bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communicating about COVID-19 vaccine development and safety
Authors: Thorpe Alistair , Fagerlin Angela , Butler Jorie , Stevens Vanessa , Drews Frank A. , Shoemaker Holly , Riddoch Marian S. , Scherer Laura D.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Beliefs that the risks from a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh the risks from getting COVID-19 and concerns that the vaccine development process was rushed and lacking rigor have been identified as important drivers of hesitancy and refusal to get a COVID-19 vaccine. We tested whether messages designed to address these beliefs and concerns might promote intentions to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Method

We conducted an online survey fielded between March 8–23, 2021 with US Veteran (n= 688) and non-Veteran (n= 387) respondents. In a between-subjects experiment, respondents were randomly assigned to a control group (with no message) or to read one of two intervention messages: 1. a fact-box styled message comparing the risks of getting COVID-19 compared to the vaccine, and 2. a timeline styled message describing the development process of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines.

Results

Most respondents (60%) wanted a COVID-19 vaccine. However, 17% expressed hesitancy and 23% did not want to get a COVID-19 vaccine. The fact-box styled message and the timeline message did not significantly improve vaccination intentions,F(2,358) = 0.86,p= .425,ηP2= .005, or reduce the time respondents wanted to wait before getting vaccinated,F(2,306) = 0.79,p= .453,ηP2= .005, compared to no messages.

Discussion

In this experimental study, we did not find that providing messages about vaccine risks and the development process had an impact on respondents’ vaccine intentions. Further research is needed to identify how to effectively address concerns about the risks associated with COVID-19 vaccines and the development process and to understand additional factors that influence vaccine intentions.
Longitudinal electrophysiological changes after mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in a spinal cord injury rat model
Authors: Maeda Yuyo , Takeda Masaaki , Mitsuhara Takafumi , Okazaki Takahito , Shimizu Kiyoharu , Kuwabara Masashi , Hosogai Masahiro , Yuge Louis , Horie Nobutaka
Published: August 2022

Transcranial electrically stimulated motor-evoked potentials (tcMEPs) are widely used to evaluate motor function in humans and animals. However, the relationship between tcMEPs and the recovery of paralysis remains unclear. We previously reported that transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells to a spinal cord injury (SCI) rat model resulted in various degrees of recovery from paraplegia. As a continuation of this work, in the present study, we aimed to establish the longitudinal electrophysiological changes in this SCI rat model after mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. SCI rats were established using the weight-drop method. The model rats were transvenously transplanted with two types of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), one derived from rat cranial bones and the other from the bone marrow of the femur and tibia bone, 24 h after SCI. A phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) group that received only PBS was also created for comparison. The degree of paralysis was evaluated over 28 days using the Basso–Beattie–Bresnahan (BBB) scale and inclined plane task score. Extended tcMEPs were recorded using a previously reported bone-thinning technique, and the longitudinal electrophysiological changes in tcMEPs were investigated. In addition, the relationship between the time course of recovery from paralysis and reappearance of tcMEPs was revealed. The appearance of the tcMEP waveform was earlier in MSC-transplanted rats than in PBS-administered rats (earliest date was 7 days after SCI). The MEP waveforms also appeared at approximately the same level on the BBB scale (average score, 11 points). Ultimately, this study can help enhance our understanding of the relationship between neural regeneration and tcMEP recording. Further application of tcMEP in regenerative medicine research is expected.
A cognitive inquiry into similarities and differences between translation and paraphrase: Evidence from eye movement data
Authors: Ma Xingcheng , Han Tianyi , Li Dechao
Published: August 2022

Intralingual translation has long been peripheral to empirical studies of translation. Considering its many similarities with interlingual translation, also described as translation proper, we adopted eye-tracking technology to investigate the cognitive process during translation and paraphrase, an exemplification of intralingual translation. Twenty-four postgraduate students were required to perform four types of tasks (Chinese paraphrase, English-Chinese translation, English paraphrase, Chinese-English translation) for source texts (ST) of different genres. Their eye movements were recorded for analysis of the cognitive effort and attention distribution pattern. The result demonstrated that: (1) Translation elicited significantly greater cognitive efforts than paraphrase; (2) Differences between translation and paraphrase on cognitive effort were modulated by text genre and target language; (3) Translation and paraphrase did not differ strikingly in terms of attention distribution. This process-oriented study confirmed higher cognitive efforts in inter-lingual translation, which was likely due to the additional complexity of bilingual transfer. Moreover, it revealed significant modulating effects of text genre and target language.
The impact of the SARS COV-2 pandemic on pediatric accesses in ED: A Healthcare Emergency Information System analysis
Authors: Mataloni Francesca , Colais Paola , Pinnarelli Luigi , Fusco Danilo , Davoli Marina
Published: August 2022

Background

The Emergency Department (ED) services play a fundamental role in managing the accesses of potential Sars-Cov-2 cases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the SARS COV-2 pandemic on pediatric accesses in Emergency Department of Lazio Region.

