bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraction and generalisation of category-level information during visual statistical learning in autistic people
Authors: Parsons Owen , Baron-Cohen Simon
Published: July 2022

Background We aimed to assess whether autistic individuals were able to generalise across contexts when building statistical expectations of their environment to the same extent as non-autistic individuals. We did this by assessing the implicit awareness of statistical regularities in a sequence of naturalistic scene images in both autistic and non-autistic individuals. Methods125 participants (61 participants with an autism diagnosis and 64 non-autistic controls) were presented with a fast serial presentation sequence of images and given a cover task to avoid attention being explicitly drawn to patterns in the underlying sequences. This was followed by a two-alternative forced choice task to assess participants’ implicit recall. Participants were presented with 1 of 3 unique versions of the task, in which the presentation and assessment of statistical regularities was done at either a low feature-based level or a high semantic-based level. ResultsThere were no significant group differences in how performance varied across the 3 conditions, but there was an overall significant reduction in visual statistical learning in the autistic group. There was also a lack of statistical significant effect of learning for the autistic participants who completed the generalisation condition.LimitationsWhile the overall sample was fairly large, the sample sizes for the subgroups within the study were modest, so the lack of statistically significant effect of learning for the autistic participants who completed the generalisation condition may be due to a lack of power rather than a true absence of learning. Additionally, this study did not directly assess if semantic information was being processed to a similar extent by both autistic and non-autistic participants.ConclusionsThese results do not support the claim that autistic individuals experience difficulties in either acquiring or generalising statistic regularities at the category-level, but suggest that differences in visual statistical learning occur in autistic people.
Reflective functioning in children and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Costa-Cordella Stefanella , Rossi Alejandra , Sieverson Catalina , Grasso-Cladera Aitana , Badilla María Paz , Borgeaud Karin , León María Jose , Mora Simone Charpentier , Bizzi Fabiola
Published: July 2022

BackgroundThe emergence of COVID-19 has brought global awareness to the impact of the pandemic on mental health. Public health measures such as school closures and lockdowns led to overburdening both in children and their caregivers and increased emotional and behavioral problems, especially in low-income families.More work exploring families’ reflective functioning (RF)- the capacity to understand our own and others’ mental states- might help us understand the processes associated with mental health concerns in children and adolescents living with economic hardship.ObjectivesIn a sample of economically vulnerable caregiver-child dyads, the current study explored the relationship between parental and child RF, and the perceived stress levels of the caregiver and child during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodThe study utilized Pearson’s correlation on four instruments: the Child Attachment Interview and Parent Development Interview to evaluate the level of parental and child RF; plus, the Stress in Children Questionnaire and and Perceived Stress Scale to assess the levels of stress of each member of the dyad.ResultsAs expected, the RF levels of the caregiver and child were positively correlated. However, no association was found between the RF of either child or caregiver and their levels of perceived stress.ConclusionsDespite limitations, the present findings may have important implications for interventions, specifically those designed to improve parenting RF, which positively affects children’s mental health. Therefore, our findings highlight the potential of providing interventions based on parental RF to this population.
PACADI - Translation and adaptation of a Swedish-language version of the Pancreatic Cancer Disease Impact score
Authors: Andersson Thomas Karl-Axel , Olsén Monika Fagevik , Nouh Micheline Al , Bratlie Svein Olav
Published: July 2022

ObjectiveThe Norwegian Pancreatic cancer disease impact score (PACADI) is a digitalized analogue questionnaire that assesses different disease-specific symptoms. There is a need of translations of it into other languages. Therefore, the aim of this article is to describe the translation process of a Swedish version of PACADI and present its validity to EORCT QLQ PAN26.The self-administered questionnaire PACADI was translated according to guidelines and assessed by an expert panel of health care personnel. The test of its validity was performed with the disease-specific questionnaire for EORCT QLQ PAN26. Both questionnaires were completed by 66 subjects with pancreatic cancer, either before, at discharge or three months after surgery. Result The results between the groups indicate that patients suffer from different symptoms at different times. The correlations between the different symptoms of the two questionnaires were fair to good. In conclusion, PACADI and QLQ PAN 26 have a good correlation and PACADI can be used in clinical practise.
The first two years of COVID-19 in Italy: Incidence, lethality, and health policies
Authors: ferrante Pierpaolo
Published: July 2022

Background
The novel coronavirus disease is an ongoing pandemic that started in China in December 2019. The aim of this paper is to provide a detailed overview of the first two years of this pandemic in Italy.
Design and methods
: Using the negative binomial distribution, we estimated the daily incidence of infections from the virus lethality and the resulting deaths (estimated by weighted moving average). We adjusted the daily lethality of the original strain (estimated through national sero-surveys) for age, hazard ratios of virus variants of concern and the cumulative distribution of vaccinated people.
Results
From the 24th of February 2020 to the 28th of February 2022, we estimated 20,833,018 (20,728,924 − 20,937,375) cases distributed over 5 waves. The overall lethality was 0.73% and daily ranged from 2.78% (in the first wave) to 0.15% (in the last one). The first two waves showed the highest daily peaks of deaths (about 710), the last one showed the highest daily peak of infections (220,487). Restriction measures of population mobility strongly slowed the virus’s spread. During the second pandemic year, vaccines prevented 10,000,000 infections and 115,000 deaths.
Conclusion
In the summer, the main mode of transmission was presumably direct contact. A massive test campaign allowed monitoring of the virus’ spread, especially among the younger population. Mobility restriction measures are effective in a suppression strategy; distance learning and smart working are effective in a mitigation strategy. Despite the variants of concern, vaccines strongly reduced the pandemic impact on the healthcare system and avoided strong restriction measures.
Impact of total radiation dose on treatment outcomes of radiotherapy and concomitant superselective intra-arterial high-dose cisplatin in localized maxillary sinus cancer
Authors: Konishi Kenta , Kamiya Mika , Ohira Keiichi , Hirata Masanori , Wakabayashi Kohei , Ikenohira Tsutomu , Kosugi Takashi , Ushio Takasuke , Imai Atsushi , Mochizuki Daiki , Yamaguchi Yuki , Tanahashi Yukichi , Misawa Kiyoshi , Goshima Satoshi , Nakamura Katsumasa
Published: July 2022

