were calculated using a series of b values. Parameters including ADC, perfusion fraction (f), tissue diffusion coefficient (D), perfusion-related incoherent microcirculation (D*), average kurtosis (MK), and average diffusivity (MD) were compared between benign and malignant lesions. ROC curves were used to analyze the optimal diagnostic threshold of each parameter, and to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of single and combined parameters. ADC, D, MK, and MD values were significantly different between benign and malignant breast lesions (P<0.001). Among the single parameters, ADC had the highest diagnostic efficiency (sensitivity 91.45%, specificity 82.54%, accuracy 88.84%, AUC 0.915) and the best diagnostic threshold (0.983 μm2/ms). The combination of ADC and MK offered high diagnostic performance (sensitivity 90.79%, specificity 85.71%, accuracy 89.30%, AUC 0.923), but no statistically significant difference in diagnostic performance as compared with single-parameter ADC (P=0.268). The ADC, D, MK, and MD parameters have high diagnostic value in differentiating benign and malignant breast lesions, and of these individual parameters the ADC has the best diagnostic performance. Therefore, our study revealed that the use of ADC alone should be useful for differentiating between benign and malignant breast lesions, whereas the combination of MK and ADC might improve the diagnostic performance to some extent.
Peripheral Lung Squamous Carcinoma With ROS1 Rearrangement Sensitive to Crizotinib: A Case Report
Authors: Yang Guangdie , Wang Jie , Yao Yinan , Zhao Jun , Yu Zheyan , Gao Qiqi , Ye Jiani , Ma Wenjiang
Published: June 2021

ROS1 rearrangements have been identified as driver mutations, accounting for 1–2% of lung adenocarcinoma, but are extremely rare in case of lung squamous cell carcinoma. In this work, we report a lung squamous cell carcinoma in a patient with peripheral lung cancer radiological manifestation, harboring ROS1 rearrangement, with high sensitivity to crizotinib. Our findings suggest that clinicians should pay more attention toward the occurrence of ROS1 rearrangements and the application of crizotinib for lung squamous cell carcinoma treatment.
New Polyketides With Anti-Inflammatory Activity From the Fungus Aspergillus rugulosa
Authors: Xu Qianqian , Qiao Yuben , Zhang Zijun , Deng Yanfang , Chen Tianqi , Tao Li , Xu Qiaoxin , Liu Junjun , Sun Weiguang , Ye Ying , Lu Yuanyuan , Qi Changxing , Zhang Yonghui
Published: June 2021

Two new polyketide compounds, asperulosins A and B (1–2), and one new prenylated small molecule, asperulosin C (3), along with nine known compounds (4–12), were isolated and identified from a fungus Aspergillus rugulosa. Their structures were extensively elucidated via HRESIMS, 1D, and 2D NMR analysis. The absolute configurations of the new compounds were determined by the comparison of their electronic circular dichroism (ECD), calculated ECD spectra, and the detailed discussion with those in previous reports. Structurally, compounds 1 and 2 belonged to the polyketide family and were from different origins. Compound 2 was constructed by five continuous quaternary carbon atoms, which occur rarely in natural products. All of the isolates were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity against the production of nitric oxide (NO) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells. Among those, compounds 1 and 5 showed a significant inhibitory effect on NO production with IC50 values of 1.49 ± 0.31 and 3.41 ± 0.85 μM, respectively. Additionally, compounds 1 and 5 markedly increased the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10 while suppressing the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MCP-1, and IL12. Besides, 1 and 5 inhibited the transcription level of pro-inflammatory macrophage markers IL6, IL1β, and TNF-α while remarkably elevating the anti-inflammatory factor IL10 and M2 macrophage markers ARG1 and CD206. Moreover, 1 and 5 restrained the expression and nuclear translocation of NF-κB, as well as its downstream signaling proteins COX-2 and iNOS. All these results suggest that 1 and 5 have potential as anti-inflammatory agents, with better or comparable activities than those of the positive control, dexamethasone.
Understanding the Factors Influencing the Leisure Tourism Behavior of Visually Impaired Travelers: An Empirical Study in China
Authors: Qiao Guanghui , Zhang Junmiao , Pabel Anja , Chen Nan
Published: June 2021

