bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parecoxib alleviates the inflammatory effect of leukocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma in normal rabbit tendons
Authors: Zhou Ming , Wang Ning , Wang Gang , Jia Zishan , Qi Xiaolei
Published: October 2020

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is widely used to treat tendon injuries. Its therapeutic effect varies depending on the different cell components, and white blood cells (WBCs) may play an important role in this phenomenon. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how PRP with different concentrations of WBCs affect normal rabbit tendon and assess whether non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can suppress the catabolic effects of WBCs. Methods: Sixteen adult New Zealand White rabbits were used. Blood samples were collected from each rabbit, and PRP was extracted following two different protocols to obtain leukocyte-poor PRP (LP-PRP) and leukocyte-rich PRP (LR-PRP). LP-PRP or LR-PRP was injected into the patellar tendon of each rabbit, while normal saline (NS) was injected as control. In LR-PRP + NSAID group, Parecoxib was administered after LR-PRP injection. For each group, 2 rabbits were euthanatized at day 5 and 14. The patellar tendons were collected and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. A semi-quantitative approach was used to assess the inflammatory response and tendon destruction based on the evaluation of the WBCs, vascularization, fiber structure, and fibrosis. Results: The LR-PRP group exhibited a higher total tendon score than the LP-PRP group at day 5 after PRP injection, but there was no significant difference between the two groups at day 14. For the NSAID group, the tendon score was lower than that of the LR-PRP group both at day 5 and 14. Conclusion: LR-PRP can promote a higher inflammatory response than LP-PRP in the normal rabbit patellar tendon, and this effect can be suppressed by NSAIDs.
IL6/sIL6R REGULATES TNFα-INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE IN SYNOVIAL FIBROBLASTS THROUGH MODULATION OF TRANSCRIPTIONAL AND POST-TRANSCRIPTIONAL MECHANISMS
Authors: Valin Alvaro , Rey Manuel J. Del , Municio Cristina , Usategui Alicia , Romero Marina , Fernández-Felipe Jesús , Cañete Juan D. , Blanco Francisco J. , Ruano Yolanda , Criado Gabriel , Pablos José L.
Published: October 2020

Introduction: The clinical efficacy of specific interleukin-6 inhibitors has confirmed the central role of IL6 in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However the local role of IL6, in particular in synovial fibroblasts (SF) as a direct cellular target to IL6/sIL6R signal is not well characterized. The purpose of the study was to characterize the crosstalk between TNFα and IL6/sIL6R signaling to the effector pro-inflammatory response of SF.
Methods: SF lines were stimulated with either TNFα, IL6/sIL6R, or both together, for the time and dose indicated for each experiment, and where indicated, cells were treated with inhibitors actinomycin D, adalimumab, ruxolitinib and cycloheximide. mRNA expression of cytokines, chemokines and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR. Level of IL8/CXCL8 and CCL8 in culture supernatants was measured by ELISA. Mononuclear and polymorphonuclear cells migration assays were assessed by transwell using conditioned medium from SF cultures. Statistical analyses were performed as indicated in the corresponding figure legends and a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The stimulation of SF with IL6/sIL6R and TNFa, cooperatively promotes the expression of mono- and lymphocytic chemokines such as IL6, CCL8 and CCL2, as well as matrix degrading enzymes such as MMP1, while inhibiting the induction of central neutrophil chemokines such as IL8/CXCL8. These changes in the pattern of chemokines expression resulted in reduced polymorphonuclear (PMN) and increased mononuclear cells (MNC) chemoattraction by SF. Mechanistic analyses of the temporal expression of genes demonstrated that the cooperative regulation mediated by these two factors is mostly induced through de novo transcriptional mechanisms activated by IL6/sIL6R. Furthermore, we also demonstrate that TNFα and IL6/sIL6R cooperation is partially mediated by the expression of secondary factors signaling through JAK/STAT pathways.
Conclusions: These results point out to a highly orchestrated response to IL6 in TNFα-induced SF and provide additional insights into the role of IL6/sIL6R in the context of RA, highlighting the contribution of IL6/sIL6R to the interplay of SF with other inflammatory cells.
Dynamic changes of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio predicts breast cancer prognosis
Authors: Kim Ju-Yeon , Jung Eun Jung , Kim Jae-Myung , Lee Han Shin , Kwag Seung-Jin , Park Ji-Ho , Park Taejin , Jeong Sang-Ho , Jeong Chi-Young , Ju Young-Tae
Published: October 2020

