bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Score After Ten Years of Registration of Systematic Review Protocols
Authors: Braak Kim van der , Ghannad Mona , Orelio Claudia , Heus Pauline , Damen Johanna A.A. , Spijker Rene , Robinson Karen , Lund Hans , Hooft Lotty
Published: March 2022

Background: With the exponential growth of published systematic reviews (SR), there is a high potential for overlapping and redundant duplication of work. Prospective protocol registration gives the opportunity to assess the added value of a new study or review, thereby potentially reducing research waste and simultaneously increasing transparency and research quality. The PROSPERO database for SR protocol registration was launched ten years ago. This study aims to assess the proportion SRs of intervention studies with a protocol registration (or publication) and explore associations of SR characteristics with protocol registration status. Methods: PubMed was searched for SRs of human intervention studies published in January 2020 and January 2021. After random stratified sampling and eligibility screening, data extraction on publication and journal characteristics; and protocol registration status was performed. Both descriptive and multivariate comparative statistical analysis were performed.Results: A total of 357 SRs (2020: n=163; 2021: n=194) were included from a random sample of 1267 publications. Of the published SRs, 38% had a protocol. SRs that reported PRISMA have higher odds of having a protocol than publications that did not report PRISMA (OR 2.6; 95% CI: 1.20 to 5.69). SRs with a higher journal impact factor, have a higher odds of having a protocol (OR 1.12; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.23). Of the 19 SRs published in journals that endorse PROSPERO, 37% did not have a protocol. Most SR protocols were registered in PROSPERO (n=129; 96%).Conclusions: We found that only 38% of recently published SRs of interventions reported a registered or published protocol. Protocol registration was significantly associated with a higher impact factor of the journal publishing the SR and a more frequent reporting of use of PRISMA guidelines. In some parts of the world, SR protocols are more often registered or published than others. Further research is needed to gain understanding of the benefits and informativeness of SRs protocols amongst different stakeholders, to guide strategies to increase the uptake of SR protocol registration.Protocol registration: osf.io/9kj7r/
Helical Luttinger liquid on the edge of a 2-dimensional topological antiferromagnet
Authors: Feng Yang , Zhu Jinjiang , Lin Weiyan , Lian Zichen , Wang Yongchao , Li Hao , Pan Y. P. , Yao Hongxu , He Qiushi , Lin Yishi , Wu Yang , Zhang Jinsong , Wang Yayu , Zhou Xiaodong , Shen Jian , Wang Yihua
Published: March 2022

Helical Luttinger liquid (HLL) is a class of one-dimensional liquids with locked electron spin orientation and momentum. Boundary of a quantum spin Hall insulator is a good example of time-reversal symmetry (TRS) protected HLL, but its topological protection is compromised under finite magnetic field. Boundary HLL with broken bulk TRS belongs to a different topological class which may occur in antiferromagnets. The recently discovered van der Waals antiferromagnet (AFM) MnBi2Te4 offers rich topological band structures which critically relies on the magnetic structure and layer number. Here, we search for signatures of HLL on the edge of even-layer MnBi2Te4 thin flakes by combining magneto-transport and scanning superconducting quantum interference device microscopy. We directly image helical edge current in the AFM ground state appearing when the chemical potential was gated to the charge neutral point. Such helical edge state accompanies an insulating bulk which is topologically distinct from the ferromagnetic Chern insulator phase as revealed in a magnetic field driven quantum phase transition of the bulk. The edge conductance of the AFM order follows a power-law as a function of temperature and source-drain bias which serves as strong evidence for HLL. Such HLL scaling is robust at finite fields below the quantum critical point. The observed HLL in a layered AFM semiconductor represents a highly tunable topological matter compatible with future spintronics and quantum computation.
Evaluating the benefits of legacy phosphate
Authors: Barrow N Jim , Debnath Abhijit , Roy Dibakar
Published: March 2022

AimsMany soils in the developed world have been fertilised with phosphate for several decades. Appreciable phosphate has accumulated in such soils. This is referred to as “legacy P”. The benefits of legacy P are not widely appreciated.MethodsWe produced five levels of legacy P by incubating the soil with added phosphate at high temperatures for 30 days. We then measured the effect on sorption/desorption and on plant growth in response to further additions of phosphate.ResultsLegacy P decreased soil buffering capacity, decreased hysteresis of desorption, and increased the amount of P in a similar state to that of the recently sorbed P. There were analogous effects of plant growth; effectiveness of P fertiliser increased; the decline in effectiveness with time decreased; and the amount of soil P accessible to plants increased. We think that soil tests reflect only the amount of soil P accessible to plants. Soil testing services which include estimates of phosphate buffering reflect its decrease and the consequent increase in fertilizer effectiveness. We propose a simple test to reflect the rate of decline in effectiveness with time. ConclusionsManaging phosphate applications using soil tests alone underestimates phosphate status and leads to over application of phosphate. It is necessary to also include estimates of the change in phosphate buffering and the change in the rate of decline in effectiveness with time. A simple way estimating the rate of decline is suggested.
Detecting SARS-CoV-2 Variants in Wastewater and Their Correlation With Circulating Variants in the Communities
Authors: Li Lin , Uppal Timsy , Hartley Paul D. , Gorzalski Andrew , Pandori Mark , Picker Michael A. , Verma Subhash C. , Pagilla Krishna
Published: March 2022

