bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The pocket-creation method of endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Hayashi Yoshikazu , Miura Yoshimasa , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: February 2022

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is rapidly becoming the standard treatment for superficial gastrointestinal tumors because ESD can achieve complete local resection facilitating thorough pathological examination of the resected specimen. The pocket-creation method (PCM) has been established to perform safe and reliable ESD obtaining a high-quality pathological specimen. A minimal mucosal incision using PCM minimizes leakage of submucosally injected solution, which results in prolonged mucosal elevation. A limited-space submucosal pocket created using PCM makes the endoscope tip stable. A conical cap, small-caliber-tip transparent (ST) hood is used when performing PCM. The submucosa can be cut along the ideal dissection line just above the muscularis with minimal thermal damage because the tip of the ST hood produces both traction and countertraction to stretch the submucosal tissue in the pocket. PCM is recommended as the standard strategy not only for colorectal ESD but also for upper-gastrointestinal ESD. It is expected that the use of traction techniques will make PCM easier to perform.
On Exploring the Possibilities and the Limits of AI for an Interoperable and Empowering Industry 4.0
Authors: Lelli Francesco
Published: February 2022

This paper aims to raise awareness on certain interoperability issues as we intend to shape industry 5.0 in order to enable a human-centric resilient society. We advocate that the need of sharing small and specific data will become more intensive as AI-based solutions will become more pervasive. Consequently, dataspaces should be carefully designed to address this need. We advance the conversation by presenting a case study from HR demonstrating how to predict the possibility of an employee experiencing attrition. Our experimental results show that we need more than 500 samples for developing a machine learning model to be sufficiently capable to generalize the problem. Consequently, our experimental results show the feasibility of the idea. However, in small and medium sized companies this approach cannot be implemented due to the limited number of samples. At the same time, we advocate that this obstacle may be overcome if multiple companies will join a shared dataspace, thus raising interoperability issues
Cognate DNA Recognition by Engrailed Homeodomain Involves a Conformational Change Controlled via an Electrostatic-Spring-Loaded Latch
Authors: D'Amelio Nicola , Tanielian Benjamin , Sadqi Mourad , Lopez-Navajas Pilar , Victor Muñoz Victor
Published: February 2022

Transcription factors must scan genomic DNA, recognize the cognate sequence of their control element(s), and bind tightly to them. The DNA recognition process is primarily carried out by their DNA binding domains (DBD), which interact with the cognate site with high affinity and more weakly with any other DNA sequence. DBDs are generally thought to bind to their cognate DNA without changing conformation (lock-and-key). Here we used nuclear magnetic resonance and circular dichroism to investigate the interplay between DNA recognition and DBD conformation in the Engrailed homeodomain (EnHD), as model case for the homeodomain family of eukaryotic DBDs. We found that the conformational ensemble of EnHD is rather flexible and becomes more structured as ionic strength increases following a Debye-Hückel’s dependence. Our analysis indicates that EnHD’s response to ionic strength is mediated by a built-in electrostatic spring-loaded latch that operates as conformational transducer. We also found that, at moderate ionic strengths, EnHD changes conformation upon binding to cognate DNA. This change is of larger amplitude and somewhat orthogonal to the response to ionic strength. As a consequence, very high ionic strengths (e.g. 700 mM) block the electrostatic-spring-loaded latch and binding to cognate DNA becomes lock-and-key. However, the interplay between EnHD conformation and cognate DNA binding is robust across a range of ionic strengths (i.e. 45 to 300 mM) that covers the most physiologically-relevant conditions. Therefore, our results demonstrate the presence of a mechanism for the conformational control of cognate DNA recognition on a eukaryotic DBD. This mechanism can function as a signal transducer that immediately locks the DBD in place upon encountering the cognate site during active DNA scanning. The electrostatic-spring-loaded latch of EnHD can also enable the fine control of DNA recognition in response to local/temporal changes in ionic strength induced by variate physiological processes.
Anti-allergic Effects Of Fertilized Red Ginseng Marc On 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced Atopic Dermatitis-like Mice Model
Authors: Jung Yeun Soo , Choi Jae Young , Kwon Young-Sam , Park Gyu-Ryeul , Dachuri VinayKumar , Kim Young Woo , Ku Sae-Kwang , Song Chang-Hyun
Published: February 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic and allergic skin disease, however, there is no cure for the disease. Many studies have shown anti-AD potentials of red ginseng, while red ginseng marc (RGM) remained after the ginseng extraction is discarded as industrial waste. However, it is recently reported that RGM, particularly fermented RGM (fRGM), still contains the bioactive properties. Thus, anti-allergic effects of fRGM were examined in 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced AD-like mice model. The model was topically treated with distilled water (control), dexamethasone, or fRGM for six weeks. The treatments of fRGM alleviated the skin lesions and reduced serum IgE levels, compared with the control. The fRGM also reduced skin levels of lipid peroxidation and superoxide anion, however, increased glutathione contents, with down-regulated gene expressions for inflammatory mediators. The histopathological analyses demonstrated that fRGM suppressed the epidermal thickening, collagen deposition, and inflammatory cell and mast cell infiltration, which involved the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects. Further, fRGM suppressed hypertrophic changes and inflammatory responses in the spleen and lymph node. The beneficial effects were observed in the dexamethasone and fRGM groups, however, the antioxidant effects were evident only in the fRGM treatments. These provide useful information for developing fRGM as therapeutic sources for AD.
PHARMACO-THERAPEUTICAL ADHERENCE OF HYPERTENSIVE PATIENT
Authors:   Sonia Imtiaz, Abdus Salam Nabila
Published: February 2022

