bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assigning Secondary Structure in Proteins Using AI
Authors: Antony Jisna Vellara , Madhu Prayagh , Balakrishnan Jayaraj Pottekkattuvalappil
Published: March 2021

Knowledge about protein structure assignment enriches the structural and functional understanding of proteins. Accurate and reliable structure assignment data is crucial for secondary structure prediction systems. Since the '80s various methods based on hydrogen bond analysis and atomic coordinate geometry, followed by Machine Learning, have been employed in protein structure assignment. However, the assignment process becomes challenging when missing atoms are present in protein files. Our model develops a multi-class classifier program named DLFSA for assigning protein Secondary Structure Elements(SSE) using Convolutional Neural Networks(CNN). A fast and efficient GPU based parallel procedure extracts fragments from protein files. The model implemented in this work is trained with a subset of protein fragments and achieves 88.1% and 82.5% train and test accuracy, respectively. Our model uses only Cα coordinates for secondary structure assignments. The model is successfully tested on a few full-length proteins also. Results from the fragment-based studies demonstrate the feasibility of applying deep learning solutions for structure assignment problems.
Insisting on Life Dignity: Advance Care Planning in Taiwan During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yang Chun-Yi , Liu Ching-Nu , Yang Chi-Cheng , Tsai Zong-Dar , Lin Su-Fei , Lin Hsin-Yi , Huang Yen-Rong , Sun Fu-Min , Huang Feng-Chiao , Liu M.S Chia-Jen , Huang Tsun -Cheng , Huang Sheng-Jean
Published: March 2021

Background:The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak is a global public health crisis that has affected the implementation of advance care planning (ACP) in Taiwan. The purpose of this study is to (1) confirm that COVID-19 significantly reduced public participation in ACP, (2) identify factors influencing the implementation of ACP during the COVID-19 pandemic and how they differ from those before the COVID-19 outbreak.Methods: An observational study from retrospective review of medical chart and clinical information.This is a hospital-based study to examine the characteristics of ACP implementation in Taiwan during COVID-19. A total of 1,253 participants were recruited, including 916 people who had completed ACP from September through December 2019, and 337 people from January through April 2020.Results:This study representing an approximately 65% decrease in ACP participation after COVID-19 outbreak. The cancellation rate of ACP during COVID-19 is higher before outbreak. After COVID-19 outbreak, Participation rate of disadvantaged populations increased from 16.92% to 21.66%. The percentage of participants with caregiver experiences decreased from 31.66%to to 23.44% . Participants who did not wish for their families to bear decision-making responsibilities increased from 44.00% to 52.52%. The percentage of offspring participation increased from 86.57% to 90.80%. The percentage of individuals completing ACP after the outbreak without signing an advance directive increased from 5.57% to 9.20%. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced participation in ACP. Conclusions: This study directly compared the ACP implementation before and after COVID-19, which is a tremendous global health crisis influencing the conceptions of life and death.COVID-19 has threatened the public’s health and has changed ACP in the healthcare system by increasing public awareness of the topic of death. After COVID-19, both medical staff and the public should clearly express their opinions on terminal care.Policy supports and active participation of medical team can encourage disadvantages to complete ACP.Healthcare workers should provide palliative and terminal care services in which patient comfort and dignity are the primary focus of care.Trial registration:This study was approved on 3 June 2020 by the Taipei City Hospital Institutional Review Board (Case No.: TCHIRB-10808008-E).
Management of Chronic Noninfectious Uveitis with Low-Dose Methotrexate
Authors: Kim Yong-Hui , Ko Mi-Ryong , Ryu Kang-Chol , Kang Il-Hyok
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of low-dose oral methotrexate(5mg/week) among chronic noninfectious uveitis patients who were unresponsive to conventional steroids therapy.
Methods

27 patients with chronic noninfectious uveitis who were treated with low-dose methotrexate (MTX) at ophthalmology department of Pyongyang University of Medical Science Hospital from 2017 to 2020 were participated in this study.Each patient received oral MTX at dose of 5mg/week except that 2 patients were given 7.5mg/week MTX for the first 4 weeks. The treatment effects were evaluated based on ratio of inflammation control, Log MAR visual acuity, mean number of relapses and steroid-sparing effect. Every adverse effect associated with drug use was recorded.
Results

Control of inflammation was achieved in 92.6% of patients. Visual acuity was improved in 82.9% (29 eyes among 35 eyes) and maintained in 5.7% (2 eyes). The mean number of relapses was decreased from 4.2 (before therapy) to 1.9 (after therapy). Steroid-sparing effect was achieved in 85.2% patients. There was no serious side effect requiring discontinuation of therapy but some adverse reactions were recorded in 22.2% of patients.
Conclusions

Low-dose methotrexate(5mg/week) is supposed to be able to successfully control chronic noninfectious uveitis and has a steroid-sparing effect. It is also safer because it shows less adverse effects.
Deregulation of miR-34a, miR-221 and miR-222 after HT29 cells treatment with Silibinin encapsulated in polymersomes as an anti-cancer stem cell agent
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Samaneh , Pakizehkar Safura , Ranji Najmeh , Sohi Alireza Naderi , Najafi Farhood
Published: March 2021

