bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiological Profile and Infection Potential of Different Cryopreserved Skull Flaps After Decompressive Hemicraniectomy. Is Cryopreservation at -80°C Better?
Authors: Agrawal Rachit , Rompf Csilla , Pranada AB , Vollmar P , De Lorenzo A , Hoyer A , Gousias K
Published: March 2022

Objective:Patterns of cryopreservation of explanted skull bone flaps have long been a matter of debate, in particular the appropriate temperature of storage. To the best of our knowledge no study to date has compared the microbiological profile and the infection potential of skull bone flaps cryostored at the same institution at disparate degrees for neurosurgical purposes. In the context of our clinical trial DRKS00023283, we performed a bacterial culture of explanted skull bone flaps, which were cryoasserved lege artis at a temperature of either -23°C or -80°C after a decompressive hemicraniectomy. In a further step, we contaminated the bone fragments in a suspension with specific pathogens (S.aureus, S.epidermidis and C.acnes, CFU 103/ml) over 24 hours and conducted a second culture.Results: A total of 17 cryopreserved skull flaps (8: -23°C; 9: -80°C) explanted during decompressive hemicraniectomies performed between 2019 and 2020 as well as 2 computer-aided-designed skulls (1 vancomycin-soaked) were analyzed. Median duration of cryopreservation was 10.5 months (2 to 17 months). No microorganisms were detected at the normal bacterial culture. After active contamination of our skull flaps, all samples showed similar bacterial growth of above-mentioned pathogens; thus, our study did not reveal an influence of the storage temperature upon infectious dynamic of the skulls.
Geographic inequalities in pediatric emergency department visits in Ontario and Alberta: a multilevel analysis of 2.5 million visits
Authors: Wilk Piotr , Maltby Alana , Lau Tammy , Gunz Anna C , Osornio-Vargas Alvaro , Yamamoto Shelby S , Ali Shehzad , Lavigne Éric
Published: March 2022

Background: Research on intra- and inter-regional variations in emergency department (ED) visits among children can provide a better understanding of the patterns of ED utilization and further insight into how contextual features of the urban environment may be associated with these health events. To assess intra-urban and inter-urban variation in pediatric emergency department (PED) visits in census metropolitan areas (CMAs) in Ontario and Alberta, Canada and explore if contextual factors related to material and social deprivation, proximity to healthcare facilities, and supply to family physicians explain this variation.Methods: A retrospective, population-based analysis of data on PED visits recorded between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2017 was conducted. Random intercept multilevel regression models were constructed to quantify the intra- (between forward sortation areas [FSAs]) and inter- (between CMAs) variations in the rates of PED visits.Results: In total, 2,537,442 PED visits were included in the study. The overall crude FSA-level rate of PED visits was 415.38 per 1,000 children population. Across both provinces’ CMAs, the crude rate of PED visits was highest in Thunder Bay, Ontario (771.65) and lowest in Windsor, Ontario (237.19). There was evidence of statistically significant and substantial intra- and inter-urban variation in the rates of PED visits. More socially deprived FSAs, FSAs with lower proximity to healthcare facilities, and CMAs with a higher rate of family physicians per 1,000 children population had higher rates of PED visits.Conclusions: The variation in rates of PED visits across CMAs and FSAs cannot fully be accounted for by age and sex distributions, material and social deprivation, proximity to healthcare facilities, or supply of family physicians. There is a need to explore additional contextual factors to better understand why some metropolitan areas have higher rates of PED visits.
Are Temperament and Personality Redundant? A Longitudinal Comparison of Predictions With Childhood and Adulthood Personality
Authors: Wright Amanda J. , Jackson Joshua J.
Published: March 2022

Debate has long surrounded whether temperament and personality are distinct sets of individual differences or are rather two sides of the same coin. To the extent that there are differences, it could indicate important developmental insights concerning the mechanisms responsible for linking traits with outcomes. One way to test this is to examine the joint and incremental predictive validity of temperament and personality in the same individuals across time. Using a longitudinal sample spanning three decades starting infancy and followed up to 37 years old (N = 7,081), we ran a series of Bayesian generalized linear models with measures of childhood temperament and adult-based personality to predict outcomes in several life domains. Results indicated that while each set of individual differences were often related to the same outcomes, there were instances in which temperament provided incremental validity above adult personality, ranging from 2%-10% additional variance explained. Temperament explained the most variance for outcomes such as cognitive ability and educational attainment whereas personality performed best for outcomes such as health status, substance use, and most internalizing outcomes. These findings indicate temperament and personality assessments are not redundant and that a lifespan approach is needed to understand fully understand life outcomes.
Distributed coordinated attitude tracking control of spacecraft formation with dynamic leader under communication delays
Authors: Zhou Zhanjie , Zhang Zhihao , Wang Yan
Published: March 2022