Detection of SARS-CoV-2 viral load in wastewater has been highly informative in estimating the approximate number of infected individuals in the surrounding communities. Recent developments in wastewater monitoring to determine community prevalence of COVID-19 further extends into identifying SARS-CoV-2 variants, including those being monitored for having enhanced transmissibility. We sequenced genomic RNA derived from wastewater to determine the variants of coronaviruses circulating in the communities. Wastewater samples were collected from Truckee Meadows Water Reclamation Facility (TMWRF) from November 2021 to June 2021 were analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 variants and were compared with the variants detected in the clinical specimens (nasal/nasopharyngeal swabs) of infected individuals during the same period. The comparison was found to be conclusively in agreement. Therefore, wastewater monitoring for SARS-CoV-2 variants in the community is a feasible strategy both as a complementary tool to clinical specimen testing and in the latter's absence.
Is Age An Independent Prognostic Factor For Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Surgical Resection?
Authors: Ye Dongdong , Qiu Zhiyu , Shen Lujun , Chen Shuanggang , Fan Weijun
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To determine the optimal cutoff for age in predicting prognosis of HCC after surgical resection, and explore its impact on prognosis.Methods: From 1st January 2012 to 31st December 2015, medical records of patients with HCC and received radical resection were retrospectively reviewed. X-tile was utilized to determine the best cutoff. The primary endpoints were Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Cox regression analysis was used to discern independent prognostic factors.Results: 353 patients were enrolled, including 126 in young group (YG; age≤46) and 227 in elder group (EG; age>46), respectively. The YG got a significantly higher proportion of hepatitis B virus infection (p=0.029) and microvascular invasion (p=0.016). The 5-year DFS of YG was lower (38.1% vs. 47.6%，p= 0.046), while 5-year OS showed no significant difference (64.3% vs. 63.5%, p=0.58). Multivariate analysis showed that liver cirrhosis (HR=1.6, p=0.002) and microvascular invasion (HR=1.6, p=0.002) were the independent factors for DFS; microvascular invasion (HR=2.0, p<0.0001) and the tumor site (HR=1.6, p= 0.037) were the independent factors for OS. Age was neither an independent prognostic factor for DFS nor for OS [DFS: HR = 1.3 (0.9-1.7), p = 0.126; OS: HR = 1.1 (0.7-1.5), p = 0.734].
Molecular and clinical diversity in primary central nervous system lymphoma: a LOC Network study
Authors: Alentorn Agusti , Hernández-Verdin Isaias , Kirasic Eva , Wienand Kirsty , Eimer Sandrine , Loiseau Hugues , Rousseau Audrey , Paillassa Jérôme , Ahle Guido , Lerintiu Felix , Uro-Coste Emmanuelle , Oberic Lucie , Figarella-Branger Dominique , Chinot Olivier , Gauchotte Guillaume , Taillandier Luc , Marolleau Jean-Pierre , Polivka Marc , Adam Clovis , Ursu Renata , Schimitt Anna , Barillot Noemie , Nichelli Lucia , Lozano-Sánchez Fernando , Ibañez-Juliá Maria-José , Peyre Matthieu , Mathon Bertrand , Abada Yah-se , Charlotte Frederic , Davi Frédéric , Stewart Chip , de Reyniès Aurélien , Choquet Sylvain , Soussain Carole , Houillier Caroline , Chapuy Bjoern , Hoang-Xuan Khe
Published: March 2022

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a distinct extranodal lymphoma presenting with limited stage disease but variable response rates to treatment despite homogenous pathological presentation. The likely underlying molecular heterogeneity and its clinical impact is poorly understood.We performed a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of 147 PCNSL from fresh-frozen tumor tissue from immunocompetent, treatment naïve PCNSL patients, employing whole-exome sequencing, assessment of somatic copy number alterations and DNA methylation, and RNA expression. These data were integrated and correlated with the clinico-radiological characteristics and outcomes of the patients. We validated our results in an independent series of 93 PCNSL formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples.Consensus clustering of multi-omics data identified four robust, non-overlapping, prognostically significant clusters (CS) within PCNSL. The CS1 group, characterized by high proliferation and Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) complex activity had an intermediate outcome between CS2/CS3 and CS4. Patients who had PCNSL with an “immune-hot” (CS4) profile had the most favorable clinical outcome. In contrast, patients with the immune-cold hypermethylated CS2 and the heterogenous-immune CS3 groups had a poor prognosis. Nearly all PCNSL patients with meningeal infiltration harbored HIST1H1E mutations, enriched in the CS3 group. The integrated analysis suggests that the CS4 group may be more susceptible to immunotherapy. The integration of genome-wide data from multi-omics data revealed four molecular patterns in PCNSL with a distinctive prognostic impact that significantly improved the current clinical stratification. This molecular classification using FFPE samples facilitates routine use in clinical practice and provides potential precision-medicine strategies in PCNSL.
Weighted fidelity of delivery of an intervention in the health facility: a case of TB screening among PLHIV in selected hospitals in Ghana
Authors: Narh-Bana Solomon A , Kawonga Mary , Chirwa Esnat D , Odopey Selase Ofori , Bonsu Frank , Ibisomi Latifat , Chirwa Tobias F
Published: March 2022