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) has the most common malignant gastrointestinal cancer which representing about13% of all malignant tumor. CRC Cancer Stem Cell is the major reasons for recurrence of disease cause of solid tumor metastasis, relapse of cancer after treatment and drug resistance. Silibinin, an herbal extract from milk thistle plant, has been identified as a potential cancer medicine that can target the signaling pathway of CSCs and change their abilities. In our study, the results of CSC confirmation test such as specific surface CD markers and ability to form colonospheres was indicated the HT-29 cells as CSC-CRC. To increase the effectiveness of Silibinin, and also, to evaluate therapeutic intentions on HT-29 cancer stem-like cells, we encapsulated Silibinin in polymersome nanoparticle and validated the anti-proliferative and apoptotic activities of this new patent by MTT assay, AnnexinV/PI method, cell cycle analysis and DAPI staining. Furthermore, the efficacy of drug on Multicellular Tumor Spheroid (MCTS) and single cell suspension was showed that SPN had succeed to decrees the expression level of CSC CD markers compared with control group. Follow by using miRNAs as a novel and minus invasive expertise for prognostic, RT-qPCR confirmed that SPNs can repress oncogenic miRNAs such as miR-221 and miR-222. Silibinin encapsulated in Polymersome Nanoparticles (SPNs) can also enhance the expression of tumor suppressor miR-34a and some of its proapoptotic target genes such as P53, BAX, CASP9, CASP3, and CASP8. Our results suggested that SPNs can be recognized as a new stimulant factor to direct the HT-29 cancer cells toward apoptosis pathways thorough modify expression of some miRNAs and their apoptotic target genes directly and/or indirectly.
Antecedent water condition determines carbon exchange response to extreme precipitation events across global drylands
Authors: Zhao Huichen , Xu Xiyan , Jia Gensuo , Zhang Anzhi , Wang Hesong
Published: March 2021

The global hydrological cycle is predicted to be intensified under the warming climate, with more extreme precipitation events and longer dry spell in between. Here, we evaluated how extreme precipitation events (EPEs) with antecedent dry (dry-EPEs) and wet (wet-EPEs) water conditions influence carbon exchange along gradient of arid, semi-arid and sub-humid ecosystems based on eddy covariance datasets. After EPEs, ecosystem respiration (Re) and gross primary productivity (GPP) were stimulated by pulses of soil moisture in arid and semi-arid regions, but suppressed by decreased soil temperature in sub-humid region. Antecedent water condition determined asynchronous response of Re and GPP to EPEs, and therefore fluctuations in net carbon balance. Net carbon uptake capacity was enhanced immediately following wet-EPEs because of more rapid and greater response of GPP than Re. However, after dry-EPEs, net carbon uptake capacity decreased immediately and increased thereafter because the response of GPP to dry-EPEs lagged behind Re. More antecedent precipitation further stimulated accumulative net carbon uptake. Along the aridity gradient, duration and magnitude of net carbon release were greater in wetter regions than that in drier regions after dry-EPEs, while net carbon uptake duration was shorter in wetter regions after wet-EPEs. The accumulative net carbon uptake after EPEs decreased with increasing aridity index, indicating that net carbon uptake capacity in drier regions benefited more from EPEs. We concluded that antecedent water conditions and local climate regimes need to be considered when interpreting the response of carbon exchange to EPEs in dryland ecosystems.
A retrospective investigation of twenty-five cases with periocular pilomatrixoma
Authors: Song Wei , Ma Zhenyi
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Pilomatrixoma is an uncommon benign skin tumor, developing from hair follicle matrix. It consistently presents in the head and neck region patients with pediatric predominance, from infancy to senior. Thus far, few case series studies have been focused on the periocular lesions that involve the eyelid and eyebrow. In the present study, we carried out a case series with 25 patients of periocular pilomatrixoma.
Methods

Records from the Hospital Information System (HIS) of our hospital were reviewed retrospectively between the years 2009 and 2020 to search for all patients that were diagnosed as pilomatrixoma of eyelid or eyebrow. All patients received excision in the Department of Ophthalmology and histological examinations in the Department of Pathology. Patients’ information and characterization of tumors features were recorded and analyzed.
Results

These clinical conditions were mostly found in female patients in their early twenties. All tumors developed at upper eyelids or eyebrows and both right and left sides were equally affected. Basophilic cells and shadow cells were the basic components of the lesions, with or without calcification and foreign body giant cells. Complete surgical resection was the essential therapeutical approach for this disease and no recurrence or malignant transformations were noticed upon follow-up.
Conclusion

The findings of current case series analysis are in concordance with the clinical and histopathological features of periocular pilomatrixoma.
Sorption of Ce(III) on magnetic / olive pomace nanocomposite: Isotherm, kinetic and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Akbas Yusuf Azmi , Yusan Sabriye , Sert Senol , Aytas Sule
Published: March 2021

