bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Thermohaline Sheet and Its Spatial Structure in the Canada Basin
Authors: Lu Yuan-Zheng , Guo Shuang-Xi , Zhou Sheng-Qi , Song Xue-Long , Huang Peng-Qi
Published: July 2022

Thirty-four individual thermohaline sheets are identified at depths of 170–400 m in the Canada Basin of the Arctic Ocean by using the hydrographical data measured with the Ice-Tethered Profilers (ITPs) between August 2005 and October 2009. Each sheet is well determined because the salinity within itself remains very stable and the associated salinity anomaly is markedly smaller than the salinity jump between neighboring sheets. These thermohaline sheets are nested between the Lower Halocline Water (LHW) and Atlantic Water (AW) with lateral coherence of hundreds of kilometers and thickness varying from several to dozens of meters. The physical properties, including temperature, heat flux, and vertical turbulent diffusivity, in the sheet are found to be averagely associated with the AW propagation. Spatially, the thermohaline sheet is in a bowl-shaped distribution, which is deepest in the basin center and gradually becomes shallower toward the periphery. The interaction between the LHW and AW could be demonstrated through the property variances in the sheets. The temperature variances in the upper and lower sheets are correlated with the LHW and AW, respectively, transited at the 15th sheet, whereas the depth variance in the sheet is strongly correlated with the LHW. It is proposed that the sheet spatial distribution is mainly dominated by the Ekman convergence with the Beaufort Gyre, slightly modulated with the AW intrusion.

Significance Statement

The diffusive convection staircases, composed of consecutive steps containing thick mixed layers and relatively thin interfaces, are prominent between the Lower Halocline Water (LHW) and the Atlantic Water (AW) throughout the Canada Basin. This sheet-like structure is in a bowl shape with lateral coherence over hundreds of kilometers. It is proposed that the distribution of the thermohaline sheet is mainly dominated by the Ekman convergence with Beaufort Gyre, as well as the AW intrusion. The present method of thermohaline-sheet identification would have more implications beyond this work. Since the thermohaline sheet remains mostly stable and coherent on a very large spatial–temporal scale, it might play a similar role as the water mass analysis in numerous applications, e.g., climate change.
Mixing Pathways in Simple Box Models
Authors: Qu Lixin , Hetland Robert D. , Schlichting Dylan
Published: July 2022

Tracer variance budgets can be used to estimate bulk mixing in a control volume. For example, simple, analytical, bulk formulations of salt mixing, defined here as the destruction of salinity variance, can be found for estuaries with a riverine source of freshwater and a two-layer exchange flow at the mouth using salinity as a representative tracer. For a steady case, the bulk salt mixing M can be calculated as , where Sin and Sout are the representative salinities in the estuarine exchange flow, and QR and Qin are the river and landward volume fluxes, respectively. The bulk salt mixing M can be considered as the sum of mixing pathways, where each pathway has a mixing of Q(ΔS)2, where Q is the volume transport and ΔS is the salinity difference across the pathway. For the estuary case, one mixing path is associated with the river inflow, and the other is associated with the inflow of salty, oceanic water. This concept of linking mixing to input–output pathways is extended, in simple box models, from estuaries to scenarios with multiple inputs/outputs, as might be found in a complex estuarine/fjord network, in a region on a continental shelf, or any other control volume with multiple exchanges. This approach allows for the estimation of the relative contributions of each input–output pathway to the total mixing within a control volume.
Nocturnal Convection Initiation over Inland South China during a Record-Breaking Heavy Rainfall Event
Authors: Zhang Sijia , Liang Zhaoming , Wang Donghai , Chen Guixing
Published: July 2022

A local long-lived convective system developed at midnight over inland South China, producing record-breaking rainfall in Guangzhou on 7 May 2017. This study examines the physical processes responsible for nocturnal convection initiation (CI) and growth. Observational analyses show that the CI occurs in the warm sector under weakly forced synoptic conditions at 500 hPa, while moderate but nocturnally enhanced low-level southeasterlies with a mesoscale moist tongue at 925 hPa intrude inland from the northern South China Sea. Convection-permitting model results show that mesoscale low-level convergence and increased moisture at the leading edge of the southeasterlies are favorable for CI dynamically and thermodynamically. Local ascent and potential instability are further enhanced by orographic lifting and warm moist air from the urban surface, respectively, which trigger convection in northern Guangzhou. The mesoscale moist tongue of southeasterly flows then meets convectively generated outflows, thereby maintaining strong updrafts and continuously triggering back-building convective cells in eastern Guangzhou. Sensitivity tests are conducted to estimate the relative roles of ambient southeasterly moist tongue and urban thermal effects. The southeasterly moist tongue provides moisture that is crucial for CI, while warm moist air from the urban surface is lifted at the leading edge of the southeasterlies and locally facilitates convection. Therefore, the mesoscale processes of lifting and moistening due to nocturnal southeasterlies and their strong interaction with the local factors (orographic lifting, urban heating, and cold-pool-related ascent) provide the sustained lifting and instability crucial for triggering the local long-lived convective systems. The multiscale processes shed light on the understanding of the nocturnal warm-sector heavy rainfall inland.
Imaging Features of Lymphoepithelial-Like Carcinoma of the Salivary Glands
Authors: Zhang Meng , Ye Jingzhi , Li Hongyi , Huang Peikai , Chen Jun , Lin Fenghuang , Xiao Mengqiang
Published: July 2022

Objective:

Lymphoepithelial-like carcinoma of the salivary glands (LELCSG) is a rare tumour of unknown aetiology. No studies have reported the imaging features of primary LELCSG.