The aim of present study is to evaluate the patient adherence and effect of combination therapy for the management of hypertension. A case study was evaluated to ascertain whether combination therapy to treat hypertension is rational or not. The basic goal in this therapy is to reduce blood pressure, to normalize the heart beat of concerned patient, to improve her health status along with prevention of other cardiac problem like stroke, myocardial infarction and heart failure. A combination of Î²- blocker & calcium channel blocker was administered to patient. It is concluded that in given case study patient adherence and combination therapy of Î²- blocker & calcium channel blocker were rational & thus have more prominent effect in management of HTN , Tachycardia and in improving the patient quality of life.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF BUCCAL PATCH CONTAINING ACECL``OFENAC
Authors:   P. B. Suruse, Shivhare U. D.
Published: February 2022

The main objective of the present study was to improve bioavailability of Aceclofenac and decrease the frequency of dosage form administration by sustained release formulation of the drug from the mucoadhesive drug delivery system. Aceclofenac belongs to the drug class known as NSAIDs. It is normally indicated for the treatment of dental pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF BUCCAL PATCH CONTAINING ACECLOFENAC
Authors: Shivhare U. D.
Published: February 2022

The main objective of the present study was to improve bioavailability of Aceclofenac and decrease the frequency of dosage form administration by sustained release formulation of the drug from the mucoadhesive drug delivery system. Aceclofenac belongs to the drug class known as NSAIDs. It is normally indicated for the treatment of dental pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
OPTIMIZATION OF SPRAY DRYING PROCESS USING CENTRAL COMPOSITE DESIGN (CCD)
Authors:   Sudesh Bhagvan Shetye, Banerjee Sabyasachi
Published: February 2022

Spray-drying process was used for the development of drug complex with Î²-CD (Î²-cyclodextrin). The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of formulation and process variables on the resulting powder characteristics in order to optimize them. A face-centered central composite design was applied to optimize the spray drying process on a pilot scale (15 liters).
A China Healthcare Security Diagnosis Related Groups Script Development based on R Language
Authors: Zhu Junmin , Fan Yunhai , He Quanhui , Peng Wanglin
Published: February 2022

Background: To develop a set of R scripts that could efficiently and accurately identify the home page information of medical records and perform China Healthcare Security Diagnosis Related Groups (CHS-DRG) simulating grouping.Methods: Based on the CHS-DRG grouping rules, we abstracted the DRG grouping process into a standard algorithm and compiled the R script Z-DRG. The DRG simulating groupings by Z-DRG were compared with the DRG results from the regional CHS-DRG integrated service platform to evaluate the accuracy.Results: The Z-DRG includes one function module (zdrgfun. Rc), one operation module (zdrgpro. R) and one database form (zdrgcodes.RData). The function module set 7 algorithm steps and 8 custom functions. The functions were set for multiple diagnoses, multiple operations, joint diagnosis and operation. Only (17.85±0.11) milliseconds were taken for CHS-DRG simulating grouping of one case. Compared with the regional CHS-DRG results, the accuracy rate was 99.10%. The difference in the number of other diagnoses is the main reason that affected the accuracy.Conclusions: Z-DRG is easy to operate. The CHS-DRG simulating groupings were efficient and accurate. The simulation results could be effectively applied for medical institutions to carry out CHS-DRG grouping prediction and improve the implementation effect of CHS-DRG payment work.
Paediatric Eye and Vision Research Participation Experiences: A Systematic Review
Authors: Miller Jacqueline , Curtis-Tyler Katherine , Maden Michelle , Dahlmann-Noor Annegret , Chudleigh Jane
Published: February 2022