Used for various high-tech applications, cerium is an important rare earth element (REE) and its sorption on various solids also important considering purification, environmental and radioactive waste disposal, In view of the industrial and environmental terms, it is important to remove Ce3+ ions from an aqueous solution. Magnetite and magnetic olive pomace nanocomposite were thus fabricated by a partial reduction co-precipitation approach. The structure and morphological properties of the prepared nano-material and nanocomposite were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR), Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) and BET surface area analysis. The effects of parameters such as solution pH, contact time, initial Ce(III) concentration and temperature on the sorption efficiency were studied. The maximum sorption capacities of the magnetite (MNP) and magnetic olive pomace nanocomposite (MOP) for Ce(III) ions were found to be 76.92 and 90.90 mgg− 1, respectively. The sorption data fitted well with Dubinin- Radushkevich isotherm model and the pseudo-second order kinetic model. Thermodynamic parameters indicated that the sorption was non-spontaneous and endothermic. The present study introduced MNP and MOP as efficient, sustainable adsorbents alternative to commercial ones in wastewater treatment.
Short-term effects of COVID-19 on risk of traumatic fractures in China: a multi-city study
Authors: Lv Hongzhi , Zhang Xiaolin , Wang Juan , Hou Zhiyong , Wang Haicheng , Li Chao , Wang Wenjuan , Chen Wei , Zhang Yingze
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Traumatic injury is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and fifth most common of in China. Along with the outbreak of COVID-19, strict control measures to restrict people’s movement have been conducted in China. Subsequently, the injury mechanisms and pattern of traumatic fractures changed significantly. This study aimed to investigate the associations between COVID-19 and fracture risk, and provide a targeted reference for the world through China’s experience.Methods: This was a retrospective study of a nationally representative sample of COVID-19 prevalence areas using stratified random sampling. The data of traumatic fracture sustaining patients, including age and sex, fractured sites, mechanism of injury, and concurrent fractures in selected hospitals, were collected from 10 January and 10 July, 2020. The epidemiologic characteristics of traumatic fractures and the associations between COVID-19 and fracture risk were explored using the descriptive epidemiological methods and distribution lag nonlinear model.Results: A total of 67,249 (52.3% males) patients (average age 49.4±19.4 years) with 68,989 fractures were included. The highest proportion of fractures were sustained to the tibia and fibula (14.9%), followed by the femur (13.6%), and ulna and radius (12.5%). Low-energy fractures accounted for 23.3%. With the increase of newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, fracture risk decreased for children, young and middle-aged adults, elderly men, high-energy fracture, and for residents in low and middle-prevalence areas.Conclusion: Fracture risk decreased sharply in all residents except elderly women, low-energy fractures, and in high-prevalence areas when newly confirmed COVID-19 cases increased in China. Primary (home) prevention measures are emphasized to prevent traumatic fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Experimental investigation on material removal and brittle–ductile transition of SiC ceramics milling regarding milling force characteristic and tool wear
Authors: qiu jian , Ge Renpeng , han tingchao
Published: March 2021

This research of SiC ceramics milling with diamond tool is paid attention to the milling mechanism and the cracks formation to found the brittle–ductile transition. The ductile material removal process of ceramics milling was discussed based on milling geometric models. Based on the material characteristics and fracture mechanics theory of SiC ceramics, the chip formation process and the brittle–ductile transition of ceramics milling were analyzed. The milling experiments of SiC ceramics were carried out, and the effect of cutting parameters on material removal mode was investigated. Based on milling forces, surface topography and chip morphology, the removal mechanism of ceramics milling was analyzed. Diamond tool wear on the material removal and milling forces during milling was investigated. Different methods were compared to identify the critical milling parameters of brittle–ductile transition, which can be used to recommend the milling parameters for crack control and high quality cutting.
Effects of Perioperative Rosuvastatin for Postoperative Delirium After Elderly General Anesthesia Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Xu Xiaoqin , Luo Jingzhi , Li Xiaoyu , Tang Haiqin , Lu Weihong
Published: March 2021

Background: Experimental evidence has indicated the benefits of statins for the treatment of postoperative delirium. Previously clinical trials had no definite conclusions of statins on delirium. Some clinical trials indicated statins can reduce postoperative delirium and improve outcome, while some studies showed negative results. Therefore, the present study tries to evaluate whether perioperative rosuvastatin treatment could reduce the incidence of delirium and improve clinical outcomes. Methods: This was a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial in a single-center in Jiangsu, China. This study enrolled patients aged more than 60 years old who present selective general anesthesia operation, with informed consent. A computer-generated randomization sequence (in a 1:1 ratio) was used to randomly assign patients to receive either rosuvastatin (40 mg/day) or placebos. Participants, care providers, and investigators were all masked to group assignment. The primary endpoint was the incidence of delirium, assessed twice daily with the Confusion Assessment Method during the first 7 postoperative days. Analyses were performed by intention-to-treat and safety populations. Results: Between Jan 1, 2017, and Jan 1, 2020, 3512 patients were assessed. A total of 821 were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo (n=411) or rosuvastatin (n=410). The incidence of postoperative delirium was significantly lower in the rosuvastatin group (23 [5.6%] of 410 patients) than the placebo group (42 [13.5%] of 411 patients (OR=0.522, 95% CI 0.308-0.885; p<0.05). No significant difference on 30-day all-cause mortality (6.1% vs 8.7 %, OR 0.67, P=0.147, 95% CI 0.39–1.2) between two groups. Rosuvastatin can decrease the hospitalization time (13.8±2.5 vs 14.2±2.8, P=0.03) and hospitalization expenses (9.3±2.5 vs 9.8±2.9, P=0.007). No statistical significance between the two groups on abnormal liver enzymes (9.0% vs 7.1%, P=0.30, OR=1.307, 95% CI 0.787-2.169) and rhabdomyolysis (0.73% vs 0.24%, P=0.37, OR=3.020, 95% CI 0.31-29.2. Conclusion: The current study suggests that perioperative rosuvastatin treatment can reduce the incidence of delirium after elective general anesthesia operation. However, no evidence was found that rosuvastatin can improve clinical outcomes. The therapy was safe. Further investigation is necessary to fully understand the potential usefulness of dexmedetomidine in older patients. Trial registration: chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR-IPR-17011984(Registered date: 13/07/2017). The manuscript adheres to CONSORT guidelines.
Increasing Large Wildfires over the Western United States Linked to Diminishing Sea Ice in the Arctic
Authors: Zou Yufei , Rasch Philip , Wang Hailong , Xie Zuowei , Zhang Rudong
Published: March 2021

