Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Report of high genetic diversity of filarial worm, Wuchereria bancrofti from endemic region of Eastern Maharashtra (India)

Summary “Filariasis free India” is National Health Policy’s vision. Currently, India has undertaken Mass Drug Administration drive (MDA) to eliminate the filariasis infection. Taking this into account, the emergence of new Wuchereria bancrofti resistant strains against the current choice of drugs cannot be ruled out. In this study, we report the genetic diversity of Wuchereria bancrofti from four districts (Amravati, Nagpur, Chandrapur and Wardha) of Vidarbha, a region in the eastern part of Maharashtra state of India and considered a hot spot of filariasis infections. The RAPD profiles were generated for 21 populations using nine random RAPD primers. The RAPD-PCR based distance matrix shows maximum genetic distance of 0.425 between the parasites from Nagpur and Amravati region and minimum genetic distance of 0.210 between the parasites of Wardha and Nagpur. The tree inferred by Neighbour-Joining (NJ) method shows four distinct clusters. With the single exception of isolates from Amravati, all other clusters show the intermingling of isolates with other districts. Further, the representation of isolates from Chandrapur in three out of four clusters revealed to be a founder and indicates towards the entry of the filarial worm into the Maharashtra state through southern route.
Semiquantitative promoter methylation of MLH1 and MSH2 genes and their impact on sperm DNA fragmentation and chromatin condensation in infertile men

To investigate the semiquantitative methylation alterations of MLH1 and MSH2 and the possible association among methylation of MLH1 and MSH2, sperm DNA fragmentation and sperm chromatin condensation in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men. Seventy‐five idiopathic infertile men and 52 fertile and/or normozoospermic men were included in the study. SDF was analysed using the TUNEL assay in semen samples of 100 men. Promoter methylation of MLH1 and MSH2 genes was assessed by semiquantitative methylight analysis in semen samples of 39 and 40 men respectively. Sperm chromatin condensation was evaluated using aniline blue staining in 114 men. MLH1 promoter methylation was positively correlated with the percentage of aniline blue positive spermatozoa (r = 0.401, p = 0.0188). On the other hand, MSH2 promoter methylation was negatively correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count (r = −0.421, p = 0.0068 and r = 0.4408, p = 0.009 respectively). The percentage of aniline blue positive spermatozoa in the control group was significantly lower than in the OAT group (p < 0.0001) and negatively correlated with total sperm count (r = −0.683, p < 0.0001), progressive sperm motility (r = −0.628, p < 0.0001), total motility (r = −0.639, p < 0.0001) and normal morphology (r = −0.668, p < 0.0001). Promoter methylation profile of MLH1 and MSH2 genes may play role on sperm DNA packaging and conventional semen parameters respectively.
Comprehensive analysis of transcriptome-wide m6A methylome in the anterior capsule of the lens of high myopia patients

ABSTRACT To assess the m6A methylome in the anterior capsule of the lens of high myopia patients. MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq were performed to identify differences in the m6A methylomes and gene expression between anterior capsule of the lens of simple nuclear cataract patients (N) and nuclear cataract patients with high myopia (G). Expression of m6A-related enzymes was confirmed by quantitative real-time-PCR. ALKBH5 was downregulated in G. The observed m6A peak was identical to the conserved RRACH gmotif and was markedly correlated with two distinct coordinates. Differentially methylated genes were enriched in some pathways regulating the formation of extracellular matrix. These findings suggest that upregulation of m6A methylation may change fundus anatomy by regulating the composition of the extracellular matrix through encoding protein.
Transcriptome analysis of porcine endometrium after LPS-induced inflammation: Effects of the PPARγ ligands in vitro.