This study looks at the real-world problems which vision impaired individuals face when they travel. More specifically, this study aims to explore the main factors influencing the leisure tourism behavior of visually impaired individuals. Based on in-depth semi-structured interviews with 26 visually impaired respondents, this study identifies six main factors impacting on the leisure tourism behavior of visually impaired individuals including: tourism products and services, personal psychological factors, social support, community support, personal socio-economic factors, and barrier-free environments. Findings show that visually impaired travelers have strong requirements for auditory, tactile, and physical participation. Support factors such as travel companions/escorts, tour organizers specifically targeting their experiential offerings at the visually impaired, and an accessible environment are important considerations for visually impaired travelers. Findings also show that visually impaired individuals participate in leisure tourism to enhance their own abilities, relieve pressures on their families, break stereotypes associated with the visually impaired, and promote the need for greater tourism development specifically targeting visually impaired travelers. This study also proposes a theoretical model outlining the factors influencing leisure tourism of visually impaired people.
Sex Differences in the Association of HOMA-IR Index and BDNF in Han Chinese Patients With Chronic Schizophrenia
Authors: Yang Yating , Zhang Yulong , Wang Juan , Ning Xiaoshuai , Zhang Yelei , Zhao Tongtong , Zhong Yi , Liu Zhiwei , Xia Lei , Li Wenzheng , Yao Xianhu , Zhang Kai , Liu Huanzhong
Published: June 2021

Background: Previous research has indicated that there are significant sex differences in serum BDNF levels and metabolic indicators in patients with schizophrenia. Studies have found that BDNF is involved in blood sugar regulation. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) is currently a sensitive indicator for measuring insulin resistance. Our study aims to explore the sex differences in the relationship between serum BDNF levels and HOMA-IR in patients with chronic schizophrenia (CS).

Methods: A total of 332 patients with CS were enrolled in this study. General information of all participants was collected. Haematological indicators were collected, and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to evaluate psychiatric symptoms. Sex differences in serum BDNF levels, HOMA-IR index and other metabolic indexes were investigated. Then, linear regression analysis was used to analyse the relationship between the HOMA-IR index and BDNF levels in male and female patients.

Results: The HOMA-IR index of female patients was significantly higher than that of males, but there was no significant difference in serum BDNF levels between male patients and female patients. There was a positive correlation between BDNF level and HOMA-IR index, and this relationship only existed in female patients.

Conclusion: The results show that there are significant sex differences in HOMA-IR in patients with CS. In addition, only in female patients was there a positive correlation between the HOMA-IR index and BDNF level, which suggests that sex factors should be taken into account in evaluating the relationship between BDNF and blood glucose in patients with CS.
Endothelial Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Disease: History and Analysis of the Clinical Utility of the Relationship
Authors: Little Peter J. , Askew Christopher D. , Xu Suowen , Kamato Danielle
Published: June 2021

The endothelium is the single-cell monolayer that lines the entire vasculature. The endothelium has a barrier function to separate blood from organs and tissues but also has an increasingly appreciated role in anti-coagulation, vascular senescence, endocrine secretion, suppression of inflammation and beyond. In modern times, endothelial cells have been identified as the source of major endocrine and vaso-regulatory factors principally the dissolved lipophilic vosodilating gas, nitric oxide and the potent vascular constricting G protein receptor agonists, the peptide endothelin. The role of the endothelium can be conveniently conceptualized. Continued investigations of the mechanism of endothelial dysfunction will lead to novel therapies for cardiovascular disease. In this review, we discuss the impact of endothelial dysfunction on cardiovascular disease and assess the clinical relevance of endothelial dysfunction.
Growth Abnormalities as a Risk Factor of Adverse Neonatal Outcome in Hypertensive Pregnancies—A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kajdy Anna , Feduniw Stepan , Modzelewski Jan , Sys Dorota , Filipecka-Tyczka Dagmara , Muzyka-Placzyńska Katarzyna , Kiczmer Paweł , Grabowski Bartłomiej , Rabijewski Michał
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) include gestational hypertension (GH), chronic hypertension (CH), preeclampsia (PE), and preeclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension (CH with PE). HDP is associated with several short and long-term perinatal and neonatal complications, such as newborn growth restriction and death. This study aimed to establish the association between HDP, newborn growth abnormalities, and neonatal outcome. (2) Methods: This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of 63651 singleton deliveries. (3) Results: Univariate analysis showed a significantly increased risk of intrauterine and neonatal death associated with maternal hypertension and growth disorders. There were differences between growth charts used, with the highest risk of stillbirth for SGA defined by the Intergrowth chart (OR 17.2) and neonatal death for newborn growth restriction (NGR) based on Intergrowth (OR 19.1). Multivariate analysis showed that NGR is a stronger risk factor of neonatal death than SGA only. (4) Conclusions: HDP is significantly associated with growth abnormalities and is an independent risk factor of adverse outcomes. The presence of newborn growth restriction is strongly associated with the risk of neonatal death. The choice of growth chart has a substantial effect on the percentage of diagnosis of SGA and NGR.
Antioxidant and Anti-Aging Potential of Indian Sandalwood Oil against Environmental Stressors In Vitro and Ex Vivo
Authors: Francois-Newton Véronique , Brown Andrew , Andres Philippe , Mandary Madiiha Bibi , Weyers Carli , Latouche-Veerapen Mélissa , Hettiarachchi Dhanushka
Published: June 2021