Background
We investigated the efficacy of superselective intra-arterial infusion of high-dose cisplatin (CDDP) with concomitant radiotherapy (RADPLAT) using three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) or intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and we analyzed the relationship between the total radiation dose and the treatment outcome in localized maxillary sinus cancer.
Methods
We examined the cases of 58 patients with localized maxillary sinus cancer who were treated with RADPLAT at our institution from March 2004 to November 2020. These 58 patients include 34 who received 3DCRT and 24 who have received IMRT.
Results
The median follow-up period was 38.4 months. The median prescribed dose to the local lesion was 66 Gy in the 3DCRT group and 70 Gy in the IMRT group. CDDP (100–120 mg/m2) were administered with a median of 6 cycles once a week. The 5-year local control rate and overall survival rate were 69.9% and 72.2%, respectively. The patients who were treated with 70 Gy had significantly higher local control rate (87.7%) than the patients treated with 60 Gy or lower (41.0%) (p = 0.011).
Conclusions
The patients who had received 70 Gy using IMRT had significantly higher local control rate. The total dose may have an impact on the local control rate in RADPLAT.
GhBES1 mediates brassinosteroid regulation of leaf size by activating expression of GhEXO2 in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Authors: Li Shengdong , Xing Kun , Qanmber Ghulam , Chen Guoquan , Liu Le , Guo Mengzhen , Hou Yan , Lu Lili , Qu Lingbo , Liu Zhao , Yang Zuoren
Published: July 2022

Brassinosteroid (BR) is an essential phytohormone that controls plant growth. However, the mechanisms of BR regulation of leaf size remain to be determined. Here, we found that the BR deficient cotton mutant pagoda1 (pag1) had a smaller leaf size than wild-type CRI24. The expression of EXORDIUM (GhEXO2) gene, was significantly downregulated in pag1. Silencing of BRI1-EMS-SUPPRESSOR 1 (GhBES1), inhibited leaf cell expansion and reduced leaf size. Overexpression of GhBES1.4 promoted leaf cell expansion and enlarged leaf size. Expression analysis showed GhEXO2 expression positively correlated with GhBES1 expression. In plants, altered expression of GhEXO2 promoted leaf cell expansion affecting leaf size. Furthermore, GhBES1.4 specifically binds to the E-box elements in the GhEXO2 promoter, inducing its expression. RNA-seq data revealed many down-regulated genes related to cell expansion in GhEXO2 silenced plants. In summary, we discovered a novel mechanism of BR regulation of leaf size through GhBES1 directly activating the expression of GhEXO2.
Psychometric evaluation of the subjective well-being measure GP-CORE in a group of older adults in Sweden
Authors: Hochwälder Jacek , Gustafsson Lena-Karin , Östlund Gunnel , Zander Viktoria , Anbäcken Els-Marie , Elfström Magnus
Published: July 2022

Background: The world’s growing population of older adults is one population that needs to be focused more regarding subjective well-being. It is therefore important to evaluate self-report instrument that measures general well-being for this specific group - older adults. The aim of the present study was to investigate psychometric properties of the Swedish translation of the GP-CORE (general population – Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation) in a group of older adults (> 65 years).Methods: In this study, a psychometric evaluation of the GP-CORE is presented for 247 Swedish older adults (> 65 years), 184 women and 63 men who applied for home care assistance for the first time. Results: The psychometric evaluation showed high acceptability; provided norm values in terms of means, standard deviations and quartiles; showed satisfactory reliability in terms of both internal consistency and stability; showed satisfactory validity in terms of convergent and discriminant validity; provided a very preliminary cut-off value and quite low sensibility and sensitivity and showed results which indicated that this scale is sensitive to changes. One gender difference was identified in that women without a cohabitant had a higher well-being than men without a cohabitant (as measured by GP-CORE).Conclusions: The GP-CORE showed satisfactory psychometric properties to be used to measure and monitor subjective well-being in older adults (> 65 years) in the general population of community dwelling. Future studies should establish a cut-off value in relation to another well-being measure relevant for mental health in older adults.
Transcriptomic analysis of PBMCs reveals COX3, BCL2, ATP2B4, B4GALT1, LACTB, FASN and CSN family genes regulating milk performance in lactating Bos indicus cows of Southern India
Authors: Nizamuddin Azharuddin , Ramesha Kerekoppa P , Rana Ekta , Kasargod Sandeep , Behera Santosh Kumar , Ashokan Manokaran , Patil Arun H , Jeyakumar Sakthivel , Kumaresan Arumugam , Kataktalware Mukund Amritrao , Das Dayal Nitai , Srinisva Naveen Kumar Gowribidanur , Prasad Thottethodi Subrahmanya Keshava
Published: July 2022