The compound nature of large wildfires affected by multiple natural and anthropogenic factors in combination with complex interactions involved in hydroclimate-related physical processes make it difficult to directly connect wildfire changes over fire-prone regions like the western United States (U.S.) with anthropogenic climate change. Here we show that increasing large wildfires during autumn over the western U.S. are fueled by more fire-favorable weather associated with rapid declines in Arctic sea ice during preceding months on both interdecadal and interannual time scales. Our analysis (based on observations, climate model sensitivity experiments, and a multi-model ensemble of climate simulations) demonstrates and explains the Arctic-driven teleconnection through circulation changes with the poleward-shifted North Pacific jet stream and enhanced fire-favorable surface weather conditions. The amplitude of the Arctic-driven fire weather change is of similar magnitude to other leading modes of climate variability such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) that also influence fire weather in the western U.S.
Inhibiting Effects of the Ni Barrier Layer on the Growth of Porous Cu3sn in 10 μm Microbumps
Authors: Liu Siyan , Yang Chenlin , Ling huiqin , Hu Anmin , Hang Tao , Gao Liming , Li Ming
Published: March 2021

With the shrinkage of size, porous Cu3Sn have become a new potential threat of the reliability in micron Cu pillar bump. The formation of porous Cu3Sn is contributed the decomposition of Cu6Sn5, which is caused by the overgrowth of intermetallic compounds (IMC) and the stress introduced by the phase transition of Cu6Sn5. In this paper, uniform Ф10 µm Cu/Sn and Cu/Ni (~0.6 μm)/Sn microbumps have been fabricated by multilayer electrodeposition and the effect of the Ni layer on the growth behavior of porous Cu3Sn was investigated by comparing the evolution of IMC in Cu/Sn and Cu/Ni/Sn bumps aged at 170 ℃ and 200 ℃. The ~0.6 μm Ni layer can effectively retard the Cu atoms diffusion, which can hinder IMC from overgrowth. Moreover, with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD), the ability of the Ni layer in stabilizing Cu6Sn5 phase is strengthened, which weakens the tendency of the porous Cu3Sn formation. Under the conjoint action of retarding the growth of IMC and stabilizing Cu6Sn5 phase, the Ni layer can inhibit the formation of porous Cu3Sn efficaciously.
Educating the Next Generation in Sport and Exercise Medicine: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Marino Katherine Rose , Fitzpatrick Daniel , Vishnubala Dane
Published: March 2021

Background

Sport and exercise medicine (SEM) is a
relatively new specialty, and it is not well incorporated into
undergraduate medical education.

Previous studies have highlighted that medical students would benefit from increased teaching on SEM, and that students would like more SEM teaching. The aim of this project is to establish which SEM-related topics are deemed to be most important to incorporate into undergraduate medical education and confirm whether medical students would benefit from increased SEM exposure.
Methods

An online survey was distributed to all members of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Medicine (BASEM) via email, and it was shared on Twitter via BASEM and the research team.
Results
A total of 126 responses were analysed.
The majority of respondents work in
SEM, or were interested in pursuing a career in SEM.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) examination skills, exercise to prevent and manage disease, and MSK injuries and conditions were deemed to be the most important SEM-related topics to teach medical students. Use of social media and pitchside case were deemed the least important. Respondents thought medical students do not receive enough SEM teaching at medical school and could benefit from increased SEM exposure.
Conclusions

This study supports the opinion that medical students would benefit from increased SEM exposure. This survey is the first to determine how important it is that specific SEM-related topics are taught to medical students. In response to this survey a Delphi study is being conducted in the UK to establish a consensus undergraduate SEM curriculum for medical students.
Study of the Scattering-To-Absorption Ratio in Plasmonic Nanoparicles ‎for‎ Photovoltaic Cells and Sensors Applications
Authors: Daneshfar Nader
Published: March 2021

