bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inkoo And Sindbis Viruses In Semi-Domesticated Reindeer And Mosquitoes In Norway
Authors: Shakya Ruchika , Tryland Morten , Vikse Rose , Romano Javier Sánchez , Åsbakk Kjetil , Nymo Ingebjørg H. , Mehl Reidar , Evander Magnus , Ahlm Clas , Vapalahti Olli , Lwande Olivia Wesula , Putkuri Niina , Johansen Wenche , Soleng Arnulf , Edgar Kristin S. , andreassen Åshild K
Published: November 2021

Background: Mosquito-borne viruses pose a serious threat to humans worldwide. There has been an upsurge in the number of mosquito-borne viruses in Europe, mostly belonging to the families Togaviridae (Sindbis, Chikungunya), Flaviviridae (West Nile, Usutu, Dengue), and Peribunyaviridae (Inkoo, Batai, Tahyna). The principal focus of this study was Inkoo (INKV) and Sindbis (SINV) virus circulating in Norway because there is a knowledge gap regarding reservoirs and transmission. Therefore, we aimed to determine the prevalence of SINV and INKV in mosquitoes and seroprevalence of INKV in semi-domesticated Eurasian tundra reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus).Methods: In total, 213 pools containing about 25 mosquitoes each and 480 reindeer sera were collected in eight Norwegian reindeer summer pasture districts during 2013-2015. The mosquito pools were analysed for INKV and SINV RNA, with reverse transcriptase (RT)-real time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), and pyrosequencing. Reindeer sera were analysed for INKV-specific IgG by Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IIFA) and Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test (PRNT).Results: Aedes spp. were the most dominant species among the collected mosquitoes. Two of the mosquito pools were positive for INKV-RNA by RT-PCR and were confirmed by pyrosequencing. The overall estimated pool prevalence (EPP) of INKV in Norway was 0.04%. IgG seroprevalence in reindeer revealed 60% positive for INKV by IIFA. Of the 55 borderline reindeer sera, 24% were positive on cytopathic effect (CPE)-neutralization test. Among 80% of 60 reindeer sera analysed with PRNT for INKV had a titre ≥ 20, and there was no cross-reactivity with the closely related Tahyna virus (TAHV) and Snow Shoe Hare virus (SSHV). None of the analysed mosquito pools were positive for SINV.Conclusions: The occurrence and prevalence of INKV in Aedes mosquitoes and its high seroprevalence among semi-domesticated reindeer in Norway indicate that further studies are required for monitoring this virus. SINV was not detected in the mosquitoes in this study, however, human cases of SINV infection have yearly been reported from Rjukan. Therefore, it is essential to investigate SINV among human population. Our findings are important to raise awareness regarding the geographical distribution of these mosquito-borne viruses in Northern Europe.
Impact of CCI on Performance Analysis of Downlink Satellite-Terrestrial Systems: Outage Probability and Ergodic Capacity Perspective
Authors: Nguyen Nhat-Tien , Nguyen Hong-Nhu , Le Anh-Tu , Nguyen Nhan Duc , Do Dinh-Thuan , VOZNAK MIROSLAV
Published: November 2021

The evolution of non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) has raised many opportunities for massive connectivity with less latency in signal transmissions at great distances. Power-Domain NOMA transmits user signals superimposed in the same resource block by varying the power coefficient of each user according to their channel state information (CSI). At the receiver’s end, successive interference cancellation (SIC) is performed to extract the desired signal from the superimposed signal. Imperfect CSI should therefore be studied in this context. Satellite-terrestrial networks and relay networks have already gained significance in the field of communications through their efficient data transmission techniques. We aimed to integrate NOMA with a satellite communications network under both imperfect CSI and co-channel interference (CCI) from nearby systems with respect to analysis of ground user performance. In our considered system, two users perform downlink communications under Power-Domain NOMA. We analyzed the performance of this system with two modes of shadowing effect: Heavy Shadowing (HS) and Average Shadowing (AS). Performance was analyzed in terms of the outage probability and ergodic capacity of the system. We derived closed-form expressions and performed a numerical analysis. We discovered that the performance of two destinations depends on the strength of the transmit power at the satellite. However, floor outage occurs because the system depends on other parameters, such as satellite link modes, noise levels, and the number of interference sources. More specifically, if, for example, the number of interference sources is 5, the outage performance of the system experiences a decrease of approximately 40% at a signal to noise ratio (SNR) of 30 dB at the satellite. Outage probability and ergodic capacity became saturated at SNRs of 50 dB and 45 dB, respectively. To verify the authenticity of the derived closed-form expressions, we also performed Monte-Carlo simulations.
Transcriptome analysis reveals the prognostic and immune infiltration characteristics of glycolysis and hypoxia in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Jun , Lu Jianjun , Li Wenli
Published: November 2021