Female fertility depends greatly on the capacity of the uterus to recognize and eliminate microbial infections, a major reason of inflammation in the endometrium in many species. This study aimed to determine the in vitro effect of PPARγ ligands on the transcriptome genes expression and alternative splicing in the porcine endometrium in the mid-luteal phase during LPS-stimulated inflammation using RNA-seq technology. The endometrial slices were incubated in vitro in the presence of LPS and PPARγ agonists-PGJ2 or pioglitazone and antagonist-T0070907. We identified 222, 3, 4 and 62 differentially expressed genes after LPS, PGJ2, pioglitazone or T0070907 treatment, respectively. In addition, we detected differentially alternative spliced events: after treatment with LPS-78, PGJ2-60, pioglitazone-52 or T0070907-134. These results should become a basis for further studies explaining the mechanism of PPARγ action in the reproductive system in pigs.
Body mass index rather than the phenotype impacts precocious ultrasound cardiovascular risk markers in polycystic ovary syndrome.

Research into cardiovascular disease (CV) prevention has demonstrated a variety of ultrasound (US) markers predicting risk in the general population, but which have been scarcely used for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Obesity is a major factor contributing to CV disease in the general population, and it is highly prevalent in PCOS. However, it is still unclear how much risk is attributable to hyperandrogenism. This study evaluates the most promising US CV risk markers in PCOS and compares them between different PCOS phenotypes and BMI values. Women fulfilling the Rotterdam criteria for PCOS were recruited from our outpatient clinic for this cross-sectional study. Participants (n = 102) aged 38.9±7.4 years were stratified into the four PCOS phenotypes and the three BMI classes (normal-weight, overweight, obese). They were assessed for clinical and biochemical parameters together with the following US markers: coronary intima-media thickness (cIMT), flow-mediated vascular dilation (FMD), nitroglycerine-induced dilation (NTG), and epicardial fat thickness (EFT). There was no statistical difference among the four phenotypes in terms of cIMT, FMD, NTG or EFT, however all the US parameters except NTG showed significant differences among the three BMI classes. Adjusting for confounding factors in multiple regression analyses, EFT retained the greatest direct correlation with BMI, and cIMT remained directly correlated but to a lesser degree. This study showed that obesity rather than the hyperandrogenic phenotype negatively impacts precocious US CV risk markers in PCOS. In addition, EFT showed the strongest association with BMI, highlighting its potential for estimating CV risk in PCOS.
Simulation & modelling of dilute solutions in drop-on-demand inkjet printing: a review

This review is about the most important matters for advancing inkjet printing with a focus on piezoelectric droplet on demand (DOD) inkjet thin-film devices. The Nano material compounds can be incorporated into a polymeric matrix and deposited by piezoelectric inkjet printing. Current problems in advanced printers are discussed as embodied in liquid filament breakup along with satellite droplet formation and reduction in droplet sizes. Various model that predicts the printability of dilute, mono disperse polymer solutions in drop-on-demand “DOD” inkjet printing have been discussed. For satellite droplets, it is exhibited which liquid filament break-up treatment can be predicted via using a combination of two pi-numbers, including the Weber number. The layer was printed over other printed layers including electrodes composed of the conductive polymers and also several polymers. It has been discussed, some polymer materials are suitable for deposition and curing at low to moderate temperatures and atmospheric pressure, allowing for the use of polymers or paper as supportive substrates for the devices, and greatly facilitating the fabrication process. Furthermore, through this review, it has been discussed scaling analyses for designing and operating of inkjet heads. Because of droplet sizes from inkjet nozzles are typically on the order of nozzle dimensions, a numerical simulation is shown for explaining how to reduce droplet sizes through employing a novel input waveform impressed on the inkjet-head liquid inflow without changing the nozzle geometries. Regardless of their any less performance, inkjet printer head as a technique for the mentioned devices presents many advantages, the most notable of which are quickly fabricating and patterning, substrate flexibilities, avoidance of material wastage via applying “DoD” technologies.
What is the truth about proton pump inhibitors?