This paper is dedicated to the challenging issue of the cooperative attitude tracking control of spacecraft formations under communication delays. A state estimator using the attitude information of the neighbors is designed for each follower spacecraft to estimate the time-varying attitude information of the leader spacecraft in the case that the leader spacecraft cannot directly communicate with all following spacecraft. By constructing auxiliary variables based on estimated values and proposing a fixed-time control law to ensure that the auxiliary variables of the spacecraft can reach zero in fixed time, which is independent of the initial state, the effects of time-varying reference attitudes on the system can be reduced. The attitude error and the estimation error are proven to converge to the region containing the origin by input-to-state stability theory combined with the Lyapunov-Krasovskii approach. To further illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm, numerical simulation results are presented.
Prognostic Value of Myopic Disc Deformation in Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization: A 6-year Follow-up Study
Authors: Han Ye Eun , Kim Yoon Jeon , Yang Hyun Seung , Moon Byung Gil , Lee Joo Yong , Kim June-Gone , Yoon Young Hee
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical characteristics of myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) with myopic disc deformations and explore whether myopic disc features are associated with the prognosis of mCNV. Methods: Patients with subfoveal mCNV who received anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and followed for > 3 years were included. Myopic disc deformations were quantified as the tilt ratio (the longest/shortest disc diameter), area of the ß-zone peripapillary atrophy (PPA), and ß-PPA/disc area ratio (PDR). We compared the clinical characteristics in terms of myopic disc features and identified the prognostic factors using Cox regression analysis. Results: Among a total of 80 eyes (50 with disc tilt), 29 (36.3%) eyes developed macular atrophy during 80.7 ± 34.8 months. Patients with disc tilt required more frequent anti-VEGF (P=0.044) and had worse final visual acuity (VA) (P=0.011) and a higher incidence of macular atrophy (P=0.015). Larger PDR, which had a strong correlation with large tilt ratio (P=0.006), showed significant correlations with longer axial length (P=0.006), worse VA (P=0.012), and thinner subfoveal choroidal thickness (P=0.015). Large PDR was a risk factor for macular atrophy (HR=2.257, P<0.001) and poor visual outcome (HR=1.407, P=0.015)Conclusion: Subfoveal mCNV with myopic disc deformations had worse functional and structural outcomes.
Glacier Fluctuations in the Northern Patagonian Andes (44°S) Imply Wind-Modulated Interhemispheric in Phase Paleoclimates During Termination 1
Authors: Soteres Rodrigo L , Sagredo Esteban A , Kaplan Michael R , Martini Mateo A , Moreno Patricio I , Reynhout Scott A , Schwartz Roseanne , Schaefer Joerg M
Published: March 2022

The Last Glacial Termination (T1) featured major changes in global circulation systems that led to a shift from glacial to interglacial climate. While polar ice cores attest to an antiphased thermal pattern at millennial timescales, recent well-dated moraine records from both hemispheres suggest in-phase fluctuations in glaciers through T1, which is inconsistent with the bipolar see-saw paradigm. Here, we present a glacier chronology based on 30 new 10Be surface exposure ages from well-preserved moraines in the Lago Palena/General Vintter basin in northern Patagonia (~44°S). We find that local glacier lobe underwent profound retreat after 19.7±0.7 ka. This recessional trend led to the individualization of the Cerro Riñón glacier by ~16.3 ka, which readvanced at 15.9±0.7 ka during Heinrich Stadial 1; during the Antarctic Cold Reversal with successive maxima at 13.5±0.6, 13.1±0.5, and 13.1±0.5 ka; and a minor culmination at 12.5±0.4 ka during Younger Dryas time. We conclude that fluctuations of Patagonian glaciers during T1 were controlled primarily by climate anomalies brought by shifts on the Southern Westerly Winds (SWW) locus. We posit that the global covariation of mountain glaciers during T1 was linked to variations in atmospheric CO2 promoted by the interplay of the SWW-Southern Ocean system at millennial timescales.
Living beyond Placenta Accreta Spectrum: Mother’s and Father’s Experience of the Postnatal Journey and Recommendations for an Integrated Care Pathway
Authors: Bartels Helena C , Horsch Antje , Cooney Naomi , Brennan Donal J , Lalor Joan G
Published: March 2022

Background
Placenta Accreta Spectrum is associated with significant clinical maternal morbidity and mortality, which has been extensively described in the literature. However, there is a dearth of research on the lived experiences of couples. The aim of this study is to describe living beyond a pregnancy and birth complicated by PAS for up to four years postpartum. Couples’ experiences of PAS inform the development of an integrated care pathway of family centered support interventions.
Methods
An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach was applied to collect data through virtual interviews over a 3-month period from February to April 2021. Twenty-nine participants shared their stories; 6 couples were interviewed together (n = 12 participants), 6 couples were interviewed separately (n = 12 participants), and 5 women were interviewed without their partner. Couples were eligible for inclusion if they had a diagnosis of PAS within the previous 5 years. This paper focuses on the postnatal period, with data from the antenatal and intrapartum periods described separately.
Results
One superordinate theme “Living beyond PAS” emerged from interviews, with 6 subordinate themes as follows; “Living with a different body”, “The impact on relationships”, “Coping strategies”, “Post-traumatic growth”, “Challenges with normal care” and recommendations for “What needs to change”. These themes informed the development of an integrated care pathway for couples to support them from diagnosis up to one year following the birth.
Conclusion
Couples described the challenges of the postnatal period in terms of the physical and emotional impact, and how some were able to make positive life changes in the aftermath of a traumatic event. An integrated care pathway of simple supportive interventions, based on participant recommendations, delivered as part of specialist multidisciplinary team care may assist couples in alleviating some of these challenges.
Salivary Cell-Free HSD17B1 and HSPA1A Transcripts as Potential Biomarkers for Estrus Identification in Buffaloes (Bubalus Bubalis)
Authors: Singha Shubham , Baithalu Rubina K. , Pandey Mamta , Jaiswal Latika , Dash Sangram , Fernandes Abhijeet , Mohanty Tushar K. , Kumaresan A. , Maharana Biswa Ranjan , Sarath T.
Published: March 2022

