bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepcidin as a Regulator of Iron Metabolism and Mediator of Inflammation in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure and Anemia of Chronic Diseases of the Elderly and Senile Age
Authors: Solomakhina N. I. , Lishuta A. S. , Dementieva A. V.
Published: November 2022

Aim. To study the role of hepcidin as a regulator of iron metabolism and a mediator of inflammation in elderly and senile patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) with anemia of chronic diseases (ACD).Material and methods. The levels of hemogram parameters, ferrokinetics (serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, erythropoietin, hepcidin), inflammation [C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6)], as well as correlations between hepcidin and these parameters were studied in patients with CHF with ACD (n=35), with CHF without anemia (n=35) and in elderly and senile patients without CHF and anemia (control group; n=20).Results. Normal levels of hepcidin (9.17±0.97 ng/ml) and the only significant correlation of hepcidin with the ferrokinetic parameter – serum iron [r(S)=0.480, p<0.05] were found in the control group. Normal levels of hepcidin (12.01±1.19 ng/ml) and two significant correlations of hepcidin with the ferrokinetic parameter – ferritin [r(S)=0.525, p<0.05] and transferrin [r(S)=-0.343, p<0.05] were found in the CHF without anemia group. Significantly elevated levels of hepcidin (23.81±3.63 ng/ml) were found in the CHF with ACD group compared to the CHF without anemia group (p=0.008) and the control group (p=0.003). Also, five significant correlations of hepcidin with hemogram parameters – hemoglobin [r(S)=-0.461, p<0.05] and the average concentration of hemoglobin in the erythrocyte [r(S)=-0.437, p<0.05]; with ferrokinetic parameters – ferritin [r(S)=0.596,p<0.05] and transferrin [r(S)=-0.474, p<0.05]; with inflammation parameters – CRP [r(S)=0.561, p<0.05] were found in the CHF with ACD group.Conclusion. The increased level of hepcidin in CHF patients with ACD and the formation of links of hepcidin with indicators of inflammation reflect its role as a mediator of inflammation, and the formation of connections with indicators of hemogram and ferrokinetics – its role as a regulator of iron metabolism involved in the development of ACD in elderly and senile CHF patients.
Pararenalfat Tissue: Rate of Pararenal Obesity and Relation with Anthropometric Indices of Obesity
Authors: Podzolkov V. I. , Bragina A. E. , Osadchiy K. K. , Rodionova J. N. , Bayutina D. A.
Published: November 2022

Aim. To study a rate of excessive pararenal fat tissue (PRFT) thickness and its relationship with anthropometric obesity indices.Material and methods. 372 patients (152 men and 220 women) were included in the study, the average age was 63.5±13.3 years. There were measured: height, weight, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), body mass index (BMI), WC/height ratio, sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD), body fat percentage (BFP), body surface area (BSA), body adiposity index (BAI) and visceral obesity index (VAI). All subjects underwent abdominal multispiral computed tomography. PRFT thickness was detected on a single slice at the level of the left renal vein.Results. 27% of the examined group had BMI<25 kg/m2, 28% – excessive body mass, 45% – obesity. The median PRFT thickness was 1.61 (1.03; 2.46) cm. There were correlations between PRFT thickness and glucose (r=0,64, p<0,05) and uric acid (r=0,46, p<0,05) levels. The threshold of referential PRFT thickness was 1,91cm. The rate of pararenal obesity was 9,9% among those with normal body mass, 29,3% in excessive body mass, 66,1% – in 1 class obesity, 67,7% – in 2 class, and 90,1% – in 3 class. The correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the PRFT thickness and obesity indices with exception of VAI and BAI: with BMI (r=0.43, p<0.05), WC (r=0.57, p<0.05), SAD (r=0.58, p<0.05), BFP (r=0.48, p<0.05), WC/height ratio (r=0.46, p<0.05), and BSA (r=0.58, p<0.05).Conclusion. Excessive PRFT may be detected isolated without any external anthropometric signs of obesity, wherein it is an active component of metabolic disorders typical for obesity. The most significant indices for the detection of pararenal obesity may be WC, SAD, and BSA.
The impact of farmer partnerships on arabica coffee farming in Simalungun Regency, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia
Authors: Astuti Linda Tri Wira , Flores Diana Sofia Huitron , Arman Iman , Herawati Herawati , Butarbutar Yenny Laura
Published: November 2022

Coffee is one of Indonesia's main economic activities for foreign exchange. An increase in exports of 8.11%, and a decline in imports of 58% in 2019, opened up export opportunities and large domestic markets. The government has implemented efforts to improve coffee farmers' welfare, one of which is agricultural business partnerships that can solve smallholder problems in developing countries and expand subsistence or traditional agriculture to high production value and export-oriented. This research aimed to analyze (1) the factors influencing coffee farmers' participation in agricultural partnerships and (2) the impact of the agricultural partnership on coffee farmers' performance in Simalungun Regency, North Sumatra Province. The Propensity Score Matching (PSM) technique analyzed the partnership's influence on coffee farming and agricultural income, productivity, and prices.  The results showed that number of dependents  household members and land area influence farmers' partnership participation. Participation increases coffee farming and agricultural income, productivity, and prices.
On the Application of Probabilistic Decline Curve Analysis to Unconventional Reservoirs
Authors: Egbe U. C. , Awoleke O. O. , Olorode O. M. , Goddard S. D.
Published: November 2022