Purpose of review This review explores the recent evidence and established scientific literature surrounding proton pump inhibitors in the context of laryngology. Recent findings Proton pump inhibitors are often associated with gastroenterology; however, they also have a place in laryngology. Several laryngopharyngeal disorders are treated with proton pump inhibitors, though limited evidence regarding effectiveness, dosing and length of treatment exists. With the recent influx of articles reporting possible adverse effects of proton pump inhibitors, the appropriate prescribing of them has come under scrutiny. These reported risks include cancer, stroke, myocardial infarction, kidney disease and cognitive decline. It should be noted though that many of these studies by nature, are fraught with potential confounding. Regardless, clinicians ought to be aware of any risks associated with treatment regimens and prescribe the optimal dosage and duration. Summary Proton pump inhibitor treatment should be dose-appropriate and for a limited duration. Concerning potential adverse effects, the limitations of retrospective cohort studies must be taken into consideration when reviewing the evidence.
Response to: Determination of Any Correlation between Sagittal Spinopelvic Configuration and Progressive Collapse of Acute Osteoporotic Compression Spine Fractures: A Retrospective Radiological Analysis

Study Design A retrospective cohort study. Purpose The aim of this study was to determine any correlations between spinopelvic configuration and progressive collapse following acute osteoporotic compression spine fractures. Overview of Literature Few studies have investigated the risk factors for progressive osteoporotic compression spine fractures. However, the correlation between the spinopelvic configuration, which is a crucial to optimize the management of lumbar degenerative diseases, and progressive collapse following acute osteoporotic compression spine fractures was not analyzed. Methods We retrospectively identified all patients treated for thoracolumbar fractures inAssaf Harofe Medical Center between January 2008 and July 2013. Pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), and pelvic tilt (PT) were measured for the pelvic parameters. For each patient, we classified the fracture according to the AOSpine Thoracolumbar Spine Injury Classification System. Height loss was measured initially and at a minimum of 3-month follow-up. The difference between initial and final height loss was documented as height loss difference. Results The study included 124 patients comprised 86 women and 38 men. The mean patient age was 69±9.6 years. The mean length of follow-up was 14±15 months. No significant effect of the PI, PT, and SS angles on the vertebral fracture level (p >0.05) was found. Similarly, no significant relationship between the PI, PT, and SS angle and the fracture type according to the AO classification (p >0.05) was found. There was no correlation between PI, PT, and SS angles and initial height loss, final height loss and height loss difference (p> 0.05). Conclusions The spinopelvic configuration represented by the PI, PT, and SS angle does not influence progressive collapse following acute osteoporotic compression spine fractures.
Improved nutrition in early life and pulse wave velocity and augmentation index in mid-adulthood: Follow-up of the INCAP Nutrition Supplementation Trial Longitudinal Study

Nutrition in pregnancy and early childhood affects later blood pressure and precursors of atherosclerosis, but its influence on arterial stiffness is unexplored. This study determines whether exposure to improved nutrition during early life influences Augmentation index (AI) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) in mid-adulthood. We included 1221 adults (37-54y) who participated in a cluster-randomized nutritional supplementation trial of a protein-energy beverage (Atole), conducted between 1969–1977 in Guatemala. The comparison group received Fresco, a low-calorie protein-free beverage. In 2015–17, we measured anthropometry (weight, height, and waist-to-height ratio); AI and PWV (using carotid—femoral tonometry); blood pressure; fasting plasma glucose and serum lipids; and sociodemographic characteristics. Based on patterns of exposure, we characterized participants as fully, partially or unexposed to the intervention from conception to their second birthday (the ‘first 1000 days’). We fit pooled and sex-specific models using intention-to-treat, difference-in-difference regression analysis to test whether exposure to the supplement in the first 1000 days was associated with AI and PWV in adulthood adjusting for basal and current sociodemographic variables and current life-style and cardio-metabolic risk factors. Prevalence of obesity in men and women was 39.6% and 19.6%, and prevalence of hypertension was 44.0% and 36.0%, respectively. Women had higher AI (34.4±9.6%) compared to men (23.0± 9.8%), but had similar PWV (7.60±1.13 m/s and 7.60±1.31, respectively). AI did not differ significantly across intervention groups. PWV was lower in individuals with full exposure to the supplement during the first 1000 days (-0.39m/s, 95% CI -0.87, 0.09; p = 0.1) compared to unexposed individuals. This difference was similar after adjusting for cardio-metabolic risk factors (-0.45m/s; 95%C-0.93, 0.01; p = 0.06). Exposure to improved nutrition during the first 1000 days was marginally associated with lower PWV, but not with AI.
Anesthesiologist Age and Sex Influence Patient Perceptions of Physician Competence