Background: We aimed to determine whether neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are more useful predictors after initial intention to treat than at the time of diagnosis.Methods: We collected the medical records of 533 patients. The results of the peripheral blood sampling before the primary treatments were labeled as initial cohort, and those obtained between 24 and 36 months after initial treatment were defined as the 2nd cohort. Delayed metastasis has been defined as distant metastasis 2 years after treatment, and survival outcome was estimated and compared across groups.Results: Median follow-up duration was 74 months (24–162 months), and 53 patients experienced delayed metastasis. In univariate analysis, metastasis-free survival, patient age at diagnosis, tumor size, lymph node metastasis, HER-2 status, initial NLR and PLR, and 2nd NLR and PLR were found to be significantly associated with delayed metastasis. However, in multivariate analysis, only the 2nd NLR and PLR were found to be significantly associated with delayed metastasis, excluding initial NLR and PLR. Metastasis-free survival was analyzed through the pattern changes of NLR or PLR. The results revealed that patients with continued low NLR and PLR values at pre- and post-treatment (low initial values and 2nd values) showed a significantly better prognosis than those with a change in value or continued high NLR and PLR.Conclusions: We identified that patients with persistent high NLR and PLR after initial treatment have significant worse prognosis in terms of late metastasis. Therefore, these results suggest that NLR and PLR are more useful in predicting prognosis post-treatment.
Better muscle strength can decrease the risk of arthralgia and back &joint stiffness in Kurdish men; a cross-sectional study using data from RaNCD cohort study
Authors: Pasdar Yahya , Hamzeh Behrooz , Moradi Shima , Cheshmeh Sahar , Najafi Farid , Moradinazar Mehdi , Shamsi Mohammadbagher , Shakiba Ebrahim
Published: October 2020

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders can reduce the quality of life and work capacity. The study assessed handgrip strength (HGS) in relation to low back pain and arthralgia in Kurdish men. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using data from Ravansar non-communicable diseases (RaNCD) cohort study on 2164 men aged 35-65 years. HGS was measured using a hand-held hydraulic handgrip dynamometer. Low back pain, arthralgia, and joint stiffness were evaluated by the RaNCD cohort study physician using a standard questionnaire. Results: The results showed that 21.39% and 24.58% of studied participants had low back pain and arthralgia, respectively. Among the participants with low back pain, 14.5% had back stiffness, and among those with arthralgia, 12.8% had joint stiffness. The mean of HGS in participants with arthralgia and back & joint stiffness was significantly less than those without these disorders (P<0.001, P=0.05, and P= 0.005, respectively). Multiple-adjusted OR and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for arthralgia and back and joint stiffness across muscle strength showed the HGS increase to be associated with a lower risk of arthralgia and back &joint stiffness, but not low back pain. Conclusions: Higher HGS was associated with a lower risk of arthralgia and back & joint stiffness. However, there was no association between HGS and low back pain. Exercise and adherence to proper nutrition are suggested to enhance muscle strength in order to reduce musculoskeletal pain.
Ceramic bricks containing Ni ions from contaminated biomass used as an adsorbent
Authors: Simón Daiana , Quaranta Nancy , Gass Sebastián , Procaccini Raúl , Cristóbal Adrián
Published: October 2020

This article shows how pine sawdust residues can be used to adsorb nickel ions from synthetic solutions and then to produce porous bricks for civil construction using a mixture of natural clay and biomass containing the adsorbed metals. The adsorption tests were performed by mixing NiCl2 solutions with pine sawdust during a fixed stirring period of 24 h. The set was filtered and the filtrate was analysed. Highest efficiency adsorbate/adsorbent ratio was 50 mL of 1 M NiCl2 solution and 20 g L-1 of pine sawdust. This was the contaminated biomass sample used in the manufacture of the bricks. This paper analyses the properties of the bricks achieved and compares them with bricks without added biomass, porous bricks containing zinc and commercial bricks. The obtained values ​​of bulk density, apparent specific weight, apparent porosity, water absorption, apparent volume, weight loss on ignition, compressive strength, flexural modulus of rupture and efficiency retention of metal in the brick, demonstrate that the ceramic pieces obtained are optimal for construction.
Soil inoculation of Trichoderma asperellum M45a regulates rhizosphere microbes and triggers watermelon resistance to Fusarium wilt
Authors: zhang yi , Tian Cheng , Xiao Jiling , Wei Lin , Tian Yun , Liang Zhihuai
Published: October 2020

Fusarium wilt (FW) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (FON) is a soil-borne disease that seriously limits watermelon production. In the present study, the Trichoderma asperellum ( T. asperellum ) M45a was shown to be an effective biocontrol agent against Fusarium wilt (FW). In a pot experiment, the application of 10 5 cfu/g of T. asperellum M45a granules had better control effect on FW at the blooming period (up to 67.44%) from soils subjected to five years of continuous cropping with watermelon, while the average length of watermelon vine was also significantly improved(P<0.05). Additionally, the acid phosphatase (ACP), cellulase (CL), catalase (CAT) and sucrase (SC) activities in the M45a-inoculation group were significantly higher than in the control (CK) group, and the soil nutrients (total N, NO3-N, and available P) transformation was significantly increased. Moreover, T. asperellum M45a inoculation reduced fungal diversity and increased bacterial diversity, especially enhancing the relative abundance of PGPR (plant growth promoting rhizobacteria), such as Trichoderma, Sphingomonas , Pseudomonas , Actinomadura and Rhodanobacter . Through functional prediction, the relative abundance of Ectomycorrhizal, Endophyte, Animal pathotroph and saprotroph in fungal community was determined to be significantly lower than observed in the M45a-treated soil. Correlation analysis revealed that Sphingomonas , Pseudomonas and Trichoderma had the most differences in microorganisms abundance, positively correlated with ACP, CL, CAT and SC. These findings will provide ecological fungicide advice for microecological control of FW in continuous cropping watermelon.
Evaluation of Metadata Describing Topographic Maps in a National Library
Authors: Kuzma Marta , Moscicka Albina
Published: October 2020

