Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Depression as a Risk Factor for Developing Heart Failure

Background The associations of depression with incident heart failure (HF) risk based on epidemiological studies have been inconsistent. Objective We aimed to quantitatively estimate the relative effect of depression on the development of HF. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies published between January 1, 1950, and August 31, 2019, from PubMed, Embase, and the Science Citation Index databases. We selected prospective cohort studies reporting the relationship between depression and incident HF. Maximally adjusted hazard ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were combined using a random-effects model. The heterogeneity across studies was calculated by the I2 statistic. This meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO (number CRD42020149274). Results Six population-based, prospective cohort studies with 4727 HF events among 131 282 participants were eligible for meta-analysis. Compared with participants reporting no depression, those with depression had a 23% increased risk of developing HF (pooled hazard ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.41). There was no significant heterogeneity across studies (χ2 = 7.75, df = 5, P = .17, I2 = 35.5%). Conclusion Published literature supports a significant association of depression with an increased incidence of HF in the general population.
FREEZE-EXPLOSION TECHNIQUE FOR INCREASING CELLULOSE HYDROLYSIS.

A novel pretreatment has been developed to increase the reactivity of cellulose, in particular to increase the rate and extent of cellulose hydrolysis. This technique is called the freeze-explosion method and relies on treatment of the cellulosic material with a volatile liquid under pressure followed by pressure release to evaporate the liquid and reduce the temperature. Volatile liquids which also chemically swell and decrystallize cellulose are particularly effective when used in this method. Greater than 90% of theoretical conversion of cellulose to glucose has been achieved by enzymatic hydrolysis of alfalfa and rise straw treated with liquid ammonia using this freeze-explosion technique. 8 tables.
Does electronic consent improve the logistics and uptake of HPV vaccination in adolescent girls? A mixed-methods theory informed evaluation of a pilot intervention

Objectives To evaluate the usability and acceptability of an electronic consent pilot intervention for school-based immunisations and assess its impact on consent form returns and human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine uptake. Design Mixed-methods theory-informed study applying qualitative methods to examine the usability and acceptability of the intervention and quantitative methods to assess its impact. Setting and participants The intervention was piloted in 14 secondary schools in seven London boroughs in 2018. Intervention schools were matched with schools using paper consent based on the proportion of students with English as a second language and students receiving free school meals. Participants included nurses, data managers, school-link staff, parents and adolescents. Interventions An electronic consent portal where parents could record whether they agreed to or declined vaccination, and nurses could access data to help them manage the immunisation programme. Primary and secondary outcome measures Comparison of consent form return rates and HPV vaccine uptake between intervention and matched schools. Results HPV vaccination uptake did not differ between intervention and matched schools, but timely consent form return was significantly lower in intervention schools (73.3% vs 91.6%, p=0.008). The transition to using electronic consent was not straightforward, while schools and staff understood the potential benefits, they found it difficult to adapt to new ways of working which removed some level of control from schools. Reasons for lower consent form return in e-consent schools included difficulties encountered by some parents in accessing and using the intervention. Adolescents highlighted the potential for electronic consent to by-pass their information needs. Conclusions The pilot intervention did not improve consent form return or vaccine uptake due to challenges encountered in transitioning to new working practice. New technologies require embedding before they become incorporated in everyday practice. A re-evaluation once stakeholders are accustomed with electronic consent may be required to understand its impact.
A computational model of bidirectional axonal growth in micro-tissue engineered neuronal networks (micro-TENNs)

Micro-Tissue Engineered Neural Networks (Micro-TENNs) are living three-dimensional constructs designed to replicate the neuroanatomy of white matter pathways in the brain, and are being developed as implantable microtissue for axon tract reconstruction or as anatomically-relevant in vitro experimental platforms. Micro-TENNs are composed of discrete neuronal aggregates connected by bundles of long-projecting axonal tracts within miniature tubular hydrogels. In order to help design and optimize micro-TENN performance, we have created a new computational model including geometric and functional properties. The model is built upon the three-dimensional diffusion equation and incorporates large-scale uni- and bi-directional growth that simulates realistic neuron morphologies. The model captures unique features of 3D axonal tract development that are not apparent in planar outgrowth, and may be insightful for how white matter pathways form during brain development. The processes of axonal outgrowth, branching, turning and aggregation/bundling from each neuron are described through functions built on concentration equations and growth time distributed across the growth segments. Once developed we conducted multiple parametric studies to explore the applicability of the method and conducted preliminary validation via comparisons to experimentally grown micro-TENNs for a range of growth conditions. Using this framework, this model can be applied to study micro-TENN growth processes and functional characteristics using spiking network or compartmental network modeling. This model may be applied to improve our understanding of axonal tract development and functionality, as well as to optimize the fabrication of implantable tissue engineered brain pathways for nervous system reconstruction and/or modulation.
Silver Nanoparticle Regulates Salt Tolerance in Wheat Through Changes in ABA Concentration, Ion Homeostasis, and Defense Systems

