bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Roles of IL‐1 and IL‐10 family cytokines in the progression of systemic lupus erythematosus: Friends or foes?
Authors: Wu Yi‐Rou , Hsing Chung‐Hsi , Chiu Chiao‐Juno , Huang Hsin‐Yi , Hsu Yu‐Hsiang 
Published: October 2021

AbstractSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology that can affect nearly every organ system in the body. Besides genetic and environmental factors, unbalanced pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines contribute to immune dysregulation, trigger an inflammatory response, and induce tissue and organ damage. Inflammatory responses in SLE can be promoted and/or maintained by the availability of cytokines that are overproduced systemically and/or in local tissues. Several key cytokines have been considered potential targets for the reduction of chronic inflammation in SLE. Recent studies indicated that dysregulated production of several cytokines, including those of the IL‐1 family and IL‐10 family, orchestrate immune activation and self‐tolerance, play critical roles in the pathogenesis of SLE. Among IL‐1 family cytokines, IL‐1, IL‐18, IL‐33, IL‐36, IL‐37, and IL‐38 had been the most thoroughly investigated in SLE. Additionally, IL‐10 family cytokines, IL‐10, IL‐20, IL‐22, IL‐26, IL‐28, and IL‐29 are dysregulated in SLE. Therefore, a better understanding of the initiation and progression of SLE may provide suitable novel targets for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we discuss the involvement of inflammation in the pathogenesis of SLE, with a focus on IL‐1 family and IL‐10 family cytokines, and highlight pathophysiological approaches and therapeutic potential for treating SLE.
Incidence of psycho‐social well‐being in a rural community of South Africa
Authors: Koen Vicki , Robertson Neville , Tsabedze Wandile 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThis article explores the incidence of psychosocial well‐being within Lokaleng; a rural community located in the North West province of South Africa. While the community is unique, it shares similarities with many other rural communities in South Africa, such as being deprived of various resources and being impoverished, indicating a need to explore the incidence of psychosocial well‐being in this community as there has been no research on this phenomenon in this community specifically. A quantitative, cross‐sectional design was employed. A purposive sample of adult community members (n = 189) completed a battery of validated questionnaires and data were analyzed with the IBM SPSS Statistics 26 software package. The results are indicative that the sample experienced lower levels of psychosocial well‐being, which supports similar findings of other South African studies that rural communities tend to report lower levels of psychosocial well‐being.
N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) differentially affects arterial medial calcification and bone formation: The role ofl‐cysteine and hydrogen sulphide
Authors: Bourne Lucie E. , Patel Jessal J. , Davies Bethan K. , Neven Ellen , Verhulst Anja , D'Haese Patrick C. , Wheeler‐Jones Caroline P. D. , Orriss Isabel R. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractArterial medial calcification (AMC) is the deposition of calcium phosphate in the arteries. AMC is widely thought to share similarities with physiological bone formation; however, emerging evidence suggests several key differences between these processes.N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) displays antioxidant properties and can generate hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and glutathione (GSH) from its deacetylation tol‐cysteine. This study found that NAC exerts divergent effects in vitro, increasing osteoblast differentiation and bone formation by up to 5.5‐fold but reducing vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) calcification and cell death by up to 80%. In vivo, NAC reduced AMC in a site‐specific manner by 25% but had no effect on the bone. The actions ofl‐cysteine and H2S mimicked those of NAC; however, the effects of H2S were much less efficacious than NAC andl‐cysteine. Pharmacological inhibition of H2S‐generating enzymes did not alter the actions of NAC orl‐cysteine; endogenous production of H2S was also unaffected. In contrast, NAC andl‐cysteine increased GSH levels in calcifying VSMCs and osteoblasts by up to 3‐fold. This suggests that the beneficial actions of NAC are likely to be mediated via the breakdown ofl‐cysteine and the subsequent GSH generation. Together, these data show that while the molecular mechanisms driving the actions of NAC appear similar, the downstream effects on cell function differ significantly between osteoblasts and calcifying VSMCs. The ability of NAC to exert these differential actions further supports the notion that there are differences between the development of pathological AMC and physiological bone formation. NAC could represent a therapeutic option for treating AMC without exerting negative effects on bone.