Background:For children and young people with eye and vision conditions, research is essential to advancing evidence-based recommendations in diagnosis, prevention, treatments and cures. Patient ‘experience’ reflects a key measure of quality in health care (1); research participant ‘experiences’ are equally important. Therefore, in order to achieve child-centred, high quality paediatric ophthalmic research, we need to understand participation experiences. We conducted a systematic review of existing literature; our primary outcome was to understand what supports or hinders positive eye and vision research experiences for children and young people. Our secondary outcomes explored whether participation experiences were perceived to have any positive or adverse effects, and if any interventions to improve paediatric ophthalmic research experiences had previously been developed or used. Methods:We searched (from inception to Nov 2018, updated July 2020) in MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, NICE evidence and The Cochrane Library (CDSR and CENTRAL), key journals (by hand), grey literature databases and Google Scholar; looking for evidence from the perspectives of children, young people, parents and staff with experience of paediatric ophthalmic research. The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Participant in Research Experience Survey (PRES) (2, 3) identified ‘five domains’ pivotal to shaping positive research experiences; we used these domains as an ‘a priori’ framework to conduct a ‘best fit’ synthesis (4, 5).Results:Our search yielded 13,020 papers; two studies were eligible. These evaluated research experiences from the perspectives of parents and staff; the perspectives of children and young people themselves were not collected. No studies were identified addressing our secondary objectives. Synthesis confirmed the experiences of parents were shaped by staff characteristics, information provision, trial organisation and personal motivations; concurring with the ‘PRES domains’(3), and generating additional dimensions to participation motivations and the physical and emotional costs of study organisation.Conclusions:The evidence base is limited and importantly omits the voices of children and young people. Further research, involving children and young people, is necessary to better understand the research experiences of this population, and so inform quality improvements for paediatric ophthalmic research care and outcomes.Registration: Review registered with PROSPERO, International prospective register of systematic reviews: CRD42018117984
The Unequal Distribution of International Climate Finance Flows and Its Underlying Drivers
Authors: Rickman Jamie , Kothari Sumit , Larosa Francesca , Ameli Nadia
Published: February 2022

Developed country pledges to provide finance to developing countries for their mitigation actions and adaptation needs sit at the heart of international climate cooperation. Present commitments are deficient both in terms of their quantity and their distribution among developing countries. Using wind and solar energy financing data we highlight the unequal distribution of international climate finance among developing countries and identify the determinants of investment suitability that drives the flows of non-aid climate finance more generally. Economic capabilities, business environment, climate policy environment and electricity access levels are significant drivers of private finance flows, whereas public finance is driven chiefly by domestic climate policy ambition since the Paris Agreement. Climate-vulnerable countries however struggle to access finance, with path dependency in investment flows further reinforcing existing inequalities. Forthcoming deliberations on quantifying long-term finance targets should thus incorporate mechanisms to distribute finance more equitably to meet country-specific needs and priorities.
Return of comprehensive tumour genomic profiling results to advanced cancer patients: a qualitative study
Authors: Best Megan , Bartley Nicci , Napier Christine , Fisher Alana , Ballinger Mandy , Thomas David , Goldstein David , Tucker Katherine , Biesecker Barbara , Butow Phyllis
Published: February 2022

PurposeThe introduction of comprehensive tumour genomic profiling (CGP) into clinical oncology allows the identification of molecular therapeutic targets. However, the potential complexity of genomic results and their implications may cause confusion and distress for patients undergoing CGP. We investigated the experience of advanced cancer patients receiving CGP results in a research setting. MethodsSemi-structured interviews with 37 advanced cancer patients were conducted within two weeks of patients receiving CGP results. Interviewees were purposively sampled based on CGP result, cancer type, age and gender to ensure diversity. Themes were derived from interview transcripts using a framework analysis approach.ResultsWe identified six themes: 1) Hoping against the odds; 2) Managing expectations; 3) Understanding is cursory; 4) Communication of results is cursory; 5) Genomics and incurable cancer; and 6) Decisions about treatment.ConclusionDespite enthusiasm regarding CGP about the hope it provides for new treatments, participants experienced challenges in understanding results, and acceptance of identified treatments was not automatic. Support is needed for patients undergoing CGP to understand the implications of testing and cope with non-actionable results.
Factors Influencing the Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccines in a Country With a High Vaccination Rate
Authors: Toro-Ascuy Daniela , Cifuentes-Munoz Nicolas , Avaria Andrea , Pereira-Montencinos Camila , Cruzat Gilena , Zorondo-Rodriguez Francisco , Fuenzalida Loreto F
Published: February 2022

Control of the COVID-19 pandemic largely depends on the effectiveness of the vaccination process. Understanding the factors that underlie the willingness to accept vaccination contributes pivotal information to control the pandemic. We analyzed the association between the willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccines available and vaccine determinants amidst the Chilean vaccination process. Individual-level survey data was collected from 744 nationally representative respondents and multivariate regression models were used to estimate the association between outcome and explanatory variables. We found that trust in COVID-19 vaccines, scientists, and medical professionals increased the willingness to: accept the vaccines, booster doses, annual vaccinations, and the vaccination of children. Our results are critical to understanding the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines in the context of a country with one of the world’s highest vaccination rates. We provide information for decision-making and policy design, as well as guidelines regarding how to effectively explain vaccination programs to citizens.
Mapping the immune landscape in metastatic melanoma reveals localized cell-cell interactions correlating to immunotherapy responsiveness
Authors: Bosisio Francesca , Antoranz Asier , Herck Yannick Van , Bolognesi Maddalena , Lynch Seodhna , Rahman Arman , Gallagher William , Boecxstaens Veerle , Marine Jean-Christophe , Cattoretti Giorgio , Oord Joost van den , De Smet Frederik , Bechter Oliver
Published: February 2022