The expression of genes related to lactogenesis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are less understood. To understand the biology of milk production in early lactating non pregnant cows in the blood, the transcriptome from PBMCs was analysed by RNA sequencing. We are able to generate a total of ~ 62.5 Gbp RNA-Seq data files (~ 24 million to ~ 35 million paired-end reads per sample) from high yielder (3) and low yielder (3) of Deoni and Hallikar breeds of Bos indicus (12 samples). The blood sample was collected from twelve early lactating non pregnant cows, the transcriptome from PBMCs was analysed by RNA sequencing. The QC passed reads were aligned against Bos taurus reference assemblies by using HiSAT2 alignment tool. An average of 79.25% and 74.28% reads were aligned in Deoni and Hallikar breeds, respectively. Amongst 85 genes were significantly differentially regulated between low yielder and high yielder of Deoni cows. On contrary, in Hallikar 492 genes were significantly differentially regulated between groups. Transcripts related to CSN gene family (CSN1S1, CSN1S2, CSN2 and CSN3) and FASN were significantly expressed in High yielders of Deoni cows. However, in low yielding Deoni cows and all Hallikar cows, these CSN gene family and FASN gene expression levels were poor or not at all expressed. However, the ATP2B4 (PMCA - Plasma membrane Ca2 + ATPase) gene is expressed only in Hallikar cows. Majority of the genes in lactating Deoni and Hallikar cows were linked to milk protein composition especially caseins, milk fat, lactose synthesis in milk and apoptosis activity in mammary glands. Our findings provide new insights into the understanding of molecular mechanism of differential milk yield among Bos indicus breeds. We believe that our study would be helpful in lactation biology and genetic selection.
Cd3 Epsilon Immune Restorative Ability Induced by Maitake Pro4x in Immunosupressed Balbc Mice.
Authors: Aguilera-Braico Diego Maximo , Balogh Gabriela Andrea
Published: July 2022

Objectives: The aim of this research was to determine if the rich beta glucan compound called Maitake Pro4X can recover the T cell/NK population depleted by Dexamethasone treatment in lymph nodes from cancer-free BALBc female mice. A CD3Ɛ molecular FITC labelled marker was used to measure the effect of Maitake D-Fraction Pro4X (5mg/Kg) on T cell/NK cells populations employing flow cytometry from immunosuppressed female BALBc mice in lymph nodes. There were employed other molecular markers such as CD19, CD105, Ly6G.Results: Maitake Pro4X (5mg/Kg) was able to recover 42.97% of the depleted CD3Ɛ FITC cell population level in Lymph nodes from immunosuppressed female BALBc mice from 4.328 ± 6.229 to 22.646 ± 12.393 (p<0.01) using Flow Cytometry. Maitake was also able to significantly increase the Ly6G PE cell population with p<0.05 in lymph nodes.
Clustering of 2D maps based on similarity in DFT‑calculated vs experimental 13C‑15N spin couplings for a representative sample of conformationally rigid and structurally fixed nitrogen‑containing compounds.
Authors: Stanishevskiy Vladislav V. , Shestakova Alla K. , Chertkov Vyacheslav A.
Published: July 2022

Nitrogen is an essential element involved in many interactions in living chemistry, the formation of hydrogen bonds, participation in the acidbase balance in vital systems. It plays a key role in the construction of a huge number of organic and natural compounds. Currently, structural studies of nitrogen-containing compounds require new approaches based on increasingly accurate and proven methods. In this connection, the constants of the spin-spin interaction with 15N nuclei seem to be very promising. In this work, we carried out an extended verification of the 13C15N spinspin coupling constants as a new structural indicator of nitrogen-containing compounds. In this regard, we performed a quantum-chemical calculation of a set of 193 spin-spin coupling values (B3LYP with basis functions 6-311 + + G(2df,2p)) for the set of all currently known conformationally rigid and structurally fixed nitrogen-containing compounds. Comparison of theoretical relationships with experimental ones shows a statistically significant good or excellent agreement. A parallel analysis of the variability of the calculated values of 13C15N spin bonds with the variability of experimental data within groups of related compounds turned out to be practically useful. Such an approach can provide important information for the unambiguous assignment of the 13C peaks and for determining the signs of the 13C15N spinspin coupling constants in cases where they have not previously been established experimentally.
Non-falciparum species and submicroscopic infections in three epidemiological malaria facets in Cameroon
Authors: Foko Loick Pradel Kojom , Hawadak Joseph , Motse Francine Dorgelesse Kouemo , Moukoko Carole Else Eboumbou , Mawabo Lugarde Kamgain , Pande Veena , Singh Vineeta
Published: July 2022