Methods:

The clinical information and imaging features of eight patients with LELCSG were reviewed. Computed tomography (n = 4 patients) and magnetic resonance imaging (n = 4 patients) features were analysed by two radiologists to identify the location, number, size, shape, boundary, signal intensity and enhancement of LELCSG.

Results:

The study included four women and four men, and the mean size of the tumours was 32.88 ± 3.41 mm (range, 27–38 mm). The tumours affected the parotid gland in six cases and the submandibular gland in two cases. The eight cases were evaluated by radiologists. All tumours were lobulated; three had clear edges and five had blurred edges. There was no necrosis in six tumours, while two tumours exhibited slight necrosis without bleeding. All eight tumours showed multiple nodular changes and extensive fusion. Four tumours with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were isointense or slightly hyperintense on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) and obvious homogeneous enhancement on contrasted enhanced T1WI scan, while slightly hyperintense on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI). The other four lesions were isodense on computed tomography (CT) scan. The degree of enhancement varied among the eight tumours. The necrotic zones of the eight tumours did not exhibit any enhancement.

Conclusions:

LELCSG is a lobulated, multi-nodular tumour, with some fused nodules. LELCSG lesions showed isointensity or slight hyperintensity on T1WI MRI, slight hyperintensity on T2WI MRI and isodense on CT scan. Larger tumours may exhibit some necrosis, but the necrotic cysts were relatively rare. Uniform enhancement was observed in non-necrotic areas on enhanced CT and MRI scan. The multi-nodular feature may be valuable for diagnosis.
Impact of COVID-19 on services for students with visual impairment: Experiences and lessons from the field
Authors: Correa-Torres Silvia M , Muthukumaran Anitha
Published: July 2022

With schools under intense pressure to deliver high-quality instruction during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, education in the 2020–2021 school year was different than typical, especially for students with disabilities including those who are visually impaired (VI). Schools all over the world struggled to figure out the best ways to provide services for students and meet their needs, from fully online learning to hybrid education and in-person school. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the experiences of professionals who work with students with VI during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fifteen educators of students with VI participated in this study. Participants were asked to share their experiences when providing services to students who are VI during the first 9 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings for this study identified four major themes as follows: (1) changes in delivery of services; (2) challenges in teaching and learning; (3) opportunities for teaching and learning; and (4) learnings to apply in the future. Recommendations for professionals working with students who are VI highlighting the importance of professional development training on technologies and maintaining strong connection with families will be discussed. Suggestions for personnel preparation programs and school districts on how to support pre-service and in-service educators of students with VI will also be addressed.
Results From a Campus Population Survey of Near Misses, Crashes, and Falls While E-Scooting, Walking, and Bicycling
Authors: Sanders Rebecca L. , Nelson Trisalyn A.
Published: July 2022

Dockless e-scooters were used for 86 million trips in the United States in 2019, indicating great potential as a new transportation mode in U.S. cities and on university campuses. Yet, little is known about how e-scooter users interact with people walking, bicycling, and driving. Although several studies have examined e-scooter injuries reported in hospital data, transportation-related near misses are chronically understudied in general, and even more so for this newer mode of transportation. In this paper we present the results of an online survey of 1,256 university staff (22% response rate) in Tempe, AZ. Using a single population, we compared the prevalence of self-reported incidents and injuries among those who use e-scooters, walk, and bicycle. Our results indicated a higher percentage of respondents reported incidents associated with walking (25%) than e-scooting (11%) or bicycling (9%), but e-scooter users were the most likely to report incidents resulting in a crash. E-scooter users were also more likely to report issues related to pavement, equipment, or losing control, whereas people walking and bicycling were more likely to report conflicts with other roadway users. Our findings suggest important areas for policy and infrastructure innovation, including prioritizing separate space for e-scooters to mitigate conflicts with pedestrians, and continuing to evolve rider training and speed governance to help keep e-scooter users safe. Other findings underscore the importance of measuring near misses to develop a comprehensive picture of transportation safety.
Change in Severity of Mental Disorder of Remand Prisoners: An Observational Group-Based Trajectory Study
Authors: Jones Roland M. , Gerritsen Cory , Maheandiran Margaret , Penney Stephanie , Simpson Alexander I.F.
Published: July 2022

Background

Mental disorder is common among prisoners; however, little is known about how illness severity changes during incarceration, and especially to what extent there are different trajectories of change.