Background
This study aims to construct a new prognostic gene signature based on cancer hallmarks for patients with Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).
Method
The transcriptome profiling data and hallmark gene sets in the Molecular Signatures Database was used to explore the cancer hallmarks most relevant to the prognosis of HNSCC patients. Differential gene expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, univariate COX regression analysis, random forest algorithm and multiple combinatorial screening were used to construct the prognostic gene signature. The predictive ability of gene signature was verified in the TCGA HNSCC cohort as the training set and the GEO HNSCC cohorts (GSE41613 and GSE42743) as the validation sets, respectively. Moreover, the correlations between risk scores and immune infiltration patterns, as well as risk scores and genomic changes were explored.
Results
A total of 3391 differentially expressed genes in HNSCC were screened. Glycolysis and hypoxia were screened as the main risk factors for OS in HNSCC. Using univariate Cox analysis, 97 prognostic candidates were identified (P<0.05). Top 10 important genes were then screened out by random forest. Using multiple combinatorial screening, a combination with less genes and more significant P value was used to construct the prognostic gene signature (RNF144A, STC1, P4HA1, FMNL3, ANO1, BASP1, MME, PLEKHG2 and DKK1). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with higher risk scores had worse overall survival (p <0.001). The ROC curve showed that the risk score had a good predictive efficiency (AUC> 0.66). Subsequently, the predictive ability of the risk score was verified in the validation sets. Moreover, the two-factor survival analysis combining the cancer hallmarks and risk scores suggested that HNSCC patients with the high hypoxia or glycolysis & high risk-score showed the worst prognosis. Besides, a nomogram based on the nine-gene signature was established for clinical practice. Furthermore, the risk score was significantly related to tumor immune infiltration profiles and genome changes.
Conclusion
This nine-gene signature associated with glycolysis and hypoxia can not only be used for prognosis prediction and risk stratification, but also may be a potential therapeutic target for patients with HNSCC.
Sex Specific Differences in Nosocomial Infections in Patients with Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Griemsmann Marie , Tergast Tammo L. , Simon Nicolas , Kabbani Abdul-Rahman , Manns Michael P. , Wedemeyer Heiner , Cornberg Markus , Maasoumy Benjamin
Published: November 2021

Background and aims: There are considerable differences between males and females regarding the etiology, progression and outcome of liver diseases. Infections are a frequent and severe complication in these patients. This study aimed to examine sex specific differences in the incidence and clinical course of nosocomial infections in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis.Methods: A number of 555 consecutive patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and ascites were analyzed. The patients were followed up for the incidence of nosocomial infections, acute kidney injury (AKI), acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) as well as liver transplantation and death (LTx-free survival). Results: A number of 285 patients (111 women and 174 men) developed a nosocomial infection. Incidence was numerically lower in men (p=0.076). While the frequency of a nosocomial spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was similar between males and females, the incidence of a nosocomial urinary tract infection was significantly higher in women (p<0.001). No sex specific differences were documented regarding the outcome of an infection as indicated by a similar incidence of, AKI, ACLF as well as LTx-free survival.Conclusion: There seem to be no major differences in the incidence and outcome of nosocomial infections between male and female patients.
Effects of Acute and Chronic Resistance Exercise on the Skeletal Muscle Metabolome
Authors: Gehlert Sebastian , Weinisch Patrick , Römisch-Margl Werner , Jaspers Richard T. , Artati Anna , Adamski Jerzy , Dyar Kenneth A. , Aussieker Thorben , Jacko Daniel , Bloch Wilhelm , Wackerhage Henning , Kastenmüller Gabi
Published: November 2021

Resistance training promotes metabolic health and stimulates muscle hypertrophy, but the precise routes by which resistance exercise (RE) conveys these health benefits is largely unknown. Aim: To investigate how acute RE affects human skeletal muscle metabolism. Methods: We collected vastus lateralis biopsies from six healthy male untrained volunteers at rest, before the first of 13 RE training sessions, and 45 min after the first and last bouts of RE. Biopsies were analysed using untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. Results: We measured 617 metabolites covering a broad range of metabolic pathways. In the untrained state RE altered 33 metabolites, including increased 3-methylhistidine and 1-carboxylethylvaline, suggesting increased protein breakdown, as well as metabolites linked to ATP (xanthosine) and NAD (N1-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide) metabolism; the bile acid chenodeoxycholate also increased in response to RE in muscle opposing previous findings in blood. Resistance training led to muscle hypertrophy, with slow type I and fast/intermediate type II muscle fibre diameter increasing by 10.7% and 10.4%, respectively. Comparison of post-exercise metabolite levels between trained and untrained state revealed alterations of 46 metabolites, including decreased N-acetylated ketogenic amino acids and increased beta-citrylglutamate which might support growth. Only five of the metabolites that changed after acute exercise in the untrained state were altered after chronic training, indicating that training induces multiple metabolic changes not directly related to the acute exercise response. Conclusion: The human skeletal muscle metabolome is sensitive towards acute RE in the trained and untrained states and reflects a broad range of adaptive processes in response to repeated stimulation.
High-resolution genetic map construction and QTL analysis of important fiber traits in kenaf using RAD-seq
Authors: Hui Li , Li Chang , Huijuan Tang , Mingbao Luan , Gen Pan , Siqi Huang , Hui Jiang , Yena Wu , Anguo Chen
Published: November 2021

Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping is a useful method for revealing the mechanism of complex genetic traits and identifying new genomic information to accelerate crop improvement. In the present study, 154 F2:3 strains and their parents were used for restriction site-associated DNA sequencing, single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) identification, and genetic map construction. After filtering based on stringent filtering standards, 297.5 Gb of clean data were obtained. Further, 5,191 polymorphic SNP markers were identified from each sample, of which 1,997 polymorphic SNP markers were successfully mapped onto 18 different linkage groups. Six QTLs (QPH, QFBW, QDBW, QFW, QFT, and QFC) were identified based on the genetic map using the multiple QTL mapping (MQM) method, which were then assigned to three linkage groups, LG16, LG8, and LG3. QPH, QFBW, QDBW, and QFW were related to fiber yield, while QFT and QFC were related to fiber quality. This is the first study of its kind to map QTL of fiber yield and fiber quality, which will facilitate further understanding of the molecular genetic basis of these traits. However, there are limitations regarding the utilization of this map because several large gaps remain in some linkage groups. Therefore, additional markers need to be developed to further narrow these regions.
The Relationship Between Spatio-temporal Gait Parameters and Cognitive Function: Protocol for a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Fukuoka Tatsuya , Irie Shun , Watanabe Yoshiteru , Kutsuna Toshiki , Abe Akiko
Published: November 2021

BackgroundMotor dysfunctions, such as slower walking speed, precede the occurrence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment, suggesting that walking parameters may be effective biomarkers for detecting early sub-clinical cognitive risk. In fact, while our preliminary study had a small sample, we found several walking parameters obtained by three-dimensional motion capture system, to be correlated with computer-based assessments of various cognitive function modalities. The Cognitive-Gait (CoGait) Database Project, described in the current protocol, aims to establish a database of multi-dimensional walking and cognitive performance data, collected from a large sample of healthy participants, crucial for detecting early sub-clinical cognitive risk. Methods: The study will recruit healthy volunteers, 20 years or older, without any neurological or musculoskeletal disorders. The estimated sample size is 450 participants, including a 10% attrition rate. Using computer-based cognitive assessments, all participants will perform six tasks: (i) the simple reaction time task, (ii) Go/No-Go task, (iii) Stroop Color–Word Test, (iv) N-back test, (v) Trail making test, and (vi) Digit Span test. Gait will be measured through joint kinematics and global positioning in participants’ lower legs, using pants with an inertial measurement unit-based three-dimensional motion capture system, while walking at a comfortable and faster pace. Finally, we will establish a prediction model for various cognitive performance modalities, based on walking performance. Discussion: This will be the first study to reveal the relationship between walking and cognitive performance using multi-dimensional data collected from a large sample of healthy adults, from the general population. Although there are several methodological limitations, such as accuracy of measurements, the CoGait database is expected to be the standard value for both walking and cognitive functions, supporting the evaluation of psychomotor function in early sub-clinical cognitive risk, including motoric-cognitive risk syndrome.Trial registration: None.
Transcriptome Analysis of Sugarcane in Response to Colletotrichum Falcatum Infection Reveals Repertoire of Transcription Factors and Host Targets
Authors: Prasanth C. Naveen , Rasappa Viswanathan , Malathi P. , Sundar A.R.
Published: November 2021

Background - Sugarcane (Saccharum spp hybrid), an important C4 perennial plantation crop, globally grown for white sugar and ethanol production. Red rot caused by Colletotrichum falcatum is one of the most important threats affecting sugarcane productivity in many countries including India.Materials and Methods - Comprehensive understanding is very much needed to define their transcription level differences and their key regulatory genes during interaction of sugarcane with C. falcatum. To compute and evaluate the molecular mechanism in sugarcane, transcriptome analysis of sugarcane challenged with C. falcatum was sequenced using Hi-Seq 2500 and gene expression profiles were generated by qRT-PCR assays in both compatible and incompatible interactions after challenge inoculation of C. falcatum in sugarcane.Results - A total of 15,728,914 reads were aligned to 48,935 unigenes using BOWTIE 2; the unigenes were annotated using BLASTX and found that 39,895 unigenes were annotated and 22,025 were unigenes with respect to host species, 8,830 with respect to Colletotrichum spp and 9,040 were found to be novel genes. A total of 243 transcription factors (TFs) were found to be predicted in sugarcane challenged with C. falcatum and those TFs were divided into 45 specific families. WRKY, MYB, NAC, bHLH and AUX/IAA transcription factors were found to be abundant which are considered to be key regulators in controlling wide range of molecular events such as defense response, oxidative stimuli, host signalling and triggering disease resistance. In addition, a lot of stress related genes and genes involved in gene ontological and KEGG pathway were significantly affected due to C. falcatum infection. Quantative real time PCR assays carried out to validate reliability of observed expression patterns in sugarcane in response to C. falcatum infection illustrates first transcriptome wide in planta identification and analysis of TF repertoire in the host pathogen interaction.Conclusion - The results of this study provide a benchmark discovery in finding host targets and provide tissue specific data set of genes that express in response to C. falcatum in sugarcane and also a complete analysis of main group of genes that significantly enriched under this condition. This is the first comprehensive work provides basis for the further studies to dissect role of TFs at molecular level in sugarcane defense to fungal pathogens.
Do Entrapment, Injuries, Outcomes and Potential for Self-extrication Vary with Age? A Pre-specified Analysis of the UK Trauma Registry (TARN)
Authors: Nutbeam Tim , Kehoe Anthony , Fenwick Rob , Smith Jason , Bouamra Omar , Wallis Lee , Stassen Willem
Published: November 2021