Methods

The population includes all pediatric accesses (0–17 years) in the ED of Lazio Region during 2019 and 2020. Accesses were characterized by age, week and calendar period. Four periods were defined: pre-lockdown, lockdown, post-lockdown and the second wave. The trend of ED accesses (total or for specific cause) in 2020 (by period and week) were compared to them occurred in 2019. ED visits have been described by absolute frequency and percentage variation. Percentage variation of adult was also reported to compare the trend in adult and young population. The Chi-square test was used to compare characteristics of admissions in 2019 and 2020.

Results

There is a large decrease of pediatric accesses in 2020 compared to 2019 (-47%), especially for younger age-classes (1–2 years: -52.5% and 3–5 years: -50.5%). Pediatric visits to ED in 2020 decreased following the same trend of adults, but more drastically (-47% vs -30%). ED accesses for suspected COVID-19 pneumonia trend show different characteristics between children and adults: in adults there is an increase in 2020, especially during the 2nd wave period (+321%), in children there is a decrease starting from the lockdown period to the achievement of the lowest level in December 2020 (-98%).

Conclusions

This descriptive study has identified a decrease of total pediatric accesses in ED in 2020 compared to 2019 and a different trend of accesses by adult and young population especially by cause. The monitoring of paediatric accesses could be a useful tool to analyse the trend of COVID-19 pandemic in Italy and to reprogramming of the healthcare offer according to criteria of clinical and organizational appropriateness.
Adherence to Covid-19 mitigation measures and its associated factors among health care workers at referral hospitals in Amhara regional state of Ethiopia
Authors: Aemro Agazhe , Fentie Beletech , Wassie Mulugeta
Published: August 2022

Introduction

With fragile health care systems, sub-Saharan Africa countries like Ethiopia are facing a complex epidemic, and become difficult to control the noble coronavirus. The use of COVID-19 preventive measures is strongly recommended. This study aimed to assess the adherence of COVID-19 mitigation measures and associated factors among health care workers.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among health care workers at referral hospitals in the Amhara regional state of Ethiopia from May 15 to June 10; 2021. It was a web-based study using an online questionnaire. STATA 14.2 was used for data analysis. Variables with a p-value<0.05 at 95% confidence level in multivariable analysis were declared as statistically significant using binary logistic regression.

Result

Adherence to COVID-19 mitigation measures was 50.24% in the current study. The odd of adherence of participants with a monthly income of ≥12801birr was 15% whereas the odds of adherence of participants who hesitate to take the COVID 19 vaccine were 10% as compared to those who don’t hesitate. Participants who had undergone COVID-19 tests adhered 6.64 times more than their counterparts. Those who believe adequate measurements are taken by the government adhered 4.6 times more than those who believe not adequate. Participants who believe as no risk of severe disease adhered 16% compared to those with fear of severe disease. Presence of households aged >60years adhered about 7.9 times more than with no households aged>60. Participants suspected of COVID-19 diagnosis adhered 5.7 times more than those not suspected.

Conclusion

In this study, a significant proportion of healthcare workers did not adhere to COVID-19 mitigation measures. Hence, giving special attention to healthcare workers with a monthly income of ≥12801 birr, being hesitant towards COVID-19 vaccine, being aged 26–30, and perceiving no risk of developing a severe infection is crucial to reduce non-adherence.
Primary care utilization among telehealth users and non-users at a large urban public healthcare system
Authors: Chen Kevin , Zhang Christine , Gurley Alexandra , Akkem Shashi , Jackson Hannah
Published: August 2022

Telehealth services may improve access to care, but there are concerns around whether availability of telehealth may increase care utilization. We assessed whether usage of telehealth was associated with differential primary care utilization at a large, urban public healthcare system. Using electronic health record data from 23 primary care clinics, we categorized patients as telehealth users and non-users. Then, we compared the number of visits per patient between groups using Welch’s t-tests while stratifying by comorbidity count. We used multivariable Poisson regression to test for associations between telehealth usage and visit count while controlling for other demographic factors. Compared with telehealth non-users, telehealth users had approximately 1 more primary care visit per patient over the year regardless of comorbidity count or other patient characteristics. Availability of telehealth services may be associated with increased primary care utilization in a safety-net setting, though further research on outcomes, costs of care, and patient and clinician experiences is needed to better inform decisions regarding provision and reimbursement of telehealth services.
Comparing the effect of childbirth preparation courses delivered both in-person and via social media on pregnancy experience, fear of childbirth, birth preference and mode of birth in pregnant Iranian women: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Mousavi Seyedeh Robab , Amiri-Farahani Leila , Haghani Shima , Pezaro Sally
Published: August 2022

Background and aim

Rates of cesarean section in Iran are unnecessarily high largely due to fear of childbirth (FOC), yet this may be reduced through education. Iranian women are keen to obtain information about pregnancy and birth online though sources may not be reliable. Consequently, the present study aimed to compare the effect of childbirth preparation courses delivered both online via the social media platform ‘Telegram’ and in-person on pregnancy experience, FOC, birth preference, and mode of birth.

