bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of 93 Rice Cultivars (Lines) (Oryza Sativa Xian Group) in Qinba in China By 3 Types of Genetic Markers
Authors: Zhang Yu , He Qiaoqiao , Zhou Xixi , Wang Yewen , Li Peijiang , Wang Yuexing , Zheng Shimao
Published: January 2022

Background: The Qinba region is the transition region between Indica and Japonica varieties in China. It has a long history of Indica rice planting of more than 7000 years and is also a planting area for fine-quality Indica rice. The aims of this study are to explore different genetic markers applied to the analysis population structure, genetic diversity, selection and optimization of molecular markers of Indica rice, thus providing more information for the protection and utilization on germplasm resources of Indica rice. Methods: 15 phenotypic traits, a core set of 48 SSR markers as well as SNPs data obtained by genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS, NlaIII and MseI digestion, referred to as SNPs-NlaIII and SNPs-MseI, respectively) for this panel of 93 samples using the Illumina HiSeq2000 sequencing platform, were employed to explore the genetic diversity and population structure of 93 samples.Results: The average of coefficient of variation (CV) and diversity index (He) were 29.72% and 1.83 ranging from 3.07% to 137.43%, and from 1.45 to 2.03, respectively. The correlation coefficient between 15 phenotypic traits ranged from 0.984 to -0.604. The first four PCs accounted for 70.693% phenotypic variation based on phenotypic analysis. A total of 379 alleles were obtained using SSR markers, encompassing an average of 8.0 alleles per primer. Polymorphic bands (PPB) and polymorphism information content (PIC) was 88.65% and 0.77, respectively. The Mantel test showed that the correlation between the genetic distance matrix based on SNPs-NlaIII and SNPs-MseI was the largest (R2=0.88), and that based on 15 phenotypic traits and SSR was the smallest (R2=0.09). The 93 samples could be clustered into two subgroups by 3 types of genetic markers. Molecular variance analysis revealed that the genetic variation was 2% among populations and 98% within populations (the Nm was 0.16), Tajima’s D value was 1.66, the FST between the two populations was 0.61 based on 72,824 SNPs. Conclusions: The population genetic variation explained by SNPs was larger than that explained by SSRs. The gene flow of 93 samples used in this study was larger than that of naturally self-pollinated crops, which may be caused by long-term breeding selection of Indica rice in the Qinba region. The genetic structure of the 93 samples was simple and lacked rare alleles.
Integrated analyses of the single-cell ATAC-seq and RNA-seq reveal the epigenetic landscape of human ovarian aging
Authors: Xu Yunzhao , Chen Jinling , Gu Shuting , Liu Yuanlin , Ni Huihua , Huang Yan , Gao Sainan , Sheng Nan , Zhang Xiaojing , He Xin , Zhou Songlin , Ge Wenliang
Published: January 2022

Studying the molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging is crucial for understanding the age-related fertility issues in females. Recently, a single-cell transcriptomic roadmap of ovarian aging based on non-human primates revealed the molecular signatures of the oocytes at different developmental stages. Herein, we present the first epigenetic landscape of human ovarian aging, through an integrated analysis of the single-cell assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing (scATAC-seq) and single-cell RNA-seq. We depicted the transcriptional profiles and chromatin accessibility of the ovarian tissues isolated from old (n=4) and young (n=2) donors. The unsupervised clustering of data revealed seven distinct cell populations in the ovarian tissues and six subtypes of oocytes, which could be distinguished by age difference. Further analysis of the scATAC-seq data from the young and old oocytes revealed that the interaction between the Notch signaling pathway and AP-1 family transcription factors may crucially determine oocyte aging. Finally, a machine-learning algorithm was applied to calculate the optimal model based on the single-cell dataset for predicting oocyte aging, which exhibited excellent accuracy with a cross-validated area under the receiver operating characteristics score of 0.99. In summary, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of human ovarian aging at both the transcriptomic and epigenetic levels, based on an integrated analysis of large-scale single-cell datasets. We believe our results will shed light on the discovery of potential therapeutic targets or diagnostic markers for age-related ovarian disorders.
The Functionality of Health Facility Governing Committees and Their Associated Factors in Selected Primary Health Facilities Implementing Direct Health Facility Financing in Tanzania
Authors: Kesale Anosisye , Mahonge Christopher , Muhanga Mikidadi
Published: January 2022