In this paper‎, ‎the scattering-to-absorption ratio that is a measurable factor and defined as the ratio of the scattering cross section to the absorption cross section in plasmonic core-shell nanoparticles with different shapes is investigated‎. ‎The effect of various plasmonic materials on ‎the scattering-to-absorption ratio is presented that can play a key role in plasmonic solar cell efficiency improvement‎. In addition to using plasmonic materials as silver and gold, we use poor metals as bismuth because this type of metals are good materials for UV plasmonics. We also use semiconductor copper chloride (CuCl) in our calculations, because this material exhibits a strong exciton resonance, while the interaction between the plasmon resonance in metals and the exciton resonance in CuCl leads to new plexcitonic modes.
Full-Length Transcriptomic Identification of R2R3-MYB Family Genes Related to Secondary Cell Wall Development in Cunninghamia Lanceolata (Chinese Fir)
Authors: Zhuang Hebi , Chong Sun-Li , Borah Priyanka , Han Xiao , Lin Erpei , Tong Zaikang , Huang Huahong
Published: March 2021

Background: R2R3-MYB is a class of transcription factor crucial in regulating secondary cell wall development during wood formation. The regulation of wood formation in gymnosperm has been understudied due to its large genome size. Using Single-Molecule Real-Time sequencing, we obtained full-length transcriptomic libraries from the developmental stem of Cunninghamia lanceolata, a perennial conifer known as Chinese fir. The R2R3-MYB of C. lanceolata (hereafter named as ClMYB) associated with secondary wall development were identified based on phylogenetic analysis, expression studies and functional study on transgenic line. Results: The evolutionary relationship of 52 ClMYBs with those from Arabidopsis thaliana, Eucalyptus grandis, Populus trichocarpa, Oryza sativa, two gymnosperm species, Pinus taeda, and Picea glauca were established by neighbour-joining phylogenetic analysis. A large number of ClMYBs resided in the woody-expanded subgroups that predominated with the members from woody dicots. In contrast, the woody-preferential subgroup strictly carrying the members of woody dicots contained only one candidate. The results suggested that the woody-expanded subgroup emerges before the gymnosperm/angiosperm split, while most of the woody-preferential subgroups are likely lineage-specific to woody dicots. Nine candidates shared the same subgroups with the A. thaliana orthologs, with known function in regulating secondary wall development. Gene expression analysis inferred that ClMYB1/2/3/4/5/26/27/49/51 might participate in secondary wall development, among which ClMYB1/2/5/26/27/49 were significantly upregulated in the highly lignified compression wood region, reinforcing their regulatory role associated with secondary wall development. ClMYB1 was experimentally proven a transcriptional activator that localised in the nucleus. The overexpression of ClMYB1 in Nicotiana benthamiana resulted in an increased lignin deposition in the stems. The members of subgroup S4, ClMYB3/4/5 shared the ERF-associated amphiphilic repression motif with AtMYB4, which is known to repress the metabolism of phenylpropanoid derived compounds. They also carried a core motif specific to gymnospermm lineage, suggesting divergence of the regulatory process compared to the angiosperms.Conclusions: This work will enrich the collection of full-length gymnosperm-specific R2R3-MYBs related to stem development and contribute to understanding their evolutionary relationship with angiosperm species.
Study of The Collagen Type VI Alpha 3 (COL6A3) Gene in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Jin Chong-Yao , Zheng Ran , Lin Zhi-Hao , Xue Nai-Jia , Chen Ying , Gao Ting , Yan Yi-Qun , Fang Yi , Yan Ya-Ping , Yin Xin-Zhen , Tian Jun , Pu Jia-Li , Zhang Bao-Rong
Published: March 2021

Background

To date, the genetic contribution to Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains unclear. Mutations in the collagen type VI alpha 3 (COL6A3) gene were recently identified as a cause of isolated dystonia. Since PD and dystonia are closely related disorders with shared clinical and genetic characteristics, we explored the association between COL6A3 and PD in a Chinese cohort.
Methods

We performed genetic screening of COL6A3 in a Chinese cohort of 173 patients with sporadic PD and 200 healthy controls. We identified variants that are likely to have pathogenic effects based on: 1) a minor allele frequency of < 0.01; and 2) the variant being recognized as deleterious by at least 15 different in silico predicting tools. Finally, we tested the aggregate burden of COL6A3 on PD via SKAT-O analysis.
Results

First, we found compound heterozygous COL6A3 gene mutations in one early-onset PD patients. Then, we explored whether COL6A3 variants contributed to increased risk of developing PD in a Chinese population. We detected 21 rare non-synonymous variants. Pathogenicity predictions identified seven novel non-synonymous variants as likely to be pathogenic. SKAT-O analysis further revealed that an aggregate burden of variants in COL6A3 contributes to PD (p = 0.03).
Conclusion

An increased aggregate burden of the COL6A3 gene was detected in patients with PD.
Grain-Growth Mediated Hydrogen Sorption Kinetics and Compensation Effect in Single Pd Nanoparticles
Authors: Alekseeva Svetlana , Strach Michal , Nilsson Sara , Fritzsche Joachim , Zhdanov Vladimir , Langhammer Christoph
Published: March 2021