Several authors have worked on combining decline curve analysis (DCA) models and stochastic algorithms for probabilistic DCAs. However, there are no publications on the application of these probabilistic decline curve models to all the major shale basins in the United States. Also, several empirical and analytical decline curve models have been developed to fit historical production data better; there is no systematic investigation of the relevance of the efforts on new model development compared with the efforts to quantify the uncertainty associated with the “noise” in the historical data. This work compares the uncertainty associated with determining the best-fit model (epistemic uncertainty) with the uncertainty associated with the historical data (aleatoric uncertainty) and presents a procedure to find DCA-stochastic algorithm combinations that encompass the epistemic uncertainty.

We investigated two Bayesian methods—the approximate Bayesian computation and the Gibbs sampler—and two frequentist methods—the conventional bootstrap (BS) and modified BS (MBS). These stochastic algorithms were combined with five empirical DCA models (Arps, Duong, power law, logistic growth, and stretched exponential decline) and the analytical Jacobi theta-2 model. We analyzed historical production data from 1,800 wells (300 wells from each of the six major shale basins studied) with historical data lengths ranging from 12 to 60 months. We show the errors associated with the assumption of a uniform distribution for the model parameters and present an approach for integrating informative prior (IP) probabilistic distributions instead of the noninformative prior (NIP) or uniform prior distributions. Our results indicate the superior performance of the Bayesian methods, especially at short hindcasts (12–24 months of production history). We observed that the duration of the historical production data was the most critical factor. Using long hindcasts (up to 60 months) leveled the performance of all probabilistic methods regardless of the decline curve model or statistical methodology used. Additionally, we showed that it is possible to find DCA-stochastic model combinations that reflect the epistemic uncertainty in most of the shale basins investigated.

The novelty of this work lies in the development of IPs for the Bayesian methodologies and the development of a systematic approach to determine the combination of statistical methods and DCA models that encompasses the epistemic uncertainty. The proposed approach was implemented using open-source software packages to make our results reproducible and to facilitate its practical application in forecasting production in unconventional oil and gas reservoirs.
Prevalence, Knowledge and Awareness of Obstructive sleep apnea among Egyptians attending outpatient clinics.
Authors: Adwi Mohamed , Elmoushy Mohamed , Bassiony Mahmoud , Madkour Mahmoud , Mustafa Hassan , Rabie Moustafa M , Alboraie Mohamed
Published: November 2022

Purpose:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that causes upper airway collapse leading to sleep apnea or hypopnea and is associated with serious health conditions. Despite being prevalent, it is an underdiagnosed and undertreated disease. We aimed at measuring the prevalence of OSA risk and detecting the level of knowledge of OSA among Egyptians attending outpatient clinics.
Methods:
A cross sectional study conducted at two university hospitals at Cairo using a Berlin questionnaire and OSA Knowledge and Attitude Questionnaire (OSAKA) Participants were recruited from outpatient clinics of Al-Hussein University Hospital and Al-Sayed Galal University Hospital. We used a validated Arabic translated version of the Berlin Questionnaire. Three domains (10 questions) were tested: the presence and severity of snoring, frequency of daytime sleepiness, and the presence of obesity or hypertension. A translation of 5 questions from OSA Knowledge/Attitude Questionnaire (OSAKA) that are suitable for the general population were also used.
Results:
Out of 395 participants approached, 345 participants (87%) completed the questionnaire. The age ranged from 18 to 82 years old (40.9 ± 15.5 SD). About 52% of participants were females (n=179) and 48% were males (n=166). The prevalence of high risk OSA among the studied population was 17.4% (n=60). Older ages, obesity and hypertension were found to be significantly associated with OSA risk. On the level of OSA awareness, 90.1% (n=311) of participants didn’t not have previous knowledge about OSA and there was no significant association between participants’ knowledge, and risk of OSA.
Conclusion:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was associated with older ages, obesity and hypertension. The knowledge level was far from needed among the studied group. This lack of knowledge needs to be addressed to reduce the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of obstructive sleep apnea.
Quantifying Dysregulation of fMRI-Derived Control Circuits for Computational Psychiatry
Authors: Sultan Syed , Skiena Steve , Mujica-Parodi Lilianne
Published: November 2022