Background: Estrus detection is a major problem in buffaloes because of the poor expression of estrus signs leading to low reproductive efficiency. Salivary transcripts analysis is a promising tool to identify biomarker; therefore, the present study was carried out to evaluate their potential as estrus biomarker. Methods: The levels of HSD17B1, INHBA, HSPA1A, Testin transcripts were compared in saliva during estrous cycle stages [early proestrus (day -2, EP), late proestrus (day-1, LP), estrus (E), metestrus (ME) and diestrus (DE)] of cyclic heifers (n=8) and pluriparoous (n=8) buffaloes by employing quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results: The levels of HSD17B1 (EP/DE 1.46-2.43 fold, LP/DE 2.49-3.06 fold; E/DE 7.21-11.9-fold P<0.01; ME/D 1.0-1.16 fold) and HSPA1A (EP/DE 0.93-2.39 fold, LP/DE 2.68-3.23 fold; E/DE 8.52-15.18 fold P<0.01; ME/D 0.86-1.01 fold) were significantly altered during the estrus than other estrous cycle stages in both cyclic heifers and pluriparous buffaloes. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed ability of salivary HSD17B1 (AUC 0.96; P<0.001) and HSPA1A (AUC 0.99; P<0.01) to differentiate E from other stages of estrous cycle. Conclusion: Significantly higher levels of HSD17B1 and HSPA1A transcripts in saliva during estrus phase suggest their biomarkers potential for estrus detection in buffaloes.
Theoretical study of the chiral separation process of atenolol and carvedilol β-blocker drugs
Authors: Maia Pollyanna P , Nascimento Camila A , Silva Camilla F , Nascimento Clebio Soares
Published: March 2022

In the present work, we perform a theoretical study to understand the chiral recognition process of polysaccharide-derived stationary phases with two β-blocker drugs: atenolol and carvedilol. According to the main results, the structural and thermodynamic parameters obtained by DFT calculations pointed out the chiral discrimination, as well as the enantiomeric elution order of both β-blockers, thus explaining at the molecular level the HPLC experimental data previously obtained. Finally, the relative stability of distinct diastereoisomeric complexes was explained by the hydrogen bonds and π-π stacking interactions formed between β-blockers enantiomers and their respective chiral selectors.
Anesthesia personnel’s visual attention regarding patient monitoring in simulated routine and critical incidents. An eye-tracking study.
Authors: Roche Tadzio R. , Maas Elise J. , Said Sadiq , Braun Julia , Machado Carl , Spahn Donat R. , Noethiger Christoph B. , Tscholl David W.
Published: March 2022

Background: Cognitive ergonomics design of patient monitoring may reduce human factor errors in high-stress environments. Eye-tracking is a suitable tool to gain insight into the visual interaction of healthcare professionals with patient monitors, which may facilitate their further development.Methods: This prospective, randomized, high-fidelity simulation study compared anesthesia personnel's visual attention (fixation count and dwell time) to 15 areas of interest on the patient monitor during critical and non-critical anesthesia scenarios. Furthermore, we examined the extent to which participants' experience influenced visual attention and which vital signs displayed on the patient monitor received the most visual attention. We used mixed zero-inflated Poisson regression and mixed linear models to analyze the results.Results: Analyzing 23 ten-minute scenarios, we found significantly more fixations to the areas of interest on the patient monitor during critical situations (rate ratio of 1.45; 95% CI 1.33 to 1.59; p < 0.001). However, the dwell-time on the areas of interest did not significantly differ between the critical and non-critical scenarios (coefficient of –1.667; 95% CI –4.549 to 1.229; p = 0.27). The professional experience did not significantly influence the visual attention (fixation: rate ratio of 0.88; 95% CI 0.54 to 1.43; p = 0.61 and dwell-time: coefficient of 0.889; 95% CI –1.465 to 3.229; p = 0.27). Regarding vital signs, anesthesia personnel paid the most attention to blood pressure (fixation: mean [SD] of 108 [74.83]; dwell-time: mean [SD] of 27 [15.90] seconds), end-expiratory carbon dioxide (fixation: mean [SD] of 59 [47.39]; dwell-time: mean [SD] of 30 [21.51] seconds), and the electrocardiogram (fixation: mean [SD] of 58 [64.70]; dwell-time: mean [SD] of 15 [14.95] seconds).Conclusions: Critical anesthesia situations increased anesthesia personnel’s visual interaction with the patient monitor. Furthermore, we found that their visual attention focused mainly on a few vital signs. To assist clinicians in critical situations, manufacturers should optimize monitors to convey necessary information as easily and quickly as possible and optimize the visibility of less frequently observed but equally critical vital signs, especially when they are in an abnormal range.
Design and validation of a Theory-Based Physical Activity Assessment Questionnaire for the Pregnant Women (PA2Q-PW)
Authors: Kianfard Leila , Niknami Shamsaddin , Shokravi Farkhonde Amin , Rakhshanderou Sakineh
Published: March 2022

