bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GeneMarkeR: A Database and User Interface for scRNA-seq Marker Genes
Authors: Paisley Brianna M. , Liu Yunlong
Published: October 2021

Single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) has enabled researchers to study cellular heterogeneity. Accurate cell type identification is crucial for scRNA-seq analysis to be valid and robust. Marker genes, genes specific for one or a few cell types, can improve cell type classification; however, their specificity varies across species, samples, and cell subtypes. Current marker gene databases lack standardization, cell hierarchy consideration, sample diversity, and/or the flexibility for updates as new data become available. Most of these databases are derived from a single statistical analysis despite many such analyses scattered in the literature to identify marker genes from scRNA-seq data and pure cell populations. An R Shiny web tool called GeneMarkeR was developed for researchers to retrieve marker genes demonstrating cell type specificity across species, methodology and sample types based on a novel algorithm. The web tool facilitates online submission and interfaces with MySQL to ensure updatability. Furthermore, the tool incorporates reactive programming to enable researchers to retrieve standardized public data supporting the marker genes. GeneMarkeR currently hosts over 261,000 rows of standardized marker gene results from 25 studies across 21,012 unique genomic entities and 99 unique cell types mapped to hierarchical ontologies.
Single-Cell Sequencing Reveals the Novel Role of Ezh2 in NK Cell Maturation and Function
Authors: Yu Minghang , Su Ziyang , Huang Xuefeng , Wang Xi
Published: October 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes primarily involved in innate immunity and exhibit important functional properties in antimicrobial and antitumoral responses. Our previous work indicated that the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (Ezh2) is a negative regulator of early NK cell differentiation and function through trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3). Here, we deleted Ezh2 from immature NK cells and downstream progeny to explore its role in NK cell maturation by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). We identified six distinct NK stages based on the transcriptional signature during NK cell maturation. Conditional deletion of Ezh2 in NK cells resulted in a maturation trajectory toward NK cell arrest in CD11b SP stage 5, which was clustered with genes related to the activating function of NK cells. Mechanistically, we speculated that Ezh2 plays a critical role in NK development by activating AP-1 family gene expression independent of PRC2 function. Our results implied a novel role for the Ezh2-AP-1-Klrg1 axis in altering the NK cell maturation trajectory and NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
Association of Subregional Quantitative Ultra-widefield Fluorescence Angiography Characteristics With the Occurrence of Diabetic Macular Edema and Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Sun Gongpeng , Wang Xiaoling , Jiang Jingwen , Yi Zuohuizi , Fu Mei , Yang Xueying , Zheng Hongmei , Chen Changzheng
Published: October 2021

Purpose: To explore the relationships of region-specific properties of ultra-widefield fluorescence angiography (UWFFA) images with two adverse outcomes, diabetic macular edema (DME) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and also the severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was performed to retrospectively analyze UWFFA images of patients with DR. All patients underwent UWFFA and optical coherence tomography examination. Leakage index and microaneurysm (MA) count were measured using Trainable Weka Segmentation, a machine learning algorithm, and ischemic index (ISI) was measured manually. The correlation between UWFFA parameters and severity of DR was analyzed, and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to estimate their diagnostic value for DME and PDR.

Results: A total of 108 eyes from 108 patients with DR (mean age of 56.04 ± 8.85 years) were analyzed. As the severity of DR increased, the ISI and leakage index of the panretina and all subregions increased. Panretinal MA count and leakage index were significantly higher in eyes with DME than those without DME (p = 0.044 and 0.001, respectively). Leakage index and ISI were significantly higher in eyes with PDR than those without PDR in both panretinal and subregion-specific measurements (all p < 0.05). Throughout the retina and specifically in the posterior area (PoA), the leakage index had a higher diagnostic value for DME than ISI or MA count (all p < 0.05). The diagnostic value of MA count for PDR was lower than that of ISI and leakage index (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The ISI, leakage index, and MA count in the PoA and panretina correlated with the severity of DR, especially the posterior parameter. The leakage index was more valuable than ISI and MA count in determining the occurrence of DME. ISI and leakage index were better predictors of PDR.
Ultrasound Assessment of Diaphragm Thickness and Thickening: Reference Values and Limits of Normality When in a Seated Position
Authors: Boussuges Alain , Rives Sarah , Finance Julie , Chaumet Guillaume , Vallée Nicolas , Risso Jean-Jacques , Brégeon Fabienne
Published: October 2021

Background: Diagnosing diaphragm dysfunction in the absence of complete paralysis remains difficult. The aim of the present study was to assess the normal values of the thickness and the inspiratory thickening of both hemidiaphragms as measured by ultrasonography in healthy volunteers while in a seated position.

Methods: Healthy volunteers with a normal pulmonary function test were recruited. The diaphragmatic thickness was measured on both sides at the zone of apposition of the diaphragm to the rib cage during quiet breathing at end-expiration, end-inspiration, and after maximal inspiration. The thickening ratio, the thickening fraction, and the thickness at end-inspiration divided by the thickness at deep breathing were determined. The mean values and the lower and upper limits of normal were determined for men and women.