Background: There are growing reports on non-falciparum species and submicroscopic infections in sub-Saharan Africa countries but little information is available from Cameroon. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out in four towns (Douala, Maroua, Mayo-Oulo and Pette) from three malaria epidemiological strata (Forest, Sahelian and Soudanian) of Cameroon. Malaria parasites were detected by Giemsa light microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Non-falciparum samples were characterized and their 18S gene sequences were BLASTed. Results: Malaria parasites were PCR-detected in 82.4 % (98/119) of the patients and among them 12.2% (12/98) of asymptomatic cases. Three Plasmodium species viz. P. falciparum (Pf), P. ovale curtisi (PoC), and P. vivax (Pv), and two co-infection types (Pf + Pv and Pf + PoC) were found. The remaining infections were mono-infections with either Pf or PoC. All non-Pf infections were symptomatic and microscopic. The overall proportion of submicroscopic infections was 11.8% (14/119). Most of asymptomatic and submicroscopic infections cases were self-medicated with antimalarial drugs and/or medicinal plants. PoC sequences were phylogenetically closer to sequences from New Guinea, Benin and Guinea Bissau while Pv isolates appeared closer to those from China, Yemen and Iran. No G6PD-d case was found among the non-Pf infections. Conclusions: This study confirms our previous works on the circulation of Pv and PoC, and absence of P. knowlesi in Cameroon. More studies are needed to address non-falciparum malaria along with submicroscopic infections in context of antimalarial drug self-medication to efficiently manage and control malaria in Cameroon.
Assessment of the effects of multigenerational succession on soil chemical environment, fertility and enzyme activity in Eucalyptus plantations using structural equation modeling
Authors: Tang Jian , Zhao Junyu , Shi Yuanyuan , Qin Zuoyu , Chen Lijun , Song Xianchong , Huang Xiaorui , Wu Lichao
Published: July 2022

Eucalyptus is a short-rotation tree species widely used in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. However, the
high-intensity management mode of multi-generational succession has also made eucalyptus planting controversial due to
ecological and environmental problems, including soil degradation and declines in stand biomass. This paper aims to reveal
the effects of multi-generational succession of eucalyptus on soil fertility, organic structure, and biological properties. Soil
samples were collected from eucalyptus plantations of different stand ages (5, 11, 17, and 21 years old) in a typical area in
south Asia; soil organic fraction structure and content characteristics were investigated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR);
and structural equation modeling was used to explore the direct and indirect influences of soil fertility, enzyme activity, and
organic fraction on stand biomass. The results showed that the soil fertility and enzymatic activity indexes were significantly
different (p < 0.05) in different stand age soils, with the exception of total potassium and cellulase. FTIR analysis showed that
11 infrared absorption peaks existed in the soils of this study area, attributed to silicates, aromatics, carbonate ions, sugars,
esters and polysaccharides, aliphatic hydrocarbons, and phenolic alcohols. Combined with the results of peak area integration,
the content of esters (1088, 1165 cm1), aromatics (1631 cm1), and phenolic alcohols (3423 cm1) was significantly higher in 17-
and 21-year-old stand soils than in control soils. The results of the structural equation model showed that organic components
were negatively related (p < 0.01) to enzyme activity and biomass fertility, with standardized coefficients of 0.53 and 0.49,
respectively. In summary, we concluded that multi-generation succession of eucalyptus trees can change the structure of soil
organic functional group composition and promote the enrichment of aromatic and phenolic alcohol functional groups. The
results of the structural equation modeling established the relationships between stand age and soil fertility, organic fraction,
enzyme activity, and biomass. The increase in aromatic and phenolic alcohol functional groups was the main change in the
organic fraction of the soil. Such changes can directly inhibit the increase in eucalyptus biomass and indirectly negatively affect
biomass by inhibiting enzyme activity, and the combination of these two inhibitory pathways could be the main reason for the
decline in stand biomass after successive plantings of eucalyptus.
Cytotoxic effects of molybdenum oxide nanoparticles and {Mo36} polyoxomolybdate nanoclusters to the green microalga Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Kalehjahi Hanifeh Akbarian , Kosari-Nasab Morteza , Amini Mojtaba , Movafeghi Ali
Published: July 2022

In recent years, molybdenum-based nanomaterials have been widely used in different industrial sectors because of their multifunctional properties. Despite their extensive industrialization, there is a lack of needed information concerning their adverse influences on ecosystems and living organisms. In this study, molybdenum oxide nanoparticles (MoO3 NPs) and {Mo36} polyoxomolybdate nanoclusters ({Mo36} NCs) were synthesized using hydrothermal methods and characterized using FT-IR, XRD, and SEM techniques. Subsequently, their toxic effects on the green microalgae Chlorella vulgaris were measured. Both nanomaterials (NMs) induced cytotoxicity by reducing the cell number and biomass of algae in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Scanning electron microscopy revealed shape modification and plasmolysis of the microalgal cells after exposure to nanomaterials. Flow cytometric analyses confirmed the reduction in cell viability in the samples exposed to 100 mg L− 1 of MoO3 NPs and {Mo36} NCs for 4 days. According to the results, MoO3 NPs had more drastic effects on the viability of C. vulgaris cells compared to {Mo36} NCs. In addition, after exposure of algal cells to the high concentrations of nanomaterials, the content of photosynthetic pigments has decreased. Enhanced activities of antioxidative enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) concurrent with alteration of phenol and flavonoid contents as non-enzymatic antioxidants indicated the activation of cell defense systems in response to the oxidative stress induced by nanomaterials. Our findings conclusively established that MoO3 NPs and {Mo36} NCs cause life-threatening cytotoxicity in algal cells and induce oxidative stress.
Mechanism of Curaxin-dependent Nucleosome Unfolding by FACT
Authors: Studitsky Vasily , Volokh Olesya , Sivkina Anastasiia , Moiseenko Andrey , Popinako Anna , Karlova Maria , Valieva Maria , Kotova Elena , Kirpichnikov Mikhail , Formosa Tim , Sokolova Olga
Published: July 2022