Aims

Our aims were to investigate trajectories of illness severity among male and female inmates with serious mental disorders, and to investigate whether clinical or demographic variables are associated with different trajectories.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective cohort study of newly remanded inmates who had three or more serial measures of illness severity as measured by psychiatrists using the Clinical Global Impression—Corrections (CGI-C), and used group-based trajectory modelling to identify trajectories. We investigated whether clinical and demographic variables were associated with different groups.

Results

We found an overall reduction in the severity of illness (mean change in CGI-C score −0.74, SD 1.5), with women showing greater improvement than men. We identified three distinct trajectories among men and three among women, all showing improvement in illness severity. Approximately 15% of the entire cohort had full resolution of symptoms, whereas the remainder showed partial improvement. Women, younger inmates, and those with substance use disorders were more likely to have full resolution of symptoms.

Conclusions

Although most prisoners showed improvement, and a small proportion had full resolution of symptoms, a significant number continued to have moderately severe symptoms. There is a need for comprehensive treatment within the detention centre, but also a need for transfer to hospital for those with severe symptoms as improvement within the correctional setting tends to be modest.
Photovoltaic-driven electrochemical remediation of drilling fluid wastewater with simultaneous hydrogen production
Authors: Dermentzis Konstantinos , Karakosta Kokkoni , Kokkinos Nikolaos , Mitkidou Sophia , Stylianou Marinos , Agapiou Agapios
Published: July 2022

In this work, we studied the application of photovoltaic solar energy for driving the electrochemical processes of electrocoagulation and electrooxidation to remediate drilling fluid wastewater, and simultaneously harvest energy in the form of electrolytic hydrogen gas produced at the cathode. The electrocoagulation was performed with sacrificial aluminium electrodes and electrooxidation with dimensionally stable boron-doped diamond electrodes in batch-wise and continuously operated mode, and their efficiency in both pollutants removal and hydrogen gas production was elucidated. The parameters affecting the efficiency of the applied electrochemical processes, such as applied current density, pH, electroprocessing time and flow rate, were investigated. The electrochemical processing was monitored by measuring the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of treated wastewater. The electrocoagulation treatment conducted with current densities of 30, 60 and 90 mA/cm2 reduced the wastewater COD by about 67%, whereas the electrooxidation treatment at the same conditions yielded a COD removal of over 95%. The amount of produced hydrogen was 171 L/g COD removed from treated wastewater.
Evolution of grease lubrication regimes and surface damage during reciprocation-oscillation transformation
Authors: Han Yiming , Wang Jing , Li Weimin , Li Haijiang , Pu Jibin
Published: July 2022

The responses of two kinds of lithium greases during the transformation from reciprocating motion to oscillation were firstly studied on a ball-on-disk test rig using optical interferometric technique. Although in pure rolling motion, after a long run a thin film lubrication (TFL) state is formed on the track, in simple sliding motion an interior boundary lubrication (BL) region is quickly developed in the contact after only tens of working cycles and the region increases with the increase of the radius stroke ratio. Microstructure of the thickener fiber makes a difference in the formation of the inside BL region.

By an SRV tester, grease lubricated wear tests were carried out using samples with smooth surfaces, textured surfaces and textured + diamond like carbon (DLC) coated surfaces in simple sliding reciprocating and oscillating motion. It is seen that lubrication using grease with thinner and evenly distributed thickener fibers produces less severe surface damage. The smooth or textured surface is soon worn out, causing severe surface damage. The application of DLC coating onto the textured surface can protect the surface well but increase the friction coefficient a little bit.
The Incentive Effects of Tournaments and Peer Effects in Team Production: Evidence from Esports
Authors: Mao Eric
Published: July 2022

This paper examines the incentive effects of increased prize differentials and productivity spillovers from substitute coworkers within the context of esports. A direct behavioral measure called “actions per minute (APM)” is utilized to gauge Dota 2 players’ on-field exertion of effort dedicated to winning the game. The results based on empirical analysis support the incentive effects of the convex prize structure of esports tournaments on eliciting effort. Further investigation indicates that the incentive effects of high-stakes esports tournaments are more a result of the size of total prize than the relative prize distribution. It is also found that players who serve subordinate roles are more likely to engage in shirking behavior in the presence of teammates with similar roles.
Protecting Coastal Environment in India: Reading Laws in the Context of Climate Change
Authors: Basu Arindam , Mandal Sharda
Published: July 2022

The oceans’ role in maintaining the climate of this planet is unquestionably vital. But today, the fine balance in ocean chemistry is dangerously upset by the global warming, leading to more warmer oceans and a continuous rise in sea level across the globe. With that comes the threat to marine lives and ecosystems. India has a 7,516.6 km long coastline which is the home to many marginal poor communities who mainly survive on the ocean resources. Alongside, the adjacent marine environment contains an astounding array of biodiversity, harbouring innumerable species with ecological and commercial significance. However, Indian coastal regions are also not spared from the ill effects of climate change. The condition is frightening enough as the lives of hundreds and thousands of people living at the coast are at critical risk, along with the possibility of irreparable loss of biodiversity. India, thus far, has offered a fragmented conservation methodology for its coastal regions. The laws, regulations and policies that matter most in their current forms lack synergy and clear insight. This article tracks those ambiguities and advances a central argument that India needs to put in place an inclusive climate strategy without further eroding environmental laws that play a key role in conserving its coastal and marine environment.
First-line virologic-based ART treatment failure and associated factors among adult HIV Positives in Southwest Shoa, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Mulisa Diriba , Tolossa Tadesse , Bayisa Lami , Abera Tesfaye , Wakuma Bizuneh
Published: July 2022

