bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of the Psychosocial Health of Children and Adolescents With Obesity and Overweight: the Underappreciated Role of Physical Fitness
Authors: Eisenburger Nina , Friesen David , Haas Fabiola , Klaudius Marlen , Schmidt Lisa , Vandeven Susanne , Joisten Christine
Published: June 2021

Background: Childhood and adolescent obesity impacts on various dimensions of psychosocial health, including health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and personal self-concept. Detecting inhibitory and promotive factors of psychosocial health could contribute to the development of more effective obesity management. In this context, the role of physical fitness among the predicting variables of psychosocial health has rarely been investigated.Objective: To identify relevant predictors of weight-specific HRQOL and self-concept in the context of childhood and adolescent obesity.Methods: The sample comprised cross-sectional data of 241 children and adolescents with obesity and overweight (12.5 ± 2.1 years; 51.9% girls) and their parents. Information on demographics and active/inactive lifestyle were assessed via parent report. Anthropometric data and physical fitness in relation to body weight (W/kg) were measured. Children and adolescents completed standardized questionnaires (GW-LQ-KJ, FSK-K) to assess HRQOL and five dimensions of self-concept (scholastic, social, physical, behavioral, and self-worth). Results: Backward multivariable linear regression analysis showed that three subdomains of self-concept (physical, behavioral, self-worth) were negatively associated with increasing BMI Z-scores, age, physical activity (hours/week), low parental educational levels, or migration background. HRQOL, however, was only significantly related to relative physical fitness (W/kg; β=8.02, P<0.05) as were scholastic (β=8.92, P<0.05) and social self-concept (social β=8.68, P<0.05). Conclusion: The results add physical fitness as a relevant predictor of HRQOL and self-concept of children and adolescents with obesity and overweight. Therapeutic and preventive weight management strategies should therefore consider physical fitness as an important additional outcome measure of psychosocial health.
Rokitansky diverticulum with esophageo-spinal fistula leading to infective spondylodisciitis – A case report and review of literature
Authors: KUKREJA ASHISH , Thirugnanam Balamurugan , Janardhan Seema , Sreeniv D , Kishen Thomas Joseph
Published: June 2021

Background- Infective thoracic spondylodiscitis secondary to spontaneous perforation of the esophageal diverticulum is a rare condition. Case Report- A 56-year-old lady with cystic lung disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension of nine years duration and progressive dysphagia for two years was diagnosed with mid-esophageal diverticulum five months prior to presentation. The lady presented with infrascapular chest wall pain of one month’s duration and dyspnoea and wheezing of 15 days duration. Imaging showed a mid-esophageal diverticulum at T4-T5 level with a sinus tract extending to the T2-T3 disc, reduced T2-T3 disc height with endplate irregularities, and contrast enhancement of T2-T5 vertebral bodies suggestive of spondylodiscitis. Although a percutaneous vertebral biopsy was inconclusive, the blood culture grew Streptococcus Pseudoporcinus. The esophageal diverticulum was managed with an endoluminal stent and the infective spondylodisciitis was managed with an extended course of antibiotics led to the healing of both lesions. Conclusions- A Rokitansky mid-esophageal diverticulum with esophageo-spinal fistula causing infective spondylodisciitis is a rare condition. A combined management of the leaking esophageal diverticulum using an esophageal endoluminal metallic stent and an extended course of antibiotics to treat the infective spondylodisciitis led to a good outcome.
Volar Locking Plating for the Intra- and Extra-articular Distal Radius Fractures With Dorsal Metaphyseal Comminution
Authors: Gui Xue-yang , Cheng Zhao-hui , Shi Hongfei , Chen Yi-xin , Xiong Jin , Wang Jun-fei , Qiu Xu-sheng , Zhang Zi-tao
Published: June 2021

Background: Volar locking plating remains a popular method for the surgical management of distal radius fractures. Dorsal metaphyseal comminution (DMC) is a common fracture pattern which weakens the stability during fracture fixation. In this study, we aimed to compare the radiographic and functional outcome of the intra- and extra-articular distal radius fractures with DMC following volar locking plate fixation.Materials and methods: Patients suffered from a distal radius fracture with DMC were reviewed in the clinical database of the authors’ institution between Jan 2016 and Jan 2020. The included patients were classified into the extra-articular (A3) group or the intra-articular (C2 and C3) group according to the AO/OTA system. The radiological parameters, wrist range of motion, and functional outcomes were evaluated following open reduction and volar locking plate fixation.Results: A total of 130 patients were included in this study with a mean follow-up length of 17.2 months. Compared with the A3 fracture group, no significant fracture re-displacement or reduced wrist ROMs was observed in the C2 fractures after 12-month’s follow-up. However, significantly decreased volar tilt (P = 0.003) as well as the extension/flexion ROMs were observed in the C3 fractures comparing to the A3 fractures. Most of the patients achieved an excellent (n = 75) or good (n = 51) Gartland and Werley wrist score. Four patients with C3 fractures resulted in a fair functional outcome due to a significant loss of volar tilt during follow-up.Conclusions: The volar locking plate fixation provided sufficient stability for distal radius fractures with DMC, and resulted in similar radiological and functional outcomes in the intra-articular distal radius fractures with a simple articular component (C2 fractures) as those in the extra-articular fractures. Considering the intra-articular fractures with multifragmentary articular component (C3 fracture), despite of the subsequent loss of volar tilt, the majority of the patients achieved good to excellent wrist function following volar locking plating.Trial registration: Not applicable because the design of the study is retrospective.
Evaluation of Urinary Extravasation After Non-Operative Management of Traumatic Renal Injury: A Multi-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Muratsu Arisa , Nakao Shunichiro , Yoshimura Jumpei , Muroya Takashi , Shimazaki Junya , Nakagawa Yuko , Ogura Hiroshi , Shimazu Takeshi
Published: June 2021