Background: There is evidence that physical activity plays an essential role in preventing illnesses during pregnancy. This study aimed to design and validation a theory-based physical activity assessment questionnaire for pregnant women (PA2Q-PW). Methods: In this exploratory psychometric study, a physical activity assessment questionnaire for Pregnant Women (PA2Q-PW) was designed. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to develop the initial items of PA2Q-PW. The findings from interviews were merged with the literature review. The face, construct, and content validity of PA2Q-PW was assessed by the participation of pregnant women, midwives, and health educationists. Impact Score (IS), Content Validity Index (CVI), and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and of the items were calculated. Construct validity of PA2Q-PW was calculated through factor analysis. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), Cronbach’s alpha, standard error of measurement (SEM), and composite reliability were calculated to assess the reliability of the findings by PA2Q-PW.Results: The highest score was seen in the Knowledge subscale of PA2Q-PW, and the value of Cronbach's alpha for the subscales was from 0.89 to 0.97, and the value of ICC was from 0.76 to 0.89. The correlation (CVI & CVR indices) between the experts was satisfactory in all items of PA2Q-PW. The minimum loading factor for varimax rotation in the knowledge subscale was 0.41, in attitude was 0.56, in nurtures was 0.38, and in enabling factor was 0.27. The fitness of the proposed model among those constructs was confirmed by Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) <0.08, Normed chi-square (x 2/ df) < 5.0, Comparative Fit Index (CFI) ≥ 0.90, Tucker- Lewis Index (TLI) ≥ 0.9.Conclusion: PA2Q-PW is the first standard tool based on the PEN-3 cultural model that researchers can utilize to gather data and conduct the desired education interventions to change physical activity behavior in pregnant women during pregnancy. Trial ID: ISRCTN13356179
Hydrological modelling to assess the impacts of socio-economic development and climate change on water resources in Cauvery Basin, India
Authors: Gupta Bhawana , Horan Robyn , Rowan John , Allan Andrew
Published: March 2022

In order to address the sustainability challenges emerging from interdependencies in water, energy, food nexus, in recent years ecosystem services have been identified as an important link in the nexus. Ecosystem services are essential for environmental sustainability and for provision of natural resources in WEF sectors and its degradation due to climate change and socio-economic development impacts resource security in all sectors creating a feedback loop of exploitation. This study highlights the need to integrate freshwater ecosystem health in planning development strategies as sustainable freshwater ecosystem is vital for climate change resilient future. Integrated hydrological models have been widely used to identify scenarios with optimal economic benefits in agriculture, energy and urban sectors from a water development project, in this research we have used GWAVA model to assess the impacts of changes in water use efficiency, land use change, population growth and climate change on water resources and ecologically relevant hydrological regime indicators at a basin scale. The analysis of model stimulated stream flows was used to compare the sensitivity of water resource availability induced by natural or anthropogenic changes at a sub-catchment scale. The results suggest significant uncertainties in availability and use of river water resources in the mid-century, however, aligned with the global and national climate change commitments, results shows that demand side management of water and sustainable land use management can mitigate immediate consequences of climate change on river health.
Parallel Exploratory And Confirmatory Factor Analysis Of The Hungarian Fear Of Covid-19 Scale In A Large General Population Sample: A Psychometric And Dimensionality Evaluation
Authors: Balázs Péter György , Ariel Mitev , Brodszky Valentin
Published: March 2022

Background: The seven-item Fear of Covid-19 Scale (FCV-19S) is the most frequently applied instruments for assessing fear of COVID-19 infection. Our objectives were to develop a Hungarian version of FCV-19S, to evaluate its psychometric properties and dimensionality.Methods: In May 2021, a sample of adults representative of the Hungarian general population completed an online questionnaire survey with respect of the COVID-19 pandemic. Outcome measures included FCV-19S, General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) questionnaire and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) depressive severity score. Item characteristics, validity and internal consistency reliability of FCV-19S were determined. Maximum likelihood method EFA was used to measure item-factor relationships (h²; factor loading; eigenvalues), while goodness-of-fit of the FCV-19 was evaluated by comparison of one and two-factor CFA model fits (RMSEA, SRMR, χ²/df, CFI, NFI, RFI, IFI, TLI). Correlations explored the relationships between fear, anxiety and depression and FCV-19 scores were compared in vaccinated and non-vaccinated subgroups.Results: Overall, n=2000 responded the online questionnaire. The mean age was 49.1, majority being females (62.2%). EFA identified a maximum of two factors (eig=4.2 and 1.01). Items 3,4,6,7 strongly correlated with Factor 1 (physiological fear) and items 1,2,5 linked to Factor 2 (emotional fear). FCV-19 items showed good internal consistency (Cronbach α=0.88) and correlated moderately or highly, while showing weak to moderate correlation with PHQ-9 (r=0.364) and GAD-7 (r=0.424). Significant differences were observed between vaccinated (14.2) and non-vaccinated (13.1) FCV-19 mean scores.Conclusions: The Hungarian version of the FCV-19 Scale seems valid and reliable construct to measure fear associated with COVID-19. Both uni- and bi-dimensional CFA is feasible, though the two-factor structure faces some limitations.
Estimation of Model Accuracy By A Unique Set of Features And Tree-Based Regressor
Authors: Bitton Mor , Keasar Chen
Published: March 2022