Nowadays, map users come from a diverse disciplines and use maps for different purposes, but they all are confronted with the same task: finding the maps they need. Searching systems, used by museums or archives collecting maps, rely on metadata. However, the scope and method of saving map data in metadata are not often connected with the way in which users search for maps and therefore they are often unable to find the maps necessary for their research. Moreover, the ways of describing maps in metadata are different in each institution, what hinders the interoperability and wide using of data. In this context, the key questions are: what scope of metadata can provide a proper description of maps and how to evaluate if metadata from concerned institution fulfill these needs and give user the chance to find necessary maps. Therefore, the aim of our research was to evaluate topographic maps metadata in the context of the possibility to evaluate their usability of specific users’ needs in the National Library of Poland (NLP. The area of interest are topographic maps because they are the most heavily used for research and other purposes. To assess metadata for the purposes of evaluating the usability of topographic maps, a two-stage procedure was used. It covers the evaluation of topographic maps metadata, followed by their assessment in terms of whether maps found on their basis might be useful in our research. The research was carried out on 35,092 topographic maps issued in the years 1608-2017, in scales ranging from 1:10,000 to 1:500,000 from the National Library of Poland. These maps mainly cover the current territories of Poland, Belarus, Germany, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Lithuania, and Russia. The conducted analysis of topographic maps in the National Library of Poland revealed that the collected data are very interesting and match the users’ needs.
Periodic injections of adipose-derived stem cell sheets attenuate osteoarthritis progression in an experimental rabbit model
Authors: Takagi Tomoharu , Kabata Tamon , Hayashi Katsuhiro , Fang Xiang , Kajino Yoshitomo , Inoue Daisuke , Ohmori Takaaki , Ueno Takuro , Yoshitani Junya , Ueoka Ken , Yamamuro Yuki , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki
Published: October 2020

Background: Subcutaneous adipose tissue represents an abundant source of multipotent adult stem cells named as Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). With a cell sheet approach, ADSCs survive longer, and can be delivered in large quantities. We investigated whether intra-articular ADSC sheets attenuated osteoarthritis (OA) progression in a rabbit anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) model.Methods: Fabricating medium containing ascorbate-2-phosphate was used to enhance collagen protein secretion by the ADSCs to make ADSC sheets. At 4 weeks after ACLT, autologous ADSC sheets were injected intra-articularly into the right knee (ADSC sheets group), and autologous cell death sheets treated by liquid nitrogen were injected into the left knee (control group). Subsequent injections were administered once weekly. Femoral condyles were compared macroscopically and histologically.Results: Macroscopically, OA progression was significantly milder in the ADSC sheets than in the control groups. Histologically, control knees showed obvious erosions in the medial and lateral condyles, while cartilage was retained predominantly in the ADSC sheets group. Immunohistochemically, MMP-1, MMP-13, ADAMTS-4 were less expressive in the ADSC sheets than in the control groups.Conclusions: Periodic ADSC sheets injections inhibited articular cartilage degeneration without inducing any adverse effects. A large quantity of autologous ADSCs delivered by cell sheets homed to the synovium and protected chondrocytes.
Risk areas for tuberculosis among children and their inequalities in a city from Southeast Brazil.
Authors: Alves Yan Mathias , Berra Thais Zamboni , Alves Luana Seles , de Assis Ivaneliza Simionato , Arcoverde Marcos Augusto Moraes , Ramos Antônio Carlos Vieira , Arroyo Luiz Henrique , Campoy Laura Terenciani , Bruce Alexandre Tadashi Inomata , Santos Felipe Lima dos , Souza Ludmilla Leidianne Limírio , Crispim Juliane de Almeida , Arcêncio Ricardo Alexandre
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The objective of the study was to identify areas of risk for the appearance of tuberculosis in children and their association with social inequalities in a municipality in southeastern Brazil.

METHODS

Ecological study conducted in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. To identify areas of spatial risk for tuberculosis in children, we used spatial scanning statistics. To analyze the association of cases of childhood tuberculosis with social vulnerability, we used the Social Vulnerability Index of São Paulo, and four explanatory statistical models were listed.

RESULTS

There were 96 cases of childhood tuberculosis, of which 90 were geocoded through a process of converting addresses to geographic coordinates. A risk area was identified in the municipality, where children under 15 years old have 3.14 times greater risk of contracting tuberculosis than those living outside this area. The variables identified as risk factors were: number of private and collective households, proportion of children aged 0 to 5 years in the population, proportion of households without per capita income, and the proportion of private households with monthly nominal incomes of up to one quarter of wage minimums. The variables identified as protection factors were the proportion of women under the age of 30 years responsible for the household under and women responsible for the household with an average income over BRL 2,344.