BackgroundImplementation outcome assessment such as fidelity is essential in implementing health intervention. Limited studies that have been conducted have assessed fidelity separately at the healthcare provider level or facility level with managers. However, there might be variations in facility resources and their utilization, skewing such comparisons. We, therefore, would like to investigate whether a combined provider-facility level fidelity is a more effective assessment. We aim to describe the weighted fidelity of implementing the guidelines for TB screening among PLHIV and examine its effect on TB screening coverage at selected HIV clinics in Ghana.MethodsWe used cross-sectional study and collected data from 226 HIV care providers and 27 managers of district hospitals implementing the TB screening intervention at the HIV clinics. We also extracted information from TB registers monthly for 2018. Weighted fidelity was measured based on the extent to which the intervention was implemented, considering both the facility and the provider level assessments. Response scores and extracted data on fidelity were analyzed and summarized using the median and inter-quartile range for non-normal data such as fidelity scores and coverage and frequencies and percentages for categorical data such as resources availability. Linear regressions models were fitted for TB screening coverage using the fidelities separately.ResultsThe study revealed that the weighted fidelity median score was 67% (IQR: 59.9 – 74.9%), and the TB screening coverage was 71.3% (IQR: 56.9 – 96.7). Weighted fidelity of delivery was statistically associated with TB screening coverage (p<0.01). All the moderating factors investigated have no statistical association with weighted fidelity of delivery (p>0.05) except for IE&C. Facilities with TB IE&C materials available had a significantly (p=0.025) higher median fidelity score 75.4% (74.9 – 88.5) than their counterparts 65.7% (59.4 – 72.6).ConclusionsThe combined provider-facility level assessment of fidelity demonstrated that weighted fidelity of delivery is positively associated with TB screening coverage and provided a better platform for assessing implementation fidelity. It also showed that the availability of IE&C materials significantly moderates the weighted fidelity of delivery. Weighted fidelity is an efficient way of holistically assessing fidelity within health facilities.
Staging of Alveolar Echinococcosis with PET/CT: Prediction of Benzimidazole Therapy Duration in Inoperable Patients
Authors: Husmann Lars , Gruenig Hannes , Reiner Caecilia S. , Deibel Ansgar , Ledergerber Bruno , Liberini Virginia , Skawran Stephan , Muehlematter Urs J. , Messerli Michael , Hasse Barbara , Muellhaupt Beat , Huellner Martin W.
Published: March 2022

Alveolar echinococcosis is a rare parasitic disease, most frequently affecting the liver, as a slow-growing tumor-like lesion. If inoperable, long-term benzimidazole therapy is required, which is associated with high healthcare costs and occasionally with increased morbidity. The aim of our study was to determine the role 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in staging of patients with alveolar echinococcosis and to identify quantitative imaging parameters related to patient outcome and/or duration benzimidazole therapy. In this single-center retrospective cohort study, 47 PET/CT performed for staging in patients with confirmed alveolar echinococcosis were analysed. In 43 patients (91%) benzimidazole therapy was initiated and was successfully stopped after a median of 870 days (766-2517) in 14/43 patients (33%). In inoperable patients, tests for trend of survivor functions displayed clear trends for longer benzimidazole therapy duration (p=0.05; n=25), and for longer time intervals to reach non-detectable serum concentration of Em-18 antibodies (p= 0.01, n=15) across tertiles of SUVratio (maximum standardized uptake value in the echinococcus manifestation compared to normal liver tissue). Hence, in inoperable patients with alveolar echinococcosis, PET/CT performed for staging may predict the duration of benzimidazole therapy.
Redispersion of Pt nanoparticles encapsulated within ZSM-5 at high temperature oxygen for partial oxidation of methane
Authors: Wang tao , Ding chuanmin , Ma lichao , Ma zili , Yang meiru , Wang junwen , Zhang kan
Published: March 2022

Active metal agglomeration in heterogeneous catalysis is a crucial reason of catalyst deactivation. Consequently, many methods to inhibit the sintering by redispersing metal course have been widely studied. However, the redispersion conditions of catalysts with different structures may also be different. In our work, we prepared Pt/ZSM-5 and Pt@ZSM-5 catalysts to study that the redispersion of Pt under different pretreatment conditions. Characterizations demonstrate that only Pt@ZSM-5 (4R, 5O) implements Pt redispersion. The redispersion of Pt nanoparticles is due to the encapsulation constraint of the ZSM-5 as well as Ptδ+ species migrate at 500℃ oxygen atmosphere, which are anchored to the -(-O-Si≡)y site in ZSM-5 by strong metal support interaction. Benefiting from highly dispersed active sites, Pt@ZSM-5 (4R, 5O) catalyst also shows excellently catalytic activity, stability and anti-carbon deposition ability in partial oxidation of methane (POM). The results provide ideas for the preparation of catalysts for high temperature oxidation reaction.
Dynamic monitoring of flood disaster based on remote sensing data cube
Authors: Wang Zhicheng , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: March 2022