Sensory structures on the antenna of soldier and worker castes of the termite species Odontotermes parvidens (Termitidae: Isoptera: Blattaria)
Authors: Das Khirod Sankar , Marwein Cynthia Bansara , Nonglait K. Chanreila L. , Choudhury Sudipta 
Published: October 2021

AbstractOdontotermes parvidens is a commonly found important pest species of termite that primarily feed on a range of cellulosic sources. In termites, communication among the nestmates is the basis of all their daily activities and the sensory structures present on the sensory appendages play a crucial role in different social behaviors perceiving and processing various signals of the nestmates and external environments. So, it is essential to understand in detail their sensory structures in order to understand the sensory system of the species O. parvidens. Thus, we have studied the antenna which is one of the primary sensory appendages of both soldier and worker individuals of the species to elucidate various antennal sensory structures and their distribution using scanning electron microscopy. Based on the morphological features of various sensilla, we observed seven types of sensilla as sensilla chaetica (subtypes I, II, III, and IV), sensilla trichodea (subtypes I and II), sensilla trichodea curvata (subtypes I and II), sensilla basiconica, sensilla capitula, Böhm bristles, and sensilla campaniformia (subtypes I and II) along with numerous glandular pores on the antenna of soldier and worker castes. We have also discussed the putative functions of all the sensilla observed based on their external morphology and distributional characteristics on the antenna of soldier and worker castes of the species O. parvidens. Furthermore, the abundance of sensillar types on the antenna of both the castes has also been discussed.
Japanese women's reasons for accompaniment status to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer‐focused genetic counseling
Authors: Matsukawa Manami , Torishima Masako , Satoh Chika , Honda Sayaka , Kosugi Shinji 
Published: October 2021

AbstractGenetic counselors routinely assess and understand clients’ needs at the beginning of a session. Attending a genetic counseling session with or without companions is an objective sign that genetic counselors can easily notice. This study focused on clients’ reasons for their accompaniment status for genetic counseling, which we categorize into attending with or without a companion(s). A questionnaire survey and interviews were conducted using snowball sampling, starting with the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Japanese hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) support group. Of 32 participants, 19 continued with an in‐depth interview after answering the questionnaire. Five themes were identified from the interview: (1) personal confidence, (2) decision‐making style, (3) family members’ habits and time availability, (4) considerations and conflicts with family members, and (5) healthcare provider's suggestion. Our data suggested that the clients expected their companion(s) to play certain roles. This indicates that the reasons of accompaniment status will be helpful for genetic counselors to understand both clients’ and their families’ motivations, personalities, habits, and psychosocial backgrounds. In a high‐context culture such as that of Japan, accompaniment status may be a helpful sign to understand clients’ true worries. In addition, some companions may be future clients in genetic counseling, due to the genetic nature of the disease. In conclusion, our study indicated that it is important for genetic counselors to record accompaniment status before the initial genetic counseling and to pay attention to its reasons at the beginning of the session, which may lead them to understand the client's psychosocial background to facilitate better client‐centered genetic counseling.