Methods

This quasi-experimental study included 165 primiparous pregnant women referred to the prenatal clinic in Tehran, Iran. Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants, who were subsequently divided into three groups; (A) social media-based educational intervention (n = 53); (B) in-person educational intervention (n = 52), and (C) a control group who received no prenatal education (n = 50). During the 18th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, demographic questions along with the pregnancy experience scale (PES), and version A of the Wijma delivery expectancy/experience questionnaire (WDEQ‑A) were completed. In the 36th and 38th weeks of pregnancy, the PES and WDEQ‑A questionnaires, as well as birth preference form were further completed. Mode of birth was recorded in the first few days of postpartum. The Fisher’s exact test, along with ANOVA and Chi-square tests were used to determine associations between variables. A paired t-test was used to examine within-group comparisons. The Kruskal–Wallis non-parametric test was used to investigate the intervening effect of economic status.

Results

Post intervention, the mean score of pregnancy experience and FOC did not differ significantly between the three groups. Also, 86.8% of participants in group A, 90.4% of participants in group B, and 62% of participants in the control group preferred to give birth vaginally, which was statistically significant (p = 0.001). Moreover, 66% of participants in group A, 61.5% of participants in group B, and 50% of participants in the control group ultimately gave birth vaginally. None of the participants in group A underwent an elective cesarean section, while this rate was 7.7% and 24% for groups B and control, respectively (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Despite the non-significant differences identified between the three groups in terms of pregnancy experience and FOC, prenatal education delivered via social media may be usefully offered to Iranian women keen to receive education flexibly online.

Trial registration

Name of the Registry: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. Trial registration number: IRCT20180427039436N2. Date of registration: 15/06/2018. URL of trial registry record: https://www.irct.ir/trial/30890.
Magnetic bioassembly platforms for establishing craniofacial exocrine gland organoids as aging in vitro models
Authors: Rodboon Teerapat , Souza Glauco R. , Mutirangura Apiwat , Ferreira Joao N.
Published: August 2022

A multitude of aging-related factors and systemic conditions can cause lacrimal gland (LG) or salivary gland (SG) hypofunction leading to degenerative dry eye disease (DED) or dry mouth syndrome, respectively. Currently, there are no effective regenerative therapies that can fully reverse such gland hypofunction due to the lack of reproducible in vitro aging models or organoids required to develop novel treatments for multi-omic profiling. Previously, our research group successful developed three-dimensional (3D) bioassembly nanotechnologies towards the generation of functional exocrine gland organoids via magnetic 3D bioprinting platforms (M3DB). To meet the needs of our aging Asian societies, a next step was taken to design consistent M3DB protocols to engineer LG and SG organoid models with aging molecular and pathological features. Herein, a feasible step-by-step protocol was provided for producing both LG and SG organoids using M3DB platforms. Such protocol provided reproducible outcomes with final organoid products resembling LG or SG native parenchymal epithelial tissues. Both acinar and ductal epithelial compartments were prominent (21 ± 4.32% versus 42 ± 6.72%, respectively), and could be clearly identified in these organoids. Meanwhile, these can be further developed into aging signature models by inducing cellular senescence via chemical mutagenesis. The generation of senescence-like organoids will be our ultimate milestone aiming towards high throughput applications for drug screening and discovery, and for gene therapy investigations to reverse aging.
Factors associated with mortality of the elderly due to ambulatory care sensitive conditions, between 2008 and 2018, in the Federal District, Brazil
Authors: Marques da Costa Geraldo , Niskier Sanchez Mauro , Eri Shimizu Helena
Published: August 2022

Introduction

In Brazil, the Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde, or SUS) provides health care, and an aging population overwhelms the system due to the greater vulnerability of the elderly. In the Federal District, two models of primary care coexist–the traditional primary care and the family health strategy. The present study aimed to analyze the factors associated with mortality of the elderly due to conditions sensitive to ambulatory care in the Federal District, Brazil.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study investigated all deaths that occurred in people over 60 years old between 2008 and 2018. The variables studied were age at death, sex, marital status, education, race/color, death by condition sensitive to ambulatory care, and population coverage of primary care services. The Urban Well-Being Index (UWBI) was used, which includes the dimensions: mobility, environmental and housing conditions, infrastructure, and collective services, to analyze issues related to the place where the senior citizen resides.

Results

The deaths 70,503 senior citizens were recorded during the study period. The factors associated with mortality in the elderly due to ambulatory care sensitive conditions were male, lower income, and less education. Residing in a place with poor UWBI presented a response gradient with higher mortality. Increased ambulatory care coverage was also associated with lower mortality.

Conclusions

The study evidenced an association between male gender, age, income, and education, and UWBI with lower mortality due to ambulatory care sensitive conditions, and these associations presented a response gradient. The study also found that increased coverage of the elderly population was associated with lower mortality from sensitive conditions.
Hesitancy and reactogenicity to mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines–Early experience with vaccine rollout in a multi-site healthcare system
Authors: Al-Obaydi Sarah , Hennrikus Eileen , Mohammad Nazar , Lehman Erik B. , Thakur Abhishek , Al-Shaikhly Taha
Published: August 2022

Background

Hesitancy and incomplete vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains an obstacle to achieving herd immunity. Because of fear of vaccine reactions, patients with medical and allergic co-morbidities express heightened hesitancy. Limited information is available to guide these patients. We sought to identify factors associated with mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines hesitancy and reactogenicity.