Background: Decentralization has dominated the agenda for the reforms of the organization of service delivery in Lower and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Decentralization faces a formidable challenge of fiscal decentralization in primary healthcare facilities. Of now, LMICs are implementing fiscal decentralization reforms to empower health facilities and their Health Facility Governing Committees (HFGCs). Given the paucity of the impact of fiscal decentralization, this study was conducted to assess the functionality of HFGCs and their associative factors in primary health care facilities implementing fiscal decentralization through Direct Health Facility Financing (DHFF) in Tanzania.Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed to gather both qualitative and quantitative data. The study was conducted in 32 selected primary health facilities implementing DHFF in Tanzania. Probability and nonprobability sampling procedures were employed, in which a multistage sampling procedure was used to select 280 respondents. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Descriptive analysis was employed to determine the functionality of HFGCs and binary logistic regression was employed to determine associated factors for the functionality of HFGC. Qualitative analysis was done through thematic analysis.Result: HFGC functionality under DHFF has been found to be good by 78.57%. Specifically, HFGCs have been found to have good functionality in mobilizing communities to join Community Health Funds 87.14%, participating in the procurement process 85%, discussing community health challenges 81.43% and planning and budgeting 80%. The functionality of HFGCs has been found to be associated with the planning and budgeting aspects p-value of 0.0011, procurement aspects p-value 0.0331, availability of information reports p-value 0.0007 and Contesting for HFGC position p-value 0.0187.Conclusion: The study has revealed that fiscal decentralization through DHFF significantly improves the functionality of HFGCs. Therefore, the study recommends more effort be put into facilitating the availability of finances to the health facilities.
Electroredox Carbene Organocatalysis with iodine cocatalyst
Authors: Zhou Peng , Li Wenchang , Lan Jianyong , Zhu Tingshun
Published: January 2022

Oxidative carbene organocatalysis, inspired from Vitamin B1 catalyzed oxidative activation from pyruvate to acetyl coenzyme A, have been developed as a versatile synthetic method. To date, the α-, β-, γ-, δ- and carbonyl carbons of (unsaturated)aldehydes have been successfully activated via oxidative N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) organocatalysis. In comparison with chemical redox or photoredox methods, electroredox methods, although widely used in mechanistic study, were much less studied in NHC catalyzed organic synthesis. Herein, an electroredox NHC organocatalysis system with iodine cocatalyst was developed. With the help of non-uniform distribution of electrolysis system, NHC and iodine, which was normally not compatible in chemical reaction, cooperated well in the electrochemical system. This cocatalyst system provided general solutions for electrochemical single-electron-transfer (SET) oxidation of Breslow intermediate towards versatile transformations. Radical clock experiment and cyclic voltammetry results suggested an anodic radical coupling pathway.
Selective skeletal editing of polycyclic arenes using organophotoredox dearomative functionalization
Authors: Wang Wei , Ji Peng , Davies Cassondra , Gao Feng , Chen Jing , Meng Xiang , Houk Kendall , Chen Shuming
Published: January 2022

Reactions that lead to destruction of aromatic ring systems often require harsh conditions and, thus, take place with poor selectivities. Selective partial dearomatization of fused arenes is even more challenging but it can be a strategic approach to creating versatile, complex polycyclic frameworks. Herein we describe a general organophotoredox approach for the chemo- and regioselective dearomatization of structurally diverse polycyclic aromatics, including quinolines, isoquinolines, quinoxalines, naphthalenes, anthracenes and phenanthrenes. The success of the new method for chemoselective oxidative rupture of aromatic moieties relies on precise manipulation of the electronic nature of the fused polycyclic arenes. Experimental and computational results show that the key to overcoming the intrinsic thermodynamic and kinetic unfavorability of the dearomatization process is an ultimate hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) step, which enables dearomatization to predominate over the otherwise favorable aromatization pathway. We show that this strategy can be applied to rapid synthesis of biologically valued targets and late-stage skeletal remodeling en route to complex structures.
Antimicrobial And Synergistic Activity of The Drug Association of Allium Sativum And Antibiotics Against Group B Streptococcus
Authors: Lima Sônia Maria Rolim Rosa , Gamberini Maria Thereza , Rodrigues Domingos Sávio , Junior Pedro Ismael Silva , Torres Kátia Andrea de Menezes
Published: January 2022

Maternal colonization by Group B Streptococcus during pregnancy increases the risk of neonatal infection due to vertical transmission from mother to fetus before or during labor. The aims of this study were to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of SP80 (obtained from RGE) and its synergism associated with the antibiotic against strains of Streptococcus agalactiae. Biomonitoring of SP80 disclosed antimicrobial activity only in fractions F18, F19, F20 and F42. The broth microdilution was used to determine the antimicrobial activity of SP80 and fractions from SP80 and to establish the MIC of SP80 (2.40 mg/mL). By using the disk diffusion method, fifty-five clinical isolates of S. agalactiae and 1 ATCC were tested against the association of SP80 with antibiotic penicillin G and ampicillin, respectively, for synergistic assessment. The association of SP80 with penicillin G showed that the mean of the inhibition halos decreased, but it was not significant, with p<0.07. In contrast, the association of SP80 with ampicillin caused the mean inhibition halos to increase with a p<0.001, a significant result. SP80 has antimicrobial activity against S. agalactiae Gram-positive bacteria, and the association with the antibiotic ampicillin showed a synergistic effect, which did not occur when in association with penicillin G.
Lipases and carboxylesterases are involved in interspecific pheromone differences between two moth species
Authors: de Fouchier Arthur , Fruitet Elise , Lievers Rik , Kuperus Peter , Emerson Jennifer , Gould Fred , Heckel David , Groot Astrid
Published: January 2022

