bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Pyroptosis Related Genes Signature Predicts Prognosis and Immune Infiltration of Tumor microenvironment in Hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fang Guoxu , Zhang Qinghua , Fan Jianhui , Ding Zongren , Fu Jun , Wu Yijun , Zeng Yongyi , Liu Jingfeng
Published: May 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a particularly heterogeneous tumor. It has a very poor prognosis. Pyroptosis has been demonstrated in recent years to be an inflammatory form of programmed cell death. However, the relationship between the expression of pyroptosis related genes (PRGs) and prognosis of HCC is still unclear. The development of a specific PRGs prognostic model is important if we want to improve therapeutic effect of tumor. In this study, we identified 42 PRGs that were differentially expressed between HCC and peripheral normal tissues and exhibited the mutation frequency, classification, the location of copy number variation (CNV) alteration and the CNV variation frequency of PRGs. Two clusters were distinguished by the consensus clustering analysis based on the 42 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The result show that there were significant differences in clinical features (including T stage, grade, gender, stage) among different clusters. KM curve analysis show that cluster 1 had a better prognosis than cluster 2. The prognostic value of PRGs for survival was evaluated to construct a multigene signature using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort. By applying the univariate analysis and multivariate analysis method, a 10-gene signature was built and all HCC patients in the TCGA cohort were divided into low-risk group and high-risk group. HCC patients in the high-risk group showed significantly lower survival possibilities than those in the low-risk group (P<0.001). Utilizing the median risk score from the TCGA cohort, HCC patients from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohort (GSE14520) were divided into two risk subgroups. The result showed that overall survival (OS) time was decreased in the high-risk group (P=0.027). Combined with the clinical characteristics, the risk score was found to be an independent factor for predicting the OS of HCC patients. Then, for evaluating the prognostic prediction value of the model, ROC curve and survival analysis were performed. Finally, we constructed a PRGs clinical characteristics nomogram to furtherly predict HCC patient survival probability. There were significant differences in immune cell infiltration, GSEA enrichment pathway, IC50 of chemotherapeutics, PRGs mutation frequency, GO and KEGG analysis between high-risk group and low-risk group. This work suggests PRGs signature plays a crucial role in HCC. The exploration may assist in identifying novel biomarkers and assist HCC patients in predicting their prognosis, clinical diagnosis, and management.
Estimating prevalence and predictors of musculoskeletal disorders in Tanzania – A pilot study
Authors: Yongolo Nateiya Mmeta , Halliday Jo , Bunn Christopher , Mtesha Benson , Kelly Clive , Krauth Stefanie J , Mwingwa Anthon , Biswaro Sanjura Mandela , Siebert Stefan , Kipengele Asia Hemed , Walker Richard , McIntosh Emma , Mmbaga Blandina Theophil
Published: May 2022

Background: Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders account for 20% of all years lived with disability worldwide. There have been few prevalence studies of MSK disorders in Africa, and none published from Tanzania. Screening for MSK disorders is not routinely conducted in healthcare facilities and there are no registered rheumatology consultants in northern Tanzania. This pilot study aimed to provide an initial estimate of the community-based prevalence, and predictors, of MSK disorders and to assess the functional status and disability associated with MSK disorders. Methods: A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted in a single village in the Hai District Kilimanjaro region from March to June 2019, involving the administration of Gait, Arms, Legs, Spine (GALS) or paediatric GALS (pGALS) physical examinations during household and school visits. Individuals positive by GALS/pGALS screening were assessed by the regional examination of the musculoskeletal system (REMS) and the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (MHAQ) tools. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to understand the influence of demographic variables (age and sex), tribe and religion on GALS/pGALS, REMS and MHAQ outcomes. Results: A total of 1854 participants were enrolled. Of the 1172 individuals enrolled at the household level, 95 showed signs of MSK disorders during the GALS/pGALS examination (8.1%, 95% CI: 6.6 – 9.8) and 37 during the REMS examination (3.2%, 95% CI: 2.2 – 4.3), respectively. Among all 682 participants enrolled in schools, seven showed signs of MSK disorders during the GALS/pGALS examination (1.0%, 95% CI: 0.4 – 2.1) and three during the REMS examination (0.4%, 95% CI: 0.0 – 1.3), respectively. In the household enrolled population female gender and increasing age were significantly associated with GALS and REMS positive findings. Among the GALS positive individuals, increasing age was significantly associated with REMS positive status and increasing MHAQ scores, indicating worse function and greater disability. Conclusions: Our pilot study confirms the prevalence of MSK disorders in this study population and predictors of MSK disorders that are comparable to those seen elsewhere in the world. These pilot data can inform the design of future investigations of the determinants of MSK disorders and their impacts on health, livelihood, and well-being in Tanzania.
Nonlinear Analysis by Applying Best Approximation Method in p-Vector Spaces
Authors: YUAN George X.
Published: May 2022

