bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rheumatic? - A Digital Diagnostic Decision Support Tool for Individuals Suspecting Rheumatic Diseases: A Multicenter Validation Study
Authors: Knevel Rachel , Knitza Johannes , Hensvold Aase , Circiumaru Alexandra , Bruce Tor , Evans Sebastian , Maarseveen Tjardo , Maurits Marc , Voorde Liesbeth Beaart - van de , Simon David , Kleyer Arnd , Johannesson Martina , Schett Georg , Huizinga Tom , Svanteson Sofia , Lindfors Alexandra , Klareskog Lars , Catrina Anca
Published: April 2021

BackgroundDigital diagnostic decision support tools promise to accelerate diagnosis and increase health care efficiency in rheumatology. Rheumatic? is an online tool developed by specialists in rheumatology and general medicine together with patients and patient organizations. It calculates a risk score for several rheumatic diseases. In the current pilot study, we retrospectively test Rheumatic? for its ability to differentiate symptoms from immune-mediated diseases from other rheumatic and musculoskeletal complaints and disorders in patients visiting rheumatology clinics. MethodsThe performance of Rheumatic? was tested using data from 175 patients from three university rheumatology centers covering two different settings:A. Risk-RA phase setting. Here, we tested whether Rheumatic? could predict the development of arthritis in 50 individuals with musculoskeletal complaints and anti-citrullinated protein antibody positivity from the KI (Karolinska Institutet)B. Early arthritis setting. Here, we tested whether Rheumatic? could predict the development of an immune-mediated rheumatic disease in i) EUMC (Erlangen) n=52 patients and ii) LUMC (Leiden) n=73 patients.In each setting, we examined the discriminative power of the total score with the Wilcoxon rank test and the area-under-the-receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC-ROC). Next, we calculated the test characteristics for these patients at a rheumatology setting passing the first or second threshold for at least one of the rheumatic diseases.ResultsThe total test score clearly differentiated between: A) individuals developing arthritis or not, median 245 versus 163, P < 0.0001, AUC-ROC = 75.3B) patients with an immune-mediated arthritic disease or not, in EUMC median 191 versus 107, P < 0.0001, AUC-ROC = 79.0, and LUMC median 262 versus 212, P < 0.0001, AUC-ROC = 53.6.Threshold-1 (advising on seeking primary care doctor) was highly specific in two centers (0.72, 0.87 and 0.23, respectively) and far more sensitive (0.67, 0.61 and 0.67) in KI, EUMC respectively LUMC.Threshold-2 was very specific in all three centers but not very sensitive: specificity of 1.0, 0.96 and 0.91, sensitivity 0.05, 0.07, 0.14 in KI, EUMC respectively LUMC. ConclusionsRheumatic? is a web-based patient-centered multilingual diagnostic tool capable of differentiating immune-mediated rheumatic conditions from other musculoskeletal problems. The scoring system might be further optimized, for which we will perform a prospective study.
Dyslipidemia in Chinese Pancreatic Cancer Patients: A Two-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Feiyang , Wu Heshui , Xu Junming
Published: April 2021

Background: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal malignancies in the world. High cholesterol intake may have a certain association with an elevated risk of PC, though dyslipidemia in PC patients has rarely been reported. In this study, we compared serum lipids levels between PC and non-PC tumor patients and assessed their prognostic value in PC. Methods: 271 patients treated at Wuhan Union Hospital from January 2012 to December 2016 and 204 individuals at Shanghai General Hospital from January 2018 to December 2019 were recruited. Their demographic parameters, laboratory data, pathological information, and clinical outcomes were extracted and analyzed. The mRNA expressions of related lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and high density lipoprotein binding protein (HDLBP), in PC tissues and paired noncancerous tissues and follow-up information were assessed based on the GEO database (GSE15471 and GSE62165) and TCGA database. Results: A total of 172 non-PC tumor patients and 260 PC patients were finally eligible for our analysis. PC patients exhibited higher levels of serum triglyceride, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and a lower serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level on admission versus the non-PC tumor group. In PC patients, LDLR mRNA expression was upregulated, and HDLBP mRNA expression was downregulated in cancerous tissues compared to these levels in paired noncancerous tissues. The survival analysis revealed that dyslipidemia had a non-significant association with a poor prognosis, but PC patients with a high LDLR level were at risk of poor survival. Conclusion: Dyslipidemia is detected in PC patients but has a non-significant relation to PC prognosis. However, LDLR may be a potential predictive marker for PC prognosis.
Genomic epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in Russia reveals recurring cross-border transmission throughout 2020
Authors: Matsvay Alina , Klink Galya , Safina Ksenia , Nabieva Elena , Garushyants Sofya , Biba Dmitry , Bazykin Georgii , Mikhaylov Ivan , Say Anna , Zakamornaya Anastasiya , Khakhina Anastasiya , Lisitsa Tatiana , Ayginin Andrey , Abramov Ivan , Bogdan Sergey , Kolbutova Kseniya , Oleynikova Daria , Avdeenko Tatiana , Shipulin German , Yudin Sergey , Skvortsova Veronika
Published: April 2021