Human FACT (FACT) is a multifunctional histone chaperone involved in transcription, replication and DNA repair. Curaxins are anticancer compounds that induce FACT-dependent nucleosome unfolding and trapping of FACT in the chromatin of cancer cells (c-trapping) through an unknown molecular mechanism. Here, we analyzed the effects of curaxin CBL0137 on nucleosome unfolding by FACT using spFRET and electron microscopy. By itself, FACT adopted multiple conformations, including a novel, compact, four-domain state in which the previously unresolved NTD of the SPT16 subunit of FACT was localized, apparently stabilizing a compact configuration. Multiple, primarily open conformations of FACT-nucleosome complexes were observed during curaxin-supported nucleosome unfolding. The structures of intermediates suggest “decision points” in the unfolding/folding pathway where FACT can either promote disassembly or assembly of nucleosomes, with the outcome possibly being influenced by additional factors. The data suggest novel mechanisms of nucleosome unfolding by FACT and c-trapping by curaxins.
Photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline antibiotic and organic dyes using biogenic synthesized CuO/Fe 2 O 3 nanocomposite: Pathways and mechanism insights
Authors: Kaushal Sandeep , Kumar Avdhesh , Bains Himani , Singh Pritpal
Published: July 2022

Tetracycline (TC) is a frequently administered antibiotic in many countries, due to its low price and excellent potency. However, certain antibiotics can be hazardous to living creatures due to their accumulation by complexation with metal ions which can contribute to teratogenicity and carcinogenicity. In this investigation, ferrous oxide-copper oxide nanocomposite (CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite) were synthesised employing Psidium guajava (P. guajava) leaf extract as a reductant and a capping agent in an environment friendly and economical green synthesis method. The as-synthesized CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite were comprehensively characterized using various sophisticated techniques and their efficiency as photocatalyst for degradation of TC antibiotic and toxic dyes i.e. rhodamine B (RhB) and methylene blue (MB) was investigated. The CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite exhibited exceptional efficiency for degradation of TC antibiotic (88% removal in 80 min), RhB (96% removal in 40 min) and MB (93% elimination in 40 min) with apparent rate constant of 0.048, 0.068 and 0.032 min− 1. In the degradation experiments, photocatalytic activities of CuO/Fe2O3 nanocomposite were studied by varying different factors such as time of contact, catalyst dose and solution pH. The role of reactive species in antibiotics and dye degradation was validated by radical scavenging studies which indicated that .OH radical has a critical role in photocatalytic decomposition. Furthermore, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) investigations were employed to anticipate a plausible mechanism for TC degradation.
Exact Gaussian Processes for Massive Datasets via Non-Stationary Sparsity-Discovering Kernels
Authors: Noack Marcus , Krishnan Harinarayan , Risser Mark , Reyes Kristofer
Published: July 2022

A Gaussian Process (GP) is a prominent mathematical framework for stochastic function approximation in science and engineering applications. This success is largely attributed to the GP's analytical tractability, robustness, non-parametric structure, and natural inclusion of uncertainty quantification.
Unfortunately, the use of exact GPs is prohibitively expensive for large datasets due to their unfavorable numerical complexity of $O(N^3)$ in computation and $O(N^2)$ in storage.
All existing methods addressing this issue utilize some form of approximation --- usually considering subsets of the full dataset or finding representative pseudo-points that render the covariance matrix well-structured and sparse. These approximate methods can lead to inaccuracies in function approximations and often limit the user's flexibility in designing expressive kernels.
Instead of inducing sparsity via data-point geometry and structure, we propose to take advantage of naturally-occurring sparsity by allowing the kernel to discover --- instead of induce --- sparse structure.
The premise of this paper is that GPs, in their most native form, are often naturally sparse, but commonly-used kernels do not allow us to exploit this sparsity. The core concept of exact, and at the same time sparse GPs relies on kernel definitions that provide enough flexibility to learn and encode not only non-zero but also zero covariances. This principle of ultra-flexible, compactly-supported, and non-stationary kernels, combined with HPC and constrained optimization, lets us scale exact GPs well beyond 5 million data points.
Rational Design of Stable Fluorescent and Hydrophobic Cellulose-based Film for Full-band UV-blocking by Surface Modification
Authors: Qiu Changjing , Liu Hongchen , Shen Kaiyuan , Yuan Mengzhen , Qi Haisong
Published: July 2022

A novel fluorescent, hydrophobic cellulose-based UV-blocking film was developed via chemical surface modification. Cellulose acetoacetate (CAA) film was firstly regenerated by acetyl acetylation of cellulose in a homogeneous system. Based on this esterified film with acetoacetyl groups, both 1,4-dihydropyridine (DHP) fluorescent ring and hydrophobic octadecylamine (ODA) were bonded to cellulose chains through Hantzsch reaction and the formation of enamine bond, by using a one-pot process under room temperature. The resulting film exhibited bright fluorescent and excellent UV-blocking properties (shielding almost 100% UV), which are very stable even being exposed to long periods of UV radiation, harsh temperature treatment and different solvents. In addition, this film has good hydrophobic feature (the contact angle reach up to 112°). This work provided a facile and environmentally friendly strategy to fabricate multifunctional cellulose-based film, which had great application potential in the field of UV protection, fluorescent materials, packaging and cover materials for greenhouse.
Clinical Significance of Curcuminoids Alone in Alleviating Pain and Dysfunction for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Feng Jie , Li Zhao , Tian Linling , Mu Panyun , Hu Yimei , Xiong Feng , Ma Xu
Published: July 2022