Background: Urinary extravasation is one of the major complications after non-operative management of traumatic renal injury and may lead to urinary tract infection and sepsis. However, there is a paucity of research on timing of the occurrence or the risk factors of urinary extravasation among patients with traumatic renal injury. The purpose of this study was to evaluate these factors in patients with traumatic renal injury.Methods: This was a multi-center, retrospective, observational study performed at three tertiary referral hospitals in Osaka prefecture. We included patients with traumatic renal injury transported to the centers between January 2008 and December 2018. We excluded patients who either died or underwent nephrectomy within 24 hours after admission. We investigated the occurrence of urinary extravasation and the related factors after traumatic renal injury using multivariable logistic regression analysis.Results: In total, 146 patients were eligible for analysis. Their median age was 44 years and 68.5% were male. Their median Injury Severity Score was 17. Renal injuries were graded as American Association for Surgery of Trauma (AAST) grade I in 33 (22.6%), II in 27 (18.5%), III in 38 (26.0%), IV in 28 (19.2%), and V in 20 (13.7%) patients. Urinary extravasation was diagnosed in 26 patients (17.8%) and was statistically significantly associated with AAST grades IV-V (adjusted odds ratio, 33.8 [95% confidence interval, 7.12–160], p<0.001).Conclusion: We observed urinary extravasation in 17.8% of patients with non-operative management of traumatic renal injury and the diagnosed was made in mostly within 7 days after admission. In this study, the patients with AAST grade IV-V injury were associated with having urinary extravasation.
A Characteristic-Featured Shock Wave Indicator for Simulating High-Speed Inviscid Flows on 3D Unstructured Mesh
Authors: Feng Yiwei , Liu Tiegang , He Xiaofeng , Zhang Bin , Wang Kun
Published: June 2021

In this work, we extend the characteristic-featured shock wave indicator based on artificial neuron training to 3D high-speed flow simulation on unstructured mesh. The extension is achieved through dimension splitting. This leads to that the proposed indicator is capable of identifying regions of flow compression in any direction. With this capability, the indicator is further developed to combine with h-adaptivity of mesh refinement to improve resolution with less computational costs. The present indicator provided an attractive alternative for constructing high-resolution, high-efficiency shock-processing method to simulate high-speed inviscid flows.
Characterization of Thermostable Amylase From Halophilic Lactobacillus Plantarum TS1
Authors: Riaz Sania , Fareed Anum , Zaffar Habiba , Rehman Shafique Ur , Jamil Muhammad , Nawaz Ismat , Zeb Iftekhar , Hussain Jamshaid , Ahmed Raza , Naqvi Tatheer Alam
Published: June 2021

Amylase is an important enzyme use extensively in various industrial processes. It is mainly involved in the catalysis of starch that requires harsh conditions; therefore, it is required to isolate amylases with unique properties that makes it more applicable. Extremophiles are the major resource of such enzymes; therefore, amylase positive strains were isolated from the saline soil where the temperature is also exceptionally high. Five amylase positive strains were isolated from the Karak salt range, Kohat Pakistan and were identified by phylogenetic analysis. DNS based assay was employed to compare the activities of different amylases obtained from five strains while using the starch as a substrate. The amylase obtained from Lactobacillus plantarum TS1 was found to be more efficient, which was purified and characterized. The SDS-PAGE of purified amylase showed a single band with an estimated size of 10 kDa. The kinetic parameters were measured at two temperatures i.e. at 37 °C and 50 °C. The Kcat as well as the Kcat/KM were found to be high when temperature increased from 37 °C to 50 °C. Amylase was active at wide range of temperature as well as pH and work efficiently in the presence of salts and various organic solvents.
Bifunctional Ligand-Assisted Cu-Catalyzed Intermolecular Cyclo-hexenone γ‑C(sp3)-H Amination: Controlled Synthesis of p-Aminophenols
Authors: Zhao Xin , Yang Fang , Zhou Qian-Qian , Shaoyu Zou , Chen Zi-Sheng , Ji Kegong
Published: June 2021

A 1,10-phenanthroline-type bifunctional ligand has been developed for Cu catalyzed direct γ-C(sp3)-H amination with intermolecular anilines. Stabilizing N-centered radicals via amide group installed on the bifunctional ligands, a new catalytic system for site-selective γ-C(sp3)-H amination to synthesize p-aminophenols was established. The economical and practical approach by using oxygen as the terminal oxidant was mild and environmental friendly.
Pyrithione Metal (Cu, Ni, Ru) Complexes as Photo-Catalysts for Styrene Oxide Production
Authors: Dasireddy Venkata D. B. C. , Kladnik Jerneja , Korošec Romana Cerc , Likozar Blaž , Turel Iztok
Published: June 2021