High-frequency dynamic monitoring of flood disaster using remote sensing technology is crucial for accurate decision-making of disaster prevention and relief. However, the current trade-off between spatial and temporal resolution of remote sensing sensors limits their application in high-frequency dynamic monitoring of flood disaster. To deal with this challenge, in this study, first, to construct the cloud-free MODIS data cube, we removed the cloudy areas in MODIS original data cube by using the information provided by GPM rainfall data. Then, we fused the cloud-free MODIS data cube and Landsat-8 data by using the spatio-temporal data fusion algorithm to construct the high spatio-temporal resolution (Landsat-like) data cube. Last, the high spatio-temporal resolution (Landsat-like) data cube was used for high-frequency dynamic monitoring of flood disaster. Our study had three main results: (1) The differences between cloud-free MODIS data cube and observations were small and the cloud-free MODIS data cube could be used for subsequent studies. (2) High spatio-temporal resolution (Landsatlike) data cube reflected the spatio-temporal changes of flood well and could be used for the highfrequency dynamic monitoring of flood disaster. (3) There were two floods occurred in the study area from July 17, 2021 to October 16, 2021. The first flood occurred from July 17, 2021 to September 15, 2021, with maximum affected area of 668.36 km 2 . The second flood occurred from September 18, 2021 to October 16, 2021, with maximum affected area of 303.88 km 2 . Our study provides a general method for high-frequency monitoring of flood disaster.
Investigation of the Effects of Heavy Metal Pollution on Surface Waters Before and During the COVID-19 Lockdown Periods in Bursa, Turkey
Authors: Sari Mehmet Ferhat , Esen Fatma
Published: March 2022

The first COVID-19 case in Turkey was reported on March 10, 2020, by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey. Due to the increasing number of cases, a curfew was declared on weekends as of 11–12 April 2020. Although curfews were only implemented on public holidays and weekends, there were reductions in industrial, traffic, and human activities. The restrictions and curfews implemented to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic are a unique opportunity to understand the effects of anthropogenic sources on water quality. In this study, it was aimed to determine the temporal variations of the concentration of seven heavy metals (HMs) (Fe, Mn, Cu, Al, Cr, Ni, and Zn) in surface waters before and during the COVID-19 lockdown period, and their carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks that may occur through digestion and dermal absorption. Surface water samples were taken from 14 different sampling points within the borders of Bursa (Turkey). HM concentrations except Ni increased at rates ranging from 7.92–83.33% during the COVID-19 lockdown period compared to before the COVID-19 lockdown period. The heavy metal pollution index and heavy metal evaluation index increased during the COVID-19 lockdown period compared to before the COVID-19 lockdown period. Also, according to the results regarding the carcinogenic risk that may occur via digestion and dermal absorption, serious risks were determined for adults and children in both periods. Generally, similar correlation coefficients were obtained in both sampling periods, and it was concluded that HMs were affected by similar sources.
FinTech-enabled-Endowment: A Proposed Financial Sustainability Model for NPHDIs
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , Meraj Muhammad , Mubarik M. Shujaat , Butt M. Wasie Fasih
Published: March 2022

IntroThe World’s Indigent Population’s socio-economic status has drawn the attention of the entire world for more than three decades. The Not-for-Profit Human Development Institutes (NPHDIs), aiming to serve this segment, faces Financial Sustainability as one of the major issues, as they are usually dependent on donors’ funds especially to run and finance their operations. If there is a shift in the donors’ donation preferences, then there is uncertainty in the fund generation forcing these organizations to get into turmoil, and this not only hampers their ability to serve but also challenges their survival and existence.MethodsThis study has been conducted in a two-fold research approach. Firstly, NPHDIs operating in Pakistan have been studied to evaluate their Financial Sustainability through Ratio Analysis based on Donor Dependent Ratio (DDR) and then, a FinTech integrated Financial Sustainability Model for NPHDIs has been proposed using Constructive Grounded Theory. ResultsFindings of the first phase shows there is a heavily reliant on donors funding with the DDR ranging from 100% to 91.73% based on a sample of ten randomly selected NPHDIs operating in Pakistan. Whereas, four main themes have been identified during the second phase, which has been articulated together to form FinTech-integrated Endowment – A proposed Financially Sustainable Model.ConclusionThe values of NPHDIs’ DDR are not less than 25%, so they are considered to be Financially Unsustainable. FinTech-enabled-Endowment is one main alternative to donors’ dependent funds, which can provide sustainable revenue streams for these NPHDIs based on Social Finance Theory.
Seasonal Gene Expression Profile Responsible For Hair Follicle Development In Angora Goats
Authors: KUL Bengi CINAR , Bilgen Nuket , Biskin Merve , Akkurt Mustafa Yenal , Cildir Ozge Sebnem , Ozmen Ozge , Kul Oguz
Published: March 2022