Background: Curcuminoids (CURs) are the principal ingredients of Curcuma longa L. [Zingiberaceae] (CL)—an herbal plant used in east Asia to alleviate pain and inflammation. Thus far, the therapeutic effects of CURs for knee osteoarthritis (OA) uncovered by multiple reviews remained uncertain due to broadly involving trials with different agents-combined or CURs-free interventions. Therefore, we formed stringent selection criteria and assessment methods to summarize current evidence on the effectiveness of CURs alone in the treatment of knee OA.Methods: A series of databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of CURs for knee OA. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using meta-analysis and the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for both statistical and clinical significance.Results: Fourteen studies with 1633 patients were included. Overall, CURs were significantly more effective than controls in the improvements of VAS for pain (WMD: −1.46, 95% CI: −2.13 to −0.8), WOMAC total score (WMD: −7.06, 95% CI: −12.27 to −1.84), WOMAC pain score (WMD: −1.42, 95% CI: −2.41 to −0.43), WOMAC function score (WMD: −5.04, 95% CI: −7.65 to −2.43), but not in WOMAC stiffness score (WMD: −0.34, 95% CI: −0.79 to 0.1). Moreover, the effect sizes of VAS for pain and WOMAC total score exceeded their MCID, while WOMAC subscale scores did not. Additionally, CURs did not significantly increase the incidence of adverse events (AEs) compared with placebo (RR: 1.22, 95% CI: 0.89 to 1.67), and significantly lowered the incidence of AEs when compared with NSAIDs (RR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.59 to 0.9).Conclusions: CURs alone can be expected to achieve considerable analgesic and functional promotion effects for patients with symptomatic knee OA in short term, without inducing an increase of adverse events. However, considering the low quality and substantial heterogeneity of present studies, a cautious and conservative recommendation for broader clinical use of CURs should still be made. Further high-quality studies are necessary to investigate the impact of different dosages, optimization techniques and administration approaches on long-term safety and efficacy of CURs, so as to strengthen clinical decision making for patients with symptomatic knee OA.
Estimation of the ED50 of propofol with intravenous lidocaine for inserting gastroscope without body movement in adult patients: A randomized, controlled study
Authors: Qi Xiu-Ru , Sun Jing-Yi , An Li-Xin , Zhang Ke
Published: July 2022

BackgroundCirculatory and respiratory depression are common problems that occur in propofol alone sedation during gastroscopy. As a widely used analgesic adjuvant, intravenous lidocaine can reduce the consumption of propofol during ERCP or colonoscopy. However, it is still unknown the ED50 of propofol when combined with lidocaine intravenously. This study aimed to estimate the ED50 of propofol, when combined with lidocaine as an adjuvant, for inserting gastrointestinal endoscope successfully.Methods59 patients undergoing gastroscopy or gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy were randomly divided into control group (Group C, normal saline + propofol) or lidocaine group (Group L, lidocaine + propofol). Patients were initially injected a bolus of 1.5 mg/kg lidocaine in Group L, whereas equivalent volume of 0.9% saline in Group C. Anaesthesia was then induced with a single bolus of propofol in all subjects. The induction dose of propofol was determined by the modified Dixon's up-and-down method, and the initial dose was 1.5mg/kg in both groups. The primary outcome was the ED50 of propofol induction dose. The secondary outcomes were the first time to add propofol, the movements and adverse events.ResultsTotally, 59 patients were enrolled and completed this study. Compared with the Group C, the ED50 of propofol induction dose was significantly reduced in the Group L (1.68±0.11 mg/kg vs. 1.88 ± 0.13 mg/kg) (P = 0.002). There was no statistical difference in induction time (P = 0.115) and the first propofol bolus time (P = 0.655) between the two groups.ConclusionThe estimated ED50 of propofol induction dose with intravenous lidocaine for successful endoscope insertion in adult patients, was significantly reduced compared with the saline group.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry, No: ChiCTR2200059450. Registered on 29 April 2022. Prospective registration. http://www.chictr.org.cn.
Experimental and computational investigations on structural, spectroscopic, electronic and thermodynamic, druggability and pharmacokinetics of a hybrid organic-inorganic synthetic arsenate
Authors: Mhadhbi Noureddine , Dgachi Souad , Issaoui Noureddine , Nasr Samia , Badraoui Riadh , Badraoui Bechir , Naïli Houcine
Published: July 2022