Salinity is major abiotic stress affecting crop yield, productivity and reduces the land-usage area for agricultural practices. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of green-synthesized silver nanoparticle (AgNP) on physiological traits of wheat (Triticum aestivum) under salinity stress. Using augmented and high-throughput characterization of synthesized AgNPs, this study investigated the proximity of AgNPs-induced coping effects under stressful cues by measuring the germination efficiency, oxidative-biomarkers, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, proline and nitrogen metabolism, stomatal dynamics, and ABA content. Taken together, the study shows a promising approach in salt tolerance and suggests that mechanisms of inducing the salt tolerance depend on proline metabolism, ions accumulation, and defense mechanisms. This study ascertains the queries regarding the correlation between nanoparticles use and traditional agriculture methodology; also significantly facilitates to reach the goal of sustainable developments for increasing crop productivity via much safer and greener approachability.
Laser refractive surgery in corneal dystrophies

PRK was not indicated in Meesmann and Avellino dystrophies. LASIK was indicated in PPCD but not in FECD, Avellino, or Cogan dystrophy. SMILE did not achieve enough scientific literature. Twenty-eight case reports and case series published between 2000 and 2019 concerning laser refractive surgery in patients with corneal dystrophies, resulting in 173 eyes from 94 patients, were included in this systematic review. Best results were achieved in posterior corneal polymorphous and Cogan dystrophy. Unfavorable results were found in Avellino dystrophy and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). Photorefractive keratectomy was not indicated in Meesmann and Avellino dystrophy. Laser in situ keratomileusis was indicated in posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy but not in FECD, Avellino, or Cogan dystrophy. Small-incision lenticule extraction and other dystrophies such as lattice, fleck, Lisch, or François did not achieve enough scientific evidence to report any recommendation.
Transcriptional regulation of adipogenic marker genes for the improvement of intramuscular fat in Qinchuan beef cattle

Abstract The intramuscular fat content plays a crucial role in meat quality traits. Increasing the degree of adipogenesis in beef cattle leads to an increase in the content of intramuscular fat. Adipogenesis a complex biochemical process which is under firm genetic control. Over the last three decades, the Qinchuan beef cattle have been extensively studied for the improvement of meat production and quality traits. In this study, we reviewed the literature regarding adipogenesis and intramuscular fat deposition. Then, we summarized the research conducted on the transcriptional regulation of key adipogenic marker genes, and also reviewed the roles of adipogenic marker genes in adipogenesis of Qinchuan beef cattle. This review will elaborate our understanding regarding transcriptional regulation which is a vital physiological process regulated by a cascade of transcription factors (TFs), key target marker genes, and regulatory proteins. This synergistic action of TFs and target genes ensures the accurate and diverse transmission of the genetic information for the accomplishment of central physiological processes. This information will provide an insight into the transcriptional regulation of the adipogenic marker genes and its role in bovine adipogenesis for the breed improvement programs especially for the trait of intramuscular fat deposition.
Exploring the Prevalence of Pediatric Chronic Pain and School Absenteeism for Therapists Working in Schools: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

Abstract Aim To explore the prevalence of school absenteeism for children with chronic pain and to identify the characteristics of children with chronic pain who report absenteeism. Methods Systematic review with meta-analyses of quantitative studies. Studies were included if they reported mean days absent from school in children with chronic pain aged 5–18 years, attending a full-time school program. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Participant characteristics of age, gender, pain duration, pain type, and data collection setting were collated. Results Eighteen quantitative studies involving 2963 children with chronic were included. Studies had moderate to high quality of evidence. Meta-analysis demonstrated 13.28 mean days were spent absent from school in a 60-day period (95% CI 10.21, 16.34) (p < 0.001). Participants were predominantly females (71.8%) aged 14.1 years (SD 2.32). The most experienced pain type was combined headache or head pain (46.9%) and average duration since pain onset was 32.5 months (SD 36.34). Conclusions Children with chronic pain aged 5–18 years are absent for approximately 22% of school days, in a 60-day period. Early, targeted intervention for absenteeism and poor school functioning is recommended. Future research could evaluate the role of school-based therapists in screening at risk students and improving attendance and outcomes.
Traditional medicinal plants against replication, maturation and transmission targets of SARS-CoV-2: computational investigation