Methods

We surveyed employees of a multi-site health system in central Pennsylvania who were offered the COVID-19 vaccine (N = 18,740) inquiring about their experience with the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA-based vaccines. The survey was administered online using the REDCap platform. We used multivariable regression analysis to determine whether a particular factor(s) (e.g., demographics, selected co-morbid allergic and medical conditions, vaccine brand, and prior COVID-19) were associated with vaccine reactogenicity including the occurrence and severity of local and systemic reactions. We also explored factors and reasons associated with vaccine hesitancy.

Results

Of the 5709 who completed the survey (response rate, 30.4%), 369 (6.5%) did not receive the vaccine. Black race and allergy to other vaccines were associated with vaccine hesitancy. Reaction intensity following the first vaccine dose and allergic co-morbidities were associated with incomplete vaccination. Older individuals (>60 years) experienced less reactogenicity. Females had higher odds of local and systemic reactions and reported more severe reactions. Asians reported more severe reactions. As compared to Pfizer-BioNTech, the Moderna vaccine was associated with higher odds of vaccine reactions of higher severity. Prior COVID-19 resulted in more severe reactions following the first dose, but less severe reactions following the second dose.

Conclusions

Targeted campaigns to enhance vaccination acceptance should focus on Black individuals, females, and those with allergic co-morbidities. Prior COVID-19 caused more severe reactions after the first but not the second vaccine dose. Moderna vaccine caused more vaccine reactions. Lessons learned from the early rollout of COVID-19 vaccine may serve to inform future novel vaccine experiences.
Effectiveness of exercise intervention during pregnancy on high-risk women for gestational diabetes mellitus prevention: A meta-analysis of published RCTs
Authors: Tsironikos Georgios I. , Perivoliotis Konstantinos , Bargiota Alexandra , Zintzaras Elias , Doxani Chrysoula , Tatsioni Athina
Published: August 2022

Objective

We aimed at investigating the preventive role of exercise intervention during pregnancy, in high-risk women for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Materials and methods

We searched PubMed, CENTRAL, and Scopus for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated exercise interventions during pregnancy on women at high risk for GDM. Data were combined with random effects models. Between study heterogeneity (Cochran’s Q statistic) and the extent of study effects variability [I2 with 95% confidence interval (CI)] were estimated. Sensitivity analyses examined the effect of population, intervention, and study characteristics. We also evaluated the potential for publication bias.

Results

Among the 1,508 high-risk women who were analyzed in 9 RCTs, 374 (24.8%) [160 (21.4%) in intervention, and 214 (28.1%) in control group] developed GDM. Women who received exercise intervention during pregnancy were less likely to develop GDM compared to those who followed the standard prenatal care (OR 0.70, 95%CI 0.52, 0.93; P-value 0.02) [Q 10.08, P-value 0.26; I2 21% (95%CI 0, 62%]. Studies with low attrition bias also showed a similar result (OR 0.70, 95%CI 0.51, 0.97; P-value 0.03). A protective effect was also supported when analysis was limited to studies including women with low education level (OR 0.55; 95%CI 0.40, 0.74; P-value 0.0001); studies with exercise intervention duration more than 20 weeks (OR 0.54; 95%CI 0.40, 0.74; P-value 0.0007); and studies with a motivation component in the intervention (OR 0.69, 95%CI 0.50, 0.96; P-value 0.03). We could not exclude large variability in study effects because the upper limit of I2 confidence interval was higher than 50% for all analyses. There was no conclusive evidence for small study effects (P-value 0.31).

Conclusions

Our study might support a protective effect of exercise intervention during pregnancy for high-risk women to prevent GDM. The protective result should be corroborated by large, high quality RCTs.
Deletion of the Plasmodium falciparum exported protein PTP7 leads to Maurer’s clefts vesiculation, host cell remodeling defects, and loss of surface presentation of EMP1
Authors: Carmo Olivia M. S. , Shami Gerald J. , Cox Dezerae , Liu Boyin , Blanch Adam J. , Tiash Snigdha , Tilley Leann , Dixon Matthew W. A.
Published: August 2022

Presentation of the variant antigen, Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (EMP1), at knob-like protrusions on the surface of infected red blood cells, underpins the parasite’s pathogenicity. Here we describe a protein PF3D7_0301700 (PTP7), that functions at the nexus between the intermediate trafficking organelle, the Maurer’s cleft, and the infected red blood cell surface. Genetic disruption of PTP7 leads to accumulation of vesicles at the Maurer’s clefts, grossly aberrant knob morphology, and failure to deliver EMP1 to the red blood cell surface. We show that an expanded low complexity sequence in the C-terminal region of PTP7, identified only in the Laverania clade of Plasmodium, is critical for efficient virulence protein trafficking.
The TPR domain of PgaA is a multifunctional scaffold that binds PNAG and modulates PgaB-dependent polymer processing
Authors: Pfoh Roland , Subramanian Adithya S. , Huang Jingjing , Little Dustin J. , Forman Adam , DiFrancesco Benjamin R. , Balouchestani-Asli Negar , Kitova Elena N. , Klassen John S. , Pomès Régis , Nitz Mark , Howell P. Lynne
Published: August 2022