Grains constitute the building blocks of polycrystalline materials and their boundaries determine bulk physical properties like electrical conductivity, diffusivity and ductility. However, the structure and evolution of grains in nanostructured materials and the role of grain boundaries in reaction or phase transformation kinetics are completely uncharted, despite likely importance in catalysis, batteries and hydrogen energy technology applications. To fill this gap, we investigate the kinetics of (de)hydriding phase transformations in individual Pd nanoparticles. We find dramatic evolution of single particle grain morphology upon cyclic exposure to hydrogen, which we identify as the reason for the observed rapidly slowing sorption kinetics, and as the origin of the observed kinetic compensation effect. This constitutes the first observation of the impact of grain growth on kinetic processes occurring inside nanostructured materials, provides a physically sound mechanistic explanation of kinetic compensation effects, and highlights the importance of single particle experiments for their systematic investigation.
Polymorphisms of Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFRC677T and A1298C) and Probable Depression in Postpartum Period in South Indian Women
Authors: Dhiman Pooja , Pillai Raji , Wilson Anand Babu , Premkumar Nancy , Bharadwaj Balaji , P Veena , Rajendiran Soundravally
Published: March 2021

Background: Two common variants of Methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) are C677T and A1298C, which have been associated with general depression. Main objective of the study was to explore how these functional polymorphisms of MTHFR gene associate with the risk to develop postpartum depression. Method: 434 women were recruited in a study period of 3 years (January 2014 to December 2017) in a tertiary care centre. EPDS was administered at 6 weeks postpartum, with a cut-off score of ≥10 to define probable postpartum depression. Plasma was used for the estimation of circulating vitamin B12 metabolites and whole blood for extraction of DNA. Real time PCR using Taqman probes was used for genotyping the proposed SNP’s. Results: T allele of MTHFR C677T was associated with the risk of probable PPD (p = 0.024, OR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.06-2.62) and presence of suicidal ideations in these women (p<0.001, OR = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.61-5.24). Haplotype 677T-1298A was associated with both the risk of probable PPD (p = 0.029, OR = 1.66; 95% CI: 1.05-2.64) and suicidal ideations (p <0.001, OR = 2.933; 95% CI: 1.60-5.35), whereas 677C-1298A was protective against suicidal ideations (p = 0.011; OR = 0.558; 95% CI: 0.35-0.88). Women with risk allele T were also associated with higher levels of circulating holotranscobalamin levels, and lower levels of vitamin B12, whereas risk allele C of A1298C had lower levels of holotranscobalamin. Limitations: Cross-sectional studyConclusion: Polymorphic variants of MTHFR gene might indicate susceptibility to develop probable depression in postpartum period. SignificanceMTHFR C677T has been widely reported in the literature to be associated with general depression. The association of this variant in susceptibility to develop postpartum depression is not widely studied. We observed T allele of MTHFR C677T to be associated with the risk of to develop depression and suicidal ideation in postpartum period. Higher levels of MMA and holotranscobalamin, and lower levels of vitamin B12 were associated with T allele of MTHFR C677T. Polymorphic variants of MTHFR gene might indicate susceptibility to develop depression in postpartum period.
PEG-fDAO Reduces Lung Inflammation in Chronic Granulomatous Disease Mice Post Challenge with Nonviable Candida Albicans
Authors: Nunoi Hiroyuki , Xie Peiyu , Nakamura Hideaki , Aratani Yasuaki , Fang Jun , Nishimura Toyoki , Kataoka Hiroaki , Maeda Hiroshi , Matsukura Makoto
Published: March 2021

We previously reported that polyethylene glycol-conjugated recombinant porcine D-amino acid oxidase (PEG-pDAO) could supply reactive oxygen species (ROS) to defective NADPH oxidase in neutrophils of patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), and neutrophils regain bactericidal activity in vitro. In the present study, we employed an in vivo nonviable Candida albicans (nCA)-induced lung inflammation model using gp91-phox knockout CGD mice and novel PEG conjugates of Fusarium spp. D-amino acid oxidase (PEG-fDAO), rather than PEG-pDAO. Using three experimentation strategies with the in vivo lung inflammation model, the mouse body weight, lung weight, and lung pathology were evaluated to confirm the efficacy of ROS-generating enzyme replacement therapy with PEG-fDAO. The lung weight and pathological findings were significantly ameliorated by the administration of PEG-fDAO followed by intraperitoneal injection of D-phenylalanine or D-proline. These data suggest that PEG- fDAO with the function of targeted delivery to the nCA-induced inflammation site is applicable in the treatment of inflammation in CGD in vivo.
Engineering Geological and Petrological Characterization of Paleoweathered Rock in The K1/j2 Contact Zone in the Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Zhu Tingen , Li wenping , Wang Qiqing , Hu Yanbo
Published: March 2021

Various geological processes (mineral composition, structure, tectonics and weathering, etc.) affect the physical-mechanical properties of rock. Petrological and engineering geological characteristics of paleoweathered rock (PWR) from the K1/J2 contact zone are described in detail via field investigation and experimental testing. This PWR exhibits mainly sandy grains and mud structures, layered and massive strata, and calcareous and argillaceous cements; fissures are developed and often filled with argillaceous and detrital materials; 9 minerals and 7 oxides are present, and quartz is present in each sample. Long-term weathering results in a consistent bulk density and high porosity due to the transformation of primary minerals into secondary clay minerals, forming PWR that undergoes argillization in water. The axial point load strength (PLS) is the largest among the tested PLSs, followed by the diametral PLS, and the irregular PLS. The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) varies widely, but the results are reliable. The mineralogical, physical and mechanical properties of the PWR are compared to predict one parameter from another and study their mutual influence. The PLS and UCS of the PWR are negatively correlated with the elastic mineral group (EMG) content, weathering alteration indexes, water content, and total porosity and positively correlated with the quartz content, brittle mineral group (BMG) content, bulk density, real density, and longitudinal wave velocity. The UCS and the PLS, axial (diametral) PLS and irregular PLS are positively correlated. These results provide a theoretical basis for physical and mechanical property prediction of PWR masses and rapid estimation of UCS in engineering.
Hydrothermal-alkaline conversion of sewage sludge: Focus on optimization of process parameters and characterization of humic acid
Authors: Qiu Chen , Xu Wenbing , Wang Yanjie , Yang Jiakuan , Su Xintai , Lin Zhang
Published: March 2021