Background:Motor vehicle collisions (MVCs), particularly those associated with entrapment, are a common cause of major trauma. Current extrication methods are focused on spinal movement minimisation and mitigation, but for many patients’ self-extrication may be an appropriate alternative. Older drivers and passengers are increasingly injured in MVCs and may be at an increased risk of entrapment and its deleterious effects. The aim of this study is to describe the injuries, trapped status, outcomes, and potential for self-extrication for patients following an MVC across a range of age groups. Methods:This is a retrospective study using the Trauma Audit and Research Network (TARN) database. Patients were included if they were admitted to an English hospital following an MVC from 2012 to 2019. Patients were excluded when their outcomes were not known or if they were secondary transfers. Simple descriptive analysis was used across the age groups: 16-59, 60-69, 70-79 and 80+ years. Logistic regression was performed to develop a model with known confounders, considering the odds of death by age group, and examining any interaction between age and trapped status with mortality. Results:70,027 patients met the inclusion criteria. Older patients were more likely to be trapped and to die following an MVC (p<0.0001). Head, abdominal and limb injuries were more common in the young with thoracic and spinal injuries being more common in older patients (all p<0.0001). No statistical difference was found between the age groups in relation to ability to self-extricate. After adjustment for confounders, the 80+ age group were more likely to die if they were trapped; adjusted OR trapped 30.2 (19.8 - 46), not trapped 24.2 (20.1 - 29.2). Conclusions:Patients over the age of 80 are more likely to die when trapped following an MVC. Self-extrication should be considered the primary route of egress for patients of all ages unless it is clearly impracticable or unachievable. For those patients who cannot self-extricate, a minimally invasive extrication approach should be employed to minimise entrapment time.
"MORIEF Technique" for Schatzker Type II–III Tibial Plateau Fractures with Tension Blisters: A Retrospective Study of Seven Patients
Authors: Qi Xin , Xu Yong-Qing , Tan Hong-Bo , Xia Shen , Xu Xiao-Yan , Lv Qian , Zhao Ze-Yu , Zhu Yue-Liang
Published: November 2021

Background: When tibial plateau fractures are combined with tension blisters, internal fixation surgery must be delayed. However, a prolonged delay may cause complications during fracture treatment. To combat this challenge, we innovatively proposed a minimally open reduction and Ilizarov external fixation (MORIEF) technology. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the treatment, safety, and efficacy of the MORIEF technique in Schatzker type II–III tibial plateau fractures with tension blisters.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data of seven patients with Schatzker type II–III tibial plateau fractures with tension blisters treated at our hospital from September 2013 to March 2017. All patients (five males, two females; mean age: 38.1±8.2 [range: 28–50] years) underwent the MORIEF technique. The Knee Society Score (KSS) and assessment of bone status according to the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) scoring system were used to evaluate the knee joint function and bone healing condition.Results: The operative time was 108.6±14.6 (range: 90–135) min, blood loss was 104.3±50.4 (range: 50–200) ml, time from operation to discharge was 2.6±0.7 (range: 2–4) days, and the follow-up period was 20.6±1.8 (range: 18–22) weeks. The fractures healed in all patients at 11.9±1.1 (range: 10–14) weeks. Except for one case of needle tract infection, no other complications occurred. At the last follow-up, the KSS presented a clinical score of 80–95 (mean: 86.4±4.4) points and a functional score of 85–95 (mean: 87.9±3.6) points. According to ASAMI, four cases were classified as excellent, two as good, one as fair, and none as poor.Conclusions: The use of the MORIEF technology for the treatment of Schatzker type II–III tibial plateau fractures with tension blisters showed that the resulting incidence of infection is low, weight-bearing and walking can be resumed immediately, hospitalization time is shortened, economic burden of patients is reduced, and fracture healing and joint function recovery are not affected postoperatively. Therefore, this technique was shown to be a relatively safe and effective treatment method for the condition.
Wall-Eyed Bilateral Internuclear Ophthalmoplegia Caused by Unilateral Subpontine Infarction: A Case Report
Authors: Wang Jun , Yu Chuan , Jiang Yiyun , Li Xiang , Fang Yiyi
Published: November 2021