It is known that the class of p-vector spaces (0 < p ≤ 1) is an important generalization of usual norm spaces with rich topological and geometrical structure, but the most tools and general principles with nature in nonlinearity have not been developed yet, the goal of this paper is to develop some useful tools in nonlinear analysisby applying the best approximation approach for the classes of 1-set contractive set-valued mappings in p-vectorspaces. In particular, we first develop the general fixed point theorems of condensing mappings which provideanswer to Schauder conjecture in 1930’s in the affirmative way under the setting of p-vector spaces. Then one bestapproximation result for upper semi-continuous and 1-set contractive set-valued is established, which is used as auseful tool to establish fixed points of non-self set-valued mappings with either inward or outward set conditions,and related various boundary conditions.
The Impact of Sublingual Atropine Eyedrops on Salivary Flow in 7–17-year-old Children During Routine Dental Procedures: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Samuel Shannon , Masih Shaila
Published: May 2022

ObjectiveSalivation is a double-edged sword. It is desired for its protective function to the oral structures but undesirable due to the need for isolation during dental procedures. Atropine sulphate drops are known to decrease salivary secretion due to their muscarinic antagonistic activity. The present study was undertaken to quantitatively assess decrease in salivary secretion in children post administration of atropine sulphate drops sublingually, during routine dental procedures.MethodsA total of 60 children between the ages of 7–17 years were divided into two groups. Case group was given atropine sulphate drops sublingually in a dose dependent manner and control group received distilled water in a similarly calculated dose. The stimulated and unstimulated salivary flow rate was quantitatively assessed at three-time intervals (0min, 60 min and 90mins) along with the heart rate and blood pressures.ResultsIt was found that the unstimulated salivary flow rates in case group dropped by 80.3% and stimulated flow rates reduced by 79.4% in 90 minutes. The study also showed that time of onset of action was within 60 minutes and effect lasted beyond 90 minutes.ConclusionsThe present study translated into proving that the dose administered was adequate to elicit the antisialogogue effect via chosen route in children and the duration of effect was adequate for routine dental procedures.Clinical RelevanceThe duration of effect of atropine drops, the route of administration, and reversibility of effect in children can be interpreted as adopting the said drug as an adjunct to conventional saliva control measures.Trial RegistrationThe present study bearing CTRI number – CTRI/2020/05/025447 was registered with the Clinical Trial Registry- India under ICMR – National Institute of Medical Statistics on 29/05/2020 prospectively.
Epidural and subdural interdural approach to the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus for preserving the laterocavernous sinus in trigeminal schwannoma
Authors: Adachi Kazuhide , Hasegawa Mituhiro , Hirose Yuichi
Published: May 2022

Evacuation of middle fossa trigeminal schwannomas (TS) warrants a subtemporal interdural approach through the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus (CS). The dura comprises the dura propria, which follows the trigeminal nerve and becomes the epineurium, and periosteal layer. The interdural approach involves peeling off the dura propria and exposing the epineural sheath. The venous route around the CS is often obstructed due to TS progression. The interdural approach based on venous route preservation remains to be discussed. The laterocavernous sinus (LCS) is formed in these layers, draining to either the medial or lateral route. In the lateral route, the LCS drains to the pterygoid plexus via the middle cranial fossa foramen. Exposure of the interdural space disturbs the lateral route’s venous flow. We describe an operative strategy for venous route preservation in the TS via the LCS lateral route. The venous route can be preserved by peeling off the dura propria from the posterior end of the foramen ovale short of the venous drainage route to the pterygoid plexus epidurally and then cutting from the middle cranial fossa dura posterior to the venous route subdurally to the exposed interdural space. This technique helps in avoiding postoperative venous complications.
The Association of Genitourinary Cancer Among Patients with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Unique Pattern in a Tertiary Care Saudi Cohort.
Authors: Seyam Raouf , Chaer Kenan Abou , Abouelkhair Ahmed , Almouh Arwa , Alzahrani Othman , Alghafees Mohammad , Alhamidi Razan A. , Al-Gonaim Ali , Al-Hussain Turki , Amin Tarek Mahmoud , Altaweel Waleed
Published: May 2022

Purpose
The gastrointestinal tract's most commonly occurring primary mesenchymal tumor is the gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). However, few cases worldwide were reported associated with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Therefore, we aimed to identify the association of genitourinary tumors in patients with GIST in our tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia.
Methods
We identified all patients in the pathology department database with the diagnosis of GIST. We excluded duplicate and recurrent cases. We examined patients’ files for the presence of RCC, adrenal tumors, or other genitourinary cancer.
Results
From 2003 to 2022, 170 patients had a histopathologic diagnosis of primary GIST, 100 men and 70 women, median age of 63 (± 15.5) years at the time of diagnosis. The site of primary GIST was gastric 103, small bowel 43, mesenteric 5, omentum/peritoneum 7, abdomen 4, isolated adrenal 1, and other 7. Eight patients had associated genitourinary cancer. Three patients had RCC (two clear cell RCC and one radiologic diagnosis only), three had adrenal tumors (one adrenal carcinoma, one an isolated adrenal GIST and one pheochromocytoma), and two had a tumor invading the urinary bladder. Although the cohort included 63 men aged 60 years old or above (median 71 ± 8.7 years, range 60–94), none demonstrated clinical prostatic carcinoma.
Conclusion
We report the rare association between GIST tumors and primary genitourinary cancer, mainly RCC and adrenal tumors. Also, we identified a secondary invasion of the urinary bladder. Unlike the reported series, none of the older male patients had clinical prostate cancer.
Selenium nanoparticles reduce cardiomyocyte apoptosis in Ascites Syndrome in Broiler Chickens via the ATF6-DR5 signaling pathway
Authors: Liu xin , Yang Xiaoqi , KYEIN SAN LOON , Fu Yang , Liu Jiaqi , Peng Yuxuan , Zhang Jiabin , Zhang Mengdi , Zhou Donghai
Published: May 2022