Declining HIV incidence in sub‐Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of empiric data
Authors: Joshi Keya , Lessler Justin , Olawore Oluwasolape , Loevinsohn Gideon , Bushey Sophrena , Tobian Aaron A R , Grabowski M Kate 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIntroductionUNAIDS models suggest HIV incidence is declining in sub‐Saharan Africa. The objective of this study was to assess whether modelled trends are supported by empirical evidence.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of adult HIV incidence data from sub‐Saharan Africa by searching Embase, Scopus, PubMed and OVID databases and technical reports published between 1 January 2010 and 23 July 2019. We included prospective and cross‐sectional studies that directly measured incidence from blood samples. Incidence data were abstracted according to population risk group, geographic location, sex, intervention arm and calendar period. Weighted regression models were used to assess incidence trends across general population studies by sex. We also identified studies reporting greater than or equal to three incidence measurements since 2010 and assessed trends within them.ResultsTotal 291 studies, including 22 sub‐Saharan African countries, met inclusion criteria. Most studies were conducted in South Africa (n = 102), Uganda (n = 46) and Kenya (n = 41); there were 26 countries with no published incidence data, most in western and central Africa. Data were most commonly derived from prospective observational studies (n = 163; 56%) and from geographically defined populations with limited demographic or risk‐based enrolment criteria other than age (i.e., general population studies; n = 151; 52%). Across general population studies, average annual incidence declines since 2010 were 0.12/100 person‐years (95% CI: 0.06–0.18; p = 0.001) among men and 0.10/100 person‐years (95% CI: −0.02–0.22; p = 0.093) among women in eastern Africa, and 0.25/100 person‐years (95% CI: 0.17–034; p < 0.0001) among men and 0.42/100 person‐years (95% CI: 0.23–0.62; p = 0.0002) among women in southern Africa. In nine of 10 studies with multiple measurements, incidence declined over time, including in two studies of key populations. Across all population risk groups, the highest HIV incidence estimates were observed among men who have sex with men, with rates ranging from 1.0 to 15.4/100 person‐years. Within general population studies, incidence was typically higher in women than men with a median female‐to‐male incidence rate ratio of 1.47 (IQR: 1.11 to 1.83) with evidence of a growing sex disparity over time.ConclusionsEmpirical incidence data show the rate of new HIV infections is declining in eastern and southern Africa. However, recent incidence data are non‐existent or very limited for many countries and key populations.
DC and RF/analog parameters in Ge‐source split drain‐ZHP‐TFET: Drain and pocket engineering technique
Authors: Saha Rajesh , Panda Deepak Kumar , Goswami Rupam , Bhowmick Brinda , Baishya Srimanta 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIn this article, a Ge‐source is employed in split drain Z‐shaped line TFET structure (SD‐ZHP‐TFET) and named as Ge‐source SD‐ZHP‐TFET. The presence of split drain increases the tunnel width at interface of channel–drain, which reduces the ambipolar current (IAMB). Also, the horizontal pocket at source region and the Ge‐source boost the ON current (ION) of the SD‐ZHP‐TFET. A comparative study in terms of transfer characteristic, current ratio (ION/IOFF and ION/IAMB), transconductance (gm), and cut off frequency (fc) among ZHP, SD‐ZHP, and Ge‐source SD‐ZHP TFETs are highlighted through TCAD simulator. We have reported DC and RF/analog figure of merits (FoM) for the variation in thickness of horizontal pocket (thp) and doping concentration (Nhp) in the horizontal pocket region by plotting transfer characteristic, gm, and fc for Ge‐source SD‐ZHP‐TFET. Furthermore, the impact of drain doping concentration of region 1 (Ndu) and region 2 (Ndl) on transfer characteristic, IOFF, IAMB, gm, Cgg, and fc are studied in proposed TFET. The Ge‐source SD‐ZHP‐TFET provides ION/IOFF and ION/IAMB in the order of 109 and 1011, respectively. Moreover, Ge‐source SD‐ZHP‐TFET has maximum gm and maximum fc at higher value of thp, Nhp, Ndu, and Ndl. It is also seen that the proposed device shows an improved RF/analog and DC characteristic even with scaling down of gate bias (VG). Finally, the various parameters of Ge‐source SD‐ZHP‐TFET is compared with the data exist in the literature.
