bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High order direct parametrisation of invariant manifolds for model order reduction of finite element structures: application to generic forcing terms and parametrically excited systems
Authors: Opreni Andrea , Vizzaccaro Alessandra , Touzé Cyril , Frangi Attilio
Published: February 2022

The direct parametrisation method for invariant manifolds is used for model order reduction of forced-damped mechanical structures subjected to geometric nonlinearities. Nonlinear mappings are introduced, allowing one to pass from the degrees of freedom of the finite-element model to the normal coordinates. Arbitrary order of expansions are considered for the unknown mappings and the reduced dynamics, which are then solved sequentially through the homological equations, for both autonomous and time-dependent terms. It is emphasized that the two problems share a similar structure, which can be used for an efficient implementation of the non-autonomous added terms. A special emphasis is also put on the new resonance conditions arising due to the presence of the external forcing frequencies, which allows predicting phenomena such as parametric excitation and isolas formation. The method is then applied to structures of academic and industrial interest. First, the large amplitude vibrations of a forceddamped cantilever beam are studied. This example highlights that high order non-autonomous terms are compulsory to correctly estimate the maximum vibration amplitude experienced by the structure. The birth of isolated solutions is also illustrated on this example. The cantilever is then used to show how quadratic coupling creates conditions for the excitation of the parametric instability, all these features being correctly embedded in the reduction process. A shallow arch excited with multi-modal forcing is then studied to detail different forcing effects. Finally, the approach is validated on a structure of industrial relevance, i.e. a comb driven micro-electro-mechanical resonator. The accuracy and computational performance reported suggest that the proposed methodology can accurately predict the nonlinear dynamic response of a large class of nonlinear vibratory systems.
Prevalence of Dry Eye Disease Among Chinese High School Students During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Lin Feng , Cai Yuying , Fei Xinfeng , Wang Yimin , Zhou Minwen , Liu Yan
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) and relevant risk factors among Chinese high school students during the COVID-19 outbreak.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted from November to December 2020, and 4825 high school students from nine high schools in Shanghai were recruited. All students completed ocular surface disease index (OSDI) and perceived stress scale (PSS) questionnaires and answered other questions designed to ascertain information on the risk factors related to DED. DED was diagnosed when OSDI scores were greater than or equal to 13. The prevalence of symptomatic DED was determined. A T-test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis were used to examine the possible risk factors.Results:The prevalence of symptomatic DED among Chinese high school students was 70.5%. In univariate analysis, higher PSS scores (P<0.001), prolonged video display terminal (VDT) use (P<0.001), wearing contact lenses (P=0.001), poor sleep quality (P<0.001), and being female (P<0.001) were significantly correlated with dry eyes. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, higher PSS scores (P<0.001, OR=1.20), prolonged VDT use (P<0.001, OR=1.07), poor sleep quality (P<0.001, OR=1.84), and being female (P=0.001, OR=1.25) were significant risk factors associated with DED.Conclusions:Due to the epidemic, most Chinese high school students are in a high-risk environment in which they are more likely to suffer from DED, such as long online courses and heavy stress from school. Relevant preventive measures that may have a positive impact on public health and quality of life for high school students should be brought to the forefront.
Facile low power preparation and Hyperthermia studies of Maghemite nanoparticles synthesized by Sonochemical method
Authors: P Sumangala T , M Janeesh George , V Meera , Sahu Niroj Kumar
Published: February 2022

Using inexpensive and nontoxic metal salt (FeSO 4 ·7H 2 O) as a reactant, γ-Fe 2 O 3 (maghemite) nanoparticles with crystallite size around 80 nm have been synthesized in an aqueous medium by low power, low temperature and simple sonochemical method. XRD, Rietveld refinement and Williamson-Hall method was employed for understanding the structure of the synthesized sample. FTIR spectra were recorded for studying the presence of organics. MT measurement performed at 500 Oe showed that the sample exhibit a magnetization of about 34 emu/g at 300K and hence can be used for magnetic hyperthermia treatment (MHT). Calorimetric studies performed showed an improvement in temperature up to 12 °C with a minimum time of 210s. Specific absorption rate calculation showed that sample with minimum concentration is better for MHT.
The biological effects of fermented camel milk fortified with sage (Salvia officinalis L.) and mint (Mentha piperita) leaves powder on alloxan-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Shahein Magdy Ramadan , Elmeligy Abdelmoneim Ahmed , El-Sayed Mahmoud Ibrahim
Published: February 2022