SARS-CoV-2 has spread rapidly across the globe, with most nations failing to prevent or substantially delay its introduction. While many countries have imposed some limitations on trans-border passenger traffic, the effect of these measures on the spread of COVID-19 strains remains unclear. Here, we report an analysis of whole-genome sequencing of 3206 SARS-CoV-2 samples from 78 regions of Russia covering the period between March and November 2020. We describe recurring imports of multiple COVID-19 strains throughout this period, giving rise to 457 uniquely Russian transmission lineages, as well as repeated cross-border transmissions of local circulating variants out of Russia.
Self-Reported Eating Speed Is Associated With Overweight Among Chinese School-Children: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: gong qing , Li X , Wang J , Zhang Y
Published: April 2021

PurposeThis study aimed to examine the association between eating speed and overweight in Chinese school-children. MethodsIn all, 664 schoolchildren (10-12 y) from 3 primary schools participated in this study in China. Their height and body weight were measured. Information about eating speed and other lifestyle behaviors was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for overweight. ResultsData from 629 students were analyzed. 26.2% of participants reported they were eating fast. The prevalence of overweight (including obesity) was 22.9%, and the mean of sleep duration was 9.69 (SD= 0.63) hours (Table 1). In the multiple linear regression analysis, eating speed was negatively associated with BMI (B=-0.70; P﹤0.05) and TG (B=-0.16; P﹤0.05). In addition, participants who ate fast were more likely to be overweight (OR=1.81, 95% CI= 1.19 to 2.75) after adjusting for potential confounding factors. ConclusionsThis study indicates that eating fast is associated with overweight among Chinese school-children.Level of evidence﻿Level V; cross-section descriptive study
Combined Effects of Lung Disease History, Environmental Exposures, and Family History of Lung Cancer to Susceptibility of Lung Cancer in Chinese Non-smokers
Authors: Yu Fanglin , Xiao Rendong , Li Xu , Hu Zhijian , Cai Lin , He Fei
Published: April 2021

Background: Although cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer, the incidence rate of lung cancer among non-smokers is notable. The etiology and potential mechanism of non-smoker lung cancer are worthy of further research. This study was designed to explore the collective effects of environmental factors and the relationship between environmental exposure index (EEI) and lung cancer among non-smokers by evaluating the joint effects among lung disease history, environmental factors, and family history of lung cancer without smoking confounders.Methods: A total of 767 never-smoked lung cancer cases and 767 sex- and age-matched controls were selected from the department of Thoracic Surgery and Respiratory Medicine of three hospitals in Fujian, China. We used two methods to develop the EEI according to 12 statistically significant environmental risk factors. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was applied to analyze the non-linear relationship between EEI and lung cancer in non-smokers. Combined effects, additive interaction, and multiplicative interaction were assessed among lung disease history, EEI, and family history of lung cancer to estimate susceptibility to develop lung cancer.Results: Lung disease history, especially asthma, was significantly associated with an increased risk of lung cancer with an odds ratio (OR) for asthma history of 14.720 (95% CI: 1.877–115.449). Family history of lung cancer was related to susceptibility of lung cancer (OR = 3.347, 95% CI: 1.930–5.806). According to type of relatives and cancer, a parental or children’s history and a sibling’s history of lung cancer were significantly associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. The positive association between EEI and lung cancer was apparently stronger in those with lung disease history or family lung cancer history. Furthermore, there was a addictive interaction between EEI and lung disease history, and a possibly addictive interaction between EEI and family lung cancer history on development of lung cancer.Conclusions: There were combined effects among lung disease history, environmental exposures, and family history of lung cancer toward susceptibility to lung cancer in Chinese non-smokers. Non-smokers who had a family history of lung cancer were at higher risk of lung cancer than non-smokers who had lung disease history. Non-smokers with family cancer history may obtain benefits from removal of environmental exposures and active treatment of lung disease.
Impact of HIV-1 CRF55_01B infection on the evolution of CD4 count and plasma HIV RNA load in men who have sex with men prior to antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Wei Lan , Li Hao , Lv Xing , Zheng Chenli , Li Guilian , Yang Zhengrong , Chen Lin , Han Xiaoxu , Zou Huachun , Gao Yanxiao , Cheng Jinquan , Wang Hui , Zhao Jin
Published: April 2021