Broiler ascites syndrome (AS) is one of the main diseases threatening the health of broilers. It is well-documented that Myocardial hypertrophy and failure is one of the critical mechanisms in broiler ascites syndrome, and preventing cardiac hypertrophy and failure to cardioprotection may be one of the targets for lowering the incidence of broiler ascites syndrome. Nano-selenium has received a lot of attention in the biomedical field in recent years due to its unique physicochemical properties and potential applications in drug development and targeted therapy. The antioxidant capabilities of nano-selenium have been demonstrated to inhibit apoptosis. To investigate the impact of nano-selenium on broiler chicken heart injury caused by broiler ascites syndrome, we created a broiler chicken cardiomyocyte apoptosis model and a broiler chicken ascites syndrome model. Pretreatment of broiler cardiomyocytes with nano-selenium reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis caused by hydrogen peroxide, according to our findings. Furthermore, nano-selenium supplementation with broiler chickens' diets that inactivated the endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling system (ATF6-DR5). The current study sought to demonstrate that nano-selenium protects injured myocardium in a broiler ascites model, and the proposed mechanism is linked to the ATF6-DR5 signaling pathway, opening up new avenues for medication development to prevent and treat broiler ascites disease.
Long-COVID in Scotland Study: a nationwide, population cohort study
Authors: Pell Jill , Hastie Claire , Lowe David , McAuley Andrew , Winter Andrew , Mills Nicholas , Black Corri , Scott Janet , O'Donnell Catherine , Blane David , Browne Susan , Ibbotson Tracy
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUNDWith increasing numbers of people infected with SARS-CoV-2, a better understanding of long-COVID is required to inform health and social care support.METHODSA nationwide, ambidirectional, population cohort was constructed of adults in Scotland with a positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test from April 2020 to May 2021 and a matched, never infected comparison group. Recovery status, symptoms, quality of life, impaired daily activities, hospitalization and death were ascertained via repeated self-completed questionnaires, at 6, 12 and 18-months follow-up, and linkage to hospitalization and death records.RESULTSThe cohort comprised 31,486 symptomatic and 1,795 asymptomatic infected individuals, and 62,957 never infected individuals. Of the former, 1,856 (6%) had not recovered and 13,350 (42%) only partially. Lack of recovery was associated with severe (hospitalized) infection, older age, female sex, deprivation, respiratory disease, depression and multimorbidity. Twenty-four persistent symptoms were independently associated with previous infection including breathlessness (OR 3.44, 95% CI 3.29–3.59), palpitations (OR 2.51, OR 2.37–2.67), chest pain (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.97–2.24), and confusion (OR 2.93, 95% CI 2.78–3.08). Pre-infection vaccination was associated with reduced risk of seven symptoms. Previous symptomatic infection was also associated with poorer quality of life (EQ-5D median 75 vs 80, p < 0.001) and impairment across all daily activities. Asymptomatic infection was not associated with adverse outcomes.CONCLUSIONSThe sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection are wide-ranging and not explained by confounding. The risk of long-COVID is greater following severe infections requiring hospitalization and absent following asymptomatic infection, whilst pre-infection vaccination may be protective.
Exact solutions of Fractional Maxwell hybrid nanofluid flow model using Integral transforms
Authors: Elkott Ibrahim , Latif M.S. Abdel , El-Lalla I. L. , Kader A. H. Abdel
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we obtain exact solutions of a system of fractional partial differential equations (FPDEs) which describe natural convection heat transfer of a specific engine oil in oscillating vertical cylinder. The closed form solutions for the velocity and temperature profiles are obtained using Laplace and finite Hankel transforms. A closed form formula for the Nusselt number is obtained. The effects of the Prandtl number and the order of the fractional derivative on the temperature profile and the Nusselt number are discussed using some figures. The change in the velocity profile with the Prandtl number, the Grashof number, and the order of the fractional derivative is investigated.
Changes in pain during a depressive episode and relationship to cytokine levels in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Dahl Johan , Ormstad Heidi , Aass Hans Christian Dalsbotten , Malt Ulrik Fredrik , de Ole A. Andreassen
Published: May 2022