Background: Mammals have physiological reprogramming adaptation ability to changing seasonal light and temperature, through their biological clocks maintained by circadian rhythm, photoperiodism and thermoperiodism. These seasonal differences do not only affect vital activities of animals like migration, reproduction, sleeping, but also cause dramatic changes in their economically important characters (e.g. fur quality, fattening levels and milk yield). Mohair is constituted of non-medullary hairs produced by secondary hair follicles in Angora goats and the effects of seasonal differences on mohair structure and related genes are still unknown. Methods and Results: We examined the gene expression levels of BMP-2, FGF-5, HOXC13, KAP9.2 and TGFBR2 normalized with GAPDH in skin biopsies taken from Angora goats (n=20) in two different follicle development stages; telogen and anagen, sampled in February and June, respectively. HOXC13 showed high level of expression in anagen phase whereas expression was undetectable in telogen phase. TGFBR2, FGF-5, and BMP-2 were significantly upregulated in anagen, while KAP9.2 expression showed no difference between two phases.Conclusions: This is the first study on hair follicle-related genes in the angora goat and revealed that these genes differ between geographic zones and/or breeds. Additionally, we speculate that overexpression of HOXC13 might be one of the underlying factors associated with non-medullary hair nature, making the mohair more shiny and silky in Angora goats.
Postoperative Chemoradiotherapy In Patients With Locally Advanced Gastric Cancer With Poor Pathologic Response To Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Gal Omer , Lewin Ron , Perl Gali , Ulitzky Olga , Brenner Baruch , Kundel Yulia
Published: March 2022

Background: This study sought to evaluate the effect of postoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC) who respond poorly to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (ChT). Methods: The database of a tertiary medical center (2009-2019) was retrospectively reviewed for patients with LAGC in whom the initial treatment strategy consisted of perioperative ChT and surgery. Those who were subsequently referred for postoperative CRT because of a poor pathologic primary-tumor response (ypT3-4, ypN2-3, R1 resection) were selected for the study. CRT consisted of 45 Gy in 25 fractions of 1.8 Gy combined with capecitabine 825 mg/m² twice daily on radiotherapy days or continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil 180 mg/m²/day. Intensity-modulated radiation was planned using computed tomography simulation. Results: The cohort included 26 patients of median age 61 years with LAGC (clinical stage IIA-III) after surgery with D1-D2 lymphadenectomy. R0 resection was achieved in 15 (58%). Pathological stage was III in 69% (IIA-IVA); 73% had pT3-T4 tumors, and 65%, N2-N3 disease. Nineteen patients (73%) also received adjuvant ChT (same as neoadjuvant or different regimen) before postoperative CRT. Treatment was well tolerated, except in one patient with grade 4 vomiting. During a median follow-up time of 29 months (9-140 months), recurrences were documented in 14 patients (54%): 5 regional, 7 distant, 2 combined. Median progression-free survival was 23 months (10-140 months), and median overall survival was not reached. Estimated 5-year survival rates were 42% and 53%, respectively. Conclusions: This small retrospective study suggests that in patients with LAGC who show a poor pathologic response to neoadjuvant ChT, a good outcome relative to reference arms in randomized trials can still be achieved with the addition of postoperative CRT. Further studies of the benefit of a tailored adaptive treatment approach to LAGC based on the response to neoadjuvant ChT are warranted.
The Biota Orientalis Oil Extract, Epiitalis®, Is Efficacious At Reducing The Symptoms Of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot, Multi-Site, Dose-Ranging, Randomized, Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Mitchell Peter Geoffrey , Bright Corina , Bright Daniel , Srivast Shalini , Raote Sonal , Kumar Santosh
Published: March 2022

Objective: To explore the safety, and efficacy of a proprietary hydrolyzed oil extract from seeds of Biota orientalis (hBO/Epiitalis®, Interpath Pty Ltd) in patients with knee pain due to osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: Patients aged 40-65 with X-ray diagnosed knee OA and knee pain > 60 on a 100-point VAS (visual analog scale) were enrolled and randomized into four groups to receive daily hBO for 56 days as high (hBO-HD, 640 mg), mid (hBO-MD, 320 mg) or low (hBO-LD, 160 mg) doses, or a matched placebo oil. The primary outcome was change in VAS knee pain from baseline to 56 days in the mITT (modified intention to treat) population. Exploratory outcomes were the mWOMAC (modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index), and the SF-36 QoL (quality of life) questionnaire. The OMERACT-OARSI (Outcome Measures in Arthritis Clinical Trials–Osteoarthritis Research Society International) responder index was also calculated.Results: 223 patients were included in the mITT population. Reductions in VAS scores between baseline and day 56 [LS mean (95% C.I. LS mean)] were 36.4 (31.7 - 41.0), 37.9 (33.2 - 42.7), 35.7 (31.2 - 40.1) and 9.8 (14.5 -15.2) for the hBO-HD, hBO-MD, hBO-LD, and placebo groups respectively. The VAS changes in all hBO groups were significantly different (p < 0.0001) vs. changes in the placebo group. hBO treatment led to similar quantitative beneficial changes in mWOMAC, SF-36 and OMERACT-OARSI responder index. There were no SAEs and no adverse events ascribed to the intervention.Conclusion: In a 56-day trial, hBO was safe, and was efficacious at reducing symptoms in patients with knee OA. Registration: NCT04117490; Oct 7, 2019
Indigenous Language Shift and Maintenance in Shinasha Community
Authors: Techane Adugnaw
Published: March 2022