Moth sex pheromones are a classical model for studying sexual selection. Females produce a species-specific pheromone blend that attracts males. Revealing the enzymes involved in the interspecific variation in blend composition is key for understanding the evolution of these sexual communication systems. The nature of the enzymes involved in the variation of acetate esters, which are prominent compounds in moth pheromone blends, remains unclear. We identified enzymes involved in acetate metabolism in two closely related species: Heliothis (Chloridea) subflexa and H. (C.) virescens, which differ in production of acetate esters. Through comparative transcriptomic analyses and CRISPR/Cas9 knockouts, we showed that two lipases and two esterases induce lower levels of acetate esters in female pheromones. To place our findings in an evolutionary context, we explored the molecular evolution of related lipases and esterases in Lepidoptera. Together, our results show that lipases and carboxylesterases are unexpectedly involved in tuning Lepidoptera pheromones composition.
Remodeling Articular Immune Homeostasis with an Efferocytosis-inspired Nanoimitator Mitigates Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Jiang Xinyi , Zhang Shengchang , Chai Qihao , Tang Chunwei , Li Ziyang , Man Zhentao , Chen Chen , Zhang Jing , Liu Ying , Sun Peng , Zhang Rui , Yang Zhenmei , Han Maosen , Wang Yan , Wei Xia , Li Jun , Li Wei , Abdalla Mohnad , Yu Gongchang , Shi Bin
Published: January 2022

Massive intra-articular infiltration of the pro-inflammatory macrophages is a prominent feature of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) lesions, which are thought to underlie articular immune dysfunction, severe synovitis and ultimate joint erosion. Here we report an efferocytosis-inspired nanoimitator (EINI) for in situ targeted reprogramming of the synovial inflammatory macrophages (SIMs) and thus thwarting their autoimmune attack and reinstating articular immune homeostasis, which mitigates RA. The EINI consisted of a drug-based core with an oxidative stress-responsive phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) corona and a shell of P-selectin-blocking motif, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). When systemically administrated, the LMWH on the EINI first bound to P-selectin overexpressed on endothelium in subsynovial capillaries, which functioned as an antagonist disrupting neutrophils synovial trafficking. Due to the high dysregulation of the synovial microvasculature, the EINI subsequently enriched in joint synovium where the shell was exfoliated upon the reactive oxygen species stimulation, and PtdSer corona was then exposed. In an efferocytosis-like manner, the PtdSer-coroneted core was in turn phagocytosed by SIMs, which synergistically terminated the SIMs-initiated pathological cascades and serially reconstructed the intra-articular immune homeostasis, conferring a chondroprotection effect. These findings demonstrate that SIMs can be precisely remodeled via the efferocytosis-mimetic strategy, which holds great potential for RA treatment.
The Protective Effect of Kirenol in Osteoarthritis: an in Vitro and in Vivo Study
Authors: Hu Wei , Mao Chao , Sheng Weibin
Published: January 2022

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease, its main characteristic involves articular cartilage destruction and inflammation response, absent of effective medical treatment. Our current research aimed to explore anti-inflammatory effect of kirenol, a diterpenoid natural product compound, in the development of OA and its potential molecular mechanism through in vitro and in vivo study.Methods: In vitro, chondrocytes were pretreated with kirenol for 2 h before IL-1β stimulation. Production of NO, PGE2, TNF-α, IL-6, aggrecan, collagen-II, MMP13and ADAMTS5 were evaluated by the Griess reaction and ELISAs. The mRNA (aggrecan and collagen-II) and protein expression (COX-2, iNOS, P65, IκB, PI3K, AKT) were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blot respectively. Immunofluorescence was used to assess the expression of collagen-II and P65. The in vivo effect of kirenol was evaluated in mice OA models induced by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM).Results: We found that kirenol inhibited IL-1β-induced expression of NO, PGE2, TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, iNOS, ADAMTS-5. Besides, kirenol remarkably decreased IL-1β-induced degradation of aggrecan and collagen-II. Furthermore, kirenol significantly inhibited IL-1β-induced phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling. In vivo, the cartilage in kirenol-treated mice exhibited less cartilage degradation and lower OARSI scores.Conclusions: Taken together, the results of this study provide potent evidence that kirenol could be utilized as a potentially therapeutic agent in prevention and treatment of OA.
Greater Reduction of Blood Pressure with Exercise Intervention Than Standard Care After Recent Ischaemic Atroke: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Francis-Emmanuel Patrice , Boyne Michael , Ryan Alice , Hafer-Macko Charlene , Macko Richard , Osmond Clive , Lawrence-Wright Marilyn , Green Curtis , Nelson Gail , Forrester Terrence
Published: January 2022