CONCLUSION

The study showed areas of risk for the occurrence of tuberculosis in children. The study is in line with the End TB Strategy and the 2030 Agenda, which aim to support strategic actions and, therefore, save the lives of children through the systematic, intensified, and comprehensive identification of children with tuberculosis respiratory symptoms in the community.
Differences between encoding and retrieval failure in mild cognitive impairment: results from quantitative electroencephalography and magnetic resonance volumetry
Authors: Han Su-Hyun , Pyun Jungmin , Yeo Soeun , Kang Dong Won , Jeong Ho Tae , Kang Seung Wan , Kim SangYun , Youn Young Chul
Published: October 2020

Background: The memory impairments in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can be classified into encoding (EF) and retrieval (RF) failure, which can be affected by underlying pathomechanism. We explored the differences structurally and functionally.Methods: We compared quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) power spectra and connectivity between 87 MCI patients with EF and 78 MCI with RF using iSyncBrain ™ (iMediSync, Inc., Korea) (https://isyncbrain.com/). Voxel-based morphometric analysis of the gray matter (GM) in the MCI groups and 71 cognitive normal controls were also done using the Computational Anatomy Toolbox 12 (http://www.neuro.uni-jena.de/cat/).Results: qEEG showed higher frontal theta and lower beta2 band power, and higher theta connectivity in the EF. There was no statistically significant difference in GM volume between the EF and RF. However, when compared to normal control, GM volume reductions due to EF in the left thalamus and bilateral hippocampi and reductions due to RF in the left thalamus, right superior frontal lobe, right superior temporal lobe, and right middle cingulum were observed ( p < 0.05, family-wise error correction).Conclusions: MCI differs functionally and structurally according to their specific memory impairments. The EF findings are structurally and functionally more consistent with the prodromal Alzheimer's disease stage than the RF findings. Since this study is a cross-sectional study, prospective follow-up studies are needed to investigate whether different types of memory impairments can predict the underlying pathology of amnestic MCI. Additionally, insufficient sample size may lead to ambiguous statistical findings in direct comparisons, a larger patient cohort could more robustly identify differences in GM volume reductions between the EF and the RF group.
A retrospective case series of Fournier’s gangrene: necrotizing fasciitis in perineum and perianal region
Authors: Zhang Nan , Yu Xin , Zhang Kai , Liu Tongjun
Published: October 2020

Background To describe the clinical characteristics and management for Fournier’s gangrene. Experience summary and literature references are provided for future treatment improvement. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the cases diagnosed with Fournier’s gangrene in our department from June 2016 to June 2019. Clinical data, including manifestation, diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for Fournier’s gangrene were presented.Results There were 12 patients enrolled in this paper, with the average age of 60 years old. It showed a male predominance with male-to-female ratio of 6:1. The average of laboratory risk indicator for necrotizing fasciitis (LRINEC) score was 10.1. Diabetes mellitus was the main predisposing disease. 11 patients received emergency debridement and 1 patient died of sepsis on the 2nd day after admission. The mortality rate was 8.3%. 6 cases developed complications, including sepsis, pneumonia, renal and heart failure. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) was applied in 10 cases, while the rest 1 received normal daily dressing changes because of fecal contamination. Flaps were utilized in 2 patients to cover the defect, including one with advancement flap and one with pudendal-thigh flap, while others received secondary suture, secondary healing, skin graft or combined management. No relapse was observed during the follow-up visits.Conclusions Fournier’s gangrene is a life-threatening infection that requires early diagnosis and surgery intervention. The predisposing disease, clinical manifestation and LRINEC score should be taken into comprehensive consideration, which is helpful for timely diagnosis. Moreover, further successful treatment depends on the aggressive debridement, broad-spectrum antibiotics therapy, wound management and closure choice.
Long-term Experience with Triheptanoin in 12 Austrian Patients with Long-chain Fatty Acid Oxidation Disorders
Authors: Zöggeler Thomas , Stock Katharina , Jörg-Streller Monika , Spenger Johannes , Konstantopoulou Vassiliki , Hufgard-Leitner Miriam , Scholl-Bürgi Sabine , Karall Daniela
Published: October 2020

BackgroundLong-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (LC-FAOD) are a group of rare inborn errors of metabolism with autosomal recessive inheritance that may cause life-threatening events. Treatment with triheptanoin, a synthetic seven-carbon fatty acid triglyceride compound with an anaplerotic effect, seems beneficial, but clinical experience is limited. We report our long-term experience in an Austrian cohort of LC-FAOD patients.MethodsWe retrospectively assessed clinical outcome and total hospitalization days per year before and after start with triheptanoin by reviewing medical records of 12 Austrian LC-FAOD patientsResultsFor 12 Austrian LC-FAOD patients at three metabolic centers, triheptanoin was started shortly after birth in 3/12, and between 7.34 and 353.3 (median 44.5; mean 81.1) months of age in 9/12 patients. For 11 pediatric patients, mean duration of triheptanoin intake was 5.3 (median 3.9, range 1.2 to 15.7) years, 10/11 pediatric patients have an ongoing intake of triheptanoin. One patient quit therapy due to reported side effects. Total hospitalization days per year compared to before triheptanoin treatment decreased by 82.3% from 27.1 (range 11-65) days per year to 4.8 (range 0-13) days per year, and hospitalization days in the one year pre- compared to the one year post-triheptanoin decreased by 69.8% from 27.1 (range 4-75) days to 8.2 (range 0-25) days. All patients are in good clinical condition, show normal psychomotor development and no impairment in daily life activities.ConclusionIn this retrospective observational study in an Austrian LC-FAOD cohort, triheptanoin data show improvement in disease course. Triheptanoin appears to be a safe and beneficial treatment option in LC-FAOD. For further clarification, additional prospective randomized controlled trials are needed.
Fabrication and Performance of Atmospheric Plasma Sprayed Solid Oxide Fuel Cells with Liquid Antimony Anodes
Authors: Jiang Yidong , Mo Wenfei , Cao Tianyu , Shi Yixiang , Cai Ningsheng
Published: October 2020

A Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) with a liquid antimony anode (LAA) is a potential energy conversion technology for impurity-containing fuels. Atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) technology has become a promising LAA-SOFC preparation method because of its economy and convenience. In this paper, button SOFCs with different cathode materials and ratios of pore former were prepared by the APS method and measured at 750°C. The effect of the cathode structure on the electrochemical performance of the LAA-SOFCs was analyzed, and an optimized spraying method for LAA-SOFCs was developed. A tubular LAA-SOFC was prepared by the APS method based on the optimized spraying method and a peak power of 2.5 W was reached. The tubular cell was also measured at a constant current of 2 A for 20 hours and fed with a sulfur-containing fuel to demonstrate its impurity resistance and electrode stability.
Metabolomics analysis reveals Embden Meyerhof Parnas pathway activation and flavonoids accumulation during dormancy transition in tree peony
Authors: Zhang Tao , Yuan Yanchao , Zhan Yu , Cao Xinzhe , Liu Chunying , Zhang Yuxi , Gai Shupeng
Published: October 2020

Background: Bud dormancy is a sophisticated strategy which plants evolve to survive in tough environments. Endodormancy is a key obstacle for anti-season culture of tree peony, and sufficient chilling exposure is an effective method to promote dormancy release in perennial plants including tree peony. However, the mechanism of dormancy release is still poorly understood, and there are few systematic studies on the metabolomics during chilling induced dormancy transition.Results: The tree peony buds were treated with artificial chilling, and the metabolmics analysis was employed at five time points after 0-4ºC treatment for 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 d, respectively. A total of 535 metabolites were obtained and devided into 11 groups including flavonoids, amino acid and its derivatives, lipids, organic acids and its derivates, nucleotide and its derivates, alkaloids, hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives, carbohydrates and alcohols, phytohormones, coumarins and vitamins. Totally, 118 differential metabolites (VIP≥1, P<0.05) during chilling treatment process were detected, and their KEGG pathways involved in several metabolic pathways related to dormancy. Sucrose was the most abundant carbohydrate in peony bud. Starch was degradation and Embden Meyerhof Parnas (EMP) activity were increased during the dormancy release process, according to the variations of sugar contents, related enzyme activities and key genes expression. Flavonoids synthesis and accumulation were also promoted by prolonged chilling. Moreover, the variations of phytohormones (salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid, and indole-3-acetic acid) indicated they played different roles in dormancy transition.Conclusion: Our study suggested that starch degradation, EMP activation, and flavonoids accumulation were crucial and associated with bud dormancy transition in tree peony.
Adoption of water harvesting technologies among agro-pastoralists in semi-arid rangelands of South Eastern Kenya
Authors: Lutta Alphayo , Wasonga Oliver Vivian , Nyangito Moses , Sudan Falendra Kumar , Robinson Lance
Published: October 2020

Background: The arid and semi-arid lands experience inherently unpredictable rainfall and frequent droughts, which are exacerbated by climate change. This consequently leads to deterioration of land resources, and eventually forage and water shortages that negatively impact livestock productivity. In Kenya, development and governments agencies have been supporting on farm adaptation strategies such as water harvesting conservation structures to cope with climate hazards that affect agricultural production and food security in agro-pastoral and pastoral systems. The various water harvesting structures that have been promoted include Zai pits for growing crops and trees, water pans and shallow wells for livestock and domestic use, as well as irrigation. However, the impact of such interventions with regard to improvement of range productivity and therefore welfare of agro-pastoral and pastoral communities has not been felt owing to low adoption rate by households. Results: This study determined social, economic and institutional factors influencing the adoption of water harvesting technologies by households in pastoral areas of Tana river County of Kenya. The data was collected through household survey, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The results show that access to extension services and training, level of monthly income, main source of livelihood, land tenure, membership in social groups and availability of active farm labor significantly influenced the adoption of water harvesting structures. Conclusion: Pastoralists therefore need to be mobilized and trained on how to construct and use water harvesting structures and sensitized on the potential socioeconomic benefits of adopting them. Key words: Drylands, Water harvesting, Adaptive strategies, Pastoralism
Ovarian Cancer Cells Direct Monocyte Differentiation Through A Non-Canonical Pathway
Authors: Fogg Kaitlin C. , Miller Andrew E. , Li Ying , Flanigan Will , Walker Alyssa , O’Shea Andrea , Kendziorski Christina , Kreeger Pamela
Published: October 2020