Background: The function of antiretroviral therapy is to enhance immunity and prevent the occurrence of opportunistic infection. But antiretroviral therapy showed a failure to manage infection after a time. Nowadays, an accepted criterion to confirm Antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment failure is a virologic failure. Regarding this virologic failure, there are no well-addressed findings, especially in this study area. Therefore in this research, the magnitude and factors that contribute for virological ART treatment failure have been identified. Methods: Facilitybased cross-sectional study was conducted on adult patients taking ART. Data entry was conducted using Epi Data Version3 and exported to Stata SE version 14 for analysis. Bivariable logistic regression was used to find covariates significantly associated with firs line ART treatment failure. In this case, variables with P-value ≤ .25 were a candidate for multiple logistic regressions. A backward logistic regression model was used. Finally, variables with P-value ≤ .05 were considered as factors significantly associated with first-line ART treatment failure and the result was presented with a description, graph, and tables. Results: In this study, three hundred and fifty peoples were a candidate for the study and all have been involved. The magnitude of first-line ART treatment failure based on virologic criteria was 20.85%. Greater than three-fourth (84.29%) of study participants have support from somebody. Those patients who have initiated first-line ART with NVP based regimen have 1.83 times more likely to face first-line ART treatment failure as compared with those who have started with Efeverence (EFV) based regimen [AOR = 1.83, 95% CI (1.035, 3.245)]. Patients who have initiated first-line ART at the health center were 3.093 times more likely to face first-line ART treatment failure as compared those who have initiated ART at hospitals [AOR = 3.093, 95% CI (1.101, 8.685)]. Patients who have not developed a common opportunistic infection after ART initiation was 47.3% less likely to encounter first-line ART treatment failure as compared with those who have opportunistic infection [AOR = 0.527, 95% CI (0.289, 0.961)]. Conclusion: Based on virologic criteria, NVP based ART initiation, having history recorded opportunistic infection after ART initiation, being male, Institution where initiate ART, are significantly associated with the occurrences of first-line ART treatment failure. The action has to be directed on those identified factors to maintain the patient stay on First-line ART by concerned stakeholders.
The validity and reliability of the Swedish version of the Satisfaction with appearance scale for individuals with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Mattsson Malin , Hesselstrand Roger , Gunnarsson Karin , Dyrsmeds Elisabet , Holmner Monica , Nordin Annica , Boström Carina
Published: July 2022

Background:

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) can lead to visible changes in appearance which could generate concerns among patients. Thus, valid questionnaires that capture these concerns are valuable to identify and communicate appearance concerns.

Objective:

To determine aspects of the validity and reliability of the Swedish version of the Satisfaction with Appearance scale for individuals with SSc (SWAP-Swe in SSc).

Methods:

Content validity was assessed by interviews. In a cross-sectional design, construct validity was evaluated by comparing the self-reported questionnaire SWAP-Swe in SSc to the Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire (SSc HAQ), Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8), RAND-36, modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), disease duration and age using Spearman’s rank correlations ( rs). Internal consistency was evaluated by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and corrected item-to-total correlations. Test–retest reliability was investigated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results:

Eleven patients and 10 health professionals participated in the assessment of content validity. For the other aspects of validity and reliability 134 patients (median age 62 years, women 81%, limited cutaneous SSc 75%) participated. Overall, the content validity was satisfactory. The SWAP-Swe in SSc correlated with SSc HAQ (HAQ-DI rs = 0.50, visual analogue scales rs = 0.24–0.41), PHQ-8 ( rs = 0.46), RAND-36 ( rs = −0.21 to −0.47), mRSS ( rs = 0.28), disease duration ( rs = −0.01) and age ( rs = −0.15). The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.92, corrected item-to-total correlations ⩾ 0.45 and the ICC 0.82.

Conclusion:

The SWAP-Swe in SSc showed satisfactory content validity, sufficient and good internal consistency and sufficient test–retest reliability. It was more strongly associated with self-reported questionnaires than with physician-assessed skin involvement and age, indicating that appearance concerns in SSc seem to be multidimensional as earlier reported. Our study contributes with a thorough investigation of validity and reliability including aspects that have not been investigated before. However, evaluation of more validity aspects of the SWAP-Swe in SSc is suggested.
Ticagrelor vs placebo for the reduction of vaso-occlusive crises in pediatric sickle cell disease: the HESTIA3 study
Authors: Heeney Matthew M. , Abboud Miguel R. , Githanga Jessie , Inusa Baba P. D. , Kanter Julie , Michelson Alan D. , Nduba Videlis , Musiime Victor , Apte Mohini , Inati Adlette , Taksande Amar M. , Andersson Marielle , Åstrand Magnus , Maklad Noha , Niazi Mohammad , Himmelmann Anders , Berggren Anders R.
Published: July 2022