Context and Objectives: Ischaemic stroke (IS) causes disability and uses massive public health resources. Cumulative disability from recurrence may be reduced with cardiometabolic risk reduction strategies e.g., lowering blood pressure (BP). We hypothesized that intensive exercise plus best available care in adults with recent IS improves fitness, glucose metabolism, muscle protein synthesis in paretic limbs compared to controls. BP changes were compared between intervention (INT) and controls (CON). Research Design and Setting: A randomised, interventional clinical trial conducted in Jamaican adults subjects: We investigate 103 adults with recent IS and residual weakness. Forty-nine subjects (24 women: mean age 61.5; 25 men: mean age 63.8) received task-oriented exercise training (TEXT) plus best available care. Fifty-four subjects (23 women: mean age 60.2; 31 men: mean age 61.3) received best care, including exercise advice. Measurements: We measured baseline, 3-month and 6-month BP. Results: After recent IS, TEXT plus best available care reduced systolic BP by 21 mmHg and diastolic by 12 mmHg compared to controls, independent of medication adherence, body composition; stroke severity. Men in the TEXT group had increased lean mass (P < 0.007), VO2 max (P = 0.03); 6-minute walk distance (P = 0.003). Leg press on paretic (P = 0.004) and non-paretic (P < 0.001) increased with TEXT vs CON over 6 months, in both sexes (P-values for sex difference > 0.2). Time-to-chair-rise decreased in both sexes who received intervention vs controls (P <0.04) Conclusions: TEXT results in significant blood pressure reduction in adults with recent ischaemic stroke and residual weakness when compared with best available medical care only.
Bone Health in Children With Risk Factors for Low Bone Mass
Authors: Magallares Berta , Cerda Dacia , Betancourt Jocelyn , Fraga Gloria , Quesada-Masachs Estefanía , Lopez-Corbetó Mireia , Torrent Montserrat , Marin Ana , Herrera Silvia , Gich Ignasi , Boronat Susana , Zilberman Samuel , Casademont Jordi , Corominas Hector , Malouf Jorge
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To describe clinical and biological characteristics of pediatric patients with at least one risk factor (RF) for low bone mass for chronological age (LBMca)/childhood osteoporosis (cOP) and to assess its influence on bone mineral density (BMD).Methods: Patients between 2 and 20 years of age with at least 1 RF were recruited. Daily calcium intake, number of previous fractures and other RFs and their distribution among different groups were assessed. Spine and whole body DXA and vertebral morphometry were performed.Results: 103 patients were included. Mean age was 9.8 years old. 52.4% were female. Of the RFs, 84.5% presented insufficient calcium intake, 38.8% were receiving or had received corticosteroids, 31.1% were receiving other treatments with osteotoxic potential, 13.6% led a sedentary lifestyle, 12.6% presented history of fractures, and up to 8.1% had hypovitaminosis D. 38% of the cohort had 2 RFs, 31% had 3 RFs, 15% had 4 RFs, and 12% associated 5 or more RFs. 10.5% met LBMca criteria and 4.8% met cOP criteria. 73% of vertebral BMD was justified by age and hypovitaminosis D (positive effect), and male sex and Hispanic ethnicity (negative effect). 82% of total body less head BMD was justified by age (positive effect), and Hispanic ethnicity and sedentary lifestyle (negative effect).Conclusions: Pediatric populations with risk of LBM/cOP have 2 or more risk factors. Up to 10.5% of children with RFs present LBM and 4.8% have an unknown cOP. RFs related to changes in BMD are age, sex, sedentary lifestyle, ethnicity, and hypovitaminosis D.
Identification of a Key Glioblastoma Candidate Gene, FUBP3, Based on Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis
Authors: Li Jianmin , Zhang Zhao , Guo Ke , Wu Shuhua , Guo Chong , Zhang Xinfan , Wang Zi
Published: January 2022

Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common aggressive malignant brain tumor. However, the molecular mechanism of glioblastoma formation is still poorly understood. To identify candidate genes that may be connected to glioma growth and development, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to construct a gene co-expression network between gene sets and clinical characteristics. We also explored the function of the key candidate gene.Methods: Two GBM datasets were selected from GEO Datasets. The R language was used to identify differentially expressed genes. WGCNA was used to construct a gene co-expression network in the GEO glioblastoma samples. A custom Venn diagram website was used to find the intersecting genes. The GEPIA website was used for survival analysis to determine the significant gene, FUBP3. OS,DSS, and PFI analyses, based on the UCSC Cancer Genomics Browser, were performed to verify the significance of FUBP3. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of FUBP3 in glioblastoma and adjacent normal tissue. KEGG and GO enrichment analyses were used to reveal possible functions of FUBP3. Microenvironment analysis was used to explore the relationship between FUBP3 and immune infiltration. Immunohistochemistry was performed to verify the results of the microenvironment analysis.Results: GSE70231 and GSE108474 were selected from GEO Datasets, then 715 and 694 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from GSE70231 and GSE108474, respectively, were identified. We then performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and identified the most downregulated gene modules of GSE70231 and GSE108474, and 659 and 3915 module genes from GSE70231 and GSE108474, respectively, were selected. Five intersection genes (FUBP3, DAD1, CLIC1, ABR, and DNM1) were calculated by Venn diagram. FUBP3 was then identified as the only significant gene by survival analysis using the GEPIA website. OS, DSS, and PFI analyses verified the significance of FUBP3. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed FUBP3 expression in GBM and adjacent normal tissue. KEGG and GO analyses uncovered the possible function of FUBP3 in GBM. Tumor microenvironment analysis showed that FUBP3 may be connected to immune infiltration, and immunohistochemistry identified a positive correlation between immune cells (CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and macrophages) and FUBP3.Conclusion: FUBP3 is associated with immune surveillance in GBM, indicating that it has a great impact on GBM development and progression. Therefore, interventions involving FUBP3 and its regulatory pathway may be a new approach for GBM treatment.
Fungal xenosiderophores from mycobiota and diet promote Salmonella colonization of the inflamed gut
Authors: Santus William , Rana Amisha , Devlin Jason , Kiernan Kaitlyn , Jacob Carol , Tjokrosurjo Joshua , Underhill David , Behnsen Judith
Published: January 2022