Background
Depressed patients have an increased incidence of pain. A pathophysiological connection between depression and pain is still not revealed. Immunological activation has been found in both depression and pain. There are few studies of pain and immune activation in patients with depression, without inflammatory and autoimmune disorders
Methods
This is a naturalistic follow-up study of 50 patients with a major depressive disorder (MDD) depressive episode, without any inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. We have previously reported on the relationship between depression and cytokine levels. In this study we obtained data of depression, pain and cytokine levels before and after 12 weeks of depression treatment. All patients were medication-free at inclusion.
Results
At inclusion three out of four patients experienced pain, and the pain scores correlated with the depression scores. After treatment, as depression was relieved, the pain scores dropped significantly and were no longer correlated to the depression scores. There were no correlations between pain scores and cytokine levels. Pain level at inclusion did not correlate with depression treatment outcome.
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that pain is a feature of depression. Pain levels and cytokine values didn`t correlate. Pain at inclusion did not predict depression treatment outcome.
Estimation of Post-therapeutic Liver Reserve Capacity Using 99mTc-GSA Scintigraphy Prior to Carbon-ion Radiotherapy for Liver Tumors
Authors: Yamazaki Kana , Nishii Ryuichi , Mizutani Yoichi , Makishima Hirokazu , Kaneko Takashi , Isobe Yoshiharu , Terada Tamasa , Tamura Kentaro , Imabayashi Etsuko , Tani Toshiaki , Kobayashi Masato , Wakatsuki Masaru , Tsuji Hiroshi , Higashi Tatsuya
Published: May 2022

Background: There is currently no established imaging method for assessing liver reserve capacity prior to carbon-ion radiotherapy (CIRT) for liver tumors. In order to perform safe CIRT, it is essential to estimate the post-therapeutic residual reserve capacity of the liver. Purpose: To evaluate the ability of pre-treatment 99m Tc-GSA scintigraphy to accurately estimate the residual liver reserve capacity in patients treated with CIRT for liver tumors. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 50 patients who were performed CIRT for liver tumors between December 2018 and September 2020 and underwent 99m Tc-GSA scintigraphy before and 3 months after CIRT, Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI within 1 month before CIRT were evaluated. The maximal removal rate of 99m Tc-GSA (GSA-Rmax) was analyzed for the evaluation of pre-treatment liver reserve capacity. Then, the GSA-Rmax of the estimated residual liver (GSA-RL) was calculated using liver SPECT images fused with the Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI. GSA-RL before CIRT and GSA-Rmax at 3 months after CIRT were compared using non-parametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test and linear regression analysis. Results: Overall, 50 patients were included (mean age ± standard deviation, 73 years ± 11; range, 29–89 years, 35 men). The median GSA-RL was 0.393 [range, 0.057–0.729] mg/min, the median GSA-Rmax after CIRT was 0.369 [range, 0.037–0.780] mg/min ( P = .40). The linear regression equation representing the relationship between the GSA-RL and GSA-Rmax after CIRT was y = 0.05 + 0.84x (R 2 = 0.67, P < .0001). There was a positive correlation between the estimated and actual post-treatment values for all patients, as well as in the group with impaired liver reserve capacity (y = - 0.02 + 1.09x (R 2 = 0.62, P = .0005)). Conclusions: 99m Tc-GSA scintigraphy has potential clinical utility for estimating the residual liver reserve capacity in patients undergoing carbon-ion radiotherapy for liver tumors. Clinical Trial registration: UMIN000038328, https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000043545
Combination effect of smoking conditions and Dunaliella salina as natural antioxidant on biochemical characters of stored Sander lucioperca fillets
Authors: Bouriga N. , Mili S. , Troudi D. , Atitallah A. Ben , Bahri W. Rjiba , Bejaoui S. , Quignard J.-P. , trabelsi M
Published: May 2022

Sander lucioperca is a fresh water fish characterized with its remarkable nutritional value. Thus, smoking improves sensory and microbiological characteristics. Therefore smoking processes is associated to alterations in some physicochemical fish properties. The object of this study is to evaluate the combined effects of two different processes of smoking (cold and hot) and natural antioxidants obtained from the microalgea Dunaliella salina administrated at two graded concentrations (+0.5pp and +1pp) on the biochemical quality and shelf life of Sander lucioperca fillets were investigated during 1, 20 and 90 days of storage.Smoking Sander lucioperca using Dunaliella salina extract increases polyphenols content in the fillets smoked fish. This natural antioxidant leads to a better preservation for this smoked fish. Dunaliella salina increases of the amounts of lipids and decreases TVBN, PV, TBARS and FFA in cold and hot smoked fillets. Therefore, combined effects of two different processes of smoking (cold and hot) and natural antioxidants could be a promising technique to preserve the Sander lucioperca fillets quality.
Characterization and associated risk factors of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in autoimmune related diseases: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhou Liling , Shen Guifen , Li Ling , Zhong Jixin , Dong Lingli
Published: May 2022

Objectives: As a rare but serious disease with high mortality, the features and risk factors of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) in underlying autoimmune related diseases (AIRDs) are not well characterized.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of TTP patients with AIRDs who were hospitalized in Tongji Hospital from January 2017 to August 2021. 120 AIRDs patients with severe thrombocytopenia were included as controls. Statistical analysis involved Student's t test, Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, and univariate logistic regression.Results: The prevalence of TTP in AIRD patients was 1.541‰, with a high mortality of 32.26% in this study. Lower platelet count, higher LDH level, higher cTnI level, more frequent proteinuria and coma on admission were observed in non-survivors when compared with survivors. History of thrombocytopenia, antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) positivity, neurologic symptoms, anti-SSB positivity, proteinuria and hematuria were associated with TTP in AIRD patients who had severe thrombocytopenia. Levels of IBIL, LDH, Hb, cTnI, and D-Dimer had good capabilities to discriminate TTP from severe thrombocytopenia in patients with AIRD.Conclusion: AIRD-TTP is a rare emergency with a high mortality rate of 32.26%. Organ damages, severities of thrombocytopenia and hemolysis on admission were associated with the outcome of AIRD-TTP patients. Levels of IBIL, LDH, Hb, cTnI, and D-Dimer may provide important information for the diagnosis of AIRD-TTP.
Application of Factorial and Binomial identities in Computing and Cybersecurity
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: May 2022

