Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Prevalence and Impact of Back and Neck Pain in Veterans With Upper Limb Amputation

Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Objective The aims of the study were (1) to describe frequency of back pain only, neck pain only, and co-occurring pain in veterans with upper limb amputation, (2) to examine changes in pain over 1 yr, and (3) to quantify the association of pain and health-related quality of life and disability. Design This is an observational cohort study with a survey of a sample of 792 veterans with upper limb amputation, with 1-yr reassessment of 585 (85.3%) of 777 eligible participants. Pain prevalence and intensity were examined. Logistic and linear regressions identified variables associated with pain and examined associations between intensity and veterans RAND-12 mental component score and physical component score and QuickDASH. Results At baseline, 52.3% had co-occurring pain, 20.0% had back pain, and 8.3% had neck pain. Persistent back and neck pain is present in 60.8% and 48.1% respondents, respectively. Pain intensity was unchanged for 59.1% with back pain and 61.3% with neck pain. Mental component score and QuickDASH were significantly worse with severe and moderate back and neck pain, compared with no pain. Severe/moderate back pain intensity was associated with lower physical component score. Conclusions Back and neck pain is highly prevalent and persistent in veterans with upper limb amputation. Pain intensity is negatively associated with health-related quality of life and disability. Pain prevention and intervention are needed in this population.
Inferring the Phylogenetic Positions of Two Fig Wasp Subfamilies of Epichrysomallinae and Sycophaginae Using Transcriptomes and Mitochondrial Data

Fig wasps are a group of insects (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) that live in the compact syconia of fig trees (Moraceae: Ficus). Accurate classification and phylogenetic results are very important for studies of fig wasps, but the taxonomic statuses of some fig wasps, especially the non-pollinating subfamilies are difficult to determine, such as Epichrysomallinae and Sycophaginae. To resolve the taxonomic statuses of Epichrysomallinae and Sycophaginae, we obtained transcriptomes and mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) data for four species of fig wasps. These newly added data were combined with the data of 13 wasps (data on 11 fig wasp species were from our laboratory and two wasp species were download from NCBI). Based on the transcriptome and genome data, we obtained 145 single-copy orthologous (SCO) genes in 17 wasp species, and based on mitogenome data, we obtained 13 mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCGs) for each of the 17 wasp species. Ultimately, we used 145 SCO genes, 13 mitochondrial PCGs and combined SCO genes and mitochondrial genes data to reconstruct the phylogenies of fig wasps using both maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) analyses. Our results suggest that both Epichrysomallinae and Sycophaginae are more closely related to Agaonidae with a high statistical support.
Magnetic resonance imaging manifestations of cerebral small vessel disease: automated quantification and clinical application

Abstract The common cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) neuroimaging features visible on conventional structural magnetic resonance imaging include recent small subcortical infarcts, lacunes, white matter hyperintensities, perivascular spaces, microbleeds, and brain atrophy. The CSVD neuroimaging features have shared and distinct clinical consequences, and the automatic quantification methods for these features are increasingly used in research and clinical settings. This review article explores the recent progress in CSVD neuroimaging feature quantification and provides an overview of the clinical consequences of these CSVD features as well as the possibilities of using these features as endpoints in clinical trials. The added value of CSVD neuroimaging quantification is also discussed for researches focused on the mechanism of CSVD and the prognosis in subjects with CSVD.
Analysis of Transcriptional Changes in Different Brassica napus Synthetic Allopolyploids

Allopolyploidy is an evolutionary and mechanistically intriguing process involving the reconciliation of two or more sets of diverged genomes and regulatory interactions, resulting in new phenotypes. In this study, we explored the gene expression patterns of eight F2 synthetic Brassica napus using RNA sequencing. We found that B. napus allopolyploid formation was accompanied by extensive changes in gene expression. A comparison between F2 and the parent shows a certain proportion of differentially expressed genes (DEG) and activation\silent gene, and the two genomes (female parent (AA)\male parent (CC) genomes) showed significant differences in response to whole-genome duplication (WGD); non-additively expressed genes represented a small portion, while Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis showed that it played an important role in responding to WGD. Besides, genome-wide expression level dominance (ELD) was biased toward the AA genome, and the parental expression pattern of most genes showed a high degree of conservation. Moreover, gene expression showed differences among eight individuals and was consistent with the results of a cluster analysis of traits. Furthermore, the differential expression of waxy synthetic pathways and flowering pathway genes could explain the performance of traits. Collectively, gene expression of the newly formed allopolyploid changed dramatically, and this was different among the selfing offspring, which could be a prominent cause of the trait separation. Our data provide novel insights into the relationship between the expression of differentially expressed genes and trait segregation and provide clues into the evolution of allopolyploids.
Hepatitis E should be a global public health priority: recommendations for improving surveillance and prevention