The fungal gut microbiota (mycobiota) has been implicated in diseases that disturb gut homeostasis. However, little is known about functional relationships between bacteria and fungi in the gut during infectious colitis. We investigated the role of fungal metabolites during infection with the intestinal pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. We found that in the gut lumen, both the mycobiota and fungi present in the diet can be a source of siderophores, small molecules that scavenge iron from the host. The ability to use fungal siderophores, such as ferrichrome and coprogen, conferred a competitive growth advantage to Salmonella strains expressing the fungal siderophore receptors FhuA or FhuE in vitro and in a mouse model. Our study highlights the role of inter-kingdom cross-feeding between fungi and Salmonella, and elucidates a new function for the gut mycobiota, revealing the importance of these under-studied members of the gut ecosystem during bacterial infection.
Preconditioning Prefrontal Connectivity Using Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Authors: Alkhasli Isabel , Mottaghy Felix M. , Binkofski Ferdinand , Sakreida Katrin
Published: January 2022

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) have been shown to modulate functional connectivity. Their specific effects seem to be dependent on the pre-existing neuronal state. We aimed to precondition frontal networks using tDCS and subsequently stimulate the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (lDLPFC) using TMS. Thirty healthy participants underwent either excitatory, inhibitory or sham tDCS for 10 min, as well as an excitatory intermittent theta burst (iTBS) protocol (600 pulses in 190 s, 20 x 2 s trains), applied over the lDLPFC at 90% of the individual resting motor threshold. Functional connectivity was measured in three task-free, 10-min-long baseline resting state fMRI sessions, immediately before and after tDCS, as well as after iTBS. Connectivity analyses between stimulation site and all other brain voxels, contrasting the interaction effect between the experimental tDCS groups (excitatory vs inhibitory) and the repeated measure (post tDCS vs. post TMS), revealed significantly affected voxels bilaterally in the anterior cingulate and paracingulate gyri, the caudate nuclei, the insula and operculum cortices, as well as the Heschl’s gyrus. ROI-to-ROI analyses additionally showed temporo-parietal-striatal and temporo-parietal-fronto-cingulate differences between the anodal and cathodal group post tDCS, as well as striatal-temporo-parietal anodal-cathodal differences and frontostriatal cathodal-sham group differences post TMS. Excitatory iTBS to a tDCS-inhibited lDLPFC yielded stronger functional connectivity to various areas, as compared to excitatory iTBS to a tDCS-enhanced prefrontal cortex. Results demonstrate complex, whole-brain stimulation effects, most-likely facilitated by cortical homeostatic control mechanisms, as well as the feasibility of using tDCS to modulate TMS effects.
Mucosal TLR2-activating protein-based vaccination induces potent pulmonary immunity and protection against SARS-CoV-2 in mice
Authors: Ashhurst Anneliese , Johansen Matt , Maxwell Joshua , Ashley Caroline , Aggarwal Anupriya , Siddiquee Rezwan , Miemczyk Stefan , Nguyen Duc , Mackay Joel , Counoupas Claudio , Byrne Scott , Turville Stuart , Steain Megan , Triccas James , Hansbro Philip , Payne Richard , Britton Warwick
Published: January 2022

Current vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 substantially reduce mortality, but protection against infection is less effective. Enhancing immunity in the respiratory tract, via mucosal vaccination, may provide protection against infection and minimise viral spread. We tested a novel subunit vaccine in mice, consisting of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein with a TLR2-stimulating adjuvant, delivered to mice parenterally or mucosally. Both routes of vaccination induced substantial neutralising antibody (nAb) titres, however, mucosal vaccination uniquely generated anti-Spike IgA, increased nAb in the serum and airways, and increased lung CD4+ T-cell responses. TLR2 is expressed by respiratory epithelia and immune cells. Using TLR2 deficient chimeric mice, we determined that TLR2 expression in either compartment facilitated early innate responses to mucosal vaccination. By contrast, TLR2 on hematopoietic cells was essential for optimal lung-localised, antigen-specific responses. In a K18-hACE2 mice, vaccination provided complete protection against disease and sterilising lung immunity against SARS-CoV-2. These data support mucosal vaccination as a strategy to improve protection in the respiratory tract against SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses.
Comparison of Clinical Results Between a 4-point Scleral Fixation of Intraocular Lenses Using Gore-tex Suture and a 2-point Fixation Using Prolene Suture
Authors: Han Jeong Mo , Cha Dong Min , Ku Hee Chan , Lim Dong Kwon , Lee Eun Koo , Yu Hyeong-Gon
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To compare clinical outcomes between a 4-point scleral fixation of intraocular lenses (IOLs) using Gore-Tex suture or a 2-point scleral fixation using Prolene sutureMethods: In this multicenter, retrospective cohort study, patients were enrolled who had undergone a pars plana vitrectomy and either a 4-point scleral fixation using Gore-Tex suture or a 2-point scleral fixation using Prolene suture. Preoperative biometrics, postoperative refractive outcomes, and postoperative surgical complication rates were evaluated.Results: Thirty-seven eyes underwent scleral fixation with Gore-Tex suture, while 44 eyes underwent scleral fixation with Prolene suture. Postoperative best corrected visual acuity was 0.20 (± 0.34) in the Gore-Tex group and 0.21 (± 0.28) in the Prolene group (logMAR, 20/32 on the Snellen scale) (p = 0.691). No significant difference was found in the average prediction error between the Gore-Tex (-0.13 ± 0.68 D) and Prolene (-0.21 ± 1.27 D) groups (p = 0.077). The postoperative complication rate was lower in the Gore-Tex group (17%) than in the Prolene group (41%) (p = 0.023).Conclusion: A 4-point scleral fixation using Gore-Tex suture may be a good alternative to a conventional scleral fixation using Prolene suture for IOL implantations in eyes without capsular support, with a lower risk of postoperative complications.
The Predictive Five: a Supervised Learning Approach to Personality Psychology
Authors: Gilead Michael , Lavi Gal , Rosenblatt Jonathan
Published: January 2022