Background CRF55_01B is a newly identified HIV-1 circulating recombinant form originated from MSM in China. However, its impact on the disease progression and transmission risk has not been investigated. This study aimed to determine the impact of CRF55_01B infection on viral dynamics and immunological status, so as to provide implications for future prevention, treatment, or target interventions. Linear mixed effect models were applied to evaluate CD4 cell count decline and viral load increase by subtype.Results Of the 3418 blood samples, 1446 (42.3%) were CRF07_BC, 1169 (34.2%) CRF01_AE, 467 (13.7%) CRF55_01B, 249 (7.3%) type B, and 87 (2.5%) other subtypes (CRF_08BC, CRF_01B, C). CRF55_01B had replaced subtype B as the third predominant strain since 2012 in Shenzhen, China. CRF55_01B-infected MSM showed lower median of CD4 count than CRF07_BC-infected MSM (349.5 [IQR, 250.2~474.8] vs 370.0 [IQR, 278.0~501.0], P<0.05). CRF55_01B infection was associated with slower loss of CD4 count than CRF01_AE (13.6 vs 23.3 [cells/μL]¹/²/year, P<0.05)among MSM with initial CD4 count of 200~350 cells/μL. On the other hand, those infected with CRF55_01B showed higher median plasma HIV RNA load (5.4 [IQR, 5.0~5.9]) than both CRF01_AE (5.3 [IQR, 4.8~5.7], P<0.05) and CRF07_BC (5.0 log10 [IQR, 4.5~5.5], P<0.001) at the initiation of antiretroviral therapy. Furthermore, the annual increasing rate of viral load for CRF55_01B infection was significantly higher than that of CRF07_BC (2.0 vs 0.7 log10 copies/ml/year, P<0.01).Conclusions The relatively lower CD4 count and faster increase of plasma HIV RNA load of CRF55_01B-infected MSM without antiretroviral therapy suggest that CRF55_01B may lead to longer asymptomatic phase and higher risk of HIV transmission. Strengthened surveillance, tailored prevention strategies and interventions, and in-depth research focusing on CRF55_01B are urgently needed to forestall potential epidemic.
Geotechnical Evaluation of Gully Erosion and Landslides Materials and their Impact in Iguosa and its Environs, Western Anambra Basin, Nigeria.
Authors: Aigbadon Godwin Okumagbe , Ocheli Azuka , Akudo Ernest Oji
Published: April 2021

Background: Field survey and geotechnical evaluation was done to determine the soil characteristics of the gullies and landslides materials and their impact in Iguosa and its environs, Western Anambra Basin. This was done to explain and evaluate the root problems, causes, mechanism of the continuous gullies and landslides in the study area.Results: The field study reveals that the geomorphological characteristics, weakly developed structures, slope steepness, wrong use of the land and poor vegetation cover coupled with intense and prolonged rainfall contributed to the origin, causes of gullies and landslides in the study area. Geotechnical parameters for soil samples in the study area shows that the mean liquid limit (LL) of 40, mean plastic limit (PL) of 8.30, mean plasticity index (PI) of 21.20, mean coefficient of permeability (K) of 3.65 × 10cm/sec, mean cohesion and mean angles of internal angles between grains of 2.56 kƿa and 23.70 respectively. The low PL, low LL and low PI values of the Ajali sand, low cohesion (poor compaction) and low angle of internal resistance between grains of the soil, high K of Ajali sand coupled with the swelling and shrinking nature of the clay beds beneath the Ajali sand, resulted to easily weathering of the Ajali sands, erosional and continuous landslide activities in these affected areas.Conclusions: The origin, mechanism and impacts of landslide hazards have been investigated in Iguosa and its environs, Western Anambra Basin, Nigeria. Field observation reveals that the geomorphological characteristics, weakly developed structure, high slope instability, wrong use of land, as well as the steepness of the slope and intense and prolonged rainfall contributed to the origin of landslide as well as the gully erosion in the study area. The unconsolidated nature of the soil, less cohesion, high permeability, and weak plasticity of the soil that occurs under and above the clay lithologic units (gliding planes) contributed to landslide and gully erosion. Possible prospective implications of the gully erosion and landslides in the study areas are land degradation, destruction of houses and other properties, farm lands and roads. The following suggestions have been made to solve these problems by covering the landslide areas with impermeable layers/materials, diverting surface water away from the landslide areas, enacting laws to prevent erection of structures on landslide prone areas, the use of biotechnical slope techniques and bioengineering methods. The application of these recommended methods will go a long way in solving the problem of landslide hazards in the study area.
Electro-Hydraulic Proportional System Real Time Tracking Control Development Based on Pulse Width Modulation Method
Authors: Mohamed Ezz Eldin Ibrahim , Elnady Tarek , Hassan Mohamed Saffaa , Saleh
Published: April 2021

The present work is directed to develop the dynamic performance of an electro-hydraulic proportional system (EHPS). a mathematical model of (EHPS) is presented using electrohydraulic proportional valve (EHPV) by the aim of Matlab-simulink which facilitate the simulation of the hydraulic behavior inside the main control unit. Experimental work is done and closed loop system is designed using linear variable displacement transducer sensor (LVDT). The controller of the system is an Arduino uno which is considered as the processor of the system. The model is validated by the experimental system. The study also presents a real time tracking control method based on pulse width modulation by controlling the speed of the actuator to achieve position tracking with minimum error.
Integrative Pan-cancer Analysis of MEK1 Aberrations and the Potential Clinical Implications
Authors: Zhou Zhiyang , Peng Bi , Li Juanni , Huang Jinzhou , Cai Yuan , Xu Zhijie , Yan Yuanliang
Published: April 2021