This paper discusses language shift and maintenance in Shinasha community. The purpose of this study is to assess language shift in Shinasha. More specifically, to identify the factors that lead some of the Shinasha people to use other languages, to show in which domain Shinasha language preferred and to indicate which language Shinasha people prefer in various domains. To collect the necessary data for the study, interview, questionnaire and focus group discussion were used as data collection instruments. The descriptive survey research design was used to conduct this study by using both quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis. The result showed that demography, economy, psychology and intermarriage are some of the major factors that led Shinasha people to shift from Shinasha to other indigenous languages. Amharic and Afan Oromo are used in various domains by Shinasha youths. On the other hand, a few elders speak Shinasha language. In general, in Shisha community youths prefer Amharic, Afan Oromo and Awngi in various domains bcause of economic, attitudinal, historical, demographic factors.
Protective mechanism of gold nanoparticles on human neural stem cells injured by β-amyloid protein
Authors: Wang Guoqing , Shen Xiangpeng , Song Xiangkong , Wang Ningfen , Wo Xuewen , Gao Yonglei
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with progressive memory loss in dementia. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were reported beneficial for human neural stem cells (hNSCs) treated with Amyloid-beta (Aβ), but the neuroprotective mechanisms still are unknown.
METHODS
Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was performed to detect hNSCs viability. The content of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assay. Immunocytochemistry was carried out to determinate Tuj-1 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). The reactive oxygen species (ROS) and JC-1 assay kits were performed to detect ROS generation and mitochondrial membrane potential. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot assessments were also used to detect related gene expression intracellularly or in the supernatant.
RESULTS
The pro-inflammation IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly decreased in the AuNPs co-treatment group. AuNPs could ameliorate neural stem cell differentiation inhibition due to Aβ accumulation. AuNPs co-treatment repressed the high expression of total tau (T-tau), phosphorylated tau (P-tau), and Aβ protein caused by the Aβ treatment. The apoptosis rate of hNSCs induced by Aβ was inhibited by AuNPs co-treatment and the expression of proteins associated with apoptosis was also reduced in AuNPs co-treatment group. Aβ-induced decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondria in the hNSCs were damaged, while AuNPs co-treatment showed the protective effect on mitochondrial membrane potential. Co-treatment with AuNPs significantly increased dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) mRNA level. AuNPs may improve mitochondrial function impairment due to Aβ by elevating mitochondrial membrane potential, upregulating regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis, and inhibiting ROS production. hNSCs transfected with miR-21-5p inhibitor reversed AuNPs mediated cytoprotection induced by Aβ. miR-21-5p was involved in AuNPs protecting against Aβ-induced cell toxicity by reduced mitochondrial function.
CONCLUSION
AuNPs can protect hNSCs from Aβ injury by up-regulating miR-21-5p and protecting mitochondrial function.
THAP7-AS1 recruits the SWI/SNF to activate EGFR-ELK1 signaling and induce crosstalk between tumor-associated macrophages and breast cancer cells
Authors: Liu Hai-Ting , Gao Zhao-Xin , zhang Guo-Hao , Guo Xiang-Yu , Zhou Xing-Chen , Zhao Rui-Nan , Liu Sen , Zhu Wen-Jie , Zhang Feng-Zhen , Wang Han , Zhao Chuan-Zong , Wang Xiao , Gao Peng
Published: March 2022

Background
Accumulating evidence indicates that the crosstalk between tumor cells and the microenvironment influences human cancer progression. However, the expression pattern, function role in the crosstalk between tumor cells and tumor microenvironment, and underlying mechanism of lncRNAs-related tumorigenesis in breast cancer are unknown.
Methods
The expression lncRNA-THAP7-AS1 in breast cancer (BC) were identified by in BC tissues. The functional roles of THAP7-AS1 were confirmed by in vitro and in vivo experiments. RNA-pulldown followed by mass spectrometry, RNA Immunoprecipitation (RIP), chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays and luciferase reporter assay revealed the mechanisms of THAP7-AS1 in BC. RT-qPCR, ELISA assays, Flow cytometry, ChIP assays and luciferase reporter assay elucidated the crosstalk between tumor cells and (tumor-associated macrophages) TAMs.
Results
Here, we demonstrate that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) THAP7-AS1 induces polarization of macrophages to the M2 phenotype in an IL-4-dependent manner, and M2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) secreted IL-10, which then facilitates the progression of breast cancer (BC). Mechanistically, THAP7-AS1 promoted the combination between SNF2H, SNF2L, and BAF155 and recruited the SWI/SNF complex to the promoter of EGFR to upregulate its expression, and then induced IL-4-mediated M2 polarization of macrophages via activation of the EGFR-ELK1 signaling. Reciprocally, IL-10 released from M2 TAMs upregulates CEBP-β-dependent P300 expression, and then P300, synergistically worked with c-MYC and upregulated THAP7-AS1 expression in BC cells, which constituting a feed-forward loop between tumor cells and TAMs. Moreover, THAP7-AS1 knockdown inhibits the invasion, metastasis and M2 macrophage polarization of breast cancer in vivo.
Conclusions
Our study highlights the role of THAP7-AS1 in the regulation crosstalk between TAM and tumor cells in BC progression and may provide a novel therapeutic target for BC treatment.
Cryopreservation and validation of differentiated PDGFRα-positive cells for long term usage in experimentation
Authors: Srivast Ankita , Rajan Reeja , Abdallah Sallam Hasan , Khan Amir Ali , Mussa Bashair M.
Published: March 2022