Background: Uncovering patients’ biases toward characteristics of anesthesiologists may inform ways to improve the patient–anesthesiologist relationship. The authors previously demonstrated that patients prefer anesthesiologists displaying confident body language, but did not detect a sex bias. The effect of anesthesiologists’ age on patient perceptions has not been studied. In this follow-up study, it was hypothesized that patients would prefer older-appearing anesthesiologists over younger-appearing anesthesiologists and male over female anesthesiologists. Methods: Three hundred adult, English-speaking patients were recruited in the Preanesthesia Evaluation and Testing Center. Patients were randomized (150 per group) to view a set of four videos in random order. Each 90-s video featured an older female, older male, younger female, or younger male anesthesiologist reciting the same script describing general anesthesia. Patients ranked each anesthesiologist on confidence, intelligence, and likelihood of choosing the anesthesiologist to care for their family member. Patients also chose the one anesthesiologist who seemed most like a leader. Results: Three hundred patients watched the videos and completed the questionnaire. Among patients younger than age 65 yr, the older anesthesiologists had greater odds of being ranked more confident (odds ratio, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.41 to 2.64; P < 0.001) and more intelligent (odds ratio, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.62 to 3.11; P < 0.001), and had greater odds of being considered a leader (odds ratio, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.72 to 4.00; P < 0.001) when compared with younger anesthesiologists. The preference for older anesthesiologists was not observed in patients age 65 and older. Female anesthesiologists had greater odds of being ranked more confident (odds ratio, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.87; P = 0.003) and more likely to be chosen to care for one’s family member (odds ratio, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.40 to 2.31; P < 0.001) compared with male anesthesiologists. The ranking preference for female anesthesiologists on these two measures was observed among white patients and not among nonwhite patients. Conclusions: Patients preferred older anesthesiologists on the measures of confidence, intelligence, and leadership. Patients also preferred female anesthesiologists on the measures of confidence and likelihood of choosing the anesthesiologist to care for one’s family member. The authors used standardized videos of male and female actors and younger and older actors portraying anesthesiologists. Older actors were rated as more confident and intelligent and were more often selected as leaders, but only among patients aged less than 65 yr. Female actors were rated as more confident and were more likely to be selected to care for a family member, but only among white patients. Age and sex both influence patient perceptions of desirable characteristics in anesthesiologists, and perceptions differ as a function of patient characteristics.
Incremental Diagnostic Value of Virtual Noncalcium Dual-Energy Computed Tomography for the Depiction of Cervical Disk Herniation Compared With Standard Gray-Scale Computed Tomography.

OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigative the diagnostic accuracy of colored dual-energy computed tomography (CT) virtual noncalcium (VNCa) series for analyzing cervical disk herniation compared with standard gray-scale CT images, with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) serving as standard of reference. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data from 57 patients who underwent noncontrast dual-source CT and 3.0-Tesla (T) MRI within 2 weeks between January 2017 and December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Five radiologists analyzed standard gray-scale dual-energy CT scans for the presence and degree of cervical disk herniation and spinal nerve root impingement. Readers reassessed scans after 8 weeks using colored VNCa series. Two experienced radiologists set the reference standard in consensus MRI reading sessions. Primary indices of diagnostic accuracy for both CT approaches were sensitivity and specificity, which were compared by application of the McNemar test. RESULTS A total of 57 patients (mean age, 64 ± 11 years; 30 women) were evaluated (337 intervertebral disks). Magnetic resonance imaging indicated a total of 103 cervical disk herniations. The VNCa reconstructions had higher overall sensitivity compared with gray-scale CT (487/515 [95%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 91%-98%] vs 392/515 [76%; 95% CI, 70%-83%]), as well as higher specificity (1107/1170 [95%; 95% CI, 90%-99%] vs 906/1170 [77%; 95% CI, 72%-82%]) for assessing cervical disk herniation (all P < 0.001). The VNCa reconstructions had higher diagnostic accuracy for analyzing spinal nerve root impingement in comparison with gray-scale CT (sensitivity, 195/230 [85%; 95% CI, 79%-90%] vs 115/230 [50%; 95% CI, 40%-59%]; specificity, 1430/1455 [98%; 95% CI, 94%-100%] vs 1325/1455 [91%; 95% CI, 88%-98%]; accuracy, 1625/1685 [96%; 95% CI, 93%-99%] vs 1440/1685 [86%; 95% CI, 82%-90%]; all P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Color-coded VNCa series improved the diagnostic accuracy for assessing cervical disk herniation and spinal nerve root impingement compared with standard gray-scale CT.
Feature-Selection-Based Transfer Learning for Intracortical Brain–Machine Interface Decoding

The time spent in collecting current samples for decoder calibration and the computational burden brought by high-dimensional neural recordings remain two challenging problems in intracortical brain-machine interfaces (iBMIs). Decoder calibration optimization approaches have been proposed, and neuron selection methods have been used to reduce computational burden. However, few methods can solve both problems simultaneously. In this article, we present a symmetrical-uncertainty-based transfer learning (SUTL) method that combines transfer learning with feature selection. The proposed method uses symmetrical uncertainty to quantitatively measure three indices for feature selection: stationarity, importance and redundancy of the feature. By selecting the stationary features, the disparities between the historical data and current data can be diminished, and the historical data can be effectively used for decoder calibration, thereby reducing the demand for current data. After selecting the important and non-redundant features, only the channels corresponding to them need to work; thus, the computational burden is reduced. The proposed method was tested on neural data recorded from two rhesus macaques to decode the reaching position or grasping gesture. The results showed that the SUTL method diminished the disparities between the historical data and current data, while achieving superior decoding performance with the needs of only ten current samples each category, less than 10% the number of features and 30% the number of neural recording channels. Additionally, unlike most studies on iBMIs, feature selection was implemented instead of neuron selection, and the average decoding accuracy achieved by the former was 6.6% higher.
Identification of novel susceptibility loci for non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate

Although several genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) of non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) have been reported, more novel association signals are remained to be exploited. Here, we performed an in‐depth analysis of our previously published Chinese GWAS cohort study with replication in an extra dbGaP case‐parent trios and another in‐house Nanjing cohort, and finally identified five novel significant association signals (rs11119445: 3’ of SERTAD4, P = 6.44 × 10−14; rs227227 and rs12561877: intron of SYT14, P = 5.02 × 10−13 and 2.80 × 10−11, respectively; rs643118: intron of TRAF3IP3, P = 4.45 × 10−6; rs2095293: intron of NR6A1, P = 2.98 × 10−5). The mean (standard deviation) of the weighted genetic risk score (wGRS) from these SNPs was 1.83 (0.65) for NSCL/P cases and 1.58 (0.68) for controls, respectively (P = 2.67 × 10−16). Rs643118 was identified as a shared susceptible factor of NSCL/P among Asians and Europeans, while rs227227 may contribute to the risk of NSCL/P as well as NSCPO. In addition, sertad4 knockdown zebrafish models resulted in down‐regulation of sox2 and caused oedema around the heart and mandibular deficiency, compared with control embryos. Taken together, this study has improved our understanding of the genetic susceptibility to NSCL/P and provided further clues to its aetiology in the Chinese population.