Results: 200 healthy volunteers (100 men and 100 women) were included in the study. The statistical analysis revealed that women had a thinner hemidiaphragm than men on both sides and at the various breathing times studied. The lower limit of normality of the diaphragm thickness measured at end-expiration was estimated to be 1.3 mm in men and 1.1 mm in women, on both sides. The thickening fraction did not differ significantly between men and women. In men, it ranged from 60 to 260% on the left side and from 57 to 200% on the right side. In women, it ranged from 58 to 264% on the left side and from 60 to 229% on the right side. The lower limits of normality of the thickening fraction were determined to be 40 and 39% in men and 39 and 48% in women for the right and left hemidiaphragms, respectively. The upper limit for normal of the mean of both sides of the ratio thickness at end-inspiration divided by the thickness at deep breathing was determined to be 0.78 in women and 0.79 in men.

Conclusion: The normal values of thickness and the indexes of diaphragmatic function should help clinicians with detecting diaphragm atrophy and dysfunction.
Cytotopic (Cyto-) IL-15 as a New Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer: Recombinant Production in Escherichia coli and Purification
Authors: Esteves Ana M. , Papaevangelou Efthymia , Smolarek Dorota , Dasgupta Prokar , Galustian Christine
Published: October 2021

Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine previously suggested as a potential immunotherapy for cancer treatment. IL-15 can effectively reduce tumor growth in many preclinical tumor models including prostate cancer. This is due to its ability to expand and activate immune cells, such as CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells. To increase the potency of IL-15, we have engineered a protein variant that can be modified to localize and be retained in tissues where it is administered. However, the production of recombinant IL-15, the purity, and correct refolding of the final protein is not always ideal. In the current study, we aimed to optimize the methodology for production and purification of a modified recombinant human IL-15 and investigate the efficacy of the produced protein in the treatment of prostate tumors. Human IL-15 with its polypeptide sequence modified at the C-terminus to enable thiol conjugation with membrane localizing peptides, was produced in E. coli and purified using mild denaturing conditions (2M urea) from a washing step or from solubilization of inclusion bodies. The purified protein from the wash fraction was conjugated to a myristoylated peptide to form a membrane-localizing IL-15 (cyto-IL-15). The efficacy of cyto-IL-15 was investigated in subcutaneous TRAMP-C2 prostate tumors in mice and compared with cyto-IL-15 derived from protein purified from inclusion bodies (cyto-IL-15 Gen). When mild denaturing conditions were used for purification, the largest amount of IL-15 was collected from the wash fraction and a smaller amount from inclusion bodies. The protein from the wash fraction was mainly present as a monomer, whereas the one from inclusion bodies formed homodimers and higher complexes. After cytotopic modification, the purified IL-showed great efficacy in delaying prostate tumor growth (∼50%) and increased mice survival by ∼1.8-fold compared with vehicle. This study demonstrates an alternative, inexpensive and efficient method to produce and purify a modified version of IL-15 using mild denaturing conditions. This IL-15, when cytotopically modified, showed great efficacy as a monotherapy in prostate tumors in mice further highlighting the potential of IL-15 as a cancer immunotherapy.
Magnetic Resonance-Guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (MR-gLiTT) in Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery: State of the Art and Presentation of Giannina Gaslini Children's Hospital (Genoa, Italy) Series
Authors: Consales Alessandro , Cognolato Erica , Pacetti Mattia , Mancardi Maria Margherita , Tortora Domenico , Di Perna Giuseppe , Piatelli Gianluca , Nobili Lino
Published: October 2021

Magnetic resonance-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MR-gLiTT) is a novel minimally invasive treatment approach for drug-resistant focal epilepsy and brain tumors. Using thermal ablation induced by a laser diode implanted intracranially in a stereotactic manner, the technique is highly effective and safe, reducing the risk associated with more traditional open surgical approaches that could lead to increased neurological morbidity. Indications for MR-gLiTT in pediatric epilepsy surgery include hypothalamic hamartoma, tuberous sclerosis complex, cavernoma-related epilepsy, SEEG-guided seizure onset zone ablation, corpus callosotomy, periventricular nodular heterotopia, mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, and insular epilepsy. We review the available literature on the topic and present our series of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy treated by MR-gLiTT. Our experience, represented by six cases of hypothalamic hamartomas, one case of tuberous sclerosis, and one case of dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor, helps to confirm that MR-gLiTT is a highly safe and effective procedure for several epilepsy conditions in children.
Development and Validation of Nomogram to Preoperatively Predict Intraoperative Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage in Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Cai Xiangming , Zhu Junhao , Yang Jin , Tang Chao , Yuan Feng , Cong Zixiang , Ma Chiyuan
Published: October 2021

Background

Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are the most common tumor of the sellar region. PA resection is the preferred treatment for patients with clear indications for surgery. Intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (iCSF) leakage is a major complication of PA resection surgery. Risk factors for iCSF leakage have been studied previously, but a predictive nomogram has not yet been developed. We constructed a nomogram for preoperative prediction of iCSF leakage in endoscopic pituitary surgery.

