bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in DNA methylation hallmark alterations in chromatin accessibility and gene expression for eye lens differentiation
Authors: Disatham Joshua , Brennan Lisa , Jiao Xiaodong , Ma Zhiwei , Hejtmancik J. Fielding , Kantorow Marc 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
Methylation at cytosines (mCG) is a well-known regulator of gene expression, but its requirements for cellular differentiation have yet to be fully elucidated. A well-studied cellular differentiation model system is the eye lens, consisting of a single anterior layer of epithelial cells that migrate laterally and differentiate into a core of fiber cells. Here, we explore the genome-wide relationships between mCG methylation, chromatin accessibility and gene expression during differentiation of eye lens epithelial cells into fiber cells.

Results
Whole genome bisulfite sequencing identified 7621 genomic loci exhibiting significant differences in mCG levels between lens epithelial and fiber cells. Changes in mCG levels were inversely correlated with the differentiation state-specific expression of 1285 genes preferentially expressed in either lens fiber or lens epithelial cells (Pearson correlation r = − 0.37, p < 1 × 10–42). mCG levels were inversely correlated with chromatin accessibility determined by assay for transposase-accessible sequencing (ATAC-seq) (Pearson correlation r = − 0.86, p < 1 × 10–300). Many of the genes exhibiting altered regions of DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility and gene expression levels in fiber cells relative to epithelial cells are associated with lens fiber cell structure, homeostasis and transparency. These include lens crystallins (CRYBA4, CRYBB1, CRYGN, CRYBB2), lens beaded filament proteins (BFSP1, BFSP2), transcription factors (HSF4, SOX2, HIF1A), and Notch signaling pathway members (NOTCH1, NOTCH2, HEY1, HES5). Analysis of regions exhibiting cell-type specific alterations in DNA methylation revealed an overrepresentation of consensus sequences of multiple transcription factors known to play key roles in lens cell differentiation including HIF1A, SOX2, and the MAF family of transcription factors.

Conclusions
Collectively, these results link DNA methylation with control of chromatin accessibility and gene expression changes required for eye lens differentiation. The results also point to a role for DNA methylation in the regulation of transcription factors previously identified to be important for lens cell differentiation.
Cultural tightness–looseness and national innovativeness: impacts of tolerance and diversity of opinion
Authors: Deckert Carsten , Schomaker Rahel M. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThe links between innovativeness as a driver of economic performance, and the determinants of innovativeness have been investigated by management scholars and economists for decades, focusing mostly on “hard factors” as investment in research and development, or education. Focusing on a relatively neglected, but in times of globalization even more important aspect, the influence of cultural characteristics on innovativeness, we apply different econometric models to test for links between cultural tightness and looseness on the one hand, and national innovativeness on the other hand. We find that cultural tightness—in the sense of homogenous and intolerant societies—has a negative link to national innovativeness, while cultural looseness—in the sense of tolerant and diverse societies—displays a positive link to national innovativeness.
Factors influencing hospital stay duration for patients with mild ischemic colitis: a retrospective study
Authors: Huang Haosu , Wang Hanyue , Long Zhenpu , Wang Meng , Ding Junjie , Peng Jie 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
Ischemic colitis is the most prevalent ischemic injury of the gastrointestinal tract. The majority of patients with mild ischemic colitis usually achieve complete clinical recovery shortly. However, the predictors of longer hospital stay duration are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the predictors of hospital stay duration for patients with mild ischemic colitis.

Methods
We retrospectively evaluated 100 patients with mild ischemic colitis between January 2010 and December 2020 at Xiangya Hospital (a tertiary care center). The clinical characteristics and therapeutic drugs of patients who were hospitalized for ≤ 8 days and ≥ 12 days were compared.