Background: Alterations of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1) are commonly associated with tumorigenesis, and MEK1 is thought to be a suitable targeted therapy for various cancers. However, abnormal MEK1 alterations and their relevant clinical implications are unknown. Our research comprehensively analyzed the MEK1 alteration spectrum and provided novel insight for targeted therapies. Methods: There were 7694 samples covering 32 types of cancer from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. They were used to conduct an integrative analysis of MEK1 expression, alterations, functional impacts and clinical significance. Results: There was a dramatic difference in the alteration frequency and distribution and clinical implications in 32 types of cancer from the TCGA. Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) has the most alterations and has therapeutic targets located in the protein kinase domain, and the growing expression of SKCM is positively related to patient prognosis. MEK1 expression in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP), esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) and liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is decreased, which is associated with better prognosis, while MEK1 expression in thymoma (THYM), stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) is increased, which is associated with better prognosis. Mesothelioma (MESO) has the second highest alterations but has no therapy targets. Conclusion: This study provided a great and detailed interpretation of MEK1 expression, alterations and clinical implications in 32 types of cancer and reminded us to fill the gap in MEK1 research from a new perspective. Keywords: MEK1, gene mutation, gene alteration, outcome, pan-cancer
An Unusual Case of IgA Vasculitis with Multisystemic Involvement
Authors: Du Lina , Liu Chang , Wang Panpan , Li Shaojing , Yue Shuang , Guo Ziyun , Yang Yan
Published: April 2021

Background: Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV) is one of the most common vasculitis in children. It is generally a self-limiting disease. Due to its systemic nature, a variety of symptoms in different organs can be observed. We report a case of IgAV characterized by several complications to improve clinicians’ understanding of the disease.Case presentation: A 4-year-old boy was admitted to a local hospital because of abdominal pain and skin rash. The skin biopsy showed leukocytoclastic vasculitis with IgA deposition, consistented with a diagnosis of IgAV. He developed clinical signs of intussusception and laparotomy was undertaken. He continued to have intermittent abdominal pain and edema in the four limbs with oliguria. Elevated pancreatic enzymes and swelling of the pancreas on abdominal ultrasound suggested a combination of pancreatitis in the child. The child subsequently developed headache, dizziness and convulsions, and head MRI showed a high signal on the left side of the cortex and subcortical white matter, and he was considered to have developed cerebral vasculitis.He underwent bronchoscopy because of respiratory distress, which which confirmed the presence of pulmonary hemorrhage. Combined pulmonary infections added to the severity and complexity of his condition. He received two courses of methylprednisolone pulse therapy combined with IVIG and aggressive anti-infective therapy, but his condition eventually deteriorated and he died.Conclusions: IgAV can involve multiple systems and various complications. There is no definitive evidence to support a single drug or multi- immunosuppressive regimen. IgAV usually runs a benign course,however, the severe cases are critical, with a high mortality rate.
Multimodal Prehabilitation in Radioactive Iodine-refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Treated With Lenvatinib.
Authors: Oca Alejandra Perez-Montes de , Joaquin Clara , Vazquez Federico , Martinez Eva , Etxanitz Olatz , Barez Milagros , Fuentes Sonia , Puig-Domingo Manuel , Reverter Jordi L.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study describes our clinical experience with lenvatinib for the treatment of radioactive iodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RR-DTC) using a multimodal patient-centered prehabilitation multidisciplinary approach assessing its effectiveness and patient outcomes.
Methods and design

This is a retrospective observational real-life study of a consecutive series of RR-DTC patients treated with lenvatinib as first-line treatment at Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital.
Results

Partial response was observed in 6 patients (46.1%), stable disease in 5 patients (38.5%) and disease progression in 2 patients (15.4%). PFS and OS were 16.3 and 17.9 months respectively. AEs occurred in all patients. The most common adverse event (AE) was fatigue (69%), followed by diarrhea (46%), hypertension (46%) and anorexia (38.3%). Weight loss was present in 30.7% of the patients and only 7.7% was grade 3.
Conclusion

In our experience, prehabilitation can be useful to decrease not only the incidence but the severity of important side effects such as weight loss, anorexia and hypertension. For these complex patients, a multidisciplinary team is useful for follow-up, treatment and prevention of possible AEs.
Trends of inequalities in early initiation of breastfeeding in Ethiopia: Evidence from Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys, 2000-2016
Authors: Amare Tsegaw , Dellie Endalkachew
Published: April 2021

Background
Early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) is a cost-effective and straightforward activity with numerous neonates' survival benefits. Thus, any disparity would result in an unacceptably high rate of neonatal death at the national level, and disparities among sub-groups regarding EIBF have not been well explored in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the trends of socioeconomic inequalities in EIBF in Ethiopia.
Methods
The Ethiopian demographic and health survey 2000 to 2016 data and the World Health Organization's (WHO) Health Equity Assessment Toolkit (HEAT) were used to investigate the inequalities in early breastfeeding initiation across the wealth quantile, educational level, residence and subnational region. Difference, ratio, slope index of inequality, relative index of inequality and population attributable risk were used as equity summary measures. A 95% uncertainty interval was calculated to declare the significance of the disparity in each point estimate.
Results
The magnitude of EIBF practice has fluctuated over the last seventeen years, with 47.4% in 2000, 66.2% in 2005, 51.5% in 2011 and 73.3% in 2016. In 2011, a significant change in inequality was observed in wealth- and educational status, whereas in 2016, inequalities were found in the subnational regions. Furthermore, in all survey years, the simple dispersion measure indicated no inequality in EIBF based on residence differences. However, there was high dispersion both in Difference and Ratio in Ethiopia across all survey years based on Ethiopia's sub-national region. In 2016, Afar (42.0%; 95% UI: 34.7–49.7), Tigray (63.0%; 95% UI: 56.6–69.0) and Amhara (66.0%; 95% UI: 59.7–71.8) were the three least EIBF practiced regions in Ethiopia. If the regional performance disparities in 2016 were reduced to an insignificant level, the EIBF proportion at the national level would increase by 17.2% (95% UI: 2.2–32.2).
Conclusion
In Ethiopia, the trend of socioeconomic inequality in EIBF has increased significantly over the past seventeen years. The disparity in EIBF was observed in all measures of dispersion in 2011. In all survey years, the northern part of Ethiopia (Afar, Tigray and Amhara regions) performed worse than the rest of the country. Therefore, interventions targeting them would significantly improve the national level performance of EIBF for the subsequent reduction of neonatal mortality.
An Evidence-Based Personal Finance Education Curriculum for Physicians and Medical Students
Authors: Igu Joel Akachukwu , Zakaria Sammy , Bar-Or Yuval
Published: April 2021