The synthesis of exopolysaccharides as biofilm matrix components by pathogens is a crucial factor for chronic infections and antibiotic resistance. Many periplasmic proteins involved in polymer processing and secretion in Gram-negative synthase dependent exopolysaccharide biosynthetic systems have been individually characterized. The operons responsible for the production of PNAG, alginate, cellulose and the Pel polysaccharide each contain a gene that encodes an outer membrane associated tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domain containing protein. While the TPR domain has been shown to bind other periplasmic proteins, the functional consequences of these interactions for the polymer remain poorly understood. Herein, we show that the C-terminal TPR region of PgaA interacts with the de-N-acetylase domain of PgaB, and increases its deacetylase activity. Additionally, we found that when the two proteins form a complex, the glycoside hydrolase activity of PgaB is also increased. To better understand structure-function relationships we determined the crystal structure of a stable TPR module, which has a conserved groove formed by three repeat motifs. Tryptophan quenching, mass spectrometry analysis and molecular dynamics simulation studies suggest that the crystallized TPR module can bind PNAG/dPNAG via its electronegative groove on the concave surface, and potentially guide the polymer through the periplasm towards the porin for export. Our results suggest a scaffolding role for the TPR domain that combines PNAG/dPNAG translocation with the modulation of its chemical structure by PgaB.
A lower bound for length of addition chains
Authors: Agama Theophilus
Published: August 2022

In this paper we show that the shortest length (n) of addition chains producing numbers of the form 2n−1 satisfies the lower boundι(2n−1)≥n+blog(n−1)log 2cwhereb·cdenotes the floor function
Reduced expression of the tumor necrosis factor gene in blood mononuclear cells in radiologically isolated syndrome – validation of transcriptome analysis results
Authors: Kozin M. S. , Baulina N. M. , Kiselev I. S. , Kabaeva A. R. , Boyko A. N. , Favorova O. O. , Kulakova O. G.
Published: August 2022

Radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) is a nosological form in which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals lesions of the white matter ofthe brain and/or spinal cord characteristic of multiple sclerosis (MS) in individuals in the absence of clinical symptoms of the disease. Amongthe studies devoted to RIS, the number of works aimed at studying the molecular mechanisms underlying its formation is very small. Previously,using next generation sequencing (NGS), we for the first time revealed significant differences in the expression profiles of several genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MNCs) of individuals with RIS and healthy controls.Objective:to conduct a validation analysis of changes in the expression of the CCR2, CX3CR1, and TNF genes that were observed during NGSin the MNCs of individuals with RIS compared with healthy individuals.Patients and methods.Analysis of the expression of the CCR2, CX3CR1, and TNF genes was performed on independent validation cohorts (inMNCs of 14 subjects with RIS and 14 without RIS) by reverse transcription followed by real-time PCR.Results and discussion.In MNCs of subjects with RIS, the TNF gene expression was significantly reduced compared to healthy controls(p=0.035; FC=0.78). No significant differences in expression levels were found for other genes.Conclusion.The obtained data shows that disturbances of TNF gene expression preceding the clinical manifestations of MS, at least in individuals with RIS, which can lead to further dysregulation of several processes.
Ways to improve adherence to long-term injection therapy in multiple sclerosis using the example of pegylated interferon-β1a (sampeginterferon β-1a)
Authors: Boyko A. N.
Published: August 2022

Patient adherence to therapy with multiple sclerosis disease-modifying treatments (MS DMTs) in many cases determine the effectiveness of therapy. The review discusses the reasons for low adherence to DMTs, ways to increase it. Among the most effective ways is to reduce the frequency of administration of the drug while maintaining its high efficiency. To illustrate this, the increase in adherence to treatment with interferon-β drugs due to pegylation is discussed. Without losing its effectiveness, sampeginterferon beta-1a (samPEG-IFN-β1a) administration reduces the frequency of local adverse reactions, partly due to reducing the frequency of injections, which contributes to higher adherence to the treatment.
Review of human interferons and the potential of their use in the complex therapy of a new coronavirus infection COVID-19
Authors: Granatov E. V. , Abashev A. R. , Khabirov F. A. , Dykhanov A. Ya. , Khaibullin T. I.
Published: August 2022

Interferons (IFNs) were first discovered over 60 years ago in a classic experiment by Isaacs and Lindenman showing that type I IFNs have antiviral activity. IFNs are widely used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, viral hepatitis B and C, and some forms of cancer. Preliminary clinical data support the efficacy of type I IFN against potential pandemic viruses such as Ebola and SARS. Nevertheless, more effective and specific drugs have found their place in the treatment of such diseases. As the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic is evolving, type I IFN is being re-discussed as one of the main pathogenic drugs, and initial clinical trials have shown promising results in reducing the severity and duration of COVID-19. Although SARS-CoV-2 inhibits the production of IFN-β and prevents a full innate immune response to this virus, it is sensitive to the antiviral activity of externally administered type I IFN. The review presents current data on the classification and mechanisms of action of IFN. Possible options for the optimal use of IFN in the fight against COVID-19 are discussed.
Fiscal Decentralization and Income Inequality: A Prediction Using the SEM Model
Authors: Roy Juliansyah , Wijaya Adi , Darma Dio Caisar , A Erwin Kurniawan
Published: August 2022