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic condition described by persistent hyperglycemia due to low secretion of insulin, insulin resistance, or a combination of both. Many studies suggested the potential anti-diabetic effect of camel milk and the important role of the bioactive components of mint and sage in decreasing the side effects of diabetes disease. This study was designed to assess the anti-diabetic potential of fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder (1 and 1.5%) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Forty-two adult normal male albino rats were taken for the study where one group was kept as the non-diabetic control group (6 rats) while others 36 rats were made diabetic by alloxan injection (150 mg/kg of body weight). Among diabetic rats, a control (+) group (6 rats) was kept and referred to as diabetic control whereas the other 5 groups (7rats each) of diabetic rats were fed on fermented camel milk (FCM) or fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder( 1 and 1.5%). Results: The oral administration of fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder caused a significant decreased in blood glucose level and lipid profile, and increased in insulin level compared to the control (+) and FCM groups, and the best results were observed with fermented camel milk fortified with 1.5% sage powder. The results also found that the fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder improved the liver and kidney functions of diabetic rats. Importantly, treatment of diabetic animals fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder resulted in significant amelioration of the histopathological changes of pancreatic, liver, and kidney observed in diabetic animals. Conclusion: Our study recommends the use of sage and mint leaves powder (at a ratio of 1.5%) with fermented camel milk to produce functional food products with anti-diabetic activity.
Simultaneous Genomic and Metagenomic Analysis for Miscarriage and Stillbirth Further Increases the Diagnostic Utility of Genome Sequencing
Authors: Scott Hamish , Byrne Alicia , Arriola Luis , Eshraghi Leila , Ha Thuong , Feng Jinghhua , Babic Milena , Nguyen Hung , Ludington Eleanor , King-Smith Sarah , Parker Wendy , Kenyon Rosalie , Ritchie Brett , Lipsett Jillian , Manton Nick , Khong T , Moore Lynette , Arts Peer , Barnett Christopher , Schreiber Andreas
Published: February 2022

Congenital abnormalities and infections are the predominant cause of perinatal death in developed countries. While standard-of-care autopsy investigations can ascertain the event that caused the death, the aetiology cannot always be established. Genetic approaches have demonstrated utility in identifying the underlying causes of congenital anomalies and infectious diseases, but the feasibility of simultaneous metagenomic and genomic analyses has not been examined. To determine the potential of this consolidated approach, genome sequencing was performed on DNA from lung in 20 cases of fetal death. Causative microbes were correctly identified in 4/7 known infection cases and plausible causative microbes identified for 2/5 cases unresolved from standard investigations. No significant microbial load was identified in 8/8 cases due to congenital abnormality. While methods for concurrent human and microbial genome analyses still require optimisation, this dual approach should improve the diagnostic yield compared to current standard-of-care investigations, enabling more accurate counselling and appropriate care in subsequent pregnancies.
Mechanical and microstructural characterization of titanium gr.5 parts produced by different manufacturing routes
Authors: Campanella Davide , Buffa Gianluca , Hassanin Andrea El , Squillace Antonino , Gagliardi Francesco , Filice Luigino , Fratini Livan
Published: February 2022

In recent years, the aircraft industry has shifted its preference for metal parts to titanium and its alloys, such as the high-strength Titanium Grade5 alloy. Because of Titanium Grade 5 limited formability at ambient temperature, forming operations on this material require high temperatures. In these conditions, a peculiar microstructure evolves as a result of the heating and deformation cycles, which has a significant impact on formability and product quality. On the other hand, additive manufacturing technologies, as selective laser melting and electron beam melting, are increasingly being used and are replacing more traditional approaches such as machining and forging. Fundamental parts characteristics as mechanical and microstructural properties, geometric accuracy and surface quality strongly depend on the selection of the manufacturing method. The authors of this paper seek to identify the strengths and limitations imposed by the intrinsic characteristics of different manufacturing alternatives for the production of parts of aeronautical significance, providing guidelines for the choice of the most appropriate manufacturing route for given application and part design.
Body Shape Phenotypes And Breast Cancer Risk: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis.
Authors: Noray Laia Peruchet , Dimou Niki , Sedlmeier Anja M. , Fervers Béatrice , Romieu Isabelle , Viallon Vivian , Gunter Marc J. , Ferrari Pietro , Carreras-Torres Robert , Freisling Heinz
Published: February 2022

Background: Observational and genetic studies have linked different anthropometric traits to breast cancer risk, with inconsistent results. We aimed to investigate the association between body shape defined by principal component (PC) analysis of anthropometric traits (body mass index (BMI), height, weight, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist and hip circumference) and overall breast cancer risk and by sub-type (luminal A, luminal B, HER2+, triple negative and luminal B/HER2 negative). Methods: We performed two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses to assess the association between 188 genetic variants robustly linked to the first three PCs and breast cancer (133,384 combined pre- and post-menopausal cases/113,789 controls from the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC)). Results: PC1 (general adiposity) was inversely associated with overall breast cancer risk (odds ratio (OR) 0.89 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81-0.98]; p-value = 0.016). PC2 (tall with low WHR) was weakly positively associated with overall breast cancer risk (OR = 1.05 [95% CI: 0.98-1.12]; p-value = 0.135), but with a confidence interval including the null. PC3 (tall with large WHR) was not associated with overall breast cancer risk. Some of these associations differed by breast cancer sub-types. For instance, PC2 was positively associated with risk of luminal A breast cancer sub-type (OR = 1.09 [95% CI: 1.01-1.18]; p-value = 0.02).Conclusions: Our study provides evidence for potential causal associations between body shape and breast cancer risk and breast cancer sub-types highlighting the importance to also assess body morphology holistically.
Prolonging Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Improves Long-term Prognosis in Diabetic Patients Undergoing Complex Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Drug-eluting Stents
Authors: Jingjing Xu , Sida Jia , Pei Zhu , Ying Song , Deshan Yuan , Xueyan Zhao , Yi Yao , Lin Jiang , Jianxin Li , Yin Zhang , Lei Song , Lijian Gao , Shubin Qiao , Yuejin Yang , Bo Xu , Runlin Gao , Yaling Han , Jinqing Yuan
Published: February 2022