While immune checkpoint-based immunotherapy (ICI) shows spectacular clinical results in cancer patients, only a subset of the these respond favorably to such treatment. Response to ICI is dictated by the integration of complex networks of cellular interactions between malignant and non-malignant cells. Although new insights into the mechanisms that modulate the pivotal anti-tumoral activity of cytotoxic T-cells (Tcy) have recently been gained, much of what we have learned is based on single-cell analyses of dissociated tumor samples; therefore, we lack critical information about the spatial distribution of the relevant cell types. Here, we used multiplexed immunohistochemistry to spatially characterize the immune landscape of metastatic melanoma from responders vs non-responders to ICI. By creating such high-dimensional pathology maps, we show that Tcy gradually evolve towards an exhausted phenotype as they approach and infiltrate the tumor. Moreover, our analysis revealed a key cellular interaction network that functionally links Tcy and PD-L1+ macrophages. Critically, mapping the respective spatial distribution of these two cell populations predict response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy with high confidence. We conclude that baseline measurements of the spatial context should be integrated in the design of predictive biomarkers to identify patients likely to benefit from ICI.
Inclusion Of Lutein And Zeaxanthin İn Standard Or Omega-3 Fatty Acids Enriched Laying Hens Diets:Effects On Performance, Egg Quality Parameters, Fatty Acid Composition And Individual Carotenoids Concentration Of Egg Yolk
Authors: Malayoglu Hatice Basmacıoglu , Aktaş Burcu , Karadaş Filiz , Özdemir Pınar
Published: February 2022

The effects of lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z) inclusion to standard or omega-3 fatty acids enriched laying hens’ diets, on performance, egg quality parameters, fatty acids and individual carotenoids of egg yolk was investigated. The dietary treatments were designed as: standard (S) diet, 50 mg/kg L plus 50 mg/kg Z (S+L/Z (50+50)) or 100 mg/kg lutein plus 100 mg/kg zeaxanthin (S+L/Z (100+100)) added to S diet, Omega-3 fatty acids enriched (OM3) diet, 50 mg/kg lutein plus 50 mg/kg zeaxanthin (OM3+L/Z (50+50) or 100 mg/kg lutein plus 100 mg/kg zeaxanthin (OM3+L/Z (100+100)) added to OM3 diet. Hens with a mean live weight of 1525.88 ± 31.19 g were divided into six treatment groups. During the experimental period, there was not any mortality rate recorded. Dietary inclusion of L/Z (50+50 or 100+100) either in S or OM3 diets did not alter performance parameters. Eggs from hens fed enriched diet (OM3) significantly increased (P<0.05) the albumen index and Haugh unit. The type of dietary fat source (F), equal dose of L/Z or F×L/Z on egg yolk lutein, unknown carotenoids and total carotenoid concentration were found to be significant. However, the F on zeaxanthin concentration was not significant (P>0.05). The yolk color a* value was significantly increased by inclusion of L/Z (50+50 or 100+100) to diets (S or OM3) (P<0.05) and this was correlated with increased (P<0.05) concentration of individual carotenoids. The major changes in egg yolk fatty acid MUFA and PUFA composition occurred when laying hen fed with OM3 diet.
Use of the oral beta blocker bisoprolol to reduce the rate of exacerbation in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a randomised controlled trial. (BICS)
Authors: Cotton Seonaidh , Devereux Graham , Abbas Hassan , Briggs Andrew , Campbell Karen , Chaudhuri Rekha , Choudhury Gourab , Dawson Dana , De Soyza Anthony , Fielding Shona , Gompertz Simon , Haughney John , Lang Chim , Lee Amanda , MacLennan Graeme , MacNee William , McCormack Kirsty , McMeekin Nicola , Mills Nicholas , Morice Alyn , Norrie John , Petrie Mark , Price David , Short Philip , Vestbo Jorgen , Walker Paul , Wedzicha Jadwiga , Wilson Andrew , Lipworth Brian
Published: February 2022

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is associated with significant morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs. Beta-blockers are well-established drugs widely used to treat cardiovascular conditions. Observational studies consistently report that beta-blocker use in people with COPD is associated with a reduced risk of COPD exacerbations. The bisoprolol in COPD study (BICS) investigates whether adding bisoprolol to routine COPD treatment has clinical and cost-effective benefits. A sub-study will risk stratify participants for heart failure to investigate whether any beneficial effect of bisoprolol is restricted to those with unrecognised heart disease.Methods: BICS is a pragmatic randomised parallel group double-blind placebo-controlled trial conducted in UK primary and secondary care sites. The major inclusion criteria are an established predominant respiratory diagnosis of COPD (post-bronchodilator FEV1<80% predicted, FEV1/FVC<0.7), a self-reported history of ≥2 exacerbations requiring treatment with antibiotics and/or oral corticosteroids in a 12-month period since March 2019, age ≥40 years and a smoking history ≥10 pack years. A computerised randomisation system will allocate 1574 participants with equal probability to intervention or control groups, stratified by centre, and recruitment in primary/secondary care. The intervention is bisoprolol (1.25 mg tablets) or identical placebo. The dose of bisoprolol/placebo is titrated up to a maximum of 4 tablets a day (5mg bisoprolol) over four-seven weeks depending on tolerance to up-dosing of bisoprolol/placebo – these titration assessments are completed by telephone or video call. Participants complete the remainder of the 52-week treatment period on the final titrated dose (1,2,3,4 tablets) and during that time are followed up at 26 and 52 weeks by telephone or video call. The primary outcome is the total number of participant reported COPD exacerbations requiring oral corticosteroids and/or antibiotics during the 52-week treatment period. A sub-study will risk stratify participants for heart failure by echocardiography and measurement of blood biomarkers. Discussion: The demonstration that bisoprolol reduces the incidence of exacerbations would be relevant not only to patients and clinicians but also to healthcare providers, in the UK and globally.Trial registration: Current controlled trials ISRCTN10497306 (registered 16 August 2018)
Duration Of Delayed Graft Function And Its Impact On Graft Outcomes In Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation Running Head: Impact of Duration of Delayed Graft Function
Authors: Budhiraja Pooja , Reddy Kunam S , Butterfield Richard J , Jadlowiec Caroline C , Moss Adyr A , Khamash Hassan A , Kodali Lavanya , Misra Suman S , Heilman Raymond L
Published: February 2022