Economic development in a region is not only measured by the fiscal dimension andthe economic growth but also based on the income distribution. This study aims toanalyze the effect of fiscal decentralization on investment, economic growth, economicÂ structure, employment opportunities, and income inequality between districts/citiesÂ in East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. This study uses panel data (2013-2019) ofÂ the amalgamation of seven districts and three cities in East Kalimantan Province,Â analyzed using the Structural Equation Model (SEM). The findings show thatÂ regional tax plays a crucial role in enhancing regional investment, economic growth,Â and employment opportunities. It is also important for reducing the economicÂ structure imbalance and income inequality. Profit-sharing funds improve regionalÂ investment, economic growth, and employment opportunities. At the same time,Â special allocation increases employment opportunities and economic structureÂ imbalance. Furthermore, regional retribution increases employment opportunitiesÂ and reduces the economic structure imbalance, but it harms regional economicÂ growth. The practical implications offer solutions to the realization of local revenueÂ sources for economic development and alleviation of social problems, such asÂ employment opportunities and inequality in welfare.
Über die algebraische Stabilitätsanalyse parametrischer polynomialer Systeme mittels LaSalles Invarianzprinzip
Authors: Gerbet Daniel , Röbenack Klaus
Published: August 2022

Für lineare Systeme existiert eine Vielzahl von Stabilitätskriterien, mit denen ohne großen Aufwand die Stabilität überprüft werden kann. Der Stabilitätsbeweis gestaltet sich für nichtlineare Systeme dagegen deutlich schwieriger. Ein sehr leistungsfähiger Ansatz steht mit Lyapunovs zweiter Methode zur Verfügung, der von LaSalle verallgemeinert wurde, und nun als das Invarianzprinzip bekannt ist. Durch eine leichte Abschwächung der Aussage des Invarianzprinzips kann das Kriterium für eine geeignete Systemklasse mittels Methoden der algebraischen Geometrie überprüft und somit automatisiert werden. Dies erlaubt auch die Verwendung von Parametern im Ansatz der Lyapunov-Funktion oder des Systems, um beispielsweise einen Regler oder Beobachter zu parametrieren. In diesem Aufsatz werden die Methoden diskutiert und auf einige Beispiele angewandt.
Study on composting and seawater degradation properties of diethylene glycol-modified poly(butylene succinate) copolyesters
Authors: Liu Tian-yuan , Huang Dan , Xu Peng-Yuan , Lu Bo , Zhen Zhi-Chao , Zheng Wei-Zhen , Li Xiao , Wang Ge-Xia , Ji Junhui
Published: August 2022

The marine pollution caused by traditional plastics is becoming increasingly serious, and the fundamental way to solve this problem is to look for plastic substitutes that can degrade in the marine environment. Herein, a series of high-molecular-weight poly(butylene succinate-co-diethylene glycol succinate) (PBDS) was obtained by the introduction of low-cost diethylene glycol (DEG) into the main chain of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), which aimed to obtain the materials that can be degraded both in compost and seawater. The research showed that the increase in the DEG content reduced the crystallinity of the copolyester, which led to the decrease in mechanical strength and thermal properties of the copolyester to a certain extent. Meanwhile, the increase in hydrophilicity and the decrease in crystallinity improved the degradation rate of the material. Compared with PBS, PBDS exhibited not only a faster composting degradation rate but also a faster degradation rate in seawater.
Lipid nanodiscs of poly(styrene-alt-maleic acid) to enhance plant antioxidant extraction
Authors: Punyamoonwongsa Patchara
Published: August 2022

Plant antioxidants can be applied in the management of various human diseases. Despite these, extraction of these compounds still suffers from residual solvent impurities, low recovery yields, and the risks of undesirable chemical changes. Inspired by the protein–lipid interactions in the cell membranes, we proposed using poly(styrene-alt-maleic acid) (PSMA) to destabilize and associate with the bilayer lipids into the membrane-like nanodiscs. Such nanostructures could serve as protective reservoirs for the active compounds to reside with preserved bioactivities. This concept was demonstrated in the antioxidant extraction from robusta coffee leaves. Results indicated that aqueous PSMA extraction (no buffer agent) yielded products with the highest contents of phenolic acids (11.6 mg GAE·g−1) and flavonoids (9.6 mg CE·g−1). They also showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 3.7 µg·mL−1) compared to those obtained by typical sodium dodecyl sulfate and water extraction. This biomimetic approach could be considered for developing environmentally friendly extraction protocols in the future.
New insights into fluid mixing in micromixers with fractal wall structure
Authors: Wang Helin , Chen Xueye
Published: August 2022