This paper focuses on the application of factorial and binomial identities in computing, communication, and cybersecurity in connection with the symmetric and asymmetric encryptions. We can use the binomial identities and theorem in factorials as an effective security algorithm to protect the computing systems, programs, and networks.
The relationship between the severity of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
Authors: Dadkhah Romina , Baradaran Hamid Reza , Almasi-Dooghaee Mostafa , Janmohammadi Farahnaz , Shalbafan Mohammadreza , Heidari Amirreza , jazayeri mina
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Given the prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD), we investigated the association between the severity of OCD and Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia.Method: This case-control study included patients referred to the dementia clinic of Firoozgar Hospital and the Brain and Cognition Clinic, who had a Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) test score less than 26 based on assessments of known Alzheimer's or frontotemporal dementia. The control group also consisted of people who referred to the neurology clinic without complaining of psychiatric disorders. For evaluating the severity of OCD we used the Yale – Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) questionnaire. Results: This study was performed on 13 patients with Alzheimer's disease, 13 patients with FTD and 26 healthy controls. The MOCA score in the two groups of patients was significantly lower than the control group (P <0.001) and is was not statistically significant between the two groups (P> 0.05). The severity of OCD was significantly higher in FTD )25.76±7.16 (and Alzheimer's patients )18.15±9.50( compared to the control group (7.07±5.70) (P <0.001). Also, the severity of OCD was was higher in the FTD group compared to the Alzheimer's group (P = 0.03). Conclusion: Thus, the severity of OCD in the group of FTD and Alzheimer's patients was higher compared to the control group and also the severity of OCD was higher in the FTD group compared to the Alzheimer's group.
Surgical Approach to Pediatric Mediastinal Masses Based on Imaging Characteristics
Authors: Young Stephanie , Rettig R. Luke , Hutchinson Ian V. , Sutcliffe Michael G. , Lee Jennifer A. , Sydorak Roman M.
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND: Pediatric mediastinal masses may be resected using an open or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) approach. We sought to define the preoperative imaging findings predicting amenability to VATS. METHODS: This multicenter retrospective study of pediatric patients undergoing either VATS or open surgical mediastinal mass resection between 2008-2018 evaluated the preoperative imaging descriptors associated with VATS. Postoperative endpoints included length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission, 90-day mortality and complication rates. RESULTS: Mediastinal mass resection was performed in 33 patients. Median tumor size was 6 cm, and 51.5% had anterior mediastinal tumors. The 23 (69.7%) patients who underwent VATS were significantly older (144 months vs 32, P=0.01) and larger (33.6 kg vs 13.8 P=0.03). Preoperative imaging characteristics in VATS included “well circumscribed”, “smooth margins” and “cystic”, while the open surgery group were “heterogeneous” and “coarse calcification”. The open group had more germ cell tumors (60.0% vs 13.0%, P=0.16) but no difference in malignancy. VATS patients had shorter LOS (2 days vs 6.5, P=0.24). Readmission, complication and mortality rates were similar.CONCLUSION: Pediatric patients with apparent malignancy frequently underwent open resection compared with the thoracoscopic group, although final malignant pathology was similar. Equivalent outcomes and shorter LOS should favor a minimally invasive approach.LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III
Clinical utility of chromosomal microarray analysis and whole exome sequencing in fetuses with oligohydramnios
Authors: Shi Xiaomei , Ding Hongke , Li Chen , Liu Ling , Yu LiHua , Zhu Juan , wu jing
Published: May 2022

Objective: To evaluate the clinical utility of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and whole exome sequencing (WES) in fetuses with oligohydramnios.Methods: In this retrospective study, 126 fetuses with oligohydramnios at our center from 2018 to 2021 were reviewed. Results of CMA and WES were analyzed.Results: One hundred and twenty-four cases had CMA performed and 32 cases had WES performed. The detection rate of pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) copy number variants (CNVs) by CMA was 1.6% (2/124). WES revealed P/LP variants in 21.8% (7/32) of fetuses. Six (85.7%, 6/7) fetuses showed an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Three (42.9%, 3/7) variants were involved in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which are the known genetic causes of autosomal recessive renal tubular dysgenesis (ARRTD).Conclusion: CMA has low diagnostic utility for oligohydramnios. WES is an efficient approach and should be recommended in cases of oligohydramnios.
Reproductive performance of hair ewes and rams implanted with Melatonin previous to the anestrus season in Northwest Mexico
Authors: Leyva-Corona José Clemente , Angulo-Valenzuela Norberto Ismael , Laborin-Escalante Blanca Margarita , Gastelum-Delgado Miguel Angel , Silva-Ávila N. Jahzeel , Luna-Nevárez Pablo , Aragón-López Carlos Eduardo , Sánchez-Castro Miguel Angel , Pablos Marcela Ivone Morales
Published: May 2022