Background: Alternatively-activated macrophages (AAMs), an anti-inflammatory macrophage subpopulation, have been implicated in the progression of high grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC). Increased levels of AAMs are correlated with poor HGSOC survival rates, and AAMs increase the attachment and spread of HGSOC cells in vitro. However, the mechanism by which monocytes in the HGSOC tumor microenvironment are differentiated and polarized to AAMs remains unknown. Methods: Using an in vitro co-culture device, we cultured naïve, primary human monocytes with a panel of five HGSOC cell lines over the course of seven days. An empirical Bayesian statistical method, EBSeq, was used to couple RNA-seq with observed monocyte-derived cell phenotype to explore which HGSOC-derived soluble factors supported differentiation to CD68+ macrophages and subsequent polarization towards CD163+ AAMs. Pathways of interest were interrogated using small molecule inhibitors, neutralizing antibodies, and CRISPR knockout cell lines.Results: HGSOC cell lines displayed a wide range of abilities to generate AAMs from naïve monocytes. Much of this variation appeared to result from differential ability to generate CD68+ macrophages, as most CD68+ cells were also CD163+. Differences in tumor cell potential to generate macrophages was not due to a MCSF-dependent mechanism, nor variance in established pro-AAM factors. TGFa was implicated as a potential signaling molecule produced by tumor cells that could induce macrophage differentiation, which was validated using a CRISPR knockout of TGFA in the OVCAR5 cell line.Conclusions: HGSOC production of TGFa drives monocytes to differentiate into macrophages, representing a central arm of the mechanism by which AAMs are generated in the tumor microenvironment.
Awareness of cognitive decline trajectories in asymptomatic individuals at risk for AD
Authors: Cacciamani Federica , Sambati Luisa , Houot Marion , Habert Marie-Odile , Dubois Bruno , Epelbaum Stephane
Published: October 2020

Background: Lack of awareness of cognitive decline (ACD) is common in late-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recent studies showed that ACD can also be reduced in the early stages.Methods: We described different trends of evolution of ACD over 3 years in a cohort of memory-complainers and their association to amyloid burden and brain metabolism. We studied the impact of ACD at baseline on cognitive scores’ evolution, and the association between longitudinal changes in ACD and in cognitive score.Results: 76.8% of subjects constantly had an accurate ACD (reference class). 18.95% showed a steadily heightened ACD, and were comparable to those with accurate ACD in terms of demographic characteristics and AD biomarkers. 4.25% constantly showed low ACD, had significantly higher amyloid burden than the reference class, and were mostly men. We found no overall effect of baseline ACD on cognitive scores’ evolution, and no association between longitudinal changes in ACD and in cognitive scores. Conclusions: ACD begins to decrease during the preclinical phase in a group of individuals, who are of great interest and need to be further characterised. Trial registration: The present study was conducted as part of the INSIGHT-PreAD study. The identification number of INSIGHT-PreAD study (ID-RCB) is 2012-A01731-42
Laboratory and microcosm experiments reveal contrasted adaptive responses to ammonia and water mineralisation in aquatic stages of the sibling species Anopheles gambiae s.s. and Anopheles coluzzii
Authors: AKPODIETE NWAMAKA OLUCHUKWU , TRIPET FREDERIC
Published: October 2020

Background The sibling species of the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae s.s and Anopheles coluzzii co-exist in many parts of West Africa and are thought to have recently diverged through a process of ecological speciation with gene flow. Divergent larval ecological adaptations, resulting in Genotype × Environment interactions have been proposed as important drivers of speciation in these species. In West Africa, An. coluzzii tends to be associated with permanent man-made larval habitats such as irrigated rice fields which are typically more eutrophic and mineral and ammonia-rich than the temporary rain pools exploited by An. gambiae s.s. Methods To highlight G×E interactions at the larval stage and their possible role in ecological speciation of these species, we first investigated the effect of exposure to ammonium hydroxide and water mineralisation on larval developmental success. Mosquito larvae were exposed to two water sources and increasing ammonia concentrations in small containers until adult emergence. In a second experiment, larval developmental success was compared across 2 contrasted microcosms to highlight G × E interactions under conditions like those found in the natural environment. Results The first experiment revealed significant G × E interactions in developmental success and phenotypic quality for both species in response to increasing ammonia concentrations and water mineralisation. The An. coluzzii strain outperformed the An. gambiae s.s. strain under limited conditions that were closer to more eutrophic habitats. The second experiment revealed divergent crisscrossing reaction norms in the developmental success of the sibling species in the two contrasted larval environments. As expected, An. coluzzii had higher emergence rates in the rice paddy environment with emerging adults of superior phenotypic quality compared to An. gambiae s.s, and vice versa in the rain puddle environment. Conclusions Evidence for such G x E interactions lends support to the hypothesis that divergent larval adaptations to the environmental conditions found in man-made habitats such as rice-fields in An. coluzzii may have been an important driver of its ecological speciation.
Evaluation of Earth System Model and Atmospheric Inversion using Total Column CO2 Observations from GOSAT and OCO-2
Authors: Patra Prabir K , Hajima Tomohiro , Saito Ryu , Chandra Naveen , Yoshida Yukio , Ichii Kazuhito , Kawamiya Michio , Kondo Masayuki , Ito Akihiko , Crisp David
Published: October 2020