Distilled from the heartwood of Santalum album, Indian sandalwood oil is an essential oil that historically has been used as a natural active ingredient in cosmetics to condition and brighten the skin. It has been documented to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative activities. Here, we investigated the protective and anti-aging effects of Indian sandalwood oil in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) in HaCaT cells and in human skin explants after exposure to oxidative stress. Using a probe DCFH-DA, the antioxidant capacity of Indian sandalwood oil was monitored following exposure to blue light at 412 nm and 450 nm or cigarette smoke. The anti-aging effect of sandalwood oil was also explored in human skin explants via the assessment of collagenase level (MMP-1). We reported that Indian sandalwood oil possessed antioxidant potential that can scavenge the ROS generated by a free radical generating compound (AAPH). Subsequent exposure to environmental stressors revealed that Indian sandalwood oil possessed superior antioxidant activity in comparison to vitamin E (alpha tocopherol). Using human skin explants, this study demonstrated that Indian sandalwood oil can also inhibit the pollutant-induced level of MMP-1. The findings indicated that Indian sandalwood oil can potentially serve as a protective and anti-aging active ingredient in cosmetics and dermatology against environmental stressors.
Invited Review: Ketosis Diagnosis and Monitoring in High-Producing Dairy Cows
Authors: Lei Mariana Alves Caipira , Simões João
Published: June 2021

This work reviews the current impact and manifestation of ketosis (hyperketonemia) in dairy cattle, emphasizing the practical use of laboratory methods, field tests, and milk data to monitoring this disease. Ketosis is a major issue in high-producing cows, easily reaching a prevalence of 20% during early postpartum when the negative energy balance is well established. Its economic losses, mainly related to decreasing milk yield, fertility, and treatment costs, have been estimated up to €250 per case of ketosis/year, which can double if associated diseases are considered. A deep relationship between subclinical or clinical ketosis and negative energy balance and related production diseases can be observed mainly in the first two months postpartum. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry methods gradually take place in laboratory routine to evaluates body ketones (e.g., beta-hydroxybutyrate) and probably will accurately substitute cowside blood and milk tests at a farm in avenir. Fat to protein ratio and urea in milk are largely evaluated each month in dairy farms indicating animals at risk of hyperketonemia. At preventive levels, other than periodical evaluation of body condition score and controlling modifiable or identifying non-modifiable risk factors, the ruminatory activity assessment during the peripartum seems to be a valuable tool at farms. We conclude that a technological advance progressively takes place to mitigate the effects of these metabolic diseases, which challenge the high-yielding cows.
A Bibliometric Meta-Analysis of Colistin Resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Nwabor Ozioma Forstinus , Terbtothakun Pawarisa , Voravuthikunchai Supayang P. , Chusri Sarunyou
Published: June 2021

Colistin is a last resort antibiotic medication for the treatment of infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. In recent years, various mechanisms have been reported to mediate colistin resistance in K. pneumoniae. This study reports a bibliometric analysis of published articles retrieved from the Scopus database relating to colistin resistance in K. pneumoniae. The research trends in colistin resistance and mechanisms of resistance were considered. A total of 1819 research articles published between 1995 and 2019 were retrieved, and the results indicated that 50.19% of the documents were published within 2017–2019. The USA had the highest participation with 340 (14.31%) articles and 14087 (17.61%) citations. Classification based on the WHO global epidemiological regions showed that the European Region contributed 42% of the articles while the American Region contributed 21%. The result further indicated that 45 countries had published at least 10 documents with strong international collaborations amounting to 272 links and a total linkage strength of 735. A total of 2282 keywords were retrieved; however, 57 keywords had ≥15 occurrences with 764 links and a total linkage strength of 2388. Furthermore, mcr-1, colistin resistance, NDM, mgrB, ceftazidime-avibactam, MDR, combination therapy, and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae were the trending keywords. Concerning funders, the USA National Institute of Health funded 9.1% of the total research articles, topping the list. The analysis indicated poor research output, collaboration, and funding from Africa and South-East Asia and demands for improvement in international research collaboration.
Forecasting Commodity Prices: Looking for a Benchmark
Authors: Kwas Marek , Rubaszek Michał
Published: June 2021