Microfluidics is thought to have a high development potential and a wide range of applications in biomedical research. The design of micromixers has gotten a lot of attention because they are such a crucial aspect of microfluidic devices. The passive micromixer has the advantages of simple construction and steady performance over the active micromixer. In this paper, a fractal wall micromixer is proposed, and the flow characteristics and mixing process of the secondary fractal double wall micromixer are studied using intuitive flow patterns and quantitative calculation methods. The results show that the mixing efficiency of secondary fractal wall is higher than that of primary fractal wall, and with the increase of h, the mixing efficiency and pressure drop begin to decrease gradually. When there is a secondary fractal wall structure on both sides, when Reynolds number (Re) = 0.1, the mixing efficiency of the outlet can reach 95%, and when Re = 100, the mixing efficiency of the outlet can reach 99%, almost complete mixing. The fractal wall micromixer has good mixing effect and shows great application potential in chemical engineering and biological engineering.
A Ring-LWE-based digital signature inspired by Lindner–Peikert scheme
Authors: Sharafi Javad , Daghigh Hassan
Published: August 2022

In this article, we give a digital signature by using Lindner–Peikert cryptosystem. The security of this digital signature is based on the assumptions about hardness of Ring-LWE and Ring-SIS problems, along with providing public key and signature of compact (1–1.5 kilobytes) size. We prove the security of our signature scheme in the Quantum Random Oracle Model. Our cryptanalysis has been done based on methods of Aggarwal et al. and Chen et al.
Effects of gas-assisted technology on polymer micro coextrusion
Authors: Deng Xiaozhen , Xiao Bing , Ren Zhong , Zhu Zhifang , Liu Biao
Published: August 2022

In this paper, a three-dimensional viscoelastic flow model of double-layer micro coextrusion with circular cross-section was established. The simulations were carried out by the finite element method and the influence of wall slip coefficient on micro coextrusion was studied. The results show that gas-assisted technology is suitable for polymer micro coextrusion forming. The differences between the gas-assisted and conventional micro coextrusion process were compared by analyzing the distribution of melts velocity, pressure, shear rate and first normal stress difference. The research results show that in the conventional micro coextrusion process there are pressure drop, shear rate, first normal stress difference and secondary flow. And there is a gradient distribution of melts velocity. The die swell and deformation vary with the forming process parameters, and it is difficult to control the product quality. But in the gas-assisted micro coextrusion process, there is no pressure drop, shear rate, first normal stress difference and secondary flow. The velocity of polymer melts is evenly distributed and the melts are extruded in a plunger shape. The melts do not swell and deform and it is independent of forming process parameters. It is easy to ensure the products quality and the inherent problems of polymer conventional micro coextrusion are well solved.
Increased levels of neurofilament light chain in suicide attempters’ serum
Authors: Ramezani Mahtab , Simani Leila , Fard Mahdiye Golestani , Abbaszadeh Fatemeh , Shadnia Shahin
Published: August 2022

Background

A specific biological vulnerability underlies suicidal behavior. Recent findings have suggested a possible role of inflammation and neuroaxonal injury. However, the relationship between inflammation and clinical symptoms in this disorder is still unclear. The objective of this study is applying novel blood markers of neuroaxonal integrity such as neurofilament light chain (NfL) and comparing the results with the healthy control subjects.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study patients with suicide attempts were evaluated. The serum concentration of NfL on admission was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

A total of 50 patients with a suicide attempts and 35 healthy controls were included in the study. The levels of NfL in attempted suicide patients were significantly higher in comparison with healthy controls (40.52 ± 33.54 vs 13.73 ± 5.11, P < 0.001). A significant association between serum levels of NfL and risk factors for suicide was not found.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that axonal damage may be an underlying neuropathological component of suicide attempt patients, although no correlation was observed with clinical features. This line of work could lead to new horizons in understanding the neurobiology of suicidal attempts and the development of better management strategies for these patients.
AATF/Che‐1 localizes to paraspeckles and suppresses R‐loops accumulation and interferon activation in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Bruno Tiziana , Corleone Giacomo , Catena Valeria , Cortile Clelia , De Nicola Francesca , Fabretti Francesca , Gumenyuk Svitlana , Pisani Francesco , Mengarelli Andrea , Passananti Claudio , Fanciulli Maurizio
Published: August 2022