Sewage sludge (SS) dewatering is a key step in sludge disposal, which plays an important role in reducing sludge volume, facilitating transportation and subsequent treatment. In recent years, many studies have focused on sludge hydrothermal dewatering, while resource recovery during this process is less studied, especially humic substances. In this paper, a facile and low-cost hydrothermal-alkaline treatment for SS was proposed, which can be used for sludge dewatering and humic acid (HA) recycling at the same time. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimal conditions, and a mathematical model was established to accurately predict the change of sludge water content and the extraction rate of HA. Under the optimal conditions of 170 °C/42 min/0.05 (for hydrothermal temperature, hydrothermal time and mass ratio of KOH to wet sludge, respectively), the water content decreased to 46.7% and the extraction rate of HA (with a purity of 96.2%) was 89.1%. The improvement of the dewatering performance effectively facilitates the subsequent disposal of the sludge. The extraction of HA not only solves the problem that the sludge separation liquid needs further treatment, but also has potential economic value in agriculture, biological medicine, environment and other fields.
Potassium Modified Carbon Nitride as a Highly Efficient and Recyclable Catalyst in Knoevenagel Reaction
Authors: Di Jia-Qi , Chen Yu-Xuan , Zhang Zhanhui
Published: March 2021

A simple calcination method has been developed to prepare potassium-doped carbon nitride (K-CN). The prepared K-CN was characterized and analyzed by fourier infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), powder X-ray diffraction technology (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and other techniques. It has been proved to be a green and recyclable catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation of benzaldehydes with malononitrile. The reaction system has the characteristics of mild reaction conditions, simple operation, and environmental protection. The catalyst still maintains high catalytic activity and excellent chemical stability after being recycled for six times.
Refinement of future Arctic sea-ice projections
Authors: Docquier David , Koenigk Torben
Published: March 2021

Arctic sea ice has been retreating at unprecedented pace over the past decades. Model projections show that the Arctic Ocean could be almost ice free in summer by the middle of this century. However, the uncertainties related to these projections are relatively large. Here we use 33 global climate models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 6 (CMIP6) in order to reduce these uncertainties. We select the models that best capture the observed Arctic sea-ice area and volume and northward ocean heat transport to refine model projections of Arctic sea ice. This model selection leads to smaller Arctic sea-ice area and volume relative to the multi-model mean without model selection and summer ice-free conditions could occur as early as around 2035. These results highlight a potential underestimation of the future Arctic sea-ice loss when including all models.
Rhizophagus Proliferus Genome Sequence Reiterates Conservation of Genetic Traits in AM Fungi, but Predicts Putative Higher Saprotrophic Activity
Authors: Singh Pushplata Prasad , Srivast Divya , Shukla Sadhana , - Varsha , Adholeya Alok
Published: March 2021

Unavailability of the genome sequences of several species of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi limits the opportunities for optimizing these biofertilizer species for agricultural benefits. The present work comprises the first draft of the genome sequence of Rhizophagus proliferus, which is an important AM species present in biofertilizer consortia for agricultural purpose. The estimated genome size of Rhizophagus proliferus is ~ 110 Mbps and the created genomic assembly using the paired-end Illumina reads is 94.35% complete. Genome mining was carried out to identify putative gene families important for biological functions. A total of #22,526 protein-coding genes were estimated in the genome, with an abundance of kinases and reduced number of glycoside hydrolases as compared to other fungal classes. A striking finding in the R. proliferus genome was a higher number of carbohydrate esterases (CE), which may suggest towards presence of higher saprotrophic activity in this species as compared to the previously reported AM fungi. The genome sequence and annotation of R. proliferus presented here would serve as an important reference for functional genomics studies required for developing biofertilizer formulations in future. In addition, the findings from this work may also prove important in deciphering molecular mechanisms in AM fungi that govern the host-specific interaction and associated agriculture benefits.
Effect of Time of Cord Clamping on Serum Bilirubin Level among Full Term Babies Born at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital: A Three Arm Randomized Control Trial.
Authors: Tesfaye Biruk Hailu , Gebremariam Mulugeta Betre , Estifanos Abiy Seifu , Gebremedhin Asrat D.
Published: March 2021

Background

Delayed cord clamping (DCC) above one minute is associated with nutritional and developmental benefits for newborns. DCC could also lead to elevated serum bilirubin, leading to jaundice that require phototherapy at the early ages of life. However, evidence on the relationship between DCC and outcomes is limited in resource-limited settings.
Objective