The measurements of one of the major greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide (CO2), are being made using dedicated satellite remote sensing since the launch of the greenhouse gases observing satellite (GOSAT) by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in 2009 and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2). In the past 10 years, estimation of CO2 fluxes from land and ocean using the earth system models (ESMs) and inverse modelling of in situ atmospheric CO2 data have also made significant progress. In this article, we attempt, for the first time, to evaluate the CO2 fluxes simulated by an earth system model (MIROC-ES2L) using GOSAT observations and the fluxes estimated by an inverse model (MIROC4-Inv) for the period 2009-2014. Further, we use the OCO-2 measurements for testing the consistency of inversion results for the period 2014-2018, along with the GOSAT data. Both MIROC-ES2L and MIROC4-Inv fluxes are used in the MIROC4-atmospheric chemistry transport model (referred to as ACTM_ES2LF and ACTM_InvF, respectively) for calculating CO2 concentrations that are sampled at the time and location of the satellite measurements. Our results suggest the inverse model using in situ data are more consistent with the OCO-2 retrievals, compared to those of the GOSAT XCO2 data, suggesting possible improvements in the present GOSAT retrieval system by better accounting for the degradation correction of the Thermal And Near infrared Sensor for carbon Observations - Fourier Transform Spectrometer (TANSO-FTS). The ACTM_ES2LF simulation shows a slightly weaker seasonal cycle for the meridional profiles of CO2 fluxes, compared to that from the ACTM_InvF. This difference is revealed by greater XCO2 differences for ACTM_ES2LF vs GOSAT, compared to those of ACTM_InvF vs GOSAT. Using remote sensing based global products of leaf area index (LAI) and gross primary productivity (GPP) over land, we show a weaker sensitivity of MIROC-ES2L biospheric activities to the weather and climate in the tropical regions. Our results clearly suggest the usefulness of XCO2 measurements by satellite remote sensing for evaluation of large-scale ESMs, which so far remained untested by the sparse in situ data.
Eye-tracking-aided Characterization of Saccades and Antisaccades in SYNE1 Ataxia Patients – A Pilot Study
Authors: Szpisjak Laszlo , Szaraz Gabor , Salamon Andras , Nemeth Viola L. , Szepfalusi Noemi , Veres Gabor , Kincses Balint , Maroti Zoltan , Kalmar Tibor , Rydzanicz Malgorzata , Ploski Rafal , Klivenyi Peter , Zádori Dénes
Published: October 2020

BackgroundSYNE1 ataxia is an autosomal recessive hereditary condition, the main characteristic features of which are gait and limb ataxia and cerebellar dysarthria. Previous reports revealed that the clinical phenotype of SYNE1 ataxia is more complex than the first published cases with pure cerebellar signs. The aim of this study was to characterize the eye movement alterations of the first diagnosed Hungarian SYNE1 ataxia patients.ResultsSaccades and antisaccades were examined with eye tracker device in 3 SYNE1 (one patient has two frameshift mutations [c.8515_8516insA, p.Met2839Asnfs*53 and c.11594_11595insG, p.Glu3866*] in compound heterozygous state, whereas two subjects have a splicing variant [c.23146-2A>G] in homozygous state), 6 Friedreich ataxia (FA) patients and 12 healthy controls. Besides that, detailed clinical phenotyping and comprehensive neuropsychological assessment were implemented as well in all patients with ataxia.In addition to the characteristic cerebellar alterations, pyramidal signs and polyneuropathy were observed at least in 2 SYNE1 ataxia patients without any other underlying reason. The eye tracking assessment revealed hypometric saccades in the longer amplitude (18.4°) saccadic paradigm in all SYNE1 patients, whereas 2 out of 3 SYNE1 subjects performed slow saccades as well. In the antisaccade task, higher incorrect ratio of antisaccades were demonstrated in SYNE1 patients compared to healthy controls, showing inverse correlation with working memory test results. The corresponding data of FA patients dispersed in a wide range partially overlapping with control data.ConclusionsThe current study draws attention to the presence of eye movement disorders in patients with SYNE1 ataxia and demonstrates that alterations in the antisaccade paradigm may be related to working memory deficits.
Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy Curricula Among Arab Countries: An Evaluation of 191 Academic Institutions
Authors: Alghamdi Eman Ali , Albalawi Omar M. , Alshammari Thamir M.
Published: October 2020