BackgroundMany physicians complete medical school and graduate medical education (GME) burdened by high debt and financial illiteracy. This places them at higher risk for ill-informed financial decisions, which can result in increased stress and anxiety and a lower quality of life. In response, medical wellness programs have increasingly sought to offer personal finance education, but there is little guidance on optimal curricula. Our objective is to systematically review the existing literature examining physician financial literacy curricula and to recommend a standardized curriculum.MethodsThis review utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2009 checklist to conduct literature searches in PubMed, ERIC, MedEdPortal, EBSCO, JSTOR, and Google Scholar. Three researchers used predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria to select articles, including a focus on financial concepts applicable in the United States. Articles were assessed using modified Côté-Turgeon and Kirkpatrick qualitative analyses tools. Results38 articles met all inclusion criteria. Six specifically described personal finance literacy curricula for medical students or GME trainees, with varied criteria for selecting instructors, topics, and outcomes. All studies reported that audiences were ill-prepared for making financial decisions but strongly desired financial literacy education. Qualitative analysis revealed Strength of Findings summary scores ranging from 2-4, while applicable Kirkpatrick Model scores were all 3 or greater.ConclusionsAlthough medical students and GME trainees value financial literacy, few publications report the impact of actual curricula. These efforts vary in depth, breadth, and measured impact. Future research should focus on development of valid testing instruments, content standardization, selection of credible instructors, and country-specific financial concepts.
Metabolic Stimulation-Elicited Transcriptional Responses and Biosynthesis ofAcylated Triterpenoids in the Medicinal Plant Helicteres Angustifolia
Authors: Huang Yuying , An Wenli , Yang Zerui , Xie Chunzhu , Liu Shanshan , Zhan Ting , Zheng Xiasheng , Pan Huaigeng
Published: April 2021

Helicteres angustifolia has long been used in Chinese traditional medicine. It has multiple pharmacological benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-tumor effects. Its main active chemicals include betulinic acid, oleanolic acid, helicteric acid, helicterilic acid, and other triterpenoid sapions. It is worth noting that the acylation of triterpenoids, such as helicteric acid and helicterilic acid, are characteristic components of Helicteres and are relatively rare among other plants. However, reliance on natural plants as the only sources of these restricts the potential use of H. angustifolia. Therefore, engineering of its metabolic pathway is of high research value for enhancing the production of secondary metabolites. Unfortunately, little is known of the biosynthesis of acylated triterpenoids, hindering its further investigation. Here, the RNAs of different groups treated by metabolic stimulation were sequenced with an Illumina high-throughput sequencing platform, resulting in 121 gigabases of data. A total of 424,824 unigenes were obtained after the trimming and assembly of the raw data, and 22,430 unigenes were determined to be differentially expressed. In addition, three oxidized squalene cyclases (OSCs) and four Cytochrome P450 (CYP450s) were screened, of which one OSC (HaOSC1) and one CYP450 (HaCYPi3) achieved functional verification, suggesting that they could catalyze the production of lupeol and oleanolic acid, respectively. At the same time, we also screened two triterpenoid acetyl transferases (TATs) and one triterpenoid benzoyl transferase (TBT), as subsequent structural modificatory genes, their preliminary study laid a foundation for the acylation of triterpenoids. In a nutshell, these results shed light on the regulation of acylated triterpenoids biosynthesis.
Congenital Phenotypes and DMPK CTG Repeat Number in Mothers and Children With Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1
Authors: Shigematsu Kosuke , Mikami Yukiko , Takai Yasushi , Huang Haipeng , Shinsaka Mamiko , Itaya Yukiko , Kinoshita Masanobu , Nomura Kyoichi , Seki Hiroyuki
Published: April 2021