Computationally generated models of protein structures bridge the gap between the practically negligible price tag of sequencing and the high cost of experimental structure determination. By providing a low-cost (often free) partial alternative to experimentally determined structures, these models help biologists design and interpret their experiments. Obviously, the more accurate the models the more useful they are. However, methods for protein structure prediction generate many structural models (called decoys) of various qualities, necessitating means for the estimation of their accuracy. Here we present MESHI_consensus, a new method for the estimation of model accuracy. The method uses a tree based regressor and a set of structural, target-based, and consensus-based features. The new method achieved high performance in the EMA (Estimation of Model Accuracy) track of the recent CASP14 community-wide experiment (https://predictioncenter.org/casp14/index.cgi). The tertiary structure prediction track of that experiment revealed an unprecedented leap in prediction performance by a single prediction group/method, namely AlphaFold2. This achievement would inevitably have a profound impact on the field of protein structure prediction, including the accuracy estimation sub-task. We conclude this manuscript with some speculations regarding the future role of accuracy estimation in a new era of accurate protein structure prediction
The Genome of Rice Planthopper Egg Parasitoid Wasps Anagrus Nilaparvatae (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) Casts Light on the Chemo- and Mechano-Sensing in Parasitism
Authors: Ma Ying , Guo Zixiao , Wang Liyang , Wang Bingyang , Huang Tingfa , Tang Bingjie , Zhang Guren , Zhou Qiang
Published: March 2022

Background
Mymaridae is an ancient insect group, which is a basal lineage in the Chalcidoidea phylogeny. The species of Mymaridae have great potential for biological control. Anagrus nilaparvatae, a representative specie of Mymaridae, is ideal for controlling rice planthopper due to its high rate of parasitism by finding hosts efficiently from paddy ridges to fields.
Results
Using both single-molecule real-time and Illumina sequencing, we sequenced and assembled the whole genome of A. nilaparvatae, which is the first genome sequenced in family Mymaridae. The assembly consists of 394 scaffolds accumulated to 488.8Mb. The assembly is of high continuity and completeness, indicated by the N50 value of 25,368,259bp and 98.4% mapping rate of BUSCO orthologs. 16894 protein-coding genes in the genome were annotated. The phylogenomic tree constructed for A. nilaparvatae and other 12 species of Hymenoptera confirmed that family Mymaridae is basal in the Chalcidoidea superfamily and sister to all the remaining Chalcidoidea species. The divergence between A. nilaparvatae and the other seven Chalcidoidea species was dated at ~ 126.9 Mya. Chemoreceptor and mechanoreceptor genes are important in the parasitic behavior. We identified 17 OBPs, 11 CSPs, 4 NPC2s, 88 ORs, 7 GRs, 22 IRs and 13 SNMPs in the genome of A. nilaparvatae, which are associated with the chemosensory function. Strikingly, there are only 1 PPK and 3 TRP genes in the genome that are relevant to the mechanosensory function.
Conclusions
The small numbers of chemo- and mechano-sensory genes in A. nilaparvatae indicate the species-specific host detection and oviposition behavior of A. nilaparvatae might be regulated by relatively simple molecular pathways.
Social skills in neurodevelopmental disorders: a study using role-plays to assess adolescents and young adults with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Feller Clémence Mathilde , Ilen Laura , Eliez Stephan , Schneider Maude
Published: March 2022

Backgrounds: Social skills are frequently impaired in neurodevelopmental disorders, including 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Although often assessed with questionnaires, direct assessment provides a more valid estimate of the constructs. Role-plays (i.e., simulates situational settings) therefore appear to be an appropriate indicator of social skills in daily life, as they allow for systematic and direct observations of behaviors. Methods: 53 individuals with 22q11DS, 34 individuals with ASD, and 64 typically developing (TD) peers aged 12-30 years were assessed with role-plays as well as hetero-reported questionnaires and clinical interviews on social skills, functioning and anxiety. Results: Both clinical groups showed impaired social skills compared to TD, but distinct social profiles emerged between the groups. Individuals with ASD exhibited high social inadequacy, whereas individuals with 22q11DS were characterized by a lack of assertiveness. No association was found between social skills measured by direct observation and caregiver reports. Social anxiety, although greater in clinical groups than in TD, was not associated with social skills. Conclusions: This study highlights the need to train social skills through tailored interventions to target the specific difficulties of each clinical population. It also highlights the importance of combining measures as they do not necessarily provide the same outcome.
Efficacy of ultrasound endoscopy with artificial intelligence for the differential diagnosis of non-gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Authors: Ihara Eikichi , Minoda Yosuke , Fujimori Nao , Nagatomo Shuzaburo , Esaki Mitsuru , Hata Yoshitaka , Bai Xiaopeng , Tanaka Yoshimasa , Ogino Haruei , Chinen Takatoshi , Hu Qingjiang , Oki Eiji , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: March 2022