Ovine reproductive behavior depends on annual photoperiodic cycle and its impact on endogenous melatonin secretion. In this regard, exogenous melatonin administration previous to the physiological anestrus period could modify the reproductive performance of sheep. Two independent studies were performed to evaluate such hypothesis in hair sheep implanted with melatonin prior to the anestrus season in northwest Mexico. Study 1 involved 15 rams assigned to one of three treatments receiving 0mg (n=5), 18mg (n=5) or 36mg (n=5) of melatonin subcutaneously. Study variables were measured monthly since implantation (d0) and included testosterone concentration, scrotal circumference, mass motility, individual motility, and sperm concentration. Study 2 included 50 ewes assigned to one of two treatments receiving 0mg (n=25) or 18mg (n=25) of melatonin subcutaneously. In ewes, progesterone concentration and the frequency of females in anestrus were measured during the implantation (-30d), as well as at the beginning (0d) and at the end (45d) of the mating period, while pregnancy rate was determined by ultrasonography 45d after. Continuous variables were analyzed using a mixed effects model considering treatment, time, and the treatment by time interaction as fixed effects. Animal nested within treatment was the random effect. Binary variables were analyzed using the chi-square test. In males, melatonin improved testosterone and sperm concentrations (P<0.05), while in females, a 28% higher pregnancy rate was observed in implanted ewes (P<0.05). Although melatonin enhanced reproductive parameters in both sexes, its exogenous administration previous to the anestrus season in northwest Mexico could be more beneficial and cost effective in rams.
Functional genetic variants in circRNA regions associated with susceptibility and prognosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Cheng Yifei , Ben Shuai , Chen Silu , Zhao Lingyan , Shao Wei , Li Shuwei , Cheng Gong
Published: May 2022

Objective: To investigate the association of circRNAs and related genetic variants with PCa risk or prognosis. Methods: Using the MiOncoCirc database, we compared the expression of circRNAs between 25 matched PCa and adjacent normal tissues to identify risk-associated circRNAs. We also identified survival-associated circRNAs by comparing their expression between 35 castration-resistant PCa (CRPC) and 25 localized PCa tissues. We then used logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models to evaluate the association of genetic variants in candidate circRNAs with PCa risk and prognosis based on the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial, respectively. CircRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions and RBPs of circRNAs were predicted through in silico analyses.Results: Rs11973492 on circHIBADH was a significant risk-associated variant (OR = 1.20, P = 7.06×10-4 in the dominant model). Furthermore, rs11679306 on circSATB2 was a survival-associated variant (HR = 1.32, P = 1.14×10-3 in the dominant model). CircHIBADH might sponge mir-107 thus regulating the expression levels of 29 mRNAs enriched in chemical carcinogenesis and other pathways, and could also bind several RPBs enriched in the RNA splicing pathway. Additionally, circSATB2 sponged mir-150-5p and regulated six mRNAs enriched in the extracellular matrix organization process.Conclusion: Our findings imply that genetic variants might affect the formation of circRNAs and influence the binding of circRNAs to miRNAs or RBPs, thus altering their biological functions in PCa oncogenesis and development.
Twelve-year changes in palm populations from a tropical lowland forest in the Philippines
Authors: Pasion Bonifacio O. , Duya Mariano Roy M. , Ong Perry S. , Fernando Edwino S.
Published: May 2022

Arecaceae (Palmae) is an ecologically and economically important family characteristic of the vegetation in tropical and subtropical regions, with at least 125 species occurring in the Philippines, most of them endemics. We monitored changes in stem density, mortality and recruitment of palm populations for twelve years within a 16-ha Forest Dynamic Plot located in northern Luzon, the Philippines. We recorded a total of 4,060 stems, dominated by Pinanga insignis (46%) and P. maculata (34%), followed by Caryota cumingii (19%), and a few stems (< 1%) of Orania decipiens and Areca whitfordii. Half (51%) of the initially recorded stems in the 2004 census died after the 2016 census, while an additional 1,086 (36%) stems were recorded in the same period. Overall palm population declined with the decreasing populations of P. insignis and P. maculata due to higher mortality than recruitment during the 2004–2010 and 2010–2016 census intervals while C. cumingii population increased in the same period. Regarding topographic position, the stem density of P. maculata is higher in valleys > midslopes > ridges across censuses, higher in valleys and midslopes than ridges for C. cumingii across censuses, and higher in midslopes than valleys for P. insignis during the 2016 census only. Mortality and recruitment were weakly observed along topographic positions between species and across censuses. Our result presents how palm population may change within twelve years with population trends differing between species, indicating the importance of palms in understanding the population dynamics of plant communities in a fast-changing environment.
Missense Variant rs34562254 of TNFRSF13B associated with HCV infection outcomes among Chinese Han Population
Authors: Fan Haozhi , Zhang Jinwei , Tan Weilong , Chen Qiong , Zeng Tian , Zhu Chuankong , Yue Ming
Published: May 2022