An experimental and theoretical study of the molecular structure of an organic arsenate templated by 4-aminopyridine, with the general formula (C5H7N2)(C5H8N2)[AsO4]·H2O ((4-APH)(4-APH2)[AsO4]·H2O), is presented. The optimized geometry, vibrational frequencies and various thermodynamic parameters of the title compound calculated using DFT methods are in agreement with the experimental values. The theoretical calculations were performed using density functional theory (DFT) method at B3LYP/6-311 + + G(d,p) basis set levels. A detailed interpretation of the IR and Raman spectra were reported. The thermodynamic functions (heat capacity, entropy, and enthalpy) from spectroscopic data by statistical methods were obtained for the range of temperature 100–1000 K. The molecular orbital calculations such as Natural Bond Orbitals (NBOs), AIM approach, HOMO-LUMO energy gap, Molecular electrostatic potential (MEP), NLO characteristic and Hirshfeld surface analysis were performed with the same DFT level. Electronic stability of the compound arising from hyper conjugative interactions and charge delocalization were investigated based on the natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. The molecular docking simulation results showed an excellent agreement with the experimental findings and satisfactory support the antiviral effects, the druggability and pharmacokinetic properties of the compound.
Congenital hypopituitarism and multiple midline defects in a newborn with non-familial Cat Eye syndrome
Authors: Serra Gregorio , Giambrone Clara , Antona Vincenzo , Cardella Francesca , Carta Maurizio , Cimador Marcello , Corsello Giovanni , Giuffrè Mario , Insinga Vincenzo , Maggio Maria Cristina , Pensabene Marco , Piro Ettore
Published: July 2022

BackgroundCat eye syndrome (CES) is a rare chromosomal disease, with estimated incidence of about 1 in 100,000 live newborns. The classic triad of iris coloboma, anorectal malformations, and auricular abnormalities is present in 40% of patients, and other congenital defects may also be observed. The typical associated cytogenetic anomaly relies on an extra chromosome, derived from an inverted duplication of short arm and proximal long arm of chromosome 22, resulting in partial trisomy or tetrasomy of such regions (inv dup 22pter-22q11.2).Case presentationWe report on a full-term newborn, referred to us soon after birth. Physical examination showed facial dysmorphisms, including hypertelorism, down slanted palpebral fissures, and dysplastic ears with tragus hypoplasia and pre-auricular pit. Ophthalmologic evaluation and heart ultrasound identified left chorioretinal and iris coloboma and ostium secundum type atrial septal defect, respectively. Based on the suspicion of cat eye syndrome, a standard karyotype analysis was performed, and detected an extra small marker chromosome confirming the CES diagnosis. The chromosomal abnormality was then defined by array comparative genome hybridization (a-CGH, performed also in the parents), which identified the size of the rearrangement (3 Mb), and its de novo occurrence. Postnatally, our newborn presented with persistent hypoglycemia and cholestatic jaundice. Endocrine tests revealed congenital hypothyroidism, cortisol and growth hormone (GH) deficiencies, which were treated with replacement therapies (levotiroxine and hydrocortisone). Brain magnetic resonance imaging, later performed, showed aplasia of the anterior pituitary gland, agenesis of the stalk and ectopic neurohypophysis, confirming the congenital hypopituitarism diagnosis. She was discharged at 2 months of age, and included in a multidisciplinary follow-up. She currently is 7 months old and shows a severe global growth failure, and developmental delay. She started GH replacement treatment, and continues oral hydrocortisone, along with ursodeoxycholic acid and levothyroxine, allowing an adequate control of glycemic and thyroid profiles as well as of cholestasis.ConclusionsCES phenotypic spectrum is wide and highly variable. Our report highlights how among the possible associated endocrine disorders, congenital hypopituitarism may occur, leading to persistent hypoglycemia and cholestasis. These patients should be promptly assessed for complete hormonal evaluations, in addition to major malformations and midline anomalies. Early recognition of such defects is necessary to decrease fatal events, as well as short and long-term related adverse outcomes.
Muscle deoxygenation and oxygen uptake plateau occurrence in children with obesity
Authors: Toulouse Louis , NEZONDET Charlie , MOREL Pierre , Mucci Patrick , Peze Thierry , ZUNQUIN Gautier
Published: July 2022

Background: In children with obesity, the imbalance between O2 delivery and extraction might be related to the inability to achieve VO2max during treadmill tests. The aim of the study is to characterize the changes in muscle deoxyhemoglobin (BPdeoxy[heme]) in the gastrocnemius medialis of children with obesity. 26 children with obesity (11.6±1.7 y) performed a treadmill walking test to exhaustion during which pulmonary gas exchanges and gastrocnemius medialis deoxy[heme] responses were measured continuously. BPdeoxy[heme] was determined for each participant using piecewise double-linear regressions. VO2peak and deoxy[heme] responses were compared between participants who achieved the criteria for verifying VO2max (VO2 plateau or both heart rate >95% and respiratory exchange ratio >1.0) and those not. Results: BPdeoxy[heme] was detected in 25 out of 26 participants at 77±9% VO2peak and occurred at a similar relative intensity both subgroups. There was no relationship between BPdeoxy[heme] and VO2peak. Conclusion: The imbalance between O2 delivery and extraction occur at high intensites during a treadmill walking test in youth with obesity, that may partly explain their difficulty to further continue the test regardless of the achievement of the criteria for verifying VO2max.
A Bayesian Approach to Model the Underlying Predictors of Early Recurrence and Postoperative Death in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Mahmoudi Leila , Fallah Ramezan , Roshanaei Ghodratollah , AsghariJafarabadi Mohammad
Published: July 2022