Selective photochemical oxidation of styrene was performed in an active acetonitrile medium, using H2O2 with or without ultraviolet (UV) light radiation. Pyrithione metal complexes (M–Pth: M = Cu(II), Ni(II), Ru(II); Pth = 2-mercaptopyridine-N-oxide) were used as catalysts. Catalytic testing measurements were done by varying the time, chemical reaction temperature and H2O2 concentration with or without UV energy. Epoxide styrene oxide (SO), benzaldehyde and acetophenone were the major synthesized products. A high batch rate, conversion and selectivity towards SO was shown in the presence of UV. A minor constant formation of CO2 was observed in the stream. Coordinated Ru-based compounds demonstrated the highest process productivity of SO at 60 °C. The effect of the functional alkyl substituent on the ligand Pth, attached to the specific ruthenium(II) centre, decreased the activity of the substance. Ni-Pth selectively yielded benzaldehyde. The stability of the catalysts was examined by applying nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis coupled with mass spectrometry. Tested metal complexes with pyrithione (M–Pth) exhibited excellent reuse recyclability up to 3 cycles.
LIMD2 Is a Prognostic and Predictive Marker in Patients With Esophageal Cancer Based on a Cerna Network Analysis
Authors: Chen Yuanmei , Huang Xinyi , Zhu Kunshou , Li Changkun , Peng Haiyan , Chen Lin , Huang Zhengrong , Zhang Yangfan , Weng Guibin , Xiao Tianya , Chen Junqiang , Xu Yuanji
Published: June 2021

Background. Globally, esophageal cancer (ECA) is the seventh most common cancer and sixth most common cause of cancer-associated mortality. However, there are no reliable prognostic and predictive molecular markers for ECA; in addition, the pathogenesis of ECA are not fully elucidated. This study was to explore the potential prognostic and predictive markers of ECA, as well as investigate the mechanisms of ECA. Methods. The expressions of circular RNAs (circRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) of ECA and control groups were obtained from the RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data of our hospital, the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets. Analyses of differentially-expressed genes, the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, and functional/pathway enrichment were conducted. The key targets in the ceRNA network that showed significant results in survival Cox regression analyses were selected. Furthermore, analyses of immune infiltration and autophagy genes related to the key targets were performed.Results. Seven circRNAs, 22 miRNAs, and 34 mRNAs were identified as vital genes in ECA; the nuclear factor-κ-gene binding (NF-κB) and phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K-Akt) signaling were identified as the most enriched pathways. In addition, LIM domain containing 2 (LIMD2) was an independent predictor of prognosis in ECA patients, and closely associated with immunity and autophagy. Moreover, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) revealed significant upregulation of LIMD2 expression in ECA tissues.Conclusions. ECA may be closely correlated with NF-κB and PI3K/Akt signaling. In addition, LIMD2 could be a potential prognostic and predictive marker of ECA. Our study may provide novel insights into the prognosis and treatment of ECA by its pathogenesis.
Quality of Life of Menopausal Women Residing Dharan Sub-metropolitan City, Nepal
Authors: Thapa Anu , Shrestha Mangala , Pokharel Nirmala , Basnet Tulasa
Published: June 2021

Background: Menopause poses a big challenge during middle age and to the healthy aging of woman. Majority of women face various problems and disturbances in daily living leading to decrease in quality of life. This study focuses on menopause related symptoms and quality of life in relation to the symptoms. Method: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 women of age 40-60 years at Dharan Sub-metropolitan City of Nepal selected through snowball sampling technique. The data were collected over the period of four weeks. Semi- structured questionnaire for demographic variables and menopause specific quality of life (MENQOL) questionnaire were used to collect data. Interview technique was adapted. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to interpret data. Result: Mean menopausal age of the study group was 47.14 years. The most common symptoms of vasomotor, psychosocial, physical and sexual domains were hot flushes, experiencing poor memory, feeling tired or worn out and change in sexual desire respectively. The overall score of menopausal quality of life for each domain reported that highest the mean score in sexual domain (3.58 ± 1.62) and least score in vasomotor domain (2.08 ± 1.67). The score of physical domain was significantly high in late postmenopausal group than early postmenopausal group. Significant association was obtained with age, ethnicity, menopause status, physical activity and marital status in relation to the domains of quality of life. Conclusions: The results conclude that all the menopausal women were having at least one menopausal symptom from each domain. The menopausal women scored highest in sexual domain and least in vasomotor domain suggesting decrease quality of life in relation to sexual domain. Menopausal symptoms were associated with decrease in quality of life. Thus awareness regarding the menopausal changes should be focused in premenopausal age group of women
Effect of Body Mass Index on the Association Between Alcohol Consumption and the Development of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hashimoto Yusaku , Kato Sawako , Yasuda Yoshinari , Ishimoto Takuji , Kawashiri Hiroaki , Hori Akihiro , Imaizumi Takahiro , Maruyama Shoichi
Published: June 2021