Methods

A total of 232 patients who underwent endoscopic PA resection at the Department of Neurosurgery in Jinling Hospital between January of 2018 and October of 2020 were enrolled in this retrospective study. Patients treated by a board-certified neurosurgeon were randomly classified into a training cohort or a validation cohort 1. Patients treated by other qualified neurosurgeons were included in validation cohort 2. A range of demographic, clinical, radiological, and laboratory data were acquired from the medical records. The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) algorithm and uni- and multivariate logistic regression were utilized to analyze these features and develop a nomogram model. We used a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve to evaluate the predictive performance of the nomogram model.

Results

Variables were comparable between the training cohort and validation cohort 1. Tumor height and albumin were included in the final prediction model. The area under the curve (AUC) of the nomogram model was 0.733, 0.643, and 0.644 in training, validation 1, and validation 2 cohorts, respectively. The calibration curve showed satisfactory homogeneity between the predicted probability and actual observations. Nomogram performance was stable in the subgroup analysis.

Conclusions

Tumor height and albumin were the independent risk factors for iCSF leakage. The prediction model developed in this study is the first nomogram developed as a practical and effective tool to facilitate the preoperative prediction of iCSF leakage in endoscopic pituitary surgery, thus optimizing treatment decisions.
The Hydropathy Index of the HCDR3 Region of the B-Cell Receptor Identifies Two Subgroups of IGHV-Mutated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients With Distinct Outcome
Authors: Rodríguez-Caballero Arancha , Fuentes Herrero Blanca , Oliva Ariza Guillermo , Criado Ignacio , Alcoceba Miguel , Prieto Carlos , Pérez Caro María , García-Montero Andrés C. , González Díaz Marcos , Forconi Francesco , Sarmento-Ribeiro Ana Bela , Almeida Julia , Orfao Alberto
Published: October 2021

The HCDR3 sequences of the B-cell receptor (BCR) undergo constraints in length, amino acid use, and charge during maturation of B-cell precursors and after antigen encounter, leading to BCR and antibodies with high affinity to specific antigens. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia consists of an expansion of B-cells with a mixed immature and “antigen-experienced” phenotype, with either a mutated (M-CLL) or unmutated (U-CLL) tumor BCR, associated with distinct patient outcomes. Here, we investigated the hydropathy index of the BCR of 138 CLL patients and its association with the IGHV mutational status and patient outcome. Overall, two clearly distinct subgroups of M-CLL patients emerged, based on a neutral (mean hydropathy index of -0.1) vs. negatively charged BCR (mean hydropathy index of -1.1) with molecular features closer to those of B-cell precursors and peripheral/mature B-cells, respectively. Despite that M-CLL with neutral HCDR3 did not show traits associated with a mature B-cell repertoire, important differences in IGHV gene usage of tumor cells and patient outcome were observed in this subgroup of patients once compared to both U-CLL and M-CLL with negatively charged HCDR3 sequences. Compared to M-CLL with negatively charged HCDR3 sequences, M-CLL with neutral HCDR3 sequences showed predominance of men, more advanced stages of the disease, and a greater frequency of genetic alterations—e.g., del(17p)—together with a higher rate of disease progression and shorter time to therapy (TTT), independently of other prognostic factors. Our data suggest that the hydropathy index of the HCDR3 sequences of CLL cells allows the identification of a subgroup of M-CLL with intermediate prognostic features between U-CLL and the more favorable subgroup of M-CLL with a negatively charged BCR.
Therapeutic Targeting of Cancer: Epigenetic Homeostasis
Authors: Yu Xiaoyuan , Li Menglu , Guo Chunyan , Wu Yuesheng , Zhao Li , Shi Qinying , Song Jianbo , Song Bin
Published: October 2021

A large number of studies have revealed that epigenetics plays an important role in cancer development. However, the currently-developed epigenetic drugs cannot achieve a stable curative effect. Thus, it may be necessary to redefine the role of epigenetics in cancer development. It has been shown that embryonic development and tumor development share significant similarities in terms of biological behavior and molecular expression patterns, and epigenetics may be the link between them. Cell differentiation is likely a manifestation of epigenetic homeostasis at the cellular level. In this article, we introduced the importance of epigenetic homeostasis in cancer development and analyzed the shortcomings of current epigenetic treatment regimens. Understanding the dynamic process of epigenetic homeostasis in organ development can help us characterize cancer according to its differentiation stages, explore new targets for cancer treatment, and improve the clinical prognosis of patients with cancer.
The Zygotic Division Regulator ZAR1 Plays a Negative Role in Defense Against Botrytis cinerea in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Xiao Jiahui , Song Yuxiao , Li You , Liu Jun , Cai Huiren , Wang Hong-Bin , Liu Bing
Published: October 2021