Background： Wall-eyed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia syndrome (WEBINO) is a rare disorder comprising bilateral exotropia, bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia, and impaired convergence. It is usually caused by a midbrain lesion. Case presentation ：We describe a rare case of WEBINO, with the lesion located in the lower pons, in a 69-year-old man with acute ischemic stroke. Conclusions ：Our report alerts physicians to the possibility of bilateral WEBINO due to unilateral infarction.
Utilization of Insecticide Treated Nets and Health Seeking Behavior for fever among Children under Five in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Esuabom Melford , Aworh Mabel Kamweli , Umeokonkwo Chukwuma David , Balogun Muhammad Shakir , Bamgboye Eniola , Dahiru Tukur
Published: November 2021

BackgroundMalaria remains a burden globally with the WHO African region accounting for 94% of the overall disease burden and deaths in 2019. Nigeria alone accounted for 27% of total malarial cases and 23% of deaths. Insecticide-treated nets (ITN) use and receiving early care for fever represent the most cost-effective means of malaria prevention and control. In this study, we assessed the utilization of ITNs in households with under-five children in Southwest Nigeria, the health-seeking behavior of their caregivers for fever, and associated factors.MethodsThis was a secondary data analysis of the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey. Analysis was restricted to under-five children residing in Southwest Nigeria. Multivariate analysis using logistic regression was conducted to determine factors associated with utilization of ITNs and care-seeking for fever in under-five children. Complex samples command of SPSS (Version 23) was used to account for survey sampling design.ResultsOf 2,281 under-five children in households with at least one ITN, 67.6% (1542) slept under an ITN the night before the survey. Predictors of ITN use were the age of child (<12 months), wealth index (poorest), number of nets in a household (2 or more), and number of household members (1-3). Of the 4,153 under-five children, 8.7% (360) had fever, and advice or treatment was sought for 72.4% (261). Predictors of good health-seeking behavior were the age of a child <12 months (AOR=2.81, 95% CI = 1.08-7.31), mothers’ education, and state of residence. Mothers who had secondary education were less likely to report care-seeking than those with higher education (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.19-0.98). Mothers from Osun, Ekiti, and Lagos state were less likely to seek care than those from Ogun state.ConclusionWe found that the utilization of insecticide-treated nets and seeking of care for fever in under five years of age in Southwest Nigeria were below the National Malaria Strategic Plan goal of 80% and 100% respectively. The state governments of Osun, Ekiti, and Lagos should develop strategies to improve ITN use and early seeking of care for fever in under-five children.
Isolated Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Deficiency Caused by Camrelizumab in a Patient with Lung Sarcoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Huang Wen , Feng Saran
Published: November 2021

Background
Immune checkpoint inhibitors significantly increase survival in some malignant tumors, but they also lead to a variety of immune-related adverse events that affect multiple organs, including the liver, lung and endocrine system. Isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) deficiency (IAD) is a rare pituitary disorder characterized by secondary adrenal insufficiency with low or absent cortisol production but the normal secretion of pituitary hormones other than ACTH. IAD caused by atezolizumab, pembrolizumab and nivolumab therapy had been reported, but none is reported in camrelizumab, a new immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). Clinicians may not be aware of this unusual side effect.
Case presentation:
Here, we describe a 70-year-old male patient who had lung sarcoma and was treated with camrelizumab. After nine months of treatment, he developed immune-related pneumonia and hepatitis associated with camrelizumab. The patient discontinued the drug and recovered soon after administration of glucocorticoids. But he subsequently appeared severe hyponatremia, and was diagnosed with late-onset IAD induced by camrelizumab. His symptoms alleviated after glucocorticoid replacement therapy.
Conclusion
Regular monitoring serum sodium levels and testing endocrine function should be beneficial for cancer patients not only during the treatment of camrelizumab but also after discontinuation of the ICI. Clinicians should consider IAD induced by ICIs when hyponatremia occurs in the patients.
Development of a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) questionnaire to elicit values by pregnant women and decision-makers for the expansion of a NIPS-based prenatal screening program
Authors: Nguyen Hung Manh , Lindsay Carmen , Baradaran Mohammad , Guertin Jason Robert , Nshimyumukiza Leon , Soukkhaphone Bounhome , Reinharz Daniel
Published: November 2021

BackgroundIn an accountable world, being able to take into account the value given by relevant stakeholders to an intervention that could be offered to the population is considered as desirable. DCE is an approach particularly suited for the measurement of such values in the field of prenatal care. Yet, DCE studies in the field of prenatal screening have focused mainly on pregnant women and their care providers but have neglected another key actor, the decision-makers. The objective of the study was to develop a DCE instrument applicable to pregnant women and decision-makers, for the evaluation of new conditions to be added to a screening program for fetal chromosomal anomalies.MethodsAn instrument development study was undertaken. Methods employed included a literature review, a qualitative study performed on pregnant women and decision-makers, and a pilot project to validate the developed instrument and test the feasibility of its administration through an online survey platform. ResultsAn initial list of ten attributes and levels were built from the information provided by the literature review and the qualitative research component of the study. Seven attributes were built based on responses provided by participants from both groups. Two attributes were built from what was said by women only and one from what was said by decision-makers only. Search for consensus through consultations and a focus group discussion led to the retention of eight attributes. A pilot project was then performed with 33 pregnant women. This led to the exclusion of one attribute that showed poor influence on the choice making. The final version of the instrument contains seven attributes.ConclusionThis paper presents the construction of a DCE instrument that can be administered to pregnant women on the demand side, and decision-makers on the supply side. Such an instrument to measure the social desirability of an intervention could be an added value to the decision-making process of Health Technology Assessment agencies.
PROTEUS: an immersive tool for traveling across space and time scales
Authors: Albertini Niccolò , Baldini Jacopo , Pino Andrea Dal , Lazzari Federico , Legnaioli Stefano , Barone Vincenzo
Published: November 2021