To evaluate the effect of the time of cord clamping on serum bilirubin level at 24 hours post-birth in an Ethiopian Tertiary Care hospital.
Methods

A three-arm, single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted between October 2019-January 2020 targeting healthy, full-term neonates. Study participants were randomly assigned into one of the following interventions depending on the timing of cord clamping: immediate cord clamping (< 30 seconds), intermediate cord clamping (60 sec), and delayed cord clamping (180 seconds). The primary outcome is serum bilirubin level in the newborns, which was assessed at 24−hour after birth and before they were discharged home.
Descriptive analysis was applied to
assess differences between groups in terms of demographic,
obstetric, and social characteristics of participants, while a
linear regression model was employed to examine the association
between cord clamping time and serum bilirubin level.
STATA version 14 was used for statistical analyses.
Result

A total of 141 term newborns were included and randomized into the three categories. Demographic, social and obstetrics factors of the women were not different across groups except labor duration that had a P-value < 0.05. Time of cord clamping was not a significant predictor of total serum bilirubin levels at 24 hours post-birth, whereas cord blood total serum bilirubin (coef. 0.24; p < 0.05) and bilirubin nomogram high-risk zone (Coef. 6.25; p < 0.001) were significant predictors.
Conclusion

Time of umbilical cord clamping does not affect the total serum bilirubin level of neonates at least within 24 hours of birth.
Bleeding In Head And Neck Malignancy : Institution Based Management And Review
Authors: Saldanha Elroy , Jain Amar , Patel Dhruv , Joseph Bonny , Ghosh Sandeep , Dhakad Vinod , Desai Sanjay
Published: March 2021

Introduction:Squamous cell carcinoma constitutes for >90% of head and neck cancers. Acute rupture of irradiated, large vessels is life-threatening complication. The distribution of bleeding foci is diverse and can range from internal or common carotid arteries to branches of the external carotid artery. We intend to assess the management of patients presented in our institution with such acute bleeding episodes and also review the management of carotid blowout syndrome which is an oncological emergency.Methods:Retrospective observational study of 27 cases presented in our institution with acute bleeding due to head and neck cancer for period of two years. After resuscitation and necessary consents, emergency open tracheostomy was done with universal precautions. ECA/CCA ligation was done. All the patients were started on low molecular weight heparin 8 hours post surgery. Therapeutic outcomes were assessed based on simple frequencies and proportions.Results:Of the 27 cases presented in our institution, 19 of them underwent ECA ligation while 8 of them CCA ligation for the control of active bleeding. 12 of 27 patients were receiving definitive chemoradiation of which 7 of them were ongoing. Remaining 15 patients were receiving adjuvant radiotherapy following surgery.19 patients who underwent ECA ligation, had no further bleeding episodes. 8 patients who underwent CCA ligation, had only wound related complications and none of them had neurological deficits. 11 patients were operated during covid-19 period. 4 patients turned out covid positive. None of the medical personnel contacted the infection.Conclusion:Radiotherapy is one the major contributor for CBS. Endovascular procedures can be used for local tumour bleed, threatened, impending and stable acute CBS. Surgical CCA ligation done in bleeds unsuccessful by endovascular procedure and in acute unstable CBS. ECA ligation is safe and effective method to control local tumor bleed. Surgical finesse, careful planning, adherence to universal precautions and institutional protocol can reduce Covid-19 transmission to medical personnel in this testing times.
Effect of EPA on Hsp 90 and GRα Protein Expression in Multiple Myeloma Drug-resistant Cells
Authors: Wu Shenghao , Chen Yuemiao , Wang Xueshuang , Weng Shanshan , Zhou Wenjin , Liu Zhen
Published: March 2021

BackgroundApproximately 20% of MM patients harbor glucocorticoid(GC) resistance and are not responsive to therapeutic effect. Chaperoneheat-shock proteins Hsp90 is needed for ligand docking, The imbalance of Hsp90/GRα(glucocorticoid receptor α) may be an important cause of GC resistance. Recent studies have indicated that EPA could repress cancer cell growth by regulating critical influential factors in progression of cancer, consisting of resistance to drugs, chemosensitivity. The aim of the present study was to test the cytotoxic effects of EPA alone or EPA+Dexamethasone in dexamethasone-resistant MM cell(MM.1R) and investigate whether DHA can induce apoptosis and reverse acquired glucocorticoid resistance in dexamethasone-resistant MM cell(MM.1R).MethodsCell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to detect the proliferation of MM.1R cells after treating with EPA alone and EPA combined with DEX. Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured by flow cytometry and GRα and Hsp90 protein expression were assessed by western blot analysis.ResultsEPA alone was able to inhibit cell proliferation as evidenced by CCK-8 assay and the tumor growth was remarkably suppressed by EPA+Dexamethasone, Cell apoptosis after EPA treatment was obviously observed by Flow cytometry analysis of the mitochondrial membrane potential. Analysis of Hsp90 and GRα proteins in MM.1R cells incubated with EPA revealed down-regulation of Hsp90 and up-regulation of GRα. Accordingly, the Hsp90/GRα ratio was significantly decreased with the increase of EPA concentration. ConclusionsEPA might be used as a new effective treatment for reversal of glucocorticoid-resistance in multiple myeloma.