Psychiatric disorders are thought to result from dysregulated brain circuits, yet human neuroimaging currently lacks standardized methods for quantifying neural dysregulation. Here, we present a scalable framework for extracting fMRI-derived (generative) control circuits, then use circuit trajectories to estimate their control error. Using synthetic circuits, we first demonstrate that our framework accurately identifies each circuit's architecture and models its dynamics by estimation of transfer functions. As a use case, we then apply the framework to human task-based functional MRI data (UK Biobank, N=19,831). In a purely data-driven manner, without priors, our framework identified thalamus-linked prefrontal-limbic and ventral stream subcircuits, selectively engaged during sensorimotor processing of affective and non-affective stimuli. Finally, we demonstrate that circuit-wide dysregulation, defined by degree of drift from healthy trajectories, tracks symptom severity for neuroticism (ventral subcircuit), depression (prefrontal-limbic subcircuit), and bipolar disorder (full circuit).
Malaria-driven expansion of adaptive-like functional CD56-negative NK cells correlates with clinical immunity to malaria
Authors: Jagannathan Prasanna , Ty Maureen , Sun Shenghuan , Callaway Perri , Rek John , Dantzler Kathleen , Ploeg Kattria van der , Nideffer Jason , Hu Zicheng , Klemm Sandy , Greenleaf William , Donato Michele , Tukwasibwe Stephen , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Nankya Felistas , Musinguzi Kenneth , Andrew Dean , Parte Lauren de la , Mori Diego , Takahashi Saki , Rodriguez-Barraquer Isabel , Greenhouse Bryan , Blish Catherine , Utz Paul , Khatri Purvesh , Dorsey Grant , Kamya Moses , Boyle Michelle , Feeney Margaret , Ssewanyana Isaac
Published: November 2022

Natural Killer (NK) cells likely play an important role in immunity to malaria, but whether repeated malaria modifies the NK cell response remains unclear. Here, we comprehensively profiled the NK cell response in a cohort of 264 Ugandan children. Repeated malaria exposure was associated with expansion of an atypical, CD56neg population of NK cells that differed transcriptionally, epigenetically, and phenotypically from CD56dim NK cells, including decreased expression of PLZF and the Fc receptor g chain, increased histone methylation, and increased protein expression of LAG-3, KIR and LILRB1. CD56neg NK cells were highly functional, displaying greater antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity than CD56dim NK cells, and higher frequencies of these cells were associated with protection against symptomatic malaria and high parasite densities. Importantly, following marked reductions in malaria transmission, frequencies of these cells rapidly declined, suggesting that continuous exposure to malaria is required to maintain this modified, adaptive-like NK cell subset.
CENPF Knockdown Inhibits Adriamycin Chemoresistance In Triple Negative Breast Cancer Mediated By Rb-E2F1 Axis
Authors: Wang Depeng , Xu Wei , Huang Minghua , Ma Wei , Liu Yulu , Zhou Xingchen , Yang Qingrui , Mu Kun
Published: November 2022

Background:
Frequent developed resistance leads to early relapse and short survival in Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Targeting DNA damage response (DDR) has become an effective strategy for overcoming TNBC chemoresistance. CENPF (centromere protein) is a key regulator of cell cycle progression, but its role in TNBC chemotherapy resistance remains unclear.
Methods:
We Used bioinformatics, immunohistochemical staining and real-time quantitative PCR analysis to explore the expression of CENPF in triple negative breast cancer tissues and cells. Then, we analyze the relationship between CENPF expression with clinicopathological parameters and survival prognosis of patients. The effects of CENPF on the proliferation, apoptosis, cycle, and drug sensitivity of triple negative breast cancer cells were detected in vitro. The chemoresistance mechanisms of CENPF in TNBC cells was evaluated by immunoblotting, immunofluorescence co-localization, and co-immunoprecipitation .
Results:
Here we found CENPF, highly expressed in TNBC, is associated with poor prognosis in patients receiving chemotherapy. And in vitro CENPF knockdown significantly increased adriamycin (ADR)-induced cytotoxicity in MDA-MB-231 and its ADR-resistant strains (MDA-MB-231/ADR). Then we demonstrated that CENPF targets Chk1-mediated G2/M phase arrest and binds to Rb for competing with E2F1 in TNBC. Collectively Considering crucial role of E2F1 in DNA damage response and DNA repair, a novel mechanism for CENPF to regulate Rb-E2F1 axis will provide new horizons to finally overcome chemotherapy resistance in TNBC.
Conclusion:
CENPF binds to Rb for competing with E2F1 and promotes Chk1 expression through the Rb/E2F1 axis to enhance chemoresistance to doxorubicin in TNBC.
Distinct immunoreactions after microwave ablation of primary tumor with different heating parameters in VX2 tumor model
Authors: Qian Mengjia , Lyu Jin , Da Xia , Zhu Chunhua , Wang Guozhu , Fang Yuan , Xu Jin
Published: November 2022