A phosphorylation/dephosphorylation cycle at tyrosine 428 of CHITIN ELICITOR RECEPTOR KINASE 1 (CERK1) plays an essential role in chitin triggered immunity in Arabidopsis thaliana. In this study, we used a differential peptide pull-down (PPD) assay to identify factors that could participate downstream of this cycle. We identified ZYGOTIC ARREST 1 (ZAR1) and showed that it interacts with CERK1 specifically when the tyrosine 428 (Y428) residue of CERK1 is dephosphorylated. ZAR1 was originally characterized as an integrator for calmodulin and G-protein signals to regulate zygotic division in Arabidopsis. Our current results established that ZAR1 also negatively contributed to defense against the fungus Botrytis cinerea and played a redundant role with its homolog ZAR2 in this process. The zar1-3 zar2-1 double mutant exhibited stronger resistance to B. cinerea compared with zar1-3 single mutant, zar2-1 single mutant, and wild-type plants. Moreover, the inducible expression of numerous defense response genes upon B. cinerea infection was increased in the zar1-3zar2-1 double mutant, consistent with a repressive role for ZAR proteins in the defense response. Therefore, our findings provided insight into the function of ZAR1 in multiple defenses and developmental regulation pathways.
Identity Selection and the Social Construction of Birthdays
Authors: Pelham Brett W. , DeHart Tracy , Shimizu Mitsuru , Hardin Curtis D. , Han H. Anna , Hippel William von
Published: October 2021

We argue that rather than being a wholly random event, birthdays are sometimes selected by parents. We further argue that such effects have changed over time and are the result of important psychological processes. Long ago, U.S. American parents greatly overclaimed holidays as their children's birthdays. These effects were larger for more important holidays, and they grew smaller as births moved to hospitals and became officially documented. These effects were exaggerated for ethnic groups that deeply valued specific holidays. Parents also overclaimed well-liked calendar days and avoided disliked calendar days as their children's birthdays. However, after birthday selection effects virtually disappeared in the 1950s and 1960s, they reappeared after the emergence of labor induction and planned cesarean birth. For example, there are many fewer modern U.S. births than would be expected on Christmas Day. In addition, modern parents appear to use birth medicalization to avoid undesirable birthdays (Friday the 13th). We argue that basking in reflect glory, ethnic identity processes, and superstitions such as magical thinking all play a role in birthday selection effects. Discussion focuses on the power of social identity in day-to-day judgment and decision-making.
How Do People Cope During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Stay Well? A Salutogenic Longitudinal Study in Israel
Authors: Mana Adi , Catz Or , Mana Yossi , Neuman Moran , Benheim Sharon , Sagy Shifra
Published: October 2021

Employing the salutogenic approach, this longitudinal study explored the effects of coping with the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel, as it evolved from an acute to a chronic stress situation, during the first year. We examined the role of individual [sense of coherence (SOC)], social (perceived social support), and national [sense of national coherence (SONC)] coping resources, as well as situational and demographic factors, in predicting mental health and anxiety. Data was collected in five phases between March 2020 and February 2021 via a repeated panel sample and included 198 Jewish Israelis (52% males) age 18–64 (M = 43.5). The results confirmed the expected pattern of moving from acute to chronic stressful situation: levels of general anxiety were higher in the first phase of the pandemic outbreak as compared to the other phases. Levels of social and national coping resources significantly decreased over time. However, as expected, the salutogenic resource of the individual sense of coherence remained stable and was also found as the main predictor of both anxiety and mental health in the 5 phases of the study. Beyond the explanatory factor of SOC, mental health was better explained by the social and national coping resources, while anxiety was explained by situational factors (level of financial risk and gender). The discussion delineates the longitudinal effects of individual, social, and national coping resources on mental health and anxiety during the dynamic process of the long period of 1 year of the pandemic, evolving from acute to chronic phases of the complicated health, economic, social, and political crisis
Family and Developmental History of Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Importance of the Clinical Diagnostic Interview for Diagnosis in Adolescents. An Explorative Study
Authors: Waltereit Johanna , Czieschnek Charlotte , Albertowski Katja , Roessner Veit , Waltereit Robert
Published: October 2021

Background: Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be made early in childhood, but also later in adolescence or adulthood. In the latter cases, concerns about an individual's behavior typically lead to consultation of a mental health professional (MHP). As part of the initial clinical examination by the MHP, a clinical diagnostic interview is performed, in order to obtain the patient's history, and may lead to the hypothesis of ASD. We were here interested to study family and developmental history as key parts of the patient's history. The aim of the study was to investigate empirical differences between adolescents with ASD and adolescent control persons in family and developmental history.

Method: Clinical diagnostic interview items addressing family and developmental history were adopted from their regular use at several university hospitals and in leading textbooks. Parents of male adolescents with normal intelligence and an ASD diagnosis (n = 67) and parents of male adolescents without psychiatric diagnosis (n = 51) between the age of 12 and 17 years were investigated. Data were operationalized into three categories: 0 = normal behavior, 1 = minor pathological behavior, and 2 = major pathological behavior. Differences were analyzed by multiple t-test of two-way ANOVA.

Results: Adolescents with ASD expressed a profile of items significantly differing from control persons. Comparison of significant items with the empirical ASD literature indicated robust accordance.