BackgroundHealth outcomes and policies is a growing areas that is needed in the healthcare culture. This study aimed to examine the availability, extent and type of teaching curricula (pharmacoeconomics, pharmacoepidemiology, pharmacovigilance, patient safety) in Arab countries.Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted during the period of November 2019 to January 2020. The collection strategy was performed by listing of pharmacy colleges in each country and then reviewing the institutions’ websites that met the inclusion criteria. Five criteria were utilized to assess the availability of these courses: full-time mandatory , full-time elective, partial mandatory, partial elective, and not offered.Results One hundred ninety-one academic institutions were screened during the study period. Of those, 151 (79.1%) institutions were included in the study and their curricular descriptions were retrieved from their electronic websites. Pharmacoeconomics was the most taught subject among the four subjects. It was offered in 89/151 of the colleges among Arab countries. Among these 89 colleges that offered pharmacoeconomics, 74/89 offered it as a mandatory. While, Pharmacoepidemiology was offered in 51 colleges, with 44/51 offering the subject as a mandatory, and 6 out of those 44 list it as a full-time mandatory , while 38 out of those 44 offer it as a partially mandatory. Only 22 of the colleges offered pharmacovigilance, with 14/22 offering the subject as a mandatory. Finally, there was only one institution that offers the subject of patient safety. Moreover, most of the four courses investigated are only taught in the final two years of study.ConclusionsThe study found a clear shortcoming in the teaching pharmaceutical outcomes. More efforts are needed by academic institutions to review other institutions’ curricula to ensure they meet the work needs and advanced pharmacy practice transformation.
The Effect of Web-based Family-centered Empowerment Program in Preventing the Risk Factors of Substance Abuse in Students' Parents; Application of the Health Promotion Model
Authors: Mehri Seyed Mohsen , Hashemian Masoumeh , Joveini Hamid , Rakhshani Mohammad Hassan , Assarroudi Abdolghader , Aval Hamideh Ebrahimi
Published: October 2020

Background and aim: The age of onset of substance abuse among adolescents has recently decreased worldwide. Parents play an important role in preventing their children from drug abuse. This study aimed to investigate the effect of web-based family-centered empowerment program in preventing the risk factors of substance abuse in students' parents, using the health promotion model (HPM).Method: This interventional study was based on 118 parents of high school students in Sabzevar, Iran (2019). Multi-stage random sampling was used to divide the participants into the experimental (n=65) and control (n=65) groups. The data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire based on Pender's HPM. A website was designed to perform all stages of the study. The web-based educational intervention was performed for the experimental group. Both groups completed the questionnaires 2 months after the educational intervention. The data were analyzed using t-test, paired t-test, regression, correlation, and analysis of variance.Results: There was a significant difference between the scores of prior related behavior, perceived benefits of action, activity-related effect, situational influences, competitors, and commitment in the parents of the experimental group compared to the control group after the educational intervention (p-value <0.05). Moreover, a significant difference was observed between preventive behaviors of substance abuse and the mean score of perceived barriers to action, perceived self-efficacy, interpersonal influences, and role model in the parents of the experimental group compared to the control group after the educational intervention (p-value <0.05).Conclusion: Overall, designing an educational intervention based on the constructs of Pender's HPM could be an effective strategy for promoting preventive behaviors of substance abuse in parents.
Proportion of T Follicular Helper Cells in Peripheral Blood of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bemani Peyman , Eklund Kari K. , Ali‐Hassanzadeh Mohammad , Kabelitz Dieter , Schmidt Reinhold E. , Meri Seppo , Kalantar Kurosh
Published: October 2020

Objectives: Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells have critical roles in the development and promotion of humoral immune responses. Accumulating evidence points to alterations in the levels and activity of Tfh which may lead to impaired immune tolerance and development of antibody-mediated autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To elucidate the status of Tfh cells in patients with RA, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the proportion and types of Tfh cells in the PB of RA patients.Method: We systematically searched databases of Embase, Pubmed, Web of sciences (WOS), and Scopus to identify the eligible articles. We performed meta-analysis to assess the proportion of Tfh cells in PB of RA patients compared to healthy controls (HCs). We also assessed the proportion of Tfh cells based on different parameters including Tfh definition markers, disease activity status, disease stage, treatment status, serum markers, and the geographical location of the included articles. Results: Regardless of definition markers, the proportion of Tfh cells in RA patients was significantly higher than that in HCs (SMD 0.75, [0.56, 0.93], p<0.0001). Based on subgroup analyses, the proportion of Tfh cells with the individual definitions were also significantly higher in PB of RA patients compared to HCs. Tfh cells proportion in untreated-RA and early-RA patients was markedly greater than HCs, when comparisons were made without considering the definition markers, and also when Tfh cells was defined by the specified definition markers. While the proportion of Tfh cells by all definitions was significantly higher in active- and remission-RA compared to HCs, individual analysis of two definitions, CD4+CXCR5+ and CD4+CXCR5+ICOS+, didn’t show significant differences. In addition, higher proportion of Tfh cells defined by all definitions as well as a specified definition (CD4+CXCR5+PD-1high) was observed when S+RA and S-RA patients were compared to the HCs. Higher Tfh cells proportion in RA patients compared with HCs was observed in the Asian populations (SMD 0.89, [0.68, 1.09], p<0.0001), while there was a trend toward significant in the proportion of Tfh between the two groups in non-Asians (SMD 0.29, [-0.003, 0.59], p=0.052).Conclusion: Altogether, our results demonstrate that circulating Tfh are highly elevated in RA patients and are also significantly increased in untreated-, early- and S+-RA patients, underscoring the potential pathogenic role of this cell population in RA and its potential use as a biomarker and a target for RA therapy.