In the current study, we set out to examine the viability of a novel approach to modeling human personality. Research in psychology suggests that people’s personalities can be effectively described using five broad dimensions (the Five-Factor Model; FFM); however, the FFM potentially leaves room for improved predictive accuracy. We propose a novel approach to modeling human personality that is based on the maximization of the model’s predictive accuracy. Unlike the FFM, which performs unsupervised dimensionality reduction, we utilized a supervised machine learning technique for dimensionality reduction of questionnaire data, using numerous psychologically meaningful outcomes as data labels (e.g., intelligence, well-being, sociability). The results showed that our five-dimensional personality summary, which we term the “Predictive Five” (PF), provides predictive performance that is better than the FFM on two independent validation datasets, and on a new set of outcome variables selected by an independent group of psychologists. The approach described herein has the promise of eventually providing an interpretable, low-dimensional personality representation, which is also highly predictive of behavior.
Detection of Radicalisation and Extremism Online: A Survey
Authors: Tanoli Irfan , Pais Sebastião , Cordeiro João , Jamil Muhammad Luqman
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Due to the lack of regulation, the large volume of user-generated online content reflects more closely the offline world than official news sources. Therefore, social media platforms have become an attractive space for anyone seeking independent information. One of the main goals of this work is to clarify concepts such as Extremism and Collective Radicalisation, Social Media, Sentiments/Emotions/Opinions Analysis, as well as the combinations of all of them. Methods: The automatic identification of extremism and collective radicalisation requires sophisticated Natural Language Processing (NLP) methods and resources, especially those dealing with opinions, emotions or sentiment analysis. Text mining and knowledge extraction are also crucial, in particular, directed toward social media and micro-blogging. Results: The present document comprehends a study on theoretical material, focusing on the main concepts of the subject, including the main problems and challenges, from the different areas that compose online radicalisation research. Understanding and detecting extremism and collective radicalism online has a connection to sentiment analysis and opinion mining. There are many barriers to understanding extremism and collective radicalisation; one is to differentiate between who is really engaged in the process and who is just eventually talking about it. Conclusions: The other focus of this work is to find the best ways to identify extremism and collective radicalisation on the internet, using sentiment analysis and focusing on probabilistic methods to create an unsupervised and language-independent approach.
In situ X-ray and acoustic observations of deep seismic faulting upon phase transitions in mantle olivine
Authors: Ohuchi Tomohiro , Higo Yuji , Tange Yoshinori , Sakai Takeshi , Matsuda Kohei , Irifune Tetsuo
Published: January 2022

Activity of deep earthquakes, which increases with depth from ~400 km to a peak at ~600 km and abruptly decreases to zero at 680 km, is enigmatic, because brittle failure is unlikely to occur under the corresponding pressures of 13−24 GPa. It has been suggested that pressure-induced phase transitions of olivine in subducted slabs are responsible for occurrence of the deep earthquakes, based on deformation experiments under pressure. However, most experiments were made using analogue materials of mantle olivine and at pressures below ~5 GPa, which are not applicable directly to the actual slabs. Here we report the results of deformation experiments combined with in situ X-ray observations and acoustic emission measurements on (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 olivine at 11−17 GPa and 860−1250 K, equivalent to the conditions of colder regions of the slabs subducted into the mantle transition region. We find that faulting occurs only at very limited temperatures of 1100−1160 K, accompanied by intense acoustic emissions from both inside and outside of the sample, immediately before the rupture. The formation of lenticular packets filled with nanocrystalline olivine and wadsleyite is confirmed in the recovered sample without faulting, indicating that the faulting is caused by adiabatic shear heating along the weak layer of the connected lenticular packets, where nanocrystalline olivine plays important roles. Our study suggests that the transformational faulting occurs on the isothermal surface of the metastable olivine wedge in subducted slabs, leading to deep earthquakes in limited regions and depth range.
Implications of Multiple Numerical Aspects for Carreau Nanofluids With Heat Generation/absorption via Nonuniform Channels
Authors: Hashim Hashim , Rehman Sohail
Published: January 2022