Background The optimal dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains controversial, especially for patients at high risk of ischemic events. Diabetes mellitus (DM) and complex coronary interventions have been considered as high risk factors for ischemic events. We aim to investigate if prolonging DAPT duration in diabetic patients after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation can reduce long-term adverse events.Methods This study is an observational cohort study carried out in the largest cardiovascular center in China. 10,724 patients who underwent PCI from January, 2013 to December, 2013 were consecutively enrolled. The inclusion criteria included: documented history of DM; underwent DES implantation; free of adverse events within 1 year after operation; and had at least one high thrombotic risk technical aspects. These patients were divided into three groups according to DAPT duration: Standard group (11 ≤ DAPT ≤ 13 months) and prolonged group (13 < DAPT ≤ 24 months; DAPT > 24 months). Baseline characteristics and 5-year clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results A total of 2,403 diabetic patients with complex PCI were included in the current analysis (Standard DAPT n=689; Prolonged DAPT n=1714). Baseline and angiographic characteristics, and complexity of PCI were comparable among patients with different DAPT durations. Patients in 13<DAPT≤24 months group had lowest incidence of MACCE, all cause death and cardiac death. After adjustment of confounding factors, the 13-24 months DAPT duration was related with lower risk of MACCE (HR: 0.544, 95%CI: 0.373-0.795) and all cause death (HR: 0.605, 95%CI: 0.387-0.944). DAPT duration >24 months was related with lower risk of all-cause death (HR: 0.681, 95%CI: 0.493-0.942) and cardiac death (HR: 0.620, 95%CI: 0.403-0.952). Prolonging DAPT duration did not increase the risk of major bleeding (1324 months: HR: 0.967, 95%CI: 0.682-1.371).Conclusions For diabetic patients undergoing complex PCI, prolonging DAPT duration might improve long-term prognosis by reducing the risk of adverse ischemia events and without increasing the risk of bleeding.
Gaining insights in datasets in the shade of “garbage in, garbage out” rationale: feature-space distribution fitting
Authors: Canbek Gürol
Published: February 2022

This article emphasises the negative effect of the “Garbage In, Garbage Out” (GIGO) rationale and the importance of ensuring the dataset quality in Machine Learning (ML) based classification applications to achieve high and generalisable performance. Researchers should integrate the insights gained by quantitative analysis of the datasets’ sample and feature spaces into the initial ML workflow. As a specific contribution towards achieving such a goal, a complete approach was suggested to quantify datasets in terms of feature frequency distribution characteristics (i.e. how the features in the available samples comprising the datasets are frequent?). The approach was demonstrated in eleven benign and malign (malware) Android application datasets belonging to six academic Android mobile malware classification studies. The permissions requested by the applications such as CALL_PHONE compose a relatively high-dimensional binary-feature space. The results have shown that the distributions fit well into two of the four long right-tail statistical distributions: log-normal, exponential, power law, and Poisson. Precisely, log-normal was the most exhibited statistical distribution except the two malign datasets that were in exponential. This study also explores statistical distribution fit/unfit feature analysis enhancing the insights in feature space. Further, the study compiles phenomena examples in the literature exhibiting these statistical distributions that should be considered for interpreting the fitted distributions. In conclusion, conducting well-formed statistical methods provides a clear understanding of the datasets and the intra-class and inter-class differences before proceeding with selecting features and building a classifier model. Feature distribution characteristics should be the one to analyse beforehand.
A Th2-score in the tumor microenvironment as a predictive biomarker of response to BCG in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder carcinoma. A retrospective study.
Authors: Villoldo Gustavo Martín , Pombo María Teresa , Aris Mariana , Chemi Joaquín , Mandó Pablo , Nagaraju Supriya , Camean Juan , Burioni Adrián , Egea Deborah , Amat Mora , Mellado José León , Mordoh José , Villaronga Alberto , Barrio María Marcela
Published: February 2022