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an autosomal dominant genetic disease. In DM1, the mutant allele expands during gametogenesis, and an extended CTG repeat sequence is inherited by the offspring. This often results in increased severity of DM1 symptoms in the affected offspring and may cause congenital myotonic dystrophy (CDM). This study aimed to clarify whether CTG repeat number predicts CDM in offspring. This retrospective study examined 14 women with DM1, their pregnancy and labor histories, and their 14 children diagnosed with DM1. There were 12 CDM patients and 2 non-CDM patients. Correlations between CDM onset and CTG repeat numbers of the mother and child were analyzed. Women who bore a child with CDM (infants with detected polyhydramnios during pregnancy, hypotonia, respiratory insufficiency, or suckling failure at birth) had a mean repeat number of 643 (standard deviation [SD] 436). For women who bore a child without CDM, the mean repeat number was 950 (SD 71), and no significant between-group difference was detected. The mean (SD) CTG repeat numbers observed in children with and without CDM were 1,646 (324) and 1,700 (565), respectively. CDM cannot be predicted based on the CTG repeat numbers of mothers or children.
Clinical analysis of persistent subretinal fluid after pars plana vitrectomy in macular involving diabetic tractional retinal detachment
Authors: Kang Yong Koo , Shin Jae Pil
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to analyze the duration of persistent subretinal fluid (PSF) and contributing factors after pars plana vitrectomy in patients accompanying macular involving diabetic tractional retinal detachment (TRD). We included 33 eyes of 33 patients diagnosed macular involving diabetic TRD and received pars plana vitrectomy between 2014 and 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. PSF was confirmed on optical coherence tomography. The duration of PSF after surgery and relevant ocular and systemic factors according to the duration of PSF were analyzed. The prevalence of PSF was 81.8% a 1 month, 54.5% at 3 months, 36.4% at 6 months and 12.1% at 12 months after surgery and mean duration of PSF was 5.2 ± 4.9 months. The mean best corrected visual acuity was significantly improved after 1 year and the final visit than baseline. Blood urine nitrogen, creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were significantly associated with duration of PSF in univariate analysis, but only eGFR was significantly associated in the multivariate analysis. Therefore, patients with impaired kidney function tend to have delayed subretinal fluid absorption and it would be necessary to explain in advance that PSF could be long-lasting in patient with impaired kidney function.
Revealing the structure deformation in multi-component lipids by dynamic speckle pattern analysis
Authors: Panahi Majid , Rad Vahideh Farzam , Sasan Shiva , Jamali Ramin , Moradi Ali-Reza , Darudi Ahamd
Published: April 2021

In the bio-molecular field of Liquid-crystalline, the stacked lipid bilayers phase represents an extensive issue. It was proven that in addition to the typical smectic order, multi-component multilayer membranes could present columnar order arising from the coupling of two-dimensional intralayer phase separation. Interlayer smectic ordering distributes across hundreds of membrane lamellae, resulting in long-range alignment of phase-separated domains. In the current paper, the self-ordering of the sample over time is investigated by dynamic speckle pattern analysis. Temporal alteration of the sample is associated with changes in the intensity and contrast of the speckle pattern. We have used different factors, including motion history, co-occurrence, and time history speckle pattern, to examine the structure evolution of lipid mixtures, which are done by sequence images of speckle pattern over time. Roughness parameters inclusive of skewness and kurtosis of speckle pattern were investigated that are related to the domain size evolution of the sample. It is shown that the activity is decreasing by increasing the cholesterol content and inertia moment is inversely proportional with the growth of domain formation. The experimental setup, data recording, and data analysis are presented too.
SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2 elicited a robust humoral and cellular response against SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Authors: Lilleri Daniele , Cassaniti Irene , Bergami Federica , Percivalle Elena , Gabanti Elisa , Sammartino Josè Camilla , Ferrari Alessandro , Adzasehoun Kodjo , Zavaglio Federica , Zelini Paola , Comolli Giuditta , Sarasini Antonella , Piralla Antonio , Ricciardi Alessandra , Zuccaro Valentina , Maggi Fabrizio , Novazzi Federica , Simonelli Luca , Varani Luca , Baldanti Fausto
Published: April 2021

BNT162b2 vaccine was introduced in Italy on 27th December 2020 and healthcare workers were rapidly vaccinated. In this study, we demonstrated that one vaccine dose was sufficient for eliciting a sustained humoral and cell-mediated response in SARS-CoV-2 experienced healthcare workers but had a lower effect in SARS-CoV-2 naïve subjects. However, 98% naïve subjects developed both neutralizing antibodies and Spike-specific T-cells after the second dose. Moreover, the antibody and T-cell responses were effective against viral variants since a partial reduction in antibody response was observed only against the South-African variant in SARS-CoV-2 naïve individuals, while the T-cell response was less affected.
Identification of aquifer pollution’s point sources with the Reciprocity Principle
Authors: Hariga Nejla T. , Bouhlila Rachida
Published: April 2021

The principle of reciprocity, called Maxwell-Bettitheorem, initially used in mechanics in an elastic structure, establishes a relation of equality between two distinct strains under different loads. In this paper, we extend and apply this principle to flow and solute transport equations in porous media, in order to perform the pollution sources identification in aquifers. We developed general 2D expressions of the reciprocity principle for transient transport problems. This model leads to a linear equations set, with point sources coordinates, concentrations and associated water fluxes as unknowns. The proposed model is then applied to the Rocky Mountain Arsenal aquifer, where polluted water is injected into a well in the domain. The proposed inverse technique successfully recovered the position and the pollutant concentration in addition to the associated water flux. Moreover, we developed and implemented the inverse method for different knowledge levels of the degrees of the aquifer contamination, i.e. more or less data available in the field. Multiple pollution point sources and noisy data situations are also developed and tested with high efficiency. The proposed method would be easy and useful to be implemented in the modeling software now widely used by researchers and groundwater managers. It can thus be applied in real case studies, to help authorities and regulators to efficiently identify the polluters and the contamination process i.e. its location, onset, duration and the associated mass and water fluxes.
Investigating the Length, Area and Volume Measurement Accuracy in UAV-Based Oblique Photogrammetry Models produced with and without Ground Control Points
Authors: Maraş Erdem , Nasery Mohammad
Published: April 2021