Results
Of the 100 patients included, 63 (63%) were hospitalized for ≤ 8 days and 37 (37%) were hospitalized for ≥ 12 days. Patients with cerebrovascular disease (29.7% vs. 11.1%, p = 0.019) and abdominal surgical history (29.7% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.004) were more likely to be hospitalized for ≥ 12 days than for ≤ 8 days. The d-dimer levels [0.78 (0.41–1.82) vs. 0.28 (0.16–0.73), p = 0.001] and positive fecal occult blood test results (86.5% vs. 60.3%, p = 0.006) were higher in patients who were hospitalized for ≥ 12 days than in those who were hospitalized for ≤ 8 days. Probiotic use was greater in patients hospitalized for ≤ 8 days (76.2% vs. 54.1%, p = 0.022). Multivariate analysis indicated that cerebrovascular disease (odds ratio [OR] = 4.585; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.129–18.624; p = 0.033), abdominal surgical history (OR = 4.551; 95% CI 1.060–19.546; p = 0.042), higher d-dimer levels (OR = 1.928; 95% CI 1.024–3.632; p = 0.042), and higher positive fecal occult blood test results (OR = 7.211; 95% CI 1.929–26.953; p = 0.003) were associated with longer hospital stays.

Conclusion
Cerebrovascular disease, abdominal surgical history, higher d-dimer levels, and higher positive fecal occult blood test results are independent and significant factors that influence longer hospital stays for patients with mild ischemic colitis. Probiotics helped reduce hospital stay in these patients.
Depopulation or vaccination? Tackling the COVID-19 crisis in prisons in Africa
Authors: Katey Daniel , Abass Kabila , Garsonu Emmanuel Kofi , Gyasi Razak M. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractSeveral attempts have been made by the global public health efforts and national governments to contain the spread and vulnerabilities to COVID-19. Evidence, however, shows a disproportionate upsurge in COVID-19 cases in correctional facilities such as prisons, particularly, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The poor adherence to COVID-19 preventive protocols in these settings has raised a serious “moral panic” among the public. There are public health concerns about the most effective and state-of-the-art approach to tackling the continuous spread of the virus in prisons. This paper discusses the feasibility of depopulation and vaccination rollouts in combating COVID-19 in correctional facilities with a particular focus on African prisons. The paper proposes selective and strategic depopulation of prisoners, effective prioritization of vaccination among prisoners, and general sensitization of prisoners toward vaccine disbursement in this total institution.
The influences of student- and school-level factors on engineering undergraduate student success outcomes: A multi-level multi-school study
Authors: Wang Xi , Dai Minhao , Mathis Robin 
Published: March 2022

AbstractBackgroundGiven the relatively low graduation and retention rate in undergraduate engineering programs in the United States, the factors that influence student success outcomes need to be examined. However, limited research systematically studied both student- and school-level factors and how they influenced undergraduate engineering student success outcomes. We gathered responses from 458 engineering undergraduate students in a cross-sectional multilevel multi-school (14 schools) survey. These 14 schools included both large state universities and liberal arts colleges. The survey measured various student-level factors, including demographic, skills, and personality variables, along with seven school-level factors, such as student–faculty ratio and school type (i.e., public versus private). The data were analyzed using the hierarchical multilevel modeling approach.ResultsThe results showed that female students reported better outcomes than male students, racial minority students reported better outcomes than White students, but first-generation students reported poorer outcomes. Communication competency was associated with student learning outcomes, GPA, and program satisfaction, whereas conflict management preferences were not significantly correlated with any student success outcomes. The results of the school-level factors’ influences on student success outcomes were not consistent, but some factors, such as student–faculty ratios and diversity rate, were significantly related to some student outcomes.ConclusionEngineering education is a complex, multi-faceted issue that requires more collaborative and systematic research. We hope our findings help educators understand the different factors that could potentially influence engineering students and inform better program design and policymaking.
Reshaping the binding channel of a novel GH113 family β-mannanase from Paenibacillus cineris (PcMan113) for enhanced activity
Authors: Sun Dengyue , Li Chao , Cui Pengpeng , Zhang Jie , Zhou Yaolin , Wu Mian , Li Xia , Wang Teng-fei , Zeng Zhixiong , Qin Hui-Min 
Published: March 2022