Nanomaterials are unique work fluids with preeminent thermal performance for improving heat dissipation. We present theoretical and mathematical insights into nanofluid heat transfer and flow dynamics in nonuniform channels utilizing a non-Newtonian fluid. Therefore, the impacts of heat absorption/generation and Joule heating in a magneto hydrodynamic flow of a Carreau nanofluid into a convergent channel with viscous dissipation are addressed in this mathematical approach. Brownian and thermophoresis diffusion are considered to investigate the behavior of temperature and concentration. The magnetic effects on the flow performance are measured. The leading nonlinear equations are solved numerically using the BVP4c solver and RK-4 (Runge–Kutta) along with the shooting algorithm using the computer software MATLAB. The obtained dual solutions are presented graphically. The consequences of the variable magnetic field, heat absorption/generation and numerous physical parameters on the temperature and concentration field are surveyed. The outcomes show that increasing the rates of the heat absorption/generation parameter and Eckert number enhances the thickness of the thermal profile of the convergent channels, while increasing the value of the Prandtl number expands the thickness of the momentum boundary layer of the convergent channels. The key findings related to the study models are presented and discussed. An assessment of solutions achieved in this article is made with existing data in the literature.
Torque Teno Virus in Nasopharyngeal Aspirate of Children With Respiratory Infections
Authors: Rosal Teresa del , García-García María Luz , Casas Inmaculada , Alcolea Sonia , Iglesias-Caballero María , Pozo Francisco , Rodrigo-Muñoz Jose Manuel , Pozo Victoria del , Calvo Cristina
Published: January 2022

Torque teno virus (TTV) is responsible for persistent infections and is considered a marker of immune function. The role of TTV as a facilitator of respiratory infections(RIs) is unknown. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of TTV in the nasopharyngeal aspirate (NPA) of hospitalized children with RIs and correlate them with outcomes and immune response. NPA was taken for testing 16 respiratory viruses by RT-polymerase chain reaction (PCR), TTV PCR, and immunological study.Sixty hospitalized children with an RI and 3 healthy control infants were included. A total of 51/60 patients had a positive common respiratory viral (CRV) identification. A total of 24/63 (38.1%) children were TTV+ and had other CRVs in 95.8% of cases vs 74.4% in TTV- (p=0.029). TTV+ patients tended to be older, have fever, and need PICU admission more often than TTV- patients. Abnormal chest X-ray was more frequent in the TTV+ patients, OR 2.6(95% CI:1.3-5.2).The genetic expression of filaggrin (involved in epithelial barrier integrity) was lower in TTV+ patients; however, levels of filaggrin in the NPA were increased.In summary, TTV infection is common in children with RI and could be associated with pneumonia, greater severity, and alteration in filaggrin gene expression and protein release.
A Single Center 9-Year Experience in IVC Filter Retrieval - The Importance of an IVC Filter Registry.
Authors: Sheehan Mark , Coppin Kristopher , Brien Cormac O’ , McGrath Andrew , Given Mark , Keeling Aoife , Lee Michael J
Published: January 2022

Background:To evaluate Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter retrieval practices over a 9-year period at an academic hospital with a prospectively maintained IVC filter registry. Method:An IVC filter registry was maintained prospectively within our institution. We reviewed cases between August 2011 and June 2020, following filter status, retrieval plans, and eventual retrieval date. The validity of the database was cross referenced with a Picture Archiving and Communication System and patient records. Results:343 patients had IVC filters inserted. Three filter types were used, Celect (Cook Medical) in 189, Gunther Tulip (GT) (Cook Medical) in 65, ALN (ALN) in 89. 196 filters were retrieved, 108 were made permanent, 36 died before retrieval, and 3 were yet to be retrieved. Retrieval rates were 92.5% overall (86% for GT, 93% for Celect and 94.5% for ALN). The mean dwell time for successful retrieval was 59 days with the majority of insertions (85%) removed in under 100 days. Failed initial retrieval occurred in 23 patients, 10 (43%) were retrieved at second attempt, 13/23 filters remained in-situ and were deemed permanent after discussion with the patient and referring team. Conclusion:The removal of IVC filters, when indication for insertion has past, is no longer the sole responsibility of the referring physician but also the responsibility of the Interventionalist. Our retrieval rates of 92.5% of eligible IVC filters highlights the value of maintaining a prospective IVC filter registry.
Functional Genomics Analysis to Disentangle the Role of Genetic Variants in Major Depression
Authors: Pérez-Granado Judith , Piñero Janet , Medina-Rivera Alejandra , Furlong Laura I.
Published: January 2022