The phase 3 HESTIA3 study assessed the efficacy and safety of the reversible P2Y12 inhibitor ticagrelor vs placebo in preventing vaso-occlusive crises in pediatric patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Patients aged 2 to 17 years were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive weight-based doses of ticagrelor or matching placebo. The primary end point was the rate of vaso-occlusive crises, a composite of painful crises and/or acute chest syndrome (ACS). Key secondary end points included number and duration of painful crises, number of ACS events, and number of vaso-occlusive crises requiring hospitalization or emergency department visits. Exploratory end points included the effect of ticagrelor on platelet activation. In total, 193 patients (ticagrelor, n = 101; placebo, n = 92) underwent randomization at 53 sites across 16 countries. The study was terminated 4 months before planned completion for lack of efficacy. Median ticagrelor exposure duration was 296.5 days. The primary end point was not met: estimated yearly incidence of vaso-occlusive crises was 2.74 in the ticagrelor group and 2.60 in the placebo group (rate ratio, 1.06; 95% confidence interval, 0.75-1.50; P = .7597). There was no evidence of efficacy for ticagrelor vs placebo across secondary end points. Median platelet inhibition with ticagrelor at 6 months was 34.9% predose and 55.7% at 2 hours’ postdose. Nine patients (9%) in the ticagrelor group and eight patients (9%) in the placebo group had at least one bleeding event. In conclusion, no reduction of vaso-occlusive crises was seen with ticagrelor vs placebo in these pediatric patients with SCD. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03615924.
One-quarter of individuals with weekly headache have never consulted a medical doctor: a Danish nationwide cross-sectional survey
Authors: Do Thien Phu , Stefansen Simon , Dømgaard Mikala , Steiner Timothy J. , Ashina Messoud
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Large numbers of people with headache who would benefit are not reached by headache services. Among the causes are poor or disorganized provision of headache services, but reluctance to seek healthcare has frequently been identified as a significant barrier. We conducted a national survey of people with headache to assess the extent of this problem in Denmark, a country with well organized, highly resourced, and readily accessible services.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey of adults ≥ 18 years old in Denmark reporting at least one headache day in the last year. We used social media (Facebook) to publicize and drive a recruitment campaign. The survey investigated five items: (1) disease burden, (2) social life, (3) presenteeism, (4) social support, and (5) healthcare utilization.

Results

We included 6,567 respondents from May 2021 to June 2021; 70.2% were female, 39.8% male, and mean age was 43.2 ± 13.4 years. Of the respondents, 54.2% reported headache at least once a week, 33.4% reported headache a couple of times a month, and 12.4% reported headache a couple of times a year. Two-thirds of respondents (66.6%) reported that headache limited their social lives occasionally or frequently. Most respondents (86.8%) reported going to work or attending educational activities occasionally or more frequently even though they had headache. Half of the respondents (49.5%) experienced lack of understanding of their headaches from people occasionally or more frequently. Almost half of respondents (43.7%) had never consulted a medical doctor for their headache; even of those with weekly headache, more than a quarter (28.3%) had never done so in their lifetimes.

Conclusions

Headache disorders continue to be a problem, even in a high-income country with free and easily accessible headache services. Further studies are needed to investigate and clarify why even people with the highest burden are hesitant to seek and make use of widely available headache services.
OTUB2 Regulates YAP1/TAZ to Promotes the Progression of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Li , Cheng Hu , Ji Min , Su Liping , Lu Ziyang , Hu Xiayun , Guan Yaling , Xiao Jinling , Ma Lijuan , Zhang Wei , Pu Hongwei
Published: July 2022

Objective

The effects of Otubain-2 (OTUB2) on the proliferation, invasion, and migration of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) were investigated by interfering with OTUB2 expression.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis was used to analyze OTUB2 expression in esophageal carcinoma and interactions between OTUB2 and YAP1/TAZ. Paraffin-embedded ESCC tissues (n = 183) were selected for immunohistochemical staining to detect OTUB2, YAP1, TAZ, CTGF and their relationship with clinicopathological parameters, then the survival prognosis of ESCC patients was analyzed. Immunofluorescence, western blotting, and qRT-PCR were used to evaluate OTUB2 in ESCC cell lines. Cell lines with the highest expression of OTUB2 were transfected with lentivirus to knockdown OTUB2 levels. Changes in KYSE150 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were measured using CCK-8, wound healing, and clone formation assays. The Transwell test and flow cytometry identified OTUB2 targets and explored roles and mechanisms involved in ESCC. Effects of OTUB2 on YAP1/TAZ signaling were also observed.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis revealed OTUB2 was highly expressed in esophageal cancer and was associated with YAP1/TAZ. Immunohistochemistry showed that OTUB2 expression was increased in ESCC samples compared to parcancerous tissue. YAP1 and TAZ were higher expression in ESCC tissues, mainly localized in the nucleus. Compared with controls, the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of KYSE150 cells after OTUB2 knockdown were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). The protein expression levels of YAP1, TAZ and CTGF decreased after knocking down the expression of OTUB2 (P < 0.05). OTUB2 knockdown in ESCC cell lines suppressed YAP1/TAZ signaling.