Conclusions: Our findings support the importance and feasibility of the clinical diagnostic interview of family and developmental history for initiation of the diagnostic process of ASD in adolescents.
Converting to Intubation During Non-intubated Thoracic Surgery: Incidence, Indication, Technique, and Prevention
Authors: Chiang Xu-Heng , Lin Mong-Wei
Published: October 2021

Traditionally, intubated general anesthesia with one-lung ventilation is standard in thoracoscopic surgery. However, in recent decades, non-intubated thoracoscopic surgery (NITS) has become an alternative method to minimize the adverse effects of intubated general anesthesia. Non-intubated procedures result in fewer adverse events than tracheal intubation and general anesthesia, such as intubation-related airway injury, ventilation-induced lung injury, prolonged hospital stay, and postoperative nausea and vomiting. Despite these benefits, surgeons must consider the possibility of converting to intubation during NITS as the conversion rate is between 2 and 11%, varying between regions and learning time. The conversion rate is also affected by race, body size, the learning curve, and the surgical team's preferred methods. There are surgical (e.g., significant respiratory movements, uncontrolled bleeding, hindered surgical fields, large tumor sizes, adhesions) and anesthetic (e.g., hypoxemia, hypercapnia, airway spasms) reasons for converting to intubation. When a conversion is deemed necessary by the surgical team, the members should be well-prepared and act rapidly. Anesthesiologists should also feel comfortable intubating patients in the lateral decubitus position with or without bronchoscopic guidance. Patient selection is the key factor for avoiding conversion into an intubated surgery. Patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists grade 2 or less, a body mass index <25, and less surgical complexity may be good candidates for NITS. Careful monitoring, adequate anesthesia depth, an experienced surgical team, and sufficient preparation can also prevent conversion. Conversion from a non-intubated into intubated thoracic surgery is unwanted but not inevitable. Therefore, NITS can be successful when performed on select patients by a well-prepared and experienced surgical team and is worthy of recommendation owing to its non-invasiveness.
Where to from Here? Continuing Challenges in Jewish–Catholic Conversation
Authors: Neuhaus David M.
Published: October 2021

The decades of fruitful dialogue between Jews and Catholics, also undertaken by many mainstream Christian communities after the Second World War, has transformed a “teaching of contempt” with regard to Jews and Judaism into a “teaching of respect”. However, the work is far from done, and a number of challenges continue to provoke Jewish and Catholic theologians and interreligious activists to continue their efforts. In this article, five challenges for Catholics will be enunciated in order to clarify the ongoing agenda for Jewish–Catholic conversation today. These challenges are: (1) reading the Scriptures together; (2) salvation for the Jews; (3) people, land, and state; (4) writing history together; and (5) broadening the conversation.
The Effects of the Spatial Extent on Modelling Giant Panda Distributions Using Ecological Niche Models
Authors: Huang Ziye , Huang Anmin , Dawson Terence P. , Cong Li
Published: October 2021

Climate change and biodiversity loss have become increasingly prominent in recent years. To evaluate these two issues, prediction models have been developed on the basis of ecological-niche (or climate-envelope) models. However, the spatial scale and extent of the underlying environmental data are known to affect results. To verify whether the difference in the modelled spatial extent will affect model results, this study uses the MaxEnt model to predict the suitability range of giant pandas in the Min Mountain System (MMS) area through modelling performed (1) at a nationwide scale and (2) at a restricted MMS extent. The results show that, firstly, both models performed well in terms of accuracy. Secondly, extending the modelling extent does help improve the modelling results when the distribution data is incomplete. Thirdly, when environmental information is insufficient, the qualitative analysis should be combined with quantitative analysis to ensure the accuracy and practicality of the research. Finally, when predicting a suitability distribution of giant pandas, the modelling results under different spatial extents can provide management agencies at the various administrative levels with more targeted giant panda protective measures.
Cognitive and Executive Functions of Young Men regarding Sport Activity and Personality Traits
Authors: Pačesová Petra
Published: October 2021

Sport activity can be a moderator of change in the level of cognitive and executive functions. This research sample consisted of 71 men aged 22.66 ± 1.91 years. This group was split into two subgroups: nonathletes (n = 26) and athletes (n = 45). The athletes included open skill sport athletes (n = 21) and closed skill sport athletes (n = 24). We used a standardized S-test to detect the level of cognitive functions, a standardized EPQ-R questionnaire to find out the degree of neuroticism and a standardized IVE questionnaire to measure the level of impulsivity. For data processing, we used the Kruskal–Wallis test following the Mann–Whitney test. To calculate the effect of size differences we used the coefficients η2 and r. Our research showed a higher level of cognitive function of athletes compared to nonathletes. More detailed data analysis showed that open skill sport disciplines are influential. There is also a negative relationship between the level of cognitive function and the degree of impulsivity and neuroticism. It seems that sport activity, specifically open skill sport disciplines, has the potential to increase the cognitive functions of young adult men. Personality traits—neuroticism and impulsivity—have a negative relationship with the level of cognitive functions of young men.
Influence of Resin Cements and Ceramic types on the Color Stability and Translucence of Laminate Veneers/ Influência dos Cimentos de Resina e Tipos Cerâmicos na Estabilidade da Cor e Translucidez das Facetas Laminadas
Authors: Silami Francisca Daniele Jardilino , Sbardelotto Cristian , Torrieri Rafaella Tonani- , Almeida Rossana Pereira de , Arruda Carolina Noronha Ferraz de , De-Souza Fernanda de Carvalho Panzeri Pires-
Published: October 2021