Background. There is controversy regarding the impact of delayed graft function (DGF) on kidney transplant outcomes. We hypothesize that the duration of DGF, rather than DGF itself, is associated with long-term kidney graft function.Methods. We analyzed all deceased donor kidney transplants (DDKT) done at our center between 2008 to 2020 with DGF to determine factors associated with DGF duration as well as the impact of DGF duration on 1) acute rejection, BKV infection, progression of fibrosis on protocol biopsy, and death censored graft survival 2) resource utilization, including hospital length of stay and readmissions. DGF duration was assessed at three 14-day intervals: <14 DGF days, 14-27 DGF days, >28 DGF days.Results. There were 1714 DDKT were included, 59.4% (n=1018) had DGF. The median DGF duration was 10 days IQR (6,15). The majority of recipients (95%) had resolution of DGF within 28 days. Donor factors associated with DGF days were longer cold ischemia time, donor on inotropes, older age, donation after circulatory death, higher terminal creatinine, and hypertension. Recipient factors associated with increased DGF duration included male sex, length on dialysis before transplant, and higher body mass index. There were no differences in acute rejection events or interstitial fibrosis progression by 4 months when comparing DGF days. The median length of stay was 3 days. However, readmissions increased with increasing DGF duration. Death-censored graft survival was not associated with the length of DGF except when DGF lasted >28 days. Conclusions. Inferior graft survival was observed only in recipients of DDKT with DGF lasting beyond 28 days. DGF lasting <28 days had no impact on graft survival. Duration of DGF, rather than DGF itself, is associated with graft survival. Trial Registration. Retrospective study approved by Mayo Clinic IRB.
Heuristics and Biases in Evaluations of Economic Inequality
Authors: Bogard Jonathan , West Colin , Fox Craig
Published: February 2022

How money ought to be distributed among different groups is a critical question influencing elections and policymaking. In eight pre-registered studies (N=4,188) we show that people across the political spectrum are systematically biased when making judgments about economic inequality. We hypothesize that people reduce the complexity associated with such judgments by relying on a simplifying strategy in which they mainly focus on differences in wealth between the most salient groups, usually the richest versus poorest groups. This implies two biases. First, judgments about economic distributions are under-sensitive to differences in the size of identified population groups. This results in greater tolerance for inequality and lower support for redistributional policies when richer groups are composed of fewer individuals than poorer groups (e.g., comparing the richest 10% versus the rest of the country). Second, judgments systematically underweight information about intermediate groups relative to the richest and poorest groups, resulting in relative neglect of the prosperity of the middle class, independent of stated concern for their well-being. We show that these biases influence downstream policy support as strongly as differences in partisanship, and we conclude by proposing guidelines for presenting economic distributions in ways that are less susceptible to these biases.
Pollen Sensitization Among Egyptian Patients With Respiratory Allergic Diseases
Authors: Mohamed Manar Farouk , Refaat Maged Mohamed , Melek Nermine Abd El-Nour , Ahmed Eman Al-Sayed , Al-Din Nada Mohamed Noor , Latif Osama Mohamed Abdel
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Pollen is responsible for seasonal allergies, such as allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (AR), and has become a growing public health concern. Climate change affects the range of allergenic species as well as the timing and length of the pollen season. In Egypt, data on pollinosis are scarce. Objectives: To detect the most prevalent pollen causing allergies among Egyptian patients with respiratory allergies. Methods: A total of 200 adult patients with respiratory allergic diseases (AR) and/or bronchial asthma (BA) were included. Medical history taking and physical examinations were conducted on each patient, and complete blood count (CBC) and total immunoglobulin E (IgE) determination, spirometry, specific IgE, and skin prick tests (SPTs) and for common aeroallergens and food were performed. Results: Of the 200 patients, 106 were females; the mean ± standard deviation was 34.42 ± 13.0 (range, 16 to 66), and 65% were living in urban areas. Grass pollen, mainly from Timothy grass and maize, were the most prevalent (28.5%). Timothy grass was the most common type of pollen in patients with AR (28.3 %). Elder pollen showed significance among asthmatic patients (P = 0.004). Bermuda grass was statistically more prevalent in rural than in urban areas (P value = 0.008). Maize was linked to uncontrolled BA, whereas Timothy grass was the most prevalent among patients with moderate/severe AR. Forty-three patients had oral allergy syndrome; oranges and tomatoes were the most cross-reactive food (12% and 11.5%, respectively). Exacerbation of allergic symptoms was noted during January, December, March, and June. Conclusion: Pollen plays a substantial role in affecting patients with respiratory allergies in Egypt. Grass pollen is the most prevalent type of pollen, especially in urban areas.
Study of the factors influencing material properties on energy absorbing devices
Authors: An Dong , Liu Tianwang , Cui Hewei , Chen Zheng , Xu Hailiang , Song Yimin
Published: February 2022