Conclusions

OTUB2 regulated the protein expression of YAP1/TAZ to promote cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumor development. Therefore, OTUB2 may represent a biomarker for ESCC and a potential target for ESCC treatment.
Persistent white matter vulnerability in a mouse model of mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Velayudhan Prashanth S. , Mak Jordan J. , Gazdzinski Lisa M. , Wheeler Anne L.
Published: July 2022

Background

Following one mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), there is a window of vulnerability during which subsequent mTBIs can cause substantially exacerbated impairments. Currently, there are no known methods to monitor, shorten or mitigate this window.

Methods

To characterize a preclinical model of this window of vulnerability, we first gave male and female mice one or two high-depth or low-depth mTBIs separated by 1, 7, or 14 days. We assessed brain white matter integrity using silver staining within the corpus callosum and optic tracts, as well as behavioural performance on the Y-maze test and visual cliff test.

Results

The injuries resulted in windows of white matter vulnerability longer than 2 weeks but produced no behavioural impairments. Notably, this window duration is substantially longer than those reported in any previous preclinical vulnerability study, despite our injury model likely being milder than the ones used in those studies. We also found that sex and impact depth differentially influenced white matter integrity in different white matter regions.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the experimental window of vulnerability following mTBI may be longer than previously reported. Additionally, this work highlights the value of including white matter damage, sex, and replicable injury models for the study of post-mTBI vulnerability and establishes important groundwork for the investigation of potential vulnerability mechanisms, biomarkers, and therapies.
Comparative transcriptomic analysis of maize ear heterosis during the inflorescence meristem differentiation stage
Authors: Shi Xia , Li Weihua , Guo Zhanyong , Wu Mingbo , Zhang Xiangge , Yuan Liang , Qiu Xiaoqian , Xing Ye , Sun Xiaojing , Xie Huiling , Tang Jihua
Published: July 2022

Background

Heterosis is widely used in many crops and is important for global food safety, and maize is one of the most successful crops to take advantage of heterosis. Gene expression patterns control the development of the maize ear, but the mechanisms by which heterosis affects transcriptional-level control are not fully understood.

Results

In this study, we sampled ear inflorescence meristems (IMs) from the single-segment substitution maize (Zea mays) line lx9801hlEW2b, which contains the heterotic locus hlEW2b associated with ear width, as well as the receptor parent lx9801, the test parent Zheng58, and their corresponding hybrids Zheng58 × lx9801hlEW2b (HY) and Zheng58 × lx9801 (CK). After RNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis, 2531 unique differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the two hybrids (HY vs. CK). Our results showed that approximately 64% and 48% of DEGs exhibited additive expression in HY and CK, whereas the other genes displayed a non-additive expression pattern. The DEGs were significantly enriched in GO functional categories of multiple metabolic processes, plant organ morphogenesis, and hormone regulation. These essential processes are potentially associated with heterosis performance during the maize ear developmental stage. In particular, 125 and 100 DEGs from hybrids with allele-specific expression (ASE) were specifically identified in HY and CK, respectively. Comparison between the two hybrids suggested that ASE genes were involved in different development-related processes that may lead to the hybrid vigor phenotype during maize ear development. In addition, several critical genes involved in auxin metabolism and IM development were differentially expressed between the hybrids and showed various expression patterns (additive, non-additive, and ASE). Changes in the expression levels of these genes may lead to differences in auxin homeostasis in the IM, affecting the transcription of core genes such as WUS that control IM development.

Conclusions

Our research suggests that additive, non-additive, and allele-specific expression patterns may fine-tune the expression of crucial DEGs that modulate carbohydrate and protein metabolic processes, nitrogen assimilation, and auxin metabolism to optimal levels, and these transcriptional changes may play important roles in maize ear heterosis. The results provide new information that increases our understanding of the relationship between transcriptional variation and heterosis during maize ear development, which may be helpful for clarifying the genetic and molecular mechanisms of heterosis.
Transcriptomic responses under combined bacterial blight and drought stress in rice reveal potential genes to improve multi-stress tolerance
Authors: Pal Garima , Bakade Rahul , Deshpande Sanjay , Sureshkumar V. , Patil Swathi S. , Dawane Akashata , Agarwal Subham , Niranjan Vidya , PrasannaKumar M. K. , Vemanna Ramu S.
Published: July 2022

Background

The unprecedented drought and frequent occurrence of pathogen infection in rice is becoming more due to climate change. Simultaneous occurrence of stresses lead to more crop loss. To cope up multiple stresses, the durable resistant cultivars needs to be developed, by identifying relevant genes from combined biotic and abiotic stress exposed plants.