Several kinds of stress promote the formation of three‐stranded RNA:DNA hybrids called R‐loops. Insufficient clearance of these structures promotes genomic instability and DNA damage, which ultimately contribute to the establishment of cancer phenotypes. Paraspeckle assemblies participate in R‐loop resolution and preserve genome stability, however, the main determinants of this mechanism are still unknown. This study finds that in Multiple Myeloma (MM), AATF/Che‐1 (Che‐1), an RNA‐binding protein fundamental to transcription regulation, interacts with paraspeckles via the lncRNA NEAT1_2 (NEAT1) and directly localizes on R‐loops. We systematically show that depletion of Che‐1 produces a marked accumulation of RNA:DNA hybrids. We provide evidence that such failure to resolve R‐loops causes sustained activation of a systemic inflammatory response characterized by an interferon (IFN) gene expression signature. Furthermore, elevated levels of R‐loops and of mRNA for paraspeckle genes in patient cells are linearly correlated with Multiple Myeloma progression. Moreover, increased interferon gene expression signature in patients is associated with markedly poor prognosis. Taken together, our study indicates that Che‐1/NEAT1 cooperation prevents excessive inflammatory signaling in Multiple Myeloma by facilitating the clearance of R‐loops. Further studies on different cancer types are needed to test if this mechanism is ubiquitously conserved and fundamental for cell homeostasis.
GA3 acts as a germination promoter in wild castor bean ( Ricinus communis L.)
Authors: Ergin Nurgül , Kaya Muhammed Fatih , Kaya Mehmet Demir
Published: August 2022

In this study, we focused on overcoming germination inability in wild castor bean by treatment with different concentrations of gibberellic acid (GA3) and potassium nitrate (KNO3). The caruncle of mature seeds of wild castor bean, collected from natural habitats
in Türkiye, were removed at the seed tip. Seeds with or without caruncle were immersed in GA3 and KNO3 at concentrations of 0, 250, 500 and 1000 ppm. Germination and seedling growth parameters were evaluated. Removing the caruncle from the seeds significantly improved
germination (from 14.7 to 73.5%) and seedling growth characteristics. Application of KNO3 to the seeds without caruncle shortened mean germination time. GA3 promoted root elongation, but shoot growth was induced by KNO3. Hydration had a stimulative effect on
seedling fresh weight and dry matter, while the highest vigour index was identified in seeds primed with GA3. The beneficial effects of KNO3 and GA3 were maximal when treated with 500 ppm and 1000 ppm, respectively, while higher germination and better seedling
growth were obtained from hydration compared to KNO3. It is suggested that the presence of the caruncle restricts germination and 1000 ppm GA3 acts as a germination promotor in wild castor bean seeds.
Zinc as a non-hormonal contraceptive: an alternative to the copper intrauterine device (IUD)
Authors: Shankie-Williams K N , Lindsay L A , Murphy C R , Dowland S N
Published: August 2022

In brief

The many side effects of current contraceptives leave a large proportion of women without adequate protection. This study shows that zinc, a highly physiologically compatible metal, provides effective long-acting reversible contraception in rats, without requiring the use of hormones.

Long-acting and reversible contraceptives (LARC) are the most widely used form of female contraception worldwide; however, they have significant side effects that often result in early removal. Most LARCs are hormonal, but the use of exogenous hormones is not suitable for all women and causes side effects in many others. The copper IUD (CuIUD) is the only non-hormonal LARC, but a large proportion of users suffer severe side effects. This study proposes the use of zinc as a suitable alternative to the CuIUD. A rat intrauterine device (IUD) model was established to test the efficacy of a zinc IUD (ZnIUD) against a CuIUD. The IUD was surgically implanted into one uterine horn while the other remained untreated. Both the ZnIUD and CuIUD resulted in zero implantation sites which were significantly fewer compared to non-treated horns. Histological assessment revealed damage and inflammation in the endometrium of CuIUD-treated horns but only minor epithelial changes in ZnIUD-treated horns. This suggests ZnIUDs may not share the side effect profile of the CuIUD. To test the long-term efficacy of the ZnIUD, rats had a ZnIUD surgically implanted into both horns and cohoused with males for 3 months. These rats mated regularly but did not get pregnant, confirming long-term effectiveness. Reversibility of the ZnIUD was also established, as removal of the ZnIUD after 3 months resulted in no significant difference in the number of implantation sites between treated and untreated horns. This study demonstrated the contraceptive efficacy of zinc and its potential as a LARC.
Photovoltaic Power Generation Forecasting Based on the ARIMA-BPNN-SVR Model
Authors: Fan Guo-Feng , Wei Hui-Zhen , Chen Meng-Yao , Hong Wei-Chiang
Published: August 2022

With the continuous expansion of the capacity of photovoltaic power generation systems, accurate power generation load forecasting can make grid dispatching more reasonable and optimize load distribution. This paper proposes a combined forecasting model based on Auto Regression Integrate Moving Average (ARIMA), back propagation neural network (BPNN), and support vector regression (SVR), namely ARIMA-BPNN-SVR model, aiming at the problem of low accuracy of a single model and traditional forecasting model. Through the complementary advantages of ARIMA, BPNN, and SVR models, the model has good anti-noise ability, nonlinear mapping, and adaptive ability when processing photovoltaic power generation data. Data experiments are carried out on solar photovoltaic power generation in the United States, and the accuracy of model forecasting is evaluated according to MAE, MSE, RMSE, and MAPE. The experimental results show that the proposed ARIMA-BPNN-SVR outperforms the forecasting performance of the single models ARIMA, BPNN, and SVR. Its MAE, MSE, RMSE and MAPE are 0.53, 0.41, 0.64 and 0.84 respectively. In the Wilcoxon sign-rank test, the p-value of the proposed model reached 0.98, indicating the effectiveness of the ARIMA-BPNN-SVR model.