Intravesical BCG is the gold standard therapy for intermediate/high-risk NMIBC. However, the response rate is ~60%, and 50% of non-responders will progress to muscle invasive disease. BCG induces massive local infiltration of inflammatory cells (Th1), and ultimately cytotoxic tumor elimination. We searched for a predictive biomarker of BCG response by analyzing TILs polarization in the TME in pre-treatment biopsies. Materials and Methods: Pre-treatment biopsies from patients with NMIBC who received adequate intravesical instillations of BCG (n=32) were evaluated retrospectively by immunohistochemistry. TME polarization was assessed by quantifying the T-Bet+ (Th1) and GATA-3+ (Th2) lymphocyte ratio (G/T), and the density and degranulation of EPX+ eosinophils. In addition, PD-1/PD-L1 staining was quantified. The results correlated with the BCG response. In most nonresponders, Th1/Th2 markers were compared in pre-and post-BCG biopsies.ORR was 65.6% in the study population. BCG responders had a higher G/T ratio and higher number of degranulated EPX+ cells. Variables combined into a Th2-score showed a significant association with higher scores in responders (p=0.027). A Th2-score cut-off value >48.1 allowed discrimination of responders with 91% sensitivity, but with lower specificity. Relapse-free survival was significantly associated with the Th2-score (p=0.007). In post-BCG biopsies from recurring patients, TILs increased Th2-polarization, probably reflecting BCG failure to induce a pro-inflammatory status and, thus, a lack of response. PD-L1/PD-1 expression was not associated with the BCG response.Our results support the hypothesis that a pre-existing Th2-polarized TME predicts a better response to BCG, assuming a reversion to Th1 polarization and antitumor activity.
Mathematics and science teacher’s conception and reflection on computer programming with scratch: Technological and pedagogical standpoint
Authors: Iyamuremye Aloys
Published: February 2022

The current study investigates teachers' conception and reflection of computer programming from scratch in terms of technological and pedagogical standpoint. Mixed research approaches typically achievement tests and interviews were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data respectively. A total of twenty-one Mathematics and Science teachers were randomly selected to participate in the study. A paired t-test was used to analyze quantitative data from pre and post-test, while descriptive and interpretive analyses were used to analyze qualitative data from the interview. The results of the study showed that Mathematic and Sciences teachers have a great conception of scratch programming after attending scratch programming. There was a significant difference in mean between pre and post-test (p ˂ 0.05). It was also found that scratch is an effective pedagogical tool for teaching and learning Mathematics and Sciences. In addition, teachers express positive views of using scratch in teaching and learning Mathematics and Sciences as it helps them to visualize abstract content, motivate students, increase students' interest, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, act as an assessment tool and increase student's academic performance.
Simulating Post-disaster Temporary Housing Needs for Displaced Households and Out-of-town Contractors
Authors: Wang Chenbo , Costa Rodrigo , Baker Jack
Published: February 2022

Residential damage from major disasters often displaces local residents out of their homes and into temporary housing. Out-of-town contractors assisting in post-disaster housing recovery also need housing, creating additional pressure on the local housing stock. Communities should thus prepare for a surge in temporary housing demand to minimize the impact on the local residents and to expedite housing recovery efforts. Computational models can support recovery planning. This paper introduces an agent-based simulation framework to estimate the workforce demand and the joint temporary housing needs of contractors and displaced households. The main agents are households seeking to repair their homes, local contractors, and out-of-town contractors. Out-of-town contractor agents come into the community if the labor and housing markets are favorable. The framework can be used to evaluate the resulting challenges and benefits of interventions aimed at attracting out-of-town contractors to expedite housing recovery. We present a case study on the housing recovery of the city of San Francisco after hypothetical M6.5, M7.2, and M7.9 earthquakes. A shortage of contractors is shown to bottleneck the reconstruction if no out-of-town contractors are recruited. Conversely, out-of-town contractors increase the likelihood of temporary housing shortages. These results highlight the need to plan for shortages of reconstruction labor and temporary housing during recovery.
A CRISPR interference strategy for gene expression silencing in multiple myeloma cell lines
Authors: Poch Enric , Escrivá-Fernández Josep , Cueto-Ureña Cristina , Lledó Elisa , Ballester-Lurbe Begoña
Published: February 2022

Background: Multiple myeloma is the second most common hematologic neoplasm which is characterized by proliferation and infiltration of plasmatic cells in the bone marrow. Currently, MM is considered incurable due to treatment resistance. The CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system has been recently used in several cell lines and mouse models to understand the role of various genetic alterations in pathogenesis of hematologic malignancies. Despite the recent advances of gene edition tools, the use of CRISPR/Cas9 technology for gene editing of MM have not so far been extended. In this work, we want to repress Rnd3 expression, an atypical Rho GTPase involved in several cellular processes, in MM cell lines using a CRISPR interference strategy. Results: We have designed different guide RNAs and cloning them into a lentiviral plasmid, which contain all the machinery necessary for develop the CRISPR interference strategy. We co-transfected the HEK 293T cells with this lentiviral plasmid and 3rd generation lentiviral envelope and packaging plasmids for the production of lentiviral particles. The lentiviral particles were used to transduce two different multiple myeloma cell lines, RPMI 8226 and JJN3, and downregulate Rnd3 expression.Conclusions: We have developed a CRISPR interference strategy to generate stable Rnd3 knockdown MM cell lines by lentiviral transduction. We have evaluated this strategy in two MM cell lines and we have demonstrated that Rnd3 silencing works both at transcriptional and protein level. Therefore, we propose CRISPR interference strategy as an alternative tool to silence gene expression in MM cell lines.
Patient with recurrent fracture of osteosynthetic plate-association with the composition of osteosynthetic material and its fractographical study: a case report
Authors: Voves Jiří , Čabanová Kristina , Židlík Vladimír , Matějková Petra , Olšovská Eva , Smejkal Tomáš , Havlíček Miroslav , Madeja Roman
Published: February 2022