This study was aimed to investigate the performance and sensitivity of a 3D photogrammetric model generated without GCPs (Ground Control Points). To see if the models with no GCPs show the accuracy in every types of terrain as well as climate or metrological conditions, two separate studies are done in two areas with different characteristics such as Altitude, slope, topography, and meteorological varieties. The study areas were initially modelled with GCPs and later without GCPs. Furthermore, some of the dimensions and areas within the modelled area were measured using terrestrial techniques (with GPS/GNSS) for accuracy analysis. After modelling within the areas with and without GCPs, different territories with different slope and geometric shapes were selected. Various measurement in terms of length, area and volume carried out over the selected territories within both model (generated with and without GCPs) of each 2 studies. The datasets obtained as results of measurements were compared to each other and the measurements carried out over the models produced with GCPs were accepted as true values. Results from length measurement provided various level of success. First study area exhibited very promising results in length measurement with a relative error of less than 1% and RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) of 0.139m. In the case of area measurement, in the first study area (Sivas), a minimum relative error of 0.04% and a maximum relative error of 1.05% with a RMSE of 1.264 m² is obtained. In the second study areas (Artvin) for area measurement a minimum relative error of 0.56% and a maximum relative error of 5.27% with a RMSE of 1.76m² is achieved. And finally, in the case of volume measurement, for fist study area (Sivas) a minimum relative error of 0.8% and a maximum relative error of 6.8% as well as 2.301 m³ is calculated. For second study area (Artvin) minimum relative error for volume measurement is 0.502% as well as maximum relative error is 2.01% with a 7.061m³ RMSE.
Combined Association of Multiple Chronic Diseases and Social Isolation With Functional Disability in Elderly Stroke Patients: A Multicentre Cross-sectional Study in China
Authors: Liu Xiangxiang , Yu Hong-jie , Gao Yan , Zhou Jing , Zhou Mingchao , Wan Li , Xiong Feng , Zhao Jingpu , He Qi-qiang , Wang Yulong
Published: April 2021

BackgroundMultiple chronic diseases (MCDs) and social isolation are independent risk factors related with stroke and disability, but it is unknown whether the combination of these two conditions resulted from ageing related to functional disability in stroke patients. The purpose of this study was to probe the relationship between combination of MCDs, social isolation and functional disability in elderly stroke patients.MethodsA multicentre and cross-sectional study was conducted in the Departments of Rehabilitation Medicine of 103 hospitals located in 23 cities across China. Stroke patients aged over 60 years were selected as participants. Demographic characteristics, lifestyles and clinical information were investigated by questionnaire and medical records. Multi-nominal logistic regression model was used to explore the association of MCDs, social isolation and their combination with functional disability assessed by Barthel Index Scale.ResultsA total of 4281 elderly stroke patients were included in the final analysis. The proportion of social isolation and MCDs (>1) increased by the severity of functional disability. Social isolation was associated with increased risks for mild (33%), moderate (175%), and severe (833%) functional disability significantly in their comparisons with those without social isolation and MCDs. The intragroup odds ratio (OR) of MCDs increased by its number and the intergroup of OR increased by the severity of functional disability significantly. Social isolation and ≥3 MCDs associated the highest risk for severe (OR= 38.24, 95%CI: 14.76-99.07) and moderate (OR = 9.74, 95%CI: 3.62-26.22) functional disability, but not significant for mild group.ConclusionsMCDs, social isolation, and their combination were associated with functional disability in Chinese elderly stroke patients. Future secondary prevention and rehabilitation for functional disability in this population should underscore both social activity and the combined treatments of MCDs.Clinical Trial Registration NOChiCTR2000034067.
Global Implication of Mesoproterozoic (1.4 Ga) Magmatism Within Sette-Daban Range (Southeast Siberia)
Authors: Malyshev Sergey , Ivanov Alexey , Khudoley Andrey , Kamenetsky Vadim , Kamenetsky Maya , Marfin Alexander , Lebedeva Olga
Published: April 2021