Abstract COVID-19 is an infectious pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The critical components of SARS-CoV-2 are the spike protein (S-protein) and the main protease (Mpro). Mpro is required for the maturation of the various polyproteins involved in replication and transcription. S-protein helps the SARS-CoV-2 to enter the host cells through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Since ACE2 is required for the binding of SARS-CoV-2 on the host cells, ACE2 inhibitors and blockers have got wider attention, in addition to S-protein and Mpro modulators as potential therapeutics for COVID-19. So far, no specific drugs have shown promising therapeutic potential against COVID-19. The current study was undertaken to evaluate the therapeutic potential of traditional medicinal plants against COVID-19. The bioactives from the medicinal plants, along with standard drugs, were screened for their binding against S-protein, Mpro and ACE2 targets using molecular docking followed by molecular dynamics. Based on the higher binding affinity compared with standard drugs, bioactives were selected and further analyzed for their pharmacological properties such as drug-likeness, ADME/T-test, biological activities using in silico tools. The binding energies of several bioactives analyzed with target proteins were relatively comparable and even better than the standard drugs. Based on Lipinski factors and lower binding energies, seven bioactives were further analyzed for their pharmacological and biological characteristics. The selected bioactives were found to have lower toxicity with a higher GI absorption rate and potent anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activities against targets of COVID-19. Therefore, the bioactives from these medicinal plants can be further developed as phytopharmaceuticals for the effective treatment of COVID-19. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma Traditional medicinal plant bioactives can potentially inhibit SARS-CoV-2 protein targets. Computational investigation revealed that selected medicinal plant bioactives have the optimal pharmacological and biological activities against COVID-19.
Distinguish the Role of Radiotherapy From Chemoradiotherapy for Gastric Cancer With Behavior of Metastasis-Indolent in Lymph Node

Background: Although the landmark INT-0116 trial and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines recommended pT3-4Nx gastric cancer (GC) patients to receive chemoradiotherapy, the role of radiotherapy has not been distinguished from chemoradiotherapy. Methods: GC with behavior of metastasis-indolent in lymph node (MILN) being confirmed with more than 15 examined LNs after gastrectomy were identified using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Result (SEER) database. The cancer-specific survival (CSS) of subgroups for radiotherapy, chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy and non-adjuvant-treatment were compared. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed between radiotherapy and non-radiotherapy subgroups to further distinguish the role of radiotherapy from chemoradiotherapy. Cox regression was performed to identify whether radiotherapy or chemotherapy could independently improve prognosis. Results: We identified 690 MILN GC patients in SEER database. 5-year CSS was 71.9% in radiotherapy subgroup and 75.1% in non-radiotherapy subgroup(HR = 1.013, 95% CI = 0.714-1.438, p = 0.940), 75.6% in chemotherapy subgroup and 68.5% in non-chemotherapy subgroup(HR = 0.616, 95% CI = 0.430-0.884, p = 0.008), 52.5% in radiotherapy-alone subgroup and 71.9% in non-adjuvant treatment group (HR = 1.604, 95% CI = 0.575-4.471, p = 0.360), 72.9% in chemoradiotherapy subgroup and 79.5% in chemotherapy-alone subgroup (HR = 1.365, 95% CI = 0.859-2.172, p = 0.185), respectively. Further, PSM markedly improved balance of variables between radiotherapy subgroup and non-radiotherapy subgroup. After PSM, the role of the variables of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in contributing to improving CSS are consistent with that before PSM. Cox regression showed chemotherapy, tumor size, tumor invasiveness and Lauren classification were independent prognostic factors, but not including radiotherapy. Conclusions: Chemoradiotherapy confers superior prognosis to MILN GC patients compared with surgery alone might only be attributed to chemotherapy rather than radiotherapy.
Assessment of Dietary Sodium Intake Using the Scored Salt Questionnaire in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease

The excess intake of dietary sodium is a key modifiable factor for reducing disease progression in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the scored salt questionnaire (SSQ; a frequency questionnaire of nine sodium-rich food types) is a valid instrument to identify high dietary salt intake in ADPKD. The performance of the SSQ was evaluated in adults with ADPKD with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 during the screening visit of the PREVENT-ADPKD trial. High dietary sodium intake (HSI) was defined by a mean 24-h urinary sodium excretion ≥ 100 mmol/day from two collections. The median 24-h urine sodium excretion was 132 mmol/day (IQR: 112–172 mmol/d) (n = 75; mean age: 44.6 ± 11.5 years old; 53% female), and HSI (86.7% of total) was associated with male gender and higher BMI and systolic blood pressure (p < 0.05). The SSQ score (73 ± 23; mean ± SD) was weakly correlated with log10 24-h urine sodium excretion (r = 0.29, p = 0.01). Receiving operating characteristic analysis showed that the optimal cut-off point in predicting HSI was an SSQ score of 74 (area under the curve 0.79; sensitivity 61.5%; specificity 90.0%; p < 0.01). The evaluation of the SSQ in participants with a BMI ≥ 25 (n = 46) improved the sensitivity (100%) and the specificity (100%). Consumers with an SSQ score ≥ 74 (n = 41) had higher relative percentage intake of processed meats/seafood and flavourings added to cooking (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the SSQ is a valid tool for identifying high dietary salt intake in ADPKD but its value proposition (over 24-h urinary sodium measurement) is that it may provide consumers and their healthcare providers with insight into the potential origin of sodium-rich food sources.
Deficiency of Notch signaling in pericytes results in arteriovenous malformations