Biogeochemical limitations of carbon stabilization in forest subsoils#
Authors: Liebmann Patrick , Mikutta Robert , Kalbitz Karsten , Wordell‐Dietrich Patrick , Leinemann Timo , Preusser Sebastian , Mewes Ole , Perrin Eike , Bachmann Jörg , Don Axel , Kandeler Ellen , Marschner Bernd , Schaarschmidt Frank , Guggenberger Georg 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundSoils are important carbon (C) sinks or sources and thus of utmost importance for global carbon cycling. Particularly, subsoils are considered to have a high potential for additional C storage due to mineral surfaces still available for sorptive stabilization.AimsLittle information exists about the extent to which additional litter‐derived C is transferred to and stabilized in subsoils. This study aimed at evaluating the role of litter‐derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) inputs for the formation of stable mineral‐associated C in subsoils.MethodsWe carried out a multiple‐method approach including field labeling with13C‐enriched litter, exposure of13C‐loaded reactive minerals to top‐ and subsoils, and laboratory sorption experiments.ResultsFor temperate forest soils, we found that the laboratory‐based C sink capacity of subsoils is unlikely to be reached under field conditions. Surface C inputs via litter leachates are little conducive to the subsoil C pool. Only 0.5% of litter‐derived C entered the subsoil as DOM within nearly 2 years and most of the recently sorbed C is prone to fast microbial mineralization rather than long‐term mineral retention. Desorption to the soil solution and an adapted microbial community re‐mobilize organic matter in subsoils faster than considered so far.ConclusionsWe conclude that the factors controlling the current mineral retention and stabilization of C within temperate forest subsoils will likewise limit additional C uptake. Thus, in contrast to their widely debated potential to accrue more C, the role of forest subsoils as future C sink is likely overestimated and needs further reconsideration.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of 2d Size‐Polydisperse Fluid Close to the Freezing Transition
Authors: Pame Jackson , Shagolsem Lenin S. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe effect of particle size‐polydispersity on the static equilibrium properties of a model 2d‐fluid is studied considering two types of size‐distributions, namely, Gaussian (G) and uniform (U) using computer simulations. In this study, constant NPT molecular dynamics simulations is performed and the results are compared with that of the corresponding size‐monodisperse fluid. In particular, the effect of size‐disparity on the liquid‐solid transition, local and global particle ordering around the freezing/melting transition is investigated. It is found that the transition temperature (T*) is elevated by the introduction of size polydispersity in the system. The value of global hexatic order parameter for polydisperse systems is far below 50%, while it is around 80% for size‐monodisperse fluid at the respective T*.
A +3 variant at a donor splice site leads to a skipping of the MYH11 exon 32, a recurrent RNA defect causing Heritable Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection and/or Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Authors: Chesneau Bertrand , Plancke Aurélie , Rolland Guillaume , Marcheix Bertrand , Dulac Yves , Edouard Thomas , Plaisancié Julie , Aubert‐Mucca Marion , Julia Sophie , Langeois Maud , Lavabre‐Bertrand Thierry , Khau Van Kien Philippe 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundPathogenic variants in MYH11 are associated with either heritable thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (HTAAD), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) syndrome, or megacystis‐microcolon‐intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS).Methods and ResultsWe report a family referred for molecular diagnosis with HTAAD/PDA phenotype in which we found a variant at a non‐conserved position of the 5’ donor splice site of intron 32 of MYH11 potentially altering splicing (NM_002474.3:c.4578+3A>C). Although its cosegregation with disease was observed, it remained of unknown significance. Later, aortic surgery in the proband gave us the opportunity to perform a transcript analysis. This showed a skipping of the exon 32, an RNA defect previously reported to be translated to an in‐frame loss of 71 amino acids and a dominant‐negative effect in the smooth muscle myosin rod. This RNA defect is also reported in 3 other HTAAD/PDA pedigrees.ConclusionThis report confirms that among rare variants in MYH11, skipping of exon 32 is recurrent. This finding is of particular interest to establish complex genotype–phenotype correlations where some alleles are associated with autosomal dominant HTAAD/PDA, while others result in recessive or dominant visceral myopathies.