AbstractEndo-β-mannanases are important enzymes for degrading lignocellulosic biomass to generate mannan, which has significant health effects as a prebiotic that promotes the development of gut microbiota. Here, a novel endo-β-mannanase belonging to glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 113 from Paenibacillus cineris (PcMan113) was cloned, expressed and characterized, as one of only a few reported GH113 family β-mannanases. Compared to other functionally and structurally characterized GH113 mannanases, recombinant PcMan113 showed a broader substrate spectrum and a better performance. Based on a structural homology model, the highly active mutant PcMT3 (F110E/N246Y) was obtained, with 4.60- and 5.53-fold increases of enzyme activity (towards KG) and catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km, against M5) compared with the WT enzyme, respectively. Furthermore, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to precisely explore the differences of catalytic activity between WT and PcMT3, which revealed that PcMT3 has a less flexible conformation, as well as an enlarged substrate-binding channel with decreased steric hindrance and increased binding energy in substrate recognition. In conclusion, we obtained a highly active variant of PcMan113 with potential for commercial application in the manufacture of manno-oligosaccharides.
Graphical Abstract
Dogs at school: a quantitative analysis of parental perceptions of canine-assisted activities in schools mediated by child anxiety score and use case
Authors: Fynn Wendy Irene , Runacres Jessica 
Published: March 2022

AbstractCanine-assisted activities in schools can benefit students’ educational, emotional, and social needs. Furthermore, they could be an effective form of non-clinical mental health treatment for children and adolescents. In the United Kingdom, school dogs are growing in popularity, however, little is known about how parents perceive canine-assisted activities as a treatment option. This is important as parental perceptions can influence engagement, whilst lack of awareness can become a barrier to treatment. This study uses a cross-sectional design to quantitatively explore the acceptability of canine-assisted activities amongst UK-based parents (n = 318) of children aged six to 16 (M = 10.12, SD = 3.22). An online survey used a treatment evaluation to determine acceptability across three use-cases. These included a child reading to dogs to improve literacy skills, a child interacting one-to-one to foster greater self-esteem and social skills, and a classroom dog to improve student behaviour and motivation. Additionally, the scale for generalised anxiety disorder was used to rank child anxiety as high or low, where high was a score equal to or above the UK clinical borderline threshold. The results found canine-assisted activities were less acceptable for the behavioural than the reading and social use-cases. Furthermore, parents of children with high anxiety had higher acceptability scores than parents of children with low anxiety for the reading and social use-cases but not for the behavioural use case. These findings suggest that UK parents' acceptability of canine-assisted activities in schools is mediated by child anxiety score. Furthermore, that parents may be less aware of the benefits of classroom dogs than other types of school-based canine-assisted activities.
A single center 9-year experience in IVC filter retrieval - the importance of an IVC filter registry
Authors: Sheehan Mark , Coppin Kristopher , O’Brien Cormac , McGrath Andrew , Given Mark , Keeling Aoife , Lee Michael J 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
To evaluate Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter retrieval practices over a 9-year period at an academic hospital with a prospectively maintained IVC filter registry.

Method
An IVC filter registry was maintained prospectively within our institution. We reviewed cases between August 2011 and June 2020, following filter status, retrieval plans, and eventual retrieval date. The validity of the database was cross referenced with a Picture Archiving and Communication System and patient records.

Results
Three hundred forty-three patients had IVC filters inserted. Three filter types were used, Celect (Cook Medical) in 189, Gunther Tulip (GT) (Cook Medical) in 65, ALN (ALN) in 89. 196 (57%) filters were retrieved, 108 (31.5%) were made permanent, 36 (10.5%) died before retrieval, and 3 (1%) were yet to be retrieved.
Retrieval rates were 92.5% overall (86% for GT, 93% for Celect and 94.5% for ALN). The mean dwell time for successful retrieval was 59 days with the majority of insertions (85%) removed in under 100 days. Failed initial retrieval occurred in 23 patients, 10 (43%) were retrieved at second attempt, 13/23 filters remained in-situ and were deemed permanent.