Background Thermal ablations of solid tumors in situ can activate the immune system and produce a specific immune response against tumor. Microwave ablation (MWA) with different parameters can ablate tumors with similar sizes and cause different local inflammatory effects. Our aim was to determine whether MWA of primary tumor in different energy modes can induce different immunological effects. Methods Seventy rabbits with VX2 tumors implanted subcutaneously underneath the right second nipple were treated with high-power MWA (40W×1 minute), low-power MWA (20W×2 minutes), surgical resection, or left without treatment as control. Survival time was evaluated by log-rank test. On day 14 after ablation, immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry were used to evaluate the T-cell immune responses. Besides, the cytokine patterns were also identified from enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Tumor eradication was achieved completely in MWA groups as proven by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide diapforase (NADH-diaphorase) staining. The rabbits in the control group showed significantly more pulmonary metastases and poorer survival than the three treatment groups; however, no significant difference was observed among three treatment groups. MWA groups induced more intratumoral and systemic CD4+and CD8+T cells than the control group. MWA caused more systemic CD4+T cells than operation. High-power MWA induced more intratumoral CD4+and CD8+T cells and systemic CD4+T cells than low-power MWA. MWA induced increased levels of IL-2, IL-12 and decreased levels of IL-4, IL-6, IL-10 compared with control group. Importantly, a significant higher level of serum IL-12 was found in high-power MWA than that in low-power MWA group. Conclusions High-power MWA induced enhanced Th1-type immune response in comparison to low-power MWA. High-power MWA may be selected for the treatment of solid tumors, although future studies are still needed to confirm our results.
High Cell Density Cultivation (HCDC) of E. coli with Intensive Multiple Sequential Batches Together with
Fed-Batch at Cell Level (FBC) Superior to the Fed-Batch Technique
Authors: Chamsart Saethawat
Published: November 2022

High cell density cultivation (HCDC) is a technique that was developed and used in the cultivation of various microorganisms. Escherichia coli is the most prominent in the bacterial group and popular at the industrial scale for the production of bio-products. The HCDC conducted with the Fed-Batch modes is complicated. In this study, we developed a batch production medium (BPM), a minimal defined medium for industrial utilization with the potential use of dextrin at high concentrations as the major carbon source. Dextrin prevents cell cultivation system from the Crabtree effect due to its gradual hydrolysis to release glucose and gradual assimilation into E. coli cells like Fed-Batch at Cell Level (FBC). Yeast extract was added into the BPM to enhance cell growth. It was operated using 5-L bioreactors with the aerobic batch cultivation at high concentrations of dextrin, i.e., 90 g/L to achieve high-cell-density concentration at a high production rate superior to the Fed-Batch technique. Further, the Intensive Multiple Sequential Batch (IMFB) technique was developed to achieve a high yield at a high productivity. The maximum values of cell biomass, x; specific growth rate; yield coefficient, Yx/s; productivity, rx; and efficiency (Ef) were 46.31 g/L, 0.54 h-1, 0.55 g/g, 3.86 g/L/h and 98%, respectively. The results showed that cell cultivations and growth kinetics, biochemical engineering mass balances, and design of impeller speeds using fluid dynamics in the 5-L bioreactor of aerobic batch cell cultivation for the production of E. coli cell biomass a high-density concentration using dextrin to control the FBC at a high titer can be used for the scale-up of industrial bioreactors.
Innovation in healthcare: leadership perceptions about the innovation characteristics of artificial intelligence- a qualitative interview study with healthcare leaders in Sweden
Authors: Neher Margit , Petersson Lena , Nygren Jens , Svedberg Petra , Larsson Ingrid , Nilsen Per
Published: November 2022

Background
There are substantial challenges in the implementation of intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare. This study aimed to provide an insight into implementation preconditions by exploring the perceptions of leaders and managers in Swedish healthcare concerning the intervention characteristics of AI as an innovation to be implemented into their organization.
Methods
The study had a deductive qualitative design, using constructs from the domain of intervention characteristics in the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Interviews were conducted with 26 leaders in healthcare.
Results
The participants perceived that AI could provide relative advantages in solutions for the management of care, for clinical decision-support and for early detection of disease and disease risk. The development of AI in the organization itself was perceived as the main current intervention source. The evidence strength behind AI-technology was questioned by the participants, who highlighted a lack of transparency and potential quality and safety risks. Although the participants perceived AI to be superior for humans in terms of effectiveness and precision in the analysis of medical imaging, they expressed uncertainty about the adaptability and trialability of AI in other clinical environments. The participants perceived that user and end-user views on design quality and packaging would impact implementation at all levels. Complexities such as the characteristics of the technology, the lack of consensus about AI as a concept, and the need for many implementation strategies to achieve potentially transformative practice change were spoken of, and the participants also expressed uncertainty about the costs involved in AI-implementation.
Conclusion
The leaders saw the potential of the technology and its use in practice, but also perceived that AI’s opacity limits its evidence strength, and that there was a high level of complexity both in AI itself and in introducing it in healthcare practice. More research is needed about the perceptions of AI implementation in other stakeholder groups and about outcomes from the implementation of AI in real-world situations. New theories, models and frameworks may need to be developed to meet the challenges related to the implementation of AI.
An African Perspective on the Water-Energy-Food Nexus
Authors: Simpson Gareth , Jewitt Graham P.W. , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe , Badenhorst Jessica
Published: November 2022