ABSTRACT Introduction Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important cause of enterically transmitted viral hepatitis and a significant contributor to maternal mortality in endemic regions around the world, yet the global response has been limited. HEV is a disease of poverty, and the populations experiencing the greatest burden of HEV-associated illness are not benefitting from existing interventions, including WASH strategies and immunization. Areas Covered Though a vaccine exists (HEV 239, Hecolin®, Xiamen Innovax Biotech, China), it is only licensed and available in the private market in China and has yet to be prequalified by the WHO for use in endemic settings and outbreaks. This review of the current state of HEV disease and subsequent recommendations for a coordinated public health response are intended to guide the global health community towards breaking the current ‘vicious cycle,’ in which a lack of data prevents actions that would improve health outcomes. Expert opinion Vaccine implementation in future outbreaks, targeted studies assessing vaccine effectiveness and immunogenicity in endemic regions and populations, improved understanding of the global burden, and improvements in diagnostic and epidemiologic tools are urgently needed. Strategies for implementing routine vaccination programs, improving water, sanitation, and hygiene in endemic regions.
Motor Interference, But Not Sensory Interference, Increases Midfrontal Theta Activity and Brain Synchronization during Reactive Control

Cognitive control helps us to overcome task interference in challenging situations. Resolving conflicts because of interfering influences is believed to rely on midfrontal theta oscillations. However, different sources of interference necessitate different types of control. Attentional control is needed to suppress salient distractors. Motor control is needed to suppress goal-incompatible action impulses. While previous studies mostly studied the additive effects of attentional and motor conflicts, we independently manipulated the need for attentional control (via visual distractors) and motor control (via unexpected response deviations) in an EEG study with male and female humans. We sought to find out whether these different types of control rely on the same midfrontal oscillatory mechanisms. Motor conflicts, but not attentional conflicts, elicited increases in midfrontal theta power during conflict resolution. Independent of the type of conflict, theta power was predictive of motor slowing. Connectivity analysis via phase-based synchronization indicated a widespread increase interbrain connectivity for motor conflicts, but a midfrontal-to-posterior decrease in connectivity for attentional conflicts. For each condition, we found stronger midfrontal connectivity with the parietal region contralateral to, rather than ipsilateral to, the acting hand. Parietal lateralization in connectivity was strongest for motor conflicts. Previous studies suggested that midfrontal theta oscillations might represent a general control mechanism, which aids conflict resolution independent of the conflict domain. In contrast, our results show that oscillatory theta dynamics during reactive control mostly reflect motor-related adjustments. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Humans need to exercise self-control over both their attention (to avoid distraction) and their motor activity (to suppress inappropriate action impulses). Midfrontal theta oscillations have been assumed to indicate a general control mechanism, which help to exert top-down control during both motor and sensory interference. We are using a novel approach for the independent manipulation of attentional and motor control to show that increases in midfrontal theta power and brainwide connectivity are linked to the top-down adjustments of motor responses, not sensory interference. These findings clarify the function of midfrontal theta dynamics as a key aspect of neural top-down control and help to dissociate domain-general from motor-specific aspects of self-control.
Electronic excitation in graphene under single-particle irradiation

Single-particle irradiation is a typical condition in space applications, which could be detrimental for electronic devices through processes such as single-event upset or latch-up. For functional devices made of few-atom-thick monolayers that are entirely exposed to the environment, the irradiation effects could be manifested through localized or delocalized electronic excitation, in addition to lattice defect creation. In this work, we explore the single-H irradiation effects on bare or coated graphene monolayers. Real-time time-dependent density functional theory-based first-principles calculation results elucidate the evolution of charge densities in the composite system, showing notable charge excitation but negligible charge deposition. A hexagonal boron nitride coating layer does not protect graphene from these processes. Principal component analysis demonstrates the dominance of localized excitation accompanied by nuclear motion, bond distortion and vibration, as well as a minor contribution from delocalized plasmonic excitation. The significance of coupled electron–ion dynamics in modulating the irradiation processes is identified from comparative studies on the spatial and temporal patterns of excitation for unconstrained and constrained lattices. The stopping power or energy deposition is also calculated, quantifying the dissipative nature of charge density excitation. This study offers fundamental understandings of the single-particle irradiation effects on optoelectronic devices constructed from low-dimensional materials, and inspires unconventional techniques to excite the electrons and ions in a controllable way.
The Impact of Mobile Phone Use on Tinnitus: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