A pre-folded energy absorption device is used to support energy absorption in mining engineering. Due to the change of material properties of the pre-folded energy absorption device during steel processing, the force-displacement curves of the quasi-static compression test and numerical simulation are inconsistent. In this paper, ABAQUS numerical simulation method is used to study the influence of material properties changes in each region on the force-displacement curve of the energy absorption device. It is found that the material properties of each area have an effect on the first drop stage and the second rise stage of the force-displacement curve. M area of the material properties change has an effect on the peak force-displacement curve; from the perspective of the evaluation index, the change of material properties in each area has an improvement effect on the average load, load efficiency, and specific energy absorption. O1-O2-M has the highest improvement effect, which is 34.27 %, 32.81 %，and 34.30 % higher than IM, respectively.
A Systems Biology Approach to the Pathogenesis of Celiac Disease: Identification of Potential Protective and Promoting Mechanisms
Authors: Fadaie Mahmood , Ghafouri Elham , Ranjbarnejad Tayebeh , Moein Shiva
Published: February 2022

Background: Celiac disease is an autoimmune enteropathy triggered by dietary gluten. Almost 90% of celiac disease patients have HLA-DQ2 or -DQ8 haplotypes. As a high proportion of first-degree relatives of celiac disease patients have the same haplotype, it is assumed that they are at a higher risk of disease development than the general population. Nevertheless, the prevalence of celiac disease among first-degree relatives is considerably low (7.5%). Results: In order to figure out this discrepancy, a microarray dataset of intestinal mucosal biopsies of celiac disease patients, first-degree relatives, and control groups was reanalyzed, and protein-protein interaction network was constructed. Principle component analysis showed that celiac disease and first-degree relative groups are far away in terms of gene expression. Comparing differentially expressed genes of both networks demonstrated inverse expression of some genes mainly related to cell cycle mechanisms. Moreover, analysis of the modular structures of up and downregulated gene networks determined activation of protein degradation mechanisms and inhibition of ribosome-related protein synthesis in celiac patients with an upside-down pattern in first-degree relatives.Conclusions: The top-down systems biology approach determined some regulatory pathways with inverse function in celiac disease and first-degree relative groups. These genes and molecular mechanisms could be a matter of investigation as potential druggable targets or prognostic markers in celiac disease.
PEG induces maturation of somatic embryos of Passiflora edulis Sims ‘UENF Rio Dourado’ by differential accumulation of proteins and modulation of endogenous contents of free polyamines
Authors: Cruz Kaliane Zaira Camacho Maximiano , Almeida Felipe Astolpho , Vale Ellen Moura , Botini Nadia , Vettorazzi Rosana Gobbi , Santos Renan Carrari , Santa-Catarina Claudete , Silveira Vanildo
Published: February 2022

Sour passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) has economic and social relevance and is an alternative crop mainly for family farming agriculture. The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the maturation of somatic embryos associated with differential accumulation of proteins and changes in the endogenous polyamine (PA) content during somatic embryogenesis of P. edulis ‘UENF Rio Dourado’. Maturation of somatic embryos was performed using embryogenic callus in MS culture medium with PEG 6% or without PEG (control). PEG 6% promoted the maturation of a significantly higher number of somatic embryos at globular and cotyledonary stages when compared to the control treatment. The higher somatic embryo formation induced by PEG 6% was associated with an increase in endogenous contents of free spermine, a PA with an important role in the maturation process of somatic embryogenesis cultures. PEG also promoted a significantly higher content of putrescine and total free PAs at the end of maturation, which was relevant for the increase in the number of somatic embryos. Comparative proteomic analyses of PEG 6%/control revealed that PEG 6% treatment induced the up-accumulation of proteins related to the ATP metabolic, glycolytic, generation of precursor metabolite energy, and the response to light stimulus processes. The down-accumulated proteins were related mainly to the cellular metabolic process. The use of PEG induced the maturation and development of somatic embryos of P. edulis Sims ‘UENF Rio Dourado’ by the differential accumulation of proteins and modulation of endogenous contents of PAs.
Towards a Low Carbon ASEAN: An environmentally extended MRIO optimization model
Authors: Amheka Adrianus , Nguyen Hoa Thi , Yu Krista Danielle , Noach Robert Mesakh , Murugappan Viknesh Andiappan , Dacanay Vincent Joseph , Aviso Kathleen
Published: February 2022