Conclusion
The removal of IVC filters, when indication for insertion has past, is no longer the sole responsibility of the referring physician but also the responsibility of the Interventionalist. Our retrieval rates of 92.5% of eligible IVC filters highlights the value of maintaining a prospective IVC filter registry.
A novel likely pathogenic variant in the H1-4 gene c.139G > C p.(Ala47Pro) associated with Rahman syndrome: a clinical report
Authors: González-Tarancón R. , Salvador-Rupérez E. , Goñi-Ros N. , Álvarez S. Izquierdo , Sánchez-Navarro I. , García M. Martínez , Segura J. L. Peña , Lafuente A. López 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
Rahman syndrome (RMNS) is a rare genetic disorder inherited in an autosomal dominant manner caused by a de novo mutation in H1-4 gene. Since there are few cases described in the literature, the prevalence of the syndrome is unknown. RMNS should be suspected in individuals presenting mild to severe intellectual disability associated with behavioural problems.

Case presentation
A novel variant in the H1-4 gene: c.139G > C p.(Ala47Pro), classified as likely pathogenic, was identified in a patient with a phenotype compatible with RMNS. Clubfoot and obesity were described in our patient and should be considered in future reviews of the disease.

Conclusions
This case is added to the reduced number of publications previously reported regarding RMNS and contributes to understanding the genetic characteristics, clinical features and diagnosis of this syndrome.
Frequency of neuropathic pain and its effects on rehabilitation outcomes, balance function and quality of life among people with traumatic spinal cord injury
Authors: Khan Muhammad Idrees , Arsh Aatik , Ali Ikram , Afridi Aman Khan 
Published: March 2022

Background & Objectives: Traumatic Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that results in life long disability. Impairments associated with traumatic SCI such as sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunctions lead to an array of secondary SCI-specific complications. Neuropathic pain is one of the most common medical complications of traumatic SCI which significantly affects motor function and activities of daily living (ADL) in people with traumatic SCI. Neuropathic pain is one of the main factors for dependency, decreased quality of life (QOL), poor rehabilitation outcomes, and depression in traumatic SCI individuals. The main aim of the current study was to determine the frequency of neuropathic pain and its effects on rehabilitation outcomes, balance function, and QOL in people with traumatic SCI.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out at PCP from March to August 2020. Overall, 123 participants were added to the study using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Information was collected using an adapted, validated questionnaire. Both male and female traumatic SCI patients with age between 18-60 years who received at least two weeks of rehabilitation, 42 days after diagnosis of traumatic SCI were included in current study while patients with Acute SCI, SCI patients with any other condition which can affect neuropathic pain such as traumatic brain injury, diabetic neuropathy, amputation, etc. and progressive neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Guillain barre syndromes were excluded. Patients who have received at least two weeks of rehabilitation, 42 days after diagnosis of traumatic SCI. Patients with traumatic SCI.
Results: Overall, 123 traumatic SCI patients were included in the study. The majority of the (n=101, 82%) participants were male and 83 (67.5%) were from urban areas. Eighty-Seven (70.73%) participants had neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain was significantly associated (P-value <0.005) with rehabilitation outcomes, balance function, and quality of life.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that more than two-third of SCI patients suffer from neuropathic pain. Moreover, neuropathic pain is significantly associated with rehabilitation outcomes, balance function, and quality of life.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4681
How to cite this:Khan MI, Arsh A, Ali I, Afridi AK. Frequency of neuropathic pain and its effects on rehabilitation outcomes, balance function and quality of life among people with traumatic spinal cord injury. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4681
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Spectrum of HRCT Scan Chest Findings in COVID-19 Patients as Categorized by Modified CO-RADS Classification
Authors: Tabassum Sumera , Haider Shahbaz , Shaukat Shaista 
Published: March 2022