Tinnitus is a perception of sound in the absence of an external source. The aim of our study was to investigate with a meta‐analytical approach, whether mobile phone (MP) use increases the risk of tinnitus. Eight studies reporting the risk of tinnitus in relation to MP use were identified, and six high‐quality studies (two cohort studies, one case–control study, and three cross‐sectional ones) were included in the meta‐analysis. The quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. The risk of tinnitus was analyzed depending on the exposure to MPs in subgroups according to the study design and method of exposure assessment. Two cohort studies, which assessed the exposure to MPs using network operator data, indicated no significantly increased risk of tinnitus among highly exposed MP users in comparison to lightly exposed individuals (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.93–1.15]). Likewise, the self‐reported exposure data from two cohorts/case–control and four cross‐sectional studies did not find an association between exposure to MPs and tinnitus (OR: 1.20 [95% CI: 0.40–3.61] and OR: 1.73 [95% CI: 0.67–4.49], respectively). Current scientific knowledge, including high‐quality studies with a reliable exposure assessment based on network operator data, does not support the hypothesis that MP use is associated with tinnitus. © 2020 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
Mechanisms and Consequences of Newcastle Disease Virus W Protein Subcellular Localization in the Nucleus or Mitochondria

In Newcastle disease virus (NDV), the W protein, like the V protein, is a nonstructural protein encoded by the P gene via RNA editing. Compared with the V protein, the W protein has a common N-terminal domain but a unique C-terminal domain. ABSTRACT We previously demonstrated that W proteins from different Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains localize in either the cytoplasm (e.g., NDV strain SG10) or the nucleus (e.g., NDV strain La Sota). To clarify the mechanism behind these cell localization differences, we overexpressed W protein derived from four different NDV strains or W protein associated with different cellular regions in Vero cells. This revealed that the key region for determining W protein localization is from 180 to 227 amino acids (aa). Further experiments found there is a nuclear export signal (NES) motif in the W protein at 211 to 224 aa. W protein could be transported into the nucleus via interaction with KPNA1, KPNA2, and KPNA6 in a nuclear localization signal-dependent manner, and W protein containing an NES was transported back to the cytoplasm in a chromosomal maintenance 1 (CRM1)-independent manner. Interestingly, we observed that the cytoplasm-localized W protein colocalizes with mitochondria. We rescued the NES-deletion W protein NDV strain rSG10-ΔWC/WΔNES using an NDV reverse genetics system and found that the replication ability, virulence, and pathogenicity of an NDV strain were all higher when the W protein cellular localization was in the nucleus rather than the mitochondria. Further experiments revealed that W protein nuclear localization reduced the expression of IFN-β otherwise stimulated by NDV. Our research reveals the mechanism by which NDV W protein becomes localized to different parts of the cell and demonstrates the outcomes of nuclear or cytoplasmic localization both in vitro and in vivo, laying a foundation for subsequent functional studies of the W protein in NDV and other paramyxoviruses. IMPORTANCE In Newcastle disease virus (NDV), the W protein, like the V protein, is a nonstructural protein encoded by the P gene via RNA editing. Compared with the V protein, the W protein has a common N-terminal domain but a unique C-terminal domain. The V protein is known as a key virulence factor and an important interferon antagonist across the family Paramyxoviridae. In contrast, very little is known about the function of the NDV W protein, and this limited information is based on studies of the Nipah virus W protein. Here, we investigated the localization mechanism of NDV W protein and its subcellular distribution in mitochondria. We found that W protein localization differences impact beta interferon (IFN-β) production, consequently affecting NDV virulence, replication, and pathogenicity. This work provides new insights on the differential localization mechanism of NDV W proteins, along with fundamental knowledge for understanding the functions of W proteins in NDV and other paramyxoviruses.
Sex differences in susceptibility, severity, and outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019: Cross-sectional analysis from a diverse US metropolitan area