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are common subepithelial lesions (SELs) and require treatment considering their malignant potential. We recently developed an endoscopic ultrasound-based artificial intelligence (EUS-AI) system to differentiate GISTs from non-GISTs in gastric SELs, which were used to train the system. We assessed whether the EUS-AI system designed for diagnosing gastric GISTs could be applied to non-gastric GISTs. Between January 2015 and January 2021, 52 patients with non-gastric SELs (esophagus, n = 15; duodenum, n = 26; colon, n = 11) were enrolled. The ability of EUS-AI to differentiate GISTs from non-GISTs in non-gastric SELs was examined. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of EUS-AI for discriminating GISTs from non-GISTs in non-gastric SELs were 94.4%, 100%, and 86.1%, respectively, with an area under the curve of 0.98 based on the cutoff value set using the Youden index. In the subanalysis, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of EUS-AI were highest in the esophagus (100%, 100%, 100%; duodenum, 96.2%, 100%, 0%; colon, 90.9%, 100%, 0%); the cutoff values were determined using the Youden index or the value determined using stomach cases. The diagnostic accuracy of EUS-AI increased as lesion size increased, regardless of lesion location. EUS-AI based on gastric SELs had good diagnostic ability for non-gastric GISTs.
The effect of the central administration of the Neuropeptide VF on feed intake and its possible interactions with glutamate and opioid systems in broiler chicken
Authors: Hamidi Behnam , Zendehdel Morteza , Vazir Bita , Asghari Ahmad
Published: March 2022

Arginine-phenylalanine-amide (RFamide)-related peptides (RFRP) known as neuropeptide VF (NPVF) have a crucial role in feeding regulation. The present study purposed to determine the effect of intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of the NPVF on dietary intake and possible interactions of NPVF with glutamate and opioid systems in broiler chicken. In experiment 1, chickens received ICV administration of the control solution, NPVF (16 nmol), 15 nmol of MK-801 (NMDA glutamate receptors antagonist), and injection of the NPVF with MK-801 together. In experiments, 2-8 chicken injected intracerebroventricularly with 390 nmol of CNQX (antagonist of AMPA glutamate receptors), 2 nmol of AIDA (an antagonist of mGLUR1 glutamate receptors), 150 nmol of LY341495 (an antagonist of mGLUR2 glutamate receptors), 2 nmol of UBP1112 (an antagonist for mGLUR3 glutamate receptors), 5 µg of β-FNA (an antagonist for mu (µ) receptors), 5 µg of NTI (an antagonist for delta (δ) receptors), nor-BNI (kappa (κ) receptors antagonist; 5 µg) instead of MK-801. Following the injection, at 30, 60, and 120 min, the chick's dietary intake was recorded. As a result, NPVF (16 nmol) reduced feed intake in broilers (P<0.05). NPVF + MK-801 co-injection reduced the hypophagic action of the NPVF (P<0.05). Injection of NPVF + CNQX together reduced the anorectic action of NPVF (P<0.05). Co-injection of NPVF + β-FNA reduced effects of NPVF injection (P<0.05). Thus, in newborn broilers, NPVF-induced anorexia is probably mediated by NMDA/ AMPA glutamate and µ opioid receptors.
Comparison of in vivo hindfoot joint motion changes during stance phase between normal foot and stage II adult acquired flatfoot
Authors: Deng Zhenhan , Cai Zijun , Chen Siyu , Liu Yan , Chen Fanglin , Deng Zhiqin , Li Yusheng , Xu Jian
Published: March 2022

Background: To compare the kinematic characteristics of hindfoot joints in stage Ⅱ adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) with those of normal foot through the 3D-to-2D registration technology and single fluoroscopic imaging system.Methods: CT scans were performed on the bilateral feet of 7 normal volunteers and 8 volunteers with stage Ⅱ AAFD in neutral positions. Their lateral dynamic X-ray data during the stance phase, including 14 normal feet and 10 flatfeet, was collected. A computer-aided simulated light source for 3D CT model was applied to obtain the virtual images, which were matched with the dynamic X-ray images to register in the “Fluo” software, so that the spatial changes during the stance phase could be calculated.Results: During the early-stance phase, the calcaneous was more dorsiflexed, everted, and externally-rotated relative to the talus in flatfoot compared with that in normal foot, and the difference is statistically significant (p<0.05). During the mid-stance phase, the calcaneous was more dorsiflexed and everted relative to the talus in flatfoot compared with that in normal foot, and the difference is statistically significant (p<0.05); however, the rotation did not differ significantly between the two groups (p>0.05). During the late-stance phase, the calcaneous was more plantarflexed, but less inverted and internally-rotated, relative to the talus in flatfoot compared with that in normal foot, and the difference is statistically significant (p<0.05). During the early- and mid-stance phase, the navicular was more dorsiflexed, everted, and externally-rotated relative to the talus in flatfoot compared with that in normal foot, and the difference is statistically significant (p<0.05). During the late-stance phase, the navicular was more plantarflexed, but less inverted and internally-rotated, relative to the talus in flatfoot compared with that in normal foot, and the difference is statistically significant (p<0.05). There was no difference in the motion of cuboid between the two groups during the whole stance phase (p>0.05).Conclusions: During the early- and mid-stance phase, excessive motion was observed in the subtalar and talonavicular joints in stage Ⅱ AAFD. During the late-stance phase, the motion of subtalar and talonavicular joints appeared to be in the decompensated state. During the whole stance phase, the motion of calcaneocuboid joint showed no significant difference between normal foot and stage Ⅱ AAFD.
Genetic Predisposition to Allergic Rhinitis May Be a Causal Risk Factor for Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Liao Wenjing , Song Lijuan , Xie Junyang , Chen Gui , Liang Tianhao , Li Ang , Zhang Chunyi , Xu Meiqian , Li Hao , Xie Jianlei , Yang Pingchang , Han Deming , Zhong Nanshan , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: March 2022