Background: In this study we investigated the relationship of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily (TNFSF) 13, and receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) 13B missense mutations with the susceptibility of HCV infection. Methods: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TNFSF13 (rs3803800, rs11552708), and TNFRSF13B (rs34562254) were genotyped in 469 intravenous drug users, 728 hemodialysis patients and 1636 paid blood donors by TaqMan real-time PCR assay. Results: After adjustment for gender, age, ALT level, AST level and route of infection, the results of logistic regression analysis showed that the subjects carried rs34562254 TT mutant homozygous type in TNFRSF13B were more likely to be infected by HCV compared to those with rs34562254 CC wild homozygous type (additive model: OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.07-1.37, P = 0.002). And the effect of the risk allele (rs34562254-T) is more evident in female, elder (≥50), paid blood donors, lower ALT level (≤40 U/L) and lower ALT level (≤40 U/L) subgroup. The minimum free energy (MFE) of the centroid secondary structure for the mutant T allele of rs34562254 was higher than that of the wild C allele (-38.90 vs.-45.60 kcal/mol) with the RNAfold web servers. Conclusions: Taken together our study suggest that the missense variant rs34562254 were significantly associated with HCV infection by impacting host the TNFRSF13B gene transcription level among Chinese Han population.
Networks of international football: communities, evolution and globalization of the game
Authors: Li Yang , Mateos Gonzalo
Published: May 2022

As the most popular sport around the globe, the game of football has recently intrigued much research interest to explore and distill useful and appealing information from the sport. Network science and graph-centric methods have been previously applied to study the importance of football players and teams. In this paper, for the first time we study the macroscopic evolution of the football society from a complex network point of view. Football game records within a time window of over a century were collected and expressed in a graph format, where participant teams are represented by graph nodes and the games between them are the graph edges. We carry out community detection and temporal analysis to reveal the dynamic features and the community structures embedded within the football network, offering the evidence of a continuously expanding football society. Spatio-temporal analysis is also implemented to unveil the temporal states that represent distinct development stages in the football history. Our analysis suggests that the evolution of the game receives considerable impact not only from major sport events, but also from multiple social and political incidents. The game of football and its evolution reflect significant historical transitions and turning points, and can provide a novel perspective for the study of the worldwide globalization process.
Translationally controlled tumor protein restores memory and synaptic function lost in animal models of dementia
Authors: Na EunJung , Jeon Yejin , Kim Hyunju , Kim Hye-Sun , Lee Kyunglim , Kim Hwa-Jung
Published: May 2022

Background: The diverse roles of ubiquitously present translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) have been well delineated in several organs, but its possible function in the brain, especially with regard to memory function, has not received much attention. This study describes the effects of TCTP on mice with memory impaired by scopolamine (SCO) administration. Specifically, the memory and synaptic functions of 7- and 12-month-old SCO-treated wild mice (WT) were compared with those of TCTP-overexpressing (TG) and TCTP knocked down (KD) mice. Methods: Passive-avoidance tasks were performed on WT, TG and KD mice for 4 weeks after intraperitoneal injection with SCO (1 mg/kg) or saline (CON). After completion of the behavioral studies, the hippocampi were collected and their PSD-95, synapsin-1 and synaptophysin contents analyzed by western blocking and immunohistochemical analyses, and compared with those of 5xfamilial Alzheimer's disease (5xFAD) mice and postmortem AD patients. Results: The SCO-induced memory impairment was restored in TCTP-TG to that of WT level, but not in KD. Hippocampal expression of PSD-95, synapsin-1, and synaptophysin was increased in TG-SCO but decreased in KD-SCO mice. The decreased levels of TCTP, PSD-95, and synaptophysin were also found in the hippocampi of 5xFAD mice and AD patients. PSD-95 immunoreactivity increased particularly in dentate gyrus and CA1 in TCTP-TG, but reduced in KD. The p-CREB/CREB and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expressions also increased in TCTP-TG but dramatically decreased in KD. Conclusion: TCTP restores damaged memory in mice possibly by increasing synaptic function. Keywords TCTP, transgenic, knockdown, scopolamine-induced dementia, memory, synaptic function, PSD-95, synaptophysin, synapsin-1, CREB, BDNF
The function and possible mechanism of lncRNA LINC00881 in regulating fetal growth restriction
Authors: Tang Ranran , Yang Shanshan , Wen Juan , Zeng Yu , Jiang Hua
Published: May 2022