Introduction Sex is increasingly recognized as an important factor in the epidemiology and outcome of many diseases. This also appears to hold for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Evidence from China and Europe has suggested that mortality from COVID-19 infection is higher in men than women, but evidence from US populations is lacking. Utilizing data from a large healthcare provider, we determined if males, as compared to females have a higher likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility, and if among the hospitalized COVID-19 patients, male sex is independently associated with COVID-19 severity and poor in-hospital outcomes. Methods and findings Using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from a COVID-19 Surveillance and Outcomes Registry (CURATOR). Data were extracted from Electronic Medical Records (EMR). A total of 96,473 individuals tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in nasopharyngeal swab specimens via Polymerized Chain Reaction (PCR) tests were included. For hospital-based analyses, all patients admitted during the same time-period were included. Of the 96,473 patients tested, 14,992 (15.6%) tested positive, of whom 4,785 (31.9%) were hospitalized and 452 (9.5%) died. Among all patients tested, men were significantly older. The overall SARS-CoV-2 positivity among all tested individuals was 15.5%, and was higher in males as compared to females 17.0% vs. 14.6% [OR 1.20]. This sex difference held after adjusting for age, race, ethnicity, marital status, insurance type, median income, BMI, smoking and 17 comorbidities included in Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) [aOR 1.39]. A higher proportion of males (vs. females) experienced pulmonary (ARDS, hypoxic respiratory failure) and extra-pulmonary (acute renal injury) complications during their hospital course. After adjustment, length of stay (LOS), need for mechanical ventilation, and in-hospital mortality were significantly higher in males as compared to females. Conclusions In this analysis of a large US cohort, males were more likely to test positive for COVID-19. In hospitalized patients, males were more likely to have complications, require ICU admission and mechanical ventilation, and had higher mortality than females, independent of age. Sex disparities in COVID-19 vulnerability are present, and emphasize the importance of examining sex-disaggregated data to improve our understanding of the biological processes involved to potentially tailor treatment and risk stratify patients.
Recent progress and future aspects of organic solar cells

This article aims to review the recent progress and future aspects of organic solar cells (OSCs). Different device designs proposed for efficient light harvesting and their advancements have been discussed. We have discussed various parameters limiting their efficiency and their possible solutions. Special attention has been paid to understand the device physics and its fundamental facets. Open circuit voltage (Voc) is an important parameter in the determination of their efficiency, but the picture behind the real origin of Voc is not very much clear; therefore, this issue has been discussed in detail. Short lifetime is another important issue; therefore, recent progress in stability and related issues has also been discussed. The progress in roll to roll (R2R) processing and demonstration for large‐area OSCs has been paid particular attention. The areas, where further advances will help in the commercial realization of this technology, have also been discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Highly Conserved Circular RNA, circRasGEF1B, Enhances Antiviral Immunity by Regulating the miR-21-3p/MITA Pathway in Lower Vertebrates

Siniperca chuatsi rhabdovirus (SCRV) is a typical fish RNA rhabdovirus, which is one of the most significant viral pathogens in teleost fish and can cause severe hemorrhagic septicemia in freshwater and marine fishes. Here, we discovered a highly conserved circRNA called circRasGEF1B, which acts as a key regulator for innate antiviral responses upon SCRV infection. circRasGEF1B acts as an endogenous sponge of miR-21-3p that downregulates miR-21-3p expression levels. circRasGEF1B is able to bind to miR-21-3p directly and regulates MITA expression. ABSTRACT Circular RNAs (circRNAs) represent a class of widespread, diverse, and covalently closed circRNAs that function as microRNA (miRNA) sponges and crucial regulators of gene expression in mammals. However, the regulation and function of circRNAs in lower vertebrates are still unknown. Here, we first discover a highly conserved circRNA termed circRasGEF1B, which displays a high conservation from mammals to fish and serves as key regulator in eliciting antiviral immunity in teleost fish. Results indicate that circRasGEF1B was highly expressed in Siniperca chuatsi rhabdovirus-infected tissues and cells. Functionally, miR-21-3p could inhibit cellular antiviral responses significantly, whereas circRasGEF1B counteracts the effects of miR-21-3p. In mechanism, the results demonstrate that circRasGEF1B acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-21-3p to relieve the repressive effect of miR-21-3p on its target MITA, then enhance the innate antiviral responses. Our results not only provide a novel insight into the functions of circRNAs in lower vertebrates but also broaden our understanding of circRNAs in viral infection. IMPORTANCE Siniperca chuatsi rhabdovirus (SCRV) is a typical fish RNA rhabdovirus, which is one of the most significant viral pathogens in teleost fish and can cause severe hemorrhagic septicemia in freshwater and marine fishes. Here, we discovered a highly conserved circRNA called circRasGEF1B, which acts as a key regulator for innate antiviral responses upon SCRV infection. circRasGEF1B acts as an endogenous sponge of miR-21-3p that downregulates miR-21-3p expression levels. circRasGEF1B is able to bind to miR-21-3p directly and regulates MITA expression. To our knowledge, this report is the first to characterize circRNA-miRNA regulatory networks that exist in lower vertebrates.