Although previous studies demonstrated that alcohol consumption is associated with low chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk, they did not consider individual body mass and metabolic capacity. We examined whether the body mass index (BMI) affects the association between drinking and CKD. We defined CKD as an estimated glomerular filtration rate decline < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or dipstick proteinuria (≥ 1+). Participants were 11,175 Japanese individuals aged 40–74 years without baseline CKD who underwent annual health checkups. Daily alcohol consumption was estimated from a questionnaire, and the participants were categorized as "infrequent drinkers," "light drinkers (< 20 g/day)," "moderate drinkers (20–40 g/day)," and "heavy drinkers (≥ 40 g/day)." Over a median 5-year observation period, 936 participants developed CKD. Cox proportional hazards models revealed that light drinkers had a significantly reduced risk of CKD compared with infrequent drinkers (P = 0.01). Stratified by BMI, the low BMI (< 18.5 kg/m2) group had an increased risk of CKD even in light drinkers, while the high BMI (≥ 25.0 kg/m2) group had a decreased risk of CKD regardless of alcohol consumption. Taken together, alcohol consumption did not reduce the CKD risk in all populations; individual tolerance must be considered.
Strong Thermal Stratification Reduces Detection Efficiency and Range of Acoustic Telemetry in a Large Freshwater Lake
Authors: Kuai Yulong , Klinard Natalie , Fisk Aaron , Johnson Timothy , Halfyard Edmund , Webber Dale , Smedbol Stephanie , Wells Mathew
Published: June 2021

BackgroundThe successful use of acoustic telemetry to detect fish hinges on understanding the factors that control the acoustic range. The speed-of-sound in water is primarily a function of density, and in freshwater lakes density is primarily driven by temperature. The seasonal thermal stratification in the Great Lakes represent the strongest sound speed gradients in any aquatic system. Such speed-of-sound gradients can refract sound waves leading to greater divergence of acoustic signal, and hence more rapid attenuation. The changes in sound attenuation change the detection range of a telemetry array and hence influence the ability to monitor fish. We use three months of data from a sentinel array of V9 and V16 Vemco acoustic fish tags, and a record of temperature profiles to determine how changes in stratification influence acoustic range in eastern Lake Ontario. ResultWe interpret data from an acoustic telemetry array in Lake Ontario to show that changes in acoustic detection efficiency and range correlate strongly with changes in sound speed gradients due to thermal stratification. The strongest sound speed gradients of 10.38 ms-1/m crossing the thermocline occurred in late summer, which caused the sound speed difference between the top and bottom of the water column to be greater than 60 m/s. V9 tags transmitting across the thermocline could have their acoustic range reduced from >650 m to 350 m, while the more powerful V16 tags had their range reduced from >650 m to 450 m. In contrast we found that when the acoustic source and receiver were both transmitting below thermocline there was no change in range, even as the strength of sound speed gradient varied. ConclusionChanges in thermal stratification occur routinely in the Great Lakes, on timescales between months and days. The acoustic range can be reduced by as much as 50% compared to unstratified conditions when fish move across the thermocline. We recommend that researchers consider the influences of thermal stratification to acoustic telemetry when configuring receiver position.
A Clinical Study of AWT Measurement and Polynomial Regression Model Analysis in Critically Ill patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Tang Hao , Zhao Dongchu , Zhang Chuan , Huang Xiaoying , Liu Dong , Li Yang , Wang Yaoli , Jiang Dongpo , Wang Zhengguo , Liang Huaping , zhang lianyang
Published: June 2021

Background：In this study, a new measurement device was used to measure the AWT in critically ill patients and a polynomial regression model was applied to analyze the correlation between intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and AWT in critically ill patients.Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted in critically ill patients who were admitted to the Department of Critical Care Medicine of Daping Hospital of Army Medical University from March 13, 2019, to May 23, 2020. According to the intravesical pressure (IVP) on the first day of ICU admission and death within 28 days, the patients were divided into the IAH group (IVP ≥12 mmHg), the non-IAH group, the survival group and the nonsurvival group. The demographic and clinical data, prognostic indicators, AWT and IVP on days 1-7 after entering the ICU, IAH risk factors, and 28-day death risk factors were collected.Results: The AWT on the 1st and mean 7th day of the IAH group was (2.89±0.32)N/mm and (2.82±0.46) N/mm, respectively, which was higher than that of the non-IAH group [ (2.45±0.29) N/mm, (2.43±0.39) N/mm], p＜0.001. The average IVP on the 1st and mean 7th day of all patients were 12.78 (6.14, 18.99) and 11.49 (6.66, 19.43) mmHg, and the AWT on the 1st and mean 7th days were (2.75±0.38) and (2.75±0.47) N/mm, respectively, with significant differences (p< 0.0001). The polynomial regression models showed that the average AWT and IVP on the 1st and mean 7th were AWTday1=-2.450×10-3, IVP2+9.695×10-2 IVP+2.046，r=0.667（p＜0.0001），and AWTmean=-2.293×10-3, IVP2+9.273×10-2 IVP+2.081, respectively. The logistic regression analysis showed that AWTday1 2.73-2.97N/mm increased the patient's 28-day mortality risk (OR: 6.834; 95%: 1.105-42.266, p=0.010).Conclusion: There is a nonlinear correlation between AWT and IVP in critically ill patients, and a high AWT may indicate poor prognosis.Trial registration：ChiCTR，ChiCTR1900020562. Registered 8 January 2019，http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=34441
Nosocomial Infections Among COVID-19 Patients: an Analysis of Prospective Intensive Care Unit Surveillance Data
Authors: Ong Clara Chong Hui , Farhanah Sharifah , Linn Kyaw Zaw , Tang Ying Wei , Poon Chu Ying , Lim Allie Yin , Tan Hui Ru , Hamed Nur Hafizah Binte , Huan Xiaowei , Puah Ser Hon , Ho Benjamin Choon Heng , Soon Margaret Mei Ling , Ang Brenda Sze Pang , Vasoo Shawn , Chan Monica , Leo Yee Sin , Ng Oon Tek , Marimuthu Kalisvar
Published: June 2021