Results

We studied the effect of drought stress, bacterial leaf blight disease causing Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) pathogen infection and combined stress in contrasting BPT5204 and TN1 rice genotypes. Mild drought stress increased Xoo infection irrespective of the genotype. To identify relevant genes that could be used to develop multi-stress tolerant rice, RNA sequencing from individual drought, pathogen and combined stresses in contrasting genotypes has been developed. Many important genes are identified from resistant genotype and diverse group of genes are differentially expressed in contrasting genotypes under combined stress. Further, a meta-analysis from individual drought and Xoo pathogen stress from public domain data sets narrowed- down candidate differentially expressed genes. Many translation associated genes are differentially expressed suggesting their extra-ribosomal function in multi-stress adaptation. Overexpression of many of these genes showed their relevance in improving stress tolerance in rice by different scientific groups. In combined stress, many downregulated genes also showed their relevance in stress adaptation when they were over-expressed.

Conclusions

Our study identifies many important genes, which can be used as molecular markers and targets for genetic manipulation to develop durable resistant rice cultivars. Strategies should be developed to activate downregulated genes, to improve multi-stress tolerance in plants.
Diversity and population structure of Nordic potato cultivars and breeding clones
Authors: Selga Catja , Chrominski Pawel , Carlson-Nilsson Ulrika , Andersson Mariette , Chawade Aakash , Ortiz Rodomiro
Published: July 2022

Background

The genetic diversity and population structure of breeding germplasm is central knowledge for crop improvement. To gain insight into the genetic potential of the germplasm used for potato breeding in a Nordic breeding program as well as all available accessions from the Nordic genebank (NordGen), 133 potato genotypes were genotyped using the Infinium Illumina 20 K SNP array. After SNP filtering, 11 610 polymorphic SNPs were included in the analysis. In addition, data from three important breeding traits – percent dry matter and uniformity of tuber shape and eye – were scored to measure the variation potato cultivars and breeding clones.

Results

The genetic diversity among the genotypes was estimated using principal coordinate analysis based on the genetic distance between individuals, as well as by using the software STRUCTURE. Both methods suggest that the collected breeding material and the germplasm from the gene-bank are closely related, with a low degree of population structure between the groups. The phenotypic distribution among the genotypes revealed significant differences, especially between farmer’s cultivars and released cultivars and breeding clones. The percent heterozygosity was similar between the groups, with a mean average of 58–60%. Overall, the breeding germplasm and the accessions from the Nordic genebank seems to be closely related with similar genetic background.

Conclusion

The genetic potential of available Nordic potato breeding germplasm is low, and for genetic hybridization purposes, genotypes from outside the Nordic region should be employed.
Management of disseminated intravascular coagulation after thoracic endovascular aortic repair of type B aortic dissection: a case report
Authors: Liu Hanbo , Liu Yi , Lai Jifu
Published: July 2022

Background

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a critical and rare complication after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) of type B aortic dissection. The optimal treatment of aortic dissection-related DIC remains controversial.

Case presentation

We herein describe the successful management of a 65-year-old man who presented with gingival bleeding and multiple subcutaneous petechiae and was proven to have DIC after TEVAR of aortic dissection. The patient had initially been discharged with improved laboratory tests after anticoagulation treatment followed by oral rivaroxaban for maintenance. However, he was readmitted with recurrent gingival bleeding 17 days later. The DIC was successfully controlled with a combination of anticoagulation and antifibrinolytics. After the patient was discharged, his treatment was switched to oral tranexamic acid and warfarin for maintenance. During a 15-month follow-up, the patient had no recurrence of hemorrhage symptoms and maintained stable coagulative and fibrinolytic parameters.

Conclusions

Aortic dissection-related DIC requires long-term management under conservative treatment. The combination of warfarin and tranexamic acid may be a feasible method for long-term maintenance therapy.
Analysis of injuries and deaths from road traffic accidents in Iran: bivariate regression approach
Authors: Shahsavari Soodeh , Mohammadi Ali , Mostafaei Shayan , Zereshki Ehsan , Tabatabaei Seyyed Mohammad , Zhaleh Mohsen , Shahsavari Meisam , Zeini Frouzan
Published: July 2022

Backgrounds

This study aims to estimate and compare the parameters of some univariate and bivariate count models to identify the factors affecting the number of mortality and the number of injured in road accidents.

Methods

The accident data used in this study are related to Kermanshah province in march2020 to march2021. Accidents areas were divided into 125 areas based on density characteristics. In a one-year period, 3090 accidents happened on the suburban roads of Kermanshah province, which resulted in 398 deaths and 4805 injuries. Accident information, including longitude and latitude of accident location, type of accident (fatal and injury), number of deaths, number of injuries, accident type, the reason of the accident, and the kind of accident were all included as population-level variables in the regression models. We investigated four frequently used bivariate count regression models for accident data in the literature.

Results

In bivariate analysis, except for the DNM model, there is a reasonable decrease in the AIC measures of the saturated model compared to the reduced model for the other three models. For the injury models, MSE is lowest, respectively for DIBP (137.87), BNB (289.46), BP (412.36) and DNM (3640.89) models. These results are also established for death models. But, in univariate analysis, only injury models almost present reasonable results.