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are high-flow lesions directly connecting arteries and veins. In the brain, AVM rupture can cause seizures, stroke, and death. Patients with AVMs exhibit reduced coverage of the vessels by pericytes, the mural cells of microvascular capillaries; however, the mechanism underlying this pericyte reduction and its association with AVM pathogenesis remains unknown. Notch signaling has been proposed to regulate critical pericyte functions. We hypothesized that Notch signaling in pericytes is crucial to maintain pericyte homeostasis and prevent AVM formation. We inhibited Notch signaling specifically in perivascular cells and analyzed the vasculature of these mice. The retinal vessels of mice with deficient perivascular Notch signaling developed severe AVMs, together with a significant reduction in pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMC) in the arteries, while vSMCs were increased in the veins. Vascular malformations and pericyte loss were also observed in the forebrain of embryonic mice deficient for perivascular Notch signaling. Moreover, the loss of Notch signaling in pericytes downregulated Pdgfrb levels and increased pericyte apoptosis, pointing to a critical role for Notch in pericyte survival. Overall, our findings reveal a mechanism of AVM formation and highlight the Notch signaling pathway as an essential mediator in this process.
Association of MICA and HLA‐B alleles with leprosy in two endemic populations in Brazil

Leprosy is a prevalent disease in Brazil, which ranks as the country with the second highest number of cases in the world. The disease manifests in a spectrum of forms, and genetic differences in the host can help to elucidate the immunopathogenesis. For a better understanding of MICA association with leprosy, we performed a case–control and a family‐based study in two endemic populations in Brazil. MICA and HLA‐B alleles were evaluated in 409 leprosy patients and in 419 healthy contacts by PCR‐SSOP‐Luminex‐based technology. In the familial study, analysis of 46 families was completed by direct sequencing of all exons and 3′/5′untranslated regions, using the Ilumina MiSeq platform. All data were collected between 2006 and 2009. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi‐square or Fisher's exact test together with a multivariate analysis. Family‐based association was assessed by transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) software FBAT 2.0. 4. We found associations between the haplotype MICA*002‐HLA‐B*35 with leprosy in both the per se and the multibacillary (MB) forms when compared to healthy contacts. The MICA allele *008 was associated with the clinical forms of paucibacillary (PB). Additionally, MICA*029 was associated with the clinical forms of MB. The association of MICA*029 allele (MICA‐A4 variant) with the susceptibility to the MB form suggests this variant for the transmembrane domain of the MICA molecule may be a risk factor for leprosy. Two MICA and nine HLA‐B variants were found associated with leprosy per se in the Colônia do Prata population. Linkage disequilibrium analysis revealed perfect linkage disequilibrium (LD) between HLA‐B markers rs2596498 and rs2507992, and high LD (R2 = .92) between these and the marker rs2442718. This familial study demonstrates that MICA association signals are not independent from those observed for HLA‐B. Our findings contribute the knowledge pool of the immunogenetics of Hansen's disease and reveals a new association of the MICA*029 allele.
ISG20 and nuclear exosome promote destabilization of nascent transcripts for spliceosomal U snRNAs and U1 variants

Primary RNA transcripts are processed in a plethora of ways to become mature functional forms. In one example, human spliceosomal U snRNAs are matured at their 3′‐end by an exonuclease termed TOE1. This process is important because mutations in TOE1 gene can cause a human genetic disease, pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH). Nevertheless, TOE1 may not be the only maturation exonuclease for U snRNAs in the cell. Here, we biochemically identify two exonucleolytic factors, Interferon‐stimulated gene 20‐kDa protein (ISG20) and the nuclear exosome as such candidates, using a newly developed in vitro system that recapitulates 3′‐end maturation of U1 snRNA. However, extensive 3′‐end sequencing of endogenous U1 snRNA of the knockdown (KD) cells revealed that these factors are not the maturation factors per se. Instead, the nascent transcripts of the spliceosomal U snRNAs as well as of unstable U1 variants were found to increase in quantity upon KD of the factors. These results indicated that ISG20 and the nuclear exosome promote the degradation of nascent spliceosomal U snRNAs and U1 variants, and therefore implied their role in the quality control of newly synthesized U snRNAs.