Surveillance of nosocomial infections, like catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), possible ventilator-associated pneumonia (PVAP) and secondary bloodstream infections were observed to study the impact of COVID-19 outbreak in ICUs from Tan Tock Seng Hospital and National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore between February and June 2020. Higher nosocomial infection rates were observed in COVID-19 patients, although it was not statistically significant. Moreover, COVID-19 patients seem to be more predisposed to CAUTI despite a higher proportion of non-COVID-19 patients having urinary catheters. Thus, continued vigilance to ensure adherence to IPC measures is needed.
Expression , Purification, and Characterization of the Recombinant, Two-component, Response Regulator Arlr From Fusobacterium Nucleatum
Authors: Fan Ruochen , Li Zhuting , Quan Chunshan , Wang Lulu , Shi Xian , Zhang Xuqiang , Dong Yuesheng
Published: June 2021

Fusobacterium nucleatum is associated with the incidence and development of multiple diseases, such as periodontitis and colorectal cancer (CRC). Till now, studies have proved only a few proteins to be associated with such pathogenic diseases. The two-component system is one of the most prevalent forms of bacterial signal transduction related to intestinal diseases. Here we report a novel, recombinant, two-component, response-regulator protein ArlR from the genome of F. nucleatum strain ATCC 25586. We optimized the expression and purification conditions of ArlR; in addition, we characterized the interaction of this response regulator protein to the corresponding histidine kinase and DNA sequence. The full-length ArlR was successfully expressed in six of the E. coli host strains. However, optimum expression conditions of ArlR were present only in E. coli strain BL21 Condon plus (DE3) RIL that was later induced with isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) for 8 h at 25 °C. The SDS-PAGE analysis revealed the molecular weight of the recombinant protein as 27.3 kDa and approximately 90% purity after gel filtration chromatography. ArlR was biologically active after its purification. Therefore, it accepted the corresponding phosphorylated histidine-kinase phosphate group and bound to the analogous DNA sequence. The binding constant between ArlR and the corresponding histidine kinase is 1.28 µM, while the binding constant between ArlR and the bound DNA sequence is 37.5 µM. Altogether, these results illustrate an effective expression and purification method for the novel two-component system protein ArlR.
Protocol Variations in Run-On Transcription Dataset Preparation Produce Detectable Signatures in Sequencing Libraries
Authors: Hunter Samuel , Sigauke Rutendo , Stanley Jacob , Allen Mary , Dowell Robin
Published: June 2021

Background: A variety of protocols exist for producing whole genome run-on transcription datasets. However, little is known about how differences between these protocols affect the signal within the resulting libraries. Results: Using run-on transcription datasets generated from the same biological system, we show that a variety of GRO- and PRO-seq preparation methods leave identifiable signatures within each library. Specifically we show that the library preparation method results in differences in quality control metrics, as well as differences in the signal distribution at the 50 end of transcribed regions. These shifts lead to disparities in eRNA identification. However, these differences do not impact analyses aimed at inferring the key regulators involved in changes to transcription.Conclusions: Run-on sequencing protocol variations results in technical signatures that can be used to identify both the enrichment and library preparation method of a particular data set. These technical signatures are batch effects that limit detailed comparisons of pausing ratios and eRNAs identified across protocols. However, these batch effects have only limited impact on our ability to infer the regulators underlying observed transcriptional changes.
EFL Supervisors’ Written Feedback Focus and Language Functions on Masters Degree Students Thesis
Authors: gedamu abate demissie , Gezehagn Tesfaye Habtemariam
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to examine EFL supervisors’ written feedback focus, and language functions at some selected public universities in Ethiopia. To address the objective of the study, a descriptive exploratory design was adopted. 55 supervisees were randomly selected of 255 for the questionnaire survey. Besides, four supervisors were selected for interviews. Moreover, feedback comments on five theses drafts were utilized as data sources. To decide the language functions and feedback foci, frequency counts and percentage were used. Nonetheless, the interview data were analyzed qualitatively as per their themes. The results showed thesis supervisors used the directive feedback language function most prevailingly over the expressive in their feedback provision. There was no balance of praise, criticism, and suggestions in the provision of feedback comments. The supervisors largely focused on content knowledge, followed by genre knowledge, and then linguistic accuracy and appropriateness (forms), respectively.
Evaluation of Zinc Sulfate as an Adjunctive Therapy in COVID-19 Critically Ill Patients: a Two Center Propensity-score Matched Study
Authors: Sulaiman Khalid Al , Juhani Ohoud Al , Shaya Abdulrahman I Al , Kharbosh Abdullah , Kensara Raed , Guwairy Alhomaidi Al , Alharbi Aisha , Algarni Rahmah , Harbi Shmeylan Al , Vishwakarma Ramesh K. , Korayem Ghazwa B.
Published: June 2021