BackgroundThis case report deals with a twice reoperated patient with right clavicle fracture at the same position within 5 months. The report was divided in to three parts. Case presentationIn the first part the description of both injuries and the methods of their treatment are provided: i) The patient suffered a fracture of the right clavicle which was fixed using Ti LCP-SCP plate (Locking Compression Plate - Superior Clavicle Plate). ii) Another accident occurred after five months which resulted with the refracture of the right clavicle and bending of the osteosynthetic material requiring the reoperation of the patient again using the Ti LCP-SCP plate iii) After seven months, the patient arrived at the hospital indicating the pain in the right clavicle, whereas the fracture of the osteosynthetic material was detected. This last fracture was fixed again with Ti LCP-SCP plate in combination with two lag screws cross sectionally positioned.ConclusionWhereas second and third parts are focused on the complex evaluation of osteosynthetic material and the tissue observations of this medical case. The second part is focused on the evaluation of the osteosynthetic material and a its fractographical study. The third part of the case report is devoted to the microscopic analysis of the metal particles found in tissues in positions of the contacts with osteosynthetic material.
Recurrence of an aggressive sacral hemangioma with atypical radiological features after surgical resection: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Guan-Xi , Chen Yun-Qing , Wang Yan , wang Bin , Zhou Rui-Zhi , Gao Chuan-Ping
Published: February 2022

Background: Aggressive vertebral hemangiomas (VHs) are uncommon in adults. Although most have typical radiographic features, some present with atypical findings, which makes their diagnosis difficult. Aggressive VHs have a high likelihood of recurrence even after resection.Case presentation: A 52-year-old woman presented with a 3-month history of right lower extremity pain and numbness. On physical examination, the sacrum was tender, her mobility was limited, and right plantar flexion strength was 4/5 on manual muscle testing. Computed tomography (CT) revealed osteolytic bony destruction from S1 to S2. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a sacral mass invading the S1 vertebral endplate and compressing the dural sac; the mass was heterogeneously hypointense on T1-weighted imaging, hyperintense on T2-weighted imaging, and heterogeneously enhanced. Six months after surgical resection of the mass, the patient presented with back pain and bilateral extremity numbness. MRI showed lesion recurrence with thecal sac compression.Conclusions: Aggressive VHs may exhibit atypical radiological findings that include osteolytic vertebral bony destruction, spinal canal extension, heterogeneous signal intensity on T1- and T2-weighted imaging, and heterogeneous enhancement. These can make accurate preoperative diagnosis difficult; biopsy may be necessary. Surgical decompression and resection are recommended for aggressive VHs. Nonetheless, recurrence may still occur despite resection.
Metastatic basal cell carcinoma of buccal mucosa: A report of a rare case
Authors: Kimura Taku , Sakata Ken-ichiro , Sato Jun , Ouchi Chisato , Ohga Noritaka , Yanagawa-Matsuda Aya , Hida Kyoko , Kitagawa Yoshimasa
Published: February 2022

Background: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cancer worldwide. Most of BCCs can be detected in the early stages and are generally well controlled with local resection. Despite the high incidence of BCC, metastasis is rarely observed. Metastatic BCCs generally have an aggressive phenotype and are refractory to conventional treatment.Case presentation: We describe a rare case of BCC in which a series of local relapses culminated in metastasis into the oral cavity 10 years after the first diagnosis of cutaneous BCC. We performed surgical resection and postoperative radiotherapy in this patient; 11 months after the final course of radiotherapy, the BCC remains stable, and the patient continues to be monitored regularly.Conclusions: Because metastatic BCC is refractory to current treatment and difficult to control, his treatment history and the pathohistological features of BCC had to be considered in posttreatment planning.
Chromatin state distribution of residue-specific histone acetylation in early myoblast differentiation
Authors: Li Qiao , Li Yuan , Khilji Saadia , Chen Jihong
Published: February 2022