In the context of scientific visualization, the main challenge is to achieve a good balance between the accurate representation of scientific data (computed or stored in databases) and the visual quality of the virtual experience itself. Traditional scientific software relies on custom tools meant to be used on conventional terminals or software developed with mouse and keyboard in mind. However, the true advantage of Virtual Reality is the enhanced ability of finding connections between apparently heterogeneous information, discovering correlations that would otherwise be harder to detect. In particular, in the field of Digital Humanities, it is increasingly necessary to develop and validate virtual reality tools that are capable of combining various scientific data in a Virtual Reality context with access and consultation of online repositories. This paper reports the main aspects of the implementation of a heterogeneous relational database available online storing 3D models, metadata and chemical analyses related to different sectors of digital humanities. The Virtual Reality software, called PROTEUS, allows the user to shrink himself from the macroscopic world of Digital Humanities, down to the microscopic world of molecular sciences. The web platform is connected to the virtual reconstruction software, which dynamically loads the information available in the online repository within the virtual reality application. This application also provides a detailed explanation of the reconstruction of the 3D models for the various objects, and the chemical analyses. The real advantage of a virtual reality application is the real time interaction with data and 3D models, thus allowing the researcher to understand and manipulate objects, to test hypotheses and to seek meaningful results, visualizing the metadata while changing the parameters of the simulation in a dynamic and interactive way. This is a significant step forward in the democratization of science, by means of an user friendly and immersive access to advanced scientific algorithms, and the integration of the Proxima Molecular Perception library, which allows the automatic perception of structural and topological features of the underlying molecular and supra-molecular systems.
Up-regulated microRNA-185-3p inhibits the development of hyperlipidemia in rats
Authors: Zhao Hua , Li yanbing
Published: November 2021

Objective
MicroRNA (miR)-185-3p roles have been probed in multiple cancers, while the underlying function of miR-185-3p in hyperlipidemia remained obscure. This research was conducted to unravel miR-185-3p function in hyperlipidemia development via modulating mastermind-like 1 (MAML1).
Methods
The hyperlipidemia rat model was constructed. MiR-185-3p and MAML1 levels in hyperlipidemia rats were detected. Adenoviral vectors altering miR-185-3p and MAML1 levels were injected into hyperlipidemia rats to examine the levels of biochemical indices, inflammatory factors, oxidative stress, lipid accumulation and cellular morphology in liver tissues of hyperlipidemia rats. The targeting relation between miR-185-3p and MAML1 was manifested.
Results
MiR-185-3p levels were depleted while MAML1 expression was elevated in HH rats. MiR-185-3p overexpression or MAML1 silencing reduced levels of inflammatory factors in serum, mitigated oxidative stress and biochemical response, relieved lipid accumulation and cellular morphology in liver tissues; while up-regulated MAML1 reversed the effects of augmented MAML1 in hyperlipidemia rats. MiR-185-3p targeted MAML1.
Conclusion
Up-regulated miR-185-3p represses hyperlipidemia development via modulating MAML1. This research provides novel therapeutic candidates for the treatment of hyperlipidemia.
Analysis of Risk Factors for Cytomegalovirus Corneal Infection
Authors: Zang Yunxiao , Peng Rongmei , Qu Jinghao , Xiao Gege , He Linhui , Zhang Xuanjun , Shuai Lixue , Hong Jing
Published: November 2021

Objectives: The present study assessed the risk factors for cytomegalovirus (CMV) corneal infection and compared the odds ratios.Methods: This study was a retrospective case-control study (2014.12–2021.1) over a 6-year period. We reviewed the medical record data and compared the differences between the CMV-positive and virus-negative groups with regard to sex, age, first diagnosis, and ocular complications to identify factors that may be associated with CMV corneal infections. The risk factors for CMV corneal infection were analysed using the chi-squared test and binary logistic regression models.Results: Ninety CMV-positive cases and 151 virus-negative controls were involved in this study. The risk factors for CMV corneal infection were Stevens-Johnson syndrome ocular complication (OR 12.851, 95%CI, 1.435–111.111; P=0.000), a penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) (OR 4.950, 95%CI, 2.632–9.346; P=0.024, and an anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) (OR 5.290, 95%CI, 1.250–22.222; P=0.022).Conclusion: Severe corneal damage (PKP or DALK) and a severe corneal inflammatory response (SJS ocular complication) may be risk factors for CMV corneal infections.
Glideosomal GAP50 binders that inhibit invasion and restrict malaria parasite in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Agrawal Prakhar , Kumari Surekha , Sharma Upendra , Sahal Dinkar
Published: November 2021