Conclusions

Our findings show that the IDBP model is better suitable for evaluating accident datasets than other models. Motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, left turn deviance, and dangerous speeding were all significant variables in the IDBP death model, and these parameters were linked to accident mortality.
Sentinel fall presenting to the emergency department (SeFallED) – protocol of a complex study including long-term observation of functional trajectories after a fall, exploration of specific fall risk factors, and patients’ views on falls prevention
Authors: Stuckenschneider Tim , Koschate Jessica , Dunker Ellen , Reeck Nadja , Hackbarth Michel , Hellmers Sandra , Kwiecien Robert , Lau Sandra , Levke Brütt Anna , Hein Andreas , Zieschang Tania
Published: July 2022

Background

Falls are a leading cause for emergency department (ED) visits in older adults. As a fall is associated with a high risk of functional decline and further falls and many falls do not receive medical attention, the ED is ideal to initiate secondary prevention, an opportunity generally not taken. Data on trajectories to identify patients, who would profit the most form early intervention and to examine the impact of a fall event, are lacking. To tailor interventions to the individual’s needs and preferences, and to address the whole scope of fall risks, we developed this longitudinal study using an extensive assessment battery including dynamic balance and aerobic fitness, but also sensor-based data. Additionally, participative research will contribute valuable qualitative data, and machine learning will be used to identify trips, slips, and falls in sensor data during daily life.

Methods

This is a mixed-methods study consisting of four parts: (1) an observational prospective study, (2) a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to explore whether a diagnostic to measure reactive dynamic balance influences fall risk, (3) machine learning approaches and (4) a qualitative study to explore patients’ and their caregivers’ views. We will target a sample size of 450 adults of 60 years and older, who presented to the ED of the Klinikum Oldenburg after a fall and are not hospitalized. The participants will be followed up over 24 months (within four weeks after the ED, after 6, 12 and 24 months). We will assess functional abilities, fall risk factors, participation, quality of life, falls incidence, and physical activity using validated instruments, including sensor-data. Additionally, two thirds of the patients will undergo intensive testing in the gait laboratory and 72 participants will partake in focus group interviews.

Discussion

The results of the SeFallED study will be used to identify risk factors with high predictive value for functional outcome after a sentinel fall. This will help to (1) establish a protocol adapted to the situation in the ED to identify patients at risk and (2) to initiate an appropriate care pathway, which will be developed based on the results of this study.

Trial registration

DRKS (Deutsches Register für klinische Studien, DRKS00025949). Prospectively registered on 4th November, 2021.
The German version of the Mini Suffering State Examination (MSSE) for people with advanced dementia living in nursing homes
Authors: Zumstein Naomi , Yamada Keiko , Eicher Stefanie , Theill Nathan , Geschwindner Heike , Wolf Henrike , Riese Florian
Published: July 2022

Background

The Mini Suffering State Examination (MSSE) has been explicitly recommended to assess suffering in dementia patients. This study aimed to develop a German version of the MSSE and assess its psychometric properties involving people with advanced dementia (PAD) in a nursing home setting.

Methods

The MSSE was translated into German, and 95 primary nurses administered it cross-sectionally to 124 PAD in Zurich, Switzerland. The psychometric properties of the German MSSE version were calculated for this population.

Results

The mean age of the PAD was 83.3 years (SD = 9.1, range = 55–102 years), and 98 of them (79.0%) were women. The Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 coefficient for the entire scale (0.58), the eight items relating to objective health conditions (0.39), and the professional and family estimation of the patient’s suffering (0.64) indicated low internal consistency. A confirmatory factor analysis indicated an unsatisfactory fit to a one-factor structure, with a comparative fit index and root mean square error of approximation of 0.71 and 0.08, respectively, and a Tucker–Lewis index of 0.64. The MSSE total score was significantly but moderately correlated with the total scores of the Symptom Management–End-of-Life with Dementia (SM-EOLD) scale (Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) = -0.44; p < 0.05), the physical suffering scores (r = 0.41; p < 0.05), and the psychological suffering scores (r = 0.55; p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The German version of the MSSE questionnaire did not perform well in the nursing home setting involving PAD. The instrument had low internal consistency, doubtful validity, and could not discriminate between suffering and other distressing symptoms. We do not recommend its use in this population.
Pericarditis caused by Mycobacterium africanum: case report
Authors: Mascarell Paula , de la Rica Alba , Padilla Sergio , Ruiz-García Montserrat , López-Escudero José , García-Abellán Javier , Botella Ángela , Masiá Mar , Gutiérrez Félix
Published: July 2022

Background

Mycobacterium africanum is a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and is endemic in West Africa, where it causes up to half of all cases of pulmonary tuberculosis. Here, we report the first isolation of Mycobacterium africanum from the pericardial effusion culture of a patient with tuberculous pericarditis.

Case presentation

A 31-year-old man, native from Senegal, came to the emergency room with massive pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade requiring pericardiocentesis. M. africanum subtype II was identified in the pericardial fluid. The patient completed 10 months of standard treatment, with a favorable outcome.

Conclusions

We report the first case of tuberculous pericarditis caused by Mycobacterium africanum, which provide evidence that this microorganism can cause pericardial disease and must be considered in patients from endemic areas presenting with pericardial effusion.