Objective: This study evaluated the color stability and translucence of resin cements in the fixation of ceramic veneers submitted to aging protocols. Material and Methods: Buccal faces of bovine incisors were planed up to dentin. Eighty ceramic veneers (1 mm) were prepared using two pressed ceramics (IPS e-maxPress and IPS e-maxZirpress, IvoclarVivadent). Before the initial color and translucence readouts (Vita EasyShade, VITA), the veneers were fixed with light (Variolink II, Ivoclar/Vivadent) or dual cured (Relyx U200, 3M ESPE) cements. The samples were submitted (n=10) to thermal mechanical cycling (1.200.000 cycles, 1,3Hz, 5°C/37°C/55°C); and no aging protocol (control). New color and translucence readouts were performed. The cement thickness was quantified by a double coordinate stereomicroscope (Nikon Measurescope) as a control of the study. Results: Data (3-way ANOVA, Tukey, p0,05) showed difference (p0.05) in the color change for both ceramics cemented with U200 with no aging protocol. In the other groups, there was no significant difference (p0.05). There was no difference for translucence regardless ceramics, cements, or aging protocol. Thermal mechanical cycling was not significant for optical changes of the ceramics tested. Conclusions: It was concluded that the color stability and translucence of ceramics with thickness of 1mm were not influenced by the cement when submitted to thermal mechanical cycling.
COOPERATION BETWEEN THE STATE AND MUNICIPALITIES IN THE TRANSFERRED EXECUTION OF STATE ADMINISTRATION
Authors: Alman Tomáš
Published: October 2021

The present paper is focused on the cooperation of the state and municipalities in the context of the transferred execution of state administration. The paper has two parts; in the first part we draw our attention to the current legislation in the selected area, the second part of the paper highlights selected problems and shortcomings. The paper aims to identify selected aspects of the issue, evaluate the situation, take a critical position, and offer proposals and solutions by analysing selected information sources and application practice of local self-government.
THE ROLE OF THE SELF-GOVERNING REGIONS IN CORONAVIRUS CRISIS IN SLOVAKIA
Authors: Mikuš Dalibor
Published: October 2021

The coronavirus crisis is a major social issue addressed in many countries over the last two years. Everyday life has been significantly influenced by the measures taken in an effort to eliminate the effects of this virus. The representatives of the state were not prepared for such a situation, which was reflected in the differently chosen strategies in the member states of the European Union. If we take a closer look at the situation in Slovakia, the outbreak of the corona crisis was associated with the parliamentary elections and change of government at the end of February 2020. Political aspects significantly influenced the initial phase of the fight against Covid-19. Self-governing regions were active in the individual stages and became important actors in the whole process. The article focuses on the evaluation of the role of two selected regional units - Bratislava and Košice self-governing regions within the coronavirus crisis. We primarily focus on the taken measures at the beginning of the whole process, when regional governments reacted sooner than the state itself. In addition, we analyse how self-governing regions have been involved in the vaccination process. In this context, we evaluate the current state and number of vaccinated people in both municipalities.
Cigarette Smoking and Its Financial Burden among Iranian Households: Evidence from Household Income and Expenditures Survey
Authors: Homaie Rad Enayatollah , Hajizadeh Mohammad , Rezaei Satar , Reihanian Anita
Published: October 2021

Background: The financial burden of cigarette smoking on households’ budget is not well documented in Iran. We aimed to identify the determinants of cigarette consumption and its financial burden among households in Iran. Study design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: A total of 39,864 Iranian’s households from 31 provinces were included in the analysis. Data on sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics (age, sex, household size, education level, employment status, income and wealth index), living area, number of cigarettes smoked and cigarette expenditures for households were extracted from the 2016 Household Income and Expenditures Survey (HIES). Tobit model was used to identify the determinants of cigarette smoking frequency and expenditures among Iranian households. Results: The average number of cigarettes smoked and cigarettes expenditures by all household members was 85.25 cigarettes and US$ 2.64 per month. Living in urban areas, wealth index of households, household income, household size and low educational attainment of household members were positively associated with frequency and expenditures of cigarette smoking. Results also indicated increasing patterns in the number of cigarettes smoked and cigarettes expenditures from east to west of the country. East Azerbaijan, Hamadan, Markazi and Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari provinces had higher cigarette smoking frequency and expenditures in Iran. Conclusions: Tobacco control interventions in Iran should focus more on households living in urban areas and low-educated households. As the frequency of cigarette smoking was higher in the western region of Iran, comprehensive tobacco control policies should be adopted in western provinces.
Association between Musculoskeletal Pain and Bone Turnover Markers in Long-Term Pb-Exposed Workers
Authors: Kalahasthi Ravibabu , Bagepally Bhavani Shankara , Barman Tapu
Published: October 2021