Mesoproterozoic period included several global tectonic events like break-up of Nuna and formation of Rodinia. However, although Siberia is a significant piece of both supercontinents, Mesoproterozoic time is marked by quiescence of magmatic and tectonic activity in it. We report here a mafic dyke (named Gornostakh dyke) in the southeastern Siberian Craton dated at 1419 ± 32 Ma by LA-ICPMS U-Pb geochronology of apatite. Paleogeographic reconstructions suggest that Siberia was connected to Laurentia and Baltica and their reconfiguration interrupts a prolonged tectonic quiescence in the Siberian Craton from ca. 1.88 Ga reflecting a transition from Nuna to Rodinia configuration. The 1419 Ma Gornostakh dyke and coeval deformation observed in the structure of the region may be a direct consequence of this transition. The dyke has tholeiitic compositions with high MgO and alkaline content, low-Ti, and arc-like trace element pattern. Due to the absence of subduction tectonics in the study area, geochemical data could be attributed to a significant contribution from metasomatically enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle previously modified by subduction processes. Such mafic magmatism on the margin of the Siberian Craton could be related to a hypothetic large igneous province, which initiated the continental break-up.
Lipid Markers of Breast Tissue for the Diagnosis of Regional Metastatic Lesion
Authors: Chagovets Vitaliy , Tokareva Alisa , Starodubtseva Natalia , Kometova Vlada , Rodionova Maria , Chingin Konstantin , Rodionov Valeriy , Frankevich Vladimir
Published: April 2021

The development of minimally invasive, non-traumatic and stable approaches for the diagnosis of metastatic lesions of regional lymph nodes upon breast cancer is of great urgency. Here we recorded lipid profiles of normal breast tissue and malignant tissue to reveal potential lipid markers of metastatic lesions of regional lymph nodes. Lipid identification was done using the Lipid Match package. The search for lipid markers was carried out using the Mann-Whitney test. Lipids for the construction of a diagnostic logistic regression were selected according to the Akaike information criterion. For normal breast tissue, a diagnostic model was obtained with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.83; for tumor tissue, a model with AUC = 0.86 was obtained. The species PC 14:0_20:4, PE 18:1_20:1, PC P-16:0/20:4, PC P-16:0/20:4, PE P-16:0/22:4, SM d18:1/18 0, SM d18:1/22:0 were determined as markers for normal breast tissue. The species PC 18:2_22:6, PC O-18:0/20:2, SM d16:1/18:1, SM d22:0/20:2, SM d16:0/18:2 were determined as markers for tumor tissue. The high AUC values ​​for the developed diagnostic model indicate the potential significance of the revealed marker species for the diagnosis of breast cancer metastasis and indicate the need for further research in this direction.
High resolution evaluation of various cochlear implant electrodes’ scalar position by 3T MRI
Authors: Riemann C , Scholtz LU , Gehl HB , Sudhoff H , Todt I.
Published: April 2021

Objective: The estimation of scalar electrode position is a central point of quality control during the cochlear implant procedure. Ionic radiation is a disadvantage of commonly used radiologic estimation of electrode position. Recent developments in the field of cochlear implant magnets, implant receiver magnet position, and MRI sequence usage allow the postoperative evaluation of inner ear changes after cochlear implantation.The aim of the present study was to evaluate the position of lateral wall and modiolar cochlear implant electrodes using 3T MRI scanning.Material and Methods: In a prospective study, we evaluated 20 patients (10x Med-El Flex 28; 5x HFMS AB and 5x SlimJ AB) with a 3T MRI and a T2 2D Drive MS sequence (voxel size: 0.3 x 0.3 x 0.9 mm) for the estimation of the intracochlear position of the cochlear implant electrode.Results: In all cases, MRI allowed a determination of the electrode position in relation to the basilar membrane. This observation made the estimation of 19 scala tympani electrode positions and a single case of electrode translocation possible.Conclusion: 3T MRI scanning allows the estimation of lateral wall and modiolar electrode intracochlear scalar positions.
Morphometric and Histomorphometric Evaluations of High-Purity Macro/Microporous β-TCP in Maxillary Sinus Floor Elevation
Authors: Fujita Atsushi , Fukumoto Chonji , Hasegawa Tomonori , Sawatani Yuta , Kawamata Hitoshi
Published: April 2021

Background: The present study examined the effectiveness of high-purity macro/microporous beta-tricalcium phosphate (HPMM β-TCP) as a bone grafting material for maxillary sinus floor elevation by morphometric and histopathological, histomorphometric evaluations.Methods: Ten maxillary sinus ﬂoor elevation procedures using 100% HPMM β-TCP were performed on 10 patients. Morphometric evaluation was carried out by CT imaging immediately after augmentation and prior to dental implant placement after 7 months.Histopathological and histomorphometric evaluation were carried out by bone biopsy retrieval at the time of dental implant placement 7 months after sinus floor elevation. Results: All 10 sinus floor elevations were successful. Morphometric evaluation by CT images showed that the vertical height and the volume gained by sinus floor elevation decreased 7 months after surgery. Histopathological evaluation by bone biopsy retrieval specimens showed no signs of inﬂammation at the newly formed bone area and the native alveolar bone area. New bone formation was observed at the cranial side from the native alveolar bone. The newly formed bone had a trabecular structure and was in intimate contact with the HPMM β-TCP material. Histomorphometric evaluation by bone biopsy retrieval specimens revealed an average new bone volume of 33.97%±2.79% and an average residual HPMM β-TCP volume of 15.81%±4.52%.Conclusions: In this study, HPMM β-TCP showed the osteoconductive properties for vertical augmentation of the atrophied maxilla by means of a maxillary sinus ﬂoor elevation procedure allowing subsequent dental implant placement after a 7-month healing period.