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were found to play important roles in the pathogenesis of FGR. Herein, we aimed to elucidate the role of LINC00881 in regulating various biological events of FGR.Methods: LINC00881 expression level was examined in the normal pregnancy placentas and FGR patients by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). The assays of CCK8, transwell and flow cytometry were performed to evaluate the functional effects of overexpression and silencing of LINC00881 on the HTR8/SVneo trophoblast cell line. RNA Pull down and immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were futher used to verify the putative relationship between LINC00881 and its potential target of FSCN1.Findings: LINC00881 expression was signifcantly downregulated in 20 FGR placental tissues compared to 20 healthy placental tissues. LINC00881 overexpression promotes proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of HTR8/SVneo trophoblast cell line in vitro. Downregulation of LINC00881 leads to the opposite results. RNA pull‑down assay and RIP assays reveals FSCN1 as a possible target of LINC00881. Futhermore, FSCN1 overexpression eliminated the effect of LINC00881 overexpression in HTR-8 cells.
Serum IL-23 and IL-10 as predictors of disease progression and severity in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Smail Shukur Wasman , Babaei Esmaeil , Amin Kawa , Abdulahad Wayel H.
Published: May 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
WITHDRAWN: Effect of nano-scale grain dimensions on the ballistic and diffusive phonon transport properties of graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Chen Junjie
Published: May 2022

A phonon is a unit of vibrational energy that arises from oscillating atoms within a crystal. The study of phonons is an important part of condensed matter physics. The present study relates to the ballistic and diffusive phonon transport properties of graphene nanoribbons deposited on a silicon carbide substrate. The two-dimensional crystal has dimensions comparable to or smaller than the mean free path of phonons. The effect of nano-scale grain dimensions on the phonon transport properties of the two-dimensional crystal was investigated theoretically and experimentally. The characteristics of ballistic and diffusive heat conduction in the two-dimensional crystal were investigated. The edge-scattering effects arising from the crystal edges were determined in order to increase phonon transport and reduce phonon scattering in the two-dimensional crystal. The results indicated that phonons play a major role in the ballistic and diffusive phonon transport properties of graphene nanoribbons. Heat conduction is mediated by the combination of propagation and collisions of phonons. The heat flux is carried almost entirely by phonon vibrations. The transport mode of phonons depends upon the length scales of the two-dimensional crystal. As the dimensions of the two-dimensional crystal decrease, there is a transition from the diffusive transport mode to the ballistic transport mode. The method of dimensional and structural design is effective to reduce phonon scattering and increase phonon transport in the two-dimensional crystal, thereby allowing the thermal conductivity approaching as closely as possible the theoretical limit.
Prevalence of Chronic Overlapping Pain Conditions in Adult Patients With Cancer
Authors: Marriott Morgan C. , Smith Michael A.
Published: May 2022

Purpose: Pain is experienced by over half of patients with cancer. Despite effective treatments being available, many patients with cancer related pain remain undertreated. Chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) are recognized as a set of disorders in varying combinations. Cancer pain can effectively be treated with opioids; however, COPCs do not respond well to this treatment. The purpose of this study is to describe the prevalence of COPCs in adult patients with cancer. Methods: Patients with any new cancer diagnosis of any stage from 1/1/2020 to 11/1/2021 were included. All patients included were seen at Michigan Medicine and were over 18 years of age. The primary outcome was a diagnosis of a COPC, which were captured using validated ICD-10 codes and date of diagnosis. All data was collected through Data Direct and EMERSE and analyzed using descriptive statistics.Results: The final analysis included 2638 patients. Most patients had stage I cancer (44.3%), while 19.6% had metastatic disease. A COPC was diagnosed in 501 patients (19%). Of patients with COPCs, 69% were diagnosed before cancer, while 20% were diagnosed after cancer. Low back pain was the most common COPC (55.5%) followed by migraine (13.8%).Conclusion: We identified that 19% of patients with cancer also had COPCs, the majority were diagnosed before cancer. By identifying the prevalence of COPCs in patients with cancer we can develop studies evaluating if these patients have difference in quality-of-life outcomes related to pain or require different treatment pathways to optimize their pain management.
WITHDRAWN: Essential characteristics of the catalytically supported thermal combustion process in submillimeter-scale heat-recirculating systems
Authors: Chen Junjie
Published: May 2022

The essential characteristics of the catalytically supported thermal combustion process in submillimeter-scale heat-recirculating systems were investigated to gain a greater understanding of the mechanisms of flame stabilization and to gain new insights into how to design the reacting flow systems with improved robustness and stability. Computational fluid dynamics simulations are performed with respect to various factors pertaining to the catalytically supported thermal combustions. Detailed kinetics were used for modeling the catalytically supported thermal combustion system in computational fluid dynamics. Design recommendations are made to improve the overall robustness and stability. The results indicated that catalytically supported thermal combustion surmounts the mass transfer limitation. The catalytically supported thermal combustion can operate very efficiently with low emissions of nitrogen oxides. Catalytically supported thermal combustion is no longer limited by mass transfer as in the case of conventional catalytic combustion, and at the specified operating temperatures the reaction rate is substantially increased beyond the mass transfer limitation. Reaction rates of up to about one hundred or more times the mass transfer limited rate may be attainable. Such high reaction rates permit high fuel space velocities which normally are not obtainable in catalytic reactions. There is no necessity of maintaining fuel-to-air ratios in the flammable range, and consequently loss of combustion due to variations in the fuel-to-air ratio is not the problem it is in conventional combustors. Excess enthalpy combustion can occur in an efficient and rapid manner. The flow velocity is an important factor in determining the performance of the catalytically supported thermal combustion system. Stable operation of the catalytically supported thermal combustion system is limited to a relatively wide flow regime, and the flow velocity is critical to achieving flame stability.