Objectives: The Dutch Radiological Society developed CO-RADS classification, a system for the classification of CT scan chest findings among suspected COVID-19 patients. However due to some important issues it was modified by authors and then applied on our study population. The objective was to study the spectrum of lungs involvement as concluded by HRCT scan chest finding and classifying it using the “Modified CO-RADS classification”
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted jointly by the departments of Medicine and Radiology, JPMC from January 16, 2021 to April 30, 2021. This study includes suspected cases of COVID-19 patients aged between 18-80 years who came for HRCT chest. Their data variables were recorded. HRCT findings were classified using “Modified CO-RADS classification”. Patients’ results of real time PCR for COVID-19 were also followed.
Results: A total of 78 patients presented to the study department during this study period. Of them 85.8% were male (n=67) and 14.2% were female (n=11). Out of the 78 patients, 58 were tested positive for COVID-19 on first RT-PCR on follow up. Among positive two patients (3.4%) had CO-RADS-1, 4 patients (7%) had CO-RADS-2, 19 patients (32.75%) had CO-RADS-3, 21 patients (36.2%) had CO-RADS-4 while 12 patients (20.7%) had CO-RADS-5 category. (CO-RAD-6 category was omitted). Of the patient who had negative results on RT-PCR, five patients had CO-RADS-4 while three patients had CO-RADS-5. On repeat RT-PCR all (8/8) patients of category IV and V proved Covid-19 positive.
Conclusion: HRCT scan chest can be used for quicker diagnosis of COVID-19 patients in patients with respiratory complaints in whom prompt diagnosis is required and when RT-PCR investigation process would be taking prolonged time due to over burden during pandemic situation. “CO-RADS classification after modification” proved more effective communicative tool to label and understand the severity of lung involvement in Covid-19 disease.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4687
How to cite this:Tabassum S, Haider S, Shaukat S. Spectrum of HRCT Scan Chest Findings in COVID-19 Patients as Categorized by Modified CO-RADS Classification. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4687
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Seasonal influenza vaccine awareness and factors affecting vaccination in Turkish Society
Authors: Goktas Olgun , Can Fatma Ezgi , Yakar Burkay , Ercan Ilker , Akalın Emin Halis 
Published: March 2022

Objective: Influenza vaccine reduces the burden of seasonal influenza and related complications. Potential vaccination barriers need to be identified to raise awareness and increase acceptance. We aimed to investigate the rates of seasonal influenza vaccination and the knowledge, opinions, and behaviours prevalent in Turkish society.
Methods: The study among seven regions in Turkey was conducted from October-November 2018 in 28 family health centres, using a cross-sectional, descriptive design. The knowledge, opinions, and behaviours of participants regarding the influenza vaccine were obtained by family physicians through face-to-face interviews with participants.
Results: A total of 3,492 people aged 10-97 years age range (median: 50 years) were included in the study. Over half of the participants (59.9%, n = 2093) were female. It was found that the percentage of participants who never received the influenza vaccine was 78.4%; only 13.4% were occasionally vaccinated, and 8.1% received regular annual vaccination. Influenza vaccination rates were higher in married people (p < 0.001), women (p = 0.005), patients with chronic lung and cardiovascular disease (p < 0.001), those over 65 years /nursing home residents (p < 0.001). Awareness of the vaccine’s benefit was higher in the group at high risk of influenza (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The rate of regular vaccination against influenza every year was insufficient, at 8.1%. Individuals’ insensitivity, insufficient knowledge, and attitudes toward influenza vaccination is a serious health problem for Turkish society. Barriers to influenza vaccination can be reduced by good communication between family physicians and their patients.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4915
How to cite this:Goktas O, Can FE, Yakar B, Ercan I, Akalin EH. Seasonal influenza vaccine awareness and factors affecting vaccination in Turkish Society. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(4):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.4.4915
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.