There is a need to address resource security and distributional justice in developing countries. People need water, energy, and food to sustain their livelihoods and to achieve sustainable development. The interactions between these resource sectors form the crux of water-energy-food (WEF) nexus assessments. In this study, we have utilised the WEF Nexus Index to analyse 54 African nations for whom sufficient data was available in 2019. The results for several countries were analysed to illustrate the opportunities and constraints for future development. The analysis demonstrates that, for many African countries, policies that undergird investments in energy supply projects are needed to unlock available freshwater resources to meet their food requirements. Such projects can be utilised to enhance the ability of farmers to manage water through drought-proofing rainfed agriculture, an increase in irrigation development, or both. WEF nexus-based studies, policies, and projects must be focussed on the direct and indirect achievement of SDGs 1, 2, 6, 7, and 13, both in terms of access and availability, to ensure distributional justice, especially in the African context. Such actions, combined with broad public participation, can have a ripple effect on other SDGs such as SDGs 5, 10, and 17, thereby reducing inequalities and building partnerships to attain these aspirational goals. The assessment of Africa’s relatively low scores in terms of the WEF Nexus Index does not represent a negative narrative. Instead, it provides an entry point to understanding the underlying challenges, through which more detailed analyses can lead to identified solutions and policies. Many African countries are trapped in an environment that could be termed a ‘poverty-unemployment-inequality nexus’ (due to the interlinkages that exist between these ‘wicked’ problems). The WEF Nexus Index provides high-level insights into these opportunities.
IL-6 up-regulates the expression of IL-6R through JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway to promote HCC progression
Authors: Song Li , Xu Ruyue , Cai Wenpeng , Liang Jiaojiao , Cao Niandie , Gao Jiafeng , Tang Xiaolong
Published: November 2022

Background

The progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involves multi-factor, multi-step interactions. It has been reported that the high expression of interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumors, but the regulation mechamismof IL-6R expression and its function in HCC have not been adequately reported.

Methods

Western Blot was used to evaluate the phosphorylation of key kinases in JAK2/STAT3 pathway and the protein expression levels of related proliferative molecules, migration molecules and apoptotic molecules. The anti-apoptosis, migration and proliferation abilities of cells of each group were analyzed using JC-1 measures cell apoptosis, EdU method to detect cell apoptosis, clone formation experiment and Transwell.

Result

The expression of IL-6R in HCC cells (HepG2, Huh7 and SK-Hep1) was higher than that in normal hepatocytes (THLE-2 and THLE-5), and the protein expression of IL-6R was relatively highest in SK-Hep1 and relatively lowest in HepG2. Compared with the HepG2IL − 6 cell line, the protein levels of apoptotic molecules c-Caspase7 and c-Caspase3 were lower, while the protein levels of proliferative molecules p-P70S6K and migration molecules MMP9 and MMP2 were higher, showing stronger anti-apoptosis, proliferation and migration abilities. Compared with SK-Hep1 in SK-Hep1TCZ and SK-Hep1IL − 6R−, the protein levels of apoptotic molecules c-Caspase7 and c-Caspase3 were higher, while the protein levels of proliferative molecules p-P70S6K and migration molecules MMP9 and MMP2 were lower. It showed strong apoptotic ability and low proliferation and migration ability. Interestingly, IL-6 up-regulated the expression of IL-6R by activating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. The expression of IL-6R protein was also down-regulated after lentivirus knockdown of STAT3. In subcutaneous tumor-bearing experiments in nude mice, compared with SK-Hep1 group, the up-regulation of IL-6R expression after JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway activation by IL-6 in SK-Hep1IL − 6 group significantly improved the tumor growth ability. However, the expression of IL-6R protein was down-regulated and the terminal tumor volume was significantly down-regulated in the lentiviral STAT3 knockdown group, which inhibited the tumor growth ability.

Conclusions

The results showed that IL-6 regulated the transcription of IL-6R through the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, thereby promoting the progression of HCC. The result are expected to provide experimental basis for IL-6R as a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
Assessment of Students’ Earthquake Risk Perception on Their Metacognition in Weija-gbawe Municipality, Ghana.
Authors: Kwang Moses Abamoah , Osman Adams , Adu-Boahen Kofi
Published: November 2022

Most studies on metacognition have devoted attention to self-awareness, learning process and outcome. However, there is a paucity of literature on how earthquake risk perception affects students’ metacognition. This study assessed Senior High School (SHS) students’ earthquake risk perception and its effects on their metacognition in the Weija-Gbawe Municipality, Ghana. The study used a questionnaire collect data from 219 students proportionally from three (3) SHS (Ansong Senior High School, Pentecost Vocational Training Institute, and Royals Senior High Schools). Data processing and analysis techniques employed were exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, the Kruskal-Wallis test, and path analysis. Results showed a high earthquake risk perception among students. Also, students' risk perception had statistical significance effects on the metacognition especially for younger students. The study recommends that the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and Ghana Education Service to offer counselling sessions for students and earthquake disaster risk sensitisation programmes for students.
Do symptoms moderate the association between participation and executive function outcomes among people with schizophrenia?
Authors: Kaizerman-Dinerman Alona , Roe David , Demeter Naor , Josman Naomi
Published: November 2022