A wideband filtering Wilkinson power divider integrated with good harmonic suppression
Authors: Qaedrahmati Amirhossein , Sheikhi Akram , Abdipour Abdolali 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIn this paper, a wideband filtering Wilkinson power divider embedded with square‐loop resonators and short‐circuit stubs is designed and presented. Shunt short‐circuit meander line stubs are utilized at both output ports to provide extra transmission zeros (TZs) at 7, 14, and 19 GHz. Moreover, the square‐loop resonators, which are placed along the conventional λ/4 transmission lines, provide TZs at 9 and 14 GHz. Over the frequency range from 3 to 6 GHz, insertion loss of 0.3 dB, return loss greater than 12 dB and isolation better than 10 dB have been obtained. The proposed power divider has a compact size of 0.237 λg × 0.415 λg. Finally, the proposed circuit has been fabricated, and the measurement results have a good agreement with the simulation results.
Interpretation of CPT in unsaturated sands under drained conditions: A numerical study
Authors: Keshmiri Ehsan , Ahmadi Mohammad Mehdi 
Published: October 2021

AbstractA finite difference‐based numerical model simulating the cone penetration process in unsaturated sands is presented. Mohr–Coulomb model (MCM) with simple modifications and Sun model (SM) were implemented to capture the unsaturated sand behaviour. It was shown that the cone tip resistance values resulting from the two models were fairly comparable. Predicted cone tip resistance values in dry, saturated and unsaturated sands using MCM were validated by the results of field and calibration chamber tests. Sensitivity analyses were performed, and the influence of parameters including relative density, mean effective stress and apparent cohesion due to suction on the tip resistance was investigated. Based on a large number of numerical analyses, a simple relationship was suggested to predict the cone tip resistance in dry, saturated and unsaturated sands. The accuracy of the proposed relationship was evaluated by a large database of Cone penetration test (CPT) results performed in various calibration chambers containing different sands. Finally, the applicability of the suggested equation in the estimation of the soil relative density and friction angle from CPT results was shown through useful and practical charts and illustrative examples.
Racial and ethnic representation among a sample of nutrition‐ and obesity‐focused professional organizations in the United States
Authors: Carson Tiffany L. , Cardel Michelle I. , Stanley Takara L. , Grinspoon Steven , Hill James O. , Ard Jamy , Mayer‐Davis Elizabeth , Stanford Fatima Cody 
Published: October 2021

AbstractObjectiveObesity is a chronic disease that disproportionately affects individuals from nonmajority racial/ethnic groups in the United States. Research shows that individuals from minority racial/ethnic backgrounds consider it important to have access to providers from diverse backgrounds. Health care providers and scientists from minority racial/ethnic groups are more likely than their non‐Hispanic White counterparts to treat or conduct research on patients from underrepresented groups. The objective of this study was to characterize the racial/ethnic diversity of nutrition‐ and obesity‐focused professional organizations in the United States.MethodsThis study assessed race/ethnicity data from several obesity‐focused national organizations including The Obesity Society, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), the American Society for Nutrition, and the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM). Each organization was queried via emailed survey to provide data on racial/ethnic representation among their membership in the past 5 years and among elected presidents from 2010 to 2020.ResultsTwo of the three professional societies queried did not systematically track race/ethnicity data at the time of query. Limited tracking data available from AND show underrepresentation of Black (2.6%), Asian (3.9%), Latinx (3.1%), Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (1.3%), or indigenous (American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0.3%) individuals compared with the US population. Underrepresentation of racial/ethnic minorities was also reported for ABOM diplomates (Black: 6.0%, Latinx: 5.0%, Native American: 0.2%). Only AND reported having racial/ethnic diversity (20%) among the organization’s presidents within the previous decade (2010–2020).ConclusionsFindings suggest that (1) standardized tracking of race and ethnicity data is needed to fully assess diversity, equity, and inclusion, and (2) work is needed to increase the diversity of membership and leadership at the presidential level within obesity‐ and nutrition‐focused professional organizations. A diverse cadre of obesity‐ and nutrition‐focused health care professionals is needed to further improve nutrition‐related health outcomes, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and undernutrition, in this country.