Background: Major Depression is the leading cause of impairment worldwide. The understanding of its molecular underpinnings is key to identifying new potential biomarkers and drug targets to alleviate its burden in society. Leveraging available GWAS data and functional genomic tools to assess regulatory variation could help explain the role of Major Depression associated genetic variants in disease pathogenesis. We have conducted a fine-mapping analysis of genetic variants associated with Major Depression and applied a pipeline focused on gene expression regulation by using two complementary approaches: cis-eQTL colocalization analysis using GTEx data and alteration of transcription factor binding sites with pattern matching approaches and chromatin accessibility data.Results: The fine-mapping of major depression genetic variants uncovered putative causally associated variants whose proximal genes were linked with Major Depression pathophysiology. Four genetic variants altering the expression of 5 genes were found by colocalization analysis, highlighting the role of SLC12A5, involved in chlorine homeostasis in neurons, and MYRF, related with central nervous system myelination and oligodendrocyte differentiation. The transcription factor binding analysis revealed the potential role of the genomic variant rs62259947 in modulating the expression of P4HTM through the alteration of YY1 binding site, altogether regulating hypoxia response.Conclusions: The combination of GWAS signals, cis-eQTL, transcription factor binding site information and active regulatory regions in the chromatin, enabled the prioritization of putative causal genetic variants in Major Depression. Importantly, our pipeline can be applied when only index genetic variants are available. Finally, the presented approach enabled the proposal of mechanistic hypotheses of these genetic variants and their role in disease pathogenesis.
Neutralizing antibody titres to SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant and wild-type virus in those with past infection or vaccinated or boosted with mRNA BNT162b2 or inactivated CoronaVac vaccines
Authors: Peiris Malik , Cheng Samuel , Mok Chris Ka Pun , Leung Yonna , Ng Susanna , Chan Karl , Ko Fanny , Yiu Karen , Lam Bosco , Lau Eric , Chan Ken , Luk Leo , Li John , Tsang Leo , Poon Leo , Chen Chunke , Hui David
Published: January 2022

Omicron, a novel SARS-CoV-2 variant has emerged and is rapidly becoming the dominant SARS-CoV-2 virus circulating globally. It is important to define reductions in virus neutralizing activity in serum of convalescent or vaccinated individuals to understand potential loss of protection from infection or re-infection. Two doses of BNT162b2 or CoronaVac vaccines provided little 50% plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT50) antibody immunity against the Omicron variant, even at one-month post vaccination. Booster doses with BNT162b2 in those with two doses of either BNT162b2 or CoronaVac provided acceptable neutralizing immunity against Omicron variant at 1-month post-booster dose. However, three doses of BNT162b2 elicited higher levels of PRNT50 antibody to Omicron variant suggesting longer duration of protection. Convalescent from SARS-CoV-2 infection did not have protective PRNT50 antibody levels to Omicron, but a single dose of BNT162b2 vaccine provided protective immunity. Field vaccine-efficacy studies against Omicron variant against different vaccines are urgently needed.
Artificial Intelligence for the Prediction of Acute Kidney Injury During the Perioperative Period: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Diagnostic Test Accuracy
Authors: zhang hanfei , Wang Amanda Y , Wu Shukun , Ngo Johnathan , Feng Yunlin , He Xin , Zhang Yingfeng , Wu Xingwei , Hong Daqing
Published: January 2022

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is independently associated with morbidity and mortality in a wide range of surgical settings. Nowadays, with the increasing use of electronic health records (EHR), advances in patient information retrieval, and cost reduction in clinical informatics, artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to improve early recognition and management for perioperative AKI. However, there is no quantitative synthesis of the performance of these methods.Objective: To estimate the sensitivity and specificity of artificial intelligence for the prediction of acute kidney injury during the perioperative period.Methods: Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched to 2nd October 2021. Studies presenting diagnostic performance of artificial intelligence in the early detection of perioperative acute kidney injury were included. Two independent evaluators extracted data. The risk of bias of eligible studies was assessed using the PROBAST tool.Results: Nineteen studies involving 304,076 patients were included. Quantitative random-effects meta-analysis using the Rutter and Gatsonis hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristics (HSROC) model revealed pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.73 to 0.81),0.75 (95% CI: 0.71 to 0.80), and 10.7 (95% CI 8.5 to 13.5), respectively. Threshold effect was found to be the only source of heterogeneity, and there was no evidence of publication bias.Conclusions: Our review demonstrates the promising performance of artificial intelligence for early prediction of perioperative AKI. Further studies should focus on the improvement of existing models, novel biomarkers, and clinical effectiveness.
Measurement And Simulation Calculation of Wire Bow Angle During The Diamond Wire Saw Process
Authors: Xu Zhiteng , Huang Hui , Cui Changcai
Published: January 2022

The wire bow angle is an important factor that affects the shape precision of an ingot after the diamond wire sawing process. In this research, the wire bow angles of the inside and outside of an ingot were recorded with a high-speed camera. The effects of the processing parameters such as the wire tension force, feed speed, and wire speed on the wire bow angles inside and outside the ingot were analyzed. A numerical simulation model of the wire bow in the wire sawing process is presented in this paper to describe the wire bow angle inside the ingot. It was shown that the wire bow angle inside the ingot was smaller than that of outside the ingot for all of the processing parameters. The wire bow angles improved with the increase of the feed speed and decrease of the wire speed and the wire tension force. The results of the wire bow angle measurement of the inside ingot and the simulation calculation were similar for the process parameters.