Dynamic changes in epigenetic landscape reflect a critical command of lineage-specific gene expression. In an effort to discern the epigenetic regulatory networks of myogenic differentiation, we have used systematic and integrated approaches to explore multi-omics datasets on global myogenic gene expression, histone acetylation and acetyltransferase occupancy in view of distinct chromatin states. In this brief report, we present a comprehensive assessment regarding the experimental design, quality control, filtering steps and data processing. We also define a gene-level overlap between RNA-seq and ChIP-seq datasets through integrated analyses to offer strategies for future use of the data. Furthermore, our analyses provide a blueprint of chromatin states associated with residue-specific histone acetylation, histone acetyltransferase p300-concomitant epigenetic landscape in committed skeletal myoblasts and differential histone acetylation signatures in early myoblast differentiation. These datasets can be further utilized to delineate the function of muscle-specific regulatory elements governed by other muscle myogenic regulators or signaling molecules.
Estimating the Carbon Content of Oceans using Satellite Sensor Data
Authors: Sooknanan Aadidev , Hosein Patrick
Published: February 2022

The impact of chemical processes in ocean surface waters is far-reaching. Recently, increased significance has been placed on the concentration of Carbon and its compounds and the effects these may have on climate change. Remote-sensing enables near real-time measurement of key sea-surface data which can be used to estimate Carbon levels. We illustrate with the use of hybrid Satellite sensor data. To validate our results we use data collected from cruise ships as the ground truth when training our algorithms. The error rate of our predictor is found to be small and hence the proposed approach can be used to estimate Carbon levels in any ocean. This work improves upon previous research in many ways including the use of sea water salinity as a proxy for Carbon estimates. Binary combinations of typically unary predictor attributes are used for the purposes of predicting the Carbon content of surface water and an inherently non-linear model is used to quantify the relationship.
A Massive Retroperitoneal Tumor – An Unusual Presentation of a Rare Primary Pancreatic Neoplasm
Authors: Clegg Devin J. , Hammond Ryan , Schmocker Ryan K. , Sauls Ryan , Duncan Lisa , Enomoto Laura M.
Published: February 2022

Background:The differential diagnosis for retroperitoneal masses is broad, and includes pancreatic lipomatous hamartoma, a rare but benign disease process. Hamartoma describes outgrowth of tissue native to the organ in which it occurs and is considered a malformation rather than a true neoplasm. Pancreatic hamartomas consist of less than 1% of all hamartomas, and few cases of pancreatic lipomatous tumors with distinct components of pancreatic hamartoma have been described. These tumors are difficult to diagnose on imaging and biopsy alone and can appear malignant with potential for significant mass effect on surrounding organs, leading to surgical intervention for definitive diagnosis. Case Presentation:A 57-year-old male presented with right upper quadrant pain radiating to his left side and back. Ultrasound demonstrated cholelithiasis and an incidentally discovered large retroperitoneal mass. Computed tomography (CT) imaging demonstrated a 14.4 x 4.6 x 16 cm heterogenous, fatty-appearing retroperitoneal mass displacing the colon and small bowel, while abutting the aorta and inferior vena cava (IVC) with no obvious invasion of surrounding structures. He underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with biopsy of the mass. Biopsy demonstrated benign adipose tissue and no evidence of malignancy, and his care was transferred to our facility. His postoperative course was complicated by acute congestive heart failure that ultimately delayed definitive surgical intervention for nine months. Progressive growth of the mass was noted on serial imaging as his cardiopulmonary status was optimized. Preoperative CT revealed a 20.2 x 28.2 x 14.1 cm with worsened mass effect on surrounding structures.The patient underwent open resection of the retroperitoneal mass with en bloc resection of the third and fourth portions of the duodenum and the uncinate process of the pancreas. The final pathologic diagnosis was benign lipomatous proliferation with features most consistent with pancreatic lipomatous hamartoma (PLH), with specimen weight of 3810g and overall dimensions of 35 x 27 x 14 cm.Conclusions:PLH is an extremely rare benign tumor, which is notoriously difficult to diagnose with imaging and biopsy alone. This case highlights the difficulty delineating benign from malignant tumors of the pancreas and retroperitoneum.
1,200 Years of NAO-modelled European Climate History
Authors: Morando Marco
Published: February 2022

In his previous article “Arctic Sea Ice’s Amplification as a Complement to Anthropogenic Global Warming”, the author considered the amplification of solar radiation variations, via Arctic Sea’s ice cover albedo, as forcing to climate change. The same model is used here to extend the data input from the period 1200–2100 AD of the previous study to the period 800–2160 AD. In addition, the present study reconstructs the North Atlantic Oscillation index across the 1,200-year period. Based on its correlation with temperature and precipitation, the model reconstructs the climate anomalies due to NAO in several different European and neighbouring regions and sums them to the previous article’s results. The regional overall results of the model are compared with quantitative and qualitative benchmarks from literature, to evaluate the level of accuracy in simulating the historical data. Therefore, the aim of this article is not only to present the modelled results, but also to relate them to the major climatic and agricultural events of European history.
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infection is associated with high nasopharyngeal viral load
Authors: Salvagno Gian Luca , Henry Brandon M. , Pighi Laura , De Nitto Simone , Montagnana Martina , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: February 2022