Malaria continues to be a killer disease even in the modern world. Vaccines and drugs have a lot to learn from the malaria parasite before they can be successful. Here, using a filter for glideosomal anchor protein PfGAP50, we have explored a plethora of small molecules to shortlist eight GAP50 binders with promising antiplasmodial activity (IC50 < 3 µM) that are also highly selective. Of these, Hayatinin, Bedaquiline, MMV688271, Curine, and Brilacidin with PfINDO IC50 ≤ 1 µM were found to stall merozoites invasion by inhibiting IMC formation besides increasing ROS levels in trophozoites. Bedaquiline loaded healthy RBCs showed prophylactic ability to prevent intraerythrocytic development of malaria parasite. Synergistic activities with ΣFIC values as low as 0.22 (Curine and Artemisinin) or 0.37 (Bedaquiline and Artemisinin) augur well for the development of drug combinations to combat malaria effectively. Interestingly, orally delivered Bedaquiline (50 mg/Kg b. wt.) showed substantial suppression of parasitemia in the mouse model of malaria.
Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on patients with post stroke fatigue: A study protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sun Weiming , Sun Xing , Dong Xiangli , Yu Guohua , Shuai Lang , Ma Chaolin
Published: November 2021

Introduction Post stroke fatigue (PSF) is an abnormal, persistent, and unexplained physical and psychological tiredness in patients after stroke. It is a common symptom of stroke patients with poor quality of life and bleak prognosis, and the incidence rate is up to 39–72%. It has been widely reported that medicine treatments achieved a lot of progress, there still needs to develop more powerful new strategies to more powerful effect. The transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) shows great potential for the treatment of PSF. This study proposes to apply a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial to explore the effect and safety of tDCS combined with routine rehabilitation for PSF. Methods and analysis One hundred patients with PSF will be randomly divided into two groups. One of the groups will receive conventional rehabilitation therapy and active tDCS, whereas another group will receive conventional rehabilitation treatment and sham tDCS. Both groups will receive the intervention for 4 weeks, during which time they will undergo either active or sham tDCS 20 minutes a day, 6 days a week. Primary outcome: Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) will be measured at baseline every weekend during the intervention period. Secondary results: Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS), Functional Assessment Chronic Illness Therapy (Fatigue) (FACIT-F), Specialized Quality of Life Scale in Stroke (SS-QOL) will be measured at baseline and at the end of the intervention time of 4 weeks. Throughout the study, adverse events and adverse reactions will be measured during every treatment. The research study”Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on patients with post stroke fatigue” has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University: Clinical Medicine Ethics Review [2015]043 in Nov, 2015. Discussion This study will provide insight on the efficacy of transcranial direct-current stimulation for post stroke fatigue. This is a double-blind randomized controlled trial whose aim is to assess the effects of tDCS on PSF.This study can provide more information about the treatment of PSF. This study has a period of follow-up, which allows for greater accuracy. It is a single-center trial and this may be a limitation. The other limitation of this study is a relatively small number of participants; thus, the influence of chance on experimental results cannot be completely ruled out. Trial registration number Chinese Clinical Trial Registry,ChiCTR2000031120. Registered on March 22, 2020. This protocol version number is V1.1.
On the order of the non-primes of type 6n+5 and 6n+1
Authors: Wolmersdorfer Christoph
Published: November 2021

The fundamental importance of prime numbers for mathematics is that all other natural numbers can be represented as a unique product of prime numbers[1]. For centuries, mathematicians have been trying to find an order in the occurrence of prime numbers. Since Riemann´s paper on the number of primes under a given size, the distribution of the primes is assumed to be random[2]. Here, I show that prime numbers are not randomly distributed using three parametric sine functions. Their positions are determined by the order of occurrence of the nonprimes of types 6n+5 and 6n+1. Furthermore, I will show an exact primality test using these three parametric sine functions.
Mechanisms generating the numerous hues of chrysanthemum petals can be traced to in vitro γ-ray-induced mutagenesis.
Authors: Din Ambreena , Qadri Zahoor Ahmed , WANI MUNEEB AHMAD , Rather Z.A. , Iqbal Shameen , Malik Sajid Ali , Rafiq Sadaf , Nazki I.T.
Published: November 2021