Background: On chronic exposure, Lead (Pb) deposits in the skeletal system, replaces calcium ions, and alters the normal physiological processes, which in turn, lead to stunting, delayed fracture healing, and high resorption of collagen molecules. The present study aimed to assess the association of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort with bone turnover markers (BTMs) among long-term Pb-exposed workers. Study design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: The study recruited 176 male Pb-exposed workers and 80 control subjects who were matched for age, gender, and socio-economic status. Blood lead levels (BLLs), bone growth markers, such as serum osteocalcin (OC), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP), and bone resorption markers: serum pyridinoline (Pry), deoxypyridinoline (DPry), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b(TRACP-5b), and hydroxyproline in urine (HyP-U) of participants were investigated. Pain and discomfort in the musculoskeletal system were assessed using Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Results: Pb-exposure was significantly associated with musculoskeletal discomfort of the lower back (P<0.001), upper back (P<0.001), and ankle/foot (P=0.011). Among bone formation markers, serum OC was significantly lower in musculoskeletal discomfort of elbows (P=0.033) and ankle/foot (P=0.042). Among bone resorption markers, serum DPry was significantly lower in musculoskeletal discomfort of the neck (P=0.049) and shoulders (P=0.023). HyP-U was significantly higher in musculoskeletal discomfort of shoulders (P=0.035) and lower back (P=0.036). Conclusion: As evidenced by the obtained results, Pb-exposure was associated with musculoskeletal discomfort of the lower back, upper back, and ankle/foot. Lower bone formation (serum OC) marker was noted with musculoskeletal discomfort of elbows and ankle/foot. Furthermore, bone resorption markers were associated with musculoskeletal discomfort of the neck, shoulders, and lower back. The findings of the present study suggested that long-term Pb-exposure and BTMs were associated with musculoskeletal discomfort.
Trend Analysis and Predictions of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Ethiopia
Authors: Terefe Abiyot Negash , Zewudie Samuel Getachew
Published: October 2021

Background: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is affecting both lives of millions of people and the global economy of the world day by day. This study aimed to determine the trend of COVID-19 and its predictions in Ethiopia. Study Design: This study was conducted based on a time series design. Methods: The required data were collected from the Ethiopian COVID-19 monitoring platform beginning from the onset of the disease in the country until March 28, 2021. Furthermore, the auto-regressive integrated moving average models were used on daily-based time series. The Poisson and Negative Binomial regression were also employed to notice the effects of months on the transmission and disease-related human deaths. Results: The mean daily infection and death of COVID-19 in Ethiopia were 533.47±466.62 and 7.45±6.72, respectively. The peaks of infection and deaths in this country were in March, 2021, and August, 2020. In addition, the trend of daily new deaths (P=0.000) and infection (P=0.000) was significantly increasing. It is expected that around 10 million (8.6%) and 138,084.64 (0.12%) Ethiopians will be infected and die, respectively. Conclusions: The disease transmission and deaths vary from day to day and month to month. The highest peaks of COVID-19 infection and death were in March 2021 and August 2020. For the next end of August 2021, the COVID-19 daily new infection, new death, total case, and total death are expected to be increased. If this epidemic disease is not controlled, Ethiopia will face a severe shortage of hospitals, and the outbreak even becomes worse.
Multimarker approach for assessing efficiency of cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with sinus rhythm
Authors: Kuznetsov V. A. , Enina T. N. , Soldatova A. M. , Petelina T. I. , Dyachkov S. M. , Salamova L. A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose. To design a mathematical model, that can predict a positive response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and sinus rhythm, according to complex analysis of neurohumoral and immune activation biomarkers, fibrosis, renal dysfunction, echocardiography.Methods. Parameters of echocardiography, plasma levels of NT-proBNP, interleukins-1β, 6, 10, tumor necrosis factor α, С-reactive protein (СRP), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (ММР-9), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase 1 and 4, cystatin С (CYSTATIN) were studied in 40 CHF patients with sinus rhythm (65% coronary artery disease patients, 75% males, mean age 54.8±10.6 years old) during the period of maximum decrease of left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) (mean duration 27.5 [11.1; 46.3] months). Responders (decrease in LVESV ≥15%) and non-responders (decrease in LVESV <15%) were identified.Results. The number of responders was 26 (65%). The initial set of variables included: age, left ventricular ejection fraction (EF), pulmonary artery systolic pressure, right ventricle size and NT-proBNP, СRP, ММР-9, CYSTATIN. According to logistic regression analysis, a prediction model of positive CRT response was created. The specificity of the model was 92.9%, sensitivity - 83.3%, AUC=0.952 (р˂0.001).Conclusion. The proposed model, based on the assessment of left ventricle EF and circulating biomarkers of inflammation, fibrosis, and renal function, strongly suggests a higher possibility of response to CRT.
Assessment of the frequency and possible risk factors for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in the early postoperative period after transapical implantation of the MedLab-CT valve
Authors: Popylkova O. V. , Durmanov S. S. , Voevodin A. B. , Bazylev V. V.
Published: October 2021