Background: We provide here direct comparison of viral load in nasopharyngeal specimens of patients infected by Omicron and former severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the results of SARS-CoV-2 testing conducted during two corresponding periods of years 2021 and 2022 (i.e., between 3-9 January), characterized by local prevalence of Alpha (>95%; January 2021) and Omicron (>90%; January 2022) SARS-CoV-2 variants, respectively. In both years viral load was quantified using the same method and instrumentation (Seegene Allplex SARS-CoV-2 Assay).Results: The total number of patients with positive SARS-CoV-2 tests was 47 in January 2021 and 118 in January 2022, respectively. The cycle threshold (Ct) values in January 2022 (median Ct value, 27.5; IQR, 23.5-32.7) when the Omicron variant was prevalent were significantly lower than those measured during the same period of the year 2021 (median Ct value, 31.8; IQR, 26.4-37.6; p=0.007), when the Alpha variant was prevalent. The rate of subjects with high nasopharyngeal viral load was over 2-fold higher in January 2022 than in January 2021 (45/118 vs. 10/47; Odds ratio, 2.28 and 95%CI, 1.03-5.03; p=0.041).Conclusions: These results support the suggestion that aerosols released by patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant may contain higher viral particles than those released by subjects infected with previous strains.
Highlighting Exact Matching via Marking Strategies for Ad hoc Document Ranking with Pretrained Contextualized Language Models
Authors: BOUALILI Lila , Moreno Jose , Boughanem Mohand
Published: February 2022

Pretrained language models (PLMs) exemplified by BERT have proven to be remarkably effective for ad hoc ranking. As opposed to pre-BERT models that required specialized neural components to capture different aspects of query-document relevance, PLMs are solely based on transformers where attention is the only mechanism used for extracting signals from term interactions. Thanks to the transformer's cross-match attention, BERT was found to be an effective soft matching model. However, exact matching is still an essential signal for assessing the relevance of a document to an information-seeking query aside from semantic matching. We assume that BERT might benefit from explicit exact match cues to better adapt to the relevance classification task. In this work, we explore strategies for integrating exact matching signals using marker tokens to highlight exact term-matches between the query and the document. We find that this simple marking approach significantly improves over the common vanilla baseline. We empirically demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach through exhaustive experiments on two standard ad hoc benchmarks. Results show that explicit exact match cues conveyed by marker tokens are beneficial for BERT and ELECTRA variant to achieve higher or at least comparable performance. Our findings support that traditional information retrieval cues such as exact matching are still valuable for large pretrained contextualized models such as BERT.
High expression of PPFIA1 in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma correlates with tumor progression and poor prognosis
Authors: Tang Peng , Jia Ran , Gong Lei , Sui Zhilin , Xiao Wanyi , Yang Yueyang , Wu Xianxian , Yu Zhentao , Zhang Hongdian
Published: February 2022

We aimed to investigate the expression and clinical value of PTPRF interacting protein alpha 1 (PPFIA1) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The Oncomine, GEPIA, and GEO databases were utilized to explore PPFIA1 mRNA expression in esophageal cancer. The associations of PPFIA1 expression with clinicopathological variables and prognosis were evaluated in the GSE53625 dataset and verified in qRT-PCR-based cDNA array and immunohistochemistry-based tissue microarray (TMA) datasets. The interactions between PPFIA1 and other genes based on the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was analyzed via the STRING website. We found PPFIA1 expression was obviously upregulated in ESCC tissues versus adjacent normal tissues according to online database analyses (P<0.05). High PPFIA1 expression was significantly associated with several clinicopathological features, including tumor size, histological grade, tumor invasion depth, lymph node metastasis, and TNM stage. High PPFIA1 expression was related to worse outcomes and was identified as an independent prognostic indicator of overall survival in ESCC patients (GSE53625 dataset, P=0.004; cDNA array dataset, P<0.001; TMA dataset, P=0.039). PPI analysis demonstrated that PPFIA1 was highly correlated with multiple genes, including UNC13B, RAB3A, PTPRD, and SYT1. In conclusion, PPFIA1 may be associated with ESCC progression and could be used as a biomarker for prognostic evaluation in ESCC patients.
Reduced Osteoglycin Protein Expression Correlates with Lymph Node Metastasis and Low Differentiation in Human Gastric Cancer
Authors: Qian Chengjia , Zhao Changyong , Gao Qizhong , Gu Jiming , Han Weifeng , Jiang Hui , Jin Liugen , Qi Xiaowei , Fei Bojian , Tu Huiming
Published: February 2022

Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly malignant disease for which the development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets is urgently required. Decreased expression of Osteoglycin (OGN) has been observed in the progression of a variety of human cancers; however, the pathologic significance of OGN in GC remains unexplored. We aimed to detect the expression of OGN in gastric cancer tissues, and to evaluated the relationship between OGN expression and the clinico-pathological features in GC patients.
Methods
In this study, the expression levels of OGN were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) with the cohort including 44 gastric cancer samples and 40 non-tumorous samples. The data was statistically analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8.0.
Results
We found that OGN expression was downregulated in GC tissues compared to non-tumor counterparts. Furthermore, GC samples with lower OGN levels demonstrated higher lymph node metastasis. Histological analysis further confirmed that OGN downregulation was related to lower differentiation status of GC.
Conclusions
Collectively, our results indicate that dysregulation of OGN might be involved in GC development and that the expression of OGN may serve as a potential biomarker for monitoring of the progression of GC.
Factors influencing warm ischemia time in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy change depending on the surgeon’s experience
Authors: Numakura Kazuyuki , Kobyashi Mizuki , Koizumi Atsushi , Kashima Soki , Yamamoto Ryohei , Nara Taketoshi , Saito Mitsuru , Narita Shintaro , Inoue Takamitsu , Habuchi Tomonori
Published: February 2022

INTRODUCTION: Warm ischemia time (WIT) is a primary concern for robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RALPN) patients because longer WIT is significantly associated with postoperative deteriorating kidney function. Tumor complexity, determined by the RENAL nephrometry score (RENAL score), can help predict surgical outcomes, but it is unclear what RENAL score and clinical factors affect WIT. This study explored the clinical factors predicting long WIT in RALPN.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In our institute, 174 RALPNs were performed between November 2013 and February 2021, of which 114 were performed by a single surgeon and included in this study. Clinical staging and the total RENAL score were determined based on preoperative CT scans. The cases were divided into three groups based on experience: period 1: 1–38, period 2: 39–76, and period 3: 77–114. The clinical factors associated with longer WIT were analyzed per period. RESULTS: The overall median tumor diameter was 32 mm, and one patient had a positive surgical margin, but there were no cancer-related deaths. In total, there were 18 complications (15.8 %). Periods 2 and 3 had larger tumor diameters (p<0.01) and worse preoperative kidney function (p=0.029) than period 1. A RENAL L-component score of 3 was associated with longer WIT in period 3 (odds ratio: 3.900; 95 % confidence interval: 1.004–15.276; p = 0.044), but the tumor diameter and the total RENAL score were not.CONCLUSIONS: A large tumor in the central lesion indicated by the RENAL L-component score was associated with increased WIT in RALPN.
Perinatal depression and anxiety among Chinese women during the outbreak of the COVID-19 Delta variant
Authors: Liu Bing , Li Yingting , Huang Yunbo , Li Xiaolin , Yang Shuai , Fu Tingting , Peng Hongyun , Zhang Xia , Luo Taizhen , Chen Min
Published: February 2022

Background: This study aimed to assess the COVID-19 Delta variant impact on the incidence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in pregnant women in Guangdong Province, China, as well as to identify related risk factors.Methods: A three-week, multisite, cross-sectional study was conducted from June to July 2021 to evaluate the mental health status of pregnant women by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Approximately 1,450 women from 25 Guangdong hospitals were included in the study. We employed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale to assess symptoms of maternal depression and anxiety. Risk factors and relevance rates were analyzed.Results: Pregnant women who were determined to be underweight before pregnancy, primiparous, above 35 years of age, employed full-time, of middle income status, and had comfortable living arrangements were at higher risk of developing depression and anxiety during a COVID-19 outbreak.Conclusion: The occurrence of the COVID-19 Delta variant has increased the risk of mental disorders in pregnant women, which include thoughts of self-harm. Programs designed to address maternal stress as well as isolation such as constructive risk, communication, and providing psychological first aid may be particularly useful to avoid negative outcomes in pregnant women and their fetuses.
WITHDRAWN: Ward based teaching in a specialised clinical area. The outcome of implementing an induction pack for nursing staff new to the ward setting. Pilot study.
Authors: Ciesielski Krzysztof
Published: February 2022

Background: This pilot study presents a summary and evaluation of results from an 18-month project undertaken in an inpatient ward in clinical haematology. It was recognised that the level of basic clinical haematology knowledge varied amongst new nursing staff therefore, to improve the experience and to provide the same background knowledge, the induction pack was introduced. The aims of this study are to investigate whether the induction pack was useful to new nursing staff and to assess if more time is needed to complete the induction pack. Methods: This quantitative pilot study included 10 registered nursing staff who were new to the clinical area. Quantitative data was collected with the use of a self-completion survey composed of 8 short questions. Data was analysed with the use of percent proportion formula. Results: Final results are presented in a pie chart as percentages. Members of the staff participating in this study agreed with a total of 90% and disagreed with a total of 10% the induction pack was useful. The induction pack had a total of 60% success rate in being completed within the scheduled time frame. Conclusion: Overall, the induction pack has made a positive impact and contribution to the ward-based teaching. The aims of the study were met and the results showed that there were strong agreement or agreement between participants that the induction pack was useful. The results also suggested that nursing staff who are new to the clinical area, may needed more time to complete the induction pack.