In terms of global cut flower production, chrysanthemum (Dendranthemum grandiflorum kitam.) ranks among the top ten. When a plant species possesses colour characteristics associated with those of ancestral species, that colour is described as being white, yellow, or pink, with white coloration representing an absence of pigments, and yellow and pink coloration each represents the presence of carotenoids and anthocyanins, respectively. Pigments, or a combination of pigments, have been improved upon to provide an expansive rainbow of floral colours like orange, dark red, purplish-red, and red. Recent green-flowered varieties have developed a reputation for containing chlorophylls in their ray petals. Additionally, transgenic interventions have been used to breed violet/blue flowers. Flower colour is a highly regarded characteristic of any flower cultivar, particularly chrysanthemum. Breeders' ultimate goal is to create newer chrysanthemum cultivars with innovative characteristics, such as new flower colours, using a time and input-efficient approach. Investigating the molecular mechanisms that regulate flower pigmentation may yield critical insights into the rational manipulation of floral colour. To generate a diverse array of flower colour mutants in chrysanthemum cv. “Candid” through mutagenesis, in vitro grown micro shoots were exposed to 10, 20, 30, and 40 Gy gamma irradiation at 100 Gy per minute and were evaluated for different parameters. The rhizogenesis parameters declined with the increase in irradiation dose from 0 Gy to 40 Gy, while as, 10 Gy dose proved to record minimum decline in contrast to the control. Survival, leaf size, and the number of leaves plant-1 after the 8th-week interval exhibited a downward trend with the increasing trend of gamma irradiation dose but recorded a least drop in plants raised from shoots irradiated with 10 Gy gamma irradiation dose with respect to the control. Apparently, the minimum delay in the number of days to floral bud appearance took under 10 Gy compared to control. The highest number of flower colour mutants was recorded under 10 Gy (light pink, orange-pink, white and yellow). Demountable mutation frequency based on flower colour was desirable in plants irradiated with the slightest dose of 10 Gy.
The Effect of Phosphate Binders in Patients With End Stage Kidney Disease Undergoing Hemodialysis: a Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Ge Jie , Mali Niroj , Fan WenXing
Published: November 2021

To compare the clinical efficacy of sevalamer carbonate and lanthanum carbonate in chronic hemodialysis patients. This prospective observational study included 80 patients randomly divided into two groups were followed from December 2019 to December 2020. After 12 months of maintenance hemodialysis treatment with sevalamer carbonate or lanthanum carbonate, serum phosphorus, serum calcium, alkaline phosphatase(ALP), parathyroid hormone (iPTH), low-density lipoprotein(LDL), hemoglobin(HGB), triglycerides(TG) and albumin(ALB) were evaluated. The adequacy of dialysis, the effective rate of treatment and the incidence of adverse reactions were compared as well. After treatment, In lanthanum carbonate group, serum phosphorus and iPTH decreased and albumin increased, the difference was significant(P < 0.05). In sevalamer carbonate group, serum phosphorus and LDL decreased and albumin increased after treatment, the difference was significant(P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the dialysis adequacy and total effective rate between the two groups (P>0.05). However, the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions in the sevalamer carbonate group was lower than in the lanthanum carbonate group and the difference was significant (P < 0.05). The two phosphate binders are safe and effective for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with ESKD undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Nevertheless, sevalamer carbonate seems to be superior with lowering the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions and improving lipid metabolism.
Can Collaborative Innovation Constrain Ecological Footprint? Empirical Evidence From Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, China
Authors: You Xiaojun , Li Qixiang , Monahan Kyle M. , Fan Fei , Ke Haiqian , Hong Na
Published: November 2021

Constraining ecological footprint (EF) has become an important policy priority to reach the carbon neutrality goal and deal with environmental issues, as it represents the socio-economic pressures on the environment. Current studies on the impact of collaborative innovation (CI) on EF is insufficient, although CI contributes to scientific productivity which benefits the technological progress in clean technology. In addition, seen from different perspectives, whether CI is effective in reducing EF has remain controversial. To further clarify this issue, this paper took Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) of China as a case, calculated EF between annual periods of 2008-2018 at the municipal level, measured CI from four dimensions and applied threshold regression models to compare the impact of CI on EF across different economic intervals. The findings showed that: the EF of GBA displayed an overall upward trend with prominent spatial heterogeneity during the study period. The impact of CI on EF presented a double-threshold effect when examined with different indicators. Among which, the flow of scientific personnel and capital boosted EF, which intensified with economic development; while collaboration in technology exerted significant inhibitory effects on EF, and the influence of inter-city knowledge collaboration was limited. This might inspire policymakers to adopt sustainable strategies depending on the type of CI and the economic status of the city to constrain the growth of EF, thus minimizing impacts of human activities on the environment.
Strategic management of the company's value based on the development of innovative and technological activities
Authors: Веселовский М.Я. , Погодина Т.В.
Published: November 2021

В статье выделены тенденции постиндустриального способа производства и определены особенности их финансирования. Произведена оценка динамической эффективности инновационной деятельности на основе расчета показателя инновационной добавленной стоимости и коэффициента отдачи затрат на инновации в различных отраслях промышленного производства. Выявлены составляющие корпоративной финансовой стратегии и определен механизм обеспечения взаимосвязи между финансовой стратегией и финансовой политикой компании. Сделаны выводы, что необходимо предпринять российским компаниям для обеспечения устойчивого развития и конкурентных преимуществ.

The article highlights the tendencies of the post-industrial mode of production and defines the features of their financing. The assessment of the dynamic efficiency of innovation activity is carried out on the basis ofcalculating the indicator of innovative value added and the rate of return on innovation costs in various industries. The components of the corporate financial strategy are identified and the mechanism for ensuring the relationship between the financial strategy and the financial policy of the company is determined. Conclusions are made of what needs to be done by Russian companies to ensure sustainable development and competitive advantages.