Background
Differentiation of immortalized Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (iMSCs) into PDGFRα-positive cells under controlled growth conditions has several vital implications in functional studies concerned with the pathogenesis of Diabetic Gastroparesis (DGP). Recently, we have demonstrated the importance of these cells as a novel, in-vitro model for investigating the functional role of neuronal nitric oxide synthase. The currently available methods require fresh differentiation of PDGFRα-positive cells for each round of experimentation. This leads to longer delays, higher usage of reagents, and inconsistency in the reproducibility of experiments frequently. To overcome these challenges, we have developed a novel and detailed protocol for maintaining and cryopreserving the iMSC-derived PDGFRα-positive cells for functional investigations. These cells can be thawed and used per the experimental requirements with prolonged preservation of their characteristics.
Results
We first assessed the viability of differentiated PDGFRα-positive cells and observed a non-significant difference between pre-and post-freezing procedures, indicating that there was no loss of capacity due to long-term storage. Consequently, we validated their functional characteristics using flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, and western blotting.
Conclusions
Based on the obtained outcomes, we propose cryopreserved differentiated PDGFRα-positive cells as a feasible model for experimental reproducibility. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to use the present methodology, which provides novel technical solutions and can be advantageous in studying gastrointestinal disorders such as DGP.
Acute multifocal retinitis in a patient with Q fever (Coxiella Burnetii infection) with endocarditis
Authors: Mahmoud Anis , Abid Fatma , Khairallah Molka , Affes Sofien , Mbarek Sameh , Amor Hassen Ibn Hadj , Khalifa Anis Ben Hadj , Messaoud Riadh , Khairallah Moncef
Published: March 2022

ObjectiveTo report acute multifocal retinitis in association with serologically-proven Coxiella (C) Burnetii infection (Q fever) with endocarditis. Material and methodsA single case report documented with multimodal imaging.ResultsA 67-year-old cattle breeder presented with a 2-week history of persistent fever, headache, and floaters in both eyes. On examination, his best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20, and there was 1+ vitreous cells in both eyes. Bilateral fundus examination showed multiple small superficial white retinal lesions scattered in the posterior pole and midperiphery associated with a few retinal hemorrhages. These retinal lesions did not stain on fluorescein angiography (FA) and showed focal hyperreflectivity and thickening primarily involving the inner retinal layers on optical coherence tomography (OCT). There also was a band-like hyper-reflective area in the middle retina consistent with paramacular acute middle maculopathy. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed a mobile echodensity on the anterior aortic leaflet consistent with a diagnosis of endocarditis. Elisa assays performed on paired serum samples collected 2 weeks apart showed increase in antibodies against C burnetii from 60 IU/ml to 255 IU/ml. The patient was treated with doxycycline 100 mg twice a day for 18 months, with subsequent resolution of the endocarditis. Sequential ocular examinations showed gradual resolution of all acute retinal findings without visible scars.Conclusion: Acute Q fever, caused by C burnetii infection, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute multifocal retinitis. A systematic cardiac assessment with echocardiography is essential for early diagnosis of associated endocarditis and for prompt administration of appropriate antibiotic treatment to improve clinical outcomes.
Minimum data set and educational content required to design a mobile-based nutrition education application for women with infertility in Iran
Authors: Langarizadeh Mostafa , Najarzadeh Azadeh , Maghsoudi Banafshe , aghda Seyed Ali Fatemi
Published: March 2022

Background
Infertility is one of the major health problems causing many problems and challenges for the couples and society. Given the worldwide exponential rise of infertility, mobile phone-based applications are drastic ways to deliver nutrition educational contents to women with infertility. The present study aimed to prepare the required educational contents for designing a mobile phone-based nutrition educational application for women with infertility.
Methods
Educational contents were initially determined based on the literature review and library resources. The collected information was used to design a researcher-made questionnaire containing 28 items in six dimensions. Later, 15 nutrition and five infertility specialists, selected via purposeful sampling, were asked to complete the questionnaire about the necessary information to be included in the software. Content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed using a panel of experts including medical informatics, health information management, nutritionists, and infertility specialists, who reviewed the items, made some revisions, and confirmed the final contents. Reliability of the questionnaire was also corroborated using the KR-20 coefficient (0.89).
Results
According to the specialists, the amount of consumed calories per meal and the interval between meals were not significantly effective on fertility. Other factors such as main definitions, disease and treatment instructions, personal activities and habits, and menstruation were deemed necessary by the respondents. Participants also suggested adding an introduction on different types of diets, users' suggestions and opinions, and introduction of senior nutrition centers to the questionnaire.
Conclusions
Followed by obtaining the required valid and reliable contents, a mobile phone- based nutrition education application can be designed to improve the patients' awareness and facilitate their treatment process.
Re-exposure with a TNF inhibitor bio-similar was well tolerated and lead to sustained control of psoriatic arthritis after allergic reaction to the TNF inhibitor bio-originator
Authors: Valor-Méndez Larissa , Dorn Carla , Manger Bernhard , Schett Georg , Kleyer Arnd
Published: March 2022