Background: Literature explains participation limitations among people with schizophrenia through the context of metacognitive limitations, specifically in symptoms and in executive functions (EF). Research has shown mixed results regarding associations between symptoms and participation, reporting association with negative symptoms, positive symptoms, or only metacognitive limitations. The aim of this study was to deepen understanding of the symptoms’ impact on participation among people with schizophrenia.
Methods: Forty-three participants with schizophrenia received 8 group sessions of focused metacognitive intervention (MCG) aimed at promoting participation by focusing on EF components (e.g., analyzing individual cognitive strategy use). Three measures were administered: the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) to evaluate symptoms, the Weekly Calendar Planning Assessment (WCPA) to assess EF, and the Activity Card Sort (ACS) to measure participation at the baseline and 12 weeks following completion of the intervention. Scores were compared to a matched control group of 41 people with schizophrenia who instead received treatment as usual. The role of PANSS as moderator was examined using multiple hierarchical regressions, entering interactions between the PANSS scores and WCPA change scores in the final regression step.
Results: Relationships were not significant for participants with high PANSS scores. A positive relationship existed between change in WCPA and change in ACS for participants with low PANSS scores.
Conclusions: These results demonstrate that low PANSS scores moderate the association between EF and participation and highlight the importance of symptoms as a predictor of participation following the MCG intervention.
Synergistic effects of selenium and silicon mitigate arsenic toxicity in plant (Oryza sativa L.) and human model (keratinocyte HaCaT cells lines) systems
Authors: Kumar Amit , Gupta Kiran , Baker Abu , Srivast Sudhakar , Singh Pradyumna Kumar , Khan Shahebraj , Ansari Mohammad Israil
Published: November 2022

Arsenic (As) is a toxic element for plants, animals and humans. The mitigation of As stress has been achieved via selenium (Se) and silica (Si) supplementations. However, the effects of combined application of Se and Si against As stress are not known. The present study was conducted on a plant (rice;Oryza sativaL.) and human model (keratinocyte HaCaT cell lines) systems to evaluate the effects of Se (0.5 and 1 mg L− 1) and Si (10 and 30 mg L− 1) against As (4 mg L− 1). The rice plants, grown hydroponically for 7 d in various treatments, showed reduction in As accumulation in As + Se/Si/Se + Si treatments in comparison to As treated plants. The reduction in As accumulation in root and shoot was 57% and 64%, respectively in As + Se + Si treatment. The increase in enzymatic antioxidant system (SOD, APX, GPx, GR and GST) along with decrease in oxidative stress markers (MDA, DHA, ASC and H2O2) in As + Se + Si treatment as compared to As treatment signified elevated tolerance of rice plants to As stress. The cytotoxicity amelioration by Se + Si supply was also seen in HaCaT cells exposed to As in terms of cell viability and As-induced shrinking and apoptosis. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that an optimum combination of Se and Si can be effectively used to mitigate As toxicity in plants and possibly humans also.
A randomised study of rituximab and belimumab sequential therapy in PR3 ANCAassociated vasculitis (COMBIVAS): design of the study protocol
Authors: McClure Mark Edward , Gopaluni Seerapani , Wason James , Henderson Robert B , Maurik Andre Van , Savage Caroline , Pusey Charles , Salama Alan , Lyons Paul A. , Lee Jacinta , Mynard Kim , Jayne David , Jones Rachel
Published: November 2022

Background. Sequential B cell targeted immunotherapy with BAFF antagonism (belimumab) and B cell depletion (rituximab) and may enhance B cell targeting in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) through several mechanisms.
Study Design. COMBIVAS is a randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled trial designed to assess the mechanistic effects of sequential therapy of belimumab and rituximab in patients with active PR3-AAV. The recruitment target is 30 patients who meet the criteria for inclusion in the per protocol analysis. Thirty-six participants have been randomised to one of two treatment groups in a 1:1 ratio; either rituximab plus belimumab or rituximab plus placebo (both groups with the same tapering corticosteroid regimen) and recruitment is now closed (final patient enrolled March 2021). For each patient, the trial will last for two years comprising a 12-month treatment period followed by a 12-month follow-up period.
Participants. Participants have been recruited from five of seven UK trial sites. Eligibility criteria were age ³18 years, a diagnosis of AAV with active disease (newly diagnosed or relapsing disease), along with a concurrent positive test for PR3-ANCA by ELISA.
Interventions. Rituximab 1000mg was administered by intravenous infusions on Day 8 and Day 22. Weekly subcutaneous injections of 200mg belimumab or placebo were initiated a week before rituximab on Day 1 and then weekly through to Week 51. All participants received a relatively low prednisolone (20 mg/day) starting dose from Day 1 followed by a protocol-specified corticosteroid taper aiming for complete cessation by 3 months.
Outcomes. The primary endpoint of this study is time to PR3 ANCA negativity. Key secondary outcomes include change from baseline in naïve, transitional, memory, plasmablast B cell subsets (by flow cytometry) in blood at Months 3, 12, 18 and 24, time to clinical remission, time to relapse, and incidence of serious adverse events. Exploratory biomarker assessments include assessment of B cell receptor clonality, B cell and T cell functional assays, whole blood transcriptomic analysis and urinary lymphocyte and proteomic analysis. Inguinal lymph node and nasal mucosal biopsies have been performed on a subgroup of patients at baseline and Month 3.
Discussion. This experimental medicine study provides a unique opportunity to gain detailed insights into the immunological mechanisms of belimumab-rituximab sequential therapy across multiple body compartments in the setting of AAV. Trial status. The final patient was recruited in March 2021. Last subject last visit will be March 2023.
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03967925, May 30, 2019.
Barrier identification and implementation strategy integration in the guidelines of optimal postpartum care for advanced maternal age in China: a study based on the CFIR-ERIC implementation strategy matching tool
Authors: Deng Bo , Yang Kezhou , Wang Yan , Li Yan , Hu Yali , Liu Ning
Published: November 2022