Objective: This study, aimed at using a Bayesian approach semi-competing risks technique to model the underlying predictors of early recurrence and postoperative death in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort of 284 patients with colorectal cancer who underwent surgery referred to Imam Khomeini clinic in Hamadan from 2001 to 2017. The primary outcomes were the probability of recurrence, the probability of death without recurrence, and the probability of death after recurrence. The patients 'recurrence status was determined from patients' records. The Bayesian survival modeling was carried out by semi-competing risks illness-death models in R 4.1 softwareResults: The results showed that gender(TR = 0.764 , 95% CI: 0.456 - 0.855), age at diagnosis (TR =0.764 , 95 % CI: 0.538 - 0.935 ), T 3 stage (TR = 0601 , 95 % CI : 0.530 - 0.713) , N2 stage ( TR = 0.714 , 95 % CI : 0.577 - 0.935 ) , tumor size (TR = 0.709 , 95 % CI : 0.610 - 0.929), Grade (differentiation level) (TR = 0.856 , 95 % CI: 0.733 - 0.988 for poor level , TR = 0.648 , 95 % CI : 0.503 - 0.955 for moderate level) and number of chemotherapy (TR =1.583 , 95 % CI: 1.367 - 1.863) was significantly related with recurrence . Also, age at diagnosis (TR= 0.396 , 95% CI : 0.313 - 0.532) , metastasis to other sites (TR = 0.566 , 95% CI : 0.490 - 0.835) , T3 stage (TR = 0.363 , 95 % CI : 0.592 - 0.301), T4 stage (TR = 0.434 , 95 % CI : 0.347 - 0.545) , Grade (differentiation level) at moderate level (TR = 0.527 , 0.95 %CI : 0.387 - 0.674), tumor size (TR = 0.595 95 % CI : 0.500 - 0.679) and number of chemotherapy (TR= 1.541 , 95% CI : 1.332 - 2.243) was the significantly predicted the death. Also, age at diagnosis (TR= 0.659, 95% CI: 0.559 - 0.803) and number of chemotherapy (TR= 2.029, 95% CI: 1.792 - 2.191) was significantly related to death after recurrence.Conclusion: According to the specific results obtained for terminal and nonterminal events, appropriate screening strategies and the earlier detection of CRC leads to substantial improvements in the survival of patients.
Epidemiologic features, clinical characteristics, and predictors of mortality in patients with candidemia in Alameda County, California; a 2017-2020 retrospective analysis
Authors: Meyahnwi Didien , Siraw Bekure B. , Reingold Arthur
Published: July 2022

BackgroundBlood stream infections caused by Candida species are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, with an ever-changing epidemiology. We conducted this study to assess trends in the epidemiologic features, risk factors and Candida species distribution in candidemia patients in Alameda County, California.MethodsWe analyzed data collected from patients in Alameda County, California between 2017 and 2020 as part of the California Emerging Infections Program (CEIP). This is a laboratory-based, active surveillance program for candidemia. In our study, we included incident cases only.ResultsDuring the four-year period from January 1st, 2017, to December 31s, 2020, 392 incident cases of candidemia were identified. The mean crude annual cumulative incidence was 5.9 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (range 5.0-6.5 cases per 100,000 population). Candida glabrata was the most common Candida species and was present as the only Candida species in 149 cases (38.0%), followed by Candida albicans, 130 (33.2%). Mixed Candida species were present in 13 patients (3.3%). Most of the cases of candidemia occurred in individuals with one or more underlying conditions. Multivariate regression models showed that age ≥ 65 years (RR 1.66, CI 1.28-2.14), prior administration of systemic antibiotic therapy, (RR 1.84, CI 1.06-3.17), cirrhosis of the liver, (RR 2.01, CI 1.51-2.68), and prior admission to the ICU (RR1.82, CI 1.36-2.43) were significant predictors of mortality.ConclusionsThe species of candida causing candidemia in Alameda County are currently shifting from Candida albicans to non-albicans species.
Comparison between different visual acuity tests and validation of a digital device
Authors: Montori Blanca , López Estela , Alejandre Adrián , Vilella Marina , Pan Xian , Pueyo Victoria , Ortín Marta , Pérez-Roche Teresa
Published: July 2022

PURPOSETo compare different visual acuity tests (printed and digital, symbols and letters) and to validate a new device for visual acuitytesting called DIVE. METHODSVisual acuity was tested in a wide spectrum of adult people with printed tests (ETDRS and LEA symbols) and with two tests implemented in DIVE (HOTV and DIVE symbols). Results of visual acuity values were comparedwithintraclass correlation coefficient and with Bland Altman method. RESULTSRight eyes from 50 adult participants were included in the study. Correlation between tests was high (ICC from 0.93 to 0.98). Bland Altman graphics showed good agreement among the different tests, with differences within clinical reasonable limits. The maximum difference between mean values was 0.09LogMar, less than1 line of distance. However, slightly higher values were obtained with HOTV and DIVE symbols, followed by ETDRS and LEA. CONCLUSIONDIVE visual acuity assessments are reliable tests highly correlated with traditional visual acuity tests.
Global studies on a continuous planar piecewise linear differential system with three zones
Authors: Jia Man , Su Youfeng , Chen Hebai
Published: July 2022

This paper is concerned with the global dynamics of a continuous planar piecewise linear differential system with three zones, where the dynamic of the one of the exterior linear zones is saddle and the remaining one is anti-saddle. We give all global phase portraits in the Poincare disc and the complete bifurcation diagram including scabbard bifurcation curves, homoclinic bifurcation curves and double limit cycle bifurcation curve. Its application in a second-order memristor oscillator is shown. Finally, some numerical phase portraits are demonstrated to illustrate our theoretical results.