Background: Infliximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody against tumour necrosis factor (TNF) α is approved for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treatment. Infliximab is available as an originator (Remicade®) and as biosimilar (CT-P13, Remsima®, Inflectra®; SB2, Flixabi®). Case presentation: We present a 38-year-old Caucasian female diagnosed with PsA in 2009 with skin and joint symptoms. After multiple failed treatments including methotrexate, adalimumab, etanercept, certolizumab pegol and secukinumab, the patient was started on infliximab (Flixabi®). After 6 months, symptoms recurred and the patient was switched to infliximab (Remsima®) causing an allergic reaction. Based on the initial response to infliximab (Flixabi®) it was reintroduced. The patient did not develop any allergic reaction and responded excellently reaching controlled disease after 8 weeks with ongoing improvement of symptoms thereafter. Conclusions: The reasons for the differential response to different infliximab products is unclear and may not necessarily be related to the antibody itself. While switching between bio-originator and bio-similar is widely practiced, we could not find another documented case of an allergic reaction to the infliximab bio-originator being exposed to an infliximab bio-similar later on.
A Generic Solution of Fermion Sign Problem
Authors: Sun D. Y. , Wang J.
Published: March 2022

The fermion sign problem, the biggest obstacle in quantum Monte Carlo calculations, is completely solved in this paper. Here, we find a strategy, in which the contribution from those negative-weighted paths is thoroughly cancelled or replaced by some positive-weighted paths. The crucial point lies on the Feynman path integral formula proposed in our group, which allows us to deeply analyze the Boltzmann weight of each path. Through mathematical proof, we demonstrate that physical quantities can be exactly calculated within a specific wavefunction space, in which all paths have positive Boltzmann weight. With this finding, a new Monte Carlo method is proposed, in which the fermion sign problem is absent. As an example, the current method is applied to the two-dimensional Hubbard model, and the results do manifest the correctness. *Corresponding author: dysun@phy.ecnu.edu.cn
Spontaneous rectus sheath hematoma associated with apixaban in an elderly gentleman with chronic obstructive airway disease
Authors: Wong Cheuk-Lik , So Clarence Hao-Yu
Published: March 2022

Background
Rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is a relatively uncommon cause of acute abdominal pain and can be mistaken as other surgical causes of acute abdomen. A diagnosis requires high index of suspicion especially in susceptible patients, for example, in patients on anticoagulation. While anticoagulation is the commonest risk factor for RSH, direct-acting oral anticoagulants have only been very recently implicated as a potential cause with fewer than ten cases reported in the literature.
Case presentation:
An 82-year-old Chinese man with chronic obstructive airway disease, ischemic heart disease, heart failure and atrial fibrillation on apixaban presenting with acute onset of lower abdominal pain. Physical examination showed peritoneal signs with tenderness and guarding over the lower quadrants with hypotension. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen confirmed a large rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) without active extravasation. He was given fluid resuscitation and was managed successfully with supportive treatment and cessation of apixaban. A follow-up CT two months later showed resolving hematoma and aspirin was resumed primarily for ischemic heart disease. The patient tolerated anti-platelet therapy without recurrence of RSH. The risk factors, treatment options, prognosis and issue related to anticoagulation resumption after an episode of RSH are discussed. Reported cases of RSH associated with direct-acting oral anticoagulants are reviewed.
Conclusions
Direct-acting oral anticoagulant-associated rectus sheath hematoma is rare. With increasing use of direct-acting oral anticoagulants in multiple clinical settings, clinicians should remain vigilant of this potentially life-threatening bleeding complication when a patient presents with acute abdominal pain. Conservative treatment with cessation of anti-coagulant and supportive transfusion remains the mainstay of treatment.
Multi Expression Programming for solving classification problems
Authors: Oltean Mihai
Published: March 2022

Multi Expression Programming (MEP) is a Genetic Programming variant that encodes multiple solutions in a single chromosome. This paper introduces and deeply describes several strategies for solving binary and multi-class classification problems within the multi solutions per chromosome paradigm of MEP. Extensive experiments on various classification problems are performed. MEP shows similar or better performances than other methods used for comparison (namely Artificial Neural Networks and Linear Genetic Programming).
Mapping COVID-19 related research from Vietnam: a scoping review
Authors: Dao Thi Loi , To Minh Manh , Nguyen The Diep , Hoang Van Thuan
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The situation of COVID-19 pandemic is becoming more complex. The research institutes should focus on the most important challenge related to this outbreak at the national level. We aim to realize this scoping review to map publications on COVID-19 in Vietnam in order to guide research priorities and policies in the country.Methods: This study was conducted at the Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, from May to August 2020, according to the guidance for conducting systematic scoping review. Results: A total of 72 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most frequent publications were original articles (27.8%), followed by letter to editor/correspondence (26.4%). According to the research priorities for COVID-19 set by the WHO, 41.7% studies focused on control and prevention of COVID-19, but none of studies on personal protective equipment or protocol for healthcare workers’ safety were conducted. 12.5% studies carried out a thorough investigation into epidemiology of the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam. Virology and genomics, natural history of the virus and its transmission in Vietnam were described by 18.1% papers. Only one study was conducted in terms of development for candidate therapeutics.Conclusion: We call for national investigation on treatment against SARS-CoV-2 and protocol for medical staff protection. The government and academic institutions should work in collaboration with international stakeholders, including the WHO, to combat together the COVID-19.