Background
Due to advanced maternal age facing great risks of fertility, such as gestational hypertension, postpartum haemorrhage, miscarriage, etc., we must attach importance to postpartum care. Guidelines for optimal postpartum care are available. It is of great significance to identify potential barriers and tailor practical implementation strategies before implementing the guidelines. The purpose of this study aimed to use the implementation science methods to develop implementation strategies that could promote the implementation of postpartum care guidelines in clinical practice.
Methods
Purposive sampling was used to recruit 13 obstetric nurses who had previously participated in the implementation of the postnatal care guidelines for semi-structured interviews. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) of 39 structures guided us in collecting and analysing interview data to identify barriers. We then determined implementation strategies by using Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research–Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (CFIR-ERIC) Implementation Strategy Matching Tool and taking into account the local context.
Results
The interview content was categorized, coded, and explained, and finally ten barriers were identified, including Evidence Strength & Quality, Complexity, Patient Needs & Resources, Compatibility, Structural Characteristics, Access to knowledge and information, Learning Climate, Knowledge & Beliefs about the Intervention, Self-efficacy, Key Stakeholders. Under the guidance of the CFIR-ERIC Implementation Strategy Matching Tool, some implementation strategies were developed to address these barriers for clinical nurses and the needs of patients and their families, which include conducting educational meetings, developing educational materials for nurses and patients, obtaining feedback from women and their families to meet their needs, rationalize implementation time, improve clinical assessment tools, streamline guideline-based workflows.
Conclusion
We can apply the CFIR-ERIC Implementation Strategy Matching Tool to select the best implementation strategies to address the barriers based on CFIR and promote the implementation of optimal postpartum care guidelines for advanced maternal age.
The quandary of detecting the signature of climate change in Antarctica
Authors: Casado Mathieu , Hébert Raphaël , Faranda Davide , Landais Amaelle
Published: November 2022

The current global warming driven by human activities has been accentuated in Polar Regions due to the polar amplification, resulting in large releases of ice that have impacts on circulation and sea level at the global scale. In the Arctic, the temperature has increased at three times the global rate, and lead to significant melt of the Greenland ice sheet and sea ice decline. Yet, for Antarctica, the impact of warming is still poorly constrained given the lack of instrumental data and the large decadal climate variability. Using a compilation of 78 ice core records, we provide a high-resolution reconstruction of past temperatures over the last 1000 years for seven regions of Antarctica and direct evidence of Antarctic polar amplification at regional and continental scales. We also show that both the natural and forced variability are not captured by pseudo-proxy experiments using the CMIP5 and 6 ensembles. This that the feedback loops causing the polar amplification are not properly taken into account, leading to an underestimation of the magnitude of anthropogenic warming and its consequences in Antarctica.
Targeting NRAS via miR-1304-5p or farnesyltransferase inhibition confers collateral sensitivity to ALK inhibitors in high-risk neuroblastoma
Authors: Pucci Perla , Lee Liam , Han Miaojun , Matthews Jamie , Jahangiri Leila , Manners Eleanor , Sorby-Adams Annabel , Schlederer Michaela , Kaggie Joshua , Trigg Ricky , Prokoph Nina , Ducray Stephen , Merkel Olaf , Rifatbegovic Firkret , Luo Ji , Taschner-Mandl Sabine , Kenner Lukas , Burke Gladstone , Turner Suzanne
Published: November 2022

Targeting Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) is a promising therapeutic strategy for aberrant ALK-expressing malignancies including neuroblastoma (NB), but resistance to ALK inhibitors (ALK TKI) is a distinct possibility necessitating drug combination therapeutic approaches. Using high-throughput, genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screens, we identify miR-1304-5p loss as a desensitizer to ALK TKIs in aberrant ALK-expressing NB; inhibition of miR-1304-5p decreased, while mimics increased the sensitivity of NB cells to ALK TKIs. We show that miR-1304-5p targets NRAS, decreasing cell viability via induction of apoptosis. It follows that the farnesyltransferase inhibitor (FTI) lonafarnib in addition to ALK TKIs act synergistically in NB, inducing apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. In particular, on combined treatment of NB patient derived xenografts with an FTI and an ALK TKI complete regression of tumour growth was observed although tumours rapidly regrew on cessation of therapy. Overall, our data suggests that combined use of ALK TKIs and FTIs, constitutes a therapeutic approach to treat high risk NB although prolonged therapy is likely required to prevent relapse, rendering high-risk NB a chronic rather than a lethal disease.
High rates of alkaline phosphatase activity in an equatorial coral reef ecosystem unrelated to seasonal nutrient dynamics
Authors: Nichols Robert S. , Moynihan Molly A. , Martin Patrick
Published: November 2022