There is increasing evidence suggest a link between allergic rhinitis (AR) and psychiatric disorders. However, casual associations between these variables remain uncertain. We performed bi-directional two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) to examine the causality association of AR with 11 different psychiatric disorders or relevant traits. MR was conducted using the inverse-variance weighted method (IVW), MR-Egger and weighted median methods. Sensitivity analyses included the MR-Egger regression and MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier test. AR from 2 different GWAS data was positively associated with bipolar disorder (OR=1.649, 95% CI: 1.077-2.526; P=0.021; OR=1.599; 95%CI 1.058-2.417; P=0.026) and major depressive disorder (OR=1.539; 95%CI 1.007-2.353; P=0.047), but not other psychiatric illnesses. Bidirectional analyses showed that bipolar disorder is negatively associated with AR (OR=0.964; 95%CI: 0.936-0.993; P=0.015). There was no evidence for potential causal schizophrenia and effects of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder on risk of AR by MR method, but MR pleiotropy residual outlier test suggested that attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is negatively associated with AR after outlier correction (OR=0.976, 95%CI: 0.958-0.995, P=0.012). This MR study indicated that AR was a causal risk factor for bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, but not for other psychiatric disorders. Bipolar disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder may be a protective factor for AR. Further studies could be carried out to unravel the underlying mechanism in AR and psychiatric disorders.
Tranilast-Tyrosine Hybrid Molecule Exhibits Dual Activity: Suppression of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Induction of Cytotoxicity in Cancer Cells
Authors: Toma Tsugumasa , Yamashita Junpei , Kamo Masahiro , Koga Ryoko , Okamoto Yoshinari , Tateishi Hiroshi , Otsuka Masami , FUJITA MIKAKO
Published: March 2022

The anti-allergic drug tranilast (TNL) reportedly exhibits inhibitory activity against epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) at high concentrations. Herein, we synthesized a new hybrid molecule, tranilast-tyrosine (TNL-T), which is expected to increase anti-EMT activity by enhancing intracellular delivery through an amino acid transporter expressed in cancer cells. The anti-EMT activity of TNL-T was similar to that of TNL in the lung carcinoma cell line A549. Unlike TNL, TNL-T could induce dose-dependent cytotoxicity in A549 cells; this cytotoxicity was also observed in the glioblastoma cell lines U251 and U87. However, neither tyrosine nor TNL exhibited cytotoxicity, demonstrating the importance of the TNL-T structure. TNL-T, which exhibited dual activity by suppressing EMT and cancer cell proliferation, could aid in the development of new anticancer drugs.
Comparative Study of Phytochemical Profiles and Morphological Properties of Some Damask Rose From Iran
Authors: Omidi Mohammad , Khandan-Mirkohi Azizollah , Kafi Mohsen , Zamani Zabihollah , Rasouli Omid , Shaghaghi Arezoo , Kiani Mahnaz
Published: March 2022

Background: Rosa damascena is an aromatic rose species, is cultivated for its essential oil, and has wide application in perfume, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries in the world. This experiment was conducted to evaluate essential oil and morphological variations of 26 Damask rose genotypes. For this purpose, the effect of harvest time i.e. early morning or evening, and sampling type i.e. fresh or dried petals was evaluated on oil content. In addition, the composition of essential oil of the genotypes was determined using Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS).Results: Results showed that early morning was the preferable time for flower collection based on oil content quantification. Furthermore, the oil yield of fresh petals was higher than the dried petals. Twenty-five volatile compounds were found in the extracted oils. β-damascenone, a key marker for the quality of rose oil, was found in 22 genotypes and was more than 1.5% concentration in G3, G6, and G11 genotypes. The highest components of the oil in Damask rose genotypes were nonadecane (42.51%), β-citronellol (40.82%), n-heneicosane (34.69%), geraniol (27.76%), and n-tricosane (14.2%). A wide variation in ﬂower characteristics, such as petal color (from white to nearly red) and petal numbers from about 25 to 95, were also recorded. The G2, G5, and G15 genotypes originated from Isfahan, Fars, and Kerman respectively were selected based on petal number, flower weight, and essential oil content in fresh and dried petals.Conclusions: Results suggest that the morphological and biochemical diversity of Damask rose genotypes can be used effectively to characterize genetic diversity between different genotypes and to select special traits in the breeding program
Socio-demographic correlates of unhealthy lifestyle in Ethiopia: a secondary analysis of a national survey
Authors: Gelaw Yalemzewod Assefa , Koye Digsu N. , Alene Kefyalew Addis , Ahmed Kedir Yimam , Assefa Yibeltal , Erku Daniel Asfaw , Tegegn Henok Getachew , Tesema Azeb Gebresilassie , Zeleke Berihun Megabiaw , Melaku Yohannes Adama
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to assess socio-demographic correlates of unhealthy lifestyles among adolescents and adults in Ethiopia. A population-based national cross-sectional survey using the WHO NCD STEPS instruments was conducted. Data were collected in 2015, from a total of 9,800 participants aged between 15 and 69 years. Unhealthy lifestyle scores (0 [most healthy] to 5 [most unhealthy]) were determined based on diet (daily fruit and vegetable consumption), smoking status, overweight/obesity, alcohol intake, and physical activity. A co-occurrence of 3 or more unhealthy lifestyles was considered as an unhealthy lifestyle. The study found that 98.2% of participants had low consumptions of fruit and vegetables, 5.4% smoked tobacco, 15.0% consumed excessive alcohol, 66.0% had inadequate physical activity and 2.3% were obese. One in eight (13%) participants were having three or more unhealthy lifestyles. We found that male sex, urban residence, older age, being married or living in common-law, and higher income were associated with unhealthy lifestyles. Participants with higher educational status had lower odds of unhealthy lifestyles. Socio-demographic characteristics such as sex, age, marital status, residence, income, and educational status were correlated with individuals’ lifestyles. Tailored interventions that target specific socio-demographic groups are required to address the increasing burden of unhealthy lifestyles in Ethiopia.
Rational sampling numbers of soil pH for spatial variation: A case study from Yellow River Delta
Authors: Zhang Yingxin , Duan Mengqi , Zhang Xiaoguang
Published: March 2022