Background: Zinc is a trace element that plays a role in stimulating innate and acquired immunity. The role of zinc in critically ill patients with COVID-19 remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of zinc sulfate as adjunctive therapy in critically ill patients with COVID-19.Methods: Patients aged ≥ 18 years with a COVID-19 who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) in two tertiary hospitals in Saudi Arabia were retrospectively assessed for zinc use, from 01 March 2020 until 31-December 2020. We assessed the association of zinc use as adjunctive therapy with the in-hospital and 30-day mortality after propensity score matching. Secondary outcomes included mechanical ventilation (MV) duration, ICU length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, and complication (s) during ICU stay. Results: A total of 266 patients were included in this study after using propensity score matching. Zinc sulfate as adjunctive therapy during ICU stay was not associated with statistically significant reduction in 30-day mortality nor in-hospital mortality compared to those who did not receive zinc (HR= 0.65 CI = 0.41,1.01; p= 0.05 and HR= 0.67 CI = 0.45,1.00; p= 0.05; respectively). Moreover, MV duration (Beta coefficient 0.10 CI = -0.19,0.39; p= 0.48), ICU LOS (Beta coefficient 0.19 CI = -0.02,0.40; p=0.08) and hospital LOS (Beta coefficient 0.15 CI = -0.02,0.32; p=0.08) were not statistically significant between the two groups. Patients who received zinc have a higher odds of acute kidney injury (AKI) during ICU stay (OR= 1.80 CI = 1.08-3.0; p= 0.02). Conclusion: Zinc sulfate as adjunctive therapy in critically ill patients with COVID-19 may have survival benefit; however, was not statistically significant. Zinc use was linked with an increased risk of AKI development during ICU stay.
Engaging Stakeholders to Retrospectively Discern Implementation Strategies in Support of Program Evaluation
Authors: Painter Jacob T. , Raciborski Rebecca A. , Matthieu Monica M. , Oliver Ciara , Adkins David A. , Garner Kimberly K.
Published: June 2021

Background: Successful implementation of evidence-based practices is key to healthcare quality improvement. However, it depends on appropriate selection of implementation strategies, the techniques that improve practice adoption or sustainment. When studying implementation of an evidence-based practice as part of a program evaluation, implementation scientists confront a challenge: the timing of strategy selection rarely aligns with the establishment of data collection protocols. Indeed, the exact implementation strategies used by an organization during a quality improvement initiative may be determined during implementation. Nevertheless, discernment of strategies is necessary to accurately estimate implementation effect and cost because this information can support decision making for sustainment, guide replication efforts, and inform the choice of implementation strategies for other evidence-based practices. Main body: We propose an iterative, stakeholder engaged process to discern implementation strategies when strategy choice was not made before data collection began. Stakeholders are centered in the process, providing a list of current and potential implementation activities. These activities are then mapped by an implementation science expert to an established taxonomy of implementation strategies. The mapping is then presented back to stakeholders for member checking and refinement. The final list can be used to survey those engaged in implementation activities in a language they are familiar with. A case study using this process is provided. Conclusion: It is challenging to estimate implementation effort when implementation strategy selection is disconnected from the data collection process. In these cases, a stakeholder-informed process to retrospectively identify implementation strategies by classifying activities performed using an established implementation strategy taxonomy provides the necessary information.
Nonclinical Study and Applicability of the Absorbed Dose Conversion Method With a Single Biodistribution Measurement for Targeted Alpha-Nuclide Therapy
Authors: Sakashita Tetsuya , Matsumoto Shojiro , Watanabe Shigeki , Hanaoka Hirofumi , Ohshima Yasuhiro , Ikoma Yoko , Ukon Naoyuki , Sasaki Ichiro , Higashi Tatsuya , Higuchi Tetsuya , Tsushima Yoshito , Ishioka Noriko S.
Published: June 2021

BackgroundWe recently reported a new absorbed dose conversion method, RAP (RAtio of Pharmacokinetics), for 211At-meta-astatobenzylguanidine (211At-MABG) using a single biodistribution measurement (%ID/g). However, there were some mathematical ambiguities in determing the optimal timing of a single measurement of %ID/g. Thus, we aimed to mathematically reconstruct the RAP method and to examine the optimal timing of a single measurement. ResultsWe derived a new formalism of the RAP dose conversion method at time t and investigated the new formalism’s performance using a representative RAP coefficient with radioactive-decay weighting. Dose conversions by representative RAP coefficients predicted the true [211At]MABG absorbed doses with an error of 10% or less. The inverses of the representative RAP coefficients plotted at 4 h post-injection, which was the optimal timing reported in the previous work, were very close to the new inverses of the RAP coefficients 4 h post-injection. Next, we acquired a formula to determine the optimal timing of a single measurement of %ID/g, assuming the one-compartment model for biological clearance. The behavior of the optimal timing was analyzed by radiolabeled compounds with physical half-lives of 7.2 h and 10 d on various biological clearance half-lives. Behavior maps of optimal timing showed a tendency to converge to a constant value as the biological clearance half-life of a target increased. The areas of optimal timing for both compounds within a 5% or 10% prediction error were distributed around the optimal timing when the biological clearance half-life of a target was equal to that of the reference. Finally, an example of RAP dose conversion was demonstrated for [211At]MABG.ConclusionsThe RAP dose conversion method renovated by the new formalism was able to estimate the [211At]MABG absorbed dose using a similar pharmacokinetics, such as [131I]MIBG. The present formalism revealed optimizing imaging time points on absorbed dose conversion between two radiopharmaceuticals. Further analysis and clinical data will be needed to elucidate the validity of a behavior map of the optimal timing of a single measurement for targeted alpha-nuclide therapy.
Development and Characterization of Microsatellite Markers, and Genetic Diversity Sapota (Manilkara Zapota (L.) P. Royen)
Authors: kundapura Ravishankar V. , Patil Prakash , Rekha Ajitha , Sathanandam Pavithra , Iyyamperumal Muthuvel , Patel Amrutlal Ravjibhai , babu Ramesh , Shirol Adiveppa
Published: June 2021

Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen, commonly known as sapota, a widely adaptable and popular evergreen tree meant for its appetizing fruits in tropics, but lacks genomic resources such as microsatellite markers. To develop the genomic markers for M. zapota, we sequenced the partial genomic DNA using next-generation sequencing technology on the Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform. We analysed a total of 3.33 Gb data that were assembled into 6,396,224 contigs, from which 3591 simple sequence repeats were identified. Among the different type of repeats, mononucleotide repeats (59.1%) were predominant, followed by dinucleotide (28.6%) and trinucleotide repeats (8.2%). Primers were designed for 1285 M. zapota microsatellite regions from which 30 randomly selected primers were standardized and employed for amplification of 53 genotypes. We observed 692 alleles from 30 loci with a polymorphic information content ranging from 0.85 to 0.96, a mean of 0.9118. The probability of identity ranged from 0.002 to 0.043 with a mean of 0.012. Genetic diversity assessed by neighbour-joining and STRUCTURE assignment tests showed an admixed population with three groups. Analysis of molecular variance revealed a significant Fst value of 0.69659, indicating a high genetic differentiation among the 53 genotypes. The microsatellites developed here will be beneficial for assessing the genetic diversity, developing linkage map and also molecular characterization of genotypes.
Identification of Aneuploidy in Dogs Screened by a SNP Microarray
Authors: Shaffer Lisa G , Hopp Bradley , Świtoński Marek , Zahand Adam , Ballif Blake C
Published: June 2021

Microarray analysis is an efficient approach for screening and identifying cytogenetic imbalances in humans. SNP arrays, in particular, are a powerful way to identify copy number gains and losses representing aneuploidy and aneusomy, but moreover, allow for the direct assessment of individual genotypes in known disease loci. Using these approaches, trisomies, monosomies and mosaicism of whole chromosomes have been identified in human microarray studies. For canines, this approach is not widely used in clinical laboratory diagnostic practice. In our laboratory, we have implemented the use of a propriety SNP array that represents approximately 650,000 loci across the domestic dog genome. During the validation of this microarray prior to clinical use, we identified three cases of aneuploidy after screening 2,053 dogs of various breeds including monosomy X, trisomy X and an apparent, mosaic trisomy of canine chromosome 38 (CFA 38). This study represents the first use of microarrays for copy number evaluation to identify cytogenetic anomalies in canines. As microarray analysis becomes more routine in canine genetic testing, more cases of chromosome aneuploidy are likely to be uncovered.
Computing Cliques and Cavities in Networks
Authors: Shi Dinghua , Chen Zhifeng , Sun Xiang , Chen Qinghua , Ma Chuang , Lou Yang , Chen Guanrong
Published: June 2021

Complex networks have complete subgraphs such as nodes, edges, triangles, etc., referred to as cliques of different orders. Notably, cavities consisting of higher-order cliques have been found playing an important role in brain functions. Since searching for the maximum clique in a large network is an NP-complete problem, we propose using k-core decomposition to determine the computability of a given network subject to limited computing resources. For a computable network, we design a search algorithm for finding cliques of different orders, which also provides the Euler characteristic number. Then, we compute the Betti number by using the ranks of the boundary matrices of adjacent cliques. Furthermore, we design an optimized algorithm for finding cavities of different orders. Finally, we apply the algorithm to the neuronal network of C. elegans in one dataset, and find all of its cliques and some cavities of different orders therein, providing a basis for further mathematical analysis and computation of the structure and function of the C. elegans neuronal network.
Identify the impact of the covalent-bonded carbon matrix to FeN4 sites for acidic oxygen reduction
Authors: Li Xueli , Xiang Zhonghua
Published: June 2021

Atomically dispersed Fe and N co-doped carbon (Fe–N–C) catalysts exhibited superior acid oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activities and recently been considered as the most promising alternatives to the benchmark Pt-based catalysts for proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The atomic configuration between Fe, N and C is one of the key factors to affect ORR activity. However, the traditional synthetic methods that rely on pyrolysis of the mixtures of Fe, N and C precursors often result in the plurality of local environment for the FeNx site. Unveiling the effect of covalent-bonded carbon matrix to FeNx sites towards ORR activity is important but still a great challenge due to inevitable connection of diverse N as well as random defects during the pyrolysis process. Here, we report a proof-of-concept study on the evaluation of covalent-bonded carbon environment connected to FeN4 sites on their catalytic activity via pyrolysis-free approach. Basing on the closed π conjugated phthalocyanine-based intrinsic covalent organic polymers (COPs) with well-designed structures, we directly synthesized a series of atomically dispersed Fe-N-C catalysts with various pure carbon environment without any N doping directly connected to the same FeN4 sites. Experiments coupled with density functional theory demonstrate that the catalytic activities appear a volcano plot with the increase of degree of delocalized π electrons from the carbon matrix. The delocalized π electrons changed anti-bonding d-state energy level of the single FeN4 moieties, hence tailored the adsorption between active centers and oxygen intermediates and altered the rate-determining step of oxygen reduction reaction.
Screening and Validation of a Novel T Stage-Lymph Node Ratio Classification for Colon Cancer
Authors: Pei Jun-Peng , Zhang Rui , Zhang Nan-Nan , Zeng Yong-Ji , Sun Zhe , Ma Si-Ping , Zhou Jian-Guo , Li Xin-Xiang , Fan Jin , Zhu Ji , Abe Masanobu , Mei Zu-Bing , Shi Gang , Zhang Chun-Dong
Published: June 2021