BackgroundEconomic growth is dependent on economic activity, which often translates to higher levels of carbon emissions. With the emergence of technologies that promote sustainable production, governments are working towards achieving their target economic growth while minimizing environmental emissions to meet their commitments to the international community. The IPCC reports that economic activities associated with electricity and heat production contributed most to GHG emissions and it led to the steady increase in global average temperatures. Currently, more than 90% of the total GHG emissions of the ASEAN region is attributable to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. These regions are also expected to be greatly affected with climate change. To analyze how ASEAN nations can achieve carbon reduction targets while aspiring for economic growth rates, and in consideration of interdependencies between nations, this study develops a multi-regional input-output model for minimizing collective and individual carbon emissions. A high-level eight-sector economy is used for analyzing different economic strategies.ResultsThis model shows that minimizing collective carbon emissions can still yield economic growth. Countries can focus on developing sectors that have growth potentials and lower carbon intensity-such as the services sector, agriculture, and food manufacturing sector. In addition, the simultaneous implementation of multiple carbon emission reduction strategies provides the largest reduction in regional carbon emissions. ConclusionsThis model provides a more holistic view of how the generation of carbon emissions are influenced by the interdependence of nations. The emissions reduction achieved by each country varied depending on the state of technology and the level of economic development in the different regions. This current model can be used to help nations identify more appropriate and achievable carbon reduction targets and to develop more customized policies to target priority sectors in a country. This model is currently limited by the assumption of fixed technical coefficients in the exchange and interdependence of different regions. Future work can investigate modelling flexible multi-regional trade where regions have the option of substituting goods and products in its import or export structure. Other strategies for reducing carbon emission intensity can also be explored, such as modelling transport mode choices, or establishing sectors for waste management. Hybrid models which integrate the multi-regional input-output linear program model with data envelopment analysis can also be developed.
A novel Scaled-Gamma-Tanh (SGT) activation function in 3D CNN applied for MRI classification
Authors: Khagi Bijen , Kwon Goo-Rak
Published: February 2022

Activation functions in the neural network are responsible for ‘firing’ the nodes in it. In a deep neural network (DNN) they ‘activate’ the features to reduce feature redundancy and learn the complex pattern by adding non-linearity in the network to learn task-specific goals. In this paper, we propose a simple and interesting activation function based on the combination of scaled gamma correction and hyperbolic tangent function, which we call Scaled Gamma Tanh (SGT) activation. The proposed activation function is applied in two steps, first is the calculation of gamma version as y = f(x) = axα for x<0 and bxβ for x>=0, second is obtaining the squashed value as z=tanh(y). The variables a and b are user-defined constant values whereas \({\alpha }\) and \({\beta }\)are channel-based learnable parameters. We analyzed the behavior of the proposed SGT activation function against other popular activation functions like ReLU, Leaky-ReLU, and tanh along with their role to confront vanishing/exploding gradient problems. For this, we implemented the SGT activation functions in a 3D Convolutional neural network (CNN) for the classification of magnetic resonance imagings (MRIs). More importantly to support our proposed idea we have presented a thorough analysis via histogram of inputs and outputs in activation layers along with weights/bias plot and TSNE-projection of fully connected layer (FCL) for the trained CNN models. Our results in MRI classification show SGT outperforms standard ReLU and tanh activation in all cases i.e., final validation accuracy, final validation loss, test accuracy, Cohen-Kappa score, and Precision.
Changes in Bone Scan Index and Progression-Free and Overall Survival in Patients with Bone Metastasis of Breast Cancer
Authors: Naito Yoichi , Nakamura Rikiya , Kondo Naoto , Kikawa Yuichiro , Maeda Hideki , Akabane Hiromitsu , Sagara Yasuaki , Aihara Tomohiko , Yokota Isao , Mukai Hirofumi
Published: February 2022

PurposeThe bone scan index (BSI) describes the tumor burden in bones as a percent of the total skeletal mass based on reference skeletal masses by bone scintigraphies. We conducted a prospective observational study to investigate the utility of BSI for breast cancer patients with bone metastasis.MethodsWe included patients with histologically or cytologically diagnosed breast cancer, radiologically or histologically confirmed bone metastasis, and receipt of less than three lines of systemic treatments. Bone scintigraphies were performed at the period of study enrollment and 12 and 24 weeks later. BSI was evaluated centrally. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS); secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and skeletal-related events. ResultsA total of 167 patients were enrolled and 153 were evaluable in the analysis. All the patients had bone metastasis; 45.8 % (n = 70) had bone-only disease, 17.0 % (n = 26) had lung, and 4.6 % (n = 7) had liver metastasis. The change in BSI from baseline to 12 weeks was significantly correlated with PFS (HR 1.25, 95%CI 1.13-1.40, p<0.01) and OS (HR 1.26, 95%CI 1.08-1.47, p<0.01). The change in BSI from baseline to 24 weeks was also significantly correlated with PFS (HR 1.32, 95%CI 1.06-1.65, p = 0.01) and OS (HR 1.47, 95%CI 1.11-1.95, p<0.01). The baseline BSI was not associated with PFS or OS.ConclusionAmong the metastatic breast cancer patients with bone metastasis, BSI changes from baseline to 12 weeks and 24 weeks were significantly related with PFS and OS.
Antibacterial Activity Studies of Essential Oils from Red Sage (Lantana Camara)
Authors: Ajayi Omoyemi Oluwatosin , Aborode Abdullah Tunde , Subuloye Opeyemi Isaac , Ajagbe Abayomi Oyeyemi , Sillanpaa Mika , Ogemdi Iwuozor Kignsley , Obadowo Babatunde Samuel , Arinola Ridwan Iyanu , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: February 2022