Spatial variation of soil pH is important for the evaluation of environmental quality. A reasonable number of sampling points has an important meaning for accurate quantitative expression on spatial distribution of soil pH and resource savings. Based on the grid distribution point method, 797, 700, 594, 499, 398, 299, 200, 149, 100, 75 and 50 sampling points, which were randomly se-lected from 908 sampling points, constituted 12 sample sets. Semi-variance structure analysis was carried out for different point sets, and ordinary Kriging was used for spatial prediction and ac-curacy verification, and the influence of different sampling points on spatial variation of soil pH was discussed. The results showed that the pH value in Kenli County was generally between 7.8 and 8.1, and the soil was alkaline. Semi-variance models fitted by different point sets could well reflect the spatial structure characteristics of soil pH. With the decrease of the number of sampling points, the Sill value of sample set increased, and the spatial autocorrelation gradually weakened. Considering the prediction accuracy, spatial distribution and investigation cost, the number of sampling points greater than or equal to 150 could satisfy the spatial variation expression of soil pH at the county level in the Yellow River Delta. This was equivalent to taking at least 107 sam-pling points per 1 000 km2. The results in this study are applicable to areas with similar environ-mental and soil conditions as the Yellow River Delta, and have certain reference significance for them.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Histone Methyltransferase Gene Family and their Expression Profiling Study on Yield in Two-line Hybrid Wheat
Authors: Gao Shiqing , Sun Renwei , Gong Jie , Liu Yongjie , Chen Zhaobo , Chen Xianchao , Zhang Fengting , Zhang Shengquan , Gao Jiangang , Cao Junmei , Zhao Changping
Published: March 2022

Background: Histone methylation usually play important roles in plant development through post-translational regulation and may provide a new visual field for heterosis. The histone methyltransferase gene family has been identified in various plants, but its members and functions in hybrid wheat related in heterosis is poorly studied. Results: In this study, 175 histone methyltransferase (HMT) genes were identified, including 152 histone lysine methyltransferase (HKMT) genes and 23 protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) genes. Gene structure analysis, physicochemical properties and subcellular localization predictions of the proteins, exhibited the adequate complexity of this gene family. HKMTs in angiosperms were classified into seven different orthologous groups, while four orthologous groups for PRMTs by phylogenetic analysis. As an allohexaploid species, the number of the genes in wheat was about three times than those in diploids and showed a relatively high degree of conservation, while only a small number of subfamilies such as ASH-like and Su-(var) subfamilies have expanded their members. Fifteen potential miRNA target sites in 11 different TaHMT genes were identified, and the expression of these TaHMT genes regulated by miRNAs were mainly through post-transcriptional cleavage manners. Transcriptome analysis showed that HMT genes were mainly expressed in the reproductive organs at distinct growth stages. Expression level of TaHMT genes exhibited different trends in various hybrid combinations; lncRNAs that are highly correlated with these HMTs were shown to have extremely similar expression trends in these materials. Pearson correlation analysis of gene expression and yield traits indicated that four HMT genes may participate in the yield heterosis of two-line hybrid wheat. Conclusions: Our study identified characteristics of the histone methyltransferase gene family and enhances the understanding of the evolution and function of these members in allohexaploid wheat.
Sex Differences in Frailty of Geriatric Outpatients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Multicentre Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Nguyen Huan , Nguyen An , Le Phuong
Published: March 2022

Purpose Frailty and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can occur concurrently and are increasingly prevalent in older populations. There is a marked variability in frailty progression between men and women. This study aimed to investigate sex differences in the prevalence and factors associated with frailty in older outpatients with T2DM. Methods This multicentre cross-sectional study included 638 outpatients (aged ≥60 years; mean age 71.9±7.2 years; male 55.5%) and was conducted from January 2019 to July 2020. Frailty was assessed using the Fried frailty phenotype. Factors associated with frailty were assessed using a logistic regression analysis. Results The overall frailty prevalence was 28.2% (men, 26.8%; women, 29.9%; P=0.388). In the adjusted model, the factors associated with greater odds of being frail were older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.11; P<0.001) and body mass index (BMI) less than 20 kg/m2 (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.16-3.32; P=0.012). Higher education (OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.42-0.98; P=0.041) and productive work (OR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.03-0.36; P<0.001) were protective factors against frailty. Frailty was associated with all four factors in women, but only with older age and productive work in men.Conclusion Women were more likely to be frail compared with men with T2DM, although the difference was not significant. While older age and BMI less than 20 kg/m2 can increase the odds of frailty, and higher education and productive work can decrease the odds of frailty in women, only age and productive work were associated with frailty in men with T2DM.