Purpose Lymph node ratio (LNR) has advantages in predicting prognosis over the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) N stage. However, the prognostic value of establishing a novel T stage-Lymph Node Ratio classification (TLNR) for colon cancer by combining LNR and T stage is currently unknown.Methods We included 62,294 stage I-III colon cancer patients from the SEER data base as a training cohort. An external validation was performed in 3,327 additional patients. A novel LNR stage was established and included into a novel TLNR classification by combining with T stage. Patients with similar survivals were grouped according to T and LNR stages, with T1LNR1 as a reference. Results We developed a novel TLNR classification: stages I (T1LNR1-2, T1LNR4), IIA (T1LNR3, T2LNR1-2, T3LNR1), IIB (T1LNR5, T2LNR3-4, T3LNR2, T4aLNR1), IIC (T2LNR5, T3LNR3-4, T4aLNR2, T4bLNR1), IIIA (T3LNR5, T4aLNR3-4, T4bLNR2), IIIB (T4aLNR5, T4bLNR3-4), and IIIC (T4bLNR5). In the training cohort, the TLNR had better prognostic discrimination [area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), 0.621 vs. 0.608, P < 0.001], superior model-fitting ability in predicting overall survival [Akaike information criteria (AIC), 561,129 vs. 562,052], and better net benefits than the AJCC 8th tumor/node/metastasis (TNM) classification. Those results were successfully validated in predicting both overall and disease-free survivals in an independent validation set. Conclusions The TLNR classification has better prognostic discrimination, model-fitting ability and net benefits than the AJCC 8th TNM classification for better stratifying operable colon cancer patients, especially in patients with less than 12 retrieved lymph nodes.
GW10, a Member of P450 Subfamily Regulates Grain Size and Grain Number in Rice
Authors: Zhan PengLin , Wei Xin , Xiao Zhili , Wang Xiaoling , Ma Shuaipeng , Lin Shaojun , Li Fangping , Bu Suhong , Liu Zupei , Zhu Haitao , Liu Guifu , Zhang Guiquan , Wang Shaokui
Published: June 2021

Grain size and grain number play extremely important roles in rice grain yield. Here, we identify GW10 , which encodes a P450 subfamily protein and controlls grain size and grain number by using Lemont ( tropical japonica ) as donor parent and HJX74 ( indica ) as recipient parent. The GW10 locus was mapped into a 20.1 kb region on the long arm of Chromosome 10. Lower expression of the gw10 in panicle is contributed to the shorter and narrower rice grain, and the increased number of grains per panicle. Furthermore, the higher expression levels of some of the brassinosteroid (BR) biosynthesis and response genes are associated with the NIL- GW10 , which strongly suggests that the GW10 is a key node in the brassinosteroid-mediated regulation of rice grain shape and grain number.
Retroperitoneal Robot-Assisted Single-Port Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy: Initial Experience With the Da Vinci Si Robotic System
Authors: Yu Chenhao , Ye Liyin , Zhu Shibin , Wang Zhenghui , Li Gonghui , Yu Shicheng
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: To present the initial experience in retroperitoneal robot-assisted single-port laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma and evaluate its efficiency and safety.(2) Methods: Retrospectively analyzed four patients underwent retroperitoneal robot-assisted single-port laparoscopic partial nephrectomy in our hospital during September 2020 to December 2020. Patients who with renal cell carcinoma (T1b or T1c) were selected into our study. A multichannel port was inserted retroperitoneally through a 4-5cm incision. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were finally recorded and analyzed.(3) Results: The median patient age was 62.0(range 49-68) year, the median body mass index was 23.0(range 21.3-24.2) kg/m2. No one had abdominal surgery history. All surgeries were successfully completed and none of them was changed to open surgery or added additional auxiliary channels. The median docking time was 16.5(range 15-25) minutes, the median operation time was 177.5(range 145-230) minutes, the median warm ischemia time was 19.0(range 15-25) minutes, the median estimated blood loss was 50.0(range 40-60) mL. No patient needed blood transfusion. The median postoperative fasting time was 3.5(range 1-5) days, the median catheter removal time was 5.5(range 5-7) days, and the median hospital stay was 7.0(6-8) days. None of the patients had intraoperative or postoperative complications. After 3 months of follow-up, there was no tumor recurrence in all four patients. (4) Conclusions: Retroperitoneal robot-assisted single-port laparoscopic partial nephrectomy is a feasible surgical method, but additional investigations are still needed to evaluate its safety and oncologic adequacy.