Essential oils are important source of rich medicinal compounds. They are highly volatile, aromatic compounds from natural origins. The essential oils cause the hydrophobility of the bacteria cytoplasm, resulting to the cell wall degradation. The recent activity studies of Lantana camara have mapped out the need to investigate the antibacterial potency of its essential oil. Herein, the result and discussion of the characterization with their antibacterial activity of Lantana camara was reported; the Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) on the bacteria (Positive and Negative Gram) with Ciprofloxacin a known antibiotic as the positive control. The broth and agar diffusion method were used in estimating Zone of the inhibition. Oil show moderate antibacterial potency with respect to each of the bacterium used; the potency tends to increase considerably with increase in concentration (25% <50% < 80% < 100%). The zone of inhibition exhibited by the assay at 100% concentration of the essential oil on E. coli was the closest shown to that of the control (ciprofloxacin), also the MIC on E. coli at 100% concentration of the essential oil was greater than that of the control (ciprofloxacin). Consequently, essential oils from lantana camara becomes a wellspring of antibiotics for restraining bacteria action.
Investigating Cervical Flexion-Relaxation Ratio in Patients with Cervical Lateral Spinal Stenosis Compared with Asymptomatic Controls: a case control study
Authors: Akbarnejad-Basra Zahra , Javanshir Khodabakhsh , Saadat Payam , Mousavi-Khatir Roghayeh
Published: February 2022

Background
The cervical flexion-relaxation ratio (FRR) is known as a quantitative measure of the ability of the cervical extensor muscles to relax during the full flexion of the cervical spine. In this sense, the variations in the cervical FRR indicate some changes in the neuromuscular pattern of extensor muscles, and consequently, their functions. Compared with patients suffering from non-specific neck pain, the changes occurring in the pattern of the neck muscles' functions in cases with cervical spinal stenosis are not yet well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to compare cervical FRR in patients with cervical lateral spinal stenosis and asymptomatic controls.
Methods
In total, 25 patients with cervical lateral spinal stenosis (aged 44.7±10.4) and 25 asymptomatic individuals (aged 44.3±10.8) were included in this study. These participants performed full-neck flexion, and at the same time, the electrical activity of the cervical erector spinae (CES) muscles was recorded bilaterally. Cervical FRR was further calculated by analyzing the electromyographic (EMG) data recorded for each muscle.
Results
The mean cervical FRR was significantly lower (P<0.05) and the FRR asymmetry (∆FRR) was significantly higher (P=0.003) in the patients than asymptomatic controls. In addition, the cervical FRR of the involved side was significantly lower in the patients compared with that in the non-involved one (P=0.004). There was also a significant difference in the cervical extension (CE) angle between both study groups (P<0.001), while the cervical flexion (CF) angle was not different (P>0.05).
Conclusion
According to the study results, it was concluded that the neuromuscular pattern of the cervical muscles could change asymmetrically and the CE angle could decline in individuals with cervical lateral spinal stenosis. Therefore, such patients will be more susceptible to biomechanical changes and persistent pain if the cervical muscles are not considered in their treatment.
Identification of an inhibitory pocket in falcilysin bound by chloroquine provides a new avenue for malaria drug development
Authors:   Grennady Wirjanata1, Dziekan Jerzy , Lin Jianqing , Sahili Abbas El , Zulkifli Nur Elyza Binte , Boentoro Josephine , Kai Roy Tham Jun , Tjia Seth , Go Ka Diam , Yu Han , Partridge Anthony , Olsen David , Prabhu Nayana , Sobota Radoslaw , Nordlund Pär , Lescar Julien , Bozdech Zbynek
Published: February 2022

Despite their widespread use, our understanding of how malaria drugs work remains limited. This includes chloroquine (CQ), the most successful antimalarial ever deployed. Here, we used MS-CETSA and dose-response transcriptional profiling to identify possible protein targets and mechanism of action (MOA) of CQ, as well as MK-4815, a malaria drug candidate with a proposed MOA similar to CQ. Both compounds bind falcilysin (FLN) and hemoglobin digestion was the key biological pathway affected, with distinct MOA profiles between CQ-sensitive and CQ-resistant parasites. We showed that CQ and MK-4815 inhibit FLN proteolytic activity, and using X-ray crystallography, that they occupy a hydrophobic pocket situated within the large peptide substrate binding cavity of FLN. Studies using transgenic parasite line suggest the potential role of FLN in the CQ and MK-4815 MOA. Altogether, our data reveal a druggable pocket in the FLN substrate binding cavity that can be explored in future antimalarial development efforts.