Aim. To study the incidence and possible risk factors for atrial fibrillation (AF) in the early postoperative period after transapical implantation of the first Russian aortic valve (TAP-AVI).Methods. The study included 118 patients after successful TAP-AVI. Patients with open aortic valve replacement due to dislocation of the prosthesis were excluded, as well as subjects with permanent AF and who died in the early postoperative period. The mean age of the patients was 71.1±4.9 years, body mass index 31.1±5.9 kg/m2 , males - 39.8%, hypertension was present in 93.2%, diabetes mellitus (DM) - in 27.9%, paroxysmal AF - in 12.7%, coronary artery disease (CAD) was in 56.7%, 8.4% were smokers. The median follow-up time corresponded to the hospital stay - 9.5 days. To identify cardiac arrhythmias, regular daily ECG recording in 12 leads was initiated from the first day after TAP-AVI. In the presence of palpitations, 24-hour ECG monitoring was performed. Indicators such as age, male gender, DM, history of AF, interatrial block before surgery, CAD, and echocardiographic parameters were studied as possible predictors of AF development in the early postoperative period after TAP-AVI. There were no significant differences in the baseline parameters in patients with AF paroxysms and sinus rhythm.Results. In the early postoperative period, AF was encountered in 46 (39%) of patients. New-onset AF occurred in 38 (32.2%) patients. No cerebrovascular event occurred in patients with post-surgery AF. The only statistically significant risk factor for AF in the postoperative period was CAD (OR 5.756; 95% CI 1.009-8.132; p = 0.048).Conclusion. In the early postoperative period, the only significant predictor of AF was the presence of documented CAD.
Cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation in a patient with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation after atrial septal defect closure using the “Amplatzer” occluder
Authors: Taymasova I. A. , Yashkov M. V. , Kadirova M. V. , Artyukhina E. A.
Published: October 2021

A case report of cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation in a patient after atrial septal defect closure is presented.
FAUNA AND BIOTOPIC DISTRIBUTION OF WEEVILS (COLEOPTERA: CURCULIONOIDEA) OF THE TALOVSKAYA STEPPE SITE OF THE ORENBURG STATE NATURE RESERVE
Authors: Dedyukhin S.V.
Published: October 2021

Based on research results 2018-2020 the species composition was established and the analysis of the fauna of weevils (Curculionoidea) of the Talovskaya steppe site of the Orenburg natural reserve was carried out. The research area is located in the very south-west of the Orenburg region near the border with Kazakhstan, in the subzone of the southern steppes of the East of the Russian Plain. 199 species of weevils from 4 families were identified (27 % of the fauna of the Orenburg region). Of these, 9 species are first reported for the fauna of the Orenburg Province. The characteristic features of the weevil fauna of the Talovskaya steppe are: a high proportion of Central Palaearctic species (35 %) (with an insignificant participation of Western Palaearctic forms); a sharp predominance of species of the subboreal complex (steppe and desert-steppe) (58 %) (with a very small number of forest species) and a noticeable proportion of species of the halophilic complex. The data presented in the article allow us to consider the fauna of the Talovskaya steppe as a typical southern steppe fauna. It is characterized by a fairly high species richness and the presence of a number of rare species. This is confirmed by the importance of the protected area for the preservation of the peculiar natural complexes of the southwestern outskirts of Obshchy Syrt.
APPLICATION OF MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS FOR SMALL RIVER BASINS OF THE BAIKAL RIFT ZONE BASINS
Authors: Bezgodova O.V.
Published: October 2021

The article discusses the use of morphometric analysis to study the features of formation and development of small river basins in the western branch of the Baikal rift zone basins (by example of the Ihe-Uhgun river basin). The author has prepared a hydrologically correct digital elevation model based on satellite data ALOS Digital Surface Model (DSM). A comprehensive assessment of the earth's surface was carried out, including for the purposes of geomorphological and hydrological analysis, as well as an automated calculation and mapping of standard morphometric indicators based on DEM data. The work is based on general physiographic research methods, the method of morphometric analysis of the relief using GIS, the method of geoinformation mapping. Statistical data of morphometric and hydrological indicators were collected using SAGA GIS, patterns of their distribution over the basin area were revealed, which, as a result, made it possible to draw conclusions about the factors and patterns of the river network development and determine the set of presented exogenous processes of relief formation in the Ihe-Uhgun river basin territory. The main factors in the small river basins development are: high base levels, complex tectonic structure of the territory, steep slopes and southern orientation of the slope exposure, etc. It was revealed that the geometry of the basin relief determines the direction and volume of surface runoff, as well as the intensity of exogenous geomorphological processes.
FEATURES OF DISTRIBUTION OF CASES OF HEAVY RAINS IN THE FLAT AND MOUNTAINOUS PARTS OF THE REPUBLIC OF BASHKORTOSTAN
Authors: Kamalova R.G. , Kurbanova L.A. , Nigmatullina R.R.
Published: October 2021

The article presents the results of a study of cases of heavy rains in the Republic of Bashkortostan. For a complete analysis, the authors also included cases of precipitation with a total of 15 mm or more for a period of no more than 12 hours. For the flat part of the Republic of Bashkortostan, urgent observation data were used at the Ufa-Dema weather station, for the mountainous part - at the Tukan weather station. Cases of heavy rains were detected from May to November in the period 1966-2018. The main regularities of the distribution of cases of heavy rains according to the criteria of the amount, timing, months of manifestation are shown. The statistical characteristics of cases for the periods 1966-1994 and 1990-2018 are compared. It was revealed that in the mountainous part of the republic, compared with the plain, there are a third more cases of heavy rains. Also, the orographic features of the Southern Urals caused the formation of 38 cases of dangerous hydrometeorological phenomena, while no cases were registered at the weather station of the Bashkir Urals under consideration.