Coral reef productivity depends on fast nutrient cycling, mediated largely by enzymatic breakdown of organic matter. Alkaline phosphatases hydrolyse phosphomonoesters and are one of the key enzymes involved in marine phosphorus cycling. They are expressed by a plethora of marine organisms including both planktonic microbes and metazoans such as corals, often in response to phosphate limitation, and are potentially important for coral P nutrition and reef biogeochemical cycling. However, most alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) data are from open-ocean environments, and the rates and drivers of APA in coastal waters are not well understood. Here, we measured APA both in the water column and associated with three coral species at reefs in Singapore, where the monsoonal ocean current reversal creates strong seasonal changes in dissolved nutrient availability. Water column APA was consistently high, averaging 9 ± 10 nmol l-1 h-1, but was not correlated with dissolved phosphate or other biogeochemical parameters. Experimental phosphate addition did not reduce seawater APA but addition of labile organic carbon did increase seawater APA, indicating that the increase in APA was driven by heterotrophic activity rather than phosphate stress. Coral APA ranged from 12–163 µmol m-2 h-1 depending on species and was equivalent to the APA in several meters of overlying water. While most coral APA was associated with the coral holobiont rather than the coral mucus, corals released 12 – 55 µmol h-1 per m2 of mucus-associated APA into the water column, which is potentially significant for water column DOP cycling.
Therapeutic Effect of Combined Therapy of Tui-na and Oral Chinese Medicine on Osteoarthritis of Knee – a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chan Kin Ho , Ching Jessica YL , Chan Kam Leung , Lau Hoi Yi , Chu Ka Man , Chan Kenny , Pang Hon Fai , Wong Lok Chi , Chia Chon Pin , Song Tianhe , Leung Sin Bond , Ng Bacon Fung Leung , Lin Zhixiu
Published: November 2022

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative joint condition that causes disability and pain in the elderly population. The prevalence of KOA among persons aged 63 or above is approximately 30%. Previous studies have reported the positive effect of Tui-na treatment and the Chinese herbal formula Du-Huo-Ji-Sheng Decoction (DHJSD) for KOA treatment. However, the therapeutic effects of the combination of these two methods are unknown. The current study aims to evaluate the therapeutic effect of the combined therapy of Tui-na and oral administration of DHJSD on KOA using a randomized controlled design.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, randomized, wait-list controlled clinical trial. Seventy study subjects with KOA were randomly assigned to the treatment and wait-list control groups in a 1:1 ratio. Both the treatment and wait-list control groups received eight sessions of Tui-na manipulation for 4 weeks. The DHJSD were given to the study subjects in the treatment group, but not the wait-list group. Outcomes were assessed using the WOMAC score and EQ-5D-5L, a health-related quality of life with 5-level EQ-5D version.

Results

The analysis of WOMAC scores and EQ-5D-5L in both groups showed statistically significant improvement with time. The mean WOMAC Pain subscale score was significantly lower in the treatment group than in the wait-list control group at week 8 follow up (P = 0.048). The mean WOMAC Stiffness subscale score was significantly lower in the treatment group than in the wait-list control group at week 2 and week 8 follow up (P = 0.035 and 0.008). The mean EQ-5D index value was significantly improved in the treatment group than in the wait-list control group at week 2 (P = 0.022). No significant adverse effects were found during the trial.

Conclusion

Combined Tui-na and the herbal medication were effective in relieving pain and improving stiffness as well as quality of life (QOL) in patients with KOA. The combined treatment was generally safe and well tolerated.

Trial registration

The study was registered at the ClinicalTrials.gov (website: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04492670, registry number: NCT04492670), registered on 30 July 2020.
Prevalence of depression and anxiety among elderly primary care patients in Palestine
Authors: Maraqa Bessan , Nazzal Zaher , alutt barlant , rishmawi ekram , hamshari suha
Published: November 2022

Background: Depression and anxiety are common mental health disorders among the elderly worldwide. In this study, we estimated the prevalence of depression and anxiety and related risk factor among elderly attending PHC centers in Palestine.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample size of 380 participants aged ≥60 attending PHC centers in West Bank, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. We used the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 and the Geriatric Anxiety Scale to screen for depression and anxiety, respectively.We analyzed data using descriptive and analytical statistics and employed logistic regression model to identify predictors of depression and anxiety.
Results: The prevalence of depression and anxiety was 41.1% and 39.2%, respectively. Eldely people living in rural areas (aOR 2.6, 95%CI: 1.7-4.2), uneducated (aOR 2.9, 95%CI: 1.4-6.1), and without monthly income (aOR 3.4, 95%CI: 1.5-7.6) were more likely to have depression. On the other hand, anxiety is independently assosciated with living in rural areas (aOR 1.9, 95%CI: 1.2-3.0) and having non-communicable diseases (aOR 2.0, 95%CI: 1.1-3.5).
Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are common in Palestine, a developing country with a lack of elderly-related services. This should be emphasized at the national and regional levels where geriatric health care services are scarce. Such information is required by policymakers and external funding agencies in order to develop future agendas