The random walk, no-change forecast is a customary benchmark in the literature on forecasting commodity prices. We challenge this custom by examining whether alternative models are more suited for this purpose. Based on a literature review and the results of two out-of-sample forecasting experiments, we draw two conclusions. First, in forecasting nominal commodity prices at shorter horizons, the random walk benchmark should be supplemented by futures-based forecasts. Second, in forecasting real commodity prices, the random walk benchmark should be supplemented, if not substituted, by forecasts from the local projection models. In both cases, the alternative benchmarks deliver forecasts of comparable and, in many cases, of superior accuracy.
Play Elements as Mechanisms in Intergenerational Arts Activities to Support Community Engagement with End-of-Life Issues
Authors: Kleijberg Max , Hilton Rebecca , Ahlberg Beth Maina , Tishelman Carol
Published: June 2021

Talking about dying, death, and loss may be difficult. Arts offer alternative ways of engaging with end-of-life (EoL) issues, but little is known about the means through which this occurs. In this article, we aim to explore mechanisms in arts activities that support community engagement with EoL issues, based on the community-based participatory action research project Studio DöBra. Studio DöBra was developed to support community engagement with EoL issues through intergenerational arts workshops involving community partners, children, and older adults. Initial analysis with community partners indicated the importance of play elements in arts activities. Continued analysis was therefore abductive, using play theory and qualitative data from Studio DöBra arts activities. Through iterative examination of theory and data, we modified play theory as we identified mechanisms supporting community engagement with EoL issues in arts activities. Findings can contribute to theory-building that can inform arts activities supporting community engagement with EoL issues.
A Comprehensive Review of Polymeric Wastewater Purification Membranes
Authors: Singh Rasmeet , Singh Mandeep , Kumari Nisha , Janak  , Maharana Sthitapragyan , Maharana Pragyansu
Published: June 2021

Synthetic membranes are currently employed for multiple separation applications in various industries. They may have been prepared from organic or inorganic materials. Present research majorly focuses on polymeric (i.e., organic) membranes because they show better flexibility, pore formation mechanism, and thermal and chemical stability, and demand less area for installation. Dendritic, carbon nanotube, graphene and graphene oxide, metal and metal oxide, zwitter-ionic, and zeolite-based membranes are among the most promised water treatment membranes. This paper critically reviews the ongoing developments to utilize nanocomposite membranes to purify water. Various membranes have been reported to study their resistance and fouling properties. A special focus is given towards multiple ways in which these nanocomposite membranes can be employed. Therefore, this review provides a platform to develop the awareness of current research and motivate its readers to make further progress for utilizing nanocomposite membranes in water purification.
The Effects of Capture and Time Out of Water on Sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria) Reflexes, Mortality, and Health
Authors: Rodgveller Cara , Löhr Christiane V. , Dimond John A.
Published: June 2021

It is unknown if capture coupled with time out of water on-deck affect sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria) health and reflexes, and whether it contributes to acute or delayed mortality. In this study, 35 sablefish were caught using hook-and-line gear and given six reflex tests after capture. Thirty-two were subsequently transported to the laboratory, held for 45–52 days, and then experimentally held out of the water for either 0, 3, 6, or 11 min. After 7–10 days of holding in the laboratory after the experiment, to monitor for mortalities, reflexes were tested for a second time and necropsies and histopathology were performed. There were no histological findings and no mortalities; however, parasites and minor inflammation were observed. All occurrences were not a result of capture or experiments. Some reflexes were absent after capture (77% could right themselves, 69% responded to a tail grab, and 57% responded to sound.) The only test where the reflex did not improve to 100% in the laboratory was the sound reflex. The sound reflex was highest for control fish (63%) and there were no positive sound reflexes for fish held out of water for 11 min. The absence of reflexes may result in predation after release and present issues with feeding or communication.